The serpentine belt, also called the drive belt, is a belt on a car engine that works with the idler, tensioner, and pulleys inside the accessory drive belt system. It provides power for the air conditioning, alternator, power steering, and sometimes the cooling system water pump. The serpentine belt is a critical part of this […]
No matter what kind of car you have, your battery terminals can become corroded over time, making them poor conductors of electricity. While corrosion will not make your battery catch on fire it can weaken or cut off its connection to the engine, causing rough or failed starts. In the first of this two-part series, […]
Most people don’t know a lot about how an engine works, but assessing engine performance is an important step when considering the purchase of a used car. Thankfully, most gasoline cars have the same basic engine components. In this article, we’ll walk through the important factors to consider when researching the performance of a car, and […]
Dealing with winter weather today? Don’t let the snow put a damper on your day. Keep your car clear of snow and ice, and make your winter a little easier with these tips and tricks from our team. Defrost Your Windshield If you have to leave your car outside overnight, defrosting your windshield can be a […]
Wondering when to replace the belts under your hood? Common signs of wear can be hard to see if you’re not a trained mechanic. Here are a few mileage milestones to look for: Auto V-Belt Replacement V-belts act as a transmission belt. It connects to pulleys and transmits the force from the engine to the […]
An oil leak can pose serious dangers, risking extensive engine damage and compromised vehicle safety. As oil levels diminish due to leaks, vital engine components suffer accelerated wear, leading to potential breakdowns and costly repairs. Reduced lubrication hampers engine efficiency, diminishing fuel economy and escalating fuel consumption. Overheating becomes a looming threat, further amplifying the […]
Growing rust spots on your car can be a sign of brewing issues under the hood. Rust tends to eat away at the surrounding metal and, over time, can cause major cosmetic and mechanical damage to your vehicle. Oxidation is not only dangerous but it reduces the value of your car when it comes time […]
Wondering if it’s time to replace your shock absorbers? In this article, we’ll explain how a shock absorber is designed and some common symptoms of a failing shock absorber you should look out for. What Are Shock Absorbers? Shock absorbers keep your tires on the ground on bumpy roads so you can maintain control of […]
Similar to gas mileage, the wear and tear on your brakes will vary depending on where and how you drive. Disc brakes tend to wear out faster because they slow the vehicle by creating friction with the brake pads, and will eventually need to be replaced. Maintaining your disc brake rotors is critical to the […]
If you pull out of your driveway and notice a mysterious dark stain where your car was parked, it’s time to call your local mechanic. Chances are, your car’s oil pan has a leak. “Why is my oil pan leaking?” Great question. In this article we’ll explain how these leaks develop and the steps you […]