Car Tips for Drivers in the Kitchener Waterloo area

Replacing your car tires with winter tires is certainly an investment, but it’s well worth it. No price can be placed on your safety and that of your family. Plus, driving with well-balanced and evenly worn tires is also key to enjoying optimal gas mileage.

Not sure whether your car’s tires are in good enough shape to weather the winter? Contact your trusted mechanic and have him give them the once over. He’ll let you know whether your tires are the right type and/or whether the tread is sufficient enough to transport you safely through the winter.

In the meantime, here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions we receive about winter tires and seasonal tire replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are snow tires really necessary? Won’t my all-weather tires suffice?

Yes and no. Snow tires are necessary in an area that receives regular snowfall and experiences icy roads on a routine basis. All-weather tires are designed for locations that only experience the occasional snowy and icy road.

Snow tires, are different from regular and even all-weather tires in two ways. First, they have a deeper and more uniquely patterned tread that are designed to increase traction in snow and ice. Second, they are slightly softer than regular tires, so they remain more malleable and flexible in freezing temperatures.

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Are you feeling sick when driving your car, even if you’re never affected in other people’s vehicles? Do you have a child who seems particularly sensitive to motion sickness when he or she is driving in your vehicle? If so, your car may need auto suspension repair.

The average driver doesn’t think too much shocks or struts, but after years of supporting the heavy body of your vehicle, suspension system begins to wear out, making your ride a bit of a nightmare. When your auto suspension is out of whack, it can have a variety of effects on the way your car handles the road, many of which aren’t pleasant.

Schedule an appointment to have your car looked at by a licensed mechanic if you notice any of the following:

1. The ride is noticeably rougher

Remember when you first bought your car? The ride was so nice and smooth. Now, you may have the feeling you’re auditioning for the next Indiana Jones movie. Since shocks can wear out over time, you may have become desensitized to the breakdown of your car’s suspension.

If you can feel every grain of sand on the road, your shocks should be examined.

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Changing your oil regularly isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential to the function and efficiency of your motor. Failing to observe car oil changes every few months or 10,000 to 15,000 kms, depending on the make and model of your car, will compromise engine function and fuel efficiency.

Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations for your car or check in with your mechanic. The type of car your drive, your driving habits (highway or street kms) and driving frequency will also determine how often your oil should be changed.

Failing to observe routine auto oil changes or using the wrong oil for your car can do serious damage. Here’s Why:

Oil Stress

The oil circulating through your engine is constantly exposed to high-heat and this begins to break down the oil overtime. So, even though your dip stick may still show your oil levels as adequate, the quality of the oil may have diminished so it no longer serves as a good lubricant. Eventually, engine parts may start to rub against each other which can cause parts to wear down more quickly and lead to a shorter engine lifespan altogether.

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You get your to-go mug of coffee situated, strap on your seat belt, turn the key aaaaand – – – nothing. Surely that was your imagination. Let’s try again. Turn the key once more aaaaaand – – – nothing again.

Okay – it’s official. Your car won’t start. Now what?

Troubleshooting Tips for a Car That Won’t Start

There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem on your own, beginning with the battery. If you feel immediately out of your element, call your local mechanic.

He can get your car towed into the shop ASAP for a diagnosis and potential car engine repair so you can get on with business as usual.

If you feel confident exploring the engine a bit, we recommend trying the following troubleshooting tips.

Check the battery – is it time for a battery replacement?

An old, corroded or defunct car battery is the most common reason for a non-starting car. Inspect the battery connections. Do they seem old or corroded?

If there is a bunch of accumulated gunk, your problem may be as simple as corroded terminals that are blocking the electrical current.

Disconnect the battery cables and clean the corrosive gunk using a mixture of baking soda and water with a stiff metal brush. Dry them, reconnect the cables and start again.

If it still doesn’t start, use a battery tester to check the charge or jump the battery using a secondary or neighbour’s car. If car still won’t start, you have a dead battery in which case a car battery replacement will get you on your way.

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Are you ready to get out there and search for a used car? Congratulations on making a smart choice.

Previously-owned cars are more affordable than their newer counterparts and buying the right one can save you thousands of dollars over the vehicle’s lifetime. The goal is to find the best bang for your buck, and the following tips can help you to do just that.

Always bring any used car to your auto mechanic so he can give it the once over. The small fee you will pay is well worth the peace of mind you receive when he gives you the thumbs up.

Conversely, any red flags on his end will save you the time and heartbreak of dealing with repairs and issues once you’ve driven off the used car lot.

5 Tips For Picking the Best Car Off From the Used Car Dealer

1. Pick your Top 3

Start your search online by determining your Top 3 (or 5) make and model choices. Often, your picks will be directly related to your budget.

Also, be honest with yourself regarding the “must haves” and “must not haves” and stick to them so you aren’t swayed by a savvy sale pitch.

Buyer’s remorse is never pleasant and most used car sales are final.

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