HOW TO PRESERVE MY VEHICLE'S BATTERY
May 15, 2023
The battery in your vehicle requires regular maintenance, just like your oil. In fact, your vehicle’s battery could be in poor condition, and you do not even know it. The battery provides the power your vehicle needs to keep moving. Generally, your battery will stay charged from your alternator as you drive, but if you leave your vehicle sitting for an extended period of time or it is an old battery, this may not occur. You do not want to be out and about and be stuck and stranded due to a dead battery. There are many ways to help preserve your battery so that this does not happen to you. If you do experience battery issues or need battery replacement, see our automotive repair shop for all your battery needs.
HOW LONG DOES YOUR VEHICLE’S BATTERY LAST?
The battery in your vehicle typically lasts between 3 and 5 years. This is mainly due to the changes in weather, such as driving during the hot summer days. Your engine is producing a lot of heat, and with the weather scorching down on your battery well, this can severely affect your battery’s overall lifespan. This is also because there is fluid in your battery, and this fluid evaporates, which changes how well it can hold a charge. With all of this said, this entails that vehicle batteries typically last longer in colder climates. Regardless of your environment, taking proper precautions and maintaining your battery is essential.
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PRESERVE YOUR BATTERY
There are several things you can do to help preserve your battery. These suggestions are the best ways to ensure your battery has a long life!
- Keep your battery fastened tightly- Vibrations can significantly reduce the longevity of your battery, so keeping it securely fastened will prevent excessive vibrations
- Keep your battery clean- a dirty battery can corrode or create mild short circuits, eventually creating a dead battery. Keeping them clean and free of corrosion will help prevent this.
- Minimize heat- Extreme heat is brutal on your battery. Prevention includes parking in the shade or a garage.
- Avoid short trips- Your vehicle's battery can't fully charge during short trips. Drive your automobile frequently and for long stretches of time to keep the battery charged.
- Don’t leave the lights on- Keeping your headlights or interior lights on while the engine isn't running is hard on the battery. Always turn off all accessories before leaving the vehicle, and ensure the lights are out before you leave.
- Use your vehicle- Batteries inherently lose charge over time, a process known as "self-discharge," regardless of the brand. Drive your vehicle so your alternator can recharge your battery.
RECEIVING REGULAR BATTERY SERVICE
Regular maintenance work is required for the engine in your vehicle. One of the many parts of an engine that might fail if not properly maintained is the vehicle battery. Keep your battery on the list of maintenance items to check, so you're never caught with a bad or dead battery. Our automotive repair shop can help. We have expert technicians and technology to see if your vehicle needs a new battery, and we can also handle all your battery replacement needs as well!
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your vehicle's long-term health and performance. By following a few simple preventative maintenance tips, you can save yourself from unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. Regular upkeep enhances your vehicle’s longevity and contributes to a safer and more efficient driving experience. Let's explore some essential maintenance tasks that every vehicle owner should prioritize. REGULAR FLUID CHECKS AND CHANGES One of the most crucial aspects of preventative maintenance is monitoring and changing fluids in your vehicle. This includes engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Regularly checking these fluids and changing them at the recommended intervals helps to keep your vehicle's vital systems operating smoothly. Low or contaminated fluids can lead to engine overheating, poor shifting, brake failure, and other serious issues. Consult your vehicle's manual or seek professional assistance to ensure you use the correct fluids and adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations. TIRE CARE AND ROTATION Proper tire maintenance is essential for both safety and fuel efficiency. To ensure your tires stay in optimal condition, follow these key tips: Regularly check tire pressure: Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of each tire, including the spare. Refer to the vehicle's manual or the sticker inside the driver's door for the recommended pressure. Underinflated or overinflated tires can affect handling, fuel economy, and tire wear. Inspect tire tread depth: Adequate tire tread depth is crucial for traction and safe driving, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to check the depth. Consider replacing the tires if the tread depth is close to or below the recommended limit. Rotate your tires: Rotating your vehicle's tires at regular intervals helps promote even wear. The front and rear tires experience different levels of stress and wear, so rotating them helps distribute the workload evenly. Consult your vehicle's manual or an auto repair professional to determine the recommended rotation pattern and interval. Wheel alignment: Periodically have your wheels aligned to ensure proper tire wear and handling. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, vibration, and reduced fuel efficiency. If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side or uneven tire wear, it may be time for wheel alignment. By following these tire care tips and incorporating them into your preventative maintenance routine, you can maximize the lifespan of your tires, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance overall safety on the road. BATTERY INSPECTION AND CLEANING The vehicle's battery is its power source, and a weak or dead battery can leave you stranded. To avoid unexpected battery failure, periodically inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and tightly connected. Clean any buildup using a battery cleaning brush or a mixture of baking soda and water. Consider regularly testing your battery's voltage to assess its health and replace it if necessary. If you're unsure about battery maintenance, consult an auto repair professional to assist you with testing, cleaning, and replacement. REGULAR INSPECTION OF BELTS AND HOSES The belts and hoses in your vehicle play a critical role in the proper functioning of various systems, including the engine, cooling system, and air conditioning. Over time, these components can deteriorate and develop cracks, leaks, or become loose. Regularly inspect the belts for signs of wear, such as fraying or cracking, and ensure they are properly tensioned. Similarly, check the hoses for leaks, bulges, or soft spots. Replace any worn or damaged belts and hoses promptly to prevent costly engine damage or system failures. Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. By following these simple tips and scheduling regular check-ups with an auto repair professional, you can ensure your vehicle's longevity, safety, and optimal performance. Remember, investing time and effort in preventative maintenance now will save you from costly repairs and keep you on the road with peace of mind.
Whether it’s the first vehicle purchase or the seventh, a new vehicle or a used vehicle, completing a thorough test drive can save the vehicle owner both money and time. Buying a vehicle comes with many challenges, including what dealership to purchase from, is a warranty included, how many miles are on the vehicle, and whether it is appealing. These are the daunting questions that buyers often ask themselves when in the process of purchase. One major element that a lot of people don’t take seriously enough during their vehicle buying experience is a test drive. Test driving a vehicle consists of a thorough, hands-on inspection of the vehicle in use and while parked. Test drives can unravel any hidden issues that the vehicle may not be able to express unless driven. For this reason, auto repair professionals highly recommend conducting a thorough examination of the outward appearance as well as the drivability of the vehicle. WHAT CAN A TEST DRIVE AND RESEARCH TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR PROSPECTIVE VEHICLE? A test drive can reveal any underlying issues that may be present in your future vehicle. There are several things that should be attended to and acquired with the dealership, and the vehicle and its parts that everything is in working order. The first reference to a vehicle’s health should be guided with the vehicle’s history report. The history report will express if maintenance was performed regularly and on-time, if a previous accident occurred that could alter the integrity of the vehicle, and the value of the vehicle given the year, make, and model. All these elements should be considered preferably before the test drive begins, but certainly before the point of purchase. Professionals recommend looking over any paperwork or documentation related to the vehicle to ensure the vehicle will meet your needs and budget. Additional ways to evaluate your future vehicle Many other ways to thoroughly evaluate a prospective vehicle for drivability and dependability is through a visual inspection as well. A visual inspection can eliminate the chance of purchasing a vehicle that is due for maintenance and repairs not long after the transaction is complete. Professionals recommend examining the following components for possible wear and tear: • Worn or overused tires • Jammed windows or poor performing auto electrical buttons. • Body paint damage including, worn paint, rust, scratches, minor dents etc. • Squeaking doors when opened or closed. • Interior wear including, seat damage, worn print on dashboard controls, or a poor performing seat belt. HOW TO COMPLETE A TEST DRIVE? A thorough test drive starts in the driver’s seat and ends with familiarizing oneself with any issues that may be going on under the hood. From the moment a car buyer sits in the driver’s seat, they should begin evaluating the drivability of the vehicle by examining the seats, checking inside and out of the vehicle for any blemishes that stick out, driving the vehicle at fast and slow speeds, and checking the brakes. The driver should listen for a loud idling engine, complications when shifting gears, issues with the electrical components of the vehicle, the smoothness of the ride, and any other issues that may come about during the drive. It is essential that the vehicle is evaluated thoroughly for anything that can result in complications with drivability in the future. Whether a vehicle is new or used, these evaluation steps apply. A vehicle is notorious for losing value the moment it is driven from the dealership lot, so it is pivotal the vehicle buyers ask the right questions, research the prospective vehicle, read over any documentation in connection with the vehicle, and perform a thorough test drive. These steps are crucial in eliminating the opportunity of purchasing a vehicle that will cost you more time and money to have then serve its purpose of providing dependable transportation.
Your vehicle's fuel system is like the heart of your vehicle, responsible for delivering fuel to the engine to create the power needed to get you where you need to go. Just like your heart, your fuel system requires regular maintenance and care to keep it running at peak performance. In this article, we'll take a look at fuel system repair from a different perspective, exploring some unconventional ways to keep your fuel system healthy and running smoothly. WAYS TO DIAGNOSE FUEL SYSTEM ISSUES Most drivers know the common signs of fuel system issues, such as reduced fuel efficiency, hard starting, and strange noises. But did you know that there are some unusual ways to diagnose fuel system issues? Here are a few: Take a Whiff: If you smell gasoline while driving or when you start your vehicle, it could be a sign that your fuel system is leaking. While it's not always the case, a gasoline odor can indicate a fuel line or fuel tank leak. Check Your Mileage: If you're getting significantly fewer miles per gallon than you used to, it could be a sign of fuel system issues. While many factors can impact fuel efficiency, a sudden drop in gas mileage can be a red flag that something is amiss. Listen Up: Your vehicle's engine should run smoothly, without any knocking or pinging sounds. If you hear unusual sounds coming from your engine, it could be a sign of fuel system problems. For example, a hissing noise could indicate a fuel line leak, while a knocking sound could mean your fuel injectors need cleaning or replacement. THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR FUEL SYSTEM PREVENTION Preventing fuel system issues isn't just about regular maintenance and inspections. Here are a few outside-the-box tips to keep your fuel system in top condition: Use Quality Fuel: The quality of fuel you use can have a significant impact on your fuel system's health. Choosing high-quality fuel from a reputable supplier can help keep your fuel system clean and free of contaminants. Go Green: Consider using alternative fuels, such as biodiesel or ethanol blends. These fuels can help keep your fuel system clean while reducing your vehicle's carbon footprint. Keep It Clean: A clean fuel system is a happy fuel system. Regular fuel injector cleaning can help prevent buildup and keep your fuel system running smoothly. Upgrade Your Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to your engine, which can put extra strain on your fuel system. Upgrading to a high-performance air filter can help your engine breathe easier and reduce the risk of fuel system problems. Fuel system repair is an essential component of vehicle maintenance, but taking a unique perspective can help you diagnose and prevent issues before they become major problems. By thinking outside the box and using unconventional methods to keep your fuel system healthy, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient driving experience for years to come.
If you’re wondering, “When do I need new tires?” we have some answers to your questions and concerns. Perhaps you’ve had a flat or experienced another specific tire issue, and you’re thinking it may be time for new tires, but you’re not sure. Maybe you ran over a nail. Do you need a tire repair or to replace your tire? What about a wheel alignment? You’ve seen advertisements and heard commercials for wheel alignments, but when is it truly necessary? As a non-mechanic, how do you know? Well, we can point you in the right direction, right now, and give you honest advice for tire care when you come to our shop. COMMON TRICK - THE PENNY TEST Modern tires sold in the U.S. have “tread wear bars,” which are small raised rubber bars in the grooves of your tires. When you look at your tire tread, you’ll see these bars running between the tread. If you see these bars are flush with your tire tread, it’s time for new tires. Another easy way to tell if you need new tires is the penny test. Simply take a penny and place Lincoln’s head in one of the grooves of your tire tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then head to a tire shop for new tires. While you’re inspecting your tires, check a few different spots for any irregular tread wear. This could indicate you need a wheel alignment as well as new tires. HOW A WHEEL ALIGNMENT CAN HELP PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR NEW TIRES Despite the amount of attention you give your tires, there are still outside forces that will take a toll on your tire’s condition. If you consistently drive in crude weather conditions or you’ve had your tires for many years now, the elasticity loses shape and crack start forming along the surface. Remember, if the cracks are light then you don’t have anything to worry about. Now if you notice a lot of splintering on your tire, you should act fast in taking your tires to get looked at by a professional sooner rather than later. TIRE ALIGNMENT Regardless of the amount of time and care you put into your tires, there are still other elements out of your control that effect your tires. If you live in an area with jarring weather conditions or your tires are starting to age, the elasticity begins to get loose and cracks appear along the outside. Small cracks shouldn’t cause for any worry, however if you begin to see a reoccurrence of splintering you are definitely going to want to take your car into a shop to get your tires further examined.
The steering system is a vital part of any vehicle. It allows the driver to control the direction of the vehicle, and just like all mechanical components, the steering system is prone to failure. Failure can be the result of normal wear and tear and malfunction and can lead to an unsafe ride for the driver and their passengers. In this blog, we will go over the most common causes of steering system failure, the warning signs to look out for, and the preventative measures to avoid costly repairs for the long haul. WHAT CAUSES THE STEERING SYSTEM TO FAIL? There can be a number of reasons why the steering system in a vehicle begins to fail, all of which can jeopardize the safety of the driver and other passengers if the steering column terminates during operation. The steering wheel in a vehicle is in place to assist the vehicle operator with controlling the direction in which they wish for the vehicle to go. With the accelerating pedal, steering wheel, and tires, the driver is granted the ability to turn left or right, drive forward, or reverse the vehicle. A steering wheel system as a whole is made up of the steering wheel, steering shaft and column, tie rods, rack, idler arms, pitman arm, and a drag or center link component. These parts contribute greatly to a vehicle's ability to be driven in the direction that the operator desires. The steering system is susceptible to failure, just like every other component in a vehicle. Failure within the steering column typically correlates to normal wear and tear, such as corrosion, loose or damaged connections, or an electrical issue. Corrosion is caused by exposure to moisture, salt, or many other environmental influences. When corrosion occurs within the steering column, the steering parts can become weak or brittle, with the potential to fail over time. Since the steering system is connected to many other components in the vehicle, when wiring or parts become loose or damaged, the steering column is most susceptible to failure. Lastly, electrical issues have the potential to cause a lot of faults within the vehicle. Still, the steering system's wires and sensors are also open to termination if there are failures within these components as well. WHAT ARE THE SIGNS? Some of the signs that the steering wheel system is failing include: Difficulty turning the wheel. Squeaking and grinding noises Steering wheel vibrations Steering wheel tilt is not functioning. Steering wheel feels loose or wobbly. Steering wheel is off-center. All these signals are the vehicle's way of communicating that the steering wheel and its components are on their way to complete failure. It is highly recommended by auto repair professionals to have the steering system inspected and repaired as soon as any of these signals occur. Staying on top of maintenance prevents irreversible damage and eliminates the opportunity of compromising the safety of you and your passengers. How to prevent it? The best way to prevent steering system failure is through regular maintenance practices to check for leaks and to ensure the correct fluids are being used as well. It is also recommended by auto repair specialists to drive safely and avoid impacts from hitting curbs, barriers, potholes, or any other surfaces that can cause damage to the steering system. Another tip to prevent steering system issues is to avoid overloading the vehicle by putting extra stress on the vehicle and its parts. Lastly, as soon as steering system signals arrive, have a professional make the repair right away. Going too long without acknowledging the signs of fault in your steering system can cause more severe damage down the line. Helpful Tips: Some of the best advice to maintain vehicle performance is through the practice of maintenance. Maintenance is pushed by auto repair shops so intensely because it brings to light whatever issues that may start as minor but become major if not taken care of promptly. Our auto repair technicians have the technology to properly diagnose the vehicle to find and get rid of any complexities that may be going on within it. Visit our trusted auto repair shop whenever you suspect any issues with the steering system in your vehicle.
Fluid services are critical components of maintaining the health of your vehicle. From an oil change to a coolant flush, these services help keep your engine running smoothly and can help extend the life of your vehicle. At our reputable automotive repair shop, expert technicians use high-quality products to provide fluid service and keep your vehicle in top condition. They will drain and replace the old oil or coolant with high-quality products that are specifically designed for your vehicle. The technicians will also perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle's engine and its related components to ensure that there are no other issues that need to be addressed. OIL CHANGES An oil change is one of the most important fluid services your vehicle needs. It helps to keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly. The oil in your vehicle becomes contaminated over time and loses its ability to lubricate the engine, which can cause damage to internal parts. An oil change at our trusted automotive repair shop will ensure that your vehicle runs with fresh, clean oil. COOLANT FLUSHES A coolant flush is another important fluid service for your vehicle. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, helps regulate your engine’s temperature and protects it from overheating. Over time, coolant can become contaminated with rust and other debris, which can clog the engine's cooling system and lead to damage. A coolant flush at our professional automotive repair shop will remove the old, contaminated coolant and replace it with fresh, clean coolant to keep your engine running at optimal temperature. By investing in regular fluid services, you can help prevent potential problems from becoming bigger and more expensive to repair. For example, a clogged engine's cooling system can cause the engine to overheat, which can lead to serious damage to internal parts. This can result in costly repairs that could have been prevented with a simple coolant flush. Other Types of Fluid Maintenance In addition to oil changes and coolant flushes, a reputable automotive repair shop can also provide a range of other fluid services, including: Transmission fluid services Power steering fluid services Brake fluid services BENEFITS OF REGULAR FLUID MAINTENANCE Regular fluid services also help improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. When your engine is running smoothly, it uses less fuel, which can save you money at the gas pump. By investing in regular fluid services, you can also help reduce your vehicle's carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. Scheduling regular fluid services at our reputable automotive repair shop can also give you peace of mind. You can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands and that our expert technicians will perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle's engine and its related components. They will catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems, which can save you money and help extend the life of your vehicle. In conclusion, vehicle fluid services are an important form of preventative maintenance that can help extend the life of your vehicle, improve its fuel efficiency, and give you peace of mind. By investing in regular fluid services at our reputable automotive repair shop, you can ensure that your engine is running smoothly and protected from damage. So why wait? Schedule your next fluid service appointment today!
There are several reasons why a vehicle may be vibrating to communicate that there is an issue with a component in the vehicle. A vehicle is made of many different components, all of which have the potential to fail due to wear and tear or misuse. The vehicle is comprised of elements that are designed to signal when there is an issue within it such as shaking, vibrating, wobbling, and more. Car vibrations are one of the most common signs that there are either issues with the axle, wheels, tires, brakes, or the engine. There could even be complications within the steering wheel. Here is a list of parts that may signal through vibration that there is an issue and how it can impact the vehicle's performance. AXLE The axle plays a very important role in supplying a vehicle with the support it needs to perform optimally. The axle is made of a rod or shaft that rotates the wheels to supply the weight of a vehicle with proper support. The axle is made up of three very important parts: Front Rear Stub If an axle is bent or uneven it will often cause the vehicle to vibrate which communicates to the operator that there is an issue. Oftentimes, a bent axle occurs after a collision happens, when a vehicle is driven into a ditch, or from driving over speed bumps too harshly. Misalignment and the Suspension System The alignment of a vehicle is the system that connects the wheels to the vehicle such as the suspension system. The suspension system is comprised of various components all employed to support the vehicle's ability to roll smoothly. When a vehicle is taken into an auto repair shop for alignment service, technicians will simply adjust the angles within the suspension system to ensure the vehicle's tires meet the road appropriately and proportionately. The suspension systems job is to make sure that all four tires support each other with same speed and direction. How does misalignment occur? A vehicle becomes misaligned due to various causes such as: Collisions Hitting potholes Driving a vehicle too harshly To make sure a vehicle is always aligned properly, the operator must prioritize proper tire care. Tire rotations, wheel balances, and wheel alignments must be maintained to avoid misalignment. When a vehicle is misaligned, wobbling within the wheel system occurs or the vehicle may drift to opposing sides. There is also the possibility of steering wheel vibrations and shaking that may occur to communicate alignment issues. Having the vehicle aligned properly is not a difficult task but it is recommended that it is performed by an auto repair professional to guarantee servicing is done properly to eliminate issues with other components down the line. TIRES The tires are the most common reason that vibrating occurs in a vehicle. As stated before, the tires require regular maintenance and care to ensure they can supply the vehicle with the support it needs to ride smoothly. The following tire issues will cause unwanted vibrations within the vehicle: Tire Imbalance - Vibrating is often displayed when the vehicle is driven at high speeds to indicate that there is an imbalance somewhere. Uneven tire wear - Uneven tire wear is normal due to wear and tear but can be kept to a minimum if tire rotations are performed on time. Lack of tire rotation will cause the vehicle to vibrate when driven. Improper tire inflation - The tires on a vehicle must be inflated to proper air levels to ensure the vehicle drives smoothly and proportionately. When the tires are inflated at various air pressure levels, the vehicle may vibrate, rattle, or wobble when driven to signal that there is an imbalance somewhere. ENGINE The engine is the most important component in a vehicle by providing it with the power it needs to function. There is the possibly of engine failure due to lack of maintenance which in turn causes the vehicle to signal in different ways such as shuddering, jerking, or shaking that there is a complication. If the vehicle's engine is not supplied with the right amount of air, fuel, or spark it will not run smoothly. Faulty spark plugs are one of the most common causes of vibrations from the engine of a vehicle. There is also the possibility that a clogged or dirty air filter is causing problems within the engine and in turn the engine vibrates to communicate it needs attention. BRAKES Another cause of vibrating in a vehicle may be because there are problems with the brakes. Typically, the brakes will severely vibrate whenever the operator applies a maximum amount of pressure to the pedal. Warped rotors are one of the most common causes that a vehicle's brakes may vibrate to signal that there is a problem and must be replaced by an auto repair specialist to guarantee that the brakes are able to perform appropriately.
Even though you might not pay much attention to it, your vehicle’s timing belt is crucial to how it works mechanically. An internal engine part called the timing belt ensures that each cylinder fires at the right moment by synchronizing the crankshaft and camshaft rotations. You'll find your vehicle's timing belt near the front of the engine, under a timing cover. Because it's made of high-quality rubber, it will eventually need to be changed. Rubber doesn’t last forever. Without a properly functioning belt, your vehicle isn’t going anywhere. WHAT IS A TIMING BELT? A vehicle’s timing belt is a toothed belt that coordinates the timing of the combustion process by connecting the engine's crankshaft to its camshafts. An engine won't run if the timing belt is broken. Industrial-strength rubber with nylon-reinforced cables inside often makes up timing belts. A timing belt is put through a lot of stress and strain. Despite being long-lasting, it will eventually wear down naturally and must be replaced before it slips or breaks. The engine won't start if the timing belt snaps, and the cylinder head or other adjacent parts may also sustain damage in severe circumstances. SYMPTOMS OF A FAULTY TIMING BELT Although you might never take a look at your timing belt, it is vital to maintain your vehicle’s performance. You will be better prepared for a timing belt replacement if you recognize the symptoms. As your timing belt ages, these symptoms start to show up. It might split, succumb to dry rot, elongate, or even become out of alignment. Keeping your eyes and ears open is critical because most of the following issues will necessitate a replacement. Visible exhaust Engine misfiring Difficulty starting Vibrating or shaking engine “Slipping” while accelerating High-pitched noises when starting PREVENTATIVE MEASURES The best way to tell if your vehicle needs a new timing belt is to look at its mileage. There are warning indications for a bad timing belt that you shouldn't ignore, yet the majority of us don't even consider it until there is an issue. Most of the time, symptoms become apparent when trying to start your vehicle or if it starts performing strangely while running. Prevention is the best course of action because manufacturers specify a specific mileage for timing belt replacement. Have your vehicle evaluated if you think it needs a new timing belt. Generally, getting this belt checked every 30,000 miles is recommended.
Your vehicle’s suspension system helps keep your tires on the road. There are safety ramifications to consider when driving with old shocks or struts which cause a rough ride. It's not always simple to tell when shocks or struts need to be replaced either, as you get used to how your vehicle handles. Your shocks and struts can become worn or damaged and must be regularly checked to ensure your safety and comfort on the road. If your vehicle is not maintaining good contact with the road, your steering, handling, and even braking can all be negatively affected. Knowing what to look out for and what to do next is essential to maintaining your vehicle’s optimum performance. WHAT DO STRUTS AND SHOCKS DO? Shocks and struts are two separate components with different purposes. Both components aim to improve the ride and handling of your vehicle, but they do so in different ways. While struts are a significant structural element of the chassis and suspension system, shocks are discrete parts of the suspension system. The shock absorber's primary function is to regulate spring and suspension motion. Struts, on the other hand, support the spring, retain the tire in alignment, and provide structural support for the vehicle suspension. They also support a large portion of the side loads on the vehicle’s suspension. Struts consequently impact ride quality and handling as well as vehicle control, steering, braking, wheel alignment, and wear on other suspension components. SIGNS OF WORN SHOCKS AND STRUTS There are many indicators that your shocks or struts need repair. These problems can be minor at first and grow over time. These issues include: Steering problems Bumpy or even ride Braking problems Unusual tire wear Fluid leaks Bouncy tires Overall instability These issues could indicate that you need suspension repair. Depending on the severity of these issues, you may need to seek immediate professional assistance from our automotive repair shop, as this can be a safety issue. WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU CONTINUE TO DRIVE ON DAMAGED STRUTS AND SHOCKS? If you continue to drive on damaged or faulty struts or shocks, you could endanger yourself. Maintaining traction is crucial, especially when navigating obstacles or keeping up with highway traffic. Your suspension components will deteriorate over time. It might even deteriorate without your knowledge. Additionally, it may result in your tires and other components wearing down more quickly. This can result in your vehicle’s longevity being diminished as well. To avoid this, come to our automotive repair shop, where our expert technicians can provide you with quality shock and strut repair!
The braking system is an essential component of the vehicle by supplying the operator with control and granting safety. The vehicle and operator rely on the brakes to decelerate and stop completely while in traffic and when parking. The braking system is made of several different parts, and all are susceptible to failure due to normal wear and tear or misuse. Although wear and tear are normal on the braking system and other parts of the vehicle, there are ways to prolong the life of the brakes to ensure the driver gets the most out of their car, truck, or SUV. It is important to know and understand what the braking system is made of to take proper repair steps when brakes are declining in performance. WHAT ARE THE MAIN PARTS OF A BRAKING SYSTEM? The brakes on a vehicle are made up of several different parts, which include: Master Cylinder Brake Fluid Brake Lines and Hoses Brake Pads and Shoes Brake Rotors and Drum Each of these parts supports the decelerating or stopping process. The master cylinder is the most important element because it starts the braking process. The master cylinder is activated when the operator pushes on the brake pedal. It sends the proper message to the rest of the parts for controlled deceleration and stops. The brake fluid is an essential part of the brake system too. In fact, the vehicle wouldn't function properly without it. The braking fluid translates the force from the brake pedal into pressure to the brakes to then stop the vehicle's motion. This fluid is sent to all four wheels and pushed from the master cylinder through the brake lines and hoses. The brake pads and shoes supply the vehicle's wheels with friction by rubbing up against each wheel to slow the vehicle down. The brake rotors and drum are metal discs that are attached to the wheel and rotate as the wheels do. The brake pads essentially squeeze the rotors and the wheel to supply support with the stop. The parts of the braking system can decline over time, and the vehicle will communicate in different ways when there is a failure somewhere. Signs of Bad Brakes The early indicators that the brakes are on the way to complete failure can be a combination of all or some of the listed signals. When these signals occur, the necessary repairs and replacements should be made immediately to ensure traveling is done safely. Squeaking or squealing noises Grinding noises Wobbling or excessive vibrating when braking Leaking brake fluid Burning smells from overheated brakes Over time, parts like the rotors and pads must be replaced due to regular vehicle use. The brake parts are designed to last the vehicle with a system that can last a while but not forever. Here are some of the best ways to prolong the longevity of your brakes. 5 WAYS TO PROLONG THE BRAKES ON YOUR VEHICLE Allow plenty of following distance This step is the most common way to warrant early brake failure. An opposing driving style requires heavy use of brakes and braking too harshly. Drive Slow Driving too quickly may require abrupt stops due to traffic or hazards on the road. When a vehicle is being driven at fast speeds, and then the brakes are demanded to bring the vehicle to an immediate stop, this adds stress to the pads, rotors, and other brake components. Avoid Tapping the Brakes Unnecessarily When traffic is heavy, and the driving style of stop-and-go is inevitable, it is essential to avoid utilizing the brakes as much as possible. Leaving enough room between you and other vehicles and driving slowly allows the vehicle to roll slowly and stop when only necessary. Flush the Brake Fluid Just like the other fluid maintenance requirements, flushing the brake fluid and topping it off with some that are more fresh supplies the brake system with the support it needs to stop the best way possible and lubricate the parts needed for optimal performance. Inspect Brakes Regularly Brake inspections should be a part of the routine maintenance regimen for a vehicle. After fluids are topped off, and tires are rotated, the vehicle's brake pads, shoes, rotors, lines, and hoses should be examined to ensure that replacements aren't necessary and the driver is safe to return to the road. These processes should be considered when operating a vehicle. Each one supplies the vehicle and operator with safety and reassurance that the brakes and their parts are being used properly and taken care of when occurrences like failures do occur. Replacements should be performed by a trusted auto repair facility to ensure parts are top of the line and performances are done properly.
