Engine issues can quickly escalate, making it important to get to the shop when you first notice evidence of trouble. At Performance Tire & Service, our local mechanics provide expert engine repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here’s a look at five common signs of an engine problem. Check Engine Light An illuminated check engine light can get triggered by a variety of issues, and it’s always best to promptly get to the shop for diagnostics. Common reasons that the check engine light comes on include problems with catalytic converters, MAF sensors, oxygen sensors, and spark plugs. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from your engine—such as knocking, tapping, squealing, or grinding—can indicate a variety of issues. These noises could be caused by anything from worn-out bearings to a failing water pump. If you hear any abnormal sounds while driving, it's important to have your engine inspected to minimize the risk of further damage. Fluid Leaks Fluid leaks under your vehicle should never be ignored. When it comes to your engine, oil and coolant leaks are especially concerning. Oil leaks can lead to insufficient lubrication and major damage to moving parts. Coolant leaks can cause overheating, which can result in very expensive engine problems. Discolored/Excessive Exhaust Smoke The color of your car's exhaust smoke can provide valuable clues about your engine's health. Blue smoke may suggest burning oil, white smoke could indicate coolant leaking into the combustion chamber, and black smoke might signal a rich fuel mixture. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to worsening engine damage. Overheating An overheating engine is a clear sign of trouble that requires immediate attention. If your temperature gauge spikes into the red zone or you notice steam coming from under the hood, pull over safely and turn off your engine to prevent further damage. Overheating can be caused by various issues, such as a coolant leak, a faulty thermostat, or a failing water pump. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can lead to severe damage, so it's crucial to address the problem promptly. Engine Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
With spring’s arrival, it’s all the more tempting to hit the open road. To help ensure a smooth and safe journey, it’s important that your vehicle is in top-notch condition. At Performance Tire & Service, we can get your car ready for your journey with expert auto maintenance in Forney, TX. Here’s a look at six important types of auto maintenance before a road trip. Oil Change Regular oil changes are vital for proper engine health and function. Before embarking on a road trip, it’s a good idea to start off with fresh oil, which optimally lubricates the engine and reduces friction and heat. Tire Inspection Properly inflated and well-maintained tires are crucial for a safe journey. The mechanic can inspect your tires for any signs of wear and tear, and ensure they are properly inflated according to the manufacturer's specifications. Also, rotating your tires at specified intervals helps distribute wear more evenly, promoting better traction and extending tire life. Brake System Check A well-functioning brake system is essential for the safety of everyone on the road. At our Forney auto shop, we can inspect the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels. Any signs of wear or deterioration should be addressed promptly to avoid potential issues during the road trip. Fluid Levels and Coolant Inspection Checking and topping up essential fluids is a fundamental part of auto maintenance. It’s important to inspect the levels of transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Adequate coolant levels are particularly important, especially for long road trips, as it helps regulate the engine temperature and prevents overheating. Check Battery/Charging System A reliable battery and charging system are critical for starting the vehicle and powering its electrical components. Before you leave, it’s best to get your battery tested so you can trust it not to fail and leave you stranded during your adventure. Check Lights and Wipers Visibility is key to safe driving, especially during adverse weather conditions. It’s smart to inspect all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Also, checking and replacing worn-out wiper blades helps to ensure clear visibility. Adequate lighting and functional wipers contribute significantly to the overall safety of the road trip. Auto Maintenance in Forney, TX For auto maintenance in Forney before your road trip, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
Your car's brakes are a critical safety feature, and their proper functioning is crucial for your well-being on the road. Ignoring signs of brake trouble can lead to serious consequences, jeopardizing your safety and that of others. When you first notice evidence of brake trouble, the mechanic should conduct an inspection. At Performance Tire & Service, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here are five signs of brake trouble. Squeaking or Grinding Noises In many instances, one of the first signs of brake trouble is unusual noises when you engage the pedal. Squeaking or grinding sounds can suggest worn-out brake pads or damaged rotors. Ignoring these noises may lead to further damage and compromise the braking efficiency. Vibrations If you feel vibrations when braking, it could indicate warped brake rotors. Warping occurs due to excessive heat buildup during braking, and addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure smooth braking. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal that sinks to the floor when pressed can be a sign of air in the brake lines. This can compromise the brake system's hydraulic efficiency, leading to reduced braking performance. With a soft brake pedal, leaking brake fluid is another potential culprit. A brake fluid leak creates a serious safety hazard and means you shouldn’t drive your car. Rather, you should get towed to the mechanic for the repairs. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced brake monitoring systems that trigger warning lights on the dashboard when an issue is detected. Ignoring these warning lights can be dangerous. If the ABS warning light illuminates, it's essential to have your brakes inspected promptly. This light could get triggered by issues like faulty wheel speed sensors and low brake fluid. Veering Veering could occur if corrosion causes a caliper to freeze up. This poses a serious safety hazard to you and other drivers. With this issue, you should get towed to the shop rather than drive there. Brake Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Your vehicle's cooling system plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal engine temperature and preventing overheating. A malfunctioning cooling system can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. This makes it important to alert the mechanic at the first sign of trouble. At Performance Tire & Service, our local mechanics provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here are four symptoms of cooling system trouble. Rising Temperature Gauge One of the primary indications of a cooling system problem is a rising temperature gauge on your dashboard. The temperature gauge provides a visual representation of your engine's operating temperature. If you notice the needle consistently moving towards the hot zone, it suggests an overheating engine. This may be due to issues such as a malfunctioning thermostat, a coolant leak, or a failing water pump. Coolant Leaks Coolant circulates through the engine to regulate temperature. If you see puddles or stains of brightly colored fluid (commonly green, orange, or pink) beneath your parked car, then a coolant leak may be present. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent overheating and engine damage. Steam or Smoke Under the Hood If your cooling system fails to regulate the engine temperature, coolant may evaporate and produce steam. Overheating can result from various issues, such as a malfunctioning radiator cap or a faulty thermostat. If steam/smoke is emerging from under your hood, find somewhere safe to park and shut off your engine. Then you can call the shop to explain exactly what’s going on and seek further guidance. Unusual Engine Noises Unusual noises coming from under the hood could indicate a cooling system problem. A failing water pump, for example, may produce a whining or grinding sound. Additionally, air trapped in the cooling system can lead to gurgling noises. Such noises should be promptly brought to the mechanic’s attention. Cooling System Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
It’s always best to get to the shop as soon as your car starts struggling to start. This will give you the best chance to resolve the issue before your engine won’t fire up at all and you find yourself stranded. At Performance Tire & Service, our local mechanics are experts at identifying and fixing problems that cause no-start. Here’s a look at five common reasons that cars won’t start up. Dead Battery A dead or weak battery is perhaps the most common reason for a non-starting car. As they age, batteries are more prone to losing their charge, especially in extreme weather conditions. If your car won’t start and you hear a clicking noise, your battery may be the culprit. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine when you turn the key. A malfunctioning starter can result in a clicking sound or no sound at all when you try to start the car. If your battery is in good condition, but the car still won't start, the starter motor may need attention. Fuel System Issues Problems within the fuel system often prevent vehicles from starting. A clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump are common issues. If your car sputters while driving, it's worth checking the fuel system for developing problems. Faulty Alternator The alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the battery charged while the engine is running. If the alternator fails, your battery might not have enough power to start the car. Dimming headlights and warning lights on the dashboard can be indications of alternator problems. Starter Solenoid Issues The starter solenoid is responsible for transmitting electrical current to the starter motor. If it fails, your car won't start, and you might hear a clicking noise. Auto Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
If your check engine light flashes on, it doesn’t automatically mean that your engine is on the verge of complete disaster. Still, you should get to the shop as soon as you can for computerized diagnostics. This way, the issue can be identified and resolved before it escalates and causes bigger problems. At Performance Tire & Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here are five common issues that trigger the check engine light. Bad Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, allowing the computer to adjust the fuel injection accordingly. If this sensor malfunctions, it can disrupt the air/fuel mixture, affecting engine performance and triggering the check engine light. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gasses, helping to regulate fuel injection and optimize fuel efficiency. When these sensors fail, it can lead to worsening gas mileage and increased emissions, prompting the check engine light to illuminate. Catalytic Converter Issues A failing catalytic converter can result in increased emissions and reduced engine efficiency. Signs of a faulty catalytic converter include worsening acceleration and a smell similar to rotten eggs. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap Though it might sound strange, a loose or faulty gas cap is a common culprit behind a check engine light. The gas cap helps to maintain pressure in the fuel system, and if it's not properly sealed, then it can trigger the light. Spark Plug and Ignition System Problems Worn-out or faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or spark plug wires can cause misfires and reduced engine performance. These issues can trigger the check engine light and should be addressed promptly to prevent further engine problems. Check Engine Light Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Your alternator plays a crucial role in your vehicle’s ability to reliably start up and cruise down the road. If your alternator isn’t working properly, then your battery’s power reserve could become exhausted, potentially leaving you stranded and needing help. By getting to the shop at the first sign of alternator trouble, you’ll give yourself the best chance to avoid such a situation. At Performance Tire & Service, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here are six warning signs of an alternator problem. Dashboard Warning Light If a dash light illuminates that reads GEN or ALT, then your alternator may not be working properly. This is often the first sign of an alternator problem. In some vehicles, this warning light turns on in the form of a little battery icon. Whenever a warning light comes on, you’ll want to figure out what is triggering it before the issue worsens. Dead Battery When you put a new battery in your car, it should work dependably for at least three years. But if it dies earlier (and not because you left your lights on), then alternator trouble could be brewing. Problems with Headlights When an alternator malfunctions, headlights could start dimming or flickering. This poses a significant safety concern, particularly if you have to drive at night on roads that aren’t lit up by street lamps. Issues with Electrical Accessories Modern vehicles are commonly equipped with computers that determine which electrical accessories should get their power reduced first when alternator trouble is detected. This saves power for the most crucial electrical functions. If an accessory such as power seats or power windows isn’t working correctly, this could be the reason. Stalling A failing alternator may fail to properly direct electricity to your spark plugs. Consequently, your engine could stall out. Belt Issue If you think there may be an issue with your alternator, you can pop your hood and do a quick visual inspection. If you see a belt that is cracking or poorly fitting, then you may have spotted the cause of your alternator trouble. Auto Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
Regular oil changes play a crucial role in keeping your engine optimally lubricated and in healthy condition. You can check your owner’s manual to see exactly what type of oil your vehicle requires and the mileage intervals at which it should be changed. At Performance Tire & Service, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Forney, TX area. We can also expertly complete your car’s other basic maintenance needs. Here are six benefits of following your oil change schedule. Proper Lubrication When you stay current with oil changes, it’s far more likely that your engine’s moving parts will remain sufficiently lubricated, which will provide-much needed protection from damage that can be caused by metal-on-metal contact. Regulate Engine Temperature Heat has to be redistributed from your combustion chamber for your engine temperature to remain at a healthy level. Heat will be redistributed more effectively if you’re driving with clean oil. Replace Oil Filter When you get a full-service oil change, it’ll include a new oil filter. This is an important part of the service because it’ll ensure you aren’t driving with a clogged filter that could prevent oil from effectively circulating through your engine. Get Rid of Engine Gunk When you fall behind on your oil change schedule, there’s a better chance that your oil will develop a mucky consistency because of accumulating pollutants. By getting to the shop for an oil change, this contaminated oil will be sent away and your engine will be refilled with fresh oil that is better for its health. Identify Developing Engine Issues It’s best to have an experienced mechanic change your oil. This way, a highly-trained set of eyes will be on your vehicle, which could result in the identification of an emerging engine problem that can then be addressed before it gets worse. Maximum Engine Power It’ll be easier for your engine to achieve maximum power if it’s operating with the right amount of fresh oil. With more power comes better efficiency, which may even provide you with an uptick in MPGs. Oil Change in Forney, TX When you need auto maintenance in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Transmission fluid provides fluid pressure, lubrication, cooling, and rust prevention. This makes it very important that you’re driving with the proper level of uncontaminated transmission fluid. If your transmission fluid gets too low, then serious problems could follow. At Performance Tire & Service, we provide expert transmission service in the greater Forney, TX area. If your car is struggling to properly get through the gears, our local mechanics can identify the problem and then promptly resolve it. Here are five warning signs of low transmission fluid. Slipping Gears If transmission fluid is low, then it may become difficult for your car to go into—and stay in—certain gears. In such a scenario, you no longer have complete control over your car’s patterns of acceleration, which could create a safety hazard. Rough Shifting When there’s an insufficient amount of transmission fluid, problems with shifting could occur, such as grinding. Delayed Shifting If you’re driving with low transmission fluid, then there might not be enough fluid pressure for gears to promptly change. This is a problem that you may encounter when trying to shift between reverse and a forward gear. Such a delay might last for two or three seconds. Transmission Fluid Leak If you see reddish-colored fluid on the ground where your car has been parked, then you may have a transmission fluid leak. If it’s transmission fluid, then you might notice a somewhat-sweet smell. If you suspect that your car is leaking transmission fluid, you’ll want to quickly alert the mechanic so you can hopefully avoid the leak causing major transmission trouble. Low Reading on Fluid Check By checking your transmission fluid on a monthly basis, you’re more likely to become aware when your transmission fluid gets low or starts burning. You’ll want to take action if you see a concerningly low reading on your transmission dipstick. Transmission Service in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
Automobiles have a number of different systems that work hard to keep you safe and comfortable. As a general rule, it’s always best to get to the shop when you first notice a sign of trouble with any of your car’s systems. This will give you the best chance to address the issue before it escalates and costs more to fix. At Performance Tire & Service, our local mechanics provide expert full-service auto repair in the greater Forney, TX area. Here’s a short overview of the main systems in an automobile. Engine Your engine is your car’s beating heart. Within it, there are many important parts, such as the camshaft, crankshaft, valves, cylinders, and more. Through your engine’s parts, power is created that is transferred to your wheels via the transmission. Transmission (& Driveline) Through the transmission and driveline, power is directed from the engine to the wheels. This system helps to ensure proper regulation of speed as gears are shifted. Fuel System When you fill up your tank, the gas needs to find its way to your combustion chamber. It does this with the assistance of the fuel pump and fuel filter. Fuel injectors then squirt the gas into the combustion chamber. Auto Electrical System Your vehicle has an extensive electrical system. Electricity is necessary for a variety of purposes, including starting your engine and operating your car’s electrical accessories, such as the radio. As your engine runs, the alternator creates electricity which is then stored in the battery. Braking System Your braking system includes the brake booster, brake master cylinder, brake lines, wheel cylinders, pads, and rotors. Your braking system plays a critical role in keeping you safe, so it’s important to visit the shop at the first sign of trouble, such as squealing or grinding. Exhaust System A healthy exhaust system safely routes dangerous fumes from your motor to your tailpipe. Your catalytic converter plays an important role in turning fumes into emissions that aren’t as harmful. Auto Repair in Forney, TX When you need auto repair in Forney and the surrounding area, contact Performance Tire & Service at (972) 441-5759 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!
