rocket domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /nas/content/live/checkenginewk/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114advanced-ads domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /nas/content/live/checkenginewk/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114Most people love tall tales; the more salacious, the better. It’s how tabloids make their fortunes, capturing our attention with the latest sightings of Elvis, aliens, and Bigfoot that perpetuate gossip, myths, and misconceptions. The automotive industry isn’t often in the tabloid crosshairs unless Elvis is spotted driving a Ford Bronco along the Pacific Coast […]
Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) offer several advantages over their gas-powered counterparts, giving drivers a real incentive to explore these alternative fuel options. Not only are hybrid and electric vehicles better for the environment, but they can also be helpful for greening your own wallet. According to a recent study by Consumer Reports, the average […]
While police sirens might run a close second, few sounds can ruin a drive as quickly as an engine knock. One moment you’re headed down the road in peace, and the next your engine is making that tell-tale pinging noise that will have you headed straight for the nearest service station. Sounds can be subjective, […]
The check engine light seems to be a permanent fixture on your car’s dashboard, making you wonder if it’s worth another trip to your local auto repair shop. After all, you recently spent a few hundred dollars to have the transmission serviced, preceded by a small fortune in repairs after a fender bender. It’s been […]
Oil Starvation: The Preventable Disaster I don’t really know what triggered your need to learn about this, but it doesn’t matter. Either something gave you the heebie-jeebies and sent you looking for the causes of oil starvation so you can avoid them, or something terrible has already happened to your car, and you’re trying to […]
Even someone who’s never driven a car has probably heard the phrase “high-octane,” as it’s become synonymous with something exciting or heart-racing. But why is that, exactly? High-octane gas, in and of itself, isn’t particularly exciting, but it’s come to represent what it’s used for, which are high-performance engines, typically those found in muscle cars […]
The do-it-yourself movement has left many feeling empowered to take on tasks they never would have before. With that comes the need to expand their knowledge on a variety of topics, like how to restore an old truck, or ways to Plastidip your car. Of course, some things may still have you asking, “Where is […]
Tires are one of the most important parts of any vehicle, but they don’t always get much of our attention. The exciting and fun features like infotainment, transmission, and seat heaters are what drivers tend to look at. However, making sure you have the right tires for your environment and your driving habits is important […]
Turbochargers for engines are quite complicated but also surprisingly simple, with a vast array of different options available from many manufacturers. You’ll find some turbocharged engines coming straight from the factory, either to boost overall performance or to get decent performance from a small engine, while others are available as aftermarket options that you can […]
What makes a person a Honda driver for life? Stop by an auto repair shop and ask five different people, and you might get five different answers, but we’re willing to bet they all have something to do with the automaker’s engine. Be it performance, power, reliability, or affordability. Honda is a brand that has […]
One of the most common things people say when talking about diesel engines, particularly when comparing them to standard gas engines, is that they require different sorts of maintenance—in particular, people love to mention how diesel engines don’t have spark plugs that need to be replaced. That’s true; diesel engines don’t have spark plugs, but […]
While we often discuss the proper care and routine maintenance for your vehicle, there are a few items that we seldom think about until we absolutely need to. Among these are the windshield wipers and fluids that help us see when the weather becomes less than agreeable. Today, we’re going to take a dive into […]
The Toyota 4Runner is a staple in the off-road realm, renowned for its versatility and praised for being the last of its kind as a body-on-frame midsize SUV. All too often, the rugged looks of modern SUVs are nothing more than aesthetics, with their unibody frames limiting their prowess to the pavement. However, that’s not […]
If you go to a local dealership and find a Subaru Outback for sale, only a few types of tires will come standard on a new model. There’s some variation among the different trim levels, from the entry-level Base to the off-road-ready Wilderness to the high-tier Touring, but there won’t be a ton of variety. […]
When it comes to protecting your car from the elements, picking the right type of car wash is important. From self-service bays and automated car washes to full-service car detailing operations, there are countless options on the market claiming to be the best, but how do they stack up? Some drivers might prioritize speed and […]
For those living in colder climates, road salt is a necessary evil. While road or “rock” salt plays an important role in melting ice, providing traction, and keeping roads safe, it’s not without its drawbacks. While most drivers are eager to see their local road crews plowing snow and spreading road salt after a nasty […]
Besides the engine, your transmission is the most expensive part of your vehicle that might need to be replaced or rebuilt. The transmission is absolutely essential to your vehicle’s performance. It is so integrated into your vehicle that a great deal of time and effort is needed to remove and replace it. That’s the bad […]
The most important mechanical system in any automobile is the engine. Sure, there are plenty of systems that are essential, without which motion is impossible, but the engine is what turned the carriage into the horseless carriage. For most vehicles, the motor is still an internal combustion engine, with air intakes, exhaust manifolds, drive belts, […]
Life likes to throw us curveballs, especially when we’re on the road. That’s why it’s important to be prepared. Knowing what emergency equipment to keep in your car can make all the difference when the road gets rough. It’s always a smart idea to keep your vehicle well-equipped with basic emergency tools and supplies and […]
When hitting up your local dealership for a new ride, the number of options can be thrilling and overwhelming. Even a car expert can grow exhausted cycling through the different trims and accessories, trying to decide what’s worth adding on, and balancing taste and economics. A classic conundrum is the choice between performance tires and […]
Regardless of what kind of vehicle you have, proper maintenance and routine service are the most important things you can do to keep it running perfectly. This is even more crucial if you have a ride that you like to take off-road, since you’re putting your truck or SUV through much more abuse than the […]
