Posts

Posted on

4 Things To Do Before You Get A Brake Repair Service

The braking system of your car is one of the most used methods. It is the system that prevents accidents and will keep you safe. If any part of your braking system isn’t performing the way it should, you will have complications in slowing down or coming to a stop or even holding a halt. If you are noticing that your brakes aren’t working the way they should, it might be time to have brake repair and service performed. But, before you head out to your automotive shop, there are a few things that you can do before taking your vehicle in. If you narrow down what is wrong, you might be able to fix some of the smaller problems.

Check The Brake Fluid

It is a prevalent problem for car owners in regards to the braking system. When the pressure on the brake becomes more spongy and is softer to push in, you might be low on brake fluid. The simple way to check if this is your problem is by looking at the brake fluid reservoir. The reservoir lies on top of the master cylinder. You can usually spot the tank by the cap on them labeled DOT 3 or DOT 4. If it is under the full mark, add just enough to get it at the line. Remember only to add what is recommended and used in your vehicle.

Check For leaks In The Brake Lines

It will require a little bit of maneuvering, and go under the car. If you follow your brake lines all the way to the rear, look for possible damage to the line. Another area to check that is much easier is the connection to the master cylinder. Sometimes the rings inside the master cylinder can become worn and allow for tiny leaks. If you notice fluid here, it could be the potential cause of your car not braking correctly.

Are Your Brake Pads Worn Down

In a disc brake system, the brake pads are what press against the rotors that make your care come to a stop. If your brake pads are overused, they will start to make that annoying grinding sound. The production of sound is from a metal shim within the brake pad. It is your first indication that you will need brake service. If your calipers are not opening and closing the way they should, it can cause your brake pads to be continually contacting the rotor. If this happens, you will need to have brake repair work done on the calipers to get them to open correctly.

Investigate Your Rotors For Warpage

As mentioned your rotors will be what your brake pads clamp to initiate braking. If you were to look at the rotor, you might notice that they might be worn down. Depending on how long you have gone from your last brake pad change, you might have to have these replaced. Uneven wear or warpage will result in a vibration when at speeds over 30mph and coming to a stop.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a few items you can look for before taking your car into to get serviced for the braking system. Knowing them will help you to understand what exactly is wrong, and what it will take to fix the problem.

Posted on

When It Pays To Have An Oil Change

The engine of your car is the heart of the vehicle. It would make sense that you should have maintenance done on it, to keep it running at its best. One of the most honest services you can have done routinely is to have an oil change. An oil change service can be performed for many different reasons. The oil change will consist of draining all the old oil out from the pan and substituting the oil filter with a new one. Aside from having this routine maintenance done, what are some other signs that it would be beneficial to have an oil change?

The Oil Is Black

When you put fresh oil into a vehicle, it will be a light brownish color. The longer you go between oil changes the engine oil will start to darken. When oil gets to the black state, it is not benefiting your vehicle’s engine at that point. You will be able to tell the color of your oil just by checking the end of the dipstick.

The Oil Filter Will Become Full

The reason an oil change will be necessary is to change the oil filter out. The job of the screen is to stop any particles that are not healthy for your engine from being circulated. Over time the filer can fill or possibly become clogged. It will allow for those particles to escape. Once this happens, you could be putting your motor at risk.

Engine Becomes Loud

If you are used to having a quiet motor, then this one will be an easy sign to spot. Over time, and the longer between oil changes, the engine will develop a sound that is much louder as it is running. A lack of lubrication mostly causes it. If you were to think about what metal on metal was to sound like, that is what is going on under your hood. It is important to have oil put in as soon as you notice your engine making a different sound.

A Check Engine Light Appears

Sure it’s one thing to a few miles over when you are due for an oil change, but ultimately forgetting to have the service done for thousands of miles can hurt your engine badly. If you go too long, a check engine light will appear, and this spells issues, especially in a variable valve timing car. The bonus to getting an oil change, the light will be gone.

Oil Changes Can Spot Larger Problems

Going back to the engine gets the louder problem, one of the reasons an oil change can be beneficial at that time is to spot any possible damage that may have happened. When metal on metal happens in an issue, metal flakes will become present in the oil. An oil change will be able to determine if you have large particles present. If there are significant chunks of metal found, it could spell disaster, but the cost of a rebuild would be cheaper than a whole engine replacement.

Conclusion

Oil changes are the most critical maintenance item you should not put off. Cars now are built to go 5,000 miles or more between them. Oil changes can solve many of these indicated problems and will help your engine last much longer.

Posted on

6 Factors That Affect How Long The Brake Pads Last

Brake pads are one of the primary and most known components of the braking system of your car. They are one of the least expensive parts to have changed and a super important for your safety. To keep your brake pads lasting longer below are six factors that can make an impact on how long your pads will last.

Brake Pad Material

Brake pads come in a few options including:

• Metallic
• Semi Metallic
• Organic
• Synthetic (Ceramic)

While each one of these will work on any vehicle, you get what you pay for. The least expensive options are metallic and semi metallic. With the advances in brakes and difference in cost, metallic brakes have become almost obsolete. For the longest lasting option on the market, ceramic is the best choice.

How You Use The Brakes

If you are a ride the break type of driver, you will obviously notice that you have to replace brake pads much more frequently. One of the best practices you can do is coast and maintain a distance. Coasting will allow you to maintain speed, which is nice for MPG’s, but it will also help with the longevity of your brakes.

A Caliper Malfunction

If a caliper is stuck, a brake pad will constantly be rubbing the rotor. It will in turn run down a brake pad very quickly. It can also affect the rotors as well. If you are having a burning smell coming from your brakes, it is entirely possible that a stuck caliper is causing a problem, and will end up needing replacement as well as brake pad replacements. This issue will keep occurring if the caliper problem is not corrected.

Manual vs. Automatics, The Usage Difference

Manual drivers will drive much differently than those who have an automatic. This is in large part due to being able to downshift to slow a vehicle. This is called engine braking. Automatics don’t have this same luxury and require using the brakes any time they need to slow down or stop. In general, if a person is a good at driving a manual, they potentially can see brake pads last much longer than that of an automatic vehicle.

Putting New Brake Pads on Bad Rotors

As fascinating as it may be to just put new brake pads on when they need to be changed. If you are told that your rotors need a replacement, it is an expense you should have done. A warped or worn out rotor can wear down brake pads quickly. So while you think you are saving money just replacing the pads, it will cost you more, because the brake pads are going to need to be changed much sooner. In addition to brake pad wear, a warped or worn rotor can also affect your stopping ability.

Trigger Happy on the Brake Pedal

Often when people are driving along, the person in front of them will apply their brake. For some reason or another, an instant thought of having to use the brake hits. Even if it is not necessary to do so, some people’s reaction is just to do what the person ahead of them does. Instead, as you are driving, maintain a healthy distance between you and the car in front, and only brake when you need to, and not just because you are following the leader.

Changing the Brake Fluid

One of the least thought of things that can affect your brake pads is the brake fluid. To help your pads last longer, it is a very good idea to have your brake fluid bled and flushed. Especially if you have an older vehicle, it can help with keeping the components of your braking system healthy.

Posted on

7 Radiator Tips You Need To Know

The radiator is one of the principal components of your car’s cooling system. A properly functioning heater will help maintain cooler temperatures that will help keep your engine’s temp in check. If the radiator fails, it will spell disaster for your motor, because it keeps the internal components at a proper operating temperature. So it is important to know what you should do to keep your radiator operating properly. Below are seven tips you need to know to help keep your vital component of your car’s cooling system running smoothly.

Check Your Coolant Levels

As with all the fluids in your wheels, the coolant level is one you should always have checked. Coolant levels are just as important as oil levels. If your vehicle doesn’t have enough coolant, it will struggle to keep your engine cool. It is because the cooling system is a pressurized one, and without proper amounts of fluid it won’t create the same amount of pressure. It is recommended that you should check your coolant the same time you check your oil.

Keep the Cap on Tightly

While it might seem rather simple, having your radiator cap securely tightened is one of the easiest tips to make sure is done. If for any reason you have to fill your coolant, make sure the cap is tightened and secure and is on properly. As mentioned it is a pressurized system, and if the cap isn’t secure, you will end up with coolant boiling over and onto everything in the engine bay. It is not only messy but if you run your vehicle after this has happened your car can potentially run hot. If this happens, you might do damage to the engine itself.

Never, Ever, is Open the Radiator Cap When Your Vehicle Hot

If your coolant level is low, or you get a message in your vehicle saying “low coolant,” you must fill your engine. But before filling it, let your engine temp cool off. You never want to open the radiator cap when it is hot. It can lead to injury. Not only is the coolant at extremely high temps but it also can potentially spray. One of the best things you can do if you are running low on coolant is to wait until overnight and fill the next day before the vehicle has been running.

Have an Annual Flush Done

An annual coolant flush is when your coolant is completely drained, then washed to clean out the system. After which, a fresh new coolant is put into your cooling system; it is an excellent idea for those with high mileage or that do lots of driving. It is recommended that you should at the very least have this service done annually.

Inspect Radiator For Leaks and Holes

If your coolant is running low, it could be possible that your radiator might have a leak or hole. If this problem is not corrected, you could lose most the coolant in your system and overheat the motor. If you notice drips under your vehicle or your radiator has coolant on it, it is probably time to replace the radiator.

Always use the Manufacturer’s Recommended Coolant and Quantity

Not all coolant is the same. When most people look at coolant, they will see that there is a significant difference between the types available. All vehicles are not the same. Always use what the manufacturer recommends and only filled with the quantity that is specified. Antifreeze is available in a 50/50 blend that is pre-diluted, and a regular that you will need to dilute yourself. Whichever you decide make sure that if you get the brand that needs to be diluted that you follow the directions. A 50/50 blend is the easier option because it is a simple fill with the amount you need with no need for additional mixing.

Never Mix Coolants

It is imperative never to mix coolants. If your system is running the orange Dexcool, don’t mix in the Green generic anti-freeze. They have a very different makeup. If you mix them, you could potentially cause the fluid in your cooling system to become almost gelatin like and junk up in the system. If you are unsure about what coolant you need, ask before filling it. The easiest way to avoid problems is not to mix colors.

Posted on

How To Jumpstart A Car?

At one point or another, you have probably had the misfortune to start a car, and won’t work. More than likely the problem is the battery has gone dead. If your alternator is functioning properly, and your battery has only run down, then the easiest solution is jumping the car. Jumpstarting a car is one of the most useful car tips you will ever learn, and will surely come in handy. The only things you will need to perform a jump are:

• The vehicle that needs a jump
• Jumper cables
• A car that is running and has a good battery

Below is an easy to follow guide on how to jumpstart a car:

** It is important to remember that when it comes to a battery that the negative terminals are black and the positive terminals are red. It is typically the standard when it comes to batteries. Also, a great tip is to have the jumper cables separated before you start connecting.

  1. You are going to want to position the vehicle that can give the not starting vehicle so that the jumper cables can reach. Both vehicles should be in the park and shut off when you initiate.
  2. Next, you are going to want to open the hoods of both vehicles. So you can have access to the battery and can connect the jumper cables.
  3. To begin connecting with the jumper cables, you will want to first clamp the positive (red) cable to the red terminal of the battery that has died. Once you begin connection, don’t allow the jumper cables to touch each other.
  4. Then you will want to connect the other side of the jumper cables, positive (red) to the other car with a good battery. 5. You will then need to connect the negative (black) cable to the other vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
  5. For the last jumper cable, you will want to clamp on a piece of unpainted metal on the car requiring the jump, and not use the actual negative terminal on its battery. You should choose a location that isn’t near the battery. It can be the hood hinges (if applicable) or possibly a hood latch.
  6. Now it is time to start the vehicle that is giving the jump. You will want to let it run for a few minutes. Sometimes it can help if you give it a few revs. Keep the cables connected for about 5 minutes to give the battery time to charge.

Start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it starts, that’s great! Don’t shut it off! Disconnect the cables following the steps backward from attaching. You will want to drive your vehicle for 10 to 15 minutes to get your battery recharged.

Conclusion

That’s it! This simple guide will help anyone that needs to jump start a vehicle. If after the jump, your car runs, but you shut it off and won’t start again, it is more than likely that your battery is too far gone and you will need to replace it.

Posted on

How To Properly Clean Battery Terminals?

Your car’s battery is one of the most important parts of your vehicle; it is the driving force as to how your vehicle starts. Having clean, non-corroded battery terminals and cables can make all the difference in how it functions. Can battery corrosion keep a car from starting? If your battery is displaying signs of corrosion, i.e. the gunky white build up surrounding the posts, then yes, it can, in fact, cause your car not to start. The reason being is your battery cables won’t be able to make a significant connection to the terminals to supply power. When you start to notice signs of corrosion, it is best to clean the battery terminals as well as the cables thoroughly. There are some unique, inexpensive tools you can purchase that will make the job go very quickly. If you don’t desire to go out and buy these handy tools you can also use some common household materials to get the job done. How to clean battery terminals with a few tips along the way is very simple.

Things you might need, using household items:

• Wire brush
• Baking soda
• Water
• *Optional petroleum jelly

If you choose the method of buying additional tools, there are special wire brushes designed to clean battery terminals as well as sprays that will loosen the corrosion gunk. Let’s get started!

First, you are going to want to disconnect both the positive and negative cables from the battery terminals. You can utilize either a socket or wrench to loosen the nuts holding the wires. The next part will vary depending on what method you choose, so we’ll start with the household.

Using the baking soda, liberally sprinkle on the terminal and cables. You’ll want to let that sit for a few minutes to start dissolving the corrosion after you will pour water directly on the baking soda that will neutralize the corrosion, and cause a bubbly reaction. It will be now safe to handle. Then you’ll use a wire brush to remove the caked on debris. Make sure you are cleaning the battery terminals and the cables, or anywhere you see corrosion build up. After it is clean, you’ll want to use a cloth to clean the surface. *Tip* If you coat the battery terminals with petroleum jelly, it will still conduct current and help keep corrosion at bay. Then you will just need to reconnect the battery, and you are all done!

If you use the store bought tools, you will do the same as above, except using the manufacturer’s instructions on the spray, and the unique wire brush for the terminals. You will want to spin the terminal brush about five times or more depending on how much corrosion is present.

Conclusion

Keep your car starting every time, by keeping your battery terminals and cables clean and free of corrosion. It should be done periodically, or anytime you notice a build-up occurring.

Posted on

What Does An Illuminated Check Engine Light Mean?

You are probably familiar with some of the natural lights your car displays, but one light has many different meanings, and that is a check engine light or CEL for short. This light can be displayed in many formats or symbols depending on the car’s make, and can look similar to one of these:

Formally known as a MIL, or Malfunction Indicator Lamp, the check engine light has been in use for a very long time in vehicles. So, what does a check engine light mean? The check engine lights function is to notify a driver that there is something wrong with one of the many systems your vehicle has. An illuminated check engine light doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something wrong with the engine. Lit up CEL can be either in the electrical, emissions, engine, or transmission.

When most people see a check engine light on, they immediately will think the worse, and a feeling of dread will wash over them, and they will begin wondering what is wrong or what it could mean. It is because no one likes the engine light, and in most people’s eyes it symbolizes costly repairs, or that the car is just going to stop working soon. What should you do when you see this little light lit up like a Christmas tree on your dash? The best thing you can do is take your car in to get a code reading done.

All cars from 1996 and up are outfitted with the standardized OBD-2 plug in, and it allows scanners or computers to talk to your vehicle’s computer. Getting your car’s trouble code is as easy as bringing it into a shop or scanning it yourself if you have a scanner. The most important thing about the checking the engine light is that you do not have to wait to have it looked. In some cases, driving on a car that has a problem can become an even bigger problem if not corrected. It is not recommended just to shut off the light and not fix the problem. While you may be tempted just to shut off the light, it won’t fix the underlying problem.

It is necessary to note that just because you see this “warning light” It doesn’t mean you need to stop driving. Commonly, the CEL is related to an emission problem, for instance, a BMW will have a normal check engine light on for the oxygen sensor. This emission item is an important one to correct because if you drive too long, it can break the catalytic converter, and that is a much more expensive repair than an O2 sensor.

Conclusion

Whenever you see an illuminated check engine light, get your code read, and correct the problem. It will help extend your car’s life and keep it functioning properly.

Posted on

How To Get A Stuck Key Out Of The Ignition?

After you park your car, you shut it off, and go to pull the key out, but it doesn’t want to release. Is your key stuck in ignition? This frustrating problem has plagued many drivers and caused hours of turning, twisting and pulling to remove the key from the ignition. The initial thing you will want to know is why did this happen? When key gets stuck in the ignition, it can be traced back to a few common reasons. The most common issues with a key is an ignition lock cylinder failure or problems with the components related to the locking system. It is a perfect idea that if you experience a stuck key that once you get it removed to have a technician find the exact cause. It will ultimately stop it from happening again. It is especially true if the problems are with the locking cylinder or a component’s failure.

So if you are in this situation, just take a breath and relax. There are some tips and tricks to get your keys out of the ignition and back on your hand. Here are three straightforward and quick fixes to unstick your key.

Method 1: The Wiggle, Jiggle

Just as the title suggests, a gentle wiggle and jiggle of back and forth movements while the key is turned in the off position. Before you start this method, always make sure that your car is in the park. Most automatic cars won’t allow you to take out the key if the vehicle is in any gear other than park.

Method 2: Cool Down Time

When metal gets warm, it will expand. It can cause your key to get stuck, so cooling it down might contract the key metal enough to be able to separate it from the lock cylinder. This method for removal will require some ice and a towel. Apply the ice to the head of the key and wrap a cloth around it to prevent water dripping. You’ll want to hold it on there for a few minutes then gently try to pull the key out. If it doesn’t just come out, after a few moments, with the ice still on, you use the wiggle method.

Method 3: Tried and True. WD-40

This method is perhaps the messiest of the methods, but it has some of the best results. Using a can of Wd-40, you will spray it directly into the lock. You will have the best results if you have the red tube attachment for a more direct spray. After you spray, let it stay for a minute, then use method 1 for removal.

Conclusion

Try not to get frustrated when you can’t get your key out; it is fixable. Hopefully, these methods will be useful if you find that you can’t get your key unstuck. If you keep having this problem, it is best to take it into an automotive repair shop for redress.

Posted on

BMW Maintenance Tips

When you own a BMW, there are a few things you will want to do over the course of your ownership to ensure that it is running at peak performance as well as being a safe driver for you and your family. A reputable BMW shop will be able to assist you with all of the maintenance your car will need. Below are some of the best maintenance items that should be done routinely as part of owning a BMW that will last for years to come.

Have Regular Oil Changes Done

It will be the hands down best service tip you will ever do for your vehicle’s engine life. The engine is the heart of the car and one of the most expensive repairs you would ever have to do. To avoid major issues, giving your BMW regular oil changes will extend the engine’s life while giving you added performance as well as better fuel economy.

Replace or Clean your Air Filter

Your engine runs with a combination of air and fuel, and a dirty air filter will give you less performance and fuel economy. Periodically changing or cleaning your air filter will give you many benefits as well as allowing your engine to breathe easier. If you have replaced your stock air filter with an aftermarket one, like a K&N air filter, it will need to be cleaned, not replaced. A stock air filter will need to be changed out for a new one. It is one of the easiest maintenance items you can do to increase your horsepower as well.

Check the Status of your Tires

Tires play an intricate part in how your car will drive. If your tires are too worn or are wearing unevenly, you will feel it in the way your vehicle drives. It is best to replace your tires when they have worn down, and periodically rotate and balance them for an even wear on all four corners. One other aspect you shouldn’t overlook is your tire pressure. It is best to check your tire pressure somewhat frequently to make sure all tires are the same pressure and meet manufacturer specifications.

Check and Double Check your Fluid Levels

You may be accustomed to only checking fluids if something isn’t running right. It is an excellent idea to regularly stop and check the levels at least every three months. You should check your oil, transmission, coolant, power steering, and brake fluid levels. If you do it all at the same time, it will make it easier to monitor their levels.

Conclusion

Owning a BMW is a great adventure, and if you are good at it, it will be good to you. So check, replace, refill these items when needed. The best possible tip doesn’t put off repairs. If your BMW is making noises, take it to a reputable BMW auto repair shop to have it looked. These tips will help prevent large issues as well as help your BMW last longer.

Posted on

5 Things To Look For In A Service Center

When looking for a German Auto Repair near me service center, what are some things you should consider before choosing the right one for you? For the best automotive service center for your BMW, Audi, Mini Cooper, or Mercedes, Ryan GMW is the top choice. Here are the top 5 essential features a service center should have or do, to give you the best overall experience and automotive repair:

  1. Highest Quality Work Performance

    Your car deserves the very best when it needs repairs or routine maintenance done. Are repairs made by the book, and no short cuts are taken? Is the work being done up to the standards set by the manufacturer? Typically usual shops aren’t as equipped to handle German auto repair, but at Ryan GMW they specialize in German makes and don’t take any shortcuts, to ensure you receive the highest quality of service each visit.

  2. Comfortable Waiting Room

    Considering waiting for your vehicle when it needs repairs done? Then you’ll want to know if the waiting room will be accommodating and comfortable. One way a waiting room can be accommodating is by providing free WiFi to customers that choose to wait. Another great feature is comfortable chairs. There is nothing worse than having to sit and wait in tiny, uncomfortable chairs. What about refreshments? There should be both water and coffee available at no charge to customers allowing for a more relaxing atmosphere while you wait.

  3. Reasonable Pricing

    Possibly, one of the greatest concerns for customers looking for auto repair is the cost. Having repair work and maintenance done at a price you can afford and that is reasonable is very important. Ryan GMW offers reasonable pricing on all work performed and rivals many in the area.

  4. Knowledgeable and Certified Technicians

    When choosing an automotive shop for your German vehicle, such as a BMW, you’ll want to know if the technicians are certified to handle the complexities that BMW’s are known to have. At Ryan GMW the owner is a Certified BMW Master Technician, as well as ASE certified. It means that you are getting the very best regarding knowledge and service for your vehicle.

  5. A Shop that is Both Large and Cleanly

    An automotive service center should be large to accommodate for many vehicles to be worked on simultaneously. It will allow for your service time and wait time to be significantly cut down. Size isn’t the only things that will create a more productive automotive shop, a clean and well-organized store will be one that will get the work done faster, especially when a technician doesn’t have to search through things to find the right tools for the job.

Conclusion

When looking for the very best for German auto repair, find a service center that has these great qualities, and you won’t be disappointed.