Posted on 4/25/2012
Many Florissant drivers have been hearing about technological advances in power steering, specifically electric power steering. Some very high-end cars have been featuring electric power steering. Power steering fluid has the necessary hydraulic properties and the ability to lubricate the internal parts. The power steering fluid also protects vehicle components from rust and corrosion.Florissant car owners should be aware that vehicle manufacturers recommend that the fluid be replaced on schedule. At garysautorepair, the old fluid is drained and the system cleaned thoroughly. Fresh fluid is then installed.Unfortunately, many Florissant drivers don't realize how important it is to service their power steering, and some may not even know that it's necessary in the first place. A neglected power steering system can develop leaks that will shorten the life of the pump.Florissant drivers should be ... read more
Posted on 4/17/2012
Everyone in Florissant, Missouri, knows we are advised to go to our Florissant dentist twice a year. Oral-conscious Florissant residents have a teeth-cleaning and examination. Once a year, we get x-rays to look for problems that can't be seen with the naked eye. When our dentist is done, he/she tells us what was found – "Everything's fine, see you in six months." Or "You've got a small cavity starting, let's schedule an appointment to take care of it." By the time you leave, you have a plan for addressing any necessary issues.This system works so much better than waiting for a painful problem before going into the dentist. Small problems are fixed before they turn into big problems. And you avoid those huge bills.If Florissant folks understand the wisdom of using this system for handling dental care, why do many resist when facing the same system for our vehicle maintenance? Following the vehicle manufacturer's recommended intervals can be confusi ... read more
Posted on 4/13/2012
If you've ever heard a squealing sound under your vehicle hood, chances are it was your serpentine belt. More importantly, the belt powers the alternator. The alternator creates electricity that's used by your vehicle's electrical systems and also charges the battery. Without the alternator, the battery will go dead after a short distance.The serpentine belt may also run the pumps for both the power steering (some are electric) and power brakes (some use vacuum boost).And, on most vehicles, the serpentine belt powers the water pump. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine to keep it within optimal operating temperatures. On some Florissant vehicles, the water pump is powered by the timing belt instead of the serpentine belt.When they understand what it does, Florissant drivers realize that if it breaks, it affects a lot of systems. That's why vehicle manufacturers outline recommended replacement guidelines in the owner’s manuals. If th ... read more
Posted on 4/6/2012
Most Florissant drivers don't even think about their air conditioner. Now here's a tip for Florissant vehicle owners: Run your air conditioner every so often during Missouri winters. This circulates the lubricant to help keep the seals from drying out. The air conditioner actually removes some of the moisture in the air. So if you have trouble with fogging on your vehicle windshield during Missouri winters or during a rain storm, running the A/C on the defrost setting should help. Now on some Florissant cars you can't run the A/C at the same time as the defroster. Don't ask me why, but I suspect lawyers were involved.Also, air and water can get into the A/C system. That can reduce the efficiency of the system and also lead to corrosion that causes damage. Florissant drivers should periodically purge the system and replace the refrigerant to remove the air and water.Missouri drivers wo ... read more