Ask A Tech - Questions and Answers

Here are some questions we’ve received so far.

Q: The fuel gauge keeps going up and down while driving, so I don't know how much gas is in the car. Why is this happening?

A: This condition may be the result of the corrosive effect on the contact surfaces of the fuel tank sender, causing erratic fuel gauge readings. Typically the gas tank needs to be removed and the sending unit attached to the fuel pump needs replacement. Or, it could be that you have a problem with the float inside your gas tank that measures the level of gasoline inside the tank. In order to repair or replace this part, your fuel tank would need to be emptied and then taken down. It’s probably best to have a professional look at the vehicle so that he can correctly diagnose the problem and take the correct steps to fix it.

Q: Why do some repair shops say they cannot give estimates over the phone? What's a decent diagnostic fee?

A:  Quotes are difficult to give over the phone, being that you have not seen the full scope of the vehicle. Average price for diagnostics is $75-$90. At Butitta Brothers, we’ll always give you a complete estimate and answer any questions – all for free - before we start work. We’ve found that it’s always better to inspect the vehicle in question first-hand than making educated guesses over the phone.

Q: Why does my check engine light keep coming on? Another shop reset it, but never found a problem. Now it’s on again and I don’t know what that means.

A:  In order to determine why the check engine light continues to come on we would need the vehicle to be brought to one of our locations for us to connect to our scan tool that will read the vehicles trouble codes that are stored in the vehicles computer.  Once we get the trouble code we will be able to determine what area of the vehicles mechanical system is malfunctioning and will be able to proceed with the necessary repair.