Blogs

7 Common Causes of Abnormal Engine Noises An automobile, akin to a living organism, communicates its state of health to its owner. A frequently overlooked medium of this communication is engine noise. Although they might sometimes appear insignificant, these sounds can often be symptoms of critical issues that, if unattended, could result in substantial repair costs. Thankfully, the knowledgeable team at Northrich Automotive is well-versed in deciphering these auditory signals and providing appropriate solutions. In this informative post, we will delve into seven common causes of abnormal engine noises and discuss how they can be rectified effectively. Common Causes of Abnormal Engine Noises Engine noises should never be dismissed as mere nuisances. They are indicators of potential internal problems that warrant attention. Let us explore the most common types. Valvetrain Noise The valvetrain noise, typically manifes ... read more

                  How Often Does a BMW Need an Oil Change? Owning a BMW is a significant investment and a luxury that many car enthusiasts aspire to have. These cars are well-known for their style, performance, and reliability. However, to keep your BMW running smoothly, you need to make sure that you maintain it regularly. One of the most essential maintenance tasks is regularly changing the oil.  But, how often does your BMW need an oil change, and where is the best local repair shop to get it serviced near you? In this blog post, we'll answer these questions and provide valuable information about BMW oil changes. Finding a reliable and trustworthy repair shop for your BMW can be challenging. BMWs are high-performance vehicles with unique maintenance requirements that not every mechanic can handle. It's essential to choose a shop that specializes in workin ... read more

As a car owner, you know how frustrating it can be when your vehicle starts acting up without knowing what’s wrong. Even worse? When you're not sure what to do or where to turn for help.  You want a full-service auto repair shop that specializes in your make-specific vehicle model, whether it's a BMW repair, Mercedes, or Volkswagen repair, but finding one in the Plano, TX area can be challenging.  That's where Northrich Automotive comes in. Full-Service Auto Repair Shop in Plano, TX At Northrich Automotive, we've been providing quality car care to Plano and the surrounding DFW metroplex since 1996. We understand that car maintenance and repair can be stressful, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure that our customers feel at ease when they bring their vehicles to us. Our family-owned and operated business prides itself on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship. We work on all makes and models, and our team of experienced technicians spe ... read more

Ways to Freshen Up Your Car for Spring As the weather warms up and spring is in full swing, it's important to make sure your vehicle is running in tip-top shape. To freshen up your car for spring, there are some maintenance routine tasks you should carry out. These include: Changing the oil and air filters: Replacing the oil and air filters on a regular basis is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your car running great all spring long. Cleaning the interior: Cleaning the interior of your vehicle is a great way to freshen it up for springtime. Vacuum the floors and wipe down any leather or vinyl surfaces, and clean the windows and dashboard with a damp cloth. Cleaning the exterior: Washing the exterior of your car is one of the quickest ways to make it look new again. Use a gentle car wash and a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the paint. Checking the tires: Springtime is the perfect time to ... read more

Why Is My Vehicle Leaking Oil? Oil leaks can be a common problem for many car owners, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. If left unaddressed, oil leaks can lead to engine damage and potentially costly repairs. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at why your car may have an oil leak and what you can do to fix it. Worn or Damaged Gaskets and Seals Gaskets and seals are designed to prevent oil from leaking out of the engine. Over time, these gaskets and seals can become worn or damaged, allowing oil to seep out. It is one of the most common causes of oil leaks and can often be fixed by replacing the damaged gaskets and seals. Loose or Damaged Oil Pan The oil pan is typically positioned at the bottom of the engine and is designed to hold the engine oil. If the oil pan is loose or damaged, it can cause oil to leak out. It can often be mended by tightening the bolts that hold the oil pan in place or by replacing the damaged oil pan altogether. Cracked Engine Block o ... read more

What Is DOT Fluid? DOT fluid is a type of hydraulic brake fluid used in vehicles. It is a blend of glycol ethers and borate esters with a high boiling point, making it resistant to vaporization and able to perform in high-temperature conditions. DOT fluid is classified into four categories: DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1. DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids are the most common and are compatible with most vehicles. DOT 3 fluid has a lower boiling point than DOT 4, making it less expensive but also less effective in high-performance vehicles. DOT 4 fluid is suggested for high-performance vehicles. DOT 5 fluid is silicone-based and is incompatible with vehicles that use DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 fluids. It is commonly used in military and industrial applications. DOT 5.1 fluid is a high-performance fluid that is similar to DOT 4 but has a higher boiling point. It is important to use the correct type of fluid for your vehicle, as using the wrong type can cause damage to the ... read more

                            What Are the Most Common Exhaust System Repairs? Having trouble with your vehicle's exhaust system? If so, you're not alone. Exhaust system problems are some of the most common issues you might face as a car owner.  Your exhaust system plays a vital role in your vehicle's performance. It helps to control emissions and ensures your engine runs efficiently.  However, like all other parts of your vehicle, your exhaust system can develop problems over time. Curious about whether you need to get your vehicle checked for exhaust system repairs? The Most Common Exhaust System Problems Exhaust leaks, corrosion, broken hangers, catalytic converter failure, and muffler damage are all common issues that can arise with your vehicle's exhaust system. It's so important to know these problems and their symptoms so you can identify them early and get them re ... read more