If you’re like most of us, then you probably don’t know much about your vehicle…other than the fact that it gets you from point A to point B. And that’s fine! But when you start to realize that your vehicle is acting different or you’re starting to hear noises coming from it that you didn’t hear before, then you need to start asking questions…literally. A lot of us do like asking questions about our vehicles, whether it’s because you’re scared it’s going to cost you money or maybe you just don’t want to sound dumb. But if you don’t ask questions or seek professional help, then you run the risk of your vehicle becoming more damage then it initially was.
Lucky for you we did the hard work for you this week. This week’s blog is all about the 10 most commonly asked questions that you might be afraid to ask your local mechanic. Well, this time you don’t have to! Check out all of the questions below and be sure to take a look at the answers if your vehicle is experiencing any of the issues below. If you feel you need professional help to get your ride back in tip-top shape, then schedule an appointment with us on our website!
#10 How Often Should I Check My Tire Pressure?
- Most new vehicles allow you to check your tire pressure right from the driver’s seat but if your vehicle doesn’t do this, a good rule of thumb is to check it at least once a month.
#9 When Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?
- Every 30,000 – 60,000 miles but be sure to check your owners manual for more information specific to your vehicle
#8 Why Do Signal Lights Blink Faster Sometimes?
- This simply means that the bulb has burned out
- When the bulb burns out, the voltage drops which makes it easier for the circuit to do its job
- Just like most things, the easier something is, the faster it gets done…Hence the fast blinking
- Just replace the bulb and it will blinker normal
#7 What’s the Difference between Over and Understeer?
- Oversteer is when you can turn your car more than you intended
- Understeer is when your car turns less than what you intended
#6 When Should I Replace My Timing Belt?
- It is recommended to change your timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but be sure to check your owners manual for information for your specific vehicle!
#5 Can I Switch to Synthetic Oil or a Different Grade?
- This is when your owners manual comes in handy
- Check the manual to see which oil grade you use, we suggest sticking with that type and not switching to another grade
- When it comes to switching to synthetic oil, it’s usually problem-free, but when it comes to older vehicles this could be a bad idea!
- If your vehicle is a synthetic oil vehicle NEVER go to conventional oil…this could damage your engine big time!
#4 What Do the Sounds My Brakes Make Mean?
- Your brakes are made of pads and rotating components that are always moving
- Like anything, over time these components begin to wear down and vibrate, and you can hear when this happens
- If the noise is high pitched squeaking, that means your brake pads need to be replaced
- When you hear a grinding noise, this is a more serious issue… This means your brake pads have been so worn down that it is now metal on metal and you could damage your rotors
#3 How Can I Save Money on Gas?
- Smartphone apps that help you find the cheapest gas stations in your area
- Loyalty programs at grocery stores sometimes help gain points toward gas
- Filling up earlier or later in the day can sometimes mean cheaper gas
- Avoid gas stations along the highway, they tend to have inflated prices
#2 What is the Difference between a Two-Stroke and a Four-Stroke Engine?
- A stroke is the maximum amount of movement a piston can make in one direction
- A two-stroke engine can complete two strokes in a single fuel injection
- A two-stroke engine is louder, less efficient, can cost less, produces high power for a short period of time, and requires oil in the fuel
- A four-stroke engine can complete a four strokes in a single fuel injection.
- A Four-stroke engine is quiet, more efficient, more expensive, produces lower power for a long period of time, and doesn’t require oil in the fuel
#1 Why Does My Car Hydroplane?
- This happens when tires come in contact with more water than it can dispell
- Water is pushed under the front tires creating a barrier between the road and the wheel
- The leads to no traction, resulting in sliding or hydroplaning on water…similar to sliding on ice
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