How to Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter Weather

Posted on November 14, 2022 by gcsjunk

Seasonal car care is important for a number of reasons. First, different weather conditions can have different effects on your car. For example, extreme cold can cause the battery to lose power and oil to thicken. Second, seasonal changes can also affect the tires. In the winter, it’s important to have snow tires or all-weather tires to make sure you have good traction. In the summer, it’s important to have tires with good tread to prevent hydroplaning. Third, seasonal car care can help you save money in the long run. By keeping your car in good condition and catching small problems before they become big ones, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.

So, don’t neglect your car this season – give it the care it needs to stay running smoothly all year long! For now, scroll down and let’s talk about how you can prepare your vehicle for safe driving and optimal efficiency this winter!

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Car Care in the Winter

If you live in an area of Indiana that got hit by all this snow, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is prepared. Here are some tips for getting your car ready for the cold:

▶ Check your tires. Make sure they have enough tread and are properly inflated. Consider getting winter tires if you anticipate that will be driving in snowy or icy conditions.

▶ Get your battery tested. Cold weather can put a strain on your battery, so it’s important to make sure it’s in good condition.

▶ Fill up your windshield washer fluid. You’ll be using it more often in the winter, so it’s good to have a full reservoir.

▶ Check your lights. Make sure all your bulbs are working and that your headlights are properly aligned.

▶ Keep an emergency kit in your car. This should include things like a blanket, first-aid kit, snacks, and a flashlight.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle is ready for winter weather.

How to Drive in Snowy Weather

When driving in snowy weather, be sure to take it slow and easy. Accelerate and brake gently to avoid skidding. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, and use your low beams to see better. If you get stuck in the snow, don’t panic! Try to back up slowly and use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels.

Here are some more safe driving tips to help you stay safe on the roads:

1. Slow down and allow for extra time to reach your destination

2. Increase your following distance from the car in front of you.

3. Use low gears when going up hills to avoid slipping.

4. Be extra cautious when making turns, and avoid sudden stops or starts.

5. Watch out for pedestrians, who may be more difficult to see in the snow.

By following these simple tips, you can help make sure everyone stays safe on the roads this winter.

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The Cost of Engine Repair and Replacement in the US

Posted on October 19, 2022 by gcsjunk

The cost of vehicle maintenance and repairs is on the rise. According to AAA, the average cost of maintaining and repairing a vehicle in the United States is now $1,049 per year. That’s up from $1,021 just a year ago. One of the most expensive automotive repairs is engine replacement. Aside from replacing a motor altogether, engine repairs are also on the higher end of costly auto repairs.

Continue below to learn some important facts about the cost of engine repair and replacement in the United States, including what to do if you cannot afford to repair or replace your car’s motor in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Average Prices for Engine Repair and Engine Replacement

Overhauling or replacing an engine is one of the most expensive auto repairs, typically costing several thousand dollars. Depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the severity of the damage, the cost of engine repair or replacement can vary widely.

According to Consumer Reports, the average cost to replace a car engine is $4,858. This figure is based on data from 2014-2017. The cost will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle as well as the labor costs in your area. If you are considering replacing the engine in your car, it is important to get multiple quotes from qualified mechanics to ensure you are getting the best price.

The average cost to repair a car engine can vary depending on the type of engine, but it can be quite expensive. Many people choose to replace their car engine instead of repairing it, but this can be a very costly option.

Tips for Managing High Auto Repair Costs

If you’re facing a costly engine repair or replacement, there are a few things you can do to help ease the financial burden. Many insurance companies offer auto repair coverage, which can help pay for some or all of the costs associated with engine repairs. You may also be able to finance the repairs through your car dealership or a third-party lender.

If you are considering repairing your car engine, it is important to get a few quotes from different mechanics to compare prices. You should also ask about the warranty that is offered with the repair. Some mechanics may offer a warranty on their work, but it is important to read the fine print before you agree to anything.

If you find yourself in need of engine repair or replacement, be sure to shop around and compare pricing from different mechanics or auto shops. It’s also a good idea to get a second opinion before proceeding with any repairs, just to be sure that the work is necessary and that you’re getting the best possible price.

Of course, the best way to avoid the high cost of engine repairs is to take good care of your car and have it regularly serviced by a qualified mechanic. By following this simple advice, you can help keep your car’s engine in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.

When Engine Repair Costs More Than Your Car’s Total Worth

If your engine repair or replacement costs are higher than your car’s total market value, it is considered to be a total loss vehicle, which means totaled. Total loss vehicles are those that have been damaged to the point where repairs would cost more than the vehicle is worth, or that have been declared a total loss by an insurance company. If you own a total loss vehicle, you may be able to sell it for scrap value or parts at a local Louisville auto salvage yard.

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Easy Guide to Jump Starting a Dead Car Battery

Posted on October 6, 2022 by gcsjunk

A car battery can die for a number of reasons. The most common cause is simple – age. Batteries have a natural lifespan, and after a few years they just stop being able to hold a charge. Other causes of battery death include extreme temperatures, loose or corroded connections, and electrical issues within the car itself.

Continue below to learn more about car battery care, including how to jump start a dead car battery using a set of jumper cables and a good Samaritan.

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Car Battery Maintenance

Despite what some people may think, it’s actually quite easy to prevent a battery from dying prematurely. The most important thing to do is to keep it clean. Dirty batteries are more likely to corrode, and corrosion can lead to all sorts of problems. If you live in an area with cold winters, make sure to keep your battery warm – either by storing it in a garage or by using a battery blanket. And finally, if you suspect that your car has any electrical issues, get them fixed as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues will only make them worse, and they could eventually lead to your battery dying.

It’s important to maintain your car battery to extend its lifespan and keep it working properly. Here are a few tips on how to do so:

▶ Keep it clean – free of dirt, corrosion, and other debris.

▶ Check the water level regularly and top it off with distilled water if necessary.

▶ Inspect the terminals and connections to make sure they’re tight and free of corrosion.

▶ Have the battery tested regularly to check its performance and identify any potential issues.

▶ If your battery is more than 3 years old, consider replacing it.

Following these tips will help you keep your car battery in good condition and prevent any problems down the road.

How to Jump Start a Dead Battery

A car battery can die suddenly and without warning. If you’re lucky, it will happen when you’re at home or work and you can call a friend or tow truck to help. But if it happens when you’re out and about, you’ll need to know how to jump start your car battery. It’s actually not that difficult, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your car.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

■ Jumper cables
■ Another car with a working battery
■ A set of instructions

Here’s How To Do It:

1. Park the working car next to the car with the dead battery, making sure that the two batteries are not touching.

2. Turn off all lights and accessories in both cars.

3. Connect one end of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.

4. Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.

5. Connect one end of the negative (black) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.

6. Connect the other end of the negative jumper cable to a metal part of the car with the dead battery. This helps to ground the circuit and prevents sparks.

7. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.

8. Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t start, check the cables to make sure they’re all connected properly and try again.

9. Once the car with the dead battery is running, disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order that you connected them.

Congratulations! Your battery should be charged up again!

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Check These 6 Automotive Fluid Levels in Your Car Right Now

Posted on August 22, 2022 by gcsjunk

Part of being a safe driver is taking good care of your car. A car that is well-maintained and properly serviced will perform better, and therefore, keep you and your passengers safer. An important element of best practice car care is automotive fluid management. Your vehicle, no matter which make or model, requires at least 6 essential fluids for optimal performance and safety. These fluids are so important that you should get up right now and check your vehicle’s levels!

Continue below to learn which automotive fluids are the most essential and should be checked on a routine basis.

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6 Essential Automotive Fluids to Check Regularly

The 6 most important automotive fluids that you should check on a weekly and monthly basis include motor oil, radiator fluid (coolant/anti-freeze), transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. In some cases, for vehicles that apply, you will need to address differential fluid levels and battery fluid levels too.

Motor Oil

Also known as engine oil, this automotive fluid might arguably be the most important. Without it, your car simply will not run. Checking your motor oil levels easy and refilling the oil in your car is even easier. You will need to refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil dipstick under the hood of your car. It should be clearly labeled and easy to find. This is the rod that will show you where your motor oil levels are at.

The lower down the rod the motor oil residue is, the less you have. Simply pull it out, wipe it with a cloth, then insert it back in. Then pull it out for inspection. You want the dipstick to be at least halfway covered in oil when you pull it back out. You should have your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or whenever your manual recommends.

Coolant

Your vehicle’s engine gets hot; so hot, that it can damage the internal components and mechanism within the motor and other areas of the vehicle. To regulate engine temperatures, your car relies on radiator fluid, also known as coolant or antifreeze. If your car engine overheats, it is likely due to a low level of coolant. Fortunately, checking and refilling your radiator fluid is just as easy as checking your oil. Simply refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating and refiling your coolant reservoir.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic cars use transmission fluid, which basically works as an internal lubricant to keep the gears shifting smoothly. Without proper transmission fluid levels, your car will begin to experience stress within the transmission system. You might notice slowed or struggling acceleration, shaking, or loud idling.

Checking your transmission fluid levels is the same as checking your oil, expect you do it while the car is running. There should be another dipstick somewhere under the hood of your car. Refer to your owners’ manual for specific instructions unique to your make and model. It is recommended to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or every 3 years, whichever comes first.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is probably the second most important automotive fluid because it supports the ability to stop your car from driving. Having low brake fluid levels will result in delayed braking, brake squealing, and all sorts of other poor brake performance issues. To check brake fluid levels, be sure your engine is off and completely cool. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the brake fluid reservoir. After today, check your brake fluid once per year.

Power Steering Fluid

Most cars require power steering fluid. If you notice that your steering wheel is getting harder to control, you could be low on fluid. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the power steering reservoir, which is usually on the passenger side of the engine. Be sure the engine is off and cold before checking your fluid levels. Your owners’ manual may recommend differently, but the general rule of thumb for changing out power steering fluid is once every 2 to 3 years.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Most often forgotten or overlooked, windshield wiper fluid is an essential part of driver and passenger safety. This is a fluid anyone can re-fill themselves, as needed. Simply by this well-known blue solution at a gas station or auto parts store. Refill as needed.

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3 Easy Ways to Remove Pet Hair From Your Car

Posted on July 13, 2022 by gcsjunk

We love our pets, but we don’t love the mass amounts of hair they leave all around us. One of the most challenging places to abate pet hair is in the car. If your furry friend loves car rides and regularly joins you on your daily drives, then you might need some pet hair removal tips too. Fortunately, pet hair is effortlessly managed with the right knowledge and resources.

Continue below to learn 3 easy ways to removal pet hair from your car!

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Pet Hair Removal For Cars

Want to get all that Labradoodle hair out of your car seats and floor mats? Got a bunch of Retriever fur in the open area trunk? Well, your first step is to make a quick trip to your local convenient or department store for the necessary supplies. What you buy will depend on the particular strategy of pet hair removal you choose, or the one that best meets the needs of your pet’s hair type.

The 3 best tools for eliminating pet hair and fuzz in a car are 1) a rubber kitchen glove; 2) hook-and-loop fastener (Velcro) curlers; and 3) an inflated balloon. These odd-ball items are likely already inside your home! If not, they are very inexpensive and readily available at almost any store. You can even order them online! In worse cases of pet hair, you may need to apply more than one method. Combining one with the others will enhance your results.

How to Remove Pet Hair in Your Car

Rubber Kitchen Glove

To get rid of the pet hair inside of your car with the rubber kitchen glove, all you need to do is put it on your primary hand and start wiping away at all of the fuzzy accumulations. Keep a plastic bag or ways been nearby to periodically dump your clumps. The cleaner you keep the glove, the better it will attract and pick up loose hair on your car seats and upholstery.

Velcro Curlers

Velcro curlers can do more than give your hair bounce and volume. They can also be used to brush pet hair out of your car seats, formats, and carpets. It helps to where utility or gardening gloves to protect the palms of your hands from the hook-and-loop fasteners on the curlers.

Inflated Balloon

Have you ever rubbed an inflated balloon on somebody’s head before? It causes the hair to rise. You can use this same scientific principle to lift pet hair out of your car seats and carpeting. Foil balloons do not work well for this. Opt for a standard latex balloon instead.

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What it Means When the Check Engine Light Comes On

Posted on June 8, 2022 by gcsjunk

Uh oh. The one light on your dashboard you don’t want to see come on just did. What does it mean when your Check Engine Light lights up? Well, the answer isn’t always so clear. Continue below to learn some top reasons why Check Engine Lights come on, plus what you should do now that yours is illuminated.

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Check Engine Light Basics

Also known as a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), the Check Engine Light is designed to do just that: indicate when there is a malfunction occurring within one of the systems in your vehicle. Is your Check Engine Light solid or flashing? In most cases, this light will illuminate in a solid orange, yellow, or amber color. If the Check Engine Light is flashing, it is typically indicative of a more serious automotive malfunction or breakdown.

Common Causes of an Illuminated Check Engine Light

In most cases, a Check Engine Light will come on because the gas cap is loose or needs replaced. So, always check this first before moving forward with diagnosing and illuminated Check Engine Light. In moderate cases, the Check Engine Light will illuminate if one of the vehicle’s internal systems is experiencing a malfunction or decline in performance. In serious cases, a Check Engine Light can come on as a result of misfiring, an overheating catalytic converter, or an internal fire hazard. In these occurrences, the MIL will generally present itself in flashing form. In rare cases, the MIL will illuminate for no reason at all.

One of top reasons why Check Engine Lights come on is because a part needs to be replaced, such as:

↔ Mass Airflow Sensor
↔ O2 Sensors
↔ Catalytic Converter
↔ Ignition Coils
↔ Spark Plugs
↔ Fuel Injectors
↔ Thermostat
↔ Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) Purge Control Valve
↔ Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) Purge Solenoid

How to Diagnose a Check Engine Light

There are two ways you can go about diagnosing the reason why your vehicle’s Check Engine Light came on. You can take your car into a local auto shop and have a mechanic diagnose the issue using an industry specific code reader. You can also choose to purchase your own code reader and perform diagnostics yourself. You can expect a mechanic to charge you anywhere from $75 dollars to $120 for Check Engine Light diagnostic service.

Over-the-counter code readers drastically range in price, anywhere between $25 and $800, so you have quite the selection to choose from. The pricier the device, the more accurate the readings are likely to be. Also, the more expensive code readers typically offer additional features separate from Check Engine Light diagnostics. This is why they cost more. The cheaper code readers may not provide the most accurate diagnostics, which may require you to take it in for professional service in the end. So, he was when making your purchase selection. If you are going to perform your own Check Engine Light diagnostics.

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Why Did My Car Battery Corrode?

Posted on May 31, 2022 by gcsjunk

As someone who’s been driving for many years, you’ve come to learn quite well the importance of your car battery. Car batteries work ongoing maintenance and routine replacement. Without proper care, car batteries will decline in both efficiency and performance. If you’ve been having problems starting or maintaining charge in your car battery, you might want to pop open the hood and take a look at its current condition. If you notice a white, scum like film accumulating around and within the battery terminals, it is an indication of battery corrosion.

Continue reading to learn more about battery corrosion, including what causes it to happen and what you can do about it.

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Identifying Car Battery Corrosion

Car battery corrosion is common, especially in old car batteries. It is easy to diagnose a corroded car battery because the bright crust that forms on and around the battery terminals is hard to miss. It looks similar to dried-up toothpaste, ranging in colors from white to greenish or light blue hues. It starts white, but once, but upon exposure to moisture, it will turn to a greenish or blue color. Furthermore, corrosion crust accumulates in large masses, so once it is discovered, there is usually a large deposit to deal with.

What Causes a Car Battery to Corrode?

When a car battery is corroded, the crust impedes the electrical connection because it is a bad conductor of electricity. It causes a transient current flow, which means the electricity circles right back to the battery just keep the battery charged. Your car might turn on, but the engine will not be able to start.

The most common causes for car battery corrosion development include overcharging, gas escape, and old age. If your car battery is overcharged, the fluid within the battery terminals will expand. This will cause an overflow of liquid inside of the car battery, which can basically flood the terminals with acid. Acid causes corrosion, which in turn generates corrosion development.

Gas escape is another common reason why car batteries develop corrosion. This usually depends on the type of car battery and how it’s placed within the vehicle. Car batteries have tiny vents that allow hydrogen gas to flow through them. Sometimes these hydrogen gases can come in contact with the battery terminals or car cables, thus triggering corrosion. As already mentioned, old car batteries are more prone to car battery corrosion.

What To Do About Battery Corrosion

If your car battery is corroded, you must take a closer look to determine your compatible options. You see, just because a car battery is corroded does not mean that it is junked. It is possible to clean the corrosion off of a car battery, so long as you have the right materials and use the right methods. If your battery is new, you should try cleaning the corrosion before replacing the battery altogether. If your battery is old, or approaching the 4 to 5 year mark, battery replacement is the best option for you. Sell your used car battery to a Louisville scrapyard for cash on the spot!

To clean the corrosion off of a car battery, you will need baking soda, petroleum jelly, anti-corrosion pads, a stiff bristle brush or wire brush, safety goggles, work gloves, clean water, and rags. Always disconnect your battery cables starting with the negative (-) cable first before you begin cleaning your car battery. Combine the baking soda, usually around a teaspoon, with the petroleum jelly to create a paste. Apply the paste all over the corrosion and scrub away with your anti-corrosion pads or stiff bristle brush. Thoroughly rinse the car battery when you are finished, then allow it to dry completely.

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5 Reasons Why Your Car is Shaking and Vibrating

Posted on April 18, 2022 by gcsjunk

A car that is shaking, vibrating, or jerking is not performing the way it was manufactured to. If this describes your current driving experience, you can safely assume there is a malfunction or two happening within your vehicle. Continue reading to learn the top five reasons why your car might be shaking and vibrating, plus what to do if the underlying cause renders your vehicle a total loss.

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Diagnosing Car Shaking and Vibrating

Identifying unusual movement in your car is an important part of car care. It is right to acknowledge car shaking, pulsing, and/or vibrating as unusual vehicular performance. An effective way to determine what is causing the underlying problem behind vehicle shaking and vibrating is to identify when the unusual movements take place. For this reason, it is important to begin your initial examination by asking yourself a few questions.

Does your vehicle shake and vibrate when you are idling? Driving? Speeding? Pressing the brakes?

Do you feel the movement coming from your steering wheel? The seat? The brakes? All around?

Is the movement accompanied with other warning signs, like strange noises or smells?

Has your vehicle sustained any recent impacts, like hitting a pothole or driving over a curb?

The answers to these questions can help you faster identify the problem behind your vehicle shaking and vibrating.

Common Causes of Vehicle Shaking

When it comes to diagnosing car shaking, a mechanic will initially take a look at these five automotive systems and parts:

Tires

If your car tires have uneven wear and tear, poor tread, or the tread has separated, it can cause the vehicle to shake or stagger while driving. To fix this issue, you will need to take your car into a local shop for tire balance and rotation service. If your tires are too worn, you may need to replace some altogether.

Wheels

Do you feel the shaking when you are driving? More so at higher speeds? Do you feel it below your feet, coming from underneath the car? Like tires, poor wheel condition can also cause cars to shake, jerk, or pulsate. In most cases, a quick trip to the tire shop for a wheel rotation and tire balance will fix this problem. However, the car shaking could be caused by loose lug nuts or broken bearings.

Steering and Suspension

Your vehicle’s steering and suspension system can fall subject to certain malfunctions that can cause vehicular jerking and shaking. This underlying culprit usually presents itself when accelerating. If you feel the shaking in your car increase as you speed up or take off from a stopped position, it could be due to problems within the steering and suspension system. Such problems include a broken drive shaft, worn CV joint, or even a bent axle.

Brakes

Faulty or defective brakes are a common cause for car shaking. If you are feeling this happening when you are pressing on the brake pedal or coming to a stop, your car could be experiencing physical defects with the brake pads, brake rotors, or disc brakes. If you feel the vibrations and jerking mostly in the steering wheel, or smell a burning odor when it happens, it is likely due to a stuck brake caliper.

Engine

If this is happening to your car when you drive or stopped in idle, the engine could be the area of concern. In most cases, it signifies that the car engine is not getting enough spark, air, or fuel. In most cases, bad spark plugs or wires are to blame. Dirty or clogged air filters and loose motor mounts have also been known to cause this problem.

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Did My Car Battery Die Prematurely?

Posted on March 30, 2022 by gcsjunk

Did you recently replace your car battery with a new one, and now your new one is dead? If so, you are probably puzzled as much as you are frustrated. After all, car batteries cost money, your hard-earned money; plus, they are required if you want your car to get you to where you need to be, like work or school. So, why did your car battery die so soon?

Continue below to learn how long car batteries are designed to last, plus which factors can drain a car battery faster.

Average Car Battery Lifespan

There are several different types of car and truck batteries on the market. However, the average automotive battery is designed to last between three and five years. If your new car battery recently died after replacing it, this bit of information might frustrate you even more. But there could be good reason why your car battery died prematurely.

Things That Drain a Car Battery Faster:

Driving Patterns

Your driving patterns and habits can have a significant impact on the lifespan of your car battery. For instance, if you frequently take short trips, you could be further draining your car battery. Each time you start your car, you expend more battery power, and short trips on a more frequent basis does not allow your car battery to fully recharge between trips.

If you would leave your car parked for extended periods of time, it can also drain a car battery pretty fast. Car batteries naturally self-discharge after a long period of in-operation, which is why it is recommended to remove car battery before storing a vehicle for an extended period of time.

Weather and Climate

Nature can also play a role in a quickly draining car battery. Extreme temperatures is one of the most common reasons why car batteries drain prematurely. One way to avoid this is covering your car engine with a thermal blanket during the colder seasons. This will keep your car battery and internal components warm, allowing it to work more efficiently.

In extremely hot conditions, car batteries can drain quickly due to heat-induced deterioration. For this reason, it is important to park in the shade or within a structure during the warmer seasons of the year.

Car Maintenance

There is a very good reason why automakers put together a factory scheduled maintenance plan for your make and model vehicle. Proper car maintenance is vital to the safety, longevity, and performance of your vehicle. If you do not take good care of your car battery, it will die prematurely. It is important to have your car battery cleaned on a routine basis to prevent battery corrosion.

If you notice a white or greenish buildup around your battery cells, use an old toothbrush and a baking soda water mixture to gently clean them off. In addition to cleaning your car battery, you want to regularly check that it’s properly mounted and that all cables are fastened. If the car battery gets knocked out of place, even slightly, it can immediately begin overworking, and thus, drain of power faster.

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Which Side is My Gas Cap On?

Posted on January 24, 2022 by gcsjunk

The question of gas cap locations has been floating around for generations. Not sure which side of the car your gas cap is on right now? Is it on your side? Is it on the passenger side? Continue below to learn how to instantly identify which side your gas cap is on without even getting out of your car, plus some industry facts on why gas cap sides are different among vehicles.

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The Frustrating Gas Cap Scenario

We’ve all been there before; whether you’ve just purchased a new vehicle, borrowing someone’s car, or driving a rental, at some point in your driving career you have surely pulled up to the gas station only to instantly remember you have no idea which side the gas. Fortunately, there is an instant hack on how to figure out which side the gas cap is located on a vehicle without even getting out of the car.

Gas Cap Locations are Labeled on the Dashboard

Okay, so you pull up to the gas station and you can’t remember which side the gas. There is an easy trick to figure this out without leaving your car seat. Simply take a look at the dashboard. Although the location can differ, the gas cap location is typically indicated in the fuel gauge.

You should see an arrow or dot next to the fuel tank icon on your dashboard. This is the side your gas cap is on.

Why Gas Cap Sides Can Be Different

You may notice that throughout your life, you’ve had cars with gas caps on the left side and on the right side. Why is this? Well, the location of the gas cap really depends on where the car comes from, namely which manufacturer produces the vehicle.

For instance, Japanese cars like Toyota and Mitsubishi typically place their gas caps on the left side of the vehicle. Japan a left-hand traffic country, so having the gas cap on the left side of the vehicle comes naturally to their culture. In countries with right side driving traffic, having the gas cap on the left side can be beneficial as well. Many car owners prefer the gas cap on the driver’s side.

Additionally, automakers will place gas caps on either side of the vehicle depending on how the vehicle is designed internally. Sometimes certain parts are larger or smaller, and the fuel tank fits better on the left side rather than the right side, or vice versa. In another example, domestic automakers like Chevy and Ford like to place their gas caps on the right side of the car.

Lastly, there are local, state, and federal legal requirements denoting the specifications of fuel tank location in a vehicle. Automakers must follow these regulations to ensure that the location of the fuel tank cannot cause foreseeable ignitions. This is why gas caps are never located in the back of the vehicle. In the case of the collision, it could cause the entire car to ignite into flames.

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