Timing Chain

All engines have either a timing belt or a timing chain to synchronize the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.  This keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently.  If the timing is off, it may not run at all.  Timing belts need to be replaced on a schedule.  A broken or slipping…

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Transmission

Let’s talk about your transmission. Transmissions are heavy duty pieces of equipment that are designed to last a long time for most drivers. But like any other machine, they’ll eventually wear out and need repair. So let’s focus on what you can do to push that day off as far as possible. The first thing you…

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Finding Vehicle Recall Information

No matter how well they’re made, vehicles will have design or manufacturing problems.  And when the government thinks a problem is really serious, they require the manufacturer to issue a recall notice and fix the car free of charge.  The manufacturer then tries to contact everyone who owns that type of car to get the…

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MAF Sensor and Engine Air Filter

Today’s post focuses on the importance of protecting your mass air flow sensor or MAF. Air and fuel are mixed together to be burned in your engine. The amount is controlled by how hard you press on the accelerator or by external factors like climbing hills or hauling loads. Based on how much air you…

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How Do I Know I Need Brakes?

What are the signs that you need a brake job? Signs of brake problems often fall into one of two categories: making noise or a pulsation in the brake pedal.  Let’s start with the noise. Most brake pads have an audible brake wear indicator.  This is a small piece of metal that rubs on your…

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Deep Breathing: Engine Air Filter

Your vehicle’s engine really needs clean air to operate efficiently.  It takes about 12,000 liters of air to burn a liter of gas in your vehicle engine. And all drivers know that clean air is much better than dirty. When your engine air filter gets dirty, it simply can’t trap any more dirt, so the dirt just passes…

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Trust Your Vehicle To Us

Your vehicle is much more than a transportation appliance. It gets you to work, takes care of errands, goes on dates and vacations. You could say it’s part of the family or even a business partner. You rely on your vehicle for so much. At Douglas Automotive, we understand how important your car or truck…

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Have You Checked Your Cabin Air Filter Lately?

While in for a routine oil change, this customer asked if we could check into why there was no heat coming out of the passenger side vent.   Part of every oil change at Douglas Automotive Repair includes a check for basic maintenance items.  Once we pulled the filter from behind the glove box, we found…

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5 Reasons to Keep Your Car Well-Maintained

Thanks for visiting the Douglas Automotive Repair auto care blog. Today’s post lists 5 important reasons Plainfield drivers should follow recommended maintenance schedules. 1. Be SafeA well-maintained car doesn’t put you and your passengers at unnecessary risk. Think brakes, headlamps, tires. 2. Get Better Fuel EconomyRegular maintenance is an investment in optimum fuel economy. Inadequate…

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Smart Car Care: Debunking The Maintenance Free Myth

Myths start with a grain of evidence and are then built up and circulated around with a lot of imagination and very elastic logic. And the internet is a breeding ground for automotive myths. Some car bloggers recall the vehicles of yesteryear and declare their modern decedents to be virtually maintenance free and that anyone who…

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