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Posts Tagged ‘El Paso oil change’

Tire Maintenance Tips That Keep You Safe

Tuesday, March 15th, 2011

Keep You Safe

It is important to regularly check and maintain the tires on your vehicle.

Most people regularly wash and clean their cars and trucks. Yet many of these same people fail to regularly check the tire pressure. This is a big mistake.

For safety purposes, it’s important that your car or truck has a good set of tires. That’s because your tires are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road. Old, worn out tires become a safety issue, especially during instances of extreme weather.

To protect your car, you should regularly follow the tire maintenance tips below. These tips will help extend the life of your tires and more importantly, keep you safe.

Tire Tip #1: Check Your Tire Pressure

You should keep a tire pressure gauge inside your car or truck. Always make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. You can typically find the correct psi in your owner’s manual or on the sides of the tires.

Having the right tire pressure will:

Extend the life of your tires
Give you better fuel efficiency
Keep you safe.

Tire Tip #2: Rotate Your Tires

You should regularly rotate the front and back tires on your vehicle. This will help to ensure proper wear of your tires. That way, you’re not buying tires too often. You should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

Tire Tip #3: Buy Tires with the Proper Rating

When purchasing tires, you should buy sets the meet the ratings for your vehicle. This is very important for safety purposes. You want to buy a tire that was engineered for your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual to see what set of tires you should buy.

Tire Tip #4: Don’t Carry Too Much

If you have a pickup truck, be sure to know the load capacity for your vehicle. Heavy loads can cause excessive wear and tear to your tires. Overstressed tires could cause a blow out, which is a major safety issue. Consult your owner’s manual for load limits.

Summary

Following these four tips will help to keep you safe and extend the life of your tires. As a rule of thumb, check your tire pressure every time you get an Albuquerque oil change or an El Paso oil change. Most importantly, be sure to read your owner’s manual about your tires.

Tags: Albuquerque Oil change, El Paso oil change, tire maintenance tips, Tire Pressure, tire rotation
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Which Repairs Mean It’s Time For A New Car

Monday, December 27th, 2010

Paying off a car is one of the best feelings in the world. Once that happens, many people want to keep that car for as long as possible. However, there comes a certain point when it might not be worth it to keep that current car. There are several kinds of repairs that if needed, could mean buying a new (or new to you) car is a better option. When considering these repairs, take into account how much it will cost and other factors like:

The age of the car
The number of miles it has
Other repair issues present

This will help you determine the best course of action.

Engine Repairs

Any repairs having to do with the car engine are generally the most costly. If you have problems with your engine, it is possible to spend thousands of dollars and could even need a new one. If it is possible, try to find a gently used engine from a salvage yard to help lower the costs associated with engine repair. Engine costs are generally between $500 to $2,000 and could reach up to $5,000 for a new engine.

Transmission Problems

Once the transmission starts failing, it can mean expensive repairs which range between $1,800 and $3,600. It is possible to only need a transmission fluid flush, which is about $150, however, if this does not fix the problem, it could be time for a whole new transmission and at that point, it might be time to consider a new car.

Belt-related Issues

Every car has three belts:

Timing Belt
Fan Belt
Serpentine Belt

Each of these belts has a different purpose and when replaced before problems happen, are generally reasonably prices. However, if one of these belts snaps, it could cause serious damage to your car.

A broken timing belt in an engine most likely means it is time for a new engine. A broken fan belt can cause the engine to overhead and most likely also resulting in a new engine. The serpentine belt controls several internal components like the alternator, water pump, A/C compressor, and other depending on your particular make and model. Having a few of these stop working as a result of a broken serpentine belt can add up quickly.

Catalytic Converters

All cars made after 1975 require a catalytic converter to control emissions. Most last for about 100,000 miles and are almost never covered under warranties. They are also one of the most expensive single parts on a car. The part alone can range from $1,000 to $5,000 and some cars ever require more than one. Once the catalytic converter stops working, it will restrict the flow of exhaust and choke the engine, causing permanent damage.

If you have more questions about how to proceed with your repairs, ask your mechanic next time you’re getting an El Paso oil change or a Las Cruces car tune up.

Tags: car repairs, El Paso oil change, Las Cruces car tune up, time for new car
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Understanding The Check Engine Light

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

It is bound to happen at some point. You’re driving down the road and a little light starts flashing near your speedometer. It’s your “Check Engine Light.”

The check engine light is a warning indicator that works with your car or truck’s computer. If your check engine light goes off, it means that a part or component in your vehicle’s emission system is not properly working.

The items below are some of the most common check engine light problems.

The Light Keeps Blinking: If the check engine light on your car or truck keeps blinking, this is a serious problem. This means there is a big problem with your car or truck’s emission system. Immediately pull your vehicle over and have it towed to a mechanic.

The Light Stays On: If the check engine light stays on and doesn’t blink, there is not an immediate threat to your vehicle. Your vehicle will continue to operate. However, you should take your car or truck to a mechanic as soon as you can to see what is wrong. If the check engine light stays on, it means there is a problem with the emissions system. A diagnostic test from a mechanic will help answer the problem.

The Light Is On Sometimes and Sometimes Off: If your check engine light remains sometimes on and sometimes off, take the time to see if your vehicle runs differently when the light is on. If you notice a change in performance when the light is on, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can.

These are some of the most common check engine light signals. Always be sure to check your owner’s manual for more information about any diagnostic lights on your car or truck. If you have a check engine light on in your car or truck, be sure to have it checked out during your next Las Cruces car tune up or your next El Paso oil change.

Tags: check engine light codes, check engine light tips, El Paso oil change, Las Cruces car tune up, understanding check engine light
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The Best Cell Phone Accessories To Keep You Safe While Driving

Thursday, December 9th, 2010

bluetooth= With the increased attention cell phone use in cars is receiving, it is important to be aware of the alternatives that exist for safer driving. Many hands-free accessories exist to make your driving experience safer without sacrificing the convenience and necessity of using your cell phone. Here are some of the best options.

Integrated Bluetooth Calling: This is an option can come factory-installed on some vehicles. There are also aftermarket kits that exist so it can be installed on any car. After your phone is paired with the device, calling is done through a button mounted on the steering wheel and the audio is picked up through a microphone and then broadcast through the stereo system. This offers one of the best hands-free calling experiences while driving. Also, aftermarket kits are reasonably priced between $50 and $200.

Bluetooth Earpieces: Many options exist for Bluetooth earpieces in various price ranges. They work in the same way as an integrated car system, but the audio is broadcast through the earpiece into the user’s ear. They also have a portability factor that integrated systems lack. Depending upon the amount of money you are willing to spend, the experience can vary. They are generally priced between $25 for a basic model, up to $200 for a high end one.

Portable Bluetooth Speakers: If you are uncomfortable trying to install an aftermarket Bluetooth calling system in your car and also find Bluetooth earpieces uncomfortable, this could be a good option. Bluetooth speakers work exactly like Bluetooth earpieces, except they usually include a clip so they can be mounted on the sun visor. The audio is broadcast through the speaker and also includes an integrated microphone. They are priced between $50 and $150.

Corded Headsets: For anyone not comfortable using Bluetooth devices, a simple corded headset can provide an easier alternative. It is important to note that some cell phone have a 2.5 mm headset jack. The standard for all other devices is 3.5 mm and most recent cell phones use this size. However, they are not interchangeable. A corded headset costs between $5 and $20.

These options exist to make it safer for you to drive while using a cell phone. If you have more questions about how these can benefit you, ask your mechanic next time you’re getting an El Paso oil change or a Sacramento brake check.

Tags: Bluetooth, Cell Phones, El Paso oil change, Hands-Free, Sacramento brake check, Safe Driving
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How to Prepare Your Car for Colder Weather

Friday, October 15th, 2010

The coldest time of the year is just around the corner. Are you excited? Your car probably isn’t too thrilled. We went ahead and put together a few easy tips so you can make sure that your car doesn’t stop running and leave you stuck in the cold this winter.

Winter Check Up – The easiest way to make sure your car is ready for the season is to take it in to be looked at before the temperature starts dropping. Right around the middle of fall is a great time to go get your filters checked, your fluids checked, an El Paso oil change, and of course make sure that heater works properly.
Battery – Car batteries can be the thing people overlook until they need a new one. It is also something that is fairly easy to check on with a low cost battery tester that you can stick in your cigarette lighter.
Tires – When the temperature starts dropping, your tires will lose air pressure so make sure to check the levels before it gets really cold. If your car has an ABS (anti-lock brakes system) make sure to get a Las Cruces brake check and ensure they work properly. A good investment can also be some all terrain tires to handle the slick streets if you don’t already own any.
Car Cold Weather Kit – Many people already carry an emergency kit in their car incase something happens while they are driving. Be sure to have an ice scraper, blankets, extra water-proof clothes, flashlights, kitty liter for traction in the snow, and a shovel if you have to dig your car free.

These are a few helpful tips to make sure your car is prepared for those cold winter months. Be prepared and be safe.

Tags: El Paso oil change, Las Cruces Brake Check
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What’s The Difference Between Synthetic Oil And Conventional Oil?

Thursday, September 30th, 2010

When we get our vehicle’s oil changed, we sometimes forget to ask what type of oil they are putting in our vehicle’s engine.

There are two types – synthetic oil and conventional/regular oil. Conventional oil is the good old fashion oil that is processed from crude oil out of the ground. Synthetic oil was developed in the 1960s. It is a chemically modified oil that was developed in a lab.

There are two types of synthetic oil – base stocks and semi-synthetic oil. Base stock oils are man-made oils that are purely synthetic. Semi-synthetic oil uses a blend of mineral oil and synthetic oil.

So, which is better synthetic oil or conventional oil?

You should put your money on synthetic oil for the following reasons:

Synthetic oil operates better during any driving conditions
Synthetic oil promotes longer engine life
Synthetic oil reduces evaporative loss
Synthetic oil circulates better than convention oil

While synthetic oil is great, there are some who think conventional oil works just as well. It’s a great topic to discuss with your mechanic while getting a Las Cruces oil change or an El Paso oil change.

Tags: El Paso oil change, Las Cruces oil change
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Automotive Smartphone Apps That Will Keep Your Car Going

Monday, September 20th, 2010

With more and more people buying smartphones, people can now take better care of their automobiles.

With a smartphone, you can now keep track of your oil changes, brake repairs and other maintenance issues. With an iPhone, BlackBerry, or Android phone, you’ll now know when it’s time for an El Paso oil change or a Santa Fe brake check.

Below are some of the popular smartphone apps that will help you take better care of your car.

Gas Buddy: With this app for the iPhone, you can find the best gas prices. All you have to do is enter your ZIP code or let the app locate your current location. This app costs $2.99.
aCar: With this app for Android phones, you can keep track of your car’s maintenance schedule. It also keeps track of vehicle information such as license plate number.
Car Minder Plus: With this app for the iPhone, you can log maintenance information, so you always know when to get your vehicle’s oil changed. This app costs $2.99.

These are just a few apps to get you started. Check the app store on your smartphone for other apps. There are plenty out there. Whether it’s for parking, driving lessons or finding a car wash, there is an app for you.

What type of apps do you use to help with car maintenance issues? Which phone has the best automotive apps – the iPhone, BlackBerry or Android phones?

Tags: automotive smartphone apps, El Paso oil change, Santa Fe Brake Check
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How To Check Your Vehicle’s Oil

Wednesday, April 14th, 2010

Checking your vehicle’s oil is a quick and easy process that is important to keeping your vehicle well maintained. Running low on oil or simply driving on old oil can be devastating to your engine and lead to some major repair bills later down the line.

Oil is one of the things that is checked during a El Paso car tune up, but here’s how to quickly check your oil on your own. Note that you will need to have your car turned off and wait till the engine is cool before you begin.

Pop open the hood and look for the brightly colored handle labeled “engine oil” or something similar.

Pull on the handle to remove the metal rod (called a dipstick) and thoroughly clean it with a rag or towel.

Now re-insert the dipstick and then remove it once again to check the oil level.

You should see how far up the oil was on the dipstick when fully inserted. There should be a line on the dipstick marked full and you want the oil to be as close to that line as possible. If it’s too far below that you will need to top off your oil.

You will also want to look at the color of the oil. If it appears really dark brown or black, it’s time for a El Paso oil change. If it’s light brown it should be okay for awhile.

Tags: El Paso Car Tune Up, El Paso oil change
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Changing Your Oil Requires the Proper Tools

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010

When trying to do their own El Paso oil change, many people try to use whatever tools they have lying around to make it happen. However, trying to replace your filter with a screwdriver is a waste of time as well as something that can potentially damage your vehicle.

To do an Albuquerque oil change the right way, you’ll want to get a hold of an oil filter wrench. You can get them online for under $10 and the amount of time and frustration you will save yourself will make it a worthwhile purchase almost immediately.

An oil filter wrench is specifically designed to help you remove the filter and save you considerable time during your next oil change. They are generally universal so even if you have more than one car, you can still use it. Buy one now and you’ll thank us later.

Tags: Albuquerque Oil change, El Paso oil change
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