Category: Resource

It seems like it’s hard to go a week without hearing about some new advancement in technology these days. Whether it’s a new gadget or updated software, trying to keep up with everything can make your head spin. Data collection is easy to forget about in all of the noise. You can’t see or hold your data, but it is very real, and many companies make a huge amount of money selling your personal data every day. 

Recently, car data collection has made its way into the data collection conversation, as many companies buy and sell data collected from vehicles. In this article, we’ll go over the main types of car data collection, what is done with the information once they have it, and what you can do to protect your data.

What Data Does My Car Collect?

There are many different ways that your data can be used to sell you things, track your location, and even steal your identity. Cars are a particularly convenient mechanism for data collection because we spend so much time in them, and most newer cars have “smart” technology that links up with your phone. As cars collecting data won’t be going away any time soon, it’s essential to understand what data your vehicle might be collecting from you,

 Below, you can find an overview of the main types of car data collection:

• Location Tracking: If your car has an integrated GPS like most newer models do, that data is most likely being collected by the manufacturer. Location data can be used by companies to infer things about your life, habits, and preferences. Once they collect this data, they can use it as they see fit. Your location can also be shared with the local or federal government upon request. While this governmental location sharing is important for security purposes in some instances, it’s hard not to wonder how often this information is being looked at. 
• Phone Habits: When you download a car manufacturer’s app, all that data is sent straight to them. Your car’s computer system can also collect data when you connect it to your phone. If you’re parked, your car is on, and you’re scrolling through your phone, there is a chance that the car’s computer is storing that data. Things like music preferences and listening trends can also be collected and sold to try and paint a picture of what you like and dislike. 
• Passwords and Sensitive Information: Car computer security is not generally discussed a great deal, but there is a risk of someone hacking into your car’s computer and stealing your personal information. Data like banking app passwords, addresses, and work information can potentially be gathered by someone with the right skills. This threat of hackers is particularly scary as you could just be driving to work like you always do, and someone could be sifting through your phone. 
• Audio and Video: Most modern cars are outfitted with multiple cameras and microphones inside and outside of them. The audio and video can be collected by car manufacturers and sold to different companies. It is a little unnerving to think about our cars watching and listening to us, but it is not out of the question with how valuable buying and selling data has become. 

4 Tips for Protecting Your Vehicle’s Data

While it is almost impossible to have your data completely secure, there are some steps you can take to try and protect yourself and your information from car data collection. Review our four main tips for protecting your data while in your car below:

• Review Privacy Settings: It’s important to familiarize yourself with your car and the manufacturer’s settings and policies on privacy. If you feel uncomfortable with a certain setting, do your best to turn it off. When you can’t find a way to turn it off yourself, you can contact the manufacturer to see if it’s possible to opt-out. 
• Keep Your Software Updated: If your vehicle has applications you can’t shut off or opt out of, make sure that the software is up to date with the most current version. While updating your software won’t stop the manufacturer from collecting data, it could stop hackers. Since software updates often contain bolstered security and fix previous vulnerabilities, they often make it harder for someone to tap into your car’s system without you knowing. 
• Look Up Your Local Laws: Different states have different laws concerning what information can be collected and what can be done with it. Taking a look at your area’s privacy laws can help you understand what is happening to all of your information and any rights you have concerning that data. 

Have Questions About Your Vehicle’s Computer? Swing By Chapel Hill Tire 

If you live in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas and have questions about your car’s computer, stop by Chapel Hill Tire. Our qualified professionals will be happy to go over your car’s settings and help you understand how your data may be being collected. 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.

Buying a car can be an exciting adventure, and it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill when you think you’ve found the perfect vehicle. Since purchasing a car is such a significant investment, it is important that you do your due diligence to make sure that you don’t end up with a vehicle that already has issues and will have you spending money at the mechanic sooner than you’d like. Fortunately, pre-purchase inspections can help spot issues with a vehicle and are critical for anyone buying a car.

Before you purchase a vehicle, you should know why pre-purchase inspections are important and the five steps you’ll want to follow to receive one.

Why Pre-Purchase Inspections Matter

When it comes time to buy a new car, appearances can be deceiving. You’ve probably heard the saying don’t judge a book by its cover, and the same applies to vehicles. Just because a car looks great on the outside doesn’t mean it doesn’t have issues, and it is important to be as informed as possible about your potential new car before you sign the ownership papers. Learn more about how pre-purchase inspections could help you during the buying process below:

• Hidden Issues: A qualified mechanic will take an in-depth look at the car you are thinking about buying during a pre-purchase inspection. During this inspection, they can uncover any hidden issues that could have gone unnoticed during your test drive. Since worn-out components that are still functioning and other problems can become major problems in the future and potentially cost you thousands of dollars, a pre-purchase inspection can save you lots of money in the long run.
• True Value & Negotiation Power: We’d all like to assume that others have our best interests in mind, but it is a good idea to have a third party assess the car you’re interested in buying to determine its actual value. Sellers could be marking up a car worth far less than they’re asking, and a pre-purchase inspection can let you know what the car is actually worth. With this knowledge, you can potentially negotiate with the seller and get a fair price for what you’re paying. 
• Peace of Mind: A pre-purchase inspection can go a long way in giving you peace of mind, as you’ll know you’re making the most informed decision possible when buying a car. After you’re armed with the knowledge you’re getting a fair deal, you can focus on your new car or continue your search if the one you had in mind doesn’t end up working out after the inspection.

Your 5-Step Guide to Getting a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection

While coordinating a pre-purchase inspection may seem daunting when you first start doing your research, it can be easy if you follow a few key steps. As you try to schedule one, review the five steps to getting a pre-purchase inspection below:

Step 1: Research Local Inspection Services

The first thing you’ll want to do is look up what mechanics around you provide inspection services, particularly ones with a good track record for pre-purchase inspections. While you research local mechanics, you’ll want to look at reviews of the shop and check out their website to see what information they have about pre-purchase inspections. 

Step 2: Coordinate With the Seller and Schedule In Advance

Once you’ve identified a trustworthy auto shop, you’ll want to go ahead and contact the seller to schedule the inspection. After you discuss when they can bring in their car, you can schedule your pre-purchase inspection in advance at the auto shop.

Step 3: Be Present During the Inspection

It is extremely important that you attend the pre-purchase inspection along with the seller. By attending the inspection, you can speak to the mechanic conducting the inspection face to face right after it’s concluded. This opportunity to talk to the mechanic can help you make a more informed decision about whether the vehicle is worth buying.

Step 4: Review the Inspection Checklist

You should take a look at the inspection checklist in order to make sure that the mechanic is inspecting the vehicle’s exterior, interior, and under-the-hood components. A thorough pre-purchase inspection will also include test drive results and diagnostic checks. If you see the checklist doesn’t include checks of the previously mentioned parts of the vehicle, be sure to bring it up with the shop.

Step 5: Carefully Evaluate the Inspection Report 

Once the inspection is finished, go over the report with the mechanic who conducted it to discuss their findings. The report should outline all issues the car has and any potential problems that could arise in the future. Always be sure to bring up any questions you have with the mechanic. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Your Pre-Purchase Inspection

If you’re looking to buy a car and need a pre-purchase inspection in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. When buying a new car, you want the peace of mind that you’re making the correct decision, and we’re here to help you make sure that you’re getting the best deal you possibly can. Before you schedule an appointment, review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Learn more about our inspection 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.

With temperatures dropping, it’s an important time of year to ensure you’re on top of your vehicle’s winter maintenance. When you think of issues that your car may have in the ice and snow, tires and suspension are potentially where your mind goes initially due to sliding hazards, but your vehicle’s transmission can also be affected by the cold.

As you prepare your car for cold weather, you should know how lower temps can affect your transmission, the main signs that your transmission may be experiencing problems, and the steps you can take to ensure that your transmission is in tip-top shape.

The Two Ways Cold Weather Can Impact a Vehicle’s Transmission

Two major ways cold weather can cause problems in your vehicle’s transmission are contracting components due to lower temperatures and the thickening of transmission fluids. Learn more about how cold weather can affect your vehicle’s transmission below:

• Contracting Components: Icy temperatures can cause components in your vehicle’s transmission to contract. Rubber parts such as seals are especially vulnerable to this type of damage, and while the damage may not be apparent at first, the wear and tear will eventually cause major issues. Even the smallest amount of contraction can cause gaps between transmission components, allowing water to get in and rust your components. The water can also freeze and expand, causing major damage to your transmission and costing you thousands. 
• Thickening of Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluids become thicker in the cold, causing them to flow less smoothly throughout your vehicle’s system. Viscous transmission fluid can lead to shifting gears and increased friction, which can cause wear and tear on your car’s transmission system. 

4 Signs of Transmission Issues in Cold Weather 

Getting on top of transmission issues before they get out of hand will save you money in the long run. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears out for the following four signs that your car may be having transmission problems in the winter: 

• Delayed or Rough Shifting: If you’ve noticed that your car is taking longer to change gears or you are feeling a rough series of jolts when it does, your vehicle’s transmission is likely having problems. 
• Whining or Grinding Noises: Any type of grinding or whining while changing gears is a major indicator that the transmission in your car needs a repair. There shouldn’t be any kind of auditory indicator that your car is changing gears, so if it’s cold outside and you’re hearing things when shifting, it’s time to take your car into an automotive shop near you. At the shop, a professional can diagnose whatever issues you’re having. 

• Slipping Gears: If your car starts to change gears unexpectedly, it’s a major sign that the cold weather could be affecting your transmission. When your gears are shifting without warning or your transmission loses power, you should bring your car in to have it looked at to prevent further damage
• Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights should never be ignored, especially when they’re related to your transmission. Every car owner should familiarize themselves with what the various lights on their dashboard indicate. If your transmission light turns on, you’ll want to get your transmission checked out as soon as possible to ensure the problem doesn’t become worse. 

Potential Transmission Fixes  

If your car needs work on its transmission due to cold weather, a mechanic can likely fix the issue for you. Learn more about the three main fixes that a mechanic may perform to get you back on the road:

• Transmission Fluid Change: A mechanic will check your car’s transmission fluids to make sure that they are at proper levels and are a good consistency. If they find that the transmission fluid is thick, discolored, or your levels are off, they will take the proper steps to ensure that these problems are addressed. 
• Complete Transmission Flush: If your transmission fluid problems are severe enough, your car may need a complete flush of its transmission system to get rid of old, contaminated fluid. 
• Cold Weather Additives: Your mechanic may recommend using transmission additives designed for cold weather issues. These additives will keep your transmission fluid at the proper consistency, allowing it to flow properly and preventing further thickening at lower temperatures. 
• Part replacement: Sometimes, a transmission issue could be due to a broken down part. When a mechanic discovers a specific part is causing your issue, they’ll need to replace it.
• Transmission resealing: If a mechanic discovers your vehicle is leaking, they may need to seal any leaks they find. While mechanics can often just seal isolated leaks, they may need to fully reseal your transmission if you have too many leaks or an existing leak is difficult to find.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for all of Your Transmission Needs

If you’re looking for a transmission shop in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you’re bringing your car in before holiday traveling to make sure it’s in good shape or after you’ve noticed signs that you may be having transmission problems, our mechanics can fully inspect your car’s system and make the fixes required to get it running smoothly again. Before you schedule an appointment, review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Learn more about our transmission 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.

Your vehicle’s suspension plays a crucial role in ensuring that you and your passengers have a smooth, safe ride when traveling in your car. While you drive, the suspension system maximizes friction between your tires and the road to help you maintain control over the car. Since suspension problems can reduce your ability to control your car, it’s essential your car’s suspension stays in proper shape. Fortunately, suspension systems are good at letting you know when they need to be serviced. 

As you try to stay on top of your car’s suspension, review the following top five signs you need to take your car in for suspension repairs.

1. Uneven Tire Wear

One of the most noticeable signs of suspension issues is uneven tire wear. If your tires are wearing down at a more rapid rate on one side, your suspension system could be at fault, as misaligned wheels or uneven shocks could be the cause of the problem. Besides making your car less safe to drive, suspension problems can make your tires wear down faster, resulting in extra tire replacement costs. If you notice uneven tire wear, take your car to a mechanic to ensure it’s not a suspension issue.

2. Bouncing or Swaying 

When driving on smooth, well-maintained roads, you generally shouldn’t feel much bouncing or swaying. A correctly maintained suspension system should provide a smooth, controlled ride. If you’ve noticed that your car is excessively bouncing when you go over bumps or swaying when you take turns, it’s a pretty strong indicator that something may be wrong with your suspension. 

Well-maintained shocks and struts also help keep your tires in contact with the road, and when they’re in tip-top shape, you shouldn’t be having any complications controlling your vehicle. Any driver who is experiencing loss of control while driving, even if it’s minimal, should contact an auto shop to have their car inspected. Driving a car that you can’t control properly is extremely dangerous for yourself and other drivers on the road.

3. Knocking or Clunking Noises 

Nobody likes to hear their car making noises that they’ve never heard before. If you’re hearing any kind of knocking or clunking, especially when going over bumps, it’s time to have a professional look at your car. These noises could be a sign of worn-out suspension components, such as bushings or ball joints. Additionally, suspension issues that aren’t addressed promptly will only cause the damage to worsen. 

Nobody knows your car better than you, so don’t delay bringing it into a shop if you’re hearing any out-of-the-ordinary sounds. There are so many integral parts in suspension systems that even one being thrown off can cause major issues.

4. Issues With Steering Responsiveness

Your car’s steering is closely tied to the health of its suspension system. Problems arising from worn-out suspension components or complications following any kind of impact on your car can throw your suspension out of whack. As a result, you’ll need to get your vehicle checked out if you’re feeling any delays in responsiveness or having difficulties maintaining control. 

Even if you feel like the handling issues are minimal, you should bring your car into a shop. What seems negligible now could turn into a huge issue if you’re in a situation that puts a lot of stress on your suspension system. Instead of letting the issue get worse and risking your safety, take your vehicle to a shop for an inspection.

5. Visible Fluid Leaks

If you see any visible fluid leaks outside your car, especially near the wheels, you could have a suspension problem. For example, vehicles with leaks around the wheel area could have compromised components like shocks and struts. These pieces are vital when it comes to how smoothly your car drives and how well it can handle. A qualified professional should be able to diagnose where the leaks are coming from. They can also recommend any repairs to your car’s suspension that may be needed. 

 Choose Chapel Hill Tire for all of Your Suspension Needs

If you think your car is having suspension issues and are looking for a suspension shop in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you’re bringing your car in for its regularly scheduled inspection or after you’ve noticed any of the signs above, our mechanics can fully inspect your vehicle and make the proper repairs to get your vehicle’s suspension working at its best again. Before you schedule an appointment, review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Learn more about our wheel alignment 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.

As we head into the winter months, it is important to keep up with the maintenance of your vehicle. Winter can be an especially trying time for car owners, as the dropping temperatures affect automobiles in all sorts of ways. When thinking about how cold weather affects cars, your mind might turn to your engine or the various fluids that make your vehicle run, but the alignment of your tires can also be impacted by icy conditions. 

As you prepare for winter driving conditions, learn more about how driving on ice-covered roads can impact your alignment and what you should be looking for if you think your car’s alignment is having issues.

The Impact of Icy Roads on Wheel Alignment

Your vehicle’s wheel alignment is especially vulnerable to alignment issues during the winter. Some of the primary causes for wheel alignment issues happening on icy roads include the following:

• Increased Chance of Potholes: Ice expands and contracts as the temperatures change, and this fluctuation is notorious for causing potholes on icy roads. When you hit a pothole in your car, your wheels can get knocked out of alignment. Since icy roads can hide potholes and make them more likely to develop, you’re more likely to hit a pothole that knocks your wheels out of alignment.
• Greater risk of sliding and colliding with another vehicle: An accident while on icy roads is every driver’s worst nightmare. Unfortunately, icy roads increase the risk of collisions, as they can cause vehicles to slide on the ice and collide with another vehicle. These types of crashes can easily affect your car’s alignment and handling.
• Higher Stress on Suspension Systems: Driving on icy roads can lead to a lot of sudden stops and starts, which puts extra stress on your suspension system. Over time, this stress can cause your tires to get out of alignment. After the winter season is over, you may want to pop over to a mechanic to make sure that all of the stop-and-go during the winter didn’t impact your vehicle’s alignment. 

The Importance of Alignment Checks During and After Winter

Getting your tire’s alignment checked can be a smart investment during the winter months and after they’re over. Tire alignment can affect your driving experience in many different ways, including:

• Tire Lifespan: Misaligned tires will put more stress on the tire structure and cause them to wear out earlier than they normally would. Regular alignment checks will ensure your car is as safe to drive as possible. It can also save you money in the long run because you’ll get your money’s worth out of a set of wheels.
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: If you’ve been wondering why you’ve been spending so much time at the gas pump this winter, it could be because of misaligned wheels. When your tires are misaligned, they create more resistance, causing your vehicle to work harder and consume more fuel.
• Smoother Driving Experience and Enhanced Safety: When your tires are misaligned, you’ll notice that your car pulls slightly in one direction. If you’re driving in icy conditions, the last thing you want is for you to have less control over your vehicle. Proper wheel alignment ensures your tires are contacting the road optimally, giving you the peace of mind that you and your passengers will get where you need to go with the least amount of risk possible. 

When Should You Get Your Alignment Checked?

Since wheel alignment issues can affect your vehicle’s safety, you’ll need to have your alignment checked when you notice any signs of alignment issues and at regular maintenance inspections. Below, you can find a breakdown of the times when you’ll need to check your vehicle’s alignment:

• After you’re in an accident or hit a pothole: If you’ve hit a large pothole or had a collision, it’s time to take your car in. Since both of these instances can affect alignment, it’s a good idea to go ahead and have a professional take a look at your wheels after your car has taken any kind of impact
• When You Notice Key Signs of Misaligned Wheels: Some of the most common signs of misaligned wheels include a vehicle pulling to one side, vibrations, and tires wearing unevenly. If you notice any of these signs, you should take your car to a mechanic to see if it needs a wheel alignment service.
• During Standard maintenance checks: Regular vehicle maintenance checks are vital for any car owner. Catching alignment issues early can help keep you safe and save you money in the long run. Be sure to include alignment checks in your regularly scheduled maintenance visits. Those who want to be even safer should consider setting up a maintenance inspection before and after the winter to make sure that everything in your car is running optimally.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for all of Your Wheel Balancing Needs

If you’re looking for wheel alignment near you in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you’re bringing your car in for a routine inspection or after you’ve noticed signs of misaligned wheels, our mechanics can fully inspect your vehicle and align your wheels if needed. Before you schedule an appointment, review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!

Learn more about our wheel alignment 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.

Over the years, hybrid vehicles have exploded in popularity. Since they’re a more eco-friendly, fuel-efficient option to traditional cars, it’s easy to see why many people opt to go hybrid with their next vehicle purchase. Despite their advantages, you’ll likely want to consider a hybrid’s repair costs before you make a large financial commitment. If you’re interested in purchasing a hybrid vehicle, you should know about repairs that can be more expensive with a hybrid car and ones that are about the same in a car that only uses gasoline.

Hybrid Repairs That Can Be More Expensive Than Traditional Repairs

Due to the difference in their design compared to traditional vehicles, hybrid vehicles sometimes require more expensive repairs. As you consider purchasing a hybrid vehicle, review the most common hybrid vehicle repairs that usually cost more than those for traditional vehicles below:

1. Battery Replacement

Battery replacement is one of the most significant repairs a hybrid vehicle owner can encounter. Hybrid cars have two batteries: one is a 12v battery that is used for smaller functions like starting, locking, and interior lighting, and the other is a much higher voltage battery that is responsible for moving the vehicle.

The larger of the two batteries has a lifespan that usually lasts from 100,000 to 200,000 miles and costs anywhere from $1,000 – $8,000 to replace, making it one of the most significant repairs in hybrid cars. Due to the higher cost of a new battery, you’ll likely want to opt for a hybrid vehicle that runs on a longer-lasting battery to avoid having to replace it before you’re ready to sell your vehicle.

2. Regenerative Braking Systems

Alongside their unique battery system, hybrid cars rely on a regenerative braking system that helps recharge the vehicle’s battery during braking, allowing for a longer-lasting battery life. Regenerative braking is more specialized than braking mechanisms in traditional vehicles and can be more expensive to repair. However, the system means less wear on your brake pads, meaning costs of routine brake pad replacement will be reduced.

The costs to repair these braking systems may vary by the repair shop and the type of hybrid you purchase. As a result, you’ll likely want to research the costs of repairing the regenerative braking system of the hybrid you’re interested in buying. You can also check with local automotive shops to see how much they typically charge for regenerative braking system repairs.

3. Cooling Systems

Hybrid cars have additional cooling systems to regulate the temperature in their electrical components. Because of these more specialized systems, the labor and components can be more pricey than traditional vehicles, as there may be fewer technicians in your area who can repair these types of problems. The parts for hybrid vehicle cooling systems can also be harder to obtain, resulting in a higher cost to repair them. 

Before you purchase a hybrid vehicle, check with local repair shops to see how much they charge to repair hybrid cooling systems to make sure the costs fit your budget. 

Hybrid Repairs That Are Comparable to Traditional Repairs

While you’ll likely pay more for some repairs, there are several repairs that cost about the same for hybrid and traditional vehicles. Find out more about the most similarly priced repairs below:

1. Routine Maintenance 

Standard repairs such as oil changes, tire rotation, fluid flushes, and brake pad replacement are all comparable in price to traditional fuel-powered cars. All of these fixes are essential to the basic functionality of your hybrid car, so it’s good news that they aren’t as costly as some more specialized hybrid repairs. 

2. Suspension and Steering

The suspension and steering systems in hybrid cars do not differ that much from gasoline-powered vehicles. If you need some work done on your hybrid vehicle’s steering rack, shocks, or struts, it should run you about the same amount due to a hybrid’s similarity with traditional vehicles. 

3. Body Repairs 

Any kind of body damage caused by accidents, such as paint issues, dents, or bumper repair, is not drastically different in a hybrid car from a traditional vehicle. If you need routine bodywork, you’ll be spending a comparable amount of money.

4. Exhaust System Repairs 

Fixing the exhaust system in a hybrid car versus a fuel-powered vehicle will cost about the same amount at the end of the day. Components like exhaust pipes and mufflers are similar in both types of cars, and even though the systems differ in a few ways, the repairs will be about as expensive.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for all Hybrid Car Repairs Near You in the Triangle

Once you’ve purchased a hybrid vehicle and are looking for hybrid car repairs near you in 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, including hybrids, 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 vehicle services today. If you need a repair for your gas or hybrid vehicle, please make an appointment at one of our 11 Triangle area locations.