Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Should You Invest In Better Brake Pads?

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We’ve all heard the phrase, “you get what you pay for.” But does it apply to every situation? With something as sophisticated as your car’s brake system, is there a big difference between the different types of brake pads on the market?

To answer that question, let’s start with how the brake system works.

Understanding today’s modern brake system

Your vehicle is designed with four wheels, each with a brake attached to help slow it down. Car brakes may be disc or drum, depending on the way it was designed.

The front brakes provide you with more braking power. Think about the force for a moment, when you press down on the brake pedal to slow for a stoplight. The force of the vehicle moves forward, putting more pressure on the front of the car.

Disc brakes, in general, are better at stopping. You’ll find many cars today have disc brakes on the front, and drum brakes on the rear. All disc braking systems are found on some expensive or performance-driven cars, while all drum brakes may be found on older models, manufactured before disc brakes grew in popularity.

When you push down on the brake pedal, a piston moves inside the master cylinder. This allows fluid to move through pipes to slave cylinders located at each wheel. This transfer of fluid depresses pistons at each brake, forcing the brakes into action and the vehicle to slow.

This fluid is designed to distribute evenly throughout the system. This is what keeps your brake system working at optimal capacity.

You can also see the importance of having this process work correctly. An error or shutdown could have devastating impacts. Therefore, most modern cars have twin hydraulic circuits with two master cylinders, in case one of them no longer words. These twin systems can either each take a section – the front or back – or work in conjunction with each other to produce reliable force.

Why better brake pads can increase your safety

Should You Invest In Better Brake Pads?With a disc brake system, a disc turns the wheel. The disc is straddled by a brake caliper, which is controlled by pistons operating from the master cylinder. These pistons press against brake pads that case friction and stop the vehicle. These pads are shaped to cover a significant portion of the rotor, to ensure it properly stops the car.

This entire system is designed to apply pressure “just enough” to put the brakes into action. There aren’t springs to control it; instead, it all works via hydraulics, where pressure forces the pads against the rotor when the brake pedal is pressed, and released when it’s not. The two are close together by design, so only a small amount of movement is needed to put the brake system in action.

You can imagine the force needed to bring thousands of pounds of metal to a stop when it’s traveling down the road at 40, 50, or even 60 miles per hour. Brake pads endure a lot of force as you use the brakes again and again as you drive around.

When you purchase brake pads, rest assured no matter which you choose, they will get the job done. However, it’s also important to note that there are no federal safety standards for aftermarket brake pads.

Federal standards issued by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration set rules about new car standards, but do not establish regulations for aftermarket replacement brakes. The standards set for new vehicles ensure safe driving by requiring a car to stop within a certain distance, but the same rules don’t apply for replacement parts.

That’s why it’s important to know where your parts come from, and ensure you are using a trustworthy source for brake replacement.

In general, there are two types of brake pads on the market today: ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads.

Ceramic brake pads were first introduced back in the 1980s and have gained in popularity. Ceramic brake pads are composed of a material you’ll find in your ceramic cookware, only a much denser fabric. Copper fibers are weaved through to help conduct and disperse heat. Ceramic brake pads are designed to be a softer material that won’t wear against the rotor as fast as other materials. That means they have a longer service life, will have less noise, and create less brake dust than its counterparts.

Semi-metallic brake pads, on the other hand, offer better performance. That’s because their friction quality is controlled by a variety of metals, including iron, steel, and alloys, all bound together by a small amount of graphite lubricant. You’ll find budget semi-metallic brake pads with a composition that is roughly 30 percent metal, but the best will contain higher ratios, as much as 60 percent or more. These brakes have great stopping power, durability, and dissipate heat better than other types of pads. But there is a trade-off – they can be a bit noisy, and will create more brake dust than ceramic brakes.

What’s the difference? What makes one brake pad better than another?

Ultimately, it comes down to the braking power. The major difference between the different pad materials will be on the friction layer, or the part that connects with the rotor. This is the part that causes your car to slow and stop.

Both economy and premium brakes will get the job done. Safety requirements do require all brake pads sold on the market to meet certain regulations. However, premium brake pads will offer better performance, and will always outperform lower quality brands. Premium brake pads have an increased stopping power and decreased brake fade. That means brake performance will remain consistent no matter how much pressure they are put under. That can be a big deal if you drive up and down the mountains, especially with a big payload.

Premium brake pads also use higher quality materials, which typically will give you longer wear factors. They are designed for longer service life and will wear more evenly overall. Better materials also mean less chance for particles to wear off. Brake dust can cause uneven wear on your brake pads. It can also cause squealing as the brake dust wears away.

When was the last time you replaced your brake pads? 

Why You Change Your Transmission Fluid

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It’s very easy to forget about servicing your transmission because it doesn’t need it very often, but when you change your transmission fluid it keeps your vehicle running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road.  Your transmission undergoes a lot of stress.  The grit you see in used fluid is actually bits of clutch material.  This grit flowing through your transmission under pressure eats away at seals and gaskets which can lead to leaks.  The transmission operates at very high temperatures – much higher than engine temperatures.  Those high temperatures eventually cause the transmission fluid to start to break down and loose efficiency.  At best, your transmission won’t operate smoothly.  At worst, it could lead to very costly damage.  When you change your transmission fluid and it’s running properly, it transfers more power from your engine to the drive wheels and improves fuel economy.  That’s why manufacturers have recommended changing your transmission fluid at regular intervals.  Your owner’s manual has a schedule for transmission service and, of course, your Express Car Care service adviser can tell you what the manufacturer recommends.  At Express Car Care, we are able to perform a transmission service while you wait and the cost is usually quite reasonable.  When you think about how much a major transmission repair can cost, the cost to change your transmission fluid with our transmission service is downright cheap.  Come on in or give us a call and let us know what we can do to help you keep your car on the road.

All Signs Point To A Bad Alternator

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Today’s modern vehicle is designed with thousands of parts working together to keep you on the road. While most of us know how a few of the systems work, other parts aren’t as clear.

Tires connect to the road, keeping you comfortable and safe. A battery keeps the car running. Or does it?

A car battery is used to provide electricity to the electric starter motor designed to turn your vehicle on. But once the car is running, the power moves to the alternator, which generates energy to continually feed the electrical system while in operation.

Think of your alternator as a generator. When your vehicle is started, the engine spins wheels underneath the hood. One of those wheels is connected to the alternator, which generates energy. That energy is what keeps your electrical system running.

How do you know where the problem is with your vehicle? What are the signs of a bad alternator?

Bright or dim lights

All Signs Point To A Bad AlternatorWhen your electrical system isn’t getting enough current, it impacts the various accessories on your vehicle, including your lights. When you drive in the dark, is it harder to see? Does it appear your lights have dimmed? Or do they seem to be shining too brightly?

When an alternator begins to fail, it provides inconsistent voltage to the various systems in your vehicle. And that often translates to either underperforming or overperforming equipment. It’s usually most noticeable in headlights that appear either too dim or too bright. You may also experience flickering lights as you drive through the night.

Trouble starting

When you turn the key, you expect your vehicle to jump into action. If your alternator is starting to fail, that might not occur with regularity. You may have to turn the key a time or two, trying to get the engine to stay running.

For most car owners, the thought immediately turns to the battery. And while it might be the case, it’s important to consider all of the possibilities. How old is your battery? When was the last time you changed it out? Watch for other clues to determine where the problem lies.

Stalling

You may find the reverse happening too. As you drive your vehicle, stopping for lights and stop signs, you may find your car frequently stalls out.

If this happens regularly, it’s not your battery failing. Instead, it’s a sign that your vehicle’s spark plugs aren’t retaining enough power to keep your car operational. Without the flow of energy, your car simply can’t keep going.

Dead battery

There may be other times where you try to start your car and the battery is dead. You turn the key and nothing happens.

It could be just that – a dead battery. Maybe you left your light on overnight, and it drained the power from the battery. But if you’ve noticed other signs of potential problems, you might also determine it’s a sign your alternator is failing.

A bad alternator won’t charge the battery while the engine is running. That means the energy dissipates from the system quicker, preventing it from turning over when you go to start it.

A great way to test to see if it’s your battery or the alternator is to jumpstart the car. If it stays running, it’s your battery. If it dies shortly after the jump, it might be that your alternator isn’t supplying enough power to the battery.

Accessory problems

The electrical system supplies energy to many different parts of your car. It includes your power windows, your radio, your seat warmers, your windshield wipers and more. If you notice your windows take longer to move into place, it might be a sign the electrical system isn’t working at its best.

Thanks to today’s technology, there’s a hierarchy to where energy flows in the event of a problem. Your car is programmed to keep your car running, keeping you safe from potential problems. It’s programmed to stop supplying energy to things lower on the list – your radio or seat warmers – before turning off more vital systems – your headlights.

That’s why it’s important to pay attention to all warning signs as they occur. If you notice your radio fading in and out, there might be a reason for that.

If it keeps occurring and you notice other problems, it’s time to get your vehicle tested and the problem solved.

Noises

Cars make a variety of noises. From the moment you drove it off the lot, you’ve become attuned to the noises your car makes. Pay attention to any noises that change over time.

Do you hear a growling sound? Or a whining noise coming from under the hood? Whether something changes, gets louder, or worsens over time, your best course of action is to have a mechanic check things out.

Odor

Another warning sign that may occur is a strange odor coming from underneath the hood. A burning rubber smell could indicate parts are starting to wear out. The alternator’s drive belt is under constant tension and pressure. And because it’s near the engine, it can easily emit a burning smell as it comes closer to the engine compartment.

A burning odor can also occur as your alternator ages. If it has frayed or the wires are damaged, it’ll be reminiscent of an electrical fire.

Battery warning light

Your vehicle’s monitoring system is designed to warn you of any potential problems. When the battery warning light pops up on the dashboard, it can be from various problems. Many drivers assume it’s a problem with the battery. However, it’s also designed to illuminate any issues with the electrical system, including the alternator.

The alternator is designed to work at a specific voltage. When it falls outside of the recommended levels – usually 13 to 14.5 volts – it’s a sign that it’s failing. And when that happens, the battery dashboard light will illuminate.

Depending on how the electrical load is impacting your car, it can also cause the battery light to flicker on and off. If power isn’t getting to your headlight or wipers, for example, the battery may flicker as it attempts to do its job. If you notice this frequently, it’s worth further investigation.

Whether you’ve just started noticing a problem with your electrical system, or your car simply won’t start, we’re here to help you with all of your vehicle’s issues.

Give us a call today. We offer quality service at a reasonable price.

Key Reasons Why Cars Last Longer Than Ever Before

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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average car is driven about 15,000 miles per year. The New York Times found that fifty to sixty years ago, the average expected life of a vehicle was around 100,000 miles. Today, because of better technology, tighter tolerances, and better anti-corrosion coatings, the average life is closer to 200,000.

Cars are lasting longer than ever before. While that may be good for you as the car owner, it can compromise the overall driving experience if it isn’t well maintained. The average age of cars and light trucks on the road has reached peak levels to 11.8 years in 2019. It’s predicted to be more than 84 million vehicles on the road at least 16 years old by 2023. That poses significant problems, especially when car manufacturers 16 years ago weren’t thinking about that kind of longevity.

Why are coats lasting longer?

And equally important, what can you do to ensure your vehicle will last you for many years to come?

Improving the way a vehicle is assembled

Key Reasons Why Cars Last Longer Than Ever BeforeThe way cars are produced has changed a lot over the years. To say they’ve gone through a massive overhaul in the last century would be an understatement.

The first cars were powered by steam at the turn of the century. They didn’t have windshields, doors, or turn signals. Safety features – they weren’t in existence.

Mass production is what brought the first inkling of what we have with our vehicles today. Slowly, cars became safer, more durable, with improved systems and functions to create a better driving experience.

Laws like the 1966 National Traffic and Motor Safety Act worked on improving driving conditions. It included traffic safety programs, driver education and licensing, inspections, highway design, and traffic law enforcement.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began testing and rating vehicles for collision protection in 1978. That made manufacturers work harder at creating vehicles that would protect passengers.

And it all starts at the assembly line, with the way today’s modern vehicles are put together. What used to be left to humans, which varied from person to person, is now a precise task as machines and robotics handle every detail.

Emphasis is placed on making every part better, stronger, lighter, and more efficient. To improve fuel economy, for example, required designers to come up with ways to make body parts more efficient. They had to be thinner, lighter, and made of better materials so they wouldn’t rust or corrode.

All of this is because regulations keep getting better. And that isn’t going to stop. We now demand it in every car we purchase, knowing it’ll give us years of service.

Engine efficiency

Old engines made a vehicle operate, but they weren’t very efficient. That’s changed as laws and regulations required it so.

Old carburetors would drip fuel into the engine, and because there wasn’t a lot of control, that extra fuel would wash away, corroding parts as a part of the process. Unburned fuel would dilute the oil, wear out rubber, and cause the engine to be anything but efficient.

Now, modern fuel and oil have been modernized to the current status where they are beneficial at helping vehicles thrive. You no longer have engines that die from corrosion and buildup. Fuel injection makes every system a precise course of action. It controls fluids in such a way that they go where needed, in the right amounts, at the right time. A cleaner combustion process means a better engine that lasts longer, and saves on fuel and oil in the process.

Motor oil from just a few decades ago was simple at best. But as mechanics and engineers learned more about the process, they refined the fluids used in today’s engines. Synthetic oils are designed to work no matter what the temperature is outside, from freezing cold to sweltering heat. This isn’t the motor oil your parents used.

Thanks to technology, you can go farther between servicing, and expect parts to last for tens of thousands of miles. Spark plugs, for example, now last 100,000 miles or more.

It’s no longer about guessing when you’re vehicle is in need of repair. Today’s vehicles will tell you what it needs, when it needs it.

Better electronics

Imagine a vehicle that can tell you what it needs. Gauges alert you when you’re running low on fuel. Lights warn you of potential problems. Voice commands give you diagnostics, and offer refinement to improve the driving experience.

Of course, this isn’t sci-fi; this is reality. All you have to do is sit in a new car and you’ll find technology a big part of how it operates.

With on-board computer sensors and monitors, every system, every piece is watched closely to ensure it’s operating the way it should. When something moves outside of the established limits, a sensor is alerted, and it warns you via a dashboard light. They are finely tuned to maximize part life, give you advanced warning to bring your car in for servicing, and lessen the likelihood of being stranded because of a part that no longer works.

Establishing a car maintenance program you can live by

If you choose to keep your vehicle for years, it’s important to service your car regularly to maintain each of the systems at optimal performance. The average car built today includes over 30,000 parts. Each of those parts are attached and combined to work together. If one part is bad, it has the ability to impact every other part in some manner.

A reputable auto mechanic isn’t just there to service your vehicle when you have problems with your car. They are also there to be a part of the team that keeps it operating correctly for as long as you own it.

If you’re looking for a partner to keep your car operating in great condition, stop by today and give us a try. From regular oil changes to overhauling complete systems, we can help your car stay safe and on the road for years to come.

Driving on Technology

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Driving on TechnologyThink of how much technology has changed vehicles in the last several years.  And there’s a lot more coming.

Many of you will remember when drivers were the ones who had complete control of several driving functions:  steering, braking and skid and accident prevention, just to name a few.  Thanks to driving technology, now computers and high-tech systems in the vehicle assist with many of these skills.  Anti-lock brakes help the driver stop while avoiding uncontrolled skids, traction control helps reduce slippage, and stability control can minimize the chances of losing control.

Backup cameras let drivers see what’s directly behind them which they never could see before.  Sensors warn drivers if a vehicle is crossing in front or behind them.  Even more sensors and fish-eye cameras alert drivers when they’re getting too close to something.  And those are just a few samples of the new driving technology advances.

The quest for self-driving vehicles has produced features that are already making their way into today’s cars, trucks, and SUV’s.  Electric and hybrid vehicles are introducing break-out driving technologies.  For example, a new braking technology allows the driver to let up on the accelerator, and instead of the car coasting for a while or the driver having to apply the brakes, the vehicle will slow down using regenerative braking without the driver even touching the brake pedal.  This regenerative braking system recharges the batteries.  Another system helps steer the car to keep it in the center of the lane using cameras and radar to keep track of the lane markers.

Most of these driving technologies aim at improving safety and efficiency, in much of the same way as all the other systems installed in the vehicle you currently own.  But whether you’re driving on new technology or not, it’s always important to keep them maintained so they’re working properly.  At Express Car Care we invest in training and diagnostic tools and equipment to keep your high-tech systems up to date as we all move forward to the vehicles of the future.

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel – What’s The Difference?

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Here in Colorado, we face a variety of driving experiences throughout the year.

Scorching hot days where the pavement seems to melt before your eyes? Check.

Frigid temperatures with ice and snow packed roads that make it difficult to drive? Check, we have those too.

All of that can make it difficult to decide which car to buy. Should you focus on purchasing an all-wheel, front-wheel, or rear-wheel design? What’s the difference? Is one suited better for Colorado driving?

What is front-wheel drive?

When it comes to selecting a family car to get you around the city, front-wheel drive vehicles remain a popular choice. One recent study showed that just over 40 percent of the vehicles on the road today have front-wheel drive. But what exactly does that mean?

With a front-wheel drivetrain, the power of the vehicle remains with the front two wheels. This setup gives the front wheels the responsibility of moving and steering the car where you desire it to go.

From a design perspective, this is a less complex model, therefore it is also the least expensive way of powering a car. Because the engine is already upfront, it’s easier to connect power to the front wheels via two shorter drive axles.

But cost and ease is only part of the reason front-wheel drive vehicles remain one of the most popular choices on the road. They are also one of the most fuel-efficient.

Back in 1975, the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program was enacted. It was designed to improve fuel economy during the time of the Arab Oil Embargo. It sought standards to curtail fuel consumption as well as create jobs and cut global warming. As a part of that, automakers discovered that front-wheel drive vehicles was the quickest were to gain a few miles per gallon.

Having a more compact drivetrain, where the parts sit in front of the vehicle, reduces the weight. Less weight to move around on the road means a more fuel-efficient vehicle. It also works well here in Colorado because having the motor over the drivetrain also improves acceleration and traction. Whether roads are filled with water, ice, snow, sand, or gravel, a front-wheel drive vehicle will be easier to keep under control.

What is rear-wheel drive?

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel - What’s The Difference?Everything we discussed above that comes equipped with a front-wheel drive car is reversed with a rear-wheel model.

You’ll find a variety of vehicles equipped with rear-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive is a transmission system designed for a more even weight distribution and optimal handling in normal driving conditions. When the sun is shining and you’re ready to take your car for a drive, you’ll enjoy the performance of a rear wheel drive system. Punch the accelerator from a standing start, the weight transfers to the rear, and gives you a smoother transition as you pick up speed. No fishtailing.

However, that performance doesn’t convert well when ice and snow build up. With more power in the rear wheels, it increases the possibility of fishtailing and losing control as your back wheels try to maneuver.

What is all-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive is a type of four-wheel drive system. It automatically shifts power between the front and rear wheels, depending on the kind of driving conditions. It’s designed for lighter winter driving and off-pavement use. If you truly want to go four-wheeling, you’re better off selecting a four-wheel drive vehicle. But for most driving conditions here across the front-range, all-wheel drive is a good choice.

The concept of all-wheel drive has changed considerably since its inception. The split between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive used to be more pronounced. To switch between the two, you would have to shift between them, selecting your driving preference. Thanks to technology, the difference is more automatic, with different types of vehicles moving seamlessly between the two, depending on the driving conditions. Vehicles like “crossovers” and others offer a wide variety of performance features. It’s easier to focus on the make and model, determining which is a good fit for your driving needs.

The role of the tires

While a vehicle’s drivetrain is important to how well your vehicle will perform in different situations, there’s another piece to the puzzle that can help make your car safer. The tires on your car are equally important to overall performance.

If you purchase a sporty vehicle, one that is designed for performance on dry roads, they are usually sold with summer tires designed with traction that can hug the open road. Dry conditions give you ease of handling, and can be quite fun to drive. However, the moment you add ice and snow to the mix, those tires won’t seem so impressive.

By adding snow tires to a front-wheel drive vehicle, you may see better performance than an all-wheel drive with summer tires. Again, the two pieces work in conjunction with each other to help you stay in control while you’re driving on the road.

Here in Colorado, we have both types of road conditions. And while all season tires can work well all year long, if you travel significant distances all year long and want the best performance possible in all conditions, combining snow tires with all-wheel drive is the way to go.

Problems with the drivetrain

No matter which type of vehicle you own, at some point in time, you may notice problems with the drivetrain.

  • Vibrations or intense shaking from under the vehicle
  • Difficulty making turns
  • A loud clunking noise when shifting occurs as you drive
  • A shuddering when stopping or starting
  • A squeaking noise at low speeds
  • A knocking noise as you drive

Any sound out of the ordinary is a reason for concern. If you notice something changes with the way your car drives, pay attention to where it’s coming from. This can help one of our mechanics pinpoint the problem.

Whether you have a front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive vehicle, the most important aspect of keeping them running well is to get them serviced regularly.

Why Is My Vehicle Vibrating As I Speed Up and Slow Down

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Part of driving is learning to recognize when your vehicle isn’t working the way it should. You can’t ignore your car’s warning signs and expect it to drive well time after time.

Your vehicle should provide you with a smooth driving experience. It should start without a hitch. It should speed up and slow down without the vehicle vibrating.

Yet over time, you may start to notice a change in the way your car handles. That smooth feeling is replaced by a shaking feeling that becomes more noticeable at certain times throughout the drive.

What’s causing it?

Brakes

If you notice the vibrations mostly occur as you apply the brakes, chances are it’s a problem with one of the components in your braking system.

Your braking system has several key components: brake pads, brake rotors, and brake calipers.

When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, it creates force to the brakes via hydraulic fluid. Because brakes require more pressure than your foot could give, this hydraulic fluid helps amplify the force into the braking system.

When you push the brake pedal, it depresses a piston, which allows hydraulic fluid to travel to a slave cylinder at each wheel. As these pistons move, it controls the pressure applied to each brake.

Why Is My Vehicle Vibrating As I Speed Up and Slow DownThe brake pad is attached to the caliper, which presses up against the brake rotor to cause friction, ultimately slowing and stopping your vehicle.

If you notice a vibration, one or more components of this process no longer work the way they should. It’s possible the brake rotors have worn down, and are no longer circular in shape, meaning the brake pad can’t make proper connection. Or the brake calipers are warped, resulting in excessive heat when the brake pedal is pushed down.

If the components don’t connect in the way the system was designed, you’ll notice a difference in the way your car drives.

Wheel balance

Everyday wear can do a lot to your vehicle. With every bump you hit, every corner you cut too sharp, even minor imperfections from the factory can all give way to unequal weight distribution throughout your four tires.

You’ll feel it in the way your vehicle performs, with even an ounce of difference being noticeable in the way your car handles. While you may feel it at lower speeds, at around 45 miles per hour, the vibration will intensify.

Periodically, it’s important to bring your car in for a tune-up and to rotate your tires. This allows a technician to check all four wheels, find imbalances, and adjust the weights so all four tires match once again.

This also gives a mechanic a chance to evaluate your wheels thoroughly, ensuring one isn’t bent, damaged, or otherwise unsafe for you to continue to drive on. This alerts you to problems before they become bigger, and put you at risk.

Tires

Even if your wheels are in good condition, your tires may have a problem, causing your vehicle to vibrate as it operates. If you bring your vehicle in for a mechanic to check, he will look at:

  • Tire pressure, to ensure each tire is properly adjusted
  • Connections, to ensure lug nuts are all properly torqued
  • Tire wear, to ensure the tread is being evenly worn across the tire
  • Tread, to ensure it has ample tread to safely drive
  • Balance

Even if you’ve replaced your tires recently, one or more of these issues can lead to a problem with the way your vehicle performs. Fixing it quickly will prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Axle

Your car’s axle is the central shaft used for rotating the gears and wheels of your car. It gives you control over your car to turn the vehicle and go in any direction you choose.

A bent axle can occur from bumping a curb, a minor accident, or hitting a speed bump or pothole. Once bent, it can continue to worsen the more you drive.

In most cases, your vehicle has two axles, one to rotate the front wheels, and one for the back. Larger vehicles that carry more passengers may have more. They can wear down over time from dust, dirt, and other debris accumulating on the joints. And any damage can weaken the system, creating a vibration, especially as you pick up speed.

Steering

The steering wheel is used to turn your vehicle and keep it under control. The steering wheel is attached to a track rod, which is used to control the wheels, moving them right or left, depending on which way you turn. Ball bearings are used to connect tie rods to the steering arms, providing you with control. Each of these is connected to the wheels.

Most modern day vehicles use a rack and pinion gearset, which provides greater ease for turning. A notched rod – the rack extends out from the track rod. The steering shaft ends with a round gear called a pinion. As you move the wheel, the pinion moves through the notches on the rack, giving you control to move the vehicle to the left or right. This process is what gives you better control over the movements of your vehicle.

If each of these parts isn’t in proper alignment, they can throw off your drivability. It can change your control, and make it more difficult to follow through with turns and movement.

You may start to notice more “play” in the way your steering wheel responds to certain situations. Does it take move turning movement to move through a turn? That’s one of the first indications you may have an issue with something in your steering system.

These issues happen over time. Unless you are involved in an accident, or hit a very large bump, it takes time for minor symptoms to show up in the way your vehicle performs. Yet once you start noticing a change in performance, the faster you get your vehicle in for an inspection, the greater chance you can catch the problem before it grows in severity.

Engine

In most cases, vehicle vibrations will be most noticeable either as you gain speed or slow down.

Occasionally, you might notice your engine running rough, vibrating even as your vehicle is standing still. This is a clear sign of a problem somewhere in the engine. In order for the engine to run smoothly, there needs to be plenty of air, fuel, and spark. If any one of those components is off, your engine will have trouble starting and staying running.

A few things to check include:

  • Dirty or corroded spark plugs
  • A clogged or dirty air filter
  • Dirty fuel injector
  • Clogged fuel filter

The engine is attached to your vehicle with mounts attached to the frame of the body. It uses rubber joints to help absorb vibrations that can occur as you drive. Over time, this rubber can begin to fail, allowing the connection to loosen. That vibration you feel while your car stands still might just be an indication your system needs a little TLC to keep it functioning.

If you feel a vibration in your vehicle, stop by today and we’ll inspect it. Let’s get you back on the road safely once again.

Can Brake Pads Wear Unevenly?

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If your vehicle relies on a disc braking system, it depends on brake pads to create the necessary friction to slow and stop your car.

Without working brake pads, your vehicle wouldn’t have the ability to bring you safely to a stop. That would put you, your vehicle’s occupants, and others on the road in danger.

They are vitally important to how well your car works.

Every time you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads engage, pressing against the spinning disc brake rotors, causing friction, and eventually wearing them down. They are designed to work together, pressing against your front wheels and back wheels with the same pressure. In most circumstances, they will wear down equally on both sides of your vehicle, no matter how much you step on the brake pedal.

However, there are situations where this isn’t so. The brake pads begin to wear, and you discover one is wearing differently than the others. Why is that so?

What causes brakes to wear unevenly?

The braking system works in pairs, with the front brakes and rear brakes wearing differently. As your vehicle moves, the forward movement puts more strain on the front brakes. This is why your front brakes wear faster than the rear.

However, if you notice that one side of your vehicle is wearing differently than the other, the issue is a bit more complicated. It can be caused by several different things.

Disc Thickness Variation

Can Brake Pads Wear Unevenly?Disc thickness variation, or DTV, can be caused by different factors. It’s a mechanical term used to describe when the rotors have different thickness levels, and have worn unevenly over time. It can be caused by sticking calipers, rust, dirt and debris clinging to various parts of the pad and the rotor, or from slamming on the brakes frequently. When this thickness level is different, the brake pads will have to press against the rotor at varying degrees of friction. The rotors will have flat spots, meaning the brake pads will connect at different ratios. This will eventually cause one to wear down faster than the other.

Sticking Calipers

A brake caliper’s job is to connect the brake pads to the rotors. Without the caliper in action, the pad won’t connect properly to the rotor, bringing your vehicle to a halt. Because these brake calipers are under intense pressure and heat, they occasionally get stuck. It can be caused by dirt and grime that build up over time. As they stick, the brake pads can stay connected to the rotors, wearing down faster than usual. And because the calipers work independently on each wheel, it can wear down one faster than the others.

Misaligned Brake Pads

In order for the brake pads to work properly, they must connect with the rotor at the same level and speed every time they move into action. Because a vehicle is built for efficiency, this action is carefully aligned. Every time you start and drive your vehicle, the bumps, jolts, and movement of the vehicle can cause the connections to jar out of place. And sometimes, when you have your brake pads replaced, the mechanic may not align them evenly. All of this impacts the way your brake pads wear. Depending on when you notice this, it might be a simple adjustment. In other cases, your best course of action will be to replace the brake pads again.

Rotor Problems

Here in Colorado, the wheels of your car are in constant battle with the elements. Heat can build up in the summer, then a few months later, your wheels can be facing weeks of cold weather, mag-chloride build-up, as well as salt and gravel. That build-up can accumulate on the rotors, making uneven brake pad wear more possible. Of course, even new rotors can have a problem. If they have grease or dirt on them from where they were stored, the wear discrepancies can begin from the moment you drive away from the shop.

A warped rotor can also cause problems, if the surface isn’t perfectly smooth. This usually happens when cold water contacts a heated rotor. If the rotor isn’t perfectly smooth, the brake pad only connects with it in certain spots. Without full contact, it will wear unevenly over time. This is why you should never spray water into your wheel well immediately after intense driving.

Incorrect Brake Pads

When it comes time to replace your brake pads, it’s equally important to check with your manufacturer’s guidelines and install the type suggested. Don’t use different materials as they might not provide the same quality as designed for your vehicle. They can wear unevenly, and not give a full lifespan..

Can you change brake pads on one side only?

It is not recommended that you replace brake pads one at a time. Even if you have one brake pad worn more than the other side, it’s still preferable to replace them in pairs.

Brakes and rotors typically come in pairs – the front or the rear. Each set of brake pads will wear at the same level, which is why you typically replace them at the same time. If they wear at different levels, it’s still advisable to replace both, even if there is still wear on one. When you replace one with a new brake pad, it will not match the other wheel, which can be a hazard as you drive and attempt to brake.

How do you know if your brakes need to be replaced?

Cars are designed to send signals that it is in need of repair. Rely on your senses to help you determine when something isn’t working the way it should.

Sound – one of the most common ways people know their brake pads are worn is through sound. They make a squealing noise as you apply the brakes.

Sight – you can look at the brake pads periodically to see how worn they are. A general rule states that they should be replaced under a quarter of an inch in thickness.

Touch – do you notice your brake pedal pushes further to the ground for the same action? Does it list to one side or the other? All are indicators of a brake problem.

Smell – you can also notice odd scents that aren’t always there. Do you smell burning rubber? It may be a sign your brake pads need replacing.

Brake pads usually last about 50,000 miles. As always, check with your owner’s manual to determine the right maintenance routine for your vehicle.

If you have any questions, stop by today. We’d be happy to check your braking system, and help you create a plan to keep you and your family safe.

Suspension System Service

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Suspension systems should continue to operate effectively for many years and tens of thousands of miles/kilometers, holding your tires’ footprint on the road.  Eventually components do wear out, but how long that takes depends a lot on how and where you drive.

As you can imagine, if most of your driving is on smooth highways, your vehicle’s shock absorber will last a lot longer than if you do most of your driving on bumpy mountain roads or if you’re often hauling heavy loads.  In addition to just wearing out, upgraded suspension system components can be damaged in an accident or by a hard impact, like hitting a pothole, a curb or a rock in the road.

Because the life span of shocks can vary so widely, your vehicle manufacturer recommends periodic inspections.  During a car inspection at Express Car Care, your service technician will check for worn, broken or missing suspension parts.  If the inspection reveals any problems, we recommend that you take care of them quickly for your safety and ease of handling your vehicle.  When you replace your shocks, it’s usually a good idea to replace all four at the same time.  This will give you even handling at all four corners of the vehicle.

If you have special road handling needs like improved cornering or towing or hauling requirements, your Express Car Care service adviser can recommend an upgraded shock or strut to meet with your needed requirements.  Give us a call or come in and see us and let us know how we can help you with your suspension system services.

Car Maintenance: Does It Matter Where You Park Your Car?

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There are a variety of reasons your car can sit in place for a while. COVID and stay in place regulations have taught us that. Of course, a pandemic isn’t the only reason your car might not move.

  • Retirees may choose not to drive for weeks on end, especially if you live in a walkable community.
  • Work from home professionals may also prefer living in walkable communities, using a vehicle only if they go away for a weekend.
  • Business travelers are often jetting away to faraway places.
  • And if a spouse is deployed overseas for any length of time, their car may sit for months at a time.

Then, of course, there’s also a question of where you park the car. Is it sitting in the elements? Is it under a carport? Or in a garage?

No matter how frequently you operate your vehicle, no matter where you choose to park it, it still needs car maintenance from time to time.

Here’s why.

Where you park your car matters 

If you leave a car parked on the street, it’s subjected to the elements. Bird droppings, fallen leaves, and UV light can all be a problem. It can also be subjected to wind storms, damage from ice and snow, and dents from hail. There may also be safety issues, with more break-in potential, or the risk of being hit from passing cars.

Placing your vehicle in a garage can help protect and support its performance. Being in a closed environment helps a variety of systems and components on the car.

Car Maintenance: Does It Matter Where You Park Your Car?Brakes – Especially here in Colorado, cold weather can take its toll on the braking system. It can accelerate rusting on your brakes, especially if you’re on a busier street that routinely is prepped for ice and snow. Exposure to moisture and things like salt and mag-chloride can make its way to the brake rotors, causing corrosion, or wearing out the brake pads sooner.

Tires – The hot summer sun is just one of the things that can contribute to wearing down your tires. The heat can dry out the rubber on the tires, and cause wall cracks. It can play with the internal air pressure, flattening the tire over time. And as that happens, it twists your tire out of shape, causing flat spots in the rubber.

Battery – The only way to keep your car’s battery operating correctly is to charge it up from time to time. But it takes more than turning it on; it needs to move and drive, even if it’s just a short ten minute ride. Excessive heat, as well as winter cold spurts, can all impact the battery fluid, and shorten the life of the battery. It may start, but will it stay running? And once a battery is damaged, it will stop running altogether.

Being in a protected garage can help reduce all of these and more. Being in a protected environment not only helps with the inside, but the outside as well. The paint won’t wear due to sunlight and other elements, and the vehicle will be at less risk for both safety and security reasons.

But it’s not just a garage that can help. Even covered parking can reduce exposure to elements that can cause cosmetic damage.

Weather and other elements are never good for a vehicle’s paint job. Exposure to sun, wind, and ice can cause the paint to oxidize, which causes the paint to fade and peel. Plus, chemicals in bird droppings, fallen leaves, and sap from trees can hurt the paint too.

Paint isn’t just to make your car look good. It also protects the interior and other parts of the car. If rust and corrosion set in, it can move to other areas of your car.

If you leave your vehicle on the street, in the driveway, or on the side of your property, the elements can impact the inside of your car as well. Sunlight can wear down the dashboard and upholstery, while excessive heat can cause cracks and fading.

Of course, there’s no surefire way to keep your car safe or prevent theft. But keeping your car behind closed doors, off the street, or covered will always create a safer environment than leaving your vehicle on the street. If you won’t be moving your car for a while, cover it as much as you can.

Car maintenance for long term parked cars

No matter where you park your car, it’s important to remember that cars aren’t designed to sit still. That’s the fastest way to expedite problems.

No matter how often you plan on operating your vehicle, there are certain things you should do periodically to keep it running well.

One a week:

Start the car and let the engine idle for a few minutes. Before you turn it back off, drive it for an additional few minutes, to get all of the systems in the car operating again. This allows fluids to flow, mechanics to run, and systems to operate. It ensures the components move and aren’t stuck in the same position. You should also pay attention to the gas level, as a full tank keeps the air out, preventing rust and corrosion from settling in.

Once a month:

Continue to drive the vehicle periodically for short distances. This ensures the engine heats up and all systems move positions. Check the oil levels. It shouldn’t change, but it will need changing periodically even without hitting 3,000 miles, depending on how long it will sit. Check tire pressure to ensure it’s at proper levels. This prevents tires from bulging, or from gaining small cracks. You should also check the windshield wipers, ensure they operate, and fill the washer fluid tank. This keeps the wipers in good shape, and prevents them from drying out.

Schedule car maintenance visits:

We often see cars that don’t have much mileage come in for large repairs. It’s important to note that no matter how often you drive your car, you should still have your vehicle checked out by a professional from time to time.

It isn’t only driving and adding mileage that wears down the parts on your vehicle. Age can also have an impact on how well your car operates.

Brakes Service

Oil Change

Suspension

Transmision Service

Engine Service

Auto Tips & Tricks