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What Causes Vibration while Braking?

February 24, 2020 / / 0 Comments

You’re driving along and hit the brakes when you suddenly feel a shaking. It’s not an earthquake, it’s coming from your car. Feeling your entire vehicle vibrate isn’t a pleasant experience, but an experienced car mechanic will likely be able to diagnose the issue quickly.

If a car shakes while braking it’s likely one of the following issues.

Warped Brake Rotors

If the brake rotors are not perfectly flat, this can lead to vibrations. If there is enough metal present, the surface can be smoothed out with a machining lathe. Generally the entire rotor will need to be replaced and smoothed out before installing. Even when rotors are new they should be turned on a lathe as they can warp while in storage. Warped rotors are a problem that is most often seen in new cars. In order to make a car fuel efficient, manufacturers keep the car as light as possible. Instead of the thicker, much heavier brake rotors of past, newer cars have much less heavy metal as a strategy to increase its fuel economy.

Worn Brake Pads or Brake Drums

Oil and dirt on your brake pads can prevent the surface from being perfectly smooth, which is needed for clean, shake-free braking. Brake pads or brake drums can similarly be worn down so that the surface is rough and uneven. In this case the solution is similar, smooth out the surface or replace completely. Any surface irregularities will lead to car vibration. If the shaking continues for too long without being fixed, it can damage other components within the braking system. It’s much less expensive to replace a worn out part of your braking system than the entire braking system.

“Tightening the front wheel lugs with the wrong tool can lead to vibration.”

Overly Tight Front Wheel Lugs

Tightening the front wheel lugs with the wrong tool can lead to vibration. A torque wrench will allow you to tighten all wheel lugs to the same level of tension. A pneumatic wrench will not give you a consistent level of tension so it’s easy to overtighten a wheel lug which can lead to warped brake rotors.

Problems with Brake Guide Pins

The guide pin is a part of a car’s brake caliper. If they are dirty and corroded they won’t work properly. Making sure your guide pins are clean and properly lubricated will keep them functioning in peak condition.

Experiencing problems with your brakes? Contact us today to see how we can help.

What is ASE Certification & Why is it Important?

January 28, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Is your car making strange sounds on your morning commute? Have you been looking for a reliable mechanic to trust your normal maintenance schedule with? One way you can know your car is being well cared for is if the mechanic is ASE certified. Keep reading to discover what it is and why ASE certification is important for your vehicle care.

*Note: If you’ve found an ASE certified mechanic you can trust, give our other article a read to learn how to properly work with your mechanic for a flawless maintenance trip every time.

Mechanic and customer giving a thumbs up.
Mechanic and customer giving a thumbs up.

What is ASE Certification?

When it comes to choosing your mechanic, finding one with that little blue and white sticker can be highly reassuring for consumers. Standing for “Automotive Service Excellence,” this certification process is designed to test and certify automotive professionals. The certification process began in 1972 and is used as the standard of excellence for every mechanic in the nation. It’s also useful to note that clients can ask which mechanics in a specific shop are ASE certified and request only their services.

Why is it Important?

With the need to properly maintain and care for your vehicle, finding an ASE certified mechanic or shop provides peace of mind in caring for your vehicle. For auto repair shops it’s highly beneficial because they know they’ve hired knowledgeable and professional mechanics to serve their clientele. Consumers will also rest easy knowing their vehicles are being cared for by a professional mechanic with the necessary training to keep their cars running the way they should.

How it Works

As a measuring tool for consumers, it’s important to understand just how the certification process works for your own knowledge. There are two types of ASE certifications with specific requirements and criteria’s for each. ASE certification requires mechanics to have at minimum two years of automotive experience and should be able to finish and pass at least one of the specialty exams.

Mechanic smiling while working on a vehicle.
Mechanic smiling while working on a vehicle.

For an ASE Master Certification, mechanics who’ve taken and passed the ASE exams on various subjects may choose to go for their master certification. For each specific area there are multiple tests which the automotive professional must pass in order to obtain their certification. It’s also a requirement for all ASE certified professionals to renew their certificate every five years in order to maintain their knowledge.

Thoughts With so many automotive shops and professionals to choose from for your vehicle care needs, the search can be narrowed down by looking for that ASE certified sticker. From understanding what ASE certification is to why it’s important, you’ll be able to trust your car is being well cared for. If you’re still searching for your personal mechanic, bring your vehicle into Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop where our ASE certified mechanics will be able to properly maintain and care for your car. Contact us today!

Most Common Hazards While Driving in the Snow

December 27, 2019 / / 0 Comments

While it is always important to be confident in your driving skills, especially through difficult weather, it is important to understand the dangers that can come with it. With the world throwing any type of rain or shine at us however it sees fit, there is nothing more vital than knowing how to handle the changing seasons when driving on the road. There is no better example of a weather hazard than those that come up when it snows. Read further to learn about the most common hazards that can arise when it snows and how to avoid them.

Dying Battery From the Cold:

A more indirect effect of snow, the extreme cold and insulation created by your hood can result in the draining of your battery. Cold naturally drains the energy out of any battery over time and considering how important they are for a car to run properly, it is important to keep this in mind and take steps to prevent it. The easiest ways to prevent your battery from losing its charge are to get the battery checked before the cold season comes to ensure it is not already low and trying to keep your car parked in some kind of enclosure or garage at all times when it’s not running. Another helpful tip is to give your car some time to warm up after you turn it on before using any accessories; using the radio or heater as soon as the engine is on may not give the battery enough time to recharge from the drain the cold has called, meaning it could stall.

No Traction on Wheels:

It seems like an obvious bit of advice, but it needs to be said again because of how important it truly is to ensure you keep control of your car while you drive. Snow causes an incredible amount of difficulty for your tires to gain traction on the road, which means that as soon as you relax on the wheel for even a minute, you could end up losing control if even the slightest change of terrain occurs. The most dangerous and common concern when it comes to snow is actually not even the snow itself, it’s the ice it may be covering that you wouldn’t notice. Hidden ice on the road is often referred to as “black ice” due to its extremely dangerous nature and the inability you would have to control your car if you drive over it too fast. Ways of counteracting this lack of traction is to constantly keep both hands firmly on the wheel, don’t take turns too sharply and never drive your car too fast when there are snowy or icy conditions.

Poor Visibility:

There is one constant when it comes to driving a car, if you can’t see where you are going, you can’t drive. One of the largest obstacles a person faces in any kind of bad weather is the issues that arise with visibility. Rain and snow can cause serious issues when it comes to seeing the road in front of you, which means you always need to have an increased sense of vigilance as well as taking steps to lessen the effects. Keeping your heater on the windshield setting while you drive helps to keep new ice from forming or snow from sticking on the windshield while still keeping you warm. Keeping a scraper in your car is also very important to help get the ice buildup off of your windows before you even drive it, because with the air being so cold, it would take way too long for it to melt on its own when you drive. Only use your windshield wipers if there is true snowfall, because the friction of the wipers on the windshield with the cold of the outside air could also cause the window to fog up slightly, further reducing visibility.

Conclusion:

There are plenty of different ways in which you can prevent yourself from danger while driving in the snow, but the most important thing is that you always employ these tips and never get comfortable. The ice and snow are constant hazards which require constant vigilance, so always take them seriously. When it comes to preparing yourself with the best tires and alignment for that upcoming cold season, there is no place better to go than Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop, so come on in and let’s tackle this winter together.

Winter Car Problems and How to Prevent Them

November 26, 2019 / / 0 Comments

The winter brings about cold temperatures that affect vehicles in many different ways. Many drivers experience unique car problems that only happen during the colder season. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent these problems before they occur. Read this blog post to learn some easy fixes for common winter car problems.

Dead Battery

Problem: Dead batteries are one of the most common issues during the winter. Extremely cold temperatures can drain voltage from the battery; on top of that, batteries must also work harder than usual to power the car in the winter. The over-exertion and lack of voltage results in a dead battery.

Prevention: You can fix a dead battery by giving it a jump start, but it’s easier to avoid this problem altogether. The best way to preserve your battery is to park your car in an indoor garage, but if this isn’t an option, buy a new battery before the winter season begins to prepare your vehicle. If you’re keeping your current battery, keep all connections clean and tight to get rid of any substances that can cause corrosion.

Car Won’t Start

Problem: Cars that are left outside overnight often have difficulty starting up. To start the car, turn the key and hold it for no longer than 20 seconds. Turn off all accessories that drain the battery (like the radio, heater, wiper blades, and lights). If the car still won’t start after a couple attempts, you may need a jump-start.

Prevention: To avoid this, turn off all accessories before turning your vehicle off to avoid draining your battery. You can also use block heaters or battery blankets/wraps to keep your engine and battery warm overnight.

Deflated Tires

Problem: When the air in the tires gets colder, it contracts and has less pressure, causing under-inflation. Underinflated tires can overheat and burst, which can result in severe accidents. Factor in the slippery roads and poor tire traction and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

Prevention: Check your tire pressure regularly during the winter, and keep the tire pressure at the level recommended by the car manufacturer. During stormy weather, reduce your speed and downshift to a lower gear. If your tires are old or have worn tread, replace all four tires. If your area has snowfall, ask your local mechanic about installing snow tires.

Frozen Windshield Wipers

Problem: Windshield wipers can freeze to the glass and break, which is inconvenient when you are trying to drive in the middle of a blizzard or downpour.

Prevention: Wipe each wiper down with rubbing alcohol, and clean your windshield of snow and ice before you drive. This can improve visibility, prevent the blades from sticking to the windshield, and clear away any ice that is stuck to the blades. Placing a pair of socks on the blades the night before can save you a world of trouble. You can also purchase hingeless winter wipers, which are made without metal points that snow and ice tend to accumulate on.

Frozen Car Windows

Problem: Ice forms on your windows overnight due to the cold temperatures.

Prevention: Cover your windows with plastic bags, bath mats, or a plastic tablecloth, and secure it with rubber bands or clothespins. Remove them in the morning and your windows will be ice-free! Another way to prevent an ice buildup is to wipe your windows with undiluted white vinegar every night.

Thick Car Fluids

Problem: As the temperature gets colder, the fluids in your car get thicker, causing them to work less efficiently. Think of running molasses through your engine – not a good idea! Thick oils and fluids can cause tears in the internal seals, resulting in expensive damages.

Prevention: Before you leave, run the car for 10-15 minutes; the engine will heat up and thin out the fluids. Change your car fluids on a regular basis, and switch to a low-viscosity oil in the winter. The type of oil you should use is listed in your owner’s manual, or ask your local mechanic for assistance.

Conclusion

The colder temperatures can bring about various car problems. If you need a winter car repair or maintenance service, come to Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop! We’ll get your car fixed up in a flash!

Most Common Transmission Problems

October 30, 2019 / / 0 Comments

When it comes to your transmission, you always want to keep it at its best. The last thing you want is to be left dealing with additional problems due to you not handling your transmission issues right away. Your transmission is a critical component of your vehicle and needs proper care for it to work better as a whole. A faulty transmission is one of the most expensive repairs on the market. It is for this reason that you need to pay attention to the following symptoms to ensure your vehicle doesn’t fall victim to transmission problems.

Gear Shaking or Grinding

Your transmission should always shift smoothly from gear to gear. There should be no grinding, shaking, or slipping of any kind. When symptoms like these occur, you may think of it as insignificant, but it isn’t. This problem won’t go away if you simply ignore it. In fact, it will only get worse. If you are feeling any shaking or grinding, it’s time to get it looked at.

Whining, Humming, or Clunking When In Neutral

Hearing noises like these are not normal, no matter how quiet and unnoticeable the sound may be. Though this issue may likely be minor, it could also be signaling something much worse. When you hear humming or clunking, it can be due to the transmission fluid breaking down. Your transmission fluid has to lubricate all of the mechanical gears and components, so make sure you regularly have it changed.

Do You Smell Something Burning?

When there is a burning smell coming from your vehicle, it is something to be concerned about. The most common cause of the smell is due to overheated fluid. Your vehicle basically runs on this fluid as it helps to protect its complex system. When your fluid begins to deteriorate due to age and mileage, friction damage between all parts will begin to occur. The friction will cause the breakdown of your vehicle’s components as well as a buildup of debris and sludge in your engine.

There are many problems that come along with transmission issues. They start off small, but eventually turn into a costly issue if not cared for properly and in a time efficient manner. If peace of mind is your top priority, then you can count on our team at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop to exceed your expectations.

The Breakdown of a Tune-Up

September 24, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Getting a tune-up on your car may seem like a needless service. However, if you are invested in your car and are hoping it will be running for a while, we suggest a tune-up every so often. Read along with our blog to learn about what a tune-up is and why you should get one!

Checkup

Many people get medical checkups annually to ensure everything inside them is okay! Checkups are great because they can catch a sickness before it becomes a big deal. A car tune-up is very much the same! When you bring your car in for a tune-up, your mechanic will be going down a checklist of parts and systems to check. Some notable ones are spark plugs, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, PVC valves, oil plus coolant levels, and your engine plus cabin air filters. Over time, these basic parts will begin to wear down and need some maintenance.

Why

Little parts and systems in your car may not seem to be very important, but they are in the long run. If just one or two of these systems begins to wear or lag, it isn’t a huge issue. However, over time, all these parts will need to be repaired. Eventually, you are going to be faced with a plethora of mechanical issues which is not only stressful but also costly. Instead of attempting to get a quick fix on all your little maintenance needs at once, you should invest in a tune-up which will ensure everything is good to go. Just like a medical checkup is mostly for preventative measures, so is a tune-up! Instead of waiting till your health is completely unwell, you should annually get checked to get a head start on fixing issues before they become an emergency.

Conclusion

Your vehicle can be an important and key part of your life. If you want to treat it like such, regular tune-ups are essential. Get it regularly checked for underlying mechanical maintenance issues. If you haven’t had a tune-up in a while, check out our website to get started and set up an appointment today!

Basic Tire Maintenance Every Driver Should Know

August 31, 2019 / / 0 Comments

As the only thing between your car and the road, the tires carry quite a bit of pressure. With the amount of rotations they go through to the amount of air normally lost due to how often you drive, a lot can happen to cause excessive wear and tear on your tires. Keep reading to learn more about three of the basic tire maintenance steps every driver should know.

Checking the tire pressure.
Checking the tire pressure.

Check Tire Pressure

To ensure your gas mileage stays in a healthy range and you remain safe on the road, always check and fill your tire pressure. A car’s tires naturally lose about 1-2 psi every month which means continued neglect will result in a dangerous blow-out. Don’t risk your safety and the safety of others while on the road and check your tire pressure periodically.

Rotate Your Tires

Most mechanics recommend rotating your tires every 5-7,000 miles. This is due to the amount of wear most front wheel drive cars experience on their tires. By rotating your front tires to the rear and vice versa you will ensure an even better tread wear on your vehicle. Periodically rotating your tires will also allow you to maintain a good gas mileage. Not taking proper care of your vehicle’s tires will drastically reduce the gas mileage and performance of your car.

Mechanic rotating a car's tires.
Mechanic rotating a car’s tires.

Perform a Visual Inspection

Visual inspections of your tires are a handy way to ensure the tread is still within safety limits. While it is never a good sign that you can tell your tires are going flat, simply taking the time to inspect them will allow you to address any issues. Performing a visual inspection of your tires is an excellent way to spot any cuts or bulges on them.

Thoughts

From simply checking the tire pressure to using proper tire rotation schedules and even visual inspections, you will be able to keep a proper eye on your tire’s wear and tear. Be sure to call on the team at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop for all of your vehicle needs. Call us today to schedule an exceptional tire service!

Common Car Problems & How to Prevent Them

July 25, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Maintaining your vehicle with up-to-date inspections and auto services is essential for your car. Of course, even with such inspections, there may be a reoccurring problem or perhaps a new issue you’re dealing with. From deflated tires to squeaky brakes, we’re going down the list of common car problems and how to prevent them!

Dead Battery

Most car batteries should last about three to five years, or an equivalent of 50,000 miles. A dead battery is usually caused by reduced amps (or electrical currents) which naturally decrease as the battery loses its ability to maintain a charge. A failing alternator, battery temperature sensor, or other charging system component can also cause more damage. Our advice? It’s best to replace your car battery every 50,000 miles or three years, even if it’s not showing signs of damage.

Flat Tires

While most tires become flat after hitting an object or being punctured, it’s likely for wear and tear to be the main cause. Extend your tire’s lifespan by keeping them properly rotated, as suggested by the vehicle manufacturer. Generally, having your tires rotated every 5,000 miles is recommended.

Squeaky Brakes

Like other components in your car, the brake system is intended to wear out over a designated period of time. Brakes are important for stopping safely, so when they start to show any issues, like squeaking or grinding, your vehicle should be inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. A mechanic can replace your brake pads and identify any other underlying problems.

Steering Wheel Shaking

Multiple issues can cause the steering wheel to shake while driving. If it happens right after starting your car or as you begin to drive, it could be from wheel bearings/damaged suspension component. If it happens at higher speeds, it may be from a tire or wheel balance issue. Regardless, having a professional mechanic inspect the problem is your best option!

Conclusion

Dealing with car problems, like a dead battery or flat tires, can be a hassle. We suggest getting your car regularly maintained by the team at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop. We have the necessary equipment and certified staff to get your car fixed in no time. Visit our website for information regarding our professional auto services!

Working With Your Mechanic

June 28, 2019 / / 0 Comments

Many people are hesitant or wary of working with their local mechanic when their car starts to give them trouble. Instead of allowing a professional to work on their vehicle, quick home fixes or expensive dealership trips are made. In today’s blog, we will be discussing different ways that you can work with your local mechanic in order to feel completely secure with the work they can do for you!

Communication

Your mechanic is not a mind reader or the driver of your vehicle. When issues arise, it is important that you are fully able to communicate the situation to your mechanic. If there’s a weird sound occurring, try video or audio taping so you can show them exactly what is happening. Also, if previous work has been done to your car, make sure your current mechanic is up to date on all those details. Maintaining communication will ensure they are able to work on, and solve, all the problems you are having with your vehicle. It is also important to receive good communication back from them. Find out what they believe the issue is, how long it should take to fix, and how much the cost will be. Exchanging numbers so that you can stay in contact while the repairs are being made is also a great way to stay in touch.

Realistic Goals

There are a variety of reasons why you might take your car to a mechanic. All these various issues have different ways of being fixed. Some fixes are easy and should solve the problem entirely. Other fixes are quick and temporary, so you can buy time between now and finding a more permanent solution. These different goals and outcomes should be discussed with your mechanic so that you have a realistic goal in mind. These types of goals will keep you from feeling disappointed and let down when your mechanic is unable to completely fix the problem.


Don’t Hover

Depending on the type of repair you are asking for, the time spent waiting for your mechanic to finish could be short or lengthy. In the case that it is a quick fix and you choose to stay and wait for your vehicle, it is important to give your mechanic space and stay in the designated waiting area. Hovering around your mechanic while they are performing the repair can cause delay in the amount of time it takes to finish, which lengthens the amount of time you’re waiting and also makes it difficult for other people hoping to get a repair. When you are left waiting for your vehicle, it is best to stick to yourself and allow the mechanic to do their work in peace. If you plan on staying while your car is being repaired, bring things to entertain yourself. Bring a phone charger if you plan on playing on your phone or watching a movie, bring a book or magazine, or bring along a sketch book or knitting materials if you have an easy to set up hobby that you enjoy. Allowing your mechanic the proper, unbothered time it takes to correctly finish up your repair is not only good for you, but also helps the people waiting for repairs after you!

Conclusion

Hesitating to send your car to a local mechanic is understandable. When you don’t understand how to work with your mechanic, the idea of taking your car anywhere other than the dealership or to a friend’s garage can be scary. In today’s blog, we discussed ways you can work with your mechanic in order to receive the quality and affordable repairs that you deserve. For more information on mechanic work, head on over to Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop’s website!

Do You Hear That? What Your Car’s Weird Noises Mean

May 17, 2019 / / 0 Comments

It’s a familiar situation for anyone who’s ever owned a car; you’re going about your day, driving to pick up the kids or running errands, when suddenly you notice your car is making an unusual sound. Do you go straight to the repair shop to get it checked out or do you keep driving and hope it goes away? Not knowing what’s causing the sound can make the decision a difficult one, so in this article we’ll explain some of the most common noises and what they mean. You’ll also learn how urgently they need to be addressed by a mechanic.

Squealing, especially when braking.

As one of the most common problems car owners hear, it’s important to know that this is caused by brake pad problems. While the car is not unsafe to drive when this is happening, it’s important that you come for replacements as soon as possible.

Metallic ticking from under the hood.

If you’re hearing a metallic ticking that seems like it’s coming from the engine, park your car, let it cool down a little bit and then check your oil levels. Your oil pressure could be to blame, and if it is, go to the auto repair shop as soon as possible to avoid engine damage.

Hissing.

This is a sound that becomes more common during summer months when the weather is hot; that’s because it’s probably the sound of your engine overheating. You’ll probably notice that the temperature gauge is rising, but even if it’s not, check your coolant levels when the car cools down. Also, beware the smell of maple syrup wafting from under the hood; that’s the smell of leaking or boiling coolant, which is the tell-tale sign of an engine that’s about to overheat. An engine that’s running too hot can eventually stop functioning permanently, so make sure to see a mechanic if adding more coolant doesn’t resolve the problem.

Conclusion

Now that you know what these sounds mean, you’re better equipped at understanding what’s going on with your car. However, the best course of action is always to visit a specialist whenever your car starts making unusual noises. Here at Mike’s Brake & Alignment Shop, we offer reliable and affordable service to resolve any unexpected issues your car might be having. We’ll keep your car running in top condition.

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