Category: Resource

As electric vehicles become more popular, searches about servicing them are becoming more and more common. Cars are complicated machines, and it can be hard to dedicate the time to learning about the ins and outs of your vehicle, so it’s natural to have a lot of questions. When searching the internet for information about servicing electric vehicles, some of the most common questions you might come across may be about cost, difficulty of repair, types of repairs, and who can even repair an electric vehicle in the first place. 

In this article, we’ll answer all of the above questions to help electric vehicle owners and prospective buyers get a better sense of what goes into electric vehicle repairs. 

Is Repairing Electric Cars More Expensive?

Repairing an electric car is quite different from a classic gas-powered vehicle. Electric vehicles tend to be simpler mechanically than cars with an internal combustion engine (ICE), as they don’t have as many moving parts that need maintenance and observation.

But this simplicity can sometimes come at a cost. EV cars are usually heavier than vehicles with gas-powered engines, and because of this, they tend to cause more damage to other vehicles when involved in collisions. Though they often cause more damage to other vehicles, they’re not immune from damage. If they’re damaged in a collision, the costs can add up quickly due to specialized parts that need to be purchased for electric vehicles. Because electric vehicles aren’t as popular as cars with ICE engines, the parts are less readily available, which drives up the cost. 

That being said, general maintenance for an electric vehicle tends to be cheaper than a gas-powered car. Since EV owners don’t have to worry about maintaining things like oil, the day-to-day fixes and annual service checks will potentially end up costing you less.

How Hard Is It to Repair an Electric Car? Are EVs More Difficult to Repair?

While basic maintenance tasks, like tire rotation or getting your alignment checked, are similar in EVs and ICE cars, some EV fixes can be more complicated. Electric cars have more niche parts than ICE cars, such as electric drivetrains, control systems, and the batteries that power the vehicles themselves. Due to the specificity of their parts, more advanced diagnostic tools and equipment are usually needed to perform more in-depth repairs. These tools will require the mechanic to have undergone specialized training to operate, which may also drive up labor costs.

It all depends on the fix, though. For example, a problem with a combustion car’s transmission will be a more complicated fix than if you just have some bad battery cables in your EV. Since combustion and electric vehicle repairs vary in complexity, there’s no clear answer about which one is harder. However, electric vehicles utilize more unique parts that some mechanics may not be trained to repair or replace, so it’s best practice to always go to a mechanic who has been properly trained to repair EVs. 

What Kind of Maintenance Do Electric Cars Need?

While EV cars may require less maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars, they still require regular checkups. Below, you can find a few things to stay on top of to keep your electric vehicle running smoothly: 

• Battery Health: The battery in an EV vehicle is what makes everything go, so you’ll want to keep a close eye to make sure that it is functioning properly. One way to ensure your battery is working properly is to compare the projected mileage range on your display to the miles covered on your trip. If there is a difference in the numbers, you should probably have a mechanic give it a look.
• Braking System: EV cars use a regenerative braking system that takes the power that would normally be used in a classic braking setup and siphons it back into your car’s battery, conserving energy. Much like brakes in ICE cars, regular checkups from trained mechanics on your EV’s brakes will save you money in the long run if you catch problems early.
• Cooling Systems & HVAC: While they don’t have a gasoline-powered engine, EV cars still require coolant. Coolant is easy to check yourself, so be sure to look at your levels periodically and refill as needed. The heating and cooling systems in your car will also require regular service to ensure they’re working as they should be.
• Software Updates: Keeping up to date on your vehicle’s firmware and software is essential to your electric vehicle functioning efficiently. Make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions on regular updates. If you’re having difficulty figuring out how to download the updates, take your car to a qualified mechanic so they can help you out.

Who Can Repair EV Vehicles? Can a Mechanic Repair an EV?

Not every mechanic will be qualified to work on an electric vehicle. When searching for a shop to take your EV to, be sure to do your research and make sure that their mechanics have the qualifications to service electric-powered cars. Since EVs require more specialized repairs, it may take a little longer to find a mechanic who can help you out, but it’s worth taking a little more time to find a properly certified mechanic to ensure your EV is properly maintained and repaired. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for All Your Electric Vehicle Repairs 

If you need electric vehicle repairs near Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Our team of technicians is trained to service all types of vehicles and will be happy to provide any repairs or maintenance you might need. We’re also proud to offer several promotions to keep your costs as low as possible.

Learn more about our hybrid and electric vehicle services today. If you need a repair for your gas or electric vehicle, please make an appointment at one of our 11 Triangle area locations.

Getting new tires can be a bit overwhelming at times. There are a lot of steps that go into getting a new set of wheels on your vehicle, and you’ll want to get the right set of tires so they last their entire lifespan. If you have an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, making sure that all of your new tires match is extremely important if you want to ensure that your car is performing at its best.

If you need all-wheel drive tire replacement, find out more about why it’s important to have matching AWD tires and review some best practices for car owners with AWD vehicles.

Why Having Matching AWD Tires Matters

While it can be tempting to select nonmatching AWD tires, they can impact your vehicle’s performance. Before you pick a new set of AWD tires, learn more about the top three reasons why having a matching set of AWD tires is essential to your vehicle’s performance:

• Uniform tire size ensures proper traction: Having the same-sized tires is necessary for maintaining consistent traction on all four of your wheels. Since nonmatching tires will wear at different rates, they can severely affect the AWD system in your car from distributing power efficiently. Besides impacting power distribution, their uneven wear and lack of consistent traction can compromise your car’s handling and performance.
• Tread depth uniformity enhances stability and traction: Tread depth uniformity, like tire size, also affects how your AWD system functions. A set of tires that don’t match and have different tread depths can compromise traction and reduce stability. Without proper stability and traction, your vehicle will be harder to control, resulting in an increased risk of accidents, particularly in bad weather conditions. 
• Brand consistency reduces the risk of premature wear and tear: While you may find tires that are the same size and tread depth made by different companies, sticking to the same brand is the way to go. Tires from different brands often vary in their rubber compounds, tread patterns, and overall construction. These differences can make a big difference when it comes to wear and tear and overall performance. As a result, you’ll want to purchase matching AWD tires from the same brand.

Best Practices for AWD Vehicle Owners

If you own an AWD vehicle, you should get into the habit of practicing general maintenance to keep your car and its system functioning properly. Learn more about some AWD tire best practices below:

• Replace tires in sets of four: When it comes time to replace one or all of your AWD tires, it’s best to do it all at once, even if only one tire is experiencing issues. If your tires are at different stages in their lifespan, it could compromise your entire system, potentially putting you and your passengers at risk. 
• Regular tire rotations: Consistent tire rotation can help your tires wear at an even pace. Rotation extends the life of tires and helps maintain the consistency of tread depth. Your vehicle’s manual should have instructions on how often you should rotate your tires, and it’s best to stick to that schedule. 
• Check and adjust tire pressure: An easy fix you can do yourself is keeping your tires filled with air according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Most gas stations have tire pressure devices that allow you to check how much air is in your tires and fill them if necessary. Lower tire pressure can put you at risk for uneven wear and even flats, something nobody wants to deal with when they’re on the road. 
• Invest in a full-sized spare: If you get a flat, you should have a full-sized spare in your car. Using a smaller-sized spare tire for an extended period of time can lead to complications with your vehicle, especially if it’s engaged in an AWD system. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for All-Wheel Drive Replacement Services

If you need all-wheel drive replacement services in Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire can help. When you bring your vehicle for service, our certified mechanics can help you select matching AWD tires from a trusted brand. Our team can also perform regular tire inspection, rotation, and alignment services to maximize your AWD tires’ lifespans. Before you schedule an appointment, check out our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Learn more about our tire replacement services today. When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you’re wondering what to get that special person in your life that will show your love, look no further! Car enthusiasts are always on the lookout for ways to upgrade their ride, whether it’s with new parts or some kind of cosmetic glow up. It can be hard to know exactly what they need for the vehicle that they love so much, and asking them up front would ruin the surprise!

Don’t worry though, Chapel Hill is here to help! In this article we’ll go over 4 Valentine’s Day gifts for car enthusiasts that’ll have them swooning. 

Gift Option #1: Quality Tools & Tool Set

When it comes to working on your own car, investing in a quality set of tools will not only make projects easier, but also save you money in the long run. Cheaper tools will break easier and have you running back to the auto shop or online retailer at the worst moments. Your car enthusiast may be thiiiis close to being done with his or her current project, just to have a problem with his tools that halts all of the progress. 

You’ll want to do a bit of research before you buy the first set of mechanic’s tools that you find online. Once you’ve found a well reviewed set that’s within your budget get ready for a Valentine’s Day to remember as you watch your partner’s face light up!

Gift Option #2: Mobile Detailing Package

A glow up for your car enthusiast’s prized possession is a great way to show how much you care. Mobile detailing packages will have his or her ride shining and looking like it just rolled out of the lot. Detailing packages usually include, but aren’t limited to, exterior waxing, interior detailing, and tire care. Getting your car detailed in the winter time is also a great way to protect it from all types of damage as well. Things like ice, snow, and salt on the roads can beat up cars pretty badly, so getting detailing done before the warm months roll around is an awesome gift idea.  

Chapel Hill offers a great selection of mobile detailing packages that will fit almost any budget!

Gift Option #3: Gift Certificate for Detailing, Repairs, & More

If you’re having trouble singling out something that special someone in your life may need for his car, a gift card to their favorite auto shop is always a great idea! Gift cards are great because they’re so flexible, and that way you won’t have to try and single out a single part or thing that his or her car needs without trying to hide the surprise.

Whether it’s a DIY project, a new set of tires, or a repair that’s been putting off for a while, your partner will be all set!

Gift Option #4: A Model of His or Her Car

Last but not least, a smaller version of the car he or she loves is a cute idea that’s sure to bring a smile to his or her face. If one is available, this would make a great gift for the office, the desk, or garage.

With the amount of online retailers today that make custom items, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a vendor who’s willing to either make a custom model of a car, or already has that specific version in their shop.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for a Gift Your Valentine Will Love 

If you live in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas and are looking for a Valentine’s Gift for the car enthusiast in your life, stop by Chapel Hill Tire. 

From Mobile Detailing Packages to Gift Cards, we’re sure to have something that he’ll love. A repair that he’s been putting off can also be a great gift idea as well. Sometimes nothing says I Love You more than crossing something off of your partner’s to do list for them!

Before you schedule an appointment, check out our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area.

The winter months can be hard on vehicles. From snow and ice causing damage to the exterior of your car to rock salt and de-icers wreaking havoc on the undercarriage, icy roads aren’t the only thing you need to look out for once temperatures start to plummet. Getting your car detailed in winter is a great idea if you want to stay one step ahead of all the troubles that can come in the snowy months. 

Alongside making your car look great, detailing can protect it from hazards that could end up costing you a good deal of money in the long run. As you consider bringing your vehicle in for car detailing near you in the Raleigh-Durham area, review the top five ways detailing can protect your vehicle in the wintertime. 

1. Undercarriage Protection 

The salt and de-icer typically used to treat winter roads for ice and snow can do a good deal of damage to your car’s undercarriage. While these substances help protect your driving in the winter, they can cause rust formation and structural damage. These long-lasting effects could have you shelling out a lot of money down the line. 

Car detailing can include a protective coating that can shield your vehicle’s undercarriage from corrosive substances. This coating will preserve the structural integrity of your vehicle’s undercarriage, lengthening its lifespan and keeping cash in your pocket. 

2. Stain and Odor Removal

Winter can be hard on the interior area of your vehicle as well. Muddy boots, wet clothing, and salt-stained carpets are all common problems vehicle owners face if they live in an area that sees temperatures drop below freezing. 

A comprehensive detailing job will also address the interior of your car, removing any stains and odors that may accumulate during the winter. Specialized cleaning techniques and solutions are used to refresh fabrics, carpets, and upholstery, ensuring your car looks and smells as good as new. 

3. Exterior Waxing and Paint Protection

The elements can be hard on your car’s paint no matter what time of year, but winter conditions can be especially damaging to paint. Snow, ice, and road salt can all damage a vehicle’s paint job and cause corrosion over time. 

Car detailing often includes a thorough exterior waxing process that acts as a protective barrier for your paint. Waxing your car also makes the exterior look great, so you’ll be shielding it from unwanted damage while improving the look of your ride at the same time! 

4. Headlight Restoration 

Over time, a car’s headlights can become less effective due to repeated exposure to snow, salt, and road debris. When you get your car detailed, headlight restoration is often included. 

During headlight restoration, your vehicle’s headlights will be polished to remove haziness and restore the original brightness. Winter days are shorter, and visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially on icy roads or in heavy precipitation. Improved headlight function will help you stay safe during winter’s challenging driving conditions.

5. Weather Resistant Sealant for Interior and Exterior Surfaces 

Car detailing services often apply weather-resistant sealants to both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. These sealants act as barriers, repelling snow, ice, and water to stop any moisture-related damage before it gets out of hand. An added benefit to weather sealants is that they make it easier to clean your car, ensuring that your vehicle remains in top condition during the winter months. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Mobile Auto Detailing Services Near You in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham

If you’re looking for mobile or car detailing services near you in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, head over to Chapel Hill Tire. Our qualified team of mechanics would be happy to answer any questions you have about how winter weather can affect your vehicle and what you can do to prevent unwanted damage. We also offer several car detailing services that can help you receive all the benefits listed above. If you don’t want to come in for an appointment, you can use our mobile detailing services to have our technicians come to you!Learn more about car detailing services today. When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area. We also recommend you review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Now that it’s winter, taking the time to pay attention to the maintenance of your vehicle is extra important. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your car’s battery, sometimes resulting in frustrating moments where your vehicle won’t start. Since freezing temperatures can drain your battery’s power by up to 60 percent, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in place should your battery die and leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Battery packs are a great thing to have in your vehicle if your battery ends up dying and you’re not able to get a jump from a friend or a helpful stranger. As you prepare for winter driving, find out more about the ways cold weather can affect your car’s battery and how to jump-start a car using a battery pack. 

How Cold Weather Affects Your Car’s Battery

During the winter, your battery is far more likely to die unexpectedly and leave you with a vehicle you can’t start. While you consider investing in a jump-starting battery pack, learn more about the top three ways cold weather can impact your car’s battery:

• Chemical Reaction Slowdown: Lower temperatures can slow down electrochemical reactions that happen within your car’s battery. These slower reactions can make it harder for your battery to generate sufficient power for a smooth start.
• Increased Internal Resistance: Cold weather leads to an uptick in the internal resistance of a vehicle’s battery. The greater internal resistance can make it difficult for a battery to deliver the necessary power to the car’s engine. 
• Reduced Overall Capacity: The overall capacity of a car’s battery will decrease in cold weather, resulting in a diminished ability to store and supply the required energy. 

 How to Jump Start a Car Using a Battery Pack

Though the winter can impact your battery’s performance, you can still protect yourself with a jump-start battery pack. These packs make it possible to jump-start your vehicle without needing another vehicle’s working battery. Instead of having to ask a stranger to help you jump your vehicle, you can use a jump-starting battery pack to do it yourself. Since you can use a jump-starting battery pack on your own, it’s important to know how to do so correctly and safely.

If you already own a jump-starting battery pack or are planning on buying one soon, review the seven steps you’ll need to follow when jump-starting a vehicle with a battery pack below:

1. Choose the Right Battery Pack

Battery packs come in a variety of models designed for different vehicles and batteries. Before you buy a battery pack to keep in your car, make sure it will work with your vehicle. If you’re not sure how to figure out if the battery pack is compatible, your regular mechanic should be able to tell you. Things like vehicle size and what type of battery your car has will play a role in what types will work with your vehicle. 

2. Charge the Jump Starting Battery Pack

Once you buy your battery pack, you should familiarize yourself with how to properly charge it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You’ll also need to regularly check up on the power levels to make sure the pack is properly charged for emergency situations should they arise.

3. Connecting The Jump Starter 

Once you’ve charged your jump starter, it’s time to connect your battery pack. Begin by locating the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on your car’s battery. They should be properly labeled with the above symbols for ease of detection. Once you’ve located the terminals, connect the red (+) clamp of the battery pack to the positive terminal and the black (-) clamp to the negative terminal of the battery. 

4. Turn On the Jump-Starting Battery Pack

Now that your jump starter is connected, it’s time to turn it on! If it’s the first time you’re using it, check in the manual to see if there’s anything special you need to know about turning the jump-starting battery pack on. Different models may have different locations for the power switches or sequences required to start them up, so make sure you know what you’re doing just in case. 

5. Start Your Vehicle

After the jump-starting battery pack is on, get in your vehicle and attempt to start it. If your engine comes on, you should let it run for a few minutes to ensure the battery is recharged before disconnecting the jumping pack. 

6. Disconnect the Jump Starting Kit

When disconnecting the jump-starting kit, turn off your vehicle first. Once the vehicle isn’t running, make sure to take the negative (black) clamp off before you take the positive (red) clamp off. The positive cable is more likely to throw a spark and possibly damage your car, so breaking the connection with the negative terminal first is safer. 

7. Recharge Your Battery Pack 

Finally, make sure to recharge your battery pack once you get home. Now that it’s worked properly and you know you can depend on it, you’ll want to ensure it’s ready to go if you ever need it again!

Interested in Jump Starting Kits? Head Over to Chapel Hill Tire

If you live in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas and are curious about jump-starting kits, head over to Chapel Hill Tire. Our qualified team of mechanics would be happy to answer any questions about what jump-starting battery pack would be viable for your car and provide instructions on how to safely use it. We also offer a variety of battery diagnostic and replacement services that you can rely on when your battery isn’t working like you expect it to.

Learn more about our battery services today. When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area. We also recommend you review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

With temperatures plunging and winter setting in, safely navigating roads covered in snow and ice should be on every driver’s mind. Cold-weather driving requires special attention to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Knowing some winter driving best practices will help prepare you to drive safely to and from wherever you’re going this winter. As you prepare to drive on icy roads this winter, review our top extreme cold weather driving tips!

1. Check Your Battery 

One of the easiest things you can do to ensure your car doesn’t die in the winter is to check your battery. Cold weather can drain your battery’s power by up to 60 percent, so if your weather forecast predicts that temperatures will plummet, you should check that your battery is in good shape before you hit the road. The last thing you want while you’re driving in freezing weather is to be stuck on the side of the road with a dead battery. 

2. Top Up on Coolant

Coolant prevents your engine from freezing and is probably one of the most important things you can do to protect your car in the winter. Engine damage due to lack of coolant is extremely expensive to repair, and the damage can be so expensive that it might just be better to get an entirely new car. Fortunately, coolant is inexpensive and doesn’t require anything more than pouring it into the reservoir. Throughout the winter, monitor your coolant levels and keep them topped off. 

3. Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels

Cold weather can affect the thickness of the fluids in your car, which means you’ll want to check them regularly throughout the winter months to make sure everything is flowing properly. Oil, wiper, brake, and transmission fluids are all notorious for getting gunked up when it starts getting cold outside. Many of these fluids are vital for your car to keep running properly, so checking that they’re still flowing as they should be until spring rolls around again is very important. 

4. Replace Wipers and Check Lights

Reduced visibility while driving on snowy or icy roads is extremely dangerous. Wipers that are functioning properly are essential if you have to venture out in your car while it’s snowing. Additionally, properly maintained lights such as turn signals and brake lights can help other drivers be aware of your intentions and give them time to react to what is going on around them. Before you hit the road over the winter, take your vehicle in for an inspection and have them check your vehicle’s lights and replace your wipers.

5. Plan Ahead: Prep an Emergency Kit and Check Road Conditions

It’s impossible to predict what will happen when you’re out driving, especially if the conditions are bad. Having an emergency prep kit filled with essentials in the event that you end up in an unexpected roadside situation can be a lifesaver. Common items to include in a kit like this would be a first aid kit, a flashlight, extra clothing, a blanket, and some non-perishable snacks. You can add additional items that you think would be helpful to tailor the kit to your specific needs.

Also, being aware of bad road conditions before you start driving can help you avoid long delays or dangerous situations. Take a minute to check out the road situations on the way to your destination, and if necessary, plan on taking an alternate route. 

6. Keep Your Gas Tank Full

If the gas in your tank gets too low in cold temperatures, there’s a chance your fuel line could freeze, causing your car not to start. When you don’t regularly refill your gas tank, you could be stuck having to either push your car somewhere warmer or wait for it to warm up outside so your fuel line can thaw. Plan to stop at the gas station more often to keep your car’s gas tank close to full throughout the winter to avoid a fuel line freeze.

7. Drive Defensively 

Finally, one of the best things you can do while driving in the winter is to take a step back and drive a little more defensively. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping distances. Be especially mindful of black ice, as it can be especially hazardous. 

Doing Some Winter Driving? Head Over to Chapel Hill Tire for a Winter Car Inspection

If you’re worried about how your car will handle winter driving this year and live in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you’re bringing your car to make sure it’s in good shape or you’ve noticed some things that you think could be concerning, our qualified team of mechanics would be happy to take a look at your car. With our comprehensive inspection services, we can ensure your car is ready to handle icy roads and freezing temperatures.

When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area. We also recommend you review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!