Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

The Importance Of Your Car’s Heating and Air Conditioning System

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Heating and cooling inside your vehicle is so automatic, you probably don’t think much about it. Whether it’s warm or cold outside, you push a button or flip a lever, and your car is conditioned just the way you like it.

When something goes wrong with your car’s heating and air conditioning system, you’ll learn how important it is. A one hundred degree day in Colorado can leave you scrambling out of your car as quickly as possible. And when you can’t get the heat to turn on, you might not be going anywhere. A problem with your heating and cooling system can also impact ice and moisture buildup on your windows. If you can’t see, you can’t drive.

If you’re having a problem with your car’s heating and air conditioning system, what could be the problem?The Importance Of Your Car’s Heating and Air Conditioning System

What causes your car’s heater or air conditioner to stop working?

Many different things can cause the heater or air conditioner to stop working in your vehicle. Here are the most common situations.

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, it could be a refrigerant leak

Refrigerant is a specially formulated fluid designed for transforming hot air into cold air. It does this by absorbing heat, releasing it, and leaving cool air in its place. It has a similar purpose as motor oil or radiator coolant, with refrigerant specifically designed for the cooling system.

You may have heard of refrigerant referred to as Freon. Freon, also known as R12, was the primary chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) used within the air conditioning system to keep cars cooled until it was banned by the EPA in the mid 1990s. Freon has a chemical that depletes the ozone layer and causes all kinds of environmental concerns. When the EPA discovered its problems, it banned continued use and created a timetable for phase-out.

Today, the auto industry continues to switch to CFC-free refrigerant, which is safer and eliminates CFCs from being released into the environment. The EPA has issued guidelines that state all vehicles by 2021 will no longer use R134a, a replacement of R12, which is also shown to have a potent greenhouse gas with global warming potential. New climate-friendly refrigerants continue to be developed and will be added to newer models of vehicles.

A refrigerant leak in your vehicle can be a serious problem, depending on the age of your car. Newer cars may already use upgraded refrigerants, which make repair a fairly easy process. However, if your car is older and uses one of the older refrigerants, it could mean a complete replacement of your car’s air conditioning system to bring it up to date.

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, it could be a failed AC compressor

The AC compressor is the main component of your car’s air conditioning system. It forces refrigerant to flow through the entire system, giving you the cool air you demand.

On most of our modern day cars, the AC compressor is belt-driven. That means if your AC compressor isn’t working, it’s most likely a problem with the belt. Maybe the belt has slipped off the pulley. Or the belt has seized or failed entirely. In any case, your air conditioner will stop working entirely.

Because many modern day vehicles use one common serpentine belt to control a variety of your car’s accessories, you might notice other problems too if the belt breaks.

Age is also a factor. Like every part of your vehicle, the AC compressor will only last for so long. It wears out over time, and when it will no longer work, it’s time for replacement. When an AC compressor breaks, it can also send bits and particles of metal and other substances to other parts of your system. If you continue operating it without flushing the system out, you could wind up with bigger problems down the road.

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, it could be a failed blower motor

This one is pretty easy to detect. Sitting behind the vents in your dashboard is a fan called the blower motor. If it has a problem, no air will flow through the vents. It could be either a failed blower motor or a problem with the electrical system, so it’s a good idea to have the system assessed by one of our technicians.

If your heater is blowing cold air, it could be low coolant

The same system that is responsible for keeping your engine cool is what operates your heating system. If your car is having problems with the cooling system, it will ultimately cause an issue with your heating system too.

Your car operates with coolant, or antifreeze, to absorb heat from the rapidly moving parts in your vehicle.  If there is a leak in the system, it means there isn’t enough coolant to do its job. All it takes is topping off the coolant to fix the problem.

If your heater is blowing cold air, it could be a failed heater

Just like other parts of your vehicle, the heater core can rust, corrode, clog, and ultimately fail over time. If the heater goes bad, it will have to be replaced.

How to prevent issues with the car’s heating and air conditioning system

The good news is that with today’s newer cars, there is rarely a problem with the heating and cooling system unless there is a defect during the manufacturing process. If you have a newer car, you shouldn’t experience any problems with your heater or air conditioner until they reach 60,000 miles or more. The older the car is, the more miles you put on, the more risk you’ll have of experiencing a problem.

That’s why it’s equally important to know your car well. Don’t just drive your car and ignore the tiny details that make it unique. Instead, listen to the sounds it makes, watch the way your car handles, and pay attention to anything new that pops up as you drive. Don’t ignore warning signs; take action right away.

The best way to ensure your car’s heating and air conditioning system work properly for the life of your car is to ensure proper maintenance. That means taking your car regularly for check ups, to ensure everything is working the way it should. By having a trusted mechanic on your side, you’ll know your car will be there for you, working properly no matter how many miles you have to drive.

When was the last time you brought your vehicle in for maintenance?

5 Signs Your Shocks and Struts Need Replacing

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Don’t you just love the Colorado roads right now? When the snow clears away for a day or two, you still feel like you’re off-roading it down the highway. It’s a game of “how to avoid the potholes”, and all-too-often, the potholes win.

When you hit one, you cringe. You can feel the impact ripple through you and your vehicle. This can take its toll on how well your car handles.

A car’s suspension system is designed to hold up the weight of the vehicle, and absorb the impact of the road while providing the occupants a smooth ride. One of the critical components of the suspension system are shocks and struts.5 Signs Your Shocks and Struts Need Replacing

Both shocks and struts curb a car’s tendency to bounce while moving. Every time you start, stop, turn corners, or hit bumps in the road, it’s shocks and struts that create a smooth riding experience.

What are shocks and struts? What’s the difference?

Before we talk about possible problems with your vehicle’s shocks and struts, it’s important to understand what they are.

In many cases, the terms shocks and struts are used interchangeably, but they do provide two separate functions.

As a part of the suspension system, every vehicle has a combination of springs, and either shocks or struts. Springs are what support the weight of the vehicle to cushion the ride. This prevents the car’s passengers from experiencing harsh jolts as it rides on rough and uneven roads.

Shocks, also known as shock absorbers, do what their name implies: they absorb the shock of the road. Shocks aren’t a crucial piece of the suspension system; you could, in theory, remove them and still be able to drive. However, they are built into a vehicle to provide comfort and stability no matter what the conditions of the road are like.

Struts are an integral part of a vehicle’s suspension system. They play a key role in absorbing the roughness of the road. MacPherson struts are the most common struts on today’s vehicles. They combine the spring and strut together into one serviceable part. However, depending on the vehicle you drive, the two might be separate. In that case, the strut acts as a connecting point between the spring and the vehicle.

How do I know if my shocks and struts are bad?

Like other parts of your vehicle, shocks and struts have warning signs that they are failing. But they aren’t components you’ll replace on a regular basis. They are engineered to last anywhere from 50,000 to 90,000 miles or more, depending on how you drive.

Still, you can’t miss the signs that your shocks and struts are starting to fail. Have you experienced any of these signs?

Nose diving – this is probably one of the easiest signs to recognize; you’ll see this portrayed on television a lot. Cars stay level because of shocks and struts. If they aren’t working the way they are designed, every time you step on the brake pedal, your car will dip forward, with the nose diving towards the pavement in the process. There is also the possibility of the rear of your car bouncing down when you accelerate; this is known as squats.

Bouncing – the shocks and struts absorb the roughness of the road. However, if you notice your car bouncing up and down with each bump and you can feel it in the way you move up and down in your seat, your shocks and struts have a problem that should be serviced as soon as possible.

Tire bouncing – if the shocks and struts aren’t absorbing the impact of the road, the tires can take on the stress. If they aren’t connecting with the pavement as designed, they can wear before their time.

Fluid leaks – shocks and struts contain hydraulic fluid. As they wear, they can start leaking. If you notice what looks like a leak by your tires, bring it in to be serviced as soon as you can.

Handling problems – pay attention to the way your car handles no matter what the road conditions are. This will help you determine when things start to go wrong. Problems with shocks and struts can make your car shift from side to side even when the weather isn’t there to affect it. You should never feel a swaying motion as you drive.

Can I test for bad shocks and struts?

Still not sure if it’s your shocks and struts going bad? Luckily, there is a test you can perform to determine if your shocks and struts are in good working condition. It’s called the bounce test, and it works like this.

Move to the front or rear of your car. Push down as hard as you can, and then pull your hands away. If your car doesn’t bounce, your shocks and struts are fine. A bounce suggests that the shocks and struts are starting to wear, or a problem already exists. This is your sign that it’s time to get your vehicle serviced and have your shocks and struts replaced.

Your suspension system needs regular maintenance too

As a frequent driver, you’re probably in the habit of basic maintenance items. You bring it in for an oil change every few months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. You wash it and add windshield washer fluid seasonally.  You get new tires as the tread wears down.

Even if your vehicle isn’t showing any signs that the shocks and struts are going bad, it’s a good idea to have one of our mechanics evaluate your suspension system on an annual basis. This of it as cheap insurance to ensure your car is in good working order, and will keep you and your car’s occupants safe and secure, ready to enjoy the ride.

Shocks and struts are not the same, and are not interchangeable components of your vehicle. Whether they are structurally integrated together or are separate parts, it’s important to have both in good working condition to have a safe ride.

Are your shocks and struts in good condition?

How To Make Any Car Greener

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Ready to do your part for the environment this year? Looking for a way to make driving more eco-friendly, yet not in the market to buy a new electric car?

Don’t worry. There are lots of ways to make any car greener. It doesn’t take buying something new, or spending thousands of dollars converting your current car over. Instead, it just takes a little TLC to cut down on your vehicle’s carbon footprint.

According to the EPA, 29 percent of greenhouse gases come from transportation. If we want a healthy future to live and breathe in, it’s important we all do our part to reduce emissions wherever possible. Reducing your car’s emissions makes your car run better, makes it more cost effective to drive, as well as better for the environment. That’s a win/win for everyone.How To Make Any Car Greener

How do you start?

Start with regular tune-ups

Think of these as check-ups for your car. It’s a simple way to ensure your car is running at its optimal level. When you make sure your car is running correctly, you’ll save more money in the long run by having a car that runs better, and gets the best gas mileage it possibly can.

What does a tune-up entail? It starts with a regular oil change. Check your owner’s manual for guidance; usually every 5,000 miles or so, to ensure your engine is running smoothly. Of course, if your weekly trips are shorter, and it takes you months to hit 5,000 miles, you may choose to change your oil based on the calendar instead of mileage; ask one of our mechanics for suggestions.

Full tune-up inspections should be performed every one to two years, depending on your driving schedule. A complete tune-up includes checking and/or replacing:

  • Spark plugs
  • Wires, belts, and lines
  • Fuel filters
  • Air filters
  • Ignition system
  • Emissions system
  • Brake system
  • Engine timing
  • Computer control system

Check the tires

When was the last time you checked the pressure of your tires? Under-inflated tires won’t connect with the road as efficiently, meaning your car has to work harder for the same functionality. That impacts your car’s fuel efficiency.

Correct tire pressure depends on the make and model of your vehicle. The suggested range is generally included in your owner’s manual, or check for a sticker inside the driver’s door. Most gas stations have an air compressor allowing you to check and fill your tires. Unscrew the cap on your tire, then use the gauge on the filler to ensure you put in the right amount of air.

When your tires are properly filled, you’ll get the full lifespan. That means they won’t wear out early, causing you to replace them sooner. That means less waste in landfills.

Get in the habit of checking your tires at least once per month.

Have the fuel system checked

Your car’s fuel system ensures fuel is distributed optimally for high performance and low emissions. The fuel system contains several components, including the fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, and fuel injectors. If any of these parts are worn or defective, it’s going to result in reduced fuel efficiency.

On average, the fuel filter should be changed and fuel injectors flushed every 30,000 miles or so. By having this regularly checked, it will ensure your fuel system is in good working condition, and your car is greener and saves you money every time you fill up.

Of course, if you smell fuel in or near your car at any time, have the fuel system checked immediately. It could be a line or seal that is leaking, allowing fuel to drip from your car.

Fill your car up the right way

Your vehicle is designed with a fuel tank that will stop filling up and shut off the nozzle automatically. Yet many car owners “top off” the tank by squeezing a little bit more into the tank. This does two things:

First, it can allow harmful gas vapors to be released into the atmosphere. Today’s cars are built with an emissions canister that prevents vapors from being released. But when you “top off” the tank, you risk pushing liquid fuel into this canister, reducing the effectiveness. If you continually force fuel into this canister, it can eventually render it useless.

Second, it increases the likelihood of spilling gas. Spilled fuel is flammable, creating a dangerous environment. It also releases toxic vapors back into the atmosphere. It enough fuel is spilled, it can also leak into the groundwater.

Remove excess weight

In simplest terms, the more your car weighs, the more fuel it uses. That’s not saying you should strip down your current vehicle to take away more weight. Instead, it should be a goal to keep your car as clean as possible.

Take a look in your back seat and the trunk; how much stuff do you have stored? How often do you use it? Find a place in your garage you can store the “extras” and only take what’s absolutely necessary for the trip you’re planning. This gives you better gas mileage, and a greener driving experience.

Drive smarter

When was the last time you thought about how well you drive? For most of us, we simply get behind the wheel and drive. But there are many things you can do to make your car operate better and increase fuel economy.

If you’re an aggressive driver, find ways to back off. Some of it involves timing; leave a few minutes earlier, and you’ll have more time to get where you’re going. Also, avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and other aggressive behavior. This produces less wear and tear on the major systems and parts of your vehicle, as well as puts your car at less risk of being in an accident.

If you drive on the highway a lot, try to use your vehicle’s cruise control whenever possible. This allows your car to keep a steady pace without the need to slow down and speed up.

Avoid excessive idling. While this isn’t always possible if you drive in rush hour traffic each day, you can do things like control how much you drive, or consolidate errands so you’re not using your vehicle as much during the day. If you’re waiting for someone to run into a store, or picking up kids from school, turn your vehicle off instead of allowing it to run. You’re just sitting there and allowing fuel to burn up.

And if you notice a problem with your car, get it checked right away. The most eco-friendly cars are the ones that operate at peak performance. You can make your car greener simply by caring for your car, and working with one of our mechanics to keep it in good working condition throughout the year.

Spring Cleaning Repair and Maintenance Tips For Your Car

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Springtime in the Rockies means the days start getting longer, and we find more things to do outdoors.

Of course, the weather is more unpredictable than ever. March is traditionally the snowiest month of the year, with wild temperature swings that can make it feel like summer and winter all on the same day.

But on one of those warm afternoons, it’s a good idea to give your car a little TLC. It can ensure it drives well throughout the year, cleaning it up from all that winter dumped on it, and getting it ready for the sunnier days that will soon be upon us.

There’s another good reason to spend a little time with your car – the investment. Car’s today are one of the most expensive purchases you’ll make. A recent study by AAA found that the average person now spends $773.50 a month on their vehicles, the highest amount since AAA began tracking car expenses.Spring Cleaning Repair and Maintenance Tips For Your Car

A lot of that comes from the leasing or payment costs, as well as insurance. But the report also states that the average maintenance and repair costs climbed to 8.94 cents per mile, a figure that is up almost 9 percent over last year. This is due to caring for vehicles that are growing in complexity, having systems that require a lot of care to keep them functioning correctly.

One of the best things about newer vehicles, however, is they warn you of potential problems long before they occur. If you see a light turn on your dashboard, hear a funny noise, smell something unusual, or feel your car pulling or bouncing, it’s your car’s way of telling you it needs a little TLC.

Basic maintenance goes beyond filling up the car with gas, and scheduling an oil change on a regular basis. It also means taking care of every system in your car, replacing parts as necessary to avoid bigger problems down the road. If you build a routine into your schedule, checking fluids and maintaining parts regularly, you’re less likely to be caught off guard with problems. It’s the best way to avoid extensive repairs and a loss of value over time.

And the best part about it, it doesn’t take much to keep your vehicle well maintained. If you work with a trustworthy mechanic (like Express Car Care), you’ll ensure your car is ready for every season of the year, no matter what Denver’s weather looks like each day.

Our regular repair and maintenance tips include:

Check all nine fluids and use exceptional products

What’s the difference between McDonalds and Morton’s steakhouse? Both provide food. Both are places you can bring the family. Yet they both offer distinctly different products and experiences.

The same concept applies to the fluids you put into your vehicle. You can go with the lowest grade, least expensive products available, cutting corners where you can. But what will that do to your driving experience?

It starts with fluids you use every day, like gas, motor oil, and windshield washer fluid. It also includes fluids you don’t change out regularly, but still need to monitor throughout the life of your vehicle:

  • Coolant/antifreeze
  • Transmission fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Differential fluid
  • Brake fluid
  • Air conditioning refrigerant

Be sure each is replaced in a timely manner using high quality products.

Check and replace filters

Depending on your car’s make and model, you can have as many as four filters in your car: the cabin filter, oil filter, fuel filter, and air filter.

The cabin filter, also known as the air conditioning intake filter, keeps your inside air compartment clean whether you use your air conditioner or not. It helps filter out things like dust, pollen, and other pollutants in the air you breathe.

The oil filter will help keep debris out of the oil supply while the engine is running.

The fuel filter works to keep dirt, grime, and water out of your engine.

The air filter is designed to clean the air that is filtered into your car’s engine. Dirty air means an engine that won’t be able to operate a peak performance.

These are all easy to find and easy to replace. Some will even come with a full service oil change if you use the right mechanic.

Check belts and hoses

Over time, hoses need to be checked for leaks, brittleness, or cracks. Belts can stretch and loosen with use. They can also crack and break, damaging other parts and systems around them. This should be a simple process, one your mechanic can check in moments. It’s much more efficient (and cost effective) to replace small parts as they wear out rather than waiting for the damage they can produce.

Check the brake system each year

One of your most important systems is your brake system. It consists of several different parts including brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, and your wheels. If something happens to any one part, it can impact your car’s ability to stop. A mechanic will start with the brake pads and ensure they still have enough wear on them to keep you safe. They will also evaluate the entire braking system, repairing and maintaining any part that could be a potential hazard.

Your tires are a part of your braking system. Be sure to check the pressure on all of your tires, including your spare, at least once per month. Extreme weather conditions can impact air; check tire pressure to ensure they are properly filled to avoid blowouts and other potential problems. Check with your owner’s manual to find the proper pressure levels for your vehicle.

You should also check the tread for uneven wear, cuts or bruises along the tires and sidewalls, and potential hazards stuck into the tread. If you have a question, most reputable mechanics will take a look at your tires to ensure they are safe to drive on. Replace with the proper size and type when they show wear

You should also have your car aligned every year, to improve tire performance and handling as well as increase fuel efficiency.

Do you schedule repair and maintenance for your vehicles?

Your car goes through a lot each day. Reliability isn’t something you should take for granted; by scheduling regular repair and maintenance visits with a reliable mechanic, you’re ensuring your vehicle will be there when you need it.

Check with your manufacturer’s guidelines, and talk with one of our mechanics. Together, we’ll ensure your car is at peak performance level and ready to go whenever you are.

Making Your Vehicle Last

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A lot of people have older vehicles.  They’re good commuters, grocery store runners, or toy-haulers.  Their owners enjoy the fact that they’re paid off, or will be soon.  They would gladly like to make their vehicles last for 200,000 miles or more…as long as it’s economical for them to do so.

There are plenty of people whose vehicles are running after 150,000 or 200,000 miles.  We can learn from what they do to make their vehicles last, so we can keep our own cars on the road longer.

A common denominator is that they never skip an oil change.  That may sound a bit unsophisticated, but it’s really not.  First off, the oil is the life blood of your engine and needs to be clean to properly lubricate.  Skipping oil changes leads to clogged oil filters and sludge that can damage your engine.  Enough said.

There’s another reason the scheduled oil change is so important.  It’s simple – an Express Car Care technician is going to be looking at your car.  All of your fluid levels will be inspected and topped off so they won’t get so low that damage can be done.  If there is significant fluid loss – let’s use brake fluid as an example – your technician can look for the cause of the loss and find the problem before it leads to an accident or costly repair.

Your service technician will also visually inspect the vehicle for worn belts and hoses, uneven tire wear, leaking shock absorbers and more.  Problems get addressed before they lead to repairs that cost more than the car’s worth.  Your service adviser will also be able to remind you of other services that the factory recommends you get done.

Just think of an oil change in the same way you view a six month cleaning and checkup at the dentist – you shouldn’t skip it.

Of course, good maintenance costs money, but it’s far cheaper than new car payments.

Give us a call and schedule your next oil change today, or just bring it in –  you don’t need an appointment.

Car Maintenance 101: What To Do When Your Engine Overheats

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Food for thought: even one instance of your car’s engine overheating can permanently damage your engine. And that can be a very expensive venture.

While you might not think Colorado is the epicenter of car engine’s overheating, it does happen. Those 100 degree days can take their toll, especially if you climb up into the mountains, or tow your boat to your favorite reservoir.

Why do engines overheat?

Engines overheat for a variety of reasons. In most cases, it’s because the cooling system isn’t operating the way it should, so heat isn’t able to escape the engine compartment. It could be from a leak in the cooling system, a radiator fan gone bad, a broken water pump, or a bad coolant hose. The moment you notice a problem, quick action should be taken. If not, your engine might sustain permanent damage.

What are the signs of an engine overheating?Car Maintenance 101: What To Do When Your Engine Overheats

Like every part in your car, you’ll likely have a few warning signs before your car’s engine hits a critical point and overheats. Act quickly, and you can reduce the risk of irreversible damage. Watch for:

  • Steam – if you notice steam escaping around the edges of your car’s hood, seek assistance
  • High temperature gauge – those dashboard warning gauges are there for a reason. If you notice the gauge quickly escalating to “H” or red, you have a problem.
  • Smell – any unusual smell that comes from your car engine area should be checked out. Leaking coolant will have a sweet smell, while an oil leak may have more of a burnt smell.

If you notice any of these happening to your vehicle, your quick action will make the difference between a simple repair job or complete replacement.

What to do when your engine overheats?

Engines overheat mostly in the summer for a reason. High temperatures put stress on your car, and you increase that stress by cranking up the air conditioner as high as it will go. At the first sign of overheating, turn off the air conditioner to reduce the stress. Then turn on the heat to maximum levels to help pull heat away from the engine. Pull over as soon as possible.

Once you’re safely off the road, shut off the car. Your engine will need at least 15 minutes to cool down. While you wait, watch the temperature gauge; does it move back into the normal range? You can also take note of what’s happening to share with your auto mechanic. Then start creating a plan.

You’ll need a tow truck to bring your vehicle in to be serviced. This isn’t the time to trust the local garage right off the highway. Instead, bringing your vehicle into us here at Express Car Care ensures you have a mechanic you can trust to give you the real scoop on what’s happening with your vehicle.

You can also check your coolant levels and see if they are running low. This may be a sign you have a leak in the coolant system, a broken radiator fan, or trouble with the water pump. If you do have extra coolant with you, topping it off can further help protect your engine.

While towing is your best course of action, if it’s not an option, carefully start your car after it’s cooled completely. Drive it into our shop, keeping a careful eye on the temperature gauge as you drive. Turn the car off quickly if any further signs of overheating show up.

What shouldn’t you do when your engine overheats?

We’ve all seen cars off to the side of the road, hood up, smoke billowing out all around it. In reality, opening your hood immediately isn’t good advice. Instead, wait until your engine cools before popping the hood. Opening the hood immediately puts you at greater risk of burns or injury as smoke and steam flow out. Wait until the engine temperature gauge returns to normal range before opening your hood.

Don’t ignore the problem, thinking that if the temperature gauge returned to normal, the problem no longer exists. It does. This was a warning sign of things to come. It will get worse if you don’t address the situation soon. We can help you get to the root of the problem, requiring far less repair work now than if you wait until the situation becomes worse.

You should also stop driving as soon as possible. This doesn’t mean find the nearest exit and drive to a service station. It means pulling over to the side of the road as soon as you can. For every mile you continue to drive your car, further damage occurs to your engine, and greater risk of permanently damaging it increases.

Is there a way to prevent an engine from overheating?

The easiest way to prevent engine overheating is to maintain your vehicle properly. That means scheduling regular maintenance visits to allow one of our mechanics to evaluate your car’s system fully, and repair and maintain each system as needed.

You already know how important changing out motor oil is. Your vehicle’s other systems require regular maintenance too. Your engine’s coolant should be flushed and refilled as needed. Radiator should be up to date according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Routine maintenance can also stay on top of leaks, cracks, and wearing hoses and belts, giving you increased opportunities for catching problems before they occur.

While engine overheating can occur in all vehicles, it’s more problematic the older a car gets. Older vehicles will need more maintenance over time. As long as you replace parts, add fluids, and regularly check to ensure systems are operating the way they should, you’ll have a car you can depend on.

It’s difficult to predict when a problem is going to occur with your engine. But if you stay ahead of potential problems by regularly maintaining your vehicle, and know the warning signs and what to do in the event your engine overheats, you’ll be more likely to lessen the risk.

We’re here to help you with all of your car repair needs.

Car Maintenance Tips When You Don’t Use Your Car Very Often

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We had a customer ask an interesting question the other day, and I thought it would be a great tip to share with you. She asked:

“My mom rarely drives her car. She may take it out a few times a year at most because she isn’t getting around easily anymore. It sits in the garage most of the time. Are there any special car maintenance items I should worry about? I would say she’s putting less than a thousand miles on the car per year. I want to make sure it runs well when she does get in it. ”

Car Maintenance Tips When You Don’t Use Your Car Very OftenA car sitting in a garage, barely used, sounds like the perfect way to preserve a vehicle. If it doesn’t hit the streets regularly, nothing wears out … right?

Think again.

A car that just sits there unused still requires care. It has a lot of stress on it because it isn’t running regularly. Therefore it will have different problems than a car you use every day.

Ever heard the phrase “use it or lose it”? In some manner, that phrase applies to cars too. Cars are all about performance. They are designed to operate when you need them. But if fluids aren’t running through the system regularly, if parts just sit there adjusting to the elements without doing their jobs, wear still occurs.

If you have a car that is rarely used, the way you care for it while not driving it can effect the way it performs. Prepare your vehicle to care for the exterior, the battery, and the engine, and it’ll be there for you whenever you decide to use it.

“Whichever Comes First” Car Maintenance Plan

You’ve probably seen those little stickers some car maintenance shops stick on windshields to remind you to get your oil changed. They remind you to schedule your next oil change on a specific date, or when you reach a certain mileage threshold, whichever comes first. That’s a good approach to car maintenance when your car doesn’t move very much.

A car that sits won’t put the mileage on, but things like oil and additives are still sitting, aging, even though the car never leaves the garage. And it’s good to replace all of that to ensure the parts stay lubricated the way they should.

When in doubt, always schedule a maintenance visit with your local mechanic based on the calendar, not on mileage.

Keep The Car Clean

If at all possible, clean the car before it sits for extended periods of time. This is especially true here in Colorado, where all kinds of things can settle in on the paint or undercarriage during seasonal driving patterns – think mag-chloride, salts, sap, etc. At a minimum, run it through the carwash whenever you get the chance. Better yet, give it a deep cleaning removing even the hard-to-remove dirt and debris, polishing, and waxing it to help protect it against the elements. Pay attention to the undercarriage too, as rust can set in if harmful chemicals settle in.

Keep The Gas Tank Full

If you know the car will be sitting in the garage for an extended time period, it’s better to sit with a full tank than one that’s partially empty. Gas has a shelf life of around six months. As gas is manufactured from crude oil, it’s mixed with a variety of refining products. That’s what makes gasoline perform in your vehicle, and keeps it as clean as possible for the environment.

It’s a careful balancing act to ensure gasoline is at its peak performance, while providing you with the necessary qualities to ensure your car will go. Over time, the qualities change. You even put in different gas depending on the time of year – winter gas is a different blend to ensure your car will go no matter what the temperature is outside.

If your car will sit in the garage, keeping the tank full will help prevent moisture from building up in the tank, which can degrade the quality of the gasoline. But keep in mind that whenever you can, it’s a good idea to run gas through the system to keep all parts operating at their best.

Top Off Fluids

Gas isn’t the only fluid that keeps your car running strong. Brake fluid, engine coolant, transmission fluid, antifreeze, even windshield washer fluid all have a purpose for your car.

While every make and model has different requirements, it’s good to have a mechanic perform a routine car maintenance check periodically to ensure all parts are at optimal performance. For example, brake pads might not wear if a car isn’t used much. But that won’t stop leaks from forming in the system, impacting the braking performance of the vehicle. Periodic checks will ensure the safety of the vehicle whenever someone sits behind the wheel.

Protect The Battery

A car battery will, on average, last around six years. Of course, that depends on how it’s treated throughout its life.

The purpose of a battery isn’t to keep the car running. Instead, it’s about providing the necessary power to get the car moving. But that doesn’t mean if you don’t use it, it won’t slowly drain. Other things can drain a battery – headlights left on, GPS or cell phones plugged in, interior lights left on. Even sitting there will eventually take its toll.

If you know the car will sit without running for an extended period of time, you might also disconnect the battery to prevent corrosion.

Other Concerns

If a car sits for too long in one location, you might have other things to deal with. A nice warm garage is often a place where mice or other critters take refuge. Check for chewed belts, hoses, or nests, which can be built just about anywhere.

Windshield wipers might also crack or break easier. Because the rubber sits, it can dry out faster than when it faces elements each day.

You should also test tire pressure periodically. Reflate them to the recommended levels; you can find that in the car manual, or check online for the make and model.

Schedule Car Maintenance Today

Not everyone drives in the same manner. While most of us drive our cars almost every day, others rarely get behind the wheel. And when a car sits idle for too long, things happen.

The best way to keep a vehicle running no matter how it’s used is to schedule car maintenance checkups every year. If you haven’t had your car serviced because of lack of mileage, schedule it today to ensure everything is running the way it should.

Air Quality

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Air quality affects all drivers no matter where we are.  Many decades ago, people began to become more aware of how air pollution negatively affects our health.  But have you ever thought about the air quality inside your vehicle?

Cabin air filters are now coming standard on most new vehicles since the 2000 model year.  These filters clean the air in the passenger compartment, so the poor air quality outside your vehicle doesn’t come inside.

They can filter particles down to three microns…that’s good enough to clean out dust, pollen and most air pollutants.  If you suffer from allergies, this is certainly good news, but even if you don’t, this is still a good thing.

You can look in your owner’s manual to see if you have a cabin air filter.  If you do, there will be a recommendation for replacing it when it gets dirty.  If you live where there’s a lot of dust, pollen or pollution,  you may need to change it more often than recommended.  You can also ask your Express Car Care service adviser.

The difficulty of changing a cabin air filter depends on your vehicle.  Some are quite accessible, others can take some time getting to them.  They’re usually located in the engine compartment or under the dashboard.

Because cabin air filters are somewhat new on the scene, some drivers haven’t heard of them – even people who have cabin air filters in their vehicles.  Express Car Care service advisers report customers complaining of an unpleasant odor in their vehicle and it usually turned out to be a dirty cabin air filter.

An important note for hybrid owners:  there’s a special air filter that cleans the air that cools the hybrid battery pack.  This filter should be inspected every time the cabin air filter is inspected and replaced.  If this filter gets dirty then the battery pack can overheat.

Have You Overlooked These Car Maintenance Problems?

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Outside of your housing costs, your vehicle is probably your second biggest expense. A recent study showed that the average loan for a new car was $31,099, with an average monthly payment of $515.

Think used cars are a better deal? Even used car purchases average $21,375, with a payment per month of $398.

That’s a lot of money flowing out each month.

If you keep your vehicle in good shape, you can minimize additional expenses to keep your car running. But without a car maintenance plan in place, you’ll experience problems soon after you drive it home for the first time.Have You Overlooked These Car Maintenance Problems?

What does it take to create an effective plan? What does it take to avoid car maintenance problems and ensure your car is ready whenever you are? Put these basic tasks into your schedule to keep your car running its best all year long.

Wash Your Car

It almost sounds too simple, doesn’t it? How can washing your car help you keep your car problem-free?

Let’s start by looking at what your car goes through just driving you around town each day. In the winter, mag chloride and road salts are dumped onto the road before any threatening storm. Mix in a little moisture, and they stick like glue all over your car. But don’t think it gets better in the summer. Bird droppings, sap, pollen, bug splats, and more find a way to get into every nook and cranny of your vehicle.

All of that can corrode the paint, damage the undercarriage of your car, and destroy the integrity of many of your vehicle’s safety systems.

Luckily, the solution is easy. Wash your car at least twice per month to get all the muck away from the essential parts and systems. This will keep it shining and looking as good as possible for wherever the road takes you. And let’s be honest, it just feels better driving a nice looking car, doesn’t it?

Check fluids

Your car has a number of fluids in it to keep it running its best. Some you know well – hello, gasoline. If your car has gas, it goes. Without it, it stops. We’re all naturally trained to watch the tiny gauge on our dashboards, driving into a gas station before the needle touches the “E”.

But cars don’t run on gasoline alone. There are many other fluids used to ensure a vehicle is operating correctly. According to a Popular Mechanics article, there are six fluids you should check on a regular basis:

Motor Oil – your engine is the hub, controlling every aspect of your car. Motor oil keeps everything lubricated and working smoothly.

Coolant – your vehicle builds up a lot of heat as it operates. Coolant helps absorb heat produced by the engine, and moves it through the radiator to keep your car from overheating.

Power Steering Fluid – want to keep your steering wheel turning effortlessly? Ensure your power steering fluid is topped up and that no leaks are in the system.

Brake Fluid – without brake fluid, when you press down on the brake pedal, your car won’t stop the way it should. While this isn’t a fluid you top off like motor oil, it is something a mechanic should check if you have trouble braking.

Transmission fluid – it has a similar purpose as oil, designed to cool the parts inside your transmission.

Windshield washer fluid – this is mandatory fluid here in Colorado to ensure you see where you’re driving.

Maintain your tires

Tires aren’t something you put on and forget. They keep your car rolling in all kinds of conditions. But as they operate in freezing temperatures and triple-digit weather, they change. They’ll lose pressure even if they’re operating correctly. That’s why it’s mandatory that you check tire pressure regularly.

Do you know how much air to put into your tires? Don’t look at your tires for the answer. Instead, check your owner’s manual or search for a sticker on the driver’s door jamb. You’ll find advice on what the proper tire pressure levels are.

You’ll also find recommendations on rotating your tires. This ensures they wear evenly, which gives you maximum wearability out of each set of tires you buy.

Change air filter

Some of the biggest car maintenance problems develop because car owners avoid doing the simplest of things. Changing out your air filter is one of them.

It can be done in a matter of seconds, but the implications can be long-lasting. An air filter is designed to keep harmful dirt and debris away from your engine. By changing it out regularly, you’re keeping the engine’s performance at its best. You’re also ensuring the engine works properly, and fuel economy is maximized.

Often, an air filter is changed out during a normal oil change. Ask to ensure yours is changed.

Check belts and hoses

Belts and hoses are in constant motion, helping keep all of your systems operating the way they should. As they wear, they put you at more risk of being stranded as they crack, leak, or break.

For example, if a serpentine belt breaks, it can cause failure in a number of your car’s systems, including power steering or your air conditioning. If a radiator hose develops a leak, it can lose coolant that is necessary to keep your engine from overheating.

The cost of a new belt or hose is far less than the damage caused by having them fail. It can be the difference between a simple car maintenance item, or a full-blown failure with an extensive repair bill.

What’s the easiest way to tell if your car has a problem with belts and hoses? Pay attention to your car. Does it make funny sounds? Does your car act differently? Do you smell something odd? Pay attention and consult a mechanic as needed.

With just a little effort, your car will continue to run well from the moment you drive it home for the first time. It’ll keep you and your family safe as you move through your busy days. If you have a question about your vehicle, just ask. 

Question on Your Drive Shaft

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Question:  My name is Doug and a few years ago, I was driving my 1985 powder blue Dodge Ram Charger that had about 80,000 miles on it at that time.  I was going up a hill and heard a noise like a tin can rolling down the road.  I looked back and saw my drive shaft bouncing down the hill.  I put it in four-wheel drive and drove to my mechanic to get it fixed.  What could I have done to prevent that?

Answer:  Wow, that’s quite a story.  Doug was very fortunate that his vehicle had a part-time four-wheel drive system that would allow him to get home without a rear drive shaft.

This case of “the missing drive shaft” highlights the need for regular inspections.  Most of us are familiar with recommendations for preventative maintenance services like oil changes and coolant replacement.  What may not be as familiar to you is that there are also recommendations for inspections at various intervals.

By the time a vehicle gets 80,000 miles on it,  like Doug had on his vehicle, the owner’s manual would have called for inspections of things like the suspension, brakes, and the drive line.  Chances are that such an inspection would have revealed early signs of a worn u-joint and Doug could have had it fixed before his drive shaft went rattling down the road.

Ask your service adviser about the inspections your vehicle might need so something like this doesn’t happen to you.

Give us a call or come in and see us.

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