Red Rock Auto Center Blog

Without proper care, an engine can suffer from excessive wear and tear, leading to costly repairs or even failure. Keeping your engine in strong condition requires consistent maintenance and attention. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your engine in great health. Change the Oil and Filter Regularly Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, keeping its moving parts lubricated and preventing excessive wear. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, which can lead to engine damage if not changed regularly. Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals, and always use the correct type of oil for your engine. Also, replacing the oil filter with each oil change helps ensure clean oil circulates through the system. Keep an Eye on the Cooling System An overheating engine can lead to severe damage, including a blown head gasket or a warped cylinder head. Your engine’s cooling system—which includes the radiator, water pump, and coolant—plays a vital role in regulating temperature. Regularly check coolant levels (don’t open cap until after engine has cooled down) and inspect hoses for leaks or cracks. Flushing the cooling system as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer helps maintain optimal performance. Replace Air and Fuel Filters as Needed Your engine needs clean air and fuel to run efficiently. The air filter prevents dust and debris from entering the engine, while the fuel filter helps keep contaminants out of the fuel system. Over time, these filters become clogged, reducing engine efficiency and performance. Inspect and replace them as needed to ensure your engine is getting the clean air and fuel it requires. A well-maintained filtration system can improve fuel-economy and overall engine health. Pay Attention to Warning Signs of Trouble Strange noises, rough idling, reduced fuel-efficiency, and the check engine light are all signs that something may be wrong with your engine. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more significant issues. If you notice any unusual behavior, have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic as soon as possible. Addressing minor problems early can often prevent more expensive repairs. Mechanic in Sedona, AZ When you need auto repair or maintenance in Sedona and the surrounding area, contact Red Rock Auto Center at (928) 451-7431. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s cooling system plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating. If it starts to fail, the consequences can be severe, leading to costly repairs or even engine damage. At Red Rock Auto Center, our local mechanics provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Sedona area. Here are six signs of a cooling system issue that you shouldn’t ignore. Rising Temperature Gauge One of the most common signs of a cooling system problem is a rising temperature gauge. If your dashboard temperature gauge moves into the red zone, it’s a clear indication that your engine is overheating. This can happen due to issues like low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing radiator. Visible Coolant Leaks Bright green, pink, or orange (your coolant might be a different color) puddles under your car are a serious sign of a coolant leak. Leaks can occur from damaged hoses, a cracked radiator, or a faulty water pump. Ignoring these leaks can greatly affect the cooling system’s efficiency and also harm the environment. Low Coolant Levels If you find yourself constantly topping off the coolant, there may be a hidden leak or another issue, such as a damaged head gasket. Persistent low coolant levels should prompt an inspection by a professional. Keep in mind that you should only check/add coolant after your engine has cooled off. Engine Overheating When the cooling system fails, your engine can overheat, potentially leading to severe damage. Overheating may cause steam to rise from under the hood or even result in a complete breakdown. Immediate attention is necessary to prevent further harm. Sweet or Burnt Smell A sweet, syrupy smell often indicates a coolant leak. Also, a burnt smell could signal overheating or a malfunctioning component like the water pump. Both odors warrant immediate investigation. Discolored or Contaminated Coolant Coolant should appear bright and clean. If it looks rusty, murky, or contains debris, it could indicate corrosion or contamination in the system. Flushing the system and replacing the coolant can help prevent blockages and maintain efficiency. Cooling System Repair in Sedona When you need auto repair in Sedona and the surrounding area, contact Red Rock Auto Center at (928) 451-7431. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!