Bryan Auto Repair

This is an often overlooked safety and fuel saving maintenance item that anyone can do themselves. First locate the valve stem and remove the cap. Check the tire for the manufacturers recommended pressure. The car manufacturer will normally print this on the door jam as well. Sometimes they are different, in that case, I always side with the tire company. They made the tire and they should know. You will need a tire pressure gauge at this point. Press the gauge on the valve stem until you get a reading. Never run a tire less than 5 psi from the max pressure. An under inflated tire wastes fuel, wears tires, and runs very hot. If it is too high depress the schrader valve in the middle of the valve stem to release some air. If it is too low find a compressor and inflate the tire in a similar way as you checked tire pressure. If you are unsure about any of these instructions feel free to stop by B&B Automotive Services and we will be happy to teach you to do it yourself, or we will che ... read more

This is a great question with a tough answer. The check engine light or service engine soon light monitors anything the engine control module keeps up with. That is a ton of stuff! It is important to get it tested, because many things it monitors can cause bigger problems, if left in disrepair. Somethings are not as critical. For example, a light on due to an air/fuel ratio sensor can cause big problems with expensive catalytic convertors, but a loose gas cap…not as critical. The problem lies in not knowing if it is critical, until it is checked. We always recommend at least getting a diagnostic test run so you can make the best plan to fix your car and get that pesky check engine light turned off!! Hope this helps a bit! Thanks for reading Ask the Barnes Brothers! B&B Automotive Services where we treat you like family