Arlington Auto Repair

If you’ve ever noticed a loud humming or whistling sound while driving—especially at highway speeds—it might not be your tires or engine. It could be your roof rack. While roof racks are great for hauling gear, bikes, or cargo boxes, they can also be the source of unexpected wind noise that quickly becomes annoying. So yes, roof racks can absolutely create extra wind noise. But why does it happen, and what can you do to reduce it without giving up the convenience? Why Roof Racks Create Wind Noise When air flows over your car, it usually moves smoothly across the roof. Adding a roof rack interrupts that flow. The crossbars, mounting brackets, and cargo carriers stick up into the airstream and create turbulence—similar to how blowing across a bottle’s opening creates a whistle. The speed of the vehicle, the shape of the rack, and even the spacing between crossbars can all affect how much noise is produced. On some vehicles, especially th ... read more

Hearing a whining noise when you accelerate can be frustrating, and in some cases, it’s a sign of a developing problem under the hood. While some sounds are harmless, others can point to issues with your belts, transmission, power steering system, or even your engine. The tricky part is determining whether the noise is just an annoyance or an early warning of a more serious mechanical failure. Ignoring it could lead to bigger, costlier repairs down the road. Knowing the possible causes and when to seek professional attention can help keep your car performing at its best. Common Causes of Whining Noises A whining noise can come from various parts of your car, depending on the pitch, volume, and when it occurs. Some issues are simple fixes, while others require professional attention to prevent costly repairs. 1. Worn or Loose Serpentine Belt The serpentine belt powers essential engine components like the alternator, power steering pump, and air ... read more

Most drivers pay close attention to oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks, but what about the cabin air filter? This small component plays a major role in the quality of air inside your car. Over time, it collects dust, pollen, and other contaminants, ensuring that you breathe cleaner air while driving. But like any filter, it doesn’t last forever. So, how often should you replace your car’s cabin air filter, and what happens if you don’t? What Does the Cabin Air Filter Do The cabin air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters your vehicle’s interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Its primary job is to trap airborne particles such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and even exhaust fumes before they circulate inside your car. A clean filter improves air quality, reduces allergens, and even helps maintain the efficiency of your HVAC system. However, when the filter becomes clogged with d ... read more

Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. However, even the most high-end vehicles aren’t immune to issues over time. Whether you’re a proud Mercedes owner or are considering purchasing one, understanding potential problems can save you time and frustration down the road. 1. Electrical System Failures Modern Mercedes vehicles are packed with advanced electronic features, from infotainment systems to safety tech. Unfortunately, these complex systems can sometimes be prone to malfunctions. Drivers may encounter issues like dimming or flickering dashboard lights, faulty power windows, or a malfunctioning central command unit. Often, the root cause is a failing battery, worn-out fuses, or faulty wiring. Regular inspections can catch electrical problems early before they spiral into costly repairs. 2. Transmission Troubles Mercedes-Benz vehicles, especially those equipped with automatic transmissions ... read more

Your car’s timing belt is certainly one of the most important parts of your car's engine. This often-overlooked component is keeping your engine’s valves and pistons moving in perfect sync. Neglecting it can lead to serious and costly problems. So, why should you replace your timing belt, and what happens if you don’t? What Does the Timing Belt Do The timing belt acts as a synchronizer, ensuring your engine’s camshaft and crankshaft turn at the right speeds. This coordination allows the engine’s valves to open and close at just the right moments during the combustion process. If the timing is off, even by a fraction, the engine’s performance can suffer—or worse, the internal components can collide, leading to catastrophic damage. In some engines, timing belts also power other components, like the water pump. This dual role means that a failing belt doesn’t just affect your engine’s timing. It can also impact ... read more