Baltimore & Cockeysville Auto Repair

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

Did you know that more vehicle accidents occur at night than during the day? Of course, it has to deal with minimal visibility. Not to mention, light glares, foggy conditions, or rain and snow can make it even tougher to see. It can be difficult for drivers of all ages, experienced or new.  With daylight savings ending, nearly every motorist on the road has to deal with the difficulties of low visibility as early as 4 or 5 in the afternoon. To ensure you’re safe and your vehicle road-worthy, we thought we’d share these helpful nighttime driving safety tips.  Check Your Vision This might seem silly to throw in our blog, but are your eyes healthy? You should always check your vision on an annual basis. Perhaps, a new pair of glasses or contacts can make driving easier. Furthermore, eyesight tends to worsen with age. Be Well-Rested Driving at night when you’re feeling groggy or sleepy poses major risks of an accident. Not only are you already at a di ... read more

Replacing tires frequently can be one of the most expensive costs that come with owning a car. Most people opt to take care of their wheels instead of replacing them, you can do that too. How can you increase your wheels' lifespan? Rotate your tires regularly It is advised that you spin your wheels every 6,000 to 8,000 miles in order to preserve consistent tread wear and maximize the longevity of your tires. Most tire shops can provide complimentary tire rotation if you purchase a set of wheels from them. Tire rotations are reasonably priced if they don't. Check the air pressure A monthly pressurization assessment is an additional crucial component of tire upkeep. Use a reliable tire pressure sensor to measure the air pressure in the tires early in the morning, before you have operated the car, to obtain the most reliable numbers. Low tire pressure shortens tire life, reduces fuel efficiency, and increases the chance of a disastrous rupture. The majority of automobiles hav ... read more

Owning a vehicle is a major privilege, and it comes with responsibilities too. Once you drive your car, SUV, or truck off the lot, you’re going to need to do more than drive it to  keep it maintained and running. Every vehicle has a certain set of maintenance tasks that it needs over its lifetime. It is your duty to get them done so that your investment lasts a long time.  It will also prevent costly repairs from growing.   While following your maintenance schedule is good practice, there are many mistakes that you can make too. Below are some of the horrible practices of bad vehicle owners that you should avoid doing at all costs: Ignoring dashboard warning lights, specifically the check engine light.  Once you see the infamous check engine warning light come on, it is imperative that you get a proper diagnosis from a professional mechanic. Otherwise, the problem can spread, leaving you stuck on the side of the road. Never changing car fluids and engine o ... read more