Auto Repair Blog | Express Car Care Denver

Wheel Alignment or Tire Balancing, What Your Car Needs

March 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When you drive with a wheel problem, you’ll feel it immediately in the way your car moves. What’s causing it may be a bit more challenging to figure out.

Is it a problem with wheel alignment? Do your tires need balancing? Or is it something else?

What is wheel alignment

Wheel alignment is sometimes referred to as tire alignment or front-end alignment. It’s a service that adjusts the angle of your vehicle’s wheels to put them in proper position based on manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s an adjustment of the car’s suspension system, not the tires or wheels themselves.

Wheel alignment keeps your car from veering to the right or left as you drive. It can improve the handling of your vehicle, and makes your car safer to drive.

As a part of a wheel alignment service, a technician checks several things to ensure drivability. They check the toe, camber, and caster, all of which impact proper alignment. They’ll also look at tire tread to ensure the tires are connecting properly with the road.

Typically, manufacturers recommend having a wheel alignment every 10,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines. You should also have a wheel alignment performed if you notice your:

Vehicle pulls to either the left or right while driving
Wheels don’t point straight ahead when stationary
Tires have noticeable tread wear
Car has been damaged in an accident or collision

What is tire balancing

Think of what your tires go through as you drive around each day. They take corners. The skid to a stop. They hit potholes and bumps. They swerve to miss what’s lying on the road. They navigate puddles, driving rain, slush, and snow. Eventually, all of that impacts your tires.

Wheel Alignment or Tire Balancing, What Your Car Needs

Yes, the tread on your tires will eventually wear away, requiring you to purchase new tires. But long before that, your tires may settle, no longer connecting properly with the road.

Tire balancing is also referred to frequently as wheel balancing. As tire tread wears down, it can cause the weight around the tire to change. This leads to an imbalance that can increase tread wear, lead to vibration, cause damage to the suspension system, or a number of other problems.

As a part of tire balancing, your tires and wheels are mounted onto a tire balancing machine. This calibrated balancer tests both moving and non-moving tire balance, and adjusts the tires to proper balance. It adds tire weights to achieve a properly balanced tire and wheel assembly.

Typically, tire balancing is performed along with tire rotations. Most manufacturers suggest both services take place every 5-6,000 miles, or 6 months, whichever comes first. You should also have your tires balanced if you notice:

Excessive vibration in the steering wheel as you drive
Floorboard vibration
Uneven tire wear
A flat tire

People think the only way for tires to move out of balance is to hit something in the road. It doesn’t take a sharp object or a large bump to alter how your vehicle drives. If you leave your vehicle sitting for long periods of time without moving it, the tires can develop flat spots that can cause an imbalance.

How do you know if you need an alignment or a balance?

Tire balancing and wheel alignment often occur at the same time, but the two shouldn’t be confused for the same thing. They are two separate services, each with its own benefits to keep your car running smoothly. And reducing your risk while driving down the road.

One of the biggest benefits of tire balancing is that it prevents premature tire tread wear. If you want to get the most mileage possible from your tires, scheduling routine tire balancing should be a part of your regular maintenance. Keeping your tires balance will help their performance as well as optimize your gas mileage.

Wheel alignment improves vehicle handling, fuel efficiency, and extends your tires’ life. Left untreated, you’ll have steering and suspension problems, potentially damaging components enough for repair work or even replacement. You can also shorten a tire’s life by thousands of miles.

If you notice a vibration in the steering wheel or on the floorboard, it’s a tire balance issue.

If your vehicle pulls to one side, your steering wheel sits crooked, or you have trouble driving straight without a tight grip on the steering wheel, it’s an alignment issue.

If you notice any problem with either balancing or alignment issues, don’t delay. Schedule an inspection as soon as possible to bring your vehicle back into good working condition.

Tire balancing doesn’t take very long; one to two hours and you’ll be back on the road. It depends on the issues your car has experienced. Hitting a pothole may cause more imbalance than working with installing new tires.

Wheel alignment is also a fairly quick service that generally takes one to two hours. The more wear and tear or damage to the suspension system will require more time for correction. That’s just one of the reasons it’s better to bring your vehicle in quickly; labor costs are kept to a minimum if the task is easier to fix.

Four tires … One vehicle

If you notice damage to one of your tires, why can’t you fix just the one? The easiest answer is: all four tires are attached to one vehicle. It takes four tires to control your vehicle on the open road, and carry you from point A to point B. If one tire is out of balance, there’s a good chance it’s impacting the others too.

To ensure your tires have a full life, and your car drives safely no matter where you go, it’s a good idea to have all four rotated and balanced regularly. It’s the easiest way to ensure your safety on the road.

Was The Winter Hard On Your Brakes? Cold Weather Brake Problems

March 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Cold weather and Colorado go hand in hand.

While we love skiing, the occasional blizzard, and days off from work and school, sometimes the cold weather can be a bit challenging. Heading out to a car that won’t start can be a bit frustrating. Finding out your brakes aren’t working can be dangerous at best.

Brakes are one of the most critical systems of today’s modern cars. Have you ever noticed changes in how your car brakes on the coldest days of the year? You’re not alone. We are often flooded with calls when the temperatures dip to zero and below.

Cold weather brake problems are different from issues you may experience at other times of the year. While cold weather doesn’t directly impact your brake system the same as a car battery, it can change how your car handles and moves. Being aware of the impact cold weather has on brakes will keep you safe no matter what the thermometer reads when you head out into the world.

Cold weather may impact the brake lines

What keeps your brakes in good working condition is the brake fluid. The freezing point of brake fluid is -40 degrees Fahrenheit, but the freezing point isn’t an all-or-nothing process. Instead, brake fluid starts to congeal the colder it gets. And as the brake fluid thickens, you’ll notice it in the way your car handles.

Was The Winter Hard On Your Brakes? Cold Weather Brake Problems

You might be thinking that the Front Range never sees -40 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures. Yet we do see the temperatures creep well below zero almost every winter season.

If your brake fluid is fresh and in top shape, it will continue to work fine as the temperatures drop. But if you don’t keep your brakes well maintained, that could be a problem.

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Even though the braking system is mostly airtight, the brake fluid will still come in contact with air and moisture. And when there is moisture in the brake lines, even 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be a problem.

Studies show that up to one in five cars is driving around with water in the brake line. If you haven’t had your vehicle inspected, or asked about having your brake lines flushed in a while, it could present a problem on the next bitter cold day.

Cold weather could actually cause too much heat

Sounds counterintuitive, doesn’t it? How could cold weather cause too much heat?

When ice, snow, and all that comes with winter driving impacts your brake pads, you’ll start applying more pressure to the brake pedal every time you slow down or come to a stop. More pressure means more action in the braking system. And that can cause it to get very hot. Too much heat and it causes the entire braking system to overheat.

While your brake system is designed to withstand intense amounts of heat, everything has a breaking point. As the brake pads wear down, the responsiveness wanes, and you might start hearing funny squealing sounds.

Regular inspections will ensure that every point in your braking system is operating at maximum capacity. You can also change your driving patterns so you’re not riding the brakes. Give yourself plenty of room between you and the car in front of you, so you’re not tapping or slamming on the brakes.

Cold weather can impact the undercarriage

Colorado driving is a consistent challenge of navigating whatever Mother Nature has to dish out. When ice or snow is in the forecast, the city moves into action, adding things like mag-chloride to the streets, and sanding and adding de-icer to slippery spots to help keep you safe.

All of that takes its toll on your undercarriage.

It builds up in every nook and cranny it can find. All of those chemicals can accelerate rust and corrosion, damaging individual parts and components.

The most obvious signs come in the form of rust. You may see evidence if you perform a visual check. If you don’t clean the chemicals away shortly after they are applied, they can continue to build (and continue to damage) on every part underneath your vehicle. It can impact your braking ability, the way your emergency brake works, cause parts to rattle and fall off, and decrease the functionality of your vehicle.

On those 70 degree days that fall in between storms, it’s a good idea to head to your local car wash and give the undercarriage a good cleaning. Regular inspections are also a good way for allowing a mechanic to take a look underneath and ensure every part is still in good working condition.

Has winter weather impacted your brake system?

March is the snowiest month in Colorado. Here along the Front Range, snow is possible almost every month of the year. And when you take a ride into the mountains, road conditions can change quite rapidly.

One of the most important systems on your vehicle is the brakes. If it’s been a while since you’ve had them checked, now may be the time.

A harsh winter can lead to car problems you might not notice until they show up in a big way. Preventative maintenance is the easiest way to ensure you and your passengers stay safe.

The next time you’re out driving, pay attention to what your car is trying to tell you. Does it squeal, squeak, or bang? Do you sense your brakes take a little longer to engage? Do you notice a funny smell, or see potential problems as you walk around your car? Warning signs are there for a reason. They’re designed to give you a chance to bring your car in before bigger problems arise.

Whether you head to the hills for ski weekends, or simply drive to work every day, the Colorado winters can do a lot of damage to your vehicle.

Make today the day you fight back against everything this winter dished out. Cold weather can impact your brake system in harmful ways. An inspection will ensure it’s still driving well.

How Auto Mechanics Are Changing

March 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

What car are you driving today? Does it run on gasoline? Is it a hybrid? Or electric?

Driving down the street shows just how far we’ve come in a short period of time. The hybrid car market is on track to grow at approximately 9 percent per year over the next few years. The electric car market has exceeded expectations, increasing 67 percent from 2019 to 2020.

Cars are changing. That also ensures that auto mechanics are changing too.

But what does that look like? Will you still be using mechanics in a similar fashion in the future?

Auto mechanics are changing. What does that mean for you?

Cars today

All you have to do is look in your own driveway or garage to see how cars are changing. You may have a gasoline-driven vehicle several years old, sitting next to a hybrid that gives you better gas mileage and is more efficient.

That’s representative of drivers all across America today.

Research shows more than 76 million vehicles on the road today are more than 16 years old. Thanks to technology, better mechanics, and economic considerations, cars over 12 years old are expected to grow as much as 12 percent per year. In the past decade, we’ve increased how long we own a car by 60 percent.

Hybrids and electric cars may be our future, but for now, we’re driving our cars longer than ever before.

Leasing or buying – a huge difference

Leasing is becoming a popular choice as cars increase in price. That means many drivers are out there swapping out their vehicles every few years.

That may seem like an easy way to move gasoline-based vehicles out and hybrid and electric vehicles in, but eventually, we’ll have a lot of older vehicles in all classes of cars.

Older cars run beyond their warranty. But they still have life left for the driver. That’s when auto mechanics will really change. Suddenly, we’ll have cars on the road – gasoline, hybrid, and electric – and they will all require maintenance to keep them running efficiently for the life of the vehicle.

Auto mechanics will be highly skilled as they move from vehicle to vehicle, keeping them in good operating condition. Not only will they be skilled with traditional mechanics, but they will also be skilled in electronics. That’s where independent shops will thrive as they continue to hone their skills to fix the problems associated with aging auto markets.

Auto parts

Have you faced this scenario? Your car isn’t operating correctly. It makes a noise, or you notice a smell. You bring it in for repair.

After a thorough diagnostics test, it’s determined one of the systems needs a new part. They order it … and you wait. Increasingly, you may have had to wait days for a part to be shipped in from somewhere else. It takes time for the part to be delivered, and more time for the part to be installed.

One of the advantages of having a standard car with an equally common problem is the abundance of parts. You can find them everywhere.

With so few hybrids and electric vehicles on the market, finding specific parts can be challenging at best.

As cars grow in popularity and we start honing in on simplifying how different systems work, even parts on hybrids and electric vehicles will become more commonplace. Especially for independent shops, they can be very specific in the services they provide, and be ready to make the necessary repairs quickly when you drive in.

That saves you time and money in the long run.

The future of auto repair

You only have to step into an auto mechanic shop today to see the changes that have taken place over the past few years. It’s more about diagnostics and technology than good old-fashioned “grease monkey” discovery.

The world is being automated right before our eyes. Why should we expect any difference within the automotive repair industry? Yes, some parts and services of the auto mechanics niche will disappear forever – hello, buggy whips. But new parts and services will take their place.

As we build more sophistication into every car we develop, that means an increase in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and technology. All of this operates with sensors and other sophisticated equipment. When something goes wrong, it will be the auto mechanic of the future that steps in and makes the repair.

There will also be distinctions between individual and commercial classifications. As we step into autonomous transportation, there will be even more need for regular maintenance to ensure all vehicles on the road stay in good working condition. To ensure vehicles operate well to avoid error and reduce driver error, it will be imperative that every technical part on a vehicle is calibrated and working well.

That requires a skilled auto mechanic to ensure it’s fully operational.

Different time. Different vehicle. Different skills.

Auto mechanics are changing

But the need will never disappear.

Just like the Ford Model T required a specific type of auto mechanic, so to will the cars of tomorrow.

No matter how many technological advancements we make, or how many changes we make to the vehicles we drive, there will always be a need to maintain them, and keep them functioning at their best.

Every part, component, electrical connection, or mechanical device will wear down over time.

It’s an auto mechanics’ job to understand each system thoroughly, and be able to fix it when it needs to be updated.

The complexity of the systems are changing. An auto mechanic’s job will change too.

It won’t decrease the need for auto mechanics. It simply changes the services they provide.

What matters most is the relationship you develop, and the trust you place in ensuring they do a top-quality job for you.

Are you happy with the auto mechanic who services your vehicle?

How Long Can You Drive With Worn Brake Pads?

March 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Brake pads are one of the most critical pieces of equipment built into your car. If your brake pads aren’t working, you won’t be able to slow the car to a stop, or keep it under control as you drive.

Worn brake pads won’t handle the way new brake pads do. That’s why manufacturers build in warning signals to alert you to the fact that your brake pads are failing. There’s no mistaking the high pitched squeal brake pads make at the end-of-life when you press down on the brake pedal and the metal of the brake pad connects with the metal of the brake rotor.

You’ll notice it. And so will everyone else around you.

Brake pads last somewhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Check with your owner’s manual for specifics.

But even with those general guidelines in place, brake pad life changes based on your driving patterns. There are many things you do that will ultimately determine how long your brake pads will last.

What effects brake pad wear

Driving habits

Your daily commute is the biggest indicator of how well your brake pads will handle over time. Are you an aggressive driver? Do you ride the brakes? Do you pounce on the brake pedal reacting to the drivers around you? Is your terrain flat, or do you drive over a variety of steep grades? Do you coast to a stop, or slam on the brakes? Brake pads will wear differently depending on your approach. Brake pads are all about safety – abrupt stops are sometimes necessary. But smoothing out your normal driving patterns will ensure a long life for your brake pads.

How Long Can You Drive With Worn Brake Pads?

Vehicle weight

Cars are different from trucks. A heavier vehicle will require more braking action to come to a complete stop. It also depends on how loaded your vehicle is. Many drivers across Colorado keep items from their active lifestyle inside their vehicles at all times. Bike racks. Cargo toppers. Sports equipment in the back. All of that requires more action to bring the car to a stop. Your brakes will also have more stress if you regularly pull campers or trailers, especially going up and down the mountain. The more stress your brake pads endure, the shorter lifespan they will have.

Driving environment

We have a variety of driving conditions here along the Front Range. Is your driving primarily urban, or do you regularly take dirt roads? Do you live in the city, or high up in the mountains? Steep elevations impact driving differently than living out on the plains. Your brakes will also endure changing weather conditions, sometimes all in the same day. Temperatures rising into the three digits. Ice and snow making hazardous driving conditions. All of that impacts how often you rely on your brakes for slowing and stopping.

Brake materials

Not all brake pads are alike. Brake pads are created from several different compounds to match different driving needs. Harder materials work better when performance is required. Softer materials work better at lower speeds, such as when you primarily drive in city conditions. Steel or metal brake pads are the most common materials, and work well in average driving conditions. Carbon-ceramic brakes last longer than their metal counterparts, but are more expensive and are primarily for better performance. Your vehicle’s manufacturer has recommendations for which brake pads are best for your driving conditions. Or talk with one of our technicians for more information.

What happens if you keep driving on worn brake pads?

Have you reached a point where you know you’ll have to replace your brake pads soon, but you’re trying to get the most life out of them? Several things can happen if you keep driving on worn brake pads.

Your car will need more space to slow and stop

Worn down brake pads won’t be as functional as new brake pads. That means your vehicle will require more surface area to slow and come to a stop. Response time can change rapidly as your brake pads wear, especially if they wear unevenly. If it feels like it takes more force from you stepping on the brake pedal, it’s a good indicator there are problems with your brake pads.

Your car vibrates as you brake

When brake pads work well, you’ll come to a smooth stop. As they wear down, it adds pressure to their ability to slow and stop. Especially if they wear unevenly, you’ll start to notice this in the stopping action. You’ll be able to feel the vibrations throughout the car.

Other parts can be impacted

It’s not just your brake pads that are at risk. The more worn they become, the more at-risk other parts on your vehicle are too. Brake pads are part of an intricate system where if one component is damaged, it can impact many others too. If brake pads wear past the wear mark, they can damage the brake rotors. The metal of the brake pad grinds into the rotors every time you push down on the brake pedal. The heat from this pressure squeezes against the rotor and can warp or crack it over time. If your car needs greater force to come to a stop, this will also impact your tires. Constant slamming on the brakes causes your tires to wear unevenly, wearing down before their estimated lifespan. All of this can add up to more component replacement, making your repair costs rise.

How long can you drive on worn brake pads?

Brake pads are designed to last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. How many your car gets will be determined by your day to day driving conditions.

But once you detect your brake pads are no longer working as designed, what happens to the rest of your vehicle largely depends on your actions.

Can you drive on worn brake pads? Sure. For a while. But it will quickly materialize into many other problems, require more repair work, and potentially put you and those around you at risk.

Is it time for new brake pads for your vehicle?

Does Your Car Really Need a Power Steering Flush?

February 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever brought your car in for something simple – an oil change – and the mechanic approaches you with a list of potential parts and services it needs to run properly?

It can be confusing at best.

Does your car need fluid flushes or full detailing to ensure an efficient ride? Or is this just a way for the mechanic to bring in extra money?

We get it. It seems as if every company is fighting for ways to add on sales, and bring in extra money.

And flushes can be confusing. Let’s take a power steering flush as an example. You know your car uses power steering to make it easy to drive. You may have a general understanding of mechanics, knowing it takes power steering fluid to ensure movement as you go. How does the fluid get there? And will it wear down? How do you know?

Great questions! Let’s find out.

Start with understanding the power steering system

Power steering is a system that uses engine power to control the front wheels effortlessly. It makes it easy to maneuver at lower speeds, making it easy to take tight corners, and turn into spaces like parking spots and enter garages. Without it, you’d need a lot more force to keep control over your vehicle, especially as you turn and move in different directions.

Today’s vehicles use one of three power steering systems: hydraulic, electric, or hybrid electro-hydraulic. Each utilizes the same function, even if they approach it differently.

Does Your Car Really Need a Power Steering Flush?

The oldest – hydraulic power steering – has been assisting drivers for more than 50 years. It utilizes a hydraulic pump assembly that pushes transmission fluid into the steering assembly, which aids in controlling the tires. The pump draws power from the engine to perform its work. Because it remains operational while the vehicle is running, it exerts wasted energy while moving on a straight stretch of road.

Hydraulic power steering relies on several different types of power steering fluid.

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Synthetic power steering fluid – these are engineered for specific types of cars
Non-synthetic power steering fluid – mineral fluid that often is used in place of ATF

Like other fluid types, it’s important to know which your car accepts to reduce the chance of damage, and give your car what it was designed with.

Electric power steering (EPS) is becoming the new norm for today’s vehicles. Instead of a hydraulic pump, the gear connects to an electric motor and a control module, which uses sensors to determine how much assistance is needed to the steering system while you drive.

Electro-Hydraulic steering is a hybrid of the two. It provides the smooth feel of a hydraulic system, with the energy draw of the electric system. It improves fuel economy as the pump only operates when you need assistance. This is most common in heavy commercial vehicles, though some car manufacturers install them because of the benefits.

My car uses power steering fluid – do I need a flush?

If you use hydraulic power steering fluid, you may wish to speak with a mechanic about the benefits of having the steering pump flushed and filled with fresh fluid. It pays to know what your manufacturer suggests, as well as understand what your mechanic finds to make this suggestion.

While it isn’t a common maintenance item, it isn’t something you can ignore. Paying attention to what’s happening under the hood can give you assurance everything is in good working condition.

Power steering fluid is red, and is often similar in color to coolant (if your coolant is red.) It can turn a deeper shade over time. Color alone isn’t a sign that something is wrong. It takes further investigation.

If you notice a leak, find out where it’s coming from. Over time, seals, o-rings, and other parts can deteriorate and result in a leak. Fluid underneath your car in conjunction with problems with your power steering could be an indicator it’s time for a power steering flush and repair work.

Many reservoirs are installed with see-through plastic so you can track how much fluid you have, and check to ensure it’s not running low. Your owner’s manual will guide you to where it’s located on your vehicle.

What a power steering flush will do for your vehicle

Is a power steering flush really needed? There are a few important things this service can provide you with.

Better steering – if you notice your driving is becoming more difficult, it may be a sign of compromised power steering fluid. New fluid will get rid of the grime, and make your drive that much safer.
Protects the pump – fluid is the life-blood to any major component. Replacing power steering fluid is much less expensive than risking damage to larger items like the power steering pump.
It flushes harmful contaminants – driving here in Colorado means you’re subjected to everything on the road. Mag-chloride and salt in the winter, mud and other debris in the summer as the rains set in. flushing the system pushes these harmful contaminants out.
Peace of mind – keeping the maintenance items recommended in your owner’s manual on your calendar can give you peace of mind over time. Instead of waiting for a major breakdown, being proactive can keep your vehicle in the best working condition possible.

Is it time for a power steering flush?

Before you head out on your next road trip, or move into a new season, head in for an inspection to keep your vehicle operating well.

By working with our mechanics, we can help you determine how to keep your car in good working condition.

Schedule your visit today.

Does Changing a Cabin Air Filter Really Make a Difference?

February 24, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Cars provide an invaluable service. They:

Get us from point A to point B each day
Shelter us from the heat and cold
Allow us to travel long distances comfortably
Give us easy ways to transport things we need
Keep us safe from harm

For all those reasons and more, it’s important to keep your vehicle in good working condition.

When was the last time you thought about checking your vehicle’s filters?

While the oil filter may have been changed the last time you stopped in for an oil change, when was the last time you checked your cabin air filter?

What’s a cabin air filter?

When it comes to filters, your car has several to keep it operating well. They include:

Air filter – prevents harmful debris, dirt, and contaminants from entering your engine
Oil filter – removes contaminants from your car’s motor oil
Cabin air filter – prevents dust, pollen, dirt, and other pollutants from entering your vehicle through the cooling and heating vents

The cabin air filter is the one most vehicle owners miss because they often don’t know it exists. A cabin air filter is specifically designed to help filter the air supply inside your vehicle, creating a cleaner environment while you ride in your car. As you exhale, it takes in the air supply and moves it through the filter. As air comes in from the outside, it filters out pollen and dust to prevent further aggravation for allergy and hayfever sufferers.

Like other filters, over time, cabin air filters can become dirty and clogged with harmful contaminants and debris. They no longer serve their purpose if they can’t filter air through the filter, and instead let the pollutants and contaminants back into the air supply.

Does Changing a Cabin Air Filter Really Make a Difference?

If you notice a bad smell coming from the vents as you use heat or air conditioning, there’s a good chance it’s time to replace your cabin air filter.

When should I replace a cabin air filter?

While a cabin air filter might not need replacing as frequently as an oil filter, it’s still a good idea to keep it on a schedule and change it often.

Take a look at your owner’s manual. It will give you an idea of manufacturer’s guidelines, and when your car’s designer suggests you change out the cabin air filter. Typically you’ll find that manufacturers recommend replacing it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or so.

Timing may be your starting point, but you should also factor in how you drive. Those who drive in urban, congested areas regularly will need to replace the filters more often. If you live in a rural location and dirt roads are a part of your daily drive, the filter may clog with dust and debris faster than by taking paved roads.

Will a dirty cabin air filter show signs of wear?

Like other parts of your vehicle, the cabin air filter doesn’t wear down in an instant. Instead, it will start to provide you with indicators that its clogging and no longer doing it’s job. You may notice:

Reduced air flow – when you crank the heat or air conditioning up too high and it still doesn’t seem to get the job done, it may be an indicator of a clogged cabin air filter.
A whistling sound – the higher speed you use for controlling the air supply, the higher the whistling sound coming from the cabin air intake ducts.
A distinct musty odor – you can’t ignore the foul smell that comes every time you turn your vents on. It may even worsen over time if you continue to ignore the problem.
Louder noises while the heating or cooling system is running – your heater and air conditioner have to work harder to meet the demands of the system. It’s trying – and you’ll hear it working. The noise will increase until the entire system is well maintained.
Fog on the insides of your windows – if the cabin air filter is allowing pollutants and contaminants to blow out into the air supply, some of the debris may land on your windows and create a fog. This isn’t moisture, it’s actually particles landing on your window, and preventing you from seeing clearly.

What can you expect from a new, clean cabin air filter?

The good news is that replacing an old cabin air filter with a new one, it will help your car run better. A well maintained vehicle won’t leave you stranded when you least expect it. It will also give you many more years of service, and be a reliable addition to your lifestyle.

Changing out your cabin air filter will give you:

Better performance – air filtration is a crucial part of overall vehicle maintenance. Your car needs two things to operate efficiently – air and fuel. A clean air supply makes every aspect of your vehicle’s operational systems more effective.
Better air supply – how much time do you spend inside your vehicle? According to the EPA, people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, where concentrations of some pollutants have been shown to be as much as five times greater than outdoors. Imagine how many contaminants you’re breathing in if you spend an hour or two each day tucked away inside your vehicle?
Better reliability – how often do you use your heater or air conditioner? Trick question, because you might always have one or the other on, keeping your vehicle at your desired temperature. Every time you operate the heating and cooling system, it depends on the motor for energy. If it isn’t efficient, it requires more power from the engine. That puts undue stress on your engine, meaning it might need repair or even replacement sooner rather than later.

Is it time to replace your cabin air filter?

If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your cabin air filter, now may be the perfect time. Be prepared for springtime pollen season by giving your ventilation system a little TLC.

Changing out the cabin air filter will improve air quality and prevent allergy problems by filtering out pollen and mold spores, dirt, and other pollutants.

It’s one of the easiest ways to ensure your vehicle remains well maintained.

Does Your Car Really Need a Radiator Flush?

February 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Denver is breaking temperature records every single year. It hit 102 in July 2021, 103 in July 2016, and 104 in June 2018. Will we see 105 this year?

When the temperatures creep upwards, it’s important to ensure your car is ready for the heat. Car’s today are built with an internal system to monitor heat and protect the engine. The engine uses antifreeze to keep your engine running, and the entire system cool.

Is it running properly? Is it time for a radiator flush (also known as a coolant flush)?

It’s essential to keep your vehicle’s coolant fresh by following manufacturer’s guidelines. Ready to learn more?

What a vehicle’s cooling system does

If you’ve ever stood near the hood of your vehicle after driving on the highway for a while, you know how much heat is produced underneath the hood. Imagine the parts in action as you fly down the highway at 50, 60, even 70 miles an hour or more. All of that action creates a tremendous amount of heat.

While the components of a vehicle are created for intense heat, car designers also build in a cooling system to counterbalance the heat, and make sure every part in the system remains in good working condition as you drive.

If your vehicle didn’t have an effective cooling system, the engine would heat up and stop functioning in a matter of minutes.

It’s equally important to keep in mind that the cooling system has a job to perform year-round. It works hard to protect the engine as temperatures soar over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as safeguard the engine when temperatures fall below zero.

Most engines today use a liquid cooling system that works by passing liquid continually through the engine block. Coolant, or antifreeze, is pushed through the engine via the water pump, absorbing heat as it moves through the passages.

Does Your Car Really Need a Radiator Flush?

As the liquid leaves the engine, it travels to the radiator where it is cooled by an air stream entering through the grill of the car. It cools enough inside the radiator to return once again into the engine, pick up heat, and repeat the process again.

A thermostat is located between the engine and the radiator to monitor the coolant’s temperature. If the coolant is above a certain temperature, it flows into the radiator to cool. If it’s below, it circulates back into the engine.

This coolant continues to circulate throughout its life, heating and cooling to protect the internal components of the engine compartment. Coolant, or antifreeze, is composed of ethylene glycol, designed to withstand temperatures tens of degrees below zero, and engine temperatures reaching 250 degrees or above. For most climates, a concentration of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water is sufficient to get the job done. It’s highly poisonous to humans and animals, so keeping it away from both is important. Its slightly sweet fragrance can attract animals and children; take appropriate protection measures.

Why a radiator flush is needed

Like other fluids in your vehicle, coolant is designed to run nonstop while the engine is operational. Radiator fluid is a protection device, designed to heat and cool as it flows through the system, keeping the components clean and running to do their job well.

Over time, coolant can start to pick up dirt, debris, and other contaminants that build up in the system. This can lead to corrosion, scaling, rust, or other potential problems that you do not want in your engine or radiator.

A radiator flush solves this problem. It’s designed to keep the entire cooling system in pristine shape. Think of it as a blood transfusion of the cooling system.

A radiator flush forces several gallons of cleaner, water, and coolant through the system, eliminating contaminants or build-ups that may have been deposited since the last flush.

Simply draining the radiator doesn’t do a proper job of removing contaminants. Trace debris may still be stuck inside the system, attached to the various components. By flushing the system, you remove these deposits and create a clean system once again.

A radiator flush is also designed to repair and protect the various components that may have weakened with age. When you use the right additives and perform a radiator flush as suggested by your car’s manufacturer, it can lubricate the various parts, lengthen the life of the water pump, and help prevent future corrosion before it starts.

Is it time for a radiator flush?

As a general rule of thumb, most manufacturers recommend having a radiator flush performed every 30,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Of course, your manufacturer knows best based on how the system was designed. Follow their suggestions to ensure a long life.

Driving conditions can also impact expectations. Driving up and down the mountain each day can add to the stress of the coolant system. Pulling heavy loads continually can also impact the system. You know your driving conditions best. If you feel your car could benefit from a radiator flush, erring on the side of caution is always best.

Your vehicle will also give you a sign if it’s time for a radiator flush:

You notice a leak by way of a puddle of coolant underneath your car
You notice a knocking sound in the engine compartment as you driv
Your car starts to overheat
You notice visible debris in the coolant
Steam or an odd smell coming from underneath the hood

What happens if you don’t flush the radiator

Is a radiator flush really necessary?

When there is a problem inside the cooling system, you’ll notice any one of the symptoms from above. It can start in the form of a leak, migrate to a knocking sound in the engine, and eventually cause your engine to overheat. The problems won’t go away if you don’t take care of the problem.

If left unchecked, the symptoms escalate and you wind up with even bigger problems. Further corrosion. Larger leaks. Failing components. Bigger repair bills.

The easiest way to stop the problem in its tracks is to stick with a schedule and get a radiator flush from time to time, to keep your cooling system operating well.

When was the last time your car had a radiator flush?

CV Joint and CV Boot Repair – What You Need To Know

February 18, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

“Your tire is flat. You’ll need to replace it.” Those words are straightforward and simple to understand. As a driver, if a mechanic gives you that advice, you may jump right on board.

But some parts are a little more difficult to understand.

“Your CV joint and CV boot are damaged and need repair.” Where do you begin?

What are a CV joint and CV boot?

CV stands for constant velocity. A CV joint (or CV axle) is used in front-wheel drive vehicles to transfer engine power to the drive wheels. It’s also used in some vehicles with independent rear suspension, as well as some four-wheel and all-wheel drive cars.

A CV axle uses two CV joints (an inner and outer joint) to transfer power to the drive wheels at a constant speed no matter what the travel conditions. That means no matter what speed the vehicle is traveling at, or the state of the road, the CV joint handles the power to ensure a safe and comfortable drive.

CV joints use grease for lubrication. To keep this grease pliable and in good working condition, the CV joints are covered with a rubber boot called a CV boot. CV boots are made from durable rubber designed to withstand extreme temperatures and driving conditions. CV boots are designed to last 100,000 miles or more. But because they are often exposed to the elements, they can and will occasionally go bad. Like other parts on a vehicle, it’s a good idea to routinely inspect CV boots to ensure they are in good working condition. If you move beyond 125,000 miles, scheduling routine inspections will ensure they stay operational and don’t leave you stranded.

How CV joints can fail

CV axles rarely fail. CV joints, however, can occasionally fail if something happens to the CV boot. When a CV boot is torn or fails due to age, the grease inside keeping the CV joints well lubricated starts to leak. It also leaves the CV joints unprotected, meaning dirt, grime, and other debris from the roadway can enter the joint. When this happens, it will eventually fail.

CV Joint and CV Boot Repair - What You Need To Know

Of the two, the outer joint will almost always fail first. That’s because more of the action is performed using this joint, and it’s also more vulnerable to the open road. If you suspect damage to the CV joints, it’s almost always the outer joint.

How CV boots can fail

If the CV boot gives out, it puts the CV joints in danger. Ensuring the CV boot is in good working condition can prevent most costly problems. CV boots can give off several warning signs of a problem:

Grease leak – it’s the most common symptom of a CV boot issue. Over time, the rubber can become dry, brittle, or crack. Once a split occurs in the rubber, grease from the CV joint can leak out. You’ll see this on the inside of the wheel, or flung onto the chassis or other parts of the underside of the vehicle as the CV joint continues to turn.

Clicking, popping, or grinding noise – if a CV boot is damaged for a while, it can lead to a CV joint becoming loose on the axle. If you hear a noise during turns, this might be the case. Most CV joints that reach this stage need replacing.

Vibrations – if a CV boot is damaged, it can allow dirt, grime, and other particles to get underneath the boot and near the CV axle. This debris causes damage, which can lead to a vibration up from the CV axle and through the steering wheel. This may only happen at certain speeds.

A CV boot is a protection device to keep the CV axle and CV joint clean and damage-free. It’s the first line of defense. To ensure a long life, keep an eye on the CV boot for potential damage, and maintain and repair it at the first sign of wear.

Inspecting the CV Axle

Whenever you suspect a problem with your vehicle, the fastest way to ensure everything is working well is to bring it in for an inspection. Trust our knowledge and experience to ensure your car is working well and won’t leave you stranded.

If you do suspect a potential problem with your CV axle, you can do a manual check at home with just a simple flashlight in hand.

First, park your car on level ground. Ensure the emergency brake is engaged.

Next, slide underneath the vehicle at front center, to be able to inspect both CV axles at the same time. Alternatively, you can slide underneath in front of one wheel at a time and inspect them separately.

Look closely at each CV axle. Each axle has two CV boots – outer and inner. Visually inspect the rubber for cracks, leaks, or other damage. If you see grease leaking, it’s a sign of wear.

If you suspect CV joint damage, you can take your vehicle out for a drive, paying attention to the way it drives. On a flat surface, such as an empty parking lot, turn the steering wheel all the way in one direction, then drive in a circle. Repeat going the opposite direction. If one of the CV joints is bad, you’ll notice a clicking or popping sound as you drive in a circle.

If the CV joint is bad enough for you to hear a clicking or popping sound while driving straight, it’s reached the end of life, and will ultimately fail soon. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible to avoid further damage, or risk being stranded by the edge of the road.

Does your vehicle need CV joint or CV boot repair?

CV boots serve as a protection device to allow the CV axles and joints to remain clean and in good working condition. To maintain a long service life, inspecting them at the first sign of potential damage is important. When in doubt, have a professional check it out. Make an appointment today.

What Are Auto Diagnostic Tests and Are They Reliable?

February 14, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When some problems arise, you can visually see the issue. If a tire is flat, you patch it.

Other problems are more difficult to diagnose. You know your car isn’t running correctly. You know there’s a problem deep within the systems. But where?

Luckily, we have auto diagnostic tests to help pinpoint where the problem is. How reliable are auto diagnostic tests?

The history of auto diagnostic tests

Diagnostic tests are a relatively new concept in the automotive industry. Over the past two decades, the industry grew as electronics were introduced and used just as frequently as mechanics.

The 1990s are considered the start of automotive diagnostics, as electrical structures were introduced into the complexities of car manufacturing. As computer chips became readily available and we moved to higher technological advances, vehicles changed their structures and relied more on sensors.

These sensors made it easier to locate a problem. Vehicles converted into a digital piece of technology that could be monitored and tested periodically to ensure everything is working correctly.

Running an auto diagnostic test from time to time helps keep your car safe and operating correctly. For a technician, it’s no longer guesswork when you bring the car in. Trouble codes tell them where a problem originates. Note – the code refers to where the problem lies, not necessarily what the problem is. This is where training and education come into play, where a mechanic uses their knowledge base to get to the root of the problem.

What Are Auto Diagnostic Tests and Are They Reliable?

What parts can be tested?

Today’s diagnostic tests can reveal issues in all the vehicle’s major systems.

Engine
Exhaust system
Brakes
Transmission
Fuel system

Diagnostic tests are designed to ensure your vehicle is running at optimal levels. It diagnoses:

Problems with the engine
Issues with the transmission
Responsiveness
Braking issues
Potential contamination or faults with the exhaust systems
Wear, tear, or breakage with major components

Drivers often have a misconception about what codes on their dashboards are telling them. If the check engine light turns on, they may attempt to pinpoint the problem by looking up the code being referred to. But this is only a starting point. This is where human experience takes over and gets to the root of the problem.

What auto diagnostic testing is advantageous

Technically, scheduling an auto diagnostic test isn’t a “needed” service. It’s not something you plan regularly as you would an oil change.

Diagnostic testing usually comes into play when you start having trouble with your car. Suppose you notice a problem with performance, or a dashboard light suddenly turns on. In that case, a diagnostic test can help pinpoint where it originates, giving mechanics the ability to move right to the problem.

This eliminates guesswork, and fixing by trial and error. It gets you in and out faster, and gives you better assurance that the original problem is fixed.

The reliability of an auto diagnostic test

Depending on the age of your vehicle, you may be familiar with guessing at what a problem is.

Before technology moved into the way a car functions, many of the most common issues were solved through human knowledge. But sometimes, the most challenging problems could take time to diagnose, as the output of the problem might not match what’s truly wrong.

This meant a driver may have brought the vehicle back in multiple times trying to get to the heart of the problem.

That’s wasted time, energy, and effort for all parties involved.

Take smoke coming from the tailpipe as an example. Smoke coming from the tailpipe is a sign of a problem with the engine. But it could be triggered by several different things.

It might be water vapor that’s built up inside the exhaust system, burning off as you start the car.

It might be the fuel/air mixture is too rich, and isn’t combusting correctly.

It might mean oil is burning inside the combustion chamber due to leaky valves or bad piston rings.

Or it could be a sign coolant is burning in the engine, signaling it may be a blown head gasket, which could lead to the engine overheating.

A mechanic may recognize the signals and fix one issue. But if it’s multiple problems, one may be overlooked, especially if it’s a minor problem.

A diagnostic test can pinpoint that and lead to fixing the problem before it escalates.

Accuracy is important

Years ago, cars were more mechanical by nature. Systems were more straightforward, meaning getting to the root cause was easier for a mechanic to perform.

That hasn’t changed. Some problems are easy to diagnose. A mechanic may see the issue frequently, and know exactly how to fix it.

But today’s vehicles aren’t just mechanical. They are a blend of mechanics and technology, designed for precise calibration to ensure efficiency and ease at the same time.

Compare it to a doctor’s visit. You go in with a complaint, a particular weakness or spot that’s troubling you. A doctor will ask questions, gather information, and order tests. These are essentially diagnostic tests. The doctor may have an idea of what’s wrong, but a diagnostic test confirms it, and rules out other causes.

The same works for your vehicle.

A mechanic may suspect what’s wrong. A diagnostic test confirms it. And ensures there aren’t other trouble areas that may be causing problems.

Is it time for an auto diagnostic test?

If you’ve noticed a problem with one of the major systems, a diagnostic test may aid in getting to the root cause. Before you bring it in, gather as much information as possible:

What is the problem?
When does it occur?
What circumstances surround the most noticeable characteristics?
Is there a noise? Is it constant or inconsistent?
Have you noticed other issues?
Have you tried to fix it yourself?

The more information you bring in with you, the easier it will be for our technicians to figure out what’s wrong.

Call us today and schedule your appointment. We’re here to help you get back on the road again.

Does Your Clutch Need Repair or Replacing?

February 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Clutch failure. Even if you aren’t quite sure what it means, it sounds bad.

Like other parts of your vehicle, the clutch is only designed to last for so long before it starts to wear down. Both manual and automatic transmissions have clutches designed to engage the transmission and harness the power to move the wheels throughout a full cycle. As you move out of park and start moving, the clutch engages. As you come to a stop, the clutch engages.

Manual transmission vehicles create movement between gears manually using a clutch pedal. An automatic transmission creates this movement automatically. In both cases, there is constant movement and friction as the gears move into place. Over time, enough wear will occur to wear down the clutch, requiring repair or replacement to ensure your safety.

How do you know which it is? Is it time to repair or replace the clutch in your car? Read on to find out how you’ll recognize the symptoms.

What is a clutch? Why does my car need a clutch?

Before you can diagnose clutch problems, learning more about its function can help you recognize potential problems early.

A clutch is a mechanical device that engages and disengages the transmission between several rotating shafts. A clutch is a connection point between two shafts, allowing them to lock and spin together, or disengage to operate separately.

In most vehicles, the clutch sits between the engine and the main driveshaft. It takes power from the engine and transfers it to the wheels. While an engine spins and creates power continuously, your wheels don’t. To gain control over the wheels without turning off the engine, you need a way to operate the two separately. This happens between the clutch disc and the engine’s flywheel, giving you full access to control power and speed in any condition.

Does Your Clutch Need Repair or Replacing?

A traditional clutch will contain a variety of parts, including:

Clutch disc – the connection point to the transmission
Cable – connects the clutch pedal to the clutch fork
Clutch fork – controls the force between the clutch and the pressure plate
Pressure plate – connects to the clutch disc
Flywheel – connects to the engine

Each piece is connected via links, cables, and other bearings to ensure it maneuvers correctly. If any one of these parts starts to fail, you’ll notice it in the way your car performs. A few things that can go wrong include:

A slipping clutch

A clutch can have anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles before it needs repair or replacement. As the clutch wears down, the material begins to wear out, and it won’t perform as it did when it was new. A clutch needs friction to engage. Without the proper friction, the clutch won’t work as well as it should. That means you may feel the clutch slip as you accelerate, and the clutch moves between gears. It’ll feel like your vehicle is dragging, even though the engine may be revving up.

A slipping clutch can be caused by a variety of problems, including:

A cable that needs adjusting
A clutch linkage is bent or damaged
The pressure plate is weak or warped
The clutch assembly is dirty from oil or grease leaks
A broken motor mount

As it slips between gears, it may also become sensitive to movement, or even get stuck. For a manual transmission, you may notice this if you press down on the clutch pedal and it slips out of gear immediately, or you have to push it all the way to the floor without movement. Clutches can stick for various reasons, including:

A broken or stretched clutch cable
Leaky or defective clutch master cylinder
Air in the hydraulic line
Clutch components out of sync
Linkage out of adjustment

A clutch master cylinder failure

Clutch failure can originate in the clutch master cylinder for a variety of reasons. With each potential problem, it creates signs that something is wrong. You’ll notice a problem in different ways.

Noises – when parts aren’t properly synced and working well, the friction between the parts will create a variety of sounds. With a manual transmission, you might hear a noise as you press the clutch pedal to the floor, even if the engine is turned off. That’s an indicator of a clutch fork problem. As lubricant dries up, it can cause a noise as it tries to engage.

Vibrations – as you press down on the pedal, you may feel a vibrating sensation from time to time. Vibration can be caused by a variety of things, but usually starts as things wear down. Friction no longer occurs between separate parts, meaning they rub against each other incorrectly. This appears as a vibration as they try to engage.

Spongy or loose feel – this is often caused by a hydraulic problem. There may be air in the hydraulic system, low fluid in the reservoir, or a leaking connection, hose, or pipe somewhere in the system.

Grinding while shifting gears – there should always be free-flow as your car moves from gear to gear. When you start feeling or hearing the process, it’s a sign of a worn down part. Any one of the parts that make up the clutch system isn’t moving correctly at the right speed. Instead of moving into position, it sticks or drops quickly. You’ll hear it as parts don’t connect as intended. It may require an adjustment, or a full replacement.

What can it be? An inspection will get to the root cause

Each symptom is a signal it’s time to bring your car in for an inspection. It’s the easiest way to get to the root of the problem, and fix it before it escalates into something else. In some cases, it might be a simple repair. It’s better to know for sure before it escalates, causing more damage, and potentially putting you at risk.