Engine

What Are Auto Diagnostic Tests and Are They Reliable?

February 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When some problems arise, you can visually see the issue. If a tire is flat, you patch it.

Other problems are more difficult to diagnose. You know your car isn’t running correctly. You know there’s a problem deep within the systems. But where?

Luckily, we have auto diagnostic tests to help pinpoint where the problem is. How reliable are auto diagnostic tests?

The history of auto diagnostic tests

Diagnostic tests are a relatively new concept in the automotive industry. Over the past two decades, the industry grew as electronics were introduced and used just as frequently as mechanics.

The 1990s are considered the start of automotive diagnostics, as electrical structures were introduced into the complexities of car manufacturing. As computer chips became readily available and we moved to higher technological advances, vehicles changed their structures and relied more on sensors.

These sensors made it easier to locate a problem. Vehicles converted into a digital piece of technology that could be monitored and tested periodically to ensure everything is working correctly.

Running an auto diagnostic test from time to time helps keep your car safe and operating correctly. For a technician, it’s no longer guesswork when you bring the car in. Trouble codes tell them where a problem originates. Note – the code refers to where the problem lies, not necessarily what the problem is. This is where training and education come into play, where a mechanic uses their knowledge base to get to the root of the problem.

What Are Auto Diagnostic Tests and Are They Reliable?

What parts can be tested?

Today’s diagnostic tests can reveal issues in all the vehicle’s major systems.

Engine
Exhaust system
Brakes
Transmission
Fuel system

Diagnostic tests are designed to ensure your vehicle is running at optimal levels. It diagnoses:

Problems with the engine
Issues with the transmission
Responsiveness
Braking issues
Potential contamination or faults with the exhaust systems
Wear, tear, or breakage with major components

Drivers often have a misconception about what codes on their dashboards are telling them. If the check engine light turns on, they may attempt to pinpoint the problem by looking up the code being referred to. But this is only a starting point. This is where human experience takes over and gets to the root of the problem.

What auto diagnostic testing is advantageous

Technically, scheduling an auto diagnostic test isn’t a “needed” service. It’s not something you plan regularly as you would an oil change.

Diagnostic testing usually comes into play when you start having trouble with your car. Suppose you notice a problem with performance, or a dashboard light suddenly turns on. In that case, a diagnostic test can help pinpoint where it originates, giving mechanics the ability to move right to the problem.

This eliminates guesswork, and fixing by trial and error. It gets you in and out faster, and gives you better assurance that the original problem is fixed.

The reliability of an auto diagnostic test

Depending on the age of your vehicle, you may be familiar with guessing at what a problem is.

Before technology moved into the way a car functions, many of the most common issues were solved through human knowledge. But sometimes, the most challenging problems could take time to diagnose, as the output of the problem might not match what’s truly wrong.

This meant a driver may have brought the vehicle back in multiple times trying to get to the heart of the problem.

That’s wasted time, energy, and effort for all parties involved.

Take smoke coming from the tailpipe as an example. Smoke coming from the tailpipe is a sign of a problem with the engine. But it could be triggered by several different things.

It might be water vapor that’s built up inside the exhaust system, burning off as you start the car.

It might be the fuel/air mixture is too rich, and isn’t combusting correctly.

It might mean oil is burning inside the combustion chamber due to leaky valves or bad piston rings.

Or it could be a sign coolant is burning in the engine, signaling it may be a blown head gasket, which could lead to the engine overheating.

A mechanic may recognize the signals and fix one issue. But if it’s multiple problems, one may be overlooked, especially if it’s a minor problem.

A diagnostic test can pinpoint that and lead to fixing the problem before it escalates.

Accuracy is important

Years ago, cars were more mechanical by nature. Systems were more straightforward, meaning getting to the root cause was easier for a mechanic to perform.

That hasn’t changed. Some problems are easy to diagnose. A mechanic may see the issue frequently, and know exactly how to fix it.

But today’s vehicles aren’t just mechanical. They are a blend of mechanics and technology, designed for precise calibration to ensure efficiency and ease at the same time.

Compare it to a doctor’s visit. You go in with a complaint, a particular weakness or spot that’s troubling you. A doctor will ask questions, gather information, and order tests. These are essentially diagnostic tests. The doctor may have an idea of what’s wrong, but a diagnostic test confirms it, and rules out other causes.

The same works for your vehicle.

A mechanic may suspect what’s wrong. A diagnostic test confirms it. And ensures there aren’t other trouble areas that may be causing problems.

Is it time for an auto diagnostic test?

If you’ve noticed a problem with one of the major systems, a diagnostic test may aid in getting to the root cause. Before you bring it in, gather as much information as possible:

What is the problem?
When does it occur?
What circumstances surround the most noticeable characteristics?
Is there a noise? Is it constant or inconsistent?
Have you noticed other issues?
Have you tried to fix it yourself?

The more information you bring in with you, the easier it will be for our technicians to figure out what’s wrong.

Call us today and schedule your appointment. We’re here to help you get back on the road again.

What Are The Signs of a Bad Timing Belt

January 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

The timing belt is an integral part of the engine compartment. It’s a rubber belt that synchronizes movement between the camshaft and crankshaft, and ensures the valves stay freely moving and your engine continues to run.

When operating well, your timing belt helps your vehicle operate smoothly. A bad timing belt can cause problems with the way your car runs, and if left unchecked, can cease operation altogether.

How do you know if your car’s timing belt is bad?

Digging deep into timing belts

Depending on how old your car is, you may have also heard a timing belt referred to as a timing chain. A timing chain functions in the same way as a timing belt. The difference is in the location and construction.

Timing chains are made from metal, where a timing belt is constructed of reinforced rubber. Before rubber became widely used, metal parts were standard in the production of automobiles. Timing belts were introduced in the 1960s as the material became stronger, and it was less expensive to produce.

Timing chains are built within the engine, receiving lubrication from engine oil that can help it last for a long time. Timing belts are located outside the engine, and will dry out and crack over time.

While metal is noisier than rubber, improvements have been made over the past few decades to where timing chains are making a comeback in some vehicles. To find out how your car operated, you can check your owner’s manual, or speak with your mechanic the next time you get your car serviced.

While older timing chains needed replacing every 60,000 miles or so, today’s timing belts can last up to 100,000 before replacement. Many mechanics recommend that if the water pump goes out, it’s best to replace the timing belt at the same time as the belt needs to be removed in order to get to the pump.

Warning signs of a bad timing belt

As the timing belt ages, it may start offering warning signs that it’s no longer working as well as it should. To prevent the timing belt from going out while driving, ensure regular maintenance to keep oil viscosity normal and ensure all parts are fully lubricated. And watch for these signs.

A drop in oil pressure

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. Without the right amount of oil, your engine will cease to operate. And that can be a very costly maintenance item. Full replacement is often the only way.

Keeping an eye on all gauges while driving can alert you to potential problems. A failing timing belt can cause oil pressure to drop. If you notice this, pull over immediately and turn off the vehicle. A failing timing belt can cause the timing of the camshaft to be off, which can cause pieces to break off and fall into the oil pan. This is the worst-case scenario. It’s not something that often happens because most people heed other warning signs first.

Broken pistons or valves

While it’s not common to have complete failure, if the camshaft and crankshaft aren’t performing correctly, the pistons and valves operate out of sync. This means they may collide with other components in the system, crack off and break.

Broken parts are never a good thing, especially in a fast moving system. Pieces can be thrown in a variety of directions, causing even more destruction. If you see sudden changes in how your vehicle operates, and hear noises that come on suddenly, pull over and turn off your engine immediately.

Rough idling

When you look at a timing belt, you’ll notice they have little teeth or ridges on the edges to help it move. This is to help it move between the gears, allowing it to rotate through the various components of the system. As the belt ages, these ridges smooth down, the belt becomes looser, and the gears don’t mesh in quite the same way. This process can cause the engine to idle rough. The longer this continues, it can eventually lead to the engine stalling.

Misfiring

As the timing belt begins to slip, it can cause a variety of problems. Slipping away from the gears causes the pistons and valves to open and close out of sync. This results in a misfire. While it can be easy to ignore, this is an indicator that the system isn’t performing up to par. If allowed to continue, you risk permanently damaging your engine.

Smoke

The timing belt is in constant rotation, keeping everything moving in perfect condition. This also ensures proper air intake, including exhaust. If there is a problem anywhere in the rotation process, the system may take in too much air, or release too much exhaust. In this case, you’ll often see an unusual amount of smoke escaping as the car operates.

Prevention is key to avoiding timing belt problems

Having a timing belt go out isn’t something car owners have to experience. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping everything running well.

If your vehicle operates using a timing chain, oil viscosity is key. Use your vehicle’s suggested motor oil to ensure it’s properly lubricated. When in doubt, error on replacing your oil frequently to ensure good quality motor oil is always running through the system. Today’s lighter oils can penetrate more areas to ensure every component stays running well.

You can also have your vehicle checked from time to time to ensure the various systems and components are working well. Pay attention to manufacturer’s suggestions, replacing certain parts before they have a chance to go out.

Have you experienced a bad timing belt before?

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.

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.

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.

Why Your Car Needs Regular Tune Ups

November 24, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

A car is comprised of over 10,000 components working together to provide you with reliable transportation. If it’s well cared for, it will continue running indefinitely. That’s why car manufacturers recommend regular tune ups to keep their vehicles operating at their best.

But what does that mean? The concept of a regular tune up is a bit vague. It can mean one thing to one driver, and have a completely different meaning to someone else.

What is a tune up?

When you bring in your car for a tune up, it will move through two processes: an inspection and servicing.

The inspection process starts with a visual check of all the major components of the vehicle. A mechanic will determine how well the engine is performing by inspecting the spark plugs, air filters, oil and coolant levels. They will assess the fuel system by making sure the fuel filter is clean and unclogged.

If a mechanic sees any potential problem, the inspection process can grow from there to assess other systems and ensure they are operating well.

The tune up service depends on the results of the inspection. Every tune up process will be different, with recommendations made based on what is found. The goal is to ensure the engine operates properly, receives the right amount of fuel and oil, and functions well based on the current road conditions. Suggestions for servicing might be as simple as adding coolant, to more complex issues that require replacing various parts of the system.

Typically, a mechanic runs through a series of tests to find potential problems before they escalate. The most common parts replaced after an inspection include:

Fluids – cars operate well if the fluids are topped off and in good condition. Mechanics often recommend replacing or topping off motor oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid after a thorough check.
Filters – a filter’s job is to keep contaminating particles from entering a system. Once a filter is dirty or compromised, it can no longer do its job effectively. If a mechanic notices a dirty filter, changing out may be an easy solution to the problem.
Belts and hoses – belts and hoses keep your car operational. It’s how power moves through the various components to keep your car running well. Cracks, leaks, and other damage can compromise the working condition of the various systems underneath the hood.
Ignition – this includes the electrical components of your vehicle, including spark plugs, wires, and coils.

Warning signs your car needs a tune up

Cars rarely fail without indicators far in advance. It’s your job to notice transitions in the way your vehicle is operating, and bring your car in for servicing before things move from bad to worse.

Luckily, there are built in warning signs that alert you to potential problems.

Dashboard lights – today’s vehicles are technologically advanced, and can easily alert you to potential problems before they grow. Every dashboard light tells you your vehicle is operating outside of “normal.” It gives you a chance to bring it in for servicing before it gets worse. An engine light can mean many things. A tune up will get to the root cause, and fix the problem quickly.

Brakes – the brake system is one of the most vital. If you notice squeaks when you apply the brakes, or the pedal feels a bit spongy as you apply pressure, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for inspection.

Fuel economy – with every fill up, pay attention to the gas mileage you got for that tank of gas. If you notice changes in gas mileage without a solid reason, it could be that your vehicle isn’t processing the gas as efficiently as when it was new. That can impact the way the engine performs, as well as effect the emissions being released every time you drive.

Stalling – as you apply pressure to the accelerator, does the car lag, jump, work to catch up with your demands? This can put you in a dangerous situation on a busy road, and continue causing damage underneath the hood.

Vibrations – whenever your vehicle shifts in ways it normally doesn’t, shakes as you drive, or hesitates, it’s a sign there’s a problem within the system. To stay safe, a tune up can find out what’s wrong.

While it’s important to bring your vehicle in for a tune up if you notice something not working right, it’s equally important to do so regularly. Manufacturers make recommendations based on the way your vehicle was constructed to ensure it continues working well throughout the life of the vehicle.

Modern vehicles only need tune ups every 30,000 to 100,000 miles. If you’re not sure about your vehicle, check the owner’s manual for more details. It’s best to stick with a plan to ensure a long life for your car.

What a car tune up includes

When you bring your car in for servicing, it typically will include:

Filter replacement
Change out spark plugs
Replace all worn components
Preventative maintenance
Fluid replacement
Examining the electrical connections
Repairing and replacing belts, hoses, and wires

If you stick with a regular maintenance plan, your tune up should be uneventful, with updates to the needed components.

Maintenance is the key to keeping your car well conditioned for as long as you own your vehicle.

Still have questions about the best care for your car?

We’re here to help.

To keep your car in good working condition, it’s important to pay attention to how well your vehicle operates from day to day. When you notice changes, it’s time to bring it in and have it inspected. It can help you stay safe in all driving conditions, and catch potential problems early to keep repair bills to a minimum.

When was the last time you scheduled a tune up for your car? Do it today.

What Fuel Injectors Do and How To Keep Them Operating at Their Best

September 17, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Once upon a time, all cars were built solely for transportation. With a simple set of parts, cars were designed to move passengers from point A to point B, with little thought for anything else.

As the decades moved forward, a lot changed with car production. Automakers added comfort, safety, and efficiency.

Looking back at the history of the internal combustion engine, the carburetor played a big part in supplying fuel to the engine. Over time, designers added a variety of systems to keep up with modern day operating requirements. Carburetors had several different circuits designed to manage fuel for different reasons:

Main circuit – provide enough fuel for driving

Idle circuit – provide enough fuel for idling

Power circuit – provide enough fuel for acceleration

Over time, as governments demanded stricter emissions requirements, catalytic converters were added to control the air to fuel ratio. Oxygen sensors were added to monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust.

Technology changed, and the first fuel injection system was introduced as a way to improve efficiencies over carburetors. Common types include throttle body injection, multiport injection, direct injection, sequential injection, and central fuel injection. These systems have an injector at each cylinder, located in such a way as to be able to spray directly at the intake valve. It’s a faster, more accurate way of fuel metering, providing quicker response.

How a fuel injector works

When a car works as designed, there’s little for a driver to think about. Step on the gas pedal, and the car moves forward.

A throttle valve opens up as you press on the gas pedal, allowing air into the engine. As this occurs, the engine control unit (ECU) reacts and increases the fuel rate as air enters the engine. This occurs simultaneously. With any hesitation, you’d feel it in the way your car performs. Sensors ensure that the air to fuel ratio remains constant, and the amount of oxygen in the exhaust meets manufacturer’s guidelines.

What Fuel Injectors Do and How To Keep Them Operating at Their Best

The fuel injector is an electronically controlled valve that supplies pressurized fuel into the system. As it’s energized, the fuel injector sprays pressurized fuel through a tiny nozzle designed to make the spray a fine mist so that it burns easily. The amount of fuel supplied is determined by how long the fuel injector stays open. This is controlled by the ECU.

The fuel injectors are mounted to the intake manifold, so the spray directly connects with the intake valves. In order to ensure the right amount of fuel is sprayed, the ECU operates with a variety of sensors. They can include:

Coolant temperature sensor – this monitors the operating temperature of the engine
Engine speed sensor – this monitors engine speed
Mass airflow sensor – this monitors the amount of air flowing into the engine
Oxygen sensor – this monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust for the ECU to determine how rich or lean the fuel mixture is and make adjustments accordingly.
Throttle position sensor – this monitors the throttle valve position to determine how much air is being released into the engine
Voltage sensor – this monitors the system voltage so the ECU can raise the idle speed if voltage drops

Fuel injectors will usually only fail in one of several ways

The fuel injectors on your vehicle are designed to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. This is impacted by the type of gas you put into your car, as well as how often the various fuel filters are changed.

When fuel injectors wear down, it’s because:

The fuel injectors are clogged or dirty – when you turn off the engine, heat dissipates. This causes any fuel left in the injector to evaporate, which leaves behind tiny hard deposits. Over time, these can block the injector.

The fuel injectors are leaking – fuel injectors can leak internally or externally. The most common reason is failure of the o-ring, which connects the fuel injector to the fuel rail. It can become hard and brittle over time from the heat of the engine.

The fuel injectors fail – there are many moving parts inside a fuel injector. Over time, they can simply wear down and fail.

Signs your fuel injectors may be failing

Your vehicle has more than 10,000 parts to ensure it operates effectively. Over time, any number of those parts can start to wear down. Few break or fail without warning.

Like other systems on your vehicle, fuel injectors will start showing signs when there’s a problem. You may notice:

It’s difficult to start the engine when it’s hot
Your car has a rough idle
You failed your latest emissions test
You notice poor performance as you start your car and drive
The engine has a difficult time reaching full RPMs
You notice a decrease in gas mileage
You notice smoke pouring from the tailpipe
The car bucks at different throttle loads
Engine knocking

Preventing fuel injector problems

Fuel injectors are hard working pieces that can last the life of your vehicle. Like any other engine part, regular maintenance is the key to keep it operating efficiently. If you plan on owning your vehicle for years, there are a few things you can do to keep it operating at its best.

Regular maintenance and inspection

Vehicles don’t take a lot of maintenance. Most drivers do what’s necessary to keep their vehicles operating at their best

It starts with paying attention to what you put into your vehicle. Go with a high grade gasoline. Get regular oil changes. And stick with a car care center you can trust; one who will get to know your vehicle and ensure it’s working its best. Fuel injectors should be inspected every 25,000 to 40,000 miles under normal circumstances, more often if you do a lot of short journeys around town.

Keep your engine healthy by changing out the oil and fuel filter regularly. This ensures the engine has proper fuel flow.

You can also pay attention to the way you drive your vehicle. Short start/stop journeys increase wear and tear. While you can’t change your driving habits if you work and run errands close to home, you can be aware of ensuring your car is well cared for. Give your engine a chance to cool off before you shut it off on occasion. Maintenance is key to keeping it operating well.

And if you have any questions about how your car operates, bringing your vehicle in quickly will be your best bet every time.

Always Drive With Low Fuel Levels? Here’s What Happens To Your Car

September 11, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

We’ve all reached a point where we watch the fuel level of your vehicle move closer to empty, without a gas station in sight.

It can be a scary experience if you’re out on the highway with few cars around you.

For some, letting the gas tank empty out is a rare experience. For others, it’s a regular routine.

What happens as the gas tank moves towards empty? Can it impact your vehicle in other ways?

Experts say it’s a bad idea to allow your gas tank to get that low regularly. Here’s why.

Is empty really empty?

Drivers learn quickly that an empty warning sign doesn’t mean empty immediately. People often push a little further, pressing the limits of what their cars can do.

As the car’s gas tank empties, it triggers a warning light, letting you know the gas levels are low. Each auto manufacturer sets its own guidelines for how much gas is left inside the tank when that connection is made. Most do so to allow you to drive another 30 to 60 miles, enough to make it to the next gas station.

If you have a smart car, it may also give you mileage numbers on how many miles you have until your next fill-up. Keep in mind that these are estimates. Sitting in traffic, climbing hills, or driving at high speeds can all impact the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, and impact how much gas you’ll use in between fill-ups.

What driving on empty can do

As a general rule, manufacturers suggest that you not let your fuel level drop below a quarter tank. There are a few reasons for this.

The most obvious is that it can leave you stranded. If your car runs out of fuel, the engine will stop. That means it comes to a halt wherever you are – on the highway, on a country road, in the middle of the city, or out in the middle of nowhere. You’ll have to call for help or walk to the nearest filling station. In addition to being a major inconvenience, it can also put you and your passengers at risk.

Fuel Gauge Showing Almost Empty, Red warning icon light.

It can also damage your vehicle. Your engine runs on gasoline. Without it, it comes to a grinding halt. Without proper levels of gas in the system, it tries to make do with what’s in the system. That can cause components to work harder than necessary, and damage them internally.

Like your fuel pump. It isn’t designed to work without proper levels of fuel. The fuel pump sends fuel from the tank to the engine. The fuel pump relies on full levels of gasoline to keep it cool and lubricated. By driving on low fuel levels, your car isn’t getting proper lubrication, which puts the fuel pump into overdrive trying to keep up.

The fuel pump also has a filter, which can get dirtier faster if you drive with low levels of fuel. Dirt and debris can filter to the bottom of your tank, blocking the filter and causing significant damage to the system.

If fuel isn’t available to work its way through the system, it can take in air instead. Because your engine isn’t designed to work on air, it can cause misfires. You’ll likely feel this in the way of loss of power, hesitation, or vibration.

How does a car act when it’s running out of gas?

As your car runs on the last drop of fuel, it’ll be obvious as it comes to a halt. You’ll experience a brief hesitation as the engine misfires, trying to compensate for lack of fuel. When this happens, try to pull out of traffic to safety. From there, the engine shuts down and your vehicle will lose complete power.

If you reach that point, it’s important to pull over, if possible. Turn on your hazards and move to a safe location. If you know you won’t make it to a gas station, worry about safety first. Move your vehicle out of traffic and away from potential harm.

Then call for help. If a family member is nearby, a friend is in the area, or you have access to emergency road assistance, all can help by providing enough gas to make it to the next gas station. If those aren’t available, call in a tow truck or a non-emergency local police department.

Running out of gas causes damage to your vehicle

Think of fuel as the lifeblood of your vehicle. Without it, it can’t run properly, and will wear out faster and cause more repairs over time. Running out of gas can lead to:

Overheating – if the fuel pump is working harder to move gas into the engine, it can lead to overheating. Without proper cooling, it’ll impact the way your engine operates.

Corrosion of fuel injection system – condensation can start to occur with low fuel levels. This impacts internal temperatures, which can lead to corrosion in the fuel injectors. This can be a big concern for older cars that may still have tin gas tanks instead of the more modern plastic ones.

Clog filters – without gas in the tank, it can draw residue from the bottom. This residue is typically hidden in a full tank, and won’t impact the filters. As residue surfaces, it can start to clog filters, which leads to problems with the fuel pump.

Protect your fuel system

If you let your fuel levels consistently move towards empty, you’ll pay the price both in repair work and in higher fuel bills when you do fill up. Make it a priority to:

Keep your gas at a quarter tank or above
Use quality gas that keeps your vehicle operating well
Control speed or rapid acceleration to increase fuel efficiency
Be aware if you’re nearing empty and take the necessary precautions

And if you’re worried something may be wrong with your fuel pump, injection system, or filters, schedule an inspection today.

Radiator Problems Your Car May Face

August 14, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

What does your car’s radiator do? If you’re like most drivers, you may have a vague idea, but you could never point it out if you looked underneath the hood.

A car radiator is a heat exchanger used to lower the antifreeze temperature as it circulates in your engine. A radiator contains a series of narrow tubes that are designed to disperse heat rapidly, which helps keep the operating temperature of your engine in check.

In addition to the narrow tubes that allow antifreeze to flow, it also has a cooling fan that draws in cool air at the front of the vehicle. This is what helps prevent the engine from overheating.

A radiator is considered to be one of the main pieces of equipment in your vehicle’s cooling system. It’s placed at the front of the engine, where it can take in airflow, which allows circulation for the cooling process. It received a continuous supply of antifreeze, which flows through the engine to keep all parts moving and at the right temperature.

Hot antifreeze moves in while cooled antifreeze moves out. It uses a pump to ensure the proper flow through the system, and is designed to discharge at the appropriate speed. That sums up the entire movement of coolant … as long as the radiator is doing its job.

If any piece of the coolant system isn’t working, it can cause problems.

Common car radiator problems

Just like other parts of your car, the radiator can experience problems if any one piece isn’t working at its optimal level. A regular maintenance schedule is key to keeping it performing at its best. While radiators don’t fail often, the results can be extreme. If the engine overheats, you may well be looking at an entire engine replacement.

How do you know if you have a problem? Like other systems on your car, before radiator problems escalate, it will give off warning signs.

Leaking coolant – While a radiator leak can be caused by several issues, corrosion surrounding the radiator, hoses, and other components is one of the most common. It can be caused by rust, holes or cracks in the hoses, general deterioration, excessive pressure on the system, and more. Luckily, antifreeze/coolant has a distinctive fluid that’s easy to notice if it leaks. Watch for a sticky, bright-colored liquid. Coolant is usually thought of as a green color, but in the past, manufacturers have made it yellow, pink, red, blue, and green. It depends on the brand you use. Without proper levels of coolant, your engine will run hot, until it eventually fails. Getting it checked and fixed is vital to keep your car running.

Malfunctioning thermostat and water pump – A radiator works hand in hand with the thermostat and water pump. If any one of these components stops working, your engine is at risk of running hot. When the water pump malfunctions, the coolant won’t circulate as it should. And if the thermostat goes bad, the system won’t know when to release proper flow of coolant, which can quickly cause the vehicle to overheat. It may stick closed and not release enough, or stick open and not allow your vehicle to reach proper temperature. Bot of these items can put your radiator at risk.

Rust in the radiator – In order for a radiator to operate, it sees a constant flow of liquids and electricity through the system’s metal components. This continuous flow creates the perfect environment for oxidation, rust, and other corrosion to build. When voltage clears a path through the coolant, damage can cause internal rusting, pitting, or flaking inside the cooling system. Rusting eventually leads to cracks and holes, which allow leaking to occur. While rusting in the radiator is common, rusting on the outside can also occur in colder climates where road salt and other winter agents make their way inside your engine compartment. It’s best to inspect underneath the hood regularly to ensure you don’t have a problem. If you notice your antifreeze has turned a brown or reddish color, it’s an indicator it’s been contaminated with rust.

Sludge build-up – Like other fluids inside your vehicle, as coolant ages, it can see a build-up of mineral deposits and other debris. As it accumulates and thickens, it can clog up the radiator, making it difficult to distribute coolant properly throughout the system. Sometimes you can notice this by seeing a reduction in heat into the interior cabin.

Overheating – The radiator, water pump, and thermostat all work together to keep your cooling system running. If one component fails, it can cause problems with your cooling system. You may also find yourself in a situation where you’re sitting in traffic or idling, and the temperature spikes. This could be a result of a failing radiator fan. Modern cars also have an electric fan that draws air into the radiator to ensure it stays cool while you’re idling or moving at a low speed. If this fan breaks, overheating can occur, especially if idling for a while.

Air in the cooling system – A radiator is sealed to ensure maximum flow throughout the cooling system. If air suddenly gets into the system, it can create pockets that will ultimately restrict proper flow of fluid. In most cases, air gets into the system during the radiator flushing process.

Can you repair a radiator, or do you have to replace it?

The cooling system accounts for a large amount of the breakdowns on the road, with overheating one of the most common. Luckily, many of the problems associated with the cooling system can be fixed if caught early enough. The key is in detecting the problem early before it destroys the engine.

When you notice your vehicle in the first stages of overheating, it’s important to bring it to a mechanic quickly for a thorough inspection. If they diagnose the problem early, they can tell you exactly where the problem lies. It may be something as simple as fixing a leaky hose.

Some parts of the cooling system will cost more to repair than others. But if you fix the problem component, it won’t have a chance to escalate to other areas, causing more components to break during the process. A leaky radiator hose will cost less than replacing a water pump.

By allowing a mechanic to check the system early, you’ll save more in potential repair bills, and be back on the road without worries.