There are many reasons why a car air conditioning isn’t working correctly.
They can range from a leak to needing a new part.
A car being low on Freon, also known as refrigerant, is an indicator that there’s a leak.
Leaks can occur on rubber lines or fittings, because they undergo extreme temperature changes.
The rubber gaskets, which expand and contract, can become brittle overtime.
You should only need to recharge your car A/C if there’s a leak.
HomeTowne Auto Repair is able to recharge a car air conditioning, and we do offer air conditioning repair.
One part that may need to be replaced is the air conditioning condenser.
We installed a new one on a 2005 Acura after a customer noticed the air conditioning wasn’t as cool.
Air conditioning condenser
When you turn on the air conditioning, Freon travels — as a gas — from the air conditioning compressor to the air conditioning condenser.
The air conditioning fan blows air over the condenser, cooling the Freon and causing it to turn into a liquid.
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.
I tried a few more times. It wouldn’t start, and all I heard was silence and — several seconds later — a “click … click … click.”
All of the dashboard lights did come on.
Dashboard Lights
Since my battery had been replaced within the past few years, and I hadn’t left any lights on or electronics plugged in, I ruled out the battery. I called HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire and spoke with them about the issue.
The General Manager offered to drive down to the gas station, which is in Fredericksburg, and help. A friend of mine who lives closer came by and jumped my car.
After she arrived, we attempted to jump start my car multiple times and were unsuccessful.
I spoke to the General Manager again who gave some suggestions. He asked me to try jump starting my car again. The first attempt — nothing. The second time — nothing. The third — my car came back to life.
Jump Starting Car
I brought my car by HomeTowne Auto Repair and learned that I needed a new starter, which is responsible for starting the engine.
The starter has a gear — called a bindix — that starts the flywheel by shooting out and spinning quickly.
Sometimes, a starter will stop working without showing any symptoms.
If you’re in the same boat I was in, your best bet is to keep trying to jump start your car and check the battery.
If you turn it over three or four times, your starter may have a flat spot and get started one time. After that, it shouldn’t be trusted.
If it still won’t start after you’ve tried jumping it, you will probably need to have it towed to a mechanic.
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.
Parts of a vehicle heat up as it’s driven. Certain components help cool them off.
One of our technicians replaced the intercooler of a 2015 Audi A4 last month.
Audi A4
What does the intercooler do?
Intercoolers are heat exchanging devices that are found on top or in front of the engine of supercharged or turbocharged cars.
The turbo takes pressure from the exhaust. It spools up and sends more air into the air intake, creating more power — also known as “boost”. More power equals more heat.
A heat exchanger is needed to lower the intake air temperatures, which can prevent damage to the engine.
Air to water intercoolers are used on drag racing cars. Those using them will add ice to the intercooler, so the intake air temperature becomes even cooler.
Our work on the Audi A4
The Audi was brought in when the check engine turned on. It had a running rich code.
The technician disconnected the intake tube from the throttle body. He performed a smoke test and smoke started pouring out of the intercooler.
Some type of impact caused the air leak. When the air was passing through, it sucked in unmetered air, causing it to run rich.
These details — even the ones that seem irrelevant — can help them address the issue and get you back on the road sooner.
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.
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.
This is just one of the experiences we’ve had working on a used car.
Our customer had just bought a 2013 Jeep Wrangler off a used car lot at a dealership. It had cool lights and just looked nice, beefy and fun to drive.
They brought it to us after they started hearing a growling noise when driving. After checking out the vehicle, the technician found out that it was the rear differential. After a couple of other checks, we decided it was time to replace it.
How we addressed problems on the Jeep Wrangler
We went with a JASPER remanufactured unit. While we were taking the old rear differential apart and getting ready to install the new one, we learned that the axles had been changed to off road axles that had screw-in studs we needed to find. The old rear differential also had a gear ratio that was different from the Jeep’s original ratio and the front differential ratio.
The new rear differential came in and was installed. During the test drive, the transmission would go into limp mode — which basically means that it won’t shift gears.
We spoke to the customer about this issue and they told us, “Oh yeah, it happened to us a few times after we got it. We’ve only had it two weeks.”
As we were doing more testing, we received codes for a speed sensor problem. Speed sensors are located inside the transmission on top of the valve body. Through other testing, we found the transmission control module was not communicating correctly.
A transmission control module came in and was programmed. We experienced the same problem while test driving, but now we had good communication.
Why you should get a used car checked
To make a long story short, we also needed to replace the transmission and reprogram the PCM back to the correct programming. This time, when we took it for a test drive, everything worked great — just like it’s supposed to.
The differential having a much lower gear ratio in the back, driving in two wheel drive helped mask the problem. Once they started having problems and couldn’t resolve them, they most likely traded it in to give their problems to someone else.
So, if you’re wondering what the moral of the story is: When you’re buying a Jeep that has been fixed up, without an accurate history of its past, you should expect to run into some problems. Maybe not as extensive as this one, but with all the aftermarket parts (we’re not saying they’re bad parts), you may not know what has been installed on the Jeep correctly or incorrectly.
It’s definitely a good idea to get it looked over very well by a mechanic at an auto repair shop. If it’s lifted or highly modified, you may also want to go to a second shop that specializes in Jeep performance and have those components looked at.
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.
The quality of the parts used on a vehicle can play a large role in how it runs.
Brakes are no exception.
We don’t recommend installing cheap brakes, which promote noise, vibrations, and road symptoms — such as rapid wear.
Another reason why you don’t want to use cheap brake pads and rotors is because the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is programmed to have a certain amount of braking force and the computers know when the brakes are cold or hot.
If you replace them with inferior parts, the control systems can be affected in an emergency situation. They may not grab as hard or they could have too much of a fade, impacting the safety of those in the car.
The minimum Virginia State Safety recommendations is no less than 2/32 of an inch.
Depending on the make and model of the vehicle and your driving conditions, it’s a good idea to start changing your brakes around 3/32 of an inch to 4/32 of an inch. For some vehicles, the manufacturer’s recommendation could be higher.
Brake rotors should be changed with a brake job because most of the rotors on today’s vehicles wear down. Rotors need to be able to dissipate heat so you don’t get a pulsation or vibration type feeling in the steering wheel and brake pedal. That pulsation symptom can impact the ADAS system.
Some indications you may need a brake job are grinding noises and brake pedal pulsation. You may also notice a low pedal or a high end squeak noises, which could be the pad low indicator rubbing on the brake rotor.
Keep in mind, if it has rained or been humid recently, you may notice squeaking when you first start braking early in the morning. If it goes away after you’ve pressed on the brake a couple times, it’s most likely a little bit of rust built up due to the humidity or the brake rotors being wet.
At HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire, part of our inspection process during our oil change is to do a visual inspection of the brakes to see if they’re getting low or if we notice any other problems. Many of the vehicles today have electronically controlled components, such as steering and brake callipers, that can hide some of the normal symptoms you would notice in older cars.
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.
It produces a bunch of reliable options. One of its products – the Michelin Defender Tire – has become a favorite among drivers.
Many motorists approve of how well it performs across the different seasons. Others appreciate the long lifespan and comfortable ride it provides.
More tire sizes have become available over the years. Not only is it offered for SUVs and trucks, it can also be used by passenger vehicles and smaller cars.
Ready for any season
Having an all season tire that can be trusted in snow and rain
The Michelin Defender Tire excels in all kinds of weather. It offers great traction in dry conditions as well as wet weather.
When you’re driving on wet roads and have less time to brake, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tire’s grip comes in handy. It has better snow traction than other tires, as well.
Those using the Michelin Defender T + H Tire can experience control and awesome grip all year, thanks to IntelliSipe technology. This tire also features rain grooves, which reduce the chance of hydroplaning.
Michelin Defender Tire worth the investment
The investment you put into the Michelin Defender Tire is well worth it. It’s designed with EverTread Compound, which helps extend its lifespan.
This quiet tire can last you a while – as long it receives regular maintenance, such as tire rotations.
Michelin Defender LTX M/S tires go on light trucks and crossovers, and have a 70,000 mile treadwear warranty. Michelin Defender T + H tires, used on crossovers and passenger cars, can last up to 80,000 miles.
So, depending on how much you drive, this tire may not need to be replaced for several years.
The lifespan isn’t the only feature that makes the Michelin Tire a good value. If you purchase the Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tire, you could save even more money. Thanks to Michelin MaxTouch Construction, you may save as much as 65 gallons in fuel through the life of this eco-friendly tire, based on comparisons with other tires.
Other tires, tire services offered at HomeTowne Auto Repair
HomeTowne Auto Repair sells tires produced by Michelin Tire and other manufacturers, including BFGoodrich Tire and Uniroyal Tire.
We offer a road hazard warranty that’s good for three years or until any part of the tire reaches 2/32 of an inch or less. If the tire becomes unserviceable because of a road hazard, a replacement tire will be installed. If one isn’t available, a comparable tire will be put on, if it occurs within the first 33 percent of usable treadwear.* Talk to us to hear more details.
Help with changing a flat tire is available. For eligible expenses incurred for services related to flat tire changing, up to $75 will be reimbursed.
The road hazard warranty is good nationwide, so if you’re traveling you don’t have to wait to get in touch with us to access it.
In addition to selling tires, our Woodbridge tire shop performs a variety of tire services. Our technicians are able to repair tires – depending on the injury and where it’s located – and conduct wheel alignments.
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.
Regular checkups are important to one’s health. The same proves true for vehicles.
Between every 3,000 and 5,000 miles, it’s a good idea to have the oil changed.
This is one way you can maintain your car and its engine.
When changing the oil, our technicians remove the drain plug, which releases oil from the engine.
After we catch the oil, we replace the drain plug and change the oil filter. The oil filter is located on the top or bottom of the engine, depending on the vehicle’s design.
Then, the technicians put the correct viscosity and amount of oil in the car, place a reminder sticker on the windshield, and reset the reminder on the dashboard.
We use full synthetic oil.
Oil change
When performing an oil change, our technicians also do a courtesy inspection where they check various components, including the lights, tires and brakes.
Oil changes help ensure that an engine is functioning properly, and avoiding them can lead to damage down the road.
For example, if your car takes five quarts of oil and you’re running it on three and a half or four quarts, it may run and sound fine. However, you’re destroying the engine, because it’s not reaching every part it’s supposed to.
You may not experience a problem until 30,000 or 40,000 miles later when metal particles are found in the oil. By this point, parts have started to break down.
Many new, fuel-efficient cars have high compression, which means your car may be burning oil without you knowing it.
They also have oil lubricated turbos that can be destroyed overtime.
Another reason it’s extremely important to change your oil is that the engines have much tighter tolerances. A lot of engines have variable valve timing, and if sludge starts to build up that can cause problems with the oil solenoids that control the camshafts and can actually plug return galleries from the top of the engine so the oil can’t get back down to the oil pan as quickly.
Having your oil changed early isn’t a bad idea. We also suggest checking your oil every other time you fill your gas tank, because you can’t tell when you’re driving your car if it’s low.
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.
One malfunctioning sensor can throw a car’s system off.
Jason replaced a backup sensor on a 2011 Cadillac CTS. There was a code that the rear object detection system wasn’t working properly.
When this system is disabled, the vehicle isn’t able to identify an object a driver can’t see.
This affects parallel parking and how close the car is to another car, a tree, or a curb.
The rear object detection system is one component we can address through our Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) system.
Driver assist, which can be found in many cars, also includes emergency braking, traffic sign recognition and surround view.
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.
A Dodge Charger came into HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire for a tire alignment earlier this month.
Before performing an alignment, our technicians check the vehicle’s suspension.
During his inspection, Ray noticed clay on the lower ball joints on the left, front side and recommended a new lower control arm and a ball joint.
New subframe needed
When installing the lower control arm, he found the subframe was bent from some sort of impact.
Because the subframe holds the engine, Ray needed to use a special hoist to hold the engine while he put in the new subframe.
This situation is a good example of why you shouldn’t hide or leave out information when talking to a technician or service adviser.
You can save time and money by sharing as much information as possible.
Check out this article we wrote to learn about other reasons why you shouldn’t lie to your mechanic.
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.
