San Francisco Auto Repair

Ever since the “Check Engine” light became standard for all car dashboards in 1996, drivers everywhere have been moaning in agony at the first sight of that little illuminated orange icon. This special form of distress comes from the knowledge that the light means something serious is about to go wrong, but gives absolutely no indication of what the problem is. Instead of desperately hoping it will turn off on its own, take these steps: Take your vehicle to a technician, who will connect a “scan tool” to the on-board diagnostic system. The technician may require further testing and diagnostics to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem. Once the problem is identified, they will make the necessary repairs and reset the “Check Engine” light. The 5 most common fixes for “Check Engine” lights are: Replace the oxygen sensor Inspect for loose fuel cap Replace catalytic converter Replace mass air f ... read more

Transportation is the primary source of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States. With approximately 250 million passenger vehicles on the road, car owners need to be conscious of their carbon footprint. What car you drive, how you drive it and how good your car maintenance is all determines the amount of gas consumed and your environmental impact. Here are some simple ways you can keep extraneous carbon monoxide out of the atmosphere: When driving, avoid sudden starts and stops and go the speed limit. Jerky and aggressive driving is less fuel-efficient and increases wear and tear on your vehicle. Regular tune-ups will help you burn less gas, pollute less and avoid car trouble later on. Clean air filters, working oxygen sensors and properly maintained oil all increase MPG. Get rid of the dead weight. Items in your car that are not needed, weigh the vehicle down, causing an increase in gas usage. However, emerge ... read more

Engine failure can seem like a vehicle death’s sentence, but it’s no excuse to lay your car to rest permanently. Instead, consider installing a rebuilt engine. Not only are they cheaper than purchasing a new automobile, but they are often built with better parts than new car engines. Here is all you need to know about this blessing in disguise: All rebuilt engines are remanufactured to prescribed standards and specifications by highly skilled machinists. All of the new components installed meet or exceed original equipment performance standards. Design changes in newly installed parts can correct problems with the original engine. Rebuilt engines are backed by warranty programs, typically lasting anywhere from one to three years. Rebuilt engines get better gas mileage and emit fewer pollutants than a worn-out engine