General FAQ
What does it mean if my car is making a clicking noise when I turn?
The constant velocity joins will produce a clicking noise when making a turn if it is in some way damaged. If this isn’t attended to right away, you risk unsafe turning and other hazards that could be a serious risk to your safety. If you hear clicking when you turn, please bring your European vehicle into our Austin auto shop right away!
My engine light is on. What should I do before taking my car in?
Well, the first thing you should do is check to see if your gas cap is on tight. A check engine light could indicate a problem that is simple. However, the light flashing could mean something far more serious, so if you’re not finding that a simple check of the car isn’t helping to turn the light off, then surely bring the car into our Austin auto shop.
How can I tell if my brakes need immediate attention?
If your brakes are making squeaking or grinding noises, this is the most blaring sign that you need new brake pads soon. This sound is actually a warning to let a driver know the pads need replacement before they’re so worn down that one risks not being able to stop the car after moving at high speeds, which is, of course, extremely dangerous.
Why does my car vibrate at high speeds?
Vibrations at high speeds are often caused by unbalanced wheels, misaligned tires, or suspension issues. Sometimes, worn-out wheel bearings or problems with the drivetrain may also be the wrench in the gear. The best way to solve this problem is to get your alignment and suspension checked at our Austin auto shop; otherwise, the vibrations could end up knocking things dangerously loose.
What causes my car to overheat, and how can I prevent it?
If you’re noticing the car is overheating, then you need to check out your internal thermostat, water pump, coolant levels, and your radiator. The first thing we’ll do is inspect the belts and hoses for wear, then move to flushing the coolant pumps. If your car overheats while you’re driving, pull over right away, as it could be dangerous to keep going and get the car towed to our Austin auto shop.
What should I do if my car doesn’t start?
If the car isn’t starting, check the battery connections, as they could be loosened from the car’s vibrations or corroded from exposure to the elements. If the battery is okay, then the next thing to check is the starter, alternator, and ignition system. To help figure it out, turn on your headlights, and if they are dim, it’s likely a weak battery. Taking the car in for a diagnosis in Austin is surely the most efficient way to get everything fixed up properly, so you can rest assured you won’t experience further issues from a half-hearted fix.
My car is leaking fluid—what does each color mean?
- Red: The transmission or power steering fluid is the root of this problem.
- Green: If it’s green, it’s likely coolant, which usually means a radiator or hose leak.
- Brown or Black: Engine oil is this color, which means you’re probably experiencing a leak in the engine gasket or oil pan.
- Clear or Yellow: Brake fluid, which requires urgent attention for safe driving amongst our cherished Austin community.
Why is my car pulling to one side while driving?
If the vehicle is starting to pull to one side as you drive, this usually means your wheels are misaligned, the tires are worn down unevenly, or the brake system is broken and needs attention. Getting your brakes fixed up or your wheels aligned will greatly increase your safety so you can focus on where you are going rather than how you’ll get there.
How often should I schedule maintenance for my European vehicle?
European vehicles often come with recommendations from the manufacturers, which we follow with conviction. Generally, maintenance is called for every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or annually. This usually includes getting your oil changed, your brakes inspected, your fluid checked, and your filters replaced so the system stays pristine, which will make it run without issue for far longer.
What are the signs of a failing suspension system?
Some of the signs are more obvious, such as a bumpy ride, but difficulty steering can also indicate that the suspension is wearing down. If you look at the tires and find some are more worn down than others, this is also a strong sign that the suspension isn’t working properly.