My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

AC Car System | 6 Common Problems and Solutions

6 Common Car AC Problems and Solutions

As temperatures rise, a malfunctioning car air conditioning (AC) system can quickly turn a pleasant drive into a sweaty and uncomfortable experience. Understanding common car AC problems is essential for timely diagnosis and resolution. In this exploration, we'll unveil six prevalent issues that can plague car air conditioning systems and discuss possible solutions to keep you cool on the road.

Refrigerant Leaks: The Silent Culprit: One of the most common problems is refrigerant leaks. Over time, seals and connections in the air conditioning system can wear out, leading to leaks. Reduced refrigerant levels compromise the system's ability to cool the air effectively. Solution: Identifying and repairing the leak is crucial. Once fixed, the system should be recharged with the correct amount of refrigerant.
Faulty Compressor: The Heart of the System: The compressor is the heart of the system, responsible for pressurizing and circulating the refrigerant. When the compressor fails, the entire system suffers, leading to warm air blowing from the vents. Solution: Replacement of the compressor is often necessary. Regular maintenance and addressing unusual noises or performance issues promptly can help prevent compressor failure.
Clogged or Restricted Condenser: Hindered Heat Dissipation: The condenser, located at the front of the vehicle, plays a vital role in dissipating heat from the refrigerant. Over time, it can become clogged with dirt, debris, or bugs, reducing its efficiency. Solution: Regularly clean the condenser and surrounding areas to ensure proper airflow. In severe cases, professional cleaning or condenser replacement may be required.
Faulty Blower Motor: Hindered Airflow: The blower motor is responsible for moving air through the AC system and into the cabin. A malfunctioning blower motor can result in weak or no airflow, even if the components are working correctly. Solution: If the blower motor is faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced. Regularly replacing the cabin air filter can also prevent strain on the blower motor.
Electrical Issues: The Wiring Conundrum: Electrical problems, such as damaged wiring or faulty switches, can disrupt the proper functioning of the air conditioning system. These issues may manifest as intermittent cooling or a complete failure of the system. Solution: A thorough inspection of the electrical components, including wiring and switches, is necessary. Professional diagnosis and repairs may be required to address complex electrical issues.
Evaporator Issues: Cooling Coil Conundrum: The evaporator, located inside the car's HVAC system, is responsible for cooling the air before it enters the cabin. Issues such as leaks, clogs, or corrosion can hinder the evaporator's performance. Solution: Diagnosing and addressing evaporator issues often requires professional expertise. Regular system maintenance can help identify potential problems before they escalate.

Conclusion: A well-functioning car AC system is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, especially during warm weather. By understanding these common problems and their solutions, car owners can take proactive measures to prevent issues and address them promptly when they arise. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and professional diagnosis are key elements in ensuring that your car's AC system keeps you cool and comfortable on the road. Don't let cooling woes turn your drive into a hot and bothered journey—stay informed and keep your car AC in top-notch condition.

Unveiling 6 Common Car AC Problems and Solutions

6 Common Car AC Problems and Solutions