Category: Resource

Your vehicle requires maintenance to stay in good working condition. Some services are recommended but are not necessary—like AC repair and car wash/detailing services. These types of services can provide comfort and help your vehicle last longer, but it is not critical you complete them right away. Other services, like oil changes and tire alignments, are absolutely essential to the immediate health of your vehicle. So what makes tire alignment so important? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight. 

1: Keeping You Safe on the Road

Your tires are vital in helping you steer, handle, and stop your vehicle. However, when your tires are not aligned properly, they will begin to wear rapidly and unevenly—impacting their ability to help you control your vehicle. Such tire issues can lead to accidents or prevent your ability to manage driving challenges like inclement weather. 

Additionally, healthy wheels default to pointing straight ahead, while misaligned wheels are known to naturally veer to one side. A key sign of alignment trouble is when your vehicle pulls while driving rather than guiding you straight ahead. If you lose your grip on the steering wheel for even a moment, misaligned tires can begin leading you into oncoming traffic.

2: Protecting Your Tires

Healthy wheels will allow your tires to evenly distribute the weight of your vehicle. However, when bumps in the road throw off your alignment, it will also disrupt this weight distribution. As such, alignment troubles can cause certain tires or tire elements to experience extra friction. The friction will wear away at your tire tread rapidly, requiring you to replace one or more of your tires.  

3: Passing Your Inspections

Healthy tires are required to pass your NC safety inspection and emissions inspection. As mentioned above, alignment troubles can lead to accelerated and uneven tire wear. In these cases, you will need an alignment and tire replacement before passing your inspections and renewing your registration. You can read our guide to everything checked during the annual NC safety inspection here. 

4: Protecting Your Wallet

You might wonder, “Do I really need an alignment service?” Some drivers try to save money by passing on this service when your mechanic recommends it. However, you will end up paying much more long-term by skipping your wheel alignment. In these cases, you can end up paying for an alignment service AND new tires—as well as any additional care you might need to overcome service neglect. 

5: Preventing Further Issues

Misaligned tires can cause a ripple effect that will begin impacting other vehicle elements. For example, your steering wheel might start to shake as your suspension system struggles. In addition, worn tires can leave your rims more vulnerable to scratches and bends. To prevent further issues, it is best to get your vehicle serviced at the first sign of an issue. 

Car Alignment Service Near Me | Chapel Hill Tire 

If you are wondering whether or not you need an alignment, visit Chapel Hill Tire for a FREE alignment inspection. Our local mechanics have you covered when you need an alignment service, tire replacement, or any other vehice maintenance. We offer all of the services you need to Drive Happy. 

Our car care experts proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Cary, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. You can make an appointment, browse our coupons, or give Chapel Hill Tire a call to get started today! 

When the time comes to renew your registration, you might begin to worry about your annual inspections. One particular point of confusion is the emissions inspection because it is not required for all vehicles. The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with some information and an FAQ that will help you determine whether or not you need an emissions inspection. 

Your North Carolina County

Emissions Inspection Question 1: Is your vehicle registered in one of the 22 NC counties that require an emissions inspection? 

If so, you might need this routine inspection each year. Emissions inspections are only currently required in the following counties: 

• Alamance
• Buncombe
• Cabarrus
• Cumberland
• Davidson
• Durham
• Forsyth
• Franklin
• Gaston
• Guilford
• Iredell
• Johnston
• Lee
• Lincoln
• Mecklenburg
• New Hanover
• Onslow
• Randolph
• Rockingham
• Rowan
• Wake
• Union

You are immediately exempt from the emissions inspection if your vehicle is registered in one of the other 70+ NC counties. 

Newer Vehicles

Emissions Inspection Question 2: Is your vehicle more than 3 years old?

New vehicles undergo inspections before hitting the sales lot. These vehicles are also at a low risk for emissions issues. As such, the three newest model years of a vehicle are exempt from emissions inspections. 

Older Vehicles

Emissions Inspection Question 3: Is your vehicle less than 20 years old?

Emissions standards are increasingly challenging to meet for older vehicles. Resultingly, classic cars (20 years and older) are exempt from emissions inspections in North Carolina. 

Your Car’s Mileage

Emissions Inspection Question 4: Does your vehicle have 70,000 miles or more on the odometer? 

Low mileage is typically associated with low emissions. As such, vehicles with less than 70 thousand miles on the odometer are exempt from this inspection. 

Fuel Type

Emissions Inspection Question 5: Does your engine run on gasoline? 

Diesel-powered and electric vehicles are exempt from emissions inspections. However, all gasoline-powered vehicles—including hybrids—can qualify for the emissions inspection. 

Vehicle Weight

Emissions Inspection Question 6: Do you have a light-duty vehicle?

Only light-duty vehicles (less than 8,501 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)) require emissions inspections, while medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles are automatically exempt. You can find your GVWR in the tire information panel. You can read our guide (with pictures) here. 

The Verdict: Do I Need an Emissions Inspection?

If you answered yes to all of the questions above, you will likely need to get an emissions inspection to renew your registration. The only other emissions inspection exemptions apply to:

• Farm vehicles
• Motorcycles
• Recreational vehicles (RVs)
• Motor homes

If you are still unsure whether your vehicle requires an NC emissions inspection, speak with a local mechanic for insight. 

What Does It Mean To Be Exempt From The Emissions Inspection? 

Exempt vehicles can renew their registration without taking or passing the NC emissions inspection. However, these vehicles are not entirely off the hook for their emissions. All cars on the road require a safety inspection before renewing their registration. Elements of the vehicle emissions system are checked for tampering during the safety inspection. You can read more details in our guide to everything checked during an NC safety inspection. 

Chapel Hill Tire: Emissions Inspection Near Me

Chapel Hill Tire has you covered if you need an emissions inspection in the Triangle. Our professionals deliver leading safety and emissions inspections—ensuring you can renew your registration. If anything causes you to fail your inspection, our mechanics can deliver the services you need to pass. Chapel Hill Tire boasts 9 impressive locations across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make an appointment online, browse our promotions, or give us a call to get started today!

Many drivers mistakenly believe the cold weather is to blame for their car battery troubles; however, it is really the summer heat that damages your battery. Our local mechanics are here with 6 ways to tell if the summer heat is taking its toll on your battery. 

Why Do Car Batteries Die in the Summer?

Before we dive in, you might be wondering why car batteries suffer in the summer. Let’s take a closer look. 

When the temperatures start rising, your car battery will feel the heat. The standard car battery contains lead plates combined with other metals and materials, activated and maintained by an electrolyte-filled mixture of water and sulfuric acid. The high summer temps can begin to overheat the liquid mixture and throw off the chemical balance of your battery. Let’s take a closer look at what the heat does to hurt your car’s battery: 

• Corrosion: High heat and moisture can create corrosion on your battery’s metal components. These corroded elements will not function as they should for your engine.
• Internal evaporation: Your car battery is filled with liquid (typically the water and sulfuric acid mixture mentioned above). In the summer, the engine’s naturally high heat will be accelerated by the outside temperatures. This can cause internal evaporation—leaving your battery without the fluid it needs to operate.
• Sulfation: As you drive your car, your alternator will recharge your battery. During this process, trivial amounts of lead sulfate will stick to your battery’s lead plates in a process known as sulfation. Sulfation leads to the gradual decline of most batteries (which is why you need a new one every few years). However, extreme temperatures can cause lead sulfur to accumulate rapidly on your battery’s lead plates, creating a lower battery life expectancy. 
• Overcharged batteries: High temperatures can also lead to battery overcharging. While it might sound like a good thing, the overcharging process can cause overheating and other issues that lead to premature battery failure.

Now, let’s explore the 6 signs you can look for to determine if the summer heat is killing your car battery. 

1) Corrosion on Car Battery Terminal Ends

Heat, evaporation, and moisture together create a perfect storm for car batteries. Particularly, you will notice the metal terminal ends begin to corrode. If you catch this issue early, you might be able to get by with a cleaning or replacement service for your terminal ends—rather than a full battery replacement. 

2) Battery Dashboard Light

If you notice your battery dashboard light come on, it could indicate that your battery is overheating. However, it is important to note that several other issues could cause this light to come on. For example, it might be indicating an issue with your alternator. In other cases, the battery light might come on when you hit a routine suggested battery replacement service. You can have a mechanic read the dashboard light to diagnose the exact nature of your battery troubles. 

3) Warped, Bumpy, Swollen, or Bulging Battery

As mentioned above, high temps can bring your battery fluid to a boil. The heat can also make the components of your battery more malleable. As the boiling pressure begins to build, it can cause your battery to bulge, swell, or warp. This problem is even worse if your battery is overcharged from the heat. In these cases, you will likely need an immediate replacement service. 

4) Struggling to Start

Naturally, a battery that is struggling to start is on its way out. If you notice your car battery working well in certain temperatures but struggling slightly more in the heat, that is a sign the high temps are to blame. You can read our guide to the signs you need a new car battery here. 

5) How To Prevent Car Battery Damage in the Heat

Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to help protect your car battery from the heat. Look for a shady parking spot or try parking in a covered garage, when possible. If not an option, you can buy a car cover that will help reflect the heat away from your car. Not only will this help protect your battery and your engine, but it can also help keep your car feeling comfortable when you are ready to drive. 

6) Expert Insight

If you are still unsure about your car battery, bring it to a local mechanic. Your car care professional will be able to tell you if it is the heat causing your battery troubles or another issue. Once they uncover the underlying problem, a mechanic can deliver the repair, replacement, or service you need. 

Battery Replacement Near Me | Chapel Hill Tire

If you need a new car battery, the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. We proudly offer industry-leading battery replacement services in the greater Triangle area with locations across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, & Durham. Our professional mechanics also serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Cary, 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!

Every driver wants a high resale value when they are ready to trade in their car. One of the easiest ways to preserve your car’s value is to give it thorough ongoing care. While this naturally includes regular oil changes and other routine services, this preservation also extends to detailing services. Our local car care experts are here with insight on how regular car wash and detailing services can help your car hold its value. 

Keeping the Interior Fabric Preserved

Your car’s interior is prone to staining, scratching, and lasting odors that can tank its value. Fabric interior is more prone to these issues, while leather interior is more costly to repair and replace. Car detailing services offer a two-fold solution to protect your interior:

• First, detailing professionals will vacuum out abrasive crumbs, sand, and debris that can slowly wear away at your interior.
• Next, they will condition your leather interior to keep it safeguarded against preventable damage. 

Preventing Certain Technical Failures

Sticking dashboard buttons, failing USB charging ports, and faulty switches: all these issues can stem from crumbs, dust, and debris floating around your car. While it might seem like you need a simple vacuum job, these particles can get wedged deep within your dashboard and interior. An occasional interior detailing service is the only way to prevent these annoying and costly technical issues.

Protecting the Paint Job

Your car’s paint job can face corrosion and deterioration caused by tree sap, pollen, and other harmful chemicals. Car wash and detailing services offer several solutions to these common problems:

• First, car wash professionals will clean away sap, pollen, and other harmful sediments.
• Next, they will buff, wax, polish, and smooth out your exterior for a protective coating that will leave your car shining. 

How Much Can Detailing Services Save You?

While every vehicle and situation is different, let’s take a look at some rough estimates on how much money you could save with regular car wash and detailing services:

• A new car paint job: $300 – $4,000+
• New leather seats: $1,000 – $2,000+
• Fixing a failing USB port: $50 – $100+
• Dashboard replacement: $1,000 – $2,000+

All in all, regular detailing services could help your car hold $8,000+ in value. 

Here is a not-so-secret truth about your car’s interior and paint job: you are going to pay for it one way or another. You can invest in car detailing services, which leave you with a clean, attractive, and withstanding interior while maintaining your car’s value. Or, you can have even more money taken out of your pocket in repairs and depreciation once it is time to sell. 

Every scratch, scuff, and stain will be scrutinized by the dealership and used as leverage for a lower price evaluation. Detailing services can pay off even more long-term and put more money back in your pocket—while offering the benefit of letting you enjoy a professionally cleaned car.

Chapel Hill Tire Car Wash and Detailing Services

You can now get your car washed and detailed while it is at the mechanic for routine services. Simply drop your car off at Chapel Hill Tire, and we will take care of the rest. Our newest offering makes it easier than ever to keep your car value preserved with regular car wash and detailing services. Our car wash and detailing packages are currently available at the following Chapel Hill Tire locations: 

• Fordham Blvd. Location in Chapel Hill
• West Franklin Location in Chapel Hill
• University Place Location in Chapel Hill
• Cole Park Plaza Location in Chapel Hill
• Durham – Woodcroft Shopping Center Location
• Carrboro Location
• Raleigh – Atlantic Ave. Location
• Raleigh – Crabtree Valley Mall Location
• Apex Location
• Cary Location

We invite you to make an appointment, browse our coupons, or give us a call to get started today! 

When it is time to buy new tires for your car, you might need to locate your tire specs. Thankfully, finding information about your car’s tires is incredibly easy. The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight. 

1) Tire Information Panel: The Easiest Way to Find Car Tire Size

What tire size should I get for my car? The easiest way to find your tire size is by checking your tire information panel. The tire size dimension information you are looking for is posted right inside your driver’s door. Simply open up your door and look at the frame of your car. There is a sticker placed by the manufacturer to give you all of the information you need about your tires—including the tire size dimensions and recommended tire pressure. 

The only time this information will be inaccurate is if you have had the wheels replaced with larger or smaller variants. Additionally, if a previous owner removed or damaged the tire information sticker, it might be unavailable to you. Thankfully, there are other ways to check your tire sizes. 

2) Reference Your Owner’s Manual

If you have a hard time finding your tire information panel, you can also check your owner’s manual for specific details about your tires. The index at the back can help you locate the section on your wheels and tires. Once you find this information, you should be able to view the full details of your tire sizing. 

3) Quick Online Search

If you can’t find your owner’s manual, you can also do a quick online search with your car’s model name, year, and trim level for the car specs. Of course, it is not safe to trust everything you read online. However, you can find reliable information by looking for resources published directly by the manufacturers—including insight on your recommended tire sizes. 

4) Your Tire DOT Number

Technically, the tire size you need is written on the side of your tires. While the DOT number on your tire does contain size information, it is perhaps the most complicated way to find these dimensions. The second set of characters after DOT is a code for your tire size. However, these codes are often different for every tire manufacturer. 

According to the Federal Register, the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) used to have a universal coding system for tire sizes. Unfortunately, this made it complicated for manufacturers to produce new tires, with each update requiring the NHTSA to update its code list. 

To make things easier for both the NHTSA and tire manufacturers, the DOT now lets manufacturers determine their own coding system for tire sizes. Now, you will need to locate both your tire’s DOT number and the coding system your tire manufacturer uses to translate these numbers. 

5) Ask Your Local Tire Experts

If all else fails, you can visit a local mechanic (as your first line of defense or a last resort) for insight. Naturally, your local mechanics can help you determine the tire size you need. 

They can also help you calculate any difference in tire sizes. For example, if you want to make your tires/wheels higher, lower, larger, or smaller, you need specific calculations to determine how these changes affect your center of gravity, RPM, and other vehicle functions. The best place to start is at your local tire shop. 

Local Tire Replacement and Services

When you are due for a new set of tires, you can buy them here online with the Tire Finder at Chapel Hill Tire. This tool will sort through available options—giving you a full catalog of tires compatible with your vehicle. You can then compare these tires by their pricing and features until you find the right ones for you. Once you find your perfect tires, you can buy them online and schedule your service to have them installed at your nearest Chapel Hill Tire. 

Our local mechanics proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Cary, 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!

Imagine dropping your car off for a routine oil change, tire service, or brake pad replacement and picking up a fully serviced AND detailed car. This is the reality with Chapel Hill Tire’s new car wash and detailing services. Our professionals can now help your car look as good as it feels. Let’s take a closer look at the new car wash and detailing services from Chapel Hill Tire. 

How Does It Work? Mechanic Car Wash and Detailing Experts

When you bring your car to the mechanic for service, you can now choose to have it returned fully washed and detailed. This is no regular car wash. This service offers a perfect way to preserve the value of your car, treat yourself to a car that feels brand new, or surprise a loved one. So, how does it work? You can get your car serviced and detailed with these 4 steps:

• Step 1) Make your appointment: You can add a car wash and detailing service to any of your traditional services—whether they are routine maintenance or repairs. Our car wash and detailing packages are also available as standalone services. 
• Step 2) Choose your appointment type: Would you like to drop your car off, enjoy a shuttle service, have us pick up/deliver your car, or seamlessly enjoy a mobile detailing service at your location? 
• Step 3) Leave your car with the experts at Chapel Hill Tire: Whether we pick it up or you drop it off, you can trust that your car is getting industry-leading service at Chapel Hill Tire,
• Step 4) Drive Happy in your newly washed and detailed car!

You can find the answers to other questions you might have in our car wash and detailing FAQ.

How Long Does Car Detailing Take?

As the name suggests, a thorough car cleaning service pays attention to the details. To get this job done right, our professionals will spend hours getting into every nook and cranny of your car. As such, this service is not one you will want to wait around in the lobby for. We recommend using our shuttle service, pick-up/delivery service, or planning other arrangements to make the most of your time. 

Our Team of Local Experts

Chapel Hill Tire is known for high standards in car care, and these same values apply to our car wash and detailing services. You might be surprised to hear that you can get your car washed at your local mechanic shop. While you might trust your car repair technician with vital vehicle service, you wouldn’t expect these same experts to be experienced in car wash and detailing service. Not to worry—we have hired a team of car wash and detailing professionals. As the newest members of the Chapel Hill Tire family, our car wash and detailing service experts are trained and experienced to deliver unmatched car cleaning care. 

Where are Car Wash and Detailing Services Available?

So where can you get a signature Chapel Hill Tire car wash? Our mechanic network offers car wash and detailing care at almost all of our locations: 

• Fordham Blvd. Location in Chapel Hill
• West Franklin Location in Chapel Hill
• University Place Location in Chapel Hill
• Cole Park Plaza Location in Chapel Hill
• Durham – Woodcroft Shopping Center Location
• Carrboro Location
• Raleigh – Atlantic Ave. Location
• Raleigh – Crabtree Valley Mall Location
• Apex Location
• Cary Location

Car Wash and Detailing Service Packages and Pricing

Chapel Hill Tire knows that a strong relationship with our clients is built on transparency. We offer full pricing information upfront so that you know what to expect with all of your services—including our detailing and car wash offerings. To meet every car’s unique needs, we have 4 different car comprehensive wash/detailing packages for you to choose from:

Premium Hand Wash

• Current pricing on our Services Page

The Premium Hand Wash package includes:

• Precision hand car wash and towel dry
• Thorough interior wipe-down of all surfaces and windows
• Comprehensive interior vacuuming
• Detailed cleaning of door and trunk jambs
• Wheel cleaning and tire shine

Comprehensive Detail with Wax

• Current pricing on our Services Page

The Comprehensive Detail with Wax package includes:

• Precision hand car wash and towel dry
• Thorough interior wipe-down of all surfaces and windows
• Comprehensive interior vacuuming
• Detailed cleaning of door and trunk jambs
• Wheel cleaning and tire shine
• Protective wax with expert hand polishing
• Upholstery and carpet shampooing
• Leather seat conditioning and restoration

Ultimate Sparkle

• Current pricing on our Services Page

The Ultimate Sparkle package includes:

• Precision hand car wash and towel dry
• Thorough interior wipe-down of all surfaces and windows
• Comprehensive interior vacuuming
• Detailed cleaning of door and trunk jambs
• Wheel cleaning and tire shine
• Protective wax with expert hand polishing
• Upholstery and carpet shampooing
• Leather seat conditioning and restoration
• Smooth out light scratches and enhance paint gloss
• Trim restoration

Mobile Car Wash and Detailing

Our car wash and detailing experts will come to you at no additional cost! Chapel Hill Tire’s mobile detailing service makes high-quality car care unbelievably easy. We will visit your home or business to complete your detailing service. Our mobile detailing experts will visit anywhere within our service areas.

This service is exclusively available through the Chapel Hill Tire app for Google, Android, and Apple smartphones. Download the app to book your mobile detail today, or add a detailing service to your next Chapel Hill Tire in-house appointment!

Chapel Hill Tire Car Wash and Detailing Service

Our local mechanics are your one-stop shop for all of your car care needs—now including car wash and detailing. These services can help preserve the value of your vehicle and leave you Driving Happy. 

Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Cary, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Cary, 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! 

During a season of dangerously high heat, your car’s air conditioning is essential. What happens when you find your AC blowing warm air? Or perhaps your system stops working altogether? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight on five reasons your car’s AC system is not working.

1) AC Settings

If your car is new (or you are switching it on for the first time this year), you might find yourself re-learning the AC controls. While it seems like it might be self-explanatory, every vehicle has a unique configuration of buttons and controls—some of which might defy your expectations. 

If you find your car’s air conditioning has stopped working, the first thing you should do is double-check your controls:

• The AC Button: Some cars require you to click an AC button to run your air conditioner. In these cases, even if you have the air turned on and set to the lowest possible temperatures, the air conditioning will not activate until you flip this switch. 
• Vents: Next, ensure that all vents are open and pointing in a direction you can feel. You can also double-check the settings to see which vents you have activated. If the air conditioning is turned on but only activated for the vents at your feet, you might not feel its effects as clearly as having them all turned on.
• Windshield Defrosting: If you have your front or rear windshield defrosters on, it can draw power away from your car’s central air conditioning system—or divert the airflow altogether. 

If all of these checks come back clear, you likely have an issue somewhere in your car’s air conditioning that needs service.

2) Low AC Freon

When your car’s air conditioning does stop working, the most common culprit is low freon. This refrigerant is responsible for extracting heat from the air when your AC is running. Without a sufficient supply of freon, the air conditioner will not effectively cool the air running through your car. 

3) Leaky Air Conditioning System

Drivers often believe that low freon requires a simple system recharge. However, your car’s air conditioner is a sealed system. While your oil and other engine fluids will need to be flushed, replenished, or replaced regularly—you should never need a refrigerant top-off. Low AC freon indicates a leak somewhere in your air conditioner. Until a mechanic finds and repairs the source of your leak, your low freon troubles will continue to arise. 

4) Too Much AC Refrigerant (Overcharged Car Air Conditioner)

Have you tried to fix your air conditioner yourself? These systems require a careful balance of the right kind of freon. When you throw off this balance by adding too much refrigerant, your car air conditioner can face several potential problems:

• Car AC Blowing Warm Air: If there is not enough room for your air conditioner to compress your freon into its gas state, it will not be able to perform its cooling functions, leading to warm air pushing through your vents. 
• AC System Damage: The extra pressure inside your system can cause costly leaks and breaks within your car’s air conditioner. 
• Car Performance and Engine Trouble: Most drivers know that air conditioning can contribute to your fuel usage. When your system is struggling to work because it has too much freon, it can draw even more power away from your engine—leading to poor performance or engine damage. 

As such, it is always best to leave air conditioning repairs to your local mechanics. 

5) Failing Component

Your car’s AC is a network of parts that work together to deliver effective air conditioning. When your AC stops working, it could mean a damaged part, such as the:

• Compressor
• Condenser
• Motor
• Evaporator
• Electrical connections

When one of these components stops working, you will notice its effects on your air conditioning performance. It is best to have your AC serviced as soon as possible. The more your AC tries to work through this damage, the more stress your system will face—which can potentially harm other air conditioning components. 

Chapel Hill Tire: Car AC Repair Near Me

For air conditioning repair you can trust, visit the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire. We can diagnose and repair your car’s AC troubles to get you feeling comfortable and Driving Happy. 

Our local mechanics proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Raleigh, Apex, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Carrboro. The Chapel Hill Tire mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Cary, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment, view our coupons, or give us a call to get started today!

Your car has ways of telling you when it needs service. One of the most unpleasant mediums of this communication is car odors. So what does it mean when your car smells bad? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.

1) Sulfur (Rotten Eggs) Car Smell: Failing Catalytic Converter

Does your car produce a pungent smell when you’re driving? This odor could signify an issue with your catalytic converter. The catalytic converter works to filter your exhaust. This vehicle component successfully translates harmful compounds (like hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide) into harmless compounds (like water vapor and carbon dioxide). 

The combustion of your car’s engine can produce sulfur dioxide, which drivers report as a horrible, strong rotten egg smell. When your catalytic converter is failing or stolen, it cannot filter these emissions—allowing the pungent sulfur dioxide smell to carry through your exhaust. You can read more in our guide to why catalytic converter theft is on the rise. 

2) Burning Oil Smell

If you smell burning oil in your car, there is likely a problem under the hood. This is often caused by skipping routine oil changes or maintenance fluid flushes. 

• Low Engine Oil: Naturally, burning oil odors are most commonly derived from low, deteriorating, and overheating engine oil. Getting your oil changed as soon as possible is essential to preventing costly engine damage.
• Car Overheating: When you smell burning car oil, check the temperature gauge. Is your car overheating? Overheating engines leave any internal component vulnerable to burning, including your engine oil. 
• Transmission: Your transmission fluid carries a similar smell when burning. In these cases, the burning oil smell could be a sign that your transmission is overheating. A transmission fluid flush can eliminate this odor and protect your transmission.

3) Car Smells Like Burning Rubber: Brakes, Tires, or Engine Components

If your car is putting off the smell of burning rubber, there are a few potential culprits to consider:

• Brakes: As your brake pads press against the brake rotor, it generates heat and friction. If you overwork your brakes (such as with intense, frequent braking), the heat and wear of your brake pads become intensified. In these cases, they may begin emitting the burning rubber smell—as most brake pads contain rubber particles. 
• Tires: Similarly, the rubber of your tires can create heat and friction against the pavement. Especially after rough driving, accelerated tire wear can also emit a burning rubber smell.
• Engine: Your engine is filled with rubber belts, hoses, and other components. Any of these parts can be prone to failure—resulting in this burnt smell. 

4) Sweet Maple Syrup: Failing Radiator 

What about when your car smells sickly sweet? Perhaps you are smelling burning maple syrup or butterscotch pudding? This car odor often indicates a failing radiator. Your radiator fluid is composed of ethylene glycol—a product chemically similar to the compounds of the simple sugar glucose. In fact, researchers have found ways to convert sugar into ethylene glycol. 

When your radiator is due for service, it can begin burning this radiator fluid. As ethylene glycol burns, it produces that signature sickly sweet smell. In these cases, visit a mechanic as soon as possible for radiator service. 

5) Internal Car Smells

The most common source of car smell is not from your car at all; spilling, dropping, or forgetting something stinky in your vehicle can leave a lingering odor. If caught early enough, you may be able to eliminate car smells with a simple cleaning. However, set-in odors require a professional car detailing service. 

Chapel Hill Tire Car Service Near Me

Is your car producing unusual or unpleasant odors? If so, bring it to the local mechanics as quickly as possible for service. Addressing the issue early can prevent more costly and significant damage from occurring. If you don’t have time to visit a mechanic, we will come to you with our pick-up and delivery service. 

Chapel Hill Tire’s local mechanics proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Durham, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. Our local automotive technicians also commonly serve nearby communities, including Knightdale, Cary, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make your appointment, browse our coupons, or give us a call to get started today!

From your dashboard warning lights to your tread wear indicator bars—your car has clever ways of telling you when it needs service. Here is one less commonly-known device: the brake wear indicator. Your local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.

A Quick Guide to Brake Wear Indicators

So what exactly are brake wear indicators? Brake wear indicators (also known as squealers) are elements of your brake pads designed to squeak once the layers of your brake pads are worn out. 

Yes, you read that right. Drivers are often surprised to learn that their squeaky brakes are designed to sound that way. Effective braking is vital to staying safe on the road (and passing your inspection). Brake wear indicators are one way your car lets you know that your brake pads are becoming dangerously low.

How Do Brake Pad Indicators Work?

So how do these brake wear indicators work? The squealers are metal tabs that protrude to the safe level of brake pad thickness. These elements can be found on the side of your brake pads (as in the picture above) or embedded within the friction material. 

Once your brake pads dip below the safe levels of thickness, this metal squealer will come in contact with your metal rotor—creating loud grinding, scraping, or (as you might have guessed) squeaking sounds. 

Let’s Take a Closer Look at Squeaky Brakes

When your brakes become squeaky, it is often a result of your brake pad wear indicators going to work—letting you know you are due for a replacement. However, there are a few other potential reasons why your brakes might be squeaking:

1) Rusty Brakes

If your car has been dormant during periods of rain, moisture, or humidity, your braking system may be a little rusty. Usually, squeaking noises caused by rust will wear away after driving your vehicle for a bit.

2) Metallic Brake Pads

As vehicles become larger and heavier, they require more braking strength. Some newer brake pads provide this extra reinforcement using metallic or semi-metallic friction material. With a metallic composition of up to 70%, these brake pads can naturally make squeaky sounds when braking. While it might be unpleasant to hear, these cases of squeaky brakes are no cause for concern. 

3) Debris in Brakes

Twigs, mud, and debris can get wedged between your rotors and brake pads—causing squeaking and other unusual sounds. While this is less common, a routine brake check-up will reveal and clear any debris. 

4) Calipers Sticking

Sticky calipers are another potential culprit of squeaky brakes. If your squeaky brakes are paired with unusual brake functioning, visit a mechanic as soon as possible. One signature sign of sticky calipers is when a vehicle pulls to one side while braking. While it is especially uncommon, this is the most severe cause of squeaky brakes. 

If you are unsure of the source of your squeaky brakes, bring your car to a local mechanic. Better yet—you can also have our mechanics come to you with our pick-up and delivery service. 

Chapel Hill Tire: Brake Pad Replacement Services Near Me

When you find your brakes squeaking, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire can help. We offer comprehensive brake services, including brake inspections, brake pad replacements, braking fluid flushes, rotor replacement, caliper services, and so many others. Our professionals are here to get you in, out, and Driving Happy on the road. 

Chapel Hill Tire is a network of mechanics locations across the greater Triangle area—with 9 shops across Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Carrboro. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve nearby areas, including Knightdale, Cary, 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! 

Catalytic converter theft is ballooning, with insurance companies like State Farm reporting a more than 200% increase in claims. (If you need help catching up to speed on this issue, you can also read our guide here on everything you need to know about catalytic converter theft.) So why is catalytic converter theft so common? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight. 

1) War in Ukraine

While devastating in so many different ways across the globe, it is worth noting here that the war in Ukraine is also contributing to the rise in catalytic converter theft. Catalytic converters contain precious metals like platinum. According to WorldAtlas, Russia is the second-highest platinum source in the world. Sanctions, war efforts, and other natural market effects from the war have been disrupting the availability of this metal. As such, they have become more valuable—providing additional incentives for theft. 

2) Higher Crime in the Summer Months

It has long been reported by the US Department of Justice that theft rises during the summer months. While the Bureau of Justice Statistics does not provide reasoning, this rise in crime could relate to several factors:

• Increased Opportunity: People are more active during the summer, providing extra opportunities for crime. For example, what happens when you leave your car behind as you head out on vacation? It could be an easier target for catalytic converter theft. Additionally, the seasonality of some school and work schedules may lead to more free time during the summer months. 
• Higher Payouts: Markets tend to raise prices during warmer months as people are more active and product demand increases. As mentioned above, higher prices mean more incentive to steal.

3) Car Market Bubble

Supply chain disruptions continue to cause a shortage in the new car market. This has raised the value of used cars. With this, it is natural that the car service industry has also started to inflate. As consumers fix up older cars to wait out the market bubble or make the most of their higher value, car part demand is rising. One common source of trouble for used cars is catalytic converters.

Catalytic converters can fail naturally over time. However, catalytic converter theft is a rampant issue—creating a vicious cycle for drivers:

• Catalytic converters are stolen.
• More cars need catalytic converters to replace their stolen ones. 
• The demand shifts, so the price of catalytic converters rises.
• As the price rises, theft is further motivated. 

4) Economic Hardships

Financial and economic stress could be contributing to increased catalytic converter theft. Not only does it raise the payouts and incentives for stolen metals, but it can also increase the number of people desperate for income. As such, more individuals may turn to theft. 

5) Increase in Eco-Friendly Vehicles

The automotive industry is in a race toward environmental protection. One way these companies lower emissions is with larger catalytic converters and more precious metals. Naturally, this also raises the payout of catalytic converter theft and further motivates this crime. 

Catalytic Converter Replacement and Protection Near Me

Thankfully for drivers, catalytic converter theft is often covered by insurance. Simply bring your vehicle to the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire for a catalytic converter replacement. We can also prevent catalytic converter theft by installing a Cat Security protective device. 

You can access these mechanic services at any of our 9 Triangle-area locations within Raleigh, Apex, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make your appointment here online, browse our deals, or give us a call to get started today!