As gasoline engines become more complicated over the years, so are the materials needed to make them function.

Many cars still use traditional oil, but as the years go by, the use of synthetic oil is gaining traction. This means if you buy or lease a new or used car, you’ll want to know what kind of motor oil you will need.

A synthetic oil change is different from a traditional oil change, so if you need one done, check out this guide to learn more about synthetic oil changes or contact European Motors in Silver Lake.

What Makes Synthetic Oil Different From Traditional Oil?

Unlike traditional oil, synthetic oil is man-made.

It can lubricate:

• Conventional internal combustion engines
• Airplane engines
• Metal stamping machines
• And more…

Synthetic oil is a cleaner substitute for conventional crude mineral oil. This means it’s better for your engine. It reduces strain on your engine by using higher quality oils that are:

• More chemically stable
• Less easily oxidized and acidified
• Slower to break down; protective qualities are maintained longer

Traditional oil can provide decent lubrication, but when it comes to providing long-lasting and efficient engine performance, synthetic oil comes out on top. Here are some perks of synthetic oil you’ll never find in its conventional counterpart:

• Resists sludge build-up
• Prevents wear and tear
• Resistant to high and low temperatures
• Highly controlled break-down of oil

Since synthetic oil is made via a careful and complex process (it’s chemically constructed using petrochemicals), it is a process specifically tailored to increase engine life.

Synthetic oil products are constantly modified to keep up with the increased demands of more complicated and powerful engines of each passing era in the automobile industry.

How Often Should You Get a Synthetic Oil Change?

It goes without saying that if synthetic oils are made of different materials than conventional oils, then the intervals in between each oil change will be different too.

But it’s a little more complicated than that. The answer also depends on the make and model of your vehicle. Be sure to keep your owner’s manual handy.

You also can’t rely on past experiences as every car will have different maintenance rules and procedures. This pertains to both synthetic and nonsynthetic oil-based engines.

The old common rule says that you should change your oil every 3 months or every 3,000 miles, but doing so could actually be financially wasteful depending on your car.

Some car manufacturers have extended that interval to 5,000 – 10,000 miles intervals.

Pro Tip – Always trust what your owner’s manual says over what your mechanic says.

Let’s say your mechanic says your car desperately needs an oil change after 3500 miles since your last full synthetic oil change, but your manual says you have at least 3500 more miles to go.

You can place your bets on the longer interval. Some mechanics might try to trick you into paying for services you don’t actually need. So it’s best to stay educated on these matters before getting swindled.

How to Check Your Oil Level

Many cars these days come with an oil monitor, but it also doesn’t hurt to check your oil level with your own pair of eyes. Consider buying a dipstick to measure your oil level.

Be on the lookout for:

• Hot spots under the hood
• Make sure your car is parked on flat land, not an incline
• The color of the oil. (Black or brown is ideal. Milky is not good)

Always be sure to double-check before assuming your engine is ready to go. There’s always the possibility that you might have missed something.

Pro Tip – Before you double-check, wipe your dipstick with an old cloth or some other fabric not needed for other purposes. This will help you better see the results of your second look.

The Dangers of Not Changing Your Synthetic Oil Regularly

Perhaps a more appropriate title for this section would be, “Why You Shouldn’t Destroy Your Vehicle”. Needless to say, the consequences of neglecting to regularly change your engine’s oil are severe.

These consequences include:

• Corrosion: Synthetic oil might last significantly longer than conventional oil, but it can’t last forever. It inhibits the accumulation of corrosive compounds, but it doesn’t eliminate this process. The more compounds, the higher consumption of oil. This can be very costly long-term.
• Wear: Think of this degradative process as arthritis for your car. As the oil falls apart, it can no longer properly lubricate all of the parts in your engine. This accounts for a rickety machine in need of major engine repairs.
• Reduced performance: Be careful. You might not even notice a change in your vehicle’s performance in the beginning. But don’t get too cocky. If you’ve let your vehicle go past its oil change due date for too long, you may be in for a rude awakening. It’s best to be preemptive.

Keep in mind, the intervals for changing your vehicle’s synthetic oil can vary depending upon climate, too. Manufacturers will have different recommendations if you’re located in the Mojave Desert or Alaska.

Always be sure to keep your owner’s manual handy when making these determinations.

Synthetic Oil Change Prices

Although synthetic oil changes might cost more out of pocket than traditional oil changes, you’ll be saving much more long-term. You’ll have a cleaner engine, which means fewer repairs.

And, your car engine will be clean for a longer period of time. This means fewer oil changes per year.

You can expect to pay between $35 to $75 for conventional oil changes.

Synthetic oil change prices, start around $90.

If you’re in the Los Angeles, CA area and you’re wondering, “Where can I get a synthetic oil change near me?” consider giving European Motors a ring. European Motors is a fully stocked distributor performing Liqui Moly oil changes.

Did You Find This Information Useful?

Synthetic oil changes might be more complex than conventional oil changes, but we hope the information provided in this article has proven its extraordinary benefits.

If you’re interested to learn more about a BMW oil change, Mini Cooper oil change, or another European car make, see below for the vehicles serviced at European Motors.

CARS WE SERVICE

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Are you looking for high-quality service to take care of your Volvo and all of its repair needs? Do you find it hard to trust a typical auto shop with the responsibility of your car? If so, then you need to find a certified Volvo mechanic.

Whether you knew it or not, there’s a way to tell when a mechanic has had proper education and training. They have to receive certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence—ASE, for short.

See below for an in-depth guide that explains what an ASE certification is, as well as the benefits of hiring a Volvo mechanic.

What Is ASE Certification?

So what is ASE certification? What role does it play in a mechanic’s experience and expertise? What does it have to do with fixing your vehicle?

As important of a position as being a car mechanic is, you’d be shocked at how many auto shops employ mechanics that lack proper education. They may have 5 to 10 years of experience, but their tenure may involve them going about things the wrong way.

The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence aims to stop this trending phenomenon in the auto industry. It can be used as a badge to distinguish those that have been properly trained. 

If you come across an ASE certified team of mechanics, you know that you’re guaranteed quality and efficiency. They know how to treat your European car with care and give it the tune-ups that it needs.

Better yet, their services often have a quick turnaround time. Realistically, the only other place you could find that level of service is at the Volvo Dealership’s Service Center, where they’ll charge you more than necessary.

Instead, find yourself an auto shop that takes pride in its service by employing a team of ASE certified mechanics.

The Benefits of Hiring a Volvo Mechanic

So what’s the big deal? Why should you take the time to search for and hire the services of a Volvo mechanic? Why is there a specific term for mechanics that work on Volvos? Great questions! See below for several benefits of hiring Volvo technicians.

1. High-Quality Service

Say you go to a fast-food restaurant and order a cheeseburger to eat. After waiting several minutes, they bring you a fish sandwich. Are you going to eat it? Of course not! Why? Because it’s not what you ordered.

The same principle applies to hiring a Volvo Mechanic vs a general auto shop mechanic. 

When you pay to service your Volvo, you expect your car to be taken care of in the way it should, not just treated like any other car. 

The ASE certification training helps mechanics to understand the ins and outs of each car brand. Unlike an uneducated mechanic, ASE-certified mechanics know how to treat your Volvo delicately and how to treat its high-quality parts.

2. Cost-Efficiency

As previously mentioned, the only other place you can find a high level of Volvo service is directly through the dealership’s service center. However, the dealership center will charge you a very high price to perform the same level of work.

Why are dealership service centers so much more expensive? As Edmunds highlights here, they charge more for their specialized training. Since the technicians are trained in Volvo training programs, they can charge a higher fee.

Now that you know you have a better alternative, you need to take advantage of ASE-certified technicians instead. Volvo mechanics outside the dealership can do the same quality of work while charging you less.

3. Customer-First Approach

ASE certified mechanics aren’t just taught the ins and outs of car repair, they are also taught how to treat customers with care.

When you go to a car shop with ASE mechanics, you’re ensuring that you get the best level of customer support. They’ll listen to your concerns, answer all of your questions, and give you feedback/recommendations on what they find.

Here at European Motors, we prioritize communication with our clients. Any time you drop your Volvo off, we’ll be sure to take a comprehensive look and fill you in on its condition. That way, you can have more peace of mind while you drive.

What to Look for in a Volvo Mechanic Shop

So how can you differentiate an auto shop with Volvo mechanics vs a car shop that isn’t worth your time? More importantly, how can you find ASE-level service before you walk in the door?

There are a few things that you can do to find ASE certification:

1. Check the online reviews of the auto shop
2. Ask the shop for references that you can contact about their service
3. Read up on their service and qualifications on their site
4. Call the shop and ask them if they’re ASE certified

Online reviews are a great way to gauge which auto shops clearly offer a superior service to their competition. However, you should always reach out via phone call to talk to the shop before you schedule an appointment. 

Ask them if they have ASE-certified mechanics in their shop. If they beat around the bush, remove them from your list.

Find Volvo Mechanic Near You

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on how to find a Volvo mechanic and determine the best one, it’s time to start your search.

Be sure to read this article for more information on how to get your car road-trip ready before the big vacation!

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.

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Do you find it hard to trust typical car repair shops with your Lexus? Are you looking to hire someone that specializes in luxury vehicles? If so, then you will want to learn more about how to find a trustworthy Lexus mechanic for your needs.

As you might imagine, properly caring for and maintaining a Lexus is a bit different than the average car. For example, it has a world-renowned fuel system that requires more specific attention to thrive.

See below for several tips on how to find a Lexus mechanic that you can depend on for many years to come.

1. Online Reviews and References

If you’re looking for a reputable auto repair shop that can treat your Lexus with love and care, you need to perform a bit of research beforehand. Doing so will ensure that you don’t waste your time and money on services that aren’t worth the investment.

You need a way to take a peek behind the curtain before you drop your Lexus off at the shop. Thankfully, you can use online reviews and references as your guide.

Finding online reviews is simple. You can either search for the business on Google and read through the Google My Business reviews or read through the client testimonials on their website (most shops have this).

Be sure to read the comments that the reviews and testimonials contain. What did the clients enjoy about the shop? Did they mention any specific names? Would they recommend the shop to others? What kind of car do they have? How long have they been going to that auto shop?

If you still need a bit more insight, then ask the auto shop for the contact information of some of their satisfied customers. That way, you can ask them a few questions directly to make sure the auto repair shop is equal to the task.

2. Set a Budget

If you’re looking to get high-end service on your Lexus (as you should), then you should expect to pay a little more for repairs and maintenance. However, that doesn’t mean you should simply pay whatever the shop tells you to.

Start by creating a budget before you reach out to schedule a repair. How much can you comfortably pay towards the Lexus repairs that you need? What would be an unrealistic price?

You can reach out to the auto shop to learn more about the cost of their services. While some will depend on several different factors, they should be able to give you a quote for oil changes and such.

Having a budget will hold you more accountable. If the repair that you need is out of your monthly budget, ask the shop if holding off for another month would damage the car further. If so, then you can adjust it as needed.

Trustworthy Lexus mechanics are happy to accommodate your budget in different ways. In some cases, they can switch out certain brands to lower the price.

3. Build Your Knowledge

It’s always advantageous to grow your knowledge about Lexus and the common maintenance needs that their fleet has. This can help you understand what tasks you should never try to do by yourself and, instead, leave to the auto repair expert.

Such tasks include replacing your car brakes, repairing the full system, trying to fix an overheated engine, or trying to replace the timing belt. 

Lexus cars are built with ingenuity, which means they require a knowledgeable mechanic to carefully fix. By educating yourself, you can assess the issue that you’re having and contact the mechanic right away if the problem persists.

The worst thing you can do is continue to drive the Lexus without getting it fixed.

4. Give It a Test Run

You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it on a test drive, why do any differently for the Lexus mechanic that you’re looking for?

If the auto repair shop’s online reviews are glowingly positive and they seem to be friendly and helpful on the phone, there’s only one thing left to do: give them a shot!

Go into the first appointment with an open mind. What do you like about their service specifically? Do they seem informative? Are they good at explaining what repairs you need and why the repair will cost what it does?

5. Find Great Customer Service

Customer service is everything in the car repair industry. You want someone that you can bring your Lexus vehicle(s) to for a long time to come.

For that reason, you should focus on finding a shop with a great reputation for customer service. We’ve served thousands of customers on Glendale Blvd for 100 years! There aren’t many other auto shops in the LA area that can make that claim.

Find a service that has a customer-first mindset. Someone that answers your questions and takes the time to talk you through different solutions, rather than using a “my way or the highway” attitude.

Contact Us for the Best Lexus Mechanic in Los Angeles

Now that you have seen several key ways to find a trustworthy Lexus mechanic in Los Angeles, be sure to use this advice to your advantage.

Be sure to visit this page to read several customer testimonials about our customer service and why we’re the best in the business.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.

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Your reliable family Volkswagen is in need of some work—do you have a trusty mechanic that you can call?

Finding the right Volkswagen mechanic is a stressful job, as it’s hard to find someone who will be honest and upfront, rather than just focused on profits. Whether you need a simple oil change or complex mechanical repairs, finding the right mechanic is the first step.

The beloved Volkswagen brand has been around since 1937, created as an affordable car for the people. However, their vehicles are decidedly modern now, requiring a specialized mechanic for the best results.

7 Factors to Consider When Hiring a Volkswagen Mechanic

If you’re looking for help fixing a Volkswagen, keep reading to find seven key factors to consider when choosing the right mechanic.

1. Certifications

Look for a mechanic who is certified. This ensures that they are trained in the highest standards of their trade and can offer quality servicing to your car.

The ASE, or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, is the professional certification group for mechanics. Certification with the ASE guarantees that your Volkswagen will be looked after to the highest possible standard.

There are additional peak bodies and groups, and any reputable mechanic would be happy to outline their credentials, if asked.

If a mechanic doesn’t have any qualifications or certifications, would you still trust them with your treasured family car or van?

2. Experience

Experience is one of the biggest things to look for in a mechanic. It takes years to fully understand the trade and to grasp all the complexities of Volkswagens.

With experience, expert mechanics learn how to identify and fix the most common Volkswagen issues. European cars require different workmanship and parts, so look for an expert VW repair shop who specializes in working on Volkswagen vehicles.

This means they work on these cars day in, day out, and you can rest assured that your car is in capable hands.

3. Reliability

You no doubt have plenty of busy days, so if your mechanic says your car will be ready at a certain time, you expect it to be ready so you’re not kept waiting.

Reliability is another key consideration when hiring a mechanic. Look for a mechanic who keeps their word, performs the work in a timely fashion, and keeps you informed if there are any unexpected delays.

They should get the work done as quickly as possible, to the highest possible standard.

4. Competitive Pricing

A quality mechanic doesn’t need to be hard on the checkbook—look for a mechanic that offers fair and competitive pricing.

Your mechanic should also be transparent about their pricing, outline exactly what you’re being charged for parts and labor. Talk to your mechanic if you have any questions about your pricing, and they should take the time to explain and go through everything with you.

Your mechanic should also be able to provide an accurate estimate of the cost before starting work. Comparing mechanic fees and quotes is fine too, as you want to make sure you get the best possible price.

5. Honesty

Sadly, there are plenty of dishonest mechanics out there that give the profession a bad name. Look for a mechanic who is honest and trustworthy.

Of course, this can be hard to tell, but reading references and reviews online from sites like Google and Yelp can help. Word of mouth is also a great way to find a trustworthy mechanic, so ask your neighbors and friends where they get their car serviced.

A genuine, honest mechanic should be happy to answer all of your questions, treating you like a valued customer and not just rushing you in and out.

If anything stands out as a red flag after visiting a mechanic, shop around next time. Ideally, you want to find a mechanic that you can work with for years to come, so that they get to know your car (and you!).

6. Convenience

It’s also a good idea to look for a mechanic that’s in a convenient location. Cars need to visit mechanics regularly for oil changes and other maintenance, so you’ll save yourself time if you can find a mechanic just a short drive from home.

Plus, if you need any emergency repairs on your Volkswagen, you can get it into the mechanic quickly if it’s close to home.

7. Warranties

After your mechanic sets your car up with replacement parts, how long are they good for? Warranties are an important consideration when looking for a new mechanic since you want to ensure the work on your car will last for years to come.

Don’t be afraid to ask your mechanic about the warranties they offer for their products and services. Be sure you understand all of the ins and outs of the warranty so that you know what you can expect after your car has been serviced.

Contact Us for All of your Volkswagen Mechanic Needs

If you’re looking for a local, trustworthy Volkswagen mechanic, European Motors can help. We are a Los Angeles-based mechanic shop, proudly serving the community since 1975.

We are a family business that values long-term relationships with our customers and quality workmanship. Our shop also has the most advanced diagnostics tools available, guaranteeing that your car is in good hands.

If you need help with your Volkswagen, new or old, we can help. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your next appointment—we look forward to hearing from you.

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Many people don’t realize the importance of European car repair services. European cars are a treasure and should be treated as such. That’s why if you’re the proud owner of a luxury European car such as a Mercedes, BMW, Audi, or Porsche, you really should have your car serviced by a specialist. 

Not a conventional mechanic.

To learn more about what makes European cars and their service requirements so different, keep reading…

European Cars Vs American Cars

A car is a car, right?—Wrong!

Not all cars are created equal, and that’s especially true for European cars. The average consumer would argue that European cars are a luxury item compared to their American counterpart. The real difference comes down to each car’s build, style, and quality. 

When talking mechanics, European cars are radically different on a fundamental level. For one thing, American cars are much larger in size than European cars—which is why beyond the classics, there isn’t a huge market for American cars in Europe. The primary reason for this has to do with the more narrow and winding roads throughout Europe.

Secondly, fuel prices in Europe are much higher than they are in America. Therefore it’s less economical to offer big, gas-guzzling SUVs with V8 engines. That’s also why European cars tend to be more compact and have diesel or turbocharged engines.

If you take a closer look, you’ll find that a European car’s components are also fundamentally different. To accommodate the road systems and fuel efficiency, European cars are manufactured with longer gear ratios and much stiffer suspensions. So, when you pop the hood of a European car, a lot of the moving parts may be in familiar places, but they’ll be much different than what you’re used to.

European cars have been the long-standing champions of quality over American cars. Although American car manufacturers are beginning to close the quality gap, it’s easy to recognize that European cars aren’t typically filled with cheap plastic parts. Hence, the price differences. 

Why hiring a European Car specialist matters

Once you understand that European cars are fundamentally different then American cars, it should make sense to have your car serviced or repaired by a European vehicle specialist. This is true even for something as simple as an oil change.

Just as not all cars are created equal, not all mechanics will have the same skillset or tools to get the job done. That’s not to say that your corner gas station mechanic doesn’t know anything about BMWs. However, it takes more than a few tire rotations and tune-ups to stay current with the European car technology on the market today.

In fact, it takes quite a bit of experience and training to get the mechanical repairs right on older European cars as well. And, while we’re being honest, it’s hard enough to find a quality mechanic these days—especially with all the different cars on the market, European or not.     

Here’s what it really comes down to:

Electrical Work

European cars are much more advanced. Especially with features such as park assist, extensive entertainment systems, crash detection, and more, there’s just no alternative to a European car repair specialist.

A conventional mechanic likely won’t be equipped to handle this type of technology, nor will they have the right diagnostic tools for the job. Even if they say they can handle it, without the proper experience or certifications, you’re both taking a gamble and risking the overall safety of your car.  

Car Parts

If your Audi needs new parts, you only want parts made for Audi. European cars are very much known for their high-quality parts, and it will make a difference if those parts are swapped for some cheaper alternative.

It’s also physically impossible to use anything outside of your European car’s brand in some cases. For one, aftermarket parts companies do not make every component in your Jag. These cars are designed with their reputation for quality and safety in mind; therefore, there are no alternative parts available. Additionally, it may be difficult for a conventional mechanic to get a hold of these parts if they don’t specialize in European cars. 

Repair Accuracy

You don’t want your Mercedez-Benz experimented on—you want it serviced by a professional. European car repair services equate to technicians that are familiar with how your car’s systems work. That means they’ll know exactly how to diagnose a problem and how to repair it properly.  

Proper Maintenance Procedures and Tools

Even something as simple as an oil change on your Porsche can damage your vehicle. Only a European car repair shop will have all the correct parts on hand for European car maintenance needs. That includes everything from the correct viscosity and type of oil, to oil filters, spark plugs, and windshield wipers. 

A conventional mechanic would have to special order parts just to change your Porsche’s oil. Not only will that take longer, but they may not even have the right tools for the job.

Not only do European car nuts and bolts go by the metric system, but your mechanic would need to have the latest in technologically supported diagnostic and repair equipment. Specialty shops with experienced and certified technicians must stay up-to-date with their technology and tools to properly service and repair newer European make and models.

Having the Right Certifications

We’re not saying a regular mechanic can’t learn the VW or Fiat’s ins and outs. However, the technicians that specialize in European auto repair typically require an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. That means you’ll be dealing with experienced mechanics who have gone through the necessary hands-on training for your specific vehicle.  

European Car Repair in Los Angeles

Now that you know European car repair and maintenance isn’t something to take lightly, it’s time to find experienced, and ASE certified technicians in your area. 

Our auto repair shop has been servicing the greater Los Angeles area for over 40 years, specializing in European automobiles. All of our technicians are specially trained, and we are proud to employ ASE certified mechanics since 1975. We are part of the iATN diagnostic network as our facility has access to 1.7 million years of automotive experience. Check out our 5 star ratings on the review sites. We also survey our customers directly, and have a 4.8 average rating with over 250 1st party reviews. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer and schedule an appointment.

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Convertibles are iconic and classic vehicles, associated with warm weather and a carefree, luxurious lifestyle. There’s nothing like cruising down the coast with the top down while your favorite tunes are blasting, the wind is blowing through your hair, and the smell of saltwater is all around you.

That is of course if you can get your top down. Every convertible owner can relate to that moment when they flip the top switch only to realize they’re suddenly in need of convertible motor repair.

So what happens next?

Keep reading to learn more about the most common convertible top motor issues, how to troubleshoot them, and where to go when you’re in need of a convertible motor repair specialist. 

Let’s Look Under The Hood with European Motors…

Convertible Top Motor 101 

Whether you drive a VW, BMW, or a Audi convertible, your convertible top motor serves one purpose. That purpose is to help raise or lower your convertible’s top. While that sounds simple enough, there’s a bit of physics involved.

The convertible motor is attached to a pump and is fitted in the trunk of your convertible. The motor drives the pump which is also attached to a hydraulic fluid reservoir at its opposite end. There are also two cylinders mounted to both sides of your convertible. The pump is what pushes the hydraulic fluid to lift the cylinders to move the convertible’s top.  

Convertible motor pumps typically generate pressure between 300 and 450 psi, allowing for the slow and steady release of your convertible top. There are also rubber grommets attached to the pump to secure it as well as provide cushioning to minimize the noise.

So, when the convertible top motor switch is turned on, it begins to power the pump. The pump begins to pressurize the hydraulic fluid, pushing it towards the top and then the bottom of the cylinders. When closing the convertible top, the fluids are pushed in reverse from bottom to top. Once the convertible top is fully closed or open, the hydraulic fluid flows back to the reservoir.    

Of course, when the convertible top motor is damaged, the movement of the top will be affected. For example, the top may become stuck while opening or closing. In some cases, it may not even move at all. Usually, when this happens, it’s time to call a convertible motor repair specialist.

The Most Common Convertible Top Issues

Fortunately, there are only so many things that can go wrong with your convertible top. Unlike your car’s engine or heating and cooling system, there’s only a handful of moving parts to account for. If you’re dealing with convertible top issues, chances are, it’s one of the following:

The Top Is Moving too Slow

There are several reasons why your convertible top is moving like a glacier. Your lift cylinders may be worn out, you could be low on hydraulic fluid, there might be air in the lines, or your convertible top motor could be on its way out. There’s also the possibility that the cables attached to the motor and pump mechanism have become entangled or bound.   

Another culprit is a weak car battery. Of course, if your car battery is the problem, you’ll notice issues in other areas of your car, especially during startup.   

The Top Won’t Raise or Lower

If your convertible top won’t raise or lower, it’s likely because the pump is broken, damaged, or not getting enough power. Pump issues usually crop up if your relay fuse has gone bad, your motor switch has gone bad, or you have a misaligned or broken hinge.  

The Top Won’t Go Down at All

If you can’t get your convertible top to go down, or even move, you may have a burned-out motor. Other causes for this include a bad limit switch, low hydraulic fluid levels, or damaged hinges and linkage arms. 

The Top Gets Stuck 

If your convertible top gets stuck mid-opening or closing, it could have something to do with any of the issues listed above. Additionally, it could be due to a broken or damaged cable or one or both lift cylinders.

The Beck Lid Won’t Open

The beck lid is what covers your convertible top once it’s been put down. Think of it as the storage space for your top. Not every convertible has one, however. 

If your beck lid won’t open to allow the top in or out, it’s likely due to a bad limit switch. The culprit may also be low hydraulic fluid levels, a defective deck lift solenoid, and a broken or damaged pump. 

Convertible Motor Repair: How to Troubleshoot

To round off the most common convertible top issues, here are the most common underlying problems that cause them:

• A bad motor switch
• A broken or damaged pump
• Worn-out lift cylinders
• Blown fuses or a bad relay
• Binding cables and mechanical parts
• Low fluid levels

If you’re looking to troubleshoot your convertible top problems, you likely already know how to locate and check each component. If you’re unfamiliar with your convertible motor setup, you’ll want to head directly to your dealer or specialist to diagnose and repair the problem.

For in-depth troubleshooting of your convertible top motor problems, you’ll want to have a digital multimeter and some lithium grease handy. For basic troubleshooting, here’s what you’ll want to take a look at in order:

1. Fluid levels. Low hydraulic fluid is the number one cause of some significant convertible top issues. Check the level of the fluid and check for leaks due to aged seals.
2. Limit switches. You’ll find limit switches all over your convertible. The one you want to zero in on is the limit switch for the trunk divider. When this switch fails, it’ll stop your convertible top from working completely. Check for corrosion, detachment, and any signs of damage. 
3. Hydraulic pump. It’s more than possible that your pump will fail, eventually. When evaluating the state of your hydraulic pump, you’ll also want to check the fuse and relay first. If they’re fine, then the issue is your pump.
4. Lift cylinders. Lift cylinders wear down over time, especially with excessive use. Assess the state of your lift cylinders and make sure they’re not leaking. If your convertible top moves slow, and your cylinders are worn down or leaking, you’ve found the problem.
5. Rust. Always check for and eliminate any rust you find. When left alone, rust can and will ruin your vehicle.

Topping of your hydraulic fluid and replacing relays and fuses are manageable tasks. The rest is best left up to a convertible motor repair specialist to avoid risking further damages.

Convertible Motor Repair in Los Angeles

Your convertible top motor is probably the most overlooked mechanism in your car. However, it should be given the same care as every other moving part if you want it to continue to work properly.

We’re all for getting the job done yourself. However, not every car is designed for at-home tinkering. This is especially true for European cars such as VW, Audi, BMW, Porsche, and so on.

If you’re in need of convertible motor repair in the Los Angeles area, don’t hesitate to contact us right away. Our auto repair shop has been serving the LA community faithfully for 100 years, and our certified specialists have the skills, experience, and the finesse to provide you with outstanding service.

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Land Rover repair shop proudly serving Los Angeles since 1975. Whether you lease or own stop going to the dealer and save.

• Land Rover check engine light
• Land Rover intake valve cleaning
• Land Rover oil change service
• Land Rover brake repair
• Land Rover suspension replacement
• Land Rover timing chain service
• Land Rover a/c service

Land Rover Check Engine Light

If you have a Land Rover from 1996 to present, it is equipped with a check engine light located in your vehicle’s dashboard. The computer that operates your Landy’s engine monitors data that comes in from various sensors and control modules. When there is an oddity it will register a fault and store a diagnostic code in the computer which triggers the check engine light. The check engine light indicates anything from engine or transmission issues to gas leaks.

Land Rover Intake Valve Cleaning

Landies with a GDI 3.0 or GDI 5.0 have been getting carbon deposits in the intake values. There is a design flaw with Direct Injection engines as the injectors are positioned in the combustion chamber, never passing the valves. Thus your Landie may get carbon build up and need intake valve cleaning with a walnut shell blaster machine.

Land Rover Oil Change Service

We use Liqui Moly Special Tec LR 0W-20 synthetic motor oil, specifically approved for Land Rover. The oil is low viscosity which means it’s a thin motor oil. Thin oils maximize engine performance, reduce consumption and car emissions.

Land Rover Brake Repair

Car brakes are made up of a system including calipers, brake pads, rotors and sensors. When you want to stop you push on the brake pedal which pushes a caliper that squeezes the brake pad into a disc shaped unit called the brake rotor. Brake sensors monitor the wear and tear of the brake pads and will ignite a brake light indicator if your brakes need service. Not all brake pads have a corresponding sensor so be cognisant to any signs that your brakes need repair.

Land Rover Suspension Replacement

The Land Rover suspension keeps your ride smooth and gives you the driver control of the vehicle. If the front or rear shocks wear this can be particularly hazardous when turning or stopping. Vehicle rollover occurs when you lose control due to worn suspension. 

Land Rover Timing Chain Service

If your Land Rover or Range Rover timing chain fails, the engine will stall. If the timing chain is broken, your vehicle will not start and have to be towed to the auto repair shop. Timing chain replacement is a comprehensive job and very time consuming. Replacement includes removal of the timing cover, timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and timing chain guide rails. These are all replaced during Land Rover timing chain service.

Land Rover A/C Service

The Land Rover air conditioning system is made up of several components that work by removing heat created by the vehicle’s engine, in addition to adding cool air to the car’s cabin. Pinpointing which component failed or any leak is completed during an car air conditioning diagnostic.  

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Mini Cooper Oil Change is the sum of:

• Cost for the amount of oil your Mini holds in quarts
• Cost for the oil filter
• Cost for the drain plug washer
• Cost for disposal waste fee for used oil
• Cost for Labor

Total cost ranges between $90 and $115 for the oil service at European Motors on the east side of Los Angeles.

5 reasons to have a Mini Cooper Oil Change at European Motors

1. European Motors in Silverlake uses German made full synthetic Liqui Moly motor oil. This oil is tested and approved by Mini.
2. The car mechanics are specifically familiar with Mini Cooper cars and have ASE certification. No need to search google for Mini Cooper mechanic. 
3. Along with your oil change a free inspection will be completed. 
4. This family business offers reasonable rates.
5. European Motors has been in business since 1975

Should I only have my Mini oil change done at the dealer?

It is not required to have oil changes done at the dealership. In fact, the federal government passed law that denies any car dealerships from denying warranty service because routine maintenance was performed at an independent auto repair shop. Read more about this here, FTC Consumer Information.

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