The function of the fuel filter is pretty self-explanatory: it filters your fuel. The fuel filter is in the fuel line somewhere between the fuel tank and the engine. Both gas and diesel vehicles use fuel filters. Generally speaking, there’s not a lot of dirt in our Kent WA auto fuel supply, but there is… Read more »
Posts Tagged: auto maintenance
The Timing Belt Story
What is a timing belt? A timing belt is a cogged rubber belt that connects the camshaft and crankshaft of an engine. The crankshaft is spun by the pistons via connecting rods, sort of like the crank on a bicycle is spun by your legs. The camshaft must open valves at certain points in the… Read more »
The Heat is On: Caring for Your Transmission
Does this sound like your driving habits? • Frequent stop-and-go • Driving in heavy traffic • Driving in dusty conditions • Driving on steep terrain This kind of driving takes its toll on transmissions. Yep… it’s trying to tell you something in transmission–speak, so listen up! Here are some audio clues that your transmission may… Read more »
Downshift When Going Down Hills
Once on a trip to Maui, we took a day trip to the Haleakala Volcano. This is a road that goes from Sea level to over 10,000 feet in about 27 miles, with plenty of pedaling on and off the brakes. I noticed several signs that suggested to downshift instead of using my brakes and I… Read more »
Are You a Car Repair Detective?
One might say the most challenging part of being an automotive service technician at Central Avenue Automotive in Kent is diagnosing a car repair problem before it can be fixed. Cars are made up of a bunch of complex systems. There can typically be a number of reasons for any given symptom, so it’s challenging to… Read more »
Getting Your Coolant System Checked
The coolant system is a vital part of your vehicle. It is also the second most common cause for vehicle failures. Even though coolant system failure is fairly common, it is easy to prevent. The most recognizable part of the coolant system is the radiator. It is connected to the engine with hoses and is… Read more »
What Are Service Center Standards?
All pilots have checklists for every aspect of flying. They always use their checklists, even if they only have two steps on them. They do this simply because a checklist is a great way to not forget important steps. It is also how you can assure a predictable outcome. That is why automotive shops have… Read more »
Is it Time to Replace the Rotors and Calipers?
WHY DO I NEED TO REPLACE ROTORS AND CALIPERS WITH MY BRAKES AND BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENT? Many of our customers assume that when the bring their vehicle in to Central Avenue Automotive for brake service and brake pad replacement that you can just resurface the rotors and install new pads. In some cases, this is… Read more »
Maintaining Your High Mileage Vehicle
Before the recession hit, the median age for cars in the Kent WA area was over nine years, and two-thirds boasted over 75,000 miles. At Central Avenue Automotive, we hear reports that those numbers continue to rise. Many people in the area are keeping their vehicles longer than ever before. The economy has influenced that,… Read more »
Treat Your Power Steering Right
Virtually all vehicles come with power steering so many car owners have never driven a car or truck without it. Power steering assists you when you turn your SUV steering wheel. Without it, it would be very hard to steer. Now this power assist comes in a couple of forms. In recent years, a lot… Read more »
