The right auto shop can make all the difference. Ask about certifications, and talk to your state Attorney General’s or consumer protection office.
Look for signs of poor workmanship or a bad deal, such as the smell of burned toast (electrical short), or rotten eggs (fuel system problem). Talk to a manager and try to resolve the issue. Contact Auto Repair In Antioch CA now!
The Check Engine Light is one of the most dreaded vehicle warning lights because it can indicate just about anything from a loose gas cap to a failing catalytic converter. Whether it’s glowing solid yellow or blinking orange, however, it’s important to get the issue addressed as soon as possible. Many issues that trigger this light can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and higher emissions, costing you money at the pump and polluting our environment.
Since 1996, all vehicles have been required to have an onboard diagnostics (OBD) system that monitors engine performance and identifies problem areas. While these systems can be complex, you can learn how to use an inexpensive OBD scanner to troubleshoot at home or in your garage and make simple fixes that can keep your car running great. These tools can also be helpful in determining how to address more complex problems.
Oil Change
The engine in your vehicle is responsible for getting you from point A to point B daily, and it does this based on the continuous lubrication provided by clean motor oil. However, this vital component breaks down over time due to heat, pressure, and the accumulation of harmful particles.
During an oil change the mechanic will drain the old oil from the engine, replace the filter, and add new oil. The amount of oil added depends on the type of vehicle/engine, but generally up to 5 quarts is used.
Different car models require specific types/weights of motor oil to maximize longevity and avoid voiding the manufacturer warranty. This information is usually available on the oil cap or in your owner’s manual. Changing your oil regularly also protects against premature chassis wear. Your driving style and location can influence how frequently you need to get an oil change.
Tires
Tires support the weight of your car, transmit traction and braking forces to the road surface, and absorb road shock. It is important to inspect your tires for uneven wear and damage on a regular basis, as well as check the air pressure.
A reputable repair shop will remove the tire from the wheel assembly and thoroughly evaluate it for damage to its inner liner. If the puncture injury is less than 1/4 inch, the hole is reamed with a special tool to enlarge it to about the size of a pencil.
A one or two piece repair is installed through the injury channel using a cold chemical vulcanizing process. The resulting repair becomes part of the tire and helps to prevent further punctures. The tire is then remounted to the rim, inflated and balanced for return to service.
Brakes
The brakes are the system that slows and stops the rotation of your car wheels. Brake pads physically press against the rotor to create friction and reduce your vehicle speed. Brake lines are the conduits through which brake fluid travels to and from the master cylinder, brake calipers, and brake pads. Brake lines should be inspected regularly for leaks or damage.
The first step is to bleed your brakes. Ask a friend to pump the brakes while you watch and listen for the resistance to return to normal pressure. This indicates there are air bubbles in the system that need to be bled out.
Cooling System
The engine in your car generates a lot of heat while running. Too much heat damages components inside and outside the engine such as seals, sensors, and belts. Overheating can even melt the head gasket.
Coolant carries heat from the engine to the radiator, where it dissipates the heat. The cooling system consists of passages in the engine block and heads, a water pump and drive belt to circulate the coolant, a thermostat that controls the temperature of the coolant, a radiator, and cooling fans.
Symptoms that the Cooling System needs repair include coolant level dropping frequently, a faulty thermostat, and engine overheating. Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all cooling system problems. Schedule a maintenance inspection at McCullough NAPA to prevent future problems. It’s cheaper than replacing a damaged engine. Our ASE-certified technicians will catch issues before they become costly repairs.
Electrical System
Electrical systems are responsible for powering the lights, appliances and electronics in our homes and businesses. They’re complex networks that need consistent maintenance to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
Wiring problems are the most common type of electrical repair. These issues can be caused by rodents chewing on wires, corrosion and even looseness over time. To fix these issues, it’s essential to have your wiring professionally checked out and replaced if necessary.
When a light or electric device in your house quits working, check your circuit breakers and fuses first. Replace any blown fuses with ones of the same current-carrying capacity. Also, make sure any light fixture, switch or receptacle in your home is labeled with an Underwriters Laboratory approval. This indicates it meets safety standards.
Transmission
The transmission is one of the most complicated parts of your vehicle. It takes power from the engine and delivers it to your car’s wheels to help it drive at a set speed.
If your mechanic finds a problem with your transmission, it could mean you need a repair or replacement. Fortunately, most minor transmission problems can be repaired by adding more fluid and possibly fixing a leak or addressing a diagnostic code that indicates internal damage.
A rebuilt transmission (also called a refurbished or reconditioned transmission) is usually the least expensive option. This involves a complete disassembly of the transmission with all parts cleaned and inspected for wear. It can be done in a local shop. A remanufactured transmission, on the other hand, is often done in a factory setting by a team of specialists.
Heating System
The most common heating system problem is a non-working thermostat. You can try to fix this yourself by replacing the thermocouple, but if you don’t feel comfortable handling gas appliances, it’s best to call a professional. Alternatively, you can replace your heating unit completely for a new, efficient, and warrantied model.
Luis Perez is the Install Manager at Bob’s Repair, bringing more than a decade of experience to his trade, demonstrating a deep commitment to excellence. He is a family man and loves traveling with his children.
Fuel System
The car fuel system is essential for your vehicle’s “get up and go.” This system combines several components to carry fuel from the gas tank to the engine, providing the right amount of combustible to run the engine and power the wheels.
The journey begins in the fuel tank, which stores fuel securely and is designed to withstand environmental conditions. From there, the fuel is drawn by a fuel pump through fuel lines to the fuel injectors which then meter the correct amount of fuel into the combustion chamber for your engine to use.
Issues with this crucial system can range from air leaks to faulty pumps and injectors, but prompt repair can save you costly repairs in the long run. This article explores some common problems and their symptoms, so you can identify issues with your car’s fuel system more easily.
Electrical Troubleshooting
The electrical system in a car is vital to powering the engine and operating accessories. However, like any system, it can develop problems over time. Identifying and troubleshooting these problems saves time, enhances safety, and protects your investment.
Electrical troubles often have a simple solution, such as replacing a light bulb or resetting a breaker. But sometimes the problem is more complicated. In these cases, it’s best to consult a professional electrician for a more thorough diagnosis.
If your breakers are tripping frequently, this could be an indication of too much demand on the circuit or a potential short circuit. You can check for this by using a multimeter to test the outlet or light switch. If the outlet or switch is hot, it indicates a wiring problem that needs to be repaired. Then you can replace the fuse.