If you’ve been inside an auto parts store at any point in the last couple of decades, then you’ve likely noticed a particular trend: the massive increase in the number of little bottles filling aisles. While some of these bottles contain important things like motor oil and coolant, many of them offer a wide range […]
Just about everyone who drives a car has heard of spark plugs, but plenty of drivers have no idea what they actually are. Simply watching TV shows and movies is enough to introduce the term to most people – it’s a great thing to randomly blame engine trouble on when a screenplay writer needs to […]
This is an important question that not everyone can honestly answer “yes” to – yet it’s one of the most fundamental aspects of owning and caring for your vehicle. Getting an oil change might not be the most exciting thing in the world, but it’s a very important and simple part of properly maintaining your […]
At some point or another, while performing your own vehicle maintenance, you’re going to ask yourself, “Can I do my own alignment?” The short answer is: yes; however, it depends on your vehicle. Today, I’m going to take you through everything you need to know about your vehicle’s alignment, or at least everything you need […]
Part of the joy of working on your own vehicle is learning about the different components and parts in it and then discovering how beautifully they all work together, every moment you’re driving, to make your car function. One part that most people never really think about is the O2 sensor – that’s “O” as […]
When working on your own vehicle, it’s important to recognize that there are some projects that require a great deal of expertise and should be handled either by a professional or only once you have a lot of experience with auto repairs and maintenance. Just as important, however, is realizing that other projects are remarkably […]
The old maxim still holds true: if you take good care of your car, it will take good care of you. Proper maintenance and service, along with safe driving practices, will keep your vehicle running for a long time and keep it in great condition so it will get you wherever you need to go. […]
It takes a lot of different moving parts and mechanical systems, all working together, to get your vehicle to run and move for you. One of the most important parts under your car’s hood is the alternator, though it’s an oft-misunderstood piece of equipment. The alternator essentially provides electricity to all of the different systems […]
For many drivers, the check engine light can be the source of a lot of mystery and concern, indicating that something is wrong, but you’re not sure what. You might wonder if low oil can cause your check engine light to come on, and the answer is no. Low oil has its own indicator light […]
The suspension system of your vehicle is very important. Not only does it provide you with a smooth ride that keeps you and your passengers comfortable, but it’s also connected to your steering system and ensures you’re able to maintain control over your vehicle. When something goes wrong with your suspension and steering systems, then […]
Proper car maintenance isn’t sexy. But like any other kind of routine care or service from brushing your teeth to mowing the lawn, while it is not exciting, it is important. Taking care of your vehicle by following a service schedule and getting an oil change when it’s needed might not be thrilling, but the […]
There are a number of reasons that your check engine light can come on, and the best way to get it to go off is to fix the issue that it’s warning you about. The solution, of course, depends on exactly what caused the light to come on in the first place––usually an issue with […]
You’re driving down the road, maybe a typical urban street, small country lane, or busy freeway, when suddenly one of your Volkswagen’s check engine lights comes to life on your dashboard. What do you do? Stare at it intensely until you cause a collision? Begin screaming and hope it sorts itself out? Or start crying […]
