Tires may be the only part of a vehicle that physically meets the road, but your shock absorbers are next in line. Working with the suspension springs, they absorb shocks from bumps and cracks in the road, while simultaneously controlling bounce and body roll.
Trucks aren’t like cars...your average personal vehicle usually holds about 5 quarts of oil, and you are supposed to change it every 3-5k miles. However, the same logic doesn’t apply to large trucks. At Autoworks in Ithaca, NY, we know how important proper oil changes and diagnostics are to keep your truck on the road, for hundreds of thousands of miles. Here’s what you need to know:
Everyone from mechanics, to your uncle that works on cars, has at some point given you advice concerning engine oil. The fact of the matter is that while we are familiar with words like “synthetic” and “oil weight,” many people don’t know exactly what the terminology means, or why common knowledge about oil exists in the form that it does. At Autoworks in Ithaca, NY, we keep things clear and simple. The more you know about your vehicle, the better equipped you are to keep it maintained, and we know a thing or two about vehicles. We have compiled a short list of common myths for you, most of which you’ve heard, but maybe never second guessed.
Transmissions are complicated and intricate pieces of equipment. Many general mechanic shops won’t touch a transmission, if it’s anything more than simply installing a new one. Transmissions are one aspect of a vehicle that even experienced mechanics often don’t dare delve into, and is easily the most mysterious and misunderstood system in the automotive world. You need a shop that you can trust to perform the best work on whatever your transmission may be in need of.
At Autoworks in Ithaca, NY, we know there’s a lot of conflict on when you should maintain certain things on your truck. We also know there are consequences to neglecting maintenance; the difference between a truck that breaks down all the time and a truck that has covered over a million miles virtually trouble-free all boils down to maintenance.
If you own or operate a fleet or commercial truck, you know it’s hard to keep everything working perfectly all the time. You have to choose what types of maintenance to give priority to, and what can wait. However, some small problems are indicators that a bigger issue is on the way. At Autoworks in Ithaca, NY, our goal is to keep your fleet going.
The steering and suspension systems are key safety-related systems that largely determine your car’s ride and handling. Have these systems checked regularly, at least once a year, and usually with a wheel alignment.
What does it do? - The suspension maintains the relationship between the wheels and the frame or unibody. The suspension system interacts with the steering system to provide vehicle control. When working properly, the suspension system helps absorb the energy from road irregularities such as potholes and helps to maintain vehicle stability. The steering system transmits your input from the steering wheel to the steering gear and other steering components to control the car’s direction.
Typical Wear and Tear - Over time, steering and suspension components wear out and require replacement. Regular checks are critical to maintaining a safe car. Factors that affect wear include driving habits, operating conditions (potholes in road), vehicle type, type of steering and suspension system, and frequency of regular maintenance. Some symptoms that you are having issues with your vehicle steering and suspension include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, excessive noise, vibration or bouncing, and loss of control.
Call or come by Autoworks in Ithaca today to have our professionals make sure your car is road-ready!
What are radial tires, where do they come from, and why are they important? If you own or operate a fleet or commercial truck, radial tires are an advancement you’re thankful for, whether you realize it or not. Here’s why, from Autoworks in Ithaca, NY.
