Q: Why do my brakes squeal?

A: Today’s vehicles are equipped with disc brakes, which use a caliper and brake pads to hydraulically 'squeeze' the rotor and create friction to slow the vehicle. Brake squealing and noises are commonly attributed to dusty, worn or broken brake linings and even high frequency vibrations caused by warped rotors. Brake systems should be checked regularly and worn parts replaced before ruining expensive calipers and rotors.

Q: How often should routine maintenance be performed?

A: To assure peak vehicle performance and longevity, auto manufacturers have developed a recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle. There are two types of maintenance services - minor service and major service. Minor services, like oil changes, tire rotations and fluid checks, are generally performed every 3,000 miles while major services, like fluid services, timing belt replacements, comprehensive inspections and tune-ups, are performed at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles. In addition to these services there are services that need to be performed more often, such as , alignments, cabin filters, fuel and air filters, etc.

These maintenance services are guidelines, intervals will vary depending on driving habits, climate and quality of parts used in repair. We can review the requirements for your vehicle based on your type of driving and help you set up a schedule to keep your vehicle running trouble-free,just give us a call.

Q: What should I do if my Check Engine light comes on?

A: The YELLOW Check Engine light or Service engine Soon light, are a warning indicators that there has been a fault in your vehicle’s onboard powertrain control system. Your vehicle’s onboard control system monitors vehicle performance and emissions, regulating and monitoring such variables as engine speed (RPM), fuel mixture, ignition timing and countless other parameters. All related to the emissions and engine controls aspect of your vehicle and not drivetrain or suspension.

This could mean something as simple a loose gas cap or something as complex as a module (computer) or driver fault. Ignoring the light is a mistake that may cause damage to other components which can increase the cost of the repair significantly. In most cases you do not need to pull over immediately, but contact Wallingford Tire & Auto as soon as possible to have your vehicle tested by one of our qualified technicians and repair the problem to keep your vehicle running safely, trouble free and economically.

(The RED Engine light indicates there may a problem that may cause serious engine damage, and you must pull over immediately, but safely, and turn your vehicle off.)

Maximize your vehicle gas mileage with these useful tips

• Maintain proper air pressure in your tires. Underinflation dramatically effects fuel economy and adds to increased wear and tear on your tires - costing you money.
• Regularly check and replace dirty air filters. A dirty, clogged air filter chokes off the air and forces the engine to work harder to deliver the requested performance.
• Give your vehicle a tune up. A well-tuned engine will deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and extend the usable life of the vehicle.
• Keep windows rolled up when traveling at highway speeds. Vehicle drag increases significantly at speeds above 65 miles per hour.
• Try to avoid excessive engine idling. When your car is sitting idle, it's getting zero miles per gallon. Only letting the vehicle warm up for a minute or two is sufficient to get the internal engine components adequately lubricated for driving.
• Observe the posted speed limits. A vehicles gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 miles per hour. Gas consumption can be better controlled by using cruise control on the highway to maintain a constant speed.
• Combine errands into a single trip. A warmed up engine uses less gas than a engine allowed to cool down completely. Take advantage of this by getting all your errands done when the engine is still hot. You can save gas and time.
• Avoid carrying or towing unneeded heavy items. Extra weight requires extra effort by the engine which decreases fuel economy and performance