Dave’s Free Car Repair Advice

I’ve been checking out extended automobile warranties online, since my car warranty will expire soon. When you buy a new car, an automotive car warranty is always included and covers services, repair, and replacement of the car’s parts for a set period of time or miles. Once that time period or number of miles has passed, though, if you still want to have a warranty on your car you have to buy an extended warranty.

If you buy a pre-owned car, used car warranties are available and you might want to look into them as a safety net. I want a warranty where I can transfer it if I sell the car. That’s a bonus for any car or truck buyer.

Richie wrote in and said that when he steps on the gas pedal at times it seems like it is not getting fuel, the car stalls, and then it seems fine for awhile.

Richie, I don’t know what year your vehicle is but if it uses an older carburetor it would be the accelerator pump in the carb. If it is fuel injection it could be fuel pump pressure or the air filter. I need more info on the year and model of your car. Thanks Dave

Now is the time to have your car in its best running condition for the best fuel economy possible.

Here are a few tips to keep up on your vehicle:

1. First, check your tire pressure on all 4 tires. On a normal car they should read between 32 and 35 psi when the tire is cold. Be sure all tires have the same pressure.
2. If your car is pulling to the left or right while traveling, have the alignment checked. Those with front wheel drive vehicles should get front and rear aligned to insure straight driving.

I want to explain a couple things that people should do when they buy a used car, just to prevent any future unforeseen breakdowns. This will go just a bit beyond lifting the hood or listening to the running machinery while the engine is running or while driving.

I have found that with the day and age of serpentine belts with a tensioner and an idler pulley that these two items can go out without too much warning and should be replaced as soon as you buy a used car.

Have you wondered about which oil to use in your car when you get an oil change, and the importance of the proper viscosity (thickness)?

First thing I’ll say is that we all have our favorite brand of oil in which we all totally believe in, which is OK as long as it is of a high quality and NOT paraffin (wax) based. There is a wide variety of popular brands to choose from, some being synthetic, synthetic blend or good ol’ motor oil. My suggestion is to use the manufacturers recommended oil type.