The Importance of the Regular Oil Change: Thoughts from Your Acura Dealer

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​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.

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.