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Can you just add oil instead of changing it?

The motor in your vehicle requires oil or proper and smooth operation. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle determines the type and amount of oil needed. From time to time, an oil change is required based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and how you drive the vehicle. A vehicle that sits in a garage more than it is on the road won’t need an oil change as frequently as a car that is driven every day. 

Yes you can, and that is better than letting the vehicle run completely out of oil. However, mixing new and old oil will thin the oil down, reducing the interfacial tension of the oil and making unable to do the job that motor need to do for the motor. An oil change keeps the oil fresher throughout the engine and keeps everything running smooth.

Today, we live in at a fast pace, and our vehicle maintenance is often put on a back burner, so simply adding oil is faster than getting an oil change. By delaying the oil change and continuously adding new oil to the existing, the is the chance of overfilling, which can cause several issues, some that are costly.

Is it OK to change oil once a year?

A vehicle that isn’t driven much still needs fresh oil. Oil loses its effectiveness as it ages. When the engine doesn’t get started and warmed up, moisture forms in the engine that can’t be removed and takes a toll on the engine, shortening its lifespan. 

With the vehicles today, most automakers suggest an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. For the normal driver, this is typically twice a year. The older the car, the more frequent that oil change and filter change are needed. A good rule of thumb for a car that is over 5 years old, the oil change should be every 3,000 miles. 

How long can I really go without an oil change?

Vehicles older than ten years can to up to 7,500 miles before an oil change is needed, and if it uses a synthetic oil, you can safely drive it up to 15,000 miles before getting an oil change. After that point, you’re risking serious issues with the engine.  Here are some indications that you may need to get an oil change sooner than later:  

• Color and consistency changes: Oil in your vehicle should be an amber color that is clear and translucent. As the oil works through the engine, it collects debris and become black and gritty. When the oil in your vehicle is black and gritty on the dipstick, it is time for an oil change. 
• A burning smell: If you are noticing the smell of burning oil inside the vehicle, there is probably an oil leak. With an oil change, that may disappear for good or it may get better for a short time and then start again. Your mechanic can advise you accordingly whether an oil change is sufficient or if you have bigger problems with the engine.
• Knocking noise: Oil keeps the parts moving in the engine without grinding against other parts, so without an oil change, the old oil is getting thinner and not properly lubricating the engine. This can lead to a loud knocking sound and is an indication that an oil change is needed soon before the engine becomes overheated and quits altogether.
• Dashboard warning oil light: Vehicles have lights on the dashboard that signal when there is a problem, and one of those is an oil light. When the oil light comes on, it is telling you that you need an oil change or service is needed.  

What happens if you don’t change your oil?

When you don’t have the oil changed in your vehicle, a common problem is the engine parts get too hot and it becomes less efficiently. Over time, the components of the engine begin to warp and wear, leading to a complete shutdown which can lead to costly repairs or replacement.

Does oil go bad if you don’t drive?

Yes, it will begin to degrade and build up moisture, creating a sludge that won’t lubricate the engine as needed. Even if you don’t drive the mileage recommended between oil changes, a bi-annual oil change is recommended.

Can I get an oil change with my own oil?  Yes, absolutely, especially if you’re doing your own oil change.  Using your own oil at a service center may or may not be cheaper, it depends on the service center. Most oil change centers will not use a customer’s oil due to liability issues. 

As far as the mechanics of your vehicle, using your own oil is acceptable as long as it is within the specifications stated by the manufacturer, in regard to type and weight of oil used. Call 847-895-9131 today for an oil change.

Powering your car through the cold

Car batteries first purpose is to provide the car power to start the motor, which we will discuss in more detail. The next purpose of the car batteries is to be a surge protector for the computer. Additionally, the car battery without engine running powers a car for a short-term where the GPS, lights, stereo, or wipers can be used once the car engine is off. 

As we mentioned at the start, car batteries provide power for the car to start. Within the system that starts the car, car batteries have three key things that happen with the help of the battery: 

1. The ignition switch where you insert your key or push the starter button.
2. The switch control where the solenoid sends an electrical current to the starter relay and closes the set of contacts.  
3. Once those contacts close, the battery transmits voltage to the starter, engaging gears to turn and the car starts. 

Car batteries are seemingly simple, relatively inexpensive item that is essential to a car. If the battery isn’t working, the car isn’t going anywhere on its own power. In this piece today, we’re going to answer questions about car batteries, giving you an idea how important this item is to your car and why it needs your attention from time to time. 

Can a car battery just die without warning?

Yes it can, but you don’t have to wait for a car battery to die before you replace it. Out of a thousand drivers surveyed, over half of them admit they wait to replace the battery once it dies. This means that over 500 of those people were left waiting for emergency roadside assistance. 

Car batteries are a 12-volt source of electricity that turns the engine on and keeps a car running until the alternator takes over. The alternator recharges the battery, allowing the battery to have power to start the car again. The alternator used briefly to start the car’s engine and keep it running. As the engine’s power activates the alternator, it generates electricity and recharges the battery so it can start the car the next time. Both the car battery and  alternator need to be in working order because they require each other to keep the electrical system functioning. Both are needed for the headlights, horn, radio, and any other electrical device on a car.

If you want to avoid being one of the 500+ people stranded and waiting for roadside assistance because your battery died, here are 5 things that need your attention: 

1. The Battery’s Age: Today, most cars require a 12-volt battery, providing your battery with an average life span between three and five years. By paying attention to the battery’s ‘birthday’, you can replace the batter it before it reaches that 5^th  birthday. 
2. Warning Sign It is Dying: If the engine is slow to crank when the ignition is turned, that is often a telltale sign. Another indicator is dim headlights when turned on without the engine running. There should be enough power in the battery and alternator for the headlights to be bright. If your car doesn’t turn over when you turn the key, you only hear the buzzing sound and a clicking sound, which is usually an indication the headlights were left on after you turned the motor off. Your car should start with a jump from another vehicle using jumper cables. If it won’t your car battery’s lifespan has been reached. 
3. Test Battery for Free: Most auto parts stores and mobile car service companies offer free testing for car batteries for free. With the purchase of a new battery, installation is free, and the disposal of the old battery could be free, or a small handling fee may be added to the price of the new battery. 
4. Before You Are Stranded: If you have your car battery tested and it fails, or it is slow to cranks, go ahead, and buy the new battery.  The store clerk or technician will be able to help you determine the right size and type of battery you need. 
5. Battery Maintenance: Just like your home, car batteries need a visual inspection from time-to-time too. Check the battery cables for corrosion – a chalky white substance that will be on top of where the battery terminals connect to your car. If they are corroded, the battery can’t get good electrical conduction. These are easy to clean using a wire brush after you have disconnected the battery. Then apply a grease coating over the battery terminals before reconnecting. 

Can your car battery die while driving?

Yes, car batteries can die while you’re driving the vehicle. You need to get your car off the road as quickly and safely as possible then call for roadside assistance.  What can cause this to happen? 

• Worn out ignition switch
• Loss of power from a vibration 
• Fuel pump goes out
• Electrical system issue

How long can a car sit before the battery dies?

A common question about car batteries and there isn’t a direct, short answer. There are several factors that can affect the life of a battery, but the average lifespan is two months at the most.  For some higher end cars with a lot of electrically powered bells and whistles, you can expect 14 days.  

What are the signs of a weak car battery? And How do I know if my car battery needs replacing? 

Here we provide you a list of six symptoms you need to replace it before your car battery is dead: 

• Slow Cranking
• Check Engine Light
• Low Fluid Level in Battery
• Battery Case Bloated and Swelling
• Leaking Battery
• It is Old 

On Car Batteries

Are there times that a car battery can’t be jumped? Oh yeah … it happens. Your car wouldn’t start, and you called for off road assistance or a friend. They arrive, connect the two car batteries with jumper cables and your car still won’t start. Why? There could be one of several reasons: 

• Your car battery is completely dead
• Your car’s battery terminals are corroded, damaged, or loose
• Your car’s alternator is bad
• Your car’s starter is bad
• Your car’s neutral safety switch is bad
• The jumper cables are bad

It may not be the starting system and with that comes a list of other possibilities: 

• Fuel pump
• Out of gas
• Clogged fuel filter
• Computer failure
• Catalytic converter problem
• Carburetor or fuel injection problem
• Timing belt problem
• Spark plugs worn out
• Water froze in fuel line 

At the end of the day, we recommend that you have your battery checked each time you have your oil changed or any other work is done on your car. Keeping it in good shape is as important as keeping gas in the tank. Call 847-895-9131 today for your auto repair service.

How Long Does it Take to Replace Brakes and Rotors?

Brake repair service is an important and necessary service when the time is right. But exactly how long does it take to replace brakes and rotors? Due to the fact that various components that make up the brake system are subject to wear and tear, they will need to be replaced. This process can take expert mechanics anywhere from thirty minutes to one hour. This is according to an expert opinion.

Can I Just Replace Brake Pads and Not Rotors?

Are you wondering what will happen if you put new brake pads on bad rotors? Please review the following list to review more about whether or not this is possible.

• If the rotors aren’t worn beyond the mandatory discard thickness, many mechanics prefer to replace the pads only.
  • This is because replacing the rotors is a time and money expense, and if it is not necessary, it’s not worthwhile.
  • New pads must be burnished into new rotors before the best braking performance is actuated.

The best way to find out if you need both your brake pads and rotors replaced is to consult a professional mechanic. A reputable mechanic will tell you the current condition of your brake pads and recommend a responsible course of action.

What Happens if Rotors are Not Replaced?

If your brake pads aren’t replaced at the correct time, it can cause the metal backing plates on teh brake pads to contact the rotors. This inevitably creates grooves or gouges. When your rotors become warped, gouged, or worn thin, the effectiveness of the brake system diminishes. This has the end result of reducing the safety of the vehicle.

What Happens if You Put New Brake Pads on Bad Rotors?

If you put new brake pads on a car that has damaged rotors, the pad won’t properly contact the rotor surface. This means that the car’s stopping ability is dramatically diminished. If you have deep grooves that have developed in a worn rotor, then it will act as a hole-puncher or shedder in your pad material. This occurs as it is pressed against the rotor.

Should I Replace All Four Rotors?

According to a leading auto mechanic website, as long as you have both front disk brake pads replaced and the rotors turned or replaced, then it should be perfectly fine to complete the rear brakes shortly after. Generally speaking, it is recommended that all four of the wheel brakes be replaced at the same time for the sake of safety, but in theory, the idea should be alright.

Who Does Brake Repair Near Me

Are you looking for a good auto mechanic who specializes in brake repair? If so, it is a good idea to do some research. Your vehicle is one of your most prized possessions. You don’t want your vehicle to end up in the wrong hands and be damaged. In order for you to find the right auto mechanic, it is important for you to first as a friend or family member for a referral.

Brake Repair Near Me Now

If your brakes have gone caput, it will be important for you to search out an excellent mechanic who has years of experience working with cars and brakes. In order to secure a good mechanic, you will need to utilize the search term: “brake repair near me now.” By using these words in your search terms you can receive the benefit of getting the company names of all the auto shops in the area. 

Best Brake Repair Near Me

There are a number of different ways for customers to determine the best auto repair shop near them. Which auto shop features the service they are looking for? What is the quality of the reviews? How attentive is the approach to customer service? When many different auto shops are in an area, the amount of competition between the shops will naturally drive the response to provide the best service possible for the customer. The customer ultimately benefits when the competition is good and mechanics provide excellent brake repair services.

Tire and Brake Repair Near Me

If you need a high-quality tire and brake repair service, there are hopefully many options available on the market. While location and cost are important factors, so is expertise and professionalism. Your car does a lot of work moving you to and from locations. After every fifty thousand miles or so it’s important to get it checked out. It’s worth it to find the right mechanic for the job. 

When you need brake repair near me in Schaumburg, IL, the best answer is Express Auto Repair & Emissions. Please reach out to us today at 847-895-9131 for the best mechanical help for your vehicle.

Learn More About Your Car’s AC

Your car air conditioner is a vital part of your vehicle. With summer showing hotter temperatures you will be using your AC more often in order to achieve more comfortable cabin temperatures. Yet there may be times where it may act up so it’s best to understand essentially how your car air conditioner works. If you require professional assistance with car air conditioner repairs or services get in contact with your local auto repair shop. Here is some general background information regarding your car air conditioner that may prove useful to you.

What is AC in a car?

A car air conditioner system will cool the interior of a car for a cooler environment for occupants during hot weather. It was properly developed almost a hundred years ago as an add-on to car buyers yet it is the standard for almost all newly produced cars to have this feature. A car air conditioner is made up of three main parts, the compressor, condenser and evaporator. These systems will work together to move refrigerant through a high and low pressure closed loop system. The refrigerant is a substance that changes from gas to a liquid and back to a gas as part of the process and essentially will pull away warm air and vent it away from the car.

How long does car AC last?

A new recharge with your car air conditioner is not going to be used all the time so it’ll be a few years before another one is necessary. If you live in a very hot climate a recharge can typically last in those conditions for around three years. 

Does car AC work when off?

Your car air conditioner won’t be able to be turned on without the engine running. That’s because the car’s compressor that works with the air conditioner won’t get activated without the engine running. The blower can still be turned on however since this is electrically driven. 

How much power does a car air conditioner use?

A car air conditioner in modern cars will use about 4 horsepower or 3kW of the engine’s power which will increase the fuel consumption as well.

Does a car air conditioner consume fuel?

A car air conditioner will increase fuel composition more than any other auxiliary feature as it has the extra load of the engine. It may increase use by up to 20%. 

Should I circulate air in my car?

Recirculating the air with your car air conditioner can assist in having the inside cool down faster than with fresh air being pulled into the cabin. Keep in mind that this fast cool-down my come with a health risk if you leave it on recirculation mode for too long. That’s because recirculated air is just air that’s been breathed in and out by other occupants so it’s been sapped of oxygen and is instead filled with moisture. This type of combination can make you groggy which can hinder your concentration as well as safe driving ability. In order to maintain highly oxygenated air use recirculation mode only until the cabin hits a reasonable temperature, then switch to fresh air mode. Some newer cars may be built with automatic system sensors that monitor the moisture and oxygen levels and can switch between the two for you.

How do I make my car air conditioner colder?

• Start the Car Engine
• Turn the Blower Fan to Max. Speed
• Turn on the AC
• Open All Windows & Select Outside Air Mode
  • (This pushes the hot air from both the car and AC system itself.)

Why is my AC blowing warm air in my car?

Your car air conditioner may be blowing warm air due to problems with the cooling fan, the compressor, condenser or the overall electrical system of your car. Another consideration can be that your refrigerant levels are low. 

Why is my car air conditioner not blowing cold air?

There can be many reasons as to why your car air conditioner isn’t releasing cold air from issues with the compressor to leaks somewhere in the system. With air that’s cool but not cold issues could stem from radiator problems, a clogged filter, trouble with the cooling fan or it could be the AC needs to be recharged.

How long does it take to fix AC in car?

Generally, fixing the car air conditioner will take around 3-5 hours. 

Reach Out to a Professional

If your car air conditioner is having trouble, get in contact with your local auto repair shop for car air conditioner repair. Only a qualified mechanic will be able to run the necessary tests and conduct the right repairs that will get your AC back into action. Enjoy stable cabin temperatures and have a smoother driving experience by having your car air conditioner in the right shape with the right car services today.

If you require assistance with your car air conditioner in Schaumburg, IL call 847-895-9131 with Express Auto Repair & Emissions!

Why engine cooling is necessary?

For a car to operate, we know it needs an engine and transmission, among a host of other components. The engine is a combustion engine that needs certain things to make it work, one of which is the engine cooling system. This works with a fluid referred to as engine coolant, which can be plain water, but usually has antifreeze mixed in with the water.

Internal combustion engines produce a sizeable amount of heat which causes the engine components to expand by a certain amount as determined by design and engineering. Having a process to cool the engine, the engine cooling system, keeps that expansion within that certain amount as they designed it, staying within the tolerance range set with the engineering of the design. There are two distinct ways a car engine is cooled. 

What are the two types of cooling systems?

The two types of engine cooling system of cars are: 

• Liquid Cooling – this system circulates coolant and water through hoses and pipes inside the engine. The coolant and water pass through the hot engine, absorbing the heat generated and cools the engine. The coolant and water go from the engine and goes through the radiator. Then the heat from the coolant and water is transferred to the air that then blows through the exchanger. 
• Air Cooling – they used this system on older model of cars, and today, there are a select few that use it today. These type of cars operate with an engine cooling without radiator instead of circulating coolant and water through the engine. There are aluminum fins covering the engine block that pull the heat away and a powerful fan forces the air over the fins, cooling the engine by moving the heat to the air. 

For this article, we will focus on engine cooling system that is liquid-cooled. 

Why do you need an engine cooling system?

The prime purpose of engine cooling system is to transfer heat to prevent damaging the engine from the coolant and water boiling and freezing.  If the coolant reaches a boiling point, vapors form, and the heat isn’t transferred properly, allowing the engine metal to heat up to appoint that it could melt. The liquid serves as engine cooling and lubrication for the metal and non-metallic components of the engine and the engine cooling system. 

How is an engine cooled?

There are three vital functions of a car’s cooling system within six key parts.  The three vital functions are: 

• Removing excess heat from the engine
• Get the engine at the ideal operating temperature
• Maintain an efficient operating temperature 

Those vital functions are achieved by using these six key engine parts: 

• The engine
• The radiator
• The water pump
• The cooling fan
• The hoses
• The thermostat 

If you have ever been stuck in traffic on a scorching summer day and have your car overheat, you got a surprise lesson on the importance of an engine cooling system. The following process keeps the engine at the optimum temperature for expanding at that designed and engineered tolerance that we mentioned earlier. 

For the combustion process of an engine cooling system, part of the fuel energy is transformed into heat, which is transmitted to the coolant. The water pump then circulates that coolant through the engine, through hoses that transport the heated coolant to the radiator. There, the heat changes into air and cools it, then pulls that air past the engine. The coolant is returned back to the water pump, and it is recirculated. 

How do you diagnose a cooling system? 

Coolant is important to maintain an engine’s temperature. If the engine cooling system doesn’t have any coolant, what happens? The following is likely to happen:

1. Temperature gauge rises, and warning lights go off.
2. Engine will shut down on newer cars.
3. Engine parts are damaged if the car doesn’t have the engine shut down feature. The parts that overheating can affect are cylinder head, piston timing, head gasket, water pump, and bent or warped rods.
4. Other potential issues resulting from theengine cooling system not having any or enough coolant include steam coming from under the hood and/or out the tailpipe, the hood gets extremely hot, and the inside of the car heats. 

When a newer car runs out of coolant, it won’t cause damage instantly, but if you keep driving it after the gauge indicates the engine is hot, that will damage it. Many new cars today will go into ‘limp mode’ and you can get to a safe place, but it shouldn’t be driven on the roadways in that mode for a long distance. 

How Do You Know Your Car Needs Coolant?

The engine cooling system will give you warning signs before it gets damaged. It is up to the driver of the car to realize the warning signs and get the problem addressed. The common warning signs are: 

• The temperature gauge creeps upward, or a heat light comes on
• Car is blowing hot air even with the AC on 
• Car is using an excessive amount of gas 
• You notice a sweet odor coming from the car 

As you read this article, you may be asking “How can I cool my car engine?” and for the non-mechanic person, we suggest the following:

1. Turn the air conditioner off.
2. Turn the heater on.
3. Put the car in neutral or park and rev the engine.
4. Park the car if you’re driving and open the hood.

It takes a car at least thirty minutes for the engine to cool down. After that, you can open the radiator with caution, and add coolant if needed. The best thing you can do is call a professional towing service to get the car and take it to your mechanic to check your car’s engine cooling system and advise you from there the next step. Need service for your engine cooling system? Call Express Auto Repair & Emissions at 847-895-9131 today.

What could cause the check engine light to come on?

When you see the orange-yellow engine block pop up on your car’s dash, it may not be a reason to panic, but it does mean there is a problem with your vehicle’s emission system. Often the problem requires you to get a diagnostic run on the car’s computer to discover what’s causing the check engine light to come on. Some possibilities include:

• A loose gas cap: Tighten the gas cap to prevent air from seeping in or replace the cap if it’s missing.
• Faulty oxygen sensor: An oxygen sensor will need to be replaced. 
• Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils: The plugs, wires, or ignition coils may need to be replaced.
• Catalytic converter has gone bad: The catalytic converter needs to be replaced. Usually, if the catalytic converter is bad the check engine light will blink consistently. If this happens, pull over and have your vehicle towed to an automotive shop.
• Bad mass air flow sensor: The sensor will need to be replaced.

When you have a check engine light come on in Schaumburg, IL, you’ll want to get the problem diagnosed and repaired. For quality emissions service, count on the experienced team at Express Auto Repair & Emissions. Book a service appointment by calling 847-895-9131. 

What does check engine light look like

In most vehicles, the check engine light will be yellow-orange and look like an engine. On some cars, the light will simply say “Check Engine,” or “Service Engine Soon”. Warning lights will vary on each vehicle.

Is it safe to drive your car with the check engine light on?

Whether it’s safe to drive with the check engine light on or not will depend on what the problem with the vehicle is. If the light is steady, this means there is a minor fault in the vehicle’s emissions. In most cases, it is OK to continue to drive the vehicle, as long as other systems like the brakes and lights are working, although you may notice your vehicle will use more gas in some instances. If other dashboard lights come on, you will want to take the car in as soon as possible. 

If your check engine light flashes or blinks, this is a sign of a serious problem, usually a faulty catalytic converter. You will want to get the car to a mechanic immediately. It’s best to pull the vehicle over and have it towed to an auto shop. A bad catalytic converter can overheat and even catch fire. 

What do you do when the check engine light comes on?

Whether the check engine light is steady or flashing, the most important thing to do is not panic. If the light is flashing, however, you do want to pull the vehicle over and have it towed to the nearest shop. But, because the light can mean different things, you should take it in as soon as possible to run a diagnostic, or run a diagnostic yourself if you have a scanner available. The test will show what code is causing the light to come on. You can make decisions about repairs after that. Even if it is a loose gas cap that causes the light to turn on, a diagnostic is always a wise choice to ensure that is the problem.

How do you check a check engine light?

When the check engine light comes on, to determine what’s wrong with your vehicle, you will need to have a diagnostic test run on it. You can purchase various scanners and run the diagnostic yourself or you can take the vehicle to an auto repair shop and have them run the test. Usually, the scanners a mechanic will have will be more detailed than one you purchase yourself. 

Can check engine light mean nothing

Rarely, if ever, will a check engine warning pop up for no reason. Of course, when the light comes on, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is a mechanical failure. It could simply mean your gas cap is loose and needs to be tightened. If you’ve already tightened your gas cap and the light is still on, bring it in to Express Auto Repair & Emissions and we’ll run a diagnostic on it.

Can low oil cause the check engine light to come on?

Low oil pressure is one possible reason why the check engine warning has come on. If there is a low oil pressure problem, the oil warning light normally will also come on. The oil pump could be damaged or the oil was changed improperly and air is circulating through the system.

Will check engine light come on for bad fuel pump

A faulty fuel pump may also cause your check engine warning to come on. As with other possibilities, a diagnostic test can determine if the fuel pump is the problem.

Where to diagnose check engine light

If you want a thorough diagnostic run on your check engine light in Schaumburg, IL, schedule an appointment with Express Auto Repair & Emissions by calling __PHONE__. We offer a full range of automotive repair and maintenance services.

Learn More About an Oil Change

Each car will have specific maintenance checks that need to be provided every now and then. According to your owner’s manual and condition of your car, there will be guidelines on when to impart certain services such as an oil change for your vehicle. It’s especially important that an oil change is handled in a timely manner as essentially this is what makes your car operate smoothly, without enough oil you can see parts age prematurely and performance issues emerge. As with any car service, make sure to confer with a professional mechanic to see what can be done to help your car. Until then, here is some basic background information concerning an oil change that can prove useful to you.

What happens if you go too long without an oil change?

If you go long enough without an oil change eventually you can experience complete engine failure. When it’s been so long that oil turns into sludge that means it will no longer draw heat away from the engine. This can mean that the engine can eventually overheat enough to seize up or blow a gasket.

What color oil is bad?

Although oil can be very dark or blackened it can still work well. However, with new and clean oil you’ll have an amber color. With engine oil becoming darker this can point towards contaminants being present, high heat, or additives that caused the oil to darken after normal use.

Does low oil affect acceleration?

Low oil won’t provide as much lubrication for mechanical parts to move and operate smoothly. Therefore you may have more sluggish acceleration with your car as well as the feeling that the engine is down on power.

Will your car shake if you need an oil change?

If you require an oil change, the high level of friction of your car’s engine without lubrication can affect the quality of the ride. More specifically, you’ll feel abnormal shaking and vibrations when your car is idling. If you find our car is close to really needing an oil change try to not have your car idle too much until you can get it fixed.

How do you know when your car needs an oil change?

• The check engine and/or oil change light is glowing
• There’s a knocking noise or other noise coming from the engine.
• You smell oil inside the car.
• You notice dirty and dark oil.
• There’s exhaust smoke emitting from your hood or inside your car.
• Mileage is an excessive amount.

What oil change do I need?

With cars that require conventional oil, it’s recommended to have an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles to maintain mechanics. Although some synthetic oils can last from 10,000-15,000 miles it’s usually a good idea to change it every 7,500 miles.

How often do you really need to change your oil?

An oil change is typically recommended to occur every three months or 3,000 miles whichever comes first. Yet other car models may implement it at even 7,500-10,000 miles later. Ultimately it will depend on the age and make of your vehicle, your driving habits and the type of oil that you use.

How much should an oil change cost?

An oil change can cost anywhere on a minimum of $20-$25 and at most $50-$55. 

Change Oil or Filter

If you’re wondering whether you need an oil change or filter change it’s best to consider the age of your filter. Many car manufactures will usually suggest that you change your oil filter every other time that you have your oil changed while parts and oil manufacturers say to replace it every time you get new oil. 

Will my car run better after an oil change?

An oil change will provide a lot of noticeable benefits such as improving the gas mileage of your car when oil changes are done regularly. Better lubrication of your car between metal parts will increase the engine’s performance and will have it not use as much gas since it will work more efficiently.

Contact Your Local Auto Service Company to Schedule An Appointment

When you require an oil change service it’s best to rely on your local auto repair service company to do the task. Only a professional will be able to provide an inspection as well as other services that may need to be implemented in order to comply with what’s needed for smoother vehicle operations. An oil change is something that is recommended differently with differing car makes and models so it’s best to refer to your owners’ manual or the word of your mechanic when you’re looking to schedule any for the future. Have your car in smoother operations with healthier conditions and get an oil change today!

If you need help with a oil change in Schaumburg, IL call 847-895-9131 with Express Auto Repair & Emissions!

Rotation for longer-lasting tires

Car tires are an important part of a vehicle, obviously, because, without them, it couldn’t go anywhere. You have to more than just put tires on your vehicle though, you must take care of the tires for safety and so you get a longer life span from them.

A common maintenance step that many vehicle owners do is get a tire rotation and alignment for their car tires from time to time, or tire rotation with an oil change. We need both combinations to keep a vehicle in good condition and safe.

Are tire rotations important?

Your vehicle is an important and substantial investment, so taking care of it is important to keep it is in running condition and protect the value of it. This includes scheduled maintenance like oil change, fluid check, properly working brakes, making sure the car tires are properly inflated, getting new tires when needed, and tire rotation in between new tire purchases.  

What good does it to have car tires properly inflated or what good does a tire rotation to do for the car? Car tires that are regularly serviced, including make sure they have the right amount of air pressure and having them rotated will give you the maximum tread life and keep your car driving and riding better. Properly inflated and rotated car tires will give you the best performance of your vehicle and maintain its value for future trade-in or for selling.

Your owner’s manual that comes with your vehicle will have a recommended maintenance schedule for car tires, including the rotation service. If you purchased a used car and the owner’s manual isn’t available, the tire manufacturer will have their recommendation or ask your mechanic.

The patter that car tires are rotated is important too. The front axle of the car has a different job than the rear axle, and those jobs create wear on car tires. That tire wear effects a car’s performance, which will wear them out faster, the car uses more gas, and can also affect the safety of a car.

 Do you really have to rotate your tires?

Yes, it is not an upsell of the car dealership or your mechanic. If you think about it for a moment, the car manufacturers and the tire manufacturers will have their guide and recommendation of how often rotating car tires should be done. They both have already sold you their product, right? So, why would they recommend car tires be rotated if they’re not making money from the service?

The usual recommendation to rotate car tires is every 5,000 miles to 10,000 miles. Some cars and some car tires will have a different recommendation, and you may have a personal preference. The number one reason for rotating car tires is for wear and tear to equalize because the front tires typically wear out faster than the rear tires. This is because the outer side of the front car tires takes more pressure when you make turns, especially for parallel parking, three-point turns, and U-turns.

What happens if you don’t rotate your tires?

Good car tires are important for a comfortable ride and as a guarantee for safe traveling. Between you and the road are your car tires and if they are inferior quality or condition, your car’s performance is diminished, as is your safety.

There are several benefits to be had from rotating your car tires, with the main ones being:

• It preserves your car’s balance, making turns is safe
• It helps with maneuverability and traction, keeps your car on the road
• It preserves the tire tread giving you longer tire life expectancy

Tire manufacturers offer a guarantee on their tires and the mileage you can expect from them under normal driving conditions. Having your car tires rotated on a regular basis will give you a better chance of keeping that guarantee held. The main functions of your car tires are:

• To support your car’s bulk weight
• To absorb the irregularities of the roadways
• To provide traction and braking so that you drive safely and come to a safe stop
• To make your turns safe and smooth

Which way do you rotate your tires?

It depends on whether your car tires are directional or non-directional. With directional car tires, the tread pattern is one-way and optimized for the direction the tires rotate – they are specifically made for either the left side or right side and most tires will have either an arrow or a triangle on each tire’s sidewall indicating the direction it should turn. To rotate directional car tires, exchange the right front tire with the right-back tire and the left front tire with the left-back tire:

With non-directional car tires, the tread pattern is designed so we can mount them on any car wheel. To rotate non-directional car tires, use the crisscross pattern. For rear-wheel-drive cars, move the front tires to the rear on opposite sides, such as front left-to-right rear and front right to left rear.

Can you rotate tires too often?

The basic recommendation for car tires to be rotated is every 6 months or every 10,000 miles, unless you drive less than 7,500 miles annually, which usually coincides with oil changes and can be done at the same time. Some cars the manufacturers recommend the oil change every 15,000 miles, and in that case, you’ll want to get your car tires rotated in between oil changes. The owner’s manual that comes with your car may have different recommendations, and if so, that is the schedule you should follow. Just as your home needs regular scheduled maintenance and check-ups on the HVAC system and roofing, your car needs regularly scheduled maintenance. Your home protects you and your family. Your car does, and is for many people, the main mode of transportation to and from school, work, and more. With that in mind, the importance of things like the oil change and rotation of car tires is obvious. Call 847-895-9131 today for your tire rotation in Schaumburg, IL.

Learn More About A Heater Core

There are many parts to a car yet for comfortability purposes perhaps the most important area of operations will be with the heating and cooling system. With winter approaching fast it may be time to check up on the heating functions of your car. Essentially, the part of your heater that is most important will be the heater core. Here is where heat will be allowed to disperse throughout your car keeping occupants and drivers warm and crisp. However, like all parts of your vehicle, it may require maintenance or repairs from time to time. When you’re in need of a professional to check out your heater core be sure to get in touch with your local car shop. Here is some background information about heater cores that may prove useful to you in the meantime.

What does heater core look like?

A heater core is a part of a car’s cooling system and looks like a miniature version of a radiator with a grid of little tubes and a waffle-like appearance from the fins that send heat to the rest of the car through vents.

What does a heater core do?

A heater core will disperse the heat throughout the car with the cooling system and will allow your heater and defroster to work. The primary purpose of the heater core is to heat the cabin of the car.

How does my car’s heater core work?

The heater core of a car will work much like the radiator does yet instead of cooling the motor the heat form the coolant will warm the car’s interior. Basically, it will divert the coolant from the rest of the car’s cooling system to heat the interior of your car.

What happens when a heater core goes bad?

Your heater core can exhibit many signs when it starts to go bad, one such sign can be when the inside your car fogs up with condensation. What this usually points to is a leak from the coolant vapor that goes into the cabin of a car when the car heats up as you start driving.

Can I drive my car with a bad heater core?

Usually, a bad heater core will go bad after leaking. This can occur when the heater core uses the engine’s coolant to make heat. With a leak, the amount of coolant to cool the system will be lowered which results in a higher temperature of parts which can ultimately damage the engine of the car.

How do you test a heater core? 

• Turn on the engine to see that heater works.
• Check the radiator for coolant.
• Make sure the thermostat is correct.
• After the engine has been running for a minute or so see if your smell antifreeze in the air coming from the vents. (Faulty heater core)
• See if small puffs of smoke come out of vents. (Faulty heater core.)
• Feel the hose of the heater core. (If one is warm while the other is cold, there’s a faulty heater core.)

Can heater core cause leak?

A heating core can leak even in older vehicle models where the heater core is outside of the cabin. It can find it’s way into the cabin and into ventilation ducts which can cause problems down the line.

Can a heater core be flushed?

A heater core can be flushed from the vehicle’s firewall by loosening the clamps and disconnecting the heater hose. Essentially, somewhere along the process of the mamy steps of the flushing method, your system will then be filled with water 1-2 times to flush out the remaining coolant.

How much does it cost to flush a heater core?

A heater core flush service will cost around & $79-$89. Flushing the tubes of the heater core can allow for the coolant to flow more smoothly especially if the heater wasn’t working as well as it usually would.

What does it cost to replace a heater core?

A heater core will cost around $564-$927 for labor and parts. Since the location of the heater core is variable you can see costs being higher for labor. The part itself will actually cost around $80-$234.

Contact A Professional For Assistance With Your Heater Core

When you’re having trouble with the heating of your car be sure to get in touch with professional heater core services in Schaumburg. IL. A qualified mechanic will be able to run diagnostics to determine the best course of action that should be taken with your vehicle. Alternately, if you require services with heating for your home or business contact a professional HVAC company. Contact a heater core specialist today in order to ensure that proper measures and implementations are being met with your vehicle’s operations. Have the heating functions of your car in ready order so you won’t run into any surprises in the cold weather. 

If you require assistance with your heater core in Schaumburg, IL call 847-895-9131 with Express Auto Repair & Emissions! 

How Much Does it Cost to Service a Car Engine?

Engine service can be crucial when the time comes. Every fifty thousand to one-hundred thousand miles is an excellent opportunity to contact your local, respectable mechanic to administer engine service. According to recent studies, the average cost to fix a check engine light-related issue decreased by 10% over the last year. Overall, the cost to service an engine has decreased by approximately fifteen percent since 2006. As it stands, it currently costs approximately $357.00, including parts, which come out to $216.00 and labor, which comes to approximately $141.00. 

What Does it Mean to Service a Car?

In order to service a car, there are a number of different practical matters to address. A car service can include up to fifty or more components. These components involve systems checks and adjustments that address lights, tires, exhaust, and other operations. The brakes and the steering must be tuned to run in peak condition. There may be an engine oil change or a filter replacement. The suspension must be checked during this time, and so should the car’s battery condition.

How Much Does it Cost to Get Check Engine Light Fixed?

According to national averages, the cost for a check engine light to be tested and diagnosed ranges from eighty-eight dollars and one-hundred and eleven dollars. These estimates do not include taxes and fees. While the price does vary from location to location, this range stands as a good approximate amount. There may be other costs included in your overall engine estimate, including related repairs as they are needed.

What Does a Mechanic Do In A Service?

In a service, a mechanic will perform the basic parameters of care and maintenance. Basic maintenance includes changing the oil, checking the fluid levels of your vehicle, and repairing or replacing worn parts of your vehicle. Parts that could be repaired or replaced include brake pads, wheel bearings, and sensors. Repairs should always follow the protocol of the manufacturer’s specifications. During this process, a mechanic should be expected to explain any automotive problems and repairs as necessary.

Is it Bad to Drive a Car With the Check Engine Light On?

The check engine light is inevitably tied to your car’s emissions system. It is designed to recognize when anything goes wrong with the complex collection of components and sensors located inside your car. If the engine light comes on while you are driving your car, it’s time to take stock of how your vehicle is performing. Is your car surging, or making any strange noises? If the car is not behaving poorly, it is safe to continue driving the car. However, it is important to turn your car over to a trusted auto repair shop or mechanic.

Where to Service Engine

The best location to get your engine serviced is by a respectable and reputable mechanic shop where they preferably specialize in your type of vehicle. The more high-quality the mechanic, the better for the overall health of your vehicle and your engine’s life. When leaks occur in your engine, it’s imperative that you have them addressed as soon as possible. This is also true when leaks occur in your pipelines. Leak detection can greatly help when your water bills are inexplicably rising in your household.

Why Engine Service is Required

Maintenance is key for perpetuating the life of your vehicle. Please take a look at the owner’s manual for your vehicle. The owner’s manual is usually located in your car’s glove compartment. With regard to the manufacturer’s directions, it is imperative that your vehicle be serviced according to the indicated mileage. As a general rule, your car should receive service once a year, or once every ten to twelve-thousand miles. This will ensure that your car lasts a long time and doesn’t display any unusual warning signs of engine disrepair. 

Engine Service vs Full Service

Please read through the following list to determine more about the difference between engine service and full service. A full service will include:

• Change in engine oil.
• New oil filter.
• Comprehensive vehicle check.
• All filters replaced.
• Brake and coolant fluid replaced.
• A sparkplug replacement.
• Up to 71 point check.

Engine Service Now

There are a number of signs that you should be aware of, as a car-owner, that symbolize engine failure. The first sign that your engine needs help is a check engine light. The next sign that you should be aware of is if your exhaust is emitting an excessive amount of smoke. Any leaks should also be managed as soon as possible. If your engine is chugging, racing, or shaking, that is also a sign that your engine should be serviced as soon as possible.

You need an auto repair company that knows how to perform your engine service in Schaumburg, IL. Call Express Auto Repair & Emissions at 847-895-9131 to speak with our staff about making an appointment today!