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April Is National Spring Car Care Month

April Is National Spring Car Care Month

Did you know that April is National Car Care Month? This month, we encourage you all to kick-start your car's spring preventative maintenance routine, especially if you slacked off during the winter. A little refresh can make a world of difference and extend the life of your vehicle. If you have plans to drive far and wide these upcoming months, you should consider getting some maintenance beforehand.   The Ultimate Spring Maintenance ChecklistReplace your oil and filter. An oil change is the most effective way to keep your engine operating smoothly throughout the spring and summer. Always remember to follow your automaker's guidelines for fluid changes. Check your fluid levels. When changing the oil and filter, our technicians will gladly check your other fluid levels. These include your brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, etc. Swap out your wiper blades. If your wiper blades ar ... read more

Should I Self-Diagnose a Check Engine Light?

 Should I Self-Diagnose a Check Engine Light?

Check engine lights can be daunting, especially if you're the average driver with little-to-no automotive knowledge. If this yellow light comes on your dash, you might question whether you should go to the auto repair shop at all. Today, we will answer the question: should you self-diagnose a check engine light?   While some individuals can do it at home, with the help of the internet, you can still have it wrong. The information can be overwhelming, and sometimes you don't know where to look. That is why we recommend taking your car to our Kansas City auto repair shop for check engine light diagnostics. Our facility has top-of-the-line diagnostic and scan tools to ensure the process is accurate and convenient. Also, our technicians are ASE-certified, and they have plenty of knowledge and expertise in reading trouble codes.   5 Common Problems That Can Trigger the Check Engine Light  Below are some of the potential problems we can find that could've caus ... read more

Diesel or Gas: Which Is For Me?

Diesel or Gas: Which Is For Me?

If you're in the market for a new truck, one question you are probably lingering on is diesel or gas. Both have their pros and cons, but they are dependent on the driver's preference. The type of truck most suited for you will depend on your budget and how you want to use the vehicle. The two main differentiators between the two engine types are cost and power. Cost It's no secret diesel-powered trucks cost more than gas-powered trucks. According to Forbes, the difference on average is approximately $5K. Though the initial costs of a diesel vehicle are higher, the maintenance costs are drastically different. It only costs slightly more because diesel engines are less common, requiring specialized skills. However, the additional cost may be justifiable for many diesel drivers because diesel engines last longer than gasoline. Furthermore, they hold a higher resale value.  Power While hauling heavy items can certainly be done with a gasoline-powered truck, a diesel ma ... read more

The Importance of ABS

The Importance of ABS

While not many drivers know what ABS is, it's vital to your vehicle's overall performance. Whether you drive a car, SUV, truck, or even motorcycle, knowing what it is, how it works, and what it does for your vehicle on an everyday basis can make a world of difference.   For starters, ABS stands for Antilock Brake System. The concept of this was first introduced as an anti-skid system for aircraft in the 50s, so the automotive manufacturers quickly tried to find a way to make it possible in cars. By the 1970s, American auto manufacturers Ford and Chrysler made it work, and to this day, ABS is present in cars today.   The ABS is part of your car's stability control system, and it is an anti-skid brake system. It was designed to assist your primary brakes and prevent your wheels from locking up in unfavorable conditions. By doing so, your vehicle's ABS helps your wheels maintain traction and adequately grip the roads.   The ABS is supported by multiple ... read more

Should I Have My Car Checked Before A Long Trip?

Should I Have My Car Checked Before A Long Trip?

The last thing you want on a road trip is your car breaking down on the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, with no auto repair shop in sight. Even well-maintained motor vehicles can develop mechanical problems on long trips. The extra miles place more strain on the car and make it more liable to break down.   Getting your car checked before a long trip should be standard practice for all drivers. What Should I Get Inspected? Tires Tires are often the most overlooked part of a car. Have your tires checked for slow punctures and bald treads? If the treads look worn out, get new ones. Get the wheels properly aligned. Also, check the air pressure, as tire inflation affects fuel economy.   Suspension and Steering After the tires, check the steering and suspension. Worn out or loose suspension affects the quality of your ride and wears out tires prematurely. The car may rattle or bounce as a result. Hours spent out on the road should be smooth and comfortable. To a ... read more