ATL Total Car Care Blog

By following key maintenance practices, you can help extend the life of your engine and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At ATL Total Car Care, our local mechanics provide expert engine maintenance in the greater Murfreesboro area. Here’s a look at five tips for keeping your engine in great condition. Change the Oil and Filters Regularly Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, providing lubrication to reduce friction between moving parts. Over time, oil breaks down and collects dirt and debris, which can lead to excessive wear and overheating. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals helps keep your engine clean and well-lubricated. In addition to changing the oil, replacing the oil filter helps ensure contaminants don’t circulate through the engine. Keep the Air and Fuel Systems Clean Engines require the right mixture of air and fuel for efficient combustion. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the engine to work harder and potentially burn more fuel. Similarly, dirty fuel injectors or a clogged fuel filter can disrupt fuel delivery, leading to rough idling and poor acceleration. Replacing air and fuel filters as recommended helps maintain a smooth-running engine. Monitor and Maintain the Cooling System An overheated engine can cause severe damage, including warped cylinder heads and blown head gaskets. Your vehicle’s cooling system plays a crucial role in regulating engine temperature. Ensuring that the radiator, water pump, and thermostat are functioning properly helps prevent overheating. Flushing the coolant system at recommended intervals removes buildup and helps maintain optimal performance. Pay Attention to Signs of an Issue Unusual noises, discolored/excessive exhaust smoke, difficulty starting, or a sudden drop in performance can indicate engine trouble. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more significant problems, resulting in more expensive repairs. The check engine light is another critical indicator that something may be wrong. Getting your vehicle inspected at the first sign of trouble can help catch minor issues before they turn into major mechanical failures. Follow a Routine Maintenance Schedule Preventive maintenance is key to a healthy engine. Regular tune-ups, timely belt and hose replacements, and proper spark plug maintenance are all important tasks that contribute to overall engine performance. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and addressing minor concerns promptly help maximize your engine’s lifespan. Engine Repair & Maintenance in Murfreesboro, TN When you need an experienced mechanic 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!

Ignoring brake problems can lead to dangerous situations, putting yourself and others at risk. Recognizing the warning signs of brake trouble can help prevent accidents and costly repairs. At ATL Total Car Care, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Murfreesboro, TN area. Here are five common signs of a brake problem that should be addressed ASAP. Squeaking or Grinding Noises You’ll want to take action if you notice unusual noises when you press the brake pedal. Squeaking or squealing sounds often indicate worn-out brake pads, which need to be replaced before they wear down completely. Grinding noises can signal that the brake pads have worn away entirely, allowing metal-to-metal contact. This can cause significant damage to the braking system and should be addressed immediately. Soft Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, there could be air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake fluid. This symptom could indicate a brake fluid leak, which poses a major safety hazard, and means you should get towed to the shop instead of driving to it. Vibrations while Braking If you feel vibrations when you step on the brake pedal, it could be due to warped brake rotors. Rotors can become uneven due to excessive heat from heavy braking, reducing their effectiveness. Warped rotors cause uneven contact with the brake pads, leading to shaking and diminished stopping power. Car Pulls to One Side When applying the brakes, your car should come to a smooth, straight stop. If it pulls to one side, there may be an issue with a stuck caliper. This puts you and other drivers at heightened risk of an accident, making it important to address this problem as soon as possible. Brake Warning Light on Dashboard Your vehicle’s dashboard brake warning light is an important indicator that something is wrong with the braking system. This light can be triggered by problems like faulty wheel speed sensors and low brake fluid levels. If the brake light comes on, it’s important to have the system checked to prevent potential brake failure. Brake Repair in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto repair in Murfreesboro and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at  615-813-9970  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!