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Gas prices around the world are at an all-time high, and drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump. What can we do to conserve fuel and save some money? Drive less, ride a bike, take public transportation? Short of buying an electric vehicle, there are habits you can implement that can reduce your fuel consumption with noticeable results.    The constant need to fill your tanks is one of the most expensive parts of maintaining your vehicle. Research has shown that your vehicle can preserve up t...

When your car battery dies, a jump-start might be the solution to get you back on the road again. Don't wait until you are in a position where your car won't start to figure out what you need to do. It is essential for all drivers to know how to jump-start a car. If the proper steps are not taken, you may do more harm than good to the vehicle.    Car batteries are rechargeable and can last up to three to four years. When your battery is dead and recharging is possible, you need another car to j...

When you've got a bunch of stuff to pack into a car, it can be a real challenge. Here are some tips to make it a little easier!

When you become a vehicle owner, one of the most essential parts of this journey to ensure road safety is maintaining your vehicle. By owning a car, you take on a lot of responsibilities, starting with always remembering to give it timely maintenance and servicing. Ignoring car maintenance will increase the risk of mechanical failure and costly repairs.    For routine car maintenance services, seek assistance from a certified and licensed auto repair shop. Keeping up with vehicle maintenance se...

The air conditioning and heating system can be one of the most used and often overlooked systems in a vehicle. When the auto A/C isn't functioning properly, driving in the midst of summer or winter weather can be particularly uncomfortable. Air conditioning remains one of the most popular accessories in modern cars, so keeping it well maintained and adequately repaired will keep you and your passengers riding in comfort in any season.    Problems with the air conditioning unit often develop ove...

Before hitting the open road, you should consider getting your car ready for the trip ahead. Unfortunate breakdowns and mishaps can happen at any time, and it is best to be prepared. Your vehicle must be in optimal working condition, and you should have some necessary routine maintenance performed before you and any companions head out on an adventure.    If you want to enjoy your trip, make sure that your vehicle is as prepared as your soul. You don’t want your car to leave you stranded miles...

A car battery's primary purpose is to change chemical energy into electrical energy when starting the car’s ignition. The battery also plays a part in powering car accessories such as radio, clock, and alarm systems. When the car is not being driven, the battery doesn't have a chance to recharge, leading to a dead battery. This simple fact is why regular driving is so essential.    Leaving the battery in your car when it is parked for an extended period will allow the car battery to go from fu...

Muffler repair is about much more than just not having a noisy car!

Wheel alignment can be a bit of a confusing concept. Unlike other, more obvious automotive problems, a car with bad suspension alignment won't light a warning on your dash and you can't see it by looking closely at your car. Not only is improper alignment hard to detect, but it can also produce symptoms that could very well be something else, like tire wear, underinflated tires, overinflated tires or brake issues. The professionals at Don Owen Tire we are dedicated to helping you understand you...

At Don Owen Tire in Bloomington, IL, we do a lot of oil changes…and we mean, a LOT of oil changes.  Sometimes we see customers who are about to head out on a long road trip of several thousand miles, and they wonder if it’s best to have an oil change performed before or after the trip. The answer to that is…that there’s no firm answer. It depends on a few different factors: Factors To Determine When To Get an Oil Change • How many miles does the current motor oil have on it? How does it lo...