Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs of Brake Problems

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Imagine heading up into the mountains for a day of skiing. You drive deeper into the hills, closer to your destination on snow-packed roads. Suddenly, as you tap your brakes, it feels a bit squishy. Almost as if the brakes aren’t there. You tap again. Something’s not right. 

Will you be able to bring your car to a stop?

Will you trust your brakes on the ride home?  

That’s the last thing you want to have happen on your fun-filled day trip. Luckily, a little TLC and regular maintenance can prevent that from happening. 

Your brakes won’t fail without advanced warning. Your brakes will give you ample notice to bring your vehicle in for servicing long before it creates a problem. 

What should you watch for? 

Squealing or grinding noise

One of the most common indicators of brake problems starts when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. If you hear a high-pitched squeal, this could indicate wear on the brake pad. Brake pads are made with a steel indicator band to let you know they’re reaching end-of-life. This metal band connects with the rotor as you apply pressure, and the metal-on-metal creates a distinctive sound. If you keep driving once you notice this sound, the metal will wear into the rotor, causing additional problems that will be even more costly to fix. 

A grinding noise could indicate different things. Are your brakes fairly new? The grinding sound could be something like gravel stuck in the brake calipers. Or if the brake pads have worn down to the metal indicator bar, it could be the metal-on-metal sound. 

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs of Brake Problems

Vibration when braking

As you drive, you grow accustomed to the way your car handles. If you notice a change in performance, pay attention to what is occurring. This can help a mechanic get to the heart of the problem. 

If your steering wheel or vehicle shakes or vibrates when you apply pressure to the brake pedal, it might be an indicator of a problem with the brake rotor. The brake rotor is a large disc that sits just inside the wheel. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the brake pad presses against the brake rotor to bring the car safely to a stop. 

Over time, the rotor surface can change. Material from the pad can cause divots and uneven wear marks. If the brake pads wear down to the metal bar, that can also cause irregular wear marks on the rotor. This unevenness affects the stopping power when you press down on the brake pedal. Brake servicing can fix uneven brake rotors, smoothing down the surface, providing it’s not too worn to fix. If the divots and worn marks are too severe, you’ll have to replace the brake rotors. 

Leaking fluid

Like other systems in your vehicle, the brake system uses brake fluid for proper performance. When you apply the brakes, the system uses brake fluid to create hydraulic pressure against the brake caliper. If the braking system is low on brake fluid, the pressure won’t be there to control your vehicle. 

If you experience a soft brake pedal, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. They can check to ensure brake fluid isn’t leaking from the master cylinder or elsewhere in the brake system. 

You can also check your owner’s manual for guidelines on how often brake fluid should be checked and serviced. While it doesn’t need replacing like motor oil, fluid can be compromised over time. 

Spongy brake pedal

When we drive, almost every aspect becomes automatic, second nature, because the car behaves in a certain way. When you notice differences, it’s time to take action. 

A brake pedal provides certain resistance as you push down, and hydraulics kick into action. If the brakes feel softer as you press it further to the floor, it’s time for immediate service. It’s an indicator of moisture or air in the braking system, or a problem with the master cylinder. 

Car pulling to one side  

A vehicle contains four wheels, four brake pads, and four calipers. In a perfect world, all four would wear similarly. However, that’s rarely the case. If one caliper wears differently, or a brake hose goes bad, it can cause more pressure on one wheel. You’ll notice that in your car’s behavior. 

With more pressure on one side, the stopping power will be uneven. You’ll notice the car pulling to one side or the other. This will only get more pronounced if left unchecked. 

Burning smell 

A sharp burning smell after continually using your brakes is an indicator of overheating brakes. Pull over and give your brakes a chance to cool down. You can also further assess the situation. 

Check the parking brake. Is it fully released? 

If you see smoke coming from one of the wheel wells, it could be a sign of a stuck brake caliper. If it’s stuck in place, your vehicle is no longer safe to drive. You may have to tow it in for repair. 

Brake light turns on

One of the good things today’s cars offer is technological advancements that can alert you to potential problems. Your dashboard panel has a variety of lights and indicators to help you decide when to service your car. When you see the brake light illuminate, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. 

In some cases, a brake light can be an indicator that your parking brake is on. Check to see if the parking brake is engaged. With that fully released, it’s time to schedule a maintenance visit if the brake light is still on. 

Do you have brake problems? 

Your brake system is one of your vehicle’s most important systems. Without brakes, you put yourself and those around you at risk. 

Think you may have brake problems? Make an appointment today. We’ll get you safely back on the road.   

How Engine Knocking Impacts Your Vehicle

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When you start your car each morning, you may have your mind on many things. Taking the kids to school. The meeting you have after lunch. The book club you enjoy once a month. 

But then you hear a strange noise from underneath the hood of your vehicle. What’s that knocking noise? Should you drive your car? Should you call in a tow truck and start rescheduling your day? 

How an engine works

Our modern-day engines work in a four-movement process: intake, compression, power, exhaust. 

First, air and fuel move into the engine compartment and start the process. Combustion starts as the spark plug and ignition create enough pressure at maximum efficiency. A mixture of fuel/air burns, causing gasses to expand and push pistons downwards rapidly. Pressure rises to peak, until the exhaust valve opens and the piston retracts to eliminate the burned gas. 

This process can work perfectly over and over again. Until one day, something goes wrong. 

What causes engine knocking

There are a handful of causes for engine knocking. The most common include:

How Engine Knocking Impacts Your Vehicle

Wrong fuel type

Your car’s engine was designed to operate with a specific octane level. If you hear the engine knocking as you accelerate, it’s most likely caused by having the wrong fuel, specifically with a lower octane level than as designed. 

You may have refueled with the wrong gas type. Or the gas station had bad fuel in the tanks. Either way, you have fuel with a low octane in your fuel tank, causing premature combustion. This will cause the engine to knock. 

If the issue occurs suddenly after refilling, you can fix the problem on your next refueling. Or you could try using an octane booster to raise the octane level up again. 

Bad knock sensor

Your vehicle has many sensors throughout to keep the various systems in check. A knock sensor is designed to prevent engine knock. 

An engine strives for maximum performance. The control system pushes for advanced ignition to reach for better performance. If the octane level of the fuel source doesn’t meet expectations, the engine will require a slower ignition process to operate without engine knock. The knock sensor’s job is to monitor for any knocks, and if one occurs, to slow down the ignition process to prevent engine damage. 

If the knock sensor goes bad, this control process is no longer in place. This means it could be sending false signals to the engine control, creating an ignition process out of correct timing. Either way, it can cause damage to various components inside the engine. 

Incorrect engine timing

Depending on the age of your vehicle, a faulty ignition timing could cause engine knock on an older vehicle. 

Newer cars control the ignition timing electronically, so the process is controlled by a sensor, and you won’t be able to adjust the timing. 

On an older car, you may have an adjustable ignition timing on either the distributor, an adjustable cam, or crankshaft position sensor. An ignition timing light is used to check the timing. Your owner’s manual will have more information on setting the timing properly. Of course, it’s something you can bring your vehicle in for, and we’ll ensure it’s working optimally. 

Lean fuel/air mixture

The fuel/air mixture circulates through various components inside the engine compartment. It heats up in the engine while cooling down in the combustion chamber. If the fuel/air mixture is too lean, it loses its cooling capabilities and will cause the combustion chamber to overheat.

This heat can cause the fuel/air mixture to ignite prematurely before the spark plug delivers a spark. This can cause the engine to knock. This is dangerous for the engine because of how it delivers heat. It can be hazardous for many components, even causing the pistons to melt down over time. 

Incorrect spark plugs

While not common, occasionally, the wrong spark plugs may be installed. If they aren’t functioning correctly, they won’t produce the spark necessary at the right time. 

If you’ve recently changed your spark plugs and notice engine knock, a quick check will ensure you have installed the correct spark plugs. 

Other problems 

If you only hear a knocking sound when accelerating, chances are it’s engine knock. If you consistently hear the noise at other times, it may be something else.  

This is when you should bring your vehicle in for a complete inspection, as the problem may stem from timing belt issues, bad rod bearings, or a faulty fuel injector. 

How to fix engine knock

The good news is engine knock is fairly easy to fix. 

The first step is to determine when the engine knock started. If it was after your last fill-up, it’s most likely from filling up your tank with gasoline. To fix it, you can try an octane booster, or replace the fuel currently in the system.

You can also check the spark plugs if they were recently changed. While not a common reason for engine knock, it does occasionally happen. Be sure the spark plugs installed are specifically designed for your make and model. 

If you have an older car with an adjustable ignition timing, check the timing and adjust it as needed. You can check your owner’s manual to find out if you have this system in place. 

If you just aren’t sure or prefer to get a professional’s take on what’s happening with your car, bringing it in for an inspection can help get to the root of the problem. A diagnostic scanner can pinpoint where the problem lies, providing trouble codes to help you determine what to fix. A professional will have the right tools for the job, and be able to fix the problem and get you back on the road quickly. 

Have you experienced engine knock?

The best way to ensure your vehicle stays operating well is to provide the necessary fluids and components for each system. 

Fill your tank from a reputable source. 

Ensure spark plugs fit your make and model. 

And when you hear any noise out of the ordinary, the quicker you bring it in for inspection, the better chance you have of stopping the problem before it escalates. 

How can we help you keep your car’s engine healthy? 

And The Most Important Car Maintenance Items Are …

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As summer turns into fall, we pull out our favorite sweaters and watch as pumpkin flavors just about everything. While you might be finishing up home maintenance projects before winter weather sets in, don’t forget about your vehicle too. 

The most important car maintenance items are the ones that keep your car in tip-top shape, no matter what it faces while out on the road. The Car Care Council recommends that everyone follow the ABCs of basic car care, which includes:

  • A – Always follow a vehicle service schedule 
  • B – Be sure to have your car inspected when you suspect you have a problem
  • C – Correct the problem to help avoid the inconvenience and potential safety hazards of breaking down

These are good rules to follow. 

The Car Care Council also found that a random check on cars on the roadway today would see a significant number of them have:

  • Low or dirty engine oil
  • Insufficient or contaminated brake fluid
  • Dirty air filters
  • Low coolant levels
  • Bad windshield wipers
  • Low washer fluid
  • Damaged or worn-down belts

In fact, close to 90 percent of all vehicles on the road today require at least one repair. 

And The Most Important Car Maintenance Items Are …

How would your vehicle rank in this study?

Where to start – let’s fix the most important car maintenance items now

The best place to start is with what you know. Right now, if you take a close look at your car, you can probably find several issues you’ve been ignoring. When was the last time you washed your vehicle? How about changing the oil? Have your tires been rotated and balanced? 

If you’re scratching your head, trying to remember the last time those items were completed, it’s time. 

Car fluids

Most drivers know just how crucial motor oil is to keep the engine healthy. It’s the one maintenance item preached enough that most drivers follow the rules. Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, have the motor oil replaced with a high-quality oil. Your owner’s manual will tell you what your engine needs; stick with their recommendations and never cut corners. Your engine was designed with a specific motor oil in mind. 

Yet motor oil isn’t the only fluid your car uses. Coolant protects the various parts inside the engine compartment from corrosion. Brake fluid helps keep the brake system fluid and in motion. Transmission fluid ensures the gears are well lubricated. Power steering fluid ensures the steering wheel remains easy to turn. 

While motor oil should be changed every few thousand miles, some fluids can last tens of thousands of miles and still run strong. A quick inspection ensures the systems haven’t been compromised, putting your vehicle at risk of damage. If any lights pop on the dashboard indicating low fluids, top them off as soon as possible. 

Checking your battery

The battery is responsible for many things in your car, including the ignition. Batteries often die when you least expect it, such as when it’s been sitting in extreme cold or heat for a few hours. It can leave you stranded in a difficult situation. 

Car batteries generally have a two to three-year shelf life. As your battery nears end-of-life, inspect it regularly to ensure it’s working correctly. We’re happy to test it at the same time you bring it in for an oil change. 

A voltmeter or a power probe will determine how much voltage is left in the battery. If it’s between 12.4 to 12.7 volts, it’s still in good operating condition. A little lower, and you can monitor it, trickle charging it to see if you can get it back up to working condition.  

This impacts your car’s accessories too. Have you noticed your lights seem a bit duller? Or your heated seats aren’t quite as hot? It’s a sign of a weak battery. Deciding to replace it before it leaves you stranded is always a good option. 

Checking your tires

Tires are the one piece of equipment that maintains contact with the road every time you drive it. If they aren’t in top shape, they risk impacting every other system in your car. 

The most common check is proper inflation. Newer cars have sensors that will alert you when inflation exceeds or falls short of the recommended levels for your make and model. You should also check it regularly, every other time you stop to fill up your car with fuel. Under or overinflation can be impacted by driving conditions or the environment; slight changes may not be a sign of a problem. But if you continually have inflation issues, it’s something to get checked out with one of our mechanics. 

Wheel balancing and tire rotation should also be a part of your regular maintenance schedule. Rotating the tires frequently allows each of your tires to get maximum wear. Balancing them ensures they connect with the road properly as you drive each day. 

Depending on which make and model of tire you select, you can expect up to 50,000 miles of wear. This is suggested; it depends on your driving conditions. You should still monitor the tread yourself periodically. Walk around and inspect the tread across all four tires. Does it look even? Do you notice wear marks? 

Tires have indicator bars built into the tread grooves. If they become level with the adjacent ribs, it’s time for replacing. You can also use a penny as an indicator. Place a penny with Lincoln’s face upside down and facing you. If his entire head is visible, it’s time for a new set of tires. 

Need to know more about the most important car maintenance items?

If you have questions, we have answers. 

Today’s vehicles are sophisticated pieces of machinery. Whether you’re looking for a routine oil change, or have complicated questions about the behavior of your car, we’re here to answer them, find the problem, fix your vehicle and bring it back to optimal condition. 

How can we help you keep your car safely on the road? 

Tired Of Low Fuel Efficiency While Towing?

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Ah, the joys of summer. You’ve bought all the toys, and love heading into the mountains for a weekend of fun. But towing trailers, boats, and other utility items can take its toll on fuel efficiency. 

You’ve experienced low fuel efficiency repeatedly while towing. What can you do? 

With gas prices inching ever upward, fuel efficiency is something you think about more than ever. If it’s making you think twice about taking a few days away from city life, there are a few things you can do. 

Understanding fuel economy

When you think about fuel economy, it comes down to understanding what pushes your vehicle to move harder. The more pressure it has while moving itself and what you’re towing, the more fuel it will use. 

If your goal is to improve fuel economy while towing, you need to take action where it makes the biggest difference. 

The biggest factor is weight. It takes more energy to accelerate and decelerate every time you start, stop, or move the combined vehicle up the road. This is where it pays to take a second look at the items you are bringing. Are there things that rarely get used? Are there things you can lighten up? 

The second biggest impactor is aerodynamics. This is how the wind is affected as the combined vehicle/trailer moves through the air. If you change the way your vehicle is shaped, it can have an impact on efficiency. 

Of course, more minor issues can impact overall efficiency too. 

Tired Of Low Fuel Efficiency While Towing?

Tires – are tires on the vehicle and trailer in good working condition? Proper inflation and tire pressure helps keep the vehicle properly connected to the road. 

Brakes – if a brake drags while you’re driving, it adds resistance to the drive, and reduces fuel efficiency. 

Trailer stability – no matter how well your vehicle is maintained, if the item you are towing is wobbly and not fully operational, it will impact your drive, and ultimately, your efficiency. 

What can you do to increase fuel efficiency while towing?

Before you head out on the open road for time away from the normal routine, spending a few minutes thinking about efficiency can make all the difference. The best place to start is with the things you can control.

Vehicle weight – what you’re carrying takes up space. The heavier your combined vehicle is, the more energy it will take to get it where you’re going. Weight affects energy. So to improve fuel economy, if you take only what you need, there will be less to tow. Are there ways to condense the items you’re bringing? That means less pressure every time you start and stop. 

Aerodynamics – this is where engineering comes into play. Have you noticed how semi-trucks are changing? They create more aerodynamics to make the driving process more efficient. You can do the same with the load you are carrying. You can do this by the size of the load you’re carrying, as well as by focusing on the amount of drag you have on the load. Do you have luggage racks, bicycles, and other personal items attached to the vehicle in various places? Do you have streamlined lines, or is it more random? There is a lot of turbulence around the trailer as you drive. If you can make the structure more aerodynamic, you’ll notice a difference in the fuel usage. 

Plan your route – when you have a big load, the shortest distance between two points isn’t necessarily the best route. Instead, focus on the drive itself. Can you avoid high-traffic zones, where you’ll idle and waste fuel? Can you avoid high wind areas where you’ll increase resistance throughout the drive, possibly putting your vehicle in harm’s way? Not every obstruction is avoidable. But with a little foresight, sometimes you can find better ways to arrive at your final destination. 

Slow down – just because a speed limit is posted doesn’t mean you have to abide by it. Most American vehicles reach peak efficiency somewhere between 50 and 60 miles. Pushing your vehicle faster will make you lose efficiency the faster you drive. Yes, you might not arrive at your final destination quite as fast as anticipated. This might give you an opportunity to stop sooner in more unique places. Where else can you stop along your route? 

Keep up with maintenance – this includes your vehicle and what you tow. Letting even one thing slide can impact the drivability of your vehicle, which in turn affects your fuel economy. This includes the obvious things like changing your oil and fixing any mechanical parts that may need replacing. Pay attention to the tires, and replace them early before you risk damage while on the road. This can be especially true if you haven’t had your trailer on the road in months. Ensure everything is in good working condition, well-lubricated, and firmly attached to your vehicles for lower wind resistance.  

Drive less – planning is everything, both before and during your trip. Combine errands whenever possible. Think twice about driving longer distances – is there someplace closer you can go? Instead of heading out several weekends to different parts of the surrounding area, what if you combined it into one long vacation? Not only is this a fuel efficient thing to do, but it also helps you relax more without the added stress of longer drive times and less stress. 

Towing doesn’t have to ruin fuel efficiency

In fact, if you pay attention to the tips above, you might be surprised at how more efficient you make your vehicle, and how much more you enjoy your time away. 

Towing a vehicle is never easy. But with a little forethought, you can improve the efficiency with and without the trailer too. 

Wherever you’re going, whatever the driving conditions, you’ll see your mileage increase with just a few simple tips. And that’s more money you can take with you and enjoy on your vacations away from everything. 

Car Maintenance Tips Before You Sell Your Car

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You’ve had your eye on a new car for a while now. And now that you’ve finalized the purchase, it’s time to think about selling your old car. 

Of course, you can trade it in. It’s fast and convenient. But you’ll get fewer dollars, and you know your car is worth a lot more. 

Why not sell it yourself? Yet before you list it for sale, we have a few car maintenance tips for you to follow to ensure you get top dollar. 

Why car maintenance is important before you sell your car

People sell cars for all kinds of reasons:

  • High mileage
  • Want the latest tech gadgets and features
  • Need another car in the family
  • Want better safety features 
  • Tired of making repairs

For whatever reason you’re purchasing a new car, the buyer who settles on your car will have similar motivations. 

You may be tired of your car, but to the purchaser, your vehicle will be new to them. Which means they will be looking at it through the eyes of a new car owner. 

They want a reliable car. They want one that will serve them well in the months to come. 

And if glaring car maintenance items are visible while they are considering a purchase, they will be reasons to turn away from your vehicle. 

If you want to sell your car quickly, a little car maintenance first will allow you to present it in its best light. 

How to prepare your car to sell

Start by taking a good look at your car, inside and out. Look at it through the eyes of a buyer. What would you be looking for if you were purchasing this car? 

Car Maintenance Tips Before You Sell Your Car

This is the time for a bit of detail work. Remove everything from the inside. Don’t forget to look underneath the seats, in the glove box, and in any middle compartments between the seats. 

Vacuum out the crumbs and dust bunnies. You can spot clean seats if you can easily remove stains and other marks. 

Take a minute to wash the windows inside, removing any film. This will leave them sparkling and easy to see out of. 

They pay equal attention to the outside of the car. A thorough washing means ensuring tires and wheels are clean, and headlamps and tail lights shine. 

As you move through your car front to back, note any noticeable repairs. While you might not want to put more money into the vehicle, a potential buyer will notice it too. It’ll impact the asking price, and how many offers you receive for purchase.  

Some of the top car maintenance items you should focus on to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition include:

Oil change

Before you place a “for sale” sign in your car’s window, bring it in for an oil change first. Save the receipt, which can be a bonus for the new owner. They will appreciate that it’s one less maintenance item they’ll have to perform as they drive it for the first few weeks, and it’s a relatively inexpensive way to show potential buyers that you’ve cared for your vehicle as long as you’ve owned it. Have a logbook of previous oil changes? All the better. It’s a great sign of caring for your vehicle. 

Tires 

Tires are one of the most visible parts. Tires are also one of the easiest to spot check, noticing if they aren’t in good shape. If you notice bald spots and uneven wear marks, your potential buyer will too. While the thought of purchasing new tires may seem counterintuitive, it will be reflected in how much you can price your vehicle at, as well as how easy it will be to sell. 

Accessories

While safety is key to driving any vehicle, it’s often the little details that sell a car. That’s why people often turn to “color” as the deciding factor. Accessories are no different. When a potential buyer slides behind the wheel, they naturally tend to turn up the radio and push a few buttons, tap the power windows and watch them go up and down, and even flip the windshield wipers on to ensure they work. If you’ve put off fixing little problems that have been more of an annoyance than about vehicle safety, now is the time to get the items fixed. 

Lights

Turn your lights on and notice how bright or dim they are. Tap on the brake pedal and ensure your tail lights are working. How about the turn signals? Do the lights blink on and off? These safety items are easy to check and even easier to fix. You can do it with just a few lightbulbs. Have a few extras? Tuck them into the glove compartment. Simple little “extras” can go a long way in the mind of a buyer. 

Brakes

Worn brake pads are never a good idea, especially if you’re trying to sell a car. When you tap on the brake pedal, do the brakes let out a high-pitched screech? That’s a sign your car needs new brake pads. You can’t hide the sound. It only gets worse over time. If you hear it now and you plan on selling your car in the future, get the brake pads replaced sooner rather than later. 

Consider a pre-sale inspection

Any time you purchase a used vehicle, it can be a bit unnerving to wonder about the quality of the car. Will there be hidden issues that only materialize after the sale is completed? 

One way to give a new buyer more assurance is to perform a pre-sale inspection. Instead of waiting for a potential buyer to ask about having a mechanic check out the car, take the initiative and do it yourself. 

This allows a qualified mechanic to inspect the vehicle and provide notes as to what may potentially need replacing in the near future. 

This gives you a chance to make the repairs first, and present the receipts to the buyer for added assurance. 

Planning on selling a car soon?

Before you stick the “for sale” sign in the window, using these car maintenance tips as a checklist will ensure your car looks and runs its best before the first potential buyer takes a look. 

How can we help you get your used car ready for sale?

High Temperatures Affect Car Performance – Here’s What You Should Do

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The temperatures continue to rise. You know how it impacts your body – you’re more tired, sluggish, and need more hydration to thrive. 

Your car performs in much the same way. Heat is a residual form of energy created as your vehicle operates. Too much heat can affect car and truck performance. 

While vehicles are designed to dissipate heat energy, environmental heat can have a negative impact on the engine, radiator, air conditioner, tires, and other components. Certain parts are more susceptible to heat. With a little knowledge, you can watch for problems early, and prevent damage before it occurs.

How high temperatures affect car performance

A vehicle is filled with parts that all take on a lot of heat as they perform. It’s built to withstand intense heat. That said, the components can only take so much. When a car moves beyond what it can take, that’s when parts start to break down. Performance is impacted, and that’s where damage can quickly occur. What may start out as a small problem with a part can quickly escalate to full-blown engine damage. 

Cars regulate using a mixture of fuel and air. Too much or too little of either can be a big problem. It’s up to the engine control unit to monitor the amount and quality of the air coming in and adjust the fuel accordingly.  

High Temperatures Affect Car Performance - Here’s What You Should Do

Where it changes is in extreme temperatures. Cold air is denser than hot air. In the summer, that means it brings in less concentrated levels of oxygen, which can cause the engine to lose horsepower as it makes up the difference. 

All of this can severely affect the performance of your vehicle. 

Warm air also holds more water, which further overrides the oxygen. To prevent too much fuel from entering into the system, less fuel is sent into the combustion chamber, and the engine control unit adjusts the timing.  

What components are impacted the most?

When the summer months bring high temperatures for days – weeks on end, you may notice your car doesn’t act like it does when days are cooler. While it impacts overall performance, you may also notice problems with particular components. These can include:

Motor oil

Motor oil is used to keep every part in the engine block running well and thoroughly lubricated. One of the most common effects of higher temperatures is on the viscosity of the motor oil. 

When temperatures climb, it causes motor oil to reduce viscosity, thinning down. Excess heat from the car’s combustion process and the emissions around the environment can also reduce viscosity. This reduction can cause an increase in friction, which adds even more heat to the process. 

One of the best times to get an oil change is early in the summer months as the temperatures start to climb. You can move to a more viscous alternative, and ensure the oil tank is topped off for best results all summer long. 

Tires

There’s a reason you see blown tire residuals frequently on the highway on a hot summer day. Tires deal with heat expansion on a hot summer day. As they heat, they expand, which in turn increases the tire pressure. 

For cars or trucks that have ever-changing loads, especially when pulling RVs, trailers, etc, the tire can bulge to the point of a blowout. This can lead to losing control of the vehicle, car damage, and severe injury. 

Before you head out on the open road, check your tire pressure to ensure it’s within the guideline established by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Check it frequently on your drive. 

Batteries

We’re all aware that batteries have a hard time cranking over on the coldest days of the year, but did you know the same is true on the hottest days? Extreme heat can affect batteries by stopping the ionic reaction inside the battery. This means the battery no longer has the proper levels of crank power to turn the engine over as you’re attempting to start it up. It may be from trying to run too many accessories at once, such as fans and air conditioners. It could also be a permanent loss of power, meaning you’ll need to replace the car battery. 

Prepare for summertime heat by having the battery tested and checked at the beginning of the season. This will give you a rough idea of how much life is left in the battery, and when you can expect to replace it. If your car battery is old, this gives you a chance to fix it on your terms, rather than face the consequences out on the open road. 

Cooling systems

People often confuse a car’s cooling system with the air conditioner. They are, in fact, two separate systems. 

The cooling system maintains the temperature of the engine, while the air conditioner keeps the passenger cabin of the car comfortable for the occupants. 

To keep the car’s engine compartment running well, it depends on coolant flowing through the system to keep parts operating and in good working condition. Extreme temperatures can slow or stop the process, allowing the engine to overheat, and components to stall or fail. 

Overheating often occurs with slow driving conditions, since the air flowing in isn’t strong enough to keep the internal environment cooled. To prevent overheating, ensure coolant is in good working condition, and the reservoir is topped off with high quality fluids. 

How your car acts when performance is at stake

Chances are if your car is experiencing problems from high temperatures, you’ll notice it in the performance. You may experience:

  • Loud noises coming from the exhaust system
  • Difficulty accelerating 
  • Unable to start the car
  • A reduction in fuel efficiency
  • A burning smell from the exhaust pipe

If you think you might have performance issues caused by high temperatures, your best course of action is to schedule an inspection, and get to the root cause before more damage occurs. 

Are summertime temperatures keeping your car from performing well? 

Help! I Mixed Antifreeze. Now What?

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Antifreeze is also known as engine coolant. It’s a colored liquid that is mixed with water and added to your car’s engine to help regulate the temperature under extreme heat. As the temperature outside changes between hot and cold, antifreeze is pumped throughout the engine block to help maintain an even temperature. 

Antifreeze does more than regular temperature. It’s also designed to keep the engine block safe and operating well. By maintaining it properly, you’ll prevent corrosion from occurring within the system itself. 

Yet don’t be fooled into thinking antifreeze is antifreeze. Pick up a bottle and they all are the same. There are different types of antifreeze, and mixing them could be dangerous for your car. 

Have you mixed antifreeze? Now what? There are a few things to know if you’ve grabbed the wrong bottle and filled up the reserve with the wrong substance. 

How antifreeze works

Some substances, like motor oil, can be added directly into the reservoir as is. Antifreeze needs to be mixed with water, usually in a 50/50 ratio, before being added to the reservoir inside the engine. 

Antifreeze is made up of a base chemical called ethylene glycol. It has a much lower freezing point than water. When the antifreeze mixture is added into the engine block, it is pumped around the engine by the water pump. As it passes through hot components of the engine, it absorbs the heat as the liquid is transferred into the radiator. The temperature of the antifreeze is then cooled by the cold air supply that rushes through the radiator as the car drives along. If it has trouble keeping up, an internal fan turns on to control the air movement. After passing through the radiator, antifreeze moves back into the engine where the process begins once again. 

Help! I Mixed Antifreeze. Now What?
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Types of antifreeze

There are two major types of antifreeze. One is a green coolant, the other is an orange color. You can find less common types that may be blue, pink, or gold. To ensure you add what’s best for your car’s engine, ready your owner’s manual and follow manufacturer’s guidelines. The easiest way to identify your car’s antifreeze is by color. Yet checking with specifications ensures you purchase what’s best for your vehicle. 

Green antifreeze uses an inorganic additive technology, also known as IAT. Phosphates and silicates are mixed in with the ethylene glycol to help protect the metals that exist within the vehicle’s cooling system from being corroded. 

Orange antifreeze uses an organic acid technology, or OAT. They are created for today’s newer models that have more nylon and aluminum parts in them.  The organic acids are designed to prevent corrosion. OAT antifreeze promises full cooling coverage up to 150,000 miles or so, but it doesn’t consistently deliver. It’s best to keep an eye on it and have it inspected from time to time to ensure it’s operating well. 

While less common, other colors of antifreeze such as blue, pink, or gold exist and deliver cooling qualities to other types of cars and trucks. The difference is in the additives they use within the antifreeze mixture itself. 

Antifreeze is antifreeze … Or is it?

If you search online, you’ll find people on both sides of the issue. Some say you can mix antifreeze without an issue. Others tell you it’s a big problem. Which is true?

Mixing antifreeze is a bad idea and can cause serious damage to the engine block. What can happen depends on what types you mix together, as each mixture provides different qualities to your vehicle. If the chemical composition is the same but the brand is different, no harm will come to your vehicle. 

The most common mixup is with the green and orange antifreeze. When green and orange mix, they form a thick coagulant that gums up and sticks inside the system. The damage can happen swiftly. It shortens the lifespan of the coolant and starts impacting the engine block almost immediately. If it continues to operate, it risks damaging the entire cooling system. It can cause problems with the radiator, water jackets, heater core, and in severe cases, the head gasket. 

How often does a car need new antifreeze?

Antifreeze isn’t a fluid you add and change out frequently, like you do motor oil. It’s a good idea to have antifreeze levels checked periodically. You can do so at the start of summer and winter, when antifreeze will be put under more extreme stress. You can also do so if you’re heading out for a road trip, to ensure everything in your vehicle is working well. 

Your car’s owner manual will provide precise information on when and where to have antifreeze levels checked and changed. 

It’s usually when you’re on a road trip or outside of your normal routine where you might be tempted to use whatever you can find. If your car is overheating and you’re tempted to add more antifreeze, before risking adding the wrong liquid, you can add distilled water instead. The most common composition of coolant is made from 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. A car will never run with 100 percent antifreeze. Adding water will reduce the freezing point, but it can get you safely to a mechanic where the entire system can be evaluated. 

A coolant flush 

Coolant flushes are necessary when you start noticing an issue with your vehicle’s function, status, and performance. You may notice you car is in need of a flush if it:

  • Overheats – this is a sign of excessive heat in the engine. The engine doesn’t have the proper heat balance that coolant provides. 
  • Ages – if you’ve been driving for more than five years without an issue, it may be time to check the condition of the coolant and flush it out to remove debris and other contaminants. 
  • Warning signals – the check engine light is a clear indicator that something is wrong internally. 

Mixed antifreeze is a problem

If you’ve accidentally mixed antifreeze types, your best course of action is to bring it in and assess the damage. A coolant flush can remove the current mixture and allow you to start fresh with a clean mixture recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. 

It allows your car to continue operating well. 

Have you ever mixed antifreeze before?

What It Costs If You Neglect Car Maintenance

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What are the most neglected car maintenance items? According to one survey, they include:

  • Wheels out of alignment
  • Skipping out on regular oil changes
  • Letting tires wear out and going bald
  • Missing the check engine light
  • Ignoring sluggish brakes that just don’t feel right

Of course, as busy people, we have our reasons:

  • We’re too busy to take the car in … maybe later
  • Money is a problem … waiting until next payday looks better
  • The repair isn’t that urgent … What’re a few more weeks going to do?
  • The repair will take how long … I can’t live without a car for that long!

Do you see yourself in any of the situations above? We’ve all been there a time or two. 

But waiting to fix a car maintenance item is never good for your vehicle. It turns a simple, inexpensive issue into a full-blown problem. What started out as low-key – scheduling an oil change – turns into an expensive endeavor – a blown head gasket. 

If you thought an oil change was expensive, wait until you deal with a head gasket replacement. 

Oil changes, by far, are the most neglected car maintenance item for car owners. A few thousand miles can slip by quickly when you’re busy and have a lot on your plate. Manufacturers give a window of several thousand miles for scheduling an oil change, and many people press the limits. 

Yet neglecting an oil change can increase buildup and friction within the engine compartment. Over time, that wastes gasoline, decreases fuel efficiency, and risks blockage deep in the system. When that happens, friction builds, heat accumulates, and various engine components break down. 

What It Costs If You Neglect Car Maintenance

You may think you’re saving money by pushing the timeframe between oil changes, but what you’re really doing is increasing the likelihood of a bigger problem down the road. 

Ignoring car maintenance comes at a price. Let’s look at the costs of not taking care of your vehicle:

It impacts the life of your vehicle

Today’s vehicles are made up of more than 10,000 components, all acting together to create an efficient machine that gets you to where you’re going. Fluids, filters, belts, hoses, parts, systems, and individual components all will wear down over time. Some need replacing frequently. Others may last the life of your vehicle. Yet each part is dependent on the quality of another. If one isn’t feeding the systems correctly, it puts added stress onto that part. 

The standard vehicle today has an average life of about 12 years, and is expected to keep running up to 200,000 miles. On average, a car will start costing you more money the older it gets and the more mileage you put on. One of the ways to counter that is through regular inspections, ensuring individual parts are in good working condition before they have a chance to impact others within the system. 

It increases the cost of future repairs

Studies consistently show that cars on the road today operate with 

  • Low or dirty engine oil
  • Low or contaminated brake fluid
  • Dirty air filters
  • Low coolant
  • Old windshield wipers and low washer fluid
  • Old  

These basic items might not seem like a big deal, but simple, low cost items can quickly add up. 

Oil changes – if you go months without changing the oil, you may end up by the side of the road, having to tow your vehicle in because it no longer runs. Upon further inspection, the mechanic discovers the engine has seized. Your options are replacing the engine, or buying a new car. That’s a big deal considering today’s average new car price is $47,148. Compare that to an oil change every 5,000 miles or so at a fraction of the cost. 

Brake maintenance – brake pads have a built in mechanism to warn you of potential problems. When they start squealing, it’s an indicator that the brake pad is nearing its end-life, and needs changing soon. If you ignore the problem, the metal from the brake pad wears into the metal of the brake rotor. It continues to burn through the rotor and down into the ventilating fins. Instead of a simple brake pad replacement, you’ll be looking at thousands of dollars to fix multiple problems within the brake system. 

Belts and hoses – these components can last a long time. But when they do start wearing out, you’ll hear squealing noises indicating a potential problem. If belts don’t have proper tension, it’s like having no belt at all. Many cars operate with a single serpentine belt. If it quits working correctly, it impacts the water pump, which quits circulating coolant throughout the engine, which stops the alternator, shuts down power steering, and shuts down your air conditioner. Fixing the belt is easy and a fairly straightforward process, depending on your vehicle. Replacing multiple systems is a costly experience that can quickly run into thousands of dollars. Timing belts can also be expensive if they slip or break, sending a piston into an open valve. If this happens, it can cause the engine to self-destruct. The cost of a timing belt is far less than dealing with a non-operational vehicle that needs a new engine. 

Fluids and filters – these are simple routine maintenance items that are often spotted during regular inspections. When you schedule visits with a mechanic you can trust, they will help you keep your car in good physical condition, replacing parts and filling up fluids before further damage can be done.  

It reduces risk 

If you’ve ever been stranded on the side of the road, you understand risk. 

Where were you heading? You might be late for a meeting at work. You might miss a flight if you were heading to the airport. 

Now what? You may be facing towing expenses. You may have to deal with a mechanic who doesn’t have your best interests at heart. 

Nobody likes facing repair bills. But neglecting car maintenance items only puts off the inevitable. 

If you’ve been neglecting scheduling a visit, wait no more. 

Call us today, and we’ll inspect your vehicle. We’ll help you make the best decisions for the future of your vehicle. And help you bring it back to the best condition possible. 

Yes, The Type of Fuel You Put Into Your Car Matters

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When you pull up to fill your car up with gas, you usually have a choice of several types of fuel. You make a selection – regular, plus, premium – and let the fuel flow into your tank. You hop into your car and move on your way. 

But have you ever stopped to think about the type of fuel you use and what it does for your vehicle? Does fuel type matter? 

From the moment we buy a car, we put fuel into the tank without thinking much about it. You’re programmed to select a fuel grade, fill it up, and head out into your day. Yet most of us think little about it. What goes into the fuel before you put it into the tank?

Fuel is made up of chemicals designed to keep your car running smoothly. Of course, every fuel manufacturer interprets what that means in a different way. While your owner’s manual dictates the right type of fuel needed to keep your car operational, you might be wondering: What’s the difference? 

Gasoline is manufactured from crude oil. Crude oil undergoes a variety of refinery processes before it ends up at your local gas station. Additives include aromatic compounds, detergents, isoparaffins, and other additives required by the EPA.

Gasoline is typically sold by octane ratings. The theory states that higher octane should result in more power to the engine, while decreasing the likelihood of unburnt fuel running through the system and exiting the exhaust. 

Regular octane ratings start at 87 for regular, 88 to 90 for a mid-grade fuel, and 91 to 94 for premium. This rating helps manufacturers measure the ability to resist “knocking” during combustion. Under certain conditions, the fuel/air mixture can ignite early. This is called pre-ignition, and often makes a knocking sound similar to a percolator.

Yes, The Type of Fuel You Put Into Your Car Matters

 In other words, octane controls the ability of the fuel not to detonate early before it has a chance to mix with the air supply and spark as it ignites. Octane measures gasoline’s resistance to pre-ignition. Higher octane provides less likelihood of detonation. 

Why some cars need higher octane

Some cars are built with higher output. They use a higher compression rate to produce more power. They compress the fuel/air mixture more, creating excess heat. This can allow pre-ignition to occur. These cars need the higher octane fuel to ensure gasoline doesn’t ignite early. 

If you drive a car that requires premium gas, it will say so in the owner’s manual. It’s always a good idea to stick with the fuel source recommended by your car’s manufacturer. But it won’t kill your engine, or cause immediate damage if you fill up with a lower grade fuel. It can harm your engine over time, but occasionally filling up with a lower grade won’t damage it immediately. But it can speed up wear and tear. 

What fuel is recommended

When you first purchase a vehicle, getting to know your car is a good idea. The owner’s manual will recommend what type of fuel you should use in your car, what octane level your vehicle will operate best at. 

Regular fuel is recommended for engines that don’t have a high compression rate. It doesn’t rely on turbocharging to force air into the fuel/air mixture. The fuel/air ratio remains relatively stable throughout the engine consumption process, and a higher octane isn’t required to keep the mix from detonating prematurely. Regular fuel will contain additives and detergents to help clean and lubricate the engine, keeping it in good working condition without leaving deposits on the various engine parts. 

Premium fuel is recommended or required for engines with a high compression ratio, or come with a turbocharger. When the higher compression or turbocharge kicks in, it forces more air into the engine to help pull more energy from the detonation process. Without the higher octane fuel mixture, it can become unstable and prone to premature detonation. Premium fuel was created for stability as the fuel/air mixture changes with the uptick of air. Some manufacturers also provide more detergents and octane additives to ensure engines remain clean, lubricated, and offer you optimal performance. 

What about upgrading the type of fuel?

If premium gasoline improves the performance of vehicles that need it, what about other cars? It’s natural to assume that what is good for performance with one vehicle will help with others too. 

A non-turbocharged vehicle is designed to operate on regular fuel. When you fill up with regular fuel, the engine gets the recommended octane rating, ensuring the engine receives the proper fuel. If you put in premium instead, it will offer a higher octane. While this isn’t bad and won’t hurt the engine, it doesn’t offer any benefit. It will cost you because you’ll be paying more at the fueling station. 

Gas at high altitude 

Here in Denver, we drive at a higher elevation on a daily basis. Head up into the high country, and you add even more stress to your vehicle. 

Gas stations try to compensate for this in some cases by selling lower octane fuel. They deem that with thinner air, it lowers a car’s compression ratio, which in turn makes a lower octane fuel acceptable. While that may work for older cars, with newer fuel-injected engines, they detect the lower air levels and adjust accordingly. They expect the fuel as recommended, and make the necessary changes accordingly. 

As you drive here in Denver, stick with manufacturers’ guidelines and choose the level of octane recommended. Even if you take a road trip to lower altitudes, select the octane level closest to what is listed in your owner’s manual. 

What type of fuel does your car use?

What fuel your car runs on does matter. 

To keep your vehicle in good working condition, check to see what octane your car’s manufacturer recommends. Then select a high quality gasoline that feeds your car’s engine with high quality gasoline every time you fuel up. 

Your car will thank you for it down the road. 

A Guide To Regenerative Braking Systems

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Regenerative braking systems are included in most hybrid and electric cars. You’ll even find regenerative braking on some gas-powered vehicles. It converts the kinetic energy your car creates and turns it into electrical power. It’s more efficient than the process used by gas-powered vehicles. 

When you tap on the brake pedal, the kinetic energy of the car’s forward motion converts into heat as the brake pads connect with the rotors in a disc or drum. That heat dissipates into the air and away from the vehicle, instead of being used more efficiently. 

A regenerative braking system captures that heat and uses it for better efficiency. 

How a regenerative braking system works

Let’s dive a little deeper into how a regenerative braking system works. 

Traditional brakes on a gas or diesel-powered vehicle work through hydraulics. When you touch the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid moves brake calipers to connect brake pads with the rotors. This decreases the rotational spin of the wheel, gradually slowing it down until it comes to a stop. Drum brakes work a bit differently, but the overall principle is the same. 

With either drum or disc system, it involves transferring kinetic energy back into the environment. It takes the friction that causes heat within the braking system and moves it away from the vehicle. 

When you move to hybrid or electric motors, the braking system works a bit differently. As you press down on the brake pedal, the generator increases power, causing more resistance, slowing the vehicle until it stops. This process causes electrical current to flow back to the battery pack, where it continues to power the system. This is why regenerative braking works well in urban settings, because it continually recharges the system with stop-and-go traffic. Each stop at a traffic signal or in heavy traffic situations gives you an added boost when you accelerate again, which actually improves gas mileage and efficiency. 

A Guide To Regenerative Braking Systems

Regenerative braking extends battery life

Because kinetic energy builds as regenerative brakes are used, it helps keep the battery charged and ready to power the accessories used throughout the vehicle. For an electric vehicle, it can help preserve battery life, allowing your vehicle to travel further between power fill-ups. On all vehicles, it reduces wear and tear on the overall braking system, extending the life of the various brake parts. 

If you haven’t experienced regenerative brakes before, it takes a bit to get used to the feeling. The added friction can cause more slowing as you move your foot from the brake to the accelerator. Drivers often say it feels more like an on/off switch – now you have power, now you don’t. It makes it feel a bit jumpier during transitions, and takes a bit to get a feel for creating smooth transitions.  

In hybrids and newer systems, manufacturers are working to improve the feel of the transition. Some models only use one pedal for all movement. 

Brake checks and replacement are still required

One of the reasons people move towards newer technology is the idea of lowering the amount of maintenance required on the vehicle. 

Today’s electric technology requires little or no maintenance for the battery, motor, and other electronic parts. There are fewer fluids to check and refill, too, such as motor oil that needs replacing every 5,000 miles or so. 

With regenerative braking systems, the friction doesn’t wear on the components the way a traditional system does. It significantly reduces brake wear. 

That said, brakes are still a safety feature that needs to be checked from time to time. Reports show that brake rotors and pads can last 100,000 miles or more. 

Regenerative braking systems still use physical brakes. That means they mirror traditional brake construction, with rubber, fluids, and metal all being impacted over time. And that means they can suffer many problems found with conventional brakes, and still need maintenance over time. 

Electric vehicles might not use motor oil, but they still need brake fluid to function. And no matter how well cared for your vehicle is, brake fluid degrades over time. Especially if you’re not pumping the brakes at regular intervals. If you work from home more and your vehicle sits in the garage for days, it can impact brake’s health. 

Traditional brake maintenance revolved around worn out parts. Manufacturers had specific guidelines for replacing things like brake pads, rotors, and drums. They built safety features to warn you when things were wearing down to decrease the risks associated with brake failure. 

Because regenerative brakes utilize different energy for braking, the components might not wear down as fast. But it is important to pay attention to brake fluid replacement, changing it  based on mileage and timing. Even if you work from home and don’t take it on the road daily, fluid can still be compromised and degrade over time. 

That’s why many elective vehicles include frequent brake fluid check-ups and replacement, often once every two years.  

Another problem can be rust build-up, unless your car is specifically designed with carbon-ceramic brakes or other systems that are non-metallic. A little bit of surface rust won’t impact performance. But if it’s unchecked for too long, it can break through and cause more extensive problems. Detailing the brakes, especially after extended downtime, is a good idea to ensure they are working well and haven’t seized. 

Proper maintenance – the key to any vehicle’s long life

Whether you drive a gasoline, diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicle, ensuring a long life starts with proper maintenance. 

Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, regular inspections will allow the problem to be fixed early, meaning you’ll spend less time facing bigger issues down the road. 

Regenerative brakes are the future of the automotive industry. They work better, last longer, and provide your vehicle with added safety features. 

Yes, regenerative braking is more manageable in urban environments where they get a boost every time you use them. Just keep the process mild, without pouncing on the brakes to ensure the longest life possible. 

Do you have any experience with a regenerative braking system? 

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