Car Maintenance | Express Car Care of Denver

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.

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.

Are Suspension Systems Different In Pickup Trucks Than In Cars?

February 18, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Since the very first horseless carriage was created, focus has been placed on creating a smooth ride. Imagine the first vehicle hitting a rock or a dip in the road – there wasn’t pavement back when the first vehicle was moving around.

Every bump moved from the wheels into the car, jostling the passengers around.

As more cars were built and sold, more time was spent on keeping the passengers safe, comfortable, and happy. Suspension systems are designed to provide each of these things and more.

What is a suspension system?

The suspension system includes all of the parts in the body of the car that allow it to connect with the road – wheels, tires, brakes – as well as the parts that help each of those systems operate – springs, shock absorbers, and other hardware. A suspension system is designed to support the weight of the vehicle, to absorb the shock that comes up into the vehicle with every bump and movement it makes, as well as provide a pivot point for the wheels. Its ultimate goal is to provide passengers with a smooth ride, while keeping you and the vehicle safe during the process.

A suspension system works to absorb the shock when you hit a bump, as well as to decrease the impact sent up through the axel and into the passenger section. The two are connected, yet through a variety of components, it’s designed to lessen the impact. How this occurs often determines the comfort level of the vehicle. This is where trucks and cars move apart.

Front end suspension systems

Most passenger cars and light trucks on the market today use a front suspension system. This includes a conventional coil spring, a Torsion Bar, and MacPherson Strut systems. You’ll find full-sized vehicles use a coil spring or the torsion bar systems frequently, while struts are more widely used on import vehicles and newer domestic vehicles.

No matter how it’s constructed, all suspension systems are designed for the same function – they support the vehicle to maintain proper wheel alignment, to connect with the road efficiently, and to absorb road shock as it moves up through the tires. How this is accomplished may change from system to system, but the final impact is always the same.

A coil spring system works by supporting the weight of the vehicle on coil springs and controlling impact by spring weight. The springs are mounted on either the upper or lower control arm, which also determines where the ball joint will be placed. The load-carrying ball joint is always on the same control arm with the spring.

With the torsion bar system, the vehicle’s weight is supported by the twisting of the bar. The torsion bar performs the same function from above as the coil spring in the vehicle.

With the MacPherson struts, the shock absorber, coil spring, and axis pivot have all been combined into one strut assembly. The weight of the vehicle is supported at the top of the spring plate, while the shock absorber dampens vibrations as the coil spring controls the ride.

Rear suspension systems

Most read wheel drive vehicles on the road today use a leaf spring and coil spring suspension.

They are designed with a solid axle that has some of the same characteristics as a solid axle front system. But the difference lies in movement – the rear wheels don’t pivot. Because more cars are coming with front wheel drive systems, you’ll also find more independent rear suspension systems. They offer improved performance and better control overall.

With a leaf spring system, the control arms are eliminated. A U-bolt connects the springs to the axle, which in turn connects the spring to the frame.

With a coil spring system, the coils sit on the axle housing on the underside of the vehicle. Movement is handled through control arms.

With an independent rear system, it’s used on a non-solid axle. This means that the vehicle will pivot independently based on suspension movement. This encourages better traction, since the wheels have flexibility in the angles they turn to as the wheels turn and move. This provides better acceleration and braking, and less resistance overall.

While independent systems provide better driving ability, it also adds more wearability to your vehicle. Because the wheels act independently of one another, each side must be aligned to the other, as well as to both front wheels. More parts, more servicing, which ultimately means more cost. But for increased safety, it’s worth the effort.

Car vs truck – what’s the difference?

Every car and truck is designed as the manufacturer chooses to produce it. Traditionally manufacturers used a leaf spring layout for the suspension system because they felt it was the safest for heavy loads. However, rules are always meant to be broken, and many have deviated and tried other things.

While most cars on the road today will use front and rear independent suspension systems for maximum control and comfort, many trucks also move to live axles placed at all four wheels.

It’s the shock absorbers’ job to control the axle’s motion as it takes in every bump in the road. For a truck, this task requires different degrees of control, which requires a heavier duty component the more weight you carry.

Trucks also have other considerations for the way they move. Many trucks need ground clearance and lift kits to ensure they navigate safely over rough roads. That means the suspension system must be longer to travel and up and down with every bump it takes in.

Off-road driving can also increase heat. The shock absorber must be able to dissipate that heat as it’s generated in each of the conditions you may put it through. From hauling to off-roading, the suspension system has to be ready for the job at hand.

When was the last time you had your suspension system thoroughly evaluated, to ensure your comfort and your safety? Suspension systems send out early warning signals about potential problems. Are you paying attention to what your vehicle is trying to tell you?

Your Nose Knows Gasoline

February 15, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Each time we fuel up our vehicles, we get a little whiff of gasoline, so your nose knows the smell. There shouldn’t be any gasoline smell in or around your vehicle when you are away from the gas station. When you do smell gasoline away from the gas pump, the causes can range from something simple to something that could be very dangerous.

Let’s begin with the simple causes. It could be a loose or faulty gas cap, or you might be missing one entirely. You may also have a leak in the fuel tank vent hose. These are relatively straightforward things to repair. By the way, because your vehicle has fans that draw in outside air, you may be able to smell these outside gasoline leaks inside the cabin.

Here are some other possible sources of a gasoline smell. You could have a leak in your fuel tank, and these are more common than you might think. Fuel tanks can rot or get punctures by road debris. The tank can be fixed or replaced.

The fuel lines can also deteriorate or be damaged by road debris. Vehicles with fuel injectors have high pressure in their fuel lines, so any small holes or leaks can allow vaporized gasoline to escape, sometimes near hot engine parts. Obviously, this is something that a technician should repair as soon as possible.

Another couple of causes of a gasoline smell? A leak near a fuel injector can also allow small amounts of gasoline to escape. A technician can replace the seals or O-rings if they have deteriorated. Also, you could have gasoline leaking out of your vehicle’s charcoal canister, which is a device that prevents evaporating gasoline vapors inside your fuel tank from venting out to the atmosphere. This will often cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate.

Gasoline fumes and leaks can be dangerous for a couple of reasons; they could be a fire hazard and inhaling fumes can cause health problems. It’s always wise to get fuel leaks checked out at your auto repair center as soon as possible.

Maintenance Tips Before You Tow a Camper Behind Your Pickup

February 3, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Planning your first camping trip of the season? Want to make sure your pickup is in great shape before you add the camper behind?

Towing that extra weight can be a big deal, especially if you are up and down the mountain regularly. Hauling is a big deal. Even newer pickups can have trouble if your vehicle isn’t prepared for the added stress.

Whether you’ve been towing for years, or you’ve just purchased a pickup and camper and are excited about your first trip, it’s important to ensure your safety before you go.

Start with your owner’s manual

It may sound like simplistic advice, but the best place to start is with your pickup owner’s manual. The owner’s manual can tell you things about hauling that you may not know, like the maximum load limit, and any special recommendations associated with towing.

Towing takes a new set of skills. There’s a process for hitching and unhitching a trailer, as well as know-how for how to drive in traffic with the added length and weight of your vehicle. Do you understand the process? If not, you could be putting yourself, your passengers, and everyone around you at risk.

Check your hitch

Whether your hitch is brand new, or you’ve been using it for years, this is something you don’t use on a daily basis. Are the parts still in good shape? Is the connection solid? Be sure to check all light connections, making sure they are visible when you use your controls.

Check your tires

Start with your pickup and ensure your tires have proper pressure, have ample tread, and are weighted and balanced correctly. A lot of drivers pay attention to their pickups, but forget their camper or trailers. It’s equally important to check all tires, as a blowout at any point can put you at risk.

Is your camper stored outside? If it hasn’t operated in a few months, especially sitting here in the Colorado cold, ice, and snow, dry rot and cracking is always a potential problem. Even if your tires appear to have plenty of tread, it’s still a good idea to give them a full inspection to ensure their safety and yours.

Think about potential problems

The good thing about hitting the open road and pulling a camper behind your pickup is you can go wherever the road takes you. The problem arises when you’re in the middle of nowhere and are stuck because you didn’t think ahead.

Do you have a spare tire just in case something happens to one of them? Consider your truck and your camper when you pack spares. Do you have the proper tools – a missing lug wrench could leave you walking for miles. While your extra planning might not be necessary, you’ll be thankful you spent the extra time if you need anything from your aid kit while out on the road.

Always get a maintenance check first

Towing puts added stress on a vehicle. Instead of hoping your pickup will do okay throughout the trip, bring it in for a thorough inspection to ensure your safety while you’re gone. Inspections should include an oil change, ensuring the brake pads have plenty of life remaining, and that all fluids are properly filled and operational. If there are any potential problems, one of our mechanics will bring it to your attention, giving you a chance to fix it before you hit the road.

Ensure hitch is properly supported

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 50,000 accidents occur each year because of problems with the hitch.

Some of the most common problems with hitches include:

Using the correct hitch – not only should you use the correct type of hitch for your pickup and camper, but you should also make sure that it works for your vehicles. Hitch balls typically come in three sizes: 1 ⅞ inch, 2 inches, and 2 5/16 inches. Do you have the proper connection between the two pieces? This will ensure you have a smooth drive as well as ensure that one of the pieces doesn’t sit lower to the ground, causing you problems when you hit bumps in the road.

Having a proper hitch attachment – with the correct hitch in place, ensure that the pickup and trailer are properly locked and secured and won’t be coming apart while you travel down the road. You should also ensure that proper connections are made all around, with lights functioning, brakes in place, and mirrors to allow you to see all the way around.

Weight awareness – both your pickup and camper come with weight ratings. You’ll find they list curb weight, gross vehicle weight ratings, gross combined weight ratings, gross trailer weight, and tongue weight, among others. Don’t look at one rating – curb weight, for example – and assume you’re ready to go. This can cause poor vehicle performance, give traction problems, and cause steering and braking difficulty.

Proper weight – just because your set to go with your pickup and camper weight, doesn’t mean it’ll stay that way if you load both vehicles down. A balanced load will also ensure you’re safety throughout your trip.

Change your mindset for pulling a camper

No matter how your pickup handles under normal driving conditions, that’ll change once you add a camper behind the bed. Connecting a camper behind your truck changes everything.

It’ll take more power to get the truck moving, more time to get it up to speed, and a greater distance to stop when you push on the brakes. If you don’t take each of these into account, you put everyone at greater risk.

Driving changes mean you’ll have to be more prepared for all conditions. If you brake quickly, you risk causing both steering and braking to skip, throwing off both pieces’ centers of gravity, and risk tipping your load over. Slow and steady wins every time. That means

Slowing down in congested areas.
Always leave space around you, but especially between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Be aware of what’s happening all around you.
Allow plenty of time for passing, especially as you’re moving through the mountains. Always give yourself plenty of time for the move, and ask yourself if changing positions is really necessary.

Before you head out on your first camping trip of the season, ensure your pickup is in good working condition. Schedule your maintenance visit today.

Ball Joint Boot Replacement

February 1, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

There’s a little part on your vehicle you may not know about, but when it develops a problem, getting it fixed sooner rather than later can save you a lot of money in the long run. Have I got your attention now?

This part is called a ball joint boot. Ball joints are part of your suspension and allow your front wheels to move up and down and turn left and right. This boot covers and protects your ball joint.

Your suspension is, of course, exposed to nasty stuff getting kicked up from the road. Stuff like rocks, salt, water, dirt, and chunks of asphalt. If all that debris were constantly hitting your ball joints, they wouldn’t last very long. So someone had the bright idea to include protective “boots” that go over the ball joints. Great idea and they work…for a while. Just like every other part on our vehicles, they will need to be replaced eventually.

These boots not only protect against debris but they also protect against heat and friction. Because of this, they must be flexible. In addition to keeping contaminants out of your ball joints, they also keep lubricants in and allow the hot grease to expand. This is vital to make sure metal parts are moving smoothly.

Sometimes the ball joint boots get damaged after constant assault by road junk or temperature extremes. Other times they just get old. Rubber and other flexible materials can eventually just wear out (think of old rubber bands that break because they’re brittle from age). A regular suspension inspection will assess the condition of your ball joint boots. When your Express Car Care service adviser says there’s a problem with one of your ball joint boots, heed the warning. If they have a tear in them and aren’t replaced, lubricant can escape the ball joint and debris can get in and start creating a destructive mess.

Also keep in mind that if a ball joint is bad on one side, the other side might be on the verge of going too. Replacing both ball joints and ball joint boots at the same time saves time and money and just makes sense.

How Do You Maintain Your Car Suspension?

January 28, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

When you climbed into your car for the very first time, what did you focus on?

The way the seats folded around you, preventing you from jolting and jostling with every bump?
How quiet the car was when you took it out on the highway?
How comfortable you were as you drove at different speeds?

You can thank your car’s suspension for that.

A car’s suspension system is responsible for two things:

Creating a smooth driving experience
Keeping the car under control

This may be an innate structure of every car on the road today, but it is also something that fades over time.

A suspension system is made up of several different components:

Wheels and tires

While not everyone considers tires a part of the suspension system, we’d say it would be hard for a car to handle well without tires in place. Tires protect the wheels as you move your car over every bump in the road. They protect jarring from rattling other pieces of the suspension system loose.

Springs

Every car on the road today has a spring mechanism to absorb large bumps. They are built to take extreme pressure, and to prevent failure in other suspension components.

Shock absorbers and struts

While springs absorb bumps, shock absorbers and struts dissipate the motion and give you a smoother riding experience.

Connections

Every component of the suspension system is placed together with kinks, bushing, bearings, and joints. These connections can be made from metal, plastic, or rubber, and wear down over time.

Steering

The steering system is created from a steering box and a steering column, and allows you to gain control over your vehicle in all sorts of conditions. The type of steering system can change depending on the car you drive, with hydraulic or electric power steering systems being at the top of the list.

That’s a lot of parts!

One rule of thumb that mechanics often use is that soft parts will wear faster than hard. Rubber joints and hoses will need replacing sooner than a metal rod.

Yet every vehicle on the road today experiences driving conditions differently.

Today you might slide on a sheet of ice. A few months from now, you may sit in a traffic jam in the scorching heat. You may take a dip into a pothole at 40 miles per hour. You may hit the speed bumps in your area multiple times each day.

All of that can wear your suspension differently over time.

To keep your car in good condition, it’s important to pay attention to the various systems that make your vehicle operate smoothly. A car suspension system needs maintaining in the following ways:

Check the air in your tires – this is one of the easiest maintenance items. Properly inflated tires help protect the entire suspension system from damage. If they are under-inflated, they hurt handling and performance, and may reduce gas efficiency in the long term. If the air becomes too low, you risk safety while you drive. If you don’t have a computerized system that warns you if your tire pressure falls outside the norm, check the pressure every thousand miles or so to ensure proper inflation.

Check tire tread – as you check tire pressure, check the tread too. An easy test is often referred to as the penny test. Place a penny in one of the grooves. If you can’t cover up a portion of Lincoln’s head, you don’t have enough tread for safety. This means you’re more at risk of your vehicle moving out of control, especially in rainy, snowy, and icy conditions.

Get your wheels aligned – proper alignment means you’ll have proper handling in all driving conditions. This keeps you safely on the road in all sorts of conditions. Check your owner’s manual for guidelines on how frequently you should have your wheels aligned, keeping in mind that the rougher your daily drive, the more often it should be a part of your maintenance routine.

Check power steering fluid – if you have a hydraulic steering system, a mechanic should check fluid levels at every oil change. Power steering fluid is usually changed about every 30,000 miles or so, or you can check with your vehicle’s manufacturer for specific guidance.

Inspect shock absorbers and struts – there are a variety of telltale signs your shocks and struts are failing. If you’ve noticed your car bouncing as you drive, or diving forward as you brake, it’s time for new shocks and/or struts. Different vehicles use different systems; not every car has both shocks and struts. Check with your car’s manufacturer for guidelines on how often they should be replaced.

Have you been in an accident – even minor bumps can shake your suspension system loose. If it was strong enough to put a dent in the body of your vehicle, it’s worth having one of our mechanics check your car over. An inspection will ensure that your car is working the way it should, and will get you where you’re going safely and securely.

Pay attention to where and how you drive – even here in the Denver Metro area, people live and work in different conditions. Do you routinely drive on dirt roads? Is there a pothole-ridden road right outside your door? Do you mostly put on highway mileage, or are stop signs and stop lights a big part of your routine?

Because every component of your vehicle’s suspension system is connected and operates in a unique way, there isn’t a proper sequence of where and when things will start to fail. If one part is damaged, it can quickly accelerate problems, and impact many other parts in the suspension system.

Whether you suspect damage, aren’t sure how long it’s been since your suspension system was inspected, or are planning a major road trip in the coming weeks, make today the day you schedule an inspection to ensure your vehicle is working as it should.

Steering and Suspension Repair – What You Need To Know

January 25, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Picture driving a luxury car. Your mind instantly thinks of words like “performance” and “efficiency.” How about “a smooth ride”? That’s important too, something an owner of a luxury vehicle demands.

Now picture yourself driving an old truck. You feel every turn, every bump in the road.

Big difference, right? Yet as drivers, we understand that different vehicles are designed for different needs. You’ll experience riding differently in an expensive sports car when compared to an old truck.

But we still have expectations of how the vehicle will perform. You wouldn’t want to take a corner and have your vehicle roll. You wouldn’t want to hit a bump in the road and feel like you’re bottoming out the car. No matter if you’re in the sports car or the old pickup.

Your steering and suspension system ensure balance, stability, and smoothness of the ride. These systems ensure a comfortable ride for you and your passengers. Steering and suspension are also responsible for keeping your wheels on the ground.

How the steering and suspension systems work

Before we get into the problems your car may face with steering and suspension, it’s important to understand how they work.

Vehicles are built with one of two steering systems: reciprocating ball steering and rack and pinion steering.

Reciprocating ball steering works through a series of links and arms to ensure all four wheels turn together and at the same time. It uses a steering box to control the movement of the steering wheel and steering column, and connects it to the functionality of the wheel movement.

Rack and pinion steering connects the steering wheel and steering column to a rack, which moves a piston as the wheels turn.

The suspension system uses a series of shocks that connect your car body to the wheels. The suspension system is in control of ensuring your wheels connect with the road and giving you a smooth ride while operating the vehicle. The suspension system utilizes a variety of components, including springs, shocks, and struts that absorb the impact of the road as you drive.

What are signs of steering problems?

While some components can wear down quickly with very little warning, your steering system isn’t one of them. It will almost always give you plenty of advanced warning that something is wrong.

Don’t ignore the warning signs. Ignoring them can result in a system fail, causing an accident that will impact you and the drivers around you. Steering problems include:

Difficulty when turning the wheel – especially if you have power steering, this is one of the first things you’ll notice. It may be a leak in the steering fluid, which helps give you easy control in how easily the wheel turns.

Vibration in the steering wheel – you’ll feel the wheel vibrate or pulse as you drive the car. It could be a steering wheel problem or an alignment issue, which is why it’s a good idea to let a trained mechanic inspect your vehicle.

Looseness in the steering wheel – this is usually caused by a worn steering rack that won’t hold its position.

Vehicle wanders or pulls to one side – worn equipment won’t keep your vehicle on track without extra help from you to hold it in place.

A screeching or grinding noise as you turn the steering wheel – if any noise continues every time you use your vehicle, it’s worth a trip into our service station to inspect it and find out where the problem lies.

What are signs of suspension problems?

Like other systems in your vehicle, the suspension system will have distinct issues as components start to wear and fail. The most common include:

Vehicle that pulls to one side – that’s a sign there are one or more issues with your suspension system. It could be uneven tire pressure, uneven tire wear, poor alignment, or a bad steering rack. This is often caused by driving on rough roads – have you hit speed bumps or potholes especially hard lately?

Feeling every bump in the road – when you start to notice a rough ride, it’s a clear indicator of a problem with your shocks and struts. It gives the distinct feeling of bouncing as you drive on the road. You can test by performing a bounce test – with your car parked, press down on the front end and release. If it bounces back and forth more than three times, the shocks and struts are worn.

One corner of your car sits low – a damaged spring may cause one corner of your car to sit lower than the others. You may also notice a clunking noise as you drive because of compromised equipment.

Braking or accelerating makes your car squat or nose dive – this is a very distinct feeling as you notice this extreme handling.

Difficulty in steering – if you find steering especially difficult, especially when first starting out and traveling slowly, it’s usually a sign of a suspension problem. You may also feel it slipping or difficult to hold onto the wheel. It can be a number of issues, including low power steering fluid or a leaking power steering rack.

Don’t ignore steering and suspension repair

One of the primary reasons why people put off regular maintenance is time and fear of the cost.

Time is always a factor – why pay attention to something that works well when you have a lot of little fires all around you? The best way to keep little fires at bay, avoiding them in some cases altogether, is to stay ahead of potential problems. Regular maintenance will ensure you fix items before they grow in size, often reducing the amount of money you have to invest in the repair.

That also impacts your final cost. Repairing a part limits your financial output. If you ignore a problem – a worn shock, for example – can quickly escalate and cause other major damage to your vehicle. That can increase your cost exponent, also increasing the likelihood of being without your vehicle for days rather than a few hours.

Stop by and visit with our staff today. You’ll love having a family operated service shop you can trust to give you the right information you need to make a well informed decision.