Clifton Park Auto Repair

If you're experiencing any of the five signs listed below, it's time to head to our auto shop for a wheel alignment. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road. Steering Wheel Not Returning to Center Position There could be a problem if the steering wheel isn't returning to the center position after you turn. This can be especially noticeable when you're driving on a straight road and let go of the steering wheel for even just a second. If it doesn't quickly return to the center or seems to be "stuck" in one position, it's time to get your car aligned. Tires Wearing Down Quickly You need a wheel alignment is if your tires are wearing down quickly. This can be due to several factors, but if you notice that your tires seem to be balding or developing unusual wear patterns, it's likely time for a realignment. Car Pulling to One Side If your car starts pulling to one side when you're driving, it coul ... read more

With the various fluids constantly flowing throughout your vehicle, you should always be on the lookout for leaks. While leaks aren't as common in newer vehicles as they are in older cars, they are still possible. Once a fluid leaks, it can not only cause trouble within its designated system, but it can flow and mix with other liquids as well. The big question we will dive into today is: what happens if coolant mixes with motor oil?   If there is engine oil in your coolant or vice versa, it typically means there is damage to one or more of your engine's gaskets or seals. Your motor is designed to work closely but separately from the cooling system. The head gasket is the piece of your engine that prevents coolant or oil from meeting each other. And oil and coolant mix due to a damaged head gasket, which usually happens when your engine overheats.   As you can probably guess, having your coolant and oil combined is terrible for the health of your vehicle. Your car ... read more

Once we get tires for our cars, many of us put them off to the side until something goes wrong. That is never how you should treat your vehicle's tires. It's important for you to check your tires regularly to make sure they are properly inflated so that they can last you a long time. Another thing you should periodically check is tire tread. Driving on bald or almost bald tires is extremely dangerous. If you're forced to brake abruptly, your car may not stop in time and cause an accident.   There are many different factors to consider when it comes to retiring your tires.  Cracks, bulges, or any other damage in the sidewalls Vibrations when driving Uneven tread wear (often consequences of under-or-over inflation, misaligned wheels, or suspension issues)  Less than 2/32 inch left on the tread or bare tires An effective way to measure tread is by using a quarter or penny. All you have to do is place the coin with the head upside down between the treads. I ... read more

Now that it's December, you can expect to see cold and harsh weather on the way to Clifton Park, NY. The last thing you need is to deal with this time of year is a dead battery or a flat tire. While it's hard to predict the future, it's best to prepare for those occasions. Next thing you know, your phone battery is dead, making it more challenging to call for assistance. This instance is why drivers need to keep an emergency kit stowed in their trunks for the unexpected. Below are several recommendations on the best items to include in your vehicle's emergency kit: First Aid Kit A first aid kit typically includes minor injury necessities (Band-Aids, gauze, gloves, tweezers, medication, etc.). These items can come in handy in many different types of situations. You'll also have supplies available if you or one of your passengers sustained a minor injury.  Escape Tool An escape tool usually has a metal piece that can break your car window and a cutter to cut ... read more

Your car is a costly investment, and you should do your best to take care of it. Proper care doesn't just mean regular services, but it also means being extra cautious when you drive. We all have our fair share of driving habits that we may be afraid to admit. While they may come naturally to you, what happens when there's a terrible outcome. Certain practices can not only hurt you, but they can seriously damage your vehicle. Here are three horrible driving habits that you need to break! Running Into Potholes Potholes can be sneaky in disguise, especially when they're covered in rainwater or snow. You might not realize it, but they are a major problem. They're constantly found everywhere, no matter where you live. When hitting a pothole straight-on, it can actually annihilate your suspension parts, steering system parts and cause your wheel alignment to shift. To prevent all these things from happening, you need to stay extra attentive to the road to spot them early o ... read more