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Category: Auto Info

O2 Sensor Used in Car

Why Is the O2 Sensor Important for Your Car?

Engine functioning and vehicle performance hinge upon several factors. As you might have guessed, your car is complex and can be affected by any number of issues that come up with the various symptoms involved in optimal functioning. Your car can be broken down into parts and systems that work together in harmony to produce appropriate running conditions that are associated with the particular brand and type of vehicle you drive. When one, or more, of these parts begins to malfunction, it can take a toll on your vehicle’s performance and overall function. The best way to prevent issues from occurring is to stay on top of maintenance and repair procedures.

While all of your vehicle’s parts and systems are critical to its overall performance, one of the most elemental pieces of your car’s functioning is the O2 sensor. We’ll get more into what the O2 sensor does and how to detect issues with it, and it’s essential to understand the system that the O2 sensor is a part of. Involved in the exhaust system, the O2 sensor plays several important roles for your car, and it works in tandem with the control module of the car to regulate the air-to-fuel ratio needed for combustion. Here’s a little bit more on the O2 sensor and why it’s important for your car:

What does an O2 sensor do?

As we mentioned, the O2 sensor plays a large role in the combustion process. It is responsible for detecting the amount of oxygen in the air released through your exhaust system and uses the information to adjust the proper amount of air that’s needed for adequate combustion. Communicating with your car’s control module, it has a significant impact on the efficiency of your engine, the gasses that your car releases into the atmosphere, and your car’s ability to function at any given moment. As you might have guessed, this part is needed in order for your vehicle to start and run, and can directly affect your car’s level of reliability.

What are the signs and symptoms of a failing O2 sensor?

A failing O2 sensor is no picnic—you’ll notice the symptoms right away. Since these signs and symptoms are especially concerning to the modern driver, O2 sensor issues typically get resolved with immediacy. However, the longer the problem is not fixed, the more impact you’ll notice on your vehicle’s reliability and performance. Here are a few of the typical signs that your O2 sensor may be failing and how to know when it needs to be replaced:

Rough idling or misfiring

Rough idling is usually noticed while you’re sitting in the driveway parked, waiting to leave for work in the morning or to run daily errands. You might not notice it right away, but when you do, it can be jarring. Rough idling is one thing, but engine misfiring is quite another. If your engine misfires, you might consider getting a rental car and bringing yours immediately to a trusted automotive shop.

Reduced fuel efficiency

Perhaps one of the most upsetting symptoms to drivers who experience O2 sensor failure is reduced fuel economy. It is relatively easy to keep an eye on gas mileage these days, especially because most modern cars detect it for you. However, paying close attention to shifts or sudden changes in fuel efficiency can be a warning for various different problems, so it’s important to have a differential diagnosis performed to isolate the source of the issue as the O2 sensor.

Illuminated check-engine light

The dreaded check-engine light is daunting for any driver, but it’s especially important to bring your car in when it’s illuminated. The reason for this is because when your reliable automotive specialist reads the code reported by the car’s computer, it may clearly indicate that the O2 sensor is the culprit, cutting out the middle man.

How to know when to replace the O2 sensor

O2 Sensor The routine maintenance plan for your vehicle designates when is appropriate or should be expected to replace the O2 sensor. Usually these parts need to be replaced before the 100,000-mile mark. At Euro Plus Automotive, we service a range of vehicles in LA County from Canoga Park and Woodland Hills to other San Fernando Valley areas in Southern California. Since the O2 sensor is a critical component of every vehicle, we are experts in the diagnosis and repair work associated with failure of such parts. If you suspect that your O2 sensor in your German or Japanese-engineered vehicle is beginning to malfunction or fail, please contact us directly to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

Car Oil Leak

Reasons for and Prevention of Oil Leak in Cars

Routine auto maintenance sometimes escapes us—it could be a matter of money, or not having enough free time. However, oil maintenance and care is perhaps one of the most important, routine auto care tasks that shouldn’t go overlooked. The oil in your engine is critical to the overall health of your vehicle. When our motor oil isn’t clean and free-flowing through the engine, it can cause other serious problems, creating expensive and detrimental issues that can keep our car from running all together. Oil leaks are one of the more troubling symptoms of oil trouble, and it helps to have a basic understanding of how to recognize and address these issues. Here are some of the possible reasons for an oil leak and how to fix them.

Corroded or Damaged Seals

The oil pan keeps oil from leaking with multiple parts, such as the oil gasket. The valve cover gasket and oil seals keep oil contained in the engine and keep it flowing through the necessary parts. When the oil gasket or seals are damaged or corroded, it can spring a leak. These issues are relatively easy to fix, given that you bring your car to the right automotive shop who won’t gouge you on pricing.

Damaged Oil Pan

Oil pans can become damaged in a number of ways. Perhaps one of the most common instances of oil pan damage is when we accidentally run over a piece of debris in the road that can puncture it, causing a leak. When the oil pan becomes punctured, the gasket that seals the oil in becomes useless. This often results in the need for a new oil pan, depending on the level of damage that is caused.

Over-Filled Oil

Regular oil changes are great, but sometimes when oil is changed it can be filled improperly. When your oil is over-filled, it can cause spills or leaks quite easily. The recommended oil level should be clearly marked, and you should always be sure to consult a professional if attempting to change your oil yourself. Over-filled oil can leak, causing concerning smoke while driving or stains in your driveway.

Regularly Change Oil & Filter

One of the best ways to prevent oil leaks is to have the oil routinely changed, along with the oil filter. Having clean oil is essential to your engine’s health and functioning, and routine oil and filter changes give your automotive specialist an opportunity to inspect the quality of your oil and replace it with clean oil before dirt and debris causes harmful effects on your engine.

Use the Right Type of Oil

It is essential to make sure you’re using the right type of oil for your car’s engine. You can find this information in your owner’s manual—it will give manufacturer-recommended types of oil to use that are the proper viscosity for your vehicle’s particular engine. If you have your oil changed by an automotive professional, you should also check with them first to make sure they use the correct type of oil.

Have Routine Inspections

The symptoms of oil leaks can leave effects on other parts of your car, and signs of an oil leak may be evident in other areas first, before it may be time for an oil change. Routine inspections and tune-ups are a great way for automotive technicians to keep an eye on your car’s overall functioning.

Here at Euro Plus Automotive, we provide specialized automotive care for Draining Car Oil German and Japanese import vehicles in the areas of Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and the greater Los Angeles County, in California. We know that routine automotive care is not something that most people think of throughout the course of their daily lives, so we simplify the process the best we can for our clients. For over 30 years, we have continued to offer special financing, warrantees, and competitive pricing that make specialized automotive care available to everyone in the area. Our ASE certified automotive technicians are highly knowledgeable about the common issues that affect German and Japanese imports, and are skilled at accurately diagnosing and fixing issues—no problem is too simple or too difficult. If you would like to schedule an oil change, an inspection, or a consultation with our team of experts, contact us today.

Tire Pressure Check

Tips to Increase the Longevity of Your Car Tires

Many drivers don’t realize how important their tires are for the overall health of their vehicle. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, you may have noticed that tires can be expensive to replace—especially when they aren’t properly cared for. There are many factors that contribute to how often we need to replace or service our tires, and it is important to keep these factors in mind while going about your daily life. In fact, most drivers may not realize what a huge impact daily driving conditions and driving habits can have on their car’s tires, and therefore your car’s overall performance levels. Owning a luxury import vehicle comes with the responsibility of ongoing vehicle care; regular maintenance is important in order to uphold the brand’s integrity, retain its value, and increase performance and endurance. Since your tires are your main connection to the road, they can tell us a lot about what kind of condition your vehicle is in and how well it is performing. Additionally, the healthier your tires are, the longer they will last. Here are some tips to increase the longevity of your car tires and improve your vehicle’s performance:

Tire Rotations

How often you rotate your tires will likely depend on how frequently you drive your car, the typical distance you drive, and the common condition of the roads that you drive on. A good rule of thumb is to have your tires checked for rotation every time you get your oil changed. It is also important to have your tires rotated before a long road trip—this will reduce the risk of a blowout or a flat tire while traveling at high speeds for extended periods of time. Rotating your tires spreads the wear around evenly amongst all four tires so that the front and back and right and left side tires don’t wear out any sooner than the others.

Wheel Alignments

Wheel alignments can greatly improve the longevity and reduce the wear of your tires. It is important to pay attention to any small differences in alignment by looking at your tires wear patterns in addition to looking out for a few other telltale signs of misalignment. For instance, if you notice your steering pulling in a specific direction other than straight on a flat bit of road, you likely need an alignment. Or, if the emblem of your steering wheel is off-center while facing in a straight forward direction, you should have your alignment checked.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Keeping a tire pressure gauge in your center console is a good way to remind yourself to check your tire pressure routinely. Many modern vehicles will alert the driver if tire pressure becomes too low on any of the four tires; however, in order to avoid uneven wear patterns, blowouts, frequent tire replacement, or dangerous flats while driving at higher speeds, you should always keep your tire pressure at the specified level recommended by the manufacturer. You can find this specific pressure level in your owner’s manual or on the inside of the driver’s side door.

Routine Suspension Inspections

Because your wheels and tires are directly connected to suspension components, if something goes wrong with a suspension part it can express itself in your tire health. For instance, one of your front tires may show uneven wear patterns if a suspension component begins to prematurely wear or fail completely. By routinely checking your various suspension components through ongoing maintenance appointments you can keep an eye on the different parts of your vehicle that affect your tire health.

Our Philosophy on Tire Health

Wheel Alignment Check At Euro Plus Automotive, we take a holistic approach to vehicle care. Serving Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and other areas of Los Angeles County, CA, we see a wide range of vehicle issues daily. After years of experience and automotive knowledge, our approach to repair and maintenance tasks is to treat the vehicle like an integrated system—in other words, we know that if your tires are showing signs of uneven wear that there are likely other issues causing it. While we never advise our clients to spend more money than is necessary on repairs, we take great pride in our philosophy on educating and informing our clients on how they can best care for their vehicles. For more information about our expertise in European import vehicles, call us today. We look forward to helping keep your car, and your tires, performing at their best.

Buying Used Audi

What Should You Focus on While Buying a Used Audi?

Audi’s are known for their multi-purpose functioning. Rated one of the best cars for families, best value, and best vehicle brand year after year, Audi’s are versatile. They are renowned for their luxury, high performance, and adaptability to fit a wide range of drivers’ needs. Above all else, Audi’s withstand the test of time; their value retention is much higher than other luxury vehicles out there. Therefore, when looking for a used car to purchase, Audi’s are a sound choice. When you decide to purchase a used Audi, there are specific things you should look for; actually, this translates to most used vehicles, not just Audi’s. Considering the interior, exterior, specs, and mileage are all critical to the success of your purchase, and it’s important to be as informed as possible before diving head first into a deal. So that you don’t go in totally blind, here are some things to focus on while buying a used Audi:

A Model that Fits Your Needs

Much like falling in love, even though the process of buying a car is exciting, it’s important to remain levelheaded and hold out for the right one. Audis come in a variety of designs that address different areas of concern for drivers. Not all Audi models will suit your needs—for instance, although a new sports car is enticing, it might not be the best option for a family of four who needs more space and efficiency. In this case, be aware of the sacrifices you might need to make in power for a larger vehicle that fits more people. Audi SUVs and sedans maintain a sense of luxury, but accommodate the needs of a family better than a high-performance counterpart. In other words, have a list of your needs that will help you narrow down your options.

Mileage Doesn’t Tell You Everything

Many people looking to buy a used Audi go straight for the lower mileage cars. While higher-mileage vehicles aren’t ideal in general, that doesn’t necessarily indicate that they have been beaten and battered into a worn pile of useless metal. Audis are known for their durability, and many Audi drivers are committed to ongoing vehicle maintenance. Therefore, even a higher-mileage Audi that costs less than others might be a better deal in the long run. Vehicle longevity is highly predicted by the quality of care an owner puts into a vehicle, not how many miles are on the odometer. It’s best to get a second opinion before jumping to any conclusions. Pre-purchase inspections are critical in this sense, and we’ll talk more about that in a moment.

Judging a Book By Its Cover is OK

If you’re looking for a fixer-upper, then maybe the outward appearance of an older, heavily used Audi won’t scare you. Unfortunately, the exterior and interior of a vehicle can tell you a lot about the previous owner’s standard of care. If the exterior paint job, body, or glass or the interior seats, leather, or carpeting is in poor condition, you may want to skip to the next option—this is a pretty good indication that what’s under the hood isn’t in any better of a state. If the exterior doesn’t bother you, a pre-purchase inspection can help verify if the condition of the engine and other critical components that will likely cost an arm and a leg to replace, and you might be able to pay a lower price for the car.

Pre-Purchase Inspections

Buying a used Audi can be a tricky process to navigate—especially because we Used Audi for Sale typically aren’t able to determine the quality of the engine components just by looking at a surface glance. At Euro Plus Automotive we have helped countless used car buyers in the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County, CA, areas conduct pre-purchase inspections that help them to determine the quality of a vehicle before they invest. Because we specialize in German-engineered imports like Audis, we have a keen sense of what cars hold the most value and what a good-quality engine should look like. We also offer a wide range of automotive services for ongoing vehicle maintenance performed by our ASE certified technicians. For over 30 years we have employed our skills and knowledge in helping used car buyers; if you would like more information on how we can help you, contact us to schedule a pre-purchase inspection or speak to a professional today.

Audi 6 Series 2 image credit goes to: stonena7.

Trusted Car Repair Shop

Significant Traits of a Trusted Car Repair Shop

The traits of a trusted car repair shop are unchanging; like any business, they have to offer things that the community needs and services people can trust in. Not every automotive business is good at upholding their commitment to trustworthiness and integrity, so it is the consumer’s job to make sure they make the right choice when it comes to finding an automotive shop that suits them best. If you are looking for a trustworthy automotive specialist that can help you with your vehicle repair and maintenance needs on a regular basis, here is a list of qualities that you should keep an eye out for:

Reputation

Because automotive care can be a difficult thing to accurately assess for as the average driver, it is important to listen to what other customers have to say about a business. Customer ratings are one of the number one ways to determine how a business handles the customer service aspect of their company. You will be able to get a sense of a shop’s honesty and the level of pride they take in their work. Many automotive technicians undergo rigorous educational standards of training, and have earned a reputation for exceptional repair and maintenance services, but do not have what it takes to maintain good business relationships with their clients. This is a critical element of automotive services—as it is important to make customers feel valued, respected, and cared for. You can look up a shop’s reviews online to hear a range of comments about their customer service including efficiency. While it’s normal for not every individual to experience a service in the same way, you should look for a shop that has an overwhelmingly positive online response from current or former clients. There are other ways to gauge how a business conducts themselves with their clients, which brings us to our next point.

Communication and Connection to Clients

Have you ever been to an automotive shop or dealership where you felt ignored, unattended to, and left in the dark? It can be one of the most frustrating experiences for drivers, especially because the vast majority of individuals are not automotive experts. A trustworthy car repair shop should be attentive, friendly, and highly responsive to your questions and concerns. An important part of auto care is the approach a business takes to informing their clients throughout the ongoing process of vehicle maintenance. They should help educate their clients in terms that they can relate to and understand, and help people improve their vehicle performance by increasing their awareness about automotive maintenance. Reach out to a few shops to gauge how they respond to your inquiries about their services in order to find a shop that best suits your individual needs.

Experience and Qualifications

High-end, performance vehicles require special attention and care in order to maintain their optimal driving conditions. An automotive shop that meets that need for maintenance should have a good amount of experience working with specialty brands. They should be certified, credentialed, and have a wide base of knowledge of different models and manufacturer maintenance standards. You can usually find these qualifications on a shop’s website—they will proudly display their credentials and training. Furthermore, beware of dealerships that increase their prices for “specialized” services; you can usually find auto care at the same skill level and quality or better at a much more reasonable cost.

The Euro Plus Automotive Promise

Euro Plus Automotive serves Canoga Park, CA, and the surrounding areas of Lady with Auto Mechanic Woodland Hills and other San Fernando Valley locations. After three decades of experience in the automotive business, we have a wide skillset that deems us qualified to perform any automotive repair or maintenance task with expertise, although we specialize in Japanese and German engineered vehicles. Unlike expensive dealerships and other nearby automotive service centers, we have a genuine passion to help clients in our community who need auto care but can’t afford the hefty price tag. Our online reviews are outstanding, and our clientele is loyal—which is indicative of our high level of customer service. It is our mission to make sure every client leaves our shop satisfied with our work and more informed than when they arrived. If you need more information about our shops qualifications, credentials, or expertise, contact us today—we look forward to becoming your trusted neighborhood car repair shop.

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