Yearly Archives: 2022

How Long Are Shock Absorbers Good For?

How Long Are Shock Absorbers Good For?

Shock absorbers are an indispensable part of your SUV or car in Newark, NJ. Shocks ensure your vehicle makes proper contact with the road at all times. Additionally, they play a part in the movement of the springs and minimize road impacts. They are a crucial part of the suspension system.  Shock absorbers are almost like hydraulic pumps that absorb a ton of impact. As a result, you don’t feel any vibrations or unforgiving bumps on the road. Like many other car parts, shock absorbers do become less effective over time. However, it is difficult to give a timeframe or number of miles because every car is different. They last between 4-10 years, depending on how well they are made and the kind of roads you drive on.  3 Signs That Indicate You Need New Shock Absorbers Most of the time, people rely on signs or symptoms to determine when it is time to service their shocks. Below are some of the key warning signs you should look for: Poor or Slow Brakes: Worn shock absorb ... read more

Top 3 Auto Maintenance Items to Have Done This Fall

Top 3 Auto Maintenance Items to Have Done This Fall

Fall means color-changing leaves, football season, pumpkin spice lattes, and of course the change in driving conditions. With the weather cooling down in Newark, NJ, we may soon experience more rain and even freezing conditions. Before you embark on your fall festivities, it is important to keep safe transportation in mind. Below are our top 3 auto maintenance recommendations for the fall. Change Your Wiper Blades. It’s easy to take your wiper blades for granted until you actually need them. If it has been a year or longer since you changed them, it is a good time to renew them this fall. The weather can be unpredictable in the autumn, so make sure you have effective wipers to clear your windscreen. Plus, the rubber or silicone on the blades probably wore down from the heat this summer. If your windshield wiper blades are noisy or leaving streaks, it is time to swap them out. Monitor Your Fluids. As temperatures decrease, make sure all your vehicle fluids are clean and topped ... read more

Why Is My Engine Misfiring

Why Is My Engine Misfiring

An engine misfire is when one or more of your engine cylinders fail to produce power. The cylinders are where the air and fuel and mixture ignite. Misfires can happen when your engine is cold, warm, or intermittent, and they can occur for a number of reasons. Read on to learn more about what can be causing your car to misfire.    Engine misfires are combustion failures. Each engine cylinder must fire in a precise way and sequence to ensure smooth performance and efficiency. Some misfires dissipate, but you should never ignore the problem. Multiple misfires can cause extensive engine damage, so it is important you get the necessary repairs soon. How to Tell If Your Car Is Misfiring Weak engine power Problems starting engine Increased fuel consumption Increased emissions Popping sounds from the engine Manifold backfires An illuminated or flashing check engine light  What Causes Engine Misfires? Now that you know the signs of misfires, you should know what causes ... read more

Why Is My Car Vibrating When I Brake?

Why Is My Car Vibrating When I Brake?

Your automobile began to vibrate as you approached a stop sign and applied the brakes but you were not driving on a rough or a bumpy road. So why does your automobile massage you without your permission? Are you asking yourself, "Why does my automobile tremble when it brakes?" Sticking Brake Calipers When you push the pedal, brake fluid pumps through the pipes and is applied by the brake calipers to force the brakes against the rotor. Hydraulic pressure generated by the fluid causes the caliper to push the pads. If you just experience vibration in the steering wheel, the calipers may be stuck and not pressing the brake pads on the rotors. Issues with Brake Rotors Your brake rotors, which are substantial metal discs situated between the two brake pads of your brakes, are fastened to the wheel hub assembly or axle of your car. Through the braking caliper, these pads press on the rotor to slow and stop your car. The brake pedal activates the master cylinder, which supplies h ... read more

What Does the Color of Your Exhaust Smoke Mean?

What Does the Color of Your Exhaust Smoke Mean?

Your automobile’s exhaust smoke can be very telling about your engine and exhaust system. When you smell or see something off about your car, it should never be ignored. If you ever catch excess exhaust smoke spewing out your vehicle’s rear end, it is clear that you need to see a mechanic.    Depending on the color of the exhaust smoke, your car problem can mean different things. Exhaust smoke can be black, white, and blue. Read on to understand your car’s various smoke signals: Black Smoke Black smoke suggests the fuel and air mixture in your engine is too rich, meaning there’s too much gas or too little air. This can be caused by leaking fuel injectors or a filthy air filter.  White Smoke White smoke is a warning sign that your head gasket is leaking coolant. When this happens, it puts your engine at risk of overheating. If the coolant gets burnt, you will see thick white clouds coming out of your car.  Blue Smoke If you notice blue ... read more

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