Understanding what the ABS light means — and how quickly you should act — can help keep you safe on the road and prevent more expensive repairs later on.

Related article: Understanding Your Car’s Warning Lights: A Complete Guide

What Does the ABS Warning Mean?

The ABS light indicates a problem within your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system. This system helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking and allows you to maintain steering control in emergency situations.

When the ABS light is on:

• Your regular brakes usually still work
• Your ABS function may be disabled
• Emergency braking performance may be reduced

Your vehicle’s computer has detected a problem and stored a diagnostic trouble code that needs to be read with professional scanning tools.

What Causes the ABS Light to Come On?

Common causes of an illuminated ABS light include:

• Faulty wheel speed sensors (one of the most common causes)
• Bad ABS module or pump
• Low or contaminated brake fluid
• Damaged wiring or electrical connectors
• Blown fuse or relay
• Battery or charging system issues

Because the anti-lock braking system is electronically controlled, even small electrical problems can trigger the warning light.

What Are the Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Anti-lock Braking System?

In addition to the ABS light itself, drivers may notice:

• Wheels locking up during hard braking
• Increased stopping distance on wet or slippery roads
• Loss of steering control during emergency stops
• Brake pedal pulsation or unusual braking behavior
• Traction control or stability control lights also turning on

If any of these symptoms occur, your vehicle’s braking safety may be compromised.

Is It Still Safe to Drive With the ABS Light On?

In many cases, yes — but only for short-term, cautious driving.

• Normal braking may still feel fine.
• The anti-lock braking system will likely not activate in emergencies.
• Slippery or panic-stop situations become more dangerous.

Driving long-term with the ABS light on is not recommended, especially in traffic or poor weather conditions.

Related video: 

How Much Does It Typically Cost to Fix a Problem with Your Anti-lock Braking System?

The cost to repair an ABS light can be anywhere from $200 to upwards of $1,000, depending primarily on the cause:

• ABS sensor replacement: Often on the lower end
• Wiring or electrical repairs: Moderate cost
• ABS module or pump replacement: Higher cost

The best way to control repair costs is early diagnosis. For example, catching a failing sensor early on is far less expensive than replacing major ABS components later.

What Should You Do When Your ABS Light Comes On?

First, it’s important to not panic. Even though the light is on, your brakes will typically still work but you should:

1. Avoid aggressive braking.
2. Schedule a professional brake inspection as soon as possible.
3. Address the issue before it affects overall brake performance.

Ignoring the ABS light won’t make it go away and could significantly impact your driving safety.

Schedule Expert Diagnostics at Good Works Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ

If your ABS light is on, the experienced technicians here at our Tempe auto repair shop can help. At Good Works Auto Repair, we provide:

• Advanced ABS diagnostics
• Honest repair recommendations
• Quality parts and professional workmanship
• Complete brake and safety system inspections

Don’t leave your driving safety to chance. Schedule your appointment today and restore confidence in your braking system so you can continue to drive smoothly AND safely.

The post Is Your Car’s ABS Light On? Here’s What It Means, What Caused It, and What to Do Next appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

At Good Works Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ, we’re here to support college students with expert auto repair, student discounts, and a free shuttle service to and from our shop. But that’s not all. Today, we’re going to explain five essential car care tips to keep your vehicle in top shape while you’re navigating college life.

5 Essential Car Care Tips for College Students

1. Stay on Top of Oil Changes

Your car’s engine is like the heart of your vehicle, and regular oil changes keep it healthy. Dirty oil can cause engine wear, reduce fuel efficiency, and lead to costly repairs. Aim for an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Check your owner’s manual for specifics.

At Good Works Auto Repair, we offer student discounts on oil changes, making it affordable to keep your engine running smoothly. Plus, our free shuttle service means you can drop off your car and get back to campus without missing class.

Watch this video to see what happens when you put off oil changes for too long!

2. Check Your Tires Regularly

Whether driving to or from college, your tires take a beating on Arizona’s hot roads. Low tire pressure can reduce fuel efficiency and increase the risk of a blowout. On the other hand, worn treads can make driving unsafe, especially during monsoon season. Check your tire pressure monthly (find the recommended PSI on the driver’s side door jamb) and inspect for uneven wear or damage. If you need tire repair or replacement, we provide honest pricing and student-friendly discounts to ensure your tires are road-ready.

3. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights

That check engine light or low battery warning on your dashboard? It’s not just a suggestion—it’s your car trying to tell you something’s wrong. Ignoring it could lead to bigger problems, like a dead battery during finals week or a breakdown on the way to class.

Our certified technicians at Good Works Auto Repair use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint issues quickly and provide a clear explanation of the repairs needed. We also offer a written estimate and the best warranty in the business, so you and your parents can feel confident. Plus, we’re happy to discuss repairs with parents over the phone and accept credit card payments for added convenience.

Watch this video to learn why you should NEVER ignore dashboard warning lights!

4. Keep Up with Routine Vehicle Maintenance

Routine maintenance, like replacing air filters, checking brake pads, and inspecting belts and hoses, can prevent unexpected breakdowns. For students juggling tight schedules, we make it easy at Good Works Auto Repair. Our shop, conveniently located near ASU and MCC, offers flexible appointment times and a free shuttle service to get you to and from campus while we service your car. We also provide refillable gift cards—perfect for parents who want to ensure their student’s car stays in top shape without the hassle of coordinating payments.

Related article: Understanding the Hidden Costs of Skipping Routine Vehicle Maintenance

5. Build an Emergency Car Kit

Arizona’s heat and occasional storms can catch you off guard, so keep an emergency kit in your car. Include essentials like water, jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a spare tire with tools to change it. If you do find yourself stranded, Good Works Auto Repair is here to help, even for major breakdowns requiring a tow. Our team services all vehicles—domestic, foreign, hybrids, and medium-duty trucks. So, no matter what you drive, we’ve got you covered with expert care and student discounts.

Good Works Auto Repair: Offering Car Care Tips for College Students and All Tempe Area Drivers

Located at 2348 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe, on the West Mesa border, our Tempe auto repair shop is the go-to choice for ASU and MCC students. We understand the challenges of being a student, and our team of certified professionals goes beyond basic mechanics to provide trustworthy, high-quality service. Our student discounts make repairs affordable, and our free shuttle service to ASU and MCC ensures you stay on schedule. Whether it’s a quick oil change or a major repair, we work around your busy college life and offer transparent communication, including detailed explanations and written estimates. Parents can rest easy knowing we accept phone payments and provide the best warranty in the business.

For reliable, student-friendly auto repair near ASU and MCC, contact us today to schedule an appointment and take advantage of our student discounts. Keep your car running smoothly and focus on acing your classes!

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Here, we want to share some of our top tips for road trips to keep you, your loved ones, and your vehicle safer this winter. We’re all about getting your vehicle ready with preventative maintenance and routine auto services and helping you get the best gas mileage – keep reading to see what else!

Road Trip Safety Needs to Be a Priority

Things like alcohol, stress, increased traffic, putting off vehicle repairs due to lack of time or finances, inclement weather and unfamiliar routes of travel all tend to increase the dangers of holiday travel. Fatalities increase overall during holiday travel. So, we want to help increase awareness and remind people just how important these tips are, even the ones you know and try to follow on a regular basis.

Our Top Road Trip Safety Tips

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Your vehicle needs to get you from point A to point B safely and smoothly. Plan a month in advance for any auto repairs or routine services. Have your trusted auto repair shop do a full inspection and check coolant, oil, tire pressure, tire condition, battery, brakes, belts and hoses, fluids, wipers and lights.

2. Prepare Yourself

Be sure to get plenty of rest and be in good health for the road trip. Don’t forget to refill and pack any meds you take, sleep the night before, bring water and snacks in the car and always remember to tell people where you’re going and what your travel plans are. You’ll also want to make sure your first aid kit is prepared, including blankets and pillows, jumper cables and flares, maps, tools, waterproof matches and other essentials.

3. Make Reservations or Check Hotels in the Area Ahead of Time

Before you hit the road, plan on where you’ll stop and make reservations so you know you have a place to stay. This will prevent you from driving overtired or at night on unfamiliar roads and terrain. You will also save time and gas not having to get on and off exits, and stopping at different hotels to find out the rates and availability.

4. Be Wise with Your Fuel Mileage

Gas prices are still high, so find ways to spend less money on the road by slowing down your acceleration, purchasing gas at the coolest time of the day, keep a moderate speed, keep windows closed when driving at high speeds, try driving on smoother roads, remove excess weight where possible, check tire pressure and know how much you’ll spend on gas.

5. Be Safe and Alert At All Times Behind the Wheel

This is huge. Distracted driving and impaired driving are avoidable. Staying alert will help you to scan the road for dangers or hazards, notice tailgaters or aggressive drivers around you, and avoid emergencies. It is also important to take breaks and stretch, have plenty of fuel options between each exit, and listen to your body when you’re getting tired.

Make Road Trip Safety a Priority With Preventative Maintenance At Our Tempe Auto Repair Shop

The increased dangers of holiday travel shouldn’t stop you from enjoying all that this season has to offer (and road trips all year long)! We are here to help prepare your vehicle for the miles to come and the memories ahead. Preventative maintenance helps keep vehicles safer and even helps you avoid major repairs and breakdowns when you least expect them.

Give us a call and schedule your appointment today!

The post 5 Essential Road Trip Safety Tips appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Diesel Engines vs. Gas Engines: What’s the Difference?

Before you make a decision, you need to do the research and have a little background on each type of engine plus their pros and cons.

Both gasoline and diesel engines use internal combustion where air enters the engine and combines with fuel. In an effort to keep things simple, we won’t get too much more into the details. However, the ignition process is where this varies for these types of engines. During the compression process, a spark plug ignites the fuel in a gas engine. Diesel engines do not have spark plugs, but simply “use extreme compression to generate the heat required for spontaneous ignition, also known as compression ignition.” This would damage a gasoline engine.

Pros and Cons of Diesel Engines

Now, let’s break down the pros and cons of diesel engines!

Diesel Engine Pros:

• Super towing capabilities, enhanced torque and superior take offs
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Improved noise level and smoother performance compared to older diesel models
• More efficiency, decrease in carbon emissions compared to older models
• Engine has fewer components and no tune-ups are needed

Diesel Engine Cons:

• Inferior horsepower, slower speeds
• Fuel prices are more expensive and some gas stations may not have diesel fuel
• Noisier than gasoline-powered engines
• Emissions can emit harmful substances
• Maintenance and repairs can be costlier
• Not all automotive repair shops are experienced to perform diesel engine repair
• Difficulty starting in cold weather since they lack spark plugs

Diesel engines have come a long way and improvements are quite evident. However, some of the old diesel stereotypes still exist today – terrible emissions, dirty or noisy rides, and a “stinky experience” are just a few.

Expert Diesel Repair and Maintenance In Tempe, AZ

Are you going to be spending weekends camping in the woods, hauling a horse to shows and rodeos, or hauling ATVs to the sand dunes? Or, are you planning to explore America’s highways and become a frequent road tripper? If not, then gasoline-powered engines may be the best option for an easy daily commute. We welcome you to come in and talk with us about diesel engines at any time so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for YOU.

Here at Good Works Auto Repair, we have mechanics on staff who know and love diesel repairs and maintenance. If you do decide to purchase a diesel vehicle, you can count on us to handle your diesel maintenance and repairs. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!

The post Diesel Engines vs. Gas Engines: Which Is Right For You? appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Since October is Fall Car Care Month, we wanted to share some helpful tips about what service items should be on your car care to-do list and why. This could end up saving you a LOT of money so keep reading!

Why is Fall Car Care so important?

Well, the arrival of fall means that your vehicle is recovering from the high temperatures and long drives of summer. Plus, right around the corner are colder temperatures, falling leaves, and other environmental changes that could impact your car.

The Car Care Council recognizes October as Fall Car Care Month. This is a great way to remind people to give their vehicles a little more attention and schedule preventative maintenance at their trusted local auto repair shop. Completing small auto repair or maintenance items now could save you from expensive issues during the winter.

Top Tech Tips for Fall Car Care Month

When you visit your auto repair shop, these are some of the most important vehicle maintenance services to consider:

1. Check the Fluids

Your vehicle needs various types of fluids for its components to run smoothly – from engine oil and power steering fluid, to brake fluid, transmission fluid, and even windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze. Topping off these essential fluids will keep your vehicle’s systems working well.

2. Inspect Hoses and Belts

These important parts need to be in good condition for your vehicle to run well, too. Exposure to summer heat is one of the most common reasons belts and hoses deteriorate. Your repair shop should check them for leaks, excessive wear, cracks, brittle areas, frays or looseness.

3. Battery Check

The summer heat can drain your battery’s charge and the cold will, too. If your car’s battery is in poor condition, you could end up stranded when you least expect it. Schedule battery service to learn more about your battery’s condition and whether or not it needs replacement.

4. Brake System Check

Brakes are important for driving safety but in the colder weather, they are more important than ever. Have your trusted mechanic check your brakes, pads, rotors, linings and drums.

5. Exhaust System Inspection

Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, holes, rust, or any other signs of damage. Listen for weird noises and keep an eye out for reduced fuel mileage, unusual smells, a vibrating gas pedal or an odd rumbling when idle. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule service as soon as possible.

6. HVAC System Inspection

Your car’s HVAC system works to cool, heat, ventilate and dehumidify the whole interior. Keep this system running well all year long for driving safety and comfort.

7. Steering and Suspension Service

Annual checks of shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts can keep your vehicle running smoothly.

8. Tire Maintenance and Service

Colder weather and different road temperatures affect how your vehicle maintains traction on the road. And proper tire pressure can significantly affect your driving safety as tire pressure drops 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees in temperature. Schedule tire service to make sure your tires are at optimal pressure and that they’re free of excessive wear, tears, or bulges.

9. Inspection of Wipers and Lights

Weather can be unpredictable and you want to see and be seen in all types of weather. Think about replacing or upgrading your lights or wipers to enhance driving safety.

10. Wax the Outside of Your Vehicle

Getting off the summertime grime can help protect and prepare your vehicle’s body from what’s to come. Plus, you’ll feel good about driving a vehicle that looks nice, too.

Celebrate Fall Car Care Month at Good Works Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ

We know how much you rely on your vehicle and you can rely on us to make sure you’re able to keep driving for the upcoming season without any issues! Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. We are happy to help give your vehicle a little extra TLC this October!

The post Fall Car Care Month: The Perfect Time For Vehicle Service appeared first on Good Works Auto Repair Tempe.

Today, we’ll walk you through some of the primary objectives of the right to repair movement, explain some of the highlights of the new agreement, and show you how independent auto repair shops can be an excellent choice for consumers.

Goals of the Automotive Right to Repair Movement

Since its inception in 2014, the automotive right to repair movement has focused on several key objectives:

1. Access to vehicle diagnostic information for repair shops – In the old days, only dealerships had diagnostic information provided by vehicle manufacturers. This made it more difficult for independent auto repair shops to accurately diagnose vehicle problems and fix them efficiently.
2. Software and tools for advanced vehicle technology – Today’s vehicles are like computers on wheels. The automotive right to repair movement has made it possible for independent repair shops to have access to the same software and tools as dealerships. This helps to contribute to efficient and cost-effective repairs.
3. Access to replacement parts – Now, vehicle manufacturers are required to make schematics and replacement parts available to independent auto repair shops. This helps to increase competition among shops and lower prices for consumers.
4. Increased options for consumers – Vehicle owners now have a choice when their vehicle needs service. They can still bring it to their local dealership but they also have the right to choose a local repair shop if they so desire.

Increased access to parts, diagnostic tools, and software also means vehicles can more readily be repaired and maintained. And typically, a well-maintained vehicle lasts longer. So, in some ways, the automotive right to repair movement also benefits the environment. There’s less waste and the vehicles on the road can be kept in better shape.

What Are the Highlights of the New Automotive Right to Repair Agreement?

According to the ASA, the goals of the original agreement remain the same. In addition, the following safeguards were made:

Independent repair shops and consumers will continue to have access to necessary diagnostic and repair information. This now includes telematics data and ALL vehicle technologies and powertrains.

Further collaboration on education and training – Independent auto repair shops and collision repair facilities will have access to a vehicle manufacturer’s repair website, third-party software and tools, and shared access points like OEM1Stop.com.

Continued collaboration coinciding with further vehicle advancement – The new agreement highlights the fact that vehicle technology is always changing. As it does, there will be a collaborative effort to ensure independent shops continue to have what they need for accurate and cost-effective auto repairs.

What does all this mean for the consumer? According to Scott Benevidez, ASA Board Chairman, the new agreement “maintains a competitive repair market that yields the highest quality safety outcomes at a fair price.” That means consumers are able to have a choice about where they take their vehicle for service without having to sacrifice quality or safety.

Choose Expert, Accurate, and Affordable Auto Repairs At Your Local Tempe Auto Repair Shop

At Good Works Auto Repair, our customers matter. That’s why we offer an industry-leading 5 year/ 60,000 mile auto repair warranty, employ ASE-certified technicians, and invest in top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment. All of this helps us to provide an exceptional customer experience. It also means we can complete accurate and affordable auto repair and maintenance services.

Are you still taking your car to a dealership for maintenance and repairs? If so, it’s time to exercise your automotive repair rights. Schedule an appointment at our family-owned Tempe auto repair shop today. You will be treated like family while getting the best service around. We look forward to seeing you at the shop soon!

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A properly maintained vehicle – even one with high mileage – can end up saving you thousands and thousands of dollars after you’ve paid off the loan. Your vehicle CAN last a long time, but only if you have it routinely serviced and inspected by an experienced auto repair shop.  That means one that has the means and knowledge to maintain vehicles with a lot of miles and a lot of stories to tell!

Where should you turn for advice – owner’s manual or dealership?

You can look up just about anything on the internet these days. But, your vehicle also comes with an owner’s manual which will give you mileage intervals and specific services so you’ll know what’s next for your preventative maintenance appointments.

Dealerships will also offer advice and have you come in for services at specific intervals. You probably don’t want to spend a ton of extra money on routine maintenance you don’t need, but you also want to do enough to maintain your vehicle and prevent major car repairs, right? So whose advice do you follow – the dealership or the owner’s manual?

The owner’s manual was made for your specific brand of vehicle!

Yes – that’s right. People with high mileage vehicles and automotive experts will agree that the owner’s manual was made by the folks who made your vehicle. A dealership sells vehicles, but they may not be experts in the service intervals for your make or model.

The owner’s manual gives you an A-to-Z look at the details about your car, such as when to get the oil changed and when to get the tires rotated. Included in each manual are suggestions about maintenance and troubleshooting, such as what the correct tire pressure is.

Trusted auto repair shops are also important for your vehicle’s health.

Your trusted mechanics here at Good Works Auto Repair know what that manual says and we will also recommend just what your vehicle needs based on our expertise and experience. We will always recommend that you do the following things to get the most miles out of your vehicle and your investment in it:

1. Stick to the service interval schedule. During an inspection, a qualified technician will check your tires, fluid levels, belts, lights, windshield wipers, battery, hoses, and more. As the driver or the owner, you can also help avoid major issues. If you notice strange smells and sounds coming from your car even when your vehicle isn’t due for routine maintenance, call us for an appointment right away!
2. Get the oil changed when you’re supposed to. Regularly scheduled oil changes are important for maintaining a healthy engine. Oil changes keep an engine’s parts well-coated and protected against potentially damaging heat and friction. When your vehicle has high mileage, regular oil changes are especially important!
3. Check the tire pressure. Routine checks and monitoring by both you and a repair shop can help avoid tire issues. Not only do properly inflated tires help them to last longer, your car will drive better, you’ll get better fuel economy and you’ll be safer!
4. Keep your vehicle clean. Sure, it’ll make it look nicer inside and out, but a clean vehicle is actually a healthier vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, washing and waxing your car regularly protects the paint and fights rust, while vacuuming dirt and sand out of carpets and seats can minimize tears and holes.

Get expert auto repairs and maintenance in Tempe, AZ

Come on in for your next appointment and let’s see what your vehicle needs. We’re happy to help you regularly maintain your vehicle and look forward to adding your vehicle to our high mileage family! Simply schedule an appointment with us today!