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Engine misfire on a Mini Cooper

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

If your car isn’t performing like it usually does, it could be the victim of an engine misfire.

When a vehicle doesn’t have the correct amount of air and fuel, it can result in a misfire.

Some misfire symptoms include a car running rough or struggling to accelerate. You might notice the check engine light turn on, too.

Many culprits can lie behind engine misfires.

To name a few possibilities, there could be something wrong with a valve, a sensor problem, or parts that have become worn out.

The reason may not be discovered through a visual inspection. Sometimes, a little detective work is needed to find the cause.

What caused an engine misfire on a Mini Cooper?

A Mini Cooper was brought into our auto repair shop because the check engine light turned on and it felt as though it was misfiring.

When one of our technicians checked the spark plug on cylinder 3, it was wet with gas. 

Wet spark plug on Mini Cooper.
Wet spark plug on Mini Cooper

An engine misfire was found on cylinders 1 and 3, and we moved the ignition coils from cylinder 3 to cylinder 4 and from cylinder 1 to cylinder 2. The misfire went to cylinder 4 and stayed on cylinder 3. The spark plug on cylinder 3 was wet again.

We performed a compression test on all four cylinders, and they were around 170 pounds per square inch (PSI).

Using a camera to look into the cylinders, we saw that cylinders 3 and 4 were wet. The fuel injector wasn’t spraying properly, which was causing the misfire.

To solve the problem, we replaced the spark plugs, ignition coils and fuel injectors.

How do you fix a misfire?

If you think your car is misfiring, you will want to bring it to a trustworthy mechanic or autoshop for diagnostic testing.

How we fix misfires depends on the diagnostic. You have several components that can cause a car to misfire.

Codes are a starting point and will determine what we do to diagnose the vehicle.

A variety of tools may be used during this process, including scan tools and cameras.

If the problem is internal, cameras allow us to take a look at the pistons.

With multimeters, we can check for poor voltage to and from the computer and to and from the secondary ignition. This tool is also used to look into the fuel injectors.

Occasionally, we will use a node light that lights up when the ignition coil is working.

On rare occasions, we might need to focus on the mechanical side and look at the timing.

Is it OK to drive with a misfire?

No, you should not drive a vehicle that has an engine misfiring. 

If the problem is ignored, it may lead to additional repairs and unsafe driving situations. 

Engine misfires could cause damage to the internals of the motor and the catalytic converter. 

You also run the risk of your car stalling. Poor performance on the highway can be dangerous for drivers, their passengers, and others on the road.

When you’re not sure if it’s OK to drive a vehicle, pull over and contact an autoshop to see what they recommend.

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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What can cause overheating brakes?

In Brakes by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Typically, brake services are performed because of daily wear and tear.

The brake pads and rotors may be low, or a brake fluid exchange might be needed based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

But, from time to time, a driver will experience a brake problem that leads to a repair.

Overheating brakes is one issue we have seen.

How can you tell when your brakes are overheating?

A few signs can indicate that you have overheating brakes.

You might face performance problems when driving or notice a concerning symptom, like:

  • Brake rotors turning white
  • Car pulling while braking
  • Smoke or a smell coming from the rotors
  • Spongy brake pedal

The smell coming from the brake rotors would be a metal burning smell. We worked on a Ford where the brakes looked and smelled burnt.

Overheating brakes on Ford.
Overheating brakes on Ford

What causes overheating brakes?

How do brakes become overheated?

Overheating brakes can stem from a few different sources:

  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS) not releasing pressure correctly
  • Brake caliper pistons not going in and out
  • Brake caliper slides seizing
  • Resting a foot on the brake pedal
  • Towing heavy loads

On the Ford we mentioned earlier, one of the pistons wouldn’t release. As a result, the brake caliper dragged and the rotor became very hot.

Can you drive with overheating brakes?

If you think your brakes are overheating, you should avoid driving the vehicle and have it towed to an autoshop. 

Say you have a caliper that’s dragging on a rotor and we already know that caliper is bad. You’re already going to replace the rotor because it’s going to have run out.

Driving the car could overheat your lug nuts and wheel studs, causing damage to the threads. It can also boil the brake fluid so bad that it affects other things down the line. You’re creating heat, and when you do that metal wants to stick together.

Driving your car when you have overheating brakes would only cause more damage.

How do you fix overheated brakes?

When the brakes are overheating, an auto repair shop may recommend replacing certain components.

The Ford, for example, needed a new caliper as well as brake pads and rotors.

Nissan Maxima brake fluid exchange.
Nissan Maxima brake fluid exchange

In addition to replacing the brake parts, you would also want to service the brake fluid. Once it gets hot, it introduces moisture, and that’s a bad reaction. So, it’s important to flush the brake fluid out.

We also like to change out the soft lines when a brake caliper overheats or a pad sticks to a rotor. 

The inside of these soft lines can break down and start plugging. When this occurs, they don’t release pressure.

Do I need brake repair? 

A wide range of problems can impact your braking system.

Your car might need brake repair if you are hearing brake noises. These sounds can be anything from a grinding to a squeaking or squealing. 

The red brake light coming on and brake fluid leaks are other problems to watch for.

If it seems like something is wrong with the brake pedal or if it feels like the brakes themselves aren’t working right, you will want to have an automotive expert look into it.

With any kind of car problem, follow your instincts. If you aren’t sure if it’s safe to drive, don’t!

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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Why is my TPMS light on?

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

You may turn your car on one morning or be heading to work when you see the TPMS light appear.

As soon as you notice the dashboard light, a few questions may run through your mind. If you don’t know much about this symbol, you might wonder, “What’s that light? What does it mean?” If you know it well, the question may be “Do I have a flat?”

Whatever your familiarity level, this warning light can be concerning for those who see it.

What does the TPMS light mean?

Two types of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) can be found on vehicles today.

Some cars have direct TPMS systems where there are sensors on each wheel. Batteries and circuit boards can be found on these TPMS sensors.

There are also Indirect TPMS systems. Rather than using sensors, this setup goes based on the ride height.

The TPMS light clues you in on a few tire problems. It can mean that the tire pressure is low for one or multiple tires. This light can also indicate that something is wrong with a sensor.

What causes the TPMS light to come on?

Sensor problems: If your car features a direct TPMS system, the problem may lie with a sensor. 

It’s possible that it has a bad battery or circuit board.

Bad TPMS sensor on Hyundai Sonata.
Bad TPMS sensor on Hyundai Sonata

Flat tire: A flat tire is another common reason why the TPMS light turns on. One of your tires might have picked up a nail in your travels. 

In certain cases, tire injuries can be fixed with a patch plug. 

We aren’t able to repair tires with damage on or near the sidewall or when the punctures exceed 45 degrees.

Drop in outside temperatures: Are all of your tires low? It probably has something to do with the weather.

The pounds per square inch (PSI) tend to go down with the temperature.

How do I know if I have a flat tire?

When you have a flat, the tire pressure will normally be low for one (or a couple) of the tires – not all of them.

You could see one indicator if you take a close look at your tires. The sidewalls might be wider at the ground level.

To confirm whether it’s low, you can check the tire pressure using a tire gauge.

If you have a newer vehicle, it may come with a multi-information display that shows you the tire pressure.

Tire pressure on Toyota RAV4.
Tire pressure on Toyota RAV4

What should I do if my TPMS light appears?

Did your TPMS light make an unwelcome appearance?

The first step is ruling out the cause. Start by checking the tire pressure. You can also take it by an auto repair shop if you need help or want a little extra peace of mind.

A flat tire should be repaired or replaced.

For weather-related tire pressure problems, you will want to get your tires checked and refilled.

The appropriate tire pressure is found on the tire sidewall and driver’s side door jam.

If there’s plenty of air in your tires, a sensor could be failing. In this case, TPMS sensor replacement is needed. 

By making sure your tire pressure is where it needs to be, you help prevent your tires from wearing out too early.

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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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.