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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

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Winter is Coming and So Is Winter Travel… Tires Are Integral!

Good tread is important on Tires for winter because it helps to improve traction in slippery conditions. Snow and ice can make it difficult for your tires to grip the road, which can lead to loss of control. Winter Tires are designed with deeper tread depths and more aggressive tread patterns than all-season tires, which helps them to dig through snow and ice and maintain contact with the road. If you live in snowy climates Winter Tires are necessary, otherwise good quality All Season Tires are sufficient.

Here are some of the benefits of having good tread on your tires for winter:

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Improved traction: Good tread helps your tires to grip the road in slippery conditions, which can improve your acceleration, braking, and cornering performance.

Reduced risk of hydroplaning:  Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road and ride on a layer of water. Good tread helps to channel water away from your tires, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

Increased safety:  Good tread can help you to avoid accidents and injuries in winter driving conditions.

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How much tread is needed on Tires? Experts recommend that Tires have a tread depth of at least 6/32 of an inch. However, some tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch. It is important to check your tire tread depth regularly and replace your tires when they are worn down.  Any Tire Shop can check and measure your tires for you.

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How to check tire tread depth: There are a few different ways to check tire tread depth. One easy way is to use the penny test. Insert a penny upside down into one of the tread grooves. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, your tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch and your tires should be replaced.

Another more reliable way is to go to your trusted Auto Repair Shop and have your Mechanic inspect your tires. Because If you are unsure whether your tire tread depth is sufficient for winter driving, it is best to consult with a qualified tire professional.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

Used Auto Parts can go to a variety of destinations, depending on their condition and value.

Salvage yards are the most common destination for used auto parts. Salvage yards buy wrecked and totaled vehicles and dismantle them for parts. The parts are then sold to individual buyers, Mechanics, and Auto Parts Stores.

Auto Parts Stores also sell remanufactured Auto Parts. These parts are typically sourced from parts removed and sent back as a core (a used part for rebuild), but some stores also refurbish used parts themselves.

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Online Marketplaces such as eBay and Facebook Market Place are another popular source for used auto parts. But buyer beware!  It’s always best to let your Mechanic do your parts sourcing.

Recycling facilities process used auto parts that are not suitable for reuse. The metal parts are typically melted down and reused to make new products. Other parts, such as plastics and rubber, can be recycled as well.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of what happens to used Auto Parts at each destination:

SALVAGE YARDS: Disassembly: The first step is, a Mechanic disassembles the vehicle. This involves removing all the major components, such as the Engine, Transmission, and body parts.

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Inspection: The parts are then inspected for damage and wear. Any Parts that are not in good condition are discarded or recycled. Storage: The remaining parts are stored in a warehouse until they are sold. Sale: The Parts are sold to individual buyers, Mechanics, and auto parts stores.

INDEPENDENT AUTO PARTS STORES: Purchasing: Auto parts stores typically purchase remanufactured sourced from salvage. Inspection: The parts are inspected for damage and wear by the store’s Mechanics. Refurbishing: Some auto parts stores refurbish used parts before selling them. This may involve cleaning, repairing, or painting the parts. Sale: The parts are sold to customers who need to replace a damaged or worn part on their vehicle.

ONLINE MARKET PLACES: Listing: Sellers list their used Auto Parts on online marketplaces such as eBay and Facebook Market Place. Buying: Buyers search for used Auto Parts on these marketplaces and contact the sellers if they are interested in a particular part. Shipping: The sellers ship the parts to the buyers once they have paid for them.

RECYCLING FACILITIES: Sorting: The used Auto Parts are sorted by type of material. Crushing: The metal parts are crushed and melted down. Recycling: The metal is recycled to make new products.

Used Auto Parts can be a valuable resource for both consumers and the environment. By reusing used parts, consumers can save money and help to reduce waste.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

Why Should I Pay to Find Out What’s Wrong With My Car?

Diagnostic charges done at Auto Repair Shops are a common practice, but they can be confusing for consumers. Why do Mechanics charge for diagnosing a problem, even if the customer doesn’t end up getting the repair done?

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The simple answer is that diagnosing a car problem takes time and training. A qualified Mechanic will need to use a variety of tools and techniques to narrow down the possible causes of the problem. This may involve:

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• Inspecting the vehicle visually: This includes checking for any obvious signs of damage or wear and tear.
• Running Diagnostic Tests: This may involve using in-depth scan tools and software to read and interpret error codes.
• Testing individual components: This may involve removing and testing parts such as sensors, actuators, and Wiring Harnesses.

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The more complex the problem, the more time and effort it will take to diagnose the issue. And the more specialized the tools and training required, the higher the diagnostic fee will be.

Here are some specific examples of what you might be paying for when you incur a Diagnostic Charge:

• Labor: The Mechanic’s time spent diagnosing the problem, including inspecting the vehicle, running tests, and testing individual components.
• Tool usage: The cost of using specialized Diagnostic Tools and up to date software, such as scan tools and oscilloscopes.
• Knowledge and expertise: The Mechanic’s training and experience in diagnosing car problems.

It’s important to note that Diagnostic Charges are not always required. However, in most cases, it’s best to have the problem diagnosed first. This will help to ensure that the correct repair is made and that you don’t end up wasting money on unnecessary parts or labor.

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If you’re concerned about the diagnostic charge, be sure to ask your Mechanic about the specific services that will be performed.  You should also get a written estimate before any work begins.

Here are some tips for understanding and managing diagnostic charges:

• Shop around: Compare Diagnostic Fees from different Mechanics, check reviews, and ask friends before choosing one.
• Ask about the process: Ask your Mechanic what steps they will take to diagnose the problem.
• Get a written estimate: Before any work begins, get a written estimate from your Mechanic that includes the diagnostic fee.

By understanding what diagnostic charges are for and how they are determined, you can make informed decisions about your auto repairs.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC.

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake??

There are a few reasons why your Car might Shake When You Brake. The most common cause is warped or imbalanced brake rotors. Rotors are the disc plates that spin with your wheels, and the brake pads clamp down on them to slow down the car. If the Brake Rotors are warped or imbalanced, they will cause the car to vibrate when the brakes are applied.

Other possible causes of car shaking when braking include:

• Worn or unbalanced Tires. If your tires are not properly balanced, they can cause the car to vibrate at high speeds and when braking.
• Sticking Brake Calipers. The Brake Calipers are the components that squeeze the Brake Pads against the Brake Rotors. If a Caliper sticks, it can cause the brake pad to stay in contact with the Brake Rotor even after you release the Brake Pedal. This can cause the car to vibrate and make it difficult to steer.
• Problems with the suspension. If there is something wrong with your car’s suspension, such as a worn ball joints or tie rods, it can cause the car to Shake When Braking.

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Here are some tips to help prevent your car from Shaking when You Brake:

If your car is shaking when you brake, it is important to have it diagnosed by a Qualified Mechanic as soon as possible. Driving a car that shakes when braking can be dangerous, as it can make it difficult to control the car and stop safely.

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• Get your Tires rotated and balanced regularly.
• Have your Brakes inspected and serviced regularly, especially if you drive in heavy traffic or stop-and-go conditions.
• Replace your Brake Rotors and Brake Pads when they are worn.
• Have your car’s suspension inspected regularly.

If you notice that your car is shaking when you brake, don’t delay in having it checked out by a Mechanic at an Auto Repair Shop.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair.

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Why does My Car Shake When I Brake? There is ways to Maintain Your Tires and Brakes.  How do you know if there is a Problem.

Shaking or vibration when braking can be caused by several factors, including:

• Unbalanced tires: Uneven tire wear or damage can cause the tires to vibrate, which can be felt in the steering wheel or brake pedal.
• Warped brake rotors: This is a common cause of shaking, especially when braking at high speeds. Warped rotors can be caused by overheating, excessive wear, or improper installation.
• Loose or worn suspension components: Worn or loose suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rods, or bushings, can cause vibration and shaking, especially when braking.

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Here are some ways to maintain your tires and prevent problems:

• Check tire pressure regularly: Tire pressure should be checked at least once a month, and more often if you drive frequently. Properly inflated tires will improve handling, fuel economy, and tire life.
• Inspect tires for wear and damage: Look for uneven wear, bulges, or cracks in the tire tread. If you see any damage, have the tire inspected by a trusted Mechanic.
• Rotate Tires regularly: Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.  Have your Mechanic schedule a Tire Rotation every time your oil is changed, and you will keep your tires wearing evenly.
• Replace tires when worn down: Tires should be replaced when the tread depth is less than 4/32 of an inch.

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Here are some signs that there may be a problem with your tires:

• Shaking or vibration: This can be a sign of warped brake rotors, unbalanced tires, or worn suspension components.
• Uneven tire wear: This can be a sign of alignment problems, suspension problems, or improper tire inflation.
• Bulges or cracks in the tire tread: These are signs of serious damage, and the tire should be replaced immediately.

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Alignment Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor at Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

WHY DO NEW TIRES GO ON THE BACK AND NOT THE FRONT??

There are two main reasons why new tires should be installed on the rear axle, if you are only replacing two tires:

Safety: On Rear-Wheel-Drive vehicles, the rear tires are responsible for propelling it forward, and they also play an important role in braking and cornering. Having new tires on the rear axle helps to ensure that the vehicle has the best possible traction and control in all driving conditions.

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Handling:  New tires have deeper tread and better grip than worn tires. If you have new tires on the front axle and worn tires on the rear axle, the vehicle is more likely to oversteer (fishtail) in emergency situations. This can be difficult to control, especially for inexperienced drivers.

Here is a more detailed explanation of each reason:

Safety: On Rear-Wheel-Drive Vehicles, the rear tires are responsible for propelling the vehicle forward, so they need to have good traction. When you accelerate, the weight of the vehicle shifts to the rear axle, which puts more pressure on the Rear Tires. If the Rear Tires have worn tread, they are more likely to slip and lose traction. This can lead to a loss of control, especially in wet or icy conditions.

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The Rear Tires also play an important role in braking. When you Brake, the weight of the vehicle shifts to the front Axle, but the Rear Tires still need to provide traction to help slow the vehicle down. If the Rear Tires have worn tread, they are more likely to lock up and skid when braking. This can also lead to a loss of control.

Finally, the Rear Tires play an important role in cornering. When you corner, the weight of the vehicle shifts to the outside tires. If the Rear Tires have worn tread, they are more likely to lose traction and cause the vehicle to understeer (plow straight ahead) or oversteer (fishtail).

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Handling: New Tires have deeper tread and better grip than Worn Tires. This means that they can provide more traction and control in all driving conditions. If you have new Tires on the Front Axle and worn tires on the Rear Axle, the vehicle is more likely to oversteer (fishtail) in emergency situations. This is because the New Tires on the Front Axle will grip the road better than the Worn Tires on the Rear Axle. When you turn the wheel, the Front Tires will try to follow the direction you are turning, but the Rear Tires will tend to slide straight ahead. This can cause the rear of the vehicle to swing out, which is known as oversteer.

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Oversteer can be difficult to control, especially for inexperienced drivers. If you oversteer, you should take your foot off the gas pedal and turn the wheel in the opposite direction of the skid.

It is important to note that it is always best to replace All Four Tires at the same time. However, if you can only afford to replace two tires, it is always best to put the New Tires on the Rear Axle. This will help to improve safety and handling.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair

We’ve all been there, driving down the road and your Check Engine Light comes on and you think, “Oh no! I’m in trouble”.  Well, I can beat that.  I was driving down the road and my Check Engine light came on, then it started flashing AND shaking AND wouldn’t accelerate!  Now, obviously I work at an Auto Repair Shop, however… I still freaked out inside. Even knowing what I know as an Auto Repair Service Advisor, it’s still an upsetting proposition.  The outcome, which I knew, was that my car was Misfiring.  The remedy for me; New Spark Plugs, Direct Ignition Coil, and a Fuel Injection Service.  Not a traumatic event.  The moral of this story is, even a Flashing Check Engine Light is not a reason to fear.  Cars have many components, if you have a trusted Mechanic, they will sort it out for you. Most importantly, it’s not always a HUGE deal even when it feels that way!

Recently, I was driving to work and received a frantic call from one of my best friends.  She says, “Oh my God, my little orange horseshoe light is flashing!!”  “What do I do?!!”

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“Firstly”, I say, “Take a deep breath.  That is your Tire Pressure Sensor Light.  All that means is that one of your Tire Sensor Batteries is dead. ” Is that bad?!” she queried. “Only for that poor tire sensor, may it rest in peace. You will now have to put it to rest and have a new sensor installed. But, if you check your tire pressure regularly you have no worries until you can.”, I replied.  “I’m so glad you’re my friend!  Thank you, I feel so much better!!” So, take note, if your little orange horseshoe starts blinking… one or more of your Tire Pressure Sensor Batteries has failed.

About a month ago, one of my wonderful customers came into our Repair Shop breathless. I enquired as to whatever was the matter. He said that he was coming to a stoplight and his car started “hiccupping” and felt like it was going to stall but it didn’t. He then told me shortly after that his Check Engine Light came on.  So, I asked him, “Does it happen only when you are driving, or at all times?” “At all times”, he said.  “Is it bad, should I have it Towed in?  “No, it sounds like something to do with your car’s Fuel Evaporation System.  It will be fine until your appointment. That being said, if anything changes or if your Check Engine light starts flashing, bring it inimmediately.”  It ended up being a problem with its Fuel Evaporation Leak Down System.  A faulty Purge Valve and nothing more.

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We all have stories, and I hope that these will ease your mind and let you know that not all your vehicle lights are Code Blue, mostly just a Caution!

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Happy Thanksgiving.

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

Happy Thanksgiving Cobb Tire and Auto Repair Greenville SC 29615

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS…

The Holiday Season brings family and friends together in joyous celebration, reminiscing about holidays past, being in the present, and what the future holds.

Gratitude is the centerpiece.

So, in the spirit of holiday travels and not travails… make sure you pre-book an appointment with your trusted Auto Repair Shop!  The holidays are busy for EVERYONE and the likelihood of getting an Oil Change the day before driving to Cleveland is slim and none.  So, make sure attention is paid to your sleigh.  Book an appointment ahead of your travels to make sure your Tires are in optimal condition.  Have your Mechanic give your car a Travel Inspection even if you aren’t due for an Oil Change yet.

The Grinch can steal your Christmas with a worn Tire blow out on the way to gramma’s house. And, trust me, there is nothing worse than a dead Battery in the dead of winter in a rest stop in Northern Kentucky!

So, swing into your holidays safely with a Pre-Trip Inspection from your trusted Mechanic and make sure that you’re safe and not Scrooged, on the side of the road!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor at Cobb Tire and Auto Repair

Wow…Things are Really Different Today!

In today’s fast paced world, we’ve gotten used to much of our lives moving at breakneck speed. Pre-order groceries for curbside pickup, 3-minute Uber arrival, Amazon and more.  It’s easy to think everything moves that fast.  However, it doesn’t.

Auto Parts are increasingly difficult to source and obtain.  With a historical manufacturing strike, COVID, and International “issues”, supplies are more sparse than ever before.

I’ve seen an increasing amount of tension in the Auto Repair industry. Not only is there a lack of free-flowing part access, but the scarcity of trained and certified Mechanics is also a reality.  The Customer Car Count is higher by the day, as more people are repairing their vehicles. due to the lack of vehicle stock and cost.  With help and supplies dwindling, most Shops are noticing fuller parking lots and a decline in same day service.

When you bring your car into your trusted Auto Repair Shop, keep in mind these facts.  Schedule when you have availability.  An appointment is a place keeper not a promise.  More than likely there are several cars ahead of you, and a Mechanic working at the mercy of parts having to be located and delivered.  Also, try and keep in mind that unlike Google your Auto Mechanic doesn’t come with editing software.  It takes time for him to physically diagnose and repair your vehicle.

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So, keep it in mind and be kind to your Auto Repair Shop, Service Advisors, and Mechanics.

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Cobb Tire and Auto Repair in Greenville SC 29615

By Alicia Lewis. Service Advisor for Cobb Tire and Auto Repair
Why is My Car Vibrating at Higher Speeds?

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When driving down the freeway, do you notice shaking in your vehicle?  A shimmy?  A sort of wobble?  Yes?  You may have a tire problem, or you may have a balance issue. Uneven Tire Wear, unbalanced Tires, and Alignment issues can cause ride vibration and give you a shaky ride.  If you are experiencing a bumpy ride, make an appointment with your trusted Mechanic and have a Tire Inspection done.

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Signs of Tire Problems:

• Visible uneven wear on the tire tread
• Shaking or wobbling at the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard
• Cupping (scalloped wear) on the tire tread
• Pulling to one side while driving
• Reduced fuel economy

What to do if you experience Ride Vibration:

• Get your tires inspected by a qualified Mechanic at a Tire Repair Shop. They can check for uneven Tire wear, improper balance, and misalignment.
• Have your tires balanced and aligned if necessary.  This will help to smooth out your ride and extend the life of your tires.
• Rotate your tires regularly. This will help to ensure that your Tires wear evenly.

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Why it’s important to address tire problems:

• Safety:  Vibrations can make it difficult to control your car, especially at high speeds.
• Comfort:  A smooth ride is more enjoyable for everyone in the car.
• Tire life:  Unbalanced and misaligned tires wear out faster.
• Fuel economy:  Properly maintained tires can help you save money on gas.

Tips for choosing a reputable Tire Shop:

• Ask for recommendations from friends or family.
• Google “Tire Shops”, and “Tire Shops Near Me”. Read the online reviews. A fair and honest
  Tire Shop will have a strong Google Rating. Also look to see if the Tire Shop is answering their reviews in a timely manor.

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Balanced and Aligned wheels and tires extend the life of your tires and increase performance and gas mileage.  Also, with Holiday travel, safety is a concern.  Have your Tires checked at your local repair shop for uneven Tire Wear, Balance, and Alignment.  Extend the life of your Tires and drive comfortably knowing your vehicle is performing correctly!

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