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Timing is CriticalThe timing belt of a vehicle plays a vital role in running the engine. Vehicle s used to be equipped primarily with a timing chain, but now most import vehicles and many of the domestics are being manufactured with a timing belt. The manufacturer of the vehicle sets the mileage interval for the recommended replacement based on the life expectancy of that particular application. These mileage intervals vary greatly and the replacement time recommendation can be from 60,000 miles up to 105,000 miles. The replacement of that belt is one of the most important routine maintenance procedures that is often overlooked. In the event of a timing belt failure the engine will stop running. You can crank the engine but it will not start or fire up. The vehicle will need to be towed to your trusted repair facility. There are two types of timing belt driven engines, one is considered a free running or free wheeling engine, the other is an interference engine. In both of these engines the timing belt transfers the rotation of the crankshaft to the camshaft(s). Camshafts actuate the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves. The valves allow air and fuel into the cylinder and allow exhaust to escape. While the engine is running the valves and pistons are constantly moving up and down at varying speeds, always in perfect sync, because of the timing belt. The difference between these engines is that an interference engine does not allow clearance between the valve at its lowest point and the piston at its highest point. If the timing belt fails and the camshaft and crankshaft get out of sync, and can allow the valves and pistons to make contact, this will cause severe damage. A timing belt failure in a free running or free wheeling engine will not cause severe damage, but will still leave you stranded. Visual inspection of the timing belt is difficult. The belt is concealed under a cover for the protection of the belt. The timing belt is constructed of rubber and nylon belt and has square cogs on the inside of the belt, this is a different design than a drive belt. It usually does not show many signs of wear and cracking. When it fails it is usually because the belt separates, causing some of the cogs sheer off leaving flat spaces on the belt. We highly recommend that the replacement of the timing belt is performed at the mileage interval that the manufacturer of your vehicle has deemed it necessary. Coolant or oil contamination can compromise the integrity of the belt, causing an earlier failure or necessitating an earlier replacement requirement. When the timing belt is replaced it is a good idea to inspect and at times replace some of the other components that work in conjunction with the timing belt. Some of these parts have to be removed to replace the timing belt, and some of them can only be accessed when the timing cover and/or is removed. These items include the camshaft and crankshaft seals, the timing belt tensioner, idler pulleys and rollers, drive belts and in some instances the water pump, balance shaft belt and the balance shaft seal. If you have a vehicle that has an engine equipped with a timing belt, make sure that you are aware of the recommended mileage interval for the replacement of the timing belt. You can refer to your owner's manual or contact your trusted repair facility if you have any questions or cannot find the information. The timing of your engine is critical, keeping it maintained properly will be more cost effective, than fixing the failure. If you have any questions or comments feel free to call or email us at 503-465-2926 or Karen@allaboutautomotive.com. What is a great first car for my teenager?This is one of those questions that there are a lot of different opinions on. Personally I think that you should look at a few different things before you make a decision on what type of car would be best. First of all the statisitics on teenager drivers in the US are not good. In the first six months of driving a driver between the ages of 16 to 19 are 11 times more likely to crash than a 40 to 50 year old. Motor vehicle crashes in the US are the leading cause of death of 15 to 20 year olds. Then you also have the statistic that a motor vehicle crash is 3 times more likely to occur after 9:00 pm. There are a few factors that are behind these statistics. Teenager drivers are still developing their skills, they have a lower ability to detect a hazard, a low perception of risk, they tend to take more risks and have a higher statistic of not wearing seatbelts. Also teenagers with passengers have a 3.6 times higher risk of crashing than if they were driving alone. Due to some of these statistics, safety should probably be the most important factor in the decision making of what type of vehicle to drive. Therefore I would caution you about “reconstructed title” vehicles. If a vehicle has been in a major crash the crumple points on the frame that protect the cabin of the vehicle have already been utilized. So the structure of the vehicle is in a compromised state, and that vehicle would not hold up as well in another crash. Before purchasing this type of car I would recommend taking it to a vehicle frame specialist to check out. The other things you want to look at are:
Teach your new driver to budget about $800 per year for maintenance and repairs. On new cars you don’t need that much, but if you save that yearly, when a 30,000 mile maintenance or new brakes or etc… come up they are always prepared. On a used car those funds will most likely be needed to maintain it properly. As far as, Make or Model of a vehicle each person has their own preferences. Specialty cars, sport cars, and European cars, are more intricate and can be much more expensive to repair and maintain. Asian and Amercian made vehicles can cost less to repair and maintain, but I would double check with your insurance company on the statistics of the year make and model that you are interested in, as to how often they are vandalized and stolen. So, before you or your teenager purchases a car, look at safety ratings, Car Fax Reports, check with your insurance company, and then find out what that vehicle requires for maintenance and how much those costs are. If you buy a vehicle used we recommend getting a Used Vehicle Inspection by a qualified repair facility so that you know how good of shape that vehicle is in. Dealers vs. Independent Repair ShopsWhich is the best way to go for your automotive repair and maintenance needs? Either one can be a good choice, depending on what is most important to you. Let’s examine some of the different aspects of dealers vs. independent repair shops. When your vehicle is new and is still under it’s manufacturer’s warranty, the maintenance being performed on the vehicle is key, to keeping that warranty valid. However, it is not required be performed by the dealer. An independent shop, or a vehicle owner can perform the maintenance, they just need to keep proof, with receipts and noted mileage. If a warranty issue comes up, then for the warranty to cover it, the repair does need to be performed by the vehicle dealer. The dealers are reimbursed for that repair by the corporation of the vehicle manufacturer. A study from the Consumers’ Checkbook (they have been rating auto repair shops since 1976) concluded that, people are more satisfied with independent repair shops. Independents tend to have a consistently lower price on repairs and maintenance, they do not use loss leaders like $5.00 to $10.00 oil changes just to get people come in. Independent shops tend to be smaller, with 3 to 5 technicians, you have the advantage of knowing the owner and everyone that works there. You are also, generally able to talk to the technician who worked on your vehicle directly to ask questions, and due to the smaller environment, a lot of times the same technician ends up working on your vehicle each time it goes into the shop. Thanks to modern day technology and software, independent repair facilities are privy to the same technical and repair information as the dealers. A good independent repair shop will know just as much about a technical service bulletin and/or a recall on your car as a dealer does. A reputable independent repair shop will send you and your vehicle to the dealer when they know a repair can be covered under your manufacturer’s warranty. The independent shops also have the same computer system, same records and level of service as the dealer these days. Our only recommendation is to choose independent repair shops that are ASE Certified which shows they are employing trained ASE technicians. The biggest advantage of taking your vehicle to a dealer shop is it’s tie to the auto manufacturer. If you have a beef with the service or a particular repair you can always take it up with the manufacturer. The dealer can also at times get a goodwill warranty (discount) on a repair, if they get the manufacturer to approve it and if it is a known problem. Dealer vs. independent repair shop it is up to you. Overall both offer expertise in maintenance and repairs on your vehicles, while the independent can offer a more personalized experience. Happy Motoring! April is “Car Care Aware" MonthThe National Car Care Council has deemed the month of April as an annual “Be Car Care Aware Month”. This is to help educate consumers on the importance of preventative maintenance and having regular inspections on their vehicles. Preventative maintenance and regular inspections, saves time, money and has huge safety benefits. Per the US Dept. of Transportation, states that the number 1 reason most vehicles break down on US Highways is flat or blown tires. The number 2 reason is engine overheating. If a vehicle that is driven 12,000 to15,000 miles per year (which is the national average), is inspected every 3,000 miles when the oil change is performed, the average times this vehicle would be seen is 3 to 4 a year. During these inspections the following things should be looked at, filled and assessed: all fluid levels, fluid conditions, fluid leaks, tire wear, tire pressure, brakes, air filters, belts, hoses, suspension, exhaust, lights and windshield wipers. Having these items checked out on your vehicles at least 3 times a year, by a qualified technician and then having the repairs and/or maintenance performed when potential problems were noted, will help to prevent break downs which in turn will make your vehicle, safer to drive, more fuel efficient, have less harmful emissions and will increase its longevity and value. At All About Automotive we perform these inspections with each and every oil change. If you need us to check out your vehicle give us a call at 503-465-2926. “Be Car Care Aware”! Cold-Weather Battery CheckElectrical storage batteries become less efficient as the temperature drops during the cold-weather months. Further complicating the matter is the fact that an engine may be more difficult to turn over in colder weather. These two factors may combine to cause problems. Thus, while a battery in less than peak condition may be acceptable at moderate temperatures, it becomes more vulnerable as the cold season settles in. Have your vehicle’s battery checked before you face the stark reality of having a dead battery on a dark night. Check the sticker on your battery to find out its age, and see if it falls within the safe limit of a battery’s ability to hold a proper charge, typically four years. Have your vehicle’s battery checked before you experience the the stark reality of having a dead battery on a cold dark night. At All About Automotive we do routine checks on batteries, belts, and fluids. We stock batteries for replacement when needed. We will keep you safely on the road through all seasons. Catching Some AirIgnited by the spark, gasoline combines with air inside the cylinders of an internal combustion engine to produce an explosion, which produces movement that drives the wheels. The more powerful the explosion, the higher the engine output. With this in mind, some manufacturers use either turbochargers or superchargers (mechanical compressors) to force additional air into the engine under positive pressure. The difference between the two rests with the fact that a turbocharger is powered by spent exhaust gases, while a supercharger is driven by an accessory belt. Each helps optimize the combustion process and wring the most power out of an engine. As a result, a super-charged or turbo-charged six-cylinder engine can produce the power of an eight-cylinder engine. The additional air that turbochargers and superchargers force into engines under positive Pressure is referred to as “boost.” Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping this type of vehicle running properly. At All About Automotive our ASE Certified technicians have the expertise to maintain and repair such vehicles. Schedule an appointment for a free inspection of the performance of your vehicle. Take Care of Your InvestmentHow will you spend your tax refund? New flat-screen TV? Ipod? Clothes? Vacation? While all of those things might be fun, a better investment might be to spend it on maintenance for one of your largest investments – your vehicle. The National Car Care Council estimates that more than $62 billion in vehicle maintenance and repair is not performed every year. This is evidence that there is considerably more that consumers should be doing to protect their automotive investment. Preventative maintenance can decrease the chances of a breakdown. It will make your vehicle safer, more dependable, more fuel efficient, and less polluting. A properly maintained vehicle has more longevity and is more valuable than an improperly maintained vehicle. As we head into a touchier economic time, saving money and having lower expenses becomes more important. A new automobile is generally most consumers 2nd largest investment next to their home. So a great way to save money and increase financial assets is to hang onto their current vehicle rather than buy a new one every few years. Budgeting for and performing preventative maintenance on your car is one of the best ways to cut your costs and keep your car. IS YOUR ABS LIGHT ON?The acronym ABS stands for Anti-lock Brake System. An ABS system works in conjunction with your regular braking system, to keep your wheels from locking up on wet and slippery roads or during a panic stop. Most newer vehicles offer ABS as either standard or optional equipment. You can tell if your vehicle is equipped with ABS from either your owner’s manual or when you turn on the ignition the yellow ABS indicator light will illuminate. The ABS system was designed to help you to maintain control of your vehicle during emergency braking situations. There are Four-Wheel systems designed to keep all four wheels from locking up. There are also Rear-Wheel-Only systems designed to keep the vehicle from spinning out of control, but the front wheels may still lock up resulting in a loss of steering control. When the ABS is activated you may experience a slight vibration or a rapid pulsation of the brake pedal, almost as if the brakes are pushing back at you. At times, you will feel the pedal suddenly drop. The valves in the ABS unit may also make a grinding, scraping or buzzing noise. This means that your ABS is working and all you have to do is continue to apply firm pressure to the brake pedal and steer. When the ABS indicator light stays illuminated when driving your vehicle, this means that a problem has been detected in the ABS system. The regular braking system on your vehicle will still operate but when the ABS indicator light is on it will disable the anti-lock portion until the problem has been corrected. At All About Automotive we have the diagnostic equipment, training and experience to be able to diagnose and repair the ABS system of your vehicle. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment we can be reached at 503-465-2926. We are located in Downtown Gresham at 139 NW 2nd St. CHECK THE CHARGING SYSTEMThe cold weather can really seem to effect the charging and starting system of your vehicle. Really what is does is emphasize and weaknesses that your charging and starting system has. This is because the engine is harder to crank cold due to the oil thickening. Therefore the battery needs to optimum capacity to be able to power the starter motor. If the battery is weak and not holding a full charge, or if the battery connections, terminals or cables are bad or corroded it can cause a no start condition. If the battery itself is bad and will not take a charge, it will make the alternator overwork by continually trying to charge a failed battery. Over time this can cause damage to the alternator. If the alternator is not keeping the battery charged it can run out of charge and either die while driving or cause a no start condition. If the starter fails it can also cause a no start. We recommend regularly having your charging system checked. Then you can keep your charging system in tip top shape. The items that should be tested and inspected are: A battery load and voltage drop test, inspect and clean connections, inspect for broken posts or leaks. A starter draw test and an alternator amperage and voltage test also checking for a good diode pattern. Having your charging and starting system tested regularly will help to prevent a possible breakdown situation. We at All About Automotive can perform these tests to make sure you are safe during this winter season. We are located at 139 NW 2nd St. in Historic Downtown Gresham. Give us a call if it has been awhile since your vehicle had a charging system test. You can reach us at 503-465-2926. Happy motoring! DO YOU SOMETIMES GET THE SURGE?If your vehicle’s engine surges while you are on the road, the problem is likely caused by engine management failure. This means that the sensors that monitor performance and emissions are relaying problems to the power train control module (PCM), which controls fuel mixture, timing, and emissions management systems. As the result of a failure the vehicle will surge. For instance, if a sensor value is out of the normal range, the PCM may hunt for a value, which causes the engine to surge. Or, a tear in the intake boot may create a vacuum leak that causes one or more sensors to malfunction. Scanning the PCM, pulling the codes and following the diagnostic flow chart for performing pinpoint tests will usually reveal the culprit. We have also found that a plugged exhaust system can cause excessive back pressure, which can also lead to surging. Anytime your vehicle is exhibiting any surging symptoms we recommend having it diagnosed and repaired. This can prevent further damage to the emission system of the vehicle and will help with fuel ecomony. SHUDDER TO THINKIt feels like your engine is jumping around underneath the hood, the shuddering may be due to worn engine mounts. Marks on the radiator are one indication that this may be the problem. In vehicles in which the engine faces forward with the cooling fan being driven by the belt, these marks are a likely indication that worn mounts are allowing the engine to lurch forward in the engine compartment. Unlike the old days, when engine mounts were composed of simple slabs of rubber, today's mounts are precisely engineered into specific shapes. Some may be filled with silicone fluid while others may be electronically controlled. The new mounts may be more expensive to replace, but replaced they must be. By the time most vehicles reach the 70,000-mile mark or so, their engine mounts may be twisted out of shape or cracked due to vibration and high engine-compartment temperatures. We recommend having the engine mounts inspected regularly for signs of wearing or damage. Happy motoring! Cold weather comingYou may have noticed the cold, crisp mornings of winter are starting to present themselves. Your vehicle may have noticed it too. If you have a weak link in the charging and starting system of your vehicle, it is likely to show up at this time of year when the weather conditions start getting colder. A vehicle's charging and starting system is comprised of a starter with a starter solenoid, an alternator and the battery. The starter motor cranks the engine, when engaged with the flywheel. The starter solenoid uses electromagnetic force to power the starter motor and flywheel. The alternator provides power to the vehicle electrical system and charges the battery while the engine is running. Then the battery supplies the energy needed to start the engine and provides current to operate accessories. When the vehicle is not running the battery protects the powertrain control module (PCM or computer) from power surges. Some of the symptoms of a charging and starting system that is failing can be: a little harder or longer to start when cold (like mornings), the charging gauge not at 14 volts, battery light on, headlights going dim, vehicle clock that keeps resetting itself, an intermittent no start problem. These various symptoms can occur when you have either a bad battery, an alternator that is failing or a starter that is drawing to much power or failing. Also, if your battery is in good condition and still holds a charge, but there is a lot of corrosion on the battery terminals or cables it can cause a faulty connection that can cause all types of symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms we recommend having your charging system tested. Even if your not experiencing symptoms it is a good idea to have your vehicle tested about every 6 months. Battery acid is very corrosive and if it remains on the battery posts, terminals and cables it will eventually eat away at the metal. So we recommend keeping your battery, terminals, cables and connections free from corrosion, they can be serviced regularly. There are also batteries on the market that are sealed cell batteries that do not tend to leak so that you can avoid corrosion all together. Have a great month and take care of the charging and starting system of your vehicle, before it leaves you stranded. Happy motoring! From Mechanics to ElectronicsIt probably comes as little surprise that electronics (control modules, computers with various chips and sensors) have begun to replace mechanics in today's automobile systems. Each year electronics become even more pervasive in automobiles, as the car manufacturers build cleaner and safer automobiles. These electronics also provide more comfort and convenience to drivers. Currently, high -tech sensors, radars and cameras are being used for parking-assist units, lane keeping, and adaptive cruise-control systems, as well as in car navigation and remotely controlled locking systems. Hybrid vehicles use twice as many chips as conventional combustion-engine automobiles to integrate electric motors and battery packs with energy-efficient engines. Clean air, safety and fuel efficiency are greatly enhanced with the use of electronic components. When there is a malfunction in an electronically controlled circuit it will signal the check engine light. If the malfunction is not happening every time you drive the vehicle it will clear itself over time until the malfunction happens again. We at All About Automotive recommend having a ASE Certified Diagnostic Technician perform the necessary pinpoint tests if your check engine light illuminates on your vehicle. The computer controlled electronics of your vehicle is designed to compensate for any malfunctions, so that your driviability problems are kept at a minimum, but you most likely have a condition that necessitates a repair. Do not be surprised if there is a diagnostic charge from your repair facility, a proper diagnosis takes time, specialized equipment, and a very knowledgeable, experienced technican. A proper diagnosis in most cases is the more difficult portion of an electronic repair. While today's vehicles are much more complicated and in the future will become even more so. We enjoy the benefits of clean air, safety, fuel efficiency along with many comforts and conveniences. The hot weather is already hitting us in wavesMaybe you noticed that the air conditioning in your vehicle is not quite as cool as you remember. Or maybe it is just blowing hot air. Having your vehicle's air conditioner checked once a year is recommended. This way you can help prevent costly repairs by taking care of the a/c system. A low refrigerant charge can cause major damage to your vehicle's air conditioner. The refrigerant carrries oil that the compressor relies on thru the system. If the refrigerant charge is lost either partially or completely the compressor may starve for oil and fail shortly thereafter. This results in a major expense, not only replacing the compressor, but also the related items that get damaged from compressor failure. It used to be deemed normal to lose, even as much as a pound of refrigerant per year. Today's vehicles are designed to be much more leak resistant. FREON (refrigerant) has been partly responsible for the depletion of the earth's ozone layer and has damaged our environment. The manufacturer's have improved the materials used for the lines, hoses and seals to help prevent further damage. So if your vehicle is low on charge, then there is generally some type of leak that needs to be identified before the system can be recharged. Federal and state regulations require that repair shops have proper equipment to safely capture and install the refrigerant in a vehicle. Each technician that works on your A/C system must be trained and certified by IMACA. Some of the warning signs to look for are:
Having your air conditioning checked yearly will not only be doing your vehicle and pocketbook a favor...you will be making an important step towards protecting our environment. Let the little problems with your A/C system be repaired before they become big ones! Happy Motoring! Is your vehicle leaking coolant or running a little above normal on the temperature gauge?Whenever you have a coolant leak or an issue with your cooling system not working properly, it is very important to have it inspected. If you have been advised of a cooling system leak or repair needed, it is wise to have the repair performed. Loss of coolant and overheating can cause engine damage which can be very costly in the long run. Proper maintenance of your cooling system can help to avoid cooling system leaks and problems. Coolant should be flushed out and replaced every 2 years or 30,000 miles on vehicles. Coolant that has not been changed regularly can be highly corrosive and will eat away at rubber hose and gasket material and can even pit away at metal. Coolant that is deteriorating does not offer the proper protection against heat or cold either. Coolant leaks can also arise from the normal shaking, and vibration, that can cause eventual separation between parts connected by solder, epoxy, and mechanical crimps inside the radiator. In addition, thermal forces arising from extremes in engine temperatures can cause cracks in stressed areas. Coolant leak remedies can range from the tightening of a clamp or hose replacement to radiator repair or replacement. There is a wide range of small to high end repairs in the cooling system. If you have noticed your vehicle leaking coolant, we would recommend having it inspected as soon as possible to avoid a costly repair. We would also recommend servicing your cooling system regularly to keep it in tip top shape! Is your car ready for a road trip?Spring Break is coming up fast, is your car ready for a road trip? For those of you who have travel plans using your vehicle, we would recommend having a pre-trip checkup performed on your car. The Car Care Council offers a few suggestions for a travelers pre-trip checklist: 1) Check all fluids. There are several fluids, in addition to antifreeze, that require attention, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids, and windshield washer solvent. These fluids should be full and clean and any serious leaks repaired. 2) Check hoses and belts. A belt that fails can affect the electrical system, air conditioning and power steering, as well as the cooling system. Cooling system hoses may be deteriorating from within, so old hoses and clamps in marginal condition may need to be replaced. 3) Check the tires. Check tire inflation and inspect the tread for uneven wear, indicating the need for wheel alignment. Also look for bulges and bald spots. 4) Check the wipers. Make sure they fully swipe the windshield without any streaking, smearing or chattering. These are all signs of wipers that need replaced. A pre-trip inspection can help reduce the chances of costly and possibly dangerous road trouble, it also provides an opportunity to have repairs made at home, with your own technician who knows the vehicle. Especially important, it provides peace of mind. While no inspection can guarantee a cars performance, it is comforting to know proper precautions were taken. How important is it that the Ride and Handling System of your vehicle be maintained?What is the best way to maintain it, and how do you know it is wearing? The Ride and Handling System of your vehicle supports the vehicle weight, and keeps the wheels in contact with the road. It also helps provide a comfortable ride for passengers. The main components are bushings, ball joints, control arms, tie rod ends, coil springs, shocks, struts, strut mount bearings and bushings, stabilizer bar and link. Two of the most neglected suspension related items on vehicles, is tire pressure and vehicle ride height. Lack of attention to these areas can contribute to improper wheel alignment, and unnecessary chassis parts wear. If the ride height falls below the manufacturer's specifications the entire suspension system suffers. This in turn reduces your vehicles braking, steering and acceleration capabilities and increases tire wear. Regular maintenance of vehicle suspension plays a major part in handling characteristics, how it feels on the road and how your vehicle steers during an emergency. The suspension parts should be lubricated and inspected with each oil change. The tire pressure should be checked and filled with each oil change also. A thorough inspection of the suspension system is recommended annually. Warning signs of a potential problem include: signs of uneven tire wear, suspension noise or misaligned steering wheel, any shimmy or vibration. If you notice any of these signs I would recommend having your suspension checked out by a qualified technician before a small problem becomes a large one. Visibly BetterFew factors are as important as good visibility when you are driving your vehicle. Toward this end, car owners should replace their wiper blades every six months. The windshield wiper consists of three basic parts-the lower wiper arm that protrudes up from the cowl, the blade that attaches to the wiper arm, and the rubber refill that wipes the glass. The part that eventually breaks down from extreme weather conditions, dust, and dirt is the thin rubber refill. Most often, it can be replaced relatively easily and inexpensively. It is also possible, however, for the blade to become weak and loose or even bend slightly. If you have problems with a chattering blade, replace the entire unit. Before winter arrives, it is a good idea to check your windshield wipers and replace them if they are cracked or warped. That way, you'll be ready for difficult road conditions that might arise. For help with preparing your car for the winter season, consult with the expert staff at ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE. Our capable, ASE-certified technicians can replace the wipers, check your tires, and top off your auto fluids in preparation fro the colder weather ahead. Hint: Clean your windshield every time you fill your tank with gas. At the same time, wipe down the wiper blades with a wet cloth or paper towel. The price of gas is not a very popular subject right now.With the price inching higher and higher, many people are wondering how to save money by getting better gas mileage. So we have put together a few fuel saving tips:
These minor things can cause a total loss of about 11.4 miles per gallon. So even though they are easy inexpensive things to repair or replace it can make a large difference. We also recommend some basic driving tips:
Purifying Your Vehicle's InteriorWhat is a cabin air filter? Cabin air filters are a recent innovation in vehicle compartment comfort. Almost 50% of new vehicles are equipped with cabin air filters.They were designed to improve the air quality in your vehicle. They function much like the furnace filter in your home. The purpose of the cabin air filter is to keep pollen, spores, road dust and soot from getting inside the vehicle. This helps to keep the interior of your vehicle clean. It also reduces the amount of contaminants entering your lungs. The cabin air filter is mounted at the air inlet for the cabin of your vehicle. This position varies a little for each vehicle, it is either in or under the glove box, under the dash or under the hood cowl of your vehicle. A dirty or plugged cabin air filter restricts clean air flow through your vehicle's ventilation system, hampering optimal operation of your defrost, heating and cooling system. Like your household air conditioning system, your cabin air filter needs to be serviced on a regular basis to keep your vehicle's heating and cooling system operating at its peak condition. Cabin air filters should be checked and/or replaced about every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year. This will ensure that you have fresh clean air to breathe and that your vehicle's heating and cooling system will operate at it's peak efficiency. Driving AmbitionThe days have passed when an automobile could be purchased on the basis of kicking the tires and listening to the door shut. Gone also is the era when driveway tinkering under the hood would yield a finely-tuned automobile. Today's cars possess advanced technical systems that alleviate the need for much of the work associated with the old-fashioned tune-up. By adhering to a recommended program of computer based diagnosis and maintenance, car owners can expect to enjoy sustained, event-free driving. The purpose of this column is to inform our readers of automobile safety features, system advances, and driving tips that will help in the purchase of a car, in effectively maintaining it, and in enjoying its performance. Driving with ConfidenceTechnologies such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and four-wheel-drive may help optimize the acceleration and braking capabilities of the vehicles outfitted with them. However, it is the tires that provide the actual gripping ability at the point where the vehicle makes contact with the road. ABS helps prevent the tires from locking and skidding by releasing pressure and pumping the brakes. For its part, traction control helps prevent tire spin by applying the brakes and or reducing the power sent to the tires. As for four-wheel drive, it has the ability to divide power among all four wheels, providing a significant advantage when accelerating in slippery conditions. The more tire traction these systems have to work with, the better. Does your car handle difficult driving conditions well? The friendly, trusted technicians at ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE can help optimize the acceleration and braking capacity of your car or truck by conducting regular maintenance check-ups, as well as performing upgrades and repairs. And, having your new or leased vehicle serviced and maintained at our facility will not void your warranty! Unhealthy OilIf your vehicle is leaking oil, it can usually be found below the centerline of the car on rear-wheel-drive vehicles. On front-wheel-drive vehicles, oil leaks will show up on the engine side of the engine compartment. Engine oil develops a brown or black color within a few hundred miles of being changed. It is normally viscous enough to leave a puddle that does not creep along your garage floor. If the oil is leaking from a valve cover gasket, it may drip onto the exhaust manifold to create a burning smell. In any case, an engine-oil leak should be investigated by an auto technician. Gear lube is also oily and viscous like motor oil, which may confuse the issue. So Much AirThese days, drivers want to wring the best mileage out of every drop of gas. One simple way to accomplish this is to maintain the correct air pressure in a vehicle's tires. The tire pressure recommended in the owners manual or on the tire information placard is a "cold" pressure. Thus, the best time to perform this task is in the morning before the heat of friction plays a role in elevating tire pressure. It is also important to remember that, as the days grow shorter and outdoor temperatures grow colder, the air inside tires contracts. For every change of 10* F in air temperature, there is approximately a 1 pound per square inch (psi) change in the tire pressure. For Starters, How's This?If your vehicle starts only occasionally, the problem may rest with any of the several brushes that comprise the starter. These brushes convey electrical current that enables the starter (a motor) to spin and, consequently, turn over the engine. In some cases, one or more of these brushes "burn" which prohibits electrical currant from passing through them. If the starter is already spinning, it will likely continue to spin even if it reaches one of the burnt brushes. However, if the starter motor stops spinning and it lands on one of the faulty brushes, the vehicle will not start. Repeatedly turning the key will eventually bump the starter past the burnt spot, allowing it to start, hence, the occasional starting. If you are having trouble with your car's starter, consult with the expert technicians at ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE. Our qualified, ASE certified service staff will diagnose your car's starting problems, and repair or replace faulty starters. Hint: A starter with burnt brushes may respond to jumping the battery, as the jump provides double the amount of electrical currant going to the starter, which is more than enough to skip past the bad brush and get the motor spinning. What's Leaking?Beware of puddles of liquid underneath your parked vehicle. On a hot day, the liquid that puddles on the floor just ahead of the firewall (near the passenger's feet) may just be water that drains from the air conditioner. This water is normal. The time to worry is when you do not see any water under your vehicle after it has had the air conditioning running. This may mean that the drain has plugged up. If so, the water may make its way to the passenger's feet rather than onto the garage floor. Leaking windshield washer fluid will have a soapy feel and an alcoholic smell. It may be indicative of a failed washer hose or connection. Pay attention to your car-if you do not see water beneath your vehicle after the air conditioning is running, you may have a plugged drain or similar problem. If you have concerns about leaks from your car or truck, consult with the friendly, expert technicians at ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE. We perform routine maintenance, as well as comprehensive repair services. Whatever your auto needs, come by our service center located at 139 NW 2nd Street, or call us today at 503-465-2926 for quality you can trust. Bad Vibes!Most trucks, RVs, 4X4s, and all rear-wheel-drive vehicles employ a drive-shaft or propeller shaft to transmit power from the transmission to the differential, where it is transmitted to the rear wheels. Because the transmission and differential constantly change their position relative to each other, at least two universal joints (U-joints) are required. Drive-shafts and U-joints are usually trouble free, but vibration may pose problems. This usually occurs at higher speeds, and the vibration can be very violent if the imbalance is severe. U-joint failures usually occur when the bearings wear out. If you experience propeller shaft vibration, take your vehicle to a technician, who can inspect the drive-shaft for dents, rust, or anything else that could cause imbalance. Hearing clunking sounds when you shift gears or feeling the car vibrate may indicate problems with the drive-shaft or U-joints. At ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE, we can help get to the bottom of your car's symptoms, and advise you on your best options for repairing it. Beware of Flooded EnginesBy some estimates, up to 350,000 vehicles were damaged by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and auto experts are warning consumers to be aware of unscrupulous dealers and brokers who may try to pawn off these vehicles on unsuspecting used car buyers. Half of all vehicles damaged by hurricane Floyd (1999) were put back on the road. The fact is that when vehicles become submerged in salt water, it corrodes electrical systems, wreaks havoc with the engine, and rusts body panels. Even so, flood vehicles may be cleaned up and marketed to unwary buyers. To avoid this possibility, always work with reputable dealers and brokers whom you can trust and who can provide clear documentation about the vehicle's past history. Flooding and other extreme weather can take a serious toll on your car or truck, affecting its performance in the short term and its resale value later. At ALL ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE, we can help your car recover from severe weather damage, and keep it running as smoothly as possible. Our staff of ASE-certified technicians will assess any damage your car has sustained, and advise you on how best to protect your investment. Hold Your Horses!Can you be sure that the vehicle you are going to purchase has the amount of horsepower claimed by the manufacturer? To make sure you are getting what you are pay for, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has updated its engine testing standards. This will eliminate possible disparities between a vehicle's advertised horsepower claim and the power it actually delivers. Definitions pertaining to acceptable intake-air density and exhaust back pressure are now more precise. In addition, accessory losses, such as those caused by the power steering pump, are now included. In order to comply with the SAE-Certified label in their advertising, car manufacturers must abide by the new standards and their procedures must be monitored by qualified third party witnesses. This May Come as a Shock…or StrutThe shock and/or struts in your vehicle both dampen spring oscillation and aid ride control while the springs do the job of absorbing road shocks. If the shock absorbers did not dampen the spring oscillations from the road shock, the vehicle would bounce like a bucking horse with every bump. In addition the shock absorbers aid the ride control by keeping the tires pressed to the road and not allowing them to bounce after a bump. This allows for ease of cornering and handling. Signs that you need new shocks/struts include a "floaty" feel to the suspension at highway speeds, with little directional control. Another sign is the car continues to bounce a few times after you go over a bump, and the vehicle will lean badly in turns and not settle immediately after the turn. Run the AC in the WinterIt might seem like absurd advise to recommend that vehicle owners run their air conditioning in the winter. However, running or cycling the AC unit may help prolong the life of its most expensive component. The compressors job is to compress and pressurize the refrigerant. residing within the compressor are internal gaskets, which, if the AC is not used for long periods of time, may dry and crack. While it may take some time for this deterioration to take place, if it does occur, it can lead to big repair bills. To avert this problem, you can cycle your air conditioning, by either running your defrost (which cycles the AC unit), or running the air conditioning at least once a week all year long to keep the gaskets in good shape. Flushing Your Coolant in Cold WeatherThe snow, freezing rain and cold weather have really set in during the last month. During this type of weather we really appreciate being inside of our vehicle with the heater keeping us toasty warm and protected against the cold. On the flipside if our heater is not working properly, this is the time we really notice it. During the last month, we have seen numerous vehicles with heaters not working for various reasons. These reasons can be broken up into 2 basic catagories, those in which the engine does not achieve temperature or achieves termperature intermittently. One thing to remember is that a properly working heating system will start blowing warm air, once the engine is warm and the coolant that is being circulated through the cooling system of the vehicle has heated up to approximately 190 degrees. So coolant flow, level and condition is very important to the heating system of a vehicle. When you have a vehicle that is not heating properly here are some of the things that get inspected and tested: If coolant level is low, this will reduce the proper flow of coolant and most likely there is an external or internal leak that needs repaired. If the coolant condition is dirty, it can plug or clog the radiator or heater core, this can cause engine overheating and lack of heat in the cabin of the vehicle. If the thermostat is not operating properly, like being stuck open or closed it can restrict coolant flow or cause engine overheating issues. If the hot water valve, heater blower motor or blend door is not operating properly it can shut heat off and not allow the hot air into the cabin of the vehicle. If the heat in your vehicle is not working properly, we recommend having these things checked out and if your radiator or heater core are plugged, they can at times be flushed out if they are only partially plugged. A regular coolant flush will not usually unplug them it needs to be a more intrusive flush designed to remove corrosion. To keep your coolant clean and doing its job of reducing the boiling point and raising the freezing poing in your vehicle, we recommend having the coolant flushed out every 2 years or 30,000 miles as regular, preventative maintenance. Steering in the Wrong DirectionIf you notice that your vehicle is not going precisely where you are steering it and your tires are wearing prematurely, it may be that your tie rods are in need of replacement. On vehicles with conventional suspensions and re circulating-ball steering gears, tie rods serve as connectors between the center link and the steering knuckle. On vehicles equipped with McPherson struts and rack-and-pinon steering gears, tie rods link the end of the rack to the steering knuckle. Either way, tie rods play a critical role in a vehicle's ability to steer. Thus, they are among the first components that an auto technician will check when a vehicle wanders on the road. In any case, tie rods should be checked annually. Is the Spark Missing?Leaking spark plug wires can lead to engine misfires. To verify this cause, an auto technician will closely examine the wire jackets to see if they are damaged from the outside. If so, such damage may be due to abrasion caused by engine vibration (particularly at the plug end boots), a hot engine compartment, spilled fluids or battery acid, multiple disconnections and reconnections for service, or even nesting rodents. If the outer jacket is damaged, the high-voltage electricity contained within may follow an easier path than the one that otherwise directs it to jump the gap between electrodes to produce the "spark" that ignites the fuel mixture. Replacing the spark plug wires will restore the spark to its proper place. If you have noticed your car or trucks engine misfiring, it is time to get the spark plug wires checked out. |
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