An Easy Antifreeze Check Can Avoid Winter Blues Car

Keeping an eye on your vehicle’s antifreeze level during the cold winter months is a simple and inexpensive way to make sure your car won’t leave you stranded. Antifreeze is vital because it is used to cool the car's engine, protecting it from freezing in cold weather, and providing heat inside the car to keep you warm and toasty.

Maintaining your vehicle’s cooling system takes just a few minutes, and is well worth it when you consider that you could be stranded in the cold with an overheated engine. Cooling system failure is the leading cause of engine related breakdowns, which can cost thousands of dollars and leave you and your family stuck at the worst possible time.

Keeping the engine operating within the correct temperature range is the cooling system's job, protecting your engine against damage. More than 27 percent of vehicles checked during National Car Care Month had low levels of coolant while 20 percent needed a coolant flush, which is needed to protect the system from rust, dirt and mineral deposits.

When checking the level of antifreeze/coolant in your vehicle, you will need a few basic tools and an antifreeze ball tester. Make sure the engine and coolant system are cool before you begin. Never open a hot radiator or coolant reservoir/overflow tank as it can cause severe burns. If the antifreeze/coolant is low, add a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. If changed recently, but your antifreeze level is low, use the antifreeze ball tester to make sure the anti-freeze-to-water ratio is correct.

This is also a good time to check for and replace any leaking, brittle, spongy or cracked hoses and to make sure that the radiator hose clamps are tight to prevent leaks at the connections.

The following tasks should be performed by a do-it-yourselfer or professional auto technician to help insure car is ready for winter driving:

• Change oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, depending on what your vehicle manufacturer calls for in the owner's manual; consider changing to a "winter weight" oil if you live in a cold climate. For less wear and tear on the engine, drivers in sub-zero driving temperatures should drop their oil weight from 10-W30 to 5-W30.


• Check the battery for signs of corrosion. Before driving long distances, it is a good idea to have the battery life tested by a professional service technician.
  Make certain the heater/defroster is working properly and keep the gas tank full to minimize the risk of gas line freezing from condensation built up.


• Check tire tread depth and tire pressure; consider snow tires if snow and ice are a problem in your area.


• Check to see that lights work and headlights are properly aimed.


• Replace wiper blades every six months; consider winter blades to keep snow and ice out of the working joints of the blade that prohibit it from fully connecting with your windshield.

Anything we can get for you to keep you safe this winter? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

The 4C’s For Your Car's Winter Driving

Check...
* Your lights - Headlights, taillights, turn signals, reverse lights, and your horn.
* Your antifreeze/coolant - Check levels & if they're still good with easy to use test strips.
* Your tire wear - Not just if there is no tread, but also any sign of uneven wear. It may mean your car has a suspension or alignment problem.
* Your tire pressure - Check your owners manual or door placard for the proper pressures (not the numbers on the side wall). Don’t forget the spare tire! Every 10ºF of outside temperature change – you lose 1 pound of pressure in your tire!
* Your leaks - Check under the hood and where you park for any signs of leaks. These should be repaired ASAP from the time you notice them.
* Your battery - Trouble starting your car? It may be the battery, having it checked might solve this problem during fridged days.
* Your brakes - Brake pedal seem a little soft? Is your vehicle taking to long to stop? Have your brake fluid and brake system checked by a professional ASAP.
* Your oil - It needs to be changed very 3-5000 miles. Check your owner’s manual in the maintenance section. Get a good quality, name brand oil and oil filter. Check it once per month. If the oil looks dark brown, it needs to be changed.
* Your air filter - Air filters need to be changed every 12,000 miles or every 6 months. It’s an easy do-it-yourself task! Be sure to get a quality name brand filter. This will give you better fuel economy and performance.
* Your squeaks - Do your doors squeak? Does your car have mystery squeaks? Have a professional check it out. Something simple like a door hinge may need a little needed lubricant, cold weather plays havok with hinges.
* Your tune-up - Is your car is running rough? Gas mileage seems like it less than it was when it was newer? Now is the time to have a tune-up. Platinum tipped sparks plugs are great!

Change...
* Your winter wiper blades - The protective sleeve will help keep ice and snow out of the joints of the blade thus keeping it on your windshield.
* Your winter washer fluid – De-Icer washer fluid will make your life easier on those real frozen days. It's yellowish color instead of the blue stuff.
* Your snow tires - Even if you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, winter tires are your safest way to travel in bad weather. They are designed for cold weather driving. All season tires are just that, all seasons in average weather, when the snow is deep and the roads are slippery, winter tires make a real safe difference.

Carry...these items in your trunk...
* Jumper cables
* Tire Chains – A great item to carry if the roads get icy or the weather gets out of control.
* Flashlight with new batteries
* Tire inflator
* First aid kit
* Flares and safety triangle
* Protein bars - In case you are stuck and waiting for help.
* Bottled water
* Snow brush with ice scraper
* Blankets
* Cell phone - Inexpensive emergency plans are available.
* Road service card - Especially good if you travel out of town.
* Maps
* Paper towels
* Glass cleaner
* Extra washer fluid
* Work Gloves
* Basic tools

Clean...
* and wax your vehicle at least once a week. Keep the road salt from ruining your car with rust!
* your vehicle and undercarriage to protect your investment. Salt is the a major cause of undercarriage rust.
* your windshields, back window and side windows, headlights and taillights. Snow and Ice on any window is a danger. Please take those few extra minutes to clear your windows to make sure you protect yourself and your family.
* your wiper blades and snow from the top and hood of your car. This just keeps you safe and only takes a few minutes to do.

Anything we can get for you to keep you safe this winter? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

The 100,000 mile 'no tune-up' myth!!

The Bottom Line is repairs are inevitable regardless of what the tune-up interval is supposed to be. Some would say the auto maker's move to 100,000 mile "tune-up" intervals on many new vehicles will finally kill the tune-up as we know it today. Maybe, but what the car makers are really talking about is 100,000 mile spark plug change intervals -- which does not include the need for other tune up type maintenance such as oil and filter changes or other repairs that might be needed during the life of the vehicle.

If the average motorist fails to grasp the true meaning of today's 100,000 mile tune-up and thinks he can get away with gas-and-go driving for 100,000 miles without spending a dime on maintenance or repairs, he'll find out the hard way that lack of proper maintenance can be very costly. Today's vehicles don't require as much maintenance as they used to because things such as idle speed and mixture adjustments, timing adjustments, etc. have been eliminated. So too has the need for chassis lubrication thanks to "sealed-for-life" ball joints and tie rod ends.

Even so, regular oil and filter changes are still necessary to maintain proper engine lubrication. Diayutoparts.com still recommends changing the oil and filter 3,000 miles or every three months. The oil change interval can be stretched out to reduce maintenance costs if a vehicle is driven under ideal conditions (no extremely hot or cold weather, no short trip, stop-and-go driving, no excessive idling, no extremely dusty road conditions, no trailer towing, no turbo charging). But the average driver is more often than not a "severe service" driver and should follow the 3,000 mile change interval.

Today's 100,000 mile tune-up interval also skirts around the issue of fuel and air filter replacement, too. A number of new cars and trucks now have "lifetime" fuel filters, most of which are located inside the fuel tank with the electric fuel pump. Such a filter might go 100,000 miles. Then again, it might not. A couple of tanks of bad gas or some corrosion caused by accumulated moisture can cut short the life of any filter, even a so-called lifetime filter. Sooner or later even a lifetime fuel filter will have to be replaced.

Does it make sense to replace a lifetime in-tank fuel filter for preventative maintenance? Maybe -- if one considers what it costs to have a vehicle towed because of a plugged fuel filter.

As for air filters, the service life depends more on environmental factors rather than time or mileage. If a vehicle is driven on gravel roads, filter life may only be a few months or few thousand miles.

It's pretty unlikely that a set of front disc brake pads will go 100,000 miles in city driving -- 20,000 to 30,000 miles is a more realistic figure. The same goes for belts, hoses, the battery, water pump, exhaust system and many other parts. No vehicle that's yet been built can even come close to going 100,000 miles without needing some type of maintenance or repair.

So don't forget to do regular routine preventative maintenance on your car. This could save you big bucks down the road.

Need auto parts for your DIY project? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

Is your car ready for the cold days of winter?

On a windy cold winter day, the sluggish sound of an automobile that just won't start can be one of the worst sounds imaginable.

The cold weather can turn easy auto repair problems into emergencies. Although dead batteries make up the bulk of an estimated 8.5 million "won't start" calls received each year by the American Automobile Association, these seemingly simple problems can become most irritating and even hazardous when cold weather occurs.

But wintertime doesn't have to be a hassle. Most auto worries can be prevented experts say, with basic automobile maintenance.

Now is the time, car repair experts warn, to check your automobile to ensure safe winter driving. By adhering to the following steps, you can look forward to safe and enjoyable times behind the wheel.

1. Check the engine oil and change it before winter begins, using a thinner grade of oil, such as SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30, in extremely cold weather. Thinner oil allows the starter to rotate the engine faster, while consuming less battery power.


2. Have your battery tested for power because most batteries don't recharge as quickly in cold temperatures. Check and, if necessary, clean corrosion from connections and restore water levels.


3. Check the car's ignition system thoroughly, and if necessary, install new spark plugs. Also, clean or replace spark plug wires to restore peak starts.


4. Proper anti-freeze solution, usually a 50 to 50 antifreeze to water mix is crucial and will ensure protection to 35 degrees below zero. When checking the antifreeze, inspect the cooling system and hoses for any leaks or brittle parts.


5. Don't overlook the lights. Check headlights and tail lights for alignment and brightness. Make sure the brake and hazard lights work properly. Many of todays headlamp are plastic. These plastic headlamps fade and haze over with age, this greatly reduces the intensity of your headlamps. When this happens your headlamps should be replaced. DIY Auto Parts carries inexpensive replacement headlamp assemblies for most vehicles at reasonable prices. If you would like a price on replacement headlamps call our toll free number at 1-800-593-1443. We will be happy to help.


6. To ensure better vision, replace worn windshield wipers and make sure the car's windshield wiper fluid system is full and in proper working order.


7. Don't overlook the owner's manual for car maintenance suggestions. All manuals provide sections for proper car care and most contain "troubleshooter" charts to give owners tips on handling common mishaps.


8. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once every two weeks. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to unsafe road-handling, especially in the snow.
   
9. Try to keep you car clean. Wash the car once a week to protect it from salt and dirt buildup which causes rust, corrosion and paint damage.


10. Remove ice and snow from shoes before entering your car to avoid the risk of slippery pedals.

Need auto parts for your DIY project? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

A Do It Yourself oil change: Not as difficult as you would think.

Actually, it is one of the simplest (and most valuable) operations you can perform on your vehicle. Although it may seem somewhat complicated at first glance, if you follow these simple instructions, you'll discover that it's not as tough as you may have first thought. All you need is oil, a filter, a drain pan of some type, a funnel, a wrench to fit the drain plug, and the appropriate oil filter wrench.

Things Needed For an Oil Change: Oil Filter, 5 quarts of Oil, Oil Drain Pan NOTE: Although many vehicle manufacturers recommend changing the filter at the first oil change and then every other oil change, we recommend changing the filter with each service. Many manufactures also recommend 7500 miles oil change intervals, for maximum engine protection and life, our experts at DIY Auto Parts recommend changing your oil every 3 months or 3000 miles. It is a small price to pay for extra protection.

Oil should always be changed after the engine has been running long enough to bring it up to normal operating temperature. Hot oil will flow more easily and will carry more contaminants than will cold oil. The oil drain plug is located on the bottom of the oil pan (bottom of the engine, underneath the car). The oil filter is usually a spin-on canister located on the bottom or side of most engines. In some instances the filter may be in a replacement cartridge located in a housing on the engine or in the engine oil pan. If you are not sure where your oil filter is located, feel free to give us a call toll free at 1-800-593-1443 and we will be happy to look up your filter location.

To change the oil and filter:

1. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.


2. On most cars, you will have to raise the front of the vehicle and support it safely using a suitable pair of jackstands. Jack stands are inexpensive and are available at Diy Auto Parts. Contact one of our auto parts professionals at 1-800-593-1443 for information and pricing. Alternately, you can use a pair of ramps just be sure to check for adequate clearance between the ramp and any bodywork on the front of the vehicle. Always block the rear wheels and apply your emergency brake. On many trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV's), you may have access without raising your vehicle. The oil will often drain more effectively if the vehicle is level.


3. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Slide a drain pan of a suitable capacity under the oil pan. Wipe the drain plug and surrounding area clean using an old rag.


4. Loosen the drain plug using a ratchet, short extension and socket or a box-wrench. Turn the plug out by hand, using a rag to shield your fingers from the hot oil. By keeping an inward pressure on the plug as you unscrew it, oil won't escape past the threads and you can remove it without being burned by hot oil.


5. Quickly withdraw the plug and move your hands out of the way. Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan, then install and carefully tighten the drain plug. Be careful not to over tighten the drain plug, otherwise you'll be buying a new pan or a replacement plug for stripped threads.
   
   NOTE: If the drain plug is equipped with a removable washer or gasket, check its condition and replace, if necessary, to provide a leak-proof seal.


6. Move the drain pan under the oil filter. With spin-on filters, use a strap-type or cap-type filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter from the engine block.. Keep in mind that it's holding about one quart of hot, dirty oil. On cartridge filters, open the filter housing using an appropriate wrench for access to the filter element.
   
   WARNING: On cartridge type oil filters, pay close attention to any gaskets or O-rings that seal the cover to the housing. They must be in good shape and proper position during assembly or leaks will occur.


7. Empty the old filter into the drain pan and properly dispose of the filter.
   
   NOTE: Some vehicles use cartridge type filters which are actually installed into the bottom of the oil pan.


8. Check that the gasket came off with the filter or cartridge housing. Using a clean rag, wipe off the filter adapter on the engine block. Be sure that the rag doesn't leave any lint which could clog an oil passage or cause a leak.



9. Coat the rubber gasket on the filter with fresh oil, then spin it onto the engine by hand. When the gasket touches the adapter surface, give it another 1/2 - 3/4 turn (but no more, or you'll squash the gasket and it may leak).


10. Refill the engine with the correct amount of fresh oil. Please refer to your owners manual for the correct capacity. Fill the engine slowly, checking the level often.


11. Check the oil level on the dipstick, before the engine is run (and the filter is filled with oil). It is normal for the level to be a slightly above the full mark before starting the vehicle. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes. Check for leaks at the filter and the drain plug. Then turn your engine off, wait 2 or 3 minutes and recheck your oil level. The oil level should be at the full mark.


12. Once your done changing your oil, this is a good time to check the other fluid levels in your car such as anti-freeze, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid and brake fluid. You can also check all of your vehicles exterior lighting and last but not least check your tire pressure. Your owners manual has helpful information on fluid types and specifications and other periodic checks that may be necessary for your car.


13. If you have any questions on routine car maintenance, feel free to give us a call. We also have a Tech Tips sections on our site with many helpful maintenance tips. Our Ask The Expert and Forum sections of the site is a great resource for maintenance and repair information.

Your used oil should be disposed of properly after it is drained from the vehicle. Store the oil in a suitable container and take the container to an official oil recycling station. Most gas stations, retail stores that sell oil and lube facilities will take the used oil at no expense to you.

Need auto parts for your DIY project? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

Winter is here. Are you prepared?

You wouldn't head out into cold weather without bundling up. Your vehicle faces similar challenges as temperatures drop. Your vehicle needs a little extra care as the temperature drops. A little preparation before winter sets in may help prevent major headaches later.


You should always have a heavy-duty ice scraper and snow brush in your vehicle. Cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check tire pressure often. See your owner's manual for directions and details. The cold also affects battery efficiency. Most cold-weather breakdowns occur because batteries aren't delivering full cranking power. Also check to make sure battery cables are corrosion-free.


In severe winter temperatures, you may have to change the grade of your engine oil. Check your vehicle's Owner's Manual for the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle's engine. You should always keep your fuel tank as full as possible in bad weather. This will also keep condensation out of your fuel tank which could cause water to enter your fuel system and freeze. Put on snow tires if you live in major snow belt areas. Four snow tires are better than two. (They do make a difference).


Need auto parts for your DIY project? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.

Holiday travel checkup

With the holiday season quickly approaching, many of us will travel by car to spend the holidays with family and friends. But before packing the car, Diyautoparts.com recommends a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection.


Taking the time to perform vehicle maintenance prior to setting out on a trip or vacation is extremely important because it can help prevent breakdowns, which can put an abrupt end to the vacation and add unexpected expenses. While even an inspection can't guarantee a car's performance, it’s comforting to know proper precautions have been taken.


Whether you do the inspection yourself or visit a professional automotive technician, a comprehensive pre-trip checkup should be completed. The cooling system should be checked for leaks and proper fluid capacity. Belts and hoses should be checked and changed if any evidence of cracking or wear is present. Hoses should be firm and if they have a spongy feel, they should be changed. The brake system should be checked for proper fluid amount and any fluid leaks. Also check for worn or cracked brake pads and shoe linings. Check tire inflation and inspect the tread for uneven wear, indicating the need for wheel alignment. Also look for bulges and bald spots on tires. There are several fluids, in addition to antifreeze and brake fluid that require attention, including engine oil, power steering, transmission fluids and windshield washer solvent. Windshield wipers, lights, horn and mirrors should also be checked and replaced if necessary. If your vehicle’s check engine light is on, your car’s on board computer is telling you there is a problem. A professional repair facility will have the proper diagnostic equipment to tell you why the light is on and what needs to be repaired. Never attempt to take your car on an out of town trip, with a check engine light on. If you do not feel comfortable doing these inspections yourself, most professional repair facilities do pre-trip vehicle inspections at a reasonable cost.


Even if your Holiday Season doesn’t include a long car trip, it’s still a good time to get into the habit of performing annual vehicle maintenance in preparation for the winter months. Happy driving and remember...Have some fun and Do It Yourself.


Need auto parts for your DIY project? Check out our full line auto parts catalog. Questions about this or other DIY auto repairs? In the Ask the Expert section, our professional ASE certified Master Technicians will answer all your automotive type questions. In our Auto Forums section, Do-It-Yourselfers and auto hobbyists talk about their DIY projects or share common problems. Or give us a call @ 1(800)593-1443, we're here during normal business hours; Monday - Friday 8am-5pm EST.