Auto repairs can be daunting for the average person. Most of us are not familiar with the technical terminology and advanced technology used by today’s automotive service shop technicians. To find a trustworthy, professional mechanic here in the Mesa, AZ area that will take the time to answer all your questions and concerns in laymen’s terms and explain each service is invaluable. Following is an outline of a few common auto repair services and terms that you might encounter. This may help you become familiar with some of the concepts used at your auto repair shop.

Computerized Diagnostics

Engines in modern vehicles are computerized and a bit complex to understand. Federal regulations require new vehicles to use electronic engine control systems to control carbon emissions and increase fuel efficiency. Today, advanced control systems take the place of simple engine components making old tune-up services less important and computerized analysis an important part of maintaining your vehicle. Regular services such as oil changes, new spark plugs, and filter replacements are still necessary, but the overall auto repair environment has completely changed and requires service by well-trained technicians.

Alignments

There are many reasons your car to go out of alignment. Most vehicles need an alignment after a collision of any kind. Even a minor collision can cause damage to your car’s frame. Sometimes even less significant things such as driving through a pothole or grazing a curb can cause the problem.

If you have trouble steering or notice unusual wear on your tires, it is probably time for an alignment. Driving without proper alignment decreases gas mileage and the life of your tires and adds stress to your car’s steering equipment and structure. A misaligned vehicle pulls and drives away from a straight road and can put you at risk. If your tires have excessive wear due to poor alignment, this can lead to tire blow-outs and poor traction.

Check Engine Light

We have all been there. The check engine light comes on and you have no idea why. This does not have to be disturbing, but it should not be ignored. Letting the check engine light warning go unchecked for too long can lead to problems down the road. The Check Engine Light (CEL) shows you that your auto’s computer has found a problem in your emissions control system. This can be something as simple as your gas cap is not on tight enough or it can mean there is water in the engine somehow or your spark plugs are not functioning properly. It takes an electronic scan tool or a diagnostic computer to determine the actual problem. So, when you see “check engine”, “service engine soon” or a red engine picture light come on, visit your auto repair shop for a quick diagnostic test to fix the problem and eliminate future issues.

These are just a few of the basic services available for your vehicle. Finding a trusted mechanic to handle all of these routine issues as well as more critical repairs is vital to ensuring optimal performance for your car. The best practice is to find a dependable and honest auto repair shop in Mesa, AZ before your need important services. Visit Network Automotive Service Center today. We are located at 104 E. Main Street Mesa, AZ 85201. We can be reached at (480) 649-0839. We would be delighted to serve you.