Kenvil & Lake Hopatcong Auto Repair

Are you a proud owner of a GM vehicle equipped with the 2.4 liter Ecotec motor? Or perhaps you're considering purchasing one? While this engine has gained popularity for its fuel efficiency and performance in various models, it's not without its share of issues that owners and potential buyers should be aware of. In this blog post, we'll get into some of the common problems associated with the Chevy 2.4 liter Ecotec motor, providing insights to help you make informed decisions.   This motor was developed by General Motors with efficiency and fuel economy in mind for daily driving applications. It is an inline 4 cylinder that produces 164 - 182 hp and about 172 lb-ft of torque. It features direct injection, dual overhead cams, and variable valve timing. It can be found in cars such as the Chevrolet Captiva, Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, Buick Verano (CX/CXL), and B ... read more

The Silent Heroes: Understanding the Importance of Catalytic Converters In the world of cars and environmental consciousness, there's a silent hero that’s often overlooked the catalytic converter. You may have heard about this fancy part of the exhaust system that hides under the car, waiting to play its part when you turn your car on. Its role in reducing harmful emissions from vehicles and preserving the air we breathe is crucial. Let's dive into this vital component and explore why it deserves our attention. What is a Catalytic Converter? Remember when masks were required for any travel during the COVID-19 outbreak? The purpose was to stop the spread of the virus or “pollutant” by filtering the air you breathe out through a mask. You can think of a catalytic converter in the same sense. It’s a device installed in your vehicle's exhaust system that converts harmful pollutants created by the combustion process into less harmful emissions before ... read more

Brakes are fundamental to vehicle safety. They enable you to control your car's speed and stop when necessary, preventing accidents and ensuring safe driving conditions. Without properly functioning brakes, your vehicle's control is severely compromised, posing significant safety risks. Regular inspections and maintenance of your brake system are crucial for ensuring that your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. Signs That Your Brakes Need Attention Several indicators can suggest that your brakes need professional attention: Noise: Squealing or grinding noises when applying brakes often indicate that your brake pads or shoes are worn out and need replacement. Vibration: If you feel vibrations or pulsations in your steering wheel when braking, it might signal warped rotors that need to be checked. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: This could indicate air in the brake lines or an issue with the brake fluid, bot ... read more

Looking to kick off the summer with a smooth ride? Look no further than Magic Lube and Rubber in Lake Hopatcong, where a special offer on select Cooper tires is currently up for grabs. From now through July 31, 2024, you can take advantage of an exclusive rebate program and gear up for the season's adventures with a brand-new set of tires. When you purchase a set of four new select Cooper brand tires, you could be eligible to receive up to a $100 Visa® Reward through a simple mail-in or online rebate process. This limited-time offer applies to a range of eligible Cooper tires, including popular models such as the Cobra Instinct, Discoverer Road+Trail AT, Discoverer Rugged Trek, and more. The rebate program features varying reward amounts, with options for $100, $75, and $50 Visa® Rewards based on the specific tires purchased. Whether you're eyeing the top-tier models or exploring the budget-friendly options, there's something for everyone to make the most of this ... read more

As the temperatures rise and summer approaches, the last thing you want is for your car’s air conditioning (A/C) system to fail. There’s nothing worse than being stuck in traffic on a scorching day without a cool breeze to keep you comfortable. At Magic Lube and Rubber Auto Repair and Service, we understand the importance of a well-functioning A/C system, which is why we offer comprehensive A/C system checks to ensure your ride remains cool and comfortable all summer long. The A/C System Check Process Step 1: Initial Inspection When you bring your vehicle to Magic Lube and Rubber for an A/C system check, the first step our skilled technicians take is to perform an initial inspection. We start by ensuring that the A/C compressor, the heart of the system, is turning on and operating correctly. The compressor is crucial as it circulates the refrigerant through the system, enabling the cooling process.   Step 2: Checking the Pressures To diagnose the health of your A ... read more

In our recent blog and video discussing the significance of fluid change services for your vehicle, we goofed and accidentally omitted a crucial aspect: power steering fluid. We received some feedback on this oversight, and we're here to rectify it. So, let's dive into the world of power steering fluid and shed light on its importance. First, it's essential to note that not all vehicles are equipped with power steering, and advancements like electric power steering have emerged in recent years. Prior to 1996, power steering was an optional feature, but nowadays, most newer vehicles are equipped with this system to assist with maneuvering, especially during tight turns. There are primarily two types of power steering systems: conventional hydraulic and electric power steering. Interestingly, some electric systems incorporate hydraulic power steering, utilizing a mineral oil-based fluid. It's crucial to understand that not all systems use the same type of fluid, mak ... read more

As drivers, we often prioritize maintaining the visible components of our vehicles, such as the engine, brakes, and tires. However, one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is the suspension system. At Automotive Magic and Magic Lube and Rubber, we understand the significance of a well-maintained suspension system and its impact on both safety and performance on the road. The Importance of Suspension Maintenance for Safety  Your vehicle's suspension system plays a vital role in ensuring your safety while driving. It provides stability, control, and comfort. Worn or damaged suspension components can compromise these essential functions, putting you and your passengers at risk. For example, if you drive on bumpy roads with worn-out shocks or struts, the excessive bouncing and instability can affect your ability to maintain control of the vehicle, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Compromised suspension components can lead to uneven tire wear, affecting traction and gri ... read more

Recently, Brendan, One of the many skilled technicians at the Automotive Magic evaluated a Transit 150 with transmission problems for a commercial business owner. The vehicle had inconsistent transmission issues where the transmission would randomly start to buck and fall out of gear, or hard shift.  After some diagnostics, Brendan identified the root of the issue. The transmission output shaft speed sensor was losing connection randomly, causing the computer to determine the gear selection and shift point/speed incorrectly. To solve this problem, Brendan had to remove the sub-frame to access the transmission oil pan and expose the valve body assembly. However, the client decided to replace the entire transmission as preventative maintenance to prevent future downtime.  He replaced the transmission as the client requested and they were thrilled with the results. Brendan's hard work paid o ... read more

Understanding Fuel Octanes: How They Impact Your Car's Performance When you pull up to the gas station, you're often faced with a choice: regular, mid-grade, or premium fuel. While the price difference between these options may catch your eye, what's more important is understanding the significance of their octane ratings and how they can affect your vehicle's performance. Let's dive into the world of fuel octane and unravel the mystery behind this crucial aspect of engine optimization ... read more

Maintaining your car battery is an essential aspect of keeping your vehicle in good working order. At Magic Lube & Rubber, we believe that your battery is the lifeline of your car and requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning at its best. Let's take a closer look at why your battery matters and what you can do to ensure it stays healthy. Your Battery's Role in Your Vehicle Your battery is responsible for providing the initial energy required to start your car's engine. Without it, your vehicle won't move an inch. Additionally, your battery helps regulate voltage, which is essential for preventing damage to sensitive electronic components. From headlights to power windows, your battery ensures that all electrical systems in your car function correctly. How Long Does a Battery Last? On average, a car battery lasts between three to five years. However, this can vary based on several factors, including driving habits, weat ... read more