Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Why Wheel Alignment Will Save You Money In The Long Run

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

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

What is wheel alignment?

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

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

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

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

Why Wheel Alignment Will Save You Money In The Long Run

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

Wheel alignment is important to the life of a tire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What if you don’t get wheel alignment?

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

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

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

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

How many miles will a wheel alignment last?

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

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

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

Should You Shop For a New Mechanic With Every Car Repair?

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As a car owner, taking care of your vehicle is an important part of ownership. When you buy it new, it works great for a while. But as a driver, you also understand it’s going to take a little TLC along the way to keep it in good working condition. New motor oil every few thousand miles. New tires when they start wearing down. 

How you approach your car’s maintenance routine will set the stage for how well it operates throughout the years. 

Should you trust your car to just anyone? Is there a difference from one mechanic to another? Should you shop around for a new mechanic with every car repair? Or should you trust one for the life of your car? 

Let’s look at it from a few different angles. 

Trust

Most people have daily routines. You drive to and from work. You drop the kids off at school. You stop at your favorite grocery store for dinner supplies. You have your favorite shops for clothes and other personal items. 

Chances are you trust each of those shops for a reason. You like their products. You enjoy the staff. You feel good about the purchases you make. 

That’s what trust is all about. 

Why should it be any different with who services your vehicle? By looking for a new mechanic with each service you require, you’re trusting your car’s mechanics to someone you have no experience with. Will they provide you with the best parts? Will they perform high-quality service? Are they reputable? Or will you pay the price down the road? 

Let’s say you take your car to a new mechanic. It’s a service station you’ve passed on your way to work. You received a coupon; why not give them a try? You receive a call shortly after you drop off your vehicle. While you only wanted new brake pads, they tell you there’s a lot more wrong with the braking system. And the price goes up, up, up. They even add a few scare tactics in for good measure: “I wouldn’t drive it under these conditions.” Now what do you do? 

By finding a mechanic you can trust, you won’t have to rely on coupons and scare tactics. You’ll work together to ensure your vehicle is always working well. 

Reputation

Let’s talk a little more about reputation. We’ve all heard the horror stories from friends and family who feel they’ve been ripped off by going to a less than reputable mechanic. What started out as a simple routine maintenance item turned into an expensive several day event. And even driving away, you were left wondering if your car was really okay. 

Close-up hands of auto mechanic are using the wrench to repair a car engine in auto car garage. Concepts of car care fixed repair and services.

That won’t happen if you pay attention to reputation first. Reputable mechanics care about their customers. They start a business to help people, and do what it takes to stay in business for the long term. 

They join local organizations to be a part of the community. They get to know their customers, and care about what’s going on in their lives. They work hard to build a business that thrives, and aren’t interested in making quick bucks right off the top. 

How can you test potential mechanics? Give them a try with something small. Find out what they say about the condition of your car. Do you agree? 

Trust and reputation go hand in hand; you can’t have one without the other. The more customers who put their trust in a mechanic, the more their reputation will grow. 

Attitude

Most people don’t have a deep understanding of auto mechanics. Nor do they have a desire to learn. 

Modern day cars have over 10,000 parts all connected together to get you where you want to go. They also have complex technology that fine tunes the various systems. 

It takes a lot of experience to understand what to look for when you bring your car in. You may tell us your car shakes and shimmies, or makes a loud honking noise, but what does that really mean? It can take a while to get to the root cause. 

While you might not be interested in the nitty-gritty details, it’s also important to understand what happened? If a mechanic takes the time to sit down with you and explains what happened, you will feel better about the solution. 

A good mechanic may also give you several options. They can help you choose what’s right for you, then help you keep your car in good working condition. They can watch a problem, nurse it along, and continue to make suggestions as time goes by. 

But it all starts with a good explanation. A reputable mechanic knows this, and will take the time to sit down with you. They won’t rush the job, push you towards spending more. They will help you make the right choice for your situation. And keep you safe in the process. 

Notice how the three work together: trust, reputation, and attitude? The more you pay attention to one, the more you’ll discover all three. 

There’s one final way you can work with a reputable business and avoid looking for a new mechanic every time you have a problem. Ask about their guarantees. 

Some parts have warranties. Some processes have guarantees. Most good mechanics will be upfront about both, and tell you what you can expect right along with their estimates. 

With guarantees and warranties in place, you’ll know you’re covered in the future. Be sure to ask what keeps the warranty good, and what will null and void it. In some cases, you may have to make certain maintenance schedules to ensure the warranty stays valid. A reputable mechanic will give you all the information you need before you drive away. 

Do you have a repair you’re in need of? Are you shopping for a new mechanic? 

A better approach might be to find a reputable service shop, one you can trust and talk with. 

Stop by today, we’d be happy to discuss your service needs with you. We’re here for the long term, and look forward to serving you. 

Is Your Car’s Electrical System Working?

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Electricity and cars. When you hear these two words put together, it’s natural to think about the electric cars being sold by multiple manufacturers. It’s hard not to notice the infrastructure being built to allow more electric cars on the road. 

But traditional vehicles that operate on gasoline have an electrical system too. Without the electrical system, your car would malfunction. It helps start the engine, without it, you would never be able to drive. 

The electrical system consists of the battery, starter, and alternator. When you turn the key or press the button, the battery provides energy to the starter. This action gives power to the alternator, which in turn recharges the battery. If one of these parts isn’t working properly, your car won’t start or operate. 

Car electrical issues will cause many problems that prevent you from driving your car. If you recognize these issues early, you can fix the problem before it leaves you stranded by the side of the road. 

How do you recognize potential electrical system problems? 

Like other systems, your electrical system will provide early warning signs that a potential issue is building. Notice the warning signs early, and you can bring your vehicle in for repair before the problem grows in severity. Have you noticed:

Car lights dimming – the electrical system powers the accessories you use each time you drive your vehicle. If you notice it’s harder to see while driving at night, it could be a sign of a failing battery. 

Clicking sound when you turn the key – you can hear the starter trying to engage, but your vehicle has difficulty performing the function. There is insufficient power from the battery to start the vehicle.

Is Your Car’s Electrical System Working?

Slow engine crank – you turn the key, and the engine is sluggish as it tries to engage. 

Backfiring – when a battery is failing, it can send intermittent sparks out that can lead to excess fuel in the cylinders. This built-up fuel is ignited when it experiences increased force, which sends out a sound you can’t miss. 

Burning smells – this is a sign of a short circuit. If the electrical system isn’t working properly, or has become disconnected in any way, it can cause heat to build and short out a circuit. Stop driving and bring it in for repairs. 

A deeper understanding of electrical system components

The electrical system is made up of three components: the battery, starter, and alternator. Each performs a specific function in assuring your vehicle stays operational. 

Battery

The power supply starts with the battery. Until your vehicle starts and is running, your battery provides all electrical current. That includes power to the ignition and fuel system, which create the combustion process necessary for the engine to start and operate. 

Starter

While the battery supplies power, it’s the starter that gets the engine running. The battery is there to provide the necessary power to give the starter what it needs to turn over the motor. The starter is nothing more than an electric motor that engages when you turn the ignition from off to run. On the engine, a flywheel is attached to the end of the crankshaft. On the starter, a gear mechanism is designed to fit into grooves on a pinion gear. When the ignition is turned on, the starter is energized, it pushes a rod to engage with the pinion gear that connects with the flywheel. This turns the engine over, which adds air into the system to connect with the fuel supply. At the same time, electricity is pushed through the spark plugs, igniting the fuel in the chamber. When the engine turns over and moves into operational mode, the starter disengages, the rod retracts, and the gear moves away from the flywheel to avoid damage from the internal movement. 

The starter can be difficult to detect when a problem arises. But if you have any trouble with the starting process, one of our mechanics can use any number of detection techniques to determine if the starter is drawing enough electricity. 

Alternator

It’s the alternator’s job to keep the car running once the engine has been turned on. The alternator powers most of the car’s electronic components, including headlights, power windows, windshield wipers, heated seats, dashboard illumination, and the radio. The alternator supplies them with direct current power as well as keeps the battery charged while driving. 

When the engine is operating, it powers a drive belt attached to a pulley. It’s the pulley system’s job to turn the alternator’s rotor shaft, which spins a set of magnets around a coil. This is what generates alternating current and channels it into the alternator’s rectifier. The rectifier converts alternating current into direct current, and controls the car’s electrical system. It’s rare that an alternator wears out, but it can from overuse, exposure to water, heat damage, or other wear and tear. 

If you notice electrical issues, don’t delay getting mechanical advice. A thorough examination can get to the root of the problem, and ensure your vehicle is working well once again. Some of the common issues you’ll notice include:

  • A dead battery 
  • Corroded battery cables
  • Blown fuses
  • Damaged or worn spark plugs
  • A battery that no longer charges
  • A worn starter
  • A malfunctioning alternator 

You can ignore the problem, but it won’t go away. Any symptoms you notice are a warning sign that something is wrong with the system. Fix it quickly, and you can stop the problem before it escalates. 

Contact us if you’re having issues with your car’s electrical system. One of our mechanics will inspect the system and determine where the problem lies. We’ll offer you solutions and help you make the right choice to get you back on the road in no time. 

3 Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Car at Top Value

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We live in a disposable world. If something breaks, we throw it away. 

With modern electronics like cellphones, computers, and entertainment consoles, technology is almost out-of-date when we purchase the device. After a year or two, we start to look at the next release, finding all the bells and whistles too tempting to ignore. 

As much as modern day vehicles use technology to their advantage, it’s more difficult to think of your vehicle as a disposable item. When it costs tens of thousands of dollars, it’s more important to care for your vehicle rather than letting it run down. You can’t run and pick up the latest release from the store with the same ease as a smartphone. 

Today’s cars are expensive. Learning the most important maintenance tips will keep your vehicle running well for as long as you own it. Doing so will ensure you have reliable transportation, no matter what the weather is outside, no matter where your travels will take you each day. 

And when it’s time to trade in your vehicle for something new, you know it will hold its value. 

What is car value?

Value can take on a variety of meanings. But when most people think about car value, they think in monetary terms. Value becomes the estimate of how much the vehicle is worth. 

3 Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Car at Top Value

When a car is brand new, being sold from the dealer, it has a price tag that goes along with it. You may have a little wiggle room, but in most cases, you’ll pay somewhere around the sticker price. 

The value of the vehicle changes the moment you drive the car off the lot. If you do a search online, you’ll find a variety of resources that can help you determine how much your car is currently worth. Things to consider include:

  • Make and model
  • Year of production
  • Mileage
  • Condition
  • Where you live
  • Demand

It also depends on what type of transaction will occur. 

  • A trade-in value is what you can expect if you bring it to the dealer and hand over your current vehicle in order to make an offer on a different car. 
  • A private party value would be the amount an individual would be willing to pay for the car if you handle the transaction yourself. 
  • A BlueBook value would be the suggested retail price based on make, model, and year alone. 

Maintenance tips to ensure top dollar when you sell

If you want the highest trade-in value, or have a desire to sell your car for the highest possible price, maintenance will play a key role in helping you achieve your goal. With common sense maintenance tips, you’ll create an easy plan to ensure you achieve top dollar when it comes time to sell. 

Be kind to the engine

A car’s engine is arguably one of the most important components of today’s modern cars. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to go. Keeping it in good shape means it’s reliable and ready to move whenever you sit behind the wheel. 

Regular maintenance starts with motor oil changes. Most manufacturers suggest bringing your vehicle in for servicing every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This ensures your engine is operating with clean oil, and gives mechanics a chance to check and determine if other components are in good working condition too. 

In between oil changes, don’t ignore other messages your vehicle might be sending you. Is your heater working in the winter, and your air conditioner operating well in the summer? If your car is struggling to produce proper temperatures, it could be a sign of deeper problems. 

Pay attention to what’s happening around your car. As you leave your parking space or garage, take a quick glance underneath as you drive away. Are there any leaks? Note the size of the puddle, the color, and if there are any unusual smells. An antifreeze leak will take on a lime-green, orange, pink, or blue-green color, and may have a sweet aroma after you’ve driven it. 

You should also refer to your owner manual frequently, and bring your car in for regular checkups to ensure all systems are working properly. Brakes, belts, spark plugs, and more can all last thousands of miles, but may eventually wear down to the point of causing problems with the way your vehicle drives and handles. Through regular inspections, you can catch potential issues before they escalate, leaving your car in better working condition throughout its life. Which in turn extends its life as well. 

Maintain the interior too

If you spend a lot of time in your vehicle driving around town, you might think of it as a second home. There’s a pile of papers on the floor, leftover food bags behind the seat. Gym bags in the trunk, and extra grocery bags piling up in the back. Over time, these things accumulate, attract dirt and dust, and can eventually impact the air you breathe. 

As this settles into the seats, dashboard, and floorboards, it can dull the interior of your car. If you ever hope to sell it, this will be difficult to correct, and lower the amount you can ask for the car. To keep your value high, take a few minutes each week to ensure the interior shines. 

Replace early

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Most of us take that approach to maintenance in every situation in our lives. 

Yet to keep your car running well and free from potential problems, staying ahead of maintenance items will ensure the best condition for your vehicle. Read your owner’s manual thoroughly. Pay attention to maintenance checks to perform at different mileage markers. And consider working with our service station on a regular basis. This will allow our mechanics to understand your car, make suggestions about routine maintenance items, and help you make the best decisions for keeping your car on the road in the best condition. You’ll save money by replacing things before they can escalate into larger issues. 

Keep your car in good working condition. Maintain the value of your car simply by staying ahead of maintenance items, ensuring your vehicle is always running at peak performance. 

What can we help you with today? 

Making Your Brakes Last

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As a driver, you know some parts wear out sooner than others. You have to get an oil change every few thousand miles. Tires need to be replaced when they start to wear down. And brakes, they’re important too. 

Yet things are expensive these days. Money only stretches so far. If you’ve ever put off a maintenance item because something else takes precedence, you’ve pushed the limits of stretching the workability of a part. 

Brakes are an integral part of every car. Imagine sailing down I-70 without brakes. That would be more than a thrill ride as you try to keep control around every corner. But it doesn’t take a steep hill to throw you into a dangerous situation. Even approaching a stoplight in town can be a scary situation if you tap on the brake pedal and nothing happens. 

Having an efficient braking system will ensure your safety in every situation. How do you balance that with the desire to make your brakes last as long as possible? 

First, realize your braking system is only designed to last for so long. It will wear out over time. While you often hear brake pads are the first to go, it isn’t always the case. The brake system is made up of many different parts, and depending on how it wears down, a variety of things can go wrong over time. 

Overall, brakes will start to lose their effectiveness around 25,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for more information, as your manufacturer has guidelines for every system they build. 

You can’t make your brakes last forever, but there are things you can do to extend their life. Here’s what you can do. 

Smart driving 

There are two types of drivers: offensive and defensive. When you slow down, stop being in a rush to get from place to place, you tend not to put as much stress on your vehicle. You can watch the traffic around you and assess what’s happening before you get into situations that require quick decisions. You can drive without putting excessive strain on your brake system. 

Making Your Brakes Last

Stomping on the brakes is never a good thing. It requires reflexive decisions, and makes you more likely to spin out of control. Leave space between you and the car in front of you no matter if you’re on a drive into the mountains, or are heading to the grocery store in your own neighborhood. This allows you to brake softly, putting less strain on your entire braking system. 

It’s also important to use your brakes fully engaged. Have you ever stopped at a light, and pulled up on the brakes allowing the wheels to inch forward? That’s known as wheel creep, which also increases wear on the braking system. Are you a two-footed driver? Do you keep one actively on the gas pedal while the other is on the brakes? That also puts excessive wear on the brake system. Use the brakes as intended, and they will last longer and provide more service for as long as you own your vehicle. 

Keeping your vehicle well maintained

When was the last time you washed your car? When was the last time you cleaned it thoroughly, inside and out? Are there boxes and bags of things in your trunk? Do you carry around excess weight that’s only adding to the heaviness of your car? Take out the sports equipment, the home maintenance projects, and the boxes left over from school. If it doesn’t belong in your vehicle for day to day travel, take it out. 

That’s because a heavier vehicle takes more braking power to control. Every vehicle was designed with specific guidelines in place. Manufacturers created the brake system to fully control the vehicle and the passengers it carries. When you start adding in ski equipment, a toolbox, parts from the hardware store – items that can add tens, if not hundreds of pounds of extra weight – it adds strain on the movement of the vehicle. 

It’s not just your brakes that will thank you. Excessive weight also strains tires and gas mileage too, making you spend more every day you drive your car. 

Brake system flush

When you press down on the brake pedal, it’s the job of brake fluid to allow your braking system to fully function. Brake fluid moves through the braking line, which causes the brake pads to compress against the rotors, which slows and stops your car. 

Like other fluids that flow through your car to make it operate efficiently, brake fluid will only last for so long. Eventually, it wears down, dirt, air, particles, and other contaminants infiltrate the fluid, and make it sluggish as it moves through the system. Ever tap on the brake pedal and have it feel spongy, non-responsive? That could be contaminated brake fluid in the line. 

A brake system flush rids the line of fluid and moisture and replaces it with clean brake fluid. A flush ensures you’ll have optimal performance from your braking system overall. It keeps all components of the brake system working their best. While the industry average is right around 25,000 miles, it’s dependent on the make and model of your vehicle. Not sure? We have access to all vehicle guidelines and can help determine the right maintenance schedule for your vehicle. 

Regular maintenance

As a car owner, you know certain aspects of car maintenance are important. You fill it up with gas regularly. You replace the tires. You get an oil change every 3,000 miles. 

While it might seem like a good way to save money, coupon shopping will not help you properly maintain your car. When you find coupons for every maintenance item you need completed, chances are you’re stretching out the timeframe of when it’s best to make changes to your vehicle. You notice a problem, and look for the best way to save money. You ignore the problem until it’s too big to ignore. 

By using a service station regularly for all of your vehicle’s needs, it’s similar to going to the same doctor for your wellness checkups, so they understand what to watch for and what to suggest. A mechanic gets to know your vehicle, makes notes of what to watch for, and can make suggestions to increase the longevity of each system within your vehicle. 

There are often problems only a practiced eye will notice. We work with different vehicles every day, and have the knowledge and skill to help you make the most of every part, every system within your car. 

Regular Maintenance For Your Diesel Car or Truck Can Increase Longevity

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Diesel cars and trucks might not be as popular in the US market as they are overseas, but they still make up over 7 million vehicles on the road. Diesel registrations account for 2.8 percent of all passenger vehicles, including cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans. If you look at pickup trucks alone, they currently hold just over 10 percent of the market share. 

There’s a reason for that. Many consider diesel to be a dirty fuel. So instead, US buyers are flocking towards hybrids and electric cars, which may be a bigger part of our future. But diesel does have a place as a clean, green option for those wanting a high-powered engine without limiting efficiency. Even today, there are still new diesel vehicles entering the market.  

Both diesel and gasoline engines use internal combustion. Air enters the engine and creates power by combining with fuel. The engine’s cylinders compress the mixture, which ignites. This causes movement of the piston and crankshaft, which activates the transmission to set the car into motion. The piston then moves back into position to expel the used gas out as exhaust. 

The difference between gas and diesel engines involves the compression process. With gas, a spark plug ignites the fuel. Diesel uses extreme compression. That causes diesel engines to have more power, but pays the price as they are louder. 

Yet, for many drivers, if they’ve had diesel-fueled vehicles in the past, they love them for the many benefits they offer: better fuel economy, lower emissions, cheaper and less frequent maintenance visits to the service station. 

Regular Maintenance For Your Diesel Car or Truck Can Increase Longevity

Diesel engines may require fewer maintenance visits, but it doesn’t stop the need for regular maintenance to keep your vehicle operational. If you want your diesel car or truck to last for years, there are a few things you should schedule regularly. 

Keep your car or truck’s engine clean

Since diesel engines can last longer than their gas counterparts, it pays to spend a little more attention on the engine compartment to ensure it’s clean. If you’re navigating over more challenging terrain, dusty, bumpy roads are a part of your daily routine, dirt may accumulate faster on the engine. If it accumulates, it can shorten the lifespan of the various components, which in turn will decrease your fuel efficiency. 

Colorado winters can also wreak havoc on the various engine components. Salt, mag chloride, sand, and other winter hazards can stick inside the engine compartment, and cause corrosion. 

Proper cleaning can start as a part of your regular car or truck washes. Use a moist sponge to wipe down the engine compartment. An old toothbrush can help remove debris from nooks and crannies. Just be sure the engine compartment is cool before you begin any maintenance work, and always wear protective gear such as goggles and gloves before touching and potentially hazardous materials. Check with your owner’s manual to determine appropriate action, as not all parts should be subjected to large amounts of water. 

Don’t forget the oil change

It’s equally important for regular oil changes for your diesel engine compared with a gas engine. Check with your owner’s manual for ballpark timing for changing out your motor oil. A good rule of thumb is around every 5,000 miles, but adjust that based on the kind of driving you do. 

If you regularly use dirt roads, pull heavy equipment, or move up and down the mountain, your car or truck may benefit from oil changes more frequently. This is one of the easiest yet important maintenance tasks you can perform on your vehicle. 

Air filters and fuel filters

Almost all vehicles, including diesels, use an air filter to help keep the engine working at its best. You’ll find it under the hood inside the cold air collector box located near the front of the engine compartment. 

A dirty air filter can choke the engine, meaning it will need more fuel to create the same amount of power you’re used to. Manufacturers recommend changing the air filter every 12,000 miles or so, and having it checked if you notice problems with engine power or acceleration. 

Gas-powered engines use a single fuel filter, but most diesel engines use a primary filter between the engine and gas tank, and another between the transfer pump and injectors. Diesel fuel doesn’t go through the same refining process as gasoline, allowing more condensation in the tank. The two fuel filters help absorb this condensation. If water builds, you may notice a decrease in horsepower, the engine may stall out more frequently, and it could cause problems with your fuel injectors. 

Most diesel fuel filters need replacing every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. Check with your manufacturer for guidelines for your make and model. It’s advisable to replace both fuel filters at the same time. 

Proper cooling maintenance

In order to keep the engine cool, vehicles use coolant, or antifreeze, to transfer heat from the engine back to the air. As coolant moves through the engine compartment, it picks up heat. Hot coolant cycles back into the radiator, which turns the heat back into air. Then the cooled coolant travels back into the engine compartment, and starts the process all over again. 

Because diesel engines run hotter than gas motors, the radiator is at more risk. Higher temperatures mean a greater chance of overheating, which can lead to failure in many of the various components, including cylinders and gasket seals. If you let it go on too long, you risk complete engine failure. 

Proper cooling maintenance includes regular changing of coolant. This involves pumping specialized cleaning fluid through the cooling system and radiator to remove rust and any impurities left in the system by dirty or compromised coolant. The system is then topped off with fresh coolant to help with efficiency. 

Once again, check with your owner’s manual for radiator flush recommendations. A good rule of thumb is around every 40,000 to 60,000 miles. If you notice orange or green fluid leaks under your car, a sweet smell coming from the engine, or steam coming up from underneath the hood, it may be an indicator of a problem with your cooling system. 

Partner with someone for the best regular diesel maintenance for your vehicle

Whether you use your diesel car or truck for work or play, it’s important to know you can rely on it to get you where you’re going. Maintenance for your diesel car or truck is imperative to keep your vehicle running well for years. Stop by today and learn how we can help you keep your car or truck working at its best now and for years to come. 

Your Suspension Is Important – Here’s Why

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We’ve all seen the aftermath of a car out of control. The sides are crushed. The windows are broken. If it rolls, the roof may be caved in. 

It’s your car’s suspension system that keeps it safely on the road. 

A car can flip for a number of reasons. But if it isn’t well maintained, it increases the chance of problems occurring while driving out on the open road. Have you noticed:

  • Bouncing more than usual when you ride on a bumpy road
  • More pull in the steering wheel as you drive
  • It’s harder to keep control on wet roads
  • Traction issues as you move through curves and take turns

All of these are signs you may be experiencing problems with your suspension system. 

What is a suspension system?

Your car’s suspension system is a protective layer of shock-absorbing components designed to keep your drive safe and smooth as you move down the road. It includes a variety of parts, including tires, struts, shock absorbers, steering, springs, sway bars, and axles. 

The front suspension system is in charge of steering and traction functions, while the rear suspension helps keep your car stable, ensuring it doesn’t hit the ground. The two work together to keep distance between the car’s frame and the road for optimal comfort and control. The passenger cabin is designed for comfort because it’s sitting on top of the suspension connected to the wheels. It’s insulated to keep passengers from feeling every impact as it maneuvers over bumps in the road. 

Your Suspension Is Important - Here’s Why

When you talk with a mechanic about your suspension system, in general, it includes:

  • Springs, which control the height and load
  • Shocks, which absorb and dampen the energy your tires transmit as they contact the road

Your car may also have an anti-sway bar to help shift the movement of your wheels as you turn the steering wheel. It stabilizes the car as you turn the steering wheel to move directions. 

Why the suspension system is important

If you were to separate the suspension system from the cabin for a moment, and see the wheels in action as they move down the road, you would see the tires take the brunt of every bump in the road. Small bumps may move the tires vertically. Holes may cause the tires to move and sway. Depending on the size of the imperfection in the road will determine just how much your vehicle’s tires move and sway. 

Without a suspension system, you would feel every one of these imperfections every time you hit one. Your drive would be uncomfortable at best. 

The suspension system works to absorb the energy transferred through the wheels to help your car’s inside cabin stay comfortable as it rides along imperfect roads. Both the shocks and springs play a vital role in this process. The shocks absorb the energy from impact as you travel down the road, while the springs expand to dissipate the energy to prevent your car from bouncing out of control. 

Combined, you get a car that stays safe and remains comfortable no matter where you drive.  

You have more control through steering, and can do so with ease. The tires remain connected with the road for a safer and more stable drive.  With a properly working suspension system, each part will do its job effectively without putting the other components at risk. Meaning a longer life span for your vehicle. 

Signs your shocks and struts need replacing

The words “shocks and struts” are often used reciprocally, but they are two different things. Each wheel has either a shock or a strut, though many vehicles use struts on the front wheels and shocks on the rear. You can consult your owner’s manual for more information on which your vehicle uses. Or look under your car. They are easy to distinguish as long as you know what you’re looking for. 

In general, shocks and struts will need replacing every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. This will change depending on your driving habits. If you frequently drive over rough roads, you will be replacing the parts on your suspension system more frequently. 

Like other parts of your car, shocks and struts don’t fade all at once. Instead, they deteriorate slowly over time. You’ll start noticing signs long before your safety is put at risk. 

There are four main ways your shocks and struts signal it’s time for replacement. 

A bumpy ride

If you’ve started noticing your ride is rougher, it could be time to replace the parts on your suspension system. We’ve often heard drivers say, “it feels like I’m driving a truck.” Even the slightest bump in the road will cause you to sway inside your vehicle. 

Leaking fluid

Shocks and struts use hydraulic fluid to complete the action. If the seal is broken and fluid leaks on the exterior of the shock or strut, it’s a sign of a problem with the suspension system. If a shock doesn’t have enough hydraulic fluid, it won’t be able to absorb impact while you drive. 

Difficulty while driving

Do you notice your vehicle swaying as you take turns? Or nose diving when you hit the brakes? This is a clue the shocks and struts aren’t doing their job efficiently. They aren’t handling the weight distribution as you move through normal driving conditions. And if your car can’t stop as it’s supposed to, it’s never a good sign. 

Tire tread

You can also take a look at the tire tread to determine if your suspension system is off. If you see wavy dips, also known as cupping, in the tire tread, it’s a telltale sign of the tires not completely connecting with the road as you drive. Without the shocks and struts performing their jobs, your wheels might not fully connect with the road, leaving uneven wear marks on the tires. Without proper tread, your tires may not provide thorough handling and stopping power when you need it most. 

Is it time to get your suspension system checked out? 

If you suspect any of these signs are causing a less than stellar drive, it’s time to let a mechanic take a look at the suspension system and ensure it’s in good working condition. It’s what keeps you and your family safe no matter what the road conditions are like on your daily drive. 

When was the last time you scheduled a regular maintenance visit to determine if your car is in good working condition? Do it today. 

What Fluid Stains On Your Driveway Tell You About Your Car

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One of the benefits of continually parking in the same parking spot is you can keep an eye on your car’s performance. 

Notice fluid stains on your driveway? They’re trying to tell you something about your car. 

Today’s modern cars are filled with various fluids to keep it operating well. Even if your car is brand new, you should monitor these fluids regularly to ensure your car remains operational and in good running condition. Noticing a small spot on your driveway early could help you save thousands of dollars on car repair bills down the road. 

When you look at the stains on your driveway, you may notice different colors and textures. There might even be different smells associated with each one. How do you know what fluid is leaking? Is there a way to tell which you should take immediate action with? Read on. 

Motor oil

Motor oil is one of the most common fluids you’ll see on your driveway. It’s also one of the most frequently serviced and replaced fluids you’ll change regularly. When you first notice a fresh oil leak on your driveway, you’ll know it by its reddish-brown color. If you’re not sure if it’s motor oil, touching it with your fingers will reveal a tacky, sticky consistency. Pinpointing where the leak is coming from can be difficult. It may be a worn out gasket, seal, or valve cover. Once you have an oil leak, it’s important to have your car serviced, find the root cause, and fix it before it has more impact on your engine. 

Coolant or antifreeze

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, circulates throughout the system to ensure your engine stays cool as it operates. Coolant comes in a variety of colors; most are pinkish or greenish tints. You can also recognize coolant by its sweet smell, and its thin consistency. Coolant leaks are one of the most common leaks on a car. While most leaks aren’t serious if caught early, ignoring this telltale sign can run the risk of lowering the coolant in the system, which can lead to your car’s engine overheating. Leaks can come from the radiator, reservoir, or the head gasket; it’s important to let a trained professional follow the signs and make adjustments accordingly. Be aware that because of its sweet smell, it can attract kids and animals to it. It’s deadly if ingested. 

What Fluid Stains On Your Driveway Tell You About Your Car

Brake fluid

It’s safe to say that a leak in your brake system isn’t something to ignore. If you notice brake fluid on your driveway, have your car towed and fix it without climbing behind the wheel. Brake fluid is clear or has a yellowish tint. It will feel oily, slicker than motor oil, with a medium thickness if you touch it. You can check the brake fluid reservoir, usually found on the driver’s side underneath the hood, but this is something you should leave to the professionals. Brake fluid controls hydraulic pressure within the brake system. Leaking brake fluid can cause a pressure drop, which could ultimately lead to brake failure. 

Power steering fluid

Power steering fluid has a medium viscosity, and will appear yellowish in color. You may also notice it takes on a mechanical smell. Power steering systems also use hydraulics, to make it easy to turn and control the way your car moves. As you turn the wheel, power steering fluid fills a cylinder in the system, which allows pressure to control the wheel. Leaks can cause power steering fluid to lower the pressure, making your steering wheel harder to turn. 

Transmission fluid

Power steering fluid and transmission fluid are essentially the same things. Both are hydraulic fluids, and in some cases, car manufacturers will use them interchangeably. It’s always best to consult your owner’s manual first before repairs. The biggest difference is transmission fluid contains detergents for cleaning, and friction modifiers to reduce friction. If you have a transmission fluid leak, it will have a reddish color, and be a slippery substance. The problem can arise from several different areas, including a broken seal, a cracked fluid line, or a pan gasket failure. Bringing your vehicle in will allow one of our mechanics to find and fix the problem. 

Windshield washer fluid

Windshield washer fluid might not impact the way your car operates, but not having it can be a hindrance to the way you drive. Try moving down a messy highway after a snowstorm without it. A leak could leave you finding windshield washer fluid on your driveway, sporting a blue, green, or orange color. It’s very thin, feeling almost like water, but has a distinct slightly sweet smell. It can soak into the concrete and disappear quickly because of its consistency, which makes it important to pay attention to what happens underneath your vehicle no matter how long you’re parked. 

How to track fluid levels before you notice them on your driveway

Most drivers are familiar with the 3,000 rule for motor oil. As a rule of thumb, have your vehicle’s oil changed every 3,000 miles to ensure it’s clean and provide optimal coverage for your engine. As long as you keep oil changes on your calendar, and have your car serviced regularly, your chances of seeing oil on the driveway are low. 

You can do so with the other fluids too. 

If you haven’t spent time reading your car’s owner’s manual, now is the time. Take some time to understand the fluids mentioned above, how they impact your vehicle, and when they should be checked to ensure they are still in good working condition. Even lifetime fluids can be compromised; when should you have your car inspected to ensure it’s still operating efficiently? 

The best way to keep your car operating well is to pay attention to what’s happening underneath your vehicle. Check out the driveway from time to time. It’s the best indicator of what’s happening on the inside. It allows you to make repairs quickly, avoiding damage and higher repair bills in the weeks and months to come. 

The Temperatures Are Falling! Is Your Car’s Heater Ready?

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Here in Colorado, summer seems to stick around a little longer in the year. September is beautiful. We can stay outside doing what we love longer, hiking, walking, or biking to enjoy the color all around us. 

Yet there’s a hint of coolness in the air. The temperatures are falling. Is your car’s heater ready for winter? 

The heater isn’t something most of us test until we need it. We get up one morning to find cold temperatures, possibly snow on the ground. Then we turn the heat on and expect it to work, providing us with the heat we need to keep the inside passenger compartment comfortable. 

Where does the warm air come from?

As your car’s engine heats up, it warms up the antifreeze that circulates from the radiator to the engine. Two rubber heater hoses also circulate from the engine to the heater core, which is a small box that sits behind the dashboard. Heated antifreeze moves through one hose into the box, while another takes it back to the engine compartment. 

When you turn the heater on, air blows through this heater core. It’s warmed up, and moves through the vents and into the passenger cabin. Some vehicles work by having a heater valve that controls the flow of antifreeze through the heater core, turning it on or off based on your selection. Other vehicles control the amount of air that flows into the air blend box, and how much is passed directly over the heater core. 

Once you understand how heat moves from the engine compartment into your passenger area, it’s easier to understand how the amount of heat you have is a telltale sign of potential problems underneath the hood. If a problem exists with the radiator, for instance, it can also impact the way the heater core works. If you have an antifreeze leak, it can lower the quality of coolant in the system, which can clog up the flow from the radiator and thermostat, which causes the thermostat to fail, and so on. 

The problem may be with your cooling system

Think of antifreeze (coolant) as the lifeblood of your car’s engine. If it’s not in optimal condition, it can’t perform its job. Antifreeze is designed to regulate the temperature inside the engine compartment, as well as keep it safe from freezing-cold temperatures. If antifreeze is in good condition, it circulates properly, the engine functions, and you can control the inside cabin to your liking. The heater relies on the circulation of antifreeze to ensure proper temperatures, and to be able to release as much heat as you desire into the cabin. If the cooling system isn’t working well, then your vents won’t blow warm air. 

The Temperatures Are Falling! Is Your Car’s Heater Ready?

A leaking heater core can start small and grow exponentially in short order. You may first notice an antifreeze leak by a sweet smell coming from your vents. You can’t miss the sweetness. It may also be combined with vapor coming out the vents, causing a buildup of film on the inside of the windows. This is a hazardous material, so it’s important to get it fixed immediately. Another sign may be a leak on your driveway. Depending on which antifreeze you use, it could have a pinkish or greenish tint. A leak is a clear indicator your car doesn’t have the proper amount of coolant inside the system. Without fixing it, your vehicle is in danger of overheating, which almost always means your car will break down. 

Listen for the blower

When you turn on the heating system, you have the ability to set it at different levels, depending on how warm you choose to make the inside air. The blower is designed to pump conditioned air through the vents at varying speeds. Over time, this electric blower motor can wear out, which weakens its ability to send air flow into the interior cabin. As temperatures start to dip, it’s a good idea to test out the blower motor before you need heat. As you drive around, test out the varying levels, from low to high. Listen for unusual noises that could indicate something is wrong with the blower. Clunking, grinding, squealing, or metal-on-metal sounds are all indicators of a problem with the blower motor. This gives you ample time to get it fixed before the first snowstorm of the season arrives. 

Your air conditioner is also an indicator

If you’ve ever thought your heating and cooling system were two separate entities, think again. Your car’s heating system actually uses the air conditioner to help dry out moist air, which is needed to help you defrost your windshield and side windows before and as you drive. You might not think to turn on your air conditioning system when it’s already below freezing outside, but a functioning air conditioning unit is integral for driving in Colorado weather. 

Have you noticed problems with the way your air conditioner kept you cool in this unusually good fall weather? Has it been more difficult keeping the interior cabin properly conditioned as the temperatures continue to climb outside? That’s your car’s way of telling you to pull in for a little maintenance before the winter begins. A functioning air conditioner is the only way to survive the winter drive. 

Are you ready for another Colorado winter? 

The good news is that it’s easy to ensure your car heater is in good working condition and ready for another Colorado winter. Periodic maintenance of your cooling system will ensure you can keep the interior of your car at whatever temperature you desire, while knowing at the same time your engine is running optimally too. 

Auto manufacturers recommend changing your coolant after 4 years or 60,000 miles, and every 2 years or 30,000 miles after that. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for complete advice based on your make and model. 

This ensures your coolant is powerful enough to keep your engine system working as designed, and gives mechanics a chance to repair any leaks and inspect the various components for signs of breakdown. 

Is your car heater ready for winter? 

What Are All-Weather Tires and Do They Work In Colorado?

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It can easily reach into the 100s in July, and dip down below zero in January. But come April and October, you can easily witness all four seasons in just a few hours of time. 

That makes it difficult to know what to plan for when you head out the door in the morning. It also makes it difficult to know what kind of weather your vehicle will face on the drive in. 

Should you have plenty of windshield washer fluid for splashback? Check. 

Should you ensure your brakes are always in good condition to handle everything from dry to icy conditions? Add a check there too. 

But when it comes to what tires to put on your vehicle, it’s hard to know what to do. Summer tires will provide good traction on the hot pavement the summer brings. Winter tires will help with traction no matter how much snow or ice is on the road. But changing tires can be difficult at best. And at what point do you make the change?

Maybe an all-weather tire makes more sense. 

What are all-weather tires?

As the name implies, all-weather tires are designed to offer you traction and stability in all kinds of driving conditions. The tread is created to handle summertime heat along with slushy, icy, snowy roads. The specialized rubber used to create the tires provides flexibility in a variety of driving conditions. Like when you move from sunny, warm weather in the morning, to icy, snow-packed roads by the evening commute. 

Don’t mistake all-weather tires for all-season tires. The name may be similar, but their performance isn’t. Where all-weather tires are designed to handle different road conditions, all-season tires are designed to function in all four seasons. They provide stability to handle the average of each season, meaning some rain, and very light snow. 

What Are All-Weather Tires and Do They Work In Colorado?

All-weather are designed with unique tread perfect for gripping the road no matter what conditions exist. Hot pavement, wet roads, or snowy, winter conditions can all be navigated well with all-weather tires. They have deep grooves which help reduce hydroplaning when the roads are wet, plus ample flexibility for handling when the snow starts to fall. 

The pros of all-weather tires

When you are ready to purchase a new set of tires, it’s important to consider your drive before you make your final selection. Do you drive dozens of miles per day? Is mountain driving a part of your daily commute? Do you navigate dirt roads and back country driving? Or is everything a few minutes from your urban home?

All-weather tires have improved traction on most road surfaces. All-weather are designed moving across different types of terrain at different times of the year. They provide good traction in all driving conditions here in the Denver Metro area. 

All-weather tires provide a year-round solution. If you’re tired of changing from summer to winter tires, storing them, and wondering when to change, all-weather may be the perfect choice for you. 

All-weather tires provide decent solutions on ice and snow. If you commute a few miles to work each day, relying on snowplows to help clear the roads, all-weather tires can be a viable solution. They handle decently on snow and icy roads.

Investing in all-weather tires can also save you money over buying both summer and winter tires. This saves you from bringing your car in twice per year for switching them out, and storing them while they aren’t in use. 

The cons of all-weather tires

This is all about expectations. It’s about knowing what you demand from your driving experience. 

If you want the ultimate control for driving in snowy conditions, you’ll never beat snow tires. All-weather tires offer flexibility to help you move through the different road conditions Colorado faces each year, but nothing will ever compare to what true snow tires offer. All-weather will get stiff in extreme cold, and will reduce traction between you and the road. This comes down to where you live and drive – how much traction do you really need each day? 

All-weather will also have delayed reaction on icy roads when compared with snow tires. They may be a step up from summer tires and all-season tires, yet still fall below the ability of snow tires. 

All-weather tires will also be a little more difficult to drive with in deep snow. If you tackle the deep stuff regularly, nothing will handle better than snow tires designed for winter driving conditions. 

Which are the best tires for you? 

Before you make your final decision, ask yourself a few questions. 

  • What are my daily driving conditions like? 
  • Do I spend more time driving in certain conditions than others?
  • Do I spend more time in urban or rural driving conditions?
  • Do I have the room to store tires? 
  • What’s best to work with the car I drive?
  • What kind of driver am I?

Your tires are an important part of your vehicle’s braking system. To ensure they provide good traction and help you stay safe year-round, select the right tires for you. 

Are all-weather tires a viable option for some Colorado drivers? You bet. Stop by today. We’ll help you make the right choice, and help keep your vehicle in good driving condition no matter what the weather is like outside. 

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