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4 Signs Your Car Thermostat May Need Replacement

The thermostat of your car works with the radiator and coolant to help keep your engine at an optimal temperature. When the thermostat is working properly, it works as part of the radiator system flow. The thermostat allows hot coolant to enter the radiator to prevent the engine from overheating. So if you’re experiencing overheating issues, your thermostat may be to blame. Here are four signs that it may need to be replaced.

1. High Temperature

One of the first signs that your thermostat may need replacement is how high the temperature inside gets. It isn’t unheard of for a car to reach a high temperature and possibly become overheated. If you have the car serviced, or if you refill your coolant on your own, this usually helps or fixes the overheating issue. The problem is when the temperature crawls back up quickly and stays high regardless of what you do.

Though high temperatures may indicate a small leak in the coolant tank, they can also be a sign that the thermostat is not working properly. One way to make sure the issue is with the thermostat is to look for quick spikes in the temperature. For example, if you start the car and the engine temperature is cool but spikes very high within a few short minutes, then it may be the thermostat.

2. Cold Engine

There is a misconception that if your car thermostat has gone bad, then your engine is constantly running hot. Though a hot engine is one of the signs that something may be wrong, your engine could also start running cold. A cold engine is also caused by a bad thermostat and can affect the operation of your car.

Keep in mind that the main function of the thermostat is to allow hot coolant to move through to the radiator. The thermostat helps the coolant cool down so the engine will not overheat. If the thermostat remains open, however, the coolant will continually move through regardless of whether it is hot or not. This will cause a cold engine, which can cause mechanical issues with the car.

3. Temperature Gauge Issues

You can easily access the thermostat to check the temperature gauge yourself, which can be the quickest way to decide whether or not your thermostat needs to be replaced. You will need a set of needle-nose pliers to remove the thermostat.

Once you remove it, clean the thermostat off and place it in a bowl of hot water, but make sure you check the temperature of the hot water before placing the thermostat inside the bowl. Place the thermostat into the water and watch the temperature gauge. If the thermostat gauge doesn’t go up, spikes, or goes up far beyond the actual temperature of the water, then your thermostat likely needs to be replaced.

4. Coolant Level Issues

If you start noticing issues with the thermostat check the coolant levels. When you put the coolant into the coolant tank, note where the level of the coolant falls. There should be a fill line on the side of the coolant tank or some way for you to measure the levels. Take note when you refill the coolant and what level it is at after the refill.

If the coolant levels drastically change, then your thermostat may not be working properly. You should see a gradual decrease. If the tank is completely empty, then you could have a leak and a thermostat issue. If you see no change at all, your thermostat may be stuck in a closed position.

If you think your car’s thermostat isn’t working properly, visit us at White’s Automotive Center. We can run a full diagnostic to determine where the issues are with your car and what needs to be repaired or replaced, including the thermostat.

Quick Vehicle Inspections That Can Help Prevent Roadside Emergencies

While distracted driving, cell phone usage, and driving under the influence of an illegal substance continue to be implicated in a large percentage of serious traffic accidents each year, the condition of the car may also play a corresponding role. This is because worn tires, faulty brakes, and many other common vehicle maintenance issues can prevent drivers from keeping control of their cars and avoiding crashes.

Additionally, vehicles that have not been properly maintained may stall with no warning, leaving drivers in potentially perilous situations or at risk of being struck by other vehicles. A good way for drivers to reduce the risk of their vehicle being involved in a crash or leaving them stranded alongside the highway is for drivers to become proficient in checking for and recognizing potential condition issues before a serious problem develops.

Simple System Checks to Perform Each Month

A good way for drivers to become more familiar with their vehicle and better able to spot problems when they occur is to learn to do a simple visual inspection each month. This maintenance check-up should include visual examinations of:

• The drive belts and hoses. Ensure there are no signs of cracking, leaks or splits that could cause them to fail when the engine is being operated.
• The windshield wiper fluid tank. Make sure to refill as necessary so that it will be able to keep the windshield clean and clear while driving.
• The windshield wipers. Check for cracking or damage that could make these ineffective at clearing the windshield
• The fluid levels. Check oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
• The tire pressure. Ensure that all pressures are within the safe driving ranges listed on both the sidewalls of the tires and in the owner’s manual.
• All lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and headlights. Ensure that all are operating correctly.

While it can seem redundant to check fluid levels on newer cars equipped with dashboard warning lights, these lights can fail without the driver noticing. Learn how to manually check each fluid type and refill them as necessary to help make your vehicle last longer and make driving safer.

Vehicle Check to Perform Before Starting the Car Each Day

In addition to doing a more comprehensive monthly assessment, spend a few seconds each day checking the condition of your vehicle to help prevent unpleasant surprises while driving. To do this, start by taking a quick walk around the vehicle each day before driving to check for visual indicators of potential issues.

As you walk around the car, bend and look underneath the engine and drive train areas of the car to check for puddles of liquid or freshly discolored areas that may indicate a fluid leak. If you notice a puddle of fluid, pay attention to the color of the fluid to help determine where the leak originated.

In most car models, puddles of dark brown fluid will likely be motor oil, while liquids that look pink, green, or red in color will likely be coolant or transmission fluid. Clear or light brown fluids usually originate from leaks in the power steering or braking system.

Next, be sure to look closely at the visible portions of the tread pattern and sidewalls of each tire for any signs of wear or damage that could mean a blowout is imminent. If the tires appear to be low, take time to check the pressure and refill them as necessary in order to help prevent blowouts and flat tires while driving.

If any of the tire’s tread appears to be unevenly worn, cupped, or flat in spots, the car may have serious steering, braking, or drive train issues that could make it unsafe to drive.

If you see signs of unusual tire wear, fluid leaks, or other condition concerns, get them immediately checked by a qualified care car specialist, like the certified professionals at White’s Automotive Center in Columbus.

5 Tips to Help Focus on Your Transmission

Owning a vehicle can be overwhelming at times. From the initial purchase and paying for gas and insurance to the cost of maintenance, it is easy to see the challenges of vehicle ownership. But if you are like most people, you need a reliable mode of transportation, so it’s imperative you ensure your car, truck, or SUV is in proper working condition.

Unfortunately, issues with cars do arise. Thankfully, some parts don’t cost a large expense to replace compared to other aspects of your vehicle. But whether you choose to repair or replace it, the transmission will, unfortunately, be a large expense that you most likely do not have in your budget. Thankfully, you can extend the life of your transmission with the help of this guide and professionals.

Focus on the Fluid

Most problems that affect your transmission stem from the fluid. Without a sufficient level of clean fluid, you will most likely begin feeling your transmission slipping.

In addition, dirty fluid that remains in the transmission will also cause dirt and sediment to build up over time. This build-up will increase the risk of corrosion, which can lead to complete failures that will require a full transmission replacement.

If you want your transmission to run effectively, it’s smart to check your fluids regularly. If levels are low, the additional fluid should be added. If the fluid is dark in color — appearing dark brown, gray, or black — it is time to flush out the reservoir and add new fluid.

An unappealing, burnt-smelling odor is also a sign that your transmission fluid should be flushed and replaced.

Focus on Flushing

It is essential to flush your transmission fluid if it looks dark and smells foul. However, you should also consult your vehicle’s manufacturer to determine when new fluid is recommended.

If you do not see or smell issues and are not noticing shifting issues, you may not need to flush the fluid until your vehicle reaches 50,000 or 100,000 miles.
Your automotive specialist will ensure the old fluid is removed during the flushing process. This treatment also removes sediments and residue inside the transmission before adding new fluid. Fresh oil and a new filter may also be added during a traditional transmission flush.

Focus on Cooling

Heat can harm your transmission, so it is important to maintain the engine’s ability to cool, as well.

If your engine’s radiator is unable to cool down your vehicle after operation, you may notice issues when accelerating and shifting.

Check coolant levels regularly to make sure your radiator is working properly. Low levels of coolant may signal underlying issues such as overheating or a leak that needs to be addressed immediately.

Focus on Symptoms

Even with proper maintenance, your transmission may experience stress. If you can identify the symptoms that your transmission is in distress, you can correct problems before they result in a complete failure.

Here are a few signs that your transmission needs to be evaluated by a professional:

• Hard shifting
• Skipping or slipping of gears
• Hard pops when the vehicle is running
• Loud noises when driving/shifting gears

If you are noticing one or more of the above signs, schedule a consultation with your automotive technician immediately. Early diagnostics and efficient repairs can save your transmission.

Focus on Driving

While surprising to learn, aggressive driving can lead to transmission problems. For example, accelerating and braking hard and fast will cause excessive friction on your transmission. This friction will increase the risk of overheating. Constantly driving in an aggressive manner will place too much stress on your transmission, so repairs and replacements may be necessary.

Pay attention to how you are driving. Be sure to drive at the speed limit, starting off slowly from a stop instead of hitting the gas pedal hard to make the car go. Use slow and easy braking motions when slowing down and stopping, as well.

Ask White’s Automotive Center to focus on your transmission to extend its lifespan and protect your vehicle’s operation.

5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Fuel Pump

Like its name would suggest, your engine’s fuel pump works to move fuel from the gas tank to the engine. This makes it an integral part of the operation of your vehicle, and any sort of damage or mechanical malfunction in the pump can have a huge effect on your car.

Understanding the warning signs associated with a failing fuel pump can help you notice the problem early. Once you notice these symptoms of a flawed fuel pump, ask a mechanic to inspect and replace this car component before it fails completely or causes more serious issues under the hood.

1. Engine Stuttering

One of the clearest indications that your vehicle’s fuel pump isn’t working as it should is engine jolts and stutters while you drive at a steady speed.

This stuttering occurs when the pump struggles to provide an adequate amount of fuel to your engine, causing the engine to have difficulty maintaining a certain speed. This fuel pump problem is extremely dangerous because it affects the amount of control that you have over your vehicle. Take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible.

2. Engine Surges

On the opposite end of the spectrum, you may also experience sudden surges of speed while driving if your fuel pump supplies too much fuel to the engine. Like the problem discussed in the previous section, unexpected engine revving can be dangerous. A fuel pump that puts out too much fuel can even flood your engine and cause your vehicle to stall out while on the road.

Keep in mind that it is possible for your engine to experience both engine sputtering and surging with a bad fuel pump.

3. Reduced Fuel Efficiency

An improperly functioning fuel pump can have a severe effect on your vehicle’s overall fuel efficiency. Since inadequate or excessive amounts of fuel are being fed to the engine, it will not operate at peak efficiency.

Over time, your engine will burn more fuel than it needs to as it tries to operate the way it’s designed to run. If you notice a sudden decrease in your vehicle’s mileage with little to no change in your driving habits, the fuel pump could be to blame.

Fixing this problem early is a good idea because the costs of more frequent gas tank fill-ups will quickly outpace the cost of replacing or repairing a damaged fuel pump.

4. High-Pitched Noises

Another good indication that there is something wrong with your engine’s fuel pump is a high-pitched whine or squealing coming from the engine while you are driving.

This noise likely indicates excessive wear to components within the fuel pump. These screeches will typically precede a more serious mechanical failure, so act now to have an expert assess your vehicle. Having a mechanic replace your fuel pump can prevent further issues from happening down the road.

5. Engine Won’t Start

Finally, perhaps the clearest warning sign that your fuel pump is no longer working properly is that you have issues starting your engine. A damaged fuel pump that cannot move enough fuel to the engine will result in an engine that will have to be cranked excessively before it starts.

If your fuel pump has failed, your engine will not start at all, and you’ll be left stranded. However, there are a wide range of reasons why a car may not start, so your fuel pump is probably to blame only if you noticed any of the above issues with your vehicle before it completely failed to start.

For any questions that you may have about your vehicle’s fuel pump, feel free to contact White’s Automotive Center. Our team of highly trained mechanics will be more than happy to address any concerns that you may have about your fuel pump or any other automotive issues you may be experiencing.

Three Signs Your Car Has a Valve Problem

You rarely hear about valve problems in cars nowadays because modern overhead camshaft engines have fewer components to break down and cause problems. In the past, several components, such as non-hydraulic lifters, push-rods, springs, and the valves themselves, all could go bad.

You may have heard the term “getting a valve job” because older cars frequently needed their valves adjusted. If you have an older car, you may still have some of these problems, but modern cars’ valve trains are virtually trouble-free.

Because these problems are so rare in modern cars, many people don’t recognize the symptoms of valve trouble right away. Here are some of the signs that you need to have your valve train examined.

Ticking or Popping Noises

Ticking or popping noises are the most common types of noises you will hear when you’re having trouble with your valves.

Many times, you will hear this ticking before you notice other problems. This noise gets louder and faster as the engine is accelerated. It usually means that some of the valve train components are either worn or out of alignment, or that your engine is not getting enough lubrication overall.

Most cars have hydraulic lifters, and these lifters need constant lubrication and pressure kept at a precise level. If the pressure is a little bit off, it increases play or excessive movement in the valve train.

Blue Smoke From the Tailpipe

Blue smoke is a classic sign of overall engine trouble and should never be ignored. Though blue smoke is not specifically a result of valve problems, it is one of the most common indications, especially when combined with ticking and popping noises.

When valve guides and seals wear, it allows oil to pass through to the combustion chamber and be burned along with the fuel. You will also notice that your oil levels are consistently dropping, or you need to add oil often, and you’ve ruled out any leaks.

Generally, the amount of blue smoke you see with valve guide and seal failure is fairly small and barely noticeable. If you are spewing out a large amount of smoke, then you may have more serious problems such as worn or damaged piston rings. It’s best to have a professional mechanic check out your engine when you have this issue.

Engine Power Loss

Another sign that you have valve problems is that you frequently notice a reduction in engine power and performance. Valves are designed to fit into their seats perfectly and allow for a very little leeway. If your valve guides and seals are leaking, oil can accumulate on the top of the valve and cause it to lose its seat or create a gap. This could cause compression issues, which lead to poor combustion and power loss.

Burnt valves are another problem that contributes to power issues. When a valve is burned, it can lose material and even have large holes which leak out gases and reduce compression. Many things can cause burnt valves, but one of the most common reasons is ignoring leaking seals and guides, or failing to fix other compression problems. Combine those problems with a cooling system or EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) issue, and you are extremely likely to burn the valves.

Valve problems are something you should not ignore because they can turn into even more serious and expensive problems down the road. However, they are easy to prevent, or at least delay, with proper engine maintenance. Have your oil changed regularly, and fix any other engine problems promptly.

Because these signs can also be a warning that something more serious is happening, you should have a professional examine the engine. White’s Automotive Center has ASE-certified technicians who are well-versed in all types of automotive repair and can help determine the exact cause and solution to the problem.