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What Causes Your Car to Keep Blowing Fuses?

Every passenger vehicle has a fuse box. Fuses are electrical devices that are designed to stop circuits from being overloaded. When automotive fuses blow, they will cause problems with the functioning and accessories of your vehicle. If your car’s windshield wipers, power windows and locks, turn signals, or interior lights suddenly cease to function, then you may have a blown fuse on your hands.

What causes your car to keep blowing fuses?

If your car blows a fuse: Consult your car’s owner’s manual to find the location of the fuse box. The assigned circuit for each fuse should be shown in a diagram. Some fuses will easily come out by hand, while others might require the use of a pair of pliers. A blown fuse will be black on the inside with a melted metal ribbon, and the glass encasing might be cloudy. Visually inspect each fuse and replace faulty ones as needed.

Replacing faulty fuses in your vehicle is an easy fix, but there might be an underlying factor that causes them to keep blowing out. Here are the 2 most common reasons that your car keeps blowing fuses.

  • Your car has a short circuit. Automotive fuses are used to protect the electrical components and wiring system for your vehicle. A short in the electrical system will just cause a fuse to blow, rather than the wiring overheating or melting. A short is just a poor connection between two conductors that supply electricity, causing an electrical overload in the circuit. Fixing a short circuit is much easier than identifying the location of the problem. There are 3 typical causes of a short circuit in your car:
    • Fraying of the wire insulation. If one of the wires is frayed and becomes exposed, it can touch the metal frame or the ground, causing a short in the circuit. The wire might move around a lot and only occasionally come into contact with a surface, causing intermittent shorts. This is still enough to blow a fuse.
    • An electrical device is malfunctioning. Internal damage to your windshield wiper motor or power locking components can cause these systems to use more current flow than normal to keep working. This will overload the circuit causing it to short.
    • A conductor is being exposed to the elements. If there is a leak somewhere in your car, fluid could be wetting the wiring harness and connection points. A wet conductor can easily cause the circuit to short.
  • Improper fuse replacement. Fuses can keep blowing out if someone has replaced a blown fuse with one of higher amperage. There are a lot of different types of automotive fuses in both amperage and material. Your vehicle’s manual should contain a diagram showing the correct amperage rating for each fuse and the circuit that it is in. If you are unsure as to the amperage required for your car’s fuses, consult an automotive professional to be sure that the right fuse is being used in the right location.

If your car keeps blowing fuses, you need to get to the underlying cause of the problem. Replacing a fuse is an easy, cheap fix, but problems that keep causing fuses to blow can be much more complicated. For all of your auto service and repair needs in the Phoenix, Arizona area, you can trust the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Our ASE certified technicians have a reputation for doing the highest quality work and providing outstanding customer service. Just book an appointment online or give us a call at (602) 266-0200.

Car Battery Trouble Shooting: What is wrong with my battery? What should I do?

car battery

Here are some helpful tips to keep your car battery functioning properly 

What is wrong with my battery? What should I do?

We have all been there.  We put the key in the ignition, turn it, and…nothing happens.  Most people would assume that this means the battery is dead and while that may be true, there are some other things that can act like a dead battery.  To help you figure out the source of your problem so that you can figure out what to do next, let’s look at the different battery related problems and how to solve them.

  1. It is, in fact, completely dead.

A dead battery means a battery that no longer contains enough of a charge to provide the electricity required to start the car.  Batteries lose their ability to hold a charge over time and most batteries, according to Firestone, only last for 3-5 years.   The climate you live in and the way you drive will affect how long your battery lasts.  If your car is a couple years old, a dead battery could mean it is time to replace it.  If your battery dies, you jumpstart it and drive it, and the next time you go to start it the battery is dead again, there is a good chance it needs to be replaced.  Have your tech check the charge and replace the battery if needed.

  1. It is only drained.

Batteries can also lose their charge in a short amount of time if something that requires the battery is left on after the car stops running like the radio, headlights, or interior lights.  If you are able to jumpstart the car, look around to see if you left anything on that could have drained the battery.  If the car starts easily the next time you go to drive it, it is likely something was left on that drained the battery the first time and no other action needs to be taken.

  1. It isn’t the battery at all.

If your battery dies and your attempts to get the car started using jumper cables doesn’t work, there is a good chance the problem is not the battery at all.  In addition to the battery, the starter and the alternator must be functioning in order for the car to start.  If you turn the key and all you hear is a clicking sound, you may have a problem with your starter.  If you turn the key and hear a whining sound or nothing at all, it may be a problem with the alternator.  Your repair shop will be able to diagnose the problem although you may have to have it towed there if you can’t get it to start.

So, if you are having trouble starting the car, don’t assume it is the battery.  Your best bet, whenever the battery dies, is to have your repair shop take a look so that you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of the road.

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Ask the Car Guy: How Can Carbon Build-up Impact My Engine?

Matt Allen, Owner of Virginia Auto Service, cohost of Bumper to Bumper Radio

Matt Allen, Owner of Virginia Auto Service, cohost of Bumper to Bumper Radio

Dear Car Guy,

I keep hearing about carbon build-up and that it can hurt my car. Can you please explain what carbon build-up is and how it can impact my engine?

Thank you,

Bill Q., Phoenix, AZ

Hi, Bill,

Many car manufacturers are now using direct-injection (DI) technology in their new designs because it increases fuel efficiency (meaning MPG).

This technology, which was initially created to make diesel engines quieter and more fuel efficient, changes the way fuel enters the engine.  This change allows carbon, a black sooty dust, to build-up on the engine’s intake valve and other surfaces inside the engine.

Auto Repair Phoenix - carbon build up

In port-injection engines, the fuel enters the engine before the intake valve.  This means that the fuel is flowing over the valve as part of the engine’s normal operation.  Most gasoline sold today contains additives whose sole job is to help remove carbon from the intake valve and other parts of the engine and these additives do their work as the fuel flows into the intake valve.  But DI bypasses that process, injecting the fuel directly into the cylinder.  This means the additives in the fuel never come in contact with the surfaces most likely to experience carbon build-up.

When carbon builds-up in the car’s engine it can cause a couple different problems.  First, the engine will lose power.  One of the main problems carbon build-up does is to change the ratio of fuel to air in the engine.  This can happen if sensors stop functioning properly because of carbon build-up or if build-up keeps the intake valve from closing properly.  This can make the engine sluggish and cause it to stall.  Carbon build-up can also significantly degrade fuel efficiency, causing the car to get fewer miles to the gallon than it should be getting.

There are some things that will cause carbon to build-up faster that those with cars that are prone to carbon build-up problems should avoid.  Filling the tank with low grade gasoline which is less purified and usually has a higher concentration of contaminants can increase carbon build-up in the engine.  If the ratio of fuel to air is off, as mentioned above, carbon will accumulate more quickly.  Using the car primarily for short trips can also increase problems with carbon build-up as the engine doesn’t run long enough or hard enough to get hot enough to burn any of the carbon off.

The cars that are at the highest risk for carbon build-up problems are those that use DI, although not all cars that these types of fuel injection system have experienced this issue.  Audis, Mini Coopers, and some VW and BMW models are the cars that seem most prone to carbon build-up.  For owners of these cars, the carbon build-up problem means they must invest in additional maintenance on a regular basis to have the carbon cleaned from their engine.

When cars experience issues with carbon build-up, the build-up must be cleaned out of the engine.  Most auto repair shops can perform this kind of service but it can be costly, depending on the type of car and the work required to remove the build-up.  If your car is having any of these problems, have your repair shop check it over and recommend what can be done to solve the immediate issue and over the long term to protect your engine and keep your car on the road.

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4 Common Power Steering Problems to Watch Out For

common power steering problems

Make sure you know these warning signs to keep your power steering operating smoothly.

The job of the power steering unit in your car is to make steering easier and the various components work together to achieve this goal.  The power steering unit is a hydraulic system that uses the build-up of pressure to push the wheels in the direction indicated by the steering wheel.  If one of the components isn’t working properly, the pressure may not be able to build-up properly instantly making the car much more difficult to steer.   But loss of pressure isn’t the only power steering problem your car can experience.  Here are the most common power steering problems so you know when it is time to see your repair technician.

  1. A Leak in the Power Steering Unit

A leak within the power steering unit is the most common power steering problem.  There are some easy to recognize signs that you have a power steering fluid leak.  The first is that you will see fluid on the ground on the driver’s side of the car after it has been parked there for awhile, similar to what you would see with an oil leak.  Another sure sign that you have a leak is a car that makes a grinding noise whenever it is turned.  This indicates there is a serious problem with the level of power steering fluid that must be addressed before the car is driven.  Failing to do so can cause serious damage.

  1. A Drive Belt that is Slipping, Worn, or Loose

The second most common power steering problem is a slipping, worn, or loose drive belt.  If you hear a loud screeching noise whenever you make a sharp turn, there is a very good chance your drive belt is slipping.  In newer cars, this may be a problem with the serpentine belt, which is used instead of a drive belt.  Get this problem fixed as soon as possible to avoid damage.

  1. A Cracked, Peeling, or Worn Hose

One of the most common sources of power steering fluid leaks is damaged and worn-out hoses.  The hoses convey the power steering fluid throughout the system.  Over time, they can become cracked or damaged, begin to peel, or simply wear out.  If you are driving and it suddenly becomes very difficult to steer, there is a good chance a busted hose is to blame.  The best way to avoid a leak is to routinely inspect your power steering hoses, especially once your car has been in use for several years.

  1. The Hose Coupling is Creeping Off

Over time, the coupling on the hose that carries the power steering fluid throughout the unit can begin to creep off.  You should be able to identify this problem with a simple visual inspection.  If the coupling creeps all the way off, you will lose power steering fluid and experience the problems above.  If the coupling seems to be creeping, take it in and have the tech at your repair shop check it out.

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How to Reduce Common Car Repair Costs?

One of the first things that come to our minds when faced with car repairs is the cost factor. You immediately think of what a car repair is going to cost you.

But here’s the thing – most people don’t realize that most high cost car repairs can be easily avoided if they ensure regular car maintenance and practice good driving habits.

Of course, if you have a reliable and superlative car repair service, it can be an added bonus.

Coming back to the question of how to avoid high-cost car repairs, here are five areas of focus that can not only help reduce your car repairs costs but can actually help you avoid a number of common car troubles.

Tip # 1 – Take your Car for Routine Maintenance

Most car owners don’t realize how much harm they are doing to their cars when they miss or ignore regular car maintenance.

  • When you take your car for professional car maintenance, your car technician performs a number of checks, repairs, and if necessary, part replacement(s) so your car is in top condition.
  • So not only does this help address any current car repairs or issues, but it can also help you avoid potential car problems in the future. 
  • Regular maintenance is useful for another important reason – routine checks, repairs, and preventive maintenance can help in slowing down wear and tear of the different mechanical parts.
  • Thus, your car’s operational efficiency goes up which means better fuel efficiency, better car performance, and improved longevity. 

Tip # 2 – Take the Warning Lights on your Dashboard Seriously

Ignoring warning lights on the car dashboard is a common but extremely harmful action that several car owners are guilty of.

If you find the warning lights come on, check your car manual to find out what problem the light is indicating towards.

If you are unsure, please consult with a professional car technician at the earliest.  Your car technician will identify the exact cause and then go ahead and fix the issue.

A word of advice – if you see the “check engine” light flash, and you are unable to identify the exact fault, have it checked by a professional car technician. Car engine repairs are some of the most costly car repairs – you can easily avoid substantial repair costs by acting on the issue in a timely manner.

On top of this – you certainly don’t want to have car failure when you are out on the road during a Phoenix summer.

Tip # 3 – Take Care of Your Car Battery

Routine battery checks are important as they help in identifying and addressing both current and future trouble. Your car technician will carry out a complete battery check when you take your car for routine maintenance.

If your car or the battery has crossed three years, we advise regular checkups – this will help in ensuring long car battery life and fewer battery problems.

Tip # 4 – Check Car Fluid Levels Regularly

Five fluids levels you need to regularly check include – engine oil, transmission oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolants.

Over a period of time these fluids can become contaminated from all the debris build-up leading to a number of car troubles.

Ensure your car fluid levels are as per what is recommended in your driver’s manual. If the fluids levels are low, top them up. Or if required, flush the fluids and replace with fresh fluids.

When you take your car for professional maintenance, your car technician will check the fluid levels, clean the parts, and then refill or top up the fluid levels.

Tip # 5 – The Importance of Safe Driving

Hitting bumps and potholes at high speeds can inflict a lot of damage on your car. If you drive on bad roads or in bad weather conditions or if you are in the habit of continuously speeding and braking, it can take a toll on your car performance. 

These actions can place a lot of stress on different car parts and lead to faster wear and tear.

As a result, you might end up having to replace parts far more frequently – you could be looking at repairs to your suspension, tire damage, wheel alignment, or steering wheel issues.

By practicing safe driving, you can easily avoid these damages and repairs.

Reliable Car Maintenance with Professional Auto Experts!

If you are looking for professional and credible car repair service for your car, give Virginia Auto Service a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online.

Why does my car sputter on acceleration?

Does your car sputter when you step on the accelerator? If yes, it could be because you are low on gas.

However, if your tanks are full, then it could indicate a different kind of car trouble starting from either the fuel system in your car or a faulty exhaust or even worn out parts.

It is important to note that the problem will not self-correct over a period. If left unaddressed, it can lead to expensive repair costs which are not appealing even in the age of lower taxes.

Why does my car sputter on acceleration?

Here are five of the most common reasons why your car sputters when you accelerate.

1. Failing Catalytic Converter

If your car has a faulty or a failing catalytic converter, the engine will sputter or run rough.

  • When the catalytic converter is faulty, its ability to burn hydrocarbons within the exhaust get hampered which means the breakdown of sulfur produced by the engine will no longer happen.
  • For this reason, you may get a smell akin to rotten eggs if the catalytic converter is failing.
  • Another symptom that your catalytic converter is failing is when your dashboard lights up with the “check engine light.”
  • If the catalytic converter gets completely blocked, the car will not start.

2. Dirty Fuel Injectors

  • The job of the fuel injectors is to supply the cylinders with required fuel which mixes with the air and ignites. This ignition is necessary to power up the engine.
  • However, over a period, the fuel injector nozzle can get blocked leading to the engine sputtering when you accelerate.
  • Timely cleaning of the fuel injectors can prevent any kind of clogging. If, however, the fuel injectors are not routinely cleaned, they can get damaged and will need to be replaced.

3. Dirty Spark Plugs

If the spark plugs which help the fuel ignite within the combustion chamber are damaged or dirty, they will not be able to ignite the fuel.

When this happens, the engine will sputter, or you may experience a misfire. At this point, the spark plugs will have to be cleaned or replaced based on the level of damage and you don’t want to be doing this on the side of the road in a Phoenix summer.

4. Faulty Oxygen Sensors

  • The job of oxygen sensors is to keep a track of exhaust gases for how rich or lean they are at the point of leaving the combustion chamber.
  • This information is then passed on to the computer which then makes the necessary adjustments to the quantity of fuel inside the engine.
  • If your oxygen sensors are damaged or dirty, they will not be able to pass on this critical information to the car’s computer which means the computer will not be able to adjust the fuel entering the engine leading to the engine sputtering.
  • If you take your car for routine maintenance, your car technician will ensure they are replaced as and when required.

5. Leakage in the Exhaust Manifold

  • If your exhaust manifold which is responsible for collecting the exhaust gases springs a leak, you may experience your car engine sputtering upon acceleration.
  • Your engine will also become very noisy and its overall performance will drop.
  • The danger of a leak in the exhaust manifold is that the hot gases can damage the surrounding car parts, or the exhaust fumes could also enter the cabin of the car.
  • One of the first signs to watch out for is the “check engine light” flashing on your dashboard.

Notify a Professional

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is best to have your car checked up by a professional car technician at the earliest.

Keep in mind that the sputtering will not go away; in most cases, if the engine sputters on acceleration, it could be symptomatic of a wide variety of serious car troubles.

If you ignore the problem, over a period, your car will suffer from dropping engine performance and eventually not start at all.

Routine maintenance can help address most of the car troubles that you face. During a service visit, your car technician will carry out a complete checkup of all car parts and make necessary repairs or replace the parts as and when needed.

Reliable Car Maintenance with Professional Auto Experts!

Does your car sputter upon acceleration? Are you facing any of the above-mentioned warning signs?

If yes, you can visit us at Virginia Auto Service for a speedy resolution to all your car troubles. You can also reach us at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online as per your convenience.

Extend Your Car Battery Life With These Top 6 Tips

extend your car battery life with these top 6 tips

In our previous post, we spoke about four major reasons behind why your car battery drains. In this post, we are going to cover six ways to extend and preserve the lifecycle of your car battery.

The ignition system is responsible for starting the car engine. However, it is the car battery that is responsible for generating an electrical charge. In turn, this charge helps to power up the ignition of your car.

Therefore, it is so important to not only maintain but to also ensure that your car has a functioning and charged up battery.

6 Ways to Keep Your Car Battery Running Long

Most car batteries come with a shelf life of 2-5 years. However, several factors can influence the lifecycle of your car battery.

These include the climate, how often you service your car, how often you test your battery and usage of other electronics while the car is idling, or even extended periods of idling. If the lights of your car are left on overnight, it could completely drain your car battery. A faulty alternator or electrical fault could also lead to your car battery draining.

To get the best mileage out of your car battery, consider the following.

1. Allow the Battery to Charge Completely

One of the most effective ways of ensuring your car battery is completely charged is by running your car for long periods.

  • Driving short distances limits the charging process of the battery.
  • The frequency also matters, so make sure you drive your car regularly.
  • If left idle for long periods of time, the car battery will drain.
  • If you are unable to drive around for long periods or long distances, invest in a portable battery which can help you jump start your car anytime the car battery dies.

2. Ensure the Battery is Fastened and Secure

If your car battery is not tightly secured in place, it will end up vibrating which could lead to short circuits or internal damage. If you drive frequently on uneven roads, be sure to check your battery terminals to ensure it is sitting securely in the mounting rack.

  • If you are not sure how to do this or are not confident about checking this, consult with a professional mechanic.
  • Regular servicing is the best way to make sure all the components and parts are in place and secure.

3. Never Forget to Turn Off the Lights

As mentioned above, if you leave the car lights on overnight, you will wake up to a dead battery!

Here are few things you can do to avoid this:

  • Make it a habit to check your car lights before exiting your vehicle.
  • Make sure the doors and the trunk are closed firmly.
  • If you are forgetful, consider placing stickers or post-it’s on your car remote or dashboard reminding yourself to check the lights. (Though, most new cars will not allow the lights to remain on for this very reason.)
  • Park your car in relative darkness, so you can see if the lights are still on inside the car or park it in a direction where you are required to walk past the front of your car while going inside your house.

4. Limit Corrosion

Cleaning the battery terminals is crucial if you want to avoid corrosion. You can follow these DIY tips to clean the battery terminals.

  • Make a mix of water and baking soda, dip a tooth brush in the mix and scrub the terminals.
  • Spray clean the mix with clean cold water.
  • Wipe and dry the terminals with a clean cloth.

If, however, you are not comfortable doing this yourself, a mechanic can always help you out.

5. Test your Car Battery on a Routine Basis

Unless you know the condition of your battery, it will be difficult to maximize its life cycle.

  • You can use a car battery tester to check the output voltage level of your car battery.
  • This way you will know if the condition of your battery is still good, or if it is time to replace the battery.

6. Reduce or Limit use of Electrical Accessories

The air conditioners, radio, phone charge, CD players, and USB ports are all battery drainers.

  • Only use essential electrical accessories such as the car air conditioner.
  • Try not to overburden the battery by using too many electrical components at one time.
  • Turn off any of these components (like the air conditioners or radio) when the engine is not running.

Proper Maintenance is Key

Battery care and maintenance is a crucial aspect of taking care of your car. Although the battery is a vital component of the car, if there are issues with other components such as the electrical systems, it will eventually impact the performance of your car.

While keeping your car battery charged, it is important that you carry out routine servicing for your entire car. This is one of the best ways of extending the lifecycle of your car battery.

Professional Auto Care that you can Trust!

Is your car battery draining too quickly? Wondering if it is time to replace your car battery? We can help you. Call Virginia Auto Service today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online at your convenience.

 

5 Strange Noises Your Car Makes, And What They Mean

Did you know that, if you listen, your vehicle can tell you quite a bit? Your car will often communicate to you that it has a problem in the form of squeals, rattles, and knocks. You drive your vehicle the most and you know the sounds it usually makes, so when you hear something new, pay attention. These vehicle grumbles are often the first sign that something is going wrong.


This is a list of five strange noises your vehicle may make, and what could be causing them:

Squealing

Often, a squealing heard coming from under the hood of your vehicle that fluctuates based on speed, indicates a loose belt or two. When loose or showing signs of wear, power steering belts will make a shrill squealing noise. Fan and air conditioning belts will make a similar sound. If you hear a loud squealing, you should have your belts inspected right away. A power steering belt can be both dangerous and create serious damage if it breaks while you are driving.

Screeching

If you hear a high-pitched screeching noise when you attempt to stop your vehicle, it means that it is time to have your brakes inspected. Brake pads are made with indicators on them that create the screeching noise when the pads are worn down too low and need replacing. If you pay attention to this noise as soon as it begins to present itself, the only thing you will have to change is the brake pads. If you delay, you will increase your chances of causing further damage to the vehicle resulting in more expensive repairs.

Rumbling

If you are hearing low and rhythmic rumbling noises, it indicates that there is a problem with the exhaust system or either of the drive line components. If it is a problem with the exhaust system it could be coming from the converter, exhaust pipe, or muffler. Each of these could become a serious problem and you should not delay in bringing your vehicle in for repairs.

Knocking

If you hear a recurring knocking or pounding sound, it may mean that there is a problem with your vehicles connecting rod bearings, crankshaft, or transmission. Each of these could be a serious threat to the safety and performance of your vehicle and needs to be taken care of right away.

Clicking

A clicking sound can indicate a few different things. It might mean that there is a bent or loose fan blade, or that you have a loose wheel cover. It could also indicate that your oil levels are low or one of your valve lifters is stuck. These problems can become serious if not remedied in a timely manner, so if your vehicle is clicking, bring it in as soon as you can.

If you pay attention to the noises your car is making and have them taken care of in a timely manner, you will keep your vehicle running in peak condition, prevent further damage and more expensive repairs, and prolong your vehicle’s road life. So, the next time your vehicle speaks to you, listen closely to what it has to say.

If you are hearing any of the noises listed above, bring your vehicle into the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Call (602) 266-0200 or schedule an appointment online.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Fuel Pump

Your vehicle is made of many components that work together to keep it running smoothly. One such component is the fuel pump.

Most people are aware of the existence of the fuel pump, but they don’t give it much thought. However, as the fuel pump plays an important part in ensuring your vehicle operates efficiently, it should not be ignored.

What is the purpose of the fuel pump?

As you know, your engine is on the opposite side of your vehicle than your fuel tank. The fuel pump, which is located either next to or inside of the gas tank, is meant to bring fuel to the engine of your vehicle. Modern vehicles are equipped with an electrical fuel pump which transfers a continuous stream of fuel at the correct pressure and volume from its fuel tank to the fuel injection on its engine. This is what allows the engine to perform properly under various driving conditions and degrees of fuel consumption. If your fuel pump is properly cared for, it can last for the life of your vehicle.

How can you take care of your fuel pump?

As we stated above, your fuel pump is likely to last for the life of your vehicle, so long as it is properly cared for. But how do you take care of a fuel pump? The answer is actually very simple- keep your car fueled up. It is recommended that you never let your fuel level drop lower than a quarter of a tank. The fuel that is in the tank helps to keep the fuel pump cool. If your tank is allowed to get to empty, the fuel pump can overheat. If you continuously allow the tank to get too low the fuel pump will eventually wear out.

Another way to help maintain your fuel pump is to change your fuel filter, which is located in the fuel line, as recommended. You can find specifics on your vehicle in your owner’s manual, but a general recommendation is around every 50,000 miles. The fuel filter helps clean the fuel that goes to the injectors. The less dirt and debris that collects and builds up on your fuel pump, the longer it will last.

How can you tell there is something wrong with the fuel pump?

There are a few things that indicate there may be a problem with your fuel pump including:

  • A noise coming from the pump area
  • Long engine crank before starting
  • Lack of power
  • Stalling
  • Vehicle fails to start regardless of the motor turning over

Unfortunately, in some cases, there may not be any warning signs. However, if you are performing regular maintenance and keeping your gas tank filled past a quarter of a tank, you shouldn’t have any problems with the fuel pump.

If you are noticing any of the above complications with your vehicle or to schedule regular maintenance, we invite you to schedule an appointment with the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Call us at 602-266-0200 or schedule your next appointment online.

 

What to Do If You Have a Radiator Leak

Most people are guilty of putting off auto repair at one point or another. For some issues, this may be okay for a short time. For others, you never want to delay repair. One such item of repair that you never want to delay would be a leaking radiator.

Your radiator is a key component in your vehicle’s cooling system, which means it helps to keep the engine running cool. If a leaking radiator is not repaired quickly it could result in your engine overheating- which could mean expensive engine repair or even replacement. Should you at any point notice the temperature gauge rising on your dashboard and/or steam coming from under the hood, you should pull over and shut off your vehicle immediately. Even overheating for a short time can result in head gasket damage or possibly even engine failure.

What causes leaking radiators?

In most cases, radiator leaks are a result of failing to regularly maintain the vehicle with things such as coolant flushes- which permit oxidation of the cooling system. Another major cause of radiator leaks is over-pressurization. This occurs when the thermostat sticks, or a head gasket fails.

Most radiator leaks are found at a joint that is between the radiators tank and core. To make vehicle’s more fuel efficient, today they are made with materials like “plastic-based” composites, which means they can crack easier. If the tank is cracked it could be from a blown head gasket which lets highly pressurized exhaust be pushed into the cooling system.

How do you know if you have a radiator leak?

  • Low coolant levels. When you are performing regular maintenance on your vehicle, such as oil changes, take a moment to check to see if your coolant level is sufficient. If you notice lowered levels of coolant, it is possible that you have a leak.
  • Fluid under the vehicle. If the leak is bad enough, you won’t have to look under the hood to know it’s there. Instead, you will see a pool of yellow/orange, pink, or green fluid under your vehicle.
  • Increased engine temperature. If your engine temperature rises it is usually a warning sign that you have a radiator leak.

If you think that you have a leak in the radiator it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible. The automotive repair experts at Virginia Auto Service can help determine how large your leak is and where it is located.

Should you use radiator sealant?

To use these products is like using a band-aid when you need stitches. They don’t quite get the job done, and we certainly don’t recommend them for long-term use. Not all the glue will make it to the location of the leak and will stick to other places, potentially causing a blockage. If you are going to use them, only do so in the event of an emergency to help you get your vehicle to our mechanics.

Dealing with radiator leaks quickly can prevent further and more expensive damage to your engine. If you experience complications with your vehicle, contact the automotive repair experts at Virginia Auto Service today. Call (602) 266-0200 or schedule an appointment online.

 

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