Calgary Auto Repair Blog

You're grappling with a hefty mechanic's bill and can't help but think, 'Should I repair my vehicle or just buy a new one?' It's a common dilemma, weighing the costs and benefits of each option. In this discussion, we'll delve into factors such as the cost of repairs, the vehicle's current value, and the potential financial impact of purchasing a new car. We'll guide you through this challenging decision, steering you towards the best choice for your situation. Whether you're attached to your old ride or ready to switch gears, we're here to help you navigate this journey. Assessing the Value of Your Vehicle Before you make a decision, it's crucial you assess your vehicle's current value. This doesn't just mean knowing what you could get if you sold it today; it's about understanding its long-term worth. You've got to factor in future repair costs, maintenance, and fuel economy. Check online resource ... read more

  Like a squirrel gathering nuts before the snow falls, you're preparing your vehicle for winter. You may consider winter tires an unnecessary expense, but they're much more than just an accessory. They provide better traction, braking, and handling in cold conditions - not just snow. The secret lies in their special rubber compound, unique tread design, and deeper grooves. Stick around to unravel these three fascinating facts about winter tires, and understand why they're your best ally for safe winter driving. Understanding Winter Tires In order to fully understand winter tires, you've got to grasp the unique features that set them apart from their all-season counterparts. Winter tires, or snow tires, are specifically designed to perform in cold, snowy, or icy conditions. They're made from a softer rubber compound that stays flexible even in freezing temperatures. This suppleness allows them to maintain better contact with the road, improving your vehicl ... read more

  When Should I Put My Winter Tires On? Imagine you're driving along a snow-kissed road, the temperature dropping with each passing mile. This raises an important question: when should you put your winter tires on? With winter's icy grip affecting road conditions, the timing of this switch is crucial. This guide will help you identify the optimal time to swap your tires, understanding the cues from the weather and nature. You'll also gain insights into why winter tires provide superior traction during the frosty months. We'll even delve into the legal requirements in some areas for winter tire use. By the end, you'll be well-equipped to make your vehicle winter-ready, prioritizing your safety on the road. Understanding the Importance of Winter Tires Understanding the importance of winter tires, it's crucial you're aware they aren't just a luxury, but a necessity for safe winter driving. These tires are specia ... read more

Have you ever been driving on a hot summer day, and wondered why isn’t my air conditioner blowing cold air? Your air conditioning system uses refrigerant to create cold air. The most common reasons Calgary drivers lose their cold air have to do with the refrigerant. The first is not enough refrigerant. Refrigerant is a gas in the system and if there are very small holes in a hose, seal or coupler it can allow enough gas to leak out to prevent the creation of cold air. Another potential problem for Calgary auto owners is contamination. Over time the inside of the rubber hoses can deteriorate and little bits of rubber can clog up various filters and other vital parts of the vehicle A/C system, preventing proper circulation of the refrigerant. And a component could also be worn or broken. So the first step for Calgary drivers who can't cool their vehicle is a thorough air conditioning inspection, looking for leaks and ... read more

What's the deal with motor oil? Why synthetic over conventional? You’ve probably already heard that regular oil changes in Calgary, and any city for that matter, are extremely important for the health of your vehicle’s engine. That’s sound advice. But what you might not know is when it comes to motor oil, the real thing may not be the best thing for your engine. I know, if you're here in Alberta than this might sound crazy! But let us explain. There are different types of motor oil: Conventional oil, extracted from the ground and refined. Synthetic oil, manufactured from high-quality base oils and artificially-made chemical compounds. Synthetic oil blend, a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils. The first thing you need to know is that most new engines require synthetic oil.  If synthetic oil is recommended for your car – you MUST use it. For the rest, there are many advantages to using synthetic oil over conventional oil. Synt ... read more