How Do I Know If My Car’s Water Pump Needs to Be Replaced?

Master Mechanic Checking Car’s Water Pump

Master Mechanic Checking Car’s Water Pump

Every vehicle must have a properly functioning water pump in order for the engine to operate. The water pump drives coolant through the radiator and sends it circulating through the engine. When it malfunctions, an immediate water pump car repair becomes necessary to get your vehicle back in drivable condition.

The water pump is responsible for maintaining engine and radiator temperatures within the acceptable range. To keep your car in reliable and safe operating condition, you need to take care of any maintenance matters your water pump requires as need arises.

Troubleshooting Your Vehicle’s Water Pump Problem

There are numerous approaches to identifying water pump problems. For example, you may want to listen for unusual sounds coming from the pump, examine the belt and pulley, and check the thermostat. If the water temperature warning light is on, it may indicate that the coolant circulation in your car is insufficient, which may mean you need a water pump replacement. Or, one of a number of other checks may get you closer to discovering a problem with the pump.

Here are some of the most common problems that cause issues with water pumps, to help you in troubleshooting diagnosis of your water pump issue, and in deciding whether you may need automobile water pump repair:

Leaking Coolant

Look for signs of coolant leaking. Check under the front area of your vehicle. Look for any puddling of red, orange, or green fluid. Leaking coolant is often due to issues involving the water pump.

Engine Overheating

The water pump’s purpose is to circulate coolant in the vehicle’s engine block and heads. When a water pump breaks down, it can no longer circulate engine coolant as it’s designed to do. When the coolant is not circulating as necessary to keep the engine cool, the temperature in the engine rises to an extreme degree, and the engine becomes overheated. An overheated engine is an urgent problem, requiring immediate attention to prevent potentially serious engine damage, including burned-up pistons, and split cylinder heads.

Slow Leaks of Coolant

Slow leaks can cause a wet area around the water pump. Check for engine coolant leakage in the area around the pump. Look for rust in the area too. Rust is not uncommon around the water pump when fluid is leaking. Gradual leaks usually don’t cause engine breakdowns very quickly, but they do cause coolant levels to drop. This reduces the amount of lubricant that protects the water pump’s working parts, which are in constant motion while the engine is running, and it promotes wear on the pump.

Steam from Engine

Car’s Water Pump

When your water pump is working properly, your engine will maintain a steady temperature range. If you notice steam coming up from your car hood, this indicates that your engine is extremely overheated due to insufficient coolant circulation and needs emergency attention. Turn off your engine immediately when you see steam coming from the engine. Do not ignore the problem, and don’t try to continue driving the car any farther toward your destination, even if it’s just a short distance. Allowing the vehicle to keep running can cause the need for engine rebuilding or replacement. Driving with an engine that is extremely overheated is also very dangerous.

Loose Water Pump Belt

A number of things can cause a belt to become loose. If your engine is making a loud squeaking noise, this may indicate a loose belt on the pulley that drives the water pump. Check to ensure that the water pump belt fits snugly in its proper position. Have a loose water pump belt adjusted or replaced promptly. Or, if the noise becomes more intense while you’re driving the vehicle, then the water pump may need to be replaced.

Circulation Problem

The vehicle’s water pump is responsible for coolant moving in your engine and radiator. Water pumps and fan belts often function in conjunction with one another, which involves impellers that circulate water through the engine. The main purpose of this system is to control engine temperature and prevent the buildup of excessive heat. Too much heat in the engine can lead to serious issues, including damage to pistons, or a crack in the block and/or heads, throwing a rod because the oil fails, and other extreme consequences to your engine parts.



Ace Auto Repair, West Jordan Utah

We specialize in repairs of all makes and models of cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. Our mechanics are ASE Certified, which means they go through continuous training to stay current with high-tech systems in the latest model vehicles of all types. We offer affordable auto repair services and we provide repair estimates in writing.

Ace is a family-owned and operated business. We take pride in our fast, reliable, friendly, and honest service to our customers throughout the greater Salt Lake area. All our work is guaranteed!

For answers to your questions or to schedule an appointment for a diagnosis and/or repair, call Ace Auto Repair, West Jordan UT at (801) 803-6016, or use our online contact form to request an appointment.

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COVID-19: Ace Auto Repair in West Jordan, Utah is Here for You

Wash Your Hands - Coronavirus Precautions at Ace Auto Repair
Wash Your Hands - Coronavirus Precautions at Ace Auto Repair

In light of the spreading coronavirus, Ace Auto is taking further precautions to protect our clients and the expert team. To avoid any unnecessary risk of exposure to the virus, our team is checked daily for temperature or signs of illness to be sure they are well before they work with customers. Our lobby and entrance is repeatedly cleaned and sanitized and we have integrated additional hand washing and sanitizers.

We understand the importance of keeping your vehicles running smoothly and are extremely diligent in protecting the safety of our customers, and team members. Please reach out to us if you have further questions or needs at this time.

We anticipate continuing this policy as long as needed and are committed to providing a high quality service to all of our customers. We encourage you to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

We appreciate your business and support!

What Causes Transmission Gears to Grind?

A mechanic is holding the steering wheel of a car.
Hand on the gear shifter - What Causes Gears to Grind?

If you’ve ever had grinding gears automatic transmission problem or you’ve experienced manual transmission grinding in 3rd gear, you’re not alone. This is a very common gear issue, but it's important to be educated on the problem to keep your car or truck in the best condition possible. Keep reading to learn more about the grinding gears meaning, including how to fix grinding gears, and who you should contact for top-notch automotive care.

Why Does it Happen?

In simple terms, gears grinding stems from the speed of your wheels and engine not being on the same page. This mismatch in speed can cause a very troubling grinding noise. In order for the next gear to change in your gearbox, the shafts for both input and output should move at the same speed. In modern vehicles, synchro rings help these parts to move at the right speeds, which is why this issue is less common. But in older vehicles or in gearboxes used in American semi-trucks, these rings aren’t utilized. In order to limit grinding gears, semi-truck drivers match the speed by pressing down on the throttle to increase engine revs on downshifts, then waiting for the RPMs to drop when shifting up. This is a very difficult skill to master, but semi-truck drivers do this very well.

Manual Transmissions

Although manual transmission vehicles can be very beneficial, they are less common today than they used to be years ago. Manual transmissions were a hot commodity due to the fact that they typically cost less and allow for a few more miles per gallon. But as the technology and simplicity around automatic vehicles have been on the rise, manual transmissions are far less common.

Due to the design of manual transmissions, the system is more distinct for selecting gear ratios and matching those with the engine and wheels. When you shift into a different gear, the gears are being coupled with the input and output shafts of your transmission, which creates a proper gear ratio adjustment. As the gear shift is made, a collar slides over the end of the gear. When you hear a grinding sound, this happens because that collar that is colliding with the end of the gear is spinning at a slower or faster rate compared to the shaft in your transmission. To limit this grinding sound, a synchronizer ring is used to match these speeds effectively. But if you constantly hear a grinding noise, this could mean that the part isn’t working correctly or that you don’t have enough transmission fluid.

Automatic Transmissions

Automatic transmissions work similarly to manual ones, but the key difference is that the car shifts gears automatically based on preset RPM settings. However, while grinding sounds are more common in manual cars, automatic transmission grinding when shifting can still happen. To limit the automatic transmission problems shifting gears, it’s best to consider the following:

  • That your car has the right level of transmission fluid
  • Your fluid isn’t contaminated
  • You don’t have a cracked or chipped gear>
  • You have enough differential fluid

Transmission/Clutch Repair in West Jordan, Utah

Whether you’re dealing with an automatic transmission not shifting into high gear or any other automotive problem, Ace Auto Repair is here to help! We can diagnose the transmission problem and have it working perfectly in no time! Call us today to work with our fast, friendly, and reliable team!

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5 Signs of Clutch Problems

A mechanic sitting in the back seat of a car wearing brown shoes.
Foot on the gas peddle - 5 Signs of Clutch Problems

Without our vehicles, it would be nearly impossible to go to work, take the kids to school, go to the grocery store, and complete many other important tasks. But even if you own a vehicle, it's vital to make sure it stays in good health. The unfortunate truth is, many things can happen to our precious rides—and knowing how to fix issues might be extremely difficult. One of the leading problems we’ll discuss today involves the clutch of a vehicle. This is a vital component to your car or truck, and knowing when it’s failing and needs to be replaced can go a very long way. In this post, we’ll talk about 5 clutch symptoms that you should pay attention to right away.

The Clutch Has A Soft Feel

One of the leading signs of clutch failure is when it feels soft. When you depress the pedal of the clutch, there should be some resistance felt. Given how the clutch itself is a heavy spinning disc constructed of metal and springs, this shouldn’t be very easy to move. If you press down on the pedal and it is very easy and soft like butter, then that means your clutch could be nearing the end of its days.

Trouble Finding Reverse Gear

When you try to put your car in reverse, the engine power in the crankshaft is sent in the opposite direction of what it’s used to. That leads to the common “clunk” sound and you might also feel a clutch vibration when shifting. This causes a lot of force from the clutch, which might lead to the component breaking down over time. If your car struggles to find the reverse gear, then you’re experiencing one of the more common signs of clutch problems and solutions are very possible.

The Clutch Makes Abnormal Noises

If you hear strange noises when you’re engaging or disengaging your clutch pedal, then this might mean that your clutch is beginning to wear out. More specifically, this is typically due to a worn-out clutch fork. This is a hydraulic or mechanical releasing device that helps the clutch function properly. However, you could be dealing with a clutch fluid evaporate problem if there is no more fluid in the clutch fork. Take your car to an auto shop to help with this issue.

The Clutch Pedal Sticks to the Floor

Another common clutch problem is when the clutch pedal sticks to the floor. This means that you have binding issues with the linkage or release bearing. To help this problem, make sure the springs in the linkage aren’t over-stretched. If they are, they may need an adjustment. Another tip is to check the release bearing and make sure the pedal stop is in the correct place.

Clutch Issues After Cold Weather

A lot of vehicle owners complain that they have issues with their clutch after cold weather. This is because cold weather can cause your system to contract, and extreme contraction can cause your clutch master cylinders to fail. Another issue is freezing fluid. Now you may be wondering, “can clutch fluid freeze?” And that answer is yes, but it's very rare and only happens in very extreme weather or when water gets into the clutch line.

Trusted Automotive Clutch Repair in Utah

Whether you’re dealing with a clutch overheat problem or anything else with your ride, Ace Auto Repair is here to help. Stop searching for “clutch repair shop near me” and pick up the phone and call the most reliable team in the area!

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OEM vs Aftermarket Car Parts: Comparing and Contrasting

Car parts arranged on a gray background for a mechanic or auto repair.
Aftermarket Auto Parts - Ace Auto Repair West Jordan, Utah

Many people depend on their vehicle to get them from place to place such as running errands around town, going to school, and going to work. Like any other machine, a car can have problems from time to time and people might realize that they need to make repairs on their car. When they are told their car needs to be repaired, they might not be prepared for the cost. Maybe they assumed that insurance would cover all of the costs or perhaps that did not think that anything serious was wrong. The cost of these repairs can be difficult for a family to bear. They might be thinking about saving money by putting on aftermarket car parts. It is important for everyone to understand what are aftermarket car parts. People might also be asking are aftermarket car parts as good as OEM? Why not compare and contrast the two options?

The Benefits and Drawbacks of OEM Car Parts: Are OEM Car Parts Better?

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer and people might be wondering where to buy OEM car parts. Typically, a dealership is going to work with OEM parts. These are parts that have been made both by and for the vehicle itself. They are meant to work like the original parts in the vehicle and might let the vehicle function better. Some of the other benefits of working with OEM car parts is that they are easy and simple to choose. Quality is guaranteed since they are made for the vehicle. Finally, most of these parts also come with a warranty on the parts.

On the other hand, OEM parts are also typically more expensive than their aftermarket counterparts. They are typically also more expensive since they have been made directly by the manufacturer and often are brand new.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Aftermarket Parts: Are Aftermarket Car Parts Better?

Some people might elect to take their car to an independent dealer. Here, the dealer will be working with aftermarket parts. These parts are similar; however, they have not been made specifically for the vehicle itself. Therefore, it is important for everyone to know a little bit about aftermarket car parts. Some of the benefits of aftermarket parts is that they typically have a lower cost, thus the name aftermarket. Depending on the purpose of the parts and the vehicle, these parts actually might work a little bit better because of the variety. With more variety, there is more functionality, contributing to a wide range of quality.

Of course, this range also means there is a bit of an unknown factor. They might not work well at all. People can also be overwhelmed by the options and might not know where to start. Finally, these parts rarely come with a warranty. People take on a lot of risk by going with aftermarket car parts.

Making a Decision on OEM vs. Aftermarket Car Parts

When it comes to vehicle repair, trust the professionals to do it right the first time. If your vehicle needs repairs, call Ace Auto Repair or visit our website to learn more! We are proud to provide services on cars, trucks, SUVs, and more in West Jordan and the greater Salt Lake City, UT area. We will keep you informed during the repair process and will be as honest and transparent as possible. Call us today!

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Simple Steps to Save Gas Without Driving Less

Ladies in a Convertable - Gas saving tips from Ace Auto Repair
Saving Gas with Tips from Ace Auto Repair in West Jordan Utah

Many times when someone asks how to save fuel, the first answers they get are suggestions on how to get around without a motor vehicle of their own, such as biking, walking, or using public transportation. While sometimes these suggestions are helpful, other times making these changes are too drastic of a blow on a person's lifestyle. What they really need to know is how to save gas while driving. Fortunately, there are ways that this can be achieved.

Maintaining Your Vehicle Helps Save Gas

If you go to work with a headache or a cold, chances are you'll start feeling drained before the day is done. The same goes for your car. Any vehicle is going to get its best gas mileage if it is working as well as it possibly can. Automakers may advertise excellent gas mileage, but if the vehicle isn't working properly, it will use more gas just to function.

Pay attention to things like the check engine light, and make sure that the tires are staying properly inflated. Don't seek to own a vehicle with a more powerful engine than you really need. In addition to reducing fuel economy, ignoring problems also increases emissions that at harmful to the environment. Not keeping up with basic maintenance may also lead to greater repair costs in the long run.

Drive Conservatively and Save Gas

If you're a "crazy driver" don't be surprised to see crazy bills at the pump. Aggressive driving has been known to lower fuel efficiency by close to a third.

Watch Your Speed

Driving the speed limit is actually a practice that can save fuel, as fuel economy starts to dwindle past 50 mph. Too much braking and sudden acceleration can be hard on efficiency as well, as it can burn as much as a half-gallon of fuel in a single hour.

Time Your Drive

One of the biggest waves to save fuel is to make sure that when you are driving, you are moving as much as possible. That means limiting the amount of time you leave your car idling. The Department of Energy suggests not having your vehicle in the park for more than 10 seconds, if possible.

The more fully you have to start and stop at traffic lights, the more fuel you will use, and the harder you will be on your car. Coasting to slow speed before braking will make things easier. When roads are good, cruise control can be a helpful fuel-saving tool, although it is not a good option for slippery roads.

Watch the Air

Climbing into a nice cool car on a hot day might feel good, but if you are looking to save gas money, too much air conditioning isn't necessarily the best way to go. Cooling the car by opening windows is a more fuel-efficient alternative.

There are a lot of vehicles on the market that are designed for great fuel efficiency, but how your drive and take care of your vehicle are just as important as choosing the best vehicle you can. For most people, it's all they can do to do the best they can with what they've got.

At Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah, our team can help make sure your vehicle is working at its best. To learn more, contact us at 801-803-6016, or visit us online at AceAutoUtah.com.

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9 Common Steering Problems and Their Fixes

Man Driving a Car
Steering Wheel

While steering problems can give you a headache, it is important to know the root of your problem. Your steering problems could be due to suspension system issues, bad tires, or other issues that have nothing to do with your steering system. But it could be the steering system, which is why it is so important to correctly diagnose the problem. It is important to fix steering issues as quickly as possible because driving with these problems can lead to an accident or an injury. If you live in Utah, visit Ace Auto in West Jordan and receive affordable service from experienced mechanics.

Here are some of the most common power steering problems symptoms you may encounter:

  1. Power Steering Fluid is Low: Like any other fluid in your car, you have to make sure your power steering fluid is at the appropriate level. This ensures your car runs perfectly. If it gets hard to steer your car, make sure to check your power steering level first. Power steering problems often start with the fluid.
  2. Power Steering Leak: If you have low power steering fluid, there could be a leak. Check under your car for a puddle; power steering fluid is generally clear, red or pink. If you notice a puddle in one of these colors, check the power steering fluid level. Also, check for power steering fluid foaming.
  3. Damaged Steering Rack Mount: If you are noticing that your steering wheel is beginning to feel uncontrollable, it could be a damaged steering rack mount. This problem can be fixed on your own, but if you’re not sure how to fix electric power steering problems, take it to a certified mechanic.
  4. Damaged Power Steering Belt: If your power steering belt becomes slack or worn out, your steering wheel will begin to feel heavy or seem to jerk. This issue can be fixed by tightening the belt or replacing it.
  5. Bad Strut Bearings: If you have found that your steering wheel is beginning to stray as you drive, it could be the strut bearings or the tie rods. This is often due to a broken steering rack and should be fixed by a professional. You may even notice noise when turning steering wheel.
  6. Hard to Steer: If you find the steering wheel is hard to turn, and you are having to exert a lot of strength to turn your car’s steering wheel, it could be that you have low tire pressure, the power steering could be inoperative, or there may be problems in the steering system itself. If you’ve been in an accident, your car’s frame could be bent which could make the car hard to steer. But first, make sure to check your tire pressure first. Power steering problems hard to turn make it tough to drive.
  7. Excessive Play in Steering: If you notice a lot of extra movement in your steering wheel, steering wheel slipping, or steering wheel vibration, it can make it hard to control your car. This may be due to looseness in your steering gear, the steering linkage, or the wheel bearing.
  8. Steering is Drifting: If your car is starting to drift from one side of the road to the other, it could be because your tires don’t have the right pressure or they are mismatched. If your gears aren’t lubricated correctly, your steering gear is too loose, or you are facing suspension issues, these can all lead to the car wandering.
  9. Vehicle is Pulling: If your vehicle is always pulling to one side when you’re driving, it is often due to uneven tire pressure. It could also simply mean your car is out of alignment. If may even seem that your steering wheel off center.

Visit Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah for Fast, Friendly, and Professional Service

No matter what the cause or signs of steering problems, whether it is power steering problems or electric power steering problems, it is essential that you take your vehicle to a certified, experienced mechanic to fix the issue. Driving a car with power steering issues could lead to accident or injury. Give Utah’s trusted mechanics at Ace Auto a call today at 801-803-6016 to schedule an appointment and get a free repair quote!

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The Importance of Oil Changes

Two mechanics working on the engine of an automobile.
Checking the Oil - Ace Auto Repair Utah

The oil in your vehicle's engine lubricates the moving parts keeping your car or truck running at its best and preventing costly repairs. But when oil reduces in volume from use and starts to break down, the engine's components can be damaged. Over time oil becomes polluted with contaminates like dust, dirt, debris and other particulates can cause a build-up of harmful sludge. Old oil will also build-up in filters and vents that can result in issues with the air flow to the engine.

One of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is to have your oil changed regularly. As a general rule of thumb, car care experts recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles. But with technology improvements, newer vehicles might only require an oil change between 5,000 to 10,000 miles, check your owner's manual for your car's manufacturer's recommendations. Whether you have a new or old car, the importance of oil changes cannot be understated.

 If you are unsure about your car's recommended oil change schedule, the certified mechanics at Ace Auto Repair in West Jordan, Utah can help. Give us a call at 801-447-1693 for an affordable, professional oil change with fast, friendly service.

Maintaining Proper Engine Lubrication

While you're driving the moving parts of your car's engine, like pistons and valves, move at high rates of speed. Oil helps keep the heat created by these components down and prevents wear. When the oil is low or too old, these moving parts are not properly lubricated and will create more heat with friction and over-heat the engine. The benefits of properly maintaining engine lubrication with regular oil changes include:

  • Improved Gas Mileage - New, clean oil from routine oil changes can improve gas mileage by 1-2% over time. But not enough oil, old oil or the wrong kind of oil will lead to an increase in your vehicle's fuel consumption and end up costing you more at the pump.
  • Prevents Contaminants and Sludge - Particulates like dust, dirt and debris can decrease the life span of your vehicle by causing corrosion and harmful scarring to the engine. For optimal vehicle performance, a clean engine is key and routine oil and filter changes maintain a clean engine.
  • Helps Avoid Costly Repairs - Routine maintenance, including regular oil and filter changes, helps avoid costly repairs. An engine that is not properly lubricated forces the moving components to work too hard and will end up causing problems in the future. Average yearly oil changes = approximately $120 and the cost of not maintaining your vehicle's engine = approximately $4,000.
  • Increases Resale Value - By increasing your vehicle's life span, you increase the resale value. The value of a well-maintained car or truck, whose owner followed the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, increases at the time of resale According to Kelley Blue Book.

Whether you take your vehicle to a dealership or a local, trusted mechanic for an oil change, it is important to follow the manufacturer oil change recommendations to ensure your factory warranty coverage remains valid. Regular maintenance services are easy to keep up with compared to the costly repairs you may face if without it.

Fast, Affordable Oil Change in the Salt Lake City Area

Get better gas mileage and ensure your vehicle's engine is protected with an affordable and convenient oil change by an experienced technician. To save time and money, make an online appointment with Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah or give us a call at 801-447-1693 for an immediate service or repair quote. We are proud to offer Salt Lake City area residents complete auto repair and maintenance services.

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What is Factory Scheduled Maintenance and Why it is Important for Your Vehicle?

Auto Technician in a Garage
Happy Auto Technician - Ace Auto Repair West Jordan Utah

You probably know that you should change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles, but do you know how often you should check the power steering fluid or the chassis lubrication? If you are unsure, review your car's owner manual to find the factory maintenance schedule recommended for your specific vehicle by the manufacturer. So, what is factory scheduled maintenance and why is it important for your vehicle?

Your vehicle's factory scheduled maintenance is a reminder to have your vehicle serviced every 3 months or 3,000 miles for preventative maintenance throughout the year. These manufacturers recommendations will keep your car running smoothly, help prevent costly repairs and ensure your manufacturer’s warranty remains valid.

Whether you take your car to the dealership or your local mechanic for scheduled maintenance, it is important to stick with the factory recommendations to make sure that coverage is valid throughout the duration of your factory warranty. Services like rotating tires, flushing the brakes and changing fluids, filters and spark plugs are all easy to keep up with compared to the potential repairs you may face if without regular maintenance.

 If you have questions about your car's recommended factory maintenance, the helpful, certified mechanics at Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah can let you know what is due (or overdue) for maintenance and perform the services to prevent costly problems to keep you on the road in a safe vehicle.

Factory Scheduled Maintenance in Your Vehicles Owner's Manual

You will find two different maintenance schedules in your owner’s manual, one labeled 'regular' and the other 'severe'. While you may not put a lot of miles on your car driving to and from work or getting the kids to school, soccer practice or piano lessons - you will want to consider the following strenuous conditions that can bump your service schedule up to 'severe':

  • Extreme Weather
  • Frequent, Short Commutes
  • Stop and Go Traffic
  • Idling
  • Heavy Loads
  • Rough Roads
  • Mountainous Roads
  • Salty or Dusty Conditions

If have an older vehicle that did not come with a manual, the Car Care Council, a non-profit organization for vehicle owners, offers a free customizable vehicle maintenance schedule to help you keep track of the dates and mileage for services performed.

Basic Car Maintenance Schedule by Month/Mileage

Every 3 Months/3,000 Miles

Every 6 Months/6,000 Miles

    • Automatic Transmission Fluid
    • Automatic Transmission Fluid
    • Battery and Cables
    • Battery and Cables
    • Belts
    • Belts
    • Engine Oil and Filter
    • Chassis Lubrication
    • Exhaust
    • Engine Air Filter
    • Fuel Filter
    • Engine Oil and Filter
    • Hoses
    • Exhaust
    • Lights
    • Fuel Filter
    • Power Steering Fluid
    • Hoses
    • Tire Condition (inflation & tread)
    • Power Steering Fluid
    • Windshield Washer Fluid
    • Tire Condition (inflation & tread)

 

    • Windshield Washer Fluid

 

    • Windshield Wiper Blades

 

Every 9 Months/9,000 Miles

Every 6 Months/6,000 Miles

    • Automatic Transmission Fluid
    • Automatic Transmission Fluid
    • Battery and Cables
    • Battery and Cables
    • Belts
    • Belts
    • Engine Air Filter
    • Brakes
    • Engine Oil and Filter
    • Cabin Air Filter
    • Exhaust
    • Engine Air Filter
    • Fuel Filter
    • Engine Oil and Filter
    • Hoses
    • Exhaust
    • Lights
    • Fuel Filter
    • Power Steering Fluid
    • Hoses

Tire Condition (inflation & tread)

    • Lights
    • Windshield Washer Fluid
    • Power Steering Fluid

 

    • Tire Condition (inflation & tread)

 

    • Windshield Washer Fluid

 

It is important to keep records of your vehicle's maintenance in case you need to use your manufacturer’s warranty. By logging all completed services, service dates and mileage at the time of service, you can help your mechanic understand what needs to be done to keep your car safe.

Professional, Friendly Service at Ace Auto to Keep Your Factory Scheduled Maintenance Up to Date in West Jordan Utah  

For your vehicle's regularly scheduled factory recommended maintenance, call Ace Auto at 801-447-1693. Our friendly, experienced technicians will make sure your car is safe and in good repair to prevent time-consuming, costly problems in the future.

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Top 3 Reasons Why Your Car AC is Not Blowing Cold Air

Top 3 reasons why your AC is not blowing cold according to mechanics.
Auto AC Repair - ac not blowing air

During the hot summer months in Utah you want your vehicle's AC to blow cool refreshing air for your comfort and the comfort of your passengers. There are a variety of reasons why your car AC is not blowing cold air. Fixing the AC could be as simple as recharging your car's AC refrigerant or repairing a refrigerant leak but may also require complex electrical climate control repair or slipping compressor clutch to get your air conditioning operating at top performance once again.

Understanding Your Vehicle's AC System

The air conditioning system in your vehicle can be complex due to the location of the hoses and lines. Essentially, your vehicle's AC system compresses and heats the refrigerant, then allowing it to decompress and condense into a liquid that causes it to rapidly lose heat. This process absorbs heat from the car's cabin and is continuously repeated to achieve your desired temperature.

The basic concept is much easier to understand when the components are broken down, as follows:

  • The compressor runs off an engine belt that squeezes or compresses the gaseous refrigerant.
  • Once it has been pressurized, the condenser cools it down through a series of finned tubes where it returns to a liquid state. This liquid will then pass through a dryer or receiver that removes excess water to eliminate the risk of ice crystal formations inside the AC system.
  • Next the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator via a thermal expansion valve where it is then exposed to heat from the vehicle's cabin. At this point the fluid boils, reducing it to a gas form once again. During this process the heat from the surrounding air is absorbed causing the evaporator coil to chill. Finally, it is redistributed throughout the cabin by the blowing fan through the vents as cool, crisp air-conditioned air.

Just about every car has the same basic AC parts consisting of a compressor, condenser and evaporator that work together to keep you cool during the warm summer months. When any of these parts fail, you're left with uncomfortable heat that a rolled-down window just can't fix.

Here are the top 3 reasons why your car AC may not be blowing cold air:

#1 Your Car's AC Needs a Recharge

The most common cause of a vehicle's air conditioner not getting cold enough is that it needs to be recharged. You can recharge your refrigerant by yourself, but to save time and make sure the job is done correctly you should make an appointment with your local professional auto shop.

The trusted professionals at Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah can help you recharge your car's AC system. Give us a call at 801-447-1693 for a free quote to get you back on the road with the comfort and safety with a recharged AC blowing crisp, cool air again.

#2 An AC System Refrigerant Leak

When your vehicle's AC system develops a refrigerant fluid leak it can be challenging to detect due to the fact that refrigerant fluid instantly evaporates when it comes in contact with air. A professional mechanic uses specialized tools to determine if there is a leak by introducing ultraviolet fluid to show signs of low refrigerant pressure in the AC system. Signs of an AC system refrigerant leak:

  • Audible click when the AC is turned on.
  • AC cycles on and off frequently.
  • Hissing sounds from the AC system (when the engine is off).
  • Oil residue around AC pipe fittings and hoses.

A refrigerant leak repair may include repairing or replacing the specific failing component. If a large amount of fluid has been lost, your AC system will need to be flushed and the refrigerant fluid will need to be replaced to function properly and get the cool air flowing. *Please note that refrigerant is a very harmful toxic chemical and should not be handled without the proper equipment operated by a trained professional.

#3 Fan Motor Failure

Another common source of trouble in your car's AC system might be the fan(s) motor located at the front of the vehicle's motor. Whether your car has one or two fans, it is important that the fan is in good working order to both keep you cool and to provide vital cooling to your engine.

If you are unsure about the correct diagnosis of your car's failing air conditioner, the friendly and caring certified mechanics at Ace Auto in West Jordan, Utah will give you a free repair quote and work quickly to fix your AC and get you back out on the road.

Professional Help from Ace Auto to Keep You and Your Passengers Comfortable with Cool Air

If your car ac unit is not blowing cold enough air in Utah , contact the ASE certified auto mechanics at Ace Auto in West Jordan Utah to quickly inspect and repair your AC unit. For an honest AC diagnosis and speedy repairs in West Jordan, schedule an AC repair appointment at Ace Auto or call 801-447-1693 for a FREE repair quote. Our ASE Certified master mechanics are experienced technicians that are certified and can repair any AC system problem and have your AC working properly again.

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