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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair

What’s causing your coolant to leak? A detailed guide…

Have you ever noticed a puddle of green or yellow fluid under your car? If yes, it could be a sign of a coolant leak. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe engine damage or even engine failure, which means costly repairs. Therefore, it’s vital to identify the cause of the leak and get it fixed immediately.

In this blog post, we’ll take you through the common causes of coolant leaks in your vehicle, signs to look out for, and prevention tips.

Why Does My Coolant Leak Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cooling System Leaks Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

• Damaged radiator: The radiator is the most critical component of your vehicle’s cooling system. A damaged or corroded radiator can cause leaks and lead to engine overheating. If you notice a hole or crack in the radiator, it must be replaced immediately.

• Broken water pump: The water pump is responsible for circulating the coolant through the engine and radiator. A broken or cracked impeller can cause the coolant to leak. If your water pump is failing, you may also notice overheating or strange noises coming from the engine.

• Worn-out hoses: Hoses that carry the coolant can sometimes become brittle, bulge, or crack. Look out for signs, including soft spots or a swollen appearance. If you suspect worn-out hoses, it’s essential to replace them as soon as possible.

• Faulty head gasket: A damaged or worn-out head gasket can cause antifreeze to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in thick white smoke emanating from the exhaust. If you notice this sign, you should head to a mechanic immediately.

• Loose or damaged connections: A loose or damaged radiator cap, thermostat, or freeze plugs can cause the coolant to leak. Ensure all connections are secure.

Prevention tips:

• Regularly check your coolant levels and have your cooling system serviced by a professional mechanic.

• Keep an eye on the temperature gauge, and if it’s constantly running above normal, you may have cooling system problems.

• Use quality coolant for your vehicle.

• Replace your vehicle’s components at the recommended intervals, including hoses, belts, and water pumps.

Coolant leaks in vehicles can be caused by a range of issues, such as damaged radiators, broken water pumps, corroded hoses, and faulty head gaskets. The best way to avoid these issues is regular maintenance and servicing from a qualified mechanic. If you suspect your car has a coolant leak, it’s essential to address the problem as quickly as possible to prevent engine damage or even engine failures. We hope this guide has been helpful in identifying the potential causes of coolant leaks and how to prevent them.

Drive Belts Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Why is My Car Leaking Oil?

A question asked a lot is “Why Is My Car Leaking Oil”. As a car owner, there is nothing more frustrating than seeing a large puddle of oil under your car. It doesn’t take long to mess up your driveway when your Engine is Leaking Oil.

Why Is My Car Leaking Oil Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Engine Oil Leaks Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

While it can be very tempting to ignore this issue, doing so could lead to major problems in the future. We tend to see Oil Leaks more on older vehicles with high mileage. The leaking will occur when Engine Gaskets or Seals become hardened and allow oil to leak out. The rubber gaskets and seals harden and crack over time.  Hot Temperatures, age, and extreme pressure can cause this to occur.

The best approach is to have an Auto Repair Shop check this. They can raise your vehicle up on a lift and perform a full Engine Leak Diagnostic. The Mechanic will inspect the engine for leaks. This can include washing the engine and adding a fluorescent Dye to the oil. This helps the Mechanic pinpoint where the leak is coming from.

A big thing to consider is whether the leak is major or minor. A minor oil leak may not have to be fixed right away but watched over time. A major oil leak needs correcting, so the engine does not run low on oil. The Auto Repair Shop can help with whether the leak warrants repairing or not.

If you are noticing puddles under your car, contact an Auto Repair Shop Near You. Let them perform an Engine Leak Test to access if this is a major or minor leaking problem.

Engine Gaskets

Engine Rear Main Seal Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor at Cobb Tire and Auto Repair

Why won’t my car start? Charging System Issues…

Your car may be your lifeline, getting you to work, to the grocery store, or to the gym. So, when it doesn’t start, it’s a big inconvenience. While there are several reasons why a car won’t start, there’s one common culprit that can cause this problem – a failing charging system. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why your car won’t start, what causes this issue, and how you can fix it. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Battery Light Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Battery Issues

The battery is one of the critical components of the charging system. It is essential to start the engine, and it also powers the various electrical systems in your car when the engine is off. If the battery is dead or weak, your car won’t start. A dead battery can be due to several reasons, such as leaving your car lights on, a damaged charging system, or an old battery that needs replacement. If your car won’t start, jump-starting it may bring the temporary solution. However, to fix the bigger problem, you’ll need to address the underlying battery issue.

Alternator Issues

The alternator is the component that charges the battery when the engine is running. If the alternator fails, the battery won’t recharge, and it will eventually die out. When a failing alternator is the cause of your car’s starting problem, it can manifest through other unusual symptoms, too. For example, you might notice that your car’s headlights and interior lights are dimmer than usual, or your dashboard lights become dim or flicker when you drive at low RPM. If you observe any of these issues, have your car’s charging system inspected and fixed by a trusted mechanic.

Starter Motor Issues

The starter motor is responsible for cranking your car’s engine. If the starter motor is faulty, your car won’t start. A failing starter motor can cause a clicking noise or no noise at all when you turn the ignition key. If your car exhibits this symptom, check your car’s battery first. Usually, a weak battery can lead to a failing starter. However, if the battery is not the issue, your starter may need repair or replacement.

Why does my battery keep dying Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC

Loose or Corroded Cables

The cables that connect the battery to the alternator and starter motor can also cause starting issues if they are loose or corroded. Corrosion builds up on the connection points and makes it harder for the charge to flow between components. This issue occurs more often in older batteries. If the battery appears good, and the alternator and starter motor work as they should, have an expert auto technician inspect your car’s battery cables.

Belt Issues

The charging system and other engine components rely on a serpentine belt. When this belt becomes loose or breaks, the alternator and other components may not function correctly, leading to starting problems. Inspecting the belt for cracks or frayed edges and ensuring it has the appropriate tension is an easy yet essential step to prevent starting issues. Your car’s charging system plays a critical role in starting your vehicle. Knowing what to look for and how to fix various problems can save you time and money in the future. Additionally, preventing these problems can be achieved with regular checks on your charging system components such as the battery, alternator, starter motor, cables, and serpentine belt. If you can’t diagnose the problem yourself, seek out your trusted auto repair center for help. With proper maintenance, you can keep your car’s charging system healthy, ensuring you always reach your destination safely and on time.

Why Wont My Car Start Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Why is My Car Not Starting?

Let’s narrow it down.  There are two scenarios to this question. Scenario 1 is when the engine cranks over but will not start up and run. This is when you turn the ignition key and hear the engine turning over but it will not crank up and run on its own.  Scenario 2 is when you turn the ignition key, and nothing happens.  Everything is still.  The engine does not crank over at all.

Ignition System Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Why is My Car Not Starting Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Scenario 1:  The Engine Cranks but will not fire up and run.  If this occurs, the Ignition Signal, the Battery, and the Starter are all working fine.  This problem is more complex.  The Starting System is ok, but the engine is not getting proper fuel or ignition to keep it running.  For the engine to crank up and begin running, combustion must occur. Combustion happens when fuel mixes with air, and ignition spark from the spark plugs ignites the mixture.  The Onboard Computer controls this.  When the computer is ready to run the engine, it sends a signal to the Fuel Injectors to pump fuel into the motor.  It also sends the signal to the Ignition Coils to fire the spark.  Now the engine will run.  To Trouble Shoot this, a Mechanic will need Computer Test Equipment, Pressure Gauges, and Volt Meters. Because of the time involved, this can get expensive.

Spark Plug Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Scenario 2:  The engine will not crank over.  Nothing happens when the key is turned.  This is a cranking problem.  This fix is easier than Scenario 1.  The Mechanic will begin by testing the Battery Voltage.  If the Battery tests good, then the next step is Testing to see if the signal from the Ignition Switch is present.  If so, then the next step is Testing the Starter Motor.  One of those three components will usually be the cause for the engine not starting.  If those three items are all ok, then the final step is to get deep into an issue with the wiring harness. Trouble Shooting this problem is allot easier and less expensive.

Starter Motor Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Why is my engine running rough Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Sometimes this can be a lot like putting together a puzzle. All the pieces fit, and each tool has a purpose. Let’s go over this in steps.

How do I Change My Spare Tire Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Spare Tire Jack Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

1. Make sure your vehicle is on stable ground. When your tire is flat, you need to park on concrete or asphalt. If you are on soft ground, you will need to drive your vehicle until you find hard ground. Take it slow until you get there. It is too unsafe to jack your vehicle on soft ground, dirt, or gravel.

2. Retrieve the Spare Tire and all tools to do the job.

Removing the Wheel Center Cap Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Spare Tire Tools Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

3. Loosen the Lug Nuts. Don’t unscrew them totally. A half turn will do. You may need to step on the Lug Wrench with your foot to loosen the nuts.

Lug Nut Loosening Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

4. Set the Jack and Raise the Tire off the ground. Setting the Jack can be tricky. If you have no experience doing this, go to the Owners Manuel and read the section about this.

5. Now totally remove the Lug nuts. Never have your feet or legs under the vehicle or tire. Stand clear while performing this task. Once the lug nuts are off, remove the flat tire and set it to the side.

6. Make sure the Spare Tire has a full amount of air in it and install it on the Vehicle. It’s a good habit to check the air pressure in your spare tire once every few months. If your vehicle is at an Auto Repair Shop, they should be doing this for you.

Spare Tire Stored Under Truck Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

7. Snug the lug nuts as best that you can while the tire is still off the ground.

8. Lower the jack so the tire is on the ground.

9. Tighten the lug nuts. Step on the lug wrench with your foot to insure they are all very tight.

10. Put the tools and the flat tire in the trunk and head to a Tire Shop Near You. The Mechanic will Repair or Replace the Flat Tire and put all the puzzle pieces back together.

I hope this helps the next time your Low Tire light comes on and you find yourself with a flat tire on the side of the road.

Spare Tire Under Car Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615.

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

We’ve all been there: you bring your vehicle into an Auto Repair Shop for a seemingly simple repair job, only to be told that it’s going to take much longer than expected.  You may find yourself wondering, “What’s taking so long?”  One common reason for delays in Car Repair is the availability of parts.  In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the parts availability issue and what you can do to minimize the delay.

First, it’s important to understand that Auto Parts availability can be a real issue.  Cars are complex machines made up of many different parts, and it’s not always easy to find the exact replacement part needed for a repair.  This is especially true for older or rare cars, where replacement parts may no longer be in production or difficult to source.  In these cases, Mechanics may need to search for the necessary parts online or from third-party suppliers, which can take time.

EGR Valve Replacement Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Another factor that can contribute to parts delays is the location of the Repair Shop.  If a shop is located in a remote or rural area, it may be more difficult for them to obtain the necessary parts quickly.  On the other hand, Auto Repair Shops in urban areas may have better access to a wider range of Parts Suppliers, however with employee shortages and shipping issues, obtaining them may not be any more convenient.

Of course, it’s not always the parts availability that’s causing the delay.  Sometimes, Mechanics uncover additional problems during the repair process that need to be addressed before the original issue can be fixed.  This can be frustrating for customers who are expecting a quick fix, but it’s important to remember that safety should always come first.  If a Mechanic identifies a safety issue, they are obligated to fix it before releasing the vehicle back to its owner.

Ignition Coil Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Another tip is to work with a reputable Repair Shop that has established relationships with Parts Suppliers.  If a shop has a good reputation and strong relationships with suppliers, they may be able to get the necessary parts more quickly than other shops that don’t have these connections.  Finally, be patient.  While it can be frustrating to wait for a repair, it’s important to give the Mechanic the necessary time to do the job right.  Rushing the work can lead to mistakes and potentially unsafe conditions down the road.

Brakes Grinding Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Parts availability is a common reason for delays in Car Repairs, but it’s important to understand that getting the job done right takes time.  Cars are complex machines, and Auto Mechanics need to take the necessary steps to ensure they’re safe and in proper working order before releasing them back to their owners.  The best things you can do to minimize delays are to provide as much information as possible about your car, work with a reputable repair shop, and be patient.  With these steps, you’ll be back on the road in no time!

Engine Gaskets

Mechanic in Greenville 29615 Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Dash Board Glove Box Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Car Glove Box Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Have you ever wondered if you could handle a Cabin Filter Replacement yourself?  It’s not as difficult as you may think. most Cabin Filters are behind the glove box.  To gain access to the filter, the Glove Box will need removing out of the way.  To start the process, all the belongings need removing from the Glove Box.  Next, the side retaining clips will need unclipping.  Sometimes you can pinch inward on the sides to clear the Glove Box Catch.  Once done, the Glove box can be removed or pivoted down and out of the way.  Next, locate the Cabin Filter plastic cover and unclip it from the filter box.  Next pull out the Cabin Filter, being careful to keep the trash from dropping down into the HVAC box.  Next, discard the old filter and install the new one.  The filter Assembly will have arrows pointing downward.  Slide the filter in and make sure the arrow is pointing down.  The arrow shows the direction of the air flow.  Once the filter is seated, snap the filter cover back on and begin resetting the Glove Box back into the dash.  If you don’t see a filter box behind the glove box, it may not have one. Sometimes the filter location is behind the center of the dash.  If this is the case, contact an Auto Repair Shop.  Your filter is more difficult than most and an Auto Mechanic will know how to gain access to it.

Glove Box Clip Removal Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Glove Box Removal Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor at Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

What are the Benefits of an Air Quality Service

Taking care of your vehicle is a critical part of car ownership. Routine maintenance is essential to ensure that your vehicle is operating correctly and remains safe while on the road. One of the most commonly overlooked services for vehicles is an air quality service. You might be wondering, what exactly is an air quality service, and is it something you really need? In this blog post, we will dive into these questions and explain why an air quality service should be a part of your car’s regular maintenance.

Smelling an Odor From AC Vents Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Air quality, as the name suggests, deals with the air flowing through your vehicle. An air quality service is the process of cleaning, refreshing, and conditioning the air that is pumped into your car’s cabin. This service often includes replacing the cabin air filter, cleaning the air intake system, and checking the overall condition of your vehicle’s HVAC system. The cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, and other airborne pollutants, preventing them from entering your vehicle’s interior. Over time, the filter gets clogged, reducing air flow and negatively impacting air quality.

If you have allergies or other respiratory issues, a dirty cabin air filter can be especially problematic for you. Moreover, it can also affect the efficiency of the heating and air conditioning system of your car. By regularly replacing the cabin filter and cleaning the air intake system, your vehicle’s HVAC system can function as it should, preventing premature wear, and increasing fuel efficiency.

HVAC Air Quality Service Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

A well-maintained air quality system not only keeps you healthy but also keeps your vehicle healthy. When you neglect the air quality system of your car, caked-on dirt and debris can accumulate on the AC evaporator, which prevents the system from removing moisture, eventually leading to damp or even moldy air. This, in turn, can spread an unpleasant odor within your car, making it an unpleasant environment to ride in. A properly maintained air quality system can also help you avoid costly repairs to your AC system in the future.

Air Conditioning Odor Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Routine maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle, and an air quality service should be a part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance. A clean and efficient air quality system not only keeps you and your passengers healthy, but it also improves fuel efficiency and prevents costly repairs in the future. So, if you’re not sure about the last time you had your cabin air filter replaced and your air intake system cleaned, then it’s time to schedule an air quality service appointment with a trusted mechanic. Your car and your health will thank you for it!

Fresh Air HVAC Service Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615

One thing that bothers me about my car is hearing a high pitch squealing noise when I turn the Steering Wheel.  Noises can be an indication of mechanical problems.  We deal with a lot of noise issues. Sometimes it requires an Auto Repair Mechanic spending time to Diagnose this problem.

Why Does My Car Squeak Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

There are many reasons for Squeaking Noises.  Let’s go over the most common ones.  If the noise is occurring when turning the Steering Wheel, the problem may be with the steering System.  The Steering System includes the Power Steering Pump, the Steering Rack and Pinion, and the Steering Column. The Chassis and the Suspension can also come into play here.

Why Does My Car Squeak When I Drive Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

We start the Diagnostic Procedure by first Test Driving the car. We want to be sure that we can recreate the noise consistently.  The next step is to recreate the noise in our Auto Repair Shop.  Once we hear the noise in the shop, we can then use our Shop Testing Tools to isolate the noise and pin it down.  Sometimes this requires several Technicians and everyone’s help.  A very quiet Service Shop is also needed to help with the Noise Diagnosis.  A lot of times we will shut the shop down to make the area as quiet as possible. While we are hearing the squeak from the car, our Technicians will now be able to find the noise. We then make our recommendation to Repair the Car and fix the noise.

Chassis and Suspension Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Most of the time, we find the cause of the noise to be at the Chassis or the Suspension. Worn out Ball Joints, faulty Control Arm Bushings, and Sway Bar Links, are usually the cause. Worn out Suspension Struts can also be the problem. Replacing these worn components and resetting the Alignment will rid your car of the annoying squeak.

GM Strut Replacement Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor at Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

We’ve all heard the rumors about rodents chewing through Wire Harnesses and Engine Hoses in cars.  It seems like an urban legend, right? Unfortunately, it’s not.  Rodents, especially mice and rats, love to take up residence in warm, cozy places like your Car’s Engine Compartment. And once they’re in there, they can wreak havoc on your Vehicle’s essential components.  In this blog post, we’ll explore the truth about rodents and your Car, and provide you with helpful tips on how to prevent them from getting into your Engine Compartment in the first place.

Why do rodents like Engine Compartments? Rodents are notorious for seeking out spaces that make them feel safe and secure.  Engine Compartments are perfect for them because they provide shelter from predators and harsh weather conditions.  Additionally, the warmth generated by the Engine can be very appealing to rodents, especially during the colder months.  Once inside, rodents will often begin to chew on anything they can find, including the Wires and Engine Hoses, which they use for nesting material.

How common is Engine Compartment damage from rodents? It’s more common than you might think.  According to a survey conducted by the National Pest Management Association, 29% of Americans have had rodent damage to their Vehicles.  This type of damage can be extensive and costly, with repairs often amounting to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.  Additionally, rodents can cause safety issues if they chew through important Electrical and Brake Components.

How can you prevent rodents from getting into your Engine Compartment? There are a number of things you can do to make it harder for rodents to enter your Engine Compartment. Here are a few tips: Park in well-lit areas. Rodents tend to avoid well-lit areas where they’re more likely to be seen by predators. Use a rodent repellent. You can find a number of different types of rodent repellents on the market, including sprays, granules, moth balls, and electronic devices. Keep your garage clean and clutter-free. Rodents love dark, cluttered spaces, so keeping your garage clean and organized can go a long way in preventing them from entering your engine compartment.

Rodent Damage Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

What should you do if you suspect rodent damage? If you suspect that rodents have caused damage to your Vehicle, it’s important to take action as soon as possible.  Here are a few steps you can take: Contact a Professional Auto Repair Shop.  A Mechanic can help you assess the extent of the damage, do a thorough inspection of your Engine Compartment, look for any signs of damage or nesting material, and provide recommendations for the best course of action. Consider setting traps.  If you suspect that rodents are still present in your engine compartment, you may need to set traps to remove them.

In conclusion, it’s important to take steps to prevent rodents from entering your Engine Compartment.  By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can help protect your Vehicle from costly and potentially dangerous damage.  If you suspect that rodents have caused damage to your Car, don’t hesitate to seek help from a Professional Mechanic.  With a little bit of know-how and precaution, you can keep rodents at bay and ensure that your car stays in top shape.

Rodent Damage Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615