Portland Auto Repair

Taillights may not seem important, but they are needed for road safety. They let other drivers know where your vehicle is in low light, fog, or heavy rain. Brake lights built into the taillight assembly also signal when you are slowing down or stopping. When taillights stop working, it can put you at risk of being rear-ended and can also lead to traffic citations. At Portland Automotive in Portland, CT, technicians often see drivers come in with lighting problems that could have been prevented with timely maintenance. Burned-Out Bulbs The simplest and most common reason taillights fail is a burned-out bulb. Like any other light, taillight bulbs have a limited lifespan. Over time, the filament inside can break, leaving you with one or more non-functioning lights. In many cars, it’s easy to check this by turning on the lights and inspecting the rear of the vehicle, or asking someone else to press the brake pedal while you look. Replacing a bulb is relatively inex ... read more

Modern vehicles are equipped with dashboard warning lights designed to keep you informed about potential issues—one of which is the power steering warning light. This light, often represented by a steering wheel icon or the letters “EPS” (Electric Power Steering), indicates that there is an issue with your steering system. If your power steering light turns on unexpectedly, it doesn’t always mean immediate danger, but it’s a sign that your car should be inspected promptly. Power steering problems can compromise your ability to steer safely and smoothly, especially at lower speeds or during emergency maneuvers. What the Power Steering Light Indicates The function of the power steering light depends on the type of steering system your car uses. Most modern vehicles are equipped with electric power steering (EPS), while older models may use hydraulic systems powered by engine-driven pumps. When the light turns on, your vehicle’s onb ... read more

If you're a Connecticut driver, chances are you've received a reminder about your vehicle's emissions test. While it might feel like a routine chore, the emissions test plays a critical role in keeping the air cleaner and your vehicle running efficiently. Understanding what this test includes, why it matters, and how often it’s required can help you avoid surprises and stay on the right side of state regulations. Why Does Connecticut Require Emissions Testing Air quality is a major concern for densely populated areas. Connecticut’s Emissions Program was established to help reduce harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere. Cars and trucks are among the largest contributors to ground-level ozone, a major component of smog. Emissions testing ensures that vehicles on the road meet state and federal pollution standards, which contributes to healthier air for everyone. Connecticut is one of several states that actively monitors vehicle emissi ... read more

Getting a new car key used to be simple. A locksmith could cut a blank to match your original, and you were back on the road. But today’s vehicles are equipped with electronic systems that require more than just a physical copy. If you’ve had a new key cut and found that it doesn’t work, it’s likely because the key still needs to be programmed. Modern vehicles rely on transponder technology and electronic communication between the key and the car. Without proper programming, your vehicle may not recognize the new key, leaving you stuck with a blank that fits in the ignition but can’t start the engine. How Modern Car Keys Work Most cars built since the early 2000s include an anti-theft system that requires electronic verification from the key. These keys are equipped with a small chip, called a transponder, that sends a unique signal to the vehicle's immobilizer system. If the signal matches what the system expects, the car starts. I ... read more

Your car can communicate problems in many ways—warning lights, strange noises, and sometimes, unfamiliar smells. While some odors might be temporary and harmless, others can point to mechanical issues, fluid leaks, or safety concerns. Knowing which smells to take seriously can help you act early and avoid more costly or dangerous situations. Here are six smells you should never ignore if you notice them inside or around your car. 1. Rotten Eggs or Sulfur Smell If your car smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, there’s a good chance the problem is related to your emissions system—specifically the catalytic converter. This component helps neutralize harmful gases, and when it’s failing or overloaded, it can produce a strong sulfur-like odor. A faulty oxygen sensor, engine misfire, or unburned fuel in the exhaust system can also lead to this smell. Since your emissions system is directly tied to fuel efficiency and engine performance, it’s im ... read more