Category: Honda Repair

Do You Recognize These Signs of a Defective Airbag in Your Honda?

Ensuring the reliability and functionality of airbags in Honda vehicles is vital to prevent potential injuries during accidents. Airbags are an integral safety feature in modern vehicles, including Honda, and they are designed to protect occupants during collisions by rapidly deploying and creating a cushioning effect. They are built to work in conjunction with other critical components within a vehicle’s safety system, like sensors, crash sensors, and the Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

In the event of a collision, the crash sensors detect the impact and send a signal to the ECU, which triggers the airbags’ deployment. The airbags rapidly inflate, creating a protective cushion that reduces the impact force experienced by the occupants. Understanding the potential issues with airbags is crucial for Honda owners to identify warning signs and take necessary actions to rectify any defects.

Typical Cues of Malfunctioning Airbags

• Dashboard Warning Light: If you see a warning light on your car’s dashboard that looks like an airbag, it means there might be a problem with your airbag system. The light may stay on or blink continuously, telling you to take action immediately. When this is observed, take your Honda to a qualified mechanic who can check what’s wrong and fix it.
• False Deployment: Sometimes, the airbags can deploy unexpectedly, even when there’s no accident. This is called false deployment, and it can be dangerous. Imagine the airbags suddenly inflating while you’re driving—it can startle you and potentially cause accidents or injuries. If your Honda’s airbags deploy without any reason, it’s important to seek professional help right away. A technician can diagnose and fix the problem, so the airbags only deploy when they’re needed.
• Faulty Airbag Inflator: In recent years, there have been issues with the part of the airbag system called the inflator. This part contains a substance called ammonium nitrate, which helps inflate the airbag in an accident. However, some inflators have defects that can make them break or rupture when the airbag deploys. You might hear strange noises like hissing or whistling from the steering wheel or dashboard area if the inflator has a problem. If you notice these sounds, addressing the issue as soon as possible is crucial to avoid any potential risks.
• Non-deployment during a Collision: When you get into a car accident, the airbags are supposed to inflate and protect you. But if the airbags don’t inflate when they should, it could mean there’s a serious issue with the airbag system. If the airbags don’t come out like they’re supposed to, you need to have the system checked and repaired immediately, whether the collision happens from the front or the side.

Factors Responsible for Malfunctions in Honda Airbags

• Natural Breakdown: Airbags, like other mechanical components, can experience wear and tear over time. With age, the materials used in the airbag system, such as the fabric covering or the electrical connections, can deteriorate. This aging process can lead to weakened structural integrity or compromised functionality, making the airbags less effective during collisions.
• Inflator Issues: As mentioned earlier, some inflators can become defective. The use of faulty or substandard materials, such as ammonium nitrate-based propellants, can lead to inflator degradation over time. This degradation increases the risk of inflator rupture, resulting in potentially hazardous deployments or the emission of dangerous fragments.
• Environmental Factors: Environmental conditions can also impact the performance of airbags in Honda. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, and exposure to moisture can accelerate the degradation of airbag components like sensors, wiring, and inflators. Over time, these environmental factors can compromise the integrity and reliability of the airbag system, increasing the likelihood of defects or failures during deployment.

Euro Plus Automotive: Your Trusted Partner for Honda Airbag Safety

When it comes to your safety, promptly addressing airbag issues is paramount. At Euro Plus Automotive, we understand how important a properly functioning airbag system is in protecting you and your loved ones on the road, and our team of experienced technicians is here to help.

We are located in Canoga Park, CA, and have served drivers from Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles, CA. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and genuine Honda parts ensure that your airbag system is restored to its optimal functionality. You can trust our expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch service. If you suspect any issues with your Honda’s airbag system, contact us today!

The Best Repair Shop in Canoga Park to Repair Power Lock Issues in a Honda

The power locks on your Honda are one of your car’s most important security features. Your vehicle is protected against theft and burglary with these security components. Furthermore, they make locking and unlocking your car easy and quick. In this regard, power locks that do not work can be unsettling.

Knowing how power locks work, what causes their failure, and how to prevent it can reduce its burden. Therefore, examining some of these points will be the purpose of this article; let’s begin by understanding what they are.

How do power locks actually work?

There are no complicated steps involved in operating the power lock system. Whenever you press the lock or unlock button on your Honda key or inside your car, the actuator receives a relay signal. The actuator works in conjunction with a series of gears in order to lock or unlock the door or doors based on instructions.

Power Door Failures: Possible Causes

A power lock problem has a cause similar to other mechanical or electrical problems in your vehicle. The power lock system incorporates three components that are susceptible to failure, resulting in ineffective operation. Let’s take a look at each briefly:

• Blown fuse: The fuse, which is a low-resistance resistor, provides overcurrent protection. Using fuses, large electrical currents are converted into smaller, easier-to-manage electrical currents that can be used by the door lock actuator. Fuses can blow, causing electrical current to be unable to be directed to actuators, and thus the power lock system becomes inoperative.
• Power lock Switch Failure: The power lock is controlled by a simple rocker switch. By pressing the lock or unlock button, a signal is sent to the actuator to lock or unlock the door. Just as with light switches, the power lock switch may malfunction if it is used excessively.
• Actuator Failure: power lock actuators are responsible for controlling the locking mechanism. An actuator is mechanically constructed using a gear system paired with a rack and pinion system. The actuator rotates the gears using a small motor when it receives the relay signal from the power lock switch. By converting the rotation of the motor into a vertical movement, the rack, and pinion lock and unlock the doors. As a result of their high use rate, power lock actuators are also prone to failure.

Common Reasons for a Power Lock Failure

The power lock system could still fail as a result of these:

• Key fob failure: There are other causes of key fob problems than batteries. It is best to take the keys to the dealer if the problem is not caused by the battery. Whether or not there are problems will be determined by them. It is necessary to replace the fob if it malfunctions or does not transmit.
• Broken wire: The locks may not work if you switch them up and down or open and close the door repeatedly. Whenever the lock begins to work partially, this indicates that the wire is broken and needs to be replaced.
• Frozen door locks: Due to the fact that your door’s power control linkage is not moisture-proof, you may experience frozen doors in freezing weather.

How to Prevent Failure of your Power Lock System

The power locks on your vehicle are an essential component of its security system. Power locks pose a security risk wherever your car may be if they do not work properly. Maintaining your vehicle according to manufacturer recommendations is, therefore, essential.

Keeping an eye out for any difficulties with your Honda’s power lock system is the best way to prevent its failure. A Honda specialist should be consulted as soon as you notice any issues with your doors locking or unlocking.

Euro Plus Automotive: Let Us Care for Your Honda

Do you require the services of a Honda service center in Canoga Park, California? Euro Plus Automotive is the best choice if you are seeking a mechanic for your vehicle. Providing exceptional customer service and excellent auto repair is our top priority. When you visit us with your Honda, you will immediately notice our professionalism and friendliness. Taking care of your car is what we’re passionate about at our auto service center. With decades of experience, we ask for your trust in servicing your car, light truck, or SUV in Canoga Park, San Fernando Valley, Woodland Hills, and Los Angeles County.

Quick Repair of the Power Steering Hose Failure in Honda

Hondas are one of the most dependable cars on the road. They are affordable and retain their resale value. Drivers that purchase Hondas are rarely dissatisfied with their choice. Even though they are one of the best vehicles on the road, they still have some problems. One of these is power steering hose failure.

What is the power steering hose?

The power steering pressure hose is an essential component of the steering system. The hose carries the power steering fluid between the power steering rack and the steering pump. The power steering pump sends the power steering fluid to the steering gear. When everything is working together properly, the steering is smooth.

Without power steering, it can be hard to make a turn. You will have to put a large amount of effort into turning the steering wheel. You may also notice that the brakes are very hard to push.

Symptoms of Power Steering Hose Failure in Honda

Cars have two kinds of power steering pressure hoses: high pressure and low pressure. It is important that both hoses are in good working order. If you notice any of these symptoms, call us today to book your appointment.

• Trouble Steering: The main and most common symptom of power steering hose failure is trouble steering. The steering wheel often becomes hard to turn. This can make maneuvering your car and turning corners difficult.
• Fluid Leak: A power steering fluid leak is an obvious sign there is an issue. Your Honda uses many different types of fluids. Power steering fluid is often clear or amber in color. It will either smell like burned marshmallows or oil.
• Low Fluid Level: The power steering fluid should be checked regularly. If there is a drop in the fluid level, there is a leak in the power steering system or a hose.
• Groaning Noise: If you hear a groaning noise when steering your Honda, this can mean that the fluid level is low.
• Contaminated Fluid: Over time, hoses should be replaced. They can break down and leave particles in the fluid. These particles can damage the power steering system.

Causes of Power Steering Hose Failure

Both power steering hoses in your Honda are made of rubber. As they age, they can break down and fail. The most common reasons for power steering hose failure include:

• Age: Since the hoses are made of rubber, they will wear out over time. You may notice the hoses cracking and flaking. Hoses can also become soft when they are breaking down.
• High Temperatures: Constant fluctuations in heat can wear out the hoses causing them to fail.
• Outside Factors: The outer layers of the hoses can be damaged by outside elements such as worn mounts and abrasions.
• Corrosion: Fittings can corrode leading to failure.

Preventing Power Steering Hose Failure

Preventative maintenance is the best way to prevent power steering hose failure in your Honda. There are many benefits to preventative maintenance. Being proactive and taking a preventive approach will help you save time and money. The more proactive you are at preventative maintenance the longer your Honda will last.

Is it safe to drive with power steering hose failure?

You can still drive your Honda when you are experiencing power steering hose failure. However, we do not recommend that you do so. The hoses are very important parts of your steering system. They help you easily steer your car. If the hose fails, you can have trouble directing your vehicle, which can lead to an accident.

Another reason not to drive with a failing power steering hose is a fire. The power steering fluid is highly flammable. It can spray into the engine leading to a fire. This is dangerous for many reasons. It’s best to call for a tow and bring it to us for inspection and repair.

We Are Here to Help You

If you are experiencing any symptoms of power steering hose failure, call us right away. The power steering hose is crucial for smooth maneuverability and your safety.

At Euro Plus Automotive, we can help you with all your Honda service needs. We service drivers in the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles County, CA areas. If you have any questions or need to book an appointment call us on 818-485-4905, or come see us at 7107 Canoga Ave, Canoga Park.

Best Repair Shop in Canoga Park for Fixing Airbag Issues in Your Honda

Safety features are an important part of buying a car. Knowing where the airbags are located, the condition of the brakes, and if there are blind spot detectors are some of the safety features of your Honda. Airbags are one of the relatively newer features in automotive history, and they have made driving undeniably safer for drivers and passengers.

Airbags became mandatory in every U.S. vehicle in 1998. We expect these airbags to properly work in instances when we need them most to keep us safe. It is crucial that we always ensure the airbags are well-maintained so they work on demand. Below, we’ve put together some signs and symptoms of airbag malfunction and will talk about what to do if you notice an issue.

The Airbag Light

There are numerous lights on the dashboard of your Honda. This is the way your vehicle communicates with you when issues occur. The airbag light is one of the most important lights on there because it directly relates to your safety. If the warning light stays on, the airbag is off.

In some models, the driver seat belt light is the same as the airbag light. If you click your seat belt and the light turns off, this means that you are safely strapped in and the airbag is fully functional. This light is usually not something that we pay close attention to because it turns off every time we put our seat belt on.

The problem occurs when the light stays illuminated but we continue to ignore it. If the seat belt has clicked in place but the light stays on, then this could indicate at least one non-functional airbag.

Most vehicles now have an airbag light for the passenger side as well. The airbag function is activated by a weight sensor in the passenger seat. When there is no one sitting there, the light remains on to indicate the passenger airbag is off because it is not necessary. For example, if you get into an accident and your backpack is in the passenger seat, only the driver side airbag will deploy because the backpack was not heavy enough to be registered by the sensor. The driver should always be aware of if the airbag lights are on or off.

Causes for the Airbag Light to Remain Illuminated

When driving, if the airbag light remains on, then this is a serious issue because an airbag is not functional. The first cause can be that the airbag is deactivated. It could deactivate because no one in the passenger seat, as mentioned above. Or it could deactivate because there is a faulty sensor. A faulty sensor should be inspected immediately by a professional so the airbag can be safely-functional again.

Another cause for the airbag light to stay illuminated is after a small collision under 8 mph. If you were in a fender bender or hit a light pole in a parking lot, the airbag may not deploy because you were not in any danger of getting hurt due to force. But the crash system will still be activated because it is a sensitive sensor that will cause the airbag light to illuminate when any type of collision occurs. The only way to fix this is by bringing your Honda into a trusted shop to have the crash sensor reset.

One last cause of airbag warning is water damage. The airbag and crash sensors are electrical components. Thus, in order to function, they need to remain dry. They have the potential of getting wet if you drive through a flooded area or if a torrential downpour was able to reach the inside of your vehicle. The water damage will disrupt the system and lead to the airbag light remaining illuminated.

Fixing the Airbag Issues in your Honda

The airbags are part of your Honda meant to keep you safe in an accident. So the moment you notice that the light is illuminated, meaning there is a problem with the airbag, it is time to bring your Honda in for service at Euro Plus Automotive.

Euro Plus Automotive is easily accessible from the areas of Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County, CA. Our shop has years of combined experience and our technicians hold numerous certifications that allow us to safely work on your Honda.

We use the latest technologies to diagnose airbag sensor issues and always make sure that you are happy with the repair and that you are able to get back on the road in a quick and safe manner. You can easily make an appointment with us to have your Honda inspected by contacting us today. We look forward to meeting you.

How to Deal With Compliance Bushing Failure in Your Honda From the Experts in Canoga

Hondas are a great investment. They are affordable, reliable, and hold their resale value. Honda is well known for making vehicles that are safe and comfortable while providing exceptional performance. To keep your Honda in great working order, you need to stay current on your regular maintenance schedule. At Euro Plus Automotive, our expert technicians can take care of all of your Honda needs, including compliance bushing replacement.

What is a compliance bushing?

A compliance bushing is also known as the control arm bushing. It is a necessary part of the suspension. It is a small component made from rubber or polyurethane. It is used to provide cushioning and isolate vibration. It also reduces friction that can occur between metal parts.

What is the purpose of the suspension system?

The suspension in your Honda is comprised of several different parts. Its main purpose is to deliver a smooth ride with steering stability. Since the roads we drive are full of bumps and potholes, a suspension system is necessary. The imperfections in the road can lead to a very uncomfortable ride.

The suspension system is always being used. It undergoes a lot of stress and will wear out over time. Once the parts of the system begin to fail, you will become will begin to notice your ride getting rougher. You may also begin to hear strange noises.

How does the suspension system work?

Your suspension system is attached to the frame of your vehicle. All the components of the system work closely together. This gives you a smooth ride and consistent handling. The most common components are:

• Control Arm
• Compliance Bushing (aka control arm bushing)
• Strut Rod
• Ball Joints
• Shock Absorber/Strut
• Stabilizer Bar

Your Honda’s suspension should always be kept in good condition. If any of the components begin to fail, they will impact the stability of the vehicle. This will have a negative effect on handling and can lead to damage of other components.

Symptoms of Compliance Bushing Failure

Wheel Alignment

When a bushing fails it will allow your wheel to have a degree of play. By raising your car, you can see if there is play by pushing your hand against the wheel. If you can move it sideways, back and forth, you need to replace the bushing.

Braking Seems to Improve

It might seem strange, but your braking efficiency may improve off-and-on if your bushing fails. This is because the control arm isn’t functioning properly. It may be intermittent which will make driving your vehicle unsafe.

Strange Noises

When parts begin to wear out you often hear strange noises. If you are experiencing an issue with your suspension system you may hear a knocking sound when going over bumps, squeaking or grunting when turning or going over bumps, the sound of a rusty hinge when the car rocks back and forth or bounces, or a rattling noise that is hard to pinpoint.

Steering Issues

The most common indication of a compliance bushing failure is steering problems. The steering may not be as responsive as it once was. It may be erratic at high speeds. The steering wheel may shake. And during turns, the car may lean to one side.

Comfort

If you have a bad compliance bushing, it will not be able to cushion your ride. Even the smallest bumps will be felt. As the parts wear out you will also begin to hear and irritating rattling or clunking noise.

Uneven Tire Wear

A failed bushing can cause your tires to wear unevenly. They can have excessive wear on either the inside or the outside.

We are Here for You

At Euro Plus Automotive, our technicians can help with all your German and Japanese import needs. If you are experiencing any issues, don’t hesitate to contact us. You never want to drive your vehicle if you are experiencing any type of issue. Doing so is dangerous and can lead to more damage. Call us today to schedule an appointment. You can reach us on 818-710-8244 or come see us at 7107 Canoga Ave, Canoga Park. We service the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County, CA areas.