Tag Archives: automotive terms

Understanding Your Alignment Readings

Understanding Your Alignment Readings

Understanding Your Alignment Readings When your shop hands you an alignment printout, do you really know what all those numbers and terms mean—or do you just notice the Christmas colors of red and green? Most of us understand that red means bad and green means good, but what exactly do those colors represent? Let’s break down the three main terms you’ll see on your alignment report: caster, camber, and toe.Caster   Caster measures how far forward or backward the steering axis tilts compared to the vertical axis of the wheel. It affects steering stability, steering effort, and how well your vehicle tracks straight down the road. Positive caster helps keep your steering wheel centered and improves high-speed stability. Negative caster makes steering feel lighter but ... read more

Understanding the Popping in Your Honda Pilot’s CV Axle: Causes and Solutions

Understanding the Popping in Your Honda Pilot’s CV Axle: Causes and Solutions

If you’ve noticed a popping or clicking sound when driving your Honda Pilot, especially while turning or accelerating, it could be a sign of an issue with your CV (constant velocity) axle. In SUVs like the Pilot, CV axles are critical components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels while also allowing flexibility for the suspension’s up-and-down motion. Because Honda Pilots are larger, family-friendly vehicles often used for road trips, commuting, and sometimes towing, their CV axles endure significant stress. Over time, wear and tear can cause these parts to develop issues that present as popping or clicking noises. Addressing the problem early can prevent further damage and keep your Pilot safe and reliable. Common Causes of CV Axle Popping in a Honda Pilot 1. Worn or Damaged CV Joints One of the most common reasons Honda Pilot owners hear popping sounds ... read more

Understanding Tire Sizes: What Do Those Numbers Mean?

Understanding Tire Sizes: What Do Those Numbers Mean?

Understanding Tire Sizes: What Do Those Numbers Mean? If you’ve ever looked at the sidewall of your tire, you’ve probably noticed a series of numbers and letters, like 225/60R16. At first glance, it can seem like a secret code—but each number and letter tells you something important about your tire’s size, construction, and performance. Understanding these details can help you make smarter decisions when replacing your tires or upgrading your wheels. Breaking Down a Tire Size Let’s take the example 225/60R16: 1. Tire Width – 225 The first number refers to the width of the tire in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. In this case, the t ... read more

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CV Axle Popping in Your 2018 Honda Odyssey: What It Means and How to Fix It

CV Axle Popping in Your 2018 Honda Odyssey: What It Means and How to Fix It

If you're hearing a popping or clicking noise when turning or accelerating in your 2018 Honda Odyssey, it could be a sign of trouble with your CV (constant velocity) axle. This component plays a vital role in delivering power from the transmission to your front wheels while allowing for the movement of the suspension—something especially important in a front-wheel-drive vehicle like the Odyssey. Common Causes of CV Axle Popping in a Honda Odyssey One of the most common reasons for that popping noise is a worn or damaged CV joint. The CV joint in your Odyssey is designed to bend and rotate while maintaining consistent power delivery. It’s protected by a rubber boot filled with grease. Over time, this boot can crack or tear, allowing dirt and moisture to get in and grease to leak out. When that happens, the joint wears down—and that’s when you start to hear clicking or popping sounds, especially during sharp t ... read more

The Importance of a Honda Valve Adjustment: What You Need to Know

Your Honda’s engine is a finely tuned machine and keeping it running smoothly requires regular maintenance. One often-overlooked service that plays a vital role in engine performance and longevity is a valve adjustment. Honda vehicles typically Honda Pilots and Odyssey 2018 and older, especially models with mechanical (non-hydraulic) valve lifters, require periodic valve adjustments to maintain proper engine function. In this blog, we’ll explain what a valve adjustment is, the signs that your Honda may need one, and why this service is essential for your vehicle’s health. What Is a Valve Adjustment? A valve adjustment is a precise process where a technician adjusts the clearance between the valve stem and the rocker arm or camshaft. This gap is critical because it allows the valves to open and cl ... read more