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5 Dos and Don'ts for Better Gas Mileage

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:42:52 GMT

If your car has been experiencing poor gas mileage, it may not be the fault of your automobile. Cars do not run efficiently for many reasons. Fortunately, there are a few ways to correct the problem of poor fuel economy. Avoid having to fuel your car so very often by following a few dos and don'ts. Here is what you need to do now.

1. DO Check Your Vehicle's Tire Pressure Regularly

Failing to check your car's tire pressure on a routine basis may lead to problems, in particular that of poor gas mileage. Experts believe that if tires drop one PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), 0.4 percent of the vehicle's gas mileage will be reduced. The numbers may not seem significant, but it can add up.

The simple way around this is to check your vehicle's tire pressure on a weekly basis. Refer to your auto manufacturer's recommendations for adequate tire pressure. Find information in your owner's manual. When you note that tire pressure has drops below that recommendation, it is time to inflate the tires.

Also, remember this tip: If you live in a particular cold climate, wintertime may be especially tough on your tire's air pressure. Cold temperatures tend to make air pressure in tires deflate faster. A tire gauge can be found at your auto repair or mechanic shop, or you may request to have your tires inflated when you go in for an oil change or other maintenance service.

2. DON'T Run Your Car's Air Conditioner Unless Necessary

Try not to run the air conditioning in your vehicle on every warm day. If you can manage it, open the windows instead. Running your auto's air conditioner constantly will waste fuel and reduce your gas mileage to some extent.

When driving on city streets, turn off your air conditioner and open windows. On the highway, switch your AC on as needed.

Also, remember that your air conditioner will need to work harder if your car and engine is running hot. It is logical that when the car is working harder, more gas will be consumed. To avoid overheating your car, park it in a shaded area out of direct sunlight, or park it in a garage if possible.

3. DO Choose the Right Type of Motor Oil for Your Vehicle

Check your vehicle's owner manual. If your auto calls for a low viscosity motor oil, stick with that type.

Lower viscosity type motor oils are known to increase gas mileage. Your vehicle's fuel economy may also improve by switching to a synthetic motor oil.

Equally important is that you don't neglect to change the oil in your car as recommended. Keep track of your last oil change so you will know when it is due for another change.

4. DON'T Drive With Clogged Fuel Injectors

Your car's fuel injector's work in conjunction with the gas in your vehicle. If the fuel injectors become clogged, you may experience poor fuel economy. After thousands of miles of driving, deposits may build up on the injectors. Speak with a mechanic about how getting an evaluation and have the problem corrected.

5. DO Correct Your Bad Driving Habits

If you have a habit of driving too fast or constantly accelerating, you may be wasting gas. When you tend to accelerate suddenly, and on a frequent basis, your car may be guzzling gas in the process. Slow down when necessary and put an end on sudden acceleration. You may see an improvement in your gas mileage.

Visit your auto service dealer today for more advice and routine maintenance that may help you boost your vehicle's fuel economy.

Your Brakes May Be Telling You Something; Are You Listening?

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 03 Jan 2020 02:11:56 GMT

Your car depends on a lot of systems, and one of those is the brakes. Without working brakes, the vehicle will not stop correctly and can be very dangerous to drive. You can know when something is wrong with the brakes when you pay attention to the following cues your car may give you.

Dash Warning Lights

The brake warning light on the dash of your car or truck may come on even when you don't see a problem. The warning light often indicates a problem with the pressure in the brake system or another issue that the sensor has picked up.

You may not be able to determine what the light means unless you have the proper diagnostic equipment to read the information from the computer. The computer will store the data, but often it is in the form of a code that needs the dealership or a repair shop to determine the problem.

If the light is on and the car appears to be okay, do not ignore the light. The light is on for a reason, and just because you can't see or feel the problem does not mean no problem exists.

Shimmy, Shakes, and Vibrations

One of the first signs of brake problems may be a shake in the steering wheel or a pulse in the brake pedal as you apply the brakes. Often this shake gets worse if you press the brake pedal harder, and may completely stop once you take your foot off the brakes.

A shaking feeling in the car when you apply the brakes is often a sign of a brake rotor that has a warp in it. The rotor can warp from heat, especially if you drive in heavy traffic and have to use the brakes a lot. Damage to the rotor can also be a result of poor maintenance, as brakes are one of the most overlooked items on the car until they start to malfunction.

The solution is sometimes as simple as getting the rotor replaced, but some other things can cause a shake even though they are not part of the brake system. A bad wheel bearing, a weak tie rod, or a loose ball joint can all allow the wheel or suspension to shake when you brake.

Bumps, Bangs, and Strange Noises

Noises from under your car can be hard to diagnose sometimes, but if the sound starts as you apply the brakes, you can bet that there is a problem in the brake system.

Scraping or Grinding

A scraping or grinding noise the comes from under the car when you apply the brakes are often a result of a worn brake pad. If the friction material wears off the pad and the backing plate makes contact with the rotor, the metal on metal contact can often cause this sound.

Clunking or Banging

A clunk, thump, or bang when you apply the brakes is scary, and can definitely be a sign of a problem with the brakes. Often these kinds of sounds indicate some unwanted movement in the brake system. Sometimes a brake pad can move in the brake caliper, which will make the banging or clunking sound.

Brake pad movement is not normal, and if you continue to hear it when you apply the brakes, you need to have a mechanic check the brakes. A retainer may have come loose, and while the pads are not likely to fall out, they can move enough to jam the caliper and stop it from working correctly.

If your car or truck is telling you that something is wrong, bring your vehicle to Redford Auto Repair , and one of our technicians will inspect the brakes for you. Once we pin down the problem, we can fix your car quickly and get you back on the road safely.

Cooling System Problems That Could Cause Your Car to Overheat

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 20:54:10 GMT

The engine in your car or truck produces heat as it runs. Keeping the heat in check is critical because if the engine gets too hot, damage can occur inside it. The cooling system in your vehicle should keep the engine cool as long as it is working properly. But if the system isn't working properly, you need to fix the problem right away to avoid long-term damage to the engine.

Engine Overheating

Overheating problems can be the result of a lot of things, but there are some basic things to check if you are experiencing problems with overheating.

Low Coolant Level

A common cause of engine overheating is low coolant levels in the cooling system. The cooling system is a closed system, meaning it should not leak, but some problems can allow it to escape over time. If the leak is slow enough, you may not notice a problem until the temperature starts to rise.

Checking the coolant level is pretty easy, but you have to wait until the engine is cool. If you open the system while it is hot, hot coolant can spray out. The liquid gets hot enough to cause severe burns. If you do not have experience with checking the cooling system, you should take the car to a garage and have the technician check the coolant level for you.

Stuck Thermostat

Another common problem that can cause your engine to overheat is a thermostat in the cooling system that is stuck in the closed position. If the thermostat is closed, the coolant cannot circulate through the system properly and the engine will overheat.

The thermostat on most cars is typically where the coolant from the radiator enters the engine. To check and change the thermostat, a technician will likely have to partially drain the system and disassemble the water neck where the coolant enters the engine block. This allows them to expose them thermostat and perform any necessary work.

Restrictions in the Radiator

If the radiator in your car is old, rust and sludge can build up inside the cooling tubes where the coolant passes through the system. The result is a lower than normal amount of water passing through the radiator and the coolant not dropping in temperature properly. As the temperature climbs, the situation compounds on itself and the engine will eventually overheat.

Mechanical Problems

The cooling system has several mechanical components in it that can cause problems if these parts stop working as well.

Water Pump Failure

The single largest mechanical part of the cooling system is the water pump. The water pump is a vane-style pump that is driven off the engine and circulates the coolant through the system. If the pump fails, the coolant flow will stop and the engine will overheat.

Most of the time, if the water pump fails, it is a bearing in the pump that seizes or the seal on the pump shaft that fails. The result is a catastrophic failure and the temperature will rise extremely quickly. Often the failure is followed by copious amounts of steam coming from under the hood and coolant leaking from the pump.

Cooling Fan Failure

Most modern cars have either a mechanical fan that runs off the engine via a pulley and belt or an electric cooling fan that helps move air through the radiator. If this fan stops working, the coolant will rise in temperature and eventually overheat.

In cooler weather, the temperature change may not happen as quickly as it would in the summertime. However, the fan is still a critical part of the system. If the fan is not working, replacing or repairing it should be a priority.

If you are experiencing higher than normal engine temperatures or your car is overheating, Redford Auto Repair can help. Our technicians can diagnose the problem and quickly resolve it for you. Stop in and see us for a cooling system check to head off cooling system issues before they start.

Learn the Basics of Your Car's Tire Specifications

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 20:27:21 GMT

When buying new tires, your biggest concern may be the cost. However, many other factors should affect your decision, such as how often you will be driving, whether you will be towing items, and what weather conditions you will be driving in.

To help you find the most suitable tires for your vehicle, you should learn the basics of tire specifications. These codes are branded on the side of tires. But they are meaningless unless you can understand what they stand for.

What are Some Examples of Tire Specifications?

Tire specifications can tell you how tall and wide your tires are. They also can tell you which kinds of cars the tires are suited for, which types of weather they are suited for, and the recommended air pressure.

If you take a look at your tires, you may see a combination of numbers and letters, such as P235/45R19 100 V M+S.

The first letter designates which kind of vehicle this tire can fit on. P stands for a passenger vehicle, like a sedan. LT stands for light truck, meaning that those tires can be used for pick-up trucks, SUVS, and other vehicles that can tow or carry more weight.

The next number indicates the tire width (in millimeters), and the number after that indicates the ratio between the sidewall height and width.

If your tire has an R, D, or B followed by a number, then that information will tell you the tire's construction rating. Most tires today have a radial construction, or R. Since the sidewalls and treads of radial tires work as two independent features instead of using overlapping rubber plies, they are able to withstand more internal air pressure and weight.

Due to their durability, radial tires are used more often compared to bias ply (D) or belted (B).

After the construction information, you may see the speed rating. Speed ratings on your tires should match your vehicle's top speed capabilities.

Lastly, you may see additional numbers for the ideal air pressure. Or you may see letters like M+S. These letters indicate that the tires are built for mud and snow, meaning that they can be used as winter tires and do well in poor weather conditions.

How Can You Use Tire Specifications to Your Advantage?

While the dealership that you bought the car from may have tire recommendations for your make and model, you may want to get tires from a third-party auto service. It's important that you go into the auto shop knowing what you're looking for. You could use your previous tires as a guide, or you can use the recommended specifications for your vehicle.

The recommended specifications are listed in your owner's manual, and they are often listed on either the

The driver side door jamb
The glove box
or The gas tank cover

If you compare the recommended specifications to your current tires, you may find that your tires aren't in the right range for your vehicle. You will want to take advantage of the recommended specifications so you can avoid common pitfalls.

For example, using the wrong tires can cause premature wear or bald tires. If your tires are wearing prematurely or unevenly, this can lead to alignment issues that will need to be fixed by an auto shop.

If you've been driving with tires in inclement weather and they aren't certified for mud and snow, then you could be putting your life and others at risk if you lose control of your vehicle. Even if you have good tires for winter, you must pay attention to the other specifications as well. For instance, some tire chains cannot be put on tires that are too large or else the wheel well will be damaged.

Besides measurements, don't forget about the recommended air pressure. Tires that aren't adequately filled can cause your car to hydroplane.

As you can see, by taking advantage of the recommended tire specifications you will avoid premature wear and tear on your car, and you can make your car easier to handle and safer to drive.

Contact Redford Auto Repair if you need help finding the right tires for your vehicle.

6 Reasons Why Your Transmission Needs Fluid

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 21:45:17 GMT

One of the most important fluids in your vehicle is transmission fluid. You need to keep an adequate amount of transmission fluid in your vehicle at all times to avoid catastrophic mechanical issues.

Transmission malfunctions cost vehicles owners a lot of money and render a vehicle useless. Vehicle owners should, therefore, make transmission maintenance like fluid changes a priority.

When you understand why a vehicle needs transmission fluid, you become aware of what signs indicate low transmission fluid levels. The following are six important reasons why your vehicle's transmission needs fluid.

1. Optimal Efficiency

Transmission fluid lubricates the moving parts of a vehicle's transmission. Without this lubrication, parts experience a greater amount of friction when they move against one another.

Transmission parts that aren't adequately lubricated require more effort to move. Transmission fluid is, therefore, important to ensure peak efficiency and minimize the amount of energy a vehicle must expend to run.

2. Smooth Gears

Because transmission fluid lubricates mechanical components of the transmission, it also ensures smooth gear shifting. Unusual noises or resistance when the driver shifts gears indicates that transmission fluid is likely low.

Without lubrication, gears grind, slip, or stick when the driver shifts between them. Inadequate lubrication also prevents a vehicle from successfully getting into the appropriate gear.

Transmission fluid makes a vehicle drive more smoothly. Transmission fluid also makes a vehicle safer to operate and prevents mechanical damage.

3. Prolonged Transmission Lifespan

Transmission fluid prolongs the lifespan of transmission components, thanks to the fact that transmission fluid minimizes wear and tear on mechanical parts.

Without the lubrication from transmission fluid, friction between moving parts wears away mechanical materials and causes parts to age more quickly.

Transmission components are expensive to replace. When you keep an adequate amount of quality transmission fluid in your vehicle, you save yourself money over time by protecting valuable transmission components from premature wear and tear.

4. Prevention of Overheating

Lubrication is not the only function of transmission fluid. Transmission fluid also works as a coolant within the transmission.

As transmission fluid circulates through the transmission, it cools down moving mechanical parts that get progressively hotter as the vehicle runs. Transmission fluid also cools down transmission parts by minimizing heat that friction created.

Heat causes transmission failure if the heat isn't regulated by clean transmission fluid. Transmission fluid develops a burnt smell as it degrades and loses its ability to act as a lubricant and coolant. Transmission fluid that smells burnt is a major sign that a transmission fluid change is necessary.

5. Importance of Reliable Transmission Operation

Transmission fluid is one of the most important vehicle fluids because the transmission is one of the most important mechanical systems of a vehicle.

A vehicle won't run without a properly functioning transmission. A vehicle transmission is - along with the engine - one of the most valuable components of a vehicle. Transmission fluid protects this vital mechanical asset and ensures that a vehicle continues to run properly.

6. Improvement of Performance

Transmission fluid improves a vehicle's performance. Because transmission fluid takes stress off mechanical components, this makes a transmission stronger and more dependable.

Adequate transmission fluid levels are especially important in situations where strong performance is necessary such as when a vehicle is used in towing. Towing a trailer or another piece of equipment puts added stress on a vehicle transmission.

You need to need to monitor transmission fluid levels closely in your vehicle if you use your vehicle to tow regularly.

If you need to have a professional look at your transmission, contact us at Redford Auto Repair to set up an appointment.

Some of the Parts That Help Control Your Car's Emissions

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 17:52:56 GMT

While most people understand a smog or emissions test is needed to register a vehicle, they know nothing about the emissions and exhaust systems. The main objective of the emissions system is to reduce the amount of toxic gases that are released from your vehicle. Here is some information about the different parts and what they do to prevent your vehicle from causing too much air pollution.

Exhaust Manifold

Emission control starts with the exhaust manifold. Connected directly to the engine block, it collects exhaust gasses from all the cylinder chambers and funnels them to the catalytic converter. In the manifold engine noises are reduced, the air-fuel ratio is checked, and the heated exhaust gases start to cool down.

If the manifold is cracked or damaged, not only will the engine be louder, you may also feel the heat come up through the floorboard. In addition, you may notice the gas pedal shakes a bit. A damaged manifold will cause damage to the catalytic converter. If you suspect something is wrong, get it checked and fixed as soon as possible to avoid a higher repair bill.

Inside the manifold are two oxygen sensors. When the air-fuel mixture is wrong, the sensor sends a message to the engine to either or decrease the amount of fuel sent to the combustion chamber.

The correct air-fuel mixture keeps the vehicle running at peak performance and burns the fuel more efficiently so there is less released into the atmosphere. If you realize the gas mileage of the vehicle has suddenly dropped, have a mechanic check the oxygen sensors.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter sits between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. The job of the catalytic converter is to change hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water. A honeycomb-like structure of platinum and/or palladium acts as the catalyst for the conversion. As the harmful gases pass through the honeycomb they are oxidized into harmless components.

If you or your passengers start to feel weak, dizzy, or nauseous, the pipe leading to the catalytic converter and the converter itself should be inspected. When there is a leak in the system or a problem within the converter, carbon monoxide can fill the passenger area of the vehicle. Inhaling carbon monoxide makes people ill and if a person is exposed to too much of this gas it is deadly.

EGR Valve

The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve opens and shuts to return a small portion of the exhaust gas back into the engine to reduce the temperature in the combustion chamber. A lower temperature burns more of the nitrogen oxide, reducing the amount that pollutes the air.

The lower temperature also prevents early detonation in the cylinder chamber. When there is early detonation the pistons move before they should, hitting the top of the cylinder too fast and hard, damaging the internal parts of the engine. If you hear a rhythmic ping or knock from the engine, it could be a bad EGR valve.

Emission control is more important than being able to register your vehicle. It is also vital to the performance and efficiency of the automobile and the health and safety of the people inside the car. If you suspect your car's emission isn't functioning like it should, schedule an appointment to have it repaired.

Contact Redford Auto Repair when you are in need of emission testing for vehicle registration and any time your vehicle's performance starts to dwindle. We will not only make sure the vehicle is compliant with emissions regulations, but will also make sure the vehicle is performing well and there are no dangerous gases getting into the cab.

What To Do If Your Check Engine Light Comes On

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 20:57:18 GMT

The check engine light in your car is there to make you aware of a potential problem with a part of the car, but it can be activated by many different problems in the vehicle, some of them very minor and others that are critical to the car's operation.

Check Your Gauges

If the check engine light in your car comes on unexpectedly check the gauges on the dash for anything out of the ordinary. Make sure your engine temperature, oil pressure, an electrical system voltage are all running in the safe zone on the gauges. Not all new cars have a full gauge package, so you may not be able to monitor those systems except through the check engine light or other notifications on the dash.

Check the Outside of the Car

One of the first things you should do if your check engine light comes on is to get out and check around your car. If the car smells extremely hot, has steam coming from under the hood, or smoke coming from under the car, do not drive the car any further. Call a tow service and have them take your car to your garage or a service center.

Check the Gas Cap

While it might seem strange, check the gas cap on your car to make sure it is tight if the check engine light is on. One of the most common codes associated with check engine light activation is from the EVAP system. If the gas cap seal is faulty, fumes may be escaping from the tank.

This condition can cause activation of the check engine light, so take the cap off and put it back on, making sure it’s tight and oriented properly.

Scan for Codes

Take your car to the nearest service center and have them scan the computer for error codes. The error codes will help diagnose the problem. Although, with a basic scanner, it is hard to pinpoint the exact cause because one code may mean several things.

Often people take their cars to a local auto parts store for a free scan to determine the problem. Unfortunately, most of these stores are using small handheld scanners that give vague codes and make the problem hard to pinpoint, which can be frustrating.

Unseen Problems Your Garage Can Check

There are several common failures that will cause an activation of the check engine light in your car. Unfortunately, many of those are not something you can physically check. These unseen problems require a much larger engine scanning system to pinpoint.

Mass Air Flow Sensor

The map sensor is responsible for tracking the amount of air that is flowing into the engine. The air-fuel ratio needs to be correct or the engine may run rich or lean. The engine computer depends on this sensor in order to build a proper fuel map and keep your engine running properly.

Oxygen Sensors

The oxygen sensors are located in the car's exhaust system and track the amount of oxygen that is in the burned gas which is passing through the system. If the O2 sensor is not working properly, the engine computer has a hard time determining if the fuel mix is too rich or too lean.

Both of these sensors are critical to the engine running properly and commonly trigger check engine light activations. They are also sometimes hard to diagnose.

At Redford Auto Repair , we can help you determine what sensor or problem exists and is causing your check engine light to come on. Our full-service shop and knowledgeable technicians will work with you to find the solution and get your car back on the road. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.

First-Time Driver? 5 Ways to Protect Your Car

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 19:55:14 GMT

If you're about to become the proud owner of your first car, you're probably excited to head out onto the highway. However, before you do that, you need to understand the importance of auto maintenance. The first two things you need to know are that your gas tank should be kept filled and your tires should be kept inflated. Inadequate tire pressure and a low gas tank can cause problems for your cars performance.

Now, here are five additional things that you need to know about your car. These five tips will help you avoid problems.

1. Avoid Tight Turns

If you've been a passenger with someone who constantly makes tight turns, you’ll need to avoid mimicking them. Those tight turns can cause serious problems. If you hit the curb, you could knock out the suspension on your car. You may cause damage your tires and wheels. Not only that, but those curb checks can also damage your steering wheel rod. To avoid contact with the curb, always give yourself enough room to make a smooth turn.

2. Apply Even Brake Pressure

If you haven't been driving for long, you may still be in the habit of hard brakes. You may even ride the brake while you travel down hills and steep inclines. You want to avoid those habits. Your brakes need just enough pressure to bring your car to a smooth and complete stop. Each time you slam on your brakes, your brake pads and rotors pay the price.

Not only that, but when you ride the brakes down hills, your brake pads and rotors overheat. Unfortunately, that action causes your brakes to wear out much faster than they should. The best way to protect your brakes is to apply smooth, even pressure each time you come to a stop. Also, switch to low gear on the hills. That way, you don't have to ride the brake to maintain a comfortable speed.

3. Watch the Music Volume

If you're used to riding in cars with the volume turned up, you want to avoid that habit now that you'll be the one behind the wheel. When you drive with the volume turned up on your music, you can't hear the warning signs that your car may try to send you.

For instance, you may not hear squeals that could come from your brakes or sounds that could point toward engine problems. To make sure you can identify problems quickly, keep your music turned down while you drive.

4. Schedule Your Vehicle Maintenance

If this will be your first experience with vehicle responsibility, plan out your maintenance needs. As soon as you get your car, log on to your calendar on your smart phone and schedule an oil change for three months from when you get your car. Next, program dates for brake inspections and other service needs. That way, you won't need to worry about missed maintenance appointments.

5. Pay Attention to the Lights

If you've never paid attention to a dashboard before, you may not realize how many indicator lights it has. Each one of those indicator lights is designed to notify you of a particular issue. For example, some of those indicator lights remind you to put your seat belt on or turn your lights off.

However, other indicator lights identify serious problems. Now that you own your first car, familiarize yourself with those indicator lights. If the check engine light, airbag indicator, or oil pressure light comes on, get your car to a repair shop as soon as possible.

Now that you own your first car, use the tips provided here to keep things running smoothly. If you run into problems with your car and are in the Detroit area, contact us at Redford Auto Repair . We're here to take care of all your vehicle maintenance and repair needs.

3 Common Charging System Problems Your Car May Have

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 06 May 2019 09:14:43 GMT

The charging system in your vehicle is critical to its operation. However, many common issues, such as the battery or alternator, can affect the charging system. Issues that affect the charging system need addressing as soon as you know you have a problem — or you may find yourself stranded with a car that will not start or run.

1. Dead Battery

One of the most common problems that indicates a charging system problem is a dead battery. First, you likely need to determine the cause. For example, if the battery is old, it may no longer hold a charge. Two to five years is the common life of an automotive battery, so if yours is older than that, you may need a replacement.

Testing the battery is not difficult, but if you can get it to a parts shop that offers free battery testing, you will get a full load test and report on the condition of the battery and not have to guess whether it is bad or not.

If the battery tests fine, check the connectors on the battery and the alternator. Corrosion on the terminals can reduce the conductivity, causing low charge condition.

2. Bad Alternator

Alternators are typically reliable and you may never have to change one, but some things can go wrong with the alternator that will cause it to fail.

The most common of these is a bad voltage regulator. When the alternator works and produces electricity, the voltage regulator inside the unit controls how much of that electricity goes to the car’s charging system.

Since the car has a twelve-volt system, if the alternator had no control over it, the potential for a much higher voltage output would be possible. If the voltage regulator fails, this is essentially what happens and the overvolt condition can damage the battery or other parts of the car.

On the other side of the coin, the voltage regulator may limit the voltage more than it should, keeping the battery from fully charging and failing to power the rest of the electrical system properly.

If you drive your car at night with the headlights on, and the alternator does not work at full output, the additional power for the lights and the ignition system of the car will come from the battery, not the alternator. This situation can result in a battery that is undercharged or completely dead. Have a professional check the alternator for proper function and replace it if it does not work properly.

3. Worn or Broken Belts

Another common problem that can cause the charging system to fail is a broken alternator belt or one that is worn so bad it slips badly. If the alternator works properly but the belt doesn’t spin it fast enough, the voltage output can drop and cause the system to act as though the alternator doesn’t work.

If the belt breaks while you drive the car, you may not notice it right away, but newer cars use one belt to drive everything so you may notice the car overheating, the warning lights on the dash coming on, or the steering becoming heavy, because none of the accessories work.

At Redford Auto Repair , our technicians can check all the components in your electrical or charging system to find the problem. We offer some of the most affordable rates around while maintaining the highest standard of service for your car. Give us a call to discuss your situation and set up an appointment so we can get your car back on the road for you. We look forward to seeing you.

Quick Guide to Serpentine Belt Performance and Problems

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 02:44:50 GMT

The serpentine belt in your vehicle can cause a bundle of problems if it becomes worn or fails. Here's some information about what serpentine belts do, how to tell if they're failing, and how long a serpentine belt should last.

Serpentine Belts Keep Things Spinning

Manufacturers used to install individual belts for a variety of under-the-hood components. Today, one drive belt, called the serpentine belt, powers the majority of belt-driven parts in vehicles.

The serpentine belt wraps around the accessory pulleys of the components it powers. The serpentine belt may spin over idler pulleys which keep the serpentine belt in its snake-like configuration and help guide the belt as it moves.

The following auto accessories are powered by a serpentine belt:

Alternator
Power steering pump
Air conditioning compressor
Water pump
Air pump

Most serpentine belts are grooved on the facing side and smooth on the back side. The grooved side normally powers the pulleys, but the back side can power pulleys on some vehicles.

Bad Serpentine Belts Give Off Signs

A wise vehicle owner will take a look at their serpentine belt every so often to check for signs of wear. Look for fraying, notches, missing chunks, too much slack on the belt, and misalignment on the pulleys.

Other visual signs of serpentine belt issues include:

Cracking
Abrasions
Rib separation
Uneven wear on ribs or belt
Malformation or melting

A squealing or noisy belt is one of the most common symptoms of a slipping or worn serpentine belt. Squealing can be more pronounced when you're climbing a hill and running your heater or air conditioning at the same time.

Squealing can also occur after you drive over deep puddles or have an undercarriage car wash. In this case, the screeching should stop once the belt dries.

A broken serpentine belt may make a flopping or flapping sound under the hood if it's frayed or completely breaks away. You may hear tiny frequent ticks under the hood when you accelerate as broken bits of the serpentine belt fly into other components.

Bad Serpentine Belts Cause Vehicle Performance Issues

If your serpentine belt is failing, you may notice performance issues with your vehicle. The vehicle may frequently overheat. Your air conditioning or power steering may fail to work or not work properly. You may notice your vehicle battery failing to recharge if the alternator is affected by a bad serpentine belt.

Additional signs of a possibly bad serpentine belt include:

Flickering lights on start up
Failure to start
Dimmed headlights
Continuously illuminated amperage light

Your car may frequently stall while driving if the serpentine belt isn't doing its job. If the belt breaks as you're driving, eventually the battery will die, and the belt could do other damage as it flops around under the hood.

Serpentine Belts Last for Many Miles

Modern serpentine belts are designed to last around 100,000 driving miles. However, experts suggest that you schedule replacement of the serpentine belt every 50,000 to 60,000 miles to be on the safe side. If your serpentine belt is installed with a self-tensioning device, ask your mechanic to replace the tensioner when they replace your serpentine belt.

Have your mechanic inspect your serpentine belt each time you get an oil change if you aren't confident in your own abilities to spot problems. The extra drive-belt checks can keep you from ending up stranded on the side of the road.

If you're experiencing any of the above serpentine belt symptoms with your vehicle in the Detroit, Michigan area, contact Redford Auto Repair right away. We have convenient auto repair facilities in the Greater Detroit area including shops in Redford, Taylor, Westland, Southfield, and Garden City.

5 Signs That Your Car Needs an Alignment

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 20:45:25 GMT

Improper car alignment can result in poor handling and cause parts to wear prematurely. The alignment is easy to check when you take your car to the shop for new tires or an oil change. Any shop with an alignment rack can check it quickly and let you know if it needs attention.

If the alignment is off, the car will give you some signs that there is a problem, so if you watch for them, you can catch the problem early and correct it before other damage occurs.

1. Steering Wheel Alignment

One of the first and probably most obvious signs that there is an alignment issue with your car is right in front of you. The steering wheel in your vehicle should be straight when the wheels are pointed straight down the road.

If the wheel is off to the left or the right, it is because something in the front end is not adjusted correctly or is out of alignment. If you notice your wheel is no longer straight, then take the car in and have the front end checked so you can resolve the issue right away.

2. Handling Issues

Another sign that something is not right is if your car is pulling left or right when going down the road. Be careful with this issue, though. If the road is not flat, a car with a proper alignment may feel as though it is pulling, when in fact, it is following the slope of the road. On a flat road, your car should not move to the left or right without steering input. If it does, your alignment is off, and the car needs to be checked out.

3. Uneven Tire Wear

Often, the front tires on your car will wear unevenly if the front end alignment is off. The tires may wear more on one side than the other, which can indicate a camber problem. In other words, the tires may be leaning in or out instead of being straight up and down on the hubs. The most common reason for this is worn suspension parts, but it can also be because the adjustment is off.

The tires are part of your suspension system, and if they are wearing, the car is going to drive different than it was intended. While tire wear can be related to improper inflation, wear on one edge of the tire and not the other is more often than not an alignment issue.

4. Steering Wheel Vibration

If you are feeling a vibration in the steering wheel, it may be related to worn front end parts or an alignment issue. In either case, the wheel should not vibrate, and any vibration here may indicate a vibration in the suspension system that you are feeling in the wheel.

The front suspension needs to be inspected right away if you have a vibration of any degree, because if something is loose or worn enough to cause this behavior, a part could be failing.

5. Steering Wheel Return

The steering wheel in your car should return to center almost on its own when you complete a turn and are straightening out the car on the road. If the wheel does not return on its own, there is a problem in the front end, and the alignment needs to be checked right away.

At Redford Auto Repair, our alignment specialists will check your car's alignment and let you know what needs to be corrected. Come by or call for an appointment today. The sooner you can detect a problem and get it fixed, the better your car will be.

Air Conditioner Problems Caused By Driving on Dirt Roads

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 17:31:55 GMT

Though people who live in the city might find this fact hard to believe, many people across the nation still live on dirt roads. And those who do live on dirt roads will likely experience issues with their car’s air conditioner that those in the city do not. These issues are triggered by excessive dirt and range in severity from a minor annoyance to a severe problem.

Dirt Roads May Cause Leaking Water

Cars that regularly drive down dirt roads will collect much debris in what is known as the condensate drain of their air conditioner. This drain is designed to collect condensation from the air conditioner unit and drain out any excess moisture to keep the unit running smoothly.

However, excessive debris from a dirt road may clog this drain and cause issues, such as excessive water leaks. And, in some cases, this leaking water could lead to other problems in the HVAC system, such as a potent and disturbing smell.

Dirt Roads May Trigger a Nasty Smell

While water leaking from an air conditioning system might not seem dangerous, the nasty smell emanating from the vents might cause some concern. These smells typically occur when dirt and other filth in the evaporator case of the air conditioner fuel the growth of mold. Mold in the evaporator case will smell quite potent and will spread spores throughout the ducts of the vehicle.

As this mold spreads, the smell throughout the car will continue to worsen. Most people compare this scent, unfavorably, to that of a gym locker. In fact, these stenches are caused by mold and should be easy to prevent. Unfortunately, people who don't take steps to avoid this problem open their car up to excessive mold — and, even worse, the chance for severe allergic reactions.

Dirt Roads May Trigger Allergic Reactions

As cars drive down dirt roads, their air conditioning unit will suck up much debris and deposit it in the air filter. This collection of dirt and detritus can be dangerous to a person's health, especially if the person suffers from allergic reactions. For example, many types of bacteria are likely to grow in a dirty filter and spread through a car.

And even if bacteria doesn't affect a car, allergens will likely still spread through the ducts of the vehicle. These allergens may trigger a multitude of allergic reactions in drivers and passengers, including red eyes, sneezing, and even anaphylactic shock. Therefore, individuals who live on dirt roads need to take steps to ensure that this problem doesn't affect them.

Dirt Roads Make Regular Air Conditioner Flushes Necessary

When dirt roads affect the operation of a car's air conditioner, owners must take steps to clean out HVAC system with a good flush. Repair specialists Meineke suggests a detailed process that includes taking apart the case of the air conditioning unit, flushing out individual pieces with a vacuum, wiping down the surface with a cloth, cleaning out the ducts, and cleaning the accumulator.

DIY repair techniques like these provide in-the-know car owners with the chance to take their air conditioning repairs into their own hands. However, drivers who have never worked with an engine before or who have minimal mechanical skills should never perform these types of repairs. An improper repair or cleaning job may trigger severe problems.

Dirt Roads Don't Have to Ruin a Car's Air Conditioning

You can take proactive steps — regular flushes and proper interior cleaning — to prevent the above-mentioned problems from occurring. If you find that your car's air conditioner just won't respond, please call us at Redford Auto Repair . We'll help you take care of your car’s air conditioner.

3 Critical Components in a Power Steering System

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 15:35:00 GMT

If you understand how a power steering system works, you stand a better chance of recognizing common problems. Learn about three components of this system.

Optimal Performance for Your Vehicle and a Comfortable Ride for You

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 09 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Many of the heating and cooling components in your vehicle are designed to keep both your vehicle and its occupants at an optimal temperature. When one of these components fails, it can result in discomfort for the occupants at best, and a breakdown and possible engine damage in a worst-case scenario.

That's why it's important to keep your eyes open for signs of possible trouble with the heating and cooling system and to have the system checked periodically for necessary repairs. These proactive measures can prevent an air conditioner failure in the middle of summer, possibly with a complimentary breakdown from overheating in the middle of a busy highway.

Cabin Heating and Cooling Issues

When the cabin section of your vehicle, which is the interior seating area, is no longer cooling or heating efficiently, it is likely the result of the failure of a component of the system that is designed specifically for comfort. There are separate issues that must be addressed, depending upon which service is delivering sub-par performance.

Air Conditioning

If your air conditioner is blowing only moderately cooler air or is blowing only warm air, it's likely that a refrigerant leak has occurred. This problem will not affect your vehicle's performance at first, but a leak can also allow moisture to enter the system, which can cause serious issues over time, so it's best to get any leaks repaired

While refrigerant can leak naturally at a very slow pace over several years, it's more likely to occur from degradation of rubber o-rings, seals, and hoses. A service mechanic can add a special dye to remaining refrigerant to determine the origin of the leak and make necessary repairs.

Heating

If the rest of your vehicle's heating and cooling system is functioning normally, but you're not getting any heat in the cabin section, it's likely a problem with the heater core. Hot coolant from the engine will normally pass through the heater core, which is a flat rectangular component installed under the dashboard.

The fan that blows heated and cooled air into your vehicle's cabin draws heat from the heated coolant with the heater core when you turn your interior fan to the heat setting. However, over time, the heater core can become blocked by an accumulation of contaminants, reducing the flow of heated coolant into the core. Replacement of the heater core will return your cabin heater to its former glory.

Engine Cooling Issues

You can be proactive in preventing engine heating and cooling problems by keeping an eye on your coolant level. You can check the coolant level by inspecting the white plastic overflow tank beside your engine. The coolant level should be between the full and low marks on the side of the tank. If it needs coolant, use only the grade of coolant recommended in the manufacturer's maintenance guide.

While it is natural for coolant to spill out of the overflow tank onto the ground because of expansion on hot summer days, the level should not drop enough that you must add coolant on a regular basis. Check the ground under the hoses and radiator for possible leaks.

Your engine needs to be cooled to remain operational. Both heating and cooling require direction from the vehicle's thermostat, which regulates the temperature of the engine by controlling the flow of coolant. A stuck or defective thermostat can remain shut, blocking the flow of coolant through the engine. This can result in overheating and engine failure.

Signs of potential overheating include your vehicle's temperature gauge climbing above the midpoint between hot and cold. If the temperature gauge reaches the red zone at the top of the gauge, you must pull off the road as quickly as possible and shut off the engine.

You may also smell the sweet chemical smell of engine coolant or notice steam rising from under the hood of your vehicle. Shut off the engine as soon as possible and keep the hood closed to avoid scalding burns from the hot coolant, and get your vehicle to a repair shop.

If you're in the Greater Detroit area, look to Redford Auto Repair to keep both you and your vehicle at a comfortable temperature.

Have a Mechanic Inspect a Fixer-Upper Before You Buy

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 21:13:00 GMT

People sell fixer-upper vehicles all the time, using a low price tag to entice buyers to purchase their poorly running or non-functioning vehicles.

Understanding the Brake Rotors on Your Car

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 02:48:00 GMT

Most people appreciate the importance that brakes play on their automotive safety. Yet when it comes to understanding the particulars of how brakes work, those same people often remain in the dark. Unfortunately, this lack of understanding increases the likelihood of something going wrong.

Don't Go Broke at the Pump - 3 Underlying Issues That Reduce Fuel Economy

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Every car needs fuel to function. However, every car owner doesn't have to spend a fortune on this necessity.

4 Signs You Need to Replace Your Spark Plugs

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 09:00:00 GMT

Learn four early warning signs you should head to a mechanic to replace your spark plugs before they fail completely and leave you stranded.

Frequently Asked Questions about Front End Inspections

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 03:45:00 GMT

Properly maintaining your car is one of the best ways to protect your car from unexpectedly failing. One important type of maintenance is front end inspections.

Five Things to Keep Your Car in Top Shape

websitebuilder@thryv.com — Wed, 30 Aug 2017 15:32:00 GMT

Owning a car is a little like dating. In the beginning, it’s exhilarating and fun. Later down the road, after spending what seems like a fortune on dates, gifts and other special gestures, there eventually comes the disagreements, the heartbreak and perhaps the breakup.