5 Common Power Steering Problems
January 16th, 2020
In order to reduce the need for effort from the driver to steer the vehicle, engines incorporate a system referred to as “power steering.” This is a hydraulic system which uses power steering fluid to build pressure which is then used to change the direction of the wheels. This means you don’t need to arm wrestle with your steering wheel when trying to take a turn.
When your car’s power steering system begins to fail — or the fluid needs to be replaced — it can make it much harder to control around curves and corners. There are a few problems which can cause this issue. Here are some common problems associated with the failure of your power steering system.
Leaking Power Steering Fluid & ...[more]
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auto repair
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Auto Repair 101
Ways to Proactively Protect Your Engine
January 14th, 2020
We get in our car, turn the key, and head out to wherever we're going. Most of us totally ignore the fact that our vehicle’s engine is what allows us to dependably get where we need to go. The car’s engine is the most vital and central operating unit of any vehicle. When we do notice the engine, it's usually when we hear it making sounds we're not accustomed to hearing or when the car feels a little different than it did before. Your vehicle’s engine requires some regular maintenance to keep it in good running condition. 
A healthy, functional car requires a healthy engine, and for your engine to remain in good working order, it must be well-maintained. Here is some basic engine maintenance that will keep your vehicle’s engine operating at ...[more]
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Auto Repair 101
Conventional vs. Synthetic Motor Oil
December 12th, 2019
When you go to purchased motor oil from your local auto store, do you know what you’re really paying for? When a service attendant asks you synthetic or regular, do you know the difference? If these situations leave you feeling unsure, let’s examine your options so next time you can make an informed decision. 
What Are the Advantages of Synthetic Oil Over Conventional Oil?
First off, synthetic oil is better than conventional oil. Synthetic motor oil uses a higher quality base oil as compared to the less-refined base oil used in conventional oils. Full synthetic oil provides better engine performance and protection than conventional motor oils and they are specially formulated to provide additional performance benefits. Conventional oil — when compared ...[more]
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auto repair
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Auto Repair 101
Tips for Winterizing Your Vehicle
November 14th, 2019
Winter is on the way. It’s time to get your vehicle winter-ready. Winterizing your vehicle is necessary to keep your vehicle performing its best during the cold months. Your vehicle’s safety is important during winter conditions, especially if you must drive on icy or snowy roads. There are several things you can do to ensure your car operates successfully throughout the winter months as well as maximize your car’s ability to keep you and your family safe should a winter weather problem occur. 
Here are some car care tips to give you peace of mind during winter driving:
- Cold weather slows down your battery power. During the cold weather, your engine requires more current from the battery in order to start the engine. Have a mechanic check your battery t ...[more]
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auto repair
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Auto Repair 101
How to Tell If Your Brake Pads Need Replacing
November 1st, 2019
With power brakes, it can be hard to notice when brake pads have worn to a point of needing replacement. Braking performance often doesn’t seem to drop off considerably until the brakes have gotten to a point of actually being dangerous. For this reason, regular inspection can make all the difference. Milstead Automotive in Spring, TX has compiled this helpful list to help keep drivers ahead of a problem like worn brakes:
Listen to Your Brakes
Many brake pads are designed with a spring-steel tab that protrudes from the backing plate and serves as a wear indicator. When the brake pad friction material has worn down to a minimum thickness, the tab will dr ...[more]
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Auto Repair 101
What is the Driveline of Your Vehicle?
October 24th, 2019
The driveline of your vehicle takes the power generated by the engine and transforms it into the rotation of the tires, providing the speed of your vehicle utilizing torque. The driveline is a very complex part of your vehicle. It includes the transmission, the driveshaft, the axles, and the wheels. It works in conjunction with the engine to move the wheels. Without a driveline, the power the engine creates would stop in the transmission, and the wheels won’t turn.
When your driveline has an issue, it will lead to steering issues which will require an inspection to see if parts may require replacement or replacing the entire system may be required. As with most intricate vehicle systems, it’s always best to check your owner’s manual to see when your manufacturer ...[more]
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Auto Repair 101
Halloween Driving Safety Tips
October 17th, 2019
Trick or Treat! Kids and adults both love Halloween with all the candy, costumes and fun of being up late. As witches, superheroes, ghosts and celebrities roam the streets in search of candy and treats, drivers need to be cautious when driving. Halloween can be a dangerous time for drivers and pedestrians alike. Statistics have shown Halloween is one of the deadliest days of the year for pedestrians. It is a night filled with darkness, increased pedestrian traffic and all sorts of distractions.
Let’s not let this fun evening turn into a tragedy. Following these driving safety tips can help drivers and pedestrians be safe this Halloween.
Drivers:
1. Use your headlights — Halloween nights can ...[more]
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auto repair
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Auto Repair 101
Importance of Four Wheel Alignment
October 14th, 2019
What is Four Wheel Alignment and Why is it Important?
Getting your wheels properly aligned can save you money, enhance handling, and make your vehicle safer and faster. Four wheel alignment is pretty much what it sounds like – making sure all four wheels are pointed in the right direction. Your car comes with a specific factory set-up and specifications. Overtime Accidents, normal wear, and tear, as well as road conditions, including potholes and curbs, can take their toll on your cars steering and suspension system, and disrupt the alignment settings.
There are several ways of spotting when your wheels aren’t aligned as they should be. When your alignment is off, your tires are not pointing in the same direction. This wi ...[more]
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Auto Repair 101
Types of Car Batteries
September 26th, 2019
You don’t put enough thought into your car batteries until it gives out. Then you think about how you just got this battery replaced a few months ago when in reality, it’s been three years. Your car battery does a lot for your car but has two important jobs. It exists mainly to start your car after you’ve turned it off. To start your engine, you need to create a spark to begin the ignition process. Your battery stores this energy to create the spark. The other job that your car battery does is to power the electrical components of your vehicle. This includes your headlights, your cabin lights, your radio, your dashboard, your window control, your mirror alignment and much more.
...[more]
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Auto Repair 101
Car Smells and What They Mean
September 12th, 2019
Does your car have an unpleasant, lingering aroma? Usually your first impression will be to check for food that may have been left under seats. If the culprit isn’t food that has gone bad, there are several other reasons that may be the cause of the unpleasant smell. The last thing you want is your passengers in your being uncomfortable by the smell or worse question your hygiene. You need to find the source of the odor because an air freshener will only mask what could be a serious issue. 
What’s That Smell?
Rotten Eggs - If the smell is similar to rotten eggs, this may be because your catalytic converter has gone bad. The root cause could be an engine or emissions system problem that made the converter overheat, thus causing the rotten egg smell.
&nbs ...[more]
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Auto Maintenance
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Auto Repair 101
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