Coopers Auto Repair Specialists in Tacoma, WA

What is a car diagnostic test?

You know how important, regular check-ups are for your physical health, so why would it surprise you to learn that vehicles need regular check-ups, too? What is a Car Diagnostic Test? A car diagnostic test uses specialized equipment and software to help your mechanic check all the computer-controlled systems on your vehicle in a safe

What do you need to know before buying a preowned vehicle?

There are many reasons why you might consider purchasing a preowned vehicle. What’s important is for you to take the time to perform certain tasks before you hand over your hard-earned money for that used car. Failure to do so can cost you big money in auto repairs in the long run. Inspect the Vehicle

How to reduce fleet maintenance.

Effective and efficient fleet maintenance can play a significant role in reducing fleet repair costs for your organization’s vehicles. Figuring The Cost of Fleet Maintenance The cost of fleet maintenance can be calculated by taking into account the capital investment represented by each vehicle, the cost of repairs for each vehicle, depreciation of the fleet

How Does Your Car’s Ignition System Work?

There are three major categories for ignition systems. Each works a little bit differently from the others, but all accomplish the same goal: getting your vehicle running and keeping it that way. Conventional Ignition System A conventional ignition system, which has been in use since the 1900s, consists of a primary circuit and a secondary

How does a vehicle’s suspension system work?

Does your car bounce when you hit a pothole? Or perhaps you’ve noticed your vehicle pulls to one side or the other as you drive. You may have even noticed uneven tire wear on your vehicle. If you’ve noticed your vehicle rides rougher than it used to, it’s time to take your vehicle to a

What is the function of a timing belt?

What Does a Timing Belt Do? The timing belt is an important component of your vehicle. It’s meant to keep the moving parts of the engine in perfect sync for a smooth drive. It is a rubber belt with teeth, or in older vehicles, it may be a chain that connects the camshaft and the

What is DEF, and why is it important?

What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid? Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a mixture of ⅔ deionized water and ⅓ urea that is added to your diesel fuel via a separate tank and control system. DEF is meant to reduce the emissions from a diesel engine. If your diesel medium or heavy-duty pickup is newer than 2010,

What is a car diagnostic test, and why is it important?

A car diagnostic test is the equipment and software your mechanic uses to pinpoint problems in the computer-controlled areas of your vehicle’s systems. It is a test that can be used to diagnose any issues in your vehicle, including check engine light diagnostics. What Can Be Tested? Diagnostic tests can be run on nearly every

Signs of Dirty or Failing Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors are part of the system that fuels your vehicle. Controlled by the vehicle’s computer, fuel injectors spray fuel into the combustion chamber at specific intervals and with specific volumes of fuel sent into the chamber. There are several common signs of dirty or clogged fuel injectors, and you might recognize them in your

What is an Ignition System and How Does it Work?

The ignition system in your vehicle creates a spark strong enough to jump the spark plug gap and route 15,000 to 25,000 volts of energy from the battery to ignite the fuel at exactly the proper moment to allow the expanding gasses to do the largest amount of work with the lowest fuel consumption. The