Most drivers have probably never given much thought to the physics of driving. However, the law of physics plays an important role in many functions of driving, including how your vehicle safely handles curves and turns. A key component in this process is part of the axle assembly, your vehicle’s differential. In this month’s blog post, we feature the differential, its role, and what happens when there may be a problem with the differential. (more…)
If you look under your vehicle’s hood, you will see various belts and hoses that are part of your engine. But what do these hoses and belts do for your vehicle? In this month’s blog post, we look at the basic function of belts and hoses and easy ways to keep them maintained. (more…)
With the cooler temps on the rise, you may notice that your tires visually appear to be somewhat deflated, or your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) displays the tire pressure warning light. Before you panic, keep in mind that it is normal for air pressure within your tires to drop when the temperatures goes down. This is especially noticeable in the early fall when the warm daytime temperatures change to much cooler temperatures at night. In this blog, we review important considerations for keeping your tires inflated at factory values to ensure safe driving. (more…)
You don’t have to be a professional mechanic to know that something may be wrong with your vehicle. If you stay alert to vehicle messages and use your senses while driving, in many cases you can identify when there is a problem. In this months’ blog, we share how you can use your four key senses of sight, smell, touch, and hearing to easily spot a developing issue in yourvehicle. (more…)
If you spend any amount of time in your vehicle, then you are probably aware of the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations when the vehicle is working properly. We are all familiar with the normal signs of a highly functioning vehicle. The trick to keeping your vehicle in good condition is to be alert to the unusual signs that may lead to problems with your vehicle’s engine. One of those signs that drivers should be alerted to is the “knocking sound” that may come from the engine. In this month’s blog, we discuss the common causes of engine knocking, and ways to address causes of knocking to avoid serious engine damage. (more…)