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TOP 7 WARNING SIGNS DRIVERS OVERLOOK
Nov 01, 2022
A vehicle is programmed with a computer to communicate in various ways that a fault is detected. Each fault has an error code that displays an icon in correspondence to the issue. For instance, often times if a vehicle dictates low tire pressure, it may communicate just that or post a tire icon on the dashboard to relay the message. An engine issue is typically conveyed with an engine icon to make known one or more parts tied to the engine need healing. On top of these listed messages are others linked to the drivers' senses, such as sight, sound, smell, and touch. Here are the most overlooked warning signs that can result in major repairs if neglected for too long.
OVERHEATING
Coolant is necessary for all vehicle types, whether diesel or gas powered, compact car or truck. The coolant keeps the engine from overheating, protecting its vital parts. Coolant should be regularly monitored and flushed to allow the radiator to perform its function. Old coolant can destroy the metal parts that make up the engine due to acidity. Auto experts recommend that a vehicle's acid levels read no less than 10 to avoid major and expensive repairs to the radiator or the engine and use strips to run test. During the coolant flush process, technicians will use a cleaning mechanism to flush out the coolant to break it down. This procedure flushes not only the old coolant but also any rust, dirt, or sludge that may have accumulated from the water hoses and the engine over time.
SQUEAKY BRAKES
The brakes in every vehicle have the most critical role in protecting the driver, their passengers, and others on the road. Brake issues usually occur due to a lack of maintenance by regularly checking the brake pads, discs, and lines. Brakes often convey there is needed attention through squeaking and squealing during operation. Monitoring the life of these components can protect the brakes from more expensive repairs like warped or worn brake rotors. Decreased brake performance develops due to normal wear and tear, which is why these parts require maintenance. Failure to do so and the brakes could fail completely
WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD
As mentioned before, every vehicle is programmed with a computer with communication capabilities to relay messages that will be in the best interest of the vehicle parts. Check engine lights can be tied to several different factors within the vehicle. Often, a vehicle will issue a check engine light notification when something as simple as a gas cap is loose. Whatever the case, the warning lights protect the driver and the parts. These warning lights allow the operator to be proactive, take action, and avoid unwanted and potentially expensive repairs.
TRANSMISSION SLIPPING
The transmission is one of a vehicle's most essential parts. The transmission is in place to ensure that the engine turns and delivers a balanced power rate depending on the driver's desire. That balance is determined by if the driver wishes to accelerate or drive at slower speeds. Transmissions require fluid to conduct performance and are needed to be flushed in intervals. These flushes exist because, just like other components of a vehicle, normal wear and tear deplete parts and fluids of their capabilities. Frequently, a driver may hear strange noises from the transmission or restrictions when shifting gears to convey that a flush is necessary.
SHAKING, VIBRATIONS, BURNING SMELLS AND SMOKE
With the use of the driver's senses, many issues can be determined and possibly fixed before significant repairs are mandatory. Vibrations or shaking are one of many apparent indicators of an issue. Any shaking or vibrating in the steering wheel or the seat may be due to suspension decline, bad tires, or an electrical issue. The smell of burning oil or visibly identifying smoke from under the hood could be due to a blown gasket, a damaged cylinder, or worse, a cracked engine block. Cracks in the engine parts can cause coolant to burn a thick white smoke. There is also the possibility that small amounts of motor oil or other fluids like power steering fluid, brake fluid, or transmission liquid have reached the engine by mistake.
FLUID UNDER THE VEHICLE
Fluid leaks under a vehicle are due to broken or worn parts. Water leakage is typically the most harmless instance because a vehicle's air conditioner must release the excess moisture developed in the cabin and usually does so underneath the vehicle. Engine oil leakage is typically produced by a crankshaft seal, failing engine gasket, or an oil pan spill. A coolant leak can develop due to a faulty hose. A broken radiator with low fluid usually causes a foul odor and potential engine overheating. Transmission fluid varies in color depending on the manufacturers' standards as either a pink or red fluid. As mentioned before, a failing transmission system will have trouble switching gears or cause unusual noises.
The various ways that a vehicle communicates a fault in one of its parts all help preserve the component's life before absolute failure, whether it be notifications from the dashboard or the driver's use of senses. These indications allow the operator to be proactive by fixing the issue. Professionals recommend maintenance services be performed routinely to stay on top of faulty parts before they require significant and expensive repairs.
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A vehicle's starter or starter motor is the electrical source of power that turns over to crank the engine and begin ignition. The starter works with the battery and other electrical components such as wiring to start the vehicle. The battery is the number one voltage or power source in a vehicle and consists of Direct Current (DC). The battery supplies the vehicle with 12 volts of power and the starter relies on this energy to initiate. When a vehicle is turned over, the starter motor must have a high electric current and sufficient power to start, or else the starting process will fail. The starter is made up of two different parts: the crankshaft and the solenoid. The two components work together with the support of the battery during the cranking process. WHAT ARE THE SIGNS A STARTER HAS FAILED? When a starter has failed, the engine will not have the power that it needs to run. Often a vehicle will indicate that its energy supply from the starter is insufficient through various signals. Some of the most common signals of a bad starter include: The engine not turning over or cranking Clicking, grinding, or whirring noises Irregular issues when starting the vehicle The starter stays on after the vehicle is started Smoke comes from the vehicle The starter engages but the motor fails to start The battery is dead Starter issues can present themselves if proper maintenance is not a priority. Often, the reasons for a failing starter are simple and can be avoided when the vehicle is inspected during maintenance appointments regularly. A technician typically monitors the components of a vehicle during scheduled maintenance service and lack of routine can inhibit the vehicle owner from knowing what is going on under the hood. When a driver is aware of their vehicle's parts and the functionality of the components therein, then it permits the opportunity to catch and alleviate minor issues before they turn into costly repairs down the line. WHAT CAUSES STARTER ISSUES? Starter issues can be caused by lack of maintenance, but they can also be the result of normal wear and tear. All vehicle components aren't designed to live forever and will fail and need to be replaced eventually. The most common reasons that a starter begins to have issues and needs to be replaced are as follows: There are loose wires to and from the starter The started connections are dirty and corroded The battery is corroded The parts of the starter system are damaged or worn There is an oil leak The relay or fuses are bad A bad starter can be the result of overlooking its components over time. Corrosion is normal but should be monitored and as soon as it is identified on any of the vehicle parts even when it is minimal, it should be rectified. Oil leaks happen and usually start small but with a proper maintenance schedule can be caught early. Worn-out or damaged parts are a part of normal wear and tear. Your vehicle is being started every day to get you to and from where you need to go. The parts that make up the starter system like the wiring can only las so long before attention is needed. It is highly recommended to place your vehicle on a maintenance schedule to remain proactive when unnoticeable issues occur under the hood of a vehicle.
Diesel engines face similar issues. Knowing what to do when you need diesel engine repair will keep your engine running smoothly and have you prepared to handle any potential obstacles in your way. By performing preventative diesel truck maintenance, we can effectively find issues your diesel truck may have while they are minor before they grow into something more significant. Every diesel engine is a bit different, but they utilize a similar principle; a diesel engine takes air, compresses it, and injects fuel into the compressed air. The heat of the compressed air ignites the fuel spontaneously. Converting this energy into rotary mechanical energy that powers your vehicle. NOTICING ANYTHING STRANGE? There are several indicators that your diesel truck showcases to let you know you need diesel engine repair. This is your truck’s way of letting you know that there is a problem that needs to be resolved quickly before it escalates into something significant. These indicators are: Strange noises from the engine (pinging or knocking) Check engine light comes on Your diesel engine stalls A decrease in power Colored smoke coming from the exhaust If your truck is experiencing any of these issues, your vehicle may be due for a professional maintenance check. These issues can escalate in severity and cause additional problems if left untreated. Your vehicle is calling out for help. Knowing what is going on and what to do can make all the difference for your vehicle’s longevity and performance. WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MY DIESEL ENGINE? If you need diesel engine repair, it’s probably because you’re experiencing some issues with your truck’s engine components not working together correctly. There are several factors at play here that could be your truck’s diesel engine issues. These issues include overheating engine issues, engine oil oxidation, damaged diesel injectors, and glow plug issues. These issues are found through a proper diesel engine diagnostic performed during routine diesel truck maintenance checks with our reputable diesel truck repair specialists! WHAT DO YOU DO NOW? If you recognize any issues with your diesel engine and think you will need diesel engine repair, then call our repair shop! Even if you only have an inkling or a bad feeling that your diesel engine is having problems, don’t hesitate to have it professionally checked! Our diesel truck repair shop provides a variety of services, including diesel engine repair! Take your vehicle to the experts if you are worried about any mechanical issues pertaining to your diesel truck! These kinds of issues take special equipment and expertise to resolve. Call us today or see our Contact website tab to schedule service
The engine is the most important component in the functionality of your vehicle. Engine damage is inconvenient and scary. However, knowing the signs can often avoid severe damage; you must pay attention! Regular preventative maintenance can also help catch issues before they fester into real problems. You should never ignore any signs of engine failure and immediately seek an automotive repair shop. Although not all engine issues are serious, they can all result in engine failure and, in the worst cases, involve the purchase of an entirely new engine. ENGINE FAILURE WARNING SIGNS The check engine light is the first warning sign to be on the lookout for. This light indicates that there is some issue within the engine and that it’s best to get your vehicle looked at. Engine knocking is a frequent knocking or banging sound coming from the engine; if left unattended, this issue could cause significant damage. Smoke from the exhaust can also indicate that your engine has a problem. Overheating can cause many problems and can cause the engine to seize if driven. Decreased fuel economy could indicate that your vehicle has engine damage and may need engine repair. MOST COMMON VEHICLE ENGINE PROBLEMS Many problems can occur in your vehicle’s engine bay. These engine issues can range in severity and cause more significant problems if left untreated. They are: Improper lubrication Oil deposits Broken timing belt Leaking coolant Damaged oxygen sensors Aged spark plugs Failing oil pump Prolonged engine detonation Inadequate fuel and air compression These engine damage points can lead to more severe damage if left untreated. While these are the most common engine problems, there are others left unlisted that your vehicle may be experiencing. If you suspect your vehicle has engine problems, don’t hesitate to contact our automotive repair shop. CAUSES OF ENGINE DAMAGE One of the most preventable causes of engine damage is a lack of oil in the engine. This causes the engine’s moving parts to grind together and cause severe damage. Your vehicle can also experience damage from misfires, an explosion event that occurs in your engine’s combustion chamber. This can be caused by an issue with the timing, air/fuel ratio, or spark ignition. This isn’t an issue, but continuous misfires can lead to significant damage over time. A hydro-locked engine could also be a culprit for engine damage. This is when your vehicle gets submerged in water that is too deep, such as a flash flood, and water gets sucked into the engine. Water cannot be compressed, so it can cause significant issues; it is best to avoid deep water that is more than a couple of inches deep if possible. An overheating engine is the most common cause of engine damage, as issues with your cooling system can cause the engine to get too hot and make the metal components bend or warp and seize the engine altogether. To prevent his damage, keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge and have your cooling system checked periodically.
Many consumers have driven gas-powered trucks to get around, but there is an even more rewarding truck on the market that provides better fuel economy, more torque, and holds more value. These benefits are only possible if routine diesel truck maintenance is the top priority. WHAT IS A DIESEL TRUCK? A diesel-powered truck takes air, compresses the air, and then injects fuel into the compressed air. The heat of the air initiates the fuel to create the vehicle start-up process. Since diesel engines start ignition in such a unique way, it requires special maintenance compared to gas-powered trucks, where there are fewer filters and fluids—maintaining all vehicles, whether gas or diesel, is essential for their health and longevity. Although diesel trucks go longer between maintenance visits, each visit is much more complex and requires specialized technicians and attention. In addition to coolant, air filter, and oil, diesel trucks require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that are both in place to cater specifically to the health of the atmosphere. DEF is a mixture of urea and water that lessens the production of harmful emissions that spew from the exhaust muffler of a diesel truck. A DPF is a filter that traps damaging particulates before they place themselves into the atmosphere. These two components make up some of the most significant differences between diesel-powered and gas-powered trucks and the complexity of diesel truck maintenance. WHAT IS DIESEL TRUCK MAINTENANCE? The purpose of maintenance is to decrease the likelihood of part failure by staying on top of wear and tear before it turns into the destruction that will require outright replacement. Expert technicians highly recommend routine maintenance on all fluids, filters, and parts because they can get under the hood and see premature faults before they create a domino effect of failures. Preventative maintenance on diesel trucks is much more intricate and timelier than on gas-powered trucks because there are more things to monitor. Diesel truck maintenance consists of monitoring fluids and filters similar to those of a gas-powered vehicle and parts only involved in diesel trucks. Here is a list of things that diesel truck maintenance technicians monitor during routine servicing: Regular oil and oil filter changes Glow Plug inspection Monitoring Gaskets Use of Diesel Treatment fluid Monitoring Coolant Air Filter Change Fuel Filter Change This list consists of the most critical elements of a maintenance procedure that technicians must monitor thoroughly during every visit. Since diesel engines are designed somewhat differently than gas-powered engines, any lack of nurturing of their components will result in irreversible damage. Oil changes are vital for a diesel engine because, without on-time changes, diesel engines are easily destroyed. Glow plugs are a part that only diesel trucks possess. This component is in the combustion chamber, producing the heat necessary to start, run, and maintain the diesel engine optimally. Technicians will monitor the gasket regularly to ensure there are no leaks. Gasket leaking should be observed and fixed immediately. If a leak is discovered in either gasket, technicians should replace the part. If one has failed, all of them are on their way to failure. Another valuable component that works strictly for diesel engines is diesel treatment fluid. The driver should incorporate this into the tank to keep impurities from attacking the engine. Coolant works as it would in a gas-powered engine. The radiator relies on this fluid to work as a cooling mechanism, but if not closely monitored and flushed out, it can create an acidity that can destroy the radiator in diesel trucks. The air filter in any vehicle is in place to protect the engine from harmful particles. In a diesel engine, it is pivotal to replace the air filter to stop dust that can create engine failure over time proactively. The final filter specifically designed for diesel engines is the fuel filter. This filter consists of a primary and secondary filter that protects the diesel engine from extremely small particles that can create damage. Professionals highly recommend that both filters be changed every maintenance visit. Diesel truck maintenance has similarities to gas-powered truck maintenance, but the differences involved are some of the most extremely important components that can negatively affect the diesel engine. Diesel trucks only benefit the driver in terms of fuel economy, the ability to haul heavy loads with limited to no wasteful force and their reliability on the road and long-term are only possible with vital up-keep. With a diesel truck, routine visits to the shop are much less, but every visit counts towards its health.
If you are driving down the road and notice that your temperature gauge is showing that it is hotter than usual, pull over as soon as it is safe. Operating a vehicle while it is overheating is unsafe and could cause a catastrophic failure for your vehicle. Knowing the warning signs of overheating and understanding what to do when it occurs could save your vehicle’s engine and yourself a lot of money in the future. A cracked engine block and cylinders can make your engine seize, which can be a very costly engine repair. You may need cooling system repair, but it is essential to watch for signs and respond to them immediately. WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR The warning light on the dashboard is the first sign to look out for. Knowing what warning indicators mean and they pop up will keep you informed; refer to your owner manual about what the symbol looks like in your vehicle! This symbol will showcase when your temperature gauge is nearing its maximum, which indicates that your engine is too hot! Another sign that your engine is overheating is steam coming from your vehicle’s hood, or your hood is hot to the touch. This also indicates that your engine is too hot! Another indicator is a strange, sweet smell that originates from the engine. This could be the scent of leaking radiator fluid, be on the lookout for a pool of coolant on the ground under your vehicle as well! If you notice any of these signs, then you may need cooling system repair! WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR ENGINE IS OVERHEATING If you notice that your vehicle is overheating, here are some things you can do to help cool off your engine. Pull over as soon as it is safe; driving with an overheating engine could cause significant damage. Turn off the air conditioner and turn up the heat; this helps divert the heat away from the engine. Call our automotive repair shop, as this is a severe problem, and you need to get your vehicle fixed asap. Wait at least 15 minutes for your vehicle to return to a normal engine temperature. When you notice the temperature gauge increase, you’ll need to let it cool off again before driving it to our automotive repair shop. If the engine is completely cooled, you can add additional coolant; check your owner’s manual for more information on adding coolant to your vehicle. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NEXT? Do not let this issue stay around and linger. This type of problem is not something that will go away on its own; you will need to have your cooling system repaired by a reputable automotive repair shop. This issue is of great importance that a team of expert technicians resolves it. To prevent this type of issue from happening in the first place, we recommend regularly scheduled coolant flushes and radiator maintenance. Routine inspections and preventive maintenance on your vehicle will drastically reduce the chances of something like this from occurring in the first place and can help fix potential problems before they become more severe.
A vehicle is programmed with a computer to communicate in various ways that a fault is detected. Each fault has an error code that displays an icon in correspondence to the issue. For instance, often times if a vehicle dictates low tire pressure, it may communicate just that or post a tire icon on the dashboard to relay the message. An engine issue is typically conveyed with an engine icon to make known one or more parts tied to the engine need healing. On top of these listed messages are others linked to the drivers' senses, such as sight, sound, smell, and touch. Here are the most overlooked warning signs that can result in major repairs if neglected for too long. OVERHEATING Coolant is necessary for all vehicle types, whether diesel or gas powered, compact car or truck. The coolant keeps the engine from overheating, protecting its vital parts. Coolant should be regularly monitored and flushed to allow the radiator to perform its function. Old coolant can destroy the metal parts that make up the engine due to acidity. Auto experts recommend that a vehicle's acid levels read no less than 10 to avoid major and expensive repairs to the radiator or the engine and use strips to run test. During the coolant flush process, technicians will use a cleaning mechanism to flush out the coolant to break it down. This procedure flushes not only the old coolant but also any rust, dirt, or sludge that may have accumulated from the water hoses and the engine over time. SQUEAKY BRAKES The brakes in every vehicle have the most critical role in protecting the driver, their passengers, and others on the road. Brake issues usually occur due to a lack of maintenance by regularly checking the brake pads, discs, and lines. Brakes often convey there is needed attention through squeaking and squealing during operation. Monitoring the life of these components can protect the brakes from more expensive repairs like warped or worn brake rotors. Decreased brake performance develops due to normal wear and tear, which is why these parts require maintenance. Failure to do so and the brakes could fail completely WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD As mentioned before, every vehicle is programmed with a computer with communication capabilities to relay messages that will be in the best interest of the vehicle parts. Check engine lights can be tied to several different factors within the vehicle. Often, a vehicle will issue a check engine light notification when something as simple as a gas cap is loose. Whatever the case, the warning lights protect the driver and the parts. These warning lights allow the operator to be proactive, take action, and avoid unwanted and potentially expensive repairs. TRANSMISSION SLIPPING The transmission is one of a vehicle's most essential parts. The transmission is in place to ensure that the engine turns and delivers a balanced power rate depending on the driver's desire. That balance is determined by if the driver wishes to accelerate or drive at slower speeds. Transmissions require fluid to conduct performance and are needed to be flushed in intervals. These flushes exist because, just like other components of a vehicle, normal wear and tear deplete parts and fluids of their capabilities. Frequently, a driver may hear strange noises from the transmission or restrictions when shifting gears to convey that a flush is necessary. SHAKING, VIBRATIONS, BURNING SMELLS AND SMOKE With the use of the driver's senses, many issues can be determined and possibly fixed before significant repairs are mandatory. Vibrations or shaking are one of many apparent indicators of an issue. Any shaking or vibrating in the steering wheel or the seat may be due to suspension decline, bad tires, or an electrical issue. The smell of burning oil or visibly identifying smoke from under the hood could be due to a blown gasket, a damaged cylinder, or worse, a cracked engine block. Cracks in the engine parts can cause coolant to burn a thick white smoke. There is also the possibility that small amounts of motor oil or other fluids like power steering fluid, brake fluid, or transmission liquid have reached the engine by mistake. FLUID UNDER THE VEHICLE Fluid leaks under a vehicle are due to broken or worn parts. Water leakage is typically the most harmless instance because a vehicle's air conditioner must release the excess moisture developed in the cabin and usually does so underneath the vehicle. Engine oil leakage is typically produced by a crankshaft seal, failing engine gasket, or an oil pan spill. A coolant leak can develop due to a faulty hose. A broken radiator with low fluid usually causes a foul odor and potential engine overheating. Transmission fluid varies in color depending on the manufacturers' standards as either a pink or red fluid. As mentioned before, a failing transmission system will have trouble switching gears or cause unusual noises. The various ways that a vehicle communicates a fault in one of its parts all help preserve the component's life before absolute failure, whether it be notifications from the dashboard or the driver's use of senses. These indications allow the operator to be proactive by fixing the issue. Professionals recommend maintenance services be performed routinely to stay on top of faulty parts before they require significant and expensive repairs.
