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Wheels and tires
Discount tires
Car tires
RV tires
Rims and tires
Truck tires
ATV tires
Custom wheels
Trailer tires
Tire alignment
Car brakes
Disc brakes
Auto brakes
ABS brakes
Antilock brakes
Auto A/C service
Auto A/C repair
Auto A/C recharge
Transmission service
Transmission flush
Transmission repair
Power transmission
Manual transmission
Automotive alignment
Automatic transmission
Wheel alignment
Front-end alignment
Auto alignment
4 wheel alignment
Automotive diagnostics
Smog testing
Smog check
Smog certification
Smog inspection
Transmission problems |
When do I need an oil change?
There are many ideas about this routine
maintenance. The truth is that many factors go into the
necessity of an oil change. When you take a lot of short
trips (under 5 miles) or drive in stop and go traffic (which
does not allow the engine to fully warm up), your oil gets
dirty faster. The dirt level can also increase when driving
on dusty and dirty roads. It is always better to err on the
side of caution and plan your oil changes between 3,500 to
4,000 miles. And remember to have your oil filter changed
each time as well.
When does my vehicle need a
tune-up? A tune-up
is preventive maintenance and involves checking your
vehicles performance and changing spark plugs, PCV valve,
air and fuel filters. Many other items are added to this
list on a “need” basis. Most of your newer vehicles don’t
require a tune-up for 100,000 miles. But cars built in the
early 80’s up until the late 90’s should get a tune-up every
30,000 miles.
Are there other things
besides oil changes that need to be done regularly?
The answer is yes. Your car has many
different fluids under the hood, not just the oil. It is
important to have these fluids checked. Low fluid levels can
affect your safety. When you have your car in for an oil
change, ask the repair shop to check all fluids. Many
companies make this a standard practice. Things like dirty
or low power steering fluid and low brake fluid is not just
dangerous but can damage your cars internal parts. You
should also have your cars belts and hoses checked for wear,
cracks, and breaks. Drivers should also pay attention to the
condition of their car's battery, air filter and vehicles
lighting (such as brake lights, tail lights, headlights and
turn signals).
What is an automotive
safety inspection?
A safety inspection is just that, an over-all check on the
proper functioning of your auto. So much goes into your car
in order for you to take a drive, and many things can go
wrong without you even knowing. With a safety inspection you
can catch many of these problems before they turn serious,
or cause an accident. Since many drivers today can’t check
their own brake systems or automotive electrical panels it
is important to have a professional make sure they are in
running order. Safety inspections vary from shop to shop,
and can range from a visual overhaul to an intense
computerized read out.
How will I know
that my tires need rotation or alignment?
It is safe to say a good rotation is
appropriate every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or every other oil
change. Sometimes irregular wear on your tires tread can be
corrected by a tire rotation. Misalignment can really wear
out your tires. Having your vehicles alignment checked
periodically is a good practice. If you notice any vibration
or pulling to the side, bring it into a tire dealer right
away. Try to avoid pot holes and hitting curbs, this can
cause a misalignment.
What should the air pressure
in my tires be? The
best way for you to find the “proper pressure” for your tire
is to look in your vehicles owners’ manual. It can also be
found on the sticker inside the door edge, fuel box or glove
box. Remember that air pressure can fluctuate 1 to 2 pounds
up or down for every 10 degrees of temperature change. Low
air pressure results in bad gas mileage.
What other types of things do I
need to know about my tires?
Believe it or not tires are the most
overlooked safety feature on a vehicle. It isn’t until a
driver has a problem with their tires that they realize they
could have done things to prevent it. Here are a couple more
things to keep in mind: 1. A tire needs to be replaced when
the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch in order to
prevent skidding and hydroplaning. 2. Under inflation of
your tires can lead to tire stress, irregular wear, loss of
control, and accidents, not to mention bad gas mileage.
Spend a few minutes each month to look over your tires.
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