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Professional European Auto Repair Advice from The German Auto Doctor
Why Does My Car Only Leak Oil When Parked?
When someone reverses out of their garage and sees a stain, one of the first questions they ask is, “Why is my car leaking oil when parked?” This question is then quickly followed up by others, including, “Can you drive a car with an oil leak?” and even, “Wait, is that oil? “ If you’ve noticed your car leaking oil when parked, call Colony One Auto Repair today. We’ll answer your questions and...
Reasons Your Brake Lights Work Even When Your Taillights Don’t
Car troubles are something we all must encounter at some point or another. Sometimes these can be minor problems, while other times, they can cost you a pretty penny. So, it’s wise to keep an eye on issues your car is having before it becomes too big. The headlights and taillights are ones you should keep an eye on. Many of you might wonder why my brake lights work, but my taillights...
What Is Checked During Auto Inspection?
You know that your annual state inspection is necessary to keep your car legal and safe on the road, but do you know what’s checked during the inspection? An inspection involves 4 main sections: Vehicle and Driver Information Exterior Interior Engine Check Vehicle and Driver Information Before your car’s physical inspection begins, the mechanic will check your title, registration, and proof of...
Why Are Oil Changes So Important?
In Simi Valley, California, one of the most essential aspects of vehicle maintenance is the regular oil change. Ensuring that your engine’s moving parts are properly lubricated is crucial to avoid damage and extend the life of your vehicle. Over time, engine oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dust, dirt, and debris, compromising its ability to do its job effectively. An oil change in...
How To Make A Double Flare Brake Line
The main problem with the standard double flaring tool is that the die is not centered when it sits on the top of the end of the brake line and there is a much greater chance for error than for success. You can see in this picture that the die is not square with the surface of the tool and the yoke does not help much in the centering and squaring of the die. You need a good eye and a lot of...
What Do I Do If My Key Won’t Turn In The Ignition?
Ignition lock failure is not a common occurrence, but it can happen. This is usually apparent when you get into your vehicle, insert the key, and the ignition will not turn to start. In older vehicles, your key ignition system is entirely mechanical, from the lock cylinder all the way until the cylinder activates the ignition switch. On modern cars with keys, most are equipped with chip-keys...
How Do I Know If My Rear Drum Brakes Need To Be Replaced?
The majority of modern vehicles have disc brakes; however, some vehicles use drum brakes on the rear axle. Rear drum brakes also function as parking brakes. Rear drum brakes. The parking brake mechanism is connected to the rear drum brakes via parking brake cables. How long do drum brakes last? Drum brakes are known for their longevity. In some vehicles, rear drum brakes can last for up to...
How To Fix A Oil Seal Leak In Your BMW?
BMWs vehicles are outstanding pieces of engineering and artistry. High-quality vehicles that have shown customers time and time again that these cars are worth every penny of what you pay for them. However, with these German vehicles, it is still a working car does have a problem or two, one of which is the infamous alternator seal oil leak. Every mechanic who has ever worked on a BMW can tell...
5 BMW Repairs You Should Avoid Doing It Yourself
Whether you have a souped up 3 Series or a classic 507 Roadster, know when to hold them and when to fold them in terms of what repairs you can do on your own. If you are in over your head with your BMW repairs, don’t hesitate to contact us at The German Auto Doctor, because we specializes in this work. Avoid tackling the following BMW do-it-yourself projects at all costs: 1. Auto Body Work...
Car Maintenance And Service Checklist
When it comes to your vehicle, prevention is 1000 times better than cure. Basic upkeep is cheaper than major repairs caused by neglect. We wanted to put together a little checklist for you! For some reason, lots of people neglect basic maintenance on their car. Their philosophy is “Hey, it’s running, so what’s the problem?” The excuses never end: “I just don’t have the time.” “I don’t know...