Iridium Spark Plug

Iridium spark plugs provide the best spark and last the longest. The iridium center electrode maintains a sharp edge for the spark to leap from.

Brake Pads and Rotors

Cheap brake pads and rotors can cost you plenty. They wear out fast, make noise, and actually increase stopping distance. Buy brake parts that carry the D3EA or BEEP certification labels.

Brakes – Exploded Diagram

Here's how it all goes together. Rotor sits on hub. Pads sit in bracket. Caliper squeezes pads against rotor to stop vehicle.

There IS a Difference Between an Economy and a Premium Rotor

You bet. Here's an economy rotor on a scale. It weights 14.2-lbs. Now take a look at the next slide. It's a premium rotor for the same vehicle. See how much it weighs.

See the difference?

The premium rotor weighs 16.8-lbs., or 2.6 more pounds. That's an 18% difference. Both rotors are for the same vehicle. The D3EA and BEEP certified rotors perform better and last longer.

Replace water pump with timing belt

If your water pump is powered by the timing belt, replace it at the same time. The labor is almost free. Later it will cost you hundreds.

Worn Plugs

For best gas mileage and engine performance, replace spark plugs at 80% of the manufacturer's recommended mileage.

Over inflated tire

Over inflation causes excessive tread wear on the center tread and premature wear on struts, springs, and ball joints

Timing Belt

The timing belt has a limited life. Exceed the recommended mileage and you'll be stranded (at the very least), or destroy your engine.

Collector Cars

Ya think these babies need some TLC?

Overhead Cam

Overhead cam engines eliminate push rods and rocker arms. They transfer power directly from the camshaft to the hydraulic lifter above the valve.

Catalytic Converter

Why do thieves steal catalytic converters? Because they contain expensive precious metals like Platinum Palladium, Rhodium Cerium, Manganese and Nickel

The camshaft and lifters open and close the valves

The camshaft lobes move the lifters up and down. The lifters move the push rods. The push rods move the rocker arms, and the rocker arms open and close the valves.

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How to find a reliable mechanic

Blog readers and friends constantly ask me how to find a reputable mechanic. I can tell you one way NOT to find a mechanic. Don't fall for those FREE CHECKUP coupons or $10 oil changes. Get real. Do you really think they can afford to give that kind of labor away? Here are 2 ways to find a good mechanic: 1) Join Angie's list. Word of mouth is the best source and Angie's List does a great job policing... [Read more]