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Does my car need new brakes?

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Typically, drivers don’t know that their car needs new brakes until they bring it to a repair shop for an oil change or to address a problem.

While performing an oil change, our technicians do a tire rotation and look over the vehicle. During this courtesy inspection, we may find that it requires new brakes or they are reaching the end of their lifespan.

To pass the annual state inspection, brakes must be a least 2/32 of an inch. However, we suggest replacing them when they get to 3/32 or 4/32 of an inch, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions.

Read more about brakes and the Virginia safety inspection.

When you go in for your next oil change, it’s a good time to have all four of your brakes checked.

Signs that new brakes, brake repair are needed

Overtime, you may start to notice certain signs, such as squealing and the vehicle taking longer to stop.

If you put off replacing brakes, it will likely lead to further damage down the road.

How often brakes need to be replaced depends on many factors, including the make and model. Driving behaviors, how much someone drives, and stop and go traffic also play a role.

Generally, brakes can last anywhere from 36,000 to 80,000 miles. We have replaced them at 18,000 miles, which was extremely low. 

It’s important to make sure the types of brakes put on your car are of good quality and meet Original Equipment (OE) specifications, because the way the vehicle safety system works they are programmed to operate with certain types of parts. 

If you put inferior parts on, the systems like Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may not perform correctly.

Sometimes, brake repair is needed between brake jobs.

These are some symptoms that a vehicle is in need of brake repair.

Brake services we offer

HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire offers an array of brake services.

Our technicians can replace various components. These include: the master cylinder, vacuum or hydraulic boosters, brake lines, calipers or wheel cylinders, brake pads and rotors, and brake drums and shoes. 

We are also able to replace the entire parking brake system, whether it’s electric or not. The parking brake is made up of the handle or pedal, and linkage from the handle or pedal to the rear caliper or shoe. 

Brake fluid exchanges are performed at HomeTowne Auto Repair, as well. 

Recommended every 30,000 miles, this service prevents corrosion from building up on the inside of the calipers.

If your Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) warning light comes on, we can look into that too.

The brake system is made up of many parts, and it’s important to keep up with it. If you notice something out of the ordinary, it won’t hurt to call a local repair shop and ask them about it.

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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My car is making a clunking noise

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Are you hearing a clunking noise when you’re driving? Don’t worry, you’re not going crazy (well … hopefully not).

Clunking and rattling sounds are one sign you may notice when there is a problem with your car’s steering and suspension.

So, what’s the source of all that racket?

Well, the question of why a car is making a clunking noise isn’t an easy one to answer. Because many components make up this part of a vehicle, the direct cause might be hidden under layers of possibilities.

Possible causes of clunking noises

There are numerous reasons that could be behind a clunking sound.

It may be the result of parts – like strut mounts and bushings – wearing out overtime, due to age, wear and tear, driving conditions and driving style. 

Common causes of a clunking noise include sway bar links, which are small links and easier to damage. 

Sway bar end links and sway bar bushings are problems that are often misdiagnosed, because they sound worse than they are.

We worked on a Range Rover that had a clunking sound. When working on the vehicle, we found that not only had the ball joint come out of the steering knuckle, but the sway bar end link was broken.

Struts have mounts on the top that can make a knocking sound. The spring typically lasts the lifetime of the vehicle, depending on what model you have. Normally, the strut inside won’t make any noise. Bearings located on the strut mount, however, could make a knocking noise when they wear out. 

The issue might also have to do with the drag link, control arms or coil springs. Other culprits of clunking noises are: idler arms, pitman arms – which are part of a drag link-type steering system – and tie rod ends.

What to do if you hear a clunking noise

If you hear an odd noise, you should make a note of what it sounds like – whether it’s a clunking, squeaking, groaning, moaning or popping. 

We also recommend that you pay attention to when you hear it, or what you are doing at the time. Are you turning, speeding up, slowing down, or going over a speed bump?

These details can be shared with a mechanic or a car repair shop near you, saving them a lot of time by helping narrow down what’s causing the sound.

Being honest when talking to an automotive professional is also helpful. If you have been in a car accident or hit a curb recently, we suggest you mention it. That may be the clue needed to determine the problem.

Tracking down a sound through diagnostic testing, as well as ordering and installing any necessary parts does take time. So, don’t be surprised if the mechanic or auto repair shop asks to keep the vehicle for a few days.

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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Diagnostic testing on a Toyota Tacoma

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Diagnostic testing is a process of elimination.

As our technicians work on vehicles, they determine where the problem lies and, through research and communication with the customer, figure out the cause.

Some issues, however, aren’t so cut and dry.

A Toyota Tacoma was brought in because it would occasionally stutter when going uphill, even after the driver let off of the accelerator. The symptom started recently and was growing worse.

What we did to figure out the problem

First, we took the truck on a couple of test drives and checked for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). 

Then, one of the techs performed a transmission drain and fill to get rid of any contaminants. While the problem did get better, it didn’t go away completely.

This led us to take a look over parts and determine that it may need a new transmission.

The complexity of diagnostic testing

There’s not always one way to approach everything. Sometimes, cars have mechanical failures that don’t trigger a trouble code, which acts as a starting point. 

In the case of the Toyota, the symptom being described felt like many problems – a shift shutter, a misfire, a bad tire – and was intermittent. 

Rather than following a diagnostic tree that a manufacturer provides, we need to use logic and experience to isolate the issue. 

This includes checking fluid levels and, sometimes causing a fault to ensure that components are working. For example, we may purposefully leave a sensor unplugged to see if it will cause a circuit code.

With the Tacoma, it was a mixture of possible misfires, differential problems and transmission problems.

This is why we can’t say that one level of diagnostic testing is needed to address an issue. It could require further investigation. We just don’t know until we start working on it. 

Read about why diagnostic testing is important.

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 fluid exchange keeps cooling system running correctly

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Your vehicle’s cooling system helps prevent the engine from overheating by ensuring that it’s running at a safe temperature.

Because of the important role the system plays, it’s important for it to be maintained.

As time goes on, coolant breaks down and supplements that hinder corrosion start being used up. This causes the coolant to turn acidic and parts, including the water pump and radiator, to corrode. 

Reasons to get a coolant fluid exchange

A coolant fluid exchange keeps the system clean and restores coolant that has diminished over time.

It gets rid of any rust that has accumulated on the coolant lines and cooling system fins, and also removes sludge and scale. 

Buildup of rust, scale and sludge impacts circulation and makes it more difficult for engines to release heat.

Contaminants in coolant on Chrysler Pacifica.
Contaminants in coolant on Chrysler Pacifica

To keep your cooling system running correctly, we recommend coolant fluid exchanges every 30,000 miles.

We use a cooling system cleaner and additive when performing this service.

How to know if you need a coolant fluid exchange

There are also a few symptoms you may notice when a coolant fluid exchange is needed.

These signs include leaks, hose failure and a vehicle having trouble starting. An increase in temperature and losing coolant are other clues.

You may also notice that the coolant is darker, which occurs as the fluid breaks down. 

Because coolant that needs to be changed is acidic, technicians may check it with a test strip. This helps them determine the PH level. 

Having a cleaner system that works better is only one benefit of a coolant fluid exchange.

It can also extend the coolant’s lifespan, improve performance, and decrease the likelihood of a vehicle overheating.

You’ve heard the lifetime coolant. What the manufacturers are referring to is the life expectancy of you owning that vehicle before getting a new one. But that might not be the same as your expectancy. If you’re someone who plans to own their vehicle for 12 + years, it’s important to change your engine coolant every 30,000 miles.

Make sure the right coolant is used

It’s also important to use the correct type of coolant. Most people think the coolant is green, but it can also come in blue and yellow. Actually, the color of coolant is clear, and the color you see is just dye.

The dye helps manufacturers identify that it’s the coolant approved for the type of metal the engines are made out of.

The metal used in Asian vehicles differs from what’s used in the USA. So using the wrong type of engine coolant can actually hurt certain vehicles.

Coolants for European cars, such as BMWs and Mercedes, are manufactured not only to protect their engine but also engine concerns if it leaks out of the vehicle.

You can use a universal green type of coolant. But just because it’s green doesn’t mean it’s correct. It’s OK to use green, but you need to make sure that it’s high quality.

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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Fuel induction service restores engine performance

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

As your vehicle gets older, you may notice that it isn’t running the way it used to.

If it seems to be struggling to start or feels rough when idle, it could mean that carbon deposits have built up in the engine because of ethanol. 

In addition to particles in the engine, ethanol can cause corrosion to develop, impact your vehicle’s ability to drive properly, and cause parts to fail.

These deposits can be removed through a fuel induction service, which we recommend every 30,000 miles. 

How often you have it performed also depends on the vehicle.

Some BMWs with direct injection for the fuel system and some vehicles with GDI engines actually have carbon build up problems, and it may be a good idea to conduct this service more often.

Other signs of carbon buildup

Difficulty starting your vehicle and rough idle are only a couple of symptoms of carbon buildup.

Poor gas mileage and knocking in the engine are other indicators. 

You may also experience stalling, engine surges, loss in power and more emissions that are being released.

Carbon buildup on the intake valves of a Honda.
Carbon buildup

Perks of the fuel induction service

Regular maintenance, such as clearing out carbon buildup, prevents engine damage. This helps you save money down the road.

Having a cleaner air induction system and fuel injection system isn’t the fuel induction service’s only perk.

It also restores engine power and decreases the amount of emissions the tailpipe emits. Improved air and fuel flow and increased fuel economy are other benefits of this service.

Fuel induction service process

A fuel induction service begins with adding BG Fuel System Drier to the fuel tank. This soaks up and suspends moisture that collects due to condensation.

Then, our technicians add BG Ethanol Fuel System Defender, a fuel system cleaner that cleans out various components, including the fuel lines, fuel injectors, and the backs of the valves. 

In addition to removing particles in the fuel system, it provides protection against ethanol-related damage.

Lastly, they run an air intake system cleaner, which removes grime on the intake manifold and cleans the valves in the intake system.

It’s important to keep up with this service, especially with the stop and go traffic common in the Northern Virginia area.

How BG 44K benefits your fuel system

In between the fuel induction services, it may be a good idea to use BG 44K to help keep that fuel system clean and make sure your car is in tip top shape.

BG 44K cleans the fuel system and gets rid of particles that accumulate on many components, including combustion chambers, oxygen sensors and injectors. 

Enhanced engine performance, better combustion, and a cleaner catalytic converter are other benefits of using BG 44K.

This product, which can be used on diesel engines and turbocharged engines, can also decrease issues that carbon buildup causes. 

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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How HomeTowne Auto Repair gives back to the community

In Community Involvement by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Giving back to the community is important to us.

It’s one of the ways we stand out. (You can read more about how we’re different from other repair shops here.)

To meet our goal of supporting the community, HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire partners with local non-profits.

They include The Arc of Greater Prince William, the Americans in Wartime Experience, and Action in Community Through Service (ACTS).

Assisting The Arc of Greater Prince William

The Arc of Greater Prince William serves individuals with mental and physical disabilities.

In addition to working on the 50 vehicles The Arc operates, we provide the organization with free oil changes and safety and emission inspections.

“And sometimes, when a vehicle breaks down with somebody with a disability on the vehicle, they are on the spot immediately to make sure that we care for our folks, get the vehicle back and running or bring a replacement vehicle so we continue the mission that we have each and every day,” The Arc of Greater Prince William Director of Resource Development Chris Caseman said.

Through our media arm, What’s Up Prince William (WUPW.news), we are able to share The Arc’s programs and fundraisers.

“Every time we have a program that’s coming out, What’s Up Prince William will help us put a program together, help us put the promotional material together and make it happen,” Caseman added.

Our support of the Americans in Wartime Experience

The Americans in Wartime Experience seeks to honor those who served in the military and on the homefront. It is constructing an education center and landscapes of war off of Dale Boulevard in Dale City. 

“That organization is a little bit unique where it actually can bring some tourism to the Dale City area, and they talk about the military in a little bit different way than some of the other museums do, where these tanks actually – they’re able to drive around,” HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire Co-Owner and WUPW.news Publisher ST Billingsley explained. 

With WUPW.news, we promote the annual Tank Farm Open House and support the museum’s newsletter.

Billingsley has worked alongside Neabsco District Supervisor Victor Angry to share any news from the supervisor’s office as well as promote the Dale City Volunteer Fire Department (DCVFD) and the Americans in Wartime Museum. 

“What’s Up Prince William, and ST, and everyone that’s a part of it spends a lot of time, a lot of hours putting together marketing – productive videos, spending time out on the Tank Farm, really telling the story of Americans in wartime, which is something that this community and this nation really need to never forget – the stories of the sacrifices that our veterans have endured to allow us to have the freedoms that we have here in America today,” Angry said.

How HomeTowne Auto Repair helps ACTS

ACTS is a Dumfries-based non-profit that provides various services to community members.

WUPW.news shares information about programs, news and events. It promotes the IWALK for ACTS on Facebook and through videos, including one that runs at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center.

“ACTS’ annual IWALK would not be the same without What’s Up Prince William. Every year, they’re the media sponsor and they’re the ones who help get everybody to come out and support,” ACTS CEO Steve Liga said. “When I look around and I see blue shirts by the hundreds, I know What’s Up Prince William helped get them there.”

The news site also works on projects that focus on various topics, including the organization’s 50th anniversary. It created videos about the Prince William Food Rescue app, as well.

“That’s another way in which we’ve [been] able to partner to get our message out and to be able to communicate with the community very clearly about our program, and that’s just been fantastic,” Prince William Food Rescue Program Director Aaron Tolson.

The Arc, the Americans in Wartime Experience and ACTS are just three ways we support the community throughout the year. WUPW.news promotes other non-profits and area businesses.

“We are from here, we work here, and we support here,” Billingsley said. “Please support 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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Tire rotations and their importance

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

As a car owner, you are an investor – you invest in oil changes, needed parts and new tires.

We all know that taking care of a car isn’t cheap. Maintenance may feel like a burden sometimes, however, it can prevent future expenses.

One service we offer is tire rotations, where the front and back tires change places. 

This service might not sound exciting or important, but it can actually be very beneficial.

Benefits of tire rotations

First of all, it helps your tires last longer.

The suspension in the front and back are set up differently. For example, the engine and heavy weight is in the front. So, if the front tires aren’t rotated to the back they will wear irregularly and start feathering – which are lips that create tire noise.

Tire rotations not only protect your tires, they also allow us to take a look at the brakes. Additionally, our technicians are able to move the lug nuts, where corrosion tends to develop, and check anything else that the tires are hiding. 

Our courtesy inspections

We provide free tire rotations during oil changes, which we suggest having done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

A free courtesy inspection is performed, as well. During this check, we look at the car battery, lights and other components.

While working on a vehicle, our techs complete digital inspections that provide details, photos and videos of any needed repairs.

Customers may access the inspection via text or email.

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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Why your car AC is important during the winter

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

It’s cold outside. So, why should I worry if my car’s air conditioning works or not? 

Well, there’s actually a very good reason. 

An a/c system’s role in winter

During the winter, obviously we use our defroster a lot – especially in the morning – to clear the windshield and side windows. Normally, you put it on full blast as you’re warming up the car. 

But on today’s vehicles, when you turn it to the defrost setting, the air conditioning does come on to help dehumidify the air before it goes across the heater core.

It’s kind of like your house – when you have the air conditioning running during the summer, condensation develops as the moisture is being pulled out of the air. It’s the same concept when you have your car AC on for the defroster. If you’re putting dry, warm air on the windshield – rather than moist, warm air – it helps keep the windows clear.

The moisture that is removed from the air goes out the drain tube through the evaporator.

Even though we’re talking about this in the winter time, it also comes into effect during the rest of the year when it’s raining or the temperature drops a bit. A car’s air conditioning keeps the windshield clear of the fog compared to clearing the windshield of ice and snow.

Your car AC system helps you drive safer by enabling you to see.

Car AC problems

Common problems that can affect the air conditioning for the defroster include being low on freon and the AC compressor not working. There may also be a control problem from an air conditioning module, AC switch or defrost button. 

If you’re having an issue with the mode selector for the vent controls, it could have to do with a switch or blendor motor, which controls where the air goes – the windshield, vents or the floor.

Here are five possible reasons why the air conditioning isn’t working.

Right now is a perfect time to check to make sure everything is working. If not, have it checked out at your local, independent repair shop.

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 causes an engine misfire?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

It’s important to note any abnormal sounds and behaviors when using your vehicle. These symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that could grow worse overtime. 

Engine misfires are a significant problem that you should be aware of.

What is an engine misfire?

An engine misfire is when the air in the fuel isn’t ignited correctly, which leads to a decrease of engine performance. It could be computer, electronic or mechanical related.

What are signs that an engine is misfiring?

The check engine light turning on is one sign of a misfire. However, you shouldn’t assume that your car is misfiring just because this icon illuminated. A check engine light may also come on for other reasons, like being low on oil or catalytic converter problems.

Check engine light on Kia Optima.

Other symptoms include a vehicle running rough and stalling.

Your vehicle may seem to have trouble accelerating or stuttering. If it’s bad enough, it might feel as though it’s stumbling.

On a really bad misfire, you could get a popping sound through the intake manifold.

What causes an engine to misfire?

Components that have gone bad, including ignition coils and spark plugs, may result in an engine misfire. A bad timing belt or fuel injector might be the culprit too.

Spark plugs.
Spark plugs

A vehicle needs to have the right amount of air and fuel. Misfires can occur if there is too much or too little air or fuel.

Timing plays a role, as well. If the timing isn’t in line, then the camshaft sensor and crankshaft sensor aren’t able to communicate.

Another cause behind a misfire is a mechanical engine problem. There could be camshaft lobe wear, a rocker arm issue, a valve problem, or a mixture of the three. Maybe the valves aren’t opening and closing the way they should.

An engine misfire could even be caused by contaminated fuel, or it might be the result of a malfunctioning sensor that’s preventing the computer from igniting the fuel or controlling the spark correctly. 

How do we figure out what’s causing an engine misfire?

We perform diagnostic testing to determine why a misfire is occurring. 

Diagnostics can be anything from hooking up the scan tool and reading the codes from the computer, helping indicate that a misfire is being picked up. It may not tell you the underlying issue, but you have an idea of what cylinder to start on. 

It’s not uncommon for there to be a misfire and not have any codes. It’s also possible to get a code for something else and not a misfire code. Another sensor may be picking up something outside of the typical parameters and flagging for a code. That’s why it’s important to look into it – it’s not always clear cut.

What happens if you ignore a misfire?

If you believe your car’s engine is misfiring, it’s very important to have it checked out by a mechanic or auto repair shop as soon as you can. The problem could start happening more frequently or worsen if you don’t.

In fact, misfires that aren’t addressed can negatively impact the catalytic converter – a very expensive part that helps cut down on pollution. The items that this component is made up of change exhaust gasses from bad to good. 

When you have a misfire and you’re getting raw fuel or rich conditions in the exhaust, the catalytic converter gets really warm and starts melting from the inside out. When that happens, it can prevent air in the exhaust from being released.

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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Why you should get your wheel alignment checked once a year

In Vehicle Alignment by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

It’s important to have your car’s alignment checked once a year or when new tires are installed. This service can prevent tires from wearing prematurely.

While performing a wheel alignment on a Honda CR-V, we noticed that one of its tires needed to be replaced. 

Not only was the tire worn down to its tread wear indicator, it was going down to the secondary rubber. On the inside, the tire’s steel belts were showing.

A worn tire.
worn tire

In this particular case, the problem had to do with the camber adjustment being too negative which allowed for accelerated inner tire wear.

Camber, caster and toe are the main specifications our technicians check when conducting a wheel alignment.

A computer screen that's showing a vehicle's wheel alignment.
Honda Wheel Alignment

Worn or bent suspension components and a vehicle being overloaded consistently cause this problem, as well.

Sometimes, items and their weight could impact an alignment.

If you’re consistently driving around with 1,000 newspapers in the back, for example, you may want to have the alignment done with the newspapers in the car.

A lot of cars now have specifics on how much weight is in the car, if the fuel tank is full. and the ride height, because the engineers try to compensate for this problem. However, they can’t make up for extreme conditions.

On most Hondas, you do perform a four-wheel alignment because you can adjust the rear toe from the factory settings.

How worn parts can impact a wheel alignment

When it comes to worn suspension components – like rear upper control arms on Honda CRVs and elements – the bushings go bad and the top of the tire looks like it’s leaning toward the inside of the car. 

Replacing them with upgraded upper control arms – which comes with adjustments – you can then adjust the rear camber.

The strut assemblies can wear down over time and cause problems, as well.

Hitting potholes, curbs and objects in the road can bend control arms or struts and steering knuckles, which can also cause a tire wire/wheel alignment problem.

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.