What is the Overheating Telling You?

The wintertime is the time for freezing temperatures, snowballs, and hot cocoa. It is also the time to make sure your car is in good condition to make it through those months. Contrary to popular belief, a car can experience overheating in the winter. What makes a car overheat in the winter? If your car is running hot, the best time to assess the problem is before your car becomes immobile. There are several things you can check to determine the cause of the excessive heat and if you know what to do about them, you will not have to worry about being stranded on the side of the road.

Check Your Coolants

The first thing you should do is check your coolant levels. If your levels are low, then this may be the cause of the overheating. The radiator is not an easy piece of equipment in which to check fluid levels, but you will be able to see, with some stretching, how much coolant you have. Do not just depend on the amount you see in the overflow reservoir. Make sure that the car is completely cold before you check this part of the car. If the level is low, try adding more coolant. You can add a mixture of one part coolant to one part water, or you can buy the pre-made coolant that can be poured straight from the container. If you have to keep adding fluid, or you notice bright green or bright red liquid on the ground underneath your car, then you may have a leak. Take your car to ASE master mechanics to have the cooling system tested for leaks. 

An Idling Problem

If you notice that the car is overheating while you are idling, then you may have a problem with the cooling fan. The cooling fan is part of the cooling system and it provides air circulation across the radiator when the car is traveling at low speeds and when it is idling. Sensors that regulate the engine temperatures control the fan. It can adjust the needs of the engine if there is an addition of weight in the vehicle. When it senses that the engine is working harder to pull extra weight, it provides additional ventilation for the increased heat given off by the engine. You can check the fan by turning on the air conditioning. The fan for the air conditioner and the cooling fan are powered by the same source.  

The Need for Speed and Feeling the Heat

If you are overheating while you are traveling at high speeds, you have a different set of problems. You should make sure that you are getting proper airflow and coolant circulation. Make sure that there are no kinks, holes, or twists in the hoses. If you find any of those things, have the offending pieces replaced. Check for any holes or clogs in the radiator. You can have your mechanic take care of this for you, as cleaning out a clogged radiator is tedious work. You would have to remove the radiator and completely disassemble it before you clean it. You should also check for a stuck thermostat. If the thermostat is stuck in the closed position, it can block air from getting to the engine. If the top of the radiator hose does not feel hot when engine warms up, then the thermostat is stuck closed. If you suspect that it could be multiple things that are causing your car to overheat, you should take it in for a winter safety inspection by an ASE master mechanic.

Fast Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Your Car

With the winter months approaching, people are looking for ways to save money and cut their energy usage. Winterizing your home can help you save money on heating bills, and it is a wise investment in your home. You can have the same relationship with your car. There are some fast and quick things you can do to help you save money at the pump and to increase fuel efficiency in your car. Minor changes to the outside and inside of your car as well as your driving habits can make a difference on your car and your wallet. You will not only save money on fuel costs, you will also save money on car repair costs.

Outside of the Car

A common item of the car overlooked by many people is the tires. Make sure that you have the right tire pressure for your car and tires. You will usually find a sticker on the inner doorjamb of the car that has the tire size and inflation size recommended by the manufacturer. Do not overinflate the tires because it could make the car more difficult to handle from the excessive vibrations. Over-inflation could also cause the tires to burst. You should make sure that all tires have the same tread pattern and if you replace the tires, replace all of them at the same time. Make sure that the tires have proper alignment so that your steering will be more precise. You should also check your suspension system and make sure that your shock absorbers, springs, and struts are in good condition. Check your brakes and make sure you have good brake pads installed. Replace any worn pads and check for any leaks or weak spots in the brake lines. Check your headlights and make sure they provide good lighting for driving at night and during inclement weather.

Inside of the Car

Under the hood, check the air, oil, and fuel filters. Make sure that they are clean and in good condition. A dirty air filter can increase the acceleration time of a car. Any increase in acceleration means an increase in fuel needed for the increase in speed. The air and oil filters should be changed each time you change the oil. A dirty fuel filter will allow dirt and debris to clog the fuel injectors. It is a good idea to make sure that your gas tank is over half-full at all times during the winter. If the tank is full, it will keep sediment from clogging up the fuel lines. 

Think Light and Go Slow

Driving at a slower speed not only saves fuel, it can also prevent an accident. Limit your idling time as much as possible and do not let your car warm up. Newer model cars do not need any warming up and older cars only need a warm-up of no longer than a few minutes. Letting a car idle and warm up is wasting fuel and it is not necessary. Try to keep your loads light. A heavy load, such as heavy furniture or towing a small watercraft, makes the engine work harder and uses more fuel. The only items that should remain in your car are the things that are in your winter safety kits, such as a few blankets, first aid kit, and flashlights. The small tasks you can implement right away will have savings in your wallet and a good running car in your garage.

Car Winter Safety Kits

Winter is just around the corner and some parts of the United States have already experienced snow.  When the temperatures are freezing, it is no time to be stuck on the side of the road in a car unprepared.  Thus, now is the time to start thinking about a winter safety kit for your car.  What should be packed in a car winter safety kit?  What items are essential to include?

Useful Snow Removal Tools

Snow removal tools aren’t just useful at home, but can be equally as useful in your car winter safety kit.  A shovel is handy in winter safety kits to dig a path for immobile tires, uncover a car that has been snowed under, or to take snow off of the car trunk to reach tools included there.  An ice scraper and brush can be smart to include in a winter safety kit to chip ice off of windshields and side windows.  This increases your visibility, decreasing the possibility of having a winter-related accident and allowing you to get the car unstuck from a winter weather situation.  Jumper Cables are already stored in most cars, but it is a good idea to double check that your car jumper cables are still in the vehicle before the first snow storm hits.  Regular tools such as a hammer, chisel, and tire iron can be useful in winter weather, just as they are in fair weather.  So, don’t forget to include tools and a flashlight as car winter safety kit options.  

Common Sense Items for Car Winter Safety Kits

There are common sense items that should always be stored in cars, but which become even more important when included in car winter safety kits.  One of these items is a cell phone. During a winter storm is the wrong time to be caught without a cell phone to call for help.  If there is an accident or someone is hurt out in a winter storm, a first aid kit becomes an important addition to winter safety kits.  A first aid kit is a common sense item that should always be included in your car glove compartment or trunk, but becomes even more important in a winter dilemma.  Items that provide warmth are also necessities in winter safety kits.  Boots, gloves, a hat and a blanket can make being stranded in a winter storm much more bearable, livable, and survivable.  This is why all four items are listed as necessities on a car winter safety kit check list.  Non-perishable food is also a smart addition to winter safety kits.  Choose food items that can be stored in the car all winter season and not spoil or explode.  Food and drinks are necessary if you are stuck in a snowdrift or on the side of the road for any amount of time.  

More Creative Items for Car Winter Safety Kits

Some items for a winter safety kit might seem less obvious, but can be equally as important to winter safety.  Flares and reflective triangles are useful tools to make sure that stranded cars are visible and buried cars are recognizable.   Both flares and reflective triangles can drastically increase the safety of stranded drivers and are thus essential to winter safety kits.  If your car gets stuck in the snow, traction material such as cat litter or sand is a winter safety kit essential to help get the vehicle unstuck.  Maybe less well known and one of the most creative items in a possible winter safety kit is a coffee can furnace.  Components needed for a coffee can furnace include a metal coffee can.  Many coffee manufacturers have gone to a plastic container, so if a metal can cannot be found, a paint can may be substituted.  Into the can, insert a thick roll of toilet paper with the cardboard tube removed and pour a large amount of rubbing alcohol over the paper.  Finally, a lighter or matches will be needed to start the coffee can furnace.  As with all combustible items, please use caution and light only in a well-ventilated area. 

What the Check Engine Light Could Mean

The check engine light has been the bane of existence for many car owners. When this light comes on, there is no need to panic. In the winter months, you may feel a little stressed at the thought of experiencing car trouble while traveling. Once you learn the true purpose of it and the possible meanings of its illumination, you can dispel many fears and you will be able to respond with the appropriate course of action. 

What is the Light For, Anyway?

The check engine light is a part of the onboard diagnostics system in your car. Cars are built with computers that monitor and control the performance of your engine, the mixture of fuel used, and the speed of the engine. It also monitors ignition timing and the shifting of the automatic transmission. Every problem that can occur with the car has its own series of codes that are in the computer. When a problem occurs, the check engine light will come on and the computer generates a code for the problem. Your ASE master mechanic can connect your car to their computer and read the code message. They use that message to determine which car repair to make. The light will illuminate for things such as a loose gas cap, worn out spark plugs and spark plug wires, malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or a blown head gasket.

What to Do When the Light Comes On

If the check engine light comes on, you need to check your car to determine the cause. The light does not always mean that you have a serious problem. When the light comes on, check to see if the light is blinking or remaining steady. If the light is steady, then your problem is minor. It could mean something as simple as your gas cap is loose or missing. If this is the case, just tighten the cap until you hear an audible click. If it is missing, you will be able to find one at your local auto parts store. A loose or missing gas cap will cause you to lose fuel and expel gasoline vapors in the air. If the light is blinking, then it means that you have a serious problem and you should take care of it immediately. A blinking light could mean that you have low oil pressure, which could cause overheating. If that happens, you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and shut off your engine. If you have AAA, you can call a tow truck and pull out your winter safety kits. In the winter, it is very important to pay close attention to the lights on your dashboard.         

Time for General Car Maintenance

If you notice your check engine light coming on, you should take your car to your mechanic. He has the proper tools and training for engine repair, fluid checks, and other vehicle repair and maintenance work. Your mechanic will also have access to a computer that will diagnose the codes generated by your car’s computer and will be able to perform the car repairs needed. He will know if you need minor repairs such as a fuel injection cleaning or major repairs such as faulty electrical systems. Regular maintenance will prevent many problems and keep you from seeing the dreaded check engine light.                                                                

What is a Bumper-to-Bumper Inspection?

With the winter approaching, you may be thinking about having a bumper-to-bumper inspection done for your car. You search the directories for reliable, skilled, and knowledgeable ASE master technicians to perform the service for you, but you may be curious about all of the steps that are included in this comprehensive inspection. You should be aware of all of the systems that will be checked on your car so that you will able to understand and relate to the results you receive from your inspection. You will also be able to make better decisions about any car repair you may need. 

Why is it Called a Bumper-to Bumper Inspection?

An auto inspection is very important for the life of your car. Whether you are thinking about purchasing a particular car or you have owned your car for years, you should make it a point to have a complete inspection done to monitor the health of your car. A comprehensive inspection would include services such as oil changes, fluid checks, brake check, steering and suspension checks, and a tire inspection. It would include checks to the engine, steering, and transmission as well. Virtually every system that is responsible for the operation of your car between and including the headlights and tail lights are checked to make sure they are in proper working order. 

Why is it Important?

A complete inspection is important to the health of your car and your finances. When you have your car checked, you will be alerted to any potential problems that may arise in the near future. If you have the problem remedied in time, you could save a lot of money on expensive car repairs down the line. For instance, if your car has been overheating, it could mean that you have low oil pressure, which is very damaging to your car. An inspection prior would have revealed the low oil pressure problem, and the large repair bill would have been avoided. An inspection will also reveal if you have the proper tire pressure and fluid levels. Transmissions, the costly-to-repair component of the car, would greatly benefit from an inspection. Regular inspections would help you monitor the health of the transmission, battery, alternator, steering and suspension systems. You will be able to determine when it is time to replace the part and make any minor repairs. Regular car maintenance and some alterations to your driving habits, such as driving at reduced speeds, can increase the fuel efficiency.

Anything Else to Know?

It does not matter the age of the car; all cars need to undergo a bumper-to-bumper inspection to make sure they are in optimal operational condition. If your car is healthy, it will last longer and you will save money on fuel costs. Your mechanic can connect your car to a computer and run a diagnostic check. The computer will let the mechanic assess the computer system and all of the systems that it monitors. Warning codes will alert the mechanic to any problems that need attention and relay those to you. You will see the benefits of your inspections when you are able to operate your car during the cold winter months with no issues and save money at the same time. 

The Importance of a Tire Inspection

Tires get very little respect until they are flat. These round rubber circles enable us to propel forward or backward while we sit inside a metal box that sits on top of those circles. Many people will perform oil changes, windshield wiper replacement, and other general car maintenance tasks, but will neglect a tire inspection. A tire inspection is an important part of regular maintenance, and even more important during the winter months.

What is Done During an Inspection?

A tire inspection involves more than just a look at the tires to make sure that they are still inflated. When you check your tires, you should make sure that you have the correct air pressure. Auto parts stores, and stores with an auto supplies section, have a tire pressure gauge you can purchase. It will tell you how much air you have in your tire in pounds per square inch, or psi. The tire pressure depends upon the brand, type, and size of tire you have. Consult your car manual or product information sheet to determine how much air pressure should be in each tire. Then you can inflate or deflate each tire as needed.  You should also check the tread on your tires. During the winter, driving on ice and snow can be treacherous. You will need a good tread to maintain traction on the road. If you see that the tread is wearing down or has already worn down, replace the tires. If your tires show wear on one side of the tire but not the other, you should have your tires rotated. 

More Things You Can Do for Your Tires

While you are inspecting your tires, you can also use the time to check your brakes and brake pads. Brake pads are pads that attach to the calipers in order to provide smooth stops. When the pads wear down, your brakes will begin to grind against each other. The metal-on-metal contact will damage your brakes and cause them to crack. You will then need to replace the entire rotor, which can be expensive. Your brakes are part of a system, so you should also check the brake fluid when you are performing your fluid checks. It is very important that you check your braking system before the winter weather and include this task in your winter safety check routine. Many accidents in the winter occur because the braking system was not up to par for safe driving in the winter. 

Why is it important?

Having a tire inspection done before the winter will help you to keep your car in good shape. Your brakes are the physical mechanisms in an entire system that stops your car when you press the brake pedal. A regular inspection will reveal any potential small problems that may arise before they become big problems that will result in big repair bills. You can also increase your fuel efficiency by having properly inflated tires. A tire alignment will help your car to remain steady on the road and not pull to the side. Your car will be easier to handle in traffic and easier to control. For the winter, you should include tire inspections as part of your regular winter general car maintenance.

Efficient Ways of Wintering Your Car – Winter Safety Checklist

Frost, chills, snow, and wind accompany winters making your car performance take a serious nose-dive if you do not properly winterize your car. However, according to the press release by the ASE and the experts at AAA, if you take the initiative to ensure that you have a winterization check done on your automobile, your car could remain healthy and happy all winter. Here are a few items to consider ahead of time when having us perform a safety inspection before winter hits.

Winter Tires for Effective Performance on Snowy Patches

While experts have been toying with the idea of introducing wide tires and better tread distances for more efficiency on dry and frozen roads, you can make sure your tires are inspected well in advance with proper tread gauges to ensure they do not disengage or break down. If you live in snowy areas, you might want to try snow tires, or their equivalent, ‘all weather tires’. Along with tires, you should also have your brakes checked and their compatibility with the tires, steering systems that ensure proper maneuvering on the roads, and whether the rubber in your tires is sturdy to last all winter without cracking or getting deflated. Tire pressures are also an important concern.

Checking Your Windshield Wipers Before Winter

Windshield wipers have to bear the brunt of snow, frost, precipitation, and other problems with respect to winter temperatures. As such, the slope of the windshield is also assuming varying patterns thanks to the streamlining of car structures to achieve faster speeds. Thus, ensure that your windshield wiper components are durable and last throughout winter without failure. Another concern when it comes to windshield wipers is that the wiper fluid is frozen all the time. Of course, you can get it back to normal with springs and lever pushes, but doing that every day is an excruciating task. Instead, we urge you to opt for the windshield wiper fluids specially designed to spray fluid on the windshield even in minus temperatures without being frozen in the process.

Ensure Your Batteries And Electrical Systems Are Winterized Thoroughly

Electrical systems are also known to perform poorly in winter courtesy the low temperatures and the intense problems that snow precipitation offers them. It’s a good idea to have your battery checked for an adequate amount of cranking amperage.  The electrical system of your automobile must be optimized to function with efficiency even when the temperatures are low. Whether it is the actuator linkages, the alternator outputs, or the battery lights, ask one of our mechanics to carry out a thorough test on all of them. We also recommend a winter safety kit to be included in the car, for possible use during the event of a snow blockage or stoppage on the road. Do not let winters harm your car, and follow the general maintenance car checks to make the most of the chillness in your car.

Trying to Comprehend The Check Engine Light

A ‘Check Engine Light’ is usually accompanied by a dreaded feeling. These messages, also called a MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp), are a signal to indicate that your vehicle needs maintenance or another part of your vehicle isn’t properly attached. The Check Engine Light usually warrants a trip to the car mechanic and could either mean a costly engine repair, like an issue with your cam shaft, or your gas engine cap becomes too loose for comfort. Unless you are well versed in the dynamics of your car engine, you must not endeavor to disassemble your engine. You could end up destroying a perfectly working part, or disengage a few connecting engine belts and wire. The only thing we ask you to do is take note of the warning signals that pop up in your dashboard and ensure that you make an appointment with us to have your vehicle looked at.

Deciphering The Exact Check Engine Light

Often, drivers mistake a normal routine maintenance code in their dash board, which indicates fuel refilling necessities, oil change requirements, or a typical engine check, to be a MIL code. These lights normally are grouped in the ‘service engine’ lights on your dashboard. You must make it a point to refer to your manufacturer’s guide book for more details on how to distinguish the lights that come up on your dash board. Check engine lights are typically featured in red, yellow, amber, or orange, depending on the severity of the issue with your vehicle. 

Do Not Ignore the Light

According to a recent survey, more than ten percent of all cars feature MIL lights in their dashboard and more than thirty percent of drivers ignore the Check Engine Light.  Usually the reason behind this, is in an attempt to ‘squeeze in as many miles as possible’ out of their car until it is completely broken down. This is very detrimental, considering the amount of gas your vehicle uses, the amount of toxins your vehicle emits into the atmosphere, and the overall safety of your car. When you see these signs in your dash board, do not panic and do not delay a general car maintenance appointment with us. Maybe you might have to pay a buck too many for your engine repair, but if you don’t, you might end up losing your life in the process.

When You See the Engine Light Flashing

One of the most common reasons for the MIL to flash in your car could be a loose gas cap. You must first check if that is the case. If your lights are still steady after the gas cap inspection, your engine is reportedly facing a bigger problem. There is a data sheet available to our mechanics about the various MIL codes and the problems they stand for.

What to Expect from a Vehicle Safety Inspection

Whether you are going to drop off your vehicle at our auto repair shop, or the state has told you that you are to have a vehicle safety inspection performed on your vehicle, chances are you want to know what you are in for. After all; it’s your car. You are the person who has to drive it to and from many places each week. So you will want to know what it is in store for and, ultimately, what you are in store for. So here are the things that you should expect from your vehicle safety inspection. 

What is the Vehicle Safety Inspection All About?

First off, understand that a vehicle safety inspection is much different from a general maintenance performance, or a routine isolated inspection. These types of inspections are just as common, but they are not required, nor are they as thorough. A vehicle safety inspection is a very thorough process that is designed to check how safe your vehicle is not just for you to drive, but for you to drive on public streets with other driver’s on the road. Thus the vehicle safety inspection is just as much about other drivers’ safety as it is about yours. These inspections are performed to ensure that your vehicle meets federal standards for safety of operation. 

What Can I Expect to Have Checked During a Vehicle Safety Inspection?

You can expect to have literally every aspect of your vehicle checked to determine if it meets the proper safety requirements that you expect it to have.  We’ll pay special attention to your brakes, steering and suspension systems, cooling systems, battery and electrical systems, wheel alignment, and fluid levels, including leaks.  If any of these systems are compromised, don’t hesitate on fixing them.  The winter season is brutal on cars and if any of these systems fail or aren’t working properly, it could be a major problem when you’re on the road.  On top of looking at these systems, your windshield wiper blades, headlights and brake lights, and tires will be looked at as well.  Every part of your vehicle we look over, is for your safety and should be taken very seriously if a repair is needed.

What Happens if I Fail My Vehicle Safety Inspection?

If the vehicle safety inspection is a product of your own want, meaning you scheduled it and you are paying for it with out state involvement, then nothing will happen. Your vehicle will obviously not pass the inspection, but you will receive no penalties for this. However if you are state ordered to have a vehicle safety inspection and you fail it, you can expect to be told you can no longer drive your specific vehicle on the road until the problems are attended to by one of our mechanics. In some cases, the repairs will not be very costly—they can be a simple brake pad change or some other trivial, daily mechanic woe. However, in other cases the repairs can be costly, and thus you should be prepared that you may have to spend quite a bit. 

The Tire Checking Check List

Want to check your tires in order to ensure that they are sufficiently filled with air, but not sure exactly how you can do this? Your tires are a very important part of your vehicle; they are its conduct to the ground. With out tires, your car can not drive the way it was intended to. Many over look their tires, as they are such a common part of a car. However this is a huge mistake. With this check list, we will give you  all of the information you need to check your tires yourself, and do it will. 

Check the Tread. The tread of your tire is what gives it its grip. 

Treads come in many different designs, however there are no “better” or “best” treads recognized. Thus, you are not checking for a specific look; you are checking for how well the tread has been retained. Usually, the tread of your tire can be checked with a penny. Place it head down so that the top of Abe Lincoln’s head is in the groove. The tread of your tire, if sufficient, should reach to at least his eyes. The balder your tire is, the less it will be able to help you control your vehicle on the read. If your tires are too bald, forego the rest of the list and get them replaced before continuing. 

Check the Tire Pressure. 

The tire pressure is the air reading, known as psi, if your tire. All cars will differ, but most psi readings for car tires should be between 32 and 35. To check the proper reading for your car, look in your vehicle owner’s manual. In it you will find the proper tire pressure for your specific make and model. Do not use the pressure reading on the tire itself; it is the maximum psi that the tire will hold, not how much it should! Once you find the proper psi for your vehicle, either use a pressurized motor pump or go to a gas station to fill up your tires accordingly. Once finished, be sure to remember to replace the air caps on the tires!

Check for Tire Damage.

This is yet another often overlooked thing. People take for granted that a car weighs upwards of over a ton and can drive over most surfaces. They do not tend to remember that its tires are made from rubber. Rubber can and will gouge and crack over time from rough usage or sharp objects. Check for cracks on your tires by (1) looking at the tires and (2) running your hands over the tires. Be sure to do this when the tires are cool, not after a long drive! Next, check for gouges in the rubber. These can be caused by glass, nails, bits of concrete—many things. The problem with gouges is that some may breach the tire and be letting out air very slowly, which can over time cause problems with your vehicle’s alignment by unbalancing the pressure of all four wheels and causing the vehicle to lean imperceptibly to one specific corner.  

Knowing How The Brakes On Your Vehicle Work

You have probably been driving since the day you were able to procure your license. And like most people, once that day came, you never looked back. But have you ever stopped to wonder what makes your vehicle tick? Namely, how the brakes on your car are able to, quite easily, keep you safe day after day? Well, if so, you’re in luck, because brakes really are not that complicated. 

The Brake Pedal: Making Friction Your Friend

What happens when you step on your brake pedal? Well, a few things, actually; there is a small chain of events that leads to your car slowing down and, eventually, coming to a full stop. But in order for all of this to happen, there needs to be friction. Yes, friction. In the case of stopping your vehicle, friction is your friend. When your foot presses on the brake pedal, your brake clamps the brake pads within its housing on to the wheels, causing enough friction to, eventually, stop your vehicle. The harder you press the break, the more friction you apply and the faster you will come to a stop. With an old drum brake, too much friction can be bad; the closed housing of the brake retains heat, and when it builds up too much, the brakes stop being effective and can no longer grip the wheel. But a disc brake’s open faced design allows air to keep the brake cooler, allowing for better and more consistent braking. But how does the brake know when to squeeze? The brake fluid, of course!

The Brake Pedal: Fluid for Thought

Brake fluid is a fluid that passes through a tiny hose in to your brakes when the brake pedal is pressed. This fluid allows the brake pads to clamp on to the wheel. Without brake fluid going through the line, there would not be enough pressure for the brakes pads to get purchase. In other words, brakes with very low brake fluid are tantamount to pressing dry sponges to your wheel. Brakes with no fluid simply do not work, hence why a severed brake line is highly dangerous, and very scary. When you step on the brakes, and the brake pads clamp, you do more than slow your car; you also activate the brake lights. Just like the brake pads, the brake lights will have no chance of working without brake fluid. Why? Because there will be no pressure exerted on the brake. In fact, if you step on a brake in a vehicle that has no brake fluid in the line, your foot will easily mash the pedal to the floor. 

Keeping Track of Your Brakes: Brake Safety

Brake issues are not for the average vehicle owner to diagnose. Without special training, it is extremely easy to misread the signals of an issue with your brakes. Your brakes should be serviced yearly, and you should go in to your local mechanic for a free brake check every six months. If you experience any strange or unusual brake problems, such as slow braking, go in for a brake check as soon as possible. 

Your Vehicle’s Steering and Suspension

Not all vehicles are created equally, and no one knows this better than a person who has either driven multiple vehicles, or owned multiple vehicles. Some cars handle better for certain drivers than others. Some cars handle certain terrain better than others. But how does this happen—after all, shouldn’t all cars strive to work in every condition? Well, yes and no; while all cars should strive to handle well overall, certain factors make it impossible to perfect it all. 

Steering and Suspension: What it Means

What is steering? Well, we’ll tell you one thing; it isn’t simply spinning a wheel around in circles to guide your car. Steering goes deeper than that. Your car’s steering refers to its ability to correct for both terrain and direction. Some vehicles have more sensitive steering than others. This is due to the parts used in the steering column. Some vehicles have stiffer handling. This is also due to the parts used in the steering column. However neither type of steering is right for every driver; some prefer a looser wheel, while others prefer a more resistive wheel. It all depends on you as a driver. But suspension is different. Suspension is, in its most basic terms, your cars capability for correcting for, and handling different types of terrain. Average vehicles tend to have a more neutral suspension, perfect for driving around town and on the highway. Off road vehicles, however, tend to have higher suspension, and better overall shock absorption capabilities. This allows them to handle better over rugged terrains. 

How Brakes Affect Steering and Suspension

Brakes affect nearly every part of your vehicle, from fuel efficiency to, yes, steering and suspension. Sensitive breaks are great for off road driving, as they allow for better stopping and overall maneuverability. The more pressure you have to exert to come to a full stop, the harder it can be to handle rougher terrain, such as dirt or mud. Sensitive brakes are less necessary, however, for city and highway driving, although they are no hindrance in any respect, and can actually help a lot in busy city areas where stopping often and quickly is common. 

Steering and Suspension Car Repair

Car repair is necessary in order to maintain a vehicle. If you want it to run well and do so consistently, and for a long time, you will definitely want to bring it in for regular “checkups.” Getting your suspension tweaked once in a while can increase, or help to maintain, your vehicle’s shock absorption capabilities. Having your steering fixed to your liking can also vastly improve overall vehicle performance. In the end, it is not necessary to have any car repair done more than once a year, as far as your steering and suspension are concerned. As long as you keep on top of your brakes, and supply them with fresh pads as they wear down, your suspension will be less susceptible to regular wear and tear—that is, if you aren’t driving around in deep mud all the time! Keep an ear out for problems, and listen to your vehicle when it tells you it has had enough—which it will usually do through any number of strange noises. This will keep it in great running order for some time to come. 

Check Engine Light Problems You Might Face

There are few things as frustrating in the world than when the check engine light illuminates on the dashboard.   This is a feature that seems to come on for no reason and gives you no real indication of what the mechanical problem may be.  The engine will seem to be running the same as it did before the light came on. Most people immediately think a large auto repair bill is coming down the line. This article is to inform all drivers about the most common causes of a check engine light and most of the time this doesn’t mean disaster is eminent. This light is most often triggered by the computer system in your car. So unless you see some visible distress you can go to an auto parts store and most often they can diagnose your problem by plugging into your dashboard and reading your computer.  Diagnosing the check engine light is usually a free service. 

Faulty Gas Cap Often Culprit

When it comes to problems this is a pretty easy one to fix. Many times the cap has just not been put back on tightly enough.  This is a problem because fumes will leak out and that can affect the entire fuel system. That means your gas mileage is going to go down and there will be an increase in the emissions your car emits. This is an easy fix just pull over at the earliest, safest spot you come to. Simply check the cap and if it is loose, tighten it. That should solve the problem. If it is not loose then proceed for further evaluations.  Replacing a gas cap is easy and inexpensive and tightening the cap is free. There can be quite a lag time between tightening the gas cap and the light going out.  So be a little patient and your fuel efficiency should return in short time. 

Diagnostic of Your Vehicle Can Reveal Problems

When a diagnostic of your car’s computer is done, it may read that you need to replace an oxygen sensor. As time passes the sensors are often covered with soot or ash from the fuel burning process. If a faulty oxygen sensor is not replaced the car repair may become significant. The actual replacement is easy and quick and will be a lot less expensive in the short run. This diagnostic can also reveal a problem with a catalectic converter malfunction. A problem in this area would be hard to diagnose on your own and could lead to costly repairs. 

Other Causes of Check Engine Light

Spark plugs are vital to starting a car. When a spark plug is faulty there is a misfire in the plugs. You will know this is happening by feeling a little jolt in the acceleration of your car. Spark plug replacement should be a part of your regular vehicle maintenance. The bad news is that faulty spark plugs are going to happen. The good news is that they are easy and inexpensive to replace. If the spark plugs aren’t replaced then damage could be done to a vehicle or a vehicle won’t start.

A Car and Its Alignment

Tire alignment is an important aspect of ensuring that a car operates properly. Some people think of a tire alignment as nothing more than taking a car into to the repair shop to spin the tires a few times to make sure they are straight. Although this is part of what is involved in tire alignment, there is so much more. The importance of a tire alignment cannot be denied. 

Why a Tire Alignment is Necessary?

Proper tire alignment ensures that everyone on the road is safe. Imagine if no one ever checked their engine oil, their brakes or their tire alignment. This would result in chaos, because the cars on the road would begin to shut down, overheat, or even crash. Safety is the number one reason for maintaining a car, and therefore tire alignment is necessary for maintaining the car’s tires. 

Cars work hard to quickly take people to various destinations. All of this hard work should be rewarded with a nice car wash every now and then, and a little pampering. One of the kinds of pampering a car needs is a tire alignment. When a car doesn’t get pampered or have proper tire alignment, it puts stress on the other parts of the car, making these parts have to work even harder. Eventually, the other parts will get worn out and the car will no longer work. Therefore, a car’s tires need to be aligned in order for it to have the longest life possible. 

What is a Tire Alignment?

Essentially, when a tire is aligned the wheels are balanced. When a car gets its tires aligned it begins with the angles of the wheels being. They must be aligned in a perpendicular position to the ground. It is also necessary to make sure that the tires are parallel to one another. The purpose of these adjustments is to make sure tires drive straight when on a straight and level road. When tires are not balanced it will cause some shaking in the car’s steering wheel. This can cause the vehicle to veer off course and possibly land you in a ditch. Tire alignment involves three well-known measurements called the caster, camber, and the toe. These are the focuses of the necessary adjustments.

Tire Alignment Measurements

The measurements used when completing a tire inspection are called the caster, camber and the toe. According to ASE master technicians, the caster is the tilting of the highest point of the steering axis either forward or backward. A forward tilt is negative and a backward tilt is positive. All wheels must have a positive caster. Next, the camber is checked. This is the tilting of the wheels from the vertical. The camber can have a positive or a negative reading, but the reading must be a balance of both. Finally, the toe is a measurement of how much the front and/or the rear wheels are turned in or out from a position that is straight ahead. This reading ensures that the tires are parallel. 

So, to ensure the safety of the driver and other drivers, including tire alignment in proper car maintenance is vitally important.

Why Checking and Topping off Fluids is a Good Idea

Your car needs certain fluids in order to operate properly. Fluid checks are very important to the longevity of your vehicle. Checks should be completed at least every time that the vehicle is brought in for general car maintenance. When completed during these times, the ASE master technicians will be able to top off all of the fluids to the proper levels. Doing so will assure that the vehicle will operate properly at all times. There are certain checks you can do on your own so that you will be able to assure the proper working condition of your vehicle. Here are a few suggestions of what you can do to keep the fluids at the right levels.

Checking Oil in Between Oil Changes

The oil in your vehicle is vitally important many of the moving parts in the engine. It provides lubrication to moving parts so that they will not seize up or create a lot of friction that heats up the engine. To check the engine oil, you need to locate the dipstick in your engine. This is normally a loop you can put your finger in to remove the dipstick. Pull the stick out and wipe it clean with a paper towel or oil towel. Replace the dipstick to get the oil on the end. Remove it again to check the oil level. There are three lines which includes the low line, normal line and max line. Maintaining the oil levels can keep the engine running smoothly.

Checking Levels for Coolants

Coolants are highly important to make sure that the engine is running smoothly. The coolants help to keep the engine from overheating. Checking the coolant is easy once you have learned to find the reservoir. Reservoirs often have a dipstick which is attached to the lid of the reservoir. Some of the reservoirs allow you to see the level of the coolant on the side of the reservoir. If the coolant is low, it could mean that there is a problem with the engine. Remember that this also serves as the antifreeze so that you can keep your engine from freezing in the winter. Never use water because it will freeze fast and burn off easily which can cause major engine problems.

Checking Windshield Wiper Fluid

Cleaning the windshields is easy to do with the right amount of windshield wiper fluid. The fluid allows you to remove the dirt and grime from the windshield because of the cleaning solution combined with the windshield wiper blade. The reservoir for the fluid is found close to the windshield and holds a blue liquid inside. This only needs to be filled relative to how often you use it to clean the windshield with. The windshield wiper fluid is not very expensive to purchase, but can help you to see the road easier. Simply poor the fluid into the reservoir until it is filled. You can use the fluid as often as you want to so that it is easy to see where you are going. This is especially important whenever you are on a long trip so you will be able to see where you are going.

The Many Reasons To Call AAA

Becoming a member of the American Automobile Association, AAA, is one of the most important decisions a driver can make. It doesn’t matter how old you are or how much driving experience you have, there is no more reliable company for a flat tire, a tow or a dead battery charge than AAA.  Nobody plans on breaking down or having an accident.  When the worst occurs it is a great peace of mind to be able to pick up the phone and dial a number and have help coming to the scene any time of day.  There are many reasons that AAA is great and this article is going to explain them to you.

Tires are Flat

How many times have you been driving down the road and you hear the very distinctive sound of a tire going flat? This can be a frustrating experience because of the time and effort involved. When you are a AAA member you pull over to a safe spot and wait for the local tow truck to come to your assistance.  Many people can change a tire themselves, but if you are on your way to work, or to a special event, changing a tire may soil your good clothes and you may not have the appropriate time to change, especially since you have a flat.  You can have the professionals do it, by the time you mess with a jack and fight with the lug nuts and roll a spare out, the AAA rep could probably be there, change the tire and have you on your way. A family plan provides a particular peace of mind to those who want their families protected and taken care of.  You can’t be everywhere, if they get a flat tire you want them protected. The AAA reps can also check the tire pressure in the other tires and make sure that all drivers will be safe.

When You Need a Tow


There may be nothing as scary as being stuck on the side of the road in a vehicle that won’t start or run like it should, unless it is having a loved one stuck in that position.  Your car may have a problem with the brakes or overheating because of a coolant problem. It doesn’t matter where you are AAA tow services will find you and/or your loved ones and get you to safety. It is a small price to pay to have AAA on your side in an emergency. Even if you are in an accident and it has rendered your vehicle so you can’t drive it, the tow services will get your vehicle to the garage of your choice and out of harm’s way. The last thing you want to worry about if you have just been involved in an accident is where your car is going to be towed to.

When You Need Directions

One of the services that AAA has provided for many years have been their trip tickets, which provide you with maps and directions to get anywhere you want to go. Even in today’s world this is a simple thing to do because they have new computer applications that work on your phone or tablet to help guide you where you want to go.  The many benefits of membership in AAA will keep you on the road safely with as few problems as possible. It doesn’t matter if you are driving a monster truck or hybrid vehicles.

Save Money on Fuel with Tire Alignment

The gas prices always seem to be going up with no end in sight. This makes getting the best fuel efficiency a high priority. You do not have to drive with the AC and lights off to improve your fuel efficiency. Simply making sure that you have proper tire alignment will help to make sure you are spending less at the pump. Getting your tires aligned can only be completed by a service professional, but you can take steps to make sure your tires will remain aligned for a longer period of time so you can save more money at the gas station. Your car will not constantly be pulling one or more tires as a result of maintaining the alignment.

Checking the Tire Pressure

Tires have a tendency to lose air as they get older. Even newer tires can have bad valves that will cause them to lose air faster. Sudden changes in temperature and other environmental factors can also play a part in altering the amount of air in tires. If one of your tires is consistently lower in air than the rest, it can cause you to pull in the opposite direction of the tire with less air. The more this occurs, the more your alignment will be off. Taking the time to check your tire pressure whenever you fill up with gas will help to alleviate any problems tires low on air can cause.

Tighten Suspension Systems

More cars have suspension systems that are not adjusted properly than most people realize. If you find you go over a dip or bump and your vehicle is still bouncing afterwards, your suspension is very off. This can cause the wheel alignment to be off as well. As you go over a bump or dip, the wheels might leave the ground for a second. As the wheels return to the street, they may be going in a slightly different direction. The sudden change can cause the alignment to be off. Transversely, if the suspension is too tight, any slight bump in the road can send you careening off course. Make sure to have the suspension checked if you feel every bump in the road or you feel you are bouncing too much.

The Effects of Steering and Suspension

Steering and suspension is connected by more than just the jarring effects of going over a pothole when your suspension is not tuned correctly. Simple quirks in the power steering system can cause your alignment to go off. The longer you are struggling against a misalignment, the worse the problem will become. Make sure that the power steering fluid is being checked in the fluid checks. If this fluid is off, it can make fighting a misalignment even harder to overcome. A stiff steering and suspension system can cause major problems not only in controlling the vehicle for regular driving. It will exacerbate a problem that is caused by going over a pothole in the road. Maintaining the system through regular checks can help to alleviate the problems that can occur. Following these tips can help in reducing the amount of gas you are wasting from a misalignment.

Getting More Power from Fuel Injection Cleaners

As you step on the gas in your vehicle, you deserve to have the power to get you off of the line or to accelerate as you see fit. Making sure that you are able to get the power you need is possible when you are keeping the fuel systems clean. Taking the time to purchase such things as fuel injection cleaners can help to alleviate any problems in the fuel systems to allow you get the power you are looking for. To make sure that the fuel system is getting the help it needs to stay powerful, you need to pay attention to changing the engine oil regularly as well as making sure that any necessary auto repair is being handled as soon as possible.

Using Fuel Injection Cleaners

It is easy to get the help you need for better power with fuel injection cleaners. These are cleaners which combine with the gasoline in your tank to get rid of any deposits you may have in the fuel system. Using the cleaner is easy to accomplish. Simply pour the cleaner in with your next tank of gasoline and it is possible to remove all of the deposits which might be in the fuel system. Make sure that you are adding this in along with good gasoline that is free of any additional cleaners. Using the same gasoline you normally use will help to make sure that the cleaner is able to get through the system quickly and do its job.

How Oil Changes Help 

The best way to make sure that the engine is working properly is to make sure that the engine oil is as clean as possible. Investing in oil changes allows you to make sure that all of the moving parts in your engine are working properly. Keeping clean oil in the vehicle will make sure that when the fuel system is clean that the cylinders will be able to efficiently burn the gasoline being fed into the system. Every vehicle has a general car maintenance schedule to follow which includes oil changes. Following this helps to make sure to get more power as you are stepping on the gas.

Important Auto Repair for Power

The engine needs to work properly to make sure that the fuel injection cleaner you are purchasing will get the desired effect. Keep in mind that the engine needs to be able to deliver power to all of the different components of the engine. Doing so, translates the power from the gas pedal throughout the engine. Investing in regular fluid checks can help to alleviate many of the engine repairs which might normally be necessary. Always make sure that any engine repairs that are necessary are being completed quickly and efficiently. Small problems will only become large problems if they are not addressed immediately. Make sure to only bring your vehicle to ASE master technicians. They have the knowledge to make sure that the engine is working properly so you can get all of the power you deserve whenever you are driving in your car. Following these steps can help to make sure you are getting more from your engine.

Getting the Safety You Need with Better Air Bags

The safety of your vehicle depends on a few different factors. Other than the seat belts in the car you will also be able to depend on the air bags to provide protection. These have gone well beyond just the air bags which are on the passenger side of the vehicle. You will be able to count on air bags which drape in front of the windows as well as those which are provided to shield you from the windshield. The more air bags you have in a vehicle, the easier it is to get the protection you need whenever you are in an accident. Here are a few of the things you should know about the air bags in your vehicle.

Curtain Air Bags

The glass which flies around in an accident is a major problem as it can cause cuts in the skin or it can also cause damage to eyes. When with the use of safety glass, this is still no guarantee that you will be free from harm whenever you are in an accident. Making sure that you are using curtain air bags will help to make sure that you are being protected from direct impact with the glass or with the frame of the car as well. These deploy from just above the frame of the door and in front of the windshield to offer protection to the driver.

Front Dash Air Bags

The air bags which are deployed in front of the driver and passenger are intended to prevent whiplash and also to stop people from being ejected form vehicles. These have helped to prevent many people from being killed on impact. It is important to make sure that when in an accident that you are not using your arm across the steering wheel at all. This will help to prevent any kinds of problems in which you will encounter a broken hand or a broken wrist. As long as you are keeping your hands at 10 and 2 on the wheel, you will have a better chance of preventing anything from being broken. If you are making sure to sit an arm’s length away from the steering wheel, it will help to ensure your safety should you happen to be in an accident.

Repacked Air Bags

Air bags can be very expensive to replace. Many people have been getting around this cost by purchasing repacked air bags. These have been used and repacked after being inspected for damage. The air bag is pressurized and ready for use if you should get into another accident. The important thing to remember whenever buying these is that not all companies know what they are doing when packing these. There have been reports of improperly packed air bags deploying when they were not supposed to. By researching the companies you are buying from, you will have a better chance of getting the air bags which will operate correctly whenever they are needed. The money saved can help you to buy the curtain air bags which have been deployed as well to protect yourself and your passengers if you should get into another accident.