Types Of Catalytic Converters

A catalytic converter is an important component of your car’s exhaust system. It uses complex chemical reactions to convert toxic pollutants in your car exhaust to less dangerous chemicals. There are a number of different types of catalytic converters; here’s a quick guide.

Two-Way

A two-way catalytic converter is one of the simplest kinds. As the name suggests, it has two major roles. The first one is to capture carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous byproduct created by the burning of gasoline, and change it into carbon dioxide. The second is to capture any unburned fuel that has escaped the engine and change it into carbon dioxide and water vapor. These are particularly common on classic vehicles produced before 1981, foreign cars, and diesel engines.

Three-Way

Most cars these days are equipped with three-way catalytic converters. This type also handles carbon monoxide and unburned fuel, but it additionally handles a third kind of pollution—nitric oxide, a common precursor to acid rain and smog. A three-way converter breaks it down into nitrogen and oxygen before releasing it from the vehicle.

DOC

Finally, a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) is a special type of converter designed to reduce particulate matter created when diesel fuel is burned. To learn more about this and other types of converters, as well as catalytic converter installation in Pacific Beach, check out this link.

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Top 3 Reasons Your Suspension Fails

Your car’s suspension is responsible for protecting you from bumps, and it’s designed to handle a lot of motion—but in some cases, the suspension can fail and make your ride a lot rougher. Here are some of the most common reasons for suspension failure.

Corrosion

First of all, rust can be a significant problem. Most suspension springs are made out of steel, which can corrode when exposed to moisture and oxygen. If you regularly drive your car in wet conditions, it could lead to your suspension weakening. Road salt (used to melt snow) can make the problem worse in some cases.

Age

Next, the age of the system can cause it to become weaker over time. Every time metal bends, it gets slightly weaker, and each time your suspension vibrates it creates a tiny bend in the metal. Although it takes millions of these vibrations to cause any major problems, this does mean that an older suspension is usually not in the condition it used to be.

Damage

Finally, if the suspension is overloaded or experiences a particularly strong jolt, it can cause failure. Although this is rare, it’s a good reason that you should take bumps slowly and avoid exceeding your car’s maximum weight limit. Click here for more information on suspension adjustment in San Diego.

The Benefits Of Installing A Dual Exhaust For Your Car

A dual exhaust system is an excellent upgrade to your vehicle—not only does it improve the appearance, but it can also help your vehicle perform better. Here are a few major benefits that you can get form having a dual exhaust system installed.

Better Flow

First of all, a dual exhaust system allows your car to eject emissions more quickly, eliminating waste and improving air flow. This improved flow can increase the amount of oxygen available to the engine,boosting both efficiency and performance.

Higher Efficiency

This means that a dual exhaust system can significantly increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, which means you’ll have to use less gas. This can save you money and make things more convenient (since you won’t have to fill up as often). Plus, it’s better for the environment.

More Power

Dual exhaust systems also allow you make your engine more powerful, increasing the combustion rate and giving you a bit of extra horsepower. If you need your engine to be stronger, then installing a dual exhaust system might help.

Cooler Ride

Finally, dual exhaust systems are a great way to personalize your vehicle. They can change the sound of your engine, making it deeper and more powerful; there are also a variety of options to help it look great. Click here to learn more about dual exhaust installation in San Diego.

Getting a Tune-Up

 

When your car’s performance starts getting hindered, it is definitely time for a tune-up. Drop your vehicle off at a professional auto body shop, and you will know exactly what the problem is.

Signs Your Exhaust Needs Repair

Without your exhaust system, your car would have a number of significant problems—which means that it’s important to make sure that everything is running smoothly. Here are a few common signs of exhaust trouble, as well as what they might mean.

Physical Damage

First of all, if your exhaust system is visibly damaged, it’s a sure sign that it needs repaired. Although damage can come through a collision or other accident, you should also check for more subtle problems such as corrosion, cracking, or rust. If there are any holes or weak patches in your muffler or exhaust pipes, be sure to get the system checked.

Strange Sounds

Another potential sign of trouble is if you notice any unusual noises. If your engine is running louder than normal, it can mean that your muffler is damaged; if your car rattles when idling, it could mean that your catalytic converter is not working properly. Get professional advice if your car begins making strange sounds.

Poor Efficiency

Lastly, lower fuel efficiency might be a sign that something is wrong with your exhaust system. If the exhaust is damaged, then your engine has to work harder, which forces it to consume more fuel; if you’re buying more gas then normal something might be wrong. Check out this website to learn more about exhaust repair in San Diego.

How To Tell If Your Muffler Needs Repair

Your car’s muffler is designed to decrease the amount of noise that the exhaust emits—but if it’s not working correctly, it could cause some problems for your vehicle. Here are a few easy ways to tell if your muffler needs to be repaired or replaced.

Loud Noises

First of all, you might be facing a problem ifyour exhaust noise is unusually loud or powerful. This is often the sign of an exhaust leak, which means that your muffler might have a hole in it. If you notice strange noises, then find a repair shop as soon as possible.

Condensation

Next, you may have a muffler problem if you notice condensation from your exhaust pipes. This can be a sign that the muffler is beginning to wear out, and it causes problems because the condensation can collect in your car’s inner workings and begin to corrode them. Excessive condensation should be checked by a professional.

Misfiring

Finally, engine misfiring can be another sign that your muffler is not working properly, especially when your car is slowing down. Although there can be many causes for a misfire, one common one is that the muffler or other exhaust system components are damaged. If you think you might need muffler service in La Jolla, follow this link for more information.

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The Importance Of Wheel Alignment

Sometimes issues come up with your vehicles that are simply a result of you driving a lot. One of those problems is your tires coming out of alignment. If you start noticing any changes in the performance of your car, then it is time to take it to a shop for a quick checkup.

Ensure Optimal Driving

When tires get misaligned, there is an increased likelihood that your car is going to pull off to one side. You may try to keep your car straight, but it keeps pulling off to the right or left. This is a huge inconvenience and can also be dangerous if you are not careful.

Keep Tires Viable for Longer

Good alignment is also great for ensuring your tires remain viable for a longer time. If your tires are constantly being abused and being pulled off to the side, then they are going to need to be replaced much sooner than you were expecting.

Eliminate Vibrations

Misalignment also results in vibrations being felt inside your vehicle as you are driving. This makes any trip insanely uncomfortable. Other components can also be damaged from these vibrations.

Wheel alignments should be done once in a while to have peace of mind your car is operating efficiently. For a great front end wheel alignment in Pacific Beach, visit this website for more information.

Why Having a Running Board Is Important

Running boards are typically installed on trucks and SUVs. They serve a couple important functions, so if you do not currently have one on your vehicle, then you may want to look into acquiring one.

You Get a Boost

The thing about most trucks is that they are often raised off the ground a little bit. Depending on how tall you are, it can be a challenge to get inside. A running board serves as a little step to give you a leg up and make your day a little easier. Additionally, you can have running boards installed on any doorway in your vehicle, so you can install them for the back doors and passenger seat as well. This will make things easier on any children you have who you need to drive around.

Your Truck Gets a Little Protection

As you are driving along, your truck’s wheels may pick up pieces of debris. From rocks to pieces of asphalt, anything can come up and hit the side of your vehicle. A running board serves as a shield of sorts in order to catch some of that debris and protect your truck.

Numerous types of running boards are out there, so you can get the perfect one for your vehicle. Find outstanding running boards in Murrieta by paying a visit to this website.

A Shell for Your Needs

 

From high clearance to large doors, camper shells can come with a variety of features to suit any application. Use your truck the way you want by outfitting it with the right shell.

Types Of Equipment You Can Store On Your Truck Rack

If you frequently have to transport a bunch of cargo around, you may not have enough space in your bed to do the job adequately. Installing a truck rack can provide you with some additional space so that you always have what you need with you.

Canoes and Kayaks

Do you enjoy hitting the river when it gets hot out? It may be that time of year to bust out the kayak and take the family on a fun trip. However, there is always the challenge of actually getting the kayak or canoe to the river. A truck rack makes the job exceptionally easier.

Work Tools

You might need a lot of equipment for your work. Some of it might be able to go into the bed, but you are going to be in trouble if a few items still do not fit. You may not want to put certain items inside your truck, so a rack makes a useful addition.

Luggage

When a big move is planned, you have to figure out how you are going to get everything to your new house. A truck rack gives you some extra space, so you may not even have to worry about renting a moving truck.

Truck racks come in handy for a variety of occasions. If you are interested to see what truck racks in San Diego you can get, then go to this website.

Truck Lights You Should Be Using For Winter

As winter is approaching, it is good to look at your truck and see if anything needs to be changed or added. The winter brings new weather and driving conditions you need to be prepared for. That involves getting the best lights for your vehicle.

Fog Lights

The winter brings a greater chance of there being fog. Sometimes fog can get so bad that you can barely see what is in front of you. You need to increase your visibility as much as you can. A good way to accomplish that is to install lights specifically designed for dealing with fog.

Reliable Brake Lights

Having the right lights is more than just ensuring that you are able to see. It also means making sure everyone else is able to see you. Take a look at your brake lights before the temperature really starts to drop. They should be perfectly visible, and you may want to get new ones if they are fading.

Above all else, you want to ensure you have the best, brightest bulbs available. You may not always need bulbs that are exceedingly bright, but you can look into installing a dimmer option so that you can control the brightness. Go to this website whenever you need new truck lights in Clairemont Mesa.

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The Benefits Of Having A Truck Grille

Truck grilles make for a fine cosmetic addition to your vehicle. However, they not only look nice. They also provide several practical advantages that make purchasing one a wise investment.

Protection in the Event of an Accident

While no one wants to think about the possibility of being involved in a car crash, they do happen quite frequently. You may eventually find yourself in one, and you want to be as prepared as possible. Since truck grilles are made out of incredibly durable materials, they do offer a certain amount of protection if you get hit in the front of your vehicle. In particular, grilles are great for safeguarding your vehicle’s radiator, which is generally located directly behind the component.

Protection Against Everyday Damage

Collisions will hopefully never occur or only ever happen seldom. However, every day you drive, you can expect rocks, dirt and various other pieces of debris to fly up from your tires and hit the front of your truck. Over time, these little items can result in big damage. A reliable grille keeps your truck in great shape and will continue looking resilient long after you have installed it.

Your new grille can be made out of a number of exceptional materials. Visit this website to find great truck grilles in Murrieta.

When To Have Your Car Tuned Up

Regular car tune-ups are a necessity to ensure your vehicle continues operating efficiently. While every car is different, there are some general guidelines you should abide by. Here are a few instances of when it would be prudent to schedule a checkup.

Mileage

Most vehicles will need a checkup once every 30,000 to 45,000 miles. Even if nothing seems wrong at these points, it is still a good idea to do it just to be sure. Most parts will need to be swapped out with newer ones at this point, so you can get new components installed during this time.

Symptoms Come Up

You should also look into a tune-up when certain problems present themselves. For example, if you constantly have problems with starting your engine, then it might be a sign that one part or several components are about to fail completely. There are several other symptoms you need to be aware of so that you can get your car looked at, and they include:

• Rough performance
• Lowered gas mileage
• Frequent stalling
• Misfiring
• General degrade in performance

Your car can have a length lifespan as long as you take care of it. Schedule tune-ups frequently, and schedule one now if it has been a while. Visit this website when you need a car tune-up in Sunnyvale.

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Reasons To Take Your Car To A European Car Repair Shop

European vehicles are a great choice for American buyers. However, you want to ensure it is looked after by the best. Find a European auto shop near you that can perform maintenance on your vehicle when the need arises.

Perfect Tools

European cars are made slightly differently than other vehicles. They require certain tools and parts that some shops simply do not have. If you take your vehicle to a shop that specializes in these vehicles, then you can be certain they are going to have the tools required to properly work on your car.

Experienced Technicians

In addition to a shop having the right tools, an auto body shop should also have workers who know what your vehicle needs. If you take a European car to an auto body worker who has never worked on that kind of car before, then there is a high likelihood he or she is going to make a mistake. You do not want more harm than good happening to your car, so make sure your worker has experience with this field.

You want to be certain your vehicle is looked after by the best, and the best is often a European car shop. In the event you require European car repair in Mountain View, go to this website.

How To Tell If Your BMW Needs Repair

A BMW is a special kind of car. However, like other vehicles, they need tune-ups every now and then to perform at their best. There are a few things to take note of in order to know when it is time to take your vehicle to a shop for repairs.

Transmission Failure

An easy way to tell that your transmission is going on the fritz is that you are going to smell something burning. Clunking noises and gear slipping are also symptoms. Take your BMW into a shop as soon as you notice something going on with your transmission because if you wait, you may encounter more expensive repairs.

Tire Problems

You know something is going on with your tires when you start feeling vibrations coming from your vehicle any time you drive. Tires need to be replaced every so often any way because over time, the tread is going to wear out.

Engine Seizing

A knocking sound coming from your car’s engine is never a good sign. The reason why this is happening could be any number of issues. You likely will not have the tools to inspect and fix the situation, so an expert will need to be brought in.

As long as you fix problems as soon as they come up, you should have no problem driving your BMW. This website is here for you whenever you require BMW repair in Cupertino.

A Well-Maintained Car

 

This car looks like it just rolled off the lot. In order to ensure your own vehicle continues to look that way, make sure you take it to a shop frequently for check-ups and maintenance.

What To Do After You Have Been In A Car Accident

Car accidents can happen any time. You need to be ready just in case one ever happens to you, and that entails knowing what to do immediately following one.

Check on the Other Party

After you pull off to the side of the road, if you are able to, you want to check on the other driver and passengers. Make sure everyone is OK, and if anyone is hurt, contact an ambulance. Make sure you exchange all pertinent information such as insurance materials and phone numbers.

Call Your Insurance Provider

In order to get the most out of your auto insurance coverage, you want to get in touch with your company right away. Let them know what happened and how bad your car is. You will receive advice on how to proceed.

Get Your Car Repaired

You might get information related to what auto shops in your area can fix your car based on your insurance. Even if everything looks fine, you still want to get your vehicle checked out. Something may have been damaged that you cannot see, and you want to make sure professionals examine it.

By following a few simple steps, you will be in a better position to get through this incident better. If you need to find a great car body repair shop in Raleigh that can assist you, visit this website.

The Importance Of Auto Frame Repair

Your car’s frame is a crucial component that gives your vehicle its shape and offers some protection in the event of a crash. This frame can be compromised following an accident, so it is vitally important you get it fixed before you go back on the road.

Increased Safety During a Collision

Many accidents are fairly minor. Only a little damage might be done and everyone involved is perfectly fine. However, your frame may have been damaged during this little collision. If you end up being in another accident in the future, you have a compromised frame that may not hold up as well next time. Drive around with peace of mind by knowing your frame is secure.

Enhanced Ride Quality

The frame also plays a crucial role in how well your vehicle handles. If you drive with a faulty frame, you may notice that driving around feels a little wobbly or your vehicle veers off to one side frequently. This is inconvenient and also dangerous. Your tires may also wear down prematurely if they constantly have to support a worn out vehicle.

You cannot always see damage done to your frame, so take it to a shop following an accident to get it examined. For efficient auto frame repair in Garner, this website is the place to go.

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The Benefits Of Auto Detailing

Although many people use the terms “car cleaning” and “car detailing” interchangeably, there are some key differences. Detailing does involve cleaning your vehicle, but it also reconditions it. Both the interior and exterior can be completely renovated through this process, and there are some great advantages to it.

Every Vehicle Can Get It

A great thing about detailing is that no matter what you can drive, you can get it detailed. Standard cars are a great choice, but you can also get it for:

• Trucks
• SUVs
• Motorcycles
• RVs
• Buses
• Airplanes

Looks How You Want It

You may have a very specific idea for how you want your vehicle to look. You may not be able to purchase a car that looks just like it. However, you can get it detailed so that it fits in more with your vision.

Protection From the Elements

When you take your vehicle to a shop for detailing, make sure to ask the professionals about what protections you can get. Rain, wind and other elements can wear down your car and make the paint look faded. Detailing can reduce the amount of damage your car takes on.

Detailing jobs can be fairly simple or incredibly extensive. If you want to learn more about getting an auto detailing in Raleigh, then go to this website.

When To Repaint Your Car

Your car should be an extension of yourself. You want to ensure it continues functioning efficiently, but you also want to make sure it just looks nice. There are certain times when a repainting will be highly recommended.

Metal Is Showing

Over time, the paint on your vehicle is going to chip off. This can happen due to the weather or little scratches that happen from time to time. If the metal gets exposed, then it can really stand out and make your car look a little junky. Fix it with a repainting.

You Want a New Color

Sometimes there is nothing wrong with the current paint, but you just want something different. Perhaps you have a plain white car and want something with a little more personality. Talk with a car shop painter to see what can be done and how much it would cost.

You Want to Sell Soon

You may eventually want to sell your vehicle. When you are doing this, you want to get as much as you can. If the paint has faded, then potential customers may not be willing to shell out as much cash.

Repainting your vehicle is a simple job that will have your car looking as though it has just rolled off the lot. Go to this website the next time you need auto body painting repair in Clayton.

A Little Work

 

If you’re looking to make your car look its absolute best, a bit of paint or some auto work could go a long way. Buffing out the dents and scratches is easy with a professional.

3 Reasons To Fix Your Windshield

A tiny crack in your windshield may not seem like much, but you need to be careful. When it comes to your car, a little problem can quickly become a huge issue. Your windshield needs to be maintained so that you can continue driving safely.

1. Windshield Has More Integrity

A crack may not seem like much, but if you end up in a car accident, a crack means there is an increased likelihood the entire windshield will shatter. Fixing it gives you more peace of mind should a collision ever occur.

2. See Clearly

Depending on where the crack is located, it can be right in your line of sight. This makes it difficult to see while you are out driving. This also increases your chances of ending up in a fender bender.

3. Avoid Getting a Ticket

If a police officer sees you driving with a cracked windshield, do not be surprised if you end up getting a ticket. It is illegal to drive with a broken windshield. Ultimately, it is in your best interest to fix it before you run into the law.

There are numerous risks to driving with a chipped windshield, so avoid driving around with one entirely. Go to this website as soon as you realize you need windshield repair in Clayton.