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!

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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!

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What You Need to Know About Serpentine Belt Replacement

Posted on November 22, 2021 by autorepair

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.

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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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Check Out These Indianapolis Auto Repair Coupons and Discounts

Posted on September 17, 2021 by autorepair

Northeast Auto Service has surpassed our local competitors in terms of deals and discounts by offering unbelievable auto repair and service coupons and competitive pricing in Indianapolis! Regardless of your automotive repair and service needs, Northeast Auto Service is sure to have the right deal for you. Continue below to check out our current car repair and auto service coupons, plus learn how to get started with a free quote today!

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Top Auto Repair Deals and Auto Service Coupons in Indianapolis

Here at Northeast Auto Service, our ASE certified and licensed car mechanics have over 30 years of hands-on experience, thus retaining the expertise to solve any automotive performance problems efficiently. We have the knowledge and resources to get your car back on the road safely, and in as little time as possible. With a strict focus on integrity, honesty, and attention to detail, you can feel confident that our technicians will treat your vehicle as if it were their very own.

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Best of all, we also genuinely care about their budget, so we offer competitive pricing for auto repair and service, as well as auto repair coupons and discounts. Check out some of our summer automotive service and repair specials, below!

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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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How to Be Eco-Friendly With Your Car

Posted on July 29, 2021 by autorepair

If we could get everyone on board to work toward a cleaner, more efficient means of living, the world would be a much better place, and for a lot longer too. With the new movement in Eco-friendly practices, we now have access to green cleaning products, Eco-friendly appliances, homes, vehicles, and more. So, there are several facets of life and living that can easily be improved in terms of leading a greener lifestyle! And one fantastic and very necessary place to start is your car.

Continue reading to learn some helpful automotive tips for an Eco-friendlier way of life.

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Environmentally Friendly Driving Habits and Practices

♻ Drive Less

Vehicles are imperative assets in our lives. They get us to work, school, and more when the time calls. But there are several opportunities to forgo driving and choose to walk or ride a bike instead. You can even choose to carpool with coworkers or friends to drive less. If you do this at least once per week, you are making a positive impact on the environment.

♻ Keep Your Car as Long as Possible

It’s tempting to trade in your vehicle for a newer model or buy a new ride after a great job promotion but keeping your current vehicle for as long as you can is actually the Eco-friendlier practice. Having less cars means fewer toxic emissions and so forth. Keep your inventory of vehicles as low as possible, for as long as you can.

♻ Properly Dispose Old Auto Parts

Car batteries that can be recycled must be recycled properly, and those that are not must be safely disposed of. Proper disposal for other car parts is important too, including old tires, motor oil, car fluids, and more. Metal auto parts can be recycled for cash at your local scrap metal yard or junkyard. All of these practices will instantly help the environment.

♻ Don’t Skip Scheduled Car Maintenance

Factory scheduled car maintenance is vital to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of every vehicle. And it also helps with the budget since it prevents costly breakdowns and repairs. Scheduled car maintenance includes routine fluid changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire service, battery service, alignments, and more.

Proper auto care reduces toxic emissions and fuel consumption, and supports a safer, more efficient operation. All this is Eco-friendly and better for the environment. Check your owners’ manual for your vehicle’s suggested service schedule and talk to your Indianapolis mechanic about your car’s individual needs.

Does your car or truck need some routine auto service or a repair? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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What You Need to Know About Car Engine Steam Cleaning

Posted on June 17, 2021 by autorepair

After some time, some drivers will choose to have their engine’s steam cleaned to remove the years of built-up dirt, grease, and oil. But many drivers are hesitant to steam clean their engines because they believe it might be damaging to the motor. The reality is, if implemented properly and professionally, engine steam cleaning can be highly beneficial to a vehicle. But if not done properly, it can have the potential to cause some interior damage to a vehicle’s engine.

Continue reading to learn more about engine steam cleaning, and tips to promote better engine performance.

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Car Engine Cleaning Services

Engine steam cleaning uses hot, high-pressured water to remove particle build-up and accumulation in a vehicle’s engine and motor compartment. It is intended to clean the engine and promote smoother and improved performance. Many automotive service shops that provide this service will also use a de-greasing additive to assist in the removal process. These products break the oils and grease down, making it substantially easier to remove them.

The most important precaution to take in the process of engine steam cleaning is to make sure water does not get inside the engine, including the air intake and under the distributor cap. If water enters these areas, there can be problems. The other precaution to take in terms of engine cleaning is using the high-pressure water wand properly as to not remove paint and manufacturer decals.

These reasons are why it requires the skill of a trained professional to implement a safe engine steam cleaning job. Not only do they have to constantly move and maneuver the water wand to ensure exterior damage is avoided, they must also have the skill to comprehensively clean the engine and compartment proficiently and without causing water to enter the engine.

Car Engine Maintenance and Care

It is important to follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule as lined out in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Always be sure your car has all the required fluids it needs to operate safely and properly, and have these fluids flushed, changed, or re-filled as necessary. After several thousand miles, it is important to have your motor serviced, to inspect everything from timing belts and spark plugs to distribution caps, transfers cases, and much more. An engine tune-up is necessary after 60,000 miles or so. Talk to your local trusted Indianapolis IN auto repair mechanic about your vehicle’s necessary maintenance schedule, and catch up on all the services you need now, before the winter is here!

Are you looking for fast and affordable car engine repair and service near you? 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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How a Car Brake Inspection Will Promote Safer Summer Driving

Posted on June 10, 2021 by autorepair

Although life would be a little easier if your vehicles didn’t require so much routine care and maintenance, our own safety and financial soundness relies on regular car care. When it comes to your vehicle’s brake lines, nothing could be more important to check on a regular basis. After all, the most important quality to a car is arguably its ability to stop. Safety and assurance are two key factors as to why drivers of all ages are continuously encouraged to get regular inspections and maintenance for car brakes and brake lines.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about automotive brake care, and how a quick brake inspection can set you up for safer summer driving.

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About Automotive Brake Repair and Maintenance

Car brakes, just like various other vehicular components, need to be replaced to avoid further complications and damages. Neglecting to care for your brakes can lead to more serious and costly repairs. Brake pads, rotors, hydraulic clamps, fluid lines, and more all make up a modern day vehicle braking system. Be sure to have your car or truck brakes inspected and addressed before the summer road takes you away for the season!

Here are the most important factors to consider, and areas to inspect, when preparing for automotive brake maintenance and repair.

☑ Brake Pads
☑ Brake Rotors
☑ Brake Lines
☑ Brake Fluid
☑ Hydraulic Clamps
☑ Bolts

If you take a knee and peer into the hubcap of your vehicle’s wheel, you can visually see the brake pads and rotor. The rotor is the flat rounded metal disk, and the brake pad is the cushion-like rounded pad the sits against the rotor. These should be replaced every few months, depending on the amount of driving you do on a daily basis. Consult with a licensed mechanic for accurate industry advice, service, and assistance.

Address Brake Problems Upon Detection

In between routine factory scheduled maintenance, you will need to stay on top of any repairs you might need. In order to determine the condition of your car brakes without being a professional mechanic, simply look for some common signs. When your car brakes are in faulty condition, they will likely warn you somehow. For example, when car brakes squeak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. But it can also mean a variety of other things as well. This is where a professional mechanic can help; they can accurately diagnose any brake problem.

Do your car or truck brakes need some professional attention? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, today.

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Where to Get Free Coupons for Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

Posted on May 27, 2021 by autorepair

Gas prices are rising, and to top it all off, auto repair and service is not usually cheap. But if you look hard enough, you can actually find some amazing auto repair service deals in Indianapolis. What’s the secret? Well, you have to choose the right Indianapolis auto shop!

Continue below to learn how to get free coupons for auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis at Northeast Auto Service!

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Why Choose Northeast Auto Service in Indianapolis

Northeast Auto Service is an automotive repair shop located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and insured car repair shop has more than 25 years of professional experience in the automotive service industry. As ASE certified auto mechanic technicians, we can repair and service any make or model vehicle. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in offering courteous and reliable automotive services to Hoosiers all across Indianapolis.

Take Advantage of Our Seasonal Coupons for Auto Service and Repair

Starting now, North East Auto is offering spring and summer specials on car maintenance, service, and even repair! We proudly provide coupons on everything from fuel injection service to ignition tune ups! Whether you need an oil change, or routine brake service, we have the discounts and coupons that make it all affordable! Right now, any customer can get $50 OFF any service or repair that exceeds $250! This is an amazing value that no other automotive repair shop can beat!

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Ready to put these amazing auto service coupons to good use and put your savings to even better use? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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Top 4 Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start

Posted on March 29, 2021 by autorepair

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.

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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