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How Often Should a Vehicle Be Serviced in Calgary

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Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures your safety and the safety of your passengers. By performing routine maintenance, you minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns or malfunctions while driving, which can lead to accidents or roadside emergencies.

Additionally, regular maintenance helps prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. By identifying and addressing potential issues early on, you can save yourself from costly repairs down the line. Moreover, well-maintained vehicles tend to have better fuel efficiency, reducing your overall fuel costs and environmental impact.

Why Regular Vehicle Maintenance Matters

Proper vehicle maintenance is crucial to keep your car running smoothly and avoid potential issues down the road. Regular maintenance not only helps to identify and fix minor problems early on but also ensures the longevity of various components and systems within your vehicle. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even safety hazards. By following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can maximize your vehicle’s lifespan and maintain its value over time.

Importance of Oil Changes

One of the most critical maintenance tasks for your vehicle is a regular oil change in Calgary. Engine oil plays a vital role in lubricating the engine’s moving parts, reducing friction, and dissipating heat. Over time, the oil breaks down and becomes less effective, potentially leading to engine damage. To ensure optimal engine performance and longevity, it is recommended to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Tire Maintenance for Safety and Performance

Proper tire maintenance is essential not only for your safety but also for optimal vehicle performance. Inspecting tires for wear, checking the tire pressure, and ensuring proper wheel alignment are crucial. Underinflated or worn-out tires can affect handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. It is recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month and have your tires rotated every 10,000 to 15,000 km to promote even wear. Also, change tires during winter and summer.

Brake System Inspection and Maintenance

Your vehicle’s braking system is a critical component for both safety and performance. Regular brake inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure optimal stopping power and prevent potential accidents. Have your brakes inspected by a qualified technician annually or as recommended by the manufacturer. Signs of brake issues include squeaking or grinding noises, vibrations, or a mushy brake pedal. Addressing these concerns promptly can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Role of Fluid Checks and Replacements

Proper maintenance includes regular checks and replacements of various fluids in your vehicle. These fluids include coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Each fluid has a specific purpose and requires periodic inspection and, if necessary, replacement. Neglecting fluid maintenance can lead to overheating, decreased performance, and even engine failure. Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual or consult with a professional technician to determine the appropriate intervals for fluid checks and replacements.

Maintaining a Healthy Battery

A well-functioning battery is crucial for starting your vehicle reliably. To maintain a healthy battery, it is essential to keep it clean, secure, and free of corrosion. Regularly inspect the battery terminals and cables for any signs of damage or buildup. Additionally, ensure that your battery is charging properly by monitoring the voltage regularly. If your battery is older or experiencing issues, consider having it tested or replaced to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Importance of Regular Filter Replacements

Filters play a significant role in maintaining the cleanliness and efficiency of various systems in your vehicle. Regularly replacing the engine air filter, cabin air filter, and fuel filter is essential to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential damage. A clogged air filter can reduce fuel efficiency and cause engine problems, while a dirty cabin air filter can impair the air quality inside your vehicle. Consult your vehicle’s manual to determine the recommended intervals for filter replacements.

Significance of Scheduled Inspections

In addition to regular maintenance tasks, scheduling periodic inspections with a qualified technician is highly recommended. These inspections allow professionals to assess your vehicle’s overall condition, identify potential issues, and provide necessary recommendations. Scheduled inspections typically cover areas such as suspension, steering, exhaust system, and electrical components. By addressing minor concerns early on, you can prevent major breakdowns and ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

Conclusion

Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for preserving performance, safety, and longevity. By adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule, you can keep your vehicle in optimal condition, minimize unexpected repairs, and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience. Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner manual and seek professional assistance when needed. At Urban Lube Calgary, we are committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring your vehicle’s long-term health. Trust us with your maintenance needs, and we’ll help you make the most out of your investment.

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How to Check Your Car’s Tire Tread: Step-by-Step

How to Check Your Car’s Tire Tread: Step-by-Step

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As a responsible driver, you must always ensure that your vehicle is in good condition, and that includes checking your tires’ tread depth. Tire treads are the grooves on the surface of the tire that provide traction and help prevent hydroplaning. Over time, the tire tread will wear out, and it’s essential to check it regularly to avoid any mishaps on the road. In this blog, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process of checking your car’s tire tread and knowing when it’s time to replace your tires.

Understanding Tire Tread

Before we dive into how to check your car’s tire tread, let’s first understand what tire tread is. The tire tread is the rubber that makes contact with the road surface. It’s what provides traction and helps you maintain control of your car. Tire tread is designed to wear down over time, which is why it’s essential to check your tire tread regularly.

Why You Need to Check Your Tire Tread

As your tire tread wears down, it becomes less effective at providing traction on the road. This can make it more difficult to control your car, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Additionally, as your tire tread wears down, your chances of experiencing a blowout or a flat tire increase. By checking your tire tread regularly, you can catch any issues early and take action before they become a more significant problem.

Understanding Tire Tread Depth

Before we proceed, let’s understand what tire tread depth is and why it matters. Tread depth refers to the vertical measurement between the top of the tread rubber to the bottom of the tire’s deepest grooves. In the United States, the standard measurement for tire tread depth is 32nds of an inch. When your tire’s tread depth is too low, it can negatively affect your car’s braking, handling, and stability, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

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Checking Your Tire Tread with a Penny

One of the easiest ways to check your tire tread depth is by using a penny. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Get a penny and hold it so that Lincoln’s head is facing down.
  • Insert the penny into the tire tread grooves at various locations around the tire.
  • Observe Lincoln’s head and the wording “In God We Trust.” If the top of Lincoln’s head is always visible, your tire tread is too low, and it’s time to replace your tires.

Checking Your Tire Tread with a Tire Tread Depth Gauge

If you want to be more precise in measuring your tire tread depth, you can use a tire tread depth gauge. A tire tread depth gauge is a small tool that measures the distance between the top of the tread and the bottom of the tire’s grooves. Here’s how you can use it:

  • Place the probe of the tire tread depth gauge into the tire groove.
  • Hold the gauge perpendicular to the tire tread.
  • Observe the measurement and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommended minimum tread depth.

Understanding Tire Tread Wear Patterns

Aside from measuring the depth of your tire tread, you must also check for any unusual tire tread wear patterns. Tire tread wear patterns can indicate a problem with your car’s alignment, suspension, or tire pressure. Here are some common tire tread wear patterns and what they mean:

Center wear: If your tire’s tread is more worn in the center, it means you’ve been driving with over-inflated tires.

Edge wear: If your tire’s tread is more worn on the edges, it means you’ve been driving with under-inflated tires.

Cupping wear: If your tire’s tread has scalloped dips around the edge, it means there’s a problem with your car’s suspension.

Feathering wear: If your tire’s tread has smooth edges on one side and sharp edges on the other, it means there’s a problem with your car’s alignment.

When to Replace Your Tires

Now that you know how to check your tire tread, you must also know when it’s time to replace your tires. The general rule of thumb is to replace your tires when the tread depth is at 2/32 of an inch or less. However, some states have laws that require you to replace your tires when the tread depth is at 4/32 of an inch or less. It’s essential to check your local laws and regulations to avoid any penalties or fines.

Conclusion

Checking your car’s tire tread is an essential part of car maintenance. By regularly checking your tire tread, you can ensure that your tires are providing the traction you need to stay safe on the road. Remember, if your tire tread is too shallow, it’s time to replace your tires. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this blog, you can easily check your tire tread and keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road.

Ensure your car is ready with the right tires. Book an appointment for a tire change and installation from Urban Lube Calgary.

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When Should You Take Your Winter Tires Off?

Spring Car Service in Calgary: Tips and Recommendations

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Are you looking for tips to get your car ready for spring in Calgary? We know that winters in Calgary can be harsh, and your car may have taken a beating during the cold months. To ensure your vehicle runs smoothly, it’s essential to give it the proper care and attention it needs during the spring season. In this blog, we’ll give you some recommendations on how to prepare your car for the warmer months in Calgary.

Importance of Spring Car Maintenance

Spring is a crucial time to maintain your car’s health as it is recovering from the effects of winter. Your vehicle is designed to withstand cold temperatures, but the freezing weather can take its toll on various components of your car, including the battery, brakes, and tires. By following the right maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your vehicle and ensure it runs smoothly during the warmer months.

What Kinds of Things Are Done to My Car in a Spring Tuneup?

A spring tune-up for your car typically includes several maintenance tasks to prepare it for the warmer months ahead. These tasks may include checking the battery, inspecting brakes, changing oil, checking tire pressure and tread wear, replacing windshield wipers, inspecting suspension and steering components, and testing the air conditioning system. Additionally, thorough cleaning of the car, both inside and out, is often performed to remove any dirt or salt buildup from the winter months. These maintenance tasks will help ensure that your car is running smoothly and safely throughout the spring and summer seasons.

Will it Save Me Money?

Getting a spring tune-up for your car can save you money in the long run. By performing routine maintenance tasks, such as changing the oil, checking the brakes, and inspecting the tires, you can prevent more costly repairs down the road. Regular maintenance also helps ensure that your car is running efficiently, which can lead to better fuel economy and save you money on gas. Additionally, replacing worn-out parts, such as the windshield wipers or battery, can prevent breakdowns and the need for emergency repairs.

Tips for Spring Car Service in Calgary

Wash Your Car Thoroughly

Winter weather can leave your car covered in salt, dirt, and grime. A thorough car wash is essential to remove any residue that can cause rust or other damage. Be sure to clean the undercarriage and wheels as well.

Check Your Tires

The winter months can take a toll on your tires, so it’s crucial to check them for wear and tear. Check the tire pressure and make sure it’s at the manufacturer’s recommended level. If your tires are worn, it’s time to replace them.

Change Your Oil

Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining your car’s engine. If you haven’t had an oil change in a while, now is the time to do it. Fresh oil will help your engine run smoother and more efficiently.

Replace Your Wipers

Winter weather can also damage your windshield wipers. It’s essential to replace them before the spring showers start. New wipers will ensure you have a clear view of the road ahead.

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Check Your Brakes

Brakes are one of the most crucial safety features of your car. If you hear any grinding or squeaking noises when you apply the brakes, it’s time to have them inspected. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

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 Test Your Battery

Cold temperatures can drain your car’s battery quickly. Before the spring weather arrives, test your battery to ensure it’s holding a charge. If it’s not, it’s time to replace it.

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Check Your Air Conditioning

As the temperatures start to rise, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioning is working correctly. Turn it on and let it run for a few minutes to make sure it’s blowing cold air.

Check Your Fluids

Finally, check all of your car’s fluids, including the transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Top off any that are low and have them replaced if they’re dirty.

Benefits of Spring Car Service

By performing spring car maintenance, you can enjoy the following benefits:

  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Increased safety on the road
  • Extended vehicle life
  • Avoid costly repairs

Conclusion

Getting your car ready for spring in Calgary is essential to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly during the warmer months. By following these tips, you can keep your car in good condition and avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your vehicle and ensuring your safety on the road.

Urban Lube is the one-stop solution for oil change, tire change, fleet maintenance, battery boost, and much more.

Book your appointment now!

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What Should My Tire Pressure Be in Cold Weather?

What Should My Tire Pressure Be in Winter?

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Tire pressure is a crucial factor that affects vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. Maintaining the right tire pressure is even more critical during the cold winter months when the temperature drop can lead to underinflated tires. In this blog, we will discuss tire pressure in winter.

What Should Tire Pressure Be in Winter?

The optimal tire pressure for most of the vehicles in Canada is between 30 and 35 PSI (pounds of force per square inch). However, check the vehicle manual to find out the exact tire pressure for your vehicle.

Does Tire Pressure Decrease in Winter?

During the winter months, the temperature drops significantly, causing the air inside the tire to contract, resulting in lower tire pressure. For every ten-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, the tire pressure decreases by one pound per square inch (PSI). Therefore, if your tire pressure is 30 PSI at 70°F, it will drop to 25 PSI at 30°F.

What’s Different About Tire Pressure in Winter?

The cold winter weather can have a significant impact on tire pressure. The air inside your tires contracts when the temperature drops, causing the tire pressure to decrease. This means that even if your tires were properly inflated in warmer weather, they could be underinflated during the winter months.

Underinflated tires can cause several issues, including reduced handling and control, increased wear and tear on your tires, and decreased fuel efficiency. Additionally, the decreased tire pressure can make your tires more susceptible to damage from potholes, bumps, and other hazards on the road.

Low Tire Pressure Should not Be Ignored

Low tire pressure is a problem that shouldn’t be ignored. When your tires are underinflated, it can have several negative effects on your vehicle’s performance and safety.

  • Firstly, low tire pressure can reduce fuel efficiency, as it causes your vehicle to work harder to maintain speed and can increase resistance on the road. This means that you’ll have to spend more money on gas to travel the same distance.
  • Secondly, underinflated tires can increase wear and tear on your tires, as they put more stress on the rubber and can cause the tread to wear down more quickly. This can decrease the lifespan of your tires, meaning that you’ll have to replace them more frequently.
  • Finally, low tire pressure can affect your vehicle’s handling and control, making it more difficult to steer and stop in emergencies. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

How to Check Tire Pressure in Winter

Regularly checking your tire pressure is essential to ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance. Here’s how to check your tire pressure in cold weather:

  • Check your vehicle owner’s manual to determine the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.
  • Use a tire pressure gauge or tire pressure sensor to measure the tire pressure when the tires are cold (i.e., have not been driven for more than one mile).
  • Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure level using an air compressor or visit a professional service center for assistance.

Tips for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure in Cold Weather

Here are some tips for maintaining the right tire pressure during the cold winter months:

  • Check your tire pressure at least once a month, even if you don’t notice any visible changes.
  • Keep your vehicle parked in a garage or enclosed area to minimize temperature fluctuations.
  • If your tire pressure warning light comes on, check your tire pressure immediately.
  • Avoid overinflating your tires, as it can lead to reduced tire life and uneven tread wear.

Conclusion

Proper tire pressure is essential for vehicle safety and performance, especially during the cold winter months. Regularly checking your tire pressure and maintaining the recommended levels can help you avoid accidents, increase fuel efficiency, and extend your tire life. Stay safe on the road this winter by keeping your tires properly inflated.

Check your vehicle’s winter tires during cold weather or contact Urban Lube Calgary today for winter tires.

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How Do I Check My Transmission Fluid Level?

How Do I Check My Transmission Fluid Level?

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As a car owner, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle’s transmission fluid level is adequate to avoid problems like transmission failure. Checking your transmission fluid level is a simple and crucial task that every car owner should know. This blog will guide you on how to check your transmission fluid level.

Importance of Checking Transmission Fluid Level

Checking your transmission fluid level is essential because it helps you to identify potential problems before they cause severe damage. Low transmission fluid levels can cause your transmission to overheat, which may lead to costly repairs. Therefore, checking your transmission fluid level regularly can save you money in the long run.

When to Check Transmission Fluid Level

You should check your transmission fluid level at least once a month or as recommended in your car owner’s manual. Additionally, you should check your transmission fluid level if you notice any of the following signs:

  • The transmission is slipping or shifting irregularly
  • The transmission fluid is dark or has a burnt smell
  • The transmission fluid level is low

How to Check Transmission Fluid Level

Checking your transmission fluid level is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. Here are the steps:

  • Step 1: Locate the Transmission Fluid Dipstick

The first step in checking your transmission fluid level is to locate the transmission fluid dipstick. The dipstick is usually located near the transmission and has a brightly colored handle that is easy to identify.

  • Step 2: Check the fluid level

Once you locate the dipstick, remove it and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Then, reinsert the dipstick and remove it again to check the fluid level. The fluid level should be within the designated range on the dipstick. If the fluid level is low, you may need to add or change the transmission fluid.

  • Step 3: Add or change transmission fluid if necessary

If the transmission fluid level is low, you should add more fluid to bring it back to the appropriate level. To add fluid, remove the transmission fluid filler cap and use a funnel to pour the fluid into the transmission. If the transmission fluid is dark or has a burnt smell, you may need to change the transmission fluid.

Common Problems Related to Low Transmission Fluid Level

Low transmission fluid levels can cause various problems, including:

  • Overheating: Low transmission fluid levels can cause the transmission to overheat, leading to severe damage.
  • Slipping gears: Insufficient fluid can cause the transmission to slip, making it difficult to shift gears.
  • Erratic shifting: Low transmission fluid levels can cause erratic shifting, making it challenging to control your vehicle.
  • Failure: If the transmission fluid level is critically low, it can cause the transmission to fail.

Conclusion

Checking your transmission fluid level is a simple but crucial task that every car owner should know. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can ensure that your transmission fluid level is adequate, preventing potential problems like transmission failure.

Contact Urban Lube for transmission fluid changes in Calgary to keep your vehicle engine running.

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Everything You Need to Know About Winter Tire in Calgary

Everything You Need to Know About Winter Tire in Calgary

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Driving in Canadian winters may be challenging, especially in Calgary, where the weather can vary dramatically on a daily basis. With winter tire change in Calgary, you’ll be well-prepared to face whatever ever-changing weather tosses at you.

Purpose of a Winter Tire Changeover in Calgary?

Winter tires are an important safety component of your car in winter driving conditions since they are the only component of your vehicle that comes into contact with the road. Winter tires guarantee that your vehicle has the finest possible road surface contact. Appropriate winter tires assist you to minimize braking distance in slick weather, as well as, improve cornering and turning performance to make it safer for you, your family, and everyone else on the road.

When Should You Get Winter Tires?

Replacing winter tires should be done in advance, rather than in a hurry after the first snowfall or ice that you encounter. When the temperature falls below 7 degrees in the fall, you should consider a winter tire change in Calgary for your car. Because lower temperatures impair the suppleness of rubber in conventional tires, consider the winter tires to be “cold-weather” tires alternatively.

Rubber Compounds in Winter Tires

The latest winter tires that are manufactured contain specialized rubber compounds that are flexible even at low temperatures. This flexibility along with the presence of substances like silica provides better grip and improved traction to help the tires move seamlessly on the road, giving the driver enhanced control in bad weather conditions in Calgary. Also, the small groves present on the winter tires move the water away from the front, thus helping the tires maintain consistent contact with the road.

Studded Winter Tires

If you are looking for a winter tire changeover in Calgary, studded winter tires are the best choice. Studded tires give unmatched control over your car. They increase traction, braking speed, and handling on hard-packed snow or black ice.

How Much Does Winter Tire Changeover Cost?

Winter tires come in a variety of styles, ranging from standard to premium to studded. There are also many different types of cars. Individual tire prices do not include the new rims you’ll need to go with your winter tires. The cost of a winter tire change in Calgary will vary based on many aspects such as brand, the rims, the included package, and offers from your mechanic. There are other aspects that might affect pricing, such as size and custom orders.

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Winter Tires in Calgary are Available from Leading Brands

If you are looking for a winter tire change in Calgary, here are the top brands that you can consider.

  • Goodyear
  • Nexen
  • Cooper
  • Toyo
  • Yokohama
  • Falken
  • Firestone
  • Michelin
  • Continental
  • GT Radial

Your tires should be changed as the seasons change. If the temperature constantly hovers around 7°C, it’s time to go for a winter tire change in Calgary.

Book an appointment for a tire change in Calgary.

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When Should You Take Your Winter Tires Off?

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