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Is my AC compressor clutch going bad?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Some of our technicians have been working in the automotive industry for many years, and they still encounter new problems.

A unique issue was discovered on a GMC Terrain. Our customer brought the SUV in because they could hear a screeching noise while driving. This sound was coming from the passenger side and would get progressively louder as they were changing gears.

So began the diagnostic testing process.

How did we find the source of the screeching noise?

The noise was very noticeable when our technician started working on the GMC Terrain.

When the serpentine belt was taken off, the sound went away. So, he knew the problem had something to do with the air conditioning compressor.

The compressor creates pressure in the air conditioning system, compressing the refrigerant.

After removing the belt, the technician realized the clutch on the AC compressor was damaged and determined that it had failed.

We replaced the compressor and the serpentine belt. This belt wraps around your accessories, such as the alternator, compressor and – if the car has hydraulic power steering – the power steering pump. It’s a good idea to replace it while we’re there.

Diagnostic testing will look differently for each car. It can include visual inspections, test drives, receiving assistance from tools, and using the process of elimination to track down the culprit.

AC compressor replacement on GMC Terrain.
AC compressor replacement on GMC Terrain

What AC compressor problems can occur?

The problem we saw on the GMC Terrain isn’t a common one. In fact, our technician hasn’t seen it happen before. 

AC compressor clutches engage the pulley to the compressor. 

They could go bad, but normally because they wear out. The clutch coil may burn out, keeping it from engaging or unengaging.

An internal compressor problem is also possible. The compressor can get dragged down or locked up, or it might become worn enough that it doesn’t compress enough pressure.

How do I know if my AC compressor clutch is bad?

Like the GMC Terrain owner, drivers might notice symptoms when there’s a problem with the AC compressor or compressor clutch.

If the clutch coil is wearing out, it could engage or unengage sporadically. 

You can listen for noises, too. Sometimes, the air conditioning compressor or AC compressor clutch will start chattering. 

Air conditioning problems may also indicate that something is wrong with the compressor or clutch. (Keep in mind that a compressor going bad is just one of many possible causes behind car AC problems.)

If you’re hearing a sound you don’t recognize or a system isn’t working how it’s supposed to, it’s worth having the problem checked out. There may be an issue that worsens or impacts you later on. 

In the case of the GMC Terrain, our customer can now enjoy a quieter ride and expect to have a working air conditioning system come summertime.

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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Brake hardware problems and maintenance

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When we think of brake repair, our minds normally go to replacing brake pads and rotors, or calipers.

However, brake maintenance can also include other parts you might not be as familiar with, such as brake hardware. 

Sometimes, brake jobs involve replacing or taking care of these smaller (yet vital) pieces.

What is hardware for brakes?

What is considered brake hardware will differ between disc brakes and drum brakes.

On disc brakes, this is going to be clips that rest on the brake caliper bracket. Those clips either hold the brake head in place or provide a surface so the brake pad can slide back and forth.

Rear brake drum hardware.
Rear brake drum hardware

Brake hardware for drum brakes are the springs and hold downs that hold the shoes in place and allow them to move.

What brake hardware problems can occur?

Typically, the hardware will become rusted or break. Moisture and heat are your two biggest enemies.

In Northern Virginia, the occasional winter weather we receive could have an impact. Salt and sand from the road can corrode metal.

How do you know if brake hardware is bad?

There aren’t many signs that the hardware on your vehicle has reached the end of its lifespan. Hardware primarily will make a high pitched sound if it comes into contact with anything.

Unless a driver notices a problem (such as a noise), our technicians usually see if there are any hardware problems when performing a visual inspection.

We are able to install new brake hardware if needed.

What happens if you don’t replace brake hardware?

If you don’t replace hardware when it comes time, they can become brittle or may get damaged on the transfer.

After you’ve disturbed them, the hardware will start making noise.

How can you maintain hardware for brakes?

Brake hardware is metal, so it can last a long time if it’s taken care of properly. You can maintain disc brakes through lubrication. 

Front disc brake caliper hardware.
Front disc brake caliper hardware

It’s important that the right kind is used. The brake caliper grease needs to be able to stick so it won’t run off when it gets hot.

We use the same grease we put the slide pins in with to lubricate the disc brake hardware.

Not only does brake hardware require a certain type of lubrication, it also matters how much is applied.

Using the right amount of grease will help you avoid corrosion buildup while preventing items on the road from collecting on brake parts.

Generally, you don’t grease drum brakes, except for a couple of contact points on the dust shield. Drum brakes require what’s called a “clean and adjust”. Vehicles with disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear should get a clean and adjust every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

What should I do if I think I need new hardware?

If you’re picking up on a high pitched noise (or any other sound) while driving, ask an auto repair shop to look into the problem.

Our technicians check out these concerns through noise diagnostics, which consists of test drives, visual inspections, and recreating the sound.

If an autoshop finds new hardware is needed, it’s a good idea to move forward with that recommendation.

By replacing key brake parts and performing proper maintenance, you can keep your braking system running as designed.

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

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Reasons behind windshield wiper problems

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

We have noticed a lot of vehicles coming in with windshield wiper problems.

A wide range of issues can affect this area – from windshield wipers that need to be replaced to deeper concerns.

To maintain visibility, it’s important to have these concerns addressed early on – especially with the long nights of winter and the inclement weather this season may bring.

What can cause windshield wiper problems?

Many items can be culprits behind windshield wiper problems. These components include:

  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Windshield wipers
  • Fuses
  • Windshield wiper arm
  • Windshield washer nozzles
  • Switch control
  • Windshield washer pump
  • Control module
  • Windshield wiper motor
  • Hoses
  • Windshield wiper transmission

Why aren’t the windshield wipers clearing my windshield?

When driving along one day, you might go to clear the windshield of smudges but little or no windshield washer fluid comes out. Maybe the reservoir needs to be refilled, or there could be a leak.

Another factor to keep in mind is the temperature protection level of the fluid. If it doesn’t have a good temperature protection level, the windshield washer fluid can freeze in the reservoir and pump.

Torn windshield wipers on Honda CR-V.
Torn windshield wipers on Honda CR-V

Are your windshield wipers leaving streaks when they swipe across the windshield? Has an auto repair shop told you that one or multiple wiper blades are torn? It’s probably time for new windshield wipers.

When the wiper blades become worn, it may lead to squeaking or chattering sounds.

A chattering noise could also indicate that the windshield wiper arms aren’t using the right kind of pressure.

Why isn’t windshield washer fluid spraying out?

If no washer fluid is being released and you know there’s plenty of fluid in the system, the problem may lie with the windshield washer nozzles. They can get clogged or break.

A bad windshield washer pump is another potential reason why the windshield washer fluid might not be making it to the windshield. 

We recommended a new pump for a Hyundai Santa Fe. The washers weren’t working and the technician couldn’t hear the motor running.

Why aren’t my windshield wipers working?

Broken wiper motor.
Broken wiper motor

Sometimes, there’s a problem with the windshield wiper motor. This could prevent the windshield wipers from moving when you turn them on or spray washer fluid. 

The motor broke on a Mitsubishi Eclipse and needed to be replaced.

It’s also possible that something is wrong with the windshield wiper transmission or multiple parts. 

This was the case with a Lincoln Town Car, where the wipers only worked for one cycle, and a Chevrolet Malibu that had inoperable windshield wipers. After making sure the fuses and relays were working on the Malibu, we found that the transmission had fallen off of the motor. 

Both the Lincoln Town Car and Chevrolet Malibu needed a new wiper transmission and wiper motor.

If you’re hearing a clunking when the wipers are moving, it could be the wiper transmission linkage assembly.

How do we solve windshield wiper problems?

Diagnostic testing for windshield wiper problems begins with checking the signal from the switch to the motor. 

If the function of the switch works, we will make sure we’re getting continuity from the fuse panel. Our technicians also confirm that no fuses are blown. 

From there, we will test to the motor. Once we get to the motor, we can test voltage, amperage and basic linkage.

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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Does my car have a brake fluid leak?

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Car problems can sometimes stop us in our tracks, especially if it has something to do with the brakes.

The braking system requires its own maintenance that help prevent future issues

Certain challenges, however, crop up unexpectedly – brake fluid leaks being one of them.

How can I tell when I have a brake fluid leak?

Various signs can clue you in that your vehicle has a brake fluid leak. 

Low brake fluid: A shop might point out that the brake fluid is low when bringing your vehicle in for maintenance. If you’re experiencing any braking problems while out and about, you may want to check the brake fluid level.

Soft brake pedal: Does it seem like your brakes aren’t working right? When you step on the brake pedal, is it going to the floor? It could mean that your car has a brake fluid leak.

Fluid near wheel: If you have a brake fluid leak, you might see fluid around the wheel. Brake fluid can be brown, clear or yellow.

Red brake light: Low brake fluid is one of the possible reasons why the red brake light comes on.

Low brake fluid on Hyundai Tucson.
Low brake fluid on Hyundai Tucson

Where can brake fluid leak?

There are a number of places across the braking system where leaks could make an appearance.

These areas include brake lines and hoses, as well as calipers. Brake fluid leaks can also show up at fittings and the master cylinder. 

The wheel cylinder and anti-lock braking system (ABS) control module are other potential leak sources.

What are some reasons behind brake fluid leaks?

Over time, brake parts experience wear that may lead to brake fluid leaks.

For example, age and impacts could weaken the rubber on brake hoses. Seals near the brake caliper pistons might go bad. 

Corrosion can also take its toll. Sometimes, rust collects on brake lines and other components. We could see brake fluid leaking while inspecting a Land Rover. When he removed the side cover, the technician found rusted brake lines that were leaking.

How do we track down brake fluid leaks?

Nine times out of 10, brake fluid leaks are high pressure and exterior. So, it’s just a matter of lifting the vehicle up and looking underneath.

You figure out where the high pressure spray is coming from and there’s your leak. Another option is following any corrosion trails because brake fluid kills paint. 

The only time that you can have an internal brake fluid leak is behind the master cylinder and brake booster. In those cases, we have to remove the master cylinder to inspect this area.

Why should brake fluid leaks be fixed?

It’s important that brake fluid leaks are resolved as soon as possible. Why?

Reason number one – they are a safety concern. You shouldn’t use a vehicle if you think brake fluid is leaking, because it may impact the brake pressure.

These leaks are one of the items our technicians check for when performing a Virginia Safety Inspection.

You also don’t want to ignore brake fluid leaks because they could lead to additional repairs down the road. Brake fluid can ruin parts, due to its corrosive nature.

So, if you have reason to believe that your car is leaking brake fluid, get in touch with a nearby auto repair shop that can look it over.

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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All-season tires you can rely on

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When winter weather is in the forecast, it can be reassuring to know that your vehicle is ready for it.

High quality tires with good tread depth will give you the traction you need when it’s snowing, sleeting and raining.

Michelin Tire and BFGoodrich Tire have all-season tires that are designed for different vehicles and purposes, and come with unique features. 

Here are some reliable options we recommend: 

  • BFGoodrich Advantage Control HT Tire
  • Michelin Primacy All Season Tire
  • BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tire

In this article, we talk about a few other tires that are dependable in winter.

All-season tire options

BFGoodrich Advantage Control HT Tire.
BFGoodrich Advantage Control HT Tire

BFGoodrich Advantage Control HT Tire

If you need a tire for daily travel, the BFGoodrich Advantage Control HT Tire is one you should look into.

This all season tire can be used on a number of vehicles – SUVs, light trucks and CUVs.

Its braking capabilities can be trusted in wet weather conditions, thanks to the improved tread design.

The BFGoodrich Tire is built to last and comes with a 70,000 mile warranty. A new tread compound and tire structure help extend its lifespan.

Michelin Primacy All Season Tire
Michelin Primacy All Season Tire

Michelin Primacy All Season Tire

There are also eco-friendly tires. One of them is the Michelin Primacy All Season Tire, which aims to offer better fuel efficiency. 

It makes the most out of a vehicle’s fuel economy through low rolling resistance.

Being a fuel-efficient tire isn’t the only perk of this Michelin Tire. It offers a quiet and comfortable ride, too. This can be attributed to Piano Acoustic Tuning that’s found on the symmetrical tread design.

Investing in new tires isn’t something you will need to think about for a while if you choose the Michelin Primacy All Season Tire. This Michelin Tire lasts as long as 55,000 miles.

Until your next tire purchase, you can enjoy dependable traction whether it’s raining, snowing or sunny.

BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO3 Tire.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO3 Tire

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tire

BFGoodrich produces severe snow rated tires for drivers who experience a fair amount of winter weather. 

The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tire features the 3 peak mountain snowflake symbol.

It’s a tough tire made for pickups, CUVs and SUVs. Because of a new tread pattern and all-terrain tread compound, it can hold up on gravel. The sidewall is protected from sticks and stones due to the Advanced Deflection Design.

Backed by a 50,000 mile warranty, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tire can be your travel companion for a few years.

Which all-season tires should I buy?

Tire purchasing is a personal choice. It depends on several factors, including the make and model and how you plan to use the vehicle. 

The driving conditions and how frequently the car is driven should also be considered.

Specific preferences will play into the decision, as well. Some drivers are looking for a tire with a long lifespan. For others, fuel efficiency is top of mind. Meanwhile, those who embark on adventures will want to make sure the tires measure up.

There are many all-season tires available. A tire shop can show you what tires fit your vehicle and driving needs.

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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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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Brake noises and the problems behind them

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Did you hear that?

You may pick up on a wide range of sounds when you get behind the wheel. Some of them might stem from a car’s braking system.

In certain cases, brake noises can be normal. They could also mean that different kinds of brake repair or maintenance is needed. 

What brake noises can appear?

Brake noises you may notice include:

  • Rattling
  • Squealing
  • Grinding
  • Squeaking
  • Groaning
  • Popping

Brake hardware or a backing plate, which is a thin metal, are going to make a high pitched noise. If you’re hearing what appears to be a rattling, it could mean that the vehicle has broken brake hardware or loose brake parts. It may also be time to lubricate components.

Grinding sounds can be the result of brake wear. A low pitched grind is typically associated with metal on metal, such as the brake rotors rubbing against the plates on the brake pads.

Brakes metal to metal.
Brakes metal to metal

The wheel bearings might be causing uneven or early wear on the brake pads and rotors, too.

Rust and pitting on rotors cause noise or vibrations. Also, you have rust and corrosion on tone rings, which can make the anti-lock braking system (ABS) engage.

You may hear what appears to be a grinding noise if there is rust on the rotors from the vehicle sitting.

Rust building up can lead to a squeaking noise, as well. The weather could also be at fault. You might experience this symptom if it’s cold and damp outside. Certain brake pads – like performance brake pads – also create this sound if they’re cold.

There are several other possible causes behind brake noise. One of them is brake dust, which brakes produce as they experience wear.

Sounds can be linked with brake pads, as well. This symptom may appear when a vehicle has poor brake pads or uses cheap brake pad material. If new brake pads were installed on old brake rotors, it might generate brake noise.

Car sounds can clue you in on problems your vehicle is currently facing and repairs it may soon need.

How do we find the cause of brake noises?

Noise diagnostics may be needed to pinpoint the culprit behind brake noises.

This can include a visual inspection, test drive, and trying to imitate the sound.

It’s important to keep in mind that what’s heard may come across differently among drivers. So, if you aren’t sure what type of sound it is when talking to an auto repair shop, you might want to ask them to listen during the drop off.

What are other common brake problems?

Aside from brake noises and brake wear, our technicians look for a variety of brake problems.

These include issues with the brake pedal – does it feel soft or hard when you press on it?

We want to make sure the brake hoses don’t have any cracks and aren’t twisted.

Another problem we watch for is brake fluid leaks, which could occur at the brake calipers, brake lines, brake hoses and other places. 

During the Virginia State Inspection, our inspectors also check the parking brake and confirm that the red brake light isn’t on.

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 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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Signs of sensor problems

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Are you sensing an issue with your car? The cause may be rooted in components that can be found in several systems – sensors.

Sensor problems are a common occurrence that impact all kinds of vehicles.

Your auto repair shop might recommend replacing a sensor when you bring your car in for maintenance or have someone look into a problem.

What do sensors do?

Sensors play their own special part in how cars operate.

Simply put – sensors are your readers. Vehicles are made up of many sensors, which pass on information to computers.

They can be found in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), fuel system, cooling system, anti-lock braking system (ABS), steering system, engine and other places. 

Certain cars come with brake pad wear sensors or cam sensors. Those that use Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) may have back up sensors.

Sensors can provide you with a variety of feedback, including telling you if your tires are low, detecting objects that are behind a vehicle, sharing how quickly a wheel spins, and noting if a seat has an occupant. 

What can cause sensor problems?

Like other components, sensors can go bad and need to be replaced. 

This could be the result of normal wear and tear. However, there may be other problems at play.

They include fluids as well as connector problems. Broken or chafed wires and corrosion buildup are other possibilities.

ABS wheel speed sensors sit in the knuckle. Sometimes, you’ll think a sensor is bad when really corrosion is collecting on the wheel speed sensor, causing it to move away from the tone ring.

What are signs of a bad sensor?

How can you tell when you have a bad sensor? The short answer is warning lights.

Check engine light on a GMC Sierra
Check engine light on a GMC Sierra.

A lot of times, when sensors go bad, they trigger dashboard lights, such as:

  • ABS light
  • Airbag light
  • Check engine light
  • TPMS light
  • Traction control light

Most drivers will notice these lights. However, depending on the system and sensor, there are going to be different signs.

For example, crankshaft sensors might cause your car to stall or not start.

If something is wrong with a wheel speed sensor, the ABS light could turn on or the system may feel funny.

A bad occupant sensor is a possible culprit behind the airbag light.

The check engine light may appear if there are oxygen sensor issues. These sensors can throw off the fuel trim, as well.

Meanwhile, TPMS sensors with a bad battery or circuit board may prompt a TPMS light.

How do we diagnose sensor problems?

How do we figure out if there’s a sensor problem? Through diagnostic testing.

If a customer notices a light or that their vehicle doesn’t seem to be running right, we perform diagnostics to determine the cause.

We start with any observations a driver has noticed, like a dashboard light turning on or an abnormal driving condition.

This process includes a visual inspection and checking for any codes. Our technicians also complete test drives and use information provided by the driver to narrow down their search.

The exact steps we take when conducting diagnostic testing will differ among the warning lights and which road manners appear. 

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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Airbag light: Reasons why it turns on

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Your vehicle’s dashboard houses many warning lights. 

Some may be more familiar to drivers, like the check engine light or tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light. 

Others – such as the airbag light – might not appear as often. However, they are still worth paying attention to.

The airbag system is an important safety measure for motorists and those riding with them. If the airbag light illuminates, it can indicate that something isn’t optimal. 

Airbag light causes

How is the airbag system set up?

You have your airbag computer module and each airbag that deploys is called a module. The system is also made up of connectors, seat sensors, and seat belt buckles.

The good thing about airbag restraint systems is that the smallest flaw will trigger the airbag light.

Here are some hidden problems that can prompt the light to appear:

  • Bad occupant sensor
  • Problems with the airbag module
  • Airbag clock spring failing
  • A wire is broken
  • Seat belt buckle resistor going bad
  • Auxiliary battery
  • Connector issues
Nissan Murano airbag light flashing.
Nissan Murano airbag light flashing

The airbag light may show up if a sensor is malfunctioning. One of them is the occupant sensor, which caused the airbag light to start flashing on a Nissan Murano. This sensor was built into the lower cushion and seat control assembly.

It’s also possible that the seat belt buckle’s resistor has failed.

Another reason why the warning light turns on is that your vehicle needs a new airbag module due to water damage.

Problems might occur with the airbag clock spring, as well. This component connects the steering wheel and airbag. Sometimes, it can go bad.

Broken wires and the auxiliary battery on European vehicles are other culprits that may prompt the airbag light to come on.

The symbol doesn’t always mean that an item needs to be replaced. Even something getting underneath the seats could mess up a connector, and we just need to go in and clean it up.

Diagnosing airbag lights

If your airbag light appears, have an automotive professional make sure that all parts of this safety feature are working correctly.

What does this look like? Our airbag light diagnostic process begins with a code scan. 

The next step is making sure the battery, contacts and charging system are in good working order. If the airbag system notices that the voltage is bad or below what it should be, it’s going to trigger a problem because it doesn’t have the proper voltage to operate the system.

Depending on where the code leads us, we would go to that airbag component and check the power and ground at the connector. There is going to be a spec for ohms of resistance on the part. 

An airbag simulator can be plugged into that component if it’s accessible. If you plug the part into where the fault is and it goes away, then you’ve isolated the problem.

Diagnostics could mean a return visit for drivers. Sometimes, before going down the diagnostic testing trail we will clear the light and send customers on their way to see if it reappears.

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.