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AVOID TIRE BLOWOUTS: WHAT TO LOOK FOR

May 15, 2024

A few quick tricks on what to look, listen and feel for can help keep your  tires  alive longer. Knowing what to look for can prevent any major blow-outs leaving you stranded on the side of the road.

Keep the Pressure Up

Inflate inflate inflate! Always keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer recommended PSI printed on a sticker in the door jam of the driver’s side door. The PSI stamped into your tire’s sidewall is the maximum pressure the tire can withstand. Under-inflation is the most common cause of a blowout. Keeping your tires at the proper pressure will also help you get the best gas mileage possible. Win for your car, and your wallet!  

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Most vehicles made after 2007 have a pressure monitoring system that will warn you if any of the tires go lower than the specified amount. One problem however, is that it may not warn you if you’re just slightly under-inflated, and even that small amount can do damage over time. It’s a good idea to manually check the tires once a month.

Normal vs Abnormal Wear

Over time  tires’ tread is worn down . Rotating them ensures all 4 wear evenly since the front two will wear down much faster than on the rear. But there are many factors that effect tread wear. Tread wear patterns give important warning signs about a larger problem. Over inflation will show more wear in the middle, under-inflation on the edges, and alignment problems show up in several ways as illustrated. So as you’re checking the pressure, run a hand over the tread to feel for anything out of the ordinary.  

Age Matters

The tread thickness is one way to gage a tires condition, but many don’t know that the age is just as important. Rubber is subject to weather and road conditions, and tires are no exception. Tires are considered to be unsafe after 6 years. See the image below to interpret your tires’ age. 

Tire blowouts image

Trick to Gauge Depth

Check your tire’s tread depth by inserting an upside down penny between the treads. If you can see any room above President Lincoln’s head, the tire should be replaced.  Happy driving during this summer road trip season, and as always feel free to call us for all your tire sales and repair needs!

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By Kobi Meyer January 1, 2025
Misunderstanding brake maintenance can put your safety at risk and lead to costly repairs. Myth-busting brake misconceptions can save your vehicle, your wallet, and even your life. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we believe in empowering Albany, CA, drivers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their brake system. In this blog, we’ll address five common myths about brake maintenance, giving you the tools to keep your vehicle safe on the road. 1. Myth: Brakes Always Squeak When They’re Bad It’s a common belief that squeaky brakes mean trouble. While squeaking can indicate worn brake pads, it’s not always a reliable sign. Sometimes, bad brakes are completely silent. Issues like warped rotors or malfunctioning calipers can cause brake failure without any audible warning. What to do: Regular inspections are essential to catching these silent problems. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to ensure your braking system is in peak condition. 2. Myth: If My Car Stops Fine, My Brakes Must Be Okay Braking performance can decline gradually, making it difficult to notice an issue until it’s too late. Problems like uneven brake pad wear or air in the brake lines can reduce your stopping power even if your car feels normal. Our advice: Don’t wait until you feel something is wrong. Schedule brake checks during routine maintenance to catch hidden issues early. 3. Myth: Brake Fluid Never Needs to Be Replaced Many people assume brake fluid lasts forever. The truth is, brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lead to corrosion in your braking system and reduced braking efficiency. Pro tip: Experts recommend replacing brake fluid every 2-3 years or as specified in your vehicle’s manual. Our team at Dana Meyer Auto Care can test your fluid and advise you on the best maintenance schedule. 4. Myth: Replacing Brake Pads Is the Only Maintenance You Need Brake pads are crucial, but they’re only one part of a complex system. Rotors, calipers, and even brake lines require attention to ensure the entire system works properly. What we do: At Dana Meyer Auto Care, our ASE-certified technicians conduct a comprehensive brake inspection, checking all components to ensure nothing is overlooked. 5. Myth: Newer Cars Don’t Need Brake Maintenance It’s easy to believe that advanced technology in newer vehicles means fewer maintenance needs. However, even cars with cutting-edge safety features like ABS (anti-lock braking system) still require regular brake care. Why it matters: Neglecting maintenance can compromise these safety systems, reducing their effectiveness. Trust our experienced team in Albany, CA, to keep your vehicle’s modern braking technology in top shape. Why Choose Dana Meyer Auto Care for Brake Repairs? At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction. Since 1975, we’ve provided reliable brake repair services to the Albany community and beyond. With ASE-certified technicians and a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on all repairs, you can trust us to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today! Don’t let brake myths put your safety at risk. Whether you’re in Berkeley, El Cerrito, or Richmond, Dana Meyer Auto Care is your trusted partner for expert brake maintenance. Visit our shop in Albany, CA, or schedule your appointment online. Let us help you drive with confidence.
By Kobi Meyer December 6, 2024
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