Tips

Most vehicles have a recirculation button with the AC controls in their cars. But many of us are unsure when to use it.  Well, the easy answer is to use it in the summer and turn it off in the winter.  The recirculation button simply takes the air from inside the car and recirculates it in the cabin instead of pulling fresh air from outside. On those days when it is miserably outside, you do not recirculate the cooler air in the cabin, than your AC system is pulling hot air from outside and trying to cool it. Using the recirculation feature will get your car cooler and will decrease the wear and tear on your AC system. 

- Side note, if your car has been baking in the sun, its better to roll the windows down and turn recirculate off for the first minute or so to get rid of the super hot air inside the car before turning the recirculate on. 

 Common Vehicle AC Problems 

 There are numerous variables that could cause your AC to break down or simply not work as well as it once did. These include:

Clogged or Leaking Condenser
Improper Refrigerant Level
Refrigerant Cross-Contamination
Unresponsive Pressure Switches
Damaged Compressor
Clutch Problems
Broken Belt
Moisture and Debris-Ridden Filters
Leaks in the AC System 

ALIGNMENT

While alignment issues are uncomfortable, they also cause big problems for your tires. Uneven wear can shorten your tires’ lifespan and even cause a dangerous blowout while you’re driving. If your vehicle is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it’s imperative that you get your alignment checked out immediately: 

Uneven or Cupped Tire Wear
Cupped Wear: Also known as tire scalloping, this wear pattern appears as dips around the edge of your tire tread.
Vehicle and Floorboard Vibrations at Highway Speeds
Pulling To One Side When Driving Straight
Diminished Handling Capability
Steering Wheel Off-Centered While Driving 

Battery Tip

Common ways to tell that your battery is about to go out include:

Diminished Electric Functions (Slower power windows, dimmed headlights, etc.)
Slower Engine Crank
Clicking Noise When Turning the Key
Old Age
Corroded Terminals 

Don’t End Up Stranded, Service Your Battery, Starter, or Alternator Today!

Warning signs & common brake problems: 

There are a variety of symptoms that will tell you something is going awry with your brakes, including:

A squealing or squeaking sound
Grinding when you come to a stop
Shaking steering column
Spongy brake pedal
Your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake
Your car wobbles or vibrates when driving at highway speeds 

Engine maintenance typically includes the following to help prolong the life of your engine:
 

Spark Plug Replacement
Spark Plug Wire Inspection
A Thorough Inspection of All Engine Components
Air and Fuel Filter Replacement Where Necessary 

How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires? 

As a general rule of thumb, we recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 - 6,000 miles (although your driving style and vehicle type should also be taken into consideration). Rotating front and rear tires helps to ensure your tread wears down more evenly, optimizing your tire performance and extending their life. 

Recommend getting an automatic transmission fluid exchange every 50,000 miles. 

Keep watch for our blog of tips coming soon.