5 Symptoms of a Bent Connecting Rod in Your Engine

bent rod symptoms

A failed connecting rod is one of the most catastrophic forms of engine failure. This failure is commonly referred to as a “thrown rod” or “throwing a rod”. When a connecting rod fails, there is a very good chance the piston or connecting rod could smash right through the engine block at very high speed, … Read more

4 Symptoms of a Valve Cover Gasket Leak (and Replacement Cost)

what is a valve cover gasket

As vehicles age, individual components within an engine wear down a little bit every time it’s being driven. When fluid is routed through hoses and lines, various types of gaskets are responsible for keeping things leak free. Unfortunately, these gaskets deteriorate and can eventually fail. One of the more common reasons for an engine oil … Read more

9 Best Auto Glass Cleaners (That Actually Work)

best auto glass cleaner

Keeping the windows of your vehicle clean can help you to manage challenging sun glare, reduce defrost times, stop squeaky wipers, and eliminate impairments to your vision. A good auto glass cleaner can make a huge difference when it comes to safety and an enjoyable drive. While cleaning the exterior of your car windows is … Read more

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire? (and How Fast Can You Go?)

how long can you drive on a spare tire

With enough years behind the wheel, one is almost guaranteed to eventually experience a flat tire. The occurrence of a flat is almost always accompanied by aggravation, as travels are delayed, and additional effort is expended to install the affected vehicle’s spare tire. However, a flat tire often leaves motorists with another quandary of sorts. … Read more

6 Causes of Engine Ticking (When Accelerating or Idling)

strange noise

Little can be as concerning as the sudden onset of a strange sound from beneath your vehicle’s hood. No matter the type of sound, one’s thoughts automatically begin to turn toward impending engine failure and the excessive expenditure that might result from such an issue. Few such noises are as common as a ticking or … Read more

9 Best Car Diagnostic Scanners for Home Mechanics (and Professionals)

best car diagnostic scanner

Today’s vehicles are heavily reliant upon data transmission to facilitate proper operation. Data is relayed between numerous engine related sensors, and an engine’s operating computer, known as the ECM (engine control module). This integrated communications system is known as a vehicle’s on-board diagnostics network. In the present, properly diagnosing driveability and functionality related vehicle issues … Read more

5 Symptoms of a Bad Ignition Switch (and Replacement Cost)

bad ignition switch symptoms

Every day, we rely upon our vehicle to start when commanded to do so, as we insert our keys into the ignition, and turn the ignition switch. Unfortunately, like any other automotive component, ignition switches do wear out on occasion. When this occurs, the severity of that which is experienced differs from case to case. … Read more

9 Best Dual Screen Portable DVD Players for Your Car

best dual DVD player for car

There are all sorts of electronic devices being installed in cars these days. Ten years ago, many of these electronic devices would have been considered luxuries. You would only find them in high-end luxury sedans or SUVs. These days, people of all social classes have a variety of electronic gadgets in their vehicles. Dual screen … Read more