Driving uphill reveals weaknesses that are hidden on level ground. Gravity works against you, forcing the engine to work harder. Accelerating now tests every component and if one part isn’t functioning like it should, your vehicle may suddenly struggle, hesitate, or even stall when going uphill. If you car seems like it’s losing power while … Read more
It’s a good idea to check your oil about every time you fill up the fuel tank. But what do you do with that information? What does dirty oil on the dipstick look like, and when is it time for an oil change? You can’t always tell how old your oil is just by looking … Read more
That squealing under the hood when you start your car in the morning is no harmless noise. It’s an audible clue that your serpentine belt needs attention. This vital belt powers vital accessories like the alternator, AC compressor, and power steering pump by linking them to the crankshaft’s rotation. When this drive belt starts glazing, … Read more
Do you have a noisy, rattly engine? Perhaps you hear a rhythmic ticking noise coming from under the hood. No matter the type of unusual sound, one’s thoughts automatically begin to turn toward impending engine failure and the headache such an issue might cause. Sometimes ticking is normal and expected. Sometimes a tick needs to … Read more
All-wheel drive (AWD) systems send power to all four wheels. AWD is found on many modern vehicles, especially in areas that tend to experience poor weather conditions in the winter. If there is a problem with the AWD system, you will often see a message that says “Check AWD System” or something similar. Not sure … Read more
As vehicles age, individual components within an engine wear down a little bit every time it’s being driven. When fluid is routed through hoses and lines, various types of gaskets are responsible for keeping things leak free. Unfortunately, these gaskets deteriorate and can eventually fail. One of the more common reasons for an engine oil … Read more
Thermostats are one of those auto parts that is fairly inexpensive and straightforward to replace yourself. Although the part is inexpensive, the labor rate at a mechanic can drive up the cost of replacement. It’s always a good idea to search online for a how-to guide for your exact vehicle. If you can get your … Read more
A failed connecting rod is one of the most catastrophic forms of engine failure. This failure is commonly referred to as a “thrown rod” or “throwing a rod”. When a connecting rod fails, there is a very good chance the piston or connecting rod could smash right through the engine block at very high speed, … Read more
Fuel pumps pull gasoline out of the fuel tank and pump it into the engine. A good fuel pump maintains a bit of pressure so there is always an adequate supply of fuel, no matter how much you press the throttle. Over time, fuel pumps can go bad for a number of reasons. Did you … Read more
Are you having issues starting or running your vehicle? You may have low fuel pressure. Combustion engines need a precise amount of air and fuel to run properly. When your vehicle has low fuel pressure, your engine probably won’t have enough fuel to run right. Symptoms of Low Fuel Pressure Here are some common problems … Read more