Automotive News & Information - CME Smog & Auto Repair

There are a lot of drivers on the road today with improperly adjusted rearview mirrors, contributing to unnecessary blind spots and potentially hazardous driving conditions. At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, we place a lot of value on efficiency; here’s how to get the most out of your mirrors.

The exhaust on your truck is an important series of components, that work together to ensure smooth, reliable operation. At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, we also know that exhaust systems are especially susceptible to damage and rust; pipes, mufflers, and other parts are exposed to hazards on the road, and to the environment. This situation, combined with caustic emissions and extreme heat, creates a perfect opportunity for problems to arise.

It’s likely you’ve been exposed to conflicting opinions about having your transmission fluid replaced. You may have heard that cars over a certain mileage should not have the transmission fluid flushed and replaced, because it could damage the transmission, or you may have had someone tell you the first thing you should do at any sign of trouble is have your transmission flushed. At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, our expert mechanics have the answers you’re looking for.

The Turbo on your Chevrolet, Dodge, or Ford diesel truck is an integral component of your truck’s ability to perform. Turbos affect everything from power output to fuel mileage, allowing your pickup to reach its full potential in terms of power, torque, and efficiency. At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, turbo knowledge is one of our specialties, because we understand the importance of quality turbo parts, replacements, and repair.

The steering and suspension systems are key safety-related systems that largely determine your car’s ride and handling. Have these systems checked regularly, at least once a year, and usually with a wheel alignment.

What does it do? - The suspension maintains the relationship between the wheels and the frame or unibody. The suspension system interacts with the steering system to provide vehicle control. When working properly, the suspension system helps absorb the energy from road irregularities such as potholes and helps to maintain vehicle stability. The steering system transmits your input from the steering wheel to the steering gear and other steering components to control the car’s direction.

Typical Wear and Tear - Over time, steering and suspension components wear out and require replacement. Regular checks are critical to maintaining a safe car. Factors that affect wear include driving habits, operating conditions (potholes in road), vehicle type, type of steering and suspension system, and frequency of regular maintenance. Some symptoms that you are having issues with your vehicle steering and suspension include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, excessive noise, vibration or bouncing, and loss of control.

Call or come by CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville today to have our professionals make sure your car is road-ready!

Routine maintenance can lead us to discover all kinds of things you would think are obvious but as drivers with a routine, we simply get in and drive. We may think that if the lights come on and the car starts there are no issues, but at CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville we know what to look for and when to ask questions. When your vehicle is pulling to one side there are several possibilities.

At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, we know that a key aspect of taking care of your transmission is understanding how it works. Here’s some info on transmission fluid types, in case you’re having trouble finding yours.

Your drive belts run everything - your AC, power steering, alternator, and water pump are all dependent on the belts that turn them. At CME Smog & Auto Repair in Vacaville, our goal is to keep your truck maintained, so you’re never stuck out on the road. Drive belts are a critical part of that goal.