Posted on 4/20/2017
Choosing the best, whether synthetic or conventional, engine oil is highly controversial and debated. Motor oil is surrounded with myths and questions. Today we'll look at the answers to these common motor oil questions: What does 5W-30 mean? Why should I change my oil? What is the typical composition of motor oil? Are aftermarket oil additives needed? What does synthetic oil mean? Can you mix synthetic with conventional oil? Can synthetic be used to break in an engine? What causes sludge? Why should I use the viscosity grade that the manufacturer recommends? Check out the video below for the answers to these frequently asked questions. And remember, if you're ever unsure about a topic like this as it applies to your cars, we're only a phone call away
Posted on 12/21/2016
Suppose you live in an area where extreme heat is common - like here in the Phoenix, Tempe and Chandler, Arizona area. You only have to glance around to see the aftermath. Mailboxes are melting, heat-related illnesses are more common, and roadways are buckling. So just imagine what all that heat is doing to your car. In most owners manuals the manufacturer gives two sets of vehicle maintenance requirements, normal and "severe service" conditions. If you live here in the Phoenix area, congratulations! Severe service guidelines apply to your vehicle. The heat can be brutal but with a few extra precautions your car can live a long and healthy life. Battery problems are generally associated with the winter months. But believe it or not, extreme heat can be worse for a battery than the bitter cold. Vibration and heat are a battery's biggest adversaries and can lead to a complete breakdown. Granted, there's not much to be done about the heat, but you can double-ch ... read more
Posted on 4/21/2016
If your car's air conditioning goes out on a hot summer day, your commute to work and to run errands is going to be miserable. There's nothing quite like being stuck in a hot car in the middle of a traffic jam. If your air conditioning isn't blowing cold air, there are a few different things that could be wrong with it. Here are some of the most common issues and what you can do to fix them. It Needs Recharging The most common cause of an air conditioner not getting cold enough is that it needs to be recharged. You can recharge your refrigerant by yourself, but if you're not comfortable doing it, one of our ASE Certified mechanics are standing by and should be able to get your cold air flowing again pretty quickly. There's a Freon Leak Freon is the chemical that cools the air, so if there's a le ... read more