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Why It May Be Time For Wheel Alignment

July 11, 2020 by admin

When you drive your car off the showroom floor, everything about it is in perfect condition.

From the moment it hits the open road, your car is at risk. Slam on the brake pedal and it impacts your braking system. Hit a pothole, and it can knock your wheels out of alignment.

The trouble is, most of the damage done to your car isn’t something that impacts it right away. Instead, it accumulates over time.

That pothole in the middle of the lane you always drive in to work? Yep, every time you hit it, it continues to impact your car. Bolts can loosen. Joints can come apart. And wheel alignment? Yep, that happens gradually too. Every bump you hit, every pothole you hit a little too hard, every curb you scrape and bump, it all adds up over time.

Why is wheel alignment important to my vehicle?

Wheel alignment is important for one very obvious reason: driveability. If you want a smooth ride as you drive to work, drop the kids off at school, or take your family out on the open road, a periodic wheel alignment is mandatory to keep your car working properly. Of course, there are other reasons too.

If your wheels aren’t connecting with the road properly, it also means your tires are being impacted every mile you travel. If a wheel is bent, it pulls the tires away from the road in certain spots. That means uneven wear. It also means the lifespan of your tires will be shortened.

When your wheels are in proper alignment, the entire suspension system is working together, keeping you pointed in the right direction. Without movement, you move in a straight line. But when wheels are out of alignment, that balance can shift and turn. Have you ever felt a pull to the right or left when you’re moving down an open stretch of highway? That’s a problem with your wheel alignment. It can cause other systems more wear as you overcompensate for the problem.

All of these extra problems can cause one more failure – gas mileage. It takes more energy to overcompensate for problems throughout your vehicle. If you start to see a slip in mileage each time you fill up your tank, it might be a wheel alignment issue.

How will I know if I have a wheel alignment problem?

Wheel alignment isn’t something you’ll find a dashboard warning light for. Instead, you’ll only discover you have a problem in one of two ways.

1. Regular checkups. If you let one of our mechanics check out your car periodically, we can find and correct issues before they become bigger problems.

2. Watch your tires. The easiest way to tell if you have a wheel alignment problem is to watch your tires for uneven wear. The tires should wear evenly across the tread. If you notice excessive wear on the inside of the rear tires, for example, it’s an indicator you may need an alignment. It also could be a sign of too much weight in the trunk.

How will my driving be impacted if the alignment is off?

Watching for uneven wear on your tires isn’t the only sign of an alignment problem. There are other noticeable signs you can watch for as you drive.

When your vehicle pulls to the right or left as you drive. You’ll tighten your grip on the wheel as you feel your car slowly moving one way or the other.
A steering wheel that looks crooked instead of straight. As you drive, your steering wheel should return to its original position. If you have to turn it slightly to keep it in the lane, it may be a sign.
Your tires may squeal and make noises. That high pitch squeal is because the wheels aren’t connecting the way they should.

Now what?

What it takes to calibrate a vehicle’s wheel alignment

You can’t look at your wheels and know you have a problem. It requires precision to ensure your wheels are calibrated perfectly, giving you the smoothest ride possible.

When you bring your vehicle in, alignment is performed using advanced computerized alignment equipment. Weights can be mere fractions, bringing all four wheels into alignment.

Our technology:

Measures all four tires and sets the alignment according to manufacturer’s guidelines. The more accurate this process is, the smoother your ride. It’ll also improve your gas mileage.
Provides an accurate reading. You can’t eyeball this, which is how it was performed years ago. Today’s technology is better than ever, meaning we can get accurate readings to ensure you’re driving out of our garage with the best alignment possible for your vehicle.
Understands the guidelines for your vehicle. A Prius will have different requirements than a large SUV.

How long does it take for a wheel alignment?

Like every service we perform, it depends.

If everything goes smoothly, you can be back out on the road shortly. But as we dive in and discover problems, it may lead to other issues.

Each wheel may have up to three alignment angles that need adjusting. They’re called caster, camber, and toe. Three alignment angles – four wheels – that means up to 12 adjustments needed for servicing. You can’t drive in, plug it in, and go. It may take a little time.

Because you have four wheels, all four must be adjusted at the same time. Performing one wouldn’t give you the right calibration to ensure your entire vehicle is driving the way it should. Instead, it’s essential to adjust the front wheels to be at a proper angle to ensure the back wheels operate correctly too.

An alignment check inspects both the steering and suspension systems. It will ensure your tires are pressurized correctly, and are still in good operating condition. It will adjust camber, caster, and toe angles, as needed. That may mean new parts and labor charges, depending on the issue. And finally, a road test. We want to drive it, to ensure it feels good when connecting with the road.

Sometimes your warranty requires occasional wheel alignments to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Check with your manufacturer, to ensure you stay within compliance.

Car Maintenance Items Before Your Road Trip

July 7, 2020 by admin

What will the summer of 2020 be remembered for? Recovering from a pandemic will be high on the list. Roadtripping is also going to be one of the most popular activities for families.

Forty-six million Americans say they will jump in the car and visit someplace on their bucket lists during the summer. If the coronavirus has canceled your big traveling plans, and you’re looking to stay a little closer to home, roadtripping just makes sense.

Right now, a lot of us are looking for a little escape. After being locked up at home with no place to go, even if you love your home, it’s looking a little closed-in right about now. The open road, the wide open skies, and new-to-you territory sound good right now.

But in order to make it there safely, it’s important to ensure what you’re driving gets you there without trouble.

Has your car been sitting in the garage, with only trips to the grocery store keeping it running?

Has your pickup been parked, with no place to go?

Are you sure they’ll get you where you’re going, especially if you’ll be driving into the middle of nowhere, without a service station in sight?

Car trouble is bad anytime it happens. But when your car doesn’t start in the office parking lot, it’s a minor inconvenience. If your car dies on the open road, it can be downright dangerous.

Before you leave home, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure your car is the last thing you’ll have to think about as you’re having fun with the family.

How do I know if my car will make a long trip?

If you have a brand new car, you might not think twice before hitting the open road. But what if your car is three years old? Or five?

In most cases, if your car has been operating well, you’ve provided it with routine maintenance, you attend to issues as they occur, and it runs well for you as you carry out your daily tasks, it should run for you on a road trip as well. If it hasn’t given you trouble as you drive around your neighborhood, there’s no reason to think it will act up on your trip.

Being aware is the most important part of car maintenance. Watch for anything new that arises with your vehicle.

Are there any fluid leaks?
Do you hear any new noises?
Does a light shine on your dashboard readings?
Does your car act similarly to how it always has?

If you haven’t noticed anything new, chances are it’s in good shape to make your road trip.

How do I prepare my car for a long trip?

Are you wondering if your car is in good enough shape to go on a road trip? Whether your trip is a few hundred miles, or you’ll be adding several thousand as you venture far from home, being stuck without a car isn’t a part of your plans.

Even if you take care of your vehicle regularly, if you haven’t had it checked in a few months, doing so right before your trip can give you added peace of mind. Scheduling a car maintenance appointment will allow one of our mechanics to check the important things, ensure everything is in good working condition, and enable you to head out without having to worry about your car.

Here’s what we’ll do.

Check fluids

Fluids are the lifeblood of any vehicle. It’s not just an occasional oil change that keeps your car running well. But regular oil changes are an integral part of keeping your car moving. Oil changes are usually done based on mileage. Will you hit that point during your trip? Then it’s a good idea to have your car serviced before you leave, to ensure it operates well throughout your trip.

Oil keeps many components operating well, such as the pistons, crankshaft, and camshaft. Mechanics will tell you to change your oil somewhere around every 5,000 miles. Manufacturers may go as high as 10,000 miles, depending on your make and model. Check with your owner’s manual, and talk with one of our mechanics to get on a schedule that works best for your needs.

Other fluids you should check include:

Radiator fluid – this is also known as coolant or antifreeze. This helps pull heat from the engine and dissipate it through the radiator. A mechanic can ensure a proper amount of fluid is in the system, and flushing it every 40,000 to 50,000 miles will keep it working its best.

Brake fluid – brake fluid keeps the brake lines working well. When you push on the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through the brake lines, enabling the brake pads to clamp on the rotors, and slow and stop your car. Flushing the system every 25,000 miles or so will ensure your brakes work as designed.

Power steering fluid – this fluid ensures your steering is responsive to your movements at any speed. If you notice a change in the way your car steers, and it takes more movement to go the direction you choose, it’s time to change out the power steering fluid. Many manufacturers recommend every 50,000 miles or so regardless.

Windshield washer fluid – long trips in the summer mean plenty of bugs and dust accumulating on the exterior of your car. Topping off the windshield washer fluid will allow you to keep your windshield clean no matter how many miles you drive.

Tires

As you would expect, your tires are essential for safety. Know how many miles of wear they have, bring your car in for inspection to ensure you’ll stay safe throughout your journey. This can alert you to potential problems, such as uneven wear marks, or faulty tread.

If you don’t have a sensor to alert you with pressure problems, be sure to check tire pressure every 1,000 miles or so. Even if your tire pressure is correct, it’s a good idea to rotate your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 miles or so to help them wear better and last longer. Tires should also be replaced every 25,000 to 50,000 miles. Not sure how much tread you have left? Do the quarter test. Insert a quarter into the tread. If it doesn’t cover George Washington’s hairline, it’s time to think about replacing your tires.

What other car maintenance items do you need before a road trip?

Cars have numerous components that need to be checked and observed over the years. The better you know your car, the more you’ll be aware when it’s time for replacement.

Other components that may need servicing or replacement include:

Brake pads – they provide friction needed to slow and stop your vehicle. Depending on the brake pad, you can expect anywhere from 25,000 to 70,000 miles before replacement. Keep in mind that brake pads may not always wear evenly from side to side. Be sure to have all brakes looked at and tested before heading out on the open road.

Air filters – especially in summer, you’ll be subjected to dust, dirt, and bug entering the engine and interior, clogging the filters. This can impact your drive as well as affect engine performance. New air filters for both your engine and interior cabin every 10,000 to 15,000 miles will give you a better ride.

Bulbs – when was the last time you checked your headlights? How about your brake lights? Make sure all of your lights are working properly to help keep you safe on the open road.

Belts and hoses – over time, belts and hoses can wear down, leak and crack. That can allow fluid to leak, and increase the potential of being stranded. Just a quick check can ensure your car is in its best condition for a safe trip, no matter where the road takes you.

Trust the Service Center

July 6, 2020 by admin

It’s comforting for drivers to know that they can trust the service center they frequent. Most service centers like Express Car Care have exacting standards and procedures for taking care of your vehicle. There are inspection procedures and auto service procedures.

When drivers come in for a routine service like an oil change, our technicians will give their vehicle the once over. They look to see if parts need to be replaced, such as your windshield wipers or air filter. They’ll check what your owner’s manual recommends be done at the current mileage of your vehicle.

They’ll come to you with suggestions for things that need attention, along with a prioritization, so you’ll know if there is anything urgent. They will also let you know of anything that will need attention in the coming months.

We compare it to going to the dentist for regular check-ups. No one wants to hear that they need dental work done- it’s unpleasant and costs money. It’s the same thing with your car or truck.

But think about those times when you put off going to the dentist for an extended length of time and end up going in with a severe problem. The little cavity that could’ve been fixed easily early on, has turned into a painful root canal.

There are so many things on your vehicle that are fairly simple and inexpensive to take care of when they’re scheduled but can lead to very costly and inconvenient repairs if ignored. It’s important to trust the service center when they give you recommendations.

Think of the car maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual like the checklist your dentist goes through when you get your semi-annual check up. The checklist makes sure nothing is overlooked. Add in a trained and trusted eye and you’ll catch most problems before they leave you out of service.

Drivers know their vehicles need to be serviced and when you’re working with a trusted service center , like Express Car Care in Denver, you can know that their recommendations are in your best interest.

Now, open wide….

Why Are My Brake Pads Wearing Differently On Each Side

June 29, 2020 by admin

Let’s talk brake pads for a moment.

Your brake pads are a part of your vehicle’s braking system. Brake pads are not the same thing as brakes. Instead, they are just one piece of the entire system. However, they are one of the key components because the contact and create friction as they connect with a vehicle’s brake rotors. These are the flat, shiny disks that are often visible through your wheels.

This friction is what gives your car the ability to stop. Pressure from the brake pads on the rotors slows your car down until it eventually stops moving.

Simple, right?

The process may sound easy enough. But the concept that allows a simple piece of equipment – the brake pad – to undergo extreme conditions on a daily basis, and still carry you safely from place to place without problems is a little more complicated.

Brake pads

In the past, brake pads were often made of asbestos. The friction created between the brake pad and the rotor creates an intense amount of heat. Asbestos is a great product for absorbing that heat. The problem is, asbestos is also hazardous to your health. As brake pads wear down, brake dust begins to dissipate, with the chance of it floating through the air. That’s a dangerous thing to breathe.

Today, brake pads are created from more natural materials such as metal, rubber, glass, ceramic, Kevlar, and resin that can withstand the heat. They are sometimes referred to as organic brake pads because they are made from materials that won’t pollute as they wear down over time.

There isn’t a “one brake pad fits all.” Some are made to be softer, to help create a quieter ride. Others are made for performance, perfect for cars built for hugging the road. Knowing what type of car you drive, and the way you drive your vehicle will help determine the best brake pad for you.

Brake pads wearing differently

Over time, your brake pads will begin to wear down. As they are pressed against the rotors, they heat up. Doing this over and over again causes enough friction to remove bits and pieces from the brake pads – brake dust may often appear in your wheel wells. Eventually, it will be time to replace your brake pads.

Brake pads are the most common replacement part of your braking system. And in most cases, the brake pads will wear on each of your wheels at approximately the same pace. But what about if one of the sets of pads wears down faster than the other? What is that doing to your vehicle?

On every vehicle, you have four brake pads – a set on the front wheels, and a set on the back. Front and rear brake pads will naturally wear differently because they are designed to perform in separate ways. The forward movement of your vehicle puts more pressure on your front brakes. That means they often wear faster than the rear brakes.

However, you might occasionally notice one side wearing faster than the other. What if the driver’s side brakes are more worn down? What causes that?

It might be a problem with the brake caliper. The brake caliper is designed to push the brake pad into the rotor. Without the caliper, you wouldn’t have proper pressure between the two to slow down your vehicle. Sometimes these calipers can stick, which can push the brake pad into the rotor ever so slightly even as you drive. That means the brake pad is continuing to wear every time you go for a drive, and will wear faster than the brake pad on the other side.

It might be a problem with the rotor. Rotors are known to sometimes wear unevenly, causing a Disc Thickness Variation – DTV. This variation can be caused by a variety of things, such as the caliper sticking, dirt sticking to the pad, or even consistent slamming on the brakes.

It might be a problem with misalignment. For a brake pad to work correctly, it must be aligned in such a way so that the entire brake pad connects with the rotor when you press down on the brake pedal. If that alignment is thrown off a little, it can cause a portion of the brake pad to wear faster than the rest. Not only can brake pads wear differently on each side of the vehicle, but the brake pad itself can show different signs of wear on different portions of the pad.

You have a brake pad problem

Because brake pads are one of the most important systems on your vehicle, as brake pads wear down, they give you a variety of different warning signals.

Squeaking, squealing, grinding noises – you can’t ignore the noise of a brake pad that is reaching end of life. They are designed in such a way so that they purposely produce this noise, and will keep creating it every time you step on the brake pedal.

Slow response – have you noticed you have to press down on the brake pedal more to bring your vehicle to a stop? That’s a sign your brake pads are wearing down. It takes more force to create the same action.

Pedal feels squishy – by the same token, when you press on the brake pedal, it may have a spongy feel to it. That’s an indicator your brake pads are worn out.

Burning smell – if your brakes receive too much heat, they can take on a burning smell. That chemical odor is a sign of overheated brakes, and could be a sign they need to be replaced.

Vibrations – as you press down on the brake pedal, you might feel vibrations pulsing through your foot. It may be a sign of bad brake pads or rotors, caused by the two not connecting as they should.

You can’t change brake pads on one side

We get this question a lot. You can’t just replace one brake pad on one side of your vehicle. While it may be tempting to try and save money, keep in mind that this can be dangerous to do.

Brake pads are designed to wear evenly on both sides of your car. That means replacing both front, or both rear, at the same time.

Do you suspect uneven wear? Have you noticed your brake pads are wearing differently? Schedule a brake service check today, and we’ll ensure you’re back on the road, ready to drive safely again in no time.

Serpentine Belt

June 22, 2020 by admin

Your serpentine belt is powered by the engine as it turns. Your alternator, air conditioning compressor and power steering pump depend on your serpentine belt in order to run. On some vehicles it also runs the water pump, radiator fan and power brakes.

If your serpentine belt breaks, your battery won’t last long. If it runs your fan or water pump, your engine could overheat before your battery dies. Steering and braking would also be affected. To put it mildly, you could be up a creek without a paddle if your serpentine belt breaks. Hopefully, we’ve made an impression about how important it is to replace your serpentine belt before it’s worn out.

Your owner’s manual will advise you when they recommend it’s best to replace your serpentine belt. Your friendly and knowledgeable service adviser at Express Car Care can inspect the belt as well to determine if it’s close to failure.

You may have heard that it’s a good idea to check for cracks in your belt to see if it’s time for a new one. However, with the newer belts, belt thickness is a more reliable indicator of the status. At Express Car Care, we use a special tool to measure the depth of the grooves to see if a replacement is in order.

A worn belt can also cause problems even before it breaks. It can slip out of place and put undue stress on the accessories it runs.

There’s a tensioner pulley on your engine that puts pressure on the belt to keep it at the right tension. Since the spring on the tensioner wears out like any other part, we recommend replacing the tensioner pulley at the same time you switch out the serpentine belt.

Replacing your serpentine belt on schedule will save you from a dangerous breakdown.

Come in and let us help you keep your vehicle on the road.

Brakes 101: Does Slamming On The Brakes Hurt Your Car?

June 21, 2020 by admin

Slamming on the brakes is something we all experience from time to time.

You’re driving along, thinking about work. Or school, or the kids, or what you’re doing this weekend, or what to pick up at the store …

At any given moment, there may be a dozen things running through your brain. But all of a sudden, you look up and see the car in front of you stop. Your only option is to slam on the brakes and hold on.

Then afterward, you take a deep breath and continue on your journey. You’re okay. But is your car?

What slamming on the brakes can do

Cause an accident – the most damaging thing that can happen is you’re involved in an accident. Depending on how severe it is determines if you’ll drive away.

But even if you don’t connect with another car, you can still cause damage inside and out. If you lose control, you might swerve into a curb, damaging your wheel. The sudden forward motion can also throw your passengers around in the car. They can jerk their heads, bump windows and doors, even experience whiplash depending on the speed.

Reduce your gas mileage – when you’ve experienced a heart-pounding experience, the last thing you might think about is your gas mileage. But if you find yourself slamming on the brakes frequently, it could be a sign you’re an aggressive driver.

Following too close and tailing people means you move into reactive driving. Your decisions are always about reacting in quick bursts, depending on what the person in front of you is doing. There is no margin of error; you have to react quickly to keep your car under control.

According to the Department of Energy, aggressive driving will lower your gas mileage by as much as 15 percent in the city, and up to 40 percent on the highway. Just think how much you’ll save if you back off and take a few extra minutes to get where you’re going.

Damage your tires – when you slam on the brakes, the most obvious part on your vehicle to sustain damage is your tires. You may hear the screech as they connect with the pavement. You may see smoke pouring up from under your car. You may smell a smell of burning rubber. That can’t be good for your tires.

And it isn’t. Sudden braking can cause flat spotting.

Flat spotting occurs when your wheels lock-up and your car skids. Because one small portion of your tires stay connected with the pavement while your car skids, it can wear that section as it remains on the pavement. That uneven wear causes a flat spot on the tread. While this might not damage your tires enough for replacement, it can shorten the lifespan of your tires.

Brake pad deterioration – brake pads are designed to connect with the rotors and create friction, which brings your vehicle to a stop. While they are designed to provide this action no matter what speed you’re going, slamming on the brakes places extra pressure on the connection. And that connection can cause your braking system to overheat.

As the braking system overheats, it can cause the brake pads to wear down faster, and allow stress to be placed on the rotors that may compromise the entire system. Even one incident of slamming on the brakes can put your entire braking system at risk, especially if your brake pads or rotors were already compromised.

How do you know if sudden stopping caused problems within your braking system? Pay attention to how your car drives. Do you have a shaky steering wheel, hear a squeaky sound as you apply the brakes again, or notice a brake light on your dashboard? All can be a sign that your braking system received more damage than you thought.

Damage to brake hoses – it’s not just the brake pads that can be impacted by a quick stop. As you push the brake pedal to the floor, brake fluid moves through the system, providing the pressure needed to bring the car to a stop.

The quick-action creates heat and pressure to move through the entire brake system, which can begin to cause damage to every part within the system. Small cracks and leaks can begin, especially if the hoses are old and were already internally weak.

Immediately following a quick stop, watch your vehicle carefully for a few days. Check under the car as you drive away – are there signs of brake fluid? Does your brake light flicker or turn on your dashboard? Watch for signs and contact one of our mechanics immediately to reduce the chances of further damage to your car.

Damage to the driveshaft – the drive shaft is what connects the engine to the wheels. This is what gives your vehicle the power to move and turn.

Think of the drive shaft as a “ball and socket” structure that allows movement and rotation. When you stop quickly, it can dislocate this structure, causing the joint to be slightly off askew.

Will your vehicle continue to drive? Possibly. Your car might not show any external damage. But over time, if this joint doesn’t perfectly mesh, it can begin to wear down and cause damage elsewhere in your car.

What you can do to prevent brake damage

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that even small amounts of damage can cause your car to wear faster, and possibly be not as safe as it was when you drove off the lot.

Keeping your vehicle in good condition means you’ll get a longer life from it, as well as keep the occupants safer everywhere you drive.

Slamming on your brakes is an easy problem to solve. Yes, we all might have to do it from time to time. But if you find it’s a normal part of your commute, it’s telling you to tone down the aggressive driving behavior.

Be more aware of how you drive. Notice hazards that you meet regularly and do what you can to avoid being placed in those situations. Leave a few minutes earlier, no matter where you’re off to, and give yourself more time to get where you’re going.

You’ll enjoy the ride more. And your car will love you for it too.

Trouble Driving? It Might Be Your Steering System

June 18, 2020 by admin

Ever since we’ve used vehicles for getting around, we’ve had some form of steering system.

Sitting on top of a horse, you take in the reins, gently pulling one side or the other to go in that general direction.

If you’ve hopped on a sled and sailed down a hill, you’ve used your weight to control what direction you move.

Taking a slight turn off the path takes gentle movements. For more profound directional changes, you’ll need to put more force into your actions.

Your vehicle works in a similar manner.

Your car works using four different wheels for control. If you make a right-hand turn, both front wheels angle and lead into the turn.

That’s where the complexity of the steering system lies. Your car’s front wheels are interconnected to position correctly and turn at the appropriate angles to get you where you want to go.

Rack and pinion steering

The rack and pinion steering system is the most common type of steering on today’s vehicles.

It starts with a shaft extended down from the steering wheel. This shaft is connected to a round gear called a pinion.

The pinion sits in a metal rod, also known as the rack. It extends the full width of your car, connecting to both your right and left wheel.

As you move your steering wheel left and right, the pinion moves through the different notches on the rack. As this rod moves, it controls the movement of your wheels.

Not all rack and pinion steering systems are the same. If you’ve ever been in a vehicle that doesn’t handle as well as another, or noticed the turning radius of one car doesn’t match another, it’s because different vehicles have different steering ratios.

Why your steering system might be giving you trouble

If you’ve ever driven your car and tried to turn, only to have your steering wheel be almost impossible to turn, you might have been frustrated with the inaction. Steering wheel issues can be caused by one of several things.

A power steering pump failure

In order for your steering wheel to turn easily as you drive, a power steering pump ensures the proper amount of pressure is applied to complete the turn. If this mechanism stops working, your steering wheel becomes that much more difficult to turn. It might be a simple repair – a piece has broken loose. Or it could be the entire power steering pump needs to be replaced.

Power steering fluid issues

Like other parts of your car, the steering system uses fluid to create hydraulic pressure within the system. Over time, this fluid can dissipate, creating issues with your ability to turn. As a part of your regular maintenance plan, have your power steering fluid checked according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A problem with the steering rack

The rack isn’t one solid piece, but instead is a series of different shafts and joints that connect the steering system together. As these parts wear down through use, the stress can cause additional problems with the steering rack. When this happens, you might notice the steering capabilities shifting and stiffening up. It might not be an immediate problem with safety, but it is an indicator that a mechanic should check out as soon as possible.

Improper tire pressure

Your tires are the baseline for every system in your vehicle. If they aren’t filled to the proper levels, it can be difficult turning the steering wheel, especially if the tire pressure is low. Make checking your tire pressure a routine maintenance item, checking it once a month as you pull into the filling station.

Damage to the serpentine belt

The serpentine belt is one long, continuous belt used to control multiple devices within the engine compartment, including the power steering pump. Because this belt is used so often and in so many ways, it’s easy for it to wear down or become damaged. Depending on what damage occurs determines how it impacts the steering wheel. This is another reason why you should schedule regular maintenance visits with a mechanic to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly.

How steering and alignment meet

Your vehicle is a complex set of components, all working together to get you where you want to go. Sometimes it’s a little more difficult finding out where the true problem lies.

If you’ve checked out the different parts of your steering system, checked the pressure on your tires, and still notice a problem with the way your vehicle steers, it might be an alignment problem.

Proper steering and wheel alignment go hand in hand.

When your vehicle was initially manufactured, every part fit perfectly together. The wheels were in perfect alignment. All parts fit tightly and securely together. When you turned on your vehicle and started driving, the wheels were set to move straight and drive smoothly. That’s due to having a proper alignment designed to work in conjunction with the rest of your vehicle.

Unfortunately, as you drive, a variety of things can go wrong with your car. When you hit a pothole, the alignment begins to erode. Normal driving begins to wear down parts. Until eventually, your car no longer moves the way it used to.

Pay attention to how your car drives on a straight road. Does it veer to one side without adjusting the steering wheel? Have you noticed your steering wheel is crooked when you’re driving straight ahead? Do you notice your tires squealing without any other reason? Your car may be in need of an alignment.

Proper alignment means your car will move in the direction you steer it. It also means you’ll have more control as you run across daily driving situations, and keep you and your vehicle’s occupants safer as you navigate driving situations.

Are you having trouble driving?

If you’ve noticed a change in the way your car drives, and it’s impacting the way your car steers into curves and corners, it might be time to check your steering system. Our technicians will inspect your car’s steering and suspension system to ensure everything is running its best. Schedule your maintenance visit with us today.

What Your Parking Brake Is For

June 14, 2020 by admin

There are a lot of parts to a car that we tend to take for granted. They’re there. We may use them from time to time. But we rarely think much about them.

That defines the parking brake perfectly.

The parking brake is designed for what its name suggests: to add extra security to your vehicle when it’s stopped, resting, and you’re away from the car. Of course, that’s not it’s only function. Which is why it is sometimes referred to as an emergency brake, e-brake, or hand brake too.

When you think parking brake, think safety. That’s what it’s designed for. But what is its true function?

Let’s start at the beginning.

How does a parking brake work?

A parking brake is a part of a car’s braking system. It connects to the rear brakes, and when engaged, engages the vehicle’s primary braking system with less force.

Looking back at history, the parking brake was an important part of the braking system. It was designed to give a driver another option to stop the car if, by chance, the hydraulic brakes fail while driving.

On modern cars, however, the parking brake is rarely needed in that circumstance. That could be why the name has morphed over time from the emergency brake to the parking brake.

While your primary brakes operate through a technology-driven hydraulic system that gradually brings your car to a stop, the parking brake is designed to hold your car in place.

Today, we use the parking brake as an extra precaution for keeping our vehicles motionless while parked. This can be a big benefit when parked on steep inclines or declines.

As our vehicles get more sophisticated, the way systems operate is changing too. In general, there are four different types of parking brake systems. You can check your owner’s manual to confirm what comes equipped on your vehicle.

Stick lever – on older cars, you’ll find this located on the instrument panel
Center console lever – this is located between the two front seats
Foot pedal – this is located on the floor on the left side of the pedals
Push button – with newer cars, you’ll find the parking brake can be activated by a button located somewhere on the console

When should you use your parking brake?

As the name implies, a parking brake should be used whenever you park your car. Whether you drive with manual or automatic transmission, the parking brake adds extra security when you walk away from your car.

While some will tell you that parking brakes are more important when you park on an incline or decline, others will tell you it’s equally important to use it no matter where you place your vehicle. Your braking system uses a device that keeps your brakes locked and engaged whenever you put your car into park and walk away. However, failure can occur, and it’s not just the brakes that can cause the problem. If the gears aren’t engaged, it can cause your car to roll, even on what appears to be a flat surface. Engaging it each and every time you turn off your car ensures your car stays where you place it.

Here’s a tip for reducing the stress on the drive train. If you are parking on an incline or decline, leave your foot on the brake pedal as you move the gears to park position. Before you take your foot off the brake pedal, engage the parking brake too.

Have you ever let your foot off before engaging the parking brake? Have you felt your car jolt forward or backward as it adjusts to sitting on an incline? That action over time can damage both your transmission and braking systems. That means costly repairs before their time. Engaging the parking brake first prevents this action from occurring, protecting various systems throughout your vehicle.

When you’re ready to drive, start your engine, press down on the brake pedal to engage the brake system, release the parking brake, and then move into drive. Driving with your parking brake on can damage your vehicle.

Why is a parking brake important?

Get into the habit of using your parking brake every time you stop. It gives you added stability while your vehicle is inactive. While this can be important to keep your vehicle stable while resting on an incline, there are other circumstances where this is important too.

For example, if you’re sitting on a busy street or in a parking lot, and someone hits your vehicle, the parking brake decreases the chance of it rolling, increasing the likelihood of damage.

It also keeps your car in overall good working condition. If you don’t use parts, they start to wear. A parking brake that is rarely used can stiffen, rust, corrode, weaken, and wear down, meaning it’s less likely to work when you need it most.

Like every part of your car, it’s important to have the parking brake regularly inspected to ensure it’s in proper working condition.

Potential problems with your parking brake

While parking brakes rarely present problems, you may likely find yourself in one of these situations:

Parking brake frozen – ice can cause the parking brake to freeze when it’s really cold. Leaving the engine run for a few moments can start to heat your car and make the ice melt. If this doesn’t melt it, you can find which wheel it’s connected to, and melt the ice with a hairdryer.

Rust or corrosion – over time, corrosion or rust can infiltrate the mechanism inside the parking brake, making it harder to work until it freezes altogether. It might be difficult to diagnose without having it towed in. You can apply and release the brakes a few times to see if you can disengage it. Shift between reverse and drive to see if it loosens up the debris enough to take the parking brake off. If not, your only choice is to have it towed and repaired.

Engaged too hard – when people are in a hurry, they often make quick movements that can hurt more than help. That’s often the case with the parking brake. If you pull up too hard, it can jam it. Pulling with all your strength can get the brake shoe stuck in the wheel drum. It can stretch out the cable that runs from the wheel to the brake handle enough that makes it impossible to disengage. If you’ve tried and can’t release the parking brake, it may be time to seek help.

Whether you have a question about a specific problem, or just need an inspection and check up to keep you on the road safely, we can help.

How can we help you today?

Help! My Brakes Smell Like They’re Burning

June 10, 2020 by admin

Ah, a new car smell. Just saying it brings thoughts to mind.

How would you describe it? While it may be difficult to put into words, what you might not know is all the time and energy put into creating it. Yes, people really do pay attention to the way a new car smells.

While you can argue how natural those smells really are, the good news is they fade away. Drive it around for a short time, and your car will no longer smell. (At least a new car smell. If you leave a gym bag behind the seat for too long, all bets are off.)

But what about when you do notice something out of the ordinary? A smell that you can’t quite put your finger on, but you know it shouldn’t be there?

There’s nothing like the smell of burning brakes. Any time you get a whiff of a burning smell while driving your car, it’s cause for concern. Safety is your top concern.

Pull over. Assess the problem.

Depending on what’s causing the smell and what you were doing when the smell first started, different courses of action can be needed.

You have new brakes

When was the last time you had your brakes serviced? When were your brakes last replaced? If you have new parts on your braking system, it could be causing the burning smell. And that’s okay.

New brake pads are covered in resin. As your brake pads adjust and settle into the braking system, the material starts to burn off. This smell is a sign your brake system is working, getting stronger each time you work them.

This break-in period is different for every vehicle, for every set of brakes. With some, you may not notice it at all. With others, it can linger for days.

Give it a few days. You should start to sense the scent disappearing. If it’s still strong days later, bring it back in and one of our mechanics will check it out.

Your parking brake may be engaged

The parking brake is a system that some drivers use all the time, others, not so much. If you fall into the “once in a while” group, you might accidentally leave it engaged.

If you notice a burning smell soon after you start driving, check to ensure your parking brake isn’t engaged. The friction caused by driving while the parking brake is on can overheat over time, eventually causing damage.

Of course, the burning smell is only part of what you might sense. Other indications include trouble accelerating, a squealing noise, or even the sound of grinding. On some vehicles, you might even have a light emit on your dashboard panel.

Double check that the parking brake is off, to rule this out as a possible cause of the burning smell.

Your brakes are overheating

The third and most serious of potential problems is if your brakes are overheating.

Every time you use the brakes on your vehicle, they work by creating friction to slow down or come to a stop. While brake pads are designed to take normal wear, if you drive aggressively or overuse them, it can lead to your brakes overheating.

We see it quite regularly because of the Rocky Mountains. If you head up into the hills regularly, it can happen if you ride the brakes coming back down. Friction causes heat. By leaving the brake pads engaged for minutes at a time, the heat builds to a point where it overheats. That’s when the burning smell starts. Some people say it smells like carpet burning. In any case, it’s a scent you’ll pick up on immediately, and one you should pay attention to for safety.

The smell might be the first indication, but there are usually more. You may notice the brake pedal feeling a little spongy when you press down on it. You might notice a stream of smoke coming from under the car.

Your first course of action is to get to safety and stop. Give your brakes a chance to cool down while you consider your next actions.

How to avoid overheating

Especially here in Colorado, it’s important to have other ways to control your vehicle.

First, drive cautiously, not aggressively, leaving plenty of space all around you. If you’re not following close behind another car, you’ll have more opportunity to apply light pressure instead of pouncing on the brake pedal. It’ll also prevent you from riding the brakes, using them consistently throughout your drive.

Next, try downshifting instead. Even automatic engines have multiple gears for this reason. Instead of riding the brakes, especially coming down a steep hill, downshift and let the engine do the work instead.

Finally, have a mechanic as a friend. If you schedule regular checkups for your vehicle, you’ll stay on top of potential problems. You’ll learn if your brakes are wearing down, or discover how much tread is left on your tires. You’ll take the guesswork out of staying on top of what work needs to be done to your car.

Is it all brake pads? Can it be just one?

It’s also important to keep in mind that brake pads can sometimes wear at different levels. Your front end and read brake pads naturally will wear differently.

Even then, as your vehicle is moving forward, this momentum tends to put more strain on the front brakes. This often causes them to wear quicker than the rear brakes.

However, you’ll sometimes find brakes wearing on one side more than the other.

It’s the brake caliper’s job to push brake pads against the rotors. This is what creates the friction, causing your vehicle to stop. If the caliper sticks, meaning it stays pressed against the rotor, it will wear faster than usual.

Sometimes rotors wear unevenly, which is known as disc thickness variation. It can wear due to sticking calipers, or dirt getting trapped between the pad and the rotor. Pouncing on the brake pedal frequently can also cause a problem.

It might even be a misalignment in the brake pads. If they bounce, or simply not installed right, it can also lead to problems.

Take action – have your brake system checked

Smells are designed to give you advance warning of a problem.

If you notice a distinct smell to alert you to burning brakes, safety is your first concern. Give us a call soon after. We can get your car in, make necessary repairs, and have you back on the road again in no time.

Check Engine Light

June 8, 2020 by admin

When your check engine light comes on, you may be torn between utter panic and just wanting to ignore it and hope it goes away. That’s perfectly understandable. That same check engine light could come on for anything from a serious engine or transmission problem all the way down to a loose gas cap.

There’s a very common misconception that the trouble codes stored in your engine computer will specifically identify a problem when the check engine light comes on. This isn’t the case, it’s more like pointing to the symptoms of the problem.

Think of it like taking your temperature. Say it’s 101. Your heat sensor (the thermometer) tells you that your temperature is out of the normal range, but it doesn’t tell you why you have a fever. You’ll need more information, more tests before you can diagnose why you have a fever. A check engine light works in the same way.

For any given trouble code, there could be several causes. So, your trained technician takes the trouble code as a starting point and begins a diagnostic process to determine the cause of the problem. Sadly, some problems take longer to solve than others.

When your engine management system logs a problem and illuminates the check engine light, your service technician will plug in a scanner, download the trouble codes and go to work tracing the cause of the problem.

That’s only the first step. This is when your technicians training, equipment, databases and skill get put to work diagnosing the problem and deciding the best way to fix it.

If your check engine light is flashing it means that the problem could lead to serious damage, don’t ignore it. You should get to the service center as soon as possible and get the problem solved. If it’s on but not flashing, you have some time to get your vehicle in at your convenience.

Come in and see us or give us a call if you have any questions.