How to Deal With Volkswagen Engine Oil Leaks

Posted on | 23 Dec 2019 By Anita Gaal

It’s no wonder Volkswagens have become one of the most popular vehicles. Owners love the quality of performance, reliability, and comfort each model offers. However, like most vehicles, VW’s can experience the ill effects of oil spills. Motor oil’s main function is to reduce friction and wear and tear on parts and to clean the engine from sludge. After some time, the wear can make parts fall flat and oil to spill. Volkswagen’s aren’t especially inclined to oil leaks more than other vehicles, yet getting them fixed requires the skill of a VW master to keep a break from happening once more. Let’s review the main causes of oil spills, how to recognize them, and how to manage them for your Volkswagen.

Main Causes of Oil Leaks

The fundamental driver of oil spills frequently boils down to worn out parts inside the motor. Harm after some time is unavoidable, as most vehicle parts fail sooner or later. Obviously, the rate at which parts decay can be expected by outside elements that may make them flop rashly. Irregular oil changes, extreme climates, or a lot of stop-and-go driving can all increase the possibility of a leak happening.

Ensure It’s Engine Oil

Before panicking and searching for the source of your oil leak, let’s be certain that the leak really is motor oil. Engine oil is amber in color, differentiating it from other fluids such as coolant, which is pink or bright green, or transmission fluid, which is a reddish brown. If you can’t tell if what’s leaking from your car is engine oil, you should schedule a visit with an expert technician. Below are the areas to inspect.

Drain Plug

A loose drain plug while having your oil serviced can cause a leak, as will a worn plug or one that hasn’t been tightened properly. A worn out drain plug should replaced to avoid leaks. You may see the leak underneath your car, which is a great visual indicator that your VW needs further inspection.

Errors with the Filler Cap

A common error when replacing oil is neglecting to properly tighten the filler top. A loose filler cap often leads to nasty oil leaks. Not only is this messy, but it can cause worse damage down the line. The leaking oil may drip into your engine compartment.

Valve Gasket Seal

This is responsible for circulating the engine oil properly. However, gasket seals age begin to wear from high heat conditions of the engine. The first gaskets to check are the rear main seal, the timing case gasket, camshaft seals, the valve cover gasket and the head gasket.

Oil filter

Oil filters naturally wear out over time and will need replacement at recommended intervals. Their purpose is to accumulate the debris which can cause deposits and buildup. If it cannot filter oil through the accumulated buildup fast enough, this can cause a buildup and leak.

How To Prevent Oil Leaks

The best way to prevent oil leaks in your Volkswagen is proper maintenance at the recommended scheduled intervals. It is common to follow your Volkswagen’s manufacturer maintenance plan. If you drive in rural areas or during rush hour with many stop-and-go traffic jams, it is recommended that you change the oil and filter more frequently.

Hire a Specialist to Save Money in the Long Haul

Employing the services of a reputable service provider ought to be top on your priority list. Repairing an engine oil leak is not difficult but it can require more comprehensive repair work for damages that have resulted from oil leaks. Ensuring they are fixed properly requires the expertise of a trained VW specialist to prevent a leak from happening again. They will also recognize smaller problems before they become major.

The German automotive specialists here at Euro Automotive will use the latest diagnostic equipment to inspect and repair your oil leak in your VW. We service customers from all over the area, including Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Call us today if you have questions about our pricing or appointment availability. You can also stop by for a consultation. We look forward to earning your trust and support for all your future Volkswagen maintenance and service needs.

Reasons Behind Oil Pressure Switch Failure in Your Mercedes From The Best Repair Shop in Dallas

Posted on | 6 Dec 2019 By Anita Gaal

The oil in your Mercedes is under continuous pressure. This pressure keeps it flowing through your vehicle. The oil is needed to keep all of the critical components in the engine lubricated. If there isn’t enough pressure, the oil will not be distributed correctly. This will lead to friction and component failure. The oil pressure switch, along with other components, detects the pressure level. If there is an issue, it is able to alert the driver. It will do so by activating the dashboard warning light.

The Function of the Oil Pressure Switch

The oil pressure switch is a critical component that can warn you if you are experiencing failure. You may only see the issue as an annoyance, but having properly-maintained oil pressure is crucial for your engine to run properly. If there isn’t enough oil to lubricate the metal surfaces, your car will produce heat and experience friction.

Knowing there is a problem before it is too late is key to preventing additional damage to engine components. If the dashboard warning light is triggered, you will have enough time to get off of the road and assess the problem.

If the pressure switch malfunctions, you will not be warned if there is an issue detected. Not knowing there is a problem can lead to further damage and complete engine failure.

Signs of a Failing Oil Pressure Sensor

Like any other component in your Mercedes, the oil pressure switch can fail. The symptoms of a failing sensor include:

Oil Pressure Light is Illuminated

When the oil pressure sensor begins to go bad, it can give erratic readings. These inaccurate readings will trigger your dashboard light. If the light comes on, check your oil level. If it is at the correct level and the engine sounds normal there is a good chance that the sensor is bad. If the oil level is fine, but there is a ticking or grinding noise, you oil pump may have failed. Do not run your vehicle with a failed pump. When the oil level is low, you may be experiencing an oil leak, a lack of pressure, or you may be burning oil. Do not drive your vehicle under these circumstances.

Oil Pressure Light is Blinking

Oil pressure problems are usually not intermittent. If the oil pressure light is blinking irregularly, this is a sign that the pressure switch sensor is failing.

Oil Pressure Gauge Readings

If your oil pressure gauge readings change from very high to very low, this can be an indication of a bad sensor. Don’t just add oil without checking the level. Using too much oil can be just as bad as not having enough.

Check Engine Light is Illuminated

False oil level readings can trigger your check engine light. Your check engine light can be activated by a number of factors. This light is there to let you know when your car detects a problem. Always take your Mercedes to a certified mechanic to have a diagnostic check performed.

Preventing Oil Pressure Switch Problems

Oil pressure switches can fail over time. The best ways to prevent issues is with regular maintenance. Keeping current on oil and filter changes is crucial for your engine to run properly.

Other ways to ensure that your vehicle is kept in excellent condition is to:

• Only have a certified mechanic work on your Mercedes-Benz
• Have frequent inspections performed
• Keep current on your regular maintenance schedule
• Don’t put off having any issues diagnosed and fixed by a certified mechanic

Call us Today

At Euro Automotive, our mechanics specialize in luxury European auto and repair services. You don’t have to take your Mercedes to a dealership to get great service. We can provide the same service and save you time and money.

Whether you are experiencing oil pressure switch failure or need to have your car serviced, we’ve got you covered. Call our office today to schedule your appointment. You can reach us on 214-956-7744, or if you are in the Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX area, stop by and speak with us about your vehicle’s needs and routine maintenance.

When to Replace Your BMW’s Ignition Module from the Expert Garage in Dallas

Posted on | 19 Nov 2019 By Anita Gaal

The ignition module in your automobile is an important component that is responsible for firing the spark plugs. Each plug must fire at precisely the right time in order for the engine to operate and perform properly. The module relies on input from the camshaft position sensor to determine when to signal the spark plugs to fire. This process is known as the base ignition timing for the vehicle.

Your BMW is a high quality German automobile that has the reputation of excellence and is seen as somewhat of a status symbol. They are among the most coveted and popular luxury vehicles on the market. These automobiles are designed with the most innovative technology as well as a focus on style, dependability, and comfort. While they are highly recognized for unsurpassed quality, BMWs are not without various mechanical issues. A faulty ignition module can cause serious complications, and you should recognize when the module needs to be replaced.

Signs of an Ignition Module Failure

Rough riding during acceleration

Your vehicle may suddenly jerk, shake, or vibrate when you press down on the gas pedal. There may also be a noticeable lack of power or sluggish hesitation when increasing the speed.

Engine will not start

If the ignition module malfunctions, the motor may not turn over or start at all. Several tries may be needed just to start the vehicle, and even if it does, it will quickly lose power again. In this situation, your vehicle will have to be towed to a reputable European auto repair shop. Towing costs will depend on the provider and distance to the repair center.

Check engine light may illuminate

The sensors that trigger the check engine light are signaled by a malfunction of any part of the vehicle’s operating system that affects the emissions. The ignition system is included in this system. Therefore, a malfunction of the ignition module will cause the check engine light to illuminate on your dashboard. This should be addressed as soon as possible following the activation of the sensor.

Vehicle may overheat

A faulty module can lead to overheating of your BMW. The rise and fall in engine temperature will affect the engine’s performance. When it gets hot, the engine may die. As it cools off, the vehicle may start and operate until the temperature climbs again. This can make for hazardous and unpredictable driving conditions.

Continuing to drive with any of the symptoms listed above can cause serious damage and the need for costly repairs. A thorough inspection is required to diagnose an issue with the ignition module and should only be completed by an experienced auto service center. Any information that you can give to the technician will be helpful in determining the potential cause of the problem and if it does sound like a malfunctioning module. This can also help fix the issue quicker and get you back on the road safely.

Euro Automotive Can Provide Expert Service for Your BMW

Euro Automotive specializes in the repair services of luxury European automobiles, including your BMW. We have over 18 years of experience and our six full-service auto bays allow us to provide quick and responsive customer service. Your BMW comes with its own very unique service schedule as well as specific and intricate service requirements. Our team of Bosch certified mechanics understand this and provide exactly the attention your vehicle truly needs.

Our commitment is to our customers, and we are the trusted European car dealer alternative for Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Euro Automotive has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and we strive to create a personal business relationship with every client. We always offer fair pricing while we conduct business with integrity and honesty. Euro also guarantees your complete satisfaction with every visit:

• 12 month guarantee on all replacement parts
• 12 month/12,000 mile warranty
• 90 day guarantee on labor
• Free diagnosis and budget friendly labor costs

Choose with confidence when your BMW needs maintenance, inspection, diagnosis, or repair. Call us today for an appointment and let Euro Automotive become your trusted auto service center!

Where Should You Fix Your Jaguar’s Various Engine Oil Leaks in Dallas

Posted on | 2 Nov 2019 By Anita Gaal

Jaguars are cars that appeal to the rebel inside us, with sporty designs and punchy motoring all wrapped up in classic luxury. Jaguars encapsulate the joys of hitting the road simply for the pleasure of driving. However, one thing that can certainly ruin this ideal driving experience is an engine oil leak. In this article, we will learn how to identify the type of leak, discuss the causes of the leak, and discover the best place to seek repairs in all of Dallas.

What causes engine oil leaks?

Engine oil leaks are quite common and can be caused by many factors such as:

Damage

Damage is probably the most common cause of oil leaks. Given time or poor maintenance, the engine can warp or parts can break, presenting the opportunity for oil to leak. Common places where damage can occur include the engine as well as the oil pan.

Poor Quality Oil

Cheap or low quality engine oil, as well as oil that has become expired, can directly contribute to oil leaks. Low quality oil often lacks the correct conditioners or additives needed for peak performance, and because of this can result in clogs and damage to the engine system.

Cracked Cylinder Head

This is a less common cause of an oil leak but can still occur. When the cylinder head is cracked, it creates a gap where oil can seep through. The oil can also pass through the head to contaminate the coolant system.

Other Causes

Other causes of oil leaks include damage to the piston rings, damage to valve seals, poor gasket installation, and general holes through the system, such as around seals, valves, or gaskets.

Is it engine oil?

When faced with a leak from your Jaguar, the first thing you should do is identify what type of fluid is leaking:

• Engine Oil: Dark brown/yellow with a slippery texture.
• Transmission Fluid: Pink/red with slippery texture.
• Antifreeze: Green/orange with a sweet smell.
• Power Steering Fluid: Clear or transparent with no smell

Symptoms of an Oil Leak

Of course, one of the most obvious signs of an oil leak are dark puddles of fluid forming on the ground below the front of your car. This oil will be dark brown or yellow with a slippery texture and may be just a few drops or a large puddle. It’s always a good idea to keep your eye out for leaks of any kind. So if your car has been parked for a day or so, give a glance at the ground under it before driving off.

Alongside oil on the ground, other symptoms of an oil leak include:

Smoke from the Engine

This is caused by leaking oil dripping into the exhaust manifold, which results in smoke coming from the engine area as the oil burns. This shouldn’t be left unresolved, as the leaked oil can damage your Jaguar’s oxygen sensors as well as break down the gaskets.

Dashboard Oil Light

The dashboard oil light illuminating is another warning sign that should not be ignored. This light signals that the oil level or pressure is lower than normal. Of course this could just be warning you that your oil levels are running low, but if you’ve refilled recently, then it is likely you have a leak.

Overheating Engine

Without the correct amount of oil circulating in your engine to cool it down, your engine is likely to overheat.

Burning Oil Smell

If you smell burning oil or hear a sizzle from your engine, its likely you have a leak within your engine.

Euro Automotive: The Best in Dallas

If your Jaguar is suffering from an oil leak and you live in or around Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX, then don’t settle for any less than the best. Head to Euro Automotive. We are specialists in repairing and servicing luxury European cars. The expert team at Euro Automotive are on hand to help Monday through Friday. With great special offers such as a 10% discount for newcomers and free oil and filter changes (terms apply) for as long as your own your European car, there really is no need to even look anywhere else for excellence in Jaguar repair.

Ways to Repair Tie Rod Failure in Your Volvo

Posted on | 16 Oct 2019 By Anita Gaal

Volvos have a well-earned reputation for being very durable and long-lasting automobiles. If you pulled up a chair and observed any highly-traveled roadway in this country, you will doubtlessly spot many older model Volvos speeding down the street, operating just as well as they did when they were first driven off the lot. However, Volvos are not completely impervious to wear and tear and other more serious mechanical problems. There are certain problems that Volvos develop over time that, as a Volvo owner, you should consider. One of these issues is the failure of the tie rod. If you aren’t mechanically inclined, you may be asking yourself what exactly is a tie rod and what is it doing in your Volvo? Let’s discuss that in the article below.

What are tie rods and what do they do?

Tie rods assist in the steering of the automobile. They serve as the connecting point between the center of the vehicle to the outer edge where the wheels are located within the greater power steering system. Tie rods respond to the commands of the steering wheel. They allow the wheels to pivot either left or right, depending on which way you are turning. Obviously, these are important implements within the steering system. If they malfunction, you will be in major trouble on the road. Your steering may be rendered completely useless, and the car will not be drivable. So how do you spot a failing tie rod in your Volvo if you aren’t a professional mechanic?

How to Spot the Symptoms of a Failing Tie Rod

Since the tie rod is an integral part of the steering of your Volvo, you will notice a few key signs in the handling of your automobile if one of your tie rods is failing. Your steering will simply not respond in the usual way that you are accustomed. You may feel a slight shifting when handling your steering wheel. You also may hear strange noises emanating from the steering system, especially when you attempt to turn the car left or right. When trying to turn, the popping or clicking noises will become more audible. This is a sign of a potentially dangerous situation, and you need to bring your car in to a trustworthy auto repair shop that can replace the tie rods for you. If you wait at all, the ball-in-socket joints will wear down at an accelerated rate, which will quickly lead to the misalignment of your wheels. In this state, it will be near impossible to drive your Volvo at all. At this point, the only question that really remains is where to bring your Volvo for servicing.

Euro Automotive Will Repair Your Tie Rods

Finding the right repair shop to bring your beloved automobile to can be a daunting task. In today’s world of spotty online reviews from people who may or may not have a vendetta against a business, it can be difficult to figure out just which shops are trustworthy and reliable, and which will just waste your time and money.

However, there is one auto repair shop in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that truly earns every 5-star review. Euro Automotive in Dallas believes with good reason that we offer a true alternative to the dealership experience. Our skilled technicians in our employ are not only good at their jobs, but they are very friendly too. You will never feel as if you are an afterthought, which is an all too common experience at a dealership repair shop.

Euro Automotive has been in operation for nearly 20 years, and we have seen other repair shops in the area come and go. We know what it takes to repair high-quality vehicles like your Volvo. Customers have trusted us with their prized possessions for just as long as we have been in operation.

You now know that failing tie rods can lead to a dangerous situation that will, at the very least, cost you a ton of money. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you live in Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX, bring your car into the only repair shop you will ever need. Bring it in to Euro Automotive today.

Tips to Deal With Transmission Valve Body Failure in Porsches

Posted on | 29 Sep 2019 By Anita Gaal

Your Porsche is designed for optimal performance. It has a sleek style with an abundance of luxury features to impress any driver. These truly impressive automobiles are known for their proper handling, smooth transitioning between gears, as well as their speed. However, all of these characteristics can be affected by the performance and overall condition of the transmission valve body. Let’s take a look at this component and discuss how to care for your Porsche’s parts.

What is the transmission valve body?

The transmission valve body is a vitally important part of your vehicle’s transmission. It controls the transmission fluid and sends it to the valves. This keeps the gears operating properly. In other words, this part channels hydraulic fluid through a series of passages and channels to the valves, allowing the gears to change smoothly.

The valve body is crucial to the operation of an automatic transmission system. This component is not as common as some of the others, when it comes to malfunctioning or becoming faulty. However, if your valve body does experience an issue, it can be quite complicated. In fact, the only solutions are normally a total replacement or a rebuild.

Signs You May Have an Issue With the Transmission Valve Body

Check engine light is on

Your check engine light is an alert system for many potential problems with your Porsche. However, if your light is illuminated and you have transmission related codes popping up, it may be that the valve body is to blame. You should have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Your transmission slips out of gear when driving

This can be a significant sign that your valve body is malfunctioning. Your automobile may try to shift up but then rapidly downshifts. It may also be impossible for the motor to shift into a higher gear at all, keeping the RPM revving higher than normal.

Unusual knocking or banging sounds

If you hear these unusual sounds when accelerating, slowing down, or going into reverse, you may have a faulty transmission valve body. A breakdown in parts within the component is the probable cause for such noises. These are created from the bad valves hitting other parts.

Garage shifts

A “garage” shift is when your vehicle has a delay or rough shifts from park into reverse or from park into drive. This is another telling sign of a valve body malfunction.

The Effects of Transmission Valve Body Failure

A problem with slipping gears arises when the gears shift, even though it was not time for them to do so. Involuntary acceleration or deceleration can be a sign of a transmission system that is beginning to malfunction.

A delayed response after receiving a command is another sign of valve body failure. Your Porsche may react in a delayed manner after you give the command to speed up or slow down. Also, such a delay can be highlighted by a jerking movement before the car decides to move forward or backwards.

Consult the Experts at Euro Automotive

Any problem with the transmission of your Porsche can be extremely serious and should be diagnosed and addressed by a reputable team of professionals. A failure of the valve body can be caused by overall wear and tear, fluid contamination or missing or inadequate lubrication.

Euro Automotive has been specializing in the service and repair of luxury European automobiles for over 70 years. Our extensive knowledge and expertise make us the best alternative to having services performed at a dealership for the residents of Dallas, Garland, Arlington and Fort Worth, TX. We are a Better Business Bureau accredited business and a Bosch certified service center.

If you suspect trouble with your Porsche’s transmission valve body, you need to seek immediate attention. We can handle these potentially serious issues while building a personal business relationship with you, our customer. At Euro Automotive, we understand the importance, respect and admiration you have for your exotic vehicle. We offer a 90-day guarantee on all labor, 12-month guarantee on replacement parts, and a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty. Your initial consultation with diagnostic testing is free. Call or stop by today and let us become your trusted experts for your Porsche.

Reasons Behind Erratic Lights in Your Audi From the Experts in Dallas

Posted on | 12 Sep 2019 By Anita Gaal

Among the many different parts of a car that we often take for granted, lights are probably at the top of the list. We expect the lights in our cars to work in order to keep everyone inside the vehicle safe from harm. However, lights can malfunction, like every other part of a car. In fact, even with their reputation of high-performance, durability, and luxury, Audis commonly experience issues with their lights.

In this article, we will break down the reasons behind the erratic lights in your Audi, the signs to look for, and the easiest solution to this common frustration.

Why Your Lights are Erratic

Your Audi’s erratic lights can usually be linked to one of two causes: the alternator or the electrical system.

Problems with the alternator

The alternator is a vital part of your Audi because it works closely with your car’s battery, charging the battery as well as working with it to create the electrical power necessary for your Audi to run properly. If there is an issue with the alternator, your vehicle’s lights will be affected.

Problems with the electrical system

Electricity makes the key functions of your Audi possible. As such, issues to the electrical system, including faulty wiring, bad connections between a bulb and the car’s battery, and problematic fuses, can all cause the lights in your car to become erratic.

Warning Signs

While some vehicular problems are harder to see and diagnose, issues with the lights in your Audi are very easy to notice because the lights are one of the most visible parts of any car.

Are your lights flickering, pulsing, stuck on, or can’t be turned off? Issues like these can start out as a minor nuisance but should be fixed as soon as possible. If they’re not, they can put you and your passengers at risk. If you notice problems with any of the following four areas, then don’t waste time in scheduling an appointment to diagnose and repair the issue:

Interior Lights

When experiencing trouble with the interior lights of your Audi, they may flash, usually due to bad wiring. Likewise, if the lights on your dashboard are flashing, this might be indicative of an electrical issue. However, it’s important to remember that, in the case of interior lights, it’s possible that something else completely unrelated to your car’s electrical system could be causing the malfunction. In addition, if the lights on your Audi’s dashboard or screen are completely burned out, then they will need to be replaced.

Exterior Lights

When discussing your car’s exterior lights, we might be referring to any one of three distinct and separate areas: the headlights, the tail lights, or the low-beams.

Headlights

Just because your headlights are flickering does not mean that you should assume there is an issue with the bulb itself and that replacing the bulb will resolve the issue. Most often, a flickering headlight is indicative that the bulb and the battery are not properly connected. This is usually cheap and easy to fix.

Tail lights

If you notice that your tail lights are flickering, blinking, or won’t turn off, your Audi probably has a brake switch that needs to be replaced.

Low-beams

When your low-beams aren’t working properly, they might flicker or flash. The underlying problem may require a little more effort to diagnose because there are several different possible causes. The most common of these are a faulty fuse, bad wiring, or a malfunctioning bulb. In more serious cases, melted wiring in your Audi might be the culprit.

How We Can Help

Because issues with erratic lights can be tricky to diagnose and may be caused by failing components that are necessary to your Audi’s performance, it is important to contact a specialist as soon as you can after noticing any of the above-mentioned signs.

At Euro Automotive, our Audi technicians are trained to inspect, diagnose, and repair all of your Audi needs. We are conveniently located for drivers in and around Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, so if you’re experiencing issues with your Audi, call us and set up an appointment today.

A Bad Accessory Drive Belt in Your Volkswagen Can Make the Drive Worse in Dallas

Posted on | 26 Aug 2019 By Anita Gaal

All Dallas drivers can probably agree on one thing: it’s an absolute must to have working air conditioning in your car. It can get so hot that you may think you could probably fry an egg on the hood of your car. Since air conditioning is such an important component of a comfortable drive, let’s take a look at one of the parts helping you to stay cool in your Volkswagen while on the road: the accessory drive belt.

The Belt that Offers the Works – The Accessory Drive Belt

The accessory drive belt is made of tough rubber purposed to handle a variety of conditions and levels of durability. Depending on how much and how far your drive, an average accessory drive belt can last you roughly 45,000 to 75,000 miles. On top of providing your air conditioning, it also allows your water pump and power steering capability to operate, making it an essential part of your car.

Depending on your car, you may not have 1 but 2 accessory belts. Keeping them both in good working order is an important part of making sure your vehicle is working properly.

Cracks, Squeaking, Thumping

As durable as it may seem, your belt will need replacement at some point in order to continue to do the best job possible. As you can probably imagine, underneath the hood of your car can get extremely hot. The durability of the accessory drive belt can only take so much before it succumbs to the heat. But don’t worry, it will tell you when it needs attention.

If you hear squeaking or chirping coming from the front of your vehicle, most likely debris or water slipped into the belt, so it’s time to attend to it immediately. Other signs to look out for are friction or wear on the belt, your engine overheating, or your power steering not functioning properly.  Time is of the essence in this case. You need to get it replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, you risk the belt breaking entirely, and then you won’t have an operable car. For your safety and the safety of others around you, get that belt replaced as soon as possible.

Your Car is an Investment – Maintain It Like One

Replacing one’s accessory drive belt can often be overlooked, but it really should not. It’s necessary for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. With plenty of reliable resources like Euro Automotive to help you get the job done, car repair does not have to be so dwelling. As stated before, time is of the essence with summer right around the corner. You want your AC in tip-top condition, so be sure to pop the hood and take a good look at that accessory drive belt.

Where to Go for Trusted Repairs

Treat the maintenance of your accessory drive belt as you would with your oil changes. Just like the oil in your car, your accessory drive belt is used whenever you use your car. Because it does a lot of work, it requires frequent upkeep. Luckily, the upside to this is there are plenty of auto shops that offer this service.

If you’re on the Northwest Highway, Euro Automotive is the shop for you. The diagnostics are free, and all repairs are priced reasonably. Their customer service is well respected, as they have an A+ rating on Better Business Bureau and currently carry a 4.5 star rating on Yelp. And for those still not convinced, have no fear: they are a Bosch certified service center.

Located in North Dallas, Euro Automotive is conveniently 30 minutes away from Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth. When it comes to repairing your car, you may find yourself in need of a garage at odd hours and days, which is why on top of convenient Monday through Friday business hours, they also are open on Saturdays.

If you drive an Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes, Porsche, Volkswagen, or Volvo, you’re in luck. Euro Automotive specializes in servicing the make of your car. Their website is user-friendly, and each accepted model is listed in an orderly fashion. Be sure to let them know you’re a newcomer, as they offer a 10 percent discount off your first bill.

How BMW Specialists in Dallas Can Help With Your BMW’s Ball Joint Failure

Posted on | 9 Aug 2019 By Anita Gaal

BMWs are a luxury to own and will give you the best driving experience possible. They are known for their sports performance while being comfortable and reliable. Keeping your BMW in the best working order should be a priority. It is important that you stay current on the service schedule and maintenance requirements.

The suspension technology of BMW provides you will a smooth ride. Driving over rough roads and terrain isn’t a problem for this vehicle. Even though it keeps your ride comfortable, the suspension receives a lot of wear and needs to be taken care of. An essential part of the suspension system is the ball joint. It is an often overlooked component of your vehicle when it comes to regular maintenance, but this important piece needs to be checked regularly. Here at Euro Automotive, we know how to properly take care of your BMW and its ball joints.

What is a ball joint?

A ball joint holds together the front suspension. It is a pivot point that allows for a limited range of movement between the suspension and the wheels. It is an important component that keeps your wheels from moving freely. If this part breaks, the outcome could be disastrous due to the fact that the wheels cannot be controlled. When the ball joint fails, the tires typically turn outward and damage the fender.

What are the causes of ball joint failure?

Everyday Use:  Just like any moving part, ball joints experience wear. Normal everyday use is the main cause of ball joint damage. Joints that are not properly greased will fail quicker due to excess friction.

Environmental Factors:  The environment plays a large role in ball joint failure. Excess heat can dry up the oil that is used to keep the joint lubricated. On the other hand, rain and high humidity can cause damage to the steel and the joints can break.

Damaged Seals:  Old seals will crack or break over time. Defective seals cannot protect the joint and will allow the oil to leak and debris and dirt to get through.

Common Signs of a Defective Ball Joint

If the ball joints in your BMW are damaged, you will feel it in the suspension. The ride will no longer be as smooth as it once was and you may hear strange noises and feel vibrations. Below are some of the common signs of a defective ball joint. If you notice any of these symptoms, call us to schedule an appointment today.

Irregular Tire Wear:  If your BMW is properly aligned, your tires should wear evenly. If one edge is wearing more than the other edge this can be a sign of a worn ball joint.

Vibrations:  Vibrations can also be a symptom of a failing ball joint. When a ball joint is loose in the socket, this vibration can occur. The vibration will usually only come from one side of the vehicle and can often be sensed in the steering wheel.

Clunking Noises:  As a ball joint wears, it becomes loose in its socket. When driving on rough roads or making turns, the loose ball joint can make clunking noises. This is the most common sign of a failing ball joint.

Loose Steering Wheel:  A wandering steering wheel can be caused by a worn-out ball joint. If the car is properly aligned, it shouldn’t wander back and forth on its own. This can be dangerous since it is hard to keep the vehicle heading straight.

Call us Today

Here at Euro Automotive, we can access the ball joint failure in your BMW. Our mechanics specialize in luxury European auto and repair services. Whether you are experiencing ball joint failure or just need to have your car serviced, we are here to help. There’s no need for your take your BMW to a dealer and pay their high prices. We can do everything that they can do, and we can do it cheaper.

Call us today to schedule your appointment. You can reach us on 214-956-7744. You can visit us at 3421 W. Northwest Hwy. We proudly service the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.

Reasons Your Throttle Control Warning Light Illuminates in Dallas

Posted on | 24 Jul 2019 By Anita Gaal

With most vehicles today, everything is electronic. This means if you experience an issue, you will probably have a warning light on your dashboard that is illuminated. Whether it is a low tire, failing oxygen sensor, or your throttle control, everything operates independently and alerts the driver if there is a problem.

What is the Throttle Control System?

In the 1980s, emissions control and fuel economy regulations came into the spotlight. The laws regarding them became stricter. Before then, when you pushed down on the accelerator pedal, the throttle opened. This allowed air to flow to the engine where it mixed with the gas, allowing it to burn.

Once regulations were put into place, vehicle manufacturers began to use the electronic throttle control system. This system uses electronic signals instead of mechanical signals. When you push down on the accelerator, you are activating a module instead of opening the throttle. This signal is sent to a control unit that takes variables into account, which then opens the throttle. This allows for better efficiency as well as performance.

Why is the light on?

There are several issues that might have triggered the light illumination. By taking your vehicle to a certified mechanic, they will be able to diagnose the issue and get it fixed for you.

Symptoms of a Failing or Bad Throttle Control

Most issues are due to a damaged sensor or an electrical relay. The throttle control doesn’t usually go bad, but there are instances when it can fail and will need to be replaced. Below are a few symptoms of a failing or bad throttle control.

Intermittent Acceleration Issues

Since the throttle is controlled by an electrical signal, any disruption can lead to acceleration issues. This can be an inconvenience and can also be dangerous. If you are experiencing acceleration issues, your car could stall or you may not be able to get out of harm’s way fast enough. These issues can be deadly.

We do not recommend that you drive your car if you are having acceleration issues. You should have it towed to our shop to run diagnostics and get it fixed where it is safe to drive.

Hesitation

If you try to accelerate and your vehicle doesn’t respond right away, you could have a failing throttle control. There are other issues that can cause this problem so have it checked out right away.

Just as with intermittent acceleration issues, hesitation can be very serious. Don’t get yourself in a bind by driving it and having an accident. Have it towed to a trusted shop to be fixed properly.

Cannot Pick Up Speed

If you are pressing down on the throttle pedal and you cannot accelerate faster than a slow crawl, this can indicate that the electronic throttle control has failed. This is a feature that has been put in place to help protect your engine.

Changes in Your Fuel Economy

Since the throttle control regulates the air to fuel ratio, if there is a problem, it will not function properly. This can cause you to burn more gas. By keeping track of your fuel mileage, you can keep an eye out for issues.

Should You Continue to Drive Your Car

We do not recommend that you continue to drive your car if you have any of the above issues. If your throttle control is failing or has failed, there is a chance that you won’t be able to accelerate or you won’t be able to stop accelerating. Both can have deadly consequences.

Bring your car into our BBB Accredited Business and Bosch certified service center. Let our knowledgeable mechanics take a look at your issue and get it fixed right the first time.

Call Us Today

Here at Euro Automotive, we specialize in luxury European auto and repair services. Whether you are experiencing throttle control issues or are in need of repairs or routine service, we are here to help you. Many people believe that they have to take their car to a dealer to have work performed, but that is not the case. We can do it for you properly, and we can do it cheaper.

Call us today to schedule your appointment. You can reach us on 214-956-7744. You can visit us at 3421 W. Northwest Hwy. We proudly service the areas of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX.