Category: Resource

As gas prices rise and EV charging stations become more accessible, electric vehicles increase in popularity. Unfortunately, the increased demand and limited supply have also made EV prices spike. As a result, drivers have started taking matters into their own hands—converting their gas-powered vehicles into electric. 

How Do Electric Vehicle Conversions Work?

There are a few different ways to convert a vehicle. However, the fundamentals are all the same:

• Initial Evaluation: First, an expert evaluates the car to ensure it is compatible with the EV conversion process. 
• Out With The Old: Next, they will remove the gas-powered engine and all of its supporting components. 
• In With The New: Then, mechanics begin installing the EV motor, battery, connectors, and adaptors. 
• New Accommodations: Depending on your vehicle, a few additional accommodations might be needed. For example, many car HVAC systems run on gas from the fuel system. In some cases, mechanics can connect this system to your battery. In other cases, you might need a new independent comfort system. 

How Much Do Vehicle Conversions Cost?

The cost of a vehicle conversion can vary starkly—with numbers ranging from a few thousand to well into six figures.

However, the actual cost of a vehicle conversion will depend on a variety of factors, including your car’s make, model, and the electric vehicle conversion equipment it requires. You can visit a local mechanic (like Chapel Hill Tire) for a custom estimate.

Can Any Gas-Powered Car be Converted into EV?

You might be wondering, “Can I turn just any car into an EV?” Technically, any vehicle could be converted; however, not every vehicle is well suited for this switch. The more suitable your car is for conversion, the easier and more affordable this project will be. Perhaps most importantly, the outcome will depend on your vehicle’s suitability. For example, would it be worth it to convert your vehicle if the end result had less than 100 miles of electric range? Here are a few examples of cars that are suitable for conversion:

• Automatic transmission: Manual transmissions often require gas power sources, as they would quickly drain your EV battery. Manual cars also have heavier engine components, like larger transmissions and axles, that will add weight and reduce your driving range. 
• Lightweight vehicles: Heavier vehicles will also require more power and will quickly drain out your EV battery. Lightweight yet sturdy vehicles will provide the best outcomes. 
• Plenty of space: Retrofitting a gas-powered car with an EV system will require some extra room. Before deciding on a vehicle conversion, it is good to do some research on how suitable your vehicle is for transformation.
• Older vehicles: The most straightforward and valuable EV conversions come from classic cars. These engines are much less complicated, making the conversion processes easier. At the end of the transformation, you have a fully re-engineered classic that can hit the road without breaking the bank. 

Gas to Electric Conversions: Is the Cost Worth It?

Vehicle conversions are changing the electric vehicle landscape. However, not everyone will find out the cost of vehicle conversion is worth it. Here are a few examples of EV conversions that are a good idea— and when you might opt to trade in your car for an EV instead.

Your Car Needs A New Engine: Worth It

So you’ve decided to replace your engine? Engine replacement can be costly, but if you’ve already decided on incurring these costs, you might as well upgrade to an electric vehicle system.

You Have an Older Vehicle Still in Good Shape: Likely Worth It

Whether you’re fixing up an old car for sentimental value, a hobby, or simply for the fun of it, electric vehicle conversion is an easy way to give new life to an old car. For classic cars or cars that hold sentimental value, the conversion process will undoubtedly be worth it. 

However, if the market value of your vehicle is low, you might not get your money back after the conversion process. This is why the conversion process is prevalent for classic cars. 

Additionally, if your vehicle is newer, engine issues can likely be covered under warranty. In these cases, it might be free to have your engine repaired instead of paying thousands to buy and retrofit an EV system. 

You’re Ready To Save Money On Gas: Potentially Worth It

Electric vehicle conversion can be a pretty penny, but it saves you money every time you get behind the wheel. On average, EV drivers can save close to $1,000 each year on gas. If you’re going to be driving your vehicle for a long time, the savings will certainly add up. However, you will likely need to drive your car for quite some time to make up the costs for even the most affordable EV conversions. 

Local EV Experts at Chapel Hill Tire

Our mechanics are always up to date with the latest vehicle practices. We are electric vehicle specialists, and we are willing to work with drivers on almost any project. 

We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our professional mechanics also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment, browse our coupons, or give us a call to get started today! 

It is that time of year again: yellow clouds of pollen collect on your vehicle everywhere you go. Not only is pollen an unsightly allergy irritant, but it can also damage your vehicle. Thankfully, local car wash and detailing services can protect your car and keep you Driving Happy™. The mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here to unpack five reasons car wash and detailing services are vital during the pollen season. 

1) Saving Your Paint Job from Pollen

Have you ever wondered why pollen doesn’t fall off your vehicle as you drive? We see pollen as fluffy yellow powder blanketing our cars like snow. However, under a microscope, you will see pollen grains covered in abrasive spikes—as seen in the 3d rendered image below. These spikes serve an essential purpose: helping the particles stick to pollinators as they travel to flowery destinations. Unfortunately, these small spikes also help the pollen dig into your paint job and adhere to the surface of your car. 

So, can pollen damage your car’s paint job? The short answer is yes. The longer each grain of pollen spends digging into car paint, the more exposed your coating will be to oxidation and rust.

It is crucial to get the pollen off of your vehicle as soon as possible. However, it is also essential to wash pollen off carefully. Scraping it off dry can be abrasive to your car paint—doing more harm than good. 

Drive-through car washes can also be an abrasive way to remove pollen—especially as the brushes wear out over time. Additionally, these machines can not thoroughly clean your vehicle—leaving pollen sitting on some of the most vulnerable surfaces of your car. 

Having a professional wash your car by hand will ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned, dried, and protected from the harm of pollen. Perhaps most importantly, the finishing polish included in some car detailing packages can prevent pollen latching while also providing a buffer between your paint and the pollen on the surface of your vehicle. 

2) Protecting Your Car’s HVAC

Inside your cabin, your air conditioner circulates a cold airflow to keep you comfortable. This time of year, pollen particles can start to clog up your cabin air filter. Not only does this put your air quality at risk, but it can also damage your car’s HVAC system. As it overworks to force air through a blocked filter, the most common side effect is a refrigerant leak.

While you might think a quick and straightforward coolant top-off can solve refrigerant leaking troubles, it is a much larger issue than drivers expect. Why? Your refrigerant (or coolant) circulates within a sealed system. So, if you encounter a leak, there’s almost always a crack or break requiring more extensive repairs.

Car detailing services can prevent clogged air filters by removing the extra pollen circulating inside your car. Whether you bring your vehicle to Chapel Hill Tire or we come to you, drivers can also have their air filters replaced during the car wash and detailing service appointment.

3) Breathing Cleaner Air As You Drive

The first site of pollen is your cue that allergy season has begun. Breathing in pollen is almost inevitable when it is circulating through the air and sticking to every outdoor surface—especially your car. According to the CDC, allergic reactions to pollen are caused by your immune system thinking these particles are a threat. 

Car wash and detailing services can reduce the impacts of pollen allergies. The detailing element of the service is especially important, as it can limit your exposure in the enclosed cabin and minimize how much pollen you track into your home.

4) Improving Your Summer Gas Mileage

Your car is designed to be smooth, sleek, and cut through the air as you drive. Unfortunately, a coating of pollen can change the aerodynamics of your vehicle. Without a smooth surface, your car will face more wind resistance and lower gas mileage.

Admittedly, the fuel economy effects of pollen are minor, so you might not notice it on the road; however, every penny can make a difference when it comes to spring and summer traveling. After all, why spend more at the pump when you can save gas and drive a vehicle that feels clean inside and out? You can read more in our guide to 5 signs you need a car wash and detailing service.  

5) The Look and Feel of Your Car

It is important to enjoy your ride. When your car is covered in sticky and unsightly pollen, some drivers don’t feel like themselves. Car wash and detailing services can leave your car shining—helping you Drive Happy. While this principle applies to everyone, it is especially true for the car fanatics in your life—making a car detailing service the perfect birthday, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, anniversary, holiday, or “just because” gift. 

Local and Mobile Car Wash + Detailing Services

Chapel Hill Tire’s new car wash and detailing services are helping drivers through the pollen season. You can add a detailing package to any service appointment, or we can come to you! With our mobile detailing service, we will visit your home or office in any service area, including Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Apex, Cary, Durham, Carrboro, Knightdale, Morrisville, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, and beyond. With four amazing packages and countless add-ons to choose from, you are guaranteed to get the service you need to Drive Happy. 

Our mobile detailing service is only available to book through our Apple or Android app. Download the app, book your appointment, and Drive Happy today with Chapel Hill Tire.

Here at Chapel Hill Tire, we continually innovate our business to serve our customers better. In alignment with these efforts, we are proud to officially announce our newest service: mobile car wash and detailing. 

Our latest offering makes it easier than ever to access industry-leading detailing services. We invite you to read more about mobile car wash and detailing services below.

A Guide to Mobile Detailing

You might be wondering, “What is mobile detailing?” Essentially, mobile detailing is the same excellent car wash and detailing packages our drivers have quickly come to love—with the added bonus that our detailing experts will come to you! We bring our supplies to your home, work, or office to complete world-class service.

Mobile Detailing FAQ

You might have some mobile car wash and detailing questions. Well, we have the answers you are looking for! Let’s take a look at some frequently asked customer questions. 

How Do I Book My Mobile Detailing Service?

Thankfully, booking a mobile car wash and detailing service is easy with the Chapel Hill Tire app. Here is a quick rundown of the scheduling process:

• First, download the app. Our mobile car wash and detailing service is only available through our Apple or Google/Android apps. 
• Next, you can check to see if we are available in your area—or jump right in by clicking “book now.”
• Then, select “my location” for mobile detailing, and enter the address you want our experts to visit. 
• From there, you can enter information about the vehicle you want to be serviced. 
• Next, choose the car wash and detailing package you would like to enjoy. We currently have four service packages: Drive Happy, Drive Happy & Shine, Drive Happy Detail, and Drive Happy Awesome Detail. 
• Then, you can add any upgrades you might like added to your service, such as pet hair removal, child car seat treatment, headlight restoration, and so much more!
• Finally, schedule your preferred time and date! 

You can continue using the app to pay for your service, view your appointments, chat with our experts, and find the answers to any questions. 

Roughly How Long Does Mobile Detailing Take?

Your appointment can last anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on various factors, including your vehicle size, condition, interior, and the car wash/detailing package you choose. 

How Much Does Mobile Detailing Service Cost?

Chapel Hill Tire strives to make high-quality car care accessible. Our car wash and detailing experts will come to you for mobile service at no additional charge. The price will depend on the package you choose, along with any applicable upgrades and taxes. 

Should I Clean Out My Car for Detailing Service?

It is a good idea to clean out your car before your mobile detailing service. It is especially important to remove any valuables or personal items. This courtesy will ensure you get focused, superior service while helping your car feels like new after it is done. You can read more in our complete FAQ here. 

Chapel Hill Tire Mobile Detailing Service

Unlock the convenience of high-quality service at your doorstep. Our mobile detailing quality is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This service can help preserve the value of your vehicle while helping you Drive Happy™. So, what are you waiting for? 

Our car wash and detailing experts serve the greater Triangle area through our 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our mobile car wash and detailers also visit nearby cities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment in the app to get started today! 

It is never fun to jump behind the wheel and find that your car won’t start. To make matters worse, many instructions on jump-starting do not provide any specifications or guidance specific to hybrid vehicles. So how do you jump-start a hybrid? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with a step-by-step guide. 

Step 1: Safety Checks

Before you dive in here, please note that jump-starting a car battery can be dangerous. Hybrid car batteries are expensive and powerful—requiring even more caution. Here are a few safety tips to help you get started:

• During this process, keep all children and pets away from the engine(s).
• Ensure you are in a safe location when jumping a car battery.
• Handle any connection to the battery with caution.

If you are unsure of your ability to maintain the highest level of safety, it is better to be safe than sorry. Consider having your car towed to a local mechanic for service in these cases. 

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Naturally, you will need some tools to help you along your jump-starting journey. There are two ways to jump-start a hybrid: 

• Using a jump-starting battery pack: You can jump-start your vehicle on your own using a jump-starting battery pack. If you go this route, you need a well-charged battery jump-starter. 
• Using jumper cables: You do not need to worry if you don’t have a battery pack! The traditional way of jump-starting a vehicle will require you to have jumper cables and a “donor” vehicle with a working, well-powered battery. 

For the sake of this article, we will assume drivers are using traditional jumper cables—though many steps are the same when using jump-starting packs. 

Step 3: Locate the Correct Battery

This step is the most significant difference between jump-starting a gas-powered vehicle and a hybrid. Hybrid cars have two batteries:

• One 12-volt that powers the vehicle like a standard car battery
• One high-powered battery that harnesses the power of regenerative braking to run an electric motor inside the vehicle—making it a hybrid

If your car won’t start, your traditional 12-volt battery is likely the source of these problems. So our next step in jump-starting your vehicle is to pop the hood and locate the correct car battery.

Every hybrid vehicle is different—however, most hybrid batteries are large and rectangular. Meanwhile, standard 12-V car batteries are smaller and boxier—think roughly the size of a child’s shoe box. 

So, where is my battery located? First, take a moment to examine your engine—in most vehicles, you should see your battery when you pop the hood. However, some hybrid cars take on a creative design. In these cases, you might find your battery under the cargo floor or in the trunk. 

Many batteries mark the location of the positive battery terminal. So, you can also look for a red plus (+) mark when searching for your battery. It is also helpful to check your owner’s manual for insight into your battery placement. 

Step 4: Position the Second Vehicle

Once you find your car battery, you can use this insight to position the donor vehicle. Move the two cars close together—roughly two feet apart. You will need to ensure the vehicles are close enough that the jumper cables can comfortably extend to both batteries simultaneously. At the same time, make sure the two cars are not touching each other. 

You should always jump from a battery of equal voltage. Most standard car batteries are 12-volt—but it is worth double-checking both car batteries before getting started. 

Step 5: Turn The Donor Vehicle Off

For safety reasons, both vehicles should be turned off when you get started. Presumably, your hybrid vehicle will already be off because the battery is dead. Make sure you also turn off the donor vehicle before hooking up the cables. 

Step 6: Positive to Positive

First, you will connect both positive (often red) cable clamps to the positive battery terminals. Again, these are often marked by a plus (+) sign. Start by connecting the dead battery, then move to the functioning battery. Make sure the clamp firmly attaches to the terminal.

Step 7: Negative to Ground and Negative to Negative

Read this step twice, as it is vitally important. 

First, connect the negative to ground for the dead car battery. In other words, clamp the negative (often black) cable to an unpainted metal surface in your vehicle—usually the car frame (or chassis). Do not connect it to the negative battery terminal.

Next, connect the negative (-) clamp to the functioning car battery’s negative (-) terminal. Again, avoid any tugging or pulling of the cable. If it cannot comfortably reach, the cars are too far away. 

Why not connect to the negative battery terminal of the dead car battery? When a car battery charges, it can release hydrogen gas (which is why this only matters for the dead car battery). Any tiny spark from the jump-starting process can ignite the hydrogen gas, causing a dangerous explosion. This hazard commonly occurs as drivers remove the cables. You can remove the negative cable without risking a spark if it is connected to the grounded metal instead of the battery. Moreover, once you remove the ground cable, you break the connection—substantially reducing any chance of sparking. 

Step 8: Start the Functioning Vehicle

Now it is time to start charging your battery. Turn on the functioning vehicle so that it can begin transferring a charge. It might take several minutes to charge, though revving the donor vehicle’s engine a few times can help speed up this process. 

Step 9: Try Starting Your Engine

After a few minutes, try starting up your hybrid vehicle. If it doesn’t work, give it a little more time before you try again.

If your battery still doesn’t start after a few tries, you likely have a deeper vehicle issue that requires a tow. There is also a chance that the cables are not properly set up or working. You can troubleshoot this issue by trying with a different donor vehicle or a different set of cables. You can also call a local mechanic to talk through your connection and ensure everything is set up correctly.

Step 10: Carefully Disconnect the Cables

Once your vehicle is running, disconnect the cables in the reverse order of connection:

• First, disconnect the ground cable clamp
• Next, remove the negative clamp from the donor battery
• Then, disconnect the positive clamp from your car battery
• Finally, remove the positive clamp from the donor battery

Step 11: Take Your Vehicle For a Spin

Jump-starting a car is quite an adventure! You are probably eager to drive straight home and take a break. You might also be anxious to get to school, work, or onto your next adventure. However, we recommend taking the scenic route to wherever you are going. Your alternator recharges your battery as you drive. The longer you drive, the less likely you will have to do this all over again the next time you get behind the wheel. 

In many cases, a jump-started boost will not last long—even with a health charge from your alternator. So try to visit your local mechanic as soon as conveniently possible. Here is our complete guide on when to replace your dead car battery. 

Hybrid Car Care at Chapel Hill Tire

Hybrid vehicles are one of our many specialties here at Chapel Hill Tire. In fact, all of our extended service free loaner cars are hybrids. So you know your vehicle is in good hands when you bring it to our local mechanics. Our experts proudly offer hybrid battery maintenance and replacement services. 

Chapel Hill Tire proudly serves the hybrid car care needs of the greater Triangle area through our ten esteemed locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!

When you trust a mechanic with your vehicle, how do you know you’re getting quality care? One marker of trusted quality is Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.

Our local mechanics are here with everything you need to know about the vital role ASE certifications play within the auto industry. 

What is ASE Certification?

In short, an ASE Certificate is documentation from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence affirming that a car care specialist is knowledgeable and trained in high-quality service. 

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and maintaining quality car service within the industry. The organization has been educating, testing, and certifying automotive professionals since 1972. 

Why is ASE Certification Important?

So, why does ASE certification matter? There are several positive implications of this program that make it vital for mechanics and service technicians. 

1) Providing Mechanic Service Quality Regulation

At the time of publication—licensing, training, and certification requirements for mechanics vary by state. In other words, there are currently no universal legal standards for technicians in the United States. Therefore, ASE certification provides a vital widespread regulation for mechanic service quality. 

In the state of North Carolina specifically, mechanics currently do not need a license to complete any vehicle repairs or maintenance services. The only mechanic licensing requirements are for completing safety and emissions inspections. 

In other words, almost anybody can call themselves a mechanic, take your money, and work on your vehicle. However, vehicle repairs require careful consideration, experience, knowledge, and training. You know you are in good hands when you confirm your technician is ASE certified. 

2) Training, Knowledge, and Experience

Your mechanics are put to the test to get ASE certified. This process tests the comprehensive knowledge of everything from engine repair to brakes, transmissions, maintenance, vehicle lighting repairs, suspension systems, and everything in between.

In addition to formal testing, ASE certification requires hands-on training and experience. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence will ensure mechanics are qualified to work on your vehicle before they complete any solo repairs. 

3) Staying Up-To-Date in the Auto Industry

The auto repair industry is constantly evolving to keep up with best practices, the latest environmental protections, and new vehicle features. For example, the last few years have seen several changes and challenges, including:

• Beginning in 2022, all vehicles manufactured in the US switched from R134a to R1234YF freon—requiring new attachments and insights. 
• The rise of Tesla vehicles has presented some unique service challenges, including foam tire interior that gets in the way of patching and a vulnerability to curb rash. 
• Newer hybrid and electric vehicles require unique parts, service insights, and experience. 
• The pandemic created a number of vehicle problems—including a rise in catalytic converter theft. 

To ensure mechanics stay up-to-date, ASE requires certification renewals every five years. 

Chapel Hill Tire: High-Quality Mechanic Care Near Me

Chapel Hill Tire maintains ASE certification for all of our technicians and mechanics. This practice is just one of the ways we ensure our service is industry-leading and high-quality for our customers. 

Our ASE-certified mechanics proudly serve 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Chapel Hill Tire’s experts also commonly serve surrounding communities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We welcome you to make an online appointment or give us a call to get started today! 

Car care has long been associated with inconvenient scheduling, long wait times, and dreaded hours spent in a stuffy mechanic lobby. However, new mechanic offerings make vehicle service truly effortless. 

The local technicians at Chapel Hill Tire are here to unpack six mechanic services all drivers need.

Pick-Up and Delivery Mechanic Services

Drivers used to plan their whole days around visiting a mechanic for service. But, thanks to the latest car care conveniences, you can now have your car fully tuned without lifting a finger. 

Pick-up and delivery services operate just as the name suggests. A professional will pick up your vehicle—from wherever you are within the service area—and bring it back to the shop for repairs or maintenance. 

Once your vehicle is ready, a delivery expert will bring it back to your work, home, or anywhere within their service range. This convenience has revolutionized car care for busy parents, working professionals, and college students.

While your car needs to be in drivable condition to qualify for pick-up and delivery service, it has also been helpful for newer drivers who may feel uncomfortable operating a vehicle in need of care.

Mobile and Flexible Payments

Changes in the payment industry are innovated for a reason—the most common motivations being security and convenience. For example, mobile wallets (like Apple Pay) allow users to sync their payment methods with their cell phones. 

While they certainly are not for everyone, some users depend on these newer innovations. But what good are new payment methods if shops don’t accept them?

At times, it seems that the mechanic industry has trouble making accommodations. More traditional mechanic locations may not accept newer forms of payment. This lapse can cause inconvenience for drivers. To access a higher level of care, visit a mechanic that keeps up with the latest payment methods—like Chapel Hill Tire.

All-In-One Service Visits

Accessing high-quality car care can feel like a wild goose chase without the right provider. Do you have to visit a mechanic, an inspection center, a tire shop, and an automotive repair center to get your car the service it needs?

The easiest way to access convenient car care is to find a mechanic that offers it all by maintaining comprehensive service specialties. At Chapel Hill Tire, you can have your oil changed, your tires replaced, your vehicle inspected, and your car washed/detailed in a single visit. Our wide variety of service areas makes it easy for drivers to get the high-quality care they need without running around.

Same-Day or Next-Day Mechanic Appointments

When your car needs service, you can’t afford to wait. Putting off valuable car care leads to more costly and severe damage. However, scheduling delays are the reality for many dealership service departments and overrun mechanic locations. To access the care you need, when you need it, find a mechanic offering same-day or next-day appointments.

Shuttle Services for Mechanic Appointments

Shuttle services make it easy to access high-quality car care without spending your days in a shop lobby. After you drop off your car for service, your shuttle driver will bring you where you need to go—whether it’s home, work, or a nearby shopping center. Then, once your vehicle is ready, they will pick you back up. 

To get started, simply select the free shuttle option when scheduling your appointment. It is just that easy. 

Free Loaner Cars for Extended Services

Have you ever received the dreaded news that your car needs extensive service? Many drivers panic, wondering what they will do without their vehicles overnight. You can skip the stress and inconvenience when partnering with a mechanic network that has in-house loaner cars. In these cases, your mechanic will give you a car to borrow for free while they repair your vehicle.

Convenient Car Care at Chapel Hill Tire

The local mechanics of Chapel Hill Tire do their part to keep up with the latest conveniences. We offer all the above services, and Chapel Hill Tire’s experts continually update our offerings to support your needs. 

We proudly serve the greater Triangle with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. Our car care specialists also serve nearby cities, including Knightdale, Pittsboro, Wake Forest, Hillsborough, Morrisville, and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment or give us a call to get started today!