Archive for October 2024The New Blade in TownPosted October 27, 2024 3:02 AMIf your windshield wipers are streaking and chattering when you turn them on in the rain or snow, it's time for a little "blade renewal." And when it comes to new wiper blades, there are some new designs that are worth a look. One of the latest is called the beam blade. It's different than conventional blades you might be used to. Instead of a metal frame and a rubber blade that slides in the frame on a track, the beam blades have an enclosed spring-steel band that allows the rubber wiper to conform to the windshield glass shape much more tightly. There are some key advantages to beam blades, which is why many vehicle manufacturers are making them standard on their latest models. For one thing, they work well in all weather conditions, including the heat of summer and the icy, snowy cold of winter. Since there is no separate frame, snow and ice can't form in gaps like conventional wipers and prevent the blade from clearing your windshield. Many beam blades also have a mini "wing" on them. It uses the air moving over your windshield to create a little extra downward pressure that presses the blade even more tightly against the glass. The faster you go, the more firmly the blade can sweep off moisture. That means a clearer view. Beam blades are an upgrade that can add to your vehicle's overall safety with that increased visibility. The best thing is to discuss wiper blades with your service advisor to see if it's a good choice for you and your vehicle, keeping in mind the type of driving you do and the climate you live in. Remember that when it comes to wipers, it's important that you are using blades that are designed to fit your vehicle and that they are installed correctly. Lakeside Certified Auto Thoughtful Gifts for the Winter DriverPosted October 20, 2024 3:01 AMYou may be one of those romantics who don't like giving (or getting) practical gifts for special occasions. Just wait until one of those gifts helps you out of a big predicament in cold weather, and you realize that practical gifts can be life savers. Here are a few things you may give the cold-weather driver in your life—or suggest to someone else to give you!
Lakeside Certified Auto Alleviate the Creaks and Squeaks (Chassis Lubrication)Posted October 13, 2024 3:03 AMIf your vehicle creaks and squeaks when you drive down the road, it may mean that some of the metal parts are rubbing against each other and need to be lubricated. Those could be parts of the suspension, steering system and the drivetrain. Years ago, most vehicles had to have their chassis (what you think of as the frame) regularly lubricated. Newer vehicles are made with what some call "lifetime lubrication," but there are still parts of the chassis that need to be maintained with lubricants. Your service advisor can help you know when that needs to be done. In your owner's manual, the vehicle's manufacturer lists components that need regular maintenance. Things like u-joints, steering joints, sway bars, bushings and joints in the suspension. Some of them may have that "lifetime lubrication," while others may not. When you bring your vehicle in for service, a technician will look for any parts that have grease fittings. They will inspect these components, clean the fittings so dirt and other contaminants won't be forced into the part and then lubricate them with a lubricant that meets the manufacturer's specifications. Sometimes a chassis lubrication is done at the same time as an oil change. That's also an ideal time for the technician to check other parts of your vehicle that may need attention. That could include greasing other parts such as the fuel door, trunk and door hinges, suspension springs and door latches. Times have changed since the days when a "lube" job was synonymous with an oil change. Depend on your owner's manual and advice from your service advisor to know when "grease" is the word—and appropriate for your vehicle. Lakeside Certified Auto Avoiding Exhaustion (EGR Valve Replacement)Posted October 6, 2024 3:00 AMNo, ERG isn’t the sound a pirate makes. It’s a part in your vehicle that recirculates exhaust gas to reduce certain gases and pollutants in the atmosphere. In fact, ERG stands for “Exhaust Gas Recirculation.” One gas our vehicles may make when they burn fuel is nitric oxide, which can play a big role in creating smog and acid rain. It’s better for our planet if our vehicles aren’t spewing that into the air. One inventive way of reducing it is by taking the exhaust and channeling it back to the vehicle’s air intake system. When it travels through the engine again, its composition is changed, and it comes out cleaner. It also helps the engine be more efficient. The EGR valve can fail after a while, and some signs you may notice are the engine is miss firing, it may suddenly lose power or your Check Engine light may come on. You may also see your fuel economy decrease or hear your engine knock. A bad EGR valve can also make your vehicle fail an emissions test. There are several different types, including newer ones that are electronically controlled rather than working on vacuum pressure. They are found in newer gasoline and diesel vehicles. If you notice any of the symptoms of a failing EGR valve, bring your vehicle in so a technician can check to see if your EGR is still up to its “exhausting” job. Lakeside Certified Auto | ||
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