Starting problems are annoying and a major inconvenience for many drivers. Most people are quick to put the blame on their vehicle's battery and immediately grab their jumper cables. But, some car starting problems can also be at the fault of other parts like your alternator. Before examining your vehicle's warning signs, you need to know how these parts operate.
A car's electrical components go through a three-step process to start and run your engine. The battery brings a jolt of electricity to the starter. Once your engine gets going, it puts the alternator to work. Finally, the alternator's movements are responsible for charging the battery. As you can see, these parts ultimately rely on each other to function.
To determine which electrical component is at fault, you can closely examine the warning symptoms.
Dead Battery Symptoms
- Dim Dashboard Lights
- Battery Corrosion
- Battery Age (2-5+ Years)
- Car Doesn't Start (At All)
Failing Alternator Symptoms
- Dim interior lights
- Dim or overly lit headlights
- Growling sounds
- A smell of burning rubber
- Car may start and immediately proceed to stall out
Both these problems can be challenging to pinpoint as some of the symptoms can overlap with each other. For instance, your battery won't hold a proper charge, and the electrical warning dashboard will turn on.
If you're questioning whether it's your battery, alternator, or both that is preventing your car from running, please bring your vehicle to Kwik Kar Auto Repair. Our ASE-certified technicians can test both parts and make the proper repairs and replacements (if necessary).
Are you tired of not being able to start your car? We invite you to call or visit Kwik Kar Auto Repair today!Your car's brake system is arguably the most important safety feature, which is why you should be taking care of them. Usually, brake pads will last about 50,000 miles, but it's best to replace them as soon as you catch signs of wear. The interval between replacements can also vary depending on the type of conditions you drive in and your driving habits. Here are four essential tips to help you preserve your brake system and its parts.
Tip #1 - Avoid speeding
We're all aware of the dangers of speeding, but it can also be harmful to your brakes. If you have to decelerate rapidly or come to a complete stop after heavily accelerating, it can prematurely wear down your brakes a lot faster. In other words, brake pads wear out quicker when there is more energy they have to put out. It's best to slow down slowly and steadily.
Tip #2 - Only use 1 foot to brake
This tip may be silly, but you should only have one foot on the brake or acceleration foot pedals (not one on each).
Tip #3 - Avoid carrying heavy loads
If you tend to pack and store a lot of random rummage in your vehicle, all of its weight can add up. If you plan to transport heavy items, try to keep them at a minimum and remove whatever's necessary when you're done. Bulky things will put a strain on your brakes, leading to premature wear.
Tip #4 - Bleed and flush your brakes
Auto experts recommend that car owners should have their brakes bled and flushed every few years. Brake flushes include a new set of brake fluid to make your braking process more efficient and seamless. It also helps to keep the parts lubricated and running longer.
Brake maintenance is necessary because harmful contaminants, including moisture, can seep into your brake fluid and produce corrosion. If you want to extend the life of your brakes, you should start following these tips as early as today! If you require any type of brake service, you can trust our certified techs to get the job done. Please call or come by one of our Kwik Kar Auto Repair locations today!
