Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Serpentine Belt Replacement

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

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

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

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

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

Give us a call and let us help you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do you know if your transmission is failing? 

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

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

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

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

How long does it take to replace a transmission?

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

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

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

How often should I change my transmission fluid?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Know your options

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

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

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

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

What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Broken Struts

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

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

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

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

What is a car strut?

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

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

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

Is it safe to drive a car with bad struts?

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

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

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

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

What are the symptoms of bad struts?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I buy new struts?

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

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

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

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

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

Signs Your Car Needs An Oil Change

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

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

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

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

What does car oil do?

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

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

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

How often should you change car oil?

That depends on what car you drive.

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

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

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

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

What is synthetic car oil?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mileage

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

Dates

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

Check engine light

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

Noise

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

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

The Most Damaged Suspension System Car Parts When You Hit Potholes

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

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

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

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

Over and over this occurs, all winter long.

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

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

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

What a pothole can do to your car

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Signs Your Car Needs A New Transmission

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warning signs your car needs a new transmission include:

Problems shifting gears

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

Pay attention to the process. Do you notice:

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

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

Grinding between gears

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

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

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

Whining noises

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

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

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

Cloudy transmission fluid

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

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

Burning odor

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

Leaking transmission fluid

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

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

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

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

Fuel System Cleaning

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Fuel, whether gasoline or diesel, is delivered to your engine to be burned in order to generate the power needed to keep you moving.  This fuel leaves a residue as it moves through your fuel system.  This may not seem like much, but it can cause big problems.  Gum and varnish build up inside fuel lines, the throttle body and injectors.  It’s like plaque build-up in your arteries – it restricts the free flow of fuel and can even clog your fuel injectors.

In addition, carbon from combustion starts to accumulate on the valves, inside the combustion chamber and on your pistons.  This interferes with proper mixing of fuel and air and can prevent your valves from sealing properly.  This means you will have less power, a rough running engine and wasted fuel – and could even lead to expensive damage over time.

A fuel system cleaning clears out the gum and varnish from your fuel system and gets your injectors working properly, restoring power and fuel efficiency.  Carbon deposits are dissolved, and your engine starts running like new again.

If your engine seems sluggish and less responsive than it used to be, it might mean that you are in need of a fuel system cleaning.  Ask your service adviser if a fuel system cleaning is the right thing for you.

Give us a call or come in and see us, we’re here to help.

What If I Drive With A Broken Suspension?

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For many people, a car is simply a tool that helps them go from point A to point B. They get in, drive it, and expect it to be ready when they want to hop in once again.

But a car is actually an intricate set of systems all working together to keep you safe and secure while you move throughout your busy day. You rarely think about what could go wrong until it actually does.What If I Drive With A Broken Suspension?

Often, people don’t ask questions like “what if I drive with a broken suspension” until they encounter a problem with their cars. At that point, it’s a little too late to be able to do anything more than call a tow truck and pay the costs.

Every automobile on the road today is designed with a suspension system. The suspension system is a collection of parts designed to keep your car off the ground and in motion as it moves from here to there. It keeps you comfortable as you hit bumps. It keeps you secure as you move through turns and corners.

Every piece of your suspension system plays a part in the process. If one part goes out, it impacts the entire process.

Your suspension system consists of:

  • Wheels
  • Tires
  • Springs
  • Shocks
  • Steering system
  • All the parts that connect the system together

Like all parts, each is designed to last for only so long. From the moment you drive off the showroom floor, wear and tear occurs to each part a little differently. It depends on driving conditions. It also depends on your driving habits.

Over time, it starts to falter. It doesn’t perform the way it once did. You start noticing problems. The squeaks. The clicks. Or maybe it feels like you traded your luxury car in for a truck. You feel every bump in the road.

Parts wear down over time. But in some cases, it goes a step further. You face a broken suspension system instead of one that’s just in need of repair. What then? Is it safe to drive? Do you need to call a tow truck?

In most cases, a broken suspension means immediate replacement. It needs repair before you can drive. But it also depends on what part brakes.

Wheels

Wheel system failures are almost always caused by the improper installation of the wheel itself. During installation, as the wheel is being mounted, lug nuts or other intricate parts to the wheel aren’t tightened the way they should. As they loosen, the wheel studs break and the wheel separates from the car. This can also occur with improper maintenance, or manufacturer’s defects.

Tires

Your tire is one of the most common reasons for broken suspension failures. If your tire is flat, you can’t drive on it for even short distances. If you put too much pressure on the wheel without the protection of the tire, you’ll destroy the wheel. And without properly inflated tires, you won’t be able to stop or handle the car around curves and turns the way you can under normal conditions. It becomes difficult to steer, slowing down is problematic, and you’re at greater risk for getting into an accident. Change the tire as soon as you discover it’s flat.

Springs

Every car has a coil spring within the suspension system. The coil springs allow the wheels to carry the car vertically, while also holding the rest of the car together. The size of the spring determines the height of the ride. If the coil spring breaks, your car will appear to sit lower than normal. You’ll often find the coil springs start to rust over time where they connect to the suspension system. A broken spring will also affect wheel alignment and cause a distinct rattling noise. If you keep driving on it, it can become dislodged if you hit a bump or pothole, and possibly damage other parts of your suspension system.

Shocks and Struts

If a shock absorber no longer works, you’ll notice your car starts to bounce quite a bit. It may also squat or dive excessively as you apply the brakes. All of these can make the car uncomfortable to ride in, but more importantly, it can also make it difficult to control. Especially as you pick up speed. If you discover you have a broken shock absorber, never increase to highway speeds. Avoid tailgating, taking corners too fast, or braking or stopping quickly.

The struts are part of the suspension system that hold the body of the car off the ground. Struts connect many different parts of the suspension system, including the coil spring and shock absorber. They impact both your car’s steering and alignment. If your car’s struts break, it’s similar to having both your shocks and coil springs break. That means your ride will both be uncomfortable to drive, have the possibility of damaging other parts on your car, and unsafe.

Steering system

Have you started to notice your steering is acting funny? It might be your steering rack or something like tie rod ends. With the rack and pinion steering system, it connects the movement of the left-right steering wheel to the left-right tires to make the wheels turn. The steering column itself sits on a pinion gear that turns, connects the gears in the rack, and gives it the left-right control. The “power” in power steering comes from pressurized fluid flowing through the passages that give you the power to turn the wheels. This fluid also keeps everything cool and prevents damage as metal hits metal. It’s important to change this fluid on a regular basis, according to your car manufacturer’s guidance.

Other

Your car’s suspension system has too many parts to discuss them all here. But every one of them is necessary to keep your car working properly and to keep you safe as you drive. If any part fails, it can make your driving experience unsafe at best.

If you think you have a problem, don’t put it off. Schedule a maintenance appointment today, and we’ll ensure your car is in the best working condition possible. It’ll give you confidence to know your car is as safe as it can be.

 

Signs Your Car Needs A Tune Up

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Has your vehicle been acting up lately? Are there signs your car needs a tune up?

In a way, cars and people are a lot alike. We both operate well when we take in the right “fuel.” We both have early warning signs when something isn’t right. And problems can easily grow if we continue to ignore those warning signs.

Check ups and tune ups are very similar; both are designed to test from every angle, and make suggestions as to how to proceed. Once you discover there’s a problem, no matter how small, you can use that data to make minor repairs. And hopefully, that can help prevent bigger problems down the road.Signs Your Car Needs A Tune Up

You know when it’s time for a tune up in one of two ways.

1. Your car starts giving hints it’s time for a tune up. It vibrates, squeals, shakes, hesitates, misfires, stalls, fails an emissions test, or has trouble starting.

2. Your car hits a mileage marker. While older makes and models would require tune ups every 10,000 miles or so, today’s technology allows vehicles to travel much further before a tune up is needed. Check with your manufacturer’s guidelines to determine what’s best for your vehicle.

When you bring your vehicle in, the mechanic on duty should talk with you about your car’s condition. Just like a doctor should never start testing without a few questions first, a mechanic shouldn’t start with routine maintenance without talking to you about performance.

You can help even more by noting your car’s behavior a few days before your appointment. In some cases, you may have overlooked a warning sign, simply because you’ve grown accustomed to the noise. Use your phone’s note feature to keep track of any issues, or keep a pen and paper handy and write down any concerns. This will give you critical information that can help your mechanic get to the root of the problem.

What should you watch for?

Warning lights

Yes, those pesky little lights that crowd your dashboard are there for a reason. When they light up, they are signaling something is wrong (if nothing more than a tripwire gone bad.) In modern cars, you’ll have warning lights for small things, such as a tail light burning out, to more complex problems, such as transmission failure. Every warning light is designed to light up and give you plenty of time to get the problem fixed. Pay attention to these warning lights, and get your car analyzed as quickly as you can. It can be the difference between paying a small amount for a small problem, and a costly problem from an emergency situation.

Poor gas mileage

Do you track your gas mileage each time you fill-up? It can be a great indicator when something starts to go wrong. When your car starts losing efficiency, it can be from a variety of causes. Maybe your tire pressure is waning. Maybe it’s an air filter that’s clogged. Or something more. When you track your mileage, you can use it as a baseline, so you have advanced warning of when something goes wrong.

Starting problems

People have all kinds of reasons for slowing down and taking more time to get out the door in the morning. Your car doesn’t. When running correctly, it should always start without hesitation. If it doesn’t, it’s a warning signal that something isn’t right. If you have to turn the key more than once for it to fire up, or it won’t stay running, you have a problem. It could be a sign of a weakening battery, or a sign of something more.

Stalling

Have you ever sat at a stoplight and had your car stop working? Or maybe you try to accelerate, and your engine sputters out? This can be a sign of bigger problems with your engine, which could be dangerous as you’re out on the road. If your engine can’t provide reliable performance, it can leave you in precarious situations. You never want to be sitting by the side of a busy road, wondering what’s wrong with your car.

Regular maintenance

There are certain car maintenance items you do continuously just by owning a car. You fill it with fuel when it runs empty. You replace the motor oil on a regular basis. You add in a new air filter when you’re changing the oil. These simple tasks can sometimes reveal other problems. Is your air filter clogging more between changes? A clogged air filter can impact both fuel economy and acceleration.

Rough shifting

Even if your car is an automatic, it still shifts into gear as you accelerate and slow down. There’s a smoothness to it; if you hear it and it clunks, it’s not as efficient as it should be. Pay attention to the noises as you speed up and slow down. Do you have trouble when you try and put it into reverse? All of this is a sign your transmission needs a little attention. The gears in your car rely on transmission fluid, filters, and screens to operate properly. If these aren’t properly maintained, they can impact the way your car drives.

Noises

Those squeaks, bangs, squeals, and pings are trying to tell you something. It’s your job to listen to where they are coming from. Your brakes should be quiet, for example, without making noise as you press down on the pedal and come to a stop. When they start to squeal, they are telling you something is wrong. Brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid all wear and eventually need replacing.

Of course, that isn’t the only part that will start to make noise. It may be a worn belt, low fluid, or a noise from a failing part. Turn down the radio and listen; what do you hear? How would you describe it? Where do you think it’s coming from? When does it occur? The more information you can provide, the faster it will be to diagnose the problem, and get to the root cause.

Start with your owners manual

Do you know the signs your car needs a tune up? Do you pay attention to what your vehicle is trying to tell you? The best place to start is by reading your owner’s manual. How often should you get a tune up? What are the manufacturer’s guidelines? If you don’t have it handy, you can always Google it and find it.

Then pay attention to your car’s warning signs. And bring your car in today for a tune up; we’ll help you keep it in top shape for years to come.

Maintenance Mindset

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Maintenance MindsetWe know we need to take care of our cars, but it just seems too hard to remember to do it.  We generally accept that there are many things in life that require regular maintenance, but we just may not have applied it to our vehicles yet.

For example, we water and mow the lawn regularly.  Most of us weed the flower beds and rake leaves in the yard.  We go to the dentist twice a year and some of us even go to the gym regularly in an effort to maintain our health.  Flu shots and doctors check-ups for the kids before they start school.  We all have a maintenance mindset when it comes to life, we just have to learn to apply that mindset to our vehicles.  If you never brush your teeth or go to the dentist, you’ll become painfully aware of your neglect when you get cavities.  And if you never maintain your vehicle with regular oil changes and inspections, your vehicle isn’t going to run.  Too many people have had to learn the hard automotive lesson when they have to bring their vehicle to the auto center on the back of a tow truck.  So many times, a little routine maintenance would have prevented a breakdown.

A maintenance mindset will help:  The key to good vehicle maintenance starts with the oil change.  Think about it – when you go in for a full-service oil change, your tech will check all your fluids.  If one of them is low, he can look for the reason why.  If your serpentine belt is worn, he’ll see it and let you know.  Corroded battery cable- they’ve got you covered.  All of this takes a trained and experienced eye – more than you find at a quick lube center.  And they’ll check to see if your manufacturer has recommended any services at your current mileage.

To get started on your maintenance mindset, come in for an oil change, and you’ll get a visual inspection and a reminder for recommended services so you can avoid total failure.  And remember your service adviser can help you work out a maintenance and repair plan, prioritizing and scheduling the work to make sure you and your family are safe and help you avoid expensive breakdowns.

Brakes Service

Oil Change

Suspension

Transmision Service

Engine Service

Auto Tips & Tricks