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Brake, Engine & Transmission Services

Are there situations where I would have to fix the entire car?

It is possible that, if you’ve been involved in a collision, there is some hidden damage in the engine and transmission, or undercarriage, which would require more extensive repairs. 

What's the Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts?

At a good auto mechanic in Vaughan, one of the questions you will probably get asked most is whether to use OEM or aftermarket parts for your vehicle. The quick answer: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same company that produces your car, and aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies. Both have pros and cons, depending on what you can afford and need.

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM parts are parts built by the same company that produced the original parts for your vehicle. They're typically the same thing that went into your vehicle when it was assembled at the factory, with a perfect fit and compatibility guaranteed.

Advantages of OEM Parts:

  • Guaranteed fit and performance
  • Backed by manufacturer warranties
  • Installed by dealerships or certified technicians

Disadvantages of OEM Parts:

  • More expensive than aftermarket solutions
  • Not widely available in some situations

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers. While they're not made by the automaker, numerous options are as effective. They're less costly, so buying aftermarket parts is a cost-effective option.

Advantages of Aftermarket Parts:

  • Less costly
  • More choices of options and brands
  • Easily accessible

Disadvantages of Aftermarket Parts:

  • Fit and quality may be inconsistent
  • May not be under a warranty

Which Should You Use?

OEM or aftermarket part selection depends on your car, driving habits, and budget. For professional advice and high-quality service, rely on Modern Automotive, your car mechanic of choice in Vaughan, to assist you in making the most suitable decision for your car.

Should You Drive Car with Check Engine Light On

If your check engine light comes on, it is a good idea to have your vehicle in for car repair in Vaughan as soon as possible. While it does not always mean an emergency, failure to address it can lead to costly repairs or dangerous driving conditions.

Understanding What the Check Engine Light Means

The check engine light is part of your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system. When it illuminates, it indicates that something has been detected by the car's computer that needs to be addressed. The problem can range from a loose gas cap to a serious engine or emissions system malfunction.

When It's Safe to Drive

If your check engine light is steady and your vehicle is operating normally, it's usually safe to drive temporarily. But you must still get an inspection performed eventually to avoid further harm. A loose or damaged gas cap, a bad oxygen sensor, and bad spark plugs are some non-critical reasons that could trigger this. These issues reduce gas mileage and increase emissions, but they are not a danger immediately.

When to Stop Driving Immediately

If the check engine light flashes, or if the vehicle begins to shake, lose its power, or make strange noises, pull over immediately and turn off the engine. A flashing light typically indicates that there's a misfire that can cause extensive damage to the catalytic converter. Driving in this situation can cause more expensive repairs.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore It

Even though your car may seem fine, ignoring the check engine light can cause some long-term harm. Minor issues that are not fixed may develop into complete mechanical failures. Catching them early and fixing them not only saves you money, but it also keeps you and others safe on the roads.

Get Expert Help from Modern Automotive

Don't bet on your vehicle's health. For reliable car repair in Vaughan, trust the competent mechanics at Modern Automotive. We'll identify the issue and fix it effectively and professionally to get you back on the road safely.

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When Should You Replace Your Brakes

If you ever asked yourself, "When should you replace your brakes?" the short answer is: whenever you notice wear or reduced braking capacity. Your brakes are critical to your safety, and neglecting them can lead to costly repairs or even dangerous driving conditions. For experienced advice and accurate inspections, it's a good idea to visit a certified mechanic in Vaughan, like the trustworthy technicians at Modern Automotive.

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

Brakes are also made to show signs when they begin to wear out. These signs include:

  • Squealing or grinding noise when you apply the brakes
  • Stopping distance is further
  • Vibrating or pulsating brake pedal
  • Brake warning light on your dashboard
  • Pulling to one side when you're braking

If you notice any of these, it's time to get your brakes inspected by a professional.

Mileage Isn't Everything

Although most manufacturers suggest brake pads be replaced after every 50,000 kilometres (approximately 30,000 miles), this can differ significantly based on your driving, terrain, and vehicle. Braking is more wear-and-tear in city driving with plenty of stopping than it is on highways. That's why regular checks are important.

Regular Maintenance Prevents Bigger Problems

Waiting until the brakes need to be replaced will ultimately damage other components like rotors or callipers, which are more expensive to have repaired. Routine inspections by a qualified technician maintain your braking system in top condition.

Count on Modern Automotive for Your Brake Repair

If you're not sure if it's time for a replacement, schedule a brake inspection with Modern Automotive. Our qualified mechanics provide honest evaluations and quality work to get you safely back on the road. Don't let a small problem turn into a big one. Stop by Modern Automotive today.

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Can an Auto Mechanic in Vaughan Fix Your Check Engine Light?

Yes, an auto mechanic in Vaughan can diagnose and fix your check engine light issue. Whether it's an easy sensor failure or a more serious engine problem, Vaughan-certified mechanics have the tools and training to fix it correctly.

Your vehicle's check engine light is part of the onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II). When it comes on, it's alerting you that something is wrong. It could be one of a number of issues, including:

  • Defective oxygen sensors
  • Loose or cracked gas caps
  • Broke catalytic converters
  • Ignition coil or spark plug problems
  • Mass airflow sensor issues

Even though your vehicle seems to be running fine, neglecting the light can result in inferior performance or costly long-term damage.

Why You Need a Professional Diagnosis

Modern cars are highly computerized, and they require advanced diagnostic equipment to translate the error codes. Your auto mechanic in Vaughan will connect your vehicle to a scan tool to retrieve error codes and determine the problem. Then they can perform a thorough examination and make appropriate repairs.

Rely on Modern Automotive for Fast, Efficient Service

At Modern Automotive, our certified mechanics are check engine diagnostic and repair specialists. We use the latest technology to accurately diagnose what is behind your check engine light and fix it the first time. Don't let a small issue turn into an expensive repair.

Schedule your diagnostic service today by calling Modern Automotive. Drive with confidence.
 

How Worn Should Brake Pads Be Before Replacing?

When it comes to brake replacement, knowing how worn your brake pads should be before you change them is crucial for your safety and vehicle performance. As a general guideline, brake pads should be replaced when the friction material has worn out to approximately 3 millimetres (mm) or less. Driving on pads that are thinner than this can reduce stopping power and cause damage to your rotors, which can result in more expensive repairs.

Warning Signs It's Due for Replacement

Even without taking measurements of pad thickness, there are telltale signs that your brake pads are too worn:

  • Squealing or squeaking sounds: Many brake pads come equipped with a wear indicator that gives off a high-pitched sound when replacement is necessary.
  • Grinding sound: If you hear grinding, your pads may already be down to the metal, damaging your rotors.
  • Longer stopping distance: If your vehicle is taking longer to stop than it used to, worn pads could be the problem.
  • Vibrating brake pedal: Worn pads will produce pulsations or vibration when you press the brake pedal.

Why On-Time Replacement is Important

Neglecting brake pad wear doesn't just endanger your safety; it affects the whole braking process. Rotors, callipers, and even tires can absorb additional stress when pads are neglected. Timely replacement of brakes secures performance, prevents expensive repairs, and gives you peace of mind every time you drive.

Schedule Your Brake Service Today

If you feel your brake pads are going to reach the expiration period soon, do not wait for it to be a big problem. Contact Modern Automotive for professional brake replacement and brake system checks to make your car safe and reliable.

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What’s the Difference Between Replacing Brake Pads and Brake Rotors?

When it comes to brake replacement, one of the most common questions drivers ask is whether they need to replace their brake pads, rotors, or both, and what the difference is. In brief, brake pads and brake rotors are two different but closely connected parts of your vehicle's braking system. The brake pads supply the friction to decelerate the wheels, and the brake rotors (also called brake discs) are the surfaces that the pads clamp onto to stop the car. Both wear out with time, but the rate of wear and the signs of wear are not the same.

Understanding Brake Pads

Brake pads are made up of friction material like ceramic, metallic, or organic materials. They rub against the rotors whenever you apply the brakes, producing the friction that brings your car to a halt. Over and over, this friction naturally wears down the pads, resulting in reduced stopping power, squealing, or longer braking distance. Pads are usually the first to go bad and are less expensive to replace.

Understanding Brake Rotors

Brake rotors, on the other hand, are the metal discs that are attached to your wheel hubs. Warping, cracking, or uneven wearing out of the rotors can result from repeated contact with worn-out pads, excessive heat, or abusive driving conditions. In that case, you will feel vibrations when braking or grinding noises. Resurfacing or replacing rotors and adding new pads makes the braking process efficient and smooth.

Should You Replace Both?

A full brake replacement typically includes pads and rotors on both sides for even performance and safety. Replacing them together offers even wear, better braking performance, and a longer lifespan for your new components.

If you’re unsure which service your vehicle needs, visit Modern Automotive, our experienced technicians can inspect your braking system, explain the condition of your pads and rotors, and recommend the most cost-effective solution to keep your car safe and reliable.

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