Smells, Bells and Vibrations
We’re sure most seasoned mechanics love the classics. Plenty of room under the hood, easy issues to diagnose and basic electrical – no computers or chips. Vehicles today are far more complicated, requiring specialized diagnostic equipment, tools, and a much broader range of knowledge. Even with all the “heavy” tech, many automotive repairs still come down to the dogged detective-like determination of your friendly, neighbourhood automotive technician. So how do they do it? How do they diagnose the issue when so many possibilities exist?
STRANGE SMELLS
A strong and pungent odour is a sure sign of something wrong with your vehicle. Something has gone awry if you smell oil or gas fumes, exhaust or burning rubber. Is the smell coming from outside, inside the cab or under the hood? Bring your vehicle directly to the repair shop. An experienced technician is likely aware of every smell your vehicle can make, so (using their nose) will quickly zero in on the source of the problem.
SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL
You’re likely familiar with the usual movements or vibrations if you’ve driven your vehicle for a while. If your vehicle starts to feel different – heavier vibration or shaking – it’s generally a mechanical issue. If you suddenly lose reverse or the vehicle has trouble shifting, it’s likely a transmission problem. Vibrations while driving could foreshadow a suspension or steering issue. It could also indicate a problem with the brakes. Notify your friendly, neighbourhood automotive technician immediately before the situation worsens. They know how your vehicle should “feel” and will quickly sense where the issues are originating.
UNUSUAL SOUNDS AND NOISES
A vehicle in sound running order should sound … quiet. Odd sounds and loud noises could indicate a serious mechanical issue. For example, creaks, squeaks, and groans might suggest a suspension-related problem. Grinding or squealing could result from worn brake pads, drums, or rotors. And a clicking, popping, slapping noise might be caused by a serpentine belt that’s coming apart. A loud thumping could be a tire tread or sidewall failure. Any unusual or out-of-the-ordinary noise should be reported immediately to your local service technician. They’ll have a listen and, with a keen ear, quickly decern what is making the unwanted sound.
Today, many new vehicles “throw” codes indicating the source of a problem. At Gearhead Automotive Services, we have the diagnostic equipment to interpret those codes should something go wrong, smell off or sound bad. And instead of simply throwing parts at a vehicle and hoping for a positive outcome, the Gearhead team has the experience and equipment to diagnose the problem and resolve the issue correctly.
In addition to a vast storehouse of knowledge, ongoing training and the latest diagnostic equipment, the skilled automotive technician will always rely (as well) on their five senses to help accurately diagnose a vehicle issue. That and a natural intuitive “knowing” that every successful technician has or develops with time and experience. A quick road trip is often all your skilled technician needs to zero in on the potential problem. From there – like any good detective – it’s simply a matter of elimination until the issue reveals itself.
At Gearhead Automotive Services, all work is performed by Red Seal Journeyman Technicians using the latest high-tech diagnostic equipment. This team wants to get to know your vehicle and build a long and mutually rewarding relationship with you! The team at Gearhead Automotive is ready with honest answers and helpful advice. So, when you take your vehicle to Gearhead Automotive Services, you’ll always get the straight facts!
We’re Gearhead Automotive Services – your one-stop Red Deer Mechanic. Find us at 7597 Edgar Industrial Drive. Call us at 403-358-5801 or email info@gearheadauto.com