Road Force Tire Balancing in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham

If the road conditions in your area have you experiencing turbulence during every trip, you might want to consider road force tire balancing. This service counteracts the effects of rocky roads and sensitive vehicles to give you a steadier and safer ride. Here is everything you need to know about road force tire balancing.

What is Road Force Tire Balancing?

Road force tire balancing is an advanced service for inspecting and regulating your vehicle’s tires and rims to achieve a smoother drive. The ultimate goal of road force tire balancing is to adjust the arrangement of each tire for the perfect and individualized tire unit alignment.

How Does the Road Force Balancing Process Work?

The road force balancing process first involves testing your tires and your rims for variations in height using a device that simulates the weight of your vehicle. This device takes precise data from your tires and uploads it into a computer program that gives vehicle service technicians insight into the composition of your tires. Vehicle service professionals then take this information to align the high and low points of your tires and your rims for optimal road force balancing. This effectively minimizes the vibrations you experience while on the road, providing you with a smooth and comfortable ride.

When Do You Need Road Force Balance?

• Expensive rims: If you have expensive rims that you want to protect, getting your tires road force balanced can help you preserve your investment by keeping your rims from getting scratched or damaged. This protection is provided by the elimination of tire vulnerabilities during the road force balancing process.
• Small tires: If your tires are small they likely will not provide a substantial barrier between the inside of your vehicle and the road’s turbulence. If your tires do not have significant amounts of tread, you can be easily affected by small issues with the road or with your tires. This makes it especially important to minimize both road and vehicle disruptions by ensuring that your tires are properly balanced.
• Uncomfortable ride: If you have passengers who are sensitive to the subtle movements of your vehicle or if you would just prefer a smoother ride, road force balancing may be the solution you are looking for. This service will reduce the disruptions and vibrations you feel inside your car so that you can ride more comfortably.
• Unsafe Disruptions: Ultimately, there is nothing more important to your driving experience than your safety. If your steering wheel is vibrating uncontrollably or your vehicle feels unstable, your safety on the road could quickly become compromised. Road force tire balancing can help you regain control. This service can also help you avoid needing additional and more expensive repairs down the road.

What is Match Mounting?

One key concept central to road force balancing is the process of match mounting. Match mounting is the final step in the road force balancing process, one that helps distinguish it from other tire services. This is when your vehicle service technician synthesizes the data provided by the road force balancer to determine where the high and low points of your tires are located. When they align the variations in height across your tires and rims, they are matching the unbalanced points of your tires. This process—in addition to the advanced data-gathering methods—is what helps road force balancing stand out from other tire balancing services.

Where to Get Road Force Tire Balance

If you need road force balancing services for your vehicle, visit Chapel Hill Tire. Our experts will give you a free consultation to help determine if road force balancing is right for you. With locations in Chapel Hill, Durham, Carrboro, and Raleigh, our service professionals are here for you; visit the experts at Chapel Hill Tire today!

4 Ways to Know it is Time to Change your Brake Pads

Brake health is essential to an overall safe driving experience. While there is a lot that goes into maintaining a healthy brake system, consistent maintenance is almost entirely isolated to the vehicle’s brake pads, so how do you know when it is time to change your car’s brake pads?

Time of the Year

Depending on the vehicle you drive and the climate you live in, your brake pads may be under more stress during certain times of the year. The summer season can bring intense heat, which can strain your braking system as a whole. Your brake pads work by engaging friction, which naturally creates heat. Hot weather can enhance this heat friction, which leads to increased stress on your brake pads and your braking system as a whole. The summer season also means higher volumes of traffic, which may cause you to brake more regularly and intensely. It is important that you ensure your braking system is prepared for the strain of summer, so at the first signs of intense heat in your area might be a good indicator that it is time to have your brake pads inspected.

Likewise, intense wintery weather can also affect your vehicle’s brake function. Cold weather, snow, and ice on roads can interrupt the process of braking by increasing the friction necessary for a safe and responsive stop. This lag is heightened if your brake pads are worn down or ineffective. If there is wintery weather in your area or storm season approaching, you might consider getting your brake pads checked by a professional. It is better to be safe than to run into an issue where you, your family, and your safety is compromised. The change of season to those with intense weather patterns, like summer and winter, are the most important times to get your brake pads inspected.

Pay Attention to Your Vehicle

Nobody knows your vehicle better than you do, which means that you will likely notice if your vehicle is not braking as it should. When the material on your brake pads wears away, your vehicle can take longer to slow down and to stop, which can make it difficult to prevent accidents in hazardous driving situations. Additionally, if your vehicle is making loud metallic or grinding noises when you brake, this means that your brake pads are not acting alone; it is likely that your rotor is coming in contact with the caliper because your brake pads are worn down too far. It is important to get this issue repaired before it develops into something more serious or causes you to get into an accident. If you notice that your vehicle’s braking system is showing signs of deterioration, this is a key indicator that it is time to get your brake pads replaced.

Self Checking Your Brake Pads

Brake pads are layered with friction materials that apply pressure to your vehicle’s spinning rotor to help you slow and stop your vehicle. Over time, this friction material wears away, affecting their overall braking effectivity. When you brake pads reach low levels of friction material, you know that it is time for a change in brake pads. If you are comfortable with examining these materials on your own, you can check your brake pad composition at home to determine when it is time for a brake pad change. Look to the rotor of your tires, which is where the brake pads live in your car. Check to see how much friction material remains on your existing brake pads. If it is close to or beneath ¼ of an inch, you know that it is time for a brake pad change. If you do not feel comfortable locating or checking these brake pads on your own, it is best to leave the inspection and the brake pad change to the professionals.

Listen to the Experts

The best way to tell when you need new brake pads is to listen to what your professional automotive service experts say. With routine vehicle checkups, you will always know that your brake pads are in prime condition for keeping you safe while on the road. This can also help you prevent more costly damages that may result from faulty brakes. With expert input and care, you can get your brakes repaired quickly and affordably to keep you safe while on the road.

Brake Pad Service in Chapel Hill

If you are seeking brake pad service in the North Carolina Triangle, Chapel Hill Tire has 7 locations between Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Carrboro with experts ready to help!  Let our service professionals inspect and replace your brake pads today!

How Do I Choose An Auto Repair Center?

Everyone needs a trusted doctor, accountant, and mechanic. We’ll leave the medical and tax decisions up to you.

But we are uniquely qualified to help you choose a service center. You’ve probably read online reviews. You’ve probably asked friends and family for recommendations. There’s a barrage of advertising, but nobody has time to sort through marketing claims.

We’ve come up with a step-by-step guide for choosing an automotive service center.

1. Qualifications and Experience

Modern cars are sophisticated traveling computers. Today’s technicians serve car computer systems along with the other systems. They use an iPad as often as a wrench. Computing tech advances rapidly.

What type of certifications should I look for?

The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification is an industry-standard. The ASE program is organized by vehicle type and automotive systems. One of the advanced certifications under this training protocol is the Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist (L3). Repair centers that employ techs with the hybrid certification are ahead of the game.

When technicians have completed the multi-phase ASE course, they are eligible for the ASE Masters Certification. Technicians must re-certify every five years.

2. Specialized Shops or Full-Service?

Some people go to the quick lube for routine oil changes. And brakes-only shops for brake repairs. A shop with a narrow focus may offer a low price. And they may perform quality repairs in their specialty. If you fix transmissions all day—you’re probably going to get good at it. If you aren’t interested in developing a long-term relationship with a full-service shop, this can be a good choice. Make sure you do your research, though. I would be wary of an express lube that just opened last week with a month-to-month lease. Also, beware of the upsell. Corporate chain shops are notorious for pushing extra services that you may not need.

3. Dealership or Independent?

Some drivers swear by their dealer for service and maintenance. They can expect quality service from factory-trained mechanics. A couple of things to keep in mind: dealerships have massive overhead costs. In most cases, you will pay more for repairs. At the dealer, you interact with a service advisor. You probably can’t talk to the technician who actually works on your car.

When it comes to amenities, dealerships score high. Most offer shuttle services, a clean waiting area, and fresh coffee. Some elite independent shops have met and matched dealership amenities. So don’t opt for the dealer without looking around. You could save a lot of money.

4. Convenience/Amenities

Auto service centers can’t compete anymore with a sparse waiting area and instant coffee. But look beyond the waiting room. What if you never had to set foot in it—regardless of whether it has comfy chairs and cable TV? A few elite shops now have a valet service. They pick your car up at your home. When the shop valet arrives, they leave a courtesy car for you to use. Does your shop do that?

5. Pricing

If you don’t know the expected price for the service you need, do some research. Some service centers show their prices on their website. Keep in mind that these are average figures. The price can go up from the base estimate.

You can call a couple of shops to get an idea of the average rate. Once you have a ballpark figure, don’t jump at the lowest bid. Make sure they have technicians who can perform quality work.

Price transparency is an area where you can weed out the shady shops. If you are quoted a price that’s higher than standard, make sure they can explain exactly why. Does your car need a special part? If they tell you it’s because the muffler bearings and crank seals are located in the radiator, run.

Price beat guarantees

Some service centers will beat bids from shops in the area. If you like to get the lowest prices on your new tires, a price beat guarantee can help you know that you are getting the best prices on new tires.

6. Service Warranties

This is where a top-tier service center can really shine. Shops that offer a service warranty stand behind their work. Their goal is to acquire a customer for life. If you’ve been burned by an unscrupulous shop, look for a good service warranty. Quality service centers can restore your trust. What’s that worth?

7. Reputation

Reputation is earned over time. Service centers with an impeccable reputation deserve consideration. How long as the shop been in business? Do they support local organizations? Are they eco-responsible? A company that has been around for decades is doing something right. They are invested in the community. They consistently meet high standards of professionalism. Online reviews can reveal a lot—good and bad.

How Do I Choose An Auto Repair Center?

Your car may be your most expensive investment after your house. It pays to do your homework. If you have any questions about Chapel Hill Tire, we look forward to answering them. Contact our experts by phone or schedule an appointment online. As always, thanks for visiting our blog.

How do I check my tire tread?

Tire tread has the capacity to affect your vehicle’s safety and performance while on the go. While you might not think about your tire tread every time you drive, it is important to check in every once in a while to ensure that your tires are in good working order. Ready to talk about tire tread depth? Let’s dive in.

What is Tire Tread Depth?

The tread depth of the tire is a vertical measurement between the top of the tread and the lowest groove. In the U.S., tire tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. When tires are brand new, they have tread depths from 10/32 to 11/32.

What is a Tread Wear Indicator?

In the United States, tires are required by law to have easily recognizable tread wear indicators. As the tire tread wears down, it eventually becomes level with the tread wear indicator. At this point, the tire should be replaced. It has too little tread left to provide traction. If safety weren’t persuasive enough, keep in mind that it is also illegal to drive with bald tires.

When is Tread Depth Too Low?

The minimum legal limit is 2/32 of an inch. This doesn’t mean that tires are perfectly safe if they have 3/32 left of tread. This is simply the limit at which you won’t pass your state safety inspection. Your tires become incrementally less safe as the tread wears down.

What Does Tread Depth Affect?

When it comes to safety, your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road. Sufficient tire tread depth is necessary for safe turning and braking.

Low tire tread depth can spell disaster for your drive, including:

• Reduced stopping distance
• Less traction in snowy or icy conditions
• Increased risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions
• Increased risk of a tire blowout
• Reduced acceleration power
• Decreased fuel efficiency

If you live in an area where it rains or snows frequently, consider replacing tires when they reach 4/32 of an inch. With worn tires, you are at risk of hydroplaning on wet roads. This is when the tire can’t channel the water through the grooves. The car rides along the top of the water instead of staying in contact with the asphalt. As such, the tires can’t respond to the steering system. If you have experienced it, you know how terrifying it can be. In icy or snowy conditions, low tread depth makes it harder to stop. You can also fishtail when accelerating or slide sideways when turning.

There are special considerations for driving in hot weather as well. If you are heading into summer and your tires are near the end of their lifespan, be aware that they wear down faster on hot roads.

How Do I Check My Tire Tread?

Easy peasy. All you need to check your tire tread depth is a penny. Insert the penny with Abraham Lincoln’s head upside down. If the top of Abe’s head is showing, it’s time for new tires. Tamara shows you how to do it in this video.

Be thorough when you measure your tread depth. Insert the penny in several places around the tire. It’s not uncommon to have uneven tread wear. Measuring in several places will compensate for this.

Why Does Tire Air Pressure Matter?

Having the proper air pressure in your tires is also critical. Tire air pressure is expressed as a number followed by PSI. This stands for pounds per square inch. 28 PSI means 28 pounds per square inch. It is a measurement of the force inside the tire applied to one square inch. You can check the recommended tire pressure for your car in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. For most vehicles, it is around 32 PSI.

The Problems With Underinflated Tires

If your pressure is too low, your tires will wear out quicker. You will also get poorer gas mileage. This is because it’s harder for your engine to propel a vehicle riding on squishy tires. Low tire air pressure also results in a jerkier ride. Thankfully, there are plenty of easy ways to score a free tire pressure refill.

The Problems With Overinflated Tires

If you discover that your tires are too low, fill to the correct pressure. Don’t assume ‘more is better’. There are problems with overinflation as well. When a tire has too much air, it doesn’t have as much surface area in contact with the pavement. This makes it more difficult to handle. It also increases the risk of a blowout. At high speeds, a blowout can be deadly.

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

Since the early 1970s, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and international counterparts were concerned about the dangers of low air pressure. They were seeking technology that could warn drivers. Evidence was mounting that underinflated tires were a factor in thousands of car accidents each year. At the end of the decade, the NHTSA was also motivated by the energy crisis. Tire air pressure affects fuel economy.

Tire pressure sensing technology became available in the 1980s and was first used by Porsche on the 1987 Porsche 959. In the U.S., TPMS was federally mandated beginning with the 2007 model year.

There are two types of TPMS, indirect and direct. Direct pressure detectors are located on the tire stems. If the sensor detects a significant drop in pressure, it sends an alert to the engine computer—resulting in a dashboard warning light. The indirect type uses the antilock brake system to detect low pressure by measuring wheel speed. Tires revolve at different speeds depending on air pressure. The indirect method is less reliable and has been largely phased out among manufacturers.

Let Chapel Hill Tire Serve Your Tire Needs

At Chapel Hill Tire, we have been providing professional automotive service to North Carolina drivers since 1953. We help our valued clients choose the right tire and protect their tire investment with alignment and wheel balancing services.

Do you need new tires in Cary, Apex, Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or Durham? Our experts can help you find the right tires for your vehicle at the lowest possible price. With our Price Beat Guarantee, you can ensure you are getting the best possible price on new tires in the Triangle. Schedule an appointment at one of our 10 Triangle-area service centers. We look forward to welcoming you to Chapel Hill Tire!

Warning Lights in Your Car: What Do They Mean?

Dashboard warning lights tell you if there’s a problem under the hood. Simple. Right?

Actually it isn’t so simple. Modern cars have so many warning lights it can be kind of confusing. Let’s demystify it.

Your dashboard warning lights are part of your onboard diagnostics system (OBD). Before 1996, auto manufacturers had proprietary diagnostics systems. The codes and lights varied depending on the make and model. In 1996, the industry standardized many of the diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). The 1996 standard is called the OBD-II.

The impetus for this industry move was to comply with vehicle emissions regulations. But it had additional positive effects. For one thing, it made it easier for auto owners and professional service technicians to diagnose engine problems.

When a warning light comes in, it means your car’s diagnostic system has detected a problem. It stores a trouble code in its memory.

Sometimes, the engine will adjust for the problem on its own. For example, if your oxygen sensor detects a problem, it can adjust the air/fuel mixture to solve the issue.

Yellow and Red Dashboard Warning Lights

It’s important for drivers to know the difference between yellow and red.

If a warning light flashes red, pull over to a safe place as soon as you can. It’s not safe to drive the vehicle. If you continue to drive, it could endanger the passengers or expensive engine components.

If a warning light is yellow, take your car in for service ASAP.

The Check Engine Light (CEL)

If the CEL is blinking, the problem is more urgent than if it is glowing steadily. It could mean several different problems. Many of these problems have to do with your emissions system. Hopefully, it is something simple, like a loose gas cap.

Easy Fix: Check Your Gas Cap

If you don’t screw your gas cap on tight, it can trigger the CEL. Check your gas cap and put it on tight if you find that it’s loose. It will take a little while for the light to turn off. If it does, you probably fixed the problem. Count yourself lucky.

Problems That Can Trigger The Check Engine Light

If it’s not the gas cap, there are other possibilities:

• Engine misfire that could overheat the catalytic converter
• Oxygen sensor (regulates the air/fuel mixture)
• Mass airflow sensor
• Spark plugs

What if my CEL is on because my car’s emission system isn’t working?

Some drivers don’t want a repair bill if they are emitting a little extra pollution. (We aren’t here to shame anyone about their carbon footprint.) But this is shortsighted. When your emission system isn’t working, it is not an isolated problem. If ignored, the problem could turn out to be more expensive. It’s always better to investigate at the first sign of trouble.

Service Required Is Not The Same As Check Engine

These two warnings are often confused. The service required alerts the driver that it’s time for scheduled maintenance. It doesn’t indicate that anything is malfunctioning. The Check Engine Light indicates a problem unrelated to scheduled maintenance. Keep in mind, however, that neglecting scheduled maintenance can create problems that could trigger the light.

Let’s talk about other important dashboard warning lights.

Battery

This lights up when the voltage level is below normal. The problem could lie with the battery terminals, alternator belt, or battery itself.

Coolant Temp Warning

This light is triggered by above-normal temperatures. It could mean the coolant is too low, there is a leak in the system, or the fan isn’t working.

Transmission Temperature

This could be related to a coolant issue. Check both your transmission fluid and coolant.

Oil Pressure Warning

Oil pressure is a big deal. Check your oil level ASAP. If you don’t know how to check your oil, consult your owner’s manual or stop by Chapel Hill Tire for an oil change today.

Airbag Fault

A problem with the airbag system requires a professional. This isn’t something you should attempt to fix on your own.

Brake System

This can be triggered by low brake fluid, leaving the parking brake on, or brake malfunction.

Traction Control/ESP Electronic Stability

When the anti-lock brake system detects a problem, this light comes on. Your braking system is not something to ignore.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems have saved countless lives by preventing tire-related accidents. They have also made car maintenance a lot easier. Because of this nifty tool, many young drivers don’t know how to check their tire pressure the old fashioned way. It wasn’t a standard feature on American cars until it was mandated in 2007. Newer systems give you a real-time report of the exact pressure levels. Older systems light up if the pressure in a tire falls below 75% of the recommended level. If your system only tells if when the pressure drops, it’s still a good idea to check your tire pressure regularly. Or let our tire service experts do it for you.

Reduced Power Warning

When the computer detects this, there are numerous possibilities. Your Chapel Hill Tire service technician has professional diagnostic tools to pinpoint the problem.

Security Alert

If the ignition switch is locked, this may flash for a second until it resolves. If you can turn the car on but it stays lit, there may be a problem with the security system.

Warnings For Diesel Vehicles

Glow Plugs

If you borrow your friend’s diesel car or truck, he or she should explain how to start it. Diesel engines have glow plugs that need to warm up before you fire up the engine. To do this, you turn the key partway and wait for the glow plug dashboard light to go off. When it turns off, it is safe to start the engine.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

This indicates a problem with the diesel exhaust particulate filter.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Check the level of the diesel exhaust fluid.

Chapel Hill Tire Diagnostic Service

Did you know that one out of ten vehicles in operation has the CEL on? We hope your vehicle is not one of them. Let us take care of the problem. Visit our locations page to find a service center near you or request an appointment with our experts today!

Answering Your Vehicle Battery Questions

Rechargeable batteries are a marvel of engineering. The lead-acid battery used in gasoline-powered vehicles has been around since the earliest automobiles. It hasn’t changed very much since then. Since the 1970s, car batteries have been largely maintenance-free.

A car battery can last up to seven years. It allows you to start your engine thousands of times, without even thinking about it. But eventually, the battery can’t hold enough charge to start the motor.

At Chapel Hill Tire, our customers often ask “When should I replace my car battery?”

Before we answer that question, let’s go over battery basics.

Your Battery Is Recharged As You Drive

Unlike other parts, your battery will last longer if you drive daily. This is because driving regularly keeps the battery charged. When a car sits, the battery degrades because it isn’t recharged.

Another thing that may seem counterintuitive is the fact that car batteries last longer in colder climates. Huh? Doesn’t cold starting put a significant demand on a battery? Yes, it does. But sitting in hot weather is even worse.

Here is the science behind the process:

Let’s visit the inside of a battery. An SLI (starting, lighting, ignition) battery is constructed of six cells. Each cell has both a lead plate and a lead dioxide plate. The plates are coated with sulphuric acid that works as a catalyst.

The acid causes the dioxide plate to generate ions and lead sulfate. The ions react to the lead plate and release hydrogen and additional lead sulfate. This reaction generates electrons. This produces electricity.

This process allows the battery to perform the miracle of holding a charge, discharging the electricity, and then recharging itself.

Viola! Your car starts up with a roar. You open your sunroof, crank up the radio, and hit the road.

Why It’s Not Good For A Battery To Sit

If you don’t continually drive your car and fully recharge the battery, it sits in a partially charged state. The crystals start to harden on the lead plates. When this happens, the portion of the lead plate covered by the hardened crystals can’t store electricity anymore. Over time, total battery capacity diminishes until the battery can no longer hold a charge and must be replaced.

If ignored, 70% of batteries will die within four years! A consistent charging and regular driving schedule will extend your battery life.

If My Car Won’t Start…

It usually happens when you are late to work. You try to start your car, but the engine won’t turn over. Does this mean you need to replace your battery?

Not necessarily.

There are other parts in your electrical system. (The shinbone’s connected to the knee bone…) Your alternator spins and creates electricity to charge the battery. If your alternator stops working, we can fix you up with a new one.

Another possibility is that it’s not spinning properly because there are issues with the serpentine belt or belt tensioner. The serpentine belt, not surprisingly, twists through your motor like a snake. The serpentine belt is powered by the engine. The serpentine belt runs many things and one of them is the alternator. The aptly-named belt tensioner regulates tension on the serpentine belt. If it’s working properly, it creates the right amount of traction to keep the alternator turning at the correct speed. The upshot? If your car won’t start, give us a call. It might be your battery or something else.

When Should I Replace My Car Battery?

At Chapel Hill Tire, we can test your battery to see how much charge it can hold. This will give you an idea of long it will last. We will also advise you on using a battery charger if you don’t drive regularly. Let us help you extend the life of your battery.

A car battery is a major purchase. It’s not like replacing the AAA’s in your TV remote. When it’s time for a new one, we can help you make the best choice. This depends on your budget, vehicle type, and driving habits.

Do You Drive A Hybrid?

Chapel Hill Tire specializes in hybrid car service. In fact, we are the Triangle’s only independent certified hybrid repair center. We provide comprehensive hybrid maintenance and repair—including hybrid battery replacement. (This is something you definitely don’t want to do on your own.)

Our hybrid services come with the same 3-year/36,000 mile warranty, as well as all of our other vehicle services. If you compare that to your dealership service warranty you’ll understand why we are the smart choice for hybrid drivers.

Let’s get back to our original question: ‘When should I replace my battery?’ Since there are so many variables involved, just give your nearest Chapel Hill Tire location a call. Our experts will provide insight and guidance into the cadence of your car battery replacement! We look forward to serving your battery needs.

How to Keep Your Car’s AC Working

Modern life has spoiled most of us. We’re used to traveling around with adjustable seats, auto-everything, and GPS so we never get lost. We also expect a cooling system we can set to the precise temperature for maximum comfort.

Your car AC is one of those things you take for granted. That is until it dies during the heat of the North Carolina summer. Then you realize how much you appreciate it.

You can ignore your car’s AC system until it stops working. Hopefully, this doesn’t occur on a road trip far from your trusted local repair shop.

Or you can schedule regular AC recharge services. Once every year or two is probably sufficient. Spring is a good time to do this.

We advise you to schedule an AC recharge before your unit stops blowing cold air entirely. If you notice that the air coming out of your vents is not quite as brisk, give us a call.

How Does Your Car’s AC System Work?

Before we answer the question ‘what is an AC recharge,’ let’s briefly describe how electric air conditioning works.

An auto air conditioning unit is a ‘closed-loop’ system. This simply means that there is no starting point or ending point. The refrigerant goes around and around. If your system has no leaks, it works great. The refrigerant doesn’t need to be ‘topped-off.’

Car air conditioning systems contain these five parts: a compressor, a condenser, a thermal expansion valve, an evaporator, and an accumulator (or receiver/drier).

The AC Compressor

The compressor pushes the refrigerant through the system at high pressure. The refrigerant turns from liquid to gas form when it is subjected to high pressure. This process pushes the gas to high temperatures as it pulls heat from the surrounding air.

Refrigerant has a very low boiling point. If you remember your high school science class, you remember that water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, R-134a car AC refrigerant boils at minus 15 degrees.

When the refrigerant starts boiling—thereby turning into a gas—it absorbs heat. This is how it cools the air down in your car.

But now that the refrigerant is in gas form, we need to turn it back into liquid so the process can continue. That’s what the compressor does.

The Car AC Condenser

The condenser works like a radiator and cools the refrigerant. As the gas cools down, it turns back into a liquid.

The AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube

Now that the refrigerant (which is liquid at this point) moves through the tubing to a small valve. The valve tightly regulates the flow of refrigerant and lowers the pressure. In the process, the liquid refrigerant is turned back into a gas, though at much lower pressure than before.

The AC Evaporator

The next stop for the cold refrigerant is the evaporator which lives in your dashboard. The evaporator turns the liquid back into a gas which cools the surrounding air. An electric fan blows the cold air through the vents and into the cabin, thereby keeping your ice cream from melting.

The Accumulator or Receiver/Drier

Automotive air conditioning units also pull the humidity out of the air. This is a welcome feature in humid climates like ours. Your system has either an accumulator or receiver/drier to perform this function.

What If I Can’t De-Fog My Windows In Cold Weather?

Because AC units work so well at de-humidifying, most automobiles use the AC system to de-fog windows. If your system can’t clear your windows during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an AC recharge.

What Is An AC Recharge?

AC systems perform best when the refrigerant is at the recommended level. There isn’t a lot of wiggle room here.

Before your refrigerant is replaced, your service technician will test the unit. An ultraviolet dye will be injected into the system. This allows your technician to detect any leaks that are present.

Your technician will also test or inspect the other system parts previously discussed.

For the recharge part of the service, your technician will attach a special machine to your air conditioning unit. The machine will suck out the existing refrigerant and oil. Then they will refill it to the right level.

Wasn’t Freon Outlawed Years Ago?

Older drivers may remember that the Environmental Protection Agency outlawed Freon because it dissolves the ozone layer. The type banned (in 1994, by the way) was R-12 Freon. Air conditioning systems manufactured since then use R-134a Freon. If you drive a car built before 1994, you can retrofit your AC for the legal refrigerant. Talk to us if you need more information about AC retrofits.

Chapel Hill Tire AC Repair

If any parts, hoses, or belts are malfunctioning, your technician will replace them with quality equipment. Your service advisor will also check for blockages that reduce cooling function. Our 3-year/36k maintenance warranty gives you peace of mind.

Where Can You Get an AC Recharge?

The Chapel Hill Tire AC recharge is available at all eight of our Triangle-area locations. This includes AC service in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Carrboro, and Durham. No matter where you find yourself in the NC Triangle, the Chapel Hill Tire professionals can help you get your car’s AC working like new. Bring your car into your local Chapel Hill Tire location for a quick and efficient AC recharge.

Keep Your Cool With Chapel Hill Tire Air Conditioning Service

The next time you feel a refreshing blast of cool air coming from your vent, you can thank Willis Carrier, the inventor of electrical air conditioning.

The next time you need an automotive AC service, you can rely on Chapel Hill Tire for providing timely, quality work at a fair price. Give us a call today to learn more, or make an appointment to come get an AC recharge.

Thanks for visiting the Chapel Hill Tire blog. Today’s post answers a question we hear quite often: “What happens when you don’t get an oil change?”

We know life gets busy and it’s hard to prioritize all the ‘gotta do’s.’ Work deadlines. Family responsibilities. Dental appointments. Home maintenance. (Did I forget to replace the furnace filter?)

When you can’t keep all the balls in the air, is it really that bad to wait a few more months to get an oil change?

Even if you have no mechanical knowledge, you probably suspect that it’s not a good idea to put off your regularly scheduled oil changes. Let’s explore why.

What happens when you don’t get an oil change?

First, let’s discuss what oil does in your engine. You may have heard that ‘oil is the lifeblood of your motor.’ This isn’t hyperbole; your engine couldn’t run without oil.

To continue the blood analogy further: just like blood, oil circulates through the motor. It enables the parts to perform their specific functions. It brings the necessary substances to the parts. This allows the entire system to work in harmony.

The most important thing oil does is to provide lubrication. When parts aren’t lubricated they create heat. Too much heat is a problem.

What happens when metal grinds on metal with no oil to provide lubrication and dissipate the heat? It’s not pretty. Eventually, the parts actually melt and weld to each other. This is called amalgamation. In an engine, it’s called seizing. If you think that sounds expensive to fix, you are right. You may need to replace the entire motor. Ka-ching!

Why do I need to replace my oil if I have enough? Can’t I just add more?

Now we’ve established why oil is critical. Your engine can’t run without it. But why do you have to replace it periodically if you have enough in there? Can’t you just add more?

As the oil makes its journey through your engine it passes over and through thousands of parts. It picks up fragments of metal, grit, and dirt. It also picks up soot. (Hence the combustion part of the internal combustion.)

Your oil filter does a great job of trapping these particles. It allows your engine to run for thousands of miles between oil changes. Eventually, however, the filter gets clogged with debris. It reaches the end of its useful life. Just like the furnace filter mentioned previously.

Motor oils have additives that improve their effectiveness. When oil gets dirty, it also compromises the additives. These include agents that prevent corrosion and anti-foam compounds. These additives don’t have an unlimited lifespan either.

How often should I change my oil?

Many North Carolina drivers are confused about this question. Auto manufacturers’ recommendations vary, but most agree that the old rule—every 3,000 miles—doesn’t apply to newer cars. This is due to improvements in materials and manufacturing.

Consult your owner’s manual for service interval guidelines for more exact oil change scheduling. While you’re at it, check which type of oil is recommended for your vehicle. Using the right type of oil is key. Your manufacturer may recommend synthetic oil. It’s important to follow the guidelines. Using the wrong kind could harm your engine. At the very least, it could void your warranty.

What are the benefits of getting my oil changed when I am supposed to?

• It will keep your engine clean and extend its life
• You will prevent unnecessary engine damage
• You will get better fuel economy
• You will pass your emissions test
• Your car will not release as much pollution (pat yourself on the back for being environmentally conscious)
• Your car will run better
• You will protect your investment
• You can prevent more costly damage from occurring

There might be something going on with your car that requires more frequent service. Even if you got your oil changed recently, don’t ignore warning signs. They could indicate a problem with your fluids or something else. You could have a leak.

What are the warning signs that my oil needs to be changed?

• Ticking or knocking noises
• Oil pressure light
• Oil level warning light
• Check engine light (this could indicate a number of other issues as well)
• You check your oil the old-fashioned way and it looks like thick Coke
• The little reminder sticker on your window
• Change in vehicle performance
• You can’t remember the last time you changed it

Let the Team at Chapel Hill Tire Keep You On Track

In addition to your motor oil, you need to replace all the other fluids in your car. That’s a lot to keep track of. Take a look at our oil change services or give us a call to talk to a service advisor at Chapel Hill Tire. We would be happy to set up a maintenance schedule. Let us worry about oil viscosity and service intervals.

It’s one more way we make life easier for our valued customers.

Every car owner has to deal with this question at some point: what kind of tires should I buy? It seems like there are more types of specialized tires now than ever before. The fact that there are so many choices doesn’t make it any easier. So what is the right tire for your car?

The answer depends on several factors:

• What type of vehicle do you drive?
• What are the driving conditions where you live or travel?
• How do like your car to handle? (Maybe you didn’t even know you had a choice in the matter…)

What kind of tires should I buy?

Let’s discuss the different types of tires available.

All-Season Tires

All-season tires are aptly named: they work well in all types of driving conditions. Because of their deeper tread depth, they often last longer than summer tires. You can get all-season tires for any type of car.

An important advantage of all-season tires is the fact that you can leave them on your car year-round. You can put them on and not worry about them too much. (Of course, you need to get new all-season tires when they wear out.)

Are All-Season Tires Safe In Wintry Conditions?

If your all-season tires say M+S on the side, it means the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association (RMA) rates them for use in mud and snow. Tire manufacturers rate all-season tires for “light” snow. That term is a bit subjective, but we recommend erring on the side of caution. Also, notice that M+S doesn’t say anything about ice.

Winter Tires

Winter tires have a deeper tread depth than both all-season and summer tires. They also have different tread patterns that improve traction. In addition, the rubber is engineered to stay softer and more flexible in cold temperatures.

Studded Snow Tires

Some winter tires can be ordered with studs for extra traction. If you live where there is heavy snow but don’t want to drive a 4-wheel-drive, consider studded tires in the winter months. They will allow you to climb snow-packed hills and stop on ice. A front-wheel-drive vehicle with studded tires is a good winter solution for many drivers.

Be aware that you need to pay attention to the patchwork of laws that regulate the use of studded tires. Some states allow drivers to use studded tires during the winter months. In other places, they are banned throughout the year. A few states even have laws that differ by county. Currently, there are no restrictions on studded tires in North Carolina. Make sure you understand the laws in the states you visit or travel through.

Should You Swap Your All-Season Tires For Snow Tires?

In the fall, you may wonder if you should change to a tire designed for more extreme winter conditions. If you are going to be driving in heavy snow, you should consider snow tires, also called winter tires. Your service advisor can discuss this with you in-depth.

Summer Tires

Summer tires are built for high performance driving in mild conditions. They are designed for rain but not for snow. North Carolina sports car drivers often pick summer tires. Summer tires are grippy and responsive in handling.

What If I Have The Wrong Tires For The Season?

While driving with winter tires in the summer isn’t recommended, the opposite is more dangerous. It is worse to drive with summer tires in winter. If you are driving in ice, snow, or freezing temperatures, your tire choice is critical. We already discussed why all-seasons and summer tires aren’t the safest choice for heavy snow and ice.

Driving on snow tires in the summer creates other problems. Your car won’t handle like it’s supposed to. And winter tires wear out faster in the heat.

Specialty Tires

There are also sub-specialties in each of the tire categories we have discussed. These include high performance, passenger, and off-road.

Tire Brands 

At Chapel Hill Tire we pride ourselves on offering a wide variety of tire brands to fit every budget and every vehicle. If you are looking for new tires in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or Carrboro, Chapel Hill Tire has the best tires for you! See some of our popular brands below:

• Michelin
• Uniroyal
• Continental
• BFGoodrich 
• Toyo
• Cooper
• Nexen
• Kumho
• Nitto
• Goodyear
• And more!

Choosing The Right Tire Is Important

The type of tires you have on your vehicle influences your fuel efficiency, safety, and ease of driving. Tires are a big-ticket purchase for most people. Choosing the right tire for your vehicle, location, and driving habits ensures that you derive the maximum value from your tire purchase.

You can rely on the tire specialists at Chapel Hill Tire to help you choose wisely. With the Chapel Hill Tire Price Beat Guarantee, you can shop with the confidence that you are getting the lowest possible price on your new tires.

We have answers to the most common tire questions:

• When should I replace my tires?
• What size of tire do I need?
• Which tires are best suited for my automobile?
• How do I determine if I am getting the best value in tires?
• What do all the codes on the sidewall mean?

With mechanic locations in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, and Carrboro, you can access our professional tire help from across the Triangle. Use our tire shopping tool to find tires that fit your car or make an appointment today. We look forward to helping you find the right new tires for you here at Chapel Hill Tire!

Remember when you were a kid and the family piled into the station wagon to go on a road trip? Somewhere near the Tennessee border your dad reached into the backseat to quiet down the kids, hit the shoulder, and busted a tire. As he fixed it, traffic howling past, he told you to watch. He said, “One day you’ll need to know how to do this.’” But you were busy trying to catch a Minnesota plate to complete a three-in-a-row on license plate bingo, so you could beat your sister.

Flash forward to today, and you wish you had watched your father—because now you really need to know how to change a tire. You got a flat and that Minnesota tag of yesteryear isn’t helping at all. The professionals at Chapel Hill Tire are here to help with our quick guide on changing a tire.

What tools do I need to change a tire?

It’s always easier to do a job when you have the right tools. When it comes to changing a tire, there are a few things you need.

• You need a jack. Your vehicle came with a jack. It’s a simple device that you crank to raise your vehicle so you can remove the flat tire and put on a spare. One thing you may want to keep in mind: factory jacks are not the greatest. What your car comes with is the most basic of tools. If you want to purchase a more heavy-duty jack, or one that is easier to use, you can purchase one from $25 to $100. If you’re prone to hitting curbs and popping tires, a good jack might be a solid investment.
• You need a tire iron. Again, your car came with this. It’s used to loosen your tire’s lug nuts, the large screws that keep it attached to the wheel. One tip: Get the lug nuts started before you jack up the car, while it is still stable on the ground. Removing them can take some leverage and you don’t want to push your car off the jack. Some vehicles will have a key to unlock your lug nuts to prevent theft. Your owner’s manual will have specific instructions for your vehicle.
• You need a spare tire. This is the “donut” in your trunk. It is important to remember that spare tires are not rated like normal tires. You should not drive on them long or quickly. In fact, some people purchase a full-size spare, a tire just like those on your car. Whether or not this is right for you depends on your budget and if your trunk can accommodate a full-size tire. Trucks or SUVs often have space available for a full tire.

How do I change the tire?

• Pull over in a safe spot. Remember when your dad stopped on the side of the Interstate? Don’t do that. Get yourself to a safe place with limited traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
• Loosen the lug nuts. After you get all the tools out of your trunk, loosen the lug nuts. You don’t want to take them all the way off, but you want to get them started.
• Jack up your car. Consult your owner’s manual to see where you should put the jack. Every car is different. If you put it in the wrong place, it could hurt your vehicle…or, worse, collapse and hurt you. You want to raise the car until the tire is 6 inches off the ground.
• Replace the tire. Remove the bad tire and put on your spare. When you put on the new tire you want to tighten the lug nuts so the tire is in a proper position before lowering the vehicle.
• Lower the vehicle. Put the car back on the ground. Take your time and, even though you’re almost done, stay aware of your surroundings.
• Tighten lug nuts. When the car is on the ground, tighten the lug nuts all the way. The DMV recommends that you tighten 50% on one then move to the opposite lug nut (across the circle), and so on until all are tightened. When everything is as tight as you can get it, pack all your tools and the bad tire back up in your trunk.

When you first begin to drive on your tire replacement, take it slow to ensure that everything is in place. Your safety always comes first when it comes to matters on the road.

Your tire experts are here to help.

After you change a tire, contact your local Chapel Hill Tire location. We can give you an estimate on a new tire or see if the tire that went flat can be repaired. Again, we don’t want you driving around on a factory spare for long. It’s there to help you get to a safe location, not as a replacement for your regular tire. All you have to do is request an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire and we will get your vehicle back in working condition. With 7 locations around the Triangle, Chapel Hill Tire is poised to help you with all of your car care needs.