Simple Answers about a Check Engine Light

Picture of a person checking their vehicles owners manual - Auto Repair Service in Bedford PA

Check engine light question:

 My check engine light is on. My boyfriend believes that if he can read the code he will know exactly what part he needs to replace in order to fix my vehicle. I say it’s not that simple. Who’s right?

Town Hill Auto Sales and Service’s Answer:

Good news – you are! Just look at it logically: there are hundreds of things that can go wrong with your vehicle. Some are simple and some are quite complicated.

Let’s take a step back. Over 80% of engine functions are computer controlled. The computer receives information from dozens of sensors. When a sensor reading is out of range, a trouble code is entered in the computer and the Check Engine Light is illuminated.

Diagnosing a check engine light

It’s a common misconception of drivers that the trouble code will tell you exactly what is wrong. For any given trouble code, there are any number of faults that would trigger the code. For example, a code indicating a misfire on cylinder three could be caused by a bad spark plug, a failed coil, ignition problems, compression issues, etc. Each of those possibilities requires additional diagnosis to confirm or rule out a cause.
A complicated diagnosis may take some time. The temptation is often to bypass a diagnosis charge by taking a trouble code reading with an inexpensive scan tool and start replacing parts. You might get lucky, but chances are you’ll end up spending more time and than if you went to a professional with the right equipment.
Did you know that all of the service professionals at Townhill Auto service in Bedford PA are ASE Master certified mechanics? These dealer trained technicians really know their cars. Certified in all makes and models these professionals can easily diagnose and repair anything; from the smallest leak to a major repair. Back that with being a Napa Certified Service Center you can have peace in mind that every repair uses the highest quality parts with industry-leading warranties.
 
A final word – a flashing Check Engine Light indicates that a condition exists that could lead to serious, damage, if this is your case you should get to Town Hill Auto Sales and Service in Bedford PA right away. A steadily illuminated Check Engine Light is less urgent so you can get it checked at your convenience. But keep in mind that a minor issue can become more serious if left unresolved.

Helpful links

For more information about our services Click Here

For more information about our history Click Here

 

Hey! We Test Batteries

 
Picture of a man with a clipboard - Auto Repair Service in Bedford PA

Why does my battery wear out so fast?

Modern vehicles have more electrical components and gizmo’s than ever before. This puts a lot of strain on your electrical system, making it hard for the battery to keep up. Think about it: electric seats, seat heaters, power locks, windows and sun roofs; add to that all the power outlets for our cell phones, computers, DVD players, navigation systems and powerful stereos… whew. Plus there are all the vehicle engine and transmission computers, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, sensors (getting the picture?). Even the security system is running off the battery while the car is turned off. After all that, summer heat and winter’s chill can take a real toll on battery life. Be sure to check with your auto repair professional at Town Hill Auto Service in Bedford PA  for more info about your battery.

Napa Replacement Battery

Fortunately, battery technology has produced resilient batteries that are able to meet these strenuous requirements; but the fact is, vehicle batteries will wear out over time. Eventually, every battery gets to the point where it cannot hold enough of a charge to start your car. Sometimes batteries need to be replaced because they have developed a leak and sometimes it is simply a result of age.

Napa replacement batteries come in all shapes and sizes. Some cars have limited space that requires a specially shaped battery to fit. Larger vehicle engines require more powerful batteries to get them started. If you live in a cold climate you will need a more powerful battery because engines are harder to start when it is cold. Batteries come in “good”, “better”, and “best” grades. More expensive batteries may have a longer warranty and are guaranteed to last longer. As with most things auto owners need to purchase to keep their cars in good condition, paying a little more up front saves money in the long run.

How can I know if my battery is still good?

Did you know that all of the service professionals at Town Hill Auto service in Bedford PA are ASE Master certified mechanics? These dealer trained technicians really know their cars. Certified in all makes and models these professionals can easily diagnose and repair anything; from the smallest leak to a major repair. Back that with being a Napa Certified Service Center you can have peace in mind that every repair uses the highest quality parts with industry-leading warranties. If you are having problems starting your car or simply want to have peace of mind that your battery is not going to leave you stranded, Town Hill Auto Service Center in Bedford PA would love to run a simple test on your battery that can quickly determine how much life is left in your battery. If your battery is low, one of our friendly, professional service advisors would be glad to discuss with you the different types of batteries and work with you to discover which one would best meet your budget and needs. 
  

Helpful links

To learn more about Town Hill Auto service in Bedford PA Click Here

To learn more about the other services Town Hill Auto service in Bedford PA offers Click Here

Town Hill Auto Service in Bedford PA is a NAPA Auto Care Center – to learn more Click Here

Let us know how we are doing.

google review button

yelp review button

facebook review button