Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

A Few “Key” Facts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Your Car May Fail The Emissions Test

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

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

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

Years ago, Colorado set up a program to monitor gas emissions from vehicles. Its goal was to keep the worst Why Your Car May Fail The Emissions Testpolluters off of the roads. Several counties require an emissions test to register a vehicle, including:

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

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

What an emissions test checks for

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

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

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

But what if your emissions test fails?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auto Repair Inspection For Before You Buy A New Used Car

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One of the good reasons for having an auto mechanic on your side is they can help you through all kinds of situations. It’s nice knowing you’ll get an honest answer to all of your vehicle questions.

While that may be important if you notice a squeak when you apply the brakes, or hear a noise as you drive through a turn, it’s equally important when you consider buying a used car.

Used cars have been through a lot as they travel down the road. Yes, it might look good from the outside, the paint might be in good condition, the interior might be spotless. But how do you know if the internal workings of the car make it a good used car?

That’s why knowing a reputable auto mechanic can help you out.

If you’re looking at buying a used car, it’s important to do your homework before you start the search.

According to AARP, the average mileage per year is between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. That means for a five-year-old vehicle, having between 60,000 and 70,000 miles on the odometer isn’t out of the ordinary.

The Bureau of Transportation states that today’s vehicles on the road average just over 11 years. The standard vehicle being built today can fully be expected to continue running through 200,000 miles and more, with some inching their way towards 300,000.

Auto Repair Inspection For Before You Buy A New Used CarThere are a lot of reasons to keep your vehicle that long. The obvious is to save money on the price of purchasing a new vehicle.

That also makes it worth the time to buy a vehicle only a few years old. You can easily expect a vehicle to give you years of quality life, even if you purchase one a few years old.

That’s one of the biggest reasons it’s worth your time to ensure you’re buying a quality used car.

Inspections aren’t required when you buy a used car

There aren’t specific laws that give you the authority to have an inspection before you purchased a used vehicle. However, the Federal Trade Commission does advise people on specific steps people should take before you buy a used car.

Some are obvious:

  • Test drive the car on varied road conditions – on hills, highways, and stop and go traffic
  • Determine the value before you negotiate the price

Still others are great advice:

  • Ask for the car’s maintenance records from the owner
  • Get an independent review of the vehicle’s history. You can check with the Department of Justice’s National Motor Vehicle Title Information System to find out information about the vehicle’s title, which can help you determine if the car has been in an accident, flood damage, and other possible risk factors.

And finally, they recommend considering hiring a mechanic to inspect the car.

If the seller is reputable and is sure of the condition of the car, they will be happy to allow an inspection to take place. If, however, they are hiding something, an argument about this process should be your warning sign.

What will a good mechanic check on a vehicle inspection?

There are certain things you can do as a potential used car buyer. You can perform a road test to see how the car drives. You can check the odometer for mileage. You can check the headlights and taillights to ensure everything is working. You can use visual cues to help determine how well the owner took care of the car.

But a good mechanic will go deeper into how the car operates. They look at:

Tire inspection – this is a good indicator for how well the car is maintained. They look for uneven wear at the inside or outside edges. They look for jagged edges in the tread. They look for uneven cupped patterns that may indicate suspension problems.

Test drive – a good mechanic is trained to pick up small noises that occur as you drive around. They take it through a series of tests, including highway driving, up and down hills, and in stop and go traffic, to see how it handles. Clunks, rattles, squeaks, and clicking noises can all be indicators of potential problems. If they note a sound, they can check it more thoroughly back in the shop.

Stop test – while it’s not something any of us should do on a regular basis, occasionally, you might have to slam on the brakes to come to a stop. The way your car brakes can tell you a lot. It’s also a good test before you buy a used car. In a safe area, doing a hard stop from 40 miles per hour will show how the braking system works. Does it pull to one side? Does it lock up? Do the brakes pulsate? A vehicle with all of its systems working correctly will stop in a straight line.

Fluid test – first and foremost, motor oil should be honey-colored and translucent. If it’s dark or has a sour smell, it could be a sign of a problem, and at the very least alert you to the fact that the previous owner didn’t change out the motor oil on a regular basis. It’s not the only fluid that should be checked. A mechanic will check for leaks, and ensure all other fluids are in good condition.

Of course, depending on where you go, mechanics can do a variety of other things to, depending on the age, make, and model of your car. Hooking it up to a diagnostics test can reveal hidden problems. Putting it up on a rack to look at the undercarriage, and giving the body a thorough evaluation can point out potential issues.

If you’re in the market for a good used vehicle, don’t overlook what a thorough inspection can do for you. It can be the difference between buying a lemon and investing in a quality car that will give you years of reliability.

Key Reasons Why Cars Last Longer Than Ever Before

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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average car is driven about 15,000 miles per year. The New York Times found that fifty to sixty years ago, the average expected life of a vehicle was around 100,000 miles. Today, because of better technology, tighter tolerances, and better anti-corrosion coatings, the average life is closer to 200,000.

Cars are lasting longer than ever before. While that may be good for you as the car owner, it can compromise the overall driving experience if it isn’t well maintained. The average age of cars and light trucks on the road has reached peak levels to 11.8 years in 2019. It’s predicted to be more than 84 million vehicles on the road at least 16 years old by 2023. That poses significant problems, especially when car manufacturers 16 years ago weren’t thinking about that kind of longevity.

Why are coats lasting longer?

And equally important, what can you do to ensure your vehicle will last you for many years to come?

Improving the way a vehicle is assembled

Key Reasons Why Cars Last Longer Than Ever BeforeThe way cars are produced has changed a lot over the years. To say they’ve gone through a massive overhaul in the last century would be an understatement.

The first cars were powered by steam at the turn of the century. They didn’t have windshields, doors, or turn signals. Safety features – they weren’t in existence.

Mass production is what brought the first inkling of what we have with our vehicles today. Slowly, cars became safer, more durable, with improved systems and functions to create a better driving experience.

Laws like the 1966 National Traffic and Motor Safety Act worked on improving driving conditions. It included traffic safety programs, driver education and licensing, inspections, highway design, and traffic law enforcement.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began testing and rating vehicles for collision protection in 1978. That made manufacturers work harder at creating vehicles that would protect passengers.

And it all starts at the assembly line, with the way today’s modern vehicles are put together. What used to be left to humans, which varied from person to person, is now a precise task as machines and robotics handle every detail.

Emphasis is placed on making every part better, stronger, lighter, and more efficient. To improve fuel economy, for example, required designers to come up with ways to make body parts more efficient. They had to be thinner, lighter, and made of better materials so they wouldn’t rust or corrode.

All of this is because regulations keep getting better. And that isn’t going to stop. We now demand it in every car we purchase, knowing it’ll give us years of service.

Engine efficiency

Old engines made a vehicle operate, but they weren’t very efficient. That’s changed as laws and regulations required it so.

Old carburetors would drip fuel into the engine, and because there wasn’t a lot of control, that extra fuel would wash away, corroding parts as a part of the process. Unburned fuel would dilute the oil, wear out rubber, and cause the engine to be anything but efficient.

Now, modern fuel and oil have been modernized to the current status where they are beneficial at helping vehicles thrive. You no longer have engines that die from corrosion and buildup. Fuel injection makes every system a precise course of action. It controls fluids in such a way that they go where needed, in the right amounts, at the right time. A cleaner combustion process means a better engine that lasts longer, and saves on fuel and oil in the process.

Motor oil from just a few decades ago was simple at best. But as mechanics and engineers learned more about the process, they refined the fluids used in today’s engines. Synthetic oils are designed to work no matter what the temperature is outside, from freezing cold to sweltering heat. This isn’t the motor oil your parents used.

Thanks to technology, you can go farther between servicing, and expect parts to last for tens of thousands of miles. Spark plugs, for example, now last 100,000 miles or more.

It’s no longer about guessing when you’re vehicle is in need of repair. Today’s vehicles will tell you what it needs, when it needs it.

Better electronics

Imagine a vehicle that can tell you what it needs. Gauges alert you when you’re running low on fuel. Lights warn you of potential problems. Voice commands give you diagnostics, and offer refinement to improve the driving experience.

Of course, this isn’t sci-fi; this is reality. All you have to do is sit in a new car and you’ll find technology a big part of how it operates.

With on-board computer sensors and monitors, every system, every piece is watched closely to ensure it’s operating the way it should. When something moves outside of the established limits, a sensor is alerted, and it warns you via a dashboard light. They are finely tuned to maximize part life, give you advanced warning to bring your car in for servicing, and lessen the likelihood of being stranded because of a part that no longer works.

Establishing a car maintenance program you can live by

If you choose to keep your vehicle for years, it’s important to service your car regularly to maintain each of the systems at optimal performance. The average car built today includes over 30,000 parts. Each of those parts are attached and combined to work together. If one part is bad, it has the ability to impact every other part in some manner.

A reputable auto mechanic isn’t just there to service your vehicle when you have problems with your car. They are also there to be a part of the team that keeps it operating correctly for as long as you own it.

If you’re looking for a partner to keep your car operating in great condition, stop by today and give us a try. From regular oil changes to overhauling complete systems, we can help your car stay safe and on the road for years to come.

Driving on Technology

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Driving on TechnologyThink of how much technology has changed vehicles in the last several years.  And there’s a lot more coming.

Many of you will remember when drivers were the ones who had complete control of several driving functions:  steering, braking and skid and accident prevention, just to name a few.  Thanks to driving technology, now computers and high-tech systems in the vehicle assist with many of these skills.  Anti-lock brakes help the driver stop while avoiding uncontrolled skids, traction control helps reduce slippage, and stability control can minimize the chances of losing control.

Backup cameras let drivers see what’s directly behind them which they never could see before.  Sensors warn drivers if a vehicle is crossing in front or behind them.  Even more sensors and fish-eye cameras alert drivers when they’re getting too close to something.  And those are just a few samples of the new driving technology advances.

The quest for self-driving vehicles has produced features that are already making their way into today’s cars, trucks, and SUV’s.  Electric and hybrid vehicles are introducing break-out driving technologies.  For example, a new braking technology allows the driver to let up on the accelerator, and instead of the car coasting for a while or the driver having to apply the brakes, the vehicle will slow down using regenerative braking without the driver even touching the brake pedal.  This regenerative braking system recharges the batteries.  Another system helps steer the car to keep it in the center of the lane using cameras and radar to keep track of the lane markers.

Most of these driving technologies aim at improving safety and efficiency, in much of the same way as all the other systems installed in the vehicle you currently own.  But whether you’re driving on new technology or not, it’s always important to keep them maintained so they’re working properly.  At Express Car Care we invest in training and diagnostic tools and equipment to keep your high-tech systems up to date as we all move forward to the vehicles of the future.

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel – What’s The Difference?

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Here in Colorado, we face a variety of driving experiences throughout the year.

Scorching hot days where the pavement seems to melt before your eyes? Check.

Frigid temperatures with ice and snow packed roads that make it difficult to drive? Check, we have those too.

All of that can make it difficult to decide which car to buy. Should you focus on purchasing an all-wheel, front-wheel, or rear-wheel design? What’s the difference? Is one suited better for Colorado driving?

What is front-wheel drive?

When it comes to selecting a family car to get you around the city, front-wheel drive vehicles remain a popular choice. One recent study showed that just over 40 percent of the vehicles on the road today have front-wheel drive. But what exactly does that mean?

With a front-wheel drivetrain, the power of the vehicle remains with the front two wheels. This setup gives the front wheels the responsibility of moving and steering the car where you desire it to go.

From a design perspective, this is a less complex model, therefore it is also the least expensive way of powering a car. Because the engine is already upfront, it’s easier to connect power to the front wheels via two shorter drive axles.

But cost and ease is only part of the reason front-wheel drive vehicles remain one of the most popular choices on the road. They are also one of the most fuel-efficient.

Back in 1975, the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) program was enacted. It was designed to improve fuel economy during the time of the Arab Oil Embargo. It sought standards to curtail fuel consumption as well as create jobs and cut global warming. As a part of that, automakers discovered that front-wheel drive vehicles was the quickest were to gain a few miles per gallon.

Having a more compact drivetrain, where the parts sit in front of the vehicle, reduces the weight. Less weight to move around on the road means a more fuel-efficient vehicle. It also works well here in Colorado because having the motor over the drivetrain also improves acceleration and traction. Whether roads are filled with water, ice, snow, sand, or gravel, a front-wheel drive vehicle will be easier to keep under control.

What is rear-wheel drive?

All-Wheel, Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel - What’s The Difference?Everything we discussed above that comes equipped with a front-wheel drive car is reversed with a rear-wheel model.

You’ll find a variety of vehicles equipped with rear-wheel drive. Rear-wheel drive is a transmission system designed for a more even weight distribution and optimal handling in normal driving conditions. When the sun is shining and you’re ready to take your car for a drive, you’ll enjoy the performance of a rear wheel drive system. Punch the accelerator from a standing start, the weight transfers to the rear, and gives you a smoother transition as you pick up speed. No fishtailing.

However, that performance doesn’t convert well when ice and snow build up. With more power in the rear wheels, it increases the possibility of fishtailing and losing control as your back wheels try to maneuver.

What is all-wheel drive?

All-wheel drive is a type of four-wheel drive system. It automatically shifts power between the front and rear wheels, depending on the kind of driving conditions. It’s designed for lighter winter driving and off-pavement use. If you truly want to go four-wheeling, you’re better off selecting a four-wheel drive vehicle. But for most driving conditions here across the front-range, all-wheel drive is a good choice.

The concept of all-wheel drive has changed considerably since its inception. The split between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive used to be more pronounced. To switch between the two, you would have to shift between them, selecting your driving preference. Thanks to technology, the difference is more automatic, with different types of vehicles moving seamlessly between the two, depending on the driving conditions. Vehicles like “crossovers” and others offer a wide variety of performance features. It’s easier to focus on the make and model, determining which is a good fit for your driving needs.

The role of the tires

While a vehicle’s drivetrain is important to how well your vehicle will perform in different situations, there’s another piece to the puzzle that can help make your car safer. The tires on your car are equally important to overall performance.

If you purchase a sporty vehicle, one that is designed for performance on dry roads, they are usually sold with summer tires designed with traction that can hug the open road. Dry conditions give you ease of handling, and can be quite fun to drive. However, the moment you add ice and snow to the mix, those tires won’t seem so impressive.

By adding snow tires to a front-wheel drive vehicle, you may see better performance than an all-wheel drive with summer tires. Again, the two pieces work in conjunction with each other to help you stay in control while you’re driving on the road.

Here in Colorado, we have both types of road conditions. And while all season tires can work well all year long, if you travel significant distances all year long and want the best performance possible in all conditions, combining snow tires with all-wheel drive is the way to go.

Problems with the drivetrain

No matter which type of vehicle you own, at some point in time, you may notice problems with the drivetrain.

  • Vibrations or intense shaking from under the vehicle
  • Difficulty making turns
  • A loud clunking noise when shifting occurs as you drive
  • A shuddering when stopping or starting
  • A squeaking noise at low speeds
  • A knocking noise as you drive

Any sound out of the ordinary is a reason for concern. If you notice something changes with the way your car drives, pay attention to where it’s coming from. This can help one of our mechanics pinpoint the problem.

Whether you have a front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive vehicle, the most important aspect of keeping them running well is to get them serviced regularly.

TSB, not USB

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You probably know that USB is a computer term (it stands for Universal Serial Bus).  But do you know what a TSB is?  If you don’t, you should, because it could be important for your vehicle.

A TSB is a Technical Service Bulletin.  When a new vehicle is introduced and starts being driven by thousands of real-world users, weaknesses in the parts or the design begin to be revealed.  So automakers send out TSBs, so that service technicians will be aware and know to look for those problems.  A TSB can be issued for things such as a loud noise when the vehicle turns or a minivan power door that won’t close properly.

A TSB is not the same as a recall.  If a vehicle has a defect that could result in people being hurt or illegal emissions, that vehicle is recalled.  The manufacturer must pay for a safety defect to be fixed, usually at a dealership.

When a Technical Service Bulletin is issued, it’s an acknowledgement that the vehicle manufacturer has noticed a pattern of something not working the way it should.  They also suggest the proper repair to address these known issues.  The cost for a TSB is usually only covered by the manufacturer if the vehicle is still under warranty.

If your vehicle is no longer covered by a warranty, but a TSB has been issued on a certain problem, any service facility can perform the service.  Ask your service adviser about TSBs that may have been issued for your vehicle.  Those TSBs can be helpful for the technician to diagnose any problem you are experiencing.  The TSB will also guide the technician on the best repair procedure to get your vehicle working the way it should.  We’re committed to maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel economy.  Trust your vehicle to Express Car Care of Denver.

Pre-Owned Vehicles – Vehicle Inspection Items Before You Buy

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You buy a car in one of two ways.

With a new car, you rely on the manufacturer to produce a high quality car. You also have a warranty in place to protect you for a certain amount of years or mileage, whichever comes first.

But when you buy a pre-owned vehicle, things operate a bit differently. Yes, you can buy from a certified auto dealer, and in some cases, walk away with a warranty. Yet many people opt to buy in a different way. They hit Craigslist to find the perfect car. Or notice a for sale sign in the window of a car sitting in their local neighborhood.

They call. They drive it a few miles. They hand over a check, and the transaction is complete.

That’s also where the heartache can come in.

A drive around the block, and a quick look under the hood won’t tell you what you really need to know. It won’t tell you if there is an underlying problem that will surface a short distance after you take title of the car.

The only way to do that is to schedule a pre-owned vehicle inspection with one of our mechanics. This will allow a professional to run a full diagnostic on it, note where potential problem spots are, and alert you to where repair and replacement potential is around the vehicle.

Why car buyers don’t request a full inspection

When you purchase a new vehicle from a dealer, you assume the car is in the best shape possible. And if it isn’t, you have recourse in the way of a warranty.

When you purchase a used car from an independent third party, you are relying on their honesty as to the condition of the vehicle.

Pre-Owned Vehicles - Vehicle Inspection Items Before You BuyIt’s personal to them. They want the car gone. They may stretch the truth, mask potential problem areas, and sell you on the good features of the car, ignoring what they know to be problem areas.

As a buyer, you might not know that used car inspections are not only possible, but are also readily available to you.

Yes, a pre-owned vehicle inspection will cost you money. But won’t that be money well spent if it alerts you to a potential problem that could cost you thousands of dollars, and days – weeks – without your vehicle while it gets repaired? By getting an inspection before you by, you’ll know exactly what to expect in the months ahead, knowing right where your trouble spots are on your new-to-you vehicle.

People also assume getting a pre-owned vehicle inspection is a hassle. Will a third-party even allow you to get an inspection before you hand over the money. The better question might be: what are they trying to hide if they won’t let you get an inspection? If an individual knows their car is in great shape, they will be more than happy to allow a mechanic to give you a second opinion.

The easiest way to do that is to have a trusted mechanic ready and willing to do the inspection when you’re ready. It’s a simple request when you find the car you’re looking for. We’re more than happy to help you out – just let us know what you’re looking for, and give us a call when you find a potential vehicle to purchase. We’ll get the car in and out as quickly as possible, getting both you and the seller back on the road again in no time.

What a mechanic looks for when performing a pre-owned vehicle inspection

You can find pre-owned vehicle inspections at many different dealers and repair shops. Automotive repair shops across the country offer different levels of service.

However, it is wise to build up a rapport with a mechanic before you ask for a pre-owned vehicle inspection. To ensure that you are receiving your money’s worth, a good inspection should:

  • Verify that all equipment is functioning correctly on the car
  • Confirm the overall condition of the car, including wear on tires, brake pads, and other components of the major systems
  • Discover hidden problems that might impact your drive in the future, such as rust on the body, frame, or engine
  • Run a diagnostic test to raven any mechanical or electrical problems

If a mechanic is doing his job during a pre-owned vehicle inspection, they will find things like:

  • Poor maintenance – a good sign of this would be to discover low oil or other easy maintenance items that should be handled regularly
  • Low quality repair work – some people take their vehicles to reputable service stations that use high quality parts. Others look for DIY options, where they look for cost savings in every area. By looking at repair work and other modifications, you can tell if the previous owner cut corners by choosing the cheapest product lines on the market.
  • Frame damage – if there is any sign of damage to the frame of the car, it might indicate the vehicle was in an accident and wasn’t repaired correctly. That can impact all other systems on the vehicle, such as pulling to one side and causing premature wear to the tires or brakes.
  • Vehicle history reports – while you can pull some history reports online based on VIN numbers, trained mechanics are also good at spotting discrepancies in what owers may say and what the vehicle is telling them. They are trained to spot telltale signs of damage, especially if someone is attempting to cover it up.
  • Other – there are many other things that a good mechanic can pick up on based on what they see in a standard inspection. They can find hidden rust, fluid leaks, nonfunctioning accessories, overdue maintenance items, or odors or noises that might not be noticeable to you in a few minutes of test driving.

A pre-owned vehicle inspection is used-car-buying insurance

While no inspection can guarantee you won’t have trouble with your new-to-you vehicle in a short time period, it can help you avoid serious problems that are obvious to a trained eye. A good mechanic can flush out any potential problems that are sitting and waiting to happen to you. It gives you a good, reliable assessment of the overall condition of the car.

If you’re thinking of buying a pre-owned vehicle, allow us to be one of your first stops. We’ll ensure your car is running efficiently and will be a great purchase for you and your family.

Get Ready For Summer: Truck Maintenance Tips For Towing Your Gear

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All across America, the great road trip is on. Albeit differently than any summer before.

Because very few of us relish the thought of hopping on a plane in the coming weeks, more are pulling out their maps and planning an old-fashioned kind of vacation. Why not see what America has to offer? Pack your bags, hook your camper up to your truck, and let’s go!

Of course, pulling your campers, boats, water toys and more takes a lot of work. Is your truck up for the job? Here are a few truck maintenance tips to ensure your vehicle is up to the task.

Towing capacity

Have you decided this is your year to invest in new camping gear? Did you pick up a boat at a bargain price on Craigslist? Or maybe your dream of owning watercraft has finally come true. Surely your current truck can do the job, right?

Maybe not.

Don’t assume your truck has the proper towing capacity for the job. Check your owner’s manual instead. It will tell you how much pulling capacity you have without damaging your vehicle or impacting the ability to handle the load safely as you travel up and down hills and around tight corners. Too much weight on your tow could damage wheel bearings, brakes, transmission, axles, or even your engine.

Towing equipment

Get Ready For Summer: Truck Maintenance Tips For Towing Your GearIf you’re new to towing, be sure to invest in the right towing equipment for the job. In most towing situations, you’ll need four pieces of equipment:

Hitch

Hitch receiver

Drawbar

Hitch ball

If you have the right equipment, you’ll safely tow your equipment behind you wherever the road takes you. If you don’t, you could be staring at crushed campers and watercraft at the bottom of a ravine.

Every setup is created for a specific weight and size class. The mini camper you towed last summer isn’t necessarily the same as the boat you recently purchased. Check with your owner’s manual for classification, as well as read up on the new equipment you’ve purchased.

Trailer details

When you’re towing various toys for camping and having fun on the water, it’s no longer just about your truck. You have a trailer to think about too. That means in addition to caring for your truck before you head out on the road, you’ll have to have your trailer checked out too. Make sure you have:

  • Trailer lights – ensure the electrical wiring is properly attached to ensure taillights and brake lights are in good working condition.
  • Secure load – whether it’s simply pulling a mini trailer, or if you have a variety of toys spread out in the back of your truck, ensure it’s all properly covered or tied down. You don’t want to reach your final destination, only to discover you’ve lost half your load along the way.
  • Check your tires – while trailers and other towable equipment may not have a lot of running internal parts, you will be dependent on the wheels and tires to get you where you’re going. Sometimes you off-road it, being more vulnerable to things that can flatten or blow a tire. Are they in good shape before you leave?

Safe truck checkup

When you’re about to head out on vacation, it’s a good idea to give your truck a thorough checkup before you leave home. When you drop off your truck for an inspection, mention your vacation plans and what you’ll be towing. That will give our mechanics a better idea of what to look for, and make recommendations based on your plans.

While these aren’t the only things you should check, it’s a starting point.

Brakes – not only will you be using your brakes to stop your truck, but you’ll also be adding weight behind you in what you’re towing. Having brakes that are even slightly worn could be a hazard to your safety.

While it might be a natural tendency to ride the brakes with the added weight behind you, especially as you navigate turns and hills, this can only increase the chance of overheating them. Instead, choose to drive at a slower speed. Some trailers come with their own braking system. While this takes practice to be able to coordinate the two tougher, it can reduce the likelihood of putting too much pressure on your own braking system.

Cooling – no matter where you’re driving to this summer, chances are you’ll be using your air conditioner to help you stay cool. This intensifies the possibility of your truck breaking down. That extra load puts more stress on your vehicle, so ensure all of your cooling system parts are working well before you head out. That includes the radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and other systems attached to your vehicle.

Suspension – check both your truck’s suspension system and whatever you’re towing as well. For driving around town, your truck may have lighter duty shocks that can present problems when you start to pull a heavy load. A heavier duty shock absorber will help keep your vehicle stable while towing. Plus it will make your ride smoother too.

Fluids – not only will you be pulling a heavier load wherever you go, but you’ll also be doing it on potentially some of the hottest days of the year. It’s time to check all of the fluid levels throughout your vehicle to ensure you’re topped up and ready to go.

Start with motor oil. This isn’t a time to skimp and look for bargains. Instead, trust brand name synthetic motor oil and transmission fluid to give your engine added protection throughout the summer and beyond. Replace oil filters to improve performance. Top up things like windshield washer fluid – those roads can become muddy and dirty from brief rainstorms and more.

It’s summer – get out there and have fun!

Before heading out on your summer adventure, spend a little time preparing your truck for the process.

It’s been a stressful year. No matter if you’re heading off the beaten path, or will be following others into some of the most well-loved monuments in this country, following a few truck maintenance tips before you head out will ensure you arrive safely, and that you don’t spend more time on the side of the road then you do having fun at your final destination.

Book your appointment today. We’ll ensure your truck is in perfect condition before your vacation begins.

What Your Parking Brake Is For

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There are a lot of parts to a car that we tend to take for granted. They’re there. We may use them from time to time. But we rarely think much about them.

That defines the parking brake perfectly.

The parking brake is designed for what its name suggests: to add extra security to your vehicle when it’s stopped, resting, and you’re away from the car. Of course, that’s not it’s only function. Which is why it is sometimes referred to as an emergency brake, e-brake, or hand brake too.

When you think parking brake, think safety. That’s what it’s designed for. But what is its true function?

Let’s start at the beginning.

How does a parking brake work?

A parking brake is a part of a car’s braking system. It connects to the rear brakes, and when engaged, engages the vehicle’s primary braking system with less force.

Looking back at history, the parking brake was an important part of the braking system. It was designed to give a driver another option to stop the car if, by chance, the hydraulic brakes fail while driving.

What Your Parking Brake Is ForOn modern cars, however, the parking brake is rarely needed in that circumstance. That could be why the name has morphed over time from the emergency brake to the parking brake.

While your primary brakes operate through a technology-driven hydraulic system that gradually brings your car to a stop, the parking brake is designed to hold your car in place.

Today, we use the parking brake as an extra precaution for keeping our vehicles motionless while parked. This can be a big benefit when parked on steep inclines or declines.

As our vehicles get more sophisticated, the way systems operate is changing too. In general, there are four different types of parking brake systems. You can check your owner’s manual to confirm what comes equipped on your vehicle.

  • Stick lever – on older cars, you’ll find this located on the instrument panel
  • Center console lever – this is located between the two front seats
  • Foot pedal – this is located on the floor on the left side of the pedals
  • Push button – with newer cars, you’ll find the parking brake can be activated by a button located somewhere on the console

When should you use your parking brake?

As the name implies, a parking brake should be used whenever you park your car. Whether you drive with manual or automatic transmission, the parking brake adds extra security when you walk away from your car.

While some will tell you that parking brakes are more important when you park on an incline or decline, others will tell you it’s equally important to use it no matter where you place your vehicle. Your braking system uses a device that keeps your brakes locked and engaged whenever you put your car into park and walk away. However, failure can occur, and it’s not just the brakes that can cause the problem. If the gears aren’t engaged, it can cause your car to roll, even on what appears to be a flat surface. Engaging it each and every time you turn off your car ensures your car stays where you place it.

Here’s a tip for reducing the stress on the drive train. If you are parking on an incline or decline, leave your foot on the brake pedal as you move the gears to park position. Before you take your foot off the brake pedal, engage the parking brake too.

Have you ever let your foot off before engaging the parking brake? Have you felt your car jolt forward or backward as it adjusts to sitting on an incline? That action over time can damage both your transmission and braking systems. That means costly repairs before their time. Engaging the parking brake first prevents this action from occurring, protecting various systems throughout your vehicle.

When you’re ready to drive, start your engine, press down on the brake pedal to engage the brake system, release the parking brake, and then move into drive. Driving with your parking brake on can damage your vehicle.

Why is a parking brake important?

Get into the habit of using your parking brake every time you stop. It gives you added stability while your vehicle is inactive. While this can be important to keep your vehicle stable while resting on an incline, there are other circumstances where this is important too.

For example, if you’re sitting on a busy street or in a parking lot, and someone hits your vehicle, the parking brake decreases the chance of it rolling, increasing the likelihood of damage.

It also keeps your car in overall good working condition. If you don’t use parts, they start to wear. A parking brake that is rarely used can stiffen, rust, corrode, weaken, and wear down, meaning it’s less likely to work when you need it most.

Like every part of your car, it’s important to have the parking brake regularly inspected to ensure it’s in proper working condition.

Potential problems with your parking brake

While parking brakes rarely present problems, you may likely find yourself in one of these situations:

Parking brake frozen – ice can cause the parking brake to freeze when it’s really cold. Leaving the engine run for a few moments can start to heat your car and make the ice melt. If this doesn’t melt it, you can find which wheel it’s connected to, and melt the ice with a hairdryer.

Rust or corrosion – over time, corrosion or rust can infiltrate the mechanism inside the parking brake, making it harder to work until it freezes altogether. It might be difficult to diagnose without having it towed in. You can apply and release the brakes a few times to see if you can disengage it. Shift between reverse and drive to see if it loosens up the debris enough to take the parking brake off. If not, your only choice is to have it towed and repaired.

Engaged too hard – when people are in a hurry, they often make quick movements that can hurt more than help. That’s often the case with the parking brake. If you pull up too hard, it can jam it. Pulling with all your strength can get the brake shoe stuck in the wheel drum. It can stretch out the cable that runs from the wheel to the brake handle enough that makes it impossible to disengage. If you’ve tried and can’t release the parking brake, it may be time to seek help.

Whether you have a question about a specific problem, or just need an inspection and check up to keep you on the road safely, we can help.

How can we help you today? 

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