Car Mechanics

Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump

Your vehicle needs gas to run. And for that gas to get to your engine, you need a fuel pump. The vehicle fuel pump plays a critical role in the overall performance and efficiency of vehicles. However, like any mechanical part, fuel pumps can wear out over time and eventually fail. Recognizing the warning signs of a failing fuel pump can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. It’s all about catching it in time. Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump Engine Sputtering or Surging If the fuel pump is not supplying the required amount of fuel to the engine, it can result in inconsistent fuel delivery. That inconsistency can lead to engine sputtering and surging during acceleration. The engine could also hesitate, lose power, or surge forward unexpectedly. If you experience any unusual behavior while accelerating, it's time to have your fuel pump/fuel system inspected. Difficulty Starting the Engine A failing fuel pump can make it difficult to start your vehicle, especially after it has been sitting [...]

By |2024-09-09T14:07:54-06:00June 23rd, 2023|Car Parts, Car Service & Maintenance|0 Comments
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What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid?

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a combination of urea and deionized air. This fluid is essential for keeping a diesel engine running smoothly and provides a reduction of harmful contaminants, such as nitrogen oxide, that are released into the environment. When this fluid is allowed to run low, diesel vehicles suffer from reduced performance and may even cease to turn on until the tank is refilled. The Importance of Diesel Exhaust Fluid Diesel exhaust fluid helps to reduce the amount of pollution that is produced by medium and heavy-duty diesel engine exhaust systems. The SCR system injects the DEF into the exhaust, transforming harmful pollutants into clean air through a chemical reaction. DEF is not a fuel additive and it's stored in a separate tank. While it may seem like an inconvenience to spend money on an extra fluid, drivers of diesel trucks, buses, and heavy machinery need DEF to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Do All Diesel Vehicles Require Exhaust Fluid? Vehicle manufacturers began implementing selective catalytic [...]

By |2023-03-14T12:22:21-06:00March 14th, 2023|Car Parts, Car Questions|0 Comments
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Car Parts 101: Mass Airflow Sensor

Mass airflow sensors are an integral component of your vehicle's functionality. If something malfunctions with the sensor, you'll notice immediate signs that something has gone awry. The engine at best, will run poorly or it may not run at all. How Does a Mass Airflow Sensor Work? Mass airflow sensors can also be referred to as air meters. They play a fundamental role within your automobile's system by measuring the amount of air entering the engine. The input provided by the sensor then allows the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) to regulate the opening and closing of the fuel injectors, adjust ignition timing and when the ignition coil/s fire. The aforementioned parts, in harmony with the PCM, allows the air to fuel ratio stay in proper balance. The MAF sensor has two sensing wires. Via an electrical current, one wire is heated and cooled down by the amount of air that flows over the heated wire.  As the temperature difference fluctuates between the two wires, this provides input to the PCM to either provide more [...]

By |2023-02-24T09:40:57-06:00February 22nd, 2023|Car Parts|0 Comments
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Improving Diesel Truck Performance

Today's diesel trucks are rugged and ready for any adventure you may throw at them. Keeping your diesel truck running efficiently means reliability and helps you ensure you're getting the most use out of it. 5 Ways Boost Performance on a Diesel Truck Every driver's mileage may vary in terms of how they want to boost the performance of their truck. Depending on individualized needs and the day-to-day requirements of the your diesel truck, some owners may want to focus on fuel efficiency while others want more power and torque for carrying heavy cargo or towing extra weight. 1. Upgrade the Exhaust System Upgrading the exhaust system on your diesel truck with an aftermarket modification can improve the power and torque, but can also boost the fuel economy and overall performance of the vehicle. An exhaust system with a larger capacity takes some strain off the engine and allows it to work more efficiently, especially when you add custom tuning. 2. Install Fuel Injectors Installing aftermarket fuel injectors on [...]

By |2023-02-09T09:20:22-06:00February 9th, 2023|Car Tips|0 Comments
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Tips to Have the Best Car Repair Experience

Car repair can be costly and time-consuming, which leaves many drivers frustrated. Establishing a trusted relationship with a local mechanic can be the difference between having a broken-down vehicle and one that runs safely. Heading to the mechanic isn't always the most exciting item on the to-do list, though it's often necessary when you want the best car repair done by a professional. You can ensure the process goes smoothly by preparing yourself before speaking to your mechanic by collecting information, availability, and providing them with a tidy car to work on. Steps to Having the Best Car Repair Experience Before you step into your local repair shop, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you're able to, set up an appointment beforehand to ensure the best service possible. This also provides your mechanic the chance to inquire about the type of work you're needing to be done so that they can prepare more efficiently. Communicate the Mechanical Issue Mechanics can provide solutions to most issues [...]

By |2023-01-23T14:07:58-06:00January 23rd, 2023|Auto Care, Car Tips & Damaged Car, Houston Texas|0 Comments
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Signs of a Bad Car Heater Core

Don't be alarmed if you're uncertain where your car heater core is located or what its function is. This vehicle component isn't often talked about until something goes wrong, at which point, a costly repair may be needed to fix it. The heater core is located behind/under the dashboard, so most drivers never see it. Driving with a busted car heater core can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. During the winter, a clogged heater core will lead to a cold passenger cabin. A bad heater core can also lead to an overheated engine (if the core is leaking; thereby causing the coolant level to not be sufficient) and potentially extensive repair work. Seeing a trend? You really want your car heater core to be working efficiently and correctly. What Does a Car Heater Core Do? The heater core in a vehicle operates as a small radiator. It circulates the hot coolant through the cabin of the vehicle, which enables the heater to function during the winter months. When a [...]

By |2022-12-14T08:40:15-06:00December 14th, 2022|Car Parts, Car Tips & Damaged Car|0 Comments
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Why Independent Auto Shops Can Be Better Than Dealerships

Many consumers are under the impression that dealers know best when it comes to repairs and general vehicle maintenance. However, you can often find better prices and friendlier service from independent auto shops. It's key to remember that dealerships are in the business of selling cars, while independent shops are focused on providing quality service and being part of the community. They gain nothing by quoting you expensive repairs in the hopes of encouraging you to trade in your car. How Independent Auto Shops Help the Customer Once you find an independent auto shop that you trust, you'll have a connection with the individuals that service your car. Depending on the size of the shop, you may even find that you're on a first-name basis with the employees. When deciding between the pros and cons of independent auto shops versus the dealership, there are a few benefits that auto shops provide that dealers can't compete with. Budget-Friendly Alternative Parts While some people prefer only using OEM parts in their [...]

By |2022-11-18T12:29:22-06:00November 18th, 2022|Car Service & Maintenance, Houston Texas|0 Comments
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What’s the Deal With Your Car’s EVAP System?

An EVAP system stands for Evaporative Emission Control System. While most vehicles come equipped with this component, not every driver is aware of its function. These systems have been required on all gas-powered vehicles since the 70s and for an environmentally conscious reason. Before such a system was in place within cars, fuel systems would pollute fumes into the environment even when the engine was turned off. Car EVAP systems are used to keep gasoline vapors contained. This is not only beneficial to the atmosphere but the overall fuel efficiency of the vehicle by keeping the fuel within the vehicle. What Is an EVAP System? These systems are designed around the purpose of preventing gas vapors from seeping out of the fuel tank and into the surrounding environment. This helps control greenhouse emissions. Without a proper EVAP systems in place, gas-powered vehicles would be significantly more environmentally damaging. The EVAP system has been designed to both store and safely dispose of damaging fuel vapors to ensure they aren't released. [...]

By |2022-10-26T09:20:33-06:00October 26th, 2022|Car Parts, Car Questions|0 Comments
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Soft Clutch – What Does it Mean?

A soft clutch can be a clear sign that a replacement is in order. As your vehicle's clutch wears down, it may begin to feel soft and spongy when you press down on it. This inconsistent feeling is a sign that you should bring your vehicle into a shop to get it looked at. If your clutch is allowed to break down completely, your car eventually won't move. What Exactly Is a Soft Clutch? For those who have never heard the term, "soft clutch," before, it's simply a reference to a clutch that has been worn down to the point that it feels spongy, or soft, when you put pressure on it. Conversely, if the clutch pedal feels like it’s harder to push down, the pressure plate springs may be getting worn and it’s still a good idea to have a shop look at it. When you depress the clutch, it should have a consistent spring to it all the way down. If you're being met with little resistance [...]

By |2022-08-16T13:47:40-06:00August 16th, 2022|Car Parts, Car Questions, Car Tips & Damaged Car|0 Comments
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Differences in Wheel Alignment – Front-End and 4-Wheel

If you've been having to fight the pull of your steering wheel while making your daily commute to work, it may be time to head in for an alignment. When a vehicle is out of alignment, drivers may notice that it begins to drift to one side or another — making for unsafe handling on the road. The question is, do you need a front-end or a 4-wheel alignment and what are the differences in wheel alignment? The type of alignment your vehicle requires depends on whether your car or truck has front-wheel or all-wheel drive. After proper alignment has been achieved, you'll have a smoother ride that may even save you money at the gas pump. Front-End Vs. 4-Wheel Alignment and Differences in Wheel Alignment The difference between front-end and 4-wheel alignment comes down to how many tires are being aligned. When a technician aligns all four wheels, it's commonly referred to as a wheel alignment or a 4-wheel alignment. If only two wheels are needing to be [...]

By |2022-06-10T11:06:24-06:00June 10th, 2022|Car Parts, Car Questions|0 Comments
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