Most modern vehicles employ an anti-lock braking system to prevent the driver from losing steering control while applying the brakes. The system comprises speed sensors attached to each wheel, valves, a pump, and a controller, which allows the driver to steer the vehicle while applying the brakes. When any system component fails, it affects the proper functioning of the ABS, resulting in hard braking, erratic brake behavior, and unusual noise while braking. Before discussing the symptoms of a failed ABS, let's examine the ABS components and how they help the driver maintain steering control while braking. The Anti-Lock Braking System Pump: The pump is also known as the modulator or Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU). The pump comprises valves controlled by solenoids, an electrical engine, and a base connecting brake hoses. The [...]

Coolant leaks are one of the major problems with car engines, and your BMW is not an exception. A vehicle's coolant system is responsible for pumping vital fluids from the radiator to the engine, thereby cooling the engine block and system. This prevents it from overheating at high operation temperature or during severe winter weather. How do you check your coolant? Your BMW's radiator, water pump, and other coolant components are responsible for keeping your engine cool. For this system to carry out its function properly, it requires owners to keep up with the coolant levels. Next to the radiator, there is always a recovery system known as the coolant reservoir, and it holds an extra supply of coolant to the car system. Most vehicles have their coolant reservoir small black tank located to the left side of the engine. If any of the hoses, pump parts, or gaskets sealing the coolant inside begin to leak, it [...]

When it comes to fun, powerful, budget-friendly cars, the MINI always comes to mind. MINIs offer their drivers a combination of unique design and incredible performance. With that, MINIs also develop faults after an extended period of use. One of such parts susceptible to faults after is the fuel gauge. The fuel gauge may fail over time, giving inaccurate or no reading due to faulty sending units, electrical issues, or an issue with the indicator. Discussed below are symptoms and causes of a faulty fuel gauge in your MINI. The Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge is one of the most important parts of any vehicle. To a large extent, this gauge determines whether you reach your destination or become stranded on the road. This simple yet essential instrument helps monitor your fuel level and inform the driver through the fuel gauge located on the dashboard. This way, you can kn [...]

Every vehicle's engine gets hot when in consistent use, and the heat can destroy your car's engine and other parts under the car's hood if it is not kept at the optimum temperature. Your Porsche's cooling system because it balances the temperature of your engine and keeps it regulated. Plastic coolant pipes are pathways through which the coolant passes in order to reduce the heat in Porsche's unique engine bay. These coolant pipes are responsible for the temperature regulation by removing the heated coolant and circulating it through the radiator. This reduces the temperature of the liquids before the entire process happens again. This process occurs repeatedly while your engine is on. There are various parts of a plastic coolant pipe, so let's take a look at this important component of your engine cooling system. Component of a Plastic Coolant Pipe Water pump: The water pump is what pushes the coolant thr [...]

The air-oil separator in your Porsche is an integral part of the vehicle. Its function is also quite complex. In a high-end luxury car like Porsche, one of the problems a driver might experience is an air-oil separator failure. This component splits the air from the oil that goes into the intake manifold of your engine. A vehicle like your Porsche is equipped with one of the finest engines available. Its quality and engineering is second to none, and it is usually dependable for many years. However, as with all machinery, your Porsche can develop some mechanical issues with time. This is where problems with the air-oil separator come in. You may have never heard of an air-oil separator before, but not to worry. We’ll be giving you a concise breakdown of all the things you need to know about your Porsche’s air-oil [...]

BMWs may experience fuel pressure regulator failure for a number of reasons. The fuel pressure regulator is an extremely important component in BMWs to keep them on the road and out of the repair shop. Below, you will learn more about the typical causes of fuel pressure regulator failure in BMW and what to do should your vehicle experience failure of this intricate part. What is a fuel pressure regulator? The purpose of a fuel pressure regulator is just as it sounds, it regulates the pressure of the fuel as well as the amount of fuel being sent to fuel injectors on automobiles that are equipped with direct injection. The amount of fuel that an engine needs is dependent upon the driving habits of the driver. For a vehicle to start, ignition within the combustion chamber must be ignited by the most appropriate air to fuel ratio with the help of the fuel pressure regulator. When this part begins to fail, the fuel mixture become [...]

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve is a vehicle component that emerged in the 1960s out of the need to tackle the problem of blow-by gasses generated by a vehicle's engine. Interestingly, the introduction of the PCV valve coincided with the period in which the production of Minis began. Hence, Minis were one of those vehicles with PVC valves as a component right from the start. The PCV valve is essential in your Mini. Without it, you will fail emissions tests because this valve removes otherwise toxic and harmful gases from the engine. Notwithstanding Mini’s reliable and sturdy design, they are still susceptible to wear and tear after a long period of use, including the PCV Valve. Hence, drivers must closely monitor their vehicle’s for any damage that might affect the PCV Valve. Why is Your Mini's PCV valve failing? Some of the major factors that may cause your PCV valve failure include: Constant Use Like other vehicle [...]