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Q: I need to replace a burned out fuse, what should I do? - Sean A: Sean, Always replace burned-out fuses with ones of the same amperage (printed on the fuse) and note that if a fuse continues to "blow," you should have the circuit checked professionally by one of our technicians for defects. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips!

Q: My engine “cranks” but it doesn't start &/or stay running. Why? - Robert A: Dear Robert, Typically the engine is not receiving sufficient spark, fuel, compression, timing, or computer control. This circumstance requires a thorough engine and computer diagnosis to pinpoint the problem and derive a recommended solution. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips!

Q: How often should I change my spark plugs? - Ms. Lattin A: Ms. Lattin, Most new car manufacturers recommend spark replacement at 100k miles. Our opinion is that between 50k - 75k miles is a better interval. The spark electrodes wear out before the higher mileage, and this can cause wear on other parts--we frequently see coils needing replacement on engines with high mileage plugs. Another factor to consider is spark plugs frozen in the plug holes; often these plugs break when replaced. ...

Q: How should I prepare my car for a road trip? - Mrs. Via A: Mrs. Via, Prior to going on a trip, you should: Check all lights. Check your headlights (high and low-beam), brake lights, turn signals, parking lamps and (if you have them) fog lights to make sure they are all operational. You should clean your headlights using glass cleaner to improve night visibility. Check wiper blades. Inspect them for cracks or tears, and make sure they’re operational. If they’re in good shape, it’...

Q: I have a leak under my car. How can I tell what is leaking? - Jack A: Dear Jack, The coloring of the liquid identifies the type of liquid. Coolant Fluid is orange or green, Engine fluid is Brown or Black, Transmission Fluid is Red or Pink, Power Steering Fluid is Light Brown, Differential Fluid- Brown. Depending on the leak it could mean trouble, don’t wait until it’s too late! Remember, at Tire Pros of Frederick, auto repair advice is always free!

Q:   If my winter tires are designed to have so much traction and control during wet/snow/slushy conditions, Why wouldn't i just run these tires year round? A:  Your Winter tires are made with a rubber compund that is designed to stay flexible in colder conditions, in the warmer and hot weather your rubber will get very soft and wear out extremely fast. Always best to switch your winter tires for Summer or ALL Season tires after winter. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair advi...

Q: How do I clean dirty battery terminals? - Diana A: Dear Diana, First disconnect both terminal cables and then apply a baking soda paste that is three parts baking soda and one part water. This will clean corrosion built-up from battery terminals without the need for using a wire brush. The baking soda paste will neutralize corrosion. After reconnecting the clamps to the terminals, wipe them with petroleum jelly to help prevent future corrosion. Remember, at Tire Pros of Frederick, au...

Q: My car is older, so it seems to make more noise. How do I know when mufflers go bad? - Zack A: Dear Zack, Your car’s exhaust system is pretty complex. Excess noise could be from cracks or holes in manifolds or gaskets. Or on your muffler itself, excessive rust on a muffler, or holes in a muffler can cause a louder ride. Bad mufflers may also lead to increased pollution and even a rough idle. If you’re not sure, stop by. At Tire Pros of Frederick auto repair advice is always FREE! 

Q: My car stalled and a friend told me it sounds like vapor lock. What is vapor lock? - Andrew A: Andrew, The additives in today's gasoline have raised its volatility, which is the ability to change from a liquid to a vapor. During hot weather, gasoline may actually boil, causing it to stop flowing. The result is vapor lock; the engine is deprived of fuel and lets you know with symptoms such as rough running, loss of power, and in some instances, stalling. Modern electric fuel pumps loc...

Q: How much extra fuel is burned when using air conditioning? – Mr. Anderson A: Mr. Anderson, It is estimated that the use of air conditioning in a typical car reduces fuel economy by one to two miles per gallon. For larger cars, or when traveling in extreme heat, air conditioning cuts fuel economy up to four miles per gallon. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips.