# Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care > EXPERT TIRE & AUTO SERVICE Search for Tires Schedule Service The Conrad’s Difference At Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care, we offer both Expert Tire & Auto Services – --- ## Pages - [Thank You for Subscribing](https://econrads.com/newsletter-signup/thank-you-for-subscribing/): Thank You for Subscribing Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletter! You have been added to the list and will... - [Thank You for Subscribing](https://econrads.com/texting-signup/thank-you-for-subscribing/): Thank You for Subscribing Thank you for subscribing to our Text Alerts! You have been added to the list and... - [Warranty Agreement](https://econrads.com/warranty-agreement/): Warranty Agreement Auto Repair & Maintenance Should you experience a problem or have a question, please bring it to the... - [Thank You for Entering](https://econrads.com/score-4-win-4/thank-you-for-entering/): Thank You for Entering Your entry has been submitted. We will contact you via email and/or phone, if you’re a... - [Score 4 Win 4](https://econrads.com/score-4-win-4/): Enter to win Conrad’s Score 4 runs, win 4 tires sweepstakes on Guardians Radio Network. One Participant per game. If... - [Info Center](https://econrads.com/tires/info-center/) - [Warranties](https://econrads.com/warranties/): Warranties Driven with Confidence At Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care, through our membership in the nationwide Tire &... - [Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care Accreditations](https://econrads.com/car-services-accreditations/): Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Accreditations BBB is the authority on trust in the marketplace. BBB sets and... - [Fleet Accounts](https://econrads.com/services/fleet-maintenance/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Fleet on the Road At Conrad’s, we’re dedicated to providing the right solutions... - [Ignition Wires](https://econrads.com/services/ignition-wires/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Wires? Gasoline internal combustion engines power most passenger vehicles, simply because it’s... - [Idler Arms](https://econrads.com/services/idler-arms/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Idler Arms? When you turn the steering wheel, there must be some way... - [Transmission Repair](https://econrads.com/services/transmission-repair/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Transmission Service? There are two major types of transmissions in most vehicles: automatic... - [Control Modules](https://econrads.com/services/control-modules/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Control Modules? Not even fifty years ago, automobiles were purely electromechanical creations, everything... - [Mufflers and Tailpipes](https://econrads.com/services/mufflers-and-tailpipes/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Mufflers and Tailpipes? At the heart of every gasoline- or diesel-engine vehicle is... - [Oxygen Sensors](https://econrads.com/services/oxygen-sensors/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Oxygen Sensors? First, a very short chemistry lesson in ideal automotive combustion: hydrocarbon... - [Rack and Pinion](https://econrads.com/services/rack-and-pinion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Rack and Pinion? Practically all vehicles have a power steering system, and... - [Radiator Repair](https://econrads.com/services/radiator-repair/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Radiator Flush? Your car’s radiator is a reservoir that holds water and... - [Radiator Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/radiator-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Radiator Replacement? The radiator is a major component of the engine cooling system.... - [Serpentine Belts](https://econrads.com/services/serpentine-belts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Serpentine Belt? In all vehicles, the engine is constructed a few hundred... - [Starters](https://econrads.com/services/starters/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Starter? Back when automobiles were first invented, the engine was started by... - [Steering Systems](https://econrads.com/services/steering-systems/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Steering Systems? Unlike trains, which have a choice of going forwards or backwards,... - [Thermostats](https://econrads.com/services/thermostats/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Thermostats? Engine cooling system thermostats perform a function similar to home thermostats. When... - [Tie Rod Ends](https://econrads.com/services/tie-rod-ends/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Tie Rod Ends? If you were only able to move in straight lines,... - [Transmission Transfusion](https://econrads.com/services/transmission-transfusion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Transmission Transfusion? Like manual transmissions, automatic transmissions step down the speed of... - [Universal Joints](https://econrads.com/services/universal-joints/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Universal Joints? Universal joints, often called U-joint or “Spicer” joints after their inventor,... - [Water Pump](https://econrads.com/services/water-pump/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Water Pump? In the internal combustion engine, the burning of fuel generates... - [Wheel Cylinders](https://econrads.com/services/wheel-cylinders/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Wheel Cylinders? Without a doubt, the brake system could be considered one of... - [Wiper Blades Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/wiper-blades-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Wiper Blades Replacement? Wiper blades replacement can usually be broken down into three... - [Blogs](https://econrads.com/blogs/): Conrad’s Blogs At Conrad’s we want you to be able to make educated decisions about when to purchase tires, when... - [We Are Expanding](https://econrads.com/we-are-expanding/): CONRAD’S EXPANDS INTO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Experience the Conrad’s difference at one of our newest locations! Conrad’s Tire Express and Total... - [Careers](https://econrads.com/careers/): Drive Your Future with Conrad’s At Conrad’s, we invest in your future with personalized career development, expert training, and a... - [Fan Belts](https://econrads.com/services/fan-belts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fan Belts? Aside from the engine itself, there are various accessories that run... - [Headlight Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/headlight-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Headlight Replacement? Headlights provide night vision and daytime visibility. Headlights come in various... - [Fuel Injectors](https://econrads.com/services/fuel-injectors/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fuel Injectors? All engines require three basic things to run – air, fuel,... - [Fuel Filter Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/fuel-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Fuel Filter Replacement? Gasoline and diesel fuel makes a long journey from refinery... - [CV Axles](https://econrads.com/services/cv-axles/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are CV Axles? The torque to move the typical front-wheel drive (FWD) is produced... - [Air Induction Service](https://econrads.com/services/air-induction-service/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Induction Service? An air induction service, or intake cleaning, is a method... - [Air Filter Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/air-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Filter Replacement? Most automakers suggest engine air filter replacement annually, or every... - [Alternator](https://econrads.com/services/alternator/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is an Alternator? When you start your car, it’s the battery that supplies the... - [Ball Joints](https://econrads.com/services/ball-joints/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ball Joints? Without the suspension, your daily ride would be just a bit... - [Cabin Air Filter Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/cabin-air-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Cabin Air Filter Replacement? Since the mid-1990s, the cabin air filter has made... - [Ignition Coils](https://econrads.com/services/ignition-coils/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Coils? To ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in a gasoline engine, powering... - [Compressor Service](https://econrads.com/services/compressor-service/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Compressor Service? The air conditioning system is nearly essential for a comfortable ride... - [Coolant Transfusion](https://econrads.com/services/coolant-transfusion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Coolant Transfusion? The engine cooling system serves a very important function, maintaining... - [Fluid Exchanges](https://econrads.com/services/fluid-exchanges/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex... - [Oil Changes](https://econrads.com/services/oil-changes/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Engine Running Strong with Regular Oil Changes Changing your engine oil is one... - [Tire Rotation](https://econrads.com/services/tire-rotation/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What are Tire Rotations? To help your tires last as long as possible, it is... - [Wheel Balancing](https://econrads.com/services/wheel-balancing/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Balancing? Tire balancing refers to the dynamic balance of the tire and... - [Alignment](https://econrads.com/services/alignment/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Alignment? Wheel alignment, sometimes called breaking or tracking, refers to standard adjustment... - [Flat Repair](https://econrads.com/services/flat-repair/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Flat Repair? Automotive tires are much more than rugged air-filled donuts, quite complicated... - [Diagnostic Services](https://econrads.com/services/diagnostic-services/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Diagnostic Services? If you’re having problems with your computer, you take it to... - [Battery Replacement](https://econrads.com/services/battery-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Reliable Car Batteries & Expert Installation Your vehicle’s battery is the heart of its electrical... - [Belts and Hoses](https://econrads.com/services/belts-and-hoses/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Belts & Hoses? Your engine is a machine in motion, converting the explosive... - [Brake Services](https://econrads.com/services/brake-services/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title How do Brakes work? Cars have brakes on all four wheels that operated using a... - [Shocks & Struts](https://econrads.com/services/shocks-struts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Your Car’s Suspension System A vehicle shock absorber is designed with a single purpose: keeping... - [Air Conditioning Service](https://econrads.com/services/air-conditioning-service/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex... - [Services](https://econrads.com/services/): Services Auto Repair & Maintenance Oil Changes We offer a variety of oil, lube, and filter service changes, using only... - [Locations](https://econrads.com/locations/): Our Locations NOW OPEN! 6 New Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Locations to Serve YOU! Hamilton, OH Fairfield,... - [Tires](https://econrads.com/tires/): Best Tire Brands. Biggest Tire Inventory. Lowest Price Guaranteed. Lowest Price Guaranteed Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care guarantees... - [Texting Signup](https://econrads.com/texting-signup/): Sign Up To Receive Deals by Text Get special offers and deals right to your phone by subscribing today! LinkedInThis... - [Fitment Disclaimer](https://econrads.com/fitment-disclaimer/): Conrad’s utilizes an outside source to compile and present the tire size related information. Conrad’s makes no representations or warrants... - [Terms & Conditions](https://econrads.com/terms-conditions/): Terms and Conditions TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE ON WWW. ECONRADS. COM THESE TERMS OF SALE (THE “TERMS AND CONDITIONS... - [Privacy Policy](https://econrads.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy CONRAD’S TIRE SERVICE, INC. www. econrads. com Last Modified: July 23, 2018 INTRODUCTION CONRAD’S TIRE SERVICE, INC. and... - [Financing Options](https://econrads.com/financing-options/): Financing Made Easy At Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care, we believe everyone deserves reliable transportation and peace of... - [Covid 19](https://econrads.com/covid-19/): A Message to our Conrads Family Greetings, Our Conrad Family is just that – a family made up of team... - [Newsletter Signup](https://econrads.com/newsletter-signup/): Sign Up To Receive Deals by Email Get special offers and deals by subscribing today! URLThis field is for validation... - [Homepage](https://econrads.com/): EXPERT TIRE & AUTO SERVICE Search for Tires Schedule Service The Conrad’s Difference At Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car... - [Contact](https://econrads.com/contact-us/): Contact Conrads X/TwitterThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Phone(Required)If your comment... - [Specials](https://econrads.com/specials/): Navigate TIRES SERVICE Tire Specials Print This Special TIRES BELOW $135. 00 EA $104. 00 EA. 21550R17 MASTERCRAFT STRATUS AS... - [About Conrad's Tire Express & Total Care Care](https://econrads.com/about-conrads/): About Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Care Care For more than 50 years, Conrad’s has delivered trusted automotive service, quality... --- ## Posts - [How Often Should I Change My Oil?](https://econrads.com/how-often-should-i-change-my-oil/): It sounds like a simple question that begs a simple answer. But, the truth is, there is no one simple,... - [How Long Do Brake Pads Last?](https://econrads.com/how-long-do-brake-pads-last/): How many miles you get out of a set of brake pads (with disc brakes) or shoes (with drum brakes)... - [Why Does My Vehicle Need a Wheel Alignment?](https://econrads.com/why-does-my-vehicle-need-a-wheel-alignment/): What are wheel alignments? Is it really a necessary service? The term defines the service: It makes sure the wheels... - [Lug Nut Torque](https://econrads.com/lug-nut-torque/): Today’s family car is a marvel of engineering and technology. Would you believe that the modern family sedan with a... - [Not Tightening Lug Nuts? You Might Lose a Wheel](https://econrads.com/not-tightening-lug-nuts-you-might-lose-a-wheel/): The consequences of improperly tightening or not tightening lug nuts enough are obvious – the wheel comes off at an... - [My Car Rides Fine, So Why Should I Replace the Shocks and Struts?](https://econrads.com/replace-shocks-struts/): This is a question every technician has heard after recommending replacement of the MacPherson struts and/or shock absorbers on a... - [Power Flushes, Fluid Exchanges and Other Super Heroes, Part 1](https://econrads.com/power-flushes-fluid-exchanges-and-other-super-heroes-part-1/): Have you checked the level and condition of the various fluids under the hood of your vehicle? You haven’t? That’s... - [Power Flushes, Fluid Exchanges and Other Super Heroes, Part 2](https://econrads.com/power-flushes-fluid-exchanges-and-other-super-heroes-part-2/): Radiator fluid: protect your engine from freezing and overheating with the right mixture of automotive fluids. Radiator fluid (common name,... - [Fluid Exchanges, Part 1](https://econrads.com/fluid-exchanges-part-1/): AUTOMOTIVE FLUID EXCHANGE: AN IMPORTANT PART OF VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND UPKEEP Overview of your automotive fluid exchange The fluids inside... - [Fluid Exchanges, Part 2](https://econrads.com/fluid-exchanges-part-2/): Exchange vehicle fluids on a schedule recommended by the manufacturer to keep your car in the best condition possible. Here... - [Power steering: how power steering helps you drive your vehicle](https://econrads.com/power-steering-how-power-steering-helps-you-drive-your-vehicle/): What does Power Steering do? Power Steering helps you to turn your vehicle while operating it at low speeds. The... - [Replacement tires: if it's time to buy two new tires, be sure to follow these installation and driving safety tips.](https://econrads.com/replacement-tires/): Ready to buy tires – but just two of them? If your replacement tires are the same size and construction... - [TIRE COMPARISON: How Do Snow Tires Compare With All-Season Tires?](https://econrads.com/tire-comparison/): Before the late 1970s, drivers who lived in areas of the country that get significant snow in the winter had... - [Tire Speed Ratings](https://econrads.com/tire-speed-ratings/): In the last 20 years or so, most if not all vehicle manufacturers have started to equip their models with... - [Discount Tires: What Does That Really Mean?](https://econrads.com/discount-tires-info/): Who doesn’t want the best quality and value for the lowest price? And whether we are shopping for something exotic... - [Is a Tire Road Hazard Warranty a Good Idea?](https://econrads.com/road-hazard-warranty/): Many tire dealers offer some kind of optional road hazard warranty when you purchase replacement tires for your passenger vehicle,... - [Needing tire information? Find the answers to your important questions here.](https://econrads.com/need-tire-info/): Here are some important tips and tire information to keep in mind that, if followed, will help you get longer... - [We Ask Tire Questions: Why?](https://econrads.com/tire-questions/): Why is it so hard to get tire prices? When you call most tire stores shopping for tires, expect them... - [Tips for driving on wet roadways.](https://econrads.com/tips-for-driving-on-wet-roadways/): Driving during a rainstorm or snowstorm can be very scary. Your vision is obstructed making it harder to drive. What... - [Learn about how tires should be rotated and balanced](https://econrads.com/learn-rotated-and-balanced/): What is tire rotation? Tire rotation is the process of moving wheels and tires from one position to another. This... - [Proper Tire Inflation - Learn About Tire Pressure](https://econrads.com/proper-tire-inflation/): Maintaining proper tire pressure is a key part of ensuring performance, safety and efficiency of your tires. It’s a simple... - [What do the numbers on the side of my tire represent?](https://econrads.com/tire-number-meanings/): No idea what all those numbers and letters mean on the side of your tire? They say a lot about... - [Safety Driving Tips: What to do if your vehicle starts to slide and how tires play a role.](https://econrads.com/safety-driving-tips/): Over steering is when your rear tires lose traction before your front tires and you start to spin. The most... - [Car Care Guide: Fuel System](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Lighting and Wipers](https://econrads.com/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.... - [In The Market For New Tires Read These 7 Tips First](https://econrads.com/in-the-market-for-new-tires-read-these-7-tips-first/): When it’s time to buy new tires, you need to know what to look for. And you have to know... - [10 Tips To Get Your Vehicle Ready For Spring Driving](https://econrads.com/10-tips-to-get-your-vehicle-ready-for-spring-driving/): As a responsible car owner, you know how important it is to get your car ready for spring. You want... - [5 Tips to Save Your Vehicle – And Your Wallet – From Pothole Damage](https://econrads.com/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... - [9 Tips For Getting Great Fuel Efficiency](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide Exhaust System](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide Filtering System](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Belts and Hoses](https://econrads.com/car-care-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... - [Car Care Guide Brake System](https://econrads.com/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... - [New Year, Old Car? Here’s How to Make Your Vehicle Look New Again](https://econrads.com/new-year-old-car-heres-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... - [Winter Travel Guide: Drive Safely When Snow, Ice, & Severe Weather Hit](https://econrads.com/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,... - [5 Perfect Holiday Gifts For The Car Lovers On Your List](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Appearance Counts](https://econrads.com/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,... - [Car Care Guide: The HVAC System](https://econrads.com/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,... - [Time for Holiday Travel: Here Are 6 Ways to Stay Safe on the Road](https://econrads.com/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.... - [5 Ways To Make Sure Winter Doesnt Get The Best Of Your Vehicle](https://econrads.com/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,... - [All-Season Tires vs. Winter Tires: Everything You Need to Know](https://econrads.com/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... - [Can’t-Miss Ohio Car Shows to Check Out This November](https://econrads.com/cant-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... - [It’s Turkey Time: 4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Thanksgiving Celebration](https://econrads.com/its-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... - [Car Care Guide: Brakes](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Dashboard Lights](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Wheels and Tires](https://econrads.com/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.... - [October is Car Care Month: Here’s How to Make the Most of It](https://econrads.com/october-is-car-care-month-heres-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... - [4 Back To School Car Care Tips For Students](https://econrads.com/4-back-to-school-car-care-tips-for-students/): Back-to-School time is busy for both parents and students. Sports practices, clubs, classes, and endless activities. But your student can’t... - [7 Fall Car Maintenance and Clean-Up Tips](https://econrads.com/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.... - [Car Care Guide: Belts and Hoses](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Oil, Filters, Fluid](https://econrads.com/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... - [Car Care Guide: Engine Performance](https://econrads.com/car-care-guide-engine-performance/): It’s Car Care 101. Your vehicle won’t perform the way you want it to if your engine isn’t well-maintained. The... - [Car Care Guide: Vehicle Components/Service](https://econrads.com/car-care-guide-vehicle-components-service/): Buying a vehicle is a big investment. You wouldn’t take $25,000 and toss it in the trash can, right? But... - [Summers’s Hard on Your Car: Here’s How to Care for It](https://econrads.com/summers-hard-on-your-car-heres-how-to-care-for-it/): Summer’s big selling point is the warmth. While it’s a nice respite from the chillier (and downright COLD) weather, it... - [Use This Pre-Trip Car Checklist for Your Final Summer Travels](https://econrads.com/use-this-pre-trip-car-checklist-for-your-final-summer-travels/): Time flies when you’re having fun. But it’s not too late to enjoy a road trip before the sun sets... - [5 Summer Car Care Tips You Need To Show Your Vehicle The Love](https://econrads.com/5-summer-car-care-tips-you-need-to-show-your-vehicle-the-love/): The season of sunshine and road trips is here. Sweet summertime. Maybe you’ve been adding to your bucket list of... - [Stuff Happens Heres What To Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down](https://econrads.com/stuff-happens-heres-what-to-do-if-your-vehicle-breaks-down/): You take good care of your vehicle. You’re careful to follow the maintenance guidelines recommended by your owner’s manual and... - [The Cost of an Accident vs. Regular Vehicle Maintenance](https://econrads.com/the-cost-of-an-accident-vs-regular-vehicle-maintenance/): Life is expensive. There are bills to pay and groceries to buy. No matter how big or small your family... - [Time For Service Follow This Vehicle Maintenance Timeline](https://econrads.com/time-for-service-follow-this-vehicle-maintenance-timeline/): Owning a vehicle is a big responsibility. 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You... - [5 Tips for Keeping Your Windshield Wipers in Tip-Top Shape](https://econrads.com/5-tips-for-keeping-your-windshield-wipers-in-tip-top-shape/): Your windshield wipers play a huge role in keeping you safe on the road. Not only is driving with a... - [The 2 Most Common Issues With Vehicle Air Conditioners – and What You Can Do About It](https://econrads.com/the-2-most-common-issues-with-vehicle-air-conditioners-and-what-you-can-do-about-it/): Warm weather will be here before you know it. Imagine loading everyone into the car for a road trip and... - [The Best Advice You Could Ever Get About Steering and Suspension](https://econrads.com/the-best-advice-you-could-ever-get-about-steering-and-suspension/): Steering and suspension. They’re separate systems that are usually spoken of together because they work in tandem to keep your... - [The Ultimate Guide to Tire Repair](https://econrads.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-tire-repair/): Ugh! A flat. 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You have been added to the list and will receive the next newsletter we send out. --- Thank You for Subscribing Thank you for subscribing to our Text Alerts! You have been added to the list and will receive the next text mesasge we send out. --- Warranty Agreement Auto Repair & Maintenance Should you experience a problem or have a question, please bring it to the Store Leader's attention. The Store Leader has the authority and the responsibility to handle most situations immediately. Should the Store Leader be unable to resolve your problem or answer your question, you may call 216-941-2247 or toll free at 1-800-811-0908. If you would like to write, please do so and mail to Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care Attn: Customer Service Department 14575 Lorain Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44111 WARRANTY AGREEMENT Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care warrants the performed repairs for the warranty period specified on the front side of this invoice. If no warranty period is specified, the performed repairs would be warranted for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first from the original date of purchase. If you experience a warranty related problem with the repaired vehicle as the result of a defect in either workmanship or material during the warranty period, Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care will perform the repairs again, including parts and labor, free of charge under the terms of the warranty as outlined. This warranty does not apply to vehicles used commercially. All services performed for commercial use vehicles will be covered locally by Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care for a period of 90 days or 4,000 miles, whichever comes first. For those commercial vehicles registered under the Conrad's Fleet Services (CFS) Program, your vehicle repairs will... --- Thank You for Entering Your entry has been submitted. We will contact you via email and/or phone, if you're a winner. Good luck! --- Enter to win Conrad's Score 4 runs, win 4 tires sweepstakes on Guardians Radio Network. One Participant per game. If the Guardians score four or more runs within the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th inning of a Cleveland Guardians game that day, the Participant selected for that game will receive a set of four new tires courtesy of Conrad's with a maximum value of $800. The four or more runs must be scored within one inning during an official game. * Set of (4) new Bridgestone tires courtesy of Conrad's. Up to $800 value including standard installation and tire fee. Winner responsible for any additional amount over $800 including sales tax. Score 4 Win 4 --- Warranties Driven with Confidence At Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care, through our membership in the nationwide Tire & Service Network, we offer customers a free-of-charge, 24/7, 365 days-a-year Roadside Assistance Program on EVERY VEHICLE we SERVICE* - so you can drive with confidence knowing you can access help any time, day or night: 365 DAYS A YEAR, NATIONWIDE Flat tire changing assistance Battery jump-start Fluid delivery (fuel,* oil, or water) Lock-out assistance Vehicle towing Program allows for two claims per available 12 months from invoice date Tire & Service Network Program Features & Benefits Reimbursement of two claims per 12-month period for covered roadside assistance (up to $100 per covered vehicle) - anywhere in the United States and Canada US customers: Call designated toll-free roadside assistance dispatch number 800-426-0733 Canadian customers: Call roadside assistance provider of their choice Credit card required to arrange for service provider dispatch 60-day filing period for customer reimbursement claim Ultimate Road Hazard Protection Add the Free Tire Guarantee Installation Package for ultimate peace of mind - coast to coast. Pricing: $13 per tire for tires under $130 each, or 10% of the tire price for tires over $130. We cover your damaged tires caused by road hazards for 3 full years or until the tire is worn down to 3/32" of tread (whichever occurs first). If damage occurs, Conrad's will replace your tire with one of like kind and quality at no charge. You'll only pay for mounting, valve stem, and wheel balance.... --- Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care Accreditations BBB is the authority on trust in the marketplace. BBB sets and upholds high standards for ethical marketplace behavior. BBB accreditation is a coveted honor earned by elite businesses and charities. BBB is the preeminent resource to turn to for objective, unbiased information on businesses and charities. AAA's Approved Auto Repair facilities have met and maintained AAA's tough performance standards while providing reliable and courteous service. AAA requires facilities to employ trained technicians that have earned certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, maintain state-of-the art tools and equipment to complete a broad range of repairs, and adhere to customer service satisfaction criteria. ASE has years of experience helping the automotive industry verify the skills and knowledge of the technicians working at dealerships, independent repair shops, collision shops, franchises, fleets, and more. Car owners and the service and repair industry regard ASE certification as the standard measure of competency and a guide to quality auto repairs. The Plain Dealer enlisted an independent workplace consultant to determine the top workplaces in Northeast Ohio, based entirely on ratings by their employees. Employees were asked to indicate, on a seven-point scale, how much they agreed with statements such as "I have confidence in the leader of this organization" and "My manager listens to me. " The survey company then correlated and tested the responses for accuracy before ranking the 129 participating employers. --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Fleet on the Road At Conrad's, we're dedicated to providing the right solutions and services for your fleet. Our Conrad's Fleet Service experts offer high-quality, consistent service to help keep your fleet on the road & rolling. From maintenance & repairs to a wide selection of top-selling tires, our Conrad's Fleet Service program was designed with a first-hand understanding of the need for minimal down time. SAVINGS Save 10% Off All Services Save 10% Off All Tires FREE Tire Rotation with Oil Change FREE Alignment & Suspension Check Convenience One-Stop Shop: from oil changes and maintenance to engines & tires. Over 50 locations in OH, PA, and MI Free Emergency Towing (to nearest Conrad's location) Lifetime Protection Plans Electronic Vehicle Repair History with CarFax Online Appointment Scheduling Easy Payment Options FOR INFORMATION Call, Text, or Email Richard Winklerat 216-308-7451 or rwinkler@econrads. com Plus, Servicing National Accounts New Here? Sign Up Today! Already a Customer? Schedule an Appointment --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Wires? Gasoline internal combustion engines power most passenger vehicles, simply because it's the most-popular fuel around and the ignition system is reliable. For the compressed air and gasoline mixture to burn, it needs a spark. The energy for the spark is generated in the ignition coil, ramping up 12 V from the alternator to as much as 20,000 V, for just 0. 8 ms to 2. 4 ms, sending it through ignition wires to the spark plug, in the cylinder head. Older vehicles used a single coil and a distributor to send spark energy through individual ignition wires to each spark plug, so there were as many ignition wires as there were cylinders, plus one for the coil. Newer distributor-less ignition systems (DIS) did away with the distributor, instead using multiple coils, controlled electronically, to fire the spark plug. These DIS systems have as many ignition wires as cylinders. Some waste-spark DIS used a single coil per pair of cylinders, and some dual ignition systems used two spark plugs, and therefore two ignition wires, per cylinder. DIS coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems shortened the distance, mounting the ignition coil directly over the spark plug. Most COP systems have one coil per cylinder, but some older waste-spark COP systems used a second ignition wire to fire an additional cylinder spark plug. No matter what kind of ignition system, there are always ignition wires to conduct spark energy to the spark plug. Why are Ignition... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Idler Arms? When you turn the steering wheel, there must be some way to convert that rotary motion to linear motion, that is, to push and pull the front wheels to the left and to the right. In older vehicles through the 1980s and some light SUVs and heavy SUVs and trucks through today, this is accomplished via a recirculating-ball steering gear. The steering gear converts a lot of your rotary motion into a tiny rotary motion, moving the pitman arm through and arc of maybe 60°. It's not exactly linear, but it's close enough for the rest of the steering linkage, tie rods, and idler arms. (On almost all vehicles since the 1990s, recirculating ball steering has been replaced by a truly rotary-to-linear solution, the rack and pinion. ) As the steering gear turns the pitman arm, the pitman arm pushes the track rod to the left or right, depending on which way the driver is turning the steering wheel. Because the suspension and steering allows for movement, both up and down and turning left and right, the steering linkage is composed of several pieces, connected by flexible joints. Fixed at the steering knuckles and at the pitman arm, the right side of the track rod would simply drop if it was not supported. Also, the unsupported track road would simply buckle if attempting to turn the right wheel. The idler arm's job is to hold up the right side of the... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Transmission Service? There are two major types of transmissions in most vehicles: automatic and manual. Several other types of have also been coming to market in recent years. The dual-clutch transmission functions on principles similar to that of the manual transmission, but with computer control, bridging the gap between manual and automatic. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) does away with individual gears altogether, ramping up its power transmission ratio according to a set of rules. And electric cars often don't have a transmission at all, strictly speaking, having just a single fixed ratio to transmit power to the wheels. A vehicle's transmission is one of its most important parts; without it, the engine could never reach the wheels and the car would be worthless. Proper maintenance on your transmission is crucial to your car's optimal running condition. Without it, your car may fail to accelerate or leak fluid. A transmission service is part of your routine maintenance, just like replacing your engine oil. A complete transmission service should include: removing and examining the sump or pan (where possible) replacing or cleaning the screen or filter cleaning the pan reinstalling the pan with a new pan gasket pumping out the rest of the old fluid and replacing it with new, high quality ATF adding a friction modifier or additive package (model specific) Why is Transmission Service Important? New fluid restores the holding power between the clutches, reducing slip and heat production. At the same... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Control Modules? Not even fifty years ago, automobiles were purely electromechanical creations, everything controlled by simple electrical and mechanical concepts. It worked, but it wasn't always the most efficient or most powerful. To improve engine performance, increase fuel economy, and reduce emissions, automakers turned to electronic controls, which offered better accuracy and precision. The first control modules appeared only in the early 1970s, at first on ignition systems, but eventually controlling and monitoring practically every automobile function. When referring to control modules, most people think of the engine controller or transmission module, as these are arguably the most critical. In the modern automobile, dozens of electronic control modules are responsible for controlling everything from the dome light and power locks to the engine and transmission. Really, nearly everything in the modern automobile is controlled this way. Why are Control Modules Important? Using sensors and actuators, control modules can sense and react in fractions of a second, resulting in more precision and higher accuracy. The ABS (anti-lock brake system) can detect wheel lockup in an instant, releasing and applying a single brake as fast as 15 times per second. The ECM (engine control module) monitors dozens of sensors to fine tune fuel trim, variable valve timing, and spark timing for performance and fuel economy control. Even something as "simple" as a power sliding door or power hatch is run by one or more control modules, using speed, position, and limit sensors to control electric... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Mufflers and Tailpipes? At the heart of every gasoline- or diesel-engine vehicle is an internal combustion engine. The key to its operation is right in the name, "combustion" or burning of fuel. The engine converts the explosive force of the combusted fuel into mechanical energy, which eventually gets to the wheels to get you around. Still, only about 20% of that energy ever gets to the ground, the rest being wasted as heat and noise. Mufflers and tailpipes route these waste products; carbon dioxide, water, heat, and noise; out the back of the vehicle. The engine exhaust system includes the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler, all connected by exhaust pipes, and exits the vehicle via the tailpipe. Mufflers and tailpipes perform two very important functions: damping excessive noise and routing hot exhaust gasses away from the vehicle. Why are Mufflers and Tailpipes Important? The muffler may look like an oversized part of the exhaust, but it's more than just empty space. The muffler chamber is filled with insulation, baffles, and tubes that reroute and dull the sound of the exhaust on the way through. Properly designed, engine exhaust is relatively quiet, but doesn't restrict exhaust flow enough to reduce engine performance or fuel economy - performance mufflers have fewer internal restrictions, which is why they're louder than the typical sedan or economy car. Tailpipes serve an important function, routing hot exhaust gases out the back of the vehicle. The engine exhaust is... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Oxygen Sensors? First, a very short chemistry lesson in ideal automotive combustion: hydrocarbon fuel + oxygen + spark → energy + carbon dioxide + water To keep the engine running efficiently, extracting as much power from a given charge of fuel and oxygen, the engine control module (ECM) monitors oxygen content of the exhaust, using oxygen sensors to determine how much to adjust fuel injection. Oxygen sensors react to the oxygen content in the exhaust, comparing it to that in the air. Since the implementation of automotive on-board diagnostics systems, various forms of OBD since 1968 and federally-mandated OBD2 since 1996, oxygen sensors have been at the forefront of monitoring engine performance and efficiency. Why are Oxygen Sensors Important? The modern OBD2 ECM uses multiple oxygen sensors, sometimes referred to as air-fuel ratio sensors, to fine-tune engine performance and efficiency. Additionally, oxygen sensors after the catalytic converter are used to monitor catalytic converter function. When there is high exhaust oxygen, this means that too little fuel is being injected, which is referred to as a lean mixture. To improve engine performance and prevent unburned fuel from getting into the atmosphere, the ECM increases fuel injection. When there is low exhaust oxygen, this means that too much fuel is being injected, which is referred to as a rich mixture. To prevent engine damage and the production of nitrogen-oxide pollutants, the ECM decreases fuel injection. The ECM constantly compares oxygen sensor readings before and after... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Rack and Pinion? Practically all vehicles have a power steering system, and most passenger vehicles on the road today use rack-and-pinion steering gear to convert steering wheel effort to turning wheels. We refer to "rack and pinion" to differentiate it from older vehicles and some trucks, which still use older recirculating-ball steering gear technology. Why is the Rack and Pinion Important? Without the rack and pinion, you wouldn't be able to steer your vehicle, making it one of the more critical components on your car. When you turn the steering wheel, the steering shaft turns a small gear, the "pinion" gear, inside the steering gear assembly. The pinion gear is meshed with a straight "rack" gear, which is connected to the steering knuckles via tie rods. Turning the pinion gear forces the rack gear left or right, moving the wheels left or right. On hydraulic power steering systems, the power steering pump provides up to 1,600 psi of hydraulic force to assist steering at low speeds, such as during parking maneuvers. Electric power steering systems use electric motors to assist the driver in a similar way. What can Conrads Do for You? The rack and pinion gear system itself is robust, and isn't usually prone to failure, but the seals at the ends of the rack can often be problematic, leading to hydraulic leaks or water incursion. Bushing or pinion wear can lead to a loose feeling in the steering wheel, as... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Radiator Flush? Your car's radiator is a reservoir that holds water and antifreeze to help keep the engine cool, and will occasionally require a radiator flush. The radiator not only helps cool the engine when it is running, it also helps keep the engine from freezing up during the winter when the car is parked. Depending upon the type of vehicle you have, a radiator can be very small to relatively large, and will be filled with a combination of water and antifreeze (or sometimes just antifreeze). Over time, radiators can become dirty, or water and antifreeze may contain too many impurities that render the antifreeze ineffective at cooling the engine. When this happens, the radiator needs to be flushed. Why is a Radiator Flush Service Important? It is important for you to keep your coolant/antifreeze flushed and your radiator properly maintained. Major engine damage can occur if neglected, including damage to the radiator, heater core, and other cooling system components. There is no set rule for how often you should get your radiator flushed. The frequency of radiator flushes will depend on several factors, such as your own driving habits and the quality of antifreeze you use. Occasionally flushing your car's radiator will help extend the useful life of your vehicle. Over time, the antifreeze in your vehicle may become acidic and lose its ability to help protect the engine from extreme temperatures. A skilled service technician can test the acidity... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Radiator Replacement? The radiator is a major component of the engine cooling system. While the water pump pushes coolant through the engine and radiator, via hoses, the radiator's function is to allow heat to escape into the atmosphere. To facilitate this heat transfer, from the coolant to the air, the radiator core, the working part, is made of thin metal, usually aluminum or copper, though some are still made of steel. The tanks on the ends may also be made of metal, but many new ones are made of plastic. If there is a problem with the radiator, radiator replacement may be necessary. Why is Radiator Replacement Important? There are a few reasons that a radiator might fail, requiring radiator replacement. Because the radiator is typically right out front, just behind the grille, road debris could clog the radiator core or damage the fins, reducing radiator effectiveness. Cleaning out the radiator with a pressure washer and adjusting the fins with a radiator comb can help, but this kind of damage isn't usually noticed until it's too late, such as when accumulated dust, dirt, and grime have encouraged corrosion and the radiator has started leaking. Road debris or a minor accident may cause physical damage to the radiator, and it doesn't take much to break the thin metal tubes that make up the radiator core or the plastic tanks. In case of a leak, radiator replacement might be needed to restore engine cooling system... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Serpentine Belt? In all vehicles, the engine is constructed a few hundred moving parts, such as the crankshaft, pistons, camshafts, and valves. Internally, their movement is governed by timing gears, timing belts, or timing chains. In addition to the engine, most vehicles also include accessories that are driven by the engine, such as air conditioning, the alternator, or power steering. These are driven by the engine, via one or more drive belts. Whereas older engines used multiple belts, sometimes one or two per accessory, many newer engines have moved over to a single multi-vee drive belt. Because of the way that the belt is routed, turning back and forth around many pulleys, it is commonly referred to as a "serpentine belt. " Why is the Serpentine Belt Important? The serpentine belt drives all the accessories needed for the engine to function and for your ride to be comfortable. The alternator keeps the electrical system at a constant voltage, both for engine function and for comfort and convenience items, such as the radio and power windows. The air conditioner compressor is needed to run the HVAC system, for keeping cool in summer and defogging windows in storms and in Winter. The power steering pump greatly decreases steering effort at low speed, such as during parking maneuvers. On some vehicles, other equipment may be run by the serpentine belt, such as a hydraulic pump or secondary alternator. If the serpentine belt is slipping, one... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Starter? Back when automobiles were first invented, the engine was started by hand, using a crank or rope, but today's engines are far too powerful to be cranked over by hand. When starting the engine, today we use the ignition cylinder or push-button starter. The starter is a small electric motor that temporarily engages with the flywheel on the back of the engine. When you turn the key to the start position or press the start button, the starter engages with the flywheel, turning the engine. Once the engine is turning fast enough, the fuel injection and ignition system engage and run the engine. At this point, you can release the key or start button, and the starter disengages. Why is the Starter Important? Without the starter, you can't start the engine, which means you're not going anywhere. If you have a friend to tow your vehicle or you park on a hill, you might be able to start a manual-transmission vehicle without a starter, but we think you'll agree that starting your car is much easier with the starter. What are Some Common Problems with the Starter? The operation of the starter is electrical and mechanical, depending on the battery, electrical system, ignition switch or push button, solenoid, electric motor, and a spur gear. Here are a few common problems with the starter: A weak battery may not deliver enough energy to run the starter motor and turn over the engine.... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Steering Systems? Unlike trains, which have a choice of going forwards or backwards, automobiles are more flexible, forwards, backwards, left, and right. Various steering systems have been used over the years, but most vehicles today feature some kind of power steering system. The steering system's purpose is to convert rotary motion, from the steering wheel, to linear motion, pushing the front wheels left and right. Today, most cars and light trucks and SUVs use hydraulically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering systems. Hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as some conventional vehicles, use electrically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Rack-and-pinion steering offers better steering feel and has fewer moving parts to wear out. Some light SUVs and most heavy SUVs and trucks still use an older technology, hydraulically-assisted recirculating ball steering, which is more powerful and resilient. Why are Steering Systems Important? Of course, without steering systems, we could only go in straight lines, and anyone who drives in St. Louis knows that few straight lines make up the average commute. Because of their importance and complexity, attention needs to be paid to steering systems on all vehicles. These many moving parts include the steering gear, steering wheel and intermediate shaft, power steering pump or electrical system, and even parts of the front suspension, such as ball joints, MacPherson struts, and tie rod ends. The most common steering system problem is power steering fluid leaks, which can make a mess of your driveway, as well as result in increased steering... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Thermostats? Engine cooling system thermostats perform a function similar to home thermostats. When the engine is cold, the water pump circulates engine coolant only within the engine. As the engine coolant absorbs heat from the cylinders, it eventually reaches whatever temperature the automaker has set for efficient operation. At that point, the thermostat, a heat-sensitive valve, opens to allow heated coolant out of the engine circuit and into the radiator circuit. Cooling system hoses carry hot engine coolant to the radiator, where it releases much of that heat to the air. Cooled coolant returns to the engine via another cooling system hose. Because thermostats are heat-sensitive, they open and close automatically and variably, depending on how much heat is produced in the engine. Depending on engine design, thermostats can be located almost anywhere on the engine, but are usually fairly accessible, in case of failure. Why are Thermostats Important? Thermostats are critical to engine performance and fuel economy, as they maintain engine operating temperature within the range necessary for efficient fuel vaporization, so the engine can extract the most power per drop of fuel. Too cold, and the fuel won't vaporize as easily, leading to losses in performance and increased fuel consumption. Too hot, and fuel vapors could spontaneously combust, leading to engine ping, detonation, and possible engine damage. Because thermostats are under constant thermal stress, they can fail in one of two ways. In the first failure scenario, the thermostat's metal cage... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Tie Rod Ends? If you were only able to move in straight lines, you wouldn't be able to get anywhere very efficiently, which is why cars are equipped with steering wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, your effort is transmitted to the power steering box or rack and pinion. The steering box or steering rack converts your rotary motion into linear motion, pushing and pulling your front wheels to the left or right, depending on which way you'd like to go. Because the wheels need to turn left and right, as well as bounce up and down, small ball-and-socket joints are required to allow for this motion. Tie rod ends connect the steering knuckle to the power steering box or rack. On steering-box vehicles, there is an outer tie rod end at the steering knuckle. On steering rack vehicles, there are both inner and outer tie rod ends. Why are Tie Rod Ends Important? Because they allow for a range of motion, tie rod ends serve two important functions. First, they push or pull the front wheels in the direction you wish to go. Second, they need to maintain alignment angles, specifically toe-in, the angle of the tire in relation to the centerline of the vehicle. If the small ball-and-socket joint is loose, it will not hold this angle reliably, possibly causing vibration or abnormal tire wear. If the joint is exceptionally loose, it could fall apart, causing you to lose control... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Transmission Transfusion? Like manual transmissions, automatic transmissions step down the speed of the engine, to something more useful, to drive the wheels. The automatic transmission still uses gears to do so but does not require the driver to manually operate the clutch and select the desired gear. Instead, using a hydraulic system, the automatic transmission engages and disengages the appropriate gears, depending on driver demand, engine speed, and engine load. Automatic transmission fluid does not last forever, and so must be changed when it is worn out. Draining and refilling the transmission isn't effective, however, since just a fraction of the fluid drains from the pan. Some automatic transmissions don't even come equipped for drain and refill procedures. On the other hand, a transmission transfusion can usually replace more than 90% of the used transmission fluid in the system. Why is a Transmission Transfusion Important? Because it is constantly subjected to temperature and pressure changes, automatic transmission fluid must be specially formulated for the application. Still, automatic transmission fluid lifespan is limited. Some automatic transmissions suggest automatic transmission fluid replacement intervals anywhere from 30,000 miles to the life of the vehicle, depending on year, make, model, and usage. Still, with the average American car pushing 12 years of age, the "life" of the vehicle is going even beyond manufacturer expectations. While even "lifetime" transmissions don't even come equipped with a dipstick or drain plug, it may be a good idea to have... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Universal Joints? Universal joints, often called U-joint or "Spicer" joints after their inventor, are used to give flexibility to drive shafts. Essentially T-shaped joints connecting U-shaped yokes, universal joints allow a rotating shaft to bend. Today, universal joints are most-often found in drive-shafts and steering shafts, because they have a lower range of motion. Universal joints used to feature big in four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive front wheels, but today's front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles use stronger CV-joints, which have a greater range of motion and don't vary in speed. Why are Universal Joints Important? Without universal joints, it would be nearly impossible to build a modern vehicle. Because no road is perfectly smooth, the suspension system needs to be flexible and, because the drive axles need to be flexible, the drive shaft needs to be flexible. At both ends of the typical driveshaft, therefore, universal joints allow for slight movement in angle and height. Some drive shafts have more than two universal joints, some placed close together, a double-cardan joint for example, giving the drive shaft even more flexibility. In the steering shaft, smaller universal joints allow for movement between the body and frame and steering gear. Universal joint failure, usually due to lack of lubrication and corrosion, can reduce the flexibility of the joint, leading to vibration or even joint failure. Of course, if the joint fails, then the drive shaft could fall off, and the vehicle would be stuck.... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Water Pump? In the internal combustion engine, the burning of fuel generates a lot of heat. For an engine, a little heat is a good thing, as it helps to vaporize the fuel, burning it more efficiently. Too much of a good thing starts to cause problems, if unregulated, so the engine cooling system transfers heat from the engine to the atmosphere, also the cabin on cold days. It is the job of the coolant, a blend of water and alcohol, to accomplish heat transfer. In the engine, by the cylinders, engine coolant absorbs heat, which it releases through the radiator, but it doesn't flow on its own. The engine coolant pump, typically referred to simply as "water pump," keeps coolant flowing to manage heat transfer and engine temperatures. How Does the Water Pump Work? When the engine is running, the water pump is usually driven by one of the accessory drive belts or the timing belt. The water pump is a centrifugal pump, producing high flow but little pressure. Coolant flow is regulated by the thermostat to keep the engine within a safe and efficient temperature range. At idle, the water pump can move a half-gallon of coolant per second. At its maximum operation, it can move over two gallons per second! The water pump works a little differently in hybrid cars and electric vehicles. Because the engine isn't always running in a hybrid and there is no engine in an... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Wheel Cylinders? Without a doubt, the brake system could be considered one of the most important car features. The brake system gives you control over speed, such as in traffic and down hills, and helps you come to a stop, whether at a traffic signal or to avoid obstacles, pedestrians, or pets. Disc brakes are more efficient than drum brakes, which is why they're found on the front of the vehicle, where 70% of braking is done. Drum brakes cheaper and less effective, but are still effective enough for use on the rear, where just 30% of braking is done. Somewhat of a misnomer, wheel cylinders have nothing to do with "wheels," but are the heart of the drum brake system. Why are Wheel Cylinders Important? When you step on the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is amplified and then transmitted through the brake lines to each wheel, brake calipers in the front and wheel cylinder in the rear, at least for vehicles built with rear drum brakes. The wheel cylinders convert that hydraulic brake pressure into movement, tiny pistons expanding and pushing the brake shoes into the brake drum. Moved by the wheel cylinders, the brake shoes can only expand so far, forcing the friction material into the drums to slow and stop their movement, and therefore, the movement of the wheels attached to them. Because the wheel cylinders are hidden inside the brake drums, they're well-protected, but any failure would also be... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Wiper Blades Replacement? Wiper blades replacement can usually be broken down into three categories: wiper inserts replacement, wiper blades replacement, wiper blades upgrade. Depending on wiper blade design, wiper inserts, the rubber squeegee portion, might be replaceable. Wiper insert replacement takes just a few minutes and reuses the existing metal or plastic wiper blade frame. Wiper inserts replacement is a good idea if the frame is in good condition, because it's less expensive than replacing the entire blade. On the other hand, if the wiper blade frame is damaged or doesn't feature replaceable inserts, such as many winter blades or beam blades, then full wiper blade replacement might be suggested. It's somewhat more expensive, but will restore visibility as soon as they are used. Depending on seasonal or performance requirements, drivers may opt for upgraded wiper blades, such as beam blades or aero-blades. Why is Wiper Blades Replacement Important? On most vehicles, wiper blades are constantly exposed to the sun, whose ultraviolet rays lead to deterioration and eventual destruction. Wiper blades replacement is usually recommended at least every six months, depending on wiper blade wear and the season. Wiper blades replacement is usually done in pairs. Wiper blades replacement is necessary in any kind of weather, be it sunny or cloudy, rainy or snowy. The reason is simple - if you can't see, you can't drive. It seems obvious that, in the rain and snow, you'll use your wiper blades to clear your... --- 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. --- CONRAD'S EXPANDS INTO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Experience the Conrad's difference at one of our newest locations! Conrad's Tire Express and Total Car Care is excited to serve your community with quality tires and expert service. Who We Are Since 1969, we've earned the trust of drivers across Ohio with dependable auto care and top tire brands. From tires and brakes to diagnostics and engine repair, Conrad's delivers complete automotive care for every vehicle - gas, hybrid, or electric. Wherever we open our doors, our promise remains the same: exceptional service, quality you can count on, and people who care about keeping you safely on the road. What We Do At Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care, we offer a comprehensive range of services to keep your vehicle running smoothly. From top-quality tire sales and expert installation to routine maintenance and complex repairs, our ASE-certified technicians have you covered. Whether it's an oil change, brake service, alignment, or engine diagnostics, we provide reliable solutions for cars, trucks, SUVs, hybrids, and EVs. With over 50 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, you can trust us to get the job done right the first time. We proudly carry trusted tire brands including: When it comes to tires, drivers have many different needs, based on their driving habits, handling and ride preferences, and the type of vehicle. That's why Conrad's features a complete line of tires for sale from leading tire makers, such as: And get the GUARANTEED LOWEST tire prices in... --- Drive Your Future with Conrad's At Conrad's, we invest in your future with personalized career development, expert training, and a benefits package that supports your success in the automotive industry. Apply Now Why Join Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care? I started my career with Conrad's 33 years ago at the Midway Mall location as a GS tech. Over the years, I grew through the ranks-into a Mastertech I later stepped into the role of Service Manager, and for the past 10 years, I've proudly served as a Store Leader. What's kept me here all these years is simple: the people and the opportunity for growth. Conrad's is a place where hard work is recognized, and you're given the chance to build a real career. If you're looking for a company that believes in your potential and supports your journey, I'd recommend Conrad's without hesitation. Del Kyer, Store Leader at Medina I started with Conrad's back in 1990 as a General Service Tech and over the years, I've had the opportunity to work in seven different stores. In 2008, I helped open the Medina location, where I still work today. I've been a Master Tech for over 20 years now, and I can honestly say the company has always treated me well and taken care of me. What makes Conrad's special is the people-everyone feels like friends. It's a place where you can grow, be supported, and build a career you're proud of. Chris Besida, Master Technician at Medina... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fan Belts? Aside from the engine itself, there are various accessories that run off it, such as the generator and air conditioning compressor. These are usually driven by V-belts, multi-V-belts, or serpentine belts, though some are driven via an electric motor. Most modern vehicles use electric cooling fans for the radiator, but most older vehicles had a belt-driven fan and usually a belt-driven water pump, often on the same pulley. Strictly-speaking, "fan belts" should only refer to the belts that drive the fan, just like "alternator belts" and "power steering belts" should only refer to the belts that drive the alternator and power steering pump. Still, "fan belts" is often understood to refer to any one of them - some vehicles could have up to a half-dozen "fan belts," not all of them driving just the fan! Why are Fan Belts Important? Via a series of pulleys, fan belts enable to engine to do more, such as running accessories to provide electricity, air conditioning, power steering, and engine cooling. Depending on engine and accessory design, fan belts could be absolutely critical to engine function and longevity. in such cases, a broken fan belt could lead to engine overheating and possible engine damage or a dead battery and dead engine. Other fan belt failures might result in difficult steering or inoperative air conditioning, for example. Fan belts can fail in a several ways, slipping, squeaking, squealing, or chirping. Loose fan belts might slip, but... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Headlight Replacement? Headlights provide night vision and daytime visibility. Headlights come in various types, such as halogen, xenon, LED, and HID, varying in brightness, color, projection, and price. While bulb technology and reliability has improved much over the years, none last forever. Polycarbonate headlight lenses tend to degrade over time, reacting chemically with exhaust compounds and by ultraviolet light from the sun. A blown headlight bulb is the most common problem requiring headlight replacement. Halogen bulbs tend to last around 750 hours, while HID bulbs tend to last around 2,000 hours. Some non-HID xenon bulbs have been known to last up to 10,000 hours. Usually, headlight replacement of this type requires only basic hand tools and a delicate touch, so as not to dirty the bulb or break the filament. Stones and impacts might result in a cracked headlight lens, which would also require headlight replacement. Headlight condensation, caused by cracks or poor sealing, might also require replacement. This is significantly more expensive and intensive than simply replacing a bulb. In many cases of headlight yellowing and "fogging," headlight replacement may not be required, as headlight restoration can remove the chemically-altered surface and restore clear lenses. A well-done headlight restoration is significantly less expensive than headlight replacement, restoring over 95% light transmission and night visibility. Why is Headlight Replacement Important? Your vehicle has several illuminating systems, such as marker lights, turn signals, brake lights, headlights, and taillights. These lighting systems serve to improve... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fuel Injectors? All engines require three basic things to run - air, fuel, and spark. If any one of them is not present in time or quantity, the engine will run poorly, if at all. All diesel engines and, since the mid-1980s, gasoline engines have been equipped with fuel injectors, spraying fuel in or near the cylinder. Older fuel injection systems were mechanical, but modern fuel injection systems are controlled electronically by the engine control module (ECM). Fuel is delivered, under pressure, to the fuel injectors by a fuel pump, usually in or near the fuel tank. Gasoline direct injection (GDI) and diesel engines also use a secondary mechanical fuel pump, mounted on the engine, to increase fuel pressure for direct injection. The ECM determines how much fuel to inject, and when, depending on engine load, temperature, speed, driver demand, and several other factors. Why are Fuel Injectors Important? As fuel is one of the three critical "ingredients" of a properly-running engine, fuel injector problems can manifest themselves in several ways. Here are just a few fuel injector problems and possible symptoms: Clogged Fuel Injector - Fuel injector spray pattern is precise and critical for efficient fuel vaporization and combustion. A partially-clogged fuel injector could "dribble" a little, instead of emitting a fine atomized spray, leading to poor performance, cylinder misfire, an erroneous fuel system "rich" condition, even catalytic converter damage. A fully-clogged fuel injector won't allow fuel into the cylinder, leading to... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Fuel Filter Replacement? Gasoline and diesel fuel makes a long journey from refinery to exhaust pipe. Along the way, it picks up contaminants that could affect how your engine runs. Transport trucks are flushed regularly, but fuel station holding tanks aren't, and this is where contaminants are typically found, such as dust, silt, and rust. Fortunately, fuel filters feature big in most parts of the refining and delivery process, but there's on more fuel filter in your vehicle, the last line of defense. If you're experiencing performance problems, caused by low fuel pressure or flow, fuel filter replacement may be recommended. Why is Fuel Filter Replacement Important? Cruising at 60 mph, if your engine is rolling over at 3,000 rpm, the engine control module (ECM) pulses each fuel injector about 1,500 times per minute. The fuel injector spray orifices range from 50 µm to 200 µm, or about the thickness of a human hair. Considering that fuel injectors have a useful lifespan of 250,000 miles or more, over 375 million injector pulses, delivering over 12,500 gallons of clean fuel to the injectors is an absolute necessity. The fuel filter is usually located in or near the fuel tank, and can filter our contaminants from 10 µm to 75 µm in size, preventing particles from getting into the rest of the fuel system, such as the gasoline direct injection (GDI) high-pressure pump or the fuel injectors. If the fuel filter gets clogged after filtering... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are CV Axles? The torque to move the typical front-wheel drive (FWD) is produced in the engine, stepped up through the transmission, and then transmitted to the wheels via the differential and CV axles. Front-engine rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles have a driveshaft for the rear differential and axles. Four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles also have a second differential, drive shaft, and axles to transmit power to the other wheels. Transmitting power in a straight line is a simple matter, but suspension and steering movement require drive shafts and axles to be flexible. U-joints and CV axles allow for movement and power transmission. Because driveshaft angles vary little, just a few degrees, U-joints are typically used for this purpose - older 4WD vehicles used U-joints on the front axles as well. However, because the steering wheels on front-wheel drive vehicles turn through a much greater range, up to 52 °, constant velocity (CV) joints are used. Modern FWD vehicles use CV axles to drive the front wheels, and modern independent-suspension RWD and AWD vehicles may use CV axles to drive the rear wheels. At each end of a CV axle is a CV joint, and there are two main types used - Rzeppa and Spicer. These are filled with grease for lubrication, and covered by a flexible plastic or rubber boot. The CV boot keeps the grease in and water and other contaminants out of the joint. If the boot is intact,... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Induction Service? An air induction service, or intake cleaning, is a method of cleaning the air intake system without disassembling it. Using special chemical cleaning agents, deposits are dissolved for safe combustion in the cylinders. The air induction service could take up to an hour, depending on the severity of the deposits and how complex the air intake system is on your particular vehicle. An air induction service is preferred to a full rebuild and individual parts cleaning, because it takes far less time and is far less expensive. Otherwise, intake cleaning could take several hours, if not days. Air induction service is often recommended for vehicles every 30,000 miles or if you are experiencing rough idle, poor performance, reduced fuel economy, or other intake system problems. Why is Air Induction Service Important? The air intake system on your vehicle is designed to bring in relatively cooler air, from outside the engine bay, and deliver it to the cylinders. Along the way, the air is cleaned by the air filter, measured by the MAF (mass air flow) sensor, controlled by the throttle, and maybe measured again by the MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor, before flowing past the intake valves. Though cleaned, this air also carries oil from the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system and some other contaminants. In the hot environment of the engine, it's no wonder that this ends up forming deposits throughout the intake system, particularly on the throttle body,... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Filter Replacement? Most automakers suggest engine air filter replacement annually, or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, as a preventative measure. It may need to be replaced sooner, depending on conditions where you live and drive. It's a good idea to inspect the air filter every time you have the engine oil changed. Air filter replacement is usually suggested when it's clogged with debris, too oily from blow-by, degraded or falling apart, or if it's been damaged. The engine air filter is usually located under the hood in the air box, and usually doesn't require more than basic hand tools to access. When considering air filter replacement, it is important to use a quality air filter that fits exactly in the air box. Installing the wrong air filter or installing it improperly is just as good as leaving it out. Why is Air Filter Replacement Important? Like you, your engine "breathes" air, using it to oxidize fuel and power your engine - the average 36-mpg car sucks in some 9,000 gallons of air per gallon of fuel, along with everything else that's floating in the air. The engine air filter keeps dust, dirt, insects, and road debris from getting into your engine intake, where it can block sensors, clog valves, and foul spark plugs and fuel injectors. The engine air filter also keeps abrasive dust and dirt from contaminating the engine oil, where it would lead to excessive wear on metal parts in... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is an Alternator? When you start your car, it's the battery that supplies the push needed to get the engine running. Once the engine is running, though, it's the alternator that supplies the electricity needed to to run the engine, lighting, air conditioning, and radio, as well as to keep the battery fully charged. The alternator, also called a generator, is driven by a belt connected to the engine. Why is the Alternator Important? While the battery under the hood of your car is indeed powerful, it has limited capacity. You might be able to run the radio for a few hours, but if you leave the lights on, it'll drain the battery overnight. Similarly, the engine uses a lot of energy while it's running, such as to fire the fuel injectors and spark plugs, and this would quickly drain the battery. Add in headlights, defrosters, and air conditioning, and you might be able to get just a few minutes out of the battery. The alternator generates electricity when the engine is running, which is more than enough to keep the battery charged and run everything. With the alternator at full working capacity, your run time is no longer limited by a small 12 V battery, but by the size of your fuel tank. If the generator fails, however, you're quickly going to run out of "juice" and you won't be able to go very far. What are Some Common Problems with Alternators? The... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ball Joints? Without the suspension, your daily ride would be just a bit uncomfortable, if not downright dangerous. Even on the smoothest of roads, the suspension needs to move up and down to keep all four tires firmly planted on the ground and give you a comfortable ride. In the front, not only does the suspension need to move up and down, but also the steering system needs to turn left and right. While bushings generally allow for movement on a single axis, up-down or forward-backward, for example, ball joints allow for movement on three axes, up-down, forward-backward, and left-right. Why are Ball Joints Important? There are two ball joints per side in an independent suspension, while there is only a single lower ball joint in a MacPherson strut suspension. In both independent front suspension and MacPherson strut suspension systems, ball joints serve two critical functions. First, they need to allow for free movement on three axes. At the same time, they need to keep the wheel alignment true. The ball-and-socket joint serves this purpose well, but it can cause problems if it wears out. What are Some Common Problems with Ball Joints? You might need to have ball joints looked at if you are experiencing problems with your vehicle. Here are a few reasons you might want to ask your technician about it. If the steering wheel feels loose or your vehicle wanders, you may have a loose ball joint or tie... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Cabin Air Filter Replacement? Since the mid-1990s, the cabin air filter has made the daily drive a little bit easier on everyone, including allergy sufferers. Located in the climate control air box, the cabin air filter cleans air from the outside of the vehicle, removing dust, pollen, and other particles before it gets a chance to blow out the vents. As with all filters, these filters fill up over time, making cabin air filter replacement necessary. Most automakers suggest cabin air filter replacement every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it depends on the season and what's in the air on your daily drive. Some dusty conditions or high pollen weeks can choke a cabin air filter in far less than the recommended service interval. Depending on the circumstances, cabin air filter replacement might be necessary as soon as 5,000 or 6,000 miles. Most cabin air filters are not easily accessible, sometimes mounted under the hood, under the dash, behind the glove box, or hidden somewhere else. Instructions to replace the cabin filter may be in your owner's manual. Why is Cabin Air Filter Replacement Important? Research suggests about 20% of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, not including millions more who suffer allergies due to dust and mold. On the road, too, there are many kinds of dust getting kicked up in your path. Every mile of road contains dust, dirt, soot, pollen, insects, animal droppings, and other debris. Additionally, humid conditions may encourage... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Coils? To ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in a gasoline engine, powering most of today's vehicles, a spark is critical. The spark plug is mounted in the cylinder, but ignition coils generate the energy needed to create a spark hot enough to jump the gap and ignite the fuel. Ignition coils are small step-up transformers, ramping up 12 V from the car's electrical system to near 20,000 V. To make a spark, the ignition system powers up an individual ignition coil's primary coil momentarily, creating a powerful magnetic field. When the 12-V primary windings are disconnected, the magnetic field collapses, generating a high voltage spike in the ignition coil's secondary windings. The secondary windings are connected to the spark plug via high-voltage ignition wires. For just a couple milliseconds, the spark reaches upwards of 5,000 °K (8,500 °F). Depending on the vehicle, there may be one or more ignition coils. Older distributor ignition system used a single ignition coil for all cylinders. Some older distributor-less ignition systems (DIS) used one ignition coil per cylinder or one per pair of cylinders. Most modern DIS engines use coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils, one per cylinder, mounted directly on the spark plugs. Why are Ignition Coils Important? Ignition coils are critical to the function of the gasoline engine, but their exposure to the heat of the engine causes them to degrade over time. Aged ignition coils may not generate enough voltage for a reliable spark, or... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Compressor Service? The air conditioning system is nearly essential for a comfortable ride in any humid Missouri Summer and improves visibility by defogging windows in the Winter. The air conditioning compressor is the most critical component in the system, pressurizing the refrigerant and circulating it through tubes, hoses, evaporator, and condenser. Compressor service may be required if you are experiencing problems with your air conditioning system. The air conditioning compressor is a compact unit, with inlet and outlet ports, internal pistons and valves, and a shaft to move the swash plate and pistons. Sensors detect pressure and speed, and seals keep lubricant and refrigerant from escaping the system. The belt-driven fixed-displacement compressor is cycled by an electromagnetic clutch, while constant-running variable-displacement compressor output is controlled internally. Hybrid vehicles use a high-voltage electric motor to run the air conditioning compressor. Circulating with the refrigerant, lubricant protects moving parts and maintains seals. Most vehicles use PAG (polyalkylene glycol) oil, though some vehicles may use PAO (Polyalphaolefin) oil. Hybrid vehicles use POE (polyol ester) oil, because it is non-conductive, and older vehicles use mineral oil. Why is Compressor Service Important? To keep your air conditioning system working, regular compressor service is required. If your air conditioning system is working fine, then you likely don't need compressor service, but if you are experiencing problems, compressor service may be required to restore full function. Here are a few reasons you may need compressor service: A refrigerant leak could... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Coolant Transfusion? The engine cooling system serves a very important function, maintaining the proper temperature for performance and fuel economy. When the engine is too cold, such as the first start on a cold day, it doesn't vaporize fuel as efficiently. If the engine is too hot, it can result in fuel vaporizing too quickly and lubrication breakdown. Either way, too hot or too cold, the engine doesn't work properly and could be damaged. Over time, engine coolant breaks down, and many manufacturers suggest a coolant transfusion between 60,000 miles and 100,000 miles, older vehicles as often as every 30,000 miles. Why is a Coolant Transfusion Important? Engine coolant replacement can be a simple DIY job, but there are problems with the typical drain-and-fill procedure. First, it can be messy, resulting in spilled coolant, toxic to animals and the environment. Second, drain-and-fill procedures, even followed carefully, can result in air pockets. This can result in poor coolant flow, hot spots, overheating, and possible engine damage. A coolant transfusion does the same thing as a drain-and-fill, but far more efficiently and cleanly, taking just a few minutes to replace engine coolant. The coolant transfusion machine has two tanks and a coolant pump, and tubes to connect to your engine's cooling system. The pump forces new coolant into the system through one tube, while it recovers used coolant through another tube, depositing it into a waste tank. After a coolant transfusion, clean coolant maintains... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex system of tubes, hoses, and radiators, using a compressor to pump refrigerant through the system and sensors and switches to monitor and control it. Air conditioning service is often suggested in Spring and Fall, right before the seasons they'll be required the most. The typical air conditioning service involves checking system pressures to see they are in the proper range, and looking for an appropriate temperature drop inside the cabin. Using an air conditioning recovery-recharge machine, a technician removes and filters refrigerant from the system, then confirms the system doesn't have any leaks. After recharging the air conditioning system with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor oil, sometimes adding an ultraviolet-sensitive dye, the technician checks to see that the compressor is working properly and system pressures fall within normal tolerances. If there's a problem, air conditioning service may need to go deeper, perhaps identifying the source of a leak or diagnosing an electrical problem. After a thorough diagnosis, your technician may recommend additional air conditioning services, such as air box cleaning, hose or tube replacement, O-ring replacement, or compressor clutch service. A thorough air conditioning service may also address other engine problems, such as drive belt or serpentine belt tension or condition or engine overheating problems. Why is Air Conditioning Service Important? The air conditioning system is essentially a heat pump, pulling heat energy from inside the cabin and... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Engine Running Strong with Regular Oil Changes Changing your engine oil is one of the simplest and most important ways to extend the life of your vehicle. Fresh oil reduces friction, keeps engine parts lubricated, and helps regulate engine temperature. According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), clean oil can reduce engine wear by as much as 50%, while neglecting oil changes is one of the leading causes of premature engine failure. At Conrad's, we follow manufacturer-recommended service intervals and use only high-quality motor oils that meet or exceed API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC industry standards. Pair your oil change with a tire rotation service to keep your tread wearing evenly and extend tire life. How Often Should You Change Your Oil? Most modern vehicles recommend an oil change every 5,000-7,500 miles when using synthetic oil but driving conditions can shorten that interval. According to AAA research, more than 30% of drivers delay oil changes beyond manufacturer guidelines, increasing the risk of costly repairs. You may need oil service more often if you: Drive in stop-and-go St. Louis traffic Tow trailers or carry heavy loads Drive in extreme heat or cold (common in Missouri seasons) Use dirt or gravel roads Own a high-mileage or older engine that burns oil Always check your owner's manual for the exact recommendation for your make and model. Why Choose Conrad's for Your Oil Change There are plenty of quick-lube shops, but Conrad's goes beyond a... --- TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What are Tire Rotations? To help your tires last as long as possible, it is recommended to rotate and balance tires every 4,000 to 6,000 miles. When you rotate tires, you change their positions, so the front tires may go to the rear, and the rear tires may go to the front. Each vehicle has a suggested tire rotation pattern, which may include the spare tire or swapping left and right. Vehicles with different-sized tires cannot have a tire rotation, and directional tires will restrict tire rotation to front-to-rear only. Why are Tire Rotations Important? At the four corners of your vehicle, you have four tires, which are your only tie to the pavement, wet or dry, smooth or rough. Though they pretty much travel all the same parts of the road, their positions lead to different wear patterns, depending on whether they're driving or trailing or turning. Individual driving habits may also affect tire wear patterns. To distribute these wear patterns, it's a good idea to rotate tires. That way, each tire wears evenly over the life of the set. When Do You Need to Rotate Tires? While tire age and mileage has a direct impact on traction and safety, tire rotation and tire balancing has a direct impact on tire lifespan and comfort. Generally, here are a few circumstances in which you should consider this service: When you mount new tires, most installers will balance tires as part of the service. Every 4,000... --- TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Balancing? Tire balancing refers to the dynamic balance of the tire and wheel assembly. In constructing the tire and the wheel, there are always inconsistencies. By strategically adding calibrated weights to the wheel, the technician can compensate for these inconsistencies. Because balancing only adds a few minutes to tire rotation, it is usually suggested to balance tires at the same time. Why is Balance Important? As your tires accumulate miles, they wear down and may become deformed. Tire balance tends to shift over time as this occurs, which results in vibration. It's not particularly dangerous, but tire vibration could lead to accelerated suspension and steering wear. For the smoothest ride, asking your technician to balance tires is a step in the right direction. When Do You Need to Balance Tires? While tire age and mileage has a direct impact on traction and safety, tire balancing has a direct impact on tire lifespan and comfort. Generally, here are a few circumstances in which you should consider this service: When you mount new tires, most installers will balance tires as part of the service. Every 4,000 to 6,000 miles, usually at the same time you get your engine oil changed, you should have your tires rotated and balanced. If you feel a vibration at a certain speed. For example, if you feel a vibration at 45 mph but at no other speed, you may have a tire balance issue. If you feel a vibration... --- TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Alignment? Wheel alignment, sometimes called breaking or tracking, refers to standard adjustment of suspension system connecting the vehicle to its wheels. Why is Wheel Alignment Important? Wheel alignment is part of standard vehicle maintenance consisting of adjusting the angles of the wheels so they are set to the manufacturer's exact specification. The purpose of these adjustments is to reduce tire wear, and to ensure that the vehicle travels straight and consistent, without pulling to one side. Alignment angles can also be altered beyond the maker's specifications to obtain a specific handling characteristic. All new vehicles leave the factory with the alignment checked and adjusted. It is advisable to have your car's alignment checked after the first 3,000 miles, since all the suspension gets set. Failure to do so may result in the camber and toe specifications drifting outside the manufacturer's limit, leading to vehicle pulling and tire wear. If your vehicle drives as straight as an arrow, your wheels are most likely properly aligned. However, it is a good idea to have your alignment checked annually, such as when you have your tires rotated. Improper alignment can cause uneven wear on your tires, which can lead your tires wearing down faster and not handling as well as they should when properly aligned. Without proper alignment, you could have a difficult time maintaining control of your vehicle when driving. Wheel alignment is important for overall vehicle safety but also for maintaining and extending... --- TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Flat Repair? Automotive tires are much more than rugged air-filled donuts, quite complicated in their construction and manufacture, everything designed to deliver traction, comfort, and safe travels for many miles. Under ideal conditions, tires may last from 20,000 miles to 50,000 miles, or more - touring tires last far longer than sport tires - but that's only tread life. For a tire, the road is a dangerous place. Road debris, curbs, and potholes can easily lead to punctures and leaks. Flat repair is an important service to add to your contact list. Why is Flat Repair Important? Tires perform several functions, and all depend on maintaining proper tire pressure. Properly-inflated tires keep the tread on the road, supporting the weight of the vehicle without "rolling over" in corners. Inflated tires have less rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Tires are also an important part of your suspension, soaking up small bumps and improving shock absorption and ride comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, leading to excessive shoulder wear, overheating, and possible blowout. If one or more tires leaks, it will result in loss of traction, poor fuel economy, poor comfort, impacted safety, and possible blowout. A competent flat repair technician can determine the cause of the leak and suggest a safe repair or replacement option - some flats simply cannot be repaired. Because tires are such an important safety item, following proper flat repair procedure is serious business. Generally, if the puncture is less... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Diagnostic Services? If you're having problems with your computer, you take it to a computer technician, so it's understandable that, if you're having problems with your automobile, you take it to an automobile technician. Today's automobile technicians don't simply "repair" what's wrong, but need to properly "diagnose" the problem beforehand. This is just as true for electronically-controlled systems as it is for "simple" brakes and suspension. Generally, diagnostic services are an in-depth consideration of the electronic controls handling your car's electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. Why are Diagnostic Services Important? It's only reasonable to conclude that, because the modern automobile is such a complicated machine, there are many ways in which it can fail. Noises, performance problems, and fuel economy problems are just a few of the symptoms that the modern technician may need to address on your vehicle. There are a great many car problems that are fairly straightforward to diagnose and repair. A headlight out might simply need a new bulb, or a squeaky belt may need an adjustment. However, with the introduction of electronic systems, some car problems have become more complicated to diagnose and repair. Whereas engine fuel injection and ignition systems used to be electrical or mechanical, their function is now completely electronic. Even so-called "simple" systems, such as power windows and air conditioning, are now electronic. Warning lights or warning messages may be the only indication that you have a problem, and you may or may not... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Reliable Car Batteries & Expert Installation Your vehicle's battery is the heart of its electrical system, providing the power needed to start the engine and keep essential components running. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, which can leave you stranded at the worst possible moment. At Conrad's, we offer comprehensive battery testing, expert installation, and top-quality replacement batteries to keep your car running smoothly. How Long Does a Car Battery Last? On average, a car battery lasts between three to five years, but factors like driving habits, weather conditions, and vehicle type can impact its lifespan. Frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, and long periods of inactivity can cause batteries to deteriorate faster. To avoid unexpected breakdowns, it's recommended to have your battery tested annually-ideally when getting your tires rotated or during routine vehicle maintenance. Signs Your Battery Needs to Be Replaced If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's time to have your battery checked at Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care: Slow engine crank - Your car takes longer than usual to start. Battery warning light - Your vehicle's dashboard may signal a battery issue. Low battery fluid levels - A sign of battery wear and potential failure. Swollen or bloated battery case - Often caused by excessive heat. Corrosion or leaks - Battery acid leaks can damage surrounding components. Battery age - If your battery is over three years old, regular testing is essential. Expert Battery Testing... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Belts & Hoses? Your engine is a machine in motion, converting the explosive energy from gasoline or diesel fuel into reciprocating motion. In turn, the crankshaft converts that reciprocating motion into rotary motion. Nearly everything else in the engine is rotary, such as the camshafts and water pump. Engine accessories, such as the air conditioning compressor and alternator, aren't driven directly by the crankshaft, but by drive belts, sometimes more than one. V-belts used to be more common, but today's engines typically drive everything off one or two multi-V or "serpentine" belts. Additionally, the engine generates a lot of heat. Some heat is good, because it helps to vaporize the fuel faster and oil flows better when warm. On the other hand, excessive heat can be damaging to the engine. To remove this excess heat, the engine cooling system uses a water pump to drive coolant through a network of hoses and radiators. The heater core, a small radiator inside the cabin, provides heat for the passengers. Why are Belts & Hoses Important? Made of nylon-reinforced rubber, hoses are constantly subjected to high temperatures and pressures - from -50 °F to 265 °F and 16 psi, depending on the car. If a hose leaks or bursts, the car could quickly overheat, in some cases catastrophically. Drive belts are also constructed of nylon-reinforced rubber, sometimes with added metals for strength. When the engine is running, these belts are in constant motion, using engine power... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title How do Brakes work? Cars have brakes on all four wheels that operated using a hydraulic system. There are two different kinds of brakes: disc and drum. On disc brakes, when the brake pedal is pushed, pads with friction material grab the rotor, which rotates with the wheel, to stop the rotation. Drum brakes also rotate with the wheel but, when the brake pedal is pushed, two brake shoes push outward and against the drum to stop the rotation. If your car has anti-lock brakes, a computer is in control of each wheel individually to pump the brakes quickly during a sudden stop to prevent the wheels from locking and the vehicle skidding. The front brakes play a greater part in stopping the car than the rear brakes do because braking throws the weight of the car onto the front wheels. Many cars have disc brakes in the front (which are generally more efficient) and drum brakes in the rear. More than just a disc brake or drum brake, the braking system also includes the brake hose, brake line, brake pad, and brake fluid. Why is Brake Maintenance So Important? Proper maintenance of your vehicle's brakes is essential to your safety when driving. Brake elements wear out, but they do so slowly, so you may not notice they need maintenance repair or replacement until it's too late. Neglecting your braking system can lead to increased repair costs; instead of new brake pads, you may end... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Your Car's Suspension System A vehicle shock absorber is designed with a single purpose: keeping the car from bouncing. Struts are a structural part of the suspension system and are mounted to the vehicle chassis on the top, and they come down through. Struts need to be replaced when any of its components wear out - no different than an oil filter, brakes, or spark plugs. Much like your brakes and spark plugs, struts are in continual use as you drive, bearing the entire weight of your vehicle, which leads to components wearing out over time. The shock absorber component does its work by using the force of a bumpy road to push a fluid from an internal chamber, through an orifice, and into another chamber. It does this as its internal piston is travelling up and down, and so it requires seals to keep the fluid where it is supposed to be while parts are moving all around it. These seals wear out eventually, either by leaking fluid externally, or by leaking internally, allowing too much fluid to pass too easily from one chamber to another, and so reducing the amount of force the shock absorber can use up. The mount component uses a bearing to carry the weight of the vehicle while allowing the wheels to turn. It also uses molded rubber between the strut and the vehicle to further dampen vibrations. If the bearing wears out or the rubber gets old and... --- AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex system of tubes, hoses, and radiators, using a compressor to pump refrigerant through the system and sensors and switches to monitor and control it. Air conditioning service is often suggested in Spring and Fall, right before the seasons they'll be required the most. The typical air conditioning service involves checking system pressures to see they are in the proper range, and looking for an appropriate temperature drop inside the cabin. Using an air conditioning recovery-recharge machine, a technician removes and filters refrigerant from the system, then confirms the system doesn't have any leaks. After recharging the air conditioning system with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor oil, sometimes adding an ultraviolet-sensitive dye, the technician checks to see that the compressor is working properly and system pressures fall within normal tolerances. If there's a problem, air conditioning service may need to go deeper, perhaps identifying the source of a leak or diagnosing an electrical problem. After a thorough diagnosis, your technician may recommend additional air conditioning services, such as air box cleaning, hose or tube replacement, O-ring replacement, or compressor clutch service. A thorough air conditioning service may also address other engine problems, such as drive belt or serpentine belt tension or condition or engine overheating problems. Why is Air Conditioning Service Important? The air conditioning system is essentially a heat pump, pulling heat energy from inside the cabin and... --- Services Auto Repair & Maintenance Oil Changes We offer a variety of oil, lube, and filter service changes, using only the highest quality Valvoline products, at the most competitive price in town. Fleet Maintenance From maintenance & repairs to a wide selection of top-selling tires, our Conrad's Fleet Service program was designed with a first-hand understanding of the need for minimal down time. Air Conditioning Have your vehicle's air conditioner inspected or serviced to be ready for those hot summer days at your local Conrad's. Battery Replacement We offer comprehensive battery testing, expert installation, and top-quality replacement batteries to keep your car running smoothly. Belts & Hoses Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your belts and hoses for wear and function and advise you if they require replacement or adjustment. Brake Services Stay safe on the road and make sure your vehicle's brakes are operating at top performance. We offer brake hose, line, pad, and fluid replacements, as well as whole brake system replacements Diagnostic Services We use top-notch diagnostic service equipment and trained technicians to diagnose and provide an in-depth review of the electronic controls handling your car's electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. Shocks & Struts Have your shocks and struts checked, maintained and, if necessary, replaced at Conrad's. We install Monroe parts - proven to be superior for handling, safety, and comfort in all road conditions View All Services Air Conditioning Service Air Induction Service Air Filter Replacement Alignments Alternators Ball Joints Battery Replacement Bearings Belts/Hoses Brake Services Cabin... --- Our Locations NOW OPEN! 6 New Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care Locations to Serve YOU! Hamilton, OH Fairfield, OH Northfield, OH Columbus, OH Wilmington, OH Troy, OH For Tires & Auto Service, We've Got You (and the map) Covered. Choose a location to make an appointment, get store details, and directions. --- Best Tire Brands. Biggest Tire Inventory. Lowest Price Guaranteed. Lowest Price Guaranteed Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care guarantees the lowest tire prices in town. Why pay extra for the same tire? We'll beat any advertised installed out-the-door price from an Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan Tire Retailer. Conrad's offers the cheapest prices in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan on tires from leading manufacturers - no running around town and no wasted gas. As one of the largest tire retailers in the country, we stock over 50,000 tires, including specialty and hard-to-find sizes. Browse and Buy Tires Online Step 1:Pick a Location Step 2:Browse and Buy Step 3:Make an Appointment What's Included with Your Tire Installation After you've selected the right tires for your vehicle, you can trust Conrad's to install them properly. Choose the package that fits your needs - without hidden fees or gimmicks. Standard Tire Installation Package Tire mounting Wheel balancing New rubber valve stem Lifetime rotations & re-balancing Lifetime flat repairs Reset tire pressure monitoring system Lifetime wheel alignment inspections Pro-rated tire replacement road hazard protection Free Tire Gauarantee Installation Package Best Value Tire mounting Wheel balancing New rubber valve stem Lifetime rotations & re-balancing Lifetime flat repairs Reset tire pressure monitoring system Lifetime wheel alignment inspections Free tire replacement road hazard protection When comparing tire prices, be sure to ask what's included in installation. Some competitors add hidden fees that quickly drive up the final cost. 3-Year Road Hazard Protection Manufacturer warranties cover defects in workmanship... --- Sign Up To Receive Deals by Text Get special offers and deals right to your phone by subscribing today! --- Conrad's utilizes an outside source to compile and present the tire size related information. Conrad's makes no representations or warrants with respect to the accuracy of the information. The information should be used as a guide for our tire professionals only, for standards vehicles that have not been modified. You must obtain the expertise and judgment of one of our trained tire professionals since their knowledge may supersede this information. When in doubt refer to the vehicle's placard and owner's manual. --- Terms and Conditions TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE ON WWW. ECONRADS. COM THESE TERMS OF SALE (THE "TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE") GOVERN YOUR PURCHASE OF ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE OFFERED BY CONRAD'S TIRE SERVICE, INC. ("Conrad's") ON THE WWW. ECONRADS. COM WEBSITE (THE "Website"). PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE CAREFULLY. THEY CONTAIN VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS, AS WELL AS LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS THAT MAY APPLY TO YOU. THEY ALSO CONTAIN AN ARBITRATION CLAUSE AND CLASS ACTION WAIVER. BY CLICKING ON THE "I AGREE BUTTON" OR BY PLACING AN ORDER, YOU ("YOU" AND/OR "CUSTOMER" HEREIN) ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ, ACCEPTED, AND AGREED TO BE BOUND BY THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE, WITHOUT LIMITATION OR QUALIFICATIONS. THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE ARE SUBJECT TO MODIFICATION, SO PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE EACH TIME YOU MAKE A PURCHASE. 1. Products. Conrad's is authorized to sell the products and/or services offered for sale on the Website. Conrad's may discontinue any product and/or service at any time without notice. 2. Orders. Orders are not binding upon Conrad's until the installation of products and/or services is complete. Acceptance of Customer's orders shall be communicated to Customer on the Website, and via electronic mail at the address provided by the Customer. Conrad's reserves the right, without prior notification, to cancel the Order, limit the quantity of any item ordered and/or refuse service to any customer. Verification of information may be required prior to... --- Privacy Policy CONRAD'S TIRE SERVICE, INC. www. econrads. com Last Modified: July 23, 2018 INTRODUCTION CONRAD'S TIRE SERVICE, INC. and its affiliates and subsidiaries ("Company", "Conrad's", or "We") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting it through our compliance with this policy. This Privacy Policy ("Privacy Policy", or "Policy") describes the type of information we may collect from you, or that you may provide when you visit the website (www. econrads. com) (our "Website"), and our practices for collecting, using, maintaining, protecting and disclosing that information. This Privacy Policy also describes the type of information we may collect from you within the ordinary course of requesting or obtaining service at any of our locations. This Privacy Policy applies to information we collect: On this Website. On all Customer Information Forms, Service Requests, Service Estimates, Order Entry Forms, Invoices, Account Enrollment Forms, and Credit Applications. In e-mail, text and other electronic messages between you and this Website. Through mobile and desktop applications you download from this Website, which provide dedicated non-browser-based interaction between you and this Website. When you interact with our advertising and applications on third-party websites and services, if those applications or advertising include links to this policy. This Privacy Policy does not apply to information collected by: The Company through any other means including on any other website operated by any third party; or Any third party, including through any application or content (including advertising) that may link to or be accessible from the Website. Please read... --- Financing Made Easy At Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care, we believe everyone deserves reliable transportation and peace of mind. That's why we offer flexible financing options to help you get the tires or auto service you need-without putting your budget on hold. 12 Months Financing* on Purchases of $250 or more with the Goodyear Credit Card Hit the road with confidence using promotional financing through the Goodyear Credit Card - accepted at all Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care Centers. Enjoy exclusive offers and flexible credit options to keep your vehicle road-ready for future auto needs. Apply Now Account Log In *Subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply. See store for details. 6-Months Financing with the Bridgestone CFNA Credit Card Take advantage of flexible financing for all your tire and automotive needs with the Bridgestone affiliated retailer credit card. It's the convenient way to pay for everything from routine maintenance to unexpected repairs! Apply Now Learn More Goodyear Credit Card Benefits & Advantages No Interest if Paid in Full within 12 Months* on purchases of $250 or more. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 12 months. Accepted at Exxon and Mobil Stations Now use your Goodyear credit card at over 11,500 Exxon and Mobile stations nationwide. Use Card Instantly Fill out a convenient application and, if approved, you can start using your Goodyear Credit Card immediately - in-store or online. Exclusive... --- A Message to our Conrads Family Greetings, Our Conrad Family is just that - a family made up of team associates, customers, vendors and the communities we serve. The health, safety and overall wellbeing of our family, and yours, is always our top priority. With this in mind, we have been closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation around COVID-19 (commonly referred to as coronavirus), responding to new information as it arises and preparing for all possible scenarios, with the goal of continuing to safely serve you. In addition to following the guidance provided by the CDC, WHO and local health departments, we are regularly consulting professionals as we implement our response. Out of an abundance of caution, we have taken the following steps beyond our usual high standards: We prepared our team associates and re-emphasized existing sanitation procedures, including frequent and proper handwashing, and our practices regarding wearing protective equipment. We have implemented enhanced protocols for cleaning and sanitizing all our locations, including cleaning more frequently and adding additional cleanings in high-touchpoint areas in all our locations. End of day cleaning occurs each day as well. We've emphasized what associates can do to keep themselves and others safe including not touching one's face and staying home if they are sick. We have developed enhanced procedures to assess our team associates' risk of exposure, fitness to work and fitness to return to work. We have installed plexiglass guards in the showroom at our customer counters. Employees are following Conrad's face protection... --- Sign Up To Receive Deals by Email Get special offers and deals by subscribing today! --- EXPERT TIRE & AUTO SERVICE Search for Tires Schedule Service The Conrad's Difference At Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care, we offer both Expert Tire & Auto Services - Serving Northeast Ohio & Beyond Since 1969. Our strong commitment to service excellence has shaped our culture, with associates dedicated to helping customers maintain and repair their vehicles in the communities where they live and work. Complete Automotive Services Along with offering a full selection of quality tire brands, Conrad's provides comprehensive automotive services, from routine maintenance to complex diagnostics and engine repairs. Largest Tire Inventory Conrad's carries all major tire brands to give you the best options for performance, value, and safety. Trusted, Certified ASE Technicians Whatever you drive and whatever your car needs, trust Conrad's expert ASE‑certified technicians to get the job done right! Satisfied Customers For over 50 years, Conrad's Tire Express & Total Car Care has provided expert service and top tire brands. With a 4. 8-star customer rating, we're dedicated to quality and your confidence on the road. Convenient Locations Conrad's proudly serves Northeast Ohio with convenient locations. With a shop near you, expert tire and auto service is just a call or click away. Quality Parts. Guaranteed Work. We use only top-quality replacement parts and back our work with a Nationwide Warranty-so you can drive with confidence. Shop Tires Online Step 1:Pick a Location Step 2:Browse and Buy Step 3:Make an Appointment Our Satisfied Customers Don't just take our word for it: with a... --- Contact Conrads --- Navigate TIRES SERVICE Tire Specials Print This Special TIRES BELOW $135. 00 EA $104. 00 EA. 21550R17 MASTERCRAFT STRATUS AS $120. 00 EA. 22545R18 GOODYEAR ASSURANCE MAXLIFE $132. 00 EA. 24535ZR20 DORAL SPORT SDL +V3 LOW PRICE TIRES INCLUDE INSTALLATION. INVENTORY IS LIMITED AND SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY . ONLY APPLIES TO THE SELECT LINES AND BRANDS. NO COUPON CODE IS NEEDED . CALL OR SEE STORES TODAY FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. Print This Special Save up to $130 on a set of 4 select Bridgestone tires. Instant $80 Use Code: FEB80BSTN PLUS an additional $50 when using CFNA Card Use Code: BSFS50CC Instant $80 savings applied at time of purchase. Get an additional $50 instantly when purchased using the CFNA Credit Card. (subject to credit approval). Instant Savings INCLUDES the following tire lines: Alenza, DriveGuard, Dueler, Ecopia, Potenza, Turanza, and WeatherPeak. Exclusions apply. No Carryouts. See Store for Details. Offer Expires 2/28/26. Print This Special Save Up to $120 on a set of 4 select Firestone tires. Instant $70 Use Code: FEB70BSTN PLUS an additional $50 when using CFNA Card. Use Code: BSFS50CC Instant $70 savings applied at time of purchase. Get an additional $50 instantly when purchased using the CFNA Credit Card. (subject to credit approval). Instant Savings INCLUDES the following tire lines: Affinity, Destination, Firehawk, and Weathergrip. Exclusions apply. No Carryouts. Not combined with any other offer. Offer Expires 2/28/26. Print This Special Get $100 back† on a set of 4 select Goodyear tires when you use the Goodyear... --- About Conrad's Tire Express & Total Care Care For more than 50 years, Conrad's has delivered trusted automotive service, quality tires, and honest value to drives across Northeast Ohio. First Store Opened in 1969: Parma Midtown Our Story Since 1969, Conrad's has proudly served drivers across Northeast Ohio, growing into one of the nation's top tire dealerships. While much has changed over the decades, our commitment to exceptional customer service has remained the same. At Conrad's, we're passionate about delivering the highest quality products, expertly trained technicians, and a service experience built around what matters most to you-competitive pricing, convenience, respect, and fairness. Our team works every day to make car care straightforward and stress-free. 50+ Years of Trusted Service A legacy of reliability and expertise since 1969. Certified, Skilled Technicians Whatever you drive and whatever your car needs, trust Conrad's expert ASE‑certified technicians to get the job done right! Major Tire Brands Conrad's carries all major tire brands to give you the best options for performance, value, and safety. Convenience You Can Count On Six-day-a-week service tailored to your schedule, with 24/7 online booking Our Promise While life and technology have evolved since 1969, our promise remains simple: Now part of the Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers family Conrad's combines the strength and resources of a trusted Midwest automotive network with the hometown service and reliability you've always known. Together, we keep you rolling. Visit any Conrad's location today for full-service automotive care and top tire brands-all under one... --- --- ## Posts It sounds like a simple question that begs a simple answer. But, the truth is, there is no one simple, right answer to oil & lube change frequency, unless the answer is “It depends. ” In every case, the best answer starts with recommendations from the people who designed, built, and warranty the engine: the vehicle manufacturer. Most of what you need to know about your vehicle, and how to get the best service and protect your warranty, is in your owner’s manual packet. So let’s look in the index under “Scheduled Maintenance Services” or in the Owner’s Manual Supplement under the same topic. Back to your question: How often should I change my oil? Again, the owners’ manual will specify recommended intervals, usually by mileage and/or time, whichever comes first: 3,000 miles or three months is an example of one popular recommendation. But look closely, as there are usually two schedules (remember “It depends”? ) There will be a “Short Trip/City” and a “Long Trip/Highway” oil & lube change schedule. The names may change, like “Severe Duty” and “Light Duty,” but there will be explanations of which driving habits require which schedule. You have to read the fine print. While you may assume that excessive idling (like taxicabs) or extreme high-speed use or qualify for “severe,” the fact is that the driving YOU do, such as short trips, the frequent starts and stops during which the engine does not reach the operating temperatures that burn off moisture and prevent... --- How many miles you get out of a set of brake pads (with disc brakes) or shoes (with drum brakes) largely depends on individual driving habits and the type of driving you do. Brakes can last from 25,000 miles to 50,000 miles, and here is why: Stop-and-go driving, as in city driving or on freeways during rush hour where the brakes are applied frequently, means a shorter service life than if you are driving the turnpike between cities in light traffic with your cruise control on. Other causes of brake wear Also, brake wear depends in part on how much weight the brakes are trying to stop; a heavily loaded van or truck, or a passenger car with 6 adults, will take longer to stop and result in heavier brake wear, than an empty or lightly loaded vehicle. Another factor determining longevity is the composition of the friction materials, the pads or shoes. Harder materials last longer but are subject to noise and may wear the brake rotors faster. Softer materials will stop quietly and are easier on rotors, but will not last as long. How long do brake pads last with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes? On vehicles with disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear, you can expect to replace the front pads twice before you need to replace the rear brake shoes. That is because when you brake the vehicle’s weight shifts to the front, so that the front brakes have... --- What are wheel alignments? Is it really a necessary service? The term defines the service: It makes sure the wheels and tires are in a straight line, or “aligned” with each other. When all four wheels are properly aligned, the tires work together more effectively. This results in better handling, better steering wheel return, better fuel economy (because the tires are not being dragged sideways as they are when misaligned), and, most importantly--what we all love to see—the tires will wear more evenly and last longer. Tire Edge Wear There are three main angles measured and corrected during wheel alignments: caster, camber and toe. While these terms describe to technicians how the tires are positioned on the vehicle, the short version is that if these are not within factory specifications, the inside or outside edge of the tread wears away. The tire edge wear may be so severe that the steel belts that are under the tread may be visible. Although the rest of the tread may look good, if it has worn down that far the tire is unsafe and has to be replaced prematurely. Reversing the Tire Edge Wear Some car owners hope that, in this case, a mechanic can switch the tires, so that the worn edge is on the other side, or just align the wheels to get more use from the tires. Unfortunately, once a wear pattern starts, it will continue to wear regardless of your intervention. Correcting the problem usually means replacing two tires... --- Today's family car is a marvel of engineering and technology. Would you believe that the modern family sedan with a six-cylinder engine has more horsepower than most early Corvettes? The Marvels of New Auto Technology Commonplace now are computer-controlled components such as ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) that makes stopping on slick roads safer than ever before, electronic modules to control vehicle stability, and other systems that prepare the vehicle and protect you if they sense an impending crash by increasing brake pressure, pre-tensioning seat belts, or moving head restraints into an optimal position. Where Does the Lowly Lug Nut Fit into New Auto Technology? Now even something as old-fashioned as a lug nut has become, in a manner of speaking, high tech. From the time the wheel was invented, there was a way to fasten it to an axle. From Roman chariots (a la Ben Hur), to Conestoga wagons traveling west, and from wheelbarrows and bicycles to Indy cars (with a single big nut) and NASCAR (with 5 lug nuts, just like most cars on the road today), every wheel in use must be secured in a manner that holds up under all expected stresses, but that can be easily removed for maintenance, repair, or replacement. Four, Five, Six, or Ten Lug Nuts? The device that serves this purpose on a car, SUV, or light truck is called a lug nut. Most vehicles have five; some smaller, lighter vehicles may only need four, while larger vans and trucks use six,... --- The consequences of improperly tightening or not tightening lug nuts enough are obvious - the wheel comes off at an unexpected moment. Not much imagination is needed to see what happens next, and none of what will happen is good. So people have a tendency to go the other way, to tighten lug nuts as much as possible. You have probably heard the phrase "Tighten it until it breaks, then back off a half-turn. " All joking aside, over-tightening can be as unsafe as under-tightening. Over-tightening stretches the stud or bolt, which weakens it. It may no longer hold the lug nut securely, or, in the best-case scenario, it will break when the wheel is being removed. Best Practices for Lug Nut Reinstallation A shop or service garage will remove and reinstall the lug nuts with an impact wrench, which is a tool that is powered by compressed air to expedite installation or removal of almost anything that has to be screwed on or off. In professional shops, the torque setting of these impact wrenches is set below the level of tightening required for that particular job. If you watch closely while a career technician at your local shop rotates your tires, or is replacing the tires after any other service such as brake work where tire removal was required, you will see as a final process a hand tool called a "torque wrench" being used to verify that every lug nut is tightened to the proper "torque" or degree... --- This is a question every technician has heard after recommending replacement of the MacPherson struts and/or shock absorbers on a vehicle. This recommendation is usually made based on a visual inspection of the truck, SUV or car suspension components (the struts and shocks in this instance). Mileage: most manufacturers of shocks and struts suggest a close inspection after the average vehicle has been driven 50,000 miles Of course, the type and condition of roads driven, coupled with the driving style of the principle driver, will determine how long these parts will perform satisfactorily. During the inspection, the technician will be looking for signs of fluid leaks that indicate one reason to recommend replacement. He will also look at how the tires are wearing. Briefly, here's a technical explanation of struts and shocks These parts are designed to control the tires, to keep them in contact with the road surface as much as possible. If vehicle tires are free to bounce (which is what happens when struts and shocks wear) they are not as effective at gripping the road, so steering, handling, and braking are all affected. Shocks and struts are not just for ride comfort: their primary function, tire control, is a much more important role. A Gradual Deterioration of Struts and Shocks Because the wear of these components is mostly internal and cannot be seen like worn tires or brake pads, and because it is very gradual, the everyday driver is the last to notice the difference. A passenger... --- Have you checked the level and condition of the various fluids under the hood of your vehicle? You haven’t? That’s OK, you’re average, and just part of the club of drivers and vehicle owners who neglect this task, primarily because out of sight means out of mind. There is no “squeaky wheel that gets the grease” in this case. Fluids fade away slowly and silently. Name a Fluid, Any One of the Automotive Fluids! Quick, name one of the fluids in your vehicle. Did you say radiator? Radiator fluid is probably the one that comes to mind for most people, followed by transmission fluid. Of course, there also is windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid, and the fluid that gets changed the most often, oil. Even with an oil & lube change, which is the top-of-mind maintenance item of most motorists, we have to rely on the static cling sticker the last repair shop or quick-lube placed on the upper left corner of your windshield (there it is, hidden by the sun visor) as a reminder of the next oil & lube change. Of course, many newer vehicles do have built-in electronic reminders that let you know an oil & lube change is due. But other than the “low washer fluid” warning light on some vehicles, there are no visual reminders to tell you it’s time to change the other fluids. The Order of Importance in Automotive Fluids What are the most important fluids? All of... --- Radiator fluid: protect your engine from freezing and overheating with the right mixture of automotive fluids. Radiator fluid (common name, “antifreeze”) is a mixture of chemicals that cool the engine and protect and lubricate internal components such as water pumps and radiators; when properly mixed with water, it is called “coolant. ” Unlike water, a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze will not freeze at even the coldest temperatures we may encounter. Freezing would damage your engine (visualize what happened when you forgot that bottle of Pepsi you put in the freezer for a quick chill-down! ) When water (or Pepsi) freezes, it expands, and that can cause engine damage (especially if you have Pepsi in your engine). Engine protection tips The correct 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze is best at protecting your engine from freezing AND overheating. Water alone will freeze when the temperature drops to 32 degrees or lower. So, when the red warning light comes on signaling that your engine is overheating while you are driving to work on a frigid morning with snow flying, you are understandably puzzled. After all, it’s freezing outside! Ah, remember that balmy summer Saturday when you “temporarily” put water in the radiator? The liquid that is supposed to be circulating, picking up the heat of combustion and carrying that heat to the radiator where it is released into the atmosphere, is not circulating, because it is water, and has frozen into clumps of ice in the engine. As with everything... --- AUTOMOTIVE FLUID EXCHANGE: AN IMPORTANT PART OF VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND UPKEEP Overview of your automotive fluid exchange The fluids inside your vehicle’s engine are much like the ones in your body. They serve to lubricate, clean, and cool the engine. They keep it alive or, at least running smoothly. After a while (and how long that “a while” is--is determined by vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations and the kind of driving being done), your car needs a fluid transfusion. Exchanges of Vehicle Fluids The vehicle fluids we will cover will be the automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and differential fluid. Each is unique in its chemistry as well as major function, and longevity or replacement intervals. None are interchangeable. Engine oil and engine coolant (radiator fluid) are discussed in separate articles on this web site. Why Do I Need to Replace Vehicle Fluids? All under-hood vehicle fluids work very hard. Each fluid is a unique mixture of different base chemicals and additive packages. Over time the additives wear out, break down, or drop out of suspension. This happens because of engine heat, oxidation, and in part because dirt and wear particles (small bits of metal from the engine) all work from day one contaminating these fluids. Understand that one of the functions of these fluids is to carry the dirt and contaminants in suspension until eventually they are flushed out and disposed of properly. What is the Difference between An Automotive Fluid Exchange and a Fluid Flush? Up to... --- Exchange vehicle fluids on a schedule recommended by the manufacturer to keep your car in the best condition possible. Here are tips on changing your vehicle fluids. What You Need to Know about Automatic Transmission Fluid Automatic transmission fluid is made in many different formulations, not only for different vehicles, but also in many cases because newer models of the same vehicle may require new, updated fluid for proper operation; this means that the new fluid may or may not be backwardly compatible. That also means you may not be able to use the newest fluid in your older vehicle. Transmission fluid exchanges usually start by installing a quart of “cleaner” in the transmission, and running the engine for a specified time to loosen varnish and deposits. Then the exchange equipment is connected, and new fluid is pumped through the system, forcing out the now-used cleaner along with the old transmission fluid, dirt, and contaminants. Servicing the automatic transmission fluid when recommended is critical. As the transmission fluid ages, it accumulates more dirt (as it is designed to do) and the additives are depleted. These combined effects of aging affect the heat-carrying ability of the fluid, and your transmission may overheat and consequently fail. The excess dirt also may clog the small passageways in the transmission cooler (a small “radiator” for the transmission), and hasten premature failure. What you Need to Know about Power Steering Fluid The most popular steering system in modern vehicles is the “rack and pinion. ”... --- What does Power Steering do? Power Steering helps you to turn your vehicle while operating it at low speeds. The faster you are traveling in your vehicle the less amount of tire is in contact with the road. When you are operating at slower speeds the vehicle weight is pushing the tires to the ground with more tire touching the road creating more friction making it harder to steer your vehicle. It helps you steer the tires with the excessive weight of the vehicle on them. There are two types of power steering; hydraulic and electric. With a hydraulic system it is suggested that you replace your fluid every 50,000 miles https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=flVclH8XNYw --- Ready to buy tires – but just two of them? If your replacement tires are the same size and construction as your current tires, then it’s very important that the new tires are installed on the rear axle. Here’s why. New tires have a deeper tread than used tires. When tires have a deeper tread, they grip and evacuate water more efficiently than the tires with some wear on them. When you buy tires and install them at the rear of your car, this will help to maintain traction, especially in situations when hydroplaning is a risk. Here’s the bottom line. Better traction in the rear of your car can prevent an over-steer condition (when the amount that the car steers is greater than what is intended by the driver) and will help to provide vehicle stability on wet surfaces. Seeing is believing! Watch this video to see what happens when replacement tires are put on the rear of a car – and when they’re put on the front. When you watch this video, be sure to tune in until the end. More important driving safety tips are included. Ready to buy tires? Choose from a wide selection of name brand tires from Conrad’s today. . At Conrad’s, you can count on receiving the lowest price on your new tires – or else you’ll double your money back! --- Before the late 1970s, drivers who lived in areas of the country that get significant snow in the winter had just two tire choices: struggling through winter with the regular tires that were supplied with the vehicle, or buying a pair of winter or “snow” tires. Most of those drivers chose to install two snow tires on the rear every winter, then remove and store them in the spring. The snow tires had the same rubber compound as regular tires, but were formed with aggressive lugs or cleats which acted as biting edges that would cut into the snow to keep you moving. The larger the lugs, the better the ability to dig through snow. In the late 1970s, Goodyear engineers developed the world’s first “all-season” tire, the Goodyear Tiempo. The driving public was swept away by this unheard-of concept. The tire was not as aggressive as a snow tire, but due to special rubber compounding and a lot of biting edges would grip almost as well and could be used year-round, saving the cost of snow tires and the cost and hassle of seasonal change-overs! Seeing how this concept engaged the public, every tire manufacturer developed versions of the all-season tire. Second-and third- generation all-season tires featured improved traction and longer wear, with some now rated for 80,000 miles. As all-season tires sales soared, tire engineers sought to improve on the traditional snow tire. Learning from the all-season compounds, they increased flexibility under low temperature conditions and added more... --- In the last 20 years or so, most if not all vehicle manufacturers have started to equip their models with “speed-rated” tires. This was both a response to the government’s push for tire safety and to the improved handling requirements of newer vehicles that drove changes in steering and suspension systems. Today even family sedans and economy cars are coming from the factory with what years ago were known as high performance, tires. And tires are getting bigger. For example, a Chevy Cavalier from the late 1980s and early 1990s sported 13” tires (P185/80R13). Rebadged as Cobalt in 2006, the essentially similar vehicle was now shod with 15” tires in the base model, with upgrades to 16-, 17- and 18-inch tires in the high-end packages (215/45ZR18 93W for the Cobalt SS Supercharged version). https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=byV_Pz78PY0 S, T, H, V, W, and Y... what do all those letters mean, and why is it necessary to understand this tire speed rating? The speed-rating system we use today evolved from a rating system used in Europe to ensure safe performance from tires at specific speeds. In a tire test, the tires were matched to the maximum speed the vehicle could attain. Here is a list of the most common tire speed ratings, with the maximum speed that the tire tested passed without failure. Note that this a laboratory tire test, using controlled conditions whereby a properly-inflated tire is pressed against a large-diameter drum and run for 10 minute intervals at increasingly... --- Who doesn’t want the best quality and value for the lowest price? And whether we are shopping for something exotic such as a flawless 3-carat diamond for that special someone or for something as mundane as tires for the family car, we all want to be assured that we are spending our money wisely. No one wants to overspend. What Do They Mean By Cheap Tires? “Cheap” can mean a good price for a specific tire, or it can mean a low price for a tire that has fewer features and benefits. For example, getting something cheap may mean an 80,000 mile Michelin all-season radial for $120 when everyone else is asking $160 for it. Or, a cheap price may be $50 for a tire that may come with no tread life warranty, may not have a very good all-season tread compound, and may ride like a rock. As long as you can define what you mean by cheap tires, then you will know if you are getting something that fits your needs. Tire Prices and Availability The passenger and light truck tire market is extremely competitive. One reason is that there are many outlets selling tires, and that is good for you, the consumer, when it comes to tire prices. In years past your father bought his tires from a “service station. ” Tires are now available, in no particular order, from mail-order warehouses, wholesale “clubs,” new car dealers, mass marketers, independent tire dealers, “big box” tire and service... --- Many tire dealers offer some kind of optional road hazard warranty when you purchase replacement tires for your passenger vehicle, CUV, SUV, or light truck. These extra warranties are typically not available for heavier truck tires and tires used in commercial or racing applications. They are also not included for tires that come with new vehicles, although some car dealers will offer you their own optional coverage packages, along with fabric protection, paint sealant, theft protection and other choices, to protect your new vehicle. Are all road hazard warranty plans the same? No, they definitely are not the same. The cost differs, the convenience differs, and, most importantly, the coverage differs. Read on. With a road hazard protection plan, the devil is in the details. It's up to you to get the details before you say "yes. " The best plans have uncomplicated, clear-cut explanations of what is covered and for how long. A road hazard protection plan that includes pro-rating based on tread wear is not as desirable as plans that will replace the tire based on time. For example, "Free replacement if the tire is not repairable for the first year, and half-priced replacement in the second year" is much better than a pro-rated replacement because, in the latter instance, you may have to pay a portion of the cost as soon as a month or two down the road. By the time year three rolls around, you might as well be buying a new tire. Ask if... --- Here are some important tips and tire information to keep in mind that, if followed, will help you get longer tire wear and better fuel economy, and will maximize your safety and ride comfort. Tire inflation information Proper tire inflation is in another article on this Web site but it too affects tire wear, handling, and fuel economy. Stop by Conrad's today and take advantage of our Free Air Inflation Stations. Tire pressure information: What is the correct air pressure? Every vehicle manufacturer has engineers who understand the loads and stresses that its vehicle will impose on tires. Therefore, tires are chosen very carefully, to ensure a good match with vehicle weight and engine and braking performance factors. At that time the optimal air pressure is also calculated, taking into account factors such as load capacity, fuel economy, ride, braking performance, and longevity. This information is then documented on a placard that is permanently attached to the vehicle, usually on the driver's door. So the correct air pressure for your vehicle is what is stated on the placard, and not what may be molded on the tire, as many drivers assume. This is because what is on the tire is the maximum pressure that tire can hold; since it may be installed on different vehicles with different requirements, this information is not vehicle-specific. Tire Rotation and Balancing Other procedures that extend tire wear are tire rotation and optimum tire balance. Learn about when you should have your tires rotated and... --- Why is it so hard to get tire prices? When you call most tire stores shopping for tires, expect them to ask you a few questions before they make tire recommendations, before you get the tire prices that you are steeling yourself to hear. “That much? Really? Ouch! ” Tire prices have risen in the last 3 years, and will continue to rise, due to spiraling raw-material costs and an increasing, world-wide demand for tires. What’s with all the tire questions? Why do we ask tire questions? Because we want to make sure that what we sell you and install on your vehicle are the perfect tires for you. And those perfect tires may be a different brand and model even for individuals with the same type of vehicle. The perfect tire would include a price you want to pay and the features and benefits you need to make your life easier. So features such as a “comfort zone” that enhances the ride qualities of a tire, or an enhanced silica tread compound that increases wet-weather traction, or energy-saving tire design and tread compounds that lower rolling resistance and increase fuel economy sometimes have to be prioritized. Not everything you would like to have may be available at the price you need to pay. Research? The only research I’m doing is about tire prices! Buying the right tires is more than just price. That is why it is critical for us to understand what you need and want from your... --- Driving during a rainstorm or snowstorm can be very scary. Your vision is obstructed making it harder to drive. What you can feel is how hard it is to control your car during these storms. This is when your tires are VERY important. Having properly inflated tires with good tread depth can make all the difference. Some tires even have specific technology designed to help you keep control when driving on wet roads. When you drive slower on wet roads you help to keep better contact with the road , which will improve your traction. Also, make sure to leave more space between you and the vehicle in front of you as it will take more distance for you to stop. Hydroplaning happens when your tire can not evacuate water fast enough to maintain the grip on the road. You can prevent the likelihood of this happening if you have proper tire inflation and tread depth on your tires. If you begin to hydroplane, DO NOT slam on your brakes. Ease off the gas pedal until you slow down and regain control of your vehicle. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=tzCboahZGH4 --- What is tire rotation? Tire rotation is the process of moving wheels and tires from one position to another. This ensures even wear on your tires over their lifespan. Tires need to be rotated at regular intervals, usually between 5,000 and 7,500 miles. At Conrad’s, our Oil Change service comes with a FREE tire rotation. Reasons for tire rotation The most obvious reason to rotate your tires is so that the tread wears evenly. Premature wearing could mean you will have to replace your tires sooner than you planned. Tire rotation is an important service because it also means a trained eye is inspecting your tires for unusual wear such as bulges and cuts, and for other signs of damage. It's almost like a mini-physical for your tires because this inspection can catch small problems before they become big problems. What is tire balancing? A tire and wheel combination needs those little weights in just the right position (as determined by a computerized balancer) to help it roll down the road without bouncing or vibrating. While tires are always balanced when they are installed, over time and wear, this balance changes and needs to be redone, usually at least once over the life of the tread. Conrad’s uses only the best and newest equipment to balance tires so you can be sure that when you bring your vehicle to us, you are getting it done right. What happens when tires are out of balance? It is a fact that the... --- Maintaining proper tire pressure is a key part of ensuring performance, safety and efficiency of your tires. It’s a simple task, but one that’s overlooked many times by drivers. That task is tire inflation. No matter how little your tires may be over or under-inflated, it can have a ripple effect on the performance and safety of your tires. Effects of low tire pressure When your tires are under-inflated, it can cause many side effects on your drive and quality of your tires. A major issue is premature wearing, which can force you to have to replace your tires sooner than anticipated. It can also cause heat to build up in the tires making them unsafe for you and other drivers. More serious accidents can occur as a result of low tire pressure such as a blow-out or tire failure. Effects of high tire pressure Just as under-inflation can cause serious problems, so can over-inflation. Too much tire pressure can also cause premature wearing. It can also make your ride feel hard and uncomfortable. Tire failure can occur as a result of over-inflation as well. How to avoid tire pressure issues One of the best ways to ensure your tire pressure is correct is to follow your vehicle owner’s manual or the placard on your driver’s door. Tire pressure should be checked once a month, and especially when you are preparing for a road trip. You can check your tire pressure anytime 24/7 using our Free Air Stations at any... --- No idea what all those numbers and letters mean on the side of your tire? They say a lot about what kind of tire you have and what it can do. Let's use P21560R16 as an example: “P” stands for “passenger. ” Most vehicles will have a “p” but some trucks will recommend an “LT” for “Light Truck. ” 215 represents the section width of the tire or how wide the tire should be mounted on the proper rim with the proper air pressure. 60 is the aspect ratio or the height of the sidewall divided by the width of the tire. The sidewall is very important because it helps to keep the shape of the tire. “R” stands for radial design referring to the how the tire is constructed. There is a bunch of steel cords under all that rubber and “radial” references how they are weaved together to prevent tire punctures according to where you drive. Most passenger or everyday vehicles have a radial design. And lastly “16” refers to the size of rim that this tire can be fitted to. Tires can have anywhere from a 14”-20” rim depending on the vehicle. To find what tire your vehicle requires you check the placard on your door panel or your owner's manual. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=zFGugojukwM --- Over steering is when your rear tires lose traction before your front tires and you start to spin. The most common causes of over steering are worn rear tires, entering a turn too fast, or braking too hard mid-turn. If you are in an over steering situation, apply the brakes and stay on them until you slow and regain control of your vehicle. To prevent over steering situations, check your air pressure and tread depth once a month, slow down to enter turns, rotate your tires so they wear evenly, and when replacing two tires only make sure they are the rear tires. Under steering is when you lose traction on your front tires before your rear tires and you start to slide off the road. If this happens, lift off the gas until you slow down and regain traction on the road. To prevent under steering situations, check to make sure you have proper air pressure and tread depth on your tires once a month. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=7GAbk9J98I4 --- 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 look at what your vehicle’s fuel system does, the parts that make it up, what affects its function and how you can know if there’s a problem. Let’s dive in. Get to know the parts of your car’s fuel system Several components make up your vehicle’s fuel system: Pressure regulator. Fuel injectors. Lines/hoses. Fuel tank. Fuel filter. One or more fuel pumps. What does your fuel system do? Your fuel system works with the other parts of the engine control system to ensure great performance with the lowest possible emissions. Here’s how it works. Before arriving at the injectors, the fuel system takes fuel from your fuel tank and passes it through a filter to be strained. Fuel pressure is controlled by a pressure regulator. This ensures that the engine will perform well in various load and speed conditions. When they’re activated, fuel injectors spray a measured amount of fuel into the engine. Some vehicles have a return line system that carries unconsumed fuel back to the tank. Regular wear on your fuel system You may be the most responsible car owner, but regularly using your vehicle will cause wear and tear. In time, the... --- 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 fail. Let’s look at why your vehicle’s lighting and wipers are so important, what they do, what affects how they function and how you can know if there’s an issue that needs attention. Here’s what you need to know. Get to know the parts of your car’s wiper and lighting systems Several components make up your vehicle’s wiper system: Wiper arm. Wiper blade. Wiper motor. Washer fluid reservoir and fluid. Your car’s lighting system also has a variety of elements: Fog lights (your vehicle may or may not have them). Headlights, both high beams and low beams. Parking lights. Emergency flashers. Turn signals. Fuses. Instrumentation lighting. Interior lights. Brake lights. Reverse lights. What do the wipers and lighting systems do? The wipers are not just helpful, but they’re also one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. They keep your windshield free of water from rain, dirt, and snow so that you can see clearly. Your vehicle’s lighting system allows you to see well for nighttime driving. They alert other drivers when you’re stopping, slowing, or making a turn. And they illuminate the instruments on the inside of your car so you can... --- When it’s time to buy new tires, you need to know what to look for. And you have to know where to find the best deal. One that fits into your budget and is the best option for your vehicle. There are some important factors to take into consideration when you’re in the market for new tires. Here’s what you need to know to keep right on cruising without missing a beat. What to look for when buying new tires You’ve found the right place to buy tires. But what should you be looking for once you’re there? Follow these guidelines to get the correct tires for your vehicle. 1. The tire code Surprised that tires have a code? Well, they do, and it’s a pretty important thing to understand when you’re buying new ones. The code is a series of letters and numbers that give you all kinds of useful information, such as: Tire type. Tread width (in millimeters). Aspect ratio (height/width). Radial. Diameter (in inches). Load rating. Speed rating. For example, a common tire code is 235/60R18. 2. DOT code This is a code of 10-13 letters and numbers that are set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). 3. UTQG code This code displays estimates of characteristics from a particular manufacturer. The three characteristics are treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. 4. Tire type You may be surprised by the number of different types of tires available. All-season. Performance all-season. Ultra-high performance. All-season truck tires. All-terrain truck tires. Winter/snow... --- As a responsible car owner, you know how important it is to get your car ready for spring. You want your car to run well, look great, and have a long life. Follow these 10 tips to get your vehicle humming in time to hit the road for some spring driving. 1. Change the oil and filter To keep your engine running without a hitch, your oil and filter need to be changed at regular intervals – as recommended by your vehicle owner’s manual. Skipping it will cause your engine to run poorly, your car to use gas less efficiently, and – if neglected for too long – could even cause major damage. 2. Check all the fluids At the same time you get your oil and filter changed, your trusted mechanic should check all your vehicle’s fluid levels, too. This includes windshield washer fluid, coolant, power steering, brake, and transmission fluids. 3. Replace your wiper blades For the May flowers to bloom, we need the April showers. And you need wiper blades that are in good enough shape to handle even the heaviest rain. If they’re torn or cracked, they won’t be much help. 4. Check your battery Winter is rough on a car’s battery. As you head into spring, it’s a great idea to have your mechanic give it a check as part of your spring maintenance. Part of this inspection involves making sure the connections are secure and there’s no corrosion. If the battery is over five... --- 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 you need to know about these annoying, damaging craters. Where do potholes come from? Chuckholes, craters, potholes, the path to Mordor – whatever you call them – they’re headaches that are sadly common in areas that get snow and ice. As the freezing and thawing cycles of a normal winter come and go, moisture permeates the road’s surface. The result is crumbling asphalt. Guard your vehicle – and your wallet Unfortunately, you can’t stop the roads from developing potholes. (If you could, you’d be a millionaire. ) But you CAN take some preventive measures to protect your car from damage that leads to expensive repairs. Here’s what you can do: 1. Stay on the roads you know. If you’re familiar with the road, you’ll be able to avoid potholes easier. 2. When driving at night, do your best totake well-lit routes so you can see what you need to avoid without difficulty. 3. Monitor your speed. If you’re going too fast, you won’t have time to slow down or navigate around a pothole. 4. If your vehicle does strike a pothole, as soon as it’s safe, examine your tires and wheels for damage. Be... --- 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 trusted mechanic and your vehicle owner’s manual will let you know when each task needs to happen. 2. Keep tires properly inflated Not only are under-inflated tires dangerous, but they’re also a drag on your fuel economy. Over-inflated tires are a risk, as well. Check your tire pressure regularly and remember that the outside temperature has an effect. 3. Group your errands When you complete all your errands in one trip, you’re doing your vehicle a favor. Why? Because a car that’s already warm will run more efficiently than one with a cold engine. 4. Follow the speed limits Once your speedometer hits a number above 50 miles per hour, your fuel economy decreases. Varying speeds also have an adverse effect, so use your cruise control when possible. 5. Don’t be an aggressive driver Moderation is key when it comes to driving in a way that increases your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. That means, don’t gun your engine, speed around corners, or slam on the brakes. These actions are definite gas-wasters. 6. Keep your car cleaned out You may not have given a second thought to that bin of clothes you put in your trunk a... --- 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 to know. Get to know the parts of your exhaust system Several elements make up your vehicle’s exhaust system: Muffler(s) and resonators. One or more oxygen sensors. One or more catalytic converters. Exhaust pipe. Tailpipe. What does your exhaust system do? Your vehicle’s engine produces toxic gas. The exhaust system’s job is to route this dangerous gas out and away from the occupants to protect them from breathing noxious fumes. The catalytic converter lessens noxious contaminants in the exhaust. At the same time, oxygen sensors that are located in the exhaust system monitor oxygen levels to make sure the catalytic converter is functioning as it should. The exhaust system also controls the noise that comes from your engine. Regular wear on your exhaust system No matter how careful you are with your vehicle, regular use causes parts to wear out and need to be replaced. Factors that influence the need for repairs/replacements: The way that you drive and where you drive. For example, short trips around town are harder on your vehicle than highway driving. The state of the roads. Potholes, salt, and moisture from the roads will also have an effect on your exhaust... --- 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, and how to tell if something’s wrong. Here’s what you need to know. Get to know the parts of your car’s filtering system Several components make up your vehicle’s exhaust system: Cabin filter. Air filter. Automatic transmission filter. Oil filter. Fuel filter. What does your filtering system do? Your filtering system is all about protecting your vehicle from contaminants. Let’s take a look at what each of these filters does for your car. Oil filter The oil filter catches contaminants so the oil can flow freely through the engine. Fuel filter Without the fuel filter, impurities could cause issues with the carburetor or fuel injectors. Air filter The air filter keeps dirt particles from damaging the engine cylinder walls, pistons, piston rings, and it keeps contaminants away from the airflow sensor. Cabin filter Pollen, bacteria, and dust can infiltrate your car’s cabin without the cabin filter doing its job – and that’s not good for you and your passengers. Automatic transmission filter This filter keeps debris from getting into your vehicle’s transmission, which can have serious, costly effects. Regular wear on your exhaust system Even if you’re the most careful car owner on the planet,... --- 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 and hoses Every vehicle comes with a manual that provides you with the important information you need to care for it. Your belts and hoses serve crucial functions that can land you in big trouble if they fail. Your owner’s manual gives you the recommended number of miles at which you should change these vital components. The serpentine belt, specifically, turns the water pump, the alternator, the power steering, and the air conditioning compressor. If this belt breaks, you’re stranded – your engine won’t run. Another possible danger is an overheated engine. Why do belts and hoses need regular service? Here’s the deal: You can’t always tell that a belt or hose needs to be replaced just by looking at it. They go bad from the inside out. Here’s what happens after time: Rubber hoses become brittle and hard from age and extended exposure to heat. They can blister or split and leak. Belts face a similar fate. In addition, a belt that’s loose will deteriorate more rapidly. Typical service for belts and hoses Here’s what you can expect when you take your vehicle in for bet and hose maintenance: Your mechanic will check your... --- 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, too. It’s crucial that you stay on top of maintaining your brakes and head off any trouble before it starts. Why do brakes need service? Like all the components of your vehicle, your brakes need routine maintenance to stay in good condition. Your owner’s manual is a great place to start when you’re figuring out when to have your brakes serviced. For example, it may suggest that you have your brake hydraulic system flushed and filled periodically. Contaminated fluid can cause your brakes to corrode which can lead to a lot of other issues. Caution: If you let your brakes get to the point that metal is scraping on metal, you’re going to be looking at expensive repairs, possibly of rotors and drums. What does typical brake service look like? Your trusted mechanic will be checking: Brake pads and shoes. Drums. Rotors. Master cylinders. Wheel cylinders. Brake hoses. Calipers. Brake fluid. Brake hardware. If your drums and/or rotors have become thin, they may need to be resurfaced or totally replaced. When you’re thinking about brake maintenance, many people forget about the parking brake. It should also be inspected and the shoes/pads may need to be... --- 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. Wash and wax It’s not fancy or revolutionary, but it works. Whether you take your ride to a car wash or you want to handle it yourself, keeping it clean is critical for maintaining that new look. After you’re sure it’s totally dry, apply a coat or two of wax to give it that dazzling shine. Of course, the wax does more than just make your car sparkle. It also protects your paint from the harsh Northeast Ohio weather like rain, ice, and snow. 2. Touch it up Despite your best efforts, your vehicle will experience natural wear and tear. Unfortunately, that might involve some scratches, dents, and dings. A damaged finish can make your car look a little shabby. But it can also lead to rust if you don’t handle it ASAP. Pick up some touch-up paint and the right sealant to fix any blemishes. 3. Remember the interior A clean interior says a lot. Make it a habit to vacuum the carpets and seats. You should also be regularly wiping down all the surfaces. This is the best way to keep your vehicle’s interior looking like new. It’s a good idea to have... --- 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 need to know to be prepared before you try to travel the frozen roads this winter. Driving in the cold weather Follow these safety tips when the weather gets nippy. Keep a stash of cold-weather supplies in your car, like: Non-perishable food. Green tea Water. Extra warm clothing. Flashlight. Window scraper. Blankets. First Aid kit. Make sure your tires are inflated to the right pressure and that they have good tread. Don’t let your gas level dip below half a tank. Only let your car warm up outside and never in an enclosed space. Never use your cruise control on snowy and/or icy roads. Snowy driving When snow is on the ground (and roads), your best bet is to stay home. But since that’s not always feasible, here are some tips you can follow: Go slow. Your tires will get less tread on the snow so you need to lower your speed. Use caution when accelerating and decelerating. Give yourself plenty of time to slow down when approaching a stop and apply the gas slowly to avoid a skid. Don’t follow too closely. Lengthen your normal following distance to account for the longer time it... --- 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 All Complete Car Care Kit Price: $12. 99 This kit contains four essential products for keeping a car clean, including: Original Cleaner and Protectant. Ultra-Shine Wash and Wax. Tire Foam. Glass wipes. 2. Drive Auto Products Car Garbage Can Price: $13. 97 No car lover will allow his or her car to be cluttered with burger wrappers and soft-drink cups. But eating on the go is a necessity at times. Give your pal a hand and give him a garbage can that’s designed specifically for the car. This one by Drive Auto Products is made of a water-resistant material that can also double as an insulated cooler, AND it comes with 20 liners to avoid even the messiest situations. 3. WizGear Universal Air Vent Mounts Price: $11. 99 Everyone knows that messing with your phone while you’re driving is a huge danger. Help the car enthusiast in your life stay safe with these mounts for holding smartphones. They even work for small tablets, too. The best part is how they’re made with a sleek design that goes with any car interior. These mounts are sturdy and the magnets are powerful. You can’t go wrong... --- 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 way, and that means it’s easier than ever to keep your car in good shape. It’s easier AND less expensive. Here’s what you need to know. Why do you need these types of services? One of the biggest reasons to keep your car looking good for as long as possible is to protect your investment. When appearance problems are left without treatment, they can lead to bigger issues down the road – affecting safety and possibly requiring repairs. Here’s how to care for your vehicle’s appearance Follow these tips to keep up your car’s appearance: Wash frequently and apply wax on a regular basis. (This doesn’t need to be done with every wash! ) Keeping your car clean prevents grime and dirt from building up and permanently damaging the finish. Frequent washing also prevents salt build-up from nasty Ohio winters. Use a different mitt or cloth for the wheels and the body. Make sure to only use soap that’s specified as suitable for automobiles. Using anything else can strip the finish. Questions to ask your mechanic There are some questions you can ask your auto technician about keeping your car clean: Can you recommend a... --- 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 efficiently. Here’s what you need to know about this important system. Why your HVAC system needs attention Appropriate heating and cooling are vital for the comfort of you and your passengers. But safety is at stake, too. If the defroster isn’t working as it should, you’re looking at a safety hazard for you and the others you’re sharing the road with. You don’t have to worry about your HVAC system working properly as long as you’re practicing proper maintenance. What to expect from typical HVAC service When an auto technician is doing an inspection, he’ll be looking at: Overall operation, using pressure. Charge of refrigerant. Outlet temperatures. If your system is low on refrigerant, the mechanic will do a leak test to find the source. He may also check for indications of refrigerant cross-contamination, which can cause coolant issues. The final thing your auto technician will want to look at is the air conditioner’s compressor’s drive belt and the tension. Signs and symptoms of HVAC trouble Here’s what you may notice if your HVAC system is having problems: The AC isn’t as cold as it should be, or the heat doesn’t seem to be as... --- 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 often distracted by the busyness of the season, and the limited amount of daylight doesn’t help, either. Here’s what you need to know about driving safely. 1. Plan ahead Before you drive over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house, you have to make sure your vehicle is up for the trip. Have your mechanic give your car the once-over before you head out. It’s also a good idea to check the weather report for your intended destination to make sure you’re not driving into a bad situation. 2. Get your rest Before beginning any road trip, you must be awake and alert. Share the driving on long trips and take lots of breaks. 3. Watch your speed When you give yourself plenty of time to get to where you’re going, you’re less likely to feel under the gun and speed. And a costly ticket isn’t the only reason to obey the speed limit. Your safety and the safety of others on the road is at stake, too. 4. Be a defensive driver The extra traffic on the road can be frustrating. But it means you need to be extra vigilant to avoid... --- 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. 1. Check the battery. Winter weather takes a toll on your vehicle’s battery. Chemical reactions are required for the battery to do its job and in the cold, the reactions don’t take place as quickly. Did you know that a battery only has half its power in 5-degree Fahrenheit weather? Creating the perfect storm, your car’s engine requires even more power from the battery than normal to start. That’s why your vehicle may not start on a frigid winter morning. Before winter hits, have your trusted auto technician run a test on your battery to make sure it’s functioning at full power. 2. Wiper blades and wiper fluid If you’re thinking wiper fluid and new blades are more of a summer-time thing, you couldn’t be more wrong. Snow and salt and all other manner of grime build up on your windshield, impeding your visibility and that’s not safe for anyone. New blades and a full reservoir of fluid will ensure you’ll make it through the toughest stuff winter can throw at you. 3. Think about winter tires. Did you know that winter tires (AKA snow tires) can make a huge difference in your winter-driving safety?... --- 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 tires are good enough to do the job? You need to make an informed decision. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice. Does winter win? We’ll give it to you straight: All-season tires don’t perform nearly as well as winter tires. Not even close. It’s true whether you’re driving on snow, ice, or in the rain. Here’s the reason: Winter tires have deeper tread patterns and they’re made from a rubber compound that’s softer than their all-season counterparts. With the extreme tread depths you’ll have more stability when you make turns, get better traction, and experience a quicker stopping time. @*Winter tires in action Check out this test that was performed to evaluate the efficiency of winter tires. Two comparable vehicles were used. One was equipped with winter tires and the other, all-season. --- 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 Swap Meet and Car Show Dates: November 8, 2019-November 9, 2019 Location: Clark County Fairgrounds, Springfield, OH Contact the event coordinator: Cortney Wirth, 937-376-0111 Website: http://www. ohioswapmeet. com Hours: Friday and Saturday, 8 a. m. - 5 p. m. Cost of Admission: $10 (12 and under, free) Ohio Ford Expo Dates: November 30, 2019-December 1, 2019 Location: Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave. , Columbus, Ohio 43211 Contact the event coordinator: Jeff Johnson, 614-268-1181 Website: www. ohiofordexpo. com Hours: Saturday, 9 a. m. - 5 p. m. , Sunday, 9 a. m. - 3 p. m. Cost of Admission: $10 (12 and under, free) Dave & Ed’s Super Auto Events Pro-Formance Swap Meet Dates: November 2, 2019-November 3, 2019 Location: Stark County Fairgrounds, Canton, OH Contact the event coordinator: Christen Tritt, 330-477-8506 Website: www. autoevents. com Hours: Gates open Saturday and Sunday at 8 a. m. Cost of Admission: $7 per person, or $10 for weekend pass (12 and under, free) Pep Boys Eastland Cruise Dates: November 2, 2019 Location: 2830 Hamilton Rd, Columbus, OH, 43232 Contact the event coordinator: Pep Boys, 614-864-2092 Website: https://www. facebook. com/ctowncruisers Hours: Registration 11:00 a. m. - 1:30... --- 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 thankful along the way. Planning ahead can help you be in-the-moment when the actual day arrives. Here’s some helpful advice for getting the most out of the holiday. 1. Make a guest list Many of us spend Thanksgiving with the same loved ones each year. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s okay to open it up to others, as well. Can you think of someone who will be alone on the holiday? Or a family that’s struggling financially? Think outside the box about how you can share your bounty with your “regulars” as well as some others who need a little boost this year. 2. Plan your menu Give yourself plenty of time to decide what dishes you’ll prepare. And you’ve already made your guest list, so you’ll know the amounts needed for each recipe. Go ahead and start shopping for non-perishable items as early as you can to take advantage of sales – and so you don’t have to buy everything in one ginormous shopping excursion. Remember to take your guests’ special dietary needs into consideration as you’re making the menu, too. If you really want to get a jump-start, prepare any dishes... --- 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 you need to know about keeping your brakes in good shape. Why do you need to service your brakes? Like nearly all the parts of your car, your brakes will undergo normal wear and tear. They’ll eventually need to be replaced for safety reasons but also so your car can perform the way it should. You want to avoid letting them get to a point that they’re metal-on-metal. You’ll be looking at much more costly repairs, like rotor or drum replacement. It’s always best to follow your owner’s manual recommendations and yours might suggest flushing and refilling your brake hydraulic system periodically. When your brake fluid gets contaminated, it can speed the corrosion process and cause other issues – especially if you have anti-lock brakes. Here’s what typical brake service looks like When you take your car to your trusted mechanic, this is what you can expect him to focus on: Inspecting brake pads, shoes, drums, rotors, master cylinders, wheel cylinders, brake hoses, calipers, brake hardware, and brake fluid. Resurfacing or replacement, if the drums and rotors are too worn. The parking brake, to make sure it’s functioning properly. In some cases, the parking brake... --- 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 trying to tell you. Why do you need to pay attention to your dashboard lights? When your “Check Engine” light is on, it indicates that one of your vehicle’s systems isn’t working properly. It could be the ignition, fuel injection, or emission control. It’s important to note that your car may seem just fine to you. You’ll need the right diagnostic tools to find out what’s really going on under the hood. Ignoring this dashboard light could have a negative effect on your vehicle’s fuel-efficiency – or worse, end up in costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know about your dashboard lights There are some important things you need to know about that little glowing light on your dashboard: When a yellow light comes on and stays on, you should get your vehicle to your trusted mechanic at your earliest convenience. A flashing yellow light is a more serious situation. It means that a problem is happening currently and needs to be checked out right away. For example, catalytic converter damage could cause your dashboard engine light to blink. If you see a red warning light, you’ll need to pull over as soon as... --- 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 you need to know. Why do tires and wheels need service? The quality of your tires is a safety issue, but that’s not all. It also affects handling, traction, and the comfort of your ride. Maintaining your tires and wheel alignment reduces wear, improves handling, and makes your vehicle more fuel-efficient. You’ll know it’s time to change your tires when the tread depth is lower than 4/32”. An easy way to tell is to stick a penny head-down in-between the treads. If the top of Abe’s head is visible, your tread is too low. A puncture or crack in the sidewall also means it’s time for new tires. Normal wear and road conditions can affect your car’s steering and suspension system over time, as well as cause the alignment to be off. Wheel and tire service: what you can expect These are the types of services your mechanic will want to perform to keep your wheels and tires in good condition – and a few things you can do on your own. Alignment. All four wheels’ alignment should be checked at least once a year, as well as at any sign of uneven tread wear... --- 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 types of fluids. If any of them need to be topped off or changed, your car won’t run at its peak performance. Here’s a list of what your trusted mechanic will want to look at: Oil Power steering fluid. Transmission fluid. Windshield washer fluid. Antifreeze and coolants. Have your battery inspected The battery connections should be tight and clean with no amount of corrosion. If it’s not up to par, your mechanic will want to replace it. Remember, getting stuck out in the cold with a dead battery is NOT fall fun. Get the hoses and belts checked If there’s any sign of excessive wear – like cracks, fraying, or brittleness – is detected on any of the hoses or belts, they’ll need to be replaced for your safety and to keep your vehicle running as it should. Even if there isn’t any sign of wear, your auto technician will check to make sure the hoses and belts are tight and the connections are secure. Have your exhaust system checked Leaks, rust, or damaged or broken hangers or supports can be quite dangerous if not remedied right away. Get your brakes inspected The best way... --- Back-to-School time is busy for both parents and students. Sports practices, clubs, classes, and endless activities. But your student can’t get where she needs to go if her vehicle isn’t working up to par. Here are some questions you need to answer before your student gets into the thick of the busy season. 1. How are the tires? Not only will improperly filled tires be a drag on gas mileage, but it can also cause extra wear and tear. You’ll have to replace them more frequently than you should and that’s a drain on your wallet. Make sure your student has a tire gauge and knows how to use it. To check the tread depth, use a penny. Stick it between two tread grooves with the head down. If the top of Abe’s head shows, it’s time for new tires. 2. Do the fluids need to be topped off? While regular oil changes are part of the equation, there’s a lot more involved than just that. There are other fluid levels that need to be monitored, including: Transmission fluid. Brake fluid Coolant. Windshield wiper fluid Clean fluids keep your vehicle running smoothly. It’s critical that each fluid is filled to the appropriate levels so that the corresponding components can do their jobs efficiently. 3. Do all the seatbelts work properly? Buckling up is the law. But that’s not the only reason for your student and his passengers to wear seatbelts. Safety restraints save countless lives every year. Airbags can’t do... --- 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 lights are working Shorter days mean you’ll be using all your lights more frequently. Make sure headlights, taillights, flashers, blinkers, and brake lights are clean and working. If any are dim or burned out, replace them right away. 2. Check fluid levels Have your mechanic check all the fluid levels and top off any that are low. The change from summer to autumn is a good time to have your oil changed, but always go by the recommendations in your vehicle owner’s manual. Remember your windshield washer fluid. Rainy fall days or nights can inhibit your visibility – especially on a grimy windshield. 3. Replace windshield wipers Summer’s high temperatures can cause your wiper blades to warp or crack. For safety’s sake, replace them at the end of summer and roll into autumn with a fresh pair. 4. Clean and repair the windshield Have any cracks or chips in your windshield taken care of now. Once the weather gets colder, they can spread and be a much harder issue to deal with. Give your windshield a thorough cleaning, as well. 5. Have the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning inspected You want to stay cool in... --- 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 responsible for: The water pump. Your alternator. Power steering. Air conditioner compressor. Older vehicles could easily overheat if a hose blows out, causing expensive or even irreparable damage to the engine. Why do belts and hoses need service? Belts and hoses will usually fail from the inside out, which means you won’t be able to tell what’s going on from a look at the outside. There are a few telltale signs, however. Rubber hoses can become hard and brittle after prolonged exposure to extreme heat and cold. They can also blister or split. Belts are also damaged by age and time. As they become loose and start to slip they deteriorate more quickly. Regular service These maintenance tasks will keep your vehicle running up to speed when done regularly: Check hoses annually. Your trusted mechanic will be looking for hardening or softening. If a hose is hard or squishy, it’s time for a replacement. Leaking, cracks, and blistering also indicate problems. When hoses are replaced, the clamps should be, too. Serpentine belts and V-belts should be inspected yearly to make sure they’re not too loose, frayed, cracked, or showing signs of glazing. The timing belt... --- 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 the brakes, cooling system, power steering, and the transmission. The interior ventilation, fuel system, and transmission also require a variety of filters to work properly. Here’s what you need to know. Why do your filters, fluids, and oil need service? Your engine needs to stay clean on the inside. All kinds of contaminants can invade and make the important components break down. Metallic shavings, dust, condensation, and antifreeze can get into oil, other fluids, and the engine itself. The only way to protect your engine is to have regular oil, filter, and fluid changes. Belts are also damaged by age and time. As they become loose and start to slip they deteriorate more quickly. Here are a few examples: Transmission fluid breaks down quickly when it’s subjected to high heat and most transmission breakdowns occur due to overheating. Contaminated brake fluid can cause the components in the braking system to corrode or experience a myriad of other mechanical failures. Regular service These maintenance tasks will keep your vehicle running up to speed when done regularly: Periodically check oil levels and have it changed according to your owner’s manual recommendations. Coolant should be changed regularly, also... --- It’s Car Care 101. Your vehicle won’t perform the way you want it to if your engine isn’t well-maintained. The best way to do this is to have your car tuned up on a regular basis. There are three big benefits: The engine will remain working at its fullest power. You’ll get the best fuel economy. Your vehicle will give off the lowest level of emissions Here’s what a tune-up involves, including the specific systems that your mechanic will focus on, and some warning signs to watch out for. Ignition Your vehicle’s ignition system consists of: Spark plugs. Plug wires. Coils. Symptoms of ignition trouble: Car doesn’t start. Key won’t turn. Vehicle stalls. Dashboard lights flicker. Starter motor doesn’t make any noise. Filters Your vehicle has several filters that keep contaminants from invading the vital components that keep your engine running smoothly. Oil filter. Fuel filter. Air filter. Cabin air filter. Symptoms of filter failure: Oil filter Sputtering. Performance is suffering. Metallic sounds. Dirty exhaust. Fuel filter Reduced engine power. Engine stalling. Random engine misfire. Air filter Filter looks dirty. Check engine indicator light is on. Unusual noises. Reduced fuel economy. Cabin air filter Unusual odor. Poor airflow. Belts and hoses The belts and hoses in your car have a big job to do and they’re a crucial part of a tune-up. During a vehicle check-up, your mechanic will be looking at the belts and hoses that work together with your: Alternator. Water pump. Power steering pump. Symptoms of belt... --- Buying a vehicle is a big investment. You wouldn’t take $25,000 and toss it in the trash can, right? But that’s exactly what you’re doing when you fail to take care of your car. No doubt, it’s a big job. It’s a lot more manageable when you know what needs to be done – and when. Use this car care guide to make a plan for maintaining your vehicle. 1. Battery and cables The first thing to pay attention to when it comes to your car’s battery is that it should be mounted securely. It’s also important that the connections are tight, clean and free of corrosion. You should have your battery tested by your trusted mechanic twice a year. If it’s more than 5 years old, it’s time for a replacement. 2. Belts Though you may not think of them often, when belts malfunction, you may be looking at big trouble – and a major expense. To head off this scenario, it’s necessary to have your V-belts and serpentine belts checked periodically. Your mechanic will be looking at the tension, as well as for signs of wear, like cracks, fraying, or glazing. You should replace your timing belt according to your vehicle owner’s manual recommendations. It will typically be between every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. 3. Brake system Of course, your brakes are one of the most important safety features your vehicle has. The brake components should be checked yearly. Your mechanic will be looking at: Pads. Shoes. Rotors.... --- Summer’s big selling point is the warmth. While it’s a nice respite from the chillier (and downright COLD) weather, it can take a toll on your vehicle. The day-to-day of errands, driving back and forth to work, and being a kid-taxi is bad enough. Add in a vacation or two, and you’re giving your car a workout. As this year’s season of sun winds down, there’s still time for you to get in a last road trip. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your vehicle in the summer so it’s ready to roll when you are. 1. Make sure the electrical system is working. Check the battery terminals to ensure the electrical system is charging properly. 2. Perform important tests. This includes testing the thermostat, pressure levels, and visually inspecting components for leaks or corrosion. 3. Check hoses and belts. You’re looking for anything that’s frayed, cracked, or bulging, This type of wear can cause a breakdown when you’re trying to enjoy your summer fun. Have your mechanic repair or replace any belt or hose that’s not in good working order. 4. Clean the radiator. Dirt, bugs, and other random debris can wreak havoc on your radiator. You can handle this yourself by periodically using your garden hose and a soft brush to give it a gentle cleaning. 5. Inspect your tires. Outdoor temps have an effect on your tire pressure. As warm days become HOT and the thermometer fluctuates, monitor the air in your tires. Failing... --- Time flies when you’re having fun. But it’s not too late to enjoy a road trip before the sun sets on summer. Before you take off on a final fling, don’t forget to make sure your vehicle’s up for the drive. Here’s a pre-trip car checklist to get you started. Filters There are several filters that keep your vehicle running smoothly: Air filter. Cabin air filter. Oil filter. Fuel filter. Each of these plays a role in making sure your car is maintaining good fuel economy and getting you where you need to be without a hitch. Fluids When it comes to fluids, it’s pretty simple: They’re crucial for your vehicle. To head off this scenario, it’s necessary to have your V-belts and serpentine belts checked periodically. Your mechanic will be looking at the tension, as well as for signs of wear, like cracks, fraying, or glazing. When your mechanic gives your car the once-over, here’s what he will be looking at: Oil. Radiator fluid. Transmission fluid. Radiator fluid. Power steering fluid. Brake fluid. Windshield washer fluid. Coolant. It’s important that your car has just the right amount of each type. Too much or too little and you could eventually be looking at costly repairs. Hoses and belts A faulty hose or belt could quickly put a damper on your summer fun. Have these crucial components looked at before you take off: Timing belt. Serpentine belt. Coolant and heater hoses. Brakes As always, defer to the advice your owner’s manual... --- The season of sunshine and road trips is here. Sweet summertime. Maybe you’ve been adding to your bucket list of destinations all-year-long and now it’s finally time to take off. Not so fast. There’s some important information you need before you hit the road. Follow these summer car-care tips to make sure your travels are safe and fun. 1. Tires Your vehicle’s tire pressure will increase as the temps rise. If your tires are under- or over-inflated, you’re at a greater risk for a flat, a blowout, or even an accident. Check your vehicle owner’s manual to be sure your tires are filled to the correct level. Check your vehicle owner’s manual to be sure your tires are filled to the correct level. A good rule of thumb is to check the pressure each time you fill up your car. An added bonus? You’ll save at the pump, too. Properly-inflated tires make your vehicle more fuel-efficient. 2. Oil It’s not shocking that cars can overheat in the heat of summer. Driving long distances can also contribute to the issue. Be sure to check your oil before taking off on a trip this summer. If the oil is dark or dirty, it’s time for a change. Today’s vehicles are different than older models so be sure to defer to the oil-change recommendations of your owner’s manual. 3. Fluid levels After you’ve checked under your car for any signs of a leak, it’s a good idea to check all the fluid levels.... --- You take good care of your vehicle. You’re careful to follow the maintenance guidelines recommended by your owner’s manual and you have a standing weekly date at the local car wash. It seems like nothing can go wrong. Not so fast. Unfortunately, even though you’re doing everything right, STUFF happens. Here’s what you’ll need to remember if you experience a breakdown. 1. Get your vehicle off the road. Being sure to use your turn signal, safely pull off the road as quickly as you can. Move as far away from traffic as you can and pay attention to your location. Never try to push your car to the side of the road and always use your hazard lights. If you don’t feel like you’re safe waiting in your vehicle, get out and go to a safer location. 2. Make sure your car’s visible. It’s important that your vehicle can be easily seen by other motorists, including whatever roadside assistance vehicle is coming to your aid. Other than your hazard lights, it may even be necessary to use a road flare if you have one in your emergency kit. If all else fails, tie something brightly colored to your vehicle’s door handle. 3. Assess the problem. Do you notice any particular smells or strange sounds coming from your car? Is your vehicle pull to one side or handle differently than it normally does? This information will be helpful to the roadside assistance crew that comes for you. 4. Call for help.... --- Life is expensive. There are bills to pay and groceries to buy. No matter how big or small your family is, your expenses are always higher than you’d like. This can lead you to put vehicle maintenance on the backburner. But there’s a very serious question you need to answer: Is saving a few bucks worth your life? Sounds dramatic but it’s an all-too-important issue. While driving under the influence and distracted driving are the main causes of accidents, mechanical failures pose a danger as well. Here’s what you need to know. 1. Have your brakes inspected. It’s no secret that your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. Over time, the components wear out and can eventually have an adverse effect on your stopping time. In an emergency, when every second counts, brakes that are worn down can be dangerous. These are the elements of your brake system that your mechanic will want to take a look at: Pads and shoes. Rubber seals and hoses. Any metal components can rust. Have them inspected regularly and take care of repairs right away. 2. Make sure your lights are working. Not only do you need your lights to be working at full strength so you can drive safely in the dark, but you also need to be SEEN by the other vehicles on the road. Regularly inspect your lights, keep them clean and free of debris, and don’t put off replacing a bulb that’s out Think... --- Owning a vehicle is a big responsibility. Maintaining it well is important for extending the life of your car, as well as for keeping you safe. Since there’s so much to do, sometimes it can be difficult to remember what you need to take care of and when. Though you should always defer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual – it has the best information for your specific make and model – there are some general guidelines you can use as a starting point. Here’s what you need to know about how often your major vehicle systems need to be checked. Monthly Lights – both interior and exterior Tire inflation Tire tread condition Windshield washer fluid level Every 6 months (or 4,000 miles) Chassis lubrication Antifreeze/coolant Finish, looking for scratches, dents, or rust Power steering fluid level Transmission fluid level Wiper blades Every 12 months (or 13,000 miles) Battery and cables Belts Brake system Cabin air filter Engine air filter Exhaust system Hoses HVAC system Steering and suspension Other things to check Watch out for the indicator lights on your dashboard. If anything is lit that wasn’t lit before, or if any lights are flashing, it’s important to get your vehicle in to see your mechanic ASAP. Engine oil and filter. Spark plugs. For recommendations on changing your engine oil and spark plugs, look at your owner’s manual and/or consult a trusted mechanic. Other factors to consider There are some outside factors that have an effect on your vehicle’s various systems... --- It’s hot out. Whether you love summer or long for cooler days, the heat is here to stay for a while. And you’re not the only one affected by warm temps. Your vehicle can be pushed past its limits. Here’s what you need to know to keep from being stranded this summer. 1. Your battery needs to be prepped for the heat. Ever wondered what a battery’s worst enemies are? Heat and vibration. Of course, you can’t do much about the temperature, but you can make sure your battery is mounted properly so excess vibration doesn’t cause wear more quickly than it should. A loosely-mounted battery combined with heat is a recipe for disaster. 2. Make sure your engine stays cool. Your vehicle’s cooling system has the big job of keeping your engine cool so it doesn’t overheat. That means you and your trusty mechanic need to keep an eye on coolant levels to make sure they’re adequate for the hot weather. The cooling system will also need to be flushed periodically – at the direction of your owner’s manual and your mechanic. 3. Your tires need to be properly inflated. If your tires are under-inflated, they can overheat, especially when they’re being driven on hot roadways. Overheated tires can blow out. It’s not only a hassle, but it’s also potentially dangerous. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month, some people choose to do it each time they fill up with gas. And don’t forget to... --- There are a lot of ways you can go green. Recycling newspapers, plastic, and glass are all fairly simple ways. But short of only driving hybrids, how can you maintain your vehicle in an earth-friendly way? It’s totally possible – even without trading in your SUV for a Prius. The more efficiently your car runs, the better it is for the environment. Here’s what you can do. 1. Replace clogged air filters When the filter is full of dirt, grime, bugs, and all manner of yuck, the engine loses power and your car’s acceleration and overall performance suffer. 2. Clean or replace spark plugs When your spark plugs are dirty, it causes your engine to misfire and you waste fuel. You should have them inspected on a yearly basis and have them replaced according to the recommendations of your vehicle owner’s manual. 3. Check cooling system If there’s an issue with your vehicle’s cooling system, the engine will run too cold, lowering the fuel-efficiency. Have your trusted mechanic inspect your cooling system periodically to reduce harmful emissions and protect your engine. 4. Maintain fuel system Save money at the gas pump by having your fuel filter replaced and having your fuel injectors flushed according to your owner’s manual. 5. Have emissions system tested This is another system that should be inspected annually to keep your passengers and the environment safe. The system controls emissions, exhaust, and pollutants. 6. Check your tires You may be surprised to find out that your... --- The weather’s warm and the kids are out of school. It’s the perfect time to take off for a day of adventure. But where to go? There are a ton of great day trips you can take in the great state of Ohio, but we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed it down to the top 3. Which one sounds fun? Of course, you don’t have to choose. You can try them all. Ready, set, go! 1. Hit the lake One of the best things about living in Northern Ohio is the proximity to Lake Erie. Put-In-Bay is a great destination if you want to feel like you’ve really gone “away. ” There are a few different ways you can get to the island. You can take a private boat, a plane, or you can hop on a ferry. Miller Ferry is the most popular way to get there and it can accommodate whatever mode of transportation you want to get around the island, including car, bike, camper, motorcycle or on foot. Once you arrive (it’s about a 20-minute journey), If you left your vehicle at the ferry parking, your best bet is to rent a golf cart. You can also rent bicycles, take a taxi, or use the island train. You can also rent bicycles, take a taxi, or use the island train. Here’s a list of places you’ll want to see while you’re on Put-In-Bay: Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center. Butterfly House. Heineman Winery and... --- If you have a car, you know that it needs periodic oil changes. That may be as far as your knowledge goes – and that’s okay. The truth is, to keep your car running optimally, you need to understand a few things about oil changes. Here are 3 things you need to know. 1. When does the oil need to be changed? Disclaimer: You’ll see the same running theme here. Check your owner’s manual. The old standard – every 3 months or 3,000 miles – isn’t the norm anymore. Newer vehicles don’t need such frequent oil changes. Plus, many of the latest cars have warning indicators to let you know when the time for oil service is near. When you’re questioning if it’s time to change your oil, your first stop should be your trusty owner’s manual. 2. Does it need to be checked in-between changes? Even though you’re following your owner’s manual and keeping an eye out for your vehicle’s oil indicator lights, it’s still a good idea to check the levels periodically. No matter how new or old your car is, it may need the oil to be topped off between changes. A good rule of thumb for taking a peek is about once a month. Call your mechanic at the first sign of a leak or if the levels seem to be dropping significantly. 3. Which type of oil is the right one? Have any guesses as to where you should look for this information? Ding, ding!... --- Winter in NE Ohio is no joke. The snowstorms, frigid temperatures, and the huge potholes can do a number on your vehicle. But, spring is in the air and it’s time to say “See ya later” to the grime left behind by winter. Here’s what you need to know about giving your ride a spring-time refresher. 1. Get rid of the salt While salt’s necessary for keeping the road ways safe, it’s hard on your car. Especially the undercarriage where the salt concentration can be extra corrosive. Use a car wash that has a spray specifically for the bottom of your car. 2. Have your alignment and suspension checked Slamming into a pothole is one of the most cringe-worthy parts of post-winter driving. You can almost FEEL the toll it take on your vehicle each and every time you hit one. Have your trusted mechanic take a look at both the alignment and suspension – especially if you notice a pull to one side when you’re driving. 3. Get an oil change and check the other fluids If the last time you had your oil changed was before winter hit, spring is the perfect time. Flushing your transmission fluid is a good idea, too. Your transmission is one of the most-neglected parts of a car AND it’s the most expensive to fix. Also have your wiper fluid, brake fluid, and coolant levels checked. 4. How are the tires doing? Check your tire pressure – changes in the outside temperatures can... --- When you buy a new car, you fully expect to get many years – and miles – out of it. Any you will – if you follow some important preventive maintenance tips. Many people don’t do what they should to care for their vehicle and end up with extra repairs and issues they could have avoided. So, what should you be doing to make sure your car stays in good working condition for a long time? 1. Always consult your owner’s manual One of the most important “parts” of your vehicle is in the glove box, not under your hood. Your owner’s manual is filled with valuable, vital information that’s specific to your car’s make and model. 2. Tire pressure is important Did you know that under-inflated tires have a much shorter lifespan than those that are properly filled? Plus, you won’t get great gas mileage, either. On the other hand, over-inflated tires put you at risk for a blowout which can be dangerous. It’s recommended that you get a good tire gauge and check the tire pressure about once a month. 3. Get a tire rotation You want your tires to wear evenly. Your trusted mechanic can clue you in as to how often this needs to be done AND your all-important owner’s manual will give you guidelines, too. 4. Get regular oil changes You’re probably thinking, “I know, I know! Every 3,000 miles or 3 months. ” Well, that information is a bit outdated – especially if your... --- Ahh, a brand-spankin’ new vehicle. There’s not much better than new-car-smell. But one of the best things about today’s latest cars is the infrequency of service they require. For example, spark plugs can go for up to 100,000 miles and some transmissions won’t need to be lubed for the life of the vehicle. Let’s take a look at what you DO need to think about to keep your new vehicle fresh. Keep it clean We’re starting out simple, but a weekly wash is an important step. It’s important to pay attention to the fenders and undercarriage to remove dust, dirt, and road salt. Here’s a handy way to tell if it’s time for a fresh coat of wax: When you hose down the car for the weekly washing, check out the size of the beads of water that form. When they start to get bigger than a quarter, apply new wax. New-car maintenance timeline Did you know that under-inflated tires have a much shorter lifespan than those that are properly filled? Plus, you won’t get great gas mileage, either. Here’s a helpful timeline to help you keep your car care on track and keep your new car looking like it just came off the lot. At every oil change Most new vehicles can go as many as 7,500 miles before an oil change, though you should always follow the recommendation of your owner’s manual. These other areas should be given a check at the same time: Air filter. Constant-velocity joint... --- Maintaining your car seems like a no-brainer. But you’d be surprised how many people neglect the important tasks that keep cars running smoothly. Get the most out of your vehicle and avoid unnecessary and costly repairs by paying attention to these systems and following some simple tips. The engine Here are the services that should be performed periodically to keep your engine humming along as it should: Change the oil according to your owner’s manual’s recommendations. Change the oil, air, and fuel filters. Have the PCV valve checked. Spark plugs and spark plug wires should be inspected. Your transmission Keep an eye on your transmission fluid to avoid added wear and tear and to extend the life. Sidenote: A transmission is an expensive fix that can usually be avoided with preventive maintenance. The emissions system If you want your vehicle to run quietly AND efficiently, you’ll stay on top of the emissions system. It does important job, all while hanging on the bottom of your car. Needless to say, it can take a beating. Having it inspected once a year is standard, but always defer to the wisdom of your owner’s manual and what your trusted mechanic suggests. Your brake system You’ll notice a theme here – always go to your owner’s manual. It’s certainly true for your brake system. Few parts of your vehicle are as critical for safety as your brakes. Have them inspected at the interval your manual and mechanic suggest, but make an appointment ASAP if... --- Car repairs. Ugh. You probably put them off as long as you can. There are always more pressing matters to deal with, right? The truth is, there are certain issues that you can’t afford to procrastinate on. Here are the symptoms you should never ignore. 1. Leaking coolant If you notice that your vehicle is leaking coolant, it’s critical that you get it looked at right away. Otherwise, your engine could overheat, causing catastrophic damage. Make sure to have your coolant levels checked periodically to ensure they’re sufficient – and that the fluid is clean. Contaminants can wreak havoc on your engine, too. 2. Noisy engine Two sounds you don’t want to hear coming from your engine are clunking and knocking. If you notice anything like this, it’s time to get to your trusted mechanic right away. These types of noises can indicate misfiring pistons. Over time, the situation can worsen and you’ll be looking at a massive repair bill that could have been avoided. 3. Steering issues When it comes to problems with your vehicle, you never want to play fast and loose with your safety. If your steering system isn’t working correctly, you can crash your car. It goes without saying what a danger this is for you, as well as that of others on the road. You may have a crack in your power steering belt or it may have broken completely. You’ll know something’s wrong if your steering starts to feel loose or it becomes difficult... --- Ahh, spring! ! The sun comes out, the breezes get a whole lot warmer, and you start itching to get out. Before you take to the open road, follow these steps to make sure your vehicle is as ready for the new season as you are. 1. Wax on, wax off (but wash first! ) Grit, grime and all manner of gunk collect on your vehicle during the winter months. And of course, the damaging salt. Give your car a thorough wash and wax to make sure the crud doesn’t stick around long enough to dull your paint job or cause rust. 2. Clean out the inside Nobody wants to spend a minute longer in the cold than they have to, so “stuff” can accumulate during the winter. Once it’s warm, spend a day getting rid of papers, trash, and anything else that doesn’t belong. Wipe down the dash and give it a good vacuum – you’ll feel so much better! 3. How’s your tire pressure? The cool winter temps can cause the air pressure in your tires to decrease. As the air starts warming up, the pressure increases. Be sure to follow the directions in your owner’s manual to determine the correct pressure for your particular vehicle. If this isn’t something you’re comfortable DIY-ing, have your trusted mechanic take a look. 4. Inspect the wiper blades Give your wiper blades the once-over, looking for cracks or signs of excessive wear. The ice and snow build-up over winter can cause... --- You may be ready for spring, but is your vehicle? Just because you got a tune-up or took care of some general maintenance before winter hit, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Winter weather takes a heavy toll on your car. The damage may be hidden and you don’t want any nasty surprises down the road. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your vehicle’s ready for spring. 1. Tire check Most of today’s vehicles come outfitted with all-season tires. While they’re safe and flexible, they don’t have quite as much give as snow tires. They tend to get stiffer in the cold weather, which means cracks and other damage can occur. Take your vehicle in for a tire inspection. It may be a good idea to get a rotation, too, depending on what your expert technician tells you. 2. Take a “brake” What happens when you step on the brakes? Do you hear a grinding sound? It’s time to pay a visit to your trusted mechanic. Even if you don’t hear or feel anything amiss, it’s still a good idea to get an inspection. 3. Don’t forget the underbody It’s natural to want the outside of your vehicle to look shiny and clean. What you may not think about is all the crud that builds up underneath the car during a winter full of slush and salt. An automatic car wash is a great choice for getting rid of all the gunk that’s built up in... --- The bags are packed. The snacks are ready to go. Time to take off on a springtime road trip. You and the family are ready to go. But what about your car? Make sure your vehicle is as ready to roll as you are by checking each of these components. 1. Oil After the harshness of winter, it’s a good idea to have your oil changed – or, at least, inspected, by an expert auto technician. Your vehicle owner’s manual is also a good source of information for an oil-change timeline. 2. Battery A new battery for your car isn’t too expensive. But when you add the price of a tow truck? That’s a different story. It’s better to be safe than sorry and have your battery checked before you head out on a trip. 3. Air filter After winter, it’s a good idea to change the air filter so that the air you’re breathing inside the vehicle is clean and fresh. 4. Windshield Give the inside and outside of the windshield a good washing. Check the wiper blades, too. If they’re showing signs of wear after a snowy, icy winter, it’s time to replace them. You’ll definitely need them for the rains of spring. 5. Exterior lights Don’t hit the road without making sure all of your vehicle’s exterior lights are in good working order. It’s dangerous to drive around at night with a headlight, taillight, turn signal or brake light out. Not to mention, you could get pulled... --- Your windshield wipers play a huge role in keeping you safe on the road. Not only is driving with a dirty, wet windshield annoying, but the lack of visibility is dangerous for you and the other drivers you encounter. To get the most out of your wipers, follow these tips. 1. Don’t use your wipers on a dry windshield You may think it’s a great way to get rid of dust on the windshield. It’s not. Always use your washer button if the windshield’s dry. Wipers are specifically designed to be used on a wet surface. Another thing to remember is to turn off the wipers before you turn off the engine. If you don’t, you risk running the wipers on a dry windshield the next time you turn the car on. 2. Use the defroster and ice scraper first Yes, your wipers can move snow and might even scrape off some of the ice, but it’s not ideal. Ice and/or heavy snow can make your wipers stick. Turning on the defrost and using the ice scraper are your first lines of defense. Stuck wipers may break free, but they could get damaged and leave streaks on your windshield. In addition to the wipers themselves, you could harm the motor that moves the blades, causing you to pay for an expensive repair. 3. Keep the windshield clean Wiping across dirty class will cause your windshield wipers to wear out more quickly. Get into the habit of cleaning your windshield every... --- Warm weather will be here before you know it. Imagine loading everyone into the car for a road trip and you turn on the AC only to have hot air blowing in your face. No bueno. The good news is that you can prevent being in this scenario by having your vehicle’s air conditioning system checked out by your trusted mechanic BEFORE the warmest weather hits. Here’s what you need to know. Cleaned condenser The condenser has an important job. It turns the hot air into cold air. Here’s how: Refrigerant enters the condenser tubes in the form of pressurized gas. This gas cools as it flows through the tubes and turns into a liquid. The process produces the cold air you feel when you blast the AC. Dirt, dust, and other environmental debris can clog up the condenser, causing it to fail to work properly. Have an experienced auto mechanic take a look at your condenser and give it a good cleaning, if it needs it. A word of caution: This is not a job you want to DIY. The fins on the condenser are fragile and they can be damaged easily if you don’t know how to handle them just right. Air filter replacement Before that glorious cool air reaches you, it goes through an air filter that’s designed to remove the dust, pollen, and other unwanted junk before it reaches you. It’s important for everyone’s health but especially for those who have asthma or other breathing and... --- Steering and suspension. They’re separate systems that are usually spoken of together because they work in tandem to keep your vehicle under your control. Here’s what you need to know about these important structures. The purpose of your steering and suspension systems When you think about the word “suspension,” it’s not too hard to figure out what this system does in your vehicle. It supports the weight of your car, ensures a smooth ride, and makes your vehicle handle as it should. The steering component provides directional control of your vehicle. It sets the direction for the suspension system. Your steering and suspension are made up of: Struts. Shocks. Control Arm. Bushings. Ball Joints. Coil Springs. Steering Linkage. Sway Bar Links. Center Links. Idler Arms/Pitman Arms. Rack and Pinion Units. Tie Rod Ends/Sleeves. CV Joints/Boots. CV Axle Half Shafts. Shock Absorbers. MacPherson Struts/Cartridges. Universal Joints and Springs. Having your steering and suspension inspected Your day-to-day driving is enough to cause wear and tear on these two systems. All the elements that make up the steering and suspension will wear out over time. The wear on the steering and suspension systems can have a negative effect on the way your car handles, cause your tires to wear more quickly and make your ride a whole lot less comfortable. Having your vehicle checked out by your trusted mechanic will ensure any issues are discovered before you end up stranded somewhere. Frequency of steering and suspension inspection Here are some general guidelines to... --- Ugh! A flat. Being a vehicle owner means you have a whole lot to think about in terms of maintenance and repair. Tires are one of the most important components of your vehicle to keep up with. No matter how attentive you are, you may still end up with a flat tire at some point. The big question becomes, “Can it be repaired? ” Here’s what you need to know. 1. Sometimes a repair does the trick It’s best to consult a tire specialist and get their opinion on whether a repair is the best route. Ask them if the tire will perform normally after it’s repaired. Remember, a bad tire can put everyone who rides in your vehicle at risk. A general rule is that only a puncture that’s less than ¼ inch in diameter should be repaired. An issue larger than that will usually mean it’s best to replace the tire. It’s also normally a better idea to replace a tire if the damage is to the sidewall. Your trusted mechanic will also look at the tread depth of the tire. If it’s too worn, it’s probably not worth fixing. 2. The tire repair process As a consumer, it’s not vital for you to know the step-by-step process, but there are a few things you should understand. The tire should be taken off of the car and it should also be removed from the wheel. Take your vehicle to a different repair shop if they attempt to fix... --- Trust is a big deal. When you hop in your car each morning, you trust that when you turn the key (or press the button), your engine will fire right up and you’ll be good to go. This kind of confidence is the result of properly maintaining your vehicle. Not sure if you need a tune-up? Then you probably do. Here are some tell-tale signs that it’s time. 1. Lower fuel economy Tire problems are the leading cause of breakdowns. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can cause blowouts and accidents – either of which can be avoided by regular checks. Begin with the pressure, especially if the car has been sitting for awhile or it’s cold outside. Next, check the surface of the entire tire. This can be difficult to monitor but it should be obvious when it becomes significant. There are a number of factors that go into determining fuel efficiency that can also be addressed by a tune-up, such as: Your emissions system efficiency. How smoothly your engine is functioning. Wheel alignment. 2. Stalling You may overlook one instance of stalling – though you really shouldn’t. It could be dangerous for you or others. There are several issues that cause your vehicle to stall – including bad spark plugs or a clogged oil filter – but nearly all of them can be prevented (or remedied) by keeping up with your car’s maintenance schedule. 3. Illuminated check-engine light Once a warning light has shown up, it’s usually an indication that... --- Ah, technology. As vehicles become more advanced, fixing them is more complex. When an electrical system malfunctions, it can wreak havoc on your vehicle. When you notice an issue and take your car to your trusted mechanic, there are several things they’ll be looking at to diagnose the problem. Here’s what you need to know. Battery There are several things that the mechanic will check out on your battery. Look for corrosion on terminals Check the casing for cracks. Inspect for frayed cables. Starter These symptoms can all be the result of a starter that needs attention. Grinding noise. This happens when the starter drive gear isn’t engaging properly. Smoke. It’s always alarming to see smoke. In terms of the starter, it usually means that too much power is being pulled through the electrical system. Freewheeling. This occurs when you try to start the engine and, instead, only hear a whining noise without the engine turning over. The starter isn’t engaging with the flywheel. It’s soaked in oil. A starter that is coated in oil from an engine leak doesn’t have a whole lot of life left. Solenoid malfunction. The vital function of the solenoid is to transmit electrical current from the battery to the starter. When it’s not working, your starter won’t work as it should, either. Alternator Your trusted auto technician will probably check your alternator with a voltmeter, but these are some of the symptoms you might notice when it begins to fail. Dim lights. Check engine... --- You know your vehicle. It doesn’t take you long to become familiar with the nuances of your car. The sounds it makes, the way it handles, and the way it feels as you’re cruising down the highway as opposed to tooling around town. That’s why you’ll likely notice if something is amiss. For example, when your vehicle starts drifting to the right or the left, it’s a good sign it’s time for a wheel alignment. Having your car periodically aligned is one of the main components of proper maintenance. Here’s what you need to know. Signs your car needs to be aligned Here are the tell-tale indications that it’s time for an alignment: Your tires are wearing unevenly. Noticeable pulling to the left or right. Steering wheel is off-center when you’re driving straight. Your steering wheel vibrates. What causes misalignment? There are a few situations that can cause your car to lose its proper alignment. It can occur gradually, over time, as the natural result of being driven over normal roads and highways. Hitting a large bump or pothole. Being involved in an accident. Consequences of waiting too long Sometimes, knowing your car needs to be looked at is pushed to the back of your mind as you deal with what seems to be more pressing issues. The problem is that you’ll end up doing serious and costly damage to your vehicle if you put off getting an alignment. Here’s what can happen: Poor handling. A pulling, vibrating steering wheel... --- What’s the only part of your car that makes contact with the road? Tires. No matter how well you take care of them, they’ll eventually need to be replaced. A new set can be costly, so you’ll want to make the ones you have last as long as possible. Here’s what you need to know about taking proper tire maintenance. 1. Rotation Your tires should be rotated about every 5,000-7,000 miles or at every second oil change. This ensures that the tread wears evenly and last a long time. Each vehicle’s owner manual will supply a suggested pattern for the rotation. For example, it may suggest simply moving the front tires to the back and vice versa, or it may instruct you to exchange them diagonally. 2. Check tire pressure It’s not a bad idea to check your tire pressure every time you fill up your vehicle with gas. Keep in mind that your tires will naturally lose 1-2 psi each month. As the weather gets colder, this can happen more quickly. Incorrectly inflated tires are dangerous. If the pressure is too low, your tires won’t be able to grip the road when it’s wet and rainy. 3. Visual inspection It’s also important to give your tires a visual inspection on a regular basis. You definitely want to check them out if you hit a curb, pothole, or any debris on the road. You’re looking for holes, worn areas, and places where there may be bulging. The tread depth is... --- Today’s vehicles have some fancy-schmancy heating-system features. You can be one temperature while your passenger can be a different one, for example. Vents for the people in the back and heated seats also add to the luxury of making each passenger as comfortable as possible. But sometimes something goes awry with your heating (or cooling) system. What then? Here are some ideas you can start with in an attempt to get to the bottom of the issue. Heater core This small part has a big job. Heated radiator fluid is diverted through the heater core where it’s dispersed by a fan. The fan blows the warmed air through your vehicle’s ductwork and then into the car’s cabin where it warms you and your passengers. If you notice a problem with your heater, the first place to check is the hoses that make up the ductwork. Another possible issue could be that the heater core itself needs to be replaced. If you don’t feel any air moving at all, the problem could be the fan. Exhaust systems and ducts A clogged exhaust can cause your vehicle to overheat – even in the coldest weather. This is a fairly serious issue and will require you to get in touch with your trusted mechanic right away. On the other hand, If the issue is clogged vents, you’re in luck. You can vacuum them out, clearing any debris that could be causing things to get stopped up. Antifreeze One of the most important elements... --- A fresh year gives you the urge to make everything new. One of the ways you can chase that feeling is to make your vehicle seem like it’s brand new. There are some easy ways you can make your car match your renewed attitude. Here’s what you need to know. 1. Deep clean carpet and upholstery Dirty, grimy carpet and upholstery makes your car look (and feel) old and worn. You can use a carpet-cleaning machine to refresh your vehicle’s interior. The machine will spray the carpet with a solution of cleaner and water and then sucks the dirt out of the carpet and upholstery fibers. If you don’t want to invest in purchasing a carpet cleaner – though, it’ll pay for itself after a few uses – you can always rent one. 2. Get rid of old, peeling bumper stickers Yes, your bumper stickers probably hold some memories of a meaningful part of life, but scraping off the remnants of stickers won’t take away those memories. If the stickers you used were high-quality, they should easily pull off if you can get under a corner. In other situations, you might have a gummy residue left behind. All you have to do is use a good degreaser, like Goof Off or Goo Gone, and it’ll be taken care of in no time. 3. Pay attention to the nooks and crannies Your usual once-over won’t give your car the new look you’re going for. Getting into all the trim lines and... --- Winter happens. If you live in an area that experiences all four seasons, you know this all too well. You also know that winterizing your vehicle is an actual thing. One important part of getting your car ready for the cold season is an oil change. Changing the oil in the winter isn’t all that different from changing it at any other time of year, but there are a few things specific to the season that you need to be aware of. Timing Of course, you should always defer to the instructions provided in your owner’s manual. But, it’s generally recommended that you get an oil change before the cold weather hits. If you have a vehicle that you store during the winter, it’s a good idea to change your oil and filters before it sits for an extended period of time. If you don’t, water and acid (by-products of combustion) can build up and damage the engine. Taming the cold If you’re changing your own oil in the winter, there are a few things that can make it easier. Running the engine for several minutes before you change the oil will warm it enough that it will thin and drain more easily and quickly. Store your wrench in a warm location before you begin. The metal of the wrench attracts cold and holds onto it, making it uncomfortable to work with, even with gloved hands. You don’t need to change to a different oil viscosity in the winter. Today’s... --- Don’t let your trip to Grandma’s for the holidays get ruined by a breakdown. Your car needs regular maintenance to keep running at peak performance. One of the most important aspects is changing out your vehicle’s fluids periodically. As the weather changes from warm to cold, it’s especially important to have your car’s fluids evaluated by a knowledgeable mechanic. Here are the six most important fluids your auto technician will be looking at: 1. Brake fluid Brake fluid (also known as hydraulic fluid) makes sure that all the components of your braking system can move as they should. It has to do its job under both high temperatures and pressure. If it’s too low or you don’t have any, your car won’t stop when you engage your brakes, which can be a dangerous situation. 2. Antifreeze Despite the simplicity of its name, antifreeze has several important functions: Protecting your engine from corrosion. Aids in heat transfer. Prevents scale from building up inside the engine. Raises the boiling point of engine coolant so that your car doesn’t overheat. Prevents water from freezing. 3. Power Steering fluid Power steering fluid is the “power” behind your power steering. Got that? Basically, your power steering fluid transmits power to your power steering, allowing the steering wheel to move easily. Without this fluid, you wouldn’t be able to turn the wheel and control where your car goes. 4. Transmission fluid This important liquid provides lubrication for all the moving parts that make up your vehicle’s... --- That little red light that can strike fear into any heart – especially with the holiday travel season just around the corner. It’s not Rudolph’s nose or the glow of your Christmas tree – it’s the Check Engine light, of course. What does this little red beacon of despair indicate? Often, the culprit is your transmission. Let’s take a look at what function your transmission performs and how to tell if it needs some attention. What does the transmission do? It essentially carries power from your vehicle’s engine to the drive axle. Various gears are involved in the process, which accounts for the different speeds at which your car can run. Signs of trouble There are some telltale indicators that something’s amiss with your transmission. Watch out for: A burning smell from the transmission fluid. Unusual noises when your car is in neutral. Think humming, clunking, and grinding. The clutch staying engaged and making a grinding noise when you try to shift. The transmission going into neutral or otherwise changing gears while you’re driving. Your vehicle lagging between gear changes and running at a higher RPM than is normal. Common culprits Here’s what could be causing your Check-Engine-Light drama. 1. The transmission fluid needs to be changed. A full fluid exchange (or flush) may be necessary or the fluid and filter may need to be changed. The difference between the two services is that a transmission fluid flush includes the pan being cleaned and the filter and gasket are replaced.... --- Your car’s exhaust system is pretty important. It serves several essential functions, not the least of which is keeping you and other vehicle occupants safe. As you start thinking about winter travel, don’t neglect the necessary maintenance for your exhaust system. Here’s what you need to know. The job of the exhaust system If this system is doing its job, you won’t even notice it. The main purpose is to divert dangerous exhaust fumes away from the vehicle’s engine and decrease how harmful they are. If the fumes aren’t diverted, they can cause the engine compartment to deteriorate and can even be deadly if the noxious carbon monoxide were to build up and seep into the cabin where you and your passengers are riding. But that’s not all. When your exhaust system is well-maintained, your vehicle’s emissions are reduced and you’ll get better fuel economy. Exhaust system components Most modern exhaust systems are made up of four parts. 1. Exhaust manifold This part of the exhaust system connects to the engine and expels the exhaust fumes away from the engine and into the exhaust system components. 2. Catalytic converter The catalytic converter burns off and removes as many of the toxins as possible. It’s responsible for reducing carbon monoxide and minimizing air pollution coming from your car. 3. Muffler You’ll know it if your vehicle needs a new muffler. And so will all your neighbors. As its name suggests, the muffler reduces the noise that comes from your exhaust so... --- Time with family is a hallmark of the Holiday season. For many people, that means extra time on the road. The more time you spend in the car, the greater the chances are that you’ll wind up in an accident. Here’s what you need to know about using your vehicle’s headlights and horn to stay safe as you travel. Headlights for safety Did you know that 31% of car accidents occur after dark? But the highest number occur between the hours of 3 and 6 p. m. Whether you’re driving in the city or the country, headlights can actually be helpful during the day, too, especially when you’re dealing with fog or gray, rainy weather. The general rules to follow include: Turning your headlights on anytime between sunset and sunrise. Using your lights any other time that it’s dark enough to hinder you from seeing a person wearing dark clothing within 100 yards. Using your high beams It’s a good idea to use your high beams most of the time when driving in the dark – even when you’re driving in an area with street lights. Switch to your low beams when you’re within 200 yards of an oncoming vehicle or you’re following another car within 200 yards. Using the horn Contrary to popular belief, your vehicle isn’t equipped with a horn so you can express your frustration at the slow-poke you’re stuck behind. Here’s when it’s appropriate to use your horn: You need to warn another vehicle that you’re... --- Your vehicle has many parts that all work together to keep you cruising through life. It’s easy to remember “big” things, like brakes, tires, and regular oil changes. What you might not think about is the various filters your car uses. They may seem like small potatoes but the fact of the matter is these little factors can have a big impact. Here’s what you need to know about air, fuel, and oil filters. Air filter Your vehicle’s engine takes in air for combustion, making your car get-up-and-go. The air filter removes impurities in the air before it goes through the engine. Because this has a direct effect on how your vehicle runs, it also has an impact on your fuel-efficiency. If you live in a heavily-polluted or dusty area, you’ll need to clean and change your air filter more often. You should always follow the advice of your owner’s manual, but it’s generally recommended that you change your air filter at least once a year. Oil filter The oil filter also has an important role to play in the life of your engine. It also has a significant impact on your car’s performance. As the parts of your engine work together, the normal wear and tear produces tiny metal shavings can build up and hinder the flow. These shavings end up in your oil pan and can be cycled back through the engine, potentially causing damage. The oil filter keeps these contaminants out of your engine. You should have... --- All the intricate pieces and parts of your car work together to get you where you want to go. Maintenance for some components is easy to remember. Oil changes, checking your brakes, and keeping your tires filled properly stay pretty close to the top of your mind. Shocks and struts? That’s a different story. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of these important parts of your vehicle. What do your struts and shocks do? Their main job is to make sure your vehicle stays in proper contact with the road’s surface, maintaining stability and balance. They provide you with a safe, smooth ride and keep your car from bouncing all over the place when the weather is bad or the road is rough. Your car’s suspension has springs that bear the brunt of the potholes and bumps you hit in the road. Your shocks keep your car from continuing to bounce on the suspension springs after you’ve hit a bump. How do you know if something’s wrong? You need to have your shocks and struts inspected regularly for wear and tear. By the time you notice something is wrong, you’re past the point of needing to replace a part or two. Here’s what you may notice if your shocks and/or struts are failing: Your vehicle bottoms out when you hit a bump. Your front end dips forward when you apply the brakes. You see fluid leaking from the location of the shocks and struts. Your vehicle sways... --- If you own a car, you’re probably at least familiar with the term “emissions. ” Emissions are the pollutants given off as a result of your car burning gasoline. They include all kinds of nasty contaminants that stick around in the air long after your car’s life has ended, such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and more. Every vehicle comes equipped with emission control systems that are designed to reduce the air-pollution that comes from your vehicle. When something goes wrong Like every part of your vehicle, sometimes emissions system repairs are needed. Things can get a little confusing when something goes wrong considering how complex today’s vehicles are. When your Check Engine light comes on, there’s a good chance your emissions system is malfunctioning. Finding the right auto technicians Due to the complicated nature of car’s computer systems, your best bet is to take your car to an expertly trained and ASE certified technician. At Conrad’s, we have state-of-the-art equipment that we can use to diagnose your vehicle. Our technicians are always undergoing technical training to keep their skills sharp. Let Conrad’s help Whether your Check Engine light has mysteriously lit up or it’s time for some routine maintenance, come and see us at Conrad’s. We’re happy to help you with any of your vehicle needs. Get in touch today! --- The aftermath of a car accident is never easy to deal with. Whether you’ve had a major collision, a mild fender-bender, or you’ve backed into something, chances are you’ll have to deal with repairs. When your car’s in an accident of any type, obviously large components can be damaged but so can the smaller ones you don’t see. You have options Think carefully about who you’ll have working on your vehicle. You can go to your dealer, but that may not be the best choice. Instead of being put through the wringer with the service department, consider bringing your wounded car to Conrad’s. What Conrad’s can do for you We have all the parts needed to make your vehicle as good as new, including interior and exterior body trim components for any make or model – whether it’s domestic or foreign. Worried about matching the color? Our body-repair experts know just what to do. As far as the interior goes, we can handle: Rear-view mirrors. Arm rests. Sun visors Control knobs Seat covers. Dashboard components. Glove-box doors. Dome lights. Air vents. On the exterior of your vehicle, we can fix: Side-view mirrors. Tail-light lenses. Headlight lenses. Fog-light lenses. Antennas. Door handles. Window glass. Emblems. License plate brackets. Hub caps. The Conrad’s difference You shouldn’t trust just anyone with your vehicle. When you bring your car into one of our Conrad’s location, you can rest-assured that you’re getting top-notch service by experts. But you don’t have to wait until your car’s... --- Nobody thinks about what makes their vehicle tick when they get in and turn the key or push the button. There’s a lot going on under the hood and everything has to work together in order for you to get the kids to soccer practice on time. Let’s take a closer look at two of those critical components: The alternator and the starter. All About The Alternator You may think that the majority of your car’s electrical power comes from the battery. But it’s actually the alternator. Its job is to take vehicle’s mechanical energy and turn it into electrical energy. This supplies the power for your engine fan, headlights, ignition coils, the air conditioning, the radio, and some parts of the fuel injection system. It’s important that you have your trusted mechanic check your alternator regularly because it can fail without you knowing it because the battery will take over for a bit. Understanding The Starter The starter uses the opposite kind of energy as the alternator. It turns the electrical energy of the car into mechanical energy. The energy comes from the battery and makes the crankshaft turn, which is how your car begins to move. Unlike the alternator, your starter will give you some warning signs when it’s going bad. You may notice: Grinding. When your starter isn’t engaging properly, you could hear a sound like the one your car makes when you accidentally try to start your car when it’s already been started. Freewheeling. You’ll hear... --- Open your vehicle’s hood and there’s a lot to see. All the components work together to make your car run as it should. It only takes one small part malfunctioning to sideline your plans. Your vehicle has many different belts and hoses that each serve their own important function. Let’s take a look under the hood AND find out what you may experience when these critical elements fail. Types of Belts and Hoses Here’s a rundown of your vehicle’s hoses. Top and bottom radiator hoses. The top hose carries coolant to the radiator. The bottom hose carries the cooled fluid to the water pump, where it travels through the thermostat and on to the engine. Bypass hose. When your car is initially warming up, this hose takes the cooled fluid directly to the engine to speed up the process. Heater hose. This hose is responsible for circulating hot coolant to the heating system, which keeps you toasty warm. When a hose goes bad, you’ll notice signs of hardening. You may also see bulging or swelling and cracks. Leaks can develop and you may notice liquid on the outside of the hose. Let’s move on to your car’s belts. V-belt or serpentine belt. Your car is controlled by one serpentine belt or a series of v-belts. They provide power to the water pump, alternator, power steering system, and cooling fans. Be sure to have your mechanic inspect these belts regularly because they’re expensive to replace and a failure will result in... --- Crisp air. Colorful leaves. Gray clouds. All signs that signal fall’s arrival. If you love to soak in all the sights of the season, you’ll want to check out these perfect Northeastern Ohio spots. Here’s where you need to go. 1. Tinker’s Creek Gorge Scenic Overlook Location: Gorge Parkway, Walton Hills, OH 44146 (in the Beford Reservation) Leaves aren’t the only natural wonder you can experience at Tinker’s Creek Gorge. The actual creek is the largest tributary of the Cuyahoga River and the steep, walled gorge is on full display during the rainy fall season. 2. Virginia Kendall Ledges Location: 405 Truxell Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264 This area is considered the top spot for taking in the autumn colors in NE Ohio. This Akron-area two-mile span of 100-foot tall ledges will give you an amazing view of the tree skyline. 3. The Holden Arboretum Location: 9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland, OH 44094 If you like something with a little bit more to do, you’ll love this Arboretum. It features cultivated gardens, walking trails, the Murch Canopy Walk, and the Kalberer Family Emergent Tower that rises 120 feet out of the forest. 4. Whipps Ledges Location: 2001 State Road, Hinkley, OH 44233 Horseback riders, hikers, and walkers alike will enjoy 20 miles of trails, interspersed with small caves to explore. The 90-acre Hinkley Lake is a stunning backdrop for the colorful fall leaves. 5. Rocky River Reservation Location: 24000 Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH 44070 , (Part of the Rocky River Nature... --- One of the most common car repairs is brakes. No matter what type of vehicle you buy, you’ll need to replace the brakes at some point. Let’s shed some light on the signs that your brakes are in need of repair and what those repairs could include. Signs You Need New Brakes Your car will give you some specific hints when the brakes are on their way out. Here’s what you need to know. Squealing It may seem like a no-brainer, but a high-pitched screeching sound when you apply the breaks is a sign that you need to have your brakes inspected – and probably replaced. What you might not know is that many brake manufacturers put indicators into their brakes to specifically produce the squealing sound as a warning to drivers. Grinding A grinding sound when you press on the brakes is an indication that your problem has gone on a bit too long. It means that the pads weren’t replaced in time or something is rubbing against the rotors the wrong way. The problem may go deeper than just the brake pads. It could indicate brake calipers or pistons grinding on the rotor. If you hear grinding, get your vehicle into the shop as soon as possible. Pulsations or Vibrations When you get to the point that you’re experiencing pulsing and vibrating, you most likely have an issue with your brake rotors. Warped or worn rotors will seriously hinder effective braking. It’s imperative that your brake pads and... --- There’s nothing worse than rushing out the door to work or school, jumping in the car, turning the key and... nothing. The health of your battery is a pretty big deal. You’ll get NOWHERE quick if it fails. Here’s a handy guide to help you care for your battery and avoid a nasty surprise. 1. Clean the case The simplest form of maintenance for your battery is to make sure the case is clean. Dirt and oil can leave a residue that can actually create a current that will drain your battery. You can clean the case by wiping the battery down with moist paper towels and a mild detergent. Check for any cracks or bulging that could indicate a problem. 2. Check the electrolyte level Your battery contains a mixture of sulfuric acid and water. If your battery has removable vent caps, your mechanic will probably check the levels each time you get an oil change. Keep in mind that this can be done on your own, but it’s best to leave it to the pros. 3. Inspect and clean the terminals Take a close look at the battery terminals, posts, and the hardware that holds down the battery. Check for corrosion or loose or cracked connections. If you do see corrosion, you can clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply it with a stiff (nonmetallic) brush. Rinse with clean water. It’s important that you collect the dirty water in a safe container and dispose... --- Anytime your car needs a repair, you probably see dollar signs. As much as you don’t like to spend your hard-earned money on fixing your vehicle, it’s important that you keep up with repairs to extend its life and to keep you and your passengers safe. One of the most common repairs – that every car will need eventually – is brakes. Let’s dig into what you need to know about brake repair. 1. There aren’t any rules about frequency Everyone’s brakes will wear differently and there are several factors that come into play. Your driving habits. Do you haul heavy loads? Do you ride your brakes? Do you follow the vehicle in front of you too closely? The answers to these questions all play a role in how quickly your brakes wear down. Where you’re driving. Your brakes will wear out more quickly if you’re frequently in stop and go traffic, you drive windy roads on a regular basis, or you use your vehicle off-road. 2. Ask the right questions The price for brake repair can vary widely. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you know exactly what you’re getting for your money. Here’s what you should ask. What’s included? A reputable mechanic will include flushing the old brake fluid, adding fresh fluid, resurfacing the rotors, and adjusting all the mechanisms. How long will the job take? Same-day service is great, but it isn’t always feasible. Think about how long you’ll have to wait to get on the... --- It’s never fun to find out you need to replace your tires. But to keep yourself and your passengers safe and avoid damage to your vehicle’s other systems, it’s a necessary expense. Here’s what you need to know about your new tire installation and what it should cover. 1. The right price You shouldn’t pay more for tires than you need to. A reputable supplier will offer you quality products at a price that’s fair. 2. A large variety of tires in stock A tire store that offers a wide range of products means you won’t have to wait longer for a specialty tire or an unusual size. Look for a supplier that offers the best brands, like: BF Goodrich Bridgestone Continental Dunlop Firestone General Tire Goodyear Hankook Kelly Mastercraft Michelin Pirelli Uniroyal 3. Expert services There are several services that you can expect to receive when you’re purchasing new tires and having them installed on your vehicle. Standard tire installation should include: Tire mounting Wheel balancing New rubber valve stem Lifetime rotations and rebalancing Lifetime flat repairs Reset tire pressure monitoring system Lifetime wheel alignment inspections Pro-rated Tire Replacement Road Hazard Protection Choose Conrad’s Conrad’s can offer you all of this – and more. Check it out: Our tire prices are among the lowest and we have over 30 locations in Northeast Ohio. We are one of the largest tire suppliers in the country. Our tire selection exceeds 50,000 tires – in stock. We offer Tire Express which allows... --- Ahh, the fleeting days of summer. It seems the season just arrives and gets settled and then it’s gone again. Luckily, you’re not out of time yet – there’s still time for you to make the most out of your summer. Here are some ideas for squeezing every drop out of your remaining days in the sun. 1. Tour your own town In the day-to-day-ness of life, you fly around your hometown with errands and other things on your mind. How often do you take in what’s around you? Try taking a day to look at your city through the eyes of a tourist – someone who doesn’t know what’s around every bend. Stop in at your local visitor’s bureau and do some research about what makes your area unique. Do an activity you’ve never done before, eat at a restaurant you’ve never tried, or stop in at all the little shops you’ve been meaning to check out. 2. Go to an outdoor sporting event There’s nothing like watching your favorite team take the pitch in person or cheering on your favorite first-baseman from seats behind home plate. Whether it’s a date night or fun for the whole family, take the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while you still can. 3. Travel as much as you can There’s no doubt that road trips in the summer are far superior to any other season. Get in the car and go to as many places as you can before your routine... --- Sometimes you’re forced to make tough choices. When your budget is tight, one of the things you may push to the back-burner is regular vehicle maintenance. The problem is, ignoring what your car needs to keep running well can backfire, costing you more money in the long-run. Check out the maintenance tasks you can’t afford to neglect. 1. Check your tires Tire problems are the leading cause of breakdowns. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can cause blowouts and accidents – either of which can be avoided by regular checks. Begin with the pressure, especially if the car has been sitting for awhile or it’s cold outside. Next, check the surface of the entire tire. You’re looking for: Uneven or irregular wear. Tread depth. Holes, bulges, or warping. If you notice any issues, get in touch with your mechanic right away. 2. Pay attention to the brakes Did you know that a thin layer of your brake pad disintegrates every time you use your brakes? It’s important that brake pads and shoes are replaced before drums or rotors are damaged. Your mechanic will be taking a look at: Pads. Shoes. Drums. Rotors. Calipers. Fittings. Brake hardware. Parking brake. 3. Have your battery tested Whether hot or cold, the outside temperature can take a toll on your battery. Often, your battery doesn’t give you any warning before it goes kaput. There are some signs that could indicate your battery is on its way out. If you notice dimmed lights, a slow-starting engine, or... --- Labor Day is summer’s final hurrah. You get one last long weekend to hit the road and have some fun with the family. Due to the added holiday traffic on the road, it’s important that you take some extra precautions to stay safe. Here’s what you need to know. Beware of drunk drivers The sad reality is that many people consume alcohol during their Labor Day celebrations and then get behind the wheel of their cars, causing an increase in accident-related crashes. Stay alert when you’re driving during this weekend. If you or someone you’re riding with has any alcohol, be sure to get a sober person to drive you home. Police and the State Highway Patrol will be out in full force to crack down on drunk drivers. Don’t risk a ticket or much worse – harming yourself, your family, or someone else. Simple precautions Follow these tips to help you get to where you’re going and back home safely during the long weekend. #1: Make sure your vehicle is ready for the road Especially if you’re taking a long trip. Have all the fluid levels checked, as well as your windshield wipers, lights, and coolant system, and your tires. #2: Buckle up In Ohio, it’s the law. But even if your travels take you out of state, you still need to wear a seat belt. Actually, buckling up can reduce your risk of injuries in an accident by 45% – plus, nobody wants to spend their Labor Day... --- You may not like it, but fall is on the horizon. The heat of summer dissipates, the leaves change, and the busyness of the season sets in. After all the wear-and-tear of warm-weather road trips, there’s a good chance your vehicle needs some care in order to get you and the family where you need to go in the fall. Here’s what you need to focus on. Lights The days get shorter and that means you’ll be using all your lights more often. Make sure headlights, taillights, flashers, blinkers, and brake lights are clean and working. Replace any that are dim or completely out. Fluid levels Have all the fluid levels checked and topped off. The transition from summer to fall is a good time to have your oil changed, but always go by the suggestions in your owner’s manual. Don’t forget about your windshield washer fluid. Rainy autumn days or nights can hinder your visibility – especially on a dirty windshield. Windshield wipers The heat of summer can cause your wiper blades to become warped or cracked. For safety’s sake, you should replace them at the end of summer and go into fall with a fresh set. Windshield If you have any cracks or chips in your windshield, now’s the time to get them taken care of. Once the weather gets colder, they can spread and be a much harder issue to deal with. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning Of course you want to stay cool in the summer... --- --- ## Specials --- ## Store Locator ---