Express Car Care of Denver

Before Summer Gets Here – Car Maintenance Tips Before The Temperatures Rise

May 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Summertime in the Rockies is the best time of the year. Whether you choose to head up to the mountains to cool down, or drive to a ballgame to sit back and relax, Denver has you covered. There’s so much to do here!

But getting anywhere can be a challenge if you don’t have a reliable car.

Long summers can bring on unpredictable weather. And the summers seem to be getting longer – 89 degrees in April is record-breaking.

What is that doing to your vehicle? As the temperatures continue to rise, follow these summer car maintenance tips to ensure your vehicle is ready for all the action in the coming weeks and months.

What are the most common summer car problems?

Most summertime car problems are predictable. You only have to look at the cars stranded by the side of the road. They include:

Before Summer Gets Here - Car Maintenance Tips Before The Temperatures Rise — White car rushing along a high-speed highway. Toned photo.

An overheated engine – when the car is pulled over and the hood is up with smoke billowing out, you know the engine is in trouble.
Air conditioner problems – your vehicle needs to be in top condition to ensure cool air on the hottest days of the year.
Worn out wiper blades – dust and debris mixed with rain can create a disaster for your windshield. After a bitterly cold winter, old wiper blades can be cracked and worn.
Tire problems – low tire pressure can lead to a variety of system problems. If your tires aren’t in good shape, the blazing heat can cause a tire blowout.
Water pump issues – if the water no longer circulates coolant to the engine, it can overheat and stall the engine.
Fuel leaks – this can impact your fuel economy and efficiency.
Weak battery – batteries can drain from working overtime, keeping your car on the road.

What maintenance items should you focus on before the summer heat sets in?

Having a basic understanding of how your car operates can help you schedule maintenance visits to ensure everything is running well.

Oil change

When was the last time you had an oil change? It’s one of the most common maintenance items drivers do to ensure their cars run well. Most manufacturers today recommend every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but mileage plays a big part of it too. If you work from home and don’t drive as much as you used to, your vehicle may sit there for weeks – months – before it gets close to the limits. It’s still a good idea to circulate fresh oil through your car before the heat of the summer sets in.

Air conditioner

While the air conditioning system might not seem important on a 60 degree day, you’ll be thankful you checked it early as record-heat sets in. As you drive, turn the air conditioner to test the temperature. Do you feel cold air? Does your car cool down quickly? If you notice any trouble with the cooling system, the fix may be as simple as adding refrigerant to give the AC system a boost. If that doesn’t do the trick, further diagnosis will help pinpoint the issue.

Tire pressure

Most vehicles today come with warning systems that illuminate a dashboard light if your tire pressure is outside acceptable limits. It’s still important to check the condition of your tires, and ensure pressure is acceptable, especially before you hit the open road for a family vacation.

There are other ways to ensure your tires are in good operating condition. A visual check can alert you to other problems, such as worn spots on the tread. Uneven patterns could alert you to under or overinflated tires, with the rubber no longer fully connecting with the road. Bring your vehicle in for tire rotation and balancing to ensure a long life.

Vehicle fluids

Your vehicle contains various fluids that keep parts lubricated and working well. Gas and motor oil are at the top of everyone’s list. But drivers often forget to check other crucial fluids, and that can leave you stranded with a car that isn’t working well. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid are equally important for a well-working car. If you aren’t comfortable checking fluid levels, trusting one of our mechanics is a great option. We’re here to ensure your car is in top operating condition for everything you do this summer.

Brakes

What do your summer activities include? Will you be pulling a camper into the mountains? Hauling a boat out for a weekend? Will you be climbing the mountain every weekend looking for adventure? Heat, altitude, and pulling heavy loads can all wear on your car’s braking system. And if they are already compromised from harsh winter roads, it can put you in a precarious situation.

A red flag is if you already notice braking signals, such as a loud squeal when you tap on the brake pedal. Other warning signs can be more subtle, such as a slight vibration in the steering wheel. If your drive has changed in any way, it’s better to bring your car in for an inspection than wait for a problem to arise.

Clean your car

A simple car maintenance tip is to handwash your vehicle from time to time. This lets you get close and personal to every side of your vehicle, which can alert you to bigger problems. Pay attention to tire tread, leaks in the wheel well, or funny smells coming from underneath the hood. A clean car not only looks better, but it ensures your vehicle stays in good operating condition.

Keep your engine cool

Fluid changes and basic maintenance are all great ways to ensure your vehicle stays operational all summer. Yet it still doesn’t take the place of paying attention to how your vehicle acts as you drive. As you head into the mountains, or drive cross country facing record-breaking heat, keep an eye on your dashboard and pay attention to gauges as they change. Don’t try and push your car to the next exit. Or wait for a more convenient time. You risk the engine overheating, and if you don’t give it a break, your repair bills may soar.

The best way to keep your vehicle working at its best is with a full inspection periodically to ensure it’s working well.

When was the last time you brought your car in for standard maintenance? Before summer sets in, schedule your visit today.

Your Car Speed Sensor May Be Bad

April 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

According to Wikipedia, a sensor is a device that produces an output signal for the purpose of sensing a physical phenomenon. It’s a device, module, machine, or subsystem that detects events or changes in its environment and sends the information to other electronic devices. This is frequently a computer processor.

Today’s vehicles are made from over 10,000 parts. Because cars utilize technology for just about every system, they rely heavily on various sensors to ensure it’s operating efficiently. With over 70 sensors throughout the entire vehicle, they are used to control every aspect of performance.

What is a speed sensor?

One of the most common sensors is the speed sensor. Also known as the vehicle speed sensor (VSS), transmission speed sensor, or output shaft speed sensor, this small device determines how fast your vehicle is traveling by measuring the rotation of a wheel located inside the transmission. It produces a low voltage signal that is relayed back into the computer system known as the control module.

The speed sensor is critical in ensuring that your speedometer, cruise control, and transmission all work in unison. If you’re operating your vehicle with a bad speed sensor, you may not know how fast you’re going. That can compromise your safety, your passengers, and those around you.

Speed sensors also impact other systems on your vehicle. They track your travel distance, providing the odometer with an elapsed mileage reading. They are also connected with the handling and stabilizing technologies, so they can help your anti-lock brake system function correctly.

Can I drive my car with a bad speed sensor?

A bad speed sensor won’t bring your car to a halt. But what it will do is prevent you from driving safely down the road. Therefore, it’s important to ensure your speed sensor is working correctly without any problems impeding your journey.

How do you know if you have a bad speed sensor? Luckily, there are a few warning signs to alert you of a problem.

Speedometer problems

This is where many drivers first notice a sensor problem. As you’re driving and look down, you may notice inconsistent or erratic speedometer readings. You may see no reading at all.

Your car won’t stop working. However, you won’t be able to determine how fast you’re going. It will be guesswork at best. If you notice the speedometer acting odd, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection.

Cruise control problems

In most cases, the cruise control system depends on input from the vehicle speed sensor to operate. If you have a faulty speed sensor, it won’t connect with the cruise control, and you won’t be able to use it.

That’s because the powertrain control module is designed to automatically disable the cruise control when it fails to properly connect with the speed sensor. It does this because it would be impossible to maintain a constant speed without the interaction. It’s a safety feature designed for your protection.

If you notice a problem with your cruise control, have a mechanic check it over to see if you have a sensor problem.

Transmission problems

The vehicle speed sensor is used by the transmission control module to determine shift timing. If the speed sensor isn’t working correctly, it has a direct impact on how well the automatic transmission operates.

One of the most common signs of a bad speed sensor is an issue with the automatic transmission. You may notice symptoms such as a delay in shifting, hard shifts, or trouble with gear operation.

Because this has a direct impact on the safety of your vehicle, it’s imperative to bring your vehicle in immediately if you start having trouble.

Check engine light

The check engine light is one of the most common lights you’ll see displayed on your dashboard. That’s because it’s triggered by a variety of issues impacting your transmission and engine.

If it’s a bad speed sensor, it will trigger the check engine light warning you of a potential problem. In addition, you might also see the ABS light due to an issue between the connections of the sensor and the anti-lock brake system.

As with any light appearing on your dashboard, when one illuminates, schedule a maintenance visit with a mechanic.

How do you fix a speed sensor malfunction?

Some parts have specific replacement schedules. You know your motor oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles or so.

But speed sensors don’t come with specific guidelines for maintenance and replacement. Speed sensors can wear down based on various things. If you drive in extreme weather conditions, ice, snow, road salt, and other chemicals can wear down the sensor faster than in more temperate conditions.

Speed sensors can also malfunction if:

The speed sensor was installed incorrectly
There’s an electrical fault in the speed sensor wiring
The speed sensor and the electronic control unit are disconnected
You have a defective speed sensor
You don’t properly maintain your car

Like other maintenance items, you’ll find plenty of guidance online on how to replace a bad sensor yourself. But if you don’t have the proper knowledge, it can impact the way your vehicle operates. That’s why it’s usually best if you rely on a mechanic to replace a bad speed sensor and ensure your vehicle is operating at its best.

If you observe any of the symptoms from above, or notice your vehicle isn’t operating as it should, bring it in for a full inspection to determine where the problem begins. This ensures your car continues to drive safely out on the open road, and prevents larger maintenance items to the transmission or engine in the future. A faulty speed sensor can impact both transmission and the engine; without proper maintenance, it will impact future issues with the performance of your car.

Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Pickup Truck Working Hard For Years

April 24, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When people invest in a pickup truck, it isn’t just a mode of transportation. Owning a pickup truck is a way of life.

If people are considering buying a sedan or a crossover, they look at online reviews, or compare brands and models. But owning a pickup truck is different. When people research a new truck, they search for things like:

How can I make my truck last longer?
What’s the most reliable long lasting pickup?
What’s considered high mileage for a pickup truck

They have their hearts set on an investment they plan to last for a very long time. It becomes a trusted friend.

With that in mind, it’s not just about the brand you choose or the model you select. Instead, it’s about creating a workhorse that will be there for you when you need it. You go into it realizing that proper maintenance will prolong your pickup truck’s life; therefore, it becomes a regular part of your routine.

How do you ensure all of that?

Never miss an oil change

Motor oil is considered the lifeblood of any vehicle. Therefore it makes sense to stick to a schedule and change the motor oil frequently. While experts in the past have recommended oil changes every 3,000 miles, that may no longer apply. With new technology and the advancement in motor oil, most vehicles can now go 5,000 to 10,000 miles in between oil changes.

Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Pickup Truck Working Hard For Years

Keep in mind that it also depends on your driving. Working from home is different from using your truck for hauling each day. Do you use your truck off-road? Do you use it for heavy towing? That can make a big difference in how well your truck runs, and how often you should add fresh oil to keep things working.

For older trucks, be sure to change your oil filter every time you change your oil. Select the best oil to suit your needs. With a wide range of options, refer to your owner’s manual for guidance, or talk with a mechanic to ensure you add the proper viscosity for your truck.

Rotate your tires

Drivers often think changing the oil is the most important task for wear, and it is. But your tires are equally as important. By having your tires rotated when you change out your motor oil, you ensure that your tires will wear more evenly. Depending on how you use your truck each day, you’ll typically find the front tires wear more than the back. By rotating them, you can extend the life of your tires, as well as ensure your truck’s suspension system runs smoothly too. This will also allow a mechanic to do a visual inspection of the suspension system, and see if there are any alignment issues to be concerned with. It gives you a chance to fix smaller issues before they become full-blown problems.

Watch tire pressure

Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles will extend the life of your tires. Yet if the tire pressure runs low as you drive each day, it can result in putting more stress on the tire surface, and even cause a blowout or accident.

Over and underinflation can be problematic for a tire. While it can cause issues on dry terrain, it increases in danger in inclement weather. Pay attention to the recommended tire pressure for the tires you install on your vehicle. You can find it in your owner’s manual, or somewhere in the door jamb. Keep a tire gauge handy, and check it regularly when filling up your gas tank. If you notice a problem with a tire losing air, get it checked immediately.

Wheel alignments are necessary

Do you drive off-road? Do you haul heavy loads? There’s a greater chance wheels may not be in alignment, which can impact your vehicle’s suspension.

When your wheels aren’t in alignment, you’ll cause greater wear on both your tires and wheels. That impacts everything from the way your truck handles to the fuel economy efficiency. It will cause poor handling, and can slowly impact other components on your vehicle.

Do you notice your truck pulling to one side as you drive? Is the steering wheel crooked when you drive straight? Have you noticed uneven tire wear? All are symptoms of a bigger problem with your wheel alignment. Get it fixed quickly to ensure all other components stay working well.

Know your road well

Owner’s manuals are designed for average driving conditions. The manufacturer and mechanic’s checklists provide you with the important aspects of keeping your truck running well. But only you know what you put your vehicle through in a year. Do you take short daily trips? Or do you use your truck for hauling all day?

Driving conditions change depending on what you do. Some may require high idle situations, while others may pack on the dirt and mud. If your truck undergoes more rigorous driving, be sure to stop for an inspection more often. An expert has the necessary tools to ensure everything is working at its best.

This allows a mechanic to check the battery, analyze the brake system, and see if the spark plugs are functioning. It gives them a chance to perform a diagnostic test, and fine tune the various parts to ensure everything is working.

What does your pickup truck need for a long life?

Every vehicle is different. Every pickup truck has different needs. From motor oil changes to a new brake system, and everything in between.

Instead of waiting for your truck to fail, be proactive, and it will respond with a long life. Pay attention to the way you drive, and to the noises you hear. Things rarely fail without advanced warning.

Pickup trucks are a valuable investment, one that can last for years. Why not take care of it in the best way possible to ensure a long life. With these maintenance tips, you’ll keep your trusted friend parked in the garage for a very long time.

Extend The Life of Your Vehicle With These Easy Maintenance Tips

April 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

If you’ve shopped for a new car lately, you might have had sticker shock at how much prices have increased.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price for a new car has skyrocketed to just over $47,000.

Does that make you look at your current car a bit differently?

Want to extend the life of your vehicle, and ensure it stays running for a very long time? With these easy maintenance tips, your car will continue to run well for years to come.

Get started by reading your owner’s manual

Many vehicle owners can’t even remember where their owner’s manual is. But it’s one of the most important guides to have as a vehicle owner. Spend some time reviewing the recommended maintenance items. Manufacturers know their vehicles best, and will give you specific guidelines for maintenance and care. Following their “insider” tips will ensure your car stays running well for life.

We also recommend establishing a logbook for your vehicle. Keep it small, and carry it in your glove compartment. Record each of your maintenance visits, and update it with repair work. This gives you a way to see what you’ve done and what’s needed next at a glance.

Never push a cold car

When you rise in the morning, you stretch, move slowly, maybe reach for a cup of coffee. You have wake-up routines to help get you going. Your car works in a similar manner as it brings the various systems to life. Cars don’t need a lengthy warm-up process, but it is wise to let them get to operating temperature before pushing the engine to its full service.

Extend The Life of Your Vehicle With These Easy Maintenance Tips

Pay attention to your dashboard

Pilots have a checklist they run through before climbing into the cockpit for takeoff. Car owners would benefit if they had a similar process. Today’s modern vehicles come with over two dozen computer modules working to keep your car functioning, hundreds of electrical components keeping everything together, with an array of sensors keeping you safe and alerting you to potential problems.

When one of those dashboard icons illuminates, it’s important to act immediately. But the statistics show that the majority of drivers on the road today have no idea what most of those lights mean. If your “check engine” icon lights up, what will you do? People often keep driving, promising themselves they’ll “fix it” when they have time. Trouble is, these same drivers travel hundreds of miles until it escalates into a bigger problem, with a much larger repair bill. Even if money is tight, you’re much better getting these issues checked immediately to avoid even more costly repair bills in the future.

Check and replace fluids regularly

Most of us check and replace motor oil regularly. But when it comes to checking and replacing other fluids, we may not do so with such regularity. Today’s cars use a variety of fluids for lubrication, circulation, and to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Wear and tear can compromise these fluids, which in turn can impact the various parts and components it’s designed to service.

Basic fluids your vehicle relies on include:

Motor oil
Coolant or antifreeze
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Transmission fluid
Windshield washer fluid

Motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or so. Other fluids might last a lot longer. This is where getting to know your owner’s manual is a good idea, and can help you place inspections into your schedule.

Check your tires

Tire pressure helps regulate how well your vehicle handles. While a dashboard light may illuminate when tire pressure is low, it’s still a good idea to pay attention to pressure level. It helps your tires last longer, and impacts fuel efficiency with every tank of gas you use.

You should also inspect your tires regularly, and ensure they aren’t wearing unevenly or getting low on tire tread. Colorado weather can be harsh on tire wear, dealing with extreme cold in the winter followed by blazing heat in the summer. If your tires don’t have proper tread, your safety is more at risk.

Keep it clean

While it might seem like a simple maintenance tip, keeping your car clean is one you should fit regularly into your calendar. Colorado roads are filled with chemicals from snow removal strategies. Mag-chloride can stick to your undercarriage and wreak havoc on paint and other components. Road tar in the summer is equally as damaging, sticking to the paint and deteriorating the integrity.

Washing it regularly will help retain its value. Regular waxing will also provide added protection, reducing the chances of rust and other blemishes.

Plan out your trips

The hardest thing on your engine, the one thing that increases wear and tear is starting up your vehicle and traveling short distances. Cold starts are the hardest on your car. We’ve grown used to running short errands depending on our needs and desires. But if you can plan out your trips and bunch them together, your engine will thank you. The most power goes into a cold start. Once you have it running, keep it running for a while to ensure everything is well charged and running optimally.

When you do buy a new vehicle

There comes a point in time where we all purchase a new vehicle. In today’s world, a new car is a valuable purchase.

Extend the life of your vehicle with simple maintenance items. Start your car’s life outright by being gentle for the first 1,000 miles. This is when any impurities left in the system after production are still working their way through the system. Being gentle on your engine means they’ll flow through without incident.

Then bring your vehicle in for a 3,000 mile motor oil change, and a quick inspection to ensure everything is running with ease. Following these simple steps will ensure your car’s engine will run well for thousands of miles, and you’ll be happy with the vehicle you purchased.

How can we help you with your regular maintenance needs?

Car Maintenance Tips That Will Improve Fuel Efficiency

April 18, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

As cars first became a mainstay in our everyday lives, fuel efficiency wasn’t even on our radar. Early manufacturers paid more attention to how fast a car could go, or how comfortable it was.

Still, cars in the early twentieth century consumed fuel very well. Ford’s Model T got up to 21 miles to the gallon. That’s only 6 miles per gallon less than the average car sold today.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that fuel efficiency became more popular. The Arab oil embargo created a worldwide shortage, causing fuel prices to skyrocket, and talks resumed about improving vehicles for less reliance on oil.

What is fuel efficiency?

Fuel efficiency refers to how well your vehicle consumes fuel. It’s become a key consideration when consumers search for new vehicles, and is currently driving the electric car market.

Fuel efficiency refers to how far a car can go with the fuel it consumes. It measures in miles per gallon, and is one of the main ways manufacturers can differentiate themselves from the competition.

Fuel efficiency is relative to other cars around it. Consumers shop based on their needs. A person with a fifty-mile commute each day may have different needs than someone who works remotely. Their needs and beliefs drive what cars they purchase, ultimately driving demand.

Fuel efficiency isn’t just about how many miles per gallon. Fuel efficiency also impacts how much pollution a car releases into the environment. As we’ve become more aware of how emissions affect global warming, manufacturers have once again gone back to the drawing board, looking for ways to make cars better.

Car Maintenance Tips That Will Improve Fuel Efficiency

A more efficient car saves on how much a vehicle consumes, as well as how much it pollutes. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, increasing fuel efficiency is a start.

But it isn’t the only way.

Car maintenance can also make a difference. If a vehicle is well cared for, it runs cleaner and pollutes less no matter how many miles per gallon it gets.

Where do you start?

Regular tune ups make a car more efficient

When you visit your doctor once a year, it’s designed to check in and ensure everything is working well. Simple blood tests can reveal areas of concern.

Tune ups are designed similarly. It’s a way to bring your vehicle in for a check up, to ensure the engine is working well and doesn’t need repair. Your car’s engine is the heart of the system, and keeps many of the other parts working well. If a problem exists within the engine compartment, it can bring down efficiencies throughout the system. The Department of Energy has stated that when a car fails an emissions test, repairing it can improve performance anywhere from 4 to 40 percent.

Balance, rotate, and inflate your tires

The tires help connect you to the road, and provide proper support as you drive along. If they aren’t doing their job effectively, you’ll see the evidence in multiple ways.

It starts with ensuring they are properly inflated. Under-inflating them will decrease the surface area that connects with the road. Too much tire pressure, and you increase the strain, increasing the chance that they might blow.

Because your tires move and change regularly, it’s a good idea to have them rotated and balanced to keep them in their best condition. Manufacturers recommend balancing and rotating every 3,000 to 6,000 miles, or whenever you notice a problem. Balance issues often result in a vibration in your steering wheel, seat, or floor. This is a good time to pull in and ensure everything is working well.

Change the motor oil

When it comes to changing your car’s oil, stick with a regular schedule. The general rule is 3 months of 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Today’s cars are more efficient than ever, with many manufacturers increasing recommendations. Check with your owner’s manual for what’s best for your vehicle.

As motor oil ages, it gets thicker and decreases the overall efficiency inside the engine. It can cause more friction, which in turn creates more heat. With increased heat comes a higher burn level, which means more fuel is burned with every turn of the engine.

Be sure to use the correct oil made for your car. If you stick with the recommended grade, you may boost fuel efficiency by as much as two percent.

Clean out the air filter

When you get an oil change, clean or change out the air filter too. It’s a component that helps eliminate pollutants that may otherwise damage your engine. A dirty air filter doesn’t have the ability to filter out particles that can cause damage inside the system.

Change out the spark plugs

Spark plugs help ignite the fuel as it moves into the engine. If they stop working or misfire, you’ll lose out on efficiency. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them about every 30,000 miles.

Slow down

Americans have an addiction to speed. And while that may be a huge safety concern, it also impacts fuel efficiency.

Up to about 60 miles per hour, your vehicle will generally burn less fuel as it picks up speed. However, after 50 miles per hour, the drag starts to require more fuel to keep the vehicle moving. Studies show this can be as high as 25 cents a gallon for every 5 miles per hour you increase. If you drive a lot of highway miles, the savings from slowing down can add up over time.

How can you improve fuel efficiency?

One of the easiest ways to keep your car in top condition is to pull in for an inspection on a regular basis.

This will keep your car operating well. It also reduces your chance of being stranded away from home.

When was the last time you scheduled an inspection?

How Worn Out Shocks and Struts Can Cause An Accident

April 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

How long can you drive on worn out shocks and struts? It depends. Like other parts on your vehicle, they rarely fail overnight. Instead, it’s a process where they gradually wear down, causing more problems with your drive. Eventually, their failure can lead to an accident.

But before shocks and struts fail, they start giving warning signals. That’s where you should start paying attention. This gives you ample warning, and provides you with enough time to get them replaced.

How shocks and struts work

Shocks and struts work as stabilizers. Every turn you make, every time you accelerate or step on the brakes, the shocks and struts work to keep your vehicle under control. Without shocks and struts, you would feel every bump in the road.

Today’s vehicles use shocks, struts, or a combination of the two. Though the two are often used interchangeably, there is a difference. Shocks are individual components of the suspension system, while struts are a structural component.

A shock absorbers job is to control the spring and suspension movement by converting kinetic energy into heat energy, and dissipating it through hydraulic fluid. All modern day shock absorbers are velocity sensitive, which means with faster movement comes more resistance. That allows the shock absorber to adjust to the varying road conditions. This protects you from bouncing, swaying, or diving as you stop and go in traffic.

How Worn Out Shocks and Struts Can Cause An Accident

A strut is a structural part of the suspension, taking the place of the control arm and upper ball joint of the conventional system. It’s lighter and takes up less space than a shock absorber. Struts provide the same damping function as shock absorbers. But they also provide structural support for the vehicle’s suspension. It supports the spring, and keeps the tire in alignment. It also bears the side load placed on the suspension. While struts also provide comfort and handling, they also are designed for wheel alignment and prevent wear on other parts of the suspension system.

How shocks and struts can cause an accident

Shocks and struts gradually wear out over time. You’ll start noticing a difference in the way your vehicle handles as you drive. If they fail, it can lead to an accident as you:

Drive over bumps and dips

If your shocks and struts aren’t working, you lose your ability to navigate. Bumps and dips can cause vibration, which may cause you to lose control over your vehicle. Taking a speed bump too fast may make it feel like your car is “flying.”

Steer around curves and turns

If your vehicle isn’t properly gripping the road, it can cause you to over or understeer, putting you in a dangerous situation.

Lose control over your brakes

Your shocks and struts and anti-lock braking system work together to help you drive. If your shocks and struts aren’t working, that passes into your braking system. If you’re driving along on a bumpy road, for example, you may lose control over your steering, and not have the ability to brake for other objects in your path.

Cause other parts to wear down faster

Your vehicle consists of 10,000 working parts, all coming together to help you stay comfortable and safe while you drive. If one part wears down and fails, it impacts every other part of the system. Shocks and struts can affect a variety of parts, including tires, brakes, and more. Following a regular maintenance schedule is the easiest way to ensure every component is working well to help you drive safely down the road.

What are the warning signs of failing shocks and struts?

Luckily, shocks and struts don’t wear down without warning. If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an appointment with a mechanic as soon as possible.

You feel a constant up and down movement as you drive, especially at higher speeds. The movement may be slight, but once you notice it, it’s time for an inspection.
When you turn, you notice the vehicle leans to one side or the other. It feels wobbly as it completes the action for the turn.
The front end dives down as you brake, especially when you hard brake. You may feel like you need to apply more pressure to come to a complete stop.
The rear squats down as you accelerate as the front end rises, especially with hard acceleration.
You feel bouncing from the tires, especially as you hit a bump or dip in the road. It may bounce for some time, or produce a clunking noise as it bounces.
You notice unusual tire wear. This is because the tires aren’t fully connecting with the road.
You notice a fluid leak around the shocks and struts. This is a sign the seal is broken and it no longer can properly function.

Is it dangerous to drive with bad shocks and struts?

In short, the answer is: Yes.

Like other parts on your vehicle, each is installed for safety and functionality. If one part isn’t working correctly, it impacts all other parts within the system.

That’s why as the pilot of your vehicle, it’s important to pay attention to how your car drives. If your car feels unstable, or it tips to the side as you drive, or you feel it bouncing with acceleration or stopping, or you see any fluid leaks, it’s time to schedule an inspection.

Shocks and struts are sold and replaced in pairs. While it’s not required to replace the front and rear shocks or struts at the same time, it’s usually suggested. Because shocks and struts wear down at the same rate, if one pair needs replacing, the others won’t be far behind it. It’s easier to get them all replaced at the same time.

Is it time to replace your shocks and struts? Have you noticed a change in the way your vehicle drives?

Don’t wait for more problems to arise, Schedule your inspection today and keep your car in good working condition. Your comfort and safety may depend on it.

What It Means If Your Accelerator Sticks

April 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

There are two things you rely on exclusively as you drive: your accelerator and your brakes. It’s a constant motion of applying pressure to one pedal and then the other as you move from point A to B.

In most cases, both work flawlessly. You tap, and they respond.

When an accelerator sticks, it can be a scary experience. While it doesn’t happen often, if the gas pedal sticks it’s both frightening and a dangerous situation. In an instant, the car jolts forward, accelerating without being responsive to the pressure you put on the brakes.

You don’t have time to think; you react. Your instincts will kick in. And the more knowledge you have about how acceleration and braking work, the better your response.

How an accelerator works

An accelerator controls how fast or slow your vehicle moves down the road. When you press the accelerator pedal towards the floor, it opens the throttle valve, which allows fuel to flow into the engine. This causes the vehicle to move faster.

Mechanically speaking, the accelerator is the controller of the fuel flow rate into the combustion chamber. The more you press down on the accelerator pedal, the more fuel is added to the combustion chamber, the more fuel is burned to power your car and move it into action.

While this process has experienced little change over the years, newer cars have built in safety sensors to help protect you as you drive. The accelerator pedal is wired with three sensors. If all sensors agree with one another, the car speeds and moves according to your actions. If any one sensor is off, it triggers a warning. If all sensors disagree, it places the engine in idle.

What causes an accelerator to stick?

The accelerator sticking could be caused by a variety of things.

If the floor mat rides up, it can become wedged underneath the accelerator pedal.
It may be from frictional wear of the braking mechanism.
Defective electronic controls may cause it to stick.
It could be electromagnetic interference somewhere in the system.

While this isn’t a common problem, it does happen from time to time. Would you know what to do if your accelerator sticks?

When an accelerator sticks

What It Means If Your Accelerator Sticks

It’s only natural to panic when something doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to. Yet remaining calm, cool, and collected is what’s needed to bring your vehicle to a stop. If the accelerator sticks, you should:

Stay calm

The first step is to move past the sudden feeling of panic. Take a deep breath, and realize you can fix this. There are workarounds, so it’s important to stay calm and work quickly to bring your car under control.

Shift to neutral

The most important thing to do is to decrease the car’s speed. To do so, shift your engine to neutral gear. This allows the engine to still rev, but it will cause the car’s speed to stop increasing. If you have a manual transmission, don’t forget to use the clutch as you shift gears.

Don’t play with the key or ignition button. You want to have access to your brakes, and control over the navigation system. This would take all power away.

If you can’t get the gears to shift to neutral, you should move to the side of the road, or out of traffic if possible. Apply your emergency brake to bring your vehicle to a stop.

Turn your hazard lights on

This is a signal to other drivers that there’s a potential problem with your vehicle. It brings instant awareness to whoever sees the hazard signals, and allows them to slow and give you plenty of room.

Apply the brakes

If you are able to shift to neutral, the next step is to apply your brakes. Do this slowly, monitoring the situation as you continue to slow down the car. Try not to pump the brakes, as this will deactivate the power brakes.

Navigate to the side of the road or other safe place

If possible, steer your car to a safe place away from other motorists. Give yourself plenty of room to be able to park, exit your car, and move to safety. Only then should you turn the ignition off and apply the emergency brake if possible.

Inspect your pedals

You can do a quick check to see if something is wedged under the pedal, causing it to stick. It may be the floor mat, or something smaller like a pen.

Call for help

If it’s not the floor mat or some other obstruction, it’s time to call for help. Tow your vehicle to a mechanic to have them assess the problem. Do not drive the vehicle until the situation is evaluated and the problem is fixed.

Maintenance to prevent accelerator problems

While a sticking accelerator can be caused by human error, it can also be from mechanical and electrical issues.

To prevent human error, ensure the inside of your car is clean and free of debris. Never allow anything to pile up on the driver’s side, especially near the pedals. Water bottles, purse straps, and office items like pens and paper clips should be kept off the driver’s side floor board. If you have a mat that isn’t form-fitting, it might be time to replace the mats.

Ice and snow can also impact the way the pedal works. On days where you’re in and out with ice and snow, water can accumulate and saturate certain types of mats. If it presses against the pedal mechanism, it can freeze the line.

While mechanical and electrical issues are rare, they can happen. It can be:

A malfunction with a component in the engine compartment
A defective vacuum hose
A faulty accelerator link

With regular inspections, a mechanic will test individual aspects of the system, and ensure all parts are working and in optimal condition. It’s the best way to ensure your vehicle is running, no matter what the conditions are like around you as you drive.

Have you ever experienced an accelerator sticking as you drive?

What Cold and Heat Does To Tires

April 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Living in Colorado can give you a wide array of environmental challenges, sometimes all in the same day. Statistics show temperatures have climbed as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit and dipped as low as -61. We’ve had more than 75 inches of snow in a 24-hour period, and have had hailstones as large as 4.83 inches in diameter.

Stick around, and you’ll see it all.

But those kinds of variances can be hard on your tires. What do cold and heat do to tires? Should you be more careful in certain driving conditions? What puts your tires at risk?

Why tires are susceptible to changes in weather conditions

What are tires made of? Most people would say: rubber. That’s only partially correct.

Rubber is one of the main materials used in tire production, but there are as many as 200 different components combined to create new tires. Steel, nylon, silica, polyester, carbon, petroleum, as well as natural and synthetic rubber are all used to make tires stronger, better. It’s complex engineering to make tires do what they do best.

The outside tread creates traction and mileage. Inside the tire provides stability and strength. Together it helps your vehicle perform well out on the open road, as well as keep you safe no matter where you drive.

Tires are often created with certain performance requirements in mind. That’s why you’ll find a variety of types: snow, all-season, performance, and traction.

Depending on what tires are mounted to your vehicle will determine how susceptible they are to the driving conditions. Cold weather decreases tire pressure while hot weather increases.

As temperatures outside rise, the air in your tires increases in volume. As temperatures fall, the air volume in the tires decreases. That’s why your car’s computer module may indicate your tires are low in pressure after a plunge in temperatures outside. In general, tire pressure usually drops 1 to 2 psi for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. That’s also why air pressure will rise as your tires warm up as you drive.

Every tire manufacturer produces tires with a recommended psi. This psi tells you the optimal pressure for your tires and your car. However, this psi is set for cool tires. If you check your tire inflation at the filling station after your tires have warmed, it will be a different reading from when they were cool. It’s best to check your tires at home, if possible, before your tires have a chance to warm up.

Summer driving

As the temperatures continue to climb in summertime, your tires increase in volume and may overinflate. Most technology systems are wired to tell you when your tires are underinflated, but not when they are overinflated. This is why it’s important to test your tires manually periodically, especially with record-breaking heat or if you’re driving more than usual.

This can be especially true if you take long trips, or are carrying heavy loads. This is why tires blow on occasion.

Coupled with improper inflation is weakened tread. Tire tread is measured in 1/32 of an inch. If you have uneven wear patterns in the tread of more than 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace your tires. You can also do the penny test. Place a penny in a shallow groove on a tire with Lincoln’s head facing down. Can you see the top of his head? That means the tire tread is too shallow, and your tires are considered worn. The tire tread is 2/32 of an inch or less, and it’s time to replace your tires.

Winter driving

In winter, the opposite is true. Your tires may become underinflated in cold weather, and the tire pressure may drop accordingly. Unlike in summer months, air pressure readings will be accurate. Your vehicle’s computer system will be more likely to pick up on proper inflation of your tires.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still check it manually on your own from time to time. Don’t forget your spare.

You should also pay attention to driving conditions, and perform a manual check if problems arise. Snow and ice wreak havoc on our roads. Potholes, hitting curbs, icy terrain – it can all wear your tires down. Be conscious of any potential problems that may impact your tires, and have them checked before you continue driving.

Heat and cold impact tires. Don’t drive if you suspect a problem.

Tires are designed for a multitude of purposes:

They support and cushion the weight of a vehicle
They absorb the shocks occurring as you drive on a road
They provide traction in different driving conditions
They add torque and braking force as they connect to the pavement
They allow you to easily keep control of the vehicle as you change and move the direction in which you travel

Without high-quality tires, you’ll be putting you and those around you at risk.

You should never drive on bad tires. It’s something you should check on a regular basis to ensure they are in good shape.

However, your tires wear and performance can change quickly in different situations.

If tires lack tread, you can pick up on it with visual checks. But if they are over or underinflated, it may be more difficult to notice as you drive.

Awareness is key in keeping your vehicle safe and under control.

If tires are weakened or lack tread, they are more vulnerable to the dangers of the road. Punctures and blowouts can happen more frequently, putting you and your passengers at risk.

Don’t wait to change your tires, replace them if damaged, or even have them checked if you suspect a problem. The sooner you react, the better your chance of fixing the problem, and possibly adding more life to your tires. Proper inflation can add many more miles of life to your tires.

How can we help you maintain your vehicle?

How Do I Know If My Brake Rotors Are Bad?

April 3, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

A faulty brake system is never good. While many drivers are clued into listening for a high-pitched squealing noise, indicating their brake pads have come to the end of their lives, it’s more difficult to pinpoint brake rotor problems. When brake rotors are bad, they have several distinctive ways of telling you they are in need of replacement.

What are brake rotors?

If you peer into your wheels, you’ll notice circular discs connected to each wheel. These are your brake rotors. Rotors are designed to turn motion into heat. They transfer kinetic energy into thermal energy to ensure safe braking. As you press down on the brake pedal, it sends a signal to the master cylinder, to the brake calipers, causing the brake pads to press together against the surface of the brake rotor. This friction resists the spinning wheel, which slows the rotation, eventually bringing the vehicle to a halt.

Different types of brake rotors

Just like there are different types of vehicles, so are there several different types of brake rotors. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all component. Check with your owner’s manual to determine what’s right for your vehicle.

Depending on what vehicle you drive, you’ll have one of four primary brake rotors on the market today.

Blank & Smooth – these are the most common rotors for passenger vehicles. They are simple in design and affordable. However, as automotive practices change, some of these rotors may be created from recycled materials, meaning they don’t perform as well or last as long as other rotors. Typically they have a longer life because of a thicker material and internal fins, which allow them to cool brake pads more efficiently. You’ll notice the smooth, blank metal surface area if it uses this rotor.

Drilled – drilled rotors have slots positioned around the exterior rotor surface instead of holes. These holes provide heat loss as well as allow dust and water to escape the rotor’s surface without clogging or blocking the entire braking system. Drilled rotors are more common in wet climates where they can aid drivers in keeping control over their vehicles on wet roads. They won’t last as long in high heat situations.

How Do I Know If My Brake Rotors Are Bad?

Slotted – slotted rotors have slots positioned around the exterior of the rotors. They are most often used in heavy-duty trucks and SUVs, as these vehicles typically require more stopping power. They may also be used on other vehicles that routinely tow heavy loads. The slots draw in extra air between the rotors and the brake pads. This gives the rotors better cooling and heat dissipation. Like drilled rotors, they wear down faster and won’t last as long.

Drilled and slotted – these rotors combine the best of both drilled and slotted rotors. They use both drilled holes and slots set in a spiral pattern to help with better heat dissipation and debris removal. You’ll find these on high-performance vehicles that require top-tier cooling and heat removal to achieve their performance. They are also at the top of the expense list.

What are the signs of bad rotors?

When brake rotors wear down, they produce a number of signs to warn you of a potential problem. Acting fast may reduce the repair work, and will also prevent further damage to the braking system.

A vibration in the steering wheel

This can’t be missed. As you press down on the brake pedal, a noticeable vibration occurs in the steering wheel. As you step on the brake, the brake pads press against the rotors, and the rotors gain heat quickly. This heat can cause the rotors to wear down unevenly, creating unevenness across the surface area. As the brake pad hits these wear marks, it causes the vibration to move up the braking system and into the steering wheel.

A screeching sound

You can’t miss a screeching sound. It’s caused when the brake pads engage with a rotor that has developed grooves over time. As the surface area of the pads connects with the rotor, it creates a high-pitched sound that’s hard to ignore. You won’t have to ask twice if your brakes need a little TLC. A mechanic can pinpoint the problem, whether it stems from the brake pads, brake rotors, or somewhere else in the system.

A blue color on the rotor surface

Excessive heat can quite literally change the color of the rotors. To check for blue spots on the rotor, kneel down and look beyond the wheels and wheel spokes. The rotor disc sets behind. If you notice a blue color anywhere on the surface, it’s worth a trip to the mechanics. If heat is compromising the brake rotor in any way, the damage could extend throughout the braking system. That puts you at risk every time you drive.

Excessive wear

When a manufacturer designs every part on a vehicle, they set guidelines in place as to how it will perform under normal wear. That changes situation to situation. Your car may stay within the guidelines, or may move beyond depending on what you face each day. That’s why it’s a good idea to perform visual checks from time to time, as well as schedule regular maintenance visits to ensure everything is working well.

How to avoid rotor breakdown

While rotors are designed for a lifetime of use, not all rotors last the life of a car. Especially with today’s technology where cars can move 250,000 miles or more over the life of the car.

Just like brake pads, brake rotors are impacted just a little bit every time you take your vehicle out for a drive. The more miles you put on the vehicle, the greater chance of it wearing out over time.

The exact lifespan depends on:

The quality of the rotor
How efficiently the rotor dissipates heat
The type of brake pad used
How you drive
Where you drive
Climate
Exposure to elements like rock salt and mag-chloride
How aggressively you brake

Looking for affordable brake repair service? We pride ourselves on being a family-operated repair business that can help you with all of your needs. Give us a call today.

A Guide To Brake Calipers

March 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Car maintenance for most people can be divided into two categories: the parts you understand, and the parts you don’t.

As a driver, changing the motor oil, replacing tires, and fixing the brakes when they squeak is pretty commonplace. We understand the process, know the warning signs, and fit those duties into our routines.

But what about digging deeper? What about maintaining your car’s brake calipers.

What are brake calipers?

Glad you asked.

What is a brake caliper?

The brake caliper is the part of a vehicle that pushes the brake pad to the brake rotor to effectively bring your car to a halt. It’s hydraulic, which uses fluid pressure to cause movement.

Brake calipers resemble a clamp, and partially frame the brake rotor. The caliper houses the car’s brake pads and pistons, creating friction as it slows the vehicle down. They are the heart of the braking system in vehicles that use disc brakes.

Overall, brake calipers have two functions:

1. They guide the brake pads. Brake calipers aren’t an on/off component. Instead, they’re used to guide your vehicle along based on traffic conditions. A little pressure slows you down. More pressure brings you to a stop. Brake calipers have a design feature that ensures the brake pads are always efficient and reliable for the overall braking process.

2. They convert brake fluid into mechanical movement. This process uses hydraulic brake fluid for the braking action within your vehicle. Without the brake caliper, this process wouldn’t take place as effectively as it does, keeping you safe in the process.

How do brake calipers operate?

To understand how a brake caliper operates, you need to step back and look at the entire braking system.

When you apply the brakes, a piston is pushed into motion, putting pressure on the brake fluid in the master cylinder. The brake fluid moves through hoses in the brake lines, from the master cylinder to the brake caliper.

This fluid pressure creates movement in the caliper pistons, resulting in the brake pads pushing forward to make contact with the rotor. Different vehicles use different types of calipers, which each have varying amounts of pistons. This squeezing action causes friction against the moving rotor, causing it to slow. More pressure means more slowing action, reducing the speed or bringing it to a halt altogether.

When you release pressure on the brake pedal, the situation reverses. Hydraulic fluid returns to the master cylinder, and the brake caliper pistons return to their resting position. It sits in waiting for the action to arise again.

As you step on the brake pedal, fluid pressure is released to all four wheels simultaneously, in the same quantity. This results in balanced braking, and ensures your vehicle’s safety.

What are the two types of brake calipers?

Brake calipers come in two categories: floating and fixed. They differ in design, mourning, and operation.

Floating calipers are compact and lightweight. They lack power when compared to a fixed caliper. Instead of being mounted rigidly to the rotor, they slide freely on lubricated pins and bushings. Hydraulics moves the piston and squeezes the inboard brake pads against the brake disc when you step on the brake pedal. That gives the caliper free movement to move along the rotor on the backside, creating clamping action as necessary for control and movement.

Fixed calipers have multiple pistons that make them more powerful than floating. They are more suitable when a lot of power is needed – racing cars or heavy vehicles that require a lot of stopping power. They have more braking force distribution, and produce a firmer, more powerful grip of the rotor as you press down on the pedal.

Both have advantages and disadvantages. Floating calipers are the most commonly used by manufacturers today. Check with your owner’s manual to determine which is used in your vehicle.

The signs your calipers need replacing

Whale brake pads will need replacing over the lifetime of a vehicle, brake calipers are designed to last the life of the car. That isn’t always the case. If they are damaged in any way, you’ll start to notice the way your car drives.

Vehicle pulls to one side when driving or braking

If your car seems to pull to one side while driving, the caliper may be the problem. The pistons move in and out from the hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder. If there is debris or corrosion, it can cause these pistons to freeze up. This will result in the brake pad being unable to connect properly with the rotor. The car will pull towards the side of the damaged caliper when the pistons fail, or away from the damaged side if the brake pad fails to connect with the rotor. This can happen while driving or during braking.

Squealing or rubbing noises

When parts don’t operate the way they should, they can create noise from the areas impacted. While brake pad damage makes a distinct noise every time you apply the brakes, calipers will produce noise whether the brakes are applied or not. When you notice a high-pitched squealing or a metallic rubbing noise while driving and it doesn’t go away, bring your vehicle in as soon as possible, as this can lead to complete brake failure.

Uneven brake pad damage

Brake pads are designed to last 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Because brakes are precise in function, both sides of the car should wear down at approximately the same time. If one brake pad is distinctly different than the other when you replace them, it could be a sign there is something wrong with the brake caliper.

Brake fluid leak

Anytime you notice brake fluid leaks around the car, it’s a sign of damage. Brake fluid is a light yellow color that may darken as it ages. If you touch it, it has an oily, slippery feel. If a caliper leaks, it may cause a slight oily spot on the ground inside the tire. Different things could cause this, so it’s important to inspect them as soon as possible.