Category Archives: Seasonal & Travel Prep

Winter Driving in Spanish Fork: Why Every Snowstorm Feels Like a Traffic Nightmare

Winter Driving in Spanish Fork: Why Every Snowstorm Feels Like a Traffic Nightmare

Here in Spanish Fork, we’ve only had a handful of snowstorms this season, but does it feel like every storm creates a traffic nightmare? You’re not alone in thinking so! One possible reason is that we’ve had relatively mild winters the last few years, meaning many drivers have less experience handling snowy and icy roads. But beyond driving experience, vehicle maintenance plays a huge role in winter driving safety. Every day, we perform vehicle inspections and see areas where improvements can make a big difference in handling winter conditions. To help you stay safe in snow and traffic, here are the top safety items to check on your vehicle: 1. Tires – Your First Line of Defense ✔️ Check for adequate tread depth and even wear. Tires have a built-in wear bar indicator—once the tread reaches this level, it’s time for a replacement. ✔️ Ensure proper inflation. Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure ... read more

Why Your Vehicle Might Hesitate to Start in the Winter

Why Your Vehicle Might Hesitate to Start in the Winter

Why Your Vehicle Might Hesitate to Start in the Winter As temperatures drop, many drivers notice their vehicles struggle or hesitate to start, leaving them wondering, "What’s going on under the hood?" One of the main culprits during the winter months is your car's battery. Here’s why cold weather and battery performance don’t always go hand in hand—and what you can do about it. How Cold Weather Affects Your Battery Car batteries rely on chemical reactions to produce power, and cold weather slows these reactions down. This means your battery generates less energy to start the engine when you need it most. Additionally: Thickened Electrolyte: Low temperatures cause the electrolyte solution inside the battery to thicken, reducing ion movement and lowering the battery’s overall capacity. Increased Power Demand: Cold engines and thicker oil make starting your vehicle more demanding, requiring ... read more

Why Your AC Smells Musty and How to Fix It

Why Your AC Smells Musty and How to Fix It

  Why Your AC Smells Musty and How to Fix It   There’s nothing quite as refreshing as the cool breeze from your air conditioner on a hot day. But if that breeze carries a musty odor, it can quickly turn an enjoyable experience into an unpleasant one. If you’ve noticed a musty smell coming from your AC, you’re not alone. This common issue can be resolved with a bit of understanding and maintenance. Here’s what you need to know about why your AC might smell musty and how you can fix it, with insights from Consumer Reports.    Why Does My AC Smell Musty?   A musty odor from your air conditioner usually indicates the presence of mold or mildew. Here are some common reasons why this might happen, as noted by Consumer Reports:   1. Clogged Drain Line: The drain line is responsible for removing condensation from your AC unit. When it becomes clogged with dirt, dust, or mold, water can back up and create a moist environment where m ... read more

How Can a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Ensure a Safe Journey?

How Can a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Ensure a Safe Journey?

Planning a road trip is always exciting. The open road, the sense of adventure, and the freedom to explore new places. But before you hit the road, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition to avoid any unexpected issues that could turn your trip into a nightmare. That's where a pre-trip vehicle inspection comes in. The Importance of a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection You might wonder why a pre-trip inspection is so important. Simply put, it helps identify potential problems that could cause breakdowns or accidents. By addressing these issues beforehand, you ensure your vehicle is reliable and safe for the journey ahead. This proactive approach not only saves you from potential headaches but also gives you peace of mind, knowing your car is road-ready. Key Components of a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection A comprehensive pre-trip inspection covers several critical areas of your vehicle. Here's what you should focus on: Tires ... read more

Ensure Your Trailer Wheel Bearings Are Ready for Summer Travels

Ensure Your Trailer Wheel Bearings Are Ready for Summer Travels

 Prepping Your Trailer Wheel Bearings for Summer Travels As the summer season approaches, many of us are gearing up for long-awaited road trips and outdoor adventures with our trailers. One critical aspect that often gets overlooked in the pre-trip checklist is the condition of your trailer's wheel bearings. Ensuring your wheel bearings are in top shape is crucial for a smooth and safe journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your trailer wheel bearings for summer travels. Why Wheel Bearings Matter Wheel bearings are essential components that allow your trailer’s wheels to rotate with minimal friction. Over time, these bearings can wear out or become contaminated with dirt and moisture, leading to potential issues such as overheating, wheel lock-up, or even wheel separation. Regular maintenance can prevent these problems and keep your trailer running smoothly.  Step-by-Step Guide to Checking and Maintaining Wheel Bearings 1. Gather Your T ... read more