Colorado Springs Auto Repair

Our brake system consists of a lot of components that work together to make you decelerate when you press the brake pedal. One of those components is the brake rotor. They are metal discs mounted directly to the wheels. If you want to learn about the five signs your brake rotors give when they are worn out or warped, continue reading. Pulling While Braking One of the most obvious signs is pulling to one side while braking, which can be caused by the rotors warping due to overheating. This can pose a threat to your safety, so make sure to visit a repair shop the moment you notice it. Another reason that causes them to warp and wear out is when the wheels are misaligned, so consider checking that as well. Unfamiliar Noises  Unfamiliar and loud noises are never a good sign, especially when braking. If the sounds are only noticeable when braking, the problem lies somewhere in the brake system. The most common cause is worn-out rotors or pads, so c ... read more

Motor oil is one of the most important parts of your vehicle that requires the most upkeeping. Engine oil keeps the engine lubricated and running smoothly. Periodically, you should check the oil levels and ensure they are at the appropriate level. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to check your motor oil levels at home: Step 1: Park the Car on Level Ground Before checking the oil, ensure that the car is parked on a level surface. This will provide an accurate reading of the oil level. Step 2: Turn off the Engine and Wait for it to Cool Let the engine cool down for a few minutes before checking the oil. This will allow the oil to settle, giving a more accurate reading. Step 3: Locate the Dipstick The dipstick is usually found near the engine and is marked with an oil symbol. Consult your owner's manual for the specific location of the dipstick. Step 4: Remove the Dipstick and Wipe it Clean Withdraw the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel. Make sur ... read more

Auto repair can be a complicated topic, and there are many misconceptions out there that can make it even more confusing. Here, we will debunk some of the most common auto repair myths to help you better understand your vehicle and keep it running smoothly. Myth #1: Premium gas is better for your car than regular gas. While it's true that some high-performance cars may require premium gas, most vehicles do not. In fact, using premium gas in a car that does not require it can actually harm your engine and waste your money. Myth #2: You should warm up your car before driving in cold weather. This myth may have been true for older vehicles, but it's unnecessary for modern vehicles. In fact, idling your car in cold weather can actually cause it to run less efficiently and waste fuel. It's better to start your car and drive it gently until it warms up. Myth #3: You should change your oil every 3,000 miles. While this used to ... read more

Harsh weather, such as extremely cold or hot temperatures, can increase the likelihood of an unexpected breakdown and disabled car. Without proper maintenance this winter, your vehicle may face some troubles. One of the most common issues that we see at Lighthouse Automotive is dead or drained car batteries.  To avoid using every bit of juice left in your battery, we welcome you to our auto repair shop for a battery test and inspection. We can let you know how your battery is doing and when to expect a battery replacement.  5 Tips on How to Prevent a Dying Car Battery Avoid Battery-Draining Habits - Forgetting to turn off your headlights or leaving the door open with your cabin lights on may just seem like an “oopsies” at first. However, don’t be surprised if your vehicle struggles to start the next. Overloading your battery with multiple things at once, especially while idling, can kill your battery too. If you want to eliminate the risks of a dead batte ... read more

A cool and fresh breeze from your vehicle's window is welcome as you drive by some flowery boulevard. And so is some fragrant smell from your car's deodorizing components. An awful sulfur-like or rotten egg smell is a sign of a mechanical problem that you should solve for your vehicle to function well. Your vehicle's gas contains some sulfur in its hydrogen sulfide. The combustion of the gas in your vehicle's engine converts the hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide, which often has no awful odor. So, what causes the awful sulfurous smell? Incomplete engine combustion and the cause of the sulfurous rotten egg odor The incomplete combustion of hydrogen sulfide in your vehicle's engine causes a sulfurous rotten egg smell, which indicates a serious engine malfunction. Such an engine failure is often linked to various system failures, including worn-out fuel filters, damaged catalytic converters, a damaged fuel pressure sensor, and overused transmission fluid. Damage ... read more

While wheel alignments can’t stop your vehicle from running, they can severely put you and your loved ones in danger. Proper wheel alignment means that your vehicle is pointed at the right angles, and it is essential to your safety. Today, we will discuss when you may need a wheel alignment and why they are important. What Is A Wheel Alignment? Most people think of a wheel alignment as a repair, however, it is more of a maintenance item. It is a procedure that involves adjusting the suspension and wheels on a vehicle to ensure that the tires face the road at a proper angle.  Your wheel’s alignment should be checked at every service. However, they typically don’t fall out of alignment until 1-2 years after adjustments. Wheels can shift out of alignment from natural wear and tear. However, they can become misaligned sooner from obstructions like potholes, curbs, and bumps on the road. Signs that Indicate You Need a Wheel Alignment Vehicle pulling left or right ... read more

The car's braking system may take the back burner in your thoughts, but keeping them in tip-top condition is crucial. Did you know that brake failure causes 5% of car crashes in the United States annually? This percentage accounts for about 300,000 car crashes in the United States annually. Here is how you can check your brakes to ensure you are not part of the statistic. Although there is no schedule for when you can check your brakes, it is important to check your brake pads manually regularly. You can check them for wear by looking through the spaces between the wheel's spokes. They are visible in the daylight, but if you have trouble seeing them, you can try using a flashlight. To identify the brake pad, look for the pad pressed against the metal motor. Your brake pad should have a quarter inch thick. If you notice anything less than a quarter inch, then it's time to get the pads replaced or book an appointment at your trusted auto repair shop. If your brake pad is les ... read more

A fuel injector is crucial to the engine's performance. It delivers the right amount of fuel to each cylinder, which allows it to combust and create power. A clogged or bad fuel injector can cause many problems. Symptoms of a Clogged or Bad Fuel Injector? If a vehicle has a clogged fuel injector, the symptoms will be: Poor engine performance. It could be poor acceleration, rough idle, or hard starting. Check engine light. If the dashboard indicates something is wrong with your vehicle, it may be time for a professional mechanic to check it out. Smoke from the tailpipe. A blocked or clogged injector may cause thicker smoke from your exhaust pipe (tailpipe). What Is a Fuel Injector? It is an electronic device that injects a precise amount of fuel into the engine. It regulates how much fuel flows into the engine and when it flows. The fuel injector is connected directly to the fuel tank by several hoses. But how does it work? The process starts when you press down on the gas pe ... read more

It is hard to believe it, but back-to-school season is already upon us. This time of year means it is time to start prepping for school carpools, last-minute runs to the store and rides to and from after-school daycares, sports practice, and more. While your free and open schedule might not stay that way for long, let’s make these moments count by being ahead of the curve with proper car care. Surely, you’ll be needing some car maintenance.   Calling all parents and college students, here are some maintenance items that you should put on your back-to-school checklist. Oil Change - Of course, if it has been some time since your last service, get your oil changed. Clean oil will ensure your engine stays properly lubricated. Battery - A dead battery can get you or your kids to class late. Make sure your battery can hold a proper charge by running a battery test. Lights - If you want a bright future for your children, start with bright lights. On the dark car rides ho ... read more

When steam is gushing from your overheated bonnet, it is not only upsetting, but it may also be damaging to the engine. Vehicle's cooling systems are generally adequate. However, if the temperature gauge increases, the vehicle may be overheating. When your vehicle gets too hot, it's usually a sign that something is wrong with the cooling system. This could be a problem with the fan, radiator, thermostat, water pumps, coolant or hoses. Indications of overheating engine There may be smoke or steam emanating from underneath the hood. When the temperature indicator on your dashboard illuminates, as it does when it turns on. An unusual odor from beneath the hood. If your vehicle is overheating, it is important to know how to stay safe and avoid potential engine damage. Keep these five tips in mind. 1. Turn off the engine right away Drive to a safe spot off the road and shut off the engine. Engine damage might ensue if you continue to drive while the engine is overheated. Just ... read more