Fifthgear Blog

Car Alignment Facts

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Facts About Car Alignment

While it's often referred to simply as an "alignment" or "car alignment," it's really complex suspension angles that are being measured and a variety of suspension components that are being adjusted. This makes a car alignment an important suspension-tuning tool that greatly influences the operation of the vehicle's tires.

Out-of-alignment conditions occur when the suspension and steering systems are not operating at their desired angles. Out-of-alignment conditions are most often caused by spring sag or suspension wear (ball joints, bushings, etc.) on an older vehicle. They can also be the result of an impact with a pothole or curb, or a change in vehicle ride height (lowered or raised) on any vehicle regardless of age.

Incorrect car alignment settings will usually result in more rapid tire wear. Therefore, car alignment should be checked whenever new tires or suspension components are installed, and any time unusual tire wear patterns appear. Car alignment should also be checked after the vehicle has encountered a major road hazard or curb.

Front-End, Thrust Angle and Four-Wheel Car Alignment

The different types of car alignments offered today are front-end, thrust angle, and four-wheel. During a front-end car alignment, only the front axle's angles are measured and adjusted. Front-end car alignments are fine for some vehicles featuring a solid rear axle, but confirming that the front tires are positioned directly in front of the rear tires is also important.

On a solid rear axle vehicle, this requires a thrust angle car alignment that allows the technician to confirm that all four wheels are "square" with each other. Thrust angle car alignments also identify vehicles that would "dog track" going down the road with the rear end offset from the front. If the thrust angle isn't zero on many solid rear axle vehicles, a trip to a frame straightening shop is required to return the rear axle to its original location.

On all vehicles with four-wheel independent suspensions, or front-wheel drive vehicles with adjustable rear suspensions, the appropriate alignment is a four-wheel car alignment. This procedure "squares" the vehicle like a thrust angle alignment, and also includes measuring and adjusting the rear axle angles as well as the front.

Not all vehicles are easily adjustable or fully adjustable. Some vehicles require aftermarket kits to allow sufficient adjustment to compensate for accident damage or the change in car alignment due to the installation of lowering springs.

When aligning a vehicle, it's appropriate for the vehicle to be carrying its "typical" load. This is important for drivers who continuously carry loads in their vehicles, such as sales representatives with samples or literature in the trunk. Additionally, when a vehicle is used for autocross or track events, some racers will sit in their car, or have the car alignment shop "ballast" their vehicle to include the influence of the driver's weight on the suspension angles.

Car Alignment Ranges

The vehicle manufacturers' car alignment specifications usually identify a "preferred" angle for camber, caster and toe (with preferred thrust angle always being zero). The manufacturers also provide the acceptable "minimum" and "maximum" angles for each specification. The minimum and maximum camber and caster specifications typically result in a range that remains within plus or minus 1-degree of the preferred angle.

If for whatever reason your vehicle can't reach within the acceptable range, replacing bent parts or an aftermarket car alignment kit will be required. Fortunately there is a kit for almost every popular vehicle due to the needs of body and frame shops doing crash repairs and driving enthusiasts tuning the suspensions on their cars.

Recommendations

An accurate wheel alignment is critical to balance the treadwear and performance a vehicle's tires deliver. Regular wheel alignments will usually save you as much in tire wear as they cost, and should be considered routine, preventative maintenance. Since there are "acceptable" ranges provided in the manufacturer's recommendations, the technician should be encouraged to align the vehicle to the preferred settings and not just within the range.

If you are a reserved driver, aligning your vehicle to the vehicle manufacturer's preferred settings is appropriate.

If you are an assertive driver who enjoys driving hard through the corners and expressway ramps, a performance car alignment is appropriate for you. A performance car alignment consists of using the vehicle manufacturer's range of alignment specifications to maximize the tires' performance. A performance car alignment calls for the manufacturer's maximum negative camber, maximum positive caster, and preferred toe settings. While remaining within the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, these car alignment settings will maximize tire performance.

If you are a competition driver who frequently runs autocross, track or road race events, you'll typically want the maximum negative camber, maximum positive caster and most aggressive toe settings available from the car and permitted by the competition rules. If the rules permit, aftermarket camber plates and caster adjustments are good investments.

Many of today's car alignment machines are equipped with printouts that compare the "before" and "after" alignment angles with the manufacturers' specifications. Requesting a post alignment printout can help you confirm the thoroughness of the car alignment technician and preserve a record of your vehicle's intended settings in the case of an encounter with a suspension damaging road hazard.

Car Alignment Source Article

Antifreeze Coolant

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 18:49:00 GMT

Antifreeze & Coolant

What does Antifreeze Coolant do and which should you use?

Making sure that you've got the correct antifreeze coolant in the right concentration is critical to the health and well-being of your engine.

The coolant capacity of modern systems is smaller and the operating temperatures and pressures higher, while greater use of lightweight materials such as aluminium increases the risk of corrosion.

As a rule of thumb, only about 28% of the thermal energy released by burning fuel in the engine is available for driving the car.

About 7% is used to overcome friction in the engine, drive train, tires etc.
Another 35% disappears out of the exhaust, and
The remaining 30% has to be removed by the antifreeze coolant or the engine block would go into melt down.

Engines are constructed from several different metals and it's important to prevent corrosion and scale build up in the cooling system at normal operating temperatures. Around 60% of engine failures can be attributed to cooling system problems.

Antifreeze coolant is multi-functional and vital to the correct operation of the engine. A modern antifreeze coolant needs the following features:

Corrosion prevention
Excellent heat transfer
Protection from freezing
Prevention of scale build up
Compatibility with hard water
Stability at high temperature
Compatibility with plastics and elastomers used in the engine
Low foaming

Since around 1930 the necessary freeze protection and heat transfer has been provided by mixtures of water and ethylene glycol. This is available in large quantities from the petrochemical industry and has the added advantage of raising the boiling point of the mixture.

More recently propylene glycol has been introduced as a less hazardous alternative to ethylene glycol although this is much more expensive and some manufacturers have been reluctant to use it.

The important recent technical advances have been in the field of corrosion prevention, hard water compatibility and control of scale build up. Engine design has changed to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions as well as reducing weight and costs. These demands have made engine operating conditions even more severe, so that much more is required from the cooling system.

The antifreeze coolant used at first fill is chosen by the vehicle manufacturer as the most suitable. Subsequent service top ups or renewals should use a product meeting the original specification so the vehicle warranty is not affected.

Beyond the warranty period, it is still best to follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation, however the antifreeze coolant used should at least meet minimum specifications such as BS6580:2010 or ASTM D 3306. These are national standards that provide a basic level of performance for cars and light vans.

The concentrate is diluted with water prior to use and to ensure adequate cooling system protection a concentration of between 40% and 50% (by volume) is recommended. It's important to remember that vehicle cooling systems are sealed and, under normal circumstances, should not need topping up. If the coolant level in the radiator expansion tank drops, the cooling system should be checked fully.

Developments in coolants have led to the introduction of Organic Acid Technology (OAT). The corrosion inhibitors in OAT products last much longer in service than those in traditional antifreeze and are usually only changed every 5 years.

In spite of improvements in the quality and life expectancy of the products there are many older vehicles which still use traditional antifreezes and these must be renewed every 20,000 mile or 2 years. These coolants are cheaper than the longer life technologies and, although they do not achieve the same corrosion protection performance at the higher temperatures generated in modern engine cooling systems, they should at least meet recognised national standards e.g. BS6580:2010 or ASTM D3306.

Water quality

Although tremendous progress has been made in improving the performance of modern day antifreeze/coolants there is still one factor that can reduce their effectiveness – the quality of the water used for dilution! High levels of calcium and magnesium in tap water, that cause furring of kettle heater elements, can also lead to deposits and scale build up in the engine cooling system. If you are in a hard water area it is advisable to use distilled or deionised water in the cooling system rather than tap water.

So to insure many long years of service from your vehicle, keep your car's cooling system in tip top shape.

Contact Fifth Gear Automotive to set up an appointment to stop by for a coolant flush and fill with the apropriate antifreeze coolant for your vehicle.

Source Article

Avoid Engine Failure With Regular Timing Belt Checks

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:19:00 GMT

Timing Belt Failure Can Cause Major Engine Damage

The failure of a timing belt is a common reasons why cars break down. If you are familiar with the timing belt, how it functions and how to identify whether or not something is wrong with it, then you can prevent serious damage to your car and you'll know when to replace it. Knowledge about timing belt symptoms will save you from having to experience being stuck on the side of a road because of a broken timing belt.

What is a Timing Belt?

By definition, a timing belt is a chain or cam belt that is part of a car's internal combustion engine. It connects a crankshaft to a camshaft which control the opening and closing of a car's valves. Without a properly functioning timing belt, an engine's pistons would cease to function hence a car would be unable to run. Worn timing belt can no longer perform its job properly this is why old timing belts can lead to performance problems with a car.

Now there are a number of timing belt symptoms to watch out for: if your car starts emitting more exhaust than usual, if the car's engine vibrates so much that it causes the entire car to shake, if you experience difficulty in starting the car or if you hear strange noises coming from the car's engine. Those are just a few common symptoms that your timing belt may need replacing. If you experience one or more of these it would be ideal to consult with a Fifth Gear Technician as soon as possible.

If you've ignored the symptoms and your car conks out and stops running it will probably have been too late. By this point the belt has probably already broken. The amount of collateral damage to the other parts of the engine will be determined by the type of engine. Interference engines will tend to experience a lot of collateral damage during a timing belt failure. Valve damage is not uncommon during these cases. Non-interference engines tend not to experience as much damage but will still be costly to fix.

So remember, once you notice these timing belt symptoms it would be best to get your car checked. Waiting for the damage to become grave is definitely not something you'll want to do.

Timing Belt Source Article

Is It Time For A Brake Job?

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:51:00 GMT

The Importance of Brake Jobs

Avoid Catastophic Problems With A Regular Brake Job

Your vehicle carries some pretty valuable cargo. Let's talk about a major safety aspect of your car, the braking system. The braking system on most people's cars goes unnoticed since it is "out of sight, out of mind." That is, until a problem crops up, which is usually in the form of the proverbial grinding when you push the brake pedal. What are the most common signs you need a brake job?

Let's take a look at these warning signs in more detail.

Poor braking performance can occur for a few reasons:

Crystallized brake pads and/or shoes: The brakes have become hardened from heat and are no longer effective at grabbing and stopping the rotation of the brake drum or rotor. This condition usually occurs after the brakes have been overused, either because of excessive panic stops or "riding of the brake." The braking material must be soft enough to wear and grab hold of the drum or rotor to stop the car. Excessive overheating hardens the braking material and consequently, the brakes become ineffective.
Oil or grease soaked brakes can affect braking. Oil from the rear differential or front transaxle can get on the brakes from an oil seal that might have failed. Grease from a failed rubber boot on a front end component (such as a ball joint or tie rod) can find its way onto the brakes and cause this symptom as well.
Loss of power assist from the power brake booster is another cause of poor braking performance. It can occur due to a loss of engine vacuum, or deterioration of the vacuum brake booster diaphragm.
"Hot Spots" on the brake drums or rotors are hardened spots in the metal makeup of the drum or rotor that form from excessive overheating of the brakes. They resist the natural wear of the friction material (brake pads and shoes) that must take place during the braking process, consequently loss of braking power takes place. The pads and shoes have nothing to grip.

Squealing or grinding noises coming from the brakes: This is usually an indication of worn or glazed brake pads. The squealing noise comes from wear indicators, which come in contact with the brake rotor when the brake pads are worn to the point of needing replacement. This design "tells" you that it's time to check the brakes. Unfortunately, most people wait until they hear the grinding to get a brake job. This means that the brakes have ground through the wear indicators and into the rotors. If you hear squealing, get your brakes checked! Waiting for the grinding noise will cost you money! There are no wear indicators on the rear brakes. Have them checked every six months or when you have the tires rotated. NOT when you hear the grinding! Procrastination has financial consequences.

Pulling or Grabbing to One Side: This can happen for a number of reasons. Pulling can occur from maladjustment of the brakes, a frozen brake, brake fluid leakage, frozen emergency brake cables, or oil/grease leakage on the brake shoes or pads.

Loss of Brake Pedal: This condition is usually a result of brake fluid leakage due to failure of a brake hose or a rusted metal brake line, a worn wheel cylinder or brake caliper, or a worn master cylinder. A simple "once over" of the system will reveal what's going on.

Pulsation of the Brake Pedal: The cause of this condition is simply heat and wear. Heat and mechanical wear thin out the brake rotor or drum which causes warping. This warping translates into a pulsation (up and down motion) of the brake pedal while applying the brakes. In this case, re-machining or replacement is the answer. Make sure you have the brakes checked for wear if they are pulsating, because they are usually worn beyond their serviceable life when they get to this point and a brake job would be in order.

Clicking Noises During Braking: This has been a problem ever since disc brakes came on the scene. The disc brake pads are held in place by pressure from the caliper against the brake rotor. It's somewhat of a loose fit. The factory installs "anti-rattle" devices to stop movement of the brake pads, which will stop the clicking noise. These devices are made of spring steel. Over time they become brittle and break, allowing the brake pad to ride loosely in its seat, causing rattling and/or clicking during braking.

Excessive Drag During Acceleration: Ever feel like someone "threw the anchor out" during acceleration? Maybe it's because the emergency brake cables are frozen due to rust buildup and are not releasing. A simple way to avoid this is to use your emergency brake! Remember this very simple rule ... "If you don't use it, you loose it!"

Lit ABS Light: A plethora of cars with antilock brakes experience a lit ABS light. In this case, have the wiring harnesses and electrical plugs leading to the wheel speed sensors checked for wear and corrosion. These electrical components are subjected to environmental conditions. Consequently, they suffer wear from exposure and might need replacement or repair.

There you have it! Check your brakes every six months to avoid unpleasant surprises. High dollar brake work can be "head off at the pass" simply by keeping a watchful eye on your brakes.

Brake Job Source Article

Winter Driving

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:19:00 GMT

Be Prepared With These Winter Driving Tips

The best tip for winter driving: Sometimes it's best to stay home, or at least remain where you are until snow plows and sanding crews have done their work. If you crash on a snowy or icy road, you'll certainly be late — or worse. But since you can't always call in to work claiming a "snow day," it's better to learn how to correctly deal with driving in the snow.

I've battled snow- and ice-covered highways in two-dozen states behind the wheel of both passenger vehicles and 18-wheelers. I've performed hundreds of tire tests on snow-covered roads, attended snow-driving schools and done precision (translation: "barely in control") driving in the snow for videos and still photos. From this experience, here are some winter driving tips the average driver can follow to reduce the chances of a crash.

Winter Driving Tips

Get a grip.

To have adequate snow traction, a tire requires at least 6/32-inch deep tread, according to The Tire Rack. (New passenger-car tires usually have 10/32-inch of tread.) Ultrahigh-performance "summer" tires have little or no grip in snow. Even "all-season" tires don't necessarily have great winter driving traction: Some do, some don't. If you live where the roads are regularly covered with snow, use snow tires (sometimes called "winter tires" by tiremakers). They have a "snowflake on the mountain" symbol on the sidewall, meaning they meet a tire-industry standard for snow traction.
Make sure you can see.

Replace windshield wiper blades. Clean the inside of your windows thoroughly. Apply a water-shedding material (such as Rain-X) to the outside of all windows, including the mirrors. Make sure your windshield washer system works and is full of an anti-icing fluid. Drain older fluid by running the washers until new fluid appears: Switching fluid colors makes this easy.
Run the air-conditioner.

In order to remove condensation and frost from the interior of windows, engage your air-conditioner and select the fresh air option: It's fine to set the temperature on "hot." Many cars automatically do this when you choose the defrost setting.
Check your lights.

Use your headlights so that others will see you and, we hope, not pull out in front of you. Make sure your headlights and taillights are clear of snow. If you have an older car with sand-pitted headlights, get a new set of lenses. To prevent future pitting, cover the new lens with a clear tape like that used to protect the leading edge of helicopter rotor blades and racecar wings. It's available from auto-racing supply sites.
Give yourself a brake.

Learn how to get maximum efficiency from your brakes before an emergency. It's easy to properly use antilock brakes: Stomp, stay and steer. Stomp on the pedal as if you were trying to snap it off. Stay hard on the pedal. Steer around the obstacle. (A warning: A little bit of steering goes a very long way in an emergency. See Tip 8.) If you drive on icy roads or roads that are covered with snow, modify your ABS technique: After you "Stomp" and the ABS begins cycling — you will feel pulses in the pedal or hear the system working — ease up slightly on the pedal until the pulsing happens only once a second.

For vehicles without ABS, you'll have to rely on the old-fashioned system: You. For non-ABS on a mixed-surface road, push the brake pedal hard until the wheels stop rolling, then immediately release the brake enough to allow the wheels to begin turning again. Repeat this sequence rapidly. This is not the same as "pumping the brake." Your goal is to have the tires producing maximum grip regardless of whether the surface is snow, ice or damp pavement.
Watch carefully for "black ice."

If the road looks slick, it probably is. This is especially true with one of winter's worst hazards: "black ice." Also called "glare ice," this is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. Test the traction with a smooth brake application or slight turn of the wheel.
Remember the tough spots.

Race drivers must memorize the nuances of every track, so they can alter their path for changing track conditions. During winter driving you must remember where icy roads tend to occur. Bridges and intersections are common places. Also: wherever water runs across the road. I know people who lost control on ice caused by homeowners draining above-ground pools and by an automatic lawn sprinkler that sprayed water onto a street in freezing temperatures.
Too much steering is bad.

If a slick section in a turn causes your front tires to lose grip, the common — but incorrect — reaction is to continue turning the steering wheel. That's like writing checks on an overdrawn account: It won't improve the situation and may make things worse. If the icy conditions end and the front tires regain grip, your car will dart whichever way the wheels are pointed. That may be into oncoming traffic or a telephone pole. Something very similar happens if you steer too much while braking with ABS. Sadly, there are situations where nothing will prevent a crash, but turning the steering too much never helps.
Avoid rear-tire slides.

First, choose a car with electronic stability control. Fortunately, ESC will be mandatory on all 2012 models. Next, make sure your rear tires have at least as much tread as your front tires. Finally, if you buy winter tires, get four.
Technology offers no miracles.

All-wheel drive and electronic stability control can get you into trouble by offering a false sense of security. AWD can only help a vehicle accelerate or keep moving: It can't help you go around a snow-covered turn, much less stop at an icy intersection. ESC can prevent a spinout, but it can't clear ice from the roads or give your tires more traction. Don't let these lull you into overestimating the available traction.

Regardless of your driving skill or vehicle preparation, there are some winter conditions that can't be conquered. But these tips may help prevent snowy and icy roads from ruining your day.

Get Ready for winter driving with 5th Gear Automotive Services

Winter Driving Source Article

5 Winter Car Care Tips

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:56:00 GMT

5 Winter Car Care Tips

As the holiday season approaches, it is easy to forget about giving your car the tender loving care it needs to stay healthy. But with the start of heavy snow, icy roads and cold weather, now is the time to prepare your car for cooler weather with these winter car care tips.

Cold weather makes pliable material stiffer and more brittle and can make fluids thicker. If you live an area with severe winter weather, you know how dangerous the roads can get and the unique problems winter weather can create for your car.

So before you start making that shopping list, look through our list of top 5 winter car care tips!

Take your car in for a tune-up If you haven't taken your car to the shop for a while, now is the time to do so. A tune-up will help keep your car running longer and may save you money by detecting potential problems early.

Check your Tires On slippery or icy roads, your tires are extremely important to giving you stability and controlled handling. So before the weather takes a turn for the worse, make sure to check your tires' pressure and wear. You can place a penny on its edge in a tread groove to test your tire's tread. If you can see the top of his hair or any of the tires background, it is time to replace your tires. Do this in several spots because tires don't wear evenly. You should also take your tires in to get rotated and properly balanced. If you're in an area with particularly severe winter weather, you should consider purchasing a set of snow tires which are made specifically for snowy and icy surfaces.

Check your Fluids Levels Make sure you check that the transmission, brake, power steering and windshield washer fluids and coolants are filled to proper levels. You should use de-icer windshield washer fluid which will help clear light ice and frost while preventing re-freezing.
Make a Winter Emergency Kit In addition to the emergency road kit you should already have in your car, it is a good idea to have a special winter car kit. This kit should include things like cat litter or sand for tire traction on snow and ice, an ice scraper and de-icing liquid.
Check your Air Filters During the summer and fall, contaminants can get caught in your air filters and will eventually get caught inside your vehicle and cause problems. If you see any debris caught on the filter, it's a good idea to get the filter replaced.

Follow these 5 winter car care tips and you will we well on your way to having a more pleasant cold season, and a car that will last through many more to come.

Click Here to schedule your winter car care.

Source Article

Cold Weather Car Battery Tips

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:16:00 GMT

Car Battery Tips For Colder Weather

Make Sure Your Car Battery is Ready or Winter Weather

A Simple car battery checkup can reduce chance of being stranded

When winter is on the way, it means more than just cold weather for your car battery.

A dead car battery in extreme cold can strand motorists and in some cases cause life-threatening situations. The best defense -- and safety measure -- is checking the car battery and keeping it sufficiently charged during winter, according to the experts at Exide Technologies, a global leader in lead acid batteries for automotive and marine applications, battery-powered vehicles, and computer & telecommunications networks.

If the car is difficult to start, get a load check on the battery, and if the power is marginal, it's probably time to get a new battery. This type of test can be performed quickly by your technician.

When buying a battery, the principal consideration should be power. Automotive batteries are ranked by two factors, starting power, called "cold cranking amps" (CCAs), which indicate the power available to start the engine, and reserve capacity (RC), the number of minutes the battery will operate essential accessories if the alternator fails.

The more electrical devices in the car, such as electronic fuel injection systems, electric windows, sun roofs and audio systems, the more power the battery should have. If the car will be exposed to extreme weather, either heat or cold, the best guarantee against failure is a battery with a high level of cold cranking amps, at least 550, depending on the type of engine in your vehicle.

Several tips for good auto and car battery maintenance to prepare for cold weather:

Keep the car engine in good condition. Tune up and change the oil regularly. In cold weather, use multi-viscosity winter-grade oil.
Watch for terminal corrosion on the battery and make sure the battery cables are tight.
Ideally, park the car in a garage at night, providing some insulation against low temperatures, ice and snow.

Dont get stuck out in the cold this winter! Contact Fifth Gear Automotive, and get your car battery ready for the colder months ahead. Car Battery Source Article

Transmission Repair

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:03:00 GMT

Anyone who drives a car or any type of vehicle knows how a breakdown can cause multiple inconveniences. Breakdowns can be caused a number of reasons like a flat tire, brake failure, seizure of the engine and transmission failures. Most of these are expensive propositions but transmission repairs can be both costly and time consuming. As such regular maintenance of the vehicle involving timely servicing is absolutely essential. Irrespective of the type of vehicle, it is extremely important to ensure that the transmission system remains reliable.

Essential Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of the transmission system will eliminate frequent transmission repair work. Essentially the transmission fluid must be changed at regular intervals. If the vehicle is old or is being used all the time, the frequency of fluid change should be higher and there should preferably be an auxiliary cooler. The level and condition of the transmission fluid should be checked frequently so that it can be topped up if the level falls at any time. It is also necessary to check for leaks by inspecting the ground on which the vehicle is parked overnight. The area around the radiator and the air ducts should be free of any obstructions. The belts and hoses of the vehicle should be checked. At traffic stoppages, you should shift into neutral for automatic transmissions and release the clutch in manual transmissions. In mountainous terrain, overdrive should not be used.

The above mentioned tips are necessary to avoid costly transmission repairs. However, if at any stage, you notice a problem, you should not hesitate to take the vehicle to Fifth Gear Automotive and mention transmission repair immediately because a small problem might turn into a big one if it is not attended to at the right time. Although transmission repair, whether automatic transmission repair or manual transmission repair can be expensive, it is advisable to do so in the initial stages to avoid greater expenditure in the future. Moreover, regular transmission services will go a long way in getting better mileage and performance.

Finding The Right Repair Shop

Transmission Repair is a highly specialized job in which we know all about at Fifth Gear Automotive.

It has also been seen that most transmission repair shops do not have the right expertise to do this job like Fifth Gear Automotive does.

Replacement Or Rebuilding Transmission

When your transmission seems to be failing, you could either replace it completely or repair it. In order to save money, you can get the transmission rebuilt by an expert and skilled mechanic at Fifth Gear Automotive. You can get it done at a low cost and the down time will also be short. Having Fifth Gear Automotive rebuild your transmission will ensure you end up with as good if not better.

Transmission repairs, if done on time, can save you inconveniences, down time and costly replacement.

Transmission Repair in Lewisville area Fifth Gear

Tire rotation

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 18:24:00 GMT

Tire Rotation

Info about tire rotation

There are many basics of car maintenance we all do regularly: check and change our oil, wash our car, check that we have air in our tires. Most people overlook the importance of tire rotations and the usefulness of this simple procedure. While each car and tire combination is different, basic maintenance of the tires can assist in making your vehicle perform at its best.

Tire Rotation Significance

Tire rotation is important due to tire wear. Tires work differently, depending on their location on your vehicle. Rotating them on a regular basis will even the wear, prolonging their lifespan. A criss-cross pattern is used when moving the tires to their new position allowing the tires to wear evenly.

Tire Rotation Time Frame

Every vehicle is different, but most manufacturers recommend that a tire rotation happens every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Check with your owner’s manual for information specific to your vehicle.

Considerations

Doing a tire rotation is a simple procedure that can be done at our Fifth Gear Auto Repair Shop

Effects

Right-side tires have more exposure to curbs and other road hazards; a tire rotation to the other side of the vehicle prevents excessive outside wear. Front tires will show more wear if you are driving a front-drive vehicle. It is important to visually inspect your tires on a regular basis. Obvious signs of wear need immediate attention.

Benefits

Having your tire rotation done on a timely basis will help keep maintenance cost down on your vehicle. Evenly wearing through your tires will prolong their life and lessen the frequency of having to invest in a new set. Tires that are maintained well will keep you safer while driving.

Good Time For Brake Repair

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 19:27:00 GMT

Best Times for Brake Repair

when should I have brake repair done?

Brake repair is not something that can be postponed. If the braking mechanisms in a vehicle aren't functioning properly, driving the vehicle will put the driver, passengers and all other autos and property along the way at danger. In addition to reparations, it'salso very important to perform checkups and tune-ups. Want to know the most crucial times to take a look at wear-and-tear?

Here are some things to think about:

When a motorist begins to hear a grinding metallic squeal every time the brakes are pushed, this is a warning that something is amiss. The pads could be worn out or there may simply be dirt lodged in the apparatus. Worn out pads could mean that the amount of friction required to stop a heavy vehicle isn't adequate. Lack of pads could lead to the inability to halt.
Flashing lights are put there for a reason. That reason is to alert motorists that something needs to be fixed or maintained in their car. Ignoring those flashing dashboard lights will surely lead to trouble ahead.

Every automobile is different depending on the make, model and year. The owner's manual will have a maintenance schedule that is recommended for each particular vehicle. Adhering to it as closely as possible will keep the auto working properly, avoid the necessity for expensive tasks such as a brake repair and the warranties in force.

Especially if a person lives in a region that has extremely cold winters, it's important to service a car's brakes before snow, rain, sleet and ice set in. These devices have a hard enough time keeping up with the frigid whims of Mother Nature; make it easier for the brakes to do their job by having brake repair done regualrly.

When an individual or a family is about to hit the road for a vacation, it's important to make sure the brake pads, fluids and all other automotive systems are in tiptop shape. When a car breaks down in one's hometown, local mechanics are a known entity. If a mishap occurs in another state, city or town, it can turn a vacation getaway into a nightmare scenario. Don't take chances: take care of the car before a road trip.

If a motorist is used to driving in a flat area of the country, traveling through hilly or mountainous locations can come as a shock to one's system. In cities such as San Francisco, for example, one's brakes aren't just needed for stopping but for getting up a hill after a car has been stopped. Driving through hilly regions with bad brakes is an accident waiting to happen.

It's always wise to keep one's car, truck or SUV tuned up and in shipshape. Performing regular maintenance will increase longevity as well as improve functioning. The extremely important brake repair tasks must be tended to when squealing noises occur, when flashing lights appear on the dashboard, when the owner manual dictates, before vacations, winter or driving through mountains or hills.

Don't be a danger to others on the road. If their cars need brake repair should take their vehicle in to a shop they can trust.

Source Article

Do You Need an Oil Change?

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 21:01:00 GMT

Time For an Oil Change

How Important is an Oil Change?

An oil and filter change involves draining out the old motor oil and replacing it with fresh, new motor oil. The oil filter also gets replaced at the same time.

Should I get an oil change when it's recommended?

In general, yes. Changing your vehicle's oil is one of the most important things you can do to avoid bringing large bags of money to your mechanic later on.

However, there's a lot of controversy about exactly when engine oil gets old and how often it should be replaced with new oil. Because there are many factors at work — how you drive, the condition and age of the engine, the external environment you drive in, and stop-and-go versus highway driving — it's an inexact science. Owner's manual recommendations for when to get an oil change vary from 3,000 to 10,000 miles.

We recommend that you get an oil change every 5,000 miles. That's our best estimate. It may be too soon for many people and too late for a few, but for the vast majority, 5,000-mile oil changes will help your engine last to a ripe, old age.

You may want to consider getting an oil change more frequently if:

You drive like a knucklehead: jackrabbit starts, heavy acceleration or high-speed driving
You live where the climate is extremely hot or cold
You often drive on dirt roads
Your engine is old and burns oil
You frequently carry heavy loads (several mothers-in-law or other cargo)

Why do I have to do this?

Oil undergoes thermal breakdown due to high operating temperature. When this occurs, the oil becomes less effective as a lubricant. And without a good lubricant (read: expensive), parts of the engine rub together and wear each other out.

Oil also contains additives that have the ability to neutralize acids. Over time, these additives get used up and stop being effective.

Finally, oil can absorb water, dust and combustion byproducts and also hold them in suspension. Eventually, the oil gets saturated with this stuff and can't absorb any more. Then that stuff remains in the engine and can cause corrosion.

What happens if I don't do this?

Your engine won't last as long as it could. Oil serves many crucial functions, and clean oil performs those functions better than dirty oil. Oil is relatively cheap, and changing your oil every 5,000 miles is a very cheap insurance policy against major repairs down the road.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Yes, you need to check the oil level every few hundred miles. With your car parked on a level surface, remove the oil dipstick, clean it on your brother's best shirt and then reinsert it. Remove it again, and check the oil level.

Ideally, it should be right at the full mark. If it's at or below the add mark, that means you're a quart low and should add a quart of oil to the crankcase. If it's in between the two marks, you can add part of a quart to bring it up to the full mark (the distance between add and full represents a quart, so use that to estimate how much of a quart you need). Be aware, however, that since oil flows slowly when it is cool, the dipstick may not immediately reflect any oil you just added. So estimate the amount of oil you need based on your first dipstick reading, and then check it again later that day or the next day to be sure you're near the full mark.

A word of caution: Be careful not to overfill your car's crankcase with oil. If you put in too much oil, the engine's crankshaft can actually come in contact with the oil. And because the crankshaft is turning at several thousand revolutions per minute, it can quickly whip your oil into a froth — like the steamed milk that sits on the top of a cappuccino. Why is that bad? Well, the oil pump can't pump froth very well, and as a result, it can't get oil to the parts of the engine that need lubrication. The result ... a hefty boat payment to your mechanic.

If you are low on oil, you can add any grade of engine motor oil you like — though we advise you to use the grade of oil recommended in your owner's manual.

If you regularly run low on oil, be sure to report it to your mechanic. You may have a leak or may be burning oil — signs that you might be gearing up for a major boat payment to your mechanic.

Car Talk Tip: At some point, every engine starts to burn oil. Get in the habit of checking the oil from time to time, and you just might avoid having your engine melt down one day.

Oil Change Source Article

Is Minor Auto AC Repair Important?

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:35:00 GMT

Tips to Avoid Costly Auto AC Repair

During the summer, especially in Texas, the auto air conditioner goes from a luxury to a necessity. It would be almost impossible to function in our cars without the air conditioning, especially because the temperatures reach the mid 90 s and 100 s. Therefore, it is extremely important for car owners to make sure their Air Conditioning system is running properly.

There are many auto ac repair shops in the area that do these things, however you want to make sure you go to an auto ac repair shop that specializes in fixing Air Conditioners.

Many people don t want to waste their time or money going to a repair shop a couple times a year; however this small check up can pay dividends in the future. You don t want to be the person who gets stuck with an AC system that completely doesn't work. If you think it is a hassle going to an auto ac repair shop, imagine how annoying it would be to completely have to change your AC system!

There are a few tips one should follow in order to make sure their AC system is working properly. When parking your car, make sure you park in a shaded place so your car is not at an extremely high temperature when you return. If your car is really hot, this will take a lot more energy to cool the car

This will also significantly reduce the miles per gallon your car can handle, because it takes a lot of energy to work the AC. Also, it is important to make sure that your car is clean and dust free, especially near the cabin. This can result in mold and spores, which can damage the AC system.

When washing your car, you can open up the hood and spray water on the AC condenser, which will help spread the dust and dirt. This way, the dust and dirt won't be concentrated in one region.

It is also important not to put the AC level on max when driving fast, because you will not only waste fuel, but not receive adequate amounts of air.

Lastly, you should do routine maintenance a couple times a year to replace some of your car parts that are not working properly. This may be a little costly, but it is worth it when looking at the bigger picture.

There are also a few obvious signs one should make note of that can indicate the AC is not working properly. If your AC is on and nothing blows out, there is definitely a huge problem. You should fix this as soon as possible, because your AC system is also connected to your defroster, which you will use in the wintertime. There may be a problem if the AC blows colder air than expected, because the compressor may be failing.

Also, if your AC does not get as cool as it should, or blows warm air when it should be blowing cool air, you may have a problem with the leaking coolant. There may also be a problem if the AC blows colder air than expected, because the compressor may be failing.

If you also notice that your car is leaking, you may have a problem with the AC. Most cars have UV dye in their system that is neon yellowish green, which can be easily spotted. Some cars also have dye that is clear, which is much harder to notice.

Your car may not be that important to you, but don't let the problems your car may have get worse. It is always important to take care of our belongings, or else we will face other repercussions in the future. When it comes to repairing a car, it is best to put it in the hands of professionals.

So if you’re looking for auto ac repair be sure to come to Fifth Gear Automotive.

Auto AC Repair Article Source

Do I Need To Get A Wheel Alignment When I Get New Tires?

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 20:34:00 GMT

Why is Wheel Alignment So Important?

During my years at the service counter costumers who purchased tires often asked me, "Do I have to have them balanced?" followed by, "Does it need a wheel alignment too?" I understand why consumers ask these questions. Tire balancing coupled with wheel alignment can be expensive. So let's look at why balancing new tires and performing a wheel alignment are necessary.

Wheel alignment

The average price of a newly mounted and balanced tire with a new valve stem is roughly $125 per tire. That's $500 for the set of four. If your wheel alignment is out, you could lose that $500 in short order. That's why you should, at the very least, check wheel alignment before venturing out on a new set of tires.

So how could you lose money by not having an alignment done? By significantly decreasing the life of your new tires. The steering and suspension of your vehicle has wear points. They are bushings, ball & socket joints, and miscellaneous mechanical links. When the steering and suspension system is new and adjusted according to factory specs, the rate at which the tires wear is minimized and the vehicle corners and handles smoothly. Over time, the steering and suspension systems are jostled and hammered (compliments of America's highways). This produces wear in the parts listed above, causing the alignment to go out from factory specs. This results in poor cornering and handling, and a significant increase in tire wear.

There are three alignment angles that must be in line for the vehicle to handle properly and for minimal tire wear. Carmakers have built adjustment points into the steering and suspension that allow for re-alignment of the front end.

In Wheel Alignment There Are Three Alignment Angles:

Camber: is the angle of wheel alignment that measures the tilting in or out in reference to the top of the tire. If a car's camber angle on a tire is too positive then the top of the tire is tilting outward. If the camber angle is too negative then the top of the tire is tilting inward. This angle is adjusted mechanically. Conditions that cause excessive camber are worn ball joints, control arm bushings, strut bearings/mounts, or excessively worn wheel bearings. These parts must be 'tight' (not sloppy) to insure accurate alignment of the camber angle.
Toe: The best way to explain how this angle affects wheel alignment is to look down at the tops of your feet. Imagine that you're hovering above the hood of your car and you can see through the body of the vehicle. Your feet represent the tops of the tires. Now slowly turn your feet inward to an excessive degree. That's what your tires look like when they're toed-in. Now turn your feet outward excessively. That's what your tires look like when they're toed-out. This alignment angle is adjusted through the lengthening or shortening of a steering linkage part called a tie rod (found in both Conventional and Rack & Pinion Steering systems). Obviously when this angle is out or in too far, tires wear out quickly! This angle also affects whether your car's steering wheel is straight. If the steering wheel is crooked, the toe's probably way out. Excessive toe can be caused by worn tie rods, loose rack mounts, worn idler arm/s (some vehicles have two), pitman arm, drag link assembly, or a worn rack or steering box. Before you can accurately set the toe angle, you must have tight steering linkage parts.
Caster: is adjusted either by mechanical adjustment or by bending a suspension part. The caster angle [of wheel alignment] can be best illustrated by the bicycle of your childhood youth. Remember when you rode your bike with "no hands?" Remember how the handlebars returned to the straight-ahead position when you leaned right or left to turn a corner? This is the caster angle expressing itself. The caster angle of your car expresses itself when the steering wheel returns to the straight-ahead position after making a turn. It is also expressed when the car wants to wander right or left.

When having new tires installed, at the very least have the wheel alignment checked. If it's out, have the vehicle realigned or pay the price of another set of new tires sooner than later.

Wheel Alignment Article Source

Car Care Tips for Hot Weather Driving and Car Maintenance

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 03:40:00 GMT

Car maintenance in the hot weather.

The first warm weekend of the season traditionally triggers a symphony of cleaning products, vacuums and garden hoses. But while you might be in a hurry to put a shine on your vehicle, it's equally important to make sure it's ready for the warm weather on the inside as well as the outside. "The most critical areas to check after the harsh winter months are engine fluids, radiator hoses, belts, tires and brakes," says Pat Goss, host of PBS' "MotorWeek" and Washington Post automotive columnist. "Adequately preparing these key areas of the car before the weather warms up will not only keep you safe while driving, they'll help prevent costly repairs."

After battling months of snow, sleet and icy roads, your vehicle is undoubtedly in need of some serious care. To make your spring trouble-free, follow this 10-point checklist for safety, dependability and fuel economy.

Here are some helpful tips on car maintenance in the hot weather to come in Texas!

1. Remove your winter tires and rotate all-season radials-If you have winter tires, it's time to store them away. If you don't have winter tires, it's equally important to have all-season tires rotated or switched out for new ones. 2. Brake check-After a blistering winter, be sure to check your brakes. Warning signs include excessive grinding, squealing, screeching or chatter. 3. Wiper blades check-Wipers work hard over the winter months, wiping away dirt and debris on your windshield. Replace them in the spring before a shower makes it difficult to see. 4. Clean the underbody-In addition to washing the exterior, be sure to spray the underbody of your vehicle and underneath the rear and front bumpers to rinse away any salt build-up, which can lead to erosion and rusting. Use a high-pressure sprayer or garden hose for best results. 5. Apply a protectant-Any vinyl surface, such as the seats and the steering wheel, is susceptible to cracking, sun damage, and fading-so be sure to apply a protectant at the beginning of the season and touch-up regularly. 6. Change your oil-Give some thought to the kind of motor oil you have in your engine. Fully synthetic oils, such as Mobil 1, are specifically designed to protect your engine in hot weather, while optimizing your engine's efficiency and reducing oil consumption. (For more information about Mobil 1, go to www.mobiloil.com.) 7. Check all fluids-In the winter months, fluids are easily depleted as your engine works harder in the colder weather. Make sure to check, top off or replace all fluids, including brake, transmission, coolant, power steering and windshield washer fluid. 8. Pressure test-Assess the pressure of the cooling system, and examine belts and hoses for wear or deterioration. 9. Interior clean-up-Vacuum and be sure to throw away any unwanted garbage that has hibernated under your seats over the winter. Now is also the time to store your winter car mats in the garage. 10. Wash your car-All vehicles regardless of the finish (clear coat, acrylic, enamel, etc.) require regular washing throughout the year. To preserve your car's shine and protect the surface, wax your vehicle once it has dried completely.

"The warm weather is here-so be sure to follow these simple tips to ensure vehicle dependability in the warm months ahead," says Goss. "By taking care of your vehicle, it will more likely take care of you. And it will do it for a lot less money."

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Be sure to call us with any car maintenance or questions you may have on getting your car ready for the hot month to come.

Car maintenance is very important to insure you not having to dish out more money then you have planned. Most owners ovoid car maintenance and when their car presents a problem the repairs end up being more then what a routine car maintenance could of prevented. Stop by today and get your car maintenance!

Winter Auto Maintenance Checklist

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:29:00 GMT

Winter is upon us, and winter driving comes with it. While safety is an important consideration all year long, there are certainly some auto maintenance jobs and safety checks that are specific to chilled air and winter driving that are a good idea to check into before we're knee deep in the season. To be sure you don't end up a road popsicle, or even worse end up with your holiday budget on ice thanks to unexpected repairs, have a look under the hood to be sure things are ship shape. As with any change of season, you should go to your regular maintenance log to make sure you are up to date on the maintenance items that should be taken care of throughout the year. The change of seasons is a great time to go through some once-a-year or twice-a-year auto maintenance tasks.

Winter Specific Maintenance
In addition to the added perils of winter driving, the change in weather can bring peril to your car's systems. Freezing temps, salted roads and wintery precipitation can gang up on your car if you don't give it a baseball-bat sized maintenance session. These winter maintenance jobs will keep you out of trouble:

Check your antifreeze
Your antifreeze (the juice that goes in your radiator) is an essential part of your car's winter protection. Your car contains a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Make sure the level is full and the mixture is close to 50/50. Many service stations and repair centers will check this mixture free, or you can buy a tester for around $5. You did remember to perform a radiator flush last spring, didn't you?
Inspect your tires
The last line of defense between you and an oak tree are your tires. Winter is not the time to get cheap about your tires, so take the time to check the tread depth. The National Highway Transportation Safety Board says you need at least 2/32" of depth to be safe. It's been my experience, especially in winter weather, that anything less than 4/32" (1/8") be replaced soon. The old penny test is as reliable as anything to find out whether your treads are ready for winter action. Also, be sure to check your tire pressure. Believe it or not, they lose a little pressure when it gets cold, so pump 'em up.
Replace your wipers
Wipers? What do your windshield wipers have to do with winter weather? Two things. First, anything falling from the sky is going to end up on your windshield, and unless you have a team of beavers riding on the hood of your car the task of clearing it falls on your wipers. Second, in areas that see snowfall in the winter, you're also driving through that soupy muck that's left on the road once the highway department does their thing. This muck includes a lot of sand and salt, both of which end up on your windshield. It takes wipers that are in top shape to keep your windshield clean and safe.
Check your windshield washer fluid
You'll be using lots of washer fluid as you try to keep your windshield sparkly. A mile stuck behind an 18-wheeler will have your windshield looking like a Desert Humvee if you're low on washer fluid. *Tip: Don't fill your washer fluid reservoir with anything except washer fluid, it won't freeze!

Annual Maintenance Procedures
On top of the checks you need to perform to ensure safe winter driving, now's a good time to do some annual maintenance. These aren't necessarily specific to winter driving, but it's a good point on the calendar to get around to doing this stuff.

Clean your battery posts
Starting problems are a bummer any time of year. Regularly treating your battery to a cleaning can keep electrical gremlins at bay.
Inspect your spark plug wires
Cracked up plug wires affect performance, gas mileage and general reliability. Be sure yours are in top shape.
Inspect your brakes
Brakes are not a good area to cut corners. Be sure your brakes have enough meat left to get you through the season.
Check Your Engine Oil
This should go without saying and should be done at least monthly. But in case you're an amnesiac ... you should also do an oil change!

Cold weather safety should be a concern for anybody living in a cold climate. These tips will give you the upper hand when Old Man Winter tries to put a chill on your winter travels. If you're extra curious about staying generally safe in winter weather, the National Weather Service has an excellent Winter Safety & Awareness guide that covers everything from how storms brew to a list of history's billion dollar winter wonders.

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