Chico Auto Repair

All engines have either a timing belt or a timing chain to synchronize the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.  This keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently.  If the timing is off, it may not run at all.  Timing belts need to be replaced on a schedule.  A broken or slipping timing belt could cause extensive engine damage. Timing chains are being used more and more in modern engines.  They are more durable and usually do not have a recommended replacement interval.  However, timing chains and their associated components do wear over time.  The tensioner and guide rails can wear causing the chain to be loose.  A tooth on a cam sprocket could break allowing the chain to slip.  You don’t want to wait for a complete failure (and possible extensive damage) so you need to watch for the signs of impending failure.  You may notice sluggish performance, reduced fuel economy, or difficulty starting when the timi ... read more

Air and fuel are mixed together to be burned in your engine. You request how much of each you need by how hard you press on the accelerator, by going up or down a hill or by how much you are carrying in your vehicle as your drive around CHICO. Based on how much air you need – and how much is available – your engine management computer sends the needed amount of fuel to your engine. But what if the computer is getting the wrong information about how much air is coming into your engine? Well, it would send get the wrong amount of fuel and your engine wouldn't perform the way you need it to. The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor measures the volume, temperature and density of the air coming into your engine. With that information, the computer calculates how much oxygen is available to burn and adjusts the amount of fuel it sends. A dirty or damaged MAF sensor will provide inaccurate air flow readings, which can lead to drivability problems, damage your catalytic converter, set ... read more

Photo by Arek Socha from Pixabay At D&E Auto Repair in Chico, we believe in helping our community, one car repair at a time. But we appreciate that not everyone is as into car service and maintenance as we are. Over the years, many car owners have asked questions about preventive maintenance, repairs, and other issues concerning their vehicles. That is why we assembled this list of frequently asked questions. Here are the top 10 FAQ's we receive from our Chico neighbors about auto repair: How do I know what the tire pressure of my tires is supposed to be? It's conveniently printed on a sticker on the inside of the driver's seat door for you.  What is the difference between timi ... read more