Posted on 2/27/2023
When you look under the hood of your car, you may be overwhelmed by the number of parts you see. There are many parts, including your vehicle’s belts. One of them is the serpentine belt, also known as the drive belt. This rubbery, snake-like belt is in charge of transferring mechanical power from your engine to many parts throughout the vehicle. It powers the power steering pump, alternator, A/C compressor, water pump, and more. To prevent the failure of the serpentine belt, we recommend replacing it before it breaks or as recommended by your automaker. Below are some key signs of a failing serpentine belt: Heavy Steering - For vehicles with a hydraulic steering system, stiff and slow steering are common signs of a worn drive belt. When the belt gets loose, it may be more difficult to have control of the steering wheel. The power-assisted system may disengage altogether. Unusual Noises Coming From Under the Hood - You may be tempted to drown out any annoying sounds comi ... read more
Posted on 1/27/2023
Checking tire pressure is an important step in maintaining the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Under-inflated tires can lead to bad fuel efficiency, decreased handling, and increased risk of a blowout. Over-inflated tires can lead to uneven wear and decreased traction. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly check your tire pressure: Find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. This information can be found in the owner's manual, on a sticker inside the driver's side door, or on the inside of the fuel filler door. Buy a tire pressure gauge. These can be found at any auto parts store or gas station. Remove the valve cap from one tire and press the gauge onto the valve stem. The gauge will give a reading of the current pressure in that tire. Compare the reading to the recommended pressure for your vehicle. If the pressure is too low, adjust the air until it reaches the recommended level. If the pressure is too high, release some air fr ... read more