Obey Your Check Engine Light

Whenever your “Check Engine” or “Check” light comes on while you’re driving, you need to pay attention to it immediately. It doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something drastically wrong with your car, but that IS a possibility. One thing is for sure…nobody likes seeing this light on their dash.

What Happened?
The check engine light can come on for many reasons. For example, something as simple as a loose gas cap can trigger it. Other major problems, such as failed internal engine components, can turn on the light, as well. What it means is that a sensor has told the ECM (Engine Control Module) that something is out of specification and needs attention to prevent further damage. In order to really know what it is wrong with your car, it’s best to have a professional diagnose the issue.
Why Did It Turn On?
Your car’s computer will illuminate the warning whenever it detects a problem with the powertrain (engine, transmission, and other related components) that could increase tailpipe emissions, operating temperature, or any other “out of spec” event. Sometimes you will notice your engine performing quite differently when the light goes on; other times, you may notice no change at all. No matter how your vehicle performs, though, after that light goes on, it needs immediate attention to read the saved diagnostic codes.
Why Is It Flashing?
Both a solid and flashing engine check light indicates that a problem has been detected. However, a flashing engine check light indicates that it is a serious problem that requires your immediate attention. In some vehicles, instead of flashing, the light will change color from yellow to orange or red. If you see a flashing light, or if it changes color, it’s best to contact us soon as possible to prevent serious damage.
What Are The Typical Reasons It Comes On?
Mechanical Engine Issues – There’s a multitude of sensors monitoring your engine’s emissions, and anytime a component causes emission data to go out of specification, a light will be triggered. At first, your engine might run a little rough, but as time goes on this can become critical.
Transmission Issues - Part of the powertrain, the transmission works closely with the engine to move power to the wheels. If the ECM detects a problem with power delivery that brings emissions out of spec, the light goes on.
Other Modules and Sensors – There are a wide variety of body modules, electronic sensors and other devices that work together over a vast network to keep emissions in check. If one of them begins to fail, you’ll see it on the dash.
Ignition System Issues – This is the SPARK that each cylinder needs to burn the fuel to produce power. If it fails to fire at the exact right moment, it will influence the emissions and trigger a light. If this is the source of a light, your vehicle will likely run rough, and continue to get worse.
Air/Fuel Ratio – Anytime the computer can sense the improper air/fuel ratio, the light will go on. When this happens, you might notice a slight miss, or loss of performance.
What To Do When The Light Appears
You won’t know what the check engine light truly means until you have your car diagnosed by a professional. The warning could indicate something simple and harmless – or something serious that could cause further damage to your vehicle.
If your engine light turns on, you may want to try tightening the gas cap, as firmly tightening the cap could solve the problem. If the light turns off, there’s no need to get your car serviced. If the light is still on, it could indicate a more serious problem with your vehicle. Don’t risk a serious breakdown that could cost you thousands of dollars. If your check engine light is on, have a professional diagnose and repair the issue right away.

For more information please call Central Auto Repair and Electric.

Tune Up Your Vehicle For Maximum Performance

Fifty years ago, vehicles needed a “tune-up” about every 25,000 to 40,000 miles. Electrical systems were very simple back then, but they had many parts that would wear out very quickly. It was not uncommon to have to replace the distributor cap and rotor, points and condenser, all spark plugs and in some cases all of the ignition wires. Additionally, this was also a good time to replace the air filter, possibly the fuel filter, and clean and adjust the carburetor.

Today, with the help of modern electronics, tune ups don’t require anywhere near as much time, or as many parts, to run as good as new again. Even better, most owner’s manuals today recommend as much as 100,000 miles before you need to replace the spark plugs!

Today’s Tune Ups

For maximum performance today, a technician will give your entire vehicle an overall inspection. This can include plugging your vehicle into a diagnostic analyzer, as well as a visual inspection. Your tech will be looking for any component that might be dirty, leaking, or making any unusual noises. Of course, if the “Check Engine” light is on, that issue needs to be repaired before starting any other performance enhancing tuning.
Maintenance items are now inspected, and replaced as necessary. These might include the air filter, fuel filter, pcv valve, and possibly some or all spark plugs. Your tech will also clean the fuel injection system, followed by making sure all engine and chassis fluids are clean and full. Typically, the final item is to make sure all tire pressures are on the mark.

Benefits of Tune Up Maintenance

• More Efficiency – When running smoothly, your vehicle is more efficient. It will use less fuel, and doesn’t have to work so hard to get where you need to go. This saves you money, and can also save you time!


• More Power - By completing your tune up, parts that were working at less than 100% efficiency are replaced with new parts that have it operating like new (or better)!


• Efficiency – Since a full inspection is completed on the vehicle, marginal and worn-out parts are replaced, and adjustments are made on other components. Future maintenance needs are noted, and breakdowns are averted because service and replacements have been made before those items could break.


• $avings – Your tech will catch small problems, before they can become larger issues with more expense. Running efficiency is at maximum, so you’re also saving on fuel. You’re also extending the life of your vehicle, so there’s no need to replace it just yet.

Get your vehicle in maximum performance today. You’ll be glad you called us, and your vehicle will run at its very best!

For more information please call Central Auto Repair and Electric.

For many consumers, taking their vehicle in for service or repair can cause anxiety and lead them to postpone necessary maintenance and repairs. Neglecting routine service can cause more expensive repairs later. Our no-nonsense blog here provides tips and advice for motorists who need help finding and working with an auto service and repair shop. It is a must-see for everyone who owns or operates a vehicle.

• Find a reliable shop who will tell you the upfront truth.
• Find a reliable shop that explains the problems with your vehicle, in a way that you understand them.
• Find a shop that reminds you to stay on a regular maintenance schedule.

We understand how important it is to change your oil on a regular basis, and we care about our customers. We want to keep you on a routine maintenance schedule, because it will help you avoid costly surprise repairs in the future. Make sure to ask us any questions that come to mind, as we believe there are no silly questions. Our team is committed to providing you with service excellence in every aspect, so you can put your trust in us.

For more information please call Central Auto Repair and Electric .

We believe a well maintained vehicle runs better, lasts longer, has a higher resale value, and saves you money in the long run. Studies show that $1 spent on maintaining your vehicle will save between $17 and $22 on unnecessary repairs and replacement costs.

For more information please call Central Auto Repair and Electric at (316) 943-5283 .

Your shock absorbers (or struts on most vehicles today) have a primary function: To help you maintain control of your vehicle. And even though you think of them as the reason your vehicle rides so nicely over bumps, it’s actually working hard to keep the suspension and steering controllable by the driver. If worn or damaged, control will be compromised, and the ride will be uncomfortable.

Some telltale signs of worn or failing shocks and struts

UNSTEADY STEERING OR WANDERING
If your vehicle feels like it is sliding around or feels like you have a heavy crosswind when you don’t…it’s likely that your shocks or struts are doing very little to control the car. It’s most noticeable if you find yourself constantly correcting your direction, or over-correcting in what should be a straight line of travel. These are dangerous symptoms and the shocks should be replaced as soon as possible.

UNEVEN TIRE WEAR
On failing shocks or struts, your tires will become “patchy” and uneven. This is because they are not making full flat contact with the road. This has the potential to increase the risk of hydroplaning, and can also lead to thin or weak spots that can result in an unforeseen loss of pressure.

LOSS OF CONTROL WHEN BRAKING
If the front end of your vehicle dips forcefully under braking, or swerves to one side the struts are the likely culprit. This can be very dangerous in wet weather; it’s imperative to bring this behavior to a halt!

SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL
Over even the smallest bumps, or perhaps a train track crossing, your vehicle shakes and bounces like you’re in an earthquake! The shocks aren’t doing their job, as they are moving up and down rapidly with no damping, feeling every impact and sending that impact to other parts of the steering and suspension. Over a period of time, this can do severe damage to other steering and suspension components, and also result in the creation of many rattles and loose parts all over your car.

LONG DISTANCE STOPPING
You need your brakes to do what you expect when you press down on the pedal. With worn shocks or struts, your stopping distance can increase by up to 20%, making your vehicle extremely unsafe to operate! Your vehicle needs an inspection NOW.

Shocks and struts will wear out over time, so none of these symptoms will appear overnight.  Just as soon as you experience even one of these signs of wear, get your vehicle into us at your earliest convenience. To delay could result in damage to other components, broken mounts or bushings, or even loss of control or an accident resulting in serious injury or worse. Get the vehicle inspected and repaired so it’s once again safe and comfortable.

We take care of our vehicles by keeping them clean and by providing the regular maintenance they need. As much as we do, however, we typically neglect one area that needs regular cleaning, but doesn’t get it. I’m talking about the underside of your car.

When new, the underside of your car is shiny, just like the outside. But over time and many miles, the dust, dirt and road debris will cling onto every item under your car. And in the wet Winter months, more mud, snow, even sticks can accumulate under your car, becoming lodged in moving parts and causing rust to untreated surfaces. Without removal, these items can age your car prematurely, from the inside out! They can also hide or damage areas of your car that technicians must access as part of needed maintenance.

Many car washes today will spray off the bottom of your car as part of the wash process. If you take your car to one of those self-service “wand” washes, stay a minute longer and point it at the underside to clean loose debris and dirt.

A few minutes like this can make a big difference to the way your car ages, and to the technicians who work on your vehicle. It only takes a few minutes, but the benefits will extend the service life of your car.

Follow this check-list for safe driving!

1. Check lights and wipers for visibility. With shorter days and inclement weather ahead, make sure lights and wipers function properly so that you can see and be seen.  Check the exterior and interior lights and replace any that are dimming, rapidly blinking or not functioning. Check wiper blades for signs of wear and replace if necessary.
2. Check tires for under inflation or excessive wear. Check tire pressure and refill underinflated tires, including the spare, and look for uneven wear and check tread depth. An easy way to do the latter is by placing a penny head-down in the tread groove. If the tread does not cover Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
3. Consider a back-up detection device. Consider having a back-up detection device installed that provides rearview video or warning sounds when moving in reverse. While drivers should not rely solely on these devices, they can help to reduce the risk of backover incidents along with following other prevention tips from NHTSA.
4. Get an annual brake inspection. The braking system is your car’s most important safety feature. Before carpool season gets in full swing, make sure that your brakes are functioning properly. Schedule a brake inspection and look for warning signs that your vehicle may need brake services, such as an illuminated brake light or screeching, grinding or clicking noises when applying the brakes.
5. Make sure everyone is buckled up. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website has important tips on seat belt fit and position. For the younger ones riding along, the site has information about how to install car seats as well as guidelines on selecting a car seat or booster based on your child’s age and size.

Scheduling a complete vehicle inspection is time well spent. Call Central Auto Repair and Electric today to make sure your car is ready to go for your next trip.