Brakes are one of the most important safety features of your vehicle. Without good brakes, you’re putting yourself, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. Regular brake maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your vehicle is always ready to stop on a dime. But – even with good maintenance – your brakes don’t last forever. Here’s how to know when it’s time to brake it off.

Hey Hey Hey! If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel a soft brake pedal, it’s time to get your brakes checked. These signs indicate worn brake pads or issues with the brake system.
That’s What They Don’t See. Regular brake inspections can help catch issues before they become serious. A professional can assess the condition of your brake pads, rotors, and fluid.
That’s What They Don’t Know. Over time, brake pads wear down. Driving habits and road conditions can affect how quickly this happens. Knowing the signs of wear can help you address issues early.
Brakes Are Gonna Brake. Ignoring brake issues can lead to more expensive repairs, like damaged rotors or calipers. Plus, it compromises your vehicle’s safety.
It’s Time to Shake It Off. Maintenance Tips: Keep an ear out for unusual sounds, have your brakes inspected regularly, and follow your vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for the best results.

Prioritizing brake maintenance isn’t just about saving money; it’s about safety. Make it a habit to check and ‘brake it off’ as needed to ensure you can keep cruisin’!

As fall is falling and taking temperatures with it, it’s not uncommon to see the tire pressure warning light illuminate on your vehicle’s dashboard. A warning light is always concerning, but this one is usually a straightforward issue tied to basic principles of physics, and the fact that the rubber meets the road.

Why It Happens

The main reason for this phenomenon lies in how air pressure behaves in response to temperature changes. Tires are filled with air, which expands when heated and contracts when cooled. When the temperature drops, the air inside your tires condenses, resulting in a decrease in tire pressure. This drop in pressure is detected by the vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which then triggers the warning light.

For every 10 degrees Fahrenheit drop in temperature, your tire pressure can drop by about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). This means a significant overnight temperature decrease can cause a noticeable dip in tire pressure, enough to trigger the dashboard alert.

What to Do About It

Check Tire Pressure Regularly: It’s crucial to monitor your tire pressure as seasons change. Use a reliable tire gauge to check the pressure against the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which can typically be found in the owner’s manual, on a sticker inside the driver’s side door, or by asking us.

Inflate Tires as Needed: If you notice that the tire pressure is below the recommended level, inflate the tires to the proper PSI.

Recheck After Driving: Sometimes the warning light may turn off after driving for a few minutes as the tires warm up and the air inside expands. However, don’t just rely on this; it’s still best to manually check and adjust tire pressure.

Maintain Overall Tire Health: Regular maintenance checks for tire wear and proper alignment can also helps you keep your tires in good condition, ensuring safer driving conditions year-round.

So don’t panic when you see the tire pressure warning light during colder weather. It’s usually not a cause for alarm. By understanding why this happens and knowing how to respond, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely through fall, winter, spring, and summer.

To learn about the warning lights on your dash, about tire care, or fall maintenance tips, we’re here to help. Read on our blog, or come in to Norris Automotive!

It’s one of those small maintenance tasks that you think you can put off – until there’s a downpour in the dark. Replacing worn windshield wipers is necessary to maintain good visibility on the road.

Where The Rubber Hits the Window. Wiper blades are made from rubber, which means they naturally wear down. Sunlight, dirt, and road grime can cause the rubber to crack, tear, or lose its flexibility. When this happens, the blades no longer make full contact with your windshield, leading to streaks, smudges, or areas that aren’t wiped clean. If you’ve ever had to squint through a windshield during a downpour, you know how dangerous poor visibility can be.

When to Wiper Out. As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six to twelve months, depending on the climate in which you live. If you’re in an area with heavy rainfall or frequent snow, you may find that your wipers wear out more quickly. In regions with harsh sunlight, the rubber can dry out faster, reducing the effectiveness of your wipers. Keeping an eye on the performance of your blades and replacing them when needed ensures that you’ll always have a clear view of the road ahead.

If your wipers leave streaks, make chattering or squeaking noises, or fail to clear the windshield completely, it’s time to install a new pair. Even if they seem to be working adequately, inspect them regularly for signs of wear like cracks or brittleness. Sometimes the blade frame can become bent or damaged as well, which affects how well the rubber blade contacts the windshield.

Wiper On! The good news is that you won’t need a lesson from Mr. Miyagi to know how to replace your wiper blades. It’s one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can perform on your vehicle. Most wiper blade systems are designed for simple installation and removal. Many automotive stores will even help you install them at no extra cost if you purchase your wipers there. Your vehicle’s manual will provide information on the correct size and type of wipers to buy, making the process even simpler. And as always, you can ask us at Norris! (We do a mean Mr. Miyagi impression.)

Don’t wait until the next downpour to realize that your wipers aren’t performing well. Drive safely by making sure you have a clear view of the road in any weather conditions. Keeping up with this small but essential task is a quick and easy way to maintain your vehicle and give yourself peace of mind when driving in bad weather.

Tires are one of the most crucial components of your vehicle, yet they often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. Taking the time to properly maintain your tires not only extends their lifespan but also enhances your driving safety and fuel efficiency.

Here are simple tips to help you get the most out of your tires and ensure they remain in great condition for as long as possible.

Inflation. (The Good Kind.) One of the fundamental aspects of tire care is keeping them properly inflated. Tire pressure plays a significant role in your vehicle’s handling and fuel economy, so it’s essential to check it regularly. Underinflated tires make your car’s engine work harder and burn more fuel. Overinflated tires can lead to reduced traction and a harsher ride.

Check your tire pressure monthly, or whenever there’s a significant change in temperature.

On the Rotation. Tires wear unevenly due to various factors, such as the vehicle’s weight distribution and driving habits. Front tires often wear faster than rear ones, especially on front-wheel-drive vehicles. Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps even out the wear and ensures that all four tires wear at a similar rate, prolonging their life. Your vehicle’s manual should provide specific recommendations for rotation patterns, as different vehicles may require different approaches.

Line Up! Tire alignment is another often overlooked factor in tire longevity. When your wheels are out of alignment, your tires can wear unevenly or more rapidly, and you may even notice your car pulling to one side. If you hit a pothole or notice uneven tire wear, it’s a good idea to have your alignment checked by a professional.

Time to Say Goodbye. While it’s tempting to hold onto tires for as long as possible, it’s essential to know when it’s time to say goodbye. A simple way to check the condition of your tires is to use the tread depth test. A general rule of thumb is that if the tread is less than 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires. Additionally, if you notice any visible damage such as cuts, cracks, or bulges, get a professional (like us!) to inspect them for safety. Tires also have a recommended maximum age, typically around six years, regardless of tread wear.

Heavy Metal. Avoid overloading your vehicle, as too much weight can lead to faster tire wear. Consult your vehicle’s manual for the maximum load capacity and be mindful of what you’re carrying, especially during long road trips. Balancing your load and distributing weight evenly can prevent strain on the tires, helping them last longer.

By following our handy guide to tire maintenance, you can maximize their lifespan, improve your vehicle’s performance, and stay safer on the road.

Regular checks, rotations, and alignment adjustments can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your tires in optimal condition. With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a smooth, efficient, and safe ride. And at Norris Automotive, that’s what we want!

Now that you’ve learned how important oil changes are, let’s get a bit more advanced. You may be surprised that changing your oil is an easy, do it yourself project that can help you learn your way around the things under your vehicle’s hood. There’s a little bit of cash outlay at the beginning, but lots of folks think it’s worth it in the long run. Here’s a quick guide:

Gather Your Supplies:

• Motor oil: Use the recommended type for your vehicle. Grab your owner’s manual. If we’ve done your oil changes in the past, there is a note on your windshield…
• Oil filter: Ensure it matches your vehicle’s specifications. This is also in your owner’s manual.
• Box-end wrench or socket for the drain plug. Ask at your nearest auto parts store for help.
• Funnel, disposable gloves, and safety glasses.
• Jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks for lifting the vehicle safely.

Prepare and Lift Your Vehicle:

• Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
• Jack up the vehicle. Important – never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack!
• Use jack stands and wheel chocks to secure the vehicle.
• Let the engine cool off if it has been running recently.
• Remove the engine-oil dipstick to aid drainage.

Locate the Oil Drain Plug:

• Slide under the vehicle with safety goggles and gloves.
• Find the long-bolt head at the bottom of the oil pan.
• Some vehicles have two drain plugs, so be aware.

Drain the Spent Motor Oil:

• Position a catch pan beneath the drain plug.
• Loosen the drain plug in a counterclockwise direction.
• Allow the oil to drain completely into the pan.
• Be cautious; the oil may still be hot.

Replace the Oil Filter:

• While the oil drains, locate the cylindrical oil filter.
• Loosen the old filter using an oil-filter wrench.
• Remove it and check if the gasket came off with the filter.
• Apply fresh oil to the new filter’s rubber gasket.
• Install the new filter and tighten it properly.

Make sure that you dispose of the old oil and filters responsibly. Take it to the landfill, or to most auto parts stores.

Changing the oil on your car isn’t hard, and some people prefer to do it on their own. Others would rather outsource it, and bring it to us! At Norris, we’re here for the little things – like oil changes – the big things – like transmission repair – and everything in between. As always, we’ll do whatever it takes to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

It’s back to school time. Even if you’ve already graduated, we need to remind you that learning is a lifelong event. And this month, we want you to learn about oil changes for your vehicle!

First up, why should you change your oil?

1. Running Smoothly. Imagine all the moving parts inside your car’s engine: pistons, valves, and other components working at high speeds. Regular oil changes ensure proper lubrication, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. Clean oil keeps these parts running smoothly and efficiently.
2. Running Cool. Moving parts without adequate lubrication generate friction, which leads to heat buildup. Fresh oil dissipates this heat, preventing overheating and potential damage. Proper cooling helps maintain optimal engine performance.
3. Running Cleanly. Oil changes remove engine wear particles and sludge. Dirt particles are detrimental to engines. Over time, oil accumulates debris and contaminants. Regular oil changes prevent these particles from causing premature wear, ensuring your engine stays clean and healthy1.
4. Running Efficiently. Dirty or low oil levels result in increased friction, reducing fuel efficiency. Regular oil changes help maintain optimal viscosity, allowing your engine to operate efficiently and achieve better gas mileage.
5. Running Longer. Neglecting oil changes can lead to costly consequences. Premature engine wear, decreased performance, and expensive repairs are all risks. Regular maintenance ensures your engine’s longevity and protects your investment.

Remember, following your manufacturer’s recommendations for oil type and change intervals is crucial. Whether you do it yourself or run it over to the Norris team, prioritize regular oil changes to keep your engine running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

An OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner is a small diagnostic tool that connects to your car’s onboard computer system, allowing you to read error codes and monitor various parameters to identify potential issues. Owning an OBD2 scanner can be incredibly advantageous for vehicle owners. Here’s what it does…

It Decodes That Random Light on the Dashboard. It’s hard to know what all those dashboard lights mean. When your car’s warning lights illuminate, an OBD2 scanner provides well-defined messages. It deciphers error codes related to malfunctioning sensors, underperforming components, or other issues. No more guessing—it’s like having a car whisperer in your pocket!

It Saves You Money. Instead of rushing to see us (although you are welcome!) every time the check engine light blinks, use your OBD2 scanner. It helps you identify minor issues (like a loose gas cap) that you can fix yourself. Saving money? That’s a green light!

It Gives You Peace of Mind. Whether you’re commuting daily or getting ready to go on a road trip, knowing your car’s health is reassuring. You can drive with confidence. It’s like having a knowledgeable Norris mechanic by your side!

An OBD2 scanner is your car’s secret decoder ring. And – yes – you can use it. Read our next blog post and find out how!

Understanding dashboard warning lights is crucial for every driver. But what does it mean when one of those nebulous symbols begins to glow? Is it a warning that maintenance is needed soon, or a warning that if you don’t stop right now your car’s engine is in mortal danger? How do you know?!

Here’s a basic guide.

Check the Color!
Red Warning Lights: These require immediate action. If you see any red lights, address the issue promptly. Examples include the engine oil warning light (indicating low oil pressure) and the check engine light (signaling various engine problems).

Orange/Amber Warning Lights: These are just advisory signals. They indicate situations or issues that need attention. For instance, the low tire pressure light (exclamation point inside a half-circle) means your tires need air. Find a safe spot to stop and inspect them.

Green or Blue Lights: These remind you that a feature or system is operating normally. No immediate action is needed.

Check the Manual, or…
For more specific information on what the lights mean, check your owner’s manual. You can also use a smartphone to do an image search.

Or you can call us. “My car has a yellow light with an exclamation point and a squiggly line under it” may not mean much to you, but we know it means that you need to check your tire pressure.

One HUGE word of warning. Remember, when your check engine light illuminates, don’t ignore it—get it checked out promptly! We’re warning you. That light on your dashboard needs immediate action. So give us a call!

Our primary business is fixing engines and changing oil, but for a long time, but we have a secondary passion – youth sports! For more years than we can count, we’ve been sponsoring local youth sports teams. At Norris, we love kids, and we love baseball and soccer and basketball! We love to cheer from the sidelines, and we’re grateful we can provide financial support, too.

Mike Norris, our owner, is a mechanic with a heart of gold. He once played Little League himself. He knows firsthand the camaraderie, discipline, and life lessons that youth sports imparts. He loves to keep that tradition alive.

We love to see the kids gain that sense of belonging and being on a team. We love the values that it instills.  The players proudly wear jerseys with the garage’s logo, and when they step onto the field or court, we like to think they play with a little extra determination, knowing that someone believes in them.

If you look real closely at the faces of the players, you may just see family resemblance to some of the Norris and Elite Motor Car employees. Listen to the parents yelling from the bleachers, you’ll probably recognize the voices!

So, next time you drive by Norris Automotive, remember that it’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about fixing hearts and building dreams. 

Here are a few of the teams we’ve sponsored through the years.