Yearly Archives: 2023

5 Signs Of A Bad Alternator

5 Signs Of A Bad Alternator

Before we get into everything else, first you have to know what an alternator is. We can explain in detail, but let's leave mechanical talk to the specialists at the shop. Here is a simple explanation. When your engine is working, one or more pulleys are connected to it. These pulleys transfer mechanical energy using belts or chains to the surrounding components that need it. One of the main ones is the alternator. It converts mechanical energy to electricity, charging the battery. This is the main supply of electricity the battery gets, and if it fails, curtain signs occur - here are some of them, so you know when to go to the repair shop to save up on future headaches. 1. Battery Light Turns On The main reason for your car's battery light to come on is not a bad charge, but a faulty alternator. When there is no energy going in and a lot going out, the result is a loss of charge. This happens when the alternator doesn't charge the battery. It can be caus ... read more

How Does A Differential Work?

How Does A Differential Work?

How Does A Differential Work? There are multiple types of differentials and they all function differently, were going to talk about the most common differential which is called an open differential. Simply put the differential takes the power coming from the engine and splits it between the two wheels it is turning. The rear drive line attaches to either the back of the transmission or the transfer case depending on if its 4WD or not, as the engine transfers power through the transmission and into the drive line forcing it to rotate, the gears that are inside the differential housing, in turn rotating the axles which are attached to the tires allowing you to move forward and backward. Much like an engine these gears are suspended in a special gear oil that should be regularly changed. How Often Should I Service My Differentials? Most manufacturers have different service intervals for each fluid, and most recommend having the differentials servic ... read more

Why Does My Car Rattle On Start Up?

Why Does My Car Rattle On Start Up?

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gqABdESPnFQ   Why does my car make a rattling noise when started? Rattling on cold start up is usually an indication of a timing chain issue. Timing chains synchronize the crankshaft and camshafts so they rotate at the proper time for the engine to run properly. The example vehicle we have today has 2 camshafts per cylinder head one for the intake stroke and one for the exhaust stroke totaling in four camshafts. The camshafts are connected to the crankshaft with a timing chain. There are multiple other components that are also used like timing chain tensioners and timing chain guides to help keep the chain tracking normally and remaining tight at all times. The crankshaft and camshafts sprockets are designed much like the sprockets on a chain driven bicycle with little points that fall into the chain one at a time and spin around. As the crank shaft rotates the timing chain is pulled wit ... read more

What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean?

What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean?

Vehicle preventive maintenance refers to the regular and proactive maintenance of a vehicle to ensure that it is running at its peak performance and remains in good condition. This involves inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement of parts to keep the vehicle operating smoothly and safely. The goal of preventive maintenance is to prevent costly repairs and breakdowns, maximize fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the car. What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean? Regular vehicle preventive maintenance includes a variety of tasks, such as changing the oil and oil filter, checking and topping off fluids, replacing air and fuel filters, checking and replacing spark plugs, inspecting the brakes and tires, and checking the battery and electrical system. It also involves periodic inspections of the suspension and steering components, belts and hoses, and other critical parts of the vehicle. How Does It Help? Preventive maintenance can help identify potential problems befor ... read more

Why does my car burn oil?

Why does my car burn oil?

Why does my car burn oil? Burning oil is also referred to as oil consumption and surprisingly all vehicles consume oil to some extent. It is actually normal to burn about 1 quart of oil between oil changes and most manufactures will tell you this. As a vehicle gets driven there is very slight wear and tear that happens to an engine which is also normal, however this wear and tear will eventually lead to excessive oil consumption. So what causes cars to burn oil? The most common causes for oil consumption are worn out valve seats, or worn out piston rings. When these parts wear down enough they allow oil to enter the combustion chamber and gets burned off with the air and fuel mixture. What are signs of burning oil? The best way to determine if your car is consuming too much oil is by regularly checking the oil. This method is best used by checking your oil level every time you fill your car with gas. One quart of oil between oil changes is normal, if your engine oil level ... read more