The Cure for "Funny Noises" and Warning Lights - November 2010
Being proactive with your vehicle is as important as being proactive with treating an illness. We go to the doctor when we're sick to get a diagnosis and a prescription for better health.
Shouldn't we also take our cars to a trusted auto repair center at the first sign of a problem to prolong the health of our vehicles?
While car problems can range from the engine to brakes to tires, one thing is certain: Being proactive and quickly getting a check-up can save thousands of dollars by paying attention to things like "funny noises," the Check Engine Light, and other warning signs.
In the next few articles we'll explore some common warning signs that your vehicle needs service or repair to keep you and your family safe. In this issue we'll focus on those "funny noises" and the Check Engine Light.
Brake Service and Repair
If you hear a "funny noise" when you hit the brakes, don't pretend it will go away on its own. It won't. In fact, not only will it get worse, it can cost you a lot more money in the long run.
Also pay attention to any vibrations or pulsating, which typically mean your rotors are unsafe and you need to bring your car to the shop as soon as possible.
Replacing the brake pads is relatively inexpensive and is a necessary part of regular maintenance. When the brake pad lining has worn down to 1/8 inches or less, you'll hear a loud squeal, indicating that it's time to change the pads.
If you ignore the noise and don't take your car to a repair expert soon, you risk damaging the rotors. When the rotors are damaged, you'll hear a grinding sound when you apply the brakes. At this point, not only is it dangerous to drive your car, but now you need to replace the far more costly rotors in addition to the brake pads.
Diagnostic Service and Repair
Most of us have seen the Check Engine Light turn on in our cars. Most of us also probably try to ignore it and hope it turns off on its own. Unfortunately, by delaying a trip to Lone Star Automotive, you may be damaging an expensive engine component, putting yourself at risk, and costing yourself money on repairs that could easily have been avoided.
If your Check Engine light is on , one or more of the following engine components may need servicing:
- Engine sensors
- Ignition module and wiring
- Fuel pump
- Distributor cap and rotor
- Coil packs
Our technicians will inspect and pin-point the problem with our diagnostic tools, and then make the necessary repairs to get you back on the road.
Local, Dependable, Affordable
If you're hearing those "funny noises" coming from your brakes or that Check Engine light is on, schedule an appointment online with Lone Star Automotive. Call
432-699-5700 to schedule an appointment.
NEW VEHICLE HISTORY FEATURE ON OUR WEBSITE!
Lone Star Automotive just added a new feature to the website!
You can now access valuable vehicle information on our convenient easy-to-access Web site. Lone Star customers are given an online access code to view your complete service and repair history for all vehicles, as well as many other features!
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