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What causes a windshield washer fluid leak?

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When you’re on vacation, running errands, or on the way to work, washer fluid can get rid of dirt, bugs and other smudges that collect on your windshield.

There may come a time where – for a variety of reasons – the windshield won’t clear up. When this happens, it can impact your ability to see and be a real nuisance.

A windshield washer fluid leak is one of the windshield problems you could run into.

What are windshield washer fluid leak symptoms?

Have you noticed that windshield washer fluid isn’t being released when you try to clear the windshield?

Sometimes, the fluid just needs to be topped off. But it’s also possible that your car has a windshield washer fluid leak.

Low windshield washer fluid can be another sign. You or a technician may have noticed the fluid level isn’t where it’s supposed to be. When looking over a Honda Accord, we found that the washer fluid was low.

You might also see washer fluid leaking from under the car towards the front (usually in front of the driver or passenger wheels). Typically, windshield washer fluid is blue. However, it can also be orange, green or purple.

If washer fluid is leaking down into the cowling area, the fluid could be smelled in the cabin.

Low windshield washer fluid on Honda Accord.
Low windshield washer fluid on Honda Accord

Why is windshield washer fluid leaking from under my car?

Did you notice that your vehicle has a windshield washer fluid leak? Washer fluid may be found under your car if something is wrong with certain parts.

You could have fluid leaking from a few areas, such as the reservoir, the pump, the lines or the nozzles.

Can I drive with leaking washer fluid?

Yes, you can drive a vehicle when the windshield washer fluid is leaking. 

But it’s a good idea to have the leak resolved as soon as you can.

How do I figure out where my washer is leaking?

Some customers will bring their vehicle in because they spotted a leak. In other cases, we will notice leaking washer fluid during a maintenance service or when addressing another problem.

If you think your windshield washer fluid is leaking, you can bring it to a nearby auto repair shop.

Our process for determining where washer fluid is leaking is pretty simple. We pop the hood, check the plumbing and tank, and add fluid. 

Rear washer fluid line leaking on GMC Yukon.
Rear washer fluid line leaking on GMC Yukon

What parts commonly cause washer leaks?

Windshield washer fluid leaks can spring up in a few places. The components that could cause washer leaks include:

  • Windshield washer fluid reservoir
  • Windshield washer hoses
  • Windshield washer nozzles
  • Windshield washer pump seal

Your reservoir that holds a majority of the washer fluid might get a crack in it, and the windshield washer pump has a seal that may leak.

You have very very flimsy windshield washer hoses that go up to your windshield washer nozzles. The hoses are probably the most common for leaking because they’re flimsy and can crack. We worked on a GMC Yukon where the rear washer fluid line was leaking.

We’ve also seen cracks develop in the nozzles themselves.

Whether you’ve noticed a symptom that points to a leak, or windshield washer fluid just isn’t hitting your windshield right, having an automotive expert look at the problem can give you much needed clarity.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Do I have a coolant leak?

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Temperature is an important factor when it comes to a car’s engine.

Coolant is used to maintain the temperature of the engine, allowing it to operate correctly and safely.

Sometimes, coolant leaks develop in the cooling system.

How does the cooling system work?

The cooling system is made up of a few components that keep the engine operating at a safe temperature.

When the engine block hits to a specific temperature, a thermostat slowly opens, allowing coolant to flow from the water pump to the radiator. The coolant goes to the heater core and, then, the engine block.

What are symptoms of a coolant leak?

A few signs will present themselves when your car has a coolant leak.

These are some symptoms you may notice:

Visible coolant leaks: Sometimes coolant leaks can’t be seen. But, depending on the location of the leak, drivers might notice coolant leaking from their vehicle (usually the center of the car’s front).

Coolant can be green, orange, pink, red or yellow.

Low coolant on Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Low coolant on Toyota FJ Cruiser

Low coolant: The coolant level could also be low if a leak is present. 

Engine overheating: You may come across another indicator while operating your car. The engine temperature light might appear on your dashboard, telling you that the engine is overheating.

What are common causes of coolant leaks?

Coolant leaks can be the result of rust, corrosion and impacts.

Sometimes, leaks stem from parts going bad.

What are common places for a coolant leak?

There are many places where coolant leaks occur.

Leaks are possible if cracks develop in the radiator hoses or water pumps.

Other problems that could lead to leaks include broken heater hose connectors and bad seals and gaskets on water pumps.

A coolant leak occurred on a Volkswagen Beetle due to a heater hose connector breaking and a crack in the oil filter housing. 

Leaking coolant might be found if clamps become weak. The seals and gaskets on inlets and outlets are also sources of leaks.

On older vehicles, you may see an inlet and outlet. The inlet and outlet have been replaced with multiple coolant hoses on certain cars nowadays.

These smaller coolant hoses may be covered up by other components, making it more challenging to locate some leaks.

Upper radiator hoses leaking on Jeep Cherokee.
Upper radiator hoses leaking on Jeep Cherokee

Here are common coolant leak places:

  • Water pump
    • Water pump seals and gaskets
  • Radiator
    • End caps
    • Oil coolers
    • Transmission coolers
    • Radiator hoses
  • Heater core
    • Heater core inlets and outlets
    • Heater hoses
    • Heater hose connectors
  • Thermostat housing
    • Thermostat
  • Bypass hoses

How do we find coolant leaks?

The steps for figuring out where coolant is leaking will vary between internal and external leaks.

If the leak is occurring on the outside, we will start with a visual inspection. The inspection is followed by a coolant pressure test, which allows us to see leaks. 

A variety of tests may be used to locate internal leaks, such as a block test.

Can you drive a car with leaking coolant?

A vehicle that has a coolant leak will technically drive, but not for long.

You should avoid using a car that’s leaking coolant, because it will overheat. If a vehicle runs too hot, it can lead to engine damage. The head gasket could blow, and after it blows the car won’t run right.

In severe cases, driving a vehicle with an overheating engine will warp the surfaces of the motor.

Because of the damage that can occur, you don’t want to put off a coolant leak repair. If your car has a coolant leak or you’re noticing symptoms of a leak, have it checked out by an automotive expert as soon as possible.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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How to maintain your car fluids

In Vehicle Fluids, Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The holidays are starting to arrive and motorists are solidifying their vacation plans.

Has the auto repair shop you bring your car recommended maintenance during the past few months? Now is a good time to catch up on any needed work, especially if you’re planning to drive more than an hour down the road.

Because they are hidden underneath the hood and travel between components, car fluids tend to get forgotten. However, making sure they are at appropriate levels and replacing them when needed can extend the lifespan of many parts and prevent unwanted breakdowns.

Before embarking on any winter adventures, have an autoshop inspect the fluids. If they are low, it could indicate a leak. Fluids that appear dark may require flushes.

Car fluids: What do we check?

Checking fluids is one of the items on our courtesy inspection. Here’s what the technicians look at:

Brake fluid: We keep an eye out for dark brake fluid, but just because it’s dark doesn’t mean it’s time for a brake fluid exchange. This mileage-based service should be performed if there are contaminants and moisture in the braking system. Moisture can lead to corrosion buildup and the deterioration of brake parts.

Green brake fluid on a Honda Pilot.
Green brake fluid on a Honda Pilot

Coolant: Dark and discolored coolant are some problems our technicians watch for. It’s also important that the fluid isn’t acidic. The PH level can be checked using a test strip. Coolant fluid exchanges replace coolant, which eventually breaks down. Sludge, rust and scale are cleaned out, as well.

Low coolant on a Ford Focus.
Low coolant on a Ford Focus

Oil: Oil is another fluid that we want to check before sending drivers on their way. It’s important that a car is running on enough oil and that oil changes are conducted on a regular basis. Oil lubricates certain components and different parts run off oil pressure. Having too little oil can lead to engine damage. 

Transmission fluid: During courtesy inspections, our technicians make sure the transmission fluid isn’t dark or smells burnt. If a driver has noticed they are having some trouble switching gear, it can point to a transmission problem. Transmission fluid exchanges remove contaminants and put in new transmission fluid, which keeps items lubricated.

Power steering fluid: Your vehicle might be in need of a power steering fluid exchange if the fluid is dark and the steering feels loose. Many parts come in contact with power steering fluid. With regular flushes, you can protect these components and maintain smooth, firm steering.

Dark power steering fluid on a Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Dark power steering fluid on a Jeep Grand Cherokee

Windshield washer fluid: There should be enough windshield washer fluid to properly clear your windshield. A good temperature protection level is also needed, otherwise the fluid can freeze.

Other fluid maintenance tips

When cold temperatures set in, car fluids don’t flow as fast. That’s why you want them to have as little contamination as possible.

Cold weather tip: We realize the holiday season is busy for many people. Before heading out to complete errands or enjoy the festivities, make sure you give your vehicle a few minutes to run at idle before putting it in drive or reverse. This allows the oil and transmission fluid to flow.

With the way the engines are designed, it allows the oil pressure to get to where it needs to be and helps you avoid undue wear.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Coolant and refrigerant: What’s the difference?

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Cars can be complicated, and it’s easy to be confused about services and terms you hear when visiting an auto repair shop.

Sometimes, drivers may mix up fluids found in a vehicle.

Coolant and refrigerant are a couple of examples. These two fluids are used in different systems. 

An automotive professional may mention “coolant” when talking about a car’s cooling system. This fluid helps prevent the engine from overheating.

Meanwhile, refrigerant is associated with the air conditioning system and keeps you feeling cool during those hot summer days.

How the cooling system and a/c system work

The cooling and a/c systems both operate in a circle. However, the parts and process differ.

Cooling systems feature a thermostat that acts like a door and remains closed until the engine block reaches a certain temperature. Then, it slowly opens. The water pump pushes coolant through the radiator. This fluid continues to travel into the heater core and back to the engine block.

As the thermostat opens up, more coolant is able to get into the radiator and keep the engine block at an even temperature. 

On the a/c system, you have a compressor that creates pressure. Pressurized lines go into the evaporator, which has larger tubes.

When the refrigerant goes from a tight, high compression into a loose area, it gets very cold.

Like the thermostat, the expansion valve opens and closes based on temperature.

After the refrigerant makes its way through the evaporator, it runs through the condenser, which sits next by the radiator. The air conditioning condenser turns the gas into a liquid. Then, the refrigerant goes back to the compressor.

Looking for coolant and refrigerant leaks

Leaks can occasionally occur in the air conditioning and cooling systems. When they do, we start our investigation with a visual inspection.

Using ultraviolet dye to locate air conditioning leaks on an Acura TL.
Using ultraviolet dye to locate air conditioning leaks on an Acura TL

If a/c leaks are present and can’t be located, our technicians receive help from a machine and ultraviolet dye. The a/c machine enables them to confirm there is a leak through a vacuuming process. We inject dye and oil before recharging the a/c system.

The customer will then drive their car for a certain amount of time and return to the shop so we can find the dye. It’s a good idea to bring it back after a week, even if the air conditioning system is still working. However, it could take months to spot the leak.

There is no tracer dye yet for 1234yf systems. In these cases, we inject the system with nitrogen and use a sniffer that smells gas.

Coolant leaking from heater hoses on an Infiniti M37.
Coolant leaking from heater hoses on an Infiniti M37

We can follow a couple of paths to track down coolant leaks. After looking the vehicle over, we pressurize the system using a coolant pressure tester. Two or three times of what the system’s pressure would be is applied, prompting any external leaks to drip.  

In cases where a system doesn’t have any external leaks but is experiencing coolant loss, we’ll look for coolant transferring into other systems. Different tests, such as a block test or hydrocarbon test, may be performed.

Kinds of coolant and refrigerant

There are different types of coolant and refrigerant. 

Engine metal and coolant requirements differ between Asian vehicles and those made in the United States, for example. European cars also have a specific kind of coolant.

R-134a air conditioning machine.
R-134a air conditioning machine.

R-12 is the refrigerant needed on cars that were made before 1995 and 1996. After that, R-134a started to be used. R-1234yf can be found on more recent vehicles. More information about AC repair and maintenance can be found in this article we wrote.

Knowing the coolant and refrigerant your car takes could prevent damage and allow these systems to run as designed.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Lake Ridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Power steering fluid leaks: Possible leak spots

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The way vehicles operate and their different features have evolved overtime.

Advancements have led to charging ports, push start ignitions, backup cameras, collision avoidance tools, and other updates.

Even the driving process has undergone changes since the automotive industry came about. 

Power steering, for example, has made it easier for drivers as they make turns and navigate windy roads.

Various problems may impact the power steering system’s ability to function correctly. Power steering fluid leaks are one of the issues that could arise.

Where do power steering fluid leaks occur?

Power steering fluid leaks can crop up in a number of places.

The rack and pinion is among them. Leaks from this area normally won’t be noticed unless it’s brought into an autoshop. 

A technician may see dampness or moisture around the bellows boots. On rare occasions, leaks could occur where the fittings and rack and pinion meet.

Power steering cooler line assembly.
Power steering cooler line assembly

Trucks and some SUVs with towing options will have power steering coolers that might leak. These coolers can come by themselves or be built into the radiator.

Other leak areas include the power steering pump and power steering reservoir.

A lot of times on these vehicles the reservoir is set on the side. It will have a return line going to the reservoir along with the suction line that goes down to the pump. They can be made out of plastic and crack.

A Volkswagen Passat needed to have two power steering lines replaced. We found a crack on a hard line between the power steering pump and power steering reservoir. The reservoir suction line was also leaking from the soft line that connects to the reservoir.

Power steering leak symptoms

Sometimes, there are little warning signs when the power steering system is low on fluid. 

Power steering pump.
Power steering pump

You may hear a noise coming from the power steering pump. This can be a low or high pitch sound depending on the pump and system.

The Volkswagen Passat we mentioned earlier was brought in because the driver was hearing a loud noise while turning.

We will typically notice noise as the steering wheel is becoming stiff, but there may be times when the sound is heard first.

A whining sound could be heard on a Toyota FJ Cruiser when the power steering fluid was slightly low. The power steering lines had become rusted and fluid was leaking through a pinhole.

Using the right power steering fluid

When it comes time to replace your vehicle’s power steering fluid, make sure the right kind is added.

European cars, some Volkswagens and Audis will take European power steering fluid. A specific type of fluid is also available for Nissans.

Sometimes power steering fluid is just transmission fluid.

Power steering fluid used on European vehicles may be blue or yellow. Power steering fluid can also be clear or light brown. Meanwhile, transmission fluid is red.

Using the wrong power steering fluid could damage the power steering pump and the rack and pinion. It may also be more difficult to steer.

By making sure your mechanic or auto repair shop uses the right fluid, you could avoid replacing parts later on.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Transmission leaks and what can cause them

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Have you noticed gold or red fluid in your garage or on your driveway? This can be a symptom of transmission leaks.

A vehicle’s transmission sends power from the engine to the wheels. The Transmission fluid lubricates components. In addition to gold and red, it can be black or pink.

If you notice any of these colors near your car, reach out to a nearby auto repair shop. You don’t want to wait long to have it checked out.

What causes transmission leaks?

Transmission fluid can leak from different areas.

You could have transmission leaks from the front pump seal and the rear output shaft seal.

Transmission leak on a Chevy Colorado.
Transmission leak on a Chevy Colorado

The pan gasket, solenoids and electrical connectors are possible places, as well. Certain vehicles are infamous for leaking through the electrical connectors.

On a lot of cars, the transmission cooler lines run to the radiator. So, transmission fluid may drip anywhere from the radiator to the transmission.

As they get older, a problem could occur with a bracket that holds the line. Sometimes, the lines rust and start leaking.

Certain trucks and vehicles used for towing have an external cooler, which might go in front of the radiator or have its own cooling fan. Transmission fluid may drain from here too.

Other leak sources include connections on the radiator and  – due to age – the cooler inside the transmission.

Transmission fluid and coolant

It’s important to be watchful of any transmission fluid floating around in the coolant reservoir. That can be an indication that there’s a problem. The transmission will push fluid into the engine coolant in the radiator. 

During an oil change, our technicians will conduct a courtesy inspection. As a part of this process, they check the fluids. The technicians aren’t just confirming the fluid levels – they’re also looking for problems like this.

Under extreme conditions, the transmission may push so much fluid into the coolant that it could appear pink.

Another possible problem that we would like to avoid is the engine coolant going back into the transmission. It’s much cheaper to replace the radiator than the transmission.

Transmission services and replacement

Certain components can be changed when transmission leaks are present.

If the problem is connected with transmission cooler lines or the cooler, new ones may be installed.

Different seals – the tailshaft seals, output shaft seals, and transmission pan seals – and o-rings are also replaceable. The type of seals on a vehicle depend on whether it’s four-wheel or front-wheel drive.

Transmission for Mustang.
Transmission replacement on Mustang

Depending on the location of the leak, a new transmission may be needed. For example, a Chevy Colorado we worked on a few months ago needed a new transmission. We believe the front pump seal behind the torque converter busted. We are capable of putting in new front pump seals, but sometimes it isn’t worth it.

You may also notice certain symptoms if you have a bad transmission, such as trouble switching gears.

A great way to reduce any transmission problems is through regular transmission fluid exchanges. This mileage-based service cleans out contaminants that buildup in the fluid overtime and helps prevent parts from breaking down prematurely.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Lake Ridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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The importance of transfer case fluid exchanges

In Vehicle Fluids, Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Cars today require various maintenance items once they hit a certain mileage. This can range from oil changes to flushes and the replacement of parts. 

Transfer case fluid exchanges are one of the services that tend to be overlooked. 

They aren’t needed on all cars, only those that have a transfer case. You normally see transfer cases on four-wheel drive vehicles.

Why transfer case fluid exchanges are needed

Transfer case fluid acts as a lubricant for gears, bearings and other parts. Overtime, this fluid can break down – due to heat, contaminants and moisture – and should be replaced. 

Transfer case fluid exchanges offer multiple benefits. They increase the longevity of the transfer case, which links the transmission and front axle. This type of maintenance also ensures that the component continues operating the way it should.

A transfer case that was removed from a Dodge Charger.
Transfer case from a Dodge Charger

If motorists choose not to have the flush performed or put it off too long, they could face costly repairs down the road. Worn out transfer case fluid can cause corrosion to build up and the gears to experience wear.

When to get a transfer case fluid flush

With other mileage-based services, like brake fluid exchanges and power steering fluid exchanges, you can check the fluid and see if it’s dark. This isn’t the case with transfer case fluid exchanges.

There is no way to tell if the transfer case fluid needs to be changed. So, we normally go based on mileage.

How often your vehicle needs a transfer case fluid exchange depends on the type of car you have, its purpose, and what the manufacturer suggests. This information should be found in your owner’s manual.

We recommend conducting the service every 30,000 miles. Some makes and models can go longer without a transfer case fluid exchange. A lot of manufacturers recommend them at 100,000 or 120,000 miles. Meanwhile, trucks that are used for towing may need them more often.

There aren’t any signs that indicate this maintenance is needed. Once the transfer case starts making noise, it means that something must be replaced or repaired. In addition to conducting transfer case fluid flushes, we are able to replace transfer cases.

How we perform this service

Before beginning a transfer case fluid exchange, we make sure there aren’t any leaks. When having work done on your vehicle – whether it’s transfer case maintenance or just a state inspection – it’s also a good idea to make sure the seals are good.

After confirming there aren’t any problems, we remove the old transfer case fluid and any impurities that have accumulated using our driveline service center machine. 

Then, our Woodbridge mechanics add BG Syncro Shift II into the system. This product is a full synthetic gear lubricant that can be used for transfer cases, manual transmissions and trans-axles. It protects components from wearing out and offers great shear resistance. 

The right type of fluid must be used when this service is being performed. Not all vehicles have the same needs.

For example, we used the syncro shift on the rear differential of a Highlander, because that’s what it called for. Then we used gear oil for the transfer case. Other vehicles require the exact opposite.

So, it’s important to be careful and have the work completed by an expert.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Coolant leaking from Volkswagen Beetle

In Automotive Diagnostics, Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

This is the latest chronicle on the most recent car problem I had with my Volkswagen Beetle. I hope that my experience helps you address any issues you face.

I was taking my exit off I-95 South when I noticed what sounded like a rattling noise – and then turned into a grinding noise – as I stepped on the gas. 

I reached out to the General Manager at HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire, thinking it was some sort of belt issue. 

However, as I spoke with him, I began to see other problems. Smoke was emitting from the front of my vehicle and I heard a loud beeping noise. That’s when I saw the engine temperature light and low oil pressure icons appear on the dashboard. This information was shared with the General Manager, who recommended I check my oil level.

The engine temperature warning light, which appeared on the dashboard of a Volkswagen.
Engine temperature warning light

I safely arrived home, where my fiance and I confirmed that there was oil in the system but saw that the coolant reservoir appeared empty. When he heard this, the General Manager suggested we add refrigerant to see if it had a fast leak. If it did, I would need to have the vehicle towed to their Woodbridge auto repair shop. Coolant was added and, sure enough, it leaked out immediately.

Why is coolant leaking from my car?

My Volkswagen Beetle was towed to HomeTowne Auto Repair the next morning. 

When it was brought into the shop, they found that one of the heater hose connectors had broken.

A broken heater hose connector.
Broken heater hose connector

What appeared to be smoke was actually steam. This occurred because the coolant was leaking directly onto the hot exhaust, which was burning it.

After replacing the connectors, one of the technicians topped the system off with coolant. However, when he turned the vehicle on coolant once again poured out.

Why was coolant leaking out of my vehicle?

Through a deeper investigation of the problem, they found that there was a crack in the oil filter housing. 

A crack that was found in a Volkswagen's oil filter housing.
Crack in oil filter housing

After replacing this part, a coolant system flush was performed to ensure that there weren’t any air pockets. My Volkswagen was then taken on a test drive to confirm that no other leaks were present.

A Volkswagen Beetle receiving a coolant fluid exchange.

Other possible causes behind coolant leaks

Coolant leaks are usually a matter of time and age. Rust, corrosion and impact are factors, as well.

They can be the result of many different components going bad. These include the water pump, radiator, heater core, thermostat, heater hoses, and radiator hoses. You also have multiple bypass hoses, depending on the car.

This article we wrote talks about some signs that you have a bad water pump.

Some high performance vehicles have two water pumps – a main one that’s belt or chain driven and there’s usually one that’s electric which supplements the cooling system. For hybrids, there’s a completely separate cooling system for the hybrid battery. Your hybrid vehicles will have their own water pump, hoses and thermostat.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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What we do during an oil change

In Brakes, Oil Change, Tires & Wheels, Vehicle Fluids, Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Oil changes are a form of maintenance that most drivers are familiar with.

This service is necessary for your vehicle to run properly. Oil is needed to lubricate many components and some parts feature oil pressure sensors. 

Regular oil changes, which are suggested every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, prevent engine damage from occurring down the road. You can read more about why they are important in this blog post we wrote.

During this service, the oil and oil filter are replaced. HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire takes it a few steps further by providing additional services.

What an oil change looks like at HomeTowne Auto Repair

While completing an oil change, we always use seat covers, floor mats, and steering wheel covers to protect the vehicle.

In addition to replacing the oil and oil filter, our technicians perform a courtesy inspection. This includes several safety checks, such as testing the battery. They also examine the air filters and look over the belts and pulleys. 

The fluids are checked, as well. We look at the windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.

Not all of the fluids have a warning light when they’re low and you may not know until something happens. Being low on oil or coolant might cause an alert. That isn’t the case with power steering fluid and transmission fluid.

Measuring the brake pad depth is another part of the process. To pass the Virginia state inspection, they must be at least 2/32 of an inch. We start suggesting replacing the brakes when they reach 3/32 or 4/32 of an inch, but some manufacturers recommend them sooner.

The tires are also measured and rotated, which helps them last longer.

To confirm there isn’t any play or damage, the steering and suspension are inspected. Parts can become loose or go bad overtime. If they aren’t replaced early on, they could lead to more expensive repairs in the future.

Additionally, our technicians make sure the lights are working properly.

The courtesy check and tire rotations are services provided at no additional charge.

We believe in maintaining your car before it breaks down. If we can catch problems early, then we can potentially save people money.

Digital inspections

Any observations our technicians make while performing an oil change or courtesy inspection are noted in digital inspections.

Through digital inspections, we are able to share photos, videos and information about the health of your vehicle. This includes details about what’s looking good, repairs that need to be made, and services we recommend.

These reports can be sent via text or email, allowing you to receive an update wherever you are.

Is your vehicle due for an oil change? You can schedule one at HomeTowne Auto Repair by calling (703) 594-4646.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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The importance of addressing oil leaks

In Vehicle Fluids by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Oil leaks are nothing to brush off.

When you’re running on too little oil, damage can eventually occur to the engine and other parts. So, it’s important to have this problem addressed as soon as possible.

A 2005 Dodge Caravan was brought in because it was leaking oil. In order to safely get it to HomeTowne Auto Repair, the driver needed to add a quart or two of oil. There was a trail of fluid seen in the parking lot.

While working on the vehicle, we found that there was a major oil leak behind the timing cover, which was cracked. Because some bolts were missing, the technician needed to replace the timing cover and all related hardware. New seals, a new water pump, and a new timing belt were installed, as well.

Fluid leaking from your vehicle can be a warning sign that there’s a problem. You can figure out what’s leaking by looking at the color and location.

How to tell if you have an oil leak

There are a couple of different ways to tell if your vehicle is leaking oil.

If you check your oil and notice that it’s low, you may have a leak. This could also indicate an oil consumption issue.

The other thing you can do is check underneath the vehicle after it’s been sitting for a while. You should see fresh drips below the splash shields. 

Oil is typically yellow, brown or black.

What causes an oil leak? 

There are a number of possible causes behind an oil leak.

This problem can occur if a gasket or seal is bad. Various parts could also need to be replaced. These components include crank seals, cam seals and oil cooler seals. The valve cover is the most common culprit.

Vehicles that use turbochargers have inlet and outlet tube seals that can cause a leak.

Drivers who recently had an oil change performed should bring their car back to the repair shop, because it may not have been done correctly.

How oil leaks can impact other components

Oil leaks can have a negative effect on various parts, including the timing belt.

They may cause a problem with the timing belt if they are coming from the valve covers, front camshaft seals, sometimes the crankshaft seals, and even a balance shaft or oil pump shaft seal.

If that oil leaks on the timing belt, it can weaken the belt and cause it to break. This may lead to engine damage. 

Oil leaks can also impact the serpentine belt, which is the drive belt that wraps around the engine accessories.

If the front crankshaft seal or another part of the top of the engine is leaking onto the belt, then the belt has a greater chance of slipping. That means your vehicle may not charge correctly, and the water pump may not turn properly if it’s driven by the serpentine belt.

The belt could also start to break or fray, preventing you from being able to drive your car.

If an oil leak is dripping on the exhaust you are more likely to see smoke. If there’s a significant drip – especially near the catalytic converter – the vehicle could catch on fire … which is bad.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.