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Car maintenance is a simple process for drivers who want to maintain their cars in between trips to the dealer, save time and money, and avoid expensive repairs. If you prefer to have your dealership handle the maintenance because you feel out of your depth, your GMC dealer can help you, too. Dealer technicians will keep comprehensive records of all your services, use approved filters and fluids, and make sure every part of your vehicle is in good working order. 4 Car Maintenance Tips From Your Buick GMC Dealer 1. Fluids Regularly check your fluids and replace them when they are depleted or dirty. Oil is the most important fluid because it helps your engine avoid friction and heat, major causes of engine wear. When checking your oil, check it at least once a month. If you must change the oil, most manufacturers recommend changing it every 3,000 miles, so check the manual to make sure. Take your vehicle to the dealer if you don't feel comfortable changing fluids. Other fluids you want to check are brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. If any of these fluids are low, add the correct fluid based on your owner's manual. If you notice a spot on the ground from any of these fluids, it is a good idea to take your vehicle to the dealer and schedule service so the technicians can find the source of the leak and fix it. This will help you avoid future problems. 2. Lights Check the outside lights, including your fog lights and high and low beam lights. Some cars may have a special tool that allows you to easily change these lights. Otherwise, you should visit the dealership mechanic to do this for you. Brake lights and blinkers are also important. Making sure these parts work ensures the safety of you and your passengers. 3. Tire Pressure Tire pressure should also be checked regularly because low tire pressure will affect fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires control tire wear and help avoid problems with vehicle alignment. Make sure to check the pressures in your tires at least once per month when you check your fluids.  It is also important to check the spare tire as well. 4. Battery Batteries are another important part of your vehicle that should be checked regularly. Batteries should be replaced every four or five years. Cold weather can lead to weakened batteries. Fortunately, dealers will test batteries for free, so take advantage of this service to get your batteries checked. Having them tested is a good idea to avoid getting stuck when the vehicle won't start. Regular routine maintenance is important because it saves you from expensive repairs and helps your vehicle last longer. Visit us at Crain Buick GMC to schedule your next maintenance on your Buick or GMC vehicle.

Engine problems are the last thing any driver wants to consider. Most drivers imagine that any problem with the engine is expensive and time-consuming to fix. Fortunately, most problems can be quickly and inexpensively fixed if they're identified when they start. Your GMC dealership can fix any possible issue for you. These are some examples of problems we can repair for you. 3 Engine Problems You Should Only Get Fixed at Your GMC Dealership Blocked Radiator The radiator is responsible for removing the heat from your engine. It does this by heat exchange, as the heat generated by your engine is swapped for cooler outside air. This heat exchange occurs in the thin metal tubes in the front of the radiator. Liquid coolant in your engine absorbs the heat and transfers it to the radiator. The coolant, however, also absorbs rust, dirt, and other debris in your engine. This debris is left behind in the radiator when the coolant recirculates through your engine. In time, this debris can build up and block the tubes and radiator hoses. These blockages will prevent your engine from cooling, and the temperature will rise. Our technicians can find and clear the blockage. Starting Problems If your engine has difficulty starting, these problems can be caused by four separate issues. You may have a blocked catalytic converter, a worn battery, a damaged alternator, or a faulty starter solenoid. The battery provides the charge to the starter solenoid to start your engine. If the battery is weak, it may not produce enough power to charge the solenoid. If the solenoid is damaged, it can't fire the starter motor, can your engine won't crank. The alternator provides power for all your car's electrical systems. A damaged alternator may not produce enough power to recharge the battery. Finally, a blocked converter will cause the exhaust fumes to flow back into your engine. These fumes will prevent the spark plugs from sparking, and your engine will die in seconds. Our technicians will find the cause of the problem and repair it. Electrical Problems Most of the systems in your car require electricity. The alternator is responsible for producing all the electrical power for your car. This component has a relatively long life of approximately eight years. As the alternator ages, however, it will produce less power. The lack of power will cause problems for a wide variety of systems. If there isn't enough power available, your computer will have to shift the available power as needed. This shifting power will cause random electrical glitches. Our technicians can test your alternator and replace it if it's failing. If you experience any problems with your engine, call us immediately at Crain Buick GMC.

Here at Crain Buick GMC, we know that warm weather brings with it plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy, such as going camping or relaxing at the beach. However, these experiences can suddenly become much less pleasant when you're stuck dealing with car air conditioning issues during the ride back home. Is your car AC not working? Check out this list of common car AC issues and what you can do about them. Leaking Refrigerant First on our list of common reasons why your car AC isn't working is leaking refrigerant. A refrigerant leak can occur at any point in the air conditioning process and so it's sometimes difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. However, the most common place where leaks are found is at AC unit hose connections. You may also see an oily substance accumulating around these connections, which is likely the source of the leak. Blocked Condenser Your GMC's air conditioning unit relies on a condenser to re-cool hot refrigerant. As part of the re-cooling process, the refrigerant is compressed using the airflow that comes through the front of your car while you drive. If the condenser is blocked by debris, then it will be unable to properly cool the refrigerant and your car's air conditioning system will continue to operate with overheated refrigerant. If this issue occurs, it will quickly cause the AC unit to only expel hot air. Broken Condenser If you've taken a thorough look at your condenser and there doesn't appear to be anything blocking it, then it's possible that the condenser may be broken altogether. There are several things that can cause your GMC vehicle to suffer from a broken condenser, such as a puncture from road debris going through the grill of your car and damaging the part or equipment failure. Contact Your GMC Dealer to Resolve Issues With Your Car AC Not Working Whether you've confirmed that one or all of these issues is responsible for your AC troubles or you're having trouble confirming the cause, contacting your local GMC specialists is a great way to get your AC problem solved. These specialists have experience with popular GMC models such as the GMC Terrain and can resolve AC issues quickly. GMC specialists can seal refrigerant leaks with specialized sealants and examine vehicle components for blockages and failures so that you can get back out on the road with your GMC's air conditioning restored to tip-top working order. As you can see, there are several reasons why your GMC's air conditioning may not be working. Fortunately, GMC specialists are standing by to assist you with your air conditioning woes. To resolve your air conditioning issues, give us a call at Crain Buick GMC today! Image via Pixabay.com by ninofficialphotopraphy

The 2022 GMC Canyon is a high-performance midsize pickup truck with excellent off-roading capabilities. The Canyon is available with an extended or crew cab and two bed lengths, so you can customize it to suit your needs. There's lots to love about this fantastic vehicle, and after reading our list of its top features, we're sure you will love it too! 5 Things to Love About the 2022 GMC Canyon Awesome 2022 Updates GMC has added a new edition to their lineup, the Denali Black. This head-turning vehicle sports a sleek black exterior enhanced by black assist steps, exhaust tips, and 20-inch rims. Inside the cab, the new Canyons are fitted with all-weather floor liners to protect your car after you have been out getting dirty in the great outdoors. Advanced Technology The GMC Canyon is fitted with an awesome 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that makes it safe and easy to access navigation, music, and more! Prefer to use voice commands? No problem! use the available built-in Amazon Alexa for hands-free access to maps, music, lists, and more. Charge your devices through one of four USB ports, or choose the available wireless charger if you have a compatible smartphone. Impressive Cargo Bed The 2022 model features E-Z-lift and a lower tailgate to give you easy access to your truck bed, which are an incredible help when loading up the back of your truck with heavy cargo. All keyfobs have a button to lock the tailgate for your convenience. Additionally, you can add the available spray-on bed liner to keep your truck in tip-top condition. The non-skid surface covers the entire bed and will keep your vehicle safe from scrapes and stains. Luxurious Interior When planning your next family road trip, you don't have to worry about anyone being uncomfortable in this super spacious truck. The crew cab model can seat five people comfortably, and each passenger will be delighted with their ample legroom. Higher trim levels feature heated, ventilated leather-appointed seating to keep you cozy and stylish simultaneously! Excellent Inclusivity GMC endeavors to make its vehicles accessible to everybody, including old and short passengers who typically struggle to clamber in and out of large trucks. The 2022 Canyon is fitted with 5-inch chrome assist steps with a non-slip coating to ensure ease and safety. If you are looking for a vehicle that can easily ferry you around town or through the woods, then you need to check out the new GMC Canyon. Perfect for hauling timber or taking the kids to school, this truck does it all. Come see us at Crain Buick GMC and take one out for a test drive! We're happy to answer questions you might have about this vehicle or any others we have in the showroom, and can assist you with financing if needed.

Your braking system is the hardest-working component of your car's safety mechanism, so it's important to make sure that it has everything it needs. Regular brake service with your GMC dealer is one way to guarantee that you'll always have stopping power and precision control, but for the safest and most cost-effective maintenance schedule, you'll need to get the intervals right. How Often Should You Book a Brake Service With Your GMC Dealer? A service will involve inspection of the braking system, including the brake pads, calipers, lines, and hoses. The pads and shoes are relatively inexpensive to replace and will prevent costly damage by protecting the metal components from abrasion, so you should always schedule a checkup before they have a chance to wear out. Time Your Service Regardless of your driving conditions and habits, the brake pads will eventually wear down, so it's important to stay alert to their condition. They should be checked at least once a year, and many drivers will schedule their service alongside their six-monthly oil change and tire rotation. If you'd rather watch your odometer than a calendar, then brake pads should last between 25,000 and 65,000 miles. This range is quite wide, however, so factor in the other variables when deciding on the best intervals for a checkup. Check Your Driving Habits Certain driving styles will put more pressure on the braking system than others, so be honest with yourself about your habits. If you rely heavily on the brakes to decelerate, or if you're prone to late, sharp stops, then you'll wear your brake components out more quickly and will need to shorten the wait between inspections. Evaluate the Conditions Some driving conditions will also shorten the lifespan of your braking components. Extreme high or low temperatures, heavy traffic with stop-start driving, steep mountainous roads, sharp turns, a heavy payload, and sandy, dusty, or wet driving conditions will all put more pressure on the brake pads, so adjust the timing of your service to reflect this. Stay Alert to Warning Signs If things aren't right in your braking system, your vehicle will let you know. Strange noises are one clue, with a screeching, squealing, or low rumbling sound when the brakes are applied. A vibrating or spongy pedal, a sluggish response when braking, or the loss of that precision control during maneuvers are other signals that you need to schedule an appointment immediately. As well as protecting your own safety and the health of your vehicle, a suitable brake maintenance routine will give you peace of mind. Life's too short to worry about things that can be easily fixed, so call us at Crain Buick GMC and trust us to give your vehicle's brakes the very best of care.

Protect your vehicle by knowing the five signs your GMC or Buick needs a new catalytic converter, or “cat.” At Crain Buick GMC, our service team has seen it all, including plenty of broken cats. Discover the most common indications of a bad cat below. 5 Signs Your GMC or Buick Needs a New Catalytic Converter From Your GMC Dealer 1. Check Engine Light If your check engine light turns on, it could mean one of many things, including a broken cat. Sometimes, a check engine light comes on because there is a problem with one of your sensors, rather than the cat itself. Other times, the sensors detect an actual problem with the performance of your cat. If you take your vehicle to your local GMC dealer, a service technician will look for trouble codes. The codes will tell the technician precisely what happened to your vehicle. 2. Failed Emissions Test Another sign that your cat called it quits is a failed emissions test, although it could mean one or more other problems instead. Generally, a vehicle fails an emissions test for one of three reasons: Vacuum leaks Broken oxygen sensor Faulty air injection system While a vacuum leak may cause a bad cat, a bad cat will not lead to a vacuum leak. That said, if a cat's oxygen sensor proves faulty, that could lead to a failed emissions test. 3. Rattling Noise Upon Ignition Most of the time, a rattling noise indicates a problem with your cat, especially if it occurs during startup and then becomes fainter as you drive. However, you should not ignore this symptom. The cause of the rattle usually involves broken pieces of mesh inside your cat. Once you start your car, the broken mesh pieces start rattling around in there. An arrhythmic beat represents a dead giveaway that you have broken mesh inside your cat. 4. Exhaust Smells Like Rotten Eggs When your cat works as it should, it converts stinky hydrogen sulfide into odorless sulfur dioxide. However, when your cat begins to break down, you may begin to smell something like rotten eggs or a stink bomb. If other drivers start indicating to you that your car's exhaust smells bad, you may need to schedule a service appointment for your malfunctioning cat. 5. Reduced Power One of the earliest symptoms of a bad cat involves reduced power output from your engine. This problem may manifest as a lower top speed or slower acceleration than normal. If you notice your engine seems sluggish in general, you might have an issue with your cat. Does your trusty GMC Sierra exhibit one or more of the previous five signs? If so, it could mean that your cat finally gave out. Call Crain Buick GMC at 501-329-6825 to schedule a checkup with one of our service technicians.

You'll love the 2022 Buick Encore if you're looking for a small SUV with outstanding performance, flexibility, and style. The five-passenger Encore combines modern technology and comfort with a sleek design. Check out the exceptional features of this fantastic SUV. Get to Know the 2022 Buick Encore New Performance for 2022 The Encore offers even better performance in 2022. The new 1.4L Turbo I-4 direct injection engine has more power than ever, with 12 percent more horsepower than last year. The Encore's engine produces up to 320 horsepower paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. And with front-wheel drive standard and optional all-wheel drive, you have the power and performance to take you where you need to go. The Encore's AWD system improves traction and handling, especially in bad weather. The available intelligent all-wheel-drive system constantly monitors all four wheels and automatically transfers power to each tire as needed. In addition, StabiliTrak gives you additional control over your vehicle on icy and wet roads by intervening when you need it. MPG With high gas prices, it's important to save money when you can. The 2022 Encore is fuel-efficient and offers an EPA estimated 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway on the front-wheel-drive model. For all-wheel drive, the Encore provides 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Interior The Encore's spacious interior is great for transporting a group of kids and all of their gear. With seats that can be folded down to open up more space, you'll have the flexibility to configure the cabin based on what you need. With 48.4 cu. ft. of maximum cargo space, you can conveniently fit any groceries and luggage. Comfort & Convenience The Encore features Buick QuietTuning with active noise canceling technology designed to keep the cabin sealed from unwanted noise. By absorbing sounds outside the vehicle, laminated acoustic glass and triple door seals guarantee a quiet ride. The Encore also offers push-button start, making it easy to get going without fumbling with your keys. Just push the button on the key fob, and your car starts with ease. Technology The Buick Encore offers an excellent high-resolution 7-inch touchscreen that is easy to navigate. With features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can conveniently make calls and access the apps on your smartphone. You'll be able to respond to messages, stream podcasts and listen to music without taking your eyes off the road. You also can access the navigation system for directions to your favorite restaurant. Alexa is also built-in, providing you with even more convenience. Use your voice to request the latest weather information or play music and you can also easily set up reminders and check your calendar through Encore's infotainment system. You can even add items to a to-do list with just voice commands. These are just a few of the many features available on the 2022 Encore. Stop by Crain Buick GMC for more information about this impressive SUV and set up a test drive. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Accidents do happen, but no one wants to be a part of one. The most important thing is that both you and anyone riding with you are safe, but you also want to be sure your vehicle gets back to working order quickly: and for that, you need a quality collision repair. The technicians, technology, and parts at your Buick GMC dealer can restore your vehicle to its original state. Below we explain how Buick repair works for drivers unfamiliar with the process. How to Get a Quality Collision Repair: Visit Your GMC Dealer Arrival and Check-in Our repair center is a safe place to come if you're shaken up by the experience of being in an accident. Once you're relaxed, we'll ensure we have all of your car's details so we can check it in. Also, we will need the details of your insurance company if they will arrange for the repair. As soon as we receive the information, we can take you home, and you can relax knowing your vehicle will be taken care of. We will visually inspect your car while you are in our offices. To determine if damage needs to be repaired, our technicians will examine the damage carefully and critically. A complete visual inspection is accompanied by a careful report on what needs to be done to fix your car. Disassembly Following the visual inspection of your vehicle, it will be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris. It will be easier to determine the degree of damage after this washing. After that, the damaged parts will be removed. The car's structural integrity will be carefully examined. Using paint details collected by our paint team, we can match your GMC or Buick's color perfectly. We will send you or your insurance company a detailed breakdown of the repairs and their cost. We will also work with your insurance company to expedite the process. Repairs Upon receiving approval from either you or your insurance company, we will assemble the necessary replacement parts. A time estimate for the completion of the repairs will be provided to you and you will be kept informed of the work progress. Any damage to the body of your car will be repaired by our technicians and corrosion protection will be applied. Painting This stage involves assembling all the parts that need to be painted and preparing the parts and the vehicle for painting. Using the right color will allow the new parts to blend seamlessly. All parts and sections of your car requiring it will receive a basecoat and clear coat application. Reassembly Your car will be equipped with the new parts it needs. Upon completion of your car's assembly and testing, our quality control team will inspect it to verify that all repairs have been completed to GMC Buick standards. Collecting Your Buick Repair From the Dealer When your car has passed quality control, we will contact you to notify you that it is ready to be picked up. As soon as you approve the work and confirm your satisfaction, your car will be ready to drive away! If you need repairs to your car, visit us at Crain Buick GMC to get the help you need.

It's easy to overlook your car air filter when having maintenance done on your vehicle, but it's essential to keep your car running efficiently. The air filter in your engine allows air to circulate without debris making its way into places it shouldn't be. When your air filter starts to wear out, it can impact your car's performance and damage your engine. Read on for the 3 main benefits of having your air filter replaced by your local GMC dealer. 3 Benefits of Having Your Car Air Filter Replaced by Your Local GMC Dealer 1. Extends Engine Life Perhaps the most important long-term benefit of replacing your vehicle's air filter is that a fresh, clean air filter can help prolong the life of your car's engine. Proper airflow is essential in keeping your engine running smoothly, and the air filter is the last line of defense between that engine and the dirt and grit of the outside world. Without a clean and intact air filter, dirt and debris can make their way into your vehicle through the air intake. Even tiny particles and grains from outside can wreak havoc if they get into your car's combustion chamber, leading to wear and tear that could end up being much more expensive to repair than the cost of a new air filter! 2. Increases Fuel Efficiency A new air filter can increase your car's fuel efficiency and even help improve acceleration. When an air filter gets too clogged to properly function, it won't allow adequate airflow into your car's engine, which causes your car to work harder than it should to keep that air circulating through the engine. If you've noticed that your car's mileage has been decreasing, or you're experiencing slower-than-usual acceleration at stops, it might be time to start thinking about getting a new air filter installed! 3. Reduces Emissions As mentioned above, clogged or damaged air filters can reduce the amount of air circulating through your car's engine. This can change the air-fuel balance in your engine, which can cause misfiring and overall poor performance from your vehicle's combustion system. If your air filter is clogged or worn enough that it has gotten to this point, you may also notice your car rough idling, and your "check engine" light may turn on. This condition has a direct effect on your car's exhaust emissions. This is why a clogged or worn air filter can lead to dirtier emissions and a more polluted environment around you. Changing your air filter regularly can help to keep your emissions down and lead to a cleaner, greener ride for your vehicle! With these three points in mind, you can see why having your air filter replaced regularly should be an important part of your vehicle's maintenance schedule. Luckily, this is something your local dealership can have done for you in no time! Come on down to see our team at Crain Buick GMC for your air filter replacement needs, and keep your car running safely, efficiently, and cleanly.

The periodic repositioning of your vehicle's tires is essential to minimize uneven tread wear. A tire rotation at your Buick GMC dealer will ensure that all four tires wear down evenly and improve your car's overall performance. Best of all, your tires will last longer, saving you money down the road. How Often Should You Get a Tire Rotation at Your Buick GMC Dealer? Rotation Intervals and Signs Your technician will rotate your car's tires every time you take your vehicle for an oil change. Typically, tires are repositioned every 7,500 miles based on the model you drive and the type of tires on your car. If your car's tires are not regularly rotated, there are signs to look out for that warn you a rotation is necessary. Don't ignore the signs to avoid further damage to your tires that could result in you having to replace the entire set. Uneven Wear If your vehicle's front tires are not wearing down at the same rate, and one tire is more worn than the other, ask your technician to switch your car's tires. It also applies if one side of a front tire is more worn than the other. If the wear is extreme, it's best to ask your technician to inspect the tire to determine if a replacement is necessary. Irregular Wear A rotation is necessary if the front tires appear more worn than the rear tires. Ask your technician to switch your front and rear tires as soon as possible to ensure even wear between all four tires. Vibrations Uneven tread wear can cause vibrations when you drive over 45 miles an hour. If you feel vibrations through your steering wheel, ask your technician to rotate your vehicle's tires, but to be safe, get them balanced, and have the wheels aligned as well. Rotation Patterns Your technician will remove your vehicle's tires and change the position of each tire on your to a different place to ensure even wear and extend the life of the tires. The type of vehicle your drive will determine the rotation pattern. Your technician will know the correct rotation pattern for your specific make and model. Front-Wheel-Drive Vehicles The technician will rotate the front tires to the back. The rear tires will be switched around and mounted to the front. Rear-Wheel-Drive Vehicles On rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the rear tires move forward. The front tires are crossed over to the back. Four-Wheel-Drive and All-Wheel-Drive Vehicles The right front and left rear tires are swapped. The left front and right rear tires exchange places. The Benefits of Repositioning Your Tires Routine rotations will ensure even tread wear, increase performance, and extend the life of your tires. Most importantly, it will keep you safer on the road and save you money. Another benefit of regular rotations is thorough tire inspections that include pressure level checks. The technician will also inspect your tires for cracks and bulges. For additional information on rotations, speak to your technician or check your owner's manual for the rotation intervals and the correct rotation patterns for your specific vehicle. Visit Crain Buick GMC today, and our certified technicians will perform a thorough tire inspection and rotation to promote even wear, saving you money and keeping you safe on the road.

A nightmare for any driver is jamming on the brakes, and nothing happens. Your brakes are vitally important, as they are the only way to control and stop your car. While you can shift into a lower gear to reduce speed, it takes extra time and any delay can be the difference between a possible accident and a serious accident. As your GMC dealer, your safety is important to us, and these are signs you need a brake repair. Failing Brakes? Get a Brake Repair at Your GMC Dealer Today Spongy Brakes When you step on the brakes, you should feel resistance, and the harder you press the more resistance. This is normal and means your brakes are working correctly. If you press the brakes, and they feel spongy and have little resistance, you have a brake problem. This problem may be an air bubble in the system that prevents the brakes from working. Another possible cause is a malfunctioning master cylinder. Our technicians will check and repair the problem. Spongy brakes can be dangerous. A poor brake response reduces your control over your car and makes it more difficult to stop when you need to. Call us right away, and our technicians will find the cause of the problem and repair it. Screeching Noises When you use the brakes, the calipers push hard against the wheel rotors and this causes the wheels to stop moving. The calipers have brake pads attached, and this allows the rotors to stop faster due to friction. The friction material on the pads wears out over time, and when the pads have worn thin enough they reveal a metal piece in the fibers. The metal piece in the pads will contact the rotor the next time you use your brakes, and the metal on metal contact will give a loud screeching sound. When you hear this noise, it's time to get new brake pads at your dealer. Grinding Noises Brake pads that aren't replaced as soon as they start to make screeching sounds will continue to wear. When all the friction material has worn away, the metal of the brake pads will directly strike the wheel rotors. A horrible grinding sound when you brake is caused by the brake pads gouging into the wheel rotors and damaging them. Our technicians can easily replace the brake pads if this happens, but we will also check the damage to the rotors. Depending on the level of damage, we may be able to repair the rotors. If the damage is severe, we would have to replace the affected rotors. Bad brakes put you, your car, and other drivers in potential danger. Your safety is very important, and if you experience any signs of a brake problem, call our service department immediately at Crain Buick GMC. Our factory-trained technicians will examine your brakes and find the cause of the problem. You'll be able to drive again with confidence, knowing your brakes work perfectly the first time, every time.

An alternator is a mini generator that converts mechanical power from the turning crankshaft into electrical power. Thus electrical power is stored in your car's battery and is also used to power your car's electrical systems. As with any mechanical part, an alternator can wear out. When you need an alternator repair in Conway, AR, as your GMC dealer and Buick dealer, we can repair or replace it for you. 5 Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your GMC Dealer and Buick Dealer in Conway, AR A Dead Battery The click, click sound of a dead battery is a very disheartening sound. A battery lasts up to 5 years on average, and then it needs to be replaced. If your battery is relatively new and it suddenly dies, this can be a clue that you have a problem with your alternator. One of the alternator's jobs is to charge the battery, but if your alternator isn't working properly the battery won't be recharged and will die. Hot Metal Smell A burning smell in your car is never a good sign. There are many possible causes for the smell, and one of these is a worn alternator. Your alternator will usually last for about 8 years, but as it degrades it loses some of its electrical generating capacity. The greater the electricity demand, the harder the alternator must work to generate it. An overworked alternator will produce a smell like burning metal. Burning Wiring Your alternator works perfectly, but the electricity it produces has to be supplied to the components that need it and this requires wiring. Wires run through your car to transmit power to the various components. The wiring is plastic-coated and designed to last, but it can wear and fray due to damage or environmental factors. Damaged wiring will not transmit power effectively, and will start to heat up. The smell of burning wire means we need to replace any damaged wiring ASAP. Random Electrical Problems Your car has a large number of components and devices that require electricity. A single electrical issue may be no cause for concern especially if it doesn't reoccur. When the alternator starts to fail, however, it can't generate all the electrical power your car needs, and this means that choices have to be made. Your alternator will allocate power to devices, and then need to readjust the supply to service another component. This shifting of power causes random electrical glitches. Noisy Engine Sounds Every driver is familiar with the sounds their car's engine makes, and any odd sound is immediately noticeable. A damaged alternator can make grinding, whining, or humming sounds. These unnerving sounds may be caused by a damaged bearing, a misaligned belt, or a worn pulley, and they are signs you need to visit our service department. If your alternator is failing, we may be able to repair it or we may need to replace it. Call us at Crain Buick GMC and our technicians will fix the problem for you.