Yes, it can be very harmful. The combination of intense pressure waves and resulting high cylinder temperature can induce piston or ring failure. Under high-speed or high load conditions knock can lead to pre-ignition (pinging), which then accelerates engine destruction. Pre-ignition and detonation are the major cause of headgasket failures. Major cause of pinging or detonation in the engine are:
1. Poor fuel quality
2. High cylinder temperatures caused by lean fuel mixtures, failed or mis-adjusted engine controls or high engine temperatures cause from cooling system problems.
Fuel Additives
Gasoline additives such as de-icers or octane boosters usually do more harm than good. They contain alcohol which changes the volatility of the gasoline and may result in performance or hard starting problems. Although gasoline de-icer may be helpful when a small amount of water is introduced into the fuel, this condition is very rare under normal driving conditions when using quality fuel because of the sealed fuel systems on cars built in the last 20 years.
Fuel system cleaning additives can in some cases remove gum from the fuel tank and flush it into the injetors causing even more problems. Higher grade fuels contain detergents that will keep injectors, valves and fuel system clean if used regularly.
In the long run it is more economical to buy quality fuel to begin with, instead of trying to add expensive additives to accomplish what you fuel should be doing for you in the first place.
Fuel Pump Care:
GAS TANKS should be kept at least 1/4 full if your vehicle has fuel injection. This keeps plenty of fuel for the electric pump, which depends on a constant supply to lubricate its internal parts. Running low on fuel causes the pump to wear out more quickly. Dirty fuel filters can also cause early pump failure from overheating.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
keeping Coolant Clean
A survey of ASE-certified automotive technicians throughout th enation determined that coolant is the second most neglected vehicle maintenance item. Coolant should be checked for both strength and also pH level at each service. To check the pH level, you should use a chemically treated test strip, which can be purchased at most part stores.
The average pH level range of typical coolant is around 10.5. When diluted with water, it drops to 8.5 to 9. A pH level at 7 or lower can lead to both excessive corrosion and electrostatic discharge (ESD). With ESD, the PCM can receive false readings from the electronic cooant temperature sensor, which can lead to poor fuel economy and setting off of diagnostic trouble codes. With a low pH level, the coolant becomes acidic, which can cause hose, radiator and water pump failures.
So the bottom line is that if coolant is contaminated or the additives are depleted, flush the system. The use of low or no silicate coolant at a 50/50 ratio is best. You and your customer will be satisfied with a job well done.
Also, radiator caps play an important role on automotive cooling systems. They can lead to radiator or water pump seal damage. The job of the cap is to hold pressure on the system, which raises the boiling point of the coolant and prevents steam bubbles from forming inside the cooling system.
Caps should be pressure tested each time the system is serviced. Most caps will range from 4 psi to 18 psi.
When testing the cap, it should hold pressure for two minutes. If it doesn't the cap should be replaced. The condition of the gasket in the cap also should be inspected for swelling or tears that could lead to coolant loss and engine overheating.
Courtesy Airtex Automotive Division.
The average pH level range of typical coolant is around 10.5. When diluted with water, it drops to 8.5 to 9. A pH level at 7 or lower can lead to both excessive corrosion and electrostatic discharge (ESD). With ESD, the PCM can receive false readings from the electronic cooant temperature sensor, which can lead to poor fuel economy and setting off of diagnostic trouble codes. With a low pH level, the coolant becomes acidic, which can cause hose, radiator and water pump failures.
So the bottom line is that if coolant is contaminated or the additives are depleted, flush the system. The use of low or no silicate coolant at a 50/50 ratio is best. You and your customer will be satisfied with a job well done.
Also, radiator caps play an important role on automotive cooling systems. They can lead to radiator or water pump seal damage. The job of the cap is to hold pressure on the system, which raises the boiling point of the coolant and prevents steam bubbles from forming inside the cooling system.
Caps should be pressure tested each time the system is serviced. Most caps will range from 4 psi to 18 psi.
When testing the cap, it should hold pressure for two minutes. If it doesn't the cap should be replaced. The condition of the gasket in the cap also should be inspected for swelling or tears that could lead to coolant loss and engine overheating.
Courtesy Airtex Automotive Division.
Monday, November 16, 2009
OBD I and Prior Check Engine Light
The emissions malfunction indicator on pre OBD II vehicles (most models prior to 1996) is known on some models as the "Check Engine", "Power Loss", "Service Engine Now", or "Service Engine Soon" light. This light is inteded to alert the operator when there is a failure in the system that may cause an increase of harmful emissions.
The light illuminates when the ignition key is in the ON position and the engine is OFF; this is to functionally test the system and check the bulb. When the light turns ON during engine operation, even momentarily, a system diagnosis is necessary to determine the fault.
When the light is ON steady it means there is a fault currently detected. If the light illuminates and then turns off it can mean that the fault is intermittent or that the fault is only being detected intermittently. In either case, if the light is intermittent it usually means the technician will have to try to recreate the operating conditions under which the light illuminates in order to diagnose the problem.
Diagnosis of an intermittent problem is more difficult, sometimes a hit or miss situation, and sometimes requires bringing the vehicle in several times before the fault is located. Although this warning lights purpose is to warn of increased emissions, in most cases if the system is no promptly repaired, damage to other components can occur.
The light illuminates when the ignition key is in the ON position and the engine is OFF; this is to functionally test the system and check the bulb. When the light turns ON during engine operation, even momentarily, a system diagnosis is necessary to determine the fault.
When the light is ON steady it means there is a fault currently detected. If the light illuminates and then turns off it can mean that the fault is intermittent or that the fault is only being detected intermittently. In either case, if the light is intermittent it usually means the technician will have to try to recreate the operating conditions under which the light illuminates in order to diagnose the problem.
Diagnosis of an intermittent problem is more difficult, sometimes a hit or miss situation, and sometimes requires bringing the vehicle in several times before the fault is located. Although this warning lights purpose is to warn of increased emissions, in most cases if the system is no promptly repaired, damage to other components can occur.
Monday, November 9, 2009
High Mileage Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance
Fixing Your Present Vehicle Saves Money
Most of us want to get the most for our motoring dollar. One of the best ways to do this extending the life of your current vehicle. With new care prices in the United States averaging well over $10,000, money invested in keeping your existing vehicle in good shape could save you hundred--even thousands--of dollars a year. When you consider the true cost of buying a new car (price of the car, sales tax, license and registration fees, insurance), it is not difficult to justify investing a few hundred dollars to repair your present vehicle.
Safety and Scheduled Maintenance
The safety aspect of properly maintaining your vehicle, especially when it was high mileage, should not be overlooked. Failing brakes, exhaust leaks and other problems can be prevented by following sound car care practices.
Unfortunately, most manufacturers only provide maintenance guidelines for the first 100,000 miles or so. Clear procedures for maintenance beyond this mileage do not exist. At best, manufacturers provide interval service schedules, such as every 15,000 miles. These schedules should be followed whenever possible. By doing so, you can reasonably expect thousands ore satisfactory miles from your vehicle.
High Mileage Inspection and Evaluation
If your vehicle has passed the 100,000 mile mark and you want to significantly prolong its useful life, it is time to have it thoroughly evaluated by a professional automotive technician who can recommend needed repairs or service. This facility is equipped to perform this service. We employ technicians who use factory-level information detailing your vehicle's service requirements.
Our high mileage inspection and evaluation goes beyond cursory "once-overs" and is designed to get to the root of potential problems. Ask your service advisor or technician to show you exactly what is involved in this service. He or she will be happy to go over the evaluation form with you before you okay the inspection and provide you with a comprehensive estimate for any work recommended as a result of your vehicle's checkup. They will tell you about repairs that are necessary today, and also alert you to items that are potential problem areas you may want to address today for more trouble-free miles tomorrow. Naturally, you make the decision as to what work is actually performed.
Working together, we can add years to the life of your car or truck.
Most of us want to get the most for our motoring dollar. One of the best ways to do this extending the life of your current vehicle. With new care prices in the United States averaging well over $10,000, money invested in keeping your existing vehicle in good shape could save you hundred--even thousands--of dollars a year. When you consider the true cost of buying a new car (price of the car, sales tax, license and registration fees, insurance), it is not difficult to justify investing a few hundred dollars to repair your present vehicle.
Safety and Scheduled Maintenance
The safety aspect of properly maintaining your vehicle, especially when it was high mileage, should not be overlooked. Failing brakes, exhaust leaks and other problems can be prevented by following sound car care practices.
Unfortunately, most manufacturers only provide maintenance guidelines for the first 100,000 miles or so. Clear procedures for maintenance beyond this mileage do not exist. At best, manufacturers provide interval service schedules, such as every 15,000 miles. These schedules should be followed whenever possible. By doing so, you can reasonably expect thousands ore satisfactory miles from your vehicle.
High Mileage Inspection and Evaluation
If your vehicle has passed the 100,000 mile mark and you want to significantly prolong its useful life, it is time to have it thoroughly evaluated by a professional automotive technician who can recommend needed repairs or service. This facility is equipped to perform this service. We employ technicians who use factory-level information detailing your vehicle's service requirements.
Our high mileage inspection and evaluation goes beyond cursory "once-overs" and is designed to get to the root of potential problems. Ask your service advisor or technician to show you exactly what is involved in this service. He or she will be happy to go over the evaluation form with you before you okay the inspection and provide you with a comprehensive estimate for any work recommended as a result of your vehicle's checkup. They will tell you about repairs that are necessary today, and also alert you to items that are potential problem areas you may want to address today for more trouble-free miles tomorrow. Naturally, you make the decision as to what work is actually performed.
Working together, we can add years to the life of your car or truck.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Why Timing Belts Need Replacement
What is a timing belt?
Timing belts have replaced timing chains on many of today's engines. Both belts and chains ensure that crankshaft, positons and valves operate together in proper sequence. Belts are lighter, quieter and more efficient than chains.
Why replace the belt?
Like other components, timing belts wear out. Proper maintenance requires belt replacement at regular intervals--before they break.
Where are the belts located?
Timing belts are on the front of the engine protected by a plastic or metal cover.
When should belts be replaced?
When a timing belt breaks, the engine stops. Replace belts before this occurs. Most manufacturers provide a suggested service life and replacement schedule for this critical component.
How do I know if my car has one?
Your vehicle manual may tell you, but you should ask your technician--he will know for sure.
What is a "Free-Running" engine?
If the timing belt breaks on a free-running engine, the engine stops and you will need a tow to the reapir shop. No mechanical damage occurs and the installation of a new belt is usually all that is needed to get you on your way.
What is an "interference" engine?
If the timing belt breaks on an interference engine, mechanical engine damage occurs. It most commonly involves open valves being struck by pistons, resulting in the need for expensive repairs. In extreme cases, a replacement engine may be required.
Timing belts have replaced timing chains on many of today's engines. Both belts and chains ensure that crankshaft, positons and valves operate together in proper sequence. Belts are lighter, quieter and more efficient than chains.
Why replace the belt?
Like other components, timing belts wear out. Proper maintenance requires belt replacement at regular intervals--before they break.
Where are the belts located?
Timing belts are on the front of the engine protected by a plastic or metal cover.
When should belts be replaced?
When a timing belt breaks, the engine stops. Replace belts before this occurs. Most manufacturers provide a suggested service life and replacement schedule for this critical component.
How do I know if my car has one?
Your vehicle manual may tell you, but you should ask your technician--he will know for sure.
What is a "Free-Running" engine?
If the timing belt breaks on a free-running engine, the engine stops and you will need a tow to the reapir shop. No mechanical damage occurs and the installation of a new belt is usually all that is needed to get you on your way.
What is an "interference" engine?
If the timing belt breaks on an interference engine, mechanical engine damage occurs. It most commonly involves open valves being struck by pistons, resulting in the need for expensive repairs. In extreme cases, a replacement engine may be required.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Why Cars Need Preventative Maintenance
Why Preventative Maintenance
Manufacturers know that a properly maintained care will be more dependable, safer, last longer, and increase your satisfaction with their product. Car amkers and owners also have a responsibility to make sure emission controls receive regular service and are functioning properly. Regular maintenance helps accomplish these goals by keeping your engine running efficiently and eliminating potential problems that may leave you stranded.
What's in it for you?
- More Dependable Car
- A car that retains the "new car feel"
- Less chance of a costly breakdown
- A safer car for you and your family
- Doing your part for cleaner air
- A car worth more at a trade in or sale
- An intact warranty
Manufacturer's Maintenance Schedules
The manufacturer creates detailed maintenance schedules outlining specific operations to be performed on various components and systems. This is done at different mileage intervals to ensure proper operation and prevent premature wear. The manufacturer also indicates what services must be done to maintain the factory warranty and extended warranty.
ALLDATA(R) Automotive Information System
This service facility is equipped with an automotive information system that provides this detailed data. The ALLDATA(R) system even lists high-tech specialty lubricants required for your particular car. Other information includes vehicle specific repair and diagnostic information and factory-issued Technical Service Bulletins. The bottom line is efficient, dependable and cost-effective service for you.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
How to keep Your Car in Top Condition:
- Follow the maintenance schedule (owner’s manual) and do it as long as you own the car.
- Do the car’s basic maintenance regularly on time (oil change, tire rotations and fluid flushes).
- Once a month (at least) check the levels of the car’s fluids (oil, coolant, brake and power steering)
- Once a month check the air pressure in each tire, including the spare (when they are cold).
- Take your car to the mechanic when you hear something odd. When accelerating, braking or turning. New noise is not normal.
- Ask your Mechanic why your car needs additional maintenance service not mention.
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