Chevy Captiva:  Engine Sputtering (Causes + Diagnosis)

A sputtering engine can indicate a number of problems.  If your Chevy Captiva has a sputter, it is most likely going to be caused by bad fuel system, ignition system, MAF sensor, or bad catalytic converter.  Your Captiva’s engine is a giant pump.  It pulls in air (where it is measured by the mass airflow … Read more

Chevy Captiva:  Brake Pedal Going to Floor Diagnosis

The single most important safety feature in your Chevy Captiva is a good set of brakes.  If your brake pedal is going to the floor, it indicates that there is a serious problem in the braking system.  When the pedal goes to the floor, it’s usually caused by a bad master cylinder, leaking brakes, bad … Read more

Chevy Captiva Shifting Hard: Causes + Diagnosis

One of the most common automatic transmission problems is shifting hard.  If your Chevy Captiva has a hard shifting transmission, it can be uncomfortable to drive and a sign of serious problems. If your vehicle’s transmission is shifting hard, it can cause a harsh ride and lead to potential damage over time. Numerous factors can … Read more

Chevy Captiva: Battery Saver Active → Diagnosis

Many modern GM made vehicles have a battery saver feature, this includes the Chevy Captiva.  If you are getting a “battery saver active” message, it means that your Captiva’s electrical system voltage has dropped to a critical level (less than 11.7 volts).  Typical electrical systems run at 13+ volts with the engine running.  The battery … Read more

Chevy Captiva:  Warped Rotors → Symptoms & Causes

  Rotors are metal discs that are visible behind the Captiva’s wheel. They work together with the calipers and brake pads to slow down your Chevy Captiva. Due to braking friction, rotors have to withstand and dissipate a tremendous amount of heat. This causes the rotor surface to be uneven making the brake pedal feel … Read more

Chevy Captiva: Bad Motor Mount → Symptoms + Diagnosis

While your Chevy Captiva’s engine mounts can last the life of the entire vehicle, it is possible that they will go bad.  Vibration and a clunking sound are the two most noticeable symptoms when driving the vehicle.  There are plenty of visible signs as well. Engine mounts connect the engine to the frame of the … Read more

Chevy Captiva:  Bad ECM → Symptoms + Diagnosis

Your Chevy Captiva’s ECM (Engine Control Module) is its brain.  Just like a human’s brain, your Captiva can’t function without it. It is sometimes referred to as the ECU or PCM.  It’s all the same thing. The ECM controls and directs your entire drivetrain (unless there is a serrate transmission controller). When an ECM starts … Read more