A/C Problems Demystified
June 30th, 2016
Believe it or not, the A/C system in your vehicle is fairly simple in principle and design. Like your refrigerator, it operates on a cycle of compression and expansion of a gas, known as refrigerant. The compressor turns the gas into a liquid, and as the gas evaporates it provides cooling. Like your refrigerator, its main components are:
- Compressor
- Condenser
- Receiver/dryer
- Thermostatic expansion valve
- Evaporator
- Refrigerant
- Blower
The good news is most automotive A/C systems have become very robust and reliable compared to cars from a genera ...[more]
Posted in:
Auto Repair 101
So You Get A Flat Tire...What Now?
June 16th, 2016
Nobody ever looks forward to a flat tire, and nobody ever says "well, that was a really good time" after having one. You can at least minimize the damage to your tire and danger to yourself, though.
Flats vs Blowouts
If you get a blowout, you'll know about it right away. Sometimes the tire can fail dramatically, with a bang as loud as a shotgun going off. Other times, it might just be a loss of air and a sudden change in your car's handling, followed by vibration, noise and a pull to one side. If it's a front tire that fails, your car might be a real handful to drive until you can get to a stop.
In either case, your first job is to pull off the road as quickly (but safely ...[more]
Posted in:
Tires 101
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