Auto Repair, Maintenance, Service Blog : Carotech Automotive

Seek The Assistance of Our Trained Technicians in Los Angeles to Identify a Bad VANOS in Your BMW

Posted on August 22, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - BMW Repair

VANOS system faults can easily be a nightmare for any BMW driver. VANOS faults often have a direct impact on the performance of the BMW and should be attended to as soon as possible. There are several reasons behind VANOS system failure, which is often followed by several symptoms pointing to the issue. Let’s have a look at some of these reasons and signs as well as what role the VANOS system does in your BMW.

The VANOS system is one of BMW’s unique technological advancements that is responsible for valve timing. The VANOS works by using oil pressure to adjust the valve timings by changing the camshaft’s position in relation to the drive gear. What this means is that the VANOS system controls the camshaft for intake and exhaust valves. This makes it possible for your BMW to have smooth idling and produce more horsepower.

The VANOS system also has solenoids that are responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of oil to the cam gears. This smooth flow of oil is what allows for the adjustment of the timing. In addition, the VANOS system also helps BMWs to maintain low carbon emissions as well as increasing fuel economy.

Sources of VANOS System Failure

The VANOS system in your BMW can develop faults for a number of reasons. The first of these reasons is the O-ring failure. The O-ring is a rubber component in the VANOS system that is more or less a weak link in an otherwise excellent system. Being made of rubber, the O-ring often wears out faster than expected due to the constant expansion and contraction that causes it to dry out over time, losing elasticity. This leads to cracks developing in the O-ring, leaving the VANOS system unable to fulfill its tasks.

The other cause of VANOS system failure is a clogged solenoid. The clogging happens due to the gathering of dust and dirt particles on the surface of the solenoids blocking them from working as they should.

What You’ll Notice about a Failing VANOS System

Because the VANOS system is an important electronic component in your BMW, when the system develops any problems, you’ll notice a few changes in your driving. Some of the most common symptoms of a bad VANOS system is rough idling. Remember, this is the part of your car that ensures your engine idles smoothly, so when it’s not working, you’ll hear rattling noises when idling. These noises are a result of loose gears vibrating.

Another symptom of VANOS system failure is that your BMW may lose power when driving at lower RPMs. The engine may also hesitate when driving at those lower speeds. This happens when the engine doesn’t receive enough fuel and is unable to expel the exhaust efficiently. This is also the reason why your car may also sputter as you drive.

Your BMW will also have a case of poor fuel economy whereby you’ll be spending a lot more fuel to cover distances that you’d otherwise cover on less money at the pump. This occurs when the engine burns more fuel to compensate for the discrepancy.

The check-engine light on your BMW’s dashboard is also likely to come on when you’re having a VANOS system fault. While this warning indicator illuminates anytime you have an issue in the engine, it can also point to VANOS failure. To rule out all the other possible causes of the dashboard warning, you’ll need a BMW specialist to run the proper diagnostics.

If you suspect that your BMW has suffered a VANOS system failure, seek out our BMW specialists. The diagnostic process of isolating this particular problem requires a level of brand specific experience that you can’t find at a corner garage.

At Carotech Automotive, our certified BMW specialists have factory-grade tools necessary to make the repairs using OEM parts. We provide high-quality repairs to BMW owners in Los Angeles, CA for years. Schedule a visit with us for regular VANOS servicing and repairs. Our expert team is happy to help. Let us show you why we’re the best BMW service center in the area.

* BMW Car image credit goes to: ByoungJoo.

Indicators of a Camshaft Tensioner Leak in an Audi by the Specialist of Los Angeles

Posted on August 6, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

When driving an Audi, or any car for that matter, it is in your best interest to keep all the essential parts operating smoothly. A part that is important to the performance of your Audi is the camshaft tensioner.

The camshaft tensioner is responsible for keeping an appropriate amount of tension on your car’s timing belt. The timing belt regulates the opening and closing of the engine valves through synchronizing the camshaft and crankshaft rotations.

In an Audi, the camshaft tensioner uses pressurized hydraulic oil for the timing belt’s functionality. A leak here can result in malfunctions and even complete engine failure.

A leaking camshaft tensioner can lead to more engine problems and can even compromise your safety. You wouldn’t want your Audi to suffer further problems, so it is a good idea to keep an eye out for tell-tale signs of problems. If you notice symptoms of a camshaft tensioner leak, you should bring it to our Audi-certified technicians so we can make repairs for you.

Watch For These Indications

A camshaft tensioner leak will appear as a typical oil leak, since the function of the camshaft tensioner is to regulate the timing belt. Failure of the camshaft tensioner will affect the timing belt as well.

Unusual Clicking or Grinding Noises: If you hear a loud grinding, ticking, or clicking noises, these are signs that the timing belt’s tension has been compromised. Since the timing belt is responsible for the movement of the engine’s pistons, this can also compromise your safety and can lead to an accident.
Check-Engine Light is On: The performance of the engine will rely on the timing belt and camshaft tensioner, among other things. Since both of these are central to its performance, failure in any of these will result in the engine line turning on.
Engine Doesn’t Start: An inappropriate amount of tension on the timing belt will lead to it being stretched, and as time passes, it increases the chance of it snapping. A snapped timing belt will increase the difficulty in repairing your vehicle with the added problem of not being able to bring your vehicle to the repair shop.
Accelerated Aging of the Timing Belt: To check the timing belt, you would need to open the hood of your car. However, the timing belt will naturally accumulate wear and tear over time with oil leaking from the camshaft tensioner. The timing belt will fray faster than it would without the oil leaking onto it.
Problems with Accelerating: If you notice your vehicle hesitating to accelerate, it could result from the timing belt being damaged and slipping due to improper tension.
Other Issues: Since the camshaft tensioner has a hand in governing other features, problems with your AC and battery can also be caused by a leaking camshaft tensioner.

How to Prevent a Camshaft Tensioner Leak

The best way to prevent a leak from happening is to get your vehicle regularly examined to catch the problem before it gets even worse. A simple inspection done by our expert mechanics can catch a worn-out timing belt and other loose parts. These can be solved early without it having the chance to pose a risk to your and your vehicle’s safety.

Get it Fixed by the Certified Technicians at Carotech Automotive

A vehicle with a leaking camshaft tensioner will negatively impact your engine’s performance and can even compromise your safety. With those in mind, it’s best that you get your car to a certified repair shop. Our masterful technicians here at Carotech Automotive will diagnose and address the issues plaguing your car and have you safely behind the wheel again.

The owners and technicians at Carotech Automotive have maintained a code of excellence for over 50 years. We have reliably served the people of Los Angeles, CA and have gained their trust through honestly diagnosing and repairing their vehicles.

For any issues affecting your Audi, bring it to Carotech Automotive. We will have our expert technicians tend to your vehicle. Don’t wait for your camshaft tensioner leak to cause more problems. Ensure your and your vehicle’s safety by contacting us and booking an appointment with our master technicians today.

* Audi R8 image credit goes to: DarthArt.

How to Diagnose a Failing O2 Sensor in a Porsche

Posted on July 21, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Porsche Repair

Cars become more reliant on technological advancements versus being entirely mechanical. These advancements in the automotive industry can be quite helpful for your drive and by alerting you to potential issues in your vehicle and aiding in high engine performance.

There are numerous sensors that can help diagnose and prevent failures in the mechanisms of your Porsche. One sensor that can prove vital to maintaining the overall health of your vehicle is the O2 sensor. This sensor is a vital component involved in the combustion process that keeps your engine running happily and reliably.

Combustion isn’t possible without oxygen, so your O2 sensor makes sure your engine has a healthy oxygen-to-fuel ratio. This important sensor also monitors the emissions the engine puts out and makes sure there are no harmful gases entering the environment.

If your vehicle begins to show signs of a failing O2 sensor, this is a severe issue that can negatively affect your engine’s performance and cause other problems if left to damage your components in your Porsche. You must take your vehicle to a trusted technician as soon as possible to get a diagnostic test and proper repair.

There are several symptoms that will indicate a failing O2 sensor in your Porsche. Below we’ve listed the most common signs of a failing O2 sensor:

Illuminated Check Engine Light

Modern vehicles are very good at giving you a heads up when there’s trouble under the hood. A failing O2 sensor will often trigger the check engine light to illuminate on the dashboard of your car. When this indicator lights up or any other dashboard indicator, you should have your vehicle serviced by a qualified technician. Never drive a vehicle for long after the check engine light illuminates without ensuring your engine’s health to ensure the longevity of your Porsche.

Increased Exhaust Emissions

One of the functions of the O2 sensor is to monitor your car’s emissions. When an O2 sensor starts to malfunction, it may affect the amount of exhaust produced by your vehicle. You may notice increased emissions from your Porsche’s exhaust when idling. There may even be a noticeable bad smell while driving. While this might seem like a purely cosmetic concern, an increase in exhaust emissions indicates a severe problem with your engine and it should be checked out by a Porsche expert.

Irregular Engine Sounds

When your engine fails to function as intended, your car’s overall health and performance may suffer. You may be able to notice this kind of issue by listening to the sounds produced by your vehicle’s engine. If you begin to hear abnormal sounds from your Porsche, this is a clear sign that you should bring your vehicle to a qualified automotive technician.

Poor Vehicle Performance

Intricately-designed vehicles like your Porsche run well because of all the parts working together in sync. So when one part fails to perform its function, the whole system begins to struggle. An O2 sensor that fails to function may also be unable to maintain the correct oxygen/fuel ratio. This ratio is necessary for the combustion process.

A disruption to the air-to-fuel ratio may cause your engine to perform suboptimally. It goes without saying that poor engine performance causes your vehicle to struggle in its overall performance.

If you notice your vehicle struggling to accelerate at its regular rate, it could be a sign of a failing O2 sensor. If your Porsche is in any way deviating from its usual performance, bring it into a trusted automotive shop for a diagnostic test. You know how your Porsche is supposed to perform. Trust your instincts and have it checked out if you suspect a problem.

Find Skilled, Honest Help At Carotech Automotive

Regardless of what problems your vehicle might have, our ASE-certified technicians can find solutions for you. Rest assured that at Carotech Automotive, your Porsche will be in skilled and qualified hands.

We have proudly serviced cars all over the Los Angeles, CA area for over 50 years. We are eager to help you with your Porsche’s problems, too. Bring your vehicle in for service today and allow us to prove what makes us the #1 trusted garage for Imports in the L.A. area.

The Best Auto Repair Shop in Los Angeles to Replace a Catalytic Converter in an Audi

Posted on July 5, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Audi Repair

The catalytic converter is a critical aspect of the exhaust system in your Audi. Shaped similar to the muffler, the catalytic converter features a ceramic honeycomb that is made up of elements that can clean exhaust gases that would alternatively be expelled from the exhaust system. It’s typical for Audi vehicles to have two to four of these devices.

Catalytic converters function to get rid of toxic gas from your Audi’s exhaust. They are divided into three sections called beds. Each bed performs a certain function to clean the exhaust coming from out of your car.

The first section is the reduction bed. It is covered in rhodium and reduces nitrous oxide gas to its separated form: the elements of oxygen and nitrogen.

The second bed, in the middle of the catalytic converter, is the oxygen storage bed. It is covered in cerium, which functions to maintain the best oxygen levels for use in the last chamber of the converter. It keeps and puts out oxygen that is separated from nitrogen in the first bed.

The last chamber is called the oxidizing bed. It is coated with palladium and platinum. Combustion of any leftover CO2 is completed in this bed. Oxygen is also used in this bed to burn off any remaining hydrocarbons in your Audi’s exhaust gas.

Causes Of Catalytic Converter Failure

There are a couple of typical causes of catalytic converter failure, mostly relating to other parts of the engine, as the part usually doesn’t malfunction by itself. If the engine overheats due to coolant leaks or other problems, the internal parts of the convertor can melt and thus clog the passage of gas. Aside from overheating or a problem with the engine, the only remaining cause of catalytic converter failure is significant damage caused by accidents or other impacts on your Audi.

Causes of Overheating in the Engine

Because overheating is essentially the only reason a catalytic converter can fail, let’s go over some causes of an overheated engine. Catalytic converters overheat and melt if there is an engine problem resulting in too much gas being put into the exhaust system. Typical problems with the engine that can result in this problem are:

fuel injector leaks
spark plug corrosion
air leak in the intake manifold
bad ignition timing or coil
failed oxygen sensor
oil or coolant leaks
fuel pressure regulator leaks

Symptoms of Catalytic Converter Failure

There are a few symptoms to look out for when suspecting that your catalytic converter has failed.

Check engine light: The most apparent symptom of a failed catalytic converter is an illuminated check engine light. Though this can indicate any engine problem, an issue with the catalytic converter is one of the possible options.
Failed emissions test: If your catalytic converter isn’t functioning properly, you will have dangerous exhaust coming from your Audi. This will cause you to fail an emissions test and require an inspection.
Rotten egg smell in the exhaust: If the exhaust system is not working the way that it should, there will sometimes be an odd smell coming from your exhaust pipe due to unregulated gases.
Rattling sound under the car: Sometimes there are broken parts of the honeycomb system that make noise. If you hear a strange rattling sound, it could mean that the honeycomb parts of the catalytic converter are broken.

Carotech Automotive: Your Premier Auto Service Center

Located off of West Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, Carotech Automotive is your area’s premier automotive repair shop. We service any model of Audi along with a variety of other types of vehicles.

At Carotech Automotive, we only use the latest factory-grade tools and equipment. Our team consists of highly-trained mechanics ready to help you get your Audi back up and running as fast and as cost-efficiently as possible.

If you notice any of the above issues with your Audi relating to your catalytic converter or anything else, bring it in to see us. We’ll be more than happy to help you get back on the road quick, with confidence in your Audi. Let us show you why we are the best garage for your Audi’s maintenance and repairs. Call us today.

The Pros And Cons Of Owning A Smart Car By The Experts Of Los Angeles

Posted on June 19, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Auto Info

Helping the environment is becoming a more popular idea among people and companies. We invest in solar-powered items, energy-efficient products, and other methods of being environmentally friendly. For many, buying a smart car is an option that fits with the goal helping the environment. This choice has both lovers and haters. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a smart car.

Advantages Of Owning A Smart Car

There are several pros to making this considerable investment. They’re the green choice, they’re easy to park, and they’re relatively quiet when operating. The following are the advantages of owning a smart car.

Environmentally Friendly

To begin, smart cars are here to reduce pollution. These green vehicles use less gas, and some are even solar-powered or use electricity as fuel, such as in hybrids. This further helps to decrease the amount of chemical pollution released into the air.

Interestingly, many store owners and commercial buildings reserve parking specifically for smart cars. This is to act as an incentive for this environmentally-friendly decision of investing in a smart car.

Compact Size

Parking is a headache in most cities. If you live or work in a large city, then you’re aware of the struggle to find some space for your automobile. Fortunately, smart cars are compact. They can be conveniently parked in smaller and tighter spaces. It may not seem like a big deal, but when you’ve spent ages driving around blocks looking for a place to fit your vehicle, it’s a huge lifesaver to be able to park easily.

As mentioned above, it’s also a massive advantage that some places will reserve parking strictly for smart cars. Additionally, because of the small size of the interior, you’ll never have to worry about anyone asking you to help them move!

Reduced Sound Pollution

Ever wake up in the middle of the night from your neighbor’s car engine making loud sputtering sounds? If they had a smart car, this would not be an issue. Smart cars are very quiet compared to your average vehicles. The way they are engineered helps to reduce sound pollution. Imagine how quiet a large city would be if everyone had a smart car.

Disadvantages Of Owning A Smart Car

Smart cars have numerous advantages, but they also have their share of disadvantages. These are some of the cons of choosing a smart car.

Limited Space: It may catch your attention to see the same aspect listed as a pro also to be called a con. Unfortunately, the truth is that the tiny size of a smart car can be a significant disadvantage at times. To start, you can’t really fit more than just one passenger. These autos are not for group travel. Also, if you’re going shopping, you have to consider the lack of space. It fills up faster than you’d think. Smart cars are not meant to be family cars.
Safety: Whereas the safety of smart cars is now years more advanced than before, it’s still not going to beat the crash tests of an average automobile. Smart cars have the necessary precautions, including airbags, advanced braking systems, and the essential safety cage. Despite their small size, they are designed with notable safety features. Nonetheless, a collision of any kind in a small vehicle could be a major problem.
Premium Fuel: Smart cars, whether they are hybrids or not, are all vehicles that still need gas. And sadly, this premium fuel can be quite costly. There is indeed better gas mileage, but it’s still important to consider that fueling up will still require money.

Carotech Automotive of Los Angeles Can Help

All in all, when making any large purchase, it’s necessary to look at both sides of the reviews. At Carotech Automotive And Tires in LA, we’re here to help you with any questions you have. And if you’ve already made the jump to making the world a cleaner place, then our premium-quality services and repairs can help keep your vehicle top-notch. Our mechanics are highly trained to give your smart car the care it needs. If you’re in the Los Angeles area, call or visit us at Carotech Automotive today.

* Smart Car image credit goes to: Carotech Automotive Smart Car Repair.

The Importance of Supercharger Oil For Your Mini

Posted on June 3, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - MINI Repair

In recent years, the Mini Cooper has solidified itself as a reliable choice for luxury drivers everywhere by introducing the supercharger to its system. A supercharger, unlike a turbocharger, is connected directly to the engine via a belt and can provide a huge boost in power and performance. However, this is only true if the supercharger is properly lubricated.

Today, we’re talking about the importance of keeping up with the oil levels in your Mini’s supercharger and some common symptoms to watch out for that tell you it’s time to get the oil changed.

The Supercharger and Oil

One common misconception that a lot of Mini drivers believe is that simply keeping your engine oil levels up is enough to keep the supercharger lubricated as well. This isn’t true, though. Regular engine oil shouldn’t come into contact with the supercharger at all.

A supercharger is an air compressor that includes a lot of moving gears and parts, and it’s constantly under a lot of pressure. Regular engine oil won’t last very long in this kind of environment, and once the supercharger runs dry, it can’t work as well and will negatively affect your car’s fuel economy and performance.

That’s why there is specially formulated supercharger oil that goes into the supercharger’s own oil reservoir. It was created to withstand the conditions of the supercharger and also does a little to help keep the temperature under your Mini’s hood at a reasonable level by reducing the amount of friction.

Signs that You Need to Get Your Supercharger Oil Changed

You may not realize it, but because the supercharger relies on the engine to work, letting supercharger problems fester can cause damage to the engine in the long run in addition to reducing performance and power overall.

Since Mini drivers rely on the reliability and power that the supercharger provides, you’ll likely be able to notice immediately when something is wrong. However, the best way to keep your supercharger and all of your Mini’s other components in great shape is by being proactive and following recommended maintenance routines. For supercharger oil changes, in particular, most mechanics recommend getting it changed every 50,000 miles, though you should ask your trusted mechanic for their specific recommendation.

Otherwise, if you see any of the signs I’m about to talk about, schedule an appointment with your local Mini expert as soon as you can.

The first sign that the supercharger oil is running low is a dramatic decrease in performance and fuel economy. If you notice that you’re going to the gas pump a lot more often than you normally do after driving the same amount, it could have something to do with the supercharger. Similarly, if you’re finding that your Mini doesn’t seem to be able to get up to speed as fast as it used to be able to, it may be because of the same reason.

Another symptom to watch for is strange noises coming from the engine. Specifically, grinding sounds indicate that the supercharger oil has run dry. Since oil is designed to lubricate the gears within the system and keep them from rubbing against each other, grinding noises mean that lubrication has gone away.

Too much friction between different components can cause significant wear that may mean you need to replace the supercharger entirely. You don’t want that to happen, as the supercharger is one of the most expensive parts of a car’s engine to replace.

How Carotech Automotive and Tires Can Help

You may be wondering if it’s possible to change the oil in your supercharger by yourself. The answer is that yes, of course, it’s possible. However, a supercharger oil change is not as easy or quick as a regular engine oil change. Even when a professional mechanic does it, it can be a complicated and time-consuming process, so unless you’re a Mini expert or very experienced with DIY car maintenance, you may just end up doing more damage than it’s worth.

Instead, bring your Mini to professionals like the technicians who work here at Carotech Automotive and Tire. Serving the Los Angeles area, we are experienced in servicing a wide range of domestic, Asian, and European car brands, including Minis. We’d love to help you out!

Is It Safe To Drive A BMW If It’s Having Electrical Issues?

Posted on May 18, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - BMW Repair

BMW is known for being a luxury vehicle with an exceptional life span. Your car’s electrical system plays an important role in its ability to operate, so you should have any electrical issues inspected and repaired immediately to ensure your vehicle lasts for as long as possible.

Your BMW is important for your day-to-day life, and when you use your vehicle regularly, you want to make sure it is keeping you and your passengers safe. If your vehicle is showing any signs of experiencing electrical issues, bring it to an experienced automotive repair shop. Driving with electrical issues puts you at risk of being stranded with a vehicle that cannot start and is in need of extremely expensive repairs.

Signs Your BMW Is Having Electrical Issues

The electrical system in your vehicle is complex and plays a vital role in many of your vehicle’s functions. If your BMW is having electrical issues, there are a large number of signs that could indicate there is an issue including:

Light Issues: Your vehicle has a lot of lights that are important to keep you and those driving around you safe, such as, turn signals, brake lights, and headlights. When these lights dim or do not work altogether, it could indicate that your vehicle’s electrical system is holding a low voltage.
Ineffective Heating and Air Conditioning System: If the heating of air conditioning in your vehicle seems to be losing strength, it could be a sign that your vehicle is not able to charge properly.
Ignition Issues: Your vehicle’s engine needs electricity to be able to start. If your vehicle’s ignition is making an unusual noise when starting or is having trouble turning, then you should bring your vehicle into a professional BMW repair shop Ignition issues can quickly turn into not being able to start your vehicle at all.
Burning Smell: Whether it smells like burning plastic, burning rubber, or burning oil, all can be signs of an electrical system issue. While they vary in what electrical issue might be causing the smell, any burning smell should be addressed by an automotive technician because it could lead to more expensive repairs if ignored.
Malfunctioning Electronic Component: Other electronics in your vehicle, such as the power windows and the stereo, are also powered by your vehicle’s electrical system. If they are not operating properly, it could be a sign of an electrical issue.

Common Causes of Electrical Issues in Your BMW

Similar to the wide variety of signs that indicate electrical issues in your vehicle, there are also several different reasons that your vehicle may be having electrical issues. Some of the potential causes of your BMW’s electrical issues include:

Dead, Damaged, or Faulty Battery: While it is possible for your vehicle’s battery to die due to a mistake, such as leaving the lights on overnight, a battery can lose its ability to hold a charge over time. If your vehicle is exposed to moisture or road debris often, the battery’s terminals and cord connectors could corrode overtime, inhibiting the battery’s ability to hold a charge. Depending on the severity of the corrosion, it could potentially be cleaned up to allow the battery to function better. If not, the battery might need to be replaced.
Malfunctioning Alternator: The alternator helps recharge the battery, so when it malfunctions it can prevent the battery from charging properly, and may need to be replaced.
Damaged Alternator Belt: A cracked alternator belt can disrupt the electrical system’s process.
Damaged Cables: The electrical system’s cables can become frayed or broken over time, and disrupt the connection between the power source and various electronic components.
Faulty or Blown Fuses: Fuses are designed to protect your vehicle’s electrical system, and when a fuse blows, it disrupts the flow of electricity in your vehicle. While sometimes they blow for no reason, any time a fuse is blown it may be a good idea to have an automotive technician inspect the issue in case there is an underlying issue with the electrical system.

Bring Your BMW to Carotech Automotive

At Carotech Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians are experienced in handling automotive repairs and maintenance, including electrical issues. We serve vehicle owners in Los Angeles, California and its surrounding areas. If your BMW appears to be experiencing electrical issues, make an appointment at our shop today and we will return your BMW to its top condition.

* BMW Car image credit goes to: aapsky.

How to Effectively Deal With Gear Selector Issues in Your Mercedes- Benz

Posted on May 1, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Mercedes Repair

Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for their reliability, but like any other car, they sometimes run into problems. One of the more common issues Mercedes-Benz owners deal with is the gear selector wearing down. Read on to learn about what the gear selector does, the symptoms to look out for that will tell you something’s wrong, and how to deal with the problem if it arises.

The Purpose of the Gear Selector

As you might expect from the name, a gear selector is what allows you to shift gears. In automatic cars, it detects things like your speed and what position the gearshift is in to tell the transmission what gear the car needs to be running in.

As you can see, the gear selector plays a crucial role, and if it’s not working properly, you could find yourself suddenly going backward when you want to move forward, or shifting to a lower gear when you want to speed up. You could also encounter several other problems, all of which are potentially dangerous to both the health of you and your passengers and your transmission’s health.

Luckily, however, chances are that you will notice the symptoms of a potential gear selector failure pretty quickly, so you can get it fixed as soon as possible and avoid damaging the transmission any further or, even worse, endangering the lives of the people who ride in your car.

Warning Signs of Gear Selector Problems

The tricky thing about gear selector issues is that the symptoms look very similar to other transmission problems, so you won’t be able to immediately tell that the gear selector is what’s acting up just by observing the symptoms.

However, any problem with a transmission is serious, so no matter what, if you notice one of the things I mention below, you should take your car in for repair. A professional mechanic will have the diagnostic tools necessary to determine exactly what the problem is and fix it much faster than you could.

With that being said, here are some common signs of gear selector failure:

Grinding or clicking noises, particularly if they happen while you are shifting gears. In any vehicle, but especially luxury ones like Mercedes-Benz, shifting between gears should be a seamless process.
Rough shifting. This can include sudden jerks while the car attempts to change gears, vibrations, or delays between shifting.
Difficulties moving between drive, reverse, and neutral. Your vehicle should change immediately between these when you tell it to. If instead, you notice that it’s hesitating, or you continue to move forward for a little bit even though you changed the gearshift into the reverse position, that’s a sign that the transmission is having trouble.
Gear slipping. This is a common symptom of transmission problems where the car will suddenly slip into a lower (or higher) gear even though you have not changed your speed. It can also happen when you’re accelerating, and the car unexpectedly shifts to a lower gear when it should be moving into higher ones as you speed up.

What to Do About Gear Selector Problems

Ideally, you want to avoid having any of these symptoms at all. The best way to do that is to keep up with the routine maintenance schedule suggested in your owner’s manual. Getting regular checkups and tune-ups allows mechanics to catch problems before they become problems and prevent them from turning into something much bigger (and more expensive).

If you are already experiencing one or more of the symptoms I mentioned, though, then you should schedule an appointment with your local Mercedes-Benz specialist as soon as you can before the issue gets even worse. Replacing a transmission can be a very expensive and stressful process, so it’s best to stop any potential hiccups before they get to that point.

If you live in the Los Angeles area and you’re looking for a great place to bring your Mercedes for maintenance or repair, look no further than Carotech Automotive and Tires. With expertise in a wide range of brands and highly trained technicians, you can trust that we’ll have the knowledge and tools necessary to get the job done efficiently.

Diagnose Engine Cooling System Issues in BMW From Certified Mechanics in Los Angeles

Posted on April 14, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - BMW Repair

Though BMWs are known for their reliability and style, there is one problem in particular that BMW drivers tend to run into, especially during the hotter months: cooling system issues. Today we’re going to walk you through what the cooling system is, what signs might tell you it’s malfunctioning, and how to get help when you need it.

The Function of the BMW Cooling System

In this situation, we’re not talking about your vehicle’s air conditioner, which is in charge of keeping the air inside the cabin cool. No, we’re talking about the thing that regulates the temperature of the engine and keeps it from getting too hot— or too cold!

To operate as efficiently as possible, the engine needs to stay within a certain temperature range. Getting too hot can damage the engine, lower the fuel efficiency, and, if left unfixed, can lead to costly repairs down the line.

The cooling system is what prevents that, by making sure the engine never gets too hot.

How to Tell the Engine Cooling System Isn’t Working

Luckily, detecting when the cooling system stops working isn’t that hard in most cases. There are some easily identifiable symptoms to watch out for, and if you tell these to your mechanic when you bring your car in for repair, they can help cut down on the amount of diagnostic and repair time that’s necessary.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of cooling system problems:

Coolant leaks. Coolant can be a lot of different colors, from green to pink to yellow, and it usually has a sweet smell. If you notice anything like that pooling under your car, that’s a pretty good indication that your engine’s cooling system is damaged or cracked somewhere. This could be from the hoses, the radiator itself, the water pump, or other places.
High engine temperature. Many cars allow you to see the engine temperature on the dashboard. If the reading that you see is consistently much higher than it should be, your coolant isn’t doing its job.
Steaming hood. Steam coming from under the hood of the vehicle is an indication that the engine is overheating, which means that something is wrong with the cooling system. If you notice this issue, bring your BMW in for repair as soon as you can.
White exhaust smoke. Similar to the steaming hood, white exhaust is a sign of an overheating engine. White smoke can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a cracked head gasket, so if you notice this symptom it is best to get it into a garage as soon as possible.
Cracked hoses or other parts. If you notice a leak, there is likely a reason for it. Looking at the hoses, water pump, or radiator can help tell you if there’s something wrong. Even if you haven’t noticed any coolant leaking, damaged hoses or other parts will only continue to wear down, which will eventually lead to a leak.

To prevent these issues from arising, the best thing to do is to keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule that BMW suggests. Regular upkeep will keep your car in the best shape it can possibly be and give you the chance to drive it for much longer.

Similarly, regular maintenance means that you and the mechanic will be able to catch potential problems earlier on, which will save you a lot of money in car repairs later on. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of inspections, routine maintenance, and repairs.

The coolant system is a vital part of the BMW’s internal components, since leaving it unfixed can mean disastrous things for the engine. If you notice any of the symptoms we talked about, or if your car just seems to be acting strangely for any other reason, you should bring it in to get checked out by a professional.

Where to Go For Help

Located in Los Angeles, California, Carotech Automotive and Tires is proud to provide top-notch service to all our customers. We have extensive knowledge of many different car brands, including domestic, Asian, and European brands like BMW. Because of this expertise, you can trust that we will have the right tools to do the job. If you’ve been having coolant problems with your BMW, or if you’d just like to learn more about what we offer, feel free to give us a call.

What is Routine Maintenance on a Car?

Posted on July 31, 2019 by Gary Kasbarian - Car Maintenance

tune-ups-oil-change-los-angeles-90035 One of the first provisions that a car owner should make is to read the car manual for the vehicle they own. This is critical. The vehicle manual will usually have a 30-60-90 schedule. This schedule is predicated on when certain items in the car need to be inspected, changed, or replaced at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles. While it is true that some parts of the vehicle, such as rubber gaskets, hoses, windshield wipers, and tires will wear out at irregular intervals, the 30-60-90 schedule is straightforward for the indicated items on your vehicle.

What is Included in Car Maintenance?

Not only is car maintenance the single most important way to lengthen the life of a car, but it can also save serious money on car repair. Car maintenance includes changing the oil, rotating the tires, checking the fluids, and more. Timing and serpentine belts are often overlooked by car owners, however, these belts need to be replaced periodically. Most mechanics agree that timing belts should be replaced every 60,000 miles or so. The owner’s manual will offer the manufacturers instructions for each component of the vehicle, taking the guesswork out of the equation.

How Do You Do Basic Maintenance on a Car?

The maintenance schedule section, located in the owner’s manual, has the basic intervals for critical engine components. Two of these components are the oil, and the oil filter. Oil is your engine’s lifeblood. When it comes time to change the oil, make sure you make an appropriate selection between synthetic and conventional oil, determined by your budget needs, and the needs of the vehicle. Next, make sure to check your tires monthly. Tires need to be properly inflated in order to perform well. Using a bicycle tire to inflate them is an excellent pro-tip.

How Do You Maintain a Car Engine?

In order for your car to perform at it’s best every time it hits the road, inspections are necessary. Through proper maintenance, future repair costs become limited and car performance is optimized. Regularly refreshing the oil in your vehicle, according to the parameters of the owner’s manual, will keep your engine in great shape. For car owners who tow a trailer or often drive in dusty conditions, your oil should be changed more frequently, and you should absolutely consider switching to the premium type of oil, synthetic. Other considerations include checking the PCV valve for proper operation and checking the spark plugs and the spark plug wires.

What Happens When a Car Hits 100k Miles?

After a car has passed one hundred thousand miles, it’s essential to routinely groom the car for any possible hiccups. Please read over the following list for essential maintenance tips:

Fluids. The oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and brake fluid all should be completely replaced after the one-hundred-thousand-mile mark.
Belts. The serpentine belt in your car is made of a special type of rubber that is streamlined to work within a hot engine compartment. However, no one component is built to last forever. Ask your mechanic to look into signs of cracks, missing ribbing, marring, striping or general brittleness.
Water pump and timing belt. Other than the oil, the timing belt is possibly the most important item that needs to be replaced at the 100,000-mile mark. This is because the damage caused by a broken timing belt on engines can be extravagantly expensive.
Tires and brakes. Check your tire’s inflation level and tread depth. Any signs of uneven wear, cracking, and bulging should be addressed promptly.

Where to Get Car Maintenance

If you have noticed a slow engine crank or a low battery fluid level, it may be time to get a car battery replacement. For a car battery replacement and car maintenance, vehicle owners should find a reliable car mechanic or repair shop. Ask trusted friends where they get their vehicle serviced, and whether they would highly recommend those services. Another avenue for car owners is finding a local shop with excellent reviews. Because your vehicle is important, it will be critical to find a mechanic who has in-depth knowledge and respect for automobiles and will be able to translate that into good repairs.

Car Maintenance to Do Yourself

There are a number of things that car owners can do to improve the maintenance of their vehicle without going to the mechanic. One of the items that top the list is replacing the air filter. Car owners need a new air filter approximately once every year or twelve months. Air filters cost about ten dollars and don’t take a lot of time to install. Windshield wipers are another car maintenance item that can be replaced with relative ease. Windshield wiper blades should be replaced once every six months, and only cost about ten to twenty dollars. One of the reasons why windshield wipers are so important to manage is because old wipers can leave messy streaks on the windshield, which can lead to low visibility.

Car Maintenance vs Repair

There’s an appropriate and realistic difference between car maintenance and repair. With enough preventative car maintenance, car owners can expect a long car life with very few incidents or need for repairs. With enough knowledge and care, cars have been known to last well beyond the 100k mark. Car repairs are necessary when accidents happen and can be very expensive. It is important to note that excellent car maintenance can help relieve and even eliminate car repair, but that it is not entirely foolproof, as there are accidents that happen on the road.

Car Maintenance by Mileage

A routine car maintenance schedule is optimally based on engine mileage. While not all cars will need the same thing at the same time (see the owner’s manual), a good rule of thumb would be to follow certain parameters. Better safe than sorry, as the adage goes. Every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, the oil and oil filter should be replaced. Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles the air filter should be changed. For every 20,000 miles, the battery and coolant should be inspected. Every 30,000 miles, replace the power-steering fluid. As always, consult the owner’s manual of your vehicle to make sure that you’re on track for car maintenance success.

Do you have car maintenance on your agenda? Our friendly staff at Carotech Automotive and Tires are ready to take your phone call at (424) 283-4303. In Los Angeles, CA car maintenance is critical. Consult our experts to receive the best car advice.

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