Learn how to keep your car clean so that you can “See” in Winter !!
Learn how to keep your car clean so that you can “See” in Winter
Slush, ice, salt and melting snow! Winter driving is literally very difficult. The mornings in winters usually start with scraping the windshield and clearing up the snow, so that you are actually able to see enough to drive. But what about your car? There are many latest cars in which you actually have to “see” as well as all the ice and snow would get in your way.
By saying that latest cars can “see”, I actually mean that. As the numbers of modern cars are increasing, so are there specifications. Many of the cars have driver’s aids like lane departure warning systems, adaptive cruise control and even emergency brake. These main systems use cameras, sensors and many other combinations. During winters, these systems would be really very useful and would provide you with extra help, but just like your windshield, ice and snow can make these systems useless.
Most of you have experienced standing in cold weather outside and at that particular moment, all you need is the warmth of your car. But you should not think this way. You have paid good amount money for these systems and this is the time when you need them the most. At this point, your visibility is already compromised and the rest of the people on road are driving like an idiot and have no idea how to actually drive in snow or ice. Just spend some time to clear off the sensors so that your car can do its job properly.
- Windshield
- Side windows
- Back window
- Brake lights
- Tail lamps
There are some sensors which are not much sensitive and won’t be easily blocked by ice and snow. Some sensors are more tolerant but ice and snow can lower down their effectiveness, so you must get them clear as soon as possible.
There are many other systems like the lane departure or emergency brake assist, they are totally camera dependent and the cameras are just like our eyes. If there would be ice and snow around, then they won’t be able to see. These cameras are generally located on the upper part of the windshield and that’s why most of the people don’t bother to clear it.
If the roads are full of snow, then the lane departure system won’t work properly, but the brake system would still be very beneficial.
Some of the side cameras are usually located under the side mirrors. There are some cars which have a front camera as well. Don’t forget to clean them as well. Forward cameras are generally hidden in the car grille. If you wish to buy car grille and other auto parts, then you can look up at online stores like Napa Canada.
It is very important to clean your car sensors as first of all they won’t work and secondly they would go nuts.
- Go for a snow foam
If you are washing your car, then make it a point that no layer of solid grime is on it. If you scrub the debris, then it would lead to microscopic scratches, which can even cause rust and corrosion. So just soak off the grime with a snow form before using a regular shampoo. This would keep your car clean for a longer period of time.
- Use rubber floor mats
You can replace your fabric floor mats with rubber mats. The salty water can harm the carpet and stains on it. This is really very important on the driver’s side as it is most use. You can also use steel or alloy wheels in the winter season.
- Parking location
You can always try to park your car in a heated garage as this is one smart preventative measure. The vehicles which are parked outside have a disadvantage that they would be exposed to many elements. The salt has a corrosive nature.
- Washing frequently
During winters, it is a good idea to wash your car once in a week. The best time to wash your car is when the temperature is above 40 degrees. You must prefer washing it in day because it would dry easily as the temperature drops during winters. You must use fresh water while washing your car. You can even add baking soda in the water as it would dissolve the dried salt which is on the surface of the vehicle.
Whenever you are driving, just try to avoid deep snow and salty puddles of water. Driving on roads full of snow can be really very challenging and can damage your car body parts. If you want to change your old and damaged auto parts like side mirrors, headlights or car grille, then you must visit https://partsavatar.ca/. We will offer you the best aftermarket auto parts at economical prices.
Reference
Are you hearing a nasty screech? Visit Parts Avatar to buy perfect car brakes and change them on yourself !!
Are you hearing a nasty screech? Learn how to change your car’s brake all by yourself
Whenever you press the brake pedal in your car, do you hear the sound like monsters are playing the loudest music every time you need to slow down? Well, this is the time to change your car brakes.
Working of a car brake system
One of the most important components in your driving experience is a car’s braking system. This car part would protect you from smashing into the bus which is in front of you full of people. This is a basic hydraulic system which allows you to apply force at the pedal which would be translated into clamping force at the wheel.
How would you know that it is the correct time to change the Car Brakes?
Whenever a brake pad would wear down, it would often make a squeaking sound when applied. After hearing this, the driver knows that it is the time to change the brakes soon. Many new cars have evolved which have brake pad sensors already installed in their system. If your brake pads are low, then you will be able notice a change in your brake fluids level.
You can change your car brakes with regular hand tools in your garage. The first step is to acquire the following tools:-
- Ratchet
- Breaker bar
- Sockets
- Wrenches
- Jack stands
- Gloves
You must choose ceramic brake pads as they would provide you with the best brake feel and the longest protection against brake fade. But a little more dust would be accumulated on your wheel then conventional pads. Now if we talk about rotors, any cheap rotor would work. Choose the rotor which suits you best.
Loosen Lugs
If you want to buy the best front lug nuts, then engage your emergency brake and then turn the counter with the car on the ground. Don’t forget that you are just loosening it up and not removing it. Use a regular ratchet to take off the loose lugs. If you are working on the rear, then you must put the bricks behind the front wheels and apply parking brake so that you can remove the lug nuts easily. Once the wheel is off, then you can remove the parking brake.
Raise the Car
Put your hydraulic jack underneath the car’s frame. There are some cars which have black rubber pads that serve as the jacking points. Place the jack stand under the car, allow the car to rest on jack stands and make sure that its weight does not shift. Now you can remove the wheels. This is a great time for you to clean all your wheels which are covered with brake dust.
Loosen Caliper
There are some bolts on the caliper. Remove the bolts carefully and then the caliper would be able to slide out. Use a screwdriver to pry out the caliper. Allow the caliper to rest on the suspension and don’t put any strain on the brake.
Remove Caliper carrier
There are two bolts on the rear of the hub that keeps the caliper carrier on. They are tight, so you can always use a breaker bar.
Remove the Rotor
Whack the rotor with a hammer and then it would come out. There are some rotors which have a screw, which should be removed first and only then a rotor would come out. If the car is old, then it must be covered with rust, which can be an issue. So there is no need to beat it with a hammer as there may be threaded holes that you can force bolts through and then release the caliper.
Install new Rotor
Before you start installing a new rotor, take off the rust of the hub with the help of a wire brush. This would prevent corrosion in future. When you are installing a new rotor, you must use a lug nut and an open ended wrench to secure it. Tighten the rest of the components.
Assemble carrier
All the carrier bolts should be replaced and then should be tightened down.
Compress the caliper
Use a C-clamp and old brake pads, and then compress the caliper piston. To avoid risk, make sure to have the cap off the brake reservoir.
Install pads and caliper
The next step is to install the pads in the carrier and then use a little bit of anti squeal grease on the outside of the pad as this would ensure a smooth operation. Carefully install all the caliper bolts. Tighten all the bolts and check if anything is left.
Put on wheels
This is a major step and indeed an easy one. All you have to do is to just tighten the lugs with the help of a wrench or you can even use a breaker bar. Repeat this process for all the 4 wheels.
Break in Pads and Braking System
During the first few miles you may experience some sort noise. Don’t worry it is extremely normal. If you are on highway, then you can accelerate more and you can gradually slow down your speed and repeat this process a few times. After that just drive normally and listen if there are any odd noises. If everything is going well, then it means that you have replaced your brakes perfectly.
If you are willing to change your car brakes all by yourself and want to buy new ones, then all you have to do is to visit our online auto parts store - https://partsavatar.ca/. We care for our customers and that’s why we offer the best quality of products at affordable prices.
Reference
Have a dog? Want to travel with him? So learn how to keep your dog safe in the car
Have a dog? Want to travel with him? So learn how to keep your dog safe in the car
If you own a dog, then at some point or the other you will have to transport it in your car. If doesn’t matter if it is limited to once a year or if you take your dog everywhere with you, you must keep your dog safe. Whenever you are travelling in a car, you always put your seat belt and at the same time you make sure that your kids are strapped in and secured. But have you ever thought about your pet in a similar way? How can you keep your dog safe when you are driving and when you have to get in and out of your car? If you want to learn how to keep your dog safe and secured during the journey, then you must read on further.
The significance of controlling your dog when in car
Some dogs would seat quietly on the backseat during the entire journey, while some would leap about, move here and there, touching various car parts and this would cause a great distraction to the driver. This is one major thing which should be prevented. It is nice if your dog is well trained and behaves properly in car, but at the same time it is really very important to restrain them in case of a bump or an accident. If your dog is not restrained properly, then it can cause serious injuries during an accident. During a collision, your dog can be potentially thrown forward and it can get hurt by the walls and seats within the car, or can even be thrown through the windows. One more thing which you should note here is that if you come across a bump or some unharmed accident, even then your dog would be stressed and upset. It can even damage your vehicle and can cause injuries to the other. When you will open the car doors, then your dog may even potentially run away in fear.
Different ways in which you can keep your dog restrained
The first thing which should be considered to be safe is that your dog should be in the back seat of your car. The main reason behind this is that the dog would be safer there and the driver would not get distracted while driving. Never ever drive car while allowing your dog to sit on your lap and at the same time no other passenger should travel with the dog on their lap. The main reason behind this is that it can cause great distraction to the driver and the dog as well as the person carrying can get injured during an accident. There are many other ways with which you can restrain your dog in the car. Your final decision would be all based upon the size and shape of your car and the temperament of your dog. Choose whatever works the best for you.
Dog crates
If your pet is crate trained and would happily sit in a cage, then this is one of the best option for restraining your dog in the car. There should be enough space for the dog in the crate. Your crate should be big enough to house your pet comfortably and one which allows them to sit up and stretch. But one thing should be kept in mind is that it should not be so large that the dog would be thrown around in case of an accident.
Dog guards
You can fit the dog guards in the boot area of your car and between the back of the seats. This would provide a restricted area to your dog. It works in a similar manner like creates, but it provides slightly less protection as this would not provide protection to your dog against side or rear windows.
Dog harnesses and booster seats
Dog harness is very effective as people wear them around the neck and chest of their dog. It is then fastened to the car’s existing seat belt fittings. If you have a small dog, then you can even buy a special doggy booster seat and it would provide a comfortable seating position and at the same time safe attachment. There are various kinds of dog harnesses available in different shapes and sizes to fit all dogs and would fit them comfortably. The harness would do its job correctly whenever it’s needed. The harness should be fully padded to provide a cushion to protect the dog in the event of an accident. Your dog should wear the harness happily as this is the safest choice of restraint.
If any of your car parts gets damaged in an accident and you want to replace it with a brand new one, then don’t worry as https://partsavatar.ca/ is here at your service. We would provide you with all types of aftermarket auto parts under one roof which would save your time and money. Happy Driving!
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Misaligned wheels? Steering Drifting? Know the Symptoms of Damaged or Worn out Ball Joints @PartsAvatar Canada
Know
the symptoms of worn out ball joints as you may start steering to the right or
left unintentionally.
The ball joints are the
important suspension system component that are spherical bearing in a socket
whose main function is to connect the control arm of the vehicle to the
steering knuckles.
In this article we will
read about the symptoms of worn out front ball joints as they are responsible
for the front wheels and suspension to move back and forth while driving. When
a ball joint fails, the driver eventually loses control of the vehicle. So it
is very important to notice damaging symptoms of a ball joint.
By ignoring this, you
not only damage the suspension but also the other components of vehicle like
axle shafts and brakes of car.
Before moving further, let us read about ball joints and its types.
Ball
joints and its types
Ball joints basically
connect the control arm with the steering knuckle and works as a pivot between
suspension and wheels. On most vehicles, in the front suspension, there are car's upper and lower ball joints
on both sides. On the other hand the car strut
equipped vehicles have only two lower joints in the front suspensions.
Some front wheel drive
cars with independent rear suspension use rear ball joints.
LOADED JOINTS
A loaded joint carries
or supports the weight of vehicle and a follower joint that positions control
arm assembly or strut. These are designed to support the weight of the vehicle
while providing hinge point for the steering system. They decrease the wear
rate by centering themselves in their own sockets.
FOLLOWER JOINTS These carry no weight. The
follower ball joint is used in a strut suspension to connect lower control arm of car,
steering knuckle and strut. These are designed to maintain precise dimensional tolerance
in a car's steering and suspension system parts.
A change can be noticed in camber, caster or toe angle due to wearing.
Symptoms of Worn out Ball Joints
By turning and driving
on rough or bad roads, a constant friction is created between ball stud and
bearing which causes the ball joints to wear prematurely. Lack of lubrication
and corrosion of joints can also increase the rate of wear. Let us read some
other symptoms of a worn out ball joint.
Excessive vibration
from the front of the vehicle
Excessive vibrations
from vehicle’s suspension are also one of the common symptoms of worn out ball
joints. The vibration may be felt from right of left side of the vehicle or
sometimes even the steering wheel can give the feeling of vibration. The cause
of vibration is loosened ball joints in the sockets and they vibrate heavily
when the vehicle is in motion.
Abnormal Drifting of
steering
If the steering is not
getting back to the centre, then there may be issue with the ball joints. When
the ball joints are in good condition and wheels are in proper alignment the
steering wheel should also stay straight. Damaged ball joints will cause the
steering wheel to wander from right to left and it will eventually lead to
damage or accident.
Tire wear
Uneven tire wear is
also a symptom of worn out ball joint. Worn ball joints may cause the outer or
inner edges of the front tires to wear faster than the tire tread. Worn ball
joints also create cupping on the inner edge of the tire tread of car;s tire. Sometimes under
inflated tire can also cause the side edges to wear at faster rate than the
middle, so for this you may need to take a professional advice.
Noises
One of the most common symptoms
is clunking noises coming from vehicle’s front suspension. Sometimes it is like
a banging sound coming from the corner of the vehicle. You can hear these
noises when the vehicle is going on a speed bump, rough road and potholes or
around the corner. As the ball joints become loose in the socket they start to
knock as the suspension travels up and down. Ignoring the noise may just add to
the damage as by the time the sound will become louder and eventually the ball
joint will fail and break.
So if we make a check
list of factors that contribute in damaging ball joints is:
·
Improper service damaging the boot
·
Out of round tires
·
Lack of lubrication to the joints
·
Over greasing that causes boot failure
·
Severe potholes and rough roads
Ball
joint Maintenance
Do not ignore the
warning signs of worn out ball joints as they may break eventually. Ball joints
may last 70000 to 150000 miles. Road conditions, driving, exposure to
contaminants are the factors that affect lifespan of a ball joint.
It is advised to replace all the ball joints
while replacing a worn out ball joint as it will be economically convenient and
also better for suspension performance.
For replacing a ball
joint, you can jack up your car from the side where the replacement is needed.
Now grasp the top and
bottom of the tire. By rocking it in and out, you can configure which ball
joint is bad.
Pry apart the lower
control arm and wheel hub with the help of a pry bar. Moving grease fitting
indicates bad ball joint or grease fitting. You can detect if it is the ball
joint or grease fitting that has gone bad by moving the ball with the fitting.
If the fitting is dry and can move, there may be only issue with grease
fitting.
If the ball joint is
attached to the arm, then the whole car's control arm
assembly should be replaced if the joint has worn out. You can take mechanic’s
help if you cannot separate ball joints.
The replacement cost varies from vehicle to vehicle. They depend on year, make, model and even number of ball joints your vehicle is using. so, aftermarket parts can be taken into consideration if you want to shop for them. Partsavatar is one of the best aftermarket parts dealers that offer auto parts under your budget. take a look.
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Partsavatar.ca - Get All 2015 Acura TLX Parts
Find Best 2015 Acura TLX Parts Online at Parts Avatar Canada Acura likes to tout tech as the selling point of its mod...
