How Do You Detect O2 Sensor Failure in Volkswagen

Posted on | 23 Jul 2018 By Anita Gaal

The Volkswagen has always been and will always be a reliable car. Whether you are driving a new or older model, that statement is still true. Keeping up with the proper maintenance and care for your Volkswagen will have it running to its fullest capability at all times.

However, with that being said, there may still come times when you feel as if your Volkswagen is trying to tell you something and that something is not good. This is definitely true when the O2 sensor starts to fail. Knowing what the O2 sensor is in your Volkswagen and the signs of failure will allow you to promptly bring it in to Euro Automotive for a proper repair.

What is the O2 Sensor?

The oxygen (O2) sensor is located in the exhaust system. The purpose of the O2 sensor is to measure the oxygen levels that are in the exhaust gases as they are leaving the engine. Once the O2 sensor has a read of the levels, it sends this information to the Powertrain Control Module. The Powertrain Control Module then is able to determine what the correct air to fuel ratio is best for the engine at its current state.

The O2 sensor is also in charge of keeping the fuel injector and engine timing working efficiently. When all these functions are working together as they should, the emissions will also be properly controlled. So if there is a failure in the O2 sensor then the engine performance will be affected as well as the emissions that are going out into the environment.

Signs of O2 Sensor Failure in Your Volkswagen

Knowing the signs of O2 sensor failure is beneficial both to you and your Volkswagen. You want to feel safe as you are driving and want your car to last as long as it can. These things are obtainable when you know the signs of O2 sensor failure and act on them immediately.

Check Engine Light Comes On

The check engine light is going to be the first indicator that you could be having O2 sensor failure. This is because the O2 sensor is directly related to the performance of the engine. If the O2 sensor is failing, that means that there could be an improper ratio of air and fuel going into the engine. Although there could be other reasons for the check engine light to come on, bringing your car in immediately once the light comes on can help prevent any further damage of any other part in the engine.

Reduced Gas Mileage

Due to the fact that the O2 sensor is related to the air to fuel ratio required for optimal engine performance, any failure in the sensor will throw this ratio off. A failure in the O2 sensor will also affect the fuel-delivery and the fuel-combustion systems. Both of these systems should be working properly in order for the gas mileage to be maintained at the level that you are used to.

You will be able to tell if your gas mileage is being affected in your Volkswagen is you find yourself making more and more trips to the gas station. Once you realize this, you might consider start keeping a log so you will know for sure that your gas mileage is being negatively affected.

Engine Misfires or Rough Idles

The O2 sensor is connected to the proper functioning of the engine. So if the sensor has failed, then the air to fuel ratio is no longer being controlled. The engine will then no longer be able to run in a capacity that is most efficient. You may notice that the engine is misfiring due to the fact that the O2 sensor is no longer able to help regulate the timing of the engine. The O2 sensor failure will also cause your engine to run very rough when the engine is idling.

Take Your Volkswagen to a Trusted Company

Euro Automotive is located in Dallas, TX and is easily accessible from the surrounding areas of Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth. Euro Automotive has been in the car service and repair industry for over 18 years. We have properly trained and certified service technicians that will run a careful diagnostic that will reveal the exact issues your Volkswagen is experiencing. This information will always be properly communicated with you to ensure the trust is always in place. Once the O2 sensor failure is diagnosed, our technicians will provide quick, accurate repairs to keep you moving in your busy life.

Signs of a Clogged Catalytic Converter in an Audi

Posted on | 8 Jul 2018 By Anita Gaal

What is a catalytic converter’s main function?

Found on the under side of the car, the catalytic converter plays an important function in your Audi’s performance; however, it is highly susceptible to clogs as well as external damage from accidents, road imperfections, or driving a little too quickly over speed bumps. As a part of your car’s exhaust system, the catalytic converter is responsible for shifting the chemical makeup of your car’s exhaust emissions before it is released into the atmosphere. In an effort to reduce harmful gas emissions, catalytic converters or similar devices are required in all cars. Catalytic converters are designed to last the life of your vehicle; unfortunately, damage and failure can still occur. When your catalytic converter becomes damaged or fails, it can cause your car to exhibit particular symptoms that you should be aware of and follow up on with your Audi specialist.

Signs that your Audi’s catalytic converter is failing

Because the catalytic converter has such a huge hand in the exhaust system, a lot of the symptoms drivers tend to experience when a clog or other damages occur are related to exhaust and emissions problems. These are the top most common symptoms related to catalytic converter failure:

Engine misfiring

While not necessarily a direct symptom of a clogged catalytic converter, engine misfiring can be a comorbid symptom that can eventually lead to an overheating converter. Engine misfiring is problematic and unsafe, and should be addressed by a professional right away.

Emissions problems

A clogged or failed catalytic converter will not be able to effectively eliminate the harmful gasses from your vehicle’s emissions, often leading to failed emissions tests or chemical-like smells coming from your exhaust.

Performance changes

Your engine’s air intake and exhaust system work effectively together to draw air in and the push it out. When the catalytic converter becomes clogged or fails, it can lead to a pressure buildup in the system which makes it difficult for your intake and exhaust system to work effectively. This can lead to significant changes in your Audi’s performance, including rough acceleration.

Lowered fuel efficiency

When the flow of the air through the engine and out through the exhaust becomes impeded by a clogged or damaged converter, it can lead to diminished fuel efficiency. This is concerning for drivers, as most Audi vehicles have excellent fuel economy.

Rattling sounds

A rattling sound coming from the catalytic converter may mean the difference between a clog and damage. A clog will likely be able to be fixed, but depending on the extend of damage accrued, the converter may need to be replaced all together.

Check-engine light is on

If your check-engine comes on for any reason, it is critical to bring it to an Audi specialist right away to read the trouble codes and properly diagnose the problem. Your check-engine light can illuminate for a number of reasons, and they’re all important to treat with efficiency; however, if the emissions system has encountered a clog in the converter, the problem can worsen quickly.

How to ensure your catalytic converter remains intact

As a responsible car owner, there are a few things you can do for your Audi to make sure the catalytic converter remains intact in the coming years. Here are a few simple guidelines to follow for the best performance results:

• Use caution while driving over bumps and dips
• Follow up with concerning symptoms right away
• Follow your car’s routine maintenance plan
• Schedule routine inspections with your Audi specialist

Here at Euro Automotive, we take pride in our ability to provide our Audi clients with accurate, honest diagnoses in a short time frame. The residents of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, have been bringing their cars to us for over 18 years as the number one, independent dealership alternative. Catalytic converter issues can cause drivers a lot of hassle and money if the problem isn’t diagnosed properly and quickly. If you’ve recently experienced any of the above-mentioned symptoms of catalytic converter clogs or failure, it is imperative to have your Audi looked at right away by a specialist. To schedule a diagnostic appointment with us, please contact us right away.

* Audi 6 Series 4 image credit goes to: stonena7.