Why you should pay attention to “check engine light” warnings

By Brian England

When a VW came in running badly with the “check engine light” on we started the diagnostics by scanning the computer for data. To our surprise, we discovered a long shopping list of codes. Since this was the car’s first visit to the shop, we performed a baseline check of the entire car. There were a few other issues not indicated by the initial scan, including a large oil leak.

Since there were so many codes, we decided to clear the codes to see what codes came back during the second scan. It turned out the engine crank case breathing system was blocked and required the cleaning and resealing of the camshaft cover and related parts. After we corrected this, most of the codes did not come back on, except for a code that related to the engine breathing system.

We double checked everything to see if everything still looked good. Since we still had not found the oil leak issue, we searched the vehicle database for any pattern failures related to this issue and found one talked about the rear main oil seal failing. Could this be the culprit?

After getting permission to remove the transmission to inspect the rear main seal, we found the issue (see photo above). The seal had come apart. The rear main seal on most cars is a complex thick rubber seal with a spring that keeps pressure on the crankshaft, leaving nothing to chance but this was a flimsy little seal that just fell apart. We installed the new seal, reinstalled the transmission, reran the diagnostics and the “check engine light” codes related to the engine breathing system stayed off.

“Check Engine Light” repairs normally relate to electronic sensors failing. In this case, however, the issue was a failed crankcase seal.

By Brian England

Throughout the history of auto repair,  a lot of importance has been placed on getting an oil change every 3000 miles.  Quick Lube shops are now prevalent and accepted in the industry, which makes getting an oil change convenient. However, here is the big question: Is getting oil service on your car every 3000 miles all the preventive car maintenance you need?  

The answer is a resounding NO.  A simple check of your vehicle’s service manual recommendations versus the services offered at a quick lube shop is all the evidence you need to learn that the services offered by your local quick lube is not a true preventive car maintenance program. To get the level of care your car needs to keep it running smoothly and efficiently, you need the services of a certified auto repair shop. Chances are, even if you are getting other things checked and fluids topped off at a quick oil and lube place, some important safety items are likely being overlooked.

Most quick lube places offer an oil service package that includes an oil & filter change, a check of critical fluids (with a top off) and a few other items.  There are some critical systems that need to be checked frequently and thoroughly that are not usually included on the quick lube check list.  Here are the major ones:

1. Brakes – A critical safety system on your car, most quick lube shops simply check the fluid level.  However, in addition to checking the fluid level at regular intervals, your brake pads and discs, lining and drums, brake lines, parking brakes, front and rear axle boots, and axle shaft joints need to be inspected.
2. Tires – Some quick lubes check your tire pressures, but what about the actual tires.  The condition of the tires needs to be inspected at least annually, not just the tread thickness, but age as well has rotating the tires and inspecting the whole contact surface and the walls of the tire.  Also, your tires should be rotated regularly.  This is not a part of the standard quick lube oil change service.
3. Steering and Suspension – Most manufacturers recommend that the steering and suspension be checked at regular intervals – particularly if your vehicle is used under severe driving conditions.  To check the steering, there must be a road test.  When was the last time your quick lube shop took your vehicle out for a road test?

Be sure your car is getting the right level of care at the right service intervals.  It’s critical for your safety!