Vehicle maintenance can save you money!
A good way to help keep your vehicle operating efficiently is by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. A well maintained vehicle – including regular oil changes and proper tire inflation – is going to use less fuel, which will save you money at the gas pump. [Read more…]
As global citizens, we have a responsibility to protect our planet for future generations, and one of the ways we can do so is by minimizing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
One of the largest contributors to GHG emissions in the developed world is the burning of gasoline to power our vehicles. In fact, the average light-duty vehicle produces roughly three times its weight in carbon dioxide (CO2) every year. And if poorly driven and maintained, it can generate even more CO2.
According to Environment Canada, passenger cars and light-duty trucks produce 13% of all CO2 emissions in Canada. Recognizing this, vehicle manufacturers are forever coming up with new ways to make our vehicles more efficient, but these technological advancements can only do so much. As car owners, we too must work to reduce our carbon footprint by properly maintaining our vehicles. [Read more…]
Winter has been hard on your car – among other things, the cold temperatures and icy conditions have taken a toll on your belts and hoses, brakes, and exhaust system. Though you may not notice these changes, they can put your car at risk of breaking down.
Small car problems have a tendency to become major ones at the most inopportune moments. Most Canadians report that they do not budget for repairs, so these surprise car troubles put them at risk of being stuck with a hefty garage bill they can’t afford. Avoid getting caught off guard – invest a little in a thorough inspection and basic maintenance now to avoid major damage, prepare financially for upcoming repairs, and ensure your safety. [Read more…]
After a long winter, you’re likely ready to give up your hibernating ways for some adventure and sunshine. For many Canadians this means family vacations, trips to the cottage, camping excursions, and weekend road trips. Whatever your style, chances are you are getting ready to hit the road, but are you confident that your car is in good enough shape to get you there safely and efficiently?
Winter’s cold temperatures and icy conditions have been hard on your car, so it is likely showing some signs of wear and tear. Spring is the perfect time to bring your car in for a full inspection to identify any minor problems, before they become major ones.
Here are some tips to keep your car running safely this spring and summer: [Read more…]
![[cml_media_alt id='3982']Belt Service Schedule[/cml_media_alt]](http://www.becarcareaware.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/belt-service-schedule.png)
When it comes to having your car repaired, you likely have a lot of questions. Eventually you will hear your technician recommend replacing your belt, but why? Have you ever wondered what role your serpentine belt plays on your engine? [Read more…]
![[cml_media_alt id='3966']Spring Break Car Care [/cml_media_alt]](http://www.becarcareaware.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/March_break_check_up.jpg)
Safe driving starts with a safe vehicle. Before you leave for your spring break road trip, here are 3 things that you can do before pulling out of your driveway: [Read more…]
If your car heater packs it in this winter, you’ll likely have to entomb yourself in extra clothing and blankets to stay warm while on the road. And even then, your chattering teeth are likely to be distracting. [Read more…]
Your “check engine” light comes on, you need new tires, your vehicle is making an odd sound, or it is time for an oil change – whatever the reason, you can’t postpone it any more. It is time to bring your vehicle to your automotive service provider.
There are a myriad of reasons around why we delay having service and repair work done – mostly related to the impact on our pocketbooks – but knowing and trusting the person working on our vehicle also has a significant influence. [Read more…]
As you visit your preferred service provider, or perhaps search for a new service provider, one of the topics to understand is how the shop conducts inspections.
In years gone by, during simpler vehicle technologies, many inspections could be done visually and perhaps without need for removal of parts to access needed areas of the vehicle. A visual inspection is just that – visual – and it does not include the removal of items to access the components to properly check for mechanical fitness. For example, many vehicles today have batteries located in areas that cannot be easily reached. [Read more…]