Gene’s Car Tips
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April Is National Car Care Month
AAA reminds us that this is National Car Care month. This happens in April and again in October. The reason they feel the need to spend money on advertising the importance of car care is because so many consumers don’t take care of their vehicles properly. Neglect of this kind causes accidents, expensive breakdowns, pollution,… -
What Causes A Car To Overheat?
There are many reasons a car can overheat. Here is a list we hope you find helpful. A service center will test these components and systems to determine the issue and the cost to repair. Some tests are easy and some not. Some shops will have a fee for the time-consuming testing, so please make… -
My Car Still Starts, But I’m Told I Need a New Battery! Why?
A battery can start a car because it provides the initial electrical energy needed to power the starter motor, which then cranks the engine to start it. If an automotive technician tests your battery and tells you that your car needs a new one, it is because it has lost its ability to hold a… -
2026 Smog Test
Passing the smog test is vitally important, and starting in 2026, a new law will make passing a smog test more challenging. Previously, the computer monitoring system would ignore one incomplete monitor, but the new law requires all monitors be completed to pass the smog check. Helping Your Vehicle Pass the Test -Don’t forget to… -
Keeping Your Bottom Line and Your Car Healthy
Prices are up on everything these days. I am often asked how to save on car repair. My answer is always the same…don’t put off routine maintenance. Maintenance is the first step to a healthy car. Putting it off leads to an eventual breakdown which is always more expensive. Oils And Fluids It is vital… -
The Most Unexpected Vehicle Repairs
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to keep your car well maintained, an unexpected repair still happens. Here are the most common: Keep in mind if you are on a budget, that the luxury models will always be more expensive than a standard vehicle to fix when these unexpected repairs are needed. Even a… -
The Cost Of Owning A Car In 2024
The cost of owning a car has certainly risen. In 2024, the cost including maintenance, was an average of $6,684. If a new car was purchased, the total average cost was $12,297. Maintaining the vehicle averaged 10 cents per mile. New vehicle costs are at an all-time high and of course, supply chain issues on… -
Sell Or Keep Your Car?
Deciding when to replace your car can be a tough choice. It’s not just about mileage or age; other factors, like repair costs, safety features, and lifestyle changes, also play a role. Here are the main signs and considerations to help you decide when it’s time for a new vehicle. 1. Frequent and Costly Repairs… -
Hydraulic Engine Mounts
Don’t be surprised when you hear that your motor engine or transmission mount has an oil leak. Yep, the old rubber mounts have grown up to be liquid filled. They call it progress, and it is a better way to dampen vibration. Hydraulic engine mounts are advanced components that use fluid-filled chambers to reduce vibrations… -
Free Check Engine Light Diagnoses? Trouble Codes Defined
A trouble code is an alphanumeric value that corresponds to a particular type of fault. Such as a PO300. The list was originally created by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for use by all vehicle manufacturers who must comply with on board diagnostic (OBD II) emissions regulations in the U.S. The list of trouble…
