Baltimore & Cockeysville Auto Repair

Have you ever wondered why your vehicle's engine sometimes gets overheated and may even fail to start? The problem could be with its cooling system. Ideally, an automobile's cooling system uses coolant to keep the engine at its best operating temperature. And as the name suggests, your vehicle's antifreeze or coolant protects the engine during the hot summer and cold winter months. This insightful piece is about coolant/antifreeze and what it does. What is Antifreeze/Coolant? As mentioned above, coolant/antifreeze is fluid in an automobile's cooling system that helps raise the system's boiling point while lowering the freezing point. As an alcohol-based additive, antifreeze or coolant is typically colored (ranging from green to red, orange, and blue). Understanding the Difference Between Antifreeze and Coolant The main difference between coolant and antifreeze is in their chemical composition. While coolant mainly consists of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percen ... read more

As the weather starts to warm up, it's important to ensure that your vehicle's air conditioning system is in good working order. We've laid out all the different A/C components you should check before the spring and summer months. Compressor The compressor is the heart of your vehicle's air conditioning system. It compresses refrigerant gas and circulates it through the system to produce cold air. Check the compressor for any signs of damage, such as leaks or cracks. Refrigerant Refrigerant is a substance that absorbs and releases heat to cool the air. Check the refrigerant level and look for any signs of leaks. Low refrigerant levels can cause your A/C system to blow warm air or not work at all. Condenser The condenser is responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerant. Check the condenser for any damage or debris that may be blocking airflow. Evaporator The evaporator is in charge of cooling ... read more

As your teen approaches driving age, you may be feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Teaching your teen how to operate a vehicle can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Below are some tips for teaching your teen how to drive. Start in a Safe Environment Starting in a safe environment is key when teaching your teen how to drive. It could include an empty parking lot or a quiet residential street. It can help your teen feel more comfortable and confident behind the wheel. Be Patient Learning to drive can be overwhelming for your teen, so it's crucial to be patient and supportive. Encourage your teen to take their time and to ask questions if they're unsure about something. Remember, learning to drive is a process, and it takes time to become a skilled driver. Practice Defensive Driving Defensive driving is a vital skill for all drivers, but it's especially important for new drivers. Teach your teen to always be aware of their surroundings and to anticipate pote ... read more

The water pump plays a vital role in the vehicle’s cooling system. It helps keep the engine cool and maintain an optimal temperature. Most vehicles on the road today have sophisticated cooling systems that last longer. However, the water pump is not spared from problems later in the vehicle’s life. That is why we feel like it is necessary to educate our customers on the signs of a failing water pump.  What Are the Signs of a Faulty Water Pump? Whining Sounds - You should never overlook any strange sounds that your car makes. While whining sounds can mean other things, such as bad brakes or failing belts, they can also be the culprit of a bad water pump. When the insides of the pump wear down, it can be noisy when it operates. Coolant Leak - Coolant fluid, antifreeze, and radiator fluid are all the same thing. It is an essential part of the cooling system and is responsible for cooling the engine. If the radiator fluid leaks, make su ... read more

One of the seasons of the year in which it becomes more difficult to drive is winter due to the drop in temperatures. Not only pipes in the house can freeze, but any objects that are exposed to the cold, such as cars and roads. Some tips for safe driving in winter are: • Wear your seat belt: The first thing to keep in mind is that you should not stop wearing a seat belt, not only because of driving regulations but also because in the event of an accident it can save your life. • Have the right tires: Your tires must be able to be properly inflated to control the vehicle. And in icy or snowy places, winter tires are preferred. • Fill your fuel tank: Always keep the tank at least half full. It is possible that the nearby gas station is closed due to bad weather. • You must stay alert: Pay attention to cars in front and behind. If you are tired, don't drive, especially when the weather gets extreme. • Drive slowly: Snow can arrive in quantities that can ... read more