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Common Causes of Loud Cooling Fan

Overheating Engine

Loose Blades And/Or Debris

Failing Fan Motor Or Bearings

Failing Fan Clutch (Mechanical Fans)

Cooling System Maintenance & Repair in The Salt Lake Valley

If you’ve noticed that your vehicle’s gas mileage has dropped, you’re not alone. Many drivers are surprised when they suddenly find themselves at the pump more often than usual. A drop in miles per gallon can lead to more than just increased fuel costs, it can signal an underlying issue with your car that might need attention.

Understanding the reasons behind poor fuel economy can help you save money and prevent larger mechanical problems down the road. Let’s look at some of the most common causes of low MPG and what you can do to address them.

Tire Issues

One of the simplest and most overlooked causes of decreased fuel efficiency is your tires. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to keep the car moving. This directly reduces your MPG. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so it’s a good idea to check them regularly. Misaligned or worn tires can also drag down fuel economy by increasing friction and reducing handling efficiency.

Driving Habits

The way you drive plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Sudden acceleration, hard braking, and speeding all put extra demand on your engine. Consistent, smooth driving can boost your MPG significantly. Idling your vehicle for long periods is another common habit that burns fuel without getting you anywhere. Avoid excessive warm-up time, especially with modern engines that don’t require much idling.

Engine Problems

When your engine isn’t operating properly, it often uses more fuel to compensate. Worn spark plugs, clogged fuel injectors, or malfunctioning oxygen sensors can all cause inefficient combustion. If your check engine light is on, it’s best to have it diagnosed promptly. Many issues that affect performance also hurt fuel economy.

Air Filter and Fuel System

A clogged air filter restricts airflow into the engine, making it harder for the engine to “breathe.” Without enough oxygen, your car can’t burn fuel efficiently, leading to lower MPG. Replacing a dirty air filter is a quick and affordable fix. Similarly, a dirty fuel system, especially the fuel injectors, can interfere with the proper fuel-air mixture, reducing combustion efficiency.

Old Motor Oil

Oil lubricates your engine and reduces friction. As oil ages, it becomes dirty and thick, making your engine work harder. This not only increases fuel consumption but can also cause long-term engine wear. Following your vehicle’s recommended oil change interval helps maintain both fuel economy and engine health. Using the right type of oil, particularly one labeled as “energy conserving” or “fuel efficient,” can also make a difference.

Excess Weight and Drag

Extra weight in your vehicle reduces MPG. Carrying around unnecessary items in the trunk or installing roof racks and cargo carriers can weigh down your vehicle and increase wind resistance. Roof boxes in particular can significantly reduce aerodynamic efficiency at highway speeds. Remove them when not in use, and travel as light as possible.

Short Trips and Cold Starts

If most of your driving consists of short trips, especially in colder temperatures, your engine may not reach its optimal operating temperature. Cold engines burn more fuel, and short trips don’t allow the vehicle to warm up enough to run efficiently. Combining errands into one longer trip can help improve MPG by keeping your engine warm and operating efficiently for a longer period.

Fuel Quality

Not all gasoline is created equal. Low-quality fuel may not burn as cleanly, leading to carbon deposits and reduced engine efficiency over time. While top-tier gasoline may cost a bit more, it often includes detergents that keep your fuel system cleaner, supporting better fuel economy.

Transmission and Drivetrain Issues

A slipping transmission or other drivetrain issues can sap your vehicle’s power, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. If you notice sluggish acceleration, strange noises, or jerking while driving, it may point to a mechanical problem that’s also reducing your MPG.

Climate Control Use

Running the air conditioner puts additional strain on your engine, particularly in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic. While you don’t need to suffer in the heat, try using the A/C more sparingly or relying on the ventilation system when driving at lower speeds. In cold weather, seat warmers and defrosters can also draw extra energy, though their impact is usually less significant than A/C.

Powertrain Service & Repair in The Salt Lake Valley

Low MPG is more than a financial concern, it’s a sign that something in your vehicle isn’t running as efficiently as it should. By paying attention to your car’s behavior and keeping up with routine maintenance, you can improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your vehicle.

Don’t let efficiency issues linger and cost you more at the pump, have your vehicle inspected and repaired by the fuel system and powertrain experts at Matson Point S in Riverton, UT. Our team has extensive experience in providing fuel system services on all makes and models. Give us a call or schedule online today!

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is used in every modern diesel-powered engine vehicle and is essential for reducing harmful emissions. If your vehicle’s DEF tank runs out of fluid, it will trigger a warning light, and your vehicle’s performance will be limited until the tank is refilled. In this article, we will explain what DEF is, how it works, and why it is essential for modern diesel engines.

What Is DEF Fluid?

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a non-toxic, colorless, and odorless solution that consists of purified water and urea. It is injected into the exhaust system of your diesel engine to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

DEF is not a fuel additive and is not mixed with diesel fluid, but rather stored in a separate tank in the vehicle and is injected into the exhaust system when needed.

How Does DEF Fluid Work?

The SCR technology utilizes DEF to convert harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor through a chemical reaction. When diesel fuel burns in the engine, it produces nitrogen oxides as a byproduct. The exhaust gases containing NOx pass through the SCR catalyst, where DEF is injected.

Why Do You Need DEF Fluid?

In 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency released the Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA), requiring all new diesel vehicles to feature a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, which removes up to 90% of pollutants from diesel exhaust, significantly reducing the negative effects of nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere.

Benefits Of Using DEF Fluid

While it is a legal requirement, Diesel Exhaust Fluid has several benefits for diesel engines.

Environmental Protection

DEF reduces the amount of harmful emissions that your vehicle emits, making it more environmentally friendly.

Improved Fuel Economy

DEF can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by up to 5%. This is due to the SCR system reducing the amount of fuel needed to power the engine by optimizing the combustion process.

Engine Logevity and Performance

Running DEF can reduce your maintenance costs by keeping the exhaust system clean, resulting in fewer repairs and longer service intervals.

When Should You Refill Your DEF Tank?

Most diesel vehicles will alert you when the DEF tank is running low. The warning light typically comes on when the tank is about 20% full, and you should refill the tank as soon as possible. Ilimited performance mode

Diesel Service at Matson Point S

When the time comes for diesel repair, the auto mechanics at Matson Point S Tire & Auto Service are the best choice in Riverton, South Jordan, Herriman, Draper, and beyond. We are your one-stop shop for auto repair in Riverton. If your diesel truck requires service or repair, you can rely on our team to quickly and accurately handle the work.

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4×4 vehicles provide drivers with the capability they need to tackle off-road trails, inclement weather, and other tough conditions that most vehicles just can’t handle. Unlike all-wheel drive vehicles, 4x4s often include the ability to engage and disengage the second set of wheels as needed. If you’ve ever owned or ridden in one often, you may have noticed the “High” and “Low” settings on the switch to engage the transfer case.

In this article, we’ll go over what those 4-High and 4-Low labels mean, how they affect your vehicle’s driving, and what situations to use each in.

What Do 4-High & 4-Low Mean?

Both of these settings engage your 4WD system, however it’s important to understand the differences between them to ensure you’re using the proper mode for the conditions you’re driving in. 

4-High

The 4-High mode (sometimes labeled as 4Hi or 4H) locks the front and rear axles of the vehicle together, meaning all four wheels will receive power at the exact same time, maximizing traction in slippery conditions.

4-High is best for situations where you want to maintain a normal driving speed with 4×4 engaged, such as along a snowy road or to help you get through sand or mud. It’s important to keep your speed below 55 MPH with 4-High engaged, as you could risk damaging the drivetrain if pushed too hard.

4-Low

The 4-Low mode (also labeled 4Lo or 4L) operates similarly to the 4-High setting, however, the major difference between the two is the low-range gear ratios used while the vehicle is in 4-Low. These low-range gears are comparable to driving a vehicle exclusively in first gear, as it provides increased torque at low speeds while preventing you from shifting into a higher gear.

4-Low mode is best used when in particularly difficult conditions, such as off-road trails or extreme weather. The low-range gearing increases the engine’s speed, which helps maximize traction from low-end torque and keeps your engine at a high enough RPMs to prevent stalling over slow and rocky terrain. 

It’s important to note that 4-Low mode is not designed for regular street driving, and should only be engaged when absolutely necessary such as towing a heavy load or ascending a very steep incline. Pushing 4-Low above 10-15 MPH can spell trouble for the components of your drivetrain.

Should I Leave My Vehicle In 4-High Or 4-Low

It’s best to not leave your vehicle in any 4×4-engaged mode over periods of regular driving, and should instead only be switched on when necessary. Driving in either of these modes regularly will increase the strain put on your vehicle’s drivetrain and reduce efficiency. 

4×4 & Drivetrain Services in The Salt Lake Valley

If you’re looking for service or repair for your 4×4 vehicle in the Salt Lake Valley area, don’t hesitate to reach out to the 4×4 experts at Matson Point S in Riverton, Utah! Our team has extensive experience in providing high-quality drivetrain, differential, and axle services on a wide range of makes and models. Don’t let drivetrain issues linger and cause you expensive problems down the line, give us a call or schedule online today to secure your appointment with the premier off-road and 4WD repair facility in the Salt Lake Valley!

Noticing an unusual feeling from your vehicle while braking can be worrying, especially when it occurs under braking. While slight vibrations from your vehicle can be normal, a consistent shaking feeling when you hit the brake pedal could be a sign of larger issues in your vehicle’s braking system.

In this article, we’ll go over the common causes of vibrations while braking, why this occurs, and what it could mean for the health of your vehicle.

What’s Causing My Car To Shake Under Braking?

In the majority of cases, a shaking feeling while braking can be attributed to a warped brake rotor.

In disc brake setups, which are found on the vast majority of modern vehicles, the brake rotors are the large metal discs which are pressed down on by the abrasive brake pads to create friction and slow down the vehicle. When these components experience excessive heat, it can cause the metal of the rotor to warp and bend. This generally occurs due to heavy or frequent braking causing the rotor to overheat.

With a warped rotor, the brake pads will skip along the uneven surface of the pad, which transfers small vibrations to the chassis which cause that shaking feeling while you brake.

Are Warped Brake Rotors Dangerous?

Driving on warped brake rotors can definitely become dangerous. While many cases start out fairly mild, severely warped brakes will cause a loss of stopping power and control of the vehicle. Reduced braking performance can quickly lead to a dangerous situation, and allowing warped rotors to linger can cause increased wear to surrounding components or even lead to cracks developing within the rotor itself. 

How To Prevent Rotors From Warping

The easiest way to prevent your brake rotors from overheating is to focus on braking gradually and less-frequently, as this will ensure the rotors do not experience rapid heat buildup that leads to warping. 

Having your brake system inspected occasionally will also give you a good idea of your brakes’ current health so you can make educated decisions on brake maintenance and replacement.

Brake System Services in Riverton, UT

If you notice a shaking feeling while braking, or suspect your vehicle has other brake system issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Matson Point S in Riverton, Utah. Our team has the equipment and experience needed to provide your brake system with the highest quality of service and repair. Don’t let brake issues linger and cause you bigger problems down the line, give us a call or schedule online today to secure your appointment with the Salt Lake Valley’s premier brake service facility!