5 Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Coil
Ignition coils are a small but essential component of your engine. Your coils transform the relatively low voltage of your battery into a powerful surge that allows your spark plugs to ignite the fuel in the engine’s cylinders. If you have a faulty ignition coil, your engine will falter. So if you notice any of the following five indicators of trouble, visit your local GMC dealer promptly for a replacement coil.
5 Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Coil
Your Engine’s Misfiring
Any coughing or sputtering from your engine accompanied by a jolting sensation means your engine’s misfiring. When misfiring, your engine might lose power altogether for a few seconds. It’s a very worrying sensation when you’re on the road.
A misfire is when the combustion process that fires your cylinders and powers your car doesn’t happen properly. The fuel-air mixture is pumped into the combustion chamber but the spark plug fails to ignite it. Misfiring almost always comes down to either a faulty spark plug or coil.
You’re Idling Roughly
When your cylinders aren’t all firing correctly, you’ll notice it very clearly when idling, such as while you’re waiting at a traffic light. The usually smooth, pleasant rumble of your engine in idle will become a juddering, faltering, noisy experience.
You Start Stalling
At worst, your misfiring engine will stall altogether. It might then be difficult to restart the engine. This is only likely to happen if more than one of your coils has given up the ghost.
You’re Accelerating Sluggishly
With a malfunctioning ignition coil reducing your engine’s power, you won’t be able to accelerate as quickly as before. Hopefully, you’ll notice this problem and have it fixed before you try to overtake another vehicle. Overtaking is one of the only situations when slower acceleration can become quite dangerous.
You See Black Smoke From Your Tailpipe
When fuel fails to ignite and burn in your combustion chambers, all that excess, unburned fuel needs to escape from the engine. It eventually gets blown out of your exhaust, usually in the form of thick black smoke.
Your Check Engine Light Blinks On
All these engine problems resulting from a bad coil will quickly be detected by your GMC’s sophisticated computerized monitors. You’ll then see the dreaded check engine light blinking on your dashboard. Whenever you see that light, it’s best to visit a technician right away.
How a GMC Dealer Examines Your Coils
A technician at your local dealership will use tools to interface with your GMC’s onboard computer. This helps them pinpoint the problem area that the car’s monitors have detected. They’ll take out the spark plugs and coils and use a multimeter to test them all. If your malfunctioning coil can’t be cleaned or repaired, they’ll replace it with a new one.
Have your engine and coils examined today at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale. We offer top-notch, personalized service and excellent vehicles.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or not, attending a live game is exceptional. The buzz in the air, the clamor of the audience, and the feeling that anything may happen to make for an unforgettable experience. Here are three of the best options if you’re looking for great stadiums or sports venues to visit near Springdale, AR.
The Top 3 Stadiums and Sports Venues in Driving Distance of Springdale, AR
Arvest Ballpark
Located along 56th Street in Springdale, Arvest Ballpark is a city-owned ballpark that can seat over 6,500 people. This modern, state-of-the-art ballpark offers spectacular views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains and features sound systems, scoreboards, and lighting worthy of any major sporting event.
Arvest is home to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals so that baseball fans can get their fix with weekly Minor League; plus, on game nights, the atmosphere comes alive with excitement and energy from cheering on the home team. Aside from live games, visitors can take advantage of numerous interactive experiences off the field. Kids can swing at Wiffle balls in the playground before big games or pose for pictures with players around the concourse.
Parsons Stadium
Built over 20 years ago as the home to the Rodeo of the Ozarks, Parsons Stadium on Emma Avenue in Springdale has since been used for countless other sporting events, such as major league baseball girls’ state softball tournaments and NCAA Arkansas Razorback games. Spectators can delight in seating along one of the well-maintained wooden bleacher sections that circle the field or opt for a more intimate setting along the grassy hillside.
One thing that stands out about Parsons Stadium is its dedication to rodeos. Every year, the venue hosts an array of rodeo events that draw fans from around the state, from junior-level bull-riding contests for beginners to its annual ProRodeo Series for cowboys wanting to compete at a higher level.
Bud Walton Arena
Spend your afternoon watching a live game at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, a few miles from Springdale, Arkansas. Fortunately, your GMC Terrain SLE is spacious enough to take the entire family for a sporty road trip.
As one of the home courts of the University of Arkansas Razorbacks basketball team, the multi-purpose facility can accommodate over 19,000 spectators, making it perfect for other large-scale events like NCAA tournaments or professional bouts. Every feature in the stadium is designed to showcase the spirit of athletic competition at its best, from its roomy stands to its sharp graphics and sound system.
Check out the above spots if you are looking for a fantastic place to hang out and watch your favorite game. If you’re looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, contact Crain Buick GMC of Springdale. Our dealership is proud to offer an incredible selection of cars and top-notch customer service.
Your Buick has numerous electrical systems, from the spark plugs that ignite combustion to the radio and seat heating. All these systems depend on a steady flow of electricity. Damaged connectors, worn wiring, and a failing alternator are some of the problems a car can experience if it’s not regularly serviced. Your Buick dealer can fix any electrical problems, and these are a few signs that you need to see us for repair.
Electrical Problems? See Your Buick Dealer Today
Damaged Wiring and Connectors
Your car contains over a mile of electrical wiring connecting each component to the alternator. These wires are covered in plastic and rubber coating to protect them against dirt, water, and other contamination. Wiring in your car, unlike wiring in your home, is subject to stresses like water, dirt, movement, and heat. These environmental factors can cause wiring damage.
Frayed or damaged wiring can cause systems to fail, as a particular component loses its access to the electrical supply. The electrical resistance from the damaged wiring can cause the wiring to overheat and burn. Burning wiring can damage other components and result in an engine fire if the problem isn’t fixed. We can trace the wiring and replace any damaged sections.
Worn Alternator
The alternator is probably the most critical part of the electrical system, responsible for generating electricity for your car. Alternators are designed to work continuously, transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy. An alternator will last for approximately eight years before it needs replacement. Failures by other components, like a damaged battery, can reduce the alternator’s lifespan.
A worn alternator produces less electricity, as its bearings can fail, the stator become damaged, and it suffers metal fatigue. The reduced supply of electricity from the alternator will cause problems like dim bulbs, electrical glitches, and eventually a dead battery. Our technicians will test your alternator and repair or replace it to fix this problem.
Blown Fuses
All electrical systems in your car have fuses. These fuses protect their component by absorbing the electricity from shorts or any overload in the electrical system. The fuse will absorb the rogue electrical charge and blow out. A blown fuse blocks the flow of the current, protecting the component from damage.
The blown fuse also blocks regular electricity flow to the component, and until the fuse is replaced, the affected component won’t work. We can easily test blown fuses and quickly replace them for you.
These are just a few possible electrical issues. Problems in the electrical system can also appear to be caused by other faults. If you experience any strange electrical issues with your Buick, call our service department right away at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale.
Like most drivers, you probably make every effort to maintain your vehicle. You wash your car frequently, park in a secure area, and often visit your local Buick dealer. However, even the most cautious drivers occasionally sustain car scratches or car dents due to collisions. So what should you do if this happens? Keep reading to find out!
What Should You Do If You Have Car Scratches or Car Dents? Visit Your Buick Dealer Today.
Contact Your Local Dealer
Your local dealer probably has state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that can fix any dents or scratches on your car. In addition, they provide professionalism and expertise in repairing the damages. As a result, you will be able to get your car back to its original condition in no time.
Additionally, if your vehicle is still under warranty, the warranty will likely cover the cost of the repairs. Besides, your local dealer can offer other benefits, such as a loaner car while your car is being repaired.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Even if the damage appears minimal, it is always a good idea to call your insurance provider if your car is damaged. If you do not contact your insurance company, you may be surprised to learn that your insurance policy does not cover the damage.
Additionally, even if your policy covers the damage, you might still be required to pay a deductible. Furthermore, the sooner you contact the insurance company, the sooner they can begin the claims process. It can help to ensure that you get your repairs done promptly.
Have the Damage Appraised
The first thing to do after a dent or scratch on your car is to get the damage assessed. It is crucial since it will enable you to estimate the cost of the repairs.
A damage appraisal will also assist you in determining whether to submit an insurance claim or not. It might be less expensive to pay for the repairs if they are modest. To get the repairs paid for, you must make an insurance claim if the damage is extensive.
Get a Rental Car
Hiring a rental car when your car is in the shop can be extremely helpful and convenient. For one, you don’t have to rely on others for rides or transportation, which can be challenging to coordinate.
Additionally, rental cars are often less expensive than taking taxis or ride-sharing services, especially if you need a car for an extended time. And finally, having a rental car can give you peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable form of transportation while your vehicle is being repaired.
If you require a car scratch repair or dent removal service, don’t hesitate to contact us at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale. We’ll be happy to help get your car back into pristine condition.
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Routine car inspections are the only way to ensure your safety behind the wheel of your Buick or GMC. Regular inspections from the certified technicians at your Buick dealer will ensure that minor issues are detected early, repaired expertly, and ensure your Buick Encore or GMC Terrain always performs optimally.
When Was the Last Time Your GMC or Buick Had a Car Inspection From Your Buick Dealer?
Inspection Intervals
Every Buick or GMC model comes with a service schedule and factory-recommended maintenance intervals when specific inspections must be performed to keep your vehicle in tip-top running condition.
Generally, the factory recommends that you take your car for an inspection at least once a year to keep your vehicle reliable, fuel-efficient, and safe on the road. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for your specific model’s recommended maintenance intervals and inspection requirements.
Factors That Influence Inspection Intervals
How often your car will need an inspection depends on the model, year, and engine of the vehicle you drive and your driving habits, and the conditions under which you operate your vehicle. How you drive your car, the roads you use, the traffic conditions, and the climate also affect how often your car will need comprehensive inspections and safety checks.
Talk to the technician at your dealer to help you find the best maintenance schedule for your model and driving conditions to ensure safety and optimal vehicle performance.
Comprehensive Vehicle Inspections
Every time you take your vehicle to your dealer for recommended maintenance, the technicians comprehensively inspect every vehicle system and component. The checks include thorough windshield, light, steering, suspension, brake, and tire inspections to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications and adhere to the U.S. safety standards.
The Importance of Routine Inspections
Routine inspections from the certified technicians at your dealer are crucial to ensure your vehicle is safe on the road. The technicians are factory-trained, know your car inside and out, and precisely what is required to keep it performing at its best.
During an inspection, minor issues will be detected early on and repaired timeously before the problem escalates and leave you stranded on the side of the road. With routine inspections, you will have the assurance that your car is safe and will get you where you need to go.
The Benefits of Inspections
Your vehicle will be reliable when you take your car to your dealer for routine inspections. You will save money on fuel and avoid unexpected and costly repairs. When your engine runs smoothly, your vehicle will last longer, and you will enjoy every mile behind the wheel.
When it comes to your safety, rely on the certified technicians at your dealer for complete peace of mind. Call Crain Buick GMC of Springdale today to schedule an inspection and ensure that you are safe behind the wheel and that your Buick or GMC is running perfectly.
3 Signs Your Car Needs a New Catalytic Converter
Your car’s catalytic converter use pressure, heat, and chemical reactions to convert dangerous chemicals produced by the engine into less harmful ones. In time, your converter may become blocked or damaged, and you’ll need a replacement. When this happens, your Buick dealer and GMC dealer can help you. These are a few of the signs that your converter could be wearing out.
3 Signs You Need a New Catalytic Converter From Your Buick Dealer and GMC Dealer
Rattling Noises
Anytime you hear rattling noises in a car, it’s automatically a sign that something is damaged or broken. If the sound is coming from your converter, the converter’s internal structure is likely breaking down. The inside of your converter consists of a honeycomb structure. Inside this honeycomb, noxious gases are converted into safer ones.
Damage and wear can produce cracks in the honeycomb over time. These cracks can lead to part of the structure breaking off. Any damage to part of a honeycomb reduces the strength of the remaining sections. The rattling sounds are made by broken sections of the internal structure moving around inside the converter as your car drives. We can’t fix the honeycomb, but we can replace your converter.
Clogged Converter
The converter is part of the exhaust system. Once it’s finished its conversion process, the newly-created chemicals are forced into the exhaust pipe. The conversion process generates byproducts, and these byproducts can clog the converter. Carbon and other chemicals can build up and block the exit to the exhaust system.
If the exit is blocked, the toxic engine chemicals will be forced back into your engine. Their presence increases the fuel-air ratio, as they contain burnt fuel, sulfur, and other compounds. The increasing fuel-air mix in your engine can cause misfiring and damage to other components. Our technicians can clean the converter and unblock it to fix this problem.
Sulfur Smell
A rotten egg smell from your car always signals the presence of hydrogen sulfide. This toxic chemical is created through the mixing of sulfur compounds from the fuel in your engine with hydrogen in the air. If you smell this from your exhaust, it’s a sign that your converter is damaged. Hydrogen sulfide is one of the chemicals the converter targets and changes into sulfur dioxide.
The presence of hydrogen sulfide means your car would fail an emissions test. It also means our technicians need to examine your converter to find the cause of the problem. Once we’ve found the cause, we’ll repair it. If your converter has been seriously damaged, we can install a new one for you.
If your converter is showing signs of trouble, call us right away at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale.
When you’re driving in low visibility conditions like night or fog, you need to be able to see the road ahead. Driving down a dark road at night without lights is risky and could cause an accident. If you need new headlights, your GMC dealer can fit them. These are a few signs that you have headlight problems.
Time for New Headlights? Visit Your GMC Dealer Today!
Worn Bulbs
One of the most common reasons for headlight failure is worn bulbs. Headlight bulbs, like any other bulb, have a limited life and will eventually fail. Depending on the type of bulbs in your car, they will last from 500 hours to 30,000 hours before they need replacement. This might not sound like a long time, but headlights are only used for a limited time each day.
Bulbs that are failing due to age will usually show warning signs like dimming or flickering. If you start seeing signs that your bulbs could be failing, we can quickly and easily fit their replacements. If only one bulb is malfunctioning, we advise replacing both of them. Headlight bulbs are installed in pairs, and if one is failing, the other will fail in a few days.
Blown Fuses and Damaged Relays
Your headlights have fuses like all the other electrical components in your car. Fuses protect their attached component by automatically blowing to prevent a short or power surge from damaging the component. Your headlight bulbs can fail due to a worn fuse. Our technicians will test your fuses and replace any blown ones.
Relays are tiny alternators that turn the low electrical current into a high electrical current. Your GMC has three sets of relays, one for the high beams, the second for the low beams, and the third controls your car’s running lights. When you turn on the high beams, for example, your computer sends a message to the high beam relay to switch it on. A failed relay will prevent the lights connected to it from working. We can test and replace a damaged relay.
Corroded Sockets
Your headlights and their electrical connections are protected against the elements by clear plastic lenses. These lenses prevent water, dirt, and contaminants from damaging bulb sockets or wiring. The lenses, however, can become damaged by grit, or other hard material thrown up from the surface. It only takes a small crack, and rain can leak into the headlight recess.
Water can quickly corrode bulb sockets and cause the bulbs to blow. It can also cause electrical shorting in the wiring. Our technicians can replace the damaged parts and install new lenses to fix this problem.
If your headlights aren’t working correctly, call us right away at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale.
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Nestled deep within the Ozarks, Springdale AR is surrounded by dramatic scenery. It’s also one of the state’s economic and cultural hubs with a long history that goes back to the early 1800s. If you’re looking to experience the best that the city has to offer, you’ll find that there’s a whole lot to do and see. Here are just a few tourist attractions that you’ll definitely want to consider adding to your itinerary!
Driving to Springdale AR? Check Out These 4 Nearby Tourist Attractions
1. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
Springdale was originally called Shiloh when it was founded back in 1838, so it’s only natural that this history museum’s name pays homage to that fact. Northwest Arkansas’s rich history has been preserved here through several extensive collections of artifacts, including those of Native American origin, local art, and archival material. The museum’s research library also boasts over 500,000 photos that illustrate life in the Ozark Mountains.
2. War Eagle Cavern
Located close to the shores of Beaver Lake, this expansive natural cavern is notable for its unique formations, waterfalls, and winding stream. Knowledgeable guides will take visitors on a tour that takes them deep into the cave and through various rooms. The trail taken to get to the cavern is an attraction in its own right, with amazing views of canyons and deeply forested areas.
You’ll also want to make a stop at the park’s Mystery Shack, where the laws of physics seem to go haywire! Popularly attributed to some sort of strange vortex, water will flow uphill and people will appear to suddenly grow or shrink.
3. FlyARH Tours
One of the best ways to take in the scenery of the Springfield Plateau is by scheduling a helicopter tour with FlyARH. Their Eureka Springs tour is 35 minutes long and takes guests through the majestic Ozarks and over Beaver Lake. The 12-minute Downtown Fayetteville tour flies over prominent landmarks, such as the Springdale Country Club & Golf Course, Dickson Street, and the Razorback Football Stadium.
Opt for the Ultimate Experience and you’ll be taken on an hour-long ride that lets you see it all, plus an extended trip over the mountains! If you want to take the controls yourself, FlyARH offers introductory training with both fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.
4. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
Just a short drive away in Prairie Grove, this park is home to one of the most well-preserved Civil War battlegrounds. On December 7, 1862, the Union Army managed to wrestle control of northwestern Arkansas away from the Confederates after what became known as the Battle of Prarie Grove. Visitors can learn more about the event by going on guided tours or visiting the Hindman Hall Museum, which showcases artifacts recovered from the battle.
From Hindman Hall, you can take a self-guided driving tour, so that you can learn about Civil War history from the comfort of your GMC Terrain’s available leather-appointed seats.
It’s sure to be a trip worth remembering when you head over to these exciting places! If you’re in town, then make a stop at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale today and take out one of the new models for a test drive!
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There is no better place to spend fall than in Springdale, AR. With cozy weather, changing leaves, and fun fall activities, you’ll have a blast celebrating all season long. Here are our top recommendations on what you should do in the area!
4 Fun Fall Activities You Can Drive to From Springdale, AR
1. Ozarktober Fest
Ozarktober Fest is truly something that can’t be missed! Every year, Downtown Springdale hosts a celebration of fall and the Ozarks. Throughout October, you’ll be able to find events such as fall bonfires, haunted train cars, and groovy music sessions. Most of these events are located outdoors in the Downtown Dining District. Each event is separately ticketed.
If you can score tickets, we highly recommend doing the Mountain and Mimosas Train Brunch. The brunch offers a delicious multi-course meal aboard the Arkansas-Missouri Railroad. You’ll enjoy a scenic view while feasting on fall-flavored pastries, pancakes, waffles, and more! Tickets are $100 and sell out quickly.
2. Rivercrest Orchard
During September and October, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the annual Fall at the Farm event hosted by Rivercrest Orchard at McGarrah Farm. With a corn maze, sunflower patch, pumpkin patch, apple blasters, hayride, zipline, and more, you’ll have plenty of fun exploring the farm! This is a great family-friendly fall event, perfect for all ages. General admission is only $12.95.
3. Springdale Market
Fall is the perfect time to try some seasonal vegetables. The Springdale Market is the place to go to source out all of your favorite fall products. Pumpkins, mums, and fall-flavored treats line the booths during the fall season. Although small, you’ll be able to pickup a variety of fresh products that you can put in soups or pastries. It is the perfect place to stroll around if you are looking to enjoy the cool weather!
4. Black Apple Brewery
Black Apple is Arkansas’s first cidery and produces some of the best cider in town. Every Thursday night, the tap room lights up with comedy performances and live music. It’s a perfect place for date night or for a gathering with friends! If you like sampling different flavors, be sure to check out the cider flight. Always remember to drink and drive responsibly.
During Fall, you’ll be able to try the seasonal Pumpkin Spiced Cider. The enticing cider warms the senses with bittersweet apple, pumpkin pie, and sweet baking spice. There is no better way to ring in the season than with a delicious glass of cider.
As you can see, Springdale comes alive during the fall. With the built-in electric heater in the 2022 Buick Encore, you’ll be able to enjoy the festivities no matter how cool the weather gets. Visit Crain Buick GMC of Springdale to browse our inventory!
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As a driver, you know when something is wrong with your car. If something doesn’t look or feel right, your Buick dealer and GMC dealer can examine it for you. We can repair any possible problem with your car and have you back on the road again in no time. These are samples of some of the engine problems we can fix.
3 Engine Problems You Can Get Fixed at Your Buick Dealer and GMC Dealer
Blocked Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter in your exhaust system converts combustion gases into less harmful ones. Combustion releases dangerous and toxic chemicals like carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. These chemicals are dangerous and increase airborne pollution. The converter changes them into carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
The conversion process in the converter can lead to a buildup of carbon. This chemical can steadily block the exit from the converter. A blocked converter prevents exhaust gases from passing into the exhaust system and leaving your car. Exhaust gases will be forced back into your engine and can cause further problems. Our technicians can remove the carbon blockage to fix your converter.
Damaged Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor (MAF) monitors the amount of air that enters your engine. Air flows into your engine via the car air filter. Air is essential, as efficient combustion requires 14 parts air to 1 part fuel. Your car’s computer uses the information from the MAF to assign the correct amount of fuel to meet this ratio.
If the MAF is damaged, it may provide wrong information or no information. Without accurate information, your engine’s fuel-air mix will be wrong. A high fuel-to-air ratio in the engine will cause low compression and poor combustion. This reduces engine performance and can damage your spark plugs and cylinders. Our technicians can test your MAF and replace it with a new one if it’s damaged.
Cracked Radiator
The radiator is the most important part of your car’s cooling system. It takes in hot air from the engine and cools it via heat exchange. This is essential, as your engine generates vast amounts of heat. If this heat isn’t removed, your engine temperature will climb, and your car can overheat. An overheating engine can suffer permanent damage.
A car’s radiator is made from aluminum and plastic. It’s light but strong and reduces the weight in the front of your car. Unfortunately, the plastic sections of the radiator can get damaged. A crack in the radiator reduces pressure in the cooling system, and coolant will leak out. The radiator’s cooling ability will suffer, and the lack of coolant will increase your engine temperature. We can install a new radiator to fix this problem.
If you have any problem with your engine, call us ASAP at Crain Buick GMC of Springdale.
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