Truck Articles

The majority of people are pretty good at keeping our cars in good shape. With the cost of upkeep and gasoline we want to make sure that our cars run for a long time and don’t break down on the side of the road.

But when was the last time you checked to make sure your car could stop running right when you needed it to? You need to insure your brakes are in working condition at all times. There are a few things you can take care of yourself as far as maintenance and visual inspection, but when it comes to something as important as brakes, get a mechanic to inspect it.

Tire pressure also plays an important part in your vehicle’s ability to stop in time. Yes I know we started talking about brakes but if you have under inflated or over inflated tires. Too much pressure in your tires will cause them to bulge and you won’t be riding across the entire width of the tire, the way it was designed, and this will increase your stopping distance. Also under inflated tires will wear on the outer ribs and this will decrease your traction, which in turn lends itself to longer stopping distances. So keep your tires properly inflated. Buy a quality tire gauge, don’t go by the pressure gauge at the gas station as these are notoriously inaccurate. A good rule of thumb is to check your tire pressure is once a week, or if there is a noticeable change in temperature. You need to check the spare tire too.

Brake fluid is another component that needs to be checked out. Before removing the cap to your brake fluid reservoir, wipe the cap down or the fluid could get dirty and grimy. Once you have determined the level and need to add some make sure you use DOT (Department of Transportation) 3 or 4. If the reservoir has two parts make sure you fill them both. While you have the hood open take a look for any leaks or cracked hoses. If needed get your car to your mechanic or dealer right away. A small issue can become a huge deal if you don’t fix it in time.

The parts which make up the brakes themselves, rotors, pads, discs are pretty straightforward. Any visible physical damage is a sign that you need replacement parts. If you have less than 1/8 inch on your pads it is time to replace them. If your discs aren’t shiny or have deep grooves they may need replacing but they may also just need to be turned. Ask your mechanic if you aren’t sure. Slight lines in the disc are normal, but large grooves are not. Also make sure the hoses leading to your brake calipers are inspected as well and make sure there aren’t any cracks or leaks.

To maximize your safety on the road, it’s crucial that you maintain your car and have it inspected frequently. Two times a year is the recommended time frame for having your brakes inspected. Utilize an easy to recall system like an Outlook calendar reminder or an iPhone app. Or the old stand by of spring forward fall back and check your breaks when you reset your clock for daylight savings time

Written by Jacqueline Star: Dallas Ford Dealers, Used Car Dealer Dallas

We’ve all had car breakdowns before and called Roadside Assistance for some help. We reach in our wallet and take out the membership card and within usually and hour someone is there to give us some assistance.

Luckily there are preventative steps that we can take which will lessen the chances of needing to call for help. One way is to make a check list of routine vehicle maintenance and keep on top of car repairs and preventive care. This is not a foolproof plan but can help lessen the chances of something catastrophic occurring.

Have a spare key. Don’t get locked out of your car. Don’t rely on those magnetic boxes your grandfather used. Keep a spare in your purse. Some companies will make small plastic keys that you can keep in your wallet for opening your locked car. These are ten times better than a coat hanger.

It might be a good idea to check your batteries from time to time. Make sure the battery is secure in it’s holder and that there is no corrosion around the battery posts (the + and -). Try to move the cables that are connected to the battery. If they move they need to be tightened. If they have rusted or are frayed you may need to have them replaced or cleaned.

Don’t drive on an almost empty gas tank. We have all pushed that needle all the way down to empty. Don’t get stuck on the road at night in the rain or snow or in a place with which you are unfamiliar because you thought you could go just a little bit longer. I like to refill at about one eight of a tank. Of course there are times I go past that but I never let the needle line up with the line for E -that is just not a very good idea to say the last

Did you know the five most common reasons for a breakdown. The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) compiled the following list: * Evaporative leak: Gas evaporates and its trapped in a canister until you start your engine. If there is a leak the check engine light will come on. Sometimes this is just a loose gas cap, but never assume. If you aren’t positive go to your nearest mechanic and have him take a closer look. * Battery failure: Have your battery inspected and have it replaced every 3 years or as recommended by the manufacturer. * Overheating: Make sure your system gets cooled sufficiently (for the engine not for you – although in the summer – have that checked too) * Flat tires and blowouts: Proper pressure provides prevention from this problem * Engine surge or hesitation: clogged up air filters, high temperatures and hum conditions are among the culprits. You car needs oxygen to run just like you. Anything that blocks or impedes the intake of oxygen puts strain on the engine.

If you car ever does stop running on the road, pull over as far to the right as you can and if you are on the freeway try to get off. Also make sure to have a kit in your car on hand for such emergency. This should consist of : * 8′ booster cables * Flashlight * Shop rags * Wet wipes (to clean up) * Foam pad to kneel on * Rain poncho * Flares or reflective triangle(s) * Duct tape

Take good care and more than likely you won’t ever have to make use of these items. However, it’s still to keep it in the trunk of your car just in case, because it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Written by Jacqueline Star: Used Car Dealer Plano, Used Cars Carrollton

Cars have used timing belts and timing chains for decades to power the engine and a growing array of components. It encircles a belt tensioner and set of pulleys, and forms the connection between the crankshaft and camshaft. As the crankshaft revolves, it turns a pulley connected to the belt. As the belt turns, it drives a camshaft pulley that powers the camshaft. The timing belt is one of the most important components under the hood of your vehicle.

Most automakers recommend replacing this part every 60,000 miles. Below, we’ll explain why this component needs to be replaced, and describe how you can inspect it for wear. You’ll also learn what can happen in the event the timing belt breaks before a replacement can be installed.

Why Timing Belts Need To Be Replaced

This part is constructed mainly of rubber, but also contains fiberglass cords for added durability. If the fiberglass were not included, the timing belt would snap or stretch easily.

As the belt travels around the tensioner and pulleys, it endures a high level of stress. Not only is it exposed to intense heat, but it is also forced to bend continually around the pulleys. Over time, these factors cause the rubber material to break down. If you neglect to change the belt, you may eventually see small pieces of rubber breaking off.

Traditionally, the timing belt has tended to fail after reaching the 60,000-mile mark. Some manufacturers, however, have begun to design this part with different compounds that allow it to last much longer.

Inspecting The Timing Belt For Signs Of Wear

Even though this component is designed to last 60,000 miles (unless you have a newer belt installed on your car), get into the habit of inspecting it every 10,000 miles. The constant use and heat to which it is exposed can lead to surprisingly quick wear. Given the damage a broken belt can cause (we’ll describe this in more detail below), it’s worth spending a few minutes examining it.

The timing belt is located on the front side of the engine. It will likely be hidden by a plastic covering, which is held in place by a few screws. The covering can be easily removed. Once the cover is off the engine, look closely at the outside surface of the belt. If you only see a few small fissures, the part is fine. If, however, you notice a lot of cracks, or several large ones, replace the belt.

After you have inspected the outer surface, examine the opposite side. You’ll see a series of teeth that help the component remain in place. As the rubber breaks down, these teeth may break off. If you notice any missing teeth – even a single one – replace the belt immediately.

Consequences Of A Broken Timing Belt

It is entirely possible that the timing belt will not break after 80,000, 90,000, or even 100,000 miles. However, if it does fail, it can cause significant engine damage. On overhead cam engines, there is very little clearance between the valves and the pistons. If the belt breaks or slips off the pulleys, the valves in one or more cylinders may hit the pistons. This will result in damage to both.

This is the main reason auto technicians recommend changing the part long before it breaks. Doing so is essentially an insurance policy against engine damage. While replacing the timing belt may cost a few hundred dollars, extensive engine damage may require overhauling or replacing the assembly. This can cost up to $2,000 or more.

While there is little need to change the belt at 30,000 or 40,000 miles (as recommended by some mechanics), be sure to do so at 60,000 miles. Otherwise, you risk an expensive repair bill for a problem that can easily be avoided.

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When you feel that something is not right with your body, you go to the doctor to have it checked. In order for the doctor to determine what is wrong with you, he will require you to undergo some diagnostic procedures. These procedures are designed to spot any anomalies in your body function.

Once an anomaly is detected, the doctor will then interpret that results and use the results to plan your treatment. The same thing can be applied with cars. Since modern cars now have on board computers, diagnosing any defects are much more easier with the use of the proper car diagnostic tool.

A car diagnostic tool, what is it? This can be any electronic device that is used to detect any defects in the car system. The car’s computer system is used to make this tool work. Nonetheless, only cars produced after 1995 can make use of this tool. Earlier models cannot benefit from this device since these cars do not have computers installed in their system. OBD II is the perfect example of a car diagnostic tool. You can get all the pertinent information that you require from this device in order to get started in the repairs.

A car diagnostic tool does not run diagnostics on one part of your car. Rather, every single care component is checked. Furthermore, relevant details regarding the various car parts are given as well.

Furthermore, the units of measurements can be displayed using either the metric system or the SI system. Usually, when this gadget detects some anomalies in your car a code will be displayed on the screen. Some diagnostic tools provide the interpretation automatically while some do not and you may need the manual in order to interpret the code displayed. Nevertheless, this tool is truly helpful especially when it comes to car maintenance and repairs.

Detecting problems ahead of time is easier when you are using the appropriate car diagnostic tool. In other words, this device will ensure your safety by making sure that your car is in perfect shape. With this tool you can now properly care for your car and at the same time prevent incidents wherein you will have to push your car while wearing your fabulous gladiator shoes.

Bob Proctor has been writing articles since 2005 and is an expert on car diagnostic tool, however he’s also interested in gladiator shoes for women friends.

During operation, your car’s engine produces emissions, most of which are funneled through the exhaust system before being expelled from the tailpipe. One of these emissions is called nitrogen oxides (NOx). These are produced inside the cylinders during the combustion process when the temperature climbs above 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nitrogen oxides combine with elements in the atmosphere to produce pollution (i.e. smog). They are also known to be harmful to people. For this reason, legislation was passed in the 1970s requiring automakers to minimize the level of NOx produced inside the engine. The solution was a component called the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve.

Below, we’ll explain what this part does to help control the production of nitrogen oxides. You’ll learn how it works, and what to expect when it fails or becomes clogged. We’ll also offer a few tips for troubleshooting the component when you think there may be a problem.

How The Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve Operates

NOx production can be limited by keeping the internal temperature of your engine below 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit during combustion. This is accomplished by feeding some of the exhaust gases back into the cylinders. Gases resulting from combustion are collected into a single pipe via the exhaust manifold. Some of these gases are redirected from the exhaust system, and fed into the cylinders through the intake manifold, the component that sends air into the cylinders. The exhaust dilutes the air-fuel mix, which helps control the combustion temperature.

The amount of exhaust gases allowed back into the combustion chambers must be adjusted continuously to optimize the performance of your engine. Too much exhaust will cause hesitation during acceleration, a rough idle, and even stalling. Too little exhaust will cause the temperature during combustion to rise. This in turn can lead to detonation, poor engine timing, and increased production of nitrogen oxides.

The EGR valve is located between the intake and exhaust manifolds. It serves as the gatekeeper to the exhaust gases that pass into the cylinders. Some EGR valves (mostly those on older vehicles) are mechanical while others are electronic; both operate on the same basic principle. The valve remains closed while your engine is idling, or if it has yet to reach standard operating temperature. As the temperature inside the cylinders rises, however, the valve opens to allow gases to enter.

The manner in which the part performs this function depends on the type of valve installed. Older vehicles (i.e. those built during the 1970s and 1980s) used a ported vacuum with a diaphragm attached to a stem flow valve. Positive and negative backpressure EGR valves were installed in cars during the same period, but were also used in later models. And as mentioned, most vehicles built today have electronic EGR valves.

Troubleshooting Possible EGR Valve Problems

The exhaust gas recirculation valve does not wear down in the same manner that brake pads, batteries, and alternators wear down. They are designed to last for years. In fact, it is not uncommon for this component to last the lifetime of the vehicle into which it is installed. That said, the EGR valve can accumulate carbon deposits that prevent it from working properly. Such deposits can cause it to stick in an open or closed position. Both can lead to drivability and emission problems.

If you notice detonation occurring during acceleration, the problem may be caused by an EGR valve that has become stuck in a closed position. Before reaching that conclusion, however, check the ignition timing, engine temperature, and condition of your spark plugs. These factors are more common in cases of detonation, and thus should be ruled out first.

If you have narrowed the problem down to the exhaust gas recirculation valve, remove and inspect the component. Pay particular attention to the diaphragm since a lot of issues are due to a leak that develops in this piece.

In the event you need to replace your EGR valve, make sure you purchase a model that is calibrated to your engine. Otherwise, it may be less effective in letting an optimal amount of exhaust back into your cylinders.

categories: cars, automobiles, car, car repair, car maintenance

A properly maintained vehicle pays dividends each year through lower repair costs, less frustration, and a longer life. For some reason, most drivers fail to do the simplest routine maintenance. Frankly, it’s baffling. If you don’t give your car the attention it needs, it will break down and cost more money in the long run. Today, I’m going to give you several tips for taking care of your car, truck, or SUV. These are things that literally take a few minutes and can keep your vehicle running smoothly and more efficiently for years.

Regular Oil Changes

The simplest task is also one of the most important. Your car needs clean motor oil to run well. Whenever you turn the key and start the engine, the oil lubricates the parts, reducing friction and providing protection from overheating. Over time, the oil collects contaminants, growing dirty and turning to sludge. When that happens, it can’t circulate as easily. Change the oil every 4,000 miles to make sure it’s clean and flows well.

Check The Transmission Fluid

Just like the engine needs oil, your transmission needs fluid. While you’re driving, the transmission generates a lot of friction and heat. The job of the fluid is to bring the temperature down. When your transmission is operating like it should, it won’t actually consume the fluid. So, if you notice that the levels are low, that means there’s a leak somewhere. Also, keep in mind that the heat generated by the transmission can cause the fluid to break down, turning its color from reddish to brown. If it’s brown, change it.

Check The Coolant

If you’ve ever seen white smoke billowing from under the hood, it usually means the radiator has overheated. Coolant keeps the temperature down. Under normal circumstances, you won’t need to change it. You just need to pop the hood, look at the level of coolant, and add more when it’s low.

Check The Tire Pressure

Even if you haven’t driven over nails or glass, your tires will lose pressure over time. Not only will that cause the treads to wear down more quickly, but you’ll get less fuel efficiency from your car. Buy a digital pressure gauge (they cost less than $20) and check your tires once a month. Your car owner’s manual lists the recommended pressure, so there’s no guessing involved.

At the minimum, you should be performing the 4 items listed above. If you do only those 4 things, you’ll find that your vehicle will last longer, perform better, and need fewer trips to the repair shop. And that means more money stays in your pocket.

categories: cars, automobiles, car, vehicles, car maintenance

Car paint protection has become a profitable business mostly to car repair shops and product retailers. But learning how to do your own car paint protection at home can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars in the long haul. Most of us are untrained in terms of auto repair. Thus, minor nicks and dings on your car are not things we are prepared to repair. We need to learn how to be much handier in terms of repairing these.

There are a number of DIY car kits on the market right now. The key to using these successfully is to read all of the instructions prior to beginning the project. You may also browse the Internet for more information about DIY car paint protection before using several products. You may search for Q&A’s, articles, as well as forums that provide information on the subject matter.

If you are dedicated to do it yourself, then you want to pay attention to this advice.

When you use a car paint protection product, it is advised that you reduce the frequency with which you wash your car. Most products simultaneously remove dirt, grime, and dust from your paint as well. You can replace washing with wiping your car surface with a wet rag to remove even embedded elements in the wax layers. Think about the boost to the environment and all that time saved!

Only the painted parts of your car need paint protection. The products would have little or no effect on chrome and other surface areas of your car which have no paint at all.

Further, you should use great caution when applying a paint protection product onto areas which are close to the windshield or the windows. You ought to tape off these areas with a plastic adhesive tape prior to using the protection products. Numerous products which provide paint protection also are appropriate for use on your car’s vinyl or fabric upholstery. Several dual purpose products are currently available in the marketplace which give great protection for the vehicle’s interior and its exterior. Always read the label all the time to ensure that you’re applying the product on the correct surfaces.

Chas writes numerous articles on short term auto insurance and about getting short term car cover on the web

Most vehicles today are equipped with disc brakes installed at the front and rear wheels (some cars have drums installed in the rear). Hydraulic fluid is delivered to each wheel from a master cylinder. This component is located in front of the driver’s foot within the engine compartment. It consists of a reservoir and a small piston. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, a plunger transmits the force to the reservoir. Because the fluid contained within the master cylinder cannot be compressed, it is forced to move through a series of hoses to your vehicle’s wheels.

The brake installed at each wheel consists of a caliper, piston, rotor, and a set of two brake pads. The hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder arrives at the caliper, and causes the piston to press the pads against the rotor. The friction generates heat, and causes your vehicle to slow down.

To understand the problems your braking system might develop, it is important to be familiar with its operation. With this in mind, we’ll describe the most common issues you’ll experience. We’ll also provide a few tips for making your brakes last as long as possible.

Common Signs Of Brake Problems

Several clues suggest there’s a problem in your braking system, regardless of whether you are able to slow your vehicle. For example, the pedal might be positioned lower to the floorboard than normal (an indication of a fluid leak). Or, the pedal may sink to the floorboard while your car is idling (a sign of a leak in the master cylinder). You might also notice the pedal feels spongy (this usually means air has gotten into the lines).

Another problem many drivers report is a pulsing sensation when they apply their brakes. This typically means a rotor has become warped; its surface is uneven. The most common issues drivers experience are squealing and grinding. The former suggests the pads are worn. The latter means the pads are completely gone, and metal is now scraping metal.

When The Pads Wear Down

As mentioned earlier, each caliper is equipped with a set of two pads. The pads consist of a metal portion, and a wearable portion (that is, it wears down with use). A metal tab is built into the wearable material to alert the driver that replacements are necessary. When the pads wear down to the metal tab, the tab rubs against the rotor and produces a squeal.

The replacement interval for brake pads varies depending on your driving habits, the quality of the pads, and the condition of your braking system. They might last as little as 20,000 miles, or as much as 60,000 miles. The important thing is to replace them before they damage your rotors.

When The Rotors Become Warped

Rotors may warp as the result of normal wear and tear, excess heat, and even exposure to moisture. When warping occurs, the component must be removed, set in a lathe, and resurfaced in order to restore its smoothness. The challenge with resurfacing rotors is that only a small bit of the braking surface can be “shaved off” before they become unusable. Unfortunately, a lot of mechanics accidentally remove too much of the surface. In such cases, a replacement is necessary (and expensive).

Making Your Brake System Last

Prolonging the life of your brakes involves inspecting them on a regular basis and developing good driving habits. First, if you hear uncharacteristic squealing, there’s a good chance the metal tab in one of the pads is rubbing against the rotor. Have the pads replaced. Second, if the rotors need to be resurfaced, make sure the mechanic tightens the lug nuts evenly when he reinstalls them. Otherwise, the rotor will warp again.

Also, while driving, keep sufficient space between your car and the vehicle ahead of you to avoid riding your brakes. This is one of the most common reasons brake pads wear down prematurely.

Your brakes are arguably the most important safety system installed in your vehicle. Learn to recognize problems when they surface so you can address them as quickly as possible.

It is all too easy for you not to notice when one of your headlight bulbs has blown while you are driving along. As soon as you realise that you are driving on one headlight you will need a replacement bulb and it is essential that you get the right size and type of bulb for your vehicle. One of the tricks to avoid having to change your headlight bulbs frequently is to be aware of how to make your headlight bulbs last longer and get the best out of them.

Headlight bulbs come in a selection of different sizes including H1, H4 and H7. You can also choose from three different types including long life headlight bulbs, standard halogen headlight bulbs and xenon modern upgrade bulbs. If you do not want to change your headlight bulbs regularly and don’t want to opt for ones that blow easily, the best variety to choose is one that does not give out much light.

The Xenon upgrade headlight bulbs include the Osram Night Breaker. The Osram Night Breaker headlight bulbs produce up to 90% more brightness than standard halogen bulbs through their use of xenon gas. The high power xenon headlight bulbs are specifically designed to take the stress out of driving at night and to make night time driving safer. They can be expected to have between two and three hundred hours of life.

If you want to spend less time changing your headlight bulbs then a long life option is the right choice for you. Whilst they can be a little more expensive, you will not have to change them as often because they can last up to 50% longer than standard halogen headlight bulbs. You will not have buy them as often either, so in the long run you will be better off.

Halogen bulbs are regularly used by vehicle manufacturers and are a good choice if you are looking for brightness. They usually last for about 400 hours and offer good levels of light. All three options of headlight bulbs are good and it’s just down to individual preference as to which you choose. Whatever you decide, it’s a good idea to keep some in reserve ready for when the next one blows!

Are you searching for new Headlight Bulb? Not confident which Headlight Bulb you should choose? If so, it’s a good idea to do some further online research to make a decision.. Check here for free reprint license: Which Headlight Bulbs Should You Choose?.

Everyone knows how important it is to keep a vehicle well maintained and repaired properly when issues arise. Most people have their friend or a friend of a friend that “fixes” cars and can take care of small things that go wrong. For top of the line service every time, not much can beat going to a full service dealership such as Johnson City Kia.

Service personnel at many dealerships are trained directly by the manufacturer to perform work on the models of vehicles the dealership specializes in. The factory training they receive gives them an edge against mechanics in a local repair shop that have mainly learned by doing over time rather than being properly taught. The factory also provides refresher courses on a regular basis to keep them apprised of any new upgrades or changes to a particular vehicle model.

The courses they are required to take are ongoing, which keeps them abreast of any changes that may have been made in either procedure or to particular models. This gives them a real advantage over smaller repair shops that do not have the backing and direct support of the manufacturer. Having the factory backing them up gives them all the tools and support they need to get the job done right.

Mechanics at a dealer also have the advantage of having a full technical support staff that they can contact at the factory should any questions arise during a repair. The factory staff has the background knowledge of the vehicle in its parts form as well as its completed one, which gives then a unique perspective. There are sometimes questions that can only be answered by someone who has actually put something together without having to take it apart first.

With literally thousands of parts making up the entire car, it is quite possible for a mechanic to overlook something during a particular repair procedure. The factory staff can aid them in locating whatever issue they may be having and get the repair completed in a much quicker fashion. For instance, a dashboard removal may require certain parts to be removed in order and the support staff can help the mechanic through it much quicker than them having to find it in a manual.

These mechanics can take advantage of this wealth of knowledge where a regular auto repair shop technician may have to resort to reading and rereading a manual to find the information he needs. This can cause huge delays in the repair time and actually cause the repair bill to be higher. These mechanics end up calling the factory anyway, which delays things even further as the support people at the manufacturer have to explain everything from the ground up to them.

Service departments, such as the one found at Johnson City Kia, have all the necessary parts, tools and knowledge to affect repairs and maintenance quickly and efficiently. By keeping the amount of time down on a repair, the cost to the customer is lowered even further. In the case of warranty work or scheduled maintenance, the cost can be non-existent. This means the car owner is back on the road in the shortest time possible at the best price.

Rusty Wallace Kia is a well reviewed Kia dealer in Johnson City Tn. They have been selling new and used cars in Morristown TN for over 20 years and are happy to answer any and all questions about your next car purchase.

categories: cars,car maintenance,car service,Kia,Kia dealership,suv,auto repair,auto service,car dealership,car repair