Jerry's Auto Repair Blog

When your check engine light comes on, it can be alarming, especially if you're unsure of the cause. While some issues might be minor, others could indicate serious problems that need immediate attention. The important thing is that you visit the shop ASAP for diagnostics. At Jerry’s Auto Repair, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Grandview, MO area. Here are five common reasons the check engine light may illuminate. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor can lead to poor fuel-efficiency and higher emissions. When the sensor fails, it often triggers the check engine light, and replacement is necessary to promote optimal engine performance. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter is a crucial component of your vehicle’s emissions system. It converts harmful gasses into less harmful emissions before they exit the exhaust. If the catalytic converter is clogged or failing, it can reduce your car’s performance, increase emissions, and trigger the check engine light. Loose/Damaged Gas Cap A loose or damaged gas cap is one of the simplest and most common reasons for the check engine light to turn on. The gas cap seals your fuel system. If the cap is loose or cracked, fuel may evaporate before your engine gets the chance to run on it. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps the computer determine how much fuel to inject for proper combustion. If the MAF sensor is faulty, it can cause the engine to run too lean or too rich, which can lead to poor performance, rough idling, and even stalling. Worn Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils work together to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. As they age, spark plugs can wear out, or ignition coils can fail, resulting in engine misfires. Replacing these components is a relatively simple and affordable fix that can restore your engine’s performance. Check Engine Light Repair in Grandview, MO For check engine light diagnostics and repair in Grandview, MO and the surrounding area, contact Jerry’s Auto Repair at  (816) 722-2344  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s suspension system is responsible for providing a smooth ride, maintaining handling, and keeping your tires in contact with the road. When something goes wrong with the suspension, it can lead to discomfort and unsafe driving conditions, making it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At Jerry’s Auto Repair, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Grandview, MO area. Here are five signs that you have a suspension problem. Rough or Bumpy Ride One of the most obvious signs of suspension trouble is a rough or bumpy ride. If you begin to feel every little bump or pothole, or your vehicle is bouncing excessively, your shocks or struts may be worn out. These components are critical for absorbing impacts and smoothing out the ride. Uneven Tire Wear If your suspension system is malfunctioning, you might notice uneven tire wear. This happens when the suspension is no longer able to keep the tires properly aligned with the road. Uneven tire wear can be a clue that there is a problem with the shocks, struts, or other suspension components, and it can lead to faster tire degradation and reduced handling performance. Nose-Diving When Braking When your suspension is in good shape, it helps keep the vehicle level, even during braking. However, if your car nose-dives when you hit the brakes, there may be an issue with the shocks, struts, or springs. This may compromise your ability to stop quickly, increasing the risk of accidents. Difficulty Steering If you’re noticing that steering has become more difficult, your suspension system may be to blame. Problems with the steering linkage, tie rods, or bushings can reduce your ability to control the vehicle smoothly. Vehicle Pulls to One Side A suspension problem can also cause your vehicle to pull to one side while driving, which is often a result of a misalignment or a damaged suspension component. If your car consistently veers off course without input from the steering wheel, it can be dangerous and requires immediate attention from the mechanic. Auto Repair in Grandview, MO For auto repair in Grandview, MO and the surrounding area, contact Jerry’s Auto Repair at  (816) 722-2344  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!