Blog

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The automatic transmission can seem a dark and mysterious place for many drivers, but it performs a vital function in your Acura. The transmission uses the energy the engine produces to ensure that the wheels move at the desired speed. As time passes, transmission components can wear out or suffer damage. These are a few signs that you need to visit your Acura dealer for a transmission service. Photo by: cottonbro studio via pexels.com more Delayed Shifting A healthy transmission shifts gears when instructed to by the transmission computer. Shifting is almost instantaneous as the new gear engages. Delayed shifting occurs when there's a noticeable delay in the latest gear engaging. When this issue starts, it will be difficult to notice, but the delay will become longer and more obvious as time passes. Gear shifting delays can be caused by a blocked transmission filter, damaged linkages, or a lack of transmission fluid. We'll need to examine the transmission to identify and fix this issue. Once the problem is repaired, your transmission will shift normally again. Stalling and Restarting Stalling can be caused by various problems, including bad spark plugs or a fuel-rich engine. If your engine stalls and restarts, this usually indicates a transmission problem. Your engine and transmission are physically connected by the torque converter. The converter consists of the impeller, which connects to the engine, and the turbine, which connects to the transmission. These two components are surrounded by transmission fluid, which provides the hydraulic power that allows the gears to move. The actions of the impeller and turbine pressurize the fluid. If something is wrong with either of these components, the transmission won't work correctly to shift gears and your engine will shut down and then restart again to try and fix the issue. Our technicians will investigate the converter and repair the fault. Check Engine Light The check engine light illuminates in response to any issue in the engine. It will also light up if something goes wrong with the transmission. As we saw above, the engine and transmission are connected. This means that any issue affecting the performance of one will also affect the other. If the transmission isn't working correctly, your engine will work harder to supply more energy. This increases the strain on numerous engine components. Sensors in the transmission will detect the problem, and your computer logs this with an error code. Our technicians will use a diagnostic machine to read the error codes so they can zone on to the affected area. Once the problem is identified, they will repair it. Transmission issues get worse over time, and they can lead to more serious damage. Contact our service department right away at Doral Acura in Doral, FL.

Maintaining your Acura's performance and longevity hinges significantly on regular maintenance, a key aspect of which is the regular oil change. Here are a few thoughts from your local Acura dealer about the importance of getting the oil changed regularly for your Acura. Photo by: planet_fox via pixabay.com more Engine Protection and Longevity Regular oil replacements are fundamental in protecting your Acura's engine from wear and tear. Engine oil lubricates moving parts, minimizing friction and preventing damage. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective, making timely replacement essential to maintain engine health. Furthermore, changing the oil consistently ensures that any potential contaminants are removed, which protects your internal components from corrosion and excessive wear. Enhanced Performance: Maintaining Efficiency A well-lubricated engine runs more efficiently. Fresh oil ensures that your Acura's engine operates smoothly, providing optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Changing the oil regularly keeps the engine clean, preventing sludge build-up that can hinder performance. Additionally, this cleanliness helps maintain the engine's thermal balance, preventing overheating during high-performance driving. Prolonging Vehicle Life Routine oil replacement contributes significantly to extending the lifespan of your Acura. By ensuring that your engine is not strained by dirty or degraded oil, you avoid the risk of severe engine damage, which can be costly and decrease the overall life of your vehicle. Changing the oil regularly also helps in detecting and addressing minor issues before they escalate into major repairs. Environmental Benefits A well-maintained engine with clean oil burns fuel more efficiently, leading to reduced emissions. Regularly replacing the oil in your Acura contributes to a healthier environment by minimizing your vehicle's carbon footprint. Warranty and Value Preservation Keeping up with a regular oil replacement schedule is often a requirement for maintaining your vehicle's warranty. Additionally, a well-maintained car retains a higher resale value, making it a wise investment for the future. A regular routine for changing the oil is a clear indicator to potential buyers that the car has been meticulously cared for, which boosts its market appeal. Special Considerations for Acura Acura vehicles, which are known for their precision engineering, often have specific oil requirements, so using the right type of oil as recommended by the manufacturer is crucial for maintaining the engine's performance and longevity. Adhering to these specifications enhances performance and ensures that your vehicle complies with Acura's standards for optimal operation and efficiency. That way, you Acura will always give you the ride and performance you expect. For expert service and advice on maintaining your Acura, contact Doral Acura here in Miami, FL. Our team of trained professionals is ready to assist you with in keeping your vehicle in peak condition.

If you're the proud owner of an Acura, you know you've got a vehicle that blends performance, luxury, and reliability. But even the best cars need a little TLC to keep them running at their peak. Regular Acura maintenance is key to ensuring your car stays in top condition, providing you with a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Here's a guide to essential car maintenance, courtesy of your Acura dealer. more Oil and Oil Filter Changes Oil is so crucial for your car's performance that it's hard to overstate it. It lubricates the engine's moving parts, minimizing friction and wear. Over time, oil breaks down and gets contaminated with dust, dirt, and debris from the engine. Changing the oil and oil filter regularly is critical for keeping your engine running smoothly. For most Acuras, it's recommended to change the oil around 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. However, you should always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your model. Tire Maintenance Your tires are the only point of contact your car has with the road, so keeping them in good condition is essential for both performance and safety. Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure they are correctly inflated. This not only ensures optimal handling and better fuel efficiency but also helps prevent uneven tire wear. Brake Inspections Brakes are a critical component of your car, and their performance can degrade over time due to wear and tear. Regular brake inspections are crucial to ensure your safety on the road. This includes checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid. Checking Fluid Levels Apart from engine oil, your Acura has other vital fluids that need to be checked and replaced regularly. These include transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids are essential for the smooth operation and longevity of various car components. Battery Maintenance A car battery typically lasts between three and five years, but regular checks are important to avoid unexpected failures. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion and the connections are secure. Get Regular Inspections at Your Acura Dealer Regular inspections by a qualified technician can catch issues before they become serious problems. A tune-up, which includes checking the engine, transmission, belts, hoses, and other key components, can help maintain your car's performance and extend its life. Incorporating these maintenance tasks into your routine will help keep your Acura performing at its best. Not only will this ensure a more enjoyable driving experience, but it will also help preserve your car's value and help it last longer. Get the help you need to keep your car running well at Doral Acura.

You probably don't spend a lot of time thinking about your car's battery. It quietly does its job, starting the engine without much fuss. That is, until it doesn't. If you've ever found yourself stuck with a car that won't start, you know the frustration. Learn the signs that your battery is failing, and you'll know to take your vehicle to your Acura dealer for a new car battery before you're left stranded somewhere. Photo by: Julia Avamotive via pexels.com more 1. Slow Engine Crank You turn the key, and instead of the familiar engine crank, you year a sluggish "err-err-err." It's like your car is saying, "I'm not sure I can do this today." A slow crank is often a telltale sign that your battery is on its last legs. 2. Dimming Headlights and Electronics Have you noticed that your headlights are dimmer than usual, or that the interior lights flicker when you start your car? This could be a sign of a weak battery. When the battery can't supply enough power, it affects not only the engine but also all of the electrical components in your car. 3. Warning Light on the Dashboard Modern cars are smart. They have a way of letting you know when something's not right. If you see a battery or check engine light on your dashboard, your car is trying to tell you that there's a problem. While it might not always be the battery, it's a good place to start your investigation. 4. Your Battery is Old Batteries, like everything else, have a lifespan. Most car batteries last around three to five years, but this can vary depending on your climate and how you use your car. If your battery is celebrating its fifth birthday, it might be living on borrowed time. It's a good idea to have it tested and possibly replaced before it can quit on you. 5. Difficulty Starting in Extreme Temperatures Batteries don't like extreme heat or cold because these temperatures put extra strain on them. If you find that your car is struggling to start on the hottest or coldest days, it could be a sign that your battery is no longer up to the task. 6. Corrosion and Leakage If you pop the hood and notice a buildup of white, powdery residue on your battery, that's corrosion, and it's a bad sign. If your battery is corroded, swollen, or has any signs of leakage, it's time to replace it. A leaky, corroded battery can damage other engine components, so act fast. Visit Your Acura Dealer for Battery Replacement The battery is a vital part of your car and needs to be taken care of. When it's time to replace it, there's nowhere better to have it done than at your local dealership. With trained technicians and all the parts you need, your car will be starting reliably again in no time. Avoid the frustration of a dead battery and the inconvenience of being stranded. Keep an eye on your battery's performance, and don't wait until your car refuses to start. Visit Doral Acura today to have your battery tested, and if necessary, replaced.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The alternator is a vital part of your Acura's engine, as it generates electricity. The power it produces is supplied to all your car's systems. In time, the alternator will wear out or become damaged. When this time comes, you'll need to visit your Acura dealer for an alternator repair. These are a few signs that your alternator could be in trouble. Photo by: cottonbro studio via pexels.com more Illuminated Battery Light The battery-shaped warning light on your dash illuminates if any problem is detected in your electrical system. All the electrical system components have sensors connected to them. These sensors monitor their attached components and will immediately identify any problem with the component. The relevant sensor will send a message to your car's computer, and the computer will then illuminate the battery light. A healthy alternator produces approximately 14.5 volts, and even under a full load it will still supply 13 volts. As an alternator gets older, its electrical output will drop. When the output drops below 12.5 volts, the sensors will send a warning to the computer. We advise contacting us if your battery light comes on, so our technicians can investigate and fix the problem. Dim Then Bright Lights Headlights are one of your vehicle's most sensitive components in terms of electrical supply. The headlights require a constant and consistent supply of power to work effectively. An older alternator will produce less power than it previously did, and this power supply will continue to drop until the alternator fails. Your car's systems have a relatively fixed demand for electricity, and this will become a problem when the alternator can't supply the necessary power. Your Acura's computer will shift the available power from system to system, depending on demand. This process can mean that some of the power supplied to the lights can suddenly be shifted away. When this happens, the lights will dim. As the demand for power drops, more power will be shifted to the lights, and they'll blaze brightly. We'll examine your alternator and replace it if it's the cause of the problem. Strange Noises The alternator produces power by spinning at high speed. A healthy alternator makes no sound as it works. If you start to hear grinding or whining noises from the engine compartment, you could have a failing alternator. As we've seen, a failing alternator produces less power than it should. When this happens, the computer will order it to spin faster to supply more power. A worn alternator that spins faster will generate whining noises as the worn parts try to supply more power. Damaged alternator bearings will also produce grinding noises as the alternator spins faster. We'll examine the condition of your alternator and install a new one if required. If your alternator is ​damaged, call us right away at Doral Acura.

If you want to keep your car's brakes reliable at all times, regular brake servicing is one half of the coin. The other half is keeping an eye out for possible problems and having any emerging brake problems fixed promptly. Here are five clear indications of trouble that would require quick brake repair at your local Acura dealership. Photo by: Ralphs_Fotos via pixabay.com more Your Brake Fluid's Leaking Pressing your brake pedal sends a signal through the brake hoses to the calipers, which clamp to slow your car. The hoses are filled with brake fluid, which maintains high hydraulic pressure. If the brake fluid ever leaks from a hose, air can get in and the hydraulic pressure diminishes. This is dangerous as your foot can no longer send an effective stopping signal to the caliper. Your brake pedal might feel slightly spongy underfoot and your car won't be stopping as rapidly. If you ever think you might have a brake fluid leak, check under your car for a dripping oily yellow liquid. You Experience Brake Fade When brakes overheat, they can reach a staggering 400 or 500 degrees Fahrenheit. At those temperatures, the resin in the brake pads can sometimes start to melt. This releases a tiny amount of gas that can form a wafer-thin layer over the pad's surface, lessening friction. The resulting loss of stopping power is called brake fade. Brakes can overheat and experience brake fade when used non-stop for long periods, such as in heavy traffic or winding hilly roads with many corners and downhill stretches. Your Brakes Become Noisy A little squeaking in the mornings is normal when brakes have condensation on them. But any persistent squeaking might indicate a worn-out brake pad that needs to be replaced. Any kind of persistent noise usually indicates a brake problem. Grinding or clattering sounds might point to a completely worn-out brake pad or something trapped inside your calipers. Your Brakes Start Vibrating When rotor discs wear too thin, they sometimes warp out of shape or become damaged while overheating. Warped or scored rotors often cause vibrations that you'll feel through the brake pedal and steering wheel. You're Tugging to One Side If your car tugs to one side while braking, you can be fairly sure that the braking mechanism on just one of your wheels is having trouble. The problem will usually be on the opposite side of the car to the direction in which you're being tugged. Have Biannual Brake Servicing at Your Local Acura Dealer Under most normal driving conditions, brakes should be serviced twice a year. Many drivers have their brakes serviced at the same time as having their oil changed and tires rotated. If you drive frequently in conditions that are more demanding on your brakes, consider having them checked three or four times a year. Visit Doral Acura today to have your brakes inspected and repaired by qualified technicians. Our goal is always to earn a customer for life with top-notch vehicles, deals, and customer service.

Regular servicing and maintenance will ensure that your Acura is always in great condition. Components will wear down as they age, fluids need to be topped up or replaced, and these tasks all contribute to the long-term health of your car. At your Acura dealership, we offer ways to ensure your car performs at its best. These are some of the many services we have available. Photo by: Artem Podrez via pexels.com more Battery Checks Your car's battery is essential, as it provides the power that starts your engine. If the battery fails, the only way to start a car is by jump-starting it. Despite its importance, a battery's health is often overlooked until it starts to fail. A battery gradually wears out as the breakdown of the chemicals inside it reduces its electrical storage and recharging abilities. Regular battery checks allow you to know your battery's capabilities and strength and to make provisions for its replacement. On average, a battery will work effectively for three to five years, although this life can be reduced by environmental factors and driving style. We can test your battery using our battery tester. If your battery is weakening, we can easily replace it with a new one. Air Filter Replacement Your engine requires an enormous quantity of clean air for combustion and this air must pass through the air filter. The air filter is housed in a special box just inside the radiator grille, and it filters the air before it flows into the engine. The filter removes dirt, twigs, and other debris that is sucked in through the grille with the air. The debris accumulated in the filter will eventually block it. When this happens, the blocked filter starves your engine of air. If your engine doesn't get enough air, the fuel-air mixture for combustion will become fuel-rich. A fuel-rich engine reduces fuel efficiency, increases pollution, and can damage important components like the spark plugs and catalytic converter. We can easily examine the filter and install a new one to fix this problem. Tire Checks and Replacement The raised tread on your tires allows them to effectively grip the road surface, but abrasion will gradually wear the tread down. As the tread decreases, your Acura's braking distance will increase and controlling your car at speed will become more difficult. Fuel efficiency will decrease as your engine has to work harder to overcome the resistance generated by worn tires. Worn tread can also make your tires more prone to punctures and blowouts. Our technicians will examine your tires and perform a series of tests to determine the health of your tires. If your tires are wearing out, we can fit replacement and rebalance your tires for you while you wait. The secret to long-term health for your Acura is good maintenance. Call our service department today at Doral Acura.

Need Tires? Trust Acura Tires. In Florida, we have a unique climate of high temperatures, high humidity, and flat roads so the question of which tires are the best demands careful analysis. It helps to know the advantages and restrictions of each. When comparing all-season tires versus summer tires, it is easy to misunderstand the differences between the two. One option may be better than the other depending on your vehicle, driving conditions, driving style, and personal preferences. All-season tires deliver balanced performance in wet and dry conditions, as well as traction in snow. They offer a balance of capabilities for the average driver. They have standard tread depths and are engineered to deliver extended tread life over summer tires. You can find all-season tires in many types, models, sizes, load capacities, and speed ratings for use on a wide variety of vehicles. All-season tires provide ride comfort, handling, and other performance attributes suitable for most drivers. Built for the average driver, all-season tires have moderate tread depths and rubber compounds that are engineered to provide longer tread life than summer tires, which have shallower tread depths. All-season tires are offered in many types/models, sizes, load capacities, and speed ratings for use on a wide variety of vehicles from economy cars to sedans to minivans to pickup trucks. They tend to provide ride comfort, handling, and other performance aspects preferable for most drivers. They perform well in warm weather but may offer less grip. This sacrifices steering, braking, and cornering functions. In order for all-season tires to be able to accommodate light winter conditions and provide longer tread life, they must make this trade-off. Overall, here are the benefits of All-Season tires! Performance in wet and dry conditions Moderate tread depths Longer tread life Acceptable performance in light winter conditions Capable of providing tractions in winter When it comes to Florida driving, it may be best to choose Summer tires over all-season. Summer tires are ideal for high-performance vehicles and are better suited for speed and agility. They provide better cornering, responsiveness, and braking capabilities. This is because of particularly designed tread patterns and rubber compounds. Summer tires have tread patterns with less grooving and more rubber. The more rubber in contact with the road allows for improved precision and maximum road-holding grip. Certain features of summer tires such as the width, aspect ratio, rim diameter, and speed capacity make them more suited for increased performance in wet and dry conditions, especially for sport-oriented or high-performance vehicles. They also help evacuate water and resist hydroplaning. When it comes to winter driving, all-season tires may be more suitable than summer tires, given their blend of summer and winter performance capabilities, but we recommend considering making the switch to winter tires to get optimal traction and performance in extreme winter conditions. Here are the benefits of Summer tires summarized! Increased speed and agility Increased cornering and braking abilities Less grooving Maximum road-holding performance Better performance in wet driving conditions So now that we know all of that, which type of tire is best for Florida driving? When deciding which tires to mount there are a few things to consider: your driving conditions, the climate you live in, whether you live in Florida all year round or only part of the time, and also the performance needs of your vehicle. Also, check with the manufacturer's recommended size, speed rating, load capacity, and other specifications. Remember that our service department at Esserman Acura is still fully operating. So just give us a call if you’re in need of a new set of tires and we will take care of you and help you choose the best set for you and your car! We have the best experts to help you make a decision.

Esserman International Acura has dedicated over 40 years in the Miami area to giving our customers everything they may need or want when it comes to our services. We strive to provide the best service from check-up to check out. At Esserman International Acura, we create an Elevated Experience for our customers. Acura Service Suite Esserman International Acura provides plenty of services including Roadside Assistance, the CarCierge Program, the Acura Accelerated Service, and Acura Care. Read below to learn more about the different programs we offer. Roadside Assistance Accidents, Engine Failures, Blowouts, and other everyday incidents are one of the least fun parts of car ownership. At Esserman Acura, we try to make these situations easier to handle by offering 24/7 Roadside Assistance for our customers, because we know the last thing you want to deal with in the early hours of the morning is changing your tire on the side of the highway. With Roadside Assistance you can breathe a little bit easier knowing that Esserman International Acura has got your back and will get your vehicle into our service center in no time. To learn more about our 24/7 Roadside Services, you can call us ANYTIME at 800-594-8600. CarCierge Program Welcome to a wonderful future--a future where you no longer have to leave your home or office to get your Acura Serviced in Miami. Say goodbye to figuring out who's following who to the dealership, when you can hitch a ride back, and how you'll get around in the meantime because Esserman International Acura's CarCierge Program is the solution you've been waiting for. Just choose whether you need a one way or round trip delivery and we'll handle the rest. We’ll get your Acura in, serviced, and back to you before you even notice the keys aren't in your pocket! To schedule a CarCierge, please click here. Acura Accelerated Service Gone are the days of waiting hours or days for your vehicle to be done in the shop. With Acura Accelerated Service, your entire service experience revolves around the speed and efficiency of our highly trained Acura Certified Technicians to get the services you need done quickly and efficiently. From an expedited check-in for accelerated service members to complimentary wash and vacuum, this is the service product of choice for anyone looking to have all of their needs met and exceeded in a very short period of time. For more information on Acura Accelerated Service, feel free to give us a call at 786-224-5071. Acura Care Acura Care is the complete end to end solution for a worry-free Acura Service and it's available right here at Esserman International Acura in Miami. This service package features perks such as 24-Hour Roadside Assistance, Personalized Travel Planning, Nationwide Phone Support, Rental Car Reimbursement, and so much more. If you're the type of Acura owner that wants a completely worry-free ownership, this is THE package for you. At Esserman International Acura, we want to ensure that you and your vehicle are well taken care of. That is why we offer plenty of services not available at other dealerships. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions regarding our programs or if you require assistance.