Computer Systems Repair

Our experienced team offers computer maintenance and repair services on all makes and models and will ensure that your computer system is serviced and cared for accordingly.
 
Car computer repair is oftentimes about adapting to everchanging technology, meaning your car’s computer software may just need to be updated or reprogrammed, oftentimes allowing for repairs to be done without replacing expensive components.

History of Computers in Cars

In 1968, Volkswagen was the first manufacturer to install a computer in their vehicles. They installed an EFI, or Electronic Fuel Injector, which is used to inject fuel into a manifold for better fuel economy. The EFI is controlled by the ECU, or engine control unit. The ECU functions to keep the engine running at optimal performance. As emissions became more problematic for the environment, car manufacturers began implementing the use of computers in their cars; however, it wasn’t until the 80s when computers were being developed for automotive use economically.

The Four Types of Car Computer Systems

Safety – Helps protect drivers and passengers during sudden emergencies.
  • Airbags – A bag that deploys, inflates, and then deflates upon impact to help prevent injuries during a crash. 
  • Antilock Brake Systems – Prevents the wheels from locking.
  • Adaptive Headlights – Swivel depending on the direction a car is heading.
  • Traction Control – Limits the amount a car’s wheels spin and restores traction when a car slides.
  • Electronic Stability Control – Prevents a car from spinning out.
  • Emergency Braking – Increases brake pressure in case of emergency.
  • Blind Spot Monitoring – Warns drivers when other vehicles are located in their blind spot.

Performance – Not to be confused with aftermarket performance chips, this internal system helps power your vehicle without producing exorbitant amounts of harmful chemicals.
  • ECU – Monitors emissions using sensors.
    • Air Pressure Sensor
    • Air Temperature Sensor
    • Engine Temperature Sensor
    • Knock Sensor
    • Oxygen Sensor
    • Throttle Position Sensor
  • Automatic Transmission – Uses sensor to determine when a vehicle needs to shift gears without the user having to do so manually.
 
Diagnostic - Also called an OBD or On-Board Diagnostic System. A self-diagnostic system that uses sensors to warn users of problems with their vehicles.
 
Convenience – Systems not integral in protecting a driver or their passengers. These computers provide a sense of luxury and ease.
  • Automatic Windows and Doors – Older vehicles used roll-down windows, which required passengers to turn a crank to roll the windows up and down.
  • Climate Control – Collects data to adjust the air conditioning (AC) based on the temperature inside and outside of the car.
  • Entertainment Systems – May include GPS, Bluetooth capabilities, WiFi, video players, and, in older models, CD and DVD players.

Common Computer Problems

The main computer system in a car is the ECU, which can produce the most prominent computer-related issues.
  • Check Engine Light is On
  • Stalling Engine
  • Car Won’t Start
  • Loss of Acceleration
However, other problems may also affect the ECU itself.
  • Dying Car Battery – The ECU will start to fail if the battery is about to die.
  • Corrosion on Components – The ECU can malfunction if its components become corroded.
  • Incompatible or Bad Starter – Your car’s starter must be compatible with its ECU, otherwise the sensors won’t be able to communicate with the ECU.
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Family Owned Since 1972

Gordon Lentz opened his first auto repair shop in 1972. Trained as a mechanical engineer. His first exposure to the automotive repair business came in the early 1970's, when he was selling storage systems to muffler repair shops. He could see room for improvement in a lot of the shops he visited. He took a chance; quit his job, and invested his life savings in building his own auto service center. Today, Lentz Auto Repair is still family owned and operated, guided by the same simple mission that started over 45 years ago: “treat our customers as we would like to be treated and provide quality products at fair prices.”

Warranty Information

Auto services are performed on non-commercial vehicles and are accompanied by a limited warranty.  If a warranted part fails to perform during the time of ownership, simply return to any LENTZ USA Service Center with your receipt for repairs. Family owned and operated since 1972.  Senior and student discounts available.

The Lentz USA service team is ready to help you
• Brakes
• Mufflers
• Exhaust
• Springs
• CV joints/axels
• Steering suspension
• Air conditioning
• Engine repair and replacement
• Tune up
• Computer diagnostic equipment
• Alignment services (2 and 4 wheel)
• Transmission repair
• Oil changes
• Custom pipe bending
• Street rods
• Brake and anti locks
• Front and rear end suspension
• Shocks and struts
• Tire rotation
• Safety inspections
• Belts and hoses
• Starters
• Motor flushes
• Alternators and batteries