5 Signs That Suggest Your Car Needs Fuel Pump Replacement

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Autohaus

Fuel pumps last a really long time, but not forever. The average fuel pump will need to be replaced once a vehicle nears the 100,000 mile marker, while some are reported to last closer to 200,000 miles. But malfunctions do happen, causing fuel pumps to go out before their manufactured expiration date.

If you suspect that something is going wrong with your car, it could be a problem with your fuel pump. Continue reading to learn the top 5 signs that suggest your vehicle needs fuel pump replacement, plus where to get trusted fuel system service in Carmel, Indiana for Luxury and European vehicles.

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When a Fuel Pump Goes Out

The fuel pump plays an important role in the overall driveability and operation of a vehicle. Without a properly operating fuel pump, the engine will not get the fuel delivery needed to start. There is a necessary fuel-to-air ratio that must be met in order for the engine to get the power needed fuel the cylinders and fire up the pistons.

Because of the unique role of the fuel pump, the signs are often easy to spot. If you notice any automotive malfunctions or changes in your car’s performance, your car might have a bad fuel pump, in which case, your likely recourse is fuel pump replacement.

Common Signs of a Fuel Pump Problem

Failed Ignition Attempts

Can you get your car to start? If you are experiencing multiple failed attempts when trying to start the car, you should have your fuel pump checked out. Most often, this is due to structural damage of the fuel pump itself, but sometimes, the pump is just clogged. If the car will not turn over at all, fuel pump damage is the likely culprit. If the engine cranks but won’t turn over all the way, you may just be dealing with a clogged fuel pump.

Sputtering and Stalling

If your car is routinely sputtering or stalling while driving, it could be an indication of a failing fuel pump. In most cases, the fuel pump is working at a low pressure, so the engine is not getting the fuel it needs to generate combustion. If the car starts, drives away, but then stalls, it is usually because your fuel pump is not doing its job, and the engine cannot keep the car running.

Rear Bumper Whirring

Backseat noises like whirring or humming can point directly back to the fuel pump. These noises are naturally generated by the operation of the fuel pump, but we usually cannot hear them. When the fuel pump starts to malfunction, it is forced to work harder, which can make the noises get louder.

Engine Surging

Do the engine revolutions randomly surge and swell while you drive? This is a common sign of a faulty fuel pump. Opposite of fuel pump clogs and low pressure, engine surging is caused by a malfunction that sends too much fuel to the cylinders. This often causes the car to suddenly pick up speed and soon after, slow down.

Increased Fuel Consumption

Noticing changes in gas mileage, specifically reduced gas mileage, is a common indication of a fuel system problem. As for the fuel pump, it can be responsible for increased gas consumption when its internal parts and bearings deteriorate or break. Deterioration or damage can cause extra gasoline to be sent to the engine, which goes unused.

Are you looking for trusted fuel pump repair in the Indianapolis areas for your Audi or Volkswagen? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for fuel system repair in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles. We also sell refurbished used auto parts!

Top 3 Things You Need to Know About Your Car Battery

Posted on April 5, 2022 by Autohaus

Virtually all automotive parts and components within your vehicle are critical to its overall performance and safety. Your car battery is one of those essential automotive parts, making it a priority in terms of routine maintenance and care. Continue reading to learn the top three things you need to know about your car battery in order to ensure, durability, longevity, and performance.

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Responsible Car Battery Maintenance and Care

Being a responsible vehicle owner means practicing responsible and consistent car battery maintenance and care. Not only should you know how long your car battery is expected to last, but you should also know how to jump start a dead car battery and how to conscientiously recycle a used car battery.

Car Battery Lifespan

Most automotive batteries are designed to last anywhere between three and five years. However, there are many factors and conditions that can cause a car battery to expend its power earlier or later. If you are someone who drives frequently, but only in short trips and distances, you might be running out your car battery faster than a person who drives less often and farther distances. That is because your car battery uses a lot of power every time you turn over the ignition and does not have enough time to fully recharge itself during the short drive. If your car starts to experience electrical shortages or malfunctions, like dimming lights or stalling, it could be a sign that you need to replace the car battery.

Car Battery Jump Starts

As a driver, it is wise to take the initiative to learn how to jump start a car battery. For the most specific instructions for your make and model vehicle, refer to your owners’ manual to learn how to jump start your dead car battery. Furthermore, consider keeping a set of jumper cables in your trunk in case your car battery dies while you are away from home. If you cannot fit jumper cables in your car, no need to worry. Most people have some, so just ask if you ever need a jump start. After all, you will need a second, operational vehicle to jump start a dead car battery.

Car Battery Recycling

Car batteries contain a large amount of hazardous chemicals, and toxic materials, and therefore should be disposed of responsibly and safely. Recycling car battery in your community is the most responsible way to dispose of a used car battery. Contact a local scrapyard or matter recycling center to see if they accept car batteries, because some facilities do not. You can also check with your local automotive shop, as they often accept used car batteries for disposal, but you may have to pay a fee for this.

Are you looking for superior automotive service for a European and German brand vehicle near Carmel, Indiana? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

Top 4 Car Maintenance Services That Keep You Safe

Posted on March 23, 2022 by Autohaus

From the very first time you were handed those car keys, safety has been the number one lesson of driving. As a mature and experienced driver today, you are just as committed to safe driving as you were back in drivers’ education program. That is why you take very good care of your ride. After all, routine car maintenance is the ultimate foundation of safe driving.

It is important to refer the owners’ manual or your trusted mechanic for information on your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Yet, of all the car maintenance services to outsource from your local auto shop, be sure these 4 always make your list of priorities if you want to stay safe on the road.

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Car Maintenance For Driving Safety

Car maintenance is important because it keeps your vehicle running smoothly, performing efficiently, and functioning as expected. It can also keep you legal on the road. There are many types of car maintenance services you should be adding to your routine car care program, but of all the ones to choose, these four will contribute the most to your safety:

❶ Car Brakes

Without the ability to stop your car on demand, you are essentially an uncontrollable 5,000 pound missile out on the road. For this reason and more, routine car brake maintenance is the most critical services to outsource for your driving safety. Routine car brake maintenance includes changing outworn breaks as soon as you notice the signs of brake failure, as well as regular replacements of brake pads and brake rotors. Brake fluid is a vital automotive fluid that should also be replaced as needed. Refer to your car owners’ manual for information on when to change your brake fluid.

❷ Exterior Lights

If your night driver, the exterior lights of your vehicle are your first line of defense against anything obstructing your path of driving. Prioritize exterior car light maintenance to ensure your driving safety during nighttime trips. Exterior car lights include headlights (including high beams), taillights, turn signals, reverse lights, and hazards. If your car has some, it is important to ensure that your fog lights are always functional as well.

❸ Windshield Wiper Fluid

Regardless of season or time of year, when should wiper fluid is a vital automotive fluid to have at all times. In fact, you should always keep an extra bottle of it in your trunk. Our line of sight while driving is critical. After all, you can drive a car if you can’t see. Along with exterior lighting, your windshield wiper fluid can play a vital role in your driving safety if your windshield is suddenly splattered with bird droppings, rain, mud, dirt, or any other obstruction is blocking your view.

❹ Additional Automotive Fluids

In addition to you when should wiper fluid, there are several other automotive fluids that are vital for the safety and performance of your vehicle. Not only will these liquids keep you safe on the road, but they will also help you maintain your budget when it comes to car maintenance and auto repair expenses. Basically, if you want to save money, take good care of your car by keeping it lubricated and hydrated. The top automotive fluids that every vehicle requires for efficient performance, safety, and protection against damages includes include motor oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, battery fluid, power steering fluid, and in some cases, differential fluid.

Is your vehicle currently experiencing some mechanical malfunctions or performance issues? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and auto service in Carmel, Indiana. We specialize in all make and model European and German vehicles.

European Auto Repair and Service - Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800 — European Auto Repair and Service – Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

The Difference Between Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Posted on March 8, 2022 by Autohaus

Many people use the terms transmission fluid and differential fluid interchangeably, but the two automotive fluids are actually quite different. In fact, knowing the difference is a critical part of good car care. Not sure which fluid your car takes? Always thought they were the same thing? Confused on which fluids your vehicle needs?

Continue reading to learn the difference between transmission fluid and differential fluid, how these fluids work, and more.

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Differential Fluid and Transmission Fluid Are Not the Same

When it comes to differential and transmission fluid, there are many differences, but they all lie under the primary difference that separates the two most distinctively: application. Differential and transmission fluid are two different automotive fluids primarily because they serve two difference functions. One fluid is for vehicles with manual gearboxes and the other for automatic transmission vehicles. Which one is which? Let’s take a closer look.

Differential Fluid

Differential fluid, also known as gear oil, is designed for vehicles with manual gearboxes controlled by a clutch, pedal, and stick shift. Manual gearboxes are designed as a two-shaft system, and although this design gives manual cars more oomph, it produces an enormous amount of heat and friction. Differential fluid helps lubricate the inner moving components, thus supporting a smoother operation and protecting the engine from damage.

Key Attributes of Gear Oil:

▶ Thicker Viscosity
▶ Higher Heat Resistance
▶ High Pressure Resistance

Transmission Fluid

Opposite of differential fluid, transmission fluid is designed to work specifically with automatic transmission vehicles. Because automatic transmissions operate at lower degrees of heat and friction, they require a different level of lubrication. Transmission fluid is designed with unique properties that adequately lubricate the engine and support transfer of power.

Key Attributes of Transmission Fluid:

▶ Thinner/Lower Viscosity
▶ Lower Degree of Heat Resistance
▶ Anti-Foaming Technology

FAQS About Transmission and Differential Fluid:

Can You Use Transmission Fluid in Place of Differential Fluid?

In emergency situations, you can put transmission fluid in your differential, but beware of the lower degree of viscosity compared to differential fluid. Your vehicle will burn through it quickly, so change it out or replace it with the right fluid as soon as possible.

Can I Use Engine Oil Instead of Differential Fluid?

Never, under any circumstances, put engine oil in your differential. This will result in devastating damages to your engine. Engine oil is much different than gear oil, mostly it cannot withstand high pressure. Therefore, engine oil should never be used in place of gear oil.

Will Something Bad Happen if I Use the Wrong Car Fluid?

There are damaging effects of using the wrong fluid in your car. Your vehicle might experience engine overheating, transmission breakdown, and internal engine damage. If you believe you put the wrong -fluid in your car or truck, consult with a licensed mechanic in Carmel, IN right away.

Does your car engine or transmission need some professional attention? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for transmission repair and engine repair service in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in European auto service. Request a free estimate, anytime.

8 Automotive Problems Caused By Cold Weather

Posted on February 21, 2022 by Autohaus

Here in Indiana, the changing seasons and packed all sorts of aspects of our lives. During the winter, even our cars can suffer certain mechanical failures or difficulties. From your car battery and motor oil to your windshield wipers, fuel lines, and even interior cabin LCD screens, cold-weather and freezing temperatures can bring about a long list of automotive challenges. Fortunately, with proper routine maintenance, most of these wintertime vehicular problems can be avoided.

Continue reading to learn the top 8 automotive problems caused by cold weather, how to prevent them, and what you can do to resolve them if they happen to you this season.

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8 Ways the Cold Winter Season Affects Your Car

Windshield Wipers

In temperatures cold enough, windshield wipers can pose all sorts of problems. Windshield wiper fluid can freeze, leaving drivers without a means to rinse their front windshields of slush and dirt brought on by the winter precipitation and climate. Also, the rubber components on windshield wiper blades can freeze or lose moisture. This causes them to turn brittle and break off in pieces. It is recommended to keep an extra set of windshield wiper blades and a bottle of fluid in your vehicle for these kinds of seasonal windshield wiper problems.

LCD Screens

Crystal display LCD screens have the tendency to slow down during the colder winter months. LCD screens become sluggish this time of year because the molecules in the liquid crystals partially freeze. If your screens are delayed, allow your vehicle to heat up for 20 minutes or so. This should help thaw out the liquid crystal displays enough to get them working at a more functional speed again.

Tires

Underinflated tires are a very common automotive problem in the wintertime, and one that you should always be expecting. The cold temperatures because the tire walls to contract, which causes the tire to lose pressure and become underinflated. It is important to routinely check your tire pressure, especially if you are preparing to head on the road for a long trip. Keep handy tire gauge in your car so that you can measure the air in your tires on demand. The recommended PSI for car tires varies depending on the tire brand and the make and model of your vehicle. Talk to your local Carmel Indianapolis mechanic for advice on proper tire inflation for your car or truck.

Car Battery

Dead car batteries are another common wintertime seasonal automotive problem. Like LCD screens and the air inside of car tires, cold or freezing temperatures cause the electrolyte liquid inside of your batteries to freeze or thicken. As a result, a car battery will lose power. Fortunately, solving a dead battery problem is easy. All you need are set of jumper cables and a pal whose vehicle still has engine power. Jump-starting a dead car battery is simple and can be done on your own. You can look up instructions in your owner’s manual or online through a trusted source.

Motor Oil

Like many other things in your vehicle, the motor oil can thicken up significantly in cold winter temperatures. In fact, the colder it gets, the thicker oil becomes. In especially freezing temperatures, namely below 20°F, motor oil can become so thick that the engine oil pump has trouble circulating it through the necessary channels. To help prevent this, switch to a low viscosity motor oil in the winter. This will help reduce the rate at which your motor oil freezes as temperatures drop.

Antifreeze

There is a bit of a pattern when it comes to wintertime automotive problems. Antifreeze, also referred to as coolant, can also be affected by freezing temperatures in cold weather. This is especially true if the water-to-coolant ratios are off in your vehicle. If your coolant ratios are and balanced, it reduces its ability to protect your engine from inclement winter elements. Because 100% antifreeze has a higher freezing point, it is recommended to dilute it with water in the winter. This will help you avoid having any antifreeze problems. You can also buy an automotive tool called a refractometer that will check your coolant’s freezing point. proper care

Fuel Lines

Just like many of the things in your car during the winter, fuel lines can freeze over. Water inside the gas lines can turn icy in extreme cold temperatures, which can clog the fuel pump. Frozen fuel lines are a common wintertime automotive problem, but 100% avoidable with a little preventative maintenance. Professionals recommend keeping your fuel tank half-full during the coldest parts of the season.

Serpentine Belts

In the automotive mechanic industry, the term “snow snake”is used to colloquially describe frozen serpentine belts. Result in complete automotive breakdown. Serpentine belts can freeze over to the point that they snap or break apart, which will result in total automotive breakdown. Generally, this happens to older serpentine belts. So, if your car is fairly new, you may not have to worry about this problem. If your car is a bit older, you can avoid snow snakes by taking your vehicle into your local Carmel IN mechanic for a pre-winter inspection. This will ensure that your serpentine belts are in good shape to come and commit weather conditions.

Does your luxury or European vehicle require winter automotive service? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis. We are German-trained mechanics specializing in European make and model vehicles.

Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs Fuel System Cleaning

Posted on January 31, 2022 by Autohaus

Fuel system cleanings are more important than you might think. Although it is a car maintenance requirement that is often overlooked, now that winter is here, it couldn’t be more significant. Continue reading to learn the top 5 signs that suggest your vehicle is ready for a fuel system cleaning service, plus where to get trusted automotive maintenance work for European and German vehicles in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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How to Tell That You Need Fuel System Cleaning

Decrease fuel system performance can have significant negative impacts, not only on your vehicle and its internal correlated systems, but also on your bank account. So, how do you know when your fuel system is ready for cleaning service? Well, you have to lo although there are many, the top five include a hard-pressed gas pedal, decreased acceleration, power, bumpy or rough idling, engine stalling, and decreased gas mileage.

Top 5 Signs of Decreased Fuel System Performance:

➀ Stiff Gas Pedal
➁ Reduced Acceleration Power
➂ Bumpy Rough Idling
➃ Engine Stall Outs
➄ Poor Gas Mileage

Although these five signs can also be indicative of separate automotive mechanical issues, if your vehicle is exhibiting any of them, it is necessary to bring them into a local Indianapolis auto shop for inspection and service. Failing to resolve a fuel system problem can lead to costly repairs and invasive automotive work. It can also be very dangerous to operate a vehicle that is experiencing any of these symptoms, or similar automotive malfunctions.

Regular Car Maintenance is Essential for Fuel System Protection

It is important to stay on top of factory scheduled maintenance are committed by your vehicle’s manufacturer. You can find these car maintenance guidelines in your owner’s manual, or you can consult with a local and trusted Indianapolis mechanic for personalized car care advice.

What Fuel System Cleaning Service Includes

When you take your car into your local automotive mechanic shop, you can expect fuel cleaning service to be very affordable, generally running anywhere between $50 and $80. With fuel, cleaning service, the mechanic will clean all carbon deposits that might be clogging the throttle body, remove any additional buildup on the components between the throttle body and the engine cylinder, and clean all fuel injectors.

Are you looking for a trusted Carmel, Indiana auto shop for European and German automotive maintenance and repair? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We are German-trained mechanics specializing in European make and model vehicles.

5 Automotive Modifications That Will Increase Horsepower

Posted on January 19, 2022 by Autohaus

As a car owner and driver, you are dedicated to taking good care of your vehicle. From routine maintenance and regular car washes to safe driving habits, adequate insurance coverage, and all the interior cabin gadgets you can find, your job as a responsible driver is fulfilled. But what about power? If you wish there was something you could do to give your car or truck a little more oomph, you are in luck. There are several automotive modifications you can add to your existing ride to increase its horsepower and get to your destinations faster.

Continue below to learn the top 5 ways you can increase your vehicle’s horsepower with after-market modification installations.

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How to Make Your Car Drive Faster

Horsepower is engine power, and therefore, essential when it comes to all sorts of driving needs, like making a green light, driving uphill, or passing someone on the interstate. Whether your car does not come factory-equipped with adequate horsepower, or your vehicle is just older and not as capable as it once was, these 5 mods can increase the oomph of your engine and transmission controls, making your ride faster and peppier:

Cold Air Intake

One of the most common go-to automotive modifications for increasing horsepower is a cold air intake. Cold air is denser, so more of it gets inside the engine cylinders and mixes with the gasoline. More cold air means more combustion, which means a more powerful engine.

Not only will cold air intake increase engine power by as much as 7 HP, but they are also suggested to be the cheapest option. According to CarParts.com, cold air intakes can be as low as $40 or so, depending on factors like retailer, features, and brand.

Cat-Back Exhaust

A cat-back exhaust is not an added car part, but rather, a modification to an existing one. You can give your ride a cat-back exhaust by straightening out the pipes from the catalyst in the exhaust tubing to the rear of the vehicle. This mod is suggested to loosen up the whole muffler system, which in turn increases cold air intake and ultimately, combustion in the engine.

Reflashing

Reflashing is done to a vehicle’s computer system to change the car’s programming. Everything from timing and fuel-air mixture ratios to other related horsepower-enhancing elements can be reconfigured to meet your HP expectations. Keep in mind, this option is reserved for vehicles that are turbocharged or supercharged.

High-Flow Catalyst

It is suggested that combining a high-flow catalyst with a cat0-back exhaust is a sure-fire combination to increase horsepower in a vehicle. High-flow catalysts are innovative aftermarket catalytic converters that catalyzes the exhaust flow at a quicker rate, therefore, supplying more power to the engine. Do not try to remove your catalyst yourself if it is not already broken, as there are local and state laws prohibiting this.

Tires

Modifying your car tires can also increase your vehicle’s horsepower. Consider swapping out your entire set with a shorter set, which might help increase acceleration through aerodynamics. Beware, switching to shorter tires can throw off your speedometer readings. You can also take your vehicle in for regular tire alignments. Straighter tires that all point forward work better together, which can deliver more traction and ultimately, heightened engine response. Lighter tires may also increase horsepower, such as carbon-fiber wheels.

Do you want to improve the performance and efficiency of your luxury German car? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European car service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles.

How to ‘Break In’ a Brand New Car

Posted on December 13, 2021 by Autohaus

When you purchase a brand new vehicle, you might hear someone tell you to “break it in, slowly.” But do new cars need to be “broken in?” They aren’t shoes, after all. What does breaking in a new car even entail? How long does it take to break in a new car? Well, in the automotive industry, this is known as conditioning, and it is a good mechanical run-in for new vehicles within the first thousand miles of driving.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about breaking in a new car or truck, and what you can do to ensure that your new ride transitions into a daily driver smoothly.

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Engine Care in the First 500 to 1,000 Miles

Breaking in a new car is known as automotive conditioning, which is essentially a mechanical warm-up recommended for brand new vehicles with little to no miles on them. Really, automotive conditioning is all about the engine rather than the vehicle in its entirety. The break-in period will vary depending on the make and model of a car, but usually, it is suggested to be between the first 500 miles and 1,000 miles. The conditioning period may be extended for vehicles that are not driven as often or with larger-than-standard engines.

Benefits of Auto Conditioning

This conditioning period is good for new cars because it allows the engine to begin the journey of wear and tear, evenly and smoothly. The combination of low and consistent pressure, ambient operating temperatures, and efficient oil flow can ease the engine load as its lifespan begins. All of this can help to reduce mechanical problems within the engine and connected internal parts down the line. Working the engine too hard too soon can affect the piston rings, cylinder walls, and more.

Fortunately, modern automotive manufacturing innovations and technologies have significantly reduced break in periods for most vehicles. However, you can still do your part to protect your new car engine from premature wear down, plus support optimal longevity and performance.

What You Can Do to Break In Your Car

To break in a new car, follow these important auto care tips:

▷ Do not push the engine to the red line. Keep your RMPs well-under the red line.

▷ Extend the break in period if you have a high-performance car.

▷ For manual transmissions, always shift gears before the RMPs reach the red line.

▷ Avoid using cruise control. Allow the engine to experience the flushing of RPM intervals.

▷ Avoid driving very short distances. You want to engine to fully warm up on each drive.

▷ Do not have the car towed unless it is a flatbed rig. Towing can put too much load on the engine, tires, and brakes.

Are you looking for a qualified Indianapolis mechanic for your new European car? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for professional European auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are factory-trained German mechanics who specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen, but work on all European and British cars.

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Why You Should Never Use Dish Soap to Hand Wash a Luxury Car

Posted on November 29, 2021 by Autohaus

Your luxury vehicle is an important asset. Not only is it an investment, but it is a special interest piece in your life. For these reasons, your top priority for your luxury vehicle should be to keep it in pristine condition for as long as possible. Regular maintenance and cleaning are two of the most effective approaches for achieving this collective auto enthusiast goal.

For many luxury brand car owners, hand washing is the only way to go when it comes to a car wash. Automatic car washes, even ones that advertising to be “touchless” can cause structural and aesthetic damages to luxury vehicles, especially low profile cars like Porches and Lamborghinis. So, if you opt to wash your car manually, you are making a safe choice. That is, so long as you do not use dishwashing detergent, even a mild one.

Continue reading to learn why using dish soap to wash a luxury car is a bad idea, and what to use in place of store-bought detergents.

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The Dangers of Dish Soap Car Washing

There are many reasons why you should never use dishwashing detergent or liquid dish soaps to hand wash your luxury car. Not only can they remove your precious and vital automotive wax and clear coat, but they can also weaken automotive paint UV-resistance, cause rust formation, fog up headlights, pollute the environment, and even pose certain health risks.

Using Dish Soap on a Car Can…

► Remove Car Wax

Most dish soaps, even mild formulas, contain harsh ingredients designed to eliminate grease. So, they can easily strip automotive wax after just one application. Overtime, repeated use of dish soap on a luxury car can remove the layer of wax and clear coat, and eventually lead to paint damage.

► Reduce UV Protection

Repeated use of dish soap to wash a car can negatively impact the automotive paint’s ability to resist damaging UV light. As a result, paint will fade, peel, and crack. It also makes your cabin a lot hotter in the warmer seasons of the year.

► Lead to Rust Formation

Oxidation is a common consequence of using dish soap to wash cars. Oxidation is rust, and it forms due to a combination of sunlight, moisture, and oxygen exposure. When automotive wax and paint are jeopardized or in poor condition, dish soap applications can quickly lead to rust formation.

► Cause Foggy Headlights

Dish soap can cause your car’s headlights to fog up because of the suds produced during the cleansing process. Soap residues will buildup on the surface of the headlights overtime, causing a hazy, cloudy appearance that is not easily reversed.

► Pollute the Environment

Most dish detergents are not safe for the surrounding environment. Even mild solutions contain man-made chemicals and stringent ingredients that can be harmful to plant life, wildlife, and the atmosphere. Soapy water runoff can enter the local sewer systems and storm drains, which can lead to further pollution to our underground water tables, ponds, oceans, lakes, streams, and more.

► Threaten Your Health

Believe it or not, using dish soap to wash your beloved car on a regular basis can be bad for your health. Detergents, as mentioned, contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that can be toxic to the environment. Well, they are just as toxic to our health. Ingredients like DMDM Hydantoin, formaldehyde, and sulfuric acid are common in dish soap, and proven to be harmful.

What to Use Instead of Dish Soap

Always use a detergent that is specially designed for car washing. You can buy these products at any local department store, auto parts store, or online retailer. Make sure the detergent is compatible with your particular car wax and paint.

Are you looking for specialized auto repair for your luxury European vehicle? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

How to Make Your BMW More Eco-Friendly

Posted on October 28, 2021 by Autohaus

If you modified your lifestyle habits to be more environmentally-friendly a long time ago, you will certainly appreciate the idea of going green with your BMW! Continue reading to learn how you can make your cherished BMW more Eco-friendly and which European auto shop to trust for superior factory-trained service in Indianapolis.

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Going Green With Your BMW

You can protect the surrounding environment with mindful changes with your BMW car or SUV. Not only can these greener habits and objectives help you support environmental preservation and protection, but it will also save you some cash! Here are the top ways you can be greener, which in turn can make your BMW Eco-friendlier:

Stay Current on All BMW Maintenance

Routine maintenance is one of the most important elements of car care. There is a good reason why the manufacturer recommends a variety of scheduled services for your BMW. So, trust in the mechanical engineers and automakers when they tell you to you get an oil change, change your brake pads, or tune up your engine. With routine BMW maintenance, you can ensure your Bimmer is in tip-top shape, which allows it to perform at optimal levels of efficiency. Not only is this better on the environment, but it also saves you on fuel costs.

Practice Safe Automotive Fuel Disposal

Automotive fluids are toxic to the environment, and therefore, should be disposed of responsibly. If you would like to go green with your BMW, be sure you are getting rid of oil coolant, motor oil, and gasoline according to local and state regulations. Check with your county to see designated spots for chemical disposal, then be one step closer to greener driving!

Recycle Your Old Tires

Almost everything within a vehicle is recyclable, including the tires. And rubber is an important commodity that should be recycled at every chance you get. Mining for new ores generates a lot of pollution and uses massive amounts of resources. You can help reduce mining needs and support the preservation of our natural resources by always recycling your old tires before buying new ones.

Drive a Reduced Speeds

Sure, your BMW is sporty and fast, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive it like you are on a racetrack. By slowing down a bit, you can reduce your fuel consumption, which can have a positive trickle effect on preserving our natural resources and reducing our carbon footprint.

Take Stuff Out of the Trunk

A heavier car uses more fuel, which in turn drives up the demand for gasoline, and with it, prices. Higher fuel demands mean exhausting more and more resources that could otherwise be preserved. When you take extra stuff out of the trunk, you can lighten your BMW’s load and support this Eco-friendly initiate. It is recommended to keep emergency roadside items in there, like spare tires and kits.

Are you looking for trusted European mechanics in your area? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for BMW service and repair in Carmel, Indiana. Our German mechanics are factory-trained with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive service industry.