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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a pothole damaged my car?
Ask yourself: Is your car pulling either to the right or left while driving on a straightaway? Are you experiencing difficulty with steering the vehicle? Are your tires wearing unevenly or prematurely? Do any of your wheels have a dent? Do you have to air-up one or two of your tires frequently? If you answer yes to any of the above, then it’s possible that pothole caused some form of damage.
Why fill tires with nitrogen instead of air?
By reducing the percentage of oxygen, water vapor and other gases in your tires from 22% to 7% or lower, your tires will maintain proper pressure longer than if you use “plain old air.” For example, with 95% nitrogen in your tires, they retain optimal pressure three to four times longer.
Carbon buildup on valves - What is it & how do I clean it?
Carbon build-up is a common issue with direct-injected engines like those in modern BMW and Audi models that is an accumulation of carbon deposits on the engine cylinders’ intake valves. A carbon clean method called “walnut shell blasting” is used to safely and effectively clean carbon build-up.
What is an extended warranty & should I get one?
Nobody likes unexpected expenses for auto repairs, if you want peace of mind and like to save money, an extended warranty is a great way to accomplish both. An extended warranty is essentially a service contract between the car owner and the warranty company. According to this contract, the warranty company will pay for the covered repairs for a specific period of time. An extended warranty can help you protect yourself from unexpected repair costs.
What is the difference between Mustang Dynos vs. Dynojet Dynos?
Simply put, Dynojet numbers are usually inflated and Mustang numbers are closer to “true” horsepower numbers. Mustang dyno numbers are more accurate because it takes in to account the variables for each different car. A dynojet just measures how fast the car spins a large drum that is a certain weight and calculates HP from that. A Mustang dyno could be higher than a dynojet, but that is rare.
Why is my low coolant warning light coming on?
Your car has a floating-level which rises and falls with the coolant level in your radiator. As the level falls below a critical amount of coolant in the radiator or expansion tank, required to keep the engine from overheating, the system triggers a warning to alert you. A lot of the time, the coolant level is low because of a leak somewhere.
How long should it take for my car to cool down?
If your car is parked under the sun all day, the temperatures are most likely well over a 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Presuming your car’s A/C is working properly, it should take around 5 to 10 minutes before you can start feeling comfortable. Read more below to find out the quickest way to cool down your car’s interior.
What are the benefits of frequent oil changes?
Simply put, frequent and routine oil services for your European car are one of the most inexpensive ways to ensure that your investment has a long-living power plant under the hood. Never skip an oil change!
When should I get my oil changed?
Proactive maintenance = a healthy car!
At AUTOSCOPE, one of our core beliefs is that being proactive towards car repair and service prevents break downs and helps to reduce unexpected repair costs. By performing proactive maintenance and inspecting the vital systems on your car regularly, this will show those early warning signs that a trained professional sees on a daily basis, and can spot very quickly on a routine check.
Helpful Foreign Car Owner Articles
Most Common HVAC Issues In Mini Coopers
In the height of summer, sometimes the only relief you can get is from taking a drive in your cool, air-conditioned Mini Cooper. But what if your Mini Cooper’s HVAC system suddenly begins to experience issues? While the HVAC system in your car could mean issues with...
Is it Safe to Drive While My BMW’s Transmission is Leaking?
The most vital elements of your vehicle include the engine and the transmission which, while separate parts, work in tandem with each other so you can enjoy a smooth and safe drive. But, when problems arise with your transmission, such as a transmission leak, it’s...
What Makes a BMW “High Performance”?
For many BMW owners, high performance is high on the priority list. In fact, BMW has been a consistent leader in the market of high-performance cars and has offered many options that excite the high-performance car enthusiast. But for many others, the idea of high...
Is a Pre-Purchase Inspection Necessary?
If you’ve purchased a few cars in your lifetime or you know someone that has, you’ve likely been witness to the unfortunate car buying phenomenon: purchasing a lemon. A lemon is the term that refers to a vehicle that turns out to have several manufacturing defects...
How Does a Dirty Air Filter Affect My Audi’s Performance?
As you take your Audi on the road day after day, it protects you and essential elements of your vehicle from much of the debris and outside conditions, keeping you comfortable and your car in good condition as you commute. Much like a cabin air filter keeps the...
BMW Service Over The Years
When I bought my first BMW, it was a 1988 535i. The maintenance schedule was straightforward but regimented. It was in appx 7k increments (based on fuel economy) The first service was an "oil service," and then the next service was an Inspection service. BMW figured...
What is A/B Service on a Mercedes? – It’s Not Just an Oil Change!
A premium vehicle means the potential for a premium driving experience. From interior comfort to amplified horsepower and smooth driving, vehicles from Audi, Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, MINI Cooper, Bentley, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Rolls-Royce are premium in every way....
How Does a Dyno Test Work?
When you purchased your European vehicle, it’s likely that horsepower was a factor in your decision. Not only do you want to get from A to B, but you also want an enjoyable driving experience, which means having power when you press the gas pedal. How do you know if...
How Does A Blown Head Gasket Cause Overheating?
If you’ve never had your vehicle experience overheating before, it can be quite alarming when you’re out on the road. If your vehicle is pouring smoke or vapor out of its hood, that is the number one tell-tale sign that your car is overheating. But what is the cause...