Columbus Auto Repair

When it comes to understanding how your car's steering system works, the tie rod is an essential component that often goes unnoticed. But what exactly is a tie rod, and how does it contribute to the smooth steering of your vehicle? We'll explain the role of tie rods in your car's steering mechanism and why keeping them in good condition is vital for your safety and driving comfort.   Steering Tie Rods Tie rods are a fundamental part of your vehicle's steering system. They connect the steering gear, or rack and pinion, to the steering knuckle, allowing your wheels to turn when you rotate the steering wheel. Essentially, tie rods act as a bridge, transferring the motion and force from the steering gear to the wheels, enabling precise control over your vehicle's direction.   How Tie Rods Work The function of tie rods can be broken down into a few key steps. When you turn your steering wheel, the steering gear mo ... read more

We've all been there – you're driving along, enjoying your day, when suddenly you hear that unmistakable thump-thump-thump of a flat tire. It's frustrating and inconvenient, but knowing how to change a flat tire can turn a potential disaster into a minor bump in the road. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can get back on your way in no time.   Gather Your Tools Before you even hit the road, make sure you have the necessary tools to change a flat tire. You should always have the following items in your vehicle: Spare tire (properly inflated) Jack Lug wrench Wheel wedges Flashlight (with extra batteries) Gloves Reflective triangles or flares Having these tools on hand will ensure that you're ready to handle a flat tire, no matter where you are.   Step 1: Find a Safe Location Safety first! If ... read more

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your car breaks down, and you're unsure whether it's safe to drive or if you need to call for a tow? Making the right decision can be crucial for your safety and the condition of your vehicle. In this article, we'll explore various scenarios where towing may be necessary and help you make an informed choice between towing and driving. Engine Overheating If your engine temperature gauge spikes into the red zone, it's a clear sign of overheating. Driving with an overheated engine can cause severe damage, including blown gaskets or even engine failure. To prevent further damage, it's best to pull over immediately and call for towing. Transmission Failure When your transmission fails, you may experience symptoms such as grinding noises, slipping gears, or difficulty shifting. Continuin ... read more

Brakes are a critical safety component of any vehicle, but how do you know when it's time to replace them? These warning signs indicate your brakes may need attention to help you stay safe on the road. Squealing or Grinding Noises One of the most common indicators of worn brake pads is a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes. This noise is caused by a wear indicator built into the brake pad, alerting you that it's time for a replacement. If you hear a grinding noise, it could mean the brake pads have worn down completely and metal is grinding against metal, posing a serious safety risk. Vibrations or Pulsations If you feel vibrations or pulsations through the brake pedal or steering wheel when you apply the brakes, it could indicate warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can affect the braking performance, causing uneven braking and longer stopping distances. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further damage to the braking sys ... read more

Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their condition crucial for safety and performance. One vital aspect of tire health is tread depth, which directly impacts traction and handling. Let's take a look at two straightforward methods to measure tire tread depth and ensure your tires are road-ready.   The Penny Test - A Classic Approach  Step 1: Grab a Penny The penny test is a tried-and-true method for checking tire tread depth using nothing more than a common coin. First, locate a penny and ensure that President Lincoln's head is facing you. Step 2: Insert the Penny Place the penny into a tread groove with Lincoln's head facing down. Ensure that the penny is inserted with the top of Lincoln's head pointing toward the tire. Step 3: Evaluate Tread Depth Observe how much of Lincoln's head is visible above the tread surface. If the top of Lincoln's head is fully visible, it indicates ... read more