Integrity Auto Care Blog

Few things are more frustrating than getting into your car, turning the key, and realizing it won’t start. Whether you’re dealing with a weak crank or complete silence, a car that won’t start can be caused by several different issues. At Integrity Auto Care, our local mechanics can diagnose your no-start problem and then expertly fit it. Here are four common reasons that a car won't start. Dead Battery A dead battery is one of the most frequent reasons why a car won’t start. Your car’s battery provides the electrical power needed to start the engine, and if it’s drained or too old, it won’t have enough charge to turn over the engine. If your battery is the culprit, jump-starting the car may get it running temporarily, but a replacement may be necessary if the battery is too weak to hold a charge. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for engaging the engine when you turn the key. When the starter is failing, you might hear a clicking noise but the engine won’t turn over. If you suspect the starter is the issue, it’s best to have it inspected by a mechanic to determine if it needs to be replaced. Fuel System Issues Your car needs fuel to run, and if there’s a problem with the fuel system, the engine won’t start. A clogged fuel filter, bad fuel pump, or empty gas tank can all prevent fuel from reaching the engine. If your car cranks but doesn’t start, it may not be getting the necessary fuel to ignite. Fuel system issues can cause poor acceleration and decreasing gas mileage. Failing Alternator The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. If the alternator is failing, your battery won’t recharge properly, leading to starting problems. Signs of a bad alternator include dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, and electrical issues like flickering interior lights. Auto Repair in South Beloit, IL When you need auto repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at  (815) 957-4159  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Seeing the check engine light illuminate on your dashboard can be concerning, as it signals that something is wrong with your vehicle. While some issues may be minor, others require immediate attention to prevent further damage. At Integrity Auto Care, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater South Beloit, IL area. Here are five common causes of an illuminated check engine light. Faulty Oxygen Sensor Oxygen sensors monitor the level of unburned oxygen and help regulate the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. Over time, this sensor can become dirty or fail, causing incorrect readings that affect fuel-efficiency and emissions. A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to poor gas mileage and increased emissions, so replacing it promptly is important. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor The mass airflow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine to ensure the proper air-to-fuel ratio. If the sensor is dirty or fails, the engine may receive too much or too little fuel, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and poor fuel-economy. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can cause the check engine light to turn on, and replacing it can restore proper engine function and efficiency. Failing Catalytic Converter The catalytic converter plays a critical role in reducing harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful compounds. If it becomes clogged or fails, your vehicle’s performance may suffer, and emissions will increase. A failing catalytic converter can lead to reduced acceleration and poor fuel-economy. Replacing a damaged catalytic converter is necessary to maintain proper engine function and meet emissions standards. Bad Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils Spark plugs and ignition coils are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. When they wear out or fail, misfires can occur, leading to reduced power, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine. A check engine light caused by faulty spark plugs or ignition coils should be addressed quickly. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap One of the simplest reasons your check engine light might come on is a loose or damaged gas cap. The gas cap seals the fuel system If it’s not properly tightened, fuel may evaporate before you get the chance to run on it. Check Engine Light Repair in South Beloit, IL When you need check engine light repair in South Beloit and the surrounding area, contact Integrity Auto Care at (815) 957-4159. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!