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What drive belt problems fail the Virginia State Inspection?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The condition of one part can determine whether certain systems function.

Drive belts are connected to components in the air conditioning system, the power steering system, the cooling system, and other areas. When something is wrong with the belt, those items could be impacted.

We check in on the drive belts whenever we’re working on a vehicle or conducting a Virginia State Inspection.

What does a drive belt do?

Drive belts help “drive” a few parts in the engine. Also called “serpentine belts”, you can find these belts around a vehicle’s alternator and water pump. 

In certain cases, drive belts also run the air conditioning compressor and power steering pump.

There are different kinds of drive belts, such as stretch belts, v belts, and dual drive belts.

Some vehicles have multiple drive belts. Older vehicles used to have up to 3, with each one running an accessory. 

The benefit to a three-belt system is that if your a/c compressor belt broke, you still have your alternator and power steering. However, this type of setup is incredibly inefficient.

If a serpentine belt breaks on today’s vehicles, you lose everything.

Drive belt wear on Land Rover.
Drive belt wear on Land Rover

What drive belt problems fail the state inspection in Virginia?

When it comes to drive belts, inspectors want to make sure they are in good working order.

A vehicle will fail the Virginia State Inspection if the belt is missing. Belts that are worn or lack good tension are other issues we look for.

What happens when a drive belt goes bad?

Over time, drive belts experience wear. Belts can develop cracks, or their grooves can morph from “v’s” to “u’s”.

Discolored belts are another issue we’ve seen and are caused by friction and heat.

If there’s something wrong with idler pulleys or drive belt tensioners, a belt could become loose.

Sometimes, drive belts slip off or break as a result of oil leaks or coolant leaks. When a drive belt breaks, whatever accessory it drives, no longer works.

Drive belt cut on Mazda CX-9.
Drive belt cut on Mazda CX-9

How to know if a drive belt needs replacing?

Automotive professionals can spot drive belt problems when looking over your vehicle. If you take your car to an auto repair shop that performs courtesy inspections, a technician should notice belt wear or other issues.

Belts, belt tensioners and idler pulleys are some of the parts we look over during courtesy checks, which are included in our oil changes. In addition to worn belts, we’ve seen belts coming off tensioners when looking over vehicles.

Drivers may hear a squeaking noise when the drive belt is wearing out.

Drive belt vs timing belt

A vehicle will be equipped with a drive belt and a timing belt or chain.

Timing belts are connected to the camshafts and crankshafts to make sure that the engine stays in time.

The timing belt or chain are on what we call “sprockets”. They have little teeth on them and fit together.

Meanwhile, the drive belt is operating the accessories to the vehicle. 

A drive belt is going to be on the outside of the engine, the outside of the timing cover. It’s going to run the power steering pump, your air conditioning compressor – if they’re not electric – and the water pump. And it’s all going to be driven off the crankshaft pulley or harmonic balancer.

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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Do I need a new rack and pinion?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Wherever your travels lead, it’s important that your car’s steering capabilities are working as designed.

Problems with different parts can impact how this system operates.

A bad rack and pinion, for example, could cause some concerning symptoms and affect the safety of a vehicle.

What is a rack and pinion?

The rack and pinion is a part of a car’s steering system. It attaches to the steering knuckles. Steering knuckles are responsible for turning a steering wheel.

How can you tell when the rack and pinion is going bad?

Steering problems can be one indicator that something is wrong with the rack and pinion. 

The steering wheel may feel stiff if there’s a power steering fluid leak.

Leaks could result in dampness, moisture or fluid at the bellows boots. You can find bellows boots on the rack and pinion’s end seals.

Typically, technicians will come across power steering fluid leaks when working on a vehicle. However, a driver might notice a little fluid underneath the car.

Where can power steering fluid leaks occur?

Power steering fluid can leak in several areas, such as:

  • Rack and pinion fittings
  • Power steering coolers
  • Bellows boots
  • Power steering reservoir
  • End seals
  • Power steering pump

Every once in a while, leaks will develop at the rack and pinion fittings. 

The end seals experience constant pressure and are more likely to fail. Tears can also happen on the bellows boots that help protect them.

A Chevrolet Camaro we worked on had a torn bellows boot and leaking rack and pinion. Both problems caused the car to fail the Virginia Safety Inspection.

The technician recommended a new rack, power steering fluid exchange and wheel alignment.

What are other rack problems?

Additional rack and pinion problems are also possible. For example, the ends could crack or break.

Inspecting the steering and suspension is included in our courtesy check.

Our technicians want to make sure components in these systems aren’t worn or broken, and don’t have any play.

Some of the items that could wear out are the mounting bushings. These bushings connect the rack and pinion and subframe.

A loose steering wheel may indicate that the rack and pinion is moving.

How can I take care of my rack and pinion?

Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your rack and pinion.

We recommend power steering fluid exchanges every 30,000 miles, depending on the vehicle. 

It also helps to go to a shop that looks over your vehicle during each visit. That way, you know you aren’t missing anything.

Drivers can face a variety of steering problems. You should reach out to an automotive professional if your steering wheel feels loose or stiff, or it seems to be shaking.

Any alerts and other driveability concerns are also worth looking into.

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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How to save money on auto repair

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

A lot of people are looking for ways to save money. 

Certain bills are unavoidable, but in many areas cost-saving measures can be applied.

There are even money saving options when it comes to auto repair. By maintaining your vehicle, you can steer clear of potential expenses.

Saving money through car maintenance

Fluid maintenance

We suggest changing many car fluids – including brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid – every 30,000 miles. 

These mileage-based services take care of various systems. Coolant fluid exchanges protect the cooling system, which maintains the engine’s operating temperature. Meanwhile, servicing your transmission extends the life of your transmission. 

Contaminated coolant on a Lincoln MKS.
Contaminated coolant on a Lincoln MKS

Oil changes

Oil changes should be performed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and can help prevent engine damage.

Not only is it important to replace the oil on a regular basis, but the correct type of oil or synthetic oil is needed. This extends the lifespan of items and could possibly improve your gas mileage.

Suspension system

Your suspension should be checked at every oil change. Shocks and struts have a shelf life. They typically last around 75,000 to 100,000 miles (although this can depend on the vehicle). You will want to start checking them when the mileage reaches 50,000 to 60,000.

When it comes to car maintenance, it’s a good idea to think ahead. If getting new tires and shocks and struts are in your near future, you should replace the shocks and struts just before or right after the tires are installed.

Putting new tires on old shocks and struts can lead to feathering, cupping, or a tire-related symptom.

Tires and tire maintenance

A few services fall under tire maintenance. We recommend tire balances and wheel alignments every 15,000 miles or once a year. Regular tire rotations and checking the tire pressure can also help the tires last longer.

Tire rebates are another way you could save money. If you replace your tires and get your receipt, you can fill out the rebate online and they’ll send you a check or card.

For example, HomeTowne is a Michelin Tire dealer. If you get the Michelin credit card, you might get 6 months same as cash and sometimes the rebates double.

Tire balancing on a Jeep Patriot.
Tire balancing on a Jeep Patriot

Using high quality parts

Many drivers may be eyeing those cheaper car parts. However, if it’s a big or complicated job, you might want to pay for the better components. Not having a good part could cost you more because it may worsen the damage. 

Trying to save money by purchasing parts online can actually be detrimental in the long run.

Other ways to save money

Cutting down on costs doesn’t end with car maintenance.

You could also save money as you’re picking up the vehicle.

When you’re at your auto repair shop and you have your estimate, see if they have any specials, discounts or manufacturer rebates.

You never know unless you ask.

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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Belt replacement: Why is it important?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Drive belt wear is a normal part of vehicle use.

Our technicians look for belt problems during their courtesy checks.

Eventually, belts may develop cracks or become loose. Leaks are another issue we want to keep an eye out for and address.

If your car has some sort of leak, the fluid can get onto the belt and cause damage. This occurred on a BMW 535xi.

Broken drive belt on BMW 535xi

On the BMW, an oil leak led to the drive belt breaking.

When we pulled the crank pulley, we found that the belt was sucked up into the timing case and destroyed the front crank seal. 

Drive belt in a BMW timing case.
Drive belt in a BMW timing case

There was an excessive amount of belt material in the timing case. The Master Technician who was working on the car recommended replacing the timing chains, guides and sprockets. We also needed to pull the oil pan to check the oil pickup and oil pump.

Additionally, the belt was wrapped so tightly in the a/c compressor that it wasn’t going to come out. So, we would have to install a new compressor, as well.

A broken drive belt isn’t the only possible result of leaks. They can cause the serpentine belt to slip, too. This could keep the parts it surrounds from running properly.

Why you shouldn’t put off belt replacement

The drive belt getting sucked up into the engine when it breaks is a common problem on certain BMW models.

BMW drivers should listen to their engine noise. Any kind of belt chirp or humming noise from the front end of the engine could indicate that bearings are going bad.

It’s a good idea to resolve oil leaks early on. Drive belts are just one component that leaks can impact.

If an auto repair shop tells you that fluid is dripping on your vehicle’s drive belt or the belt is worn, don’t wait to have it replaced.

Belt material sucked into a BMW engine.
Belt material sucked into a BMW engine

We recommend changing timing belts and serpentine belts if they are 10 years old or the vehicle has hit 100,000 miles.

Belt replacement may not seem like a major concern, but this service can help you avoid expensive consequences.

For the BMW 535xi, it could have saved the driver thousands of dollars in repairs.

Taking your car to a reliable auto repair shop

You can avoid a lot of unexpected issues by taking your car to a  trustworthy and dependable auto repair shop.

Finding a place that looks over different items and gives you an update on the vehicle’s health can help you become aware of and plan for future maintenance needs.

It’s important to work with automotive technicians who know what they’re doing and won’t cut corners. During belt replacement, for example, sometimes related parts need to be changed with it. 

Using high quality components that are going to last a while is vital, too. Not only does this ensure your safety but it prevents additional repairs.

You should also beware of shops that don’t charge for diagnostic testing. Those are typically places that will throw parts at a car and won’t take the time to look into the problem.

A shop charging diagnostic fees is a good thing because they will remove the belt and check the pulleys to make sure there isn’t an underlying cause.

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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Driveline service: How to take care of your vehicle

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

Whether you’re backing up or speeding ahead, your vehicle’s driveline is helping you get to your destination.

Every once in a while, driveline service is needed to keep you and your car on the road.

What is the driveline?

The driveline is responsible for moving a car forward or backward. How does it work? Well, there are different setups among vehicles.

Rear-wheel drive transmission.
Rear-wheel drive transmission

If you have a rear-wheel drive, the engine sends power to the transmission. The transmission gives the rotation to the driveshaft, which goes back to the rear differential. This causes the wheels to spin in whichever direction.

For front-wheel drive cars, power is transferred from the engine to the transmission and spins the axles.

On rear-wheel drive vehicles with all-wheel drive capabilities, to send the power or rotation to the front wheels, it needs to go through a transfer case and another drive shaft.

Front-wheel drive cars with all-wheel drive capabilities have a similar concept. Power goes from the engine to the transmission. The transfer case is either built into the transmission to go to the rear wheels or the transfer case is a separate unit that goes to the rear wheels.

Driveline problems we look for

We don’t look for one particular driveline problem when working on vehicles.

Front-wheel drive transmission.
Front-wheel drive transmission

Usually when a customer mentions a symptom, we can isolate it to a certain driveline component. Here are some examples:

Transmission: When it comes to the transmission, you could have slipping, shuddering, or hard shifts. Problems with switching gears and a grinding noise can be signs of a bad transmission.

Transfer case: If power isn’t getting to the rear drive shaft or front drive shaft, there may be a problem with the transfer case. Drivers might also notice a vibration or feel like their car is shaking when this part is bad.

Rear differentials and front differentials: The first thing you’re going to notice before it goes bad is noise, because those are rotating elements. You have bearings and gears that all flow together and are lubricated by fluid.

Driveline service and signs that it’s needed

Aside from a catastrophic failure, one of the most common driveline problems that drivers will notice is a roaring noise. It may sound like the tires are loud.

Vibration is another possible symptom. When driving at a certain speed and throttle position (or load), it might feel like you’re driving over a rumble strip.

Front differential for a four-wheel drive truck.
Front differential for a four-wheel drive truck

To ensure that the driveline continues working as designed, make sure that it receives needed maintenance overtime. You can take care of your driveline by regularly exchanging fluids on the transmission, transfer case and differentials. Sometimes, u joints may be serviced.

Our shop offers driveline service. This includes engine repairs, engine replacement, external transmission repairs, transmission replacement, and differential replacement. We also replace u joints, carrier bearings, and axle bearings. 

Transmission fluid exchanges, transfer case fluid exchanges, and differential fluid exchanges are some maintenance services our technicians perform.

So, if you think something is wrong with your driveline or it’s been a while since these components have been serviced, feel free to reach out to us.

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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Winter car problems that can occur

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The frigid temperatures and inclement weather that winter brings can make severe blows to your vehicle.

Tire pressure tends to drop with drastic decreases in temperature. Icy roads might impact your suspension and wheel alignment. Weak parts that are on their final stretch of life could break.

If an item stops working at the wrong time, it could affect your safety or result in an inoperable car.

Car parts and wintertime

Here are some car parts that may be affected by the colder months (more information about winter car problems can be found below):

  • Batteries
  • Bearings
  • Belts
  • Electrical parts
  • Fluids
  • Seals
  • Windshield wipers
  • Windshield wiper motors

Battery: Many people have heard that weak batteries will fail during this time of the year. While that is true, more fail in extreme heat than during the colder months. It’s just more inconvenient when it’s cold outside and your car won’t turn on.

Bearings and seals: When it’s warm, bad bearings and seals may still work OK. During the winter, things can contract a bit and you might start noticing more problems. Leaks could occur because the lower temperatures add extra pressure to seals and they aren’t able to do their job.

Cracking drive belt on a Acura RSX.
Cracking drive belt on a Acura RSX

Belts: Belts wear out, crack, and become glazed from daily use. If there’s something wrong with a belt, you may hear it chirp more than it normally would.

Electrical components: Wintertime sometimes has an effect on electrical parts, too. This includes window motors, four-wheel drive actuators, or anything that has to do with electrical contacts. The cold weather will finish off any mediocre parts.

Brake fluid exchange on a Chevy Silverado.
Brake fluid exchange on a Chevy Silverado

Fluids: You will want to make sure that contaminants haven’t collected in your vehicle fluids (i.e brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), which don’t flow as quickly during winter. Low fluid levels are another problem we keep an eye out for.

Windshield wipers for a Genesis G70.
Windshield wipers for a Genesis G70

Windshield wipers and wiper motors: When you’re driving through snow and ice, it forces the windshield wipers and windshield wiper motors to work harder. Windshield wiper blades can tear and the motor could stop working.

Other problems: Sand and salt that’s spread on the roads may cause a few problems, including corrosion buildup. These materials can also lead to surface rust on the exhaust as well as steering and suspension components. They could dry out boots and make rubber parts brittle, too. A lot of nicer cars have panels that protect parts of the vehicle. It’s a good idea to keep up with the panels, which can prevent corrosion from collecting underneath.

Preventing winter car problems

We aren’t able to predict all winter car problems we will experience. However, being aware of issues that can arise and any preventative maintenance your car needs could help you avoid unexpected setbacks. 

Our technicians fill out a Digital Vehicle Inspection on the vehicles they work on. If your auto repair shop looks over your vehicle during oil changes, pay attention to any recommendations they make.

Some maintenance items don’t need to be completed right away, but knowing about them allows you to plan your budget and future appointments you need to make.

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dale City, 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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Is your windshield winter ready?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The colder months are steadily approaching Northern Virginia. 

As the leaves and outside temperatures begin to fall, make sure to set aside time to prepare your vehicle.

Just having an automotive professional look it over can make you aware of issues and provide you with peace of mind.

If your car will be due for an oil change or other maintenance soon, ask if a technician can check out the battery, tires, brakes, fluids and belts too.

It’s also a good idea to check out the windshield. Here are some ways you can confirm that it’s winter ready.

Windshield problems

When preparing your vehicle for wintertime, you will want to look for any windshield problems:

Cracks in the windshield: Are there any cracks obscuring your vision? Not only can they be a nuisance, windshield cracks could get bigger overtime. A car won’t pass the Virginia State Inspection if there is a crack that goes across the windshield or a star crack is larger than 1 and a half inches around. Try reaching out to your insurance company and see if they offer windshield coverage.

Windshield washer fluid reservoir leaking on a Honda CR-Z.
Windshield washer fluid reservoir leaking on a Honda CR-Z

Low windshield washer fluid: Before heading into the holidays, make sure your vehicle has plenty of windshield washer fluid to wash away any salt or dirt that hits your windshield. If you notice that you’re topping off the fluid frequently, the reservoir might be leaking.

Sprayers not working: Sometimes, you have enough windshield washer fluid but the sprayers aren’t working. This problem can be caused by broken lines, clogged and broken nozzles, and a bad windshield washer pump.

Torn windshield wipers: During the winter, Northern Virginia may receive a fair amount of rain and the occasional snowfall. Windshield wiper blades should be inspected regularly for any tearing. Their lifespan depends on driving conditions and behaviors. If your windshield wipers aren’t clearing the windshield, have them replaced.

Toyota Highlander worn windshield wiper blade.
Worn windshield wiper blade on a Toyota Highlander

Malfunctioning defroster: For your vehicle to be winter ready, it’s important that the defroster is able to clear out the windshield and windows properly, especially if we see any ice. If the defroster doesn’t seem to be doing its job, there could be a problem with the a/c system.

Other ways to get your car winter ready

Sometimes, windshield components malfunction and need to be checked out or replaced. However, there are also a few day-to-day tips that can help you this winter.

On top of confirming that your car has enough washer fluid and all windshield components are functioning, make sure the fluid offers a good temperature protection level. If it doesn’t, it could freeze in the reservoir and the water pump.

Helpful tip: Using a product like RainX on your windshield can help improve your visibility while it’s raining and snowing. Usually, snow and ice will slide right off when vehicles that have this coating.

Cleaning the inside of the windshield once a month is another way you can continue to see well. This prevents it from fogging up.

If you do need to replace your windshield due to cracks, see if your vehicle requires an Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) reset.

Whatever the winter has in store, maintaining a clear windshield will help you navigate the roads safely.

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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HomeTowne Auto Repair employees learn about BG products

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The HomeTowne Auto Repair team has become more knowledgeable about a few BG products and how they work.

A couple of BG representatives led a training at our Woodbridge auto repair shop on Thursday morning.

The BG products discussed were:

  • BG 44K
  • BG MOA
  • BG Frigi Clean
  • BG Frigi Fresh

Demonstrations on BG products provided

BG 44K

Fuel system cleaners was one of the topics covered.

Our Apprentice Technicians, Master Technicians, Service Advisors and Service Manager learned about detergents in fuel and those that can be added between services, such as BG 44K. The representatives shared and demonstrated the strengths of different cleaners, as well.

BG 44K removes contaminants that collect on fuel system parts, such as fuel injectors and combustion chambers. It may improve how the engine runs and reduce carbon buildup-related problems.

The cleaner can be added between fuel induction services.

BG MOA

Technicians and Service Advisors learning about oil and BG MOA.

Oil additives and the differences between types of oil – conventional, synthetic blends, and full synthetic – were also discussed.

The benefits of BG MOA were shown using a bearing grinder.

This product helps protect the engine and extend its lifespan. It can prevent sludge from accumulating and increase a vehicle’s fuel economy.

BG MOA is added at oil changes.

BG Frigi Clean and BG Frigi Fresh

The training concluded with the HVAC cleaning system. Participants were educated on BG Frigi Clean and BG Frigi Fresh and learned the correct way to add them.

BG Frigi Fresh gets rid of mold and bacteria that build up overtime, resulting in musty smells.

This disinfectant may be sprayed on the cabin air filter and through the vents once a year or during seasonal changes, like winter to spring or summer to fall.

Through the training, the BG representatives sought to familiarize the front counter personnel and technicians with the products and processes.

“It’s a great way to see what [BG] MOA actually does as well as the [BG] 44K,” Ed Olbon explained.

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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Fuel systems: How to take care of them and problems we look for

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Do you smell gas when driving or have you seen fuel around your car? Is your vehicle running rough? These symptoms may be hinting at a fuel system problem.

If these indicators are coupled with the check engine light turning on, it’s worth it to have an automotive expert check it out.

Potential problems

Several issues can develop within your fuel system overtime.

Malfunctioning fuel injectors

Fuel injectors are responsible for providing fuel to engine cylinders. Resolving a fuel system problem may mean replacing these components. When you have bad fuel injectors, you might have trouble starting your car, experience a rough idle, or notice a rise in fuel usage.

Problem with EVAP lines

Issues can also occur with EVAP lines. We worked on a bus that was brought in because its check engine light turned on. 

An EVAP code appeared. While we were performing a smoke test on the system, EVAP smoke came from the top of the fuel tank. We dropped the fuel tank and discovered a hole in one of the EVAP lines.

A hole in an EVAP line.
A hole in an EVAP line

Blocked fuel filter

Dirt and other contaminants are kept out of the fuel system, thanks to help from the fuel filter. Fuel filter replacement may be needed, as this part can get clogged.

Bad fuel pump:

The fuel pump could go bad, preventing fuel from coming out of the fuel tank. Corrosion build is possible, resulting in a fuel leak. Some indicators of a bad fuel pump include a decrease in power and misfires.

Other sources of fuel system problems include bad transfer pumps and failing high pressure fuel pumps.

Fuel systems and the Virginia State Inspection

For a vehicle to pass the Virginia Safety Inspection, the fuel system needs to be in good working order.

Our inspectors confirm that there aren’t any audible exhaust leaks. This can be indicated by cracks that are forming and fluid on the pipes or joints.

Leaking tailpipe on a Mazda.
Leaking tailpipe on a Mazda

Broken and insecure parts are other problems they check for when conducting the Virginia State Inspection. These components include joints, mufflers, exhaust manifolds, flex pipes, tailpipes, catalytic converters, and O2 sensors.

The other week, a Ford Ranger failed the inspection because the tailpipe and muffler needed to be replaced. It also had a broken hanger.

Broken hanger on a Ford Ranger.
Broken hanger on a Ford Ranger

Maintaining your vehicle’s fuel system

Taking care of fuel systems can keep them running correctly. One way you can maintain it is with fuel induction services, which remove carbon that has built up. 

This service improves a vehicle’s fuel efficiency, reduces emissions released through the tailpipe, and positively impacts engine power.

Fuel induction services should be conducted every 30,000 miles and GDI induction services are suggested every 15,000 miles. The frequency depends on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

BG 44K can be used between fuel induction services. This product cleans parts, such as combustion chambers and fuel injectors.

If a car sits for a really long time, there are special stabilizers you can put in your fuel to make sure it doesn’t go bad.

Another way to avoid problems with fuel systems is keeping your car clean. This may seem obvious, but it’s important to get rid of any corrosion that’s building up on the bottom. If left unaddressed, it can eat through your fuel lines.

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