How to Deal with the Common Causes of Engine Oil Leaks in a Jaguar

Posted on | 5 Mar 2018 By Anita Gaal

If you drive a Jaguar, then you know how fortunate you are. Whether it’s the XJ, XF, XE, or F-Type, your Jaguar is one of the most well-known manufacturers and highly-desired vehicles in the automotive industry today. These luxury vehicles are known for their power, stamina, and luxury—and those can be hard to come by in one vehicle. That’s why, when your Jaguar begins to leak oil, it can be disheartening and downright upsetting.

While oil leaks are relatively common, they can sometimes be challenging to deal with. Depending on how quickly you’re losing oil, you might not notice the problem right away. Furthermore, if your automotive shop doesn’t specialize in Jaguar automotive care and repair work, then you might be handing your car over to a blind technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

Some of the Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Jaguars

Finding the cause of an oil leak is the most important order of business, and it could be due to any number of issues with any number of parts in your Jaguar. As a luxury vehicle owner, it’s important that you be familiar with some of the common causes of oil leaks in your Jaguar because how you will need to fix the issue will depend solely on where it’s coming from.

Worn-Out or Damaged Seals

Oil seals are designed to keep oil flowing through your engine freely without leaking through the various components. Most seals are made of durable materials; however, over time they begin to deteriorate. Replacing corroded or worn-out seals may seem insignificant to the overall performance of your Jaguar; however, their function is important—if oil leaks, then other engine components can become damaged and the oil can become contaminated with debris, thereby affecting all other parts internally.

Oil Pan Damage or Failure

One of the most common causes of oil leaks is a damaged oil pan. The reason for this is that the oil pan sits beneath your car and is susceptible to becoming punctured if you hit something or run over a piece of debris in the road. When your oil pan is damaged, it can cause oil to leak from the bottom of your car. The oil pan is one of the first places your trusted Jaguar automotive technician will check on your when diagnosing the cause of the oil leak.

Too Much Oil

While it’s essential to bring your car in for routine oil changes, if the oil change isn’t done properly it can lead to oil overspill. This occurs when oil is filled too full, or if the cap isn’t put back on properly. This can cause you to lose oil leak oil all over other engine components, potentially causing damage and smoke to come from your engine. If you aren’t sure how to replace your Jaguar’s oil yourself, it’s important not to attempt to do so—it could lead to expensive repairs.

What You Can Do to Prevent Oil Leaks

There are several things you can do to prevent oil leaks from occurring. Firstly, it’s critical to follow through with regular oil changes. Your Jaguar requires oil to perform its best, otherwise you’ll be missing out on its true potential. Routine oil changes can be followed via the information in your owner’s manual, but as a general rule of thumb people tend to replace their oil and filter every 3 months. It’s also essential to use the correct type of oil for your specific model Jaguar. For instance, in certain models require synthetic oil, which allows for oil to be changed less frequently. This information can also be found in your Jaguar owner’s manual.

How We Can Help

At Euro Automotive, we take every inspection seriously, including those related to oil leaks. Oil leaks in Jaguars, as well as other vehicles, are concerning and can point toward serious issues that require immediate repair. If you’re a Jaguar owner near Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX, and need automotive repair or maintenance work, please call our shop to learn about our specialized experience and background in working with Jaguar vehicles. We consider ourselves experts, and we take pride in our work. Particularly if you’re experiencing an oil leak, contact us to schedule an immediate inspection.

Jaguar XE 2016 On Road image credit goes to: trangiap.

Why to Replace Your Car’s Camshaft Seal

Posted on | 14 Feb 2018 By Anita Gaal

Your car’s engine is made up of different parts and materials, all of which can potentially become damaged or worn and eventually fail. The recommended service plan for your vehicle will likely differ from that of other cars; however, it’s most important that the service plan is adhered to, or that it’s altered based on your own unique circumstances. For instance, a driver who only uses their car to drive to and from work on a flat highway will likely need to attend to their car’s needs at a different pace than a driver who typically drives on rough terrain. Likewise, a driver who rides their car rough will need to replace items at a different pace than a driver who keeps their car parked in a garage and rarely drives it.

The camshaft seal is a small engine component that performs an important function and generally lasts a long time, so it’s something that drivers don’t typically concern themselves with on a regular basis. Camshaft seals are easy to overlook as the source of a problem if you’re not familiar with its purpose. Therefore, if you notice any concerning symptoms, it’s best to bring your car to a professional for examination. If your car recently was diagnosed with a faulty camshaft seal, here’s a little more information about the part and how to fix the issue.

What is a Camshaft Seal?

In any internal combustion engine camshaft controls the mechanical process that opens the valves that release air and fuel into the engine as it’s driving at different paces. Sounds pretty basic, right? Well, yes and no. Turns out, the camshaft plays a huge role in whether or not your car performs well. The camshaft seal sits between the cylinder head and the cover gasket for the valves. Since oil is free-flowing through your engine, there are oil-related symptoms associated with a damaged camshaft seal—we’ll talk about these in a moment. To a European luxury import owner, it can be devastating when a camshaft seal begins to fail.

How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms Associated with Failure

As previously mentioned, the symptoms associated with camshaft seal failure usually involve signs of an oil leak. If you notice any oil beneath your car, then you should have the issue checked out immediately. Oil leaks can be due to any number of issues or failing parts, so a differential diagnosis by a professional repair shop is critical. You might also notice smoke coming from your engine while driving. When engine oil touches any hot, metal part of your engine it will begin to smoke.

The Effects of a Damaged Camshaft Seal

Oil leaks are concerning because oil is the fluid that keeps your engine lubricated. When your engine can’t keep lubricated, other parts can become damaged and the oil itself can become contaminated with debris. Due to the positioning of the camshaft, oil leaks in this area are particularly damaging to your engine.

The Importance of Routine Inspections

One of the best ways to counteract potential camshaft failure is to schedule routine inspections as part of your ongoing vehicle care and maintenance. When you bring your car to your automotive specialist often, they can track your vehicle’s health and take care of issues before they become serious. Camshaft seal failure is difficult to detect ahead of time if no symptoms are present, so it’s important to choose an automotive shop that is especially thorough.

How We Can Help

The professionals here at Euro Automotive have serviced a wide range of vehicles from the nearby areas of: Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Our background and expertise is in a variety of European import vehicles, including: Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Volvo, Jaguar, BMW, and Mercedes. These cars require specialized attention and ongoing care to prevent issues from occurring, but they require specially-informed diagnostic technicians to anticipate and accurately locate the source of any issues that do arise. If you have noticed the signs of potential camshaft seal failure like smoke coming from your engine or an oil leak in your driveway, please contact our shop to schedule an appointment. We look forward to getting your car safely back on the road and performing its best.

Infotainment System Failure in Your Jaguar

Posted on | 26 Jan 2018 By Anita Gaal

Since automobiles were first developed, we have continued to dream up the possibilities that were to come. In fact, it wasn’t too long ago that the ability to have a computer take control of the wheel with simply the push of a button was outlandish; but here we are today, with cruise control as a standard feature in all stock vehicles. Luxury vehicles, such as the Jaguar brand, have made it their mission to include the most advanced technology in their vehicles for safety and performance purposes. However, the most recent advancements in tech have made digital entertainment commonplace in many luxury brands.

In-car digital entertainment comes in a variety of forms, and all Jaguar vehicles come with the option of customizable features. The idea of advanced technology in our cars for entertainment purposes is part of our reality today, and experts are continually applying the most recent developments to car design. However, as the industry is ever-growing and ever-changing right before our very eyes, the process and outcome isn’t always perfect. Here is a little more information on your Jaguar’s infotainment system and how to prevent failure from occurring so you can avoid a headache all together.

Different Types of In-car Entertainment

Also known as in-vehicle infotainment, these features began with the simple cassette player. Then, CD-players became common in most vehicle models, making a huge splash in the auto industry. Since that era, most vehicles, including luxury imports like Jaguar, include the option to add in-car WiFi, and tend to come standard with Bluetooth connectivity. Other types of current infotainment include: navigation systems, head-unit or headrest video players and displays, and voice control of audio and media or steering.

Issues Are Common

The technology behind these features is constantly evolving and changing, and the constant adaptation makes it necessary for automotive specialists to remain familiar with software updates and other necessary services to keep the tech running smoothly for their clients. Experiencing frozen or blacked out screens and failing tech can be frustrating; if you own a Jaguar and are unfamiliar with how to use or maintain the infotainment technology in your vehicle, it will help to receive guidance and more information about how system works in your particular car.

System Updates and Services

Just like the other parts of your Jaguar that need regular maintenance to prevent issues, you might encounter problems with your entertainment system if it isn’t continually updated and serviced. Bringing your Jaguar to a specialist for required system updates and downloads is not only necessary for optimal functioning, but the systems may need to be restarted or re-downloaded which might require cooperation with the manufacturer. If you notice that your infotainment system is showing signs of malfunction or failure, it can be stressful—just one more thing to add to your list of things to do; however, the longer the problem sits, the more inconvenient it may become.

The Need for Jaguar-Specialized Care

Owning a luxury vehicle like a Jaguar comes with a specific duty of care that often takes time, effort, and money. Finding the right Jaguar repair shop will give you the peace of mind that you deserve and your car the attention it needs. Having infotainment in your Jaguar is an additional luxury, as well as an additional expense. It’s important to find a repair shop that is not only honest, but has specialized Jaguar knowledge and skill. Having someone who is not familiar with Jaguar tech features perform maintenance on your vehicle can wind up costing you extra cash in the end.

How We Can Help

At Euro Automotive, our mission is simple: to provide quality, specialized automotive care to individuals and families at a fair price. In the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, we have seen a wide range of Jaguar clients’ issues come into our shop, and it has only added to our knowledge and expertise about the Jaguar brand. We know it’s expensive to maintain a Jaguar—especially at the level of care they require; therefore, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide at least 25% lower prices than the nearby Jaguar dealerships. If you need servicing for various infotainment systems in your Jaguar, or have questions about any other automotive concern, contact our shop directly. We look forward to helping you get the most out of your luxury brand.

Why Your Audi Needs Software Updates

Posted on | 11 Jan 2018 By Anita Gaal

The most recent Audi vehicles are tech-based and incredibly unique in comparison to other vehicles in the past. The capability that automobiles have these days goes beyond what we imagined in the past, short of hovercars, and the Audi brand is no exception. Since most cars, and most Audi models for that matter, rely heavily on technology to perform optimally, it is important that automotive technicians possess the proper knowledge and skill to handle procedures such as electronic diagnostics and software updates. Audi vehicles need software updates, just like other vehicles today, especially if you want to experience the true potential of your Audi vehicle. Here is some more information about software updates for your Audi and why regular software updates are important.

The Audi Privilege

Audis are high-performance, luxury, vehicles manufactured with high quality materials and products—this includes the most advanced technology and software. The Audi driving experience today would not be complete without the most high-functioning components possible. When software becomes outdated in your Audi, you are not only cheating yourself of the best driving experience possible, but you may also be at risk for lessened safety in your vehicle.

How to Know When to Update Software

Depending on the nature of the reason for a software update, the Audi manufacturer themselves may send out a notice to Audi clients. For instance, if your Audi’s control unit requires an update, then various engine functions may depend on that update to be installed in order to perform. It is common for software updates to address glitches in new technology in various electronic systems, which include some for convenience, but also some for safety too. While the manufacturer may alert you of the need for a software update, you may also want to consult with an Audi specialist shop for guidelines of when to service your Audi’s software.

Various Systems Affected by Software

While all Audi vehicles are mostly tech-based, there are specific systems that rely solely on software to function. With the most recent conveniences and safety features in Audi vehicles, drivers often pay for such features in the overall cost of the vehicle when they purchase it, or in their monthly payment for leases. These features are part of the benefit of owning a luxury vehicle like an Audi, and it is imperative to stay on top of the software updates it needs in order to sustain the quality of your driving experience. Here are a few of the systems that are affected by software:

Media/Partial Update: Some of the most recent technological developments in the automotive industry include: GPS, Bluetooth, and other multimedia services. Staying on top of software updates helps these functions to perform their best at all times. Since you’re paying for the latest and the greatest in your Audi, software updates can help protect your investment in your technological future. Stay current, and enjoy the perks.

Main Software Update: On the flipside, safety is one of the most important factors that customers look for when purchasing a new vehicle. Audis are known for their highly-efficient safety features, which can be greatly affected by glitches in software. Updating this software can mean the difference between various safety functions performing during an emergency or not—it’s best to err on the side of caution with this one and contact a local professional to see if your Audi requires an update or not.

How We Can Help

The expert staff at Euro Automotive proudly services all Audi models. We specialize our automotive skill and knowledge to focus on European imports such as Audi, because we admire the high-quality of such brands—they only illuminate our passion for the automotive industry and leave us wanting to learn more about the evolving technological side of auto engineering and design. Serving areas nearby Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, we have a wide client base who we value above all else, and who have trusted us for years with their Audi. Our certified, highly-trained technicians focus on accurately diagnosing Audi technological issues, and address them with the proper skills and precision, which often includes software updates. If you are unsure of whether your Audi needs a software update, contact our shop—we will help guide you through the process and address any issues that you’re concerned with.

2017 Audi Q5 image credit goes to: zavatskiy.

How You Can Maintain the Brake System in BMW

Posted on | 27 Dec 2017 By Anita Gaal

BMWs are quality vehicles that offer drivers security and stability; however, the maintained quality of a BMW is highly dependent upon how well we take care of them. Routine maintenance is critical in order to extend the life of your vehicle, but it is also important for safety reasons. For instance, your BMW’s brakes won’t last forever, and will certainly need to be replaced or serviced every now and then. Of course, the rate at which your brakes wear out is also heavily impacted by the overall quality of parts you use to maintain them. Furthermore, driving habits can greatly affect the condition of your brakes—and believe us, we know how easy it is to drive like a race car driver when behind the wheel of a BMW. Here are some tips on how you can best maintain the brake system in your BMW.

Be Good to Your Brakes

Treating your BMW’s brakes well falls under a wide range of categories of care. What we mean by “be good to your brakes” is that it’s especially important to become aware of your driving habits. Driving fast in a BMW seems to come naturally; however, when you drive fast you often have to brake fast—especially if you live in a populated city with many traffic lights. Refrain from standing on the gas pedal until you’re out of the danger zones in which you may have to brake quickly. Disregarding your driving habits can erode your brakes a lot quicker than under normal conditions.

Replace Brake Pads

There are several parts of your BMW’s brake system that may need service or repair if you don’t take good care of your brake pads. Unfortunately, brake pads do wear out eventually, and its important to replace them with good quality brake pads in order to reduce the amount of time between replacements. Be sure to check with your BMW automotive specialist on what the best type of brake pads are for your particular vehicle—choosing the right brake pads can save you expensive trips to the mechanic.

Keep Brake Fluid Full and Clean

BMWs have advanced systems that can tell you when problems are arising, but it’s best to stay one step ahead at all times to avoid costly visits to the automotive shop. Be proactive about your brake fluid as often as possible. Checking your brake fluid’s level and clarity can preemptively stop internal corrosion and/or brake failure. In other words, your brake fluid is essential to the overall health of your brakes, but it’s also important in order to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

Remain Aware of Symptoms and Troubling Noises

Once there are noticeable symptoms associated with deterioration or failure of your BMW’s brake system, it has gone past the point of preventive care and turned into a damage control situation. Screeching or grinding sounds are concerning when it comes to your brake health; it typically means that repair work is in the near future for your BMW. Staying on top of routine inspections is the best way to prevent brake issues. Brake inspections are easiest to perform when the tires on your vehicle are off—so, you might want to ask that your brakes are inspected every time you have a tire rotation. However, you can check the brake fluid year-round, as this is one important way to prevent damage and troubling symptoms from occurring. Consult with your BMW automotive specialist on how to best care for your brakes in such a way that will be convenient for you.

How We Can Help

Here at Euro Automotive, we specialize in luxury European repair and maintenance services for BMW owners in the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, Texas. Our certified and highly skilled technicians focus on preventive care and maintenance in order to save our clients money on costly repairs, whereas many other shops and dealerships tend to ignore preventive care all together and make their money off of the more expensive repair work. We believe that fundamental automotive knowledge can help our clients best care for their vehicles and save money in the process, so it is our mission to help our clients understand the basics. If your BMW is in need of brake service or repair, or you have any other automotive concerns, contact us directly—we look forward to helping your BMW get back to its old self again.

Featured image credit goes to: kurmyshov.

Maintenance That Increases Your Car’s Worth

Posted on | 13 Dec 2017 By Anita Gaal

Cars aren’t great investments—or so we’re told. Of course, if you own a vehicle, chances are that it’s not going to be worth the same amount as it was when you first purchased it, and this is simply the nature of the automotive industry. Similar to cell phones, automotive technology is continually advancing daily, and what was once the most up-to-date model can quickly become outdated. Decreasing car value is typical for most cars, so the question now becomes: what can we do to increase our cars’ worth? Here are some helpful automotive tips that can greatly improve the rate at which your car’s value decreases:

Engine Maintenance and Repair

Undoubtedly the most important part of your vehicle, the engine is the heart of all of your car’s functioning. Routine maintenance such as oil changes and fluid flushes are critical for your engine’s health and can greatly reduce the chances of parts failing. Unfortunately, engine damage can still occur due to other issues such as accidents and a given drivers’ typical driving habits. If engine damage does occur, it is imperative to have the engine repaired immediately and appropriately.

Regular Tune-ups

Highly overlooked by vehicle owners, regular tune-ups are a great way to involve your automotive specialist in the ongoing, overall health of your vehicle. Tune-ups are an opportunity for automotive professionals to intervene in potentially problematic issues before they become costly and spread to other areas that will require expensive repair. Regular tune-ups may involve different procedures at different shops, and will vary even further depending on the type of vehicle you drive, so it’s important to contact your local, trusted automotive shop for more details about the services that are included in their typical “tune-up” process.

Tire Rotations and Wheel Alignments

Now, you may be thinking: “wait a minute, I thought that tires don’t bear any weight in the value of a vehicle…” While tires are usually held separately from a vehicle’s value, the condition of the tires and the alignment of the wheels play a large role in the functioning of other aspects of your car. For instance, the suspension is directly connected to the wheels, and if a tire becomes damaged or goes flat, it can damage your suspension parts. When you take good care of your tires by having them rotated, and inspect them regularly for irregular wear patterns to assess the condition of the wheel alignment, you can preserve the integrity of other parts of the vehicle.

Body and Interior Work

Ask yourself: what is the first thing you notice about a car when you see it? The answer is probably the same for everyone—the paint. The exterior of a car maintains the re-sale value greatly because curb appeal is important to us all. If your car has suffered dents and scratches, you can have them repaired and re-finished in order to preserve the paint job. Now, a second question: what aspect of a vehicle contributes to your comfort and convenience the most? The answer is: the interior. Leather and fabric seats are comfortable, but when they are ripped and torn or damaged, it can greatly deter buyers from investing. It’s important to repair scratches and gouges quickly, before they become out of hand. Routine polishing and vacuuming as well as car washes and waxes are a great way to keep your car’s value competitive.

How We Can Help

The professionals here at Euro Automotive are trained and certified technicians for European-engineered vehicles such as Audi, Porsche, Jaguar, and BMW. In the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, Texas, we have seen and serviced vehicles in every imaginable condition, and we pride ourselves greatly on our ability to improve the value of our clients’ vehicles in just a single visit. Offering prices that are up to 25% lower than the nearby dealerships, with expertise that is unrivaled, we always aim to save our clients money on current services in addition to putting money in your pocket with increased car value. We would be honored to be given the responsibility of caring for your vehicle with ongoing engine maintenance, repair, and regular tune-ups. For more information on how we can extend the life of your vehicle and increase its overall value, contact us to schedule a consultation or to speak with a friendly professional over the phone. You can also email us with any questions you have. We look forward to hearing from you!

Secrets to Help Your BMW Demand Less Maintenance

Posted on | 29 Nov 2017 By Anita Gaal

BMWs are designed and engineered to outperform nearly all other luxury vehicles on the market. Each year, drivers rate BMWs the highest out of many other options available; however, any vehicle, including BMWs, only perform at their best when the driver or owner follows routine maintenance procedures. Even cars with reputations like BMWs can break down and begin to fail on us. While it is impossible to avoid automotive care, there are certain things you can do as a BMW owner to cut down on repair costs and help your car demand less maintenance over the course of its lifetime. Here are some secrets that will help extend the life of your BMW and lessen the overall amount of maintenance expenses over time.

Follow the Scheduled Maintenance Plan

Every vehicle manufacturer creates a specified maintenance plan for each model. Every brand is different, but furthermore, so is every model within a brand. For instance, the BMW 7 Series will need a different schedule of maintenance than the 3 Series. Following the scheduled maintenance plan for your specific BMW is the best way to organize your expectations in terms of cost and time management over the course of your BMWs lifetime. The maintenance plan set forth by the manufacturer is designed to help your BMW perform optimally—when you don’t follow this plan, parts and services can become neglected, leading to costly repairs and higher need for maintenance.

Don’t Wait to Have Troubling Symptoms Checked Out

The longer a problem continues, the more likely your car is to experience further damage, and therefore a higher repair bill. Your BMW is an intricate system of many different subsystems and parts that all work together to function at their best. When you notice a sign or a symptom that something isn’t working quite right, you should bring your BMW in to the nearest, most trusted BMW specialist. Troubling symptoms that continue or get worse should be thoroughly inspected before the problem spreads to other systems and areas of the vehicle. The longer you wait, the more likely that you’ll wind up paying a fortune in various repair costs.

Regular Oil Changes

Many drivers underestimate the importance of routine oil changes. You can find the recommended schedule for oil changes in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Generally oil changes should be performed once every 3 months or 3,000 miles; however, this is based on an average of the typical drivers’ conditions and habits. You can speak with your BMW specialist to see if you can cut down on oil changes, but they should never be eliminated or forgone. Oil changes help keep your engine’s oil clean and running smoothly, lubricating vital parts of your engine. If your oil becomes dirty, it can become defective. Oil filters should also be changed often.

Find Professionals Who Specialize in BMWs

There are many misconceptions about the automotive industry. One of them is regarding who you must bring your vehicle to for inspections, services, repairs, and maintenance work. Bringing your BMW to any average mechanic who does not have specific knowledge and training background in German-engineering can be detrimental to your wallet and to your car’s life expectancy. Another misconception is that you must bring your BMW to the BMW dealership for servicing. Dealerships often overcharge their clients because of this common misconception, but it is important to know that most BMW dealerships do not hire technicians with any specific training in BMW repair.

Our Approach to BMW Care

Euro Automotive specialists, serving Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, Texas, are specifically trained and skilled in working with BMWs and other German-engineered cars. We take pride in our philosophy on educating and informing our clients about basic automotive knowledge so that they can get a better picture of the work we do, as well as care for their vehicles appropriately. Furthermore, we offer up to 25% lower pricing than dealerships nearby so that the same services can be performed on clients’ BMWs at a more affordable price. If you would like more information about the services we provide or would like to schedule an appointment to have your BMW inspected or diagnosed, contact us today—we look forward to helping more people save money and extend their vehicle’s longevity.

Featured image credit goes to: joephotographer.

Different Warning Signs of Improper Wheel Alignment

Posted on | 14 Nov 2017 By Anita Gaal

Auto maintenance is often put off by drivers until the last minute, sometimes until other problems occur due to the initial problem. When you begin noticing signs or symptoms of improper wheel alignment, it is critical that you get the issue diagnosed immediately—before other damage occurs because of it. When wheel alignment is not corrected for an extended period of time, it can put added stress on other components of your vehicle like suspension parts and tires. Furthermore, wheel alignment can become a safety hazard if the issue goes unaddressed; steering responsiveness can suffer, making your car difficult to control when you need to react in a split second.

Wheel alignments are part of routine auto maintenance, and are included in every vehicle’s scheduled maintenance plan set forth by the manufacturer. Unfortunately, driving conditions and driving habits can influence the frequency of need for alignments. For instance, if you accidentally run over a curb or pothole, your alignment could be significantly affected. There are many symptoms that can appear when your alignment is off, and it is helpful to have an idea of what to look for. Here are some different warning signs of improper wheel alignment that every driver should pay attention to:

Car Drifts or Pulls

Most roads are not made to be flat; they are generally curved on both sides, allowing for proper street water drainage. This can deceptively lead drivers to believe that their alignment is off when they notice their car drifting or pulling to one side while driving. The best way to test if you need an alignment or not is to find a flat, empty road to drive on where you can gently take pressure off of the steering wheel to see if the car naturally drifts in a specific direction. With more severe alignment issues, drifting or pulling will be more apparent to the driver, causing the need to counter steer or consistently apply pressure in the opposite direction.

Emblem Position

Another way to tell if your car needs an alignment or not is to observe the position of the emblem in the center of your steering wheel. While driving straight, if you notice that the emblem is off center or tilted to one side, your car’s resting alignment is off and must be corrected. While it may not seem like a huge ordeal at first, the longer your alignment goes without repair, the more steady the impact will be on other parts over time. Because it’s so easy to allow this issue to continue, it’s best to address the problem when you first notice it to avoid safety issues and a costly repair bill.

Steering Wheel Vibration

This is perhaps one of the most obvious symptoms of wheel misalignment. Steering wheel vibration may only occur while driving straight, but it is an unsettling feeling to experience. Steering wheel vibration is often due to improper alignment, but it can also be due to other serious automotive issues. If you are experiencing steering wheel vibration, you should bring your vehicle in to your nearest, most trusted automotive specialist to perform an accurate differential diagnosis immediately.

Uneven Tire Wear

Tire health is one of the ways to diagnose various auto issues, and wheel alignment is no exception. If you pay close attention to the wear patterns on your tires, you may notice that the wear is off-center or uneven. This could indicate a number of different issues going on, but often point toward issues with wheel alignment.

How We Can Help

Ongoing auto maintenance is important to extend the life of your vehicle, to remain safe on the road, and to keep repair bills to a minimum. Wheel alignments are part of routine auto care, and the experts here at Euro Automotive are pleased to be able to help the residents of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX maintain their vehicles. Specializing in European imports like Jaguar, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes (just to name a few), we offer pricing up to 25% lower than nearby dealerships. It is our mission to provide our local clients with affordable, specialized auto care by professionals who are passionate and enthusiastic about automotive work. To have your alignment checked or schedule an appointment, contact us today—we look forward to helping you get your car back on the road.

Why My Volkswagen Shows Poor Performance

Posted on | 1 Nov 2017 By Anita Gaal

There are a number of different potential causes of poor, or diminished vehicle performance in Volkswagens, and it’s not always related to just one, single issue. The reason for this is that your vehicle is a complex web of interconnected parts that all affect one another in various ways that can often result in a chain reaction of damaged parts. Of course, this is not always the case, and most of the time you can improve your Volkswagen’s performance with quick repair solutions. The first order of business is usually to narrow down the potential cause of the problem based on the symptoms you’re experiencing; therefore, it is important to pay attention to how your car is behaving and what you qualify as “poor” performance. If your car is alerting you via a dashboard warning light, the issue can be diagnosed with professional equipment used by experts in Volkswagen repair and maintenance. Dashboard warning lights aren’t always the way your vehicle will communicate performance-related issues; here are some of the other symptoms you may experience and what they could be related to:

Low Fuel Efficiency

Most car buyers look for a vehicle that has a high fuel economy, and it can be especially disappointing when your car doesn’t deliver as promised on a consistent basis. This could be traced back to an array of different problems, most of which include the need for basic automotive maintenance procedures. Having regular oil changes, using the correct type of oil, for your specific model of Volkswagen is critical for preserving your car’s promised gas mileage range. You should also have oil filters, air filters, and fuel injectors inspected and replaced when necessary. Low fuel efficiency can also be related to driving habits. It is important to not hammer on your car every day, all day; once in a while a lead foot is necessary, but for the majority of the time, try to take it easy to avoid costly repairs and frequent visits to the auto shop.

Acceleration Issues

If your Volkswagen is having difficulty accelerating, there could be any number of causes. Running rough during acceleration could be a result of a clogged fuel injector, air filters, or even more serious transmission issues. Repairing or replacing these parts on Volkswagens ranges greatly in cost, and it is important to do your research comparing pricing in your area for parts and labor—especially if the issue is related to transmission problems. Transmission issues can become expensive, so it is important to have an accurate diagnosis right off the bat. Therefore, you shouldn’t settle for going to a repair shop that doesn’t specialize in Volkswagen repair—you will likely leave disappointed with the results.

Brake Issues

Brake repair and maintenance is one of the most critical elements of ongoing vehicle care because it is directly related to your immediate safety. When your Volkswagen loses the ability to brake properly, it dramatically increases the risk of an accident. If you notice odd noises or smells while employing your brakes, such as: grinding, squealing, or screeching, the performance issue is likely related to your brake pads, rotors, or calipers. Brake issues are concerning, and should be handled with immediacy and extreme accuracy. Make sure to bring your Volkswagen in for a brake inspection as soon as possible if you begin to experience issues braking.

Diagnostics

Warning lights need to be read, analyzed, and cleared by professionals with the proper equipment. In order to accurately assess a performance issue, Volkswagen specialists should attend to the diagnostic procedures your vehicle needs in order for you to get answers and find a solution quickly and efficiently. Accurately diagnosing the problem is half the battle, and improper diagnosis can cost you time and money that you likely don’t have. Look for a shop that focuses on Volkswagen engineering in order to spot issues with better accuracy.

How We Can Help

The aforementioned list is in no way comprehensive—there are many performance issues that Volkswagens encounter, and they require the expertise of a professional to properly address and solve. For years Euro Automotive has been the leading dealership alternative in European repair services. Serving Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX areas, we are familiar with the typical needs of Volkswagen drivers in our community. We offer competitive pricing for our clients with an elevated level of customer service—we take pride in our ability to not only fix automotive issues, but prevent them from reoccurring in the future. If your Volkswagen is experiencing performance issues, contact us today for an inspection or diagnostic service; we look forward to earning your trust and patronage.

Volkswagen Sign image credit goes to: tstajduhar.

Tips to Maintain Your Audi Suspension

Posted on | 18 Oct 2017 By Anita Gaal

Audi’s are known for their luxury and high-level performance. But like every vehicle, they also run into issues now and then. There are things you can do to help maintain your Audi, and the first step is finding a trusted, specialty automotive repair shop that best suits your needs. The right automotive shop will help inform you on the best ways to keep your Audi performing at its best, and they should have specialized knowledge about Audi models in order to properly and accurately diagnose and address areas of concern. One of the most typical problem areas for Audi drivers is the suspension. The suspension includes: shocks, struts, springs, control arms, and ball joints, just to name a few of the vital components. These parts can become worn and begin to malfunction or even fail if the problem goes unaddressed for a period of time. You may notice suspension issues in your Audi originating in wheel alignment or shock absorption, and every locale will require a different method of attack. Here are a few things you can do to prevent disasters and maintain your Audi’s suspension:

Quality is Key

As time goes by, it is normal for parts of your suspension to wear out and be in need of maintenance or repair. If you do encounter such issues, you should make sure that your automotive specialist uses the highest quality products, materials, and equipment to perform repairs or replacements. Using high quality products when replacing suspension parts is critical, and your replacement parts should match the high-end quality of your Audi itself. In order to maintain your Audi’s performance, suspension parts should be manufacturer-recommended and meet the standards of Audi engineering. If you are unsure when you will likely need to replace suspension parts, you should refer to your owner’s manual for more clarification; however, this does not take into account your driving style or habits. Keep in mind that the harder you are on your Audi, the sooner and more frequently you’ll need automotive work performed.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road

The manner in which we drive will heavily determine how quickly suspension parts wear out. Driving over road imperfections at high speeds will increase the likelihood of repair needs, and you should be sure to avoid road hazards, such as potholes and divots, at all costs. Be aware of your surroundings to avoid driving over curbs accidentally, or flying over speedbumps that you don’t see beforehand. The more conscious you are of the road conditions, the better your chances of maintaining your suspension for a longer period of time. Audi’s are built strong and tough, but like any other vehicle they are susceptible to damage when we don’t remain conscious of our driving habits.

Have Regular Alignments

If you do experience road imperfections in your Audi at high speeds, you should be sure to bring your vehicle in for an inspection soon after. When you accidently hit a curb or drive over a deep pothole in the road, it can lead to wheel misalignment. This is a relatively easy issue to fix, assuming that’s all the damage that was caused. Wheel alignments are generally inexpensive and a part of your vehicle’s routine maintenance schedule that is recommended by the manufacturer. Most wheel alignments that go smoothly don’t take very long to complete, and it is generally a same-day service that can be performed by any Audi automotive expert. Wheel misalignment is easy to diagnose, and longer term misalignment will have an effect on your tires, so it is critical to have such issues addressed immediately.

Our Approach to Audi Maintenance

Euro Automotive is the leading dealership alternative, serving the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. We offer up to 25% off of dealership prices for the same expertise, skill, qualifications, and efficiency that you would find at the Audi dealership. Specializing in luxury European repair services, we take pride in our extensive knowledge about German-engineered vehicles such as Audi. We take automotive care one step further than most shops in our area—we prefer to help our clients better understand their role in vehicle maintenance at the most basic level. If you would like us to take a look at your Audi’s suspension to perform repairs, upgrades, or basic maintenance tasks like wheel alignment, contact us today. We look forward to earning your trust and loyalty.