Beat the Heat: How to Keep Your Car Cool in Kenner, LA
In the 1700s, Benjamin Franklin popularized the saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to automobiles, this means that investing in preventative maintenance is far more cost-effective than dealing with auto repairs.
That’s why manufacturers provide factory-recommended maintenance services, which involve proactively replacing certain parts before they fail and lead to more expensive repairs. In this article, we’ll explore common car problems that can be avoided with proper preventative maintenance. If you need maintenance or full-service auto repair, don’t hesitate to contact CAMS Automotive in Kenner, LA.
1. Tire Blowout Can Be Prevented with Tire Inspections
Experiencing a tire blowout while traveling at speeds of 70 to 80 MPH can be incredibly unnerving. Thankfully, such incidents are often preventable through regular preventive maintenance. Tire blowouts can arise from various factors, including small, unnoticed punctures, impact damage, sizable cuts, or improper tire pressure. Conducting regular tire inspections and maintaining the correct tire pressure are crucial for identifying and preventing potential problems, so ensuring they are a part of your preventive maintenance routine is key.
2. Overheating Vehicle Can Be Avoided with Cooling System Service
An overheating vehicle often results from issues with either your radiator or your coolant system. The coolant, a mixture of antifreeze and water, plays a crucial role in maintaining the engine’s temperature. It prevents overheating in the summer and protects the engine from freezing in the winter. Given the vital role of coolant, it’s evident that coolant service should be an integral part of your regular maintenance routine.
Neglecting to perform the manufacturer-recommended coolant flushes can lead to your vehicle overheating. A coolant flush is a service provided by the mechanics at CAMS Automotive, where they remove all the old coolant, along with any accumulated dirt, debris, and chemical buildup. Essentially, the entire system is thoroughly cleaned out. Subsequently, fresh, new coolant is added to ensure the system operates effectively.
3. Oil Changes Can Help Prevent Engine Failure
The motor oil in your vehicle serves multiple critical functions, including lubrication, cooling, cleaning, and reducing wear and tear on your engine. However, as time passes, the quality of your oil degrades due to contamination with dirt and debris. Eventually, this aging motor oil thickens and forms sludge, losing its ability to effectively protect your engine. In fact, sludge from old motor oil can do more harm than good, as it can trap heat, accelerate wear and tear on engine components, and reduce efficiency.
The good news is that the solution is straightforward—regularly change your oil. Delaying or skipping oil changes puts you on a path toward costly engine repairs or even engine replacement. As a full-service auto repair center in Kenner, LA, we don’t simply perform oil changes and replace filters; we also conduct a comprehensive vehicle inspection. If we detect excessive wear and tear or any irregularities, we will promptly inform you, allowing you to make informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs.
4. Brake Rotor Repair Can Be Prevented by Changing Brake Pads
Brake rotors are a crucial component of your vehicle’s braking system. These large metal discs are located inside each wheel and work in conjunction with your brake pads to bring your vehicle to a stop when you press the brake pedal. Rotors are designed with an even, smooth surface to ensure smooth braking performance.
However, if you continue driving with old and worn brake pads, symptoms such as squealing or grinding noises, reduced braking efficiency, and a vibrating brake pedal can surface, signaling the need for attention. The metal from the worn pads will begin to damage the smooth surface of the rotor. When this occurs, you may find yourself in need of brake rotor resurfacing or replacement. The more prudent and cost-effective approach is to opt for brake pad replacement. During a brake pad replacement service at CAMS Automotive, our skilled mechanics will remove your old brake pads and install new ones, ensuring your braking system operates smoothly and safely.
5. Avoid Complete Engine Failure with Timing Belt Replacement
The timing belt in your vehicle plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper performance of your engine by synchronizing the movement of the pistons and valves. However, like most components, it is subject to wear and tear due to excessive heat and continual use over time. This is why manufacturers recommend replacing the timing belt as a preventative maintenance measure, generally every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, although this can vary.
Neglecting this essential maintenance can lead to a failed timing belt, which disrupts the coordination between pistons and valves, potentially causing them to collide. This can result in:
- Damaged pistons
- Damaged valves
- Compromised cylinder head
In situations where the damage is extensive, it might necessitate a complete engine replacement, making adherence to the recommended timing belt replacement intervals vital for maintaining the longevity and reliability of your engine.
Contact the Best Full-Service Auto Repair Center in Kenner, LA — CAMS Automotive
Ensuring the well-being of your vehicle begins and concludes with diligent preventative maintenance. The seasoned professionals at CAMS Automotive provide comprehensive auto repair and maintenance services for nearly all makes and models. Don’t hesitate to reach out to CAMS Automotive today to safeguard your vehicle.
