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Category Archives: Car Care & DIY Tips

Is Your Car Ready for Winter? A Simple Winter-Ready Checklist

Is Your Car Ready for Winter? A Simple Winter-Ready Checklist

Winter has a way of showing up quickly. One day you're enjoying mild fall weather, and the next you're scraping ice off your windshield and wondering if your car is ready for the cold. Cold temperatures can be hard on your vehicle, especially when the battery, tires, fluids, and other components are already showing signs of wear. Before winter weather arrives, take a few minutes to make sure your vehicle is ready for the colder months ahead. 1. Check Your Battery Cold weather can be tough on your battery. A battery that seems fine on a warm fall morning may struggle when temperatures drop. If your vehicle has been slow to start, you're hearing clicking when you turn the key, or your battery is getting older, it's a good idea to have it tested before winter. A battery check is much easier in the shop than sitting in a cold parking lot waiting for a jump! 2. Check Your Tires Your tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle when roads are wet, icy, or s ... read more

When Should You Replace Your Tires? Signs It’s Time for New Tires

When Should You Replace Your Tires? Signs It’s Time for New Tires

Your tires are one of the most important safety components on your vehicle. They’re your only contact with the road, helping your car, truck, or SUV accelerate, stop, and maintain control—especially when roads are wet or slippery. But how do you know when it’s time for new tires? Tire replacement isn't based on mileage alone. Tread depth, tire age, visible damage, uneven wear, and changes in vehicle handling can all be signs that your tires need to be replaced. Here are some of the most important things to look for. 1. Your Tire Tread Is Worn Down One of the most obvious reasons to replace a tire is worn tread. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tires should be replaced when the tread reaches 2/32 of an inch. Tires have built-in treadwear indicators, also called wear bars, located in the grooves of the tread. When the tread is worn level with these indicators, the tire has reached its mi ... read more

Is Your Vehicle Ready to Evacuate? What to Keep in Your Car During Wildfire Season

Is Your Vehicle Ready to Evacuate? What to Keep in Your Car During Wildfire Season

Is Your Vehicle Ready to Evacuate? What to Keep in Your Car During Wildfire Season With local wildfires affecting our communities and many of our neighbors facing evacuation orders, now is the time to make sure your vehicle is ready to go at a moment's notice. During an emergency, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your car will start, has enough fuel, or contains the supplies you need to stay safe. Preparing your vehicle ahead of time can help reduce stress and give you peace of mind if you ever need to leave your home quickly. Keep Your Fuel Tank Full One of the simplest ways to prepare for an evacuation is to keep your gas tank at least half full. During emergencies, gas stations may experience long lines, power outages, or fuel shortages. A full tank gives you more options if road closures force you to take a longer route. Stay Current on Vehicle Maintenance An evacuation is not the time to discover your batt ... read more

Things to Consider with Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Things to Consider with Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Things to Consider with Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs) As hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, more drivers are making the switch for good reason—lower emissions, improved fuel savings, and advanced technology. While these vehicles are often marketed as “low maintenance,” they still require consistent care to keep them performing at their best. If you own—or are considering—a hybrid or EV, here are the key things you should know to protect your investment and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. Understanding Battery Health The battery is the most important (and expensive) component in a hybrid or EV. Unlike a traditional 12-volt battery, these high-voltage battery packs are designed to last many years—but proper care is essential. When customers are considering making the switch, we often ask: How much fuel savings would it take to justify a $5,000–$10,000 battery replacement down the roa ... read more

TPMS Sensors: Why Your Tire Pressure Changes With the Temperature

TPMS Sensors: Why Your Tire Pressure Changes With the Temperature

TPMS Sensors: Why Your Tire Pressure Changes With the Temperature If you’ve ever noticed your tire pressure light coming on when the weather changes, or its on in the mornings and off by afternoon, you’re not alone. Many drivers think something is wrong with their tires, but in most cases, it’s simply due to temperature changes. Your vehicle’s TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is designed to alert you when tire pressure gets too low, and colder or warmer weather can cause pressure to fluctuate more than you might expect. What Is a TPMS Sensor? Your vehicle’s TPMS system monitors the air pressure in each tire. Most modern vehicles have a sensor inside each wheel that sends pressure readings to your car’s computer. If the pressure drops below the recommended level, the TPMS warning light will turn on to let you know. This system helps improve safety, fuel economy, and tire life by making sure ... read more