Some states require regular safety inspections on cars and trucks. At The Plains Tire & Auto, we are well-equipped and trained to perform these inspections. Our technicians can also perform multi-point inspections on your vehicles as needed.
These are some of the inspection services we offer.
VA State Inspection Station
VA state inspection stations are privately owned, but government certified, inspection stations throughout VA. The Plains Tire & Auto is a VA state inspection station. For your state inspection needs visit or call our auto shop at 540-253-5251.
Exhaust Related FAQs
What is a rough idle?
A rough idle describes a vehicle's engine with spark plugs that are not firing correctly when the vehicle is in park, with no gas applied. Most vehicles idle between 600 and 1,200 RPM and should hold their idle speed consistently.
Can you put any exhaust on any car?
Not every exhaust will fit every car. Compatibility isn't just about car make and model; engine specs, optional extras, and even trim levels can influence the fit. Make sure you consider not just the make and model, but also engine details, fancy extras, and even trim levels before getting your heart set on a shiny new system.
Why is smoke coming out of my tailpipe?
The most common reason for thick smoke coming out of your car's exhaust pipe is the fuel to air ratio in your engine is too rich. This means that the fuel injectors are either adding too much fuel or that the intake valves aren't letting enough air in. This is caused by a cracked or leaking fuel injector, a failing O2 sensor, or air filter that needs replacing.
Catalytic Converter FAQs
Can I drive with the catalytic converter light on?
A bad catalytic converter can increase your car's exhaust emissions, but it does not prevent you from driving. At The Plains Tire & Auto we know this is true. A clogged catalytic converter will eventually affect the performance of your vehicle in The Plains, Marshall, Delaplane and Middleburg. Exhaust gases will not escape easily and create an increase in exhaust gas pressure. The buildup in pressure can lead to high-cost repair bills in the future.
What can cause a catalytic converter light to come on?
A catalytic converter helps reduce harmful engine emissions from entering the air by breaking down the harmful byproduct of internal combustion into less-harmful compounds. If your catalytic converter isn't working properly the check engine light will come on. The most common causes for a catalytic convert warning light to display are a clogged, cracked or melted converter. Sometimes the problem isn't the catalytic converter at all but an exhaust leak letting gases out of the system before it reaches the converter.
What happens to your car after the catalytic converter gets taken?
Removing the catalytic converter has a dramatic impact on your vehicle's acoustics. A deep, loud roar replaces the engine's usual hum, intensifying as you accelerate. Additionally, expect rough transitions and sputtering sounds when shifting gears, indicating impaired performance and potential engine damage.
To learn more about our Inspection and Emission services, call us at 540-253-5251 or request a quote by clicking below:
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Partners
What our clients are saying about us
We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!
On Monday, March 12th, my husband and I were traveling on I-66 when our low tire alert came on showing a tire was quickly losing air. We got off the highway, hoping to find a gas station and came upon The Plains Tire & Auto. After inspection, the technician told us that the tire could not be repaired and they did not have a tire there that would work. They quickly made phone calls looking for a tire for us. They found one about 1/2 drive each way to get it. Someone went to pick the tire up, brought it back and it was quickly mounted on our car. They even printed out directions for us to travel home from there. I can't say enough good things about everyone we encountered in The Plains. Kind, helpful, understanding to our situation, etc. We will probably never need to visit The Plains Tire & Auto again, but would highly recommend it to anyone. They were a lifesaver to 2 Pittsburghers, a long way from home. Thank-you!
My car died on the interstate a few miles away, and my car was towed here at 4PM on a Friday. They we so fantastic and helpful. They got me right in and got me the information I needed to make decisions quickly. They bent over backwards to ensure I was taken care of. Such great friendly people, and as terrible as it is having car trouble, I am thankful that Brandon and the Plains Auto team were the ones who were able to assist me.
