Owning a vehicle takes a lot of time and energy, especially when it comes to keeping it running properly and trying to save as much money as possible. Like it or not, it is costly to own a car; we’re not just talking about the money handed to the dealership for payment, but also money used for routine maintenance such as an oil change, new tires, a tire rotation, an alignment or a new paint job.
People all across the country are learning how to change their own oil. Do you want to save hundreds of dollars each year and feel satisfied after the job is complete? Of course! It will not be easy the first time you change your oil, but with practice, comes ease and success. Try to continue this process, before deciding to go back to the dealership or car service company. First, the tools you will need for the job include the following:
As a car owner you have two options: either neglect your vehicle or make it your pride and joy. We hope you choose the latter. Those who care for their vehicle will take every effort available to protect it from the harmful elements. The weather, from sunny or stormy, can damage a vehicle if proper protection steps are not taken.
Who doesn’t enjoy feeling the crisp, fresh morning air with the wind running freely through their hair? Convertibles have become a very desirable option for thousands of drivers across the country, especially those who live in warmer climates year round. Read the rest of this entry »
Routine maintenance is possibly one of the most important responsibilities of owning a car. In fact, by performing basic maintenance, owners can prolong the life of their vehicle. These are a few suggestions that can be done by most people from the comfort of their own home. Read the rest of this entry »
Driving 101: the most important aspect of driving is safety. Sure, we all understand the fundamental safety tips which include obeying the speed limit, using turn signals to change lanes, knowing your surroundings, and not multitasking – especially now since using your cell phone is illegal! But what about changing a tire? If you do not know how to change a tire, waiting for an auto club response vehicle is very unsafe. Anyone learning to drive should learn how to change a tire to stay safe when on the road. If changing a tire is new to you, follow these steps on your way to successfully changing your first tire: Read the rest of this entry »
Sometimes car trouble can sneak up on you. Simply relying on your check engine light is not enough to address numerous mechanic problems that could occur from normal driving. That’s why it’s important for all drivers to become more in tune with what you may see, hear, and smell to avoid being stranded.
Warning Lights – Naturally the first type of warning signs for engine trouble is naturally the amber warning lights. These lights are located on your dashboard and usually consist of oil pressure, oil level, and/or the check engine warning. The latter could be indicative a number of problems. By taking your vehicle to a mechanic immediately, they can diagnose what’s happening and hopefully figure out a quick solution. You can even purchase one of these diagnostic tools yourself for about $100 at your local auto parts retailer. Read the rest of this entry »
Technology is at the forefront of the new generation of automobiles. Consumers and regulators alike are calling for greater efficiency and lower emissions, and innovative utilization of technology will be the only way to deliver on those demands. This is precisely why automakers like Mazda are calling on the Environmental Protection Agency to reassess their policies involving fuel-saving stop-start technology.
The EPA currently currently inhibits automakers from fully testing stop-start technology and bringing it to market in the U.S. This feature is used outside of the U.S .to shut off the engine when the driver applies the brakes. When the driver releases the pressure on the brakes, the engine will start again. Read the rest of this entry »
Recent data shows that more and more people are buckling up. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belt usage has increased to 84 percent, a new record high. Each percentage point is said to represent 280 additional lives saved from these crucial safety device.
Seats belts have been widely used for over a decade, and since 1994 deaths stemming from unrestrained passengers have decreased dramatically. Many states now have laws enforcing seat belt use which has helped to improve how many users are using seat belts, and the fatality rate is also lower in those states. Seat belt usage also varies by region points out one dealer specializing in Pittsburgh used Mercedes-Benz, with the highest usage rates in Western states.
Seat belt use also varies by the type of vehicle as well. For example, a higher percentage of seat belt use is found among passengers of minivans and SUVs which does not surprise Pittsburgh Nissan dealers. Occupants of minivans and SUVs typically include families and those who purchase a car with child safety in mind.
Pioneered by Volvo, the three-point safety belt is by no means a new safety device. However, Boston Toyota believes that the seat belt will continues to be regarded as the most important automotive safety device. And with wider seat belt use, fatalities are decreasing which just goes to show how important this device is despite the range of more recent technologies and safety innovations. Read the rest of this entry »
Is an engine flush really good for your car? According to new reports, the popular service can actually cause damage to your engine, rather than helping it run better.
Many service facilities such as Jiffy Lube and EZ Lube promote the benefit of an “engine flush” or engine cleaning service. At many of these facilities it’s required about every two years, or at 30,000 miles estimates a used car dealer Tacoma. An engine flush is process that is supposed to extend the life of your vehicle’s engine. Over time, sludge builds up in the engine, and an engine flush is a process by which a chemical solvent is poured into your edge to flush out this sludge.
While many service facilities say that this service is manufacturer recommended, many manufacturers say that this is simply not true, and that an engine flush could actually do more harm than good. According to Mazda Service Saint Louis, Honda is one manufacturer that has issued warnings against an engine flush, as it may damage the inside of your engine. Honda has also go so far as to advise mechanics not to perform an engine flush at all. GM, Ford, and Nissan, have all issued similar warnings suggests Chicago Used Autos and recommendations against such a service.
The problem with engine flush procedures is that the process does break up harmful deposits, but it makes these deposits susceptible to clogging up other parts of the engine. Saint Louis Volkswagen Service says this process may cause entirely new problems, which could leave many drivers completely stranded.
Another warning that automakers have made clear is that damage that stems from an engine flush will not be covered by the vehicle’s warranty, as pointed out by a used car Lubbock dealer. Another service, fuel injector cleaning, also is a commonly offered service at Jiffy Lube and other service facilities. And while technicians say it’s recommended from the automaker, the service is actually an improper repair procedure according Honda and other manufacturers, as the procedure may potentially damage the injectors.
Some of these service facilities, such as Jiffy Lube, are working toward reducing these issues. However, debate will continue and problems have not gone away since these services remain profitable for these businesses. Read the rest of this entry »