Category: Resource

Your car battery is essential in getting you where you need to go. Specifically, your battery often needs 12 volts of power to start your vehicle. Our local mechanics are here with a closer look at car battery voltage.  

12-Volt DC Battery: The Car Standard

“How many volts are in a car battery?” Most vehicles on the road are powered by a 12-volt DC battery. Even hybrid and electric cars have 12-volt batteries working alongside their high-power battery packs. 

While your alternator takes over the electrical functions of your car while you are driving, this battery plays several vital roles in the driving process:

• Starting: Before your alternator can kick in, your 12V car battery is responsible for starting your car and powering all functions.
• Unlocking: When you click the fob to unlock your car automatically, it uses power from your battery to signal and turn the locks. (Hint: If your car battery dies and your vehicle will not unlock, most fobs have a hidden key for manual unlocking). 
• Keeping the Lights On: After you turn off your engine, your battery will keep the lights on and allow other functions to continue—like the radio and device charging.

A Closer Look: How Many Volts in a Car Battery

While they are called “12-volt batteries,” this is simply the nominal voltage rating. In other words, 12 volts is the energy output car batteries should provide in normal circumstances. 

The actual voltage supply can vary slightly depending on the battery’s composition, age, testing circumstances, and charge. Let’s take a look at some examples:

• If you test your car battery while it is actively running, a healthy unit will read between 13 volts and 15 volts.
• If your battery is fully charged after a long drive, the voltage output might read as ~12.4 volts – 12.9 volts.
• Meanwhile, an older battery low on charge after a cold winter night might read as 12 volts or lower. 

Why does voltage matter? It is always better to replace your battery at the first signs of failure—rather than wait until you are stranded on the go. Keeping an eye on your battery output can help. This reading can also signal whether your battery is declining early. In these cases, you can take measures to further protect your battery and prolong its lifespan.

You can easily have your car battery tested and serviced by a professional mechanic. However, most vehicles require the full 12-volt output to start. If you don’t have the juice you need to make it to a local shop, here are some resources that can help:

• An 8-step guide to jump-starting your car battery
• How to jump a hybrid car battery
• 5 dead battery tips and tricks to keep you moving
• Is jumping a dead car battery safe?

Low Voltage Output: Causes and Solutions

What Causes Car Battery Failure?

On average, most car batteries last 4-7 years, depending on how well you care for them. Generally, if your car battery is supplying low voltage, it is experiencing routine failure. However, there are a few other potential causes of low voltage, including:

• A failing alternator: Your alternator recharges your battery as you drive. Without proper alternator functioning, your car battery will quickly die. 
• Corrosion: Any corrosion on your car battery can interrupt its charging and power transfer. 
• Electrical issue: Rather than low output, there could be an issue with the electrical connection in your engine. 
• Starter Issue: If your car doesn’t have the power it needs to turn over, there could be an issue with any component in your starting system. 

Solutions for Your Car Battery

While it might be too late for your current car battery, there are a few potential solutions that can help preserve your new 12-volt DC battery:

• Regular driving: Your alternator recharges your car battery as you drive. Avoiding long periods of dormancy can help keep your battery healthy and charged.
• Avoid extreme temperatures: The summer’s heat can destroy your car battery from the inside out—causing irreversible damage. Meanwhile, cold temperatures slow down the electrochemical process that generates your battery’s power. 
• Keep away corrosion: You can have corroded battery terminal ends replaced by a professional mechanic to extend the lifespan of your battery. 
• Avoid lingering electronics: When your engine is turned off, all of your car’s functions (like the lights, phone charging, and radio) will depend solely on your 12-volt battery—draining away its charge. Be sure to turn off all lights and unplug your devices after switching your engine off. 
• Maintain routine vehicle maintenance: In some cases, regular engine maintenance can help keep your battery protected. For example, during the colder months, slow-moving engine oil can force your vehicle to work harder to start. Naturally, this requires an extra boost of energy from your battery. Fresh engine oil helps alleviate this stress on your battery and engine. 

Car Battery Replacement Near Me at Chapel Hill Tire

If you need your car battery serviced, tested, or replaced, the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire have you covered! We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!

Hearing that your transmission failed can feel like a nail in the coffin for your vehicle. So, should you have your transmission replaced? Or should you buy a new car? The answer here is more complicated than it might seem. Our local mechanics are here with some factors you should consider. 

Why Are Transmission Issues So Expensive?

When caught early, a mechanic can affordably repair some surface-level transmission issues. For example, replacing a faulty solenoid, seal, gasket, or shifter cable is often relatively straightforward and affordable. However, most transmission failures are often more severe and expensive for a few important reasons:

• Complex repairs for simple issues: Transmissions contain complex mechanical components carefully assembled and calibrated to your vehicle. As such, a simple interior issue can require highly complex service. For example, your gears can quickly become worn or damaged without fresh transmission fluid. Unlike exterior components (like the solenoid or shifter cable), transmission gears are on shafts inside the transmission. So while gear replacement might sound easy, it requires a mechanic to completely remove, disassemble, repair, and reassemble your transmission. 
• Challenging Detection: As mentioned above, you are more likely to access affordable repairs when you catch a transmission issue early. However, transmission issues are notoriously difficult for drivers to detect. Why? Many transmission issues do not display noticeable symptoms until they become extensive problems. 
• The Domino Effect: Your transmission is a network of parts and systems that all work together. One minor issue can create a domino effect—quickly causing total system failure. 

Keeping up with simple maintenance services, like transmission fluid replacement, can help prevent these issues and catch problems early. 

Extensive transmission repair can often cost as much as a new installation. So drivers are often left with two options: replacing the transmission or buying a new car. Which is right for you? Let’s take a closer look. 

1: Insurance or Warranty: Transmission Replacement

If your transmission replacement is free, you should take full advantage of this option. Even if you plan on buying a new car anyways, a transmission replacement will help you get a much better resale value. 

Drivers might find free transmission replacement from a manufacturer’s warranty or your insurance coverage. Generally speaking, your warranty might cover internal transmission failure, while insurance may cover transmission issues caused by an outside source. 

Warranties: Does my Warranty Cover Transmission Replacement?

Transmission repairs and replacements are covered under the drivetrain or powertrain warranty provided by most manufacturers. Some powertrain warranties cover up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. 

However, there are a few caveats to this solution drivers should keep in mind: 

• Your warranty can be void if you do not keep up with your routine maintenance—like transmission fluid replacement. 
• In some cases, certain warranty limitations may apply if you are not the vehicle’s original owner.
• Your warranty may be void if you use your vehicle for work—such as with a delivery or a driving service like Amazon, Uber, or Lyft. 
• The manufacturer may ask for proof that the damage was caused by an issue with the materials or assembly. 

Insurance: Does my Insurance Cover Transmission Replacement?

Generally speaking, insurance does not cover transmission failure from an internal part or component. But issues caused by an outside source may fall under your insurance coverage, including transmission damage from:

• A car accident
• Inclement weather (like a tornado, hurricane, or flood)
• Hitting a road hazard (including debris or an animal)
• Theft or vandalism

Of course, this will depend on your insurance policy, coverage, the exact cause and nature of the damage, and the assessment done by your insurance company. It is worth a call to your insurance agent to see if they can help.  

2: Classic Car: Transmission Replacement

Work you do to fix up a classic car—from a new transmission to an EV conversion—is often well worth the investment. While you are unlikely to find a classic transmission, updating with newer parts will keep the vehicle drivable. 

Many drivers also find it worthwhile to fix up cars with sentimental value. A car that once belonged to a loved one can feel priceless to maintain. 

3: Failing or Older Vehicles: Buy a New Car

Not all older vehicles are created equally. Failing vehicles are likely to require repair after repair. You might pay thousands to replace the transmission—only to find the engine fails next week. Even with frequent smaller issues, the cost of ongoing repair services can add up quickly—making a new car well worth the extra investment. 

4: Vehicles in Otherwise Good Shape: Transmission Replacement

As mentioned above, a newer car is likely to have transmission service covered under the powertrain warranty. However, even if the warranty is void, it is still worth your money to consider transmission service. In these cases, your trade-in devaluation of a failed transmission will often cost far more than the transmission replacement. 

For example, let’s say your new transmission will cost close to $7,000. When you trade your vehicle in, dealers might take $10,000 off your resale value. 

Cars with significant issues give the dealership the upper hand. They know you need a new car and are often eager to use this leverage to charge you more. In this case, having your transmission replaced before buying a new car will save you $3,000. 

Here is a way to test whether this option is right for you. First, speak with a local mechanic to estimate your new transmission cost. Then, call a few local dealerships and ask for a free car trade-in appraisal—with and without a failed transmission. 

5: Your Financial Best Interests

Replacing a transmission can cost anywhere from $2,900 – $7,100 (according to data from KBB). This cost will depend on a variety of factors, including your vehicle’s make, model, and the type of transmission it requires. 

Transmission replacement is one of the most expensive services a vehicle can encounter. Because of the high costs, many drivers wonder, “Is paying for a transmission replacement worth it?” 

Even at $5,000+, a new transmission can be more affordable than trading in your vehicle and buying a new car, making this the most financially accessible solution for many drivers. However, there are a few additional considerations here:

The truth is, you know your financial situation best. A mechanic can help you understand transmission replacement costs so you can make the right decision for you. 

Local Transmission Service in Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill

The professionals at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help you get the transmission service you need. We will help you understand the costs, timeline, and options so that you can make the best decision for you. If you decide to have your transmission replaced by our local mechanics, we offer free loaner vehicles for extended services to help keep you on the go. 

Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves the Triangle with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our mechanics also commonly serve nearby drivers, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today! 

Your tires are essential to your vehicle’s safety and performance on the road. One of the lesser-known implications of low tire tread depth is braking inefficiencies. With this, there is one key understanding for driver safety: the lower your tire tread, the more distance your car will need to stop.

So, when a fender bender or a car accident happens, many drivers blame their brakes. However, we recommend taking a look at your tires. The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.

How Do Brakes Work?

To understand the effects of low tire tread on braking distance, it is essential to understand how brakes work. When you press your foot against the brake pedal, you set an entire system into motion:

• Using powerful hydraulics (provided by brake fluid), your brake pads press against your metal rotor—which is connected to your tires. 
• As the rotor slows, your tires will also start to slow down. 
• With help from the rotors, your tires use friction against the road to stop your car. 

This system depends on a variety of healthy vehicle parts, including your braking fluid, brake pads, rotors, and tires. However, tires are often overlooked as a braking component—despite the essential role they play in this process. 

Factors that Impact Braking Distance

How long does it take your car to fully stop your vehicle on the road? We all know that NC law (Statute Section 20-152) requires you to keep a full vehicle distance between you and the car in front of you. However, many cars need more time than that to stop. Some factors that impact your stopping time/distance include:

• How fast your car is going
• Your brake pad and rotor conditions
• The kind of tires you have
• Your reaction time to the need for braking
• Whether the road is flat or inclined
• How old and oxidized your tires are
• Your brake fluid level and quality
• How inflated your tires are
• Tire brand and quality
• Whether the road is wet or dry (and how heavy or long it has been raining)
• And (as you might have guessed) your tire tread depth
• The amount of force you apply to your brake pedal

Let’s take a closer look at how tire tread depth impacts braking performance. 

The Impacts of Tread Depth on Braking Distance

The legal limit of tire tread depth is 2/32 of an inch, which drivers can check with their tread wear indicator bars or a manual tread inspection. Meanwhile, new tires often come with 10/32 to 11/32 inches of tread depth. While all tires within this tread depth range are legal, the braking performance ranges drastically.

So while 2/32 inches of tread depth might be legal, it can take your car roughly the length of a professional football field to stop—making it hard to prevent accidents. 

This data comes from Hunter Engineering Company—who’s advanced equipment our mechanics trust and use daily. In the collection of this data, the road conditions are wet and flat. The professional driver is going 60 miles per hour.

Find New Tires Near Me at Chapel Hill Tire

Your car safety is our priority here at Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you need new tires, a tire inspection, a patching service, a vehicle safety inspection, new brake pads, or any other car service, our mechanics are here for you. 

We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Durham, Cary, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Apex. Our local mechanics invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to become more prevalent, it is vital to truly understand its impact on our lives. From automated car washes to self-driving cars—we are discovering the best and worst possibilities AI has to offer almost every day. 

So, how do these advancements impact you and your service? Our local mechanics are here to unpack how AI is affecting car care. 

The Benefits of AI on Car Care

Automotive AI technology is designed to improve vehicle safety and promote driver convenience. Several of these safety features can also protect your vehicle from damage:

• Automatic tire inflation features can sense when you have low tire pressure and inflate them to the correct PSI. 
• Any active safety features that prevent accidents can protect your car from a variety of potential damages. 
• New AI predictive maintenance systems can detect issues arising in your vehicle. Beyond simply telling drivers when they are due for routine service, this technology can detect problems currently developing in the car. Predictive maintenance alerts help drivers get the preventative service they need before an issue turns into costly damage. 
• AI driver monitoring systems can detect when a driver is distracted or drowsy and help the driver stay alert. 

AI also has the potential to improve vehicle production. Not only can AI make vehicles more affordable, but it can also catch recall issues and hazards before they hit the road. 

Potentially Increased Wear and Tear

As mentioned above, AI technology is designed to improve the driving experience for safety and convenience. Unfortunately, while these features can protect your car from damage, they also have the potential to cause unintentional wear and tear. 

For example, lane assistance is one of the many popular safety features powered by AI. As the name suggests, this technology guides your car to the center of the lane whenever it senses you veering on the road. 

In addition to enhanced safety, this feature has the potential to cause extra tire wear. Let’s say you attempt to drive around a pothole on the road. You may find your lane assistance trying to pull your tires back to the center. This extra back-and-forth on the pavement is harmful to tire tread. If you do not have a firm grip on the steering wheel, lane assist technology might even successfully veer your car into the hazard you hoped to avoid. 

Similarly, if AI in your car detects a potential collision, active safety features might apply your brakes for you. However, if the sensor is picking up on a “false positive” signal (meaning collision is not actually a threat), it could engage harsh braking for no reason. This error can cause premature wear on your brake pads, warped calipers, or even risk a rear-end collision.

Sensors and Hardware Maintenance

As with any modern technology, automotive AI software is only as capable as your vehicle’s hardware. The hardware, in this case, includes the most foundational components of the car itself—such as the engine and tires.

While it might sound obvious that your vehicle needs to be in good working order to drive, your AI features might not have the same awareness or discretion as you. For example, does a self-driving car sense when your tire is flat and know to pull over? If not, it can lead to major rim damage or accidents on the road. 

As this technology continues to evolve, it is essential to keep your vehicle up-to-date on all of its maintenance needs. 

Car Care Communication and Misinformation

As search engines and other online resources turn to artificial intelligence to automate their content, mechanics are carrying the weight of AI’s limitations. Not only can AI content present bias and bigotry, but it can also be incredibly inaccurate. Misinformation can leave drivers seeking car care solutions astray.

For drivers who turn to DIY solutions or guidance online, this can cause some trouble. Now more than ever, it is essential to trust the experts. 

Trusted Car Care at Chapel Hill Tire

The ASE-certified mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire do not cut any corners. We stay up-to-date on all of the latest car care needs to best serve our community. 

Our experts proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and more. You can make an online appointment or give us a call to get started today!

While automatic car washes can seem fun and harmless, as the saying goes: you get what you pay for. Unfortunately, this saying is especially true in the world of car washing services. In fact, automatic car wash machines can do more harm than good for your vehicle—potentially causing thousands of dollars in damage. 

Our local mechanics are unpacking at nine reasons you should avoid automatic car washes. 

1: Car Paint Scratches and Damage

While your car might look clean, walking away from an automatic car wash, you cannot see all the micro-abrasions covering the surface. The recycled water, dirty bristles, and harsh mechanics of these washes result in abrasive substances thrown toward your vehicle at high speeds. 

In the worst cases, you can find visible scratches to your paint job on the other side of the car wash. However, these scrapes more often come as minor dents to your protective clear coat. Because they are not usually visible to the naked eye, drivers are unaware of the damage car wash machines can do. 

Without a solid clear coat, your paint will rust, chip, and corrode—causing thousands of dollars in damage. 

2: Alignment Troubles

Driving onto a car wash conveyor belt is not an exact science. If your vehicle is misaligned on the conveyor belts of automatic car washes, they can pull your tires and steering system out of alignment. In addition, if the conveyor belts themselves are misaligned or moving at slightly different speeds, you are more likely to encounter trouble.

3: Broken or Damaged Rearview Mirrors

Many car wash machines have industrial moving parts designed to embrace vehicles of every size and shape. Unfortunately, this can spell trouble for your side mirrors. Unlike the smooth surface of your car’s exterior, your mirrors stick out into the harsh trajectory of these mechanical arms. If your vehicle is off-center or your mirrors are loose, you might drive out of the car wash without them. 

4: Hard Water Stains and Paint Damage

Automatic car washes do not dry your car properly, which can leave hard water stains covering the surface of your vehicle. So, what are hard water stains? Water can quickly evaporate after your car wash, leaving calcium and magnesium carbonates behind. 

Worse even, automatic car washes often recycle water—meaning dirt and salts from other vehicles can also be mixed into the water. Collectively, these materials can be corrosive to your clear coat and your paint. If not removed promptly, they can cause permanent damage to your car. 

Additionally, they leave your freshly “cleaned” car looking dirty. During a professional car wash and detail, a professional will use clean water before drying your vehicle by hand. 

5: Bent or Broken Windshield Wipers

Much like your rearview mirrors, windshield wipers can be prone to damage in automatic car washes. While they might not stick out as far as your mirrors, these components are thinner and more vulnerable. Almost any exterior surface of your vehicle can be put at risk by automatic car washes. From broken tire pressure sensors to valve stem damage and antenna issues—we have heard it all. 

A hand car wash is the only way to ensure your vehicle will be cleaned safely and effectively. 

6: Rim Damage from Car Washes

There are several different types of automatic car wash conveyor belts. Some of these systems work like a grocery store conveyor belt or an airport moving sidewalk—allowing your car to ride through. Meanwhile, others work by grabbing your tire to guide your vehicle forward. Unless you have rim guards, this can create a metal-on-metal connection—quickly causing rim damage. 

7: Windshield Damage and Cracking

Unless there is a system malfunction, an automatic car wash is not likely to create a new crack in your car’s windshield. However, these machines can severely worsen existing damage. While you might think, “That doesn’t apply to me—my windshield isn’t cracked!” It might be more of a threat than you think. Small windshield knicks you might not even notice on your vehicle can turn into full-blown cracks inside an automatic car wash. 

If you already have a noticeable crack, automatic car washes threaten to make it worse with the pressure of mechanical arms. 

8: Interior Considerations

Automatic car washes only get half of the job done. While you might be more concerned about getting dirt or pollen off your paint job, interior consideration is vital to preserving the value of your car. Abrasive dirt, sand, crumbs, and debris can dig into your fabric or leather upholstery. Professional car wash and detailing services will polish both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. 

9: Ineffective Car Cleaning

What is the point of paying for a car wash if it does not actually clean your car? In some cases, the dirty bristles and recycled water of automatic car washes can actually make your car dirtier. The hard-to-reach areas of your vehicle will be untouched—and these surfaces often need the most attention. On the other hand, professional car washing and detailing can leave your vehicle shining—inside and out. 

Mobile Car Wash and Detailing at Chapel Hill Tire

You can skip the automatic car washes—and the damage they provide—with a professional car wash and detailing service at Chapel Hill Tire.

At Chapel Hill Tire, you’ll receive far better than a traditional automatic car wash with our highest-quality detailing services. Sign up for an appointment at any of our Triangle-area locations. If you don’t have time to drop your car by, we will come to you. Our mobile car wash and detailing services are available on the Chapel Hill Tire Google/Andriod and Apple apps. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today! 

As gas prices rise and EV charging stations become more accessible, electric vehicles increase in popularity. Unfortunately, the increased demand and limited supply have also made EV prices spike. As a result, drivers have started taking matters into their own hands—converting their gas-powered vehicles into electric. 

How Do Electric Vehicle Conversions Work?

There are a few different ways to convert a vehicle. However, the fundamentals are all the same:

• Initial Evaluation: First, an expert evaluates the car to ensure it is compatible with the EV conversion process. 
• Out With The Old: Next, they will remove the gas-powered engine and all of its supporting components. 
• In With The New: Then, mechanics begin installing the EV motor, battery, connectors, and adaptors. 
• New Accommodations: Depending on your vehicle, a few additional accommodations might be needed. For example, many car HVAC systems run on gas from the fuel system. In some cases, mechanics can connect this system to your battery. In other cases, you might need a new independent comfort system. 

How Much Do Vehicle Conversions Cost?

The cost of a vehicle conversion can vary starkly—with numbers ranging from a few thousand to well into six figures.

However, the actual cost of a vehicle conversion will depend on a variety of factors, including your car’s make, model, and the electric vehicle conversion equipment it requires. You can visit a local mechanic (like Chapel Hill Tire) for a custom estimate.

Can Any Gas-Powered Car be Converted into EV?

You might be wondering, “Can I turn just any car into an EV?” Technically, any vehicle could be converted; however, not every vehicle is well suited for this switch. The more suitable your car is for conversion, the easier and more affordable this project will be. Perhaps most importantly, the outcome will depend on your vehicle’s suitability. For example, would it be worth it to convert your vehicle if the end result had less than 100 miles of electric range? Here are a few examples of cars that are suitable for conversion:

• Automatic transmission: Manual transmissions often require gas power sources, as they would quickly drain your EV battery. Manual cars also have heavier engine components, like larger transmissions and axles, that will add weight and reduce your driving range. 
• Lightweight vehicles: Heavier vehicles will also require more power and will quickly drain out your EV battery. Lightweight yet sturdy vehicles will provide the best outcomes. 
• Plenty of space: Retrofitting a gas-powered car with an EV system will require some extra room. Before deciding on a vehicle conversion, it is good to do some research on how suitable your vehicle is for transformation.
• Older vehicles: The most straightforward and valuable EV conversions come from classic cars. These engines are much less complicated, making the conversion processes easier. At the end of the transformation, you have a fully re-engineered classic that can hit the road without breaking the bank. 

Gas to Electric Conversions: Is the Cost Worth It?

Vehicle conversions are changing the electric vehicle landscape. However, not everyone will find out the cost of vehicle conversion is worth it. Here are a few examples of EV conversions that are a good idea— and when you might opt to trade in your car for an EV instead.

Your Car Needs A New Engine: Worth It

So you’ve decided to replace your engine? Engine replacement can be costly, but if you’ve already decided on incurring these costs, you might as well upgrade to an electric vehicle system.

You Have an Older Vehicle Still in Good Shape: Likely Worth It

Whether you’re fixing up an old car for sentimental value, a hobby, or simply for the fun of it, electric vehicle conversion is an easy way to give new life to an old car. For classic cars or cars that hold sentimental value, the conversion process will undoubtedly be worth it. 

However, if the market value of your vehicle is low, you might not get your money back after the conversion process. This is why the conversion process is prevalent for classic cars. 

Additionally, if your vehicle is newer, engine issues can likely be covered under warranty. In these cases, it might be free to have your engine repaired instead of paying thousands to buy and retrofit an EV system. 

You’re Ready To Save Money On Gas: Potentially Worth It

Electric vehicle conversion can be a pretty penny, but it saves you money every time you get behind the wheel. On average, EV drivers can save close to $1,000 each year on gas. If you’re going to be driving your vehicle for a long time, the savings will certainly add up. However, you will likely need to drive your car for quite some time to make up the costs for even the most affordable EV conversions. 

Local EV Experts at Chapel Hill Tire

Our mechanics are always up to date with the latest vehicle practices. We are electric vehicle specialists, and we are willing to work with drivers on almost any project. 

We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment, browse our coupons, or give us a call to get started today! 

It is that time of year again: yellow clouds of pollen collect on your vehicle everywhere you go. Not only is pollen an unsightly allergy irritant, but it can also damage your vehicle. Thankfully, local car wash and detailing services can protect your car and keep you Driving Happy™. The mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to unpack five reasons car wash and detailing services are vital during the pollen season. 

1) Saving Your Paint Job from Pollen

Have you ever wondered why pollen doesn’t fall off your vehicle as you drive? We see pollen as fluffy yellow powder blanketing our cars like snow. However, under a microscope, you will see pollen grains covered in abrasive spikes—as seen in the 3d rendered image below. These spikes serve an essential purpose: helping the particles stick to pollinators as they travel to flowery destinations. Unfortunately, these small spikes also help the pollen dig into your paint job and adhere to the surface of your car. 

So, can pollen damage your car’s paint job? The short answer is yes. The longer each grain of pollen spends digging into car paint, the more exposed your coating will be to oxidation and rust.

It is crucial to get the pollen off of your vehicle as soon as possible. However, it is also essential to wash pollen off carefully. Scraping it off dry can be abrasive to your car paint—doing more harm than good. 

Drive-through car washes can also be an abrasive way to remove pollen—especially as the brushes wear out over time. Additionally, these machines can not thoroughly clean your vehicle—leaving pollen sitting on some of the most vulnerable surfaces of your car. 

Having a professional wash your car by hand will ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned, dried, and protected from the harm of pollen. Perhaps most importantly, the finishing polish included in some car detailing packages can prevent pollen latching while also providing a buffer between your paint and the pollen on the surface of your vehicle. 

2) Protecting Your Car’s HVAC

Inside your cabin, your air conditioner circulates a cold airflow to keep you comfortable. This time of year, pollen particles can start to clog up your cabin air filter. Not only does this put your air quality at risk, but it can also damage your car’s HVAC system. As it overworks to force air through a blocked filter, the most common side effect is a refrigerant leak.

While you might think a quick and straightforward coolant top-off can solve refrigerant leaking troubles, it is a much larger issue than drivers expect. Why? Your refrigerant (or coolant) circulates within a sealed system. So, if you encounter a leak, there’s almost always a crack or break requiring more extensive repairs.

Car detailing services can prevent clogged air filters by removing the extra pollen circulating inside your car. Whether you bring your vehicle to Chapel Hill Tire or we come to you, drivers can also have their air filters replaced during the car wash and detailing service appointment.

3) Breathing Cleaner Air As You Drive

The first site of pollen is your cue that allergy season has begun. Breathing in pollen is almost inevitable when it is circulating through the air and sticking to every outdoor surface—especially your car. According to the CDC, allergic reactions to pollen are caused by your immune system thinking these particles are a threat. 

Car wash and detailing services can reduce the impacts of pollen allergies. The detailing element of the service is especially important, as it can limit your exposure in the enclosed cabin and minimize how much pollen you track into your home.

4) Improving Your Summer Gas Mileage

Your car is designed to be smooth, sleek, and cut through the air as you drive. Unfortunately, a coating of pollen can change the aerodynamics of your vehicle. Without a smooth surface, your car will face more wind resistance and lower gas mileage.

Admittedly, the fuel economy effects of pollen are minor, so you might not notice it on the road; however, every penny can make a difference when it comes to spring and summer traveling. After all, why spend more at the pump when you can save gas and drive a vehicle that feels clean inside and out? You can read more in our guide to 5 signs you need a car wash and detailing service.  

5) The Look and Feel of Your Car

It is important to enjoy your ride. When your car is covered in sticky and unsightly pollen, some drivers don’t feel like themselves. Car wash and detailing services can leave your car shining—helping you Drive Happy. While this principle applies to everyone, it is especially true for the car fanatics in your life—making a car detailing service the perfect birthday, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, anniversary, holiday, or “just because” gift. 

Local and Mobile Car Wash + Detailing Services

Chapel Hill Tire’s new car wash and detailing services are helping drivers through the pollen season. You can add a detailing package to any service appointment, or we can come to you! With our mobile detailing service, we will visit your home or office in any service area, including Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Apex, Cary, Durham, Carrboro, Knightdale, Morrisville, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, and beyond. With four amazing packages and countless add-ons to choose from, you are guaranteed to get the service you need to Drive Happy. 

Our mobile detailing service is only available to book through our Apple or Android app. Download the app, book your appointment, and Drive Happy today with Chapel Hill Tire.

Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we continually innovate our business to serve our customers better. In alignment with these efforts, we are proud to officially announce our newest service: mobile car wash and detailing. 

Our latest offering makes it easier than ever to access industry-leading detailing services. We invite you to read more about mobile car wash and detailing services below.

A Guide to Mobile Detailing

You might be wondering, “What is mobile detailing?” Essentially, mobile detailing is the same excellent car wash and detailing packages our drivers have quickly come to love—with the added bonus that our detailing experts will come to you! We bring our supplies to your home, work, or office to complete world-class service.

Mobile Detailing FAQ

You might have some mobile car wash and detailing questions. Well, we have the answers you are looking for! Let’s take a look at some frequently asked customer questions. 

How Do I Book My Mobile Detailing Service?

Thankfully, booking a mobile car wash and detailing service is easy with the Chapel Hill Tire app. Here is a quick rundown of the scheduling process:

• First, download the app. Our mobile car wash and detailing service is only available through our Apple or Google/Android apps. 
• Next, you can check to see if we are available in your area—or jump right in by clicking “book now.”
• Then, select “my location” for mobile detailing, and enter the address you want our experts to visit. 
• From there, you can enter information about the vehicle you want to be serviced. 
• Next, choose the car wash and detailing package you would like to enjoy. We currently have four service packages: Drive Happy, Drive Happy & Shine, Drive Happy Detail, and Drive Happy Awesome Detail. 
• Then, you can add any upgrades you might like added to your service, such as pet hair removal, child car seat treatment, headlight restoration, and so much more!
• Finally, schedule your preferred time and date! 

You can continue using the app to pay for your service, view your appointments, chat with our experts, and find the answers to any questions. 

Roughly How Long Does Mobile Detailing Take?

Your appointment can last anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on various factors, including your vehicle size, condition, interior, and the car wash/detailing package you choose. 

How Much Does Mobile Detailing Service Cost?

Chapel Hill Tire strives to make high-quality car care accessible. Our car wash and detailing experts will come to you for mobile service at no additional charge. The price will depend on the package you choose, along with any applicable upgrades and taxes. 

Should I Clean Out My Car for Detailing Service?

It is a good idea to clean out your car before your mobile detailing service. It is especially important to remove any valuables or personal items. This courtesy will ensure you get focused, superior service while helping your car feels like new after it is done. You can read more in our complete FAQ here. 

Chapel Hill Tire Mobile Detailing Service

Unlock the convenience of high-quality service at your doorstep. Our mobile detailing quality is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This service can help preserve the value of your vehicle while helping you Drive Happy™. So, what are you waiting for? 

Our car wash and detailing experts serve the greater Triangle area through our 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our mobile car wash and detailers also visit nearby cities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment in the app to get started today! 

It is never fun to jump behind the wheel and find that your car won’t start. To make matters worse, many instructions on jump-starting do not provide any specifications or guidance specific to hybrid vehicles. So how do you jump-start a hybrid? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with a step-by-step guide. 

Step 1: Safety Checks

Before you dive in here, please note that jump-starting a car battery can be dangerous. Hybrid car batteries are expensive and powerful—requiring even more caution. Here are a few safety tips to help you get started:

• During this process, keep all children and pets away from the engine(s).
• Ensure you are in a safe location when jumping a car battery.
• Handle any connection to the battery with caution.

If you are unsure of your ability to maintain the highest level of safety, it is better to be safe than sorry. Consider having your car towed to a local mechanic for service in these cases. 

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Naturally, you will need some tools to help you along your jump-starting journey. There are two ways to jump-start a hybrid: 

• Using a jump-starting battery pack: You can jump-start your vehicle on your own using a jump-starting battery pack. If you go this route, you need a well-charged battery jump-starter. 
• Using jumper cables: You do not need to worry if you don’t have a battery pack! The traditional way of jump-starting a vehicle will require you to have jumper cables and a “donor” vehicle with a working, well-powered battery. 

For the sake of this article, we will assume drivers are using traditional jumper cables—though many steps are the same when using jump-starting packs. 

Step 3: Locate the Correct Battery

This step is the most significant difference between jump-starting a gas-powered vehicle and a hybrid. Hybrid cars have two batteries:

• One 12-volt that powers the vehicle like a standard car battery
• One high-powered battery that harnesses the power of regenerative braking to run an electric motor inside the vehicle—making it a hybrid

If your car won’t start, your traditional 12-volt battery is likely the source of these problems. So our next step in jump-starting your vehicle is to pop the hood and locate the correct car battery.

Every hybrid vehicle is different—however, most hybrid batteries are large and rectangular. Meanwhile, standard 12-V car batteries are smaller and boxier—think roughly the size of a child’s shoe box. 

So, where is my battery located? First, take a moment to examine your engine—in most vehicles, you should see your battery when you pop the hood. However, some hybrid cars take on a creative design. In these cases, you might find your battery under the cargo floor or in the trunk. 

Many batteries mark the location of the positive battery terminal. So, you can also look for a red plus (+) mark when searching for your battery. It is also helpful to check your owner’s manual for insight into your battery placement. 

Step 4: Position the Second Vehicle

Once you find your car battery, you can use this insight to position the donor vehicle. Move the two cars close together—roughly two feet apart. You will need to ensure the vehicles are close enough that the jumper cables can comfortably extend to both batteries simultaneously. At the same time, make sure the two cars are not touching each other. 

You should always jump from a battery of equal voltage. Most standard car batteries are 12-volt—but it is worth double-checking both car batteries before getting started. 

Step 5: Turn The Donor Vehicle Off

For safety reasons, both vehicles should be turned off when you get started. Presumably, your hybrid vehicle will already be off because the battery is dead. Make sure you also turn off the donor vehicle before hooking up the cables. 

Step 6: Positive to Positive

First, you will connect both positive (often red) cable clamps to the positive battery terminals. Again, these are often marked by a plus (+) sign. Start by connecting the dead battery, then move to the functioning battery. Make sure the clamp firmly attaches to the terminal.

Step 7: Negative to Ground and Negative to Negative

Read this step twice, as it is vitally important. 

First, connect the negative to ground for the dead car battery. In other words, clamp the negative (often black) cable to an unpainted metal surface in your vehicle—usually the car frame (or chassis). Do not connect it to the negative battery terminal.

Next, connect the negative (-) clamp to the functioning car battery’s negative (-) terminal. Again, avoid any tugging or pulling of the cable. If it cannot comfortably reach, the cars are too far away. 

Why not connect to the negative battery terminal of the dead car battery? When a car battery charges, it can release hydrogen gas (which is why this only matters for the dead car battery). Any tiny spark from the jump-starting process can ignite the hydrogen gas, causing a dangerous explosion. This hazard commonly occurs as drivers remove the cables. You can remove the negative cable without risking a spark if it is connected to the grounded metal instead of the battery. Moreover, once you remove the ground cable, you break the connection—substantially reducing any chance of sparking. 

Step 8: Start the Functioning Vehicle

Now it is time to start charging your battery. Turn on the functioning vehicle so that it can begin transferring a charge. It might take several minutes to charge, though revving the donor vehicle’s engine a few times can help speed up this process. 

Step 9: Try Starting Your Engine

After a few minutes, try starting up your hybrid vehicle. If it doesn’t work, give it a little more time before you try again.

If your battery still doesn’t start after a few tries, you likely have a deeper vehicle issue that requires a tow. There is also a chance that the cables are not properly set up or working. You can troubleshoot this issue by trying with a different donor vehicle or a different set of cables. You can also call a local mechanic to talk through your connection and ensure everything is set up correctly.

Step 10: Carefully Disconnect the Cables

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the cables in the reverse order of connection:

• First, disconnect the ground cable clamp
• Next, remove the negative clamp from the donor battery
• Then, disconnect the positive clamp from your car battery
• Finally, remove the positive clamp from the donor battery

Step 11: Take Your Vehicle For a Spin

Jump-starting a car is quite an adventure! You are probably eager to drive straight home and take a break. You might also be anxious to get to school, work, or onto your next adventure. However, we recommend taking the scenic route to wherever you are going. Your alternator recharges your battery as you drive. The longer you drive, the less likely you will have to do this all over again the next time you get behind the wheel. 

In many cases, a jump-started boost will not last long—even with a health charge from your alternator. So try to visit your local mechanic as soon as conveniently possible. Here is our complete guide on when to replace your dead car battery. 

Hybrid Car Care at Chapel Hill Tire

Hybrid vehicles are one of our many specialties here at Chapel Hill Tire. In fact, all of our extended service free loaner cars are hybrids. So you know your vehicle is in good hands when you bring it to our local mechanics. Our experts proudly offer hybrid battery maintenance and replacement services. 

Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves the hybrid car care needs of the greater Triangle area through our ten esteemed locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!