Toyota of Orlando explains 6 common car maintenance misdiagnoses

Bringing your car to an auto service center can be nerve-wracking, even if it’s just for routine car maintenance. However, the best way to combat car maintenance jitters is to educate yourself. Here at Toyota of Orlando, we’re all about working with our customers to best explain the issues your car is facing and come up with an affordable and efficient solution. But you can take a bigger part in it by learning the ins and outs of your vehicle and how it works. Today we’re talking about six common car maintenance misdiagnoses that you can be on the lookout for next time you service your vehicle.

Toyota of Orlando rediagnoses 6 common car issues

Misdiagnosis #1: Bad Suspension

If your mechanic tells you that your suspension is going bad, be sure to ask them to check the sway bars. A bad sway bar end link can cause symptoms that mimic a bad suspension system (like clunking and squeaking), but they’re much easier and more affordable to replace than your suspension.

Misdiagnosis #2: Bad water pump

A broken water pump can spell trouble for your car’s A/C and heating system. However, there may be another issue at hand. Have your tech check things like the coolant level and quality in your car, as well as the heater core - a clog there could cause issues that mimic a bad water pump.

Misdiagnosis #3: Low Freon

If your air-conditioning kicks out during the summer, it may seem like you need a new can of Freon or maybe a recharge of the system. Both are cheap and easy, but unfortunately, if they’re not the cause of the problem, you’ll be sweating again in no time. Instead, talk to your auto service mechanic about a compression test to pinpoint the problem before you start throwing money at it.

Misdiagnosis #4: Electrical issues

Electrical issues can be a big problem, especially in high-tech modern cars. However, before you panic, start small. Check the car’s sensors and computers first and try to work from there. It’s never easy to pinpoint an electrical issue, so make sure your mechanic takes their time and checks everything before jumping to conclusions.

Misdiagnosis #5: Fuel problems

Often when you have fuel problems, the fuel pump or fuel filter are targeted as the culprits. However, it could be a simple fix like a defective injector, a bad O-ring, or a dead solenoid. Exhaust the smaller options before you spring for an expensive new part.

Misdiagnosis #6: Bad O2 sensor

If you’re thinking you might have a bad O2 sensor, take a moment to check a few other things first. A bad sensor can actually be a trigger response from a different sensor (so test before you replace), and have your car maintenance tech check for a vacuum leak while they’re under the hood.

Let our Orlando car maintenance techs point you in the right direction

Still not sure if you have a misdiagnosis on your hands? Bring your car to Toyota of Orlando for a second opinion. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can reach our Orlando Toyota service center at (407) 298-4500.