Laurel Auto Repair

Do I Really Need Winter Tires? Winter tires can be a smart move for safer winter driving. Changing to winter tires adds safety and performance during cold months. Car tires come in all-season, mud and snow, and all-terrain to name a few. Winter tires have a unique rubber blend. Their design stays flexible in cold weather. This flexibility ensures better traction as cars maneuver through icy and snow-covered roads. The right car tire in the winter also enhances stopping power. Winter tires have deeper tread and special tread patterns. These designs help bite into the snow and ice, providing better braking performance. All-season tires do offer versatility but are not optimized for extreme winter conditions. In extreme temperature drops, all-season tire rubber hardens and reduces traction. Investing in winter tires can save money. Consider the cost of potential accidents or repairs from winter-related incidents. Winter tires help prevent these risks making them a cost-effective safety m ... read more

What Is The Best Tire Pressure For A Car? Are you curious about what the best tire pressure is for your car? The right tire pressure is important for safety, fuel efficiency, and a smoother ride. So, what is the right pressure for your car? It depends on the make and model. Tire pressures vary depending on the type of car. The tire pressure stamped on the tire itself is misleading. That is the maximum pressure the tire can hold. It is not the pressure you should use for your car. Instead, you need to look in your car's owner's manual. An easier place to find the best tire pressure for your car is on the label located on the driver's door jamb. This easy-to-read label tells you the proper size and proper cold tire pressure. Why is the right tire pressure so important? First, it impacts safety. Under-inflated tires mean poor handling and an increased risk of blowouts. Over-inflated tires result in a harsh ride and reduced traction. Second, the right tire pressure can help fu ... read more

Why Does My Car Heat Blow Cold Air? Are you experiencing cold air from your car's heat? Here are a few reasons why. Your car could have low coolant levels. Anti-freeze or coolant regulates engine temperature. Having the right amount of coolant ensures proper heat in the passenger compartment. Your car may have a thermostat problem. The thermostat on your car is in charge of coolant flow. It also affects engine temperature. You can also have your car's heater core checked. A clogged or leaking heater core will disrupt warm air circulation. Air pockets in the cooling system cause heat issues. Openings in the coolant system lead to air pockets. Since it is a pressurized system, bleeding the cooling system removes trapped air. Your car's water pump pushes the coolant through the system. A faulty water pump can affect circulation and cause heat problems. Last, your HVAC system could be to blame. The blend door that controls the mix from hot to cold may not function as it should ... read more

Why Is My Car Heat Not Working? As we head into winter, a malfunctioning car heater is an uncomfortable drive. If you're wondering why your car heat isn't working, here are some common causes. Check your car coolant level. If your car does not have enough coolant or anti-freeze, you will have a chilly ride. Addressing leaks promptly also keeps your engine running smoothly. A bad thermostat can also cause a lack of heat. Replace a stuck thermostat to allow proper coolant flow. It is an easy fix that keeps your car's heating system efficient. Your car also has a heater core. The heater core looks like a radiator. A clogged or leaking heater core reduces heat output. If you notice a sweet smell, it could be a sign of a bad heater core. Air pockets in the cooling system also disrupt heat circulation. Bleeding the cooling system eliminates air pockets and corrects circulation. The blower motor in your car moves air efficiently. A blown fuse, faulty resistor, or worn-out blower ... read more