Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop – Page 5

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4 Warning Signs Your Car’s Oil Needs Changing

A car’s lubrication system is not only the most important function, but it is also the most critical system for maintaining the engine’s performance and extending its life. That said, the oil must be changed every now and then because every delay can cause serious problems. Many car owners get confused and ask these questions: How do I know if the engine oil in my car needs to be changed? What is the condition of the oil that needs to be changed? Well, all these questions will be answered in detail in this blog.

1. The Oil’s Color

One of the obvious alerts that the oil needs to be changed is the color. If you notice any slight change in the oil color from a brown or light honey color to a darker black, then it’s without a doubt that the oil is saturated with sediments and dust inside the engine. Therefore, if you don’t want to compromise on the performance of the engine, try to check the oil at least once every couple of weeks or after a long journey.

2. Engine Oil and Dashboard Light

The dashboard in front of you shows many warning signs indicating any defect in the car, whether there is a lack of fuel or an imbalance in tire air pressure and other alerting signs. However, if the oil pressure warning light is on, you have to stop your car as soon as you have a safe place to park in and change the oil immediately. Some car dashboards may display the word “OIL” instead of the oil pressure symbol.

Related: learn more about how to change your car oil here.

3. Engine Oil and Smoke

If the translucent vapor emanating from the car’s exhaust changes to smoke, stop your vehicle immediately. The smoke emanating from the exhaust is a dangerous sign that indicates actual damage to the engine’s internal parts. Check up on your engine – you may find an oil leak and, in worst cases, faulty engine parts.

4. The Oil’s Smell

Under normal conditions, the smell of engine oil is not supposed to leak into the car cabin, but a strong odor inside the car cabin means that the engine oil needs to be changed. If you smell burning oil, stop your vehicle as quickly as possible and schedule a maintenance appointment immediately.

Conclusion

The bottom line? Ignoring the above warning signs can completely damage the performance of your engine and put your safety at risk. So, whether you want a professional diagnosis for your car or just want to change the engine oil, head to Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop for quick and affordable auto services. Visit our auto shop or check out our website for more information.

Brake Maintenance Guide

April 6, 2022 / admin / 0 Comments

The interior setup of your car’s braking system is quite complex and surprisingly very easy to maintain. A braking mechanism is essential to your car’s performance and your safety. If it fails at any time, you could face consequences of your neglect. Here is a step-by-step guide for you to follow and learn basic maintenance of your car’s braking system so that you’re prepared.

Inspect the Brakes and Brake Pads

The first step is to check the brakes and brake pads of your car. If either is worn out, it is time to get them replaced. A general rule of the thumb is to get the brake pads checked once every year. If they are too worn out, replace them with new ones to ensure smooth performance for your vehicle.

2. Check the Brake Fluid

Your brake fluid is responsible for the transfer of heat generated throughout your car’s system. If you see that your brake fluid is of a dark color, it is time to get it changed. It’s best to flush the brake fluid out to avoid any sort of moisture build-up which is damaging to the car. Then, fill the brake oil after bleeding the brake lines to avoid any excess air into the system.

3. Upgrade the Brakes

Technology has introduced easy updates that you can do to improve the condition and overall performance of your car. If you are at the mechanic’s shop for replacing the brakes, consider upgrading them. Ceramic brake pads are quieter and produce less brake dust. Similarly, you can opt for slotted disc brakes since they are more heat resistant and durable than traditional parts.

Conclusion

Your brakes are your first line of defense against any sort of road accident. Keeping them in top form is essential for your safety and car’s performance. If you don’t have time to look after your braking system, hire the professionals at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop to do it for you. We provide professional mechanical services specializing in brakes and alignment of vehicles. Give us a call 817-834-2725 at for any assistance and check out our website to see a comprehensive list of services.

How to Know if You Need Your Wheels Aligned or Balanced

March 25, 2022 / admin / 0 Comments

The world of car maintenance is teeming with technical jargon, and nothing is more confusing for all vehicle owners than trying to find the difference between a wheel alignment and wheel balancing. Both of these affect your driving experience and are important factors for a smooth and safe ride. If you’re not sure if you need a wheel alignment or balancing service, continue reading to differentiate between these two processes with our guide below.

What Is Wheel Balancing?

If you’re normally driving between 40 mph and 50 mph and you feel the steering column vibrate, this means you need a wheel balancing and your wheels need to be checked. Also known as tire balancing, wheel balancing is the process of distributing the weight of a wheel evenly around its axis of rotation. This process ensures that the entire surface of the tire is perfectly in contact with the road surface while driving.

What Is a Wheel Alignment?

When your car appears to be swerving left or right, even though it feels like you’re driving in a straight line, it is a strong indicator that your car needs a realignment as soon as possible. Also known as a tire alignment, a wheel alignment ensures that the four wheels of your vehicle are parallel to each other. This process aligns them at the correct angle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Why Do I Need an Alignment or Balancing?

The bottom line is that maintaining proper wheel alignment and balancing is essential to your vehicle’s performance and will avoid unnecessary wear on your tires, steering, suspension, and brakes. These two services will ensure a safe and efficient operation while allowing you to maintain control on difficult roads and during harsh weather. It also ensures a smooth ride and a longer lifespan for your tires.

Conclusion

Every vehicle’s wheels at a certain point will lose its balance, whether it be due to imperfections, blemishes in its rubber, and other causes. If you notice any symptoms of unbalanced wheels or alignment issues in your vehicle, head to Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop – the best mechanical specialist in Fort Worth, TX. Visit our auto shop or check out our website for more information about our auto services.

Things to Do After a Car Accident

February 18, 2022 / admin / 0 Comments

No matter how carefully you drive your car, accidents can happen at any time and anywhere. Staying and driving safely on the road should be every driver’s priority. But the question arises: what should you do when you get into an accident? Usually people tend to panic and lose control of themselves. If you ever find yourself in this predicament, there are certain things that you need to consider, including whether it was your fault or not. To guide you, we’ve gathered all the relevant information that will help you through an unexpected accident.

Our Checklist for Post-accident

These are some of the most important safety tips that you need to pay attention to:

Don’t Panic and Avoid Leaving the Scene

The moment people experience an extremely unexpected accident, their emotions take over and they may fail to make the right decision. The only thing they can think of is running away from the accident scene. But let us guide you. This isn’t the safest thing to do. Instead, if your car is still drivable, drive it to a safer place. If you can’t move the car, remember to switch on your hazard light to warn other drivers. This will give other drivers a signal that they need to slow down upon approaching the accident spot.

Call 911

Check yourself and other passengers for injuries. If you find yourself or someone injured, immediately call 911. If you can’t call, ask someone else to do it for you. Calling the police to the place where the accident occurred will not only keep the scene safe from further damage, but they will also write an official police report for you. This report can help you collect all the facts and save you if any insurance companies begin to file cases against you for the damages caused by the accident.

Seek Necessary Documents From the Accident

Once the police have taken control of the situation, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.

If you think you’re in good condition and can talk, ask for the names and badge numbers of all the officers.
You also need to ask them where you can collect a copy of the accident report. Because if you plan to file a car insurance claim, your insurer might need the report to process it further.
Remember to take pictures of all the damage done to both cars.
Note down names and addresses of other involved parties.
If you come across any other witnesses to the accident, try to write down their names and contact information as well.

Once you are done with collecting all the information, get in touch with your car accident lawyer to start with your claim process. A professional lawyer can guide you through the reimbursement steps and advise what to do next.

Our Final Thoughts

With this checklist, we believe you now know what you must do if you’re involved in a minor or major accident on the road. But make sure to have an insurance policy for yourself beforehand to avoid last-minute regrets. Furthermore, if you find your car is severely damaged after the accident and requires maintenance, get it repaired at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop. To inquire more about our services, please call (817) 834-2725. Our highly trained staff will be happy to answer any questions.

Should I Plug or Patch My Tire?

January 21, 2022 / admin / 0 Comments

One of the most annoying things to happen on the road is when you accidently run over a nail and it punctures your tire. Most drivers have experienced this and a deflating tire is never good. Luckily, plugging or patching the hole will seal the air leak and allow you to drive safely again. Continue reading to learn more about their differences and whether or not they are long-term solutions.

Plugging vs Patching

A tire plug is a malleable rubber that is inserted into the puncture and seals the tire from the inside. On the other hand, a patch is a more labor-intensive process that requires you to detach the tire from the rim and apply the patch to the inside. A patch is considered a stronger repair but can be very difficult and tedious for the unexperienced to DIY.

Both can be used for small punctures caused by running over nails or other objects. However, they are still considered temporary fixes and are meant to keep your tire running until you’re able to get it replaced or inspected by a professional. A plugged tire can’t handle the same stress and strain as a new tire because there’s still a structural failure. If you spend a lot of time on the highway, plugs and patches are not quite long-term solutions.

Is My Tire Non-Repairable?

Plugs and patches are good inexpensive options but whether or not your tire is repairable depends on the location of the puncture. A non-repairable tire means the puncture is located outside of the repair area – which is limited to the middle or the “crown” of the tire. This is the center of the tread and is approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in from each shoulder. For most tires, this can also be identified by the first major groove on both shoulders.

If your puncture is located on the sidewall or anywhere outside of the repair area, you must replace it immediately. Other indicators that warrant a new tire include:

Damage in a previously repaired area.
Large holes more than ¼ inches in diameter.
Severe damage such as tread separation or large gashes.

Conclusion

Repairing your tire with a plug or patch is mostly a temporary fix. Your safety comes first and it’s much better to invest in a replacement than risk more damage or the loss of control while driving. For all of your tire and automotive needs, put your trust in Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop for a devoted service. Visit our auto shop in Fort Worth, TX and our experts will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

5 Signs of Potential Brake Problems

December 30, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

Your vehicle’s braking system is an essential safety feature. The numerous components of the braking system work in keeping the driver safe. Servicing your brakes is an integral part of vehicle maintenance. It is advisable to be alert on how your brakes are functioning. When your car has loose brakes, it should raise concerns as it can cause a disaster. Below are the signs that indicate that your vehicle has potential brake problems.

Brake Light On

When you notice a brake light indicator on your dashboard, it’s either an alert to a potential problem or it’s time for your regular brake servicing. When this happens, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your mechanic.

2. Squeaking Noises

Squeaking noises coming from your brakes indicate that you need to check them. It suggests that the brake pads are being worn out and the caliper is rubbing against the rooter.

3. Pressing Down Further for Braking Functions

If you notice that you’re stepping down further than usual on the brake pedal or that it’s requiring more time and pressure in performing the same stopping function, then this is a sure sign of brake pad wear. Hence, changing the brakes is imminent to avoid potential danger.

4. Shaking or Vibrating Steering Wheel When Braking

When your steering wheel is shaking or vibrating when engaging the brakes, this is a sign that the surface of the rotor is uneven. When one part of the disk brake is inconsistent, the brake pads encounter a rough surface during application. This causes you to feel a pulsation when braking, therefore lowering the brakes overall effectiveness.

5. Smoke From the Wheels

When you see smoke coming from the wheels, this is an indication that you have struck the brake caliper. When this happens, it’s recommended to have the brake repaired as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Your safety and that of others are vital when you are driving. Brakes play a crucial role as they allow you to stop, slow down, and help you avert serious accidents. Brakes that are not well maintained can be dangerous. When you require brake servicing providers, Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop can ensure that your car is ready for the road. Schedule an appointment today for complete vehicle services!

What are Anti-lock Braking Systems?

November 19, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

As required by federal law, all modern cars that you see out on the road are equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS). However, many drivers are unaware of what ABS is and how it differs from conventional brakes. In this month’s blog, we discuss the life-saving functions of ABS and common problems car owners may come across.

The Function of ABS

In the case of emergencies and slippery traction, ABS restores traction to the wheels and helps you regain steering control. It stops the wheels from locking up and skidding as well as preventing uneven tire wear. When ABS is activated, it will begin to “vibrate and groan”. This may seem concerning at first and many may think their brakes are failing, but the vibration actually comes from the brakes pulsing numerous times per second. Once you feel or hear the ABS vibrating, continue to firmly press and hold the brake as you steer to safety. If your vehicle does not have ABS or the ABS fails, then you should pump the brake pedal to gain control.

How Do They Work?

Your vehicle’s wheel sensors will recognize when the tires begin to lock up and the ABS will immediately be activated to repeatedly apply and release the brakes in order to prevent skidding. The brake fluid pressure in each wheel will be automatically adjusted to maintain ideal brake performance – which is controlled by an electronic control unit within the system. This pumping action is what differs ABS from conventional brakes when it comes to quickly stopping and maintaining control.

In addition, there are actually two different types of ABS: four-wheel and rear-wheel. Most new cars and minivans have four-wheel ABS which helps with steering. While rear-wheel ABS are usually found in certain SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans. This type of ABS is meant to keep the vehicle from spinning out on slick pavements rather than assist in handling and control. Car owners can check what type of ABS they have by referring to their owner’s manual. An ABS icon will also be on your car’s dashboard when you turn it to accessory mode.

Common Problems with ABS

Many drivers dread seeing an unfamiliar dashboard icon appearing. Your vehicle’s ABS icon lighting up may either be indicating that it’s being activated or there may be an issue reducing the braking effectiveness. If there are any problems, it can be due to a variety of factors including:

Contaminations in the brake fluid
Sensor contamination
Improperly inflated tires
Worn-down tread on your tires
Leaks

Conclusion

A vehicle’s ABS is a life-saving function that can help prevent major accidents in precarious situations. If you recognize any problems, visit Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop for an honest and top quality service. Our ASE certified technicians specialize in repairing brake systems and can provide the necessary solutions to your problems. Get a free estimate from a professional today by calling (817) 834-2725.

Tips for Choosing the Right Mechanic

October 22, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

Not only are vehicles an expensive investment that require constant upkeep and maintenance, they’re also indispensable and invaluable. These machines are required by millions around the world every day to commute to work, receive health care, visit family and for tourism. Keeping your vehicles in tip top shape year round with help from a loyal mechanic will ensure optimal safety on the road and that the vehicle will run well for years to come. Continue along below for our quick guide made to help you find the right mechanic every time!

What to Look For

Certifications – If your mechanic or auto shop can prove that they have received various certifications then you can rest assured knowing they’ve conformed to a certain set of regulatory industry standards. Some certifications to look for include ASE, AAA, and ASA.
Free Estimates – Mechanics should always be able to provide a free estimate for your desired service before they begin any actual work. Even if you’re pretty confident in the legitimacy of your mechanic you should still get a binding written estimate regarding the services they plan to perform.
A Second Opinion – Taking the time to get a second opinion can end up saving you countless time and money in the long run. You can get a second opinion from a knowledgeable friend, another mechanic, or even with a thorough internet search.

What to Avoid

Vagueness – If your mechanic cannot or does not provide an explanation of their plans or concerns in layman’s terms you may want to walk away. A major part of a mechanics job is to translate difficult mechanical issues into plain English, explain to car owners what the problem is, and why it needs to be fixed.
Intimidation – Some mechanics have a bad reputation for providing unnecessary services, essentially taking advantage of customers who are none the wiser. Be weary of mechanics who attempt to scare you into purchasing services they’ve described as being dire or emergent, as that’s not always true.

Final Thoughts

While most auto mechanics are legitimate business owners that do a great job of repairing both new and used vehicles, it’s always best to do a bit of vetting before handing over your keys for a repair. When you choose Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop in Fort Worth, TX you are choosing a local family owned and operated business with nearly twenty years of proven success. Visit our website for a full list of our services or contact us today for your free auto estimate!

Emergency Brakes 101

September 24, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

In a car, there are two brake systems: the primary brakes and the emergency brakes (secondary). Primary brakes use hydraulic pressure to slow down a car while the emergency brakes is completely independent and is instead engaged by levers or cables. If your primary brakes ever fail, this functions as a backup plan to stop your car, hence the name “emergency”. However, many drivers believe that it’s exactly that and only to be used in dire situations. The reality is that you should be using your emergency brakes much more often than you do now. Continue reading to learn more about its functions.

Types of Emergency Brakes

Depending on the model and make of the vehicle, it may have a different type of emergency brake than others. Here are the four main types of emergency parking brakes:

Center lever – Found in most vehicles, the center lever is located next to the driver’s seat.
Pedal – This is a small pedal positioned on the floor next to the gas, brake, and clutch pedals.
Push button – Usually located with the other console controls and is typically an electronic system.
Stick lever – This is found in many older vehicles and is commonly located under the instrument panel.

When Should I Use It?

Your primary brakes are designed to slow your car to a stop, while the emergency brake is designed to hold your car in place. When your primary brakes fail or when you’re trying to stop before a collision, engaging your emergency brakes can help you regain control of your car in extreme situations.

While parking brakes are often referred to as “emergency”, it’s actually recommended to use them for regular parking. Using them while parking on hills is a standard practice, but you should also use them while parking on flat land. It gives your parked car added stability and decreases the chances of it from rolling when hit.

It’s also very beneficial to use them every once in a while because it prevents rust from forming and negatively affecting their performance when it counts. Not to mention, it actually takes a lot of stress off of your transmission and parking pawl. The parking pawl is a hammer-shaped pin that locks up your transmission when you put your car into park. If you think about it, this parking pawl is the only thing stopping your car from rolling away while you’re parked. Engaging your emergency parking brake is a good added measure.

How to Use It

A common mistake that people make is putting their car into park before engaging the emergency brake. The correct order is to first come to a complete stop with your primary brakes, set your emergency brake, and then put your car into park before turning off the engine. When you engage your emergency brake, the discs inside your rear wheels expand and squeeze against the inner wheel. This keeps your tires from spinning and prevents your car from rolling away. Always remember to release it before you start driving again because driving with it on can damage your car.

Conclusion

Your emergency brakes can be handy in even ordinary situations. However, if you find yourself experiencing any issues or notice anything concerning with your brakes, it’s time to rely on the professionals. At Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop, we care about your vehicle’s safety and are here to provide a reliable and affordable service. Call 817-834-2725 today for a free estimate!

How to Jump Start a Car’s Battery

August 23, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

Eventually most car owners have to face jump starting other vehicles or needing their vehicle jump started due to battery issues. Oftentimes when car batteries die all they need is a quick electrical recharge from another vehicles battery to return to normal. Reasons for dead car batteries range from leaving on interior and exterior lights to extreme temperatures. Follow along below this month as we describe step-by-step how to jump start a car’s battery.

Items You Will Need

Jumper Cables
Gloves
Owner’s Manual

Important Tips

Read your owner’s manual first. Your manufacturer may advise against jump starting a vehicle due to sensitive electronic circuitry.
Don’t try to jump a frozen battery.
Do NOT jump a battery that is cracked or leaking. This is very dangerous. You will need to purchase a new battery at this point, so call a tow truck or a friend that can help you out.

Step 1: Park vehicles close together so that the jumper cables will easily reach both batteries. Turn off both engines, put on gloves, and properly lock both vehicle’s engine hoods in their upright positions. Remove any tangles from the jumper cables and be sure to not let any of the four metal ends touch one another.

Step 2: Once you’ve located the batteries (check owner’s manual if not sure), identify the two post “terminals”. One is positive (+) and usually red while the other one is negative (-) and usually black. Remove any plastic or rubber protecting the terminals so that you expose the metal beneath.

Step 3: Grab one of the POSITIVE (red) clamps on the jumper cables and attach it to the dead car’s positive terminal post (+ or red). The clamps should have metal teeth that help them grip the terminal post.

Step 4: With both vehicles still turned off, take the POSITIVE (red) clamp at the opposite end of the cables and attach it to the positive terminal post of the good, working battery.

Step 5: Take the NEGATIVE (black) clamp on that same end and attach to the negative terminal of the good, working battery.

Step 6: Take the final NEGATIVE (black) clamp and attach it to negative terminal of the car that is being jump-started.

Step 7: Triple check that all negative and positive terminals are correctly connected before starting the vehicle of the car with the good, working battery. Allow the vehicle to run this way for 3-5 minutes. You can now try to start the dead car as normal. If the engine does not start allow the battery to charge for several more minutes before trying again. At this point both cars should be on and running successfully.

Step 8: Working in reverse order, unhook each of the clamps from the terminals without ever letting the ends touch one another. Safely store jumper cables, remove gloves, and return engine hoods to their normal positions.

Final Thoughts

Engine and battery issues are almost always unexpected and tend to occur at the most inconvenient times. The next time your vehicle won’t start or produces an odd noise or smell, call on the local mechanics at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop in Fort Worth, TX. We are committed to making sure all of our customers are happy with our work and safe on the road.