Auto Repair Troubleshooting Guide from Aamco SoCal

Batteries

These are common indications that you may need a new battery or battery connections. If you experience any of these problems, schedule an appointment with your local AAMCO Retailer.

* Your vehicle won't start.
* The vehicle is silent when you turn the key in the ignition.
* Your vehicle makes a clicking noise but won't start.
* The battery keeps running down.
* The battery seems weak and fails to crank your engine normally.

Brakes
Here are some common signs that you should take your vehicle to your local AAMCO Retailer for brake service.

* Your vehicle pulls to one side when you apply the brakes.
* The brake pedal sinks to the floor when pressure is maintained.
* You hear or feel a scraping or grinding sensation during braking.
* You hear a high-pitched, piercing metallic sound while the vehicle is in motion.
* The "brake" light on the instrument panel lights up.

Engine

If your vehicle has any of the following symptoms, our technicians at AAMCO can properly diagnosis engine problems and make the proper repairs.

* Difficulty starting the vehicle or engine
* The "check engine" light on the instrument panel lights up
* Rough idling or stalling
* Poor acceleration
* Poor fuel economy
* Excessive oil use (more than one quart between changes)
* Engine continues running after the key is removed
* Your vehicle cranks over but won't start

Fluids

If you notice stains, puddles or drops of fluid under your vehicle, check them immediately, and call your nearest AAMCO Retailer.

* Yellowish green, pastel blue or fluorescent orange colors could indicate an overheated engine, or an antifreeze leak caused by a bad hose, faulty water pump or leaking radiator.
* Dark brown or black oily fluid usually means the engine is leaking oil. This could be caused by a bad seal or gasket.
* Red oily fluid indicates a transmission or power-steering fluid leak.
* Clear water isn't usually a problem. It's probably normal condensation from your vehicle's air conditioner.

Mufflers & Exhaust

Here are some signs that your vehicle may be experiencing muffler or exhaust problems. If you notice any of the following, schedule an appointment with your local AAMCO Retailer.

* You see blue smoke in your exhaust when you start your engine.
* You hear a loud, low-pitched rumbling.
* Your vehicle fails its emissions test.

Suspension Systems

Suspension problems can cause a vehicle to become hard to control. If you experience any of the following problems, make sure you schedule an appointment with your local AAMCO Retailer.

* You hit a bump and you notice your vehicle keeps bouncing for a while.
* It's more difficult to turn the steering wheel, or it feels like something is binding or dragging.
* The steering wheel moves too easily.
* Your vehicle pulls to one side while you're driving.
* You must constantly correct the direction of the car by turning the steering wheel when you're driving.
* Your steering wheel jumps or jerks when you're idling or driving slowly.
* Your steering wheel begins to vibrate.
* The steering wheel wobbles side-to-side when you're traveling at steady speeds.
* When you turn a corner, you hear a knocking, clunking and/or squeaking noise.
* When you turn the steering wheel all the way in one direction, you hear a whining or moaning sound.

Tires

Keep an eye out for these common signs that you may need new tires or service. If your vehicle exhibits any of these symptoms, take it to your local AAMCO Retailer.

* When driving, your car pulls to one side or the other.
* You notice rhythmic vibrations.
* Your tires are wearing unevenly.
* Your tires won't maintain proper air pressure.