 | Jeff Lovell is the owner of Neptune Radiator and Auto Repair. He started a radiator repair shop in 1996 and has grown over the last 15 years into an automotive repair shop. With 3 ASE Certified technicians including 1 Master ASE Certified technician, they have over 40 years of combined experience. They do everything except glass and body repair. For more information please contact us at 620.231.5890 or visit us at 902 West 4th Street. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2013-03-25 15:28:46
How do I avoid needing common repairs?
Q-It seems like every time I turn around, my car needs yet another repair. They are not major repairs, but if it is possible somehow, I would like to avoid them in the future. Any advice?
A-You are not alone! Americans are keeping cars longer these days and putting many more miles on them before trading them in for newer models. This of course gives owners much more time to experience car trouble.
Automotive repair is a hot topic and in the news frequently lately. Recently, industry experts published a study on America's Vehicle Health Index, which included the most common and avoidable repairs. Here are the five most common repairs that can be avoided through maintenance:
1. Engine Misfire. Engine misfire occurs when the spark fires at the incorrect time or not at all. This can be caused by several reasons, including bad fuel delivery, bad plugs, bad plug wires, vacuum leak, or mechanical breakdown. Prevent this problem by keeping your car tuned to factory specs and getting a yearly trouble code scan to detect problems early.
2. Evaporative Emissions Leak and/or Failure. The EVAP system traps gas tank fumes and consists of a fuel tank, vapor lines, and a liquid vapor separator. If any part of the system develops a leak, the car's computer will register an "EVAP Leak" code. Try to not over fill your car when getting gas. When it clicks off, stop filling. To prevent problems, always replace your gas cap tightly. Also, use a good rust protection application.
3. System Running Too Lean. This happens due to a vacuum leak, faulty injector driver, bad injector, or a need for a computer update. Regular maintenance with your shop can avert this problem.
4. Catalytic Converter Failure. Usually leaks or corrosion caused by uncontrolled fuel delivery are the culprits in Catalytic Converter Failure. Regular maintenance and keeping the systems at factory specs will help prevent the problem. If you need the converter replaced, also have your technician check the entire fuel delivery system.
5. Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Failure. This is an emissions system designed to lower combustion chamber temperatures in order to reduce pollution. To keep it running properly, have it checked every 30,000 miles or immediately if the check engine light goes on.
6. Keeping your fuel filter changed will help on the life of the vehicle's fuel pump which should be changed every 15K miles. Transmission Flush is needed every 50K - 75K depending on the make of the vehicle and this will help the life of your transmission. Coolant Flush gets the old antifreeze out. If not then, over time old antifreeze deteriorates intake gaskets and water pump seals which then will make your water pump leak and need replaced.
