Question 1

What's the most common mistake when jumping a car?

Accepted Answer

The #1 mistake is connecting the jumper cables incorrectly-reversing the positive (red) and negative (black) leads can cause serious damage to your alternator or battery. Always double-check your connections and avoid using damaged or low-quality cables. If you're unsure, it's safest to let Van Allen Automotive, Inc. handle the jump-start for you.

Question 2

What should I avoid when replacing a car battery?

Accepted Answer

When replacing a car battery, avoid letting tools bridge the terminals-it can cause sparks or electrical shorts. Make sure the battery is properly secured before connecting cables. Unsure how to replace a car battery safely? Our team is here to help with expert, affordable installation services.

Question 3

How do I replace my car battery without losing car memory?

Accepted Answer

Use a car memory saver or other secondary power source. If you don't own a car memory saver, come to Matt Davis Auto and we can do this process for you. First, make sure to turn off your car before you unplug the battery. Next, plug the car memory saver into the cigarette lighter or the OBD2 connector. Remove the old battery and install the new battery and attach the connectors. Finally, unplug the memory saver from the car.

Question 4

Why is my engine stalling after replacing my car battery?

Accepted Answer

If your car lost battery power completely then your car's computer system may have lost valuable information to regulate engine performance causing it to stall even after you replace the battery. However, the car's system will quickly collect new data and engine performance should return to normal. In some case you may need to have the throttle body, or your idle air control valve cleaned out as carbon deposits can build up inside these parts, pushing them beyond the computer's ability to regulate engine performance.

Question 5

How do I unlock the steering wheel if it's stuck?

Accepted Answer

Apply pressure to the brake and turn the steering wheel slightly while turning the ignition key. This typically releases tension in the steering column and unlocks the wheel. If it doesn't work or the battery is dead, contact a professional to avoid damaging the ignition system.

Question 6

How do I change my keyless entry remote battery?

Accepted Answer

This should work for most remotes:Remove the metal blade key from the remote.Use a standard (flat head) screwdriver to gently pry open the fob.Remove the battery. It is usually a small round lithium watch battery.Insert a new battery.Snap the key fob back together.Insert the metal blade key into the fob.

Question 7

What sound does a bad starter make?

Accepted Answer

A failing starter often clicks when you turn the key-but it might also produce a grinding or whirring sound, or no sound at all. If your engine won't turn over, schedule a diagnostic with Van Allen Automotive, Inc. to determine if starter replacement is needed.

Question 8

Why won't my car start?

Accepted Answer

The most common reason why a car will not start is a bad or dead battery. However, there are several other possibilities too. If you are having trouble getting your vehicle started, give Matt Davis Auto a call at 919-398-6171. Our auto repair professionals will try to help you diagnose the issue, which could be one of these problems:Failing alternatorStarter motorIgnition switch malfunctionBad spark plugsCracked distributor capBroken timing belt

Question 9

What are the 3 situations where headlights are required?

Accepted Answer

First, you should make sure both of your headlights are in good working order before driving your car. Headlights must be in use from sunset to sunrise.Secondly, headlights are also necessary when you cannot see more than 400 feet in front of you. You should also use your car's headlights whenever windshield wipers are in use.Thirdly, some studies have shown that when drivers elect to always drive with their headlights on it can reduce automobile accidents.

Question 10

Do parking lights and turn signals use the same bulb?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your car uses the same bulb for the front turn signal and parking lights. Side bulbs are located on the inside of the wheel wells. All lights on your car will eventually burn out and need to be replaced.

Auto Electrical Repair & Maintenance

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