If your German car didn’t pass the last emissions test, then bring it to a VW and Audi repair center to find out why it failed. Due to the intricate parts and construction, it’s easy for a general mechanic to get the diagnosis wrong. For German vehicles, the issue is often connected to the catalytic converter. Maintain this auto part, and emissions testing should be a clear pass every time.

Why Catalytic Converters Fail

Catalytic converters wear out for multiple reasons. A typical cause is an incorrect fuel mixture. This creates too much heat, causing the catalyst to melt. Subsequently, this leads to deposit accumulation that inhibits airflow. In addition, the melted metal also leads to a gaseous buildup in the exhaust, causing the vehicle to stall.

Besides stalling and emissions test failure, here are several additional signs of a faulty converter:

• The car won’t start
• A significant loss in acceleration
• Reduction in fuel efficiency
• The Check Engine light switches on

If you have the skill, you can conduct a DIY evaluation. Pull out the oxygen sensor from the exhaust system and drive the car around the neighborhood. If there’s a noticeable change in handling, then the catalytic converter is probably clogged. Continue Reading →

Modern VW vehicles use an array of warning lights to inform you if a specific issue arises. This provides a more accurate indicator than a generic check engine light. However, if you don’t often review the vehicle user manual, you can easily forget what the VW warning lights mean. Here’s a guide for a quick reference. Refer to your manual for images or more detailed explanations of each indicator.

Pull Over if any of These Warning Indicators Appear

• Red brake light – low brake fluid
• Red thermometer – engine temperature is dangerously high or coolant level is low
• Red steering wheel – power steering failure
• Liquid pouring out of bottle – failed engine restart
• Yellow “!” with an oil canister – low to no oil pressure

Continue Reading →

Most modern German cars contain a turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engine under the hood, hence why most VW and Audi repairs need care from a specialist mechanic. TDI engines are lauded for their ability to deliver enhanced combustion, power increase, and CO2 reduction. On the flip side, these engines are also known to have problems in cold-weather operations. Since Redmond isn’t known for extreme cold, this isn’t something you should be worried about. TDI engine maintenance, though, is still necessary if you own a vehicle outfitted with one of these bad boys.

Precautions for Winter Commuting

Diesel fluids react differently than gasoline under temperature fluctuations. When the temperature drops, the diesel fuel thickens. Hardened diesel is referred to as “gel.” Gel is sludge-like and can’t be pumped, causing the engine to shut down.

A way to minimize gel formation is to install an auxiliary heater. This keeps the engine warm and prevents a rise in fuel viscosity.

Apart from the engine, inspect the battery to be certain it’s fully charged. Batteries run less optimally in frigid weather. In addition, oil also thickens under low temperatures, thus forcing the battery to push even harder to get the engine to crank. Continue Reading →

Most modern German vehicles utilize limited slip differentials for bettering traction on slippery roads. It’s exactly for this reason that you need to bring your car to an Audi and VW service for tire checkup and alignment.

Limited Slip Differentials (LSD) Explained

Most American cars, particularly older models, use a standard differential where the left and right axle rotations are completely independent of one another. This creates an issue when one wheel drives over a slippery surface. This makes the wheel spin excessively while the other spins at a normal speed. This leads to more power flowing to the slippery wheel while power flow comes to a stop for the other. This leads to major shifting problems or even brings the car to a total halt.

A limited slip differential seeks to correct this issue by minimizing the independence between the two axles. Most LSDs use a clutch pack based system. It’s not necessary to know the precise mechanics of how the system works; all you need to understand is that the component includes friction and steel plates wedged between the casing and side gear. This allows the distribution of power so that one wheel absorbs the traction loss should the other wheel drive over a slippery road. 

For a more in-depth explanation, watch this video for a walk-through with visuals. Continue Reading →

An awesome aspect of German automobiles is that most models utilize a Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engine. As suggested in its name, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber where it combines with the air entering from the intake manifold. The mixture is compressed and causes a spark that amplifies horsepower. Unfortunately, FSI engine carbon buildup is commonplace. Excess carbon causes restricted airflow and loss of power.

Symptoms of Carbon Buildup

If you notice signs of carbon buildup, then bring your vehicle to an Audi & VW repair center. Typical symptoms include:

• Lack of engine response
• Lag in acceleration
• Lack of response when hitting the gas pedal
• Check engine light frequently flashing on
• Misfiring, which becomes noticeable when the engine revving noise sounds erratic

Continue Reading →

Diesel engines have a reputation for being noisy and dirty. They’re also a rarity, accounting for only 3.2% of cars in the U.S. So, why should you consider making the switch to a diesel engine vehicle given its less-than-stellar image? Well, there are four reasons why diesel engines are advantageous.

1. Diesel Engines Are a German Mainstay

In huge contrast to the U.S., 41.9% of cars sold in Germany in 2011 operated on diesel fuel. The Germans are the pioneers of early automotive technology, so if nearly half of the country’s population is willing to forgo gasoline, then it’s all the more reason for American consumers to consider doing the same. Continue Reading →

There is a lure about German cars that make them a long-time favorite among dedicated auto enthusiasts. Why are brands like VW and Audi so favored by North American consumers? There’s an element about German automobiles that distinguishes them both in terms of feel and performance. Here are a few reasons why German-imported vehicles are so idolized by American consumers.

1. German Cars are Made for the Racetrack 

German vehicles are legendary when it comes to racing. Auto racing hobbyists are familiar with Germany’s famous Nurburgring, which is the country’s and maybe even the world’s most famous motorsport complex. This is where prototype models are put to the ultimate speed and handling test. Continue Reading →

Not surprisingly, auto AC problems spike during the summer. Since German automobiles have a different engine layout than their American and Japanese counterparts, you’ll need to take your car to a VW & Audi repair service. If you drive the VW Jetta and are experiencing inconsistencies with the AC, you might be able to troubleshoot the issue. If you’re an avid weekend mechanic, try the following steps. Otherwise, leave the VW Jetta AC repair to a licensed mechanic.

Try These Steps for DIY Auto AC Repair

Start the ignition and let the car run for a minute. Adjust the climate control and see if it affects the air temperature. If not, then you probably have a blown fuse. If you don’t hear the typical blowing sound or hardly feel the air, then the culprit may be a faulty fan or worn blower motor. Continue Reading →

Xenon headlights are found in most modern Audi models, including the A4. The lights are similar to the halogen bulbs found in conventional headlights. However, they’re constructed using noble gas and provide much brighter light while consuming less power. They’re not without their own troubles, though. Several motorists have pointed out what is being called the “dipped headlights phenomenon” associated with the Audi Xenon headlights. Take your vehicle to an Audi service shop if you’re unable to treat the problem on your own.

Dipped Headlights 

The problem with dipped headlights is often the low beam burning out prematurely or flickering on and off. The light also tends to dip when it shines on the pavement, hence the name. If you experience this issue with your Audi, try switching out the bulb. Continue Reading →

Most car owners are aware of the 3,000-mile rule when it comes to changing the oil. However, this rule no longer holds, or at least not in modern cars. Most Volkswagen models, in fact, can last up to 10,000 miles between oil changes. Nevertheless, driving conditions ultimately dictate how often you need to swap out the oil. Have your car serviced by a VW auto service to determine the exact VW oil change interval for your specific model.

When to Schedule a VW Oil Change

The oil change every 10,000 miles applies to freeway and highway driving on smooth roads and under mild weather. More frequent changes may be needed for frequent city driving. ‘City driving’ means regular, short-distance commuting, typically trips under 20-minutes in duration with plenty of stop-and-go traffic. If you routinely drive short distances on city streets, then your car may need an oil change more often, perhaps every 5,000-miles or so.

Short commuting means that the car is constantly shutting off before the engine has time to reach full operating temperature. When the engine is often in a ‘warmup phase,’ contamination builds up in the oil. This happens as a result of burnt and unburnt fuel gases moving past the piston rings during the cylinders’ combustion cycle. The escaped gas eventually finds its way into the motor oil, leaving behind contaminants.

Only Use VW Motor Oil

It’s essential for the VW engine’s health that you use VW-approved synthetic motor oil. Most VW engines use an advanced fuel injection system that must be lubricated using a specific oil formula. Most generic, petroleum-based oils don’t contain the right formula and can cause premature engine and transmission wear.

Most Volkswagen models require oil with a VW 502 00 specification. For Volkswagens with a diesel engine, the oil requirement is VW 507 00.

If you’re still uncertain about the precise oil requirements, then bring your vehicle to a VW repair service for maintenance. Buttera Motors works specifically with VW, Audi and other German vehicles. Contact us to have a mechanic take a look at your car and determine the correct VW oil change interval.

Professional Audi & VW Oil Changes 

VW and Audi service in Bothell, Bellevue, Kirkland, Kenmore, Redmond & Woodinville.

Posted on May 19, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business