The axle seal is a circular piece of material that prevents leaking at the axle entry point while allowing the axle to rotate freely. If this part breaks, it can cause all sorts of problems for your transmission system. Here are a few signs and symptoms to watch for: Oil Stains On Your Driveway Puddles […]
Understanding your exhaust system and emissions test can seem like a pretty daunting task, but when you break it down it’s pretty easy. Environmental regulatory agencies focus on four types of engine emissions: carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. As more focus is placed on health and environmental issues, governmental agencies throughout the […]
Even the most reliable cars malfunction from time to time. And, in those moments, drivers face the ominous question, “Do I need to see the mechanic?” If your vehicle running differently than it normally does, you should always take it in to get a diagnosis. Here are a few common indicators you should call your mechanic […]
At V&F Auto, we’re proud to be the best local auto repair shop in Agawam, MA. Since 1988, our family-owned and operated service center has been providing top-quality auto repair services to our community. At V&F, our team is hyper-focused on making sure your car avoids costly repairs and breakdowns—and helping you get back on […]
While most heat shields will last the life of the vehicle, they can still be susceptible to failure. Heat shields wrap around the exhaust manifold; they’re designed to direct heat out of the engine the exhaust and protect vulnerable engine components from under the hood and potentially causing damage. With the extreme stress they’re under, […]
Perhaps you’re driving behind a quarry load and, despite your best efforts to hang back, a rock knocks your windshield leaving behind a nasty crack. Maybe a severe storm pulled debris down onto your hood or brought down some nasty hail, damaging the glass on your car. No matter how it’s damaged, any cracks on […]
This article was originally published in November 2018. For most drivers, seeing light smoke or vapor trailing your car is a normal occurrence. But, if you see different colored exhaust fumes, it’s time to pay attention to your engine. Your vehicle may not be flashing warning lights, but the smoke coming from your exhaust can […]
Each CV joint is covered by a rubber or plastic boot, known as a CV boot or drive axle boot. These boots are responsible for keeping the CV joints lubricated and preventing dirt and water from getting in. What happens when a CV boot becomes damaged? When a CV boot leaks, it can cause the […]
If you hear a noise from your brakes, you should make an appointment to come in right away—instead of turning up the radio to drown out the noise. Here’s why: What causes brakes to make a “grinding” sound? There are 2 major causes of brake grinding. If the grinding sound occurs when you press on […]
A rattling exhaust can be both annoying and nerve-racking. Rattling in the exhaust is a common cause of heat shield issues, which can cause permanent damage to your vehicle. Here are some of the other common signs to watch for: 1) Excessive Heat from the Engine Bay Modern engines generate considerable amounts of heat, just […]