Many late model GM-made vehicles, such as the Chevy Malibu use an “Engine Power Reduced” mode when they detect a potentially catastrophic problem. Reduced engine power has been known to come on at very inopportune times (such as while driving on the highway). Many components can cause the engine power to be reduced. The most … Read more
Many late model GM-made vehicles, such as the Chevy Impala use an “Engine Power Reduced” mode when they detect a potentially catastrophic problem. Reduced engine power has been known to come on at very inopportune times (such as while driving on the highway). Many components can cause the engine power to be reduced. The most … Read more
Modern vehicles use knock sensors to detect engine detonation. This allows the PCM (powertrain control module) to run very aggressive spark timing. Once the knock sensor has determined there is detonation, the timing is reduced, and the detonation will stop. If a knock sensor is bad, the PCM can’t make this important adjustment. … Read more
It doesn’t take very long to do an oil change. In fact, if you familiarize yourself with your vehicle, you can get it done yourself faster than you can drive it to the shop. How Long it Takes a Shop to Do an Oil Change We will list out the steps that a shop is … Read more
No matter where you live, if your vehicle’s A/C compressor is not turning on, it can turn a pleasant commute into a nightmare (particularly if you have kids). The A/C compressor pulley is always being turned by either the serpentine belt or a dedicated belt. It uses a clutch to grab the pulley and cycle … Read more
Every vehicle’s charging system consists of an alternator, wiring, the battery itself, and an ECU (on newer vehicles). If you have a check charging system light, that means that your ECU has determined one of these components is not performing properly. The charging system in vehicles hasn’t changed that much in the last 50 years. … Read more
There really is no perfect answer for how often should you tune up a vehicle. Whether or not it is time for a tune up is going to depend on a few important factors. Just remember that if your vehicle is running fine, there is no real need to tune up a modern vehicle. They … Read more
Black smoke coming from your car or truck’s exhaust is a concerning problem. Different colored exhaust can mean different things. Black smoke is typically of greater concern than most other colors, as it indicates that there could be a serious engine problem. Specifically, it usually indicates that the air/fuel mixture is too rich. Black … Read more
A bad alternator can leave your vehicle without power and unable to move. Alternators don’t always go bad in the exact same way. We’ll cover the symptoms of when an alternator goes bad, and how to diagnose a bad one (which is really pretty easy). How an Alternator Works An alternator’s job is … Read more
In a Honda made vehicle, P1259 means that there is a malfunction in the VTEC system. It is a manufacturer specific code, which means that it means the same thing for Honda and Acura made vehicles. The VTEC system is an integral part of most Honda’s. It stands for Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic … Read more