4 Automotive Maintenance Flushes You Actually Need

Your vehicle relies on a number of different oils and fluids to keep your systems in a healthy condition. Though these fluids all collect debris over time, which is removed by a to your system. Here are 4 automotive flushes that you need to keep your vehicle in the best condition possible.

Coolant Flush | Car AC Help

As the temperatures begin to rise, you will want to ensure that your vehicle’s AC is in top condition. Your vehicle’s coolant is what keeps your air conditioning cold in the spring and summer seasons. If your air conditioning is not working, this might be a sign that you are in need of a coolant flush.

A coolant flush gets rid of the debris has built up in your coolant system, which might also prevent it from carrying heat away from your engine. Beyond just the inconvenience of an ineffective air conditioner, this stress on your engine can cause more costly issues down the road. In this sense, a coolant flush works as an engine flush as well. A coolant flush will clean out the system that feeds your air conditioner, helping it run efficiently and keep your engine protected.

Power Steering Flush | Why isn’t my Steering Wheel Working?

Your vehicle’s power steering system is what keeps you in control while on the road. However, this hydraulic fluid wears away over time and can create issues for your system. If there are steering difficulties with your vehicle, you might need a power steering flush. It is important that you do not wait long before attending to your power steering system, as this can be a severe safety liability while on the road. Resistance in steering and squeaking noises when turning your wheel are signs that you might be in need of a coolant flush.

Brake Fluid Flush | Brake Service Near Me

In addition to your brake pads, your brake fluid also may need regular maintenance to keep your brake system in working condition. If your brakes are delaying your quick and complete stop, a brake fluid flush may be the answer.

A brake fluid flush involves removing buildup in your fluid as well as completely replacing the old, ineffective fluid. Responsive brakes are important for preventing accidents and keeping you safe while on the go, so it is essential that you get your brake fluid attended to as quickly as possible when a delay or issue arises.

Transmission Fluid Flush

High-quality transmission fluid is essential to your vehicle’s health and protection. When your transmission does not have what it needs to function properly, it can begin to drain your battery and cause vehicle starting issues. If you are experiencing battery problems, your battery might not be to blame at all. This could be your transmission grappling with insufficient, low-quality fluid.

If there is build up in your transmission fluid, your transmission system might also begin to deteriorate in health, which can be extremely costly to repair. It is estimated that the average transmission costs between $4,000 and $8,000 to replace. A transmission fluid flush can keep your transmission system in ideal working order and prevent future, more costly issues from arising.

Automotive Repair in the NC Triangle

If you are in need of a flush for your vehicle, contact the experts at Chapel Hill Tire. You can even find a coupon to help you out with your first vehicle service. Bring your vehicle by the professionals at Chapel Hill Tire today!

5 Things to Check Before Your Next North Carolina State Inspection

The North Carolina state inspection process can be difficult, but having a better idea of what might be preventing your pass can be helpful. While the specifics of an inspection vary based on the county you are in (view our full inspection guide here), these are the 5 main reasons that vehicles fail NC State inspections and how to resolve these issues.

Problem 1: Tire Tread

It is no surprise that your vehicle needs to be in a safe working order to pass an inspection. One key component of this safety is your tires. When your tire tread is worn, you will not have the traction against the road to safely handle, slow, and stop your vehicle. Your tread must be at least 2/32” thick. Before your inspection, you can check your tread using the tire wear indicator bars, which mark this minimum tread length for you.  

Solution: Tire Replacement

The only way to address unsafe tire tread is with tire replacements. While new tires are an investment, they will be well worth it for the safety they bring. You may be able to find deals and coupons to help you save money on this service. Buying tires online can help you view all of your options and find the right tires for your vehicle and your budget. Our guide to the online Tire Finder Tool can help break down this process for you. 

Problem 2: Faulty Turn Signals

It is required by traffic laws that you use a turn signal to indicate lane changes, turns, and other directional movements while on the road. However, your signaling will be rendered ineffective if there is a defect with this feature of your vehicle. This is why state inspections require that service experts make sure your turn signals are in perfect working condition.

Solution: Light Bulb Change

A faulty turn signal is often the result of a burnt-out light bulb, which makes for an easy and affordable repair. Remember, you have turn signaling lights in both the front and the back of your vehicle. During your inspection, the vehicle service expert will let you know which of your signal lights are not working. Then, you can have your turn signal bulb replaced on the spot with this expert help on hand. Otherwise, you can use your user’s manual to read about this repair and complete the exchange on your own. This will both restore these safety features in your vehicle and help you ensure you pass your inspection.

Problem 3: Headlights

Making sure your headlights are in working order is another essential element to passing an NC State vehicle inspection. Headlights are a key safety feature that is essential for driving at night and during various weather conditions. Not only is it unsafe to drive with headlight issues, but it is also against the law. This is why headlights are a key checkpoint in any NC vehicle inspection.

Solution: Headlight Service

It is likely that you know if your headlights will prevent you from passing your NC State inspection before even visiting a shop. Unlike your turn signal lights, which you might not be able to see are defective, your headlights are a constant, visible installment in your vehicle. Their effectiveness is directly correlated with your ability to drive with ease. With this in mind, it is essential that you repair any issues with your headlights as soon as they arise (not just when you need to pass your next inspection). Proper headlight service will help keep you and others safe while on the road with the added benefit of helping you pass your next North Carolina vehicle inspection.

Problem 4: Brakes

Brakes are an important part of any vehicle inspection. While you might forget to keep an eye on your braking system, your yearly inspection ensures that it is well maintained. This includes your parking brake, foot brake, and pretty much anything else that might prevent you from successfully bringing your vehicle to a safe and timely stop. Damaged brake lights can also be a traffic safety hazard, which is why these can prevent you from passing your inspection.

Solution: Brake Maintenance

Brake maintenance can involve a number of services that will get your brakes in prime working order. You might need new brake pads, parking brake service, or other repairs. Consult an expert to determine what is needed to get your brakes in prime condition and how to most affordably achieve these results.

Problem 5: Other Inspection Issues

There are plenty of other holdups that can prevent you from passing your inspection based on the county you live in. For example, certain NC counties have emissions restrictions that can cause vehicles to fail if they is not meeting environmentally-friendly requirements. Issues with your windshield wipers might also raise concerns for inspection. Additionally, there are tinted window inspection criteria in certain counties that your vehicle will have to accommodate. Because of this lack in consistency, it can be difficult to determine exactly what you need to do to pass inspection. Thankfully, there are plenty of knowledgeable experts ready to help you along your way.

Solution: Expert Insight

For the insight you are looking for on whether or not your vehicle will pass NC Inspection standards, consult a professional. This specialist will be able to diagnose any issues that stand between you and a successful inspection and repair these issues before you head to the DMV.

If you are seeking help or advice for your next inspection in NC, call Chapel Hill Tire. We have locations in Apex, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Carrboro to help get you on your way. Bring your vehicle in for your next North Carolina car inspection today!

Touchless Tire Changing at Chapel Hill Tire

Step into the future of automotive service with Hunter’s new Auto34S tire changing machine at Chapel Hill Tires. This advanced machine makes quick and precise tire service easier than ever. Learn more here about the Hunter tire machine and how it will elevate your service experience when you visit Chapel Hill Tire.

Safe and Careful Tire Removal

Expert attention during a tire change is important for protecting your rims, protecting your vehicle, and ensuring an overall excellent service experience. The Hunter Tire Machine removes tires with quick and careful precision. Unlike other tire changing machines or self-service care, you do not face the risk of damaging your wheels or rims during a tire change. This is made possible by the machine’s advanced TPMS location sensors, leverless nature, and polymer tools.

• Hunter’s TPMS, or Tire Pressure Monitoring System, will calculate and distribute the ideal tire pressure for your tires. This eliminates the risk of harmfully overfilling your tires.
• The Auto34 leverless nature of Hunter’s Auto34S tire changer machine means that you do not run the risk of denting or scratching your rims during a tire change.
• Polymer tools are scratch-resistant, making the Hunter tire machine ideal for protecting your rims.

This higher standard in excellence is why Hunter’s Auto34S tire changer machine has been recognized by Motor Magazine’s Top 20 Tools Awards, the PTEN Innovation Award, and the PTEN Innovation People’s Choice Award.

Touchless Tire Changing

Quickly and carefully changing your tires has never been easier! The Hunter tire machine features a fully automated tire changing process, which is what helps this service stand out from the rest. Touchless tire changing means a reduced risk for technicians and for your rims. While Hunter’s Auto34S tire changer machine takes care of the automated work, your technician can prepare different elements of your tire change process, which further reduces your waiting time.

Quick Vehicle Service in NC | Fast Tire Changing

The Hunter Tire Machine means less waiting for new tires when you visit Chapel Hill Tire. It is no question that the process of changing tires can easily become a lengthy one. To quickly get you in and out, the Hunter tire machine takes a faster and more accurate approach; this highly advanced machine works quickly to assess your tire system and carefully change out your tires. The automated nature of the machine means less time waiting during your service appointment and more time for doing what is most important to you.

With Hunter’s Auto34S tire changer machine, the time it takes to change a tire is reduced by an average of 15% from that of even the most skilled professionals. Unlike non-automated alternatives, the machine does not take a longer amount of time to change different types of tires, which makes Hunter’s tire machine experience a heightened time saver for drivers with non-traditional tires. We want nothing but the best for our clients, which is why we partner with only the most advanced automotive brands.

The Process | Hunter Touchless Tire Changing Process

Getting new tires is easy with the Hunter Tire Machine. When using Hunter’s Auto34S Tire Changer Machine, technicians select the clamp size, set TPMS sensor and rim diameter, use press arms (as needed), and set the tire’s inflation pressure. The experts simply place your tire onto the machine, unload your old tire, and reload your new tire. The Hunter tire machine does the rest! This is a simple four-step process compared to the 9-step traditional alternative. This means less room for error and results in a quick and accurate tire changing process.

Tire Service Raleigh | Tire Service Near Me

Get your next vehicle service at Chapel Hill Tire to experience all of the benefits of Hunter’s new Auto34S tire changer machine today! You will find Chapel Hill Tire services in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Carrboro, and Durham today! Check out our coupons to score a deal on your next tire service today!

How Often do I Need to Get an Oil Change?

Oil changes are of the most regular maintenance requirements for most vehicles. While these maintenance visits might seem insignificant in size, the consequences of ignoring a needed oil change can be devastating to your vehicle’s health and your wallet.  Here are some tips on determining how often you need an oil change.

The Clockwork of Oil Changes

On average, vehicles are estimated to need an oil change every 3,000 miles or every six months. This can vary based on your driving habits, your driving frequency, the age of your vehicle, and the quality of the oil you use. If you drive a newer vehicle, you might be able to safely wait a little longer between changes. It is best to consult with your car care experts if you are unsure if the 3,000 miles/six-month system works with you and your vehicle. While it is not an exact science, this system can help you keep a rough estimate of when you are due for another oil change.

Vehicle Notification System

The most obvious indicator that it is time to get your oil changed is the warning light on your dashboard that may signal when you are running low. Look at your owner’s manual to see the different ways that your oil light may notify you of the needed vehicle service. In certain vehicles, a flashing oil light means that you only need an oil change while a steady light means that you are due for an oil and filter change. Keep in mind that it can be risky to depend on these systems because they are not error-proof. Assuming that your oil change light is accurate, waiting for it to come on will also take away some of the flexibility that comes with scheduling your oil change ahead of time. However,  if you are forgetful when it comes to your oil changes, the notification system installed in your vehicle can be a great backup indicator of when you are due for oil maintenance.

Self-Checking Oil Composition

You can also check the status of your oil on your own by opening under your hood and pulling out the oil dipstick in your engine. If you are unfamiliar with your engine system, consult your owner’s manual for the basics here. Before reading the dipstick, you need to wipe it off to get rid of residual oil before reinserting it and pulling it back out; make sure that you fully reinsert the clean dipstick to accurately gauge your oil levels. This will give you a clear line of where your oil is reaching in your engine’s system. If the dipstick indicates that your levels are low, this means it is time for an oil change.

Vehicle Function

Oil works in your vehicle by keeping the various parts of your engine’s system working together without resistance or friction. If your engine is not performing well or if it is making strange noises, this could be a sign that essential parts of your vehicle’s system are not properly oiled. If your vehicle function is off, it is important to check your vehicle’s oil levels and composition, as this might be your vehicle letting you know that it is time for an oil change. Bring your vehicle in for diagnostics at the first sign of an issue for help detecting the source of your car troubles.

Where to Get an Oil Change | Oil Change in the Triangle

To keep your vehicle in good health, you should be completing regular oil changes or having them completed for you by a professional. If you see a professional for your vehicle care, a seasoned expert will provide you with a sticker indicating when you should next get your oil changed based on the date or the mileage your vehicle reaches. Expert care can save you the time and trouble of changing your oil, taking the pain out of these needed services.

Chapel Hill Tire has 10 locations in the Triangle for drivers in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Carrboro. Find a location near you for an affordable oil change today!

How to Take Care of Your Car Battery

There are plenty of factors that affect how long the battery lasts in your vehicle, including your driving frequency, your driving practices, the age of your vehicle, and more. Frequent battery issues and replacements can cost you both time and money; luckily, there are ways to save money on your car battery replacements. Here are some tips on keeping your vehicle’s battery in its best possible condition, brought to you by a Chapel Hill mechanic expert.

Watch your Battery Cable Terminal Ends

There are several systems connected directly to your battery that can contribute to your overall battery health. If one of these systems is distressed or dysfunctioning, they can drain your battery, prevent a charged battery from working, and lead to a shortened overall battery life. This can include faulty battery cable terminal ends, a glitch in your starting system, and more. Considering battery health in a more comprehensive light can help you keep your battery in prime condition. In this case, service to your battery cable’s terminal ends is an affordable alternative to a full battery replacement.

Corrosion Services

Over time, your battery terminals can build up corrosion, which can drain the life out of its charge, prevent it from accepting jump starts, and limit the energy it retains. If your battery is corroded, an experienced service technician can address and resolve your corrosion issues. This also offers a more affordable and economical vehicle service than an unneeded full battery replacement. If you notice your vehicle’s battery declining in health, consult a professional to see if corrosion services can resolve your battery issues.

Provide Levels of Driving Consistency

The average car battery lasts between 5-7 years, though yours could last more or less time depending on your driving frequency. When you leave your car sitting for extended periods of time, the battery often loses its charge. This is because your battery naturally recharges as you drive. If you alternate between two different vehicles, make sure that they are both being driven periodically. Additionally, if you leave town for an extended period of town, see if you can get someone you trust to take your vehicle for a spin while you are gone. If you notice a change in your vehicle’s starting process over time or if you notice that your vehicle is having difficulty starting, these might be signs that your battery is declining in health. If this is the case, this might be an indicator that you are not driving your vehicle enough for it to fully recharge during its use.

Watch the Season

Extreme weather conditions can take a toll on your vehicle, including the health of your battery. Colder temperatures can cause your battery to become less effective in retaining its charge, and freezing temperatures and below can cause your battery to lose roughly half of its charge. Extreme heat also can cause your battery to overheat, which strains your battery and shortens its lifespan.

When the weather is reaching an extreme heating or cooling season, it is best to keep an eye on your battery. You might even consider protecting it when the weather is at its most threatening conditions to keep it in top condition. This might involve covering your battery or, for the at-home experts, disconnecting it and bringing it inside for short periods of extreme weather, such as during blizzards or heat waves. If these are outside of your personal comfort zone, ask your automotive professionals for advice and leave yourself enough time to address starting concerns if your battery develops issues.

Listen to the Experts | Affordable Battery Replacements

When you visit an automotive expert, they should check your battery and let you know if it is almost due for a change and let you know how you could be better taking care of your vehicle’s battery. Experts will also let you know if there is another element of your vehicle’s system affecting your battery life, such as a faulty alternator.

The professionals at Chapel Hill Tire are well attuned to the needs of every battery. If you are in need of a replacement, our experts can save you hundreds of dollars compared to the dealership pricing. With 7 Triangle-area car service locations, our experts can help you no matter where you find your battery troubles occurring. If you need a new battery in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, or Raleigh make an appointment with the experts at Chapel Hill Tire today!

Road Force Tire Balancing in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham

If the road conditions in your area have you experiencing turbulence during every trip, you might want to consider road force tire balancing. This service counteracts the effects of rocky roads and sensitive vehicles to give you a steadier and safer ride. Here is everything you need to know about road force tire balancing.

What is Road Force Tire Balancing?

Road force tire balancing is an advanced service for inspecting and regulating your vehicle’s tires and rims to achieve a smoother drive. The ultimate goal of road force tire balancing is to adjust the arrangement of each tire for the perfect and individualized tire unit alignment.

How Does the Road Force Balancing Process Work?

The road force balancing process first involves testing your tires and your rims for variations in height using a device that simulates the weight of your vehicle. This device takes precise data from your tires and uploads it into a computer program that gives vehicle service technicians insight into the composition of your tires. Vehicle service professionals then take this information to align the high and low points of your tires and your rims for optimal road force balancing. This effectively minimizes the vibrations you experience while on the road, providing you with a smooth and comfortable ride.

When Do You Need Road Force Balance?

• Expensive rims: If you have expensive rims that you want to protect, getting your tires road force balanced can help you preserve your investment by keeping your rims from getting scratched or damaged. This protection is provided by the elimination of tire vulnerabilities during the road force balancing process.
• Small tires: If your tires are small they likely will not provide a substantial barrier between the inside of your vehicle and the road’s turbulence. If your tires do not have significant amounts of tread, you can be easily affected by small issues with the road or with your tires. This makes it especially important to minimize both road and vehicle disruptions by ensuring that your tires are properly balanced.
• Uncomfortable ride: If you have passengers who are sensitive to the subtle movements of your vehicle or if you would just prefer a smoother ride, road force balancing may be the solution you are looking for. This service will reduce the disruptions and vibrations you feel inside your car so that you can ride more comfortably.
• Unsafe Disruptions: Ultimately, there is nothing more important to your driving experience than your safety. If your steering wheel is vibrating uncontrollably or your vehicle feels unstable, your safety on the road could quickly become compromised. Road force tire balancing can help you regain control. This service can also help you avoid needing additional and more expensive repairs down the road.

What is Match Mounting?

One key concept central to road force balancing is the process of match mounting. Match mounting is the final step in the road force balancing process, one that helps distinguish it from other tire services. This is when your vehicle service technician synthesizes the data provided by the road force balancer to determine where the high and low points of your tires are located. When they align the variations in height across your tires and rims, they are matching the unbalanced points of your tires. This process—in addition to the advanced data-gathering methods—is what helps road force balancing stand out from other tire balancing services.

Where to Get Road Force Tire Balance

If you need road force balancing services for your vehicle, visit Chapel Hill Tire. Our experts will give you a free consultation to help determine if road force balancing is right for you. With locations in Chapel Hill, Durham, Carrboro, and Raleigh, our service professionals are here for you; visit the experts at Chapel Hill Tire today!

4 Ways to Know it is Time to Change your Brake Pads

Brake health is essential to an overall safe driving experience. While there is a lot that goes into maintaining a healthy brake system, consistent maintenance is almost entirely isolated to the vehicle’s brake pads, so how do you know when it is time to change your car’s brake pads?

Time of the Year

Depending on the vehicle you drive and the climate you live in, your brake pads may be under more stress during certain times of the year. The summer season can bring intense heat, which can strain your braking system as a whole. Your brake pads work by engaging friction, which naturally creates heat. Hot weather can enhance this heat friction, which leads to increased stress on your brake pads and your braking system as a whole. The summer season also means higher volumes of traffic, which may cause you to brake more regularly and intensely. It is important that you ensure your braking system is prepared for the strain of summer, so at the first signs of intense heat in your area might be a good indicator that it is time to have your brake pads inspected.

Likewise, intense wintery weather can also affect your vehicle’s brake function. Cold weather, snow, and ice on roads can interrupt the process of braking by increasing the friction necessary for a safe and responsive stop. This lag is heightened if your brake pads are worn down or ineffective. If there is wintery weather in your area or storm season approaching, you might consider getting your brake pads checked by a professional. It is better to be safe than to run into an issue where you, your family, and your safety is compromised. The change of season to those with intense weather patterns, like summer and winter, are the most important times to get your brake pads inspected.

Pay Attention to Your Vehicle

Nobody knows your vehicle better than you do, which means that you will likely notice if your vehicle is not braking as it should. When the material on your brake pads wears away, your vehicle can take longer to slow down and to stop, which can make it difficult to prevent accidents in hazardous driving situations. Additionally, if your vehicle is making loud metallic or grinding noises when you brake, this means that your brake pads are not acting alone; it is likely that your rotor is coming in contact with the caliper because your brake pads are worn down too far. It is important to get this issue repaired before it develops into something more serious or causes you to get into an accident. If you notice that your vehicle’s braking system is showing signs of deterioration, this is a key indicator that it is time to get your brake pads replaced.

Self Checking Your Brake Pads

Brake pads are layered with friction materials that apply pressure to your vehicle’s spinning rotor to help you slow and stop your vehicle. Over time, this friction material wears away, affecting their overall braking effectivity. When you brake pads reach low levels of friction material, you know that it is time for a change in brake pads. If you are comfortable with examining these materials on your own, you can check your brake pad composition at home to determine when it is time for a brake pad change. Look to the rotor of your tires, which is where the brake pads live in your car. Check to see how much friction material remains on your existing brake pads. If it is close to or beneath ¼ of an inch, you know that it is time for a brake pad change. If you do not feel comfortable locating or checking these brake pads on your own, it is best to leave the inspection and the brake pad change to the professionals.

Listen to the Experts

The best way to tell when you need new brake pads is to listen to what your professional automotive service experts say. With routine vehicle checkups, you will always know that your brake pads are in prime condition for keeping you safe while on the road. This can also help you prevent more costly damages that may result from faulty brakes. With expert input and care, you can get your brakes repaired quickly and affordably to keep you safe while on the road.

Brake Pad Service in Chapel Hill

If you are seeking brake pad service in the North Carolina Triangle, Chapel Hill Tire has 7 locations between Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro with experts ready to help!  Let our service professionals inspect and replace your brake pads today!

How Do I Choose An Auto Repair Center?

Everyone needs a trusted doctor, accountant, and mechanic. We’ll leave the medical and tax decisions up to you.

But we are uniquely qualified to help you choose a service center. You’ve probably read online reviews. You’ve probably asked friends and family for recommendations. There’s a barrage of advertising, but nobody has time to sort through marketing claims.

We’ve come up with a step-by-step guide for choosing an automotive service center.

1. Qualifications and Experience

Modern cars are sophisticated traveling computers. Today’s technicians serve car computer systems along with the other systems. They use an iPad as often as a wrench. Computing tech advances rapidly.

What type of certifications should I look for?

The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification is an industry-standard. The ASE program is organized by vehicle type and automotive systems. One of the advanced certifications under this training protocol is the Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist (L3). Repair centers that employ techs with the hybrid certification are ahead of the game.

When technicians have completed the multi-phase ASE course, they are eligible for the ASE Masters Certification. Technicians must re-certify every five years.

2. Specialized Shops or Full-Service?

Some people go to the quick lube for routine oil changes. And brakes-only shops for brake repairs. A shop with a narrow focus may offer a low price. And they may perform quality repairs in their specialty. If you fix transmissions all day—you’re probably going to get good at it. If you aren’t interested in developing a long-term relationship with a full-service shop, this can be a good choice. Make sure you do your research, though. I would be wary of an express lube that just opened last week with a month-to-month lease. Also, beware of the upsell. Corporate chain shops are notorious for pushing extra services that you may not need.

3. Dealership or Independent?

Some drivers swear by their dealer for service and maintenance. They can expect quality service from factory-trained mechanics. A couple of things to keep in mind: dealerships have massive overhead costs. In most cases, you will pay more for repairs. At the dealer, you interact with a service advisor. You probably can’t talk to the technician who actually works on your car.

When it comes to amenities, dealerships score high. Most offer shuttle services, a clean waiting area, and fresh coffee. Some elite independent shops have met and matched dealership amenities. So don’t opt for the dealer without looking around. You could save a lot of money.

4. Convenience/Amenities

Auto service centers can’t compete anymore with a sparse waiting area and instant coffee. But look beyond the waiting room. What if you never had to set foot in it—regardless of whether it has comfy chairs and cable TV? A few elite shops now have a valet service. They pick your car up at your home. When the shop valet arrives, they leave a courtesy car for you to use. Does your shop do that?

5. Pricing

If you don’t know the expected price for the service you need, do some research. Some service centers show their prices on their website. Keep in mind that these are average figures. The price can go up from the base estimate.

You can call a couple of shops to get an idea of the average rate. Once you have a ballpark figure, don’t jump at the lowest bid. Make sure they have technicians who can perform quality work.

Price transparency is an area where you can weed out the shady shops. If you are quoted a price that’s higher than standard, make sure they can explain exactly why. Does your car need a special part? If they tell you it’s because the muffler bearings and crank seals are located in the radiator, run.

Price beat guarantees

Some service centers will beat bids from shops in the area. If you like to get the lowest prices on your new tires, a price beat guarantee can help you know that you are getting the best prices on new tires.

6. Service Warranties

This is where a top-tier service center can really shine. Shops that offer a service warranty stand behind their work. Their goal is to acquire a customer for life. If you’ve been burned by an unscrupulous shop, look for a good service warranty. Quality service centers can restore your trust. What’s that worth?

7. Reputation

Reputation is earned over time. Service centers with an impeccable reputation deserve consideration. How long as the shop been in business? Do they support local organizations? Are they eco-responsible? A company that has been around for decades is doing something right. They are invested in the community. They consistently meet high standards of professionalism. Online reviews can reveal a lot—good and bad.

How Do I Choose An Auto Repair Center?

Your car may be your most expensive investment after your house. It pays to do your homework. If you have any questions about Chapel Hill Tire, we look forward to answering them. Contact our experts by phone or schedule an appointment online. As always, thanks for visiting our blog.

How do I check my tire tread?

Tire tread has the capacity to affect your vehicle’s safety and performance while on the go. While you might not think about your tire tread every time you drive, it is important to check in every once in a while to ensure that your tires are in good working order. Ready to talk about tire tread depth? Let’s dive in.

What is Tire Tread Depth?

The tread depth of the tire is a vertical measurement between the top of the tread and the lowest groove. In the U.S., tire tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. When tires are brand new, they have tread depths from 10/32 to 11/32.

What is a Tread Wear Indicator?

In the United States, tires are required by law to have easily recognizable tread wear indicators. As the tire tread wears down, it eventually becomes level with the tread wear indicator. At this point, the tire should be replaced. It has too little tread left to provide traction. If safety weren’t persuasive enough, keep in mind that it is also illegal to drive with bald tires.

When is Tread Depth Too Low?

The minimum legal limit is 2/32 of an inch. This doesn’t mean that tires are perfectly safe if they have 3/32 left of tread. This is simply the limit at which you won’t pass your state safety inspection. Your tires become incrementally less safe as the tread wears down.

What Does Tread Depth Affect?

When it comes to safety, your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road. Sufficient tire tread depth is necessary for safe turning and braking.

Low tire tread depth can spell disaster for your drive, including:

• Reduced stopping distance
• Less traction in snowy or icy conditions
• Increased risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions
• Increased risk of a tire blowout
• Reduced acceleration power
• Decreased fuel efficiency

If you live in an area where it rains or snows frequently, consider replacing tires when they reach 4/32 of an inch. With worn tires, you are at risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. This is when the tire can’t channel the water through the grooves. The car rides along the top of the water instead of staying in contact with the asphalt. As such, the tires can’t respond to the steering system. If you have experienced it, you know how terrifying it can be. In icy or snowy conditions, low tread depth makes it harder to stop. You can also fishtail when accelerating or slide sideways when turning.

There are special considerations for driving in hot weather as well. If you are heading into summer and your tires are near the end of their lifespan, be aware that they wear down faster on hot roads.

How Do I Check My Tire Tread?

Easy peasy. All you need to check your tire tread depth is a penny. Insert the penny with Abraham Lincoln’s head upside down. If the top of Abe’s head is showing, it’s time for new tires. Tamara shows you how to do it in this video.

Be thorough when you measure your tread depth. Insert the penny in several places around the tire. It’s not uncommon to have uneven tread wear. Measuring in several places will compensate for this.

Why Does Tire Air Pressure Matter?

Having the proper air pressure in your tires is also critical. Tire air pressure is expressed as a number followed by PSI. This stands for pounds per square inch. 28 PSI means 28 pounds per square inch. It is a measurement of the force inside the tire applied to one square inch. You can check the recommended tire pressure for your car in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. For most vehicles, it is around 32 PSI.

The Problems With Underinflated Tires

If your pressure is too low, your tires will wear out quicker. You will also get poorer gas mileage. This is because it’s harder for your engine to propel a vehicle riding on squishy tires. Low tire air pressure also results in a jerkier ride. Thankfully, there are plenty of easy ways to score a free tire pressure refill.

The Problems With Overinflated Tires

If you discover that your tires are too low, fill to the correct pressure. Don’t assume ‘more is better’. There are problems with overinflation as well. When a tire has too much air, it doesn’t have as much surface area in contact with the pavement. This makes it more difficult to handle. It also increases the risk of a blowout. At high speeds, a blowout can be deadly.

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

Since the early 1970s, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and international counterparts were concerned about the dangers of low air pressure. They were seeking technology that could warn drivers. Evidence was mounting that underinflated tires were a factor in thousands of car accidents each year. At the end of the decade, the NHTSA was also motivated by the energy crisis. Tire air pressure affects fuel economy.

Tire pressure sensing technology became available in the 1980s and was first used by Porsche on the 1987 Porsche 959. In the U.S., TPMS was federally mandated beginning with the 2007 model year.

There are two types of TPMS, indirect and direct. Direct pressure detectors are located on the tire stems. If the sensor detects a significant drop in pressure, it sends an alert to the engine computer—resulting in a dashboard warning light. The indirect type uses the antilock brake system to detect low pressure by measuring wheel speed. Tires revolve at different speeds depending on air pressure. The indirect method is less reliable and has been largely phased out among manufacturers.

Let Chapel Hill Tire Serve Your Tire Needs

At Chapel Hill Tire, we have been providing professional automotive service to North Carolina drivers since 1953. We help our valued clients choose the right tire and protect their tire investment with alignment and wheel balancing services.

Do you need new tires in Cary, Apex, Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or Durham? Our experts can help you find the right tires for your vehicle at the lowest possible price. With our Price Beat Guarantee, you can ensure you are getting the best possible price on new tires in the Triangle. Schedule an appointment at one of our 10 Triangle-area service centers. We look forward to welcoming you to Chapel Hill Tire!

Warning Lights in Your Car: What Do They Mean?

Dashboard warning lights tell you if there’s a problem under the hood. Simple. Right?

Actually it isn’t so simple. Modern cars have so many warning lights it can be kind of confusing. Let’s demystify it.

Your dashboard warning lights are part of your onboard diagnostics system (OBD). Before 1996, auto manufacturers had proprietary diagnostics systems. The codes and lights varied depending on the make and model. In 1996, the industry standardized many of the diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). The 1996 standard is called the OBD-II.

The impetus for this industry move was to comply with vehicle emissions regulations. But it had additional positive effects. For one thing, it made it easier for auto owners and professional service technicians to diagnose engine problems.

When a warning light comes in, it means your car’s diagnostic system has detected a problem. It stores a trouble code in its memory.

Sometimes, the engine will adjust for the problem on its own. For example, if your oxygen sensor detects a problem, it can adjust the air/fuel mixture to solve the issue.

Yellow and Red Dashboard Warning Lights

It’s important for drivers to know the difference between yellow and red.

If a warning light flashes red, pull over to a safe place as soon as you can. It’s not safe to drive the vehicle. If you continue to drive, it could endanger the passengers or expensive engine components.

If a warning light is yellow, take your car in for service ASAP.

The Check Engine Light (CEL)

If the CEL is blinking, the problem is more urgent than if it is glowing steadily. It could mean several different problems. Many of these problems have to do with your emissions system. Hopefully, it is something simple, like a loose gas cap.

Easy Fix: Check Your Gas Cap

If you don’t screw your gas cap on tight, it can trigger the CEL. Check your gas cap and put it on tight if you find that it’s loose. It will take a little while for the light to turn off. If it does, you probably fixed the problem. Count yourself lucky.

Problems That Can Trigger The Check Engine Light

If it’s not the gas cap, there are other possibilities:

• Engine misfire that could overheat the catalytic converter
• Oxygen sensor (regulates the air/fuel mixture)
• Mass airflow sensor
• Spark plugs

What if my CEL is on because my car’s emission system isn’t working?

Some drivers don’t want a repair bill if they are emitting a little extra pollution. (We aren’t here to shame anyone about their carbon footprint.) But this is shortsighted. When your emission system isn’t working, it is not an isolated problem. If ignored, the problem could turn out to be more expensive. It’s always better to investigate at the first sign of trouble.

Service Required Is Not The Same As Check Engine

These two warnings are often confused. The service required alerts the driver that it’s time for scheduled maintenance. It doesn’t indicate that anything is malfunctioning. The Check Engine Light indicates a problem unrelated to scheduled maintenance. Keep in mind, however, that neglecting scheduled maintenance can create problems that could trigger the light.

Let’s talk about other important dashboard warning lights.

Battery

This lights up when the voltage level is below normal. The problem could lie with the battery terminals, alternator belt, or battery itself.

Coolant Temp Warning

This light is triggered by above-normal temperatures. It could mean the coolant is too low, there is a leak in the system, or the fan isn’t working.

Transmission Temperature

This could be related to a coolant issue. Check both your transmission fluid and coolant.

Oil Pressure Warning

Oil pressure is a big deal. Check your oil level ASAP. If you don’t know how to check your oil, consult your owner’s manual or stop by Chapel Hill Tire for an oil change today.

Airbag Fault

A problem with the airbag system requires a professional. This isn’t something you should attempt to fix on your own.

Brake System

This can be triggered by low brake fluid, leaving the parking brake on, or brake malfunction.

Traction Control/ESP Electronic Stability

When the anti-lock brake system detects a problem, this light comes on. Your braking system is not something to ignore.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems have saved countless lives by preventing tire-related accidents. They have also made car maintenance a lot easier. Because of this nifty tool, many young drivers don’t know how to check their tire pressure the old fashioned way. It wasn’t a standard feature on American cars until it was mandated in 2007. Newer systems give you a real-time report of the exact pressure levels. Older systems light up if the pressure in a tire falls below 75% of the recommended level. If your system only tells if when the pressure drops, it’s still a good idea to check your tire pressure regularly. Or let our tire service experts do it for you.

Reduced Power Warning

When the computer detects this, there are numerous possibilities. Your Chapel Hill Tire service technician has professional diagnostic tools to pinpoint the problem.

Security Alert

If the ignition switch is locked, this may flash for a second until it resolves. If you can turn the car on but it stays lit, there may be a problem with the security system.

Warnings For Diesel Vehicles

Glow Plugs

If you borrow your friend’s diesel car or truck, he or she should explain how to start it. Diesel engines have glow plugs that need to warm up before you fire up the engine. To do this, you turn the key partway and wait for the glow plug dashboard light to go off. When it turns off, it is safe to start the engine.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

This indicates a problem with the diesel exhaust particulate filter.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Check the level of the diesel exhaust fluid.

Chapel Hill Tire Diagnostic Service

Did you know that one out of ten vehicles in operation has the CEL on? We hope your vehicle is not one of them. Let us take care of the problem. Visit our locations page to find a service center near you or request an appointment with our experts today!