Express Car Care of Denver

A Checklist To Help Keep Your Pickup Truck Running Well

January 18, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

In today’s society, most of us can’t imagine life without a vehicle. But for many of us, a vehicle is simply a way to get around. Sure, we buy something we like. We may choose a color we love, get a few accessories we think we can’t live without. But it doesn’t become a part of who we are.

Pickup trucks are a different story. If you have someone in your life who loves their pickup truck, you know this to be true. It’s not just a vehicle, it’s a part of their identity – almost a part of the family. They can’t imagine life without a pickup truck in their lives.

A recent article in MotorBiscuit said it best:

Americans own pickups because they are the ultimate union between the things we love most: utility and freedom. You can race or “mud” your pickup. You can start your own business or move your entire home with a full bed and a trailer hitch. Heck, you can pitch a tent in the bed and go truck-camping. Pickup trucks embody the American dream.

Are you a pickup truck owner? Chances are you see yourself with your truck for a very long time. In order to do that, maintenance will be key. But what do you do to keep your pickup truck running well year after year? Luckily we have a checklist for you. Follow these simple guidelines and your pickup truck will be part of your family for years.

Routine oil changes

Oil changes are an important part of any car maintenance routine, but especially for a vehicle you hope to keep for years to come. While you may use your car simply to run around town running errands and bringing the kids to daily activities, your truck may do a variety of different things during the day. Drop the kids off at school, pick up a load of lumber, head out on dirt roads to camp for the night – it can experience a variety of road conditions all in the course of a few hours. Because of this variance, you should ensure the oil is changed frequently to keep all working parts operating correctly. Heavy hauling can deteriorate certain parts quicker than normal driving conditions. Error on the side of getting the oil changed on a frequent schedule.

Battery health

Colorado weather can be considered harsh. It’s a place where it’s not unusual to have multiple days below zero in the winter, and just as many days above one-hundred in the summer. Summer heat and winter cold can take its toll on any vehicle, but especially on a pickup truck that works hard in each season. The inbetween seasons are a great time to check your battery’s health. The best way to check it is by using professional test equipment. With just a quick check, we can help determine how well it’s operating, and give you a chance to install a new one before it leaves you stranded on the side of the road. That’s a big deal if you’re miles away from a mechanic.

Inspect your tires

While your pickup truck won’t survive harsh driving conditions without a proper oil change or a healthy battery, it also won’t do well with poor tire conditions. Tire pressure can drop substantially as the temperatures fall, causing all kinds of handling issues. If your truck can’t gain proper traction, it can put you and everyone around you at risk. In order to to ensure your truck operates correctly under all sorts of conditions, check the tire pressure of all tires, as well as your spare, to ensure they are properly inflated. You can also conduct the penny test to ensure proper tread. Place a penny in the tread of each tire so that Lincoln’s head is facing you. If his hair isn’t covered, it’s time to replace a worn tire. Remember, tires can wear at different levels, so it’s important to test each tire periodically.

Pay attention to visibility

With all that your truck goes through each day, visibility factors can be impacted along the way. While you might wear a dirty truck as a badge of honor, it can impede how well your truck lights up on a dark night. Be sure your lights are working well and that they aren’t caked with dirt, or not working at all. Clean out any grime or insects from the lenses to ensure you have proper lighting control. You should also ensure your heater and defroster are in good working condition. While you may be okay in a cold cab, it’s not okay if your windows fog up and put you and others in jeopardy. Replace worn windshield wiper blades regularly and ensure they work well.

Keeping your pickup clean

While a dirt-covered pickup truck may symbolize all you do with your truck, it can also wreak havoc on various parts and systems in the process. Dirt and dust particles can cause small scratches in the finish. The finish is a protection system to keep water, dirt and debris from penetrating in and causing harm. Removing these particulates will keep this protection in place. An occasional wax job will also create a protective barrier between the harsh sun rays we receive year-round here in Colorado. Think of it as sunscreen for your pickup. You should also pay attention to the undercarriage. Traveling dusty roads can allow dirt to cake to some of the most important systems, including your brakes. Mag chloride, sand, and other winter road treatments can adhere to parts. This is about ensuring every part of your truck stays in good working condition, no matter what it goes through each day.

Find an auto mechanic you can trust

No matter what your busy days entail, the last thing you need to worry about is if your car will be ready for all you can dish out the following day. By finding an auto mechanic you can trust, you can schedule routine maintenance checks to find out where your potential problems lie. That way you can stay ahead of issues that can leave you stranded, or build up into bigger problems down the road. They can alert you to simple changes that will make a world of difference, and keep you on the road. Or off the road if you desire!

If you love your pickup truck, keeping your pickup truck running well doesn’t have to be a difficult process. It starts with being proactive with everything you do.

Thermostat

January 18, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

The thermostat is part of your cooling system. The thermostats in your vehicle perform a similar function to the thermostats in your home. At home, you set your thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature range. Then when your home gets too hot, the air conditioning kicks on or when it gets too cool, the heater turns on.

So your engine also has an optimal temperature range: warm enough to run efficiently and not so hot as to cause engine damage. Your vehicle’s thermostat is a valve between the engine and the radiator. When Denver residents first start a cold engine, the valve (thermostat) is closed, allowing the coolant surrounding the engine to warm up to the proper operating temperature. As the coolant gets hotter, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through to the radiator to be cooled. The thermostat opens and closes to keep the engine within a certain temperature range.

Now thermostats are rated for a specific temperature depending on the engine – not a one size fits all proposition. Thermostats are subject to normal wear. Proper operation depends on a special wax that expands as it heats up to open a spring-loaded valve. A worn thermostat could stick in the open position causing the engine to run too cool. This is inefficient and could affect performance and fuel economy. If a thermostat sticks in the closed position, the engine can be subject to the results of overheating.

There isn’t a specific routine for drivers to maintain their thermostat, but maintaining the cooling system by changing the coolant/antifreeze on a regular schedule will make sure the coolant has enough corrosion inhibitors to protect the thermostat and other system components. Cooling system experts and the team at Express Car Care in Denver recommend replacing your thermostats when you do a coolant flush or exchange. Also, thermostats usually wear out faster than your hoses, so if a worn hose replacement is performed, replace the thermostat at the same time.

If your temperature warning light comes on, have an inspection of your cooling system right away. This could be a thermostat. The thermostat could also be the culprit for Denver residents who aren’t getting hot air when they turn on their heater.

The thermostat is a relatively inexpensive part that stands guard between you and catastrophic engine damage. Follow your owner’s manual instructions or check with your friendly and knowledgeable Express Car Care service adviser to see if it’s time for a cooling system inspection or service.

Why Your Pickup Truck Should Have Good Brakes

January 14, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

One of the most essential systems built into any vehicle is the braking system. But for a pickup truck, good brakes are critical.

Imagine flying down the mountain after a weekend of camping, only to find your brakes don’t work. That can be extra scary if your boat or camper is attached and trailing behind you.

Or maybe your sailing down the highway, a bed filled with building materials for your next project. All that extra weight adds strain to your braking system, and you discover they aren’t working quite the way you anticipated when traffic comes to a sudden halt. That can put you in a very messy and dangerous situation.

Pickup trucks that tow need better brakes

That might not come as a surprise, but let’s talk about why pickup trucks that tow need a different braking system.

Any time you add weight onto a vehicle, it changes the operating conditions of the vehicle itself. That large load you pile into the bed, the boat you attach to the back end, or even just adding a larger tire/wheel combination will change the vehicle’s dynamics. Because the pickup truck no longer operates as it was designed, it may also change the functionality of the braking system. When that happens, it’s a good idea to have the entire braking system evaluated to determine if it’s reacting well to the conditions it’s put under on a daily basis.

One of our mechanics can help you select brakes for:

Better stopping power
Noise reduction
Lower brake dust residue
Reduce vibration
A faster break-in time frame
Longer life overall

The other reason brakes are important

A small pickup will have gross weight of anywhere from 5,000 to 7,000 pounds. If you have a heavy duty pickup, gross weight can move up to 7,000 to 12,000 pounds. While manufacturer specs are needed to properly define actual weight, in any case you move a lot of mass around every time you sit behind the wheel.

Compare that to the average sedan on the road today, weighing in at 3,350 pounds, or the average SUV that weighs 4,800 pounds.

That makes the braking system on any pickup truck, especially if they are towing and adding weight to their load, even more important. You’re putting more than the risk of your passengers and load at risk every time you drive.

Maintain your pickup truck brakes properly

Whether your pickup truck uses disc pads at every wheel, or uses drum shoes in the rear, ensure they are working well by scheduling regular inspection and replacement. Depending on how you use your vehicle, your brakes may wear faster and not have as long a useful life as listed on the brake’s guidelines. Unlike motor oil, there isn’t a specific service guideline you should follow.

Brake pads come with wear indicators. They are designed to provide safety tactics built into the pads themselves. Just like on your family car, as the brake pad wears, it will reach the indicator, touch the rotor, and squeal when enough material has worn away.

Some brake pads used on pickup trucks may also have a wear bar that allows you to visually see how much material has worn away. Check this periodically to ensure there is plenty of pad left for normal driving conditions.

Keep in mind that brake pads are only part of your braking system. The rotors themselves can eventually wear down and need to be replaced. This can be more difficult to see, which is why it’s important to schedule regular maintenance visits with your local mechanic.

Is it important to buy the best brakes on the market?

As consumers, we often learn the “good, better, best” approach to purchasing often means we choose the product that costs the most to get the best product. With your pickup truck brakes, that’s not always the case.

According to Consumer Reports, the average stopping distance for compact pickups is 136 feet going from 60 mph back down to zero. Full sized pickups take approximately 140 feet. Compare that sports cars that can stop on average at 120 feet, or even a small luxury car that will stop at 131 feet.

While these are averages, it still brings into question the importance of being able to stop your vehicle easily, to avoid tragic consequences when maneuvering in day to day traffic.

Cheap brakes can have a host of problems. Pull up Youtube and you can search and find all sorts of videos showing you the consequences of installing cheap brake pads. Budget brake pads can experience glue failure. The material can break down easily under stressful situations. The material can separate from the brake pad plate with high amounts of heat – something that can quickly happen if you’re towing a large load and sailing down a mountain pass.

That being said, you don’t necessarily have to go to the other extreme and search for the most expensive brake pad you can find. Instead, it’s best to stick with a brand name with a proven track record, and rely on regular inspections to ensure your brakes are working fine.

Is it time for brake replacement?

Consider what you do during the year. Do you use your pickup truck for work? Do you carry heavy loads? Do you use it regularly to haul boats, campers, and other recreational equipment on your weekend getaways? Do you put hundreds – or thousands – of miles on your truck each season?

Then think for a moment how you drive. Are you slow and careful at every turn? Would you describe your driving as aggressive?

If you push your brakes and use them regularly while driving, your brake pads will have a shorter lifespan.

On the other hand, if you apply the brake pedal gradually, leaving plenty of space around you in all driving conditions, your brakes may last the lifespan suggested by the manufacturer.

This can help you decide how often to bring your pickup truck in for an inspection.

It can also help us make better recommendations for keeping you safe.

Good brakes are vital for any vehicle, but especially a pickup truck. For the safety of your passengers and the vehicles around you, be sure to get your braking system checked regularly.

Helping Your Truck Run Well As It Ages

January 10, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

People don’t buy trucks with the thought of keeping them a couple of years and trading them in for the latest model. Many purchase their pickup trucks with the intent of owning them for years. They become a friend.

But if you want it to last for years while running well at the same time, you’ll have to perform regular maintenance. It’s the best way to keep a truck running well as it ages.

What advice do we have to share on keeping your truck running well? Here’s what we advise.

Keep your oil changes scheduled

This is one of the easiest yet powerful ways to keep your truck running well. Trucks work hard throughout the day, performing any task you ask it to do. In order to keep running well, it takes fluid to ensure each part performs as it was designed. Today’s trucks are technologically advanced, and can operate well with an oil change about every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. For older trucks or vehicles with higher mileage, change it more frequently. Be sure to get a new oil filter with your oil change as well. Also ensure that you use the right oil for your situation. Your owner’s manual will point you in the right direction. Or speak with one of our mechanics; we can help you decide the right motor oil for your needs.

Make sure all fluid levels are up

Motor oil isn’t the only thing your truck needs. While this is the one fluid you should monitor and replace regularly, other fluids need occasional work too. Engine coolant helps keep your engine cool and prevents it from overheating. You’ll find the cap identified by a warning label and illustration to ensure you never open it up while the engine is hot. It should also be checked and filled according to manufacturer’s guidelines. It’s also a good idea to fill up your windshield washer fluid reservoir regularly, and even keep a jug of the cleaner somewhere in your car. The more time you spend on dusty, off roads, the more you’ll need to add to help you drive. While there are other fluids – brake fluid, for example – letting one of our mechanics evaluate your systems will ensure the equipment isn’t compromised, preventing you from driving.

Check your tires

What’s the most important part on your vehicle? While there are many you could argue would be at the top of the list, your tires would definitely be one of them. Think about all your tires go through as you drive. Flying down the highway keeps your truck balanced. Now imagine it driving down a dirt road, as it rotates with every dip and bump you hit. That impacts each tire differently. Rotating the tires regularly ensures even wear over time. While manufacturers have guidelines established, we recommend rotating them more especially if you put your truck through a lot of stress. The front tires will see the most wear, so rotating them periodically will help the tread and extend the life of each of your tires.

When having them rotated, it’s also wise to have them balanced as well. This ensures that the weight of each tire is evenly distributed around each axle. Every time you hit a pothole, or head off-road on a mission, it risks throwing your tires out of balance. Getting them balanced means keeping your tires in better condition, and extending the life of each tire.

Don’t forget about alignment

Do you notice your truck pulling to one side or the other? It’s probably time for a wheel alignment, as driving on rough roads can increase the chances of misalignment. When a misalignment occurs, it creates more wear and tear on the tires. It will also cause poor handling on the road, and decrease your gas mileage. If your truck is out of alignment, it can cause uneven distribution of your truck bed. That means every time you haul something it can place undue pressure on the tires. That can lower tire pressure, and increase the pull. It’s a constant circle of damage that can happen to various parts on your vehicle. Alignments are easy to do on a regular basis, and one of the best ways to ensure your truck is running well as it ages.

Monthly checks

A lot can happen to your truck over the course of a few days. Instead of waiting for a regularly schedules maintenance visit, or waiting until you notice a problem, be proactive in checking things out. A monthly check walking around your vehicle for a visual check will help you notice small problems that can lead to big issues. Turn on your turn signals; do they work? Check to see if your lights are bright and fully illuminated. Do your brake lights work? This is also a time to ensure you have supplies in your truck. Carry windshield washer fluid for easy fill-up. Put spare fuses and lightbulbs in the glove compartment in case one goes out. Having a few extra parts will ensure you never get stuck for something easy to fix.

Change your air filter

While your vehicle can’t survive without fluids, it also needs clean air circulating through the system to function at its best. Over time, the air filter can accumulate dust, dirt, debris, and other pollutants simply from driving on the road. Change out the air filter regularly at least 15,000 miles or more frequently if you drive a lot. It’ll help your engine last longer, and can make your gas mileage more efficient, meaning you’ll save every time you pull into the pump.

Pull in for an inspection today

Just like you see your dentist and doctor regularly to ensure you’re in top health, so to should you bring your truck in frequently to ensure it’s in good condition as it ages. A mechanic can help pinpoint issues to watch for, make suggestions for repair and maintenance work, and keep your truck running in the best manner possible. All of that will ensure you stay on the road for years, and your truck remains loyal and with low maintenance for as long as you own your truck.

Are There Traction Control Problems With Your Car?

January 7, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever been in a position where your car’s wheels slip, spin, or skid?

It can be a scary experience. You have control over your vehicle, and in a split second, you don’t.

YouTube is filled with videos of people in precarious situations after losing control. They even make television shows about it. But when it happens to you, it’s no laughing matter.

That’s how traction control was created.

What is traction control?

When cars were first created, safety was minimal at best. As more cars found their way to the roads, manufacturers started adding in safety features based on what drivers were experiencing.

Engineers tackled the skidding problems first by introducing antilock braking, or ABS. ABS is an antilock braking system that helps prevent cars from locking up, and improves the steering control process at the same time. While the technology was developed early in the automotive industry, debuting in 1928, it wasn’t until 2013 where the US made it a mandatory inclusion on all vehicles produced.

That was the starting point for traction control. As engineers looked at how well ABS controlled skidding, they also played with sensors, actuators, and computer technology to detect and prevent tires from spinning.

Traction control is a safety feature that prevents tires from spinning, allowing maximum connection to the road surface. A traction control system can be turned on and off with a button marked TC, TCL, or an icon showcasing the rear of a car with two skid marks.

Traction control is designed to monitor the speed of each wheel individually, as well as the overall speed of the vehicle. This data is monitored and compared in real time, and when one wheel is determined to be spinning faster than necessary, the system intervenes. The system relies on the sensors of the vehicle, accelerometers, or even leverage satellite navigation systems to track speed. Once detected, it utilizes ABS hardware to bleed off some of the brake pressure to allow the skidding wheel to regain traction. Traction control needs to be about to add hydraulic pressure to control the spinning of individual wheels.

Traction Control Problems

Now that you understand how traction control works, you can better understand traction control problems that can materialize over time.

Problems with sensors responding

One of the most common problems that can develop are problems with the wheel speed sensors. These sensors are exposed to the elements, making them vulnerable to driving conditions. Over time, buildup can occur from dirt, chemicals, and other contaminants that are splashed back underneath the car.

Another common sensor problem is between the electrical connections from the sensor to the computer. If the connection is disrupted, it leaves the traction control system vulnerable to error. And that impacts the drivability of your car.

Warning light

Today’s vehicles are built with technology in mind. Every major system is connected to a monitoring light that illuminates on your dashboard if it senses a problem. Some vehicles have one warning light for both traction control and ABS, while others split it out and have two. Two lights are becoming more common as drivers have the opportunity to turn traction control on and off.

If you notice the warning light turn on and off while driving, it may be sensing a problem with the electrical connections. If the light comes on as you turn your vehicle on, it indicates the system isn’t functioning properly.

Sensitive system

Though traction control offers many benefits, especially to drivers here in Colorado, it can sometimes be a hassle in short term situations, such as leaving a parking space with rutted snow. Some traction control systems are hypersensitive, and turn on at the first sign of a wheel slipping. They reduce power, apply the brakes, and you’ll have nowhere to go. Fortunately, most vehicles have a manual technique of turning off traction control. Then you can revert back to rocking your vehicle back and forth to get it out of the rut. The traction control system can be tested for sensitivity, but in some cases, you’ll have to work with the system when you are in this type of a situation.

Faulty sensors

Like every part on your vehicle, the sensors will only last for so long. Wheel speed sensors are designed to detect the speed of each wheel, noting when one wheel is speeding faster than another. If a sensor isn’t tracking speed correctly, you’ll have to turn off traction control and gain control over your vehicle without using it as an aid. If it’s a problem you notice over and over again, it could be a problem with the sensor.

System problems

Every make and model has different ways of building ABS and traction control into the vehicle. Some systems use hydraulic valves and actuators, while others rely on the electrical system.

Fortunately, our mechanics are trained to work with both types of vehicles. If you notice a problem with traction control, the first step is to bring it in and have us evaluate the entire system. We can pinpoint exactly where the problem lies, and bring it back to good working condition.

The future of traction control

If you’ve recently purchased a new vehicle, you may notice that traction control has an upgrade. Just like ABS hardware and electronics were modified to add traction control to your vehicle, modern technology has provided electronic stability control (ESC).

Depending on the make and manufacturer of your vehicle, it might also be listed as active yaw control (AYC), electronic stability program (ESP), dynamic stability control (DSC), vehicle stability control (VSC), vehicle stability assist (VSA), and more.

What it takes to move from traction control to stability control is more computing power, and a way for measuring the rate at which the vehicle pivots on the center axis. Stability systems help ensure the vehicle goes in the direction of its steering wheel, monitoring its behavior in a way ABS or traction control never could.

All stability control systems use traction control, but the reverse isn’t true. The US mandated that stability control would be included on all new vehicle production starting in 2012.

Does your vehicle use traction control?

Is it working properly?

Simple Answers: Exhaust Service

January 4, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Question: My car failed its emissions test -what do I need to do?

Express Car Care Answer: Let’s get this out of the way…a leak in your exhaust system could be deadly. If you smell exhaust in the passenger cabin or hear an unusual exhaust sound, get your exhaust system checked and repaired. This is important: Carbon monoxide in your exhaust is odorless, colorless and tasteless and can be fatal to you and your passengers, so don’t delay if you suspect an exhaust leak.

There could be several reasons for a failed emissions test, so some diagnostic work is in order. A common reason is that the catalytic converter has failed. The catalytic converter removes some of the harmful elements in exhaust.

When a catalytic converter fails it must be replaced, which isn’t cheap, so many people stop there…but the converter failed for a reason. There may be any number of engine run conditions that led to the failure. It would certainly be smart to have your technician diagnose the cause so that you don’t end up with another catalytic converter replacement down the road.

Oh, and that check engine light that so many people ignore…it might just be illuminated for a condition that could lead to catalytic converter damage. Have your service professional get to the bottom of any check engine light situation.

Give us a call and let us help.

What Is Fuel Injection and Why Should You Care?

January 3, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Just listening to modern-day advertisements for brand new cars can leave you in awe of the technology.

Or maybe a little overwhelmed.

If you’ve tried to read through all of the features, it can leave you feeling like you’re reading a futuristic sci-fi novel, trying to piece together what all of the terms mean.

It sounds impressive, but at the end of the day, you have a car in your garage, and it’s your responsibility to take care of it. That means you need to learn a little about everything, and ensure it’s all well maintained to give you top performance.

Let’s talk fuel injection

Fuel injection isn’t brand new technology. Yet it’s one of those concepts that many drivers take for granted.

Fuel injection has been around almost as long as internal combustion engines. It was initially used in WWI in aircraft engines.

Chevrolet went to market in the 1950s with a mechanical injection V8, but the electronic fuel injection used on today’s modern cars is something different completely.

Carburetors and the mechanical injection first used on the auto production line were a combination of precisely calibrated mechanical parts designed to slowly release fuel into the intake manifold. This allows an air/fuel combination to mix into the combustion chamber.

This was the most efficient fuel delivery system used for decades. They were cheap to manufacture and easy to adapt to the newest engines. They’re simple to work on, and easy to maintain. In fact, a lot of car enthusiasts prefer carburetors because they are easy to troubleshoot.

Yet as many positive features as they brought to our modern day society, they also brought something we didn’t expect: emissions. And as cars multiplied into every level of society, the air we breathe soon became too hard to ignore.

Electronics brought in today’s fuel injection

The more we moved into the technological age, the more it infiltrated our automotive industry as well.

The first electronic fuel injection system was little more than a carburetor designed with a few computer-controlled sensors. But it was a start. This transitional technology allowed manufacturers to see what was possible, and start checking off all kinds of benefits to the automotive industry. Clean up the air? Check. But it also helped with performance issues too. Like helping a car increase gas mileage, and improving the performance of the engine.

https://denverexpresscare.com/how-to-improve-fuel-economy

As with any technology, fuel injection changed gradually over time. Single port fuel injection first showed up in the 1980s. It might have looked similar to a carburetor, but it had one or two fuel injectors in the body, adding fuel to the air mix just before the intake manifold. They improved the mechanical injection process by delivering a more precise fuel delivery. Gas mileage improved, but horsepower and torque waned.

As the single injection system was replaced with multiple ports, engine lifespan also increased. A multi-port fuel injection process uses multiple ports to add fuel to the air mix. With multiple ports, it has better efficiency and performance, with less potential problems as it has more ports to rely on during the process.

A lot has changed since the 1980s. Technology has increased, computers have decreased in size, and they run faster than ever. The number of car sensors has increased, meaning it’s easier than ever for mechanics to diagnose where problems lie. Engineers have fine-tuned every part of the fuel delivery process, making today’s cars the best yet for emissions standards as well as performance.

Common fuel injector problems

If something goes wrong with your fuel injection system, your engine won’t perform the way it was intended. How do you know when something is wrong with fuel injectors?

A rough idle

If the fuel injectors aren’t releasing enough fuel, or are sending an uneven supply into the engine, the RPMs will drop below the optimal level while idling. That means a rough idle while standing still, and if it falls too low, it will actually stall out the car.

Engine vibration

If a fuel injector isn’t spraying correctly, it will cause a misfire in the corresponding cylinder. You’ll notice this as you’re driving, the engine will vibrate as it tries to complete each cycle without the proper level of fuel.

Engine misfire

If the injector is clogged, it won’t be able to spray the correct amount of fuel into the engine, causing a misfire as you drive. You’ll notice your car struggling as you accelerate. You might even notice a pause as you step on the gas pedal. Either way, this is a warning sign that the engine isn’t receiving the proper amount of fuel, and it could be at risk for overheating.

Fuel leak

Sometimes the fuel injector can crack, break, or deteriorate from old age. A small leak will release gasoline where it isn’t supposed to be. That means fuel won’t reach the engine, and it can start the process of damaging the system. You may even notice a fuel odor from the leak.

Engine surge

If the fuel injectors spray too much gas into the engine cylinder, it will cause an engine surge. This will cause your RPMs to change drastically, even when your driving is relatively stable. Your acceleration will be much slower.

Bad fuel economy

All cars originate with a fairly stable fuel economy. You can expect it to stay the same, depending on your driving habits. But if you start noticing your fuel tank draining faster, without a change in driving conditions, it could be your fuel injectors.

Check engine light

Today’s sensors are more sensitive than ever. They are designed to warn you of any potential problem within the system. The check engine light can mean an array of things, one of which could be bad fuel injectors. Never ignore a warning light. Stop in and have it checked to find where the problem lies.

Failed emissions test

Because your engine isn’t running optimally, it can increase emissions, which will be noticeable the next time your car is tested. If your car fails the emissions test, the fuel injectors are one of the first things we’ll check.

Have you noticed your vehicle isn’t running as well as it once did? Is your gas mileage slipping? Does your car have trouble running? Drive in today, and with a diagnostics test, we’ll pinpoint the problem and get you back on the road quickly. We’re here to help you keep your vehicle in tip top shape, and get you where you’re going safely.

EVAP System Leak, Now What?

December 28, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

When you buy an automobile, you quickly learn how it operates and functions. You adjust to the noises it makes. You become attuned to the way it performs. One tiny change – a noise or a smell – will alert you to a potential problem, and give you ample time to have it fixed before the issue escalates.

Luckily, with today’s modern vehicles, it’s not just about relying on your sense of smell or hearing to detect a potential problem. Technology is now integrated into every vehicle, being the internal sight and sound that watches over everything that happens every time you start your car. Every system is calibrated to acceptable levels, and if anything moves beyond those measures, it alerts you with a tiny dashboard light.

The check engine light is one that alerts you to a variety of potential problems. Some can involve minor fixes. Some can be massive system failures – especially if you don’t fix the situation quickly.

An EVAP leak is one of those potential problems that impacts your check engine light. What is it and how do you fix it?

What is an EVAP leak?

An EVAP leak is a problem somewhere in the evaporative emission control system (EVAP). The EVAPs purpose is to contain any fumes released from gasoline, and prevent them from seeping out and impacting the environment.

The EVAP system is an important part of your vehicle’s pollution control feature, but it also serves another function: it keeps dangerous fumes from entering the cabin of your car.

How does the EVAP system work?

A vehicle’s EVAP system controls fuel vapors from escaping the fuel tank as your car sits and runs. These vapors are collected and condensed before being returned into the fuel tank. The fuel tank is a sealed system that is vacuum controlled and has purge control solenoids for the process.

As the engine runs, a vacuum is used to draw fumes into a charcoal canister where vapors are collected and condensed. As you turn the key, the engine activates a control valve which releases this vacuum into the system. The purge solenoid moves into operation and helps control the vapors, moving them back into the fuel tank.

The fuel tank has a pressure sensor to monitor this supply cycle and ensure it’s working correctly. It’s a continual process, keeping you safe while you drive, but also ensuring your car remains safe as it sits, unused.

What can go wrong with the EVAP system?

When any part of the EVAP system is compromised, it can cause a problem inside the vehicle. If a problem arises with the vacuum, solenoid, or sensor at any time, it will deliver a code to the main computer memory, alerting it to a problem within the system. It illuminates the check engine light to warn you of a potential problem.

Potential problems can include:

Gas cap failure – this is one of the most popular shortcomings, due to regular usage
Gas cap O ring is damaged
Gas tank filler tube is damaged
Vacuum feed line leaks
Vacuum control valve leaks
Vapor tube from the charcoal canister to the tank is damaged
The charcoal canister is leaking

Is it safe to drive with an EVAP leak?

While it isn’t dangerous to drive with an EVAP leak, there are several reasons why you shouldn’t.

First, it is potentially harmful to the environment. Every time you drive, your car emits exhaust fumes that contribute to the destruction of the ozone. Without the EVAP fully working, you’re emitting various levels of harmful chemicals into the world.

It also impacts your drive. While you might be able to drive your car with EVAP problems for a while, eventually, you’ll have to undergo an emissions test to update your vehicle registration. An EVAP leak will prevent you from passing this test. The longer you wait to fix the problem, the more potential damage may be done.

Finally, while the EVAP is a closed system, and won’t directly impact your health if there’s a leak in the system, it can impact other comforts of driving your car. A leak can impact the pressure in your gas tank, which can affect your mileage. It’s also something to pay attention to if you park in a closed environment.

Can you pass smog with an EVAP leak?

The short answer is: maybe. It depends on the source of the problem.

In some cases, this may be the first sign you have a problem. A negative test alerts you to the fact your car isn’t working properly.

If you do notice a check engine light before an emissions test, scheduling a maintenance visit to ensure every system on your vehicle is fully operational will help keep your car in good working condition all throughout the year.

Does EVAP system affect performance?

The EVAP charcoal canister valve – the purge solenoid – acts as a switch to move vapor into the engine. If this fails, one of the first symptoms you may notice is a rough ride. You will notice your car running inconsistently when you come to a stop, or while you’re driving at low speeds. If it sticks open, it can create a vacuum leak that impacts your idle speed. If damage to the solenoid continues, it can also lead to your engine stalling out completely.

The EVAP controls vapor. A leak within the system can impact how well your vehicle starts and stays running. Any issue with interrupted internal combustion may cause your engine to stall or refuse to start altogether.

How do you fix evaporative emission system leak detected?

One of the easiest fixes is simply to replace the gas cap. Since broken seals and a loose fit can impact how much emissions are escaping, Inspect the O ring. Because the gas cap is removed continuously when you fill up, it can stretch and loosen over time.

It may also be the vacuum feed line. This line feeds from the engine intake manifold to the EVAP system control valve. Engine heat and vibration can loosen connections or even deteriorate the rubber over time.

The main component is the charcoal canister. While it’s not something that deteriorates with regularity, it can need replacing if you’re having emissions problems.

Every system on your vehicle works to keep your car running smoothly.

Whether you have a check engine light that won’t turn off, or are noticing your car is running rougher than before, don’t wait for bigger problems to arise.

Drive in today and let us have a look.

It can be the difference between a minor repair and a major overhaul.

We’ll get you back on the road in no time.

How Much Do Today’s Cars Pollute? Reducing Pollution Through Better Car Maintenance

December 24, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Global warming. Climate change. Energy efficiency. Green technology.

Each of these concepts stirs up a lot of debate. But no matter how you feel about each subject, chances are you’re doing something to reduce your carbon footprint and make your world a better place.

Take car pollution, for example. According to the EPA, automobiles and other light vehicles are one of the leading causes of air pollution.

Think back to cars from the 40s, 60s, or 80s. What’s the one thing that continually changes over time? Efficiency. All you need to do is follow a car from the 60s for a few miles and you’ll realize just how much progress we’ve made with car pollution.

What causes air pollution?

The main cause of car emissions is gasoline. When you start your car, it requires gasoline to operate. (Electric cars are changing this, but for now, we’re talking about gasoline operated vehicles.) As gasoline burns, pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and other hydrocarbons escape through the tailpipe. They also escape as the gas flows throughout the vehicle, operating the various systems that make your car run.

These pollutants escape and cause problems as they react with the environment. When exposed to sunlight, for example, hydrocarbons impact ozone. Nitrogen will linger in the atmosphere and add to acid rain. Carbon dioxide traps heat here in the earth’s atmosphere. And all of this has been building over time – for over a century as auto production has scaled over the years.

If you want to reduce car pollution, your first steps are to clean up your car and the way you drive.

Upgrading your vehicle is a step in the right direction – every new make and model adds more efficiency to the cause. But even models several years old can be maintained for maximum efficiency.

How do you reduce emissions, and reduce car pollution to the best of your ability?

These are the parts and systems that help reduce air pollution

Today’s vehicles come with an emission control system. Chances are you need an emissions test every so often in order to license your vehicle for the road. An emissions control system is specifically designed to reduce nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds that impact the environment.

Your vehicle also has an onboard diagnostic monitoring system to monitor the inner-workings of your car. If it finds a problem somewhere within the engine compartment, for example, it will trigger the “check engine” light to come on. This often is a problem related to the transmission system, or to emissions feeding through your tailpipe. Acting quickly can fix the problem and eliminate costly repairs down the road. The most common auto parts that play a part in reducing car pollution include:

The air injection pump – pushes air into the exhaust manifold to allow fuel to burn more completely.

The catalytic converter – it oxidizes the volatile organic compounds and reduces nitrogen oxides.

The exhaust gas recirculation system – also known as EGR, this system returns exhaust back into the combustion chamber to aid in lowering emissions.

The misfire monitor – this turns on the check engine light whenever a misfire occurs in the engine compartment.

The oxygen sensor – monitors the best possible mix of fuel and oxygen. If this sensor isn’t working right, it can cause your car to waste more gasoline.

The positive crankcase ventilation valve – also known as PCV valve, it redirects vapor into the intake manifold. This helps prevent engine corrosion, and reduces emissions by increasing efficiency.

How to reduce car pollution and emissions

Colorado has rules in place that require your vehicle to meet certain guidelines to car emissions. Counties that require emissions tests include Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson, and portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, and Weld. If you are unsure, you can contact your local county office for more information.

Your vehicle will need periodic testing in order to receive your updated vehicle registration and license. If your vehicle fails the test, you’ll need to repair your vehicle in order to gain a positive reading before you’ll be allowed to renew your registration.

To keep your car in good working condition and to avoid potential emissions related problems, a good maintenance schedule will benefit both your vehicle and the environment.

Get regular tuneups

If your car is running rough, it is more likely to be releasing higher emissions into the environment. It may be a clogged filter, poor oil quality, spark plugs that aren’t firing correctly, or a timing problem that’s preventing fas efficiency. Schedule regular tuneups to ensure your car is always working at its best.

Tire pressure

While many drivers associate efficiency with the engine, your tires play a big part as well. Proper tire pressure ensures your gas mileage is as high as possible, and that your vehicle is operating correctly. Every piece in your car plays an equal part to help in achieving efficiency.

Read your owner’s manual

We all lead busy lives, and have priorities weighing on us all the time. Sometimes it can be easier to push maintenance aside and focus on things that are more pressing. That creates a cycle of responding to emergencies rather than performing preventative maintenance. It also creates a pattern of paying more for repair work than is truly needed.

If you haven’t taken the time to become familiar with your vehicle’s owner’s manual, spend some time getting to know your car. Pay attention to service markers that can impact how your car operates:

How often you should change brake pads
How often you should replace the timing belt
How often you should service the transmission

Of course, these are just a few of the systems your car needs serviced throughout its lifetime. By being proactive, paying attention to mileage markers, and knowing how long individual parts should last, you’ll be able to replace parts before they turn into bigger problems.

Looking for a mechanic that can help you reduce car pollution, and create a maintenance program that keeps your car in great shape twelve months of the year?

Stop by today and see just how easy it is to keep your car in great shape.

What You Need To Know About Wheel Balance and Front End Alignment

December 22, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever let go of the steering wheel and had your vehicle veer to the right or left? While a little pull might not impact safety immediately, the more off-balance your vehicle, the more risk you’ll be on the road.

Your wheels have to point in the same direction, roll straight forward when driving on a flat surface, and be evenly balanced all the way around for your car to run smoothly. If a problem arises with any one of these points, it impacts your driving, and can influence safety during the drive.

Yet if you’ve done a search online, heard a mechanic talk about the steering system, and felt like you’re not quite sure what your car needs, we want to explain a few of the terms of the industry, and help you understand the mechanics of your vehicle.

When talking about your steering system, there are several things that can impact your drive.

What is wheel balance?

Think about your tires for a moment. Tires are made up of a variety of materials, including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, plastic polymer, metal, and other compounds. They may be tough to the touch, but as they connect to the road, they move and change shape as they move along.

Even with today’s technology and all the manufacturing upgrades we’ve made over the years, it’s still impossible to find a perfectly formed tire that will continue to be balanced all the way around as it ages. There will always be a part of the tire that ways a bit more, is a little thicker than other areas, or has imperfections that cause it to fall out of balance.

When one side of a wheel is out of balance with the other, it vibrates. Wheel balance fixes this issue.

What is wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment has little to do with the actual wheels. Instead, wheel alignment is all about working with your car’s suspension system to control what direction and angle your wheels are moving in.

There are three different ways your wheels are aligned in relation to your car’s steering system:

The first is toe – it’s the angle of all four tires to one another. This is one of the most common repair issues, when your four wheels are no longer working in conjunction with one another. If you’ve ever noticed your car veers to the right or left, and refuses to drive in a straight line without extra effort, it’s most likely a toe misalignment.

The second is camber – this refers to the angle of a wheel if you were to look at it from the front of the vehicle. If you notice a wheel leaning to one side or the other, it’s most likely a misaligned camber.

The third is caster – this is the angle of the steering pivot as you view it from one of the vehicle’s sides. This is the most difficult to see. Take a look at the way each wheel sits inside the wheel well. If one is more forward or backward, and doesn’t sit in the middle, it might be a problem with the caster. This could lead to rubbing the wheel along the well, especially if you hit a large bump. It can damage the tire over time.

What is front end alignment?

While you might see some mechanics or auto websites talking about wheel alignment, you’ll also find many articles referring to front end alignment. Is there a difference? Do you have to work with both to keep your car running smoothly?

Wheel alignment often refers to the alignment of all four wheels. This is especially important if you drive a four-wheel drive vehicle. A front end alignment relates only to the front two wheels.

Yet no matter how you refer to it, the ending result is the same. A wheel alignment – or a front end alignment – all work towards the common goal of ensuring your wheels are working optimally in providing you a safe, smooth ride.

How do I know if the wheels are out of balance?

Your wheels go through a lot as you drive around the city. They hit bumps, dive through dips, take corners quickly, keep you safe on slick or snowy roads, and protect you from debris covering the roads.

Even brand new tires are susceptible to problems and errors. Coming out of the factory doesn’t necessarily guarantee perfection.

Yet with the use of technology, your tires are installed on your vehicle and regulated to fit your car’s requirements. The moment you drive away, things begin to happen. Cold, heat, water, ice, debris in the road, age – all of it begins to wear on each tire, causing slight variations in their performance. It can impact one tire at a time, or all four equally. One can be slightly overfilled while another is underfilled.

Just a half an ounce difference in the amount of pressure in a tire can cause a vibration in handling. And that begins to wear on your vehicle.

Rebalancing puts the wheels back into adjustment.

Tires are attached to a tire balancing machine. The wheel is spun while taking various vibrational measurements. If an imbalance is found, the mechanic will add weights or move the tire on the wheel to bring it back into balance.

Wheel balancing should be done anytime you notice a vibration in the steering wheel. It’s automatically performed every time you get your tires rotated, or you buy and install new tires. If you notice the weights have fallen off, or you notice uneven wear on a tire, it’s also wise to bring it in for wheel balancing.

How do I know if a front end alignment is necessary?

The more you know your vehicle, the more you’ll notice when changes occur, problems that might be causing wear and tear on various systems within your car. While wheel balancing and wheel alignment require different repairs, they are connected and sometimes start showing in a similar manner.

Have you noticed a vibration in your steering wheel? It’s time to bring your car in for an inspection. This is a prime symptom of a problem with your steering system.

Wheel alignment also shows up in performance and handling as you drive. Take a look at your steering wheel. Does it sit crooked as you drive in a straight line down the road? That is a symptom of an alignment problem.

You might also notice your car pulling to the right or left as you drive, needing even more of your attention to keep the vehicle in a straight line. That’s a sign you’re in need of a wheel alignment.

Front end alignments can also show up in the form of a strange noise. Do you hear abnormal sounds every time you move your steering wheel? Do the tires squeal? Don’t ignore unusual sounds. It could be a sign of a bigger problem.