How to Choose the Perfect Car Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having trouble starting your car can be a sign of a dying battery. But how do you ensure that you choose the perfect replacement? The world of car batteries can be confusing, with numerous brands and specifications to consider.

Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new behind the wheel, this step-by-step guide simplifies the process of choosing the perfect car battery. We delve into the intricacies of car battery replacement and maintenance, ensuring that your next car battery is the ideal match for your vehicle’s needs. Stay tuned, and prepare to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

Call 317-475-1846 When You Need Car Battery Maintenance in Indianapolis
Call 317-475-1846 When You Need Car Battery Maintenance in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding Car Batteries

Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand the basics of car batteries. These devices store energy and provide an electrical charge to start your vehicle. They also power the headlights, stereo, and other electronic components while the engine is off. Car batteries come in different shapes and sizes, with each serving a specific purpose. The most common type of car battery is the lead-acid battery, which uses a chemical reaction to generate electricity. These batteries have two terminals, a positive and negative, with electrolytes in the middle that help create an electrical charge.

Determining Your Vehicle’s Battery Requirements

The first step in choosing the perfect car battery is determining your vehicle’s battery requirements. This information can typically be found in the car’s manual or on the existing battery. It includes the battery group size, reserve capacity, and cold-cranking amps (CCA). The group size refers to the physical dimensions of the battery, while reserve capacity measures how long it can supply a continuous stream of power. CCA is a measure of how well your battery performs in cold temperatures. Make sure to choose a battery that meets or exceeds these specifications, as a mismatched battery can lead to performance issues and potential damage to your vehicle.

Considering Different Automotive Battery Brands and Types

With so many brands offering car batteries, it’s essential to consider the reputation of the manufacturer. You want a battery from a trusted brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability. It’s also crucial to consider the type of battery you need. While lead-acid batteries are the most common, there are also gel-cell and AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries available. These types offer benefits such as longer life spans and better performance in extreme temperatures but usually come at a higher cost.

Factoring in Your Driving Habits

Another important aspect to consider is your driving habits. If you use your vehicle for short trips or infrequently, a battery with a high reserve capacity may be a better choice. This allows the battery to maintain its charge even when the engine is off for extended periods. On the other hand, if you have a longer commute or frequently drive in extreme temperatures, a battery with a higher CCA would be more suitable. It’s crucial to choose a battery that aligns with your driving habits to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Maintaining Your Car Battery

Proper maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your car battery. Regularly check the battery for any signs of corrosion or buildup on the terminals, which can hinder its performance. Clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water if necessary. It’s also essential to keep your battery charged, especially during periods of inactivity. Consider investing in a trickle charger or driving your vehicle regularly to prevent the battery from draining completely.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect car battery can seem overwhelming, but armed with this step-by-step guide, you can make an informed decision that meets your vehicle’s specific requirements. Remember to determine your vehicle’s battery needs, consider different brands and types, factor in your driving habits, and properly maintain your battery for optimal performance. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car always starts smoothly and reliably.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your battery or alternator issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana for alternators and car batteries. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How to Diagnose and Solve Common Auto Electrical Problems

How to Diagnose and Solve Common Auto Electrical Problems

If you’re a car enthusiast or car owner, you know the importance of having a car that runs smoothly and efficiently. But when auto electrical problems arise, it can be both frustrating and confusing trying to diagnose and solve them. From faulty wiring to dead batteries, car electrical issues can range from minor inconveniences to major safety hazards.

Fortunately, with some basic knowledge about car electrical systems and the right tools for the job, many common auto electrical problems are easily fixed. This blog post will cover how to diagnose and solve common auto electrical problems quickly and safely so you can get back on the road in no time!

Call 317-475-1846 For Auto Electrical Repair in Indianapolis Today!
Call 317-475-1846 For Auto Electrical Repair in Indianapolis Today!

The 101 on Car Electrical Systems and Their Typical Issues

To start, it’s important to get familiar with car electrical systems. This includes understanding how the car’s battery works, and the different types of wiring used in car electrical systems. It also helps to understand basic car electrical principles such as voltage and current, which are both measures of the flow of electricity through a circuit.

The next step is to diagnose car electrical problems. This starts with identifying the source of the problem, which could be anything from a worn or broken part to a loose wire connection. You can use a multi-meter to check for voltage and current at different points in the car’s electrical system. This will help you narrow down where the issue lies.

Once you’ve identified the source of the car electrical problem, it’s time to start solving it. This will require some basic car electrical repair knowledge and tools. Some common car electrical repairs involve replacing faulty wiring or switches, reconnecting loose connections, and recharging or replacing car batteries.

Finally, make sure to properly maintain car electrical systems. This includes checking car battery levels and wiring connections regularly, as well as replacing any worn out parts or components. Doing so will help you avoid car electrical problems in the future and ensure your car is running smoothly and efficiently for years to come!

Get Ahead of Auto Electrical Issues With Good Car Care

By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose and solve common auto electrical problems with ease. With the right knowledge and tools, car electrical systems can be easily maintained and repaired for a safe and smooth car-ownership experience.

Got car electrical problems? Don’t worry, we can help! Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 to get started on diagnosing and repairing your car’s auto electrical issues, quickly and at a price you can afford. We look forward to helping you get back on the road in no time!

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These 6 Car Malfunctions Point to the Alternator

There usually isn’t a lot of talk about alternators when it comes to automotive maintenance and repair. Yet, you simply cannot operate your vehicle without a properly functioning alternator. But how do you know if your alternator is having problems? There are certain signs to look for; 6 car malfunctions, specifically.

If your car or truck is showing one or more of these malfunctions, it could indicate that your ride needs alternator repair.

Alternator Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Alternator Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

What Does an Alternator Do?

The alternator in your vehicle plays a vital role in its overall operation and performance. Basically, the alternator supplies your vehicle with electricity. This electricity is used to power all sorts of mechanical systems and electronics within your car, including the head and taillights, interior cabin lights, heating and cooling, onboard computer systems, GPS systems, stereo, radio, dashboard operating systems, and much more. Without a properly functioning alternator, you will start to notice problems with one or more of these systems within your vehicle. This is how you can look out for the signs of alternator problems.

Oftentimes, people confuse alternator problems with car battery problems because they both supply vehicles with power. However, the alternator is responsible for charging the car battery. So, if you are experiencing electricity-related problems in your vehicle, check your car battery first. If your car battery checks out, you can safely assume your alternator needs a turn in the repair shop.

Common Signs of a Malfunctioning Car Alternator

➀ Electrical Problems

As mentioned, if you start to notice problems with any of the electrical or computerized systems within your vehicle, you might want to assume that it’s the alternator. But first, always check on the car battery to be sure.

➁ Dead Battery

If your car battery checks out in the moment, but then later fails on you, and then continues to do this over and over again, your alternator could be the underlying culprit. If you find that your jump starting your car on a regular basis or your car keeps dying while out on the road, you may need to replace alternator.

➂ Dimming Lights

Because alternators supply vehicles with a source of power, one of the first indications of alternator malfunction is dimming lights. Headlights, taillights, and interior cabin lights can appear dimmer or weak, and may even flicker. If you notice this in your vehicle, it is important to have your car battery and alternator checked out right away.

➃ Strange Noises

A common problem with alternators actually stems from a loose serpentine belt. If the serpentine belt is stretched out, which commonly happens with age, it can lose its ability to spin the alternator pulley effectively.

If you hear squealing sounds coming from your car when you started it, it could be an indication that your serpentine belt is defective and has alternator to lose charge. If you hear grinding sounds or growling noises, it can be an indication that your internal bearings have corroded or deteriorated.

➄ Illuminated Warning Lights on the Dash

If you see any warning lights on your dashboard light up, such as your “ALT” light, battery light, or your Check Engine Light, you might want to take a look at the alternator. This is especially true if you get both the battery light and the check engine light on at the same time. If you just get the car battery light, check your battery to see if it still has charge. If it is not your car battery, take it into the shop to have alternator checked out.

➅ Engine Stalling

If your engine is repeatedly stalling when you start or drive your vehicle, it is a telltale indication of an alternator malfunction. The fuel injectors are simply not getting the power they need to fuel the engine and keep it going. This situation typically leads back to the alternator.

Are you looking for a trusted Indy auto shop that can repair your alternator at a price you can afford? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for engine repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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What You Need to Know About Serpentine Belt Replacement

What You Need to Know About Serpentine Belt Replacement

A serpentine belt is not a tacky snakeskin wardrobe accessory. It is a vital automotive part that helps power your car’s engine. If you have been driving your vehicle for several years, but have never had the serpentine belt replaced, it could be time now. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about serpentine belts, including information on serpentine belt replacement, maintenance, and repair.

Serpentine Belt Replacement Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Serpentine Belt Replacement Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Serpentine Belt Operation and Design

A serpentine belt is a long belt inside the engine that winds around various pulleys, thus aligning them with the motion of the engine’s crankshaft. As the serpentine belt goes round, it causes the pulleys to turn, which sends power to many automotive components within a vehicle, including the air conditioning, alternator, power steering pump, and water pump.

If you have an older vehicle, keep in mind that they are known to require serpentine belt replacement sooner than modern-day vehicles do. Consult with your local Indianapolis auto repair shop to determine a routine car maintenance plan to support proper engine efficiency and performance.

Common Signs of a Failing Serpentine Belt

Although serpentine belts are manufactured to last for many years, they do need replaced every now and then. You will know if your serpentine belt needs to be replaced by looking for certain automotive performance issues. For instance, if you are having trouble with your air conditioning, car battery, or dimming lights in your car, it could be due to the serpentine belt not allowing the pulleys to send power to these automotive components.

Here’s What To Look For:

➾ Squealing Noise From Steering Wheel
➾ Battery Warning Light on Dash
➾ Temperature Warning Light on Dash
➾ Check Engine Light on Dash
➾ Sluggish or Heavy Steering
➾ Broken Air Conditioning

Serpentine Belt Replacement and Costs

Most automotive manufacturers recommend replacing serpentine belt at 60,000 miles; however, many vehicles can drive up to 100,000 miles without serpentine belt replacement work. The most important element of serpentine belt replacement is catching the need for replacement before the serpentine belt breaks.

Early diagnosis of engine problems is important, which is why routine car maintenance is critical for your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity. Your Indianapolis IN mechanic will be able to spot the need for serpentine belt work before it can break down on you. Not only can the save you a lot of time and stress, but it can also save you money.

The cost to replace a serpentine belt will depend on the price of the auto part itself and labor. Serpentine bells usually run anywhere from $25-$75, depending on the retailer and the make and model of the vehicle. Labor to remove and replace the serpentine belt can range anywhere from $100 to $200 or so. So, you can expect to pay anywhere between $200 and $300, depending on your make and model vehicle and the complexity of the job.

Are you looking for a trusted automotive mechanic for serpentine belt replacement in the Indy area? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed engine repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

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ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846
ASE Certified Mechanics Indianapolis 317-475-1846

Why Did My Brake Warning Light Come On in My Car?

Although the check engine light is the usual suspect, your vehicle is equipped with all sorts of other indicator lamps and warning sensors. One such indicator lamp that can switch on when something’s off is your car’s brake warning light. Continue reading to learn more about brake warning lights, including why yours is illuminated and what you can do to resolve the underlying issue.

Car Brake Service Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Car Brake Service Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Brake Warning Lights Versus Bulb Checks

have most vehicles come with one brake warning light on the dashboard, but other vehicles may have to break warning lights on the dashboard. When you first turned the ignition in your car, all life in your dashboard should flash as a test, also referred to as a bulb check, to ensure that the electrical system is operating properly. So, do not panic if you see the break warning light appear as you start your car.

Keep in mind that if the break warning light does not illuminate when you start your car, you could have a bulb out. In this case, you would simply need to bring your car into local Indianapolis automotive repairs shop to have the break warning light bulb replaced. However, if the break warning light remains illuminated as you drive, it is important to diagnose the issue.

Top 2 Causes for an Illuminated Car Brake Warning Light

So, why is your brake warning light on right now? Well, it could be due to a variety of brake-related reasons. However, the two primary reasons why brake warning lights come on have to do with the emergency brake and brake fluid pressure.

Emergency Brake – If the emergency brake is on in your vehicle, your car sensor system will illuminate the break warning light. All you have to do to resolve this problem is to turn your emergency brake off. However, if the brake illumination continues it could be due to brake fluid and pressure problems.

Brake Fluid and Pressure – If one half of your braking system loses pressure, your brake indicator lamp will switch on. Solving this issue is more complex than turning off the emergency brake. In most cases, you’ll need to bring your car into a licensed Indianapolis mechanic to have the issue diagnosed and resolved.

Car Brake Pressure Repair is an Automotive Emergency

If your car’s braking system is low on pressure, it is not safe to drive your vehicle. If you do drive your vehicle this condition, it is important to use the emergency brake when you do park the car. Brake pressure should be equal on both sides of your braking system, so if one side loses a bit of pressure, it can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Brake pressure loss typically occurs as a result of a leak in the system or low hydraulic fluid.

Anti-Lock Braking System Lights

Most modern-day vehicles are designed with anti-lock braking systems, which appears as a “ABS” on the dashboard. If your anti-lock braking system light illuminates on your car’s dashboard, it could mean that there is an underlying problem. When this happens, you are still safe to drive your vehicle, but your anti-lock braking will not work. It is still important to bring your car into a local Indianapolis auto shop to have it repaired.

Are you looking for a skilled and qualified mechanic to help you with your automotive brake maintenance and service needs? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana at economy-friendly prices. We offer coupons and discounts, year round!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Why You Should Get an Auto AC Tune Up Right Now

Spring is already bringing the heat, but Summer is especially known to get hot. Is your vehicle’s air conditioning system ready to take on the job of keeping you cool during your lengthy commutes? Right now is the perfect time of year to get your car’s AC tuned up and ready to go!

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of a properly working air conditioner in your car, and how to ensure yours stays in the best condition all Spring and Summer long.

Indianapolis Car AC Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Car AC Repair and Service 317-475-1846

The Importance of a Functional Car Air Conditioner

Driving in hot and humid conditions without a properly-functioning AC can cause drivers to be distracted, irritable, and extremely uncomfortable. Not only can this jeopardize safety and can be poor for the health, but it is also simply unbearable to withstand. Drivers and passengers can experience heavy sweating, dizziness, and fatigue if caught in traffic during high temperatures, and can even suffer from mild cases of heat stroke. So, for this reason, you need routine auto air conditioner service to ensure your vehicle’s AC is dependable and fully-functional.

Furthermore, it is vital to keep in mind that a refrigerant leak is damaging to the ozone layer. Not only does a properly-functioning AC system save on gas mileage, but it is also environmentally friendly. If you suspect that your vehicle’s air conditioner is losing coolness or not functioning properly, it is strongly encouraged to take it to your trusted auto repair center for professional inspection and service. They have the knowledge and resources to solve your vehicle problems and get you back on the road fast.

What to Expect From Auto AC Tune Up Service

An auto AC system is designed to control the interior climate of a vehicle, including temperature and humidity, and comes in many different forms depending on the make and model of the car. A licensed automotive mechanic is the only authority that has the knowledge and equipment to deliver accurate air conditioner service. Routine auto AC service is a critical part of preventative maintenance for your vehicle. Not only does it provide the proper inspections and replacements necessary for every summer, it prevents future breakdowns and costly repairs.

When you get auto AC service, your mechanic will begin by implementing a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle’s air conditioning system. The check the pressures to test operation, refrigerant charge, and outlet temperatures. If your vehicle’s AC system is low on refrigerant, the mechanic will implement a leak test to locate the source of a leak if there is one in the system. If found, leaks are fixed and if the states allow it, the refrigerant is re-filled. The mechanic will then check for refrigerant cross-contamination and the compressor’s drive belt and tension.

Are you looking for a trusted and affordable automotive mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana, but at neighborhood prices!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Top 4 Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start

So, you get into your car, already late for whatever it is you are on your way to, but the engine won’t seem to turn over. Although there are millions of things that can go wrong in vehicles, there are 4 in particular that tend to be the most common culprits. Fortunately, they can all be repaired, and some only take a few minutes of your own time to fix!

Continue below to learn why your car will not start, and what how to determine exactly what the issue might be.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Your Car Will Not Start? Here’s What Might Be the Problem:

Your vehicle is designed with various electrical and mechanical systems that can breakdown or experience interruptions in performance. However, when your car won’t start, or the engine refuses to turn over, you can likely chalk it up to 4 essential auto parts: the alternator, battery, starter, or fuel tank. Of course, it can also be a combination of breakdowns and failures, including among these four car parts. Here is some information that will help you determine what and why for each one:

Alternator

If your alternator is faulty, or is breaking down, you can expect your car to have problems starting. It is common to experience issues with the battery and starter when your car’s alternator is bad, making it more challenging to detect the underlying issue without a licensed mechanic providing the diagnosis. In fact, the signs of a failing alternator are very similar to a dying car battery, including electrical flickering and dimming lights. If your alternator is bad, you will need alternator replacement.  

Battery

A dead or nearly dead car battery is a common cause behind a car that won’t start. You can try to use jumper cables to re-power your car’s battery; but if that doesn’t work, it is likely that you need a whole new battery. Fortunately, car batteries are not expensive, and they are easy to maintain for many years. If your car battery is new, you might be dealing with a failing starter instead.

Starter

As just mentioned, if your car won’t start and it is definitely not a dead battery, it could be a broken starter. Starters are designed to receive electrical currents from the battery and convert them into larger energy in order to power the engine. If it is failing, it cannot do its job, therefore, your car will not start. If your car is making no sounds or vibrations when you turn the key, it is a common sign that the starter is broken.

Fuel Tank

In the best case scenario is that your fuel tank is empty. In fact, the most common reason why people’s cars will not start is simply because they are out of gasoline! Check your fuel tank regularly, and be sure to keep some extra fuel at your home in case you need an emergency top-off to get you to the nearest gas station. In a worse scenario, your car could have a leak or crack in the fuel tank, which will require immediate auto repair.

Are you having problems starting your car? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for auto repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We work on both domestic and foreign vehicles, and specialize in major engine work. Request a free estimate, today.

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Frequently Asked Questions About Speedometer Repair

Your vehicle’s speedometer is arguably one of the most important safety and operational components since it is the component that displays the speed at which your car is traveling. When your speedometer begins to malfunction, it is vital that you have it serviced and repaired as soon as possible. Not only can inaccurate speedometer readings put you at risk of being pulled over for violating the speed limit, but it can put you and other drivers in grave danger.

Continue below to learn more about speedometers by reviewing these frequently asked questions.

Indianapolis Speedometer Repair
Indianapolis Speedometer Repair 317-475-1846

Speedometer Repair FAQS

Why Did My Speedometer Stop Working?

The most common reason why speedometers break down or malfunction is due to electrical issues within the vehicle. However, it could also be a wide range of other reasons, such as a defective speed sensor, engine control unit (ECU), wiring, or fuses. To diagnose a speedometer malfunction, your mechanic will use a few methods, starting with an examination of the sensor, and then all potentially related wiring and fuses. If these are not the issue, they will use a scanner to read the error code. This is often done to read Check Engine Lights, which they will also do to determine a problem with a speedometer.

Is it Dangerous to Drive With a Broken Speedometer?

Driving a car with a broken or faulty speedometer is very dangerous. Not only can it put you in danger, but it can also jeopardize the safety of your passengers, and other drivers and pedestrians on the road. As for the law, you can also be ticketed for operating a vehicle with a broken speedometer, which can cost you fines and court fees, and even risk suspending your drivers’ license. Seek immediate speedometer auto repair in Indianapolis as soon as possible to avoid these dangers and risks.

How are Speedometers Repaired?

Most speedometer repairs are straightforward, merely requiring an ECU replacement, fuse replacement, or trouble code clearing. Other times, to repair a speedometer, a mechanic must install a new speed sensor.

How Much Does Speedometer Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your speedometer depends on a wide range of variables, from the make and model of your car, to the severity of malfunction or defect, the auto repair shop you choose, and much more. On average, you can expect speedometer repairs to range anywhere between $200 and $500 in price. Some warranties cover this type of repair, which would eliminate the financial liability altogether. Keep in mind that in the case that it is covered under warranty, you will likely be limited to dealership mechanics only.

Where Can I Get Affordable and Fast Speedometer Repair in Indianapolis?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana for broken speedometers, check engine lights, and more. Our licensed mechanics have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Do I Have to Repair a Check Engine Light?

When that check engine light comes on, the panic starts to set in. “How much is this going to cost me?” is the only thought that runs through your head until you take your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection. But while you wait for the diagnosis, there is no need to worry prematurely; not all check engine light warnings are serious. In fact, some are so minor, car owners ask themselves whether or not it’s even worth fixing. On the other hand, some are so easy to fix, you can manage it on your own, and at no cost.

If your check engine light is on, continue reading to learn why it might have illuminated and what your options are for repair.

Indianapolis Check Engine Light Repair
Indianapolis Check Engine Light Repair 317-475-1846

Check Engine Light Warnings

A check engine light is also referred to as a malfunctioning indicator lamp (MIL). They are designed to detect mechanical and electrical issues within a vehicle, and then illuminate upon detection. Once your check engine light comes on, your first step is to get a diagnostic reading. You can purchase a check engine light code reader online or at your local auto supply store, however, it is better to have it done by a trained mechanic who can help you understand the issue and your options for repair.

Minor Automotive Issues

Some of the most common causes for a check engine light to illuminate are somewhat minor problems. For example, a top cause is a loose or open gas cap. Simply forgetting to close your gas cap can cause your check engine light to illuminate, so be sure to always check this first before heading to your local auto shop. Another common cause for a check engine light to come on is low tire pressure. Not all vehicle’s are designed with a malfunctioning indicator lamp that will detect this issue, but most newer models do. Simply tend to your tire as needed, and the check engine light will turn off.

Moderate to Major Automotive Issues

The check engine light is also designed to detect more serious issues with your vehicle. If the minor causes are not applicable to your situation, it could be a moderate to major automotive issue. Some of the most common moderate to major issues detected by a malfunctioning indicator lamp include:

Your vehicle needs a new oxygen (o2) sensor.

Your vehicle needs a new mass airflow sensor (MAF).

Your vehicle needs new spark plugs or plug wires.

The catalytic converter is damaged or defective.

To Repair or Not to Repair

It is important to talk to your trusted Indianapolis mechanic for advice on car care and automotive repair. If your check engine light came on due to a minor issue, you won’t need auto repair service. However, if it came on due to something more serious, the issue must be repaired or corrected in order to safety and efficiency of your vehicle. Even if you feel that your car is operating just fine, you should still have it inspected, as some problems can start small and worsen, overtime.

Need an Auto Mechanic?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis check engine light services you can trust. Our ASE certified car mechanics provide a wide range of automotive services for all make and model vehicles, foreign and domestic. Schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime. Don’t forget to ask us about our auto repair coupons and discounts!

How Much Does Alternator Repair Cost?

If your car’s electrical systems are acting up, it could be due to a failing alternator. There are many signs of a malfunctioning alternator, such as dimmed lights, short battery charge, or in more serious cases, the smell of burning plastic due to burning wiring or internal components. If your car is exhibiting these same signs, you are in need of immediate alternator repair or replacement. Fortunately, alternator repair is not as expensive compared to other major automotive repairs, like engines and catalytic converters.

Continue reading to learn more about alternator repair costs, including the difference among new, used, and refurbished alternators.

Indianapolis Alternator Repair
Indianapolis Alternator Repair 317-475-1846

Your car’s alternator is important because it converts the revolutions of the engine into electrical energy, which in turn, recharges the car battery and allows for all your electrical systems to operate. Such systems include your interior and exterior lights, stereo, GPS, wipers, spark plugs, and more. Basically, if your alternator stops working, eventually your car won’t drive.

Alternator Repair Prices

The price to repair a failing alternator depends on several factors. Such factors include the make and model of your vehicle, as well as, the extent of damage to the inner components and more. On average, the cost to repair is less than the cost to replace, as a new alternator will run anywhere from $200 to $600, not including parts and labor. You can opt for a refurbished or used auto part, which will save you a lot of money. Refurbished alternators will likely come with a 1 year warranty too, so they come recommended, but used parts may suddenly break down at any time, so tread carefully.

As for the cost to repair or install an alternator, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on the above-mentioned factors. Luxury and exotic vehicles will be more expensive to repair, while older cars may be easier, which means paying less in labor. Just be sure to choose a reputable and professional Indianapolis auto repair shop to ensure you are getting quality work at a fair price.

Indianapolis Alternator Repair

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE certified alternator repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide comprehensive automotive electrical repair and service for all make and model vehicles, as well as, free estimates, free advice, and auto repair coupons! Schedule an appointment for a free estimate, today!

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846