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.

What Does a Car Diagnostic Test Tell You?

One of the most useful advances in the automotive industry has been computerization.  Because of the advances in technology, your auto mechanic can use a specialized computer to scan the operating systems in your vehicle.  Diagnostic tests are not just compulsory when the check engine light comes on.  There are various benefits to taking a proactive approach to car maintenance, including the need for a car tune up

What does a car diagnostic test tell you?  It can analyze the overall performance of your vehicle and pinpoint any potential issues as well as determine whether any adjustments to certain systems may be needed.  Your auto mechanic doesn’t have to guess anymore as to what kind of repair may be needed simply based on an issue you may have only experienced.

A diagnostic test can indicate issues associated with any of the following operating systems or components of your vehicle:

• Transmission, 
• Oil tank, 
• Gas tank, 
• Exhaust system
• Ignition timing problems, 
• Level of combustion buildup in the engine, 
• Fuel injector performance, 
• Engine rpm levels, 
• Condition of the ignition coils, 
• Air and coolant temperature, 
• Position of crankshaft and camshaft along with the throttle opening.  

In other words, a diagnostics test lets your auto mechanic know that it’s time for a car tune up!  Instead of spending your hard-earned money on fixing things by “trial and error,” issues can be identified long before they become major issues.  However, many auto technicians may recommend taking your car in for a diagnostic inspection at least once a year to uncover minor issues that can’t be seen.  It’s also beneficial when you’re inspecting out a used car so you know whether or not it’s a good deal.

Need to know more about what does a car diagnostic test tell you?  Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about a car tune up and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

Wondering when is a Transmission Fluid Change Needed?

If you are starting to notice transmission issues (see the list below), you may find yourself wondering when is a transmission fluid change needed?  Although transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for as long as you drive without changing it, most auto mechanics would tell you that the transmission fluid should be changed about every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

If you recognize the purpose of transmission fluid, you will recognize why your auto mechanic may recommend scheduling a transmission service to flush the transmission.  The main purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate surfaces and components of the transmission, which helps prevent excessive friction and overheating.  Also, as the transmission fluid, it is transmitting power from the engine to the transmission.  Eventually, if there are leaks in the transmission or there are worn-out or damaged components, the level of fluid can become dangerously low due.  

So how do you know when is a transmission fluid change needed?  Watch for these signs:

1. Delayed Shifting. The gears won’t engage instantly if there isn’t enough pressure in the transmission fluid. 
2. Difficulty Shifting. If there is a lot of dirt in the transmission fluid, the gears may change either too fast or too slow, too abruptly, or too erratically. You also may hear grinding sounds coming from the transmission or see unusually high RPMs before the gears shift. 
3. Slipping gears.  Although you know you changed gear, it seems to fall back out of that gear.  It is likely that the friction material on the clutches and transmission bands cannot securely hold the gear in place. 
4. Transmission Overheats. The transmission fluid keeps the automatic transmission from overheating.  If you notice a burning smell along with loss of power, pull over instantly and let everything cool down.

Try topping off the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t do the job and the above symptoms persist, you may be facing a major transmission repair. 

Are you looking for quality transmission repair? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when is a transmission fluid change needed and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What causes your headlights to not work?

With the longer days of summer, many customers may not think about their headlights and brake lights.  Though, make sure you keep an eye on them as they can burn out or stop working without you noticing.  It’s still vital that you have working headlights and brake lights so that you can be seen on those unexpected rainy days or for late-night driving.

So what causes your headlights to not work or seem extra dim?  There could be some reasons, including:

• Burned out bulbs:  If only one headlight is not working, the issue is usually a burned out bulb.  Have it replaced as soon as possible and then if it still doesn’t work, you will want your auto mechanic to inspect the wiring or fuses.
• High beam doesn’t work:  If the bulb isn’t the issue, it could be faulty wiring in the switch or relay.
• Electrical System:  If the lights dim only when the engine is idling and the brightness changes with the RPM, the issue may have to do with the electrical system.  This could involve an issue with a bad alternator or a loose belt.  If the alternator is fine, the accessories may be drawing too much power, such as aftermarket components.  In this case, a more powerful alternator may take care of the issue.
• Lights seem dim all the time:   The issue could be foggy lenses or worn out bulbs.  Over time, bulbs can lose their brightness so you may want to invest in a new set of bulbs.  Dirty, foggy, or oxidized lenses block the light.  Dirt is easy to clean.  Foggy lenses are an indication that water is getting into the headlight assembly.  It may want to be replaced.  Lenses that have oxidized can be reconditioned.  This involves removing the oxidation and then applying a protective coating.

In older model vehicles, the average person could replace burned out headlights or brake lights themselves.  But with the design of today’s vehicles, the lights are much harder to access.  Unless you have the right equipment, it is much smarter to go straight to your auto mechanic who has the right tools and diagnostic equipment to check the headlight system, inspect the fuses, switches and relays, and then either repair or replace as needed.

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

What Happens If You Neglect Regular Oil Changes?

New and inexperienced vehicle owners may not understand what happens if they neglect regular oil changes.  Experienced car owners may have experienced first-hand what kind of damage can take place in the engine if the oil is not changed on a regular basis.

In case you are confused about the exact oil change interval for your vehicle, and the type of oil to use, read your owner’s manual.  This is the guideline suggested by the manufacturer to ensure that your vehicle will keep running strong for lots of miles.

There are some benefits for keeping up with regular oil changes:

• Extends your engine’s longevity
• Optimizes your vehicle’s performance
• Prevents excessive engine wear and tear
• Keeps engine parts lubricated
• Prevents engine overheating

So what happens if you neglect regular oil changes?  With use and time, oil deteriorates and loses its effectiveness. It’s time for an oil change if you see any of the warning signs below:

1. Dark and dirty oil.
2. Noisy engine because of lack of lubrication
3. Oil change warning light comes on.
4. Smoke coming from the muffler.
5. Oil smell inside the car, combined with gas or exhaust fumes.

Even though oil changes are relatively quick and cheap, because of schedules and budgets, it is easy for people to put off the needed oil change.  Because auto repair technicians really do want their customers to be driving safe vehicles, lots of auto shops offer oil change coupons to make this service more affordable.  Ask your auto mechanic or go to your auto shop’s website and find their oil change coupons. 

Are you wondering what happens if you neglect regular oil changes? Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for their oil change coupons and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

When Should Wheel Alignment Be Done?

Have you noticed that toddlers often put their shoes on the wrong feet?  Their toes are pointing the wrong direction!  This is a little example of driving with wheels that are not correctly aligned.  The wheels of your car aren’t pointed in the same direction as the steering wheel.  

The simple act of hitting a curb or running through a pothole can damage your alignment as much as a major accident.  Wheels out of alignment will cause your tires to wear more unevenly and faster than normal.  Misalignment problems will also decrease your vehicle’s fuel economy as well as could be the cause of losing control of your car, especially in wet conditions.

There is no set schedule for having an alignment service.  Though, most auto mechanics recommend having the front alignment checked about every 6,000 miles (or every other oil change depending on your service interval).  And, keep checking your tires!  At the first sign of uneven tire wear, you should schedule an alignment service.  Also, it’s suggested to have a wheel alignment any time you have a new set of tires installed on your vehicle. 

A periodic wheel alignment service will restore your car’s handling and safety, increase fuel economy, prevent damage to vital vehicle components, plus extend the life of your tires. The price of an alignment service is relatively inexpensive compared to the cost of replacing tires or repairs to the suspension system.

If you have steering issues or notice uneven tread wear, have the front alignment inspected as soon as you can.  Don’t compromise the safety of your vehicle!

Have questions about a front alignment service?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when should wheel alignment be done and make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

What Are Signs Of Bad Struts?

What gives you a smooth and relaxed ride in your vehicle?  It’s the automotive shocks, depending on your vehicle!  The purpose of the steering and suspension systems is to keep your ride smooth and safe, working together in harmony.  But as the miles accumulate on your car, the components of these two systems will ultimately wear out.  

Just like most of the other parts and systems in a vehicle, automotive shocks and struts have a specific maintenance schedule. Your auto mechanic may advise to replacing these parts between every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.  Of course, the lifetime of shocks and struts will depend largely on how and where you drive.  Do you drive mainly on smooth straight roads, or do you travel over roads filled with ruts and potholes?  

So what are signs of bad struts or automotive shocks?

• Poor steering response.
• Swaying and leaning when turning and changing lanes.
• Vehicle bounces excessively when driving.
• Braking performance is unstable.
• Vehicle Nosedives when braking hard.
• Tire "Cupping" as the rubber wears off the tire every time it hits the ground.
• Hydraulic Fluid leaking from inside the strut or shock.

If you notice that you are struggling to control your vehicle as you drive down the road, check out the shocks or struts. For increased safety, stopping performance, vehicle stability, and control, it may be time to replace your car shocks or struts.  

Are you wondering what are signs of bad struts and automotive shocks?  Call the ASE-certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about the suspension system and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

Wondering How Many Miles Should You Service Your Car?

There are several factors that will affect how many miles you should service your car:  These are:  

• The amount of miles you drive.
• The service history of your vehicle.
• The condition of the road you travel on.

So at how many miles should you service your car?  Many auto mechanics recommend that you have a basic car service every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.  If you drive a lot of miles during a year, you should try to have an interim service about every 6 months or 6,000 miles.  These services should include a inspect of all the fluid levels, oil and filter change, and lubricate all the moving car parts.  Of course, with the proficiency of your mechanic together with your owner’s manual, you should choose the best level of service for your circumstances. 

Most Modern cars have taken the guesswork out of knowing when to service your car.  Many cars today have an in-built computer that will flash on the dashboard when your car has reached its service interval.  If your car doesn’t have this service alert, ask your car repair expert about the specific servicing requirements for your vehicle. 

Remember:  Regular car service increases the safety, reliability and long life of your vehicle.  Small faults can be discovered early and taken care of before they become a major issue.  Moreover, research shows that vehicles that have received regular service have a resale value of up to 26% more than similar vehicles that have not received regular service. 

Are you looking for quality car repair?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about how many miles should you service your car and make an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

When Should You Change Transmission Fluid?

If you’re wondering when should you change transmission fluid in your vehicle, you may want to know just what is the purpose of transmission fluid.  First, it lubricates all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to prevent the friction that causes overheating, and secondly, it transmits power from the engine to the transmission. 

A topic of controversy among mechanics is when should you change transmission fluid?  Some say that transmission fluid should never want to be changed.  But some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing transmission fluid about every 100K miles, while some say about every 50K miles.  Find your owner’s manual to see what it has to say, and then discuss the topic with a trusted auto mechanic.

In spite of the facts above, it is a fact that transmission fluid deteriorates over time.  Particular driving conditions raise the transmission’s operating temperature and put more strain on the transmission and the fluid, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling weighty loads, or towing.   If your vehicle has a lot of miles, it could be that the transmission could be developing a leak.  

So when should you change transmission fluid?  If the fluid has turned darker than usual it may be time for a transmission flush. Or, if you start to notice a burned odor, it could an indication that the transmission is developing issues, such as 

1. Delayed shifting. 
2. Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
3. Slipping in and out of gear. 
4. Overheating and burning smell.

If you have the transmission fluid inspected about every month, you can keep tabs on its condition, and prevent an expensive transmission repair down the road. 

Are you wondering when should you change transmission fluid in your vehicle?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about a transmission fluid change and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.