Posted on 12/1/2024
Are your tires ready for the winter roads in Missouri? Winter weather can create dangerous driving conditions, and having the right tires is crucial for your safety. If you’re unsure whether your current tires can handle the cold, snow, and ice, now is the time to consider switching to winter tires. Winter tires are designed to provide better traction, shorter stopping distances, and increased stability in cold conditions. This means greater control on icy or snowy roads, helping you avoid accidents and feel more confident behind the wheel. In this blog, we’ll discuss why winter tires are a must for driving safely in Jefferson City, how they differ from regular tires, and when it’s time to make the switch. If you’re ready to upgrade your tires for the season, schedule your winter tire service with The Auto Shop here. What Makes Winter Tires Different? Winter tires are specifically designed for ... read more
Posted on 10/1/2024
Welcome to The Auto Shop's comprehensive guide to your vehicle's braking system. Understanding how your brakes work, their components, and recognizing when they need maintenance or repair can keep you safe on the road. This October, while we're participating in the Brakes for Breasts campaign, let's dive into the essential aspects of your vehicle's brakes. How Brakes Work Your vehicle's brakes are a complex system designed to slow down and stop your car safely. When you press the brake pedal, a series of actions occur: Brake Pedal Press: Your foot pressing the brake pedal creates pressure in the master cylinder. Hydraulic Pressure: This pressure forces brake fluid through brake lines to the calipers or wheel cylinders. Brake Pads and Rotors: In disc brakes, calipers squeeze the brake pads against the rotors, creating friction that slows the wheel. In drum brakes, wheel cylinders push brake shoes against the drum. Stopping the Vehicle: This friction convert ... read more
Posted on 9/1/2024
As September winds down, it's time to think ahead about maintaining your vehicle's brakes. At The Auto Shop in Jefferson City, Missouri, we're excited to participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign again this year. By scheduling your brake appointment in October, you not only ensure your vehicle's safety but also contribute to a worthy cause. Here are five compelling reasons to schedule your brake appointment for October: 1. Support Breast Cancer Research October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Brakes for Breasts is dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research. By scheduling your brake service in October, you directly support this initiative. For every brake service performed, The Auto Shop will donate 10% of the proceeds to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. This campaign funds crucial research aimed at developing a breast cancer vaccine. Learn more about this cause at Brakes for Breasts ... read more
Posted on 7/31/2024
Your vehicle's dashboard is like its nervous system, constantly monitoring and communicating vital information to you. One of the most critical aspects of this communication is through dashboard warning lights. Ignoring these lights can lead to costly repairs or even dangerous situations on the road. In this guide, we'll highlight ten dashboard lights that should never be ignored, along with symptoms to watch out for and the services your vehicle may need from The Auto Shop. 1. Check Engine Light (CEL): The check engine light (CEL) is perhaps the most notorious dashboard warning light. It indicates an issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Symptoms may include rough idling, poor acceleration, or decreased fuel efficiency. You might also notice unusual smells or sounds coming from the engine. Ignoring the CEL can lead to more severe problems and potentially costly repairs down the line. When the CEL illuminates, it's crucial to schedule a diagnostic sca ... read more
Posted on 5/1/2024
Heatwave Hacks: Car Care & Safety Tips for Missouri’s Summers Things are mild right now–many of us Missourians are enjoying the “calm before the storm”, or rather, the “cool summer weather” before the humidity and heat really start. It looks like we’ve got a hot summer full of heatwaves ahead of us, so now is the perfect time to prepare your vehicle for all things hot weather! In this blog, I’ll talk you through some of the things I suggest to our customers when it comes to getting that car ready for vacations, road trips, or just being parked on hot asphalt while you work. Cooling System Maintenance Is Number One One of the most critical aspects of summer car care is ensuring your vehicle's cooling system is in optimal condition. Missouri's heat can push engines to their limits, making them more prone to overheating. Regular maintenance checks are paramount, including coolant level inspection, radiator flushes, and t ... read more