Warning signs your brakes need attention! Don't ignore grinding, unusual sounds, or a soft brake pedal. Get a safe, reliable stop with Green Tech Garage's brake repair.

Spring into action with our guide to spring car care! Learn how seasonal changes impact your vehicle and discover essential maintenance tips to keep your ride running!

The I-90 serves as a vital artery across Washington State, presenting a variety of hazards that the pros at Green Tech Garage will share.

Detailing a car should be left to the professionals. Learn why along with Green Tech Garage and get answers to a few related questions.

Revamp your ride into an eco-warrior with Green Tech Garage's comprehensive guide on making your car greener! Discover practical steps from regular maintenance tricks to adopting sustainable driving habits.

Detailing your vehicle - a simple yet crucial component of your maintenance routine that shouldn't be overlooked. Green Tech Garage will share a few things you need to know and also answer common questions at the end, so tune in!

From regular inspections to cleanliness practices, learn how to prolong the life of your exhaust system and enhance your driving experience along with Green Tech Garage!

Signs That Your Fuel Filter Needs Replacing Behind the scenes of your car's powerful engine, a relatively small yet indispensable component silently works to ensure smooth and efficient operation: the fuel filter. While often overlooked, fuel filters are the unsung heroes that protect your engine from impurities and contaminants that could otherwise cause significant damage. Understanding Fuel Filters A fuel filter is a simple yet crucial component in your vehicle's fuel system. Its primary function is to strain and filter out impurities and contaminants that may be present in the fuel before it reaches your engine. This ensures that only clean and pure fuel is burned, allowing for efficient combustion and optimal engine performance. Importance of Fuel Filtration Fuel filters play a vital role in safeguarding your engine against potential damage. Here's why they are so crucial: Protecting Fuel Injectors: Modern engines use precise fuel injectors that rely on a steady flow of clean fuel. Dirty fuel can clog these injectors, leading to reduced performance and poor fuel efficiency. Preventing Engine Damage : Impurities in the fuel, such as dirt and debris, can wear down engine components, including the fuel pump and injectors. Over time, this can lead to costly repairs and reduced engine lifespan. Types of Fuel Filters There are two main types of fuel filters: Inline Filters: These are typically located in the fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine. They are replaceable and need periodic maintenance. In-Tank Filters: Some vehicles have fuel filters located inside the fuel tank as part of the fuel pump assembly. These are generally less accessible and may require less frequent replacement. Signs of a Clogged Fuel Filter As fuel filters accumulate impurities over time, they can become clogged. Here are some signs that your fuel filter may need replacement: Reduced engine performance and power Poor acceleration and hesitation during acceleration Engine misfires or rough idling Difficulty starting the engine Decreased fuel efficiency Fuel Filter Maintenance Ensuring your engine operates flawlessly requires regular maintenance of your fuel filter. To begin, consult your vehicle's owner's manual to determine the recommended maintenance schedule and replacement intervals for your particular fuel filter. If you encounter any of the aforementioned warning signs or if it's time for a scheduled replacement, entrust the replacement of your fuel filter to a skilled auto technician. Finally, opt for clean and reputable fuel when refueling to safeguard the longevity of your fuel filter by minimizing the risk of contamination. Remember, while fuel filters may be small, they play a significant role in your vehicle's overall performance and longevity. By giving them the attention they deserve and ensuring timely replacements, you can enjoy a smoother ride and avoid costly engine repairs. If you need assistance changing your fuel filter, or with any other auto maintenance , please bring your vehicle to Green Tech Garage in Spokane Valley, WA. Our technicians are always happy to assist you!

Battery Corrosion: Is Battery Replacement On the Way? Ah, the familiar sight of corrosion on your car's battery terminals – it's like an uninvited guest that overstays its welcome. But before you start contemplating a battery replacement, let's get into the world of battery corrosion and whether it automatically spells doom for your battery. The Culprit Behind Corrosion Battery corrosion occurs when a chemical reaction occurs between the battery's terminals and the acidic vapor that escapes the battery. This reaction results in the formation of a powdery, often blue or white substance on the terminals. While it might look unpleasant, the presence of corrosion doesn't necessarily mean your battery is on its last legs. Assessing the Wear and Tear The amount of corrosion on your battery doesn't directly correlate with the battery's health. Mild corrosion is common and doesn't necessarily indicate a failing battery. However, if the corrosion is excessive and starts to eat away at the terminals or cable connections, it can hinder the battery's ability to deliver a strong charge to the electrical system. Cleaning and Prevention Before jumping to conclusions about battery replacement, it's worth attempting to clean the corrosion. A mixture of baking soda and water can neutralize the acidic residue. You should gently scrub the terminals and connections with a toothbrush and the mixture, then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. To prevent future corrosion, consider applying a battery terminal protector spray. This spray forms a protective barrier that helps keep moisture and corrosive agents at bay. When Is a Battery Replacement Necessary There are scenarios where corrosion is a sign of a more significant issue. If your battery has been consistently losing charge, struggling to start the engine, or the corrosion is extensive and has caused physical damage to the terminals, a replacement might be the best course of action. Seeking Professional Advice When in doubt, it's always wise to consult with a professional mechanic at our auto repair shop. We can assess the extent of the corrosion, test your battery's performance, and recommend the most appropriate solution. In some cases, a simple cleaning might do the trick, while in others, a replacement might be unavoidable. Battery corrosion might seem like a cause for panic, but it's not always a death sentence for your battery. Remember, a professional opinion from the trusted team at Green Tech Garage in Spokane Valley is your best ally in making the right decision for your battery's longevity and your vehicle's reliability.