Author: Ryan GMW

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BMW Ride Quality

Don’t Let Your BMW Ride Quality Suffer Because of Faulty Suspension

The suspension in most vehicles is pretty standardized. However, the suspension in a BMW is entirely different, and depending on the model has some degree of variants. The BMW’s unique suspension design creates one of the best ride qualities to date. While other manufacturers are using lower control arms and a single ball joint, BMW has dual-link struts that have their ball joints. While you might be saying, but what’s the difference? There is a huge difference. This setup allows for movement that a single ball joint/lower control arm setup just doesn’t have. Depending on the model, suspension parts can include the coils, coil-over springs, sway bars, and shocks. In newer BMW’s you’ll find that they use an adaptive suspension in some models that adjust depending on what you select. Perhaps one of the essential features of the BMW’s suspension system is its shocks. Shocks have some critical roles in how it relates to riding quality. They keep a BMW planted firmly on the road, and “dampen” what you feel when you hit a bump in the road. The shocks that are on most models are adjustable. The ability to adjust just how much you will feel when driving is an excellent way to not only personalize your ride but also get the most out of your suspension parts.

There are many ways to tell if a shock has gone wrong. Taking your vehicle to a BMW service Roseville shop like Ryan GMW is the best option for determining if something is wrong with the suspension of your BMW. For a self-test on if shocks are worn out, although not as scientific or exact, is the bounce test. If you were to lean on the car on one corner pushing it towards the ground and let off, is there any bounce or does it return to position right away? If it bounces a couple of times, changes are good suspension repair and service are in your future. It is necessary to replace worn out shocks quickly. There a few downsides to driving a car with severe collapses and they can include:

  • Reduces brake efficiency
  • Anti-lock brake system isn’t as effective
  • Control when cornering can be compromised
  • Increased wear on tires
  • Uncomfortable ride

It’s essential to have shocks, or any other suspension parts replaced when needed. Ryan GMW is the BMW expert that offers fantastic repair work on all BMWs. BMWs aren’t like every other car on the road. They are sophisticated and require an expert to troubleshoot and repair their problems.

Conclusion

The suspension in a BMW is complicated, and this complexity is what makes the ride quality so much more appealing while driving. When there is a problem with the suspension parts, such as worn out shocks, there is a noticeable difference in drive quality. It is unsafe to drive a vehicle for an extended length of time on bad shocks, and it should be addressed by a professional. Check out the services we offer, here!

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Don’t Lose Quality Performance Over A Faulty Exhaust

A car’s exhaust system plays a significant role in how well a vehicle performs. The exhaust system’s function is to expel the gases created by a combustion engine. When everything is working correctly, there won’t be any sounds other than what the muffler creates. There are a few significant parts of the exhaust system, and it’s good to know what it is made of up. Starting from the motor, which is where the exhaust system begins, the exhaust will come out the manifold or header. The exhaust will then start to flow through the exhaust tubes and make its way through a catalytic converter then through the muffler and out through the tailpipe. Usually, before and after the catalytic converter there are oxygen sensors fitted into the exhaust tubing. These sensors can play a huge role in how well your car runs. A vehicle’s computer will adjust fuel according to how much exhaust gas is flowing through. When someone wants to make changes to their vehicle’s exhaust working around these sensors can be tricky. Increasing performance through an exhaust upgrade is an excellent way to gain more power out of your car’s motor. The exhaust can have many different tones and can be changed by replacing specific features. Exhaust tones can be modified with upgrades to the muffler, changing the manifold, installing a high flow catalytic converter, and upgrading to larger exhaust tubing. All of these changes can help increase performance, but if there is a leak or faulty part, it won’t run as it should. One way to ensure you are getting the most out of your vehicle’s exhaust is to have an inspection done.

Regular inspections of the exhaust system can help to achieve better performance out of your vehicle. Any exhaust leaks can diminish how well it runs and can create unusual sounds. Exhaust repair and service can be done at many automotive shops. In many cases, if an O2 sensor is faulty, it will throw a code and illuminate a check engine light. Roseville BMW service shop, Ryan GMW can scan the codes that are stored in a vehicle’s ECU, This will quickly tell the technician if there are any issues with the exhaust system, which can include clogged catalytic converter or faulty O2 sensor. In other cases, a BMW repair shop will be able to inspect the full exhaust system for problems visually.

It is essential to have the exhaust system inspected, especially if the car isn’t running right, there is a check engine light, or unusually noises are present. Problems with your vehicle won’t just go away, and in fact, can damage other components if left untreated. It is true in the case of a clogged catalytic converter and O2 sensors. So before you shrug off that weird sound, clunking, or lack of performance, taking it in for an exhaust inspection can help identify the underlying problem.

Conclusion

The exhaust system plays a significant role in performance because of how it allows gases to escape and flow. When there is a leak, faulty sensor, or even rusted out mufflers or tubing it can make the fuel system not work correctly, throw engine codes, and a few other problems. In many states, California included, a car won’t pass inspection if a check engine light is on or if there is a problem with the exhaust system because it is part of the emission system. A trained professional will be able to evaluate what the problem is, and be able to make repairs. Call us for inquiries or visit us our website today!

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What Happens During A Brake Inspection?

Most car owners are aware of the role their brakes play in a vehicle. However, many are unaware of what components make up the braking system and what happens when they take their car in for an inspection. Before getting into what goes on during a brake inspection, it is essential to know what the brake system is made up of. Most BMW’s, especially newer models all utilize four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brakes offer better stopping power and are more reliable. The disc brake system includes brake pads, rotors, calipers, hoses, a master cylinder, and brake booster. The disc brake system is quite simple. When you press the brake pedal the two brake pads that side inside the caliper clamp against the rotor. The firmer you push the pedal, the harder they clasp.

Older model vehicles might be equipped with drum brakes on the rear. Drum brakes work similar to the disc brake system. However, they aren’t as reliable. They have a housing called the drum and use brake shoes that press against the drum to stop the vehicle. Since many cars are now equipped with the disc brake system, we’ll focus on what happens during a disc brake inspection.

Over time the parts of the brake system, specifically the brake pads, will wear down. Brake pads must be changed to prevent premature damage to the rotors or caliper malfunction. Many of the brake pads made today have a wear indicator installed. It alerts drivers that it is time for them to be changed. The wear indicator will make a high pitched squeak noise. Other parts of the brake system can give clues to problems they might have, which makes diagnosing the issue a little easy. For instance, if a caliper sticks it will make a bad burning smell and sometimes produce smoke because of the friction. If the brake pedal isn’t feeling as firm as it once was, this might indicate a lower level of brake fluid that needs to be filled.

Brake repair and service is very common in automotive shops. It is a service that has to be done for a vehicle to remain safe on the road. A brake inspection can be done at the shop of Ryan GMW – come, visit us at our repair shop! Curious about what happens during a brake inspection? Here is a list of components that are inspected to ensure everything is working correctly and if anything needs to be replaced.

  • Check brake pads for wear and access how much is left on the pads
  • Check rotors for even wear and warpage
  • Check brake fluid, fill if needed
  • Inspect brake lines

When a technician looks at your vehicle, they will probably inspect the brake fluid level first. Often many of the problems with brakes can be related to low brake fluid. Moving on from the master cylinder, its wheels will be taken off to inspect the workings of the disc brake system. It will include the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. A technician will determine how much of the brake pad is left and if the wear is normal. If something is wrong such as a warped rotor, stuck caliper, or uneven wear of the pads and rotors, they will let you know that those items need to be replaced.

Brake inspection is the first line of defense in keeping your vehicle’s stopping power at optimal performance. BMW service Roseville CA auto shop Ryan GMW can inspect any brakes and repair or replace parts that need to be changed. If noises or changes in how your vehicle stops are noticed, it might be time to take it in for a brake inspection.

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Function Of A Fuel Filter

The fuel filter isn’t a typical part many think about when it comes to their vehicle. It’s just one small component of a vehicle’s fuel system. However, it plays a considerable role and should be looked at more closely. Fuel filters are found on almost every internal combustion engine. The fuel system filter can be located under your car fitted on the gas line. They feature a filter paper inside that removes contaminants from your gasoline. The fuel filter’s job is to remove pollutants before they make their way to your vehicle’s engine. While it might not look like a big job, it is. The fuel filter can be compared to your car’s air filter. In a sense, it screens what is going into your engine. For the best performance of your car’s engine both need to be free of dirt, debris, and other contaminants. An engine’s performance relies on the clean gasoline. The cleaner the gas the more efficient it will burn.

Why and When You Should Replace Your Fuel Filter?

Over time, a fuel filter can become clogged, extremely dirty, or become faulty. When a filter is clogged, it restricts the flow of gasoline to your vehicle’s engine. So it’s necessary to have it replaced. But how does a fuel filter become faulty? Whenever you fill up your gas tank, you are allowing outside particles to get into the fuel system. Paint chips are a commonly found particle in fuel filters because of paints proximity to the where you insert the gas nozzle. Another known containment is rust. Rust is horrible on engines but is a known problem for any vehicle that is exposed to moisture and has steel parts. If these particles make their way through the fuel system, they can cause some significant issues. The most notable ones being clogged fuel injectors or damaging the fuel pump. It is best to replace a fuel filter so damage won’t be done to these more expensive components of your fuel system.

When should you replace your fuel filter? There are many signs it could be time to replace the fuel filter. The easiest sign to identify is if your car has trouble starting and has a rough idle. Other signs could be an engine dies while idling, shakier engine, and a vehicle that struggles at slower speeds. It is best not to wait if you are noticing any of these signs. A pretty good indication that your fuel system is working correctly with a good chance the fuel filter is the culprit. The recommendation for vehicles is to have their fuel filter changed at a somewhat regular interval. If you suspect your car has a faulty fuel filter, Ryan GMW can help! Maintaining a clean fuel filter can ensure your other fuel system parts will remain in good working order.

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When Is It Time To Replace Your Car Battery?

The battery is possibly one of the most important features of your vehicle. It makes everything happen. Without one your car wouldn’t start, you couldn’t operate any lights, and there would be no radio. As a crucial component of your vehicle, it is a good idea to know when you to replace the battery. It is also good to see warning signs that your battery is going bad.

While a vehicle not starting can often be confused with the starter, a battery problem presents itself differently. Some red flags will give you a good indication that it is time to replace your car battery and they can include the following. How To Clarify Which You Have: A Starter or Battery Problem?

Slow Engine Starts

If you turn the key to your vehicle and it doesn’t start right up or takes longer than usual, this could be a significant indicator you need a battery replacement.

Low Battery Fluid

Checking the battery fluid is one way to see if your car’s battery is on the way out. Some cells have a see-through part of the casing that will allow you to check the fluid level. If the fluid drops below the lead plates, it is time for a new one. Ryan GMW can perform a battery fluid check to see if this is indeed the issue and recommend a battery replacement.

Leaking Battery

Almost everyone has seen this universal sign on a battery. When a cell leaks it creates corrosion. A white buildup presents this, that is typically on the positive and negative posts. There is a good chance you aren’t getting the best connection to the battery corrosion being present. While you can clean the terminals and get a little more life out of the battery, it is also a sign you will probably need a replacement shortly.

Swollen Battery Case

With excessive heat in the engine bay and outside, this can cause a battery to become swollen. The battery will not have it’s same square or rectangle shape. It could have a bulge or bulges on the sides or top of the battery. A bloating battery case will ultimately mean the battery’s life is shortened.

The Age Test

Batteries don’t last forever. While batteries do last a very long time, it is encouraged to have them inspected after three years. After this amount of time, it is a good idea to check it annually. It will ensure it’s operating correctly and free of corrosion. If your car has a ten-year-old battery in it, and you have any of the other symptoms of a failing battery, then it is probably time to replace.

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Vehicle Checkup 101: Types Of Vehicle Inspections (UPDATED)

Vehicle inspections are very useful for car owners. They paint an accurate picture of the health of the vehicle. There are a few different types of controls that can be done, and each one serves a purpose. In California, if your car is six years or older you must have an emission inspection done before you can get your vehicle legal to drive. It is the most commonly done vehicle inspections for any automotive shop. Aside from the state requirements of needing a smog certificate, some great vehicle inspections can be done at Ryan GMW that can help identify any problems that could be happening with your vehicle.

Fluid Inspection

Cars rely very heavily on the fluids that run them. It can include engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and differential fluid. When a vehicle experiences any leak, fluid will be lost. Having a checkup of all your essential fluids can help extend the life of many of the parts on your car.

Exhaust Inspection

If there is a problem with your exhaust system, your car will produce more smog into the air that is no good for the environment. California smog laws make having to have exhaust inspections a necessary part of owning a vehicle. Aside from the environmental aspect, exhaust leaks can sound horrible, and even create performance issues. An exhaust inspection will include everything from the manifold or headers down to the tailpipes. Typical items found in the exhaust system are leaks from exhaust tubing and clogged catalytic converters.

Suspension Inspection

The ride quality of your vehicle can be traced to the suspension parts underneath it. Struts, shocks, springs, tie rod ends, control arms are some of the leading parts. Having a suspension inspection done can save your vehicle from having some serious problems. Since many of the suspension parts are tied in with one another, if one piece is not working correctly it can throw off other parts. Identifying a problem before it becomes a more significant issue is the main reason to have the suspension looked at.

Brake Inspection

Brakes are one of the most common concerns for drivers. It is with good reason. The brakes are what keeps your vehicle stopping and is essential for the safety of all drivers on the road. When brakes aren’t functioning correctly, your car won’t stop when it needs to. A brake inspection can identify if it is about time to change your brake pads, if your brake lines look good, and if the rotors are in good shape.

Tire Inspection

A tire inspection can give indications on if you need a wheel alignment because of uneven wear, or if it is just time to replace worn out tires. It can also help identify if it is time for a tire rotation service.

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Power Steering Issues & Why They Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Back in the day, many cars weren’t equipped with power steering, and driving was, let’s just say a little more challenging. With its growing popularity, power steering became a standard on vehicles. Once your car has power steering problems, you will know it. There are all sorts of causes that a power steering system can fail, including, leaks, pump failure, and a broken belt. If a power steering issue is present should you just keep driving or fix it? Let’s take a look at the four reasons why you shouldn’t ignore a power steering issue.

1. Difficulty Steering

Perhaps the most common reason to not ignore a power steering problem is potential safety hazards. If you haven’t had the pleasure of running a car without it, it is undoubtedly more difficult. The problematic driving conditions can make things unsafe for you and other drivers on the road.

2. Could Indicate A Broken Serpentine Belt

The second you feel the loss of power steering, could be an indication of a serpentine belt that has broken or come off the pulleys. When a serpentine belt snaps your accessories under the hood will stop working this includes the water pump, alternator, and power steering pump. A quick check under the hood will tell you if a failed belt is the cause. Running a vehicle without its belt can result in loss of power while driving and overheating problems.

3. Could Indicate An Issue With The Steering Rack

The power steering rack is one of the critical components of your power steering system. It is part of the frame and pinion. One way to tell if the power steering rack is the culprit is that when you first start driving the steering wheel feels stiff. As you keep driving the steering wheel will get easier to turn. While it might be tempting to just deal through the rough steering till your car gets warmed up, the steering rack should be replaced. Otherwise, you might have to replace the rack and pinion.

4. Running A Power Steering Pump Dry Might Lead To Failure Of Unit

While it might take a while for the actual power steering pump to fail entirely if ran dry, it is indeed a possibility. As a simple fix, adding more power steering fluid can solve this problem. If the power steering pump fails, it will require replacement, and this can be somewhat expensive. A common symptom of a dry power steering pump is it will make a whining noise. This sound can be slightly annoying for daily driving.

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Importance Of Wheel Alignment

If you have ever driven a car that didn’t have proper wheel alignment, then you are familiar with the symptoms that make driving not as enjoyable. Many bonuses can come from keeping your vehicle’s alignment straight. Let’s take a look at the four compelling reasons why you need to have an arrangement done. The best part, some of these will save you money!

Improve Fuel Economy

A noticeable advantage when you have a wheel alignment service done is vehicle fuel usage improves significantly. Many drivers are unaware that their wheel alignment can, in fact, have some bearing on their overall fuel economy. When a tire isn’t traveling in a straight line, there will be more resistance. It is called rolling tire resistance. When your tire alignment is off the engine will have to work harder. The higher the strength, the more an engine will need ample fuel to overcome the added strain.

Reduce Wear on Suspension Parts

Having improper wheel alignment and balancing can damage your suspension parts. Driving for too long with a lousy adjustment can put a strain on the tie rod ends, ball joints, cv joints, or the wheel bearings. Once you start to hear funny sounds coming from the front end of your car, this is a sure sign that damage has been done, and parts will need to be replaced. By having an alignment done quickly, these suspension parts will be saved from further wear. In turn, this will save you money.

Extend The Life Of Your Tires

While tires do run down over time, with a bad alignment, you can guarantee the replacement of tires will happen much faster. Signs that a wheel alignment is affecting your tires is uneven wear. Whether the wear is on the inside or outside, there will be a noticeable difference in the tread. It is estimated that merely a few thousand miles on a bad tire alignment can take new tires to the point of needing to be replaced. Having an alignment service and balancing service is recommended each time you buy new tires. Prices for tires aren’t cheap, and having to replace them prematurely can become expensive.

Improves Driving Experience

Lastly, the driving experience will improve tremendously. After a car wheel alignment, the steering wheel will be straight, and the car will no longer drive to one side. It makes driving more relaxed, and more enjoyable.

Conclusion

A simple service such as a wheel alignment can save hundred in repairs on a vehicle, and fuel. It is a no-brainer why having one done is essential to the not just your pocketbook but also the ride quality of the car.

 

Related Articles:

Vehicle Checkup 101: The Different Types of Vehicle Inspections

Tire Care Tips You Can’t Afford To Miss

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How An Inspection Service Helps Improve Car Performance?

Have you ever wondered why your car isn’t acting the way it used to? Maybe it has been a little sluggish lately or even started making unusual sounds. One way that you can quickly determine what the problem is can be to have an inspection service done. An inspection service will be able to pinpoint any questions you might be experiencing. It might range from anything like a car needing a tune-up, to a more extensive problem.

There are a few different inspections you can have done at your automotive shop. The first being a simple tire inspection. If your tires are going wrong or wearing unevenly, they will not be able to hold power to the ground like newer tires. It can also tell you if you are having suspension and steering component issues. A tire inspection will only take a few minutes, but it will provide much-needed knowledge about how your car is performing in regards to suspension and steering.

The next type of inspection you can have done encompasses your engine and how well it is functioning. Many automotive shops will give this a name like a 47 point inspection, or something similar. Most of the time people will have this service done when something isn’t going right and want just to know what the problem is. This service might include checking your vehicles ECU for issues, or accessible parts of your engine compartment. If you’ll get to find something during this inspection, it is a good idea to have parts replaced. It will improve your car’s performance drastically. If you have a misfire, for instance, it reduces the power output your vehicle can make. Usually, the problem is as simple as having a tune up done.

Another type of inspection service an automotive shop can perform is an emissions test. These are typically done when you are needing to renew your plates or getting your vehicle licensed. However, it can be done at other times and will give some clues as to what is going on with your emissions system and performance issues. It there is a clogged Catalytic Converter, for instance, your car will experience a significant loss in power or even start to sputter at idle. Quickly correcting an issue here will get your car back to feeling like it used to.

Conclusion

There are a few different inspections a technician can do on your car. If he or she finds an issue with any one of the parts, you will be notified. If a problem exists, the sooner you replace or repair the parts that need attention, the sooner your car will be working at it’s best.

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6 Things That Make A Car Engine Less Effective

Every car owner wants to get the most out of their car, and it’s engine. When it is performing as it should, you won’t have any warning signs, and it will drive like it’s brand new. However, if you have noticed a loss in power or are hearing unusual sounds, this could mean that your engine has become less efficient. Let’s take a look at some of the signs that could be causing your car’s engine not to be operating at its full potential.

Vacuum Leaks

Pesky vacuum leaks can rob your engine of power. It can also create weird sounds from the engine bay. Some of the most notable signs can be a hesitation from your engine or even a sputter. The result will be a loss of power and poor fuel economy. At times, these are easy fixes; the hardest part is locating the leak.

Dirty Air Filter

An overly dirty air filter will restrict the amount of air that enters the intake of your engine. It is one of the primary actions that need to happen for your engine to run. Air mixed with fuel plus spark is the essential break down. If your air filter hasn’t been changed in a while, taking a quick look might help to identify if this is the issue. An air filter starts out white, if it is black, and filled with debris it is time for a change.

Exhaust Leaks

Just like a vacuum leak, exhaust leaks will steal power from your engine as well. They will have a slightly loud sound associated with the hole. Most everything in your engine works off of pressure. If there is an exhaust leak, it can cause gases to move back into the combustion chambers and not out of the car.

Clogged Fuel Injectors

A clogged fuel injector can cause a multitude of problems. You will have poor fuel economy for starters, and then a rough idle on top of that. If an engine is running to rich (using more fuel) or running lean (not using enough), it will result in a performance issue. You may also get a test engine light for this because often a misfire will happen. In more severe cases, a clogged injector may cause your engine to stall.

Loss of Oil between Oil Changes

In between oil changes, it isn’t uncommon for a car to have a minor loss in oil, more so in older vehicles. Newer vehicles don’t typically experience this. If you are losing oil, it could be from piston rings being worn out or even a leaking oil pan gasket. The only way to know for sure is to have an engine service done by an automotive shop.

Check Engine Light is Illuminated

The onboard diagnostics (OBD) can provide you clues as to what is going on with your vehicle. Engine diagnostics testing will allow a technician to gain insight into the problem. If a problem is found, fixing it should clear up any issue you might be having. Doing so will also turn the check engine light off, and no one likes seeing this on.

Conclusion

As you notice, there are a few issues that can happen with your engine and it’s components that will lead it not to perform the way it should. If you have a check engine light on, or it is running different bring it to a professional that can run a diagnostic test on it.