Olathe European Auto Repair

Your shocks and struts are vital to the overall integrity of your suspension system. When either part starts to feel, it could lead to a catastrophe. So how can you tell when your shocks and struts need to be serviced?   Before we can answer this question it’s important for you to know the distinction between shocks versus struts. Struts are a major part of your suspension system, and they act as a shock absorber while providing structural support for the overall system. Whereas, shock absorbers only have one job: to absorb the shock from bumps on the road. Shocks do not support the way of your vehicle as struts do. Some vehicles have one or the other, or a combination of both.   Below are the warning signs of aging shocks and struts: Vehicle dipping and veering If your vehicle dramatically leans left or right on turns, it could mean that your shocks or struts are worn. The front end of your vehicle may also dip down when you come to a stop. Shakiness at high spe ... read more

All automobile manufacturers outline a factory maintenance schedule in your owner's manual to keep your car, SUV, or truck in the best possible condition. Factory maintenance enhances a vehicle's efficiency and reliability, which can save you tons of money throughout the car's lifespan. These maintenance intervals usually occur around every 30,000 miles, which is why it may also be called 30/60/90K Service. Benefits of Factory Maintenance Keeps your vehicle safe and reliable on the road Maintains eligibility of your vehicle's extended warranty (failure to follow can lead to voiding your warranty) Stops minor issues from becoming huge and expensive repairs down the line Extends your vehicle's life/protects your investment Increases your vehicle's resell value What to Expect Your owner's manual will have specific details for your car's make and model. Generally, you can expect the following items to be done at your 30/60/90K service. Belts, seals ... read more

Unless you drive an all-electric vehicle, your car, SUV, or truck has either a timing belt or timing chain. Today, we will go over the difference between these two components.   Importance of Engine Timing Your vehicle's internal combustion engine has many parts at play, and they all work in tandem to ensure that there is enough power for your car to run. One key objective that your engine has is to have the proper timing of its internal components. Timing belts and chains are engine components that sit under the hood to help achieve perfect timing.    Over time, debris (rocks, sand, ice, mud, etc.) can make its way into the engine and disrupt the timing components. Your timing belt can also wear down as it is simply made of rubber. An old and worn timing belt can also run the risk of breaking, which would lead to major engine damage. Without a working timing belt or chain, the internal combustion engine would be nearly impossible to run.    Differen ... read more

Snowy and icy roads give many drivers a winter headache. Harsh weather is one of the major causes of accidents. Getting behind the wheel is no longer fun for many drivers in such prevailing weather conditions.   Critical driving tips that are helpful in terms of safety and car reliability:1. Warm Up Your Car Do not start your car engine and take off. Spare some time for the car to warm up for thirty seconds. You'll save your engine from mechanical problems and wear. However, do not prolong the warming up to avoid having extra oil in the combustion chamber.   2. Carry Extra Tank of Gas in Your Car What happens to you while on a road trip is unpredictable. If you become stranded when the weather becomes chilly, an extra gas will help you keep warm. Sometimes the weather conditions can be extreme. Take precaution.   3. Winter Survival Kit Always ensure you have an extra pair of cloth, blanke ... read more

If you own a modern vehicle, it most definitely has oxygen (O2) sensors in the exhaust system. These sensors perform the necessary function of monitoring the amount of oxygen running through the engine. The sensor itself is connected directly to the vehicle's computer system. If the sensors pick up too low or too high of oxygen, the sensor will trigger your check engine light to come on.  Relation to the Check Engine Light Oxygen sensors are one of the many common reasons your check engine light might come up on your dashboard. In the case that it relates to your O2 sensors, the warning light may just be a warning to get the oxygen sensor replaced. When the oxygen levels are off in your engine, it is a cause for significant concern. Either way, an experienced mechanic can run a diagnostic and confirm whether your check engine light is signaling an O2 sensor problem. Where Are the Oxygen Sensors Located? Most vehicles will hold multiple oxygen sensors in their exhaust syste ... read more