News

Q: Why do my brakes make a squealing noise sometimes when I apply them lightly at low speeds? – Mr. Baldwin   A: Mr. Baldwin, The squealing noise is caused by high-frequency vibration of the brake pads against the rotating brake disc. Vibration is the unavoidable result of friction generated by the pads as the caliper clamps them against the rotating disc. Under average braking conditions, some brake noise is normal and cannot be eliminated. Normally, the shims and the high-temperature...

Q: How often should I replace the fluid in my transmission? – Mr. Murray   A: Mr. Murray, Transmission fluid does break down over time and collects dirt, rust and other contaminants. Fresh transmission fluid ensures smooth and quiet gear changes and maximum transmission life. We would be happy to check the level and condition of your transmission fluid and print out a free copy of the factory maintenance schedule, usually every two years or 30,000 miles. Transmission fluid specificatio...

Q: How can I protect against blow outs? – Penny   A: Dear Penny, The best protection against blowouts is to properly inflate your tires. Don’t let them get too soft; don’t over inflate them. Also, make sure you select a tire that is designed for your driving conditions. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more tire and auto repair tips.

Q: How can I find the warranty coverage specifics for my tire? – Shelly   A: Hi Shelly, Go to your tires specific website at:         http://www.bridgestonetire.com/tires                                                                                 http://www.firestonetire.com                                                                                 http://www.michelinman.com                                                                                 http://www.genera...

Q: How do regular oil changes save me money on gas? – Mr. Block   A: Mr. Block, A regular oil change is like a check-up at your doctor, essential to the health of your car or truck. For superior performance and cleaner emissions, today’s engines are designed to run at close tolerances and high temperatures. High quality motor oil, whether conventional or synthetic, reduces friction and actually removes heat from the engine. As long as your oil is clean, it prevents wear – maintaining...

Q: What do I do about this bulge on the sidewall? – Mr. Rockwell   A: Mr. Rockwell, Replace the tire immediately. If the tire has road hazard coverage and is within the 2/32” of the original tread depth, it’s a free replacement. Without qualifying for road hazard coverage, it must be verified that the bulge is due to defect in order to receive pro-rated credit based on the unused portion of the tire. Tire Pros of Frederick is always eager to provide helpful auto repair tips. 

Q: How do I use the Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) to make an informed tire purchase? – Mr. Kidwell   A: Mr. Kidwell, Tire grade ratings are intended to provide a simple way for you to compare tires. The ratings, imprinted on the tire sidewall, are based on tests under controlled conditions. The federal government specifies the tests, but manufacturers assign the temperature, and traction ratings. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips. 

Q: My check engine light goes on and then a few minutes later goes back off. What do I do? – Joe   A: Joe, Visit your mechanic. When your check engine light come on your car is talking to you – telling you something is wrong. Pay attention – many shops including ours will check this light for free. Visit tireprosoffrederick.com for more auto repair tips. 

Q: How often should I replace the power steering fluid? – Nicole   A: Dear Nicole, Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for a free print out of your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, or check your owner’s manual. The standard interval is every three years, or 50,000 miles. Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more auto repair tips!

Q: Why do I need to replace my shocks? – Alice   A: Alice, Over time, shocks wear out. Think about it, they bounce up and down an average of 1,000 times or more per mile. That’s 50 million compressions over their expected shock life of 50,000 miles. Sometimes, shocks can go before their time. They can leak the hydraulic oil that cushions your ride. And because shocks are on the underside of the car, they are susceptible to nicks, bends, and other damage. Worn shocks not only compromis...