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Posts Tagged ‘Car Maintenance’

Fuel Injection Systems, known as ( FIS) are part of the fuel pump. Located next to – or often within – the tank, it has two jobs. First, it must make sure enough gasoline is available for the injectors. Second, it needs to generate the right level of pressure so the injectors can deliver the proper amount of gas to the engine. If something goes wrong with this part, the issue can impact your vehicle’s performance and increase its level of emissions.

In this article, we’ll explore this component in detail. We’ll look at the potential problems that can occur and how to diagnose them. I’ll also provide insight about replacing the car parts that a lot of motorists might be surprised to learn.

Things That Can Go Wrong?

The purpose of your car’s FIS is to provide the precise amount of gasoline for any type of conditions in which the car engine is operating. The technological advances and precision level are the main attributes why fuel injection systems replaced the outdated carburetors. When the fuel pump fails to work properly, the injectors cannot add the right amount of gas to the mixture. As a result, your vehicle’s engine might run “too lean” or “too rich.” That can cause idling problems, a persistent stumble, power loss, or trouble during cold starts.

Running too lean or too rich can also lead to misfiring. When that happens, your vehicle will produce higher levels of emissions (i.e. hydrocarbons) which can potentially cause your car to fail a smog test.

Diagnosing Problems

Let’s suppose you’re noticing symptoms while driving that suggest the pump is failing. It’s possible that the issue is simply a bad connection. It’s also possible that your battery isn’t generating a sufficient charge to operate the fuel pump, so check the battery’s voltage output. If the problem is not related to a connection or a low charge coming from your battery, check the static pressure. If it doesn’t match what is listed in your owner’s manual, you’ll probably need to replace the component.

Replacing The Unit

The first thing you’ll need to do is to make sure the replacement car part is a good match for your vehicle. Just because it fits does not mean it’s appropriate. Again, look at your owner’s manual. It should list the proper specifications that your car’s fuel pump must meet. If you change and install a miss matched part for your car model, it will work. However, you’ll probably notice performance issues.

The industry has undergone a fair amount of consolidation in recent years. As a result, a lot of fuel pumps are sold in a “one size fits all” configuration. Realize that this configuration may not meet your automakers standards. When the time comes to replace the part, make sure it meets original equipment parts (OE) specifications. That way, you can be sure that the replacement doesn’t cause your engine to run too lean or too rich.

As the economy continues to suffer, the selling of used Honda parts and other used car parts has now become widespread because the savings are tremendous and the quality remains high.

You have to be careful though or you could get taken. And that’s why one of the best places for buying used parts is the Internet…when you know what to look for and the sites to trust.

The junk yard can serve you because they offer a wide variety of used auto parts but the quality and guarantees are spotty at best.

Getting used Honda parts has always been a process treated with skepticism. People misconstrue and believe recycled auto parts are unreliable and that they may konk out after only a few days or worse be dead on arrival.

But lately, companies are changing their policies and increasing the quality and testing which provides assurances to you before buying. The parts undergo thorough testing, which proves their quality and helps you rest more comfortably. These Honda parts are molded again in their new shape which makes it extremely hard to identify the old ones from the new ones.

These days, the Internet has become the latest vessel for buying all types of products including used Honda parts and other types of used car parts. So, for getting cheap and high-quality used auto parts, the Internet has come of age and is more than a handy option because the quality remains and you get the product shipped right to your door.

So, now it becomes important to select the right site for buying and getting the parts at affordable rates.

Some of your buying decisions are based on:

1. Easy Buying Procedure: In today’s world every human being faces the problem of lack of time so you want it to be dead simple and fast.

2. Wide variety of Products to cover the majority of your potential customers.

3. Security and Safety: You feel comfortable that you can purchase excellent quality used car parts. And look for an iron-clad guarantee so your site visitors have no hesitation entering their credit card information and hitting the buy button.

Purchasing used car parts in working condition is much better than spending all the money for a new Honda car or even new Honda parts at retail prices.

You cost include shipping , transportation and other overhead costs that are tacked on by retailers.

This is where recycled parts purchased through reputed online sites are reliable and also maintenance free. And you can get more life out of the car you have already depreciated rather than throwing away good money on new cars and new parts.

With the advent of Internet, refurbished car parts are bought more now than ever before. This includes both foreign and domestic.

Even with the struggles Honda is having and the car dealers are having the maintenance and parts businesses are thriving. It’s one of the bright spots for auto dealerships.

Of course, savings is the major advantage of buying used Honda parts. New parts have much higher markups and profit margins than old. Are you willing top spend the money on a retail cost overhead?

Because online sellers operate with very low overhead, prices can be kept low and affordable for various auto parts including engines, alternators, and transmissions.

There is a big market worldwide for used auto parts.

I highly recommend purchasing used transmissions and engines because they’re reliable. Also used side panels and bumpers are other big ticket items you can save on without loss of function or looks.

Since online barriers to entry within the used auto parts business is low, many services have popped up opening a lot more choices for consumers. As well there’s lots of information you can research to guide you in making the right decision. The only thing left for you to do is read all required notices and terms and then make your choice.

Millions of people are fooled into accepting the myths by savvy marketing and untrustworthy mechanics. For example, the idea that your vehicle must have regular oil changes every 3,000 miles is an absolute falsehood. Similarly, your technician’s advice to have your radiator flushed once a year is more for his bottom line than for preserving your cooling system. Despite this, a lot of drivers spend unnecessary time and money following such advice.

Today, I’m going to describe 2 more common fallacies about car maintenance. These are myths that are perpetuated not only by your local mechanic, but by your dealership’s service technicians. Learn them and save your money.

#1 – Frequent Tune-Ups

Unless you’re driving a vehicle that was built when disco was still the rage, your car’s engine probably doesn’t need a tune-up. The service was performed in order to adjust the engine and moving car parts during a time when carburetors were installed in every model. The newer cars only need spark plug replacements rather then the old time traditional “tune-up”. And those just need to be replaced every 50,000 miles. Everything else – the ignition, fuel injection, and idling of the car engine – is controlled by computers.

Unfortunately, dealerships continue to tell their customers that they need to bring their vehicles in for a tune-up after 60,000 miles. It is not surprising. The bottom line is, it increases their profits.

#2 – New Air Filters

Think back to the last time you took your vehicle in for an oil change. Did the mechanic suggest a new air filter? Did he subtly imply that your car might sustain damage if you neglected to replace it? This is a common mistake. First, the air filter catches debris before it can enter the engine. Over an extended period of time, dust and dirt build up on the filter so that air will not pass through. At that point, it’s a good idea to replace it. But, it takes a long time for the air filter to reach that stage.

Of course, that doesn’t stop auto technicians from recommending the replacement every time you visit. From their perspective, you come to their shop ready to spend $20 on an oil change and end up spending $40. It’s in their best interests?

Auto Maintenance Education Saves Money

Your vehicle requires ongoing preventative maintenance. That’s what helps ensure that it will last. But, it’s too easy to waste valuable time and money following bad advice from mechanics and dealership technicians. Remember, their goal is to increase their sales; many of them are willing to do it at your expense.

Chances are, your vehicle doesn’t need regular tune-ups. Neither are you required to replace the air filters that the mechanic will mention every time. As always, follow your owners manual. It’s the best way to keep your car in great condition.

Your car needs regular servicing in order to continue running smoothly. The good news is that even though a mechanic can do everything for you, most of it can be done in your garage. We’re not talking about overhauling your engine or transmission. We’re referring to the little things that can influence your car’s performance, maneuverability, and handling over time. Below, I’ll provide a 6-step checklist that you can use to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top condition.

Step 1 – Check The Oil

Get used to checking your oil every few weeks. That way, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that your engine will remain well-lubricated while you’re driving. Often, engines will begin burning or consuming too much oil. Checking it periodically will help you keep on top of potential problems.

Step 2 – Check The Coolant

You should check your car’s coolant level regularly, especially if you drive for long distances. Keeping the reservoir filled is simple and easy, yet a majority of drivers neglect this act. if the levels decrease beyond their required limits, your automobile engine will become overheated. That can lead to expensive damage.

Step 3 – Inspect The Air Filter

Inspect your Air Filter each time you change the oil in your car. You are not required to replace it each time, but when it is dirty you will need to replace the part. The air filter catches debris before it can enter your engine. Over time, the accumulation of dirt and dust will prevent proper airflow.

Step 4 – Fill Up Your Power Steering Fluid

Sometimes, it’s easy to take your vehicle’s power steering for granted. But, the ease with which you turn your wheel requires that you keep the fluid level topped off. Examine this on a regular basis, at least once a month. Then, if the level seems low, look in your owner’s manual to check whether a particular type of fluid is recommended.

Step 5 – Repair Dents And Dings

Dents and dings, while unattractive, can lead to more serious problems like rust and corrosion. Unfortunately, being on the receiving end of these small blemishes is practically a foregone conclusion. As inconvenient as it is, getting them fixed can prevent costlier problems later.

Step 6 – Test The Lights

Most cars today are designed to warn the driver that one of the headlights is about to fail. The turn indicator will begin blinking rapidly before the light completely fails. To make sure that you haven’t missed the problem, get into the habit of checking your front and back lights every two weeks. The last thing you want is to find out one of your lights is broken while you’re driving in poor weather.

The six listed item are simple and easy to perform. These steps take just minutes of your time. By keeping on top of each of them, you can help ensure that your vehicle is operating properly. During your check up, if you see signs of other problems like engine oil burning, you should let a professional mechanic inspect your car. You can also save money by requesting used auto parts for some of your car part needs.

Each of us has gone through the experience of discovering our vehicle won’t start. We climb behind the wheel, turn the key, and feel the creeping sensation of dread as the engine refuses to roar to life. Usually, it happens when we’re in a rush. Even more discouraging than losing your main means of transportation is not knowing what is causing the problem. Is it the battery? The starter? The ignition switch?

Plenty of things can go wrong under your car’s hood which will immobilize it. The trick is knowing how to narrow down the culprit so you can either fix the problem or have your mechanic do it for you. We examine several of the potential reasons your vehicle will not start.

When The Car Engine Doesn’t Crank

If you turn the key and your engine fails to turn over, the problem is usually located in the ignition system, starter, or the battery. If your battery is the source of the issue, it may be because of low voltage or a bad connection between the poles and terminals. A low voltage problem can usually be fixed by jump starting your car and driving it for twenty minutes.

If your vehicle’s starter is at fault, check the wires first. If they’re clean and tight, the relay or solenoid may be bad. Otherwise, you may need to replace the entire starter. If your battery and starter are fine (your mechanic can test them for you), the problem is likely in the ignition system.

When The Auto Engine Does Crank

If the engine turns over when you turn the key in the ignition, but it doesn’t actually fire, the cause is a lack of spark, a lack of gas, or lack of sufficient compression. The fact that your engine is turning means that your battery is delivering voltage and your starter is being triggered.

You can purchase a spark testing device from most auto supply shops. Assuming there’s fuel in your gas tank, check to see whether your fuel pump is working properly. The vehicles which are rolling off the automakers floors today come equipped with fuel injection systems. Because the are more exact, there are also more prone to pressure variations. The most likely cause of fuel pressure problems are located with the fuel pump.

In order to check the compression level, special testing device is required. Most auto repair shops have the device for their own use, not for public use, so testing may require a paid visit to the local garage. The mechanic will probably remove the spark plugs in order to check all of the cylinders.

As noted above, some issues are easily solved. Others will require help from your auto technician. The next time the car doesn’t start, you have an idea of some of the causes, reasons and explanations.

When the weather is hot, most drivers roll up their windows and turn their vehicle’s air conditioner on. The cool air flows through the vents and the temperature inside the car’s interior drops. While the driver and his passengers may feel comfortable, his car may be on the verge of overheating.

One of the natural enemies to your vehicle's engine is heat. Too much of it will cause it to overheat which can lead to expensive damage. Fortunately, your car has a cooling system; its job is to keep the temperature of your engine within an acceptable range. The problem is that car parts within the system can wll eventually fail.

We will examine some of the issues and parts that are under constant stress in your auto's AC Cooling assembly. I’ll explain what you should check on a regular basis, and how to prevent your vehicle from overheating and leaving you stranded.

Parts Under Stress

A number of belts and hoses comprise the cooling assembly. The belts deliver power to your alternator, water pump, and A/C compressor. If one of those belts breaks, fails, or somehow becomes loose, it will not be able to trigger the part to which it sends power. That can potentially cause your vehicle to overheat.

The hoses funnel coolant to your radiator. That coolant is critical to managing the heat which surrounds your engine. Without it, the temperature would increase to the point of overheating. If any of those hoses crack, coolant would escape before reaching the radiator. As a result, it won't be available to absorb heat.

When you drive during the summer, the temperature under the hood can approach 300 degrees Fahrenheit. That intense heat can cause the belts and hoses of your cooling system to break or rupture. If you’re driving under stressful circumstances – for example, pulling a heavy load up a steep hill – your engine can easily overheat.

At-Home Or In-Garage Inspection

Visit your dealership’s service center or your local repair garage to have a mechanic look at your car’s belts and hoses. If any of them are worn, have them replaced. If you are familiar with your cars engine, you can inspect the belts and hoses personally. However, if there’s a chance that you might overlook a crack, small fissure, or any signs of extreme wear, ask a mechanic to take a look for you. It may cost a few dollars, but it will protect your car engine.

How To Prevent Overheating

Keep your eyes on your vehicle’s temperature gauge while driving. It can spike without warning, especially on hot days. If you see it rising, turn your A/C off, roll down your windows, and activate the heater. It may sound counterintuitive, but having the heater on will help lower the temperature around the engine. Also, if you’re driving in stressful conditions (up steep hills, etc.), turn your A/C off.

Even with all the auto improvements in design and technology to withstand heat, they can still cause a problem. Fortunately, with a little car maintenance, you can help your car stay cool and preserve the life of your engine.

By driving your car, your vehicle’s engine heats up. It can withstand a certain level of heat, but if the temperatures rise too high, the engine can become damaged. Your car has a cooling system to help make sure that doesn’t happen. The water pump is an important part of that system. It circulates coolant throughout your radiator and engine, and keeps the heat down. Unfortunately, like any of your car’s parts, it can fail. When it does, it cannot effectively manage the high temperatures that build around your engine.

In this article, I’ll explain how to replace your vehicle’s water pump. If you have never worked on your car, I recommend having a mechanic perform this job. It’s not difficult, but it can take a few hours and require a bit of experience.

The Preliminary Work

Before you replace it, you’ll need to drain the cooling system and get rid of the residual coolant. Place a large pan underneath the engine to drain the fluid. Next, take the drive belt off (you might need to remove the alternator). In order to gain access to the part, you may also need to take the pulley off.

Finally, take off the hoses which connect to the water pump. Keep in mind that hoses can deteriorate quickly. Since you’re removing them, now is a good opportunity to replace them. It won’t cost much and you’re taking them off anyway.

The Main Task

You’ll likely notice between six and eight bolts that are connecting the component to your car’s engine. In most cases, the bolts will be in two different sizes (automakers like to make these jobs tougher than they need to be). Several different wrenchs or a socket wrench set will be needed to remove the bolts.

Be aware of which bolts secure the parts before removing them. Then, once you have removed them, slip the water pump off the engine. Once it’s off, replace the gasket. Add sealer to make sure there is a tight bond. Next, install the new water pump and make sure that it aligns properly with the new gasket.

Screw all the bolts back in place manually before securing tightly with yoru wrench. This way you make sure it is evnely tightened for a secure fit. Connect the hoses and begin to replace any parts.e. alternator) that you needed to remove to gain access. Once everything is put back together properly, add new coolant to the cooling system.

Start your car and let it idle for a few minutes to allow the temperature to rise. Also, look underneath the body to make sure there are no leaks. Then, take the car for a 10 mintue test drive and look for signs of overheating.

Replacing your water pump is not a quick job. As noted, I recommend that most people ask their auto technician to handle it. That said, with a little patience, a few tools, and some experience, you can perform the job yourself.

Being Savvy With Car Maintenance 

Some auto maintenance tasks are critical to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and lasts a long time. For example, getting oil changes every 5,000 miles, keeping the right amount of pressure in your tires, and changing your air filter occasionally are important. That said, there are plenty of car maintenance items that are a waste of your time and money.

The problem is that dealership service centers and local repair garages often give advice that is suspect. Much of what they say is to increase their sales rather than making sure your vehicle operates properly.

Because ongoing car maintenance is so important to the life of your vehicle, I’ll describe the tasks you should be doing as well as those which you can do without.

Mind Your Tires

Despite the myriad of parts under the hood, your tires on the only parts that actually contact the ground (hopefully). Be sure to check you vehicles tire pressure monthly. Tires leak over time; they need to be filled. If they’re underinflated, the treads will wear down and you’ll end up replacing them far sooner than normal. Also, rotate them occasionally. The tires in the rear have more longevity than those in the front. Rotating them keeps the tread wear even.

Tune-Ups: Are They Necessary

If you’re driving a vehicle that is less than 10 years old, you probably don’t need a tune-up. The point of a tune-up is to adjust and recalibrate mechanical parts. These days, most of the parts (i.e. oxygen sensor, ignition switch, fuel injection system, etc.) are computer operated. As a result, there is very little to “tune up.”

Regular Oil Changes

Years ago, when engines were less sophisticated and motor oil was less advanced, a trip to the oil change shop every 3,000 miles was a good idea. However, that’s no longer the case. Today’s cars only need to have the oil changed every 5,000 miles.

Maintain Your Brakes

Every time you press down on your brake pedal, your brakes experience a little wear and tear. If you neglect them long enough, you’ll eventually hear a painful grinding sound as exposed metal rubs against other metal. Visit a repair shop as soon as you notice any problems. If you catch it early enough, you may only need to have the pads replaced. When you hear grinding sounds, the rotor more than likely is bad and needs to be replaced.

Change Your Air Filter

Your air filter has an important job: it needs to catch dirt and debris before it enters your car’s engine. Every time you are on the road, it performs it's job dilegently. The problem is that it gets clogged with debris over time. When that happens, air flow becomes restricted which can affect your engine’s performance.

Check the air filter each time you change the oil. The dirtier the streets on which you drive, the more quickly debris will accumulate. They’re inexpensive, so they can be replaced without breaking the bank.

While the car runs smoothly today, all car parts eventually degrade and need replacement due to the wear and tear. Invest time on the auto maintenance tasks above to make sure your vehicle lasts as long as possible.