Car Maintenance

What You Need To Know About Wheel Balance and Front End Alignment

December 22, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever let go of the steering wheel and had your vehicle veer to the right or left? While a little pull might not impact safety immediately, the more off-balance your vehicle, the more risk you’ll be on the road.

Your wheels have to point in the same direction, roll straight forward when driving on a flat surface, and be evenly balanced all the way around for your car to run smoothly. If a problem arises with any one of these points, it impacts your driving, and can influence safety during the drive.

Yet if you’ve done a search online, heard a mechanic talk about the steering system, and felt like you’re not quite sure what your car needs, we want to explain a few of the terms of the industry, and help you understand the mechanics of your vehicle.

When talking about your steering system, there are several things that can impact your drive.

What is wheel balance?

Think about your tires for a moment. Tires are made up of a variety of materials, including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, plastic polymer, metal, and other compounds. They may be tough to the touch, but as they connect to the road, they move and change shape as they move along.

Even with today’s technology and all the manufacturing upgrades we’ve made over the years, it’s still impossible to find a perfectly formed tire that will continue to be balanced all the way around as it ages. There will always be a part of the tire that ways a bit more, is a little thicker than other areas, or has imperfections that cause it to fall out of balance.

When one side of a wheel is out of balance with the other, it vibrates. Wheel balance fixes this issue.

What is wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment has little to do with the actual wheels. Instead, wheel alignment is all about working with your car’s suspension system to control what direction and angle your wheels are moving in.

There are three different ways your wheels are aligned in relation to your car’s steering system:

The first is toe – it’s the angle of all four tires to one another. This is one of the most common repair issues, when your four wheels are no longer working in conjunction with one another. If you’ve ever noticed your car veers to the right or left, and refuses to drive in a straight line without extra effort, it’s most likely a toe misalignment.

The second is camber – this refers to the angle of a wheel if you were to look at it from the front of the vehicle. If you notice a wheel leaning to one side or the other, it’s most likely a misaligned camber.

The third is caster – this is the angle of the steering pivot as you view it from one of the vehicle’s sides. This is the most difficult to see. Take a look at the way each wheel sits inside the wheel well. If one is more forward or backward, and doesn’t sit in the middle, it might be a problem with the caster. This could lead to rubbing the wheel along the well, especially if you hit a large bump. It can damage the tire over time.

What is front end alignment?

While you might see some mechanics or auto websites talking about wheel alignment, you’ll also find many articles referring to front end alignment. Is there a difference? Do you have to work with both to keep your car running smoothly?

Wheel alignment often refers to the alignment of all four wheels. This is especially important if you drive a four-wheel drive vehicle. A front end alignment relates only to the front two wheels.

Yet no matter how you refer to it, the ending result is the same. A wheel alignment – or a front end alignment – all work towards the common goal of ensuring your wheels are working optimally in providing you a safe, smooth ride.

How do I know if the wheels are out of balance?

Your wheels go through a lot as you drive around the city. They hit bumps, dive through dips, take corners quickly, keep you safe on slick or snowy roads, and protect you from debris covering the roads.

Even brand new tires are susceptible to problems and errors. Coming out of the factory doesn’t necessarily guarantee perfection.

Yet with the use of technology, your tires are installed on your vehicle and regulated to fit your car’s requirements. The moment you drive away, things begin to happen. Cold, heat, water, ice, debris in the road, age – all of it begins to wear on each tire, causing slight variations in their performance. It can impact one tire at a time, or all four equally. One can be slightly overfilled while another is underfilled.

Just a half an ounce difference in the amount of pressure in a tire can cause a vibration in handling. And that begins to wear on your vehicle.

Rebalancing puts the wheels back into adjustment.

Tires are attached to a tire balancing machine. The wheel is spun while taking various vibrational measurements. If an imbalance is found, the mechanic will add weights or move the tire on the wheel to bring it back into balance.

Wheel balancing should be done anytime you notice a vibration in the steering wheel. It’s automatically performed every time you get your tires rotated, or you buy and install new tires. If you notice the weights have fallen off, or you notice uneven wear on a tire, it’s also wise to bring it in for wheel balancing.

How do I know if a front end alignment is necessary?

The more you know your vehicle, the more you’ll notice when changes occur, problems that might be causing wear and tear on various systems within your car. While wheel balancing and wheel alignment require different repairs, they are connected and sometimes start showing in a similar manner.

Have you noticed a vibration in your steering wheel? It’s time to bring your car in for an inspection. This is a prime symptom of a problem with your steering system.

Wheel alignment also shows up in performance and handling as you drive. Take a look at your steering wheel. Does it sit crooked as you drive in a straight line down the road? That is a symptom of an alignment problem.

You might also notice your car pulling to the right or left as you drive, needing even more of your attention to keep the vehicle in a straight line. That’s a sign you’re in need of a wheel alignment.

Front end alignments can also show up in the form of a strange noise. Do you hear abnormal sounds every time you move your steering wheel? Do the tires squeal? Don’t ignore unusual sounds. It could be a sign of a bigger problem.

To Turbo or Not to Turbo?

December 21, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Nobody likes wasting money. Gasoline costs money, so using less gasoline saves money. One of the ways vehicle manufacturers are helping you save gasoline (and money) is with smaller, turbocharged engines.

You might have heard of turbos associated with race cars, but more and more everyday street vehicles are getting into the turbo game. The big advantage is that you can get the same horsepower out of an engine that uses less fuel. Neat trick, huh?

Today, we see small turbocharged four-cylinder engines that make more power than large displacement V-8 engines of a decade ago. Here’s how a turbo manages that trick. A turbocharged vehicle uses a turbine that is turned by exhaust gas. That compresses air that goes into the engine. More air means more oxygen with which to burn fuel, which makes it more powerful.

Modern turbocharged engines are very reliable. Turbos are offered in cars, trucks, and SUVs. Keep in mind that because they are more complex, turbocharged engines can be more expensive to repair. The good news is you will likely be saving fuel without sacrificing performance.

Turbos spin at very high speeds. They require a constant supply of oil to lubricate their bearings. For this reason, changing your oil on time is critical. Just a small amount of oil sludge could block the turbo oil passage and lead to expensive damage. Also, most turbocharged engines require the use of synthetic motor oil that meets or exceeds strict standards to withstand the stress and high heat. Always use the type and specification of oil your vehicle manufacturer recommends.

The technicians at Express Car Care are trained to inspect all systems associated with a turbo engine. If you are currently driving a turbocharged vehicle, make sure you keep all your maintenance up to date.

To turbo or not to turbo? With the fuel economy advantages they offer, turbocharged vehicles are definitely here to stay.

Will Electric Cars Make Auto Mechanics Obsolete?

December 14, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

As a society, we have a nostalgic vision of what auto mechanics is all about.

We picture a scene from a movie, where a person drives into an auto shop with their vehicle. A smiling face in a pair of coveralls meets them at the door. They bring the car in and get to work.

They have a toolbox nearby filled with screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. You might see them slide under the vehicle, tapping and banging around as they get to the heart of the problem. Hours later, with grease smears everywhere, the happy mechanic waves as the customer drives away.

Those days are gone.

Instead, today’s auto mechanics deal with modern cars and high tech tools.

If you’ve purchased a vehicle recently, how many new “bells and whistles” are included on the car?

Like Automatic Parking Assistant. This modern technology makes parallel parking easy. Using ultrasonic sensors located at the front, rear, and sides of the car, it detects the parking spot, the vehicles around it, and guides it into place.

And that’s just the beginning. We’re already looking forward to a day where autonomous cars allow us to sit back and relax instead of keeping an eye on the road.

Or a day where electric cars are the norm.

What does all of this mean to auto mechanics? Is there a place for a vehicle servicing shop in the future?

Auto Mechanics – Past, Present, and Future

When you head back in time, fixing a car was a very hands-on job. The vehicle servicing station was a busy place, with lots of mechanics needed to work several hours on each job. Every turn of a wrench, every twist of a bolt was done by hand, and it could take a mechanic hours to complete one simple job. While hundreds – thousands – of little pieces fit together to build complex systems, it was necessary for a mechanic to check and service them all by hand.

This may sound like something right out of the 1950s, but it really wasn’t that long ago. Even cars built ten years ago required a lot more hands-on maintenance.

But with the advances in technology over the past few years, we’ve also seen changes in the way cars operate.

Remember when automatic locks on the doors was the latest technology? Now each system is interwoven together and controlled by a centralized motherboard. Instead of pulling things apart with a screwdriver or wrench, new cars are more likely to be connected to a laptop to pinpoint exactly where the problem lies. And only then is a fix attempted, often with newer, more high-pressured tools.

Yep, today’s cars are no longer a bunch of nuts and bolts, instead, they are computers on wheels.

Still, we are nowhere near where technology will take us next. Self-driving vehicles, electric cars, and more sophisticated technology will forever change the way we get around. While we may have a nostalgic view of what an auto mechanic has in their toolbox, in truth, the toolbox of the future will be little more than a series of computerized programs.

What Does That Mean for an Auto Mechanic?

With everything we’ve mentioned so far in this article, it’s natural to question the future of auto mechanics – will it disappear completely from view? The answer is: no, it’s not going to happen anytime soon.

Instead, like every industry, it will continue to evolve over time.

Cars will always need tires, and a way to connect to the road. They will always need a braking system, a way to safely control the vehicle and bring it to a stop. Who drives it and how it functions might change, but the basic requirements won’t – not for a very long time.

What will change is the way an auto mechanic approaches their job.

An auto mechanic may keep their screwdriver and wrenches in their toolbox on a shelf. But the toolbox itself may stay on the shelf, collecting dust, nothing more than memorabilia from a bygone era.

Instead, future toolboxes will include diagnostic tools that are run by technology. They’ll use things like code readers and laptops to tweak a computer’s settings.

And you as a driver will be part of the solution. Ever noticed all the codes that flash when you start your car, or numbers dancing across your dashboard as you drive? That’s due to the continual diagnostics going on underneath the hood, using sensors to tell what’s working and what’s not. When things vary even just a little, it alerts you to a potential problem.

It’s important to note that auto mechanics are not going to be a thing of the past. There will still be a need for a highly trained auto mechanic. But the way they approach analyzing a vehicle and making adjustments will.

A New Approach To Repair

Auto repair itself is getting more sophisticated all the time. As more things become automated, auto mechanics will find new ways of working for a new generation of vehicles.

They won’t approach a car in the same manner as before. Think of it more in terms of hiring an engineer, working with code, using programmed software to make a diagnosis, and utilizing various tools to get to the root of the problem.

While auto mechanics of yesteryear went to school to learn the nuts and bolts of how a car is put together, tomorrow’s technicians will work more with technology to tweak and get to the root of the problem. Popping the hood won’t mean pulling pieces apart to determine their condition. Instead, it’ll be about hooking up the main computerized dashboard and looking at reports online.

Instead of guessing at where a problem lies, diagnostics will show you exactly where it begins.

Things may change for all those who love tinkering with cars, and have always been mechanically inclined. But it can never stop the love for what a great car has to offer.

Technology has changed everything. That’s never going to stop. Peering under the hood may change in the coming years as we make significant progress in the way our automobiles operate, but keeping them safe will always be our number one priority.

Do you have a trusted auto mechanic who can help you stay safe no matter what kind of car you drive?

Timing Chain or Timing Belt – How Your Car Works

December 8, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

The heart of your vehicle is the engine. Without an engine, your car simply won’t go.

Since the very first car, the engine has been vitally important to keeping your vehicle running. Over the years, the engine has been upgraded for precision to give you the smoothest ride possible in the most efficient way. To ensure this process, it requires timing, which uses a timing chain or timing belt to work with the camshaft and crankshaft to provide motion to the pistons and valves to produce synchronicity.

Both the timing chain and timing belt are used to produce the same result. Yet they are slightly different from one another.

What is timing?

Within the engine, you have a camshaft and a crankshaft. The camshaft controls the valves that let fuel and air in and out of the engine. The crankshaft moves the pistons up and down. This process involves mechanical timing, with the synchronicity of these two movements being imperative to the engine functioning. If the timing is off, it can damage any part within the two processes – the pistons, valves, or other components of the engine.

The purpose of the timing chain or timing belt is to make this process fluid. Either of these components is used to create harmonization at a precise rate.

Timing chain or timing belt – what’s the difference?

The timing chain and timing belt function in the same way. The difference between the two is the material they are created from, and their location in the engine compartment.

Timing chains were introduced first in the production line. A timing chain is constructed of metal, and is housed within the engine compartment. It receives lubrication from engine oil, and with proper maintenance, can last for a lifetime.

Timing belts were introduced in the 1960s as we became more sophisticated with the materials we produced. Belts are made from a reinforced rubber, and are quieter and less expensive to produce. But because they are made from a softer, more flexible material, they do wear down over time, with manufacturers suggesting they be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

Of course, modern technology keeps making improvements to the way we produce various components of a vehicle. Some manufacturers have returned to a timing chain because of the strength in metal, albeit more quiet and efficient than was used decades before.

There are strengths and weaknesses to both, so manufacturers select their final products based on the overall design of the vehicle.

The symptoms of a bad timing chain or timing belt

While a timing chain can last the lifetime of a vehicle, and a timing belt can last as long as 100,000 miles, it isn’t impossible for either component to fail. Before either completely fails, it will show warning signs along the way.

Engine misfire and poor performance

Over time, either the timing chain or timing belt can stretch, meaning it won’t be able to perform at its optimal level. As it tries to do its job, it can skip a gear on the camshaft or crankshaft as it moves as you drive. This causes the engine to fall out of calibration, and often results in an engine that misfire. You may also notice the engine jumps and runs poorly, or a lack of acceleration as you move forward down the road.

Ticking noise in the engine

The timing belt is attached by a series of pulleys that connect it to the camshaft and crankshaft. These pulleys are what help the camshaft and crankshaft function within the engine itself. As the timing belt wears down, it can produce a ticking noise in the motor due to the individual parts not being able to perform as designed.

An engine that won’t turn over

If the timing belt snaps, is broken, or no longer works, it also means your engine won’t have the neccesary power to turn over and run. When you turn the key or press the button, you’ll hear a clicking noise as the motor tries to engage. But since the timing belt is responsible for the operation of the camshaft and crankshaft, the engine won’t have a way to fully ignite.

An engine that suddenly fails

Over time, the timing belt can loosen to the point it becomes a risk underneath the hood. If it brakes while you’re driving, it snaps and begins to flail around. That’s when it has the potential for doing a lot of damage. The rubber can snap back and forth, damaging other parts such as the cylinder head hardware, including pushrods and valves. You’ll have no choice but to bring your car to a stop and have it towed into the shop.

You’ll notice metal shavings in the oil

If you’re performing regular maintenance on your vehicle, you’ll change out your motor oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Oil begins to separate over time as it continually heats up and cools, and is exposed to the solvents found in today’s gasoline. If the timing chain is wearing down, flecks of metal can break away and find their way into the oil pan. A mechanic watches for these signs as he changes the oil, and alerts you to the beginning of any potential problems.

You’ll notice an oil leak

Another common sign of a problem with a timing belt is an oil leak. Pay attention to any changes in and around your vehicle, even under the hood. If an oil stain starts appearing around the engine, it might be a timing belt issue. The timing belt cover is secured by nuts and bolts, which can work their way loose over time. This can allow oil to pool out and become noticeable around the engine compartment.

The check engine light is illuminated

The check engine light can illuminate for a variety of reasons, one of which can be a problem with the timing chain or timing belt. Because the check engine light can signal a variety of issues, it’s important to have a mechanic check it out as quickly as possible to prevent further stress to your vehicle.

Whether you suspect an issue with your timing chain or timing belt, or are just in need of a reputable mechanic who will change your oil regularly, we’re here for you. Give us a call today.

Spare Tire Care

December 7, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Most of us don’t worry about getting a flat tire. After all, it rarely happens, and if it does, we might think we can just call someone and have them put on the spare tire. That’s a perfect plan if your spare is in good shape. But how many of us even think twice about checking the condition of our spare tires?

The spares that take the biggest beating are those mounted outside the vehicle. Like those on SUVs and trucks. They might be on the tailgate or underneath the vehicle. These get exposed to water, dirt, salt, and road debris. The mounting hardware can become so corroded that you may not even be able to get the spare out of its holder, leaving you with no usable spare at all.

When you get your tires rotated, ask your service technician to check the condition and inflation of the outside-mounted spare and its holder. A little lubrication and maintenance periodically can help keep them fit for action. Often the spare on an SUV or truck is the same size as the other tires and may be included in the regular rotation – check your owner’s manual.

How about those compact spare tires that are sitting in the trunk, out of sight and out of mind? They can have low air pressure too, because over time, the air can slowly escape. It’s a good idea to have your service facility check the spare’s pressure and condition at least twice a year, if not more frequently. What good is a spare tire with inadequate air pressure?

And then there are the vehicles that don’t have spare tires at all. They may have an inflator kit. These kits need to be kept in good shape, too. Be aware that an inflator kit can’t fix many tire punctures and failures. They frequently have a sealant in them that attempts to plug leaks and holes. That sealant has an expiration date and should be replaced when it expires. Again, ask your service adviser if your inflator kit is up to date and working.

Be fair to your spare and show it you care.

What a Water Pump Does In Your Car

December 3, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Water sustains everything on earth, and your car is no exception.

Your vehicle was built with a water pump that is a vital part of the cooling system. When running, it continually circulates coolant from the radiator to the engine block to prevent overheating.

How a water pump works

If you’ve ever popped the hood of your car to perform basic maintenance, it probably comes as no surprise that your vehicle stores a lot of heat while in operation. It takes a lot of action to keep your car operating correctly, especially when you can reach speeds of fifty miles per hour and greater, even just running to the grocery store.

Thanks to modern technology, and manufacturers that are constantly looking for ways to improve their processes, today’s vehicles are made for durability and longevity. While cars built decades before were expected to last around 100,000 miles, today’s cars can double or triple that. That’s good news for the consumer. But it also means that you need to be even more diligent in regular maintenance to keep it working at its best.

A car under constant pressure can only withstand so much before individual components begin to wear down. Excessively high temperatures underneath the hood regularly can damage parts over time.

The water pump is designed to push coolant through the engine block and radiator through a series of hoses. Without this coolant, the engine block could quickly overheat, causing damage that can require extensive repairs.

The water pump is a part of a series of systems that ensure your vehicle runs at optimal performance. When a car starts, the serpentine belt also begins to move. This belt allows the impeller blades inside the water pump to turn, pushing coolant to the various places in the system, including the cylinders built around the engine.

Hoses take the coolant into the radiator. As it moves through the system, it travels across the radiator fins to help the liquid cool down. It breaks down the heat formed during operation, keeping the engine compartment cool and running well. Then it continues on its journey back towards the water pump. This cycle continues as long as you drive your car.

This process wouldn’t be possible without the water pump. It maintains the flow of coolant throughout the system for as long as your car is in operation. While it may seem like a simplistic part, it’s vital to the operation of your vehicle.

When a water pump stops working

A water pump isn’t something you’ll have to replace often. In most cars, the water pump is expected to last 60,000 to 90,000 miles. The water pump is usually located behind the timing belt, and the two are often changed out at the same time.

Age is one factor that could lead you to suspect a problem with your water pump. The older your car is, the greater the chance maintenance issues will arise with your vehicle. This is why regular check-ups help you stay ahead of potential problems, and ensure your vehicle stays working at its best.

Water pumps do give off warning signs that something is wrong.

Leaking fluids

A water pump has several seals and gaskets to help it operate correctly, maintaining the flow of coolant throughout the system. Each of these seals and gaskets are important to keep coolant in the system, and avoid it spilling out and all over the roads. If they start to fail, small puddles may form underneath your car when it’s parked. Be on the lookout for what happens underneath your car, especially if you park in the same spot over and over again.

Coolant is either orange or green in color, depending on the type. If you notice it pooling and it takes on a rusty color, that indicates the rust inhibitor has broken down and it no longer controls rust and scale buildup. You might also notice a buildup of gunk on the pump itself, which has the potential to rust the various components.

High pitched whine

Over time, you start to develop a sense of how your car sounds as it operates. Any time noise strays from the normal, question it and bring it in for a check-up to find out what is making the noise.

With water pumps, the serpentine belt and pulley system that keeps the fluid running can sometimes start to whine. This is especially prevalent as you’re accelerating. You may also notice a grinding or growling noise, which can be an indicator of bad bearings in the system. While a mechanic may be able to fix the noise by adjusting the belt or tweaking the bearings, ultimately, it’s because components are wearing down and are in need of replacing.

Overheated engine

An overheated engine is a sign of major malfunction, and could be a costly repair. It’s something to avoid at all costs. Still, it can happen. Pay attention to the temperature gauge. If it shows your engine is running hot, you should have a mechanic take a look and locate the problem.

Steam from the radiator

Another sign of overheating is if you see steam coming out of the engine compartment. If steam comes up from underneath the hood, pull over safely, and turn off your vehicle. Call in a tow truck and bring it in to have one of our mechanics look at it and determine where the problem lies. If you keep driving it, it will cause more damage. Instead of replacing the water pump, for example, you may be replacing the entire engine.

What’s involved in a water pump replacement?

Replacing the water pump isn’t an every day job. How difficult it is depends on the make and model of your vehicle. Depending on the design, the water pump may be hidden under other components that require special tools to get in and replace it. It often makes sense to replace it with other parts, such as your timing belt.

Finding a trustworthy mechanic who can help you maintain your vehicle for as long as you own it can put your mind at ease.

Why Are My Tires Always Flat?

November 24, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Have you ever noticed that on your busiest days, that’s when your car seems to take on a mind of its own? You know what I mean if you’ve ever run outside, late for a meeting, and found something wrong with your car.

While a dead battery might stop you in your tracks, it isn’t the only thing that can cause you to be late. One look at a flat tire will tell you you’re not going anywhere until it’s fixed.

And while a flat tire can hold you back until you change it, what happens when you come out repeatedly to a flat tire? What do you do when your tires are always flat? Why does it keep occurring back to back?

There could be several reasons for that. Let’s go over each of them to help you narrow down what’s going on with your vehicle.

Age

While a tire that goes flat once could be from a variety of things, if it keeps happening, there’s something else happening with your tire. When was the last time you replaced your tires?

Tires have a very important job on your vehicle. They connect you to the road, keeping you comfortable and safe as you drive along. They are continually being subjected to all kinds of things: rain, sleet, snow, ice, dirt, debris, potholes, heat … You get the picture. Every day brings on a new set of experiences. And your tires are designed to take it all in, and continue to protect your car.

Tires are made from a variety of materials, including rubber. These materials aren’t designed to last forever; they will eventually wear out.

There isn’t one set of guidelines to help you determine exactly when that is. However, tires do come with suggested guidelines you should follow. A high performance tire may wear down faster than one designed for all-weather performance. It also depends on what driving conditions it faces each day.

While you can start by determining how many miles you’ve put on this set of tires, you should also take a look at wear marks. Tire makers state that tires should officially be retired when the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch. If you’re kind to your tires, they can last for years. If you drive aggressively, it can shorten the curve immensely.

Dry rot

Age can cause your tires to degrade over time. But age isn’t the only thing that can go wrong. While age, in general, will impact the tread of the tire, dry rot affects your tire’s sidewall.

Dry rot isn’t created from bacteria as it does in a forest. Instead, dry rot on your tire is caused by age or exposure to certain conditions. They include extreme temperatures, UV damage, extensive periods of long term parking, and corrosive chemicals.

Think all of that describes Colorado living perfectly this year? Yep, us too.

The way to prevent dry rot is through regular maintenance. Checking your tires regularly can ensure they are inflated to proper levels, and that you don’t notice problems with the tire tread before you hop on the road and drive.

If you do park for extended periods of time, (like we’ve been doing here in the middle of a pandemic,) be sure you check your vehicle periodically to ensure it’s in good condition. That includes starting the car and running it from time to time to keep the systems working, and checking to ensure the tires are properly inflated.

Valve stem

If you’ve recently changed a flat tire, only to have it flatten again a few miles down the road, it’s time to take a look at the valve stem. The valve stem allows you to regulate tire pressure. It includes both the stem core and the valve cap. You use the stem core to add air into your tires, while the cap is used to seal out dirt and debris from entering.

Just like the tire itself, the valve stem can wear down over time. And as damage occurs, it can cause leaks. Inspect the valve stem. Do you notice any cracks? Does it appear to work when you fill your tires with air?

If you’re having problems regulating tire pressure, bring your vehicle in and we can perform a thorough check. It’s often a good idea to replace valve stems at the time you invest in new tires. This ensures the materials used are fresh and new, ready to perform for thousands of miles as you drive.

TPMS

Built inside the valve stem is a tiny sensor that warns your vehicle’s monitoring system of potential problems. TPMS – tire pressure monitoring system – is designed to track the tire pressure inside each tire, and provide a warning signal when it falls short of being within the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Because newer cars are all computerized, you can monitor any changes to your vehicle by merely keeping a watchful eye on your dashboard. While the actual dashboard signal may vary slightly from car to car, when you see a new icon illuminated, it’s time to find out what’s wrong. If a light blinks on and off, it might be a change in conditions. If it continues, it is a sign something is changing in the way your car operates. The best way to get to the root of the problem is to stop by and have us run a diagnostic test. It will help pinpoint where the problem lies, fix it, and get you back on the road again in no time.

Are you tired of changing tires? Are you tired of finding your car not ready to drive as you head out to a busy day?

Whether it’s due to age, dry rot, or there’s a problem with your tire pressure monitoring system, we can help you pinpoint the problem, and get you back on the road in no time.

Isn’t it nice to know there’s a local car care shop here waiting for you? You’ll receive honest answers every time you stop by. We’re here for you.

A Few “Key” Facts

November 23, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

You expect your key to turn in your vehicle’s ignition…but sometimes…it won’t, and that’s a problem. Whether you’re trying to start your vehicle or trying to leave it, it’s a problem.

Here are a few “key” facts of what can cause this to happen. One of the most common is that the steering column locking mechanism is stuck. Locking steering columns are an anti-theft feature introduced in the 1970’s. If yours is sticking, try moving the steering wheel a little from side to side as you turn the key; sometimes this will cause it to release.

A key may also stick if the vehicle is in gear. Most vehicles will only let you start in neutral or park. If you have an automatic transmission vehicle, make sure it’s in park. Move the shift lever through the gears and back into park to make sure. If the key still doesn’t turn, you can try jiggling the shift lever as you turn the key. Electrical and mechanical contacts sometimes don’t line up properly, and a little jiggle might nudge them into place.

Sometimes vehicles with alarms can cause a key to jam; some require the doors to either be closed or open before the key will move. Other vehicles with newer electronic ignition systems won’t allow you to turn the key if the battery is dead.

Another possibility is something jammed in your lock cylinder. The little pins and spring that figure out you are putting in the correct key can stick as well. Your key may also be the culprit. The ridges can wear down, or the shaft can get bent. Oh, and speaking of the key, are you trying to use the right one? Double check it.

If you have a key that resists turning and you’re able to get it unstuck, consider yourself warned. It probably won’t “fix” itself, and it’s time to have your qualified technician dig a little deeper to track down the root of the problem. You could be less “luc-key” the next time it happens.

Understanding Car Sensors, Why Your Car Has Them, And Keeping Them Well Maintained

November 21, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

In the early 1900s, thousands of different automobile companies existed across America, producing over 3,000 makes for consumers to choose from. Cars were simple by design, and had very few systems and parts when compared to today’s standards.

As driving became a mainstay, as roads weaved through every major city across the world and we began relying on vehicles like never before, safety became an issue.

So we modernized. Every system improved. Designs became sleek and sophisticated.

Technology entered the scene, and we found ways to improve a vehicle through a centralized computer system. The more parts a vehicle has, the more complex the systems became, the more of a need there was to help determine when something goes wrong.

That’s where car sensors come into the scene, helping owners understand when something goes wrong with their vehicle.

Understanding an internal combustion engine

An internal combustion engine needs three things to operate:

Air
Fuel
Spark

Going back in time, vehicles produced these three items with mechanical or electromechanical systems.

The carburetor was installed and used to control the mixing process, and meter how effective it was.

A mechanical distributor created and distributed spark delivery. A mechanical fuel pump would release fuel from the fuel tank and push it to the carburetor.

This process was fairly straightforward, but very hands-on for maintenance. A vehicle would need a thorough tuneup every 30,000 miles or so to keep the engine running well.

As vehicles increased and became the norm in households all across the world, rules changed, and new operational mechanisms were developed. The 1970s brought on electronic spark delivery rather than relying on mechanical means. The 1980s changed the emissions system and what was acceptable for the environment.

As the systems grew in complexity, sensors were added to deliver information to an analog management system. The problem with analog systems is they had to be programmed and managed. They had their limits. They wouldn’t respond to things as they happened, and could still allow problems to escalate quickly.

That all changed as technology became more sophisticated. As carburetors were replaced with fuel injection, engines needed more information to work properly. And that’s where sensors became a bigger part of the way our current vehicles operate today.

Understanding car sensors

Cars in the 1980s and 1990s increased in functionality. Every aspect of the engine and drivetrain is now controlled by a central processor and a series of sensors. Currently, a vehicle has anywhere from 60 to 100 sensors built into the vehicle. However, that number will rise as cars continue to get smarter.

In general, car sensors can be broken down into separate categories, including:

Motion sensors
Pressure sensors
Position sensors
Temperature sensors

Each of these is considered to be sensory organs that send critical information back to the engine, and control how well your vehicle works. These sensors can detect even the smallest of changes, compensating for differences to ensure your vehicle stays operating well at all times.

How do car sensors work?

The purpose of a car sensor is pretty straightforward. They detect changes in the environment around them. If something changes, a trigger turns them on and sends the info to the appropriate place.

For example, a pressure sensor is designed to register pressure. When it goes beyond the designated limits, it sends the info to the central processor, which in turn triggers either an alarm or a light on the dashboard.

This notification is designed to give you advance warning of a potential problem. It’s intended to provide you with ample time to pull safely off the road, get to a service station to have the issue evaluated, and get the problem fixed before you drive your car once again.

Car sensors and what they do for your vehicle

The average car on the road today will have between 60 to 100 sensors. The best way to learn more about what your car offers is to spend some time with your owner’s manual.

Here are a few of the more critical sensors and what they do for your car.

Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor

The intake air temperature sensor is an important part of keeping your engine in good working condition. It helps regulate the temperature of the air flow entering the engine. These temperature measurements are used as the engine balances the air-fuel mixture to properly operate the engine.

Cold air is denser than warm air, which means more fuel is needed to keep a proper balance for peak performance. The IAT sensor is mounted on the intake manifold in order to detect the temperature as the air flows in.

Oxygen Sensors

Oxygen sensors are one of the most common sensors on the vehicle today, having been on modern day cars for close to five decades. The oxygen sensor helps to keep the emissions in check by regulating the emission of the gases. While cars today have at least one oxygen sensor, many have up to four to help keep the car as efficient as possible.

Voltage Sensor

This is another common sensor that helps manage speed. It helps to ensure the car increases or decreases as required. It also helps control idling speed.

Tire Pressure Sensor

Tire pressure not only ensures you have a comfortable ride, but it also ensures you safely travel on the road without risk of an accident. Tire pressure sensors are located near the wheel and tire where it measures a tire’s air pressure. If it moves beyond the preset ratios, it alerts you to a potential problem.

Brake Fluid Sensor

The brake fluid sensor is located within a car’s braking system and helps detect brake fluid levels. Brake fluid operates under pressure, and any deviation to this pressure can impact brake performance. If fluid pressure ever drops, it alerts you through a dashboard light, giving you a chance to pull safely off the road and fix the problem quickly.

Car sensors – pay attention and stay safe

Like everything in our lives today, car sensors are designed to keep you well informed about how your vehicle is operating. Car sensors are an important part of the internal workings of your vehicle.

When any one of them is displayed, there is a reason for it. Don’t ignore them. Stop by and let us evaluate what’s wrong. The quicker you take action, the safer you’ll stay. And you’ll be able to fix the problem before it turns into something bigger.

Why Your Car May Fail The Emissions Test

November 18, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

How long have you called Denver home? If you were around in the 1970s or 1980s, you might remember the brown cloud. As we continued to industrialize our city, the population moved outward and began developing suburbia. That meant more driving for all of our daily needs.

The EPA adopted the Clean Air Act to establish standards on air pollution from both factories and vehicles. But even with this law, Denver’s air pollution was visibly noticeable, partially because the city sits in a bowl-like valley. With mountains on one side and the Platte River Valley on the other, a temperature inversion traps pollution inside this bowl, creating a “brown cloud” of unhealthy air.

While policies continue to work at keeping this brown cloud under control, it hasn’t gone away. Experts say that the brown cloud has been replaced by thick smog, with the EPA changing our overall rating recently from “moderate” to “serious.” In 2018, Denver logged 131 days of poor air quality. And that impacts everyone across the Front Range, especially those with compromised respiratory systems.

Years ago, Colorado set up a program to monitor gas emissions from vehicles. Its goal was to keep the worst polluters off of the roads. Several counties require an emissions test to register a vehicle, including:

Boulder
Broomfield
Denver
Douglas
Jefferson
Portions of Adams
Portions of Arapahoe
Portion of Larimer
Portions of Weld

There are exceptions to this rule. If you aren’t sure if this rule applies to you, check with the Colorado Air Care Testing Facility near you to determine if your car needs testing, and how often you should take it in.

What an emissions test checks for

An emissions test is designed to ensure that a vehicle isn’t producing unacceptable levels of toxic gases. Tests are designed to measure the amount of emissions coming from a car’s engine. It’s a simple test that checks the pollutants being emitted from the tailpipe and being released into the air supply. It measures:

Nitrogen oxide (NOx)
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Particulate matter (PM)
Non-methane organic gases (NMOG)
Formaldehyde (HCHO)

If your car passes, you can register your vehicle and drive it on the roads.

But what if your emissions test fails?

Here are the most common reasons a car will fail an emissions test.

Your car needs an oil change. An oil change is considered to be regular maintenance. It’s something that you should perform regularly, whether you drive regularly or not. Clean oil has fewer hydrocarbons in it, and helps keep your engine cleaner. A clean engine means cleaner emissions output. Check with your vehicle’s manufacturer, or refer to your owner’s manual to determine how often your oil should be replaced. Remember, this is based on time and miles driven. Even if you work from home and your car sits idle most days, it doesn’t mean your car doesn’t need fresh oil on a regular basis.

Your car has a rich air-fuel mixture. This is often caused by a malfunctioning injector or a faulty oxygen sensor. Check and replace both of these items before checking the emissions once again; this fixes the problem in a lot of cases. If the system continues dumping too much gas into the system, it will burn out the catalytic converter. Bringing it into our shop for a thorough checkup can find this and fix it if it’s the problem.

Your spark plugs are worn. When spark plugs wear down, they produce incomplete combustion. The spark plug creates electricity that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine. The spark plugs create the motion inside the piston, and continue to provide power to keep your vehicle moving. When this process is incomplete, it can impact how much your car is emitting. Changing your spark plugs may be all that is needed to get your car back on the road.

Your car’s gas cap is leaking. This is a simple issue you can fix yourself. First, inspect your gas cap to see if it’s properly sealed. Tighten it if necessary. If you notice a leak, replace the gas cap and test your vehicle’s emissions again.

Your car’s air filter is dirty. When a vehicle’s air filter clogs, it can increase the levels of hydrocarbons being emitted from your car’s engine. Most manufacturers suggest replacing your car’s air filter at least once a year. If you don’t remember when you last had it changed, consider replacing it and trying the emissions test again. This should be a part of your regular maintenance plan to ensure your vehicle is in the best condition possible.

Your car’s evaporative emission control system (EVAP) is defective. When a vehicle’s EVAP system isn’t working correctly, gas vapors will move from the gas tank and add to the pollution levels in the atmosphere. This is often caused by a leak in the hoses or vents, causing the EVAP system to work improperly. While this can be difficult to track, a thorough diagnostics test can often reveal where the problem lies.

Your car’s check engine light is defective. While every light on your dashboard is important, the check engine light is one you should never ignore. It can signal many different problems with the way your engine operates. Occasionally, the check engine light itself may malfunction, and be the cause of why your car is failing the emissions test.

The best way to proceed is with proper maintenance and an inspection by a professional mechanic

While a failed emissions test isn’t a sign your car has major systems problems, it is a warning of an issue that needs solving.

While regular maintenance can keep your vehicle in top driving condition, it’s an ongoing process.

By stopping by regularly, we can ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and will give you peace of mind, knowing your car will be reliable no matter where your travels take you.

How can we help you maintain your vehicle for years to come?