Eugene Auto Repair

Feeling your car vibrate while idle can be annoying and concerning. While everything should be calm and quiet at a stoplight, your vehicle feels like it's shaking or shuddering in place. Why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Common Causes of Car Vibrations While Idling There are a few usual suspects when it comes to vibrations while your car is idling. The most frequent causes are related to engine components, mounts, or the exhaust system. Each of these areas can trigger the unwanted shaking sensation if something is out of order. 1. Worn Out or Faulty Spark Plugs One of the most frequent culprits behind a vibrating car at idle is bad spark plugs. Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture inside your engine’s cylinders. If one or more of your spark plugs aren’t firing correctly, it can lead to uneven engine performanc ... read more

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, some parts get all the attention—like the engine, brakes, or tires. However, your windshield wiper blades are also important for safe driving. But here's a common question: should you stick with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) wiper blades, or are aftermarket alternatives just as good? What Are OEM Wiper Blades? OEM simply stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, meaning these are the exact same wiper blades that came with your car when it was first built. The manufacturer makes them or a trusted partner, specifically designed to fit your make and model. OEM parts, including wiper blades, are known for their reliability, quality, and compatibility. But does that mean they're automatically superior to aftermarket brands? Not necessarily, but they do offer certain advantages that many drivers appreciate ... read more

When shopping for a car, you might assume that a smaller engine automatically means better fuel efficiency. After all, smaller engines should consume less fuel. However, the reality is more complex. While smaller engines do have the potential to be more fuel-efficient, there are several factors that can impact their performance. Understanding these factors can help you make a more informed decision when choosing your next vehicle. The Relationship Between Engine Size and Fuel Efficiency It's true that, in general, smaller engines are designed to use less fuel. They have fewer cylinders and typically displace less air and fuel mixture during each combustion cycle. This can lead to lower fuel consumption, particularly in urban driving conditions where stop-and-go traffic is common. Smaller engines can also be lighter, which reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, contributing further to potential fuel savings. However, fuel efficiency isn't solely determine ... read more

Driving with a fuel leak is not just a minor inconvenience but a serious safety hazard. Imagine you're driving down the road, and you catch a whiff of gasoline. It's easy to dismiss it, thinking it's just from another vehicle. But what if it's from your own car? Fuel leaks can be extremely dangerous, both to the driver and to others on the road. Let's explore why driving with a fuel leak is a risk you shouldn't take and what you should do if you suspect one. The Immediate Dangers of a Fuel Leak Fuel leaks present an immediate danger primarily because gasoline is highly flammable. A small spark, a hot surface, or even a lit cigarette can ignite gasoline fumes, leading to potentially catastrophic fires or explosions. The risk isn't confined to while you're driving - a fuel leak can cause a fire even when your car is parked. Moreover, gasoline is toxic. Prolonged exposure to its fumes ... read more

Hybrid cars have revolutionized the automotive industry with their impressive fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly technology. As more drivers make the switch to hybrids, it's important to understand the unique maintenance needs of these vehicles. While hybrid cars share some maintenance requirements with traditional gasoline-powered cars, they also have specific needs due to their advanced technology. Let's explore what maintenance hybrid cars require to keep them running. Hybrid Car Maintenance Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor, creating a complex system that maximizes fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. This dual system means that hybrid cars have unique maintenance requirements that differ from traditional vehicles. Regular maintenance not only ensures the longevity of the vehicle but also helps maintain its optimal performance. Routine Maintenance TasksOil Changes Just like tr ... read more

Certain behind-the-scenes processes are indispensable for ensuring your vehicle's optimal performance and longevity. Among these, machine services are paramount but often overlooked aspects of automotive maintenance and repair. We will explain machine services and their role in car repair, shedding light on their significance and how they contribute to keeping vehicles running on the road. What Are Machine ServicesMachine services encompass a range of specialized procedures carried out by skilled technicians to refurbish, repair, or customize various components of a vehicle's engine and other mechanical systems. From cylinder head resurfacing to crankshaft grinding, these services are designed to restore parts to their original specifications or enhance their performance beyond factory standards. Enhancing Engine Performance One of the primary functions of machine services in car ... read more

Have you noticed an odd vibration or strange noise coming from your car? Could it be a sign that your axles need attention? We'll explore the common signs that indicate your car might need axle repair and what you can do about it. The Role of Axles Your car's axles play a crucial role in the functionality of its wheels. Axles transfer power from the transmission to the wheels, allowing them to rotate and propel the car forward. Without properly functioning axles, your car would struggle to move, making them a vital component of your vehicle's drivetrain system. Common Signs of Axle TroubleStrange Noises One of the most common indicators of axle issues is strange noises coming from your car, such as clicking, clunking, or grindi ... read more

Have you ever wondered what makes your car turn smoothly around corners or navigate effortlessly through varying road conditions? Behind the scenes, there's a crucial component working tirelessly to ensure your vehicle's stability and maneuverability - the differential.  Unraveling the Mystery: What Exactly is a Differential? The differential is a mechanical device that facilitates the rotation of your car's wheels at varying speeds while ensuring road grip. It is located within the axle assembly and plays a crucial role in distributing power from the engine to the wheels. This allows the wheels to turn at different speeds as required, especially during cornering. Why Does Your Car Need a Differential? The setup may work acceptably on a straight road when driving a car in a straight line with all wheels rotating at the same speed. However, encountering corners or uneven surfaces presents a problem. Without a differential, the whee ... read more

The dashboard of your car is like a communication hub, providing vital information about the vehicle's health and status through various symbols and lights.  While some dashboard lights, like the seatbelt reminder or the fuel indicator, are instantly recognizable, there are others that are less common and can be somewhat perplexing.  1. Engine Temperature Warning Light Often depicted as a thermometer submerged in liquid, this light doesn't just suggest that your engine is getting a bit warm; it's warning you that your engine is overheating. If this light comes on, it's crucial to pull over as soon as it's safe to do so and turn off the engine to avoid severe damage. Overheating can be caused by several issues, including lo ... read more

Have you ever wondered about the magic behind the power delivery of your vehicle? It is either turbocharged or naturally aspirated. The differences between the two are quite simple, as you will learn below, so buckle up as we navigate through the heart of your car's power, uncovering the secrets that drive your driving experience.   Naturally Aspirated Engines In the case of a naturally aspirated engine, it works without any extra help from a turbocharger or supercharger. It simply passes the air through the intake and filter, directly mixing them with fuel to make power. This type of engine provides a smooth and predictable driving experience that's great for everyday use.   Turbocharged Engines Now, shift gears to the turbocharged engine – the speedster with an extra boost up its sleeve. Turbocharging introduces a forced induction system that compresses the incoming air before it enters the engine. This compresse ... read more