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The Top Ten Most Common Vehicle Problems And ...

Owning a vehicle can be expensive so it helps to know what the  most common vehicle problems are and how to avoid them. At Hansma Automotive, we believe that preventative maintenance is the key to avoiding expensive vehicle repairs so contact us to avoid nasty surprises on the highway.

The Top Ten Most Common Vehicle Problems And How To Avoid Them

The Cruise Control Isn't Working - What Does That Mean?

Cruise control is a popular feature on most North American cars and it is a very useful feature for those longer road trips. But what if the cruise control isn't working? What does that mean? Is it dangerous to drive without it? We'll take a look at the possible causes and potential effects of a defective cruise control. How long does a cruise control last? It depends on each individual situation but most will last the life of the vehicle. Contact us at Hansma Automotive if you are concerned about a malfunctioning cruise control.

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Call or Text: 519-748-5533

info@hansmaautomotive.com

What Is Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a feature present on many modern vehicles that allows the vehicle to be driven at a constant speed without any force having to be applied to the accelerator pedal. Cruise controls have gone through many configurations over the years, with the most recent ones being purely electronically operated. Previous incarnations have been purely mechanical, vacuum operated, and electro-mechanical. The latest innovation is adaptive cruise control which allows the vehicle to maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead. All of the cruise control incarnations are designed not to interfere with the throttle control when they are not in use, or not functioning correctly. Bring your vehicle to our technicians at Hansma if you are unsure which type of cruise control you have.

How Does Cruise Control Work?

Essentially cruise control works by adjusting the throttle control position - which is what we do when we apply pressure to the accelerator pedal. The difference is that cruise control works by operating an "actuator" rather than by pressure to the accelerator pedal.

Why Might a Throttle Control Malfunction?

Below is a list of the most common problems encountered by cruise controls. If you are unable to determine the cause or lack time to diagnose the vehicle, don't hesitate to contact us at Hansma Automotive. We are a full service automotive repair facility.

Faulty Fuse 

Modern vehicles operate by electrical or electro-mechanical means. A faulty fuse means that the electrical circuit is not working properly. Your vehicle may simply need a new fuse. 

Defective VSS

The Vehicle Speed Sensor reads the speedometer and inputs the data into the computer. If this component is faulty, the cruise control will malfunction. If your speedometer does not seem to be providing the correct information, the VSS is the likely cause of the cruise control problem, not the cruise control itself. At Hansma, we provide general repairs to all makes of vehicles, including cruise control repairs.

Faulty Switch

If the brake pedal switch is not working correctly it may adversely affect the cruise control. If your vehicles brakes operate on the same switch as the cruise control, and your brake lights are not working correctly, the fault may lie in the switch. 

Defective Cruise Control Module

Your first clue to a defective cruise control may be an illuminated check engine light. Have a qualified professional run a diagnostic to determine if that is the problem.

 Faulty Vacuum Actuator

Older electro-mechanical systems have a vacuum actuator which can fail. This is usually due to a faulty diaphragm. If this is the case, the unit will require replacement. 

"Hansma Automotive is a top-notch service and repair centre. You can count on the job being done right at an honest and fair cost. It is good to see the integrity and dependability they display." - John

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What We Do At Hansma Automotive

If you notice any of these signs with your vehicle, then it is time to get your cruise control checked out by a professional. Come and see the experts at Hansma Automotive at 88 Shoemaker Street in Kitchener, Ontario. We will take a look at your vehicle and repair only what needs fixing. We have a reputation for honesty and quality service.

Sources:

How Cruise Control Systems Work

Cruise Control Is Not Working

Diagnose Cruise Control

My ABS Light Is On - What Should I Do?

The ABS Light on your vehicle is an important indicator of the status of your braking system. It is normal for the light to come on as you are starting your vehicle. However, if the ABS light comes on and stays on, there is a problem with the Anti-Lock Braking system. Although it may not be serious, it should be checked out as soon as possible by an expert. Contact us at Hansma Automotive if you have any concerns about your brakes.

What is A Crankshaft Sensor and When Should I replace it?

Most car owners are unaware that their vehicle has a crankshaft sensor or are aware what it does. However, it is an important vehicle component that may require attention in your car. In this post we provide a definition of a crankshaft sensor and describe some of the symptoms that alert you to its failure. Contact us at Hansma Automotive if you have any problems with your vehicle.

My Starter Motor Just Clicks. What Should I Do?

The starter motor is a very important component in your vehicle. If it fails, you are going nowhere. You depend on your vehicle every day. The last thing you want is for your starter motor to fail. But if it does, let the professionals at Hansma Automotive help you. If you suspect your starter motor is going, contact us to book an appointment today.

Auto Repair Shop Kitchener - Features of Our Shop

Not every auto repair shop is the same. We believe in providing the best possible customer service in the Kitchener area, so we have made sure that our auto repair shop is one of the finest independent locations in the city. Visit our location at 88 Shoemaker St in Kitchener and see what we mean. Here are some of the key features of our shop. Contact us for more information.

Suspension System Problems

Are you noticing suspension system problems with your vehicle? Don't ignore them. Your suspension system doesn't just give you a smooth ride, it also helps to keep your car in control. Damaged shocks can lead to a loss of control and be dangerous to yourself and others on the road. In this post, we will look at what a car's suspension system does and help you to recognize the signs that your suspension needs repairs.  If you think that your suspension needs maintenance, bring your vehicle to the experts at Hansma Automotive.

Why do I need an Ontario Safety Inspection?

I need to buy a used vehicle so why do I need an Ontario safety inspection? In Ontario you must, by law, obtain an Ontario safety standards certificate if you want to register a motor vehicle. If you require a safety inspection to get your safety standards certificate, then contact the professionals at Hansma Automotive.

Honda Accord Problems

With a reputation as a reliable car, Honda Accord problems have been quite low, nevertheless it has had its problem years - this despite consistently been a popular car in Canada, with sales ranking 13th in 2016 and 15th in 2015.  In this post, we will take a look at some of the more troubled years and their specific problems. Contact us if you are looking for a reliable auto repair facility for your Honda Accord.

Brake Repair Kitchener

Brake repair isn't something you want to leave to chance. In Kitchener you don't have to. Have the automotive experts at Hansma regularly check and maintain your brakes so that you can have peace of mind that they will always be in prime working condition especially in an emergency situation. Brake failure is one of the leading causes of accidents in Canada. But it doesn't have to happen to you; you can keep brakes in good working condition. Hansma Automotive is able to provide full brake maintenance solutions, as well as other vehicle maintenance solutions.

Ontario License Plate Stickers - All You Need To Know

Your birthday is coming soon and your mind is filled with party plans. But don't forget to renew your Ontario license plate sticker before you blow out your candles. If you are a first time vehicle owner or even if you a little rusty on the rules governing Ontario license plate sticker, then read on. In this post we will discuss why you need to renew, where you can renew, how long it lasts and how much it costs. If your vehicle requires a drive clean test or safety inspection before you can renew your stickers then contact the professionals at Hansma Automotive.

Toyota Camry Car Problems

In this post we will list some of the most common Toyota Camry problems as reported by Camry owners. If you need to repair your Toyota Camry in Kitchener or the surrounding area, consider Hansma Automotive. Listed below are some of the well known Toyota Camry problems that your vehicle may experience, including excessive oil consumption, erratic shifting and foul smells coming from the air conditioning.  Contact us today to repair your Toyota Camry.

7 Steps To Improve the Longevity of Your Vehicle

You've made a large investment in your vehicle, so it's important to do everything you can to make it last as long as possible. In this post, we have compiled 7 steps to improve the longevity of your vehicle. Extending the life of your investment can be as simple as having it detailed regularly,  checking the pressure of your tires, or getting regular oil changes. Contact us to schedule regular maintenance.

CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US TODAY

Call or Text: 519-748-5533

info@hansmaautomotive.com

"Hansma Automotive provides exceptional customer service every time. They communicate in a clear and friendly manner and then deliver great technical service!" - John
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1. Follow Your Vehicle's Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Read your car manual and take note of the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance for your cooling system, drive train, suspension and other components will help prevent costly repairs. It will also enable you to take advantage of the manufacturer's full warranty.

2. Keep Your Vehicle Clean
Regular washing and waxing of your vehicle will help to preserve the paint. It also will help protect against rust. And don't forget to clean the interior of your vehicle as well. Vacuuming will help to prolong the life of your carpet and upholstery. You can usually clean your vehicle inside and out in a couple of hours.  If you don't have time to detail your own vehicle have the professionals at Hansma Automotive do it for you.

3. Take Care of Your Tires
Your tires will last longer if you keep them properly inflated. Make sure you pay special attention as the seasons change. To prevent uneven or premature wear and tear, have them rotated as specified by the manufacturer and properly aligned. You can get your tires rotated and properly aligned in about 2 hours or less.

4. Make your Brakes Last Longer
Your driving style can affect the longevity of your brakes. If you are in the habit of speeding up and hitting the brakes hard when you need to stop, your brakes will wear down much faster than by timing your stopping, allowing the vehicle to slow down gradually before hitting the brakes. Not only will this style of driving help your brakes to last longer, but it will also cut down on your gas consumption.

5. Change Your Oil Regularly
Having regular oil changes will not only protect your engine but it will also improve your gas mileage. It is recommended that you change your oil every 5000 to 8000 kilometers or every 3 to 6 months. Regular oil changes could help your vehicle to last up to 320,000 kilometers or more. Make sure you change your oil filter at the same time. It's redundant to have clean oil going through a dirty filter and filters are relatively cheap to replace. You can usually get an oil and filter change for around $50 and it can be done in under an hour.  Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific recommendations.

6. Take Care of your Battery
Your car battery should last your a number of years, however, improper care can greatly decrease its lifespan. Make sure you keep your battery and it connections clean. If they are dirty, you can clean them with a tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in water. Avoid running accessories like your GPS, stereo, etc. for prolonged periods with the engine running. If you don't drive your vehicle for extended periods, you may want to keep it healthy by using a solar battery charger.

7. Windshield Wiper Care
Many people simply use their windshield wipers until they wear out, but there are some simple steps you can take to make them last longer. Once a month you can clean the rubber portion with denatured alcohol (91%). You could also clean them with very fine sandpaper (1000 to 2000 grit). This will keep the rubber flexible to help them adhere tighter to the glass. It is also good to remember that only the rubber portion of the wiper usually needs to be replaced, not the entire blade. Some blades can only be replaced in entirety, so check with an  automotive professional to see your options. Replacing your windshield wipers can be done in under an hour.

Hansma Automotive

Bring your vehicle to Hansma Automotive for its regular scheduled maintenance, which can usually be done in an hour or two. The staff at Hansma Automotive is always more than happy to assist you. If you are busy and don't have the time to wait around while your vehicle is repaired, you can take advantage of our handy shuttle service. Hansma Automotive is conveniently located at 88 Shoemaker Street in Kitchener, Ontario.

Sources

7 Ways to Make Your Whole Vehicle Last Longer From Wheels to Wipers
How to Extend the Life of your Car
Top 10 Tips to Maintain your Car
Windshield wiper photo By Wesha (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Car Battery photo By No machine-readable author provided. Shaddack assumed (based on copyright claims). [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.

Car Squeals When Turning - What Should I Do?

If you notice that your car squeals when turning, you probably have a problem with your power steering system. It could be caused by low power steering fluid; a worn or loose belt; or a failing power steering pump. Your power steering system helps you to control the wheels while you are steering by using hydraulic or electric actuators (a type of small motor). If your vehicle has a hydraulic system, a belt connected to the engine powers a hydraulic pump. This pump send fluid to a cylinder which helps you turn the steering wheel. If your vehicle has an electric system (which is common in newer vehicles), an electric motor helps you turn the wheel. If your power steering isn't working, then turning the wheel, especially at lower speeds becomes very difficult. If you are not sure about what is causing the squealing noise contact us for a professional assessment.

My Engine Sounds Like A Race Car - Should I Be Worried?

You're happily driving down the street and suddenly you hear an unfamiliar engine noise that is making your car sound like a race car. What could be causing it and should you be alarmed? In this post we will take a look at five common engine noises and discuss what might cause them as well as some possible solutions. If you hear an unusual noise and suspect that there might be a problem and you are not sure what it is, bring it to us. Our professional mechanics will have a look at it and then provide you with expert service to solve the issue.