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Why Your Vehicle Needs Regular Alignment Checks

August 28, 2024

The Importance of Alignments

At Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing, we know that maintaining your vehicle's health is important for your safety and comfort on the road. One of the most essential but often overlooked services in vehicle maintenance is alignment. What is an alignment, and why is it so important?

What is an Alignment?

Alignment refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension—the system that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It’s not just about adjusting the wheels themselves; it's about ensuring the angles of the tires are set correctly according to the manufacturer's specifications. These angles affect how your tires make contact with the road, and even a small misalignment can lead to significant issues.

Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment

Recognizing when your vehicle needs an alignment can save you money and keep you safe. Here are some common signs:

Uneven Tire Wear: If your tires are wearing out unevenly, especially if you notice more wear on one side than the other, it’s a clear sign that your alignment is off.
Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If you find yourself constantly correcting the steering to keep your vehicle straight, your alignment might be the culprit.
Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel isn’t centered when you’re driving straight, it’s time for an alignment check.
Vibrating Steering Wheel: A vibrating steering wheel can be a sign of alignment issues, especially if the vibration increases with speed.

Why Alignments Are Important

Improved Tire Life: Proper alignment ensures that your tires wear evenly, extending their lifespan. This not only saves you money on tires but also keeps your vehicle safer on the road.
Better Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels create uneven friction with the road, causing your vehicle to work harder and use more fuel. Regular alignments can help you get the most out of every gallon.
Enhanced Handling and Safety: Proper alignment improves your vehicle's handling, making it easier and safer to drive. It ensures your vehicle responds accurately to your steering.
Reduced Wear on Other Components: Misalignment can cause stress on your suspension and steering systems. Regular alignments reduce the strain on these components, preventing costly repairs down the line.

How Often Should You Get an Alignment?

While it depends on your vehicle and driving conditions, we recommend to check your alignment at least once a year. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads, experience a significant jolt like hitting a pothole, or notice any of the signs mentioned earlier, you should schedule an alignment check sooner.

Trust Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing for Your Alignment Needs

Our expert technicians are trained to perform precise alignments using state-of-the-art equipment. We understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in peak condition, and we’re here to ensure your safety on the road.

Don’t wait until misalignment causes bigger problems—schedule your alignment check with us today. Proper alignment is not just about smooth driving; it’s about protecting your investment, saving money, and staying safe. Click here to schedule your alignment inspection or give us a call at any three of our locations!

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When should I change the Transmission Fluid?

February 21, 2025

When Should I Change the Transmission Fluid? Your vehicle’s transmission is one of the most important parts of your vehicle, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Regular transmission fluid changes help with smooth gear shifts, prevent overheating, and extend the life of your transmission. But when exactly should you change your transmission fluid? How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid? The recommended interval for changing transmission fluid depends on several factors such as the type of transmission, your driving habits, and your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Automatic Transmission Fluid Change Intervals Most manufacturers recommend changing automatic transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you frequently tow, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or experience extreme temperatures, you may need to change it as often as every 15,000 to 30,000 miles to prevent excessive wear on the transmission Manual Transmission Fluid Change Intervals Manual transmission fluid generally lasts longer and should be changed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. If you drive in harsh conditions, like frequent stop-and-go traffic or off-roading, you may need to change it more frequently. Signs That Your Transmission Fluid Needs to Be Changed Even if you haven't hit the mileage interval, your transmission may show signs that the fluid needs changing. Slipping Gears – If your vehicle hesitates when shifting gears or slips into another gear unexpectedly Rough or Hard Shifting – If shifting gears feels jerky, rough, or clunky, it could be due to contaminated or degraded fluid. Overheating – A burning smell or high transmission temperature warning on your dashboard Dark or Dirty Fluid – Fresh transmission fluid is typically bright red or pink. If it looks dark, brown, or smells burnt, it's time for a change. Transmission Fluid Leaks – Puddles of red or brown fluid under your vehicle suggest a leak, which could lead to low fluid levels and potential damage. What Happens If You Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid? Failing to change your transmission fluid can lead to costly repairs, including: Increased friction and wear on transmission components Overheating due to poor lubrication Transmission failure Routine maintenance is key to avoiding expensive repairs and ensuring your vehicle performs at its best. Book your next service appointment with Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing today and drive with confidence, knowing your car is in the hands of trusted professionals. Visit us online or give us a call to book your service appointment. Let us help you keep your car running smoothly and safely for years to come! Follow us on our social media to stay up to date on what Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing is up to! Facebook | Instagram

The Importance of Vehicle Maintenance

February 5, 2025

The Importance of Regular Auto Maintenance for Longevity and Performance Owning a vehicle is a significant investment, and to ensure you get the most out of it, regular auto maintenance is key. At Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing, your trusted auto repair shop, we understand that staying on top of your vehicle's maintenance can be a challenge with a busy schedule. However, taking the time to maintain your vehicle can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and extend the life of your vehicle. 1. Avoid Expensive Auto Repairs Routine maintenance helps you catch minor issues before they turn into major, costly problems. For example, regularly changing your oil keeps your engine well-lubricated and prevents damage from overheating. Neglecting oil changes can lead to severe engine damage, which could cost thousands of dollars to repair or even require a full engine replacement. By following a maintenance schedule, you’ll save money on auto repair services in the long run. 2. Improve Vehicle Safety Your vehicle’s safety features, such as brakes and tires, need to be in optimal condition to protect you on the road. Worn brake pads, for example, can reduce stopping power and increase the risk of accidents. Similarly, tires with low tread can affect traction, especially during wet or icy conditions. Regular inspections and auto repair services ensure your safety components are functioning correctly and help reduce the chances of breakdowns or accidents. 3. Enhance Fuel Efficiency A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Simple tasks like keeping your tires properly inflated, replacing dirty air filters, and ensuring your spark plugs are in good condition can improve fuel economy. This means you’ll spend less money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint. Our auto maintenance services can help you achieve optimal fuel efficiency. 4. Maintain Your Vehicle’s Resale Value If you ever decide to sell or trade in your vehicle, its maintenance history plays a crucial role in determining its value. A car with a documented record of regular auto service and repair will likely fetch a higher price compared to one with a history of neglect. Buyers and dealerships alike appreciate knowing that a vehicle has been well cared for. 5. Extend Your Vehicle’s Lifespan Proper maintenance can significantly increase the lifespan of your vehicle. Essential components like the engine, transmission, and suspension system benefit from regular check-ups and timely repairs. By staying proactive with auto repair and maintenance, you can enjoy your car for many more years without frequent breakdowns or the need for early replacement. What Maintenance Services Should You Prioritize? At Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing, we offer a comprehensive range of auto repair and maintenance services, including: Oil Changes : Protect your engine from wear and tear. Brake Inspections : Ensure your brakes respond quickly and effectively. Tire Services: Improve traction, handling, and fuel efficiency. Battery Checks : Avoid unexpected dead batteries. Fluid Services : Keep your engine and other systems running smoothly. Our experienced auto repair technicians can help create a personalized maintenance schedule based on your vehicle’s needs and manufacturer recommendations. We’re also here to answer your questions and empower you with knowledge about your car’s care. Schedule Your Next Auto Repair or Maintenance Service Today Don't wait for a breakdown to remind you of the importance of maintenance. Regular check-ups can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Schedule your next auto repair service appointment with Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing. today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is in expert hands. Visit us online or give us a call to book your service appointment. Let us help you keep your car running smoothly and safely for years to come! Follow us on our social media to stay up to date on what Bob's Main Street Auto & Towing is up to! Facebook | Instagram