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.

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 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.

How to Fix a Broken Moon Roof of a Car in Texas

Posted on | 14 Mar 2017 By Anita Gaal

In recent years, Texas is becoming even more developed as far as population and city living are concerned. This is partly due to the beautiful weather, and sometimes it can even get a little hot—temperatures breaking one hundred degrees are not uncommon. For those of us that love to drive down the highway with our windows down, taking in the gorgeous surroundings and beauty of Texas may very well have been the reason for moving there in the first place—it may even be the reason why you specifically purchased a car with a moon roof. However, when your awesome moon roof dies out on you, your leisurely days of enjoying the beautiful Texas weather may seem over with. Luckily, this does not have to be the end of your moon roof—fixing a broken moon roof may be simpler than you think. If you are unable to fix it yourself, then you should find qualified professionals who specialize in window repairs and can help you get your days of highway glory back. Here are a few possible reasons why your moon roof may be broken, and some suggestions on how to fix it.

Check whether moon roof is completely broken or not

You roll down your windows, and are ready to breathe in the fresh air and feel the warm sun on your shoulders as soon as you open your moon roof. You push the button, and to your dismay, all you hear is a sad sound indicating that your moon roof is broken. Before jumping to conclusions, it is entirely possible that the moon roof is not completely broken, but only stuck. Prepare yourself for a little bit of labor, and if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, rightfully so. So look into asking a professional to check it out for you.

D-I-Y Tips

The first thing you will want to do is evacuate the glass portion of the roof. You will need a screwdriver to take out the screws that are holding the glass. Once the glass is removed, you should put it on a cushioned area, being careful not to scratch or break it. With the help of a flashlight, take a closer look at the inner structures of the moon roof—do you see any broken pieces or anything impeding the movement of the gears inside? You can double check by messing around with the moon roof button to see if anything is not working properly. A can of dust-off is helpful to spray out any dust or debris.

Take professional help, if you’re unsure

In the worst-case scenario, the motor in your moon roof may be broken; this is why it is important to first exhaust all other possible options. If you are unsure of whether or not it is the motor that is broken, you should take your car to a repair shop that can perform a diagnostic and help assess the situation; but keep in mind that each attempt to fix the problem yourself could only add to your expenses. It is important to know whether or not it is simply an issue of debris or grease buildup, or if the issue is bigger—like a motor malfunction. Luckily, the occurrence of motors in moon roofs completely failing is infrequent, unless you are really getting the most use out of your moon roof, everyday, or your kids got ahold of the button, pressing it until its death.

Find an exact replacement motor

Motors for moon roofs are relatively inexpensive on their own and are usually within the range of a few hundred dollars. What becomes more costly is the act of replacing it. If you are feeling adventurous and decide to replace it yourself, you will save the most money. However, depending on the model and year of your car and what shop you decide to take it to, this simple repair can become a larger expense than initially imagined. If your motor truly is broken, it is best to order the part on your own, and give it a try—you may be surprised at your ability to replace the motor on your own. Although, it is important to keep in mind that not all moon roofs are created equally. Finding an exact replacement motor for your moon roof is ideal—finding the serial number and brand will help you find an identical match. By bringing your car to a local shop in Dallas, you can get some much-needed information and help with your broken moon roof.