Yakima Auto Repair

A drop in fuel mileage can feel mysterious because the car may still start, run, and shift the same as always. But fuel economy rarely changes for no reason. Something has shifted in how the engine burns fuel, how the tires roll, or how the vehicle moves through the air. The good news is that most mileage killers leave clues, and many are fixable without chasing parts at random. Start With What Changed Recently Before you assume the car has a major problem, think about what changed in the last month. Colder weather, winter fuel blends, short trips, and long warm-ups can all reduce mileage. Heavier traffic and more idling does it too. Even a new roof rack or cargo box can take a noticeable bite out of highway MPG. That said, if your mileage keeps dropping even after your routine returns to normal, it is time to look for mechanical causes. A steady downward trend usually means something is worn, sticking, or out of adjustment. Tire Pressure And Rolling Resis ... read more

When the car won't start, most people go straight to the battery. That makes sense because the battery is the part you can see and replace quickly. The problem is that a weak alternator can drain a good battery, and a tired battery can make a good alternator look bad. If you want to avoid buying the wrong part, focus on the pattern. Starting symptoms, dashboard warnings, and a couple of simple checks can usually point you toward the real culprit. What The Battery Does Vs What The Alternator Does The battery’s main job is to deliver a big burst of power to start the engine. It also helps stabilize voltage for electronics when demand changes quickly. Once the engine is running, the alternator takes over. It powers the vehicle and recharges the battery after starting. If the alternator is not charging properly, the car runs on battery reserve while you drive. That reserve can keep things going for a bit, but it will run out. If the battery is weak, the alter ... read more