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How can you know if your car needs a new car battery? 

The following are ways that your existing car battery was telling you that it didn’t have another jump left in it: 

• Age: The average car battery has a lifespan between 3 and 5 years. Most batteries have a label on top with the month and year it was installed. Or, you can have the voltage checked and any reading less than 12.6 indicates the battery’s health is aging and you need a car battery replacement.  
• Won’t Start: When a car is slow to start one morning, and then again, and again, go back to the step we just mentioned and get your budget ready for a car battery replacement. 
• Frequent Jump Starts: If the scenario we mentioned above has happened frequently, it is time for a car battery replacement. However, if you’re still having to get a jump start after the new battery is installed, have your mechanic inspect the electrical system. There may be a problem with the alternator or other electrical components.
• Slow Turnover: If the engine takes a long time to start, it may be a battery issue. And if a new car battery replacement doesn’t fix this problem, have your mechanic inspect the electrical system. 
• Bad Smells: If you notice a bad smell coming from the existing battery, it is time for a new car battery replacement.  
• Bulging Battery: If the existing car battery case is bulging, this indicates that it is close to rupturing, which can be a dangerous fire hazard. Do not attempt to start the car or have it jump-started. Take it to your mechanic for a car battery replacement. 

What does a car battery replacement cost? 

The cost of a car battery replacement can vary based on the brand, quality, size, and the cranking power. The cost will also depend on where you purchase the car battery replacement, and if you install your own or have it installed.  A new battery can start around $150 and could be as expensive as $500. Some places that install car battery replacements won’t charge for a battery purchased from them, such as your local auto parts store. 

Do the less expensive car batteries work?

Absolutely, but you probably won’t get as long of a lifespan from a less expensive battery. But, when you need a car battery replacement at the worst time of the monthly budget, the less expensive battery gets you back on the road again.

Can you install your car battery replacement?

Yes, most car owners can install their car battery replacement. The biggest challenge for many is the weight of the existing and new batteries, they can be hard to lift. The following steps will walk you through installing your car battery replacement:

1. Turn the engine off and raise the hood. 
2. Detach the negative battery cable from the battery by loosening the nut with pliers or a wrench. 
3. Using gloved hands, simultaneously twist and pull the end of the cable. If it doesn’t come easily, there are battery terminal pullers available at the same place you buy your car battery replacement.
4. Next, detach the positive battery cable in the same method.
5. Using a ratchet, socket, or wrench, remove the hold-down clamp over the battery.
6. Remove the battery (the heavy part comes!) using both hands. Some batteries have a handle that can make this easier.
7. Mix together baking soda and water to make a cleaning solution and pour over the battery cable ends using a wire brush. 
8. Position the new car battery replacement in the batter and secure the hold-down clamp.
9. The new battery should come with an anti-corrosion solution that goes over the terminal ends.
10. Attach the positive battery cable and then the negative battery cable.
11. After ensuring all cable connections and the hold-down bracket are properly tightened and secure, start the car. 

Can a car be started without a battery?

No, there must be a power source of 10 to 15 volts to start a car. However, you can jump-start the car without the battery using these steps: 

1. Attach the jumper cables to the positive terminal first of the running car’s battery post and to the battery cable directly of the car without a battery. 
2. Now, attach the negative cables and terminals in the same manner.  
3. Make sure all of the auxiliaries are turned off, including the lights, heater, radio, and other accessories.   
4. With everything connected, attempt to start the battery-less car. If it doesn’t start, start the car with the battery and then try again. 

In Closing 

It is important to have your current battery inspected by a professional, usually during your regular oil change. In this manner, you can be certain that a professional has examined it and will give you any advice if they see a need for a new car battery replacement before the existing one conks out unexpectedly. 

Keep Your Car in Tip-Top Shape with Help from Rolling Auto Service

Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Test the battery’s voltage and replace it if it shows signs of weakness or is nearing the end of its lifespan, typically every 3 to 5 years.

Check spark plugs for signs of wear, such as fouling or erosion, and replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Fresh spark plugs improve engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Check belts and hoses for signs of wear, cracking, or fraying, and replace them as needed. Replace timing belts according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals to prevent engine damage.

Regularly check fluid levels, including power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid, and top off or replace fluids as needed to ensure proper vehicle operation.

Check headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly to maintain visibility and safety on the road.

Inspect suspension and steering components, including shocks, struts, ball joints, and tie rods, for signs of wear or damage. Replace worn components to maintain vehicle stability and handling.

Regularly wash and wax the exterior of your vehicle to protect the paint finish from environmental damage, such as UV rays, road salt, and debris. Clean the interior regularly to maintain cleanliness and prevent stains and odors.

Keep detailed records of all maintenance and repairs performed on your vehicle, including dates, mileage, and services rendered. This information helps track maintenance intervals and provides documentation for warranty claims or resale. By following this preventative maintenance checklist and addressing issues promptly, you can protect your investment, maintain your vehicle’s performance, and ensure safe and reliable transportation for years to come. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your vehicle but also helps prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. We can help. Call 941-493-6511 today.

What is the EGR Valve?

The EGR valve is a part of the exhaust system in all modern internal combustion engines. The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) is how the emissions that are released are controlled. The EGR valve allows harmful gas to return through the intake system after it changes the chemical composition. In short, it is one way car manufacturers have taken to improve air pollution. 

When should EGR be serviced?

The recommendation of most car manufacturers is to have a professional EGR valve replacement service, i.e., cleaning, performed every 50,000 miles. Why is this EGR valve replacement service necessary? Because it is a part of how the emissions are controlled, helps the fuel economy, and your car will have better performance. 

How many miles should an EGR valve last?

There isn’t a standard answer to this, but mechanics that provide EGR valve replacement service is recommended between 40,000 miles and no later than 50,000 miles. If you wait longer than 40,000 to 50,000 miles, some indications that your car needs EGR valve replacement service include: 

• High Emissions: High emissions are a direct result of an EGR valve not doing its job, which means you won’t be able to pass an emissions test. This happens when the valve gets stuck open, allowing too much exhaust gas to enter the intake manifold. The combustion of the engine becomes inefficient and your car will release unburned hydrocarbon gases. If the EGR valve is closed, the combustion temperatures get too hot and increase in NOxes that escape through the exhaust.

• Fuel Consumption: If your car is using more fuel than usual, you may need to schedule an EGR valve replacement service. 

• Idling Rough: When your car is idling, if it is bouncing and shaking, this could be caused by a malfunctioning EGR valve. Replacement service will get the bouncing and shaking stopped. 

• Knocking Sounds: When there are knocking sounds coming from the engine, it could be out of oil, or it could need EGR valve replacement service. When the EGR valve is closed, the fuel will ignite due to the internal temperature getting too high inside the engine. 

While these things can indicate your car needs EGR valve replacement service, it can also indicate other problems as well.  An experienced mechanic will inspect the situation and ascertain the problem. 

How much is an EGR valve replacement service?

The average cost for EGR valve replacement service can vary from car to car and garage to garage. A common estimation starts around $400 and goes up from there.  The labor portion of that amount can start around $100 with the remaining amount being the EPG valve. 

Is an EGR valve replacement service a difficult job?

For a mechanically inclined DIY person or a professional garage, it is a straightforward job. In general, the steps include: 

• Remove the engine cover to gain access to the EGR valve
• Loosen the electrical cable connected to the valve
• Remove any other electrical connections (note if there is faulty wiring)
• Remove the screws that fasten the EGR valve
• Examine the valve for carbon buildup and corrosion
• Clean the area around where the old EGR valve was located
• Line the new EGR valve and install
• Reattach the electrical wires and connections

 When having a professional EGR valve replacement service, the mechanic is inspecting other components around the area, especially for issues with the electrical wiring. For an experienced mechanic, it can be completed within an hour in most cases. Additionally, having the work done by a professional will give you a warranty in case there is issue after the EGR valve replacement has been completed. 

In Closing

Your car has exhibited some of the indications we’ve mentioned, but you don’t have the finances or time to take the car in for EGR valve replacement service. Is it OK to drive with a bad EGR valve?

While it won’t harm the engine, it will affect your gas mileage and perhaps lessen the engine power. The biggest effect that a malfunctioning EGR valve is on the environment. With that being said, it is important to minimize your carbon footprint and do your part to minimize air pollution, get your car’s EGR valve replacement serviced as soon as possible. Our team is here to help with your EGR valve replacement service in Venice, FL! You can reach our team at our office number, 941-493-6511.

What is an engine overhaul?

The engine in your car is the center of everything that makes your car move. While it may look like a big hunk of metal to most of us, it is an intricate machine that converts the engine’s heat from burning gas to energy that forces the wheels to turn. This may be a simplified explanation, but suffice it to say that the engine is essential, so when it begins to fail, getting it fixed and back on the road is also crucial, and this is where an engine overhaul may be the best solution. 

An engine overhaul is deconstructing the existing engine and putting it back together with new internal components and parts. This includes the: 

• Cylinders
• Valves
• Springs
• Gaskets

… and more

How do you know if your car needs an engine overhaul?

If you are experiencing any of the following issues, you should have your car’s engine inspected by a mechanic to determine if an engine overhaul is needed. Once they have inspected the engine, they can advise whether an engine overhaul is the best solution. Those issues include: 

• Warning Lights: If warning lights are illuminated, don’t wait for something terrible to happen—schedule an appointment with the mechanic immediately. Those warning lights are connected to sensors that read how the engine and other components run. When the warning lights are on, many possible problems can occur, and an engine overhaul may be necessary to fix the problem. 
• Rough Jerking: A car should run smoothly while driving. If your car is jerking, stalling, or surging roughly, this could indicate something is wrong with the engine. Something as simple as replacing the spark plugs or the fuel lines may be needed to fix the issue, though the problem may be something more serious that requires an engine overhaul. 
• Loud Sounds: If you hear a popping or tapping sound as you drive, it is often a problem with the cylinders. An engine overhaul is often recommended to fix this. 
• Odors: If you notice a foul odor as you drive, it could be the engine overheating or an oil leak. Your mechanic can determine the problem and recommend what should be done to fix it.
• Smoking: If your car’s engine smokes or excessive smoke comes from the tailpipe, have your mechanic perform an inspection. There may be a small oil leak, which can be easy to fix, or a more serious issue if oil is pouring out from any part of the engine. An engine overhaul can usually fix this problem. 

How much does an engine overhaul cost?

Many factors can determine the cost of an engine overhaul. The first consideration is the size and type of engine being overhauled, which depends on your car’s make, model, and year.

Other considerations include which components must be replaced and how many. With some jobs, the mechanic can clean, make adjustments, and reuse some parts. Other times, parts like the gaskets need to be replaced. These are all factors that can affect the overall cost of the job.

Is a car engine overhaul a significant repair?

Yes, a car engine overhaul is a significant repair procedure. It can be intimidating for the non-mechanic, but a well-trained, experienced professional will know precisely how and what to do. 

How can you prevent the need for an engine overhaul?

Every engine problem won’t always lead to an engine overhaul, but you can do some things to extend the lifespan of your car. Keeping the recommended maintenance schedule from your mechanic and the car manufacturer is essential! This means having oil changes, transmission screen changes, and flushes and using high-quality gasoline. 

Is an engine overhaul worthwhile?

Though everyone has their own opinion, most people will tell you getting an engine overhaul is superior to getting a new car engine. Why? Because the parts used are older designed parts. Many parts designed today are different than the OEM parts and don’t work as well in many cases. This is in addition to the fact that an engine overhaul is more affordable than buying a new car engine. 

Get Your Motor Running! 

Feel confident if you’re heading out on the highway with a car equipped with an overhauled engine. An engine overhaul will be a dependable engine backed by the mechanic who did the work and the parts supplier. As long as you follow the maintenance program recommended by the engineer, you should receive many miles of happy motoring! For more information about getting an engine overhaul in Venice, FL or the surrounding area, we invite you to contact us. Call 941-493-6511 today.

What issues does the CEL sense?

When sensors in the engine and transmission identify there is a problem, signals are sent to the check engine light, causing it to illuminate. Several possible problems can cause this to happen, which is the indicator to the driver to have a check engine light inspection done by their mechanic. Some of those possible problems are: 

• Loose or worn gas cap
• An internal issue within the engine
• An issue with the catalytic converter
• Faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or spark plug wires
• Oxygen sensor malfunctioning
• Mass airflow sensor damaged or malfunctioning
• Bad gasoline

Will an illuminated check engine light cause a vehicle to fail state inspection?

Yes, if the CEL is illuminated on the dashboard, a vehicle will fail the state vehicle inspection in the state of Florida, as it will in other states. For a vehicle to pass, the car should be taken to a mechanic for a check engine light inspection to identify the problem. 

Can a mechanic turn the CEL off? 

Yes, when a vehicle is taken to a mechanic for a check engine light inspection, it will turn off automatically when the problem is resolved. A mechanic can also deactivate the CEL manually. After that, if the check engine sensor doesn’t pick up any more signals, the CEL will remain off.

What does a clear engine light inspection cost?

Every mechanic shop has different rates, some are by the hour, and some charge a flat rate for a specific job. In the Venice, Florida area, a check engine light inspection can range between $100 and $300. This will allow the mechanic to get a complete diagnostic report to pinpoint the problem and provide a recommended solution. 

How long should you wait after resetting the engine light before having the state inspection?

In general, after the mechanic has completed a check engine light inspection and cleared the computer, the car will need to be driven between fifty and one hundred miles. In most cases, this will turn the CEL off permanently, but if not, then the car should be inspected by the mechanic again, or another mechanic for a second opinion. 

Some factors that can affect how quickly the CEL deactivates include:

• The overall size of the vehicle
• The condition of the vehicle
• The MPG the vehicle gets

Why does the vehicle need to be driven after deactivating the CEL? 

This allows the onboard computer to scan the sensors and confirm the coding is back to its original settings.  If after driving the car for specified mileage and time, the check engine light comes back on, the mechanic will need to perform a check engine light inspection again, perhaps go further into the inspection to find the cause. 

What is the most common reason for an illuminated CEL?

If the check engine light illuminates on your vehicle dashboard, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Simply check the gas cap is securely closed, and if that doesn’t deactivate the CEL, then purchase a new gas cap.  If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your mechanic for a check engine light inspection. 

Can I clear my check engine light before inspection?

If your car fails a Florida state inspection because the CEL is illuminated, you can clear the codes that will deactivate the light by resetting it using an OBD device, (On Board Device). An OBD device can be purchased at most auto parts stores or online. However, without doing a thorough check engine light inspection and fixing the cause, the CEL may come back, and the underlying issue will still show in the state inspection process. 

In Conclusion

The check engine light can be irritating for a driver, but it should also cause concern. With all the possibilities of problems that the check engine light could be indicating, getting a check engine light inspection done as soon as possible is recommended.  It may be a small issue like a bad gas cap, or it could indicate a more serious issue within the engine. Some of those serious issues could be any of the following: 

• The oxygen sensor
• The mass airflow sensor
• The thermostat catalytic converter 

Any of these things will require the experience of a mechanic to perform a check engine light inspection to diagnose the matter, and make any repairs or replacements needed. 

Is the cost of a check engine light inspection worthwhile? Especially if you only have one vehicle. For your vehicle to pass inspection, the inspection and the repairs are a must. Do you need a check engine light inspection in Venice, FL? If so, give us a call at __PHONE__ today!

What is an engine overhaul?

The engine is the centerpiece of your car. It is an intricate piece of machinery that converts heat from the gasoline it’s burning into a force that makes it go, along with other components and parts.  

There is a chain of reaction that makes this happen is started by a spark that ignites a mixture of the gas with compressed air inside a cylinder that is momentarily sealed, and then it burns that gasoline.  As that mixture burns, it creates the power that motivates the car. Confused? 

If you’re not a mechanical person, it can sound complicated. When an engine quits function as we just described, a trained mechanic can do an engine overhaul, i.e., give it life again, and get it going again. 

Essentially, an engine overhaul is the process of taking the existing engine apart and putting it back together with new parts on the inside. This involves installing new cylinders, springs, valves, and more. 

Is an engine overhaul a major repair?

There are different terms used in the auto industry when talking about an engine overhaul. For instance, some mechanic shops may refer to it as an ‘in-chassis’ rebuild, which is where the mechanic doesn’t take the entire engine out of the car to rebuild it. They only replace the components on the top part of the engine which includes the following parts: 

• Cylinder lining
• Pistons rings
• All of the pistons

This type of engine overall, in-chassis rebuild, will get the engine back in good shape and performing better than it was. While this may seem like a major repair to the non-mechanical person, to a mechanic, it isn’t as a major repair job as an extensive engine rebuild.

An extensive engine rebuild, however, is considered a major repair. This type of engine overhaul requires the mechanic to remove the entire engine out of the car body. The mechanic then takes every component and part off, including bolts and nuts. All removable parts are then cleaned and replaced or new OEM parts are purchased and installed. This is the more expensive option. 

How long can an engine last after an overhaul?

This can vary from engine to engine and driver to driver because how you drive your car has the biggest impact. If the engine overhaul is done properly, and you keep the oil changed as recommended by the mechanic, you get another 10,000 miles on an engine that has been overhauled.  Keep in mind that the mileage also includes idling time.

How long does an engine overhaul take?

The engine overhaul process can take up to a week for the mechanic to complete the task. If the mechanic has any issues getting parts, it can take longer. 

How much does an engine overhaul cost?

An engine overhaul can cost between $25,000 and $50,000, depending on the make and model of the car and the type of engine. So, it is worth having an engine overhauled? That is a personal decision to be made with the owner and their mechanic. 

Is it worth it to overhaul an engine?

For a classic car, the owner will usually be willing to pay what it takes to get it back on the road headed to car shows! For a daily driver, and engine overhaul for a car that didn’t even cost $20,000,  you probably wouldn’t want to make that level of investment. 

What is the disadvantage of an engine overhaul?

The advantages gained from an engine overhaul far outweigh the disadvantages in the opinion of a classic car owner.  For the everyday car owners, some disadvantages to consider include: 

• The Expense: An engine overhaul is an expensive endeavor, not something that everyone who has a  daily driver can afford. 

• Challenging: An engine overhaul can be challenging for an inexperienced person. It is always best to have this done by somebody who knows car engines. 

• Performance: In most cases, an engine overhaul will perform as good, or better, than it did before. Some say it is just as good as a brand-new engine. 

Are there any indications that your car may be ready for an engine overhaul? 

Yes, the following are indications that you should get your car checked out by a mechanic. They can advise you if you need an engine rebuild, an engine overhaul, or it is just done: 

• Unusual warning lights illuminate typically because the computer sensors are telling you something is wrong. 
• Rough jerking, surging, or stalling are indications that something isn’t running right with the engine. If your car isn’t running smoothly, an engine overhaul may be needed. 
• Any loud sounds like popping or tapping while you’re driving could be coming from the cylinders. Don’t waste any time getting it checked by a mechanic for a possible engine overhaul. 
• Any odd odors and smells are another indication that something is wrong with the engine. It may just be an oil leak, but it could also be more severe. 

Get The Motor Running! 

An engine overhaul will typically last up to 10,000 miles or more if the overhaul job is done correctly. The average time frame between engine overhauls is between 500,000 to 100,000 miles. If you’re interested in an engine overhaul in Venice, FL, our team can be there to help. Give us a call at 941-493-6511 to learn more about the options available to you.

So, just what does that check engine light mean? 

On cars manufactured today, the check engine light is the computer’s way of telling you something is wrong with the engine or transmission. There can be a variety of things within these two components that could cause this. 

What is the most common reason for the check engine light to illuminate?

There can be a simple issue like the gas cap being bad or loose. It can also be a more complex and serious matter inside the engine or transmission. In addition to the gas cap being the cause for an illuminated check engine light, other possible problems are:  

• Bad Oxygen Sensor

A bad oxygen sensor will trigger the check engine light. The oxygen sensor, also referred to as the O2 sensor, measures the unburnt oxygen in the car’s exhaust system and sends that information to the OBC (onboard computer) that regulates the air and fuel mixture entering the cylinders. If this sensor is bad, the car burns more gas than necessary. 

• Bad Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is a part of the exhaust system and when it is failing or is gone, the carbon monoxide that is generated during the process of turning it into carbon dioxide. An illuminated check engine light indicates the car should be inspected, making sure this part is in place and testing it. 

• Bad Spark Plug or Ignition Coil

The ignition coil is what generates electricity for the spark plugs, causing the engine to start and the air and fuel to mix before going into the cylinders. When the ignition coil or the spark plugs are bad, it illuminates the check engine light. If the spark plug wires are bad, this can trigger the check engine light too. 

• Bad Mass Airflow Sensor

The MAF (mass airflow sensor) monitors the amount of air entering the engine as a part of the engine management system. This helps a car adjust to altitude changes and when it is failing, the car will have a rough idle, can be hard to start, and affects how the gas pedal reacts. The gas mileage decreases and the car may stall while sitting at a light. 

• A Vacuum Leak

The vacuum system in a car engine has a lot of different functions. The brakes are vacuum-operated, and the emission system is affected by the vacuum system by routing the fumes after the gasoline evaporates through the engine. 

What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?

Check the gas cap.  A loose or missing gas cap allows a vapor leakage which triggers the check engine light. Immediately replacing the cap may not turn the light off, you may need to let it sit overnight before driving the car. 

Is it OK to drive with the check engine light on?

As long as it starting and running, yes, you can keep driving a car with an illuminated check engine light. But it isn’t recommended to drive any further than needed to get to a mechanic.  You can check the gas cap yourself, but anything more than that should be inspected by a trained mechanic. 

Why is the engine light on but the car still runs fine?

Because the OBC (onboard computer) is working overtime!  Even if your car is running okay with the check engine light illuminated, that typically doesn’t mean there isn’t anything wrong. It is still recommended to have a mechanic inspect the car and eliminate any possibilities. The OBC will keep working overtime to compensate for whatever the problem may be, but eventually, even the computer will quit working.

How bad is a solid check engine light?

A solid check engine light is typically a minor issue, like the gas cap or spark plugs. A flashing check engine light is associated with more severe issues like: 

• Engine Misfiring 
• Fuel Injector clogged or damaged
• EGR Valve clogged or damaged
• Insufficient Air getting to the engine
• Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs Failing
• Alternator or Battery Failing

In Closing

Next to the gasoline, the next most common product needed by an engine is the motor oil.  While the gas gauge will tell you that you need gasoline, the check engine light can be triggered when the car is low on oil, or completely out of oil. Without oil, the internal parts of the engine will begin rubbing together, causing friction, and eventually quit altogether. 

What signs indicate that my car’s air conditioning system needs servicing? 

If you’re experiencing any of the following, schedule an appointment with your trusted mechanic for air conditioning service: 

• The Airflow is Weak

When the airflow from the vents is weak, that usually indicates that air is not getting to the vents. First, make sure the vents are opened and if they are, there may be mildew or mold built up on the evaporator core, the blower hose is loose, or the blower fan may not be operating. 

Other possible problems could be more detailed like any of the various seals within the system are blown. A professional car air conditioning service technician will have the knowledge of how and equipment to check these various things and narrow down the problem.

• Warm Air 

If the air coming from the vents isn’t cold, you should have the system checked by a professional car air conditioning service tech. Some of the possible problems can be a hose or tube is clogged, or any of the numerous components within the system have quit working. Those components include the blower motor, resistor, compressor, condenser, evaporator, fuse, or switch. 

It could also be from a freon leak or vacuum leak. These leaks could have been happening for some time, so when the air starts blowing warm, it needs the attention of a car air conditioning service tech immediately before the complete system burns up. 

• Cool Air that Gets Warm

If your car air conditioner gets warm after blowing cool for a short time, it could be because the expansion valve is blocked, keeping the refrigerant from flowing into the evaporator. It may be the compressor clutch has gone out and isn’t maintaining the right pressure, a blown fuse, or a refrigerant leak. A professional car air conditioning service tech can narrow down the problem and make repairs or replacements as needed.

• A Foul Smell

A foul smell coming from the vents can indicate a leak in the system, the air filter should be replaced, the air vents or evaporator case has mold built up, or even a rodent has died under the hood of your car.  If it is a burning smell you’ve noticed, it could be compressor wiring is overheating or has burnt. Your car air conditioning service tech will be able to inspect the system and determine the problem. 

• Strange Sound

Unusual sounds like rattling when the air conditioning is turned may be the system is clogged by debris, a simple fix, or it could be the fan belt or the condenser has broken. These are things your car air conditioning service tech can determine while inspecting the system.

What is air conditioning refrigerant and why is it important? 

Today’s car air conditioner works by changing refrigerant between liquid form and gas-like form. As that change takes place, heat and humidity from the car are absorbed and cool air is pulled into the cabin of the car. And when that air isn’t cool, or quits blowing, is where professional car air conditioning service may be needed. 

Cooling It All Down to the Dollar

Is car air conditioning service expensive? The cost of a car air conditioning service will depend on a few different factors. Those factors that can affect the cost of the service are: 

• Year, make, and model of the car.
• The problem the technician finds.
• If parts have to be replaced instead of repaired.

And every car air conditioning service shop will have different rates as well.  As long as the compressor of your car air conditioning system is working, the entire system should last between 8 and 10 years. 

Rolling Auto Service provides car air conditioning service in Venice, FL for your convenience. Give us a call at 941-493-6511 to get started. 

How Do I Know When an Alternator Needs to be Replaced?

The following are indications that you should have your mechanic schedule an alternator replacement:

• Lights dim or flickering
• Car having trouble starting 
• Onboard dash lights illuminated 
• Loud, grinding noises from the alternator 
• Car is dead and won’t jump
• Smell something burning 
• Strange sounds coming from the engine area
• Power loss while driving 
• Electrical components not functioning

What Can Cause an Alternator to Fail? 

There are a lot of bearings and other moving parts inside an alternator. They are subjected to hot temperatures and collect dirt. That dirt causes those moving internal components to wear out, resulting in the alternator quitting. Other things that can cause you to need alternator replacement are:

• Jump-starting wrong 
• Installing an accessory wrong or that requires too much power
• Fluids leaking from the alternator
• The belt is too tight

How Long Does an Alternator Typically Last?

Most alternators last between 80,000 miles and 150,000 miles, equivalent to 7 years for most people with average driving distances before needing an alternator replacement. 

What are the Consequences of Driving with a Bad Alternator? 

The alternator is a crucial part of your car’s electrical system. As soon as you notice any of the indications that we listed above, you need to have a mechanic check all electrical and other components. Typically, once any of these things begin, you have a maximum of 30 minutes to drive.  

This is why you shouldn’t keep driving around once you have any of the listed indications. Keep driving with a bad alternator can cause other damage to the electrical system, starting with draining the battery. 

What Happens if an Alternator Fails Completely? 

When an alternator goes out completely, you won’t be going anywhere. The battery gets its power from the alternator, so if it isn’t functioning, the battery is the only power to the car. Again, a car won’t drive more than 30 minutes after the alternator is dead. You’ll need to have your car towed to the mechanic for alternator replacement and maybe more repairs or replacements. 

What are the Diagnostic Tests for an Alternator? 

A professional mechanic will use a voltmeter to check if an alternator replacement is needed. A car owner that is in tune with their car can try some ‘shade tree mechanic’ trick to check the basic condition of the alternator. The following are the steps to follow:  

• Gauge It: With an amp/volt gauge, read the output from the alternator with the engine running at 2,000 rpm. Testing the AC blower fan, the headlamps, and other electric accessories that will strain the alternator. If the gauge shows a decrease in the amps, you’ll need an alternator replacement.

With the engine still running, use the voltmeter to retest the battery. If the voltage has varying RPM and creates fluctuating volts between 13 volts and 14.5 volts, the alternator is good. If it doesn’t fluctuate or drop, you’ll need an alternator replacement. 

Repeat this process with the air conditioner, lights, and radio on. If the volts are at 13 or higher and the engine is revving at 2,000 rpm with these accessories on, the alternator is in good condition and not the problem. 

• Listen: With the engine running, listen to the alternator. If you hear a squealing sound coming from under the hood, and it gets louder when the lights or radio are on, you’ll need an alternator replacement. 

• The Radio: With the engine revved up, turn the radio on a low AM band station. If there is whining coming from the radio, or the screen with the radio stations goes blurry, you need an alternator replacement. 

Why Do Car Batteries and Alternators Need to be Replaced?

Nothing lasts forever, including car alternators and batteries. Alternator replacements and battery replacements are a part of routine car maintenance. While you shouldn’t have to do these weekly, the alternator replacement is usually within 7 years, and the battery within 3 years for most cars.  

In Conclusion

With your routine oil changes, you can request your mechanic to check the alternator if you’re having issues that you feel may be from the alternator. If you can get ahead of the situation with a new alternator replacement before it goes totally out, you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches later going down the road, literally. 

How do axles wear out?

Your car’s suspension and wheel performance depend on the shocks and axles. The axles are a major component when it comes to the braking, driving, and steering of a car. They are the link between the engine and tires. The axles are responsible for carrying the entire weight of your car and all its components while the shocks absorb any, well shock to the axles. So, if the axle is bent or broken, axle repairs are a must for your car to move.

So, if the shocks are broken or old and worn out when the car hits a bump or pothole, and the shocks or struts can’t absorb any of that jolt, you could find yourself needing the axles repaired. The axle rotates constantly as the car moves, and they flex to accommodate the various road conditions. When they become too worn out, they can break if the conditions are hard when the car hits a bump. 

The three things that are usually the cause of a broken axle are: 

• Overloading: When you’re hauling too much weight in a car, a common issue for pickups, the axles can’t bear the weight and you’ll end up needing an axle repair service. Always note the recommended towing capacity of a vehicle and this will include how much you can load into a car or truck.
• Fatigued Metal: This is a prevalent issue for older cars, cars with high mileage, or a car that carries excessive heavy loads. As the car ages, the metal parts become brittle and rusty, which reduces their strength. Axles are made of durable, heavy metal, but that metal will age and lead to a broken axle if the heavy hauling continues, resulting in axel repair or replacement. 
• Road Conditions: The roadways of today aren’t doing well with the increase in traffic, and that is adding stress to the already worn roads, creating more bumps and potholes. When a car hits these bumps and potholes hard, it stresses the axles, and many car owners are seeking axle repairs or replacements.

How do I check my axle?

You want to inspect the boot around the CV joint. The boot is what keeps the CV joints lubricated and prevents dirt, dust, and water from getting to the CV joints. You’re looking for any holes, splits, or tears in the boot. You want to check if any grease is leaking from the boot. 

Next, you need to inspect the shaft for any dents, dings, or nicks. Note if there is anything rubbing against the shaft and check the clamps connect the boots to the shaft for any leaks. If any of these things are apparent, you should have a mechanic inspect the CV joints, shocks, or struts and the axle. Repairs or replacements may be necessary for any or all these components. 

How do you know when an axle is bad on your car?

We now have an understanding that when the axle is bad, it will put more stress on the shocks or struts, which puts more stress on the tires. All these together are what allow a car to move, and when they are worn out prematurely, the repair and replacement costs can get extensive. If it doesn’t get bad enough for an axle repair job, you’ll be replacing shocks or struts, and tires on a frequent basis. 

Most of us won’t have a car long enough to worry about axle repair or replacement. So, how do I know if my axle needs to be replaced? The following are signs your axle is broken and should be replaced:

• A clunking sound when putting the car into gear
• Strong vibrations while driving, braking, or turning 
• No power is transmitted to the wheels from the engine

Can you drive a car if the axle is broken?

If the axles are bad but turning, yes you can keep driving the car, but at a risk. At any point and time, the axle could completely break and fails, causing you to lose control of your car, resulting in a possible accident or crash. If you’re traveling at a high rate of speed with this happens, the accident or crash could be fatal.

How long can you drive on a bad axle?

Once a car axle is starting to fail, it can take days, weeks, or months before it breaks. It all depends on how much the car is driven, the road conditions it is subjected to, and your driving style.

How long does an axle last?

Again, the road conditions and your driving style will have a big impact on how long the axles last. As we stated earlier, most of us will never have to deal with axle repair or replacement. For vehicles that are subjected to harsh driving and road conditions, the end-of-life for axles will be sooner than a car that is driven a few miles over its lifetime.