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Why Does My Car A/C Smell Bad | General Automotive Servicenter
21 Mar, 2024
Discover the reasons behind unpleasant odors from your car's A/C system and learn effective solutions to keep your cabin fresh and clean.
Learn about some of the best maintenance practices with General Automotive Servicenter, and keep you
28 Feb, 2024
Mazda Specific Maintenance Tips You Must Know
Why Are 4x4 and AWD Vehicles Maintained Differently | General Automotive Servicenter
31 Jan, 2024
Off-road and 4x4 vehicles require specific care to function properly. Take a look at the reasons behind this, along with General Automotive Servicenter!
What Is Tire Rotation & When To Get Them | General Automotive Servicenter
16 Dec, 2023
Dive deep into when and why you should consider tire rotation along with General Automotive Servicenter!
Must-Know Signs You Need a Transmission Fluid Flush | General Automotive Servicenter
29 Nov, 2023
General Automotive Servicenter unveils the subtle yet crucial indicators that your transmission needs attention from burnt odors to fluid discoloration.
What Components & Systems Should Be Lubricated and How Often? | General Automotive Servicenter
28 Oct, 2023
Keep your car's heart beating with General Automotive Servicenter's expert guide on what automotive components need lubrication and how often.
Bad Car Habits | General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD
30 Sep, 2023
Car Habits That You Should Ditch You're behind the wheel on the roads, cruising down the open road of of Gaithersburg , and everything seems just fine. But what if I told you that some everyday habits might be slowly chipping away at your vehicle's health? As a responsible driver, it's essential to recognize these bad car habits and break free from them. Here are some of the most common culprits and how to kick them to the curb. 1. Ignoring Warning Lights It's easy to dismiss that little warning light on your dashboard, thinking, "I'll deal with it later." However, those lights are your car's way of saying, "Hey, there's a problem!" Ignoring them can lead to more significant issues and costly repairs down the road. Break this habit by addressing warning lights promptly and having your car checked by a professional. 2. Skipping Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance might seem like a chore, but it's your vehicle's lifeline. Skipping oil changes, neglecting tire rotations, or forgetting about scheduled check-ups can result in decreased performance and even engine damage. Embrace the habit of adhering to your car's maintenance schedule. It's an investment in your vehicle's longevity. 3. Riding the Brakes Do you tend to keep your foot on the brake pedal even when you don't need to? This bad habit not only wears down your brake pads prematurely but also reduces fuel efficiency. Practice coasting and using engine braking when appropriate to save your brakes and your wallet. 4. Overloading Your Vehicle Stuffing your car to the brim with cargo or passengers might be convenient, but it can strain your suspension and decrease your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Be mindful of your car's weight limits and distribute weight evenly to avoid unnecessary wear and tear. 5. Revving the Engine on a Cold Start Starting your car and immediately revving the engine might be satisfying, but it's harsh on your vehicle, especially when it's cold. Modern engines are designed to warm up efficiently without excessive revving. Instead, start your car and let it idle for a moment to allow the oil to circulate. 6. Resting Your Hand on the Gear Shift Resting your hand on the gear shift lever while driving can lead to premature wear on the transmission's bushings and synchronizers. Get into the habit of keeping both hands on the steering wheel, where they belong. 7. Running on Empty Driving your car until the fuel gauge hovers near "E" isn't just a bad habit; it's potentially harmful to your vehicle. Running low on fuel can cause your fuel pump to overheat, leading to costly repairs. Make it a practice to refuel when your tank is around one-quarter full. Breaking free from these bad car habits might take a little effort, but the benefits are worth it. You'll enjoy a smoother, more efficient, and longer-lasting ride while saving money on repairs. So, kick these habits to the curb and embrace a healthier, happier journey on the road. Don't forget to turn to the local auto repair experts at General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD for all your automotive needs!
Car in Fall or Autumn | General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD
31 Aug, 2023
8 Maintenance Tips to Transition Your car from Summer to Fall Just as you prepare your wardrobe for the changing weather, your car deserves some special attention to navigate the challenges that fall may bring. Here are some crucial tips to ensure your vehicle smoothly transitions from summer to autumn: Tire Transition : With rain and potentially colder mornings, traction becomes paramount. We advise you to check for proper tread depth and inflation . Fluid Check: As temperatures dip, your car's fluids may require adjustments. Please make sure your antifreeze mixture is appropriate for colder weather and that your oil is at the recommended level and viscosity. Braking Confidence : Wet leaves and slippery roads call for well-functioning brakes. We recommend having your brake system inspected, including the brake pads and rotors , to ensure your vehicle can stop safely. Battery Evaluation: The temperature changes can strain your car's battery. We suggest testing the battery's performance and checking the terminals to ensure they are clean. If it's nearing the end of its life, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Heater and Defroster Check : Fall brings chilly mornings and foggy windows. Make sure your heater and defroster are in good working condition to keep you warm and maintain clear visibility. Lights and Visibility: With shorter days and longer nights, ensuring your lights are functioning properly is crucial for both your safety and the safety of others. Clean and adjust your headlights, taillights, and signal lights. Wiper Upgrade: Leaves and rain can obstruct your view. Therefore, you should change worn wiper blades and top up your windshield washer fluid to ensure clear visibility during inclement weather. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Cooler temperatures can make rubber components more susceptible to wear and tear. As a result, please have your belts and hoses inspected for any signs of cracking or damage. Consider taking your car to General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD, for a full fall maintenance check-up. Our professional mechanics can identify potential issues and ensure your vehicle is ready for the changing season. From maintaining proper tire traction to ensuring your battery is up to the task, these steps will help you embrace the autumn drive with confidence and comfort
30 Jul, 2023
Everything You Need to Know About A/C Refrigerants Today, we will dive into the world of car A/C refrigerants - those elusive substances that keep us cool and comfortable during hot summers. You may have heard of different types of refrigerants, but do you know the differences between them? Let's get into it! R-12, R-134a, and the Evolution of Coolants In the past, a refrigerant called R-12, also known as Freon ruled the automotive A/C kingdom. However, due to its harmful impact on the ozone layer, it was phased out and replaced by R-134a. R-134a, while significantly less damaging to the environment, is still a greenhouse gas and has its limitations. The Rise of Environmentally Friendly Refrigerants As environmental concerns intensified, manufacturers sought even better alternatives. The latest generation of car A/C refrigerants includes HFO-1234yf. This refrigerant boasts ultra-low global warming potential, making it far more environmentally friendly than its predecessors. HFO-1234yf is quickly becoming the go-to choice for newer vehicles, complying with stricter environmental regulations. Understanding the Key Differences Environmental Impact: R-12 (Freon): High ozone-depleting potential and greenhouse gas emissions. R-134a: Lower ozone-depleting potential, but still a greenhouse gas. HFO-1234yf: Negligible impact on the ozone layer and a significantly lower global warming potential. Performance: R-12 (Freon): Known for its exceptional cooling capacity, but no longer used in newer vehicles due to environmental concerns. R-134a: Provides adequate cooling, but its performance is not as efficient as R-12. HFO-1234yf: Balances environmental responsibility with effective cooling, ensuring your car remains comfortably cool on hot days. Retrofitting If you own an older vehicle that originally used R-12, you might be tempted to retrofit it with R-134a or HFO-1234yf. While retrofitting is possible, it's essential to consult a professional to ensure compatibility and safety. The Importance of Proper Maintenance Regardless of the refrigerant your car uses, regular A/C maintenance is crucial. An inadequately maintained A/C system can lead to refrigerant leaks, decreased cooling performance, and potential damage to other A/C components. Visit General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg for A/C Expertise If you're unsure about your car's A/C refrigerant type or experiencing cooling issues, bring your vehicle to General Automotive Servicenter. Our skilled technicians can inspect, diagnose, and service your A/C system, ensuring you stay cool throughout your journeys while minimizing environmental impact.
30 Jun, 2023
How to Check Your Tire Pressure and Why It Matters Understanding how and when to check your tire pressure is crucial, as underinflated tires may wear out prematurely. Checking the tire's pressure is important to prevent accidents, avoid uneven tire wear, and improve fuel economy. You will need a tire pressure gauge to check the recommended tire pressure. Checking the pressure when the tires are cold is recommended since hot tires might change the pressure. Thus, checking the pressure first thing in the morning or after three hours is advisable if you have already driven the car for the tires to cool down. Here are the steps for checking your tire pressure. Remove the cap covering the tire's air valve and keep it where you won't lose it. Firmly press the tire gauge against the exposed valve stem for a few seconds. Hearing an air hiss is normal. Check the air pressure gauge. When using a digital gauge, the readings will be displayed on a screen, and when using a manual gauge, the pressure is shown by a bar or a dial that shows how far it has been pushed out. Compare the value to the tire pressure that is recommended. Change the air valve cap on the tire. (Delay on this step if the air pressure needs to be adjusted.) Repeat the steps for every tire. It is crucial to check the tire pressure using the same gauge at least once a month. You should also check the pressure after driving on rough terrain or running over a sharp object. Tires are, generally, the most crucial parts of your vehicle. They are actually where the road and the rubber meet. Regular checkups and tire maintenance are necessary for your vehicle to operate safely and reliably. If you need help bringing your tires back to the proper pressure, we call on you to bring your car to General Automotive Servicenter in Gaithersburg, MD today!
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