Insufficient Oil

One of the most common reasons for engine knocking is insufficient oil. When the oil level in your engine is too low, it can cause parts to rub together and create a knocking sound. To prevent this from happening, make sure you check your oil levels regularly and top off as needed.

Incorrect Fuel

Another reason for engine knocking can be due to incorrect fuel. If you are using fuel that has a low octane rating or is contaminated, it can cause the air-fuel mixture in your cylinders to detonate in more than one place at a time — resulting in a knocking sound. Be sure to use the correct type of fuel recommended by your manufacturer.

Bad Spark Plugs

Bad spark plugs can also lead to engine knocking. Over time, spark plugs will wear out and need to be replaced. If they are not replaced when needed, they can misfire. This may lead to an uneven air-fuel mixture, ultimately resulting in a knocking noise coming from the engine.

Bad Belt or Tensioners

If you hear a rattling noise coming from your engine when running, it could mean that the belt or tensioner has worn out or broken down over time. This can cause other components, such as pulleys or alternators, to come into contact with each other and create a knocking sound when running. 

It’s important to have these inspected regularly by an experienced technician at Rob’s Automotive, so any potential issues can be identified early on before they become more serious problems down the road.

Faulty Knock Sensor

A faulty knock sensor can also be the culprit for loud noises, poor performance, and decreased fuel economy. The knock sensor detects vibrations caused by detonation in the cylinders. It sends signals back to the engine control unit (ECU), which adjusts timing accordingly in order to prevent further damage from occurring due to detonation. 

If this sensor fails or becomes damaged over time, it won’t be able to detect vibrations. As a result, you’ll end up with additional issues with your vehicle’s performance and potential damage if left unchecked for too long.

Damaged Crankshaft

The crankshaft is responsible for converting rotational energy into linear motion, which helps power your car’s wheels forward when driving down the road. If this part becomes damaged due to wear and tear, it can lead to an imbalance within the cylinders. You’ll probably hear a loud knocking noise coming from under the hood when driving at higher speeds or accelerating quickly after starting up from idle speed. 

It’s important that any issues with this part are addressed immediately by an experienced technician at Rob’s Automotive before further damage occurs.

Rob’s Automotive: The Area’s Leading Service and Collision Center

At Rob’s Automotive, we understand how important it is for our customers’ vehicles to run smoothly all year long without any unexpected surprises along the way. We’re certified by 24 major auto manufacturers and have the experience to provide repairs on any type of vehicle. 

From heavy-duty truck repairs to towing services throughout the Philadelphia area, Rob’s Automotive has you covered! If you ever find yourself needing help with anything related to automotive service and repair work, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

The post 6 Reasons Why Your Engine Is Knocking appeared first on Robs Auto.

Before we get started, keep in mind that this blog is meant to serve as a guideline for important maintenance services. However, you should always consult your owner’s manual for the mileage milestones that are specific to your vehicle’s make and model. Each vehicle is manufactured with different parts and equipment, so these numbers can vary.

3,000 – 10,000 Miles

The make, model, and age of your vehicle play a big factor in determining your first mileage milestone. Older vehicles that run on regular oil will need to be serviced as early as 3,000 miles, while those that use a synthetic oil blend will need to be serviced at 5,000 miles. 

Most newer vehicles, on the other hand, can drive 7,500 or 10,000 miles between oil changes. Upgrades in engine manufacturing require modern cars to use synthetic or pure synthetic oil, which is known to last longer and perform better. 

Again, these mileage milestones are not set in stone. Your driving habits have a great impact on how often you will need to change your oil. For example, if you are constantly driving in stop-and-go traffic, you will probably need to visit an automotive shop more often. 

During your first service, you should: 

• Change your oil
• Rotate your tires
• Check the tire pressure
• Top off any low fluids

15,000 – 40,000 Miles

Your second mileage milestone focuses on filters: the air filter, the cabin air filter, and the fuel filter. 

Many car owners don’t realize the important role that air filters play in the well-being of their vehicles, but they are the key to keeping harmful debris from damaging the engine. Experts recommend changing the air filter around the 15,000 mile-mark to prolong the engine’s lifespan, increase fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions. If you live in a polluted or dusty area, expect to replace this part more often. 

Whereas air filters are designed for your vehicle’s performance, cabin air filters are designed for the driver’s and passengers’ health and safety. Cabin air filters trap and eliminate dust, pollen, bacteria, exhaust gas, and other pollutants from reaching the vehicle’s interior. In short, they provide clean air for everyone in the vehicle. That is until they reach 15,000 to 30,000 miles, after which they become ineffective and need to be replaced promptly. 

The fuel filter should be replaced between 20,000 to 40,000 miles. Much like air filters, fuel filters are designed to trap particles and impurities found in the fuel. This will maximize fuel efficiency, boost engine power, and reduce emissions.  

Additionally, most manufacturer warranties expire at or around 36,000, which can reduce the resale value of the vehicle. 

50,000 – 60,000 Miles

By the time your vehicle reaches this mileage milestone, some of its most important parts will most likely be worn out and ready for replacement. Check out the following infographic to learn more. 

75,000 – 90,000 Miles

The last mileage milestone covers a few simple but nonetheless important services. 

First, it’s important to flush and replace your power steering fluid. Although the power steering fluid is sealed, meaning it doesn’t get used up, it can still get dirty from years and years of sitting in a container. It only needs to be replaced once or twice in the vehicle’s lifetime, and it provides a lot of benefits. 

Also, check and replace any burned spark plugs during this time. In most modern cars, spark plugs made of iridium or platinum can last up to 90,000 miles — sometimes even more! New spark plugs will help your engine perform at peak efficiency and purr like a kitten. 

When your vehicle hits its next milestone, don’t forget to stop by Rob’s Auto in Bristol for a quick tune-up! Our car and truck repair service experts are certified by 14 different manufacturers, so you can be sure your baby is in the best possible hands. 

Contact us today to set an appointment!

The post 4 Mileage Milestones for Your Car appeared first on Robs Auto.

Before we dive into this article, let’s first take a look at how your car’s air conditioner works. 

Low Refrigerant 

If your car’s air conditioner is blowing out hot air, it’s probably due to low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant is the chemical that runs throughout the AC system, removing excess heat to create a cool climate in your car’s interior. When there’s not enough refrigerant in circulation, your air conditioner isn’t powerful enough to remove the heat. As a result, the inside of your car is sweltering hot. 

Refrigerant levels only drop if there’s a leak in the system. Leaks are most commonly found at the AC unit hose connections, but they can also appear in other places, like the compressor, condenser, or evaporator. However, because refrigerant often changes from a liquid to a gaseous state as it cycles through different parts of the air conditioner, identifying the exact location of the leak can be quite challenging. This task should only be handled by a professional who has access to the right tools and technologies. They can quickly find the leak, patch it up, and recharge the AC system with more refrigerant.  

Broken Compressor

The compressor is hailed as the heart of every air conditioner system since it has one of the most important jobs — circulating and compressing the refrigerant. Without a functioning compressor, the refrigerant can’t flow throughout the rest of the system and remove indoor heat. Your cooling fans will just blow out whatever temperature air is available instead. 

Little to no use of your car’s air conditioning is actually the most common cause of compressor damage. When the compressor stays dormant for too long, starting it will shock the system, leading to a breakdown or, at the very least, cutting down on its lifespan. How can you avoid this? By running your AC system for 15 minutes at least once a month, even in the winter. 

Clogged Condenser 

By now, you know that the condenser is responsible for cooling down the liquid refrigerant, so it can continue cycling throughout the AC system. A clog in the condenser will prevent this from happening. When hot refrigerant is what’s running through your air conditioner, hot air is what you’ll get as a result. If you can find the condenser under the hood of your car, you should be able to see whether there’s any debris creating a blockage. 

Otherwise, your condenser may be altogether broken. This could happen for a number of reasons, from faulty equipment to a puncture caused by road debris. You’ll need a professional to conduct a thorough inspection. 

Faulty Cooling Fans

The cooling fans work alongside the condenser to cool down the hot liquid refrigerant. Any cracks or damage to them will leave the refrigerant hot and unable to cool down your car properly. Since they are not the sturdiest of materials, the cooling fans can be damaged by all types of road debris. Luckily, it’s a quick fix by our automotive repair service professionals in Bristol, PA! 

Electrical Issues

As is the case with many car troubles, the hardest problem to diagnose is an electrical problem. Your car has tons of small electrical connections that keep the AC system, among other things, running smoothly. If any wires get damaged or frayed, it could shut down a vital component of the AC system. The challenging part is finding all the obscure or hidden wires so they can be repaired or replaced. 

But no matter which part of your AC system is causing you to suffer through the hot weather, one thing is for sure: you need to get that looked at by a professional ASAP. We don’t want you to be uncomfortable while driving or, even worse, start speeding with the windows down to get some relief from the hot air. Just bring your car to Rob’s in Bristol, PA, where we perform automotive and heavy-duty truck repairs. 

As one of the few shops certified by over 14 automobile manufacturers, you can rest assured that your vehicle will receive expert care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

The post 5 Potential Reasons Your Car’s Air Conditioner is Not Working appeared first on Robs Auto.

Here are a few things we are doing to make sure everyone stays healthy and safe in the workplace and on our service calls:

• All our work trucks are equipped with the use of safety glasses, gloves, face masks, paper towels, and disinfectants; and we are taking precautions to clean our tools and equipment.
• Our buildings and equipment are sanitized and disinfected multiple times throughout the day.
• We have instructed any and all employees that if they do not feel well they are not to report to work and stay home.
• If we don’t shake your hand, we mean no offense. We just want to minimize the spread of germs to keep everyone healthy while maintaining the appropriate social distance.
• We are in continuous communication with our employees, reminding them about the importance of good hygiene and providing them with health education and support whenever needed.
• Our office is set up to work with insurance adjusters through virtual estimates through Facetime.
• We offer free Pick-up and Delivery of our Customer’s Automobiles to minimize your exposure to public areas.
• We offer virtual payment options so that you do not have to come in to pay for your services.
• We continue to communicate with our vendors and suppliers, who have notified us that they are still open.

The entire team here at Rob’s Automotive and Collision Center, Inc. is dedicated to serving you, but we need your help! If you or anyone in your home or business are experiencing flu-like symptoms and have a scheduled appointment, please let our customer care professionals know so that we can discuss options with you to ensure our collective well-being.

We are grateful for your continued support and patronage and promise to keep you informed of any updates as they come. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

The post Rob’s Automotive and Collision Center, Inc. is Here for You During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak appeared first on Robs Auto.

What Are OEM Parts?

As the name would suggest, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are produced by the same manufacturer that designed and built your car. This is the same equipment that was installed in your car when you first drove it off the lot. 

When it comes to making parts for repairs or replacements, nobody does it better than the original manufacturer. Although similar car models have most of the same parts and accessories, it doesn’t mean each part doesn’t have a different configuration. After all, what works in a Toyota doesn’t work in Mercedes. 

What Makes Them Better?

Unless your car is really old and you’re just trudging along until you have saved up enough money to buy the car you really want, OEM parts should be your top choice. Take a look at our infographic to see how aftermarket parts compare to OEM parts. 

What About Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts, also known as off-brand parts, are made by third-party manufacturers. We refer to these manufacturers as a jack of all trades, master of none. Whereas Original Equipment Manufacturers are experts in the production of parts for their specific car brand, aftermarket manufacturers try to produce as many different car parts for as many different car makes and models as possible. They produce in bulk and sell in bulk, which is why you’ll find that off-brand parts are usually much cheaper. 

Not all parts and accessories produced by aftermarket manufacturers are bad, but they can’t hold a candle to the quality, performance, or life expectancy of OEM parts. They simply just get the job done for the time being. 

If you’re looking for the highest quality repairs at affordable prices, you won’t regret scheduling an appointment with our auto repair and collision experts in Bristol, PA. We are certified by 14 major manufacturers. What that means is that your repair is in the best hands. Contact us today to schedule a service. 

The post Are OEM Parts Really Worth It? appeared first on Robs Auto.

Oil Change

By far, the most requested car service we see in our automotive repair service shop of Bristol, PA, is an oil change. Oil changes are one of, if not the, most important aspect of car maintenance. You know you have to get your car serviced every 5,000 miles, but do you know why? Your car has thousands of internal components that need constant lubrication to function smoothly. Otherwise, parts will wear down, overheat, and suffer from damage.

Air Filter Replacement

Every time you get behind the wheel, your car starts the combustion process under the hood. If you remember chemistry class from your high school or college days, you know that oxygen is one-third of the combustion process. As your engine draws in oxygen, the air filters prevent other debris from entering the engine and destroying vital internal parts. However, the filter picks up a lot of dust and grime in the process. If too much dirt accumulates on the filters, it will prevent sufficient amounts of air from reaching the engine, thus hindering your engine’s performance.

Check Engine Light Service

Nothing is quite as scary as seeing your check engine light unexpectedly turn on. The good news is that this doesn’t always mean the damage is centralized to your engine. Sometimes, it could be something as small as a loose fuel cap to a burnt-out sensor. Should you experience a check engine light, the trained professionals at Rob’s can scan your vehicle to determine the cause.

Brake Replacement

Unless you want to be a road hazard to yourself and others, you need to replace your brakes when they get worn down. As a general rule of thumb, brakes should be replaced every 50,000 miles. However, this number can fluctuate based on your driving habits, the road conditions, and the quality of your current brake pads and rotors.

Spark Plug Replacement

Your vehicle needs three things to start the internal combustion process: fuel, oxygen, and heat. Spark plugs provide electricity to burn fuel, giving your engine life. When your spark plugs wear down, your engine’s performance is negatively affected. That’s when your car misfires, idles, accelerates slowly, or starts consuming too much fuel.

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is imperative to the lifespan of your tires because it has a significant impact on their performance. Learn more about the three aspects of wheel alignment from our infographic below.

Battery Replacement

You never want to find yourself stranded because your car won’t start. But, that’s usually what happens when its battery dies. High-quality car batteries can last up to five years with proper care and maintenance. If you notice that your battery becomes distorted in shape, starts leaking acid, or needs to be jumped frequently, it’s time for a replacement.

Tire Repairs or Replacement

Just like everything else on this list, your tires are a crucial aspect of keeping yourself and others safe on the road. When your tires start balding, they have less traction on the road, which makes braking more difficult, not to mention one of the first signs is you feel that your vehicle drives differently. Learn all about tire maintenance and replacement conditions by reading our last blog here.

Windshield Wipers Replacement

Your windshield wipers are probably at the bottom of your maintenance list, until you’re stuck in a downpour without a clear view of the road. If the roads are already dangerous from nasty weather conditions, the last thing you need is to compromise your safety even further. Windshield wipers are a quick and extremely affordable replacement that can enhance your road safety.

Loose Fuel Cap Repair or Replacement

Whether you forget to twist your fuel cap tight enough or a screw comes undone, a loose fuel cap will alert your car that something is wrong. Don’t panic when your dashboard lights start flashing incessantly. Try tightening the cap and waiting for your system to reset itself. If your car doesn’t reset itself, your fuel cap may be damaged to the point that it’s not sealing properly. If that’s the case, we can quickly replace it for you.

Need to schedule a car or truck repair in Bucks County, PA? You’ve come to the right place! Rob’s Automotive Center is certified by 14 manufacturers to provide premier vehicle services. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

The post Top 10 Most Common Car Repairs appeared first on Robs Auto.

How Often Should I Replace My Tires?

The short answer is: it depends. The quality of your tires, the extent to which they are maintained, and the number of miles you drive in a given day, are only a few factors that need to be considered when considering tire replacements. The more you drive, the more frequently you’ll be looking at tire replacements because your current set will wear out more quickly. That’s not to say that just because you don’t take long-distance trips every day that you can keep the same set of tires forever.

Most tires have a life expectancy of 25,000 to 50,000 miles, at which point they need to be replaced to keep you and your vehicle safe on the road. Where you fall on that spectrum depends on the brand of tires you’re currently using. However, that mileage is not set in stone. If your tires are always exposed to rough conditions, such as gravel roads or poor driving habits, you’ll probably need to change your tires more frequently. 

Even if your miles aren’t racking up because your car doesn’t see the light of day very much, tires can become old and worn. Weather conditions, among other environmental factors, can affect tires regardless of whether they’re being used or not. That’s why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that drivers change their tires every four years. 

What is Tread Wear and Why Do I Need to Worry?

The main reason why tires need to be replaced is that the tire tread wears down. Tire tread refers to the grooves and ridges built into the rubber that are designed to grip the road and give your car traction. As you’re driving, the rubber will wear down until the tread disappears. 

You never (we repeat, never) want to be driving around with bald tires, or tires that have little to no tread, because your car won’t have proper traction. Bald tires are more likely to cause you to hydroplane and lose control of your vehicle on wet or icy roads. You’ll also find that it takes longer to break when your tires are balding, so you may lose out on the precious few seconds that could prevent an accident. We’ll be giving you this same speech if you end up at one of our collision repair centers near Morrisville, PA.

What Symptoms Should I Be Looking For?

If you’re unsure what condition your tires are in, or you know they’re due for an upgrade soon, don’t risk it — bring your car to Rob’s — especially this time of year. Otherwise, you may find yourself stuck in Morrisville, PA, and in need of our towing company!

To speak with a representative or schedule an appointment, please call (215) 826-9200.

The post Are New Tires in Your Near Future? appeared first on Robs Auto.

Why Does Cold Weather Affect Car Batteries?

When the temperatures drop, the number of vehicle breakdowns surge. Battery failure is one of the most common consequences as the cold weather puts more stress on the battery and reduces its performance as a result. Most cars are powered by a lead-acid battery, also called a standard flooded battery. This particular battery depends on the chemical reaction between the acid and lead plates to provide power. Freezing temperatures significantly slow down or completely stop this process from taking place. If the battery is impacted enough, it will lose charge and be rendered useless. 

What Drains My Battery the Most?

If you’re thinking ahead to preserve your battery’s life, you’re doing the right thing. Just like being on your phone, every action we take while we’re in our vehicles will drain the battery. However, some operations have more impact than others. The biggest culprits are using interior lights, having a defective alternator, and taking excessive short drives. 

Using up the battery when there’s no need is the fastest way to deteriorate its lifespan. That’s exactly what happens when you leave the car lights on overnight. This dilemma is more prevalent in older cars, as newer models have built-in features that automatically turn lights off once your vehicle is locked. 

A defective alternator can also be responsible for the untimely death of your car battery. While you’re driving, the alternator is supposed to recharge the battery and supply power to your car’s electrical components. If the alternator isn’t functioning properly, your battery’s power will be exhausted. 

Finally, believe it or not, short drives can be a perpetrator of your battery’s early demise. During a short drive, your alternator may not be able to recharge your battery adequately. Over time, the battery will drain away and you’ll be left calling us for towing services from our Bristol, PA, location. 

Now’s the Time to Save Your Car Battery

Neither you nor your battery wants to be stuck in the cold this winter. Bring your vehicle to your local Rob’s Automotive center for a full-service inspection. We are certified by 14 major manufacturers to repair and maintenance your vehicle to the highest automotive standards. Call (215) 826-9200 to schedule an appointment today!

The post HOW COLD WEATHER IS A CAR BATTERY KILLER appeared first on Robs Auto.

The holiday season is officially here! Thanksgiving is notorious for being the busiest travel holiday of the year, and our team at Rob’s Automotive & Collision Center would like to make sure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for any holiday travel plans. 

Here’s what you need to know in order to prepare your vehicle before you visit family and loved ones over these next several weeks.  

Expect Thanksgiving Congestion

Each year, AAA releases statistics about how many Americans will be traveling during the holiday season. For 2019, AAA projects that 49.3 million travelers will hit the roads this Thanksgiving, 2.8% more than last year — the most since 2005!

If you are one of the 49.3 million Americans planning on making a Thanksgiving road trip this year, global transportation analytics company, INRIX, warns that travel times in major cities could see drive duration nearly quadruple. If you are planning to head to any big cities this holiday season, you need to ensure your car is prepared for all types of circumstances. 

How to Prep Your Car For Holiday Road Trip

Whether it’s the expensive cost of airline tickets or the close proximity to your family, many people will opt to pack up the vehicle and travel via the roads this holiday season. As the leading collision center in Bristol, PA, and other nearby areas, we’d like to share some important actions that you should consider taking before venturing off this Thanksgiving. 

Making sure all of these elements are in good condition or filled to the proper level are critical to ensuring safe holiday travels. We also recommend packing an emergency kit — who knows when it might come in handy?

Rob’s Automotive Always There To Help

This holiday season and all-year-round, our towing center in Bristol offers 24-hour live dispatch emergency road service and much more. If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of being stuck on the side of the road, don’t forget to contact our team. Whether you need flat tire repair, jump-starts, towing, or any other road service or auto collision repair in Bristol, PA, give us a call at 215-826-9200. No emergency is too small or large for us to handle.

Stay safe and have a happy holiday!

The post WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVELING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON appeared first on Robs Auto.

When is Deer Season?

Deer season is when mating is most prominent among bucks and does. Their romantic pursuits start around October and last all the way until December. However, November is considered the peak mating season by many wildlife officials. During their fall rut, deer have a tendency to run into roads and oncoming traffic as they chase each other around. Their sudden sprinting is the cause of many automobile accidents during the fall months. Those who live in residential or rural areas should be alert for deer activity during the early mornings and the fall of dusk. 

How to Stay Safe During Deer Season

• Stay Vigilant: Most deer are active from dusk to dawn, which is when drivers should be extra cautious. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seatbelts and that you’re driving the posted speed limit. 
• Turn On Your Headlights: The classic deer in headlights cliche could help you avoid an impending deer collision. 
• Follow Road Signs: Deer crossing signs were put in place to warn drivers that the road is especially busy with deer activity. If you come across one of these signs, slow down and drive cautiously.
• Not All Deer Travel Alone: If you spot one deer, there’s a good chance more will follow. Drive safely to ensure you won’t hit any of them.
• Don’t Swerve: If a collision is imminent, it’s best not to swerve. Swerving could cause you to end up in an accident with oncoming traffic, drive off the road, or meet the deer you tried to veer on the other side. Instead, brake firmly. 

What If I Hit a Deer?

If you hit a deer, your first step of action should be to check that all of your passengers are safe and sound. Then, contact the local authorities to send help your way. You’ll also want to get in touch with your insurance company and file a claim. If you live or frequently drive in an area that’s densely populated with deer, you should strongly consider comprehensive car insurance, so you don’t have to pay for any potential car damages out of pocket.

It’s important for you to know that you’re not required to get your car repaired at the direct repair facility recommended by your insurance company. In fact, you can pick your own trusted automotive body shop — specifically, one certified by many major manufacturers, so your repair will be held to the highest standards.

Finally, get in touch with a Rob’s Automotive representative to handle your claim from start to finish on your behalf. We aim to return your car to you in pre-accident condition! Our auto repair services are available for Newtown, PA residents as well as those living in the surrounding counties. You don’t have to face this deer accident alone — call us today for all of your auto repair needs. 

The post Doe-n’t Drive Carelessly During Deer Season appeared first on Robs Auto.