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Are Your Tires Feeling The Pressure

Why Checking Your Tire Pressure Is Important

Summer is a time for vacations and road trips, but before you hit the open road, make sure your car is ready for the journey. One of the most important things to check is your tire pressure.

Check your tire pressure before a long trip, because tires lose air over time. You need to maintain proper tire pressure year-round for safety and fuel efficiency. It’s not just about the distance you will be traveling, poor tire pressure can lead to accidents and result in poor fuel efficiency. Additionally, under-inflated tires can overheat and cause a blowout. This is especially dangerous at high speeds.

How to check your tire pressure

The best way to check your tire pressure is with a digital tire pressure gauge. You can find these at most auto parts stores. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

To check your tire pressure:

  1. Remove the cap from the tire valve.

  2. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve.

  3. Read the pressure on the gauge.

  4. If the pressure is low, use a air pump to add air to the tire until it reaches the recommend pressure according to the tires specifications.

  5. Replace the cap on the valve

Driving with a flat tire is dangerous for a number of reasons. When you drive on a flat tire, the car will pull to one side. This can make it difficult to control the car, and can lead to accidents. In addition, if you have a blowout while driving, you may lose control of the car and crash.

Check your spare tire before you go on a trip. If you have a flat tire and need to use your spare, you don't want to find out that it is also flat. You may think that small spare tire is just for getting you to the nearest service station, but it can actually be used for a long distance if you drive slowly. If you have a flat tire, replace it as soon as possible. Driving on a flat tire can damage the wheel and the tire. What was originally just a flat tire could cause you to need a a new rim.

How to change a tire?

Most people don't know how to change a tire, which is an essential skill for every driver. If you're lucky enough never to have a flat tire on the road, it's still wise to learn this simple process. It will take just minutes and could help save your life someday. But if you do get that dreaded call from your someone you know, here's what you need to do.

First, find a safe place to pull over and turn on your hazard lights. If you're on the shoulder of a busy highway, it's best to move your car as far off the road as possible. Once you're safely parked, engage your parking brake.

Next, locate your jack and spare tire. Your car's owner's manual will show you where these are located. Before you do anything else, loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire using the wrench. You don't need to remove them completely, just loosen them enough so they'll be easy to remove when the time comes.

Now it's time to jack up your car. Place the jack under the frame of your car (consult your owner's manual for the best location), and turn the crank to lift the tire off the ground. Once the tire is high enough, remove the lug nuts and pull the tire off.

Now it's time to put on the spare. Put the tire on the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible. Lower the car to the ground and finish tightening the lug nuts with the wrench.

Once the tire is changed, be sure to drive slowly and carefully to your destination. You don't want to damage your spare tire by driving too fast.

When should I get new tires?

Your tires are a major safety consideration for your vehicle. They help you steer and stop, keep the car on the road in wet weather, and provide a comfortable ride. Tires don't last forever, though. The rubber gets hard and brittle with age and the tread wears down, making it more difficult to stop and less effective in wet weather.

How often you need new tires depends on several factors, including: How you drive - Hard acceleration, braking, and cornering can all shorten the life of your tires

  • The roads you drive on - Paved roads are easier on tires than gravel or dirt roads

  • The climate you live in - Extreme heat or cold can also shorten tire life

  • How well you maintain your tires - Regularly checking and inflating your tires to the proper pressure can help extend their life

Did you know that underinflated tires can decrease your gas mileage? According to this study by the Office of ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

"Keeping automobile tires inflated to their recommended pressure saves fuel, according to an Oak Ridge National Laboratory study. A 2009 Toyota Corolla was tested with all four tires at the recommended pressure (black line), then at 75% of the recommended pressure (green line), and again at 50% of the recommended pressure (blue line). With all four tires at 75% of the recommended pressure, a vehicle’s fuel economy is about 2-3% lower. Vehicles with tires inflated at 50% of the recommended pressure used 5–10% more fuel. It should be noted that underinflated tires not only waste fuel but also pose serious safety risks."

When should I rotate my tires?

Your car's tires wear down unevenly, so it's important to rotate them every few thousand miles. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. However, this varies depending on the type of driving you do and the type of tire you have. Consult your owner's manual or a automotive technician for more specific

As you can see, there are many reasons you should maintain the proper tire pressure, know how to change a flat tire and when getting new tires is necessary. Tire maintenance should be an essential part of your vehicle ownership routine so that you don't find yourself stranded on the side of the road without a spare or any idea what to do next!

Are Your Tires Feeling The Pressure

Why Checking Your Tire Pressure Is Important

Summer is a time for vacations and road trips, but before you hit the open road, make sure your car is ready for the journey. One of the most important things to check is your tire pressure.

Check your tire pressure before a long trip, because tires lose air over time. You need to maintain proper tire pressure year-round for safety and fuel efficiency. It’s not just about the distance you will be traveling, poor tire pressure can lead to accidents and result in poor fuel efficiency. Additionally, under-inflated tires can overheat and cause a blowout. This is especially dangerous at high speeds.

How to check your tire pressure

The best way to check your tire pressure is with a digital tire pressure gauge. You can find these at most auto parts stores. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

To check your tire pressure:

  1. Remove the cap from the tire valve.

  2. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve.

  3. Read the pressure on the gauge.

  4. If the pressure is low, use a air pump to add air to the tire until it reaches the recommend pressure according to the tires specifications.

  5. Replace the cap on the valve

Driving with a flat tire is dangerous for a number of reasons. When you drive on a flat tire, the car will pull to one side. This can make it difficult to control the car, and can lead to accidents. In addition, if you have a blowout while driving, you may lose control of the car and crash.

Check your spare tire before you go on a trip. If you have a flat tire and need to use your spare, you don't want to find out that it is also flat. You may think that small spare tire is just for getting you to the nearest service station, but it can actually be used for a long distance if you drive slowly. If you have a flat tire, replace it as soon as possible. Driving on a flat tire can damage the wheel and the tire. What was originally just a flat tire could cause you to need a a new rim.

How to change a tire?

Most people don't know how to change a tire, which is an essential skill for every driver. If you're lucky enough never to have a flat tire on the road, it's still wise to learn this simple process. It will take just minutes and could help save your life someday. But if you do get that dreaded call from your someone you know, here's what you need to do.

First, find a safe place to pull over and turn on your hazard lights. If you're on the shoulder of a busy highway, it's best to move your car as far off the road as possible. Once you're safely parked, engage your parking brake.

Next, locate your jack and spare tire. Your car's owner's manual will show you where these are located. Before you do anything else, loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire using the wrench. You don't need to remove them completely, just loosen them enough so they'll be easy to remove when the time comes.

Now it's time to jack up your car. Place the jack under the frame of your car (consult your owner's manual for the best location), and turn the crank to lift the tire off the ground. Once the tire is high enough, remove the lug nuts and pull the tire off.

Now it's time to put on the spare. Put the tire on the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible. Lower the car to the ground and finish tightening the lug nuts with the wrench.

Once the tire is changed, be sure to drive slowly and carefully to your destination. You don't want to damage your spare tire by driving too fast.

When should I get new tires?

Your tires are a major safety consideration for your vehicle. They help you steer and stop, keep the car on the road in wet weather, and provide a comfortable ride. Tires don't last forever, though. The rubber gets hard and brittle with age and the tread wears down, making it more difficult to stop and less effective in wet weather.

How often you need new tires depends on several factors, including: How you drive - Hard acceleration, braking, and cornering can all shorten the life of your tires

  • The roads you drive on - Paved roads are easier on tires than gravel or dirt roads

  • The climate you live in - Extreme heat or cold can also shorten tire life

  • How well you maintain your tires - Regularly checking and inflating your tires to the proper pressure can help extend their life

Did you know that underinflated tires can decrease your gas mileage? According to this study by the Office of ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

"Keeping automobile tires inflated to their recommended pressure saves fuel, according to an Oak Ridge National Laboratory study. A 2009 Toyota Corolla was tested with all four tires at the recommended pressure (black line), then at 75% of the recommended pressure (green line), and again at 50% of the recommended pressure (blue line). With all four tires at 75% of the recommended pressure, a vehicle’s fuel economy is about 2-3% lower. Vehicles with tires inflated at 50% of the recommended pressure used 5–10% more fuel. It should be noted that underinflated tires not only waste fuel but also pose serious safety risks."

When should I rotate my tires?

Your car's tires wear down unevenly, so it's important to rotate them every few thousand miles. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. However, this varies depending on the type of driving you do and the type of tire you have. Consult your owner's manual or a automotive technician for more specific

As you can see, there are many reasons you should maintain the proper tire pressure, know how to change a flat tire and when getting new tires is necessary. Tire maintenance should be an essential part of your vehicle ownership routine so that you don't find yourself stranded on the side of the road without a spare or any idea what to do next!

You Can't Drive From the 3rd Row..

But Having One Sure Is Nice!

Owning a vehicle with a third row seat can be an incredibly desirable option for families and individuals alike. Popular vehicles such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Suburban, and Ford Explorer all offer great options when it comes to seating arrangements with up to 8 passengers or even more if you opt for bench seating.

 

Families love the convenience of being able to transport all their kids at once without having to cram them in a smaller vehicle, while individuals appreciate the flexibility that a third row seat provides them when it comes to hauling extra cargo in their trunk or taking friends along on road trips.


The biggest advantage that a third row seat offers is the sheer amount of space it provides for storage. You can simply fold down the third row seat and load up all your bags without fear of running out of space. This also makes grocery shopping easier as well since you can use the extra room for carrying larger items like cases of water or boxes of cereal with ease.

Another big benefit of owning a vehicle with a third row seat is that it adds another layer of comfort when traveling long distances. The extra legroom allows passengers to stretch out during those seemingly endless road trips without having anyone sitting immediately behind them kicking their seats—which is always welcome news! Additionally, many vehicles with third row seats come equipped with air conditioning vents in the rear so everyone will stay comfortable during those hot summer months too.


In short, investing in a cars with 3rd row seating provide practicality and convenience not just for large families but also those who value comfort and space in their cars. If you're looking for added flexibility and storage options then these might just be perfect choices for you!

Do You Need A Car With More Room?

It can be tough to find the perfect car that fits your needs and your budget. We carry a variety used cars including those with 3rd row seating. If we don't have it we can find it for you.

Contact us today so we can help you get in the car you've been looking for

Do We Really Need Car Touch Screens

What started out as a way to view your car’s rear view camera soon started displaying everything from your radio, temperature controls and everything in between. They’re in almost every new car on the market, and their prominence is only going to increase in the coming years. But do we really need car touch screens?

The answer, it turns out, is a resounding yes… and no.


On the one hand, car touch screens make it easier than ever to control your car’s various systems. You can change the music, turn on the AC, and even adjust your seats without ever taking your hands off the wheel.


On the other hand, car touch screens can be dangerously distracting. Especially if you are not that familiar with where  all the controls are. It can take your eyes off the road for vital seconds that could mean the difference between life and death.

While touchscreen displays can be distracting, many car manufacturers are trying to design them in a way that minimizes driver distraction. Some features that are being implemented include:


- touch screens that can disappear into the dashboard

- voice controls

- heads-up displays that project images onto the windshield

- gesture controls


Ultimately, it is up to the driver to decide if a car touch screen is right for them. If you can use it without taking your eyes off the road, then it can be a valuable asset. But if you find yourself constantly fumbling with the controls, it might be best to stick with good old-fashioned buttons and knobs.


How To Keep Your Car On The Road Longer

One of the best ways to keep your car on the road longer is to perform regular maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can avoid more serious and expensive problems down the road.

Spark Plugs And Wires

In addition to regular maintenance, changing your spark plugs and wires proactively help extend the life of your car. Over time, these parts can wear out and cause problems with your engine.

Cabin Filter and Air Filter

Change your cabin air filter and engine air filter. One affects the airflow in your car and the other affects the airflow to your engine. Both are important for keeping your car running smoothly.

Fuel Injectors & EGR Valves

Check your fuel injectors.  Although not part of a standard service maintenance schedule, they start to deteriorate. You'll have a check engine light come on. Another major component that a lot of people fail to talk about when they just tune ups is the EGR valve or the exhaust gas recirculation valve. These should be checked and replaced according to your manufacturer's recommendations.

A faulty EGR valve can cause  all sorts of engine performance problems, including a loss of power and fuel economy.

Tires

Most people recognize the importance of having good tires on your car for  traction, safety, and gas mileage. But did you know that the condition of your tires can also have an impact on your electrical components. It's possible to have vibrations from your tires that will loosen battery terminals and other electrical connections. So, not only do you want to have good tread on your tires for safety, but you also want to keep an eye on any loose wires  or terminals.


By following these simple tips, you can keep your car running smoothly for years to come.


What's That Noise - Your Safety Depends On It

Your Brakes Are Telling You Something!

Brakes are an essential part of every car, helping you to slow down and stop when needed. Generally, if your brakes are making a high-pitched squealing noise when you first step on them, it's an indication that the brake pads need to be replaced.

What causes that noise when you brake?

This can be due to a number of different factors - worn or dirty brake pads, issues with the rotors or calipers, or even something as simple as dirt or debris caught in the brakes.

If you're noticing a strange noise coming from your brakes, it's always best to have them checked out by a professional mechanic to ensure there isn't a bigger issue at play.

What are the different types of brakes, and how do they work?

There are many different types of brakes, each designed to perform a specific function and work in a particular way. Some common brake types include disc brakes, drum brakes, and vacuum brakes.

Disc brakes use a system of pads that press against a spinning metal disc to slow or stop the vehicle. Drum brakes consist of two brake shoes that press against the inside of a stationary metal drum. Vacuum brakes use suction to slow or stop a vehicle, drawing air from the atmosphere into chambers

How can you tell if your brakes need to be serviced or replaced?

If your car is making a noise when you brake, there's a good chance that something is wrong with your brakes. There are several things you can do to check your brakes and see if they need to be serviced or replaced.

Another way to tell if your brakes are in need of service is to look at your brake fluid levels. If the fluid is low or dark, it could be a sign that your brakes need to be flushed and refilled.

What does turning the Rotors mean?

If you've ever had your car's brakes serviced, you may have heard the term "turning the rotors." But what does that actually mean?

Rotors are the metal discs that your brake pads press against to slow or stop your car. When they become worn or dirty, they can cause a number of problems with braking performance. Turning the rotors means machining them down so that they are smooth and clean again, allowing for better braking. If they get worn down below a certain point, they will need to be replaced entirely by a mechanic.

 

As a driver, it's important to be aware of any issues with your car's brakes, as this can have serious implications for your safety on the road. Some common symptoms of worn or faulty brakes include a high-pitched squealing noise when braking, low or dark brake fluid levels, vibrations or shuddering when applying the brakes, and poor response time. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to have your brakes checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Don't Get Burned - Beat The Summer Heat

5 Tips To Keep Your Parked Car Cooler

Summertime is approaching fast, and with it, soaring temperatures. The last thing you want to do is climb into a scorching car and wait for it to cool down.

Did you know "When temperatures outside climb range from 80 degrees to 100 degrees, the internal temperature of your car can reach a scorching 130 to 172" (actionnews)

What Can You Do To Lower The Temperature In Your Car?

• Tip 1: Park in the Shade

If you have the option to park in the shade, take it! In many parking lots they will have trees or other natural shade options, Also try to park so that the sun is not shining on the driver's side. Even a few minutes in the shade can make a big difference.

• Tip 2: Use Your Visor And A Sunshade

You can find a sunshade for your windshield at most auto stores. Sunshades are especially useful if you have to park in the direct sun. They will help keep your car cooler and make it more comfortable to get in. Your windshield visor can also help keep the sun from entering your car

You could also fit a visor to your rear window as well as invest in window vent visors to keep individual passenger windows shaded.

Tip 3: Let Your Car Cool Before Getting In

Does your car have a remote starter? You turn on the air conditioning to full blast, shut all the doors and give your car a few minutes to cool down before driving. The other option is Leave the doors open for a minute to let most of the hot air out before getting in.

Tip 3: Cover Up Steering Wheel

No one wants to try to dive with a hot steering wheel. Consider placing a light-colored terry cloth towel over the steering wheel before you leave the car. This may reduce how much heat it absorbs

Tip 4: Cover Your Seats

This will protect your seats from the sun's rays and reduce how much heat they absorb. If you have leather seats, this is especially important as they can get uncomfortably hot in direct sunlight. You can buy special seat covers designed to reflect the sun's rays, or just use a light-colored towel or blanket

Tip 5: Tint You Windows

One of the best ways to keep your car cool is to tint your windows. This will reduce the amount of heat that comes into the car, making it more comfortable when you get in.

While you may or may not be able to do all of these things, any combination will help make your car more comfortable in the summer heat. Enjoy your summer and stay cool!

Can Your Car Wax Help Keep The Value Of Your Car

To Wax Or Not To Wax?

It's no secret that keeping your car looking good can help to maintain its value. But what many people don't know is that there are a lot of things you can do to keep your car looking great - and some of them are easy and inexpensive! One example is car waxing.

1. The benefits of car waxing

Waxing your car is one of the best ways to protect its finish and keep it looking new. It creates a barrier between your car’s paint and the elements, which can cause fading, scratching, and other damage. Waxing also makes it easier to clean your car, since the wax forms a protective layer that dirt and dust can

2. The costs of car waxing

The costs of car waxing vary depending on the type of wax and the amount you need. However, it is generally a very affordable way to protect your car’s finish.

3. How to wax your car properly

If you're looking to get the most out of your car wax, follow these steps:

  • Make sure your car is clean. The wax will adhere better to a clean surface, and it will be easier to remove any residual wax when you're finished.

  • Apply the wax in a thin layer. Too much wax can actually end up doing more harm than good, since it can obscure your car's paint job and make it difficult to polish later on.

  • Work in small sections. It's best to apply the wax using a circular motion, and don't forget the edges!

  • Buff off the wax with a soft cloth. Be sure to remove

4. What are the types of waxes available?

There are a few different types of car waxes on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks:

  • Spray-On Waxes: These waxes are easy to apply and usually don’t require any buffing. However, they don’t offer as much protection as other types of waxes and can be prone to fading.

  • Paste Waxes: More durable than spray-on waxes, and they usually provide better protection against scratches and fading. However, they can be difficult to apply and require a lot of elbow grease.

  • Liquid Waxes: Liquid waxes are the most popular type of car wax. They’re easy to apply, and most come with a buffing cloth.

  • Carnauba Wax: Carnauba wax is the most durable type of car wax and offers the best protection against scratches and fading. It’s also the most expensive type of wax.

  • Ceramic Wax: A newer type of car wax that’s said to offer even better protection than Carnauba wax. However, it’s also more expensive.

4. How to care for your car's finish without using any products at all

  • If you're not interested in using car wax, there are a few other things you can do to protect your car's finish and keep it looking new:

  • Park in the shade. The sun can cause your car's paint to fade over time.

  • Wash your car regularly. Dirt and dust can scratch your car's paintjob

If you're still unsure about whether or not car waxing is worth the investment, it might be helpful to consult a professional. They can help determine if waxing your car will be an effective way to keep its value and maintain its shine over time.

 

 

Front Wheel Drive VS. AWD What is the Difference

What is the difference between front wheel drive and all wheel drive?

When you are looking for a new car, one of the decisions you have to make is whether to get a front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. Both options have their pros and cons, so which one should you choose? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each option:

How Do Front Wheel Drives Cars Work

Front wheel drive cars are powered by the front wheels, while the back wheels simply rotate and provide traction. This is different from rear wheel drive cars, which are powered by the back wheels. Front wheel drive cars are more stable and easier to control than rear wheel drive cars, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

Another way to explain it would be to say that a front wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the front wheels, while a rear wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the back wheels.

What are the pros of front wheel drive vehicles

  • Front wheel drive vehicles are better for fuel economy because only the front wheels are used to power the car. This means that less power is needed, and you will save on gas money.

  • Rear wheel drive vehicles are better for getting through tough terrain and handling curves. The weight of the engine is at the back of the car, which gives it more stability when driving on winding roads or in slippery conditions.

What are the cons of front wheel drive vehicles

Front wheel drive vehicles can sometimes be less stable than all wheel drive vehicles, especially when cornering or braking. This is because the weight of the engine is pushing down on the front wheels, which can cause them to lose traction. Additionally, front wheel drive vehicles can be more difficult to control in icy or snowy conditions.

How does all wheel drive work?

All wheel drive is a system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This can help improve traction and handling in slippery or challenging conditions. AWD systems vary in complexity, with some relying on sensors to detect when the car needs more traction and distributing power accordingly. Others use a center differential to split the power between the front and rear wheels.

Regardless of the system in use, all wheel drive can provide a safer and more sure-footed driving experience. If you're looking for a car that can handle any condition, consider an all wheel drive model.

What are the pros of all wheel drive vehicles

All wheel drive vehicles are better in slippery conditions because all four wheels are used to power the car. This gives you more traction and prevents you from slipping and sliding. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, an AWD car is a better option. They also provide more stability and control than FWD cars when driving on slick surfaces.

What are the con's of an all wheel drive car?

All wheel drive cars can be more expensive than front wheel drive cars. They also require more maintenance, as all of the components need to be working properly in order to distribute power evenly. AWD cars can also be less fuel-efficient than FWD cars, and they take up more space on the road.

So Which Type Of Car Car Should I Get?

That’s a question that can only be answered by you. Consider the pros and cons of both front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles to see which option would be best for your needs. If you live in an area with lots of icy or snowy conditions, an all wheel drive vehicle might be a better option. But if you live in a warmer climate and don’t need the extra traction, a front wheel drive vehicle could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

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