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Better Fuel Efficiency in Winter Driving

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Does it seem that prices are rising higher each day, and your budget is struggling to keep up? Every time you pull into the gas station, the bill takes a bigger bite out of your bank account. 

You’re not imagining it. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, gasoline prices have risen more than 60 percent in just one year. 

That adds up as you’re spending more time in your car once again. If you’ve been dreading the winter months, knowing you’ll spend even more hours in your vehicle, it’s time to do what you can for better fuel efficiency. 

Ice, snow, and cold weather can do more than impact the functionality of your car; it affects your fuel efficiency too. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and the US Environmental Protection Agency, your gas mileage falls as much as 15 percent when the temperatures drop to 20°F or lower when compared to sunshine days in the heart of the summer. 

Luckily, there are easy ways to gain better fuel efficiency, and they won’t cost much on your part. A little bit of action now before the temperatures fall can make all the difference. 

Change your motor oil

Motor oil is a lubricant to keep all the parts in your car’s engine compartment running smoothly. When you start your vehicle, motor oil rotates through the various parts, bringing them to life and keeping them fully operational. 

Motor oil can thicken and become more viscous in cold winter months. While your engine is attempting to operate as usual, the motor oil is a bit more sluggish, meaning it works harder to get all the parts fully lubricated, preventing friction and protecting the transmission, axles, and other components from resisting. 

Better Fuel Efficiency in Winter Driving

Mechanics understand this, and often recommend and use different products at different times of the year. This is one more good reason to schedule an oil change now in the fall, before the snowflakes start to fly. Ensure you have fresh, clean motor oil ready to help you get better gas mileage all winter long. 

Decrease idle time

How often have you headed out to your car early to let it “warm up” before you head into work? Many drivers assume it’s to help the car run better, when what it truly does is make the car warmer inside the passenger cabin. While your vehicle may need to sit a few seconds after starting it to let the motor oil circulate, anything more than 30 seconds is wasteful. What’s better for your vehicle is to spend the first five to ten minutes driving slowly, without putting pressure on the systems. 

This also applies to other errands around town. As you’re waiting for kids to finish school, or for other family members to run in and pick things up, consider turning your car off if it’ll be more than a few minutes. Idling means you’re burning more fuel, which worsens your fuel efficiency. 

Combine your errands

While your car’s dashboard doesn’t show how hot the engine gets under normal working conditions, manufacturers state that the average temperature for a car or truck engine ranges from 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. If the outside temperature hovers in the 60s or 70s, it takes a shorter time period to bring the engine up to temperature than if it’s hovering near zero. 

That puts more stress on the engine as it has to work harder to bring it up to temperature. Instead of repeating this process multiple times during the day, consider consolidating your trips instead. Once the temperature has reached its ideal limit, it takes time to fall back down to outdoor temperature. For your in-and-out errands, this means the engine won’t have to fully warm up each time. As an added bonus, this can help with efficiency too, giving you more time to do the truly essential things in your life. 

Adjust for winter gas blends

When you head to the gas station, you probably don’t give much thought to what gasoline is flowing into your car. You choose regular or premium based on your vehicle’s needs, and drive away. Federal law requires different fuel mixes based on what time of year it is. The Clean Air Act requires using oxygenated gasoline in areas where wintertime carbon monoxide levels exceed federal air quality standards. Without oxygenated fuel, carbon monoxide emissions tend to increase in the cold weather, decreasing your fuel efficiency. 

While this may increase your frustration with winter driving, there is little you can do about it. Be aware of how it impacts the engine, and find ways to shorten your drive time to use less fuel overall. 

Battery performance wanes

Most car battery manufacturers state you’ll get three to seven years of life from the battery. Of course, this is dependent on many things, including how you drive your car as well as the surrounding environment. 

As a car battery begins to age, its performance can be compromised when under stress. Cold weather is just one of those stressors that can take its toll. That means the battery will have to work harder staying charged, while you attempt to operate more electrical parts such as window defrosters, seat warmers, and windshield wipers, trying to stay safe and warm.

If you know your battery is reaching the end of its life, at a minimum, have it checked and inspected before the cold settles in. A good mechanic can help you make an informed decision about the best time to replace your car battery and help you avoid walking out to a dead battery on a bitterly cold morning. 

 Worried about cold weather driving? Wondering how to get better fuel efficiency as gas prices continue to rise? 

Get started by having a thorough inspection to ensure your car is in good working condition. This ensures you replace parts before they leave you stranded, and make decisions about upgrading components without having to do it in emergency situations. 

How can we help you get better fuel efficiency this year? 

Does Winter Weather Really Affect Gas Mileage?

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Here in Colorado, the temperatures can drop suddenly. It may be in the 70s in the middle of the day, but deep in the night, it can become quite frigid. 

While that may cause you to turn on your indoor heating system to stay warm, it may also find you stopping at the gas station more often with your car. Is it your imagination, or does winter weather really affect gas mileage? According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and the US Environmental Protection Agency, it’s not all in your mind. 

Using conventional gasoline, gas mileage will be approximately 15 percent lower at 20°F than it will be at 77°F. For your 3 to 4 mile trip running errands, it can lower as much as 24 percent in the heart of the winter. 

Don’t think your hybrid is more efficient; winter weather is actually harder on efficiency. Fuel economy can drop 30 to 35 percent when the temperatures start falling. 

What impacts your gas mileage in the winter months?

While you can’t pinpoint lower gas mileage to any one behavior, there are a variety of contributing factors that make your car less efficient. They include items both internal and external to your car. 

Does Winter Weather Really Affect Gas Mileage?

Road conditions

Does it seem like it takes twice as long to get to work on bad weather roads? That contributes to more gas used as you make your way down the street. You’ll also be fighting sleet, slush, and snow, which can impact the friction in the way your car handles. 

More idling

Those icy roads cause everyone on the road to slow down. Slower traffic means more idling, which reduces fuel economy. While you might not be able to avoid more idling on the highway, you can avoid idling in your driveway, and as you move throughout your errands. While it might be chilly, resist the urge to allow your car to idle your car to warm it up and keep it warm. An idling car does nothing to warm up the tires or the drivetrain – it’s for your personal satisfaction only. Even in the coldest temperatures, you can start out on your journey after turning the car on – just keep the speeds low to moderate, and don’t push the car until it warms up. Watch the temperature gauge for a good resource to know more about how well your car is handling. 

Lower tire pressure

A 10 degree change in outside temperature will equate to a 1 psi change in tire pressure. If your dashboard icon goes off more frequently in the winter months, alerting you to a tire pressure problem, this is why. Fuel economy decreases about a half-percent for every 1 psi drop in tire pressure. Keep your eye on the pressure gauge, and get your tires tested and filled frequently in the winter. 

More tire resistance

Even when your tires are properly filled, cold weather allows them to perform differently than in the heat of the summer. That’s because tires are flexible, changing shape as they perform while you drive. Sidewalls can bulge; the tread flattens as it connects with the road. But with ice and snow creating uneven patches, it impacts the shape and performance of the tires. This constant rotation combined with changing wear patterns impacts your drive … and your gas mileage. Cold, hard rubber will never perform in the same way as when it does at a more moderate temperature. 

Lower engine temperature

When your car sits in the garage or in a parking spot, the engine settles in at “room” temperature. It adjusts to the airflow around it. As the temperatures dive, the “room” temperatures change, allowing all of the engine components to cool down. To warm it back up as you turn the key, the engine calls upon a richer fuel/air mixture to engage the various parts and start the entire system working. 

Thicker motor oil

Engine oil is designed to operate no matter what temperature it is outside, but it will thicken as it cools. It takes significantly more energy to overcome the drag caused by warming up cold lubricants. Using a synthetic motor oil can help address this problem, since its viscosity is created to better handle extreme temperatures. It pays to have your motor oil changed as we move into autumn, to ensure your car is well prepared for the cooler driving conditions. 

More electrical loads

In colder temperatures, you use more of your electrical accessories:

  • Lights as the daylight hours are at a minimum, and you illuminate the road in cloudy, snowy conditions. 
  • Rear window defogger to help keep the back window clear.
  • Heater warming up the inside of your car. 
  • Heated seats and mirrors make your drive safer and more comfortable. 
  • Windshield washer pump keeps your windows clean as you combat winter driving conditions. 

Winter grades of gasoline

Winter grades of gasoline have less energy when compared to the summer grades. Because gasoline doesn’t vaporize as easily at colder temperatures, gas manufacturers compensate for this by changing their formulas, creating one for cold-weather efficiency. While they may help gas evaporate easier, it reduces the combustion efficiency. 

How can you improve gas mileage in winter months?

After reading what impacts your car’s gas mileage during the winter months, it’s easy to see and build a strategy that will improve efficiency during the coldest months of the year. 

Combine your trips. Instead of running different errands each day of the week, create an “errand day” to get all of your running around completed at one time. This gives your engine a chance to warm up and stay warm as you run around town. 

Keep an eye on your tire pressure, stopping to fill them whenever they drop. 

Choose a warm place for your car. This may mean cleaning the garage, or pulling into a parking garage at night. 

Reduce time spent idling. Can you avoid the busiest parts of the day? Be prepared to leave rather than allowing your car to idle for several minutes to warm up. Warming the car is for your comfort, not your car’s. 

Clean out your car. While you should always have a winter emergency kit, leave excess personal items at home as increased weight causes further drag on the car. If you have bike racks and other accessories you won’t be using for several months, now is a good time to remove them. 

Here in Colorado, winter weather is a part of our daily lives. When the worst weather impacts us, knowing these few gas mileage tips will help you make the most of your fuel economy. 

Haven’t had your oil changed, or a winter weather inspection yet? Set up your appointment today, to ensure your vehicle is ready for the worst days. 

What Car Maintenance Items Should You Do After Buying a Used Car

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There are many reasons a used car is the perfect vehicle to suit your needs. 

  • Maybe you’re finding a first car for your son or daughter. 
  • Maybe you want a reliable second car for odd jobs you have around the house.
  • Maybe you’re looking for reliable transportation without the high cost of a new car.

Over 43 million used cars were sold in the US in 2021. Whether you buy it from a dealer, a used car lot, or a private seller in your own community, it’s good to get to know your used car before you rely on it to get you where you’re going. 

It’s easy to assume that the previous owner cared for the car well. But in truth, you can never be sure they handled maintenance issues the way you would. 

To give your new-to-you vehicle the best chance at a long life, why not give it a little car maintenance? 

What Car Maintenance Items Should You Do After Buying a Used Car

Car maintenance after buying a new car is the perfect way to ensure everything works well and is in the best shape possible. 

Where do you begin?

Start with your owner’s manual

Most drivers spend little time with their vehicle’s owner’s manual. That’s a mistake. 

Not all cars are the same. They are created using different parts and systems, each requiring different levels of maintenance. By opening up your owner’s manual, you can start learning how the designers built your car, and what recommendations they make for regular maintenance. Manufacturers know best. 

As you scan the manual, start making a list of areas you wish to check out. You can use your car’s mileage as a guide for follow-up on parts and systems. Here’s a list of potential maintenance items you may wish to consider:

  • Motor oil and oil filter replacement
  • Check and top off all fluids inside the vehicle
  • Replace spark plugs 
  • Replace coolant
  • Check brake fluid
  • Rotate and balance tires
  • Check the tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips
  • Ensure the spare tire is in good shape

This is your starting point. If you have any other questions after reading your manual, be sure to bring them up with a mechanic on your next scheduled visit. 

Get those fluids changed

Now that you know your vehicle a little better, your first step should be to replace as many serviceable fluids as possible. Because you don’t know how well the previous driver treated the vehicle, it’s best to start out with a car that’s as well cared for and up to date as possible. 

If the previous owner gave you a maintenance log with receipts for fluid changes, you may choose to skip this step. Otherwise, this is an important step for after-purchase maintenance for all secondhand vehicles. 

We listed many of the standard fluids to change out above: motor oil, coolant or antifreeze, and possibly a brake fluid flush. 

Depending on what you intend to do with the vehicle, you might choose to replace the transmission fluid, or change out the differential gear oil if you’ll be hauling heavy loads. 

This is about creating a vehicle you can trust for many years to come. 

Replace filters

For most drivers, replacing filters means starting with the oil filter. Most likely, the mechanic will suggest that when they change out the motor oil. 

It’s also a good idea to replace the engine’s air filter. The air filter helps keep harmful contaminants from entering the engine, and ensures only clean air, without debris, reaches the engine’s main components. If this becomes clogged, it can set off a host of problems throughout your car. 

There’s one more filter that many people forget or ignore: the cabin air filter. This affects the air supply that enters the passenger compartment. This air filter is usually underneath the dashboard, and helps filter out pollen, dust, and debris, so it doesn’t build up in your vehicle’s heating and cooling system. A new air filter will give you cleaner air to breathe and better performance too. 

Don’t forget to check the tires

There’s nothing a little elbow grease can’t hide. If the previous owner cleaned the tires well enough, you may overlook key problem areas that suggest your tires need replacing. Because a blow-out can impact your safety, it’s a good idea to have them thoroughly inspected before you start driving. 

Where do you start? Check the tread wear; it’s easy to do. Most tires start with a tire tread of around 10/32”. The soft rubber starts to wear away as you add mileage to the vehicle. This is what gives your tires traction in all kinds of handling situations. Most states regulate tires unsafe to drive when they reach 2/32”, but is that really safe? 

While a mechanic will use a gauge to check tread depth, you can do a simple test yourself. Take a penny and slip it into the tire tread as a depth gauge. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. The top of Lincoln’s head to the penny edge is roughly 2/32”. 

You should also check sidewalls for cracks. If something appears to stand out, it’s better to get it inspected before heading out on the open road. Getting the wheels balanced and aligned will also ensure even wear on your tires in the coming weeks.   

Finding a mechanic you can trust

Mechanics are a lot like doctors; if you can find one you can trust, you’ll be assured your car is in good condition throughout the year. 

If you didn’t get an inspection before you finalized your used car purchase, it’s not too late now that you own it. In fact, it’s the perfect time to ensure it’s in great condition, so that it will be reliable and provide you with safety and security for as long as you drive the car. 

Have a question about your new-to-you used car? We can help. 

These Are The Signs of a Bad Fuel Pump

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Without fuel, your car won’t operate. That’s easy to understand.

Yet understanding how fuel helps cars operate is a bit more complicated. A fuel pump’s primary task is to move fuel from the gas tank to other parts of the fuel system. If any part of that system starts to fuel, it stops your car in its tracks. 

But how do you diagnose it as a bad fuel pump and not some other problem within the car?

What is a fuel pump?

How does the fuel delivery system work inside your car? With a fuel tank, metal piping, and a variety of other components, gasoline moves from the tank to the engine, providing a source of energy. 

A fuel pump is either a mechanical or electrical mechanism that moves fuel from the gas tank through a fuel filter to a fuel rail. From there, fuel is distributed to fuel injectors and sprayed into each engine cylinder’s combustion chamber. If you have an older car with a carburetor, the fuel is pumped there. 

An electric fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, which clicks into action when you start the car. By turning the key, you instruct the pump to pressurize the fuel and push it through the piping. A second electrical or engine-driven pump is designed to boost fuel pressure. This high pressure releases fuel to the fuel injectors. 

This system is very reliable. When it works well, your car will start easily every time. Fuel pumps aren’t part of a regular routine maintenance schedule like changing out motor oil or air filters. Most fuel pumps should last 100,000 miles or more. 

These Are The Signs of a Bad Fuel Pump

Bad fuel pump symptoms

Like most parts built into modern cars, it rarely dies without warning signs. If you pay attention to sounds, noises, and actions, you’ll pick up on the fact that a part is wearing down. Bad fuel pump symptoms include:

Your car won’t stay running

You start your car up like normal, but it dies shortly after. You try it again, and it operates properly. While you might forget about it if it happens once, if it is a bad fuel pump, this will start occurring with more frequency. 

Your car sputters as you step on the gas

If you’ve ever felt your car hesitate when you step on the gas pedal, you know the feeling I’m referring to. You expect your car to move forward like it always does. But it hesitates, sputters, as if the gas isn’t making its way into the system. It may only be a few seconds before it returns to normal. If you start feeling this with frequency, it might be a bad fuel pump. 

Your car dies for no reason at all

This often occurs at inopportune times. Maybe you’re pulling a heavy load up the mountains. Or cruising up a hill on your way home from work. Suddenly, your car goes from on to off, without energy keeping your car operational. If the fuel pump can’t keep an appropriate level of fuel running through the engine, it won’t have the energy necessary to stay operational. You’ve probably got a bad fuel pump. 

Your car simply won’t start

Depending on what happens to the fuel pump as it’s failing, it may stop working altogether. When this happens, you’re stuck. 

You notice decreased fuel efficiency 

If you notice you’re filling up more at the gas station, it can be one of many issues. If your car suddenly requires more fuel to operate effectively, it may be a sign of a bad fuel pump. It’s best to get your car checked out by a mechanic to find the problem before it grows into a bigger issue. 

Your check engine light comes on

This is a fail-safe for many parts within the engine compartment. If the sensor senses something isn’t working right, it illuminates on the dashboard to alert you to a potential problem. It’s time to bring your car in for a diagnostics test to pinpoint where the problem is. 

Why fuel pumps fail

Your car has over 10,000 parts that make it run efficiently as you drive it down the road. When even one part is off its game, it can impact dozens more down the line. Because fuel pumps are designed to last 100,000 miles or more, a problem is usually reactionary to something else failing. It can be:

Pump issues – the pump itself contains multiple parts that allow it to pressurize as it operates. It has a series of pressure and relief valves to ensure fuel is moved efficiently throughout the system. If any one of these parts fails, it can reduce output pressure, stopping or recirculating fuel back into the tank, leaving the engine without proper levels. 

Fuel problems – your car requires a certain quality level of fuel to make it operate well. Paying attention to the octane level is the first step. Also pay attention to where you fuel up. Poor quality service stations can give you less than stellar fuel sources that allow sludge to build up in your tank. 

https://denverexpresscare.com/understanding-your-cars-fuel-system

Clogged fuel filter

When was the last time you changed the fuel filter? If not replaced at regular intervals, it can restrict fuel flow and cause the fuel pump to fail. Reduced fuel flow can put pressure on other areas of the system, which can result in a variety of deficiencies, including overheating. 

Damaged fuel line

How many rough roads are on your way to and from work? That pothole may have done more damage than you thought. If a fuel line has a dent or pinches the fuel source, it can lead to reduced fuel supply circulating throughout the system. If the fuel pump doesn’t receive a steady stream of fuel, it can cause fuel pump failure. 

Age

As you move closer to the 100,000 mark, it’s a cumulative effect for every part of your car. While you may not be able to pinpoint any one potential problem, at some point, your fuel pump may just wear out. 

Your fuel pump is sending you a warning sign. Are you listening? 

A bad fuel pump can wreak havoc in many ways. Get your fuel pump fixed today. 

When Your Car’s Heater Isn’t Working Right

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Cold, winter mornings have a way of creeping up on you each year. The days grow shorter. You wake up and start your day before the sun rises. As you rush to your car, your thoughts drift over your day ahead: meetings, a deadline for a project, a few phone calls you need to make. You don’t think much about how cold your car is; it’ll warm up quickly. 

But it doesn’t. A few miles down the road, you start noticing how cold it is. Your car’s heater isn’t working right, and it’s blowing cold air all around you. You notice a few snowflakes starting to fall, and you shiver in response. 

Now what? 

How a car’s heating system works

Your car’s heating system includes a few basic components: heater core, blower fan, heater control valve, heater hoses, the ventilation system, and control panel located inside the car. 

Heat is created by the engine, and needs someplace to go. Most of that is filtered out through the exhaust system, with the rest remaining in the engine, transferred to the coolant. 

When your vehicle reaches operating temperature, the thermostat opens up and allows coolant to circulate throughout the system. It removes any heat from the engine, sending it into the radiator and the heater core. From there, it distributes the heat into your cabin. You control the temperature, ensuring the passenger section is as warm or cool as you desire. 

When Your Car’s Heater Isn’t Working Right

For the heater to work properly, the cooling system needs to be in good working condition. That means the correct mix of coolant and water, with proper coolant levels and no leaks in the system. The thermostat should open and close at the proper temperature levels, with the water pump circulating coolant through the engine, radiator, and heating core as needed. If this system works well, your heater will be there to provide conditioned air at the levels you desire. 

When your car heater isn’t working, there’s something wrong in the system. 

Low coolant levels

One of the first things to check is also one of the most common reasons for a heater to stop working. If the coolant levels are low within the system, it can’t circulate properly through the system. In optimal working conditions, coolant levels won’t change. If there is a leak, it can occur anywhere within the system: cracked coolant tank, broken gasket, faulty hose, etc. 

If the heater doesn’t warm up and start blowing heated air within ten minutes, the coolant might be too low to circulate through the heater core. While you may feel it inside the cabin with little to no heat, your car’s engine feels it in different ways. Without proper coolant levels, the engine might overheat, which is an expensive repair to fix. 

Coolant isn’t like other fluids. It won’t evaporate, and adding more into the system won’t fix the problem. You’ll have to find the root cause and fix the problem at the source.  

Malfunctioning thermostat

Your car’s thermostat is a valve that opens and closes to regulate coolant flow into the engine and radiator. While it’s a simplistic device, it’s vital to keeping your engine running at the proper temperature. 

A malfunctioning thermostat is often stuck in the open or closed position. If it’s stuck in the open position, it allows too much coolant to flow, preventing the car from reaching optimal operating temperature. A thermostat stuck in the closed position won’t allow coolant to circulate, which stops the heat from flowing properly throughout the system. Both will be noticeable by decreased performance. 

Faulty heater core

The heater core works similarly to the radiator. While the radiator dissipates heat to the surrounding air, the heater core sends heat into the passenger cabin by a blower fan. 

The heater core uses a maze of narrow tubes and fins for proper circulation. If any one of these is blocked or damaged, it reduces the coolant level or flow through the engine’s cooling system. A faulty heater core and low coolant levels often are interchangeable, with one impacting the other. Two easy ways to tell if your heater core has been compromised include windows that easily fog up, or a sweet-smelling scent lingering inside your car. Both are signs you should schedule a maintenance visit soon. 

Faulty blower fan

When you turn up the heat on the dashboard panel inside your car, the heater core captures warm air from the coolant and transfers it into the cabin as a warm air supply. The blower fan makes it possible for ventilation of the warm air from the heater core, pushing it out through the vents. If the blower fan isn’t working, there will be no way to transfer the warmed air supply out through the vents. 

The blower fan can malfunction for a variety of reasons. It could be a blown fuse, or damage to the internal components of the blower fan. If you barely feel a breeze no matter how high you turn up the heat, chances are it’s a problem with the blower fan. 

Other problems

Of course, the above are some of the most popular reasons why your car’s heating system might not be working. But cars today are built with more than 10,000 parts. If a wire frays, a hose cracks, a part breaks, or fluid stops flowing, it will cause problems throughout the system. 

The only way to get to the root of the problem is with a thorough diagnostics test. 

Get cozy once again – schedule a maintenance visit today

Colorado weather is unpredictable at best. While it might be sunny and warm enough for the windows to be rolled down today, the snow could be flying by the time you rise for work tomorrow. 

It’s hard to enjoy the ride in, or be stuck in traffic if you’re shivering inside a cold car. A heating system not operating correctly is a sign of a bigger problem. 

An inspection will help locate the problem, allowing mechanics to get to the broken or faulty piece quickly, and have you back on the road in no time. 

Have you ever experienced a car heater not operating correctly?

After Buying a Used Car – Fix These Used Car Problems

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So you’ve bought a new-to-you car. You’re happy with your purchase. You researched the make and model, and scoured over the “for sale” section for weeks. After hours of searching and negotiating, the used car is yours. Now what? 

The price of used cars is skyrocketing all across America. A recent study found that the average used car price was $29,011, up 39 percent from just a year before. 

With prices rising, you may bid quickly on a used car, trying to secure its purchase. That also puts you at a greater risk of investing in a used car that may have problems. 

With a fast purchase process, how do you know? After buying a used car, your best course of action is to take it in for a thorough inspection. It’s a great way to get to know your used car a little better, and have a better understanding of its condition. 

Taking your car in for a maintenance inspection

When you purchase a used car, your first thought might be to take it out on the open road and see how it drives. It’s new to you, appears to run well, and you’re excited about having reliable transportation. 

Yet before you park it in the garage and return to daily living, take some time to ensure you made a sound purchase. Schedule a maintenance inspection with one of our mechanics. 

A good place to start is with an oil change. This will help you develop a pattern with your car, and start you on the road to success. Vehicles need fresh oil every 5,000 miles or so to ensure they operate well. This will also put you in charge of what type of oil your car uses, and ensure quality throughout.

After Buying a Used Car - Fix These Used Car Problems

From there, by alerting a mechanic that you’re the new owner, they will be able to move through the car carefully, evaluating different systems for safety and security. 

A diagnostic test will ensure the technology is working well. This is one of the easiest ways to ensure every system operates at its best levels. 

Fluid checks are a great place to start

A mechanic may also test each fluid level to ensure they are in good condition. If you don’t know when they were last changed, it’s a good way to move forward. Other fluids to check include:

Coolant – coolant (also known as antifreeze) plays an important role in keeping your engine at operating temperature. Check with your owner’s manual for more details, but in general, manufacturers recommend flushing and replacing your coolant every one to two years. Some models use extended life antifreeze, which may last up to five years. 

Brake fluid – brake fluid is important to the overall health of your brake system. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked fluids for replacement. Over time, brake fluid becomes contaminated with particles that compromise the fluid. This reduces the stopping power of the car, which puts you and your passengers at risk. A mechanic can evaluate the risk inside your brake system, and help you make the right call. It is typically replaced every two years or so, depending on the make and model of your car. 

Transmission fluid – does your car’s make or model have a history of transmission problems? Why not start it out right and replace the transmission fluid now. Fluid replacement is necessary around 60,000 miles for most vehicles. But if you aren’t sure of how the car was handled by the previous owner, it’s a good idea to replace it now. A higher mileage used car is the perfect candidate for a transmission fluid replacement. It prevents future breakdowns on the road. 

Used car problems – fix them early

When you invest in a used car, you hope to have a reliable car for years to come. Initial maintenance checks are a great way to ensure it doesn’t leave you stranded by the side of the road. 

What’s the most critical system on a vehicle? Arguably, many would state the braking system ranks high on the list. Imagine coming home from a day of skiing and the braking system stops working. Yep, it’s easy to see how vital brakes can be. 

That’s reason enough to let a professional mechanic look at the braking system of your new used car. 

Start with the obvious – the tires. If the seller shined them up, defects may be a bit hidden. A mechanic knows what to look for, and will spot potential problems. They will check the date the tires were manufactured, and inspect them for signs of damage. If they’ve been sitting for a while without moving, they may have cracks on the sidewalls. A mechanic can pick up on these nuances and give you a better idea of what to watch for. 

From there, they will test brake pads, brake rotors, and ensure the hydraulics are working well. They can alert you to how much brake pad is left, to give you a better idea of when they’ll need replacing in the future. 

Mileage – it tells a lot

Every part of your car has a lifespan. The more mileage on your vehicle, the more parts will need replacing. 

With a new car, every part starts at the beginning. They wear down as you operate under normal driving conditions. 

But with a used car, you have no idea how the previous owner maintained the vehicle. Were they proactive? Or did they wait for maintenance problems to surface? 

When you invest in a used car, you’re choosing your starting point. You receive the vehicle as is, but you’re in control of how well it operates in the future. 

If you want your used car to last for years to come, the best course of action is to err on the side of maintenance, and choose to invest in repair work now. 

A full inspection will help you determine what parts to replace now, and give you a schedule of what to replace in the future. Having a professional mechanic on your side will create a routine that allows your used car to be in the best shape possible, now and well into the future. 

Did you recently buy a used car? Congratulations!

Let us help you get the longest life possible from your purchase. Schedule your used car inspection today.

Why a Car Overheats When The AC Is On

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If you had to choose one accessory on your vehicle that you simply couldn’t live without, what would it be? The radio? Heated seats? Air conditioning?

On a 95-degree day, no matter where it fell on your list before, chances are the AC moved quickly to the top. 

You’re stuck in traffic. You have a meeting to get to. The temperature keeps climbing up, up, up!

You turn up the AC unit one more notch. The cool air feels great. 

And then suddenly, everything changes. You feel it in your car’s behavior. The cool air isn’t so cool. The temperature gauge starts to climb. You hear noises that weren’t there before. You play around with buttons and dials, trying to find the cause. 

You’ve determined the car overheats when the AC is on. 

Why is your car overheating when the AC is on?

There are several reasons why a car might overheat when the AC is on and running full blast trying to keep you cool. The likely causes include:

It could be an AC compressor overload. When you turn the AC on, the compressor starts to work with the engine to move and compress the refrigerant cylinders, which builds pressure inside the engine. A car’s air conditioner draws significant power from the engine. If you’re putting a high load on the compressor and it isn’t in top shape to perform the task, eventually, it will make the car overheat. A high load will damage the AC compressor over time, preventing it from blowing cold air out into the passenger compartment. If this continues to fester, the car engine can overheat, causing more problems within the engine compartment over time.  

Why a Car Overheats When The AC Is On

It could be a malfunctioning cooling system. It’s one of the most common reasons for an overheating car. Problems often start small, such as a leak in the radiator. It’s running out of water and needs refilling to keep it operational. It might be a buildup of dirt or debris in the radiator, preventing fluids from moving smoothly throughout the system. Take a look at the radiator; do you notice corrosion or other buildup on the surface? While the radiator can be washed off with a low stream of water, it might also be a sign of a bigger problem. Bringing it in for a full inspection will help pinpoint the situation to determine what repairs will get it back to working condition. 

It could be a problem with the fan. A lot of city driving is based on sitting in traffic, waiting at stop lights, and idling. If the air isn’t flowing correctly into the radiator, it can overheat. It can be caused by several things, including a blockage in the fins, a faulty electric fan, fan clutch, or fan switch. If you notice the car overheating more during idle situations, the engine fan probably is clogged or dirty, with lowered levels of airflow throughout the system. 

It could be the radiator. The radiator is designed to pass coolant into the engine. That’s why the radiator plays an important role in your car’s overall functionality. If the radiator works correctly, it passes coolant over metallic fins into the engine, which helps the vehicle operate properly. If this process has any faults in the system, the coolant is disrupted, which leads to problems within the cooling system. Suppose you start to see the engine temperature climbing after you turn on the AC. In that case, it’s a good idea to check the radiator and ensure the various components operate as designed. 

It could be a problem with the coolant temperature sensor. Today’s modern cars are built with multiple sensors to help alert you to potential problems before they impact the functionality of the vehicle. While it’s rare that a coolant temperature sensor would go out and allow the car to overheat, if you’ve considered other possibilities and still can’t find the problem, this is worth checking out. The coolant temperature is measured by the sensor and compared to the temperature within the dashboard system. If there is a discrepancy in the readings, it could cause the dashboard light to illuminate, signaling a problem. If it reads normal, but the temperature still continues to climb, it could also be a malfunction in the thermostat. To fix the thermostat or the coolant temperature sensor, bring your vehicle to a professional mechanic for replacement. 

It could be a fault in other components. Every time you drive your vehicle, it can be impacted by many different things:

  • The environment
  • The weather
  • Potholes
  • Bumps
  • Extreme heat
  • Extreme cold
  • Sudden stops
  • Urban driving conditions 

The list is never-ending. Parts wear out, sometimes in a manner you might not expect. You can be diligent with your routine maintenance, carefully watch manufacturer’s suggestions to replace parts at peak times, and still experience sudden problems with different components in your car. 

If the compressor, condenser, evaporator, or refrigerant aren’t in proper working condition, they will impact the way your AC unit functions. And when the temperatures start to climb, it leads to the engine overheating. 

What to do if the car overheats

Sometimes you can do everything right and the engine still overheats. The first thing you should do is turn the AC system off, and pull over to a safe spot off of the road. 

Do not try to open the hood of the car, especially if you see smoke coming from around. Steam is scorching, and can severely damage your hands, eyes, and face. 

If it’s a one-time problem, solutions can include:

  • Cleaning the radiator – it’s one of the most common reasons for overheating, especially if it’s clogged and antifreeze and water can’t pass through to the engine. 
  • Checking the compressor – if you hear any noise coming from the compressor, bringing it in for inspection will ensure it’s operating properly. 
  • Flushing the cooling system – if coolant is low or is compromised, it isn’t working as it should. A coolant flush will ensure proper antifreeze levels are topped off inside the system. 
  • Check the refrigerant – this is an essential ingredient to help keep your AC unit functional. If refrigerant levels haven’t been checked in a while, a visit to a professional mechanic will ensure its functioning. 

Final words

With over 10,000 parts, every component works together to perform well under all the driving conditions you incur each day. When you notice a change in the way your vehicle drives, it’s a sign it’s time for an inspection. 

Finding the solution early can fix the problem before it escalates into something bigger and more expensive. If you notice an issue with your AC unit, bring it in today so we can check it out. 

We’ll have you back on the road in no time. 

The Most Common Sensors Used In Your Car’s Engine

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A car’s engine can be considered the central component that gives a vehicle the power to move. An internal combustion engine creates tiny, contained explosions to produce the energy necessary for movement. And while many refer to it as a car engine, it’s actually made up of several individual components all working together simultaneously. Engine sensors give it precision, ensuring the car engine works seamlessly as it ages. 

A car engine is designed around sealed, metal cylinders. Most vehicles today have between four and eight cylinders, which are made to open and close precisely as fuel and air enter with a spark for burning internally, exhausting the gasses produced outside. While there are many separate components, the essential include:

  • Engine block – the core of the engine 
  • Pistons – transfers energy created from combustion to the crankshaft to help propel the vehicle 
  • Crankshaft – the crankshaft turns the pistons up and down at engine speed
  • Camshaft – the camshaft regulates the timing of opening and closing of the valves, and the up and down motion of the crankshaft to control the movement of the pushrods and valves. 
  • Cylinder head –  is attached to the engine through cylinder bolts, sealed within the head gasket. It contains many of the internal parts of the engine and controls the passageways that allow airflow into the cylinders and exhaust back out. 
  • Timing belt/chain – the camshaft and crankshaft need precise timing to work properly. The timing belt/chain provides the action. 

While each of these components and systems are designed to work seamlessly together, modern day vehicles also use sensors for more precise movement. Modern car engines have up to 30 separate sensors to keep everything running properly, to control everything, and ensure optimal performance. 

The Most Common Sensors Used In Your Car’s Engine

Not every vehicle will come with the same type of sensors. Yet some are more universal, meaning you can find them across the board. The most common sensors in a car engine include:

Engine oil level sensor

One of the most common sensors is the engine oil level sensor. This sensor measures the oil levels inside the engine, ensuring it’s operating at safe capacity. If the oil drops below a certain level, the sensor will catch it and illuminate an oil level warning light on your dashboard. This sensor is often located at the bottom of the oil pan, which requires draining the engine oil in order to replace it. 

Engine oil pressure sensor

The engine oil pressure sensor is similar to the oil level sensor. It measures the oil pressure from the oil pump. It’s located at the engine block, often near the fuel filter.  These can often crack with age, which can cause a leak before it malfunctions. In most cases, people notice this when it illuminates on the dashboard. 

Coolant temperature sensor

A coolant temperature sensor monitors the coolant temperature, which is a great way to determine how efficient your engine’s overall temperature is. If an engine gets too hot, damage can occur. In newer cars, this coolant temperature monitors the inside temperature and can turn the engine off if the temperature gets too high.  

Mass airflow sensor

This sensor measures the amount of air flowing into the engine. It’s a computerized device that regulates the volume and density of air being moved throughout the system. It also ensures fuel is taken into the engine at the proper level. It’s located on the intake hose between the intake manifold and the air filter. 

Oxygen sensors

Oxygen sensors measure the air-fuel mixture from the exhaust, and determine how effective the catalytic converter is. One oxygen sensor measures air effectiveness before it enters the catalytic converter, and the other measures effectiveness after. If not enough emissions control is performed during the process, it alerts you via the check engine light on the dashboard. 

Knock sensors

Engine knock is a severe problem in combustion engines. It’s caused when the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder does not result in detonation and ignition from the spark plug. A knock sensor is there to ensure the engine doesn’t suffer from detonation, or the knocking process of not igniting correctly. A knock in the car engine can cause extensive damage to the internal parts. The knock sensor focuses this process and alerts you to a potential problem.

Crankshaft/camshaft position sensors

Engine timing relies on the crankshaft and camshaft executing in perfect tune. Position sensors time both to ensure they move together, always knowing where the other one is. If those positions are off even a fraction of a percent, you need to know as soon as possible. Having sensors on both the crankshaft and camshaft ensures both are in the proper position every time they move. 

Engine speed sensor

This sensor is attached to the crankshaft, and is responsible for monitoring the spinning motion. This controls fuel injection as well as timing for when the engine runs. This sensor ensures the car won’t stall or spin out of control while driving down the road. 

Manifold absolute pressure sensor

The manifold absolute pressure sensor measures the pressure in the manifold. It further supports the mass airflow sensor by measuring how much air makes it into the engine. This is critical to fuel-injection engines as it optimizes the air-fuel ratio for optimal performance. 

Exhaust temperature sensor

Depending on the make and model of your car, you may have one to four exhaust sensors designed to measure exhaust gas temperature before and after the particle filter. It controls engine conditions and effectively reduces emissions. 

Summary

While these aren’t all the sensors located throughout the engine compartment, it’s a list of just some of the sensors you’ll find in a vehicle. These are some of the more common sensors, and are likely to be the ones you’ll encounter problems with. 

While dashboard lights may be a bit annoying when they illuminate frequently, they are designed to alert you to problems as they arise, before they escalate into more significant problems. It’s the perfect way to fix an issue before it has the chance to destroy your car. 

What engine sensors have you had a problem with in the past? 

How Heat Impacts Your Transmission

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Living in Colorado means you’ll never have a dull moment when it comes to the weather. One day may see snow and cold, followed by record-breaking heat that leaves you sweltering under the sun. 

Imagine how your car feels as it hits the hot pavement, sitting in traffic, heat moving all around it. Heat impacts a lot of things: the tires, the engine, gas mileage. But it also impacts something you might not think much about: your transmission. 

What is a transmission?

Your car’s transmission is one of the most critical components. It’s what moves power from the engine to the wheels. It’s what makes your car go. 

Most modern vehicles today use an automatic transmission. If you drive a high-performance vehicle, you may still have a manual transmission in place – a stick-shift requiring you as the driver to take the necessary steps to move the gears into place. 

With a manual transmission, the driver pushes in a clutch and selects the proper gear. It uses a flywheel, pressure plate, and clutch to disengage the transmission from the engine. This flywheel and pressure plate are connected to the engine, with the clutch between to connect the transmission. Every time you shift, you push the clutch to disengage the clutch from the engine, before moving into proper gear.  

Automatic transmissions don’t use clutches to change gears. Instead, they rely on a torque converter to move to the appropriate gear as you pick up speed and slow down. 

Is the transmission overheating?

One of the most common reasons for transmission failure is overheating. Luckily, transmissions give tell-tale signs of overheating before catastrophic failure occurs. If you notice the symptoms and take quick action, it can be the difference between a quick fix and total transmission failure. 

How Heat Impacts Your Transmission

For an overheating transmission, you might notice:

  • A hesitation or delayed gear shift as you are driving
  • A grinding or shaking sensation that occurs while idling or accelerating
  • The gears “slipping” when accelerating or slowing down
  • A sudden burning odor inside and outside the vehicle

Any one of these signs is a warning to bring your car in for inspection quickly to avoid bigger problems. 

How higher heat impacts our vehicle’s transmission

If you notice more vehicles by the side of the road during high heat, there’s a reason for that. 

Even the most powerful cooling system in the world has a hard time standing up to high heat. You see it in your home with your air conditioner. You see it in your car with the way it operates. If the weather is hot and dry, it creates more heat in and around the engine compartment. It works hard to try and stay cool. The added stress of city driving can do more harm, especially if the transmission is under pressure. 

Low or bad transmission fluid – transmission fluid is one of those additives that you don’t think much about because it isn’t like motor oil where you change it regularly. Most vehicles on the road today require transmission fluid changes every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on if you drive a manual or automatic vehicle. Check your owner’s manual for more details. Transmission fluid keeps the transmission lubricated and ensures the components operate at an optimal rate and temperature. If the transmission fluid is running low, or has been compromised, it will cause the transmission to overheat. 

Radiator or cooling system problems – the radiator and cooling system are responsible for keeping the vehicle cool regardless of what the outside temperature is, the driving distance, or how much pressure is placed on the vehicle. If the radiator or cooling system have issues, it leads to problems in other areas of your vehicle, including the transmission. 

Solenoid issues – a failing transmission may also be caused by a problematic solenoid. A solenoid is an electro-hydraulic valve that helps regulate fluid flowing in and out of the transmission. If the solenoid goes bad, it prevents the transmission fluid from flowing freely through the system. This leads to a transmission possibly overheating, and eventually, total failure. 

Transmission sensor problems – today’s modern cars have sensors throughout the vehicle regulating action and inaction. The transmission uses multiple electric sensors to help it run smoothly and regulate the entire system’s operations. If any one of these sensors goes bad, it can be enough to allow issues to start building within the transmission. If not caught and replaced early, it can lead to overheating.  

How to keep transmission from overheating

Like other systems within your vehicle, maintenance is key to avoiding catastrophic problems. To keep the transmission healthy, be proactive with maintenance and instill preventative actions into your schedule. 

Schedule regular maintenance

Cars need more than oil and gasoline to stay operational. Parts will wear out over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule regular maintenance visits with a mechanic you can trust to ensure every system remains in good working condition. For your transmission, this means scheduling maintenance based on guidelines around age and mileage. An inspection can help you determine the best time for replacing fluids and parts. 

Watch for warning signs

When you drive your car every day, you get used to the touch and feel of every system. You can tell when something isn’t right. Don’t ignore these signs. Even the little ones are warning you of potentially bigger problems. This is when you should schedule an inspection to ensure everything is working correctly. This can make the difference between a small part and a significant repair. 

Treat your transmission with care

This is another reason to back off aggressive driving. Avoid idling for extended periods. Come to a complete stop to allow the shifting mechanism to complete its cycle. Avoid aggressive acceleration and deceleration. Pay attention to how you drive when you head up into the mountains. 

If you continue treating your car with kindness, it will give you a long life virtually trouble-free. Maintenance is always a better, safer, and less expensive route than to take the attitude of “wait and see.”

When was the last time you had your transmission expected? Don’t wait until the heat impacts your vehicle. Schedule your appointment today. 

The Most Important Car Safety Services You May Need Right Now

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Today’s modern vehicles are many things:

  • An errand runner
  • A storage unit
  • A chauffeuring service
  • A long-haul provider

Whether you use it for work or play, most of us can’t imagine life without a car.

When was the last time you considered the safety features that help keep you and your passengers safe?

When was the last time you ensured each safety feature was well maintained, and able to perform its job at the highest level? 

Whether you’re a new or experienced driver, if you have a vehicle sitting and ready for you every time you walk out the door, ensuring the safety features are well cared for is mandatory for safe driving. 

What car safety services should you invest in, especially as we move through the seasons?

The basics – windshield wipers and washer fluid

Colorado’s climate can be hard on windshield wipers. You can go weeks – months- without turning them on. Then when you do, they groan as they swipe over the windshield, the dry rubber trying to perform its job. 

The Most Important Car Safety Services You May Need Right Now

They don’t cost much, and they are easy to replace. They are also one of the top safety features to ensure you have clear visibility of everything happening around you. If you can’t remember the last time you changed out your windshield wipers, make now the time. 

Of course, windshield wipers won’t work if you don’t have washer fluid available when you need it. And with the long, dusty summers, followed by snowy, mucky winter driving, chances are you’ll be using your windshield wipers more than you imagine. Don’t wait and wish you had them in place while you’re driving down the road. Be proactive and replace them now. 

Tires – helping you drive in all kinds of driving conditions

Tires help connect your vehicle to the road. If you’ve ever looked around at tires, you know there are many different sizes, types, and styles. What you select will determine your traction, performance, and safety. That’s why drivers often change them out periodically throughout the year, using performance tires in the summer, followed by snow tires in the winter for increased traction. 

But it’s more than the tires themselves. It’s the way they are installed on your vehicle, and the way they are maintained throughout their lifespan. Some of the services to focus on as tires age include:

  • Tire pressure – ensuring each tire maintains proper air pressure as you drive
  • Tire rotation – to ensure tires wear evenly
  • Balancing checks – to keep each tire properly balanced
  • Alignment checks – to keep your car moving smoothly down the road

If you notice anything wrong with a tire’s performance, have it checked quickly to avoid bigger problems. 

Brakes – help keep you on the road

Your tires help bring your car to a stop and keep your car under control, but it’s the braking system that does most of the work. Imagine your vehicle traveling down a mountain road, tires to the pavement, smooth sailing as you enjoy a day away from the city. Now imagine it without properly working brakes. The two work hand in hand to keep you safe and in control. 

As a part of car safety services, checking the brakes is an important step. Whether you’re heading out on a road trip, or just getting ready for a new season of driving, a quick stop for an inspection will tell you all you need to know about the brakes. 

One of the easiest places to start is by inspecting the brake pads. A quick check ensures you have plenty of use left on the brake pad, and that it’s connecting properly with the brake rotor. Brakes do give you warning signals if something is amiss: a loud squealing noise, or a squishy feel when you press on the brake pedal. An inspection is always good before you head out on the road, but if you notice something isn’t quite right, bring it in right away. 

Suspension – for a smooth ride every time

The tires maintain contact with the road. The brakes give you the ability to slow down and stop. But it’s your suspension system that makes the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. Imagine if you felt every bump and dip in the road … it wouldn’t be very comfortable. 

It’s your vehicle’s suspension system that ensures a stable ride. Not only does it give you a smooth ride, but it also keeps your vehicle safe as it navigates everything it encounters on its journey. 

To ensure the suspension system is in alignment, a technician will perform several procedures and techniques to check the condition of the car. This alignment process is for two basic things:

  • To get all four wheels moving in the same direction
  • To get all four tires to connect with the road at the proper angle

This ensures your vehicle’s safety, and also increases longevity of every working system on your vehicle. 

Battery – so you never are stranded by the side of the road

Has your battery ever died in an inconvenient place? Some would say there’s never a convenient place for a battery to die, but if you’ve ever been stranded in the dark with few people around, you understand what inconvenience can really be. 

Your car can’t start without a battery. It controls the ignition process and keeps your vehicle running as you make your way out into the day. 

It also controls many of the accessories you rely on each day. Imagine a cold day without heated seats. Or a drive to work without the radio. 

Batteries are only designed to last two to three years. To avoid having them break down at an inconvenient time, a battery check can tell you how much life is left in your battery. It can give you a good indication of when you should replace your battery to avoid the inconvenience of having it go out when you least expect it. 

Are you ready for car safety services before the weather changes?

When working with a reputable service provider, you know you’ll receive honest feedback on all the various systems on your vehicle. Bringing it in for a car safety check means you’ll have a better understanding of how everything is working. 

It allows you to get a better feel for what services you should take care of right away, and which services you can budget for at some point in the future. 

Brakes Service

Oil Change

Suspension

Transmision Service

Engine Service

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