American Automobile Association Benefits

As soon as automobiles hit America’s roads, people began to organize automotive clubs.  By 1902, there were approximately 23,000 cars in operation.  Even with this small number, over 50 motor clubs had been formed across the country.  Nine of those clubs joined together to create a national motoring organization called the American Automobile Association, or the AAA.  Over the past 100 years, the AAA has supported American drivers by promoting safe, efficient highways and a multi-modal transportation system that is accessible and affordable to everyone.

Improving Roads

At the turn of the century, existing roads had been designed for the horse and buggy. Traveling on those dirt paths was often risky.  AAA’s earliest goal was to lead a fight for improvements in the nation’s roads.  They wanted roads that could better accommodate automobile traffic.  By 1916, AAA saw their goal begin to be realized when the idea of federal aid to highways was initiated.  Since then, this organization’s affiliated clubs have covered a wide range of issues and interests.  One campaign is focused on getting the government to spend more of existing funds to improve on the nation’s highways, bridges, and air traffic control systems.  Another initiative was designed to provide consumers with information and insight into current transportation issues.

Roadside Assistance

Auto breakdowns are not fun for any car owner.  AAA was the first to provide a service for stranded motorists.  This aspect is one of the most valued features of a AAA membership.  They have almost 13,000 roadside assistance contract facilities and take in about 29 million calls annually.  AAA Members can get roadside assistance by calling an 800 number, visiting AAA’s website, or by using their smart phone app.  Their call centers handle incoming calls, answer questions about travel related subjects, and advise on AAA approved auto repair facilities.  This association annually publishes a manual on correct towing procedures and updates vehicle-buying research online.  To help make sure it’s members find reliable and quality mechanics, AAA developed its Approved Auto Repair program.  They have identified 8,000 automotive repair facilities that meet their criteria in customer satisfaction, equipment requirements, and competency for repairing automobiles.  

Travel and Safety

AAA has supplied its members with all available data on roads, hotels, service facilities, and motor vehicle laws for over 100 years.  They produced the first auto-oriented maps, road logs, and eventually a series of tour book guides and camping directories.  AAA clubs were the first to inspect and recommend lodging and restaurants.  They also became linked with a network in which information on highway conditions could be exchanged up to the minute.  As early as 1927, they even developed a foreign travel department to handle steamship tickets and shipment of cars overseas.  Gradually AAA initiated additional services and is now one of the largest travel organizations in the world.  They offer complete domestic and foreign travel services, including issuing International Driving Permits.  Increasing numbers of cars on the road have led to a similar increase in accidents.  AAA has done many things to help make our roads safer.  They sponsored school safety patrol programs and introduced traffic safety education into elementary and junior high schools.  AAA wrote the first driver education book widely used in high schools.  AAA also understands the dangers of driving under the influence.  They have a program that educates communities on alcohol and its effect on a person’s driving ability.  

The Alternator and Your Car

Your car’s electrical charging system is generally made up of three major components: the battery, voltage regulator, and alternator. The battery and alternator work together to generate power for the electrical components of a vehicle.  Alternators are generally found near the front of the engine.  They are driven by the crankshaft which converts the up and down motion of the pistons into a circular movement.  When this movement turns the components of the alternator it produces AC power through electromagnetism.  

History of Your Alternator

An alternator gets its name from the term alternating current (AC).  Thomas Edison is known for inventing the first light bulb and many other electrical mechanisms.  It was actually Nikola Tesla that developed the first AC induction motor in the late 1800s.  While Edison was out to promote direct current or DC power, it was Tesla who proved that AC power was superior.  AC power can produce higher voltage much more efficiently and that is very helpful to run a car’s electrical system.

Alternator Components

Alternators are usually small and lightweight.  Most alternators found in passenger cars and small trucks are constructed using an aluminum outer housing since lightweight metal does not magnetize.  Aluminum also dissipates the tremendous heat generated by producing the electrical power.  If you look closely at an alternator, you will also see vents on the front and back also for relieving heat.  A pulley is attached to the rotor shaft on the front of the alternator.  When the engine is running, the crankshaft turns the drive belt, which spins the pulley to turn the rotor shaft.  The alternator transfers this mechanical energy from the engine into electrical power for the car.  

Lifespan of the Alternator and Replacement

If your alternator is not functioning, the electrical components of your vehicle will quickly drain your battery.  Since today’s automobiles cannot properly function without the electrical system, this can be a big problem.  Alternators have moving parts, get dirty, and are subject to stress from the drastic temperature changes.  All of these causes can make the internal parts gradually wear out.  The most common is bearing failure.  The needle bearings allow the rotor to spin freely to produce electricity.  When these fail, the alternator will not work efficiently and can completely seize up.  This failure will normally cause a loud grinding noise.  If you suspect this problem, quickly consult one of our mechanics to prevent a breakdown.  Older vehicles with generators tend to require much more maintenance than newer models, but there's no standard rule for how long an alternator will last.  Generally, alternators are less expensive to replace than many other parts of the car.  Some people still may search for an alternative to purchasing a new replacement alternator.  Some new alternators can be around $230 but if you are willing to use a remanufactured one, it might only cost $160.  Many times remanufactured alternators are easy to access and simple to replace.  More often today, cars are running out of room under the hood.  This has caused some manufactures to place the alternator in a less accessible spot.  If this is the case, you may want to let an experienced mechanic do the job.  They can save you a headache and get the job done much quicker than most people.

Which Headlights are Best for Me?

Headlights are lamps that are installed in the front of the car to help you see in the dark while driving. They are so important that you can receive a citation or have to pay a fine if you are pulled over for nonworking headlights or for forgetting to turn them on when you get in your car. The technology has progressed from a simple light kit enclosed behind a covering to the more energy-efficient advanced models of recent years that are being installed in cars. Some car manufacturers have created headlights that will automatically illuminate when the car is put into gear, such as daytime running lights. With all of the advances made, it may be daunting to determine which ones you should use for driving during the winter months. If you are thinking about replacing your headlights, you should know some things about them first.

Types of Headlights Available

There are several types of headlights that are available on the market today. The most basic light is the incandescent lights. These lights are similar to the average household light bulb except they are bigger and will not fit in a household socket. Inside the bulb is a tungsten filament that is heated to produce light. Halogen lights are filled with halogen gas that caused the tungsten from the filament to redeposit. This makes the filament last longer. Xenon lights are similar to halogen bulbs except that they are filled with xenon gas rather than halogen. Xenon burns brighter than halogen and it is less taxing on the car battery. Many newer model cars include either xenon or halogen headlights as standard equipment. Fog lights are smaller and they focus the light beam so that it does not reflect off the fog, snow, or rain, making driving in those conditions a bit safer. Some cars have these as standard equipment as well. Pencil beams are lights that have the longest visibility range, but they burn so brightly that they are illegal in some jurisdictions. Pencil beams are usually reserved for off-road driving. 

Replace or Repair?

If you have older or incandescent light bulbs, you may be thinking about replacing them. In the interest of safety and saving money, replacement may be a good choice. If you already have xenon or halogen bulbs but you noticed that they do not burn as brightly, then you may need to clean or replace the covers. Cleaning headlight covers can be difficult and there are several cleaning kits available on the market; however, this is a job that is best performed by your mechanic. The mechanic would have special cleansers that are specifically formulated to remove the road salt, grime, and dirt that accumulates on the surfaces. If they cannot be cleaned, then they may need to be replaced. The mechanic can replace them for you since removing, reinstalling the cover can be difficult, and replacing the bulb inside can be just as difficult. 

Which One to Choose?

Before you decide if you should replace or repair your headlights, you need to know which type of headlights you already have installed. You can consult your owner’s manual for this information. The make, model, and year of your car will guide you toward the kind of headlights you can use for replacement. For the best advice, you should always talk with a qualified mechanic to help you choose and they can install them for you. 

The Pros and Cons of the European Car Model

The European car model is highly regarded in the automotive industry, with its selection of luxury sedans, sports utility vehicles, and sports cars. Many people who reside in areas that experience severe winters have reported that they have had good experiences with their cars and some drivers are completely loyal to their European cars. These cars have many benefits and drawbacks to them. You should research them thoroughly to be sure that you choose the right car for you. 

The Pros are Always Good

One thing that European car owners boast about is the reliability and dependability. These cars tend to be mechanically sound and with the proper general car maintenance, you will get years of operation out of them. Owners often report that they also get good fuel efficiency from these cars and they require very little customization right off the showroom floor. They usually come with a plethora of desirable standard equipment that includes navigation, self-inflating tires, internet connectivity, and other features that would be considered options on other cars. These cars consistently receive high safety ratings and come equipped with air bags, antilock brakes, and a roll bar. The designs tend to be classy and conservative, which makes them good choices for business and professional people. Although these cars are expensive, the price gives these cars a certain prestige; therefore, European car models are often called a status symbol. 

The Cons are Always Bad

Since these cars are foreign imports, they will be more expensive than domestic cars. This is because imports are saddled with tariffs and other taxes that raise the price. These taxes were meant to steer buyers toward domestic models. It is also harder to find parts for these cars if you need any repairs. Auto repair for these cars can reach exorbitant prices because they sometimes need to be ordered from the manufacturer, which usually means that you will not be able to sit and wait while your car is being repaired. These cars are also often the targets of auto thefts and auto insurance for them is pricier than for a domestic car. Unfortunately, some mechanics will take advantage of the fact that the car is an import and attach a premium to the services that they perform on it.

How to Decide

The first things you should consider are your lifestyle and your finances. Does your wallet allow you to own an import or are you just interested in owning a status symbol? Can you afford the insurance, gas, maintenance, and any repairs that may need to be performed? If you have a large family or you have a job that requires you to transport large items, then you may need to consider another car since most imports are not as roomy inside as the domestic ones. When you purchase a European car model, you should make sure that you establish and stick to a general car maintenance schedule and be sure to schedule a vehicle safety inspection regularly. These measures will help you keep your car on the road longer. 

WHAT WOULD MAKE MY VEHICLE’S WHEELS COME OUT OF ALIGNMENT?

Hitting a large rut or pot hole in the roadway with one wheel is the typical reason that a vehicle will come out of alignment. When this happens, the careful calibration and measurement that are needed to keep your vehicle aligned may be altered resulting in steering difficulties.  

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FRONT-END ALIGNMENT AND FOUR-WHEEL ALIGNMENT?

An alignment on most vehicles involves only the front end of the vehicle.  However, it is possible to also have rear wheel adjustments.  This would be referred to as a four-wheel alignment rather than the usual front-end alignment.  Most often, the only adjustment that will be made is to the toe setting.  However, it is possible for caster and camber adjustments to be made.  However, this is usually a more difficult service to perform and is less likely to be needed. With modern diagnostic equipment, it is possible to get very precise measurements for a front-end alignment.  The actual work, however, is still only as good as the person using the equipment, interpreting what the data says, and then applying that information to your vehicle. A front-end alignment will be done routinely every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.  But, if you suspect an issue, do not wait for the regularly scheduled maintenance. Likewise if you hit a particularly large pot hole or bumped a curb much harder than normal, an early check would be in order. 

WHAT WILL I OBSERVE IF MY VEHICLE ALIGNMENT NEEDS TO BE CHECKED?

Pulling to one side or the other is the telltale sign that your vehicle needs to be aligned.  You might notice this when on a flat stretch of highway if you release some of your grip on the wheel.  It might be so obvious that you actually feel like you are “fighting” to keep the steering wheel where you want it to be.  In this case, you may have to physically steer away from the pull to keep the vehicle moving straight in your lane.    Over time, driving a vehicle out of alignment will result in irregular tire wear. This could manifest as one tire wearing more than another or as uneven wear across the tread of one tire. If you have had to have any adjustments done to your suspension system or if you have installed new suspension parts such as shocks or springs, it is advisable to also have our technicians check your alignment at that time. 

IS WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND TIRE BALANCING THE SAME THING? 

Tire balancing and wheel alignment are not the same thing even though they may be related.  Tire balancing will always be done when you purchase new tires, but a wheel alignment is not necessarily needed at that time. Our mechanics may often recommend an alignment check within 3,000 miles of purchasing new tires. Tire balancing will often manifest as vibrations, which is different than the common signs of a misalignment. Occasionally a piece of dried mud, ice, or a rock will become lodged in or around a wheel. This can cause steering or driving difficulties.   Our mechanics will often spot this during an inspection and remove it first to see if removing the obstruction will eliminate the driving issue you have experienced. 

What are Tune-ups and When are They Needed?

The tune-up has been a very important component of regular car maintenance for a good reason. This procedure is vital to making sure that you have sufficient power to your engine. During the winter, you should make sure that your car is in its best running condition to avoid being stranded in inclement weather. It can be done in conjunction with other services such as oil changes, tire rotation, tire pressure checks, and fluid checks. If you are unsure about the process, you should make sure that you gain some basic knowledge and have a discussion with your mechanic so that you can make the best choices when it comes to your car. 

What is a Tune-up?

Once used to describe the process of making adjustments to improve performance, the term “tune-up” has been coined to describe the process of changing the spark plugs, spark plug wires, and air filter. This process is usually included when performing winter safety inspections and in general maintenance. Technology has increased capacity and durability of spark plugs so that a tune-up may only be required every 100,000 miles or two years. It should be done regularly so that performance and fuel economy do not suffer. Your mechanic can give you a complete explanation of the procedure and can show you what each part looks like and what significance it has to the total performance of your car. 

Why Are They Needed?

You will know when you need a tune-up when you notice a decrease in performance from the engine. You will experience a loss in power, especially during acceleration. An engine needing a tune-up will use more gas because the engine is working harder to keep the sparks firing. As a result, your gas mileage will decrease. This extra work done by the engine will mean that the engine needs more gas to keep the car running. The engine will also run roughly and knock when accelerating. This knocking will continue even after the engine has been shut off. If the spark plugs are damaged or worn enough, they can cause your car to stall and shut off when you idle at a stop light or train crossing. This occurs because the engine is using more gas, but the spark plugs are not able to keep the firing process going in order to produce the tiny explosions that are needed to power the car.

When Are They Needed?

Before the extensive use of computers in cars, it was recommended that a tune-up should be performed regularly in specific time intervals. However, the computer system in newer cars monitors the condition of the spark plugs, filters, and sensors. If the computer detects a problem, the alert system will notify you. You can now go for a very long time between tune-ups due to the advanced spark plugs and computer systems. The length of time between tune-ups would also depend upon the make and model of the car, your driving habits, and weather conditions. Your ASE master technicians can check your spark plugs, wires, and filters during your winter safety inspection. This inspection can include general car maintenance tasks such as oil changes, brake inspections, and windshield wiper replacement; and it can include bumper-to-bumper inspections that will cover every system on your car for maximum security while driving during the winter months. 

Improving Fuel Efficiency from Your Car

If you live in a state that experience cold, snowy winters, you may have noticed that the gas
stations switch to a specially blended fuel mixture every winter for driving in the cold
weather. The sluggish economy has caused many people to reevaluate their driving patterns
and to search for ways to improve fuel efficiency. After you have slashed the excessive
usage of fuel in your home, you now turn to your car and wonder what you can do in the
winter that will help you save some money this season. If you alter your driving habits,
maintain your car, and make other minor changes to your routine, you will see instant
savings in your fuel costs.

Driving Habits Needs to Change

If you alter your driving habits, you may find that you use a lot less gas. Cut out all of the
extraneous trips to places that you can easily get to on foot. If you must drive your car
everywhere, drive at slower speeds. The snowy and icy road conditions will slow you down
automatically, but slower speeds on dry pavement will ensure that you use less gas. Use the
freeway as much as possible to boost your gas mileage. You will burn less gas because you
will not have to stop and start repeatedly. The freeway offers you passages to your
destinations that are free from stop signs, stoplights, and railroad crossings. Late model cars
are able to operate without warming up. You should make an effort to limit the amount of
time you spend idling.

General Car Maintenance Needs to Happen

You can save a lot of money on not only fuel costs but also car repair costs just by
maintaining your car. Make sure that you adhere to a regular general car maintenance
schedule that is recommended by the car manufacturer. Regular maintenance should include
a tire inspection, oil change, and fluid checks. A tire inspection will make sure that your
tires are inflated at the proper air pressure level. If you do not know what pressure you
should be using, you can find it on a sticker that is posted on the doorjam of the driver’s
side door or in the owner’s manual. When you perform your oil changes, you should make
sure that you are using the correct grade of engine oil. Your owner’s manual should list the
grade and weight of oil you should be using. Remember to change the oil and air filters
when you change your oil. Dirty filters will keep air from freely flowing through the engine
and cause you to burn more fuel. A tune-up will improve your car’s fuel economy and
should be regularly performed.

Other Things That Needs to Happen

Keep the cargo load as light as possible because a heavier car consumes more fuel. You
should keep items, especially bulkier items, off your roof rack if possible. The wind
resistance will cause you to use more fuel to propel the car forward through the air. If you
have more than one place to go, combine your trips and plan them so that you can complete
all of your stops in a complete circuit rather than crisscrossing the city several times.

Rotating Your Tires for Winter Safety

While many people ready their cars for winter, they may pay close attention to what is going
on under the hood, but may fail to address issues that can arise from underneath the car. The
tires of a car are the only points of contact your car has with the pavement. If they are not in
good condition, you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road waiting for AAA to
come to your rescue. If you want to avoid that scenario, you should make sure to maintain
your tires by having them rotated, balanced, and checked for correct tire pressure.

Why Should Tire Rotation Be Done?

The ultimate goal of tire rotation is to maintain balanced handling and traction by evening
out the wear on the tires. This can be done during oil changes even when you do not see any
noticeable tire wear. Most manufacturers recommend that you rotate your tires every 3,000
to 5,000 miles. Since each tire presents a different wear pattern depending on how the tire is
contacting and interacting with the driving surface, you should rotate all four tires at the
same time. Doing this will help you to have better control of your car and the tires will
respond quicker to your input. It will help with handling and traction.

How is it Done?

There are three types of tire rotation that can be done: rearward cross, forward cross, and the
X-pattern. The rearward cross method switches the rear tires to the front axles and the front
tires are crossed and then installed on the rear axles. In other words, the rear tires are
brought up to the front axles, the left front tire is installed on the right rear axle, and the
right front tire is installed on the left rear axle. The process is reversed for the forward cross
method, with the rear tires being crossed before being installed on the front axles. The X-
pattern crosses both the front tires and rear tires before being installed on their opposite
axles.

Tips for Buying Winter Tires

When replacing your tires, you should be sure to know the size that you need for your car.
You can locate this information by looking on the doorjamb of the driver side door. You may
find a manufacturer sticker that denotes the size and recommended inflation level of the
tires. You can also consult your driver’s manual or ask your mechanic to find the right size
for you. Winter tires will provide additional traction when driving over snow and ice. These
tires have a pronounced tread and are constructed from heavy-duty rubber. Although the
rubber is soft, it provides additional contact with the road, increasing traction. They perform
well on wet surfaces, but they will affect the performance of your car during the summer.
The soft rubber causes the car to feel like you are not connected with the pavement and will
affect your braking and handling during the warm months. Most people purchase winter
tires for installation for winter driving and then remove them after the winter season. If you
live in an area that does not experience much snow and ice, you can also use all-weather
tires. These tires offer the deep tread of the winter tire but the firmness of regular tires.

Basic Repair Items to Keep in Your Car

It can happen to anyone at any time.  You’re moving along just fine down the road, and suddenly you need to pull over because your car is giving you problems.  You know what’s wrong and you know how to fix it, but you didn’t put the required items in your car.

It’s important to always be prepared for the unexpected with your car.  By having just a few items that take up very little room in your trunk or a storage compartment, you can rest at ease knowing that you may have the ability to get back on the road in a timely manner.

Become a Handy Man with a Tool Box

You can go out to any big box retail store, home improvement or auto parts store and purchase a pre-assembled mechanic’s tool set that you can leave in your car.  These sets usually include one or two ratchets, sockets, Phillips and flathead screw drivers, wrenches, a ratchet extension and a spark plug socket.  Once you have your tool set purchased, you may want to consider getting some mechanic’s gloves to protect your hands if you ever do need to do a quick roadside repair.  You also want to include a wire brush, a rag and duct tape.  How you may use some of these items is to tighten a loose hose clamp with a screwdriver or you can use the duct tape to patch a hole in a hose as a temporary fix.  The wire brush would be used to clean off your battery terminals from corrosion that you found by using a ratchet and a socket from removing the wire from the terminal.

Get a Flashlight and a Knife

These two items can easily go into your glove compartment or center console.  Other than giving you the ability to see a potential problem easier, you can also use it to flag down or warn any other people on the road.  You can use the knife a few different ways to help you.  One way you can use the knife may be to cut a hose to length or remove a damaged end on a hose to make the necessary repair.  You can also use it to cut the duct tape or a rag to patch a hole.  The other way you can use a knife is to cut the seatbelt away from you.  Sometimes, if you were to get into a rollover accident, the seatbelt may not disengage when you press the release button.  By using the knife, you can free yourself and get to safety.  You can also purchase a flashlight-seatbelt cutter-window spike combo to cut down on compartment space.

Vehicle Pick Me Up’s

Some of the more crucial items you want to keep in your vehicle are jumper cables and spare fluids.  There may be a time when you need to jumpstart your car and a willing citizen can help you, but doesn’t have any jumper cables.  If you ever need to use jumper cables, but don’t know how, it’s an easy process.  Put the red clamp to the red terminal and the black clamp to the black terminal.  Just make sure to connect the clamps to the car that is providing the power boost first, then connect your battery.  The spare fluids you want to keep in your vehicle at all times is a quart or two of oil, antifreeze or engine coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid.  You can also leave a gallon of windshield washer fluid, but isn’t necessary.  If you were to spring a leak somewhere, and you’re able to make the repair, you’ll be able to top off the said fluid and get on your way.

Visual Vehicle Checks

Nearly everyone depends on their vehicle on a daily basis. This is why it is important to perform a routine checkup between trips to your mechanic. By doing so you are able to identify and repair problems before they worsen, which will help your vehicle last longer and perform at its best.  Some of your vehicle’s issues can be seen visually, which is why you should take a glimpse around the interior and exterior of your vehicle and note anything that looks out of the ordinary. You should begin by looking at the windshield for any chips or cracks, as well as making sure your interior mirrors are positioned in a spot that you are able to see in front and rear of your vehicle properly. Be sure to check your tire tread for any bumps, holes, cracks or unevenness, which can lead to a flat tire. Your windshield wipers should similarly be checked for any wear and improper functioning. In addition, check to make sure your seatbelts are working and clicking into place properly. Visual inspections are simple, do not take too much time and are a great way to notice any of your vehicle’s glitches.

Brakes and Steering Checks

Another part of your safety inspection that you should have our technicians check are your brakes. If your brake pedal is pressed all the way to the floorboard to stop, this typically indicates that they might need replacing. Listen for any grinding or shaking when trying to stop. Likewise, this can also signify you might need a new set of brakes. Your steering wheel is important too. Make sure your steering wheel has a smooth turning motion.

Light Checks

While starting your vehicle look for any lights on the dashboard that may indicate things such as low fuel, coolant or oil. Most cars will have an indicator light telling you when something under the hood needs to be attended to and those signs should not go ignored. Take a look at your headlights low and high beams for any broken bulbs as well as your taillights and signals. Not having your vehicle’s lights working properly can cause other drivers to not see you, especially in hazardous weather conditions such as fog. By doing an inspection of your lights you are saving yourself and others from a probable accident factor. 

Under the Hood and Under the Vehicle Checks

By checking under the hood and under your vehicle, you are able to check for small problems that could lead to a great deal of damage for your vehicle. Have our technicians check your car engine’s lines and hoses for holes and cracks.  The under part of your vehicle can also be checked for any leaks. See if all belts and spark plugs are free of crakes and wear.  Make sure that all filters are in proper place. Most importantly, check all fluids to make sure they are at their proper levels. Being too low of fluids can cause serious problems for your vehicle like overheating. Have our technicians make sure the muffler is securely fit and check for holes in the exhaust pipe. By taking a few minutes checking your vehicle over, you ensure driving safety as well as keep your vehicle running safely. 

Winter and Your Suspension System

Suspension systems are important because they provide a comfortable ride and stability on the road by absorbing the vibrations from the imperfections in the pavement. In its most basic form, it is comprised of two systems: springs and shock absorbers. Springs can be coil springs, torsion bars, or leaf springs. Coil springs are the most common in American cars. Shock absorbers provide insulation from the vertical motion that occurs when driving on imperfect surfaces. Winter can be cruel to your car and the suspension system is not immune. Taking care of your car will prevent any major car repairs and let you enjoy a comfortable ride.

How Winter Affects Your Suspension

The winter weather can affect your suspension by affecting the road on which you drive. When the temperature drops to freezing and below, the ground begins to freeze. The freezing causes cracks in the surface. As the ground contracts from the cold and creates the holes, water freezes in those cracks. The thawing and freezing cycles make the cracks and potholes wider and more numerous. These imperfections create a rough surface over which to drive. If the potholes are very large, they can cause the shock absorber to bottom out prematurely. The steering and suspension are compromised and the wheel alignment will be affected. Winter can also cause damage to over- or underinflated tires. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to damaged rims and ruptured tires when driving over potholes. If the tire alignment is compromised, you will not be able to completely control the car. If you hit a pothole hard enough, you can even cause damage to the undercarriage of your car because the suspension will not be able to dampen such a large jolt and the bottom of the car will actually hit the ground. 

Preparing Your Car for the Winter

You should make sure that you have a thorough inspection of your car by qualified ASE master technicians. They can perform a bumper-to-bumper inspection and alert you to any possible problems. They can let you know if you need to have a tire alignment, perform fluid checks, and even windshield wiper replacements. They can give you recommendations on when to perform general car maintenance and explain when those tasks need to be done. For your suspension system, they will check tire alignment, tire pressure, and make sure that your steering and suspension is going to be able to handle winter driving conditions. They can check your brakes, brake pads, and replace any worn or damaged parts. 

Driving in Winter Weather

One of the most important things you can do for your car in the winter is to slow down. Snow and ice on the road creates a dangerous situation as they reduce traction between your tires and the road. If you drive fast over ice, your tires will lose contact with the ground and you will hydroplane. In other words, your car will be propelled down the road with the tires not touching the ground. Drive slowly and give the car in front of you plenty of space to give you enough time to stop. Careful driving and proper general car maintenance will make sure that your suspension system will keep you safe and comfortable on the road. 

Diagnosing the Causes of Overheating in the Winter

The winter can be a wonderland or a purgatory, depending on the condition of your car. It can be scary to drive along and suddenly see white smoke billowing from underneath your hood. You look at your temperature gauge and see that the needle is in the red zone. Your car is overheating and with the cold weather, it seems like an almost impossibility. However, overheating in the winter is just as real as overheating in the summer. You should know what causes overheating and how to prevent it. You could save the life of your car and the money in your wallet by proactively managing the care of your car. 

What Can Cause Overheating?

If you notice your car is overheating, the first thing you should inspect is your coolant level. If you have a low coolant level, top it off. If you find that you need to do this frequently, then you may have a leak in you radiator. Be sure to take your car to a mechanic so that the leak can be detected and repaired. If you do not find any leaks, the next thing you should check is the thermostat. If it is stuck in the closed position, which means that the coolants cannot circulate through the radiator. You should also check the radiator fan to make sure that it is still operating. If you do not hear the fan turning when you raise the car hood and start the car, then it is possible that the fan is not working. You should also check the radiator hose to make sure there are no holes and that the gasket is intact. 

How to Prevent Overheating

You can prevent overheating by making sure that you have enough antifreeze in your car. A general safety inspection will help you to monitor the condition of your radiator and its hoses, clamps, and gaskets. If any of those parts appear to be worn or damaged, they should be replaced immediately. Regular general car maintenance will keep you abreast of the condition of your car and let you be proactive in circumventing many potential problems. You should also make sure that there are no holes in the water pump. All of these things are easy to accomplish during your winter safety check. A very effective way to prevent overheating is to change your oil. Engine oil is not normally associated with keeping the engine cool, it provides protection by coating the moving parts inside the engine, reducing the friction and in effect, reducing the heat being created by the friction. 

The Effects of Overheating

If your car is overheating, the heat is causing extensive damage to the engine, especially if you keep driving it while it is hot. To prevent this, you should immediately stop the car and park it to allow the engine to cool. You should make sure that you follow the recommendations set forth by the car manufacturer. Take it to a mechanic and have them perform a safety check to diagnose any problems. If you need to make any repairs, be sure that they are done according to the recommendations. Any deviance from that could result in further car damage and more expensive car repairs, or cancellation of your warranty. 

What Makes an Engine Oil, Good Engine Oil?

Engine oil is very important to the health of a car. It has often been compared to being the blood of the engine and the engine to being the heart. Some people regard it as so important, that they will faithfully change their engine oil every 3,000 miles and nothing can stop them from doing it. Some people have a favorite brand of oil that they swear does wonders for their cars. What is the best oil for your car? What makes oil, good oil, and why do we need it? Is it that important?

What is Engine Oil and Why Do We Need It?

Engine oil is the substance that lubricates your engine and keeps it running. It also protects the engine from rust, gunk, and corrosion. It decreases the heat generated by the moving parts by forming a protective coating over the moving metal parts. This decreases the friction, which results in a reduction in heat produced by that friction. Engine oil has additives included, which are chemical agents that serve as detergents to clean the engine. The molecules of the additives keep the dirt in suspension so it will not settle into the moving parts. The oil also helps to provide a proper seal for the gaskets to prevent leaks.

Types of Oil

One type of oil is conventional oil. This type is made from petroleum hydrocarbon, which is crude oil. This crude oil would be the same oil that is spouting through pipes at oil-rigs. This oil is good for the newer model cars because it is lighter oil. Most newer cars have parts that are too snug against each other for a thicker oil to penetrate. Therefore, the newer cars benefit the most from conventional oil. The second type of oil is the synthetic blend oil. This oil is a mixture of crude oil and lab-created lubricant. These oils are good for older cars, high-mileage cars, and performance cars. The third type of oil is the synthetic oil, which is made of laboratory-created materials. These are the most expensive oils on the market. You should consult your owner’s manual to determine which one you can use in your car. All of these types have either a single or multi-viscosity rating. The single viscosity oil has only one number to denote its rating, such as SAE then a single digit number. This rating denotes the time in seconds times ten that it takes the oil to flow from one point to another when it is warm. Multi-viscosity oils have two ratings, represented as 10W-30 or 5W-20, with the first number representing the flow rate of the oil when it is warm and the second number represents the flow rate of the oil when it is cold. 

How Do You Choose?

You should first determine the type of oil that is already in your car. Then you need to check the owner’s manual to determine if it is the correct one that you should be using for the winter. You need to choose low-viscosity oil in the winter because it will flow easier when it is cold. You also need to consider the age of your car. If you have an older car or a performance car, you may fare well with either a synthetic or a synthetic-blend oil. Consult with your mechanic to determine which would be the best choice for you. 

An Understanding of Your Car’s Power

Have you ever gotten into your car and gone to turn on the vehicle only to find it

doesn’t start? Have you heard a loud and long whining noise that resembles the noise

your car makes when it normally starts, but without the telltale sound of the engine

coming to life? Often when you return to your vehicle, after parking it overnight or

having it in storage for a prolonged period of time, this kind of thing is very common.

The answer, in most cases, barring some severe engine troubles, is that the car’s

battery is dead. This can usually be confirmed by a light on the dashboard, and

depending where your car is parked and what resources are available to you it could

mean a lot of trouble.

The Car’s Battery

When the car’s battery is dead it means it’s getting no power to start. An engine needs

its electrical systems in order to turn on, so without power running through them it’s

pretty much useless. The electrical systems of the car are used to activate the

electronics that then kick the engine into action. When the key is turned there is a fuel

injection into the piston chambers, and an electrical current starts the spark plug,

which ignites the fuel and starts combustion, getting the engine going. With a dead

battery there’s simply no power to start the spark plug, meaning that there’s nothing

to get the engine going in the first place, making the car dead in the water, so to

speak, and not going anywhere.

The Alternator

When your car is turned on and the engine is working, it is constantly generating

power. This power is all filtered through the car’s alternator, which is a system

designed to measure and sort the electrical output of the vehicle. As the car engine

works, as it generates power, this power is sorted out and used to power all of the

car’s electronic systems and charge the battery simultaneously. The alternator output

is crucial to keeping the car running, and often if there’s a problem with the alternator

the car’s battery is going to die very fast, leaving you with very few options. This is why

it’s important to make sure the systems are checked often and that the mechanic you

use also goes about inspecting wires for any flaws.

What to do When the Battery is Dead

So you got into your car and turned the key and the car didn’t start. Either you left your

lights on or your stereo, it doesn’t matter. Leaving the headlights on, especially high

beams, is one of the most common killers of car batteries. If you were prepared for

such a situation you might have a booster kit in your vehicle, to give your car that

jump start it needs to start the engine. If not then you’ll either need to call a tow truck

or find someone friendly enough to give your car a boost. A boost is, quite simply,

sending the electrical charge from one car into another to get the engine going, and

allowing the battery to charge back up.

Headlights: The Illumination to Winter Safety

Headlights are a very important part of vehicle safety. Most of the time, people do not think about them until one of them goes out. Inspecting your headlights should be a part of your routine general car maintenance. If it is not, now is a good time to begin implementing it now that the winter season is looming. It is imperative that you keep your headlights in good condition so that your journeys over pavement are safe and secure. It not only keeps you and your passengers safe; it keeps the other drivers and their passengers safe, also. 

Clean Your Headlights Yourself

You can choose to clean your headlights yourself. The plastic that houses the bulbs for the headlight, fog light, and turn signals can turn yellow or milky over time. The addition of road salt and other chemicals only hastens the discoloration. If the plastic is discolored, it mutes the light coming from the bulb, and you will not have good visibility. This can cause you to have an accident. It can also prevent you from being seen by other drivers. They may not be able to gauge where you are on the road. It is very difficult to remove the yellow or milky film. You can find cleaning kits in auto repair supply stores that may provide some result. You will also be able to find headlight-polishing paste that you can buff onto your headlights and then wipe off. Some people find that the kits can sometimes make new scratches over the ones you are trying to polish out, and they can cause scratches to the paint on the hood and front bumper. 

Get a Professional to Clean Them

The way to get the best possible result is to take it to a professional. An ASE master technician with his certification in auto bodywork would be qualified to perform this service for you. They will have the knowledge and experience needed to get the headlights to shine brightly again. They will have the correct equipment and materials they need and will be able to give your headlights a new life. In cleaning the surface, they will also be removing the road salt and other chemicals and grime that can accumulate and cause damage to your headlights. With the do-it-yourself polishing kits producing lackluster results, many people have opted to take their car to the professional and received a thorough cleaning. They found that their visibility was greatly improved and they felt more comfortable driving at night or when it is dark outside.

What are the Other Benefits?

The most important benefit you get from taking care of your headlights is the additional safety on the road. Clean headlights mean that other drivers will more easily see you and you can see other drivers. The light will be sharp and clear and it can even help your peripheral vision. You will be able to see things that are in your vicinity more clearly. Cleaning your headlights should become a regular part of your maintenance schedule. If you add this increased visibility to the performance you get from your car after a winter safety check, you can make sure that you will not have to spend any time waiting for roadside assistance or for your friends to come pick you up. 

Check Engine Soon Light

It might present itself as a “Check Engine”, “Check Power Train”, “Service Engine Soon”, or just a little engine symbol – but whichever way your car presents the check engine light, it is important not to ignore it.  If a check engine light is ignored for a long period of time, there could be extensive damage done to your car.

Why Was the Check Engine Soon Light Invented?

The check engine soon light is part of your vehicle’s emissions system and it was designed to alert you about emissions problems monitored by the car’s computer.  It became standard on cars in the 1980’s.  Federal law actually mandates that all new cars sold in the United States have a check engine light.  In addition to turning on the check engine light in your car, the car’s computer also stores a code that identifies the source of the problem that allows the problem to later be identified by one of our technicians using a scanner.  This same computer also controls and monitors vehicle performance, fuel mixture, ignition timing, regulates engine speed (RPM), and in some cars it even tells the automatic transmission when to shift.  

What Causes the Check Engine Light to Come On?

There are some common things that cause your check engine soon to come on.  These things include a loose gas cap, faulty oxygen sensor, bad battery, alternator, baseline parts, and hose & wires.  Sometimes the cause of a check engine soon light is as simple as a gas cap that has not been properly secured. In this case, it is a simple fix to make the check engine soon light turn off.  A second cause might be a faulty oxygen sensor.  While a faulty oxygen sensor may be over diagnosed, it is still a common cause of the check engine soon light coming on in your car.  The main purpose of an oxygen sensor is to examine the amount of oxygen in your car’s exhaust system as compared to the oxygen outside of the system.   The third possible cause of the check engine soon light coming on is a bad car battery.  Our technicians can use an automotive computer to make sure that your battery isn’t causing problems with your car’s electrical system and electronic parts.   A forth cause of the check engine soon light coming on might be your car’s alternator.  Our technicians can test your alternator and diodes.   Your car’s alternator converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) though a series of diodes.  If these diodes fail to complete the conversion, then the AC current can pass into your car’s electrical system confusing your car’s computer and turning on the car’s check engine soon light.  The fifth possible cause of your check engine soon light coming on can be your car’s hoses and wires.  Thus, it is important to get your car’s hoses and wires inspected by our technicians.  If a bad battery and alternator are ruled out as the cause for your check engine light coming on, our technicians may do a visual inspection of your hoses and wires.  During a visual inspection we look for oil soaked wires and vacuum hoses.  We also keep an eye out for frayed wire and anything else that looks out of the ordinary.  Lastly, our technicians may check that your car’s baseline parts are properly controlling fuel delivery and producing high voltage to fire up your car’s spark plugs.  

What Is Tire Alignment and What Causes Improper Tire Alignment?

Improper tire alignment can create problems with your vehicle.  Simply put, tire alignment encompasses all components that make your vehicle go straight. Improper tire alignment can affect your cars driving performance as well as cost you money. When you get your car tires aligned by one of our professionals, all four wheels are positioned straight ahead and parallel. Your car tires can get out of alignment due to many factors, including simply driving your car.  Running over a pothole and driving on unpaved roads both can take your car suspension out of where it is set and cause tire alignment to be off.

Why Is Tire Alignment Important?

Tire alignment is important for many reasons.  The first reason is to make sure that your tires are aligned is that it improves your car’s gas mileage.  Especially when gas prices are very high, every adjustment that can be made to your car to save money is a good thing.  Having your tires aligned properly decreases the resistance your car gets from your tires and thus saves you money.  The second reason for good tire alignment is that it improves safety.  When wheels are properly aligned, it improves your car’s tracking and steering, making car driving safer.  The third reason for proper tire alignment is it reduces tire wear.  If your car tires are aligned and wear evenly, than your tires will last longer and you won’t spend as much money on tire replacement.  Improper tire alignment contributes to tire wear because your tires are either pulled in an awkward direction or not rolling straight, causing excessive wear.  The forth reason to maintain good tire alignment is that it improves vehicle handling.  If your car vibrates or shimmies, it is probably due to improper tire alignment.  When tires are not aligned properly, it can also cause your steering wheel to pull to one side or the other.  It could also make your vehicle feel as though it is loose or wanders.  Frankly put, tire alignment can drastically improve vehicle handling and driving enjoyment.  

What is Adjusted in Tire Alignment?

What actually is adjusted during tire alignment?  There are four elements that go into tire alignment including the caster, toe, ride height, and camber. The caster is part of your cars suspension and is the angle of the steering axis.  It supports the tire assembly and the tire itself.  The caster stabilizes your vehicle at high speeds and improves the overall steering feel of your car.  The toe is whether or not the rears of the tires are closer or further apart as opposed to the fronts of the tires.  Ride height is the distance between the frame of the vehicle and the road.  The camber is the inward and outward tilt of your tire.  Adjusting the camber dictates how much tire tread will be in contact with the road.

How Often Should Tires Be Realigned?

So, how often should tires be realigned?  It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for tire alignment.  These tips can be found in your car’s owner’s manual.  Generally, tire alignment should be checked every 10,0000 miles or once a year.

Reduce Your Auto Repair Bills with General Car Maintenance

The condition of the economy has made many people look for ways to cut costs in their housing, heating, food, and auto repair in the winter. Even though money may be tight, you should not skimp on general car maintenance. Establishing a regular schedule of maintaining your car is the best way to ward off high auto repair bills and improve fuel efficiency. If you are not sure when you should be performing maintenance, you can consult your owner’s manual or your local trusted mechanic to help you set up a regular schedule that you can post in an area where you are sure to see it frequently. Since you will see it often, the subject of car maintenance will be more likely to make a leap up your list of priorities.

Watch Your Fluid Levels

One of the most important things you can do for your car is to routinely check your fluid levels. Some people only check the brake fluid and oil and consider their work done, but it is more to it than that. Make sure that all your fluids are clean. Flush out your radiator and change the oil. When you change the oil, do not forget to change the oil and air filters. Regular fluid checks can reveal any leaks or other problems that may be developing. If you notice that your oil level is getting lower in a short amount of time, you could have a leak or some other engine issue. Your car should not be consuming brake fluid. If you notice that your brake fluid level is getting lower, you have a leak somewhere and you need to take it to a mechanic so it can be repaired immediately. Loss of brake fluid can result in a complete loss of stopping ability. Top off your windshield washer fluid and check your transmission fluid levels.

Have a Bumper-to-Bumper Inspection Before the Winter

A bumper-to-bumper inspection is not just to assure a car buyer that the car of interest is in good running condition. A complete inspection would include all of the systems on your car, including the heating and cooling systems, steering and suspension systems, and braking and transmission systems. It would also include a tire inspection and you can add other options such as wheel alignment and inspecting wires. Your engine will be checked for potential problems and your mechanic will inform you of any problems he sees and give you an estimate of the repairs needed. If you have your car checked before the winter, you can be assured that your car will run during the winter with minimal issues. 

Take Care of the Tires

A tire inspection will help you to determine if you have the proper amount of air in your tires. It is best to invest in a good set of snow tires for the winter. Although all-season tires are available and popular, car manufacturers are making tires wider and with a low profile, which means that your car is actually lower to the ground. Low-profile tires are not conducive to driving on snow and the efforts to control fuel consumption by optimizing air pressure are minimal at best. Checking your tires will help you discover any slow leaks or other possible tire problems. If you catch problems early enough and faithfully perform general car maintenance in the present, you can avoid a huge repair bill in the future. 

Keeping Your Car Running

For most people a vehicle is a crucial part to their everyday lives. It’s required to go to and from work, to link them up with loved ones and to take them where they need to go. Taking armloads of groceries onto a bus is unappealing to everyone, and a car helps to save you from all that trouble. In fact some places don’t even have a bus system, so those groceries would be dead weight you have to carry all the way home. However for all the help a car is to you and your everyday life, it needs to be taken care of as well. The relationship between driver and car is mutually symbiotic, and so long as they take care of each other, everything will continue in peace.

General Maintenance

The driver of a car takes many things for granted as they use the vehicle, but it’s important they at least keep certain things running. Maintaining air pressure in the tires, gas in the tank and windshield washer fluid full are all small things that every driver should do simply because these things all affect their everyday performance. Since the driver is behind the windshield, for example, it’s very important they keep the windshield washer fluid full so when they push that button, the wipers will clean the glass and allow them to see again; something which is vital to all drivers. If it doesn’t come clean perhaps it’s time to look into windshield wiper replacements, easily available at auto parts stores, where service representatives can help you find the right type for your model of car.

Inspections and Routine Maintenance

Most people don’t have a thorough knowledge of the inner working of their vehicle, however they can sense when something is off. The car might slowly veer to the left or right, for example, or take bumps particularly hard on occasion. Little things can tip people off that there’s a problem either started or forming in their vehicle. When this happens it’s crucial that these warning signs are not ignored and the vehicle is brought in for inspection. Usually these things are caught, however, during routine maintenance performed. Tire rotation should be performed quite regularly, as well as oil changes and routine check-ups.

Improving Longevity

Most people seek to make their vehicle last as long as possible. There are many things you can do to increase the longevity of a car and also increase its performance. Checking tire pressure, keeping the oil fresh, replacing the engine coolant and all those little things help add months, if not years, onto a vehicle’s life. Keeping it clean both inside and out can help prevent rusting or deterioration of the material that makes the car. Taking it inside from the rain or covering it if it’s stored outside for a long period of time, as well as making sure the gas tank is never completely empty, help it for long term storage, and in such a case turning it on and running it for a short period of time can make sure it requires little maintenance when taken out of storage.

General Car Maintenance Tips for the Beginner

While you are forgiven if you head to the mechanic for most car and engine repairs, you must ensure you carry out basic maintenance and checks on your own. Car maintenance checks are much more than checking and topping off your fluids, checking your tire pressure, and make sure all your lights work. In order to enhance the shelf life of your car, you will need to carry out the following basic maintenance operations on your car.

Make Sure Your Brakes Are Efficient

Brakes and brake pads in a car are very important for you to efficiently maneuver the vehicle. You must never ignore the condition of your brakes, as brake failure can be the most dangerous car break downs that can be life shattering, second only to tire failure. In order to make sure you never have to bear the brunt of a brake failure in your life, check the fluid levels periodically and ensure that your brake pads are in top working order. Failure in the brake components must be immediately taken care of by a mechanic before it leaves you stranded on the freeway or worse. You must ideally, look to replace your brakes once you notice that your stopping power has greatly diminished or your brake pedal isn’t as stiff as it once was.

Regular Tire Inspections Are A Must

The tires on your car are the victims of rash driving, incessant speed changes, bad and bumpy roads, and constant braking. Nonetheless, they tend to wear away sooner than the eight year shelf life they’re sold with. You must keep an eye on the tire alignment, tire pressure and other tire safety parameters. When you notice even a slight problem with your tires, make sure you immediately visit a mechanic and get your car inspected. Tires are hugely responsible for safety in the car and you must never let faulty tires put you and your car in risk at all. One way you can ensure long lasting tires is by using a tread depth gauge to check for optimum thickness regularly. However, during summers and winters, proper tire inspections at a garage are necessary, though the readings on the tread depth gauge might reveal no problems.

Proper Coolant Checks Are Important

The coolant in your engine is in charge of several tasks and thus, requires constant checking. It not only keeps your radiator from overheating but also is a good antifreeze component, and keeps corrosion levels low in the internal hardware of your car. Treating your coolant with the recognition it deserves is an important general car maintenance task. You must not only check the coolant levels regularly, but also make sure that cleanliness and effectiveness is at an even keel. If there is a slight disconnect in the efficiency of your coolant, you must strive to replace it as soon as possible. Though you must look at your car manual for more details on the specific coolant replacement times recommended, we suggest replacing the coolant either after 24,000 miles or every two years. Apart from fuel inspections, you also have to check engine belts, head, brake and turn signal lights, and fuel efficiency for a comfortable shelf life.