Month: March 2015

Extensive damage occurs in an engine that runs in an overheated state for a prolonged period of time. This is the reason almost all vehicles are equipped with a heat gauge or with a sensor that warns the driver if the engine heat is too high. When an engine overheats, the vehicle needs to be…

What Does Drivability Mean? Drivability is a term that is bandied about in the automotive service and repair business, but what does it really mean? The term drivability is really a two-word term rooted in the words “drive” and “able.” Reverse these words for a clearer understanding—able to drive. Think of it as drive-able. A…

There are lots of things to consider when researching a car’s past. Most people want to know if the car was involved in any accidents or sustained some type of damage, perhaps from hail, theft or vandalism. Also high on the list is knowing how well previous owners took care of it, getting the oil…

Tips to help your new vehicle adapt to daily driving. Smell that? Yep, that’s the new car smell. Ahead of you and your fresh set of wheels lie new roads to explore, new features to play with (hello, iPod jack) and fewer visits to the mechanic. But as much as you want to zoom around…

Most would agree that brakes are the most important feature of your car—but do you know how to detect when there’s a problem with your brakes, or how to do a maintenance check on your brake system? Below are the standard warning signs that something might be wrong with your brakes. If you’re noticing any…

Many of the symptoms associated with a brake problem are the result of brake fluid issues (see this link for a list of brake problem symptoms). Fortunately, checking your brake fluid level is a relatively easy process—just follow the steps below and have your car manual handy. Open the hood of your car and find…

Your vehicle’s battery is not very demanding, and most often only thought about when it fails. But just a small amount of care and maintainence will help insure it doesn’t let you down when you need it most. Lack of battery care and maintenance combined with cold weather has a way of bringing out the…

As drivers, we know it’s important to maintain our vehicles. But between work, the kids, and the dozens of other things we’d rather be doing, basic car maintenance can often fall to the wayside. But did you know that taking care of your vehicle not only helps it perform better, it also could mean money…

Performing basic car maintenance tasks can keep your car running more efficiently, saving you money, extending the life of your car and keeping you safe. Some of these tasks and checks should be done at regular scheduled times, whereas others should be done when your car reaches a certain mileage. You may want to consult…

Auto maintenance is a year-round concern, but extra caution is required in those parts of the country where winter brings freezing temperatures, heavy snows and hazardous driving conditions. Here are 10 vehicle maintenance issues that are more common in cold weather – and some helpful tips. 1. Tire Traction One of the worst feelings you…