Conrad's Blogs
At Conrad's we want you to be able to make educated decisions about when to purchase tires, when to have your car repaired, and what vehicle maintenance you need to consider.
These articles are written by our tire experts and experienced technicians. We hope you find valuable information here and remember to check back frequently for updates and great information about the changes taking place on today's vehicles.
Car Care Guide: Lighting and Wipers
Lighting and wipers don’t sound like a big deal, right? Your car still runs even if the wipers don’t work. You can still get to the grocery store if a headlight is out. But your safety – as well as the safety of other people on the road – is at stake when these components…
Car Care Guide: Fuel System
Your vehicle’s fuel system is one of the important components that keeps it going. You have places to go and you depend on your car to get you there. Not to mention that you want it to have as long a life as possible. To make that happen, your fuel system needs regular maintenance. Let’s…
Car Care Guide Filtering System
Your vehicle has a filtering system that’s integral for it to run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. To extend your car’s life, you must regularly replace the various filters in your car’s filtering system. We’re going to look at what those filters are, how the system works, the external factors that affect the system,…
Car Care Guide Exhaust System
We’re not talking about your grandma’s exhaust system. Today’s vehicles’ exhaust systems are much more than an exhaust pipe and a muffler. It’s safety and emissions control all rolled into one package. You need to have your exhaust system inspected on a regular schedule and address any potential problems right away. Here’s what you need…
9 Tips For Getting Great Fuel Efficiency
There are a few tried-and-true ways that you can increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Whether you’re driving around town or traveling from state-to-state, these nine tips will help you keep your gasoline budget under control. 1. Keep up with regular maintenance When your vehicle is properly maintained, it will function at its highest level. Your…
5 Tips to Save Your Vehicle – And Your Wallet – From Pothole Damage
You may think you’re in the clear. Spring is coming and it’s “See ya, winter!” And then a remnant of the snowy season comes in with a bang. Maybe even a literal BANG – because you just hit a massive pothole. Did a piece of your car just fall off? It’s quite possible. Here’s what…
New Year, Old Car? Here’s How to Make Your Vehicle Look New Again
If you can’t always be driving a new vehicle, don’t feel bad. Not everyone can replace their car every year or two. Your car may not be hot off the assembly line but that doesn’t mean it can’t LOOK like it is. Follow these tips to keep your vehicle looking like brand, spankin’ new. 1.…
Car Care Guide Brake System
Safety first. It’s the most important thing when it comes to your vehicle. Your car’s brake system is one of the first lines of defense when it comes to safety. Brakes face a significant amount of wear and tear as they do their duty. Certain road and weather conditions can speed up the deterioration process,…
Car Care Guide: Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses. They’re two parts of your car that you probably don’t think about until there’s a problem. And by then? It’s too late and you may be looking at some costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your vehicle’s belts and hoses before problems strike. All about belts…
Winter Travel Guide: Drive Safely When Snow, Ice, & Severe Weather Hit
Most people would agree that the first snowfall of the year is visually pleasing. Building a snowman with the kids, sledding and ice skating are fun activities that require a fair amount of the white stuff. But severe weather is both scary and treacherous when it comes to driving. There are some important things you…
Time for Holiday Travel: Here Are 6 Ways to Stay Safe on the Road
Holidays are often synonymous with travel. And nothing puts a damper on your good, old-fashioned family fun like an accident. There are a few things you can do to make sure you don’t find yourself in this unfortunate situation when you’re on the road during this year’s holidays. The weather can be questionable, drivers are…
Car Care Guide: The HVAC System
You may not think about your car’s HVAC system much. That is until there’s a problem. Your vehicle’s heating, venting, and air conditioning system keeps the temperature and humidity levels in the right zone so that your car’s interior is comfortable no matter what’s happening outside. The HVAC also helps the defroster to work more…
Car Care Guide: Appearance Counts
It’s a simple fact. You want your car to look great. But the truth is, it’s not easy. Dents, dings, scratches, cracked glass, and dirty upholstery can all make your vehicle lose that new luster. If you feel like you’re constantly fighting this battle, you’re in luck. Vehicle protectants and technology have come a long…
5 Perfect Holiday Gifts For The Car Lovers On Your List
With the holiday season upon us, it’s time to start shopping for the car enthusiast in your life. But figuring out what to buy can be tricky. There are only so many car-related things out there, right? You may be surprised by what’s out there. Here are five ideas for finding the perfect gift. 1.Armor…
It’s Turkey Time: 4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Thanksgiving Celebration
The holidays are nearly upon us. Before you can trim the tree or light the Menorah, it’s time to get your THANKFUL on. Thanksgiving is on the way and you want everything to be just perfect, from your home to the food and the guest list. Just don’t forget to take some time to be…
Can’t-Miss Ohio Car Shows to Check Out This November
If you’re a car-enthusiast, there’s a lot going on in the fall. You can hit the road and enjoy the foliage AND check out some sweet rides. There are some fun events going on around the state that you’ll want to put on your calendar. Gather your car-loving buddies and check out these happenings. Springfield…
All-Season Tires vs. Winter Tires: Everything You Need to Know
Close your eyes and picture the snow flying. Like it or not, the cold weather is coming. Since snow is on the way sooner rather than later, it’s time to start thinking about all things winter. Including your car’s tires. Are you wondering if winter tires are the way to go? Or think your all-season…
5 Ways To Make Sure Winter Doesnt Get The Best Of Your Vehicle
Cold weather is coming, people. There’s nothing we can do to stop it. For the sake of your beloved vehicle, you’re going to have to face it with a smile – or frown – but face it, nonetheless. Here’s what you need to do to make sure your car’s up to the challenge, as well.…
October is Car Care Month: Here’s How to Make the Most of It
October is a special month. The leaves are changing, the air gets cooler, and it’s time for bonfires and apple cider. It’s also Car Care Month. Today’s your lucky day because we’ve got some ideas to get you started. Keep your fluid levels in check You already know that your vehicle has quite a few…
Car Care Guide: Wheels and Tires
Fancy rims aren’t that great. That is if they’re a distraction from some bigger issues with your wheels or tires. Don’t forget that your tires are one of the most important points of defense between you and the road. That means it’s important that you take care of your wheels and tires properly. Here’s what…
Car Care Guide: Dashboard Lights
1996. It’s the year that “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” lights became standard on new vehicles. This little dashboard indicator light is a big deal. It lets you know that there’s an issue with your vehicle that you need to have checked out. Let’s take a look at what your dashboard indicator lights are…
Car Care Guide: Brakes
It doesn’t matter how great your car make look on the outside. The interior can be spotless, your sound system can be jacked, and you may even have one of those massaging-bead car seats. None of that matters if your vehicle isn’t safe. And the most important safety system is your brake system. Here’s what…
Car Care Guide: Oil, Filters, Fluid
Your body needs hydration to function properly. So does your vehicle. But the most important fluid for your car is the oil. Crucial parts of your engine depend on your vehicle’s oil and filter so it stays clean and cool. There are other special fluids that handle the operation and protection of additional components, like…
Car Care Guide: Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses are the unseen heroes that keep things humming under your hood. Today, most experts suggest that they be replaced at regular intervals to keep you from breaking down. Losing a belt while you’re driving can be dangerous and can leave you stranded. For example, in today’s vehicles, the serpentine belt alone is…
7 Fall Car Maintenance and Clean-Up Tips
Fall is coming, like it or not. The heat fades, the leaves turn, and life starts to get busy again. After a summer full of road trips and fun, your car needs some care to get you and the family to all your fall activities. Here’s what you need to do. 1. Make sure your…
