Express Car Care of Denver

What Is Fuel System Cleaning?

January 18, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

As a vehicle owner, you take on the responsibility of maintaining it to ensure it continues to run well. Routine maintenance includes a variety of things:

Filling it with gas
Changing the motor oil
Filling the reservoir with windshield washer fluid
Keeping the tires properly inflated
Replacing the tires from time to time
Replacing the brake pads
Doing a fluid check for each of the major systems

Some maintenance items become almost automatic. You understand the car needs gasoline to keep running, so you make stopping by a filling station a part of that routine.

Other maintenance items aren’t as well known.

Like fuel system cleaning.

It’s not something that’s commonly promoted through local repair shops. And yet it’s an important part of keeping your car operating well.

A quick search will show you there’s a lot of variance as to when it should be performed. One resource says fuel system cleaning should be done annually. Another thinks it should be cleaned around 45,000 miles or three years, whichever occurs first. Still another says a car can drive 60,000 miles or more before considering a fuel system cleaning. Who should you believe?

Start with your owner’s manual. Your car’s manufacturer knows best when it comes to the inner workings of your vehicle.

You can also speak with one of our mechanics. It’s our job to inspect your car thoroughly, and let you know if the fuel system needs a little TLC.

The fuel system

The fuel system provides the lifeblood to keep your car moving. If a piece of the fuel system is compromised, it won’t allow the fuel to flow properly throughout the system, putting other parts of the system at risk.

The fuel system starts with the gas tank. It’s a reservoir that holds either gasoline or diesel, depending on the car you’re driving.

The fuel lines carry fuel from the reservoir to the engine. Fuel filters are built into the system to capture tiny impurities that may flow through the lines, to ensure pure fuel makes it into the injectors for optimal performance.

Fuel pumps give the system power. They push gas through the fuel lines, past the fuel filters, and through the fuel injectors.

The fuel injectors have tiny nozzles that allow a fine spray of fuel to move into the cylinder. As this happens, the spark plug causes the spark that ignites the fuel and causes power to surge throughout the system, bringing your car to life.

The fuel injectors mimic a fine aerosol spray, similar to how a can of hairspray might work. Over time, these tiny nozzles can get clogged, which causes the spray function not to work as intended. Instead of a fine mist, it turns into harsher sprays concentrated in certain areas. It takes more gas to create the power necessary for the same action. And that starts your vehicle down the road to inefficiency.

Is fuel system cleaning necessary?

When you search online, you can find advice covering a full spectrum. Some will tell you fuel system cleaning is critical for performance. Others will tell you it isn’t necessary to keep your car running smoothly.

If you use hairspray regularly, you know that some cans can work from beginning to end without a problem. At other times, you have to work at it to keep it spraying a fine mist every time you press down on the nozzle.

The fuel system may work flawlessly … for a while. The older your vehicle is, the longer you drive it without cleaning it, the more likely it will be to start wearing down.

There isn’t a harsh rule for when you should schedule a fuel system cleaning. But just because there isn’t a steadfast rule, doesn’t mean you should ignore it either. Like other systems, paying attention to your vehicle will alert you to potential problems. If you notice signs that indicate the fuel system might be the center of the issue, a fuel system cleaning may be just what your vehicle needs.

Some of the signs you can watch for include:

Your car’s gas mileage starts decreasing without other factors at play. You’re filling up more even though your driving hasn’t changed.
Your car seems to be losing power. It doesn’t have the same drive as it once did during your normal driving routines.
Your car doesn’t always start up with the first turn of the key. It sounds a little rough during the startup phase.
You notice your car struggles to keep up with you as you accelerate.
Your engine hesitates when you step down on the accelerator to push your car into action.

Once you notice a problem, pay attention to it. Does it worsen over time? It may be time to schedule a maintenance visit, have your car inspected, and consider a fuel system cleaning to ensure it continues to work well.

The benefits of fuel system cleaning

Because it takes time for parts to wear down, when your vehicle finally needs fuel system cleaning, it’s a chance to replace older parts. Just like motor oil that breaks down and turns grimy, or tires that lose tread and put you more at risk, a fuel system cleaning ensures all parts of the fuel system are in great working condition. They make your car more efficient once again.

If one part isn’t working correctly, it adds more stress to the other parts in the system. By cleaning the system and ensuring everything is working well, you’re increasing the life of every part in the system.

An efficient fuel system means it takes in and processes gasoline as efficiently as possible. This is why it’s important to pay attention to your gas mileage. If you fill up more frequently and notice your gas mileage is waning, it’s a good sign of a problem. Fixing it will make the entire fuel system operate better, and make your vehicle more efficient.

If the system uses gas efficiently, it also reduces the emissions it releases into the air. That makes your car as clean as possible as it takes you on your daily routine. It’s better for your car, and for the planet too.

Is fuel system cleaning in your future?

How Long Should a Timing Belt Really Last

January 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When you own a car, you have some idea of what routine maintenance means. You know to watch the gas gauge because the car won’t go without gasoline. You understand that periodic oil changes are necessary to ensure your vehicle stays operational.

But for other parts on a car, it can get a little murkier. You may have heard of the timing belt before, but how long is it supposed to last? And what does it do anyway?

A timing belt is designed to ensure everything in the engine runs smoothly. It helps keep you safe while you navigate the road.

Like other parts, it’s critical to pay attention to the health of the timing belt. If a severe problem occurs while you’re driving, it can put you and those around you at risk.

What is a timing belt?

When you think of a belt, imagine something wrapping around something else. You might include a belt to accessorize your clothing as you dress for the day.

A timing belt works in much the same way. It harnesses all of the internal moving parts of the engine together. It can also power the water pump, oil pump, and injection pump.

How Long Should a Timing Belt Really Last

A timing belt is made from rubber with hard teeth that interlock with the cogwheel of the crankshaft and camshaft. It synchronizes the movement between the two, ensuring that the engine intake and exhaust valves operate correctly.

If the intake valves open too early, it can release too much fuel-air mixture into the system. This can lead to poor combustion, and limit power coming from the engine. If the exhaust valves open too early, the combustion chamber loses pressure which causes less power from the engine. If any parts operate out of sync, they risk damage as they collide.

Timing belt, timing chain, what’s the difference?

Timing belts and timing chains perform the same function. Without proper function, your engine would cease to run.

As the name suggests, the main difference between them is what they are made of. A timing chain is made from metal, whereas a timing belt is made of composite material, usually resin or rubber, and synthetic thread.

Timing chains were first developed back in the 1940s and remained the standard in vehicles into the 1960s. Reliable rubber wasn’t the norm, which made most internal parts made from metal. As time went on, rubber became more versatile and durable, which made it more practical to incorporate into a vehicle. It made the timing belt cheaper, lighter, and easier to handle.

However, rubber isn’t as durable as metal. In comparison, metal almost always outlasts rubber. This means you might be replacing rubber timing belts sooner than metal timing chains. To find out what your car has, you can check your owner’s manual for more information.

Typically, timing belts have a lifespan of around 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Timing chains are expected to last the life of the car. All of this is based on normal operating conditions.

Timing belts will be quieter than timing chains. The timing chain resembles a chain on a bicycle. It’s a sturdy metal device that will create a noticeable sound even if it’s operating correctly. That may not be a problem for some drivers, but it could be a problem if you buy a luxury car for a quiet ride. That’s where timing belts have the advantage.

While failure isn’t something that happens a lot, there is a distinct difference between the two. If a timing belt fails, it means the valves might not be properly synced, causing pistons to crash into one another. The damage can quickly rise into thousands of dollars of repair work. When a timing chain breaks, the heavy metal pieces can cause extensive damage, sometimes requiring a new engine.

For all that and more, it benefits you to pay attention to potential problems, recognize the early warning signs, and get it repaired before it fails.

Signs it’s time to replace your timing belt

Like other major parts on your vehicle, a bad timing belt will offer warning signals before failure. They can include:

Check engine light – the check engine light illuminates for many different reasons. Rather than guessing at what the problem may be, or worse, ignoring it altogether, bring your car in for a complete diagnostic test to make the necessary repairs.

Noises – a bad timing belt can make a variety of noises, depending on what’s wrong. You may notice squealing or rubbing noises as the belt makes contact with other parts. You may hear a ticking noise coming from the engine compartment. It’s similar to a roulette wheel when you spin it.

Oil – a good indicator of a bad timing belt can be with your regular oil changes. Timing chains are lubricated with motor oil. If it starts grinding against the gear, metal shavings can find their way into the oil. You’ll notice this when you change out the oil filter on your regular oil change. Timing belts have teeth on the inside that can wear down and break off. If they fall into the oil pan, they’ll clog the system. This prevents oil from circulating properly, leading to other problems such as your engine overheating.

Misfiring – both the timing belt and chain are designed to maintain precise timing within the engine. If that timing is off, your engine won’t function properly. You’ll notice the engine misfires because the valves won’t open and close as they should, or the combustion reaction isn’t calibrated correctly.

Engine won’t start – if the timing belt is broken and falls off the gears, your car won’t start. You’ll hear the starter motor engage, but the engine itself won’t turn over. The only way to deal with this situation is to tow the car in for repair.

Is your timing belt in need of repair?

Whether your vehicle operates on a timing belt or chain, if you’re reading this, you may have a problem with the way your car operates.

Before you let the condition worsen, schedule a maintenance visit today. It’s the best way to ensure you keep the repair bills to a minimum, and get your car back on the road as quickly as possible.

This Is How You Tell If Your Brake Calipers Need Replacement or Repair

January 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

The braking system is one of the most important systems on your vehicle. While you might be familiar with brake pads and brake fluid, brake calipers are a little more obscure. What are they? What do they do? And how do you maintain them throughout the life of your car?

What are brake calipers?

Owning a car means performing regular maintenance. For your braking system, the most often parts to be replaced include the brake pads.

Manufacturers recommend replacing brake pads every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. When it comes to the brake rotors, you have a bit longer. Rotors should be replaced every 60,000 to 70,000 miles to ensure your braking system remains in great shape. While not as common as motor oil, your brake fluid should still be replaced every four to five years. If you haven’t read through your owner’s manual, it’s a good thing to keep on hand.

Brake calipers also need replacing over time. Through wear and tear, they lose their ability to clamp down and relax the brake pads as you apply and release pressure.

A brake caliper is a part of the disc brake system, which is what most vehicles have on their front brakes. You can see it sitting on your wheel if you look through the spokes. The brake caliper houses the brake pads and pistons. Its sole job is to slow the car’s wheels as you press down on the brake pedal, to create friction against the brake rotors.

Inside the caliper, a powerful piston uses pressure from hydraulic fluid to press the brake pads against the brake rotor. When working properly, the calipers move effortlessly based on the amount of pressure from the brake pedal.

This Is How You Tell If Your Brake Calipers Need Replacement or Repair

When something in the system breaks, wears down, or stops altogether, that’s when you have a problem.

Brake caliper alerts – how to know when you have a problem

Like other systems on your vehicle, the braking system has all kinds of warning signals to alert you when things aren’t working correctly.

Most vehicles have sensors to art you to braking problems. The brake light on your dashboard will illuminate when the sensors detect something is wrong within the system.

The brake light could trigger if you’re low on brake fluid, or the pressure isn’t within set guidelines. It can also alert you to brake pads wearing down if the car is equipped with pad sensors. The dashboard light is designed to give you plenty of time to set up a service visit and fix the problem before it escalates.

Unfortunately, problems with the brake calipers can be a little more challenging to detect.

Where’s the brake caliper problem?

There are several ways you can identify and prevent further brake caliper breakdown.

Noises, smells, and feelings

Driving is often one of those mindless tasks you perform on autopilot. But it is a good idea to stay alert and pay attention to what your car is trying to tell you. The first problem with any system is often identified through one of your senses.

Does your car drive differently? A malfunctioning caliper can cause your vehicle to pull to one side as you drive. This is due to an unbalanced braking system. Because one caliper doesn’t provide pressure in the same manner as the other side, you’ll notice your car lurching forward, or pulling to one side as you slow and stop.

You may also hear a squealing or grinding sound. This happens when brake pads run thin, and can’t connect with the rotors efficiently. Is it the brake pad, or is it a caliper malfunctioning that caused it to wear down before its time? If you’re nearing the lifespan of your brake pads, it may be the problem. But if you still have life left on them, it may be worth further investigation.

Too much pressure on the braking system can also ramp up the heat within the system. If you notice a burning chemical smell near one of the front wheels, it may be a sign of overheating from the brake pads and the bonding agent.

Do a visual inspection

If you’ve ever boarded a plane early, and watched outside the window, chances are you’ve seen the pilot walk around doing a visual inspection. Why? He’s in charge of the plane, keeping the passengers safe, and the plane in good working condition. It’s up to him to decide if it’s okay to fly, and if he’s comfortable with the mechanics and technology he’s been given.

Driving works similarly, though most of us rarely take a walk around our vehicles before jumping in behind the wheel each time we drive. But there is something to learn from a pilot – it’s a good idea to do a visual check from time to time. Do you notice tire tread wearing unevenly? Is there liquid accumulating near the caliper or the wheel? Keep an eye on anything that looks suspicious, and bring it in for inspection at your earliest convenience.

Proper maintenance means prevention

Luckily, it won’t take much time out of your day to ensure your vehicle is working well. With an occasional visual inspection, and a moment or two paying attention to what your car is trying to tell you, you’ll be able to drive securely with the knowledge that everything is working well.

Bring in your car for regular motor oil changes. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, and your wheels are properly balanced.

Let a mechanic run through a checklist to ensure everything is working well. You can schedule this at the start of each season. Or if you’re heading out on the open road. It’s a great way to keep your security in check to ensure something bigger doesn’t happen.

Braking problems? It might be caliper issues

Your brake calipers are designed to last 100,000 miles or more. They aren’t a component that needs to be replaced often.

Being aware of potential signs of a problem will ensure your braking system continues to work well. It’s the best way to keep your passengers safe, and your vehicle operating well.

When was the last time you had your braking system inspected?

How Long Should a Car Battery Last

January 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Without a car battery, your engine wouldn’t start, and you’d be stuck where you are.

Of course, your car battery does more than start the vehicle. It also creates the power necessary for both the ignition and electrical systems. Think of your battery as your car’s lifeline. Without it, your car won’t function.

How long should a car battery last?

How a battery works

A lot of things around your home run off of battery power. From your smartphone to a smoke detector, batteries ensure you have enough power to the device to make it function.

When you turn the key in the ignition, it’s the car battery that provides the jolt of power needed to power up the electrical components in your vehicle. The car battery converts chemical energy into electrical energy, and provides enough force to send voltage to the starter. It also provides a steady stream of electrical current to stabilize this energy and keep the engine running.

That’s a lot of work for one little box underneath the hood of your car.

Depending on the make and manufacturer, a car battery is designed to last anywhere from 3 to 5 years. How long your battery will last depends on things like:

Driving habits

Short trips of 20 minutes or less can actually shorten the lifespan of your car battery. Each time you start your car, it uses battery power. When you make short trips around your community, it doesn’t give the charging system enough time to fully recharge the battery. By integrating short and longer trips throughout the day, it works to keep your car battery healthy and in good working condition.

Don’t think that leaving your car parked for extended periods of time won’t impact the battery. They naturally self-discharge over time. It’s better to disconnect the battery and remove it, or use a trickle charger designed to keep the battery at a constant charge level as it sits.

Also be wary of allowing your car battery to completely wear down through the use of electronics. Various car accessories like headlamps, interior lights, and the radio drain power from the car battery. That’s why if you forget to turn the lights off, it can impact your car starting the following day. Avoid using accessories for extended periods if you aren’t operating your car.

Weather

Here in Colorado, we can have widely changing temperatures within a short period of time. Throughout the year, your car may deal with below zero temperatures, followed by heatwaves in the triple digits in the summertime. That’s a lot for your batter to deal with.

Protecting your car battery from these extreme fluctuations will extend its life. If you have a garage, keeping your car inside during extreme weather will protect the battery from deterioration.

Maintenance

If you pop the hood and look underneath, you may discover corrosion around the battery box. Corroded batteries weaken the battery’s charge, which can impact its lifespan. You can keep corrosion at a minimum by scrubbing it with a mixture of baking soda and water, then wiping away the residue including dirt or grease.

Batteries won’t go bad overnight. By regularly testing it, you can watch how much amperage it’s putting out. We can test it when you come in for regular maintenance to ensure it’s operating well.

Is your car telling you it’s time for a new battery?

While you can give your car battery a long lifespan with proper maintenance and paying attention to your driving conditions, eventually it will wear out. It doesn’t suddenly fail without warning signs first.

Corrosion

When you see corrosion building up around the positive and negative battery terminals, it’s a sign the battery is weakening. You can clean it, but be aware it’s showing signs of age.

Slow engine crank

When your battery is working well, your car should gain power immediately upon turning the key. If it’s slow to react, that’s a sign your battery is weak.

Check engine or battery light

Today’s technology is designed to warn you of potential problems long before they cause you an issue. At the first sign of a dashboard light, bring your car in so we can use diagnostic tools to determine what’s wrong with your vehicle.

Bloated battery case

Swelling usually happens when the battery has overcharged. Heat and hydrogen gas build up faster than the battery dissipates, which can lead to the battery casing warping and expanding.

Leaks

When a car battery leaks, it can be from several things. Leaks can form through the cell caps at the top of the battery, or through damage to the battery body. Overcharging can also damage the battery, or if it is subjected to extreme cold for a length of time. This may be noticeable from the rotten egg smell it produces.

Low battery fluid

While not a regular maintenance item, your car battery can run low on fluid. As a battery recharges, electricity flows through the water as it’s converted from original gasses of hydrogen and oxygen. This can sometimes lead to water loss, which will need to be replenished to keep it in good working condition.

Age

The older your battery is, the greater chance it has of not working at its best.

If you’re not sure how old your battery is, there’s an easy way to tell. It has a creation date printed on it. This creation date is listed as a code with a letter and number. The letter corresponds to a month – A is January, B is February, and so on. The number gives you the final digit of the year – 8 would be 2018, 9 would be 2019, etc.

If your battery is more than four years old, it’s a good idea to plan on replacing it soon to avoid future issues associated with a weak battery. This gives you a chance to replace the car battery on your time rather than deal with an emergency situation somewhere away from home.

If you’re having battery problems, bring your car in and let one of our technicians test it to find out where the issue lies. We can service it as necessary, or suggest a new battery that will ensure your car’s safety.

Does Your Hybrid Vehicle Need an Oil Change?

January 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

It’s hard not to notice there are more electric and hybrid vehicles on the road now than ever before. Maybe you’re thinking of switching and investing in new hybrid technology. But what will that do to your maintenance routine? Do hybrid vehicles still need an oil change?

Before we get into maintenance, let’s dive into the statistics.

The different types of electric vehicles include:

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) – they are powered by traditional gasoline and an electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged by regenerative braking as you drive.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) – they are similar to HEVs but rely on plugging in to recharge the battery.

All-electric vehicles (EV) – these run on electricity alone.

While all-electric vehicles are growing in popularity, hybrids have been on the market longer, and continue to have higher sales. Currently over 5.4 million hybrid cars have been sold, and are on the roads all across America.

Does Your Hybrid Vehicle Need an Oil Change?

If you own one or are thinking of buying one, what does that mean for your regular maintenance routine?

Do hybrids need an oil change?

Hybrid vehicles run on both gasoline and electricity. While this increases the gas mileage, and ensures you won’t use as much gas as with more traditional cars, it still works in the same manner. A hybrid vehicle still relies on a combustible engine for part of the process, meaning you’ll still need to include oil changes as a part of your normal maintenance routine.

The good news is you can stretch out the time between visits. Just like you’ll find your gasoline goes farther, so will your motor oil. The typical hybrid manufacturer suggests you can go 10,000 miles or more between oil changes, more depending on how you drive. Check with your owner’s manual to see what your manufacturer suggests.

Keep in mind that a combustion engine will always need regular oil changes to continue to operate well. If you drive your hybrid only short distances, it may push the mileage beyond a year or more. Just like traditional vehicles, you should change the oil regularly based on mileage or age, ensuring the motor always has fresh oil to keep it working at its best.

Manufacturers will also recommend specific types of motor oil. Because a hybrid still uses a combustible engine, you can schedule an oil change like you would with a traditional car.

What about other hybrid maintenance items?

Hybrids have special needs. Because they are essentially two cars in one, it’s important to understand the different types of maintenance it will need over time.

Because it runs off a combustible engine, it will need much of the standard care, including:

Oil changes – while using a battery for some of the power will put less strain on the engine, it will still need regular oil changes.
Tires – adjustments, rotations, filling, and replacement will all be standard care for hybrids.
Filters – because it has the inner workings of a combustion engine, it will still need air filters and cabin filters as a part of your normal care routine.
Fluid refills and flushes – vehicles require many different types of fluids to stay running smoothly. To ensure levels remain constant, and you maintain and flush them for refills at the required intervals, be sure to check with your owner’s manual and work with a mechanic who can provide proper maintenance for as long as you own your vehicle.

Hybrids still use a braking system, however, they rely on regenerative brakes for full operation. As you brake, the energy is absorbed back into your battery to keep it fully charged. As a result, these brakes need special requirements to keep them working at their best. Be sure a mechanic understands the nuances and can provide you with expert care.

One of the biggest differences is with the car battery. Hybrid batteries must be powerful enough to provide as much energy as fuel gives gasoline vehicles. This means they are larger capacity than traditional car batteries, and have special needs. You can’t purchase a traditional battery and expect it to do the same job. However, hybrid batteries tend to last much longer than in a fuel-based car. Some manufacturers offer up to a 150,000 mile warranty. Just be sure to understand the nuances of the warranty, and follow the specific guidelines to ensure you don’t void it by not following the rules.

Because a hybrid vehicle runs on both fuel and electricity, you’ll find it has a complex electrical system that should be maintained over time. They are built with auto start and shut off features that help with fuel economy, and to preserve the life of the battery. The electrical system should be calibrated periodically to ensure it provides proper power within the system. Too much power or a jolt of electric current could cause serious damage to your starter or transmission.

Schedule care for your hybrid

Above all, your hybrid vehicle requires regular routine maintenance to ensure it keeps running and in good condition. Don’t wait until you have a problem. Instead, schedule regular maintenance to ensure you catch potential problems before they grow into bigger issues.

A great place to start is by giving your hybrid vehicle an oil change. Because a hybrid relies on a standard combustible engine, it uses standard motor oil built for all combustible vehicles. Just be sure to check with the manufacturer for guidelines on what oil to use.

Finding a mechanic with a routine maintenance item like an oil change is a great way to find a mechanic who treats you fairly, and gives you a chance to discover someone in your local community who you can rely on to do the job correctly.

Simple Ways To Determine If Your Brakes Have Problems

December 28, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Driving a car is an automatic function of our lives. Within weeks of purchasing it, we adjust to its sounds, noises, and movements. We expect it to work … until it doesn’t.

The more aware you are of the sounds, noises, and movements, the greater chance you have of noticing when problems occur. Solving the issue before it escalates can save you time, energy, and money. It may also save your life.

Your brake system is one of the most vital systems on your car. If your brakes fail, it can put you in a precarious situation. Luckily, your brake system has warning signs that potential problems are occurring. If you notice these early, you can fix the problem before it escalates. What should you watch for?

Watch for the brake light on your dashboard

We see it quite frequently where a driver brings their vehicle in with several dashboard icons lit. These sensors go off for a reason; don’t ignore them. They are providing you with ample warning that your vehicle no longer meets manufacturer’s guidelines.

If the brake light indicator appears on the dashboard, it’s providing you with a warning that it’s either time for a routine maintenance check, or there’s a problem within the system. An illuminated brake light could signify that your vehicle has low levels of brake fluid. If this is left unchecked for too long, it could lead to serious braking issues. Low fluid impacts stopping distance, and could impact how the brake pads wear.

Simple Ways To Determine If Your Brakes Have Problems

Schedule your appointment soon to avoid bigger problems.

Listen for squealing or squeaking noises

Cars make a lot of noise throughout your drive. You can easily pick up on noises as they change over time if you stay fully aware. New noises coming from your brakes aren’t always a bad thing, but they might be indicators of a potential problem.

How long do they last? Do you hear the noise over and over again? Sometimes a rock or debris can impact sound. But as it leaves the system, your car should return to normal.

Brake pads are built with wear indicators that produce a squealing noise. This high-pitched sound will continue to build the more you drive. This ensures you can’t ignore it. You’ll notice it every time you step on the brakes.

Watch for problems with anti-lock brakes

Most modern day cars come with anti-lock braking systems that offer a key safety component to help your drive. ABS is designed to help prevent your brakes from locking up during emergency situations. It also helps your tires from losing traction on icy or slippery roads when you step on the brakes.

In most cases, if your anti-lock brakes have a problem, you’ll see an icon on your dashboard illuminate. Problems can range from a damaged ABS tone ring to a faulty speed sensor. The best way to determine where the problem lies is to bring it in for a diagnostic test to see what’s triggering the warning light.

Notice brakes get spongy to the touch

When you first get your vehicle, your brakes respond immediately to your touch. As brakes wear down, it takes more pressure to achieve the same results. As you press down on the brake pedal, it moves closer to the floor, and it takes on a somewhat spongy feel. Causes can include:

Air in the brake line. This is often caused by a brake fluid leak or if the brake fluid is low.
Damage to the brake line. If you’ve been in a car crash, or your car was damaged in any way, it could have impacted the brake line. Age can also impact it, allowing the line to become brittle, cracked, or rusted out
Low brake fluid. If there is a leak in the system, brake fluid might not be at the recommended level.
Master cylinder issues. The master cylinder controls brake fluid levels. If it isn’t working correctly, it isn’t sending brake fluid in the quantity needed. It will be more difficult to brake as you’re driving.

You notice a shake or vibration when steering

If the steering wheel shakes or vibrates when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Common problems include:

Worn brake pads. Any time the brake pads reach end of life, it can impact the way your car drives. When the pads can no longer grip the rotors as intended, it can cause the steering wheel to shake.
Warped rotors. When applying the brakes, the brake pads connect with the rotors to stop the wheels from spinning. Over time, the rotor can wear down. If it does so unevenly, it can impact the brake friction when you apply the brakes. This is why it’s important to fix the brake pads quickly, as they are less expensive and easier to repair than the rotor.

You notice a burning smell

If the brakes get too hot, they can leave off a sharp, chemical odor. If you notice this coming back from a day of skiing, for example, it’s best to pull over and let your brakes cool before driving again. Double check the parking brake to ensure it’s not engaged. If there’s smoke coming from the wheel, it may be a caliper that is malfunctioning. If you aren’t sure, your safest bet is to have your car towed. It keeps you safe and ensures further damage isn’t caused to your brake system.

Your car pulls to the left or right

While this can be caused by a variety of problems, it might be from a problem with your brake system. If it’s caused by the front brakes, one brake may be working while the other is not. That will cause your car to handle differently as you apply the brake, with your car moving right or left depending on which brake isn’t working. Any time you notice your car not driving in a straight line, it’s time to have an inspection to ensure it’s working correctly.

Don’t ignore problems with your brakes

Even the smallest issues can cause your brakes to fail. Any warning sign is designed to give you a chance to bring your car in for inspection before you have more serious problems.

Schedule your appointment today.

What To Know About Your Car’s Spark Plugs

December 21, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

One of the most powerful parts inside your vehicle are the spark plugs. They are instrumental in powering up your car. Think of them as little bolts of electricity. Without them, your vehicle simply won’t go.

If you look up the definition of spark plug in the dictionary, it states:

A device for firing the explosive mixture in an internal combustion engine

When engaged, it ignites a mixture of compressed fuel and air with an electric spark, while containing the combustion pressure within the engine compartment itself. This gives your vehicle what it needs to power up.

As you can imagine, spark plugs withstand intense heat and pressure. They are built to burn off buildups and other contaminants as it repeats this process every time you start your car.

If you have an internal combustion vehicle, your car won’t start without spark plugs in place. Their health determines how well your engine will perform as you start your car and drive. Over time, a weak or compromised spark plug can lead to a variety of problems, from issues with starting to misfiring as you drive. Without healthy spark plugs, your vehicle won’t perform well, meaning your fuel economy will be compromised.

Different types of spark plugs

While there are some models that don’t use spark plugs, most modern-day vehicles need them to produce power. Without a spark, your car won’t go. Engine performance is directly related to how healthy your spark plugs are.

Your engine needs at least one spark plug per cylinder. So, if you have a four-cylinder car, it will operate using four spark plugs.

What To Know About Your Car’s Spark Plugs

Different vehicles need different spark plugs. They are not a “one size fits all” part. Certain spark plugs are more efficient, or perform better than others. Your car was built with certain characteristics in mind. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check with your owner’s manual before routine maintenance.

All spark plugs have a small central and side electrode to generate the necessary voltage. Overall, there are four main types of spark plugs:

Copper
Iridium
Platinum
Double platinum

Copper spark plugs use a nickel alloy electrode that is soft and not very durable. They don’t last very long, require more voltage, and are better suited for older vehicles built before 1980.

Iridium spark plugs tend to last the longest. They have a small center electrode which means it needs the least amount of voltage to produce results. If your vehicle currently uses iridium spark plugs, never downgrade to other materials as it will diminish performance. They are the most expensive of the four types of spark plugs.

Platinum spark plugs are similar to copper, except with a platinum disk in place of the nickel alloy electrode. This makes them more durable than copper spark plugs. While not the strongest on the market, they are often recommended for newer cars that use an electronic distributor ignition.

Double platinum spark plugs are reliable if your distributor ignition system is a waste spark system. This causes the spark plug to fire twice, once for the compression cylinder, the other in the exhaust cylinder. This produces more reliability in rainy or damp environments.

How spark plugs wear out

Spark plugs aren’t something that wears out quickly. You won’t be replacing them frequently, like you do an air filter during an oil change.

By the time spark plugs reach end-of-life, they’ve been through thousands of starts and stops, withstanding extreme temperatures and a wide variety of conditions. When your vehicle was designed, manufacturers installed specific spark plugs with duration in mind. When it’s time to replace your current spark plugs, sticking to the guidelines will continue durability for years to come.

Spark plugs won’t last forever. Over time, it can cause:

Deposit buildup – every time spark plugs ignite, the air-fuel mixture can leave behind trace materials. This continues to build, which can lead to pre-ignition of the fuel. If you ever find your vehicle jerking, it could be an unreliable air-fuel mixture.

Expanding gap – as a spark plug ignites, it travels over a gap of space to provide the correct level of combustion. As the spark plug ages, this gap can widen. When it’s too far apart for proper combustion, starting will be ineffective.

What will new spark plugs do for your vehicle?

Your vehicle won’t start without working spark plugs in place. When you start to notice problems with the starting process, a mechanic can inspect your vehicle and pinpoint the issue. If the spark plugs are worn, replacing them will give you:

Better performance – fully functioning spark plugs provide better combustion. If you are having any performance issues, it may be your spark plugs.
Better fuel economy – every time spark plugs misfire, it can impact fuel efficiency.
Smoother starts – it’s sometimes difficult to realize just how worn down your vehicle’s spark plugs are. When you replace them and experience the instantaneous start, you can recognize just how jerky bad spark plugs can make the ignition process. Replacing them on schedule can give you a smoother ride longer.
Lower emissions – regular tune ups and spark plug replacement can reduce the amount of emissions your vehicle releases into the environment.

When spark plugs need replacing

Like any part on your vehicle, spark plugs give off signs to warn you it’s time for replacement. You may notice:

Rattling or knocking noises – when pistons and combustion aren’t working properly, you’ll hear it in the interaction. If the spark plug fires and the piston doesn’t move accordingly, you’ll hear rattling or knocking noises.
Hard start – when you turn the key and your car doesn’t pop right off, you may feel jerkiness or erratic performance. Those misfires are your warning sign.
Low performance – spark plugs continue to fire as you accelerate and change gears. If it feels sluggish throughout this process, it could be a sign of needing new spark plugs.
Poor fuel economy – pay attention at the pump. If your gas mileage decreases, it’s a sign something is wrong with performance. Old spark plugs reduce economy as the vehicle fails to receive the right spark, meaning it works harder to produce the same results.

If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, your first line of defense is to stop by for a full inspection. We can find the issue, and provide you with choices to prevent future problems while giving your better performance at the same time.

Having Steering Problems? It’s Probably One Of These Things

December 18, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Power steering is something most drivers take for granted. Until they have steering problems.

Modern vehicles all use power steering to make driving easier. If you’re under the age of 40, chances are you’ve never driven anything without power steering. Cars today use a hydraulic power steering pump that provides help while you steer.

Go back in time to when cars entered the marketplace. Cars were built so the driver controlled the moving process. When a driver wanted to turn right or left, they would have to crank the steering wheel and physically adjust the wheels to get the car to move in their desired direction. That required physical strength that some people had trouble with. Inventors set out on a course to make the process easier. By the 1960s, power steering was an option for most vehicles, with it becoming standard by the 1970s.

Of course, a lot has changed over the years.

How power steering works

Today’s vehicles use power steering to respond to even the smallest of adjustments you make. That makes it easier to control, and easier to stay in the lane as you drive, no matter what your speed.

Power steering systems use either an electric or hydraulic device to turn and steer the wheels.

Hydraulic power steering uses hydraulic fluid to amplify the action of turning the wheels. Hydraulic fluid is pressurized by a pump driven by the engine, which provides hydraulic pressure for the steering system. As you turn the steering wheel, hydraulic pressure is applied to the steering gear, which makes it easy for the wheels to turn.

Having Steering Problems? It’s Probably One Of These Things

Electric power steering uses an electric motor that draws energy from the electrical system to provide steering ability. As a driver adjusts the steering wheel, sensors detect movement. This data is fed into a computer system which evaluates how much assistance to apply. The biggest benefit of an electric power steering system over a hydraulic system is better adaptation to specific driving conditions.

Electronic power steering, also known as EPS, is growing in popularity because of the performance improvements. Electric steering can give the driver the option to switch between different driving conditions for a different experience in driving. Comfort, standard, sport – you’ll find these steering systems and more depending on the make and model you drive.

Common power steering problems

Today’s vehicles have over 10,000 parts. Two main power components with the steering system include the pump, and the rack and pinion unit. It also includes a variety of hoses and connectors to ensure the system works well. If there is an issue with any of these parts, you won’t get assistance as you turn the steering wheel, making it difficult at best. That can put you in danger as you respond to actions out on the road. In general, five things may be wrong with your vehicle if you’re having trouble turning the steering wheel.

Low power steering fluid

One of the most common reasons for decreasing power in the steering wheel is low power steering fluid within the system. This usually occurs when the fluid is leaking from the pressurized hoses. If the hose is cracked or wiggles loose, it can cause the fluid to leak out. This fluid is required to keep the entire system well lubricated. If there isn’t hydraulic fluid within the system, the steering wheel gets more difficult to turn. You might be able to drive it, but it is a sign of a problem within the system. Eventually the steering pump will fail, and replacement is a lot more expensive than adding in new power steering fluid.

Bad power steering fluid

Parts and systems today are designed for years of use. But that doesn’t prevent fluids from getting old and stopping working. Even if hoses and joints are still in good shape, holding power steering fluid inside, the fluid itself can become thick and corroded over time. If it’s too thick to lubricate the system, you’ll notice it in a steering wheel that doesn’t move properly. You can check if your power steering fluid is thick and dark. That’s a sign it needs flushing and replacement as soon as possible.

Broken serpentine belt

Another common problem is an issue with the serpentine belt. If the serpentine belt is damaged or cracked, you’ll feel stiffness in the way the steering wheel turns. This belt is in constant action as you drive and make adjustments according to road conditions. It can wear down fairly quickly, especially here in Colorado where we face weather extremes throughout the year. If this is the problem, the belt will become looser as you drive. If it breaks, you won’t be able to drive the car at all. Heed to the warning of a problematic steering wheel to avoid bigger repair bills if it fails.

Bad steering rack

The steering rack contains the rack and pinion. Different joints and shafts are responsible for keeping the steering rack attached to the steering wheel. As this rack wears down or is damaged, it will prevent you from steering your vehicle properly. You’ll know when the steering rack is going bad when you notice the wheel is tight only from a cold start. Once it warms up, the lubricant warms up and the steering action improves. It may loosen up as you drive, but the potential for problems is still there.

Power steering pump failure

The power steering pump is what produces the right amount of pressure to allow you to move the steering wheel freely. If this pump no longer works correctly, it becomes more difficult to turn and control the steering wheel. As it wears down, you’ll be required to put more force into the act of turning the wheel. The heavier the vehicle, the harder it will be to complete this action. Bringing it in early means we can check for loose connections or other potential problems before determining if you need a new power steering pump.

Do you have power steering problems? If you see yourself in any of the conditions above, it might be a problem with your power steering system. Bring your vehicle in today and we’ll inspect it and pinpoint the issue.

Stay safe!

Have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems? Pay Attention To The Alignment

December 14, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

If you’ve hopped behind the wheel of a new car lately, you know a lot of the driving is now done for you. Adaptive cruise control, lane change assistance, collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring – each of these advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) is designed to make your job a little easier, keeping you and your passengers safer in the process.

To ensure each of these systems works properly, sensors are placed in different regions of your vehicle. With ADAS, every sensor is needed to ensure accurate decisions are made as to how your car moves. If a wheel is out of alignment, or a misdirected sensor, it won’t provide proper input. This can lead to poor performance, or even emergency situations.

Cars have changed so much in the last few years that many dealerships offer driving assistance programs to help you understand these advanced driver assistance systems more intimately before you take the vehicle home. At the very least, you should become familiar with your owner’s manual. It’ll help you become more familiar with the individual systems, and understand the maintenance routine necessary to keep everything working well.

Getting to know your advanced driver assistance systems better

Almost all accidents on the road today are caused by human error. The role of ADAS is to prevent accidents and reduce the impact of those that occur. That’s why you’ll find ADAS applications like:

Automatic emergency braking
Blindspot detection
Lane departure correction and warning
Parking assistance
Traffic sign recognition

Each of these systems is designed applications using interface standards while running vision-based algorithms, relying on individual sensor functions and real-time multimedia. Each autonomous application uses a chip that connects with sensors placed around the vehicle. These sensors take in a large amount of data with the help of image software, sensors, lidar, and radar. It responds to unique situations faster than any human could process.

Have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems? Pay Attention To The Alignment

If you drive a car with ADAS, you know how easy it is to rely on your vehicle performing specific functions. Studies show that in the first month, drivers are fully engaged as they adjust to self-help cars. That slowly wanes as it becomes the new norm for driving. And that’s where you can miss what’s happening to your vehicle over time.

How wheel alignment changes with ADAS

A wheel alignment is a regular routine maintenance item for your vehicle. Like oil changes and checking tire pressure, a wheel alignment ensures your tires safely connect to the road, and keep you pointed in the direction you want to go.

Wheel alignments today are computerized processes where a mechanic aligns all four wheels to ensure your car drives straight. It’s done by adjusting three separate angles of each wheel known as camber, caster, and toe.

These aren’t large adjustments; they are often so small you would have difficulty noticing a change in the tire. That’s because computerized analysis can inspect every aspect of alignment and make micro changes that you and I might overlook. It can bring back your wheel alignment to what the manufacturer suggests.

Improper wheel alignment will wear your vehicle’s tires down faster, and decrease safety while you’re driving. If the wheels aren’t properly connected to the road, you run the risk of having your car steer out of control.

This is why ADAS can help. It also adds more complex nuances to a car’s driving and braking systems.

With a standard wheel alignment, the alignment process involves specialized computer equipment to determine how well the system functions. ADAS takes that to another level. With even more specialized and fine-tuned sensors, the controls for things like steering, brakes, and cruise control all need a higher level of adjustment, referred to as a Safety Systems Alignment.

This alignment starts by adjusting the three angles of the tires. It goes further by calibrating the ADAS cameras, sensors, and radar to ensure complete control of the vehicle. These functions rely on proper alignment of the vehicle to ensure it can be controlled in the manner it was programmed.

For example, one of the most visible systems drivers use is the rear camera system. It tracks the wheel angle to show where your car is traveling in reverse. If this camera isn’t aligned properly or the steering wheel is out of alignment, it can impact what the camera show, which turns the process into a hazardous situation.

To receive a Safety Systems Alignment, it requires:

State of the art equipment – these computers are designed exclusively to monitor cameras and sensors with precision. The slightest error in camera angle could impact the safety of the drive.
Highly skilled technicians – this isn’t a process you can perform on your own. It requires a skilled mechanic who understands how to calibrate every sensor and camera system your vehicle may have.
Extra time – to perform a complete inspection takes time. We have to ensure your tires are properly aligned, as well as ensure your entire safety system meets guidelines.

Do you need an ADAS alignment?

If your vehicle relies on ADAS for any of its safety features, you’ll need a safety systems alignment from time to time.

There are several symptoms that suggest it’s time for a wheel alignment:

You notice your tire is wearing unevenly from tire to tire.
The steering wheel is crooked as you drive straight.
You hear noise as you are steering.
The car pulls to the right or left as you drive.
You hear a squealing noise from the tires.
You install new tires.

ADAS problems don’t show up in the same way. Your wheels may appear to be driving straight, but the sensors aren’t registering it that way. That’s why it’s imperative to bring your vehicle in for regular alignment maintenance to ensure they are operating correctly.

To ensure all of your ADAS features are working properly, schedule a safety systems alignment along with your other routine maintenance. Schedule yours today.

When Your Car Won’t Start, This May Be The Problem

December 10, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Nothing can bring on a feeling of dread quite like a starter problem with your car.

You hop into your vehicle expecting to go to work. Or you fall in after a long day of playing, ready to head home for the night. You turn the key or press the button and … nothing. The car won’t start.

Now what?

How a starter works

When you turn the key in your car’s ignition, the engine turns over. This may seem like an easy, instantaneous process, but it actually relies on several actions to take place.

When you turn the ignition, it engages the engine and allows it to suck in air and fuel.

On the engine itself is a flywheel with a ring gear at the edge. It’s fitted onto a crankshaft. A pinion on the starter is designed to fit within the grooves of this ring gear.

When Your Car Won’t Start, This May Be The Problem

When you turn the ignition, an electromagnet inside the compartment engages and pushes a rod with the pinion attached. The pinion connects with the flywheel and the starter motor engages. This spins to turn the engine, sucking in both air and fuel.

Once the engine is operating, the starter motor disengages, the electromagnet stops, and the rod retracts. This prevents damage from occurring to the starter system.

Over a period of time, any part of this system can begin to wear down. The two most common parts to tail include:

The solenoid – this sends an electrical signal to the starter to activate the action
The starter motor itself

When either of these occur, the starter will no longer engage, meaning your car won’t start. Until repair or replacement, you’ll be stuck.

Luckily, these parts rarely cease without warning. When the starter begins to wear down, it will give off signals alerting you to potential problems.

Warning signs your starter is wearing out

Like any other mechanical device on your car, the starter won’t stop working without warning signs appearing first. Here are a few indicators you can watch for to help you determine if you have a problem with your starter.

The engine won’t turn over

One of the most common indicators of a potential problem with your starter is when you turn the key in the ignition and nothing happens. This can be caused by the solenoid or motor burning out. It may also be a problem with your battery; one of our mechanics can test the system and see where your problem lies.

Starter engages but the motor doesn’t spin

There are times when you turn the key in the ignition, and you hear a clicking sound as the starter tries to activate. No matter how many times you turn the key, the motor won’t turn over. This is usually caused by a problem with the gears on the flywheel. The gear may be stripped, or it’s separated from the flywheel. If this is the case, the starter will need to be replaced.

The engine turns over intermittently

This can be a trickier issue than the other two. Your car starts fine, and then it doesn’t. This can be a minor problem anywhere within the system.

A loose or dirty wire
An electrical component that’s burnt out
A gear starting to slip

When you start to see patterns in the behavior of your vehicle, the situation will only get worse over time. Before it leaves you stranded, take your car in for an inspection to pinpoint the problem early, and possibly reduce the pricetag of your repair bill.

You hear a grinding noise when you turn the key

Instead of a clicking noise, the sound might be deeper. This warning sign occurs when the gears connecting the flywheel to the starter wear down, or the parts within the starter motor wear out. Any noise originating in the starting process should be checked out to ensure it doesn’t leave you stranded.

See or smell smoke when starting the motor

The starter process is mechanical, relying on the electrical system to make it all work. If any portion of this process isn’t working correctly, it can cause the starter to overheat. This may produce smoke or a burning smell coming up from underneath the engine. It could be caused by a variety of things, including a blown fuse or a problem with the ignition switch. A mechanic will be able to evaluate it and get to the root cause.

The starter continues to run after the engine is working

Whether you turn the key or press the button, once you hear the engine engage, you release the key or pull your finger away, ready to put the car into gear and drive away. The starter process disengages until it’s needed again. Unless it doesn’t. If you hear the starter continue to work after release, you have a problem somewhere in your system’s electrical circuitry. It can lead to damage elsewhere in your system if you continue to drive without fixing it.

What happens if you don’t fix a starter at the first sign of trouble?

If your car won’t start, there’s little you can do. You’ll have to have your car towed and fix the problem before driving it once again. But if you experience a warning sign of starter trouble, you have time to resolve the issue before it worsens. Continued driving with a starter problem can lead to:

Dim lighting
Battery problems
Electrical system damage
Transmission damage
Engine damage
Vehicle refusing to start

Minor repairs can sometimes be fixed quickly and at a lower cost to you. The more your car goes unchecked, the more damage can occur, and the more your repair bill will increase. Taking early steps can often keep the problem to a minimum.

Take your vehicle in early, and we can help identify where the problem originates. The root cause of any starter problem is most likely the starter motor, starter relay, or solenoid. This involves straightforward repairs, and your car will be back and ready for you to drive in no time.