10 Warning Signs of a Bad Automotive Shop

Posted on May 30, 2023 by autorepair

When it comes to automotive repair, finding a reliable and trustworthy mechanic is essential. A good auto repair shop will have experienced technicians who can diagnose your car’s issues quickly and accurately, while providing quality workmanship at fair prices. On the other hand, an unreliable or untrustworthy shop could leave you with unnecessary repairs or worse – unsafe vehicles on the road! To help you identify a bad auto repair shop, continue below to review 10 warning signs that should raise some red flags.

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How to Avoid a Bad Automotive Repair Shop Experience

An auto repair shop that is not reliable or trustworthy may either give you unnecessary repairs or put you at risk by rendering your car or truck unsafe on the road. Here are 10 warning signs that may suggest you are dealing with an unethical or ill-equipped automotive repair shop:

1. Unprofessional Staff: A good auto repair shop should have friendly and knowledgeable staff who are able to answer questions about your car repairs accurately. If the staff is unhelpful or dismissive, it may be a sign that they aren’t properly trained and don’t know what they’re doing.

2. Poor Communication: Communication is key in any auto repair shop situation. If the mechanics can’t explain to you clearly what needs to be done, then it could be a bad sign for a successful outcome of your car’s repair. Moreover, if there are delays in communication or updates on the status of your vehicle, this could indicate an unreliable service provider.

3. Unclear Estimates: Make sure you get a clear estimate of the costs before proceeding with any repairs. If the shop gives you an unclear or vague estimation, it could be a sign that they are trying to rip you off.

4. Unreasonable Price: A good auto repair shop should offer fair prices for their services. If the estimates seem too high or there aren’t any discounts available, then it might be worth looking elsewhere for cheaper options.

5. Inexperienced Technicians: Experienced technicians are essential when it comes to car repairs and maintenance; without them, your car won’t get fixed properly. Be sure to check if the shop has experienced mechanics before entrusting your vehicle to them.

6. Outdated Technology: An auto repair shop should have the latest technology and tools to help diagnose and repair your vehicle. If their equipment looks outdated or obsolete, then it could be a sign that they are not up-to-date with modern car repairs.

7. Poor Workmanship: A reliable automotive shop will provide quality workmanship that meets industry standards. If the technician’s work is sloppy or subpar, then it may be a sign of an unreliable service provider.

8. Unreliable Warranties: A good shop should offer reasonable warranties on their services; if they don’t, then it could indicate a lack of trustworthiness in their service.

9. Unsatisfied Customers: A competent auto repair shop should have positive customer feedback and reviews. If you find an unusual number of negative reviews, then it could be a sign that the shop is not up to industry standards or providing reliable services.

10. No Licensing: Finally, make sure the automotive shop has valid licenses and certifications from the relevant local and state authorities; without them, there is no guarantee that their work will meet safety standards or pass inspections.

Find the Best Auto Repair Shop Near You

By taking note of these warning signs, you’ll be more informed when deciding on which auto repair shop to use for your car repairs. Do your research before entrusting any service provider with your vehicle so that you can ensure safe and reliable results!

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? 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.

What You Need To Know Before Replacing Your Car Engine

Posted on March 7, 2023 by autorepair

Replacing your car engine is a major job, but it can be necessary if you have an old car or one that has sustained extensive damage. Replacing the engine requires a significant investment of time and money, so it’s important to understand what you’re getting into before making such a big decision. In this blog post, we will cover some of the key considerations when deciding whether to replace your car’s engine and how to go about doing it correctly.

We’ll discuss topics like assessing the condition of your car’s current engine, researching parts availability and cost estimates for labor costs associated with replacing an engine. With all this information in hand, you should feel more confident about taking on such an undertaking or knowing when it’s better to seek professional help.

Let’s get started.

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How to Approach the Car Engine Replacement Process

Diagnosing the Extent of Damage

The first step in car engine replacement is to assess the condition of your car’s current engine. You’ll want to consider factors such as the age and type of car, any recent services or repairs, and whether there are any major issues that need immediate attention. Additionally, you should be aware of any potential safety risks associated with continuing to drive with an old or damaged engine. Knowing these details ahead of time will make it easier for you to decide whether a car engine replacement is necessary and how much work needs to be done.

Searching For Parts

Once you’ve determined that replacing your car’s engine is the best course of action, you’ll need to do some research into parts availability and cost estimates for labor costs associated with replacing an engine. Make sure to find a reputable car parts store or car repair shop that has an extensive selection of car engine parts.

Estimating the Cost of Labor

Additionally, make sure to get some cost estimates for labor costs associated with the car engine replacement. Replacing an engine is costly. The average cost of engine replacement largely depends on the type and make of engine, as well as the labor costs charged by your mechanic. Typically, engine replacements cost anywhere from a couple thousand dollars to several thousand dollars but can even reach up to ten thousand dollars for luxury or sport models. It is important to get several quotes from reputable mechanics to find the best engine replacement deal for you and your car.

Make Engine Replacement a Hassle-Free Experience

Replacing your car engine is a major undertaking and requires a significant investment of time and money. Nevertheless, understanding what’s involved ahead of time will enable you to decide whether it’s worth the effort and how best to go about doing it correctly. By assessing the condition of your car’s current engine, researching parts availability, and understanding cost estimates for labor associated with replacing an engine, you can feel more confident about the entire process.

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

Automotive Maintenance 101 for Trucks

Posted on March 30, 2022 by autorepair

Maintenance services are intended to keep a vehicle’s motor in optimal condition and prevent future costly breakdowns and repairs. They are quite necessary, whether you have a car or a truck. If you are new to owning both a car and a truck, you will start to notice a slight difference in their maintenance needs. A truck’s maintenance schedule and requirements differ from that of a standard two or four-door vehicle. But overall, both types of vehicles require pretty much the same services.

The owners’ manual gives detailed instructions regarding your make and model’s factory scheduled maintenance needs and agenda. If you do not have this manual for your vehicle, you can most likely download a copy online, or consult an auto mechanic for professional advice.

Continue reading to learn the recommended car maintenance schedule for trucks, plus where to get dealership-level auto repair and service at a fraction of the cost in Indianapolis.

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The Fundamentals of Routine Truck Maintenance

Fluid Refills

All motor vehicles, whether truck, car, or SUV, requires a certain level and array of fluids to operate effectively and safely. These fluids include motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper solution, power steering fluid, and battery fluid. But cars and trucks are used for different purposes, and they drive differently. A car only holds up to five passengers and drives mostly on smooth roads; whereas a truck is likely to carry loads, haul items, and drive on rougher terrains. This type of driving causes the fluids to run hotter and get used up quicker. For this reason, trucks will require more frequent fluid changes than a standard car.

Lube and Oil

On the topic of fluids, trucks also require routine lubrication of their ball joints and U-joints. These areas also need to be inspected regularly for damages or defects. For manual trucks, it is important to also check on the clutch reservoir fluid to make sure it is at a good level.

Vehicles need air and oil filters to keep the motor clean of solid debris. Otherwise, the debris would enter the motor and grind between moving parts, causing engine damage. For trucks that are used in construction or other rugged outdoor sites, it is likely that the air and oil filters are accumulating more debris at a faster rate. This means trucks used under these conditions will require more frequent filter changes than cars. Fortunately, filters are cheap and easy to change.

Tire Inflation

Lastly, trucks require more frequent tire inflation. Tire inflation is important, and necessary, for trucks because they carry cargo. Tires should be evenly and properly inflated to safely haul cargoes. If tires are not adequately inflated, tire blow outs can occur, causing truck accidents and collisions.

Are you looking for a skilled automotive mechanic who can get your truck in and out of the shop, fast? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled truck maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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!

Indianapolis Auto Mechanic — Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 317-475-1846

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

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.

But Wait! It Gets Much Better!

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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Buy 4 Oil Changes – Get 1 FREE!
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Why Choose Northeast Auto Service in Indianapolis?

⚙ 30+ Years of Experience
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⚙ Independently Owned Auto Shop
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Get started on all your Fall and Winter automotive service checklists now! Contact us at 317-253-3331 for dependable Indianapolis IN automotive services you can trust. We work on all make and model vehicles, including imports, luxury cars, and classics.

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How to Tell if You Need to Replace the Spark Plugs in Your Car

Posted on July 17, 2021 by autorepair

If you are not a trained mechanic, you can’t always tell what’s wrong with your car, or whether there’s even anything wrong at all. But by educating yourself on the stop signs of different failing auto parts, you can better be attuned to what your car is trying to tell you. One of the most overlooked auto part replacement needs is bad spark plugs.

Continue reading to learn how to tell if you need to replace the spark plugs in your car, and who to trust for affordable auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis.

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What Do Spark Plugs Do?

Spark plugs are important automotive component because they play a vital role in your engine’s overall operation. As small electrical devices within a vehicle, spark plugs work by triggering combustion within the engine. And just like their name suggests, they produce a spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture within the combustion chambers of the engine cylinders. As a result, the engine gets the power it needs to move the vehicle. Basically, spark plugs are responsible for starting your car, keeping it started, and ensuring a smooth ride.

Signs of Bad Spark Plugs

Most auto manufacturers recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, while others suggest their vehicles can last up to 100,000 miles or more before spark plug replacement is needed. Most spark plugs are made with metals like titanium and iridium, which are strong grades. Other spark plugs are made from copper, which tends to not last as long. Check with your owner’s manual or local Indianapolis auto mechanic to confirm your spark plug replacement schedule.

There are various symptoms a vehicle can demonstrate that may indicate an underlying problem with spark plugs. However, there are 5 very common signs that suggest your spark plugs have gone bad and should be replaced. These top five signs include poor gas mileage, engine misfires, engine turnover problems, slow or delayed acceleration, and bumpy idling.

Poor Gas Mileage

If you notice that your fuel tank is not lasting as long as it usually does, and no other changes have taken place within your driving habits for your vehicle, it could be a sign that your spark plugs are deteriorated. Spark plugs that are in good condition help your engine burn fuel efficiently, so when they start to deteriorate, one of the first signs is increased fuel consumption.

Engine Misfires

An engine misfire is when a running engine suddenly blows, pops, and shuts down. Misfires sound like sputtering, rough shaking, or a sudden wind down of power. Spark plugs are not in the best condition, they can cause engines to misfire because the spark producing is not adequate to ignite the air fuel mix within the combustion chambers.

Engine Turnover Problems

Like engine misfires, if you have trouble starting your car, whether in cold weather, when you have a low level gas, or for what seems like no reason at all, it could be because your spark plugs are dirty or damaged, and therefore not generating a strong enough spark anymore. Jerky starts or unsuccessful turnovers are a telltale sign of spark plug problems.

Slowed Acceleration

Slow or delayed acceleration is another common sign of bad spark plugs. When you press your foot down on the gas pedal, but your car doesn’t seem to respond as quickly as it used to, it could be because you were spark plugs are deteriorated or damaged. This sign could also indicate other issues, like dirty fuel injectors, defective oxygen sensors, and bad fuel pumps. But most often, it’s just the spark plugs, which fortunately, are much cheaper to repair.

Bumpy Idling

Rough, bumpy, and/or loud idling, whether sitting in the driveway waiting to take off, or at a stoplight, is a common sign that spark plugs have corroded. Keep your ears open for rattling, bumping, knocking, and pinging noises, which are all frequent symptoms of spark plug problem in the engine.

Are you looking for a trusted auto mechanic for help with your spark plug problem? 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!

You Should Also Read:

4 Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage
6 Signs That Suggest You Need Alternator Repair
Top 3 Signs You Need Catalytic Converter Repair

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

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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Car Care Tips for New Car Owners

Posted on April 12, 2021 by autorepair

Whether you are 16 years old and brand new to independent driving, or a first-time new car owner, your top priority should be safe driving. But there is more to being a safe driver other than skill and knowledge; it is equally important to know how to take good care of your vehicle and stay on top of routine maintenance. This ensures optimal performance and efficiency, which in turn supports safer driving. As a newbie to automotive responsibility, it is strongly encouraged to review and understand the basics of car care, and then keep up with your vehicle’s factory scheduled services.

Continue below to learn some fundamental car care tips for new car owners.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846

The Importance of Routine Car Care

If you want to be the safest driver you can possibly be, then you will need to add routine car maintenance to your list of priorities. Regular car care allows your vehicle to perform its best and last much longer. Routine and proper car care can also reduce the frequency or likelihood of mechanic expenses for costly breakdowns and auto part replacements.

Although the detailed factory scheduled maintenance checklist varies depending on the type of driver you are and your car’s make and model, there are a few basic services and needs that all car owners will need to implement in order to maintain a safe and reliable vehicle. From fluid changes and radiator flushes to tune-ups, wiper replacements, and more, you can be a better driver if you take good care of your car.

Recommended Automotive Services for All Car Owners

► Fluid Changes

Your car uses several fluids, seven in fact. They all need to be swapped out or refilled regularly for optimal performance and longevity. These include motor oil, radiator fluid (coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid (usually just water), and windshield wiper fluid. Refer to your owners’ manual, or look it up online, to see how often all of these need to be replaced. As for wiper fluid, you can often detect the need for a refill yourself. As for oil changes, the average recommendation is every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but this can vary depending on how often you drive and other factors.

► Battery Service

You can expect to have your car battery replaced every 7,500 miles or so, which is usually around 48 months. You will likely start to see the signs of a failing battery, such as dimming lights, stalled engine, and sluggish performance. Be sure you always have a set of jumper cables in your trunk so that you can jump start the battery if it dies.

► Tire Care

Your tires are arguably one of the most important exterior features of a car. After all, they make actual contact with the road, while providing traction to keep there, and in control. For this reason, it is important to take good care of your car tires with routine rotation and balancing, as well as regular tire pressure inspections and air refills. Try to have your tires serviced every 6 months, or every 7,500 miles.

► Brake Service

Along with your tires, your brakes are also vital automotive components necessary for safety. Be sure to have your brakes checked and serviced every year. A typical automotive brake inspection should include an inspection of all lights, hoses, lines, and electrical components, as well as cleaning, brake fluid replenishment, vehicle alignment, brake pad replacement, brake rotor replacement, and a test drive.

► Engine Inspections and Tune Ups

Along with your routine oil change, your engine will need a basic inspection and a few tweaks, and perhaps even a little cleaning, while it’s in the shop. This level of engine service should be done at least once every year.

► Exterior Car Care

It is also important to keep your car clean. Neglecting to wash your car regularly will subject it to years of piled up residue, which can cause paint erosion, rust, and more. This type of damage will also have a devastating impact on a vehicle’s overall resale value. Of course, it is also recommended to keep the inside of your car clean as much as possible for optimal driving safety.

Does your car need some routine maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for superior, ASE licensed auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model vehicles.

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Choose Northeast Auto Service as Your Local Trusted Indianapolis Mechanic

Posted on February 28, 2020 by autorepair

Northeast Auto Service is a locally-owned and operated automotive repair shop based out of Indianapolis, Indiana, just off of Binford Boulevard and 65th Street. We are ASE certified and licensed mechanics with nearly 30 years of hands-on experience in the automotive service and repair industry. Join the countless number of Hoosiers with car maintenance and repair needs, and choose none other than the state certified mechanics at Northeast Auto Service!

Continue below to learn what we can do for you, and which automotive service specials we are running this year!

ASE Certified Mechanics 317-475-1846 — Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Superior Automotive Care on the North Side

Here at Northeast Auto Service, we offer comprehensive automotive repair for all make and model vehicles, both foreign and domestic, specializing in major engine work. As ASE certified factory trained mechanics with decades of experience, you can rest assure that your vehicle is in the hands of true industry professionals who care about quality. Best of all, as a family owned and operated business, we understand the value of a dollar, which is why we maintain the most competitive prices in town.

Automotive Coupons and Discounts

No matter the time of year, Northeast Auto has fantastic cost-saving coupons, specials, and deals for both car repair and maintenance! Right now, customers can get $50 off any service or repair over $250! This is an amazing value that no other automotive repair shop can beat! Additional deals we are currently running are: BUY 4 OIL CHANGES AND GET ONE FREE, $50 OFF IGNITION TUNE UPS & FUEL INJECTION SERVICE, $25 OFF EACH BRAKE AXEL REPAIR, and $50 OFF COMPLETE BRAKE REPAIR, and a FREE SAFETY INSPECTION ANY TIME!

Why Choose Northeast Auto Service?

⚙ Fully Licensed & Insured
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Get Started With a Free Estimate Today!

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can trust. We 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.

Do Manual Cars Get Better Fuel Mileage Than Automatics?

Posted on January 28, 2020 by autorepair

Gas mileage is huge these days in the car buying market. Everyone wants to do good by the environment as well as their wallets. So when people are shopping around for a new vehicle, the common question concerning transmissions is guaranteed to arise. Should you buy a manual, stick shift car, or a more simple, modern-day automatic? The question has stimulated debates for decades, and is still, for the most part, quite undecided. This is because there is a thin line between which type is better for fuel economy.

Continue reading to learn more about transmissions and fuel consumption, as well as, what to do if you are concerned about your vehicle’s performance.

Gas Mileage Factors to Consider

Manual or automatic? That is the question; right? Well, the answer depends on many factors, namely the make and model of the vehicle, and the manner or style of driving you intend on doing. You see, in older automatic transmissions, a torque converter is used to couple the engine between gears, which in turn, burns more fuel and therefore, affects gas mileage. Oppositely, manual transmissions do not use a torque converter, but rather, a clutch.

So, if you are looking to buy a used, older vehicle, a manual might be more fuel efficient than an older, automatic transmission vehicle. On the other hand, newer make and model automatic transmissions are manufactured with an overdrive top gear that reduces RPM’s at high speeds, like on the interstate. They are also designed with 5, 6, or 7 speeds. All of these features allows for easier and smoother highway cruising and better gas mileage.

As for the type of driving a person does, manual and automatic transmission choices will differ. For example, if a person lives in a busy city area with constant stop-and-go traffic, a manual transmission vehicle could save on fuel (up to 2 MPG) because automatics tend to use more energy under these circumstances. If a person does a lot of interstate traveling, and prefers a new model vehicle, an automatic is a better choice for improved gas mileage.

How to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Wish to improve your fuel consumption in order to get better gas mileage? It all starts with proper car care and diligence. By staying current on inspections, oil changes, engine cleanings, tune-ups, tire rotations, and additional maintenance needs, you can make an instant and meaningful impact on your vehicle’s gas mileage. Another effective way to reduce fuel consumption is to simply drive more efficiently. This means carpooling when you can, avoiding engine revving, avoiding abrupt starting and stopping, and reducing your speed. All these combined can instantly increase your gas mileage by burning less fuel per mile.

If you believe your vehicles fuel consumption is experiencing problems, take it to a licensed mechanic for professional fuel system service and repair. Trained Indianapolis car mechanics retain the proper tools and equipment to diagnose fuel system problems and much more.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Care

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including transmission repairs, fuel system repairs, and general automotive maintenance services. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.

The Process of Automotive Catalytic Conversion

Posted on January 13, 2020 by autorepair

Did you know that your car’s catalytic converter is made from a highly valuable precious metal, platinum? But that’s not the only attribute that makes this automotive component so valuable. When it comes to vehicular safety and performance, a catalytic converter is more of a precious asset rather than a precious metal.

Continue reading to learn more about catalytic converters, including how they work.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Harmful Automotive Emissions

Vehicles use fuel, usually gasoline or diesel, to operate. These fuel sources are made from petroleum, and contain more than 150 different chemicals, including hydrocarbons and additives. When burned in the engine of a car, they create harmful gases and emissions that are threatening to our environment, and planet as a whole. These include carbon monoxide, which is a highly poisonous gas, as well as volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), and nitrogen oxides (which cause smog).

History of Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters weren’t always an automotive standard. In fact, they weren’t made a standard in the automotive manufacturing industry until 1975, after laws changed regarding cars and air pollution. Today, catalytic converters are on all automotive assembly lines, as they play a vital role in meeting national emissions control standards since many states actively govern the amount of emissions permitted for a car to be registered.

How Do They Work

Catalytic converters are exhaust emission control devices that serve the sole purpose of transforming harmful emissions produced by a car engine, into less harmful pollutants. They “convert” toxic gases and pollutants before they leave a car’s exhaust system by using two types of catalysts. A catalyst is a chemical that causes a particular chemical reaction to speed up without itself changing in the process. In the case of a catalytic converter, the chemical reaction to speed up is the removal of the harmful emissions.

As mentioned, catalytic converters are made primarily from platinum, but they can also contain palladium or rhodium. These metals make up the two catalysts used to convert harmful gases and emissions produce by the engine. The first catalyst uses a chemical process called reduction, which just means oxygen removal, to attack nitrogen oxide pollution. It does this by breaking down the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and oxygen gases, which are less harmful.

The second catalyst uses an opposite chemical process called oxidation, which adds oxygen, thus turning carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. Although two catalysts are used to make safe conversions, there are actually three chemical processes going on to accomplish the entire job. The third is another type of oxidation that turns unburned hydrocarbons in the exhaust into water and carbon dioxide.

Two-Way and Three-Way Converters

Some cars will have two-way catalytic converters, which use the first two chemical processes of reduction and oxidation. Then there are other vehicles that have a three-way catalytic converter, which means they use all three chemical processes to change harmful gases and emissions into less harmful ones.

Catalytic Converter Maintenance and Repair

The responsibility of ensuring your catalytic converter is in optimal condition at all times is a vital one. Be sure you are taking good care of your vehicle, and taking it in for regular inspections and factory scheduled maintenance. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Talk to a trusted Indianapolis auto mechanic about your questions and concerns.

Affordable Indianapolis Auto Service You Can Trust

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for the best prices on professional auto services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of car repairs and scheduled maintenance services for both foreign and domestic vehicles. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.