keller-alliance-auto-repair

The Ultimate Guide to AC Services: Keeping Cool in Keller, TX

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:04:27 GMT

Expert AC Services at Keller Alliance Auto Repair, Keller, TX. Ensure a cool, comfortable ride. Visit us today or schedule an appointment online now!

Wheel Balancing vs Wheel Alignment: Why Your Vehicle Needs Both

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:53:19 GMT

Many drivers assume wheel balancing and wheel alignment are the same service. While both help your vehicle handle smoothly and safely, they address different issues. Understanding the difference can help you make better maintenance decisions and avoid costly repairs down the road.

What Is Wheel Balancing?

Wheel balancing corrects weight imbalances in your tires and wheels. Even small differences in weight distribution can cause vibrations at higher speeds. During balancing, a technician mounts each wheel on a machine that spins it to detect uneven spots. Tiny weights are then attached to the rim to even out the distribution.

Signs you may need balancing include:

Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds
Uneven or faster tire wear
A bumpy ride on smooth roads

Most auto repair shops in Keller TX recommend balancing whenever you install new tires or after hitting a large pothole.

What Is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your wheels so they point in the proper direction. Alignment affects how your tires make contact with the road surface. Misalignment often happens after hitting curbs, driving on rough terrain, or normal wear over time.

Proper alignment ensures your vehicle tracks straight and your tires wear evenly. Poor alignment can cause your car to pull to one side, reduce fuel efficiency, and lead to premature tire replacement.

Common signs of misalignment include:

Vehicle pulls left or right while driving
Steering wheel sits off-center
Tires show uneven tread patterns

Getting regular alignment checks at a trusted Keller auto repair shop helps catch these problems early.

Key Differences Between Balancing and Alignment

Though both services improve ride quality, they fix separate problems:

Purpose : Balancing corrects weight distribution. Alignment corrects wheel angles.
Symptoms : Balancing fixes vibrations. Alignment fixes pulling or drifting.
Tools Used : Balancing uses a spin machine and weights. Alignment uses lasers or cameras to measure angles.
Frequency : Balancing is needed when installing tires or after impact. Alignment should be checked at least once a year or when you notice handling issues.

Why Your Vehicle Needs Both Services

Skipping either service can lead to bigger problems. Unbalanced wheels cause vibrations that wear out suspension parts faster. Misaligned wheels create uneven tire wear that shortens tire lifespan and wastes fuel.

Regular maintenance for both balancing and alignment keeps your ride comfortable and your vehicle safer. Most drivers benefit from alignment checks annually and balancing whenever they rotate or replace tires.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

If you've noticed vibrations, pulling, or uneven tire wear, bring your vehicle to a reliable auto repair Keller TX shop for a thorough inspection. At Keller Alliance Auto Repair, our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose whether you need balancing, alignment, or both. We use advanced equipment to ensure accurate results and long-lasting performance.

Don't wait until small issues turn into expensive repairs. Visit https://www.kellerallianceautorepair.com/ to schedule your appointment or call us today. Keep your vehicle running smoothly with the care it deserves.

Why Proper Wheel Alignment Matters for Your Vehicle?

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:04:43 GMT

Ensure smooth rides with expert wheel alignment in Keller, TX. Visit Keller Alliance Auto Repair for precision, safety, and better tire life. Book online today!

Fleet Services for Local Businesses in Keller: How to Keep Vehicles on the Road

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:23:44 GMT

For any service-based company in Keller, reliable transportation is not a luxury. It is the backbone of your daily operations. Whether you manage a plumbing company with a dozen vans or a floral shop with delivery cars, a breakdown means much more than a simple repair bill. It means missed appointments, frustrated clients, and lost revenue. Keeping your fleet on the road requires a smart, proactive strategy rather than a reactive one.

Challenges Facing Local Commercial Fleets

Many business owners wait until a check engine light flashes or a strange noise starts before seeking help. This approach often leads to expensive repairs that keep vital vehicles out of commission for days, hurting your profitability. The most effective way to protect your bottom line is partnering with a shop that understands the urgency of commercial needs. Local businesses face unique pressure to always deliver consistent results, and your vehicles must be ready to roll efficiently every single morning.

The Value of Routine Preventive Maintenance

Routine care is the secret to vehicle longevity. Regular oil changes and multi-point inspections allow technicians to spot wear and tear before it becomes a catastrophic failure. For instance, catching a worn belt during a standard service is far cheaper and faster than replacing an engine component after it snaps on Highway 377. Consistently scheduling maintenance ensures your team can focus on their jobs instead of worrying about whether their truck will start during a busy route.

Reducing Downtime with Professional Service

Professional fleet services are designed to minimize the time your assets spend in the shop. When you have a trusted relationship with a provider of auto repair keller tx relies on, you gain a partner who prioritizes your busy schedule. Services like fluid checks, tire rotations, cooling system flushes, and battery diagnostics are performed efficiently to get your drivers back behind the wheel. Addressing issues like wheel alignment helps extend tire life, saving you money on frequent replacements.

Prioritizing Safety and Inspection Compliance

Beyond basic upkeep, specialized attention to safety systems is always vital. Your fleet carries your employees and your brand reputation. Ensuring that brake repair keller tx businesses need is handled by ASE-certified technicians guarantees that your vehicles stop safely every time. Additionally, addressing transmission issues early prevents sluggish performance that burns excess fuel. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to liability issues if an avoidable accident occurs due to mechanical negligence.

Compliance is another critical operational factor. Staying current with a state vehicle inspection Texas mandates is necessary to keep your fleet legal and avoid costly fines. A local shop can handle these inspections alongside routine work, saving you an extra trip and streamlining your administrative tasks significantly.

Protecting Your Business Investment

Your fleet represents a significant financial investment. Protecting that investment requires more than occasional fixes. It demands a dedicated maintenance plan. By prioritizing preventive care, you reduce long-term costs and ensure your business never stops moving. Keller Alliance Auto Repair has served our community for over 14 years with honest, transparent, high-quality service. We provide full-service care and are ready to support your continued success.

Schedule your comprehensive fleet service or preventive maintenance visit with our team today at https://www.kellerallianceautorepair.com/ .

Why Expert Brake Repairs Matter and How Keller Alliance Auto Repair Can Help

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 02:25:23 GMT

Elevate your car's safety with precise brake repairs at Keller Alliance Auto Repair. Located in Keller, TX. Visit us today for top-notch service.

What Drivers in Keller Need to Know About 2026 Texas Emissions Testing

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:27:43 GMT

If you live in Keller, you might be confused about the current state of vehicle inspections. There was a lot of news in 2025 about the end of safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles. While that is true, it does not tell the whole story for drivers in Tarrant County.

The rules have changed, but the requirement to pass an emissions test has not gone away for our area. Understanding these changes is crucial to ensuring you can renew your vehicle registration on time. At Keller Alliance Auto Repair , we want to help our neighbors navigate these requirements with ease.

Safety vs. Emissions: What Changed?

In the past, drivers had to pass a comprehensive safety inspection and an emissions test to get their sticker. As of 2025, the safety portion is no longer required for most passenger vehicles. You generally do not need a mechanic to check your wipers, lights, or brakes for the state anymore.

However, Texas emissions testing is still mandatory in specific counties to help maintain air quality standards. Because Keller is located in Tarrant County, local drivers are still required to pass this annual emissions test before renewing their registration. The fee usually shows up as a separate line item, but the physical test at the shop remains a necessary step.

Does My Vehicle Need a Test?

Not every car on the road requires this test. The state focuses on gasoline-powered vehicles that are between 2 and 24 years old. If your car fits that description and is registered in Tarrant County, you must pass the test.

There are a few notable exceptions. Fully electric vehicles do not produce tailpipe emissions, so they are exempt. Diesel-powered vehicles and motorcycles are also exempt from the emissions testing requirement.

Why Vehicles Fail the Emissions Test

The most common reason a vehicle fails is the check engine light. If this light is illuminated on your dashboard, your vehicle will automatically fail the emissions test. The state computer system reads the codes directly from your car, and any emissions-related error triggers a failure.

Another common issue involves "readiness monitors." If you recently disconnected your battery or cleared a computer code, your vehicle's internal computer might not have gathered enough data to pass. This often happens when a driver tries to clear a check engine light Texas inspection code right before driving into the shop. The system knows the data is incomplete and will turn you away until you drive the car long enough to reset the monitors.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle

You can save time and money by taking a few simple steps before your inspection.

Address Warning Lights: If your check engine light is on, do not ignore it. Bring your vehicle to a trusted shop for diagnostics first.
Drive Your Car: If your battery died recently, drive your car for a mix of city and highway miles for a few days before testing.
Regular Maintenance: keeping up with oil changes and filter replacements helps your engine run clean.

If you need a reliable vehicle inspection in Keller, TX , our team is here to help. We can quickly check your vehicle to ensure it meets all safety and emissions standards.

Get Ready for Registration Renewal

Navigating inspection laws can be tricky, but keeping your car legal shouldn't be a headache. The safety inspection might be gone, but the emissions test remains a vital part of owning a car in Tarrant County.

If you have a warning light on or simply need to get your annual test done, come see us. We have been serving the Keller and Alliance areas for over 14 years.

Schedule Your Visit Today

Don't let a failed test delay your registration. Visit Keller Alliance Auto Repair at 1485 S Main St Suite C for your emissions test or diagnostics. We offer free diagnostic scans on most vehicles to get you back on the road quickly.

[ Schedule your appointment online today ]

Why Your AC Isn’t Cold in Texas Heat: 5 Quick Fixes That Work

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:31:13 GMT

When the Texas sun is blazing, the last thing you want is for your car’s air conditioner to start blowing warm air. A functioning AC is a necessity, not a luxury, for staying comfortable and safe on the road. The extreme heat here puts a heavy strain on vehicle AC systems, causing them to fail when you need them most.

If your AC feels weak or isn't cooling properly, it's often due to a few common issues. Here are five practical fixes you can check to diagnose the problem and get that cool air flowing again.

1. Clogged Cabin Air Filter

Your car's cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, and other debris from entering the interior. Over time, it can become clogged, severely restricting airflow from your vents. If you notice the air from your AC is weak, even when the fan is on high, a dirty filter is a likely culprit. Replacing it is a simple and inexpensive fix that can immediately improve airflow.

2. Low Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system, absorbing heat from the cabin and releasing it outside. If your system is low on refrigerant, it won't be able to cool the air effectively. This is often caused by a leak somewhere in the system. While you might be tempted to just top it off, this is only a temporary solution. A professional will need to find and repair the leak to ensure the problem doesn't return.

3. Faulty Cooling Fans

Your car’s radiator has cooling fans that are essential for dissipating heat, not just for the engine but also for the AC condenser. If these fans aren't working correctly, the condenser can't release heat efficiently, which significantly reduces the AC's cooling ability. This is especially noticeable when your car is stopped or moving slowly in traffic.

4. Compressor Problems

The AC compressor is the heart of the system, responsible for circulating refrigerant. If the compressor is failing, it won't be able to pressurize the refrigerant properly, leading to weak or nonexistent cooling. A failing compressor can sometimes make a squealing or grinding noise when the AC is turned on. Addressing this issue requires professional attention.

5. Refrigerant Leaks

As mentioned, low refrigerant is usually due to a leak. Small cracks or holes can develop in the hoses, seals, or other components of your AC system. Simply adding more refrigerant won't solve the underlying issue. A professional technician can perform a leak detection test to pinpoint the source and provide a lasting repair. For reliable auto AC repair in Keller, TX , it's best to have the system inspected thoroughly.

Find Expert Car Repair in Keller

If you’ve tried these fixes and still can’t get relief, it’s time to consult a professional. At Keller Alliance Auto Repair, we provide expert auto repair in Keller, TX . As a locally owned shop, we have been proudly serving the Keller and Alliance communities for more than 14 years.

Our ASE-certified technicians offer full-service automotive care, including AC service and recharge, leak detection, brake repair, engine diagnostics, oil changes, and state emissions testing for Tarrant County vehicles. We are known for our transparent pricing and photo-backed estimates, servicing both domestic and imported vehicles.

Don't sweat it out this summer. Schedule your AC diagnostic or service with one of the most trusted auto repair shops in Keller, TX . Visit us at https://www.kellerallianceautorepair.com/ to book an appointment.

Transmission Diagnostics and Repair: When to Rebuild vs. Replace

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:38:15 GMT

Your car's transmission suddenly starts slipping, making strange noises, or hesitating when shifting gears. These warning signs can be alarming, especially when you're unsure whether you're facing a costly repair or complete replacement. Understanding how transmission diagnostics work can help you make informed decisions about your vehicle's future.

Understanding Transmission Problems

Transmission issues rarely appear overnight. Most problems develop gradually, starting with subtle symptoms like delayed shifting, unusual sounds, or fluid leaks. Common warning signs include:

Grinding or whining noises during gear changes
Slipping gears or difficulty staying in gear
Burning smell from transmission fluid
Red or dark brown fluid leaking under your vehicle
Dashboard warning lights

Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems requiring extensive repairs.

The Role of Professional Diagnostics

Proper transmission diagnostics involve more than visual inspections. Professional technicians use specialized equipment to test fluid pressure, electronic controls, and internal components. This comprehensive evaluation reveals the extent of damage and helps determine the most cost-effective solution.

During diagnostics, technicians check fluid levels and condition, test solenoids and sensors, examine the torque converter, and assess internal wear patterns. This thorough process typically takes several hours but provides crucial information for making repair decisions.

Rebuild vs. Replace: Key Factors

The choice between rebuilding and replacing your transmission depends on several factors. Age and mileage play significant roles in this decision. Vehicles with high mileage or older transmissions may benefit more from complete replacement, while newer vehicles with isolated problems often respond well to rebuilds.

Cost considerations matter too. Rebuilds typically cost 40-60% less than replacements but may not address all potential issues. Replacements offer longer warranties and improved reliability but require higher upfront investment.

The severity of damage also influences the decision. Minor wear or single component failures often justify rebuilds, while multiple system failures or catastrophic damage usually require replacement.

Making the Right Choice

Professional transmission diagnostics provide the foundation for smart repair decisions. Experienced technicians can explain your options clearly, helping you weigh costs against benefits based on your vehicle's specific condition and your driving needs.

Consider your long-term plans for the vehicle. If you're planning to keep your car for several more years, investing in quality repairs makes sense. However, if you're considering upgrading soon, minimal repairs might be more appropriate.

Expert Transmission Services in Keller

For over 14 years, Keller Alliance Auto Repair has provided comprehensive transmission diagnostics and repair services to the Keller community. Located at 1485 S Main St Suite C, the shop’s ASE-certified technicians specialize in transmission rebuilds, replacements, and full-service auto care for all makes and models.

The shop follows a transparent approach that includes free initial diagnostics on most vehicles, helping customers understand options before committing to repairs. Whether you need transmission repair in Keller, TX or complete auto repair in Keller, Keller Alliance Auto Repair delivers dependable, professional results.

Next Steps for Your Vehicle

Transmission problems won’t resolve themselves, and delays often lead to more expensive repairs. If you're experiencing transmission symptoms, schedule professional diagnostics to understand your options and protect your investment.

Ready to get answers about your transmission? Visit kellerallianceautorepair.com to learn more about diagnostic services and schedule your appointment with Keller's trusted transmission specialists.

The Importance of Wheel Alignment for Your Vehicle's Longevity and Performance

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:11:18 GMT

Ensure perfect wheel alignment at Keller Alliance Auto Repair in Keller, TX. Experience better handling and fuel efficiency. Schedule an online appointment now!

Summer Cooling Essentials: Expert AC Services at Keller Alliance Auto Repair

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:09:59 GMT

Need reliable auto AC repair in Keller, TX? Our expert technicians deliver fast diagnostics, quality cooling repairs, and summer-ready comfort. Book today! Now!

Transmission Fluid Need To Be Flushed Or Changed?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:45:21 GMT

Things such as trouble going into gear, hard shifts or thumps between gears, slipping or jumping gears, delay in acceleration, and strange noises such as whining or grinding are all signs it’s time to change the transmission fluid.

In most cases, getting a transmission flush at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs every 30,000 miles, or every two years or so is sufficient. However, there may be times when you need to get a transmission flush sooner, in order to help protect your car’s transmission. There are some common signs that you need to perform a transmission flush on your car or truck.

The transmission consists of about 800 parts, including gears, bell housing, and filters.

Transmission fluid is used in automatic transmission cars as a lubricant that keeps the transmission from overheating and helps power the transmission by creating pressure and torque. Transmission fluid can become dirty, contaminated and worn out. The transmission will not work correctly and ultimately overheat and break down if the fluid is not maintained properly. This is why it’s important to have our team of experts at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs do a proper Transmission Fluid Flush.

Problems Shifting Gears

Regardless if you drive an automatic or manual, your car requires clean transmission fluid that flows easily throughout your car’s transmission. A transmission that contains too much dirt or sludge will cause sluggish response in the transmission which will result in your vehicle changing gears too quickly or too late while driving. In manual transmission vehicles, you may find it very hard to change gears at all.

Transmission Grinding or Strange Noises

A vehicle transmission that is contaminated with dirt, grease and sludge can display symptoms very similar to inadequate levels of transmission fluid. When driving your vehicle, if you notice your transmission grinding or making strange sounds, you should stop the vehicle and check the transmission fluid level while the engine is still running. Insure that the transmission fluid color is bright red and not brown or black because of grime or sludge. If the fluid level of the transmission is acceptable, your vehicle probably needs a transmission flush.

Slipping Gears

A dirty transmission may cause a lack of hydraulic power, much the same as not having enough transmission fluid will cause. In order to stay in the appropriate gear, the transmission must develop enough pressure. When a transmission is too dirty, contaminants may interfere with the flow of transmission fluid that helps with this. If you’re transmission has no other problems, and the fluid level of the transmission is full (or close to it), the problem is probably restricted fluid flow due to a buildup of dirt and contaminants that need to be flushed out.

Surging of the Vehicle

When your vehicle’s transmission is polluted with a lot of dirt and contaminants, and needs a transmission flush, you may notice unexplainable surging of your vehicle. Because your car’s dirty transmission does not allow for adequate transmission fluid flow, your vehicle may tend to jump or surge forward and fall backwards for no good reason. This is caused by inconsistent flow of clean transmission fluid that is needed to ensure smooth operation of the gears and other moving parts inside the transmission bell housing.

Delay in Vehicle Movement

Another sign that your vehicle may have contaminated transmission fluid is when the vehicle stalls for one or two seconds before moving after having been put in gear. If there are no other problems with the transmission, a transmission flush may help.

You should be aware that if the vehicle is displaying these symptoms, your dirty transmission may have already caused bigger problems.

Transmission fluid color is a good indicator of wear and tear.

Though color is a good visual way to estimate the age and condition of the transmission fluid, it is not necessarily an indicator of a terrible problem. The color of your transmission fluid is a good place to start when it comes to diagnosing issues, but it does not always give you an accurate measure of its condition. image of transmission fluid color chart If in doubt, the best thing to do is have a professional transmission technician check the transmission, run a diagnosis, and go from there. You might discover there is nothing major wrong, and all you need is a fluid change, or a transmission flush

What’s a transmission fluid flush?

A transmission flush uses pressurized force to send fresh oil and cleaning solvents through the system and remove all of the old fluid and contaminants. New oil is then pumped into the transmission.

A transmission flush acts as a complete cleansing of all the old fluid, but if your transmission fluid has already been contaminated for some time, or the transmission has been running hot and experiencing problems, this procedure might not do much good.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Experts Can Help

If you are aware of problems, and have had your transmission serviced recently, a flush could help you get the most out of your transmission – consult a professional transmission mechanic. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, understand the process, and use your best judgement when deciding on how to maintain your transmission. Bring your vehicle into Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs for a FREE courtesy vehicle check and to ask us any questions you might have about your transmission.

If your transmission is slipping, you might be tempted to try and fix it on your own. But if you are uncomfortable or inexperienced when it comes to working on your transmission, maybe you should seek out a professional with experience with your type of transmission, such as the experts at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. Your transmission is far too important to your car and too expensive for you to be messing around with it.

Bring your vehicle to a transmission specialist instead and have them take a look at it if you feel your transmission slipping, overheating, or shifting strangely. They’ll be able to diagnose the real problem with your vehicle and get it up and running again in no time. It may not even be your transmission since many external factors will also cause these types of problems.

Would you like to have your transmission inspected by someone who truly understands it? Call us today or schedule your appointment online for expert transmission repair in Keller, TX, and have your vehicle checked by the skilled mechanics at Keller Alliance Auto Repair.

What You Should Know About A CVT Transmission

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:40:23 GMT

With holiday season being one of the most popular times for people shopping for a new vehicle, you may come across the term CVT Transmission. What does this term mean? And more pointedly, is it something you should buy – or something you should avoid?

CVTs were once derided as the shiftless “rubber band” transmission that made cars seem as if they were revving up forever. But CVTs are no longer a mere experiment by automakers looking for new ways to improve efficiency. They’re becoming so common that it’s hard to find a mainstream manufacturer that doesn’t offer them in at least some models. Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Jeep, Nissan, Subaru and Toyota all provide CVTs as the standard transmission in at least one model. And some carmakers have been doing so for many years.

What is CVT?

CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, which is different from a conventional automatic transmission. The standard automatic features a complex series of gears that transmit the power of the engine to the wheels. The CVT, on the other hand, doesn’t have any gears. It features a pair of pulleys of variable width, connected by a belt. One pulley is connected to the engine, the other to the wheels. Because their width is variable, it changes depending on how much power the car needs, hence the term “continuously variable transmission”.

The CVT also works a little differently from a conventional transmission. To a certain extent, you do operate it more or less normally—sliding the shift lever from Park into Drive, then zooming off! From there, though, the CVT gets a little bit more complex.

You see, with ordinary automatics, there are a set number of gears—so, for instance, you may see a vehicle marked as a “6-speed automatic.” Each of these gears accommodates a certain speed range, so as you start driving faster, the car may automatically shift from first gear into second, and maybe then on to the third.

With a continuously variable transmission, though, you do not have all these gears. Actually, you just have one. Unlike the individual gears in an ordinary automatic, this gear can handle all speeds. That’s why they call it variable.

CVT Transmission vs. Automatic

There are several differences between the automatic and continuously variable transmission, apart from the basic functionality of each. Some are more obvious than others. For instance, when you’re driving a vehicle with CVT, you won’t notice or “feel” gears shifting. You’ll just notice the car getting faster or slower. In that sense, it might make for a smoother ride. The unusual thing is that it essentially chooses the ideal speed for any given situation and holds it constant—even if you’re accelerating the car.

Say, for instance, you try to speed up to pass another car. When you slam on the gas, the car will immediately zoom to a nice, brisk speed – but then, it will hold steady at that speed, even as you continue to apply pressure to the gas pedal. So that feeling you get in an ordinary automatic, where you climb through the gears, just isn’t there.

Another difference you may notice, when driving a vehicle like this, is an easier take off. Since there are no gears in a CVT transmission, your vehicle will find it easier to get to the ideal torque ratio and maintain it. This means it will almost effortless for the car to take off from a stoplight, as well as easier to climb even on difficult terrain.

Needless to say, driving a vehicle like this is a unique experience, and it’s becoming more and more popular with some auto manufacturers. Many automakers use CVTs because it can get maximum power out of a small engine, therefore delivering a quicker, more reactive acceleration. This is also the reason why vehicles with four-cylinder engines are often the ones with CVTs.

Cars with continuously variable transmission

Because cars with a continuously variable transmission and ones equipped with a standard automatic look the same, you may not be able to tell the difference when car shopping. But here are the car makes and models that most often use CVT transmissions:

Mitsubishi, Nissan & Subaru – these car manufacturers often use continuously variable transmission not just for their regular models, but also for their SUVs.
Honda & Toyota – with over a dozen models that feature a CVT transmission, these two Japanese automakers are also on the rise.
European manufacturers – although CVTs are more common among Japanese brands. Some European car manufacturers also started adopting it for a few of their models, including Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class, as well as Renault Koleos and Megane.

If you’d like to know what type of transmission a car has before buying it, it’s easy to do for new vehicles, as this is usually printed on the window sticker, but you can also find it on the manufacturer’s website or printed brochure. If you’re buying a used car, then further research may be required, but typing the make, model and year in a search browser should do the trick.

CVT Transmission Problems

But before actually buying a car with this type of transmission, you might want to look into the CVT transmission reliability. Is this the best kind of transmission for your next vehicle? Certainly, there are some advantages:

This kind tends to get slightly better gas mileage, especially in city driving. Fuel efficiency is a great advantage of CVTs because they can adjust gear ratios instantaneously. They also have an infinite range. Estimates place an average sedan with CVT transmission at 38 miles per gallon. You’ll also find this type of transmission in most hybrids.
The power delivered is simple and straightforward.
The ride itself tends to be smooth; you never feel the gears shifting, because, well, they don’t!

But there are also drawbacks, the most common complaint of some drivers being that a continuous variable transmission doesn’t allow for quite as much speed. Also, some drivers prefer the escalating gear shifts to the steady hum of this new technology. Other CVT transmission problems include:

Overheating
Sudden loss of acceleration
Slipping, jerking & shuddering
Excessive wear and stretching of the belt
Droning sound
Cost of repair and maintenance

Ultimately, it’s up to you—but we do recommend that you drive a CVT transmission before you purchase one

Common Causes For Slipping Transmission

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:05:07 GMT

If the transmission in your vehicle is slipping, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s going to fail on you anytime soon. But if you don’t address the transmission slipping, it could very well force you to make major transmission repairs at some point in the future.

Replacing a transmission in a car, truck, or SUV can cost anywhere from $1,000 all the way up to $6,000 in some cases. It can also put your vehicle on the shelf for a few weeks, which is why you should avoid it at all costs.

There are a number of things that can cause a slipping transmission. In some cases, you can stop the slipping by making a minor repair. In others, it’ll take more time and money to fix the problem. Either way, you should stop transmission slipping ASAP.

Keep reading to learn about common causes for a slipping transmission.

First, What Are Signs of a Slipping Transmission?

Before we start talking about what causes transmission slipping, it’s important for you to know some of the signs of it. By educating yourself about the signs of a slipping transmission, you can keep an eye out for them when you’re behind the wheel.

Your transmission might be slipping if you notice any of these things taking place:

You experience delays in acceleration when you step on the gas in your vehicle
You notice that your car seems to struggle to shift from one gear to the next
You see a high RPM on your dashboard when you’re driving
You smell something burning while you’re driving
Your check engine light comes on and indicates an issue with your transmission

Don’t ignore these signs! They could be letting you know that your transmission is slipping.

Now, let’s check out some things that can cause automatic transmission slippage.

1. Not Enough Transmission Fluid

Is there a chance that your vehicle might not have enough transmission fluid in it? If so, that could be causing you to experience a slipping transmission.

Unfortunately, a lot of today’s cars don’t have dipsticks in them that allow you to check your transmission fluid level. But if you are low on transmission fluid, it’s usually because there is a problem somewhere in your system that’s causing the transmission fluid to leak.

You should, therefore, keep an eye out for signs of a transmission fluid leak. Transmission fluid is typically red in color and slick and will often pool underneath of your car when it’s leaking out. It’ll be important for you to find the source of the leak and have it repaired to stop this problem from reoccurring so that your transmission stops slipping and causing further damage.

If you must drive the vehicle, topping off the fluid to the full mark on the dipstick should get you to the repair facility if the leak is not too severe. If the leak is severe, have the vehicle towed and do not drive it as that will cause severe damage to the internal lubricated parts.

If you don’t fix the leak and keep enough transmission fluid in your vehicle, it will lead to overheating. It could also lead to a lack of hydraulic pressure in your transmission, which will often cause your transmission to slip and struggle when it tries to engage and change from one gear to the next.

Outside of fixing the leaks, you should also find out how often your car’s manufacturer recommends having your transmission fluid replaced. Most modern cars, trucks, and SUVs rely on synthetic fluids that will last for an extended time, but you will likely need to replace your transmission fluid at some point.

You’ll need to be extra mindful about replacing your transmission fluid more often if you tow with your vehicle or live in an area with hills, a lot of stop and go traffic, or severe weather. Most car manufacturers will provide severe service recommendations that is more often and for less mileage for those vehicles that experience any of these categories.

Follow the recommendations given to you by your car’s manufacturer so that you know your vehicle always has the correct, fresh transmission fluid in it. Stay vigilant to leak and you will avoid transmission slipping for an extended period of time.

2. Transmission Bands That Are Worn or Broken

Most automatic transmissions have a devices or devices called bands that are an important friction device used to shift various gears in a transmission. Those bands need to stay strong and connected to help you avoid a slipping or harsh shifting transmission.

But over time, all friction wears and the bands in your transmission can break or wear due to the stresses put on your vehicle.

The only way to repair this particular problem is by bringing your vehicle in for service and having the bands that have broken or worn down replaced during an overhaul. This will stop your transmission from shifting improperly or slipping while you’re driving your car.

3. Worn Out Clutch Plates

Those with manual transmissions in their vehicles are all too familiar with the clutch that they use to disengage the engine from the transmission in order to switch gears without grinding. But it’s important to remember that automatic transmissions also have clutches as well, even though the driver doesn’t have to worry about controlling it themselves.

These clutches are made up of plates that consist of steel plates with friction material attached to them and steel plates with no friction on them, all sandwiched together in a pack. These clutch plates in an automatic operate in that precious transmission fluid and play an integral role in the operation of your clutch as a whole.

But automatic transmission clutch plates are paper thin, and if the transmission is not maintained with fluid changes and leak avoidance, it’s not uncommon at all for the friction material in clutch plates to wear out over time and cause transmission slipping.

The problem is that, once this material has worn away, there is no reversing the damage that has been done. Your transmission is going to continue to slip until the transmission has been overhauled and the worn clutch plates and other parts have been replaced.

4. Worn Out Gears

The gears in your transmission are some the most rugged parts in the transmission but also some of the most important parts in it, too. The gears are called planetary gears and they play an important part in compounding ratios that allow you to go faster and put your car into reverse.

Transmission gears are designed to last for a long time and can put up with almost anything that you throw at them. But like all auto parts, they can break and wear down over the years before finally giving out on you altogether.

When your planetary gears brak down, they won’t be able to mesh properly with the companion gears like they normally do. This can cause your vehicle to make horrible noises and jerk around a lot when you’re driving.

If your transmission has problems because of an issue with your gears, they’ll need to be replaced during an overhaul before you can start driving your car again. The problem is that when you have damage to metal gears, the metal that comes off of those parts travel all through the transmission and into some extremely sensitive solenoids, valves, and passages. A complete overhaul is often necessary to remove the debris.

5. Malfunctioning Solenoid

Unless you’re a gearhead or someone who has experienced transmission problems with your car in the past, you might not know what the solenoid is. But solenoids in today’s modern electronic transmission play a very important role in the overall well-being of your transmission’s operation

The solenoid is an electrohydraulic valve that controls how much transmission fluid is allowed to pass through your transmission at any given time. It’s the gatekeeper for your transmission in a lot of ways and must be working for your transmission to not slip and to shift properly.

If any of the many solenoids in your transmission are ever damaged or if there are ever any electrical issues with them, they might start to allow too much transmission fluid or too little transmission fluid to pass through your transmission’s shifting passages and pressure controls. This can, as you might expect, lead to lots of problems, including transmission overheating and slipping.

A damaged solenoid will need to be replaced to stop the slipping from taking place. It’s a pretty inexpensive part in the grand scheme of things, but it can make a world of a difference for your transmission.

6. Failing Torque Converter

Torque converters are another aspect of your transmission that not everyone knows about. But much like solenoids, the torque converters in transmissions play an important part in their operation.

A torque converter is a fluid coupler that also contains a friction clutch in it that locks up solid when you go into overdrive in order to provide you with better gas mileage. Until it goes into lock-up, it actually slips by design since it uses fluid to drive the transmission.

But problems can arise when a torque converter fails to do its job properly. When a torque converter malfunctions, it can cause an excessive amount of heat to build up inside of a transmission, and that heat can do damage to the rest of the transmission.

Stop Transmission Slipping Today

If your transmission is slipping, you might be tempted to try and fix it on your own. But if you are uncomfortable or inexperienced when it comes to working on your transmission, maybe you should seek out a professional with experience with your type of transmission. Your transmission is far too important to your car and too expensive for you to be messing around with it.

If you notice your transmission slipping, overheating, or shifting unusually, bring your vehicle to a trusted specialist for a professional inspection. The experienced team at Keller Alliance Auto Repair provides dependable transmission repair in Keller, TX, accurately diagnosing the root cause of the issue and getting you back on the road quickly. In many cases, the problem may stem from external components rather than the transmission itself, which is why a thorough evaluation is essential.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Supports Gold Star Family Monument

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:09:51 GMT

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs is proud to be a supporter of the Keller Gold Star Family Monument through not only donations but Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Owner David Gerda is also a supporting committee member. Fox 4 News released the following story on the Gold Star Family Monument.

Keller, Texas – The city of Keller is honoring the families of fallen American service members.

An eighth grader came up with the idea of a fundraiser to build a monument in the city.

“These families have gone through so much. They’ve made a huge sacrifice as well as their fallen service member and it’s just good to give them support, their whole family, not just one person in the family. Family, friends… it’s just important to share the love,” said Erin Stillinger, who attends Indian Springs Middle School.

The last remaining Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II was at the groundbreaking ceremony Sunday to help encourage donations. Retired Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer “Woody” Williams travels the country at age 95 to push for this kind of memorial.

“This thing isn’t about me at all. It’s about them. And as I say in my motto, the cause is greater than I,” he said.

The goal is to raise $65,000 to build the monument. The foundation has raised $26,000 so far.

Donations for the Keller Gold Star Family Monument.

Common Causes Of Power Steering System Damage

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:07:12 GMT

The Power steering system help lower the effort needed by drivers to steer and control their cars, which is key to allowing the vehicle to maneuver without much effort and increase the driving experience. Most vehicles today use a hydraulic power steering system (HPS) to create the force necessary to move the wheels. However, manufacturers are starting to build cars using an electric power steering system (EPS). When problems arise in the hydraulic power steering system they can most often be attributed to faults in the fluid or pump, but sometimes belts or other factors are to blame.

The Aamco of Keller team are your locally trusted, expert mechanics that are here to keep you and your vehicle safely on the road. Power Steering System Damage and lack of proper power steering system maintenance can lead to more costly repairs in the future. So we always recommend having your power steering system and power steering fluid checked during your routinely scheduled vehicle maintenance.

Low Power Steering Fluid & Power Steering Leaks

A low power steering fluid level reduces the amount of hydraulic fluid pressure the pump can create. This also makes the pump work much harder, consequently wearing it out much faster. In addition, fluid is also used as a lubricant and coolant. If the components are lubricated or cooled improperly, the power steering system can be jeopardized. Failing to replace the fluid on time makes the wheel increasingly difficult to turn until it gives out altogether.

Damaged hoses and old, degraded seals are the biggest reasons for power steering leaks. An inadequate amount of fluid can cause the pump to wear out very quickly or even overheat. If this happens the pump is rendered useless and must be entirely replaced.

Broken Power Steering Belt

A belt connected to the crankshaft of the engine usually energizes the power steering pump. When belts become worn, they can slip. There’s no way you’ll miss a belt slip or snap. Broken power steering belts will reduce your steering ability as soon as it fails. This is due to the inability of the belt to power the pump.

Failing Power Steering Pump

The aforementioned symptoms also lead to the pump being worn out. After a pump is worn, the car may become even more problematic if you try to drive. As your pump ages, you’ll start to hear pump noise and the force you need to steer increases. It’s always better to get the pump fixed sooner rather than later.

Contamination of Power Steering Fluid

One of the most critical elements of the whole system is the power steering fluid. Contamination of the fluid can happen when the pumps fail, hoses deteriorate or any outside moisture enters the fluid. Such problems all result in contamination of the fluid, likely causing small openings to plug up the steering system, an increase in friction, or even interference with the fluid’s hydraulic characteristics. Contamination may lead to the failure of a power steering component.

Proper Electronic Power Steering Maintenance

The EPS system takes advantage of an electric motor, so no fluid is required! This decreases the amount of routine maintenance this system needs. However, there’s still plenty of ways to damage your EPS. For example, it’s not advised to drive over bumpy or damaged roads at high speeds. Hard bumps and vibrations can cause damage to the steering rack.

It’s also important to also check to make sure the rubber protective coverings are still in good condition. If water, dust and dirt get into the steering wheel arch, it can cause rusting and other problems for the EPS system.

Easy Ways to Maintain Your Power Steering System

Our team of ASE-certified technicians at Aamco of Keller are here to assist you with any power steering system problems while helping you avoid any more damage to your car.

Here are a few helpful reminders to help keep your Power Steering System in the best possible working condition.

Have the High and Low-Pressure Hoses Checked

Power steering fluid is transported through two main hoses. One of the hoses adds high-pressure and the other returns it back to the fluid tank with low-pressure. It’s common for leaks to form in either of the two hoses. Thus they should be checked on a regular basis to make sure that they don’t rub against one each other and that any protective coverings remain intact.

Change the Filter

Some drivers don’t even know there’s a power steering fluid filter. The filter should be changed every year unless indicated differently in the owner’s manual. It’s necessary to always keep the fluid clean so that it flows freely to reduce the wear-and-tear on the pump. It’s surprising how many contaminants make their way into the fluid’s tank. It’s the filters job to keep the contaminants out and the fluid clean.

Inspect the Power Steering Fluid Regularly

Keeping the filter changed on a regular basis in addition to keeping the fluid free from contaminants means higher quality fluid. The quality of the fluid is able to be determined from home by sampling and inspecting the color, while making sure there are no pieces of dirt, metal, grime or other pieces of debris. When the fluid is darker, the quality is a lot lower. When the fluid is dark and also has many particles and debris floating in it as well, that’s when you know it’s time for the fluid to be flushed out and replaced.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Your Local Power Steering Experts

Keeping you and your family safely on the road is important to us at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. If your believe you’re facing potential issues with your car’s power steering system, let one of our expert Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs technicians correctly diagnose your vehicles issue.

What To Know About Your Car’s Axles

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:03:46 GMT

The team at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs aims to educate on customers on common knowledge and potential issues they could face while on the road with their vehicle. A lack of a proper maintenance upkeep if you fail to keep your car maintained with regular tune-ups can make small issues even bigger leading to more costly repairs. This is why we at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs place the importance of proper preventative maintenance needs to our customers. Axles are an important part of the wheel system but are a component that many vehicle owners neglect. To ensure proper vehicle maintenance, it’s good to have a basic knowledge of what the axle does and why it’s important. You should also familiarize yourself with how to tell if your axle is malfunctioning and what to do to have it repaired.

What is the purpose of your Car’s Axles?

You should first understand the axle’s role within the vehicle. All wheeled vehicles have axles. Axles are used for steering, driving, and braking, meaning they are important for basically every aspect of vehicle use. Essentially, the axles transfer power and torque from your engine to your wheels. In performing this key function, the axle must be able to sustain the entire weight of the vehicle, cargo and passengers. The axle must also withstand the accelerated forces of driving and braking.

Two Types of Axles for your Car

There are two basic types of automobile axle. The first is called the drive axle, which is connected to the driveshaft. The driveshaft is basically just a rod that extends up into the vehicle’s transmission and connects with the engine. The engine itself helps turn the axle, then.

The other type of axle is the dead axle, which is not connected to the engine at all. It turns only when the vehicle is in motion, caused by the drive axle. Dead axles are present in your vehicle to help support the weight of the car.

What happens when your Car’s Axels begin to Fail?

Since axles have to sustain such tremendous weight, they are obviously made to be robust. Even so, as with any part of the vehicle, the axles can fall into disrepair. Over time, wear and tear can weaken them and perhaps lead to the need for axle replacement.

There are a few telltale signs that your axles are in need of some work:

If you put your car into gear and hear a sudden clunking sound, that’s a dead giveaway that there is a problem with the axle.
If you encounter vibrations throughout the car, either when driving, braking, or turning, that could point to an axle issue.
Finally, if your car sounds like it’s running fine but it simply won’t move, that’s clearly a sign that something is awry—and more likely than not, the culprit is the axle.
A broken axle is a serious problem and should not be ignored, for the sake of your safety as well as the health of the vehicle. It is vital that you address a broken axle as soon as possible by taking your car to a reputable mechanic.

Can you Drive with a Broken Car Axle?

If your axles are failing it’s very ill-advised and not recommended by our team of expert mechanics at Aamco of Keller. Failing axles are at risk of breaking or completely failing at any point; when your axle fails, you’ll lose control of the car, possibly causing an accident or crashing. It’s a far better choice to have the problem diagnosed and repaired now, rather than taking that chance. If one of your axles is truly broken or has already failed, you shouldn’t try to drive the car. It’s not safe and, chances are, you’re not going to get far if you don’t have two working axles. Which can only add to potential dangers for you and the other drivers on the road.

Keeping you and your family safely on the road is important to us at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. If your believe you’re facing potential issues with your car axels, let one of our expert Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs technicians correctly diagnose your vehicle. Stop into our shop located at 1485 S. Main St., Keller, TX 76248 or contact us today for an appointment.

What Does Your Car Oxygen Sensor Do?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:00:48 GMT

One of worst feelings as a car owner is to start your car and see a “Check Engine Light” come up on your dashboard. At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs our team of experts are here to keep you and your vehicle safely on the road. When a Check Engine Light occurs it’s extremely important to contact your local auto repair shop to receive a diagnostic on what the issue may be for your vehicle. Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs provides a full diagnostic reading for our Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Customers.

It’s a common possibility that when you see a Check Engine Light (CEL) or heater circuit malfunction message it could mean that your O2 sensor has simply gone bad. It may also mean that your vehicle is not running properly resulting in an excessive amount of emissions. Whatever the case may be to trigger the alert, taking your vehicle into Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs for a full diagnostic and tune-up is the best bet to ensure that your vehicle’s O2 sensor is in top performance.

What is an Oxygen Sensor or O2 Sensor?

Today’s computerized engine control systems rely on inputs from a variety of sensors to regulate engine performance, emissions and other important functions. The sensors must provide accurate information otherwise drivability problems, increased fuel consumption and emission failures can result. One of the key sensors in this system is the oxygen sensor. It’s often referred to as the “O2” sensor because O2 is the chemical formula for oxygen (oxygen atoms always travel in pairs, never alone).

The oxygen sensor, also known as a lambda sensor, was developed in the late 1960s by Dr. Gunter Bauman for the Robert Bosch GmbH company. This sensor is an electronic device used to measure the proportional amount of oxygen in a liquid or gas. The original oxygen sensor was made using ceramic coated zirconia and platinum. The first O2 sensor was introduced in 1976 on a Volvo 240. California vehicles got them next in 1980 when California’s emission rules required lower emissions. Federal emission laws made O2 sensors virtually mandatory on all cars and light trucks built since 1981. And now that OBD-II regulations are here (1996 and newer vehicles), many vehicles are now equipped with multiple O2 sensors. In order to make the O2 sensor more capable of mass production, planar oxygen sensors were developed. This modernized O2 sensor was developed by NTK in 1990 for use in the Honda Accord and Honda Civic car models. Made using layers of High-Temperature Cofired Ceramic (HTCC) green tapes, the current style of the sensor is made more efficient than the original style sensors.

What is the function of an Oxygen Sensor for your car?

Cars that were manufactured post-1980 feature an oxygen sensor. It is located within the emissions control system. When functioning, the O2 sensor sends data to the management computer located within the engine. In your car, a functioning O2 sensor ensures that your engine is running at top performance. Additionally, this sensor keeps your emissions in check and alerts you to when emissions are too excessive. For states that have vehicle inspection programs to regulate emissions, the use of the CEL and O2 light will alert officials to any excessive emissions. As a result, if one or more of your oxygen sensors is faulty during an emissions inspection for your car, you will most likely not pass the inspection.

The O2 sensor is mounted in the exhaust manifold to monitor how much unburned oxygen is in the exhaust as the exhaust exits the engine. Monitoring oxygen levels in the exhaust is a way of gauging the fuel mixture. It tells the computer if the fuel mixture is burning rich (less oxygen) or lean (more oxygen). A lot of factors can affect the relative richness or leanness of the fuel mixture, including air temperature, engine coolant temperature, barometric pressure, throttle position, air flow and engine load. There are other sensors to monitor these factors, too, but the O2 sensor is the master monitor for what’s happening with the fuel mixture. Consequently, any problems with the O2 sensor can throw the whole system out of whack.

Are there multiple Oxygen Sensors in a Car?

Cars with O2 sensors have a minimum of one sensor in front of the catalytic converter, as well as one in each of the car’s exhaust manifold. The actual number of oxygen sensors for a car depends on the year, make, model and engine. However, most of the later model vehicles have four oxygen sensors.

The number of sensors varies according to engine type:

V6 and V8 transverse have four oxygen sensors including a left or front bank upstream; right or rear bank upstream; rear of the engine; and a downstream sensor
4 and 6 cylinders in-line have three oxygen sensors including a front and rear bank upstream and a downstream sensor
Traditional V6 and V8 have three oxygen sensors including a left bank and right bank sensor upstream and a downstream O2 sensor
4 cylinder transverse has an upstream and a downstream O2 sensor

What are Oxygen Sensors Doing for Your Engine?

When a gasoline-powered engine burns gasoline there is oxygen present. Oxygen in an engine is the result of a number of factors including the air temperature, altitude, engine temperature, load on the engine, and barometric pressure. The ideal ratio for oxygen and gasoline is 14.7:1, which slightly varies depending on different types of gas. In the instance that there is less oxygen present fuel will remain after combustion, which is referred to as a rich mixture. On the other hand, if there is more oxygen present it is referred to as a lean mixture. Both the rich and lean mixtures are bad for your car, as well as for the environment. A rich mixture results in a fuel that is not burned that creates pollution. A lean mixture generates nitrogen-oxide pollutants, which can lead to decreased vehicle performance and engine damage. Oxygen sensors are positioned near points in the exhaust system so to determine if there are rich or lean mixtures in your car.

Typically, an O2 sensor creates a voltage due to a chemical reaction resulting from an off-balanced gasoline to oxygen ratio. Most car engines can determine how much fuel to expend into the engine based on the voltage of the O2 sensor. If your oxygen sensor fails to function properly, your engine management computer cannot determine the air to fuel ratio. Therefore, the engine is forced to guess how much gasoline to use, resulting in a polluted engine and a poorly functioning vehicle.

How do you test if your Oxygen Sensor is working properly?

There are two common ways to test your Oxygen Sensor which can include leaving it attached to your car or taking it off the vehicle. For an experienced mechanic it will require two main testing tools which include a high-impedance digital voltmeter and a backprobe. The first step to checking an O2 sensor is to locate the surrounding wires to make sure they are intact and without visible signs of wear and tear. Next, the vehicle must be started and allowed to run until the engine reaches 600 degrees F so to ensure an accurate reading of the sensor. Using the back probe and voltmeter, the oxygen sensor is measured at a set number of points and under particular conditions to determine any faulty measurements.

Testing the Oxygen sensor of your car generally requires a specialized amount of training and we highly recommend that you have an expert mechanic handle the testing of your cars Oxygen Sensor.

How To Jump A Car Battery

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:58:15 GMT

At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs our goal is to be your locally trusted auto repair experts to keep you and your car safely on the road. We also aim to educate our customers of common car issues they may face while on the road and the best advice to handle that situation.

So you’re leaving work and you realize you left your car lights on all day and now your vehicle won’t start. As a well prepared motorist we always suggest that you keep a reliable pair of jumper cables in your car for situations just like this. Having the right emergency equipment is the first important step. You also have to know how to use it. So, here is what you need to know about how to jump a car battery.

Being prepared with the right Jumper Cables

Jumper cables are long, thickly insulated cables with toothy clips on one or both ends. These clips are called alligator clips (because they look like alligator heads). The clips are distinguished by color, usually red and black, to indicate positive and negative polarity. The red clip is positive. The black clip is negative.

Jump boxes are portable batteries used to jump start a vehicle without connecting to another vehicle—come with special jump cables. These cables connect the jump battery directly to the dead car battery. Road side assistance usually uses a jump box when helping stalled vehicles.

Jumper cables are the most popular tool used to jump start cars because they are inexpensive and easy to store. Jumper cables usually come in a variety of lengths, ranging from 10-20 feet. Some people think longer cables are better so that you do not have to move a car with a dead battery. But, while longer cables provide convenience, they may lose power as the longer the cable, the farther the energy has to travel. The gauge of the cable denotes the strength of the cables. The lower the gauge, the thicker the cables and the stronger they are. Gauge six is a standard size for jumper cables.

Safety First When You Jump a Car Battery

You should consider all safety risks before performing any basic maintenance or repair on your car. First, make sure that small children are in a safe area away from the engine while you are establishing how to jump a dead car battery. Take a moment to read the manual of your car. Some vehicles require extra steps in order to have a successful jump. If you’re unsure of what to do, call Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs at (682) 357-4493 for advice. Assuming that your car will permit a jump, you should be careful to prevent dangerous electric shocks. When you handle the jumper cables, be aware that their function is to transmit electrical current from one car to another. Once one end of the jumper cables is connected to a car, do not touch the metal clamps to anything but the appropriate target. It’s highly recommended that you wear the proper safety protection gear such as safety classes to avoid possible sparks flying.

How to Jump a Car Battery

Step 1: To ensure that the car donating a charge (the donor car) is protected, take these precautions. Match the kind of voltage system of the donor battery to the dead battery to be jumped. For example, a 6V and a 12V should not be used together. A quick test that there is enough voltage for the donor, be sure that the car giving he jump start’s headlights are steady and bright when the car is started. If the headlights dim, that can signal that the battery is low.

Step 2: Park the vehicles next to each other. Park the functioning car so that the vehicles face each other, preferably only about 18 inches apart, but never touching each other. For automatic transmission cars, put the vehicle in park; for a manual transmission, set the vehicle to neutral. Set the parking brakes on both, so neither car moves unexpectedly.

Step 3: Both vehicles should be off. Set the parking brakes and remove the keys. Set down the jumper cables on the ground, making sure the clamps do not touch each other.

Step 4: Open the hood to both cars, and locate the batteries (refer to the owner’s manual for battery location) and battery terminals. Usually, the two terminals on each battery will be covered in red or black, with a + or – sign on top. Look at the batteries and make sure that you can identify which is positive, and which is negative. This distinction is crucial to the success of your jump. If the battery terminals are dirty, wipe them off with a rag or wire brush.

Step 5 : Attach the red, positive cable clamp to the positive (+) battery terminal of the dead battery. You want a solid connection to the battery terminal, which may require some initial wiggling of the clamps

Step 6: Attach the other red clamp to the positive terminal on the working battery. Attach the red, positive cable clamp on the other side of the jumper cables to the functioning vehicle’s positive (+) battery terminal.

Step 7: Attach the partnered black clamp to the negative terminal on the working battery. Connect the black, negative cable clamp to the working battery’s negative (-) battery terminal.

Step 8: Walk over to the car with the dead battery. Do not connect the black, negative cable clamp to the dead battery. Instead, attach that clamp to an unpainted, metal part of the car such as a shiny, clean nut on the engine block. This will help ensure a safe jump.

Step 9: Start the working vehicle. Wait a minute or so. Depending on the age of the battery and how long since it died, you may need to let the car run for a minute or two to get the jump to work.

Step 10: Try starting the dead car. If the car doesn’t start, allow the working vehicle to charge the battery for an additional minute or two before attempting again.

Step 11: If it doesn’t turn on, try revving the engine of the working vehicle. In some instances, slightly revving the engine of the working car while charging the dead battery may help.

Step 12: Once the dead car is running, you may disconnect the jumper cables, starting with the black, negative cable clamps. Do not let the clamps touch each other while any part of the cables is still attached to a car.

Take a short drive to help recharge the battery. This will allow the battery to build up a charge. This driving allows the vehicle’s alternator to charge the battery and ensures that your vehicle does not die again once you turn it off.

The vehicle with the dead battery should be allowed to run for 30 minutes if possible. This will let the alternator fully charge the battery. If your battery continues to lose a charge call Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs to perform a diagnostic test on your car battery.

What If Your Jump Start Doesn’t Work?

If the jump fails to start your car after a few short attempts, or if the car starts but then dies again, you have some other issues you need to address. Most batteries are rated to last 4-6 years. If your battery is old, you may need to replace it. If the battery should be working well, you should consider other possible problems with other components

Dealing with a dead car battery is a pain. Luckily, getting your car working again is not terribly difficult. By following these instructions, using your jumper cables sensibly, practicing safety and addressing other potential concerns, your car will run better, be safer, and last longer.

If you have questions about jumping your car or your vehicle won’t respond to a jump start give the experts at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs a call at (682) 357-4493 to answer your questions or to schedule an appointment for a full diagnostic test.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs – Car Radiator & Cooling System Experts

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Transmissions of Keller our technicians are the best trained in the industry with not only 20 years experience on new cars but also over 60 years experience in the automotive industry. Our goal is not only to provide the best product in the industry but also the best customer service available. A recent survey showed that over 95% of cars serviced with major repairs at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs are still in service with many reaching the 100,000 mile range without failure.

At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs we believe that getting the best value for your dollar is the most important part of any repair. That is why all of our services come with a minimum of a one year warranty and not the typical 90 days provided by most repair shops. We use only the highest quality parts available.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs is a full-service auto repair and preventive maintenance center. We are automatic and manual transmission experts. We provide transmission service and maintenance as well as transmission flush & filter service. We are conveniently located for your service and maintenance needs and we are qualified to repair and service all domestic and imported cars, trucks, and SUV’s using parts that are equal to or exceed the standards of those parts originally used by the manufacturers. We are definitely the cost-effective alternative to car dealership servicing for all scheduled maintenance of your personal or company auto, pickup or truck. Regardless of where it was built, we will service your car or truck and still maintain the manufacturer’s warranty. We honor most extended warranties.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs is independently owned and operated. We pride ourselves on getting the services or repairs on your auto right the first time by our highly qualified service technicians. So drop your auto, SUV, or truck off today and allow us to provide you with excellent service. We look forward to servicing your vehicle.

Keep Your Car Radiator & Cooling System Working This Summer

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:55:47 GMT

Summer is quickly approaching the Dallas/Fort Worth area and the summer heat is no joke for your car. Keeping your cars radiators and cooling system in proper working order is super important to ensure you’re not left stranded in the Texas Heat with a car that’s overheating. At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs we aim to be your locally trusted auto repair experts to help keep you and your family on the road safely this summer. Here is some important info to learn about your car radiator and cooling system.

The car radiator is one of the most misunderstood automotive components. This may be because a car radiator works so differently from a home radiator. The one in your home works essentially to warm up the immediate surroundings—but the one in your car does something a little different.

The Car Engine Cooling System

It’s actually an invaluable part of your engine cooling system. Of course, your engine both burns fuel and creates friction in order to give your car the juice it needs, and that causes a great deal of heat to build up. That heat needs to be diverted away from the engine, or else it could cause tremendous damage. The pistons in the engine would seize up and snap in two, and the engine would be broken down completely. That’s why engines have built-in, multi-part cooling systems. This includes an exhaust system, through which heat can escape. It also includes oil, which lubricates the engine parts and reduces the amount of friction. Even so, engines can get hot pretty quickly—and once they hit a certain temperature, the rest of the cooling system kicks in.

A typical 4 cylinder vehicle cruising along the highway at around 50 miles per hour, will produce 4000 controlled explosions per minute inside the engine as the spark plugs ignite the fuel in each cylinder to propel the vehicle down the road. Obviously, these explosions produce an enormous amount of heat and, if not controlled, will destroy an engine in a matter of minutes. Controlling these high temperatures is the job of the cooling system. The modern cooling system has not changed much from the cooling systems in the model T back in the ’20s. Oh sure, it has become infinitely more reliable and efficient at doing its job, but the basic cooling system still consists of liquid coolant being circulated through the engine, then out to the radiator to be cooled by the air stream coming through the front grill of the vehicle. Today’s cooling system must maintain the engine at a constant temperature whether the outside air temperature is 110 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 below zero. If the engine temperature is too low, fuel economy will suffer and emissions will rise. If the temperature is allowed to get too hot for too long, the engine will self-destruct from overheating.

What Happens When Your Car Radiator Kicks In

There are actually two types of cooling systems found on motor vehicles: Liquid cooled and Air cooled. Air cooled engines are found on a few older cars, like the original Volkswagen Beetle, the Chevrolet Corvair and a few others. Many modern motorcycles still use air cooling, but for the most part, automobiles and trucks use liquid cooled systems and that is what this article will concentrate on.

The cooling system is made up of the passages inside the engine block and heads, a water pump to circulate the coolant, a thermostat to control the temperature of the coolant, a radiator to cool the coolant, a radiator cap to control the pressure in the system, and some plumbing consisting of interconnecting hoses to transfer the coolant from the engine to radiator and also to the car’s heater system where hot coolant is used to warm up the vehicle’s interior on a cold day.

A cooling system works by sending a liquid coolant through passages in the engine block and heads. As the coolant flows through these passages, it picks up heat from the engine. The heated fluid then makes its way through a rubber hose to the radiator in the front of the car. As it flows through the thin tubes in the radiator, the hot liquid is cooled by the air stream entering the engine compartment from the grill in front of the car. Once the fluid is cooled, it returns to the engine to absorb more heat. The water pump has the job of keeping the fluid moving through this system of plumbing and hidden passages.

How the Car Radiator Works

A thermostat at the front of the engine detects when the engine reaches an unacceptable temperature. This triggers the release of water and coolant—both of which are held in the radiator.
This liquid combination picks up the heat generated by engine friction and burned fuel. It is then sent back into the radiator itself. The surface area is ample enough to let the coolant cool. Additionally, a fan positioned near it helps cool the coolant further.
Air from outside the car is brought in through vents, providing further cooling power. The coolant sufficiently cooled down, can then be sent back into the engine to pick up more heat.

What Happens When a Car Radiator Cooling System Stops Working Properly

The long and short of it is that your radiator plays a vital role in removing heat from your engine—thereby ensuring the engine can function properly, without risk of sudden breakdown. Over time, of course, various issues can prevent the cooling system from working properly. One common issue is that the thermostat, from which the coolant is released into the engine, becomes clogged and no longer opens. This is a significant problem: It means the engine can overheat and ultimately break down if you don’t have the problem corrected right away. An even more common reason for cooling system breakdown is a leak; leaks can cause coolant levels to become too low, which means there is not enough coolant to pick up the heat and remove it properly.

Certainly, if you notice fluid under your parked car and suspect a leak, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected and serviced right away. These problems can be serious, but spotting them quickly can lead to a more straightforward solution.

Is Your Car Radiator In Need of a Radiator Flush?

Anti-freeze, otherwise known as coolant, is the engine’s temperature-regulator. If you’ve ever had your engine overheat, you know how important it is to have the right amount of coolant. Think of your engine as producing a series of tiny explosions. The coolant is the fluid that keeps those explosions burning at the right temperature. The coolant keeps the engine warm in a brutal winter and cool during a blazing summer.

At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs we recommend as a general guideline to flush the car radiator anti-freeze once a year. This removes any rust or scale deposits and keeps coolant from becoming acidic. Acidic anti-freeze eventually wears down the very parts the cooling system intends to protect.

What are the Benefits of a Car Radiator Coolant Flush?

Old anti-freeze eventually loses its anti-corrosive properties, which allows for debris to build up in the cooling system. A coolant flush removes these rust and scale deposits. It’s important to get rid of contaminants because they can cause overheating and damage your entire cooling system.
Fresh coolant contains additives which lubricate and can extend the life of your cooling system. These additives also help prevent rust from building up, which allows the cooling system to operate more efficiently.
Bring your car into Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Automotive for a coolant flush and we’ll offer a courtesy inspection. During this comprehensive evaluation, we check the entire cooling system – including the thermostat, radiator, water pump, hoses and belts.
A coolant flush prevents the old anti-freeze from becoming acidic. Once coolant becomes acidic, it starts to eat away at the water pump, rubber hoses and aluminum components of the engine.

Overheating is one of the most common contributors to mechanical breakdowns for many car owners in the North Texas area. Overheating can cause severe damage to the engine and transmission. The expert mechanics at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs are here to keep your radiator, fluids and car cooling system in the best condition to keep you and your vehicle safely on the road.

What You Need To Know About Drivetrains

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:53:12 GMT

At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs we’re your local transmission experts for more than 60 years with a nationwide warranty. Many of our customers that are facing Transmission issues also experience drivetrains with problems. A drivetrain may be the least understood part of a vehicle. This is due to several factors, including the fact that the term “drivetrain” is often used interchangeably with powertrain and driveline. The drivetrain includes the transmission, the driveshaft, the axles, and the wheels. Simply put, it works in conjunction with the engine to move the wheels. The drivetrain system is an essential component of a vehicle and the transmission is an integral part of the drivetrain.’

What are the common types of Drivetrains?

AWD – All Wheel Drive

The all-wheel drivetrain system has fluid-filled differentials and advanced electronics enabling the engine to send power to all four wheels. This provides a vast and highly improved capability for driving on wet or slippery roads. Examples of vehicles with AWD include the Ford Fusion, Nissan Rogue, BMW 3-Series, Honda CR-V and Audi A4.

RWD – Rear Wheel Drive

With rear-wheel drive, all of the engine’s power is sent to the back two wheels. Opposite of cars with FWD, a car with RWD is being pushed down the road. This does not work well in areas with icy winters because the level of traction is low. Despite this, RWD provides balance and offers superior braking and handling. Common RWD vehicles in Texas include the Ford Mustang, Lexus IS, Chevrolet Camaro and the BMW 5-Series. In rear-wheel drivetrain arrangements, power is transferred to the rear wheels to move the car. It’s the drivetrain arrangement that’s been around the longest and is still used today on many cars and trucks.

FWD – Front Wheel Drive

A car or truck with front-wheel drive has all of the engine’s power being sent to the two front wheels, so the drivetrain is basically pulling the car down the road. This serves to give the car more traction, providing stability, predictability and dependability when the roads get a little icy. Popular FWD vehicles include the Honda Civic, Volkswagen Golf, Mini Cooper, Toyota Corolla and the Honda Accord.

Front-wheel drivetrains have the same basic set-up as rear-wheel drivetrains, but the parts are a bit different:

Transaxle – Instead of a transmission, most front-wheel drivetrains have a transaxle. A transaxle combines the transmission and differential into one single unit. If you have a front-wheel drive car and you want to earn Car Guy bonus points, don’t refer to your transmission as a transmission, but as a transaxle.

While most cars that use transaxles mount them right next to the engine, some sports cars use transaxles on rear-wheel drive trains for even weight distribution.

Half-shaft – Because all the components of the drivetrain are in the front of the car, front-wheel drive vehicles don’t need long drive shafts to transfer torque to the wheels. Instead, a half-shaft connects from the transaxle to the wheel assembly.

In place of U-joints, half-shafts connect the transaxle and the wheel assembly with constant velocity joints, or CV-joints. CV-joints use a ball bearing mechanism to reduce friction and allow for the more complex wheel movements used in front-wheel drive cars — remember, front-wheel drive cars not only have to move the car forward, but also steer it left and right.

4WD – 4 Wheel Drive

The four-wheel drivetrain is similar to AWD in that the engine’s power is sent to all four wheels. However, 4WD is typically more robust because it’s designed to handle off-road driving. Some of the most common 4WD vehicles in Texas include the Range Rover, Ford F-150, Ford f-250.

The Drivetrain & Transmission

The drivetrain and the transmission are actually two very different concepts. The main function of the transmission is similar to the chain on a bicycle: it keeps the engine turning in time with the wheels, regardless of what gear the vehicle is in. The drivetrain represents everything that is behind the transmission involved in propelling the vehicle. The main function of the drivetrain is basically to convey power from the vehicle’s engine, through the transmission to the drive wheels on the vehicle to control the amount of torque. “Torque” is turning or twisting force.

What are the Parts of a Drivetrain?

The drivetrain is comprised of a collection of components in a vehicle that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels/ drive it forward. These components include the driveshaft, CV joints, the differential, the axle shafts and the U-joints.

Driveshaft – is a long tube of steel that is linked to a car’s transmission at one end and the wheels at the other. It transfers the mechanical power from the transmission to the other components of the vehicle.

U-Joint, or Universal Joint – is a flexible pivot point that transmits power allowing for varying angles of the driveshaft.

CV Joints, or Constant-Velocity Joints – are part of the driveshaft. These joints are designed to be able to bend in any direction while continuing to turn the drive wheels at a constant velocity.

The differential is where the power makes its last stop before spinning the wheels.

Axle Shafts – are a single rotating shaft, on either side of the differential, which delivers power from the final drive assembly to the drive wheels.

Technicians sometimes refer to driveline, drivetrain and powertrain interchangeably when referring to the drivetrain system of an automobile. This can cause confusion, but in essence, all of these terms describe the same system within the vehicle.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs – Dallas/Fort Worth Drivetrains Trusted Mechanics

Don’t let common Drivetrain problems leave you without a vehicle or with even more costly repairs. The first sign of vibrations from underneath the vehicle, abnormal noises turning problems or shuddering during acceleration you need to contact Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs and schedule an immediate checkup and transmission diagnostic with our team of expert mechanics. You depend on your car, and when it stops running, you need a reliable repair at a reasonable price to get you back on the road as soon as possible. At Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs Transmission and Auto Repair of Keller, we live up to our nearly 60 years as the most trusted name in transmission repair with quality, guaranteed work at a fair price. You will never get unnecessary repairs, nor will you get less than you need or inferior, junkyard parts. When you leave Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs, you know your repairs will be backed by a no-questions-asked nationwide warranty—the strongest nationwide warranty in the industry.

What To Do If Your Car’s AC Isn’t Cooling

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:50:02 GMT

The summer is quickly approaching for DFW Texas and with the increase in temperatures comes the need for a reliable Air Conditioning system for your car. When the heat starts to approach North Texas many drivers find their A/C isn’t cooling properly. The expert mechanics at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs are here to provide some insight into some of the most common problems we see for drivers in the Keller and Fort Worth area facing air conditioning issues with their vehicle.

Reason #1: Your Vehicle's AC Fan has Stopped Working

There is a fan in your cars air conditioning system that pushes air through the vents. If your fan isn’t working, your system can’t blow cool air. It can be as simple as a bad wire or as serious as a fan in need of replacement, but your A/C fan can require your entire dashboard to be taken apart. This can be difficult replacement for many auto owners and people that attempt to do it themselves can risk damaging their interior or dashboard. We always suggest bringing your car into Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs to ensure that your AC fan’s failure can be properly diagnosed.

Reason #2: Your Car’s AC has a Leak

Cars that have a leak in their AC systems are not an uncommon issue for many owners, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Your Vehicle uses a refrigerant known as Freon in your air conditioning system, but when it leaks out of your cooling system, your car will have nothing to dispel heat with. Freon can leak out slowly over time or may drain more quickly out of a larger opening.

If you notice fluid under your car, it’s time to schedule an appointment with our trustworthy mechanics at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. A fluid leak can indicate that you’re A/C is leaking, but it also can be the sign of a much more serious problem. If you notice a leak and your air conditioning isn’t cold give Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs a call for us to schedule an appointment to perform a diagnostic on you cars AC system to see if it’s need of Freon replacement.

Reason #3: Your Car’s AC Compressor Won’t Engage

A compressor uses refrigerant to dispel heat and cool the airflow into your car. If there is an electrical fault in your A/C system, your Freon is low, or your vehicle is overheating, the computer in your car may automatically shut off the compressor to protect the system from damage. If there’s an issue in your engine, the air conditioning system is one of the first systems to be shut off making a terrible situation even harder for many owners.

If this occurs, it can be a sign of other issues. The mechanics at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs can check your car for other problems, including electrical issues and overheating issues, to narrow down what could be causing your compressor to shut off or not properly engage.

Reason #4: The Blend Air Door is Stuck

When you switch your car’s climate control from heat to A/C, there is a small door inside your AC’s ventilation system that moves to allow heated or cooled air into the system. This part of the AC system is known as the blend air door, and it can cause a lot of problems with your heating and cooling when it gets stuck. If this door won’t move, your system may continue to blow hot air from the engine, even when you have it switched to air conditioning. This is something that should be checked by a qualified mechanic like the experts at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. Should this be the case we can replace your blend air door easily. So contact us to today to schedule an appointment if you’re experiencing any issues with your car’s Air Conditioning system.

What Does An Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Do?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:47:39 GMT

Your car’s Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor plays a vital role in keeping your cars engine in optimal heat range and not allowing your car to continue to operate above the cars warning level without notifying the driver on the instrument panel of a potential issue. The heat in Texas is no joke in the summer and the team of locally trusted experts at Aamco of Keller are here to keep you and your vehicle on the road safely this summer. Maintaining a level of car tune-ups and preventive maintenance can help catch these potential issues ahead of major repairs.

You may not know when your car could be getting ready to overheat but hopefully your vehicle coolant temperature sensor does. The sensor keeps tabs on the operating temperature and alerts the on-car computer when there’s a potential problem.

How the does the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Work?

The coolant temperature sensor (CTS) can be found somewhere near the engine thermostat, which allows it to function optimally. The tip of the CTS is probably located right next to the engine coolant.

The sensor works by measuring the temperature that’s being given off by the thermostat and/or the coolant itself. The temperature is then sent to the on-board control system. From there, your vehicle’s computer will use this temperature information to either continue operating or adjust certain engine functions, always working to keep the engine temperature at an ideal level.

As the control system receives the temperature from the CTS, it may trigger the cooling fan to either shut off or turn on. Additionally, it may signal the need for a richer fuel mixture or open the exhaust gas recirculation.

What happens when a Car’s Engine Coolant Temperature System begins to fail?

As with any other component in your car, the sensor can go bad over time and fall into disrepair. This can cause a range of problems, including overheating the engine.

If you know where the engine sensor is and what it looks like, you can conduct a visual inspection to see if it has developed any cracks or fissures. While this visual check can be helpful, it won’t help you diagnose every possible problem as some sensor malfunctions can present without visual evidence.

If your sensor is not working, it will send a signal to the computer and your Check Engine light will be illuminated. If you see the Check Engine sign light up, take your car in for professional servicing right away.

Replacing the Car Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

The sensor will eventually need to be replaced altogether after time. If the engine sustains any kind of trauma or damage, sensor replacement is always recommended because you don’t want to risk running the vehicle with a faulty one. Even general wear and tear can cause the sensor to erode over time.

You can always have your Car Temperature Sensor replaced by the trusted auto care professionals at Aamco of Keller. Preventative maintenance can certainly save you some headaches and hassle in the long run.

Aamco of Keller Your Car’s Engine Coolant Temperature System Experts

Keeping you and your family safely on the road is important to us at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. If you believe you’re facing potential issues with your car’s engine coolant temperature system, let one of our expert Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs technicians correctly diagnose your vehicles issue.

Have your engine coolant temperature system inspected by the locally trusted experts at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs.

What Does It Mean When Your Check Engine Light Is On?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:45:54 GMT

The dreaded Check Engine Light just appeared on your dashboard out of nowhere. Or, you’ve seen it flashing on and off a few times before and maybe you just hoped it would go away by itself.

Your Check Engine Light functions to help ensure your safety on the road.

The light coming on is really just an early warning signal from one of your car’s computers that it notices something is not right that could potentially cause damage to your vehicle, pollute the air, etc. if not taken care of quickly. It’s important to find out exactly what the light is trying to tell you.

When your car’s Check Engine Light comes on, it could mean a lot of different things are happening within your vehicle.

Issues can range from a weak oxygen sensor, to anti-lock braking system trouble or a more costly problem, like an engine or transmission issue. It could also simply be something very minor, like a loose or missing gas cap.

This system will also produce codes that can be retrieved by Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs’s technicians that will tell them just what system or circuit is seeing the problem. Oftentimes, it may take more in-depth testing to pinpoint exactly what in that identified circuit or system is at fault. Without professional testing of the components in the circuit, you could be throwing costly parts at the problem without actually repairing the real problem.

When you see your Check Engine Light come on, the most important thing you can do is to get a correct diagnosis at our Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs auto repair shop to see what is triggering the light on or flashing as soon as possible.

Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs can help you whenever your Check Engine Light comes on.

Our team of expert mechanics at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs will retrieve the codes and tell you what system has caused the light to come on and what will be required to turn the light off.

Your safety on the road is important to us at Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs. If your Check Engine Light is on near Keller and the Fort Worth Area, let one of our expert Keller-Alliance Auto Repairs technicians correctly diagnose your vehicle.

Common Safety Tips For Spring Road Trips

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 08:43:52 GMT

For those who do have kiddos heading out on the highways—or for anyone traveling during the spring break season—here are five simple tips for staying safe.cars

1. Avoid Night Driving

Many road-trippers set off in the evening so they can arrive at their destination in the morning and enjoy a full first day of fun; however, 50 percent of fatal crashes happen at night. Night driving has its own set of risks, two of the most obvious being darkness and fatigue.

Ninety percent of a driver’s reaction depends on vision, and vision is severely limited at night. Depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision are also worse at night. Fatigue and drowsiness pose substantial risks as concentration and reaction time are impaired. In a worse-case scenario, drivers may even fall asleep and lose control of their vehicle.

Avoid driving at night if possible. If you must drive at night:

Drive with a group of friends. Take frequent turns driving and talk with each other to reduce fatigue and drowsiness.
Slow down and keep a larger following distance. Reaction time slows at night and it is more difficult to judge speed and distance after dark.
Make frequent stops. Get out of your vehicle to increase blood flow and circulation and reduce drowsiness.
If you are sleepy or drowsy, quit driving and rest.

2. Wear Your Seat Belt

Seat belts only save lives when they fit and are worn properly. Though rare, some vehicles on the road still use two-point “lap-belt only” seat belts in the rear center position. If your vehicle has a lap-belt only restraint, avoid sitting in that position unless absolutely necessary. Three-point “lap-shoulder belt” restraints are far more effective at preventing injury than lap-belts alone.

When driving long distances, it is tempting to adjust your seat belt for comfort by incorporating some slack in the belt or even positioning the shoulder belt behind your back. However, these adjustments can make your seat belt completely ineffective and cause severe injury in a collision.

The lap portion of your three-point belt should fit snugly across the bony structures of your hips and pelvis. The shoulder portion should be snug and cross your body at your sternum (breast bone) and shoulder. Make sure to adjust your belt so that it fits properly. Never let the seat belt cross over your neck and never tuck the shoulder belt behind you.

3. Do Not Recline Your Seat

How many of you have reclined your seat during a long road trip? Did you know that if your car seat is reclined, your seat belt essentially becomes useless?

Most passengers simply do not understand the dangers of reclined seats because they assume they are safe if buckled. More space between the seat belt and your body increases the risk of death or serious injury during a collision because your body either slams against the seat belt or “submarines” and slides underneath it.

Car makers have have known about the dangers of reclined seats for at least five decades but have done little to warn motorists. Warnings for this danger are difficult to find because they are likely listed in the back of a several hundred-page owner’s manual. Manufacturers could incorporate a simple light or bell reminding passengers to stay upright (much like a seat belt warning light or chime), but no manufacturer has chosen to incorporate this important safety feature.

4. Check Your Tires

Tires are one of the most important – and most overlooked – safety components on your vehicle. There are many factors that can compromise tire safety, including tire age, poor tread wear and depth, and improper inflation.

Older or “aged” tires are a hidden danger because they can fail even if the tread depth is proper and even if they have never been used before. Aged tires can look perfectly fine on the outside but fail at any time. Tires have a safe useful life of no more than six years. Tire makers and car companies have known of the “aged” tire danger for decades but have done little to warn motorists. Tires do not contain an expiration date and it is nearly impossible for an ordinary person (and even some tire specialists) to determine the actual age of a tire because of the archaic codes used.

Have your tire pressure checked before starting your trip and make sure your vehicle has had the alignment checked. Over-inflated tires can lose grip or burst. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, leading to lower gas-mileage and creating excess heat that can lead to catastrophic tire failure, including a blow out or tread separation.

5. Avoid Distracted Driving

Anything that takes your attention away from driving is a distraction—sending a test message, talking on a cell phone, using a navigation system or eating while driving are distractions that can endanger the driver and vehicle occupants.

Every year, almost half a million people in the U.S. are injured or killed in traffic accidents attributed to texting and driving. At least 47 states and Washington, D.C. have made texting while driving illegal, and the use of cell phones while driving is banned in at least 15 states. Find out how the laws are enforced in the states through which you will be driving.

Even if a state has not outlawed cell phone use or texting while driving, avoid this activity. Studies have shown an increase in collisions and accidents while using these devices.

Stay Safe

If you’re loading up your vehicle with friends and family for a spring break road trip, be sure to check critical safety items before hitting the road. A simple safety check could mean the difference between a spring break that is memorable for fun or tragedy. Travel safe.