Your drive axle routes the direction of power from the transmission to the drive wheels. This can be either the front, the back, or all wheels on your car, truck or SUV. There are many mechanical components to deliver this power, including bearings, universal or constant velocity (CV) joints, seals, the axles themselves, and lubricants to keep everything turning smoothly. There’s also, in some cases rubber boots to keep dirt and moisture away from these parts so they can last much longer.
Electrical
Your electrical system is like your nervous system, but in your vehicle. It delivers current and impulses from one electrical component to another, and in the case of the many computers in the vehicle, at lightning speed. These impulses are needed to operate simple devices like electric window motors, to very sophisticated switches and other devices that measure chemical content, temperature, and minute movement.
Filters
All vehicles require fluids that either transfer mechanical energy (like brakes) or are used to cool or lubricate other components, like your engine oil or cooling system. Due to heat, pressure or other outside forces, many of these fluids must be as clean as possible for a long vehicle service life. At Ed Jones Automotive, we’re able to quickly service most cars, trucks and SUVs with the proper filters. Whether it’s oil, fuel, water separator, air, transmission or even cabin filter, we know what your vehicle’s schedule is and can get your filters changed quickly, so you can be back out on the road.
Fuel and Engine Management
Your fuel system (along with other systems as well) is controlled by a computer and sensors known as the Engine Management Unit. The sensors measure many factors, such as coolant temperature, air pressure, engine vacuum, ambient air temperature and more to help the fuel system calculate EXACTLY how much fuel is required for best engine efficiency, lowest emissions, and maximum power.
Hard Starting
The starting system of your vehicle is where it all begins….ok, you knew that. For your vehicle to properly start, many factors have to come together. The electrical system MUST be in good working order, with a fully charged battery. The fuel system must be ready to deliver just the right amount of fuel for the engine to fire. And, the starter must be able to handle the immense amount of electrical energy that will allow it to turn the engine over. Additionally, all sensors must identify to the ECM that “all systems are go”, and this will allow a clean, normal start.
Headlamps
Your headlamps provide a very important function…they allow you to see the road when it’s dark! On earlier vehicles, they were merely bulbs that were aimed forward and gave a small amount of light to allow you to see road markers, lane lines and other vehicles. Today, even the simplest headlamp system has many components that all must work together to show you the light!
Oil Changes
An oil change is like a transfusion of new life into your vehicle. Over time, oil can lose some of its chemical properties that are designed to reduce corrosion and increase the lubrication in your engine. In some environments, dust and dirt can also find their way into your crankcase, so a regular change of your oil and filter are paramount to the long service life of your car or truck.
Powertrain Systems
Your vehicle’s powertrain is made up of the engine (and electric motors if a hybrid), transmission or transaxle, drive axle, and many sensors and a powertrain control module that ties them all together. This is the combination of components that powers the vehicle and moves it in the direction you want to go. Normally, each system works together to produce a smooth flow of power, easily modulated by your foot on the accelerator. Occasionally, if there is a sensor out of range or a faulty component, the car will run roughly, throw a “Check Engine” or “Check Transmission” light, and generally let you know that some part of your powertrain needs attention.
Ride and Handling
Not many vehicular issues are as noticeable as a car that has a bouncy or unstable ride. A car that is not comfortable to drive or ride in is instantly noticed by everyone in the vehicle. For both your comfort and the overall long life of your vehicle, you should have this issue inspected as soon as possible.
