Vehicle exhaust emissions have been a contributor to air pollution since the automobile first appeared on the dirt roads of the early 1900s. But it was not until the mid 60’s that efforts were initiated to reduce those emissions. By … Read more
Have you ever raised your vehicle’s hood, and noticed a chalky white, green, or blue substance deposited around the exterior of your battery? If so, what you observed was a case of battery corrosion. This corrosion is typically found on … Read more
Decades ago, my dad taught me a great deal about automobile problem diagnosis and repair. One thing he repeated time and time again: “For an engine to run it must have three things: fuel, spark and compression. And these three … Read more
Few situations are quite as aggravating as being forced to contend with a car window that won’t roll up. What would have otherwise been a normal day, is often spoiled, when being forced to worry over the slightest chance of … Read more
Nothing’s worse than getting into your car on cold morning and having a dead battery. It’s especially frustrating if you’ve jumpstarted it multiple times, and the mechanic keeps saying that there’s nothing wrong with it. You might be tempted just … Read more
As you turn the key to start up your vehicle’s engine, the battery of the vehicle produces an electrical current which goes into the ignition system and starter motor. If another current is needed which the alternator cannot provide, then … Read more
An alternator, sometimes known as a synchronous generator, is a vital component of the charging system of a vehicle. Along with the battery, it ensures that your vehicle starts and continues working as it should. Symptoms of a bad alternator … Read more
Before vehicle computers were invented, cars and trucks used a system of mechanical and pneumatic devices to manage systems such as valve timing and idle speed. Now, modern vehicles have a complex system of sensors and actuators connected to computers … Read more
Spark plugs are crucial components to an internal combustion engine. Without them, there would be nothing to ignite fuel within the combustion chamber. It’s no surprise that dirty or fouled spark plugs are a common cause for many engine issues. … Read more
Your ignition switch (or starter switch) locks your steering wheel in place when there’s no key in it. It is meant to prevent the car from being started without the key. It’s not much of a deterrent for the thief … Read more