BEAR AUTO REPAIR

As we talked about in last week's blog post, a lot of people are getting back on the road this summer. Life is starting to return back to normal with people taking road trips or just returning to their offices. You may not have not driven much in the past year, but that also means you may not have done much maintenance to your vehicle(s). Automotive Maintenance: Mileage vs. Time Some people think of routine maintenance as only a mileage-based task. You get your oil changed and tires rotated every 5,000-6,000 miles. You didn't put as many miles on your car, so there hasn't been a need for maintenance. Unfortunately, time can also take its toll on certain vehicle parts. If your car has just been sitting around and gathering dust the past 14 months, it will likely require some maintenance. Fluids can ... read more

There are few things more annoying than having to buy new tires for your car, especially when it happens sooner than you expected. The dealership rates their tires as having a 60,000-mile lifespan. Yet, by the time you reach 40,000, they are already telling you it's time for new ones!  We've all been here. The truth is those original tire mileage ratings are only somewhat accurate if you take perfect care of your wheels, tires, brakes, suspension, transmission and every other system that affects your tire treads. This is easier said than done for most drivers, who really don't think about their tires until they become a problem.  The good news is there are a few simple steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your tires. Here are 6 tips from Fox Run Auto: 1. Get Your Tires Rotated No matter what kind of ... read more

As you may or may not already know, your vehicle's "check engine" light is essentially a catch-all warning light. It can be tripped by a number of different sensors and systems within your car. Today's modern vehicles with more advanced computer systems may be able to give you a more specific notification along with the check engine light coming on, but older vehicles will not be quite as helpful. Here are 9 of the most common causes for the check engine light being illuminated in your car: 1. Loose Fuel Cap This one is actually very common. Sometimes you don't quite screw the gas cap on all the way (listen for that click) or maybe you forgot to replace it altogether. Either way, it's an easy problem to look for and fix. 2. Oxygen Sensor Your emissions system will have oxygen sensors that are there to detect exhaust issues. If there is an emissio ... read more

Though it's not required nearly as often as an oil change or tire rotation, a fuel system cleaning service can be very beneficial for your car. Over time, sediments can build up in the gas tank, fuel lines, fuel pump and fuel injection system. The fuel filter can become clogged or worn out to a point where it is ineffective. These factors will hinder the engine's performance and eventually start to cause significant problems. Most automotive experts recommend a fuel system service every 30,000 miles or so to help keep your fuel system and engine healthy. It will entail a full flush and chemical cleaning of your fuel system, as well as replacement of your fuel filter. The fuel pump and fuel injectors will be inspected and cleaned—or replaced if needed. Here are 3 benefits of a getting your fuel system cleaned and serviced, according to ... read more

Turning the calendar page to March officially marks the beginning of the spring season, even if the weather is still a little cold outside here in Northern Delaware. Before long, the grass will be greener, the birds will be singing and the roads will definitely be busier. Time for Auto Maintenance and Repairs A change in seasons is always a good reminder to take care of your car and schedule any maintenance services or automotive repairs that you may have been putting off this winter. Are you overdue for an oil change, tire rotation or brake service? When is the last time you had your wheel alignment checked? Did you put a special winter blend of coolant/water ratio in your radiator to get through the cold months that you need to replace for the spring and summer?  Full Vehicle Inspection These are all good questions to ask, and if your vehicle is due for any maintenance services ... read more