Why Are My Brakes Making Noise?

Have you ever been confused as to the sounds coming from your vehicle when you brake? From grinding and rattling to thumping and squealing, you can learn how to decode the sounds, pinpoint their root causes, and figure out what they might mean for the health of your car.

 Common brake noises and their causes

During a commercial vehicle inspection spanning three countries on April 19, 2023, 11.3% of the vehicles inspected were marked as unfit and unsafe for roadways. Among those from the U.S., 11.5% of them were out of service for brake-related violations. Even if you don’t drive a commercial vehicle, you need to know if your car’s brakes are fit for the road. Here are the top noises to listen for that could indicate a brake-related issue in your car:

1. Grinding noise when braking

Grinding noises indicate worn-out brake pads and probably mean that their metal braking plates are rubbing against the brake rotors. If this happens, your brakes won’t work as well and can result in an increased stopping distance and a higher chance of collisions. If left too long, it may damage your rotors or other braking system components.

2. Rattling noise when braking

When you hear a rattling noise, this often indicates loose or worn components in the brake system. This could range from worn brake pads to loose calipers or even issues with the brake shims. If brake pads are too worn, this can result in a warped or distorted rotor, causing a rattle when you hit the brake.

3. Thumping sound when braking

If there’s an issue with the brake drum or rotors, this often results in a thumping sound due to uneven surfaces caused by wear and tear. When the thumping is coming from the front wheels, this can mean your brake rotors are warped or deformed.

4. Squeaking or squealing noise when braking

There are a variety of things that can cause squeaking or squealing while braking, including worn-out brake pads, glazed rotors, dirty brakes, insufficient brake lining or no lubrications on the brakes. If you notice a high-pitched sound while braking, take your car to a professional immediately.

Symptoms of bad brakes

Look out for these top symptoms your brakes could be unsafe and going bad, then take your car into a mechanic:

  • Your brake light is on
  • You hear squeaking or squealing while braking
  • You feel steering wheel vibrations while braking
  • Fluid is leaking
  • The brake pedal feels soft or spongy
  • You notice a burning smell while driving
  • The car pulls to one side 

How often should you have your brakes checked?

A good rule of thumb is to get your brakes inspected at least once a year. If you don’t drive that much, you are using good brake pads or you have good driving habits, you might not need to have them replaced that often. For other info on when to take your car in for maintenance, reference our checklist. Lastly, remember to protect yourself and your vehicle with the proper auto insurance for you.

 

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What Is an Ignition Coil?

An ignition coil, as its name suggests, plays a vital role in igniting the engine. This small yet potent device delivers up to 60,000 volts of power to the spark plugs to ensure your vehicle’s smooth operation. You can find the ignition coil nestled within the engine compartment. The heart of your vehicle’s performance lies in its ignition system, with the ignition coil playing a starring role. Keeping it maintained will help to have a smooth, efficient drive.

What does an ignition coil do?

The ignition coil functions as a power transformer. It takes the 12-volt charge from your car battery and transforms it into something much more potent. This converted voltage, which can reach up to 60,000 volts, is what your spark plugs need to ignite the fuel-and-air mixture within the engine’s combustion chambers. Without a functioning ignition coil, the spark plug would not receive the necessary voltage to create the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mix.

Where is it? The location of your ignition coil depends on the make and model of your vehicle. One common location is attached to the spark plugs on top of the engine block.

Types of ignition coils

Understanding the different types of ignition coils can be incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to maintaining your vehicle or diagnosing potential problems.

Canister-style coils

Conventional ignition coils, often referred to as canister-style coils, were very common in older vehicles. The design of these coils is quite simple: A metal canister houses the primary and secondary windings. They typically sit outside the engine and are wired to a distributor, which then takes on the responsibility of distributing the high voltage from the coil to the spark plugs. Despite their simplicity, conventional ignition coils are known for their durability and reliability.

Distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils

As technology advanced, so did ignition coils. Enter the distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils. These coils represent a significant step forward in ignition technology. Instead of relying on a distributor, DIS coils are usually mounted directly on or near the spark plugs. Each coil is tasked with supplying high voltage to a specific spark plug. This design allows for more precise timing of spark production for each cylinder, thanks to the use of sensors. The result is improved ignition performance and efficiency over conventional coils.

Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils

Taking the concept of DIS coils a notch higher, we have the coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils. In a COP system, each cylinder gets its own personal ignition coil, which is mounted directly on the spark plug. This setup eliminates the need for spark plug wires, allowing for even more precise and efficient ignition. COP ignition coils provide enhanced spark energy and better control over combustion. The outcomes are improved engine performance and reduced emissions.

Signs of a bad ignition coil

How can you tell if your ignition coil is failing and needs attention? Here are some common signs:

  1. The check engine light is on: If it illuminates, it could be indicating a problem with your ignition coil.
  2. The engine misfires: Should your ignition coil begin to fail, it might fail to supply adequate voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in misfires.
  3. Starts are difficult: When spark plugs aren’t receiving enough power to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine, your vehicle will have a hard time starting.
  4. Fuel economy decreases: A failing ignition coil can disrupt the balance of fuel consumption and power generation, leading to less-than-optimal fuel economy.
  5. Power begins to lag: A bad ignition coil might not supply enough power to the spark plugs, resulting in reduced engine performance.
  6. The engine backfires: This might indicate a faulty ignition coil failing to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber adequately.

How long do ignition coils last?

On average, a well-maintained ignition coil should last around 100,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on factors like your driving habits, vehicle make and model, and even the climate you live in. It’s important to remember that preventive maintenance is always better than reactive repairs. Regular check-ups can assist in identifying potential issues before they develop into more severe (and expensive) complications. So, if your check engine light has been flickering or your engine is misfiring, it’s best to schedule a visit to your mechanic sooner rather than later.

Understanding your vehicle, including the vital role of the ignition coil, ensures smooth and efficient driving. However, even with impeccable maintenance, unforeseen issues can arise. Having the right auto insurance is key to protecting your car from unexpected repair costs and other road-related incidents. It not only gives you peace of mind but also helps to ensure that you get back on the road without worrying about financial implications.

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What Are The Best Car Colors To Buy?

The color of a car isn’t always an essential deciding factor when you’re making a purchase decision. Nevertheless, it is still quite important to most buyers.

Factors That Can Influence Your Car Color Choice

Choosing the right color can be challenging, though. Aside from aesthetics, other factors like maintenance, resale value, and cost all influence what car color you choose.

Let’s examine some of these factors to find out the best car colors

Personal Taste

When selecting a car color, the buyer’s personal choice is likely the single most important factor.

Color preferences often reflect a person’s personality. Individuals who wish to stand out tend to prefer bright, bold colors that attract attention, such as yellow, red, or green. Colors such as white, silver, gray, and black may appeal to those seeking simplicity.

Choosing a color that you admire will improve your ownership experience and the satisfaction you derive from your car. You’ll feel more satisfied with your car if it comes in a shade that suits you well.

Maintenance

Maintaining the color of your car might be difficult. Aside from pearl hues, other colors, such as black and red, need cautious maintenance since scratches, grime, and dirt are easy to spot.

White, gray, and silver are the most straightforward colors to keep clean. Lighter hues, in contrast to most dark colors, barely show dirt. Darker colors need more effort to look attractive. The deeper the color, the more scratches you’ll notice and the longer you’ll have to spend polishing body panels.

Dark metallic hues are also more prone to wear and require more care. However, these hues are the most eye-catching when they are properly maintained.

Heat Absorption

Metal is a great conductor of heat. A car coated in a dark hue will have higher heat-absorbing tendencies. Studies have shown that darker colors absorb more heat than lighter ones. Dark-colored cars absorb more heat, making the car hotter. On the other hand, lighter colors reflect heat well.

Cost

Some car manufacturers offer models in specific colors at an additional cost. For instance, Toyota’s Pearl White color is frequently more expensive than other regular colors. Mazda’s flagship Soul Red Crystal and Machine Gray hues are likewise more costly. Getting such branded car colors costs extra money.

Resale Value

The color of a car can have an effect on its resale value. Many buyers choose to buy white, black, gray, or silver cars because they retain their value better. If your car is a flashier color, you may have difficulty selling it.

There is a common misconception that brighter hues like red increase insurance premiums. This is, however, not the case. The color of a car has no impact on its insurance. The only thing insurance companies care about is the make and model of your vehicle and how much it costs to repair and replace it, among other things.

The Best Car Colors to Buy

Grayscale (Black, white, gray, and silver) colors continue to be the most popular paint colors at dealerships. Car owners like neutral colors because they are easy to clean and retain their value.

These are some of the best car colors based on popular demand:

White

White is one of the best car colors because it conceals dirt, dust, and tiny scratches. Cars painted white also reflect heat effectively, keeping them cooler for longer. Compared to other car colors, white cars generally appear newer for a more extended period of time.

Black

The sleek, glossy appearance of well-executed black paint can impart a sense of style to even the most basic vehicles. However, it fades faster than other colors. A black-colored car reflects heat poorly, and the paint coat can be expensive to maintain.

Gray

Lighter shades of gray, as opposed to black, age nicely, helping to preserve resale value. Grey cars are also straightforward to keep clean because the shade easily conceals dirt, dust, and minor damage.

Silver

Silver-colored cars have a shinier finish than gray cars, and they are excellent at hiding dirt and blemishes. Also, mud that builds on the lower panels is not as evident as on white vehicles.

Red

Red is a popular color for sports cars because of its boldness; it makes a car appear flamboyant and sporty. It’s ideal for drivers who want to stand out in a crowd. It can also effectively conceal filth and muck. However, if the red paint gathers too much dirt, it can quickly become dull. It is a hue that requires a lot of care.

Blue

Blue is popular with drivers who want to portray a calm and composed personality. Darker blue shades convey a more confident and authoritative appearance. However, these various shades of blue are often more challenging to clean and maintain. Darker shades of blue, in particular, may highlight even the tiniest bits of dust and dirt.

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5 Tips to Avoid Animal-Vehicle Collisions

Throughout the year, thousands of animal-vehicle collisions happen across the United States. Encountering wildlife while driving can be dangerous and scary. Often animals will suddenly jump onto a roadway or find themselves in busy, urban areas and in harm’s way.

Knowing what to do when you encounter a large animal on or near a roadway can save your life. Here are five tips that can reduce your risk on the road:

  1. Be vigilant. When driving in the mountains or countryside, a wild animal accident becomes a real possibility. As you drive, always pay attention to what’s around the corner. If you see signs indicating the presence of wildlife activity, slow down, practice caution, and expect the unexpected. Keep in mind that some animals move in groups. If you spot one, there may be more nearby. 
  2. Reduce your speed. If you spot an animal in the road, immediately reduce your speed and, if necessary, come to a complete stop. You want to avoid, if possible, having to slam on your brakes at the very last moment. The sooner you spot the animal, the more time you will have to safely apply the brakes and avoid a wild animal accident. If it’s a large animal, such as a deer or moose, wait for it to move out of the road. If you encounter a deer, flashing your lights or honking your horn may encourage it to move.  
  3. Avoid sharp turns. When drivers unexpectedly encounter an animal on the road, their first impulse is typically to swerve in order to avoid an animal vehicle collision. This is definitely not recommended, as a sharp turn made at the last minute can cause your car to lose control and result in a collision. 
  4. Be extra alert during dusk and dawn. There are specific times when the probability of animal accidents with cars increases. Be on your highest alert at dusk and dawn, when animals tend to be especially active. Deer is most active during evenings and nights, when they are hardest to spot. 
  5. Seasonal factors. To avoid a wild animal accident, be extra vigilant during peak season. Early autumn is mating season for moose and other animals, so they are on the move. A deer is most visible during fall and early winter. As spring approaches, deer and other animals in the wild begin venturing out with their families and can be spotted along mountain and country roads.  
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5 SIGNS OF A DIRTY AIR FILTER

It’s easy to forget about important technical aspects such as engine filters during regular day-to-day driving. Engine filters work to keep the engine free from debris and pollutants. Over time a car’s filter will always get dirty. Dirty air filters restrict airflow into the engine, eventually hurting a vehicle’s performance. As a responsible owner, it’s important to be aware of signs that indicate an air filter is faulty. Maintain optimal engine performance by keeping your engine free from pollutants. Below is a list of common symptoms the engine air filter should be replaced.

A Decrease in Engine Power

Each drive sucks in contaminated air, and engine filters prevent debris, dust, dirt, and bugs from entering the engine. If the air filter isn’t regularly changed, the filter will become clogged. A clogged prevents an adequate amount of air from getting into the engine. This will lead to the engine running less efficiently than it should. Poor acceleration is a telltale sign of a dirty air filter. A clogged air filter can be prevented by changing your air filter every 12,000 miles or so, depending on driving habits.

The Engine Misfires

A dirty air filter decreases the amount of air supplied to the engine. This can lead to an increase in unburned fuel that turns into soot residue. Soot can mound up on the spark plug tips making them unable to deliver a proper spark. In return, the car can jerk, idle, and in some circumstances, the engine can misfire.

Weird Engine Noises

If a car is idling, the engine should give a typical hum. A clogged air filter limits air supplied to the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber, in turn, can sputter, pop, or give cough-like sounds. Odd sounds may also be accompanied by vibrating or shaking.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

Gasoline and air work together to power the engine. Contaminated air filters provide insufficient air, so the engine ends up using more fuel to overcompensate. A noticeable decrease in gas mileage can indicate a bad air filter.

The Engine Filter Looks Dirty.

You can determine an air filter state by popping the hood and giving it a visual inspection. Most Air filters are white. If they’re clean and you illuminate them with a flashlight, you should be able to see through it. Faulty air filters will visibly look caked, clogged, and contaminated

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5 Ways to Be a Defensive Driver

You can’t control what other drivers do. But you can do things to lower your chances of being in a crash. This is what it means to be a defensive driver.

How Do I Drive Defensively?

Before you get behind the wheel, get into the right mindset — be alert and, focused, and watch out for other drivers. Then:

  1. Pay attention to your surroundings. Check your mirrors often and scan to see what’s happening 20 to 30 seconds ahead of you. Keep your eyes moving. If you see an aggressive driver, slow down or pull over. Always keep an eye out for walkers, runners, bikers, and pets along the road.
  2. Keep your speed down. The best way to stay in control of your vehicle is to observe the speed limit. The faster you go, the harder it is to respond if someone pulls out in front of you or runs into the road. And lower your speed when the weather is bad.
  3. Follow the 3-second rule to set a safe following distance. As you drive, look ahead and find a “marker,” like a sign, on the side of the road. When the car in front of you passes it, start counting from 0 to 3. If you reach the marker at the count of 3, you’re keeping a safe 3-second following distance. If not, slow down. When weather or road conditions are poor, increase the distance to 6 seconds.
  4. Cut out distractions. Any activity that takes your attention away — even for a second— is a distraction. It’s dangerous and can lead to a ticket in many states. Stay focused until you reach your destination. You can put your phone away or turn on automatic replies that will tell others you’re busy driving.
  5. Don’t rely on other drivers. Always be considerate of other drivers but look out for yourself. You can’t be sure that another driver will move out of your way or allow you to merge. Instead, assume other drivers might be distracted or don’t see you. Think about what you would do if another car pulls out in front of you. Being prepared is key. Some drivers will run red lights or stop signs, so you need to be ready.
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Don’t Leave These Items in a Hot Car!

As the summertime and hot temperatures become more frequent, the most common reminders for drivers are to be aware of how warm a vehicle can get while parked in the sun and to never leave a child or pet inside that car or truck.

In addition, however, there are many other common items left or stored in a vehicle that hot weather can severely damage, destroy, or even cause to explode.

  • Sunglasses—Plastic frames can soften and warp, changing the fit to your face. Plastic lenses can also warp, making them unusable. Sunglasses with metal frames can get so hot that they can’t be worn until they cool down.
  • Sunscreen—When sunscreen is left in a car, the heat can change its active ingredients, making it less effective or not effective at all.
  • Medicines – Any prescription or non-prescription medicine should be kept at no more than 77 degrees unless it is a medication that needs to be refrigerated, like some insulins, heart and thyroid drugs. Heat can cause the medication to lose its effectiveness.
  • Cosmetics – Make-up can melt and separate, making it unusable.
  • Aerosol Cans – Hairspray, sunscreen, paint, or any material in a pressurized can may explode when temperatures exceed 120 degrees. Personal protection devices such as pepper sprays also fall into this category.
  • Electronics – Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices do not deal well with high temperatures. Batteries and other components inside the device can leak and fail, turning the device into a paperweight. Heat-related damage may not be covered under warranties.
  • Batteries – Face the same issues as electronics. Batteries can deform, leak, and even explode when exposed to high heat for long periods of time.
  • Pens, markers, and crayons – Heat will deform plastic pens and markers. Ink will either evaporate or leak. Crayons will melt into a gooey mess and then harden once temperatures drop.
  • Food—Groceries or leftovers should be considered UNSAFE if left in a hot car for more than an hour. Snacks and candy, especially chocolate, will melt into a gooey mess.
  • DVDs and CDs – These can warp and become unplayable.
  • Beer and Wine—Both of these beverages change composition above 78 degrees. Wine quickly turns into a sour vinegar-like liquid, and beer also turns sour. Cans and bottles may explode if kept at high temperatures for long periods of time, and other alcoholic spirits can change under high heat.
  • Canned and Bottled Soda—High heat can affect the taste and consistency of carbonated drinks. Heat can also affect some soda ingredients, changing the flavor of the drink. In extreme heat, cans and bottles can explode due to heat creating extreme pressure inside the container.
  • Plastic Water Bottles – Avoid using plastic water bottles that have been exposed to sunlight and/or heat. Some bottles can release small amounts of the substance BPA, which has been linked to health risks in high amounts. Avoid this by purchasing BPA-free water bottles or a glass container.
  • Cigarette/Cigar Lighters – Disposable or refillable, the pressurized flammable material will expand under high heat conditions. These can burst and even explode.
  • Credit/debit cards – High heat can cause these to warp or deform and become unusable – even if they’re the new “chip” style card.
  • Latex gloves or other latex items—Latex rubber has a relatively low melting point, so gloves and other latex items can lose their ability to protect or provide a barrier.

One suggestion is to keep an insulated ice chest or cooler in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle. This can offer some short-term protection for items that are exposed to the heat.

And never, never, ever leave children, pets, or the elderly in a car parked in the sun. Not even for a minute.

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7 Tips to Keep Maintaining Your SUV It in Top Condition

SUVs are a popular choice among vehicle owners, thanks to their versatility and capability. Whether you use your SUV for daily commuting, family trips, or off-road adventures, keeping it in top condition is essential for both performance and safety. In this guide, we’ll share seven valuable tips to help you maintain your SUV’s optimal condition and ensure it serves you well for years to come.

1. Regularly Check and Change the Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your SUV’s engine. Regularly check the oil level and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes. Clean and sufficient oil ensures smooth engine operation and prolongs its life.

 

2. Tire Maintenance is Key

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for SUVs, especially if you frequently go off-road. Regularly check tire pressure, alignment, and tread depth. Rotate your tires as recommended to ensure even wear and optimal grip.

 

3. Keep Up with Routine Servicing

Routine servicing is essential to address minor issues before they become major problems. Schedule regular check-ups and maintenance with a trusted car service provider to ensure your SUV runs smoothly.

 

4. Maintain the Braking System

Your SUV’s braking system plays a critical role in safety. Regularly check the brakes, including pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Address any issues promptly to ensure your vehicle stops reliably.

 

5. Check and Replace Filters

Air and cabin filters help maintain air quality and engine efficiency. Replace them as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer to ensure clean air intake and optimal engine performance.

 

6. Keep the Exterior Clean

Regularly wash and wax your SUV to protect its exterior from dirt, debris, and UV rays. A clean exterior not only looks great but also prevents premature wear and tear.

 

7. Drive Responsibly

Your driving habits also impact your SUV’s condition. Avoid aggressive driving, sudden stops, and excessive speed. Smooth and responsible driving can extend the life of your vehicle.

 

 

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Fourth of July Travel Safety Tips

The Fourth of July is a time for celebrating and honoring our country, with many gathering with friends and family, and some travelling to summer destinations. As the holiday approaches, it is important to be aware of the hazards that accompany major holidays, and of the risks of being on the road in the summer heat. Take a moment to review these travel safety tips to ensure the Fourth of July holiday period is as safe and carefree as possible. Remember to call 511 or 911 if you need assistance.

Sometimes with holiday celebrations comes alcohol consumption. Tragically, from 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period. To avoid substance-related incidents:

  • Arrange a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
  • Intervene if you see someone attempting to operate a vehicle while intoxicated.
  • Safely pull over and call 9-1-1 if you suspect a driver on the road to be driving under the influence.

The Fourth of July also brings summer heat that drivers must account for in their travel plans, so keep the following summer driving tips in mind:

  • Always check that the AC is in working order before leaving for a trip.
  • Never leave children or animals in the car, even for a few minutes.
  • High temperatures can affect tire pressure, increasing the likelihood of a blowout, so keep an eye on your tire pressure throughout your trip.
  • Check the cooling system, fluid levels, batteries, lights, and wiper blades.
  • Plan the route ahead to avoid major road congestion and have stopping points planned.
  • Stock the car with plenty of water and snacks, especially when travelling with children.

Holiday weekends should be a time to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family, and planning for safety helps to ensure smooth sailing on all fronts. Keep these tips in mind as we enter the Fourth of July holiday period to ensure roadway safety.

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3 SIMPLE STEPS TO CHECK BRAKE FLUID

Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and irritable, limiting your ability to think and move. Turns out, your car can suffer from dehydration too. Like your body, your car needs fluids to run at its best, fluids like motor oil, windshield wiper fluid, and brake fluid. But while you likely check your oil and wiper fluid every few months, how often do you check your brake fluid? If you’re like most drivers, not all that often.

Checking brake fluid is easier than you think and far more important than you could ever imagine. There’s a lot riding on maintaining optimal brake fluid levels, including your safety, your car’s responsiveness, and its overall lifespan. Without brake fluid, your car or truck won’t stop when you push the brake pedal. Talk about a serious hazard!

HOW TO CHECK BRAKE FLUID

Read on for three simple steps to checking your brake fluid at home. Please keep in mind that these instructions are general guidelines. Consult your owner’s manual for specific information about your vehicle.

  • LOCATE the brake fluid reservoir on your vehicle’s master cylinder, under the hood. Refer to the owner’s manual if you need help.
  • CHECK the brake fluid level against the “maximum” and “minimum” lines on the exterior of the reservoir. They might also be listed as “max” and “min” or similar terms, or represented by depth lines. If you see that the brake fluid is at or near the “minimum” line, it’s likely time for a brake service.
  • EXAMINE the color and clarity of your brake fluid. Old brake fluid tends to be muddy brown/black and looks like used motor oil. Like motor oil, brake fluid gets darker the more grime and debris it picks up. The dirtier it gets, the less effective it becomes. Dark brake fluid is a good sign you should consider a brake fluid flush. However, the only surefire way to know that you need a brake fluid exchange is by testing for copper levels in the fluid, a service that our friendly auto technicians can perform for you.

If checking your brake fluid level isn’t a DIY activity you’re comfortable with, no worries. Feel free to stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care and let our technicians take a look. It’s our job to make sure your brakes are doing theirs!

WHAT IF MY BRAKE FLUID IS LOW?

If you suspect your brake fluid level is low, it’s time to visit a professional, especially if the dashboard brake light has come on too! There could be a leak or your brake pads may need replacing. Either way, leaving it up to chance could mean a scary reduction in brake performance.

CAN I CHANGE MY OWN BRAKE FLUID?

Are you considering changing your brake fluid at home? While checking your brake fluid level can be simple, changing your brake fluid isn’t. Consider leaving a brake fluid refill, change, or flush to the professionals since doing so:

  • Can require a dozen or more tools, some of which are unique to the process.
  • Exposes you to a fluid that can be extremely toxic.
  • Threatens your vehicle’s paint job, since brake fluid can eat away at it.
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