Category: Resource

As the weather cools down, you might find your car struggling to start. How do you jump-start a car battery? Is it safe? Can jump-starting another battery drain your own? The mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to answer all of your questions about batteries. 

Why Do So Many Car Batteries Die in the Winter?

Before we dive in, you might be wondering why your car battery gave out. So why do car batteries die in the winter? 

• Oil troubles: Engine oil moves more slowly at cold temperatures, which will require an extra surge of power from your battery. This issue is especially troubling if you are due for an oil change. 
• Depleted charge: The “charge” in your car battery is maintained by an electrochemical reaction. The colder weather slows down this process—which drops some of your battery’s power. 
• Summer battery damage: While the cold winter weather will slow down your battery, it will not damage your battery. The summer heat, on the other hand, can cause some structural battery damage. This damage will leave your battery unable to fight the effects of the cold weather. 

You can prevent damage to your battery by parking in the garage. Batteries also die simply because they are due for a replacement. Even in ideal conditions, your car battery will need to be replaced every 3-4 years. 

Is It Safe to Jump-Start a Dead Car Battery?

If you follow all safety precautions, jumping a dead car battery is completely safe. Here is a look at some of the safety measures you should follow:

• Make sure both cars are turned off when connecting the jumper cables.
• Always connect the cables to the dead battery first.
• Once there is power running through the cables, take precautions when handling them. Do not touch the two ends of the cables together.
• Do not touch the two vehicles together. 
• Every vehicle and engine is unique. To ensure your safety and the safety of your vehicle, please read and follow all jump-starting instructions in your owner’s manual. 
• If you feel unsafe using jumper cables, consider investing in a jump-starter pack. 

So how do you jump-start a car battery? Chapel Hill Tire has a full 8 step guide here.

Do I Need a New Car Battery?

A drained car battery is different from a dead car battery. For example, if you leave your headlights on overnight, it might drain even a new car battery. However, a simple jump-start will be enough to get you going. As you drive, your healthy battery will regain and keep this charge.  

Conversely, once a battery has gone bad, it will require a battery replacement service. Worn, old, and corroded car batteries will not hold a charge. Rather, you should bring it straight to a mechanic after your jump-start. How can you tell if your battery has gone bad?

• Did it die on its own? If so, it has likely gone bad. Otherwise, if you notice a light or another factor that drained your car battery, you might still be okay. 
• Is your battery older? Car batteries will require replacement roughly every 3 years. 
• Do you notice corrosion on your car battery? This indicates battery deterioration. 

When none of these situations may apply to you, your alternator or starting system could be the problem. While it is rare, you may also have gotten a “lemon” battery replacement. In these cases, an experienced mechanic can help find and repair the source of your troubles. 

Is Jump-Starting a Battery Bad for Your Car?

So what about your car when jump-starting another battery? This process will put slight stress on your battery and alternator. However, in most cases, this process is harmless. A healthy battery will be unfazed by the jump-start, and your battery will recharge as you drive. 

However, If done improperly, jump-starting another car can pose some risks for your vehicle. You will want to ensure your car is about the same size as the other vehicle. Too much of a power surge can impact the other car’s electrical system. Meanwhile, not enough power will strain your charge without successfully jump-starting the other car. You will also want to ensure that you follow all of the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual. 

Chapel Hill Tire Battery Replacement Services

When you are due for a new car battery, the professionals at Chapel Hill Tire have you covered. We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Raleigh, Apex, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. You can make your appointment here online or give us a call to get started today!

When you switch to a hybrid car, you might feel like everything you used to know about car care has changed. There are some similarities and differences when it comes to hybrid maintenance. The mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with a guide to the service your hybrid vehicle needs.

Hybrid Battery Maintenance and Services

Hybrid vehicle batteries are much larger and more complex than standard automotive batteries. As such, it is especially important that you provide the care it needs. Here are some tips on maintenance and care for hybrid batteries:

• Keep your hybrid parked in the garage to protect the battery from the summer heat and winter chills.
• Have a professional clean your battery to remove debris and corrosion.
• Hybrid batteries last much longer than standard car batteries. They are often warrantied to last between 5 to 10 years, depending on your manufacturer. However, when your battery begins to fail, you will need a hybrid battery repair or replacement from an experienced hybrid professional.

Inverter Tune-Ups for Hybrids

The inverter is the “brain” of your hybrid vehicle. Hybrids store the energy generated by your braking system in a DC (direct current) battery. Your inverter converts this into AC (alternating current) energy to power your vehicle. This process generates a lot of heat, which the inverter’s cooling system works to neutralize. As such, the inverter system may require routine coolant flushes, among other repair or replacement services.

Transmission Fluid Service and Transmission Repairs

Transmissions are responsible for moving power from your hybrid’s engine to the wheels. Different brands of hybrid vehicles collect and distribute power differently, which means there are a few different transmissions on the market. Depending on your transmission type and manufacturer recommendations, you may require regular transmission fluid flushes. It is essential to visit a mechanic experienced in hybrid vehicles for transmission checks, services, and repairs. 

Hybrid Tire Services

Tire needs are standard across hybrid, electric, and standard vehicles. Here is a look at some of the services your hybrid may need:

• Tire rotation: To keep your tires protected and wearing evenly, your hybrid tires will require regular rotations.
• Wheel alignment: When your alignment is skewed, it can cause a wide range of tire and vehicle troubles. Your hybrid will require as-needed alignment services. 
• Tire replacement: Every tire has a limited lifespan. When your hybrid vehicle tires become worn or old, they will need to be replaced. 
• Tire patching: Most drivers will inevitably find a nail in their tire at some point. Assuming the tie is overall in good condition, this will require a patching service. 
• Inflation services: Low tire pressure can cause added stress to your hybrid engine, tires, and battery. 

Service and Maintenance Benefits of Hybrid Cars

Too often, hybrid vehicles are given a bad reputation for their service and repair requirements. However, with the right professionals on your side, these services are easy and affordable. Additionally, there are several areas of maintenance where hybrid vehicles require less care than standard cars:

• Frequent battery replacement: Most vehicles require a new battery roughly every three years. Hybrid batteries are much larger and more sustainable. As such, they require very few replacements.
• Frequent braking system maintenance: When you slow or stop a standard vehicle, the friction and power are absorbed by the braking system. As such, standard vehicles require frequent brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid flush, and other services. However, regenerative braking absorbs this power and uses it to fuel the vehicle’s movements. As such, they do not require frequent brake pad replacements.
• Oil change routine differences: Hybrid vehicles do still require oil changes. However, when you are driving at low speeds, the hybrid’s battery will kick in and give your engine a break. As such, the engine will not require as frequent oil changes. 

Service needs, recommendations, and routines will vary by vehicle and manufacture. Driving patterns and road conditions can also impact your ideal maintenance requirements. You can find the exact service schedule for your vehicle in your owner’s manual. A professional mechanic can also take a look under the hood to tell you which hybrid services you may need.

Chapel Hill Tire Hybrid Services

If you need hybrid vehicle service in the greater Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire is here for you. We have nine locations across Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. Our mechanics will also come to you! We serve drivers in nearby cities as well with service areas extending to Cary, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond! We invite you to make your appointment to get started today!

Like most mechanics and auto technicians, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire recommend looking over your tires once a month to ensure they look healthy. On occasion, drivers will find that one of their tires has suddenly gone bald of tread. What causes this strange tire phenomenon? Here is a look at 7 possible problems you might be experiencing. 

Problem 1: Wheel Alignment Issues

Ideally, your tires are all angled correctly to evenly meet the road. Over time, bumps in the road can throw off the alignment of one or more of your wheels. Naturally, this will cause disproportionate wear to the misaligned tire(s). Your wheel will face rolling resistance and additional friction on the road—causing it to quickly go bald.

While all tires are subject to alignment troubles, this most often impacts the front right tire and front left tire. Alignment troubles are the most common problem for drivers who find just one of their tires worn out. Thankfully, the solution here is simple: wheel alignment service. 

Problem 2: Skipped Tire Rotations

If you find one (or both) of your front tires worn out, you might think back to the last time you had your tires rotated. In general, your front tires will wear faster than your rear tires. Why?

• Weight: Your front tires often bear more weight than your rear tires because of the engine placement. 
• Steering and turning: Most cars have front-wheel drive (FWD)—meaning only the front wheels turn to steer your car. Turning results in additional friction against the road. 
• Road hazards: Drivers have a little more time to correct their steering for back tires when encountering potholes and other road hazards. 

This is why tire manufacturers recommend regular tire rotations. Tire rotations help your tires wear evenly by ensuring they balance out the impact of road and driving hazards. 

Problem 3: Mis-Matched Tires

Every tire brand works to make unique tires. Unfortunately, some tire brands are known to last longer than others. The tread patterns, rubber composition, threading, age, and so many other factors contribute to a tire’s lifespan. In some cases, mismatched tires will not create any problems. In other cases, it could potentially contribute to tires wearing at different rates.

Problem 4: Inflation Differences

Proper tire inflation is vital to your tire health. If one of your tires is running with low tire pressure, it can quickly cause structural damage. We commonly see this problem when there is an undetected nail in the tire. Overinflation can also cause uneven tire tread wear. You can check your tire information panel on the frame of your car near your driver’s seat to ensure your tires stay inflated to the ideal PSI. Alternatively, there are easy ways to score free tire pressure refills at your local mechanic shop.

Problem 5: Used Tire Inconsistencies

If you buy your tires used, you never truly know what you are getting or the exact history of each tire. One of them might have older rubber, prior damage, or a compromised structure. As such, buying used could be the reason one of your tires has worn more quickly than the others.

Problem 6: Driving Factors

On occasion, a tire problem has nothing to do with the tire. Are the roads in your area uneven and bumpy? Perhaps you hit the same unavoidable potholes each day? Driving habits, road conditions, and other factors specific to your situation can impact your tire health. These conditions may also lead to one tire wearing faster than the others—especially without proper rotations. 

Problem 7: Tire Age Differences

The age of a tire’s rubber heavily affects how it drives, how it wears, and how safe it is on the road. If one of your tires is older than the rest, it will likely wear early. You can find our full guide to tire age here. 

Should You Replace All the Tires or Just the One?

If you catch tire wear early, you may be able to avoid replacement. However, if one of your tires is disproportionately worn out, it will need to be replaced during your service visit. In these cases, some drivers opt to have all four tires replaced if they are getting old or nearing replacement. This will help keep all of the tires on the same routine. It also avoids issues with newer tire tread gripping harder than the others. 

Conversely, you can often save money by replacing just the single worn-out tire. This is especially true if your three remaining tires are in good shape. However, it is essential to find a tire with a similar composition and tread pattern. If possible, match your new tire to the brand of your remaining tires to avoid any problems. Thankfully, this is easy to do when you buy your new tires online.

Chapel Hill Tire Alignment and Tire Services

If you find that one of your tires has gone bald, the professionals at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help. We offer tire alignment, balancing, inflation, replacement, and other mechanic services. If you don’t have time to visit one of your 9 Triangle-area locations, we will come to you with our suite of convenient car care services. Best of all, you can get the lowest possible prices on your new tires with our Price Beat Guarantee. Our local auto mechanics invite you to make your appointment here online, review our coupon page, or give us a call to get started today!

As some of the newest and most innovative vehicles on the road, Teslas can leave drivers with a lot of questions once something goes wrong. We often have drivers ask:

• Can my flat Tesla tire be patched?
• How do you patch Tesla tires?
• What makes Tesla tires different?

The professional mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to answer all of your questions about Tesla tire repair. 

Can You Patch a Tesla Tire?

The short answer is yes—most punctured Tesla tires can be patched. In their early stages, Tesla tires could not be patched because of a foam layer lining the inside of the rubber to provide a smooth, quiet ride. This feature would turn the smallest punctures into large repairs. However, local Tesla service professionals can now complete patches for Tesla tires with minimal damage. If your tire has a severe slash or damage, it will require replacement. 

Tubeless Tesla Tires: Information on Punctured Tires

Tesla tires are tubeless, which means that they may not leak when punctured. It is best, in these cases, to leave the nail in your tire until it can be patched. Tesla recommends not driving on a punctured tire, even if it is still full of air, as they can deflate suddenly at any moment. 

How to Patch Tesla Tires

So how do mechanics like those at Chapel Hill Tire repair Tesla tires? They begin by removing the punctured object. Next, they carefully scrape away the foam layer to make room for the repair. Then, our mechanics can patch the puncture in your tire and refill it to the proper tire pressure.

How to Keep Tesla Tires Inflated

When it comes to flat tires and punctures, preventing damage should always be your first recourse. Here are a few ways that you can keep your Tesla tire inflated:

• Avoid Hazards on the Road: While it may not always be within your control, avoiding road hazards can significantly expand the lifespan of your tires. This includes driving carefully around potholes, debris, and more. If you live in an area with unavoidable hazards, you may consider investing in Road Hazard Tire Protection. 
• Tire Pressure Settings: Maintaining proper tire pressure is key to keeping your tires protected. At the time of publication, Tesla recommends keeping your tires inflated to the pressure recommended on your tire information panel—even if it differs from the recommendations printed on your Tesla tire. 
• Careful Driving: Do not drive on a compromised or flat tire. This risks making the damage substantially worse. If you must drive, be sure to do so carefully, safely, and slowly. 

Chapel Hill Tire Tesla Service in the Triangle

If you need local Tesla service, the mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with support. Our local mechanics have experience patching and repairing Tesla tires. We also provide new Michelin and Continental tires for Tesla vehicles at the lowest price—guaranteed. Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves the greater Triangle area with 9 locations across Raleigh, Apex, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. You can make your appointment here online, explore our coupon page, or give us a call to get started today!

Car problems always seem to strike at the worst possible time—which leaves drivers struggling to visit a mechanic. All too often, vehicles go without vital services because drivers have to prioritize work, family, and other life happenings. Chapel Hill Tire now offers a better way to get the auto repair and maintenance services you need. When you are unable to visit a mechanic, our auto repair pickup & delivery car care solutions can help. Here is a closer look at remote vehicle services from the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire.  

Pick-Up and Delivery Mechanic Services

Mobile car care makes vehicle service accessible. Whether you are too busy for a mechanic visit or you simply enjoy the convenience, this service is for you. Let’s take a look at how pick-up and delivery mechanic service works: 

• First, the Chapel Hill Tire experts will visit your home or work to pick up your vehicle. 
• Next, we take it back to the shop and give it the care it needs. 
• Along the way, we will update you via text so you know the status of your services. 
• Once it is ready to go, we will bring your car back to you, fully serviced. 

It’s that simple. You may have questions about the service, and our professionals have the answers. Here is a quick FAQ about home pickup & delivery mechanic service. 

Is Mobile Car Care Safe?

If anyone can drive on thin brake pads, a shaking steering wheel, or with a burnt-out bulb, it is your professional mechanics. In some cases, pick-up and delivery mechanics may even be able to help resolve technical issues preventing you from driving to the shop. For example, if you are stranded with a dead battery, our experts will give your car a jump to get it back for a replacement. However, if a vehicle is broken down or entirely unsafe to drive, it will need to be towed for service.

How Long Does Pick-Up and Delivery Service Take?

Pick-up and delivery times will depend on:

• Your appointment time
• The vehicle service(s) needed
• Driver availability

…and other varying factors. At Chapel Hill Tire, we update our drivers on their service progress via text, so you never have any questions about repair times. 

How Much Does Pick-Up and Delivery Service Cost?

With certain mechanic networks, convenience comes with a big price tag. Chapel Hill Tire is different. Our pick-up/delivery mechanic service comes with a modest concierge fee. Contact our team, or request an appointment, to learn our current rates.

Who Qualifies for Auto Repair Home Pickup & Delivery?

At Chapel Hill Tire, everyone within our service areas qualifies for free pick-up and delivery. This includes drivers in:

• Apex
• Raleigh, near Crabtree Valley Mall
• Hillsborough
• Raleigh, near Atlantic Avenue
• Carrboro
• Durham
• Wake Forest
• Knightdale
• Holly Springs
• Cary
• Pittsboro
• Morrisville
• Chapel Hill, near Cole Park Plaza
• Chapel Hill, near University Place
• Chapel Hill, near West Franklin Street
• Chapel Hill, near N. Fordham Blvd. 

Other Convenient Mechanic Services

If pick-up and delivery service does not sound right for you, there are other ways to make high-quality car care convenient. 

• Curbside service: When you choose curbside service, we will come to you at our curb for your vehicle check-in. When your vehicle is ready to go, the keys and your invoice will be in the car waiting for you. 
• Text updates: You will never have to wonder when your car will be ready to go with Chapel Hill Tire. We offer text updates to keep you informed so that you can plan accordingly.
• Shuttle service: Our experts will take you where you need to go—work, home, or a nearby shop—while your vehicle is serviced and pick you back up afterward. 
• Text to pay: Chapel Hill Tire gives you the option to pay by text so you can grab your keys and go once your vehicle is ready. 

Chapel Hill Tire Mobile Car Care Mechanic Services

You can have your vehicle serviced without ever leaving your seat with the Chapel Hill Tire pick-up and delivery service. We invite you to make your appointment here online or give us a call to start Driving Happy with us today!

There is perhaps no worse feeling than driving down the road and learning you have a flat tire. Bumps, potholes, rim damage, and standard tire wear can all lead to flats. One common question we get from customers—“Can I drive on a flat tire?” The professional mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.

Low Tire Pressure vs. Flat Tire: What is the Difference?

When you see your low tire pressure dashboard light come on, this could indicate a flat tire; however, it is more commonly a minor tire issue. So what is the difference between low tire pressure and a flat tire? 

• Flat tires: Flats are often fully deflated and require repair. This can happen if you have a large puncture, tire damage, or a bent rim. 
• Low tire pressure: When your tire inflation falls slightly beneath your recommended PSI, you have low tire pressure.  Low pressure could be caused by small punctures (such as a nail in your tire), standard air loss, wintery weather, and more. 

While neither of these car issues is ideal, flat tires are more severe iterations of low tire pressure. 

Can You Drive with Low Tire Pressure?

You may be asking, “Can I drive my car with low tire pressure?” Driving with low tire pressure is not ideal, but it is possible. Tires with low pressure will still move along, but they can come with a variety of negative side effects, including:

• Poor vehicle handling
• Rim damage
• Sidewall damage
• Poor fuel economy
• Increased chance of flat tires
• Excellerated tire tread wear

All that is to say, if you are driving with low tire pressure, you should be on your way to a mechanic for free tire inflation. Consider checking your tire pressure each month to ensure that it is not getting too low. Here is our quick guide on finding information about your tires—including recommended pressure.

Can You Drive with a Flat Tire?

The short answer is no—you cannot drive with a flat tire. While you might be tempted to “limp” your tire to the repair shop, you cannot drive with a flat tire. Driving on a flat can lead to all of the same issues listed above for low tire pressure—including vehicle safety and handling troubles—but their likeliness and consequences are magnified. 

Your tire repair will depend on the source of your flat. If there is a screw in your tire, you will need a patching service and tire inflation. Bent rims will require rim straightening service to address flat tire problems. If your flat tire caused serious damage or is the result of an old tire, you will need a tire replacement. 

Chapel Hill Tire Flat Tire Repair and Replacement

Chapel Hill Tire is here to serve all of your low tire pressure, flat tire, tire repair, and tire replacement needs. You can visit one of our 9 Triangle-area locations across Raleigh, Apex, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro for support. Our shops are also right down the road for drivers in Wake Forest, Pittsboro, Cary, Holly Springs, Hillsborough, Morrisville, Knightdale, and beyond. You can make your appointment here online, or give us a call to get started today! 

Do I need a differential fluid flush? What does differential fluid do? When it comes to differential fluid changes, this service often raises a lot of questions from drivers. The professional auto service mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.

Mechanic Insights: What is a Vehicle Differential? 

Before we dive into differential fluid service, let’s unpack one common question we get from drivers, “What is a vehicle differential?” A car’s differential allows the wheels to spin at different speeds. While you might think your wheels all spin together, this is an essential feature required for driving—especially while turning.

Why? Imagine making a sharp right turn around a street corner. Your left wheel will have to travel a great distance to make this turn happen, while your right wheel only moves slightly. For your vehicle to move at a constant speed, your wheels need to accommodate this rotational difference. 

What Does Differential Fluid Do?

Differential systems rely on a variety of moving parts, like gears, bearings, and more. They keep your wheels moving properly through every twist, turn, and winding road your vehicle comes across. This process generates a lot of heat while requiring the proper flow of parts moving together. As such, differential systems require fluid to lubricate, cool, and protect these components. 

Over time, this fluid becomes depleted, contaminated, and ineffective—which is why your vehicle will require occasional differential fluid changes. 

How Does Differential Fluid Replacement Work?

During a differential fluid replacement, a professional auto service mechanic will remove old, contaminated fluid out of your front or rear differential. By flushing out any contaminated fluid, they can ensure your service lasts as long as possible. Then, they replenish the differential with clean, fresh fluid.

Do I Need a Differential Fluid Flush?

On average, vehicles need new differential fluid every 40,000-60,000 miles. However, every car has different requirements, so it is important to check your owner’s manual for recommendations specific to your vehicle. When all else fails, one of the most reliable ways to tell if you need a differential fluid flush is by checking with your local auto service mechanic. Your driving patterns and the roads in your area can impact how frequently you need new differential fluid. As such, professional insight is key to getting the services you need. 

Differential Fluid Service at Chapel Hill Tire

When you are due for a rear or front differential fluid change, the professional auto mechanics are here for you! We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with our 9 locations across Apex, Raleigh, Durham, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill. We are also convenient to nearby areas, including Wake Forest, Pittsboro, Cary, and beyond. We invite you to make your appointment here online, browse our coupons page, or give our experts a call to get started today!

If you own a Tesla and are wondering if you can visit a local mechanic for Tesla services, you should know that many repair shops can perform types of maintenance and repair services for Teslas and other electric vehicles (EVs). While some issues will require Tesla’s in-house services, most can be completed by a local mechanic shop, helping drivers save time and money on Tesla repair costs.

As you decide where to take your Tesla for service, find out more about the benefits of going with your local shop and the main services most repair shops can perform on Teslas. 

Why Take Your Vehicle to Your Local Repair Shop Instead of a Tesla Repair Shop?

When you own a Tesla and need a repair, you’ll often have the choice to go with your Tesla dealership’s repair shop or another repair shop in your area. For some specialized services, you’ll always need to go to a Tesla service center, but for many other services, a local repair shop is faster, more convenient, and less costly. Below, you can review the three primary benefits of taking your Tesla to your local shop instead of a Tesla service center:

• Shorter wait times: Since Tesla started selling their EVs, many articles have come out about customers being dissatisfied with long wait times. For example, in 2023, Tesla customers sued the company for high prices and long wait times at Tesla service centers. These long wait times are often due to the company not having enough service centers to efficiently service their customers’ vehicles. In contrast, auto repair shops don’t suffer from this issue and can repair your vehicle faster.
• Lower prices: Alongside having to wait longer for service, Tesla service centers may charge more for parts and labor. In general, Tesla repair costs are much higher than other vehicles (including other EVs), with Kelley Blue Book reporting that, on average, damaged Teslas cost $1,347 more to repair compared to gas-powered cars. While you’ll pay more to repair a Tesla regardless of who repairs it, you can often save money by going to a local auto repair shop due to the lower labor costs.
• Increased convenience: Unless you live in a state with lots of Tesla repair shops like California, chances are your nearest Tesla service center is farther away than you’d like. For example, Tesla only has three service centers in North Carolina listed on their site as of July 2024. The lack of conveniently located service centers means you’ll likely have to go out of your way to receive service, making local repair shops a far more convenient option.

What Tesla Repair Services Can an Auto Repair Shop Perform?

If you’d like to receive faster service and lower prices when your Tesla needs maintenance or repairs, an auto repair shop can probably help. However, when your Tesla’s large battery is damaged or needs repairs, you should only take it to a Tesla service center, as most auto shops can’t or won’t work on lithium-ion batteries. Other than working on lithium-ion batteries, your local repair shop can often help with many other services. 

The five most common types of service Teslas can receive at a local repair shop include the following:

1. New Tesla Tires

Your Tesla tires will need new tires once the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch. Low tread depth can create issues with vehicle safety, handling, fuel economy, and so much more. When shopping for new Tesla tires, you can find enhanced customer service, convenience, and support when buying locally. Alongside purchasing tires from your local shop, you can have them replace the tires for you.

2. Rim Protection for Tesla Wheels

Tesla wheel rims are notorious for scratches. Why? Tesla’s tires are aligned closely with the rims—unlike most vehicles, where the tires protrude further than the rims for added protection. This design leaves rim metal vulnerable to damage. To make matters worse, even the Tesla auto-park feature has been known to scuff against the sidewalk. This problem is often called curbing, curb rash, or rim rash. 

Rim scratches impact the appearance of your Tesla, and they can lower your resale value. Thankfully, you can usually receive rim repair and rim straightening services at your local repair shop.

3. Tesla Tire Services: Tire Rotation, Balancing, Alignment, Patching, and Inflation

Tesla tires require the same routine and as-needed services that you would expect from any car. Keeping up with tire services can help you stay safe on the road, protect your vehicle from damage, and keep your range as long as possible. Usually, local repair shops can provide the following tire services for Tesla vehicles:

• Tire Balancing Service: For your Tesla to stay protected on the road, it needs balanced tires. Rough bumps, potholes, and standard wear can throw off the balance of your tires. Unbalanced tires will bear the weight of your vehicle unevenly, leading to tire or vehicle hazards. Road force tire balancing service can restore the weight distribution of your Tesla’s tires. 
• Tire Alignment Service: Over time, your wheels can fall out of alignment. This issue causes premature tire wear, poor gas mileage, steering wheel shakes, and handling troubles. Thankfully, tire alignment troubles are easy to fix with wheel alignment services. 
• Tire Rotation Services: As you steer your Tesla, the front tires will ensure more friction against the road than your back tires. To help your tires wear evenly, your Tesla will need regular tire rotation services. Tesla’s maintenance recommendations include a tire rotation every 6,250 miles. However, if the roads in your area are especially rough, you might consider more frequent rotations.
• Tire Patching Services: Nails, screws, and other tire hazards are often kicked up when driving on the road. When you find a nail in your tire, it will require a patching service. During the flat repair process, an expert will remove the nail or screw, patch the hole, and refill your tire with air.
• Tire Inflation Services: Is your Tesla notifying you of low tire pressure? Low tire inflation can cause your vehicle to use extra power, cutting down on your range and requiring more frequent charging. It can also impact your vehicle handling, destroy your tires, and damage your rims. A local repair shop can inflate your tires to ensure you’re driving with the right amount of tire pressure.

4. Tesla Control Arm Troubles

Tesla control arm components have a record of failing prematurely. Broken, loose, cracked, and worn control arm parts can create suspension safety issues. Thankfully, these control arm components can be easily replaced or repaired by a local auto repair shop. Local shops will help you skip the frustration and long wait times from Tesla dealerships.

5. 12v Battery Replacements

Though a local repair shop shouldn’t replace your lithium-ion battery, they can replace your Tesla’s smaller, 12v battery. This battery is essential for various functions in your vehicle, such as starting your Tesla and powering various electrical devices. Eventually, a Tesla’s 12v battery will die and need to be replaced, just like in any other vehicle. Fortunately, you can have it replaced at your local repair shop instead of having to take it to a Tesla service center.

Chapel Hill Tire: Tesla Service in the Triangle

If you are looking for high-quality, convenient Tesla service, Chapel Hill Tire is here for you! We offer EV and Tesla repairs and services in Raleigh, Apex, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro. Our locations are also easily accessible to surrounding cities, including Wake Forest, Cary, Pittsboro, Knightdale, and beyond. With our fast services, convenient locations, and commitment to customer-friendly pricing, we’re a top choice for many Tesla owners searching for a repair shop they can trust in the Triangle.Learn more about our Tesla repair and maintenance services today. If you’re ready to bring your Tesla in for service, please make an appointment at one of our many Triangle-area locations.

If you see the small U-shaped light on your dashboard with an exclamation point in the middle, this indicates low tire pressure. While you might think you need to head to a gas station air pump, the auto mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to show you an easier way.  Let’s take a look at 4 easy ways you can get your tire pressure checked and refilled for free. 

What Causes Low Tire Pressure?

Before we dive in, let’s unpack why your tires are low on air. Here is a look at some of the most common causes of low tire pressure:

• Standard air loss: If your tires are low on pressure, it is easy to assume there is a problem. However, the most common cause of low tire pressure is standard air loss that occurs over time. 
• Cold outdoor temperatures: When the temperature outside drops, the air inside your tires will compress.  
• Puncture: Nails or screws stuck in tire rubber are unfortunately common. The puncture opening will allow air inside your tire to escape. Here is a look at what to do when a nail punctures your tire.
• Wheel, tire, or rim issues: In a worst-case tire pressure scenario, your low pressure could be the result of a larger underlying issue with your wheel, tire, or rim. 

Low tire pressure can cause poor fuel economy, vehicle handling troubles, and tire damage. You can prevent these troubles by checking your tire pressure each month. Here is our guide to checking your tire pressure. Now, let’s look at some easy ways you can score free tire refills. 

Oil Change with Tire Inflation Included

Routine tire pressure refills often fall within the same cadence as your needed oil change visits. Select mechanic networks (like Chapel Hill Tire) will check and refill your tire pressure for free each time you get an oil change. This perk helps offer an added incentive for drivers choosing a mechanic. It also shows that your mechanic cares about your car and your safety. In addition to air pressure refills, Chapel Hill Tire offers a fluid level check, air filter check, and inspection of your engine’s belts and hoses free with each oil change visit. 

Free Air Pressure Refills with Tire Services

If you get your tire patched, rotated, aligned, or otherwise serviced, your mechanics will work up close and personal with your tires. Part of this service routine includes making sure your tires are ready to hit the road once they are finished. Any reputable mechanic will include tire pressure checks and refills with tire services.

Tire Road Hazard Protection Plan

When you buy a new tire or set of tires, you are often offered a protection plan. Some mechanics include it in their pricing, while others make this optional. At Chapel Hill Tire, our Road Hazard Tire Protection goes above and beyond most plans. This offering includes:

• Free tire pressure refills for the lifespan of each protected tire
• Free flat repairs for the lifespan of each protected tire
• Free balancing for the lifespan of each protected tire
• Up to $399.99 in tire replacement for each protected tire (included for 3 years or 2/32″ tread depth remaining)

Coupons, Deals, and Promotions

When visiting a local mechanic, you should always browse their coupons page for potential savings. In addition to potential tire pressure refill coupons, you might find other deals and discounts for your vehicle. At the time of publication, Chapel Hill Tire has a free tire pressure check and refill coupon available for our community. 

Free Tire Refills from Chapel Hill Tire

If your tires need a boost, the mechanics here at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. You can visit us at one of our 9 Triangle-area locations across Raleigh, Apex, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro for industry-leading car care. Make your appointment here online, or give us a call to get started today!