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Hybrid Car Maintenance – Every Car Needs a Little TLC From Time to Time

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If you’re thinking of buying a car today, there’s more to it than deciding on a brand, make, or model. The automotive industry is changing fast enough now, you have to consider whether you want to stick with gas operated, or move to hybrid or electric technology. 

Selecting the make and model is only the first step in deciding what will work best for your lifestyle. Before you choose based on looks and gas mileage, consider your maintenance routine too. What does hybrid car maintenance look like? Is it much different than what you’re used to with your gas-powered vehicle?

Hybrid car use in America

Hybrid and battery-operated cars are growing in interest. In 2020, there were 6.8 million battery electric vehicles in use globally, with more than half of them being added to the road during the course of the year. 

Tesla might have given the industry its biggest push, but it by far isn’t the only choice. Pick your favorite car manufacturer – chances are they have an electric model. 

A hybrid rests somewhere between a gas-powered and electric car. A hybrid combines at least one electric engine with one gas-powered engine to move the car. Sometimes the electric motor will do all the work. Sometimes it moves to the gas-powered engine. Sometimes the two work together to keep the car moving. This action results in a more efficient car with less gas burned and better fuel economy. In some cases, adding electric power can even increase performance. 

So what’s the right choice for you as we move forward with technology? If you’re concerned about the future of gas-powered vehicles, and aren’t ready for a fully electric model, a hybrid vehicle may be the best choice for you. 

What about hybrid car maintenance? How will your regular routines change?

Hybrid car maintenance 

Because hybrid vehicles have both a gas-powered and electric engine, they need the basic maintenance offered to a gas-powered car, with a few additional needs for the electric. Hybrids will still need things like regular oil changes, belt replacement, and tire alignment. Because it runs on a battery, you’ll still have to replace the battery. For the electric battery, most today come with warranties for extended periods of time and a long life – 8 year, 80,000 miles, for example. That ensures the electric battery continues to operate without replacement for a long time. 

To start thinking about what a hybrid car will need for a regular maintenance routine, consider adding these tasks to your schedule. 

Check car fluids

Because hybrids run on both gas and electricity, they will need a regular course of action when keeping the engine compartment clean and running well. Just like standard combustion engines, you’ll have to replace your motor oil regularly. Beyond that, you’ll have to replace coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid based on the needs of your car. Check with the owner’s manual that came with your vehicle for more information. Or work with a mechanic experienced in working with EV technology to ensure every aspect of your vehicle continues to operate well. 

Cooling system check

Hybrids have a more complex cooling system because it relies on two different types of power to keep the vehicle running. To keep everything under the hood cool, it requires a complex system relying on a split radiator to keep the internal combustion engine cool. At the same time, another series of circuits serves the various electrical components. Each hybrid system can be slightly different, so it’s important to follow the guidelines based on the manufacturer and make of your vehicle for further advice. 

Hybrid battery 

Because hybrid vehicles rely on both gas and battery for power, the batteries won’t travel as far as a fully electric vehicle. Depending on the make and model, you can have a limited range of 70 to 250 miles for each charge. The battery itself will last anywhere from 70,000 to 100,000 miles. 

You might be used to allowing your mobile technology to fully drain before plugging it in. Hybrid batteries work similarly. It’s best to drain the battery down and then recharge it to full capacity. This keeps it functioning at its best. Freezing weather can impact how well a hybrid battery operates. Consider keeping it in a garage, or buying a heater. 

Tire inspection

Whether you drive a gas-powered, hybrid, or electric vehicle, the reliance on tires to get you from point A to point B will always be the same. Your tires connect to the road and provide safe passage as you drive. If your tires aren’t in top shape, problems can start to build throughout the vehicle. 

Do a spot check periodically to ensure your cars are in good condition. You can do the penny check to ensure the tread depth is in proper proportion. Most cars today come with an electronic tire pressure sensor. Ensure each tire is properly filled for maximum wear. Keep your tires in proper alignment, and have them balanced and rotated regularly. Every other oil change is a routine that will help you stay on track. 

Brake check

Hybrid vehicles use regenerative braking technology to recharge the battery. When the driver removes their foot from the accelerator to coast or applies the brakes, the electric motor spins in reverse and acts as a generator to recharge the battery. This energy also adds resistance to the wheels without the use of the conventional brakes, which means the brake pads and other parts of the braking system won’t wear down as fast as it does with a traditional gas-powered system. 

Still, your braking system is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Routine checks will ensure everything is working correctly. If you’re heading out of town, or head into the mountains regularly, it’s a good idea to put a maintenance visit on your calendar periodically to ensure the safety of your braking system. 

Do you have a hybrid vehicle? 

Technology is allowing advances in our transportation system like never before. Hybrid car maintenance may be slightly different from traditional, but it’s still necessary to ensure your vehicle stays safe throughout the years. 

How can we help you ensure your car is working well? 

How To Check and Inspect Your Brake Pads to Avoid Brake Failure

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The braking system on your car is probably something you don’t think much about. You get in. You drive. And when you press down on the brake pedal, you slow down and eventually come to a stop. 

What if they didn’t work? 

Like everything on your vehicle, brakes have a limited lifespan. The various components wear down a little each time you use them, and eventually become so worn they need repair or replacement. 

How big a risk is brake failure?

Why brakes fail

When you press down on your brake pedal, that pressure is transferred into the brake lines. Brake fluid transmits that pressure to the brakes themselves, which ultimately causes you to slow down and come to a stop. 

There are two different kinds of brakes on vehicles today: drum and disc. In both, the pressure from the brake lines pushes the drum or disk against the wheel itself to slow it down. 

Brakes can fail from a variety of events, but in general, can be lumped into two categories. 

A leaky brake line – this is when a leak forms somewhere in the brake line. Brake fluid slowly drains from the system until there isn’t enough left to move pressure from the brake pedal to the tires. 

Worn out disc or drum – this is when one or more parts to the brake system itself wear out. If brake pads, shoes, rotors, or any other part of the drum or disc brake system wear down enough to prevent proper friction on the wheels to stop them, you’re at risk. 

Brake failure – quick or slow?

The good news is that car manufacturers have built a series of safety features into every system on your vehicle, to alert you of potentially dangerous situations long before they occur. As problems arise within the braking system, you’ll be alerted by a change in the way your brakes handle, a noise when you press on the brake pedal, or even a change in the way your car handles. If you step on the brake pedal and it feels spongy or pulls to one side, it’s a sign you have a problem with the brakes. Schedule an appointment with one of our mechanics as soon as possible to avoid further damage and increased risk. 

How To Check and Inspect Your Brake Pads to Avoid Brake Failure

Brake pads – the most common problem

While multiple things can potentially go wrong within your braking system, in most cases, you’ll replace the brake pads more frequently than any other part of the system. 

Brake pads will last around 40,000 miles on average, while brake rotors can last as much as three times as long. Why? Brake pads are responsible for bringing your car to a stop. When you press down on the brake pedal, it’s the brake pad that presses up against the rotor, slowing down the wheel in the process. Eventually, this material will wear down, leaving only the metal baking in place. 

While 40,000 is a rough estimate, many things can alter how many miles you’ll receive on each set of brake pads you install. 

  • Do you drive mostly on the highway or in town?
  • Do you frequently ride the brakes?
  • Are you an aggressive driver, often pouncing on the brake pedal?
  • Who manufactured your brake pads?

Brake pads are made of frictional material bonded to a metal backing plate. Brake pads are typically made from one of three different materials:

Organic – most vehicles on the road today use organic brake pads. They are also known as NAO pads, or non-asbestos organic pads. These pads are made of materials such as carbon, fiber, glass, rubber, and sometimes Kevlar mixed with resins to help bond it all together. While organic pads are usually the least expensive, they also wear down faster than the other types of pads. Still, they are a good choice for average daily driving conditions. 

Semi-metallic –  when you purchased your vehicle, if it didn’t come with organic brake pads, there’s a good chance semi-metallic brake pads were installed instead. These are often a popular choice on trucks or larger SUVs. Semi-metallic brake pads are created from metal shavings such as copper, steel, brass, and possibly graphite. They are bound together by resin. They are best suited for more rigorous driving conditions and heavy-duty use. 

Ceramic – want a brake pad somewhere in between, that offers performance as well as a comfortable ride? Ceramic brake pads may be the way to go. Ceramic brake pads are made from hard, ceramic fibers. That gives them the longest lifespan of the three types, and also the quietest ride. They handle heat very well, but instead of absorbing heat like the other brake pads, it sends it out and impacts other parts of the braking system. These are high-performance parts that can enhance your drive. 

Do a brake check and stay safe

While you drive, you should monitor the way your car handles. 

Before you get into your car, do a visual inspection occasionally to ensure your brakes are in good working condition. Do so with your car parked safely and the ignition off. 

Look at the wheels. Do you notice brake dust on the wheel? How much? If you notice it increasing over time, it’s something you should bring up on your next visit. 

On some cars, you can also see the brake pad. Notice its thickness. If it seems thin, ¼ inch or less, it may be time for replacement. Monitor this and speak with one of our mechanics on the safety of your braking system. 

When you start the car and drive, listen to your brakes. Brake pads are designed with a marker that makes noise when they need to be changed. It will get louder over time, as the material on the brake pads continues to wear. 

You should also pay attention to how your vehicle drives. You can often feel changes in the way the brake pedal moves and connects with the braking system. 

Your car is also built with a warning system. If the brake warning light comes on at any time, have it checked sooner rather than later. 

Are your brakes in good working condition?

Why Your Car Needs Regular Tune Ups

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A car is comprised of over 10,000 components working together to provide you with reliable transportation. If it’s well cared for, it will continue running indefinitely. That’s why car manufacturers recommend regular tune ups to keep their vehicles operating at their best. 

But what does that mean? The concept of a regular tune up is a bit vague. It can mean one thing to one driver, and have a completely different meaning to someone else. 

What is a tune up?

When you bring in your car for a tune up, it will move through two processes: an inspection and servicing. 

The inspection process starts with a visual check of all the major components of the vehicle. A mechanic will determine how well the engine is performing by inspecting the spark plugs, air filters, oil and coolant levels. They will assess the fuel system by making sure the fuel filter is clean and unclogged. 

If a mechanic sees any potential problem, the inspection process can grow from there to assess other systems and ensure they are operating well. 

The tune up service depends on the results of the inspection. Every tune up process will be different, with recommendations made based on what is found. The goal is to ensure the engine operates properly, receives the right amount of fuel and oil, and functions well based on the current road conditions. Suggestions for servicing might be as simple as adding coolant, to more complex issues that require replacing various parts of the system. 

Why Your Car Needs Regular Tune Ups

Typically, a mechanic runs through a series of tests to find potential problems before they escalate. The most common parts replaced after an inspection include:

  • Fluids – cars operate well if the fluids are topped off and in good condition. Mechanics often recommend replacing or topping off motor oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or power steering fluid after a thorough check. 
  • Filters – a filter’s job is to keep contaminating particles from entering a system. Once a filter is dirty or compromised, it can no longer do its job effectively. If a mechanic notices a dirty filter, changing out may be an easy solution to the problem. 
  • Belts and hoses – belts and hoses keep your car operational. It’s how power moves through the various components to keep your car running well. Cracks, leaks, and other damage can compromise the working condition of the various systems underneath the hood. 
  • Ignition – this includes the electrical components of your vehicle, including spark plugs, wires, and coils. 

Warning signs your car needs a tune up

Cars rarely fail without indicators far in advance. It’s your job to notice transitions in the way your vehicle is operating, and bring your car in for servicing before things move from bad to worse. 

Luckily, there are built in warning signs that alert you to potential problems. 

Dashboard lights – today’s vehicles are technologically advanced, and can easily alert you to potential problems before they grow. Every dashboard light tells you your vehicle is operating outside of “normal.” It gives you a chance to bring it in for servicing before it gets worse. An engine light can mean many things. A tune up will get to the root cause, and fix the problem quickly. 

Brakes – the brake system is one of the most vital. If you notice squeaks when you apply the brakes, or the pedal feels a bit spongy as you apply pressure, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for inspection. 

Fuel economy – with every fill up, pay attention to the gas mileage you got for that tank of gas. If you notice changes in gas mileage without a solid reason, it could be that your vehicle isn’t processing the gas as efficiently as when it was new. That can impact the way the engine performs, as well as effect the emissions being released every time you drive. 

Stalling – as you apply pressure to the accelerator, does the car lag, jump, work to catch up with your demands? This can put you in a dangerous situation on a busy road, and continue causing damage underneath the hood. 

Vibrations – whenever your vehicle shifts in ways it normally doesn’t, shakes as you drive, or hesitates, it’s a sign there’s a problem within the system. To stay safe, a tune up can find out what’s wrong. 

While it’s important to bring your vehicle in for a tune up if you notice something not working right, it’s equally important to do so regularly. Manufacturers make recommendations based on the way your vehicle was constructed to ensure it continues working well throughout the life of the vehicle. 

Modern vehicles only need tune ups every 30,000 to 100,000 miles. If you’re not sure about your vehicle, check the owner’s manual for more details. It’s best to stick with a plan to ensure a long life for your car. 

What a car tune up includes

When you bring your car in for servicing, it typically will include:

  • Filter replacement
  • Change out spark plugs
  • Replace all worn components
  • Preventative maintenance 
  • Fluid replacement
  • Examining the electrical connections
  • Repairing and replacing belts, hoses, and wires

If you stick with a regular maintenance plan, your tune up should be uneventful, with updates to the needed components. 

Maintenance is the key to keeping your car well conditioned for as long as you own your vehicle. 

Still have questions about the best care for your car?

We’re here to help. 

To keep your car in good working condition, it’s important to pay attention to how well your vehicle operates from day to day. When you notice changes, it’s time to bring it in and have it inspected. It can help you stay safe in all driving conditions, and catch potential problems early to keep repair bills to a minimum. 

When was the last time you scheduled a tune up for your car? Do it today. 

This Is How To Ensure Your Car Sees 200,000 Miles

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Cars are expensive. When you buy one and drive it off the lot, you hope it will last for years to come. 

But what does that mean? Will you drive it for a few years and trade it in? Will you put on 50,000 miles? 100,000? More?

What would it take to ensure your car sees 200,000 miles? With today’s automobiles, it’s not as uncommon as you might think. According to a study by iSeeCars, they identified 16 models that each has over 2.5 percent of their vehicles reach 200,000 miles or more. 

That’s good news if you drive a lot. But even if you buy a car with a predisposition for longevity, it doesn’t just happen on its own. To ensure your car sees 200,000, it’s going to take a little work on your part. The good news is it won’t take a lot of your time. It’s more about regular maintenance and sticking with a schedule since you’ve already done the hardest part: buy a reliable vehicle.

Here’s what to do next:

Be diligent with your maintenance checks

While today’s cars come complete with diagnostics and have dashboard lights to warn you when something is wrong, this should be considered your backup, not your maintenance plan. When you purchase your car, spend some time getting to know the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance items. You can find this in the owner’s manual, or simply do a search online. Then stick with it. Calendar the items if you have to. Don’t skip the important things like oil changes and brake jobs. Error on the side of replacing it before you’re scheduled to. This alone will ensure your car is always in the best shape possible, and keep your car on the road for many years to come.  Maintenance checks include:

This Is How To Ensure Your Car Sees 200,000 Miles

Changing the oil religiously

This is something you should do like clockwork, almost as natural as pulling into the gas station to fill up the tank. Newer cars are more efficient than ever, but you still should replace the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. You should also pay attention to your driving habits. In extreme situations, error on the lower side. When we hit record-breaking heat or cold waves here across the Front Range, change it more frequently. You should also speak with one of our mechanics about the type of oil you use, so it matches your driving conditions. 

Keep your tires in good working order

Your tires are what keep you safe and on the road. Like every other auto part, they come with a suggested timeline for replacement. This can change depending on driving conditions. If your tires aren’t properly maintained, they can reduce your gas mileage. If they are too worn, you risk blowouts. Your maintenance check involves checking to ensure your tires are properly inflated at least once a month, rotating them and checking their condition frequently as well. 

Never ignore warning lights

Today’s vehicles are designed to alert you to potential problems with extreme precision, to ensure you are alerted before larger threats develop. If you see an alert icon illuminating or flashing, schedule a maintenance visit to determine what’s wrong. 

For example, your car’s oil pressure light indicates an issue with the oil pressure system. The oil might be running low, or your oil pump isn’t circulating enough fluid through the system to fully lubricate all surface areas inside your vehicle. The longer you drive with one of these potential problems, the more damage can be done throughout your car. Quick maintenance ensures all of your systems stay running smooth. 

Never ignore noises

When you drive your car the first time, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the little details. The way your car starts. The noises it makes as you drive. How it acts on a cold winter day, and how it operates in the heat of the summer. 

As your car ages, pay attention to those same processes. Does it sound the same way as it did when you first purchased it? Do you hear tiny squeaks or squeals? Do you hear clunking or banging? Is there an annoying ping you can’t figure out where it is? 

As parts wear down, they don’t work together like they did when they were new. Gaps may form. Leaks develop. Joints wear out. All of that creates friction that can change the way your car sounds. Don’t hope it will go away; it won’t. Instead, have it checked out as soon as possible. Track when the noise appears, how long it lasts, and how often you hear it. That will help a mechanic pinpoint the problem. 

Get to know a mechanic you can trust

One of the easiest ways to ensure your car sees 200,000 miles is to have a mechanic get to know your car. To find a good mechanic you can trust. 

Instead of looking for coupons and good deals, you’ll have access to a mechanic who provides you with feedback on how to properly care for your car. They will have a file on hand, watch different systems, and tell you what you can expect. They’ll be a part of your team to ensure your car stays operating as well as possible. 

Have you ever been a coupon shopper, where you take your vehicle in based on price? These shops may offer one service or solution, and push you to do everything they have on the menu. They look for the quick sale, and hope to get hundreds of takers in based on their specials. They know full well most of these people shop based on price alone. They work to increase volume. 

But when you find a seasoned mechanic who deals with customer care, you’ll find a different kind of service. 

Want your car to see 200,000 miles or more? Your best first step is to find a mechanic who cares. 

How can we help you? 

Tire Alignments – The Price You’ll Pay If You Don’t Do It Often

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Have you noticed a change in the way your car handles while you drive?

Does your vehicle drift to the right or left while driving straight ahead?

They may be a sign of trouble with tire alignments. 

What causes misaligned wheels? 

When you drive your vehicle, it can undergo a lot of stress, even under normal driving conditions. Potholes, curbs, even dips in the road can all cause damage to the way your wheels operate. 

Overall, there are three causes of wheel misalignment:

  • Sudden impact – this is caused by hitting something in the road, such as a pothole. 
  • Worn parts – over time, parts start wearing down and can cause a problem with the way your tires connect with the road. 
  • Height adjustments – all vehicles are designed with specific guidelines in place. If you make modifications to the parts on your car, it can impact the way it performs. This includes adjusting the height of the suspension system, without adjusting for the way the wheels connect with the road. 

How do you know if the wheels are misaligned?

Like other parts on your vehicle, if tires are in need of alignment, it gives warning signals to let you know. Pay attention, and you can catch minor problems before they escalate into bigger ones. 

Gas efficiency – have you noticed your fuel costs are rising? If you’re spending more at the pump without any other explanation, it could be a sign of wheel misalignment. If a vehicle doesn’t drive straight, and you’re constantly adjusting the wheel to keep the car in its lane, it increases fuel consumption for this trigger effect. 

Tire wear – when tires are correctly aligned, they move in a straight line. They connect perfectly with the road, and all parts of the tire wear evenly. If tires are in need of alignment, you’ll start noticing uneven tread. That’s because you’re consistently adjusting the car to keep it on track, and various parts of the wheel are connecting with the road differently than the rest of it. This extra pressure on the tires is caused by back and forth movement, which causes premature wear and tear. 

Tire Alignments - The Price You’ll Pay If You Don’t Do It Often

Drifting side to side – if you’re driving on a straight road, the steering wheel should sit straight, and your car should move forward effortlessly without adjustment. If you start feeling it drift side to side, needing more control from you to keep it within the lane, it’s a sign the wheels are misaligned. 

Flats and blowouts – notice your tires are flat more often? Need to adjust the air pressure regularly? Misalignment causes tire tread to wear faster due to unequal pressure on each of the tires. That means as you drive, the tire becomes more susceptible to punctures, loss of air pressure, and eventually control over the vehicle. If the problem is allowed to persist, it puts you at more risk of a blowout, which can lead to total loss of control and cause accidents. 

Unusual noises – as with other systems on your vehicle, always pay attention to the noises it makes as you drive. For example, if you hear a squeal coming from the tires as you move, it’s a sign to schedule an inspection to ensure the safety of your vehicle. 

What problems can wheel misalignment cause?

Today’s vehicles have around 30,000 parts. They are all intricately designed to work together to keep you safe while you drive. 

As one part wears out, it can quickly impact other parts within the system. That one part can escalate and impact a variety of components if you don’t act quickly. That also escalates the dollars you’ll spend repairing your car. 

One of the most common problems with wheel misalignment is causing uneven wear on the tires. This wears out the tires faster, affects performance, and will eventually create unsafe situations, possibly from a blowout. 

Misaligned wheels also show up as lower fuel economy. Because it takes more energy to keep your car under control, it shows up in the form of lowering your gas mileage. While you might not notice this right away, if you consistently track your gas mileage, you can be alerted to this potential problem quicker. 

How do you fix tire alignment?

Luckily, fixing a problem with tire alignment is relatively easy to fix when you bring it into an experienced mechanic. They will use a wheel alignment machine to check the alignment and adjust the various components of your vehicle, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines of your car. They will potentially make adjustments in three different ways:

Camber – adjusting the camber means adjusting the tilt of the tire relative to the way it sits on the road. A positive camber is when the top of the tire leans away from the car, while negative camber leans towards the car. 

Caster – caster involves the angle of the steering wheel pivot point as it sits according to the front and back of the vehicle. A positive caster is angled forward, while a negative caster is angled backward. 

Toe – toe settings impact the vehicle’s handling related to the way the tire sits on the line of the vehicle. 

Mechanics continue to refine the adjustment of the wheel until the tire alignment is straight. 

How do you prevent wheel misalignment?

The best way to prevent wheel misalignment is to stick with a regular maintenance schedule. If you or a mechanic catches a problem before it escalates, you reduce the risk of potentially costly repairs, as well as accidents that can form from a damaged vehicle. 

Avoid curbs and potholes – be aware of the way you drive. Avoid severe shock of the suspension system by moving slowly through dips and bumps, avoiding connection with curbs, and avoiding potholes whenever possible. If you hit a particular severe bump, it pays to schedule a maintenance visit and have your car checked out. 

Avoid accidents – accidents are called accidents for a reason, yet many drivers receive minor damage regularly. If you bump a curb, back into a pole, or sideswipe a rail, it can cause extensive damage, some of it might not be immediately visible. While you might not choose to bring in your vehicle after every situation, scheduling regular checkups throughout the years can alert you to minor problems before they escalate out of control. 

If you suspect your tires are out of alignment, schedule a maintenance visit soon. 

Early Warning Signs of Transmission Failure

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The transmission is one of the most important components of today’s vehicles. Without it, there would be no way to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. 

Like other parts of a vehicle, when something goes wrong, your car won’t operate as it should. In some cases, it can stop you in your tracks. 

Luckily, there are early warning signs of transmission failure. Catch it early and it will be an easy repair. Put off the repair, and you risk expensive repairs or complete failure. 

How a transmission works

A transmission ensures that power moves from the engine to the wheels. 

There are a variety of car transmissions available, some are automatic while others are manual. While it once was common to control the transmission by using a stick-shift inside the car, more cars today operate with an automatic. Select which gear you want, and the transition occurs automatically for you. 

A transmission enables the gear ratio between the drive wheel and the engine to adjust and help the car speed up or slow down. When the car comes to a complete stop, the transmission disconnects the engine from the drive wheels so that the engine can idle without powering the wheels. Depending on which gear you’re in determines the direction: park, forward, or reverse. 

For a manual transmission, a clutch pedal and a shifter are used to change gears. The driver has to select the proper gears by engaging or disengaging the clutch. Automatic transmissions power this process to occur automatically within the transmission. 

What are the early warning signs of transmission failure?

While a vehicle’s transmission is designed to operate smoothly throughout the process, as parts wear out, you’ll start to notice small changes in the way the system handles. 

Early Warning Signs of Transmission Failure

Noises

When you first buy your car, spend some time getting used to the way it performs. It’s important to engage all your senses through this process, including what you hear, what you smell, and what you see. 

Often, noises are your first warning sign. Depending on the problem, you’ll start to hear things that weren’t there before. A click. A scrape. A squeak. It also can change depending on the function – moving into reverse may provide a different noise than picking up speed. 

A transmission consists of multiple components, of which any of them can fail and cause a disruption in the system. Transmission problems are most likely associated with a clunking, buzzing, or whining sound due to the nature of the parts. 

Burning smell

In order for the transmission to operate properly, it has transmission fluid that keeps it lubricated and in motion. Fresh transmission fluid has a sweet or tart smell. But if it overheats, leaks, and runs low, it takes on an entirely different smell. 

If you notice a burning smell as you operate your vehicle, it could be low transmission fluid. Something within the system is burning too hot, which increases the friction, and leads to corrosive activity inside the engine. 

The moment you notice this smell, schedule an appointment right away. 

Refusal to switch gears

With a manual transmission, this is easily noticed when you press down on the clutch, and the shifter won’t budge. You push, and yet it simply won’t allow you to move between gears. 

An automatic might be a little less noticeable, but listen closely. You’ll hear it as you drive. You might also notice it as you try to move from park to drive. 

The key is not to force the gears into place. This can come from a variety of problems, including electronics that have gone bad to low or dirty transmission fluid. Rather than take a chance on further damaging parts, it’s best to let a mechanic look at it and determine where the problem lies. 

Slipping gears

Like refusal to switch gears, slipping gears can cause scary situations. Imagine being on the highway, and your transmission suddenly alters what gear you’re in. It can lead to dangerous situations. 

Over time, gears simply wear out. Slipping gears often stems from normal wear and tear, which causes them to no longer engage properly, and slip in and out of sync. 

Jerking, grinding, or shaking sensation

When gears don’t operate as designed, you’ll notice it in the way your vehicle performs. 

You’ll hear the gears grind on a manual transmission as you try to change gears. 

You’ll experience hesitation with an automatic as it attempts to engage, yet fails. 

You may feel your vehicle jerk or shake as you speed up and slow down, depending on how the gears connect. 

Once you notice this, pay attention to the sensation. Then share it with your mechanic, who will better understand where to start the evaluation process for your vehicle. 

Leaking fluid

Pay attention to what occurs underneath your vehicle. Leaking transmission fluid is quite recognizable. 

When your transmission fluid is fresh and new, it has a relatively clear pink color. As your transmission fluid ages, becomes dirty with contaminants, it changes to a deep red or brown. A dark brown color signifies it’s been overheated. 

Transmission fluid is what lubricates the gears and keeps the components working well, and stops them from overheating. It also acts as a hydraulic fluid for creating gear engagement. A leak lessens the amount of fluid in the system and will cause overheating, and eventually, a total breakdown. 

Check engine light

Dashboard lights are a modern day convenience to give you plenty of warning when something is wrong. It’s the best and earliest indicator that your engine isn’t operating the way it should. 

Every system in your car has triggers and sensors that are tripped when your vehicle isn’t operating the way it should. If a problem is detected, the sensor is notified, and a light goes off on your dashboard. 

Pay attention to any and all of these warning signs. They are your best indicator for a potential problem. 

Catching it early can help ensure your safety, as well as prevent future problems with other systems in your car. Catch it early enough and you can also pay less in repair bills – replacing transmission fluid is much less expensive than replacing the entire transmission. 

How can we help you keep your vehicle working as it should? 

Maintenance Tips For a Diesel Engine

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Diesel engines have one advantage over other engines: it converts fuel to power in a more efficient way. Yet here in the US, if you want a diesel engine, you’ll have to shop for either a pickup or SUV; recent scandals involving emissions tampering stopped sales of diesel cars here in the US in favor of hybrids and electrics.  

Still, if you are in the market for a pickup or SUV, diesels offer advantages. According to the EPA, diesel fuel contains up to 15 percent more energy per gallon than gasoline. That makes it more efficient, meaning you go farther on a gallon of gas, and save money doing so overall. 

If you’ve ever driven a car or truck with a diesel engine, you might have fallen in love with the way it drives. There are many reasons for drivers to prefer diesel, including:

  • Lower emissions
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Less maintenance when compared to gas powered engines

However, fewer trips to a mechanic doesn’t mean you should ignore maintenance altogether. Driving a diesel powered truck means you might push it more for both work and personal use. It still needs regular maintenance to continue operating as efficiently as possible. 

With these diesel engine maintenance tips in place, you can keep your vehicle running for years – decades – and have this vehicle be one of the best you’ve ever owned. 

The difference between diesel fuel and gasoline

Before we get into the difference in how the two engines work, let’s start with the fuel used to keep your vehicle in operation. 

Both gasoline and diesel engines use an internal combustion engine to convert fuel into energy. The difference between the two is when the combustion occurs. 

If you drive a car powered by gasoline, fuel combines with oxygen, which is compressed by pistons and ignited by sparks created by the spark plugs. 

If you drive a vehicle powered by diesel fuel, air is compressed first to a very high temperature, and then fuel is injected and ignites with the hot air. 

Maintenance Tips For a Diesel Engine

Diesel engines don’t require spark plugs for this process to occur. Without these inside the engine compartment, it’s one less system you’ll have to maintain and eventually replace over time. 

Can you use gasoline and diesel fuel interchangeably?

Instinctively drivers know that you can’t mix the two types of fuel. You can’t put diesel fuel into a gasoline tank, and vice versa. 

Diesel fuel is heavier than gasoline. It has different density and viscosity levels. Its flash point and ignition temperatures are also significantly higher. That also makes the opposite true: gasoline is lighter than diesel fuel, and ignites at a lower temperature. This is what causes problems if you intermix the two. 

Let’s start with putting gasoline in a diesel engine. Even a small drop can be dangerous because of the flashpoint. Gasoline lowers the flash temperature significantly, which means diesel fuel can prematurely ignite, leading to engine damage. It can damage the fuel pump, and impact the diesel injectors, all because of an incomplete combustion process. Because of today’s technology, the computer will try and adjust based on readings, which can cut power and cause further damage inside the system. 

The reverse can also be damaging. If you add diesel fuel into a gasoline tank, it becomes more volatile and burns at a much lower flash temperature. The gasoline will ignite before the pistons complete their action. At best, you’ll get a knocking sound. At worst, it’ll quickly damage the piston and rod. Diesel fuel is heavier than gasoline, meaning it quickly sinks to the bottom of the tank. That can create problems throughout the system, including damage to the intake manifold, master cylinder, and eventually into the exhaust system. 

If you mix the two, your best course of action is to have it towed and remedy the problem before you drive it again. 

Keeping your diesel engine healthy with these maintenance tips

While your diesel engine truck or SUV won’t require exactly the same maintenance routine as your gasoline powered luxury sedan, it still requires TLC to keep it operational and running smoothly throughout its life. 

Start with regular oil changes. Oil is a critical component in every vehicle to ensure it’s fully operational. Like any vehicle, an oil change should be scheduled regularly according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Check to ensure your oil is at appropriate levels, watch for buildup of sludge under the cap, or for changes in viscosity. 

Replace fuel and air filters regularly. Diesel engines have two fuel filters in place, which should be replaced regularly to ensure your engine operates efficiently. If you push your vehicle for either business or personal use, it might benefit you to replace them more often. With the air filter, you can monitor it and replace it as soon as you see dirt accumulating. This helps your engine take in clean air to help it run smoothly. 

Check coolant levels. Because diesel engines operate at higher temperatures, they rely more heavily on the cooling system for performance. This puts more heat and pressure on the radiator, which can increase the likelihood of overheating. An easy way to avoid serious damage is to check your coolant regularly, and add as necessary. 

Keep your engine compartment clean. For some, a dirty truck is a happy truck. But buildup underneath the hood can damage critical components of your vehicle. Dirt, grime, debris, and other contaminants can impact the engine’s ability to perform efficiently. The more you use dirt roads, drive on rough terrain, or even navigate the Colorado roads sprayed with chemicals in the wintertime, it’s important to ensure you spray away the damaging particles regularly.  

Use these maintenance tips regularly to keep your diesel engine operating at its best

Whether you’re driving a brand new SUV or truck, or you have a favorite vehicle you’ve been driving for years, the best way to keep it operating at its best is with regular maintenance. 

We can help with that. For regular maintenance, or a significant repair, our team of mechanics is ready to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly for many years to come. Give us a call today. 

How Does Mountain Driving Impact Your Car?

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Welcome to Denver, Colorado, the city otherwise known as Mile High.

Of course, many of us here living along the Front Range take our sports just as seriously as we do day to day living. Skiing, hiking, mountain biking – it’s all a big part of our lives. 

Whether you’re driving to work, or heading up into the hills for a weekend getaway, we use our cars to tow the fun along. Throw the skis on a rack on top. Place the bikes on the back. And why not tow a trailer while you’re at it? 

All of that adds weight to your vehicle … and can impact how well your car operates. 

When you’re already operating a mile above sea level, what effect does that have? As you head up into the hills, how does mountain driving impact your car?  

What high altitude does to a car

Today’s cars are built to handle the normal wear and tear of day to day driving. While we’re already a mile up, your car will adjust and run well as you navigate throughout the city. As you start to climb and move up in altitude, it puts stress on the engine. If your engine was already compromised in any way, it can make minor issues grow exponentially quickly as you drive. 

Do this every day, or every weekend as you head up to play, it can cause a lot of damage underneath the hood. 

How mountain driving impacts a car

Cars are designed to work hard in all kinds of driving conditions. When well maintained, they won’t break down as you travel along different roads, or in different operating conditions. 

Higher altitude means less power. Your car’s engine is like a big air pump, where it draws air in through the intake system, combines it with fuel, combusts the air/fuel combination, then pumps it back out via the exhaust system. The higher you move up the mountain, the less oxygen there is. That can lead to sluggish engine performance as there isn’t enough air to feed the system effectively. In general, an engine will lose 3 percent of its power for every 1,000 feet it climbs. That means your vehicle can lose 20 percent of its horsepower or more by driving from Denver to your favorite ski resort. If you push your car at the same levels you do when you’re zipping around town, it could spell trouble for your engine. 

How Does Mountain Driving Impact Your Car?

That much pressure on your engine will also impact your fuel system. When your car operates at higher altitudes, it needs less octane in the fuel to start up. Here in Colorado, we make adjustments for that. You’ll find octane ratings lower than you’ll find if you head to cities located at sea level. This also changes the higher you drive. If you track your fuel economy regularly, you’ll notice a difference depending on where you drive. 

Your braking system is another potential problem area that can be impacted by mountain driving. Steep roads, sharp turns, and constant navigation as you descend into the city can add pressure to your brakes. Instead of gently applying the brakes, you might find yourself punching them often as you try to navigate traffic. This puts pressure on all brake system components, from the brake pads to the rotors, to the brake fluid within the system. If you’re tracking your brake system and basing your maintenance schedule on manufacturer’s guidelines, be aware that mountain driving will require more frequent inspections and replacements. Notice any differences in the way your car handles, especially if you spend a lot of time going to your favorite ski resorts on the weekends. 

Climbing in altitude can also affect tire pressure. As you climb in elevation, tire pressure will decrease. This can impact your tires in many ways, including:

  • Lower your fuel economy
  • Reduce the handling power of your vehicle
  • Cause uneven tire tread wear
  • Increase the chances of a blowout

If you head into the mountains frequently, be prepared to replace your tires more often. The wear on the tread can quickly degrade the rubber, and cause the tires to wear down faster than guidelines suggest. 

If you use mountain roads frequently, you might consider a turbocharged car as a way for minimizing power loss. Turbochargers compress more air into a vehicle’s cylinders, making up for the lower air density while climbing in altitude. It’s an efficient way of giving you more power when you need it most. 

Precautions when driving at higher altitudes

It doesn’t take much to keep your vehicle in good working condition no matter where you drive your car. 

Check the weather forecast before you take to the roads. If you can avoid climbing in altitude during the worst road conditions, it will help you prevent damage to your car. 

Check your tires regularly, including rotating and keeping them balanced. This gives one of our mechanics a chance to thoroughly inspect the tires, and warn you of any potential problems. 

Avoid your engine overheating. Climbing steep mountain roads can create problems with your car’s engine, especially if it was showing signs of a problem before you started out on your journey. If it’s struggling, don’t push it. Shift into a lower gear and maintain a consistent speed. Turn off the AC, which puts even more strain on the engine. When it’s safe to pull over when you get the chance, turn it off and let the engine cool down. Assess whether you can drive it to a mechanic, or you need to have the vehicle towed. 

Don’t abuse your brake system. Stop aggressive driving behavior. Avoid pouncing on the brake pedal whenever you can, and learn to downshift as you’re coming back down the mountain into Denver. 

Scheduling maintenance visits with one of our mechanics regularly will ensure your vehicle stays in good working condition throughout the year. It’ll ensure your car is there for you wherever the road may take you.  

Put Brake Replacement On Your Calendar

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When you purchase a car, you invest in freedom. Owning a car allows you to come and go as you please. 

But owning a car takes more investment than buying an appliance for your kitchen. A toaster, mixer, or dishwasher work … until they don’t. Then you replace them and move on with your day. 

You can’t do that with a car. Your vehicle has over 10,000 parts that make it operate smoothly and efficiently. If you don’t care for these parts along the way, they can wear down, break down, and leave you stranded. 

Considering your car has thousands of parts, it’s difficult for anyone to track. Most understand that motor oil needs replacing around 3,000 miles. It’s a rule of thumb most car owners know. It’s on autopilot. 

But what about the other fluids and systems? They tend to disappear – out of sight, out of mind. 

Take your brakes, for example. Your brakes are one of the most vital systems on your vehicle. It contains dozens of parts, each of which needs maintenance throughout the years. When do your brake pads need replacing? Are the brake rotors in good shape? How about brake fluid? Get it wrong, and they might not work when you step on the brake pedal. 

What is a car maintenance schedule and why should you calendar it? 

When you own a car, maintenance becomes a part of the process. There are two ways of handling it: schedule, or as needed. When you schedule it, you catch things before they snowball. You fix minor issues before they become big problems. When you adhere to the as-needed method, your costs run higher as you only fix things when they completely break down. 

Creating a car maintenance schedule is the easiest way to stay on track. If you calendar it, you’ll take the guesswork out of when certain maintenance items should be performed. Think of it in the same manner as you do your motor oil changes, and base it on regular intervals throughout the year. 

When was the last time you sat down and flipped through your vehicle’s owner’s manual? If you’re not even sure where it is, it’s time to find it. Manufacturers create an owner’s manual to provide requirements for your vehicle’s critical components. They spell out each system, the various inspections, and replacements needed over the life of the car. Because they created the car, they are the most aware of how each system is designed to last. Using the owner’s manual, you can calendar the most important systems, knowing when you should bring your car in for inspection. 

Put Brake Replacement On Your Calendar

Some systems move to the top of your list … like the brake system

A car’s brake system is a complicated system of components that work together to give you control over your vehicle while you drive, and provide safety features to ensure you and your passengers remain safe inside. If the components work well together, your brake system will operate efficiently. If any part starts to wear down, failure can occur, causing an accident. 

Like other systems on your car, the brake system is a fairly straightforward mechanism. It starts by pressing down on the brake pedal inside your car. This releases brake fluid and moves it into a piston, which generates enough force to be able to squeeze a caliper against the car’s wheels, slowing the car down until eventually, it comes to a stop. This pressure between the pistons and the calipers causes friction, which helps control the speed of the wheels. 

Of course, a brake system is made up of more than just pistons and calipers. It’s only the start of the various components that make up the braking system. Other issues can originate with the following:

Master cylinder – this is where hydraulic fluid is pushed down into the brake lines using fluid from the brake reservoir. 

Brake rotor – also known as disk brakes, each wheel uses a rotor that spins while the vehicle is in motion. The caliper rubs against the rotor to create the necessary friction to control the wheel. 

Brake drum –  this is the alternative to disk brakes, where the drum spins while a brake shoe moves inside to cause friction when you step on the brake pedal. 

Brake pad – the brake pad is attached to the caliper, creating friction as it connects with the rotor. It can be made from different materials, one of the most commonly replaced items on the braking system. 

Brake caliper – a clamp that provides force as it pushes the brake pad against the rotor using hydraulic pressure. 

Brake shoe – the alternative to the brake pad, used in brake drum systems.

Brake pedal – this is the pedal inside your vehicle. 

Brake lines – brake lines transfer brake fluid between the master cylinder and the wheels. 

Wheel sensors – on an anti-lock braking system, wheel sensors are used to detect how fast each wheel is spinning. When these sensors determine the four wheels are spinning at different rates when you slam on the brakes, it uses speed variation to take control over brake pressure and bring your car to a safe, controlled stop. 

ABS monitor – this is a computerized mechanism for controlling your braking system. It’s what tracks and controls the wheel speed sensors. 

Calender your brake maintenance to stay safe

While your car’s manufacturer will have specific guidelines, on average, the various components of the braking system will only last so many miles. 

  • Brake pads – between 20,000 and 65,000 miles
  • Brake rotors – between 30,000 and 70,000 miles
  • Brake calipers – between 75,000 and 100,000 mile
  • Brake drums – about 200,000 miles
  • Brake shoes – about 35,000 miles
  • Brake lines – every 5 to 10 years
  • ABS wheel sensors – between 30,000 and 50,000 miles

As each of these components begins to wear down, they give you ample warning before they fail. You may notice strange noises, such as screeching or squealing. A deep grinding sound is a metal sensor feature put into brake pads to alert you to wearing down. The car may pull to one side or the other if one of the brakes is malfunctioning and in need of repair. 

Paying attention to how your car operates is the best way to alert you to potential problems. When you notice a change, bring your car in and have one of our technicians inspect it, making the necessary repairs to keep you safe. 

Why Wheel Alignment Will Save You Money In The Long Run

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As you drive, your wheels take the brunt of the ride. Every dip you move across, every bump you hit, every turn you make, your tires are there to keep your car balanced and you safe inside. 

Glance at your wheels the next time you get into your car. The tires connect with the road, absorbing the shock of every pothole you hit. But the tires are just one part of your entire steering and handling system designed to help keep you on the road. 

What is wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment is a simple repair designed to keep your car safe as you navigate the roads. It’s the process of positioning a wheel relative to how it sits compared to the other three wheels. It ensures proper balance when compared to the suspension and the tires. The entire surface area of each tire should conform to the road. That only happens when all four wheels are properly aligned. 

When a mechanic performs a wheel alignment, they align the angle of the tires. This affects how each tire will make contact with the road. The mechanic will inspect and adjust three separate angles, including:

Toe – if you look down on your vehicle, the toe angle defines how much each tire turns inward or outward. When properly balanced, all four wheels should be perfectly parallel to one another. 

Camber – when you stand in front of your car and look straight at the tires, camber would refer to the inward or outward angle. Camber angle is measured by the difference between the wheels’ vertical alignment perpendicular to the surface of the road. Camber is used to ensure full distribution of the load across the tread of the tires. 

Why Wheel Alignment Will Save You Money In The Long Run

Caster – this refers to the angle of the steering axis when you view it from the side of your car. This axis should point up and down. Caster alignment will not impact tire wear, but it does affect the directional control of the steering function. 

Wheel alignment is important to the life of a tire

Because driving involves regularly hitting bumps, dips, and potholes, wheel alignment seems like one of those maintenance items you don’t have to think much about. After all, you could hit a pothole leaving the service station. 

Yet without proper wheel alignment, it can compromise the performance of your vehicle. This can influence everything from your car’s ability to brake properly to how much you spend filling up the tank. 

It gives you a smooth ride – when your wheels are in alignment, you’ll experience a smooth ride. No shaking or vibrating. The wheels will operate perfectly parallel to one another, ensuring they stay well connected to the road. 

It gives you better handling – when the tires are perfectly connected to the road, you’ll have better traction. Ever felt your car slip and slide in rainy or wet conditions? That increases without proper alignment. Traction allows you to be able to stop your car faster and in less distance. It gives you better control as you navigate the streets. 

It increases tire life – when the wheels are out of alignment, they don’t make full contact with the road. That means your tire tread will wear out unevenly, increasing the chances they’ll need replacing. 

It increases gas mileage – when your car runs smoothly, it operates as the manufacturer intended. When wheels are out of alignment, it can cause your car to pull to one side or the other while you drive. That makes your car harder to control, and can add up to increased fuel consumption as you fight to keep your vehicle moving down the road. 

It’s necessary when switching tires – do you switch to snow tires or all-terrain tires to move through Colorado winters? Wheel alignment is necessary every time you switch out your tires to ensure proper contact with the road. Different tires, sizes, and treads all require their own unique calibration to keep them safely on the road. 

What if you don’t get wheel alignment?

While you might not consider wheel alignment an important to-do item on your car maintenance list, think again. There are a number of reasons why wheel alignment keeps you safe and saves you money. 

It keeps you safe – safety is everything when driving a car. And if your wheels aren’t properly aligned, it can put you in a dangerous situation. Over time, your tires will wear unevenly, which means they won’t connect properly with the road. That can put you at greater risk when it rains or snows. 

It increases damage – wheel alignment is an easy, cost effective way to keep your vehicle running smoothly. If left unchecked, it can cause further destruction to your steering system. Occasional wheel alignments are much less expensive than replacing your tires before their intended lifespan. 

It increases repairs – with over 10,000 parts on the average car, it can impact many more down the line when one part isn’t working well. That can cause your repair bills to escalate as one thing leads to another. If left unchecked, a faulty wheel alignment can lead to extensive tire damage, which can cause a blowout while you’re driving. At a minimum that might mean tow truck costs, or possibly the costs associated with an accident. 

How many miles will a wheel alignment last?

Like other systems on your vehicle, wheel alignment should be a regular part of your maintenance routine. Most car manufacturers recommend getting an alignment every other oil change, which equates to about every 6,000 miles. 

Of course, this varies depending on your vehicle and the way you drive. The rougher your road conditions, the more likely your vehicle will need aligning sooner rather than later. You can talk with a mechanic to find out what’s best for your vehicle. 

When was the last time you scheduled a wheel alignment? Do it today. 

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