Engine Maintenance - Service and Repair

Check Engine Light On? We Can Fix That.

There many reasons why your check engine light is on. We use our state-of-the-art engine diagnostics tools to find the exact cause of your engine's issues.  Here, it's not about getting a simple scanning code, it's about getting to the bottom of your engine problem and delivering a real, reliable solution. 

Why Is The Check Engine Light On? 

Yes, sometimes your check engine light will turn on because of a loose gas cap. But when that's not the culprit, what is?

• Catalytic Converter Damage or Malfunction
• Bad Mass Airflow Sensor
• Oxygen Sensor Issue
• Spark Plug Damage

Even electric vehicles have check engine lights. In some EVs, the check engine light might show up in different colors or flash to signify the type or severity of the problem.

Check out our blog on what steps to follow when your check engine light comes on to avoid more damage and danger on the road.

Going Beyond the Scanning Codes: The Engine Diagnostics Process 

Warning lights tell you something is wrong, but they don’t tell you what or where the problem is in the vehicle. Scanning codes used at parts stores will say whether there's an actual problem, but it won't tell you where. 

While the average code scanner runs from $25-$70, independant auto repair shops like ours spend $10,000+ on diagnostic equipment that relays specific information about whats wrong with any make or model of vehicle. 

How To Keep Your Engine In Good Shape

Keep Your Engine Oil Clean 

Oil changes are the most talked about kind of engine maintenance - and with good reason! Without changing your oil at regular intervals, your engine will start to build up oil sludge that can slow and damage your engine. Get your oil changed on time. At least twice a year - even if you’re not driving often.

Change Your Spark Plugs & Clean the Fuel System

Here’s a fun fact - a tiny explosion happens in your vehicle every time you start your engine. That’s thanks to the spark plugs, which use their electric power to cause the little explosion that starts the engine. Gasoline leaves deposits like plaque the dentist cleans off your teeth. By changing spark plugs & cleaning the fuel system regularly your car will run efficiently & smoothly & you avoid costly bigger repairs such as internal engine damage.

Different vehicles need new spark plugs at different intervals, but you can expect to change your spark plugs somewhere between 30,000 and 75,000 miles.

Check Your Belts 

Squealing and cracking belts are both bad signs for your engine health. A few serious issues can happen if your belt breaks while driving: your engine can overheat, power steering can stop, and your alternator may even give out. 

Needless to say, driving is best when your belts are working. There are many types of car belts, so always have your belts inspected when your vehicle is being serviced, and plan to change them between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.

Keep it Cool 

We’ve already mentioned that an overheating engine is a bad thing. Your engine’s coolant is another vital liquid that’s responsible for preventing overheating. When your coolant is low, your engine is at risk as overheating can cause cracked pistons, ruined spark plugs, or - at worst - total engine failure. Aside from changing the coolant, keeping a clean radiator is another way to make sure good airflow is able to get to your engine’s cooling system. 

Bonus Tips for Keeping a Healthy Engine 

• Drive on the highway when you can. Starting and stopping is hard on your engine. 
• Always watch for leaks. Oil and coolant leaks are both signs of at-risk engine health. 
• Listen to your warning lights. They’re there for a reason! If your light is on, visit your auto service center. 
• Stop driving if your engine is overheating - if you continue, you’ll put your vehicle at risk of engine failure.