https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/6-7-CUT.jpg599766Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-06-12 12:29:482020-06-12 13:06:46Fathers Day Giveaway
Make a qualifying NAPA Brake parts purchase of $250 or more and claim a $75 prepaid Visa Card!
If you car doesn’t have the stopping power it used to, stop by Advanced Auto Clinic, your local NAPA AutoCare Center in Delavan, for our NAPA Brake Special! Score BIG savings with NAPA Brakes, the trusted and most dependable brakes available. Now through June 30th, receive a $75 prepaid Visa card with a qualifying NAPA Brakes purchase of $250 or more. Avoid surprises and stop in Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan to have your brakes inspected by the professionals.
Great Brakes. Great Price.
Stop into Advanced Auto Clinic today for details. Offer valid May 1 – June 30, 2020
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/featred-529.jpg245557Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-05-29 11:21:222020-05-29 11:30:09Avoid Surprises & Brake Into Savings! Get $75 Back on our NAPA Brake Special
When it is safe to travel, AAA expects vacationers will explore America’s backyard
Pump prices continue to increase across the country with nearly every state’s average pushing more expensive on the week, on average by four cents. At the start of the Memorial Day work week, the national gas price average is $1.87.
The last time the national gas price average leading into the holiday was under $2/gallon was 17 years ago in 2003. That year motorists paid, on average, $1.50 to fill-up. Gas prices this year won’t be as cheap as 2003, but today’s national average is a dollar cheaper than one year ago.
“Gas prices around Memorial Day have not been this cheap in nearly 20 years. However, as the country continues to practice social distancing, this year’s unofficial kick-off to summer is not going to drive the typical millions of Americans to travel,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Despite inexpensive gas prices, AAA anticipates this year’s holiday will likely set a record low for travel volume.”
For the first time in 20 years, AAA will not issue a Memorial Day travel forecast due to COVID-19 impacts on the underlying economic data used to create the forecast.
Americans can expect gas prices to continue to push more expensive, possibly hitting $2/gallon in the next few weeks. This is mostly due to demand increasing as states re-open. This week will also bring the Environmental Protection Agency’s waiver on the sale of winter-blend gasoline to an end. Stations will switch over to summer-blend gasoline, which has a lower Reid Vapor Pressure to prevent excessive evaporation when outside temperatures rise. Reducing the volatility of summer gas decreases emissions that contribute to unhealthy ozone and smog levels. Typically, the switchover to summer-blend can cause gas prices to spike during the summer driving season, but that will likely not be the case this year due to the impact of COVID-19 on demand and crude oil prices.
Quick Stats
The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Idaho (+17 cents), Pennsylvania (+8 cents), Wisconsin (+7 cents), Iowa (+7 cents), Colorado (+7 cents), Kansas (+7 cents), Maryland (+6 cents), Utah (+6 cents), Nebraska (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Mississippi ($1.51), Arkansas ($1.52), Oklahoma ($1.52), Missouri ($1.54), Texas ($1.56), Alabama ($1.57), Kansas ($1.57), South Carolina ($1.60), Louisiana ($1.60) and Tennessee ($1.62).
Great Lakes and Central States
The nation’s largest weekly gas price increases can be found for a second week in the Great Lakes and Central States region. Five states from the region land on the top 10 list for largest jumps, though this week’s increases are less than a dime: Wisconsin (+7 cents), Iowa (+7 cents), Kansas (+7 cents), Nebraska (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents).
With increases over the last two weeks, Illinois ($2.13) is the only state in the region whose average has jumped back over $2/gallon. At $1.86, Indiana carries the second most expensive average in the region, while Missouri ($1.54) touts the cheapest.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that regional gasoline stocks have decreased for six straight weeks, bringing total stock levels down to the lowest measurement of the year at 54 million bbl. However, stocks remain above the year-ago level of 49.5 million bbl and the five-year average of 52.6 million bbl.
South and Southeast
Gas prices continue to push more expensive for the majority of South and Southeast states as most of the region pushes towards re-opening. With an increase of six cents, Arkansas ($1.52) and Tennessee ($1.62) saw the largest jumps on the week. South and Southeast state pump price averages remain below $2/gallon by 25 – 50 cents. Florida ($1.77) carries the most expensive average while Arkansas ($1.52) touts the cheapest.
Motorists continue to enjoy vastly cheaper prices – 90 cents to more than a dollar cheaper – compared to last year. Even with prices expected to push more expensive this month, filling up will continue to be a cost savings compared to May 2019.
Regional gasoline stocks continue to measure at very healthy levels despite a 1.2 million draw in the EIA’s latest report. Total stocks now measure at 88.3 million bbl. That is 17 million bbl more than the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions’ stock level, which is the region with the second highest stock level in the country. While gas prices are likely to increase alongside demand, the healthy stock level should contribute to smaller jumps at the pump.
Mid-Atlantic and Northeast
On the week, Pennsylvania (+8 cents) saw the largest increase among Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states and saw the second biggest jump of all states in the country. Otherwise states in the region saw mostly increases of a few pennies, but no more than a nickel. State averages range between $2.17 in Washington, D.C. to $1.71 in North Carolina. In addition to Washington, D.C., New York ($2.15) and Pennsylvania ($2.14) carry the most expensive averages in the region and land among the top 10 highest in the country.
While gasoline stocks saw a slight increase, to push total stocks to nearly 71 million bbl, regional refinery rates dropped just below 50%. As more states in the region move towards opening, which is likely to increase gasoline demand, motorists can expect gas prices to increase, but still remain cheap compared to typical May pump prices.
Rockies
Motorists in the Rockies are seeing significant savings – more than a $1/gallon – at the pump year-over-year. Idaho (-$1.22), Utah (-$1.17) and Montana (-$1.12) all land on the top 10 list for largest yearly difference in the country. Wyoming has a difference of 97 cents less year-over-year.
The past week brought fluctuation through the region with Idaho (+17 cents), Colorado (+7 cents) and Utah (+6 cents) seeing increases as the pump. Wyoming ($1.82) and Montana ($1.74) mostly held steady. With the jump, Utah’s average increased to $2.02, the only state in the Rockies region with an average more than $1.99/gallon.
Regional gasoline stocks have consistently decreased for six weeks according to EIA data. The latest draw of 400,000 bbl puts total stocks right at 8 million bbl as refinery rates bump up to 70%. Even with gas prices poised to see further fluctuation in the week ahead, motorists in the region are still saving when they fill-up.
West Coast
Pump prices in the West Coast region are among the most expensive in the country, with more increases expected as states in the region ease restrictions this week. When compared to a week ago, California (+4 cents) and Nevada (+4 cents) saw the largest increases in the region. Arizona (-1 cent) saw the only decline. Hawaii ($3.17) and California ($2.80) remain the most expensive markets in the country. Washington ($2.45), Oregon ($2.38), Nevada ($2.35), Arizona ($2.07) and Alaska ($2.05) follow.
According to EIA’s latest weekly report, total gas stocks in the region decreased from 31.2 million bbl to 30.8 million bbl last week. As more motorists take to the roads in the region this week, gas demand is expected to continue to grow. Higher gas demand, amid falling gas stocks, will likely lead pump prices to increase this week.
Oil Market Dynamics
At the end of Friday’s formal trading session, WTI increased by $1.87 cents to settle at $29.43 per barrel. Crude prices increased last week amid growing market optimism that crude demand continues to rebound as more states re-open and demand for gasoline has grown in recent weeks. For this week, crude prices may continue to rise if the market believes that the 9.7 million b/d production reduction agreement for May and June 2020 between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and other major crude exporters, including Russia, is helping to rebalance the global oil market as demand remains low due to COVID-19.
Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/1589831784_AAA-Newsroom-Motorists-to-see-Cheapest-Memorial-Day-Pump-Prices.jpg6771280Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-05-18 11:12:062020-05-18 11:12:06AAA Newsroom: Motorists to see Cheapest Memorial Day Pump Prices in Nearly Two Decades
If it’s time for an engine oil change, you’ll need a few different tools and supplies. Gather new engine oil and a new oil filter, plus a wrench or socket for the oil drain plug, a drain pan and some rags for cleanup as well as safety gloves and glasses, too.
One other tool you’ll definitely need is an oil filter wrench, which comes in handy when a used oil filter doesn’t want to come off easily. Learn how to use an oil filter wrench so you can get the job done quickly and efficiently.
How to Use an Oil Filter Wrench
All oil filters and caps use right-hand threads — clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. Some tools only grip counterclockwise for loosening. Several oil filter wrench types are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
End Cap: End cap filter wrenches fit a single filter size. You fit the cap to the filter and use a ratchet or wrench to loosen it.
Claw: Universal claw-type wrenches have two or three claws that grip the oil filter. The more you turn the ratchet or wrench to loosen the filter, the tighter the claws grip. Spring-loaded claw wrenches tend to stay attached to the filter, freeing up your hands in tight spaces.
Band: A band wrench is simple to use and fits a range of filter sizes. It works in one direction, with a swivel handle to fit tight spaces; others are used with a ratchet or wrench. Try flipping it over if it doesn’t grip.
Strap: Strap wrenches use a flexible strap to grip the filter. Some have a handle, while others need a ratchet or wrench. Some strap wrenches grip in either direction. To use, clean the strap and filter to prevent slipping. Once the filter is loose, remove the strap before fully loosening the filter and removing it by hand. This prevents oil from soaking into the strap.
Pliers: Oil filter pliers spread the force over three or four points to improve grip and limit slip but need more clearance to use. Be sure to get a firm grip with your pliers before attempting to loosen the filter.
Chain: Chain wrenches wrap around the oil filter with extreme grip and are very effective. Some chain wrenches work in either direction.
Wrench or Ratchet: Some spin-on oil filters and canister filters have a hex or square lug or a hole. Use a wrench, ratchet or socket to loosen the filter for these.
Here’s How NOT to Use an Oil Filter Wrench
For the most part, don’t use an oil filter wrench to install an oil filter, which needs very little torque. Spin-on oil filters are tightened one-half to three-quarters of a turn after gasket contact. For canister filters, use the tool only to tighten until it contacts the base, then apply the correct torque with a torque wrench. Canister filters are sealed by an O-ring and overtightening could break them. Oil filter torque is light, usually 10 to 20 foot-pounds.
Always check your maintenance or repair manual for vehicle specifics before changing your oil. After the oil change, clean up and recycle the used oil. Auto parts stores and many repair shops accept used oil for recycling.
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/1588881657_NAPA-Know-How-How-to-Use-an-Oil-Filter-Wrench.jpg6281200Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-05-07 13:31:342020-05-07 15:00:58NAPA Know How: How to Use an Oil Filter Wrench For An Easier Oil Change
According to the annual CarMD® Vehicle Health Index™ one of the most common check engine light repairs is replacing the oxygen sensor. This relatively minor repair can be costly if neglected, leading to as much as 40 percent lower fuel efficiency, causing further damage to your vehicle’s exhaust system and adversely impacting the environment.
“Vehicles with faulty oxygen sensors typically seem to drive and handle well, but the malfunction can dramatically decrease fuel efficiency and lead to costlier repairs if ignored,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “A faulty oxygen sensor means your vehicle is emitting more pollutants and if the check engine light is illuminated, it may not pass vehicle emissions testing in those states requiring it for vehicle registration.”
A vehicle’s oxygen sensors are mounted in the exhaust system; they monitor the catalytic convertor’s operation and the level of oxygen in exhaust gases to maintain efficient engine operation. The best way to prevent an oxygen sensor failure is to follow a regular service schedule, including routine oil changes.
Unlike the past nine years of the annual CarMD report, costly catalytic converter replacement edged out O2 sensor replacement as the most common check engine light repair. Catalytic converters do not typically fail unless maintenance and other repairs are ignored or the vehicle is older. Average vehicle age has increased from 10.6 years to 11.7 years over the past decade, contributing to this outcome.
“It is important that car owners check the reason for an illuminated check engine light without delay and make necessary maintenance to avoid more costly repairs, like catalytic converter replacement, down the road,” said White. “If you find your vehicle needs service, call your trusted local repair shop as automotive repair is considered an essential service.”
The Car Care Council’s popular Car Care Guide features helpful information about the check engine light. Available in English and Spanish, a free printed copy of the 80-page Car Care Guide can be ordered by visiting www.carcare.org/car-care-guide.
The non-profit Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For the latest car care news, visit the council’s online media room at http://media.carcare.org. To order a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit the council’s consumer education website at www.carcare.org.
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Carcare.org-Blog-Check-Engine-Light-On-Could-Be-A-Faulty.png251300Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-05-05 12:33:072020-05-05 12:33:07Carcare.org Blog: Check Engine Light On? Could Be A Faulty O2 Sensor
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/image-slider-toolbox-2.jpg300740Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-04-17 13:21:562020-05-13 08:58:29NOW OFFERING OZONE TREATMENT SERVICE FREE OF CHARGE TO OUR CUSTOMERS!
No Immediate Impact to Pump Prices Expected with OPEC+ Historic Global Reduction Announcement
The national gas price average has steadily declined for seven weeks, pushing the average cheaper by 61-cents to $1.86 today. During this timeframe (since late February), U.S. demand for gasoline has decreased 44% to 5 million b/d as gasoline inventories build across the country.
“We are seeing fast and furious gasoline demand destruction. The latest data reveals demand levels not seen since spring of 1968,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Every U.S. region is seeing builds in gasoline inventories and crude storage, which is just driving pump prices even cheaper.”
On Sunday, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus (OPEC+), led by Saudi Arabia, announced historic global crude productions cuts – nearly 10 million b/d in May and June.
“While the production cut is historic, it’s likely to not have an immediate impact on pump prices given the ongoing impact the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have on crude oil prices and gasoline demand,” added Casselano.
At $1.86, today’s national average is 6-cents less than last week, 44-cents cheaper than a month ago and nearly $1 less than a year ago.
Quick Stats
The nation’s top 10 largest weekly decreases are: Alaska (-19 cents), Idaho (-17 cents), Wisconsin (-13 cents), Iowa (-11 cents), South Dakota (-11 cents), Arkansas (-11 cents), Wyoming (-11 cents), Minnesota (-10 cents), Utah (-10 cents) and Oregon (-9 cents).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Wisconsin ($1.30), Oklahoma ($1.40), Ohio ($1.46), Kentucky ($1.51), Michigan ($1.52), Arkansas ($1.53), Indiana ($1.54), Iowa ($1.55), Mississippi ($1.57) and Missouri ($1.58).
Great Lakes and Central States
Motorists in Michigan and Minnesota are seeing significant savings at the pump on the week, month and year. Both states land on the respective top 10 lists for biggest changes in the country:
State
Weekly Difference
Monthly Difference
Yearly Difference
Wisconsin
-13 cents
-85 cents
-$1.50
Minnesota
-10 cents
-52 cents
-$1.04
With this week’s pump price declines, Illinois ($1.88) is in the only state in the region with an average more than $1.75/gallon. Wisconsin ($1.30) carries the cheapest average in the region and country.
Regional gasoline stocks measure at 60.5 million bbl – the highest levels in 14 months. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports for the week ending April 3, stocks built by 2.6 million bbl. Gas prices will continue to push cheaper in the week ahead even with a number of regional refiners announcing cuts to combat declining demand.
South and Southeast
Florida ($1.84) is the only South and Southeast state with an overage more than $1.75/gallon. Oklahoma ($1.40), Arkansas ($1.53) and Mississippi ($1.57) carry the cheapest averages in the region and land on the top 10 list of states with the lowest averages. On the week, states in the region saw pump price declines for 4 to 11 cents.
Compared to a year ago, motorist in the South and Southeast are seeing significant savings – some pennies away from or more than $1/gallon: Oklahoma (-$1.20), Arkansas (-98 cents), Texas (-97 cents), Tennessee (-97 cents) and Georgia (-97 cents).
The EIA’s latest report shows regional gasoline stock levels at nearly 82 million bbl. That is a nearly 4 million bbl year-over-year surplus during a season that typically sees high volumes of demand. Late last week there was an explosion and fire at Valero’s 135,000 b/d in Meraux, Louisiana. The extent of the damage is unclear, but this type of event would typically put some pressure on local or state prices. However, given the current environment, any loss of production is likely to not have an impact at pumps.
Mid-Atlantic and Northeast
Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states are seeing gas prices decrease, but at a slower rate as compared to neighbors in the South and Mid-West. On the week, these states saw the largest declines in the region: Washington, D.C (-8 cents), Vermont (-6 cents), Connecticut (-6 cents), Rhode Island (-6 cents) and West Virginia (-6 cents). Gas prices now range from as cheap as $1.71 in North Carolina to as expensive as $2.25 in New York.
On the month, motorists in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states are seeing a savings at the pump between 27 to 49 cents. Vermont (-49 cents) and Maine (-45 cents) have the largest month-over-month difference.
Gasoline stocks continue to build in the region according to the latest EIA data. For the second week stocks saw a significant increase. This time 4.6 million bbl to push total levels to 70.5 million bbl – which is the highest level recorded by the EIA for the region in decades. As motorists in the region continue to stay at home, especially with the Center for Disease Control urging residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to refrain from non-essential domestic travel, the region can expect to see pump prices push cheaper as stocks to continue to increase.
Rockies
Three states in the Rockies region now have averages less than $2/gallon: Wyoming ($1.98), Montana ($1.90) and Colorado ($1.85). With a 17 cent decrease on the week, Idaho ($2.02) is close to joining the sub-par $2/gallon list. The state also saw the largest decrease in the region and the second largest in the country. Motorists in Utah ($2.17) are seeing gas prices decline, just not as fast as neighboring states.
For a second week, gasoline stocks increased. Total levels are now at a very health 9.4 million bbl – one of the highest measures on record. Stocks built as people are staying at home. Which is a reason regional refinery utilization is down to 71%, an unusually low rate reported by the EIA. Gas prices will continue to push cheaper, but the rate could slow at which they are decreasing.
West Coast
The West Coast region is seeing significant decreases despite carrying some of the most expensive averages in the country. On the week, Alaska (-19 cents) saw the largest decline in the region and the country. Hawaii ($3.24) and California ($2.87) remain the most expensive markets in the country. Washington ($2.59), Oregon ($2.54), Nevada ($2.45), Alaska ($2.21) and Arizona ($2.28) follow.
According to EIA’s latest weekly report, total gas stocks in the region increased from 34.06 million bbl to 34.9 million bbl last week. The increase in supply, alongside low crude prices and demand, will likely help to push pump prices lower in the region this week.
Oil Market Dynamics
At the end of Thursday’s formal trading session, WTI decreased by $2.33 to settle at $22.76 per barrel. Crude prices were volatile last week, during the run-up to OPEC’s historic agreement with its allies, including Russia. The group met to discuss global crude production cuts of up to 9.7 million b/d for May and June 2020. Under the new production reduction agreement, OPEC and its allies expect total global oil cuts to amount to more than 20 million b/d or 20 percent of global supply. Effective May 1, the production cuts are expected to ease in June, but some restrictions will remain in place through April 2022.
Crude prices will likely remain volatile this week, as the market assesses if the production cuts are sufficient to hold back growing global crude inventories as COVID-19 continues to push down demand.
Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.
With a majority of vehicle owners living in areas of the country that have stay-at-home orders, many vehicles may be sitting idle for days or weeks at a time. The non-profit Car Care Council recommends starting your car at least once a week and keeping up with routine auto care to help prevent potential maintenance issues.
“Just as it is recommended that people stay active during this time of social distancing, your car should get some activity as well,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “If your vehicle sits idle for too long, the battery could die, the tires can develop flat spots and the engine oil may start to deteriorate. Just a short solo drive once a week and a little car care will keep your car running efficiently and safely.”
When starting your car weekly, let it run for at least five minutes. If the vehicle is started in a garage, make sure the garage door is open and there is plenty of ventilation. In addition, the Car Care Council suggests monitoring the following areas of your vehicle if it sits idle for long periods of time.
Battery – Today’s vehicles have several computers that are always in operation, so if a car sits too long without recharging, the battery could die within a couple of weeks.
Tires – Maintain proper tire pressure to improve vehicle performance and gas mileage. Doing so is also important for vehicle safety. Checking the tire pressure frequently is more important if the car is parked for long periods of time. Vehicles that sit idle too long can develop flat spots, so taking a brief drive every once in a while will help prevent bald spots, and recharge the battery, too.
Fuel – Today’s modern fuel systems help preserve the life of the gas in your tank and also prevent fuel oxidation. Keeping a full tank of gas helps limit gas-tank condensation. If you are still concerned about the gas in your tank going bad, a fuel stabilizer may help extend the life of your fuel.
Oil – If a car sits too long, the oil can deteriorate, so continue to change the oil at the proper time intervals, even if you are not driving your normal mileage. It is always best to check the owner’s manual for the maximum time you should wait between oil changes.
Brakes – If a car sits idle, rust can start to form on the brake rotors, especially if the car is parked outside. Driving your car at least once a week will help prevent rust buildup.
Cleaning – Removing the grime and sediment that builds up on the outside of your car helps prevent rust, and cleaning the interior is important, too. Wipe down the dashboard, steering wheel, cup holders, door handles, vents and console with a quality, all-purpose automotive cleaner that will help disinfect the interior areas of your vehicle.
For more helpful information about maintaining your vehicle for safety, dependability and value, visit www.carcare.org/car-care-guide to order the Car Care Council’s free 80-page Car Care Guide.
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Carcare.org-Blog-Keep-Maintaining-Your-Vehicle-Even-If-It-Sits.jpg200300Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-04-09 12:05:362020-04-09 12:05:36Carcare.org Blog: Keep Maintaining Your Vehicle Even If It Sits Idle
While testing your struts is easy, strut replacement is not. First, shock and strut replacement requires lifting and supporting your vehicle to let the suspension hang. If you know how to use a jack and jack stands, you’re already halfway there. Second, strut replacement or coil-over shock replacement usually requires a special strut compressor tool to do the job safely. On the other hand, quick struts are a great DIY option.
Here are a few pro tips to help your strut installation go smoothly.
Why Use Quick Struts?
MacPherson struts and coil-over shocks require a strut compressor or spring compressor tool to disassemble. This heavy-duty tool is necessary to overcome the intense spring pressure that supports your vehicle. But you can still renew your suspension and ride quality by using a safer method. When considering rear coil-over shock installation, these quick struts are a convenient and time-saving solution. Instead of removing the shock and disassembling it, simply remove the entire unit and install a new one.
Identify Strut Orientation
When installing quick struts, match up left and right units as well as their orientation. Shocks and struts may have brackets and tabs for mounting other parts, like height sensors and brake lines. Also, spring orientation can affect ride quality and steering. Use a paint marker to identify strut position and orientation, so you can install the new assemblies similarly. Something as simple as an “L” or an arrow can save a lot of headaches after shock installation.
Support Your Car With Jack Stands
It may be tempting to lift the vehicle and remove the upper strut mounts with the wheels hanging, but the weight of the wheel may yank a wheel speed sensor cable or brake line, damaging it. After the vehicle is lifted and supported on jack stands, use the jack to support the control arm. Once the top mount is loosened — never touch the center nut — you can slowly lower the control arm to remove the whole strut assembly. If you see cables or hoses pulling, disconnect them from their brackets to prevent damage.
Maintain Proper Torque
Though the weight of the vehicle plays a large part in keeping struts in their place, torque at both top and bottom mounts is critical. Aside from keeping everything together — no one wants to lose a wheel on the highway — proper torque maintains alignment angles that prolong tire life and stabilize steering. Look up torque specifications in the repair manual or ask your local mechanic for more information.
Align Your Wheels
If the strut mounts to the knuckle, front or rear, slight variations in strut manufacture may skew alignment angles, resulting in pulling or abnormal tire wear. Coil-over shocks usually mount to the suspension arm, which don’t affect the alignment angle if removed. Either way, after strut or shock installation, a wheel alignment will get everything lined up properly.
Because there’s no real shock and strut replacement interval, shock installation is typically recommended only if they’re leaking or noticeably bouncy. If you don’t feel confident installing quick struts or performing any other DIY job, bring the job to your local mechanic for professional assistance.
https://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/1586289482_NAPA-Know-How-Pro-Tips-for-Strut-Installation.jpg6281200Advanced Auto Clinichttps://www.aacdelavan.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Advanced-Auto-Clinic-Delavan-LOGO_WHITE.pngAdvanced Auto Clinic2020-04-07 14:43:432020-04-07 14:58:03NAPA Know How: Pro Tips for Strut Installation