My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Vehicle Alignment for Optimal Performance

The Importance of Vehicle Alignment for Optimal Performance

Vehicle alignment, a seemingly simple aspect of car maintenance, plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience. Yet, it's a facet often overlooked until issues arise. In this blog, we'll dive into the world of vehicle alignment, exploring what it entails, why it matters, and how maintaining proper alignment contributes to both vehicle performance and safety on the road.

Understanding Vehicle Alignment: Vehicle alignment refers to the positioning of a vehicle's wheels in relation to each other and the road surface. It involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to ensure they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Proper alignment encompasses three key angles: toe, camber, and caster, each influencing how the vehicle handles and performs.
Toe Alignment: Toe alignment refers to the angle at which the tires point inward or outward when viewed from above. A "toe-in" alignment means the front of the tires is slightly closer together than the rear, while a "toe-out" alignment means the opposite. Proper toe alignment ensures that the tires wear evenly and aids in stable and straight-line driving.
Camber Alignment: Camber alignment relates to the vertical tilt of the wheels when viewed from the front or rear of the vehicle. A slight inward or outward tilt is normal, but excessive camber can lead to uneven tire wear and handling issues. Proper camber alignment promotes even tire contact with the road and optimal vehicle stability.
Caster Alignment: Caster alignment involves the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. It influences steering stability and the returnability of the steering wheel to its straight-ahead position after a turn. Proper caster alignment contributes to straight-line stability and enhanced steering control.
Benefits of Proper Vehicle Alignment:
- Extended Tire Life: Proper alignment ensures that the tires wear evenly, preventing premature wear on one side and extending the overall lifespan of the tires.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: When the wheels are properly aligned, there is less rolling resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency and cost savings over time.
- Enhanced Handling and Performance: Correct alignment contributes to optimal vehicle handling, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience.
- Safer Driving Conditions: Properly aligned wheels enhance stability and control, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall safety on the road.
Signs of Misalignment:
- Uneven Tire Wear: Excessive wear on the inner or outer edges of the tires is a common sign of misalignment.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If the vehicle tends to drift or pull to one side, it may indicate alignment issues.
- Crooked Steering Wheel: A steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight suggests a need for alignment.
- Vibration or Steering Instability: Vibrations or a shaky steering wheel can be indicative of misaligned wheels.
When to Seek Alignment Services:
- After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: Impact with road hazards can throw off wheel alignment and should prompt an alignment check.
- New Tire Installation: When installing new tires, it's advisable to have the alignment checked to ensure even wear and optimal performance.
- Suspension Repairs: Any repairs or modifications to the suspension system may affect wheel alignment and warrant an alignment check.
Professional Alignment Services: Seeking the expertise of a professional alignment service is essential for accurate and precise adjustments. Professional technicians use specialized equipment to measure and adjust the angles, ensuring that the vehicle's alignment meets manufacturer specifications.

Vehicle alignment is not merely a technical detail but a fundamental aspect of maintaining a safe and efficient driving experience. Regular alignment checks and adjustments contribute to even tire wear, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced handling. As drivers, embracing the importance of vehicle alignment is a proactive step towards ensuring that our vehicles steer straight, handle well, and remain in optimal condition for the journeys ahead.

Steering Straight: The Importance of Vehicle Alignment for Optimal Performance

The Importance of Vehicle Alignment for Optimal Performance