Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Guide to Battery Replacement

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Most folks know that car batteries wear out just like any other battery and need to be replaced.  There are a couple things drivers should know and keep in mind as a guide to battery replacement.  One is cold cranking amps and the other is reserve capacity.

We’ll start with cold cranking amps.  Think of this as the power output used to start a cold engine.  The number of cold cranking amps you need depends on your vehicle and where you live, or specifically, how cold it is where you live.  Two factors to consider are that the colder an engine is, the more power it takes to turn the engine over to get it started.  It has all that cold, sluggish oil to contend against.  The second factor is the chemical reaction in the battery that creates electrical energy is less efficient in the cold.

So the colder the weather gets, the more power is needed, but is unavailable.  So if you live where it’s cold, you need a battery with more cold cranking amps than you would where it’s moderate or hot.  You should always get at least as many cold cranking amps as are recommended but you may want to upgrade if you live where it gets really cold.

An important guide:  Batteries may also list the Cranking Amps-CA-number.  It is the Cold Cranking Amps – or CCA – that is the number you’re interested in here.  CCA is the number to use in your comparisons when you’re shopping for a battery replacement.

With all this talk of cold temperatures, it’s also important for drivers to note that heat is the real enemy of long battery life.  In other words, the damage that’s done over the summer months shows up with the increased demands on the battery when the weather turns cold.

Now let’s talk about reserve capacity:  It’s the measurement of the number of minutes of reserve power the battery has at a given load.  The number is more important these days because of parasitic drain.  Parasitic drain is the battery energy that’s used when the key is off.  This is the power drawn by the security system, the remote start system, and even the power the computers require to maintain their memory.

Reserves are also needed when you make very short trips, you’re not driving long enough for the vehicle battery to recover the energy it used just to start the engine.

A basic guide to battery replacement is to go with the recommended minimum unless you believe you need more and want to upgrade.  Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros about your options.

What To Do When Your Power Steering Goes Out

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Power steering on today’s automobiles is something most of us take for granted. But if you’ve ever had it disappear, you’ll appreciate it a little bit more.

It can be kind of scary, especially here along the Front Range. You’re driving. Heading to the office, or maybe off for a weekend in the mountains. You’re singing along with the radio, talking with the family, and suddenly it’s very difficult to turn the steering wheel in your car. What do you do when your power steering goes out?

Depending on what’s wrong determines the right course of action. Not all power steering problems require extensive repair work. But like other car repair issues, quick action can often save you time and money down the road.
What To Do When Your Power Steering Goes Out
Understanding Power Steering Technology

Power steering isn’t new technology. In fact, it was put in place as the first automobiles started flowing off the production line.

Hydraulic steering uses a pump to supply pressure. Driver control is authorized by use of rack and pinion. Fluid pressure is created within the pump, and pushed against a piston. As the wheel turns, pressure builds and flows, causing the piston to move. This piston is also attached to the steering mechanism, and with the air of hydraulic pressure, the steering wheel is moved and controlled by whoever is driving.

It all comes down to a highly sensitive valve system. When the steering wheel is straight, the steering valve is at rest. But as you turn it, fluid begins to flow around the valves, through the reservoir, and into the cylinder. The fluid moves and flows to different pressure chambers, depending on the direction you turn the wheel to control the gears. When the steering wheel is released, it returns to its neutral position.

When The Power Steering Goes Out

If there is a problem with any part of this hydraulic system, you’ll know it. Even a slight turn of the steering wheel will exert pressure, be more stubborn and stiff, and require more power to create the action of turning. If you drive for any distance, it can actually leave you a little sore. It also begs the question: what’s wrong?

One of the simplest solutions is power steering fluid is low. This could be caused by a leak somewhere in the system. It could be caused by a lack of maintenance over the years, and your fluid has simply run out over time.

It might be due to contamination within the power steering fluid. As you drive your car, parts wear down and start breaking off. These tiny pieces can end up in the power steering fluid and corrode the functionality of the power steering fluid.

A more serious problem could be that the pump itself is failing. While this isn’t a common problem, it does happen from time to time. The best way to prevent any of this and stay on top of a potential problem is to be proactive from the start. If you take care of your system, provide regular servicing, this shouldn’t be an issue.

You can also watch for a potential leak by paying attention to what’s underneath your car. If you leave it set for any length of time, check for fluid. If you see a pink or amber puddle, it might be steering fluid. You can add power steering fluid yourself, or get it into our shop quickly so we can evaluate your entire system and ensure everything is working up to par.

Can It Be Something More?

Keep in mind that your car is put together with thousands of pieces all interlocked together, relying on each other to make sure everything works as it should. When one thing goes wrong, it can create a snowball effect, causing more pieces to go bad.

Every movement your car makes has enough force to impact different pieces. A shimmy or a shake is absorbed by the steering gear. If tires are low or out of balance, it can increase the likelihood of a recurring shimmy every time you drive. If the force is strong enough, it will damage bearings and impact the gears. This gives the drive system free play, meaning it starts the process of making steering difficult to control. It’s not an all-or-nothing problem. It occurs gradually over time.

Many drivers are misled to thinking you can control this shimmy by adjusting the nuts on the top of the steering gear. You can’t. Turning this will not eliminate shimmy, and may actually do more damage to the gears then leaving it alone. This can bind the gears together, essentially making the problem even worse.

It may also be from worn out steering valves. If power steering seems fine when you first turn your car on, and becomes increasingly more difficult as you drive, it may be the steering valves. A reputable repair shop can help make the diagnosis and fix the problem.

What If Your Power Steering Goes Out While You’re Driving?

What if you miss all the warning signs and the power steering goes out while you’re driving?

Don’t panic. The important thing is to slow the car down and remove yourself from traffic. Turn on your blinkers to signal moving over to the side of the road. You can turn on your hazards as well, further indicating to those around you that you have a problem.

Don’t stomp on the brakes. Depending on how fast the car is going, this could send you into a tailspin. And without the ability to steer, this could put you in a hazardous situation. Brake slowly and move over to the side.

Once you get the car stopped, turn the car off and on again. Test the wheel, can you move it easier? Sometimes the act of turning the car off can reset your system. This may give you the chance to move your car from traffic and get it in to our shop as quickly as you can. If you still notice problems, your best bet is to call for a tow truck.

Keep Your Power Steering In Good Health

Like all systems, your best bet is to keep your power steering system in the best shape possible to avoid potential problems when you least expect it. If you can’t remember the last time your power steering fluid was changed, maybe now is the time.

Use our coupon for a power steering flush. We’ll ensure everything is working the way it should, to keep you and your family safe every time you get into your car and head out into traffic.

Change Your Oil, Drivers!

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As engine technology advances, recommended oil change intervals have gotten longer.  High quality oil in a well-engineered engine has led to extended intervals.

Here’s the problem:  With longer oil change intervals, it’s extremely important to follow them closely.  Back in the day of 3 months or 3,000 miles, if you went an extra month or an extra thousand miles, your oil was still fresh enough that it didn’t have time to build up much sludge.

But if your recommended interval is 6,500 miles and you go over another thousand, you’re getting into heavy sludge territory.  This can cause big problems.

You absolutely need to follow mileage intervals on changing your oil very closely.  And don’t forget your severe service schedule.  If you do a lot of stop and go driving, short trips, drive in dusty or polluted conditions, hot or cold weather, or haul heavy loads, you’re driving in severe service conditions.  Is your driving closer to the regular schedule or the severe service schedule?  It’s your call as the driver to decide when to change your oil to protect your engine.

If your car came from the factory with synthetic oil, the recommended oil change interval is for synthetic oil.  If you use conventional oil, you shouldn’t be using the synthetic oil interval – you need to shorten it.

Service advisers often report that when they talk to a driver with 200,000 miles or more on their vehicle, the vehicle owner will say their secret is changing the oil on time.  Please don’t skip an oil change.  Once sludge has started to build up, it’s tough to get it out.  So don’t let that happen to you!  Change your oil, drivers!

Car Doesn’t Start? Is It The Battery or the Alternator?

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Nothing is worse than going out to your car, turning the key, and nothing happens. You hear a slight click-click noise, but nothing happens. And if you try it again and again, even that stops.

You had plans! Now what?

If your car doesn’t start, it’s a sign that something is wrong with your starting system. It could be caused by several things, including:

  • A dying or dead battery
  • A bad alternator
  • Loose or corroded connection cables

But first, before we determine where your problem lies, it’s important to understand the differences between the alternator and the battery, and what they each do.Car Doesn’t Start? Is It The Battery or the Alternator?

The Alternator

Think of your car’s alternator as the power generator that supplies energy throughout the vehicle’s charging system. All vehicles using an internal combustion engine use an alternator.

When the engine is running, the alternator kicks into gear, charging the battery and supplying energy throughout the electrical system.

It’s bolted to the engine and is driven by a serpentine belt.

The Battery

Your car’s battery is what keeps it running. It stores energy and transforms it into power as needed.

Yet a car battery is different than other batteries you use around your home, such as in a watch or your television remote. With a car battery, the greatest thrust of power is at the time you turn the key. It needs maximum current for a short period of time to jolt the vehicle into action.

That’s known as an SLI battery. SLI stands for starting, lighting, and ignition. It sends short bursts of energy to power your lights and other accessories. But one the engine comes to life, the power to keep the car running is supplied by the alternator.

If your car is still relatively new, most vehicles are equipped with a generic SLI battery. They aren’t designed for optimum use, or for long life.

My Car Doesn’t Start – Why?

When the alternator starts to fail, the battery jumps into action and starts picking up the slack. No matter how good your car’s battery is, it isn’t designed for this level of use. It will eventually wear down, and leave you stranded somewhere along your journey.

Car batteries are not intended for long term power supply. When your car doesn’t start, it’s easy to assume it’s the battery’s fault. But there’s an easy way to determine where the problem really lies.

Jumpstart your car with a set of jumper cables. Remove them as quickly as possible once your car comes to life. Then wait.

If the car continues to run, it was likely a problem with the battery.

If the car soon dies, you’ve pinpointed it’s a problem with your alternator.

Even if you get the battery running again, keep in mind that this might be a temporary thing. Something caused the car to stop working in the first place. Even a jump start might not keep it running for very long.

You can test the battery with a voltmeter to determine its life.

What Else Should You Watch For?

Because the alternator is critical to keeping your car’s electrical system working the way it should, any mechanical problem can be a sign that something is going on with the alternator.

In newer cars, everything is computerized. You’ll have warning lights for just about anything mechanical in the system. If a problem exists with your alternator, you’ll most likely see a warning light shaped like a battery flip on. Some may also blink “ALT” or “GEN” instead. This light is telling you the car has a voltage problem. It’s in the early stages of failure.

Most alternators require 13 to 14 volts to operate your vehicle effectively. Too little, and your car will have problems working. Too much, and it will corrode the system.

You might notice other things not working as well as they once did. Since the alternator supplies electrical current, you might notice your headlights dimming, not as bright as they once were. You might notice your dash lights begin to fade. Maybe your tachometer stops working. Or the heated seats turn off before its time.

This is your car’s way of compensating for a problem. It’s putting energy to the one place that matters most – keeping your car running while warning you to pull over and stop the car.

It might also be broken or loose connections.

Electricity from your alternator runs through a series of cables and wires. If there are any problems with these cables, wires, or connections, it can stop the energy from moving from one point to another. This symptom is often accompanied by a burning smell as well. If too much power is generated to one spot, it will produce higher voltage, in effect “cooking” one area of the system. It gives off a distinct smell that warns you of potential problems.

We’ve also had cars come in with starting problems, only to discover it’s a problem under the hood. If a belt brakes, it can hang off the engine block, flapping around as you operate your vehicle. It may be missing altogether. Broken or loose belts are pretty easy to spot; open up the hood and take a peek. Even if you aren’t skilled in auto mechanics, you can usually spot a potential problem.

Because every car is different, it’s best to get in tune with your car. Watch – listen – smell – those should be things you do every time you’re in your car.

Watch for signs that something is wrong. Do you see lights on the dashboard? Do you see things that aren’t working the way they once did? Is something harder to turn? Or do certain functions disappear?

Listen for any new noise that wasn’t there before. Pay attention to clinks, buzzes, hisses, and bangs. If there isn’t a logical explanation for it, it might be your car’s way of telling you something is wrong.

Likewise, a new smell is telling you something isn’t working the way it should. You have something spilling, overflowing, leaking, or disappearing. And when each piece of your car doesn’t have the proper tools to do its job, it’s going to find a way to do it anyway it can.

Have you noticed something new with your car? Don’t let it go. At the first sign of trouble, bring your car in and let’s diagnose the problem. If could be the difference between a minor repair and a major overhaul.

Serpentine Belt Replacement

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Your serpentine belt is a long belt that’s driven by your engine.  It winds around several accessories that power important automotive systems.  Let’s go over them.

  • First, the serpentine belt drives your air conditioning system.
  • Next, the belt powers the alternator.
  • The serpentine belt may also run the pumps for both the power steering and power brakes.  In some vehicles, power steering may have an electric drive and power brakes can be vacuum driven.
  • On many vehicles, the serpentine belt powers the water pump ( on some cars, the water pump is powered by the timing belt).

Your service technician can perform a visual inspection of the belt to see if it has any cracks that signal the belt could fail soon and also measure the amount of belt material to make sure there is enough.

There’s a special, spring-loaded pulley attached to the engine called the tensioner pulley and sometimes an extra pulley called the idler pulley.  Their job is to make sure there’s a constant tension on the serpentine belt so that it doesn’t slip.  The spring can become worn and no longer provide the necessary pressure to keep the belt tight.  That’s why it’s often recommended that the tensioner, and the idler pulley, if so equipped, be replaced at the same time as the serpentine belt.

All in all, the serpentine belt’s an important part for the function of your vehicle and it’s not as expensive to replace as you might think.  So it’s good to do your serpentine belt replacement before it fails.

Give us a call and let us help you.

How Long Does It Take A Mechanic To Replace A Transmission?

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When you get in your car, turn the key, and everything runs smoothly, it’s easy to forget how many moving pieces are in your vehicle. But when your engine fires up and you hear noises, or your car runs rougher than normal, that’s when the questions begin.

  • What’s wrong?
  • Will I get safely to my final destination?
  • Is it something I can live with, or do I need to bring it into the shop right away?How Long Does It Take A Mechanic To Replace A Transmission?

Some things are easily remedied. Others, every time you start and move your car, you risk further damaging parts and systems.

Most cars on the road today have an automatic transmission. That means your car automatically switches gears as you increase and decrease your speed, without having to manually shift to get there. It allows you to focus on the road instead of worrying about what gear you’re in. Suffice to say, your transmission is an important system to make your car run properly.

Like other parts on your car, wear and tear can take its toll on the transmission. Eventually, it will stop working and leave you stranded unless it receives proper care along the way.

How do you know if your transmission is failing? 

  • Your transmission is slipping – Listen to your car as it switches gears. Does it feel like it’s changing gears at the wrong time?
  • Shift sticking – Is it increasingly harder to move out of park, to reverse, and to drive? If it feels like the gears are sticking, it’s a sign your transmission is failing.
  • Transmission fluid leak – Your transmission fluid should never leak. If you notice fluid beneath your car when you drive away, that’s a sign that it’s time for maintenance.

Like any other vehicle problem, the first step is having one of our repair technicians diagnose the problem and determine if parts can be repaired, or if they will need replacement.

Repair is easier and will take less time. Often, parts can be replaced quite easily, and you can drive away knowing you’ve stopped the problem in its tracks, and you’ll have many more miles down the road before you need to replace them altogether.

But in some cases, the damage is so severe, replacement is your only option. While transmissions can last a long time, they aren’t infallible. Other parts within the system fail too, causing more severe problems. In this case, your best course of action is to replace the transmission.

How long does it take to replace a transmission?

Even the sound of it makes you shake your head with worry. How can you go days without a car? What are your options while your car is in the shop?

The good news is quite often, it doesn’t take more than a day or two to replace a transmission. Of course, it depends on the model and make of your car, and the type of transmission it is. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle that’s commonplace on the road, plan on being without your vehicle at least a day or two. If you have a front-wheel drive, the process can take longer as it’s quite labor-intensive. Estimate up to three to four days to ensure you give yourself plenty of time.

Better yet, stop by. The best way to get an estimate of how long it will take to replace a transmission is for us to see what type of vehicle you’re driving. Only then can we give you an accurate picture of how long it will take.

How often should I change my transmission fluid?

What makes your transmission run effectively is the transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is a slippery liquid that helps lubricate the gears. With an automatic transmission, it also acts as a coolant, and transmits power from the engine to the transmission.

Transmission isn’t as commonplace as gas or oil. You don’t replace it on a regular basis, such as with motor oil or windshield washer fluid. But it is part of routine maintenance for your vehicle, to ensure it has the longest life possible.

Most manufacturers of cars with manual transmissions suggest replacement of transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Manufacturers of vehicles with automatic transmissions suggest 60,000 to 100,000. In some cases, the transmission fluid never has to be replaced at all – doing so will actually cause more harm than good.

The biggest reason it should be changed is because of contamination over time. Every time you use your car, the systems kick into gear. Bearings and gears move and rotate. Parts start to wear out. Microscopic pieces of metal infiltrate the transmission oil, and shorten the life of your transmission. If the fluid isn’t clean, it can’t do its job as effectively as it did when it was new. Each piece corrodes the fluid a little bit more, until damage of other parts begins.

If you don’t change it regularly, you will shorten the transmission’s life. If you aren’t sure when it was last replaced, a good place to start is with a maintenance visit, where we check your entire system and make sure everything is operating in good condition. It will ensure that you can drive safely in the near future, and that every part is operating as it should.

Note: Transmission fluid isn’t like motor oil. Transmission fluid doesn’t burn up. If you are low on transmission fluid, you have a leak somewhere in the system. It’s time to fix it to avoid potential problems.

Know your options

There are a lot of ways to proceed when it’s time to replace your transmission. Your first choice isn’t always to install a new one. In some cases, rebuilding is a perfect solution. Replacing just part of the system can have you back on the road as good as new.

The key is to find a good repair shop to help you make your decision. We understand your transmission going out probably wasn’t in your budget plans.

We can give you all of your options and help you make the right choice for your situation. Our goal is to get you back on the road safely, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. We’ll give you great advice, and help you make the right decision.

Stop by today for a free estimate. We look forward to working with you.

What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Broken Struts

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Every car, truck, SUV, or crossover has a suspension system. It’s the parts of a car that hold your vehicle off the ground, protects passengers and cargo, and gives the vehicle its ability to make turns as you drive around.

The suspension system contains parts you are very aware of – your tires and wheels. It also contains things you probably don’t pay much attention to – springs, shocks and struts.

Every part on your car starts wearing out the moment you drive it off the showroom floor. And as this wear happens, your car won’t perform the way it once did. You might notice it doesn’t turn as sharp as it once did. You might feel as if your vehicle is a little more squirmy on rainy roads.What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Broken Struts

That’s your car warning you that something is wrong. And if you don’t act quickly, a bigger problem is about to materialize.

What is a car strut?

Your car’s suspension system wouldn’t exist without struts. Stuts are the part that hold your vehicle off the ground. Without them, it would fall to the pavement.

Sturts lock together many different parts of the suspension system. They connect to the coil spring and shock absorber. They connect to the steering mechanism. They provide support to help shock absorbers support the weight of the vehicle and give it the smooth ride you expect.

You’ll often find the terms “shocks and struts” used interchangeably. But there are subtle differences. The only job a shock has is to stabilize the car. It keeps it from bouncing around. The car would still be able to drive if the shocks went out.

Is it safe to drive a car with bad struts?

When your struts wear down, they do more than give you an uncomfortable ride. They also present safety risks that can increase your chances of an accident. Worn struts can increase the amount of time it takes to stop your vehicle, especially in adverse weather conditions. If the streets are wet from snow or rain, you’ll need more distance for stopping with a worn out strut.

Struts also help stabilize the car. Every time you make a turn, your car’s struts are there to provide stability for the action. While that might not seem that important when you’re making a right hand turn into your neighborhood, increase the speed, and try a hairpin turn at highway speeds. That puts you, your riders, and the other vehicles around you at increased risk.

Of course, struts aren’t something that wear out quickly. You don’t have to replace them on a regular schedule like you do an oil change or new wiper blades. It depends on several things, including the model and make of your car, plus the amount of wear and tear you put on your car every day. Someone who drives up and down the mountain for work and play every day is going to be different from someone who drives two minutes to work and back.

Under normal conditions, you might be able to get 75,000 to 100,000 miles before you notice a change. With heavier use, you might start noticing problems at 50,000. Like most parts on your vehicle, the answer to “when I should replace it” is “it depends.”

What are the symptoms of bad struts?

Struts won’t wear out overnight. Instead, it’s a gradual process over time. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to how your car drives, especially as it ages.

Every time you hit a bump in the road, or hit a pothole that makes you cringe from the jarring effect, your struts wear down a little at a time. And eventually, they start talking back.

Here are a few warning signs that your struts need replacing.

The nose of the car dips when braking. Have you ever punched on the brakes when someone cuts you off, only to feel the nose of the car dips down more than it should? That’s a problem with the struts.

Highway speeds are a little more intimidating. Do you feel that shimmy when you reach certain speeds? Have you pressed your car from 60 to 70, only to bring it back down because of the shake? That’s your struts talking. They aren’t providing the same stability they once did.

The tires wear unevenly. When the struts are going out, they’ll apply different amounts of pressure to the tires. You’ll see the tread wearing away in unique ways, giving each tire an uneven wear pattern.

The tires bounce with every dip in the road. Every time you hit a bump, it will feel as if the car is bouncing to recover. You might also hear a clunking noise along with it.

You’ll notice a pull when you take turns, especially at higher speeds. The car will feel wobbly going into the turn and recovering back to driving straight.

You may also notice fluid leaks. When this happens, it’s a sign that the seal has broken and the fluids that make your suspension system work is escaping. The more the system operates without proper fluid levels, the more damage may be done to your suspension system.

How do I buy new struts?

If you’re not sure if your struts need replacing, the best place to start is by taking your car in for servicing. Our goal is to ensure your car is safe to drive. We’ll give you all of your options and help you make the right decision for your vehicle.

Like everything in life, you get what you pay for. Adding new struts to your vehicle isn’t a DIY project.

Ensure you purchase quality, brand name struts. You have choices, depending on how you drive. Some will be a little stiffer for better performance, something that may be important if you like feeling the curves of the road. Others are better for comfort, and will ensure you enjoy the ride.

It’s also important to discuss other parts of the suspension system while making a decision about your struts. The struts are just one piece of the suspension system. If your struts are worn out, there’s a good chance other parts are as well, like the bearing mounts or the shock boots.

Whatever you do, don’t neglect your struts. Stop by as soon as you have questions about their safety. It can help give you a better ride, and get you back on the road, enjoying the experience once again.

Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

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It’s hard to ignore that your car needs gas to operate. If you don’t add more when the gas tank is low, you run out. And when that happens, your car stops working. It comes to a grinding halt, and you’re stuck wherever it happens … until you fill up the gas tank once again.

But what about car oil? It works in a similar manner. Your car needs oil to operate. If it runs out, your car will cease to operate. And a lot of damage will occur to the working parts of your car.

Yet a lot of car owners are ignoring this important fluid. If they have a newer car, they assume the electronics will tell them when things aren’t working. They drive and drive, almost waiting for a problem to slow them down.Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

As a result, repair shops all over are finding more vehicles than ever are coming in with engine damage. If the engine doesn’t have the proper fluids, it operates as best it can. Until it can’t. And a lot of problems occur in between.

What does car oil do?

For a car to operate as it should, it’s important to perform routine maintenance. That consists of an oil change, draining the old oil out and replacing it with fresh, new oil. An oil filter is usually replaced at the same time.

Cars have lots of moving parts in them. They are designed to move together, causing friction and heat. Car oil lubricates the engine and absorbs this heat, which lets all the internal parts work together without the chance of overheating.

This, of course, is a constant process of sending the oil throughout different parts of the engine, collecting dust, dirt, and other particles as it performs its task. The older it gets, the more it breaks down, unable to perform as it was originally intended. It becomes less effective at lubricating all the parts within the engine.

How often should you change car oil?

That depends on what car you drive.

Every owner’s manual for every car manufacturer will list specific guidelines for how often you should replace your oil. Be aware that not every motor oil is the same. You can’t run to your local discount store and pick up a can of oil and expect it to work for your vehicle. In fact, doing so can be downright dangerous.

According to the American Petroleum Institute, there are many different motor oils for sale in retail locations for the average DIYer that will cause more harm to your engine than good.

Your car requires a certain type of oil created for how your vehicle was built. This is where following manufacturers guidelines is an important part of your car’s maintenance routine. American built cars have different requirements than European cars, with the latter often requiring more rigid specifications.

When it comes to your motor oil, err on the side of selecting the best. Pay attention to what the car’s designers have to say, because it can help you avoid a costly mistake.

What is synthetic car oil?

Even if you have an older car, we think an upgraded oil is still beneficial for your car. Here’s why you should consider moving to a synthetic car oil.

Synthetic oil is made from natural gas or crude oil that goes through a rigorous process to convert it to motor oil. This process makes all of the molecules uniform in size. That means it flows through your car more uniformly. It reduces the amount of friction produced as it operates, reducing the wear on your engine.

If you use name brand, higher quality motor oil, you’ll have a better product. And with a better product means your engine will have a longer life. Is it worth a few dollars now to keep your car running well for years to come?

But what about older cars? Should you always buy upgraded oil? 

If you have a car and it’s been going strong for over 100,000 miles, it’s hard to argue that it’s been working fine with more conventional motor oil. Why not give it just the basic grade?

As your car ages, it starts showing signs of wear. Even the parts you can’t see unless you really look.

That may be precisely why it’s a good idea to upgrade your motor oil. Giving it a far superior product now means you’ll be giving it better fuel for operating. You know how you feel better when you eat, right? It’s the same for your vehicle; give it a higher quality product, and it will perform better over time.

What should I watch for to determine when I should change the oil?

Now that you know why your car needs motor oil and what you should be putting in, how do you know it’s time?

Mileage

Check your vehicle’s owner manual. Manufacturers list how often you should change your motor oil based on how many miles you put onto your car. This is a good guideline to follow to ensure you’re changing your oil regularly.

Dates

It’s also a good idea to pay attention to how you drive. Have you taken a road trip recently? Have you put on excessive miles in a short period of time? Or has your car been stuck away in a garage for months as you work from home? Paying attention to what you do in between oil changes will ensure your car always receives fresh oil.

Check engine light

Never ignore the little lights that pop on your dashboard. They illuminate for a reason. Some cars have oil change lights, while others may flash “check engine” instead. Proceed to your mechanic as soon as possible to avoid bigger problems.

Noise

Motor oil provides lubrication, a protective layer as engine parts move and operate. If it doesn’t have enough to do its job, you’re going to start hearing noises. That knocking, banging, clanging, or rumbling noise is trying to tell you something. Don’t ignore it.

Does your car show signs of needing an oil change? Make your appointment today.

The Most Damaged Suspension System Car Parts When You Hit Potholes

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You’ve probably heard the joke that in Colorado, there are four seasons: fall, winter, spring, and construction. Yes, summer is a great time to get out of the house and enjoy lots of sunny days and warm weather. But driving around town can leave you a little agitated at best.

It’s hard to miss the number of potholes that lurk all over town. They may start out small, but they quickly grow into a car-eating disaster.The Most Damaged Suspension System Car Parts When You Hit Potholes

Potholes are caused by the expansion and contraction of water. As cracks occur in the pavement, water leaks down underneath. On cold days it freezes. Think of it like an ice cube; it moves from a puddle of water to a solid, frozen shape. That pushes and shoves the pavement in new directions.

Then on warm days, it thaws. The water moves to new locations, penetrating even more of the uneven pavement. It flows into new cracks, and takes up more space.

Over and over this occurs, all winter long.

Of course, that’s not the only thing that helps a pothole grow. Especially on a busy road, cars and trucks drive over it, pounding the pavement in all sorts of directions. The weight makes the material weaker, breaks it off, and causes it to move in new ways. The more this occurs, the larger the pothole grows.

Colorado has thousands of miles of paved roads weaving in and out of some of the most beautiful country in the world. If you haven’t had the chance to drive across this state, try picking one from this list and enjoy the breathtaking views.

As you round each corner and move up and down the hills, try and avoid the potholes at all costs. Brace yourself when you simply can’t. And understand the impact each pothole has on your car parts, the damage it creates on your vehicle’s suspension system. By being aware, you can learn when it’s time to bring your car into our shop and get the suspension fixed before further damage can occur.

What a pothole can do to your car

When your car hits a pothole, it’s usually the pothole that will win. It can damage your tires and wheels, cause alignment issues, or even cause premature wear to your shocks. When you hit a pothole, it can damage:

  • Your wheels – it can bend or even crack wheel rims
  • Your tires – flat tires, uneven wear, and weakened belts and cords
  • Your alignment – ever noticed your car pulling to one side or the other?
  • Your suspension system – it can impact shocks, struts, springs, and more
  • Your exhaust system – cracks, leaks, and holes can put you at risk

That damage adds up to quite a lot – according to AAA auto club, over $3 billion a year.

How do you know if your car has been damaged by a pothole?

Here in Colorado, it’s hard to avoid potholes. But pay attention to the ones that make you cringe and groan. You know when you hit an especially bad one. It rattles the entire car. And once this happens, be on the lookout for these things:

  • Do you have to turn your steering wheel so it’s crooked to stay straight on the road? It’s a sign the steering component is bent.
  • Do you notice excessive bouncing and loss of control as you drive? It’s a sign of steering and suspension issues.
  • Have you noticed pulling to one side or uneven tire wear? It’s a sign of problems with your alignment.
  • Are there bulges on tire sidewalls or dents in the wheel? It’s symptoms of tire damage.
  • Do you notice a vibration in your steering wheel? It’s a sign of a bent rim.
  • Do you find fluids underneath your car when you pull away? It could be a signal of a line or hose that’s cracked, wiggled loose, or no longer functioning.
  • Is your exhaust system noisier than normal? It could be a result of damage from the undercarriage of your car scraping because of the pothole.

What if you think you’ve sustained damage after hitting a pothole?

Or course, it depends on what the damage is. Some damage is more dire than others. If you don’t come in with some issues, it can put you at risk for more serious damage, or for an accident.

You should never take your car for granted. You should always take the approach of “listen, sense, and look.”

Every time you start your car, listen for sounds that weren’t there before. Do you hear a new rattle? Do you hear a new clank? Each of these sounds is trying to tell you that something is wrong with your car. Do a little sleuthing and find out exactly where it’s coming from. Even if you can’t determine the exact cause, it will help you be able to talk more clearly with your mechanic when you bring your vehicle in.

Gain a good sense for what your car feels like every time you take it out on the road. Learn how the steering feels as you make turns and keep your car on the road. Do you notice different movements, especially at varying speeds? Do things change on the highway? Do things change when you come to a stop? Note these differences and describe them when you come into the shop.

You should also make a periodic overview of your car, both inside and out. Just like a pilot makes a full check before he pulls the plane out and flies it to the next destination, so too should you do a thorough investigation once in awhile, to ensure everything looks okay. Glance under the car, do you see part of the exhaust system hanging free? Do the tires look deflated or flat? When you pop the hood, does something appear to be out of place?

You don’t need a certificate in auto mechanics to notice when something is wrong with your car. And considering how important your suspension system is to the way your car behaves on the road, it’s one of the most important systems to watch.

How many potholes have you hit this year? Isn’t it time to make sure your suspension system is fully working, and won’t cause you problems down the road?

Signs Your Car Needs A New Transmission

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Every day as you drive, dozens of parts come together to ensure your car gets you where you’re going. When everything is working, it’s a smooth ride, one you can depend on.

But over time, things change. You notice bumps in the road. You hear squeaks and squeals. You may even see things slowly starting to fail.

Your car doesn’t fall apart overnight. It never fails without warning signs. If you watch and listen carefully, you’ll notice when things start to break.Signs Your Car Needs A New Transmission

Are there signs your car needs a new transmission? Can you tell before your car fails?

In most cases, the answer is yes. Your car gives off warning signs, and the sooner you bring it into a qualified transmission specialist, the higher your chance of catching it early and lowering the overall costs of the repair.

The key is in not ignoring the warning signs. They are there for a reason. Catch it early, and you might only have a small repair. Wait, and the costs can build as time goes by.

Warning signs your car needs a new transmission include:

Problems shifting gears

It doesn’t matter if your car is manual or automatic, it still shifts into several gears as it takes you from resting up to speed, and back down again. Every time it shifts, it should be a smooth transition. When you start noticing changes, a roughness in the process, that’s a sign your transmission might be in need of repair.

Pay attention to the process. Do you notice:

  • Hesitation as you try and put the car into gear
  • Jerking action as the car shifts between gears
  • A sudden shift in gears for no reason
  • Trouble with reverse
  • Falling out of gear while you’re driving

All of these can be signs your car needs a new transmission. It’s time to bring your vehicle in for servicing right away.

Grinding between gears

With a manual transmission, you can feel when there’s a problem with the gears. As you press down on the clutch, and try to shift from one gear to the next, you hear a grinding sound. The process is anything but smooth. It’s difficult to move from gear to gear.

But it’s not just manual transmissions that have problems. Instead of a grinding noise, automatic transmissions may start to shake or shimmy between shifts as it starts to fail.

It may be the clutch failing. It might be a simple repair. But the longer you ignore it, the more it persists, the more problems you’ll face when you do bring it in for repair.

Whining noises

Have you ever stood next to a vehicle that has a whining, buzzing, or clicking sound while standing in neutral? That can be a sign of transmission failure.

As parts fail, they impact the transmission in different ways. Transmissions are made up of lots of parts: pumps, clutches, bands, sensors, valves, even transmission fluid to keep everything running smoothly. Every part has a purpose. And if one part starts to fail, it can cause a host of other problems.

That’s when noises start to occur. Let’s say your transmission fluid is low. That can cause a ripple effect throughout the vehicle, making bands weaken, clutches tighten up, gears not able to work properly. If you correct the problem quickly, you stop the action from deteriorating the parts any further. The longer you wait, the more damage occurs. When you hear a new noise and it persists, it’s time to quickly find out the root cause.

Cloudy transmission fluid

When transmission fluid is brand new, it has a bright red color and a distinctive sweet smell. If you’ve never seen it before, ask your mechanic about it the next time you visit. Over time, transmission fluid goes through a lot as it keeps the action in your transmission operating as it should.

When you start to see changes in looks, it could be the transmission fluid. If you look at it and it appears dark, or has a milky, cloudy look, it’s a sign the transmission fluid can no longer do what it’s supposed to do.

Burning odor

Not only does transmission fluid change color over time, but it also creates a distinctive smell. When the gears overheat because of excessive friction, it starts to produce a burning smell. You’ll notice it when you turn your car off and open the door. If the transmission has reached this point, it’s time to bring it in for repair, and it’s probably time for a new transmission.

Leaking transmission fluid

As your transmission continues to fail, it starts to develop leaks. Whether you park it regularly in a garage, your driveway, or in a parking spot at work, pay attention to what’s left behind when you drive away. Do you see the red fluid leaving spots? It doesn’t matter if it looks red and clean, or has already taken on a cloudy appearance, a leak isn’t something you should tolerate. Instead, a leak is a sign of a very big problem.

It doesn’t mean your transmission is going bad, but there is a problem with the flow of transmission fluid. The quicker you get it in, the faster you repair the problem, the greater chance you have of saving your transmission.

That can mean the difference between a small repair and adding new transmission fluid, or a costly investment in a new transmission.

Have questions about your transmission? Is your car showing warning signs it might be in need of repair? Schedule an appointment today, and we’ll get to the root cause, and get you on your way.

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