3 Reasons to Make the Leap and Buy That Porsche

| May 22, 2018
porsche 911

porsche 911

For some people, driving a car is so much more than just “driving a car.” This giant chunk of metal that helps you get around isn’t just transportation for car aficionados. It’s an experience. The feeling of the machine making its way through the street. The roaring of the engine, tight grip of the curves and what you feel under your foot as you press the gas petal. This is what makes driving a luxury sports car a worthwhile thrill that so many seek.

One thing that keeps even the biggest car lovers away from these quality automobiles is the price tag. Not just the price to purchase the car, but the maintenance and parts costs to keep it running at peak conditions.

If that’s what’s been holding you back from buying that Porsche you’ve been thinking about for years, we’re here to tell you there is a way to finally get into the car of your dreams.

Here are 3 reasons to choose a European Auto Repair Service Center to maintain your vehicle.

Leave the Pushy Upsells Behind

The great things about a certified repair shop is that they can do everything the dealership can. Availability of manufacturer repair information via the Web makes access to the most up to date information available to all. Unlike years ago, that means you can get the same services and the right diagnostics even if you don’t go to the dealer for work. A smaller repair shop also has the added benefit of service-focused culture. Not one driven by salesmen tasked with running around to make upsells or nag while you’re waiting on your car to be serviced. Speaking of, scheduling a time to bring your car in to a busy dealer can be tricky. They are marginally busier and fitting you in is much harder and less convenient.

Reasonable Pricing Using OEM Parts

A certified repair shop is also a great option for more reasonable pricing. Not because the work is sub-par but because dealerships have much larger overhead to justify their hiked pricing structure. The hourly rate savings can add up to great discounts on overall costs for maintenance that have kept you from opting for a Porsche. The best part is you don’t have to sacrifice quality of the repair either. Since OEM parts are being used, you can be assured that your Porsche is always performing the way it did when it left the production facility.

Concierge Service

Let’s be real, a small part of the reason you may want to own a luxury sports car is for the status – and rightfully so. The large investment in a time-tested, road legal race car deserves some valor. Concierge services allow you to continue receiving that value beyond the purchase of your car.

Bay Diagnostics, servicing the Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY area believes in this luxury, one of a kind experience for European car owners and offers concierge services as a courtesy for clients.  No leaving the office or waiting at a shop for your car to be serviced. We’ll pick it up, get the job done and return it to you ready to go.

Contact Bay Diagnostics

Give Your Car the Love it Deserves, Choose a BMW Certified Repair Shop

| May 1, 2018
Blue BMW car

Blue BMW car

Driving a BMW comes with a certain feeling of confidence that only the automobile’s owner truly understands. It’s a unique bond. Not only do you feel the difference when you drive it, but knowing you have a quality-built car based on years of German automotive ingenuity, makes enjoying each experience in your Bimmer all the more worthwhile.

Your Car Deserves the Best

As any loyal BMW owner would attest, having your car perform optimally at all times is part of the expectation you have with a luxury car in this class.  After all, the BMW slogan does state, it’s the, “Ultimate Driving Machine” and the numbers don’t lie. Since 1916, BMW has remained a top-selling vehicle in the automotive industry. In addition to looking great, the car also holds its value and has become a standard in sophistication.

Would you treat ultimate luxury in any way other than the best?

You know the pretty price tag you paid to enjoy all the perks included with this amazing vehicle, so leaving it in the hands of just any mechanic isn’t really an option.

A BMW certified repair shop works to manufacturer specifications. That means you don’t have to put performance or safety at risk.

Trust a BMW Certified Repair Center

Trust trained technicians with in-depth knowledge and expertise in the mechanics of your car.

Using the latest diagnostic equipment means you’ll get your vehicle back quickly so you can continue to enjoy it and for less out of pocket than the dealership!

BMW car interior

As the owner of a European luxury vehicle, you must know how important maintenance is to prevent expensive breakdowns and to keep your car running like the dream.

With a BMW Certified Repair Center you can take your BMW for repairs as well as preventive and regular maintenance instead of trying to coordinate a time with the already busy dealerships schedule. A local shop will have you in and out and deliver the personalized care you deserve.

Count on Bay Diagnostics

Trusting your BMW to just anyone is a risk not worth taking. But you don’t have to break the bank either. You can count on Bay Diagnostic for first-class service at affordable prices.

If you’re looking for first-class European car repair in the Brooklyn area, contact Bay Diagnostic today.

Comparison: Auto Repair Shops Beat Dealerships for Service Needs

| April 2, 2018
BMW car repair service

BMW car repair service

Bringing a car in to be serviced is something we all experience as vehicle owners. From oil changes, to tire rotations and tune-ups – service and repair are inevitable and important. Ignoring maintenance schedules or that strange sound coming from under the hood after your car’s been running is downright dangerous for any type of vehicle.

Maybe you’re hesitant because you’ve heard horror stories about the large financial expenses others have paid or, you simply don’t have the time in your busy day to spend waiting at a shop. You’re not wrong to worry. Who you choose to trust and pay to get the job done right is an important factor to consider.  Especially with your European vehicle that as you know, requires specialized care.

The debate over choosing a small, independent repair shop over a dealership is an ancient one. The truth is, choosing the right shop to have vehicle services done doesn’t have to be tricky or scary.

Here is a look at why smaller auto repair shops are a better choice over dealerships when it comes to repair and service needs.

Better Cost

Dealerships charge more per hour because of larger overhead costs and expenses that are passed down to you. Why pay for those extras when an independent repair shop can do the work at a more reasonable rate? Studies have shown dealerships charge a greater amount  for the same repairs when compared to independent repair shops. Even when it comes to the cost of parts, remember that dealerships are only going to offer OEM parts, which can be costly even after their ‘dealer’ rates. With a smaller repair shop you’ll have the choice to select alternative options such a rebuilds that work just as good for a fraction of the price.

Better Equipped

Thanks to computers and the Internet, today’s smaller repair shops are not only as equipped to service cars, but they are also just as up-to-date with repair information coming straight from manufacturers.

Add to this the fact that most repair shops have car enthusiasts with years of experience working on specific models of cars, and you’ll be less likely to spend your valuable time trying to figure out a problem. This is especially true if your vehicle is an older model as many dealerships have techs trained only to repair the latest models. Working with an independent shop you may even find less haggling or time spent trying to upsell other services. Finding an honest mechanic shop who is certified, knowledgeable and willing to work with you can make car care a breeze.

Better Care

The best part about using a smaller repair shop versus a large dealership is the level of care and personalization you’ll receive each time your car needs a service. You’ll likely shake hands with the owner, bond over the affection you both share for your car, talk about what’s happening with it and maybe even get a firsthand view of the work as its being done. This is in comparison to just getting your car back washed and with no real explanation of what’s been done.

Since the smaller shops have less technicians and smaller advertising budgets, they are also going to work harder to raise the bar for customer satisfaction levels with each client who walks through their door and you’ll get that personal feeling when you visit these shops because you’re not just a number in the list for the day.

In fact, according to a survey conducted by Consumer Reports, independent repair shops scored better in terms of satisfaction and quality when compared to dealerships.

Bay Diagnostics provides care for all of your automotive needs, from repairs to preventative maintenance for your BMW, Land Rover, Range Rover, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Mini Cooper and more. We’ve been specializing in the service and repair of European cars for more than 25 years. We work harder, faster and smarter than the rest. If you’re in Brooklyn or the surrounding area, schedule an appointment or speak to one of our experienced technicians today!

Causes of Catalytic Converter Failure in Cars

| February 22, 2018

Catalytic Converter Repair

Catalytic converters play an integral role in your vehicle’s overall function. While you might be able to drive under some circumstances where the catalytic converter is compromised or damaged, there are other potential scenarios where damage to this part can cause your vehicle to exhibit symptoms of serious problems. It is most important to keep up on maintenance and repair procedures; however, despite our best efforts, sometimes the catalytic converter can become damaged or worn anyway.

The catalytic converter is in a particularly vulnerable spot on most vehicles. Located beneath the car, about midway from the engine, the converter is susceptible to damage by large bumps and debris in the road—particularly in cars that are lower to the ground. There is a lot that can go wrong with a catalytic converter, and it’s important that your automotive specialist knows how to properly address the issue. Here is some more background information about catalytic converters, including troubling symptoms indicating failure, potential causes of the damage, and how you can prevent such issues in the future.

What is a catalytic converter?

A catalytic converter is part of the exhaust/emissions system in a car. It’s main function is to convert harmful gasses that your engine produces into less-obtrusive emissions that meet environmental protective standards. All vehicles must have this protective mechanism installed, with the exception of older, classic cars produced before the 1970s.

Potential causes of failure

While there are many issues that can cause a catalytic converter to fail or malfunction, the greatest culprit of such problems is mileage and vehicle age. It’s important to keep in mind that, generally-speaking, simply replacing the converter won’t solve the problem entirely. There are, however, specific avenues that professional automotive specialists tend to follow when attempting to diagnose a problem with the catalytic converter; these are a few of them.

Faulty valve seals

Valve seals are designed to keep pressurized gasses intact within the exhaust and emission systems. When the seal fails or becomes degraded and compromised, it can cause significant performance issues related to the catalytic converter functioning.

Failing spark plugs

Spark plugs are necessary for the combustion process. When they aren’t functioning properly, it can cause fuel to leak into the converter. Not only is this dangerous, but it can cause significant damage to the converter.

Signs and symptoms of a failing converter

The signs and symptoms of a failing catalytic converter are not uncommon or unique—in other words, they mimic signs of other issues. Therefore, in order to properly diagnose catalytic converter failure it’s essential for the driver to monitor the symptoms closely so that the automotive professional can attempt to re-create the issue accurately.

Performance issues

Perhaps the most troubling sign of catalytic converter clogging or failure is a decrease in fuel efficiency. Depending on what type of car you drive and your typical driving habits, it might not be easy to recognize slight changes in fuel efficiency; however, any noticeable changes in gas mileage should be addressed immediately. Furthermore, you might experience exhaust and emission issues, such as not being able to pass a smog test.

Engine misfiring

Another concerning symptom of catalytic converter failure or clogs is engine misfiring and overheating. Although engine misfiring is typical of other automotive issues as well, it’s critical to have the issue properly diagnosed before spending money attending to only spark plugs or other areas of question.

Catalytic Converter

What you can do to prevent problems

The best way to combat catalytic converter issues is to stay on top of routine maintenance procedures and to follow up on any troubling signs or symptoms you may notice. Here at Bay Diagnostic, we proudly serve the areas of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New York, NY. Attending to European imports like BMW, Land Rover, and Porsche, we have a specialized basis in automotive care and continue to educate ourselves and our clients on current procedures and automotive knowledge. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms in your vehicle performance and would like to schedule an inspection or diagnostic procedure, please call one of our professionals directly. We pride ourselves on our diagnostic skill, accuracy, and efficiency, which is critical when it comes to saving our clients time and money in repairs. For more information about our business philosophy, please get in touch!

How to Recognize and Fix ABS Failure in Your Land Rover

| February 7, 2018

Land Rover Brake Repair

Land Rovers have a magnificent history—for nearly 7 decades, they have been one of the leading four-wheel-drive vehicles on the market. Designed for endurance and durability, the Land Rover brand is synonymous with function and reliability. That’s why when you notice an issue with your Land Rover, you may become especially disappointed, and rightfully so. However, it’s important to keep in mind that no machine can function without ongoing maintenance and care. Even if you follow the recommended maintenance schedule perfectly, you might still encounter issues. When problems do arise, it’s important to take your car to an automotive technician who has extensive experience with the Land Rover brand.

One issue that can be especially frightening to encounter in your Land Rover is ABS (anti-lock braking system) failure. Since this system directly affects the safety of you and the other passengers in the vehicle, it is critical to have any potential issues addressed immediately and continue ongoing preventive measures. While most current Land Rover models have impeccable technology to detect ABS problems before they become a safety hazard, it can be helpful to be able to recognize the symptoms of ABS failure in your Land Rover before things become dicey. Here’s a little more information about ABS failure and what can be done to remedy the situation:

What does an ABS do?

With the advancement of technology over the decades, multiple tech-based systems have been integrated into automobiles as precautionary and preventive safety measures. Included in these features is ABS, or anti-lock braking systems. An anti-lock braking system usually comes stock in all modern vehicles, especially four-wheel-drive vehicles like Land Rovers. The anti-lock braking system is what keeps the wheels from seizing when brakes are forcefully applied, giving the vehicle better grip and traction to avoid sliding. The ABS in your Land Rover is comprised of several different components where issues can arise. Especially since most vehicular mechanisms are tech-based, it’s important to have a professional automotive shop conduct inspections or other maintenance procedures on your ABS.

Where can problems originate?

There are a number of different things that can go wrong with your ABS in your Land Rover, and depending on the origin of the issue, you might notice different troubling symptoms. The ABS sensors are what signal the module to quickly apply more braking force by determining if the wheel speed may contribute to skidding or hydroplaning. Of course, the module or the sensors can fail, but the brakes themselves can be in good condition. It’s important to have an accurate diagnosis the first time around to avoid safety hazards and costly repairs down the line.

Common Signs of Trouble

Recognizing that there’s a problem with your Land Rover’s ABS usually doesn’t take catastrophic failure to determine. Since technology has greatly advanced over the decades, the signs of ABS failure are usually first detected by your car itself. Your car’s computer has a special sensor connected to the ABS system, which should alert you if something isn’t working quite right. Of course, it’s possible for this sensor to be defective, but unlikely. If you notice the ABS light on the dashboard, it should be taken to a Land Rover specialist to diagnose with the proper equipment. Other more sinister signs of trouble might include your brakes locking or not responding all together. Ongoing brake maintenance can help detect issues early-on before a disaster occurs, so it’s important to have your brakes and your ABS routinely inspected.

Land Rover Cars

Here at Bay Diagnostic, our expert techs have been serving Land Rover owners in the areas of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New York, NY, for over 25 years. Luxury European imports are our specialty, and we have a deep passion for studying and mastering their engineering, design, and maintenance. Perhaps the only other thing we’re more passionate about other than automobiles is our business and our clients—including their safety. Auto engineering isn’t perfect, even if we’re talking about a Land Rover or any other luxury vehicle; ABS systems do fail, and can threaten our safety. If you would like to have your brake system inspected, contact us today—we look forward to helping you feel more secure in your Land Rover.

Land Rover Cars image credit goes to: tomeng.

How To Know Your Audi Engine Needs Maintenance

| January 23, 2018

Audi Engine Start Stop

As cars get more and more advanced, it is easier to know when something is wrong and when your car needs service. In European-made vehicles especially, the technology has improved to give you almost instant dashboard readings or warning lights that indicate even the slightest thing is off. When the check engine light is on, drivers know that it could be almost anything causing the problem so getting it serviced quickly is key to preventing long-term issues. For Audi drivers looking to have their Audi serviced before the check-engine light is on however, here are some signs to look for that indicate your engine may need maintenance and what may be causing them.

Loss Of Engine Power

If you begin experiencing loss of power when driving or accelerating, it can indicate that there is an issue with one of the strokes in your engine. Your engine is made up of a four-stroke combustion cycle that consists of the intake stroke, compression stroke, combustion stroke and the exhaust stroke. These strokes work to convert gasoline into power for your engine so if one of them begins to have issues or fails you will notice the effects almost immediately.

Gas Mileage Reduction

If it seems like your car is getting worse gas mileage then that is not something to ignore. An issue in the compression stroke often affects fuel efficiency so any drop-off in your car’s gas mileage may indicate an issue. You can try using a fuel cleaner or having a full fuel system service done but if the issue has lasted an extended period of time then you may want to have a tune-up performed. If neither of those methods helps cure the problem then you should seek out your reliable mechanic for a full engine diagnostic reading to determine the actual issue.

Unusual Noises From Your Car

After years behind the wheel you know what your car should sound like and what to expect. Unusual noises like random knocking or hissing along with backfires and pops never mean anything good. If you are hearing any of these when starting your vehicle or while driving then there is a good chance that there is an abnormality in the combustion flow of your engine. Any unusual sound should not be taken lightly and if you begin to hear any of the sounds listed above then seek the help of your mechanic immediately.

Unusual Smells From Your Car

If your engine’s exhaust stroke is starting to fail then you may notice an odor coming from the exhaust. Whether it is burning oil from a leak or coming from another problem, unusual smells should never be ignored. If you notice any smells that are foul in odor then it is important to treat it like a weird sound and seek the help of your mechanic ASAP.

Engine Running Rougher Than Usual

If your engine is having issues with running or idling rougher than usual than it may be time for a tune-up. There are a number of factors that can lead to this issue but the most common causes tend to be a clog in the system or old and worn out spark plugs. In addition it could even be something as minimal as using the wrong octane gas when you fill up or a battery that is running low. With so many potential causes it is important to get an accurate diagnosis from a mechanic to ensure the problem gets resolved quickly and correctly.

Audi Quattro

Quality Service For Your Audi

For years, the experts at Bay Diagnostic in Brooklyn have been providing Audi owners with superior service and maintenance work. Our specialists understand the ins and outs of each Audi vehicle along with their specific service needs and schedules. If you notice your vehicle handling a little differently or any of the signs listed above, our experts are here to assist you and to ensure your vehicle gets the quality of service that you are counting on. Our Bosch certified mechanics know that you rely on your Audi for superior performance and any issue with the engine needs to be handled properly and quickly. That is why we work harder, faster and smarter than the rest to deliver your car back to you in perfect condition at a much more affordable price than the competition. If you are in Brooklyn or the surrounding area and you are in need of engine maintenance or other services for your Audi then choose the superior service experts at Bay Diagnostic. Call us today to schedule an appointment for your car or to speak to one of our specialists about available services for your Audi.

Audi Quattro image credit goes to: bizoo_n.

Effective Tips to Extend Your Car Battery Life

| January 8, 2018

Car Battery Issue Check

Ongoing vehicle maintenance can be costly and time consuming; however, if vehicles go unmaintained, then repair bills end up heavily outweighing the cost of the regular maintenance and care. All parts of your vehicle need routine upkeep, and it’s important to remain aware of how critical a role preventive procedures play in ensuring the longevity and function of such parts. For instance, one part we might not think to maintain regularly is the battery. Your car’s battery is meant to be replaced every so often; although, by taking good care of your battery you can extend its life significantly and save money in the long run. There are things you can do to regularly maintain your battery; here are some effective tips on how to extend your car battery life:

Be sure that all interior lights are off

Every time you get out of your car, it’s important to check and make sure that nothing electrical is left on. Before you lock the car, it’s best to check all the interior lights and headlights to make sure that the battery isn’t drained while it’s parked. Unfortunately, too many of us have experienced the sad realization upon returning to our cars that the battery has completely drained because we left an overhead light on. Fortunately, many vehicles have safeguards in place to automatically turn off any lights while the car sits.

Frequently check for battery corrosion

Just like other parts of your vehicle that can become damaged over time, the battery is especially susceptible to corrosion from moisture and rust. This can render the battery completely ineffective after a period of time. If you are unsure of how to check your battery for corrosion, it might be best to take it to a professional auto mechanic. They will thoroughly inspect the battery to make sure the connectors and wiring are properly working and the battery is able to hold a charge.

Limit start and stop errands

Batteries work best when they are given enough time to recharge while driving. Battery recharging occurs after a period of time driving because the alternator takes time to provide the battery with more charge and energy. Unfortunately, when we routinely take our cars on short trips all over town, the battery is often not given enough time to adequately recharge, and this can be draining on the overall life and longevity of the part. If your battery is not fully recharging, you may notice difficulty starting your vehicle or overall low power.

Use electronics wisely

Since we spend a lot of time in our cars, we rely heavily on the battery to facilitate enough power for our other electronic devices such as tablets, phones, laptops, etc. It is important to remember that your car battery is not intended to support power for such devices; however, you can utilize the car’s battery to hold a charge on such devices at the appropriate times. You should wait until the car has been driving (this means the battery has charged more) before connecting any electronic devices.

Insulate the battery

Especially during temperature changes (extreme cold or warm weather), our car batteries can significantly deplete in effectiveness. Living in especially cold or warm temperatures can take a serious toll on your car’s battery, so it’s important to take necessary precautions to protect it from extreme weather changes. You can purchase a battery insulation kit and install it yourself, or you can take it to a reliable service center to help you with the installation.

Invest in a battery charger

Another way to protect the life of your battery is to invest in a battery charger. This device simply connects to your battery while it sits for periods of time, or even overnight, allowing it to properly hold a full charge. If there is something wrong with your battery, however, it may need to be replaced—as a charger will likely be ineffective.

Car Battery Jump Start

How we can help

Here at Bay Diagnostic, we specialize in European import automotive care for clients in the areas of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New York, NY. Our prices are up to 45% lower than nearby dealerships and auto shops, making us one of the most affordable options in the area. We take a preventive approach to automotive work, and that extends to battery care. If you are concerned about the life of your car battery, contact us today to set up a consultation or inspection. It is our mission to restore and improve your vehicle’s performance.

Easy Ways To Retain Your BMWs Luster For Years

| December 25, 2017

BMW Maintenance

No vehicle better encompasses what it means to be a “luxury car” better than BMW. For years, the latest technology and safety advancements have made each iteration of BMW bigger and better while continually offering drivers the best performance available. Another reason that so many drivers prefer BMW to the competition is the ability of BMW vehicles to hold value for extended periods of time. However it is largely up to how you service your BMW and tend to its maintenance schedule that determines the value your car can hold for years to come. Following BMW’s custom designed service schedule is of course the best way to preserve your car’s performance but these easy tips will also make sure that you maintain your car’s luster for years to come as well.

Keep Your Car Clean Inside And Out

A clean car will not only obviously look better but it can lead to better performance as well. The dirt and debris that accumulates on your car and in it can lead to damage to various components throughout the vehicle that will impact performance. A dirty car may also lead to you unconsciously treating your car more poorly than usual which can lead to depreciation in value.

Protect The Leather

If your BMW has a leather interior then one of the most important measures you can take is to keep it clean and treated. Leather can suffer wear and tear over time as well as cracking and fading from being left out in the sun. Regularly using leather treatments will help keep it looking soft and supple for years while a seat cover may also help avoid cracking or fading.

Waxing Will Help Prevent Rust

Whether you decide to do this on your own or at the car wash it is a great idea to regularly have your car waxed. Waxing your car will keep it looking clean and good as new and will also help prevent rusting on the vehicle. Rust is often the cause for a lot of cars looking older than they may actually be and can hurt the future resale value of your car.

Drive Carefully

While it may be appealing to drive your BMW aggressively and pushing the limits of its’ performance, driving like that does come with a price. Quick acceleration and sudden stops or tight corners will lead to way more wear and tear on your car and at a faster rate. That will ultimately lead to higher repair costs and more frequent trips to the mechanic.

Keep A Log To Track Mileage

This may seem excessive but it’s actually a pretty simple way to make sure everything is working properly. By keeping track of your fuel mileage and how often you fill up with gas you can keep track of the mileage and if it changes or gets worse. Worsening gas mileage is usually an early warning sign that something is wrong so if you observe changes make sure to schedule an appointment with your technician.

Know What Services You Need

It’s important that you know what various services make up the service schedule for your vehicle. You will have to take your BMW in eventually so preventative maintenance is a great way to stay ahead of any issues or problems. The key areas to focus on with preventative maintenance include:

  • Engine– obviously your car’s engine is the most important part of the car. You need to make sure it is always functioning at a high level and that at even the slightest disturbance, you have it checked out before problems have a chance to develop.
  • Brakes– your brakes wear out over time depending on your driving style and should be checked regularly. Whether it’s worn out brake pads or leaks in the system, make sure that the entire brake system is flushed about every 2 years.
  • Cooling system– Along with the engine, you want your cooling system functioning highly to prevent overheating. Constant overheating to the engine can be catastrophic so whether there’s a leak or damage somewhere, be sure to have your cooling system checked regularly.

BMW Exterior Look

For All of Your BMW’s Service Needs

For drivers in Brooklyn, NY and the surrounding areas, the expert staff at Bay Diagnostic make BMW maintenance a breeze. Our specialists understand the ins and outs of your BMW and the service schedule that comes specifically designed for your model. Preventative maintenance is the number one way to keep your vehicle’s luster and by following the tips listed above and letting Bay Diagnostic handle all of your service needs, your BMW will remain looking and feeling as good as new for years to come.

Possible Winter Effects On Your Mercedes

| December 11, 2017

BMW in Winter

With the cold season fast approaching, it’s important that you protect your car from the harsh environments that come with winters in Brooklyn. Heavy rain, snow and slick roads usually lead to less than safe driving conditions and many accidents but it can also wreak havoc on your vehicle if left unattended to or if you are unprepared. Before the Brooklyn winter takes full effect, make sure that you get your Mercedes the service that it needs so that you can avoid these potential winter effects on it.

Your Battery Can Die Faster

Make sure that your battery is tested before the start of winter. Extreme cold can pull voltage from the battery and will make it much harder for your car to start. If you have a garage make sure to keep your Mercedes inside to avoid this issue but if not, checking the battery before winter will help prevent any unpleasant surprises as you try to go to work one morning.

Car Fluids Can Thicken In Low Temperatures

Make sure that you routinely check all of your car’s fluids such as oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake and transmission fluids. In the cold these fluids will thicken and it makes it harder for your car to run properly. Possibly the most important to check is the transmission fluid as it needs to flow quickly and if it is incapable of flowing quickly your vehicle simply won’t function.

Your Tire Pressure Will Be Impacted

It’s been suggested that most tires will typically lose about 1 psi for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. Because of this it is important to check tire inflation as the weather gets colder and colder. Tires that are under-inflated are an extreme hazard on the road and do not perform very well. They are also more likely to sustain damage or experience failure in snow or icy conditions.

Spark Plug Becomes More Unreliable During Winter

Your car may have issues starting because of a bad spark plug or clogged filter during the cold months. As it gets colder your car will have a hard start so if there is a bad spark plug or old wiring it will impact your vehicle’s performance and the reliability in it starting. Having your spark plugs checked as part of a comprehensive service appointment before the winter will help prevent any issues with starting.

It Can Cause Leaking

The metal and plastic in your vehicle are subjected to a lot of condensation during the winter as it constantly goes from cold to warm, to cold again. That usually leads to the development of ice in systems like the power steering, brake and engine transmission systems which then leads to leaks. In the high and low pressure systems the ice cannot move through the lines in any of the major systems. This can become an especially dangerous occurrence in the steering and brake systems if it leads to any malfunctions. To combat this problem, you should flush and replace all of your car’s fluids before the winter as well as make sure your vehicle has been properly warmed before driving it anywhere.

Car Tire on Icy Road

Salt Buildups Can Cause Corrosion

Intense cold along with snow and rain may be the worst of your concerns for your vehicle but there is also another one that shouldn’t be overlooked: salt. Most road crews will use salt to melt snow and ice on the roads and this can cause problems to all of your car’s metal. If salt begins to build up on your car and is left unattended to it can corrode the undercarriage, brakes and wheel wells. Wiping away excess salt with a cloth can cause heavy scratching to your paint so instead be sure to frequently wash your car during the winter, including under the vehicle. This removes that salt and ensures your car is free of any corrosion damage.

Winter Proofing Your Mercedes

Mercedes vehicles are known for reliable performance and comfort throughout any conditions and the experts at Bay Diagnostic are here to make sure that stays true all year round. Whether your car is feeling the effects of the winter months or you are trying to stay prepared before the cold comes, our friendly staff will assist you through every step of vehicle maintenance. We also use only the highest quality materials for service so if it’s a fluid check you can rest assured your car is receiving the same exact replacement fluids it would at the dealership. Our mechanics have years of experiencing preserving Mercedes and other luxury vehicles’ performance throughout the harsh Brooklyn winters so we know what it takes to get the job done right. Before the winter swings into full effect make sure to call us today to make sure that your Mercedes doesn’t fall victim to the many problems that an icy winter can cause.

Featured image credit goes to: Alexey Bykov.

Role of Cooling System in Cars

| November 25, 2017

Car Engine Coolant

Engines are constantly firing while running, producing massive amounts of heat that must be regulated in order for the car to function properly—enter the car’s cooling system. While engine firing doesn’t itself make the engine hot, the heat produced by the rapid succession of firing accumulates heat. Typical, average car engines are cooled with the help of liquid coolant and a complex system of parts that collaborate together to reduce the engine’s overall temperature to the optimal driving level. Overheating and other temperature related issues could occur if something goes wrong with the cooling system, so it’s important to be vaguely familiar with the different parts of the cooling system and their role or function in case you encounter specific symptoms. Here are a few of the cooling system components, how they work, and typical issues that are associated with them:

Radiator

The radiator is responsible for circulating the cooling fluid, usually antifreeze. The radiator works with the water pump to combine water and antifreeze through the complicated system of hoses that encompasses the radiator. The liquid antifreeze/water combination cools the temperature of the engine when combined with airflow. One of the most typical issues that one may encounter with the radiator is a leak. Leaks can occur in any number of the radiator components, but usually the leak is traced back to cracked hoses. When your radiator begins to leak, it will certainly cause issues—one of them being engine overheating. When the radiator loses the coolant and water fluids, it also loses its ability to cool the engine. Your temperature gauge will likely spike, or you may notice steam rising from your engine. In this scenario, it is best to pull of the road and have your car towed; it is fruitless to fill your engine with more water or antifreeze if the leak is substantial enough—you likely won’t make it to the nearest mechanic.

Water Pump

As previously mentioned, the water pump works in tandem with the radiator components to cool the engine. The water pump itself works by way of a timing belt mechanism that creates a water flow, allowing the liquid to mix with the antifreeze and circulate through the engine. If other parts of your engine are not running properly, this can affect the timing belt mechanism which in turn will disable your water pump. When a water pump malfunctions, the cooling system can no longer remove heat from the engine. Failed water pumps are not uncommon in the average vehicle, and it is critical to have the problem assessed at once. Along with radiator issues, when the water pump isn’t functioning properly, it will likely lead to overheating, which will put your car out of commission until the problem can be diagnosed and repaired.

The Whole System

As you can see, the entire cooling system serves a critical function in engine occupation. Much like other parts of your vehicle, one part cannot run without a series of other parts doing their job adequately. The cooling system in itself is complex, and includes plenty of opportunities for issues to arise. Anything can go wrong from cracked belts and hoses to failing water pumps and radiator leaks. Therefore, it is critical to have thorough inspections performed on your cooling system regularly. But you shouldn’t stop there; as mentioned before, the cooling system relies on other parts of your vehicle to be working properly. For instance, if a timing belt snaps, the water pump’s timing chain cannot engage properly either. For overall vehicle health, it is important to have trusted hands take a look at what’s going on under the hood.

Our Services

Car Coolant Check There are plenty of conditions that can contribute to failing cooling systems, including harsh temperature and weather conditions, driving habits, and typical traffic conditions you experience. In areas like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New York, NY, the condensed traffic can wreak havoc on your cooling system. In warmer months especially, or even preventatively before summer hits, the experts at Bay Diagnostic can help you assess how well your cooling system is functioning and address any issues preemptively. Don’t get stuck overheated on the roadside; contact us to schedule an inspection—we’ll be happy to help put your mind at ease.