3 Signs Your GMC Needs Maintenance

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!

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