Why do we call it a "tune up"? It's because the first ignition systems consisted of spark plugs and ignition coils, and as the coils worked they would emit a buzzing sound. If they were all working together correctly, they would all buzz at the same level and be “in tune.”
Don't ignore even the smallest crack in your car's windshield as it can quickly grow and cause it to fail. For everyone's safety, have the windshield repaired or replaced immediately.
A variety of other components affect your transmission’s operational efficiency. If the radiator is cracked, or the cooling lines are leaking, for example, the transmission fluid breaks down, and the transmission may be damaged by excessive heat.
Be weary of any transmission shop that used just an electronic diagnosis to determine the problem with your transmission. In most cases, actually taking it apart and seeing the inside is required for an accurate assessment.
Are you having all the maintenance milestones for your car or truck attended to? Doing so helps you get every penny out of your investment and increases your ride's resale value. The owner's manual provides you information on what and when maintenance is needed.
If it sounds like your car's turn signals are blinking too rapidly, it most likely the fuse is about to give out. Fortunately, this is a quick, easy and inexpensive repair.
What does it mean to “turn” a rotor? Turning a rotor means putting it on a brake lathe and shave off small amounts of material to remove any imperfections.
If your car is overheating, and the upper radiator hose is significantly cooler than the lower hose, this is most likely due to a failed thermostat. Overheating is a serious issue that should never be ignored.
If you hear noises when your transmission is in neutral, keep in mind that this might still be your transmission. In fact, noise from a transmission in neutral can indicate a serious issue such as mechanical wear (worn bearings or worn gear teeth, for example).
Many people believe the myth that leaving an automatic transmission in overdrive will ruin your transmission. In reality, automatic transmissions determine your gear and only use overdrive when it needs to.
A mild drifting of the vehicle to the right is normal as most major roadways have a peak in the middle and mild slope downward. However, it’s still a great idea to get your alignment checked when in doubt.
Parasitic draw is an abnormal and continuous battery drain that occurs when the vehicle is off. You likely won't notice any problem under normal operation, but if the vehicle sits for a few days, it could kill the battery.
A rotten egg or sulfur odor coming from the engine exhaust could indicate several things. It may be the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, PCV valve, ignition timing, or some other issue. It is an easily diagnosed problem.
Can you name the three main types of brake pads? Well, they are organic, semi-metallic, and ceramic. Organic pads that are a mixture of natural materials, like glass and rubber, are the least expensive.
The 1948 Oldsmobile was the first car model to use a true automatic transmission. This was called the "Hydro-Matic" and was developed by Earl Thompson of General Motors.
The Engine Control Unit Software (ECU) of your car is the brain behind the horsepower that controls everything from the fuel consumption to transmission. Hence, it is important to upgrade it timely.
Pay attention to, and become familiar with, the sounds your car makes when it is running normally. When you hear something you do not recognize, don't turn up the radio to drown it out, bring it in for service.
Transmission fluid has three main functions. Can you list them? Well, they are lubricating the transmission's moving parts, washing away any loose debris, and acting as the hydraulic fluid. Problems in any one of these functions can cause transmission failure.
Typically the changing of transmission fluids should be performed every 20,000-30,000 miles or every two years. Consult with your owners manual to find out specific maintenance procedures for your vehicle.
Just like radiators, transmissions benefit from winter preparation. Before the season starts, have the transmission fluid checked. It’s important to ensure the fluid is at the proper level, it’s clear not cloudy, and it has no strong odor.
Grinding sounds when braking are not good; it indicates the pads have failed and the metal backing is rubbing on the brake rotor. Bring your car in immediately to have the problem fixed.
The tire pressure gauge is a device used to check the level of air in your tires. Tires that are overinflated or underinflated can lead to decreased gas mileage and other problems such as uneven wear.
Keeping the tires at right pressure ensures an ideal point of contact of the tread to the road so the tires don’t drag excessively. Make sure to check tire pressure once per month after the vehicle has been sitting overnight.
Why is it recommended to replace coil springs in pairs? Well, this is because if you replace only one spring, the left and right springs will wear differently over time, giving you an uneven ride height.