Manteo Auto Repair

Some of our customers at Lighthouse Automotive Inc are surprised to learn that there are actually two service schedules for their vehicles. One is the regular schedule and the other is the severe service schedule. Let's look at what the manufacturers say constitutes severe driving conditions and let you draw your own conclusions: Most of your trips are less than four miles/six kilometers Most of your trips are less than 10 miles/16 kilometers) and outside temperatures are below freezing The engine is at low speed most of the time – not on the highway You operate your vehicle in dusty areas You regularly tow a trailer, carry heavy loads or a car-top carrier Stop and go driving Driving in very hot or very cold weather So you can see that a lot has to do with how you drive, but some has to do with where you drive. Some areas of the country will be more or less severe than it is here in NC. For many, normal driving includes elements of severe servic ... read more

The Check Engine Light strikes fear into the hearts of some and is totally ignored by just as many.  Just what it means is a mystery to most of us. First, if your check engine light is flashing, that means that something is wrong that could cause severe damage to the catalytic converter or other components.  Get that taken care of right away.  If your check engine light is flashing, you shouldn’t drive at highway speeds, tow or haul heavy loads.  Take it easy all the way to the service center. If the light is glowing steadily, you should keep an eye on it for a day or two.  If the light doesn’t go off, schedule an appointment with your service advisor to get it checked out. Some more information on how the Check Engine Light works may be informative.  Most of your engine functions are controlled by a computer, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer.  The computer can adjust many engine parameters for environmental condition ... read more

Flats, blow outs, skids and longer stopping distances can all be the result of driving around NC on underinflated tires. Now, it's hard to tell when a radial tire is underinflated but your friendly and knowledgeable Lighthouse Automotive Inc can help you. The tire may not look low until it gets below 20 pounds – which is significantly underinflated. Your newer vehicle or light truck might be equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This technology has been used by race car drivers for years. They are able to head off problems from underinflation by closely monitoring tire pressure on the track.Obviously, TMPS systems don't come free for Wanchese car buyers. U.S. government studies have estimated the net costs of the TPMS system itself, maintaining the system, replacement of worn or broken parts and  ... read more