5 Reasons Why Your Vehicle Heater May Not Be Working

November 21, 2022February 6, 2023 in Auto RepairLeave a Commentby bestedge

Why Your Vehicle Heater May Not Be Working

When winter arrives in North Carolina, staying warm becomes a big priority. You definitely don’t want to get stuck driving a car without heat. Here are some of the common issues that can cause a vehicle heater to stop working.

Low Coolant/Antifreeze Level
Coolant does more than just help prevent overheating. If there’s not enough coolant circulating through the engine, this will prevent the vehicle heater from blowing out warm air. The easiest solution to the problem is to top off your coolant. However, a severely low level of antifreeze typically indicates a leak.

The best approach is to have your car inspected by a certified mechanic. They will be able to track down the source of your leak. Getting the problem repaired now will give you one less thing to worry about.

Thermostat Not Working
If your car’s temperature gauge begins to drop toward the cold mark when cruising along the open road, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a bad thermostat. While you can temporarily drive a vehicle with a stuck-open thermostat during the summer, this isn’t the case when Old Man Winter arrives. The performance of your vehicle heater will be poor, thus making daily commutes a lot less comfortable.

Fortunately, new thermostats are relatively inexpensive. However, the ease of installation can vary from one model to the next. To gain access to the thermostat on some cars, several engine parts may need to be removed.

Electrical Problems
In some instances, the reason the vehicle heater isn’t functioning properly is due to electrical issues. You may notice that no air is being blown from the vents. A technician will ultimately need to inspect the unit.

The culprit could simply be a blown fuse or loose wire. These issues typically aren’t a big challenge to fix. On the other hand, you could also be dealing with a burned-out blower motor.

Heater Core Problems
Modern cars are designed with a heater core, which resembles a small radiator. It’s responsible for dispersing the heat released by the coolant. When the heater core becomes clogged or develops a leak, don’t expect the vehicle heater to work well. If your car begins to use up coolant quickly or has a sweet-smelling odor in the cabin, there’s a good chance the heater core is to blame.

Replacing a heater core is a big repair. Luckily, a blocked heater core passage can often be flushed out. Once the built-up crud is removed, the vehicle heater may begin to function normally.

Faulty HVAC Controls
Broken HVAC controls can prevent your vehicle heater from working. The various buttons and knobs are prone to wearing out over time. This is especially for ones made of plastic.

Many of today’s newer HVAC systems feature a touchscreen display. While these modern units are intuitive, they can be quite expensive to repair when problems occur. A faulty touchscreen may be fixed by simply resetting your car’s onboard computer. This can be done by disconnecting the vehicle battery for about 10 minutes.

How to Avoid a Dead Vehicle Battery This Summer

September 9, 2022February 6, 2023 in Auto RepairLeave a Commentby bestedge

Avoid a Dead Vehicle Battery

The dog days of summer can put a lot of extra stress on a car’s battery. If you don’t take the necessary steps to protect this critical component, you’ll be far more likely to experience a breakdown. Below we discuss how you can avoid a dead vehicle battery this summer. The good thing is these tips can be applied to anytime of the year!

Have Your Battery Tested
Before the summer kicks into full gear in Asheville, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle battery tested and inspected by a professional mechanic. You’ll be able to travel with an extra sense of security. If the battery is on the verge of reaching its expiration date, the best approach is to have it replaced ahead of time.

Avoid the temptation to buy the cheapest battery on the shelf. Lower-priced “economy” batteries tend to be far less durable. Some may begin to weaken after only a year of use. A premium battery is well worth the extra money.

Keep the Connections Clean and Tight
It is important for your connections to remain tight. Once the cables become loose, it’s only a matter of time before you experience starting issues. Fortunately, most vehicle battery cables can be easily tightened using basic hand tools.

Corrosion tends to be an even bigger problem. When there is a significant amount of corrosion on a vehicle battery, less current will flow through the terminals. This ultimately results in decreased cranking power. Oftentimes, built-up acid can be neutralized using a baking soda paste. Simply mix together one cup of distilled water and one tablespoon of baking soda. After dipping an old toothbrush into the solution, scrub down the terminals.

Keep the Battery Cool
Excessive heat can cause a vehicle battery to fail much sooner than expected. Whenever possible, try to park under the shade. Develop a habit of looking for nearby trees. If you do not have a garage at home, consider investing in a car shed.

Always keep your battery wrapped in a heat shield, which helps block out radiant engine bay heat. Most replacement heat shields cost less than $30.

Jump-Start Your Car the Right Way
It’s not uncommon for a person to accidentally leave their headlights on, thus leading to a dead vehicle battery. They will likely need to jump-start the car. Unfortunately, many inexperienced drivers do it the wrong way. Not only can the battery be damaged, but other electronic components can be ruined as well. Keep in mind that a vehicle’s computer system can be especially expensive to replace.

Before even attempting to jump-start a car, first make sure all electrical systems are turned off. It’s even more important to connect the jumper cables to the correct terminals. Furthermore, the cables should never come in contact with any metal surfaces. Experts also recommend allowing the dead battery to charge for a few minutes before attempting to start.

Consider Investing in a Trickle Charger
If you have an automobile that you only drive on special occasions, consider investing in a trickle charger. It is designed to slowly charge the car’s battery while in storage. No longer will you have to worry about the vehicle battery being drained when preparing to take a summer road trip.

If you need assistance with your dead vehicle battery or any other car maintanice, come see us at Cox Auto Service in Asheville. Contact us today at 828-254-8661 to set up a full-service maintenance appointment. We offer convenient same-day drop-in service as well.

Top Five Issues That Tend to Plague Mercedes-Benz Vehicles

June 2, 2022February 6, 2023 in Auto RepairLeave a Commentby bestedge

Top Five Issues That Tend to Plague Mercedes-Benz Vehicles

When discussing the top luxury car brands, Mercedes-Benz vehicle is always in the conversation. Its vehicles have a reputation offering an amazing blend performance and comfort. While these German-engineered automobiles are built to last, owners must put a big priority on maintenance. Some repairs will ultimately need to be made. Here’s a look at the top five issues that tend to plague Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

1. Worn Engine and Transmission Mounts
Engine and transmission mounts are more important than you think. These components help ensure a smooth driving experience by balancing energy absorption. When the mounts start to go bad, you will begin to notice increased engine noise and more vibrations while on the road.

Although you can drive a vehicle with worn mounts, it’s best to have them replaced as soon as possible. Over time, the excessive shaking can cause certain parts to become damaged. After a mechanic makes the necessary repairs, your car will be far more pleasant to drive.

2. Bad Crankshaft Sensor
When their vehicle won’t start, many drivers immediately fear a dead battery. However, there are several more things that can cause this problem. Mercedes-Benz vehicle crankshaft sensors are especially prone to failing. Other symptoms of a worn crank position sensor include poor throttle response, stalling, and decreased fuel economy.

To find accurately pinpoint the problem, an auto repair technician will need to perform a diagnostic test. If your vehicle is deemed to have a bad crankshaft sensor, the only option is to have this electronic device replaced. Fortunately, crank position sensors are relatively inexpensive.

3. Engine Misfire
It’s hard to ignore a misfiring engine. Not only will your Mercedes-Benz vehicle begin to run roughly, but it will also struggle to get up to speed. Furthermore, the check engine light is likely to turn on.

In many instances, this issue stems from a set of worn-out spark plugs. In order for the engine to maintain the proper air-fuel mixture, the spark plugs must be firing correctly at all times. While it’s generally recommended to have these parts replaced every 30,000 miles, many Mercedes-Benz owners neglect doing so.

4. Bad Control Arm Bushings
If your Mercedes-Benz vehicle is approaching 100,000 miles, its control arm bushings may go bad. Found in the front suspension, these rubber components are designed to limit the amount of vibration created between the vehicle’s frame and the wheels. Worn control arm bushings can cause quite a few problems, including a bumpy ride and accelerated tire wear. Your car will also be more difficult to steer.

It’s a good idea to have all the control arm bushings replaced at the same time. When one fails, the other is soon to follow.

5. Not Going Into Gear
Don’t panic if your transmission suddenly doesn’t go into gear or experiences shifting issues. Mercedes-Benz automatic gearboxes are typically quite durable. However, the transmission’s valve body and 13-pin connector are not the best.

The good news is that these parts are not a big challenge to replace. Before buying a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz vehicle, be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection. An experienced mechanic in Asheville will quickly recognize the red flags of a faulty transmission.

Contact Cox Auto Service

Cox Auto Service is located in Asheville, NC, and covers the gamut on mechanical service for automobiles. Our highly qualified mechanics work on anything from minor repairs such as belts, oil changes, maintenance work to major repairs like engine and transmission work. We take pride in the auto repairs and services we provide. Rely on us to treat our customers’ vehicles as if they were our own.

Tips to Help Prevent Your Engine from Overheating

February 9, 2022February 6, 2023 in Auto Repair, BlogLeave a Commentby bestedge

Here’s how to help prevent your engine from overheating

It’s important for your engine to stay running at the optimum temperature. If it gets too hot, major damage can be done. Let’s look at how to prevent your engine from overheating.

Regularly Check the Coolant Level
Develop a habit of checking your vehicle’s coolant level every month. If there’s not enough coolant circulating throughout the engine, the chances of you experiencing overheating increase dramatically. This is especially true when sitting in traffic on a hot day.

You’re probably dealing with a slow leak. By pressure testing the cooling system, a mechanic can track down the source of your problem. Remember, even a bad radiator cap can cause coolant to evaporate.

Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected
To be on the safe side, be sure to have your coolant hoses inspected every year. These rubber parts naturally wear out over time. When a hose begins to look weathered or feels soft, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

Your vehicle’s serpentine belt also needs to be periodically checked. This belt delivers power to quite a few major components, including the water pump. If an old serpentine belt suddenly snaps while you’re on the road, overheating becomes a serious possibility.

Watch Your Temperature Gauge
Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of modern vehicles feature a temperature gauge. If you notice the temperature gauge rising above normal levels, the best approach is to pull over immediately. Opening the hood will help the overheating to clear out quickly.

You’ll likely need to call a tow truck. Do not attempt to drive your car any further until repairs are made. If your temperature gauge enters the red zone, avoid taking any chances. From the head gasket to the pistons, a number of different parts can be destroyed.

Maintain the Proper Oil Level
Motor oil does more than just lubricate the engine. It also helps prevent overheating. When there’s too little oil in the engine, temperatures will gradually start to rise.

Ideally, you should check your oil level every month. However, check it more frequently if you have a high-mileage vehicle. Some engines begin to consume oil at a faster rate as they age.

Park in the Shade When Possible
When summer kicks into full gear in Asheville, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to surpass 95 degrees. To help cool down your vehicle’s engine, try to park in the shade whenever possible. Always be on the lookout for trees and tall buildings, which can block the sun. While you may have to park further away from your destination, a little extra walking never hurts.

Turn On the Heat During Emergencies
If you happen to be stuck in a traffic jam and notice your temperature gauge rising beyond normal levels, turn the heater on full blast. This will help prevent overheating by pulling hot air from the engine. Although the extra heat blowing inside the cabin may cause you to sweat, the pros outweigh the cons.

If your vehicle’s engine fails or needs a complete overhaul, you need ASE-certified experience. A mechanic able to complete the work effectively, correctly and at the lowest possible cost. Residents of Asheville, NC rely on the experts at Cox Auto Service near Patton Avenue, just as they have for 50 years. You can trust Cox Auto Service for your domestic or foreign vehicle engine replacement.

Contact Cox Auto Service

Battle of the Chevrolet Sport Cars: Camaro vs Corvette

Battle of 2 Chevrolet Sports Cars: Camaro vs Corvette

September 6, 2021February 6, 2023 in Chevrolet Repair, Auto Repair, BlogLeave a Commentby chris

Chevrolet gives Asheville drivers two iconic sports cars to choose from. While both the Camaro and the Corvette promise to deliver a lot of driving fun, one may suit your lifestyle better than the other. Let’s take a closer look at how these models compare.

Chevrolet Camaro vs Corvette – The Cost

If you’re on a budget, the Chevrolet Camaro is very likely your best option. Chevrolet lists the Camaro with a starting MSRP of only $25,000. Even the V8-powered Camaro LT1 is priced at a more than reasonable price, $34,000.

Drivers who want a new Chevrolet Corvette must reach significantly deeper into their pockets and or bank accounts. Prices for the base Corvette start at roughly $60,000. However, adding options can cause the car’s price to quickly approach upwards of $100,000.

Performance Comparison Between Chevy Camaro & Corvette

All versions of the Corvette now come standard with the same powertrain. Under the hood rests a potent V8 engine, which develops up to 495 horsepower. Sending power to the wheels is a quick-shifting, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Road tests show the Corvette clocks a 0-60 mph time of around 2.9 seconds. In contrast to the Camaro, the new Corvette is not offered with a traditional manual transmission.

The Chevy Camaro gives you far more powertrains to choose from. Thrill seekers will want one of the available V8 engines. Chevrolet rates the Camaro’s naturally aspirated V8 to crank out 455 horsepower. This ensures a quick 0-60 time of 4.0 seconds. Another step up the performance ladder is the Camaro supercharged V8 engine, which pushes out a staggering 650 horsepower. Drivers will be able to hit 60 mph in as quickly as 3.6 seconds.

Handling & Ride

Most experts agree that the Chevrolet Camaro handles remarkably well for an American muscle car. It inspires drivers with a great deal of confidence on twisty roads. With that said, the Corvette is an even more precise driving machine. A mid-engine layout and lower stance enable Corvette to compete with many of today’s exotic sports cars. Fortunately, both of these models offer a smooth highway ride.

Which Chevy Vehicle Has Better Fuel Economy?

The Chevrolet Corvette’s fuel economy isn’t bad for such a high-performance ride. You can anticipate getting up to an EPA-estimated 15 MPG city/27 MPG highway. Meanwhile, a standard turbo four-cylinder engine enables the Camaro to return 22 MPG city/31 MPG highway. Expect V6-powered models to be just a tad less economical. Upgrading to the Camaro’s V8 engine lowers efficiency to 16 MPG city/27 MPG highway.

Interior Room

Unlike the Corvette, the Camaro has a backseat. This is good news for drivers who need to accommodate their small children. Taller drivers will also appreciate the Camaro’s extra 1.1 inches of front-seat legroom. Extra cargo space gives the Camaro yet another advantage in terms of everyday practicality. While the Camaro has a trunk volume of 12.6 cubic feet, there’s only 7.3 cubic feet of storage space in the Corvette’s trunk.

Safety

Both of these Chevrolet coupes offer a safe driving experience. Among the available safety features include a color head-up display, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Parents will appreciate Chevy’s standard Teen Driver system. Aside from allowing a speed limit to be set, this feature can also monitor for driving mistakes. And parents can even set it up so that a report with drive details comes straight to their mobile phone.

Keep Your Mercedes Benz Running Strong

May 6, 2021February 6, 2023 in Auto Repair, Blogby chris

Keep Your Mercedes-Benz Running Strong

Mercedes-Benz is known for producing high-end luxury vehicles. While most models are quite durable, a lack of routine servicing can lead to reliability issues. Here’s how to keep your Mercedes-Benz performing at its best.

Change the Oil Regularly

If you want your Mercedes-Benz to last, always change your oil at the recommended intervals. Neglecting to do so can have some serious consequences. Accelerating engine wear is the biggest problem that occurs if one ignores maintenance intervals from the manufacturer. The latest models, built in the last 10 years, require an oil change every 10,000 miles.

The overwhelming majority of Mercedes-Benz vehicles need premium synthetic oil. In an effort to cut costs, some Asheville drivers opt to use conventional motor oil. Unfortunately, this mistake often ends up causing them more money in the long run. Conventional motor oil tends to break down far sooner, which means it must be changed more frequently.

Routine Tune-Ups

It’s typically recommended for Mercedes-Benz owners to have the spark plugs changed every 30,000 miles. When the spark plugs begin to deteriorate, you can expect to encounter a few noticeable performance issues. Rough idling and sluggish acceleration are two of the most common symptoms. Along with the loss of performance comes decreased fuel economy.

If you neglect to get a tune-up, even more problems can arise. Unburned fuel can escape into the catalytic converter, which ultimately leads to this part needing to be replaced. Keep in mind that the average cost of a new Mercedes-Benz catalytic converter is more than $1,000.

Have the Drive Belts Routinely Inspected

Drive belts are among the most critical components of a Mercedes-Benz. They are responsible for transferring power to essential parts, such as the water pump and alternator. If a worn drive belt suddenly snaps, you will likely be stranded on the side of the road. Your only option will be to call for a tow.

Most belts are rated to last for around 40,000. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to have your belts and pulleys inspected at every oil change. Large cracks and stretched rubber indicate the belt is on its last leg. Meanwhile, bad pulleys often begin to become noisy.

Maintain a Good Battery Connection

Contrary to common belief, there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free battery. In order for your Mercedes-Benz to run smoothly, the battery needs to remain in good condition. Mechanics recommend cleaning the battery posts and terminals at least twice a year. This helps prevent corrosion from building up. Remember, heavy corrosion can cause the same symptoms as a dead battery.

Modern automotive batteries have an expiration date. As your battery ages, it’s more likely to fail. Aside from making your vehicle harder to start, a weak battery can also cause intermittent electrical problems. Don’t wait to get a replacement.

Prevent Engine Overheating

It’s important to keep your Mercedes-Benz running at the optimum temperature. Engine overheating can be especially damaging. As soon as your temperature gauge starts to rise above normal levels, pull over immediately. This can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Engine overheating can be caused by a wide range of different things. While you could be dealing with a failed radiator fan or bad water pump, the root of the problem is more likely a low level of coolant. There’s a leak somewhere in the system.

Top up the coolant until you can have the problem professionally repaired. Never refill the coolant reservoir with regular tap water. This can cause major rust issues. The best mixture is 50/50 concentrated antifreeze with distilled water.

Change the Air Filter

An air filter is a simple component. Its sole purpose to prevent dust and debris from getting inside the engine. When the air filter becomes dirty, your Mercedes-Benz won’t feel nearly as powerful when accelerating.

A good rule of thumb is to install a new air filter every 30,000 miles. However, models equipped with a turbocharger may need to have this service performed more often.

Taking Your Jeep Off-Roading

April 6, 2021February 6, 2023 in Auto Repair, Transmission Issuesby bestedge

Jeep is known for producing some of the most rugged vehicles in the world. Popular models, like the Wrangler and the Grand Cherokee, come ready to tackle rough terrain. However, conquering an off-road trail isn’t as easy as you may think. Here are some tips for taking your Jeep on an off-road adventure for the first time.

Watch Your Speed

When venturing off the beaten path, some Jeep owners make the mistake of going too fast. This is especially true for amateurs. Speed can be your enemy. While you may need to slightly increase your speed when encountering hills, the best approach is to maintain and slow and steady pace. You’ll have a far greater sense of control.

If you’re speeding along an off-road course, expect the vehicle’s suspension to bottom out at some point. The jolt could be powerful enough to send you flying out of your seat. The chances of you damaging something also increase dramatically. Sharp rocks and tree trumps can thrash the undercarriage, thus forcing you to speed more money on repairs.

Lower Your Tire Pressure

On the street, it’s important to keep your tires inflated to the factory-recommended pressure. This helps ensure better handling and optimum fuel economy. However, drivers often need to lower the tire pressure when traveling off-road. Even normal pressure can cause the tires to bounce like a basketball. You definitely won’t enjoy the rougher ride.

Aside from giving you a smoother ride, a lower pressure also helps lessen impacts. Expect your Jeep to feel noticeably more stable. Another benefit of lowering the tire pressure is enhanced traction on muddy trails. Because the tires will be touching the ground at a lower pressure, they can better grip slippery surfaces.

Don’t Go Alone

If you don’t have a lot of experience off-roading, it’s probably not a good idea for you to go alone. Nothing is scarier than being stuck in the middle of nowhere without a companion. There could be unknown dangers lurking in the woods. A buddy will help you to safely explore the rough backcountry. Although Jeep 4X4 vehicles are extremely capable machines, don’t take any unnecessary chances.

To enjoy greater peace of mind, try to find another off-road enthusiast in Asheville who has their own 4X4. They’ll be able to show you the ropes. You may also need them to pull you out of a ditch.

Have Your Vehicle Serviced and Inspected

Before you take your Jeep on an epic adventure, be sure to have it serviced by a professional mechanic. You’ll be less likely to experience a breakdown. It’s definitely in your best interest to have the transmission inspected. When attempting to maneuver out of a mudhole, transmission temperatures can rise quickly. Its cooling system must be in prime working condition.

Your Jeep may also need a wheel alignment. It’s easy for suspension parts to get bent when driving over tough landscapes. The vehicle may then begin to veer to one side on the street, thus making it more difficult to control.

Prepare for the Worst-Case Scenarios

You never know what can happen on an off-road excursion. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to prepare for the worst-case scenarios. To be on the safe side, be sure to bring along a first-aid kit. This will enable you to quickly disinfect and patch up wounds.

It also never hurts to pack a little extra food and bottled water. In the event that you become stranded for longer than expected, you’ll appreciate having iodine pills on hand. These pills can purify water, which allows you to safely consume natural freshwater sources.

Bad Driving Could Lead to A Mechanic Shop Visit

March 7, 2021February 6, 2023 in Auto Repair, Auto Repair Shopsby bestedge

Even the most reliable vehicle will eventually need repair. Normal wear and tear is something you can’t prevent. However, some car problems are often caused by bad driving behaviors. Here are five habits that can cause your vehicle to end up at the mechanic shop.

Driving On “E”

Some people have become accustomed to driving on a near-empty tank. Unfortunately, this bad habit can damage your vehicle in a number of ways. If you continue running on a low level of fuel, you’ll soon be scheduling a visit to the mechanic shop.

When there’s little gas in the tank, your vehicle’s fuel pump is far more likely to overheat. You’ll eventually begin to hear a loud whining sound, which means this component has already started to wear out. A failed fuel pump will ultimately force you to call for a tow. To prevent being stranded on the side of the road, never allow the fuel level to drop below a quarter tank.

Using Regular Gas In a Vehicle That Requires Premium

Some of today’s vehicles are built to run on premium gasoline. If you use a lower octane fuel in a model that requires premium gas, the consequences can be severe. For starters, the engine won’t be able to develop maximum power. You’ll likely notice a big difference in performance, especially when accelerating.

Some vehicles have a “premium gasoline only” warning. You should never use regular unleaded gas in these vehicles. Doing so could cause the engine to detonate. This sudden, intense rise in cylinder pressure can result in major damage. The mechanic shop may need to completely rebuild or replace the engine. In the long run, spending the extra money on premium gasoline can prevent a lot of unnecessary stress.

Ignoring A Check Engine Light

If your check engine light turns on, don’t wait to take the vehicle to a mechanic shop. While the root of the problem may be something simple, the best approach is to not take any chances. Getting your car checked out now could save you from an even bigger auto repair bill get to a mechanic shop.

There are more than 100 problems that will trigger a check engine light. Symptoms, like rough idling and sluggish acceleration, often stem from bad spark plugs. You’ll need to get a tune-up as soon as possible. Worn spark plugs can cause the vehicle’s catalytic converter to fail, which could be expensive to replace.

Allowing Your Vehicle To Idle for Long Periods

Contrary to popular belief, you’re not doing your vehicle any favors by allowing it to warm up for a long time. Aside from wasting fuel, this bad habit actually puts unnecessary stress on the engine. Even on cold days, it’s recommended to not let the engine idle for more than a couple of minutes. Gently driving the vehicle for the first few miles will able the engine to reach its normal operating temperature quicker.

Engines that idle for long periods in traffic often suffer from heavy carbon buildup. These sticky deposits can cause the engine to wear out a lot sooner than expected. This is a key reason why city vehicles often don’t last as long. If you do a lot of stop-an-go driving, your mechanic shop may need to periodically clean the engine to remove carbon.

Towing More Weight Than Your Vehicle Can Handle

A lot of drivers in Asheville tend to use their vehicles for towing. However, it’s important to research the model’s maximum tow rating beforehand. Attempting to pull too heavy of a load can strain the engine. Transmission overheating is also far more likely to occur and a visit to the mechanic shop.

Remember, a vehicle’s suspension is only designed to handle a certain amount of weight. When your load is too hefty, handling will be especially poor. Parts, like shock absorbers and wheel bearings, will also need to be replaced more often.

Major Engine Trouble: Five Problems That Can Cause a Bad Piston

February 6, 2021August 8, 2022 in Blog, Auto Repair, Get a Tune-Upby bestedge

Major Engine Trouble: Five Problems That Can Cause a Bad Piston

Pistons are among the most important parts of an engine. If they have issues, you will defiantly have engine trouble. In extreme cases, this could be justification for an engine replacement. They hold the responsibility of converting fuel into energy. When a piston goes bad, expect to experience a big drop in performance. In some instances, you could lose all engine power. Furthermore, here are five problems that can lead to a engine trouble and a damaged piston.

1. Broken Timing Belt

If you are having engine trouble, keep reading. Also, if your vehicle engine’s is designed with a timing belt, be sure to have it replaced at the recommended interval. Over time, this rubber component gradually begins to weaken. While some timing belts need to be replaced every 60,000 miles, others are rated to last for more than 100,000 miles.

You definitely don’t want a timing belt to suddenly snap while you’re driving. On an interference engine, this could cause the pistons and valves to collide. Catastrophic engine damage will be the probable outcome.

2. Engine Detonation

It’s important to fill your gas tank with the correct type of fuel. Typically, high-performance cars and luxury vehicles are tuned to use premium gasoline. Repeatedly using low octane fuel in these automobiles can cause engine detonation. Worn-out spark plugs and carbon buildup from excessive idling also make engine denotation more likely to occur.

When engine donation occurs, an excessive amount of internal heat is produced, which is engine trouble. Temperatures can become hot enough to melt an aluminum piston. To help counteract the effects of using a lower octane, automakers engineer vehicles with components called knock sensors. They signal the car’s computer to reduce ignition timing, which ultimately protects the engine. The bad news is that knock sensors can fail.

3. Low Oil Level

Routine maintenance is the ultimate key to keeping your vehicle running strong. Mechanics stress the importance off regularly checking the oil level. It’s a simple step that only takes a minute of your time. Once some vehicles surpass the 50,000-mile mark, they tend to consume motor oil at faster rate.

A piston is a moving part, which must be properly lubricated at all times. As the piston slides up, oil is sprayed on its undersides. Also, when the oil level becomes too low, friction becomes a serious issue. Poor lubrication could result in a stuck piston. However, the damage caused by metal-to-metal contact is even more detrimental.

4. Engine Overheating

Engine overheating is one of the most destructive car and engine troubles. To prevent severe engine damage, it’s important to pull your car over as soon as possible. Within seconds, temperatures can rise to dangerous levels.

As mentioned earlier, virtually all modern pistons are made from aluminum alloy. While aluminum is light and resistant to corrosion, it can warp when exposed to extreme heat. Also, if you allow the engine too get to hot, the pistons can bend and deform. Additionally, this means the engine won’t be able to maintain the proper compression, thus leading to a major power loss. The vehicle will not be drivable in some instances.

5. A Hydrolocked Engine

A hydrolocked engine is a very serious problem. It’s a condition where an excessive amount of water enters the engine at once. Also, this naturally prevents the pistons from fully compressing. As you know, certain streets in Asheville are prone to flooding after an intense rainstorm. Unfortunately, some hard-headed motorists choose to drive their car through the high water.

If you attempt to drive a vehicle with a hydrolocked engine, the piston rod can suddenly break and you could have some serious engine trouble. Lastly, your only option will be to either spend the money on the necessary repairs or buy another engine.

Dodge Challenger Maintenance Tips

October 7, 2020February 6, 2023 in Auto Repair, Blogby bestedge

If you own a Dodge Challenger, be sure to have it serviced on a regular basis. A little extra attention will help keep your muscle car running like a champ. Here are a few key maintenance tips to keep in mind.

What To Do Every Month

A few maintenance checks should be done every month. It’s especially important to check your Dodge Challenger’s tire pressure using a digital gauge. Not only does low pressure hurt gas mileage, but it also shortens the life of your tires. If you happen to notice abnormal wear on the tires, a wheel alignment is likely needed.

You should also develop a habit of inspecting the condition of your car’s battery. Contrary to popular belief, there’s no such thing as a maintenance-free battery. It’s definitely not uncommon for corrosion to collect on the terminals, which can ultimately cause hard starts. Fortunately, this oxidation can be easily dusted off using a battery cleaning brush. While you’re under the hood, take the time to tighten the battery cables as well.

Don’t forget to check your fluid levels every month. While a low coolant can cause overheating, a low level of motor oil can lead to premature engine damage. Also, keep an eye out for any leaks.

What To Maintain Every Six Months

Dodge recommends an oil change every 8,000 miles. This typically means you’ll need to bring your Challenger in for service every six months. Failing to regularly change the oil can cause a lot of trouble in the long run. Slug will eventually start to develop inside the engine, thus leading to costly damage.

Dodge makes it easy for owners by equipping the Challenger with a convenient oil life monitor. By keeping track of your mileage and driving conditions, this feature can determine exactly when an oil change is needed. After your oil change light turns oil, be sure to get an oil change within the next 500 miles.

While your vehicle is at the shop getting an oil change, it’s also a good idea to have the tires rotated. The goal of this service is to ensure even wear on all four tires. You stand to extend the life of your tires by thousands of miles.

Once a Year Maintenance Requirements

The way you drive your Dodge Challenger has a direct impact on how long the brake pads will last. Spending a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic will naturally accelerate wear. While your braking system is designed with wear indicators, it’s still advisable to have the pads professionally inspected at least once a year.

Dodge advises Challenger owners to check the condition of their car’s engine air filter every 12 months. Dust and pollen gradually start to build up, which hinder the engine’s ability to breathe freely. A dirty air filter usually results in a noticeable decrease in performance. Sluggish acceleration is a tell-tale sign the engine air filter needs to be replaced.

What to Check Every Two Years

Dodge equips the Challenger with long-life spark plugs. They are rated to last for up to 100,000 miles. However, certain factors can cause a spark plug’s electrode to wear out sooner than expected. When one or more of the spark plugs begin to misfire, performance and fuel economy typically take a big hit. This is why the spark plugs should be inspected every two years. The extra peace of mind is well worth it.

Unlike most modern muscle cars, the V6-powered Challenger offers an AWD system as an option. This feature enables Asheville Challenger owners to maintain excellent traction during wintry conditions. To keep the AWD system’s gears turning smoothly, it’s important to change the transfer case oil every other year.