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Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump

Your vehicle needs gas to run. And for that gas to get to your engine, you need a fuel pump. The vehicle fuel pump plays a critical role in the overall performance and efficiency of vehicles. However, like any mechanical part, fuel pumps can wear out over time and eventually fail. Recognizing the warning signs of a failing fuel pump can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. It’s all about catching it in time. Signs of a Failing Fuel Pump Engine Sputtering or Surging If the fuel pump is not supplying the required amount of fuel to the engine, it can result in inconsistent fuel delivery. That inconsistency can lead to engine sputtering and surging during acceleration. The engine could also hesitate, lose power, or surge forward unexpectedly. If you experience any unusual behavior while accelerating, it's time to have your fuel pump/fuel system inspected. Difficulty Starting the Engine A failing fuel pump can make it difficult to start your vehicle, especially after it has been sitting [...]

By |2024-09-09T14:07:54-06:00June 23rd, 2023|Car Parts, Car Service & Maintenance|0 Comments
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Texas Car Maintenance Tips

With scorching temperatures and high humidity, Texas summers can be brutal for both people and their vehicles. As the mercury rises, it becomes crucial to take extra care of your car to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential breakdowns. Let’s dive into our Texas car maintenance tips that will help you stay cool and handling the heat this summer. Beating the Summer Heat: Texas Car Maintenance Tips Tip 1: Regularly Check and Maintain the Cooling System The cooling system is your car's lifeline; ESPECIALLY during the summer months in Texas. Maintaining your vehicles cooling system includes: Ensuing that the radiator is filled with the appropriate coolant mixture and checking for any leaks. Inspecting the hoses for signs of wear and tear, and replace them if necessary. Cleaning the radiator's fins. Clearing any debris from the front of the radiator and/or a/c condenser to allow efficient cooling. Flushing and replacing the coolant according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Keeping the cooling system well-maintained will help to prevent your engine from overheating [...]

By |2024-09-09T14:08:49-06:00May 24th, 2023|Car Service & Maintenance, Car Tips & Auto Maintenance|0 Comments
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Maintaining Car Belts and Hoses

Maintaining car belts and hoses is essential for ensuring the proper function of your vehicle. Texas drivers are no stranger to hot and humid weather conditions, which can take a toll on the vehicle’s belts and hoses. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to properly maintain your vehicle’s belts and hoses to keep your car or truck running smoothly on the roads of Texas. Maintaining Car Belts and Hoses Inspect Your Belts and Hoses Regularly One of the most important steps to maintaining your car or truck’s belts and hoses is to inspect them regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or fraying. You can also check the belts and hoses for any signs of leaking, bulging, or soft spots. It's a good idea to inspect your belts and hoses every 6 months or 6,000 miles; whichever comes first. Replace Any Worn Out Belts or Hoses If you notice any signs of wear and tear on your belts or hoses, it's [...]

By |2023-05-04T11:11:35-06:00May 4th, 2023|Car Service & Maintenance, Car Tips & Auto Maintenance|0 Comments
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Money Saving Driving Tips

Driving can be expensive — gas, vehicle maintenance, repairs, and more. So, you may find yourself searching for some money saving driving tips. By following a few simple routine changes, you can save and keep some extra money in your pocket. Money Saving Driving Tips Drive More Efficiently Efficient driving means high gas efficiency. But, what does that involve? Driving efficiently means accelerating slowly, avoiding sudden stops and starts, and maintaining a steady speed. Driving at a consistent speed can help you save up to 30% on gas. Additionally, driving at a lower speed can also help you save money, as it reduces the amount of wind resistance your car has to overcome. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated Properly inflated tires can help you save money on gas and reduce the risk of tire damage —a two for one special. When your tires are underinflated, your car has to work harder to move, which can decrease your gas mileage. On the other hand, overinflated or [...]

By |2023-04-13T13:17:30-06:00April 13th, 2023|Car Tips|0 Comments
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Yearly Preventative Car Maintenance

Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility, and one of the most important things you can do to ensure your vehicle's longevity is yearly preventative car maintenance. Regular maintenance keeps your car on the road and your money in your wallet. In this article, we will discuss the preventative car maintenance you should be doing every year to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Yearly Preventative Car Maintenance Oil Change One of the most critical preventative maintenance tasks you should perform is an oil change. Regular oil changes keep your engine lubricated, reduce friction, and prevent wear and tear on your engine components. Many vehicle manufacturers recommend changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or every six months, whichever comes first. If you frequently drive in dusty conditions or make short trips, you may need to change your oil more frequently. If you’re using a semi-synthetic oil, it’s recommended you change your oil and filter every 3-3,500 miles and if you’re using full synthetic oil, it’s [...]

By |2023-04-05T09:06:37-06:00April 5th, 2023|Car Service & Maintenance|0 Comments
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What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid?

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a combination of urea and deionized air. This fluid is essential for keeping a diesel engine running smoothly and provides a reduction of harmful contaminants, such as nitrogen oxide, that are released into the environment. When this fluid is allowed to run low, diesel vehicles suffer from reduced performance and may even cease to turn on until the tank is refilled. The Importance of Diesel Exhaust Fluid Diesel exhaust fluid helps to reduce the amount of pollution that is produced by medium and heavy-duty diesel engine exhaust systems. The SCR system injects the DEF into the exhaust, transforming harmful pollutants into clean air through a chemical reaction. DEF is not a fuel additive and it's stored in a separate tank. While it may seem like an inconvenience to spend money on an extra fluid, drivers of diesel trucks, buses, and heavy machinery need DEF to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Do All Diesel Vehicles Require Exhaust Fluid? Vehicle manufacturers began implementing selective catalytic [...]

By |2023-03-14T12:22:21-06:00March 14th, 2023|Car Parts, Car Questions|0 Comments
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Car Parts 101: Mass Airflow Sensor

Mass airflow sensors are an integral component of your vehicle's functionality. If something malfunctions with the sensor, you'll notice immediate signs that something has gone awry. The engine at best, will run poorly or it may not run at all. How Does a Mass Airflow Sensor Work? Mass airflow sensors can also be referred to as air meters. They play a fundamental role within your automobile's system by measuring the amount of air entering the engine. The input provided by the sensor then allows the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) to regulate the opening and closing of the fuel injectors, adjust ignition timing and when the ignition coil/s fire. The aforementioned parts, in harmony with the PCM, allows the air to fuel ratio stay in proper balance. The MAF sensor has two sensing wires. Via an electrical current, one wire is heated and cooled down by the amount of air that flows over the heated wire.  As the temperature difference fluctuates between the two wires, this provides input to the PCM to either provide more [...]

By |2023-02-24T09:40:57-06:00February 22nd, 2023|Car Parts|0 Comments
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Improving Diesel Truck Performance

Today's diesel trucks are rugged and ready for any adventure you may throw at them. Keeping your diesel truck running efficiently means reliability and helps you ensure you're getting the most use out of it. 5 Ways Boost Performance on a Diesel Truck Every driver's mileage may vary in terms of how they want to boost the performance of their truck. Depending on individualized needs and the day-to-day requirements of the your diesel truck, some owners may want to focus on fuel efficiency while others want more power and torque for carrying heavy cargo or towing extra weight. 1. Upgrade the Exhaust System Upgrading the exhaust system on your diesel truck with an aftermarket modification can improve the power and torque, but can also boost the fuel economy and overall performance of the vehicle. An exhaust system with a larger capacity takes some strain off the engine and allows it to work more efficiently, especially when you add custom tuning. 2. Install Fuel Injectors Installing aftermarket fuel injectors on [...]

By |2023-02-09T09:20:22-06:00February 9th, 2023|Car Tips|0 Comments
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Signs to Watch for in Older Vehicles

Older vehicles can cost more in maintenance than newer vehicles, though it doesn't mean that they have to be junked due to age. Many makes and models can be reliable for hundreds of thousands of miles. If you want to purchase a cheaper used car that's 10+ years old or you can't stand the thought of parting with the ride that got you through college, you'll want a trusted mechanic for any problems that crop up. Pros and Cons of Driving Older Vehicles The number one reason drivers generally want to purchase an older vehicle is the significantly reduced price. Of course, there are also classic cars that are worth more as they age but this is the exception. There is less depreciation on an older car, which is a huge advantage when it comes to maintaining the vehicle for years to come. Other benefits of purchasing and owning older vehicles include: Lower insurance premiums Fewer add-on fees Affordable option for teen drivers These older vehicles, while budget-friendly, also [...]

By |2023-01-26T09:07:42-06:00January 26th, 2023|Auto Care, Car Tips & Auto Maintenance|0 Comments
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Tips to Have the Best Car Repair Experience

Car repair can be costly and time-consuming, which leaves many drivers frustrated. Establishing a trusted relationship with a local mechanic can be the difference between having a broken-down vehicle and one that runs safely. Heading to the mechanic isn't always the most exciting item on the to-do list, though it's often necessary when you want the best car repair done by a professional. You can ensure the process goes smoothly by preparing yourself before speaking to your mechanic by collecting information, availability, and providing them with a tidy car to work on. Steps to Having the Best Car Repair Experience Before you step into your local repair shop, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you're able to, set up an appointment beforehand to ensure the best service possible. This also provides your mechanic the chance to inquire about the type of work you're needing to be done so that they can prepare more efficiently. Communicate the Mechanical Issue Mechanics can provide solutions to most issues [...]

By |2023-01-23T14:07:58-06:00January 23rd, 2023|Auto Care, Car Tips & Damaged Car, Houston Texas|0 Comments
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