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Your vehicle is equipped with various sensors essential in monitoring and controlling different aspects of its performance. When one sensor fails to work correctly, it can mess with your gas mileage and even leave you stranded. The average vehicle has between 60-100 sensors, so ensuring these are all in top working order is essential.

Common Sensors Found In Modern Vehicles

If you’ve been driving for any length of time, chances are that you’ve already had to replace many sensors in your car. Here are the most common sensors and what they do to enhance your driving performance.

1. Oxygen Sensor: It’s also called the O2 Sensor, and it measures the oxygen content in the exhaust gases. It helps the engine control unit (ECU) adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion and to reduce emissions.

2. Mass Airflow Sensor: The MAF sensor measures the air entering the engine. It provides data to the ECU, determining the appropriate fuel injection and ignition timing.

3. Throttle Position Sensor: The TPS monitors the position of the throttle valve. It informs the ECU about the driver’s throttle input, allowing it to adjust fuel delivery and engine response accordingly.

4. Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor: The MAP sensor measures the intake manifold’s absolute pressure, providing information about engine load. This data helps the ECU optimize fuel injection and ignition timing.

5. Coolant Temperature Sensor: The CTS measures the engine coolant temperature. It provides feedback to the ECU, assisting in adjusting fuel delivery, idle speed, and cooling fan operation.

6. Knock Sensor: The knock sensor detects abnormal combustion, called engine knock or bang. It sends signals to the ECU, allowing it to adjust and prevent damage to the engine.

7. Camshaft Position Sensor: The CMP sensor monitors the position and speed of the camshaft. This information is crucial for proper fuel injection timing and synchronization with the crankshaft sensor.

8. Crankshaft Position Sensor: The CKP sensor monitors the position and speed of the crankshaft. It provides vital data to the ECU for fuel injection and ignition timing, and it detects misfires.

9. Wheel Speed Sensors: Wheel speed sensors are found in anti-lock braking systems and traction control systems. They monitor the rotational speed of each wheel, allowing the system to detect a wheel lockup or loss of traction.

10. Acceleration Sensors: These sensors are used in electronic stability control systems, and they can detect changes in vehicle acceleration and rotation. They help the system apply individual wheel brakes or adjust engine power to maintain vehicle stability.

These are just a few examples of the many sensors present in modern vehicles. Each sensor serves a specific purpose and contributes to the car’s overall performance, efficiency, and safety. When one is fouling out or about to go out altogether, you will certainly see a difference in the operation of your vehicle.

Signs of Sensor Failure

When a vehicle sensor malfunctions or fails, it can lead to various symptoms or warning signs. Here are some common signs that may indicate a bad sensor in a vehicle:

1. Check Engine Light: The most common indicator of a sensor issue is the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard. A wide range of sensor-related problems can trigger this ominous warning sign.

2. Poor Performance or Reduced Power: A faulty sensor can cause the vehicle’s performance to suffer. You may experience decreased power, sluggish acceleration, or difficulty maintaining speed.

3. Rough Idling or Stalling: A malfunctioning sensor, such as the idle air control sensor or throttle position sensor, can lead to rough idling or even stalling of the engine when the vehicle stops or decelerates.

4. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Sensors like oxygen or mass airflow play a role in optimizing fuel delivery. A faulty sensor can result in poor fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption.

5. Transmission Issues: Malfunctioning sensors, such as vehicle speed or position sensors, can cause transmission-related problems. You may experience erratic shifting, slipping gears, or failure to use the proper gear.

6. ABS or Traction Control Warnings: Wheel speed sensors are crucial for operating anti-lock braking systems and traction control systems. If a wheel speed sensor fails, it can trigger warning lights related to these systems.

7. Erratic Instrument Cluster Readings: Faulty sensors can cause erratic or incorrect readings on the vehicle’s instrument cluster. This could include inaccurate fuel level readings, speedometer fluctuations, or sporadic temperature readings.

8. Overheating: A malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor can provide incorrect readings, leading to overheating issues. The engine may run hotter than average, and the temperature gauge may fluctuate or read inaccurately.

9. Ignition Problems: Sensors such as the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors are vital for proper ignition timing. A faulty sensor can result in difficulties starting the engine or cause misfires.

10. Unexpected Warning Alerts: Some sensors, like the tire pressure monitoring system sensor, can trigger warning lights or alerts if malfunctioning. You may receive false tire pressure warnings or be unaware of actual tire pressure issues.

Getting Help with Sensor Issues

It’s important to note that these signs can indicate various issues, not just sensor problems. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is recommended to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic or technician who can identify the specific situation and replace or repair the faulty sensor if necessary.

If you’re having issues related to one of the many sensors in your automobile, please contact Cloverdale Auto for assistance. Our well-trained technicians can quickly identify your problem and get you back on the roadway.

The summers in Winston-Salem, NC, are scorching hot. Now is the time to ensure your vehicle’s air conditioning is ready to tackle extreme temperatures. Should your AC stop working in the middle of a sweltering day, it can certainly put a wrench in things.

There are a few common causes of AC breakdowns, such as a leak or compressor failure. Your once icy air can suddenly turn warm and fail to cool the cabin of your car. You could be dealing with an issue like a filter clog or have problems with your cooling fan or radiator. In some instances, the freon levels are low, and your AC needs to be recharged.

Finding the Reason Behind Your AC Failure

The good news is that you don’t need to suffer in that stuffy vehicle when Cloverdale Auto Service can help. The most challenging part of handling AC failure is the diagnostic work. Everyone wants to save money these days, but buying a kit at your local automotive store to recharge the unit might not fix the problem. Throwing your hard-earned cash out the window isn’t wise. Here are some things to consider about AC failure.

1. There Could Be Leaks

Over time, the refrigerant in your AC can leak due to holes or worn fittings. Look around the AC unit for any signs of leakage on the ground. Don’t confuse the condensation water under the car for a leak, which is a common mistake. It doesn’t mean that one isn’t there if you don’t see a leak.

Cloverdale Auto Service uses a leak detection kit to put dye in the system. Using the power of UV light, we can quickly identify the area of concern. Some of the most common places that we find leaks are:

•Fittings and crimps
•Hose manifolds
•O-rings and front seals
•Pin holes in the condenser

2. The Fan Might Work, but It Can Blow Hot Air

If your fan is blasting, but the air it’s providing is warm, it can be a sign of a condenser issue. The AC system inside your car has a condenser and evaporator coil, much like you do in your home’s unit.

Since it’s located on the front of the vehicle, it’s not uncommon for leaves, twigs, and other debris to get into the system and clog things up. Anything that impedes the air from passing over the condenser can cause your air to blow warm.

3. The Compressor Engaging Is Essential for a Functioning System

When you turn your AC to the max settings, the fan should run at full capacity, and you should hear the compressor engage to provide cooling. You can tell when it kicks on because you likely feel the boost or hear it. Under the hood, the clutch engages and disengages a pulley.

We use a pressure gauge to see if your compressor runs on the low side. Commonly, a low-pressure unit doesn’t have the proper refrigerant levels. If you fail to hear the compressor engage and the fluid levels are ideal, we need to use a voltmeter to see if there’s any power. It’s possible that there’s a blown fuse, a bad clutch, or a cycling switch that’s faulty.

The compressor is the pump that sends the freon to the unit, and if it fails to do its job, your vehicle won’t cool down. The compressor is expensive to replace, as it’s common for parts inside the unit to become worn. Having professional diagnostics on this unit is wise before buying parts and trying the DIY method. It may be something that can be fixed without replacing the entire unit.

4. The Evaporator Coil Might Be Compromised

The evaporator coil takes the hot air from the cabin and allows it to pass over the coils to cool. Then, the blower motor assembly transports this cooled air to the vents inside the cabin. Several things can go wrong within this area of the AC system.

For instance, the blower motor assembly can fail to work, so when you engage the system, you feel cool air coming out, but it’s not coming out with any force. Another problem many people experience is a roar coming from the assembly.

This signifies that the unit is at the end of its life expectancy. The coils themselves can become clogged too, or a freon leak may not allow the evaporator to cool the air as it passes over them.

The Importance of AC Inspections

As you can see, diagnosing AC problems is very challenging without proper diagnostic equipment and knowledge of this complicated system. At Cloverdale Auto Service, we can quickly identify the issue to get your AC back up and running. Don’t waste precious time and money trying to fit the unit yourself, as it’s not always as easy as going to the automotive store for quick fixes.

The AC unit has electrical components that can easily be damaged if you’re not skilled in repairs. While watching videos online and trying to save yourself downtime and money is helpful, there are some things that it’s best to leave to the professionals. Is your AC unit ready for the sweltering heat we experience here in the South? If you’re not sure, it never hurts to have an inspection to reduce the chances of complete system failure.

Bad habits are hard to break, but it’s time to make a change when dealing with a vital system in your car, like your engine and transmission. The transmission is one of your vehicle’s most crucial and complex systems, so it should be adequately treated to ensure longevity. It’s just another thing to add to your long to-do list, but keeping this system in good shape isn’t that difficult.

Knowledge can go a long way regarding this vital component. If you’ve ever had a transmission fail on you, you know how expensive it is to replace them. Many people are guilty of system maltreatment and don’t know what they’re doing is so harmful. Thankfully, at Cloverdale Auto, we can help steer you in the right direction.

Bad Habits to Avoid with Your Transmission

Your vehicle either has an automatic or manual transmission, also known as a standard or stick shift. It’s not common to buy a car these days that’s a stick unless you’re buying a sports car. The automatic transmission shifts the gears for you seamlessly without you giving it any thought.

The component uses the torque behind the engine and helps to make the vehicle move regardless of its massive weight. You can go from 20 to 85 mph without putting too much strain on the motor. Thus, driving is easier as you don’t have to worry about constantly shifting gears. Here are some damaging driving habits that can cause excessive wear on your transmission.

1. Running on Improper Fluid Levels

You know what it’s like to be thirsty. Your mouth feels like cotton, and you feel like you’ll perish if you don’t get water quickly. It’s a miserable feeling, but this is the same scenario as when your vehicle is low on fluids. If you want to drive your transmission straight to the junkyard, run it without proper levels.

Your fluids are responsible for keeping your transmission cool and lubricated, and if it’s too low or gone altogether, it will overheat. Additionally, the internal parts within this component will grind and can cause damage or failure.

2. Drag Racing

It’s fun to drag race, especially for the younger generations. Drag racing on a green light produces excessive heat. The transmission heats up very quickly, and it doesn’t have a chance to cool down when it sustains this type of abuse.

Some engines and transmissions are made for drag racing, but your average vehicle lacks such capabilities. You risk ruining the driveline components within this system, which means you’ll need a complete overhaul.

3. Overheating Your Engine

An automobile is equipped to handle temperatures under the hood as high as 200 degrees, but it overheats once it exceeds this threshold. Even if you go just 20 degrees over, you’re causing unnecessary wear to your engine and transmission. Should the temperature reach 300 degrees, you’re shortening the longevity of the system.

When the oil and fluids are so hot that they’re boiling, they can’t lubricate and protect as they should. Pull over and turn off the car if your temperature gauge heads into the red zone. You need to get help before you destroy expensive components that will cost thousands to repair or replace.

4. Abrupt Stops

Sudden stops are as horrible for your transmission as sudden take-offs. Do people often lunge forward when you stop because you’re slamming on your breaks? Your transmission is a mounted system, and when you have sudden and jerky movements, it can cause damage to this part. The mounts that hold it in place can become loose or break.

After an accident requiring you to slam the brakes, things like your mounts should always be checked.

5. Not Changing Filters and Fluids

The transmission filter needs to be replaced, just like your oil and fuel filters. While it may not need to be changed as often, it shouldn’t be left to time and chance. Your filters strain out impurities that can keep the system from running efficiently.

They can become clogged and cause a system malfunction. The fluid levels are another thing that must be considered. Any fluids in the car will become dirty over time.

The fluids in your transmission should be a pink or red color and should have no smells to them. When the fluid isn’t changed in a timely fashion, it will cause the seals and gaskets to wear down, as well as internal components. Fluids that can no longer filter impurities are prone to overheating, which will cause total system failure.

6. Using Over-the-Counter Additives

Today, you try to do it yourself and save money. While it’s good to gain knowledge and learn new things, it’s not always best to practice on things that are so expensive. There are hundreds of products on the market that promise to seal gaskets and keep your systems running longer.

However, when you feel your transmission shifting poorly or see leaks, it’s not time to diagnose the issue yourself. You need to take your vehicle to a qualified specialist who can run diagnostics and fix the problem rather than putting a band-aid on it.

Schedule A Flush and Fill

Periodically, it’s advisable to flush the old fluid out of your transmission, replace the filter, and put fresh fluid in it. It’s recommended that this be done every 60,000 miles, but each vehicle has specific guidelines from the manufacturer. When was the last time you had this vital service performed on your car? Call us today to schedule an appointment.

As cars become more advanced, push-button ignitions are replacing traditional keyed starters. You can power your vehicle without turning a switch using a key fob. Sure, like anything new; the fobs can be annoying, as you must replace the batteries and keep them within proximity of the vehicle.

The little box that hangs on your key ring is responsible for engaging your vehicle’s computer system. Even if you don’t push any buttons on the fob, it’s omitting a low-frequency signal to the mainframe of your automobile. You can start and stop the car with the touch of a button on your dash.

The fob allows you to open the doors or hatch, start the car, roll down windows, and adjust preferred settings. Gone are the days of fumbling through keys and getting scratches on the paint trying to gain entry.

Interesting Things You Can Do with Your Key Fob

Like most things in electronics, the key fob has evolved. Today’s fob can do way more than the first ones that hit the market. Yet, many people don’t realize all the power these little devices hold. Here are some of the key fob’s secret powers you need to understand to utilize them fully.

Access a Key Hidden

While keys are becoming obsolete in the automotive industry, they still have their place. What do you do when your electronic components are on the fritz and you need to get into your vehicle? The simple answer is that most fobs have a key hidden inside them for these moments.

Each car manufacturer is different, but most car companies put a key inside that can be accessed in an emergency. Knowing how to get to this inner key easily is advisable, as you’ll no doubt have to use it at least once.

Use It As a Personal Safety Device

Your key fob has a panic button that you can access in an emergency. Here’s something you probably didn’t know about; you can extend the fob range by using your body’s electricity. You only need to put the fob on your chin and hit the button you need.

You may want to unlock the door for your kid who ran ahead at the store. You can use your body’s electricity to extend the fob’s range. With the fob on your face, hit the unlock button. You can do this to lock, unlock, or use the panic button.

Sure, it probably doesn’t make much sense at first, but it becomes more apparent when you realize the electricity that runs through your body. Did you know some people have such a natural current that they can’t wear a watch? The electricity in their body messes with the timing.

Another indication is the old TV sets that used rabbit ear antennas. Whenever you touch the antenna, the picture becomes much clearer. It’s the electricity in your body that’s given it the boost.

Automatically Start Your Car

Automatic start is becoming a standard feature on many cars, as it sure comes in handy in the wintertime. Your fob is used to activate this perk, and you’ll wonder how you lived all those years without it. Don’t worry; no one can get in the car and drive it away. The fob must be inside the vehicle to start and drive the automobile. Additionally, it will shut down after 10-15 minutes of the warmup cycle.

Engage Auto Parking Features

You can do amazing things with the fob if you have a high-end vehicle like a Tesla. Using the summons feature, you can move the car back and forth with the touch of a button. Getting into and out of those tight spots when you don’t have someone else with you will no longer be a problem.

Dealing with a Dead Key Fob

One of the most significant issues with these new fobs is the battery. The more you use it, the more battery life you will take away from it. Replacing the batteries isn’t a big deal, but you must ensure you do it. If the fob isn’t acting as it should, you need to try replacing the batteries to ensure it’s this problem and not electrical.

How long will a battery last? The battery life depends heavily on the type of battery you buy and how much you use it. If you hit the fob 20 times a day every day, you can expect to get about 6-8 months’ worth of use from this battery. If you’re using it only a couple of times a day, it can last over a year or more.

A better battery is always worth the cost, as quality cells last longer. If you’re going through batteries quickly, it’s a sign there’s an issue. Even frugal varieties shouldn’t die too soon, as these are not low-draining devices.

Getting Help with Your Automobile

As technology continues to change, we’re constantly learning and evolving. While we can’t help you program a new fob to your car, as only a dealer can, we can help you sort out an electrical issue. Today’s technologically advanced vehicles are often more apt to have these types of problems.

The computer systems and more advanced wiring rival the ones in the cars of yesteryear. If you’ve put fresh batteries in your fob and are still having issues, it may be the electrical system. The team at Cloverdale Auto can help. Call us today for assistance.

Do you need a holiday gift for someone special this year? Why not buy them a car gadget? Most people spend a lot of time behind the wheel of their vehicle, so buying them some devices to improve their ride is a must. There are a few hot gizmos on the market right now, as it’s the in-thing for drivers to accessorize.

Finding the Right Gadgets for Your Vehicle

While spending a ton of money on things you might use is effortless, you must ensure you need the item. Impulse buys can often be a mistake as they’re seldom used. It would help if you asked yourself a few questions before making a purchase, such as:

•Is this gadget something I will use?
•Am I getting good value for my money?
•Do I need this item, or is it purely a want?
•Will this gadget enhance my safety, or is it for pleasure?

By answering these four questions, you can make an informed decision. If you’re ready to buy, here are eight things that will make your life on the open road much easier.

1. Heated Ice Scraper

The weather here in the Tar Heel State doesn’t get as cold as in other states, but you will still have your fair share of window scraping. A heated scraper is a game changer for the early morning driver. Forget those large scrapers that give you a workout to remove the ice.

A heated scraper glides across your windows with ease. You can quickly remove any ice and be on your way. You can opt for a battery-powered one or get one that plugs into a USB port.

2. Emergency Auto Tool

Should you ever need to escape your vehicle quickly, you might need this gadget. It has a hammer that can break through the tough glass on your car and comes with a seat belt cutter. These devices also have flashlights and become emergency reflectors in an accident. They are small enough to fit in the glove box but are undoubtedly handy when you need help on the roadways.

3. Gel and Memory Foam Posterior Cushion

Back and neck pain is often aggravated by driving. Thankfully, grabbing a posterior cushion is the answer. Pillows with cooling gel can help when your back pain is unbearable, and the memory foam hugs every inch of your spine. It’s one gadget you should consider if you make frequent long trips.

4. Hands Free Devices

In North Carolina, no one under 18 can use a cell phone while driving. For adults, it’s no texting or emailing allowed. Just because it’s not illegal to talk on the phone doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many new cars are equipped with hands-free calling via Bluetooth, but not all vehicles have this feature.

Investing in a hands-free device is advisable. It allows you to focus on the road and not the phone. It takes a split second for you to have an accident, so it’s best to ensure you have no distractions. Plus, some areas have laws against cell phone use, so if you travel, you want to comply.

5. Wireless Diagnostic Code Reader

Cars have computer systems that indicate when there’s an issue. Everyone dreads seeing that check engine light illuminated on the dash. You need to know if it’s safe to drive and might need more time to go to your local mechanic. So, having a diagnostic code reader is the best choice.

These devices aren’t costly and can quickly tell you what’s going on with your vehicle. It can give you peace of mind and save on tow bills if you invest in this gadget.

6. Dash Cameras

If you’ve been on social media, you know how necessary a dashcam is nowadays. Not only can these devices help show proof in an accident, but they can protect you in court. You often need proof for all the little incidents on the roadway and having a dash cam is like a witness that provides an honest view of what happened.

7. GPS Tracker

Automobile thefts are up 41 % according to the Winston-Salem Journal. Having a GPS tracker on your car is brilliant. You can easily track your vehicle and help police find it should you be one of the unlucky ones who is a victim. Plus, if you have teenagers, it takes on a whole new level of importance.

8. USB Tire Inflator

You never know when the tire might need air. The cold weather can often mess with your PSI, but you need to be proactive. A tire inflator that can easily connect to your USB gives you the power to take care of the issue without a hassle.

Have you ever driven around trying to find a tire pump and didn’t have the correct change? This eliminates all those issues and can gets you enough air to get to the closest mechanic.

Gadgets Are No Substitution for a Mechanic

While you can buy inflators and scanning tools to make your life easier, nothing will replace the need for a skilled mechanic. At Cloverdale Auto, we help people with tire issues, engine overhauls, and everything in between. Your safety is our top concern. If you have a problem with your vehicle, give us a call at 336-331-3448.

There’s nothing more ominous to a driver than the check engine light illuminated on the dash. Sometimes it comes on and goes back off before you can head to the mechanic, and other times it’s flashing that indicates you need service immediately.

Even the strongest person can’t help but feel a little anxiety when this light turns on, as the fear of the unknown can weigh heavy on the mind. The costs could be anywhere from a few dollars to thousands, and no one has time for their car to be out of commission in today’s busy world.

Learning the OBD II Codes

The computer in the car generates these codes. They help the mechanic quickly identify and fix the issue. It saves a lot of time and money on diagnostics when you can easily find out what’s wrong.

At Cloverdale Auto, we handle car troubles and engine codes daily, but we know that the public doesn’t have this knowledge. You can buy a machine at your local automotive store and scan it yourself, but you need to know what the codes mean. In most instances, you’ll still end up heading to your local mechanic for service.

Some codes are particular to a car manufacturer, but others will be universal. Codes are divided into four categories to help simplify things. They are as follows:

P: This code means something is amiss with the powertrain, such as the engine or transmission.

B: This code indicates that something is wrong with the vehicle’s body, such as the airbags, lights, or climate control.

C: A code that starts with C means something is amiss with the chassis. Your antilock brakes may be in trouble or the suspension system.

U: You will only see this code on vehicles after 2006. It means that the network is having communication issues. It could be the wiring or the modules, but it needs to be checked.

To further complicate matters, the second digit also has a significant meaning. Should the second number be a 1, this tells the mechanic that the vehicle likely needs further diagnostics. Things that won’t come up in these codes include low oil pressure, overheating, and a vehicle out of gas. These indicators have a separate gauge that helps to read them, so they don’t have a dedicated code.

Identifying Most Common Engine Codes

Most people recognize their car isn’t running quite right with or without the display of a check engine light. Here are some standard codes that you might observe and what they mean.

•P0411 – P0445

If you see any of these codes displayed, it means there’s an issue in the emissions control system or EVAP. Some of these codes are very benign, such as P0445. When we see this code displayed, we know that the most common culprit is a loose gas gap. However, if the P0442 comes up, it shows ups that there’s a vapor leak that could come from a faulty hose that’s cracked or loose, as well as a possible EVAP canister leak.

To diagnose these issues, we must pressurize the system and see where any leaks are present. If it’s something as simple as a gas cap, it will go off when we reset it or after so many times starting the engine. Other issues require a smoke generator to do the pressure test and find the problem.

•P0300 – P0305

Any code in this series indicates that the engine is misfiring. It can be something simple like a spark plug that’s fouling out, or it can be a vacuum leak. The computer has indicated an abnormality in the pace of the crankshaft while the engine is running. Sometimes, the fuel-to-oxygen ratio is off, or there’s a dirty fuel injector. It requires some diagnostic work, but we recognize that a P0301 is likely spark plugs that need to be changed, and so on.

•P0171 – P0174

Codes within this category are usually not so cut and dry to diagnose. It could indicate that the EGR valve is malfunctioning, or there’s a Mass Airflow sensor issue. Sadly, we often must do more investigation to find the diagnosis. Codes in this range mean the engine has a lean-running condition, and we need to pull out a more advanced scanning device to help uncover the mystery.

•P0420 – P0430

If the vehicle uses the OBD II standards, these codes often indicate a problem with the catalytic converter. We know that these codes usually mean costly repairs. It could be a 02 sensor, but it could mean something like a coolant leak.

Over time, the catalytic converter can become damaged. The damage can occur from an engine burning too much oil or a coolant leak somewhere within the system. This converter is essential to the vehicle as it eradicates toxic engine-exhaust pollutants from being released into the atmosphere. It’s illegal to drive without one, as it harms the environment.

•P0133 – P0141

The common culprit with these codes is a 02-sensor issue. The computer has indicated that the fuel metering needs to be adjusted, and it’s likely a failure from this sensor. The 02 Sensor will become worn out or carbon-fouled over time, so it causes the engine to misfire, much like a worn spark plug.

Getting Your Car Serviced

Seeing the check engine light is often scary, as you know it will likely mean a trip to the mechanic. However, at Cloverdale Auto, we try to get your vehicle in and out of service as soon as possible. We understand the inconvenience of a mechanical issue, so we strive to ensure our customers get fast and professional service at reasonable prices.