Honda vehicles are known for providing a smooth and comfortable ride. This is due in part to the suspension systems this brand of the automobile comes equipped with. Over time, the various components that make up your car’s suspension system will wear out. When these components start to fail, you will be presented with several warning signs.

Dealing with car repair issues are a natural part of owning an automobile. On average, American car owners spend over $188 billion on repairs annually. Below are some signs you may notice when your vehicle has a suspension issue.

1. A Rough and Bouncy Ride

Modern suspension systems are designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. When suspension problems are present, you will notice a change in how your car operates. If the ride your car is providing starts to feel bouncy and rough, you need to take action. Feeling every little bump in the road can be very uncomfortable, which is why getting the suspension problems causing these issues diagnosed and fixed quickly is imperative.

In most cases, a rough and bouncy ride will be caused by worn-out shocks. Replacing this integral part of your suspension system is very complex. This is why hiring an experienced mechanic to do this work is a wise move. With their help, you can get your car back on the road and riding smoothly in no time.

2. Uneven Tire Tread

Checking the condition of your tires on a regular basis is the best way to stay safe while behind the wheel. Driving around on tires with limited tread can be dangerous due to the reduced stopping power these damaged tires have. When inspecting your tires, you need to take a good look at the tread. The tread on your tire is supposed to wear down at the same rate. However, if parts of the tire tread look more worn than others, this could be an indication that a suspension problem is present.

If the suspension system on your vehicle is not holding the tires at an even position, this uneven wear problem will occur. Waiting to get this issue addressed can result in your tires blowing out and leaving you stranded. This is why putting your vehicle in the shop and getting this problem fixed is important.

3. The Car is Pulling to One Side

Another problem you may notice when suspension repair is needed is that your car pulls to one side. In some cases, an over or underinflated tire can cause this problem. However, if your tires are properly inflated, you are probably dealing with a damaged caster or camber. Figuring out which suspension component is causing this issue is only possible with some professional assistance. Once a mechanic discovers the damaged suspension component, they can get it replaced in a hurry.

We Can Help You Get Your Car Back On the Road!

At Burden Auto Care, you can get the car repairs you need for a competitive price. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.

The post 3 Signs Your Car Has a Suspension Issue appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

So you suspect something may be wrong with your vehicle, but are unfamiliar with cars and don’t know where to start. That’s perfectly fine, not all of us are expert mechanics, but your car still needs to be fixed and you need to get to the bottom of the problem. Routine maintenance is something all good car owners should be familiar with, at least on a basic level. Some issues with cars may actually be more identifiable and fixable than you initially realized. That being said, here are some of the most common car issues drivers experience.

Check The Battery

One of the first most common issues with cars is dead batteries. So you got in your car and are ready to drive, but when you go to start it, it won’t start. You notice none of the lights are lighting up and your car seems “dead”. This most likely indicates that your battery is dead. No worries though, all you need to fix this problem is a jump start. This can be done by jumping your car battery off from another car’s using jumper cables. If your battery dies a lot, it’s most likely time to replace it as they typically need changing every five years.

Make Sure Your Lights Work

Another common issue is blown headlights/brake lights. These can be less easy to notice right off the bat but are not hard to identify. You should routinely check your car’s lights to ensure that they are all in working condition, but if you notice that one is not, do not worry. Most people think you may need to replace the whole component when actually you just need to replace the bulb. This can be a simple repair and only requires a few minor tools and a new bulb which you can pick up from any auto parts store.

Breaking Issues

Breaks are essential to safe driving. Bad breaks can be a dangerous issue, as we use them to stop and potentially avoid accidents. You can notice your breaks deteriorating over time and may even be able to hear them grinding. An easy problem to notice, these require a little more work and knowledge to fix. If you’re good with cars you may be able to do your own repairs, but it is advised that if you need to work on your breaks that you take it to an auto mechanic where professionals will correct the problem. This will ensure your safety and the safety of your vehicle.

Trust The Professionals

At Burden Auto Care, we value customer service and satisfaction above all else, and we understand the importance of earning your trust. Let our certified auto mechanics take a look at your vehicle the next time it is experiencing problems, and we will make sure you receive quality care.

The post A Look At The Most Common Issues Drivers Experience With Automobiles appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Having a reliable and appealing vehicle is something most people view as a priority. If you are the proud owner of a Honda or Acura vehicle, keeping it in pristine shape is important. Car owners in the United States spend thousands of dollars each year on repairs and maintenance. Getting familiar with the different systems your vehicle has is crucial when trying to spot problems early on.

The cooling system helps to keep your Honda or Acura vehicle from overheating. When elements of this system are damaged, you will start to notice your engine overheating. Fixing these cooling system problems quickly will allow you to reduce the amount of damage done. Here are some common problems that can cause your vehicle to overheat.

A Damaged Radiator Can Cause Lots of Problems

One of the main jobs of your car’s radiator is to keep coolant circulating when it is needed. Without a steady flow of coolant, it is only a matter of time before your engine starts to overheat. The older your radiator gets, the more problems you will start to experience. If your radiator has a leak, it will allow all of the coolant to escape.

If you start to notice pools of coolant under your radiator, you need to take action immediately. Allowing a mechanic to inspect your radiator will help you figure out how to address the problems it has. Having the radiator flushed and inspected regularly is essential when trying to keep it functional. If your existing radiator does have to be replaced, a knowledgeable mechanic can get this work done in a hurry.

Leaking Radiator Hoses

The only way your radiator can keep coolant flowing to parts of your engine is with the help of coolant hoses. These large hoses are designed to carry coolant in and out of your radiator consistently. Radiator hoses are made from thick and durable rubber. The high heat these hoses are exposed to will damage them over time.

Small cracks in your radiator hoses can lead to lots of coolant being lost. Taking the time to inspect the belts and hoses on your vehicle routinely is a wise move. By doing this, you can detect radiator hose damage early on.

Water Pump Issues

Another essential part of your cooling system is the water pump. Without a functional water pump, your engine will be unable to get the coolant it needs to avoid overheating. If your water pump has a lot of buildup, it will be unable to circulate the coolant that enters it. This will cause your engine to overheat.

Diagnosing water pump problems can be difficult, which is why allowing professionals to handle this work is crucial. A mechanic will have the tools and experience needed to properly diagnose your overheating problems.

Don’t Wait to Fix Cooling System Problems

The longer you wait to fix your engine overheating problems, the more damage you will ultimately have to deal with. Contact Burden Auto Care and let us help you get your car back in good working order.

The post Is Your Honda Overheating We Can Help You Figure Out Why! appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Visibility through your front windshield is essential for being able to drive from point A to point B safely. The windshield wipers on your car play a huge role in helping you stay safe, especially during rain or snow. Unfortunately, no windshield wipers will last forever. Get to know some of the top signs you need to invest in new ones for your vehicle here. 

Rubber Issues

Look closely at your windshield wipers. Does the rubber look smooth or is it split, cracked, or broken off in some areas? If you notice any imperfections in the rubber of the wiper blade, it means you need to invest in new ones. Your blade may also get a rounded look, which means it is old and needs to be replaced. 

Film or Streaks on the Windshield 

If your windshield wipers cause streaks on the windshield, it will be pretty obvious. This is especially true if you are caught in the rain or snow. However, if you begin to notice consistent grime or film on your windshield, even after you have used fluid to clean the glass, this is another sign you need new wiper blades. In some situations, just wiping the blades with a cloth or paper towel will handle this issue. However, if the problem persists, you will know it is time to invest in new wiper blades. 

Chattering Sounds

Have you ever heard that horrible sound your windshield wipers make as they move across the glass? If you begin to hear it, it is time to replace them. Not only is this noise quite frustrating, but it also means the wipers are not effectively cleaning your windshield the way they should. This is because they are only coming in contact with some of the glass. This inconsistent cleaning job can cause an array of vision issues while you are on the road. 

Bent Frames

On your wipers, there is a metal part that may be damaged or bent. This can happen for an array of reasons. For example, if you try to remove the ice during the winter a bit to forcefully, damage to the wipers may occur. Even handling the blades roughly when you try to wipe them down may bend them. If you notice that the frame of your blades has become bent, it won’t come into contact with your windshield properly. Now is the time to replace them. 

Inadequate Windshield Contact

When it is raining too hard, it is obvious that your wipers aren’t meeting certain portions of your windshield. If the blades don’t contact the glass properly, you need new ones because this may hinder your ability to see clearly while you are driving. 

If you need new windshield wipers, don’t wait to invest in them and have them installed. The longer you wait, the more you are putting yourself and others at risk while you are on the road. Remember, each vehicle requires certain sizes and types so know the specifications before making a purchase.

The post Tell-Tale Signs You Need New Windshield Wiper Blades appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Summer is full of the sun, warm days, and for many, the appeal of the open road. However, before you venture out for a long-awaited road trip, you need to make sure your vehicle is up to the venture. There are a few common issues vehicles have during the warmer months of the year and knowing what the problems are will help you avoid serious problems and expensive repairs. Keep reading to find out what the most common car issues during the summer months are.

The Air Conditioning

Nothing will make driving long, or short distances seem longer than an air conditioner that doesn't work correctly. Be sure to test the AC to make sure the blower motor is working and that the fuses controlling the fan speed are not faulty. If the air coming out of the AC doesn't feel quite as cool as it used to, there is a good chance the unit needs to be charged or that there is a leak. This is something your mechanic can fix.

The Power Steering

Is it becoming more difficult to turn corners in your car? If so, the issue may be the power steering. Issues with the steering pump can be serious, and they may have detrimental effects on the ability you have to drive. If you hear squealing, have a hard time turning the wheel, or see puddles on your driveway, get to a mechanic immediately.

The Spark Plugs

Making sure your spark plugs are functioning properly is essential to make sure that other parts of the vehicle are working properly. If the spark plugs are not in good condition, changing them is necessary. This is a fast and pretty affordable repair to make, so don't put it off.

The Battery

Extreme heat and extreme cold can affect your battery's health. The heat will accelerate corrosion, and if your vehicle's battery is subjected to ongoing high temperatures, damage may occur. In the extreme cold, batteries may become sluggish, which will reduce the ability they have to provide adequate power. Be sure to check the terminals for any signs of corrosion and have your mechanic check the battery at your next scheduled service.

Leaks

One of the fastest and easiest ways to inspect your vehicle's health is by looking at the driveway or area under your car to see if there are any puddles. Damp spots that don't evaporate may be due to an oil leak, brake fluid, or transmission fluid. If you notice these puddles, do not wait to have the fluid checked.

Don't Put Off Needed Vehicle Repairs

Remember, your vehicle is designed to protect you while on the open road. Be sure to check for any of the issues here throughout the year to ensure you aren't going to breakdown. Being informed and knowing when you need to seek the help of a mechanic is the best way to ensure your vehicle stays in good, drivable condition throughout the year.

The post Common Car Issues in Summer appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

The summer months are quickly approaching, which means hot sticky temperatures that can wreak havoc on our automobiles. For our cars to continue to run smoothly during the heat of summer, they require routine care and maintenance, especially if they are constantly exposed to high temperatures. 

Hot temperatures can pose a myriad of threats to your automobile. Low oil pressure, water leaks, brake system failures, belt, and tire damage are just a few of the problems your car can experience in the summer months.

Regular Routine Maintenance

Along with the scheduled routine maintenance checks, drivers should be proactive when it comes to ensuring their vehicle is running well and recognizing signs if it isn’t. Fortunately, there are ways you can keep your car operating in top condition during the heat of summer and throughout the year. 

Keeping Engines Cool

Automobile engines produce an enormous amount of heat energy while in operation. It is imperative that you keep coolant levels full to provide your engine the necessary means of which it can keep heat levels in check. If the coolant level in your vehicle drops below the minimum requirements, it could lead to devastating consequences. Radiators need to remain full of the appropriate form of coolant in order to maintain the heat levels in your car. 

Checking Coolant Expiration Dates

The form of coolant you use should be within the expiration date listed on the packaging in order to perform at its best. Using a coolant product that has exceeded its expiration date can damage your radiator and engine by accumulating grimy deposits over time, which decreases the amount of airflow around your engine. Poor airflow can also lead to your car running too hot, leaving it in need of possibly extensive repairs. 

Lighten Your Load

Overloading your vehicle while on your family’s summer vacation may also contribute to an unforeseen breakdown. Your car has to work harder to pull the extra weight of too much luggage and gear, causing it to run less efficiently and adding undue strain on its moving parts during the high temperatures. 

Being Proactive Is Key

Checking to make sure your car has a consistent amount of appropriate coolant will keep you safely on the move in the heat of the summer, and making sure not to overload your vehicle will decrease the chances of a breakdown just when you least expect it. 

If you find that your car is in need of a routine maintenance check, or if you have concerns about its operational safety in the hot months ahead, contact Burden Auto Care to schedule an appointment today that will give you the confidence that your care is safe to drive tomorrow.

The post Keep Your Car Running Safely In The Summer Months appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

All drivers know that brakes play an essential role when it comes to the safety and functionality of the vehicle. But, what most don’t know is that their driving habits significantly affect the brakes’ lifespan. 

Both the geographical location and driving style affect brake longevity. For instance, if you’re from a place that’s notorious for heavy traffic, you’re likely to use your brakes many times than a person who resides in an area without much traffic. This is an example of those factors you can’t control.

Here are practical things you can do to help lengthen your car’s brake life:

1. Don’t Overspeed

Speeding is your brakes’ greatest enemy. Driving at a higher speed means that the braking system will require more effort to bring the car to a halt. Stopping a car that’s moving at 65 mph takes approximately 35 percent more energy than stopping one at 55 mph. Thus, it’s vital that you stay within the speed limit.

2. Coasting

Coasting refers to taking your foot from the accelerator so the car can slow down naturally followed by the application of brakes. While coasting may not for all cases on the road, it works well when you’re about to turn or when there’s a traffic light sign ahead.

3. Use One Foot to Brake

When using brakes, only use one foot. Some drivers brake while placing the other foot on the gas pedal, a technique referred to as brake riding. 

Well, doing this means the brakes are engaged for longer, which wears them out faster. So, ensure you don’t brake and accelerate simultaneously. It doesn’t only wear the brakes, but the tires as well. 

4. Remove Extra Weight

Extra weight on a vehicle can considerably impact the lifespan of its brakes. Only carry the necessary items and leave anything else behind.

Besides, note that aftermarket products usually weigh more than the original parts, which is why you shouldn’t be quick to install the former. If possible, consider purchasing a lighter car that’s easier on tires, brakes, gas, and of course, your wallet.

5. Don’t be a Follower on the Road

When you’re a follower on the road, you don’t only risk a crash, but you also overwork your brakes. Braking every time the driver in front of you brakes will cause the brakes to wear quicker. Instead of following a fellow driver, practice coasting, but ensure you keep a safe distance between your car and the one ahead of you. 

6. Regularly Flush Brake Fluid

Naturally, brake fluid attracts water, and this can lower the boiling point of the braking system’s fluid. But diluted brake fluid can curtail the functioning of brakes. The extra moisture from external water can also result in internal corrosion, which may erode away the braking system’s parts. A good way to prevent this is to replace and flush the brake fluid on a regular basis.

Your driving habits directly impact the lifespan of your car brakes. Most importantly, get quality parts for your car and you won’t keep on replacing them every time.

The post Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Car Brakes appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Car fluids are like the lifeblood of your automobile. Maintaining the recommended levels of car fluids such as engine oil, brake oil, and coolants is necessary to keep your car in reliable running condition. 

When your car runs, the damage from friction and heat produced by the moving components can be tremendous. Car fluids help in reducing this damage by lubricating the different moving parts, thereby preventing engine damage. 

Engine Oil

Engine oil helps in keeping the moving parts of your engine lubricated. As mentioned above, the friction and heat generated from the different moving parts inside the engine can cause severe engine damage. Keep in mind that that engine repairs can burn a hole in your pocket, while preventive car care will prove to be far more cost-effective. 

Transmission Fluid

If the transmission of your car is well lubricated, it can help prevent a number of problems from developing. Just like the engine oil, the transmission fluid cools and lubricates the parts inside the transmission, which includes parts such as gears, valves, and clutches. 

If your transmission fluid is bad, you might experience rough shifting, the car might hesitate, or buck, which makes driving difficult, or the car might generate strange noises. 

Brake Fluid

The brake fluid is pressurized and works by providing power to your braking system which, allows you to stop your car as and when required. Over a period of time, brake fluid can get contaminated by water which can lead to the brake lines to become rusted, or there can be damage from leaks. 

This obviously will impact your braking system – you may find that the brake pedal feels spongy, or the brake pedal might display varying degrees of responsiveness. 

Power Steering Fluid

The power steering fluid ensures the seamless functioning of the power steering by keeping it is lubricated. If your power steering fluid is low or if the fluid reservoir is going bad, you will find that steering your car becomes difficult, and your car is not as responsive – it could either be due to a leak in the reservoir or due to low fluid level. 

The car might also generate noises while turning or steering the wheel. This can happen if air gets into the system due to the low level of power steering fluid.

Radiator Fluid

The job of the radiator fluid is to ensure your engine does not overheat. If your engine overheats, your car could stop running. And the last thing you want it to get stranded on a highway or in traffic. Ideally, radiator fluid needs to be checked every 50,000 miles or so – unless there is a leak or any other issue. 

Coolant

The coolant absorbs engine heat and dissipates it via the radiator or via the heat exchanger in the passenger compartment. However, like all other systems and components, sometimes the coolant can accumulate dust and rust particles – when this happens, it needs to be replaced.

The post Six Car Fluids You Should Check Regularly appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Getting your driver’s license can be one of the proudest moments of a teenager’s life. Not only does it prove you can master the road, but it also gives you a level of freedom you may not have considered before. Only when you get behind the wheel alone for the first time do you come close to understanding the sense of adventure that comes with driving. It’s one thing for you to borrow from a family member or friend, with rules in effect for their property which can give you limitations when it comes to driving. What about when you finally get your own vehicle, so you can make the rules? What then?

Love Your Car Like Yourself

Let’s face it: freedom is important to everyone, regardless of whether they are young or old. Not having to depend on anybody for a ride to a party or work can feel extremely liberating. Owning your own vehicle also provides a strong sense of pride. It doesn’t matter if it was gifted to you for your sweet sixteen or you worked every available hour to nickel-and-dime a purchase, your car is very important to who you are and how you get to where you need to go. When you know next to nothing about your car, though, it might make you wonder what you should do when it starts making a strange sound or you notice a funky smell when you turn on the heat You wouldn’t delay a doctor’s appointment when you start to cough, so why would you deny your vehicle the same treatment?

Don’t Be Ashamed to Ask for Help

It can feel a bit intense to have to research what to do when it feels like everything is breaking down at once, never mind the ominous check engine light that never seems to turn off no matter what you do. Maybe you have a mechanic friend who knows a little about cars and might be able to give yours a peek under the hood. Perhaps your dad knows someone he’s been going to for fifteen years and he’s happy to talk to his guy for you. Whatever the case, it is essential to the life of your vehicle that when it starts to act up, it is probably time to get it checked out. What may start out as a tiny issue which could be easily remedied, might evolve into a breakdown that may potentially leave you without a car.

If you drive a Honda or Acura, then you are in luck! We have specialists here who can help you figure out what’s going on with your vehicle before it starts to choke. Check out our extensive list of services to see if anything jumps out at you, or just come on down and we’ll figure it out for you.

The post Reasons to Appreciate Your Vehicle appeared first on Burden Auto Care.

Regular maintenance is a good investment. Your car health is as critical as routine doctor visits to people. Cars that are well cared for are cleaner, more efficient, better running, and last longer. Read on for more information on the importance of a consistent schedule for car maintenance.

Money

It may seem that by taking your car in for regular maintenance, you are spending more money and time. You can save money and time down the road by adhering to a car maintenance schedule. The cost of replacing a timing belt before it fails, for example, is much cheaper than it will be if you wait until it fails and causes further damage to your engine. Items like adequately inflated tires and clean filters also improve your fuel economy, which will help you save gas money.

Time

If you are removing the timing belt on schedule, the car will also be in the shop for less time than if you wait until it fails. You also get leverage when you take your vehicle to the shop if you adhere to a maintenance schedule. But if you miss those appointments, your car could end up breaking down at an inappropriate time, causing you to be late for a significant event.

Safety

A clean, reliable car is a must-have, whether you're on a long road trip or driving to and from the office for a few minutes. It also guarantees that your car is safe to drive by adhering to a maintenance schedule. If you get your vehicle serviced when you are meant to, you can trust that your brakes are working and that your engine is in top shape.

Money, time, and safety are three important reasons to maintain a regular car maintenance schedule. If you are unsure of when to get your car serviced, AAA provides a basic schedule to help you along the way. Continue reading for a shortlist. 

• Oil-change intervals are now recommended between 5,000 to 10,000 or more miles

• Transmission fluids are designed to last more than 100,000 miles

• Read the maintenance requirements set by auto manufacturers in the owner’s manual, which is the most accurate source for your vehicle’s maintenance needs.
• Follow the recommendations of in-vehicle maintenance reminder systems for oil-change intervals and other services.

The post The Importance of Routine Car Maintenance appeared first on Burden Auto Care.