If your town is anything like mine, the wreaths and garlands lining Mainstreet are just the first of many signs that the Christmas season is upon us. Coffee shops selling peppermint mocha, jingle bells accompany every song on the radio, and the profile of every house is traced with lights.

And how about the Christmas trees? These colorful displays are a family favorite.

It’s funny though, sometimes a Christmas tree reminds me of my days at the repair shop when one of my rather animated coworkers would use it to describe a vehicle with a lot of warning lights on: “Wow, this instrument cluster is lit up like a Christmas tree!”

If you’ve seen it before, you know that the imagery is very accurate. Instrument clusters in modern vehicles are packed with so many warning lights that it can be difficult to keep track of what they all mean. Even a seasoned technician can occasionally encounter an unknown symbol, especially in a new model year vehicle or unfamiliar vehicle brand.

Instead of trying to tackle them all, I thought it would be best to go over the basics that surprisingly, aren’t well-known to provide a guide to any car owner.

The 3 Distinct Colors Of Severity:

Although there are many lights on a dashboard, they do not all have the same level of importance. Some are considered indicator lights while others are true warning lights. Generally speaking, the color of the illuminated symbol provides insight into the severity of the issue.

1. Red naturally communicates a critical warning or safety issue that requires urgent attention. Common examples include the battery light (charging system) and the oil can light (engine oil pressure). Failures in the charging system and engine lubrication system can cause the engine to shut off and not restart, potentially stranding a vehicle in traffic.
   
2. Yellow is the next level down, presenting an alert and recommendation. Common examples include the engine light (check engine) and the tire light (low tire pressure). Problems indicated by these systems may or may not require immediate attention, but warrant further investigation to make that determination.
   
3. Lastly, blue and green are indicator lights that notify the driver of a certain condition. Common examples include the headlight bulb light (high beams) and left/right arrow lights (turn signals). The systems represented by these lights do pose a slight risk to other motorists if used inappropriately, so the indicators serve as a reminder to the driver that they are active.
   
   

Trouble Codes May Or May Not Be Stored

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are five-digit codes that can be stored in one or more onboard vehicle computers. Each DTC is unique and identifies a specific type of failure that was detected so that an automotive technician knows where to start testing.

In most cases, a warning light is illuminated because a DTC has been set, however, this is not always the case. The BRAKE indicator light is a great example of this because it can be a sort of indicator/warning light hybrid.

In some cases, it illuminates simply because the parking brake is applied. This condition is not a failure, so there’s no reason for a DTC to be stored, yet it is critical enough to the proper operation of the vehicle that it’s lit up and colored red.

Adding to the complexity of the scenario, the BRAKE indicator light can also come on as a low brake fluid warning, which may or may not set a DTC depending on the vehicle.

Lastly, the BRAKE light could illuminate in conjunction with the closely related anti-lock brake system (ABS) should that system detect a problem.

Multiple Warning Lights Do Not Necessarily Mean Multiple Failures

I’ve talked with enough customers to know that there is an extra amount of anxiety when they are blindsided by multiple warning lights coming on at once. The good news is that this doesn’t necessarily mean that there are multiple problems!

Some systems are very closely related and use many of the same parts. If one of these shared components has a problem, it makes sense that multiple systems would be affected.

Perhaps the best example of this is a faulty wheel speed sensor (WSS). The ABS and Traction Control system must know the speed of a wheel to determine if it is locking up or slipping. When a WSS fails, a wheel speed signal DTC is stored and three warning lights commonly pop on; BRAKE, ABS, and Traction Control.

One Or More Systems May Be Completely Disabled

Building on our WSS failure scenario, it is important to note that something else is taking place in the background; the affected systems are disabled. This might be the most crucial takeaway from this article.

Now, I do need to clarify a bit. If the BRAKE warning is on due to a WSS failure, the brakes aren’t disabled. The hydraulics will still work, however, the ABS light being on indicates that the system will not prevent wheel lockup. This is a safety concern for quick emergency stops, especially during inclement weather or on loose and sandy roads.

Some people might be thinking, “Meh, I’m a good driver. Vehicles didn’t have ABS back when I first started driving. I can do without.” That may be true, but consider this: a driver is not in control of the other vehicles on the road, and collisions are called accidents for a good reason.

Speaking of which, the other system I need to mention here is the supplemental restraint system (SRS). If the SRS light is on, there will not be any airbag deployment should the vehicle be involved in a collision.

But why would engineers design a vehicle this way? I think the logic behind it is that a disabled system is better than a malfunctioning system. In the case of an SRS malfunction, disabled airbags are only a problem if the vehicle wrecks, whereas an inappropriate airbag deployment could be the direct cause of an accident.

A Check Engine Light Discloses More Than You Might Think...

The Check Engine Light (CEL) is by far the most popular warning light of them all. Everybody has likely encountered it at one time or another.

Did you know that it has other names? Over the years and across vehicle manufacturers, this warning light has also been called a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) and Service Engine Soon (SES) light.

Regardless of what it’s called, there are three interesting and unique conditions that we can know for certain when it illuminates:

First, the CEL indicates that a DTC has been set in the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM). With early diagnostic systems, repair technicians had to jump certain wiring which would cause the CEL to flash in a morse code-like fashion to relay a two-digit code. Thankfully, DTCs can be retrieved more easily today via an onboard diagnostic (OBD) scanner.

Second, the CEL indicates that a failure has been detected that increases emissions. Wait a minute, doesn’t that mean that a DTC could be stored but not cause the CEL to come on? Absolutely! This might be news to even the car-savvy, but that’s how it works for vehicles sold in the United States.

Third, when the CEL is flashing, it indicates a cylinder misfire condition. A misfire damages the vehicle’s catalytic converter (which cleans up the engine’s exhaust emissions), therefore the CEL behavior is modified to help communicate the urgency of the situation.

As may be apparent, the CEL is all about diagnosing, repairing, and protecting the emission system.

In true Christmas fashion, let’s wrap this up and put a bow on it!

The 6 Things A Warning Light Can Indicate:

1. The severity of an issue
2. A DTC may or may not be stored
3. A system is active
4. A system is disabled
5. Emission levels have increased
6. Component damage is imminent
   

It’s amazing how such a simple warning system can have so much thought and design behind it. I hope that you have found this information helpful, or at the very least, interesting! From my family to yours, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

About the Author

Cody Hunt is a Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Graduate, ASE Master Certified Technician, and former Honda Master Technician. He has repaired vehicles in both independent and dealership environments and most recently provided warranty services for Nissan North America before joining the Wrench team. Cody is now providing technical insight for blogs, providing readers with an educated and transparent look into automotive maintenance and repair.

Since fall is in full swing, I thought writing about gremlins would be fun.

What Is A Gremlin?

A gremlin is a mischievous creature in English folklore that sabotages machinery. This myth became very popular amongst aviators during WWII and quickly spread to the automotive industry.

A Quick History Of The Gremlin

In 1970, American Motors (AMC) interestingly chose “Gremlin” as the model name for their new economy car despite the negative connotation. The vehicle’s designer reportedly tried to rebrand the word as “a pal to its friends and an ogre to its enemies.”

Today, the word gremlin is usually only brought up when a vehicle exhibits odd or unexplainable behavior.

I recently encountered such a situation on one of our backup vehicles; a 2003 Jeep Liberty. One evening, I was walking past it when I noticed the left rear window was about halfway down. It caught me off guard because I knew I had put the windows up before I parked it a few months ago.

Various questions flooded my mind. Did someone else drive it recently and forget to put it up, or did it go down on its own somehow? How long has the window been down without anyone noticing? Is there any damage to the interior from rainwater?

I grabbed the key inside the house and started to investigate my concern. Thankfully the interior wasn’t wet, but the back seat did look dirtier than usual.

With the ignition in the ON position, the master window switch would not operate the window up or down. The window motor inside the door could be heard operating, but the glass wasn’t moving. I took hold of the window glass and was able to move it up and down in the window channel, which confirmed it was a mechanical problem rather than an electrical issue.

I’ve seen several different internal door problems that can produce these symptoms; the window glass mounting tabs can separate, or the window regulator linkage can break.

Window Mounting Tabs

Window mounting tabs secure the window glass to the window regulator. Tab designs vary from vehicle to vehicle, but they are mostly made of plastic and permanently glued to the glass. If the plastic tabs break, window glass replacement is often necessary.

Window tab replacement isn’t impossible, but it’s usually not practical from a business standpoint. Tabs are not typically serviceable, meaning they are not sold separately as direct-fit replacement parts. They can be purchased in a universal format, but there are no guarantees that the fitment will be correct for the regulator mounting hole or glass channel. Then, if a suitable replacement part is sourced, there’s the problem of removing the broken plastic and epoxy from the surface of the glass without breaking it.

The Window Regulator

A window regulator is a mechanism powered by the window motor that raises and lowers the window glass. There are multiple regulator designs; some use lever arms, while others use cables. The regulator must be replaced if a cable snaps or the linkage pivot point separates.

How A Window Regulator Works

To help illustrate how a window regulator works, imagine you are using a pair of scissors. As your fingers move away from each other, the height of the scissors lowers, and when they come together, the height raises. This is precisely how a scissor-type window regulator raises and lowers window glass.

A cable-type window regulator is comparable to an elevator, where an electric motor pushes and pulls on a set of cables to raise and lower the load. This style is popular in modern vehicles.

Most new window regulators now come with pre-installed motors; this was not the case when I started my career. The benefits of replacing a window motor/regulator assembly are that the issue will be resolved whether the failure is in the regulator or the motor, there is less replacement labor involved, and it alleviates worry about the OK portion of the assembly potentially failing in the near future.

Removing The Door Panel

Now, let’s get back to the Jeep Liberty. Using a special tool to suspend the window glass, I removed the door panel mounting screws and popped the door panel retaining clips loose.

Next, I disconnected the linkage to the door handle and removed the panel. Then, I removed the audio speaker and gently pulled the vapor barrier away from the door to expose the internal door latch and window mechanisms.

When I removed the spring clip that connects the window tab to the regulator, I observed that the tab was intact, which isolated the issue to the regulator. Next, I loosened the mounting bolts for the window motor and regulator, unclipped the door lock linkage, and positioned it out of the way.

With the window motor and regulator loose, I was able to access the window motor’s electrical connector and disconnect it. I then removed the window motor/regulator assembly from the door.

The new window motor/regulator assembly was visually different, presumably an updated or improved design over the original. I transferred the bolts from the old mounting brackets to the new assembly and installed it into position.

After reinstalling all of the other parts in reverse order, I validated the repair by operating the window using the master window switch; it worked perfectly.

In The End

In the end, there wasn’t any window gremlins for me to battle; sorry for the disappointment!

I do have to admit, though, this particular failure initially felt like someone had meddled with the vehicle. Perhaps through this experience, I got a taste of how those early aviators felt when something went wrong. But, of course, I can’t begin to imagine how spooky it would have been at 20,000 feet!

As fall is coming to a close and winter is approaching, the rainy weather is in full swing. Unfortunately, rain brings plenty of additional hazards to drivers' daily commuting or longer trips.

As the rainy season continues, there are significant changes to the roadway that all drivers should acknowledge. Rain decreases the traction that a vehicle can attain from a road. Even little rainfall can bring motor oil to the road surface, reducing tire traction. A considerable amount of rain can get even more dangerous on the road. Heavy rainfall causes even less traction and, in more challenging situations, hydroplaning.

What Is Hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning, sometimes referred to as aquaplaning, is the term used to describe when a layer of water builds between the wheels of any vehicle and the roadway. This layer of water results in a significant loss of traction and prevents the car from responding to control inputs. Hydroplaning occurs when there is more water on the roadway than the tires can displace.

When To Be Wary Of Hydroplaning

Large puddles and other significant amounts of water on the road can result in hydroplaning when the tires cannot move the water to make contact with the pavement. Hydroplaning can occur at any time there is water on the road. Large build-ups of water, or even the first 10 minutes of light rainfall, pose severe risks of hydroplaning.

Light rain is accompanied by slick roadways that drivers often overlook. Large puddles of water, although more obvious, pose the same reduced traction risk.
Vehicles driving above 35 miles per hour have an increased risk of hydroplaning because the higher the speed a car is moving, the less time the tires have to displace the water.

7 Ways To Avoid Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is often unexpected and can result in overcorrection, like many other driving hazards.

1. Slow down

An increased speed in iffy weather is never a good choice. When it rains, traction is reduced. By lowering your speed, you will have more control while driving and more reaction time in case something goes awry.

2. Don't use cruise control on wet roadways

Applying cruise control at high speeds during rain or on a wet road puts you at the risk of hydroplaning. Cruise control can make hydroplaning even worse, as it tries to keep your vehicle continuously moving at the same speed.

3. Avoid large puddles and stagnant water

An accumulation of water on roads heightens your risk of losing control as traction is decreased.

4. Make sure your tires are in good condition

Worn tread on tires automatically reduces the traction your vehicle can get on the road. Adding in the hazard of slick roads, you are at a much higher risk of hydroplaning. Buying the right tires, properly maintaining, and replacing them when needed are some of the best steps that you can take to avoid hydroplaning.

5. Maintain a safe distance

Maintaining the proper distance between you and other vehicles on the road is always a safe choice. It becomes an even more vital step when rainy weather is apparent. Maintaining a safe distance allows you the proper time to stop if needed and avoid a crash.

6. Properly inflate your tires

Much like worn tread, the inflation of your tires plays a considerable role in maintaining an excellent grip on the road. Improperly inflated tires can drastically reduce the control and performance of your vehicle. If your tires are underinflated, too much of the tire's surface is touching the road, increasing the friction. If your tires are overly inflated, the center of the tread can bow out and wear out first and faster, and the car has a less pleasant driving experience.

7. Get your tires rotated regularly

It is recommended that most drivers get their tires rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This allows for the tires to wear evenly. Often, the front tires on a car will wear more quickly than the rear. By rotating the tires, throughout their life, all four tires will wear evenly. This means you will be able to replace all four tires at the same time.

What To Do If You End Up Hydroplaning

Like any other unexpected occurrence when driving, hydroplaning can be scary. However, the most crucial step is to avoid overreacting and overcorrecting.

Remain calm

Maintaining composure is essential to any unexpected situation while driving. Remaining calm will allow you to think and act in a way that de-escalates the problem.

Slow down

It is crucial to avoid slamming on the brakes. This can result in total control loss and cause the vehicle to spin out. A gradual decrease in speed will produce the best results without further loss of control.

Pump your brakes

Using a light pumping action on the brake pedal will allow you to decrease your speed at a moderate rate, preventing further loss of control.

Steer into the skid

Although this may seem backward, steering into a skid can help the tires regain traction. Turning into the skid allows your tires to realign and can also help you regain steering control.

Wait until you regain traction

Once you can steer regularly, you are no longer hydroplaning. Once you have regained control of your car, drive cautiously to avoid further hazards.

As fall ends and winter approaches, weather produces dangerous conditions and roadways. Making sure that your vehicle is properly maintained can help guarantee safe travel.

If you haven't already, book an appointment with Wrench to ensure your car is prepared for the changing weather.

My family used to take a couple of vacations every year when I was a kid. Over spring break, we’d go skiing with friends in Colorado, and then in the summertime, we’d find someplace further north to go camping.

One year we decided to pack up and head for Yellowstone National Park to see what all the hype was about. I remember dad had the old pop-up camper hooked onto the ‘92 Ford E-150 with a custom PVC bike rack on top.

Tire pressure? Check.

Fluid levels? Check.

Trailer lights? Uh oh…

We walked around to the back of the trailer and found that none of the lights were working which posed a serious safety concern.

I think that ordeal set us back at least half a day. Dad had the van’s rear interior trim panels out, new wires tapped into the body harness, and ran out the back doors to the camper. The rest of the family, including myself, was of no help, but he finally got it operational, and we were on our way.

Those of you with a utility trailer, boat, or camper are probably nodding your heads right now because you’ve been there; it’s always the exterior lights, isn’t it?

That’s the exact reason why I was sympathetic towards my neighbor, Dave. I was out replacing the battery in a Jeep down the road when he spotted me. Dave also owns a Jeep, but for some reason, when he hooked up his boat trailer to it, the trailer lights didn’t work.

Dave’s Trailer Concern

I happen to like Dave, and when he told me that he wanted to get it working so he could take his grandkids to the lake, how could I not help?

I don’t know much about boats, but I think this one looks neat. Dave said that he and his wife bought it brand new back in 1976 and have had it serviced at several different locations over the years.

Unfortunately, as my eyes moved down towards the trailer, it became evident that it would probably not be a quick fix.

You see, exterior lights not working on a trailer can be caused by several things on the towing vehicle or the trailer itself. Although my experience and initial observations told me that the problem was more than likely in the trailer, it’s wise to attack a wiring issue with the “divide and conquer” method.

What does that mean? I’m glad you asked!

Splitting the potential problem area in half helps to isolate the issue quickly. Considering the length of the Jeep and the trailer, there are about 30 total feet of wiring where the issue could reside. By disconnecting the trailer wiring connector from the Jeep and testing there, I could see if the problem existed in the front 15 feet (Jeep) or the rear 15 feet (trailer).

I’m normally a digital multimeter kind of guy, but when it comes to trailer harness testing, I prefer a test light.

A test light is a great tool for quickly checking for power and ground on non-sensitive circuits. They really shine (if you’ll forgive the pun), with turn signal testing because they simply flash instead of showing a voltage reading jumping all around.

The circuit testing topic will usually spark a debate that inevitably ends with a 30-year veteran mechanic elaborating on how the industry should have never gone away from analog meters, so let’s move on quickly!

A Trailer Wiring Guide

Dave’s Jeep has power and ground everywhere it’s supposed to on the white, brown, yellow, and green wires. Trailer wiring colors have been more-or-less standardized in our light-duty vehicles and trailers, so I didn’t need a wiring diagram this time.

The white or black wire is always ground. The easiest way to remember that is by the connector terminal being opposite (male or female) from the three signal wires.

The next wire over is the brown wire which is the tail light signal; it should only have power when the headlight switch is turned to the ON position.

The following two wire functions, the left and right turn signals, were really difficult for me to recall early on in my career when I was repairing trailers for our local Budget location.

Since you’ve made it this far in the article, I’ll share with you a strategy I created for remembering; the yellow wire contains the letter “L,” which represents “Left,” while the green wire contains the letter “R,” which represents “Right.” Each wire should have power when the turn signal switch is in its respective position and when the brake pedal is pressed.

Getting back to Dave’s trailer, I performed a walk-around inspection and found that several new LED tail lamps had been installed.

A closer examination revealed a less-than-ideal wiring connection that needed to be addressed, but before doing so, I took advantage of it as a testing location. And you guessed it - no test light illumination.

I went back to the front and used the various household wire nuts that someone had installed during a previous repair in the same way. There wasn’t power present at any of the signal wires while using the trailer frame as a ground path, but there was when using vehicle ground. This indicated a trailer ground issue, which is very common, and a visual inspection of the ground location confirmed a poor connection.

The Trailer Wiring Repair

Trailer ground connections often have issues because of their location near the trailer tongue and exposure to the elements. Over time, the metal ground terminal can rust if not adequately protected and/or become damaged from accidental contact.

Considering the lack of acceptable ground options near the coupler, I ran a new wire inside the tongue to utilize a pre-existing ground location at the marker light. I also applied dielectric grease to all exposed metal surfaces to help protect the connection against water intrusion.

Speaking of water intrusion, many DIY wire connectors I see installed in vehicles and on trailers are not waterproof. Non-waterproof connectors may be fine inside the cabin (if you must), but they will corrode and rust when used anywhere else. Household wire nuts are simply the worst for this!

My favorite style connector is one made of heat shrink and solder. Due to price and availability in my location, I’ve been using crimp-type heat shrink connectors, which are an acceptable alternative.

I went ahead and repaired every connection I could find using waterproof connectors. I suspect the rear tail lamp connections wouldn’t have lasted a season, considering they are consistently placed underwater when loading and unloading the boat.

Before those final connectors were sealed, I validated the repair by ensuring my test light was illuminated when connected between the signal wires and trailer frame, which was now properly grounded.

As I was finishing up, my wife and I happily listened to Dave’s work stories from before his retirement.

I think he may have lit up more than the tail lamps when I finally flipped the headlight switch on; we could tell he was excited to know that his grandchildren would have an absolute blast in the following days.

Glossary

About the Author

Cody H. is a Universal Technical Institute Graduate, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician, and a former Honda Master Technician. He has repaired vehicles in independent garages and dealership service departments alike and most recently worked in the Warranty Department at Nissan North America before joining the Wrench team. Cody is now providing technical insight for blogs, supplying readers with an educated and honest glimpse into the world of automotive maintenance and repair.

Have you ever asked a mechanic for advice only to get bombarded with follow-up questions? If so, what you experienced was the start of a methodical repair process known as "The Three C's." The three C's are as follows; Concern, Cause, and Correction.

Each of these pillars is essential and cannot be rearranged or discarded. They are the core structure of the vehicle repair process and, if adhered to correctly, will ensure your car is fixed right the first time.

CONCERN

Being the customer, this is your concern, and nailing it down will help the mechanic immensely.

Step 1: Notice The Concern

Concerns are symptoms that you've experienced that are prompting the repair visit. Symptoms can originate from any of the human senses, including sight, sound, smell, or touch. Conversely, a concern is not what you think the problem could be nor a specific repair you are scheduling.

For example, if you hear a grinding noise when coming to a stop and suspect that the brake pads are worn out, your actual concern is the grinding sound.

Sounds easy enough, right?

Step 2: Observe The Concern

As it turns out, obtaining a customer's symptoms is a great starting point but is far from complete in a mechanic's mind. To fully understand how to reproduce the concern (which we will discuss later), the context of the symptom must be disclosed.

The easiest way to explain this would be by taking you back to your elementary school days.

Your birthday is just around the corner, so you decide to write up some invitation cards for your friends. Do you remember what we used to write? Who, What, Where, Why, When & How.

The answer to those questions completely satisfied our friends' parents, and the same is true for your mechanic!

Who

• …experienced the symptom? (If not self, the information is being relayed 2nd hand)

What

• …type of symptom was experienced? (Abnormal sight, sound, odor, or feeling)
• … kind of road and weather conditions were present? (Speed bumps, gravel, rain, snow)

Where

• …was the symptom originating? (Right-front, left-rear, steering wheel, brake pedal)
• …was the vehicle when the symptom presented? (Highway, parking lot, stop-and-go traffic)

Why

• …is this a concern? (Annoying, seems unsafe, was told it was abnormal, online forum advice)

When

• …in the day, did the symptom present? (Morning, afternoon, evening, night)
• …operationally, does the symptom present? (Turning, accelerating, coasting, braking, idling)

How

• …regularly does the symptom present? (Frequently, intermittently, rarely)
• …warmed-up was the engine? (Cold, operating temperature, overheating)

Granted, not all of these questions will always apply; however, it is a best practice to be observant of these items and relay the applicable information when deemed appropriate.

Let's apply this to our grinding noise example from earlier to form a proper customer concern:

Yesterday morning on the way to work, I heard a grinding noise from the front of the car when I stepped on the brake pedal. The noise went away whenever I let off the pedal but returned when I pressed it again. As a result, I'm concerned that my brakes are going out and that, eventually, I won't be able to stop.

CAUSE

Determining the Cause of your Concern is the mechanic's responsibility. This is when the proverbial rubber meets the road; a mechanic will consider all the information you've provided during the "concern" step and then work on isolating the source.

Step 3: Verify The Concern

The first step is to "verify the concern," which is much easier to do with proper symptom context. If the concern cannot be reproduced, chances are high that any repair recommendation will be an educated guess that may or may not resolve the issue.

Some problems are frustratingly intermittent. Have you ever wondered why the problem doesn't ever occur when you need it to?

Interestingly, a somewhat laughable "Mechanic's Curse" implies that your concern will never be present for a mechanic.

Years ago, one of my customers was convinced that this so-called curse was confirmed after I rode along during three different test drives on three additional days without being able to experience her concern. Finally, at her wit's end, she jokingly offered to pay me to ride along indefinitely to "fix" the problem (to which I politely declined). The point is that sometimes these things happen at no fault of the mechanic or a supposed curse.

After the concern is reproduced, testing can begin.

Step 4: Test The Concern

The type of tests performed primarily depends on the failure's nature. For instance, a warning light concern typically calls for intricate circuit testing following the Original Equipment Manufacturer's (OEM) unique procedure. A rattle noise concern, however, is usually diagnosed through a series of physical looseness checks.

A seasoned automotive technician will use knowledge, experience, and reference material to determine the best way to diagnose your particular issue.

Additionally, I would be remiss not to touch on the "diagnostic machine" topic.

Somehow our culture has adopted the idea that there is a tool in a mechanic's arsenal that will determine the exact component that needs to be replaced; all that's required is to plug it into the vehicle, and "Voila!" On behalf of all mechanics worldwide, please tell us if such a thing exists because we'd buy it in a heartbeat!

The tool portrayed here is the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD-II) scanner. OBD-II scanners have an extensive range of capabilities which generally increase with unit cost. Whether $50 or $5,000, the primary purpose of the scanner is to retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

DTCs can point toward an issue with a component, circuit, or system, but this is just a starting point for the mechanic. There's also no limit for codes, meaning that there can be multiple codes in one or more systems. It's not all that uncommon to have more than ten codes at the time of retrieval; hence DTCs are more like observations than conclusions.

CORRECTION

Once the cause of your concern has been adequately isolated, the technician will recommend an action to Correct the issue.

This is often a physical repair but could also be an adjustment, recalibration, or software update. With the repair completed, it's time for the final step, which also happens to be the most overlooked and undervalued one; validating the repair.

Step 5: Validate The Repair

"Validating the repair" is close to "verifying the concern" from our previous section, but not entirely.

Repair validation includes confirming that your concern doesn't return and that no other issues have been presented. Failing to do this could result in a quick return visit, commonly referred to as a "comeback."

A comeback carries a certain amount of shame in the automotive repair culture. So while we want customers to keep coming back to us for work, we don't want it to be because we misdiagnosed or made any other mistake.

That said, not all comebacks result from workmanship errors; sometimes, an additional pre-existing issue can be masked by the original problem.

Regardless, a vehicle should be thoroughly test-driven following a repair to expose potential issues. Professional mechanics enjoy knowing that your concern has been resolved and that you are at least made aware of any other matter that may require future attention.

Let's recap:

1. You notice the concern and document any helpful details
2. The mechanic verifies the concern and isolates the cause
3. The mechanic recommends a correction and resolves the concern

In conclusion, I hope you've found this article to be a helpful glimpse into how the vehicle repair process works. I genuinely believe that the customer's role is vital, and by having a better understanding of the steps included, you are empowered to help the mechanic more efficiently restore the vehicle to its proper operating condition.

About the Author

Cody H. is a Universal Technical Institute (UTI) Graduate, ASE Master Certified Technician, and former Honda Master Technician. Before joining the Wrench team, he repaired vehicles in independent and dealership environments and most recently provided warranty services for Nissan North America. Cody now provides technical insight for blogs, providing readers with an educated and transparent look into automotive maintenance and repair.

At Wrench, the employees provide a one-of-a-kind work environment. Even as the team is spread out across the country, there is still a connection between everyone as we work to achieve a collective vision. The importance of stress-free and accessible car care and maintenance brings together the different branches and companies within Wrench.

Today, we want to take the time to acknowledge some of the teams that received internal shout-outs. It is essential for Wrench to recognize and praise the hard work of our teams across the board.

Rei G.

Rei is part of the Customer Support Team at Wrench. She is known for her patience and helpful attitude. Rei's helpful and uplifting attitude makes her positive energy within the team, which hasn't gone unnoticed by her peers.

Zach Z.

Zach is a service advisor for Wrench. He was nominated by peers, even though he is a remote worker, which speaks volumes of his work quantity and quality.

"Zach is always spot-on with responses and quick to do some research on quotes. He remains professional and cordial, even with the work he endures daily. He is always willing to go above and beyond to get actual mechanic work secured for fleet jobs instead of just oil changes and diagnostics. Thank you for all that you do!"

Tom B.

Tom is a technician with Wrench, based in the Indianapolis area. Tom is known for his reliability, knowledge, and can-do attitude.

Aliesha S.

Aliesha is a vital part of the SWIS team. She was nominated because of her strong work ethic and helpful attitude. Aliesha excels in helping her peers with computer problems and enjoys hiking and kayaking outside work.

Sam D.

Sam is a Service Advisor with Wrench. Sam is known for his timely responses and his drive for efficiency. He was nominated because he continuously puts in the extra effort to problem solve and support the team.

Trent B.

Trent is the Director of Business Operations with Wrench. Trent is always busy but never misses a chance to help anyone in need. He is known for his extreme knowledge of Wrench, his problem-solving abilities, and his Excel expertise.

Fun Fact about Trent: He has a theater degree (which has come in handy when the office needs someone for social media).

LaShane W.

LaShane is a Reviewer for Lemon Squad. LaShane is known for a strong work ethic and exceptional customer service.

Bryan G.

Bryan is part of the customer service team with Lemon Squad. He is known for his exceptional customer service and always works with an outstanding air of professionalism.

Denise A.

Denise is a manager at Lemon Squad. Denise is known for her dedication, kind attitude, and patience. Denise works hard as a manager and often takes on responsibilities beyond her own to help the team.

Dawn D.

Dawn is a part of the Lemon Squad team and is often acknowledged for her hard-working nature and ability to multitask constantly. A good multitasker can enforce quality standards while still producing large quantities. Dawn maintains that standard in everything she does.
Her coworker that nominated her said:

"Dawn is extremely helpful, has taught me a lot, and is great to work with."

Stephanie J.

Stephanie also works on the Lemon Squad team. She is known for her can-do attitude and her sense of humor by her coworkers, with whom she works closely. As a result, she could transition smoothly to a new role without complaint.

Brett L.

Brett is the Lead Reviewer with Lemon Squad. Brett is detail oriented in all aspects of his job.

The coworker that nominated Brett said he was:

"A dedicated employee with an excellent eye for detail, maintains a high professionalism, is an excellent communicator, and provides outstanding mentorship."

Janet M.

Janet is an office manager at Southwest Inspection Services. Janet is known for her kind personality and excels at diffusing tense situations. Janet was nominated multiple times by different coworkers, reinforcing her outstanding performance.

One of the coworkers that nominated her said:

"​​I have worked with Janet for nearly a decade; she is encouraging, supportive, kind, and always there for me when I need her."

Mike B.

Mike is also part of the SWIS team. Mike is known for his dedication and commitment to the management of other employees. Outside of work, Mike enjoys long-distance bike riding.

Mike was nominated because:

"Mike stands out because of the continued effort he puts in to ensure all of the employees of the SWIS department are cared for and that they strive for the bar of excellence he sets. "

Alex W.

Alex is a service advisor on the Wrench team. He is known for his quick responses and exceptional attitude.

His coworker that nominated him said:

"By the end of every consultation, he's managed to help me and put a smile on my face and the customer's face as well!"

Nicole R.

Nicole is the operations manager at Wrench. Not only is Nicole exceptional at spreadsheets, but she is also internally known as the Google queen because of her ability to find nearly anything through web searching. In addition, she was nominated by multiple teammates because of her passion, helpful nature, and professional approach to work.

Chase D.

Chase is an Operations Coordinator Intern at Wrench. After only a few months, Chase has integrated into the Ops team seamlessly. He is known for his quick ability to learn new tasks and kind demeanor. The coworker who nominated Chase highlighted that Chase could "expertly and efficiently walk new technicians through orientation"  only one month in.

Chris F.

Chris is an accounting analyst at YourMechanic. Chris has taken on a large workload and quickly adapted. Chris is dependable and professional and goes the extra mile in everything he does at work.

The coworker that nominated Chris said:

"He is very punctual! It's great to have an accounting analyst who loves numbers... even numbers on a clock! And don't worry about forgetting things... Chris will remind you. He's a great recordkeeper."

James H.

James is an Assistant Service Advisor with Wrench. James is known for his helpful nature and dedication to a well-done job.

James was nominated by multiple coworkers, one of who said:

"James is willing and insistent on going above and beyond in everything that comes across his desk, every time. He has been an instrumental asset to his colleagues, his service manager, and anybody else who asks for help. Often sacrificing his personal time to ensure that each aspect of this team runs smoothly, we can always count on James to get it done. "

Cassandra M.

Cassandra is part of the Operations team at Wrench. She is known for her strong work ethic and help.

Bob U.

Bob is the Service Director at Wrench. He is known for his excellent multitasking skills and strong work ethic. In addition, he has extensive knowledge of automotive repairs and diagnostics, enabling him to excel when working with technicians.

Michael G.

Michael is one of the fantastic technicians at Wrench. He is known for his positive attitude and dedication to quality service. Michael strives to go above and beyond to make all his customers happy.

Aron G.

Aron is another outstanding technician at Wrench. He is known for his leadership skills and helpful demeanor. Even when Aron isn't scheduled to work, he still supports his coworkers if they need his help.

Jason D.

Jason is a Service Advisor with Wrench. He is known for being resourceful, patient, and helpful to his team.

One of his coworkers shared this story that embodies the support that Jason provides:

"Trying to diagnose a no start on a Ford F150SX the SXT, and he was able to pull up some information regarding the wiring diagram on Identifix where I did not have access to... The information he provided was crucial to diagnosing the car and Narrowing down the cause of concern."

David H.

David is a software engineer that works in Wrench's Seattle office. He is a behind-the-scenes kind of guy that always jumps to offer solutions. He keeps the Wrench systems running, builds impressive features, and sets the "quality" bar very high.

Kevin M.

Kevin is a Service Advisor with Wrench. He is known for his dedication and efficiency, all while continuously providing help and support to his team.

The coworker that nominated Kevin said:

"Kevin has rare capabilities in terms of speed and efficiency. He's always working hard, looking for feedback, and trying to improve. He's a great coworker who tries to foster a friendly team environment. I think very highly of his abilities."

Every person within the Wrench team and companies under that umbrella show dedication and passion daily. Each member's hard work and commitment make all of these companies unique and special.

So, for Labor Day, we want to thank all of the Wrench, YourMechanic, LemonSquad, and Southwest Inspection Services members for working so hard every day and creating positive work environments for us and everyone involved.

As we settle into life in a post-pandemic world, finding safe and affordable auto repair is as important as ever. Mobile mechanics stepped in to fill a need for alternatives brought about by COVID-19. Yet more and more people are discovering the everyday benefits mobile repair offers, and Wrench is proof the age of mobile mechanics is here and here to stay.

The Rise Of Mobile Mechanics

The concept of mobile mechanics was born out of the frustration from dealing with traditional auto repair shops and was around long before COVID entered our vocabulary. However, auto repair technology and viable communication methods had yet to emerge for a quality mobile repair network to be successful. The official launch of Wrench in 2016, though, changed everything.

Wrench’s innovative technology meant that an alternative to the high costs and hassle of traditional auto repair shops could finally be realized. In addition, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic thrust mobile auto repair into the spotlight, rebooting auto repair history and showing the world that mobile mechanics are the way of the future.

The Mobile Mechanic, Auto Repair, And The Pandemic

Mandatory shutdowns caused the closure of many auto repair shops, severely limiting auto repair options and adding to the uncertainty COVID-19 already brings to daily life. So, with a greater emphasis on self-care and social distancing came an increase in “mobile mechanics near me” online searches. It was the moment auto repair shops became obsolete. The mobile mechanic revolution had begun.

For many car owners, the pandemic marked the first time learning just what mobile mechanics are and how they can provide safe, contactless services no matter the time or place. Through it all, Wrench has maintained its place as the industry leader and innovator, providing an efficient way to locate safe and dependable auto repair options. With the Wrench network of certified mobile mechanics growing daily, finding a mobile mechanic near you has never been easier.

The Benefits Of Using A Mobile Mechanic

Mobile mechanics make auto repair stress-free and affordable while providing many other benefits that traditional auto repair shops cannot. These benefits make mobile auto repair a better choice for your well-being, wallet, and car.

Safety

Safety is a key benefit that placed mobile auto repair services front and center during the pandemic. Wrench services are 100% contactless so that you can maintain social distancing during the entire mobile repair process. In addition, Wrench mobile mechanics come to you, so you won’t have to worry about getting stuck in uncomfortable surroundings or dangerous situations.

Convenience

Convenience is another reason mobile mechanics make better sense than going to brick-and-mortar auto repair shops. You don’t have the headache of getting your car to an auto shop or waiting endlessly for the car to be fixed. Best of all, no more filthy waiting rooms. You schedule Wrench mobile mechanics to come at a time and location that is most convenient for you.

Wrench mobile mechanics are like having your own personal full-service auto repair shop. Our mobile mechanics are ASE-certified and can help you with a wide range of services from a simple oil change and wiper replacement to larger repairs, including battery replacement, emissions failure repair, brake pad replacement, flat tire repair, radiator replacement, and much more.

A Plethora Of Other Services

Of course, these aren’t the only benefits you get from using mobile mechanics. Other benefits of Wrench mobile auto repair services include:

• Fast and free quotes
• No surprise costs added to the quoted price
• A friendly, customer-centered experience
• Less repair time, more time for you
• 12,000 Mile/12 Month Warranty

No matter where or when you need auto repair service, rest assured Wrench mobile mechanics are available to provide all of these benefits and more, so you can get on with your day and get back on the road.

Mobile Mechanics Near Me

Every day more car owners are discovering a better way to search for a “mobile mechanic near me” without relying on Alexa or Siri. With Wrench, it’s easy to get started with just your zip code. You can find certified mobile mechanics near you, get a free quote, and schedule a mobile auto repair service, all in a matter of minutes.

The Future Of Mobile Auto Repair Is Now With Wrench

The future of mobile auto repair is now. Wrench leads the charge, setting a new standard for quality, convenience, and overall customer satisfaction. So, don’t get stuck in the past with traditional auto repair shops. Instead, enjoy all the benefits mobile mechanics offer. Contact Wrench and get a free quote today.

When you hand over the keys, trust is incredibly important. This is why Wrench celebrates their Tech of the Week each week: because you deserve a mechanic you can rely on.

Wrench chooses mechanics that go above and beyond their job description for each Tech of the Week spotlight. These technicians are why Wrench can guarantee timely, hassle-free, convenient, and quality service. Knowing that your mechanic acts in your best interest is invaluable and adds an additional layer of trust that can’t be found anywhere else.

All About Your Tech of the Week

Rick L. is a standout Wrench technician who exemplifies what a modern mobile mechanic should be—resourceful, driven, and knowledgeable. Rick joined Wrench’s Phoenix market in January of 2020, bringing with him his lifelong passion for fixing vehicles (30 years of it, to be exact).

Wrench is proud to have service members like Rick putting in the hard work and dedication necessary to support his customers and teammates. This recognition is incredibly deserved, and the rest of his peers are grateful for Rick’s skillset and strong character.

“He’s helped fabricate solutions to do jobs that seemed impossible in a mobile setting, possible. Even though Wrench is not primarily geared towards MD and HD vehicles at this time, he’s led the charge on what our technicians can do in the field, putting a lot of personal time and effort into making sure our clients are taken care of.”
Zach Z., Service Advisor

Rick, thanks for setting a high standard for technicians nationwide!

Why Wrench For Mobile Car Repair?

Wrench is a full-service auto repair shop without the shop! Our mobile mechanics service all types of cars and trucks, offering everything from oil changes and tune-ups to brake jobs and no-starts. Our certified mechanics can perform most jobs right in your driveway or at your workplace parking spot, giving you the freedom to spend your time on more important things.

Give Wrench a try today. We are confident you will be thrilled with how easy and painless it is to maintain and fix your car with the help of our friendly mobile mechanics near you! If you need service, you know where to find us. Rick and our other trained mechanics are available now for same-day service.

Imagine you are a kid again.

It is the peak of summer, and neighborhood games of tag are nearly an everyday activity. Each week it seems like the games get more competitive as you and your friends try to figure out who is really the quickest in the neighborhood - obviously, you are the last to get tagged and the first to tag others. You think you are faster than a race car.

Suddenly everyone stops, and you hear a familiar tune getting louder and louder. An ice cream truck! As the truck barrels down the street, everyone in the neighborhood jumps into action. You run to the house, open the door, and yell, "Mom, the ice cream truck is here!"

Your mom knows the drill, and without missing a beat, she walks with you, wallet in hand. You made it just in time. Now all that's left is deciding what kind of ice cream you want.

Don't you wish you could get that feeling again?

When the most stressful time of summer was making sure, you didn't miss the ice cream truck.

With Wrench's mobile mechanics, you can!

How? Here's The Scoop - Auto Repair And Maintenance Can Really Suck.

While your family is spending precious quality time at the park, you are tasked with taking your car to the shop. So naturally, the car needs a long list of overdue services - an oil change, a tire rotation, new windshield wipers, new air filters, a brake inspection, and topping off the fluids. On occasion, the shop may even have to order a part, changing your one-day errand into an extended period of inconvenience.

What if you could eliminate the inconvenience and get all of that - and more - delivered right to your door?

Introducing The Summer Maintenance Package

We have combined the most popular maintenance services for the summer and put them into a money-saving package to give you the sweetest deal possible.

With the Summer Maintenance Package, you will save over $100 on services crucial to keeping your car cruising.

This Package Includes:

• Oil and Filter Change
• Tire Rotation
• Brake Inspection
• Engine Air Filter Replacement
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement
• Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
• Battery Cleaning Service
• 22-Point Inspection

For a limited time, you can get an extra $20 off the Summer Maintenance Package with our discount code: SWEET20. Make your summer even sweeter with Wrench's mobile mechanics.

Book your appointment before this deal melts!

Our lives run on routines. There are morning routines before heading out to work. We have routines for grocery shopping and exercising. If you have young kids, you can add what feels like an extra ninety-nine routines to a typical weekday. The villains are time disruptors. They are the little things you didn’t see coming; before you know it, they can upend almost every routine you have. When it comes to your vehicle, you know there is a time villain lurking the moment you turn on the engine and hear something that doesn’t sound normal.

A Regular Car Maintenance Schedule Is Your Routine Within A Routine

At Wrench, our onsite service method is a contactless way to take care of your routine vehicle maintenance while you are engaged in your regular daily routines.

You know your vehicle will need a periodic oil change, an occasional tune-up, and new brake pads and shoes every so often. While these are maintenance routines for your vehicle, they can become time disruptors for you.

With jobs and kids and other routines in your week, car maintenance can become a scheduling nightmare unless you wait until the weekend– and let’s be honest, most of us don’t have the luxury to do that. Trading your precious free time to sit in a waiting room as the minutes crawl by is not our journey, and it shouldn’t be yours, either. We come to you and take care of maintaining your vehicle, so you don’t have to skip a beat with your normal daily routines.

Do You Know Your Car’s Maintenance Costs & Needs?

There are services that our vehicles routinely need, such as oil changes and signal light replacements, but does anyone really know everything that needs to be checked?- Our Wrench Certified Mechanics do.

Heading into the spring months, we know good vehicle maintenance is to check your air filters, AC system, tire pressure, battery, and change your fluids.

When entering the winter months, we know if you need winter-grade oil, to check your wiper blades and make sure your fluid has a deicer, to let you know if you need winter tires, if you have enough coolant to keep your engine from freezing, and the list goes on.

We shoulder the burden of vehicle maintenance knowledge, so you don’t have to, but we don’t want to keep you in the dark, either.

Wrench Empowers You With Vehicle Maintenance Knowledge

“I wouldn’t drive your car for more than a month with the way those bearings are looking.”

Have you ever heard a phrase like this when standing at your local repair shop? Our certified mechanics want to help you understand your vehicle so you know you are getting the services you need without unnecessary repairs that other repair shops will throw at you using scare tactics.

In fact, we have put together a list of questions to ask your mechanic. In addition, there are several more articles to help grow your personal vehicle knowledge database:

• When Should I Get My Brake Pads Replaced?
• Signs You Need A New Alternator.
• Prolonging Your Car Battery Lifespan.
• Symptoms Of Bad Wheel Bearings.
• What To Do After You Purchase A New Vehicle.
• Signs You Have A Bad Ignition Switch.
• Signs Your Car Is Having Exhaust Problems.

We have provided dozens more of these informative articles to empower you with automotive knowledge, so take some time to check those out or bookmark our blog to return to later.

Being Proactive, Stops The Time Villains

Certified Wrench mechanics are located in dozens of cities in thirty-five states and Washington D.C. We have an app you can download (Apple or Google Play), or you can connect with us anytime through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Summer is here, and with it comes unrelenting heat that can wreak havoc on your car and make for a miserable driving experience. However, you can follow a few summer car care tips to ensure your vehicle is in optimal summer driving condition, letting you stay cool and relaxed during your driving adventures all summer long.

Why Summer Heat Isn't Great For Vehicles

Hot weather can affect your car in various ways, from altering fluid levels to excessive wear and tear on your car's core systems. In addition, heat causes vehicles to overwork, potentially leading to overheating and other issues that can result in pricey repairs.

How To Lessen The Impact Of Summer Heat

The best way to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly in the heat is to follow a few basic steps for summer car care maintenance. Taking a few minutes to check tire pressure, top off fluid levels, and other quick tasks can go a long way to keeping your car on track for a great summer season.

Summer Car Care And Maintenance Tips For The Sun-soaked Season

Summer car maintenance may not be your idea of fun in the sun, yet it is well worth the effort compared to being stuck on the side of the road in the heat of the day. Wrench mobile mechanics are always ready to assist you, yet you can avoid the hassle of hot weather breakdowns and costly repairs with ten easy summer car care tips.

1. Check All Fluids

Your car needs fluids to stay cool and keep important functions and processes working as intended, especially in high heat. If fluid levels are too high or too low, they can adversely affect your car's performance and cause damage. So, check oil, coolant, brake, and power steering fluids before driving in the heat to prevent serious and costly repairs.

2. Cooling System Check

A cooling system is vital to keeping your car on the road. It expels excessive heat from the engine and helps maintain a consistent engine temperature needed for optimal performance. It's a good idea to check for radiator leaks and top off coolant levels during the summer months and throughout the year. You can also schedule a mobile mechanic for a complete cooling system diagnostic and maintenance service to give you added peace of mind before heading out on summer driving trips.

3. Test Battery

Heat can speed up battery fluid evaporation and oxidation, damaging components and leaving you with a faulty battery. Replacing batteries can be costly and frustrating. So, perform a battery test to help prevent battery degradation or failure during the hot weather and throughout the year.

4. Check Tire Pressure

Heat can cause fluctuations in tire pressure, so maintaining tires at the proper psi or pounds per square inch can help maintain optimal handling, braking, and fuel economy. You can usually find recommended psi levels in your car owner's manual, the plaque on the driver's side door jamb, or the sidewall of your car's tires.

5. Test Brakes

Your car's brakes are already subjected to intense heat caused by friction, and the heat is only intensified by the blazing summertime sun. Excessive heat speeds up brake wear and, in extreme circumstances, can cause brake fluid to boil, deteriorating braking capabilities. So, regularly testing brakes can limit summertime brake issues.

6. Check Air Conditioner

Nothing is worse than a car air conditioner pelting you with only warm air on a scorching hot day. You can prevent A/C issues and stay cool throughout the summer by regularly checking your car's air conditioner. A mobile mechanic can help identify issues and provide repairs and maintenance on the spot.

7. Change Oil And Oil Filter

Checking your car's oil levels and filters are necessary throughout the year, especially during the sweltering summer months. Heat affects oil's viscosity, consistency, and how it moves through and protects the engine. More intense summer heat combined with old or low oil can be a cause for concern. So, it's good to kick off the summer months with a fresh oil and filter change to ensure your vehicle is cruising at peak summertime performance.

8. Check Hoses And Belts

Loose, cracked, or overly worn belts and hoses can put a sudden stop to your summer driving adventures. So, inspect hoses and belts before venturing out into the heat. This way, you can avoid any failures caused by belts or hoses while on the road.

9. Check Windshield Wipers And Wiper Fluid

Driving during the summer months often means dealing with sudden downpours or a heavy dose of bugs splattered on your car's windshield. So, check and replace wipers and wiper fluid to ensure you have a clear field of vision no matter how many insects or how intense the storms you encounter during your summer drive.

10. Replace Cabin Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter makes an air conditioner work overtime to keep you cool and puts undue strain on your car's engine, causing serious damage down the road. A clean air filter helps ease some of the stress on the A/C system and the engine. So, replacing the air filter helps provide a cool and refreshing escape from the burning sun outside.

How Wrench Can Help Keep Your Car In Great Condition

Summer car maintenance is necessary to beat the excesses hot weather can put on your car, yet you don't have to do it alone. We have hundreds of mobile mechanics at Wrench who can help you with your summer car care needs. We come to you and have mobile mechanics available for same-day service, from mobile diagnostics to an oil change, cooling system replacement, wiper replacement, and much more.

Keep Summer Driving Safe And Fun With Wrench

Following basic summer car care tips helps keep your car running smoothly all season long. Yet if you're in need of auto service, Wrench has you covered. So, don't get caught unprepared in hot weather. Book a mechanic and beat the heat with Wrench today.

Part of being a responsible car owner is staying up to date on the maintenance that your vehicle needs to run smoothly and efficiently. That means learning the ins and outs of your particular car so you can keep it in the best condition possible.

Some cars require more frequent maintenance, while others have a longer period in between repairs. This article will cover general car maintenance, as well as the differences between vehicles manufactured in a variety of countries.

To learn more about American, German, Japanese, and European vehicle maintenance, read on!

What is General Car Maintenance?

General car maintenance consists of many small things, but they add up. Taking care of your daily driver should be a priority of yours. Not only does regular car maintenance make your car last longer, but it saves you from costly repairs—or worse, needing to buy a new car.

General car maintenance includes actions such as checking your tires, changing your oil and filter, examining belts, removing battery corrosion, and more! Some are easy enough to accomplish alone, yet some require a professional auto mechanic to get it done right.

When a car is new, it takes about 5,000 miles before you should begin routine maintenance. This first check-up is important because the car parts are "breaking themselves in." For example, the oil pan may release some metal fragments that need to be drained with the oil. It will also be checked to make sure all valves and hoses are not leaking anything straight from the factory.

After the first scheduled maintenance, you can go from 5,000 to 10,000 miles between check-ups. To find out what is best for your car, seeking out the owner's manual for answers is always one of your most valuable resources.

Let's take a look at the nuance between car maintenance for vehicles produced in different regions of the world.

American Car Maintenance

Domestic car maintenance may be some of the easiest and simplest tasks compared to foreign vehicles, but it is just as important! For oil changes, you should follow the standard every-5,000-miles rule.

Tire tread wear is not much different on American cars compared to others because all types of tires are used on all cars. You should stick to getting your tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, but always keep an eye on the tread for major wear. If it is becoming hard to see the tread pattern on any part of the tire, have it double-checked by a mechanic.

If your fuel filter becomes clogged, it will seriously impact the performance of your engine. It is widely disputed how long you should wait between fuel filter replacements, but at the very least, you should consider swapping them out every 30,000 miles. When that time comes around, ask a mechanic to perform a pressure test to make sure.

German Car Maintenance

Your battery is responsible for many, many systems in your vehicle. Luckily for German auto owners, Gel AGM batteries are standard for most German automakers. These particular batteries have a warning system to let you know when they are on their last leg, but it's in your best interest to check it yourself. They are built to last 4-5 years, but corrosion can build up from any number of causes.

Another perk of German cars is the number of useful electronics on board. Your German vehicle likely has over 90 different computers running at once! For this reason, it's helpful to have your electronics and wiring inspected by a professional to diagnose any issues that may complicate your driving experience.

The mileage for oil changes varies by model. You should schedule a basic oil service every 5,000 miles for turbo and supercharged engines like the 1.8T, 2.0T in VW and Audi, and every 7,500 for all other late models.

Japanese Car Maintenance

Japanese vehicles, like any other foreign manufactured cars, share a similar routine of maintenance and upkeep, but there are slight differences. For example, most American vehicles are expected to have regular oil changes at 5,000 miles. However, Honda recommends the oil should be changed every 3,000 or so, depending on driving conditions, slightly more often.

Although this differs between makes, it is slightly more common for Japanese cars to run into belt and hose issues. They degrade at a quicker pace, so you should keep an ear open for funny, cyclical noises from the hood. It's always smart to have a professional take a look regularly as well.

When it comes to tires, most Japanese import cars also have tread wear indicators. If your tire tread is level with the indicator, it's time to call your mechanic for a replacement. This is something that you can do even without an indicator, but Japanese manufacturers have made it that much easier for you!

European Car Maintenance

When it comes to European vehicles, there are a few slight differences in the way you should approach general maintenance. For example, timing belts need to be replaced somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. If you let a timing belt issue run on for too long, you'll be facing some serious repairs.

Most vehicles follow the same standard maintenance calendar of 30/60/90. In other words, you should be doing a full check-up every 30,000 miles. When it comes to European makes, it probably won't need a tune-up for years once it rolls off the assembly line. But once the odometer eclipses 100,000 miles, it's best to start getting tune-ups every 10,000 to 20,000 miles thereafter.

Contact The Pros At Wrench For General Car Maintenance Tips and Check Engine Light Help

General car maintenance is incredibly important. Your vehicle gets you to and from every shift, hobby, and meetup. You should be giving your daily driver all the care it needs. That means putting it in the hands of mechanics you can trust.

Wrench is a full-service auto repair shop without the shop! Our mobile mechanics service all types of cars and trucks, offering everything from oil changes and tune-ups to brake jobs and no-starts. Our certified mechanics can perform most jobs right in your driveway or at your workplace parking spot, giving you the freedom to spend your time on more important things.

To see a full list of Wrench services, click here!

Or, contact Wrench directly by finding your nearest provider on the sidebar of this page.

Domestic, Asian, and European cars dominate the American automotive market. Many people know the names of popular manufacturers among the three, but the differences between the regional designs are often unknown. Nevertheless, the similarities and differences between these huge manufacturers provide a lot of information about what the right car is for you, what to expect for general maintenance, and more.

To follow what is new at Wrench, follow us on  Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Many people can tell the difference between cars based on the vehicle's exterior look, style, and more. In addition, there are often reasons for the differences between cars from various places and extensive pros and cons list for each. Below, defining factors and critical design aspects are explained, as well as a brief history of the automotive industry from each region.

German Cars

The History of German Cars

Germany's history within the automotive industry dates back over 100 years. The first car powered by internal combustion was in 1864 by a German engineer named Siegfried Marcus. The design model is a simple hand cart powered by an internal combustion engine reliant on petrol. Marcus continued to create variations on the model until 1888, when the model began to resemble what we now think of as a car, including a driver's seat, clutch, brake, and steering wheel. However, the first automobile to go into total production was the Benz-Patent Motorwagen in 1885. Early in the company's output, they found it challenging to gain capital from investors. However, one morning in 1888, the inventor's wife took the Benz-patent motorwagen for the first long-distance drive. She drove the vehicle a total of 65 miles (104 km). This was a breakthrough in the automobile industry, proving the valuable and reliable nature of the cars. Since then, German engineers have played an essential role in developing what we know now as cars.

Modern German cars are known for their luxurious look, powerful engines, and precision engineering. German cars are often the most expensive because of the quality and manner of their production.

Luxurious Look

The interior and exterior of German cars are well known and appreciated. Luxury is apparent in German cars, even if the vehicle is not from a luxury line. Leather seats, quality interior design, and top-notch finishes are standard for German vehicles.

Powerful Engines and Precision Engineering

German cars have strong engines that, with the proper maintenance, can remain strong for many years and hundreds of thousands of miles. However, because of German cars' unique and precise engineering, maintenance and repairs can often be more expensive than competitive manufacturers. The intricate design of German cars requires experience and is often more complicated to repair than American and Japanese cars. Even with the difficulty and precision of some maintenance, Wrench has mobile technicians qualified to perform maintenance on German vehicles.

• Luxurious Style
• Powerful Engine
• Precision Engineering
• Expensive Repairs

Japanese Cars

The History of Japanese Cars

In 1902, Komanosuke Uchiyama, at the age of 21, was the first in Japan to create two models of automobiles, one with an engine that was brought by his boss back from the United States. In 1904, the first domestically manufactured bus was created, powered by a steam engine, with a capacity of 10 passengers. Three years later, Komanosuke Uchiyama built the first entirely Japanese-made gasoline engine car. In the last century, Japanese engineers have made huge advancements within the auto industry.

Japanese cars are known for their impressive technology, high reliability, and low malfunction rate. Japanese cars are also known for their low average yearly maintenance costs. The reliability that Japanese vehicles are known for is prominent in both their more cost-effective and luxury lines. Most Japanese car manufacturers have a section that caters specifically to luxury cars.

Impressive Technology

Japanese cars have been trailblazers in the hybrid and electric markets from very early on. These manufacturers have created a unique technology that enables higher fuel efficiency in many of their vehicles.

High Reliability and Low Malfunction Rate

Another unique trait about Japanese cars is their impressive reliability. Many Japanese manufacturers perfect parts and designs before a wide release on the market, lowering the malfunction rate. This enables a much higher reliability rating as design flaws do not reduce it. The low malfunction rate also helps keep the annual maintenance cost lower than that of German cars, which often include more complicated engineering.

Reliability within any car is essential as you can expect your vehicle to perform well consistently. It also lowers the chances of unexpected and costly repairs. Reliability is a necessary factor to consider when evaluating the purpose of a car, whether it is a car to commute to and from work or a vehicle to show off.

• Impressive Technology
• High Reliability
• Low Malfunction Rate

American Cars

The History of American Cars

J. Franks and Charles Duryea, two bicycle mechanics, designed the first successful gasoline automobile in 1893. The two engineers, based in Springfield, Massachusetts, went on to win the first American car race in 1895. In 1896, the sale of the first American-made gasoline car was conducted. In the next decade, 485 companies joined the market. As a result, the automotive industry operated under an unprecedented seller's market, as the demand for luxury consumer goods exceeded the production.

Based on the American production history, that had already been established to produce at a higher volume and lower cost than European goods. By 1913, 485,000 of the 606,124 cars produced were American-made. In addition, new production practices were implemented to enable a much larger, more efficient production that allowed lower costs.

American cars are known for their cost efficiency and affordable repairs and are often bigger-bodied vehicles. The classic image of American cars is often muscle cars, trucks, or larger, less efficient vehicles. There has been a significant change in this concept in recent years, but it is still prominent among American car manufacturers.  

Bigger Style

American cars are designed for broader, straighter roadways than German cars, which is why "muscle cars" are so popular. These cars are wider and heavier, so they handle straight roads better than roads with tight turns. Trucks and larger vehicles are also known to be popular within American production.

Affordable Repairs

With a properly designed American car, the average repair cost is often similar to that of Japanese vehicles, if not less. Although American cars are less reliable, the individual repair costs are often lower for parts and labor due to simple engineering.

• Mass-Produced
• Affordable
• Bigger Body Style
• Cost-Efficient Repairs

Despite the differences in maintenance, style, and design among these three countries, Wrench can service all of the above. With hundreds of highly qualified ASE-certified mobile mechanics across the country, Wrench is ready to handle any maintenance needs.

How to Book with Wrench

No matter what kind of car you have, Wrench has you covered. Booking with Wrench has never been easier with our online booking platform. The link below will lead you to the booking page, where you will be asked to enter your car's VIN, or you can manually enter the year, make and model. At this point, you will have the opportunity to select the services you require. Finally, after some general contact information, you will be asked to choose the time, date, and location for your service. Once all of the information has been entered, all you have to do is sit back and relax. You will not be charged until the service is completed to guarantee customer satisfaction. So get started booking with a Wrench technician today!

Wrench has reached more people with our mobile mechanic services as our markets continue to expand across the States. We ensure car maintenance is less of a headache for the user while also making it easier to book online via our website and app. In addition, Wrench aims to make our platform straightforward and trustworthy by providing a free quote that includes a breakdown of labor and parts and frequently adding new features within our app. Suppose you are curious about trying out service with Wrench. In that case, you can read more about our services through our blogs for additional information and check out our Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn!

Wrench has put a lot of work into guaranteeing a positive experience for you regarding car maintenance. However, it couldn't be possible without our mobile mechanics who constantly adapt to new problems and show exceptional work. For that, we like to showcase our technicians every week to let everyone know the hard work and achievements they demonstrate. We are more than happy to have them on Wrench's team.

This week's spotlight technician is Eric R.

Eric has been with the team for four years and has been involved with cars for a while now. Currently providing services in the Phoenix area, if you or someone you know is in the area, maybe there is a chance to experience having Eric as a technician.

About The Star Himself

Eric found his start within the industry at a young age, working alongside his uncle. He then cultivated his passion for the work in automotive school. To this day, Eric is passionate about a thorough and correct repair, as well as communicating the issue clearly to customers in a way they can understand.

We asked Eric what his first car was, a memorable thing in almost everyone's life. Eric's first car was a 1989 Nissan 240sx. As of now, Eric is more of a Honda person. When it comes to car maintenance, Eric is the guy to ask. Whenever he gets an oil change, he inspects his car and recommends to others that if you want to keep your car for a long time, maintenance is essential.

Customer Testimonials

Eric is well known for his professional manner, extensive knowledge, and unparalleled communication skills. His passion for customer service is apparent in every service he performs. If you don't take our word for it, just read some customer testimonials left for Eric:

"Not only does Eric have a positive attitude and great personality, he knows his mechanics. He instantly replaced my battery, checked all my fluids and tire pressure, and waited to ensure my car was charged. In addition, he went out of his way to make sure my car was safe to drive. He really cares about his customer and gave me the confidence that my car was road ready. I feel so lucky to have found Wrench mobile mechanics, and they are now on my speed dial!" -Lynn D.

"Eric did an awesome job in a timely manner and explained the work that was done, which made it very helpful. He was very professional, and I'll definitely recommend Wrench and Eric to my family and friends if they need any automotive services." -Sammy L.

"Eric did a great job. Very thorough and quick, I was very impressed. He diagnosed my car and got approval from the warranty company before he left. He returned with all the parts the next day, and my car was done quickly. Very friendly guy, I will use the company again if needed, and I will ask for Eric. Awesome job" -Sheri G.

Booking With Wrench

Wrench has focused on making our services more efficient and accessible through our online booking platform. It's as simple as clicking on the free quote button below or going through our app. You must select your service, enter some information, and pick a time and place. It's that easy! Get started today in making your car problems a thing of the past.

We all have experienced the frustration of a vehicle in need of repair yet not having the time to get it into an auto shop. Then only to deal with traditional brick & mortar shops that don’t perform services in a timely fashion or sneak added repair costs onto your bill. However, there is a better way. Learn how to ditch brick & mortar shops and book a mobile mechanic.

What is a Mobile Mechanic?

A mobile mechanic is a mechanic that offers greater convenience by bringing auto repair pros to you, so you do not have to hassle with taking your vehicle to traditional brick & mortar shops.

Technological advancements now make it easier than ever for a mobile mechanic to offer a broad spectrum of auto repair services. Improvements in repair techniques and training also allow for contactless service, making for a safer environment for you, the mobile mechanic, and all those nearby.

Wrench mobile mechanics bring all the tools and parts necessary to complete repairs at a time and place of your choosing while following strict contactless protocols. It’s the fastest, safest, and most reliable auto repair service available today.

Keep reading to learn 4 reasons why a mobile mechanic is better than a brick & mortar shop.

1. Mobile mechanic services fix your car at work OR at home

Mobile mechanics come to your location, whether home or office, anywhere convenient for you. So, a mobile mechanic does away with the headache of finding the time to get your car into brick & mortar shops. Mobile mechanics also remove the worry of having your car towed or hitching a ride while your car is in the shop.

Not only do mobile mechanics come to your location of choice, yet they also work around your schedule. This allows you to save time and get on with your day rather than deal with the annoying disruptions of going to traditional brick & mortar shops. That means no more wasting time drinking bad coffee in a auto shop waiting room.

Instead, you can have your car serviced when and where you want. Wrench mobile mechanics take it a step further, ensuring you get fast and friendly service. In addition, they take the time to go through the process with you step by step. Unlike the typical trip to a traditional mechanic, you’ll know exactly what work is being done, how it’s being completed, and why it is necessary.

2. Mobile mechanics offer a wide variety of services

Modern technology now allows mobile mechanics to offer more services than ever. With a wide variety of services, auto mechanics have made traditional brick & mortar shops almost obsolete. From simple oil changes to water pump replacement, mobile mechanics offer many services you once could only get at traditional shops.

Wrench mobile mechanics deliver an ever-growing list of services, so you can rest assured you are covered no matter the repair or the place. Wrench mobile services include:

Alternator Replacement

Battery Replacement

Brake Caliper Replacement

Brake Pad Replacement

Diagnostic Service

Emissions Failure Repair

Ignition Coil Replacement

Oil and Filter Change

Radiator Replacement

Serpentine Belt Replacement

Spark Plugs Replacement

Starter Replacement

Thermostat Replacement

Timing Belt Replacement

Transmission Fluid Change

Water Pump Replacement

Check Engine Light

Flat Tire Repair

Our mobile repair services don’t end there. We know that helpless feeling of being stranded on the roadside all too well. Therefore, Wrench offers roadside assistance and towing services, so you’ll never be stuck on the side of the road for long.

Searching for a used car? Wrench has you covered for that too. With our Lemon Squad Nationwide Used Car Inspection program, you’ll be confident in your used car purchase. Have a fleet of vehicles in need of maintenance? Wrench’s Fleet Solutions brings the fleet service you need quickly, affordably, and conveniently to your location. So, with all these mobile services available, there simply is no need to hassle with brick & mortar shops.

3. Reduced maintenance costs

One of the biggest reasons a mobile mechanic is the way to go is the overall savings in maintenance costs. Finding the time to get a car in the shop for regular maintenance can be a struggle. It is too easy to skip necessary repairs or services because it’s too much of a headache. Unfortunately, the longer our cars go without proper servicing only increases the chance of breakdowns and even more costly repairs.

So, a mobile mechanic takes that out of the equation and allows you to schedule regular maintenance at your convenience. This lets you stay on a regular maintenance schedule, ensuring your car is always running at optimal performance and saving you unforeseen repair costs.

Wrench mobile mechanics also give you the peace of mind of fixed quotes. We know you don’t want or need any surprises when ordering mobile car repair. So, you pay only for the repairs quoted to you. No more add-on repair costs that frequently appear on your bill from brick & mortar shops.

4. Online booking and instant quotes available

Traditional auto shops can give you the runaround and may not get around to working on your car for days or even weeks after you need it. However, finding and booking a mobile mechanic for a time that best fits your schedule is easy. First, a quick online search gives you mobile mechanic options near you. Then, you book the time and location, and that’s all there is to it.

Mobile mechanic providers such as Wrench make it fast and painless whether booking online or through an easy-to-use app. In addition, Wrench provides you fixed quotes instantly, so you know what to expect and won’t be burdened with additional repair costs you did not authorize.

Where Should I Go To Book Mobile Auto Repair Services

With the versatility of a fully equipped auto repair shop brought right to your door, there is no more need to go through the frustration of taking your car to a traditional auto shop. Instead, mobile mechanics save you time and money while giving you the confidence your car is getting the care it deserves.

For mobile repair service, Wrench is your go-to choice for the best ASE-Certified mobile mechanics, the best range of services, and fast, safe, and convenient mobile auto care you can trust. So, get rid of the hassle of brick & mortar shops and book a mobile mechanic with Wrench today.