Author: Jeff Cooper

Between regular oil changes, inspections, brake services, battery replacements, air filter checks, and tire care, you might feel familiar with the various care routines that your vehicle needs. However, one important service consideration that is often lost in the shuffle is transmission maintenance. 

A transmission issue often ends in replacement, which can cost several thousand dollars. Thankfully, preventative services—such as transmission fluid flushes—can keep your transmission working in good health. Here is what you need to know about the importance of flushing your transmission fluid.

Why Flushing Transmission Fluid is Necessary

Your transmission system depends on transmission fluid to keep its temperature regulated and to keep all of the parts moving together without harmful friction. However, because the transmission fluid absorbs heat to regulate temperature, this substance begins to breakdown and burn over time. If you wait too long to flush your transmission fluid, your transmission will begin to deteriorate from the inside out. 

Transmission fluid flushes are designed to prevent transmission issues and keep your vehicle working as it should. This process involves cleaning out the old, worn fluid from your system, and replacing it with fresh transmission fluid to keep your vehicle healthy.

When Should I Flush My Transmission Fluid?

You might now be wondering, “When do I need to get my transmission fluid flushed?” The cadence of this service will depend on your vehicle and your driving patterns. Check your owner’s manual for insight—which will usually tell you how many miles you need between maintenance flushes. 

If you do not see the recommended transmission flush guidelines, your engine may have “lifetime” transmission fluid due to a sealed transmission. However, sealed transmissions can still let contaminants into your vehicle, simply at a much slower rater than traditional engines. You may still need a transmission fluid flush once every few years. Consult your local mechanic for further insight. 

Transmission Fluid Checks

Transmission fluid checks are another easy and accurate way to tell if you need a transmission fluid flush. By taking a look under the hood, a professional can check the status of your transmission fluid. This process involves verifying that your transmission fluid levels are full (but not overly full), that your fluid is not discolored, and that it is maintaining proper temperatures. 

This inspection is best left in the hands of an expert. Ask your mechanic to check the transmission fluid each time you get your oil changed. Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we automatically complete comprehensive fluid level checks with every oil change visit. This can help you stay ahead of needed transmission fluid flushes and ensure that your vehicle is receiving proper care. 

Chapel Hill Tire Transmission Fluid Flush

Putting off transmission care can cost you thousands, so Chapel Hill Tire wants to make this maintenance accessible. We offer transmission fluid flush coupons and promotions to help make our everyday low prices even more affordable. We also offer transparent pricing, so you are not left with any surprises. When you are ready to get your transmission fluid flush, visit your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location. We proudly serve drivers throughout the Triangle in our eight locations—including Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Carrboro. Make a transmission fluid flush appointment today to get started!

When getting your vehicle serviced, you might not be surprised if your mechanic tells you it is time for your air filter replacement—however, you may be confused if they told you that you need two air filter replacements. Your car actually has two separate air filters: a cabin air filter and an engine air filter. Each of these filters works to keep harmful contaminants out of your vehicle. So what is the difference between your engine air filter and your cabin air filter? 

What is a Cabin Air Filter?

When you think of an air filter, you likely associate this with a device used to clean the air you breathe. This closely aligns with the functions served by your cabin air filter. Located beneath your dashboard, this filter keeps dust and allergens from circulating through your car’s heating and cooling system. It can be challenging to control the pollutants that go through your vehicle, so your cabin air filter works hard to keep your driving experience safe, comfortable, and healthy. 

How to Know When You Need a Cabin Filter Replacement

The cadence of your air filter replacements depends on your vehicle year, make, and model as well as your driving habits. You may begin to notice a change in the air quality inside of your vehicle, though this transition can be subtle and hard to notice. Generally, you will need to have this filter changed every 20,000-30,000 miles. For a more exact estimate, check your owner’s manual or ask your local mechanic for insight. If you have allergies, breathing sensitivities, experience bad pollen in your area, or live in a city with excess smog, you may need to replace your cabin air filter more frequently. 

What is an Engine Air Filter?

As the name suggests, this air filter is located within your engine to keep harmful debris away from this system. While you may not think much of this small service, regular engine air filter replacements are affordable and can save you thousands of dollars in engine damage. It also helps improve your vehicle’s performance and efficiency so that you save at the pump. This is why a clean engine filter is checked during your annual emissions inspection as well as your annual vehicle inspection. 

How to Know When You Need an Engine Filter Replacement

Much like your cabin filter, the cadence of your needed engine air filter replacement depends on your vehicle type. Certain environmental and driving factors can also impact how frequently you need to replace your engine filter. For drivers who often travel on a dirt road or live in a city with excess pollutants, these hazards could overwhelm your engine filter quickly. You may notice a drop in your fuel efficiency and driving performance as a result of an overdue engine filter replacement. This service is usually needed every 12,000-30,000 miles. If you are still unsure whether or not you need an engine filter replacement, visit your local vehicle service experts for insight. 

Local Car Filter Replacement

Whether you need an engine filter replacement, a cabin filter replacement or any other vehicle service, the experts Chapel Hill Tire are here to help you! Our trusted mechanics include free air filter checks each time you get your Chapel Hill Tire oil change to keep you up-to-date on when you need a replacement. Make an appointment at one of our eight Triangle-area locations—including those in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro—today to get started!

When it is time for your next set of tires, how do you know that you are getting the right tires for your driving preferences and your vehicle? Tires are an investment, and it is important that you get exactly what you are looking for. Here is insight from your local tire experts on getting the right set for you.

Tire Finders and Expert Insight

When it comes to finding the right tires for your vehicle, you are restricted to the tire sizes that will fit; however, you are not limited to the exact tires that come with your vehicle. To find the range of tires that work with your car, you can begin by using a tire finder tool to explore your options. If you are interested in a closer look at the tires available to you, consider making an appointment at your local tire shop. With expert insight on hand to answer any of your questions and offer professional insight, you can get a clear idea of which tires are right for you. 

Price: Balancing Budget and Quality

It is no secret that tires can be costly, but this necessary investment will also help you save money by improving your fuel efficiency, helping you pass your inspections, and keeping you safe on the road. It is still essential to make the most of the money you spend on new tires so that you can find something within your budget. Consider all of the tires that fit your vehicle and compare their prices, ratings, and features. 

Ideally, the tires with the highest ratings will also be the ones that cost the least—but you often get what you pay for when it comes to tires. You may need to pay a little more upfront to save money long-term. For example, investing in tires that are slightly more expensive but will last much longer can help you optimize these costs. You can also consider staying within your budget by shopping from a tire distributor that offers a Price Beat Guarantee, coupons, and available tire warranties. 

Tire Brands and Where to Buy

When considering your options for new tires, you might think that you need to get a certain brand. If you buy from your dealership, they may even insist that you stick to their preferred tire brand. However, a tire shop can offer you the best of both worlds. You can get a high-quality tire brand—whichever you may prefer—at an affordable price. This also relieves you of the dealership wait times and service hassles. 

Features: Finding Tires with Everything You Need (and Nothing You Don’t)

When choosing your next set of tires, consider the features available to you and how you intend to use your vehicle. For a luxury joy ride, you might prefer a set of performance tires. If you go off-roading, you might need a set of all-terrain tires. As mentioned in our pricing considerations, you will also want to avoid paying for features you will not use. For example, North Carolina drivers who have no choice but to hit the road during icy seasons or spend the colder months traveling could benefit from winter tires. On the other hand, if you know you will stay indoors at even the slightest chance of inclement winter weather, you do not need to invest in this feature. 

Chapel Hill Tire, Your Local Tire Shop

If you are due for a new set of tires, you have come to the right place. The experts at Chapel Hill Tire are known for getting customers new tires at affordable prices. Our eight Triangle-area locations—including those in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro—are here for you. Make an appointment with your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location to get your new set of tires today!

The automotive industry often shows its creativity in the small details. There are several examples of hidden car insights, one of which is that of tire wear indicator bars. This modest innovation is embedded in most tire treads to indicate when you are due for a new set of tires. While this detail is one that you may have missed in the past, a closer look can help you stay safe on the road. Here is everything you need to know about tread wear indicator bars. 

What are Tire Wear Visual Indicator Bars?

Designed specifically to help you gauge your tire health, indicator bars are small tread marks that are cut off at the lowest safety point in your tire tread. These bars are often raised to 2/32”, the hazard point in most tires. When your tread aligns with the wear bars, it means you are ready for a new set of tires. 

Why Does Tire Tread Matter? Safety, Inspections, and Efficiency

Tire tread provides the resistance necessary for starting, stopping, and steering properly. It grips the road and keeps you stable during turns and inclement weather. This level of control is essential to the safety of all vehicles on the road. Due to the hazards of worn tires, tread is examined on all NC vehicle safety inspections. Paying attention to your wear indicator bars can help you stay safe and avoid an inspection fail 

No Visual Indicator Bars? No Problem

Tire indicator bars are standard on new tires. However, if you do not see them or your tires are not equipped with indicators, that is no problem—the traditional ways of measuring tire tread still stand. One popular tread measurement is that of the Penny Test. Try inserting a penny into your tread with Lincoln upside down. This lets you see how close the tread is to Lincoln’s head. Once you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it is time to replace your tires. We have a more detailed guide to checking your tire tread depth here! If you remain unsure if your tread is overly worn, bring your vehicle to a tire specialist. A trusted mechanic like Chapel Hill Tire will take a look at your tread for free to let you know if you need a new set of tires. 

New Tires in the Triangle

When you are due for a new set of tires, contact the experts at Chapel Hill Tire for help. As suggested by our name, we specialize in tires, among inspections and other popular vehicle services. You can get a great deal on your new tires when you shop with us. Our mechanics offer warranties and coupons to help you save on our high-quality tire brands. We even offer a Price Beat Guarantee—if you find a lower price on your new tires, we will beat it by 10%. Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves drivers throughout the Triangle with our eight locations across Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Make your appointment with Chapel Hill Tire today to get started!

Has your vehicle become challenging to turn and maneuver? Does it make squeaking sounds when turning? If this sounds like you, it could be time for a power steering fluid flush. Here is everything you need to know about this service, brought to you by the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire.

What is Power Steering Fluid?

Power steering fluid is a hydraulic solution that mobilizes your steering system. Much like the role your brake fluid plays in your slowing and stopping, power steering fluid pressurizes and your steering system, allowing you to control a large, heavy, fast-moving vehicle with little effort. Over time, this fluid becomes worn, dirty, contaminated, and ineffective, which requires that it is cleared out and replaced in a power steering flush. 

Do I Really Need a Power Steering Flush?

When it comes to operating any vehicle, successfully steering is an obvious necessity. This maintenance flush ensures that you will be able to maintain control over your vehicle. Not only does your power steering solution wear out over time, but other components of your steering system—such as o-rings and seals—may also need replacing. If left without this necessary service, your power steering system can encounter larger, more costly issues. This includes corrosion and power-steering pump problems. In a worst-case scenario, your vehicle will become challenging to control, leaving you at a serious safety risk. The necessary power steering flush routine varies based on your vehicle and your driving patterns. If you are wondering whether or not you are in need of this service, consult your owner’s manual or contact a local mechanic for further insight. 

What Does Power Steering Fluid Flush Involve?

During this service, a mechanic will begin by removing all of your old, contaminated steering fluid from your system. You may notice this substance is burnt and discolored when compared to the fresh, clear solution they will replace it with. They will also flush any lingering debris from your system using professional-grade tools and methods. Next, your mechanic will inspect the surrounding components—such as your power steering pump— to make sure that no additional services are needed. They will finish this service by replenishing your power steering system with fresh fluid. 

How Much Does a Power Steering Fluid Flush Cost?

Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we pride ourselves in keeping our everyday prices low for customers. Unlike other mechanics, we also keep our prices transparent to eliminate deception and to take the confusion out of quality car care. Our power steering fluid maintenance flush costs $121.45. This price includes the cost of our high-quality power steering replacement fluid. You can also find a maintenance flush coupon on our site, making this necessary service even more affordable. 

Chapel Hill Tire Power Steering Fluid Flush

All eight of our Chapel Hill Tire mechanic locations specialize in this service, including those in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. You can access quality car care no matter where your schedule takes you when you partner with our trusted mechanic network.  Make an appointment with the experts at Chapel Hill Tire to get started today!

As summer rapidly approaches, you might be eager to hitch your trailer to the back of your vehicle and begin adventuring. However, upgrading to a vehicle without a hitch can leave your plans halted. Thankfully, professional trailer hitch installation options are available to help you get your adventures back on track. Learn more here about trailer hitch services in Chapel Hill. 

What is a Trailer Hitch?

A trailer hitch (also called a tow hitch or a receiver hitch) is an extra part connected to the back of your vehicle. It allows you to attach a trailer to your vehicle and tow a wide range of heavy-to-move items such as boats, lawnmowers, heavy machinery, and more. If your vehicle has the capacity, you can even tow other vehicles using a hitch. These installations are also perfect for bike racks and other unique purposes. 

Can My Car Tow a Trailer?

Before installing a trailer hitch, you will want to ensure that your vehicle is capable of towing your desired items. You might think that the lack of a pre-installed trailer hitch is a sign that your vehicle is unable to tow. However, you will find that even smaller vehicles are often capable of towing 1,000-1,500 lbs. Larger vehicles with plenty of towing power also sometimes come without this added attachment. 

You can find information about your towing capacity in your owner’s manual. If you are still unsure if your car can tow a trailer, speak with your mechanic for further insight. Your mechanic will install a hitch that is compatible with your vehicle’s towing capabilities. This means that it is essential to never exceed your towing limit—as both your vehicle and your hitch will be susceptible to failure. You can also view our trailer hitch installation FAQ page for more information.

Professional Trailer Hitch Installation

Once you are ready for a trailer hitch, a professional will be able to complete this installation quickly and easily. Using professional-grade equipment, an expert will clean any rust and debris off of the mounting frame underneath the back of your vehicle. This allows them to attach the hitch safely and help your trailer stay secure as you tow. They will then attach a compatible trailer hitch to your mounting frame. Finally, an expert will equip your hitch with the necessary receiver, ball mount, trailer ball, and hitch pin. 

Electrical Wiring of Trailer Hitches

Safety is key when it comes to taking advantage of your towing capacity. A trailer will likely block your brake lights and turn signals from view to the drivers behind you. During a professional trailer hitch installation, a technician will complete the wiring necessary to ensure that the brake lights and turn signals on your trailer respond to your vehicle commands. 

Not only can improper wiring lead to a ticket, but it can also pose serious safety risks on the road. This is why it is essential to partner with a reliable and experienced mechanic you can trust. 

Trailer Hitch Installation in Chapel Hill

If you are ready for a new trailer hitch installation, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. The mechanics at all eight of our Triangle-area locations—including Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill—specialize in trailer hitch service. You can make an appointment here online or give our vehicle service experts a call today to get started!

Brakes are perhaps one of the most necessary elements of vehicle safety. However, many customers may find themselves wondering, “Is a brake fluid flush really necessary?” The short answer is yes. Your braking system relies on the hydraulic fluid to amplify your foot’s pressure on the pedal. This is what allows you to stop a heavy, fast-moving vehicle with minimal effort. Your brake fluid requires regular service to maintain this performance. Here is everything you need to know about brake fluid flushes. 

Why Brake Fluid Flushes are Important

Your brakes tend to face three primary problems, which comprehensively lead to necessary brake fluid flushes:

1. The braking process generates heat, which breaks down and wears away at your brake fluid. 
2. This process leaves moisture behind, which can cause your brakes to rust.
3. Particles of debris, rubber, and metal can contaminate the solution over time.

If left unattended, these issues can lead to reduced brake performance and, eventually, brake failure. Here is our guide to the 5 signs you are due for a brake fluid flush.

So what does the process of brake fluid flushing involve?

What Happens During a Brake Fluid Flush?

Brake fluid flushing requires a careful process to ensure proper brake functionality; however, a skilled and experienced mechanic can complete a brake fluid flush quickly and effectively. This process has four major components:

• Draining Hydraulic Fluid: An expert begins this service by removing old, worn, and depleted hydraulic fluid. 
• Clean out Debris: Next, your mechanic will clean out your braking system to ensure that all of the debris is removed.
• Check For Rusted Braking Components: If you wait an extended period of time before getting the brake fluid flush you need, an expert will be unable to clear out the rust and corrosion. Instead, they may need to replace your calipers, wheel cylinders, or any other rusted metal component. 
• Brake Fluid Renewal: This service is finished by filling your system with fresh braking fluid, effectively renewing your braking performance, and protecting your vehicle from brake issues.

When Do I Need a Brake Fluid Change?

Corrosion and rust can cause structural damage to your braking system, leading to costly repairs. Regular brake fluid service can prevent these deeper system issues from occurring. Brake fluid flushes are recommended every 30,000 miles or 2 years, depending on your driving and braking patterns. 

For example, if your daily commute is mostly long stretches of highway, you may be racking up miles quickly without using your brakes heavily. This puts less stress on your system, allowing you to wait for the full 30,000 miles before you need a brake fluid change.

For drivers with shorter, brake-heavy commutes, the 2-year mark may be more appropriate for proper brake protection. This more frequent service also applies to professional drivers, including drivers for Uber and Lyft.

Your vehicle year, make, and model may also affect your brake fluid flush cadence. Consider consulting your owner’s manual or speaking with your local mechanic for further insight.

Brake Fluid Flush in the Triangle

The experts at Chapel Hill Tire are skilled in providing quick, high-quality brake fluid flushes. Our transparent pricing paired with our available coupons help Chapel Hill Tire offer this and other brake services at an affordable price. You can find a Chapel Hill Tire mechanic in one of our n0 Triangle-area locations, including those in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. Make an appointment here online to get your professional brake fluid change today! 

The summer heat presents unique challenges to vehicles in the south. Thankfully, your vehicle has measures in place to keep your engine protected. This important task is largely placed on your engine’s cooling system and the antifreeze that keeps it running. It is essential to keep this coolant fresh with manufacturer-recommended coolant flushes. So how do you know if you need a coolant flush? Here are the top signs of this needed service, brought to you by the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire.

Vehicle Overheating and High Temperature Gauge

The primary role that coolant plays in your vehicle’s functioning is keeping your engine temperatures low. If you find that your temperature gauge is always high and your engine is frequently overheating, chances are that you need a coolant flush. Allowing your engine to overheat can cause serious, costly problems, so it is best to visit a mechanic at the first signs of temperature issues. 

Sweet Maple Syrup Car Smell

One distinct sign of a needed coolant flush is an engine smell that may remind you of pancakes. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is known for its sweet-smelling properties. As your car burns through coolant, it can put off smells that drivers often compare to maple syrup or butterscotch. While the smell may be nice, it is a sign that your engine needs attention as it burns through your antifreeze.

Recommended Maintenance, Signs, and Symptoms

Beyond these two distinct signs that you need a coolant flush, other indicators tend to be more ambiguous, such as unusual engine noises. When you hear an engine noise or notice that something seems astray, it is essential to bring your vehicle in as soon as possible (or have a mechanic come to you). Other considerations to look for include:

• Leaking Fluid – If your antifreeze is leaking, you may notice a blue or orange liquid leaking from under your hood. Without normal coolant levels, your engine will begin to quickly overheat. 
• Seasonal Attention – Coolant issues can happen year-round; however, vehicle overheating is most common in warm months. You should make sure that your car is ready for summer with fresh coolant, oil, and other needed maintenance before your engine faces any risks.
• Maintenance Schedule – When all else fails, check your owner’s manual for guidance. The care routine of your coolant can be impacted by the age, make, and model of your vehicle as well as your driving patterns, former care routines, the climate in your area, and other factors. This makes it essential to comprehensively care for your vehicle. 

If you are still unsure of whether or not you need a coolant flush, bring your vehicle to an expert for insight. A professional mechanic can advise you on whether or not this is the service for you. If you do need a coolant flush, a professional can complete it quickly and affordably. 

What is a Coolant Flush?

Simply adding more antifreeze to your engine might temporarily relieve coolant problems, but they will not solve the source of your issue. This is where a coolant flush can help. An expert will begin by ensuring that your coolant is not leaking. If there is a leak, they will need to first find and repair this issue. Once they confirm that there is not a larger problem with your system, they will remove all of the old, burnt antifreeze. 

Your mechanic will also use professional-grade solutions to eliminate any existing debris, dirt, sludge, rust, and buildup that your system may be holding. A mechanic will then finish the coolant flush by adding fresh antifreeze to your engine along with a conditioner that will keep it protected for longer. This process improves the health and protection of your vehicle, so you will likely notice an immediate boost in engine cooling and performance following this service.

Chapel Hill Tire Coolant Flush

If you need a coolant flush, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. We proudly serve drivers in and around the Triangle with our nine trusted mechanic locations. You can find Chapel Hill Tire mechanics in Apex, Cary, Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill. Our experts are well-versed in the needs of vehicles of every brand, make, and model, including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Audi, BMW, Subaru, Ford, Mitsubishi, and many others. Make an appointment here online or call your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location to get started today!

When it comes to taking care of your car, there is perhaps no component more important to protect than your engine. However, keeping your engine in top shape can require some careful consideration. Here are 4 services that can help you keep your engine running at peak performance. 

Engine Service 1: Regular Oil Changes

Routine oil changes are perhaps the most essential part of keeping your vehicle in top shape. These quick and affordable maintenance visits can prevent costly damage in your engine. This is because your oil provides lubricants to keep every engine component working together without friction. It also offers necessary engine cooling properties. Without adequate oil changes, devastating engine damage can happen quickly. It is important to maintain your oil change schedule to keep your engine in peak condition.

Engine Service 2: Air Filter Replacement

Your engine’s air filter collects debris, dust, and contaminants that would otherwise pose a risk to your engine’s health. These filters need to be changed regularly to remain effective. If your filter becomes too blocked with contaminants, it will prevent air from entering your engine’s combustion chambers. In the best-case scenario, clogged air filters will disrupt your car’s air/fuel mixture, causing low fuel efficiency and preventing a pass on your emissions inspection. In a worst-case scenario, this could become unsafe and cause costly vehicle damage. Thankfully, air filters are quick and affordable to replace, costing just $30 at your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location. 

Engine Service 3: Engine Performance Restoration

Engine Performance Restoration (EPR) is an engine cleaning service designed to improve your engine’s health and efficiency. Using professional-grade cleaning solutions, a mechanic can eliminate the heavy deposits that may be weighing on your engine. These deposits can trap heat and cause your engine to consume extra fuel. By cleaning out your engine, an EPR can create an immediate boost in performance and protect your engine from damage. 

Engine Service 4: Maintenance Flushes 

Your engine is composed of several different systems, each of which requires a unique set of care and attention. Many of these engine components contain unique fluid solutions that become depleted over time. This can cause system failures and create trouble for your engine as a whole. Maintenance flushes are designed to preserve your engine components by keeping them filled with fresh liquid solutions. Popular maintenance flushes include:

 

• Power Steering Flush

• Brake Fluid Flush

• Coolant Flush

• Rear Differential Fluid Service

• Transfer Case Full Synthetic Fluid Service

• Fuel Injection Service

• Transmission Fluid Flush

• 4×4 Driveline Service

• Front Differential Fluid Service

• Manual Transmission Full Synthetic Fluid Service

 

Importance of Proper Engine Care

You might try to push your engine care off as long as possible; however, this may lead to trouble and cause you to miss out on some of the benefits of engine care. Here is a look at the major benefits you can expect from proper engine maintenance:

• Improved driving performance: You can enjoy a smoother ride when you give your engine the care it needs.
• Longer vehicle lifespan: When your engine is well taken care of, it will last longer and increase the life expectancy of your vehicle. 
• Improved retail value: If you think you will trade-in or sell your vehicle at some point, you can get more for your car if your engine works well and has received proper care. 
• Fewer needed repairs: Engine repairs can be expensive and inconvenient. You can prevent these costs and avoid the hassle of repair with preventative engine care.
• More environmentally-friendly: When your engine doesn’t have the care it needs, it may use more gasoline to compensate for issues. Proper care will help you save money and reduce your environmental impact. 

Chapel Hill Tire: Local Engine Services

Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we have the tools, experience, and services you need to keep your engine running at peak performance. With 8 Triangle-area mechanic locations—including Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Carrboro—you can find a Chapel Hill Tire shop no matter where your schedule takes you. If you are worried about driving with a compromised engine, our experts will come to you with our free pick-up/delivery service. Make an appointment here online to get started today!

These unprecedented times can also present unique challenges for your vehicle. The last thing you need right now is preventable car trouble. To avoid car issues after quarantine has passed completely, give your vehicle the attention and care it needs today. Here is everything you need to know about caring for your car in quarantine. 

Stay Out Of The Heat

The intense summer heat can have several different negative effects on your car. These problems can become intensified as your car sits unmoving in the direct sunlight for extended periods. When you know it is going to be a few days before you take your car out again, take measures to protect it from the sun. If you have an outdoor car cover, now is the time to make full use of it. Parking your car in the shade or your garage can also help protect your vehicle from sitting in the heat. 

Maintain Needed Services

There are two ways a mechanic estimates needed services: by mileage and by the length of time between mechanic visits. You might wonder why a car receiving low mileage would need service; however, it is more likely that a dormant car encounters certain service issues than a car in use.

Oil changes, for example, are one of the most commonly needed services. While you may think you can push it off because you are not driving your car often, it is essential that you reconsider. Your engine oil deteriorates rapidly when it is not being used—losing its cooling and lubrication properties more quickly than it does when you are driving your car frequently. Skipping your oil change in quarantine could have you running on ineffective oil. This can spell trouble for your engine and lead to costly repairs. 

Take Your Car Out

One of the most important care routines that you can provide your vehicle while quarantined is frequent drives. Even if you are not commuting daily, you should still aim to take your car out for a drive once each week. The less frequently you drive, the more likely you are to incur one of the issues that threaten dormant cars. 

Problems with Dormant Cars

If you leave your car sitting for too long, here are the potential threats that it faces. Keep your eye out for:

Dead Battery From Quarantine

A dead battery is one of the most common issues for dormant cars, and perhaps one of the easiest to prevent. Your battery recharges while you drive. Leaving it sitting for an extended period of time can cause your battery life to drain. During the season’s heat, your battery will also be fighting corrosion and internal evaporation. It is essential that you take your car for a spin every once in a while and give your battery time to recharge. 

Dormant Cars and Tire Issues

As you may know, tires are made out of rubber. This material can become hard and brittle when left dormant for too long, often referred to as tire dry rot. Dry rot is intensified by the summer heat and direct UV rays. Tires are also used to rotating the distribution of your vehicle’s weight and pressure. When it sits still for too long, you risk tire deflation and damage. 

Problems With Engine Belts and Hoses

Your engine’s belts and hoses are also made of rubber, which could leave them vulnerable to dry rot when left unused. While they are not as much of a risk as your tires, their deterioration could spell big trouble for your vehicle. 

Tailpipe and Engine Inhabitants

Especially during the colder months (though we are hoping COVID-19 concerns pass by then), small critters may begin to seek shelter in your engine or tailpipe. When your vehicle is only driven every once in a while, it can create the perfect environment for critters:

• Your car is usually warm after being driven. Even when you are driving infrequently, it may provide enough warmth to attract animals after usage.
• During infrequent usage, your car may also provide enough dormancy for critters to trust it as a stable environment. This is true during any season. 

This concern is especially prominent for drivers in the more rural parts of the larger Triangle area. Be sure to take a quick look for critters if you are using your car infrequently.  

Unusable Gasoline

While you might not give your gasoline a second thought, leaving it sitting for too long can lead to trouble. Over an extended period of time, sitting gasoline can become degraded. Your gasoline loses its combustibility as it begins to oxidize and certain components start to evaporate. As a general rule, gasoline is good for 3-6 months. Gasoline issues can be prevented by lightly using your car, even if you are no longer commuting daily. If your gasoline has become bad, an expert can drain it out for you. 

Brake Rusting

Depending on how long your vehicle has been sitting and how much rain and humidity it has endured, your brakes may squeal when you start driving it again. This is caused by rust buildup that would have otherwise been prevented by frequently brake movement. Your brakes may be fine, though severe rust will require expert care. If you are worried about driving your car with questionable brakes, contact a mechanic that provides at-home visits, like those at Chapel Hill Tire. 

Chapel Hill Tire Quarantine Car Care

The experts at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you during the COVID-19 quarantine concerns. All eight of our Triangle-area mechanic locations are providing the care your car may need while maintaining the CDC recommendations for safety. We are offering free curbside service and free pickup/delivery to help keep our customers and mechanics protected during this time. Make an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire to get your car the quarantine care it needs today!