What Would Cause Brake Lights Not To Work?

Driving at night or on dark cloudy days with either brake lights not working is risky for you and other drivers.  Many drivers just jump into their vehicles and don’t think about whether or not their brake lights are working.  Especially during these dark winter days, make it a habit to walk around your car every few days to inspect that all your lights are working correctly.  This inspection should include not only your brake lights, but your headlights, turn signals, fog lights, back-up lights, and tail lights.  If you notice a dim light, schedule a visit to your auto repair shop to determine if the issue is more than a burned-out bulb.  Some form of auto electrical repair may be compulsory.

Lights seem simple, but several things can go wrong. When light doesn’t work, it is usually because of the four problems below:

• Burnt-out bulbs.  This is the most common issue that occurs most frequently. Every time a car driver steps on the brake pedal, the bulb is illuminated the entire time.  Also, consider that today’s vehicles are equipped with day-running lights that are on constantly.  Newer vehicles now have LED lights that last much lengthier, but older vehicles still use bulbs that need to be actually popped out and replaced.
• Bad Brake Light Switch.  When the brake pedal gets pressed, a switch is activated to send a signal that it’s time to turn on.  Analog switches wear out and get dirty over time.  This interferes with their ability to make positive contact and transmit the correct signal.  If all of the brake lights are out at the same time, it is likely caused by a bad brake light switch.
• Blown out fuse.  If the bulbs are good and the light switch is good, the next thing to inspect is a blown-out fuse.  If you are incapable to replace the fuse yourself, ask your auto mechanic for help.  Replacing a fuse is fairly simple and inexpensive.
• Wiring problems.  Finally, after ruling out any of the problems above, inspect the wiring in the light socket itself.  It may have become dirty and corroded, or worn to the point where it’s only making the intermittent connection. Your auto mechanic can easily replace the light socket.

If you notice any of the issues above, your auto mechanic can easily diagnose the issue and perform the right auto electrical repair problem rapidly and fairly inexpensively.

Are you wondering what would cause brake lights not to work?  Call our ASE-certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about auto electrical repair problems and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

When Do Car Struts Need to be Replaced?

A vehicle is more than just 4 wheels rolling down the road.  It has many different systems that work together so that you are driving as safely as possible down the road.  One vital system, but one that doesn’t receive much attention, is the suspension system.  It keeps your vehicle connected to the road!  

The suspension system performs 6 functions:

1. Helps maintain the appropriate vehicle ride height
2. Reduces the effect of shock forces on rough roads
3. Helps maintain correct car alignment
4. Supports the weight of the vehicle
5. Keeps the tires rolling down the road efficiently
6. Keeps the wheels turning in the right direction

There are 4 major subsystems that make up the suspension system:

• Tires, wheels, and car axles – Tires provide traction for acceleration, braking, and cornering, as well as absorbing minor bumps.  They will wear out over time just from usual wear and tear.  Car axles and wheels can also fail from accident potholes.
• Springs – Springs absorb large bumps but may break if the vehicle hits a bump very hard, and some springs will ultimately start to sag.  Springs are much less prone to failure than most of the other suspension parts.
• Struts and Shocks – Shocks or struts dampen the motion of the springs after a bump, keeping the vehicle from bouncing excessively.  Together with the car axles, shocks and struts work together to ensure that your vehicle operates safely.  
• Rods and Connectors – Every suspension system includes rods and other connecting sections that collectively keep the wheels in place.  They are solid metal so they rarely fail excepting in major accidents. 
• Bushings, bearings, and joints – These parts allow a small amount of twisting among the other parts of the suspension system.  They can wear out from usual use and will want to be replaced.

Tip to Remember:  When any of the parts of the suspension system wear and fail, the performance of other systems is significantly decreased.  For example, it will take a longer distance than normal to come to a complete stop.  Don’t let your vehicle be the cause of a serious accident. 

Need an inspection of the suspension system?  Call our ASE-certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when do car struts need to be replaced and to request an appointment. Our automotive shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Does a Full Car Service Consist of?

Many car owners may admit that at one time, they have put off the car maintenance services recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.  Not understanding what does a full car service consists of, they don’t want to take time out of their busy schedule, or their budget was too tight.  These car owners may be thinking that they are saving money, but in reality, they may actually be spending more, as the cost of an emergency car repair is much greater than the cost would have been for the routine car maintenance.  

There is a good reason that car manufacturers publish service guidelines—they understand what it takes to make sure that when their cars come off the assembly line, they operate as reliably and safely for as long as possible.  Regular maintenance not only helps drivers avoid urgent and expensive car repair, but it is also important in keeping your car driving as safe as possible on the road.  

So how does one find out what does a full car service consist of?  Many Car drivers know that their vehicle has a manual that lists the recommended mileage or time interval for each maintenance service item.  You should find it in the glove box of your car.  Or, you can ask your expert car repair mechanic for advice.

What does a full service consist of?  At least once a year:

• Inspect all lights (interior and exterior), warning lights, and horn.  
• Inspect windshield for cracks, condition of wiper blades and washer reservoir
• Drain the motor oil and refill with fresh oil.  Inspect for oil leakages.
• Replace air filter, 
• Inspect the radiator’s coolant level and top off as needed.  Also, inspect for leakages in connections and hoses.
• Inspect condition of belts, spark plugs, time belt, and gas cap.
• Inspect the brakes, including the condition of the brake fluid, brake pads, rotors and caliper for wear, and hand brake.
• Have the condition of the tire inspected, as well as tread wear, rotation, and air pressure.
• Inspect the suspension system, including shocks, struts, wheel bearing, and brake fluid.
• Inspect the condition of the exhaust system.

So if you want to know what does a full car service consist of, call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about car repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Causes the “Check Engine” Light to Come On?

Many car owners know that if they want to keep their current car a trustworthy source of transportation, it is important to take care of their vehicle.  In spite of keeping up with routine engine service, when the “Check Engine” light starts to glow on their dash, anxiety starts to fill their mind.  What is happening under the hood?  And what causes the “check engine” light to come on? Their biggest fear is that a major engine repair could cost thousands of dollars.

Just remember that the “Check Engine” sensor is part of the on-board diagnostic system that is continuously monitoring engine performance, such as engine speed, air to fuel ratio, and ignition timing.  If a “fault” within the system is detected, whether big or small, the “check engine” light will illuminate.

So what causes the “Check Engine” light to come on?  Here are several of the main causes to consider:

1. Damaged Gas Cap – If the gas cap is loose, fuel vapors leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off, reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions. Tightening or replacing the gas cap may resolve the issue.
2. Oxygen Sensor failure – The oxygen sensor monitors the unburned oxygen from the exhaust system, and how much fuel is burned. A faulty oxygen sensor doesn’t send the right data to the computer, which then reduces gas mileage and increases emissions.  
3. Catalytic Convertor Failure – The catalytic convertor reduces exhaust gases by converting carbon monoxide and other harmful materials into harmless compounds. If it fails, gas mileage wills reduction and loss of power when you try to accelerate. 
4. Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor – This sensor tells the car's computer to add the proper amount of fuel based on the air coming through to the engine. If the mass airflow sensor fails, toxic emission will increase, your car may stall, and gas mileage will decrease.
5. Dirty Spark Plugs and Wires – The spark plug provides a gap for a spark to jump across and initiates combustion in your engine.  If they are starting to go bad, replacing them is an easy fix

A word of advice:  Take care of recommended engine service items to help prevent small engine issues to turn into an expensive engine repair.  

Do you want to know more about what causes the “Check Engine” light to come on?  Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about engine repair service and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

How Many Miles Should You Get an Oil Change?

Experienced auto drivers already know that the most cost-effective maintenance item to keep your vehicle in the best shape is to schedule regular oil changes. Though, many auto mechanics report that they have vehicles brought in for repair because of engine damage caused by dirty oil.  Either the drivers didn’t know what oil to use or they simply delayed too long between oil changes. They then discover that the cost of an engine repair is far more than an oil change service.

Here are several things every driver should know about oil changes:

1. The purpose of oil.  Oil lubricates the parts of the engine so they don’t grind against each other creating excess friction and heat.  Oil also carries away dirt, dust, and other contaminants as it flows through the engine.
2. The oil change interval.  The right oil change interval required for your vehicle will vary depending on its age, the type of oil used, and your driving conditions. Be sure to read your owner’s manual or ask your auto mechanic for advice.  The right interval could be anywhere between 3,000 miles for older vehicles using conventional oil up to 15,000 miles for new vehicles using full-synthetic oil. 
3. Warning light.   Drivers should not rely on the dashboard warning light before changing the oil as many are programmed to come on around 3,000 to 5,000 miles after the last oil change. The engine may already be low on oil before that light comes on.
4. Temperature affects oil.  Designations indicating the viscosity of oil have been developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers.  Some oils are designed to be thinner when cold and more viscous when hot.  For example, 10W-30 oil—the "10W" corresponds to the lower viscosity when the engine is cold—the "30" refers to the higher viscosity when the engine is hot and running generally.  
5. Conventional, premium, and synthetic oils. Normally, high-performance engines require synthetic oil, while the “average” engine uses conventional oils.  Blends combining synthetic, premium, or conventional oils are normally used for trucks and SUVs. 

Tip to Remember:  Read your owner’s manual to find out what is the best oil change for your car. Or ask your auto mechanic for recommendations on what is best for your vehicle.

Do you want to know more about how many miles should you get an oil change?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for information about their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

How Often Should Wheel Alignment Be Done?

Most of the time, drivers don’t put “car alignment” at the top of their car maintenance list. Many of us know when to take care of the basics, such as tune-ups, oil changes, and fluid inspects, and battery replacement. Though, many leave out one of the most vital parts of safe driving—your tires.  Proper car alignment is compulsory if you want your vehicle to handle well, extend the life of your tires, and drive as safe as possible on the road.

Just what exactly is wheel alignment you ask?  Put simply, a wheel alignment service makes sure the wheels are similar to each other and perpendicular to the road. Although regular tire rotations help minimize wear and tear, it doesn’t make up for the wear caused by wheels that aren’t angled according to factory specifications.

But how do you know how often should wheel alignment be done?  Make it a practice to have your car alignment inspected each time you visit your auto repair shop for other types of maintenance.  Your auto mechanic can then identify any potential issues and stop them from becoming a costly repair.  The longer you delay to address small problems, the more they can end up costing you in the long-run.

Waiting until a tire blows out at the side of the road can lead to expensive repairs, tow service, and even an accident.  By recognizing the symptoms of improper car alignment, drivers can reduce their risk of expensive repair bills or even an accident.  Here are signs of misalignment to look out for:

• The car becomes off-center, making it more difficult to steer.
• Vibrating for no apparent reason to the side when driving. 
• Tires wear unevenly, making them ineffective for safe driving.  
• Added stress on the suspension system, risking damage to suspension components, and an expensive repair.
• An adverse effect on braking, compromising safety on the road.  
• Filling up with fuel more often due to “tire drag” from misaligned wheels.

Conscientious drivers will notice the signs of misalignment and have it corrected as soon as possible. Also, by driving carefully, drivers are more likely to avoid incidents that could cause misalignment issues in the first place, enabling them to benefit from greater safety on the road.

Need to know more about how often should wheel alignment be done?  Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about our car alignment services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Car Maintenance is Necessary?

The key to keeping your vehicle running stronger and longer than expected knows how to take care of it.  An assessment of the condition of your car, which includes general wear and tears to fluids, brakes, engines, tires, and more, should be done about every 12,000 miles.  If you take care of minor car repair problems as soon as you can, you will save time and money later down the road on major car repairs. It could also prevent an accident and save lives.

A benefit of keeping up with the recommended vehicle maintenance item is that the engine and its components can run at their most efficient level. Thus, your car will be more fuel-efficient, saving you money at the pump.  Also, if you should ever want to sell your car, you can ask for a higher price because you will be able to show a complete history of the vehicle maintenance that’s been done.

What car maintenance is necessary as you head out on a summer road trip?  Take the time to read through your vehicle owner’s manual. There you will find the vehicle maintenance schedule together with the suitable mileage interval for each service, including the following items:

• Oil change, including filter replacement
• Inspect the lights, both interior, and exterior
• Tires, including rotation and air pressure, inspect
• Muffler and Exhaust system
• Brake inspection
• Inspection of the steering system
• The engine is “tuned” to run in its peak condition
• Inspect hydraulic fluid and coolant levels
• Inspect the cooling system (radiator, belts, and hoses)
• Suspension system
• Car alignment
• Condition of the battery, as well as the alternator

Most of today’s newer vehicles have an in-vehicle service reminder system that will illuminate on the instrument panel when it is time for an oil change; fluid level inspects component inspections or other maintenance services.  For an older car, it is still vital to follow your vehicle owner’s manual, as the vehicle maintenance schedule is still based on the number of miles driven within a time period.

Do you want to know more about what car maintenance is necessary? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about vehicle maintenance and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.