May 14, 2023
Most of us look forward to spring because the days are longer, the weather's warmer and we can finally get our vehicles into warm weather mode. Here are a few things that will breathe fresh energy into anyone's car, SUV, truck or van.
First thing is a good cleaning, especially underneath. If you live where salt and brine are used on the roads, it's important to get that off. One thing to note… if you hose off your undercarriage, be careful not to get your spark plugs/wires wet. You could notice your vehicle running rough plus the Check Engine light may come on. It usually dries out quickly, but if the engine light stays on for more than a couple of days, have your service facility check it out.
Next, replace your windshield wipers. They've taken a beating through the winter. New ones will have fresh rubber and you'll see clearly (and safely) out your windshield again.
Have your brakes inspected. That salt doesn't do your brake's metal components any good. Have a technician make sure your pads and rotors are clean and properly lubricated so they can stop you when you ask them to.
Speaking of wheels, it's a good time to have your tires checked, too. Road debris and potholes can take a toll on tread and sidewalls. It may also be a good idea to have a technician check your alignment since you likely have hit something pretty hard on a patch of rough road at some time during the winter.
Make sure your tire pressure is appropriate for the rising temperatures. As the outside air warms up, your tire pressure climbs without you adding any air. Make sure it's what the manufacturer recommends.
Finally, treat your vehicle's interior to a thorough refresh. Those floor mats and carpets may be white with salt; clean 'em up. Get rid of wrappers, drink lids, empty water bottles and anything else that's fallen down. And if you need to, have your upholstery cleaned so it looks and smells new. A clean exterior is nice, but since you spend your time inside your vehicle, it'll feel even better when your cabin is sparkling fresh.
Tuffy Walled Lake
784 N. Pontiac Trail
Walled Lake, Michigan 48390
248.624.4440
April 28, 2024
It's easy to get letters like PVC and PCV mixed up. PVC is a plastic that's used in a lot of things, especially plumbing pipes. And PCV is a valve that helps your engine burn off excess fumes rather than having them pollute our atmosphere. PCV stands for positive crankcase ventilation. When y... More
April 21, 2024
Today's vehicles have some pretty amazing technology in them, including a computerized braking system we all pretty much take for granted these days. Antilock brake systems (ABS) have been around for years but they help drivers stop in much shorter distances reliably than ever before. When you ... More
April 14, 2024
You may have heard the old saying, "My get-up-and-go got up and went." If your vehicle's engine's fuel economy is noticeably worse, your engine is idling roughly or stalling or your vehicle's acceleration isn't what it used to be, ask your service advisor if you might need your vehicle's fuel and... More