Our general FAQ section provides clear answers to the most common automotive questions that apply to all vehicles, regardless of make or model. From understanding routine maintenance schedules and oil change intervals to learning about warning lights, smog checks, brakes, tires, and general car care tips, this category is designed to help every driver. Whether you’re new to car ownership or just want reliable advice, our general FAQs give you the knowledge to keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and road-ready.
What Is the Viscous Coupling in AWD? A viscous coupling in all-wheel-drive (AWD) is a sealed device filled with silicone-based fluid and stacked plates that passively transfers torque between axles when they spin at different speeds; as slip increases, internal shear and heat make the unit progressively “lock,” sending more drive to the axle with …
What “500 lb tongue weight” means—and why it matters when towing It means the vertical load of 500 pounds (about 227 kilograms) that a trailer applies to the hitch ball of the tow vehicle; this can refer either to the actual measured load of a specific trailer setup or the maximum tongue-weight rating of a …
Air-Cooled Engines: The Key Drawback and What It Means for Performance A primary disadvantage of an air-cooled engine is its less precise temperature control, which can cause hot spots and increase the risk of overheating under heavy loads or in high ambient temperatures. This limitation affects durability, efficiency, and emissions compared to liquid-cooled designs, particularly …
Can I Fix My Own Power Steering Pump? Yes, many drivers can replace or repair a traditional hydraulic power steering pump at home with the right tools, time, and a repair manual; however, if your vehicle uses electric power steering (EPS), there is no pump to fix, and electro‑hydraulic units are more complex. The decision …
Is it okay to drive with the TPMS light on? Generally, you can drive a short distance at reduced speed to a safe location to check and inflate your tires if the TPMS light is on and the car feels normal, but you should not continue driving for long or at highway speeds. If the …
Can You Really Drive 10,000 Miles on Synthetic Oil? Yes—many modern cars can safely go about 10,000 miles between oil changes with the correct full-synthetic oil and an appropriate filter, under normal driving and when you follow the vehicle’s oil-life monitor or maintenance schedule. However, it isn’t universal: severe driving, certain engines (especially turbocharged direct-injection), …
Is It Worth Replacing a Car Radiator? Yes—if your radiator is leaking, clogged, or structurally damaged, replacing it is usually worth it because overheating can destroy an engine and transmission, leading to repairs far costlier than a new radiator. In other situations—like a bad cap, failing fan, or minor hose leak—targeted fixes can restore cooling …
How Much Should You Tip for a $100 Car Detail? For a $100 car detail in the U.S., a typical tip is $15–$20 (15–20%). Consider $10 (10%) for a basic job, and $20–$25 (20–25%) for exceptional results or extra-labor situations like heavy pet hair or stains. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s customary and appreciated—especially when …