Sacramento Auto Repair

When you hear the word "spark," especially at this time of year, you might think of children holding wands with a little snap, crackle, and pop at the end. This month at Mike and Sons Automotive in Sacramento, CA, we are talking about something similar: the spark that causes combustion in an internal combustion engine. There are different types of spark plugs available. The type of spark plug your vehicle uses will depend on the type of fuel your vehicle uses. Most automobile engines are 4-stroke engines. The first stroke brings air and fuel into the cylinder, the second stroke compresses the air/fuel mix, the third stroke (the power stroke) is the combustion stroke where a spark ignites the compressed air/fuel mix, and the fourth stroke is the exhaust stroke. This process happens thousands of times every time you drive your vehicle. It is the third stroke of this process, the power stroke, where a vehicle’s spark plugs come into play. Without any spark, combustion wil ... read more

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, batteries and charging systems play a pivotal role. As vehicles become more advanced and electrification gains momentum, understanding these components becomes increasingly important for both drivers and mechanics.    Batteries: Automobile batteries serve as the heart of a vehicle's electrical system, providing the necessary power to start the engine and operate various electrical components. They store chemical energy and convert it into electrical energy when needed. The most common type of automotive battery is the lead-acid battery, which consists of lead plates immersed in a sulfuric acid solution.    Other types of batteries include Lithium-Ion Batteries Lithium-ion batteries have gained prominence with EVs (Electric Vehicles) due to their high energy density and lighter weight. These batteries offer longer life cycles and faster charging times compared to lead-acid batteries.&n ... read more

Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of driving, offering a cleaner, more efficient way to get around. Our certified technicians at Mike and Sons Automotive in Sacramento, CA are here to make sure your eco-friendly ride stays in top shape with easy, professional care. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your vehicle running smoothly.  Simple Tips for Hybrid and EV Care Make sure you stay on top of the health of your vehicle’s battery. Just like your smartphone needs a good charge, so does your car. We'll check your battery to keep it holding a charge and powering your rides efficiently. Make sure your vehicle’s cooling system is functioning correctly. Your car's battery and electric parts don't like getting too hot. We ensure the cooling system is working correctly, so everything stays at the right temperature. Make sure your vehicle’s brakes are checked regularly. Hy ... read more

Ensuring a clear view of the road is a must for safe driving. Let's go through some of the essential do's and don'ts for windshield washer fluid and wiper blade maintenance.   Do: Choose the Correct Windshield Washer Fluid   Select a fluid that is applicable to your climate—winter formulas for cold weather, and summer formulas for warmer regions.   Don't: Use Plain Water   Avoid using plain water, as it does NOT have the cleaning additives needed to remove debris. Water can also freeze in colder temperatures, hindering your washer fluid system from performing as designed.   Do: Regularly Check and Refill   Frequently check and top off your windshield washer fluid to avoid running out, especially when it is most needed. Keep an extra bottle in your trunk for emergencies.  Don't: Ignore Warning Signs   Address streaks, sm ... read more

What are the different types of Headlights? Seeing where you are going is important for your safety.  When it is time to replace your headlights you want to make sure you get the right replacement headlights.    If you are looking for brighter lights or trying to be more energy efficient, there are different choices to meet requirements. The three main types of headlights are: LED, HID or ‘xenon’, and halogen. Halogen headlights Halogen headlights have been the standard for many years and are still the most common headlight in use today. They are affordable, last a long time, and are easy to replace. However, they are not as energy efficient as LED and HID headlights and tend to generate excess heat. LED headlights Light emitting diode (LED) headlights are relatively new to the scene.  Unlike Halogen and HID lights, LED lights generate almost no heat and their low energy requirements help preserve your  ... read more