Is Your Check Engine Light On? Don’t Ignore it.

One of the most vital signals of an improperly functioning vehicle is the check engine light and when illuminated, it alerts the driver to a variety of existing potential problems. Vehicle check-ups during community car care events throughout the country reveal that the check engine light is on in nearly one out of ten vehicles, says the Car Care Council.

“When the check engine light comes on, it means that a vehicle system, such as the ignition, fuel injection or emission control, is not operating properly, even if the vehicle appears to be running normally,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “A glowing check engine light doesn’t mean you have to immediately pull the car to the side of the road, but it does mean you should get the car checked out as soon as possible. Ignoring the warning light could result in costly repairs. At the very least, the light could alert you to an engine problem that is negatively impacting fuel economy.”

Some common malfunctions that can cause the check engine light to illuminate include a faulty oxygen sensor, mass air flow sensor, or spark plugs and wires. If the light flashes, the condition is more critical and must be checked immediately to prevent severe damage, which may include catalytic converter damage.

When scheduling service, make sure the automotive shop that examines your vehicle has professional technicians who are trained and certified in OBDII diagnosis and repair. The technician will connect your vehicle’s computer system to a diagnostic scan tool, which will provide trouble codes indicating why the check engine light was activated.

While the diagnostic tool is connected, the technician can analyze data streams such as the idle speed, throttle response, engine temperature, fuel system pressure, manifold vacuum, exhaust emission levels and many other key indicators. Once the problem is fixed, the car’s computer is reset to initiate the computer’s release process. The technician should then advise the customer of the proper course of action, potential warranty coverage, further testing if necessary and recommended repairs.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

The Top 10 Reasons Car Owners Buy Air Fresheners

According to a survey by Halfords, a UK-based out accessories/auto parts retailer, people really hate the smell of wet dog in their cars.

That particularly pungent odor topped the list of the reasons people buy air fresheners for their cars, beating out other noxious scents such as dried spilt milk and children's vomit. The entire top ten list includes (in order):

1. Wet dog
2. Dried spilt milk
3. Child's sick
4. Teenage body odor
5. Festering fast food
6. Forgotten fruit
7. Sweaty feet
8. Cigarette/cigar smoke
9. Dirty diaper
10. Animal mess on shoes

The thought of having any of these odors in a small enclosed space like an automobile is enough to get us thinking about stocking up on air fresheners just in case. What do you think? Have you experienced any car odors that belong on the list?

Put a Stop to Brake Trouble During Brake Safety Month

A properly operating brake system is critical to safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. Brake Safety Awareness Month in August, sponsored by the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP), is the ideal time to stop and make sure your brakes are working properly before the new school year and colder temperatures arrive.

“When it comes to vehicle safety, the brake system is at the top of the list,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Motorists can put a stop to any potential brake system problems by recognizing the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.”

Brakes are a normal wear item for any car and eventually they’re going to need to be replaced. If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should inspect your brakes. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.

For routine maintenance, check your vehicle’s braking system at least once a year. A thorough inspection should include brake lining wear, brake fluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses and brake lines, brake and dash warning lights, as well as taking the car for a test drive to detect other potential brake system problems.

Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repair, such as letting the brakes get to the “metal-to-metal” point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to a more costly repair bill.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

2012 Chevy Equinox

2012 Chevrolet Equinox LS BLUETOOTH ECO FLEX FUEL AND GREAT FUEL ECONOMY

This 2012 Chevrolet Equinox features a metallic silver exterior with a mixed interior of black and taupe. Features leather steering wheel, Bluetooth, keyless entry with an extra set of keys, CD player. Eco/flex fuel. Immaculate condition - very large interior cabin.

Visit Burnsville Motors online at www.burnsvillemotors.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 952-808-0031 today to schedule your test drive.