ATL Total Car Care Blog
If the car seems to be running well, drivers will sometimes ignore an illuminated check engine light. However, waiting too long to investigate could lead to more expensive repairs or even engine significant damage. At ATL Total Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Murfreesboro area. Here’s a look at four common problems that can trigger the check engine light and why they should be addressed right away. Faulty Oxygen Sensor The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust and helps the engine control the air-fuel mixture. If this sensor fails, your engine may burn more fuel than necessary and emit more pollutants. Ignoring a faulty oxygen sensor can cause poor fuel-economy, increase emissions, and potentially damage the catalytic converter, which is a more costly repair. Malfunctioning Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter plays a key role in reducing your vehicle’s emissions by converting harmful gases into less harmful substances. If it starts to fail, you may notice a decrease in engine performance and fuel-efficiency. Ignoring this issue can eventually lead to engine misfires. Problem with the Mass Air Flow Sensor The mass air flow (MAF) sensor helps your car’s computer determine how much fuel to inject based on the amount of air entering the engine. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can lead to rough starts, poor fuel-economy, and even stalling. Failing Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs Ignition coils and spark plugs are vital for starting your engine and keeping it running smoothly. When these components begin to wear out or fail, you may experience rough idling, reduced acceleration, or misfires. Replacing faulty ignition components can restore proper engine function and help prevent trouble from escalating. Check Engine Light Repair in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto repair in Murfreesboro, TN and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at 615-813-9970 . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
Planning a road trip is exciting, but before you hit the open road, it's essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey. Visiting a mechanic for a pre-trip inspection can help prevent breakdowns and keep your trip stress-free. At ATL Total Car Care, we can get your vehicle ready for the long road ahead. Here are five reasons to schedule a visit to the mechanic before heading out. Ensure Your Car is Roadworthy The mechanic can perform a thorough inspection to confirm that your vehicle is in good condition and capable of handling long hours on the road. From brakes and tires to fluid levels and suspension, many components must work together to ensure safe and smooth travel. If any parts are worn out or close to failing, your mechanic can catch them before they cause problems during your trip. Improve Fuel-Efficiency A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently, which is especially important on long road trips where fuel costs add up quickly. The mechanic can make sure your engine is tuned properly, your tires are inflated to the correct pressure, and your filters are fresh. These simple adjustments can improve your gas mileage, saving you money at the pump along the way. Prevent Breakdowns Long drives put extra stress on your vehicle, especially if it hasn't been serviced in a while. The mechanic can identify early warning signs of mechanical trouble that could lead to a breakdown if ignored. Checking the battery, belts, hoses, and cooling system can help avoid engine overheating or electrical failure. Preventive maintenance gives you peace of mind and reduces the risk of costly emergency repairs during your trip. Verify Safety Systems Are Working Safety should be a top priority whenever you're driving, and especially on longer journeys. The mechanic can check that your lights, wipers, horn, and brakes are functioning properly. Ensuring your safety systems are in top shape helps protect you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Avoid Travel Delays and Stress Nothing disrupts a road trip faster than an unexpected car issue. Being forced to find a mechanic in an unfamiliar town or waiting hours for a tow can seriously derail your travel plans. Visiting the mechanic before you leave gives you the confidence that your vehicle is ready to go, helping you focus on the fun and freedom that make road trips so memorable. Auto Maintenance in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto maintenance in Murfreesboro and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at 615-813-9970 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
As soon as you first notice that your vehicle is struggling to fire up, it's important to identify the root cause quickly. Ignoring the issue can lead to bigger problems and leave you stranded when you least expect it. At ATL Total Car Care, our local mechanics are highly experienced with identifying and addressing issues that cause hard-starts and no-starts. Here are four common reasons your vehicle might be having trouble starting. Weak/Dead Battery A weak or dead battery is one of the most common reasons vehicles experience hard-start or no-start issues. Batteries lose strength over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. If your engine cranks slowly, your lights are dim, or you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, your battery may be the culprit. Sometimes the issue lies with corroded terminals or loose connections rather than the battery itself, so a visual inspection and battery test can help diagnose the problem. Fuel Delivery Issues For an engine to start, it needs the right amount of fuel at the right time. If there’s a problem with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors, your engine might crank but not start. A failing fuel pump won’t deliver enough pressure, a clogged filter can restrict flow, and dirty injectors may prevent proper combustion. If the vehicle struggles during start-up and runs rough afterward, it could be a sign of fuel system trouble. Bad Ignition Switch The ignition switch sends power from the battery to the vehicle's electrical systems and the starter. When the ignition switch fails, your vehicle may not respond at all when you turn the key. You might notice flickering dashboard lights or the radio cutting out. These signs suggest that the ignition switch isn’t making proper electrical contact. Replacing a faulty ignition switch is essential to get your vehicle starting normally again. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for turning over the engine when you start the vehicle. If the starter is failing, you may hear a single click or no sound at all when trying to start the engine. Over time, internal components of the starter wear out, especially if the vehicle has high mileage. A faulty starter needs to be replaced promptly to restore reliable operation. Auto Repair in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto repair in Murfreesboro, TN and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at 615-813-9970 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
