Increasingly Dim Interior Lights

If your car interior lights keep dimming then it could be a sign of a battery r alternator issue because this issue is usually caused by a low voltage level. It is best to get this issue repaired quickly because alternator issues can cause damage to your battery or even starter.

Interior Lights Keep Flickering

If the interior lights keep flickering fiercely then it can be a sign of some loose ground wires, an alternator issue or your voltage regular could be to blame. 

Interior Lights Won’t Turn On Or Off

The car interior lights are supposed to turn off a short while after shutting the doors or as soon as you lock the car. If it stays on then it could be that someone might have turned the switch from the “Door” position to “on” or “off” position. If the light won’t turn on at all then the bulb might have fused and you will need to replace it. If the light stays on then it is time to give your mechanic a call or you will soon sit with a dead battery.

Car Dashboard Lights Are Not Working

If your car dashboard lights are not turning on at all when you start up the car then there is likely a blown fuse. The dash lights should come back on when the old fuse is replaced with a new one. 

If only certain parts of the dashboard lights are working then one of the light bulbs likely blew out and will need to be replaced. 

Flickering dashboard lights are usually a sign of a dying car battery or an alternator issue. This type of issue can also be caused by wiring issues. 

Malfunctioning Brake Lights

There could be several reasons for your brake lights to stop working. A blown fuse is one of the most common causes for this type of issue but in some cases, the bulb might be burned out. Wiring issues or a broken switch can also cause this type of issue.

Malfunctioning Indication Lights

If the indicator lights on your car are not common at all then there is likely a blown-out fuse or the bulb could be burned out. If the lights keep flickering rapidly then it is usually a sign of some electrical issue. 

Malfunctioning Headlights

The headlights on your car are very important for driving at night. If the lights are not coming on at all then it is likely a blown fuse or bulb but this and other signs like flickering or dimming can also be caused by wiring issues or battery problems. 

Some cars are also equipped with low-quality headlights that might not provide adequate lighting. If this is the case then you can get them replaced with something stronger so you can see better during night drives. 

Your car’s lighting and electrical system isn’t something that should be meddled with on your own. These systems can be very complex and you can end up causing a lot of future problems if you try to fix these problems without the correct tools or expertise. 

If you experience any of these lighting issues then the best thing you can do is give A Plus Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning a call so an expert can repair these electrical issues for you. 

The post Common Car Lighting Problems And How To Solve Them first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

It is important to get your ABS inspected on a regular basis to ensure that it is still in good working condition. In most cases, this part of your car’s braking system is inspected and maintained when your vehicle is taken to be serviced. These systems do, however, sometimes fail prematurely. Here is a quick look at the top signs that your car’s ABS might be failing.

The Abs Warning Light Is Glowing

The glow of your ABS warning light on the dashboard is the most obvious sign that something is off. A lot of car owners make a huge mistake by ignoring these lights. This warning light is designed to come on for a few seconds just after igniting your engine and should then turn off. If it keeps glowing or suddenly switches on while driving then there could be a problem.

The first thing you need to do is stop and switch off the car engine completely to see if the car just needed a reboot. If the light turns on again then it is time to call your local mechanic. 

It is important to get your car checked even though the ABS and brakes might seem to be functioning because only certain parts like the stability control or traction control might be disabled while the rest might still be functioning. 

The Brakes Lock Up

ABS is designed to keep the brakes or wheels from locking up when you hit the brakes too hard. You should experience jerky movements as the brakes lock and unlock if you suddenly brake too soon or if your car starts skidding on some loose dirt on the road. 

If your car starts to skid without the brakes fastening and loosening up then there is likely a problem.

The Abs Kicks In With Normal Braking

Your ABS is only supposed to kick in if your car starts to skid, or slide or if you suddenly hit the brakes too hard. But if this system kicks in even when you brake gently then there is also some type of failure.

Unresponsive Brake Pedal

As your brake pads become worn out, your brake pedal might slowly become more and more unresponsive. If you find yourself pressing down multiple times for the brake to work or before the ABS kicks in then it is a clear sign that your car needs to be serviced although something else could also be wrong.

Changes Pedal Pressure

You should be able to press down on the brakes with relative ease. With that said, your brake pedal shouldn’t drop all the way down the moment you press down on it. Changes in your brake pedal pressure can be a sign of a problem with your ABS or the brake components themselves. It can also be very dangerous to keep driving your car when you notice that there is something wrong with the pedal pressure. 

If you notice any of these signs of failure then the best thing you can do is give A-Plus Auto and Electrical a call. These professionals can check out your system for you and they can do all the needed repairs. With their help, you will be a lot safer while traveling on various terrains and roads. 

The post Signs That Your Car’s ABS Might Not Be Functioning Well first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

Air conditioning systems that are not properly maintained can, however, start to affect your health. 

How Your Car’s Air Conditioning System Can Make You Sick

There are quite a few different ways your car’s AC system can make you feel unwell. Let’s take a look at the different ways the cooling or heating system of your car can affect your health.

• Bronchitis and Respiratory Issues After Sudden Temperature Changes

It is pretty natural to get sick if you step out of a warm and sweaty area into freezing temperatures and vice versa. A lot of people catch a chill when they drive around with a toasty car cabin temperature and then suddenly step into the freezing air when they stop for a break on their drive. The same goes for warm and sunny days. If you are sweating profusely after working out on a warm day and suddenly step into a freezing car cabin with icy air blowing on your chest you can get a cold or develop bronchitis.

This type of condition can easily be avoided by simply gradually increasing or decreasing your car cabin temperature when you get in or out of the car.

• Diseases From Bacterial Build Up

Your car’s AC system has a lot of filters. These filters are helpful for keeping the cabin nice and clean because they will filter out any dust particles and impurities in the air. Bacteria can, unfortunately, also become lodged in these filters. When you turn the AC system on bacteria can be blown into your vehicle and it can result in you getting this specific disease.

• Respiratory Conditions From Mould Growth

If the AC filter or AC system isn’t cleaned properly, it can create ideal growing conditions for mould and mildew. The fungal spores produced by these growths can affect your health and cause respiratory conditions when these particles become lodged into your lungs after turning on the ventilation system. 

• Asthma And Allergies From Dirty AC Systems

If your sinuses flare up or if you struggle to breathe after turning the AC system on then the filters are likely clogged with allergens like dust and pollen. This issue will keep recurring every time you turn on the AC system until the filters are cleaned out.

How To Keep Your Car’s AC (And Your Health) In Good Shape

There are quite a few things you can do that will keep you from getting ill when you are driving. The first and simplest thing you can do is to keep your car interior nice and clean. Next, you will need to take your car to a mechanic so the AC system can be thoroughly cleaned and maintained. Once the pipelines and air filters have been thoroughly cleaned, the system will function a lot better and your car won’t smell quite as messy or dusty. 

Another important step is to use your AC system the correct way. It is better to gradually increase and decrease the temperature settings so you won’t catch a chill when you get in and out of the vehicle. Gradual temperature increases can also make your car a lot more fuel efficient since your engine won’t have to work as hard to maintain an extremely cold or warm cabin temperature.

A Plus Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning

For any concerns related to your car’s aircon, the best thing you can do is bring it in to A-Plus Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning. These professionals will repair your AC system and can give this system a deep clean so you can stay comfortable and healthy on your long drives. 

The post Is Your Car’s AC Making You Sick? Signs And How To Repair first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

It is good to test your vehicle’s heating system before the cold starts to set in. In this guide, we are going to take a look at the best way to test your car’s heating and some of the most common issues you might encounter.

How To Test Your Car’s Heating System

To test if your heater is functioning properly, you will first need to fire the engine up. It will take a couple of minutes to warm up the engine and your air conditioning system won’t be able to produce any hot air during these first couple of minutes.

Turn the dial on your car’s air conditioning system to warm. You should immediately notice air circulate through the vents into your car. While your car is still cold, the air might be cool but it will quickly heat up as your engine warms up. 

If your car isn’t producing hot air within 10 to 15 minutes or if the air doesn’t seem to be blowing into your vehicle then there could be an issue with your heating system. 

If your car is warming up then you might also want to test the different temperature settings. A lot more air should pour into your car when it is set on a high heat and high fan setting and the temperature should gradually decrease as you turn the temperature down. 

If you can get your cabin temperature nice and toasty within 15 minutes without hearing any strange noises or noticing any air circulation issues then you need not worry. 

However, if the air conditioner isn’t blowing properly, if the temperature isn’t increasing, or if you have a tough time adjusting the temperature range then there is likely an issue.

The Most Common Car Heating System Issues

Your heating system’s performance can be affected by a number of different issues. Here is a quick look at the most common heating system issues.

Low Coolant Levels

Vehicles require coolant to produce hot air because coolant is important for heat exchange. The coolant levels can drop as you use your car over time or if there is a crack in the coolant tank, hose, or if the water pump or radiator forms a leak. A blown head gasket can also affect your coolant levels but there should be lots of other running issues if this happens.

Failed Heater Control Valve

The heater control valve is a divert that stops the antifreeze from pouring into the heater core. If this control valve is malfunctioning, your heater won’t function properly.

Blocked Cabin Air Filter

Air filters can become blocked over time. When your cabin air filter is blocked, it can reduce the overall airflow inside the vehicle and the air conditioner’s ability to cool down the cabin will be affected.

If you want a professional to take a look at your car’s heater or need to get this system repaired, then you should give A Plus Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning a call. These professionals can help you with any electrical issues, air conditioning pro

The post How To Test If Your Car’s Heating System Is Still In Good Condition first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

Repair And Maintain Your Car’s Air Conditioner

A broken air conditioning system can have a surprising impact on your car’s value and the longer it remains broken the bigger the impact will be. Prospective buyers will certainly note the air conditioning issue when they take the vehicle for a test drive and they will think twice about buying. The car market is, after all, highly competitive. Why buy your car when there are so many others with perfectly functional AC systems out there?

But that is hardly the biggest issue. When your air conditioner is broken you have no choice but to let down the windows while driving. This will let a lot of dust, grime, and dirt into your car interior. Over time, your car will start to smell like a dust ball and the dirt and grime will settle into all openings and cracks all over the interior. The upholstery, roof lining, and carpets will also become all dirty and stained. Over time, your entire car interior will become a mess and no one will be interested in buying. 

Getting your AC repaired and re-gassed is very important if you want to maintain your car’s value can make a huge difference in your driving comfort in the meantime.

Get Small Issues Fixed 

Small issues on your car like squealing brake pads, toxic odours, or startup problems might not seem like much right now but these tiny issues can result in huge mechanical failures. Mechanical issues can be very costly to repair and you won’t get a good price for your car unless it is in good running condition. It is much better to get small issues repaired before they result in huge failures.

Stick To Recommended Car Services

You should get your car serviced whenever these services are due. Skipping or postponing a service is very bad for your car and can even result in a complete breakdown if you keep pushing your car over the limits. And even if your car does hold up well despite being overdue, the skipped service will still have a huge impact on your sales price. This is because all car buyers take a look at your logbook. They will instantly know that your car is a ticking timebomb and you will have a tough time getting your old ride sold.

Get A Diagnostic Test Done Once A Year

With modern vehicles, it can be difficult to identify issues because there are so many electrical components. It is good to get a diagnostic test done once a year or whenever you notice strange behaviors like an increase in fuel consumption. These tests will identify all the problem areas in your car so you can get these small issues repaired before a breakdown occurs. 

If you notice any of these issues with your car or want to keep it in the best possible shape then you should reach out to A-Plus Auto Electrical. These mobile auto electrical professionals can help keep your vehicle in great shape so it can get a good sales price when you are ready to move on to something bigger and better. 

The post Tips To Help You Retain Your Car’s Value first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

The very best thing about Christmas is the cookies. 

And the best cookies can usually be found at grandma’s home, our parent’s home, or perhaps at a cousin’s or a best friend’s.

It is good to hit the road and go and visit family or friends whom you haven’t seen in a long while. The festive season is an ideal time to catch up with these special people in your life and strengthen family or friend bonds. Your travels will also take you to all sorts of beautiful sights or festivities that you can enjoy along the way.

Before you leave for your trip, you should take a couple of precautions and make sure your car is ready for the long and busy road. In this guide, we are going to share some great tips to prepare your vehicle for the long journey so you can stay safe and enjoy a comfortable drive.

1. Check The Battery

Car batteries need to be replaced every three to five years. In some cases, your car battery can last a little bit longer but most batteries will start creating issues after about 5 years of use. Dead car batteries are amongst the most common car issues you might experience during the festive season. Get your car battery tested before your drive and get it replaced if it is showing signs that it might be dying.

2. Do A Quick Safety Check

After checking your battery, you might as well do a quick safety check. Inspect the car and test the indicators, headlights, park lights, brakes, and the hooter. If you notice any issues then it is best to get these small problems fixed before you start out on your holiday. 

3. Top Up Your Air Conditioners Refrigerant Gas

If your car isn’t doing a good job at cooling off the cabinet or if you find yourself running the AC system on full blast but still sweat in your seat then you are likely out of refrigerant. It is a good idea to stop by a mechanic to get your levels topped up or to check for leaks. Taking on a long journey with an air conditioner that doesn’t work is bound to be a nightmare, especially if you are traveling in a region that is particularly hot and dry during the festive season.

4. Upgrade The Audio System

Plenty of vehicles have out-of-date audio systems that don’t offer advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, hands-free calling, or an LED display. If your car radio is old and out of date then this festive season might be a good time for an upgrade. A modern sound system will make it much easier to play all your favourite tracks and it can keep you safe on the road because you will be able to take calls without touching your phone. 

5. Check Your Fluid Levels

You should make a habit of always checking your fluid levels whenever you go on a long trip. Without sufficient fluids, your car can easily break down or the fuel efficiency and functionality could be affected. If you are not certain about the correct fluids to use for your specific car model then the best thing you can do is visit an auto shop for some assistance.

If you want your vehicle to perform great on the open road or if you want to avoid unnecessary breakdowns then you should give A Plus Auto a call. These mechanics can help you get your ride ready for the long journey and they can do all sorts of upgrades and repairs that could make yor trips a lot more comfortable. 

The post Prep Your Car For The Holidays With These Tips first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

In this guide, we are going to take a look at some of the most important maintenance tasks for keeping your ride in perfect shape.

Stick With Those Services At The Recommended Intervals

Car services can be expensive, especially if you are dealing with a major car service. But doing regular services at the recommended intervals is one of the best ways to save money in the long run. Car services are incredibly important for keeping your car in good condition. Skipping or postponing your service is a sure recipe for disaster because it can result in engine failures. The very best way to prevent costly breakdowns is to stick with the recommended car services.

Use A Trusted Servicing Company

While you are getting your car serviced or repaired, you should be careful to use a trusted company that knows what they are doing. Cheap mechanics often use counterfeit parts or they skimp out on certain tasks like oil changes. This can be very dangerous for your car and will cost you a lot when you start experiencing issues. It is always best to check a company’s track record and reviews before you start trusting your vehicle into their care.

Check The Battery Often

Car batteries usually only last 3 – 5 years depending on the brand and type. When the battery starts to give issues, it can cause damage to electrical components or the starter. It is wise to keep a close eye on your battery and to get it tested from time to time. This little tip won’t just prevent further damage to your car, it will also tell you when to start budgeting for a new battery.

Use The Air Conditioning System

A lot of people will advise you to avoid using the airconditioner because it can increase fuel consumption. And yes, this is true. However, using your air conditioner regularly can help prevent other costly damages. One of the damages you prevent, when you keep the windows rolled up, is interior damage in the form of dust, dirt, and grime that can affect your carpets, seats, and switches. Another damage you will prevent is to your air conditioner itself. Air conditioning systems that are never used will eventually run out of gas and can become damaged. Using the AC system can help you save quite a bit of cash in the long run.

Use The Correct Car Fluids

We all know how important it is to keep vehicle fluid levels topped up. But very few people realize how important it is to stick to the recommended fluid brands. There are lots of different types and brands of fluids like oil and coolant. The mixture of ingredients for these different brands can vary quite a bit. Some oils can cause a lot of product buildup inside your engine while some coolants might not be effective for keeping your engine nice and cool. It is better to spend a little bit more money on original brands because it can help you avoid a visit to the repair shop.

Don’t Park In The Sun

There are always some scenarios where you just don’t have a choice but park your car in direct sun. You should however do your best to keep your vehicle parked in the shade as much as possible. The harsh UV rays and high temperatures in Melbourne can quickly cause a lot of damage to your car’s interior and exterior. If you have to park in the sun then you should consider a couple of sun visors so your seats and dashboard will be protected.

If you do notice any issues with your ride or if it is time to get your vehicle serviced then the best thing you can do is book an appointment with A Plus Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning. These specialists will take great care of your ride and they offer affordable rates. 

The post Car Maintenance Tips To Save You Money In The Long Run first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

There are lots of things to love about an air conditioning system. In this article, we are going to take a quick look at some car air conditioning fun facts that might impress you.

The First Ac Units Were Built Into Cars In 1939

The American auto brand Packard was the first carmaker company to install AC systems into their vehicles. These systems were large and bulky and featured plenty of refrigerating coils behind the back seat. If the interior got too cold, the driver needed to stop the engine, open the hood, and disconnect the compressor belt before continuing with the journey. These AC systems were quickly abandoned because they were so costly and bulky.

Chrysler Launched A More Compact System In The 1950s

Auto manufacturers spent many years trying to streamline vehicle AC systems so they would be more practical. Chrysler was the first to create a small AC system that could be mounted inside the trunk of the car. The control system had to be installed in the back seat and included functions such as different fan speeds, the ability to reduce humidity levels, and functions that helped eliminate airborne particles like dust, smoke, or pollen.

Pontiac Was The First Brand To Fit An Ac System Under The Hood

Four years after Chrysler developed their trunk-fitted AC system, Pontiac developed a system that could fit under the hood. The basic design of this air conditioning system is still used in vehicles to this very day. Later that year, Nash-Kelvinator created the first AC system with a control unit installed on the vehicle’s instrument panel. 

Leaving Recirculation Mode On Can Be Bad For  Your Health

The recirculation mode in your vehicle is great for achieving a nice and cool interior environment much quicker. This is because his mode circulates the air inside the cabin back through the AC system instead of drawing in hot air from outside. 

This is also a useful feature if you are traveling through a highly polluted area since your car will recirculate cabin air instead of drawing in polluted air from outside.

But leaving your recirculation mode on for long journeys can be unhealthy. This is because the air quality can degrade over time since the same old air is reused. The recirculating mode can also promote the spread of viruses amongst passengers if it keeps circulating for too long.

Regular AC Maintenance Is Good For Your Health

Most air conditioning systems are designed with an air filter that filtrates contaminants like pollen, dust, and smoke before it enters your cabin. If the filter becomes clogged, it will reduce airflow and can cause unpleasant odors. This clogged filter is also a breeding ground for bacteria and can affect the air quality inside your vehicle. 

If you want to know even more about your car’s air conditioning system or if you want to get it serviced so you can enjoy high-quality air inside your vehicle then you should contact A-Plus Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning. These professionals can assist with any type of AC issue or they can give this system a good clean so it can function well.

The post Fun Facts You Should Know About Your Car’s Air Conditioning System first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

The signs of a failing alternator can be very misleading because they are often at times the exact same signs that you might notice when a battery fails. Here is a quick look at the top signs that your alternator might be on its way out.

The Lights Are Too Dim or Overly Bright

When an alternator starts to fail, it can alter the consistency of voltage in electrical components. This usually results in under or over-performance in electrical equipment. You might notice your headlights dim too much or become overly bright when you turn them on. You could also notice flickering lights or lights that switch from bright to dim or from dim to bright without your doing.

The Battery Is Dead

Car batteries typically only last about five years. But in some cases, your battery can fail as a result of a malfunctioning alternator. If the alternator is damaged, it won’t be able to fully charge the battery when you are driving. This can cause the battery to deplete faster. A brand new battery that suddenly ups and dies can also be a sign of a broken alternator because alterations in the surge can damage the battery.

If you jumpstart your car and it can safely keep driving then the battery is likely giving out but this doesn’t mean that the alternator is broken. But if you jumpstart your car and it does just a short while after the alternator isn’t doing its work.

Your Car Has Trouble Starting

If you turn the key in the ignition and you only hear a clicking sound, it could be a sign of a dead battery or a malfunctioning alternator. This usually happens when the battery is dying or when the alternator isn’t recharging the battery so there will be enough energy for start-ups. 

You Hear Growling or Whining Noises

Odd sounds like growling or whining noises coming from the engine can mean all sorts of issues – including alternator problems. It is important to always get strange noises checked out and it is usually best to get your alternator repaired before it results in damage to the battery.

You Can Smell Burning Wires

The smell of burning rubber or burning wires can also be a sign that the alternator parts are becoming worn out. Alternators have a drive belt that is constantly under a lot of tension and friction. Over time, this belt can become worn down and can start to emit odours. When the belt becomes worn, it can cause the alternator to become overworked and heated. This may cause wires to start melting or could even cause a fire.

The Battery Warning Light Is On

Take a look at your dashboard. If the battery warning sign is lighting up it could mean battery problems or it could be an issue with your alternator. This little light can however also light up when you have some other electrical issue in the car. 

If you notice any of these signs in your car then it is very important to get your car and battery checked out. At A Plus Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning, they can do a full car inspection and a professional mechanic can pinpoint the exact issue with your car. These professionals can also help with any alternator repair or replacement so you can get back on the road and enjoy a safe driving experience without any unexpected electrical issues. 

The post The Signs of a Faulty Alternator to Look Out For first appeared on Aplusautoelectrical.

What Is An ABS System?

A car’s ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) is a system that keeps your brakes from locking firmly when you hit the brake pedal. With this system, you can still brake effectively, but the wheels’ axle doesn’t stop turning altogether. 

The Importance of ABS Systems

Without an ABS system, your wheel axils are forced to a stop when you hit the brakes. Your wheels stop turning but your car still keeps moving as it starts to skid over the road. Skidding can be very dangerous since it can make you lose control of your car, especially if you are traveling at high speeds.

ABS systems can’t make your car stop any faster than your traditional braking system. In fact, it can prolong the braking distance a bit. But this system keeps your car from skidding so you won’t lose control. This gives you the possibility to steer your car while braking and can potentially help you avoid an accident. 

ABS systems are also useful for expanding the lifespan of your tires, brake pads, and brake calipers because excessive braking without ABS often results in flat spots on the tyres and causes significant wear on the brake pads. 

Signs That your ABS System Might Be Malfunctioning

Your car’s ABS system is usually checked with every car service. But in some cases, this system can also give out prematurely. Here is a quick look at the most common signs of a failing ABS system.

The ABS Light Comes On

There is an ABS indicator on your dash that usually goes on when something is off with this system. There can be several reasons for this light to suddenly go on like the following;

Malfunctioning ABS Module

This is the traction control system that is designed to cut off power to any wheels that start skidding and reinstates power once the tyre is under control again. When issues with this control system occur, the light will go on.

Low Fluid Levels

Your brake system functions with the help of hydraulic fluid that is responsible for making brake pads push against the wheel to force it to stop. When the fluid levels are low, your brakes won’t work effectively and the light will go on.

Damaged Wheel Speed Sensors

Wheel speed sensors are important for monitoring the speed of each independent wheel. If there are fluctuations in the wheel speed, the traction control unit will make adjustments so all wheels can function at the same speed. But if this sensor malfunctions, your traction, and ABS system can’t tell just how fast the wheel is truly going which may result in all sorts of odd handling and braking issues.

The ABS System Is Turned Off

The ABS light also goes on if the ABS system is switched off. 

The Wheels Skid More

If your car wheels skid more than usual when you suddenly hit the brakes, it could be a sign that the ABS system isn’t working well. The most likely cause for this issue is that the control module isn’t functioning well and doesn’t supply the correct amount of hydraulic fluid to the wheels when you hit the brakes.

Your car’s ABS system is a very important safety feature that can help you avoid accidents. If this system isn’t functioning well or if the ABS indicator goes on, then the best thing you can do is to give A-Plus Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning a call so this system can be sorted out. With the help of experts, your ABS system will be back in good working condition in no time at all. 

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