Category: Resource

A huge part of owning a vehicle is keeping up with its maintenance. If you own a vehicle, regular maintenance requirements like oil changes and tire rotations have probably become routine. However, some issues aren’t so routine but must be taken care of right away. One of those issues is your vehicle’s wheel alignment, which refers to how your tires are angled on your car. During an alignment, your vehicle’s suspension system will be adjusted to better angle your tires and maximize their contact with the road.

When your car is misaligned, you’ll find it harder to control your vehicle, and your tires will experience more wear and tear than normal. Wheel misalignment usually happens over time with standard wear and tear, but passing over bumps or potholes at high speeds or hitting a curb can cause sudden jarring and throw the wheels out of alignment. As you try to prevent the negative effects of a misaligned vehicle, review the top five most common symptoms your car will exhibit when it needs a new wheel alignment.

1. Vehicle Pulls to the Right or Left

When traveling down a road without any curves or bends, does your car try to pull to the right or left? If you’re not sure, pay attention to your hands the next time you’re driving straight. If you use one more than the other to keep the vehicle straight, it’s probably because it’s pulling to that side more often.

Most people believe vehicles should stay straight if you take your hands off the steering wheel, but that’s not true. Each road crowns to some degree which will cause vehicles to pull slightly to one side. However, when the car pulls to the same side on every road, it likely needs an alignment.

2. Steering Wheels Won’t Stay Centered

The steering wheel should stay straight and centered unless you’re making a turn. The easiest way to check for this issue is to look at the emblem in the center of your steering wheel. It’s time to take the car in for maintenance if it’s crooked. Also, if the steering wheel doesn’t naturally return to the center after making a turn, that is usually an indication that the alignment is off.

3. Steering Wheels Feel Loose

When the steering wheel feels wobbly and unstable, poor wheel alignment is usually the cause. You’ll find yourself constantly making small corrections to keep the car straight. Let a mechanic take a look at the issue to determine if a wheel misalignment is the source of the problem.

4. Tire Wear Patterns May Be Abnormal

Are your tires worn in certain spots but not in others? This inconsistent wear is usually a sign that the vehicle’s wheels need to be aligned. For instance, you’ll probably need a wheel alignment if the treads closer to the vehicle are in great shape but the treads on the opposite side are almost bald. Additionally, if the tire treads are worn down too quickly, that may be another indication that the wheel alignment is off.

5. Squealing Tires

When it comes to keeping your wheel aligned with the ground and other wheels on the vehicle, the camber and toe settings come into play. When one of them strays from its position, it creates friction which leads to strange noises.

One of the strange noises coming from the tires will be squealing. When you hear this obnoxious sound, don’t hesitate to take your car to a local mechanic.

Wheel Alignment Near Me in Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh

If you’re looking for a wheel alignment near you in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. With over 11 convenient Triangle locations, Chapel Hill Tire makes it easy and convenient for you to receive wheel alignment services. Once you bring your vehicle in, one of our certified mechanics will identify the exact issue and get you back on the road in no time.

Instead of spending one more second worrying about that shaky steering wheel or loud squeaking coming from the tires, schedule an appointment today for a free alignment inspection. Don’t forget to view our promotions and take advantage of any discounts related to your service. 

So you’re driving to work or out running errands when one of your tires suddenly gives out. No matter how many years you’ve been driving, this is a scary experience for anyone. It’s completely unexpected and unpredictable—or is it? 

Tire blowouts can be caused by numerous factors, including potholes or sharp objects in the road, like nails or shrapnel. But, some blowouts can be prevented with regular car maintenance. Keep reading to find out just what a tire blowout is and the warning signs you should pay attention to in order to keep yourself and other road users safe. 

What Is a Tire Blowout?

When one of the vehicle’s tires bursts out of nowhere, and all of its air rapidly escapes, it’s called a “blowout.” Now, the first thing you may think when this frightening situation occurs is that the tire has too much air. Why? Because we tend to associate something bursting with it being overinflated, but that isn’t always the case. 

Did you know that underinflation is just as dangerous as overinflation? Whether it’s over or under, an improperly inflated tire will blow out under the right circumstances.  

If the tire is underinflated, it will begin to flex and overheat, and during the hotter months – when eggs can be fried on asphalt – a tire without enough air is likely to burst.

As a nation, we use our cars to travel a lot during the summer, transporting our families and luggage to visit relatives and friends. When the tires aren’t inflated correctly, the extra weight and very hot roads are a recipe for disaster.

The 4 Most Common Tire Blowout Warning Signs

Since a blown tire can throw a serious wrench in your plans and even cause an accident, it’s important you know the main warning signs you’re nearing a burst tire. As you try to keep your vehicle and tires in the best shape possible, review the four most common signs you’re at risk of a tire blowout below:

1. Worn Out Tire Tread

When was the last time you checked the treads on your tires? If it’s been a while, you might want to head outside. 

The treads are full of bumps and ridges that allow the tire to get a tight grip on the road. If you regularly travel for long periods or have not changed the tires in a while, your tires are likely worn out. This wear can be risky for drivers as more wear means the tire has a weaker grip on the road and is more likely to burst.

Luckily, there’s something you can do to find out if your treads are the right thickness – it’s called the “old penny trick.” Take a penny and stick it into the tread to measure its depth. If the tread doesn’t rise above President Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a new set of tires.

2. Bubbles in the Tires

Bubbles are one of the most common tire defects. The part of the tire affected by this issue is the sidewall, which is made up of several layers of rubber. Sidewalls are not as thick as treads, and an improperly inflated or overheating tire’s wall layers will begin to separate.

When the separation happens, air can easily seep in between the layers of the sidewall. The area around the bubble is then stretched over the air pocket, causing this section of the wall to become thinner. Without warning, this spot can pop and cause a tire blowout.

3. Vibrating Tires

If the tires are vibrating while driving, this is definitely a sign that something is wrong. Instead of ignoring it, pull over as soon as possible and call a mechanic to ensure you don’t have a serious problem on your hands. The wheel may be misaligned or even bent, which can lead to other damages. You could also have a defective tire that is more likely to burst, and you’ll need to replace it with a new one before you can drive safely.

4. Deflated or Overinflated Tires

As we discussed previously, underinflation and overinflation can cause tire blowouts. If you’ve noticed your tires deflating faster than normal or you haven’t checked your tire’s pressure recently, you could have a deflated or overinflated tire. An overinflated tire is usually due to heat or user error where you accidentally put too much air in your tires. Additionally, under-inflated tires can be due to damaged valves or seals, cold weather, or a lack of regular maintenance and tire pressure checks.

Regardless of the cause, deflated and overinflated tires put you at risk of a burst tire. If you haven’t checked your tire pressure in a while, take your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for New Tires in the Triangle Area

If you’re looking for new tires near you in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Carrboro, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Our team can provide several tire services, including rotating, balancing, and replacing tires. We also carry a large inventory of new tires to ensure we can get your vehicle back on the road quickly. Before you schedule an appointment, check out our coupons to get a discount on our already low prices. Don’t spend more time worrying about your tires, and let us help you confidently travel the roads. 

Schedule an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire today, and take advantage of our top-quality tire services. 

Many students attend a traditional college or university to earn a degree so they can begin a career they are passionate about. However, you’ve probably heard the phrase college isn’t for everyone, and if you’re one of those people who doesn’t think college is right for them, you should know you still have plenty of ways you can find a fulfilling and well-paying career. 

Recently there has been a surge of interest in trade schools as many individuals choose to circumvent the traditional system and look for direct training for the job they wish to pursue. If you have a real love for cars and don’t mind getting your hands dirty fixing things, a career as an automotive mechanic may be right for you. 

As you decide between a trade school or college, learn more about their differences and what you should do to become a certified automotive mechanic.

What’s the Difference Between Trade School and College?

The biggest difference between a trade school and a traditional college is the omission of general education classes and liberal arts courses at a trade school. Instead of making you take classes you’ll likely never use again, trade schools offer practical training in a specific vocation, which is why they’re also called vocational schools.

Trade schools offer mechanic training and job-specific coursework for other skilled trades. Students are known to finish their education in about half the time it takes a college student. For example, a trade school tends to only last one to two years, while an undergraduate degree usually takes four years. Not to mention, trade school costs less, and students are usually guaranteed a job upon graduation.

College degrees do carry a certain amount of prestige, but certification from a trade school shouldn’t be looked at as any less important. The education and skills learned in trade school are just as vital to our functionality as a society.

After all, who’s going to unclog the shower drains, fix the cars that have broken down on the side of the road, or repair the hot water heater? A graduate of a trade school, that’s who.

Is Becoming a Mechanic The Right Move?

Mechanic jobs are physically demanding, and you’ll need adequate training to get into this field. While the job can be demanding, it gives you a chance to work with your hands, not sit behind a desk all year, and earn a higher salary than many college-degree holders (the average salary of automotive mechanics in the United States is close to $49,000 as of July 2023). 

Becoming a mechanic is also a great choice if you love problem-solving. Since tons of things can go wrong with vehicles, mechanics who know how to break down problems and come up with a solution are highly sought after. Of course, those who love working with cars and aren’t interested in attending college are also well-suited for working in the automotive industry.

How Do You Receive Mechanic Training? 

If you think becoming a car mechanic sounds like a rewarding career for you, the process of becoming one is relatively simple. Review the main steps of landing mechanic jobs below:

• Attend a trade school after college: After graduating high school, you’ll need to finish a mechanic training program. Some programs even partner with high schools to find potential trainees. Quite often, you’re allowed to train as a mechanic while working on your high school diploma. Whether you start in high school or after, pick a trade school near you and complete the required courses to prepare yourself for a mechanic job. 
• Gain an entry-level certification: After you finish your trade school coursework, the next step is an entry-level certification. To gain this credential, you’ll need to take a test developed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 
• Land a mechanic internship: After you pass the exam, you’ll need to enter into a mechanic internship or apprenticeship before getting hired. Once you have everything you need to become a certified professional technician, you’ll take another ASE exam.
• Apply for a job and continue your education: After you’ve passed your ASE exam, the company you interned for may offer you a position, but you could also need to apply to other shops. Once you begin working, don’t think your education stops. You’ll need to keep up with the current trends in your field. Technology is constantly making improvements and introducing new features, meaning you’ll need to stay on top of trends in the automotive industry.

Join Our Family of Qualified Mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire

If you want to become a mechanic, you can find a mechanic position for you at Chapel Hill Tire. At Chapel Hill Tire, we support all of our mechanics at our 11 Triangle area locations by paying for unlimited training. We also care about our automotive technicians’ work-life balance, so we stick to a five-day work week, never require night shifts, and offer paid vacations and holidays. Additionally, our industry-leading 401k retirement plan, health care package, and performance bonuses ensure you’re well-compensated for the work you do. 

When you’re ready to see for yourself what working with Chapel Hill Tire is like, apply for a position today.

Do you know what’s worse than sitting in a car on a smoldering summer day with no working air conditioner and the windows rolled up? Sitting in the same car on the same day with an AC unit pushing stinky air throughout the vehicle. Instead of dealing with the bad smell and possibly letting an issue with your car get worse, you can learn more about the most common car AC smells and how to solve them.

The Four Common AC Odors to Watch Out For

There are a number of reasons that the cool air coming out of your car’s vents does not smell fresh or pleasant. Fortunately, the particular smell of the air will often give you an idea of what’s going wrong and how severe the issue is. As you try to figure out what’s wrong with your vehicle, review our guide to the four most common car AC smells below:

1. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Sweet

If your car’s vents are releasing a sweet yet pungent odor, the heater core may be leaking, and engine coolant is seeping into the system’s ducts. If you notice a slimy film forming on the windows, this is probably the case, and the heater core needs to be replaced by a mechanic.

Another cause could be burning engine oil or coolant. These fumes can get sucked up into the unit, causing your AC to churn out an unpleasant odor when you first turn the AC unit on. Take a look under the hood and make sure there are no oil stains or leaks, and go see your mechanic to take care of any necessary repairs.

2. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Must, Mildew, and Mold

When the under-hood air intake has dust and debris build-up, water and moisture get trapped on the unit’s evaporator and in the evaporator case. This trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for nasty mold and germs to grow. If you have trapped moisture, you’ll get a mildewy aroma when you turn on the AC.

One solution is to flush the evaporator case and use an antibacterial spray to clean the ducts. But don’t try to do this at home. Instead, see a professional mechanic so they can apply the commercial-grade chemicals that will get rid of the contaminants.

If there’s no water dripping from your car when the AC is on, it may be indicative of the evaporator case drain hole being clogged. For instance, it’s possible that leaves or some other debris has gotten in there and needs to be removed. Since you don’t want to be breathing in mold while you drive, take your car to a mechanic, and they’ll check for a clog and remove it for you.

3. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Chemicals and Mold

A strong chemical odor that also smells a little moldy is usually a sign that refrigerant is leaking from the AC evaporator. Listen for the blower fan, and if you can hear it running strong, but there’s little to no air coming out of the vents, your car’s refrigerant has probably leaked onto the evaporator fins. Besides making your car smell like chemicals, the leakage will stop the air from efficiently flowing through the vehicle. Take your car in and explain the issue to your mechanic so they can repair the AC.

4. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Vinegar

There can be a few reasons the air from the AC system smells like vinegar. It could be as simple as mold or a much bigger problem. Battery acid may have leaked, adding this sulfuric smell to the air. Or, it could have to do with ozone emissions. Whatever the reason, you’ll need to take your car to your local mechanic to solve the issue.

Come To Chapel Hill Tire for Car AC Service in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the Surrounding Areas

If you live in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Carrboro, or Chapel Hill, the team at Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Whether it’s a cabin air filter replacement or a new heater core, we’re ready to serve you. Our vehicle air conditioning services can help you fix everything from poor performance and warm air to bad smells and strange smells. Before you come in, be sure to check our service coupons for a discount on our affordable services. So, don’t spend any more time getting hot and sticky in that car; schedule a service appointment with Chapel Hill Tire to get your AC smelling at its best again.

Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) Standards tell you how well your tires perform in various situations, like wet conditions or high speeds. While UTQG rating won’t always tell you all the information you may want to know about a tire, it can give you some insights into a tire’s performance in different conditions. When you understand what UTQG ratings are and why they matter, you can ensure your vehicle always has high-quality tires. 

What Are UTQG Ratings?

UTQG ratings refer to letter and number grades that tell you a tire’s treadwear, temperature resistance, and traction in wet conditions. The vehicle’s treadwear will have a number grade, while traction and temperature have letter grades. In the United States, UTQG ratings are required for passenger tires but not deep-tread light truck tires, run-flats, and winter tires.

 Where Do I Find UTQG Ratings?

If you’re interested in reviewing the UTQG ratings on your vehicle’s tires or want to check the UTQG ratings for new tires, they should be located on a tire’s sidewall. On the sidewall, you should see the letter and number grades for your tires. 

Why Are UTQG Ratings Important?

Since UTQG ratings tell you about your tires’ traction, treadwear, and heat resistance, they can give you crucial information about how well your tires will perform and how long they’ll last. Learn more about the top three reasons UTQG ratings are important below:

1. UTQG Ratings Tell You How Well Your Tires Perform in Wet Conditions

A tire’s UTQG traction grade refers to how well the tire retains its grip on a wet surface. As a result, it shows how effective a tire is at stopping in wet conditions. The traction grades come in four ratings: AA, A, B, and C. 

As you might expect, AA means it has the highest level of grip on wet surfaces, while C means the tire has the least grip. The vast majority of tires have an A rating, and very few have a C rating, as those with a C rating are typically used for racing rather than everyday use. Generally, A-rated tires tend to be the right option for most drivers, but if you need ultra-high-performance tires, those with a AA grade are the best choice.

You’ll also want to note that traction ratings don’t evaluate the tire’s grip in dry conditions. It also doesn’t evaluate a tire’s hydroplaning resistance or how well it corners. Essentially, the tire’s traction grade will only tell you how well a tire stops in wet conditions, with A being effective enough for most drivers.

2. UTQG Ratings Let You Know How Fast Your Tire Will Last Compared to Other Tires

Over time, a tire’s tread (the rubber part of your tire that touches the road) will wear down, making your tires more vulnerable to punctures. If you let your tire’s tread wear down too much, your tires won’t have enough traction, and you could lose control of your vehicle. You can often get a general sense of how long your tires will take to wear down to unsafe levels by checking their UTQG rating.

While the UTQG ratings that relate to temperature and traction have a letter grade, the treadwear rating has a number grade. While some believe the treadwear rating refers to a mileage projection, it actually refers to how well a tire compares to a reference tire. If the tire is expected to last as long as the reference tire, it will have a UTQG treadwear grade of 100. When the tire is expected to last twice as long, it will receive a grade of 200. 

Most tires are in the 200 to 400 treadwear range, but you can find some above 600, meaning they’re expected to last at least six times longer than the reference tire. Since treadwear ratings can be manipulated by manufacturers, they’re best used to compare treadwear for tires from the same manufacturer instead of competing brands.

3. UTQG Ratings Give You Information About Your Tire’s Heat Resistance

Whether you’re cruising down the highway or driving around your neighborhood, your tires will generate heat. A tire’s UQTG temperature grade refers to how much heat the tire will dissipate, with the result letting you know how well your tire resists heat at high speeds. The three temperature grades are A, B, and C, with all passenger tires having to earn at least a C grade. Grades lower than C will put your tires at risk of overheating while you drive at higher speeds. Review the following descriptions of each grade below:

• A grade: Can effectively dissipate heat at speeds over 115 mph
• B grade: Can effectively dissipate heat between 100 to 115 mph
• C grade: Can effectively dissipate heat between 85 to 100

As you can see, an A grade means your car can handle the highest levels of heat, while C can handle the lowest acceptable levels. Most people won’t ever drive their car faster than 85 to 100 mph, so most drivers can get away with tires featuring a C temperature rating. However, you may want to go higher if you plan to drive your vehicle faster or simply want greater heat resistance.

Schedule Tire Replacement Services at Your Local Chapel Hill Tire

If you’re looking for new tires near you in Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Whenever you need to change your tires, our team can help you understand the UTQG ratings for a new set of tires and give you advice on what ratings you should be looking for. With our 11 Triangle-area locations and many services, we’re confident we can get your car back on the road quickly and safely.

Review our selection of tires today. If you need tire replacement services or other types of vehicle maintenance, please schedule an appointment!

During the summer, you need your car working at its best for road trips, vacations, or just rides around town. While the summer is a great time to take your car out on the road, the heat can be dangerous to your car. Instead of risking heat-related break-downs, you can follow a few car summer maintenance tips to keep your car in great shape all summer long.

4 Car and Tire Maintenance Tips for the Summer

Whether it’s your engine, tires, fluids, or battery, heat can seriously strain your car’s most important parts. Fortunately, receiving some inspections and maintenance services can protect your car from the heat. Review our top four summer car maintenance tips below:

1. Have Your Fluids Checked

Your car uses several fluids to stop different systems from overheating. If you haven’t had your fluid levels checked recently, your levels could be low, meaning some of your car’s systems might be at a higher risk of overheating.

To make sure your car has the right fluid levels, a mechanic should check your car’s coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid. When the mechanic refills your fluids, they should only use a fluid type your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends.

2. Inspect the Battery

In the summer, the heat can be hard on your battery. Since the heat will raise the temperature under your vehicle’s hood, your battery will corrode faster. Alongside the higher risk of corrosion, water can evaporate your battery’s liquid electrolyte. Both of these issues can shorten the battery’s life and lower its capacity.

Since the heat can be dangerous for a battery, it’s important a mechanic inspects it. At a service location, a mechanic can look for corrosion on or near the battery. If they find corrosion, they may be able to clean it, but sometimes they’ll need to replace your battery depending on the severity of the corrosion. They should also check your battery to make sure it has enough charge for the summer.

3. Check Your Vehicle’s Tire Pressure

Just like your car’s fluids and battery, the heat can affect your tire pressure. While cold weather can lower your tire pressure, the summer heat will cause air molecules in your tire to spread out and move faster. As a result, the air molecules can cause your tires to over-inflate. High temperatures also mean your tires will generate more heat while you drive, increasing the risk of your tires bursting.

To protect your tires from overinflating and potentially bursting while you’re driving, take your car in for an inspection. During this inspection, a mechanic will check your tire’s pressure and let any excess air out of them. By keeping your vehicle’s tire pressure at the right levels, you’ll lower the risk of a burst tire stranding you on the side of the road. You can also make sure your tires stay at the right pressure by regularly using a tire pressure gauge to check them.

4. Schedule an Oil Change

When your driving in the summer, the high temperatures raise the risk of your engine overheating. As your engine heats up, it will reduce your oil’s viscosity and make it thinner. Without the right viscosity, your engine won’t have enough lubrication and will generate more friction. This friction can then overheat your engine.

Though the summer can affect your car’s oil, you can keep your vehicle in great shape by scheduling an oil change. During an oil change, the mechanic can use a more viscous oil to reduce the risk of your oil thinning to unsafe levels. They can also fill the oil to your car’s max to better protect the engine from overheating. You should also know that if you get an oil change from Chapel Hill Tire, it will include a tire air pressure check and fluids level inspection, ensuring your vehicle is ready for the summer.

Schedule a Summer Car Maintenance Appointment at Chapel Hill Tire

If you’re looking for car service near you in the Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. With our 11 Triangle-area locations and experienced mechanics, we’re confident we can prepare your car for the summer heat. Our mechanics can change your oil, inspect your vehicle, refill fluids, and perform any maintenance services you need. Before you drop off your car for service, check our current promotions to see how much you can save. When you need maintenance or an oil change, schedule your appointment today!

Some vehicle lighting issues are impossible to miss, while others can be “out of sight, out of mind”—until they cause a problem. As a critical part of your car’s safety, it is essential to keep your vehicle lights in working order. Our local mechanics are here with five signs you need light service. 

1. Unusual Beeping Sounds

Are you noticing your turn signal making an unusual beeping sound? This sound could be your car’s way of letting you know your indicator bulb is out. The burnt-out bulb will send an irregular current through your system, causing it to beep faster. This helpful change of pace lets drivers know it is time for turn signal bulb replacement. 

2. Trouble Seeing on the Road

Naturally, your headlights should help you see the road clearly at night. In some cases, a headlight bulb will give out all at once. In other cases, your headlight problems can onset gradually—making the issue harder to spot. However, if you are experiencing difficulties seeing on the road at night, have your headlights inspected by a local mechanic. You can find information about five reasons your headlights may be dimming here. 

3. Road Rage and Driving Mishaps

Most drivers can go several days, weeks, or even months without hearing another car’s horn beeping at them. However, even the most careful drivers can seem reckless or inconsiderate when driving with a broken safety light. 

For example, while you might always use your turn signal properly, other drivers will not see it with a burnt-out bulb. In these cases, a well-indicated turn can seem unexpected to the driver behind you. If you find yourself confused by the responses you are getting on the road, take a moment to check your lighting for issues. 

Additionally, your vehicle lights are installed to promote safety and prevent accidents. Naturally, when one of your lights is out, you might find yourself experiencing close calls on the road. However, a close call can quickly become a full-blown car accident without prompt service. This danger is why it is essential to have faulty bulbs replaced as soon as possible. 

4. Routine Vehicle Lighting Checks

The easiest way to determine if you have a vehicle lighting problem is to check for issues manually. This inspection is easy to do on your own—and even easier with a friend. With your car parked in a safe location, initiate your headlights, turn signals, and reverse lights one at a time. Have your companion let you know if they’re working effectively. 

The process is similar when working on your own, except that you will have to do both roles—turning on each light, exiting your car, and checking its performance. The only bulbs that can be challenging to see independently are your reverse lights. To check your reverse lights on your own, you have a few options:

• Set up your phone’s camera to record your vehicle in reverse. 
• Turn on your parking brake and put your vehicle in reverse. Double-check to ensure your parking brake is working to prevent vehicle movement before exiting your car to check the reverse lights. 
• If all else fails, ask a mechanic to check your reverse lights. They will do this for free—and it takes just a few moments. 

5. Failing Your Annual Car Inspection

As mentioned above, your lights are a vital car safety feature. As such, all safety lighting must work effectively to earn a pass on your annual car inspection. Drivers may fail the inspection for a burnt-out turn signal, brake light, tail light, or headlight. You can read our guide to everything checked during your car’s safety inspection here. 

Other Car Lighting Issues

If you don’t find a burnt-out bulb, you might have another vehicle underlying issue. Let’s take a look at some reasons your car’s lights might not be working—even with well-functioning bulbs:

• Lens issues: Your lenses are made of professional-grade acrylic. This material allows your lights to shine through while thoroughly protecting the bulb. However, the sun’s UV rays can oxidize the acrylic over time, making your lenses foggy, yellow, and opaque. A headlight restoration service carefully removes the oxidized layer of your lenses to improve your light visibility. 
• Wiring issues: In other cases, your vehicle lighting issue could be caused by a wiring mishap. This issue is especially probable if you recently attempted DIY lighting or electrical solutions. A professional mechanic can find and repair the wiring issues to restore your light’s functionality. 
• Power troubles: While gas cars are powered by fuel, their electrical elements (like the lighting) will rely on the battery and alternator. Depending on your lighting type and vehicle, your car lights might start dimming as an early indicator of battery failure. Click here for our guide to the four most common signs you are due for a new car battery. 
• Vehicle configurations: It is worth double-checking to ensure your lights are turned on to your preferred setting. While it might seem obvious, it is easy to flip a switch or change your settings without realizing it. In the rare case that your car’s lights are turned off rather than broken, this quick check can save you an extra trip to the mechanic. 

Local Car Bulb Replacement and Headlight Service

When your car has lighting troubles, the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. You can bring your vehicle to one of our 11 Triangle-area locations—or let us come to YOU with our pick-up and delivery service. We welcome you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!

Nobody likes dipping into savings for a new set of tires. However, you can make the most of your tires and delay replacement with routine maintenance. How often should you have your tires serviced? What kind of services do your tires require? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight. 

How Often Do I Need My Tires Rotated?

Answer: Most vehicles require tire rotations every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or every six months. 

Your ideal tire rotation schedule will depend on a few factors, including your driving frequency, local road conditions, tire quality, and driving patterns.

Front tires experience extra friction with every twist and turn on the road. Additionally, the front of your car tends to carry a more consistent weight from the engine. Collectively, these factors cause your front tires to wear out more quickly than your rear tires. By regularly rotating your tires, you can help them wear more evenly. 

When Should I Replace My Tires? 

Answer: When the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch of thickness or when your tire otherwise indicates replacement needs. There are three circumstances when you need to get your tires replaced: 

• Worn tire tread: Once your tires reach 2/32 of an inch of tread depth, you will need a new set installed. The low tire tread will leave your car vulnerable on the road—delaying braking and challenging your handling. You can read our complete guide to tire tread depth here. 
• Old tires: Old rubber is stiff, leading to tire blowouts and catastrophic car accidents. In fact, other countries have banned tires with rubber older than ten years. You can read our complete guide to tire age here. 
• Other tire damage: Extreme punctures, sidewall damage, and other tire issues can require replacement—regardless of tire age or tread depth. 

When Do I Need Tire Patching Service?

Answer: As-Needed

You only need tire patching service when your rubber has been punctured by something like a nail, screw, or another road hazard. There are a few ways to tell when you need this service, including:

• Consistently or unusually low pressure in a single tire
• Visible signs of a puncture (such as the sight of a nail in your tire)
• A tire that won’t stay inflated
• Poor fuel economy

Most tire patching services are quick and simple. However, you will need tire replacement services if the damage is beyond a minor puncture. 

Please note that tires can be incredibly challenging to patch on your own. Thankfully, with Chapel Hill Tire’s Drive Happy Advantage, tire patching services are free for all tires purchased in our shops. 

How Often Should I Have My Tires Aligned?

Answer: As-needed

You only need your tires aligned when they are thrown off-center. Misalignment can be caused by rocky terrains, suspension changes, and rough driving patterns. You might need a tire alignment if you notice your steering wheel shaking or pulling to one side of the road. 

When Do I Need Tire Balancing Service?

Answer: By manufacturer recommendation. 

Much like tire alignment, most cars only need balancing service when an issue arises. However, some tire manufacturers recommend having your tires balanced once a year or at specific intervals. A mechanic will use small weights to even the load distribution of a tire/wheel to ensure smooth and even rotation. 

How Often Should I Inspect My Tires?

Answer: Every month 

Experts will inspect your tires during every routine service visit. However, there is no such thing as checking your tires too much. Whether daily, weekly, or monthly, taking a quick glance at your tires can help you catch problems early and prevent more significant issues. Look for:

• Low tire pressure
• Sidewall damage
• Oxidizing rubber
• Uneven tire wear

Tire Services Near Me at Chapel Hill Tire

When your tire needs service, our local mechanics have you covered! We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 11 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make an appointment or call us to get started today! 

Annual vehicle registration renewal can sneak up on drivers. When the DMV notice arrives in the mail, you may worry that your vehicle will fail its safety inspection. Thankfully, these inspections are easy to pass—especially with the right help on your side. Our local mechanics are here to help with the most common causes of safety inspection failure (and their solutions). 

1. Burnt Out Bulbs

As many manufacturers switch to LED bulbs, burnt-out vehicle lighting is becoming less common. However, this is still a top driver of car inspection failure. Why? Lighting encompasses several inspection checkpoints. To pass your NC inspection, you will need to ensure that all of your lights are working, including:

• Both headlights
• All brake lighting
• Accessory lighting (like reverse lights and license plate lights)
• Both turn signal lights

Most commonly, these issues are caused by a burnt-out bulb. Traditional incandescent lights will require a simple replacement service. However, you might need more advanced mechanic support if an LED light burns out. 

2. Tire Tread Wear

While they can seem more relevant to function than safety, your tire tread supports your braking and handling efforts. Drivers struggle to slow down, stop, and manage their vehicles without the tire tread depth needed to grip the road. Worn-out tires can pose severe safety threats—especially during inclement weather. 

Additionally, certain tire hazards can cause a full blowout, often causing devastating accidents. As such, the safety inspection requires your tires to be within the legal tread limit (2/32 of an inch thick). Your mechanic will also check for any unusual wear and tear, like bumps, bulges, and knots. In any of these cases, you will need tire replacement service to pass your safety inspection. 

3. Worn Out Break Pads

Brakes are perhaps the most well-known safety feature. Unless you drive a hybrid or electric vehicle (which often have regenerative braking systems), your vehicle will require regular brake service to pass your NC safety inspection. Most frequently, worn brake pads are the culprit of inspection failure. Your brake pads must be at least 1/16 of an inch thick to pass. For worn-out brake pads, a simple replacement service will help you pass.

4. Tattered Windshield Wipers

Part of your safety inspection is ensuring your vehicle is ready for inclement weather. Windshield wipers are essential for clearing rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation. This vital safety feature also helps remove any bugs, dirt, pollen, or debris that may impact your vision on the road. As such, they must be in good working order to pass your safety inspection. 

However, your windshield wipers can begin to tatter or become ineffective over time. The rubber blade must flush evenly against your windshield to work correctly. With exposure to the elements, this rubber breaks down and oxidizes, causing degradation. Thankfully, this issue requires a simple wiper blade replacement service to avoid inspection failure.

Other Causes of Inspection Failure

As the name suggests, safety inspections only check your car’s safety features. As such, items like a check engine light or missed oil change will not cause failure. However, there are a few other ways to fail your NC car inspection, including:

• Extremely discolored headlight lenses—often require headlight restoration service. 
• Broken or loose mirrors (including both side mirrors and your rearview mirror)
• Steering system issues
• DIY window tinting that does not meet the legal requirements
• Issues with your car horn—including horns that are too quiet or too loud
• A stolen catalytic converter or other exhaust issues
• A failed emissions inspection (unless exempt)

You can read our full checklist of everything examined during an annual NC safety inspection here. 

Safety and Emissions Inspections Near Me: Chapel Hill Tire

When you are due for your inspection, visit the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire. We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 11 locations across Durham, Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. Our professional mechanics provide safety inspections, emissions inspections, trip checks, and any services you need to pass. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today! 

Windshield wipers are often an overlooked part of our vehicle maintenance, but they play a crucial role in maintaining our safety on the road. A clear and unobstructed view of the road is essential for safe driving, especially during adverse weather conditions. 

Windshield wipers offer increased visibility clearing rain, snow, and debris from your windshield. Over time, wiper blades become worn, resulting in streaks, smears, and overall reduced effectiveness. This can hinder your ability to see clearly, especially during heavy rain or snowfall, putting you and your most precious cargo at risk.

4 Signs That Show You Need Wiper Replacement:

Knowing what to look for can help you identify the right time to change your worn-out windshield wipers—before you get caught in adverse weather or fail your State Vehicle Inspection.

1. Streaking or Smearing: If your wipers are leaving streaks or smears on the windshield, even after cleaning, it’s a clear indication that the blades have deteriorated and need replacement. 
2. Skipping or Chattering: If the wiper blades skip across the windshield or make a chattering noise, it’s a sign of worn-out rubber, reducing their effectiveness.
3. Uneven Wiping: Keep an eye out for areas on the windshield that remain unwiped or have reduced coverage. Uneven wiping is an indication that your wiper blades are bent or worn enough to no longer make proper contact with the glass.
4. Cracked or Split Rubber: Every few weeks, inspect the rubber portion of the wiper blades for cracks, splits, or missing chunks. Damaged rubber blades can’t effectively clear the windshield, compromising visibility.

5 Easy Steps to Replacing Windshield Wipers:

Windshield wipers replacement is one of the easier vehicle maintenance items to keep up with. Follow these 5 simple steps from the auto repair experts at Chapel Hill Tire. 

1. Determine the Correct Size: Before purchasing new wiper blades, measure the length of the existing blades or consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the appropriate size.
2. Purchase the Right Blades: Visit an auto parts store or contact your local car service experts, like Chapel Hill Tire in Raleigh, to purchase high-quality wiper blades that match the size and specifications recommended for your vehicle.
3. Remove the Old Wiper Blades: Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield and locate the small tab or button where the blade connects to the arm. Press or slide it to release the old blade and carefully remove it.
4. Attach the New Wiper Blades: Align the new wiper blade’s connector with the hook or pin on the wiper arm. Gently press the blade until it clicks into place. Ensure that it is securely attached.
5. Test the New Blades: Lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield and turn on your vehicle’s wiper system to check the new blades’ functionality. Confirm that they are wiping smoothly and providing a clear view.

Windshield Wiper Replacement at Chapel Hill Tire

Maintaining clear visibility while driving is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road. If your windshield wipers are showing signs of wear or if it’s time for a replacement, don’t delay. Contact Chapel Hill Tire, your local car service experts in Raleigh, for professional windshield wiper replacement. 

Our experienced technicians can ensure that you have high-quality wiper blades installed correctly, giving you the confidence to face any weather conditions.

Whether you’re in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, or Carrboro, you can stop by, make your appointment online, or call us to get started today!