Problems with systems and components will develop over time due to damage or infrequent servicing. As your Honda dealership, we want you to know some signs you need to visit us for Honda maintenance. Some Signs You Need Honda Maintenance at Your Honda Dealership Black Exhaust Smoke Normal exhaust smoke is almost translucent and often difficult to see. If black smoke blows from the exhaust, this is a sign of trouble. Black smoke is caused by unburnt fuel, and you'll notice the smoke smells like gas. This problem is caused by a lack of air in the engine. This turns the fuel-air mixture fuel-rich Combustion requires more fuel and air. Air enters the engine through the air filter, which traps dirt. In time, this filter will become blocked, and the airflow into the engine drops. The lack of air in the fuel-air mixture means most of the fuel in the mix won't burn. The unburnt fuel is dumped into the exhaust system, exiting the tailpipe as thick black smoke. Once we replace the air filter, the exhaust smoke will return to normal. more Illuminated Warning Lights The warning lights on your dashboard automatically light up when your engine starts, then should go dark again almost instantly. If one or more lights remain on, they signal that something is wrong. Sensors are connected to all important systems and components. They receive instructions from the computer, and they relay information back to it on the status and health of their connected component. If something goes wrong with a component, its sensor informs your computer. If the computer can't fix the issue, it logs the fault with an error code and illuminates the relevant warning light. Our technicians will connect an OBD II scanner to your vehicle's computer to read any error codes. Once we have the codes, we'll fix the problem. Screeching Brakes Screeching brakes are a sign that one or more of the brake pads are worn and need replacement. When you hit the brakes, the calipers close on either side of the rotors. Each caliper contains a brake pad with a rough material covering. This material generates friction against the rotor, which causes it to stop. The pad material slowly wears down, and when it's time for replacement, a metal spike inside the pad scratches against the rotor, producing a high-pitched screeching. Once we replace the worn pad or pads, the noise will stop. Book your Honda maintenance today by contacting us at Columbia Honda in Columbia, MO. Image Via
