Author: Marc Pons

Each year, North Carolina requires vehicles registered in the state to pass an annual safety inspection. This inspection must be done 90 days before the vehicle’s registration is up for renewal. A licensed mechanic checks the vehicle’s brakes, tires, headlights, and other important components and systems.

For many drivers, part of the annual safety inspection is a vehicle emissions test. While some vehicles are exempt, drivers should know if they’re required to receive an emissions inspection and how to pass one if they do.

Why Do I Need an Emissions Inspection?

Automobiles are major contributors to poor air quality. To control the toxins emitted into the atmosphere from motor vehicles, they are equipped with air pollution controls. North Carolina requires annual emissions tests to ensure these controls are working as intended and that your vehicle meets the state’s environmental standards.

How Much Does a North Carolina Emissions Inspection Cost?

Typically, the most you’ll be charged to complete a local NC emissions inspection is $30. But, if the vehicle has after-factory window tinting installed, there is an additional $10 fee. 

Exemption Guidelines

There are currently 19 counties out of 100 where emission inspections are necessary. If you live in one of the counties listed below, make sure you take your vehicle for its yearly inspection.

Alamance	Davidson	Gaston	Lincoln	Rowan
Buncombe	Durham	Guilford	Mecklenburg	Wake
Cabarrus	Forsyth	Iredell	New Hanover	Union
Cumberland	Franklin	Johnston	Randolph

There are a few vehicles that are exempt from the process if they meet specific criteria. For example, farm vehicles and diesel-operated vehicles do not have to submit to an emissions inspection. Additionally, if the vehicle is 20 years old or older, there is no emissions inspection required.

Light-duty gasoline vehicles with less than 70,000 miles made within the three newest model years are also exempt. These vehicles only have to go through the vehicle safety inspection required by the state. 

Antique vehicles are another emissions inspection exemption. Automobiles at least 30 years old can obtain an antique automobile license plate, which enables them to skip the annual inspection. This exemption for antique vehicles is because they’re generally used for public interest events like exhibitions and parades.

Does North Carolina Offer Any Tools to Help Me Check If My Vehicle Is Exempt From Emissions Inspections?

If you’re still unsure whether or not your vehicle must have an emissions inspection completed, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has an exemption calculator on their website to assist in making a determination. 

Simply enter the current calendar year, vehicle model year, and odometer reading into the calculator. Next, the calculator will use this information to let you know if you need to take your vehicle to an inspection station. 

What Happens If I Fail the NC Emissions Test?

Failing the test is an inconvenience, but it’s not the end of the world. The vehicle can be reinspected once the issue that caused the failure is resolved. The Division of Motor Vehicles’ License and Theft Bureau can issue a year-long waiver under the following circumstances: 

• Parts Waiver: If you fail an emissions inspection due to a part being tampered with or if the part is inoperative or no longer available, you can receive a parts waiver. To receive this waiver, you’ll need to provide three forms of documentation from a salvage yard, a dealership, and an automotive part store that support the claim the part isn’t available. These documents should also feature a signature on the company letterhead.
• Repair Waiver: If the visual and safety parts of the inspection were passed, but the emissions inspection was not, you can sometimes receive a repair waiver. To receive a repair waiver, you’ll need to make a minimum of $200 in repairs to correct the OBDII trouble codes that caused the emissions failure. Next, take the vehicle to the License and Theft Bureau with the proof needed to show that the appropriate repairs have been made. 

Alongside parts and repair waivers, you can receive a non-communication or “Not Ready” waiver. You can review a complete list of all these waivers and their requirements by visiting the North Carolina Environmental Quality’s page on emissions inspection results.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Vehicle Inspection Services Near You in the Triangle

If you’re looking for NC emissions near you in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. When you bring your vehicle in for a local NC emissions inspection appointment, our trained technicians will perform a comprehensive review of your vehicle. Alongside ensuring your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards, our technicians will check that your car is running efficiently and can perform any needed repairs.

Learn more about our NC vehicle inspection services today. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or make an appointment at one of our 11 locations in the Triangle area today!

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 622 motor vehicle traffic fatalities were caused by tire-related crashes in 2021. As the saying goes, your tires are the only thing between you and the road. As a result, it’s essential that you understand how to buy the correct tires for your vehicle and maintain them throughout the seasons.

In this article, we’ll dive into tire tread and traction grading so you can play your part in keeping everyone on the road safe, including yourself. 

What Is a Treadwear Grade?

Like most grades, you want to obtain the highest number in order to pass the test. The test you’re trying to pass is all about road and vehicle safety. A treadwear grade is used to indicate the tire’s wear rate. The higher the number, the more time it will take to wear down the tread. 

The treadwear ratings (along with the other grades) can be found on the sidewall of each passenger vehicle sold in the country. A grade of 100 is assigned to a control tire, and then the control is used as a comparison for other tires. For instance, if a treadwear grade is 300, it will take three times as long to wear down compared to the control tire.

What Is a Traction Grade?

What’s the distance your vehicle will travel on a wet road before it comes to a complete stop? The answer to this question can be found by looking at your tire’s traction grade. The grading scale is “AA”, “A”, “B”, and “C,” with higher grades indicating the tire can stop faster on wet pavement. “AA” is the highest ranking, and currently, only 15% of tires have this rating. Typically, you’ll want to avoid tires with ratings of C or B, as this rating means they’ll take longer to stop on wet pavement. 

What Is a Temperature Grade?

Alongside tire tread and traction grading, you can determine the quality of a tire by checking its temperature grade. This grade measures the tire’s resistance to heat, which is a concern when driving long distances, especially during the summer.

The grading system, from highest to lowest, uses “A”, “B”, and “C” grades to measure this aspect of tire quality. Currently, 34% of tires have a “B” rating, while 4% have received a “C”. Generally, “A” rated tires will be the right choice for most drivers, as they offer the highest level of protection from sustained high temperatures that can cause your tires to deteriorate.

What to Consider When Buying New Tires

When your old tires need to be replaced and you need to buy new ones, it’s a good idea to be armed with the above information. Most drivers will want to go with tires that have “A” ratings for traction, treadwear, and temperature, as they all provide significant protection from wear and environmental factors.

As you look for a new set of tires, be sure to refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual when it comes to tire size. The information is also posted inside the driver’s side door, and you should review it to ensure you’re purchasing tires in the right size for your vehicle. 

Besides checking their grades and size, you’ll also want to make sure you’re purchasing the right type of tire. Before you make a purchase, check if the tires are all-season, winter, summer, or all-terrain. Basically, you’ll want to base your tire type on the weather you typically drive in. For example, if you live in an area where snow, extreme temperatures, and mud aren’t a major concern, all-season tires are a great choice. 

However, if you often find yourself driving in deep snow, winter tires are a better option. In warm weather, summer tires will withstand high temperatures but aren’t designed for snow, ice, or freezing temperatures, making them a good choice for those who live in climates that are hot year-round. When you love taking your vehicle off-road, you’ll need all-terrain tires to navigate between different landscapes.

Tire Maintenance

Alongside checking your tires’ grades and types before you buy, you’ll want to properly maintain them to keep them performing at their best for as long as possible. Review some of our top tips for tire maintenance below:

• Keep your tires inflated at the right levels: Proper tire inflation is crucial to your car’s performance and safety. If you’re looking to save money on gas, this is one way to do so. 
• Receive regular tire rotation services: Tire rotation is also important because it ensures the treads are evenly worn, making your ride much smoother. Keeping them balanced and aligned is also recommended to extend their longevity. 
• Review your tire treads monthly: Check the treads once a month using the penny trick or the built-in treadwear indicators. If using a penny, place it between the treads, and if Lincoln’s head disappears, you’re in good shape. 
• Check treadwear indicators: Treadwear indicators are raised sections between the treads. Replace tires when they are level with the indicator.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tire Replacement Services in the Triangle

If you’re looking for new tires near you in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. At Chapel Hill Tire, we offer free lifetime and flat repairs on tires purchased from us. Pressure checks are free, and you’ll receive an annual risk-free alignment evaluation. We even have a handy tire shopping tool on our website so you can find the right tire for your vehicle.

Remember, tires are the only thing separating you and the road, so this is one area where being cheap can put you at risk of having an accident. Take advantage of our price-beat guarantee and schedule an appointment for a tire replacement service.

The summer heat can be brutal on the components inside your car battery. The heat under the hood (or trunk, for some) significantly rises in temperature, which increases the risk of battery failure. Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence during the hotter months, and over the summer, many North Carolina drivers find themselves stuck on the side of the road due to battery failure from the heat.

As you prepare for your road trips this summer, here are a few things to keep in mind so you get the most use out of your car battery. 

How Does Extreme Heat Affect a Car Battery?

When summer comes around, we tend to move at a slower pace because the heat makes us sluggish, and we’re looking to conserve energy. The sun makes us sweat, leaving us thirsty and searching for water to replace what we’ve lost. Your car battery has a similar experience, with the heat impacting it in several ways that harm its performance. Some of the main effects heat has on car batteries include: 

• Heat evaporates the battery’s vital fluids: As your hood or trunk gets warmer, the heat will evaporate the battery’s fluids. Without these fluids, your battery will send a weaker charge to other parts of the car. Eventually, the charge will grow so weak that your battery won’t be able to hold it.
• Heat speeds up the corrosion process: Besides impacting your battery’s charge, heat can increase the speed of corrosion on your battery. Once the internal components become corroded, the damage is irreversible. It’s even worse when the vital fluids have been drained from the battery, as evaporated battery fluid can corrode battery terminals and cause structural damage.
• Heat weakens the battery’s overall function: Heat damage will leave the battery weakened, which may cause your battery to fail in the summer. However, it can also make it so your battery can’t perform well once the seasons change and your battery starts to experience freezing temperatures. If your battery’s overall function is impacted during the summer, cold weather will likely kill the car battery and cause it to die much faster in the winter.

How Does Extreme Heat Affect Electric Vehicle Batteries?

Electric car owners aren’t free from the problems caused by high temperatures. Although electric vehicle (EV) batteries can keep running strong for up to 20 years, extreme heat can reduce their lifespan. Some of the primary effects heat has on EV batteries include: 

• An electric car battery may lose up to 20% of its range: When the temperature is above 95 degrees, EVs that normally make it 100 miles will only go 80 miles under these weather conditions.
• The battery needs to be charged more often: Since distances in hot weather are reduced, EVs can’t make as many trips on one charge. As a result, you’ll find yourself charging your EV’s battery more often in the summer.

How to Protect Your Car Battery In Hot Temperatures

Though heat can be brutal to your car’s battery, there’s plenty you can do to protect your battery and avoid an early car battery replacement. If you want to keep your battery running well all summer long, follow the below tips for how to protect your car battery from heat:

• Clean the battery: If you notice dirt, debris, or greasy buildup on the battery, remove it right away. Examine the battery regularly for these issues to ensure it remains in peak condition.
• Watch for corrosion: Hotter temperatures outside mean even hotter temperatures inside the vehicle’s engine. This can cause corrosion that will restrict the electrical current flow. If you notice any corrosion, a mechanic can use a copper brush or scouring pad to remove it from the battery.
• Drive the car regularly: Since heat drains the battery, it’s important to take a trip of 20 minutes or longer each day to ensure the battery replenishes and doesn’t discharge. If the car will be parked for an extended period, look into using a battery minder or smart charger.
• Park in a shaded area: Just sitting in the hot sun can cause problems for your car’s battery. Whenever possible, park in a shaded area, under a car park, or in a garage to shield it from heat.
• Check the water level: Lead-acid batteries must maintain a certain water level. If it’s low, use distilled water to replenish what was lost.
• Take your vehicle in for an inspection: One of the best ways to protect your car’s battery from heat is to bring it in for an inspection at the start of summer. If the inspection reveals your battery has corroded or is close to running out of power, the mechanic can clean your battery, fix any issues, and potentially provide a car battery replacement service if the battery is past the point of repair. 

How Can EV Owners Protect Their Vehicle’s Battery?

Alongside following the tips above, EV owners can protect their battery by charging it to the midpoint, or 50% to 60% of its total capacity. Since fully charging an EV battery can cause it to degrade faster, not charging it to its full capacity will ensure the combination of heat and a full charge won’t cause your battery to degrade even faster. You’ll also want to avoid using fast-charging stations over the summer, as fast charging can cause a battery to degrade faster.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Car Battery Service In the Triangle

If you need car battery services near you in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Whether you need a new car battery or an inspection, our team will ensure your vehicle’s battery works at its best before you hit the road again. You can also review our coupons to ensure you get a great deal on our services.

Learn more about our car battery services today. If you’re ready to bring your car in for an inspection or car battery replacement service, please find a location close to you and make an appointment.

A huge part of owning a vehicle is keeping up with its maintenance. If you own a vehicle, regular maintenance requirements like oil changes and tire rotations have probably become routine. However, some issues aren’t so routine but must be taken care of right away. One of those issues is your vehicle’s wheel alignment, which refers to how your tires are angled on your car. During an alignment, your vehicle’s suspension system will be adjusted to better angle your tires and maximize their contact with the road.

When your car is misaligned, you’ll find it harder to control your vehicle, and your tires will experience more wear and tear than normal. Wheel misalignment usually happens over time with standard wear and tear, but passing over bumps or potholes at high speeds or hitting a curb can cause sudden jarring and throw the wheels out of alignment. As you try to prevent the negative effects of a misaligned vehicle, review the top five most common symptoms your car will exhibit when it needs a new wheel alignment.

1. Vehicle Pulls to the Right or Left

When traveling down a road without any curves or bends, does your car try to pull to the right or left? If you’re not sure, pay attention to your hands the next time you’re driving straight. If you use one more than the other to keep the vehicle straight, it’s probably because it’s pulling to that side more often.

Most people believe vehicles should stay straight if you take your hands off the steering wheel, but that’s not true. Each road crowns to some degree which will cause vehicles to pull slightly to one side. However, when the car pulls to the same side on every road, it likely needs an alignment.

2. Steering Wheels Won’t Stay Centered

The steering wheel should stay straight and centered unless you’re making a turn. The easiest way to check for this issue is to look at the emblem in the center of your steering wheel. It’s time to take the car in for maintenance if it’s crooked. Also, if the steering wheel doesn’t naturally return to the center after making a turn, that is usually an indication that the alignment is off.

3. Steering Wheels Feel Loose

When the steering wheel feels wobbly and unstable, poor wheel alignment is usually the cause. You’ll find yourself constantly making small corrections to keep the car straight. Let a mechanic take a look at the issue to determine if a wheel misalignment is the source of the problem.

4. Tire Wear Patterns May Be Abnormal

Are your tires worn in certain spots but not in others? This inconsistent wear is usually a sign that the vehicle’s wheels need to be aligned. For instance, you’ll probably need a wheel alignment if the treads closer to the vehicle are in great shape but the treads on the opposite side are almost bald. Additionally, if the tire treads are worn down too quickly, that may be another indication that the wheel alignment is off.

5. Squealing Tires

When it comes to keeping your wheel aligned with the ground and other wheels on the vehicle, the camber and toe settings come into play. When one of them strays from its position, it creates friction which leads to strange noises.

One of the strange noises coming from the tires will be squealing. When you hear this obnoxious sound, don’t hesitate to take your car to a local mechanic.

Wheel Alignment Near Me in Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh

If you’re looking for a wheel alignment near you in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. With over 11 convenient Triangle locations, Chapel Hill Tire makes it easy and convenient for you to receive wheel alignment services. Once you bring your vehicle in, one of our certified mechanics will identify the exact issue and get you back on the road in no time.

Instead of spending one more second worrying about that shaky steering wheel or loud squeaking coming from the tires, schedule an appointment today for a free alignment inspection. Don’t forget to view our promotions and take advantage of any discounts related to your service. 

So you’re driving to work or out running errands when one of your tires suddenly gives out. No matter how many years you’ve been driving, this is a scary experience for anyone. It’s completely unexpected and unpredictable—or is it? 

Tire blowouts can be caused by numerous factors, including potholes or sharp objects in the road, like nails or shrapnel. But, some blowouts can be prevented with regular car maintenance. Keep reading to find out just what a tire blowout is and the warning signs you should pay attention to in order to keep yourself and other road users safe. 

What Is a Tire Blowout?

When one of the vehicle’s tires bursts out of nowhere, and all of its air rapidly escapes, it’s called a “blowout.” Now, the first thing you may think when this frightening situation occurs is that the tire has too much air. Why? Because we tend to associate something bursting with it being overinflated, but that isn’t always the case. 

Did you know that underinflation is just as dangerous as overinflation? Whether it’s over or under, an improperly inflated tire will blow out under the right circumstances.  

If the tire is underinflated, it will begin to flex and overheat, and during the hotter months – when eggs can be fried on asphalt – a tire without enough air is likely to burst.

As a nation, we use our cars to travel a lot during the summer, transporting our families and luggage to visit relatives and friends. When the tires aren’t inflated correctly, the extra weight and very hot roads are a recipe for disaster.

The 4 Most Common Tire Blowout Warning Signs

Since a blown tire can throw a serious wrench in your plans and even cause an accident, it’s important you know the main warning signs you’re nearing a burst tire. As you try to keep your vehicle and tires in the best shape possible, review the four most common signs you’re at risk of a tire blowout below:

1. Worn Out Tire Tread

When was the last time you checked the treads on your tires? If it’s been a while, you might want to head outside. 

The treads are full of bumps and ridges that allow the tire to get a tight grip on the road. If you regularly travel for long periods or have not changed the tires in a while, your tires are likely worn out. This wear can be risky for drivers as more wear means the tire has a weaker grip on the road and is more likely to burst.

Luckily, there’s something you can do to find out if your treads are the right thickness – it’s called the “old penny trick.” Take a penny and stick it into the tread to measure its depth. If the tread doesn’t rise above President Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a new set of tires.

2. Bubbles in the Tires

Bubbles are one of the most common tire defects. The part of the tire affected by this issue is the sidewall, which is made up of several layers of rubber. Sidewalls are not as thick as treads, and an improperly inflated or overheating tire’s wall layers will begin to separate.

When the separation happens, air can easily seep in between the layers of the sidewall. The area around the bubble is then stretched over the air pocket, causing this section of the wall to become thinner. Without warning, this spot can pop and cause a tire blowout.

3. Vibrating Tires

If the tires are vibrating while driving, this is definitely a sign that something is wrong. Instead of ignoring it, pull over as soon as possible and call a mechanic to ensure you don’t have a serious problem on your hands. The wheel may be misaligned or even bent, which can lead to other damages. You could also have a defective tire that is more likely to burst, and you’ll need to replace it with a new one before you can drive safely.

4. Deflated or Overinflated Tires

As we discussed previously, underinflation and overinflation can cause tire blowouts. If you’ve noticed your tires deflating faster than normal or you haven’t checked your tire’s pressure recently, you could have a deflated or overinflated tire. An overinflated tire is usually due to heat or user error where you accidentally put too much air in your tires. Additionally, under-inflated tires can be due to damaged valves or seals, cold weather, or a lack of regular maintenance and tire pressure checks.

Regardless of the cause, deflated and overinflated tires put you at risk of a burst tire. If you haven’t checked your tire pressure in a while, take your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for New Tires in the Triangle Area

If you’re looking for new tires near you in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Carrboro, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Our team can provide several tire services, including rotating, balancing, and replacing tires. We also carry a large inventory of new tires to ensure we can get your vehicle back on the road quickly. Before you schedule an appointment, check out our coupons to get a discount on our already low prices. Don’t spend more time worrying about your tires, and let us help you confidently travel the roads. 

Schedule an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire today, and take advantage of our top-quality tire services. 

Many students attend a traditional college or university to earn a degree so they can begin a career they are passionate about. However, you’ve probably heard the phrase college isn’t for everyone, and if you’re one of those people who doesn’t think college is right for them, you should know you still have plenty of ways you can find a fulfilling and well-paying career. 

Recently there has been a surge of interest in trade schools as many individuals choose to circumvent the traditional system and look for direct training for the job they wish to pursue. If you have a real love for cars and don’t mind getting your hands dirty fixing things, a career as an automotive mechanic may be right for you. 

As you decide between a trade school or college, learn more about their differences and what you should do to become a certified automotive mechanic.

What’s the Difference Between Trade School and College?

The biggest difference between a trade school and a traditional college is the omission of general education classes and liberal arts courses at a trade school. Instead of making you take classes you’ll likely never use again, trade schools offer practical training in a specific vocation, which is why they’re also called vocational schools.

Trade schools offer mechanic training and job-specific coursework for other skilled trades. Students are known to finish their education in about half the time it takes a college student. For example, a trade school tends to only last one to two years, while an undergraduate degree usually takes four years. Not to mention, trade school costs less, and students are usually guaranteed a job upon graduation.

College degrees do carry a certain amount of prestige, but certification from a trade school shouldn’t be looked at as any less important. The education and skills learned in trade school are just as vital to our functionality as a society.

After all, who’s going to unclog the shower drains, fix the cars that have broken down on the side of the road, or repair the hot water heater? A graduate of a trade school, that’s who.

Is Becoming a Mechanic The Right Move?

Mechanic jobs are physically demanding, and you’ll need adequate training to get into this field. While the job can be demanding, it gives you a chance to work with your hands, not sit behind a desk all year, and earn a higher salary than many college-degree holders (the average salary of automotive mechanics in the United States is close to $49,000 as of July 2023). 

Becoming a mechanic is also a great choice if you love problem-solving. Since tons of things can go wrong with vehicles, mechanics who know how to break down problems and come up with a solution are highly sought after. Of course, those who love working with cars and aren’t interested in attending college are also well-suited for working in the automotive industry.

How Do You Receive Mechanic Training? 

If you think becoming a car mechanic sounds like a rewarding career for you, the process of becoming one is relatively simple. Review the main steps of landing mechanic jobs below:

• Attend a trade school after college: After graduating high school, you’ll need to finish a mechanic training program. Some programs even partner with high schools to find potential trainees. Quite often, you’re allowed to train as a mechanic while working on your high school diploma. Whether you start in high school or after, pick a trade school near you and complete the required courses to prepare yourself for a mechanic job. 
• Gain an entry-level certification: After you finish your trade school coursework, the next step is an entry-level certification. To gain this credential, you’ll need to take a test developed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 
• Land a mechanic internship: After you pass the exam, you’ll need to enter into a mechanic internship or apprenticeship before getting hired. Once you have everything you need to become a certified professional technician, you’ll take another ASE exam.
• Apply for a job and continue your education: After you’ve passed your ASE exam, the company you interned for may offer you a position, but you could also need to apply to other shops. Once you begin working, don’t think your education stops. You’ll need to keep up with the current trends in your field. Technology is constantly making improvements and introducing new features, meaning you’ll need to stay on top of trends in the automotive industry.

Join Our Family of Qualified Mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire

If you want to become a mechanic, you can find a mechanic position for you at Chapel Hill Tire. At Chapel Hill Tire, we support all of our mechanics at our 11 Triangle area locations by paying for unlimited training. We also care about our automotive technicians’ work-life balance, so we stick to a five-day work week, never require night shifts, and offer paid vacations and holidays. Additionally, our industry-leading 401k retirement plan, health care package, and performance bonuses ensure you’re well-compensated for the work you do. 

When you’re ready to see for yourself what working with Chapel Hill Tire is like, apply for a position today.

Do you know what’s worse than sitting in a car on a smoldering summer day with no working air conditioner and the windows rolled up? Sitting in the same car on the same day with an AC unit pushing stinky air throughout the vehicle. Instead of dealing with the bad smell and possibly letting an issue with your car get worse, you can learn more about the most common car AC smells and how to solve them.

The Four Common AC Odors to Watch Out For

There are a number of reasons that the cool air coming out of your car’s vents does not smell fresh or pleasant. Fortunately, the particular smell of the air will often give you an idea of what’s going wrong and how severe the issue is. As you try to figure out what’s wrong with your vehicle, review our guide to the four most common car AC smells below:

1. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Sweet

If your car’s vents are releasing a sweet yet pungent odor, the heater core may be leaking, and engine coolant is seeping into the system’s ducts. If you notice a slimy film forming on the windows, this is probably the case, and the heater core needs to be replaced by a mechanic.

Another cause could be burning engine oil or coolant. These fumes can get sucked up into the unit, causing your AC to churn out an unpleasant odor when you first turn the AC unit on. Take a look under the hood and make sure there are no oil stains or leaks, and go see your mechanic to take care of any necessary repairs.

2. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Must, Mildew, and Mold

When the under-hood air intake has dust and debris build-up, water and moisture get trapped on the unit’s evaporator and in the evaporator case. This trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for nasty mold and germs to grow. If you have trapped moisture, you’ll get a mildewy aroma when you turn on the AC.

One solution is to flush the evaporator case and use an antibacterial spray to clean the ducts. But don’t try to do this at home. Instead, see a professional mechanic so they can apply the commercial-grade chemicals that will get rid of the contaminants.

If there’s no water dripping from your car when the AC is on, it may be indicative of the evaporator case drain hole being clogged. For instance, it’s possible that leaves or some other debris has gotten in there and needs to be removed. Since you don’t want to be breathing in mold while you drive, take your car to a mechanic, and they’ll check for a clog and remove it for you.

3. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Chemicals and Mold

A strong chemical odor that also smells a little moldy is usually a sign that refrigerant is leaking from the AC evaporator. Listen for the blower fan, and if you can hear it running strong, but there’s little to no air coming out of the vents, your car’s refrigerant has probably leaked onto the evaporator fins. Besides making your car smell like chemicals, the leakage will stop the air from efficiently flowing through the vehicle. Take your car in and explain the issue to your mechanic so they can repair the AC.

4. Why Your Car’s AC Smells Like Vinegar

There can be a few reasons the air from the AC system smells like vinegar. It could be as simple as mold or a much bigger problem. Battery acid may have leaked, adding this sulfuric smell to the air. Or, it could have to do with ozone emissions. Whatever the reason, you’ll need to take your car to your local mechanic to solve the issue.

Come To Chapel Hill Tire for Car AC Service in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the Surrounding Areas

If you live in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Carrboro, or Chapel Hill, the team at Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Whether it’s a cabin air filter replacement or a new heater core, we’re ready to serve you. Our vehicle air conditioning services can help you fix everything from poor performance and warm air to bad smells and strange smells. Before you come in, be sure to check our service coupons for a discount on our affordable services. So, don’t spend any more time getting hot and sticky in that car; schedule a service appointment with Chapel Hill Tire to get your AC smelling at its best again.

Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) Standards tell you how well your tires perform in various situations, like wet conditions or high speeds. While UTQG rating won’t always tell you all the information you may want to know about a tire, it can give you some insights into a tire’s performance in different conditions. When you understand what UTQG ratings are and why they matter, you can ensure your vehicle always has high-quality tires. 

What Are UTQG Ratings?

UTQG ratings refer to letter and number grades that tell you a tire’s treadwear, temperature resistance, and traction in wet conditions. The vehicle’s treadwear will have a number grade, while traction and temperature have letter grades. In the United States, UTQG ratings are required for passenger tires but not deep-tread light truck tires, run-flats, and winter tires.

 Where Do I Find UTQG Ratings?

If you’re interested in reviewing the UTQG ratings on your vehicle’s tires or want to check the UTQG ratings for new tires, they should be located on a tire’s sidewall. On the sidewall, you should see the letter and number grades for your tires. 

Why Are UTQG Ratings Important?

Since UTQG ratings tell you about your tires’ traction, treadwear, and heat resistance, they can give you crucial information about how well your tires will perform and how long they’ll last. Learn more about the top three reasons UTQG ratings are important below:

1. UTQG Ratings Tell You How Well Your Tires Perform in Wet Conditions

A tire’s UTQG traction grade refers to how well the tire retains its grip on a wet surface. As a result, it shows how effective a tire is at stopping in wet conditions. The traction grades come in four ratings: AA, A, B, and C. 

As you might expect, AA means it has the highest level of grip on wet surfaces, while C means the tire has the least grip. The vast majority of tires have an A rating, and very few have a C rating, as those with a C rating are typically used for racing rather than everyday use. Generally, A-rated tires tend to be the right option for most drivers, but if you need ultra-high-performance tires, those with a AA grade are the best choice.

You’ll also want to note that traction ratings don’t evaluate the tire’s grip in dry conditions. It also doesn’t evaluate a tire’s hydroplaning resistance or how well it corners. Essentially, the tire’s traction grade will only tell you how well a tire stops in wet conditions, with A being effective enough for most drivers.

2. UTQG Ratings Let You Know How Fast Your Tire Will Last Compared to Other Tires

Over time, a tire’s tread (the rubber part of your tire that touches the road) will wear down, making your tires more vulnerable to punctures. If you let your tire’s tread wear down too much, your tires won’t have enough traction, and you could lose control of your vehicle. You can often get a general sense of how long your tires will take to wear down to unsafe levels by checking their UTQG rating.

While the UTQG ratings that relate to temperature and traction have a letter grade, the treadwear rating has a number grade. While some believe the treadwear rating refers to a mileage projection, it actually refers to how well a tire compares to a reference tire. If the tire is expected to last as long as the reference tire, it will have a UTQG treadwear grade of 100. When the tire is expected to last twice as long, it will receive a grade of 200. 

Most tires are in the 200 to 400 treadwear range, but you can find some above 600, meaning they’re expected to last at least six times longer than the reference tire. Since treadwear ratings can be manipulated by manufacturers, they’re best used to compare treadwear for tires from the same manufacturer instead of competing brands.

3. UTQG Ratings Give You Information About Your Tire’s Heat Resistance

Whether you’re cruising down the highway or driving around your neighborhood, your tires will generate heat. A tire’s UQTG temperature grade refers to how much heat the tire will dissipate, with the result letting you know how well your tire resists heat at high speeds. The three temperature grades are A, B, and C, with all passenger tires having to earn at least a C grade. Grades lower than C will put your tires at risk of overheating while you drive at higher speeds. Review the following descriptions of each grade below:

• A grade: Can effectively dissipate heat at speeds over 115 mph
• B grade: Can effectively dissipate heat between 100 to 115 mph
• C grade: Can effectively dissipate heat between 85 to 100

As you can see, an A grade means your car can handle the highest levels of heat, while C can handle the lowest acceptable levels. Most people won’t ever drive their car faster than 85 to 100 mph, so most drivers can get away with tires featuring a C temperature rating. However, you may want to go higher if you plan to drive your vehicle faster or simply want greater heat resistance.

Schedule Tire Replacement Services at Your Local Chapel Hill Tire

If you’re looking for new tires near you in Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Whenever you need to change your tires, our team can help you understand the UTQG ratings for a new set of tires and give you advice on what ratings you should be looking for. With our 11 Triangle-area locations and many services, we’re confident we can get your car back on the road quickly and safely.

Review our selection of tires today. If you need tire replacement services or other types of vehicle maintenance, please schedule an appointment!

During the summer, you need your car working at its best for road trips, vacations, or just rides around town. While the summer is a great time to take your car out on the road, the heat can be dangerous to your car. Instead of risking heat-related break-downs, you can follow a few car summer maintenance tips to keep your car in great shape all summer long.

4 Car and Tire Maintenance Tips for the Summer

Whether it’s your engine, tires, fluids, or battery, heat can seriously strain your car’s most important parts. Fortunately, receiving some inspections and maintenance services can protect your car from the heat. Review our top four summer car maintenance tips below:

1. Have Your Fluids Checked

Your car uses several fluids to stop different systems from overheating. If you haven’t had your fluid levels checked recently, your levels could be low, meaning some of your car’s systems might be at a higher risk of overheating.

To make sure your car has the right fluid levels, a mechanic should check your car’s coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid. When the mechanic refills your fluids, they should only use a fluid type your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends.

2. Inspect the Battery

In the summer, the heat can be hard on your battery. Since the heat will raise the temperature under your vehicle’s hood, your battery will corrode faster. Alongside the higher risk of corrosion, water can evaporate your battery’s liquid electrolyte. Both of these issues can shorten the battery’s life and lower its capacity.

Since the heat can be dangerous for a battery, it’s important a mechanic inspects it. At a service location, a mechanic can look for corrosion on or near the battery. If they find corrosion, they may be able to clean it, but sometimes they’ll need to replace your battery depending on the severity of the corrosion. They should also check your battery to make sure it has enough charge for the summer.

3. Check Your Vehicle’s Tire Pressure

Just like your car’s fluids and battery, the heat can affect your tire pressure. While cold weather can lower your tire pressure, the summer heat will cause air molecules in your tire to spread out and move faster. As a result, the air molecules can cause your tires to over-inflate. High temperatures also mean your tires will generate more heat while you drive, increasing the risk of your tires bursting.

To protect your tires from overinflating and potentially bursting while you’re driving, take your car in for an inspection. During this inspection, a mechanic will check your tire’s pressure and let any excess air out of them. By keeping your vehicle’s tire pressure at the right levels, you’ll lower the risk of a burst tire stranding you on the side of the road. You can also make sure your tires stay at the right pressure by regularly using a tire pressure gauge to check them.

4. Schedule an Oil Change

When your driving in the summer, the high temperatures raise the risk of your engine overheating. As your engine heats up, it will reduce your oil’s viscosity and make it thinner. Without the right viscosity, your engine won’t have enough lubrication and will generate more friction. This friction can then overheat your engine.

Though the summer can affect your car’s oil, you can keep your vehicle in great shape by scheduling an oil change. During an oil change, the mechanic can use a more viscous oil to reduce the risk of your oil thinning to unsafe levels. They can also fill the oil to your car’s max to better protect the engine from overheating. You should also know that if you get an oil change from Chapel Hill Tire, it will include a tire air pressure check and fluids level inspection, ensuring your vehicle is ready for the summer.

Schedule a Summer Car Maintenance Appointment at Chapel Hill Tire

If you’re looking for car service near you in the Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. With our 11 Triangle-area locations and experienced mechanics, we’re confident we can prepare your car for the summer heat. Our mechanics can change your oil, inspect your vehicle, refill fluids, and perform any maintenance services you need. Before you drop off your car for service, check our current promotions to see how much you can save. When you need maintenance or an oil change, schedule your appointment today!

Some vehicle lighting issues are impossible to miss, while others can be “out of sight, out of mind”—until they cause a problem. As a critical part of your car’s safety, it is essential to keep your vehicle lights in working order. Our local mechanics are here with five signs you need light service. 

1. Unusual Beeping Sounds

Are you noticing your turn signal making an unusual beeping sound? This sound could be your car’s way of letting you know your indicator bulb is out. The burnt-out bulb will send an irregular current through your system, causing it to beep faster. This helpful change of pace lets drivers know it is time for turn signal bulb replacement. 

2. Trouble Seeing on the Road

Naturally, your headlights should help you see the road clearly at night. In some cases, a headlight bulb will give out all at once. In other cases, your headlight problems can onset gradually—making the issue harder to spot. However, if you are experiencing difficulties seeing on the road at night, have your headlights inspected by a local mechanic. You can find information about five reasons your headlights may be dimming here. 

3. Road Rage and Driving Mishaps

Most drivers can go several days, weeks, or even months without hearing another car’s horn beeping at them. However, even the most careful drivers can seem reckless or inconsiderate when driving with a broken safety light. 

For example, while you might always use your turn signal properly, other drivers will not see it with a burnt-out bulb. In these cases, a well-indicated turn can seem unexpected to the driver behind you. If you find yourself confused by the responses you are getting on the road, take a moment to check your lighting for issues. 

Additionally, your vehicle lights are installed to promote safety and prevent accidents. Naturally, when one of your lights is out, you might find yourself experiencing close calls on the road. However, a close call can quickly become a full-blown car accident without prompt service. This danger is why it is essential to have faulty bulbs replaced as soon as possible. 

4. Routine Vehicle Lighting Checks

The easiest way to determine if you have a vehicle lighting problem is to check for issues manually. This inspection is easy to do on your own—and even easier with a friend. With your car parked in a safe location, initiate your headlights, turn signals, and reverse lights one at a time. Have your companion let you know if they’re working effectively. 

The process is similar when working on your own, except that you will have to do both roles—turning on each light, exiting your car, and checking its performance. The only bulbs that can be challenging to see independently are your reverse lights. To check your reverse lights on your own, you have a few options:

• Set up your phone’s camera to record your vehicle in reverse. 
• Turn on your parking brake and put your vehicle in reverse. Double-check to ensure your parking brake is working to prevent vehicle movement before exiting your car to check the reverse lights. 
• If all else fails, ask a mechanic to check your reverse lights. They will do this for free—and it takes just a few moments. 

5. Failing Your Annual Car Inspection

As mentioned above, your lights are a vital car safety feature. As such, all safety lighting must work effectively to earn a pass on your annual car inspection. Drivers may fail the inspection for a burnt-out turn signal, brake light, tail light, or headlight. You can read our guide to everything checked during your car’s safety inspection here. 

Other Car Lighting Issues

If you don’t find a burnt-out bulb, you might have another vehicle underlying issue. Let’s take a look at some reasons your car’s lights might not be working—even with well-functioning bulbs:

• Lens issues: Your lenses are made of professional-grade acrylic. This material allows your lights to shine through while thoroughly protecting the bulb. However, the sun’s UV rays can oxidize the acrylic over time, making your lenses foggy, yellow, and opaque. A headlight restoration service carefully removes the oxidized layer of your lenses to improve your light visibility. 
• Wiring issues: In other cases, your vehicle lighting issue could be caused by a wiring mishap. This issue is especially probable if you recently attempted DIY lighting or electrical solutions. A professional mechanic can find and repair the wiring issues to restore your light’s functionality. 
• Power troubles: While gas cars are powered by fuel, their electrical elements (like the lighting) will rely on the battery and alternator. Depending on your lighting type and vehicle, your car lights might start dimming as an early indicator of battery failure. Click here for our guide to the four most common signs you are due for a new car battery. 
• Vehicle configurations: It is worth double-checking to ensure your lights are turned on to your preferred setting. While it might seem obvious, it is easy to flip a switch or change your settings without realizing it. In the rare case that your car’s lights are turned off rather than broken, this quick check can save you an extra trip to the mechanic. 

Local Car Bulb Replacement and Headlight Service

When your car has lighting troubles, the local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here for you. You can bring your vehicle to one of our 11 Triangle-area locations—or let us come to YOU with our pick-up and delivery service. We welcome you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!