Express Car Care of Denver

Maintenance Tips For Making Your Car Last Longer

May 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Today’s car prices are creeping higher and higher. A recent survey showed the average sticker price has exceeded $47,000.

Investing that much money in a vehicle is a significant hit to your wallet. It’s not something you want to do on a regular basis. Protecting your investment could make a difference between a well functioning car for 100,000 miles, or pushing it to 200,000 miles and beyond.

Maintenance tips to make your car last longer

To make your car last longer, it requires regular maintenance to keep it working well. It doesn’t take a lot of work. Just common sense items that ensure it’ll keep working its best for years to come.

Keep your car protected from the elements

Driving in Colorado can be tough on a vehicle. Winter brings sub-zero temperatures, ice and snow pelting the finish, and chemicals splashing up on the undercarriage from the messy streets. Summer brings intense heat, dust storms, and hail, pelting the finish.

In order for a car to continue to run well, it has to look good too. A dirty finish is an indicator of caked on dirt, grime, and chemicals. All of that can rapidly deteriorate a car’s frame and body, and impact many of the systems that keep you safe.

Maintenance Tips For Making Your Car Last Longer

Take the time to wash your car by hand. It keeps the paint intact and won’t scratch the finish. Wax the paint occasionally to ensure it stays protected from UV rays.

Don’t forget the inside. Clean it out regularly to keep the seats looking their best. If you install mats on the floorboards, it’s easier to keep them clean.

If possible, park in a garage. Parking indoors reduces exposure to harmful elements, and keeps your car looking and running better for the long run.

Follow a maintenance schedule

To stay healthy, you schedule regular checkups with doctors and dentists. You eat quality food. You avoid harmful scenarios.

Treat your car in a similar manner. Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, take action instead. If you haven’t thumbed through your owner’s manual, spend some time getting more familiar with your car’s systems. Manufacturers make suggestions on when to bring your vehicle in, and how often you should replace fluids and other parts.

Instead of waiting for them to wear down, if you stick to a timetable for replacing items like a timing belt, spark plugs, or hoses, it prevents expensive repairs when things go wrong, and reduces the likelihood of you being caught off-guard. It reduces the chances of you being stranded by the side of the road.

Change fluids frequently

Cars use a variety of fluids for lubrication and to ensure smooth operation. Some you’re used to changing and adding regularly – we’re programmed to replace motor oil every 3,000 miles. Others we may not think much about – when’s the last time you thought about transmission fluid?

AAA surveyed auto repair shops and found that 88 percent of drivers missed brake fluid maintenance, and 35 percent are behind in motor oil changes.

Fluids keep your vehicle operating well. Without fresh, clean fluid, it wears down, accumulates impurities, and allows debris to infiltrate the system. If you haven’t had a fluids check, or aren’t sure when many of them were last checked and replaced, a maintenance visit would be beneficial to ensure your vehicle is operating well.

Say yes to an air filter

It’s easy to overlook the little tasks, but they often cause the biggest problems.

Did you know your engine consumes a lot more air than gasoline? Its performance depends on a careful mix of airflow and fluid to ensure it works correctly no matter what you experience on the road.

The air filter is designed to keep that airflow as clean as possible, keeping dirt and debris outside of the engine where it can wreak havoc over time.

Your owner’s manual will suggest how often you should replace your air filter. Especially in situations where it may err on the side of being dirty, changing it more frequently will never hurt.

Drive as if your car depends on it

We all get busy. We rush from home to work, trying to fit in as many errands as possible. It’s easy to forgo washing the car, push back on how frequently you change the oil, and allow stuff to pile up in the back seat. When you’re late, you push the accelerator to the floor, trying to make up for lost time.

Yet driving your car like you’re in a road race is hard on your car. High speeds can put your braking system at risk as you pounce on the brakes, wear down your tires before their time, and impact the efficiency of your vehicle. Strong braking will rapidly deteriorate your brake pads. Coming to hard stops puts unnecessary wear and tear on your tires. And quick acceleration when your engine is cold can harm parts throughout the system.

Practice better driving not only for the wear and tear of your vehicle, but also for the safety of you and your passengers.

Fix the little problems

We’ve all heard a funny noise coming from somewhere in the engine compartment, and ignored it until we have “time.” That’s the fastest way to allow little issues to grow into big problems.

Cars are designed with warning signals built into all major parts and systems to give you a chance to repair them before they increase in severity. Technology has made it easier with dashboard diagnostic icons that light up when sensors are alerted of a potential problem. When these lights illuminate, it’s a signal to pull in for servicing as quickly as you can.

Rattles, squeaks, hums, bangs, and even smells are often signs of potential problems. Pay attention, and your car will thank you by providing a longer life.

Following a few maintenance tips will make your car last longer

Being proactive means keeping your car in the best possible condition for as long as possible.

The easiest way is to schedule maintenance visits regularly to ensure every system is working well. Notice noises and smells. Question if something doesn’t feel right about the way your car is operating.

It’s the best way to ensure a long life for your vehicle.

Help! My Key Is Stuck In The Ignition

May 18, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Driving tends to be an inert activity, repetitive by nature, something you do as a habit every time you slide in behind the wheel.

Then something happens to wake you up to a potential problem. You park, stop the engine, and realize your key is stuck in the ignition.

Now what?

Before you add pressure and risk breaking it off, don’t panic. You can’t walk away with the key in the ignition. That’s a recipe for disaster.

But using brute force will only give you more headaches. You’ll have a much bigger problem on your hands.

Any key should easily slide out of the ignition once you have rotated it to its original position. If it doesn’t come out, there are several possible reasons.

Why a key gets stuck in the ignition

There are many reasons why a key can get stuck in the ignition.

Your car isn’t in park

If your car’s parking gear isn’t properly set, you might not be able to remove the key. Double check to ensure you’ve moved the gear shift to the “park” position. If you have an automatic transmission, the vehicle must be in “park” before the key can be removed. You can play with the gear shift moving it out of park and back in to see if you can fix the problem. With a manual transmission, you can move the shift to neutral and see if the key has any give. Playing with the shift function can sometimes cause the key to give.

The steering wheel is locked

If you move the steering wheel while turning off your vehicle, sometimes it can activate the steering wheel lock before the key releases. Not only will this prevent you from turning your steering wheel, but you won’t be able to pull the key out of the ignition. The ignition cylinder lock is activated at the same time as the steering wheel lock. To release both locks, simply turn the key gently while moving the steering wheel around. You should hit a point when both locks open up.

There’s debris on the key

Think of everything you put your key through. It’s shuffled around from pockets and handbags. It’s thrown in with a variety of other items. You use it to open boxes and packages. Over time, tiny particles can reside on the key until they change the structure of the key enough to impact functionality. You may notice it gets increasingly difficult to remove over time. Cleaning your key from time to time will ensure it keeps working at its best.

Your key is damaged

After years of abuse, a key can simply stop working. It may have tiny cracks, or the grooves have worn away. If you notice any damage, replace the key immediately. It’s a good idea to always have a spare for this reason. It provides you with an original key structure to fall back on.

Your battery is dead

The ignition system requires power from your car’s battery to function. If the battery dies, it will most likely cause the ignition system to lock up. If that happens when you’re trying to remove it from the ignition, it will get stuck. The best thing to do in this situation is to jumpstart your vehicle and see if it releases your key.

The ignition cylinder is bad

A vehicle is made from 10,000 parts. At any time, any one of those parts can go bad. If the ignition cylinder fails, it can lock in your key and prevent it from releasing. This is because there are rows of spring-loaded pins that align when you place the key into the ignition cylinder. Once in place, they hold on tight. Failure at this point will require repair work on the ignition system to fix the problem.

How to get a stuck key out of the ignition

What it takes to get your key out of the ignition depends on the situation. If you are armed with the above knowledge, you’ll have a few things to try.

But you should also pay attention to the process. Is this the first time you’ve had trouble with your key? Has it been getting worse over time? That can also weigh in as to what might be wrong.

If this is the first time you’ve had trouble, the most common reason is a gear that isn’t quite in the right place. Confirm your gear shift is in “P” or “park.” You can move it out and back in to ensure the gears are properly aligned.

Then jiggle the steering wheel. It’s also common for the steering wheel column lock to move into place, locking up the ignition too. Don’t put too much pressure on either, just a gentle wiggle will sometimes release the lock and key.

If this is a growing or common occurrence, you might have bigger problems.

Start by cleaning off your key. Use rubbing alcohol to get into the cracks. If you notice adhesive or a more stubborn substance, an adhesive remover might do the job.

If you still haven’t solved the problem, your next step should be bringing your car to a mechanic to fully assess what’s happening with your vehicle. A mechanic can determine if it’s time to replace the ignition lock cylinder.

And if the worst has happened, and the key has broken off in the ignition, you’re not the first person who has had to deal with this problem. It can happen when you apply too much force trying to remove it.

Do not try and insert the top half of the key to try and get the bottom half out. If you do anything to try and pry out the bottom half, you may push the broken half further into the lock, making it even more difficult to repair. Locksmiths do use key extractor tools to remove broken pieces of keys. Be sure to call in a professional, so you don’t further damage other parts of your car.

Have you ever experienced a key getting stuck in the ignition?

7 Maintenance Tips For Keeping Your Car’s Engine Running Smoothly

May 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

According to a new report, today’s average car price is just over $47,000 and continues to rise.

When you invest in a car today, keeping it running well is top priority. It costs enough for monthly payments and insurance fees, who needs the added expense of repair bills?

The adage of “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” applies to keeping your vehicle running smoothly. The engine is at the heart of your car’s operating system. While you might not think much about your engine while moving down the road, you will if it starts making noises, or when the drive isn’t as comfortable as it once was.

Engines need maintenance too. If you keep your engine in good operating condition, it will provide you with years of service. Ignore it, and you’ll pay for it many times over.

What can you do?

Start with an oil change

Changing the oil is drilled into every driver from the moment they get their license. There’s a good reason for that. It’s the lifeblood of your car.

When you change the oil regularly, you’re providing fresh, high-quality fluid into various engine parts, protecting them from potential danger. Oil keeps parts lubricated so they won’t overheat.

7 Maintenance Tips For Keeping Your Car’s Engine Running Smoothly

Most repair shops and oil changing stations will recommend changing oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Check with your car’s manufacturer for specific guidelines. Err on the side frequency. It’s better to ensure your vehicle is operating with high-quality fluids rather than allowing contaminants to reside inside. Age of the motor oil matters just as much as mileage if you work from home and rarely drive.

Change out the oil filter when you add new fluid. The oil filter collects dirt and debris and prevents it from circulating back into the engine. This ensures motor oil runs freely through the system, and won’t clog up because of contaminants.

Keep the cooling system in good condition

The cooling system includes the radiator, thermostat, water pump, and coolant. The easiest way to prevent your car from overheating is to ensure coolant is flowing through the system, protecting the major components.

Coolant circulates when the thermostat determines enough heat is in the system to start cooling it down. The water pump pushes coolant from the radiator to the engine block, then back down to the radiator to be cooled once again.

You can check the coolant levels by looking at the coolant tank underneath the hood. It’s a clear tank with green or orange liquid. You can also bring it in for an inspection, and we’ll ensure your coolant levels are topped off.

Check the air filter

Just like a dirty air filter won’t allow proper flow of motor oil throughout the engine compartment, an air filter won’t operate correctly if it’s clogged with dirt and debris. Air filters keep things like bugs, dirt, and leaves from circulating through the air supply as you drive from making it into the engine. Depending on how you drive, the air filter can last a long time, but if it’s allowed to get too dirty, it will impact your engine in several ways. It stops airflow and lessens oxygen needed for the engine to function correctly. It decreases efficiency, which can also reduce your gas mileage. If it’s allowed to get too dirty, it can block the system and cause irreparable damage to your engine. If you’re getting your oil changed regularly anyway, have the technicians look at the air filter to ensure it’s clean.

Check for leaks

One of the benefits of parking in a garage, driveway, or parking spot is you can pay attention to potential problems. As you pull away, look to see if there are any fluids on the ground. The two main fluids you want to ensure aren’t leaking from your vehicle are motor oil and coolant.

The engine is constantly under pressure, with extreme heat forming as you drive. Over time, parts wear out, rubber hoses can crack and break, and they can cause fluid to leak and pool when your car sits for a while.

You can also pop the hood from time to time and see if anything is pooling near the engine compartment. Take a whiff – some fluids have distinct smells. If you do notice fluid, note its color. Motor oil will be dark brown or black. Engine coolant will be green or orange. Automatic transmission fluid will be red or brown. Power steering fluid will be reddish-brown, or darker as it ages. Brake fluid is clear when new, but will turn darker brown over time.

Follow up on all dashboard lights

Dashboard lights illuminate for a reason. While it’s easy to ignore them, they light up to give you ample time to take action.

The check engine light turns on frequently, and warns of a variety of problems, including alternator, battery, or even temperature problems. The best way to find where the issue originates is to bring it in for a diagnostic test.

Replace the fuel filter

The fuel filter is similar in function to the oil filter. They both filter out particles in the fluids they use. Where an oil filter filters particles out of engine oil, the fuel filter takes particles out of the fuel. Fuel filters keep the fuel source cleaner, giving your system better energy to operate with. This can impact your fuel efficiency too.

Change spark plugs

Spark plugs and wires run from the distributor to the cylinders, sending an electrical current to the spark plugs to ignite the fuel. They are used every time you turn your vehicle on. When they get too old, they cause your engine to run rough. Most manufacturers suggest to change them every 30,000 miles or so, but a technician can run diagnostic checks to determine if it benefits you to change them now.

What do you do to your car to keep it running smoothly?

Regular maintenance helps protect your vehicle as well as keep your repair bills to a minimum. Is today the day you give your car an inspection to ensure everything is working well?

How To Extend The Life of Your Car’s Brakes

May 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Driving a car is a little bit of paying attention to the road in front of you, and a little bit of listening to how well your car is operating.

If you listen, you can hear squeaks, chirps, and hums, warning you a potential problem is on the horizon. You can watch for smoke, feel vibrations, or even notice a burning smell coming from underneath the hood, all warning you something is wrong.

Your car’s braking system is one of the most vital systems on your vehicle. And even in the best circumstances, you’ll have to replace the brake pads every 30,000 to 70,000 miles or so.

Is it possible to extend the life of your car’s brakes? Can you make your vehicle’s brakes last longer?

Understanding the brake system

Before we get into extending the life of your car’s brakes, it’s important to understand how they work.

All modern vehicles on the road today use hydraulic brakes. They work by pressurizing and transferring brake fluid to each of the braking components located at each wheel. Whether disk or drum brakes, they use this pressurized fluid to apply the friction of the brake pad material against the rotors, creating the pressure needed for braking.

How To Extend The Life of Your Car’s Brakes

Many cars on the road also use anti-lock brakes. These have wheel speed sensors, a computer control module, and an actuator to work together with the hydraulic brakes and prevent them from locking up during hard braking. They keep the car safer under extreme conditions.

Hybrid vehicles also bring a regenerative braking system that works alongside hydraulic brakes, using electric components to initially slow the car. It relies on hydraulics to bring it safely to a stop.

A parking brake provides added protection when hydraulic or regenerative braking systems need support. They apply more pressure on the rear braking assembly, perfect for keeping your car in place so it won’t roll.

How can I make my brakes last longer?

Modern braking systems function and rely on several key parts.

Master cylinder – used to push hydraulic fluid down into the brake lines
Brake rotor – spins while the vehicle moves, used in conjunction with the brake pad and caliper to cause friction to slow the car
Brake drum – the alternative to a brake rotor, used when cars use drum brakes instead of disc brakes
Brake pad – they rub against the spinning brake disc
Brake caliper – provide the clamping force that pushes the brake pad into the rotor
Brake shoe – used on drum brakes, the alternative to a brake pad
Brake booster – amplifies pressure from pushing down on brake pedal
Brake pedal – small pedal by the gas pedal
Brake lines – transfer brake fluid between the master cylinder and wheels

If you want to extend the life of your car’s brakes, knowing what each piece does helps you make better decisions while driving. Extending the life comes from care and maintenance of each piece of the braking system.

Inspect your brakes regularly – in order to properly maintain the brake system, it’s important to have it thoroughly checked. At a minimum, schedule a yearly maintenance visit to allow a mechanic to inspect the system and make any necessary repairs. If you are road tripping and will be driving extensively, you might have the brake system checked first to ensure it’s working properly. You can also have the brake fluid levels checked to ensure the hydraulics work efficiently.

Slow down – one of the hardest things for your braking system is to stop a fast-moving car. If you find yourself stomping on the brake pedal frequently, back away and give yourself more braking room. Extra heat on the brake pads adds friction, which wears down the material faster. It can also cause the rotors to warp as well.

Change your driving habits – tailgating leads to a lot of quick braking. When you leave more space, it gives you more room to slow down. Without pouncing on the brakes, it saves the brake pads by reducing the amount of heat transferring within the system.

Reduce the weight of your vehicle – more weight takes more stopping power. Instead of carrying a lot of extra equipment in your car, leave it behind and only haul what’s absolutely necessary. This will also help you improve your gas mileage too.

Is there such a thing as lifetime brakes?

We’ve recently seen flyers that offer a lifetime guarantee on brake pads. Seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? That’s because it is.

It’s just one more tactic repair companies use to try and gain your loyalty over time.

Brake pads will wear out. It’s a fact.

Different manufacturers may provide slightly different materials, which can provide you with a somewhat different lifespan. Yet overall, brake pads will last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. It depends on type, composition, even the way you drive your vehicle. But eventually, your brake pads will wear out.

Those lifetime brakes are a ploy to bring you back into the repair shop where you originally had them installed. With a “warranty” in hand, they’ll gladly give you “free” brake pads. Where you’ll pay is in the labor charges. And their labor charges are probably going to be one of the highest rates in the area.

You’ll pay one way or another.

This concept of “lifetime” brakes can be problematic for another reason: It gives the driver a false sense of hope. If you don’t anticipate your brake pads wearing down, you don’t look at minor telltale signs that your brakes are failing.

The braking system contains more than brake pads. It’s a series of parts and components working together to keep your car under control and ultimately bring it to a stop. Those parts can wear down just as easily as brake pads. Even with wear left on your brake pads, these other parts can fail.

And if you aren’t anticipating it, you might overlook the warning signs. Putting you in danger.

Are your brakes operating well?

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

May 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

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

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

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

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

What are the most common summer car problems?

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

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

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

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

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

Oil change

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

Air conditioner

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

Tire pressure

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

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

Vehicle fluids

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

Brakes

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

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

Clean your car

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

Keep your engine cool

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

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

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

What Happens When Brand New Brakes Squeak?

May 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When people replace old brake pads, it’s usually because they are old, worn down, and making a horrible noise. It’s hard to ignore that high-pitched squeak every time you press down on the brake pedal.

So it can be disheartening when you drive away from the mechanics, step on the brake pedal, and discover your brakes are still making a noise. What is that squeak? And why is it making that sound? There’s a good reason for that.

Why old brakes squeak

Before we dive into why your new brakes are squeaking, let’s build up your understanding of how the brake system works.

Brakes are one of the most crucial systems on your vehicle. Without them, you could be put in dangerous, even life-threatening situations on a daily basis.

That’s why brake pads have their own internal warning system to alert you to a potential problem. As the brake pad wears down, metal is revealed within the brake pad to connect with the rotor as you apply pressure to the brakes. This metal-on-metal connection creates a squeak you can’t ignore.

It’s for safety.

So why would new brakes squeak?

When you replace the brake pads, the metal core is no longer visible, so the sound should disappear.

But sometimes it doesn’t. What could be the problem?

Road debris

Even living right here in the Denver Metro area can provide you with many different driving experiences. Do you live in the Foothills, driving up and down steep hills each day? Do you live just outside of town in a rural area, where dirt roads are a normal part of your routine? Or maybe it’s highway all the way. But those potholes and road debris can sometimes be quite alarming.

Even urban driving can have a minefield of potential problems on the roadway. Rocks, sticks, nuts and bolts, acorns, stones, and more can all harm your vehicle in many ways. As you drive away from the mechanics, a small piece of debris can make its way up and get stuck between the brake pad and the rotor. Do you hear the sound even without pressing down on the brake pedal? That’s most likely the case.

Pay attention for the next few miles. It may work its way out of the system, or break down without causing more issues. If you still hear it, bring it in for a second look.

Moisture

It might be the weather. As you drive a few dozen miles after installing new brakes, what road conditions have you faced? Ice? Snow? Rain? Wet pavement? All of that can form a thin layer of condensation between the brake pads and the brake rotor. This can lead to a thin layer of rust on the rotor, which can break off into tiny pieces and stick to the brake pad. This causes a squeaking noise as the two connect.

In most cases, this noise will disappear after pressing down on the brake pedal a few times. If it doesn’t, bring it in and we’ll take a look.

Break-in period

When brake pads are replaced, the brake rotors are removed, measured, machined, and possibly replaced. They need to have a smooth, flat surface to ensure good connection between the rotors and the brake pads.

If this process doesn’t occur, the connection might not be a close fit. That can allow several things to occur, including glazing.

Glazing is a hardening process that creates a smooth pad surface. This makes it difficult to create the necessary friction for stopping the vehicle.

It can happen with repeated rapid braking where you stomp on the brakes. Or if you drive with your foot on the brake pedal, keeping the brake pad constantly connected with the brake rotor. That excess heat causes glazing. And you might hear it in the form of a squeak.

Brake pad material

Not all brake pads are the same. There are several different brake pad materials, depending on which you have installed.

Most cars on the road today use semi-metallic brake pads. They’re created from metal shavings of copper, steel, graphite, and brass, bonded with resin. They are best suited for vehicles used for everyday driving. They perform well, last a long time, and are economical.

Organic brake pads are quieter than other materials. They are created from non-metallic compounds such as glass, rubber, and Kevlar. They are eco-friendly, which is why some drivers prefer them. Yet they aren’t as durable and will need replacing sooner. They are designed for lighter traffic situations.

Ceramic brake pads are best suited for high-performance vehicles. They are made from ceramic fibers and other materials. They are very durable and perform well in many different situations.

Different brake materials create different sounds on your vehicle. While you may be used to the way your vehicle performed before, it might take an adjustment to your new brake sounds. If you have any questions, give us a call.

Quality

Where did you go to have your brake pads replaced? While we strive to deliver quality service every time, we can’t say the same for every mechanic.

This is where reputation comes into play. When you get to know a mechanic, you build a relationship with the service they provide. You have a better understanding of the work they do.

Going with a “good deal,” or even a friend down the road can lead to serious consequences.

Did the technician you entrusted brake replacement to provide full-service? Did they install high-quality brake pads? Did they spend the extra time cleaning and lubricating the various brake system parts?

Are your new brake pads squeaking?

When you replace old brake pads, your new brake pads should work well. If you hear squeaking, squealing, or some other sound, it should disappear after a few miles. If not, bring it in for a second look.

What brake questions can we answer for you?

Your Car Speed Sensor May Be Bad

April 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

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

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

What is a speed sensor?

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

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

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

Can I drive my car with a bad speed sensor?

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

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

Speedometer problems

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

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

Cruise control problems

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

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

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

Transmission problems

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

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

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

Check engine light

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

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

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

How do you fix a speed sensor malfunction?

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

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

Speed sensors can also malfunction if:

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

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

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

Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Pickup Truck Working Hard For Years

April 24, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

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

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

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

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

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

How do you ensure all of that?

Never miss an oil change

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

Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Pickup Truck Working Hard For Years

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

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

Rotate your tires

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

Watch tire pressure

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

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

Wheel alignments are necessary

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

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

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

Know your road well

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

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

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

What does your pickup truck need for a long life?

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

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

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

Extend The Life of Your Vehicle With These Easy Maintenance Tips

April 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

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

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

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

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

Get started by reading your owner’s manual

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

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

Never push a cold car

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

Extend The Life of Your Vehicle With These Easy Maintenance Tips

Pay attention to your dashboard

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

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

Check and replace fluids regularly

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

Basic fluids your vehicle relies on include:

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

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

Check your tires

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

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

Keep it clean

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

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

Plan out your trips

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

When you do buy a new vehicle

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

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

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

How can we help you with your regular maintenance needs?

Car Maintenance Tips That Will Improve Fuel Efficiency

April 18, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

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

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

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

What is fuel efficiency?

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

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

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

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

Car Maintenance Tips That Will Improve Fuel Efficiency

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

But it isn’t the only way.

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

Where do you start?

Regular tune ups make a car more efficient

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

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

Balance, rotate, and inflate your tires

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

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

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

Change the motor oil

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

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

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

Clean out the air filter

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

Change out the spark plugs

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

Slow down

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

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

How can you improve fuel efficiency?

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

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

When was the last time you scheduled an inspection?