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If you own a GMC truck or SUV, keeping up with your oil change schedule is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your investment. If you're driving a Sierra 1500 through the suburbs or hauling gear in a Yukon, routine oil changes keep your engine running cleanly and efficiently. For drivers in Barrington, IL, staying on top of oil changes can make a real difference in the long-term health of your vehicle. more Read the rest of this entry Why Regular Oil Changes Matter for Your GMC Your engine oil does more than just lubricate moving parts. It helps reduce heat buildup, prevents corrosion, and keeps contaminants from accumulating inside the engine. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective. Skipping or delaying your oil change allows old, degraded oil to circulate through the engine, which can lead to increased wear and, eventually, costly repairs. Routine oil changes for a GMC are a small investment that pays off in a big way. Staying consistent with your service intervals helps protect your engine's longevity and maintains the kind of performance GMC builds into every vehicle. How Often Should You Change the Oil in a GMC? The answer depends on a few factors, including the model you drive, the type of oil your vehicle requires, and your typical driving habits. Many newer GMC vehicles are equipped with an Oil Life Monitoring system, which tracks driving conditions and engine load to let you know when it's actually time for a change — rather than relying on a fixed mileage interval alone. As a general guideline, vehicles using full synthetic oil often go longer between oil changes compared to those using conventional oil. Your owner's manual is the best source for the manufacturer's recommended interval for your specific model and engine configuration. Conventional vs. Synthetic Oil: Which Does Your GMC Need? Not all engine oil is created equal and using the right type is important. Many newer GMC models — including the Sierra 1500, Sierra HD, and Yukon — recommend full synthetic motor oil to help deliver optimal protection across a wide range of temperatures and driving conditions. Conventional oil may be specified for some older or base-trim models, while a synthetic blend can be a middle-ground option in certain cases. When in doubt, refer to your owner's manual or consult with a certified service technician who is familiar with your vehicle's requirements. Using the correct oil viscosity and specification ensures your engine stays properly protected between routine oil changes for your GMC. What to Expect During a Professional Oil Change Service When you bring your GMC in for an oil change, the process typically involves draining the old engine oil, replacing the oil filter, and refilling the engine with fresh oil that meets your vehicle's specifications. A technician will usually inspect the oil drain plug and filter housing for any signs of leakage as well. Many service visits also include a multi-point inspection, which can flag other items that may need attention — things like tire pressure, fluid levels, or brake condition. This is a convenient way to stay ahead of potential issues while you're already in for your oil change service. Signs It Might Be Time for an Oil Change Your GMC's Oil Life Monitoring system will alert you when a service is due, but there are other signs worth paying attention to between reminders. Dark or gritty-looking oil on the dipstick, a slight burning smell coming from the engine bay, or a louder-than-usual engine note can all indicate that your oil is past due for a change. If you notice the oil pressure warning light on your dashboard, don’t ignore it, have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. Routine oil changes for a GMC help prevent these warning signs from becoming serious problems in the first place. Schedule Your GMC Oil Change at Marquardt of Barrington A routine oil change is one of the best things you can do for your GMC. It protects the engine and helps maintain performance. Don't wait for a warning light to remind you — staying proactive with your oil change schedule is the smartest approach for any GMC owner. Visit Marquardt of Barrington to get started or schedule your next service appointment online at marquardtgmc.com.

If you drive a GMC Sierra, Yukon, Terrain, or any other vehicle from the lineup, brake repair is one of the most important services you'll ever schedule. Brakes are your first line of defense on the road and keeping them in top shape isn't just about performance — it's about safety. Understanding when and why you need brake service can save you time, money, and stress. more Read the rest of this entry Why Brake Repair is Important for Your GMC Your GMC is built to handle demanding conditions, which means its brakes work hard every day. Over time, brake pads wear down, rotors can warp, and brake fluid can absorb moisture — all of which reduce stopping power. Ignoring these signs doesn't just put wear on your vehicle; it puts you and your passengers at risk. Routine brake service for a GMC is the best way to stay ahead of costly repairs. Catching worn pads early, for example, prevents damage to rotors that would otherwise need replacement. A proactive approach to brake repair keeps your maintenance costs manageable, and your GMC performing the way it was designed to. Common Signs You Need Brake Repair You don't always need to be a mechanic to know something is off with your brakes. Here are some of the most common warning signs GMC drivers should watch for: A high-pitched squealing or grinding noise when you apply the brakes is often the clearest signal that brake repair is needed. That sound usually means your brake pads have worn thin and metal is making contact where it shouldn't be. Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal can mean warped rotors. If your steering wheel shudders when you slow down, that's another sign your brake components need attention. Similarly, if your vehicle pulls to one side during braking, uneven pad wear or a stuck caliper may be the culprit. Routine brake service for a GMC should also include a check of the brake fluid. If the fluid looks dark or has absorbed too much moisture, it can affect hydraulic pressure and reduce braking efficiency. Drivers who put a lot of miles on their GMC throughout the year should have brake fluid inspected regularly. What Routine Brake Service Includes Brake repair isn't always a major overhaul. Routine brake service for a GMC typically covers several key areas that keep the entire system functioning properly. A thorough brake inspection looks at pad thickness, rotor condition, caliper function, and fluid levels. From there, a technician will recommend the appropriate service — whether that's a simple pad replacement, a rotor resurfacing or replacement, or a brake fluid flush. Brake hardware, including springs and clips, is also checked during a full brake service. These small components play a big role in how evenly your pads wear and how smoothly your calipers operate. Skipping this step can lead to premature wear down the road. How Often Should You Schedule Brake Service? There's no single answer that works for every driver because brake wear depends on driving habits, vehicle weight, and road conditions. That said, most technicians recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. If you drive a heavier GMC like the Sierra HD or Yukon XL, your brakes handle more stress with every stop, so more frequent inspections make sense. Drivers who frequently are in stop-and-go traffic or tow trailers should also check in on brake health more often. Brake repair doesn't have to be reactive. Building a regular brake inspection into your maintenance routine is the simplest way to extend the life of your braking system and avoid surprise repairs. Visit Marquardt of Barrington for GMC Brake Service When it comes to brake repair, trust matters. The certified service team at Marquardt of Barrington is trained specifically on GMC vehicles and uses the right parts and procedures to keep your brakes performing at their best. Drivers throughout Barrington, IL, can count on experienced technicians who understand GMC trucks and SUVs from the ground up. Whether you're due for a routine brake inspection or you've noticed something that doesn't feel quite right, scheduling service sooner rather than later is always the right call. If your brakes are due for an inspection, the team at Marquardt of Barrington is ready to help — visit us online at marquardtgmc.com to schedule your service appointment today.

Proper maintenance of a vehicle braking system is required for the safety of the driver, and Marquardt of Barrington in Barrington, IL, provides these services. A functional brake system allows for controlled stopping in different road conditions. Customers should contact the service department at Marquardt of Barrington to schedule a brake inspection for their vehicle. more Read the rest of this entry Why Brake Repair is Necessary Brake repair is one of the most important services for maintaining vehicle safety. Components such as pads, rotors, and calipers experience wear during normal use. If these parts are not replaced, the vehicle will have less stopping power and longer braking distances. Drivers in Barrington, IL, should have their brakes inspected to ensure they function correctly throughout the year. Signs of Brake Wear Several signs indicate that a vehicle needs brake repair. These signs include squealing or grinding noises when the driver applies the brakes. A soft brake pedal or vibrations in the steering wheel also suggest that the system needs service. Warning lights on the dashboard signify that it is time to visit Marquardt of Barrington for a professional inspection. Service for GMC Vehicles The technicians at Marquardt of Barrington perform repairs on the GMC lineup. This includes trucks like the Sierra 1500 and the Sierra HD. SUVs like the Yukon and the Acadia also receive service at this location. Staff members use diagnostic tools and approved parts to ensure every repair meets the standards of the manufacturer. Maintenance for Specific Models Routine maintenance helps the braking system last for a longer period. Service tasks include checking fluid levels and replacing pads or rotors as they wear out. Owners should follow the service schedule recommended by the manufacturer for their specific model. Marquardt of Barrington in Barrington, IL, helps customers maintain their vehicle stopping systems. Regular service ensures the vehicle remains reliable and ready for use on the road.

Maintaining the performance of a GMC vehicle starts with 1 regular oil change. For drivers at Marquardt of Barrington in Barrington, IL, this routine maintenance ensures the engine runs correctly. Staying current on this service helps a vehicle remain reliable for many years. Fresh oil is a primary requirement for the long-term health of an engine. more Read the rest of this entry The Role of Oil in Your GMC Engine Oil acts as a lubricant for the engine of a GMC. It ensures that moving parts do not create too much friction or wear. Over time, engine oil loses its ability to protect the engine from heat. Regular oil changes help maintain lubrication and keep the engine clean. If a person drives a GMC Sierra with a 5.3 L V8 or a GMC Acadia with a 2.5 L 4-cylinder, fresh oil is necessary for efficiency. GMC Sierra Features and Trims The GMC Sierra 1500 is available in several trims, including the Pro, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. A common engine option is the 5.3 L V8 engine, which delivers 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims often come with 22" wheels and a 13.4" diagonal touch screen display. Regular oil changes are necessary to keep these components working properly. Benefits of Regular Oil Changes for GMC Vehicles Scheduling consistent oil changes offers 4 primary benefits for a GMC. Clean oil allows the engine to operate at a high level of efficiency. This helps the vehicle deliver the power that a driver expects. Fresh oil also helps a GMC achieve better fuel economy because the engine does not have to work as hard. Routine oil changes prevent the buildup of deposits, which can extend the life of the vehicle. Many GMC warranties require this maintenance to remain valid. How Often Should You Get an Oil Change? The frequency of oil changes depends on the vehicle model and driving habits. Modern GMC vehicles often have an Oil Life Monitoring System that provides an alert when service is needed. Synthetic oil usually lasts longer than conventional oil. This allows for more time between service appointments. Owners should check the manual or talk to a technician at Marquardt of Barrington for specific details. Trust Marquardt of Barrington for Your Oil Change Needs When a driver needs an oil change in Barrington, IL, Marquardt of Barrington provides service for GMC vehicles. Certified technicians use approved oils and filters to ensure the engine is protected. The staff also performs a multi-point inspection to find potential issues. This helps avoid expensive repairs in the future. Conclusion Regular oil changes are a necessary part of vehicle ownership. For drivers in Barrington, IL, this maintenance protects the engine and helps the vehicle last longer. Marquardt of Barrington in Barrington, IL offers expert care to keep your GMC in good condition. Contact Marquardt of Barrington today to schedule your next service appointment.

You demand absolute perfection from your machine and nothing less will suffice. When you tear down the streets in your GMC, the only thing separating a glorious drive from total disaster is the raw stopping power beneath your feet. Residents of Barrington, IL know that Marquardt GMC is the ultimate destination for preserving that ferocious capability. Your brakes are the unsung heroes fighting a constant war against physics and velocity. Neglecting them is an act of sheer madness that gambles with your very existence on the asphalt. Regular service is not just maintenance because it is a sacred ritual that guarantees your survival and ensures your beastly vehicle dominates the road for years. more Signs You Need Brake Service Listen to the screams of your vehicle begging for mercy. It is critical to recognize the terrifying signals that indicate your GMC is on the brink of failure. If you hear a grinding noise that pierces your soul when you press the pedal, your car is crying out for help. A spongy pedal that feels like stepping into a void or a steering wheel that shakes with the fury of a thousand storms means you are in immediate danger. Ignoring these red alerts is a financial catastrophe waiting to strike. Bring your machine to Marquardt GMC in Barrington, IL where our technicians attack problems with surgical precision. The Benefits of Professional Brake Service at Marquardt GMC Do not insult your vehicle with subpar treatment. Choosing professional brake service at Marquardt GMC means entrusting your ride to masters who bleed automotive excellence. We utilize OEM-approved parts that are forged for destiny and we execute service protocols with the strict discipline of a military operation. We do not just swap pads because we dissect the entire system to ensure every caliper and fluid line operates at peak potential. Regular maintenance at our Barrington, IL service center prevents tiny imperfections from mutating into nightmares that destroy your wallet. Maintaining Your GMC’s Performance and Safety Your GMC is a titan of engineering designed to conquer the world. It does not matter if it is a Sierra, Terrain, or Acadia because poor maintenance will cripple even these giants. You must feed the beast with proper care to maintain the professional-grade dominance you crave. Drivers in Barrington, IL face a chaotic mix of urban gridlock and suburban sprawl that demands nothing short of braking perfection. Schedule Your Brake Service Today Seize the opportunity for superior safety and stop waiting for disaster to strike. Contact Marquardt GMC in Barrington, IL immediately to unleash the full potential of your braking system and let our experienced technicians provide the expert care your vehicle demands. Conclusion Refusing to compromise on safety is the hallmark of a true driving enthusiast. Your GMC deserves to be worshipped with the finest care available to mankind. Residents of Barrington, IL must flock to Marquardt GMC to experience the pinnacle of automotive service. Secure your appointment now to drive with the fierce confidence that your brakes are ready for anything.

Your vehicle's battery is the violent electric soul of your machine and acts as the pulsating heart of the electrical system. You rely on this raw power to ignite your engine and fuel essential functions like blinding lights, climate control, and complex infotainment systems because a failure here is not an option. Routine battery service at Marquardt of Barrington ensures these systems operate with ferocious consistency in Barrington, IL. A neglected battery is a ticking time bomb that leads to catastrophic breakdowns, reduced performance, and soul-crushing repairs. You must prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to destroy the risk of failure and ensure your vehicle remains an unstoppable force of reliability. more Benefits of Routine Battery Service Staying on top of battery service provides massive advantages for drivers who demand perfection: Unstoppable Reliability: A maintained battery guarantees your vehicle roars to life without hesitation even on the coldest Illinois mornings. Maximum Battery Life: Relentless checks identify potential issues early and help you squeeze every ounce of life out of your battery. Peak Performance: A healthy battery ensures optimal performance of your car's electrical components and enhances your overall driving comfort. Battery service involves scrubbing terminals, verifying voltage levels, and guaranteeing connections are ironclad. These simple yet vital steps can save you from the agony of unexpected hassles on the road. Signs You Might Need Battery Service While routine maintenance is essential you must recognize the terrifying signs that you might need immediate battery service: Sluggish Engine Crank: If your engine takes longer than usual to start it might be time for a battery check before silence takes over. Dashboard Warning Light: Modern vehicles often alert you to critical issues with the battery or charging system. Corrosion on Terminals: Visible corrosion is a disease that can hinder the battery's ability to function effectively. Frequent Jump Starts: Needing frequent jump starts is a humiliating indicator of a failing battery. If you notice any of these symptoms do not wait, schedule a battery service immediately to prevent further destruction. Battery Care Tips for Barrington, IL Drivers To ensure your battery stays in fighting condition follow these commands: Regular Inspections: Demand your battery be checked during routine service appointments. Clean Terminals: Keep the battery terminals spotless and free from corrosion or debris. Drive Regularly: Short trips can strain your battery while longer drives allow it to recharge properly. Avoid Extreme Conditions: Whenever possible park your vehicle in a garage or shaded area to protect it from temperature chaos. Marquardt of Barrington offers battery service tailored to the specific needs of local drivers. You might face harsh winters or scorching summers but our expert technicians help keep your vehicle performing at its absolute best. Conclusion In Barrington, IL, reliable battery service is crucial to the health of your vehicle and your peace of mind. You must stay proactive with maintenance and address issues promptly to avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your battery. For expert battery service trust the professionals at Marquardt of Barrington. Visit us today to schedule your appointment and keep your car running smoothly

When you need a repair, you always have the choice between your dealer and a local repair shop. As your GMC dealership, we want to tell you some of the most important service benefits you receive by choosing us for your repair. more Expert Knowledge Our technicians are experts at GMC servicing and repairs. Once they complete their training as mechanics, they get advanced training at a GMC factory to learn everything there is to know about all the systems and components in every GMC model. Once their training is complete, they focus on maintaining GMC vehicles. This training and experience allow them to work faster and more efficiently than any other mechanics. If you go to a local mechanic, they can't provide the same care and attention. Regular mechanics don't have the same specialized training in GMC models, and their practical experience is also more limited as they work on many different vehicle makes and models. This lack of experience, unfortunately, can result in a less-than-perfect repair. Specialized Equipment Your GMC contains many highly sophisticated systems, like the computer and its large network of sensors. These systems require specialized equipment to service, repair, reprogram, or recalibrate them. As your dealer, we have the latest cutting-edge equipment and software from GMC, which is designed for these systems and ensures we can provide the highest standard of repair. A local mechanic doesn't have the same equipment and technology. Their systems and tools are generic, as they don't focus exclusively on GMC vehicles. Lack of the right equipment can compromise a repair and potentially cause additional problems in the future. Warranty Warranties are essential as they give you peace of mind that if something does go wrong, the issue will be fixed. All the parts we use are GMC-approved and carry warranties that they work efficiently for at least a set time period. We also provide a warranty on our labor due to our technician's high standards and the tools and equipment we use. In the very unlikely event of any issue, it can be corrected by any GMC dealer in the US at no charge. Local mechanics use aftermarket parts in their repairs, as these parts are cheaper and easier for them to get. Aftermarket parts don't carry warranties, as they're not specifically designed or tested on your GMC. If a part fails, you have to pay for its replacement. They may give you a labor warranty, but if something goes wrong, you must return to the same mechanic to fix it. These are some of the many reasons to choose your dealership for the perfect repair. Contact our service department at Marquardt of Barrington in Barrington, IL.

If the usual clean, confident rumble of your GMC's engine isn't so smooth one day, your spark plugs could be misfiring. If you don't promptly visit your local GMC dealership for new spark plugs, the misfiring will lead to further problems. Look out for these symptoms of bad plugs. more Sluggish Acceleration A misfire is when a fouled or failing spark plug misses a beat and doesn't ignite the fuel-air mixture when it's supposed to. In that moment, the engine loses a fraction of its ordinary power. The worse the misfiring gets, the weaker your engine and acceleration will become. Coughing, Shaking Engine Spark plugs can misfire for many different reasons. The spark might be weakened by a faulty ignition coil or battery. A clogged air filter or catalytic converter could be restricting the airflow, throwing off the fuel-air mixture, and leading to sooty residue on the spark plugs. Most commonly, a misfiring spark plug is simply worn out. Whatever the reason, misfiring will cause your engine to cough and sputter, showing clear signs of struggle, and your truck or SUV will shudder and vibrate. Rough Idling and Stalls Weakening spark plugs cause misfires more when the engine is strained. This happens at higher speeds, when towing or hauling heavy loads, and also when idling. With bad plugs, your engine will roughen and vibrate more when you pause at stop lights or in traffic. Your truck or SUV might also suddenly stall. Slower Engine Starts Even with a good starter, reliable engine starts require healthy spark plugs as well. If any of your plugs are weakened by carbon deposits or age, the engine may become hesitant to turn over in the morning. Falling Fuel Efficiency Cylinders with misfiring spark plugs are no longer burning fuel as effectively. This means a portion of the fuel is wasted, reducing your vehicle's overall gas mileage, and you'll notice your fuel gauge declining more rapidly than usual. Black Smoke Behind You As bad spark plugs fail to ignite all the fuel, the unburned gas collects inside the combustion chambers. This fouls the spark plugs, worsening the problem. The excess fuel may also escape into the exhaust pipes, wherein it can partially ignite, turning to smoke that pours out of the tailpipe. Have Your Spark Plugs Checked at Your GMC Dealership If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, have your spark plugs inspected immediately. It's best to have your engine tuned and your spark plugs checked at least once a year. This allows us to identify problems early on and replace worn-out plugs before they cause harm to the vehicle's engine or catalytic converter. Visit Marquardt of Barrington GMC in Barrington, IL, today to have your spark plugs cleaned or replaced. We've been keeping the engines of our customers' trucks and SUVs running smoothly and powerfully for over 75 years.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your GMC running at its best. As your trusted GMC dealership, we want to make sure you're aware of the signs that indicate it’s time for vehicle maintenance. Here are three important signs that your GMC may need attention: more 1. Gas Smell You should never smell gasoline around your GMC, except briefly right after filling up at the gas station. The fuel system is designed to be sealed, preventing the escape of vapors that could reduce engine performance or cause safety hazards. If you notice a strong fuel odor, it's important to bring your vehicle to our service department immediately. This could be a sign of an issue with the fuel cap, the exhaust manifold, or even a rich-running engine. A fuel smell might also indicate a potential fuel vapor leak, which could affect vehicle performance and safety. Our service experts will identify the source and take care of the issue, making sure that the smell disappears and your vehicle runs efficiently. 2. Check Engine Light Your GMC is equipped with a range of sensors that monitor essential components, sending signals to the vehicle’s computer. If there’s a problem with any of these parts, the system will trigger an error code, and the check engine light will come on to alert you. This could be something minor, like a loose gas cap, or something more serious, like an engine misfire or transmission issue. A flashing check engine light usually signals a more urgent problem, such as engine misfiring, while a steady light typically indicates a less severe issue but still requires attention. Either way, our technicians will thoroughly inspect and diagnose the problem to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly again. 3. Rattling Noises If you hear strange rattling noises coming from underneath your GMC, it could be a sign that something is loose. One common cause of these sounds is a broken exhaust hanger, which holds the exhaust system in place. Over time, rust or wear can cause these hangers to break, allowing the exhaust to move and create a rattling noise as it bangs against the underside of your vehicle. Another culprit could be a damaged catalytic converter, which helps reduce harmful emissions by converting engine gases into less harmful substances. If the converter is damaged, it can overheat, causing internal cracks in its honeycomb structure. This leads to rattling sounds inside the converter that can only be fixed by replacing the unit. If you’re hearing rattling noises or suspect any other issue, contact us at Marquardt of Barrington GMC. Our skilled technicians will ensure your GMC receives the attention it needs to keep running like new. Need Maintenance? Visit Marquardt of Barrington GMC If you've noticed any of these signs, it's time to schedule an appointment with our expert team. At Marquardt of Barrington GMC, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch service to keep your vehicle performing at its best. Whether it’s a simple check-up or a more complex repair, we’re here to help you get back on the road safely and efficiently. Visit us today!

Certain parts of your car wear down over time, including the brake pads. When those get too thin, you'll start experiencing problems with braking, so it's important to get new brake pads as soon as your car shows you that you need them. You can get replacement brake pads and all other forms of brake service at your local GMC dealership. more 1. Your Brakes Get Screechy You shouldn't hear anything when you brake normally, but you will if your vehicle has exposed brake pad wear indicators. These indicators are built into the brake pads to tell you when it's time to replace them. The indicators are made of metal, so when they press against your rotor, you'll hear a metallic screeching or squealing sound. 2. Your Brake Pedal Vibrates Braking should only cause vibrations if your ABS brakes engage. Under normal circumstances, the pedal should never vibrate or pulsate. If it does, then it probably means your rotors are damaged. This can be caused by brake pads that have worn down too much, so there's metal-on-metal contact happening, damaging your rotors in the process. 3. Your Brakes Start Grinding We've mentioned that there's often a wear indicator built into your brake pads. This will continue to cause the screeching noise we discussed until you get new pads. However, if you don't get new pads, then the sound could get worse and sound more like a growling or grinding. This typically means the brake pad has completely worn away, and now your calipers are in contact with the discs. 4.  Your Brake Pads Are Visibly Thin Giving your car a once-over every few weeks may help you catch issues before your car starts having problems. One thing you might notice is thin brake pads. The pads should be at least one quarter of an inch thick, though thicker is better. You'll be able to see the brake pads by looking through the spokes of your wheels. Get your brakes inspected if the pads are looking a little thin. 5. Your Brake Pad Light Comes On Many GMC vehicles have a light that turns on specifically when the brake pads need to be replaced. This differs from the check engine light or ABS light you may be familiar with. The only thing it tells you is that the brake pads need to be replaced. Once you get new pads, you'll need to reset the Brake Pad Life Monitor through your vehicle's cluster display. Do you need your brake pads replaced or another form of service for your car? Come get it all done at Marquardt of Barrington GMC in Barrington, IL.

Your car's ignition coil is a vital piece of your engine, working to convert your battery's power into the voltage needed to create an electric spark. When it isn't working properly, it can affect your car's performance. Here are some signs you need to get it checked out at the GMC dealer. more 1. Engine Misfires One of the most common signs that something is wrong with your ignition is engine misfiring. This can feel like a stutter or hesitation when you attempt to accelerate or an overall rough and irregular engine rhythm when idling. Misfires happen when there isn't enough voltage going to the spark plugs to ignite the air/fuel mixture properly. 2. Sudden Loss of Power Does your car feel weaker than usual? If you have a faulty coil, your vehicle can feel like it's struggling to maintain power, especially when accelerating. This may be particularly obvious under heavy loads or while climbing hills. 3. Poor Fuel Economy Poor performance from your ignition can cause your vehicle's fuel efficiency to decrease noticeably. This is because the incomplete combustion caused by faulty coils requires your engine to burn more fuel to produce the same amount of power. Keep an eye on your fuel consumption. If you're making more trips to the fuel pump despite your driving habits staying the same, it could point to a problem with your coils. 4. Difficulty Starting Another indication of a potential coil issue is having difficulty starting the vehicle. A failing coil may struggle to generate the necessary voltage for an initial spark, making the engine take longer to start or requiring several attempts to get going. 5. Check Engine Light The check engine light can activate for numerous reasons, but one common cause is issues with the ignition system, including the coils. Modern vehicles are equipped with an onboard diagnostic system that triggers the check engine light when it detects irregularities in the ignition process. Using a diagnostic scan tool can confirm whether the problem is related to the ignition. 6. Engine Backfiring Have you heard loud popping noises from your car? It could be backfiring. Backfiring happens when unburned fuel exits the engine into the exhaust system, where it ignites. Faulty coils can cause backfires by failing to ignite the fuel at the right time, leading to fuel buildup in the exhaust system. 7. Rough Idling If there's a problem with your coils, your engine may idle unevenly, producing a rough or jittery idle as the engine misses regular power strokes. This uneven performance can be particularly noticeable when you are stopped at a traffic light or when the engine is first started. Visit Your GMC Dealer to Check Your Coils If you suspect the coils in your ignition are faulty, you should visit your local dealership for a thorough inspection. Our certified technicians can accurately diagnose those issues and provide any needed replacements. Having trouble with your ignition? Don't wait. Visit Marquardt of Barrington GMC in Barrington, IL, to get your ignition inspected right away.

Regular maintenance ensures your vehicle always provides peak performance. As your GMC dealership, we'd like you to know some signs you need to visit for vehicle maintenance. more Check Engine Light Your GMC contains numerous sensors, each of which is connected to an important component. The sensors receive instructions from the computer and transmit information back to it. They also inform the computer of any problem with their connected component. If something goes wrong and the computer can't correct the issue, it logs the problem with an error code and illuminates the relevant warning light on your dash. The check engine light illuminates in response to any issue affecting engine performance. It also lights up if something goes wrong with the transmission, as the engine and transmission work together to move your vehicle. A blinking engine light highlights an issue like misfiring, while a solid engine light means a major engine problem. Our technicians will investigate and repair the problem. Gas Smell You should never smell gas around your vehicle except possibly briefly if you've you just visited the gas station. The fuel system is sealed for safety and to prevent air from entering and forming air bubbles that could block the system. Air would also reduce the system pressure, leading to reduced performance. If you smell gas, it's time to visit our service department ASAP so we can find the problem. Damage to the exhaust manifold, the section of the exhaust that connects to the cylinder exhaust vents, will cause fuel vapor to leak and enter your cabin. A loose or damaged fuel cap or a fuel-rich engine will also produce a strong fuel smell. All these issues will also reduce vehicle performance. We'll find the cause of the problem, and the fuel smell will disappear as soon as we fix it. Rattling Noises Strange rattling noises under your vehicle mean something is loose. Two possible sources of this noise are a broken exhaust hanger or a severely damaged catalytic converter. The exhaust system is held in position by hangers. In time, rust or other damage can cause a hanger to break. This allows the affected exhaust section to move slightly, and it will bang against the underside of your vehicle until we replace the hanger. The catalytic converter changes dangerous engine gases into harmless ones using intense heat, crushing pressure, and chemical reactions. A worn converter can overheat, and excessive temperatures can cause the honeycomb interior to crack. Cracks will spread, and parts of the honeycomb will break off and rattle inside the converter. We can't repair this damage, but we'll replace the converter. When you need maintenance, contact the experts at Marquardt of Barrington GMC in Barrington, IL.