The Importance of Spark Plugs: What You Need to Know Spark plugs are a small but a very important component in your vehicle’s engine. They ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the engine, which allows it to run smoothly. If your spark plugs are worn out, it can lead to poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency. Why Spark Plugs Matter: Fuel Efficiency - Well functioning spark plugs help your engine burn fuel efficiently, improving gas mileage. Engine Performance - Spark plugs make sure there is smooth acceleration and proper engine function. Emissions - Faulty spark plugs can increase harmful emissions, affecting both the environment and your car's performance. Signs You Need New Spark Plugs: Rough idling or engine misfires Decreased Fuel Efficiency Having a hard time starting your vehicle Poor Acceleration or sluggish performance When to Replace Spark Plugs: Spark plugs typically last between 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your car’s year, make and model. Check your owner’s manual for the recommendation times to replace your spark plugs. If you notice any of the signs above, it’s time to replace your spark plugs. At TRC Automotive Repair, we can help you make sure your spark plugs are in top condition for a smooth ride. Schedule an appointment today!
Road Trip Checklist Hitting the road for a road trip is one of life's great joys, but before you get on the road, it’s important to ensure your car is in top shape for the trip. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, a little pre-trip preparation can save you from unexpected issues and expensive repairs on the road. Here’s a checklist to make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready!
Your air filter is one of those small yet incredibly important parts that can have a big effect on your car’s overall health. Air Filters may not get the spotlight like your engine or brakes, but making sure it is clean is essential for keeping your car running well. Let’s talk about how often you should replace your air filter, and why it matters? What is an air filter and why is it an important part of your car? The air filter makes sure your engine gets clean air in it. It prevents dust, dirt, debris, and other particles from getting into your engine, where they can cause damage or cause issues with the performance of the engine. Getting clean air to the engine is important. Our technicians at TRC Automotive Repair can definitely take a look at your air filter for you. How often should you replace it? It depends on a few different things, like the make and model of the vehicle, how you drive and the environment you drive your vehicle in. Typically it is recommended to change the air filter every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or at least once a year. But it is better to look at your car’s owner manual for specific directions. Living in certain conditions may require you to change the air filter a little bit more often: Dusty or polluted environments: If you drive in areas with super dusty or polluted air, your air filter is going to get dirty quicker and will need to be changed out more often. City Driving: Shorter trips with a lot of stop-and-go traffic can cause your engine filter to become clogged quicker, because your engine is revving at a lower speed and is exposed to more debris. Extreme use of Air Conditioning or Heat: Using your A/C more often in polluted areas can cause the air filter to clog up quicker. Signs your Air Filter needs to be replaced: While car dealers recommend replacing the air filter at a certain mileage, there are also clear signs that it needs to be changed, such as: Reduced Engine Performance: If you notice a stall in your engine, especially whenever you are accelerating, it may be because your air filter is clogged and there is poor airflow getting to the engine. Poor Fuel Efficiency: When the air filter is dirty it will cause the engine to work harder to get the air it needs to work properly. That can cause higher fuel consumption. If suddenly you are filling up your gas tank more often, it may be time to change your air filter. Unusual Engine Sounds: If your engine is not getting the proper amount of air, it can start to sound rough or start to misfire. This is a sign of the engine not getting air due to a clogged air filter. Check Engine Light: Sometimes, a clogged air filter can cause your check engine light to turn on. It may be a list of different issues but you should always keep your Air Filter in mind. Visible dirt or damage – If the air filter looks dirty, damaged, or torn, it’s time for a replacement. Replacing your air filter regularly is an easy and cheap way to keep your car running well, save fuel, and prevent bigger engine problems later. Let our technicians take care of that for you at TRC Automotive Repair in Belmont, NC.
