Determining the Cause of Oil Degradation

What could be causing our lube oil to degrade faster?

There are many causes that can result in the degrading of your lube oil. The most common are oxidation, thermal breakdown of the lube oil, micro-dieseling, additive depletion and contamination.

Oxidation

Oxidation is the reaction of oil molecules with oxygen molecules. It can lead to an increase in viscosity and the formation of varnish, sludge and sediment. Additive depletion and a breakdown in the base oil can also result. Once an oil starts to oxidize, you may see an increase in the acid number. In addition, rust and corrosion can form on the equipment due to oxidation.

Thermal Breakdown

The temperature of the lubricant should be a primary concern. Besides separating the moving parts within a piece of machinery, a lubricant must also dissipate heat. This means the lubricant can and will be heated above its recommended stable temperature. The Arrhenius rate rule for temperature states that for every 18 degrees F (10 degrees C), the chemical reaction doubles. In other words, for every increase of 18 degrees F for your oil, the life of the oil is cut in half. Keeping the oil as cool as possible when in use will extend its life and reduce the reaction of thermal breakdown.

Micro-dieseling

Also known as pressure-induced thermal breakdown (degradation), micro-dieseling is a process in which an air bubble transitions from a low-pressure region in a system to a high-pressure zone. This is very common in hydraulic systems. Micro-dieseling results in adiabatic compression of the air bubble within the oil, which then cooks the surrounding oil molecules, causing instant oxidation of those molecules.

Additive Depletion

Most additive packages in oil are designed to be sacrificial and used up during the life of the oil. Utilizing oil analysis to monitor additive levels is important not only to assess the health of the lubricant but also to provide clues as to what is causing the depletion of the additives.

Contamination

Contamination such as dirt, water, air, etc., can greatly influence the rate of lubricant degradation. Dirt containing fine metal particles can be a catalyst that sparks and speeds up the degradation process of your lubricant. Air and water can provide a source of oxygen that reacts with the oil and leads to oxidation of the lubricant. Here again, oil analysis can be helpful in monitoring your lubricant’s contamination levels.

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TOP 5 MOST COMMON VEHICLE PROBLEMS DURING WINTER

The first snowfall of the year is a cause of celebration for many folks. There’s just something special about seeing those pretty flakes flying for the first time in November or December. But, the onset of winter also means it’s a good time to ensure your vehicles maintenance is up-to-date. Freezing temperatures can lead to issues with your vehicles. Read on for the five most common problems—and how to prevent them this year

  1. Your battery may die in colder weather. It’s a good idea to have your battery tested every time there is a routine service (like an oil change) performed on the vehicle. It also helps to keep your car or truck in a garage during the winter months if possible.
  2. Fluids thicken. To stay ahead of this common winter problem, be sure to have your trusted auto technician regularly check your oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake and transmission fluids. Leaks can also occur; it helps to warm up your vehicles before driving them.
  3. Parts corrode. Road salt laid down to melt the ice and help prevent slide offs can stick to your car’s metal components. If it’s left there, it can cause these to corrode. Wash vehicles regularly to protect the undercarriage, brakes and wheel wells.
  4. Your tire pressure will drop. Most tires lose one pound per square inch (psi) for every 10 degrees F of temperature drop. Under-inflated tires do not perform well in icy weather, so it is crucial to check your tire pressure throughout the winter season.
  5. Spark plugs may fail. A bad spark plug, ignition component or clogged filter may cause your vehicle not to start, so it’s smart to check these ahead of the harshest driving conditions.
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COLD WEATHER CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS

As winter settles in, your vehicle may encounter unique challenges that could impact its performance if you’re not adequately prepared. Proactive maintenance tailored to cold weather conditions can ensure that your car remains resilient, providing a more seamless and confident driving experience throughout the winter months.

INSPECT YOUR BATTERY

Cold temperatures can be especially taxing on car batteries. Verify the charge and connections of your battery; if it’s several years old, consider having it tested or replaced before the onset of intense cold.

CHECK YOUR TIRES

Regularly monitor your tire pressure, as it tends to decrease in colder climates. Additionally, assess the tread depth to confirm it meets safety standards.

TOP UP FLUIDS

Maintain recommended levels of essential fluids such as antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and oil. Antifreeze is particularly critical for engine protection in extremely cold weather.

EXAMINE THE LIGHTS

With shorter daylight hours in winter, it’s essential to inspect all your lights—headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any dim or burnt-out bulbs.

PROTECT YOUR WIPERS

Visibility is paramount during winter driving. Check your windshield wipers for signs of wear and tear, replacing them if needed. Consider using winter-grade wiper fluid to prevent freezing.

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT

Anticipate unforeseen circumstances by keeping an emergency kit in your car, equipped with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, a shovel, and non-perishable snacks.

MAINTAIN A FULL FUEL TANK

Running your car on a nearly empty tank in cold weather can lead to moisture in the fuel lines, potentially causing issues. Keep your tank at least half full to minimize the risk of fuel line freeze-ups.

Investing time in cold weather car maintenance can significantly impact your vehicle’s winter performance. Adhering to these straightforward tips can mitigate common winter-related problems, ensuring a safer and more dependable driving experience as the temperature drops. Stay proactive, stay safe, and confidently navigate the winter roads.

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4 Basic Maintenance Tips for Your Pickup Truck

Pickup trucks offer reliability, safety, and longevity for many drivers. A quality truck can haul thousands of pounds in towing power and provide a safe means of transportation for you and your family.

Over time, if you ignore its maintenance needs, a pickup truck can run into permanent problems. Adhere to these four basic maintenance tips for your pickup truck so that your vehicle runs smoothly. Before you know it, your car can outlast its life expectancy and provide years of dependability.

Check Your Vehicle Fluids

For a pickup truck to run correctly, it needs the necessary fluids. First and foremost, engine oil needs to remain clean and free of dirt, dust, and debris. Additionally, other fluids such as engine coolant, windshield washer fluid, and other liquids must stay specific to your make and model.

Checking your owner’s manual will provide the correct fluids you need so you don’t accidentally pick up the wrong one. For engine oil, pickup trucks older than 2007 need oil changes every 5,000 miles, while newer vehicles require replacement every 7,500 miles. It’s one of the basic maintenance tips for your pickup truck you need to know.

Rotate Your Tires Routinely

Over time, tires start to wear down and lose their tread on the road. The less tread your tires have, the worse the grip is on the road. Uneven or worn tread can quickly result in hydroplaning during a rainstorm or sliding along icy roads.

Getting your tires professionally rotated will help prevent this issue. It helps maintain an even amount of treadwear on your truck’s tires. Additionally, it helps prolong the life of your tires and vehicle suspension while improving gas mileage.

Keep the Exterior Clean

Whether you live in consistent 75-degree and sunny weather all year-round or somewhere where you experience all four seasons, your pickup truck endures a lot. Rainstorms, road salt, hail, and other loose debris can kick up into your vehicle’s paint and create a layer of grime.

Maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule will keep your vehicle’s exterior looking beautiful and shiny. Regularly cleaning your car will also keep your car’s paint from fading and even reduce rust growth. Lastly, don’t forget to clean your undercarriage.

Keep an Eye on Wheel Alignment

When you get your oil, it’s also essential to check your wheel alignment. Wheel misalignment can occur by driving through roads at high speeds and aggressive driving. It can easily throw your wheel alignment off and subsequently increase wear on your tires, worsen gas mileage, and affect hauling abilities. Make sure you maintain your wheel alignment through evenly inflated tires. Loading evenly into your truck bed to prevent vehicle pulling can also maintain the alignment.

Having a pickup truck brings plenty of benefits to your daily routine. Maintaining and caring for your truck is a regular investment of your time and energy, but it’s worthwhile.

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5 SAFE DRIVING TIPS FOR THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

Keep these tips in mind as you make your Thanksgiving holiday travel plans:

  1. Be flexible in your travel plans. If you can, try to avoid leaving during peak traffic hours. Leave a bit earlier than you originally planned in order to beat some of the rush.
  2. Perform a maintenance check on your vehicle. Before you hit the road, perform a check of your vehicle’s engine, fluids, headlights, windshield wipers, brakes, turn signal, and tires. Make any necessary repairs in order to reduce the chance of an accident caused by a maintenance failure.
  3. Take rest breaks. If you will be traveling a long distance, make sure that you pull over and take regular rest breaks to eat a snack, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air. Taking breaks is an effective way to ensure that you stay alert and fresh and avoid becoming impatient and fatigued while driving.
  4. Be patient. For even the most patient drivers, heavy traffic can be frustrating. However, it is important that you not let your frustration affect your driving. Avoid the temptation to speed, tailgate, or make unsafe lane changes or passes.
  5. Designate a driver. If your Thanksgiving get-together will involve alcohol, be sure to designate a driver if you need transportation. Drunk driving accidents tend to spike during the holidays – don’t allow yourself or your family members to become part of the statistics.
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10 Tips To Help Keep The Interior Of Your Car Clean

Keeping your Car’s interior clean is important for keeping its appearance, hygiene, and overall well-being. Here are some tips to help you keep the interior of your car looking spotless:

1) Your Car isn’t a Trash Can

Make it a habit to remove trash from your car daily. Try to avoid throwing trash and saying you’ll clean it up later because this will become a bad habit. To help with this, use a small trash bag or container to dispose of the garbage to make it easier to clean up.

2) Vacuum Regularly

Crumbs and dirt can be a tough thing to get out of your car. That dust can also seep into your seat covers and cracks in the car. It’s important to regularly vacuum the Car’s interior to keep it clean. Pay attention to the carpets, seats/seat covers, floor mats, and difficult to reach places.

3) Wipe Surfaces Frequently

While vacuuming is a helpful tool, wipes can be even more helpful when it comes to smaller areas or areas that need more detailed cleaning. This includes the dashboard, steering wheel, and door handles. You can use a damp cloth or a cleaning solution to wipe these spots down.

4) Not All Seat Covers Are Ugly

Seat covers can help protect your car’s seats from spills and stains. Not every seat cover is ugly, you can find pretty, affordable ones right on amazon. This is a great way to maintain your vehicle from wear and tear. Make sure to clean these covers regularly as well or else you’re just creating more of a dirty mess.

5) Clean Upholstery and Carpets

Whenever you find stains on the upholstery or carpets, treat them with a suitable cleaner or stain remover as soon as possible. Follow the instructions on the product and use a clean brush or tool to scrub the dirty area.

6) Pay Attention to Glass and Mirrors

Clean the interior glass and mirrors regularly to guarantee good visibility. Use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to remove smudges and fingerprints. Also keep the glass above your console and radio clean to help with visibility.

7) Organize Storage Compartments

Use organizers or storage bins to keep your belongings neatly in order. Find a good spot in the trunk or even the back seat where these bins can be stored. This will prevent messes and make it easier to keep your car clean.

8) Avoid Eating in the Car

Don’t eat or drink in your car, although this is a hard challenge for everyone, it will help in the long run. Eating in the car can lead to spills and crumbs, which can be challenging to clean.

9) Be Cautious With Liquids

When transporting liquids in your car, make sure they are secure and sealed to avoid spills. If a spill does occur, immediately clean it up to prevent stains or odors.

10) Regularly Maintain the Air Conditioning System

Clean or replace the cabin air filter as much as your Car’s manufacturer recommends. This will keep your car’s air fresh and reduce dust messes.

Remember that prevention and consistency is key to maintaining a clean car interior. By establishing good habits and planning out in advance, you can keep your car looking and smelling fresh for a very long time.

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6 TIPS TO MAKE YOUR CAR TRAVEL READY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Here are a few easy ways you can prepare your car for a road trip:

  1. Check Tire Pressure – This step is essential because you can get better gas mileage when you drive on properly aired tires. Not only will you be able to save some money in doing this, but you’ll decrease your risk of a dangerous blowout as well.

  2. Have Any Warning Lights Diagnosed – If you have some warning lights on your dashboard that you’ve been ignoring up until now, you’ll want to have them diagnosed before a long-distance trip. .

  3. Look at Your Fluids – The fluids in your engine enable it to run correctly, so you don’t want to be without them! You’ll want to check your oil, antifreeze, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washing fluid.

  4. Replace Old Windshield Wipers – Putting up with inefficient windshield wipers gets old after a while. Replace old ones before a trip, so you don’t end up frustrated, or unable to see, in the rain.

  5. Notice Unusual Brake Noises – If your brakes have been making a whining or grinding noise recently, it’s probably time to take your car in for brake service.

  6. Check Your Lights – If your headlights aren’t working, visibility while driving at night can be an issue. If your brake lights or turn lights are burnt out, you pose a danger to both yourself and other drivers. Have a spotter assist you in checking your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn lights.

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8 Signs of Auto Transmission Failure

While an auto transmission failure isn’t a death sentence for your car, it can definitely be a major repair. It usually means a lot of downtime and a huge bill. Your transmission is an amazing work or art. Ok, you might not want to mount it over your fireplace, but you have to admit that it is rather fascinating how all these gears and bearings and interestingly shaped parts are put together to create a system that actually propels your vehicle from Point A to Point B. Some people say that the transmission is the second most important part of the car, next to the engine. But, I respectfully disagree. It’s really a team effort – you can’t have one without the other. While, I guess you can, but they are rather useless independently. They are like the heart and the brain of your car. They work together. So, a problem with your transmission can affect the operation of the engine. And if you don’t fix it, you could have even bigger issues to deal with.

But, contrary to popular belief, an auto transmission failure doesn’t always have to be scary (are you breathing a sigh of relief now?) While it can be a costly adventure, in a lot of cases, the problem is actually quite minor. And, as with anything mechanical, if you catch the problem early enough, you may be able to avoid more serious issues. But, you can’t always count on mechanics to offer you the easy way out. After all, they are in the business to make money. So, when they see a woman walk through their doors, they get dollar signs in their eyes.

Transmissions are complex and complicated systems so fixing them usually requires a professional. But, that doesn’t mean that you have to accept whatever diagnosis you are handed. If in doubt, get a second opinion. Or, better yet, learn how to recognize the most common signs of auto transmission failure and how to rule out simple fixes before you authorize an expensive auto transmission repair. Replacing or rebuilding may be necessary, but it is important to check out other possibilities first. You never know, some basic knowledge could save you thousands of dollars.

Signs Of Auto Transmission Failure

  • Slippage. This is when your motor is revving but your car isn’t responding. It’s similar to the way your vehicle would react if your tires were slipping on ice or stuck in the snow. You are pushing the gas pedal and you can hear the engine roaring, but you don’t seem to be getting anywhere. Slippage affects your transmission’s ability to propel the car forward and if it gets really bad, eventually you may not move at all.
  • Leaks. Check under your car on a regular basis to make sure there aren’t any leaks. In most automatic transmissions the fluid is red, so if you notice a colored puddle on the ground, you should probably have your car checked out. In fact, if you notice any puddle at all (except for the ones made from your AC) you should investigate further.
  • Smells. If your fluid level is low, your transmission can overheat. When your transmission or transmission fluid gets too hot, you may notice a burning odor. Check your fluid level and add if necessary. You may also want to find out why the level was low in the first place.
  • Sounds. Knocking, whining, humming, buzzing, clunking, and grating can all be signs of transmission problems. These sounds can be a result of wear and tear, but they also can mean a low fluid level.
  • Delayed Engagement/Lack of Response. Sometimes your transmission doesn’t want to do what you ask when you ask. Just like your kids, right? But, unlike your children, there are times when motherly negotiations (aka bribing) will not convince your vehicle to behave properly. There are varying degrees of delayed engagement, and sometimes we are in danger of letting things for too long.
  • Rough Shifting. Again, your car should transition between gears smoothly. If you notice shaking, jarring, bumping, clunking, or abrupt/hard shifting, this may be a sign of transmission problems.
  • Fluid Color. Transmission fluid is red, clear, and has a slightly sweet odor. Look at a sample of new, clean fluid so you know the correct color and smell. If the fluid in your vehicle is murky, dark, or dirty, this could be an indication of problems. Sometimes changing the oil or doing a transmission flush will fix the issue. In some cases, more serious repairs may be necessary.
  • Check Engine Light. Sensors in your car can pick up small vibrations or other problems even before you notice them. The check engine light could be a warning of transmission problems, especially if you are also experiencing any of the above signs.
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7 Tips to Extend Your Car Battery Life

Car batteries are an essential part of an automobile. From getting your car started to charging your phone on-the-go, batteries provide the zap your vehicle needs to keep rolling. That’s why it’s so important to know when to start considering a car battery change, as well as what you can do to extend its lifespan.

The Average Car Battery Life

n average, car batteries last between 3 and 5 years.  One of the most important factors that affects how long a car battery will last is the weather. A running engine under the hood is already producing high levels of heat. Throw in a scorching hot day and you have a severe drain on your car battery, which can lead to an increased chance of a dead battery if you don’t take proper summer driving precautions.

Warm weather can cause fluid in car batteries to evaporate, damaging the internal structure of the battery. That’s why average battery life is shorter in warmer climates. So when estimating how long your car battery life will last, consider the climate you will do most of your driving in.

Regardless of the temperature you drive in, properly taking care of your car battery can help keep it running. Check out the seven tips below on extending the life of your car battery:

1. Limit Short Rides

Quick car rides prevent your car’s battery from fully charging. Maintain your car’s battery power by driving it frequently and for extended periods. If you don’t use your car often, consider investing in a portable car battery charger. These portable chargers can jump start your battery without another vehicle in case you’re ever stranded..

2. Keep Your Battery Tightly Fastened

A battery that’s not securely fastened could vibrate, potentially resulting in internal damage and short circuits. Have your battery terminal checked regularly – especially if you frequently drive on bumpy roads – to ensure it is tightly and properly positioned in the mounting bracket.

3. Turn Off All the Lights When You Exit

Accidentally keeping your headlights and car door lights on can put a heavy toll on your vehicle’s battery To keep yourself from forgetting, post a note on your dashboard, attach a sticker reminder on your car remote or park in a direction where you must walk past your headlights to get to your destination.

4. Control the Corrosion

Battery terminals corrode over time but keeping them clean from buildup is a great way to extend the life of your car battery. Scrub the terminals with a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda and water mixture. Then, using a spray bottle with cold water, rinse the mixture off and follow up with a thorough drying with a clean cloth.

5. Test Your Battery Often

Knowing the condition of your car battery matters when you want to maximize its life. Test your battery’s output voltage level with a car battery tester to keep track of how well you’re maintaining it and if you’re due for a new one.

6. Don’t Use Electronics While Idling

Turn off functions like the radio or air conditioner when your engine isn’t running to put less wear and tear on your battery power. Extended periods of idling also can wear a battery down.

7. Care for Your Whole Car

Your car is comprised of many parts working together. Making sure you are taking your car in for routine tune ups, as well as properly storing your vehicle are also simple ways to ensure your battery’s lifespan can reach its full capacity. The battery is just one component of a well-running car, so make sure to properly maintain all parts of your car to extend its life and the life of your battery.

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Tips for driving at night

Driving a car at night doesn’t have to be intimidating. Follow these tips to reduce the risk and drive with greater confidence after the sun has gone down.

1. Avoid driving while tired

The less rested you are, the less attentive you’ll be while driving. If you feel your eyelids growing heavy and your attention span waning, it’s time to take action. Caffeine, listening to music, or getting some fresh air by opening a window can all help increase alertness. But if nothing is working, it’s important to be honest with yourself. Instead of taking a risk to push through the fatigue, find somewhere safe to stop and rest. Whether it’s just a couple of hours to recharge or a full night’s sleep, don’t be afraid to give yourself the time you need.

2. Try to steer clear of two-lane highways

You’re driving down a two-lane highway at night, not another car in sight, you go around a turn, and suddenly you’re being blinded by a pair of high beams. That’s the risk that comes with driving on two-lane highways at night. Try to avoid the glare from oncoming headlights by sticking to roads with multiple lanes, if possible. You can minimize that blinding effect by simply moving over to the rightmost lane.

3. Clean your windshield and mirrors

Visibility is a huge part of safety when driving at night. The better you can see, the safer you’ll be. This means ensuring your windshield and mirrors are all clean and clear. A dirty windshield scatters light and worsens the effects of glare, so don’t be afraid to hit the windshield cleaner as often as you need.

4. Modify interior car lights

Light sources inside your car can create a distraction as your eyes move between the road outside and the dashboard. To counteract this, keep unnecessary interior lights off and dim the brightness of your display lights. You should still be able to see important features like your speedometer without risking distraction from excessive light.

5. Adjust your headlights

Your headlights are the star of the show when driving at night, so be sure they’re ready to perform. The protective plastic on them should be kept clean and the bulbs within should be bright enough to do their job. The angle your headlights are facing also matters. Too low and you won’t be able to see what’s ahead, but too high and you risk impairing the vision of oncoming traffic. If you aren’t able to adjust your headlights on your own, a dealership or auto shop can help.

6. Use high beams when appropriate

Properly functioning high beams dramatically improve visibility and can create much safer driving conditions, especially in poorly lit areas like back roads. But the power of these brighter lights can easily blind other drivers coming in the opposite direction, so switch to low beams when you spot oncoming traffic.

7. Slow down when driving at night

When you consider the reduced visibility and increased likelihood of encountering drivers who aren’t giving the road their fullest attention, it’s easy to understand why you should drive slower at night. Driving slower is the best way to ensure you have as much time as possible to react to anything unexpected, whether that’s a deer in the road or you’re approaching a stop sign.

Be extra mindful of your speed if road conditions are wet or icy. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recommends reducing your speed by one-third during rainy weather and one-half for snow.2 You should also watch your speed while approaching a vehicle going slower than you.

There should be about a three-second difference between you and any car in front of you. That means if the car in front passes a telephone pole, three seconds should elapse before you pass it. This rule applies at all times of the day, but it’s particularly important at night.

While it’s clear that driving a car at night poses increased safety risks, knowing what to watch out for and being proactive will help keep you safe. Plan your route, make smart decisions, and follow the tips in this article to make the driving experience a safer one for you and everyone else on the road.

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