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Signs Your Local Car Dealer Needs to Look for a Faulty Ignition Coil

A car's ignition coil transforms your low voltage power into the thousands of volts needed to create an electric spark in the spark plugs, igniting the fuel. When this crucial part fails, your vehicle's performance can severely deteriorate, and fast. It's easy to overlook the signs of a problem: or just ignore those signs for a bit too long. However, paying attention to subtle changes in your car's behavior can really pay off in the long run. If you see signs of a faulty ignition coil, get it to your car dealer right away to prevent expensive repairs down the line.

Difficulty Starting the Engine

One of the earliest warning signs of a failing ignition coil is a problem with starting the engine. You might find that your car takes longer to start or doesn't start at all. A bad ignition coil fails to provide the necessary spark for combustion, hence the struggle to start the engine. This failure can result from wear and tear, improper voltage, or heat damage over time.

Stalling and Rough Idling

Another sign to watch out for is engine stalling or rough idling, especially for manual transmissions. An ignition coil in decline can cause sporadic and uncontrolled sparks. These irregular sparks lead to incomplete fuel combustion, causing your engine to run unevenly, or idle roughly. You might notice the car stalling when you stop at traffic lights or while shifting gears. This symptom is attributable to the irregular sparks affecting the engine's RPM during gear changes.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

You might observe a sudden drop in your car's fuel efficiency. This dip in fuel economy happens when a failing ignition coil causes incomplete combustion in the engine, leading to excessive fuel consumption. Your car has to work harder and consume more fuel to deliver the same level of performance.

Engine Misfires

Lastly, engine misfires are a telltale sign of a failing ignition coil. Misfires occur when one of the engine's cylinders doesn't function correctly, leading to erratic performance. An ignition coil that doesn't consistently deliver the right amount of voltage can cause this issue. The engine may run smoothly one moment and stumble the next, which can be particularly noticeable during acceleration. Difficulty starting the engine, stalling and rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine misfires are all indicators that something might be amiss with your ignition coil, and addressing these issues promptly can save you from potentially much higher repair costs and ensure a smooth and reliable ride. Come see us at Duncan Suzuki right away if you suspect anything is wrong with your ignition coil.
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5 Benefits of Getting OEM Parts From Your Local Used Car Dealer

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Do You Need New Tires From Your Local Car Dealer?

Navigating the roads with confidence starts with knowing you have good tires. If you're pondering whether your car, truck, or SUV needs tires, you're taking a step in the right direction. Here are some signs that you might need to visit your local dealer for new tires. Tread Depth The most straightforward way to assess tire health is to examine the tread depth. A common method is the penny test. Insert a penny with Lincoln's head facing down into the tread. If the entirety of his head remains visible, the tread depth is below 2/32 inch, and it's time to replace your tire. more Uneven Wear Patterns Uneven wear indicates that there might be an issue with your vehicle's alignment, suspension, or even with the tire itself. Look for patterns such as cupping, patchy wear, or feathering. Any of these suggest that the tire isn't contacting the road uniformly, which can compromise safety and efficiency. Frequent Loss of Pressure If you find yourself needing to refill your tires with air more frequently than usual, it may be indicative of small punctures or leaks. While occasional air top-ups are normal, consistently low tire pressure could signify a larger issue. Sidewall Cracks The sidewall of your tire can provide a lot of information about its health. Tiny cracks may start appearing on the sidewall, which can eventually grow larger. This breakdown compromises the structural integrity of the tire and increases the risk of a failure. Sidewall Bulges Bulges or blisters on the sidewall are typically caused when the internal frame of the tire is damaged, allowing air pressure to reach the outer layers of the tire. The result is a protruding bubble. Driving with a bulging tire is dangerous, as it's a weak spot under high internal pressure. This spot can burst, leading to sudden loss of control at higher speeds. Excessive Vibration While some vibration is normal, especially on poorly paved roads, if your vehicle starts to shake more than usual, it could be an indication of an internal problem with the tire. It might be a misalignment issue, or a tire could be damaged from the inside. Age of the Tires Tires, even if rarely used, have a natural life span. Rubber degrades over time, and this process can be accelerated by factors like heat, sunlight exposure, and temperature changes from summer to winter and back again. Generally, it's recommended to consider tire replacement every six years, regardless of their appearance. Your vehicle deserves the utmost care to ensure safety and optimal performance. Contact Duncan Suzuki today for tires if you're noticing any signs that your old ones are on the way out.

How Can You Find Quality Auto Parts?

Finding quality auto parts is vital in maintaining your vehicle's optimal performance and longevity. These automotive components, whether sourced directly or from a used car dealership, should be of high quality to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Our factory-trained technicians will discuss how you can effectively source quality vehicle parts to meet your automotive needs. When it comes to car maintenance or repairs, quality motor vehicle parts are non-negotiable. One reliable source of high-quality parts is authorized dealerships. But why are these dealerships trusted, and how can you effectively navigate your purchase with them? An authorized dealership boasts official recognition from an auto manufacturer. This recognition grants the dealership the right to sell the manufacturer's vehicles and spare parts. more One major advantage of this setup is the dealership's direct access to all Original Equipment Manufacturer's (OEM) parts. OEM parts are designed to fit and function seamlessly with the specific make and model of a vehicle. Therefore, when you purchase parts from an authorized dealership, you acquire components precisely designed for your car's needs. Identifying and Locating Authorized Dealerships Finding authorized dealerships is easier than it might sound. A simple way is to use the manufacturer's website. Most auto manufacturers have a “dealer locator” tool on their website that allows you to find authorized dealerships nearby. All you need to do is enter your location, and a list of the nearest authorized dealers will be displayed. While the dealership locator is a good starting point, it's wise to verify the dealership's authorization independently. You can do this by checking the dealership's website for authorization badges or logos from the manufacturer and cross-checking this information with the manufacturer. Navigating Your Purchase at Authorized Dealerships The pricing at authorized dealerships may seem a little steep compared to aftermarket parts. However, remember that you're not just paying for the part; you're also paying for the guarantee that comes with it. OEM parts are often accompanied by warranties that cover defects and performance issues. Communicating effectively with the staff at the dealership can make your buying experience smoother. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the part you need, its compatibility with your vehicle, warranty information, and any other concerns you might have. Can a Used Car Dealership Be a Good Source of Quality Parts? Despite the dealership focusing on used cars, it may also offer new, high-quality parts, especially if it's an authorized dealership. As mentioned earlier, the best way to determine if a used car dealer is authorized to perform service, maintenance, and sell parts is by directly checking with the auto manufacturer. At Duncan Suzuki, we take pride in being an authorized dealership endorsed by the manufacturer. Call Duncan Suzuki today for any inquiries or needs related to quality motor vehicle parts, service, and maintenance.