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.

Ultimate Guide to Car and Vehicle Alignment

The Importance of Vehicle Alignment

Maintaining your vehicle’s alignment is a critical aspect of car care that often goes overlooked. Proper wheel alignment not only ensures a smoother and safer ride but also plays a key role in extending the lifespan of your tires and improving fuel efficiency.

In this ultimate vehicle alignment guide, we’ll delve into the importance of vehicle alignment and how Car-X can help keep your vehicle in top-shape with expert routine vehicle maintenance services.

What is Vehicle Alignment?

Let’s start with understand what vehicle alignment actually is. Vehicle alignment is the adjustment of a vehicle’s suspension system, which connects the wheels to the vehicle. Proper alignment ensures that all four wheels are parallel and that they make consistent contact with the road.

Common Signs of Misalignment

Recognizing the signs of misalignment is crucial in addressing the issue promptly. Some common indicators include uneven tire wear, a steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight, drifting or pulling to one side, and a vibrating steering wheel.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a trusted tire and auto retailer.

Vehicle Alignments Impacts Your Car

Vehicle alignment is a crucial factor in maintaining the overall health and performance of your car. Beyond preserving your tires, correct alignment enhances fuel efficiency by minimizing rolling resistance and optimizing your vehicle’s handling. Importantly, a well-aligned vehicle contributes to overall road safety, providing better control and responsiveness.

Ignoring alignment issues can lead to a variety of mishaps. Here are three important impacts of vehicle alignments.

Tire Wear

One of the most significant effects of misalignment is uneven tire wear. When your wheels are not properly aligned, certain areas of the tire bear more weight than others, leading to premature wear and reduced tire lifespan.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

Proper wheel alignment contributes to better fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels create additional resistance, causing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. By keeping your vehicle’s wheels aligned, you can save money on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint.

Vehicle Safety

Maintaining proper alignment is crucial for your safety on the road. Misaligned wheels can affect your car’s handling and responsiveness, especially in emergency situations. An alignment service can help ensure that your vehicle performs optimally, providing you with a safer driving experience.

Get Vehicle Alignment Services at Car-X Today

At Car-X, we take pride in offering state-of-the-art alignment services using cutting-edge technology and skilled technicians. Whether it’s a routine alignment check or correcting a significant misalignment, Car-X has the expertise and equipment to get the job done efficiently.

Whether you’re looking to a vehicle alignment service, ABS repair, a safety inspection, or a tune-up, our technicians are available to help you whenever you need it. Schedule a visit to Car-X today and experience the difference that expert alignment services can make for your car.

Understanding 5 Essential Components of Your Car’s Brake System

A car’s brake system is crucial for safety, and understanding its components can help you maintain your vehicle.

All drivers should be aware that a car’s brakes are one of its most important safety systems. As automobiles have evolved, brake design and functionality have gotten more complicated.

As a motorist, it’s important to understand how your car’s brakes work, so you can always keep them in top operating condition. In this blog, let’s look at 5 major components of car brake systems, and the roles they play in safely stopping the vehicle as you drive.

Car Brake Systems

Car brake systems are comprised of hydraulic brakes, mechanical brakes, and advanced technologies like anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Understanding the different types can help you make informed maintenance decisions.

Master Cylinder

The master cylinder is a reservoir that holds the car’s hydraulic brake fluid. This device is connected to steel brake lines that distribute brake fluid to each wheel.
When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure from the fluid is sent through the brake lines to the brake calipers. The calipers squeeze brake pads within them and contact the metal brake rotors on each wheel. The friction generated by the calipers, pads, and rotors is what slows the car down.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid converts the physical force of pushing down on the brake pedal to hydraulic pressure and finally mechanical force. As the master cylinder sends the pressurized brake fluid through the brake lines, it moves the calipers and brake pads to stop the car. Stopping the car requires a energy conversion from motion to heat. Normal operating temperatures can reach 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s very important to ensure your car’s master cylinder has the proper amount of brake fluid in it and that it is free of impurities. Like the other critical fluids that make a car work properly, brake fluid has a replacement a service interval. There are several different types of brake fluid sold on the market today, so be sure you know which kind your car requires.

Calipers

A caliper is a clamping device on each wheel that holds the brake pads in place. When the brake pedal is pressed, the master cylinder sends fluid to each wheel caliper, which presses the pads onto the brake rotors. This combined action starts the process of stopping the car. Calipers are subjected to extreme heat and over time will stop performing as they should. The best way to extend caliper life is to follow your car’s brake fluid replacement service interval.

Brake Pads

Brake pads are metallic plates that fit on the inside walls of each brake caliper. When the brake pedal is pushed, the calipers extend the pads onto the brake rotors, causing friction, which stops the car.
Under normal driving conditions, brake pads can last for thousands of miles. However, they do eventually wear, and will need to be replaced to ensure the brakes continue to work properly.
** Note: Instead of calipers and brake pads on all four wheels, some cars today still utilize brake drums, wheel cylinders, and brake shoes in the rear. This equipment is slightly different, but the stopping principle is the same.

ABS System

Nearly all modern cars are equipped with ABS technology, sometimes referred to as anti-lock braking. Your car has an onboard computer that monitors the vehicle for what is known as wheel lock (when the wheels seize up from excessively hard braking).
Should wheel lock be detected, the ABS system will release and apply the brakes about 10 times per second. This is much faster than any human could manually perform. ABS systems are designed to help drivers maintain steering control, and maximize stopping in a sudden, hard braking situation.

Car-X is your One Stop Brake Shop Solution!

For over 50 years, Car-X has kept customers safe on the road with our complete car repair services. When it comes to your brakes, make sure they are working as they should! Come in and take advantage of our free, no obligation brake inspection service.

Our experts will inspect your brakes, and let you know if there is anything that might be needed.

Join the many thousands of drivers each year who trust their car repair needs to Car-X! Give us a call today!

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Why Regular Oil Changes are Critical

The Significance of Regular Oil Changes for Your Vehicle

As a driver it’s crucial to grasp the significance of oil changes. Oil changes rank among the simple maintenance tasks you can carry out for your car. Consistent upkeep plays a role in prolonging your vehicle’s lifespan and ensuring its operation. In this blog post we will delve into the importance of oil changes, indications that your car requires an oil change, recommended frequency for oil changes, and the advantages of routine vehicle maintenance.

The Importance of Regular Oil Changes
Oil is essential for maintaining engine performance by minimizing friction and controlling heat. Over time oil becomes contaminated with dirt and debris leading to reduced efficiency and potential harm to engine components. Regular oil changes help sustain a normal level of oil to keep your engine in top notch condition.

Signs that Indicate Your Car Requires an Oil Change
There are some signs to suggest that it’s time for an oil change. These signs include:

Odd engine noises
Presence of oil leaks
Noticeable burnt oil smell

Moreover, if your vehicle is not performing up to par or experiencing a decrease in fuel efficiency it may be time to consider getting an oil change.

Frequency of Oil Changes
The frequency you should change your oil depends on the make and model of your vehicle and the oil used, but most vehicles generally require an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However it is always recommended to consult your owner’s manual for maintenance guidelines. If you frequently drive in conditions such as hot weather, dusty roads or stop and go traffic – you might need more frequent oil changes.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring that your vehicle operates efficiently and helps prevent costly repairs down the line. This includes oil and oil filter changes, brake inspections and electrical checks. By adhering to maintenance schedules, potential issues can be identified, leading to savings in both money and time in the long term. Additionally, regularly maintained vehicles tend to save on fuel costs while enhancing road safety by reducing the likelihood of breakdowns.

Kinds of Oil

Conventional Motor Oil
Conventional motor oil has its origins in crude oil that is pumped from the ground and processed. A base oil is produced to which additives are added, changing the properties of the oil to give it viscosity, protection properties, and improved heat breakdown levels.

Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Synthetic motor oil is completely made with artificial or synthesized components. Additives are added to give it properties similar to those of conventional motor oil.

Synthetic Blend Oil
Synthetic blend oil combines both full synthetic oil and conventional oil. This blend generally has more conventional oil than synthetic oil and it includes the beneficial additives of synthetic oil that help protect the engine.

Be sure to check your car’s specifications for the right oil to use. Depending on your vehicle, conventional oil should be changed every 3-5,000 miles, full synthetic will need to be changed every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, and synthetic blend needs to be changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Professional Oil Change Services
For car owners who find changing their oil both time consuming and messy, opting for professional oil change services at a service center can be a much more convenient solution. They will properly dispose of the oil and filter and ensure your vehicle is ready for the road.

To summarize, regular vehicle maintenance, especially oil changes, plays an important role in maintaining optimum performance for your vehicle. It’s important to be aware of the indicators that signal when an oil change is needed and how frequently it should be done based on your car make and model. By adhering to regular maintenance practices, car owners can save both time and money in the long run while enjoying a safe and dependable driving experience.

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. Contact Car-X today and schedule an appointment for an oil change on your vehicle and we will make the process easy and fast!

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.

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!

Catalytic Converters

For nearly fifty years, the catalytic converter has been an essential component 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 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.

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

Modern 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.

Why is My Check Engine Light On?

You are driving your car down the freeway, and everything seems to be fine. Then suddenly the Check Engine Light illuminates on the dashboard. When this issue occurs, it is important that you address this problem in a timely manner.

In this blog, we will take a look at what to do when your Check Engine Light comes on, some possible reasons for it, and most importantly, how to get the problem resolved.

What is the Check Engine Light?

Today’s vehicles are extremely intricate machines, with many onboard computers controlling all the vehicle’s complex operations.

When the Check Engine Light becomes illuminated it is a warning to the driver that the car’s onboard computers have detected a problem that a system in the vehicle is not performing as it should.

Your vehicle will also tell you the severity of the situation by illuminating the Check Engine Light in several different ways. A solid yellow light means that the issue at hand is not immediately urgent but should be addressed.

A flashing light is an indication that something is seriously wrong and requires immediate attention.

Anytime your Check Engine Light comes on it is very important to take your car to a qualified repair shop to diagnose the issue.

Top Reasons That Check Engine Lights Appear

Engine Issues

Various engine problems can trigger the Check Engine Light to come on. Whether it be low oil pressure, overheating, or drivability issues, the light is a warning that something is going on that should not be happening.

Transmission Problems

Your car’s transmission plays a critical role in its operation, as it transfers engine power to the wheels, so the vehicle can move. Some transmission issues are mechanical in nature, and others are electronic or computer related. Transmission problems may cause the Check Engine light to illuminate.

Emission System

Today’s modern cars are equipped with sophisticated emissions systems that are designed to minimize the amount of pollution a vehicle produces while in operation.

There are many sensors and other components that make up a car’s emission system. If any component stops performing as it should, the Check Engine Light will appear.

Overheating

Engines and transmissions produce a tremendous amount of heat as they drive down the road.

A car’s cooling system is designed to keep the vehicle’s operating temperature within the proper range. When this system develops an overheating problem, serious damage to the engine can result.

How Do You Resolve a Check Engine Light Problem?

Just as cars have many sophisticated on board computers today, modern repair shops invest in complex diagnostic equipment that is used to determine what is wrong with a vehicle, and the best strategy to fix it.

Highly trained technicians connect to a car’s computer system by using diagnostic equipment at the repair shop. Based on a wide variety of trouble codes and performance measurements, a technician can interpret the nature of a vehicle’s issue and decide how to properly repair it.

Once the proper repairs have been made, the technician can “clear” the Check Engine light and turn it off. Then the technician will take a test drive and ensure all systems are operating properly.

Car-X is Your One Stop Auto Repair Solution!

For more than 50 years, the pros at Car-X have helped our customers keep their vehicles on the road and operating at top performance. In our shops, we have the latest diagnostic equipment for most type of vehicles, and our experienced technicians receive specialized training on how to use it. Should you find yourself with a Check Engine light illuminated on your dashboard, be sure to visit your local Car-X repair shop today.

We will get you back on the road in no time! Click to request an appointment today.

Why Your Car’s Engine Is Making a Rattling Noise

Are you hearing a rattling or pinging sound from your car? Is the noise coming from the engine area? An engine rattling noise can be a sign that something is wrong, and should be addressed as soon as possible. Let’s take a look at some possible reasons why your car’s engine is making unusual sounds.

A Rattling Noise from the Engine When Accelerating

Noises coming from the engine when you are pushing on the gas could be caused by a loose or weak timing belt, chain tensioner, cracked flywheel, or a broken flexplate.

These issues will only get worse over time, not better. It is important to bring your car into the repair shop as soon as possible.

Noises Coming from the Engine When Idling

A common problem that may be causing a rattling noise while idling involves the engine’s hydraulic valve lifters. This part of your car is responsible for opening and closing the engine’s intake and exhaust valves.

When a lifter is not working properly, a loud ticking sound can usually be heard under the hood.

Another issue that could be causing a rattling noise at idle is piston slap. If one or more of your pistons no longer fit properly in the cylinders due to wear, piston slap can occur. This is something that should be checked out right away.

Engine Noises Happening When the Car Is Hot

An engine ticking noise when the car is hot could indicate low oil pressure. Insufficient oil pressure can be damaging to an engine regardless of its age, so having a qualified mechanic take a look at it is highly advisable.

Find Help with Your Auto Repair and Services

Car-X has been providing quality, reliable automotive service since 1971. Proper maintenance and service of your vehicle can make a big difference in helping to care for your car.

Call the Car-X Man or schedule an appointment for your vehicle, and we can help repair the issues related to noises coming from your car’s engine—keeping you safe and your vehicle functioning properly.

Why Does the Inside of My Car Smell Like Gas?

If the inside cabin of your vehicle smells like gasoline, it could be a sign that there may be more significant problems, and you should address them as soon as possible. While the smell of gas fumes on occasion isn’t as alarming, a strong odor from inside the vehicle should be investigated right away.

In this article, we will discuss potential reasons why the inside of your car smells like gas, such as possible fuel or exhaust leaks, a malfunctioning gas cap a failed pressure regulator, and more.

Fuel Leaks

If the smell of gasoline seems to be coming from the engine compartment, this could be a sign that there’s a leak in the fuel system. It is very important to have this checked out right away, as a leak in the fuel system could cause a fire under the hood.

Exhaust Leak

In contrast, if the gasoline smell seems to be coming from the car’s exhaust, this could be a sign of an exhaust leak. One of the main functions of a car’s exhaust system is to ensure drivers aren’t breathing in exhaust fumes. If you begin smelling gas fumes at the front of the vehicle near the engine or inside the cabin, the car’s exhaust system should be checked out.

Malfunctioning Fuel Cap or EVAP system

There is also a chance the gas smell in your car cabin is because of a faulty gas cap or EVAP (emissions) system. If your vehicle’s gas cap isn’t sealing correctly or is loose, damaged, or missing, gasoline fumes may escape through the fuel filler. Modern cars are also designed with EVAP systems to capture these gas fumes, so if that’s malfunctioning, it could be the source of the gas odor.

Failed Pressure Regulator

A failed pressure regulator may also leave your car with a gas smell. If the regulator is not working correctly, the vehicle’s fuel mixture may be off, causing an abundance of fuel to be present in the system. This will cause the car to run “rich”, which could produce a strong odor of gas in the passenger cabin.

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 its ability to provide you with many miles of trouble free driving.

Call the Car-X Man or schedule an appointment for your vehicle, and we can help repair the issues related to what is causing your car to smell like gas—keeping you safe and your vehicle functioning properly.