Common Auto Repair Questions and Answers

Common Auto Repair and Maintenance Questions - 316 Mechanics in Wichita Kansas

As a customer of a mechanic, you probably have some general concerns and questions. From the moment you walk in to the time your car leaves their shop, mechanics are there to help you out. But if you’ve never dealt with a mechanic before, it can be nerve-wracking leaving your car for a long period of time or trusting someone with complete access to it. Every day, customers come into our shop asking the same questions about mechanics. Here we answer them all for you in one convenient place so that next time your car needs service, you’ll know exactly what to expect from your mechanic.

How do you help customers who don't know a lot about cars?

We understand that not every customer knows a lot about cars, so we try to use our knowledge to make the experience as painless as possible. When you walk into our shop, we are happy to answer any questions you might have related to the car or the process. If you happen to be a mechanic who just started out and is looking for some advice, we would be happy to offer any help we can. We also have a number of helpful resources available online, including our FAQ page and a helpful guide to auto maintenance. Importantly, please know we do not mind questions and prefer them - we want you confident in knowing your getting the repairs needed for your vehicle and that they will be done correctly. 

Do you test drive the vehicle after you make the repairs?

Yes, we test drive the vehicle and make sure everything is running good and that there are no issues. We do this prior to calling you to pick the vehicle up so your time spent at the shop is minimal. 

What's the difference between a crankshaft and a camshaft?

The crankshaft is the main connecting point between the engine and the transmission. Its part of the engine that spins the flywheel to pull the transmission down the road. The camshaft is part of the fuel injection system and is what controls the valves. The camshaft is what controls the valves in the engine and is what drives the pistons to create the combustion pressure that powers the car.

Will you explain to me details of the necessary repairs?

Yes, we will detail everything that needs to be repaired on your vehicle and why they need to be fixed. 

Do you provide written estimates?

We provide a written estimate.. The estimate will include the parts used, labor, and any additional services that might be required. If we are working on a system that might be covered by warranty, we will also include that information. If for some reason the car is under warranty, we will take the estimate to the manufacturer to see if they want us to do the work.

Will I be able to choose what car parts are used for the repair?

Yes. We’ll let you know when we’re working on your car, but we can also let you know what parts we’re using to let you choose if you’d like those parts changed. We only use highly regarded brands and OEM parts when possible - some customers want only OEM parts which can be much more expensive. There are also options of using refurbished vehicle parts which are widely used in automotive industry. 

Are the parts and services under warranty?

It depends on the part and the manufacturer. New parts typically do have a warranty. 

Will you provide me with a detailed invoice once the repairs are completed?

Once the repairs are done, we will send you a detailed invoice detailing all parts, labor, and prices. 

Will this repair cause any other issues in my vehicle?

This is a case by case basis and the answer is usually no. We will not repair a vehicle that we think will not fix the issues with your vehicle. We are clear, concise and upfront and will give you our specific thoughts prior to any work being completed. 

What if my check engine light goes on?

If your vehicle’s Check Engine Light comes on, don’t panic! The light is not a sign of a problem. It’s an indication that your vehicle’s sensors are detecting something. This could be a problem with your vehicle’s OBD-II (OBD-II) or EBD (Electronic Control Body) system. You might have an unrepaired OBD-II sensor or an open Electronic Control Body. It could literally mean hundreds of things - BUT importantly, majority of the time it is simple fixes or nothing at all. It could be as simple as needing an oil change or a new air filter. The best course you can take is having it read. Check Engine Lights produce codes which tells the mechanic what they should look at or for. Majority of the time the issues presented with check engine lights are minor repairs if any - however if ignored can lead to major issues! It is important to get it evaluated quickly to ensure you are not facing a major issue a few months from now which could have been prevented easily. 

What if my Steering Wheel is Shaking?

Some vehicles have certain internal components that can cause a problem if they come into contact with other mechanical or electrical components. If you have a car that makes a raspy noise or shakes when you turn the wheel, it may be a sign that the steering gear is at fault. If your car makes a funny noise or a jerking motion when you turn the wheel, it may be a sign that the suspension is at fault. If your steering wheel makes clicking or popping sound when you turn the wheel, it may be a sign that the steering rack is at fault. There are numerous possibly but likely one of a few things. For the health of your vehicle long term and your safety, it would be wise to bring the vehicle in for an inspection!

My engine is sputtering - what does that mean?

Sputtering is a normal symptom of an engine misfiring. It happens when the spark plug does not get a spark from the spark plug wire or the spark plug is damaged. If your vehicle sputters or stumbles when you try to accelerate or when cruising at a slow speed, it might be time to have your engine inspected. Stuttering happens when the engine is over revving, which most cars do when they are accelerating. When the car is over revving, the pistons move faster than the combustion chambers in the engine can expand, resulting in a backfire or sputter sound. This is a normal symptom of an over revved engine. Reasons for Engine Misfiring Sputtering and stuttering happen when the spark plug does not get a spark from the spark plug wire. Spark plugs heat up quickly when you start the engine, which can damage the spark plug wire. If the spark plug wire is damaged, you can get spark-ignition misfiring. If the spark plug is damaged, you will not get a spark from the spark plug wire. If the spark plug wire is intact but the plug is damaged, you will not get a spark from the plug. If the plug is damaged, you will get a weak spark. This is the same as no spark. The plug is sending out a signal, but it is not getting a response.

What if my vehicle is making a clunking noise?

There are many different reasons that your vehicle may be making a clunking noise. It could be something as simple as a loose tire, or it could be something more serious like a failing suspension component. The only way to find out what the problem is is to have your vehicle inspected.

What if my engine overheats?

If your engine overheats, you need to pull the car over and shut off the engine immediately. If there is no traffic around you, turn on your hazard lights so that people can see that you have an issue and pull off to the side of the road. If there is traffic around you, turn on your flashers so that drivers behind you can see that you have an issue and pull over into a parking lot or other safe location where other vehicles are not passing by. Once the vehicle has been turned off, wait for about 5 minutes before turning it back on again. This gives the engine coolant time to drain back into the radiator where it belongs so that when you start up again, there isn't too much coolant in there which could cause another overheat situation. After waiting 5 minutes, start up your car again and see if it will stay running without overheating again. If it does not overheat after a couple of minutes of idling at normal operating temperature, drive slowly home or to an auto repair shop and get your car looked at by a professional!

What if my Brake Pads are worn?

It is important to maintain your vehicle’s brake system by properly checking and maintaining your brake pads. Failure to do so may result in poor brake system function and increased risk of brake system damage. Additionally, improper maintenance may result in brake corrosion and longer stoppages of the vehicle’s braking system. We are a phone call away for a free inspection!

What if my Brakes are Squeaking/Grinding?

Your vehicle's brakes are a critical component in safe and efficient driving. If your brakes are squeaking or grinding it is wise to bring it in for inspection. Over time, brake pads may become worn or broken, and this can happen if they are not replaced when they are due. When your brake pads are worn or damaged, it will cause your brakes to lose their ability to respond to the vehicle's need for deceleration. When this happens, your brakes will no longer respond properly and will make your vehicle unsafe to drive. Your brake pads should be inspected every 90 days for wear. If your brake pads are wearing quickly that also could mean that there are other components that may need to be repaired or inspected. For example, your brake pads may be wearing quickly because they have become brittle from being exposed to extreme heat or cold. In this case, the best course of action is to have the brakes thoroughly inspected to rule out the possibility of deterioration in the brake system.

What if my tires are wearing unevenly?

This can cause uneven pressure which can lead to flat tires. Uneven pressure can also be caused by poor installation or poor maintenance. If you are experiencing problems with uneven pressure, try checking your tire pressure frequently and riding with it at least one psi higher than normal. It is important for you to rotate your tires during regular maintenance because poor tire pressure can cause uneven wear, poor handling, and increased maintenance costs. If you drive on a regular basis, you should rotate your tires every 3 to 4 months. If you drive less often, you should rotate your tires every 6 to 12 months. 

What does it mean if my car is using too much oil and I have to refill it often?

Your car’s oil consumption is a sign that your engine is overworked. Over time, this causes the engine to wear out faster, leading to increased emissions and performance losses. If you regularly have to refill your car’s engine with new oil, this is a cause for concern. Luckily, it is easy to prevent overusing your car’s engine through careful maintenance. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently and efficiently-performing cars generate more power for the same amount of fuel. Therefore, if your car’s engine burns more fuel than it produces, it means that your engine is underperforming. This is a chief cause for concern because your engine will wear out faster and will require more frequent repairs. To prevent excessive engine wear and improve engine performance, you should follow a strict maintenance schedule. It is also important to bring the vehicle into 316 Mechanic at your earliest convenience so we can fully inspect it and make sure there are no other root causes that need to be addressed. A small investment in your vehicle now saves you thousands in the future!

What if my Alternator is failing?

Your alternator is an important electrical component in your car’s electrical system. It supplies electricity to your battery to help it power your car when you don’t have a fuel source. If your alternator starts to fail, it won’t be able to supply enough electricity to your vehicle’s electrical system, which could result in poor gas mileage, no power to your dashboard lights, and other problems. Your alternator plays an important role in maintaining your vehicle’s electrical system, so it’s important to replace it when it starts to fail. However, it's important to note that your car's alternator is not the same as an electrician's inverter. The alternator on your car is a similar size to an electrician's inverter, but it cycles electricity from your vehicle's battery to the electric system. 

What if my Radiator is Leaking? What should I do?

Your radiator is a vital component of your car's cooling system. Because it absorbs and disperses heat from the engine via conduction or radiation, a leaking radiator could cause your car to overheat. To identify if your radiator is leaking, you should check for steam coming out of the hoses. If your car has an automatic transmission, you may also want to check for a high pitch squeal coming from the transmission. It is also possible for your car to overheat because of a cracked or damaged radiator. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to bring your car to 316 Mechanic - we can evaluate your vehicle for free and let you know what the issue is if any. It is also important before driving your vehicle anywhere to check the radiator levels and also your engine coolant levels - it is also wise to carry a gallon of water in your vehicle for the drive too. 

What if my Car Gives Out Excessive Emissions?

If you suspect that your car is emitting too much pollution, you should first check the condition of your engine and make sure that it is not clogged with dirt or debris. You can also take the car to 316 Mechanics to have it checked out. There could be a variety of issues, both small and large causing the excessive emissions output Typically it will be an issue with the exhaust system which means that the exhaust system needs to be repaired or replaced. The catalytic converter can also be the reason for excessive emissions output. It will clear the exhaust system and thus reduce the chances of the catalytic converter clogging up. After a thorough inspection, the mechanic will recommend the best repairs for your car. In many cases, the repairs will not be too expensive. 

What if my Sensors Are Malfunctioning?

If you have any of these sensors that are malfunctioning in your vehicle and you don't know why, you can bring the car to 316 Mechanics for a inspection. If the problem is something that can be fixed, like sensor dislodgement, we can fix it and your car will go back to working as it did when you brought it in. Sensors can also mean there are larger mechanical issues with your vehicle which is why it is so important to have it inspected as soon as possible. 

What if my Transmission Fluid is Leaking from my car?

Transmission Fluid is a type of oil that is used to transfer power from one moving part of your car to another. If your car’s transmission is not working properly, then your car’s other moving parts will not be working properly either. If your car’s transmission is not shifting properly, then your car’s engine will not be able to get the power it needs to move. You may not be able to drive at all, or you may need to drive very slow and carefully. If you have this problem with your car’s transmission, then your mechanic will have to check to see if your car’s transmission fluid is actually leaking. A leaking transmission fluid can cause serious damage to your car. If you have this problem with your car’s transmission fluid, then you should call us sooner rather than later. Simple repairs turn into major and expensive issues if ignored or delayed. 

Why is my Automatic Transmission Slipping?

Your vehicle’s Automatic Transmission has some moving parts and can get warm. When these parts begin to slip or warp, you will start to experience transmission problems. These problems can range from a slight increase in shifting effort to a substantial drop in transmission performance. To ensure your Automatic Transmission is performing at its peak, it is important to get maintenance done by a qualified mechanic. Automatic Transmissions are expensive to replace so maintaining them properly prevents major issues down the road. Regular maintenance will reduce the chances of a transmission failing and needlessly spending thousands of dollars to have it replaced. Regular maintenance includes doing the following: - Inspecting your transmission for issues and fixing them before they become a problem - Engine maintenance, like keeping your car or truck on fuel fumes-free roads - Maintenance on your car’s engine will help your transmission by cleaning the engine of debris and preventing build-up that can cause problems - Regularly cleaning your transmission with a detailing fluid like Transmission Fluids will also help reduce possible long term issues. 

What if my windows stop working?

Windows can stop rolling up or down for a variety of reasons including malfunctioning internal parts, obstructions or the engine that powers the windows. If the problem is a faulty regulator, the windows should return to their normal position after the problem is fixed. The windows might return to their normal position slowly or they might return to their default position (roll up or down) after a short while. If the windows return slowly, try lowering the window before you continue using it. If it returns to its default position (roll up or down), try manually lowering the window. If this does not solve the problem, it may be time to schedule a service call. Window repair is common and something we handle often. It is sometimes a very simple and easy fix and sometimes more complex - there is no way to know until the vehicle is inspected.

What if my air conditioning stopped working?

There are many reasons the air conditioner will stop working. It is first important to note if it is still blowing out the air or is the system not blowing out any air. It could be as simple as replacing the Freon or could be a more serious issue. If the system is not blowing air, it is important to investigate why this is the case. A possible issue could be a clogged air intake, missing air filters, or a leaking cooling system. Once the cause of the blockage is identified, it is important to have the correct repair done. If the cause of the blockage can be determined, it is important to have the correct repair done. It is also important to check for a blockage in a different location (i.e., an intake tract) to confirm that the original blockage is the cause of the blockage. If the cause of the blockage cannot be determined, a diagnostic check for the blockage should be done. This can be done by removing the intake manifold and inspecting the intake tract for any debris or foreign objects that could be obstructing the intake. 

Why does my vehicle's fuel economy keep dropping lower and lower?

There are numerous reasons your gas mileage may be dropping including things as simple as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance needs and driving habits. To get your car or truck on the road in top shape and get the most out of your fuel economy, keep reading for a few tips that will help you maintain your vehicle and get the most out of your fuel economy. Regular maintenance will help keep your car or truck running smoothly and efficiently for as long as possible, and regular inspection and maintenance will help you get the most out of your fuel economy. Regularly inspecting your tires, brakes, and other safety items will help you get the most out of your fuel economy as well.

What if my car's engine keeps overheating?

If your car's engine keeps overheating, it may be that the problem is with the cooling system. To confirm that your cooling system is working correctly, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop and have it looked at by a mechanic. The mechanic should be able to check to see if your cooling system is at fault. If your cooling system is causing the overheating, your mechanic can replace the parts that are causing the problem and ensure that your engine runs as efficiently as possible.

What if my Thermostat fails?

The thermostat is a sensor that measures the outside air temperature and sets the engine’s engine temperature controller to match. It is an easy repair and fix and well worth having it looked at if you feel it may be off or not working properly. When the outside air temperature is too low, the thermostat increases the engine’s temperature to keep the car’s temperature closer to the outside temperature. When the outside air temperature is too high, the thermostat decreases the engine’s temperature to keep the car’s temperature as close to the outside temperature as possible. The engine’s temperature controller then decreases the engine’s temperature when the outside air temperature is too high to keep the car’s temperature as close to the outside temperature as possible. There are a few things that you can do to help avoid costly breakdowns. The first is to have a working, properly maintained vehicle. Your vehicle should be in good working order with a working, properly maintained Thermostat. If your vehicle is in poor condition, it is possible that your Thermostat could fail. Therefore, it is important to maintain your car’s health. The best way to do this is to keep your car running as efficiently as possible. Engine performance is directly related to the quality of your engine oil. Therefore, it is important to regularly change your engine oil. Additionally, your car’s cooling system should be in good working order. Your cooling system is designed to prevent your engine from overheating. Therefore, it is important to keep your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other parts of your car in good condition.

What if my engine overheats?

If your engine overheats and smoke pours out, don’t panic. Your car’s sensors will detect that the engine is overheated and give you a few warning signs. This will tell you to pull over and let the engine cool down. If you are driving in a high-risk area, like a freeway, then you may want to call a tow truck to come out and get you out of there. Overheating is a result of prolonged and excessive use of the engine. The engine overheats when the cooling system cannot meet the required pressure and temperature. The overheated radiator water causes the engine to overheat. If you notice your car overheating, it is best to take it to the mechanic right away. The majority of the time, the cause of overheating is due to a broken cooling system. When the cooling system stops working properly, the radiator water temperature will rise and the engine will overheat. Excessive heat can cause your engine to overheat. Constant overheating can be caused by a faulty cooling system, cracked radiator, or water pump. 

What if my power door locks stop working? 

If your power door lock system stops working, it's important to call a trained technician to repair the system. The lock cables or the lock actuators might be at fault, and the technician will need to replace or recalibrate these parts. In some cases, the power door lock actuators can become overheated and cause the system to stop working. The technician will probably want to perform a diagnostic check to make sure the problem is not something more serious. The most common issue is a clogged door lock actuator. If your power door locks don’t work, it may be a sign that there is a physical obstruction in your door lock mechanism. In some cases, your power door locks can become obstructed by foreign objects like paperclips or coins. If your power door locks are stopped working, you will need to get them fixed immediately.