What Exactly Are Xeon Headlights?

What Exactly Are Xeon Headlights?

By Ron Haugen

For people who are buying new or fairly new cars, you might realize that the headlights are a bit different. The popular halogen lights are now being replaced by what is called HID lights. HID stands for high intensity discharge lights and are powered by xenon gas. Xenon lights are brighter, last longer and are generally safer for the driver of the car. But the new lights also have a few downsides to them that need to be worked out.

The first HID bulbs using xenon were introduced in high end luxury cars in the early 1990s. These cars had such a difference in view in the dark hours that more manufacturers adopted these styles of lights. They refined the lights to keep making them safer and easier to use in all makes of cars. Now, Xenon powered HID lights can be made available for most makes and models of vehicles.

Xenon is a gas that powers the light bulb, like neon and other gases do. They provide an electric arc, which is a more powerful beam to radiate out from the headlight position. While this provides more light for safety, they cost a bit more as well. There isn't a filament to burn out inside the light bulb like in the past, so the light will last a lot longer. The longer lasting technology will also cost a bit more to the consumer. However, when you don't have to go to a dealership as often and pay for them to install new light bulbs, the savings might work out more towards the car driver's favor.

Lights from xenon gas appear bluish when they are coming down the road towards you. The bluish tint helps to detract from the brightness in a person looking at them, but they still produce a powerful beam to highlight the road in front or if anything were to jump out from the side of the road. Some people are distracted by the blue light, but it just takes a bit to get used to it and a driver can pass a car with those lights with no problem.

Even though more headlights is a good thing on a dark and curvy road, it can be a bad thing to an oncoming car. Headlight glare can cause accidents since people can't see where the road is because of temporary blindness. Make sure if you drive a vehicle with xenon headlights that they are pointed in the correct direction to maximize what you can see and lessen the impact on oncoming traffic.

No matter if you use xenon lights or not, get the burned out headlight replaced promptly. Not having bright lights can be a detriment to your driving abilities at night and for other cars coming against you in traffic.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Is Bio-Diesel Fuel?

What Is Bio-Diesel Fuel?

By Ron Haugen

For people who spend a lot of time on the road, going to the gas station might become a love-hate type of thing. Filling up can be an expensive thing to do when you have regular gasoline for the engine. For people who are looking at new cars, bio-diesel might be thrown out regularly by the salesperson, but you don't really understand what that means to you as the buyer. Is it cheaper? Does it make the car run differently? Does bio-diesel save you money in the long run, no matter how many miles you drive each year in the vehicle?

Bio-diesel is actually a good thing to have in your car for many reasons. Bio-diesel is a product that is created in the United States. Therefore, having bio-diesel powered cars means that we won't be dependent on other countries allowing us to get their oil and process it in to gasoline. It won't matter what the countries do because we won't have to rely on their supplies to power out vehicles.

Since the product is produced and manufactured in the US, then there is also less charges for shipping. The overall price per gallon will be less to produce which in turn means less per gallon the end user has to pay. And by having a product made and manufactured in the US, then US jobs are supported and keeping money in the US.
Bio-diesel is produced from renewable resources like vegetable oil. There is a process which breaks down the components so that they are able to work within an engine. Bio-diesel does not have to have petroleum in it, but it can be added to make up a biodiesel blend used in automobiles.

Biodiesel is a more affordable option but it is also a smarter option for the environment. Since it is made of renewal resources, it can easily be produced without harming the environment. Biodiesel fuel is non-toxic and biodegradable if it were to ever spill, get in the ground water or have a mishap in nature. Biodiesel also contains no sulfur, make it much safer for all who handle it from the processing plant to those who pump it in to vehicles.

Biodiesel can only be used in engines that are built for it. It cannot be added to a vehicle simply because you want to switch over to the product. If you are looking for a new car, the salesperson can direct you to the vehicles that only need bio-diesel to run. The biodiesel engines can often work with regular fuel in them, but not vice versa. Don't add bio-diesel to your engine if you aren't sure or before checking with the auto repair person who handles your car.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Function Does a Cabin Air Filter Serve in My Car?

What Function Does a Cabin Air Filter Serve in My Car?

By Ron Haugen

As you drive down the road and realize you are getting hot, you turn on the AC and expect to wait a few minutes for the air to get cool and make the rest of the ride comfortable. But it doesn't get cool after a few minutes. A smack on the dashboard returns no more results and you give in and roll down the window a crack. What is wrong with the AC now when it worked just fine a week ago. Or did it?

Many air conditioning systems in cars that were built after the year 2000 have what is called a cabin air filter inside of them. The cabin air filter sits outside of the engine area and filters air that comes from the outside and in to the AC system. The air filter will get rid of a lot of pollutants getting in the cabin of the vehicle. But, imagine a filter on the outside and what else it can pick up when it drives down the road, mile after mile? Cabin air filters can easily get clogged.

A cabin air filter that hasn't been changed recently can make the AC in the car not work or not work as efficiently. With a clogged air filter, no air can get in - it is simple as that. So when you recently tried to turn on the AC and it didn't produce results, it might be an easy fix as to just switch out the filter.

Skipping the filter can be expensive if you don't have the ability to do it yourself. However, it isn't something you can go without doing, especially if you have discovered the AC doesn't work. Check with your mechanic or dealer and see what the cost is for a filter. They might even be able to look at it and see if that is initially the problem or if there is something else, more sinister going on with the AC system.

The cabin air filter works to keep bad air out of the cabin when it comes in for the cooling process. The air molecules it can keep out include pollen, dirt from the road, pollutants from the air, road grime, dust, dirt, leaves and anything else flying around on the road. The air filter works just like a filter does on the furnace of the home or an air purifying system. Frequent changing of the filters is best and will keep everyone inside a little bit healthier. The cleaner the air, the better it is for those with allergies or even asthma and need to have clean air in order to feel good all of the time.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Hybrid Vehicles - How They Work?

Hybrid Vehicles - How They Work

By Ron Haugen

Hybrid vehicles used to be considered space aged and "ugly" looking. The first ones were so aerodynamic they looked like space capsules going down the road. But now, with technological improvements and so many vehicles adapting the look, hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular and the norm in the United States. But what exactly makes them a popular choice for people? How do they even work to save on gas or energy? Why should you consider a hybrid for your next vehicle?

Hybrid vehicles can be considered hybrids for a few reasons. The very first hybrid cars were space capsule looking because they needed to have the least air resistance as possible so they did get decent gas mileage. Or could drive with an electric charge. Now, hybrids look like any other vehicle from the exterior and it is only what is under the hood that makes them a hybrid vehicle.

Small cars, mid sized cars and even SUVs can be a hybrid vehicle. A hybrid simply means that the traditional method of powering a car with gasoline is combined with another form, such as electricity or alternative fuels. Alternative fuels could be bio-diesel, ethanol or even a different type of energy source. Make sure that no matter what type you use, it is allowed in the user manual and recommended for your engine type.

You can't simply make any vehicle a hybrid, even if you just want to. The car needs to be set up to have an electrical charge if it runs on electricity. Or it needs to have an engine to handle the different types of fuel besides gasoline. Taking a regular gasoline powered engine at the stations and filling up with ethanol will do nothing but ruin the engine in the car you currently have.

Hybrid vehicles reduce the use of gasoline and make things better in a lot of ways. The greenhouse gases are lower since the fuel doesn't have to be processed for the car. The oil isn't shipped from other countries, lessening the dependence on oil from other countries. And you are spending less money simply because you can combine gas with other fuel sources and not have to pay a ridiculous amount per gallon in order to go somewhere.

The engine will still power the car and the brakes will still stop the car. The only difference between a hybrid and a regular vehicle is that a hybrid has flexible options when it comes to powering it up. Hybrids with options will become more popular in the future as the price of gas continues to go up and oil from other countries continues to be unreliable in price and availability.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Are Fluid Flushes?

What Are Fluid Flushes?

By Ron Haugen

To make every component in the car run properly, it usually requires a fluid. The fluid can either help power the movement, lubricate the action of the parts or either help a part run safer. With repeated and heavy use of these fluids, how long can they last? Do they evaporate? Do they get dirty? How do you know when it is time for new fluid?

A mechanic at your shop will be able to answer your specific questions on fluids, but in general, you should at least know what types of fluids are in your car and when it is time for a fluid flush. Fluid flushes can happen with the transmission, the brakes and even with the radiator. A fluid flush cleans the old fluid out of the system and new fluid is replaced.

All the Types of Fluid

The fluid in your car systems includes windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, anti-freeze and oil. Those are the big ones. The oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles or so and that is pretty common knowledge. And you add more windshield wiper fluid when it runs low (or you go to use it and nothing comes out!) But what about the rest of the fluids in your car that you do not know how to check?

An ASE technician will be able to check out the fluids in your car. They have the correct gauges to see where the levels are at and they can take a sample out and see if it is dirty. Some fluids can last forever in the car, while others need to be checked and changed as part of the routine maintenance on your car. Dirty fluids should be changed so they don't leave a buildup of dirt in parts of the engine, which could make it run poorly.

Sometimes leaks happen in the car. A leak can be spotted during a routine tune up and corrected. The leak might be a slow one and not noticeable to you. But if all of the fluid were to drain out of the power steering unit, then it would be very hard to turn. It could also be hard to stop the car if the brake fluid had all drained out. Keeping the fluids at their optimal levels will ensure that the function they are supposed to do will happen.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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When Is It Time for Tire Replacement?

When Is It Time for Tire Replacement?

By Ron Haugen

For people who don't know a lot about cars, it might be hard to determine when it is time to get things checked or changed. The sticker on the windshield lets you know when it is time to get an oil change, but there aren't usually stickers for other things, such as tire rotation, tire replacement, fluid flushes and so on.

How can you find out?

Have you noticed a bit of vibration when you go down the road lately? That vibration might mean you need the tires to get balanced or it might mean you need to replace all four of your tires. Tires come with a certain mileage life on them and if you don't know what it is, then you might not have realized when you passed it. It is also best to check all of your tires each time before you get in your car.

The number on the side of the tire tells you how many miles your tire is expected to last, but if you don't know at what point on the odometer they were installed, then you might not have any clue as to how many miles are on those tires. When you don't know how many miles are on a set of tires, then you have to eyeball it.

A certified technician can look at the tires and see where they are wore down and how much tread they have left on them. If they are low on tread or even showing bald spots, then you need to get new tires right away. Tires that have little or no tread are not safe to drive because they won't have any traction on the tires. In the rain or snow, that could make you have an accident even sooner.

Replacing tires should be done with all four at the same time. That way, you know exactly how many miles are on what tire, because they are all the same. The tires can be rotated evenly over the next months and the wear can be made more even on the tire. Spending money on all four tires when the tread is starting to wear rather than waiting until it is a lot lower or you find yourself in an accident.

There are many different tires to choose from, so you can find a set that fits in to your budget. The tires will have different tread levels and different mileage guarantees on them as well.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Why Tune Ups Are Important?

Why Tune Ups Are Important

By Ron Haugen

No matter how old - or even how new - your vehicle is, getting regular tune ups is very important. You might not think so, because if there isn't anything wrong, why fix it. But that couldn't be farther from the truth. A regular tune up might catch a problem before it becomes a problem and leaves you stranded on the side of the road. Taking your vehicle in for a scheduled tune up is also a lot more convenient than having to work around a breakdown, so why wait?

What Tune Ups Can Spot

How often do you actually open up your hood and check the components that are under it? Be honest, probably never. So you don't have the ability to spot when a belt has started to crack or looks aged. You don't know what pieces are running together more than they should be. You don't notice the fluid leaking from an engine component. Or do you?

Taking your car in to a specialist who is trained to look for any type of mishap will catch those little things you don't have time for. While they are under the hood changing the oil, they can also do a safety inspection. This inspection will look at all of the major elements under the hood and on the car. They may also check the life left on the brake pads, the tread left on the tires and how much fluid is where it is supposed to be. When all of these checks are made ahead of time, they can be corrected before they become a major problem.

A tune up might take an hour or so of your time and cost a few dollars. But just imagine how much more time and dollars could be involved if you have to wait on the side of the road, call a tow truck and then rent a car to get to work while yours gets fixed. Suddenly, a little tune up doesn't seem like it is such a put out, does it?
If you suspect something is wrong with the car, you can mention it to the mechanic when you take it in. That way they can pay extra attention to that detail when they are looking around. Spending your time wisely now will only help you to have more time in the future - NOT spent waiting around for your car to be repaired.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Who Needs Engine Tuning?

Who Needs Engine Tuning

By Ron Haugen

You have heard of having a tune up done on your car, but what is tuning? Is that just a different term for a tune up on the car? Not really. Tuning is a form of tune up, but it is not part of the regular maintenance program needed for your car. Tune ups happen at any car dealership or auto repair place when there are small problems on the car. They can also be for checks and prevention maintenance on items of the car. Tuning involves the engine specifically.

When you are trying to grasp what tuning is, think of race car drivers. Engine tuning is when you tweek the engine you have by adjusting air intakes, fixing the idle speed and then working on the different components of the engine. What tuning sets out to do is make an engine run more efficiently, faster and to give a better overall performance.

Engine tuning does not really need to be done on regular cars. They have the engine worked on, the fluids checked and changed when needed and they run fine. Engine tuning is for people who know a little bit more about engines and want their own car to perform better. These cars might race in amateur races on the speedway nearby or they might be pulling heavy loads on a farm. All professional race car drivers spend hours a day on engine tuning, so you can see who it is most important to.

If you have an older car, you can consider engine tuning for it. There might be locations within the engine that could be updated with a different part or something new that makes it more efficient. Unless you know how to fix engines yourself, don't attempt to get under the hood and make the adjustments yourself. Hire a mechanic or an ASE technician who knows about engine modification and engine tuning specifically.

For people who take their car in for routine maintenance and the mechanic comes back and suggests engine tuning for it, you might want a second opinion before you proceed. What do you use this car or truck for? Obviously, if you haul a lot of things in your vehicle, then may want to get it checked out more often. If it is not for racing or a lot of highway driving, then you probably don't need it. Only have your engine tuned if you need to get a better performance out of it and know it is possible with a few new parts.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Auto Repair Des Moines | DMARC Emergency Food Pantry

What Are Electrical Diagnostics for Your Car

What Are Electrical Diagnostics for Your Car

By Ron Haugen

Cars are very high tech today. There is no doubt that a computer runs a lot of sensors on the car, from the oil pressure to the tire pressure to how close an object is to a car. Even if you don't have a new car, there are electrical components to your car that need a diagnosis on occasion. What are some of those electronics?

The windshield wipers on an older car are electronic. They have intermittent control, in certain vehicles there is a rear wiper. All of the wipers have a switch that controls their speed. What happens if the speed goes haywire and doesn't respond to where you turn it? You have some type of short in the circuit.

Other problems that can be electrical stem from the battery. Sure, you need gas to run your car, but if the battery won't turn over the engine to start it, you won't ever need that gas. A technician can look at your car and figure out why the circuits on your battery aren't connected right or tight and get the problem fixed. Coming out from class or work in the dark and having a car that won't start is no fun.

No matter what type of problem you are having with the car because of an electrical problem, there are a few ways to diagnose it. When a light comes on your dashboard to check the engine and you don't hear anything wrong, you might be stumped. You can take the car in to an auto parts store or even to the dealership and they have a device you can connect the car up to.

The auto parts store will allow you to do it yourself, since they aren't authorized to make a diagnosis on your car. The dealership will perform this, since they can fix your car. But what the contraption is is a box with a few wires. The wires connect to wires underneath the steering column inside of your vehicle. Once the part is connected, it will read the car's computer and be able to tell exactly what code caused the light to come on in the car. The code will be a sensor that is off, a belt going bad or some other circuit that is mis-firing within the engine or other place on your car. Once you know the code, you can have the item repaired and be back on your way.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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What You Need to Know About Brake Repair

What You Need to Know About Brake Repair

By Ron Haugen

Did you just roll up to a stop sign, apply the brakes and hear a funny metallic sound you don't remember hearing before? Or maybe you hear a grinding sound, but have ignored it for a few weeks now? Hopefully the latter is not the case, because it could be a serious problem with your brakes. The longer you go with a funny noise from the brakes region, the potential for a more expensive fix exists. The brakes might only new pads, but the longer the problem goes, they might need new rotors, calipers or something else.

Have the Brakes Checked Routinely

The brakes are something that can be checked often, when you have a routine maintenance check done or if you are having the tires rotated. Having the brake pads checked when the tires are off the vehicle is more accurate than when they are on the tires. The brake pads are measured to see how much is left and then you are given a percentage of how much brake pad is left.

Once the brake pads are getting down towards the 25% range, you should consider having them replaced. Once the pads get worn down below 50%, they can wear even faster. What might be 25% one week can be down to 15% in just a few short weeks. It is better to have the brakes replaced sooner rather than later, since you can then be assured you aren't damaging other parts of the brakes.

To repair the brakes, the car is simply put up on a lift, the tires pulled off and then the brakes looked at. Depending on how many of the parts need to be replaced will determine how long the process will take. When just the brake pads need repair, then it will only take an hour or so. When you need the brake pads, new rotors and even calipers installed, it might take a half of a day to complete the job.

Brake repair can be costly, but it is not something you can go without on the car. When the brakes don't work properly, the car won't stop properly. A car that cannot stop when predicted will get in accidents or be scary to take out on the road. As soon as you suspect a brake problem, have it checked out by an ASE technician so you can get the problem fixed if it exists.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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What Is Undercoating?

What Is Undercoating?

By Ron Haugen

How many times have you washed your car in the driveway, taking extra car with cleaning the wheels and making sure every piece of dirt was cleaned off the sides? After you have washed your car each time, have you then also spent as much time cleaning and caring for the bottom of your car, where all of the really important pieces lay? Nope? Why not?

Under your car is where it is important to clean. There are tie rods, brake parts, cables, line and all types of bolts and screws that get dirty, covered in oil, tar or whatever else is on the road. Shouldn't those items be kept clean over other, surface parts of your car? Yes. And that is why undercoating was created.

Undercoating is available in a few different ways for your vehicle. When you buy the car, you can elect to have a special application put on the car. This is especially useful in northern regions, or if you drive in places that have snow, salt on the roads, dirt or heavy traffic that throws up oil and dirt. The undercoating is a layer that is spread over the bottom of your vehicle and will keep it cleaner than if you opted to not have it sprayed on. The undercoating will protect the undercarriage of the car from soaking up all of the bad materials from the outdoors that could make it deteriorate faster.

Another way to get undercoating is when you go to an automatic car wash. As an option with your wash, you can get the car washed and then have an undercoating spray put on at the very end. This spray job won't be as thick as if it were applied at the dealership, but something is always better than nothing.

One other benefit of having undercoating on your car is that is can create a seal over tiny holes in the car. These holes sealed up will make your ride quieter as you go down the road. Everybody likes to have a quieter ride, right?

Undercoating can be an expense you really didn't plan on, but it is also one that can prolong the life of your car, which might save you money in the long run. Undercoating doesn't take very long at all, if you opt to wait while it is done. The short wait and the small expense now is worth having a car last longer in the future.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Why Are Diesel Repairs Different Than Other Engine Repairs

Why Are Diesel Repairs Different Than Other Engine Repairs

By Ron Haugen

There was a time a few years ago when everyone wanted to jump on the bandwagon for diesel engine cars. Diesel was cheap, the cars ran just as good and people liked them. Until the manufacturers of diesel realized they could make some extra money by changing the price of the fuel needed in order to run these types of engines. Down went the popularity of diesel engines in cars.

But diesel engines still exist. They often power the bigger vehicles, like school buses, semi-trucks and delivery trucks that are on the road today. Why are these vehicles still powered by diesel when it costs more to power the car? Because they are built differently and works better with heavier vehicles.

There are a lot of differences between the diesel motors and the regular engine of a car that is powered by gasoline. The biggest difference is how the car starts. A diesel engine compresses air first and then heats up, and then the fuel (diesel) ignites and powers the engine. The other engines has the fuel mixed with the air and then get compressed by the piston chambers, causing it to fire and power the car.

Technicians have argued that the they work more efficiently with big loads, therefore trucks and buses have largely remained diesel. What happens when you need to fix that type of engine? In reality, it really isn't that big of a difference. Engines are engines are engines, so they have a lot of components that are the same. However, the pistons, the fuel chambers and the air intake are what vary.

A mechanic can go to school to simply work on diesel engines alone. They can specialize in them to make themselves desirable to hire at a dealership that sells semis or they can market themselves to a dealership that sells and services both kinds of engines. A diesel mechanic might be able to fix a regular engine, but they would also be able to focus on and diagnose a problem with a diesel engine more easily than someone who is not specially trained on it is.

Having a diesel engine might not save you money on fuel expenses any more. The engine might be able to better pull a heavy load more efficiently. But no matter what, if your diesel engine needs repairs, seek out a mechanic who is specifically trained in them.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Things You Should Know Before Buying High End Cars

Things You Should Know Before Buying High End Cars

By Ron Haugen

Whenever you are driving a high end car, you are sure to want to get the best handling and performance possible. After all, if you did not want the best, you could have bought any car. This is why whenever you have chosen to purchase high end car, it is important that you choose to get a repair specialist. These specialists not only know which parts that they are supposed to use and where they are supposed to go. They have all of the right equipment to diagnose problems before they even happen. This will help you to stay on the road longer.

There are many different things that you will need to consider whenever you are looking to get the best help from these kinds of specialists. You will need to make sure that they are a certified mechanic. You will also need to make sure that they have the right kinds of equipment. It is also important that you only choose those which use genuine parts.

Choosing a Certified Mechanic

The first thing that you will need to look for whenever looking for a repair specialist is to make sure that they have a certification to work on high end cars. This is a certification which is offered to individuals which have proven that they have the ability to work on these kinds of cars and to restore them to a like-new state. They will have gone through training as well as having gone through a certification test to make sure that they know what they are doing.

Look for Certified Equipment

Even with the certification, there is no guarantee that the mechanic will be able to spot the problem. This is why these high end car companies have created a computer which will interface with your car. This will allow the mechanic to see problems inside of the engine and other parts of the car even without doing a physical inspection. Make sure that the repair specialist that you take your car to will have the kind of equipment which will allow them to recognize the problems that you are facing in your vehicle.

Look for Genuine Parts

Another very important thing to look for whenever choosing a repair specialist is that they will need to be able to supply you with all of the genuine parts that your vehicle will need. While there are a few kinds of parts which might fit your car, they are not made for the high end car. Only genuine parts will work the way that they are supposed to work so that you can get the performance that you deserve in your vehicle that you love so much.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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Why Choose a Specialist for Your Car

Why Choose a Specialist for Your Car

By Ron Haugen

There are many different things that you will consider whenever you are purchasing a new car. Among the different things that you will need is that you will need to be able to have the right kind of car. The car that you have will allow you to be able to get everything that you will need including performance and handling. It is the reason why so many people will choose to buy luxury cars. To make sure that you are able to continue to get the performance that you want to get out of this vehicle, it is important to take it to a specialist for repair.

It is important to understand why these kinds of specialists are different from the average mechanic. These specialists have been trained to work on your vehicle. They make sure to follow the guidelines for inspecting your vehicle. They also make sure that they are using the right parts whenever repairing your vehicle. This will help you to enjoy your vehicle more.

How Training Helps

One of the things that a repair specialist will go through is a specialized training just for these kinds of vehicles. They will learn about the different parts of the engine which make this vehicle in a class all on its own. They will learn not only the maintenance basics, but everything that they will need to make sure that they can maximize the performance in everything that you are looking to do with the vehicle that you purchase.

Get the Best Inspection

Whenever you take your vehicle in to get repaired, it will need to be inspected. This inspection will make sure that no problems are missed. Only a specialist will be able to know which parts they are supposed to inspect and what they are looking for whenever they inspect them. This will allow them to find problems before they even happen and to repair them. This will help in making sure that your vehicle runs like brand new for as long as you own your vehicle.

The Right Parts Make a Difference

Another thing which you will notice whenever you take your vehicle to a repair specialist is that you will be able to get the genåuine parts. Good mechanics will always use the right parts because only the right parts will make sure that your vehicle is always running its best. They will even know how to make sure that they are installed correctly so that they will be able to perform to their maximum potential. You will notice the difference in your vehicle as long as you maintain it through the use of these professionals.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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What Is Octane in Gasoline?

By Ron Haugen

Everyone has pulled up to the gas station with the intention of getting what is right for their car so that they can get the best performance. This is why so many people will opt to pay extra to get the premium gasoline even though they are not sure exactly why they are getting it. The normal thought process is that because it is more expensive, it is better. The only reason that one fuel is more expensive than another is because of the level of octane which is found in the gas. So, what is octane in gasoline and how does it help you?

The first thing that you will need to know is what octane actually is. You will also need to know how you can benefit from octane. Additionally, you should know when you are wasting your money buying a high-octane gasoline. This will help you to know that you are getting what is right for your car every time that you pull up to the gas station.

What is Octane?

Octane in the gasoline that you purchase is measures by the hydrocarbon mixture which is found within. This is achieved through further refining of the gasoline. The additional hydrocarbons in the gasoline will cause the fuel to burn slower which is beneficial for cars which run at a higher rate than those which run at a lower rate. It is designed to help in reducing the sound of knocks when performing at this higher level.

How You Can Benefit

The biggest benefit that you will be able to enjoy whenever you use high-octane gasoline is that you will enjoy fewer knocks and pings when running at higher levels. It is important to bear in mind that the further refining of the gasoline does not mean that it is better. It simply means that it is different and more expensive than the lower grade gasoline.

What You Should Buy

Not all cars will benefit from using a higher octane. This is because most cars are designed to operate with the use of gasoline with a grade of 87 (regular gas). Only those with high performance engines should use a higher octane of 91 or greater. Generally, if you notice an increase in gas mileage or performance whenever you are using a high-octane gas for a car made to use low-octane gas, it means that you are experiencing an engine problem that you are not yet aware of. Make sure that you are paying attention to your owner's manual before you purchase gasoline so that you can get the right stuff. This will keep your engine running correctly for a longer period of time.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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Why Wax Your Car?

Why Wax Your Car?

By Ron Haugen

Whenever you own a car, you are likely to take a lot of pride in the way that it looks. It is the reason why you are sure to keep it clean of all trash as well as making sure that you clean the outside and inside often. Of course, there are some who start to consider whether they actually need to wax their vehicle. This is still as important today as it was decades ago. It is important to take a look at exactly why it is important so that you will not be tempted to go without it.

There are a few different things that you will need to know about how waxing your cart helps. You should learn about water damage to the pain, sunlight protection as well as rust protection. This will help you to make the decision to purchase the right kind of wax and to make sure that you are giving your car everything it needs to stay looking new as long as possible.

Water Protection

The sign of a well waxed car is the fact that the water will bead up and slide right off of the car. This is important because it means that there is a layer of protection in between the water and the paint of the car. Even the best paints with clear coats can be affected by heavy rains. They will eventually fade and not have the luster and brilliance that they are supposed to have. You can get the protection you will need by simply applying wax.

Sunlight Protection

The sun is another natural enemy to the paint and finish on your vehicle. There are two ways that it can cause the paint to fade. Not having any protection will allow the different UV rays to penetrate through and bleach the paint. Additionally, when water pools on the vehicle, it can act like a magnifying glass. The concentrated light source will effectively burn the paint and cause it to lighten on some areas or darken in others. You will end up with spotty looking paint which will ruin the overall look of your vehicle.

Rust Protection

Another thing that your vehicle will be in danger of without the protection that wax can offer is that you will possibly get rust in your vehicle. This is not only possible because of the different kinds of ways that the water will be able to get under the paint. It is also possible because moisture from humidity or sea air can seep in. The layer of wax that you put on your vehicle will offer additional protection against the rust which can ruin your vehicle form the inside out.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Benefits of a Diesel Car

By Ron Haugen

There are many different things that you will be able to be able to enjoy whenever you have a vehicle. Among the different things that you will be able to enjoy is that you will be able to enjoy the ability to go where you want to go whenever you want to go there. People these days are all talking about the kinds of gasoline that your car burns and how much of it that it burns. A dirty word in the automotive industry used to be diesel. This is no longer the case and you will even be able to enjoy some serious benefits whenever you purchase a car which uses this kind of fuel.

In order to make the decision to purchase a diesel car, you will need to understand the long term benefits for you as a driver as well as for the environment. You will learn that you get better gas mileage. The process of making diesel is also better on the environment. Additionally, the engines which use this fuel are smaller and more effective. This will allow you to enjoy your vehicle even more.

Get Better Gas Mileage

One of the big things which people enjoy about diesel cars is the fact that they get about three times the miles per gallon that you normally get out of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline. While you will pay slightly more for each gallon of diesel that you purchase, you will not spend three times more. This will mean that you will be able to enjoy an aggregate savings every time that you pull away from the pump.

Help the Environment

Most people are thinking a lot about the environment these days. Diesel is easier to manufacture than regular gasoline. This means that there is less pollution in making it. Additionally, the engines and exhaust systems for these engines have been completely overhauled so that there are lower emissions coming from these kinds of vehicles than most which burn regular gas. This means that you are having about the same effect as driving a hybrid vehicle.

Get a Better Engine

The other advantage that you will get whenever you are using diesel is that the engine runs more efficiently. This is why you are able to get better gas mileage. It is also the reason why you will be able to get better performance with an engine that does not need to burn as hot to get the same amount of output that you will get with a less efficient gasoline engine. This will help you to go longer between maintenance checks and to make sure that you will be able to spend less on your car.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Basics of an All Wheel Drive Car

By Ron Haugen

There are many different kinds of cars out there that you will be able to enjoy driving. Getting the right kind of car will help you to be able to get everything that you will need so that you will be able to do what it is that you want to do. Many people who like to drive off-road enjoy purchasing all wheel drive vehicles. Before you purchase an all wheel drive car, it is a good idea to know a few things about what it is that you will be able to get out of it.

Among the different things that you will be able to enjoy whenever you are driving an all wheel drive car is that you will be able to make sure that you are never losing performance even when traveling over uneven ground. You will also be able to stay assured that you will not lose traction when driving over ice. Additionally, you will not have to worry about losing performance while driving uphill. This will help you to be able to get everything you need out of your vehicle.

Drive on Uneven Ground

There are many different times when you will find that you are driving over uneven ground whenever you are driving off-road. This is when the all wheel drive car really shines. Even with two wheels off of the ground, you will still be able to get forward motion. This will allow you to make sure that you are never slowed down even by some of the roughest terrain.

Drive over Icy Conditions

You will also be able to enjoy better stability whenever you are driving over icy conditions. The all wheel drive car will be able to make sure that the wheels are turning at the same rate no matter what, so you will not have to worry about spinning out over the ice. The rest of the tires will help you to maintain smooth, even control whenever driving over these uncertain conditions. Bear in mind that if you drive over a sheet of ice larger than your car that you can still skid.

Driving Uphill

Another way that you will benefit by having an all wheel drive car is that you will be able to drive uphill with greater ease. This is possible because of the fact that your wheels will both pull and push your car up the hill. You will not have to worry about sliding or losing traction while you are going uphill because if any of the tires are not able to pull their weight, the other three will be able to help out. This will provide you with constant forward motion as you move forward.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Basic Automobile Air Conditioning Function

By Ron Haugen

There are many different things that you will enjoy whenever you have a good car. You will enjoy the reliability of being able to go wherever you want to go whenever you want to go there. You will also enjoy the fact that you will be able to adjust the temperature in your vehicle no matter how hot or cold it gets outside. To learn how to use the air conditioning properly, there are a few things that you will need to learn to understand. These will help you to enjoy the air conditioning you have in your car even more.

Among the different things that you will need to know is that you will need to know when to use straight air or recirculated. You will also need to learn to adjust the volume of air being used. Additionally, you will need to learn how to mix the air which is being used in your vehicle. This will help you to get the exact temperature that you are looking for so that you will enjoy your ride even more.

Straight Air VS Recirculated

One of the first things that you will need to consider after you have turned on your air conditioning is whether you want to use air straight from outside or from inside of your car. Aside from air quality, the hotter it is outside, the harder it will be for your car to cool it down properly. If you are looking for the coldest air possible, you should recirculate the air from your car. Bear in mind, this can affect the performance of your vehicle because of the power drain.

Adjusting Fan Strength

Next, you will need to determine how hard you need the fans to blow when you are running the air conditioning. Just like with the recirculation of air, the harder the air blows, the lower the performance you will notice in your vehicle. Instead of cranking the fan up high, think about adjusting the vents so that they will be directed towards your face or your chest. This will help you to feel cooler faster.

Adjusting the Temperature

Another thing that you will be able to do is that you will be able to adjust the temperature, which is coming out of the vent. By adding in a little heat, you will not have to turn down the fans when you get cool. If you like the feeling of the wind, you can leave everything on high and simply adjust the temperature. This will allow you to get everything that you will need so that you can enjoy your ride even more. You can also cycle between AC and straight vent from the outside air.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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All Season VS Snow Tires

All Season VS Snow Tires

By Ron Haugen

There are many different important components to your vehicle that you will need to pay attention to in order to make sure that you are getting the maximum performance possible out of it. Among the most important things that you will need for your vehicle are the tires. These are important because they are what will maintain your vehicle on the road. Without the right tires you will simply drive off of the road. This is never more important than when there is snow on the ground. Of course, this brings up the debate about whether you should have all season tires of snow tires.

There are a few things that you will need to know in order to choose the right tires. Among the things that you will need to consider is where you live, where you drive and what kind of vehicle you have. This will help you to quickly and easily choose the right kinds of tires for your vehicle.

Considering Location

There are many different things that will determine whether you will need to be able to get all season tires or snow tires. One of the main ones is where you live. If you live in a warmer climate which only sees a light snow every year, there is no reason to buy and install snow tires. These are normally best left for those who live in parts of the world where heavy snows are normal throughout the winter season. You will actually get less gas mileage if you drive on these tires whenever you are not in snowy conditions.

Considering Where You Drive

Another thing that you will need to consider is where you drive normally. Even in parts of the world where you get heavy snows throughout the winter, they are prepared for the snow. They make sure that all of the roads are salted and plowed. Only if you are driving in conditions where plowing is not being done or is infrequent will you need to have these kinds of snow tires. All season tires should be just fine to get you where you want to go.

Considering Your Vehicle

Another thing that you might want to think about is what kind of vehicle you are driving. The heavier the vehicle and the wider the wheel base is, the more likely it is that you will be able to maintain traction even with all season tires. The best way to make sure that you are getting the right kinds of tires for your vehicle is to talk with a tire professional. They will be able to advise you as to which of the different tires you can choose from will be best for your needs.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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What Is Hydroplaning Tires?

By Ron Haugen

Tires provide a simple action for a vehicle - they help the vehicle to move. This action has plenty of bearing on the safety of our driving and the efficiency with which we drive. This is why we focus on the various issues that can affect the tires on vehicles as they are driven. Hydroplaning is one serious issue that all should completely understand and work to avoid. But what is hydroplaning tires, and what can we do to combat the action?

Understanding Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning involves water that is on the road, water that usually comes from (or during) a heavy rain storm. The road may be completely flooded, or divots and tracks in the road may retain water that the other areas of the road do not. When a car drives through a small puddle after these storms, it simply displaces the water and stays in contact with the road. But when a car drives over a large section of water, hydroplaning can occur. Hydroplaning is when the water on the road forms a barrier between the the road and the tire. The tire is not actually touching the ground, and is instead resting on the water. This is possible due to the fast movement of the tires and the depth of the water.

Hydroplaning can cause serious issues with the control of the vehicle. When the car is hydroplaning, the tires that are currently on the water (as opposed to the road) are inoperable. While they still move, they cannot be controlled - the tires cannot accelerate, slow dow, or be directed. The danger comes when multiple tires suffer from hydroplaning. If the two tires that are responsible for steering hydroplane, or if all four tires hydroplane, the entire vehicle is not able to stop or be directed. The driver will lose complete control of the vehicle.

Your Tires and Their Susceptibility to Hydroplaning

While the standing water on the road is one cause of hydroplaning, the tires on your vehicle are another. If your tires are under-inflated or overinflated, they will not have complete contact with the road. The lack of traction will allow the barrier to form, causing the hydroplaning action.

The tread of the tire is also an important aspect of the issue of hydroplaning. The stronger and deeper the tread on your tires, the less likely your vehicle is to hydroplane. The treads help to break up the water that is on the road, giving you traction and reducing the ability of the water to form the barrier that causes the issue.

What is Hydroplaning tires?

So what is hydroplaning tires? When some people refer to hydroplaning tires, they are talking about tires that are made for wet weather conditions. These tires feature deep grooves and treads that have been designed with standing water in mind. Their goal is to provide an ultimate level of traction on the road, keeping the tires from hydroplaning and keeping the driver in full control of their vehicle on the road. If you drive in wet conditions on a regular basis, you should consider replacing your tires with these tires.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com.

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The Importance of Quick Brake Repair

The Importance of Quick Brake Repair

By Ron Haugen

The brakes are the single most important thing on our vehicles. While all of the parts are required to get us moving, these are the parts that are truly designed to keep us safe. We often need to go in to have our brakes checked and have our brakes repaired because of the strong wear and tear that they will see over the course of the life of the car. Quick repair is important to get you back on the road and to keep you as safe on the road as possible.

While brake repair is important, it has a few important qualities that all drivers should understand. Knowing the importance of having your brakes done quickly will encourage you to be vigilant about brake maintenance.

Catching Small Issues and Problems

It is generally most important for those who notice that they have small issues with their brakes. These people generally need their pads replaced but do not have any other problems with their brakes.

This is important for car owners in the sense that it keeps them from dealing with larger brake issues down the road. If you look for quick repair now, you can avoid bigger problems that will require more expensive repairs later on in the life of the vehicle.

Keeping You Safe on the Road

It is important in the sense that it keeps you, and others, safe on the road. It works to make sure that your brakes work properly, which will allow you to avoid accidents on the road. It can give you this safety and do it quickly and efficiently.

Getting You On the Road Quickly

While you may think about fixing your brakes yourself, you should give serious consideration to quick brake repair. This repair is going to happen at lightning speed, and will get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Most shops are going to be able to handle quick brake repair in an hour or less (assuming they have a time slot opening).

If you notice that you are having some trouble with your brakes, take your vehicle in to a shop as soon as possible. The shop will be able to show you exactly what is wrong with your brakes and what type of brake repair you will need to get them in perfect working condition.

Most shops are going to work quickly to get your brakes done, as the procedure is simple and will get you on the road quickly. If you know that you need brake repair, do not hesitate because of money or time - get it done right now.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com.

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The Importance of Fluid Flushes

The Importance of Fluid Flushes

By Ron Haugen

Your vehicle relies on a wide variety of fluids to run as it should. Everything from the power steering to the brakes in your vehicle rely on fluids to be able to operate. While this fluid can handle a lot of wear and tear, it is not perfect. Fluid flushes are often necessary to keep these various aspects of your vehicle running smoothly.

It is important for all car owners to understand the importance of fluid flushes. Understanding what they can do for your vehicle and how often they should happen will help you to keep your car operating as it should.

Lubrication and Movement

The two types of fluid in your vehicle help with things like lubrication and movement. Some of the fluids are used to grease up parts of the vehicle, while others are used for hydraulic-like movements that keep your vehicle operating smoothly. A fluid flush is going to make sure that your fluid can operate as it should. The heat and constant movement of these fluids causes them to break down, which will make them less effective.

Longevity

You want your vehicle to last as long as possible, which means that you must keep the parts in your vehicle running as long as possible. If the parts in your vehicle must constantly work harder than usual because of the broken-down state of your fluids, they will suffer from issues earlier. If you want your vehicle to last, you need to get fluid flushes as they are scheduled.

Efficiency

The parts in your car will be most effective when they are in top shape. If the fluids in your vehicle are not allowing the parts in your vehicle to operate efficiently, your vehicle suffers in multiple ways.

You will see a decrease in the amount of power that your vehicle can generate. You will notice a marked difference in the pickup speed of your vehicle. You may even notice that your vehicle does not get the gas mileage that you are used to it getting. When your parts are inefficient, your vehicle is inefficient. You may need fluid flushes to make sure that our car can operate exactly as you would expect it to operate.

If you are slightly confused about fluid flushes and the frequency with which they should happen, consult your owners manual. You can even talk to your local authorized dealer to get a better feel for the fluid flush recommendations.

Fluid flushes are a necessary part of car ownership. If you have a vehicle and you want it to last as long as possible, you should take it in to have the fluids checked and flushed.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com.

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Caring for Clear Coat Paint

Caring for Clear Coat Paint

By Ron Haugen

Many of today's vehicles utilize the clear coat paint system. Some have moved to clear coat paint systems because of the environmental effects of other types of paint and top coat paint on the market. Others utilize it because of its strength and longevity. Both must work to understand the importance of caring for coat paint on their vehicles.

There are some special steps that you must take to care for the paint job on your vehicle if your vehicle does indeed have one. If you fail to follow these steps correctly, you may damage the finish on your vehicle - and will have to pay a hefty bill to have it fixed. These tips will help you to care for your vehicle's exterior correctly.

Waxing

One of the most important things for you to do for your finish is to apply wax to the vehicle regularly. This wax is going to protect the finish from a wide variety of environmental factors, the most important being the sun. The rays of the sun can easily damage your coat, as the rays eventually wear down the shine and luster of the clear coat. Most professionals will recommend that you apply wax to your vehicle at least one time a year; many will suggest that you do this twice a year.

The wax will also help you to steer clear of small damage to the top coat. This damage comes in the form of small scratches, scratches that are generally caused by debris, dust, and dirt on the road. This double-duty protection is what makes wax the most important part of caring for it on your vehicle.

Cool Your Car

It is important for you to wash your car regularly, as it helps to remove the acid and debris that will be found on your vehicle over the course of time. There are chemicals in the detergent that you use for your vehicle that are helpful when applied correctly, but can be harmful when applied incorrectly. Heat makes these chemicals work faster, which can mean damage for your clear coat. Most professionals recommend that, to safely clean your finish, you do not wash your car in the sun and that you cool off the vehicle with cold water before the wash.

Gentle Cleaning Materials

One of the biggest enemies to your clear coat is a small scratch. These small, tiny scratches speed up the issues that can affect this clear topcoat. Many fail to realize that the cloths and tools that they use to clean their vehicle are actually harming the vehicle. Avoid anything that could be abrasive while cleaning your vehicle when caring for your finish. You should not use a regular home-use hand towel; instead, use a towel sold specifically for cleaning vehicles.

It is not difficult to care for clear coat paint on your vehicle. You simply need to put more thought and care into the way that you approach general cleaning. Regular waxing, cooling the vehicle, and using the right cleaning materials is key to caring for clear coat paint on your vehicle.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Pothole Damage and Your Wheel Alignment

Potholes are just one of the many regular hazards people deal with as they drive their daily routes. Most will try to avoid potholes as much as possible, but will eventually end up hitting a large hole that is simply unavoidable. While some only try to avoid potholes because of the jarring bump that occurs, others realize the serious issues that can come from hitting a pothole. It is important to understand pothole damage and your wheel alignment, as potholes can cause serious problems that will require repairs.

The Problem with Potholes

Potholes are an incredible nuisance and annoyance, but can actually do some serious damage to your vehicle. The problems are all caused by the way the pothole forces your vehicle to move, as only one of the four tires of your vehicle is going to dip into the pothole at any given time. While your car wants to completely shift to the side that the pothole has been hit, the front (or back) tire that is not in the pothole stops it from doing so. This means that the parts that focus on the alignment of the tire that goes into the pothole will bend and shift to compensate.

This shift and bend can cause a myriad of problems for your vehicle, all of them stemming from the wheel alignment of your vehicle. When your tires and the various parts that keep them aligned move, they become off and misaligned. A small wheel alignment issue may not be noticeable for a long time; save for the shaking that you will feel as you drive. Eventually, serious issues will rise from that initial misalignment.

Pulling

If the pothole damage that your vehicle sustains manages to damage or shift the caster, your wheel alignment will be off in terms of steering. If you feel your vehicle pull from one side to the other as you drive, the casters are off. This can make driving and steering somewhat difficult, as you must constantly correct for the way that your vehicle shifts on the road.

Tires

Issues with wheel alignment can cause uneven wear and tear on your tires, as the jolt of a pothole can mess with the cambers of the alignment system. When the camber is damaged, the wheel will tilt to one side or the other. The uneven wearing of the tires results, and the suspension of your vehicle will suffer.

Toeing

The toe is the third part of the wheel alignment system of your vehicle. When you hit a pothole, the toe of your vehicle can turned in (positive toe) or turned out (negative toe). This can cause the same uneven tire wear as camber issues, and can also cause the steering issues caused when the caster is off.

The initial issues caused by pothole damage and your wheel alignments are small - you'll notice a shift in driving and steering and may notice some shaking. The tire wear and the suspension wear take time to surface, but will result in the need for part replacement.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com.

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What Is an Alternator and How Does It Charge My Battery?

When something goes wrong with our vehicle, we take it in to the experts and professionals in hopes of finding out what the issue is. From that point forward, most of what the professionals tell us goes directly over our heads. While we may understand some of the basics about vehicles, hearing that a belt needs to be replaced or that we have an issue with the alternator tells us nothing about what is wrong with our vehicle. We need to work to understand more about our vehicles to know how they operate and what can go wrong with them. We need to understand things like "What is an alternator, and how does it charge my battery?" to have a better grasp of how our vehicle works.

The Alternator

The alternator is one important piece of the complete charging system for your vehicle. It works with your battery to keep your vehicle running by generating power for the vehicle. The power that it generates helps to keep the electrical components of your vehicle running. This covers anything from the lights on your vehicle to the entire instrument panel of your vehicle.

This piece is located around the front of the engine on most vehicles, and is connected to the crankshaft of the vehicle. The crankshaft utilizes the movement of the pistons in your vehicle, converting that up and down energy into a circular movement.

AC Power

The alternator gets its name from the type of power that it provides. The alternator works with alternating current to provide the power needed for the electric parts of the vehicle. The power that it takes in is AC power, power that is created between the rotor and stator. The rotor creates AC power through movement, and it directs that power through the prongs of the stator. The stator directs that AC current, which the alternator then converts into DC power. The alternator needs to covert the power to DC power because the engine can only utilize DC power.

It is possible for your alternator to wear down and go out, which can cause massive problems for your engine and your vehicle as a whole. If the alternator is not switching the current, the engine cannot use the power and simply cannot run.

Fortunately, alternators are not expensive to fix or replace. Their location, relative to the engine, makes them easy to reach. Unless you have an incredibly expensive vehicle, the part will not be expensive.

If you are looking to understand more about why your alternator stopped working or want to know more about how the alternator works, talk to the mechanic working on your vehicle. They will be able to explain any issues that you have with the part and what you may be able to do in the future to avoid having the problem again. They may also have recommendations for the alternator parts that you will want to use to repair, or replace, the alternator itself.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen

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Hypermiling, What Really Is It?

Gas mileage has always been an important statistic of the vehicles that people drive, as most are looking to get as many miles out of a gallon of gas as they can. Rising gas prices and a renewed focus on the environment have led car companies to tout the amount of miles their vehicles can get per gallon. These statistics are estimates, however, as the amount of miles we get per gallon rely on the way that we drive our vehicles. Enter hypermiling, the movement that many rely on to get incredible gas mileage. But what is hypermiling?

Hypermiling is simply the act of attempting to squeeze out as many miles per gallon as possible. Hypermiling individuals will do whatever they can do to get the highest gas mileage, and employ a wide variety of tactics to do so. Understanding these tactics may help you to get better gas mileage as you drive.

Light Vehicles

Hypermilers are going to try to get their vehicles to be as light as possible, as a lighter vehicle requires less power on the road. Hypermilers will not have anything in their trunks that they do not need for the trip that they are taking, and generally try to drive with the fewest amount of passengers as possible.

If you are considering hypermiling, you should think about mileage before you even purchase your car. Look for lighter vehicle models - they tend to have a higher MPG rating because of their low weight.

The Power of Shifting

Hypermilers are attracted to stick shits because of the power and control that they provide. When you drive a stick shift, you control the shifting of gears. When you shift gears at slower speeds and at slower RPM rates, you save gas mileage. Automatic vehicles fail to give you this control, shifting at higher speeds and using more gas.

Shifting comes into play for both manual and automatic transmissions in the form of neutral. When it is possible to do safely, putting a vehicle in neutral while moving gives your engine a rest. You will use less gas, and may save on gas mileage over time.

The Dangers of Drafting

When most people ask, "What is Hypermiling", the first response they get includes drafting. Drafting is the incredibly dangerous tactic of purposefully tailgating a vehicle, preferably a large one. The idea is that the car ahead breaks the air, lowering the wind resistance your vehicle will face on the road.. Drifters will even attempt to turn off their engine while following close behind in an attempt to save gas mileage. This is an incredibly dangerous maneuver that is not recommended. It requires driving at an unsafe distance and turning off your vehicle - both issues can cause a variety of issues and accidents on the road. Do not attempt to draft, even when implementing hypermiling into your driving lifestyle.

The Importance of Tires

Hypermilers know that the tires are an important part of gas mileage for a vehicle. When under inflated or overinflated, they reduce the amount of miles the vehicle can get per gallon. Check the tire pressure of your vehicles every day and adjust accordingly, as it will help you to save on gas mileage.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen

Gap Auto Insurance, What Is It Really?

The world of auto insurance can be tricky and difficult to understand, leaving many in a bind after accidents happen on the road. While many individuals feel that they are fully covered in the case of an accident, a strong majority of them are not. A prime example of this common auto insurance issue can be seen when looking at new vehicles and the importance of Gap auto insurance.

So what is Gap Auto Insurance?

To better understand this type of insurance, we need to understand how insurance works as a whole. Different insurance levels cover different levels of accidents and damage. While some insurance levels only cover the damage for the other vehicles involved, full coverage insurance works to cover the damage that may be done to your vehicle. Contrary to popular belief, this coverage may not be enough.

New Vehicles

Gap auto insurance plays an important role for those who have just purchased a vehicle or are currently leasing a new vehicle. The insurance covers the issues that regular insurance, even full coverage, may not cover.

The issue comes in the form of car value. When you purchase a new vehicle, or lease a new vehicle, it automatically loses value. For a period of time, you will owe more on the vehicle than the vehicle is worth. If you purchase your vehicle for $30,000, and the value immediately drops to $25,000 once it is drive off of the lot, there is a gap between what the vehicle is worth and what you owe.

This gap only causes issues for individuals who get in serious car accidents or have serious car damage during that time period. When the accident or issue occurs, the auto insurance company will only cover what they believe the vehicle is worth. While you may have paid $30,000 for the vehicle and still owe $28,000 on that vehicle, it was only worth $25,000 at the time of the accident. Most insurance plans will only provide you with $25,000. That leaves a $3,000 gap between the money that you received for the car and the amount of money that you still owe for the vehicle.

What is Gap Auto Insurance?

Gap auto insurance has the sole purpose of covering that gap that you will inevitably have after purchasing a new vehicle or leasing a new vehicle. The only way for individuals to get around this issue is if they put up large down payments for their vehicles - something most fail to do.

Gap auto insurance works like any other type of insurance in that you pay a set fee for the coverage. If your vehicle is in an accident or suffers major damage, the insurance company will cover the difference between what you owe and what the vehicle was worth at the time of that damage.

If you are purchasing a new vehicle or leasing a new vehicle, talk to the professionals and get the numbers on your gap. Once you understand the worth of your vehicle after you drive it off of the lot and compare that to how much you owe, you will understand whether or not Gap auto insurance is right for your situation.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen

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Benefits of Using Top Tier Gasoline

Benefits of Using Top Tier Gasoline

By Ron Haugen

Most drivers find it difficult to choose the type of gas that they use for their vehicles, or simply choose whatever gas is cheapest at the pump. Few follow the instructions that are clearly stated in the driver's manual for their vehicle, and even fewer truly understand what is in the gas that they are putting into their vehicle. Top Tier gasoline is one of the types of gasoline that drivers should familiarize themselves with and be looking to use in their vehicle.

Top Tier gasoline is a set of standards that a gas supplier follows with their gasoline - not a specific type of gas, such as "Unleaded" and "Super". These standards help to set their gasoline above the rest, as it has been proven that the gas is better for vehicles in multiple ways. Understanding the benefits of using it will help you to understand why you should seek out this specific type of gas.

Understanding Top Tier Gasoline

Before working to understand the benefits of it, one must understand what this gasoline has to offer over the standard, EPA regulation-meeting gasoline brands. The entire system revolves around detergents in the gasoline itself. The detergents work to clear out the deposits that may build up in the engine. These deposits can cause a myriad of problems for the vehicle and for the efficiency of the vehicle as a whole.

Top tier gasoline features a higher amount of detergents than regular gasoline to attempt to remove these deposits. The standard for it was created by major car companies, including BMW, GM, Honda, and Toyota. The companies work with gasoline brands in an attempt to make the fuel available across the nation.

Fuel Efficiency

Top Tier gasoline is going to clean out the engine, helping to keep it free of deposits. This is going to allow the engine to work at a more efficient rate. When the engine runs more efficiently, it burns less fuel. It is going to give drivers better fuel efficiency, allowing them to get more miles per gallon of fuel.

Power and Acceleration

When your engine runs at a more efficient pace, everything in your vehicle can be more efficient. Your engine is going to provide more power to your vehicle because it is clean - the deposits that would otherwise be formed would drain this power. You will not lose power nor acceleration power because of deposits when you use this type of gasoline.

Emissions

A clean engine is going to burn fuel more efficiently, meaning that it will burn the fuel as cleanly as possible. When you are burning fuel cleanly, you are reducing the emissions that you put into the air and atmosphere.

Top Tier gasoline provides plenty of benefits to drivers, especially those who own higher-end vehicles. The gasoline works to clean your engine, making it as fuel efficient as possible. Your engine will run cleanly, be more powerful, and provide faster and more sustained acceleration. These benefits of using it makes this form of gasoline worth the cost.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen


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