The Check Engine light — sometimes called the Service Engine Soon light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) — is the computer’s way of communicating with you. When the light comes on, it’s telling you it noticed a problem with the way the car’s operating. That problem may be something as [...]
That depends: How much do you like walking? Because timing belts don’t give a lot of warning: One minute they’re working fine and the next your car isn’t running. There’s no in between. What’s more, some car engines don’t have enough clearance between the pistons and the valves. So if [...]
Yes, it is still necessary to have your car's antifreeze flushed. Although the procedure isn’t the same as it was years ago. That’s because it’s illegal — and irresponsible — to simply flush antifreeze out into public drain sewers. Regular Coolant Flushes Today’s coolant flush is more about draining the [...]
This is a device that many manufacturers began adding to their cars’ A/C and heating systems to filter the air coming into your car’s passenger compartment. It’s designed to remove the dust and soot, and provide you with fresh air to breathe. While a clogged cabin filter won’t affect the [...]
Hard shifting in cold weather can often be corrected simply by replacing the transmission fluid with a lighter oil. In some cases you may have to use different oil in the summer and winter to provide adequate protection while enabling it the transmission shift properly. Transmission Services Your local Cottman [...]
Maybe not; it could be something as simple as low power steering fluid. A few ounces of fluid and the noise may go away. On the other hand, where did the fluid go? There could be a leak in the power steering system. Or maybe it’s not being caused by [...]
There are a few conditions that could indicate your car’s clutch is worn out: One is a clutch chatter when accelerating from a stop. Another is a slip when accelerating; you’ll hear the engine rev up but the car won’t be moving any faster. Transmission Problem Services Of course, these [...]
While there are a few different possibilities for the noise you’re describing, the most likely cause is a worn front axle bearing. Turning the wheel loads the bearing, so that’s when it usually makes noise. Axle Repair Your local Cottman center can check your car and pinpoint the exact cause [...]
What you’re probably hearing with that clicking sound is a worn out Constant Velocity joint, or CV-joint. And, while it’s not serious right now, if ignored it could eventually fail entirely and leave you stranded. CV Joint Service Your local Cottman center will be happy to check your car’s CV-joints, [...]
