Stang Auto Tech

Are Short Trips Quietly Wearing Out Your Car Faster Than You Think?

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:29:36 GMT

A car that is only used for quick errands can seem like it is living an easy life. It is not racking up huge mileage, it stays close to home, and it rarely gets pushed hard on the highway. From the outside, that sounds gentler than long commutes or road trips.

In reality, short-trip driving is much harder on a vehicle than people expect.

Why Short Trips Are Harder Than They Look

Most engine wear happens before the vehicle is fully warmed up. On a short trip, the oil, coolant, battery, transmission, and exhaust system may never reach the temperatures they need to work at their best. That leaves the car doing its hardest work during the least efficient part of the drive, over and over again.

This is where people get misled. A car that only goes a few miles at a time may look like it is being spared, but it is actually spending a lot of its life in warm-up mode. That repeated cycle creates more internal stress than many drivers realize.

Oil Dilution And Moisture Build Up Faster

When an engine is cold, fuel does not burn as cleanly as it does once everything is up to temperature. A little extra fuel and condensation can work their way into the oil during startup and early driving. On a longer drive, heat usually burns that off. On constant short trips, it has less chance to clear out.

That is one reason oil gets contaminated faster in a vehicle that only sees quick drives. Moisture stays in the crankcase longer, fuel dilution becomes more of an issue, and the oil has a tougher time protecting the engine the way it should. We see this quite a bit on lower-mileage vehicles that look fine on paper but have more internal buildup than expected.

The Battery, Exhaust, And Engine Do Not Catch Up

Short-trip driving is tough on the battery as well . Starting the engine takes a big shot of power, and the alternator needs enough drive time to replace it. If the vehicle is shut off again before that charge is fully restored, the battery gradually falls behind. That is why cars used only for short runs often end up with weak batteries sooner than drivers expect.

The exhaust system suffers in its own way. Moisture builds up inside it during startup, and if the system does not get hot enough for long enough, that moisture lingers. Over time, that can contribute to internal rust and shorten exhaust component life. The engine itself may begin collecting more carbon deposits because it keeps spending so much time in colder, richer-running conditions.

What Wears Faster On A City Car

A vehicle that sees repeated short drives tends to show a certain pattern of wear. The mileage may stay low, but the condition can still slip faster than the odometer suggests.

Common trouble spots include:

Faster battery wear from repeated starts and incomplete recharging
More moisture and fuel contamination in the engine oil
Greater carbon buildup in the engine and fuel system
More exhaust system moisture and internal corrosion

This is exactly why two cars with similar mileage, when compared, can be in very different shape. The one who does longer, steady drives ages better than the one who does only quick local trips.

Why Newer Cars Are Not Immune

Modern cars are smarter, but they are not immune to short-trip wear. Direct injection engines, turbocharged engines, emissions systems, and stop-start technology all depend on parts reaching proper temperature and operating in a stable range. When the vehicle is constantly shut off before it gets there, the wear pattern does not disappear just because the car is newer.

That is why a lower-mile vehicle can still need attention sooner than the owner expects. On the surface, it seems like the car has been used lightly. A closer inspection often tells a different story when short-trip use has been the norm for years.

How To Be Easier On A Car That Mostly Does Short Trips

You do not need to stop using your car for short drives. You just need to be realistic about what that driving pattern does and stay ahead of it. A longer drive every so often helps the vehicle fully warm up and burn off moisture. Keeping oil changes on time is important, even if the mileage is low.

Battery checks help too, especially if the vehicle sits between short trips. If the car spends most of its life doing errands, regular maintenance becomes even more important because the wear is happening in a quieter way. That kind of use deserves more attention, not less.

Get Preventive Maintenance In Broomfield, CO, With Stang Auto Tech

If your vehicle spends most of its time on short drives, Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, can help you stay ahead of the wear with the right service schedule and an inspection that catches early trouble before it turns into bigger repairs.

Bring it in before short-trip driving quietly ages the car faster than it should.

How To Tell If Your Motor Mounts or Transmission Mounts Are Worn Out

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:00:05 GMT

Motor mounts and transmission mounts do not get much attention until they start acting up. The tricky part is that mount wear can feel like a bunch of different problems, a harsh shift, a clunk, a rattle, or a new vibration that was not there last month.

If you know what to look for, you can catch mount issues before they start stressing other parts around the drivetrain.

What Motor And Transmission Mounts Actually Do

Mounts hold the engine and transmission in place while allowing controlled movement. The engine makes torque, which tries to twist the drivetrain every time you accelerate, shift, or climb a hill. The mounts limit that motion so the drivetrain does not slam around under load.

Most mounts use rubber to absorb vibration, and some are hydraulic, meaning they have fluid inside to soften harshness. As the rubber ages or the fluid leaks out, the mount loses its ability to cushion movement. That is when you start feeling more vibration and hearing more clunks than you used to.

Signs Your Mounts Are Wearing Out

One of the most common signs is a clunk when shifting into Drive or Reverse. You might also feel a thump when you accelerate from a stop, then another thump when you let off the gas. That is the drivetrain rocking farther than it should and hitting its limits.

Excess vibration at idle is another clue, especially if it is worse when the engine is cold or when the A/C is on. Some drivers describe it as a buzzing in the steering wheel or a shake in the seat . If the vibration improves when you raise RPM slightly, that can still be mounts, because the engine is no longer sitting at the same resonance point.

What Makes Mounts Fail Faster

Age and heat do most of the damage. Rubber hardens and cracks after years of heat cycling, and hydraulic mounts can leak, leaving them weak even if they look fine from above. Short trips can also be tough on mounts because the engine goes through more start-stop cycles and torque transitions.

Fluid leaks matter here too. Oil and power steering fluid can soak into rubber and cause it to soften and separate. If you have a small leak that has been ignored, it might be quietly shortening mount life and making the vehicle feel rougher than it should.

Why Worn Mounts Can Create Other Problems

When mounts are weak, the drivetrain can shift enough to stress nearby parts. Exhaust flex sections can crack, heat shields can start rattling, and hoses or wiring can get pulled or rubbed. The vehicle might develop noises that sound like suspension problems, even though the source is drivetrain movement .

Mount wear can also make shifts feel harsher than they really are. The transmission may be changing gears normally, but the drivetrain rocks during the shift and makes it feel like a bump. We have seen drivers worry about a transmission issue when the real fix was securing the drivetrain with healthy mounts.

How Mount Issues Are Confirmed

The goal is to confirm whether the mount is torn, collapsed, or allowing too much movement. A technician will look for cracked rubber, separated bonding, or leaking fluid on hydraulic mounts. Controlled load checks can also reveal excessive engine movement that you may not notice from the driver’s seat.

A careful inspection also checks for secondary clues, like shiny rub marks where parts have been touching or heat shields that are getting bumped. That matters because mounts can fail in a way that creates two symptoms at once, like a clunk plus an exhaust rattle. Confirming the real cause keeps you from replacing parts that were never the problem.

Simple Habits That Help Mounts Last

You cannot prevent all mount wear, but you can slow it down. Avoiding repeated hard launches helps because that is when mounts see the biggest torque hit. Fixing fluid leaks early also protects rubber parts that were never meant to live in oil.

It also helps to stay on top of regular maintenance so the engine is not vibrating more than it should due to ignition or idle issues. If you notice a new clunk on takeoff, a harsh bump during shifts, or a sudden increase in vibration, schedule service sooner rather than adapting to it. Early mount replacement is usually far cheaper than dealing with the damage caused by a drivetrain that is moving around too much.

Get Motor Mount Replacement In Broomfield, CO, With Stang Auto Tech

If you’re feeling new clunks on takeoff, vibration at idle, or harsh bumps during shifts, the next step is to book service so worn mounts can be replaced before they start stressing exhaust, hoses, and drivetrain components.

Schedule service with Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, to get the drivetrain secured again and keep your vehicle feeling solid every time you accelerate, brake, or shift.

Why Should You Book a Safety Inspection for Your Vehicle Every Year?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:00:16 GMT

A lot of drivers book service when something feels wrong, a noise pops up, a warning light appears on the dashboard, or a road trip is coming up fast. The tricky part is that many safety-related problems do not announce themselves in a dramatic way. They build slowly through potholes, heat cycles, wet roads, and day-to-day stop-and-go driving.

A yearly safety inspection is a simple way to check the parts that help you steer, stop, and see clearly when the unexpected happens.

Safety Issues Often Start As Subtle Changes

A vehicle can feel normal while key safety items quietly drift out of spec. Tires can lose grip long before they look worn out to the average eye, especially if they are wearing unevenly. Brake pads can get thin without squealing yet, and a soft pedal might only show up during a harder stop. Steering and suspension parts can also develop small amounts of play that you barely notice until you hit a bump mid-turn and the car feels a little vague.

That is the main value of an annual inspection, it catches gradual changes before they turn into an unpleasant surprise.

What A Yearly Safety Inspection Covers

A real safety inspection is not just a quick glance under the hood. It is a methodical check for wear, looseness, leaks, and visibility issues that can affect control and stopping distance. While every shop has its own checklist, these are common areas a thorough inspection will cover:

Brakes And Brake Hydraulics: Pad and rotor condition, caliper hardware, and signs of fluid leaks. A small seep can become a longer pedal over time.
Tires And Wheels: Tread depth, tire age cracking, sidewall damage, and uneven wear patterns that hint at alignment or suspension concerns.
Steering And Suspension: Tie rods, ball joints, control arm bushings , wheel bearings, and shocks or struts for looseness and wear.
Lights And Visibility Items: Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and washer spray, because bad visibility is a safety problem on its own.
Leaks And Undercarriage Issues: Oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and exhaust concerns, plus anything hanging, rubbing, or damaged underneath.

The goal is to spot wear patterns early, not to create a long list of scary surprises.

Symptom Timeline: From Minor Clues To Real Risk

Many safety issues follow a predictable timeline. First, you notice a tiny change that comes and goes, maybe a faint vibration at highway speed or a brake pedal that feels slightly different on cold mornings. Next, the symptom becomes repeatable, like a steering wheel shimmy every time you reach a certain speed, or a pull to one side on straight roads. After that, you may start adjusting your habits without realizing it, leaving extra following distance or braking earlier because the vehicle does not feel quite the same.

By the time you are compensating, the problem is already affecting your margin for error.

Owner Habits That Quietly Delay Repairs

One common habit is treating the absence of a warning light as proof that everything is fine. Many safety items wear out without ever turning on a dashboard light, especially mechanical parts like suspension joints, brake hardware, and wheel bearings. Another delay happens when drivers wait for a loud noise, because the early, cheaper stage often sounds like nothing at all. It is also easy to keep rotating tires and hoping a vibration disappears, when the real cause is alignment or a worn part that is letting the tire wear unevenly.

Putting eyes on the vehicle once a year helps prevent those slow-motion situations where a small issue becomes your new normal.

A Simple Timing Guide For Booking An Inspection

Yearly is a great baseline, but there are times when you should book sooner. If you just bought a used vehicle, an early safety inspection gives you a clean starting point so you know what you actually have. If you hit a pothole hard or bump a curb, do not wait too long, because alignment and suspension issues can chew through tires faster than most people expect. If the braking feel changes, the car starts pulling, or you notice a burning smell after driving, it is smart to schedule a check before it escalates.

You are not trying to panic, you are just making a calm decision based on what the car is telling you.

Getting More Value From The Appointment

Show up with a couple of notes, even if they seem minor. Jot down when you notice something, like only on the first stop of the day, only after rain, or only around 65 mph. Mention any recent tire replacements, battery work, or a warning light that came and went, because patterns matter. It also helps to be honest about driving conditions like short trips, heavy commuting, towing, or lots of hills, since that changes how quickly brakes, tires, and suspension parts wear.

A little context up front often leads to a clearer plan and fewer wasted repairs.

Get Vehicle Safety Inspection in Broomfield, CO with Stang Auto Tech

We can perform a yearly safety inspection, explain what we find in plain language, and help you prioritize what truly needs attention now versus what can wait a bit. We are also happy to point out wear patterns that may suggest an underlying cause, so you are not fixing the same issue twice.

Call Stang Auto Tech or schedule a visit so you can drive with more confidence all year.

The Importance of Cabin Air Filters for Your A/C System

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:46:12 GMT

You flip on the A/C expecting clean, cool air, but instead you get a weak breeze or a faint dusty smell. Many drivers blame the A/C system itself, yet one small part often sits at the center of the problem: the cabin air filter. It works quietly behind the scenes, and once it gets clogged, comfort and air quality can drop fast.

What the Cabin Air Filter Does

The cabin air filter sits in the path of the air that comes into your vehicle’s interior. It screens out dust, pollen, leaves, and other debris before that air reaches the ducts, the evaporator, and your vents. On many vehicles, it is tucked behind the glove box or under the cowl, where you never see it during normal use.

When the filter is clean, air flows smoothly across the A/C evaporator, and the fan does not have to work very hard to move that air. You get stronger airflow, the system cools more efficiently, and the air you breathe is noticeably fresher. Once the filter fills up with dirt, every part downstream has to work harder.

How a Dirty Filter Hurts A/C Performance

A clogged cabin filter acts like a hand over your mouth . The blower motor has to pull air through layers of dust and debris, which means it works harder just to move the same amount of air. That strain can make the fan noisy and shorten its life.

On the cooling side, low airflow across the evaporator can cause several issues. The air coming out of the vents may still feel cool, but there is not enough of it to bring the cabin temperature down quickly. In some cases, the evaporator can get so cold that it begins to ice up, which cuts airflow even more. We have seen vehicles where owners thought the A/C had a major mechanical problem, and simply changing a badly clogged cabin filter made a big difference.

Signs Your Cabin Air Filter Needs Attention

You do not have to see the filter to get a sense that it is overdue. Common warning signs include:

Weak airflow from the vents, even with the fan on higher settings
A persistent musty or stale smell when you first turn on the A/C or heater
Windows that take longer to defog, especially in damp weather
A fan that sounds like it is working hard but does not move much air

If you have never replaced the cabin filter, or it has been several years since anyone mentioned it, there is a good chance it is full of debris. Our technicians often pull filters that look more like shop vac bags than something you would want to breathe through.

Health and Comfort Benefits You Can Feel

A clean cabin air filter is not just about the A/C working better. It also affects your comfort and health. Catching pollen and fine dust helps reduce the stuff floating around in the cabin that can bother allergies and sinuses. That is especially noticeable if you spend a lot of time on dusty roads or in heavy traffic.

It also helps keep the interior feeling fresher. When the filter is doing its job, odors from the outside are reduced, and less grime builds up on the inside of the glass and vents. We have had plenty of customers comment that the car simply feels “newer” inside once the filter is replaced and the system has a chance to push truly clean air again.

Simple Habits to Make Your Filter Last Longer

You cannot keep a cabin air filter clean forever, but you can help it stay effective between replacements:

Avoid parking directly under trees that regularly drop leaves and seeds into the cowl area.
Knock loose dirt off floor mats outdoors so less dust circulates through the cabin.
Use the recirculate setting wisely, especially in dusty or smoky conditions, to limit how much outside air you pull in.
Keep an eye on the service schedule and treat the filter like any other wear item, not an afterthought.

We usually suggest checking the cabin air filter at regular service visits rather than waiting for a problem. It is a quick job, and seeing its condition can tell you a lot about how the car has been used.

Why Professional Inspection Is Needed

On some vehicles, changing the cabin filter is straightforward. On others, accessing it requires removing panels, clips, or glove box components that are easy to damage if you are in a hurry. A professional inspection also gives us a chance to look beyond the filter itself.

We can check for signs of moisture, mold growth on the evaporator, or debris that has made its way past the filter and into the ducts. If there is a persistent odor, a deeper cleaning of the A/C system may be needed along with a new filter . When we handle this service, the goal is not just to pop in a new part, but to make sure the whole airflow path is in good shape.

Get Cabin Air Filter and A/C Service in Broomfield, CO with Stang Auto Tech

If your vents feel weak, the air smells stale, the system fails to defog the windows in the winter, or you cannot remember the last time anyone checked your cabin air filter, this is a good time to take care of it. We can inspect and replace the filter, look over the A/C system, and make sure the air moving through your cabin is clean and strong.

Schedule cabin air filter and A/C service in Broomfield, CO with Stang Auto Tech , and we will help keep every drive cooler, fresher, and more comfortable.

Why Winter Roads in the Rockies Are More Dangerous Than You Think

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 14:42:47 GMT

Mountain driving in winter is a different game. Grades are steeper, weather changes faster, and traction can shift from dry to polished ice in a single mile. The risks add up quickly if brakes are tired, tires are mismatched, or visibility drops.

Use this guide to understand the hazards that catch drivers off guard and how to prepare your vehicle so those miles feel calm instead of tense.

Why Mountain Winter Driving Is Different

Elevation squeezes power from engines and reduces grip. Cold, dense air can hide patches of black ice, while shaded corners stay frozen long after sunny stretches have thawed. Wind funnels through canyons, pushing high-profile vehicles sideways. We often see issues start as something small, like a soft brake pedal or borderline tread depth, then snow and altitude magnify the problem.

Rapid Temperature Swings Create Invisible Ice

Rock surfaces store cold, especially on north-facing slopes. Meltwater from sunny sections refreezes in shaded bends and on bridge decks, where air flows above and below the surface. That leaves smooth, nearly invisible ice right where you need to steer and brake . Treat any glossy pavement in the shade as suspect. Gentle inputs, longer following distance, and early braking keep ABS from working overtime on those patches.

How Altitude Taxes Engines, Brakes, and Cooling

Air thins with height, so engines make less power and run higher throttle to keep pace. That extra load raises coolant and transmission temperatures on long climbs. On the way down, the same thin air removes less heat from the brakes. If pads are worn or fluid is old, fade shows up sooner. Our technicians see more boil-prone brake fluid and tired radiator caps cause trouble on mountain trips than on flat commutes.

Long Descents Overheat Brakes Faster Than You Think

Riding the pedal on a long downgrade cooks pads and rotors. When pads glaze, stopping distances stretch and the pedal feels wooden. Use a lower gear to hold speed and make short, firm presses to slow the car, then release to let the rotors shed heat. If you smell hot lining or feel vibration when you press the pedal, pull off at a turnout and give the brakes a few minutes to cool. A fluid exchange before winter helps resist fade when the downhill gets serious.

Snowpack, Ruts, and Lane Drop-Offs Reduce Control

Packed snow develops ruts that can grab a front tire and tug the vehicle sideways when you change lanes. Plows leave berms that hide lane edges and raised manhole covers. Keep steering inputs small and steady as you cross ruts. Wider, aggressive tires dig well in fresh snow but can feel vague on packed, polished surfaces; tread depth and a good winter compound matter more than looks. If stability control keeps flashing during gentle driving, traction is marginal and speed should come down.

Quick Vehicle Checks Before You Head for the Pass

Tires: Minimum 5/32 inch tread for winter trips; match brand and model on all four corners.
Pressure: Set while tires are cold and use the value listed on the door label; recheck when temperatures drop.
Brakes: Pedal should be firm, fluid clear and within date; no vibration on a mild 55 to 30 mph stop.
Cooling and heat: Strong cabin heat at idle, fans cycle correctly, coolant at the proper mix.
Battery and charging: Cold cranking amps test strong; terminals clean and tight.
Wipers and lights: Fresh blades, working defrost, clean lenses, and aligned headlights.

On-the-Road Moves That Prevent Emergencies

Leave extra space and use steady throttle; avoid quick lane changes in ruts or slush.

Shift down early for long descents; save the brakes for short, firm applications.

If the steering feels light or the stability light flickers, reduce speed before the next curve.

When traction vanishes, look where you want to go, ease off the pedal, and let the tires roll to regain bite.

If warning lights appear or the temperature gauge climbs, turn off A/C, raise cabin heat, and look for a safe turnout to investigate.

Maintenance That Pays Off All Winter

Fresh brake fluid resists boiling on long downgrades. Properly torqued, clean hub faces keep rotors true so the wheel does not shake the first time you slow from highway speeds. A strong battery prevents slow cranks that confuse modules in cold weather. An alignment after pothole season keeps the car tracking straight on crowned, snow-packed lanes. We build winter prep around these basics because they prevent the chain reactions that strand drivers at elevation.

Get Mountain-Ready Winter Service in Broomfield, CO with Stang Auto Tech

Planning a run over the pass? Visit Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO. We check brakes and fluid condition, measure tread depth, set cold tire pressures, verify cooling system health, and confirm lights, wipers, and charging are ready for fast-changing mountain weather.

Schedule a winter safety check today and drive the Rockies with confidence.

What to Do If Your Car Shakes When You Accelerate

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:39:14 GMT

A smooth pull onto the highway should feel steady and controlled. If the steering wheel buzzes, the seats vibrate, or the whole car shakes as you add throttle, something is not right. Acceleration loads every part of the drivetrain at once, so small issues show up quickly. Catching the cause early keeps the problem from taking out tires, mounts, or transmission parts.

How Tire and Wheel Problems Show Up Under Throttle

Tires and wheels are the first place to look. A separated tire belt can feel fine at low speed, then thump and shake as you accelerate. A wheel that is slightly bent may not show during gentle cruising, yet it will vibrate when speed builds. Missing wheel weights or mud packed inside the rim can throw the balance off.

If the shake changes with road speed and not engine speed, think tire or wheel. Inspect the tread for high spots, bulges, or cuts. Check that all wheel weights are present. A balance and runout check on a road force machine often reveals a hidden tire defect that a basic spin balance misses.

Why Worn Suspension Parts Make Vibrations Worse

Even a small imbalance feels bigger when suspension parts are loose. Control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and ball joints hold the wheels straight under load. When those joints wear, the wheels can wobble slightly as you accelerate, which shows up as a shake in the steering wheel. Struts and shocks that are past their best allow the tire to bounce instead of staying planted, which exaggerates any existing vibration.

If the steering wheel shimmy is strongest between specific speeds and improves elsewhere, combine a tire inspection with a front end check. Play in the joints will be obvious with the vehicle lifted and the wheels supported.

Engine and Transmission Mounts Matter More Than You Think

Mounts isolate vibration. When rubber hardens or cracks with age, the engine and transmission can move more than they should during throttle inputs . That extra movement sends a buzz through the cabin or a thump when shifting from park to drive. You may see the engine rock excessively when someone blips the throttle in the bay. Fluid filled mounts can also leak and lose their damping.

A mount problem often feels like a shake at lower speeds that improves once you are cruising. It can also show up as a clunk when lifting off the throttle. Replacing weak mounts brings the whole car back to a calmer feel and protects axles and exhaust hangers from strain.

Axles and U-Joints Under Acceleration

Front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles use constant velocity axles. A worn inner CV joint creates a vibration that appears under load and fades on decel. It is most noticeable when climbing a hill or merging onto the highway. Outer CV joints usually click while turning, but inner joints are the ones that cause the straight line shake.

Rear wheel drive vehicles use driveshafts with universal joints. A U-joint with dry needle bearings can create a shudder that tracks with vehicle speed. If the vibration shows up only after a recent driveshaft or differential service, the pinion angle may be off and should be measured. Any looseness here gets worse quickly, so do not wait if you hear new clunks or feel a strong shudder through the floor.

Misfires and Fuel Issues Can Mimic a Vibration

A slight misfire can feel like a shake during acceleration, especially under moderate to heavy throttle. Ignition coils that break down under load, worn spark plugs, or injectors with poor spray patterns can all create this feel. You may notice the tach needle flutter or the engine sound lose its smooth note. A check engine light is common, but not guaranteed.

Live data tells the story. Fuel trims that swing wide during a test drive, misfire counters that climb on one cylinder, or a MAF signal that jumps erratically will point to the cause. Fixing a load related misfire early prevents damage to the catalytic converter and returns the engine to smooth power.

Brake and Hub Issues You Might Not Expect

A sticking brake caliper or warped rotor usually shows up during braking. In some cases, light contact from a dragging pad creates a vibration that you feel more once engine torque loads the suspension. A failing wheel bearing can also hum at speed and feel like a vibration in the seat or floor. If the tone changes when you turn gently left or right, a hub bearing is a suspect.

A quick road test with gentle brake application while maintaining speed helps separate brake feel from drivetrain shake. If the vibration changes when you apply light brake pressure, the rotors or calipers deserve a closer look.

What You Can Check at Home Before a Shop Visit

Start with the easy items. Confirm tire pressures match the placard. Look for missing wheel weights and remove any packed mud or debris from the rims. Inspect the tread for bulges or cords. If you can safely raise the car, check for play at the wheels in the twelve and six o’clock positions for ball joints and the three and nine o’clock positions for tie rods. While parked, have a helper shift from reverse to drive with the brake applied and watch for excessive engine movement that hints at weak mounts.

If those checks do not reveal an obvious issue, a professional road test and inspection is the next step. Replicating the vibration at a specific speed and throttle position during the test helps the technician zero in on the right system quickly.

Smooth, Confident Acceleration with Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO

If your car shakes when you accelerate, Stang Auto Tech will find out why and fix it right. Our team checks tires and wheels with road force equipment, inspects suspension and mounts, tests axles and U-joints, and scans live engine data under load. We explain the findings clearly and give you a repair plan that restores smooth power and protects the parts around it.

Schedule a visit in Broomfield today and get back to steady, confident acceleration.

Does Your Car Pull to One Side? Here is Why

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 14:36:10 GMT

If you’ve ever had to fight with your steering wheel just to stay in your lane, you know how frustrating it can be when your car pulls to one side. That slight tug may not seem like a big deal at first, but it’s often a sign that something in your vehicle isn’t working as it should. Whether it happens only under braking, after hitting a bump, or all the time, consistent pulling usually means one or more systems are out of balance.

Ignoring this symptom could lead to tire damage, poor fuel economy, or even unsafe handling.

Uneven Tire Pressure Can Throw Off Steering

One of the most common and easily overlooked causes of a pulling sensation is tire pressure. If one front tire has significantly lower pressure than the other, it can cause the vehicle to lean or steer slightly in that direction. Even a few PSI differences between tires can create an imbalance that becomes noticeable when driving straight.

Check your tire pressure with a reliable gauge and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which are usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame.

Wheel Alignment Problems Are a Major Culprit

A car’s wheels need to point in very specific directions to maintain proper handling and even tire wear. If your vehicle’s alignment is off, it can pull to one side even when the road is flat. Hitting potholes, curbs, or road debris can knock your wheels out of alignment, making the car feel unstable or harder to control.

Misalignment also leads to uneven tire wear, which worsens the pulling effect over time. If you notice that one tire looks more worn than the others, especially on the inside or outside edge, it’s a sign that alignment should be checked .

Brake System Issues Can Cause Pulling While Stopping

If your car pulls to one side when braking, the issue may lie in the brake system. A stuck caliper or uneven brake pad wear can cause more braking force on one side than the other. When that happens, the vehicle may veer in one direction as the brakes are applied.

This type of pulling usually happens only under braking, so if your car tracks straight the rest of the time, the brakes may be to blame. Rusted calipers, old brake hoses, or uneven pad materials can all lead to this problem.

Suspension and Steering Wear Play a Role

Parts like control arms, bushings, tie rods, and ball joints help keep your wheels pointing in the right direction. Over time, these parts can wear out or become damaged, leading to sloppier handling and uneven response in the steering system.

If one side of your suspension has more wear than the other, it can cause the car to pull slightly or feel unpredictable. You might also hear clunks or feel vibrations when going over bumps, especially if suspension components are loose or misaligned.

Tire Wear or Mismatched Tires

Tires with different tread depths, sizes, or types can create a pulling sensation, even if alignment and suspension are fine. A tire with low tread on one side may respond differently to the road surface than a newer tire on the opposite side.

Rotating your tires regularly helps prevent this kind of imbalance. Always replace tires in sets when possible, and avoid mixing different brands or tread patterns unless recommended by your technician.

Drivetrain or Torque Steer Issues in Some Vehicles

In front-wheel-drive vehicles, torque steer can cause a pull under hard acceleration. This happens when more power is delivered to one wheel than the other, often due to differences in axle length or wear in the drivetrain.

While less common, torque steer becomes more noticeable in high-horsepower vehicles or when drivetrain components are aging unevenly.

What to Do When Your Car Pulls

Start with the basics. Check your tire pressure and condition. If everything looks good but the problem persists, it’s time for a professional inspection. A qualified technician can assess alignment angles, suspension condition, and braking performance to determine what’s causing the pulling.

Don’t delay this kind of inspection. A vehicle that doesn’t track straight is harder to control, especially during emergency braking or on slick roads.

Let Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, Keep Your Steering Straight

If your vehicle is pulling to one side or just doesn’t feel stable, visit Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO. Our team will check your alignment, suspension, brakes, and tires to pinpoint the issue and get your car handling like it should. Trust our experienced technicians to restore safety, comfort, and control on every drive. Schedule an inspection today and feel the difference.

Can I Drive My Car With a Blown Head Gasket?

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:33:45 GMT

The head gasket is an important seal inside your engine. It sits between the cylinder head and the engine block, keeping coolant, oil, and combustion gases in their proper places. Without this seal, your engine can’t maintain compression or keep fluids from mixing. A blown head gasket breaks that critical seal, leading to serious performance problems and potentially severe engine damage.

Signs Your Head Gasket May Be Blown

Many drivers aren’t sure how to recognize a blown head gasket. While it sometimes shows up suddenly, the problem often develops gradually with several warning signs:

White smoke coming from the exhaust, caused by coolant leaking into the combustion chamber.
Overheating, since coolant is escaping and the engine cannot regulate temperature properly.
Milky, frothy oil under the oil cap, which indicates coolant and oil are mixing.
Poor engine performance, such as rough idling, misfires, or loss of power.
Persistent coolant loss without visible external leaks.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected right away.

The Dangers of Driving With a Blown Head Gasket

Technically, a car with a blown head gasket might still run, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive. Continuing to drive puts the engine at serious risk. Coolant leaking into the cylinders can damage pistons, valves, and spark plugs. Oil contamination can strip away lubrication, leading to premature wear and overheating. The longer you drive with a blown gasket, the more extensive and expensive the damage becomes.

In severe cases, a blown head gasket can cause the engine to seize completely, requiring a full replacement. That’s why mechanics always recommend parking the vehicle and arranging for repairs rather than attempting to keep driving.

What Causes Head Gaskets to Fail?

Head gaskets can fail for several reasons, but overheating is the most common culprit. If your cooling system fails, whether due to a faulty water pump, a stuck thermostat, or low coolant levels, excessive heat can warp the cylinder head, weakening the gasket’s seal.

Other causes include:

Poor maintenance, like ignoring low coolant or overheating.
Incorrect installation or low-quality parts.
Age and wear, since gaskets naturally degrade over time.
Aggressive driving habits that put added strain on the engine.

By understanding these causes, drivers can reduce the likelihood of facing this costly repair.

Repairing a Blown Head Gasket

Repairing a head gasket is one of the more complex jobs in auto repair because it involves dismantling major engine components. The cylinder head must be removed, the surfaces inspected and machined if warped, and the gasket replaced with a new one. It’s labor-intensive and requires precise reassembly to ensure long-term reliability.

Some temporary sealant products claim to fix blown head gaskets, but these are usually only short-term solutions and rarely address the underlying problem. For lasting results, professional repair is the only option.

Preventing Future Head Gasket Problems

While no gasket lasts forever, preventive maintenance can extend its life. Regularly checking coolant levels, replacing coolant at recommended intervals, and monitoring the temperature gauge while driving are all good habits. Responding quickly to overheating is especially important—shutting the engine off before it gets too hot can prevent gasket failure and save thousands in repairs.

Routine inspections of your cooling system, including hoses, radiators, and thermostats, also help reduce risks. By keeping the engine temperature stable, you minimize the stress that leads to gasket failure.

Protect Your Engine With Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO

If you suspect a blown head gasket, it’s important not to ignore the warning signs. At Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, skilled technicians can perform thorough diagnostics to confirm the issue and recommend the best repair solution. They’ll also inspect related systems to ensure your vehicle is protected from future problems.

Don’t risk driving with a blown head gasket and schedule service today and let Stang Auto Tech restore your engine’s performance and dependability.

Strange Car Smells? What They Could Mean

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:03:00 GMT

Unusual smells inside or around your car are often the first signs that something isn’t working the way it should. While it’s easy to ignore a faint odor, some smells can indicate leaks, overheating components, or other hidden issues that may require serious repairs if left untreated.

Being aware of the different car smells that might indicate issues can help you address them early and avoid costly breakdowns.

Sweet Smell Like Syrup: Possible Coolant Leak

If you detect a sweet, syrupy smell near the front of your vehicle, it’s likely that coolant is leaking from the engine. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, which has a sugary odor that becomes more noticeable when it’s heated.

Leaks might come from a cracked hose, a worn radiator, or even the water pump. Even a small coolant leak can result in your engine overheating, which may lead to severe engine damage if left unaddressed.

If you notice this smell and see puddles under your car, it’s important to check your coolant levels and get your cooling system inspected promptly.

Burnt Oil or Exhaust Smell: Oil Leaks or Valve Issues

A hot, burning oil smell often indicates that oil is leaking onto engine parts, such as the exhaust manifold. This can be due to worn valve cover gaskets, a cracked oil pan, or a failed seal.

You might smell it more strongly after parking, especially if the engine is warm. Over time, this can lead to a drop in oil levels and reduced lubrication, which increases wear on engine components.

Ignoring this smell can result in low oil pressure and permanent engine damage, so it’s worth having a technician identify the source.

Rotten Egg Odor: Exhaust or Catalytic Converter Trouble

A smell like rotten eggs or sulfur usually comes from the exhaust system, particularly when the catalytic converter isn’t functioning properly. This component is designed to neutralize harmful emissions before they exit the tailpipe.

If your engine is running rich—meaning it’s burning more fuel than it should—unburned fuel can overwhelm the converter and produce a sulfur smell. This problem may also trigger the check engine light and could result in reduced fuel efficiency or failed emissions testing.

Musty or Moldy Interior: HVAC or Cabin Filter Issues

A musty odor, especially when the air conditioning or heater is running , typically points to moisture buildup in your HVAC system. Mold or mildew can grow in the air ducts or on a dirty cabin air filter, especially in humid climates or if the A/C hasn’t been used for a while.

This smell is more than just unpleasant-it can affect air quality and worsen allergies. Changing the cabin filter and having the HVAC system cleaned can often resolve the issue.

Burning Plastic or Electrical Smell: Wiring Problems

A sharp, pungent smell, like burning plastic or overheated electronics, should never be ignored. This could indicate a short circuit, overheating wiring, or even a malfunctioning fuse or switch.

In some cases, plastic components under the dash or hood may be melting due to excessive heat or poor contact. This type of smell may also be accompanied by electrical issues , such as flickering lights or a malfunctioning radio.

Because electrical problems can lead to fires, it’s crucial to get your vehicle checked immediately if you notice this kind of odor.

Fuel Smell Around the Vehicle: Fuel Leak or Evap System Issue

If you smell gasoline around your vehicle, especially after refueling or parking, it may be due to a leaking fuel line, a damaged gas cap, or an issue with the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system.

Gasoline is highly flammable, and fuel vapors should not be escaping. A fuel smell is both a fire hazard and an environmental concern. This type of problem should be inspected as soon as possible to ensure safe operation.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Strange Smells

Smells are often an early warning sign of mechanical trouble. Even if your vehicle seems to be running fine, odors can point to leaks, overheating parts, or other developing issues.

The longer you wait to investigate, the greater the chance of expensive damage. Something as small as a coolant or oil leak can escalate into engine failure if left unaddressed.

Addressing these smells early on not only protects your vehicle but also your safety and comfort on the road.

Get Professional Diagnostics at Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO

At Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, we recognize the importance of identifying minor issues before they escalate into major problems. Whether you’re noticing a strange smell, a performance issue, or just want peace of mind, our technicians are here to help.

We’ll conduct a thorough inspection of your engine, exhaust system, HVAC components, and other relevant components to identify the source of the odor and recommend the appropriate solution. Don’t ignore what your nose is telling you—schedule an appointment today and keep your vehicle running clean and safe.

What’s the Best Tire Pressure for Off-Road Driving?

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:38:00 GMT

When you're heading off the pavement and into the dirt, rocks, or sand, one of the most important adjustments you can make to your vehicle is tire pressure. While highway tire pressure is optimized for fuel economy and tread life, off-road tire pressure serves a very different purpose. Knowing how and when to adjust it can improve traction, ride comfort, and overall control of your vehicle on rugged terrain.

Why Tire Pressure Matters Off-Road

The surface you drive on affects how your tires interact with the ground. On pavement, firm tire pressure enhances efficiency and improves steering response. But when the surface becomes loose, soft, or uneven, firm tires can actually hurt your vehicle's ability to grip.

Lowering tire pressure increases the contact patch—the area of the tire that touches the ground. With more tire surface pressing against the terrain, your vehicle gains more traction. Softer tires can also conform to the terrain, which helps absorb impacts and smooth out the ride.

How Low Should You Go

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all number because ideal off-road pressure depends on the type of terrain, the weight of your vehicle, and the tires you're running. But here’s a general guideline for most off-road conditions:

Gravel trails and dirt roads
Lowering pressure by 5 to 10 PSI from the manufacturer’s highway recommendation is often enough to improve grip and comfort.

Rocky terrain
You might lower your tire pressure to the low 20s or even upper teens (PSI), which allows the tires to better flex over obstacles without damaging the tire or the wheel.

Sand driving
You’ll want to go even lower—sometimes as low as 12 to 15 PSI. This helps your tires float on the surface instead of digging in and getting stuck.

Mud
Moderate deflation helps with traction but going too low increases the chance of losing the bead or damaging the tire.

Always make sure to re-inflate your tires when transitioning back to pavement. Driving at low PSI on highways is unsafe and can lead to excessive tire wear or even blowouts.

Consider the Equipment You’re Using

Different tires respond differently to deflation. Off-road-specific tires, such as all-terrain or mud-terrain tires, are built with stronger sidewalls that can handle lower pressures without compromising safety. On the other hand, regular street tires have thinner sidewalls and may not perform as well when aired down.

Also, the size and weight of your vehicle play a role. A heavy truck with a rooftop tent or gear will need slightly more pressure than a lighter SUV to prevent tire damage, even in off-road conditions.

Be sure your wheels are in good shape, too. Damaged rims or improperly seated beads can cause issues if you lower pressure too far.

Should You Air Down for Every Trail

Not necessarily. If you're only driving on well-maintained dirt roads or light gravel, airing down may not be needed. But if your plans involve deep sand, rocks, or technical trails, adjusting tire pressure can make the difference between a successful outing and getting stuck.

Some drivers air down as soon as they hit the trailhead, while others wait until they encounter more challenging terrain. The key is to understand your environment and be prepared to make adjustments when needed.

Bring the Right Tools

When heading off-road, always carry a tire pressure gauge and portable air compressor. Many tire deflators are made for off-road use and allow quick and precise adjustments. After your adventure, re-inflate your tires to their normal pressure before driving on pavement. Portable compressors powered by your vehicle’s battery or 12V outlet are ideal for this task.

Being prepared with the right gear helps protect your tires and ensures a smoother return to everyday driving.

Let the Experts at Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, Help You Get Trail-Ready

Before your next off-road trip, stop by Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO. Our technicians can inspect your tires, provide tire pressure recommendations based on your vehicle and route, and make sure your equipment is ready for the trail. We can also help install tire deflators and onboard air systems or recommend upgrades to your off-road setup.

Trust Stang Auto Tech to get your vehicle off-road ready and keep your adventures smooth, safe, and under control.

10 Snacks That Keep Kids Happy on the Road Trip

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Long road trips can test even the most patient parents. Kids get restless, hungry, and bored quickly, and when hunger strikes, it often leads to complaints, messes, and unplanned stops. Packing the right snacks can make the difference between a peaceful drive and a chaotic one.

To help keep everyone in good spirits, we’ve put together a list of kid-approved snacks that are travel-friendly, low in mess, and satisfying for those long stretches on the road. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, these snack ideas will help keep your young passengers happy.

1. Cheese Sticks and Cubes

Cheese is packed with protein and easy to portion. String cheese or pre-cut cubes hold up well in a cooler and make for a great no-mess snack. Pair them with crackers or pretzels for a more filling option.

2. Fruit That Doesn’t Squish Easily

Skip the soft fruits that bruise quickly. Instead, go for apples, grapes, bananas, or clementines. These hold their shape, require little preparation, and are easy for kids to handle. Pre-washing and cutting fruit before the trip saves time and keeps your cooler organized.

3. Trail Mix or DIY Snack Mix

Trail mix is a favorite road trip snack, and you can customize it to your kids’ tastes. Mix nuts, pretzels, dried fruit, and a few chocolate chips for a sweet and salty combo. If your kids have nut allergies or you're looking for a safer option for younger ones, leave out the nuts and stick to cereal, mini marshmallows, and dried fruit.

4. Squeeze Yogurt or Applesauce Pouches

Portable pouches are a lifesaver for road trips. Yogurt or applesauce in resealable pouches can be eaten without utensils and help minimize spills. Store them in the cooler to keep them fresh until snack time.

5. Veggie Sticks and Hummus Cups

Carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips make healthy, crunchy snacks. Pair them with individual hummus containers or ranch dip cups for added flavor. Use spill-proof containers to keep dips from leaking.

6. Crackers and Rice Cakes

Choose sturdy crackers that won’t crumble in the bag. Whole grain crackers or rice cakes give kids a satisfying crunch without too much mess. You can also pack mini sandwich crackers for a fun twist.

7. Hard-Boiled Eggs

For a more protein-packed option, hard-boiled eggs are easy to prepare and store in a cooler. Peel them ahead of time to make them even more road-ready. Just be sure to keep them in a sealed container to prevent any odors from escaping.

8. Popcorn in Resealable Bags

Popcorn is a surprisingly neat snack when portioned correctly. Air-popped popcorn can be seasoned lightly and packed in individual zip-top bags. It’s a better option than chips for avoiding greasy fingers on seatbelts and screens.

9. Mini Muffins or Snack Bars

Mini muffins and granola bars are great for breakfast or mid-morning snacks. Choose bars that hold their shape and don’t melt easily. Avoid overly crumbly ones unless you’re ready for a vacuum cleanup at the next rest stop.

10. Water and Low-Sugar Drinks

Don’t forget hydration. Skip the sugary sodas and juices and opt for water or diluted juice boxes. Keeping a small cooler within reach allows kids to grab drinks without help, saving time and hassle.

Snack Packing Tips for the Road

Use stackable containers or snack organizers to keep everything tidy.
Pack a small trash bag or resealable bags for wrappers and peels.
Hand wipes and paper towels are your best friends for cleaning up quick messes.
Bring a variety to avoid snack fatigue, and rotate options at each stop.

Snacks aren’t just about feeding hunger but also about maintaining energy and reducing stress along the way. The right mix of flavors and textures can keep everyone calm and satisfied between meals.

Stang Auto Tech – Keeping Your Whole Trip on Track in Broomfield, CO

At Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, we help local families get ready for the road. Whether you need a vehicle checkup before a big trip or just a quick inspection for peace of mind, we’re here to make sure your journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

Book your visit today and drive with confidence.

8 Signs Your Car Needs a Diagnostic Check

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:47:00 GMT

Today’s vehicles rely on advanced computer systems to keep track of everything from performance to safety and emissions. When something isn’t quite right, the system logs diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that help point to the issue. But how can you tell when it’s time to hook your car up for a scan?

Here are eight signs your vehicle might be trying to tell you it needs some attention—before a small problem turns into a bigger repair bill.

1. The Check Engine Light Is On

This is the most obvious—and most misunderstood—sign. Your check engine light can be triggered by a wide range of issues, from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. If the light stays on or flashes, it means your vehicle has detected a fault and stored a code.

Even if your car seems to be running normally, it’s a good idea to have it scanned. Ignoring the light could lead to reduced fuel efficiency, engine damage, or emissions problems.

2. Strange Noises from the Engine or Exhaust

Unusual sounds like knocking, pinging, popping, or rattling can mean something’s off with the timing, fuel mixture, or exhaust system. These sounds might not trigger a warning light right away, but they often point to issues a diagnostic check can detect—like misfires, failing sensors, or exhaust leaks.

The sooner these noises are investigated, the better your chances of avoiding more serious engine damage.

3. A Drop in Fuel Efficiency

If you notice you’re filling up more often without any changes to your driving habits, something may be interfering with your engine’s performance. Dirty sensors, faulty spark plugs, or emissions system problems can all throw off your fuel-to-air ratio and reduce efficiency.

A diagnostic scan can reveal underlying issues that are quietly affecting your MPG.

4. Trouble Starting or Stalling

Hard starts, delayed cranking, or stalling while idling are all signs your car is struggling to operate properly. These symptoms can be linked to problems in the ignition system, fuel delivery, or engine sensors. Even if the check engine light isn’t on, a scan can still help identify trouble codes stored by the system.

Don’t wait until your car leaves you stranded—intermittent starting issues often get worse over time.

5. Rough Idling or Engine Hesitation

When your engine doesn’t feel smooth while idling or stumbles when you accelerate, it usually means the engine isn’t running efficiently. You might feel the RPMs bounce, hear the engine sputter, or notice a delay when you press the gas.

These symptoms can be caused by misfires, vacuum leaks, or sensor malfunctions—and they often leave behind useful codes that a diagnostic tool can read.

6. Unresponsive or Sluggish Acceleration

If your vehicle isn’t responding the way it used to—or feels slow to accelerate even with steady throttle input—it could be a sign that something is limiting power. This might be due to a restricted fuel injector, clogged air filter, or issues with the throttle body.

Running a diagnostic check can help narrow it down and point to the exact cause, saving time and guesswork.

7. Unusual Smells or Smoke

Burning smells, raw fuel odors, or visible smoke from the tailpipe can signal problems with the exhaust, emissions, or cooling systems. While smells alone won’t generate a code, they often go hand-in-hand with mechanical faults that do. A diagnostic scan can help determine if an oxygen sensor, fuel injector, or catalytic converter is to blame.

These types of problems can also lead to failed emissions tests if not resolved.

8. Transmission Issues or Warning Lights

Today’s transmissions are also computer-controlled, which means shifting delays, slipping gears, or odd noises can often be diagnosed electronically. A scan can help determine whether you’re dealing with low transmission fluid, a solenoid issue, or a failing sensor.

If your vehicle has a specific transmission warning light or displays a wrench icon, don’t ignore it—it could mean your transmission is at risk for more serious trouble.

Stang Auto Tech – Precision Diagnostics in Broomfield, CO

At Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, we use professional-grade diagnostic equipment to accurately pinpoint what’s going on with your car. Whether it’s a warning light, a performance issue, or just a feeling that something’s not right, our team can help you make informed repair decisions. Don’t wait for a small issue to grow—schedule your diagnostic check with us today.

Can My Car Catch Fire From an Electrical Short?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

If you've ever caught a whiff of something burning inside your car or noticed a flicker in the dash lights, it might’ve crossed your mind—can my car actually catch fire from something electrical? The answer is yes, it can. Electrical shorts are one of the leading causes of vehicle fires, especially in older cars or those with wiring damage, DIY modifications, or neglected electrical systems.

While not every short circuit will lead to flames, all electrical issues should be taken seriously. A little warning sign can turn into a bigger, more dangerous problem if ignored.

What Exactly Is an Electrical Short

An electrical short happens when electricity takes an unintended path through the wiring—often due to damaged insulation, corroded wires, or faulty connections. This causes excess current to flow, which creates heat. If that heat builds up near plastic, upholstery, or other flammable materials, you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fire.

Many shorts start small, with flickering lights or blown fuses. But if the system isn’t protected by functioning fuses or relays, the heat can grow quickly—and silently.

Where Shorts Typically Occur in Vehicles

Cars today are packed with complex electronics. With that complexity comes more potential failure points. Some of the most common areas where shorts occur include:

Battery terminals or starter wiring, especially when exposed or corroded

Aftermarket accessories, such as stereo systems, alarm kits, or light bars, when installed without proper fuses

Trailer wiring, which is often spliced and exposed to the elements
Under-seat wiring for heated seats, power adjustments, or sensors
Worn insulation behind dashboards or in door panels where wires rub over time
Even rodents chewing on wires can create short circuits that are hard to find—until something smells like it’s burning.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Most electrical problems don’t go straight to fire- but they do give off signs before things get serious . If you notice any of these, get your car checked out as soon as possible:

Burning plastic or electrical smells
Fuses that blow repeatedly
Melted insulation or scorch marks near wires or connectors
Smoke (even a little) coming from under the dash or hood
Lights flickering or behaving erratically
Electronics that randomly shut off or stop working

A properly functioning electrical system is quiet and consistent. If yours is doing anything unusual, it’s worth inspecting.

How to Lower the Risk of an Electrical Fire

The key to preventing electrical fires is maintenance and protection. All circuits in your vehicle are protected by fuses or circuit breakers. If you’ve modified your electrical system without proper fusing, you’re increasing your risk.

Here’s how to stay safe:

Avoid overloading circuits with aftermarket accessories
Use professionally installed wiring harnesses with correct fuse ratings
Replace cracked or brittle wiring when found
Don’t ignore the smell of burnt plastic—it never goes away on its own
Keep your battery terminals clean and tightly connected

If your vehicle is older, it may be time for a wiring inspection to check for deteriorated insulation or outdated splices.

Act Early

Electrical problems tend to start small—just a flicker here or a smell there. But they don’t go away, and they never fix themselves. Letting a minor short continue can lead to melted wires, dashboard damage, or even full-blown fires that destroy the vehicle .

The cost to track down a short is far less than the cost of repairing electrical fire damage—or worse, losing the entire car.

Protect your car and your peace of mind. Visit Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO for expert electrical inspections and safe, reliable repairs.

Why Do Potholes Get Worse After Winter?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

If you've ever noticed that roads seem rougher once winter ends, you’re not imagining things. Potholes become more common and severe after cold weather, making spring a frustrating time for drivers. These road hazards can cause significant damage to your tires, suspension, and alignment, leading to costly repairs. But why do potholes get worse after winter? The answer lies in how temperature fluctuations, moisture, and traffic all interact with the road surface.

How Potholes Form

Potholes don’t appear overnight. They start as small cracks in the pavement caused by natural wear and tear, heavy traffic, and weather exposure. Once cracks form, water seeps into them, settling beneath the surface of the road.

During winter, temperatures often fluctuate between freezing and thawing. When water freezes, it expands, pushing the pavement upward and creating gaps underneath. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving behind empty spaces where the pavement is now weak. The weight of passing vehicles forces the weakened asphalt to break apart, eventually creating potholes.

Why Do Potholes Get Worse After Winter

Several factors contribute to potholes becoming larger and more frequent in early spring:

Repeated Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Winter weather brings constant temperature changes, with freezing nights and warmer days. Each time water freezes and expands, then thaws and contracts, it weakens the pavement further. By the time winter ends, roads have gone through multiple cycles of expansion and contraction, leading to widespread cracking and pavement deterioration.

Heavy Traffic on Weakened Roads
Once the ice melts and creates air pockets under the road, the pavement becomes more fragile. Heavy vehicles, like trucks and buses, put pressure on these weakened areas, causing the surface to break apart more easily. This is why potholes tend to appear in high-traffic areas like intersections and highways after winter.

Moisture and Road Salt Effects
Salt is often used to melt ice and improve traction on winter roads, but it also accelerates asphalt breakdown. While salt lowers the freezing point of water, preventing ice from forming, it also allows moisture to penetrate deeper into the cracks. This traps water underneath the road surface, making freeze-thaw cycles even more destructive.

Delayed Road Repairs in Winter
During winter, it’s difficult for road crews to perform long-term pothole repairs because cold temperatures prevent asphalt from setting properly. Many cities use temporary patching methods during winter, but these are often short-lived. Once spring arrives and temperatures stabilize, road crews can begin permanent repairs, but by then, potholes have already worsened.

The Impact of Potholes on Your Vehicle

Hitting a pothole at high speed can lead to serious damage, including:

Tire and Wheel Damage – Potholes can cause blown tires, bent rims, and wheel misalignment.
Suspension and Steering Issues – Repeated pothole impacts wear down shocks, struts, and control arms, leading to rough handling.
Underbody Damage – Deep potholes can scrape or puncture the exhaust system, oil pan, or other undercarriage components.

If you notice changes in your car’s handling, vibrations in the steering wheel, or uneven tire wear, it’s best to have a professional inspect it for damage.

How to Avoid Pothole Damage

While potholes can’t always be avoided, you can minimize the risk by:

Driving cautiously – Slowing down on rough roads can help reduce the impact of hitting a pothole.
Keeping a safe distance – Allowing space between you and other cars helps you spot potholes earlier.
Maintaining proper tire pressure – Underinflated tires are more vulnerable to pothole damage.
Avoiding puddles – Potholes often hide beneath standing water, making them difficult to see.

If your vehicle isn’t driving as smoothly as before, pothole damage could be to blame. The experienced team at Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, can inspect your tires, suspension, and alignment to ensure your car stays safe on the road. Call or visit us today for expert service!

Why Do Automatic Transmissions Use Torque Converters?

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Automatic transmissions have made driving more convenient by eliminating the need for manual gear shifting, but what allows them to function so efficiently? The key component responsible for this seamless operation is the torque converter. Unlike manual transmissions, which rely on a clutch to engage and disengage power from the engine to the transmission, automatic transmissions use a torque converter to manage this process automatically. But why do automatic transmissions need torque converters, and how do they work?

What Does a Torque Converter Do

A torque converter is essentially a fluid coupling that connects the engine to the transmission. Its main job is to transfer power from the engine to the transmission while allowing the car to remain stationary when idling. Without a torque converter, an automatic vehicle would stall every time it came to a stop.

Unlike a manual transmission, where the driver disengages power using a clutch, the torque converter automatically adjusts power flow using hydraulic fluid. This process enables a smoother and more controlled transition of power, preventing abrupt starts and stops.

How a Torque Converter Works

A torque converter consists of several key components:

Pump – Attached to the engine’s crankshaft, the pump spins as the engine runs, creating fluid pressure.
Turbine – Connected to the transmission, the turbine receives the fluid from the pump, transferring rotational energy.
Stator – This component redirects the transmission fluid to improve efficiency and maximize torque delivery.
Transmission Fluid – Hydraulic fluid inside the torque converter facilitates energy transfer between the engine and transmission.

When you press the gas pedal, the engine spins the torque converter’s pump, moving transmission fluid through the system. The fluid turns the turbine, which sends power to the transmission and ultimately to the wheels. The stator enhances this process by redirecting fluid flow to maximize efficiency.

Why Do Automatic Transmissions Need Torque Converters

Torque converters provide several advantages that make them essential for automatic transmissions.

Smooth Power Transfer – Since there’s no clutch pedal, the torque converter allows a seamless flow of power, preventing sudden jolts during acceleration and deceleration.
Prevents Stalling – Without a torque converter, an automatic vehicle would shut off every time it came to a stop. The converter keeps the engine running while the car is idle.
Multiplies Torque – At low speeds, the torque converter temporarily increases torque, giving the vehicle more power when accelerating from a stop.
Absorbs Shock – The hydraulic nature of a torque converter helps absorb vibrations and prevent excessive strain on the transmission.

Signs of a Failing Torque Converter

Although torque converters are built to last, they can wear out over time due to heat, friction, and contaminated transmission fluid. If your torque converter starts to fail, you may notice:

Slipping Gears – If the transmission struggles to stay in gear or shifts unpredictably, the torque converter may not be providing proper fluid pressure.
Shuddering or Jerking – A failing torque converter can cause noticeable vibrations, especially when accelerating.
Overheating Transmission – Poor fluid circulation can lead to excessive heat buildup, which can damage internal components.
Delayed Engagement – If there’s a lag when shifting from Park to Drive, it may indicate an issue with the torque converter.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe transmission damage, resulting in costly repairs or even a complete transmission failure.

How to Maintain Your Torque Converter and Transmission

To keep your torque converter and transmission in optimal condition, follow these maintenance tips:

Check Transmission Fluid Regularly – Contaminated or low transmission fluid can lead to torque converter issues. Make sure to use the correct type of fluid recommended for your vehicle.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Service Schedule – Regular transmission fluid changes help prevent buildup and keep the torque converter functioning properly.
Avoid Excessive Heat – Prolonged stop-and-go driving and towing heavy loads can put extra strain on the torque converter. Letting the transmission overheat can accelerate wear and tear.
Listen for Unusual Noises – Grinding or whining sounds may indicate a failing torque converter and should be checked immediately.

If you suspect torque converter problems, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional. Addressing issues early can prevent extensive transmission damage and costly repairs.

Experiencing transmission slipping or unusual vibrations? These could be signs of a failing torque converter. Visit Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, for a complete transmission inspection and ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition!

What Makes SUVs Ideal for Colorado's Roads

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 10:52:00 GMT

When you think about driving through Colorado, what comes to mind? Towering mountains, winding roads, and unpredictable weather, right? This beautiful state demands a vehicle that can handle it all, and SUVs fit the bill perfectly. Whether you're commuting through Broomfield, CO, or heading up to the Rockies for an outdoor adventure, there's no denying that SUVs are built for the task.

1. All-Wheel Drive for Unpredictable Weather

Colorado is known for its stunning scenery, but it’s also famous for its ever-changing weather. One moment, it’s sunny; the next, you’re navigating icy roads or unexpected snowfall. That’s where SUVs shine. Most models come equipped with all-wheel or four-wheel drive, offering enhanced traction and stability. These features help you confidently handle everything from rain-soaked streets to snow-covered mountain passes. Plus, their higher ground clearance makes them less likely to get stuck when conditions get rough .

2. Space for All Your Gear

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a parent juggling sports gear and grocery bags, SUVs have room for it all. With spacious interiors and flexible seating configurations, they’re perfect for hauling everything from ski equipment to camping supplies. Many models even feature fold-flat rear seats, allowing you to customize the space based on your needs. For those living in or visiting Broomfield, CO, where hiking and skiing destinations are just a short drive away, an SUV ensures you’re always prepared for the next adventure.

3. Elevated Driving Experience

Let’s talk about visibility. SUVs’ elevated seating positions give drivers a better view of the road, which is a huge plus when navigating mountainous terrain or winding highways. This higher vantage point makes it easier to spot potential hazards, whether it’s wildlife crossing the road or a sudden curve ahead. And let’s be honest—there’s a certain confidence that comes with sitting up high behind the wheel.

4. Rugged Durability for Rough Terrain

Colorado’s roads aren’t always smooth, especially when you venture off the beaten path. SUVs are built to handle it all, from gravel trails to uneven dirt roads. Their robust construction, paired with advanced suspension systems, ensures a comfortable ride even on the bumpiest surfaces. And with features like skid plates and off-road driving modes available on many models , you can take on rugged trails without a second thought.

5. Safety Features That Inspire Confidence

Driving in Colorado often means dealing with steep inclines, sharp turns, and unpredictable conditions. That’s why safety is non-negotiable. Modern SUVs come packed with advanced safety technologies like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Many also offer downhill assist control, which can be a lifesaver when descending steep mountain roads. These features not only make your drive safer but also reduce stress, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

6. Towing Capacity for Your Adventures

Got a boat, camper, or trailer? SUVs have the muscle to tow your toys with ease. Their powerful engines and high towing capacities make them an excellent choice for weekend getaways or cross-country trips. Whether you’re heading to a nearby lake or setting up camp in the Rockies, an SUV ensures you won’t have to leave any gear behind.

Ready to keep your SUV road-ready for every Colorado adventure? Visit Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO. From inspections to full-service repairs, we’ll help you stay safe and prepared for wherever the road takes you.

What Should I Do If My Car Gets Stuck in Snow?

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 12:34:00 GMT

Winter brings its fair share of challenges, and for many drivers, few things are more frustrating than getting stuck in the snow. Whether it happens in your driveway or on a remote road, it’s a situation that calls for quick thinking and careful action. But don’t worry—there are practical steps you can take to free your car and get back on your way safely.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

When your car is stuck in the snow, the first step is to stay calm. Panic can lead to hasty decisions that might make the situation worse. Take a moment to assess your surroundings and determine how deeply your car is stuck. Is it just the tires spinning, or is the undercarriage lodged in the snow? Knowing the extent of the issue will help you decide on the best approach.

Clear Snow Around the Tires

Once you’ve assessed the situation, start by clearing snow away from your tires. If you have a snow shovel in your trunk, use it to remove as much snow as possible from around the wheels. No shovel? No problem—you can use your hands, an ice scraper, or even a sturdy piece of cardboard. The goal is to give your tires a clear path to grip and move forward.

Pay special attention to the snow directly in front of and behind the tires. This will create a small track for your car to move in, making it easier to gain traction.

Use Traction Boosters

If your tires are still spinning without moving, it’s time to give them a little help. Sand, kitty litter, or even salt can provide the extra traction your tires need to grip the ground. Scatter these materials in front of and behind your drive wheels. If you don’t have any of these items, consider using floor mats or pieces of carpet from your car. Just be sure to place them snugly under the tires for maximum effectiveness.

Try Gentle Acceleration

Many drivers make the mistake of slamming on the gas when their car gets stuck, but that only makes things worse. Instead, apply light and steady pressure to the accelerator. If your car has a manual transmission, start in second gear to reduce wheel spin. For automatic cars, shift to low gear if possible.

If forward motion doesn’t work, try switching to reverse. Rocking the car back and forth by alternating between drive and reverse can sometimes help it break free.

Let a Friend Give You a Push

If you’re not alone, enlist the help of a friend or passerby to give your car a push. Make sure the helper stands clear of the wheels to avoid any injuries from spinning snow or debris. Communicate clearly, and coordinate your efforts to avoid confusion.

For safety, ensure that your car is in the correct gear (drive or reverse) before attempting this. And remember to drive slowly and steadily as you regain traction.

Use Tire Chains or Snow Socks

Tire chains or snow socks are invaluable during winter. If you have them on hand, install them on your drive wheels. These tools significantly increase traction on icy and snowy surfaces, making it easier to free your car. They’re especially useful if you often travel in areas prone to heavy snow.

Call for Assistance If Needed

Sometimes, the best solution is to call for help. If you’re in a remote area or the snow is too deep to handle on your own, contacting roadside assistance is a smart move. Be prepared to provide your location and a description of the situation so they can send the appropriate help.

Winter can be tough on your vehicle. Visit Stang Auto Tech for expert vehicle inspections and maintenance to prepare for the cold months ahead. Schedule your appointment today!

Can Driving with Worn Axles Damage My Car?

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Your car’s axles might not get as much attention as other components, but they are keeping your vehicle moving. The axles transfer power from your transmission to the wheels, allowing your car to drive. Axles wear out over time. You might be wondering, “Can driving with worn axles damage my car?” The short answer is yes, and it could lead to serious consequences. Understanding the risks and signs of worn axles can help prevent more extensive damage to your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road.

Why Worn Axles Are a Big Deal

Axles bear the weight of your car and endure a lot of stress as you drive, especially when turning or going over uneven terrain. Over time, the constant force and pressure can cause wear and tear, which might not be obvious at first. However, continuing to drive on worn axles can lead to several major problems that you definitely want to avoid.

One of the main issues with worn axles is that they can affect your car's stability and performance. If the axle is damaged, it may not be able to transfer power from the engine to the wheels efficiently, which means your car might struggle to accelerate or handle properly. This instability can make driving more dangerous, particularly at higher speeds.

Signs of a Worn Axle

It’s not always easy to tell when your axles are starting to wear out. However, paying attention to certain warning signs can help you catch the problem before it becomes severe. Some of the most common indicators include:

Unusual Noises
If you hear clicking, clunking, or popping sounds, especially when turning or accelerating, it could be a sign that your axle joints are damaged. These noises are often more noticeable when you’re driving at lower speeds or making sharp turns.

Vibrations
A worn or bent axle can cause your car to vibrate while driving. If you feel excessive shaking, particularly at higher speeds, it’s worth having your axles checked.

Grease Leaks
If the rubber boots protecting your axle joints are cracked, grease can leak out, leading to joint failure. You might notice grease around the wheels or on the underside of your car.

How Worn Axles Can Damage Your Car

Driving with worn axles doesn’t just put you at risk of a breakdown—it can also cause damage to other parts of your vehicle. Here’s how:

Damage to the Transmission
Your car's axles and transmission work closely together. If the axles aren't functioning properly, it can put extra strain on the transmission. Over time, this additional stress can lead to transmission failure, which is an expensive repair.

Tire Wear
If the axle is not aligned correctly, it can cause uneven tire wear. This can shorten the lifespan of your tires and affect your vehicle’s traction, making it harder to handle in different driving conditions.

Suspension Issues
Worn axles can also impact your car’s suspension system. The added stress on the suspension can cause components to wear out faster, leading to a rougher ride and more frequent repairs.

If left unchecked, a worn axle can eventually break entirely, leaving you stranded and facing a costly repair bill. A broken axle means your car won't be able to move at all, as the engine’s power won’t reach the wheels.

The Safety Risks

Driving with a worn axle isn't just a matter of potential car damage—it’s a serious safety risk. If your axle fails while you’re on the road, you could lose control of your vehicle, especially if it happens at higher speeds. A broken axle can cause your wheels to lock up or come off entirely, which could lead to an accident. This is why it's so important to recognize the signs of a worn axle and address the issue before it escalates.

What You Can Do

If you suspect your axles are worn, the best course of action is to get your car inspected by a professional. They can determine the extent of the damage and whether you need an axle repair or replacement. Catching axle issues early can save you money and keep your car running smoothly.

Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent axle wear in the first place. By keeping your car in good condition and addressing minor issues before they become major problems, you’ll extend the life of your axles and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Noticing strange noises or vibrations while driving? Don’t wait for a bigger problem. Bring your car to Stang Auto Tech today for a thorough inspection of your axles and ensure your vehicle stays in top shape.

How Can I Improve My Car’s Air Quality?

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:43:00 GMT

You might not think about your car’s air quality until the air starts smelling stale or causing discomfort during your drives. However, the air inside your car can impact your health and overall driving experience, especially if it's filled with pollutants, allergens, or unpleasant odors. Maintaining clean, fresh air inside your vehicle isn’t just a matter of comfort—it’s essential for your well-being. So, how can you improve your car’s air quality and ensure a healthier environment on the road?

Replace Your Cabin Air Filter Regularly

One of the most effective ways to improve the air quality inside your car is by regularly replacing your cabin air filter. This filter works hard to trap dust, pollen, mold spores, and other contaminants before they enter the car’s interior through the air conditioning and ventilation system. Over time, the filter gets clogged, reducing its effectiveness and allowing allergens and debris to circulate through the car.

Most car manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, but it may need to be replaced more frequently if you drive in a dusty environment or areas with heavy pollen. A clean air filter will improve airflow, reduce bad odors, and enhance the overall quality of the air you breathe.

Keep Your Car’s Interior Clean

A messy car can contribute to poor air quality. Food crumbs spilled drinks, and general dirt can harbor bacteria, mold, and allergens, all of which can affect the air you breathe inside the car. Regularly vacuuming your car’s upholstery and carpets will help remove dust, debris, and other particles that can reduce air quality.

Don’t forget to wipe down the dashboard, seats, and other surfaces as well. Many cleaning products are available that are designed to eliminate odors and bacteria. If you want a more natural approach, a mixture of vinegar and water can work wonders in cleaning surfaces and neutralizing odors without leaving harmful chemicals in the air.

Eliminate Bad Odors with Natural Air Fresheners

While artificial air fresheners can mask bad odors temporarily, they often release harmful chemicals into the air that could negatively affect your health. Instead, consider natural air fresheners like charcoal-based purifiers, essential oil diffusers, or even baking soda to neutralize odors.

Activated charcoal bags are particularly effective because they absorb moisture and odor-causing particles without releasing any chemicals. Placing a small bag under your seat can help keep your car smelling fresh and prevent musty odors from building up over time.

Control Moisture Levels

Excess moisture inside your car can lead to mold and mildew growth, creating an unpleasant smell and contributing to poor air quality. Make sure to dry out any areas where water has accumulated, whether from rain, snow or spilled drinks. You can also place moisture absorbers or silica gel packets in areas where condensation builds up, such as near the windows or under the seats.

If your car smells musty or you notice moisture on the windows, it might be time to inspect your vehicle for leaks or failing seals, especially around the doors and windows.

Run Your Air Conditioning System on Fresh Air Mode

Most cars have the option to recirculate air within the cabin or bring in fresh air from the outside. While the recirculation mode is helpful for keeping the interior cool, especially on hot days, it can cause a build-up of carbon dioxide and stale air. To improve air quality, switch to fresh air mode periodically to bring in cleaner outside air.

It’s also a good idea to run the air conditioner even in cooler months to keep the system functioning properly and prevent mold or bacteria from forming inside the ducts. This will ensure that the air flowing through the system remains clean and fresh.

Don’t let bad air ruin your driving experience. At Stang Auto Tech , we’re experts in improving your car’s air quality. Visit us today for a cabin air filter replacement or an inspection to ensure your car’s interior stays fresh and clean!

Why Is the Battery Light Lit Up on My Car's Dashboard?

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 14:24:00 GMT

When the battery light suddenly appears on your dashboard, it can be quite startling. It's a warning signal that requires prompt attention, but what exactly does it indicate? Knowing the reason behind this light can prevent a breakdown and ensure you don't get stranded on the side of the road.

The Battery Light Warning

The battery light on your dashboard is not just a random warning; it's your vehicle's way of communicating a problem related to the charging system. This light typically features a battery icon and may come on for a few reasons, indicating that something in the electrical system needs attention. When the light is illuminated, it usually means that the car's battery is not being charged properly, which can affect the performance of your vehicle.

Common Reasons for the Battery Light to Appear

1. Faulty Alternator
The alternator is responsible for charging the car's battery and powering the electrical system while the engine is running. If your alternator is malfunctioning, the battery light will often illuminate. A faulty alternator fails to provide adequate power to the battery, which can lead to a situation where your vehicle's electrical components are not functioning correctly.

2. Battery Issues
While less common, a worn-out or damaged battery can also trigger the battery light. Over time, batteries can lose their ability to hold a charge, especially in extreme temperatures. If your battery is old or has a dead cell, it might not be able to support your vehicle's electrical needs, leading to the battery light coming on.

3. Loose or Corroded Battery Cables
Sometimes, the problem might be as simple as loose or corroded battery cables. These cables connect the battery to the electrical system, and if they become loose or corroded, they can disrupt the flow of electricity. This can cause the battery light to turn on as the system struggles to maintain proper charge.

4. Serpentine Belt Issues
The serpentine belt drives the alternator and other essential engine components. If this belt snaps or becomes loose, the alternator won't be able to generate power effectively. This issue can result in the battery light appearing, signaling that there is a problem with the belt or related components.

What to Do When the Battery Light Comes On

Seeing the battery light should prompt you to take immediate action. Here's a quick guide on what to do:

Check Battery Connections
Pull over safely and inspect the battery connections. Ensure that the cables are tightly connected and that there is no visible corrosion. If there is, clean the terminals and reconnect them.

Inspect the Serpentine Belt
Look at the serpentine belt for any visible signs of damage or looseness. If you see that the belt is damaged or missing, it will need to be replaced.

Test the Alternator
If you're able, test the alternator to see if it's functioning correctly. Many auto parts stores offer free testing services, or you can consult a professional for a more thorough examination.

Visit Stang Auto Tech
If the above steps don't resolve the issue or if you're unsure about performing these checks yourself, it's best to visit a professional repair shop. We can perform a comprehensive diagnostic to determine the exact cause of the battery light and recommend the necessary repairs.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Battery Light Issues

To minimize the chances of the battery light coming on in the future, consider these preventive tips:

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks for your vehicle. This includes inspecting the battery, alternator, and serpentine belt during routine services.
Battery Replacement: Replace your battery every few years, or as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure optimal performance.
Keep Connections Clean: Periodically check and clean battery connections to prevent corrosion.

Battery light giving you trouble? Let Stang Auto Tech take care of it. From inspections to repairs, our experts are here to keep your vehicle in excellent condition. Contact us today for professional service!

5 Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 12:49:00 GMT

Is your car acting weird and operating with reduced power? One likely culprit could be a failing fuel pump. This crucial component ensures your engine gets the fuel it needs to run. But when it starts to fail, it can wreak havoc on your driving experience and, in some cases, leave you stranded on the side of the road. Let's dive into the telltale signs of a failing fuel pump and how you can spot them before you're left stranded.

1. Difficulty Starting the Engine

One of the first signs that your fuel pump might be on the fritz is trouble starting your car. If you turn the key and the engine cranks but doesn't start immediately, it could be because the fuel pump isn't delivering enough fuel to get things going. This can be especially noticeable when the car has been sitting for a while, such as overnight. The engine needs a steady supply of fuel to ignite , and a failing pump might struggle to provide that. If this issue becomes a frequent occurrence, it's time to consider getting your fuel pump checked out.

2. Engine Stuttering and Stalling

If your car suddenly begins to stutter as if it's about to die, this is a classic symptom of a fuel pump that's failing. When the pump isn't functioning correctly, it can't maintain the proper fuel pressure, causing the engine to sputter. This stuttering might be sporadic at first but can become more frequent over time. In some cases, the engine may stall altogether, leaving you in a potentially dangerous situation. If you experience these symptoms, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected immediately to prevent a complete breakdown.

3. Loss of Power Under Stress

Have you noticed that your car struggles more when you're going uphill or carrying a heavy load? This loss of power under stress is another red flag for a failing fuel pump. When your engine demands more fuel to maintain power in these situations, a faulty pump might not be able to keep up. This can lead to a noticeable drop in performance, making your vehicle feel sluggish and unresponsive. If your car is struggling more than usual during these times, it might be a sign that the fuel pump is no longer able to meet your engine's demands.

4. Unusual Noise from the Fuel Tank

Sometimes, your car can give you auditory clues that something is wrong. A failing fuel pump often produces a distinct whining or humming noise coming from the fuel tank. While a slight hum is normal when the pump is running, a louder, more pronounced noise can indicate trouble. This sound typically occurs when the internal parts of the pump are wearing out or there's an issue with the pump's motor. If you hear such noises, especially if they get louder over time, it's a good idea to have a professional check it out.

5. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

A less obvious but equally important sign of a failing fuel pump is a sudden drop in your car's fuel efficiency. If you notice that you're filling up your gas tank more often than usual, it could be because your fuel pump isn't delivering fuel efficiently. When the pump fails to supply a steady stream of fuel, your engine may end up burning more fuel to compensate. This inefficiency affects your wallet and indicates that your fuel pump is on its last legs. Keeping track of your fuel consumption can help you catch this issue early.

If you're experiencing any of these issues, don't wait until it's too late. Schedule an inspection with Stang Auto Tech today!

Overlanding Gear Essentials for the Ultimate Off-Road Camping

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 11:45:00 GMT

Have you ever dreamed of leaving the hustle and bustle of daily life behind and embarking on an epic adventure through rugged terrains? Overlanding combines the thrill of off-roading with the joy of camping, allowing you to explore remote destinations while being self-sufficient. However, to make the most out of your overlanding journey, having the right gear is crucial. Let's dive into the essentials that will ensure your off-road camping adventure is safe and enjoyable.

Why Overlanding Captivates Enthusiasts

Overlanding is more than just a trip; it's a lifestyle that brings you closer to nature and challenges your self-reliance. Unlike traditional camping or road trips, overlanding often involves traveling to uncharted territories with scarce amenities. This means your vehicle becomes your mobile home, and being well-prepared is vital for a successful journey. Each piece of equipment plays a pivotal role in your adventure, from robust off-road equipment to essential camping gear.

Essential Off-Road Gear

All-Terrain Tires
The foundation of any successful overlanding trip is a set of reliable all-terrain tires. These tires are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from rocky paths to muddy trails, ensuring that your vehicle maintains traction and stability. Investing in high-quality all-terrain tires can make a significant difference in your vehicle's performance and your overall safety.

Recovery Gear
No matter how skilled a driver you are, getting stuck is an inevitable part of overlanding. This is where recovery gear comes into play. Essential items include a sturdy winch, recovery straps, D-shackles, and traction boards. A winch can help you pull your vehicle out of tricky situations, while recovery straps and D-shackles are invaluable for towing. Traction boards provide the grip needed to get your vehicle moving again in sandy or muddy conditions.

Portable Air Compressor
Tire pressure management is crucial when overlanding. Lowering your tire pressure can improve traction on soft surfaces, but you'll need to inflate them back to normal when you hit the pavement. A portable air compressor allows you to adjust your tire pressure on the go, ensuring optimal performance and safety across different terrains.

Must-Have Camping Gear

Roof Top Tent
When it comes to camping in the great outdoors, a roof-top tent is a game-changer. Mounted on top of your vehicle, these tents are quick to set up and provide a comfortable and elevated sleeping area. They keep you safe from ground-dwelling critters and save valuable space inside your vehicle for other gear.

Portable Kitchen Setup
Cooking delicious meals in the wilderness is one of the joys of overlanding. A portable kitchen setup includes a compact stove, cookware, utensils, and a portable fridge or cooler. Look for gear that is durable and easy to pack. Being able to prepare and enjoy a hot meal after a long day of driving is a luxury that enhances the overlanding experience.

Water Filtration System
Access to clean drinking water is vital when overlanding. Carrying large quantities of water is not always feasible, which is why a reliable water filtration system is a must. Whether you choose a portable filter pump or purification tablets, having the means to filter water from natural sources ensures you stay hydrated and healthy throughout your journey.

Staying Powered and Connected

Portable Power Station
Modern overlanding often involves the use of electronic devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment. A portable power station allows you to charge your devices and power small appliances while off the grid. Look for one with multiple charging ports and a solar panel option for sustainable energy replenishment.

Navigation Tools
While smartphones and GPS devices are useful, having a reliable set of traditional navigation tools is essential for overlanding. This includes topographic maps, a compass, and a GPS device specifically designed for off-road use. These tools ensure you can find your way even in areas with limited or no cellular coverage.

Safety and First Aid

Comprehensive First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, and being prepared with a comprehensive first aid kit can make a significant difference in emergency situations. Your kit should include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. Additionally, consider taking a basic first aid course to be better prepared for any situation.

Emergency Communication Devices
In remote areas, staying connected can be challenging. An emergency communication device, such as a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB), ensures you can call for help if needed. These devices are designed to work in areas where traditional mobile networks do not, providing peace of mind on your adventure.

Don't let poor preparation ruin your trip. Head to Stang Auto Tech for all your overlanding vehicle needs and enjoy a hassle-free adventure.

Signs of a Bad Ignition Coil: What Should You Look For?

Fri, 31 May 2024 07:36:00 GMT

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, some issues are more critical than others. One component that often flies under the radar until it's too late is the ignition coil. This small but mighty part plays a crucial role in your car's performance, converting the battery's voltage into the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel. But how do you know when your ignition coil is failing? Let's explore the signs and what to do if you suspect a problem.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Coil

Recognizing the early signs of a failing ignition coil can help you address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. Here are the most common symptoms to watch out for:

1. Engine Misfires and Rough Idling
One of the first signs of a bad ignition coil is engine misfires . If your engine is misfiring, you might notice a jerking motion while driving, especially when accelerating. This happens because the ignition coil isn't providing enough voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in incomplete combustion.

Rough idling is another indicator. If your car feels shaky or unstable when idling, it could be due to a faulty ignition coil.

2. Poor Fuel Economy
A failing ignition coil can cause a drop in fuel efficiency. When the coil isn't working correctly, the engine may not burn fuel efficiently, leading to increased fuel consumption. If you find yourself filling up the tank more often than usual, it might be time to check your ignition coil.

3. Difficulty Starting the Car
If your car is hard to start or doesn't start at all, the ignition coil could be the culprit. The coil needs to generate a high voltage to start the engine. When it fails, starting your car becomes a challenge.

4. Check Engine Light Is On
The check engine light is a catch-all warning for many issues, including ignition coil failure. If this light comes on, get your car diagnosed by a professional. At Stang Auto Tech , we can pinpoint the exact problem and recommend the best course of action.

Diagnosing a Faulty Ignition Coil

Here's how our technicians diagnose the issue:

1. Using an OBD-II Scanner
An OBD-II scanner can read trouble codes from your car's computer. If the scanner indicates a misfire or a related ignition issue, it could point to a faulty ignition coil.

2. Visual Inspection
Inspecting the ignition coil for visible damage, such as cracks or burns, can also help diagnose the problem. These physical signs often indicate that the coil is failing and needs replacement.

3. Swap Test
Another method is to perform a swap test, swapping the suspected bad coil with a good one from another cylinder. If the problem moves with the coil, the culprit is found.

Preventative Maintenance for Ignition Coils

Regular maintenance is key to avoiding failing ignition coil issues. Here are some tips:

1. Regularly Replace Spark Plugs
Old or worn-out spark plugs can strain the ignition coil. To keep the ignition system in top shape, ensure you replace spark plugs at the recommended intervals.

2. Address Engine Problems Promptly
Ignoring engine issues can lead to further damage, including to the ignition coil. Address any engine problems as soon as they arise to prevent additional wear and tear.

What to Do If You Suspect Ignition Coil Failure

If you suspect your ignition coil is failing, don't wait. Here's what you should do:

Get a Professional Diagnosis: Take your car to a trusted technician like Stang Auto Tech . We can accurately diagnose the issue and recommend the right solution.
Replacement: If the ignition coil is indeed failing, replacing it promptly is needed to avoid further engine damage.
Follow Up with Maintenance : After replacing the coil, follow up with regular maintenance checks to ensure your ignition system stays in good condition.

Is your car showing signs of ignition coil failure? Contact Stang Auto Tech now for a professional assessment and repair!

Symptoms, Causes, & Solutions for Turbocharger Problems

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:12:00 GMT

In automotive engineering, turbochargers are marvels of modern technology, elevating engine performance and efficiency to new heights. However, like any intricate machinery, turbochargers are prone to malfunctions that impede performance and reliability. We embark on a journey to solve the mysteries of turbocharger problems and address these issues effectively.

The Basics of the Turbocharger

Turbochargers operate on the principle of forced induction, utilizing exhaust gasses to spin a turbine connected to a compressor. This compressor pressurizes the intake air, allowing for greater power output from the engine. However, this intricate process can be disrupted by many factors, leading to a range of symptoms that signal underlying issues.

Symptoms of Turbocharger Problems

One of the first steps in troubleshooting turbocharger issues is recognizing the symptoms that indicate potential problems. While the manifestation of these symptoms may vary depending on the nature of the issue, there are several common indicators to watch out for. These include diminished engine performance, a noticeable loss of power and acceleration , and excessive smoke emanating from the exhaust, signaling potential oil leaks or burning. Peculiar sounds such as whining, grinding, or hissing noises may signify mechanical issues within the turbocharger assembly.

Investigating the Root Causes

To effectively address turbocharger problems, it's essential to identify their underlying causes. These can range from relatively mild issues such as clogged air filters or loose connections to serious malfunctions like oil contamination or bearing failure. Turbocharger problems often stem from inadequate lubrication or insufficient cooling , leading to premature wear and tear on critical components.

Resolving Turbocharger Woes

Once the symptoms and root causes of turbocharger problems have been identified, the next step is implementing appropriate solutions. Depending on the nature and severity of the issue, these solutions may vary significantly. Simple repairs or adjustments may be sufficient in minor problems such as boost leaks or wastegate issues. However, more severe issues such as bearing failure or turbine damage may necessitate component replacement or even a complete turbocharger overhaul.

Proactive Maintenance and Upgrade Strategies

In addition to addressing existing problems, proactive maintenance is key to ensuring your turbocharged vehicle's long-term health and performance. This includes regular inspection of key components, adherence to manufacturer-recommended service intervals, and vigilant monitoring of boost levels and exhaust temperatures.

For enthusiasts seeking to unlock the full potential of their turbocharged vehicles, aftermarket upgrades and performance enhancements offer an enticing opportunity to boost power output and reliability .

Don't let car troubles stall your journey. Trust Stang Auto Tech for expert repairs and maintenance. Schedule your visit today.

How To Maintain The Cooling & Other Connected Systems

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 13:56:00 GMT

Are you tired of sweating over unexpected car troubles? Your vehicle's cooling and connected systems are crucial in keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing costly breakdowns.

The Importance of Cooling and Connected Systems

Your vehicle's cooling system regulates engine temperature, prevents overheating, and maintains optimal performance. Connected systems, including the heating system, air conditioning, and electrical components, work in tandem to provide comfort and functionality while driving. Neglecting these systems can lead to overheating, poor performance, and potential breakdowns.

Check Coolant Levels

One of the simplest yet most vital maintenance tasks is checking your vehicle's coolant levels regularly. Ensuring that the coolant reservoir is topped up to the recommended level helps maintain proper engine cooling. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which can cause significant engine damage . By staying vigilant and topping up coolant as needed, you can help prevent potentially costly repairs.

Flush and Replace Coolant

Over time, coolant can degrade and become contaminated with dirt, rust, and other impurities. This can diminish its effectiveness in cooling the engine and lead to corrosion within the cooling system. To combat this, it's essential to follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for coolant flush intervals. Flushing the system and replacing the coolant with fresh, clean fluid helps ensure optimal cooling performance and protects against corrosion.

Inspect Belts and Hoses

The belts and hoses in your vehicle's cooling system play a critical role in circulating coolant and maintaining proper engine temperature. Periodically inspect these components for signs of wear, cracking, or leaks. Over time, belts can become brittle, and hoses may develop cracks or weak spots, compromising their ability to function effectively. Promptly replacing any damaged belts or hoses helps prevent unexpected failures and ensures the continued operation of your vehicle's cooling system.

Clean Radiator and Condenser

Your vehicle's radiator and condenser are responsible for dissipating heat generated by the engine. However, they can become clogged with dirt, debris, and insects over time, hindering airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. Regularly cleaning these components with a soft brush or compressed air helps maintain optimal heat transfer and prevents overheating. By incorporating this simple maintenance task into your routine, you can help prolong the life of your vehicle's cooling system.

Test Thermostat Operation

The thermostat is a crucial component of your vehicle's cooling system, regulating the flow of coolant to maintain the optimal engine temperature. Periodically testing the thermostat ensures that it opens and closes correctly, allowing coolant to circulate as needed. A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to overheating or insufficient engine warming, so addressing any issues promptly is essential. Regularly testing the thermostat can identify potential problems early and avoid more significant issues.

Additional Maintenance Tips for Connected Systems

Schedule regular inspections and servicing of your vehicle's air conditioning system to ensure it operates efficiently, especially during hot summer months. Replace worn-out components such as filters and recharge refrigerant as needed to maintain cool, comfortable driving conditions.

Inspect battery terminals, cables, and connections regularly to ensure a reliable electrical system . Clean corrosion from terminals, tighten loose connections and test battery voltage to prevent starting issues and electrical failures.

Avoid costly repairs down the line. Maintain your car's cooling system and all other connected components with Stang Auto Tech's expert technicians. Call now!

How To Prevent Timing and Auxiliary Belt Slipping

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Ever experienced the frustration of timing or auxiliary belt slipping in your vehicle? Fear not, as we're about to explore effective strategies to prevent this common automotive headache. Let's dive in and ensure your belts stay in sync for smooth and trouble-free driving!

Timing and Auxiliary Belts

Timing and auxiliary belts play a crucial role in the operation of your vehicle's engine and auxiliary systems. The timing belt, also known as the cambelt, synchronizes the rotation of the engine's crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that valves open and close at the correct intervals. On the other hand, auxiliary belts power ancillary components such as the alternator , power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.

Common Causes of Belt Slipping

Over time, belts can deteriorate due to exposure to heat, friction, and contaminants, leading to loss of tension and increased susceptibility to slipping.

Incorrect belt tension, whether too loose or too tight, can cause slippage and premature wear. It's essential to follow manufacturer recommendations for proper tensioning during installation or replacement.

Oil or coolant leaks onto the belt surface can compromise traction, causing it to slip. Regularly inspect your vehicle for leaks and address any issues promptly to prevent belt damage.

Strategies for Preventing Belt Slipping

Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Keep a vigilant eye on your belts for signs of wear, cracking, or glazing. Replace them at the manufacturer-recommended intervals or sooner if necessary to prevent unexpected failures.

Proper Tensioning
Ensure that belts are correctly tensioned according to manufacturer specifications. Use a belt tension gauge to achieve the optimal tension, taking care not to over-tighten, which can strain components.

Address Fluid Leaks Promptly
Monitor your vehicle for signs of fluid leaks and address them promptly to prevent contamination of belt surfaces. Regularly check oil, coolant, and power steering fluid levels and repair any leaks immediately.

Avoid Overloading Ancillary Components
Be mindful of overloading ancillary components driven by the auxiliary belt, such as the alternator or power steering pump. Excessive strain can lead to belt slippage and premature wear.

Quality Replacement Parts
When replacing belts, opt for high-quality, OEM or OEM-equivalent parts to ensure proper fitment and longevity. Cheap or inferior belts may not provide the same level of performance and reliability .

Answering Common Questions:

How do I know if my timing or auxiliary belt is slipping?

Signs of belt slipping include squealing noises, visible wear or damage on the belt surface, fluctuations in engine performance, and warning lights on the dashboard.

Can belt slipping cause damage to other engine components?

Yes, belt slipping can lead to increased friction and heat generation, potentially damaging pulleys, bearings, and other components driven by the belt.

Is DIY belt replacement recommended, or should I leave it to professionals?

While some experienced DIY-ers may tackle belt replacement, it's generally advisable to entrust this task to trained automotive technicians with the expertise and tools to ensure proper installation and tensioning.

Stang Auto Tech is here to help with all your belt and vehicle problems as a whole! Just contact us, and we will happily schedule you for a visit ASAP.

Drivetrain - Components, Function, and Maintenance

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 22:52:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered what makes your car move forward? It's not just about turning the key and stepping on the gas pedal. Your car has a complex system of parts that work together to make it go.

Below, we'll take a closer look at the drivetrain of your car and explain what each part does. We'll also talk about how to take care of your drivetrain so that your car can keep running smoothly. So, let's dive in and unravel the mystery behind this essential aspect of your vehicle!

Understanding Your Vehicle's Drivetrain

When it comes to your vehicle's drivetrain, it's important to understand the key components that make it all work together. The transmission is responsible for distributing power from the engine to the wheels, optimizing power delivery. There are both automatic and manual transmissions, but they share the same goal.

The differential, located between the wheels, allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is essential for smooth turns. Different types of differentials, such as open, limited-slip, and electronic differentials, cater to different driving needs.

The driveshaft serves as the connection between the transmission and the differential, transferring power to the wheels. Finally, the axles connect the wheels to the driveshaft and play a pivotal role in transmitting power and facilitating movement. By understanding these key components, you can better appreciate the mechanical marvel that is your vehicle's drivetrain.

The Drivetrains Function

The drivetrain in a vehicle is responsible for translating the power generated by the engine into motion and propelling the vehicle forward. Its primary functions include power transmission, torque distribution, adaptability, and speed regulation. The drivetrain ensures a seamless transfer of power from the engine to the wheels, allocating torque to maintain stability and enable smooth turns. It also adapts to different driving conditions, distributing power efficiently for optimal performance on various surfaces. Transmissions control the vehicle's speed by engaging different gears, offering a balance between power and fuel efficiency .

Drivetrain Maintenance Essentials

Maintaining a healthy drivetrain ensures longevity and optimal performance:

Fluid Checks: Regularly inspect transmission fluid levels and quality. Low or degraded fluid can lead to transmission issues.
Differential Service: Periodically change the differential fluid to prevent wear and tear, ensuring smooth operation.
Clutch Care (for Manual Transmissions) : If your vehicle has a manual transmission, proper clutch maintenance, including adjustments and replacements, is crucial for smooth gear transitions.
Axle Inspection: Check for any signs of damage or wear on the axles, addressing issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How often should I change my transmission fluid?

It's recommended to change transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, consult your vehicle's manual for manufacturer-specific guidelines.

Q2: Can I drive with a failing differential?

While possible, driving with a failing differential can cause further damage and compromise safety. Addressing differential issues promptly is advisable.

Q3: What signs indicate drivetrain problems?

Symptoms like strange noises during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, or vibration can indicate potential drivetrain issues . Prompt diagnosis and repairs are essential to prevent further damage.

For expert drivetrain maintenance and repairs, call Stang Auto Tech , and we will be happy to help out! When it comes to anything vehicle-related, we are always here to assist!

7 Ways To Make Your Vehicle More Fuel Efficient

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 15:04:00 GMT

In the daily course of life, cars have cemented their position as reliable companions, carrying us to and fro with unwavering dedication. This symbiotic relationship, which is often accompanied by the hum of the engine, is united in its desire for efficiency. The quest for fuel efficiency is not just a means of saving money, but also a way to make a small yet significant contribution to the environment.

1. Mindful Driving Habits

The first step to fuel efficiency lies in the gentle balance between you and the accelerator. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and maintain a steady speed. Aggressive driving not only compromises safety but also guzzles more fuel. Embrace a calm, patient driving style, allowing your vehicle to operate at its most efficient pace.

2. Regular Maintenance Checks

A well-maintained vehicle is an efficient vehicle. Oil changes , air filter replacements, and tire rotations are not mere rituals but essential practices that keep your engine running smoothly. A finely tuned engine expends less energy and, in turn, consumes less fuel. It's a win-win for both your car and your pocket.

3. Proper Tire Maintenance

Your tires - keep them properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance , demanding more fuel to keep your vehicle moving. Regularly check and maintain the correct tire pressure recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer for optimal efficiency.

4. Lighten the Load

It's easy to turn your vehicle into a mobile storage unit, carrying around items that, more often than not, are unnecessary. Extra weight places an additional burden on your engine, leading to increased fuel consumption. Clear out the trunk and remove roof racks when not in use to streamline your vehicle and improve fuel efficiency.

5. Embrace Aerodynamics

Consider your vehicle's aerodynamics, especially at highway speeds. Keep windows closed to reduce drag, and if driving at higher speeds, use the air conditioner moderately, as open windows and excessive air conditioning can both impact fuel efficiency. Your car's design is engineered for aerodynamic efficiency, so make the most of it.

6. Utilize Cruise Control

On long stretches of open road, cruise control becomes your ally in fuel efficiency. It helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by fluctuating acceleration. Engage cruise control wisely to optimize your fuel efficiency during highway driving.

7. Choose the Right Fuel

Selecting the appropriate fuel for your vehicle is often overlooked but can make a difference. Refer to your owner's manual to determine the recommended fuel type. Using higher-octane fuel when it's not required provides no added benefits and is an unnecessary expense. Stick to the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal performance.

Keep your car in top shape with the pros at Stang Auto Tech ! Just book an appointment and we will take it from there!

How Are The Battery and Starter Connected?

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 21:28:00 GMT

You turn your car key or push the start button... and nothing happens. That silence can be frustrating, right? You immediately realize that the intricate process between your car's battery and starter has missed a step. Understanding how these two critical components are connected could save you from being stranded and ensure your day remains on track.

The Electric Duo - Battery and Starter

The relationship between a car's battery and starter is one of pure symbiosis, each relying on the other to perform their roles flawlessly. The battery is your vehicle's reservoir of electrical power, a box of potential energy waiting for its cue to electrify your car's systems. In contrast, the starter is akin to a valiant knight; it springs into action when called upon, wielding electric current as its sword to awaken your engine from its slumber.

Turning Chemical Energy Into Motion

At the heart of this connection lies a series of events that begin with chemical reactions inside your battery. As you engage your ignition, the battery converts its stored chemical energy into electrical energy in an instant. This electrical power flows through thick cables directly to your starter motor.

Now, envision the starter motor as an electrically powered piston that kicks into life, engaging a small gear (the pinion) with a larger gear (the flywheel) attached to the engine. As electricity from the battery energizes the starter motor, it causes the pinion to spin and turn the engine over—literally starting it up.

The Relay

But wait - there's an intermediary player in this process: the starter solenoid or relay. Acting as a kind of traffic cop for electricity, it ensures that high-current doesn't flow until it absolutely needs to. When you turn the key or push that button, a smaller current passes through the solenoid coil first. This magnetically pulls down a switch that then allows high current from the battery to reach the starter motor, thus preventing any premature sparks or damage from occurring.

It's this precise orchestration—the seamless passing of current from battery to solenoid to starter—that breathes life into an inert mass of metal and rubber.

FAQs About Your Car's Electrical Lifeline

Q: What signs indicate my battery or starter might be failing?
A: Be alert for warning signals like dimming headlights, slow engine cranking, clicking sounds when attempting to start or complete failure to turn over—these could spell trouble for either component.

Q: Can I jumpstart my car if either component fails?
A: If it's solely a drained battery causing issues, jumpstarting could help. However, if it's a faulty starter motor, jumpstarting won't solve the problem.

Q: How long do batteries and starters typically last?
A: Most batteries can last between 3-5 years depending on usage and maintenance, while starters have varied life spans but often start showing issues around 100k miles.

Does your vehicle need a new battery? Give Stang Auto Tech a call, book an appointment, and we will take care of the rest!

Types Of Power Steering Systems and How To Maintain Them

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 08:18:00 GMT

Behind the seamless steering and control lies the intricate power steering system, a crucial component that enhances driving comfort and precision. Understanding the various types of power steering systems and the essential maintenance practices for each can not only prolong their lifespan but also ensure your continued enjoyment of a smooth and responsive driving experience. Explore the many types of power steering systems below, and learn the essential techniques for preserving their peak performance so that each turn of the wheel is smooth and controlled.

Hydraulic Power Steering

One of the most traditional power steering systems, hydraulic power steering relies on a hydraulic pump, powered by the engine, to assist in steering. Regular maintenance of this system involves checking the power steering fluid levels and quality, as well as inspecting the hoses and seals for any signs of leaks or wear. Additionally, ensuring the proper tension of the drive belt and conducting timely fluid flushes and replacements can preserve the efficiency and longevity of the hydraulic power steering system.

Electric Power Steering (EPS)

Modern vehicles often incorporate electric power steering systems for their efficiency and fuel economy benefits. To maintain an electric power steering system, regular checks of the electronic components and sensors are essential to ensure their proper functioning. Monitoring the system for any signs of malfunction or error codes, as well as keeping the electrical connections clean and secure, can contribute to the seamless operation of the EPS system. Additionally, staying updated with the latest software updates provided by the manufacturer can further enhance the system's performance and responsiveness.

Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)

Combining the benefits of both hydraulic and electric power steering, electro-hydraulic power steering systems utilize hydraulic pressure generated by an electric pump. Maintenance of EHPS systems involves a comprehensive approach that includes regular checks of the hydraulic fluid levels, inspections of the electronic components, and evaluations of the hydraulic pump's performance. Addressing any leaks, malfunctions, or unusual noises promptly can prevent potential system failures and ensure the continued precision and responsiveness of the electro-hydraulic power steering system.

Maintenance Tips for All Power Steering Systems:

Check the power steering fluid levels and quality to ensure optimal lubrication and cooling of the system.

Inspect the hoses, seals, and connectors for any signs of leaks, cracks, or wear, and address any issues promptly.

Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations during steering, as they can indicate potential problems within the power steering system.

Conduct timely fluid flushes and replacements according to the manufacturer's recommendations to prevent the build-up of contaminants and ensure the system's efficiency.

Seek professional assistance for comprehensive inspections and diagnostics to detect any underlying issues and prevent major system failures.

If you want to "steer away" from power steering system problems, Stang Auto Tech is the simple and dependable answer! Just book an appointment and leave the rest to our team.

What is the Best Ford Mustang Engine and Trim

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 14:23:00 GMT

When it comes to Ford Mustangs, there's one variant that stands head and shoulders above the rest—a true embodiment of American muscle and engineering prowess. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, with its supercharged V8 engine and track-inspired features, is more than just a car; it's a statement of power and performance.

The Heart of a Beast: The Supercharged V8 Engine

Under the hood of the Shelby GT500 resides a monstrous 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, hand-assembled and tuned for sheer dominance. Here's what sets it apart:

Horsepower
The Shelby GT500 roars to life with an astounding 760 horsepower. It's not just the most powerful Mustang; it's among the most potent production cars in the world.

Torque
With 625 lb-ft of torque, this engine launches you from 0 to 60 mph in a jaw-dropping 3.3 seconds. It's a rush of acceleration that leaves no room for hesitation.

Supercharger
The 2.65-liter Eaton supercharger whines with anticipation, feeding the V8 with pressurized air to create an unrelenting surge of power. It's the heart of the beast, ensuring no challenge is too great.

Precision Engineering
Every aspect of the engine is engineered for performance, from the forged connecting rods to the aluminum alloy block. The result is a masterpiece of power and durability.

The GT500 Trim: A Marriage of Performance and Luxury

The GT500 boasts distinctive styling, with aggressive aerodynamics, a massive front grille, and iconic racing stripes. It's a visual testament to its performance capabilities. Inside the cabin, you'll find leather-trimmed seats, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The GT500 includes features like the V8 we looked at above, launch control, Brembo brakes with massive rotors, an adjustable MagneRide damping system, and selectable drive modes to fine-tune your driving experience. Track enthusiasts will appreciate the included Track Apps, which provide real-time performance data, including g-force, lap times, and acceleration metrics.

Ford Maintenance and Repairs in Broomfield, CO!

For all of your trusty Ford's maintenance and repairs, make sure to head straight to Stang Auto Tech! We will be happy to assist you and get your ride roaring like brand new!

What Does the Different Colors of Exhaust Smoke Mean?

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Your vehicle's exhaust system isn't just responsible for carrying away gasses – it also communicates important clues about your engine's health. The color of exhaust smoke can be a telltale sign of underlying issues, helping you diagnose problems before they become major headaches. Let's break down the smoke signals and what they mean:

1. White Smoke:

If your exhaust is puffing out white smoke, it could indicate a few different scenarios:

Cold Weather Start: A small amount of white smoke during cold weather is normal and usually harmless.
Coolant Leak: White smoke accompanied by a sweet smell could signal a coolant leak, potentially caused by a damaged head gasket or a cracked engine block .
Burning Transmission Fluid: If you have an automatic transmission, white smoke might indicate that transmission fluid is burning in the engine.

2. Blue Smoke:

Blue-tinted exhaust smoke usually points to an oil-related issue:

Burning Oil: Blue smoke is often a sign of oil burning within the combustion chamber, which can be caused by worn piston rings, valve seals, or other engine problems.
Oil Leak: If you notice blue smoke on startup that disappears as the engine warms up, it could be due to a small oil leak .

3. Black Smoke:

Exhaust spewing black smoke indicates an issue with fuel combustion:

Rich Fuel Mixture: Black smoke might mean your engine is burning excessive amounts of fuel, often caused by a faulty fuel injector, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor.
Carbon Buildup: Over time, carbon deposits can accumulate in the engine, leading to black smoke. Regular maintenance can prevent this.

4. Gray Smoke:

Gray exhaust smoke can be a bit trickier to pinpoint:

Burning Automatic Transmission Fluid: In vehicles with automatic transmissions, gray smoke could indicate that the transmission fluid is burning in the engine.
Turbocharger Problems: If you have a turbocharged engine, gray smoke might signal issues with the turbocharger, such as oil leaks or worn seals.

Remember, while exhaust smoke colors offer valuable insights, it's best to consult a professional for an accurate diagnosis. If you notice persistent or unusual exhaust smoke, swing by Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, for a thorough inspection. Our skilled technicians will decode the smoke signals and get your vehicle back to smooth, clean performance in no time.

Solving Electrical Issues: Troubleshooting and Fixing Common Car Electrical Problems

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The evolution of the motor industry has seen the introduction of complex electrical systems in the car. Most cars today rely on a start button that relies on electricity to start and stop its engine. Your car's electrical system is important as it controls the windows, mirrors, AC, and infotainment system.

Over time, your car may develop electrical issues, which are challenging to troubleshoot, especially without the necessary tools. Here is a guide to help troubleshoot and fix common car electrical problems.

Checking the Battery

A dead or dying battery is one of the most common car electrical problems. This issue can cause the car not to start, dimmed headlights, or other electrical components not to work. You need a voltmeter to troubleshoot the problems with your battery. A reading below 12 Volts shows that your battery is dead or dying.

Testing the Alternator

The alternator is one of the most important components in your car's electrical system. It's responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running hence needs to be frequently checked, especially when the battery keeps dying on you. You need to connect a voltmeter to the battery to check if it's operating optimally. A reading below 13 volts could mean an issue with the alternator, hence a visit to the auto shop.

Check the Car's Wiring

Another common car electrical problem is the car's wiring. If the battery and alternator are functioning, the issues could be your wiring. This is the most difficult problem to diagnose due to the complex nature of electrical wiring.

During an inspection, the mechanic will check for melted insulation or use a multimeter to check for continuity.
A professional runs all these diagnoses to ascertain the extent of the damage to your electrical system before advising you on the best course of action.

If you need car electrical repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO today! Our team looks forward to meeting you.

What Are The Benefits of Using Synthetic Oil

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The market is flooded with multiple oil options that you can choose for your car. However, not all oils are equal. Your choice should depend on the car manufacturer, driving environment, viscosity grade, and oil standards. Besides, you should not compromise quality for price. After all, you want your engine to perform at its best and with minimal breakdowns. Choosing synthetic oil could be the best option because of the following.

Fewer Impurities

Most mineral oils are from natural sources, meaning they contain impurities that affect their performance. However, synthetic oils are produced from artificial products, hence having fewer impurities. This enhances the oil's performance and service life.

Reduced Friction

Friction is a major culprit when it comes to engine damage. Fortunately, synthetic oils have a molecular structure that minimizes engine friction. They are also free of impurities that often build up and cause the engine to malfunction. That means your engine will run efficiently for a long time.

Longer Service Life

Unlike mineral oils, synthetic oil does not require frequent changes because it has a longer service life. The oil is efficient because it features decreased evaporation loss and oxidation resistance. Besides, it has durable anti-wear properties that allow the engine to run more efficiently regardless of how often you use the car.

Reliable Viscosity Index

A higher viscosity index is one of the most notable things about synthetic oil. It is more resistant to temperature changes. The oil will maintain flow ability when temperatures lower and will not thin out due to high temperatures. Instead, the oil forms a protective layer that prevents wear and tear.

Higher purity and quality levels make synthetic oils an ideal option for your automotive. Besides, the oils can be tailored to suit different engine requirements, so you'll always find something for your car. So, if you need an oil change, get your car into Stang Auto Tech, and we'll be at your service.

How to Prevent Engine Overheating

Tue, 30 May 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Your car's engine is the heart of the vehicle, and it's important to keep it running at the right temperature. An overheated engine can cause significant damage, and it's not something you want to experience while driving. If you want to learn of ways to fend against an overheating engine, keep reading.

Check the Coolant Level

The coolant in your car's engine plays a crucial role in keeping it at the right temperature. Check the coolant levels often and top it up if necessary. Just be sure to use the right type of coolant for your vehicle, or else it can do more harm than good.

Monitor the Temperature Gauge

Most modern cars have a temperature gauge that shows the engine's temperature. Keep an eye on the gauge and stop the car immediately if it starts to climb into the danger zone.

Keep the Radiator Clean

The radiator is accountable for dissipating the heat from the engine. Make sure it is clean and free from debris that can block the airflow. You can clean the radiator with a hose or pressure washer.

Check the Radiator Fan

The radiator fan helps to cool the motor by drawing air through the radiator. Check that the fan is working correctly, and replace it if necessary.

Replace the Thermostat

The thermostat regulates the engine's temperature by controlling the flow of coolant. If it's not working correctly, it can cause the engine to overheat. Replace the thermostat if you notice any issues.

Avoid Idling for Long Periods

Idling for long periods can cause the engine to overheat, especially in hot weather. If you need to park the car for an extended period, turn off the engine and let it cool down before restarting.

Preventing your engine from getting too hot requires regular maintenance and careful driving habits. Following these tips ensures your engine stays at the right temperature and avoids costly repairs. If you're experiencing any problems with your motor, don't hesitate to bring it to Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO.

Is It Bad to Wait Until the Fuel Light Comes on Before Filling Up (Or Is It a Myth)?

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:13:00 GMT

Like many drivers, you may have heard the old myth that it's frowned upon to let your fuel level get too low before filling up. Some believe that running on a low tank can damage your fuel pump or even clog your fuel injectors. But is this really true, or is it just a myth?

The truth is that running your fuel level too low can cause problems for your car in the short and long term. Here's what you need to know:

Potential Short-Term Problems:

Stalling : When your fuel level gets too low, your engine may not be able to get enough fuel to keep running, and it may stall out.

Reduced Performance: As the fuel level drops, your car may start to experience reduced performance, especially during acceleation.

Fuel Pump Damage: Running your car on a low fuel level can cause your fuel pump to work harder, which can lead to premature wear and even damage.

Potential Long-term Problems:

Fuel Injector Clogging : Over time, debris can accumulate in your fuel tank. If you regularly run on a low fuel level, you may be more likely to pick up debris and clog your fuel injectors.

Catalytic Converter Failure: When you run on a low fuel level, your car may have to burn fuel that is not properly mixed with air. This can cause damage to your catalytic converter, which is responsible for reducing harmful emissions.

Costly Repairs: If you regularly run on a low fuel level, you may be putting your car at risk for costly repairs down the road. A damaged fuel pump or clogged fuel injectors can be expensive to fix.

So, what's the bottom line? While it's unlikely that driving on a low fuel level once or twice will cause significant damage to your car, it's important to ensure that you don't make it become a habit. The best way to avoid potential problems with your car is to fill up your tank before the fuel level gets too low, ideally before the fuel light comes on. Trust us when we say that it may even save you money on repairs in the long run.

For all your auto service and repair needs, please call or visit the auto repair experts at Stang Auto Tech.

Common Off-Roading Vehicle Repairs

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Off-roading is an exciting and thrilling activity, but it can also strain your vehicle excessively. If you are an off-roading enthusiast, you may be familiar with the common repairs your vehicle may require. At our auto repair shop, we have seen all sorts of issues that arise from off-roading. Our certified techs can assist you with the following repairs:

Suspension issues : Your vehicle's suspension is designed to absorb shocks and vibrations that come with off-roading. However, when you are driving on rough terrains or over obstacles, your suspension can take an extra beating. You may notice your vehicle bouncing excessively, or it may feel like it is sagging in one corner. These are key signs that your suspension needs repairs. Suspension repairs may involve replacing worn-out shocks or struts, bushings, ball joints, or control arms.
Damaged undercarriage : When you are off-roading, rocks, boulders, and other obstacles can damage the undercarriage of your vehicle. This can lead to problems with your exhaust system and other critical components. If you hear sounds coming from underneath your vehicle, it's time to bring it in for an inspection of the undercarriage.
Tire and wheel damage : Your tires and wheels are one of the most important parts of the off-roading experience, but they are also the most vulnerable. You may encounter sharp rocks, sticks, or other obstructions that can puncture your tires. You may also damage your wheels by hitting rocks or curbs. Tire and wheel repairs may involve patching or replacing your tires or repairing or replacing your wheels.
Electrical problems : Your off-roading vehicle may require electrical repairs if you experience issues with your lights, winch, or other accessories. Water damage can cause electrical problems, and you may notice that your electrical components are not functioning correctly. Your mechanic may need to diagnose the issue and replace any damaged components.
Brake repairs : Off-roading can take a toll on your vehicle's brakes. If you notice that your brakes are noisy or that your vehicle takes longer to stop, it's time to bring it in for repairs. Your mechanic may need to replace your brake pads, rotors, or calipers.

If you notice any of the issues mentioned above, it's essential to bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech for repairs as soon as possible so that you can continue your off-road adventures.

What is the Cylinder Block of the Engine?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:00:00 GMT

The engine is the heart of the vehicle, and the cylinder block is the core of the engine. The cylinder block houses various engine components, including the cylinders, pistons, and crankshaft. It also provides support for the cylinder head and intake and exhaust manifolds.

The cylinder block is typically made of cast iron or aluminum and is designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures. It houses the cylinders, which are where the fuel is burned and converted into energy. The pistons are connected to the crankshaft and move up and down within the cylinders to create the force that drives the vehicle. The cylinder block also manages the engine's oil and coolant.

If the cylinder block is damaged or not functioning right, it can lead to a variety of engine problems. Some of the signs of a damaged cylinder block include:

Engine Misfires: Misfires occur when the engine skips one or more of the cylinders, leading to a rough ride and poor fuel economy.
Overheating: The cylinder block manages the engine's coolant, so if it is damaged, the engine may overheat.
Oil Leaks: A damaged cylinder block can cause oil leaks, which can lead to low oil pressure and engine damage.
Low Compression: The cylinders and pistons work together to create compression, so if the cylinder block is damaged, it can lead to low compression, which can affect the engine's performance.

To prevent engine block problems, you need to take proper care of the engine and get regular maintenance checkups. This can include anything from regular oil changes to air filter replacements. If you suspect that your cylinder block is failing, it's important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the extent of the damage and whether it can be repaired or needs to be replaced. We invite you to Stang Auto Tech for top-notch engine repairs.

Wheel Alignment or Tire Balance: Which Do You Need?

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Your car tires and wheels make up a significant part of your car and influence your driving experience. When they are not in their best condition, driving can become a problem. Before we discuss how wheel alignment and tire balance are different, let's look at how they are similar. Although they are different processes, they contribute to a smoother ride and make driving longer distances a more pleasant experience.

What is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment is unique for every vehicle. It refers to an adjustment of your car's suspension system. This is the system that connects your vehicle to its wheels. It does not involve adjusting the tires themselves. A good wheel alignment will keep your car from veering to the right or the left on the road when you are not tightly controlling the steering wheel. If your vehicle needs wheel alignment, these are the signs you will notice

The car will start pulling to one side of the road.
The tires are squealing, especially when making turns
The steering wheel tilts off-center when you are driving
The steering wheel will vibrate when accelerating
You may notice the tire treads wearing out prematurely or unevenly.

What is Tire Balance?

Tire balancing is a service performed on cars to correct uneven weight distribution. Usually, when you get new tires installed, they need to be balanced before you can take the car on the road. To perform a tire balancing, your auto shop professional will apply different weights to the planes on either side of the rims. This way, they can correctly measure each tire's weight capacity and balancing. If your car has unbalanced tires, you may notice the following signs

Uneven tire wear
A humming sound from the tires
The car may vibrate when driving on smooth roads
If you are driving above 60 mph, the car may start to shake violently.

Engine Replacement Versus Buying a New Car

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:01:24 GMT

When your car nears the end of its life, engine problems become inevitable. That is why some people with severe engine damage have to choose between two options: getting an engine replacement or buying a new car. Fortunately, you can count on the team at Stang Auto Tech to find the better option for you.

The cost of swapping out a vehicle engine may sound daunting as it can cost several thousand dollars. When compared to a monthly car payment, it may seem way out of your reach. However, a new car costs you way more than several thousand dollars altogether. Even if you decide to buy a new, pre-owned vehicle, you could be faced with additional costs like maintenance and repairs. Sometimes, fixing the nightmare of engine damage is better than taking the financial risk of buying a new car.

Types of Engine Replacements
An engine replacement service is precisely what it sounds like. It means completely removing the old engine and installing a new engine or new engine parts. The engine can be replaced by one of the following:

Brand New Engine ($$$) - Being the most expensive option, a brand new engine is the surest way it will run like new. It is also tougher to get your hands on since they are made and supplied by the automaker. There are limited quantities made.
Remanufactured Engine ($$) - Remanufactured engines are the most popular types used for engine replacement service. This type meets the OEM tolerances, durability, and quality. The engine core or block is detached and usually salvaged, and all its other parts are replaced.
Used Engine ($) - There are risks to replacing a bad engine with a pre-used engine as it does not give you the security and benefits of using brand-new components. It is a cheaper option if you want something to last you short term.
Refurbished Engine ($) - A refurbished engine involves figuring out which part of the engine is the problem and only replacing the failing parts. The mildly worn parts aren’t typically cared for, and only the parts that caused problems are replaced. This is less labor-intensive than the other options.

If you are interested in our engine repairs or engine replacement services, please turn to the local experts at Stang Auto Tech. We deliver top-notch service with quality workmanship at fair prices. Please give us a call or visit soon!

How Does Maintenance Differ with Hybrid Vehicles?

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Most people are under the impression that hybrid (and electric) vehicles don’t require maintenance at all. However, that is far from the truth. While hybrid cars require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles, they still need specific procedures to ensure their reliability and performance on the road.

Is Hybrid Maintenance More Expensive?

Owning a hybrid vehicle is all about saving money on gas, but does it yield savings in the auto repair shop too? In some cases, it does cost less to maintain a hybrid than conventional automobiles. But, the maintenance costs should be very similar. The most significant difference is noticeable in brake services since hybrid vehicles can go longer between brake replacements.

What Are the Major Differences in Maintenance between the Two?

Both hybrid and gas-powered cars have combustion engines, so their maintenance overlaps quite a bit. They need oil changes, fluid flushes, belt replacements, tire services, wiper replacements, and more. As a hybrid vehicle ages, it may require additional focus to preserve the battery. Battery replacements tend to be more expensive for hybrids than gasoline-powered vehicles. But the most notable difference is with their brake services, with hybrid vehicles requiring less frequent service.

It is important for you to leave your hybrid vehicle to professional and experienced technicians. Even though hybrid vehicles are more popular now than before, they require specialized skills and equipment for service. Fortunately, Stang Auto Tech is the most trusted auto repair shop in the area. We deliver exceptional services and careful attention to detail when it comes to hybrid service and repairs.

If you are looking for a dependable repair shop to take care of your hybrid vehicle’s needs, look no further than Stang Auto Tech. Please call or visit us today!

Change Your Timing Belt Before It Breaks

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 01:32:00 GMT

Our vehicle's timing belt is a critical component that guarantees perfect synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft. A broken timing belt can cause severe damage to the other engine parts. Avoid repairs that cost you thousands of dollars by changing the timing belt when you reach the recommended mileage milestone.

Timing Belt

Let us find out what a timing belt is before exploring what happens when it breaks. Manufacturers use rubber to make a timing belt. They cut ridges into the continuous rubber loop for the belt to fit into the camshaft teeth. The camshaft rotates to control the crankshaft and valve in your car engine. The timing belt rotates the camshaft to control the valves and crankshaft connected to the car engine's pistons. A timing belt that works appropriately keeps the camshaft and crankshaft in synch.

Why Does the Timing Belt Matter?

Timing is essential for the pistons' up-and-down movement. Timing remains important in preventing a collision between the piston and valves. You will likely have a massive internal engine collision if the timing of the thousand revolutions per minute is slightly off.

What Happens When Your Timing Belt Breaks?

If a timing belt breaks, it can damage your engine beyond repair. You will likely hear a loud noise before the engine stops. The engine valves in a car with an interference engine will remain open once the camshaft stops. A vehicle with a heavier crankshaft will continue to rotate, leading to the following engine damages

Destroyed Cylinder head or block
Broken or bent valves
Damaged pistons.

The damages will be less severe in a non-interference engine. Regardless, your car's engine will stall, leaving you stranded if you were driving.

Hire an Expert to Replace Your Vehicle's Timing Belt

Generally, no one wants an engine replacement or a major engine rebuild. Following your manufacturer's recommendation, you can avoid disastrous engine failure or inconveniences. Check your owner's manual for the estimated mileage to replace your timing belt.
If you need timing belt replacement by an experienced expert, visit Stang Auto Tech or bring your vehicle for repair today!

Is Your Vehicle Having Trouble Starting?

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:00:00 GMT

Is your vehicle having trouble starting? If so, you're not alone. Every day, auto repair shops across the country see vehicles with starting problems. In most cases, these problems can be fixed relatively easily. However, if you don't address the problem quickly, it could lead to bigger and more expensive repairs down the road. It could also cause you to miss important appointments or even be late for work.

There are a few common reasons why vehicles have starting problems. One of the most common is a dead battery. If your battery is more than three years old, it's probably time to replace it. Another common reason for starting problems is a faulty starter. The starter is what turns the engine over when you turn the key in the ignition. If it's not working properly, the engine won't start. Trouble in starting your car could also be caused by a fuel system problem which are often caused by bad spark plugs or a dirty air filter. This is why it's important to get regular tune-ups for your vehicle.

In addition, extreme weather conditions can also cause starting problems. If it's very cold outside, for example, your car's battery may not have enough power to start the engine. This is why it's always a good idea to keep a jumper cable in your car in case of an emergency.

Lastly, another common reason for starting problems is simply because you're out of gas. It sounds like a no-brainer, but it happens to a lot of people. If your car is running low on gas, it may not have enough power to start the engine. So, if you're having trouble starting your car, be sure to check your gas gauge.

Cars on the verge of needing an auto repair are often hard to start and may require repeated attempts before the engine finally roars to life. It is important to take your car into auto shop as soon as you start experiencing these issues. Don't wait until your car won't start at all. By then, the problem will likely be more difficult and expensive to fix. So if your car is showing these signs or you're already having trouble starting your car, we invite you to bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today! Our experienced and certified technicians will diagnose the problem and get your car back on the road in no time.

What Do I Need to Check My Vehicle’s Tire Pressure?

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Being able to check your car’s tire pressure is one of the most useful things that a driver can learn. It is one of the easiest ways to maintain your car tires and keep you safe on the road. Otherwise, improperly inflated tires can cause uneven wear and run your wallet a new set of tires soon.

So What All Do You Need to Monitor Tire Pressure?

The Right Tools

First and foremost, you will need to find the right tools and equipment. A tire pressure gauge

Is a tool used to check your tire pressure. There are the good old-fashioned ones with the dial and hose, but most of them are digital now, making it easier for people to read. Next, you may need an air compressor to adjust the air pressure accordingly. There are portable ones you can buy, but they usually have them at gas stations.

The Right Numbers

After you have your tools ready, you will need to find some information before getting your hands dirty. Air pressure is measured in psi, or pounds per square inch. You will need to find your manufacturer’s recommended pressure recommendations, which can usually be found on a sticker on the driver’s car door jamb. These number rangers are what you should be looking for when measuring your front and rear tires.

The Measuring Process

Twist the tire valve cap loose and set it to the side.
Using the gauge, press it hard onto the valve. You should hear a hissing sound when a seal is created.
After you’ve read the measurements, determine if you need to fill up your tires to the recommended psi range. If so, you will use the air compressor. They usually have a nozzle that you can press onto your tires to inject with air. Make sure you don’t overfill your tires.

Driving with the wrong tire pressure can lower your fuel economy and impact the vehicle’s handling. If you want to avoid tire problems, please remember to regularly check your tire pressure. A monthly check is a good habit to get into. If you need help with your tire maintenance, we welcome you to bring your vehicle to Stang Auto Tech today!

Why Does My Car Smell Like Maple Donuts?

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 18:48:00 GMT

We all love the smell of sweet maple syrup on donuts, waffles, and pancakes. But would you imagine your car carrying that smell? Would you still find it amazing? It may not be so much of a delight. Sniffing a maple donuts smell in your automobile may be your first step to a major problem diagnosis.

So, why does your vehicle smell like someone just ate or left maple donuts in it a few minutes ago?

You Might be Having a Coolant Leak

Coolant fluid, or as some people call it, antifreeze, plays a critical role in the proper functioning of your car. In addition to regulating your engine's temperature, it prevents it from overheating. It consists of specific chemical properties for drawing the heat out from the engine. It also integrates anti-corrosive properties to maintain every part it passes through in a healthy state.

How Your Coolant Leak Translates to Maple Donuts-Like Smell

While your vehicle's mixture of water and antifreeze draws out the heat from your engine, another mechanism repurposes the warm air generated to heat up your cabin. While this happens, the warm air carries the coolant fluid smell if there is a leak in the engine. Remember that, typically, coolant fluid has a distinct sweet odor that we often compare to maple syrup.

But note that the leak might not be on the engine alone. Antifreeze flows through the radiator, heater core, hoses, and many other parts, which could also leak.

What Are The Consequences?

A maple donuts-like smell in your car means the probability of a coolant leak somewhere within this complex system. With a coolant leak comes the loss of the amount of coolant your car needs to cool down the engine. Unfortunately, your engine and its surrounding parts could suffer irreversible damage when the engine heats up.

What To Do

Engine repairs are never cheap or easy. Therefore, once you sense your car smelling like maple donuts, be sure that it immediately needs professional attention. Our auto repair shop has certified technicians who will thoroughly review every part linked to the cooling system and quickly get your car back on the road again.

So, for your vehicle servicing, we invite you to bring it to Stang Auto Tech today!

What Does the Power Steering Light Mean?

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 15:00:00 GMT

The power steering light is an orange, red or yellow dashboard signal that indicates a problem with the power steering system. This symbol is not hard to miss, as it is shaped like a steering wheel with an exclamation mark. Read on to learn more about what the power steering light could mean for your vehicle.

The reason for an illuminated power steering warning light varies depending on your vehicle's type of power steering system. The most common nature of the problem when it comes to hydraulic power steering systems is fluid leaks. When your car is running low on power steering liquid, it will trigger the warning.

A bright EPS light may also come on if your car has an electronic power steering (EPS) system. Since EPS has no fluid, there won’t be any fluid for you to monitor or maintain. Instead, the flaw may be due to an electrical fault. If you've recently removed or disconnected your car battery, you may have a battery problem that is affecting your steering capabilities.

What Should I Do If The Power Steering Light Comes On?

When the light comes on your dash, you should pull over to check it out. If you know that your vehicle has a hydraulic power steering system, be sure to double-check the fluid level by looking for the reservoir under the hood. There may be a symbol indicated on its lid. If the level is below the minimum line, you should have it topped off as soon as possible. The fluid should meet the manufacturer’s recommendation as specified in the vehicle’s owner's handbook. It may take a while for your light to reset.

If you have an EPS or if the light continues to stay illuminated, please bring your car to the experts at Stand Auto Tech. Our professional technicians can thoroughly inspect your entire power steering system to identify the nature of the problem. We will also run diagnostics and check on your electrical components if you have an EPS.

For reliable and convenient power steering repairs, please call or visit Stang Auto Tech today.

Road Trip Tips for Traveling with Pets

Wed, 25 May 2022 14:10:00 GMT

While a road trip may sound appealing, you'll need a lot of planning to take your pets along for the ride. Pets can be restless and behave in ways that can be unsafe when traveling, such as jumping on your lap while you're driving and hanging out of the window. However, taking a road trip with your pet need not be a hassle. Here are a few tips to make sure you and your pet are safe during the long drives:

Take Practice Trips

If your trip is a few months or days away, you can use that time to help your pet feel comfortable in your car and on long drives. If your pet is stressed or anxious in the car, you may want to try behavioral training. You can start with short drives and increase the duration gradually as you observe your pet's behavior.

Pack Your Pets' Essentials

As you pack your bag for the trip, consider packing a backpack for your pets. Be sure to include food and water, feeding bowls, toys, treats, medications, medical records, Kennel, plastic bags, grooming supplies, and other supplies that your pets may require. This saves you time and ensures that your pets have all they need to keep busy and be happy.

Visit a Vet

Before taking your road trip, visit your pet's vet to know if your pets are healthy enough to travel. For example, if your dog has a health issue, ask the vet if traveling may affect them and if there are any precautionary steps you should take before the trip. A vet may also give you stress-reducing or anti-nausea aids, which may be very helpful during your trip. More so, you can request the vet to microchip your pets just in case you get separated during the trip.

Prepare Your Car for the Trip

Lastly, but very important, prepare your car for the trip. This involves visiting an auto repair shop for vehicle maintenance and repair. Please feel free to bring your vehicle to Stang Auto Tech today for excellent car service!

Alternator vs Battery: What is the Difference

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 17:35:00 GMT

Have you tried to start your car, but the engine refused to cooperate? The good news is that it may not mean your engine is kaput, but that it just doesn't have enough power to turn over. When this happens, the usual culprits are the battery or the alternator. Read on for some information that can help you weed out the problem and get you back on the road.

An engine that won't start is more than likely a battery problem. Batteries have a life expectancy of 3–5 years, whereas an alternator will last for seven years or about 150,000 miles. One way you can tell if you have a bad battery is when the dashboard battery light comes on while starting your vehicle. If this happens, there's your warning; your battery needs replacing.

When Your Battery is on its Last Legs

Another way to know if it's a battery problem is when your vehicle won't start and you detect a clicking sound when you turn your key in the ignition. This is a dead giveaway that your battery is dead.

If your vehicle shows none of those signs, never fear. There is another way to figure out whether it's a battery problem, and that's with a jumpstart. By setting up a jumpstart and getting your vehicle running with this method, you have found your answer: you need a new battery.

The End of Your Alternator

However, when there isn't a problem with the battery and your vehicle still won't start, it's likely the alternator. A speedy way to check if it's the alternator is to detach the positive battery terminal and wait to see if the vehicle stops running. If it does, it's a bad alternator.

Staying aware of the warning signs your vehicle gives you, can keep you ahead of the game. This allows you to get parts fixed or replaced before they become a problem at an inconvenient moment. If you need a battery or alternator repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Stang Auto Tech today!

What Are Undercar Services?

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 14:22:00 GMT

Your vehicle's undercar contains a variety of systems working together to ensure that your vehicle drives smoothly. Keeping these undercar parts well maintained is important overall, so read on to learn more about what the undercar entails and the services needed.

Chassis

The chassis is the front frame of your vehicle that supports all of the undercar systems, including tires, driveshaft, differentials, suspension, transmission, and the engine. A weak chassis will put other important systems at risk for damage or performance issues. If you have a problem with your chassis, our experts have the experience and the tools to repair defects and get your chassis back to pristine condition.

Differentials

The differentials in your vehicle are basically what transfer power from the engine to the wheels to get your car moving at different speeds. When you turn your vehicle, the outer wheels actually travel more than the inner wheels, meaning that all four wheels travel at different speeds while turning. This differentiation in speed is the job of the differentials, hence the name!

Any problems with the differentials are major and should be inspected by our experts at the first sign of a problem.

Most people don't realize that a failing differential means a failing car. We recommend that the differential fluid is changed every 30,000 to 50,0000 miles to ensure that the differentials will work smoothly without any major issues down the road. If you're due for a differential fluid exchange, give our experts a call and we can take care of this service for you.

Exhaust

The exhaust system in your vehicle helps to funnel our exhaust fumes away from the engine and out of your vehicle. A working exhaust system is very important for your safety while inside the vehicle and also for the environment. A failing exhaust system will actually cause your vehicle to fail a state inspection for car registration. If your vehicle's exhaust system is faulty, the experts at our Kennesaw auto repair shop are here to help.

Driveline

The driveline in your vehicle has the job of connecting the engine to the wheel axles. It has an important job of transferring energy from the engine to the wheels to make your car move. If the driveline isn't working, your car will not move. It is recommended that your driveline be inspected regularly to make sure that all components are working properly. Our experts are experienced when it comes to driveline problems and can assist with any repair or service needed.

If you need undercar services performed, look no further than Stang Auto Tech!

Bad Car Habits To Avoid

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 20:34:00 GMT

Automobiles are a significant investment. If you want your car to last you for years, you must take care of it. While you may be thinking of car maintenance, good driving habits apply too. Lousy driving habits can significantly impact your car over time. It will likely break down and develop long-term problems if you're rough on your car. Below are some terrible habits to avoid doing if you want to keep your vehicle for a while:

Flying Over Rough Terrain

Potholes and speed bumps can do a number on your wheels, tires, suspension, and your steering. For example, you could risk knocking your wheels out of alignment and blowing out your tire. So next time you see a road bump, slow down and carry on with caution.

Revving A Cold Engine

If you didn't know already, engine oil needs to warm up before its lubricating properties kick in. Revving a cold engine can damage your engine components as it is not adequately lubricated yet. It would help to let your vehicle idle 30 seconds to 1 minute before driving.

Shifting Gears Too Quickly

If you're shifting gears too fast and not stopping before putting your car to and from drive, it could hurt your drivetrain, especially your transmission.

Ignoring Dashboard Lights And Warnings

Your dashboard warning lights are there for a reason: to warn you of problems and to remind you to get those problems fixed. Various warning lights include the oil pressure light, electrical light, ABS light, TPMS light, check engine light, and more. If you need help diagnosing these lights, the techs at Stang Auto Tech would be glad to help!

Not Using Your Parking Brake

Most drivers make the mistake of not using their parking brake or emergency brake every time they park. Engaging the parking brake every time releases the stress on your transmission.

If you need auto maintenance or repairs in Broomfield, CO, we invite you to bring your car to Stang Auto Tech!

Winter Maintenance Checklist For Your Car

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 19:04:00 GMT

While it's always essential to make sure your vehicle is properly cared for, maintenance services are even more critical during the winter months. During this time of year, drivers have many problems to deal with, including wet, cold, and icy conditions and early sunsets, which can significantly impact safety on the road. Below is a complete list of things you should take care of to ensure your car stays safe and reliable on the open road.

Top Off Your Wiper Fluid

While windshield wiper fluid is often forgotten about, you may find yourself running out this season! To ensure you can see through your windshield at all times, have this fluid topped off. This will help prevent your windshield from accumulating salt, mud, snow, ice, or more!

Check Your Lights

While your windshield is important to visibility, so are your vehicle lights. Now is the time to do a walk-through around your car to ensure every bulb is working and lit bright enough so that you can see at night.

Inspect Your Tires

Your tires need to be running with the right amount of inflation. Not only are underinflated tires a threat to your safety, but they can prematurely wear them down. Save some money by setting some time to implement this healthy car habit this year!

Get Your Oil Changed

Oil changes are a frequent yet essential maintenance item that every car owner has to deal with but even more so during the winter. Your engine needs proper lubrication to run efficiently and smoothly. The cold weather in Broomfield, CO, can thicken your motor oil and restrict oil flow, which is why it's important to check your oil. When in doubt, you can never go wrong with an oil change.

We understand it may be easy to blow off these services during the winter, but doing so can cost you more time and money in the long run. The team at Stang Auto Tech makes winter maintenance easy and convenient for all drivers in Broomfield, CO. If you're looking for honest and reliable auto services, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Stang Auto Tech today!

Why Your MPG Is Lower Than Usual

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 15:14:00 GMT

With the continuous advancements in the automotive industry, automotive vehicles are getting better gas mileage than ever before. You don't even need a hybrid to own a car that averages 30-40 miles per gallon. While this is a great advantage, most vehicle owners notice a drop in their MPG over time. It's easy to brush it off if you are still attaining good mileage, but this decrease in numbers is often a sign of bigger problems within your vehicle.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for Decrease in Gas Mileage?

Dirty Fuel Injectors - Fuel injectors are the parts that pump fuel to your engine. If they become leaky or dirty, less fuel will make its way to the engine, leading to a drop in performance and efficiency.
Using the A/C Too Often - If you live in a mild climate area, you should consider rolling down your windows instead of relying on your climate control system.
Poor Driving Habits - If you love pressing hard on the gas and brake pedal driver, you may be consuming more fuel than needed. Additionally, if you let your car idle for too long, you will waste gas as well.
Faulty Spark Plugs - Misfiring spark plugs can negatively impact your MPG. Please know when you need new spark plugs or have a professional mechanic check them if you are unsure.
Bad Oxygen Sensors or Air Filters - Having a clogged air filter or malfunctioning oxygen sensor can also reduce your MPG by up to 20 percent! Both these parts ensure the engine maintains a proper clean air balance, which relates to engine efficiency.
Tires - Underinflated tires will also cause a decline in fuel efficiency, as your wheels won't grip the road properly. You can store a pressure gauge in your vehicle so that you can regularly monitor your tire pressure.

If you need help examining why you need to make frequent trips to the pump, our technicians at Stang Auto Tech. We can get down to the bottom of the problem by inspecting all the potential problem areas above. Please give us a call or visit our auto repair shop in Broomfield, CO, today.

Why Is My Car Leaking Engine Oil?

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 18:57:00 GMT

Every car is prone to leak as it ages. One particular type of leak that can be very concerning is an oil leak because it can start major engine complications. The most obvious sign of an oil leak is a dark pool of oil below your car. In some cases, you might also smell the oil. The dilemma with oil leaks is that they can be harmful to the environment and hurt your engine. Since engine oil is in charge of lubricating your engine parts and minimizing friction, too low of engine oil can cause your engine parts to bump against each other. You might be wondering, "how does an oil leak happen in the first place?" Here's how!

Scenario 1 - Damaged or Deteriorated Seals

Your motor oil flows and makes contact with valves or seals. These parts can become worn over time or damaged, and they can make the oil trickle out.

Scenario 2 - Cracked Oil Pan

Your oil pan is situated close to the road surface, making it susceptible to damage. If you get into an accident, hit a bump or rubble in the road, or fly over a speed bump, the impact can fracture the pan. To avoid this from happening, please be extra cautious when driving.

Scenario 3 - Dirty Filter Left Too Long

Oil filters effectively extract an abundance of dust and other debris from the oil before it flows to the engine. An ineffective, clogged oil filter can contribute to leaks if not changed regularly. It would be best if you had it replaced at every oil change.

Scenario 4 - Bad Oil Drain Plug

Whenever you receive an oil change, your technician will remove the oil drain plug to get rid of the old oil first. Over time, this mechanism can relax or become misaligned after service. A loose oil drain plug is a common cause of oil leaks, but thankfully it is easy to fix. However, you should still have it fixed quickly, so you don't waste any more oil.

Disregarding oil leaks can lead to disastrous outcomes. You can prevent oil leaks from happening to your prized vehicle with routine oil changes and regular maintenance and inspections by our qualified techs at Stang Auto Tech. If you are experiencing an oil leak, please call or visit soon!

Happy October Fall Care Care Month!

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 18:45:00 GMT

As you can probably tell by the title of this blog, October is fall car care month! Most people only feel like they have to prepare their car for winter, but as we transition into fall, we'll have shorter days, fallen leaves, and increased possibilities of rain and fog. Not to mention, we're now entering the start of holidays such as Halloween and Thanksgiving that may require numerous road trips. There's no question that you're going to need your vehicle to be in tip-top shape for the fall season. Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you get ready for the seasonal changes.

Check all vehicle fluids.

Engine oil, power steering, brake, transmission, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze/coolant.

2. Check all belts and hoses on your car, SUV, or truck for signs of wear and tear.

They should be free of cracks, brittleness, and fraying.

3. Test and clean your battery and replace it if necessary.

The connections should be clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Please remember to pack jumper cables with you just in case of emergencies.

4. Check the brake system on your vehicle .

You must be able to come to a full stop properly to avoid accidents.

5. Inspect the exhaust system.

It would be best for you to look for leaks, damage, and broken supports. Exhaust leaks can be loud and dangerous, so please take your car to a mechanic immediately if you suspect a problem.

6. Check the engine performance to make sure you're attaining maximum power and fuel efficiency.

7. Inspect the HVAC system to ensure it's working correctly.

As the temperatures start to cool down, you may rely more on your defrosting system. Please examine the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling functions are critical for interior comfort and safety.

8. Inspect the steering and suspension system for optimal stability and control.

This includes parts like shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, and other related components.

9. Check the tires on your vehicle, including tire pressure and tread.

Uneven wear symbolizes a need for wheel alignment (and other tire services).

10. Test your wipers and lighting (interior and exterior).

As mentioned before, there may be increased chances of rain and fog, so you'll need to depend on your lights and wipers to see clearly.

These essential car care maintenance procedures will go a long way. We highly advise that you take the time now to take care of your vehicle to help you avoid headaches and costly repairs during the holiday season. For all your car care needs, please give Stang Auto Tech a call or visit soon!

What Are the Benefits of Replacing Spark Plugs?

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 18:41:00 GMT

Before we can discuss the various benefits of swapping out your old spark plugs for new ones, you should probably know what spark plugs do. Spark plugs are little metal pieces that allow the spark of electricity to ignite the combustion process needed to start your vehicle. Your spark plugs keep your car powered while providing a smooth and balanced air-fuel mixture by putting the engine's pistons to work. Because spark plug health is directly correlated to engine performance, you can imagine that you can't go anywhere without them, at least not efficiently.

If your spark plugs are due for a replacement, please do not neglect them. The primary benefit of getting this service is knowing your car will start without a hitch. Needless to say, that's not all that you can get out of a spark plug replacement. New and fresh spark plugs provide other advantages as well.

Consistent production of optimal combustion . Fully functioning spark plugs will yield a fully functioning combustion process. Once you achieve this process with your new pieces, you can say goodbye to all the performance issues you were experiencing before.
Smooth starts . The first time you switch the ignition on with a new spark plug can be an eye-opening experience. You won't have to deal with jerky or difficult starts anymore.
Boost in fuel economy . The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence claims that misfiring spark plugs can lessen fuel efficiency by 30 percent. When replaced at the correct intervals, new plugs can maximize your fuel economy and save you some coin in the long run.
Less harmful emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency states that regular vehicle tune-ups, especially regarding spark plug replacement, also reduce air pollution. That's a win-win for you, your car, and the environment.

If you are in need of a spark plug replacement or vehicle tune-up, please do not hesitate to reach out to Stang Auto Tech. Give us a call or visit our shop today!

Top Tips for College Commuting

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 12:40:00 GMT

Not all college students will have the leisure of residing on campus. Additionally, if you are attending a local community college, you may not have this option at all. Over 80% of all college students are commuters, so it is relatively common to drive to classes every day.

With the hustle and bustle of hundreds or thousands of students driving to school every morning and afternoon, you'll most likely run into some traffic or parking issues. The most important thing to remember is to give yourself sufficient time to arrive at class on time and always drive safely.

Here is some additional advice for daily college commuting that will protect you and your vehicle:

Leave for school early , especially in the first couple of weeks of the back-to-school season. This timeframe is when traffic tends to be the most congested, so there will be plenty of vehicles on the road. Departing your home early will prevent you from stressing out and speeding to school.
Plan out your parking situation ahead of time . You may have difficulties finding parking for the first several weeks, so try getting to school first to snag a good spot. Larger schools tend to have multiple parking lots, so be sure to park in the closest location to your class. You may also have to pay to park, either through a pass or a daily charge.
Look out for pedestrians around school areas. Many students will be walking on foot around campus. For everyone's safety, proceed with caution and watch out for pedestrians.
Practice safe driving when commuting to and from school . It is no question that you should always obey traffic laws and avoid speeding.
Have your vehicle inspected before the school year starts . Getting this done will ensure that your car is in tip-top shape and won't make you late to class. It will also save your parents from concerns.

We hope these suggestions will be helpful if you're planning on commuting to school. Our experienced technicians will have your car ready in no time! If your vehicle is due for an inspection or maintenance, please visit us at Stang Auto Tech.

5 Common Signs of Dirty Fuel Injectors

Sat, 03 Jul 2021 13:14:00 GMT

Dirty fuel injectors can result in some tricky situations. Your fuel injectors work with your fuel filter and pump to simultaneously provide the engine with an adequate amount of clean fuel. Over time the fuel injector quality deteriorates. How do you know when it's time to have the fuel injectors cleaned? Below are the five most common symptoms that indicate you need fuel injector repair.

POOR GAS MILEAGE

If you've had your car for a long time, then you know how far you can go on a gallon of fuel. If you notice your MPG going down, it means the engine is not performing optimally, and one reason could be a faulty injection system. It is important to note that many other problems can lead to poor gas mileage. It is best to take your car into our shop, so one of our expert technicians can correctly diagnose the problem.

CAR ENGINE MISFIRES

In severe cases, dirty fuel injectors can cause your engine to misfire. The misfire occurs when there's difficulty with the air and fuel mixture entering the engine. This problem will usually cause the car to vibrate. You might even hear a jerk and pop sound.

ROUGH IDLING WHEN YOU COME TO A STOP

When your vehicle shakes and sputters when you are stuck in traffic or coming up to a red light, it may imply that your fuel injector is dirty. Rough idling happens when your RPMs (revolutions per minute) change unexpectedly, even if your foot isn't on the pedal.

YOUR CAR CANNOT START

We all know your car needs gasoline to start. A bad fuel injector can't deliver fuel into the cylinders and power the engine. If your tank has gas and your engine doesn't run, then your injector could be the culprit.

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON

The check engine light will come on the dashboard if there isn't enough gas getting to the engine to complete the combustion process. In some cases, there may be too much fuel in the machine as well.

If you notice any of the signs above, contact us as soon as possible. If you require a fuel injector repair, we invite you to bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech today!

What Are the Signs of Low Brake Fluid?

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 19:09:00 GMT

Brake fluid is a crucial part of the car's brake system, and without it, your brake system can fail. When the brakes build up pressure, brake fluid is released into the brake pads, allowing the rotors to stop.

Not only is it essential to detect and resolve low brake fluid for your safety, but it also can be a signal of another problem within your vehicle. Low brake fluid can be caused by any of the following: brake line damaged, aging brake pads, or leakage.

Now that we established why brake fluid is essential, you may be wondering how to determine when your brake fluid is low. Here are the warning signs of low brake fluid:

Warning Light

Most of the time, the initial sign that you will notice is the warning light for your brakes. If you see this light flicker on, you more than likely have low brake fluid, and it is time to bring your vehicle into our auto shop.

Difficulty Managing Stops

Another sign that your vehicle is low on brake fluid is if you get a spongy feeling when stepping on your brakes. When your car is running low on brake fluid, condensation usually builds up in the brake system and creates a sponge-like sense.

Low/Discolored Brake Fluid

It is always important to inspect your fluid. It would be best to look for the coloring and whether any debris or particles are contaminating the fluid. We recommend that you check your brake fluid as a part of your routine to ensure that it is not running low or infected.

Recent Brake Replacement

While not necessarily a sign that your brake fluid is low, you should also have the brake system completely emptied anytime you replace your brakes.

Did your vehicle exemplify any of these signs: vehicle's warning light, a difficult time stopping, low/discolored brake fluid, and if your car has recently had a brake replacement. If your car has any of these symptoms of low brake fluid, bring it into Stang Auto Tech today to have it checked out!

How Can You Tell When Your Tires Need to be Replaced?

Wed, 12 May 2021 20:47:00 GMT

Our tires are an essential part of our safety. They help the vehicle stop suddenly when it needs to. Also, they keep us from fishtailing in the snow and on rainy days. So, if your tires are this important, you might think that you should get them replaced every six months or so, right? That is not true. Here are a few tests you can run on the tread depth of your tires to judge if you should replace them.

The Penny Test

What is the penny test? If you take a penny from your pocket and place it upside down, where Lincoln's head is facing the tire and see the head of the president on the coin, you will need to replace your tires soon. That is, you should attempt the penny test in several areas of the tire. If, however, you do not always see the head of the money, you should be okay for a little while longer.

Why You Should Worry About Tread Wear

Safety

Safety should be your top priority while out on the road. If you have poor treading on your tires, it could indicate that the vehicle will respond poorly in weather conditions like snow or rain. It also may mean that some other parts of your car will wear too soon. Replacing the tires sooner rather than later is an essential part of auto maintenance.

Potential Problem Areas

If there is excessive wear in the center of the tire, it could indicate you have a problem with over-inflation.

Excessive wear on the shoulder of the tire may be a problem with under-inflation.

If you notice uneven tread wear, this could indicate a problem with the wheel alignment.

You may notice the wear is only on one side of the tire. If so, you may be experiencing an issue with an incorrect camber angle.

Are the treads on the outside looking knobby? If so, it could mean you are having a problem with the toe-in valve.

Final Thoughts

Our vehicles get us where we need to go. You should not take chances with your safety and the safety of your family. If you need new tires, we invite you to bring your vehicle into the experts here at our shop today!

How Often Does Brake Fluid Need to Be Changed?

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:46:00 GMT

Most people often forget to change their brake fluid. They often divert their attention to brake system parts such as brake pads, forgetting that the brake fluid also needs care. The fact is that most car owners even do not exhibit a profound understanding of the brake fluid's importance. Fortunately, the brake fluid remains pivotal for efficient braking. They need a comprehensive approach in caring for the vehicle brake system to minimize mechanical failures caused by brake malfunctions.

What Does Brake Fluid Do for a Car?

The brake fluid remains essential in promoting efficiency in the car's hydraulic brake system. Therefore, if the fluid levels are low or the fluid contains moisture, or its flow is affected, the car's braking may be impeded.

How Do You Check Your Car's Brake Fluid?

You can check the fluid levels by checking its level. You can find the translucent hydraulic plastic reservoir that stores the fluid. Beware that opening the cap may expose the fluid to moisture, and you will want to avoid affecting its effectiveness unless you are in the presence of a qualified mechanic.

How Often Do You Need to Change It?

Like other car fluids such as coolant and oil, the brake fluid requires change mainly because it loses its effectiveness over time. The latter is possible if the hydraulic system has corroded or if the fluid absorbs moisture. Such effects decrease its effectiveness to stop the car when the driver steps in the brakes. In this perceptive, changing your car's brake fluid remain essential in enhancing its braking effectiveness.

Unfortunately, there exists no standard period for changing the vehicle's brake fluid. Renowned manufacturers such Mercedes Benz, Honda, and Chevrolet recommend that you change your brake fluid after 20,000 miles, 3 years, and 45,000 miles, respectively. Manufacturers for cars such as Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Camry do not specify their cars' clear fluid changing interval. However, they recommend constant monitoring for the following signs:

Notice the ABS light

Experience pedal problems

Hear strange noises

Smell anything strange

Change Your Brake Fluid Today!

Do not wait for too long to change your brake fluid if it needs attention. If you need a brake fluid change, give our auto repair shop a call today!

5 Car Noises That Require Immediate Attention

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 23:19:00 GMT

Let's say you are driving your car and you start hearing weird noises. It's important that you address the issue as soon as possible.

Understanding what type of noise you are experiencing can help you decide whether you should seek the immediate attention of a vehicle expert near you.

5 Car Noises for Immediate Attention

Let's discuss the 5 car noises that might require your immediate attention:

#1. Squealing Sound

If you hear a squealing sound from your car then it's possibly coming from the brakes. It could be because of weather or the friction between the brake rotor/disc and the brake pad. The brake pads could be of cheap quality and might have worn out. If the issue lasts longer, it's time to see an auto repair shop.

#2. Knocking Sound

If you hear a knocking sound from your car then there could be something wrong with the ignition. It's possible that the fuel in the engine could be burning unevenly causing this sound. There could be an issue with the spark plug producing such a sound.

#3. Rumbling Noise

If you hear a rumbling noise then there could be a hole in the exhaust system of your vehicle. Attaching a new muffler can help, but there could be an underlying issue and your auto repair shop can suggest the best for your vehicle.

#4. Popping Sound

If you are deriving your vehicle and suddenly experience the popping sound then it means you have a dirty air filter. There could also be some other issue which is why it's better to take your car to the auto repair shop for the service and maintenance.

#5. Grinding Noises

If you hear grinding noises from your vehicle then there could be an issue with the starter motor. It's possible it would be from the worn-out brakes. You can hear the grinding noise while changing the gears of a manual transmission system of a car which indicates an issue with the transmission.

Wrapping It Up

If you experience any unusual noise from your vehicle then it's better to get it checked from your auto repair shop. You should not take such things lightly.

Car-Related Valentine's Day Ideas

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 19:11:00 GMT

We have celebrated valentines for many years. It's time for new love languages that spark back romance and raise it a notch higher. We use vehicles each day to run daily errands, and sometimes we get used to them, forgetting the ultimate power and influence in our lives. In this valentine, Understanding the significant connection between the vehicles and valentines grants us immense power to express love uniquely to our loved ones. You don't have to break the bank to make this exciting. It's the small things you do and the thoughts that melt hearts.

Drive Their Car for Computerized Diagnostic and Repairs

Your significant other might use their car to drive the kids to school, get groceries, drive to work, run to the drug store, among many daily routines. Due to being so busy, your significant other may fail to get their vehicle to the garage for repairs. Surprise them by getting their car serviced, including getting an oil change, wiper blades replacement, taking care of factory maintenance due, among others. It communicates love and compassion by showing concern for their daily but straightforward life routines.

Enjoy a Date Over The Mountains

For a woman or man who spends most of the time with kids or running house errands, a quiet night out makes a significant difference. Get an off-road car and drive somewhere by the beach or the mountains and get lost in nature. You can play with the car lights and make them romantic. Enjoy her favorite take-out and a nice beverage. Now enjoy dancing under the moon to soul-soothing music and enjoy soul connection.

Love Theme Graphic Car Wraps

Imagine walking in the garage and finding your car wrapped in customized wraps that are a declaration of love. Heart-melting, right? You can include small gifts like chocolates, candies among others. Do not forget to get fresh flowers to complete the gift!

Vehicles are great incorporations to Valentine's Day activities. With the correct execution of a plan, you get to enjoy remarkable moments in the vehicles without breaking a bank. The thoughts, the efforts, and the planning make all the difference to make your vehicle a love-hub.

How Regular Vehicle Maintenance Saves You Money

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 18:51:00 GMT

It's important to always keep your car in the best shape possible. Routine maintenance will prevent it from being easily damaged, lengthen the life of your vehicle, and save you from expensive repairs down the road.

Your car should have optimal amounts of fluid. Low power steering fluid will damage the power steering pump and can break it, resulting in repairs that can cost more than $100 dollars. Windshield washer fluid cleans your windshield so that you will have enough visibility to avoid accidents. It also lubricates the wiper blades and washer fluid pump, keeping them from being damaged.

Low amounts of transmission fluid will overheat your transmission and can cause failure. This can damage other parts, such as the torque converter. Transmission replacements are very expensive.

Antifreeze coolant, or radiator fluid, is essential for cooling your car's engine and making it last longer. Lastly, low brake fluid may cause your brakes to malfunction, which can result in accidents.

Your vehicle should get its oil changed routinely. You can find the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. Synthetic motor oil, along with car tune-ups, increases fuel efficiency.

Have the brakes regularly inspected. Identifying and fixing brake pad problems can prevent collisions, which result in higher insurance premiums.

Change your vehicle's filters when necessary, especially the air filter. It keeps the engine from being contaminated so that it can run efficiently.

Check your car's tire pressure and make sure that tires are inflated according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. Doing this, and using the proper tire size, will increase gas mileage. Overly large tires cause increased road resistance and more fuel consumption.

Another way to save money on gas is by routinely washing your car. Large amounts of dirt increase drag, which decreases fuel efficiency.

A properly maintained car will last a long time and prevent you from having to buy a new one when you won't have the money for it. Furthermore, if your vehicle breaks down while driving, you might end up paying for towing costs and, if you are out-of-state, dealing with a mechanic you're not used to.

What are the Signs of Worn Shocks and Struts?

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 00:48:00 GMT

Driving with worn shock absorbers and struts makes your drive uncomfortable and dangerous. Besides, it increases the car's stopping distance, especially on slippery grounds. While other vehicle repairs can wait, failing shocks and struts should be treated as matters of urgency. But how do you know that your shock absorbers and struts are giving in and need some help?

The Car Is Unstable on Highway Speeds

If your car constantly veers and slides on the highway, you might be dealing with a shock absorber problem. Worn out shocks can make your vehicle overly unstable and hard to control even when driving in mild, windy conditions.

The Vehicle Tire Bounces Excessively

Failing shock absorbers translate to very bumpy and uncomfortable rides. Your tires tend to bounce, shake and rock a little too hard even over small bumps or potholes. The shock absorbers and struts help regulate the impacts and movement of the car's springs and suspensions. As such, when they are worn out, they will not be able to handle the huddles on the road leading to a rough ride.

Unusual Wearing of the Tires

Worn shock absorbers cannot hold your car tires firmly on the ground. Resultantly, your tires wear and tear in patches heightening the chances of hydroplaning and sudden flat.

Leaking Fluids on Exteriors of the Shock Absorbers and Stuarts

If you notice any signs of leaking on your shock absorbers and struts, you should consider an immediate replacement. Shocks and struts are packed with a hydraulic fluid, which helps them to counter the effects of bumps and potholes on the road. When the fluid starts leaking, it is a sign of broken seals, which tampers with the shocks' proper functioning.

The Front-End Dives on Braking or The Rear-End Squats During Acceleration

If your vehicle's front end dives on braking while the rear-end squats on acceleration, consider replacing your shocks and struts. This happens when these systems cannot handle the vehicle's domineering weight and inertia. By replacing the worn outs with new versions, you will enjoy not only a smoother ride but also an extra stopping distance. Besides, you will have better control of your car and brake confidently in case of emergencies.

Your Steering Wheel Vibrates Excessively

It is not unusual for your steering wheel to vibrate, especially when driving on rough terrains. All the same, the vibration should disappear immediately you get to a smooth road. If you notice a constant vibration throughout the driving, it is a red flag for worn shock absorbers and struts. You might even notice the vibrations escalating on highway speed.

Maintaining your vehicle's shocks and struts in shape is a matter of comfort and safety. If you want to have your shocks and struts replaced, feel free to bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop today.

Driving Tips and Car Maintenance During Cold Months

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 19:19:00 GMT

Driving in cold weather entails driving on snow and ice sometimes; therefore, there are certain things you should always remember in order to be as careful as possible.

Here are some of our driving tips and car maintenance items to take care of when driving during the cold winter months:

If you are going to set off on a long trip, make sure to share your route with someone before you actually leave.

Have an emergency kit in your car’s trunk.

Check the weather before leaving on a long trip.

Besides the weather, check the condition of your car as well.

Check the gas tank, and make sure to keep it more than half full
Check the air pressure in the tires
Check the coolant level

There is such a thing as black ice - the road may seem clear, but that doesn’t mean that it is not slippery.

Ensure that the windows of the car are both defrosted and clear. Also, you have to clear the ice from the top of the car.

While driving, leave more distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Be aware if you have antilock brakes.

Don’t use the cruise control setting in snow and ice.

If you are going uphill, do not stop, if possible.

Accelerate and decelerate slower, not too rapidly.

If you become stranded in the winter, do not wander off, leaving your vehicle. Stay with it and light flares (both in front and behind the car). Ensure that the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by anything.

You can also signal distress with a bright colored cloth attached to a rolled up window, or the car’s antenna.

If your car needs to have services done for the winter, just give Stang Auto Tech a call, or visit us at our auto repair center in Broomfield, CO!

My Check Engine Light is On...Is It Serious?

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 00:42:00 GMT

You're driving your regular route to work and look at your vehicle's dashboard only to see that the dreaded check engine light has turned on. You're secretly hoping that it is an error and that it will turn back off in a few minutes. However, it stays on throughout the day and doesn't seem to be going anywhere.

We know this dreaded feeling and the uncertainty that comes along with figuring out a check engine light. You don't know exactly what is wrong with your vehicle, or how serious it could be. You also may not know if you can continue driving. Let's look at some of the potential causes for the check engine light and what you should do as soon as you see it turn on.

There are many different reasons why your check engine light may come on - some of the problems can be minor and others can be more extensive. Even if you are scared of the possible reason why the light is on, it is critical to bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech as soon as you notice it turn on. The quicker that we are able to identify the issue and repair it, the less damage that will be done, and the less money you'll find yourself spending on repairs.

Here are some of the most common issues that can cause the check engine light to turn on:

Faulty oxygen sensor
Loose or damaged gas cap
Bad catalytic converter
Faulty mass airflow sensor
Bad spark plugs

These are some of the typical reasons for a check engine light that we see here at our shop. However, in order to correctly identify the issue, the professionals at our shop will run computer diagnostics on your vehicle's system to pull the error code. The error code will direct us in the area of the issue and allow us to determine what services or repairs are needed to restore your vehicle.

Now, if you're wondering whether or not the check engine light is serious, the answer is it could be, or it could not be. The only want to really know is to bring your vehicle into our shop at your earliest convenience for an inspection. We will perform the tests necessary to fix the problem and get you back on the road in no time!

Fall Vehicle Maintenance Items to Take Care of Now

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 18:17:00 GMT

The fall season brings changing leaves, chilly weather, and spooky celebrations with Halloween around the corner. With the changing season comes changing weather, and after the warm summer, it can be a relief for some to have a bit of a breeze again. During the summer, many people are out driving more often, which can take a toll on our cars. This is why fall vehicle maintenance is so important when it comes to ensuring that you have a safe and reliable vehicle moving into October.

So, when it comes to fall vehicle maintenance, what is most important when it comes to preparing your vehicle for the weather ahead? Let's look at some of the fall maintenance items that you can take care of right now.

Check your tires

Your vehicle's tires will become increasingly important on wet roads, so make sure that they have good tread in order to make traction with the pavement in any weather. If the tread looks low all around or is unevenly worn, you may be due for a new set.

Test your heater and defroster

The heater is more for comfort, however, your defroster is necessary when it comes to getting visibility when your windshield becomes foggy. Plus, a heater problem can mean and issue with your car's heater core, which can be an issue for your vehicle's engine as well. Make sure to have any potential issues with the heater or defroster inspected by our experts.

Check all exterior lights

With shorter days, you may find yourself driving in the dark more often. Make sure that your headlights, brights, blinkers, and brake lights are all working properly. If the headlights look cloudy, yellow, or foggy, have them restored.

Make sure all fluids are full and clean

Fluids can break down in the summer heat, so be sure that all of your vehicle's important fluids look clean and are topped off. If any fluids look dark or dirty, be sure to bring your vehicle into our shop. You may need a fluid flush, and you'll want to take care of that before the dirty fluid causes any major issues.

Have your brake system inspected

We'll make sure that all of your brake components look good and that you won't find yourself dealing with any brake trouble on the road this fall.

Replace your windshield wipers

You'll need your windshield wipers working at their best during the rainfall that is soon to come, so be sure to check the wipers and replace them if they aren't working as they should or look dry or cracked.

Have your oil changed

If you're due for an oil change, now is a great time to get it done while also getting a fall vehicle inspection performed. You may find yourself traveling during the fall season or driving more, and you don't want to get stuck on the road. We'll ensure that your vehicle will remain reliable throughout the remainder of the season!

These are just some of the fall maintenance items that you can check off your list now while the season is still in its early stages. If you're due for any of the services listed above, don't hesitate to bring your vehicle into our professionals here at Stang Auto Tech. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Is Your Car A/C or Heater Not Working? Here's Why

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 19:16:00 GMT

To maintain comfort while driving, you expect to be able to easily control the internal temperature of your vehicle. The HVAC in your vehicle allows you to initiate air conditioning or heating. If you ever notice a problem with your vehicle’s climate control system, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle into the experts here at Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO. Our ASE certified experts are experienced and can help with any HVAC system problem that you may be experiencing. We will perform diagnostics to determine the exact cause of the issue and repair your HVAC system back to top working condition.

The HVAC system in your vehicle is very complex. Its job is to take air from outside of your vehicle, filter that air, and then either cool or heat it depending on the setting, and then transfers that air to the inside of your vehicle. If a problem with the A/C or heating occurs, you will notice right away that something is wrong.

If you experience any of the following issues, there may be a problem with your vehicle’s HVAC system:

Air is blowing out warm instead of cool
The temperature of air blowing out doesn’t match the setting
No air comes out of vents when heat or AC is turned on
Strange noises when turned on
Unpleasant smells coming through vents

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, there is likely a problem with the HVAC system. If you begin to notice anything, be sure to note down the symptoms and let our experts know when you come into our shop for an inspection. Letting us know what you are experiencing will help our experts accurately diagnose and repair your vehicle.

Many issues with the HVAC system can be caused by a number of different things, including a leak, faulty pressure valves, bad compressor, clogged orifice tube, or low refrigerant. A problem with the heating system can also stem from a bad heater core, which can fail unexpectedly.

If you’re experiencing an issue with your vehicle’s HVAC system, bring your vehicle to the experts at Stang Auto Tech for an inspection today. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online!

What Can Go Wrong with My Vehicle's Engine?

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 20:32:00 GMT

You may have heard about the dreaded engine trouble that can sometimes arise unexpectedly. Maybe you have yet to deal with engine trouble, but understanding what can go wrong and what you can do to prevent it can make a difference when it comes to the longevity of your vehicle and the amount of money you spend on repairs over the years.

The best way to avoid engine trouble is to have your vehicle inspected regularly and to stay up-to-date with your vehicle's scheduled maintenance and services. The better you maintain your engine, the less likely you'll find yourself dealing with major issues down the road.

So, what can actually go wrong with your vehicle's engine? Here are some of the most common engine problems:

Clogged radiator
Leaky valves or worn pistons
Blown head gasket
Clogged or dirty oil chambers and valves
Faulty oil pump
Poor lubrication
Bad fuel pump
Coolant leak
Faulty oxygen sensor
Worn spark plugs
Missing or loose gas cap

These are just some of the top issues that we typically see when it comes to the engine. While most can be avoided with regular care, some parts will wear down over time and need to be replaced, such as the spark plugs. Here at Stang Auto Tech, we help you keep track of your engine maintenance and remind you of when such upcoming services are due.

If you need engine repair or service, bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech or give us a call today!

Why Do I Experience Car Trouble in the Summer?

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 23:04:00 GMT

Many car owners have noticed that during the warm summer heat, they find that they have to deal with car struggles more often. The warm weather, increase in driving, dry air, and hot roads are all contributing factors to car troubles in the summer. As a result, you may find yourself having to deal with car stresses more often in the heat, and may be wondering how you can help avoid these issues as much as possible.

One issue we find is that some cars have trouble starting after the car has been sitting out in the scorching sun. This typically happens because the engine is too hot and won't start. This Is most often associated with the fuel. The engine is way too hot, making it tough for fuel to circulate properly.

Another reason why you may find yourself having trouble starting your vehicle in the summer is due to a dead battery. Battery life can actually be hindered in the heat because battery fluid can corrode and evaporate faster. If it has been a while since you last changed your car battery, this is more than likely the issue.

Tires are another issue of concern in the summertime. This is because the roads are extremely hot and driving more frequently can take a toll on the tires. Ensuring that your tires are in good condition and have the proper tire pressure can help you avoid a tire blowout which is common in the summer.

Engine overheating can also happen during summer drives, which is why proper cooling system maintenance is super important to the overall health and operation of your car. If you see your vehicle's coolant temperature running high, it may be time for an inspection.

The reasons above are just some of the causes of car troubles in the summer, however, there are other potentials when it comes to the sweltering heat. If you're experiencing any issues with your car, we invite you to Stang Auto Tech today for an inspection!

Important Car Maintenance Items for Summer

Thu, 28 May 2020 00:06:00 GMT

While the summer months brings fun days in the sun, road trips, and vacations, it also means much heavier use of our vehicles. The warm weather can actually take a higher toll on our cars due to the high temperatures and frequency of drives.

As we near the summer months, it is important to take care of certain summer vehicle maintenance. This is especially important as well if you're planning any road trips in the near future. Summer vehicle maintenance will ensure that your vehicle not only avoids major issues throughout the summer, but also keeps you and your family safe on the road wherever you decide to travel to.

Tires

Tires are always important to your vehicle's safety, but need to be in good condition especially for long car rides. Check that the tire pressure is correct, because the heat can cause the air in your tires to expand. Also, inspect the tires for an excessive wear. If you do notice excessive wear, you'll want to bring your vehicle into our shop so that we can inspect it and determine if new tires are needed and what caused the excessive wear in the first place.

Battery

Car batteries are actually more susceptible to heat and are a leading cause of breakdowns during the summer. This is because battery fluid can evaporate during the warm temperatures and cause your battery to lose its "juice". If you bring your vehicle into Stang Auto Tech, we can perform a battery test and inspection to see if your battery will last throughout the summer heat.

A/C System

Air conditioning is another aspect of your vehicle that should be working at its best whether you're taking your vehicle for a day trip or a cross country road trip. In the summer heat, driving without working A/C can be unbearable. We suggest checking your air conditioner, and if you suspect any issue, getting your vehicle into the experts here at Stang Auto Tech for an A/C recharge or repair.

Fluids

The various fluids inside of our vehicles are also at risk for getting low in the summer temperatures. All of your vehicles vital fluids should be inspected, topped off, or replaced if needed in order to maintain properly working systems that are necessary in the heat, such as your vehicle's cooling system.

There are just some of the most important wats to stay on top of your vehicle's summer maintenance. If you need a pre-road trip vehicle inspection or need assistance with summer vehicle maintenance in Broomfield CO, bring your vehicle into the professionals here at Stang Auto Tech today!

What is Your Tire Wear Telling You?

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 22:30:00 GMT

Tire wear can be caused by a number of different things, including bad wheel alignment, overinflation, underinflation, bad suspension parts, not rotating your tires, and more. Depending on what is causing the tire wear, you may notice that the wear has a specific pattern or is in a certain spot. This will tell you what might be causing the tire wear and what you need to have fixed.

Your vehicle's tires are vital to your car's overall safety, so ensuring that they are in good condition is important. As soon as you notice excessive tire wear, we recommend getting your vehicle into our Broomfield auto repair shop for an inspection.

Let's take a look at some of the common wear patterns and what they suggest:

Toe or Chamber Wear

T his type of tire wear occurs on the outer or inner edge of your tire. If you notice that one edge of your tire is more worn down than the other edge, this can indicate bad alignment.

Center Wear

If you notice that the middle part of your tires is more worn down than the outer edges, you're most likely driving with overinflated tires. Your tire pressure should always be set properly according to manufacturer recommendations.

Outer Edge Wear

If both of the outer edges of your tires are worn down while the middle looks intact, your tire is likely underinflated and needs additional air.

Cupping Wear

Cupping wear, also known as scalloping, look like diagonal lines of wear. This is an indication of a serious suspension issue.

Patchy Wear

Wear that looks patchy and all over the place is cause by out of balance tires. Tires should be regularly balanced by a mechanic to ensure that every tire is handling the same amount of weight.

While these indicators can help you understand the issue your vehicle may have, it is still important to have an inspection performed as soon as you suspect an issue. When you need car maintenance in Broomfield, CO, bring your vehicle into the experts here at Stang Auto Tech today!

We Are Open - Please Read Our COVID-19 Procedures for Service

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Here at Stang Auto Tech, we understand the growing uncertainty as our country and state experience rapid COVID-19 spreading. We understand how important you and your family's health is, just as how important the health of our family members and staff is. We want to do our part in preventing the further spread of COVID-19 while also being there for you during this tough time when you need auto repair and services.

In order to abide by CDC guidelines and to keep our community safe, we have implemented temporary guidelines to protect the health of our customers and our staff and to prevent the virus from spreading. Rest assured, we are still open for business and can assist with any auto repairs, services, or concerns you may have.

Our new procedures for COVID-19 are as follows:

We are taking appointments by call, text, email, or through our online appointment form .
We will follow up with you to confirm the date, time and services.
Use our Early Bird / Night Owl Service when dropping off your vehicle:
During normal work hours park your vehicle on the west side of the building.
When the gate is closed park your vehicle on the street in front of the shop.
Fill out an envelope in the Early Bird / Night Owl drop box on the West side of our drive.
Make sure to include your contact information and how to reach you.
Document any services or concerns that we have not already discussed for this visit.
Sign your name, put your keys in the envelope, and place it in the secure drop box.
We will contact you with any questions, the results of any testing, and when your vehicle is complete.
After we have completed your vehicle:
We will make payment arrangements over the phone.
Disinfected your vehicle and place in front for pickup.

Some additional important notices:

We are currently unable to schedule waiting customers or shuttle service.
Only Team Members are allowed in the building at this time.
We are offering a courtesy valet service, when necessary, as resources allow.

These procedures are specifically put into place to protect your health, the health of our staff members, and the health of all of our family members that we may come in contact with. We know these are uncertain times, together we will get through this. Call us with any questions today!

What is a Transmission Fluid Service?

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 19:28:00 GMT

It's no secret how important your vehicle's transmission is to the overall operation of your car. This is why it is so important to properly maintain your vehicle's transmission and stay on top of the services it needs to work with efficiency. If you've been a vehicle owner for at least 5 years, you've probably heard of a transmission fluid service or had one performed. However, do you know what it actually does and how important it is? Lets take a look at what a transmission fluid service consists of and why it is important to the overall operated of your car.

Did you know that according to the Automotive Transmission Rebuilders Association that over 90% of automatic transmission failures are due to overheating? It's true, and your transmission fluid is a huge part of keeping your transmission running at an optimal temperature.

Transmission fluid has many different jobs, including (most importantly) lubricating and cooling your transmission's internal parts. It also helps to keep these parts clean and ensure that your gears can switch easily without metal to metal contact. As with most vehicle fluids, the transmission fluid will become contaminated over time with dirt and grime, and will loose its efficiency. This is why a transmission fluid flush will be necessary.

A transmission fluid flush will drain out the current transmission fluid, install a new gasket pan and filter, add in new fluid, and inspect for leaks. In terms of how often you should have this service completed, the best rule of thumb is every 40,000 miles or so. However, your vehicle's factory recommendations will outline the proper interval that is right for your vehicle year, make and model.

A transmission fluid flush can mean the different between a working transmission and transmission failure. Transmission repairs or replacements can be extremely costly, and we want to help you avoid this repair if possible with good vehicle maintenance. When you need transmission fluid services, give us a call here at Stang Auto Tech today!

What are the Symptoms of a Failing Oxygen Sensor?

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 18:13:00 GMT

The oxygen sensor in your vehicle has the job of measuring oxygen levels in the exhaust gases that are emitted from the engine. This needs to be monitored because your car needs to run on a specific air to fuel ratio. It also helps ensure that the timing of the engine and fuel injection process is correct. An oxygen sensor failure isn't uncommon, and can happen with aging vehicles. It may be the reason that your vehicle won't pass emissions testing. When it does fail, it has a negative impact on the environment and your overall engine performance.

The following are some the symptoms that can indicate a failing oxygen sensor:

Check engine light is on
Poor fuel efficiency
Engine runs rough
Smell of rotten eggs
Engine idles and misfires

If you do happen to notice any of the signs above, don't hesitate to give us a call here at Stang Auto Tech. Oxygen sensors typically need to be replaced between every 60,000 miles and 90,000 miles. It may also need to be replaced if it is the cause of a failed emissions test. Our professionals will determine if your vehicle needs an oxygen sensor replacement and ensure that we restore your vehicle back to its best!

How to Build a Winter Car Emergency Kit

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 18:10:00 GMT

Driving in the snow and severe winter weather conditions can be extremely stressful. Not only does it extend your driving time, but it can put your safety at risk. Before you hit the road in snow or icy weather, it is important to have a winter car emergency kit on hand that can be a lifesaver in times of breakdowns or other car troubles.

Building a winter car emergency kit can be stressful if you don't know where to start. We want to help by giving you some ideas for what to pack and where you can find many of these items. Winter weather has already started, so getting these emergency items now will be a huge help over the next couple of months.

Here are some items to have handy in your winter weather emergency kit:

Spare tire, jack, wrench
Flares
Blankets
Extra jackets and warm clothing
Tire chains
Cell phone charger
Emergency numbers
Jumper cables
Ice scraper

The items listed above are just a guideline to use when building your winter emergency kit. Items that are auto related can be purchased at your local auto parts store. Before you head out during any type of winter weather, we suggest having your vehicle inspected here at Stang Auto Tech to ensure that your vehicle is in top working condition to stay reliable during the colder weather. Happy New Year and drive safe!

Winter Vehicle Maintenance

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 22:28:00 GMT

Happy Holidays from all of us here at Stang Auto Tech! During the winter time, the weather gets much more harsh and it tends to take a toll on our vehicles. The best way to have a reliable car through the season and ensure your safety on the road is by staying on top of your car's winter vehicle maintenance.

Winter car maintenance is very important when it comes to the overall condition of your vehicle. Especially with the snow, driving can be much more dangerous and risky if your vehicle is in bad shape. We recommend that your vehicle is inspected here at Stang Auto Tech before the winter weather gets rough so that you can be free from car troubles during the next winter months.

Important winter car maintenance items include:

Inspect tire pressure, tread, and condition
Swap for snow tires if needed, or carry tire chains in your car
Replace windshield wipers and keep wiper fluid full
Make sure that your battery is charged and replace it if its over 3-5 years old
Check all fluids to make sure they are topped off and clean, and verify that there are no leaks

As soon as you're due for a winter car inspection, don't hesitate to stop by Stang Auto Tech. We will make sure that your vehicle is safe for winter and keep your car running in top condition.

Is it Safe to Let A Friend Borrow Your Car?

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 19:48:00 GMT

We've all been there before - a friend of yours ask politely, can I borrow your car? It may just be for an hour or maybe a day, but doing so will be a great help to your friend. Do you say yes, or no? We know that it can be difficult to bring yourself to say no, especially when your friend is in need. But is it ultimately safe to let a friend borrow your vehicle?

While you may want to be there for your friend, there are some things you should think about before saying yes. Of course you don't want to think about the worse case scenario, which would be that your friend gets in an accident while borrowing your car. However, things happen and this is always a possibility. This is why you should always give your insurance company a call before saying yes. They will advise you on whether or not you would be liable for damage if your friend gets in an accident.

Another thing to make sure of is that your friend is insured themselves. It would be a good idea to have them contact their insurance to verify that their insurance would cover an accident if they were driving your car. Insurance policies will differ and the last thing you want is for your insurance to increase off of an accident that didn't even involve you. Not to mention the stress that this may bring having to get your vehicle repaired and everything else that comes along with an accident.

Although we know it can be hard to say no to a friend asking to borrow your car, be sure to be aware of all of the possibilities and understand how you will be insured. It will help you make a better decision and be able to say no to a friend kindly. For all of your vehicle's repair or service needs, give us a call here at Stang Auto Tech.

How to Remove Rust from your Vehicle

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 20:14:00 GMT

If you own an older vehicle or a vehicle that has some paint removed in areas, you may have noticed that rust has started to appear. Rust happens when oxygen gets to metal, but can happen even fast when water is thrown in the mix. If you have any metal areas of your vehicle that are exposed, rust will start to appear over time.

Rust can also happen underneath your vehicle and under the paint - if you notice a bubble underneath your car paint, this is an indicator that rust is happening underneath the car paint. Surface rust can also appear on other metal items of your car like door handles, log nuts, and more.

Correcting rust is more of an intermediate level job, but anyone can learn. It's best to correct surface rust as soon as you see it and not let it get worse over time.

Items you will need include:

Sandpaper
Paint Primer
Paint Brush
Paint that matches the area you are correctly
Clear Coat Paint
Buffer

The process goes like this: begin by using the sandpaper to cut through the paint and corrosion until clean, bright metal is visible. Next, apply primer, and make sure it is dry before the next step. This will be followed by car color paint, and then a clear coat once the paint is dry. We recommend using a buffer to blend out the finish once everything is dry and set to make your car look seamless.

Luckily, there are ways that you can prevent rust from occuring in the first place. Wash your car regularly and don't miss out on the littel details like the tire lug nuts and door handles. Also, don't forget the underside of your car!

Car Issues That Can Land You A Ticket

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 00:58:00 GMT

When it comes to your vehicle, making sure that you are on top of your vehicle's maintenance and service needs isn't always just for your safety and the integrity of your vehicle. Driving with mechanical car problems can actually land you a ticket, and probably cost you just as much as it would have to get the issue fixed, if not more.

While most of us understand the types of driving violations that can get us in trouble, such as making an illegal U-Turn, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, and more, not everyone is aware of mechanic problems that can also land us a ticket on the road.

Here are some mechanic problems that can land you a ticket if they aren't fixed:

A broken tail light, headlight, or blinker
Having illegal window tinting
Missing or expired license plate
Driving with an expired registration sticker
Driving with a cracked windshield (depending on local laws and severity)
Using high beams improperly
Hazardous loading of items in your vehicle

If you suspect an equipment issue with your vehicle that could land you a ticket, be sure to give the experts a call here at Stang Auto Tech today. We will make sure that your vehicle is safe and legal on the road!

Tips for Your Next Auto Mechanic Visit

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 18:33:00 GMT

We know that it can be stressful to have to visit the auto repair shop for any reason. It takes time from your day and sometimes there is uncertainty about how long the visit will take and how much the repairs will end up costing you. In order to be as informed and prepared as possible, here are some helpful tips to use when planning your visit to the mechanic.

Take note of your vehicle's symptoms and how your vehicle drives. If you're going into the shop for an inspection because you suspect an issue, going in with a couple of symptoms that you have been experiencing can help the mechanic better understand the problem and pinpoint the issue.
Don't be afraid to ask up front for an estimate before you agree to have any work done. At the end of the day, it is your vehicle, and you can choose what is performed on it. The mechanic will likely tell you the severity of the problem and whether or not the repairs need to be completed right away or can wait.
Make sure to ask lots of questions. If you want to know more information about a certain condition or repair, don't be afraid to ask! Mechanics enjoy their job and want to share their knowledge with customers as much as possible. The more informed you are about your vehicle, the better.
Bring all warranty information along with you if you plan to use any type of warranty on your repair, or need to make sure that a repair will qualify under your warranty.
Ask ahead of time how long the repair will take once agreed upon. Most shops offer a free shuttle service, so if the repair will take hours and you have somewhere to be, you'll most likely be able to get a ride and get on with your day.
Find an auto repair shop that you can actually trust. The good ones will be apparent, and if you ever visit a shop that you don't get a good vibe from, you have the right to deny all work and leave.

We hope that these tips will be helpful for your next visit to the auto repair shop. If you're looking for honest and trustworthy repairs in the area, don't hesitate to give the professionals a call here at Stang Auto Tech today.

Solutions to Stressful Driving Situations

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 20:33:00 GMT

We know that it can be stressful on the road, especially when you are put into certain situations that can cause anxiety and uncertainty. It is important that we all stay calm and collected while driving to ensure our own safety and the safety of other cars around us. If you ever find yourself stressed out, try to remember the following tips for common stressful situations on the road:

Road Construction - It can be scary when a lane is closed and lots of vehicles are trying to merge out of the way. Road construction can also mean stopped cars along the side of the road and workers walking about. Try to stay calm and understand that the construction can’t be avoided, and that everyone is trying to get to their destination safely.

Backseat Drivers - There’s always that one friend, family member, or spouse that gives advice where it isn’t warranted. If you are unsure about what to do in this situation, we recommend changing the subject or ignoring your backseat drivers advice. You are in control of your vehicle, and as long as you are practicing safe driving, you’ve got this.

You’re Lost - We’ve all been there - lost on the road and aren’t sure what to do. Whether you’ve missed an exit or forgot exactly how to get to your destination, the best thing to do is to find a safe place to pull over and figure out how to get where you are going. A good way to avoid this is to set your smartphone or GPS to the destination beforehand.

Your Phone is Ringing - If you find yourself stressing out because your phone is ringing or receiving messages and you know you shouldn’t look at your phone while driving, don’t stress. If you really need to look at your phone, find a safe street to park on or a public parking lot to pull into. Never check your phone while driving, no matter how important you think the call or text may be.

We hope the advice above will help you stay calm in stressful situations on the road.

Signs It’s Time for New Brake Pads

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 20:25:00 GMT

Your vehicle’s brakes should always be in top working condition. If you ever notice a problem with your brakes, an inspection is recommended as soon as you can to avoid brake failure. One component of your vehicle’s brake system is the brake pads, which have the important job of helping the calipers make contact with the rotors, and therefore stopping or slowing down your vehicle.

The brake pads will eventually wear down over time due to friction, which is why they need to be replaced at certain intervals. If your vehicle’s brake pads need to be replaced, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms

A squealing or screeching noise can indicate that the brake pads need to be replaced. This can signify that there is metal to metal contact happening with the brakes.

A clicking noise can also mean that your brake pads need to be inspected. A clicking noise while braking is usually an indication that the brake pads are loose.
If you notice a lack in performance, or that it takes longer for your car to come to a stop than it has before, then your brake pads may be worn out.
If you notice that your vehicle nose dives to one side while braking, this can indicate uneven wear on your brake pads.
The brake pedal vibration while braking can also indicate a glazing problem with the brake pads that can happen when the binding resin gets onto the rotors

As soon as you notice any of the signs listed above, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle into our shop for an inspection. We will be happy to check it out and determine if new brake pads are needed, or if there is another issue at play.