Doral Auto Repair

How does a car thermostat work? The thermostat in your car is actually an important component of your car's cooling system. Basically, its job is to regulate how much coolant is circulated back into your engine and how much is refrigerated through the radiator before being returned to the engine. The temperature of the engine and your battery are regulated by this thermostat. Once you start a cold engine, a valve (thermostatic valve) is opened, permitting the coolant around the engine to regulate the correct working temperature. It uses a wire that senses the temperature of the fuel and opens a sensor to allow only the specified amount of heat to be conducted through to the block. As the engine cools while running the temperature of the fuel decreases, and the sensor detects this change and opens a metal channel to allow the heat to flow through to the block. As the temperature of the fuel continues to decrease the channel is forced open slightly as more heat is allowed to flow th ... read more

If you're like most drivers, you probably don't think much about your brake pads. After all, your vehicle gets you where you're going and stops when you need it to, so worrying about your brakes is probably not at the top of your list. But, worry aside, knowing how often your brake pads should be replaced can save you money in the long run. Cause and Effect When you apply the brake pedal, the brake pads contract against the brake rotors with a high degree of heat and force. That causes high-intensity friction, and the brake pads absorb a great amount of the force, which brings the vehicle to a complete stop. When this is continually repeated, the brake pads eventually wear down to an insufficient level. Think of brake pads like the soles of your shoes. Over time, the soles get worn down so low that buying a new pair of shoes becomes necessary. Warning Signs A brake inspection should occur every 12,000 miles. That is the most proactive way to ensure that your brake pads ... read more

CV (Constant Velocity) joints connect the axles of front-wheel-drive cars to the wheels. The joints allow the wheels and axle to flex as you drive to account for uneven surfaces, turns, etc. The CV joint is the weakest point in this system, and that's why it needs proper care: lubrication and protection from rocks, dust, dirt, etc. If the CV joint gets damaged, contamination will take place, and the lubricant will leak out. The Constant Velocity is sealed by a boot. This boot may get damaged, and when this happens, the joint will wear out and eventually fail. If you drive a car with a damaged CV, the joint will disintegrate further, making driving impossible. You'll not be able to control the vehicle and may get involved in an accident. In short, it is advisable never to drive a vehicle if its CV joint is damaged. If your CV joint is damaged, let a mechanic repair it for you before it's too late. But how will you know that your CV joint needs repair? Look out for the fol ... read more

Your car battery plays a crucial role in providing a power source to the ignition system and keeping your car running. As a rule of thumb, you should replace it every four to five years. However, a car battery life widely varies mostly based on how and where you drive and the state of your charging system. Besides changing your vehicle's oil and filters, maintaining your battery in its best condition enhances your car's performance and smooth running. Unfortunately, just like any other component, your battery is subject to wear with everyday use-even under the best care. Consequently, it loses its capacity to hold a charge, making it weak to start your car. Start paying attention to your vehicle's performance, especially when the battery hits the third year. That said, you can test your battery health condition at least twice a year using a digital voltmeter. A voltage reading below 12.29 volts is an indication that your battery is not fully charged, while an overcharged b ... read more

While you're driving home from work, you're getting ready to park your car. As you put the car in reverse, a jerking sound is made with shifting gears. The sound and jerk last a few seconds, but you're able to park the car without any other issues, hoping your transmission is not blown. What are some signs to look for that your transmission needs to be worked on immediately? 1. Your Transmission Has Challenges Shifting Gears - if you notice when you're driving that your gears move from reverse to neutral, then it's time to take your car in for repairs. Another sign is your car is not accelerating fast enough or struggling. Also observe rough transitions when switching gears, it could be a problem for your transmission. Observe any delays between shifting gears, where the connection is slow, or there's a long pause. This is an issue that cannot be ignored. 2. Transmission Fluid is Leaking - If you see a ... read more