Few things are as frustrating as getting into your car, turning the key, and discovering that it won’t start. While it’s easy to assume the worst, many starting issues are due to common problems that can often be fixed quickly. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, our local mechanics are experts at diagnosing and fixing issues that cause no-start. Here are four common reasons that cars won't start up. Dead Battery One of the most frequent causes of a car not starting is a dead or weak battery. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, especially if they’re old or haven’t been used for a while. Cold weather can also sap a battery’s power. If the engine doesn’t turn over and you hear a clicking sound, the battery could be the issue. Jump-starting the car or replacing the battery should fix this problem. Faulty Starter The starter is an essential part of your car’s ignition system, responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key. A faulty starter can prevent the engine from cranking, leaving you stranded. Symptoms of a bad starter include a single loud click or no sound at all when trying to start the vehicle. If this is the case, the starter will likely need to be repaired or replaced. Fuel System Issues Cars need fuel to start and run properly. If your vehicle is out of gas or has a fully-clogged fuel filter, the engine won’t receive enough fuel to ignite. Also, a failing fuel pump can also prevent the necessary fuel flow to the engine. If you notice your car sputtering or losing power before it dies, a fuel issue could be the cause. Faulty Spark Plugs Spark plugs ignite the air/fuel mixture in your engine to start the combustion process. If the spark plugs are worn or faulty, they won’t produce the necessary spark, and your car won’t start. You might also experience misfiring, rough idling, or poor fuel-economy if your spark plugs are failing. Fortunately, replacing spark plugs is a relatively simple and affordable fix. Auto Repair in Plymouth, MI For auto repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Your vehicle’s transmission relies on fluid to stay properly lubricated and cooled. If your transmission fluid levels drop due to a leak, it can lead to serious problems, from poor performance to costly repairs. To protect your transmission, it’s important to know the signs of a transmission fluid leak, and take action ASAP if you notice any indications of one. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide expert transmission fluid leak repair in the greater Plymouth, MI area. Here are five warning signs of a transmission fluid leak. Puddles Under Your Car Transmission fluid is typically a reddish color. If you notice puddles of this fluid collecting beneath your car, it’s a strong sign of a leak. Addressing this issue quickly is crucial, as running low on fluid can cause severe transmission damage. Slipping Gears A slipping transmission is a common sign of low fluid levels caused by a leak. If your vehicle is slipping out of gear or struggling to stay in gear, this could be due to insufficient transmission fluid. When fluid levels are low, the transmission doesn’t receive the necessary hydraulic pressure, which can result in this issue. Grinding or Clunking Noises Unusual noises, such as grinding or clunking sounds, often indicate a problem with your transmission. If the fluid is leaking and the transmission isn’t properly lubricated, these metal components may start to grind against each other. Left unaddressed, this can lead to extensive wear and tear on your transmission, potentially requiring a rebuild or replacement. Delayed or Rough Shifting Another common symptom of a transmission fluid leak is delayed or rough shifting. If you notice that your vehicle hesitates or struggles when shifting gears, it could be because the transmission fluid is too low. Leaks can prevent the fluid from building up the necessary pressure to smoothly engage and disengage gears. Overheating Transmission Transmission fluid helps to cool down the transmission as it operates. If there’s a leak, the lack of fluid can cause the transmission to overheat. With this issue, you may notice a burning smell coming from your vehicle. If the transmission overheats for long, it can suffer severe damage. Transmission Repair in Plymouth, MI When you need transmission repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!