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Maintenance
February 9, 2021
What is Engine Braking & Why Should You Use It?
Using the footbrake is the most common way to reduce your speed, both in an emergency and in normal conditions. Depending on how hard you press the brake pedal, you control the speed at which you slow down, when you stop, and when you start again. But using the footbrake isn’t the only way to […]
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Maintenance
February 1, 2021
Why Won’t My Car Start? Troubleshooting the Electrical System
If your car won’t start, the likely culprit is your electrical system—namely, the battery, alternator or starter. Your car battery provides your vehicle with the power it needs to start. When you turn the key, the battery sends an electrical charge to engage the starter motor, which starts the engine. Once your vehicle is running, the […]
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Safety
January 25, 2021
Safe Driving Tips for VA Drivers
One of the first principles we all learn in driver’s ed class is to watch out for the “other guy.” Even if you’re an excellent driver, most people aren’t—and they pose a real risk to you on the roads. This is why defensive driving is so important. Defensive driving is driving in a way that […]
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Maintenance
December 29, 2020
What Is a Driveline Service?
Regular driveline inspections and maintenance are essential if you want to keep your car—and your life—moving. The driveline connects your transmission to the wheels, transforming the power from your engine into the rotation of the wheels. So if any part of it is broken, your vehicle isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. What is a driveline? […]
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Maintenance
December 18, 2020
The Importance of Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers are a small part of your car, but they have a big impact on your driving and overall safety. They remove rain, snow, dirt, pollen, frost and other debris quickly and smoothly at the push of a button! The windshield wiper motor moves the windshield wiper arms across the windshield. The metal or […]
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Safety
November 24, 2020
Do I Need to Buy Winter Tires in Virginia?
The weather outside may not be frightful, but ‘tis the season to deck the cars for a winter wonderland! Whether you’re a Virginia native or a new resident, you may be wondering if you need to buy winter tires. We’re here to help! Keep reading to find out our recommendation for which tires to choose […]
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Safety
October 29, 2020
The Driver’s Guide to Hydroplaning
Have you ever seen a bug skimming on the surface of a pond? Or seen a water skier drift across a lake? It’s an impressive sight to see as they gracefully glide across the water’s surface. But what looks graceful for a bug or a water skier is not great for your car. When your […]
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Maintenance
October 19, 2020
How to Safely Jump-Start a Car
One of the worst feelings in the world is when you go to turn on your car and—click. Nothing. Your battery is dead. Thankfully, though, a dead car battery is one of the easiest car problems to fix. With the right tools and know-how, you can jump-start the car and be on your way in […]
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Safety
September 25, 2020
How Does the Anti-Lock Braking System Work?
It’s a cold, wintry day, and the forecast warns of ice on the roads. You plan to take it slow on your commute, but you’re not sure what to do if you hit a patch of ice. Maybe you’ve heard that drivers should pump the brakes when stopping on ice. But that’s simply not true! […]
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Maintenance
September 15, 2020
How Auto Repair Estimates Work
If you’re like most car owners, your car is your main mode of transportation. You rely on it to get to work, take the kids to school, run errands and more! So when car owners are hit with an unexpected, expensive car repair, it’s easy to see why many get overwhelmed by the repair process. […]