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When your check engine light comes on, it's usually accompanied by a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. The check engine light is one of the most frustrating and confusing things for a vehicle owner. This light comes on without any details of what the actual problem is; it's like a crying baby that can't tell you what's wrong. It doesn't mean you have to pull over immediately and call a tow truck but don't ignore it either. Ignoring this early warning sign could make things worse. ​At Alston Automotive we can communicate with your vehicles computer system and find out what the exact problem is. It might not be as bad as you think. Don't delay, call for an appoint today.
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Coolant Temp Warning Light
If this light comes on while your driving it means the engines temperature has reached a critical climate and you should pull over as soon it is safe to do so. Continuing to drive while this light is on could cause severe damage to the engine.
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TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
When the Tire Pressure Monitoring System light comes on, it means your vehicle's tire pressure is low it could mean your tire is going flat. Running on under-inflated tires will substantially increase tire wear, as well as resulting in poor, dangerous handling. Increased friction created while driving on under-inflated tires will cause tires to overheat and increase the risk of a blowout. If your not sure as to what your tire pressure should be you can ask one of our technicians.
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ABS Light (Anti-lock Brake System)
If your ABS light comes while your driving it could mean that there is a fault in the anti-lock braking system. Your ABS exists to keep your car from skidding dangerously during braking. It is an automated safety system that recognizes when your wheels stop rotating. Driving with the ABS Light on is not a good idea because it means your ABS is not working properly.
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Traction Control or ESP
If the “Traction Control System (TCS) off” Warning Indicator Light is on in the dashboard, this is means that the traction control system has been disengaged. When bad weather conditions are present such as ice, snow, or rain, your vehicle tires can lose traction and you could lose control of your vehicle. If you believe that there is a problem with your traction control system let one of our technicians know.
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Oil Pressure Warning Light
If your Oil Pressure Light comes on while your driving you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so. It could be an indication of serious engine problems. The safest course action is to have your vehicle towed so it can be properly diagnosed.
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Is your check engine light on?
Regular preventive maintenance is probably the single best thing you can do for your car. However, not everyone agrees on what preventive maintenance is, what you should do, and when should do it. Below are a few things we recommend you do.
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Do your own inspection
That's right you can do it. Just check for things that look out of the ordinary. Make sure your
lights are working, check your tires air pressure, see if your battery has any corrosion on or around it.
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Change your engine oil and filter regularly
Change your oil every 3,000 miles unless of course your vehicles manual instructs you otherwise.
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Have your tires rotated
It's important to make sure your tires wear evenly and give you a smooth ride. If you see the tread is
wearing out on one side it could mean you need an alignment.