Winner Auto Center

Tech Tip Tuesday 🔧

This week we are using a chemical combustion tester to help diagnose a suspected head gasket failure or cracked engine block.

The blue fluid inside the tester is designed to detect combustion gases in the cooling system. During normal operation, exhaust gases should stay sealed inside the cylinders. When a head gasket fails or an engine develops a crack, combustion gases can leak into the cooling system. If that happens, the test fluid changes color, providing a quick indication that further diagnosis is needed. As you can see in this photo, the fluid is bright yellow instead of the dark blue it started as.

Common symptoms of a head gasket problem can include coolant loss with no visible leak, overheating, excessive pressure in the cooling system, white exhaust smoke, or coolant contamination.

Catching these issues early can help prevent more extensive engine damage and potentially save thousands in repair costs.

If your vehicle has been overheating or losing coolant, schedule an inspection with Winner Auto Center. Book online at winnerautocenter.com, call 321-632-3175, or book directly through Google.

Winner Auto Center is excited to collaborate with the Brevard Schools Foundation's Supply Zone for Teachers to collect school supplies for children in our community! Bring your donations to our shop in Cocoa by August 6th to be entered into a chance drawing for an opportunity to win a free oil change! 🖍️📓🎒📘✏️

Tech Tip Tuesday 🔧

Sometimes being a mechanic isn't all fun and games, sometimes it's pain and flames. This wheel bearing was making a loud growling noise while driving, but removing it turned into a much bigger job than expected.

Over time, rust and corrosion can cause the CV axle splines to seize inside the wheel hub. In this case, the axle was stuck so tightly that our technician had to carefully apply heat to the hub to help break the corrosion bond and separate the components. Heat causes the metal to expand, making it possible to remove parts that would otherwise be extremely difficult to separate.

A failing wheel bearing will often start with a humming, growling, or roaring noise that changes with vehicle speed. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to increased tire wear, poor handling, and in severe cases, damage to other suspension and drivetrain components.

If your vehicle is making unusual noises while driving, having it inspected early can help prevent more extensive repairs down the road.

Need service? Schedule an appointment at winnerautocenter.com, book directly through Google, or call us at 321-632-3175.