Common Issues that Cause the Check Engine Light to Turn On

Your vehicle's cooling system plays a critical role in maintaining engine temperature and preventing overheating. When any part of this system malfunctions, it can quickly lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. Staying aware of common cooling system problems can help you act quickly. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are four cooling system issues that should be addressed as soon as possible. Coolant Leaks One of the most common and potentially dangerous problems is a coolant leak. If your car is losing coolant, it may struggle to regulate engine temperature properly. Leaks can develop in locations such as the radiator, hoses, and water pump. Puddles of brightly colored fluid under your vehicle or a low coolant reservoir level are signs that a leak may be present. Ignoring a coolant leak can lead to overheating and severe engine damage, so it’s important to have the source of the leak found and fixed right away. Faulty Thermostat The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator. When it fails, it can become stuck in the closed position, preventing coolant from circulating and causing the engine to overheat. On the other hand, if it gets stuck open, the engine may run too cool. If you notice erratic temperature gauge readings, a faulty thermostat may be to blame and should be replaced as soon as possible. Radiator Problems The radiator is responsible for dispersing heat from the coolant. Over time, radiators can become clogged with debris or corroded, reducing their effectiveness. If your engine frequently overheats or if the radiator appears damaged, it needs to be inspected immediately. A failing radiator won’t properly cool the engine. Broken Water Pump The water pump is essential for circulating coolant throughout the engine and radiator. If it fails, the coolant won’t move through the system efficiently, causing the engine to overheat. Symptoms of a failing water pump include a whining or grinding noise. Since a water pump failure can quickly lead to serious engine trouble, it’s crucial to have it addressed as soon as problems arise. Cooling System Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

A healthy braking system is essential for safe driving, and any issues with your brakes should be addressed immediately. Worn-out or failing brakes can lead to dangerous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. If you notice unusual behavior when braking, it may be time for a professional inspection. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five signs that you need brake repair. Unusual Noises When Braking Squealing, screeching, or grinding sounds often mean that your brake pads are worn down. Many brake pads have built-in wear indicators that create a high-pitched squeal when they need to be replaced. If you hear a grinding noise, it could mean that the brake pads are completely worn out, causing the metal components to rub against each other. Ignoring these sounds can lead to costly damage to the rotors. Warning Light on the Dashboard Many modern vehicles have brake warning lights that illuminate when there is an issue with the braking system. If the brake warning light or ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light appears on your dashboard, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. This could indicate problems like low brake fluid or failing wheel speed sensors. Even if you don’t notice any immediate issues with braking performance, a warning light should never be ignored. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, this is a serious sign of a braking system issue. A properly functioning brake pedal should feel firm and responsive. A soft pedal may indicate air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. With leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety hazard and should get towed to the shop. Car Pulls to One Side When Braking When braking, your vehicle should come to a smooth and straight stop. If your car pulls to one side when you press the brake pedal, it could mean that one of the brake calipers is sticking. Any imbalance in braking performance can make it harder to control your vehicle and should be addressed promptly. Vibrations When Braking If you notice vibrations when you apply the brakes, this could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Over time, excessive heat and wear can cause the rotors to become uneven, leading to noticeable vibrations when braking. Ignoring this issue can lead to reduced braking efficiency. Brake Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

At All Tune & Lube, we strive to earn our customers’ total satisfaction by consistently completing flawless repairs and maintenance at fair prices. Whether you need an engine rebuild or an oil change, our experienced mechanics will work meticulously to get the job done right. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “I have been going to All Tune and Lube for 5+ years. They don’t force any unnecessary repairs on me. They are honest, fast and efficient.” —Yvonne M. “I've been taking my vehicles to All Tune for years now. Everyone is like family and I trust that whatever needs to be done,will be done right. They always give me options and work with me to stay within a budget when I need to. From the daily driver to my weekend rider, I trust the guys at All Tune with all my repair needs.” —Richard W. “All Tune and Lube is always reliable, fast, and reasonable. Both my wife and I go there and trust the business completely.” —Leon W. “All Tune is always on time and efficient. They give you the best deal they can and are customer oriented.” —Connie B. “All Tune and Lube was recommended by a friend and now I will be recommending it to friends too. The service was thorough, the folks were friendly and the price was very fair. I’ll be back.” —Marvin J. “Wow! I received same-day service. My dealership quoted me a price for axle replacement, but Auto did the job for $800 less. I dropped off my car, and Mark quickly called me back to explain what was needed and provided an estimated cost. By 4:30 PM, it was ready! I hope the mechanic stayed warm—I happened to choose one of the coldest days in Austin for my service. When I arrived at 6 PM, right at closing, Mark still took the time to explain the issue and how it was fixed. Thank you for your excellent service! I’ll be recommending you to everyone. In fact, I found out about you through a friend who goes to All Tune Auto.” —Melinda N. Auto Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Your vehicle’s suspension system plays a crucial role in maintaining a smooth and controlled ride. It absorbs shocks from the road, keeps your tires in contact with the pavement, and helps with steering stability. When your suspension starts to fail, it can affect both comfort and safety. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent bigger problems. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here’s a look at five signs of suspension trouble. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps If your vehicle bounces excessively after hitting a pothole or speed bump, this is a strong indication of a suspension issue. The suspension system is designed to absorb impacts and keep the car stable. Worn-out shocks or struts lose their ability to control movement, causing the vehicle to continue bouncing rather than settling quickly. If your car feels overly bouncy, it's time to have the suspension inspected. Uneven Tire Wear A failing suspension system can lead to uneven tire wear, which compromises traction and handling. If you notice bald spots or inconsistent tread wear patterns on your tires, it could mean that your suspension isn’t properly distributing the weight of the vehicle. Misaligned wheels, worn-out shocks, or failing suspension components can all contribute to this problem. Addressing suspension issues early can help extend the life of your tires. Drifting If your car feels like it’s drifting when making turns, this could indicate a suspension problem. A properly functioning suspension system keeps the vehicle stable and balanced, allowing for controlled turns. Worn or damaged suspension parts can cause excessive body roll, making the vehicle feel unsteady. This can be particularly dangerous when navigating sharp curves. A Rough/Uncomfortable Ride One of the most obvious signs of suspension trouble is a noticeably rough ride. If you start feeling every bump and dip in the road more than usual, your shocks or struts may be failing. These components help absorb bumps. When they wear out, the car loses its ability to dampen road vibrations, leading to an uncomfortable ride. Nose Diving When Braking When you apply the brakes, your vehicle should slow down smoothly without excessive forward movement. If the front of the car noticeably dips downward while braking, this is a sign of worn-out suspension components. A failing suspension system reduces the car’s ability to maintain balance under braking, which can increase stopping distances. Suspension Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Transmission fluid plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle's transmission system running smoothly. It lubricates, cools, and enables seamless gear shifting. A leak in the transmission system can quickly lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of a transmission fluid leak can save you from expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five signs that your transmission fluid might be leaking. Puddles of Reddish Fluid Under Your Vehicle One of the most obvious signs of a transmission fluid leak is spotting a puddle of reddish fluid underneath your vehicle. Transmission fluid is typically bright red when new and turns brownish as it ages. If you notice these stains on your parking space, it's a strong indication that your transmission system is leaking fluid. Ignoring this can lead to low fluid levels and significant transmission damage. Difficulty Shifting Gears Low transmission fluid levels caused by a leak can make it difficult to shift gears smoothly. You might notice hesitation, slipping, or jerking when trying to change gears. In automatic transmissions, the fluid is essential for maintaining hydraulic pressure, and without it, the system cannot function properly. Unusual Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is never a good sign, and it can often indicate overheating transmission fluid. When fluid levels drop due to a leak, the remaining fluid works harder to keep the transmission cool, leading to overheating. This may lead to long-term damage to the transmission. Unusual Noises While Driving A healthy transmission operates smoothly and quietly. However, when fluid levels drop because of a leak, you may hear unusual noises such as grinding, whining, or clunking. These sounds commonly indicate that the transmission components are not being properly lubricated. If you notice these noises while driving, it’s crucial to address them ASAP. Slipping Transmission A slipping transmission is another clear sign of low transmission fluid caused by a leak. You may notice your vehicle unexpectedly changing gears, a loss of power during acceleration, or a delay in movement when you press the gas pedal. These symptoms indicate that the transmission isn't receiving enough fluid pressure to function correctly. Transmission Repair in Austin, TX For auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

The alternator is a critical component of your vehicle's electrical system, responsible for charging the battery and powering electrical accessories while the engine runs. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to a variety of issues and may even leave you stranded. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five signs that your alternator is failing. Dim or Flickering Lights One of the most frequent symptoms of alternator trouble is dim or flickering headlights. The alternator powers your car's lights, and if it’s not functioning properly, the lights may not receive consistent voltage. This issue can also extend to interior lights and dashboard indicators, making it harder to see during nighttime driving. Battery Warning Light on the Dashboard Most modern vehicles are equipped with a battery warning light on the dashboard, often resembling a small battery icon. While this light commonly indicates a problem with the battery, it can also signal an issue with the alternator. If the alternator isn't producing enough power, your car’s electrical system will rely on the battery, eventually draining it. Electrical Malfunctions A failing alternator can cause various electrical components to malfunction. Common signs include power windows operating slowly, the radio system cutting out, or power seats not working right. As the alternator struggles to distribute power, these systems might fail intermittently or altogether. Dead Battery A bad alternator can lead to a drained battery. If your car has trouble starting or the battery frequently dies even after being charged, the alternator might not be charging it properly. While a dead battery is not always caused by the alternator, a professional inspection can determine the root cause. Strange Sounds Unusual noises coming from under the hood could point to alternator issues. A grinding noise may indicate worn bearings inside the alternator, while a whining sound might suggest problems with the alternator belt. These sounds should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Regular oil changes are one of the simplest yet most important tasks you can do to keep your car running smoothly. While it may be tempting to push off your next oil change, sticking to the schedule can make a huge difference in the longevity and performance of your vehicle. At All Tune & Lube, we provide full-service oil changes in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are four reasons why you should always follow your oil change schedule. Prolong Engine Life Oil is the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It lubricates all the moving parts, reducing friction and heat buildup. As the miles add up, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at doing its job. If you skip oil changes, the engine parts will experience greater wear and tear, which can lead to costly damage. By changing your oil on schedule, you help keep the engine in top condition and extend its lifespan. Improve Fuel-Efficiency Dirty oil makes the engine work harder to perform. This extra strain can reduce your car’s fuel-efficiency, leading to more frequent trips to the gas station. Fresh oil helps ensure that your engine operates more efficiently, saving you money on fuel in the long run. Maintain Optimal Engine Performance As it ages, oil collects debris and contaminants, which can clog your engine’s components and reduce its performance. By regularly changing your oil, you help ensure that your engine remains clean and operates at its best. You may notice smoother acceleration and fewer performance issues when you stick to your oil change schedule. Prevent Expensive Repairs Failing to change your oil on time can result in serious engine damage. When oil is contaminated or too low, it can’t properly lubricate the engine’s moving parts, which can cause parts to wear out prematurely. In severe cases, neglecting oil changes can lead to engine failure, resulting in extremely expensive repairs. A simple oil change is much more affordable than a major engine overhaul. Full-Service Oil Change in Austin, TX When you need auto maintenance in Austin, TX and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When the check engine light illuminates, it's often a source of anxiety for drivers. While it doesn’t always indicate a major issue, it's important to address the underlying problem as soon as possible to avoid further damage. At All Tune & Lube, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Austin, TX area. Here are five common reasons why your check engine light might come on. Faulty Oxygen Sensor If an oxygen sensor fails, the engine’s computer won’t get accurate readings about the air-to-fuel ratio, leading to poor fuel-economy and potentially causing catalytic converter problems. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor is an easy fix, but ignoring it could lead to more costly repairs. Loose or Damaged Gas Cap Believe it or not, a loose or damaged gas cap is one of the more common reasons the check engine light comes on. A gas cap that doesn’t seal properly may allow fuel to evaporate before it is directed to the engine. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting exhaust gasses into less toxic pollutants. As the miles add up, it can become clogged or fail. A failed catalytic converter can lead to decreased fuel-efficiency and increased emissions, so it’s essential to address this problem right away. Mass Airflow Sensor Failure The mass airflow (MAF) sensor monitors the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the proper fuel-to-air ratio. If the sensor fails, your car may experience poor fuel-economy, difficulty starting, or rough idling. Replacing a bad MAF sensor can improve engine performance and fuel-efficiency, so it’s important not to ignore this issue. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Problems Ignition coils and spark plugs work together to ignite the fuel in your engine. Over time, spark plugs can wear out, and ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires, reduced power, and poor fuel economy. Check Engine Light Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

At All Tune & Lube, we aim to earn our customers' satisfaction by offering top-quality repairs and maintenance at fair rates, all while providing friendly service. No matter how big or small the job, our local mechanics will diligently complete it to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “My car care team has to be honest, friendly, professional, and fair. Those qualities are why Kevin and Keith are my guys. I have been with them since they started their business and wouldn’t think of taking my car anywhere else. From maintenance to engines to brakes to tires to AC’s, they do it all. Thanks fellas! All Tune and Lube is the best!” —Amy E. “All Tune goes above and beyond with their customer service and care, and I cannot recommend them enough. I was on the way to an appointment at All Tune recently, when my car broke down at a major intersection about a mile away. I called to let them know that I wouldn’t make it, and instead of just saying “ok,” they went out of their way to come help me. They arrived within 5 minutes. They calmed my nerves, talked to me about what was likely wrong, and towed my car to the shop. Fixing the car would’ve cost almost the same amount as buying a new one, so All Tune even helped me find someone that would pay for the scraps. I’m so grateful for this shop.” —Alexandra L. “Honest and straightforward service. I will ALWAYS take my family cars to All Tune!” —Brendon N. “Hands down best car shop I have been to. My kids recommended them and I drove from New Braunfels. It was worth it. Great service. Fixed an AC issue 2 other places couldn’t figure out. An honest mechanic is hard to come by. Worth the drive for me.” —Ken W. “Good workshop, good service, and good prices.” —Jose F. “Nice folks! In and out quickly and they do great work!” —Teddy E. Auto Repair in Austin, TX When you need auto repair in Austin and the surrounding area, contact All Tune & Lube at (512) 836-6724. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!