Check These Five Automotive Fluids Regularly

Posted on February 28, 2022 by autorepair

Winter is still going strong, but the time of year makes no difference when it comes to car maintenance. There are many tasks to stay on top of if you wish to keep your vehicle in optimal condition, year-round. Checking on your automotive fluid levels is one of these vital car maintenance priorities.

Continue reading to learn the 5 car fluids you should check on regularly, plus where to take your vehicle for dealership-level car maintenance at neighborhood prices in Indianapolis.

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Important Car Fluids

The total number of fluids in a vehicle really depends on the type, make, and model. However, virtually all automobiles require 7 to 8 design-specific fluids for optimal performance and longevity. These include fluids for the engine, brakes, transmission, radiator, power steering, battery, differential, and windshield.

The most important automotive fluids you should be checking on a regular basis, especially during the winter and summer months when the temperatures are more extreme, include the motor oil, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You can refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to check each automotive fluid level.

Motor Oil

Also referred to as engine oil, your motor oil levels matter every time you turn the ignition. Engine oil is designed to lubricate the internal engine structure, thus abating friction and heat generation, which can be damaging to the engine and other automotive parts. Check your motor oil levels biweekly or monthly, depending on how often and how far you drive. Always be sure to let your engine cool completely before pulling out the oil dipstick. Get your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or according to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s instructions.

Radiator Fluid

Also called coolant or antifreeze, radiator fluid is responsible for regulating internal temperatures. It prevents a car engine from overheating. Coolant becomes contaminated with rust and other pollutants overtime, making it necessary to check and replace on a regular basis. Improper coolant levels or dirty radiator fluid can cause an engine to overheat, damage other internal engine components, and pose several safety risks to drivers and passengers of the vehicle.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic transmission vehicles require transmission fluid to keep the gears shifting properly. Like motor oil is a lubricant for the engine, transmission fluid acts in a similar way for the gears. Check the transmission fluid as often as you check the motor oil. Not only should you have enough fluid, but it should also be clean. Transmission fluid does degrade over time, and as a result can change colors or appear dark and dirty. Dark or black transmission fluid is dirty and requires replacing should be replaced as soon as possible.

Brake Fluid

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably one of most important safety components. after all, they allow you to stop your 5,000 pound car when it’s moving at 60 miles an hour! Brake fluid is an essential automotive fluid because it supports the performance of your car’s braking system. If you’re brake fluid is low or poor in quality, it can affect how well your car responds to brake pressure. You should have your brake fluid checked on an annual basis, or more often if you’re experiencing any type of automotive leak.

Power Steering

Today, most vehicles are designed with power steering, and therefore, require power steering fluid. Without sufficient levels of clean, quality power steering fluid, the steering wheel will become more difficult to maneuver, and eventually will hardly be movable at all. Power steering fluid should be checked every year or two years, depending on how often you drive and the age of the vehicle.

TIPS FOR CHECKING AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS:

↪ Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to check and replace the fluids in your vehicle.

↪ Aside from a transmission fluid check, your car should be turned off and the engine should be completely cooled down before you check any automotive fluid levels.

↪ Be sure your car is parked on an even and level surface for accurate readings.

↪ Choose top quality automotive fluids that are specifically designed for the intended application.

↪ Spotting a small puddle of liquid beneath or in front of your car can be an indication of an automotive leak. Have this inspected by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.

↪ Never forget about refilling your windshield wiper fluid. It’s very frustrating to run out when you need it most! It can also prevent traffic accidents and roadside emergencies!

↪ Overall, you should check all automotive fluids at least every month to ensure that levels are adequate, and liquids are clean.

Are you looking for a professional auto shop to provide routine car maintenance for your vehicle in place? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed auto service and car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Ask us about our auto repair and service promotions!

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The Most Common Tire Brands for Cars and Trucks

Posted on January 31, 2022 by autorepair

Any automotive expert will tell you how important it is to have dependable tires on your vehicle. Good tires provide quality performance over a long period of time. They significantly affect the handling and fuel economy of a vehicle and ensure a safer drive in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether its all-season tires, snow tires, or summer tires; be sure to understand the differences between brands to match the right set of tires to your specific needs and budget.

Continue reading to learn some interesting facts about some of the more popular tire brands on the market today and remember these notes for the next time you need a new set of wheels for your vehicle!

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Top 3 Car Tire Brands and Their Features

Bridgestone

Bridgestone tires are a very popular tire brand used throughout the entire country. The Bridgestone brand is known for its high durability in all-season weather. These tires are manufactured with a specialized tread compound that maximizes rolling resistance, which in turn, improves fuel economy and saves you money when filling up! The resistance allows more energy to return to the tire and reduce heat generation.

It is a wonderful and state-of-the-art feature. Bridgestone tires are well-known for their quiet ride, durability, dry performance, wet performance, and ride comfort as well. Their tire line includes summer tires, snow tires, all-season tires, and more. Bridgestone comes as a highly recommended tire brand. Dueler, Turanza, Ecopia, and Potenza are popular models of Bridgestone tires.

Michelin

The Michelin brand tire engineers focused on safety, longevity, and performance when designing the Michelin tire lines. This brand is well-known for quality tires at an affordable cost. They provide advanced braking technology, optimized fuel efficiency, superb handling, and better control. Popular Michelin tire choices include the Michelin Pilot®, Michelin Defender®, and Michelin Energy™ Saver A/S lines. They also offer snow tires, truck tires, all-weather tires, summer tires, and more!

Goodyear

Goodyear tires are another popular tire brand. Goodyear has been around for as long as the other tire manufacturers mentioned before. Since 1898, the Goodyear name has influenced the history of the tire industry and the technological advancements seen and used on the road today. There is no telling where Goodyear will take tire advancement next; but as for today, their teams of engineers, scientists, technicians, and other specialists are hard at work developing new technologies and innovations for the future of driving.

Michelin offers a wide selection of quality tires for all seasons, vehicles, and uses. Some of the more admired tire brands include Goodyear Eagle®, Goodyear Assurance®, Goodyear Fortera®, Goodyear Wrangler®, and the Goodyear Ultra Grip® winter tire line. There are several other fantastic and high quality tires on the Goodyear line for all types of vehicles, from SUV’s to trucks, cars, and more.

Tires on the Same Axel Should Match

Tire manufacturers design the particular tread pattern on tires. The science behind tread patterns is that it is supposed to enhance traction, channel mud, water, and snow away, and more. These tread patterns, can however, create a condition known as “tread steer” which causes the grooves to catch areas of the road that are irregular. This is not an issue if both the front and rear tires have different tread patterns. It is only a problem is tires on the same axle have different tread patterns.

Are you in need of tire service in the Indy area? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We work on all make and model vehicles.

Here are 4 Things You Did Not Know About Catalytic Converters

Posted on January 18, 2022 by autorepair

Are you on the market for a new catalytic converter? One typically does not research facts about catalytic converters until their own begins to act up. Whether you are replacing or repairing a catalytic converter, some information about them can help you understand your best options for both.

Below are the top 4 facts about catalytic converters that most people do not know. These facts can give you some insight about their value, availability, importance, troubles, and more.

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Top 4 Catalytic Converter Facts

Catalytic Converters Reduce Toxic and Harmful Emissions

Catalytic converters are vital auto parts because they are designed to abate the toxic emissions generated by burning fuel, which in turn, also helps to reduce air pollution. There are many harmful discharges a vehicle can produce, all of which can be detrimental to our health and the surrounding environment; but the primary are nitrogen gas, carbon dioxide, and water vapor.

Vehicles can also generate smaller, yet still very harmful emissions and gases, like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Catalytic converters work against these emissions, reducing their spread into our atmosphere or destroying them altogether.

Catalytic Converters Contain Rare and Precious Metal

Have you been wondering why the cost to replace a catalytic converter is so high? Well, as you already know, catalytic converters play an important role in our vehicles. This level of emission control requires a material composition that can handle extreme temperatures, high pressure, and toxic discharges. For these reasons, catalytic converters are made from a variety of strong metals and metal alloys, some of which are precious metals.

Platinum, titanium, and rhodium are common precious metals used to manufacturer catalytic converters. Precious metals are rare, naturally-occurring elements with high economic value; so, if catalytic converters are expensive to make, they must be expensive to buy. On average, catalytic converter replacement costs between $975 and $2,500.

Catalytic Converters Were Not Always an Industry Standard

Because we now know the importance of catalytic converters, they are an industry standard in the automotive manufacturing industry. All vehicles, whether car, truck, sports utility, or van, come equipped with a catalytic converter. But this wasn’t always the case. Before 1975, catalytic converters were not a regularly incorporated into automobile design. In the seventies, laws and regulations began to arise in regard to the link between vehicles and air pollution.

Catalytic Converters Do Not Work Well in Cold Temperatures

Have you noticed that your car or truck doesn’t like to start up right away when it’s really cold outside? Well, that could be due to the fact that catalytic converters work best in high temperatures. When your car is cold, the catalytic converter will not kick in all the way until the engine has heated up. Fortunately, your trusted Indianapolis mechanic will have some solutions on how to improve your catalytic converter performance if this is a regular issue for you.

Are you experiencing performance or safety issues with your catalytic converter? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for licensed and insured car radiator and exhaust repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How to Detect Automotive Failure With Your Ears

Posted on December 17, 2021 by autorepair

While driving, one might hear nothing but the purring of their car engine and the clicking of their turn signal. But there are times when a person can experience another set of noises they have never heard before; or ones that certainly startle. Such noises are not desirable, as they may portend the certainty of repairs and maintenance work ahead. But not to worry; most car noises, like thumping, crackling, grinding, and squeaking, are perfectly resolvable. The first step is to diagnose the cause of the noise or noises, and there are three very common noises that are related to a number of common repairs.

Continue reading to learn the top 3 most common car noises, how to listen for them, and what they might mean in terms of auto repair and service.

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Car Noises That Indicate a Problem

Metal Grinding

If you are hearing metal on metal grinding sounds coming from somewhere in your car, this could possibly be the brakes. Brakes are made up of balanced parts, each with a particular path that allows them to harmoniously work together toward a common goal of stopping the car. If any of these parts are worn or off-set, it can create noises that sound like grinding. This means your car is probably in need of some new brake pads, or possibly even some new rotors. It is always best to have a certified technician take a look to be sure what the catalyst for the noise really is.

Aggressive Clunking

If you are suddenly hearing a heavy thumping or clanging sound coming from your vehicle, there is no telling whether or not it’s a serious or complex repair without further investigating some areas. These sounds could be occurring for a number of reasons, such as worn out or broken joints on a drive shaft and bad shocks. On the minor side, sometimes you just have something really heavy in your trunk and you keep hitting bumps on the road. Check your trunk, and if it turns out that’s not the issue, contact an auto repair shop to investigate further for you.

Whistling Engine Noise

This is not like the whistle of a train or trolley, but more like a hissing sound seeping out of your engine. Sometimes this sound is followed by heavy steam coming from the engine and can even last after the car is turned off. The root of the whistling can be a variety of reasons, from cooling system leaks to overheated engines. Again, it is best to check with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately. You do not want to risk a faulty repair job on your only means of transportation!

Concerned about the noises and sounds coming from your car or truck? 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!

Top 4 Signs Your Car Needs Radiator Repair

Posted on December 3, 2021 by autorepair

When your car begins to experience any type of automotive defect, it will tell you. As for diagnosing a cooling system issue, the same affect applies. In fact, you can easily spot the signs of radiator failure early on, as they tend to present themselves right away.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 signs that indicate a cooling system malfunction or breakdown, as well as where to get car radiator repair in Indianapolis.

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How to Detect Car Radiator Failure

The radiator is an important component in your vehicle and a primary part of your car’s cooling system. Its job is to keep the engine from overheating, which is vital for optimal safety and performance. If your car’s radiator begins to show signs of needed repair, it is wise to have it serviced by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible. Catching a small problem early on is a cost-effective method of routine car maintenance and repair.

Here are the top 4 signs to look for if you suspect that your vehicle’s radiator might be the underlying problem behind your car troubles:

❶ Low Coolant

If you begin to notice that your coolant is always running low, or your “low coolant” light comes on, it may be due to a radiator leak. Although it can be tempting to simply refill and forget about it, it is important to put your schedule aside and have your radiator inspected by a licensed Indianapolis IN mechanic. A radiator leak can be dangerous for many reasons, so it is necessary to repair them if one exists.

❷ Coolant Leak

If you notice coolant on the ground beneath your vehicle, you have a coolant leak. Coolant leaks are caused by a leak in the radiator. Radiator fluid, known as coolant, flows through the engine and the radiator, so if it is dripping onto the ground, it is a sure sign that the radiator has a crack or opening somewhere. A professional auto repair shop in Indianapolis can accurately locate radiator leaks with a specialized test using pressure and dyes.

❸ Discolored Coolant

Radiator fluid should be yellow, red, or green at all times. However, when the cooling system begins to go bad, the fluid can start to turn to rusty or oily colors, such as black or brown. Overtime, this oily fluid turns into sludge inside the radiator, which prevents the coolant from flowing properly. When this happens, it slows performance and reduces efficiency. Unfortunately, a radiator will need to be replaced if sludge gets inside.

❹ Overheating Engine

Since the radiator’s job is to regulate the temperatures produced inside an engine, it is no surprise that an overheating car engine is a very common sign of radiator failure. If the engine overheats just one time, it could be due to something minor like being low on coolant. But if your engine is overheating regularly, it could be a more serious repair. The more times you allow your engine to overheat, the more damage is done to your vehicle. It is important to get them repaired as soon as possible before they can get worse.

Are you looking for a trusted car mechanic for help with your cooling system issue? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for radiator repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Be sure to check out all our automotive service coupons and discounts too!

How to Diagnose a Weak Car Engine

Posted on November 8, 2021 by autorepair

When you first bought your car, you could feel its glorious power as you pressed the gas pedal. But now that your car has aged, it may feel like it has lost some of its former glory out on the road. It is possible for car engines to experience a level of decline, even in new vehicles. There are signs you can look for to better understand the condition of your car engine and determine if it needs professional attention.

Continue reading to learn how to diagnose a weakening or declining car engine and where to take your vehicle in for top-notch automotive tune-ups and repairs in Indianapolis.

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Signs That Your Car Engine is Losing Power

There are several reasons why your car engine might be losing power or performance value. Before the modernization of the fuel system, most vehicles were manufactured with carburetors and mechanical fuel pumps. Accordingly, engine power loss was easily diagnosed as a clogged filter or vapor lock. With today’s sophisticated exhaust and fuel system technologies, it can be more difficult pinpointing the underlying cause of a failing car engine.

Engine Power Loss Signs and What They Mean

To ensure you pick up on signs of engine trouble sooner rather than later, keep your eye out for some of the most common tell-tale signs. Whether you experience these scenarios every time you drive or intermittently, it is strongly encouraged to seek out professional auto service to inspect your vehicle for safety and performance issues.

Gas Pedal Inefficacy

If you feel like your gas pedal is not responding at the same rate or in the same way as it used to, it could indicate an issue with your fuel system. The most common fuel system malfunctions are caused by a clogged fuel injector, fuel line leak, gunky fuel filter, or a faulty fuel pump.

Steering Wheel Movement

Does your steering wheel shake vigorously while your vehicle is in idle or coming to a rest? A trembling steering wheel is often a sign of engine power loss, and it typically happens as a result of your cylinders misfiring. What causes cylinders to misfire? Most commonly, spark loss, dropped compression, or imbalanced air-to-fuel ratios.

Poor Incline Performance

Do you notice that your vehicle begins to show signs of struggle as you drive up an incline? If your car slows down as it courses uphill even if you are pressing on the gas, it could be due to a number of underlying mechanical problems. But in most cases, cars that struggle on inclines have a clogged fuel filter. Fortunately, this is a quick an inexpensive repair.

Check Engine Light

If your Check Engine Light is illuminated on your dashboard, it be a warning that your engine is losing power. The underlying issue could be a faulty catalytic converter, mass airflow sensor, O₂ sensor, or spark plug wires. Sometimes, the issue related to a defective positive crankcase ventilation valve (PCV), which is a part of the vehicle’s emissions control system.

Not sure what’s causing your car’s performance or efficiency issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive maintenance service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also offer a generous selection of automotive service and repair coupons, discounts, and deals!

Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Caps

Posted on October 13, 2021 by autorepair

Typically, one does not ask questions about their gas caps until a gas cap has gone missing or begun to malfunction. If you are experiencing issues with your check engine light, fuel consumption rate, or fuel cap in general, continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about gas caps that may clear up your confusion and point you in the right direction.

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Fuel Cap FAQS

Can I Drive Without a Gas Cap?

Whether connected by a plastic tether or an old-fashioned manual screw-on, there are many reasons why a fuel cap goes missing. Regardless of why you no longer have a gas cap on your car, it is important to understand why you should not drive your vehicle until you have replaced the gas cap.

For starters, you can lose a nominal amount of gasoline to spillage and evaporation. Not only will fuel loss cost you a lot of money and waste your hard-earned paycheck, but what it will also allow moisture and organic debris inside of the gas tank, which can lead to fuel tank damages and costly repairs. It can also pollute the environment.

Furthermore, if you live in a state that requires vehicles to pass an emissions test prior to registration, not having a gas connected to your vehicle can affect this qualification.

Is it Expensive to Replace a Missing Fuel Cap?

If you are missing a fuel cap on your vehicle, the good news is they are inexpensive to replace. Additionally, the labor to install one is both easy and quick. In most cases, you simply attach it on yourself, so you avoid having to pay for labor. The cost of the gas will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but on average you can expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $15. They come in 55 to 57 mm or 58 to 60 mm options, including the threads.

Can the Gas Cap Cause the Check Engine Light to Come On?

Yes, your fuel cap can cause the check engine light to come on. If the gas cap is not properly screwed on or connected, the vehicle’s computer system will detect this disconnect and trigger the check engine light to illuminate. This is more common in modern vehicles, as older cars may not have this type of automotive technology.

How Do I Know if My Gas Cap is Malfunctioning?

There are many signs to look out for when it comes to detecting a faulty gas cap. One of the first signs that indicate you have a problem with your gas cap is unexplained fuel loss or increased gas consumption. If you’re noticing that you’re going through your fuel much faster than before, it could be that your fuel Is loose or disconnected. Another common sign of a faulty gas cap is lingering gasoline smells. If you are detecting gasoline odors in your vehicle, it could be a sign that your fuel cap is not properly attached.

How Often Should I Replace My Fuel Cap?

Unless your gas cap goes missing, you don’t need to replace it anytime soon. Gas caps are designed to last 50,000 miles or more. So long as you are taking your car in for routine maintenance, you will be immediately notified if there’s ever an issue with your gas cap by your trusted Indianapolis auto mechanic.

Are you experiencing automotive issues that need a quick diagnosis? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car maintenance and repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana, but at neighborhood prices. Request a free estimate, today.

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Top Car Care Tips for Road Trips

Posted on September 27, 2021 by autorepair

If you are planning an Autumn road trip, you have the right idea in mind! The ambient weather and changing colors of the leaves and flora will make your long-distance car trip one to remember. But before you pack up the car and hit the road, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is travel-ready. After all, you do not want to face unanticipated delays and breakdowns a long the way.

Continue below to review some of the top car care and auto maintenance tips that will help prepare your vehicle for a safe and enjoyable road trip!

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Avoid Road Trip Delays With Proper Car Care

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the majority of vehicles on the road today are more than 10 years old. If your travel vehicle is about this age, it is statistically more likely to break down. Whether you run into a dead battery issue and require a jump start or need a tow for a blown tire because you have no spare, long distance driving trips are known for unanticipated automotive malfunctions and setbacks just like these; but all of them are virtually 100% avoidable with the right preparation.

Top 3 road trip problems you can avoid with a qualified automotive pre-trip inspection:

⛮ Dead Car Batteries

One of the most frequent automotive problems experienced by long-distance road trip drivers is a dead car battery. There are many reasons why a car battery dies, but the most common cause is due to parasitic draw or drain, like accidentally leaving the interior cabin lights on all night. Other common causes of a dead car battery include problems with the alternator, starter, or electrical system.

⛮ Engine Malfunctions

Another reason why long-distance drivers run into automotive problems on a road trip is engine malfunctioning. There are many things that can go wrong within your vehicle’s engine, from gears and gaskets to belts, hoses, fans, and much more. If one of these components begins to malfunction or breaks down in any way, it can cause a problem with the engine.

Overheating car engines are common on long-distance road trips, especially during the warmer seasons. It is important to ensure that you always have an extra bottle of coolant, also referred to as radiator fluid or anti-freeze, in the trunk of your car in the case that your coolant gets low. Low coolant is the most common reason why engines overheat.

⛮ Tire Troubles

It is without a doubt that tire blowouts and flats are common automotive issues dealt with on long-distance trips. It is important to ensure that your tires are properly inflated prior to departing and routinely while traveling out on the road. Furthermore, not all cars, especially modern-day ones, come with spare tires, so you might want to consider purchasing a compatible spare if your vehicle does not already come equipped with one.

You never know when you might run over a nail or hit a pothole the wrong way. Having an extra tire on hand can get you back on the road in as little as 20 minutes so long as you have all the necessary tire changing tools. You can purchase emergency roadside kits at any local department store or through an online retailer. Such kids vary in size and quality, but for tire changing purposes you will need to make sure yours comes with a jack, torque wrench, reflective road triangles, flashlight, traffic vest, and other emergency roadside supplies.

How to Prepare Your Car for Road Trip Safety

The most effective and responsible approach to preparing your vehicle for a safe road trip is to bring it into your local Indianapolis mechanic. An ASE licensed automotive mechanic will know exactly what to inspect and what to look for when preparing for a road trip. Along with a comprehensive once-over inspection, they will make any proper adjustments and minor repairs to ensure your car is prepared for optimal efficiency and performance.

Are you ready to schedule your pre-trip car inspection with a trusted Indianapolis mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and car inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all make and model vehicles!

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Here’s How to Tell if Your Transmission is Failing

Posted on August 30, 2021 by autorepair

Just because you own a car doesn’t mean you’re expected to be an expert mechanic. However, there are certain signs and symptoms you can keep an eye out for that may indicate a specific problem within your vehicle. Take your Transmission for example. Continue reading to learn the most common signs of failing transmission, and where to go in Indianapolis for superior automotive repair and service you can trust.

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Common Problems Related to a Failing Transmission

There are many signs and symptoms that indicate a faulty or defective transmission, from whining, clunking, humming to slipping gears, dragging clutch, grinding, shaking, and more. However, the most common and detectable indications that your transmission is failing include burning smells, gear slipping issues, fluid leaks, and an illuminated check engine light.

Burn Smells

Do you smell something burning when you drive your car? This could be the transmission fluid burning up, which also means your transmission is overheating. So, if this is happening to you, it is likely due to low transmission fluid levels or very dirty transmission fluid content.

Gear Problems

If your car is refusing to go into gear, slipping gears, or a combination of both, you can safely assume it has to do with the problem within your transmission. If your cars refusing to go into gear, the most common causes are low or thickened transmission fluid, or because your shift cables or clutch linkage needs readjusting.

Fluid Leaks

Your transmission fluid plays a vital role in the overall operation and safety of your vehicle. As mentioned earlier, if you transmission fluids are low, your car will begin to show signs of trouble. If you have a leak in your transmission, then it is not capable of maintaining the proper fluid levels required to properly lubricate the inner workings of your transmission and engine. So, if you notice puddles of liquid underneath your car after it’s been sitting for a while, it could be a transmission leak.

Illuminated Check Engine Light

You can think you are check engine light for a number of warnings. On the other hand, it can be quite frustrating trying to figure out why your check engine light is on since there are so many reasons it could be. But if your check engine light does come on, it could very well be your transmission. Be sure to take it into an automotive mechanic to have it diagnosed before any further damages done to your vehicle.

Are you looking for an expert automotive mechanic for reliable auto repair and service? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We work on all make and model vehicles.

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Strange Car Smells and What They Might Mean

Posted on August 3, 2021 by autorepair

Sure, your car smells funny sometimes. But when it is not coming from last night’s fast food or that gym bag that’s been sitting in the back seat since Sunday, those smells could indicate a real problem. Continue reading to learn the most common types of car odors and which type of automotive problems they may signify.

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Common Car Smells

Car odors like burning rubber, burning wood, sulfur, gasoline, hot oil or exhaust, mold or mildew, and sweet smells are common types of odors that indicate an automotive problem or need for repair. Here are the reasons why these odors might be apparent in your vehicle right now, and what you need to do to resolve the issue:

BURNING

If you smell burning rubber, it could mean that your brake pads are worn down, or your tires are being overworked. If you detect burning wood smells, it could mean that your clutch is malfunctioning.

SULFUR

Sulfur is often described as smelling like rotten eggs. If you smell sulfur like odors in your vehicle, the most likely culprit is overcharging your car battery. Otherwise, it could be from a defective catalytic converter or even an issue with your fuel system.

GASOLINE

Unless you’ve accidentally spilled on yourself after filling station, if you are smelling gasoline in your car, is most likely a leak in your fuel tank. It could also be from a failing component within your evaporator emissions system.

HOT OIL/EXHAUST

If you are smelling hot or burning oil, or a smell similar to exhaust, it is most likely caused by an oil leak in your engine. Typically, this is from a defective gasket or seal.

MOLD OR MILDEW

Moldy or mildew odors in your vehicle are typically associated with air conditioning problems. Moisture or water can get trapped inside the inner components of your PC, and after some time begin to develop mold and mildew growth. These odors could also be caused by a buildup of moisture inside of your car, or because your cabin air filter is old.

SWEETNESS

If you are smelling sweet sugary cells in your car, it is often indicative of a coolant leak. Coolant is also known as radiator fluid, and it is on the most vital automotive fluids for all vehicles.

If you are detecting any strange odors or noises within your vehicle, it is important to have them looked at right away. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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