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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a pothole damaged my car?
Ask yourself: Is your car pulling either to the right or left while driving on a straightaway? Are you experiencing difficulty with steering the vehicle? Are your tires wearing unevenly or prematurely? Do any of your wheels have a dent? Do you have to air-up one or two of your tires frequently? If you answer yes to any of the above, then it’s possible that pothole caused some form of damage.
Why fill tires with nitrogen instead of air?
By reducing the percentage of oxygen, water vapor and other gases in your tires from 22% to 7% or lower, your tires will maintain proper pressure longer than if you use “plain old air.” For example, with 95% nitrogen in your tires, they retain optimal pressure three to four times longer.
Carbon buildup on valves - What is it & how do I clean it?
Carbon build-up is a common issue with direct-injected engines like those in modern BMW and Audi models that is an accumulation of carbon deposits on the engine cylinders’ intake valves. A carbon clean method called “walnut shell blasting” is used to safely and effectively clean carbon build-up.
What is an extended warranty & should I get one?
Nobody likes unexpected expenses for auto repairs, if you want peace of mind and like to save money, an extended warranty is a great way to accomplish both. An extended warranty is essentially a service contract between the car owner and the warranty company. According to this contract, the warranty company will pay for the covered repairs for a specific period of time. An extended warranty can help you protect yourself from unexpected repair costs.
What is the difference between Mustang Dynos vs. Dynojet Dynos?
Simply put, Dynojet numbers are usually inflated and Mustang numbers are closer to “true” horsepower numbers. Mustang dyno numbers are more accurate because it takes in to account the variables for each different car. A dynojet just measures how fast the car spins a large drum that is a certain weight and calculates HP from that. A Mustang dyno could be higher than a dynojet, but that is rare.
Why is my low coolant warning light coming on?
Your car has a floating-level which rises and falls with the coolant level in your radiator. As the level falls below a critical amount of coolant in the radiator or expansion tank, required to keep the engine from overheating, the system triggers a warning to alert you. A lot of the time, the coolant level is low because of a leak somewhere.
How long should it take for my car to cool down?
If your car is parked under the sun all day, the temperatures are most likely well over a 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Presuming your car’s A/C is working properly, it should take around 5 to 10 minutes before you can start feeling comfortable. Read more below to find out the quickest way to cool down your car’s interior.
What are the benefits of frequent oil changes?
Simply put, frequent and routine oil services for your European car are one of the most inexpensive ways to ensure that your investment has a long-living power plant under the hood. Never skip an oil change!
When should I get my oil changed?
Proactive maintenance = a healthy car!
At AUTOSCOPE, one of our core beliefs is that being proactive towards car repair and service prevents break downs and helps to reduce unexpected repair costs. By performing proactive maintenance and inspecting the vital systems on your car regularly, this will show those early warning signs that a trained professional sees on a daily basis, and can spot very quickly on a routine check.
Helpful Foreign Car Owner Articles
Why Does Your Porsche Need an Alignment?
Your Porsche needs a wheel alignment for the same reasons that any vehicle needs an alignment. Tires will eventually come out of sync on any vehicle and need to be kept in line in order to keep the vehicle and its wheels in good condition, and safe. Here’s what you...
How to Repair a Mini Cooper’s Slipping Transmission
There are a few potential reasons that your Mini Cooper’s transmission might be slipping. Whatever the reason, it is important to get this problem solved right away. Not all transmission problems will require a replacement, but the longer you leave the issue the more...
Does Oil Change Frequency Matter to Your Land Rover?
Is all of the advice over changing your Land Rover’s oil on asset schedule real? That is, is it important to change your oil exactly when your manual says, or will your Land Rover be just fine if you push the deadline a little bit? The truth is, while you can delay an...
7 Reasons Your European Auto has High Oil Pressure
Whether it’s a Porsche or a Landrover, when your European auto has high oil pressure you should act quickly to get to the bottom of the issue. High oil pressure can be the result of another problem with your vehicle, from a blockage to a dirty filter. If left...
What to Do if Your Audi’s Head Gasket is Leaking
Head gasket problems are common in some Audis. If your Audi’s head gasket is leaking, then you should get it looked at right away. A blown head gasket is a very expensive repair, so it’s much better to fix your head gasket before the problem gets worse. Certain Audis...
How Regular Vehicle Maintenance Saves You Money
We know that it can be hard to schedule your vehicle maintenance. When life is busy, getting a check-up for your car can seem like something you can delay without much consequence. However, avoiding your mechanic’s shop for the little things can end up costing you a...
Common Manual Transmission Issues
A manual vehicle gives you a unique driving experience, more control and (many people feel) more joy when you’re behind the wheel. However, manual transmission vehicles can also develop their own unique issues. If you own a vehicle with a manual transmission, it makes...
5 Signs It’s Time for Your BMW’s Transmission Service
Keeping your BMW’s transmission in good working order is important to keep your vehicle operating at peak performance. Hard breaking, tough turns, and bad weather conditions will all slowly affect your BMW’s transmission. Eventually, it will need service in order to...
What are the Signs of a Bad EGR Valve in Your BMW
Is your BMW equipped with an engine gas recirculation (EGR) valve? These valves are useful additions to vehicles to help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, specifically nitrogen emissions. They also help to cool part of the engine. However, many BMW owners find that...