Charley's Auto Service

05/29/2021

We will be closed on Monday, May 31st for Memorial Day. Hope everyone has a good holiday!

05/18/2021

05/12/2021

Symptoms of failing tie rod ends:

-Uneven tire wear. The inside or outside tread of your front tires are wearing early compared to the rest of the tread.

-Squealing sound from the front when turning. This sounds different from the squeal/groan the power steering makes when low on fluid.

-Loose steering feel.

-Tie rod failure.

05/06/2021

Can you drive a car with a radiator leak?

If your radiator is leaking, coolant will be lost and the engine will have the potential to overheat. You should not be driving the vehicle and should have it inspected. It may need to be replaced.

04/27/2021

How do I know if my brake calipers are bad?

-Pulling to one side. A seized brake caliper or caliper sliders can cause the vehicle to pull to one side or the other while braking.
-Fluid leaks.
-Spongy or soft brake pedal.
-Reduced braking ability.
-Uneven brake pad wear.
-Dragging sensation.
-Abnormal noise.

04/22/2021

What is a knuckle on a car?

In automotive suspension, a steering knuckle is that part which contains the wheel hub or spindle, and attaches to the suspension and steering components. It is variously called a steering knuckle, spindle, upright or hub, as well. The wheel assembly is shown attached to the knuckle at its center point.

04/19/2021

What causes a frozen caliper?

The common cause for a brake caliper sticking is with the caliper piston and the brake hose. The piston has a rubber boot on it which lubricates and protects it. But if this rubber is torn, it will cause debris and rust to form inside the caliper which means the piston's sliding abilities will diminish.

04/15/2021

Signs of Timing Chain about to Jump

The big sign that a timing belt is about to jump or break is clanking sounds. You might also hear the rattling noise when you are speeding up and slowing down. Another thing to look out for as a warning that your timing chain might be about to jump is your engine burning a lot of oil.

04/13/2021

What happens when a knock sensor goes bad?

A bad knock sensor may also not let the engine accelerate properly while driving on the highway, and cause the vehicle to lose fuel mileage. Once the computer realizes the knock sensor is not working properly, your vehicle will most likely lose power.

04/10/2021

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Control Arm Assembly

-Steering wheel vibration. One of the first symptoms commonly associated with bad control arms is steering wheel vibrations.

-Steering wandering. Another symptom commonly associated with bad or failing control arm assembly is steering wandering.

-Clunking noises.

04/07/2021

What is ECV in a car?

Electromagnetic control valve (ECV) controls an automobile vehicle air conditioning compressor based on a pulse width modulation (PWM) input signal that supplied from an external controller.

04/01/2021

What is the function of a belt tensioner?

Belt tensioners are extremely important in the proper operation of the accessory belt drive system. A tensioner maintains the correct amount of tension on the belt at all times throughout its duty cycle. It also helps protect other components such as the alternator and water pump from undue stress and premature failure.