Tag: car maintenance

Driving with Parking Brake On: What Can Go Wrong?
7Dec By E.WilsonNo Comments
News

Driving with Parking Brake On: What Can Go Wrong?

Have you ever accidentally left your parking brake on while driving? It's a common mistake, but it can cause serious issues. This article explains what happens when the parking brake is engaged during travel and offers tips to avoid such mishaps.Key TakeawaysThe parking brake should only be used while your car's not moving, or it may damage components.In most modern cars with electronic brakes, the system will disengage automatically once you start driving. But in older models, problems can arise.Continued use of a manual parking brake when driving could lead to overheating and potential failure of braking systems.Imagine this: You're rushing out for work one morning, but as you pull away from the curb, your car starts making strange noises. The culprit? A forgotten engaged parking brake. ...
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Beware of Fake Spark Plugs: Tips to Stay Safe and Save Money
7Dec By E.WilsonNo Comments
Guides & Maintenance, News

Beware of Fake Spark Plugs: Tips to Stay Safe and Save Money

Changing your car's spark plugs might seem like a straightforward DIY job, but beware—counterfeit parts are everywhere. These fake spark plugs can cause serious damage to your engine if they're not up to the mark.Key TakeawaysAvoid buying from unknown third-party sellers online; stick with trusted sources like dealerships or reputable auto parts stores.If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine spark plugs typically cost around $13 each for popular brands.Inspect your purchase carefully before installation—look out for irregularities in packaging and quality.Australia's Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries found that 60% of spark plugs sold online were counterfeit back in 2019. And it seems like this problem hasn't gone away since then, with many still falling victim...
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Leaky Cars Aren’t Just Ugly, They’re Dangerous and Costly Too
6Dec By M.ChenNo Comments
News

Leaky Cars Aren’t Just Ugly, They’re Dangerous and Costly Too

When a car leaks on the street, it's not just an eyesore; it can be dangerous for other drivers, pets, kids, and even start fires. The leaked fluids spread out over time, affecting everyone who uses that space.Key TakeawaysA leaking car poses a risk of reduced traction on tires and fire hazards near hot engine parts.The leak can signal failing components such as gaskets or seals, which may lead to sudden mechanical failures.Parking next to a leaking vehicle increases the chance of getting oil residue on your own tires and risking safety issues.Drivers often overlook how serious a car leak is. Oil leaks can occur from worn engine parts like gaskets or valve covers, causing dark smears under the vehicle that spread over time. These fluids aren't just unsightly; they're also slippery on pavem...
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Clean Snow Off Wheels for Safer Winter Driving
6Dec By J.CarterNo Comments
News

Clean Snow Off Wheels for Safer Winter Driving

Winter's grip on roads can be as unpredictable as the weather itself. As we navigate icy streets and snow-packed highways, one often-overlooked maintenance task is cleaning ice and slush from wheel wells to maintain optimal tire balance.Key TakeawaysClean your wheels regularly after winter storms to prevent imbalances caused by hidden ice clumps.A quarter-ounce of weight can throw off a car's wheel balance, making minor snow accumulation significant.Maintain a thick work glove in the trunk for safe and easy access when clearing out stubborn snow from your wheels.Back in the day, before winter tires were commonplace, many drivers relied on all-season radials to get through harsh winters. These days, even with better tread patterns and rubber compounds designed specifically for cold weather ...
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The Best Way to Remove Stickers from Car Windows
2Dec By E.WilsonNo Comments
News

The Best Way to Remove Stickers from Car Windows

Have you ever bought a used car only to find it plastered with old stickers? Or perhaps your own car has accumulated decals over the years, and now you want them gone. Removing stickers from car windows can be a frustrating task, but there are practical methods that work wonders without damaging your vehicle's glass or interior.Key TakeawaysClean the area with an ammonia-free cleaner before attempting to remove stickers.Use gentle heat from a hairdryer or steam iron to soften stubborn decals.Apply vegetable oil, WD-40, or warm soapy water to dissolve adhesive residue.First things first: clean the window thoroughly with an ammonia-free cleaner and a microfiber towel. This step is crucial because it removes dirt and grime that could interfere with your sticker removal process. It also helps ...
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How Long Will Your New Car Service Take?
30Nov By E.WilsonNo Comments
News

How Long Will Your New Car Service Take?

Buying a new car is an exciting milestone, but it's important to consider the ongoing maintenance and service requirements. While you might be eager to hit the road with your shiny new ride, understanding how long it will take to get your vehicle serviced can save you time and stress down the line.Key TakeawaysA minor logbook service typically takes a few hours at most.A major service can last all day or longer, depending on additional work needed.It's wise to book your car in for servicing well ahead of time to secure availability and a loan vehicle if necessary.When you bring your new car home, the first year is often covered by a warranty. During this period, it’s crucial to stick to the manufacturer-recommended service intervals. A minor logbook service involves routine checks such as ...
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