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What is an electric vehicle exactly?

All-electric vehicles are powered by an electric motor that is powered by a battery. Up until EVs were made available to the public, vehicles have always been powered by an internal combustion engine. 

How does an electric vehicle work? 

Electric vehicles use a large traction battery pack for power. This requires the car to be plugged into an electric wall outlet to charge the battery, versus going to the gas station and getting gas in a tank. This electrical power eliminates any exhaust being emitted from the fuel components typical of an internal combustible engine. 

What components do electric vehicles have instead of fuel-associated components? 

Instead of the traditional fuel lines, fuel pumps, or fuel tanks, electric vehicles have the following components that power them:

• Battery: Electric vehicles have an auxiliary battery that provides electrical power to the vehicle.
• Charging Port: The charging port is where electric vehicles are connected to an external power supply that charges the traction battery pack.
• DC/DC Converter: Electric vehicles need this device to convert higher-voltage DC power from the traction battery pack to lower-voltage DC power that runs the accessories and recharges the auxiliary battery.
• Electric Traction Motor: This motor drives the wheels on electric vehicles with the power from the traction battery.
• Onboard Charger: Incoming AC electricity is needed to supply power via the charge port, converting it to DC power that charges the traction battery. This component also keeps communication between the charging equipment while it monitors the battery currents, temperature, voltage, and level of the charge. pack.
• Power Electronics Controller: This component manages the electric energy flow the traction battery provides and controls the speed of the electric traction motor and torque produced.
• The Cooling System: The cooling system needs to maintain a proper operating temperature range for the engine and electric motor as well as the power electronics, and components.
• Traction Battery Pack: This stores the electricity that is built up during charging for the electric traction motor.
• Transmission: The electric transmission transfers mechanical power from the electric traction motor to drive the wheels. 

What are the benefits of electric vehicles?

If you’re considering trading your combustible engine vehicle for one of the electric vehicles on the market today, you can look forward to these benefits: 

• No more trips to the gas station! Instead of paying that ever-increasing amount per gallon, you’ll pay per kW, which is averaging 10 cents per kW for every dollar per gallon. 
• Friendlier to the environment because there aren’t any pollutants being emitted as you drive. 
• Less maintenance with an electric motor compared to a combustible engine. This equals less cost for operation! 
• Electric vehicles have been shown to have better performance and faster acceleration.

What is the range of electric vehicles?

We can’t provide exact numbers to the range expected from electric vehicles just like we can’t provide the exact number on the mileage of a combustible engine vehicle. These numbers can vary based on the driver’s driving habits mainly, but at the end of 2022, electric vehicles were getting a distance range of just over 200 miles. 

What do electric vehicles cost? 

Well, we don’t have exact dollar amounts because the cost of electric vehicles can vary on the upgrades you order with your car. The same is to be said of traditional gas-powered vehicles! We can tell you they do cost more upfront, but considering what it will save you from NOT having to fill the gas tank, the ROI is apparent! And the cost of electric vehicles is getting lower and lower every year as production ramps up.

How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?

The electricity rates are subject to many factors, with the area where you live being the first factor. The time-of-day electric vehicles are charged, and the time of the year can be a factor in determining the cost of charging too. Most drivers of electric vehicles recommend charging your car at home during the night for the best rate!

What are the environmental benefits of electric vehicles? 

The obvious is less pollution from no fuel emitting fumes! There is also the noise factor – electric vehicles operate quieter than gas-powered vehicles. Some say this can be a danger for pedestrians stepping off a curb when they don’t hear a car coming around the corner. 

In Closing: Reliability and Safety

As a person who may have driven nothing but gas-powered cars, you may be concerned with the reliability and safety of electric vehicles. Just like gas-powered vehicles when they are first released, electric vehicles aren’t as reliable either. They have to work through their issues and problems, take those back to the drawing board, and improve on them. When it comes to safety, just like all vehicles, there are federal regulations to be met before they are released to the public. 

What are the most common repairs needed by electric vehicles?

So, as electric cars become more popular on the roadways, so will the electric car repairs. They may be considered to be more sophisticated than traditional combustion engine cars, but that new technology can be complicated. This means today’s mechanics and technicians need to refresh their training. 

But for now, with the EV-trained mechanics and technicians that are in the field today, the following are the most common issues they are seeing in regard to electric vehicle repairs today: 

• Brake Failure

This isn’t a good thing no matter how a car is powered. The brakes on an electric car are a regenerative brake system that uses kinetic energy. Regenerative brakes are more durable than traditional brake pads, but they fail too and become warped as the driver tends to solely rely on them. If they aren’t functioning right, as the driver decelerates instead of depending on the brake system, it places them and their passengers in danger. However, the battery can be the cause of the brakes on an EV not working properly too. Only a trained mechanic or engineer can determine the problem and make the proper electric vehicle repair. 

• Replacing the Electric Battery 

The average lifespan of an EV car battery is between 10 and 15 years or up to 10,000 miles. Once an EV battery begins to wear out or become extensively overheated, it must be replaced. Because this is an electric vehicle, the battery must be in top-notch condition. Yes, they can be jumped, but that drains the ‘juice’ inside the batter, and repeated jump-starting will deplete the juice, requiring a new battery. The bad news about electric vehicle repairs, the battery is the most expensive repair you’ll have with your EV. This only strengthens the advice to have your EV regularly inspected by a trusted mechanic or technician for diagnosing the potential problem and making whatever electric car repair is needed. 

This brings us to the question “How often should electric vehicle batteries be replaced?” While EV batteries are expensive, most EV batteries have a lifespan between 15 and 20 years before a replacement is needed. 

• Battery Cables

Just as the battery is essential to your EV, the battery cables are essential to the battery. They are vulnerable to the weather and can erode over time. Because of this, they need to be inspected on a regular schedule to check for wear and tear that can affect the EV vehicle’s overall performance.

If the battery cables in your EV have any of the following, schedule an appointment for authorized electric vehicle repair: 

• The lights are dim.
• The engine is slow to crank.
• The engine won’t stay running.
• There is only a clicking sound and the car won’t start.

Your mechanic will make a close inspection, checking for brittle, decomposing insulation, and green or white powdery substance around the cables.  This will lead them to check the overall battery health and determine if your electric car repair will require new cables and/or a new battery.

• Fluid Refill

No more trips to the gas pumps don’t mean your EV doesn’t have other fluids to have checked. This includes brake fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. If you take your EV to your mechanic for any issue, it is recommended to request they check all the fluids. This can minimize the chances that you’ll be back for electric vehicle repairs later.

• Operating System 

Today’s new cars have computers on board and EVs rely a lot more on a computer which creates unique issues with their operating system.  There are several types of issues, but the most common is unresponsiveness to the touch and dead pixels. Only qualified mechanics or technicians should attempt any electric vehicle repairs when it comes to the operating system. 

How much does it cost to repair an electric vehicle? 

The cost of electric vehicle repairs can’t be guessed because it is still a new industry. While owning an EV is said to be less expensive than owning a gas-fueled vehicle. But, they still have the basic wear-and-tear of lights, tires, and windshield wiper blades. ,

If an EV is damaged in a wreck, however, it typically requires the battery to be replaced, as well as the damaged body parts. As we stated earlier, the battery on an EV is one of the most expensive parts. 

What is an electric vehicle exactly?

All-electric vehicles are powered by an electric motor that is powered by a battery. Up until EVs were made available to the public, vehicles have always been powered by an internal combustion engine. 

How does an electric vehicle work? 

Electric vehicles use a large traction battery pack for power. This requires the car to be plugged into an electric wall outlet to charge the battery, versus going to the gas station and getting gas in a tank. This electrical power eliminates any exhaust being emitted from the fuel components typical of an internal combustible engine. 

What components do electric vehicles have instead of fuel-associated components? 

Instead of the traditional fuel lines, fuel pumps, or fuel tanks, electric vehicles have the following components that power them:

• Battery: Electric vehicles have an auxiliary battery that provides electrical power to the vehicle.
• Charging Port: The charging port is where electric vehicles are connected to an external power supply that charges the traction battery pack.
• DC/DC Converter: Electric vehicles need this device to convert higher-voltage DC power from the traction battery pack to lower-voltage DC power that runs the accessories and recharges the auxiliary battery.
• Electric Traction Motor: This motor drives the wheels on electric vehicles with the power from the traction battery.
• Onboard Charger: Incoming AC electricity is needed to supply power via the charge port, converting it to DC power that charges the traction battery. This component also keeps communication between the charging equipment while it monitors the battery currents, temperature, voltage, and level of the charge. pack.
• Power Electronics Controller: This component manages the electric energy flow the traction battery provides and controls the speed of the electric traction motor and torque produced.
• The Cooling System: The cooling system needs to maintain a proper operating temperature range for the engine and electric motor as well as the power electronics, and components.
• Traction Battery Pack: This stores the electricity that is built up during charging for the electric traction motor.
• Transmission: The electric transmission transfers mechanical power from the electric traction motor to drive the wheels. 

What are the benefits of electric vehicles?

If you’re considering trading your combustible engine vehicle for one of the electric vehicles on the market today, you can look forward to these benefits: 

• No more trips to the gas station! Instead of paying that ever-increasing amount per gallon, you’ll pay per kW, which is averaging 10 cents per kW for every dollar per gallon. 
• Friendlier to the environment because there aren’t any pollutants being emitted as you drive. 
• Less maintenance with an electric motor compared to a combustible engine. This equals less cost for operation! 
• Electric vehicles have been shown to have better performance and faster acceleration.

What is the range of electric vehicles?

We can’t provide exact numbers to the range expected from electric vehicles just like we can’t provide the exact number on the mileage of a combustible engine vehicle. These numbers can vary based on the driver’s driving habits mainly, but at the end of 2022, electric vehicles were getting a distance range of just over 200 miles. 

What do electric vehicles cost? 

Well, we don’t have exact dollar amounts because the cost of electric vehicles can vary on the upgrades you order with your car. The same to be said of traditional gas-powered vehicles! We can tell you they do cost more upfront, but considering what it will save you from NOT having to fill the gas tank, the ROI is apparent! And the cost of electric vehicles is getting lower and lower every year as production ramps up.

How much does it cost to charge an electric vehicle?

The electricity rates are subject to many factors, with the area where you live being the first factor. The time-of-day electric vehicles are charged, and the time of the year can be a factor in determining the cost of charging too. Most drivers of electric vehicles recommend charging your car at home during the night for the best rate!

What are the environmental benefits of electric vehicles? 

The obvious is less pollution from no fuel emitting fumes! There is also the noise factor – electric vehicles operate quieter than gas-powered vehicles. Some say this can be a danger for pedestrians stepping off a curb when they don’t hear a car coming around the corner. 

Do electric cars cost more?

As of May 2022, yes, an electric vehicle cost around $10,000 more than a gas-powered vehicle. Like anything new though, the more that are sold, the price will begin to drop. In the meantime, if you’re really wanting to go all-electric, there are tax incentives up to $7,500 that can ease the sticker price pain. You need to do some research on which electric vehicle will get you the most tax incentive.

Are electric cars worth the investment?

The electric vehicle market was cornered by Toyota first with the Prius, but then Tesla gave electric vehicles an appealing, sleek appearance that made them the popular “I gotta have one!” vehicles. Today, General Motors and other big car manufacturers have their own electric vehicles on the market. 

If the current administration has their way, over half of us will own and drive one by 2030. So, yes, there are some benefits to owning an electric vehicle, but do these benefits make it worth the investment? Maybe for some, but not everyone. Of course, as it has been said, you can’t please everyone. 

What are the benefits of an electric vehicle?

There are several benefits to owning an electric vehicle, with the most obvious one being, no more gas pump visits, if you get an all-electric version. With the price of gas today, this benefit may be pulling more buyers in than ever before. But there are other benefits to examine: 

• Convenience: No worry about leaving early in the morning to get gas. Simply plug your electric vehicle in when you get home and you’ll be powered up and ready in the morning! 

• Savings: Not only will not be paying that high cost at the pump, but the government will give you some money back for going green with an electric vehicle. 

• No Emissions: With an all-electric vehicle, no fossil fuel is emitting toxic fumes into the environment. Even if you go with a hybrid (combustion and electric powered), you’ll still be emitting less of those toxic fumes. 

• Popular: Back in the late 1970s, the popular kids drove a 442 by Oldsmobile. Today, the electric vehicle is taking that position in the school parking lot. Everyone will want to be ‘that cool dude’ sooner or later.

• Safety: Vehicle manufacturers put their electric vehicles through the same rigorous testing that they do their fuel-powered vehicles. A key difference in safety is the low center of gravity of electric vehicles gives them more stability if they are involved in a wreck, i.e., less likely to roll over. And if the airbags are deployed, the electric power is automatically shut off from the battery, reducing the possibility of an explosion. 

• Cost-Effective: So, do electric cars cost more? Yes, but because they are becoming more commonplace and the technology of manufacturing electric vehicles has improved, the cost is coming down. The batteries that were once a hindrance to purchasing these cars are mass-produced now, and the government is offering tax incentives when you purchase an electric vehicle. 

• Minimal Maintenance: Electric vehicles do not need the same amount of maintenance as gas-powered cars because the engine doesn’t rely on being lubricated. 

• Noise Pollution Reduced: The noise pollution of electric vehicles is almost 100% nil and void. They offer a smooth drive and higher acceleration. 

• The Battery: Yes, the battery for an electric vehicle has been the ‘sore spot’ to keep these cars from being more popular, but they are integral for an electric vehicle. A good lithium-ion battery can last for 10 years, and with the improvements in technology every year, the cost of those will be coming down more.

How long does an electric car have to charge?

It depends on the battery size and the charging point speed, but it can range between 30 minutes and 12 hours or longer. A typical 60kWh battery can charge in under 8 hours from a 7kW charging point when the battery is completely empty. Like adding gas when your car is at ¼ tank, most electric vehicle owners will charge up the battery before it is completely empty. For many electric vehicles, a rapid charger of 50kW can add approximately 100 miles of range in just over half an hour. The bigger the battery, the longer it takes to charge up from empty. 

What are the different types of electric vehicles?

There are three primary types of electric vehicles. They are classified by the level of electricity used for their energy source.  Those three types are: 

• Electric (BEV)

A Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is an all-electric vehicle, with electricity being its only power using a rechargeable battery.  

• Plug-In Hybrid

A Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) electric vehicle has a medium-sized electric battery that powers the engine, and it has a diesel or petrol engine as well, allowing the driver to switch between power sources based on needs.  

• Hybrid 

A Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) has an electric battery where the power is selected by the engine and doesn’t have to be recharged with an external power supply station.  

Are there any cons to owning an electric vehicle?

Yes, there are cons to the electric vehicle that you should consider before making this investment, some of which are: 

1. Recharging points are few and far between, so if you live or traveling through a rural area, electric vehicles may not be right for you at this time. 

2. The Initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle is high, even with the tax incentive, the upfront cost is an issue for most. 

3. Recharging isn’t free, meaning it will hit your electric bill. 

4. The driving range and speed of an electric vehicle can hinder your driving style. You’ll go maybe 100 miles before you need to recharge. 

5. Recharge time take longer than filling up the tank with gas. Instead of less than 10 minutes, you’re looking up to 6 hours. 

6. The silence can be a disadvantage because nobody can hear you coming, and this has led to many accidents.

7. Two-seater only for electric vehicles, so may not be the vehicle you need for a family.

8. Replacing the battery is needed every three to ten years for all-electric vehicles. 

How long will a electric car last?

Car manufacturers claim electric vehicles can last 8 years or longer, up to 100,000 miles. Since cell phones don’t last that long for most of us, it’s kind of hard to imagine this still, but time will tell! 

In Closing – You Have To Wonder

With all this hype and push for going with all-electric vehicles, just how much money can an electric vehicle save you on gas? Because the price of gas fluctuates daily, especially right now, it is hard to quote dollars to answer this question. 
In March, in the state of California, electric vehicle owners could save up to $1200 by not needing fuel, but in other states, electric vehicles saved car owners just under $1,000. Again, these aren’t numbers to take to the bank! Again, only time will tell you what you could save.

European Plus provides assistance with an electric vehicle in Hopewell and Pennington, NJ. Call 609-737-7226 for more information.

There are a few different types of electric cars, and how an electric car works will vary depending on the type of car it is: 

• HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicles are motorized by both an internal combustion engine and used the battery-stored energy for an electric motor. This electric car can’t be charged with a battery charge, but instead requires regenerative braking and an internal combustion engine.
• PHEV: Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles are motorized by batteries and either gasoline or diesel that powers an internal combustion engine. This type of electric car charges the batteries through both charging equipment and regenerative braking.
• EV: All-Electric Vehicles are plugged into a charging point, using the same electricity we do for our homes and store the electricity in rechargeable batteries that make the car move. 

Do electric cars need repairs often?

The EVs cars (all-electric) require less maintenance because the battery, motor, and all associated electronics require little to no maintenance. There are fewer fluids that need to be checked or have routine maintenance, like motor oil and with the regenerative braking, less maintenance is needed. Because there are fewer moving parts, electric car repairs are fewer too. 

The maintenance needs HEVs (hybrid electric vehicles) and PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) are comparable to conventional vehicles. An EV (all-electric vehicle) requires fewer maintenance needs for all the same reasons, and they have fewer moving parts than a conventional gas-powered engine. In all types of electric-powered cars, the manufacturers have designed these vehicles with safety at the core and vehicle maintenance second. 

Are electric cars expensive to repair?

Well, you know that purchasing an electric car will cost you more than purchasing a gas-powered car, But, in the long run, when it comes to electric car repair and maintenance, you’ll save money. 

A study that was conducted found that with fewer moving parts, by the 3^rd year of ownership, they were the more economical choice of vehicles. Here are some numbers to consider: 

• Fuel-powered car over 3 years ownership, $800 in service and repairs.
• Electric-powered car over 3 years ownership, $500 in electric car repairs and services. 

That is a saving of over 30% less, however, in the first year of electric car repairs, the diagnostic costs made them the more expensive choice. 

Is charging an electric car cheaper than gas?

Like anything, when comparing costs of ownership, there are several factors to be considered, and that is true of electric cars. The following factors should be considered when answering this question: 

• The type of engine is a key factor role.  

• The size of the vehicle is a consideration too. The heavier the car, the more fuel to make it move. 

• Per vehicle fuel economy as to how far it can go on a certain amount of fuel. 

• Government regulation and the taxes you’re paying at the pump. 

• For the electric car, home charging versus public charging stations.

• Energy prices versus EV charging.

• Fast charging options costs. 

What are the pros and cons between an electric vs hybrid car? 

When it comes to making the purchase, it is a personal choice, however, we have do have some pros and cons for you to consider before purchasing a hybrid car: 

The Pros: 

• Environmentally friendly
• Saves money
• Quiet
• Less maintenance

The Cons:

• Higher upfront to purchase
• Electric car repair and maintenance is rare but can be expensive
• Still produces fossil fuel emission

What is the most reliable electric car?

Each year, car manufacturers are coming out with more models, giving you the choice between the average car, luxury, or even a sports style. Here are seven of the most popular electric cars on the streets for 2022: 

• Kia Niro EV
• Chevrolet Bolt EV
• Honda Insight
• Hyundai Kona Electric
• Nissan LEAF
• Toyota Prius Prime
• Ford Mustang Mach-E

What is the lifespan of an electric car?

There have been Tesla owners reporting over 400,000 miles, but every driver will have a different experience, just as with gas-powered cars. The average lifespan of an electric car has been reported to be fifteen years with over 160,000 miles on the road. 

What are the indications that it is time for brake repair? 

While it is important for the engine, transmission, and wheels all to be in good working order, the brakes are just as important, maybe even more so. The average time between brake pads being replaced is every 25,000 miles to 65,000 miles, and brake rotors typically need to be replaced between 30,000 miles to 70,000 miles. The driving conditions and the driver’s style will cause a difference in these numbers. 

A good thing about car brakes, is there are symptoms that will let you know it is time to schedule a car brake repair appointment. The key is for you to be aware of these five symptoms and not ignore them: 

1. Squeaking or Squealing 

As brake pads near the end of their life, they will begin executing a squeaking or squealing sound when you activate them. This is usually because the brake pads are worn down. You will hear a grinding noise eventually if you keep driving, which can cause more damage and it becomes more dangerous to be driving too. Scheduling a car brake repairs appointment sooner than later is recommended.

2. Grinding

As we just mentioned, ignore that squealing and squeaking sound, you will begin hearing a grinding sound when you press on the brakes. This noise means the brake pads are worn and your brakes are what is called “metal to metal”, meaning there is no brake bad left. You need a car brake repair now; waiting is no longer an option. 

3. Vibration 

If you feel a vibration from your brakes as you press on them, the brake rotors have warped after you’ve ignored the other signs, and a professional car brake repair is your only option. 

4. Slow Stopping

As you apply your brakes, if they aren’t stopping right away, it may be because the brake fluid level is low. Take your car to the mechanic and have them check the fluid. If they add fluid and the brakes start having a slow response again, you may have a leak in the brake line, or the master cylinder may be going out. Can you repair a brake master cylinder? 

Yes, the master cylinder is a common car brake repair. It is usually a matter of replacing the seals. Once that is done, the mechanic will “bleed” the brakes, which is getting all air out of the lines. Can you repair brake hoses? The brake line will need to be replaced. Again, once the line is replaced, the mechanic will “bleed” the air from the brake system. 

5. Brake Light 

Cars today come with a warning light when the brakes need attention. There is the ABS (anti lock braking system) light, the emergency brake light, and the main brake system light. When these lights won’t go off, you need to have your car’s brake system inspected for possible car brake repair. 

Can you repair brake calipers?

Brake caliper kits are expensive car brake repairs that expand the lifespan of a car’s braking system. By 75,000 miles or a car that is 10 years old, it is time to have the entire braking system inspected and possibly rebuild or replace the brake calipers. By that time, the rubber seals have hardened with age, and the caliper could begin to leak or stick, becoming ineffective. 

Can you repair a brake switch?

Yes, and it is one of the easiest car brake repairs possible. The brake switch is found near the tip of the brake pedal, easy to reach and the new brake switch simply snaps in. There aren’t any special tools needed and many car owners can do their own for under $20. Or if your mechanic does the job, it may cost $50.00 for labor and part. 

How much is a full brake repair?

The make and model of a car will be a factor in car brake repair jobs, as well as the problem with the brake system. Some brake repair jobs can cost up to $1,000 with an average between $300 to $800. 

How much is brake repair on a BMW?

Yes, BMW car brake repairs are common, and very likely will be one of those $1,000 or more brake jobs. A BMW front brake pads and rotors repair job can range between $500 and $900 while the rear brake pads and rotors can cost between $450 and $800. 

What is the most important maintenance for a car?

Any part of basic vehicle maintenance is important. Fortunately, some of these maintenance tasks can be done by you in your garage. But some maintenance tasks should be done by a professional mechanic. A vehicle maintenance checklist should include:

Taking Care of the Tires

The tires are essential to your safety and for better handling on the road. Tires in poor condition can be dangerous for you and your passengers. Things in your tires that should be maintained include: 

• Tire pressure
• Tire rotation
• Tire condition
• Uneven wear
• Spare tire 

Checking and Changing Fluids

The following fluids should be checked and/or changed by a professional every 5,000 miles and checked for a refill about once a week: 

• Motor oil
• Brake fluid
• Antifreeze or coolant 
• Transmission
• Power Steering
• Washer fluids

Checking the Battery

Having a dead battery when you need to get to work is not fun. Part of routine vehicle maintenance should include checking the battery to make sure it is in proper working order. This includes checking to be certain the cables are clean and firmly connected. A mechanic can check the amount of power output the battery has stored.

Checking the Lights

One easy vehicle maintenance task you can easily do on your own is checking the exterior and interior lights. Make sure that all headlights, brake lights, blinker lights, and fog lights are in working order. Get a new light immediately if you notice a problem.

The Annual Inspection

Most states require an annual inspection, making it one of the most important parts of your vehicle maintenance. This allows a trained mechanic to check that all components are in working condition. This can be a good time to get the spark plugs changed, radiator flushed, the timing belt checked, and the fuel filter changed. 

 What needs to be changed when servicing a car?

In a proper vehicle maintenance program, the first thing that should be changed is the motor oil following the car manufacturer’s recommendations. Other basic fluid changes during routine vehicle maintenance include the following: 

• Brake fluid
• Engine coolant
• Power steering fluid 

Checking the radiator for anti-freeze concentration is also crucial in keeping a car well-maintained.

What is vehicle maintenance and repair?

The difference between vehicle maintenance vs repair is that vehicle maintenance will keep you from needing vehicle repair! By having the fluids checked, changed, or added, along with taking care of tasks such as checking the tires and the different filters in a car, you can avoid most vehicle repair needs. 

If you have kept up with maintenance, vehicle repair is typically only needed when there is mechanical trouble, like the engine overheating or if you’ve noticed a knocking sound in the engine. With routine vehicle maintenance, those things are far less likely to happen.

How long can you go without servicing your car?

This can vary between different cars and how well they are built. Your driving habits and styles will also make a difference in how long a car will last, with or without vehicle maintenance. Most engines can tolerate skipping vehicle maintenance for up to 5,000 miles on average.

Does vehicle maintenance save you money?

Absolutely! With routinely scheduled vehicle maintenance, the engine will run better. ith By having the oil changed, your gas mileage will improve. With the right air pressure and a new air filter, you could see far greater fuel efficiency. 

Can you service your car yourself?

A DIY car owner that is handy with automotive equipment and tools can do most of their own vehicle maintenance. Many “shade tree” mechanics prefer to do their own. If you own a brand new car, you’ll need to keep receipts of when you take care of tasks like the oil change and other basic vehicle maintenance jobs for warranty purposes. 

Under the Hood

Getting a visual on the following is your base starting point:

• Battery
• Belts
• Vacuum hoses
• Any obvious broken, frayed, loose, or missing bolts, nuts, studs, or wiring 
• Any signs of fuel, oil, or other liquid leaks
• Check the oil
• Check the coil, distributor, PVC valve, spark plugs and wires (if applicable) 
• Check the radiator for dirt, rust, etc.

Pretesting Procedures

There are some engine testing procedures that the ignition needs to be disabled. A mechanic will connect a remote starter before beginning the engine performance process. 

Start the Engine

Sometimes, a lot can be determined about the engine performance just by hearing it start and run. Things you want to note are: 

• Uneven cranking sound
• Rattling sounds
• Squealing sounds
• Rumbling sounds
• Smoke from engine or tailpipe (note the color black, blue or white)
• Hissing sounds

 Alternator, Battery, and Starter Testing

Prior to starting the engine, a mechanic will perform some basic tests at the same time to get an accurate test. This will include recording the battery voltage, disabling the ignition system, record the starter draw, battery crank voltage and the cranking rpm. 

These steps give the mechanic an overall general view of the battery capacity, starter condition and the combined ability of both components in cranking the engine at a acceptable speed. Any sign of weakness during this preliminary testing can often be an indicator of the engine performance issues. 

After starting the engine, the mechanic will record the alternator’s performance, starting with the recovery voltage and amperage. With the engine running at 2500 rpm, they will record the CO, CO2, HC, and O2. Getting a combined reading of these four gases are key in troubleshooting an engine performance. 

Compression, Power Balance and Vacuum Testing

Several basic engine performance problems can be determined checking these three things. The idle at a low cruising speed of 1800 to 2200 rpm, and the idel at a high cruising speed of 2500 to 3000 rpm.

Cylinder Leakage and Ignition Testing

Cylinder leakage testing is used when the mechanic finds a weak cylinder with the previous tests. If further testing finds the cylinder is leaking, this will affect engine performance and an engine teardown will be required. When putting the engine back together, other things will be assessed, and performance engine parts can be used to improve the engine performance. 

How can I add more horsepower to my car?

Maybe you can’t afford a professional mechanic to get more from your car’s engine performance. Or you just like doing it yourself, with a few extra dollars and a weekend with no other plans, the following 5 steps will improve your car’s engine performance: 

• Upgrade the Air Intake: First step in getting more power from your car’s engine performance, improve the cold-air intake. How does a cold air intake improve performance? The engine is basically a large air pump. The more air that comes in, the more power goes out. Eliminating and minimizing restrictive air passages, like sharp bends, increased the airflow that will trigger the engine computer to give the car fuel in the air/fuel mix, meaning more horsepower.  .
• Upgrade the Exhaust: When there is more air going in, more needs to exit. Upgrading to a performance level exhaust system. If your car has a catalytic converter, you want to upgrade that to a high-flow model.  
• Engine Tune-Up and Performance chips: The performance chips are tuners that plug into the diagnostic port and modify the fuel and timing which increase the engine performance. You’ll lose your fuel economy in most cases.  
• Install a Boost Controller: If the car engine is equipped with a turbocharger the factory setting allows it to deliver a specific amount of boost per square inch. An engine boost controller installed will adjust that boost level for engine performance.  
• Use Synthetic Oil: The boosted horsepower will improve the engine performance, but it may be able to handle the harmful deposits that occur naturally. By upgrading to a synthetic oil, the engine will be lubricated by the synthetics, and improve the wear and tear on the engine because the internal friction is lessened. 

How can I improve my engine performance?

In addition to the things we’ve mentioned above, like getting an engine tune up, adding performance chips, upgrading the air intake and exhaust, for ways on how to improve car engine performance, look online or visit your neighborhood auto parts store for small engine performance kits. Other things you can do for better engine performance are: 

• CHANGE THE SPARK PLUGS – Spark plugs are inside the cylinder heads. They are what ignites the fuel to create the combustion that makes the engine run. Without spark plugs, you aren’t going anywhere. Over time, the spark plugs corrode and get dirty, start to wear out. While they are still doing their part of making your car go, they aren’t doing it as efficiently as they should, which affects the engine performance. With regular spark plug changes, you will improve your car’s engine performance. 
• RECUDE THE WEIGHT – No, this won’t give your car ore horsepower, but it will improve the engine performance because it isn’t having to move the car AND everything inside the car and trunk. Clean out unnecessary stuff in the trunk, and if you never have passengers, the only seat you need is the driver’s seat. You don’t see race cars with passenger seats! 
• EXHAUST HEADERS & MANIFOLDS – Better engine performance is all about better airflow, coming in and going out of the engine. The stock exhaust manifolds from the factory are required to meet government mandated emissions requirements. These requirements will not give optimum engine performance. Change out the header to a long-tube style and you’ll notice immediate improvement in the horsepower and with the RPMs.

These are things you can do yourself at home but having a professional comprehensive tune-up once a year can give you the engine performance you want. Call 609-737-7226 today for your car performance service in Hopewell and Pennington, NJ.

What causes a car’s electrical system to suddenly stop working?

When it comes to cars, a car electrical system with problems are the most difficult to determine, even though there are a few possible issues it could be.  The main components that can create the loss of electrical power are indicated in these ways: 

• Alternator: Lights dim, engine dies.
• Battery: Car slow to start or won’t start.
• Fuses and Links: Car won’t start or car loses all power. 
• Ignition Coil: Car won’t start or die while going down the road.
• Starter or Solenoid: Car won’t start due to loss of power.

How do you know if you have electrical problems in your car?

An older car electrical system problems typically will be the battery. A car electrical system in a new car is more complicated. The technology in today’s car has made our driving experiences better, but they have also brought us challenges with that complexity because they rely on the electrical system more than older car did. Issues with the car electrical system can be misdiagnosed, but the following can give you a guideline for those issues that can help you determine, ” Why did my car lose all power?”: 

Engine Starting Incorrectly

Electrical power is required for a car engine to start, and that power comes from the battery. The battery ignites a spark with the engine’s fuel mixture. When the car doesn’t start right, it could be a bad battery, the alternator or another electrical matter that is unrelated.

The most common indication of a car electrical system problem is a clicking sound when starting the car. That clicking sound is telling you there isn’t sufficient energy to battery for the engine to turn. This can be the battery has lost power or has died. It could also be the alternator or starter. A grinding sound while trying to start the car, it is typically the starter or the flywheel. 

A Battery Problems

A dead or discharged battery is one of the most obvious car electrical system problem. When you open the hood, if the battery cables are corroded or not connected to the battery, that will be the first thing you notice. Before replacing the battery though, it should be checked by a professional mechanic with a battery tester. The average lifespan of a car battery is five years, so if the battery has reached that 5 year mark, a replacement may be necessary. Under 5 years, it could be the alternator.

Lights Malfunctioning

All the lights on your car are necessary to be operated safely. The lighting system includes brake lights, headlights, and taillights as well as the turn signals. Each of these lights are how drivers communicate on the road.  The interior lights assist a driver in operating the car as well. When you notice the lights dimming, it is usually an indication of a low voltage or failing battery. Other car electrical system issues can be the alternator belt or loose wires.

Fuses Blown 

The fuse box in your car is there to minimizing any over-voltage or  short-circuiting from occurring. The purpose of the fuse is to break the circuit and shield any fragile electrical components getting too strong of a current. There are indiscernible reasons that can cause a fuse to blow, however, if it is a constant issue, there could be a more severe issues with the car electrical system. 

Burning Plastic 

If you notice the smell of burning plastic along with any of the electrical symptoms we’ve described here, park the car, and call a mechanic immediately. 

Yes, every car manufacturer has a recommended schedule of brake service check and brake repair, usually every 25,000 to 70,000 miles. Depending on your driving habits and style, the brake pads may need to be inspected more frequently by an authorized mechanic. 

For most drivers, too many driver, don’t think anything about the brakes of the card as long as they are stopping the car when needed. When the pads and rotors become worn out, they can’t stop your car as quickly, leading to a dangerous situation. Besides the apparent danger of having brakes inspected for any needed brake repair, when ignored, it can cause more damage to your car’s wheel system. 

This is why a routine brake maintenance service is recommended before your brakes quit working. Waiting until you’re having issues of your car not stopping as quickly and securely as it should, then getting a brake repair job, is dangerous. A brake repair job should be scheduled as soon as you notice any stopping issue with your car. 

What does brake service include?

Authorized and fully equipped brake repair shops will provide a full inspection of your car’s entire braking system. This goes beyond checking and adding brake fluid and changing the brake discs or pads. This will include disassembling the brake system and checking all parts for brake repair or replacement needs. A good brake check and brake repair isn’t done is just a matter of minutes. 

An experienced auto mechanic will perform the following: 

• Replace hoses that are broken, cracked, chaffed, or swollen.
• Replace any hoses that are leaking.
• Replace corroded, damaged, kinked, or leaking steel brake lines.
• Perform brake repair or replacement of leaking or worn caliper or wheel cylinder.
• Repair or replace brake seized guide pins or seized pin caliper.
• Check for uneven bake pad wear.
• Check master cylinder for leaks.
• Check if brake pedal is sinking to the floor.
• Inspect brake drums and rotors by measuring the wear and tear.
• Check brake drums and rotors for heat cracks, rusting, warping, or other damage .that requires brake repair or replacement .
• Replace any brake hardware needed while replacing brake pads or brake shoes.
• Replace drum brakes retaining clips and return springs.
• Replace corroded or frozen brake self-adjusters.
• Brake repair service the wheel bearings if applicable.
• Lubricate brake caliper slides and shoe pads.
• Bleed and flush brake fluid, replacing with new brake fluid. 
• Inspect and adjust parking brake.
• Inspect any ABS system fault codes, repair or replace any components needed, including accumulator, hydraulic modulator, or wheel speed sensors. 

How do you know when your rear brakes are bad?

Every part of the braking system has a lifespan and knowing if your car needs a brake repair job or when to repair brake pads or other parts of your car’s braking system is important. The brakes on your care an important safety component and not something to take lightly or dismiss any of the following indications. 

• The Brake Light: When a red or yellow brake light indicators comes on, check that you r emergency parking brake isn’t on and if it isn’t, then it is time to take  your car in for brake service or brake repair. Do not ignore this light. Today’s car’s have electronic sensors that know when something is going bad before it reaches a danger point. 
• Noises: Any squeaking, squealing, or grinding noises from the brakes needs to be inspected by a mechanic, the sooner the better. A high-pitched noise while applying the brakes usually indicates the brake pads are wearing out and a brake repair job is needed to replace the brake pads. A grinding sound is an indicator of several different issues with the brake system and a brake inspection is recommended. 
• Scraping, Vibrating, or Wobbling Brakes: A shaking, vibrating response from your brakes could mean your car needs brake repair of the discs or rotors. 
• Brake Fluid Leaking: If the brakes seem “soft” when you press on them or you notice brake fluid under your car, you need to take your car in for a brake repair service immediately. 
• Soft, Spongy Brake Pedal: Again, if you have a soft and spongy response when pressing on the brakes, take your car in for a brake repair service immediately. 
• Car Pulls to One Side When Applying Brakes: This is an indication that your car needs a brake inspection and adjustment, or possible brake repair service.  
• A Burning Smell: A car should never have any type of burning smell while driving. Especially if you notice a sharp chemical smell after applying your brakes hard in a sudden stop. 

How much does it cost to get your brakes fixed?

Brake repair prices can vary between brake repair shops throughout the New Jersey and Pennsylvania areas, but the average cost of a complete brake repair service can start around $300 and go as high as $1,000.