June 2020 - Turning Wrenches

Tips to Identify MAF Sensor Failure in a Mercedes From Certified Mechanics in Louisville

by turningwpuser | Jun 17, 2020 | Mercedes Repair

Your Mercedes is a stable vehicle that was built to last for a long time. When you bought it you knew that you would own it for many years. During those years you have come to expect that the functionality would last. As your Mercedes ages, there are going to be certain parts that fail and need to be repaired or replaced. One such part is the MAF sensor. Below you will find out more about what the MAF sensor is and what signs of failure to look for.

The Mass Airflow Sensor

In order for your Mercedes to properly operate, the engine needs to have the correct mixture of air and fuel running through it. If there is too much or too little of either part, the engine is going to be compromised.

So, in order for the air portion of the mixture to be correct, it is monitored by the Mass AirFlow (MAF) sensor. The MAF sensor is responsible for calculating the amount of air that is coming into the vehicle and sending this information to your Mercedes’s computer. Based on the readings from the mass airflow sensor, the computer will then make any and all required adjustments to the engine airflow.

The way the MAF sensor is designed is simple. The part consists of 2 wires. One wire is heated and the other is cool. The readings are produced by determining what current is required for keeping the heated wire at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This measurement is what is sent to the computer of your Mercedes.

Signs of MAF Sensor Failure

The first sign to look for and be aware of is lean idling. As stated before, a properly-balanced mixture of air and fuel is required for optimal engine function. If the MAF sensor has failed, then incorrect or no readings will be sent to the computer. This will cause the engine to have too much air in the system. The increased amount of air in the engine will lead to a failed combustion process. So, when you are attempting to start your engine, it may take a couple of tries because the overflow of air in the system is preventing proper and complete combustion.

The second sign that will point to MAF sensor failure is a delay in acceleration. You will notice this occurs whenever you are attempting to reach higher speeds. When you step on the gas pedal, the response may not be immediate. A failure in the MAF sensor can cause this issue because the sensor will disrupt the amount of gasoline that is getting to the engine. So with a lack of gasoline, there will be a delayed response in acceleration.

The third sign that you can use to identify MAF sensor failure is excessive gasoline consumption. When the MAF sensor is not working as it should, the readings the computer is getting is inaccurate. So when this happens, the incorrect amount of air is being pumped into the mixture. This will cause more gasoline to be used in order to make up for the lack of air being used. You will notice this when you are constantly having to fill up your Mercedes’s fuel tank.

One last sign and the most common symptom that will let you know there is a MAF sensor failure, is an illuminated check engine light. Whenever there is an issue with a part in your Mercedes that is controlled by a computer, you will know about it because a service light will illuminate on the dashboard. You can expect this same thing to occur when there is a MAF sensor failure. The check engine light will come on, and you will need to take your Mercedes to a shop to have a diagnostic test run.

Repairing the MAF Sensor

Now that you know the signs that will help you to identify MAF sensor failures, it is time to have that failure fixed. The failure could be caused by faulty wires in the sensor, dust and grime, or general wear and tear. Any and all of these causes should be looked at and identified by a trained and certified technician. You will be able to find just that here at Turning Wrenches in Louisville, KY. We will use the most up-to-date tools and equipment in order to properly diagnose the MAF sensor failure. Once the issue has been identified, we will work with you in forming a repair or replacement plan. You will leave our shop happy and satisfied with the work that was done on your Mercedes.

Best Garage in Louisville for Repairing Digital Dashboard Failure in an Audi

by turningwpuser | Jun 3, 2020 | Audi Repair

Audi has always been known as the brand that pushes the limits of what’s possible, from the mechanical performance of the vehicle itself to the new and innovative technologies incorporated into the driver’s seat. The brand has built itself on testing those limits, creating and implementing their own technologies to push the boundaries of what the public has accepted as normal, standard, or even includable in a modern vehicle.

One of these newer technologies making its debut in recent years is the digital dashboard that is making its way into newer Audi models. Let’s take a look at its functions and signs of failure, so you can make repairs as soon as you suspect an issue.

The Audi Digital Dashboard

Digital dashboards replace the traditional analog display in favor of a higher-tech, far more functional option. In addition to the usual speed, fuel, and temperature gauges, the digital dashboard allows drivers to customize their display to include or preclude music, phone calls, and maps, among a wide variety of other options.

Due to the young age of the technology, as well as the number of electrical and mechanical pieces involved in bringing the digital display to light, occasional issues are to be expected as the design and function improve toward perfection. When such issues occur, it’s especially critical that Audi owners, those on the front lines of this new technology, know what symptoms to look for in their failing dashboard.

Signs of Digital Dashboard Failure

Blown fuses

These are one of the more common mechanical issues to occur with the digital dashboard. While they can be replaced at home by those with proper mechanical know-how, doing so carries the risk of interfering with and potentially damaging other components of your electrical system. If you have a blown fuse, you’ll notice signs such as:

flashing or otherwise glitchy displays
dim or dull screens
partial or complete failure of the display

Blown bulbs

These are not a huge problem in and of themselves, but having a blown bulb behind your digital dashboard can be dangerous if it means you can’t see important information such as your speed or warning lights. Having your bulb replaced quickly is important for your safety as well as the functioning of your Audi.

Pixelation problems

These problems in your digital dashboard are possible, although not common. These will manifest as missing pieces or lines crossing your display. When this occurs, the only recourse is to visit a certified Audi specialist and have the display reset and possibly replaced entirely.

Instrument cluster

It is responsible for controlling the icons the dashboard is able to display. Failure of the instrument cluster is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately, as it makes driving your vehicle dangerous not only for you, but other drivers on the road. Not knowing if you’re cruising along at 50 mph or whipping along at 80 mph not only puts you in danger of crashing but also at risk of an annoying ticket.

Preventing Dashboard Display Issues

Due to the complex nature of the displays themselves, there is no foolproof way to guarantee your display will never fail. However, one thing you can do to make sure your display is at peak performance is to routinely update the display as Audi sends out digital patches and system upgrades.

When you visit your mechanic, request that they do a complete systems check and software update to ensure your Audi is running at its best. While this may not prevent electrical or other issues, it will ensure you’ve done everything you can.

Turning Wrenches of Louisville, KY

Turning Wrenches of Louisville, Kentucky, hires only the best and most qualified ASE-certified mechanics to work on what may be the most important technological and mechanical innovation in your life: your vehicle.

We offer complete and comprehensive services to repair electrical malfunctions and mechanical breakdowns. We utilize only the most up-to-date tools and equipment for every make and model to serve you best.

If you suspect your Audi’s digital dashboard is experiencing the symptoms of failure or mechanical breakdown, bring it in to Turning Wrenches of Louisville today. In addition to getting the best service from our expert mechanics, your Audi will be backed by a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty to ensure your display is working perfectly while you ride safe and easy.