Vehicle Exhaust System

A vehicle exhaust system is used to convert exhaust gases from the engine.
Exhaust systems do the following:

• Reduce noise
• Improve overall vehicle performance
• Improve fuel consumption

See a professional technician if you experience the following:

• Excessive noise from the exhaust
• Rust, corrosion or holes throughout
• Gas leaks or smells
• Loose brackets

The general components of an exhaust system are (also see diagram below):

-Exhaust Manifold: Connected to the engine and the front pipe. This piece is made of strong material to carry our high heat and convert the exhaust gases.

-Catalytic Converter: Cleans the exhaust gases. (All new vehicles must have a proper catalytic converter in order to pass inspection).

-Muffler: Controls the sound of the exhaust.

-Exhaust pipe and brackets: Carry the exhaust gases throughout the system. (Should be replaced periodically because of potential rust and corrosion).

There are also other components and custom parts such as pipes for duel exhaust that are more personal preference.

Warning: Some damaged exhaust systems with rust and corrosion create holes throughout the system which can emit very dangerous gases.

Exhaust System Diagram

Winter Driving

Winter Tires

Tires are crucial in the winter season, whether you choose to purchase the snow tire or drive with the all season performance tire.  Make sure your tread depth, weight of air and all around performance are up to par.  It is still important to understand that while the snow tire can be expensive there are many benefits.

Snow Tire Benefits:

-Maximum road grip for ice, slush and snow

-Powerful TRACTION

-Longer life span for the snow tire and the other season tire

-Better handling

-Awesome tread design specifically intended for wet surfaces, moving snow and slush and easy braking

-Compound rubber for better handling and grip in freezing and below freezing weather temperatures

Tip: Some winter tires may be labeled "M&S" for mud and snow, but keep in mind, these tires perform almost equal to the all season tire. The ADVANCED HIGH PERFORMANCE TIRE will have a small symbol on the side wall with a mountain and a snow flake (the snow tire seal of approval).  

Snow Tire Symbol (found on side wall)

Sometimes you can also tell by the tread design (larger tread blocks, asymmetrical pattern, more independent grooves, ribs and v-shaped tread groves).

Driving through Winter Tips:

-Shop around, snow tires are worth it!

-Keep checking your tire pressure (maybe every time you pump gas), tires lose pressure in the cold weather.

-If your tread reaches 4/32" (snow or all season), its time to replace them.

-If you purchase snow tires, purchase ALL 4 not 2.

-Snow tires do not mean for cruising care free through icy roads; be mindful, keep a steady sufficient speed, careful acceleration, braking, steering and DONT TAILGATE.

-CHECK:

• Ignition system
• Fuel system
• Belts
• Fluid levels
• Brakes
• Exhaust system
• Wiper blades and windshield washer fluid
• Snow tires
• Tire tread and pressure
• Defroster
• Proper grade oil
• Cooling system
• Battery
• Lights
• Antifreeze 

(from mass.gov)

For more winter driving and tire info visit tirerack.com

We hope this information was helpful, HAPPY WINTER AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Mr Tire Richfield!

Paint Detailing

How to detail paint exterior on any vehicle

Detailing the exterior paint of any vehicle is far more complex than most people might anticipate. It is not just running through a car wash, air drying and applying a wax. In auto detailing, you want to be as thorough as possible, and know exactly what products and equipment (buffers, rotary polisher etc.) are necessary for completing the detail.

Paint imperfections to examine before paint detailing:

• Contaminants 
• Grime
• Tar/ Sap
• Paint fading caused by extreme weather conditions
• Paint swirls
• Scratches
• Oxidation
• Hard water marks

Steps for a successful Exterior Auto Detail:

• Hand wash thoroughly, include wheels, wheel wells and underbody. In some cases apply degreaser to underbody.
• Remove stubborn dirt, tar, bugs, grime or sap with proper chemicals/ products.
• Rinse thoroughly
• Hand dry with proper microfiber towels.
• Examine the paint closely and decide if you need to remove imperfections with a strong or light compound then polish or apply sealant. Some cars that don't have many imperfections won't require a compound, just a polish or paint sealant will do.
• Apply the necessary compound, polish or sealant with proper equipment.
• Apply appropriate dressing to tires, chrome, aluminum and other trim.
• Clean windows
• Apply a final touch.
• SEE YOUR CAR SHINE!

Below is an example of swirl marks that were removed using a strong compound and polish.

Before

After

Spark plugs

Tune-ups/ Spark plugs

*** Bad spark plugs have an impact on fuel economy, engine performance and engine longevity***

# of cylinders = # of spark plugs

Depending on driving habits and environmental conditions, along with the type of vehicle, spark plugs will generally last between 30,000-80,000 miles. (Check owners manual for specifications) Another term used to replacing old spark plugs is a tune-up which sometimes will include other service such as topping fluids and basic inspection depending on the auto repair shop you go to.

What to watch for if spark plugs need replacing:

• Ignition problems
• Hesitation
• Lower gas mileage
• Misfires (which could also be many other issues)

 Note: A misfire is read from a computer diagnostic when the check engine light is on.

 
For a general idea of what spark plugs look like when they are old compared to new see the images below.

Old and used spark plugs

New spark plugs

Struts and Shocks

***For safety reasons, it is important to have properly working struts and shocks, which play a huge role in suspension for dampening movement when your car reacts to new surfaces and environmental conditions.***

Replace shocks and struts when you find wear, damage, rust or leaking.

-The general life expectancy for shocks is about 30,000 to 40,000 miles while struts is about 50,000 to 60,000 miles. This also depends on road condition and driving habits. (Also refer to vehicle owners manual)

-You can also tell if you need to replace shocks and struts by considering how your vehicle handles.
What to watch for:

• Excessive bouncing
• Dipping when braking
• Rolling or swaying
• Tough suspension handling
• Uneven tread on tires
• Bottoming out at dips in the road

Dangers of failing to replace damaged struts or shocks:

• Increase swaying and sliding in ice and rain
• Increase stop time
• Suspension and tire tread wear
• Decreased overall driving and suspension quality

"The Bounce Test"

Another way to see if you need to replace your shocks and struts is by doing a bounce test.

Push down on each corner of the bumper and let up quickly.

If it comes up once and stops the shocks and struts are good, if the bumper bounces they probably need to be replaced. 

The image below gives a general idea of what to look for.

auto-repair-help.com

Brakes

A recommended brake job is based on the condition of the brake pads and rotors.
Brake jobs are generally done about every 30,000 miles which is equal to about two years, depending on driving habits.

How to know when you need a brake job:

• Pulsating or grinding when you brake
• Strange noises when braking or difficulty braking
• Thin, worn or rusted rotors
• 0%-25% remaining material on brake pads (30% or more could mean about 5,000 miles for safe driving)

Tips:
1. The more stop and go driving or city road driving you do, the faster brakes will wear, which will allow for less then the average 30,000 miles life expectancy of the brakes. 
2. When you get to the auto repair shop for a brake job you can ask the technician to show you the pads and rotors to see the width, ware or if there is any rust. The images below give a general idea of what you will be looking at.