Concord Auto Repair

How a Relative Compression Test Helps Diagnose Engine Problems At Accomplished Auto, we use a test called a relative compression test to help figure out what’s going on when your engine has a misfire or runs rough. This test is fast, safe, and doesn’t require taking anything apart. We hook up a special tool called a lab scope and crank your engine. The tool shows a graph with lines representing each cylinder’s compression (pressure). If one line is lower than the others, that tells us one cylinder might have a problem. We also have other tools for this test as well as some vehicles. Ford for example have tools for this test in OEM capable scan tools as well. This test doesn’t tell us exactly what’s wrong, but it gives us a strong clue. For example, if all cylinders look good, we know the problem isn’t likely caused by low compression. That means we can focus on other possible issues like spark or fuel. But if one cylinder is low, we know to check ... read more

Fuel Pump Diagnostics, Testing & Replacement in Concord, NH Fuel pumps are the unsung heroes of your car’s engine. They quietly send fuel from the tank to keep your vehicle running. When they start to fail, it can leave you stranded or struggling to accelerate. Here we will talk about some of the signs of a weak or failing pump as well as the complexities of today’s modern fuel systems. As well as why proper testing and diagnostics are critical to repairing these systems. Including systems with more than one pump with sophisticated speed and volume control modules. Also, how Accomplished Auto in Concord, NH can help with professional fuel pump testing and high-quality replacement. Finally, we’ll share some tips to extend your fuel pump’s life. Let’s dive in! Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump How do you know if your fuel pump is on its way out? Watch for these warning signs: Difficult Starts: The engine cranks longer than usual or requires multiple attem ... read more

Why Tire Rotation and Balance Matter Tire care isn’t just about keeping your car looking good. It is also about safety, comfort, and cost savings. Here’s why this service matters more than you might think: 1. Longer Tire Life Rotating your tires ensures they wear evenly, which can extend their lifespan by thousands of miles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Performing regular tire rotations helps prevent irregular tread wear. This keeps all four tires performing at their best. Uneven wear shortens tire life; however, tire rotation can save you money by delaying replacements. 2. Better Handling and Safety Even tread wear and proper balance mean better grip and control, especially in slippery fall and winter conditions. Balanced tires also prevent vibration and steering shake. This gives you a safer, smoother ride on highways and backroads alike. 3. Improved Comfort If you’ve noticed your steering wheel vibrating or your ca ... read more

Cold mornings have a way of revealing a car’s true condition. You might turn the key or press the start button and hear a slow, tired crank, or worse, nothing at all. It’s easy to blame the battery, but there’s often more happening beneath the surface. Cold weather drains battery strength and tests your entire charging system. If either one isn’t performing as it should, your car may struggle to start when temperatures drop. Here’s what’s really going on and what you can do to keep your vehicle reliable all winter long. Why Batteries Struggle More in the Cold When temperatures fall, the chemical reactions inside your battery slow down. That means it produces less power for the starter and ignition system. At the same time, cold oil thickens, and the engine takes more effort to turn over. These two factors together make winter th ... read more

Why Does My Battery Die When Not Driven? We have had customers come in complaining of a dead battery. Upon questioning we find that sometimes the customer does admit that it has been 2 to even 4 weeks or more since they last drove. Even worse are the cars that only drive once a month or less. On the downside this is normal behavior for modern cars with all the electronics and convenience features they have. On the upside there are things that you can do to help with this issue. Why a Battery Dies While the Car Is Parked Even when your car is off, systems like the security alarm, infotainment memory, and emission monitors stay active. These things and how they operate varies by car make model and options package. Most cars have some amount of energy use off which is also called parasitic draws. Most vehicles start out when they are first turned off with a relatively high draw. But as the systems power down and finish doing all the tests and other things they do it tapers down to a lo ... read more