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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...

Your tires play a crucial role in the safety and functionality of your vehicle. Proper tire maintenance is vital in preventing flats, enhancing road safety and improving gas mileage. During the colder months, tires will need routine inspection and care. Colder temperatures will cause tire pressure to drop about one PSI (pounds per square inch) for every 18°F drop in air temperature. Check your tire pressure regularly by monitoring the TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system). When the TPMS light ...

The new year is an excellent time for a fresh start. Let's not only think about our personal goals, such as hitting the gym or traveling. Make a resolution to take care of an important purchase that can be taken for granted - your car!    Your vehicle is a valuable and essential part of your day-to-day life. It keeps you going and allows you to get to work, school, home, and any of your leisure pursuits. Show your car, truck, or SUV the attention it deserves with a little extra love and care to...

With so many fuel options available at gas stations, how do you know which one to choose? Your vehicle needs fuel that is injected into the engine's cylinders to propel your vehicle. The combustion engine relies on air, fuel, and ignition to operate. If one of these elements is missing, your engine will likely not run at all. Every car must use proper fuel that is suitable with its engine specification. If the fuel you put in your vehicle is incorrect, it may not run, and if you have a gasoline...

The holidays are one of the best times of the year. It usually means celebrating with family, getting together with friends, or even traveling long distances. With all the excitement going on, it’s essential to keep safety at the forefront. Driving during the holiday season can always be hectic as the number of drivers on the road increases each year. To stay safe while driving, you will need to watch out for several hazards, including inclement weather and negligent drivers. Increased traffic...

One of the most important components of your car is its braking system. It's imperative that you regularly check how well your brakes are performing. Braking system components include brake pads, rotors, calipers, and lines. Brake pads are among the most vital elements of the braking system and are considered normal wear items since they create friction that helps stop your car. As a rule of thumb, brake pads should be replaced about every 50,000 miles.    Brakes are a crucial safety feature th...

With the transition to the winter season, we start to make changes to our wardrobe to keep warm and comfortable. Your car might will need a winter makeover as well to be in optimal working order. Maintenance and auto repairs need to be performed throughout the year, but your vehicle needs a bit more thought in winter. Road conditions can become very hazardous during winter weather, which can make driving dangerous. It's essential to plan ahead for the conditions and situations that can arise as...