What are common problems that prevent cars from starting up?

The check engine light is a sign that your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue that needs attention. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here’s a look at five common check engine light triggers. Faulty Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor plays a critical role in monitoring the balance of air and fuel in your engine. If the sensor becomes damaged or malfunctions, it can cause inaccurate readings, leading to reduced fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most frequent triggers for the check engine light and should be replaced as soon as possible to maintain optimal engine performance. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap It may seem surprising, but a loose or damaged gas cap is a common reason the check engine light comes on. The gas cap seals the fuel system, and if it isn’t tightly secured, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to use it. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter helps reduce harmful emissions by converting pollutants into less harmful gases. A failing catalytic converter can also lead to poor performance and increased emissions, making immediate attention important. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps regulate the air-to-fuel ratio. If the sensor fails, your engine may run too rich or too lean, leading to poor fuel-economy and potential engine stalling. Worn or Misfiring Spark Plugs Spark plugs are essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture in your engine’s cylinders. When spark plugs wear out or misfire, they can cause engine performance issues such as rough idling, reduced power, and poor fuel-efficiency. Worn spark plugs are a frequent reason for the check engine light and should be replaced as part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance. Check Engine Light Repair in Novato, CA For auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Transmission fluid plays a vital role by lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and regulating temperature, while also providing the necessary pressure for smooth gear shifts. However, a transmission fluid leak can lead to severe damage if not addressed promptly. As soon as you suspect that your vehicle might be leaking transmission fluid, you’ll want to make it a priority to get to the shop. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are four common signs that your car may have a transmission fluid leak. Puddles of Red Fluid Under Your Vehicle Transmission fluid typically has a reddish or pinkish hue when new, though it can turn dark brown as it ages. If you notice puddles of red fluid forming under your car, it’s a warning sign of a leak. Prompt attention is crucial to prevent further damage. Low Transmission Fluid Levels Consistently low transmission fluid levels, despite regular refills, often signal a leak. Low levels can result in inadequate lubrication, leading to potential transmission failure. Common sources of leaks include faulty transmission pan gaskets and damaged transmission lines. Difficulty Shifting Gears A lack of transmission fluid can make it harder for your car to shift gears smoothly. If you experience delays when changing gears or feel a jerking sensation, it’s possible that the fluid has been leaking. If your car slips out of gear, it could be occurring because a leak is causing the fluid to drop to the point that there isn’t enough hydraulic pressure to properly keep the car in gear. Burning Smell If transmission fluid leaks onto hot engine components, it can produce a distinctive burning smell. Anytime there’s a burning odor coming from your vehicle, it’s crucial to get it checked out by the mechanic as soon as possible. Transmission Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly take care of your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s cooling system is essential for regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating, but when a coolant leak occurs, this system becomes compromised. If left unaddressed, a coolant leak can lead to severe engine damage, potentially resulting in expensive repairs. To avoid major issues, it’s important to recognize the signs of a coolant leak early on. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert coolant leak repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are four warning signs that you may have a coolant leak. Low Coolant Levels The most straightforward sign of a coolant leak is consistently low coolant levels. If you find yourself frequently topping off your coolant, this is a strong indication that something is wrong. While small amounts of coolant may naturally evaporate over time, rapid or regular decreases in the fluid level usually signal a leak. Visible Coolant Puddle Coolant leaks often leave visible evidence underneath your car. A bright green, orange, or pink (your coolant might be a different color) puddle beneath your vehicle can indicate a coolant leak. Coolant is typically easy to identify by its distinctly bright color. If you notice such a puddle forming under your car after it has been parked for a while, it’s time to check for a coolant leak. Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay Coolant has a distinct, sweet smell due to its chemical composition, particularly the presence of ethylene glycol. If you detect a sweet odor coming from your engine bay, especially after driving, this could mean coolant is leaking onto a hot surface, causing it to evaporate and release the smell. Engine Overheating A properly functioning cooling system is vital for preventing engine overheating. If your vehicle’s temperature gauge regularly rises into the danger zone, or you notice your car overheating more frequently, this may be due to a lack of coolant caused by a leak. Driving an overheating car can cause significant engine damage, including a cracked block, so it’s important to address this issue immediately. Cooling System Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your car’s suspension system plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing shocks and maintaining proper contact between the tires and the road. However, wear and tear can cause suspension issues, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions if not addressed promptly. At Novato Auto Service, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Novato, CA area. Here are five common signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing If your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump, it’s a clear sign that your suspension may be worn out. Shocks and struts are designed to absorb the impact of road imperfections, but when they’re no longer functioning correctly, your vehicle will bounce or rock more than it should. This can make driving uncomfortable and reduce your control over the vehicle. Uneven Tire Wear Suspension problems can cause uneven tire wear. When the suspension system is misaligned or worn out, it can lead to improper tire contact with the road. This results in one side of the tire wearing down faster than the other, which can ultimately compromise traction and lead to tire replacements. Pulling to One Side If your car drifts to one side while driving, this could indicate a suspension problem, particularly with the alignment. While pulling to one side can also be caused by brake problems, a suspension component like a worn control arm may be the culprit. Misalignment affects your vehicle’s ability to drive straight, increasing your risk of an accident. Poor Handling and Steering Instability If your vehicle feels like it's swaying, or is difficult to control when turning or changing lanes, it’s a sign that your suspension is failing. Poor handling can occur due to worn shocks, struts, or other suspension components that are no longer able to stabilize the car properly. Sagging or Uneven Ride Height A sagging corner or noticeably uneven ride height is often caused by a broken or worn spring. The springs in your suspension system are responsible for supporting the weight of your vehicle, and when one fails, it can cause the car to lean or sag. Driving with a broken spring can make your vehicle unsafe. Suspension Repair in Novato, CA When you need auto repair in Novato, CA and the surrounding area, contact Novato Auto Service at  415-598-1488  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!