All-Season Tires vs. Winter Tires: Differences & Benefits

winter, all season, tires

All-Season Tires vs. Winter Tires: Differences & Benefits

Having the right tires on your car is critically important, especially during rain, or snow season. There are so many different types of tires on the market today that choosing the best ones can be confusing.

In this blog, we’ll examine two popular types of tires: all-season and winter. While many people think these types of tires are identical, they do have distinct differences.

What Are All Season Tires?

Many cars today leave the factory equipped with all-season tires. In addition to providing a quiet, smooth ride, they perform adequately in most weather conditions and are more than sufficient for drivers who can avoid winter travel on untreated roadways.

The Benefits & Disadvantages of All-Season Tires

Fuel Efficiency of All-Season Tires

All-season tires help optimize fuel economy for both city and highway driving.

All-Season Tires for Electric Vehicles

Many of today’s electric vehicles are equipped with all-season tires.

All-Season Tires in Light Snow and Rain Conditions

All-season tires perform well in moderate weather conditions, such as light snow, and rain.

Temperature Performance of All-Season Tires

An all-season tire’s construction helps it perform well in non-extreme temperatures (hot or cold).

However, they do have some drawbacks, namely that all season tires are not designed for heavy rain, or snow conditions. In these types of weather, they will not grip the road as well as other tire designs.

Additionally, as temperatures fall below 45 degrees, all-season tires are no longer operating within their peak performance range, making road grip and responsiveness less than optimal.

Winter Tires

While winter tires share some similarities with the all-season design, there are some distinct differences.

What are Winter Tires?

Winter tires, also known as snow tires, are specially designed for cold weather and slippery conditions and are ideal for drivers who must drive in extreme weather or on untreated roads. Made from a more flexible rubber compound, Winter tires are designed to deliver peak performance in temperatures below 45°F, Winter tires feature deep grooves and unique tread patterns to provide superior traction on snow, ice, and slush, offering better control and braking.

The Pros & Cons of Winter Tires

Improved Grip on Snow and Ice with Winter Tires

Winter tires utilize a large tread block, and deep groove design, which helps them cut easily through heavy snow and ice.

Braking Performance in Winter Conditions

Because of their specialty tread pattern, winter tires improve braking, as they do not slide as easily as other designs in harsh winter conditions.

Disadvantages of Winter Tires

However, winter tires also have certain limitations, including:

Road Damage

Although made of soft rubber, the tread grip on winter tires can damage asphalt and concrete. This is especially true if they come equipped with studs for extra traction.

Poor Handling of Winter Tires

The primary purpose of winter tires is to grip the road, not take sharp corners. Due to their construction and tread design, they do not handle as well as other tires do.

Soft Rubber = Increased Wear

Because winter tires are made from soft rubber, they tend to wear out more quickly. This is especially true if they are driven on dry roads in temperatures above 45°F, which prematurely shortens the life span of their special tread patterns. It is quite common for consumers to purchase winter tires along with a set of winter wheels so they can easily change back to all-season, or summer performance tires as soon as extreme winter weather is unlikely.

Car-X Can Help You Choose the Right Tires!

Choosing the right tire for your vehicle will depend on where you live, the area’s climate, your driving habits, and other important factors.

No matter where you call home, you can count on the pros at Car-X to help you select the right tire for your specific situation. We carry a large inventory of top brands and are your one-stop tire solution. Give us a call or stop in today to learn more about your tire options.

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Top 5 Reasons Why Your Steering Wheel Won’t Turn

steering wheel turning

Problems with Your Steering Wheel? We’ve got the Answer

There’s nothing worse than realizing your steering wheel isn’t turning right or is simply not turning at all. When these issues arise, it’s important to remember that there is usually a simple explanation and there’s no need to worry.

That being said, it is important to understand why your steering wheel isn’t turning, which is why the experts at Car-X Tire & Auto have put together the top five reasons why your steering wheel might not be turning, so you can feel more confident in your car.

For more thorough advice, visit a Car-X location today to get your vehicle inspected by our team of knowledgeable service mechanics.

5 Reasons Why Your Steering Wheel Might Not Be Turning

Before you let stress overtake you, here are five reasons why your steering wheel might not be turning and tips for fixing each issue.

  • Hydraulic Failure Causing Steering Wheel Issues

A popular reason behind steering wheel turning issues is actually low power steering fluid. As the power steering system relies on hydraulic pressure to help turn the wheel, low power steering fluid can lead to the system failing to produce enough pressure, which can then lead to problems with turning.

A power steering pump or slipping drive belt can be the root cause for steering wheel issues as it is essential for providing hydraulic assistance to the steering system. Over time, these pumps can often wear out or become damaged, which can then lead to an immobile steering wheel.

How to Fix it

Check the power steering fluid reservoir to see if it’s low. If this becomes a recurrent issue and you find yourself frequently refilling the fluid, there may be a leak in the system that needs to be addressed by a mechanic.  A power steering pump or slipping drive belt issue will require a consult with a mechanic in order to either diagnose or replace the old pump.

  • Electronic Failure Causing Steering Wheel Issues

Most vehicles manufactured today receive power steering assistance from an electric motor rather than a belt driven hydraulic pump.  This system relies on a network of sensors, wiring, and connectors to operate satisfactorily.  If any of these components become compromised, steering could be affected.

How to Fix it

Schedule a consultation with a qualified mechanic who has experience servicing electronic steering systems.

  • Steering Gear Problems Causing a Stiff Steering Wheel

If you’re having issues with your steering wheel, another reason might be bent or binding components within your steering gear or rack and pinion. This mechanism is the middle-man between your steering wheel and the movement of the front wheels, which means that if it stops working as designed by the manufacturer, you can often get a stiff or unresponsive steering wheel.

How to Fix it

For steering gear issues, we recommend having a professional mechanic inspect the steering gear for any problems and replace or repair it as needed.

  • Misaligned Wheels Affecting Steering Wheel Turning

Another incredibly common reason behind a stuck steering wheel is an improperly aligned vehicle – usually due to bent suspension components as the result of contact with curbs or potholes. Misaligned wheels will eventually cause uneven tire wear, leading to further steering wheel difficulties.

How to Fix it

A tire and alignment specialist can help correct any alignment issues your vehicle is having, ensuring your steering wheel is turning as it should.

  • Frozen or Damaged Steering Column Causing Stuck Steering Wheel

While rare, in areas with very cold weather it is possible for the joints in your steering column to freeze leading to a steering wheel that is difficult or impossible to turn. The more common issue is steering column joints that simply have wear-and-tear or damage.

How to Fix it

In the instance where your steering column is frozen, make sure your vehicle is properly warmed up. For a damaged or worn steering column, we recommend speaking with a professional mechanic for repairs or replacement.

Get Expert Help for Steering Wheel Issues at Car-X Tire & Auto

When your steering wheel is giving you issues, there’s no need to stress! The expert and knowledgeable mechanic team at Car-X Tire & Auto can take care of all your vehicle issues right away. We’ll work directly with you to solve the problem and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

View our services today or request a quote and get your car back to normal in no time.

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Will My Battery Last This Winter? Car Battery Maintenance

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Will My Battery Last This Winter? Essential Winter Car Battery Maintenance

Of all the components on your car, the battery is one of the most important. It is responsible for storing the needed energy to start the engine. All extreme weather can be hard on car batteries, but this is especially true during the winter time.

At the freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, a car battery can lose up to 35% of its power. As temperatures drop, the power loss is even greater. In this blog, we will take a look at how to get the most out of your battery this winter season.

How Cold Weather Affects Car Batteries

When a battery is called upon to start a car, the chemical energy is transformed into electricity. Once the car is running, the alternator produces the electricity it needs to run the engine, and power all of the vehicle’s lights and accessories.

Cold weather has a detrimental effect on car batteries in several ways. Lower temperatures strain the chemical reactions that take place in a battery to produce electricity. In addition, engines are more difficult to physically turn over when it’s cold, so a battery must work harder than it does in warmer weather.

Three Ways to Maximize Your Battery’s Winter Performance

If you are concerned about your car battery making it through the cold months of winter, here are three great tips to keep in mind.

  • Test Your Battery’s Strength for Winter

A qualified repair shop can test your battery to see how strong it will be for the colder months ahead. They will perform what is known as a “load test”, which simulates the typical strain a battery endures when starting an engine. If the battery passes the load test, chances are good that it will survive the winter just fine.

  • Clean Battery Terminals to Prevent Corrosion

One of the most common reasons a battery fails in the winter is due to corroded terminals.

Over time, hydrogen gases in the battery will mix with air and moisture, causing a baking soda like substance to form on the terminals. This corrosion breaks down the electrical connection between the battery and the clamps.

Cleaning your posts and clamps will ensure the battery can transfer its full power to the starter motor. If you are not sure how to clean your battery posts, a repair shop can do it for you. The shop will also put a protective coating on the terminals and clamps to help prevent corrosion in the future.

  •  Avoid Draining Your Battery with Accessories and Lights

One of the best things you can do to protect your battery in the wintertime is to make sure all interior lights and accessories are off when you leave the car. In addition, don’t leave your highlights on, which can quickly drain a battery too.

Car-X Can Help Get Your Cars Battery Ready for Winter!

We all rely on our vehicles to perform well all year long. Wintertime can be rough on car batteries. Don’t get stuck out in the cold! Let the friendly pros at Car-X test your battery, and clean your terminal connections if needed to get it ready for the winter months.

For over 50 years, Car-X has been keeping our customers’ cars rolling down the road. Let us be your year-round, one-stop car repair and maintenance solution!

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Understanding Your Car’s Exhaust System

Understanding Your Car’s Exhaust Systemmuffler exhaust

Your car’s exhaust system is one of its most critical components, not only for proper engine performance, but also for the safety of passengers riding in the vehicle.

In this blog, let’s look at the main parts of a car’s exhaust system, how they work, and what you need to know to detect any potential problems.

What is a Car Exhaust System and Why is it Important?

The purpose of a modern vehicle’s exhaust system is to capture burnt gases from the engine, filter pollutants, quiet engine noise, and prevent any fumes from entering the car’s cabin. Here are its four main components.

The Main Components and Functions of a Car’s Exhaust System:

Exhaust Manifold

The exhaust manifold connects the car’s engine to the rest of the exhaust system. As fuel is burned for power, the engine releases spent gases into the manifold, which sends it back to the tailpipe and into the atmosphere.

Catalytic Converter

All cars sold in the U.S. since 1975 have been equipped with a catalytic converter. Vehicle exhaust contains toxic substances, including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxide. Catalytic converters utilize precious metals such as palladium, platinum, and rhodium to remove up to 90% of an exhaust’s poisonous gases before they leave a car’s tailpipe.

Muffler

Simply put, the muffler has one main job, and that is to quiet the noise coming from the car’s engine. Mufflers also produce needed back pressure, which is required for proper vehicle performance. If you notice your car is suddenly getting louder, it might be time for a new muffler.

Tailpipe

A car’s tailpipe is also an important part of the exhaust system, as it is where the car’s engine fumes are released into the air. It’s critical that your vehicle’s tailpipe is in good condition, and does not allow engine exhaust to enter the car’s cabin.

Signs Your Car Exhaust System Needs Maintenance or Repair:

The exhaust system plays a vital role in the safe operation of your vehicle. If you should experience any of the following, be sure to have your car inspected by a qualified repair shop.

Loss of Engine Power – This could indicate a clog in the exhaust system or a loose component.

Vibration – If a pipe clamp is rusted, or needs to be tightened, a loud vibration might be heard inside the vehicle.

Progressively Loud Engine Noise – A broken or worn-out muffler will cause a car’s engine to become increasingly louder as you drive.

Smoke – If you notice blue, or an excessive amount of white smoke coming from your car’s exhaust, it could indicate an engine problem. Having it checked out by a mechanic is advisable.

Increased Fuel Consumption – A semi-clogged catalytic converter can decrease fuel efficiency.

Importance of Regular Exhaust System Maintenance

 Each time you have your car serviced, be sure to ask the mechanic shop to take a look at the vehicle’s exhaust system.

In addition to performing a maintenance inspection, the technicians can determine if any exhaust leaks, rust, damage, loose clamps, or other potential issues with the muffler, or tailpipe are present. Having a properly operating exhaust system is key to ensuring your car is safe and reliable.

Car-X is Here to Help!

 For more than 50 years, the pros at Car-X have kept our customers safe, no matter where life’s road takes them. If you notice any issues with your car’s exhaust system, stop by your nearest Car-X for a free inspection. Our highly trained mechanics and technicians will get you back on your way in no time. Visit us today!

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Car Air Bags & Child Safety | Vehicle Air Bag Safety Tips

Air Bags & Child Safetyairbag safety

In the U.S., every car, SUV, van and truck manufactured since 1998 is equipped with air bag safety technology. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, 50,000 lives have been saved over a 30-year period because of air bags.

Car and Vehicle Air Bags: What Parents Need to Know

While there is no doubt air bag technology has played a huge role in helping to make automobile travel safer, there are some important things to know about them, particularly when it comes to children riding in vehicles.

In this blog, let’s take a look at air bags, how they work, and what you can do to ensure that children riding in your car are as safe as possible.

The History of Air Bags in Cars

The concept of an air bag actually dates back to the 1950’s and 60’s, but the technology available at the time made them impractical. By the 1980’s, there were great advancements in air bag design and functionality, and a decade later, they were standard in all U.S. vehicles.

How Vehicle Air Bags Work and Protect Passengers in a Crash

The basic idea of an air bag is simple. During a collision, it is designed to rapidly inflate, preventing people from slamming into a vehicle’s interior components, such as the dashboard, or windshield.

In today’s most modern cars, air bags are not only located in the steering wheel and passenger dashboard areas, but also on the sides and lower portions of a vehicle’s cabin. Based on the type of collision and impact point, a car’s sensors will determine which airbags would be best to deploy in the protection of passengers. Upon deployment, they inflate incredibly fast in order to cushion the physical blow that people experience during an accident.

Car Air Bags and Children

Air bags have proven to be highly effective in helping to prevent serious injury in adults, but they can be dangerous to young children and babies. Because of their smaller stature, child passengers can be severely injured or killed when impacted by exploding air bag.

How to Keep Children Safer with Vehicle Air Bags

The good news is adults can take proactive steps to help make car travel safer for young children with respect to airbags. The following is important information to know.

Car Air Bag Safety for Infants, Toddlers, and Older Children

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, all children under the age of 13 should ride in the backseat of vehicles. Depending on age, they need to be either secured by seat belts, or placed in a car seat, or booster seat appropriate for their size and weight.

 Infants & Toddlers

Rear facing car seats should always be used for infants and toddlers. It is best to continue this practice until a child reaches the height and weight limitations for their specific car seat.

Car Seat and Seat Belt Guidelines for Preschoolers and Older Children

Children who have outgrown a rear facing car seat, should ride in a front facing seat, secured with the seat belt, and a harness attached to a back-anchor clip. This practice should be followed until a child outgrows the seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Older children should always ride in the back until the age of 13, or when reaching the age of 9, be 4’ 9” in height, and at least 80 pounds.

Whether it be front or back, older children need to be securely fastened by their lap and shoulder belts, properly adjusted for their size.

For parents who need help installing car seats, many police and fire departments offer car seat clinics, where they offer to install and secure a car seat for no charge.

Car-X Cares About Your Safety

For over 50 years, it has been the mission of Car-X to keep our customers and their cars safely on the road. Air bags are a proven safety technology, but parents need to follow established guidelines regarding them and children.

When your car needs repair or maintenance services, Car-X is your single source solution. Give us a call today! We’ll help keep you moving down the road!

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Common Car Repairs You Should Not Do Yourself

Mechanic Car Repairs

5 Common Car Repairs You Should Not Do Yourself

Years ago, passenger cars were much simpler to repair, or maintain than they are today. This is why some drivers in decades past worked on their own vehicles. Modern automobiles, however, are extremely complex machines, requiring specialized tools, training, and experience to repair them.

While it is tempting for some car owners to try to save time and money by repairing their own vehicles, it is not advisable. People who work on cars, but are not qualified to can jeopardize not only their safety, but also the welfare of other motorists on the road.

In this blog, let’s look at 5 common car repairs that you should not do yourself.

Common Car Repairs by Mechanics

Brake Repair

A car’s brakes seem pretty simple. You press the pedal, and the vehicle stops. However, what is behind that process in modern cars is extremely complex. Brakes are made up of many individual components, all working together. These include brake pads, calipers, rotors, brake fluid, electronic sensors, motors, and a master cylinder.

With the introduction of Automated Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), your car’s brakes are likely part of a network of computer modules, electronic sensors, motors, and software that run the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Lane Departure System (LDS) or Collision Avoidance Systems. Many of these safety features require post repair calibration to operate correctly.  Because a vehicle’s braking system is such a critical part of its safety features, be sure to have a qualified technician repair it.

Transmission Repair      

Automobile transmissions have always been complicated, but this is especially true today. Because modern transmissions are part of the powertrain control network, classic symptoms like slipping, erratic or hard shifting are generally not transmission malfunctions but rather a sensor providing incorrect data to the powertrain control module and/or transmission control module. Discovering the root cause of these symptoms usually requires advanced specialized training.

In fact, not all mechanics are qualified to do it. If you sense your transmission is slipping, or not shifting correctly, be sure to take the car to a technician who is qualified to diagnose the problem and fix it.

Engine Diagnostics

Today’s vehicles have multiple onboard computers that help monitor and control their performance. If the  Check Engine light appears on your dashboard, this is your car letting you know that something needs attention.

Well-meaning parts store employees can plug a diagnostic reader into a port under the dash and learn from a series of codes why your engine light is glowing. While some people try to interpret a code by looking it up on the internet, correctly repairing the issue is an entirely different skill set. A qualified technician will use specialized tools to analyze which sensors are reporting outside of their acceptable parameters then perform tests to discover why it is occurring.  Pro Tip: The root cause is generally not the sensor which illuminated the “check engine light”.

Car Electrical Repair

 Automobile electrical systems are more complicated today than any other period in the history of vehicle manufacturing. The science of electricity hasn’t changed since Ben Franklin flew his kite in a thunderstorm. But the strategies employed to control nearly every component of a modern car is changing with every model year.  Even simple light bulb functionality requires knowledge of advanced electronic networks.

Be sure to take your car to an experienced, trained mechanic to address any electrical system problems.

Suspension Repair   

Like your car’s braking system, its front and rear suspension play a critical role in keeping you safe.

They are designed to support the weight of the car as it travels down the road. In addition, your car’s steering is dependent upon the front suspension operating properly.

Over time, a vehicle’s suspension parts will wear, and need to be replaced. Because your safety is literally riding on your car’s suspension, be sure it is serviced by people who have been formally trained to repair, perform an alignment and calibrate any affected sensors such as SAS.

Car Starter Issues

One of the most often used components on your car’s engine is the starter. Without it, your vehicle won’t be taking you anywhere.

Starters in most modern cars are attached to the engine in hard-to-reach spots. In addition, many vehicles require that other parts be removed before the starter can be accessed. If your starter is not performing as it should, be sure to take the car to a qualified mechanic who can fix it properly.

When to Consult a Mechanic: Key Signs to Watch For

You should consult your mechanic if you experience any of these common car problems.

  • Grinding sounds, or poor stopping performance from the brakes.
  • Transmission shifting issues.
  • The “Check Engine” light comes on.
  • Something goes wrong with the electrical system.
  • The car begins to ride rough, or not steering like it should.
  • The starter will not engage the engine.

Car-X is Here to Help with Car Repairs!

You rely on your vehicle to keep up with your busy lifestyle. For more than 50 years, the highly knowledgeable team at Car-X has been helping our customers stay safe out on the road.

Whether it be for any type of repair or preventative maintenance, you can count on us to take care of it promptly. Visit your local Car-X shop today!

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Can My Flat Tire Be Fixed?

At some time or another, most people will experience a flat tire on their car. Flats can happen for a variety of reasons, and the good news is that in most cases, tires that have gone flat can be repaired. However, not all tires can be repaired.flat tire

In this blog, let’s take a look at the various ways a flat tire can be repaired, when it can’t, and the importance of having a good quality spare should you ever need it.

Why Do Car Tires Go Flat?

Car and truck tires can go flat for a number of reasons, including:

  • Punctures from a nail, bolt or glass in the tread area.
  • Broken bead.
  • Faulty valve stem.
  • Damage to the tire’s sidewall.

Punctures

There are many objects in the street or highway that can cause a tire puncture. If a sharp object has torn a hole in the tread of your tire, it can usually be repaired.

One- & Two-Piece Patches

A highly effective way to repair a punctured tire is with a patch. Today, there are both one piece and two-piece patches available. A qualified technician will be able to determine which type of patch should be utilized.

With patches, it’s important to know that the location of a tire puncture can only be in the area known as the crown. The crown is defined as the region between the shoulders of the tire.

The angle at which the tire injury occurred will determine whether a one piece or two-piece patch should be used. If the injury angle is less than 25-degrees, a one-piece patch repair can be made. Tires that have a puncture angle of more than 25-degrees require a two-piece patch.

 Sidewall Damage Cannot be Repaired 

When inflated, tires are under a tremendous amount of pressure, especially around the sidewall area. If a tire experiences damage to the sidewall, it cannot be repaired safely. Tires with sidewall damage must be replaced.

 Broken Beads

The bead is the seal between the tire and the edge of the rim that is designed to keep air from escaping. Age, weather conditions, or hitting a big pot hole can cause a tire’s bead to fail. A qualified tire technician can remove the tire from the rim, clean both thoroughly and apply a special bead sealer adhesive. Once dry, the tire can be re-inflated and put back on the car.

Broken Valve Stems

The valve stem is mounted into a tire’s rim and allows for the filling and releasing of air. If a valve stem is broken or faulty, it will not hold air. Valve stems can be easily replaced by a qualified technician.

Everything You Need to Know About Spare Tires

Nobody really thinks about their car’s spare tire, until they need to use it! Be sure to check the air pressure in your spare tire every time you check the rest of the tires. Be sure to follow the instructions on the spare tire with regard to inflation limits.

While some cars have full size spares, many vehicles today have what are known as “space savers” or “donut spares”. These types of spare tires are much smaller than your car’s regular tires, and should only be used for a very limited amount of time and miles. No matter what kind of spare tire you have, be sure it is in good condition, has adequate tread, and properly inflated.

Car-X is Your One Stop Tire Solution!

Car-X has been providing quality, reliable automotive services since 1971. Maintaining your tires is important to do all year long. If you have a flat tire, our experienced team can get you back on the road in no time. We also carry a large selection of brand name tires at a great price should you need them.

Call Car-X today and schedule an appointment for all of your tire repair or replacement needs! 

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Catalytic Converters

For nearly fifty years, the catalytic converter has been an essential componentcatalytic converter, parts, function, works of an automobile’s emission and exhaust system. These devices have also been in the news in recent years, as they are frequently stolen from the underneath of cars.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

First appearing onto the automotive scene around 1975, a catalytic converter is an oval-shaped device that is connected to a car’s exhaust system. The converter receives toxic gasses from a car’s engine, and transforms it into less harmful pollutants. This is accomplished through a chemical reaction process inside the unit.

What is the Purpose of a Catalytic Converter?

The principle purpose of a catalytic converter is to reduce the amount of emission pollution a gasoline or diesel engine produces while running. Starting in the 1970s, many people were becoming concerned about the air quality in populated areas, as it related to the amount of pollution automobiles were producing.

Where is the Catalytic Converter Located on a Car?

The catalytic converter is normally located about halfway down a car’s exhaust pipe, between the engine and the vehicle’s muffler.

How Do Catalytic Converters Work?

When a car’s exhaust gases travel through a heated catalytic converter, several chemical reactions take place that reduce the amount of toxic fumes the vehicle emits into the air.

What is Inside a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter has multiple components within its metal container that make it work. When heated, a ceramic material, known as a substrate provides a suitable surface area for the unit’s chemical reactions to take place.

The precious metals Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd), and Rhodium (Rh) are also contained in the device, which are responsible for the chemical reaction that cleans a car’s exhaust before it is released into the atmosphere.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Stolen?

catalytic converter, stolen, theft Catalytic converters are often stolen because they contain the precious metals, Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd), and Rhodium (Rh). After removing the converter from a car, thieves extract these valuable metals from the device and sell them. These metals are considered rare, as they are mined mostly in South Africa and Russia.[/caption]

Criminal activity involving catalytic converters has skyrocketed in recent years, partly due to supplies being adversely affected by the worldwide Covid Pandemic.

How Are Catalytic Converters Stolen?

Stealing a catalytic converter from a vehicle is not easy. Thieves climb under a car with a reciprocating saw and cut the unit off the exhaust system. This process is extremely noisy, but only takes several minutes to do.

Are Catalytic Converter Thefts Covered By Insurance?

If an auto owner has Comprehensive coverage on their policy, the theft of a catalytic converter would be covered.

What To Do If Your Catalytic Converter is Stolen

Should you become the unfortunate victim of a catalytic converter theft, the first thing to do is remain calm. Call the police and file a report. It is also important to alert your insurance company about the theft that has occurred.

Car-X Can Help

Your friendly, local Car-X Tire & Auto can help if your catalytic converter is stolen from your vehicle. Our experienced technicians will replace the unit and restore your car’s exhaust system back to normal operation. We’ve been helping motorists with all types of car repairs since 1971, and we are here to assist you too.

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What’s the Difference Between Conventional vs. Semi-Synthetic Oil?

When it comes to the maintenance of vehicles, motor oil, and oil changes areSynthetic oil change, conventional oil change, best oil for my vehicle imperative. Motor oil is essential for properly lubricating a car’s engine, at all temperatures and speeds.

There are many different types of motor oil on the market today, including conventional, synthetic, and semi-synthetic blends.  No matter what kind of car you have or its age, it’s important to know the right kind of oil to use, so your vehicle can operate at top performance and provide many years of reliable service.

Different Types of Motor Oil

Let’s look at the different types of oil used in cars on the road today.

Conventional Oil

Conventional oil is a refined crude oil, and compared to other oil types, it generally has fewer additives. Conventional oil is recommended for older vehicles and those seeking the least expensive option.

Full- Synthetic Oil

Unlike conventional oil, which is made of crude oil, synthetic oil is entirely manufactured, so its formula is always the same and helps with vehicle performance. The chemical properties in fully synthetic oil have been refined, removing impurities and adding properties that will benefit fuel and engine efficiency. Synthetic oil is recommended for high-performance vehicles, and although it is more expensive, it will allow for less frequent oil changes than conventional oil.

It is important to know that not all cars can run properly on full-synthetic oil. Be sure to refer to your owner’s manual for proper guidance.

Semi-Synthetic Oil

Semi-synthetic oil, or a synthetic blend oil, combines both full synthetic oil and conventional oil. While this mixture generally has more conventional oil than synthetic oil, it does get the beneficial additives of synthetic oil that help protect the engine. This type of motor oil is less expensive than full synthetic, making it a more economical choice.

Be sure to check your car’s specifications for the right oil to use.

How To Know Which Motor Oil Is Best?

The advantage of a conventional oil is the cost. And for older vehicles, it is best and provides the best engine protection and lubrication for aging engines.

Synthetic oil is made of properties that prevent corrosion and is designed to protect today’s high tech engines. It’s more expensive than conventional oil, but is a necessity for many newer cars.

Synthetic-blend oil is a good middle of the road option, as it combines both conventional and synthetic blends together. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual about whether your car was designed to utilize a hybrid blend such as this one.

Car-X is Your One Stop Auto Repair Solution

Car-X has been providing quality, reliable automotive service since 1971. Proper maintenance and service of your vehicle can make a big difference in providing you with many miles of trouble-free driving.

Call Car-X today and schedule an appointment for an oil change on your vehicle! We make the process easy and fast!

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Should I Have My Car Inspected? 6 Great Reasons To Do It

Vehicle InspectionModern cars are extremely complex machines, with many systems and components working together to make your vehicle operate at top performance. As cars age and accumulate miles, it is very important they be regularly inspected to ensure safety and proper operation. In fact, 15 states in the U.S. legally require that cars be inspected to be permitted on roads and highways.

So, should you have your car inspected? The answer is certainly, yes! Let’s take a look at 6 critical systems on your vehicle that should be inspected at regular intervals.

Brakes

The brake system is one of the most critical safety components on your vehicle. Every car owner’s brake system will require maintenance at some point, as regular driving will begin to wear brake pads, shoes, and sometimes rotors, drums, or calipers.

Visit a qualified auto repair facility to ensure that your brakes are working as they should. The shop will do a visual inspection of the brake system and a test drive to determine if the brakes are performing as they were designed to do.

Steering Components

Your car’s steering system is made up of numerous components, working together so the vehicle can safety turn and travel down the road. When parts such as tie rods, idler arms, pitman arms. drag links, or other components become worn or damaged, your car will not steer as well as it should.

Not only can worn steering parts affect vehicle safety, but cause premature tire wear.

An inspection by a reputable repair shop can identify any potential issues with your car’s steering system.

Engine

Has the check engine light on your car’s dashboard suddenly come on? This could be an indication that your vehicle needs attention. Repair shops today have software-based diagnostic tools that can determine why the check engine light is on.

In addition, as cars age, gaskets can leak, causing fluid loss from the oil pan, transmission, or cooling system.

If you notice motor oil or other fluids on the ground where you park your car, bring it to a repair shop for an evaluation. An inspection can quickly determine where leaking fluids are coming from, so the shop can offer a solution to repair the problem.

Fuel System

For nearly all cars today, gone are the days of simple carburetors and fuel delivery systems. Modern fuel systems are extremely complex, and if not working properly, can affect both driving performance and safety.

In addition, like any other component of your car, fuel systems can get dirty over time. An experienced repair facility can inspect it to ensure the system is performing properly.

Filters

Your car has a number of filters that help it operate at top performance. When air or cabin filters become dirty, they can affect both performance and comfort as you drive. If you have not had your car’s filters changed or inspected for some time, have a repair shop look at them as soon as possible.

Tires

When it comes to the old expression “where the rubber hits the road”, your car’s tires are what connect it to the streets you drive on. Over time, tires experience tread wear or can be damaged by potholes.

Be sure to have a qualified repair shop inspect your tires to ensure they are inflated properly, have a safe amount of tread left, and are in good condition.

 Car-X is Your One Stop Vehicle Inspection Solution!

Car-X has been providing quality, reliable automotive services since 1971. When it’s time to have your car inspected for safety and performance, you can count on the pros at Car-X to help!

Our experienced technicians will make sure your vehicle is safe and performing as it should.

Call the Car-X Man and schedule an appointment for your vehicle. Let us help you enjoy many miles of trouble-free driving.

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