Posted on 8/27/2018
Question:My Check Engine light is on and my boyfriend thinks he can get the code read and know what part to replace to fix my vehicle. I say it's not that. Who's right? Bret's Autoworks Answer: Good news – you are! Just look at it logically: there are hundreds of things that can go wrong with your vehicle. Some are simple and some are quite complicated. Let's take a step back. Over 80% of engine functions are computer controlled. The computer receives information from dozens of sensors. When a sensor reading is out of range, a trouble code is entered in the computer and the Check Engine light is illuminated. It's a common misconception by Gardner and Olathe drivers that the trouble code will tell you exactly what is wrong. For any given trouble code, there is any number of faults that would trigger the code. For example, a code indicating a misfire ... read more
Posted on 8/14/2018
Today's vehicles have more electrical components and do-dads than ever before. This really strains your vehicle's electrical system, making it hard for the battery to keep up. Think about it: electric seats, seat heaters, power locks, windows, and sunroofs. And then vehicles have all the power outlets for our cell phones, computers, and DVD players. We also have navigation systems and powerful stereos. Plus there are all the engine and transmission computers, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, sensors and on and on. Even the security system is running off the battery while the vehicle is turned off. And of course, summer heat in KS can take a real toll on battery life. Fortunately, battery technology has given us resilient batteries that are able to meet these strenuous requirements. But the fact is; batteries just wear out over time. Eventually, every battery gets to the point where it cannot hold ... read more