News

Q: When I press the brake pedal, my car shudders. Is this dangerous? – Mr. Halloway   A: Mr. Halloway, Bring your car in for a free brake check as soon as possible. Potential problems include warping or pitting of your rotors/drums, which we can help correct. Or, there might be air in the brake lines, a sign of more serious trouble. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips. 

Q: How long can I expect my original exhaust system to last? – Mr. Sandberg   A: Mr. Sandberg, Today’s exhaust system components last years longer than in the past. Barring road damage, you can expect your original muffler, exhaust pipes, and catalytic converter to last you eight to ten years. Most catalytic converters have an eight year, 80,000 mile warranty. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips. 

Q: Why do I need antifreeze? – Mrs. White   A: Mrs. White, Automobile engines run hot – between 195 and 200 degrees. These temperatures test the engine’s metal parts, but result in more complete combustion, better fuel economy, and reduced emissions. The water/antifreeze mixture, circulated through the engine by a pump, removes excess heat and disperses it through the radiator. The coolant keeps your vehicle from boiling over and from freezing in winter. Special additives in antifree...

Q: I hear a squealing sound when I make a sharp turn. Could changing my power steering fluid help? – Roberta   A: Roberta, Fresh power steering fluid keeps your steering operating smoothly and quietly. Power steering fluid degrades over time from heat, air, rust, and other contaminants. That’s why your auto maker schedules steering fluid servicing as part of your maintenance. Talk to the experts at Tire Pros of Frederick for a diagnosis of your steering issue. 

Q: How does high quality motor oil protect my engine? – Mr. Baker   A: Mr. Baker, Heat and friction is the enemy. Slippery motor oil not only reduced friction between the many fast-moving parts of your engine, but also actually removes heat from the pistons, shafts, and bearings. Think of your engine as the heart of your vehicle, and oil is the blood. As soon as you turn the ignition key, a gear connected to the crankshaft or camshaft will activate the oil pump and propel the oil to al...

Q: What about OEM versus after market parts? – Jose   A: Dear Jose, In most cases, after market parts work as well as, and sometimes even better than, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, and are almost always less expensive. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips. 

Q: Can I do scheduled maintenance myself? – Gerald   A: Dear Gerald, You certainly could change your own oil and perform other routine maintenance. Just keep your receipts and log the work in your owner’s manual. Tire Pros will drain and replace you oil, install a new filter, rotate your tires, check air pressure, inspect your brakes, and lubricate the chassis. The oil, alone, costs $15 at an auto parts store. You save yourself the trouble and mess of a do-it-yourself oil change and ...

Q: How long can I expect my shocks to last? – Mr. Green   A: Mr. Green, Most auto experts recommend that shocks be replaced at 50,000 miles. That’s about the time that many drivers also need to replace their tires. If you drive on rough roads, or off road, you may need to replace your shocks earlier. 

Q: How much air should I put in my tires? – Ms. Landis   A: Ms. Landis, The recommended tire pressure varies widely by tire size and type. Consult your owner’s manual. The specifications of your original tires are also listed on a decal on the driver’s doorjamb or inside the glove box. If you buy a set of replacement tires, be sure to write down the new specifications. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair advice. 

Q: Why is scheduled maintenance so important? – Rachel   A: Dear Rachel, A well-maintained vehicle keeps you safe and saves you money. Proper maintenance guards against major engine repairs and failure of crucial systems such as brakes and steering. Changing your oil and keeping your tires inflated to the correct pressure can help you get up to 5% better gas mileage. Most importantly, you protect your vehicle warranty by following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.