Boulder Auto Repair

When winter arrives in Colorado, the temperature isn’t the only thing that drops – your tire pressure does too! As the mercury falls, the air inside your tires contracts, causing a decrease in pressure. This can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, uneven tire wear, and even safety risks. Let’s dive into why tire pressure matters and how to keep your tires road-ready this winter. Why Does Tire Pressure Drop in Cold Weather? For every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, your tires can lose about 1-2 psi (pounds per square inch). For example, a tire properly inflated at 35 psi when it’s 70°F may drop to around 30-31 psi at 20°F. Since Colorado winters often bring significant temperature swings, this change can catch drivers off guard. Low tire pressure impacts more than just your ride comfort. It increases rolling resistance, which means your car has to work harder, lowering fuel efficiency. It also leads to uneven tire wear, shorteni ... read more

Hearing a clicking noise when you turn the wheel of your Ford Explorer can be unsettling. While this sound might not seem like a big deal at first, it could indicate an issue that needs prompt attention. Let’s break down the common causes and why it’s important to address them. Common Causes of Clicking Noises When TurningWorn CV Joints If your Explorer is equipped with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, clicking noises could stem from worn constant velocity (CV) joints. These joints are crucial for transferring power to your wheels while allowing them to turn. Over time, the protective boot can crack, allowing grease to escape and dirt to get in, which wears down the joint. Faulty Wheel Bearings Damaged or worn wheel bearings can also cause clicking noises when turning. This issue often worsens over time, leading to vibrations or a grinding noise if left unchecked. Loose or Damaged Suspension Components ... read more

Winter in Boulder, Colorado, brings breathtaking snowy landscapes and plenty of opportunities for skiing at Eldora and the resorts on the I70 corridor, but it also delivers frigid temperatures that can wreak havoc on your car’s battery. Understanding how cold weather affects your battery and taking steps to maintain it can save you from the frustration of a vehicle that won’t start on a chilly morning. Why Cold Weather Drains Your Battery Car batteries rely on a chemical reaction to generate electricity. When temperatures drop, these chemical reactions slow down, reducing the battery’s ability to produce power. At 32°F, a battery operates at about 80% of its capacity; at 0°F, that drops to just 60%. Simultaneously, your car’s engine demands more power to start in the cold due to thicker oil and sluggish engine components. This combination puts your battery under serious strain. Signs Your Battery May Be Struggling He ... read more