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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.

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Virginia State Inspection guidelines for tires

In Tires & Wheels by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Your car tires can significantly impact how your vehicle operates.

On rainy days and during snow storms, they affect your stopping ability and whether you hydroplane. As you travel around corners, a good set of tires can help you maintain control.

With the safety roles these items play, it’s important that we make sure they’re taken care of and replaced when the time comes.

Through the Virginia State Inspection, we can get an idea of how our tires are holding up. They can also receive a checkup if you bring your vehicle to an auto repair shop that does courtesy inspections. 

How we check tires during the Virginia State Inspection

Tire repair on Ford Focus.
Tire repair on Ford Focus

As tires age, some issues can arise. Our technicians keep an eye out for any warning signs when inspecting a car.

During the annual Virginia Safety Inspection, they look at these factors:

  • Steel chords
  • Mounting problems
  • Punctures
  • Tire tread
  • Rims
  • Age
  • Secondary rubber
  • Tire size
  • Wheels
  • Speed rating
  • Tire wear

Inspectors don’t want to see the chords or secondary rubber showing on a tire. If a tire isn’t replaced when you start to notice them, the tire can eventually blow out.

We also confirm the tires are mounted right and that they aren’t too old. It’s a good idea to change out tires when they’ve hit the 6 to 10 year mark. Cracks might start to form as they get older.

Punctures are another item the automotive technicians look for. With the amount of construction going on in Northern Virginia, it’s easy to pick up a nail. Depending on the location and angle of the injury, a flat tire can be fixed with a patch plug. Unrepairable tires should be replaced.

Tire tread depth is checked out in the Virginia State Inspection, as well. To provide the right amount of traction, the tread needs to be at least 2/32 of an inch. Tires may need to be replaced earlier, depending on the manufacturer. Many have tread wear indicators. When the tread is the same height as the tire wear indicators, it means that the tire has reached the end of its useful life.

We keep an eye out for uneven tire wear, which could indicate various issues.

Cracks in Jeep Renegade tires.
Cracks in Jeep Renegade tires

Our inspectors will examine the rims and wheels to make sure there is no damage. This includes bent or cracked wheels.

The tires on a vehicle also need to be the right size and have the correct speed rating (the maximum speed they should travel at).

Choosing the right tires

Did a mechanic or autoshop tell you it’s time to replace your tires?

If you find out that you need new ones, there are a few questions you should ask yourself:

  • What is your price range?
  • Where do you drive? What are the weather and road conditions like?
  • What kind of car do you have, and what is it used for?
  • How much is the vehicle driven?

A wide range of tires are available – each one is designed with different traits, functions, and mileage. The decision boils down to this: What meets you and your car’s needs?

Whichever tire you choose, make sure it’s a high quality option you can rely on when the going gets tough.

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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Control arms and problems that can occur

In Suspension by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Have you ever heard the term “control arm” when talking to someone about your vehicle?

This is one of various items that can be found in the suspension system. Its primary function – though it varies from car to car – is to link the frame with the steering knuckle.

Control arms feature bushings that are on the inside (the frame side). There are also ball joints located on the outside (the steering knuckle side).

Like other suspension parts, control arms eventually become worn from daily use. 

Signs that you need new control arms

How do you know when there’s a problem with this item?

Some road manners and various sounds can tell you that it’s time to replace your vehicle’s control arms.

The car might pull to one side, a symptom that could also appear when a tire alignment needs to be performed.

Lower ball joint leaking grease.
Lower ball joint leaking grease

Ball joints and control arm bushings sometimes have similar symptoms. They may create squeaking or knocking noises. Issues with these parts can also result in a crooked steering wheel and poor alignment quality.

Bushings and ball joints are considered safety items, meaning they will be looked at every time you bring your vehicle in for a Virginia Safety Inspection.

It’s important to keep in mind that if you experience one of the indicators we mentioned it doesn’t necessarily mean that something is going on with a control arm.

There’s not one way to drive a car and say, “You’ve got a control arm problem.” You would have a symptom and investigate, and it would lead you to that component.

What can cause a control arm to go bad?

Earlier, we talked about how control arms can experience normal wear and tear. It’s also possible for them to become bent due to an impact. This includes hitting potholes and curbs.

Meanwhile, control arm bushings might dry out and crack, and ball joints could bend.

Control arm wear is based on where vehicles are driven, as well.

For example, those used in coastal areas are going to have more deterioration on rubber. So the bushings and boots that hold the grease into the ball joint would more than likely take a bigger toll.

Northern climates are also going to impact those components. The salt and sand that’s spread on the roads can be incredibly corrosive.

If your auto repair shop or mechanic recommends new control arms or related items, it’s a good idea to have them replaced. 

Worn suspension parts can affect your car alignment, and bad wheel alignments could lead to premature and uneven tire wear.

We worked on a Toyota Camry that passed Virginia State Inspection. The technician reported cracking control arm bushings and ripped boots on the ball joints on the front and rear control arms. 

Even though it was a safe vehicle to drive, we suggested replacing these components. The wheel alignment will never be true if you have worn bushings or ball joints that have a shelf life.

When deciding whether you want to replace a part, consider the potential outcomes – in the case of the Toyota Camry, they were tire wear and road manners.

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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Gear shifter problems: why is my vehicle stuck in park?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When getting ready to drive your car you may have found that it struggles or refuses to move out of park.

Gear shifter problems like this can be frustrating and even alarming, especially if you have somewhere to be or it forces you to rely on a tow truck.

What causes gear shifter problems?

So, what can keep a car from shifting out of park? Here are several possible causes:

  • Ignition switch going bad
  • Sticking shift interlock solenoid
  • Brake light switch issues
  • Parking pawl
  • Open circuit on interlock solenoid
Toyota Prius push to start.
Toyota Prius push to start

Ignition switch going bad: To get the car out of park, a couple of things need to be achieved. Most vehicles have to be in the “on” or “accessory” positions, or they must be started. If your ignition switch isn’t sending that signal, it’s not going to let that interlock release.

Open circuit on interlock solenoid: The interlock solenoid having an open circuit is also a possible reason why a shifter remains in park.

Brake light switch issues: There may be a problem with the brake light switch. If this component is malfunctioning, it can impact the gear shifter. That’s because the vehicle has trouble understanding when you press on the brake pedal. 

Parking pawl: This is a tooth or pin that stops the transmission from moving, causing it to park.

Sticking shift interlock solenoid: If you’re finding it difficult to move the shifter from park, it could have something to do with the shift interlock solenoid. When it becomes stuck, you may not be able to change gears. If the solenoid is at fault, the gear shift assembly might need to be replaced.

Diagnosing shifting issues

In most cases when a gear shifter won’t come out of park, step one of the diagnostic process involves getting underneath the vehicle to see where the shift lever is. Our technicians might need to manually shift it into neutral to push it into the bay.

Then, we would need to go down the interlock tree. Older technicians are going to eliminate electricity from mechanical with the bypass. If they can use the bypass, that means the transmission will manually shift. 

Then, they can see if something is wrong with the shifter or the interlock system. Each component, including the brake switch and ignition switch, are tested separately. A lot of times, to really check the interlock system you need to remove the middle console.

This procedure can change depending on whether it’s a car, truck or four-wheel drive vehicle. That matters because of where everything is located. 

If we’re working on a vehicle where the technicians aren’t able to get underneath or reach down to shift it, the car may need to be towed into the bay. 

Gear shifter maintenance

Gear shifter problems can occur without warning.

While some issues can’t be completely avoided, basic maintenance could help. This includes keeping the shifter clean. Try not to spill soda or coffee in this area, and make sure to wipe it down every once in a while.

How you shift may also have an impact. If you slam it into gear or are being reckless, it’s going to wear it out prematurely.

If you notice the shifter has trouble coming out of park once or twice, go ahead and reach out to an automotive expert.

Sometimes, a part just breaks and it can be night and day from time to time. In most cases, however, gear shifter problems happen gradually.

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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Sources and symptoms of air conditioning leaks

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

The heat and humidity of summer is laying heavy in Northern Virginia. To combat it, many drivers are relying on their air conditioning.

If your car’s a/c system isn’t keeping up with the high temperatures, a bad part or leak could be at fault.

A/c leak causes

Air conditioning leaks can occur throughout the a/c system. Anything that holds refrigerant is subject to leaking.

Sometimes, leaks are easier to spot. Other times, however, they can be hidden.

Possible leak sources include:

  • Rubber gaskets
  • Air conditioning condenser
  • Evaporator core
  • Accumulator
  • Fittings
  • Rubber lines
  • A/c compressor
  • Expansion valves
  • Air conditioning hoses

Rubber gaskets: Gaskets eventually become fragile from daily use and are more susceptible to leaking.

Kia Rio air conditioning condenser leaking.
Kia Rio air conditioning condenser leaking

A/c condenser: Depending on the type of metal the condenser is made out of, corrosion could cause them to fail. Pinhole leaks may form from the outside or inside. Outside sources, such as weather and salt, can lead to corrosion. Problems might also stem from the type of freon and the reaction to the metal on the inside. Because the metal is much thinner, a leaking condenser can also be the result of impacts. 

Evaporator core: We worked on a Mitsubishi Outlander where ultraviolet dye was seen coming out of the evaporator drain tube. This indicated that the evaporator core was leaking.

Rubber lines and fittings: Leaks are possible on the fittings and rubber lines, which experience drastic changes in temperature.

Air conditioning hoses: An a/c leak may develop on the hose that connects the condenser and compressor. The seals connected to the condenser can go bad.

Leak indicators

Drivers may be clued in that their vehicle has an a/c leak if the air conditioning system isn’t working correctly. Low freon is one of several common causes behind a/c problems.

If an air conditioning system has been serviced correctly and tracer oil (or ultraviolet dye) was added, it will glow green. Drivers may see the dye if a leak is bad enough. For smaller leaks, special glasses or a blacklight are needed.

Smoke may be seen if the leak is fast enough. When refrigerant leaves the system, it turns into a gas because it goes from super high pressure to very low pressure.

The engine bay serves as a container. So, if it fills up with smoke, drivers may see it being released from underneath the hood. The smoke could be coming from the condenser, evaporator core, or another source. You just don’t know where until the smoke settles.

How we find air conditioning leaks

Do you or your auto repair shop think your car has an air conditioning leak? The process of finding the leak can involve several steps.

Testing Chevrolet Tahoe AC vents.
Testing Chevrolet Tahoe AC vents

If an air conditioning leak is suspected, our technicians look over the vehicle for any visible problems. 

They use an a/c machine and ultraviolet dye if no leaks are found. We add dye and oil, and then perform a recharge.

The vehicle is returned to the customer, who drives it for a while and returns it to our shop to see if the dye appears.

On cars that take R-1234yf, nitrogen and a sniffer are utilized.

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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What can cause blower motor failure?

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

When it feels like an oven outside, having a reliable stream of cool air flowing in your car is vital. Especially if you live or work in Northern Virginia and travel long distances.

The blower motor sends this sweet relief through the vents. If the part is malfunctioning, little or no air can make it to you and your passengers.

Bad blower motor signs

Is air not coming out of the vents when the air conditioning is turned on? Or is this a problem you’re experiencing off and on? The blower motor might be the culprit.

Here are common signs that this component needs to be replaced:

  • Poor air flow out of the vents
  • Rumbling, roaring or tapping noises
  • Vibration or humming sound

The main symptom of a bad blower motor is the air flow and air flow control. It can also make noise.

The motor is on a wheel. When the part goes bad and starts wobbling, you may hear a rumbling, roaring or tapping sound.

A vibration or a really loud humming noise is possible, too. This could mean that there’s an electrical problem or the motor isn’t balanced.

Blower motors have multiple speed settings. If one of them doesn’t work, it might be the motor or the resistor for the switch. 

Problems with the speed selection are going to be more on the resistor side, but that part goes hand and hand with the blower motor. A lot of times if one of them fails, the other goes with it.

Reasons why the motor goes bad

Time, wear and tear can cause this component to go bad. 

Blower motors are all sealed units. The only way you can prevent blower motor problems is making sure the cabin air filter is clean.

Over time, the cabin air filter collects dirt, twigs, leaves and other debris. If any of those items get through the filter, it can weigh down on the blower motor. Putting off cabin air filter replacement could cause the motor to work overtime and – eventually – fail. It’s also a good idea to clean out the cowling area regularly.

Resistor connector and blower motor connector melted together.
Resistor connector and blower motor connector melted together

Wiring problems can arise at times. You have your control panel. From there, you have a wiring harness that goes from the control panel to the resistor. The resistor is attached to the motor. You have a small area in the dashboard that has wires. 

However, the blower motor is very protected and secure. More than likely it’s a unit problem, rather than a communication issue.

The motor and resistor needed to be replaced on a Kia Sorento.

When investigating why the motor wasn’t working, we found that the resistor connector and blower motor connector were melted together.

A bad ground or a lack of resistance may lead to this issue.

Blower motor connector and connector inlet burnt together.
Blower motor connector and connector inlet burnt together

In the case of a Kia Forte, the blower motor connector and connection inlet had burnt with one another.

Rodents could bring their own challenges. You have vents that go into your evaporator box. Sometimes, rodents can get in and chew wires or set up a nest in the cabin air filter.

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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Belt replacement: Why is it important?

In Vehicle Maintenance by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Drive belt wear is a normal part of vehicle use.

Our technicians look for belt problems during their courtesy checks.

Eventually, belts may develop cracks or become loose. Leaks are another issue we want to keep an eye out for and address.

If your car has some sort of leak, the fluid can get onto the belt and cause damage. This occurred on a BMW 535xi.

Broken drive belt on BMW 535xi

On the BMW, an oil leak led to the drive belt breaking.

When we pulled the crank pulley, we found that the belt was sucked up into the timing case and destroyed the front crank seal. 

Drive belt in a BMW timing case.
Drive belt in a BMW timing case

There was an excessive amount of belt material in the timing case. The Master Technician who was working on the car recommended replacing the timing chains, guides and sprockets. We also needed to pull the oil pan to check the oil pickup and oil pump.

Additionally, the belt was wrapped so tightly in the a/c compressor that it wasn’t going to come out. So, we would have to install a new compressor, as well.

A broken drive belt isn’t the only possible result of leaks. They can cause the serpentine belt to slip, too. This could keep the parts it surrounds from running properly.

Why you shouldn’t put off belt replacement

The drive belt getting sucked up into the engine when it breaks is a common problem on certain BMW models.

BMW drivers should listen to their engine noise. Any kind of belt chirp or humming noise from the front end of the engine could indicate that bearings are going bad.

It’s a good idea to resolve oil leaks early on. Drive belts are just one component that leaks can impact.

If an auto repair shop tells you that fluid is dripping on your vehicle’s drive belt or the belt is worn, don’t wait to have it replaced.

Belt material sucked into a BMW engine.
Belt material sucked into a BMW engine

We recommend changing timing belts and serpentine belts if they are 10 years old or the vehicle has hit 100,000 miles.

Belt replacement may not seem like a major concern, but this service can help you avoid expensive consequences.

For the BMW 535xi, it could have saved the driver thousands of dollars in repairs.

Taking your car to a reliable auto repair shop

You can avoid a lot of unexpected issues by taking your car to a  trustworthy and dependable auto repair shop.

Finding a place that looks over different items and gives you an update on the vehicle’s health can help you become aware of and plan for future maintenance needs.

It’s important to work with automotive technicians who know what they’re doing and won’t cut corners. During belt replacement, for example, sometimes related parts need to be changed with it. 

Using high quality components that are going to last a while is vital, too. Not only does this ensure your safety but it prevents additional repairs.

You should also beware of shops that don’t charge for diagnostic testing. Those are typically places that will throw parts at a car and won’t take the time to look into the problem.

A shop charging diagnostic fees is a good thing because they will remove the belt and check the pulleys to make sure there isn’t an underlying cause.

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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Rattling sound heard while driving

In Automotive Diagnostics by HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire

Squeaks, groans, knocking, roars, clunks, grinding, squeals … As your car experiences wear from daily use, noises may begin to pop up.

These sounds can come from a variety of places, including your suspension, steering system, engine, tires or air conditioning system.

Rattling is one problem drivers might mention when dropping off their vehicle. Sometimes, our technicians notice it as they perform a digital inspection or test drive.

We worked on a Toyota Sienna that had a rattling sound. Diagnostic testing would be needed to determine the culprit.

What can cause a rattling sound?

Different sources may result in rattling noises. The symptom can be related to these components:

  • Air conditioning compressor
  • A/c compressor clutch
  • Belt pulleys
  • Brakes
  • Control arms
  • Rack bushings
  • Sway bar bushings
  • Sway bar end links
  • Tie rod ends
  • Timing chains

Air conditioning compressor: Rattling might indicate that the car has a bad a/c compressor or the a/c compressor clutch.

Brake hardware.
Brake hardware

Brakes: You could hear this noise if brake parts are loose or need to be lubricated. The brake hardware may also be broken.

Sway bar end links and bushings: Worn sway bar end links and sway bushings are potential causes too.

Timing chains: Loose timing chains may create rattling sounds, as well. This is usually the case when they’re tapping against the guides and tensioners.

It’s possible that other parts – like control arms, rack bushings and tie rod ends – have become worn overtime and need to be replaced.

The culprit behind rattling noises can also depend on certain vehicles. On Hyundais and Kias, there is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for the steering coupler causing rattling in the steering wheel. 

Sometimes, the source isn’t related to a repair or part going bad. For example, it’s possible that items have gotten caught in the a/c vents.

Tracking down rattling noises

A rattling sound could take you down multiple avenues. When this indicator appears, our automotive technicians perform noise diagnostics to pinpoint the system it’s associated with and the specific culprit.

To narrow down the search, they inspect for any obvious problems, such as loose, worn or broken items. Then, they take information from the customer – like whether they hear it when braking, using the air conditioning system, going over bumps, or accelerating – and try to recreate the problem.

Cars make many sounds and these noises could come across differently to you than others. You might need to ride with a technician to help them determine what you’re hearing.

Every situation is going to be different and the specific steps taken for each car will vary.

Warning lights

Traction control light and vehicle stability control light.
Vehicle stability control and traction control light

Sometimes, warning lights are associated with the problem. 

For example, if there’s something wrong with the steering or suspension, the ABS light or traction control light may turn on. Rattling that comes from the engine could result in a check engine light, ABS light or traction control light.

So, providing extra details when communicating with a repair shop (even if you feel like this information doesn’t matter) can help them figure out what’s going on in a timely manner.

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.