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5 Reasons You May Need The Best BMW Emissions Service
If your BMW check engine light suddenly turns on, it may indicate that you need the best BMW emissions service. Many BMW car owners have no idea what this light means. There are many possible reasons for check engine light and issues can be related to emission problems. It’s challenging to detect the problem on your own, so you need to get in touch with BMW mechanics as soon as possible.
Pollution from automobiles is a significant cause of health problems like asthma. We all benefit from clean air, and as responsible BMW owners, we all have a part to play in keeping our air clean for this generation and the next. If you can’t afford a hybrid or electric car, there are ways to lessen the amount of toxic fumes generated by your BMW. Addressing a check engine light problem related to emissions is a responsibility we should take seriously.
Signs You Need the Best BMW Emissions Service
Your car’s emission control system limits the number of harmful gases your BMW releases into the environment. Car components that emit gases are your fuel tank, crankcase, and exhaust. Like all mechanical parts in your BMW, your emission control system can encounter problems and may need repair. A BMW auto repair expert can helps you diagnose the problem and repair the issue. Here are signs that you need a BMW repair service for your emission system problems.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
When your check engine light turns on, it may mean that there is a fault in your BMW’s emission system. An oxygen sensor monitors your exhaust for unburned oxygen. This is useful for monitoring your engine efficiency and if you have the right fuel to air ratio.
If there is a problem with your oxygen sensor, it won’t provide the correct data to your computer system. Your computer sends an incorrect code that turns on your BMW check engine light.
BMW mechanics can replace your sensors and deal with your check engine light issue. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible because a delay can damage your catalytic converter and cost more to repair.
Damaged Catalytic Converter
Your BMW’s catalytic converter helps reduce emissions as it converts carbon monoxide and other harmful gases into less harmful emissions. This is essential for human health because we don’t breathe in toxic gases when using your car.
If your catalytic converter starts to fail, your fuel consumption will also be affected, and your car won’t pass an emissions test. If your catalytic converter fails, you need to replace the entire converter. Go to your BMW repair service expert for a diagnosis and replacement when needed.
Loose Gas Cap
Did you know that a small issue like a loose gas cap can turn on your BMW check engine light? Your gas cap is necessary because it seals your fuel system. If your cap is loose, it can mess up the pressure in your fuel system. This will result in poor mileage and increased emissions from your vehicle.
If you notice your yellow check engine light turned on, it may indicate a loose gas cap. You can tighten the gas cap yourself. This may resolve the problem, and your check engine light will turn off. On the other hand, if your gas cap is damaged or the light is still turned on after gas cap tightening, there may be deeper issues that you need checking by a BMW auto repair technician.
Change Spark Plugs
Spark plugs wear out over time, so you need to replace them when they go bad. Bad spark plugs result in hard starting, poor acceleration, lower gas mileage, engine misfires, and rough idling. If your BMW has faulty spark plugs, you need to get in touch with a BMW mechanic to replace them as soon as possible. You can’t wait much longer before you fix this problem because worse issues may arise resulting in major repair expenses.
Mass Airflow Sensor
Your airflow sensor is a vital part of your vehicle as it directs the computer system to add the right amount of fuel based on the amount of air coming into the engine. There is a specific ratio that needs to be followed, and these sensors determine how much to add.
When your mass airflow sensor starts to fail, you need to go to your BMW Repair Service shop to replace the sensors. You can continue driving with this issue, but you may experience frequent stalling, and more problems may arise.
Virginia Auto Service: Best BMW Emissions Service in Phoenix, AZ
It is vital to get the best BMW emissions service if your check engine light turns on. Guesswork is not ideal because you don’t know if you have a major or minor problem in your car. If you tighten your gas cap and the problem is solved, then you can continue driving your vehicle. If the light remains, you may have something serious, don’t wait for your car to breakdown in the middle of the road before you call for repairs.
At Virginia Auto Service, our BMW mechanics can diagnose and repair your check engine light issues at once. Here are the top reasons you should choose us for your BMW emissions service in Phoenix, AZ.
- We are conveniently located in Central Phoenix, which is a plus for major employers and neighborhoods.
- We can give a second opinion on an estimate from another auto repair shop
- We offer free transportation to or from work or anywhere in downtown Phonenix using “Virgie,” our shuttle service.
- You can book an appointment easily through email or phone.
Your emission control system is regulated by a number of local agencies in America and on the federal level by the Environmental Protection Agency. Our Best BMW Emissions Service can help you lower emissions and pass emission testing.
If you suspect any problems with your emission control system, give us a call or send us an email today.
Changing Oil Filter – The Best Time
A Clogged Oil Filter is an indication that it’s time to change your oil filter. Regular oil changes are not only a good idea, it should also be a vital part of routine car maintenance.
The purpose of engine oil is to lubricate your engine’s internal components, keeping it cool. It protects moving parts from grinding against one another. Extreme heat and internal parts rubbing against each other can lead to premature engine wear and damage.
Without frequent oil changes, dirt and sludge can build up in your engine. There is only so much your oil filter can do. Dirty oil leads to severe engine damage and costly engine replacement.
Changing your oil filter is always a part of a regular oil change. An oil change is an inexpensive and simple procedure that you can perform on your own as long as you have the right tools.
Do You Have A Clogged Oil Filter?
Driving with a clogged oil filter is not a good idea. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to have your oil filter replaced.
When you notice poor engine performance, a clogged filter can be one of the reasons why. An engine that sputters is another sign that shouldn’t be ignored. If the sputtering increases the faster you go, you should visit your auto technician for a check-up.
If your engine is not getting enough oil to moving parts, you may hear audible metallic noise. This indicates metal parts grinding against one another. Stop your car to the side of the road and ask for roadside assistance. Driving in this condition can mean the end of your engine’s life.
Low oil pressure and a dirty exhaust are also symptoms of a clogged oil filter. If your oil pressure gauge arrow points downward while driving, you need to pull over and ask for a tow from your auto shop.
Brown or black smoke coming out of your exhaust means that your vehicle is burning oil. The smell of oil burning is strong, and one of the causes is usually a clogged filter.
What Does The Oil Filter Do?
Oil filters remove contaminants from your auto engine oil to help keep your oil clean longer.
Clean motor oil is essential for engine protection and performance. Unfiltered oil may contain tiny and hard particles that can cause engine wear and damage to the bearing surfaces of your engine.
Picking the right oil filter for your vehicle is essential for the best results. Most oil filters may look alike, but small differences in threads and gasket size can spell the difference between good and bad performance.
The wrong filter may cause an oil leak or may fall off while driving. No one wants this to happen to their engine.
When Should I Change My Oil Filter?
Oil filters are replaced every time you have an oil change. The frequency may depend on your owner’s manual, which usually recommends oil changes every 5,000, 10,000, or 15,000 miles.
Oil filters act as your first line of defense against harmful contaminants. Over time these contaminants will build up on your filter, and you must not wait until it gets clogged before you replace them.
Most oil filters are designed to allow passage of oil even when clogged. A bypass valve allows “dirty oil” to flow in your engine, but the consequence is accelerated wear and tear.
Basic Maintenance – Clogged Oil Filter
A clogged oil filter should be replaced immediately to avoid engine damage. You can lower maintenance costs by changing your oil filter every time you get an oil change.
A new filter is an affordable piece of equipment compared to the cost of an engine replacement.
You have the option of leaving your old filter on while having an oil change but the idea of new oil passing through a dirty and oil filter defeats the purpose of changing oil.
Once you start your engine in the above scenario, your clean engine oil will become as dirty as the oil you had drained out.
Newer cars have an oil change indicator light or an oil pressure warning light that may turn on due to a clogged oil filter.
Driving conditions like stop and go traffic, extreme weather, and towing heavy loads, makes your engine work harder than usual.
More frequent engine oil and oil filter changes are ideal for better protection and performance.
Oil filters can protect your engine and stop contaminants like dirt, metallic particles, and oxidized oil, from causing damage.
4 SIGNS YOUR CAR HAS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS
Electrical problems are less common in today’s cars than other kinds of problems but they are also more difficult to diagnose than most mechanical problems.
This is one area where you should rely on the expertise of your chosen repair shop to determine the problem and recommend the best solution to fix it. The complicated nature of electrical issues generally requires the use of specialized diagnostic equipment to identify the root cause of the problem. This equipment can access the data your vehicle’s computer stores about how the different components are operating. This data can then be used to pin down the exact problem so that the technician can make the required repairs. Unlike brakes that squeak or an engine that rattles, electrical problems don’t always announce themselves in a way that is easy to understand. The electrical system is compromised of several components including the battery, battery cables, alternator, starter, and computer system. Problems with any of these components can cause problems with the vehicle’s operation. To help ensure you know what to look for, here are some of the common signs there is something amiss with your car’s electrical system.
1. Car Won’t Start This is the most likely electrical problem you will experience in your car. If the car won’t start, there is a good chance you have a problem with the battery, the alternator, or the starter. If you turn the key and nothing happens, check to see if the interior lights came on when you opened the door. If the lights aren’t working and the car won’t start, the problem is likely a dead battery. If the lights are on but nothing happens when you turn the key, the problem is likely your alternator. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, the problem is likely the starter. All of these problems require a visit to the auto repair shop for final diagnosis and repair.
2. Visible Damage or Leakage from the Battery Inspect the battery from time to time to look for corrosion stains or buildup around the terminal. Both can be signs that the battery is leaking, experiencing a problem, or nearing the end of its life. Be careful if you notice any signs of damage or leakage as the contents of the battery are corrosive and they will damage bare skin.
3. The Lights Work, But They Dim While Driving If you notice that the dashboard lights or the headlights seem to dim when you are driving at low speeds or when the car is idling, there may be a problem with the battery, the alternator, or the voltage regulator. If the battery is on its last legs it may be charging slower or have trouble holding a charge which can result in dimming headlights under certain conditions. Problems with the alternator or voltage regulator can also cause the lights to be dimmer under some circumstances.
4. The Car Runs Fine But the Brake Lights Don’t Work If you have replaced the bulbs in both brake lights to no avail, the problem may not be the bulbs at all, it may be a fuse. If some specific part of the vehicle like the brake lights or the radio isn’t working, check to make sure you don’t need to replace a fuse.
6 Tips for Getting Your Car to the 200,000 Mile Mark
Change the Oil On Time, Every Time
Follow the Maintenance Schedule
Turn it Off
Pay Attention
Take Care of Your Tires
Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
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Mercedes-Benz Service, Phoenix, Arizona
Virginia Auto Service provides complete Mercedes-Benz service in Phoenix, Arizona.
Here’s what people are saying about Virginia Auto Service!
“I had heard the many radio spots on 1480 over the last couple years, so gave them a try.
Experience was high level customer service, shop was clean and quite busy. The staff was courteous, and kept me informed asap with diagnosis and quote for repair.
A ride home was given when I left the Tahoe. I also like the complete review of my vehicle which found some forcasted problems which can be addressed before larger costs occur.” Jim Rio, Phoenix, Arizona (verified customer)
Why Choose Virginia Auto Service for Mercedes-Benz Service in Phoenix?
- Convenient! If you work in downtown Phoenix, it’s easy to drop your car off at Virginia Auto Service in the morning and we’ll give you a free ride to work. Then we will pick you up again after work, or when you’re ready to pick up your car after it is done. Don’t waste another day off in the auto repair shop waiting room.
- We Treat You Like Family! We want to make a lifelong customer, not just a sale so we treat our clients just like family. We care about you so we tell you what’s going on with your car, but then we help you prioritize. We understand budgets.
- The Best Mechanics in Phoenix! Our auto mechanics are some of the best in Phoenix. They are all ASE certified and most of them have 20 years’ experience or more!
- Non- intimidating Service Advisors. You don’t have to be a mechanic to understand what our service advisors are saying. We know that most people don’t work on cars for a living so that’s why we make sure to help you understand about what needs fixed with you car.
- A Shop So Clean You Could Cook Dinner on the Floor! Okay, well we really don’t want you to cook dinner on our floor, but we believe a clean shop is a sign of a quality shop. Don’t you?
- The Latest Computer Software and Tools! It’s important that the auto repair shop you go to has the correct computer software and tools needed to work on your car. For example, a Mercedes-Benz, requires computer software just to change the oil correctly! It’s not just about wrenches anymore! The good news is, we invest in the latest tools and technology so you can be sure we’re going to do the job right the first time!
Burgie’s Back!
Dear Friends of Virginia Auto Service,
If you've been around for a couple years or more, then you've probably had an interaction with Burgie, our "Goodwill Ambassador".
Maybe Burgie has taken you to work a time or two and shared some of his stories along the way. Burgie has worked with us at Virginia Auto Service since 2009.
You may recall, back in December of 2018, Burgie needed to take a leave of absence to address some serious health concerns as a result of complications from diabetes. Unfortunately, he had to have part of his foot amputated. He has made exceptional progress in his recovery. You may not even recognize him!
We are happy to welcome him back to work! While he is no longer acting as our shuttle driver, he is back in the mornings for few hours.
He is excited to be working again and to be able to reconnect with customers and the friends he has made over the years.
Burgie will be there to help ensure your drop off goes smooth in the morning. He’s missed all of you and would love to see you again.
So if you need a service done, we've included $25 in "Burgie Bucks" as a special bonus for you! Keep it as a souvenir or bring it in for service on your vehicle!
Help us welcome Burgie back to his home away from home!
Call or click here to make an appointment.
All the best,
Matt and Burgie
Virginia Auto Service
602-266-0200
How to Deal with Engine Difficulties
- Excessive smoke pouring out of the tailpipe
- Using excessive amounts of oil
- Strange sounds like knocking or tapping
- Low oil pressure
- Oil getting into places it shouldn’t be like the air cleaner or radiator
- Low engine compression
- Water in the oil
- Normal wear and tear
- Not performing regular maintenance like oil changes
- Lubrication issues
- Constant overheating
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6 Essential Items to Keep in the Trunk of Your Car
It’s difficult to think of everything that you might want to keep in your car’s trunk, which can result in being unprepared in the event of an emergency. As a responsible motorist, you want to compile a thorough list of what you should always have on hand as a driver. These can include items not only for emergency preparedness, but also convenience and car maintenance. This is a good way to save time and money and eliminate frustration if anything goes wrong while driving. Here are 6 essential items to keep in the trunk of your car in case of emergency.
- A first aid kit. If you are in any type of accident or your car suddenly breaks down, you want to have first aid supplies ready. A good first aid kit should include sterile gauze and bandages, cotton swabs and medical tape, and a cold pack to reduce swelling. You can also add items like insect repellent, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and an over-the-counter pain relief mediation.
- A set of jumper cables. A dead battery is one of the most common car problems that could leave you stranded. Find a working set of jumper cables and locate your car’s battery and battery terminals. Having a set of jumper cables onboard is also nice to be able to help another motorist that becomes stranded from a dead car battery.
- An adjustable lug wrench and tire jack. Tire blowouts are another common problem that can happen while driving, potentially leaving you stranded. You want to be able to take off a faulty tire and put on the spare if needed. It is a good idea to keep a lug wrench and tire jack in the trunk as well as some other basic tools like a screwdriver and a pair of pliers.
- An aluminium flashlight. Having car problems while driving at night, especially during bad weather conditions, presents some added complications. Not being able to see well in the dark can prevent you from identifying and fixing car problems. Make sure that you get a high quality aluminium flashlight with LED lights. Keep new batteries on hand, stored separately in a plastic bag.
- Tire pressure gauge and air compressor pump. Most modern cars come with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that will alert the driver when tire air pressure is low. But the sensors used in TPMS systems can wear out or get damaged from bad road conditions. There are a lot of inexpensive, quality tire gauges available that will allow you to check the air pressure in your tires at any time. Buying an air compressor will also come in very handy to be able to adjust the tire air pressure on your own. You only need a portable air compressor that can plug into the lighter socket inside your car.
- Emergency warning triangles. You want to alert other drivers if your car is broken down on the shoulder of the road close to oncoming traffic. Emergency warning triangles are safer than road flares, and are collapsible, taking up little room in your car’s trunk. Placing these triangles in front of and behind your car, along with using your car’s emergency flashers, will make it much safer if you must make any roadside repairs.
In addition to the essential items needed for emergency preparedness and car maintenance, you can also keep some other convenient things in your car’s trunk. These can include items like a blanket, an umbrella, an all-purpose spray cleaner, paper towels, your car’s manual, and a spare change of clothes.
For all of your vehicle’s service and repair needs in Phoenix, Arizona, you can trust the ASE certified technicians at Virginia Auto Service. Our award-winning staff has been recognized for their leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence. Just schedule an appointment with us online or give us a call at (602) 266-0200.
What Causes Your Car to Keep Blowing Fuses?
Every passenger vehicle has a fuse box. Fuses are electrical devices that are designed to stop circuits from being overloaded. When automotive fuses blow, they will cause problems with the functioning and accessories of your vehicle. If your car’s windshield wipers, power windows and locks, turn signals, or interior lights suddenly cease to function, then you may have a blown fuse on your hands.
If your car blows a fuse: Consult your car’s owner’s manual to find the location of the fuse box. The assigned circuit for each fuse should be shown in a diagram. Some fuses will easily come out by hand, while others might require the use of a pair of pliers. A blown fuse will be black on the inside with a melted metal ribbon, and the glass encasing might be cloudy. Visually inspect each fuse and replace faulty ones as needed.
Replacing faulty fuses in your vehicle is an easy fix, but there might be an underlying factor that causes them to keep blowing out. Here are the 2 most common reasons that your car keeps blowing fuses.
- Your car has a short circuit. Automotive fuses are used to
protect the electrical components and wiring system for your vehicle. A short
in the electrical system will just cause a fuse to blow, rather than the wiring
overheating or melting. A short is just a poor connection between two
conductors that supply electricity, causing an electrical overload in the
circuit. Fixing a short circuit is much easier than identifying the location of the problem. There are
3 typical causes of a short circuit in your car:
- Fraying of the wire insulation. If one of the wires is frayed and becomes exposed, it can touch the metal frame or the ground, causing a short in the circuit. The wire might move around a lot and only occasionally come into contact with a surface, causing intermittent shorts. This is still enough to blow a fuse.
- An electrical device is malfunctioning. Internal damage to your windshield wiper motor or power locking components can cause these systems to use more current flow than normal to keep working. This will overload the circuit causing it to short.
- A conductor is being exposed to the elements. If there is a leak somewhere in your car, fluid could be wetting the wiring harness and connection points. A wet conductor can easily cause the circuit to short.
- Improper fuse replacement. Fuses can keep blowing out if someone has replaced a blown fuse with one of higher amperage. There are a lot of different types of automotive fuses in both amperage and material. Your vehicle’s manual should contain a diagram showing the correct amperage rating for each fuse and the circuit that it is in. If you are unsure as to the amperage required for your car’s fuses, consult an automotive professional to be sure that the right fuse is being used in the right location.
If your car keeps blowing fuses, you need to get to the underlying cause of the problem. Replacing a fuse is an easy, cheap fix, but problems that keep causing fuses to blow can be much more complicated. For all of your auto service and repair needs in the Phoenix, Arizona area, you can trust the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Our ASE certified technicians have a reputation for doing the highest quality work and providing outstanding customer service. Just book an appointment online or give us a call at (602) 266-0200.
Are You Making These Common Car Seat Mistakes?
Using the Wrong Harness Slot
Failure to Use the Harness Chest Clip Appropriately
Not Installing the Car Seat Appropriately
Securing the Harness too Loosely
Using the Seat Belt Incorrectly
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