Reading Auto Repair

When it's time for an oil change, you might wonder if synthetic oil is really worth the extra cost. Many modern vehicles now recommend or even require synthetic oil, but drivers often have questions about what makes it different and whether it’s truly better for their engine. Synthetic oil is engineered to offer superior protection and performance compared to conventional oil, but whether it's the best choice for your car depends on your vehicle, driving habits, and maintenance goals. What Is The Synthetic Oil Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant designed to deliver consistent performance under a wide range of conditions. Unlike conventional oil, which is refined from crude petroleum, synthetic oil is chemically engineered in a lab. It’s built molecule by molecule, giving it a uniform structure that resists breakdown better than its traditional counterpart. There are two main types: full synthetic and synthetic blend. Full synthetic oils offer ... read more

Your mirrors are your best tools for staying aware of your surroundings on the road. However, many drivers never take the time to adjust them properly. In fact, most people set their side mirrors in a way that actually increases their blind spots rather than reducing them. If you’ve ever had a close call while changing lanes or backing out of a parking space, your mirror setup might be part of the problem. Correct mirror positioning can improve visibility, reduce stress behind the wheel, and help you react faster to vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists approaching from behind. Here’s how to set up your mirrors the right way for maximum awareness. Start With the Rearview Mirror The rearview mirror gives you a clear view of the road directly behind your vehicle. It should be centered so you can see as much of the back window as possible without needing to move your head. Sit in your normal driving position and make sure the mirror frames the entire rear win ... read more

You flip on your windshield wipers, expecting a quiet swipe across the glass—but instead, you hear a rhythmic clicking, tapping, or even a slight knocking sound every few seconds. It’s subtle at first, then impossible to ignore. So what’s causing it? That clicking noise could be harmless—or it might be a sign something in the wiper system is wearing out or misaligned. Understanding what’s normal and what needs attention can help you avoid annoying distractions—or costly repairs later on. Why Windshield Wipers Make Clicking Sounds The most common cause of clicking when using the wipers is a slight mechanical interference between parts of the wiper system. Over time, joints in the wiper linkage or play in the motor assembly can wear, causing small but noticeable sounds as the arms move back and forth. Another possibility is that one of the wiper blades or arms is slightly out of alignment and hitting the edge of the windshield trim ... read more

The sun is blazing, the pavement is sizzling, and your car feels like an oven before you even step inside. Sound familiar? When the temperatures climb during spring and summer, keeping your car cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s also essential for protecting your vehicle’s interior and mechanical components. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through unbearable heat every time you drive. With a few simple tricks, you can keep your car from turning into a sauna on those scorching days. Use a Sunshade or Windshield Cover One of the easiest ways to prevent heat buildup inside your car is by using a sunshade. A reflective windshield cover blocks out direct sunlight, keeping the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel from absorbing excessive heat. If you park outside often, investing in a high-quality sunshade is one of the best things you can do to maintain a cooler cabin. For extra protection, consider using window visors or tinted film ... read more

Driving should be an enjoyable experience, but when you start noticing the unmistakable scent of burning rubber, it’s hard not to feel a little uneasy. That strong, acrid smell is usually a sign that something isn’t quite right under the hood—or somewhere else in your vehicle. While some causes are minor and easy to fix, others can indicate more serious issues that need immediate attention. If you’ve ever caught a whiff of burning rubber while driving, here’s what might be causing it and what you should do about it. Slipping or Worn-Out Drive Belt One of the most common reasons for a burning rubber smell is a slipping or failing drive belt. Your car’s belts, including the serpentine belt, are responsible for powering essential components like the alternator, water pump, and air conditioning. Over time, these belts can wear down, become misaligned ... read more