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Sludge buildup and how it impacts the engine

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Updated July 26, 2024

Sludge buildup is a recurring issue in some vehicles.

Sludge — old, thick oil that is sticking to the engine — can get sucked into solenoids and other components, causing them to go bad.

Some vehicles are prone to sludge buildup. It also depends on the driving style.

This problem can impact the engine and how a car runs.

Signs of sludge

Drivers might notice a few symptoms when sludge is present.

One possible sign is the engine not working as it was designed.

Sludge buildup may prevent the timing chain tensioners from functioning properly. Different parts can get dirty, such as the variable valve timing sprockets, which work off oil pressure.

The oil pickup screen can become clogged, as well, causing a low oil pressure problem.

If you see warning lights – like the check engine light and oil pressure light – appear, that could also be an indicator.

Sludge buildup may lead to camshaft variation codes and result in false readings from sensors.

Varnish buildup is another issue vehicles may face. Varnish can develop on the lifters overtime.

Performing engine service on a Honda

Dynamic engine service is a potential solution to sludge buildup and upper engine tapping noises.

Monitoring engine oil pressure.
Monitoring engine oil pressure

This service was performed on a Honda Odyssey. It was running rough and the check engine light had turned on.

We started the process by adding engine cleaner. Once the engine reached its operating temperature, we drained the oil and changed the oil filter.

Engine cleaner was added again and the engine ran in neutral for 45 minutes.

Then, our technician drained the engine cleaner and replaced the oil filter before adding new engine cleaner and running the engine in neutral for 20 minutes. 

Afterward, the oil filter was changed, and new oil and oil conditioner was installed.

Throughout the dynamic engine service, we watched the engine oil pressure. If the pressure drops, it could mean that something is blocking the oil pump suction line strainer.

Preventing sludge buildup through maintenance

Dynamic Engine Restoration Service is recommended for cars that experience sludge buildup as a repeat problem.

Adding engine cleaner.
Adding engine cleaner

Sludge can sometimes be avoided by taking care of your vehicle.

Some people don’t service the PCV system, which can lead to buildup.

Having proper oil maintenance performed with high quality oil is another way to prevent sludge from accumulating.

Depending on the vehicle, oil changes are recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Heat, pressure, time and combustion gasses all contribute to the oil looking dirty.

With today’s engine and the variable adjustable camshafts, making sure the oil ports are clear is very 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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Rear differential repairs offered at HomeTowne

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Noises can tell us a lot about car problems. Some may indicate that rear differential repairs are needed.

One technician recently installed a new rear differential on a 1998 Pontiac Firebird. The car was brought in when the driver noticed a rotational noise from the rear.

At first, we thought the universal joints — also known as u-joints — were the culprits, because they were older and dried out. U-joints connect different parts, such as the driveshaft and rear differential.

Replacing them, however, didn’t fix the problem.

After further investigation, we decided that the rear differential needed to be replaced.

A Pontiac Firebird.
Firebird

What is the rear differential?

The rear differential sits between the rear wheels. It takes rotational energy the drive shaft creates and splits it to the wheels equally.

In this article we published, we talk about how you can prolong the life of your differential and some signs it’s going bad.

We replaced the rear differential in this situation, but we also do rear differential repairs.

Other sources of sounds

Sometimes axle bearings on the rear axle can go bad and make a growling or humming sound. That sound can depend on the type of vehicle and whether it’s coming from the left or right side of the vehicle.

The carrier bearings, which are attached to the ring and pinion, is a noise that people will hear in the car, especially if the pinion bearing is going bad. 

The pinion bearing is near the front of the differential, and that is where the driveshaft and the yoke of the differential connect. That’s also a common place for the front pinion seal to leak.

Another common problem is where the rear axle shaft seals begin to leak. It’s possible on some vehicles where the differential fluid could be slung around and actually get on the brake pads and rotors. 

This may reduce your braking ability — and in extreme circumstances — could catch on fire. Normally, you would just see smoke coming from the wheel, and it would stink.

Clutch packs, which can be found on some limited slip differentials or posi track differentials, can also cause some noise.

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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Signs that your car needs a new clutch

In Uncategorized by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Last month, a customer brought in their 2005 Volvo S60 after noticing that it wasn’t accelerating correctly.

Ray, one of our technicians, took it for a test drive and could feel the clutch slipping when he went up hill.

After checking out the car, he determined that it needed a new one. A new pressure plate and flywheel had to be installed, as well.

Old clutch and old pressure plate.
Old clutch and old pressure plate

When you push in the clutch, it releases the pressure plate and is able to spin. As you let go, it presses against the pressure plate, connecting the transmission and the engine.

The clutch, pressure plate and flywheel should be replaced at the same time. If you don’t replace the flywheel at the same time, it can leave heat marks and scratches.

New clutch and new pressure plate.
New clutch and new pressure plate

This particular vehicle had a dual mass flywheel and a self adjusting pressure plate, meaning that it required a clutch that didn’t have spring dampeners.

A high release point — when the pedal has to go a really long travel to engage — is one sign that your clutch disc is going bad.

The problem can mask itself as something else.

Every day drivers become used to subtle changes over time and may suddenly feel the transmission is going bad because it’s not engaging all the way.

It can feel like it’s not staying in gear, that the engine is running rough, or the transmission isn’t shifting properly.

Thickness of Old clutch and New clutch.
Thickness of old and new clutch

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 is my car air conditioning not working?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

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.
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. 

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My experience with my car’s starter going bad

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Written by Erin Flynn

A couple of months ago, I stopped by a gas station while I was on my way to work. When I restarted my Volkswagen Beetle, the engine didn’t turn over. 

(Ironically, this was the same gas station I was at when my check engine light started flashing in November.)

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 on a Volkswagen.
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 a car.
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.

A clicking sound is one of the signs that it’s going bad.

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. 

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What is an intercooler?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

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 on a lift.
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.

Old intercooler and new intercooler.
New intercooler and old intercooler

When you notice a problem with your vehicle, it’s important to share as much information as you can with the mechanic or auto shop.

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.

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How to prevent sludge build up

In Oil Change by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Dirty oil — known as sludge — can solidify and block passages overtime.

It was found on the valve covers and solenoids of a 2012 Ford 150. 

The truck was brought in after its check engine light turned on. The customer also noticed an overall loss of power.

Lack of oil maintenance and combustion gasses that are traveling to oil can cause sludge to build up.

Deposits begin to stick to the walls of tiny passages, corners, and areas where there isn’t much oil flow. 

Proper oil maintenance and using higher quality oils can prevent sludge from building up.

We recommend having your oil changed every 5,000 miles, because we use full synthetic oil.

Read about our switch to full synthetic oil and how we’re different from other shops.

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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Pitfalls of buying a used car

In Auto Shop Talk by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

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.

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Why you shouldn’t use cheap brakes

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Updated June 11, 2025

The quality of the parts used on a vehicle can play a large role in how it runs. 

Brakes are no exception.

Some drivers may opt for cheap brakes. While this choice may save them a few bucks in the meantime, they could lead to a few problems.

How cheap brakes impact vehicles

We don’t recommend using cheap brakes for a number of reasons. 

First of all, they can promote noise, vibrations, and road symptoms — such as rapid wear. These issues might not seem concerning initially, but you will eventually need to address them. 

The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is another factor to consider. 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.

Drivers could see more brake dust, as well. Cheap brakes are going to throw brake dust all over the wheels – so much so that it can turn a silver wheel black.

Brake measurement on a Kia Telluride.
Brake measurement on a Kia Telluride

After the warranty is up, high quality brakes tend to last much longer and come with fewer symptoms than cheaper ones.

You may not see a difference between the two when you pull out of the auto shop parking lot. What you will notice is the value retention on the more expensive brakes is going to hold its weight.

Brake wear indicators

Brakes are one of the parts checked during the Virginia State Inspection. 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. 

Burnt brake pads and rotors on a GMC Sierra.
Burnt brake pads and rotors on a GMC Sierra

We look into any warning lights and performance problems, as well. The brakes on a GMC Sierra were locking up and glowing red. One of our technicians learned that the brake pads and rotors were burnt.

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.

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Michelin Defender Tire features long lifespan

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When it comes to tires, Michelin is top of line.

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 Tires

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 can give you tire recommendations based on your vehicle and driving conditions. Other great tires include the Michelin CrossClimate 2 Tire, the BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport Tire, and the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S 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.