Auto Repair Blogs

ID/OD Inspection Vehicle inspections are necessary for road safety and environmental responsibility and, in the case of an ID/OD inspection, to ensure the safety of those purchasing a used vehicle. These inspections are essential to vehicle ownership, ensuring legal compliance and financial responsibility. In this blog, we’ll explore an ID/OD inspection, how much it costs, the state regulations, and where you can get one performed.  What is an ID/OD Inspection? An Identification Number/Odometer Reading Inspection (ID/OD) is required in Missouri if vehicle ownership is transferred to a buyer on a title issued by another state or country. Essentially, the vehicle ...

8 Reasons Your Car Battery Won’t Hold A Charge Many vehicle components require regular maintenance to ensure the best safety and performance. However, some pieces, such as your car battery, may last for some time, meaning you don’t think about them much – until they become an issue. Without a functioning battery, your car can’t start, and the electrical components of the vehicle – such as lights, audio, internal computers, and navigation – will malfunction or not work at all, so if you’re able to, we suggest keeping a spare battery on-hand in the event of an emergency. If your ...

How Much is a Car Diagnostic Test? When that ominous check engine light illuminates in the dashboard, it’s a clear signal that something is most likely wrong with your vehicle. To avoid potentially costlier issues in the future, it’s essential to have the cause checked promptly. Unfortunately, concerns regarding the cost of diagnosing the problem can deter many from taking this important step. To fully understand car diagnostic services, you must first understand what diagnostics include and why they’re a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance. Average Cost of Car Diagnostics Car diagnostic costs can vary, impacting the overall budget for ...

What Should You Do If You Have a Tire Blowout? Tire blowouts can be unnerving for any driver, but should one occur, staying calm and following the right steps to ensure your safety and get back on the road is essential. First, do not panic and follow these immediate steps:  Turn on your emergency lights to alert other drivers you are experiencing an issue so they can give you space and the necessary opportunity to pull off the road safely. Slow down gradually and pull over in a safe location. Gently reducing speed is ideal to maintain control of the ...

AWD vs 4WD Systems, Differences, and Benefits Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or looking for enhanced traction on the road, you’ve probably considered vehicles equipped with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) system. Both of these options promise improved performance, particularly in adverse conditions, and while they seem similar, critical differences can impact your driving experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the nuances of AWD and 4WD systems, highlighting their unique features, benefits, and which system is ideal for specific driving situations. What is All-Wheel Drive? AWD is a drivetrain system that distributes power to all four wheels ...

Tips for Driving in the Snow There’s no question that winter weather creates some hazardous driving conditions. Although staying off the roads when snow or ice hits is recommended, there will always be situations when not driving is not an option. In those times when winter driving is necessary, it’s essential to take the necessary steps and precautions to ensure you can do so safely – and are prepared for almost any situation. From having the right items in your vehicle to ensuring all necessary maintenance is up-to-date on your vehicle and everything in between, make sure you practice safe ...

What Causes Sudden Unintended Acceleration? Imagine you're driving normally, and suddenly, your car seems to accelerate on its own. That's called sudden unintended acceleration – a scenario that can be startling and dangerous. Understanding what causes this phenomenon and how to ensure your car meets safety standards is crucial for every driver. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of sudden acceleration, offering insights and solutions to keep you safe on the road. Defining Sudden Unintended Acceleration Sudden unintended acceleration is a term that evokes both curiosity and anxiety among drivers. It refers to a scenario where a car ...

How to Read a Tire Load Index Chart Tires are critical to any vehicle, ensuring safety, performance, and overall driving experience. One crucial aspect to consider is the tire load index for anyone who frequently hauls heavy loads with their vehicle or those looking to make the most of their vehicle’s towing capabilities. Understanding the tire load index is vital to your safety on the road and the longevity of your tires. Explore what tire load index is, why it’s essential, and how to interpret a tire load index chart for a safer, more informed driving experience. What is Tire ...

Types of Winter Tires As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the winter season arrives, bringing more challenging driving conditions. Navigating safely through snow-covered roads requires careful driving, but there’s one component that can make all the difference – winter tires.  Winter tires, often called snow tires, are specifically engineered to offer better performance in frigid, snowy, and icy conditions. Unlike all-season tires designed for moderate weather, winter tires are fine-tuned to provide superior performance in the most challenging winter conditions.  In this guide, we’ll explore the world of winter tires, exploring the benefits and types to help you make ...

Avoiding Expensive Car Repair Costs Car repair costs can be a significant financial burden for vehicle owners. Unexpected breakdowns or major repairs can quickly disrupt your daily life and empty your wallet. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of car repair costs, including the factors contributing to them, and provide valuable tips to avoid costly repairs.  Understanding the Factors Behind Costly Vehicle Repairs On the surface, the costs to repair a vehicle can sometimes seem excessive. However, there are several factors to consider when calculating the total cost. Mechanic Labor Costs: One primary factor that can drive up the ...