Express Car Care of Denver

Should I Replace a Damaged Wheel?

March 18, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Every part on your vehicle is under pressure as you drive. Few parts, however, experience the daily bumps and grinds quite the way your wheels do.

Imagine the pressure placed on the wheels as you hit one of the infamous potholes that form over the long winter months here along the Front Range.

Or how about the way your wheels bounce and move when you take a dirt road?

Or even when your car touches the curb as you slide on ice buildup from the latest storm?

That bent wheel is telling you something. You may even feel it in the way your car drives.

Should you replace the damaged wheel? Should you repair it? Ignore it?

What are wheels made of?

The majority of wheels placed on vehicles today are made of cast aluminum alloy. They are created by pouring molten aluminum into a mold. This creates a lightweight yet strong product that, in general, works better than steel wheels used in the past. Because of how they are poured, they can take on many different looks and sizes, making them a popular choice for today’s vehicles.

The wheel is the structure surrounded and protected by the tire. The wheel has a center cap that sits in the middle, with a center bore in the back. They have lug holes where bolts are used to keep everything in place. You also have spokes, which connect the center of the wheel with the outer rim of the wheel. This is where the decorative part of your wheel exists. Finally, wheels also have an outer lip, a valve stem, and the barrel. Together, they create a wheel that holds up under all kinds of pressure.

Without a stable wheel, the tire can’t operate at peak performance. They work well when both are properly maintained. If any of the elements are damaged or not in optimal working condition, it’s important to get them repaired as quickly as possible, or replaced if they can’t be fixed.

What causes wheel damage

Wouldn’t it be nice if you knew exactly what would cause damage to your wheels so you could avoid it? While there are a lot of variables in what can impact the wheels, there are a few guidelines that can help you become a more aware driver.

Driving on a flat tire – Have you ever watched a pilot walk around the plane before taking off doing a flight check? As a driver, you should have your own routine in place. As you walk up to your vehicle, glance at the tires – is one of them low on air, even flat? If your tire isn’t up for the job of protecting the wheel, it’s more likely the wheel will experience damage as you drive. Tires are designed to absorb the impact. They can’t do that if they aren’t in optimal condition. That means you should check tire pressure periodically and replace them before they further put your vehicle at risk.

Hitting a curb – how many times have you mistaken a driveway for a curb? You can tell when your car clunks and drops that the drop was larger than anticipated. Or maybe you turn a little too quickly and tap the curb as you’re turning a corner. We all do it. But that can also be a big problem for your wheels. The best course of action is to slow down and pay attention to where your car is moving.

Winter roads – sometimes bumps and dips in the road aren’t the only things to cause damage. Every winter, our roads are in constant flux with mag-chloride being sprayed on, sand and gravel laid into place, and ice and snow impacting our drive. Driving through these chemicals and other pollutants can cause a buildup on the rims. Over time, depending on the metal alloy, these corrosive materials can eat away at the structure of the wheel until they break the seal with the tires. That’s a good reason to clean your vehicle frequently during the winter months to keep your car clean of these chemicals.

Be conscious of parking – if you frequently parallel park, how often do you touch the curb with your wheels? Do you bounce off the curb in front of you as you park in a lot? This constant scrape can wear down both your tires and your wheels until it causes serious damage.

Driving on rough pavement – sometimes there is no way to avoid rough pavement. And here in Colorado, the condition of the pavement changes all the time. Huge cracks sometimes seem to form overnight. Pop-up parking lots can have you traveling over gravel and stone. Have you ever followed Siri’s instructions and found yourself on rough, unknown roads? All of this can be hard on the rims, especially if your tires are weakened.

Hitting potholes – one of the biggest causes of wheel damage is potholes, something we get quite a lot of here, thanks to our winter conditions. You know the moment you hit one that your car has suffered from the impact. Even though you cringe when you hit one, it depends on the severity your wheels take the impact. Rough edges and the depth of the hole can all add into how much damage it sustains. If you suspect a problem, or notice a difference in the way your car drives, it’s time to schedule a check-up.

Replace or repair?

Wheels are built tough and should take quite a bit of impact as you drive. It all depends on the driving conditions, and how well your vehicle is maintained.

If you suspect an issue, don’t wait. Problems escalate quickly, and what started out as a simple repair suddenly turns into a major expense. A problem with your wheels could further jeopardize your tires, the brake system, or the suspension system. And as more repair work is needed, costs quickly follow.

Our team here at Express Car Care is ready to answer all of your questions, and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

How can we help you?

Radiator Hoses

March 15, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Your radiator hoses carry coolant between your engine and radiator. It’s an important job. If a radiator hose fails, you could lose your engine coolant which might lead to overheating and very expensive engine damage, so you always want to make sure you have good hoses.

Radiator hoses are very resilient, but they are subjected to very harsh conditions. Think about this, the temperature might be below freezing when you start your engine and the coolant could be up over 100 degrees Fahrenheit within a mile. These extreme internal temperature fluctuations contribute to the hose degrading from the inside. Oil splashing on the outside of a radiator hose will cause the hose material to soften over time. Ozone can also eat away at the hose. The bottom line is that radiator hoses don’t last forever and will need to be replaced.

If you see steam coming from under your hood, you probably have a cooling system leak somewhere. Other signs to look for are puddles of coolant under the vehicle, and bulges, cracks, or a spongy feel in the radiator hose. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, have your cooling system inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

If you have any cooling system repairs, like a water pump replacement, hose replacement or radiator repair, it is also a good idea to have your hoses replaced at the same time, along with the radiator pressure cap. It is very important that the coolant be serviced when you replace a radiator or water pump so that there are plenty of anti-corrosion additives in the coolant to coat and protect the new parts that have been installed. Simply reusing the old coolant can lead to rapid corrosion of the newly installed parts.

The most common reason for engine failure is a failed cooling system. Ask your service adviser if it’s time for a cooling system inspection or service. You can eliminate potentially disastrous damage with proper cooling system maintenance.

Give us a call and let us know how we can help.

Is a Manual Transmission Easier To Maintain Than an Automatic?

March 14, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Once upon a time, every car on the road operated with a manual transmission.

A manual transmission, or a standard transmission is a multi-speed vehicle where it requires the driver to manually perform the gear changes by operating a gear stick and a clutch.

Where manual transmissions were once the norm, as automation came into the industry, automation made the entire process easier for the driver. In 2020, only 41 out of the 327 – 13 percent – new car models sold in the US were manual transmission. Compare that to 2011 when 37 percent came with manual transmissions.

Manual transmission requires skill of the driver to create an effective driving environment. While diehards love the experience of being in control, many drivers, especially in urban areas, appreciate automation and not having to be as aware of the process as they are moving in and out of traffic.

With a manual transmission, they are usually cheaper to maintain than an automatic because they are far less complex in their innerworkings. Automatic transmissions have more parts, more technology built in, and more hydraulics and electronics to ensure the gear movement works smoothly as it’s supposed to.

A manual transmission relies on you to operate the clutch and shift as needed.

An automatic transmission relies on technology.

That gives the advantage to a manual transmission when comparing repair costs. Of course, there are other circumstances that impact longevity. Like everything in your vehicle, regular maintenance is everything.

Maintenance when driving a manual transmission

No matter what type of car you drive, regular maintenance is a part of your routine.

No matter what car you drive, it’s a good idea to refer to your owner’s manual to learn more about the maintenance process. The manufacturer created a guide to help you keep your car in good operating condition, making recommendations for repair work and replacement to add longevity.

While transmission fluid doesn’t need replacement as rapidly as motor oil, it’s still something that impacts the way your car moves and drives. Transmission fluid may need to be replaced every 15,000 miles or so – follow the guidelines for your make and model.

Scheduling transmission fluid changes will keep fresh transmission fluid in your vehicle, helping it run better. But don’t assume it stays fresh and without problems as you operate your vehicle. Transmission fluid can be checked similarly to motor oil. You’ll find a dipstick under the hood to perform periodic checks. Be sure levels remain constant, and look for any discoloration, which could mean there’s a leak and a seal needs replacing.

Be conscious of how you move through the gears. Be sure the clutch is all the way in before you move between gears. To prevent wear and tear, be sure you come to a complete stop before moving to reverse. If something feels like it’s sticking, don’t force the gears.

Maintenance when driving an automatic transmission

In many ways, properly maintaining an automatic transmission is similar to a manual.

Check the transmission fluid periodically to ensure it’s filled. If you notice it’s low, or a change in color has occurred, it’s time to bring it in for a mechanic to evaluate the system. Transmission fluid is naturally a clear, bright red color with a slightly sweet smell. If you notice the fluid is dark, murky, or loses its sweet smell, it’s time for replacement.

Don’t just throw any transmission fluid into your vehicle; every make and model comes with specific recommendations. This is also where it’s nice to have a trusted service station on your side, one you can trust to provide you with high quality fluids and parts.

Depending on your vehicle, you might also need occasional transmission fluid flush. This ensures fresh fluid stays within your vehicle, while older fluid is flushed from the system, no longer impacting your car.

While you might not have as much control over when the gears move as you’re driving, you should still pay attention to the shifting process. Never throw your vehicle into park while your car is still rolling to a stop. Never move to reverse unless your vehicle is at a complete stop.

When you drive down steep grades, you should also move the gears manually into a lower gear to help control your speed without relying on the braking system. Too much heat from constant pressure on the brake pads can cause the system to overheat, putting you and your vehicle at greater risk.

Where costs change

Whether you have a manual transmission or automatic, maintenance starts with transmission fluid. Over time, you may have to replace various parts, depending on your vehicle and the driving conditions.

How new is your vehicle? Some transmission parts may be covered by the manufacturer’s powertrain warranty. Depending on your vehicle, this might last 60,000, 80,000 miles, or more.

The clutch, however, for a manual transmission will not be a part of that warranty. It is considered a “wear” item, and will only fall under more generic warranty coverage, possibly with 12,000 miles or so of coverage.

If you drive your manual hard, you might go through clutches rapidly. This means more maintenance than you would experience with an automatic vehicle that handles shifting for you.

Automatic transmissions can also be abused. Hard drivers are always more susceptible to wear issues than drivers that learn to take things slow. Avoid quick stops and throwing your vehicle into gear. Never force movement when it’s not there. And pay attention to changes in the way your vehicle moves. Any sound, any smell, any difference could be a sign of failure. The sooner you bring it in for evaluation, the quicker the repair can be made, potentially saving you money in the process.

How can we help you keep your manual or automatic transmission in good working condition?

A Guide To Power Steering

March 10, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

If you were to jump behind the wheel of a car built in the 1950s or before, you’d notice a lot of changes from our modern technology. While you could quickly adjust to seat comfort, noise levels, or even the lack of accessories, the one thing you might have problems with is the way the car drives.

Power steering may just be one of the single most effective systems adding into the modern day driving experience.

Without power steering, steering wheels were much larger in size. That was to give the driver leverage when trying to turn the wheels. As power steering was added, it became easier than ever to control the wheels with just slight variations of the steering wheel. It shrunk in size to add more comfort to the passenger cabin.

The power steering wheel

The original power steering wheel was added to enhance the feel for the driver. When you have more control, it reduces risk.

To create movement in the steering system, it’s achieved with a gear system. If you’ve ever heard the term “rack and pinion”, it’s referring to the steering system.

The rack is linear rather than round. It’s long and flat with prongs on one side. The rack is attached to the steering column by a series of tie rods.

The pinion is a circular gear that connects the steering shaft to the steering wheel. As you turn the steering wheel, the pinion rotates, moving the rack back and forth to control the vehicle to turn left or right.

The difference between hydraulic and electric power steering

While power steering changed everything, since it was first introduced in the 1950s, it has seen its share of changes.

The rack and pinion gear is also referred to as hydraulic, or HPS (high pressure steering.) These are considered steering assistance programs. If something happens to the engine, these steering assistance systems will give the driver control to steer even if fluid isn’t being supplied to the steering gear. Hydraulic steering uses the power supplied from the engine uses a belt attached to a pump, which continues to circulate fluid throughout the system.

Power flows because of the fluid. The power steering pump circulates this fluid under intense pressure, moving the pistons that control gear shifting, requiring less effort from the movement of the steering wheel. Pressure builds, the piston moves, and you have the ability to shift the car left or right with gentle motions. With technology, this process has sensors which can also take into consideration the vehicle’s speed, which ensures all movement is appropriate for the rate at which you are traveling.

Electric power steering, or EPS, is a bit simpler thanks to technology. It’s the vehicle’s computer system that is in charge of the steering process. The vehicle is equipped with a small electric motor either on the steering column or on the steering rack. Because the EPS doesn’t rely on power from the engine, it can increase fuel efficiency as well.

As a driver turns the steering wheel, the computer translates the movement and sends the request to the electric motor. This moves the rack and pinion back and forth. It’s built similarly to the hydraulic system in that it increases sensitivity at higher speeds. Because the only fluid in the system is to move the rack and pinion, it does not require fluid flushes as the hydraulic system does.

Common power steering problems

Like every part of your vehicle, the car is designed to give small warning signs as to when your power steering is failing. Watch for:

Power steering fluid leaks – power steering fluid is used to transfer pressure within the system, and change the direction of your wheels. If this fluid system has been compromised and is leaking fluid, the ability to build up enough pressure to move the wheels will be harder to do. You’ll notice it in the turning radius of your steering wheel – what used to be simpler grows harder to process. You can easily spot a leak because you’ll notice fluid dripping from the vehicle. There is often a grinding noise that is heard as you attempt to turn. If you ignore the problem to the point the system runs out of fuel, it can burn out the power steering pump.

Worn out hose – all parts are submitted to extreme conditions as you drive throughout the year. Often, one of the first to go are hoses as they crack, peel, or break. If the rubber hardens, it suffers more under intense conditions. This can be one of the first sources of a power steering fluid leak.

Slipped belt – occasionally, the drive belt will slip off the power steering pump. You’ll notice this by a squealing sound as you move your wheel to the left. This will prevent your car from changing direction as the pump won’t be able to do its job because of a total loss of fluid pressure.

Worn out pump – as a car ages, it causes the power steering pump to wear down. The seals can fail, the pump can break down, all leading to a loss of fluid pressure. The squealing noise will increase as you use it, and you’ll eventually lose the ability to steer at all.

How do you prevent problems with your power steering?

Preventative maintenance is your best course of action. Through a routine inspection, one of our mechanics can test each system and determine where weaknesses lie. You’ll learn which parts should be replaced, what signs to watch for, and be able to make decisions about the risk levels of your auto.

Want to keep your family safe every time you get in behind the wheel?

Schedule a maintenance inspection today.

Is Your Car Worth Fixing?

March 7, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

There used to be a time when cars wouldn’t last more than a few years. The parts would wear out. The systems would cease to work. There wasn’t a choice – you had to replace your car out of necessity.

Over time, manufacturers have gotten better at building reliable parts and cars. No longer can you expect a car to last a handful of years. In fact, according to a recent IHS Markit study, the number of pre-2005 cars and trucks on the road today has climbed to an all-time high. One in four vehicles on American roads are at least 16 years old.

One-hundred thousand miles on a vehicle used to be considered a breaking point. Now, many car owners who hit that milestone say their vehicles are just getting started.

Still, if you’ve driven your current vehicle for years, it’s hard not to wonder at what point it’s better for your wallet to invest in something new. You like not having car payments. Your car may have been cost-effective up until now. But how do you choose whether to keep your car or replace it? Is your car worth fixing, or should you start shopping for something new?

Start with a simple question: Is it cosmetic or mechanical?

People often start considering a new car for one of two reasons: The car may no longer appeal to them visually, or repair bills are starting to escalate.

Why are you considering investing in a new car? Is it for cosmetic reasons? Is the paint chipping? Do you have scratches and dents all over the car?

Maybe a little bodywork could improve its looks. Yet before you take your car in for estimates on sprucing up the outside, think about the inside for a moment. Does your car shake, rattle, and roll? Do you continuously smell gas fumes when you’re near the rear?

As a driver, paying attention to the way your car handles is part of being a good driver. It helps you recognize what’s happening underneath the hood, and make good choices before your vehicle leaves you stranded by the side of the road.

If you’ve put money into repairing it before small fixes turn into larger problems, it might be worth fixing a few car dings, or even repainting your car. It can make you feel happier when you walk up to your car in the parking lot, and drive it on the city roads. It can even add to the value, becoming something someone else wants to drive rather than an eyesore they hide from their friends.

Mechanical problems are an entirely different issue. Small repairs that can be easily made maybe a decent trade-off, especially if you no longer have a monthly car payment. But when small repair bills grow in size, it’s time to start questioning their value.

Where do you draw the line?

Get a car repair estimate

The good news is if you bring your vehicle in, and trust a neighborhood mechanic rather than a dealer, you’ll get an estimate before we even start the work. Neighborhood mechanics almost always charge less for repairs than dealers – it’s just one of the ways they keep their large lots in business.

Before you decide what repairs to make to your car, take a look at the estimate and see what work needs to be done. Transmission assembly can be well over $6,000. Replacing an engine begins at $5,000, depending on make and model. Replacing a hybrid battery and reprogramming and engine control model can be in access of $4,400.

Once you have your estimate in hand, talk with your mechanic. Is there a way to make the process less expensive? Are there certain parts of the process you can forgo, or at least put off, spreading the costs over several months? Can you use salvaged parts? Or can you rebuild rather than replace?

That’s where working with a neighborhood mechanic stands apart from working through a dealer. Neighborhood mechanics understand it takes a lot to budget everything in your life. They are more willing to give you options and help you make the right – and safest – choice for your needs.

Run the numbers

With an estimate in hand, you can now run the numbers. Use Kelley Blue Book to determine the value of your car if you were to sell it to a private buyer.

If your car is worth $3,500, for example, and the repair estimate is in excess of that amount, it would be hard to justify the repair. Edmunds makes a simple rule of thumb that applies to this situation: If the cost of repairs will be greater than either the bluebook value of your car or one year’s worth of monthly payments, it’s time to consider a new vehicle.

Remember, though, that repairing a car will ultimately be less expensive than purchasing a new one. It’s not always the money alone you should consider.

Do you want to take on several years of car payments?
Are you worried your car will break down even after this repair?
How is the outlook of your job?
What changes are occurring in your life right now?

If a repair could bring you several more years of reliable transportation, it might be your best choice.

You know this car, and its history. It might be better than going with another used potential problem.

Make the right choice for you

As you’re making your final decision, remember reliable transportation is always crucial. And there are still ways around getting a reliable car.

If you’ve had your heart set on a specific car, can you lower your expectations for the time being? Instead of a Honda Accord, will a Honda Civic be a better choice for now?

Or maybe you can purchase a used car. We offer an inspection service that will check out the major systems and give you more assurance you’re investing in a quality car rather than a lemon.

No matter which direction you choose, regular maintenance is critical in keeping your vehicle on the road without leaving you stranded.

Have further questions about repairs for your car? Just ask.

Does Your Vehicle Have a Blown Head Gasket?

March 4, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever lost your cool, and someone around you said: don’t blow a head gasket, it’ll be alright? You’ve reached your limits. You’re furious to the point of losing control.

That phrase actually comes from a similar action in your car.

A vehicle’s head gasket isn’t a common auto part; it isn’t one you see sitting on your dashboard, or even tinker with when you pop open the hood. The head gasket sits between the engine block and cylinder block. Today’s modern head gaskets are created from multi-layer steel, while older engines were made up of composite asbestos or graphite, or even solid copper.

A head gasket’s purpose is:

Sealant – When your vehicle is running, it causes a lot of pressure in the gasoline cylinder. The head gasket sits between the engine and the cylinder and is designed to keep this pressure in check. It often contains a special cylinder ring designed to add extra protection from releasing pressure.

Fluid – Both the engine and cylinder need coolant and oil to operate properly. Ports in the head gasket allow these fluids to flow freely as needed. The cylinder uses coolant to maintain proper temperature while the oil lubricates and provides for hydraulic pressure.

At the same time, the head gasket’s job is to ensure that both coolant and oil are maintained in their proper channels. It keeps these fluids from mixing. It also prevents combustion gases from flowing back into the various passages. The head gasket may have o-rings to provide stronger seals, depending on the make and model.

What does a blown head gasket mean?

Does Your Vehicle Have a Blown Head Gasket? The head gasket has an important job to ensure your vehicle operates smoothly. When your head gasket is blown, it means one or more of these fluids or gases are going where they shouldn’t be.

A blown head gasket can allow coolant and combustion gases to mix, for example, or allow coolant to mesh with the engine oil. And when that happens, you’ll start having issues with the way your vehicle drives.

Some problems are more noticeable than others. Keep driving, and the problems will escalate until your car is undrivable.

Most head gaskets don’t blow right away. Here are symptoms to watch for.

There is a difference between a blown head gasket and one starting to show signs of a problem. This is where it pays to know your car well. If you catch the problem early, you can avoid a blown head gasket and all the potential problems that surface with it.

Pay attention to your coolant levels. If you notice coolant levels falling without an exterior leak, you might have a coolant leak somewhere in the engine.

Watch for smoke. Another telltale sign is white smoke coming from the tailpipe. It’s an indication of a crack in the head gasket, or a problem with the cylinder or engine block. White smoke usually indicates a coolant leak, which produces the white color as it burns.

Listen for misfires. As you’re starting up your vehicle, listen for symptomatic noises that may indicate misfiring. If you notice blue smoke while driving, it’s the first sign of faulty design somewhere within the engine compartment. Investigate sooner rather than later.

Overheating. Watch your car’s thermostat and ensure it’s running at optimal temperature. Any change in the way it runs could be an indication of a potential problem.

Can you drive with a blown head gasket?

The short answer is; No. Head gaskets, in general, can last 200,000 miles or more. They are considered to be a lifetime part on many vehicles. With regular maintenance, little can go wrong with this crucial piece of the engine.

However, even with optimal care, there is always a chance of things going wrong. Even driving on city roads in normal traffic conditions can sometimes jar systems enough to cause problems.

A blown head gasket causes two problems.

It allows coolant to escape from your engine compartment. When this happens, it leads to overheating of your engine. The longer you drive in this condition, the more damage is done to the engine. This coolant is hot – if you pop the hood, you can sustain serious burns. It can also catch fire. This is why it’s important to attend to a blown head gasket quickly.

It allows coolant to enter the cylinders. When coolant mixes with oil and gas, it results in white smoke releasing through your exhaust system. Too much coolant in the engine can destroy it, and prevent oil from doing its job, and providing proper lubricant.

What’s involved in replacing the head gasket?

If the head gasket is blown and the leak is too large to simply fix the sealants, it requires a new part. While the head gasket itself isn’t an expensive piece, it does take a significant amount of labor to install it. This isn’t a DIY project without adequate mechanical knowledge.

The oil and coolant need to be drained from the engine, before removing parts of the engine to access the head gasket. A lot of parts are involved in the process, and one wrong move could cause even bigger issues.

Will your car drive with a blown head gasket?

While your vehicle won’t come to a grinding halt when a head gasket is blown, the damage can quickly escalate. Coolant and oil intermixing is never a good thing. When the two aren’t flowing properly, and aren’t providing the necessary fluids where they are intended to go, it impacts all other parts in your engine. This lack of lubrication can further damage your engine to the point of ceasing altogether.

For all these reasons and more, we don’t recommend driving with a blown head gasket once you determine you have a problem. The quicker you fix it, the less damage will occur.

The Right Fluids For Your Vehicle

March 1, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Big advances in automotive technology have led to the development of high-tech fluids to keep pace. A simple example of this is the cooling system. For decades it was primarily made out of iron, steel and rubber hoses. There was one kind of coolant that protected these components from corrosion.

Today, cooling system components are made with various metal alloys and plastics. These materials require different additives to protect them from corrosion. Since the materials used vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, we now have a number of different kinds of coolant. So it’s very important that you choose the right one for your vehicle. If you pour in the wrong kind, it won’t protect the cooling system and may even void the warranty. Of course, your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Express Car Care will know the proper coolant to use. If you’re concerned you may have used the wrong fluid, be safe and have your service center flush your system and start fresh with the right fluid.

Brake fluid is confusing for some drivers. For a very long time, most vehicles used Dot 3 brake fluid. Now we have Dot 4 and Dot 5. Some people mistakenly think the higher numbers are an upgrade. The natural assumption is, if 3 is good than 4 must be better. That’s not how it works. They are different formulations to meet the requirements of differences in brake systems. Only one of them will be recommended for your vehicle.

Transmission fluid is done the same way. With the tremendous engineering advances in automatic transmissions, there have been several new types of fluids developed to protect and lubricate them and it’s important to choose the right fluid for your vehicle.

Nowhere are the advances in automotive fluids more evident than in motor oil. Many new weights and formulations have been created to meet the demands of today’s modern engine design.

Modern engines have more parts and much tighter tolerances. Every year, vehicle engines make more power and get better fuel economy. But with all the added sophistication and complexity, they still have to be durable.

That’s where the new grades of engine oil come in, they have to be formulated to lubricate, protect and clean all of those engine parts, big and small. The oil has to be thin enough to get into small passages, yet resistant to vaporization.

Your vehicle may have come from the factory with synthetic oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, differential fluid, etc. If so, your recommended service intervals will be based on synthetic-type fluids and you should use the same type when your vehicle is serviced at Express Car Care in Denver.

Because grades of oil and types of coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and every other fluid used in your vehicle are so carefully matched to the vehicle, take care to always use the right fluid if you are topping off at home. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask your helpful service advisor. Using the wrong fluid can cause costly damage.

Horsepower or Torque – What’s The Difference?

February 28, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

No matter what vehicle you own, the concept of power comes up from time to time. Especially here in Colorado, if you’ve ever tried to climb up into the hills for a day of skiing or hiking, you understand how important power really is.

Power gives you the ability to go. More power means your vehicle handles better in road conditions where you hope to pull ahead of the crowd. It’s important when zooming up the mountain. It’s equally as important in day to day driving conditions, where you’re moving in and out of traffic, staying aware of your surroundings.

If you’re looking for power, and you read the spec sheet on any vehicle on the market, you’ll notice they mention one of two things: horsepower and torque. But what’s the difference? Is one more important than the other? When it comes to horsepower or torque, where should your focus be?

Let’s start by defining both.

What is horsepower?

A horsepower is a unit of measure used to define the rate at which work is done by the motor or engine. Horsepower is what it takes to move your vehicle along. It’s what gives your vehicle the ability to accelerate under normal conditions, and to stay running as you cruise down the road.

What is torque?

Torque is the amount of force applied to the vehicle. It’s the force needed to start your vehicle in motion from a standing position. It’s also what is necessary to help it move up steep hills. If you own a pickup truck and haul or tow, it’s also something that is needed to add power into this process.

What’s the difference between horsepower and torque?

In general, you’ll often see commercials talk about both horsepower and torque when discussing large trucks and pulling heavy loads. But the concept holds through to all vehicles, no matter what you drive.

All engines produce power, which is also known as horsepower. Going scientific for a moment, one horsepower is the power needed to move 33,000 pounds one foot in one minute. It’s simply the rate of doing the work.

Mechanics will measure horsepower by using a dynamometer. This device places a load on the engine and measures the force of the engine crankshaft against that load. What it’s measuring is the torque output from the engine.

Torque is measured at various speeds, or revolutions per minute – RPMs. These numbers are used for calculating horsepower – torque times RPM divided by 5,252.

You’ll see horsepower listed in two ways: gross and net.

Gross horsepower is calculated without a load against the engine. Net horsepower is tested as you would drive it away from the showroom floor, with various loads against the engine, including emissions standards and more.

The easiest way to understand the difference is that torque is doing the work, whereas horsepower is how fast the work is being done.

Every car, truck, or vehicle you drive will have both controlling the way you move.

What makes your vehicle go – speed and acceleration

There’s another aspect we need to discuss before we talk more about how much horsepower and torque you need: speed and acceleration.

When most people talk about car movement, they mention the word speed. But there are two aspects of moving forward.

Speed is the rate at which a car can move. It’s the limits your car has built in to move forward. You might push your car occasionally towards one-hundred miles per hour. Top speeds are often tested – a 2017 Koenigsegg Agera RS can reach a top speed of 277.87 mph.

Acceleration, however, is how fast your car can gain that speed. This is where you’ll hear things like a car can do 0-60 mph in just a few seconds.

How speed and acceleration play into torque and horsepower

You’re probably seeing how each of these characteristics meld and work together.

The more horsepower you have, in theory, the better able you’ll be at pushing your car towards your top speed. Reaching peak torque means you’ve arrived at a place where you can sustain a constant speed.

This is where the two – horsepower and torque – work together.

If you ask the “experts” what number to focus on, you’ll hear just as many answers as there are people to answer them.

A racecar driver may be completely in-tune with their needs. For speed racing on land, they may prefer higher horsepower, while off-road racing may rely more on torque.

If you pay attention to sales ads, you’ll probably determine that more is always better. That’s marketing for you – they always want to push more, more, more!

But when it comes down to it, it’s more important to understand your own needs. How do you use your car, truck, or SUV?

Do you spend the majority of your time sailing down the highway at 60 mph? Do you haul boats and campers every weekend? Or is the majority of your time spent driving to and from soccer practice, with daily stops at the grocery store?

Torque can matter most if you haul heavy loads. Pulling a trailer, or consistently climbing deep into the hills can push torque ratings more in your favor.

If you’re worried about how fast you can peel away at the stoplight, focus more on horsepower than anything else.

It’s also about preference. We each tend to adjust our driving habits based on what we’re used to. Horsepower and torque don’t necessarily peak simultaneously, which means you can experience different driving conditions even with two vehicles with somewhat similar ratings.

Do your research before you drive a vehicle, and put some thought into where you want to put your money. The more power you gain, the more money you’ll put into your gas tank too.

Have additional questions about horsepower or torque? We’re happy to help you understand the mechanics of your car or truck, and keep it running well for life.

Buying Auto Parts or Visiting a Mechanic – Which Is Better?

February 24, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

No matter what type of vehicle you own, you’ll eventually have to replace a few parts to keep it running. Whether it’s a can of oil, a new belt or hose, or replacing an entire system, you have a choice:

Buying auto parts yourself and handling the fix yourself
Visiting a mechanic and letting an expert handle the repair

There’s never a right or wrong answer every time. It depends on your knowledge, your skills, and how much time you have to invest in the outcome.

Buying auto parts may seem like a great way to save money. But so much can go wrong.

There are no guarantees or warranties to help you down the road

There are two scenarios at work here.

Let’s say you buy the auto parts necessary to repair your vehicle. The part itself may come with a guarantee, but it often is limited to the part; it will not cover a potential problem when you install it yourself. A manufacturer can’t take that risk – what if you install it incorrectly? It’s limited to what you spend on the part itself.

Some budget-minded drivers attempt to buy parts at a low cost, then take them to a mechanic in an attempt to counter this problem. In this case, it depends on the mechanic helping you out.

Mechanics often won’t use auto parts supplied by the driver because they can’t guarantee the parts are in good working order. This is their reputation on the line. They don’t want to be held liable for using a part that simply won’t work.

An expert will want to take control over the entire situation, to ensure your car is safe as you drive away.

You might not buy the right equipment

One trip to the auto parts store will tell you there are dozens – hundreds – of parts for your vehicle, and when it comes right down to it, they all look the same.

The size may change slightly. Ratios may be off. Parts often vary from make, model, and year.

Imagine ripping your car apart, running to the auto parts store, buying a part, and coming home only to realize it isn’t the right part. Rinse. Repeat.

In some cases, you might not have the right tools for the job either. Different parts have different installation methods – do you have the right wrench?

It’s a matter of time, expertise, and money. Bringing your car to a mechanic will get the job done the right way. Trying it yourself is always a hit or miss at best.

Are you convinced visiting a mechanic is in your best interest?

Want your visit to run smoothly from beginning to end?

Communicate clearly

A mechanic can’t guess at what’s wrong with your car. They don’t drive it every day like you do. Instead, they rely on you to help them determine where the problem is.

Whether you’re bringing it in for a routine checkup, or have a larger problem that can no longer be ignored, spend a few moments creating a list of the things you want the mechanic to check out. Even if you aren’t sure if something is a problem or not, a working list will help a mechanic get to the root of the problem. Noises, smells, rattles, leaks, sensations – even if it seems to be little, it’s better to bring it to a mechanic’s attention to help determine where the problem is.

Be prepared

Cars cost money to operate. Too often, drivers attempt to ignore problems until they become so bad they can’t drive. That ends in a very large bill repairing multiple problems and big-ticket items.

Often, a regular maintenance schedule can find problems as they start, and make minor repairs that will keep your car operating well for the life of the vehicle. Still, cars will eventually need larger services, such as brake replacement and new tires. If you understand how each system is wearing on your vehicle, and you monitor it as you drive, you can save for the larger repairs.

Your car isn’t a storage unit

Today’s vehicles are bigger than ever. That means we see many drivers come in that use their vehicles as storage units. There are golf clubs in the back, boxes stacked from bottom to top. There are leftover papers everywhere, even a stroller tucked behind the front seat.

Trouble is, in some cases, a mechanic will have to remove those items to get where they need to be.

All of that extra equipment adds weight to your vehicle. That might impact the overall quality of the repair. While you might need some of it for your weekly trips and errands, before you bring it into the shop, spend a few minutes decluttering it for your repair visit.

Trust the mechanic to do their job

While you may know how your vehicle drives from day to day, a mechanic is trained to find where potential problems lie, and understands how to fix them. Tell them your concerns, even give them your list, then let them take over and do their job the right way.

If they have questions, they’ll be in touch. Do they have your cell number to reach you at any point during the repair visit? This can speed up the process, and allow you to make decisions as they come up.

Is it time for visiting a mechanic that can help you keep your car in good working order?

When it comes time to finding the right mechanic, sometimes trusting a local service will ensure you learn how to work with the people, and that they understand working with you.

It gives you a chance to build a team to help you keep your car in as good of condition as possible. No matter what.

Whether you’re looking for an oil change, need your tires balanced, or are in need of new brakes on your car, our family-owned business is ready and waiting to help you.

Maintenance Tips For Your Older Pickup Truck

February 21, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

How old is your pickup truck? Statistics show it’s getting older.

According to research from IHS Markit, the average age of a light vehicle has grown to 11.9 years, which has increased by one month from the average set one year ago.

There are a lot of reasons for that, including better technology and quality improvements. If you consider your vehicle to be more reliable longer, why trade it in and bump up your expenditures once again?

Of course, where your money goes is a constant ebb and flow. You may not have monthly loan payments, but the older your vehicle is, the more likely you’ll be replacing parts and servicing your car from time to time.

Add in the fact that more people are looking for high quality previously owned vehicles. IHS also has predicted that the number of light vehicles on the road will jump to 16 years and older will jump 22 percent over the next few years, reaching 84 million by 2023. People are no longer demanding new each time they look for new vehicles. Instead, they look for used. It’s no longer unheard of for a vehicle to be sold multiple times.

Technology and quality assurance may be the starting point for making vehicles better today, but an equal handshake has to go to the maintenance market.

If you want your pickup truck to last ten, fifteen years or more, you have to be forward-thinking on your maintenance routine. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, you have to schedule regular visits and fix minor problems before they explode into larger ones.

Want to keep your pickup truck looking and operating like new for years to come? Here’s what to do.

Start with oil changes

An oil change is one of the most basic services your pickup truck needs. It used to be that vehicles needed oil changes right at 3,000 miles, but times have changed a bit. Thanks to synthetic oils being produced today, some of the latest models are pushing the envelope of how long you can travel between oil changes. It’s not unheard of for manufacturers to recommend intervals between 5,000 and 7,500 miles.

But keep in mind that this is a ballpark number. It also depends on your driving habits. Thanks to our recent staying-in-place orders, if you’re spending more time at home, your pickup truck may take longer to reach the specified numbers. The age of the oil is important too. Our advice is to stick with a schedule – base it on miles traveled or months in service, either/or. That ensures your vehicle has fresh oil running through the various parts and systems, and won’t let you down when you need it most.

Check the brakes

Some pickup trucks are treated as the family sedan. They drive to and from work on paved roads, with the occasional stop at the hardware store for little DIY projects around the house. Others are full-out work vehicles, hauling thousands of pounds all over town regularly. Each of those impacts your brake system in different ways.

Do your brakes feel spongy when you press down on the brake pedal? Are you having to push down farther to achieve the same results? It could be a sign of failing brakes. Part of increasing the longevity of your vehicle is in becoming attuned to how it drives. Pick up on the small feelings, noises, or smells that suddenly change. This alerts you to potential problems, and helps you bring your pickup truck in for maintenance sooner. It can be the difference between a small repair and an expensive overhaul.

Spend time with your tires and wheels

One of the easiest places to keep watch for potential problems is with your tires and wheels. When tires are low, they don’t roll and connect with the pavement as easily. That requires more power from the engine to ensure the proper connection. Next time you stop at a gas station, pull in and check your tire pressure. Inflate them according to your vehicle’s guidelines. You should find the levels printed on a label in the driver’s door jamb, or head online and search.

Do you notice uneven wear on your tire’s tread? Do you notice your car bouncing along, a less comfortable ride than normal, or have your vehicle nosedive when slowing for a stop sign or stoplight? Or maybe your vehicle pulls to the right or left as you’re driving along?

All are warning signs it’s time for a maintenance visit.

Shocks and struts can cause handling problems, which could be dangerous to you and others on the road.

An alignment problem can wear down the suspension system, something that can occur slowly over time.

All of these conditions happen gradually over time. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on basic things to ensure your pickup truck is running well. Inspect your tires regularly and notice any changes in their tread or performance.

Give your pickup truck regular cleanings

CDOT uses a variety of different products on the highways and roads to keep them drivable all winter long. And while they’ve improved the chemicals they use to lessen the impact on a vehicle’s wear, it’s still a good idea to wash it off regularly.

A good cleaning can remove caked-on dust, dirt, chemicals, and other pollutants your pickup truck picks up from normal driving conditions. It also gives you a chance to see your car in a different light. A clean car makes it easier to spot damage. And if you’re handwashing it on occasion, you can see the little things you might miss otherwise.

Dirt can penetrate through even the tiniest hole or crack. And if it’s left to sit, the damage can penetrate, grow, until it does a lot of damage.

Give your pickup truck what it needs to live a long life

Your vehicle isn’t just an object that’s ready and waiting for whenever you need it. It has value that can last for years if you treat it well.

When you purchase your vehicle, whether used or new, spend some time getting to know your pickup truck on the inside and outside. Then watch, listen, and notice how it drives. Just being aware of how your vehicle moves will allow you to notice things quicker.

That can keep your pickup truck in good working condition for years to come.