Ledbetter's Mercedes Repairs

If your car's engine just cranks but won't start, the first thing you're going to want to check is if there's any fuel left. If there is, then you may want to have the vehicle professionally serviced because the fault could be anything from a dead sparkplug to a faulty fuel pump.

If your engine is stalling, it could be because a sensor is faulty or an electrical component is damaged or has gone bad. Bring your car in and we'll perform a diagnostic check to find out the cause.

The aroma of burning plastic coming from the engine while it's running could either be a problem with the battery cable or your vehicle's wiring could be in contact with the hot engine.

If your gas mileage is decreasing, check engine light comes on or vehicle has started running rough, this may indicate that your car needs a tune-up. The owner’s manual that comes with your car also suggests the tune-up frequency.

Asafa Powell, a famous Jamaican sprinter, once said: “I think about cars to try and distract myself. It's a good way to relax, take your mind off everything.”

What's that horrible squeak when you hit your brakes? That's the squealer - and you are lucky to have it, as many car manufacturers have stopped installing them. That squeal is telling you that your brakes need service ASAP before you wear out the rotors.

Two things that should be in every car emergency kit: a backup battery for a cell phone and a tool that can be used to break the glass in case you are unable to exit the vehicle due to electrical failure or flood waters.

While many do-it-yourself home car mechanics like to replace the shock absorbers on their vehicles, we do not recommend working on struts at home. Strut repair and replacement requires extensive disassembly, and the wheels must be realigned after replacement. Let professionals handle that job.

Periodically check the oil level in your car’s engine as it nears time to have the oil changed. Not only does it tell you the oil level, you can also see how dirty the oil is.

An electric motor relies on special brushes to keep it running, and these wear out over time. Starting at about 50,000 – 60,000 miles you should have them checked for signs of wear, and replace them when they wear down.

Even though you do not have to worry about emissions from your electric car, there are still some things that can keep it from passing inspection. Before going for your annual, bring it in and let us check the brakes, headlight alignment, wipers, and other items.

Because diesel fuel relies on pressure for combustion, the engine is subjected to greater heat ranges than gasoline engines are. As such, it is important to pay attention to warning lights and to have the cooling system checked on a regular basis.