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Steer Clear of Trouble: How Often Do You Need Power Steering Fluid Maintenance

Steer Clear of Trouble: How Often Do You Need Power Steering Fluid Maintenance

Imagine effortlessly turning your car's steering wheel, gliding through traffic, and navigating sharp corners with ease. Behind this smooth operation is a vital component often overlooked – power steering fluid. If you want to understand its significance and determine when it's time for a change to keep your steering system in top shape, keep reading. The Role of Power Steering Fluid Power steering fluid is the lifeblood of your vehicle's power steering system. This hydraulic fluid transmits force from the steering wheel to the steering mechanism, making it easier to turn the wheels. It also lubricates and cools the system's components, reducing wear and tear. How Often Should You Change Power Steering Fluid? Unlike some routine maintenance tasks, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should change power steering fluid. It depends on various factors: Vehicle Manufacturer's Recommendations: Start by checking your ... read more

How Does My Car's A/C Work

How Does My Car's A/C Work

As the sun blazes overhead, your car's air conditioning becomes an oasis of cool comfort. But what happens when that refreshing breeze stops out of the blue? Air conditioning can transform scorching days into pleasant drives. However, like all wonders of technology, it sometimes needs extra care from time to time. Read on to learn more about what we're referring to. What Are Some of the Parts That Make Up the A/C System? Refrigerant: The heart of your car's air conditioning system is the refrigerant, often called coolant. This chemical compound absorbs heat from the cabin, leaving behind cool air. If your A/C isn't blowing cold air, it might be low on refrigerant or leak. Compressor: The A/C compressor is the system's engine responsible for circulating the refrigerant. A faulty compressor can lead to a lack of cool air. Signs of trouble include strange noises or hot air blowing from the vents. Evaporator and Condenser: The evaporator and condenser are essential ... read more

How to Repair Rust Damage on Your Car

How to Repair Rust Damage on Your Car

Owning a car comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one of them is addressing rust damage. Rust is the nemesis of any vehicle, slowly eating away at its metal structure and diminishing its value. Luckily, there are ways in which you can prevent and also repair rust damage on your car. In this blog, we will walk you through repairing rust on your vehicle to restore its appearance. The first step is to identify the rusted areas on your vehicle. Inspect the body panels, wheel wells, undercarriage, and areas where moisture tends to accumulate. Surface rust can often be treated with a do-it-yourself approach, but extensive rust damage may require professional assistance from an auto repair shop. Before diving into the repair process, gather the necessary tools and materials. These may include rust converter or remover, sandpaper, body filler, primer, paint, and clear coat. It's crucial to wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to ensure personal safety during t ... read more

Understanding Catalytic Converters: When to Replace and Why Choose Sacramento Specialty Automotive

Understanding Catalytic Converters: When to Replace and Why Choose Sacramento Specialty Automotive

Understanding Catalytic Converters: When to Replace and Why Choose Sacramento Specialty Automotive As environmentally conscious citizens and responsible vehicle owners, it's essential to keep our exhaust emissions in check. The catalytic converter plays a pivotal role in reducing harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere. However, like any automotive component, catalytic converters can wear out over time, necessitating replacement. In this blog, we'll explore when it's time to replace your catalytic converter and why Sacramento Specialty Automotive is the perfect choice for this crucial service. When to Replace Your Catalytic Converter Check Engine Light (CEL) Illumination: One of the most common signs that your catalytic converter may need replacement is when the check engine light (CEL) on your dashboard illuminates and stays on. Modern vehicles are equipped with onboard diagnostics (OBD-II), which monitors the performance of various systems, including the emissi ... read more

When should you replace your brake pads?

When should you replace your brake pads?

  The replacement of brake pads depends on several factors such as your driving habits, the type of vehicle you have, and the condition of the brake pads themselves. As a general guideline, brake pads typically need to be replaced when they have worn down to a thickness of around 3 millimeters (or 1/8 inch). However, it's important to note that this can vary, so it's recommended to consult your vehicle's manufacturer guidelines or consult with a qualified mechanic for a more accurate assessment. In addition to thickness, there are some signs that may indicate the need for brake pad replacement: Squealing or squeaking noises: Brake pads often have wear indicators that produce a high-pitched sound when the pads are nearing the end of their life.   Reduced braking performance: If you notice that your braking distance has increased or you need to press the brake pedal harder to achieve the same level of braking power, it may be a sign that your brake pads are wor ... read more