Chantilly Auto Repair

Flashing and a Steady Check Engine Light - What are the Differences? You must always pay attention and get to the source of the check engine light that shows up in your car's dashboard. In most cases, the light shines a solid red or amber. However, you may find the light blinking. It is important that you know the difference and what you should do in both cases. The blinking light shows that there is an emergency and the vehicle needs to be repaired at once. Do not drive a vehicle with a blinking check engine light. It shows a serious problem has occurred in the engine. Even when the vehicle can still drive, there might be an issue that compromises your safety on the road. If you must drive it, take it to an auto repair shop right away. Otherwise, car experts recommend towing the vehicle to the auto shop. On the other hand, steady engine light also shows a lighter problem with the engine. While you can drive your vehicle with the light on, it is recommended that ... read more

Interestingly, a car's ball joints work like the ball joints in human beings. They connect one part of the car body to the other and enable steering. In this case, a vehicle's rim and tire to the suspension system. These joints also allow the steering knuckle to connect to the control arm. They are hardened steel balls with a tapered stud that extrudes from the center that is encased in lubricated housings. Ball joint replacements are not usually part of routine maintenance, and therefore not changed so often. However, the mechanic should check them with every service. If you have an old car model, you may need to lubricate them with every oil change. Symptoms That You Need To Change the Ball Joints Vibration and Shaking When ball joints wear, they cause the vehicle to shake and vibrate as you drive. The reason is that they become loose and move about as you steer your car. You will feel vibrations through the steering wheel and in the chassis. Shaking make ... read more

A transmission speed sensor calculates the transmission gear ratio when in use. A car has two speed sensors: the ISS and the OSS, working together to show the transmission data to the car's powertrain module. The ISS sensor monitors the input shaft's speed. If these sensors get misaligned, the operation of the transmission system will be affected. The following signs will show you if your transmission speed sensor has failed. 1. Cruise Control Fails The main function of the speed sensors is to monitor the output and input shaft speed. But that's not the only function of these sensors. They also check cruise control. Cruise control is a system that controls the vehicle's speed automatically. Its proper functioning depends on the data from the transmission speed sensors. If it fails to work, then it means the sensors have malfunctioned. The PCM will transmit an error code to ECU, which will shut down. If that happens, it would be better to contact your mechanic immedia ... read more

When you're a first-time car owner, it can be quite alarming to realize all of the different things that need to be taken care of in order to ensure your vehicle keeps running smoothly. As a result of having to keep track of so many different areas, occasionally things fall by the wayside - especially a vehicle's tires. Your car's tires are immensely important to the overall drivability of your vehicle, and we're not exaggerating. Below, we'll go in-depth about when to replace tires, how to maintain tires, and more. 1. Keep Them Inflated If your tires aren't inflated correctly or begin to lose air pressure, you will see the effects of lessened fuel efficiency, lower drivability, and a general deterioration in performance. When we say drivability, we're referring to the overall handling of the vehicle - how easy it is to turn, maneuver, and how generally responsive the vehicle is. Lower air pressure than is recommended can make a vehicle feel sl ... read more

5 Car Noises You Shouldn't Ignore High-pitched squealing brakes The lifespan of the brake pads in your vehicle depends on your driving habits or the type of brake pads they are. Persistent, high-pitched squealing when applying brakes may indicate worn-out or thinning brake pads that need replacement. This is a safety issue that requires immediate attention to avoid decreasing your brake's stopping power. High-pitched squealing at the start of engine The sound of a high-pitched squealing at the start the engine infers a worn-out serpentine belt. A worn-out belt will begin to slip, making the squealing noise. You'd want to replace the belt early to prevent heavy steering (due to the loss of pressure from the power steering pump that is powered by the belt), or before it breaks, making your vehicle inoperable. Roaring during acceleration Roaring noise when accelerating suggests a hole in your muffler. A functioning muffl ... read more