Are you curious about what happens when you turn your car’s steering wheel? Normally, there are many types of steering mechanisms, such as recirculating ball or electric power steering, for example. Rack and pinion is also a steering system you may have heard of. A rack and pinion steering system consists of a pinion (circular gear) and a rack (linear gear). The system converts rotational motion into linear motion. Most cars, small trucks, and SUVs have a rack and pinion steering system, as opposed to the recirculating ball steering found in large trucks, SUVs, and other heavy vehicles.

History of Rack and Pinion

Although rack and pinion steering is relatively new in U.S. automotive history, it is not a new concept. The first rack and pinion steering gears were developed by BMW in the 1930s, but they were only sold in the United States with the 1951 MG, and they were not used in American model production until the 1974 Ford Mustang II and Pinto. AMC used rack and pinion in the Pacer starting in 1975, but GM and Chrysler did not use them until the early 1980s for the X-body and K-Cars.

Manufacturers in the United States saw rack and pinion as logical. It had been used for many years by European and Asian automakers, and its design was simpler than recirculating ball steering gears, making it less expensive to manufacture. Rack and pinion steering is also much lighter than a traditional steering gear, meaning better fuel consumption. Idler arms, center links, drag link sleeves, and pitman arms are not needed with the rack and pinion design. This, in addition to the weight loss benefits. Rack and pinion systems are much easier to integrate into a front-wheel-drive system because they can be mounted near the transverse transmission. Steering gear ratios could also be tailored to each wheelbase as well as handling and option packages. Rack and pinion gears also give the driver a firmer feel in the steering wheel.

Rack and pinion systems are used not only for steering cars and small trucks but also for various other purposes. Rack and pinion systems are not only used to help trains climb steep slopes, but they also provide better brake control, especially in snowy and icy conditions. They are standard features in the majority of stairlifts. The rack and pinion mechanism is frequently powered by hydraulic or electric power.

Arthur Ernest Bishop invented the variable ratio rack in the 1970s. His variable ratio rack was used to improve vehicle handling when combined with a standard pinion.

Rack and Pinion Ratios

To go from lock to lock, most cars require three to four full turns of the steering wheel (from full right to full left). The steering ratio indicates how far you need to turn the steering wheel for the wheels to turn a certain distance. A higher ratio means you need to turn the steering wheel more to turn the wheels a certain amount, while a lower ratio means the steering responds more quickly.

Variable ratio steering is used in some vehicles. The center of this rack and pinion steering system has a different number of teeth per cm (tooth pitch) than the ends. As a result, when the steering wheel is turned towards the lock, it is more responsive than when it is near its center position, making the car more maneuverable.

There are two main types of rack and pinion steering systems:

• End Take-off – The tie rods are attached to the end of the steering rack via the inner tie rods.
• Center Take-off – Bolts attach the tie rods to the center of the steering rack.

How This System Works

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Rack and pinion steering works by converting the circular motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion needed to turn the wheels via a gear system. The gear set is housed in a metal tube. The tube has openings at both ends that allow the rack to be attached to a tie rod. The pinion is connected to the steering shaft so that when the steering wheel is turned, the gear turns and moves the rack. The tie rods are connected to a tie rod end, which is attached to the steering knuckle.

The rack and pinion gear set serves two purposes:

• Converting the rotational motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion needed for the vehicle’s wheels to turn
• Providing a gear reduction, making it easier to turn the wheels via the steering wheel

Signs of Problems

Since the rack and pinion are essentially gear mechanisms, they will wear out and fail over time, like almost every other component in your car. Here are the signs that Maintenance Tips think you should pay attention to:

Excessive Play or Loose Steering

Your steering wheel should feel “tight” when you operate it. That is, when you turn the steering wheel, you can feel the front wheels turning. If your rack and pinion are failing, you will notice the steering wheel starting to feel loose or that there is excessive play in the steering wheel. You will often feel that your car is slow to respond when you turn the steering wheel. The car will also feel more difficult to control and may wander at high speed.

At some point, you may also experience a dead spot. This is when you turn the steering wheel, but the front wheels do not turn until you turn it to a certain angle. This happens because the rack and pinion are not meshing tightly, meaning the rack does not actually move when you turn the wheel.

Noise When Turning

Your car may also make a clunking noise when you turn the steering wheel. A worn rack and pinion may not be sufficiently lubricated and can knock and rub against each other, creating noise.

Keep in mind that these noises can come from the tie rods or other suspension components. The difference is that if the noise is from a bad rack and pinion, you will hear the noise almost every time you turn the wheel. Meanwhile, clunking noises from the suspension assembly usually only occur when you go over bumps or make a tight turn.

Power Steering Fluid Leak

If you have hydraulic power steering in your car, you may start to see a power steering fluid leak when the rack and pinion are failing. If you see a puddle of red fluid under your car, it could be a power steering leak or a transmission fluid leak. Check where the leak is coming from to verify if it is power steering fluid or transmission fluid.

Keep in mind that a power steering leak can occur due to a bad power steering pump, a faulty reservoir, or leaking lines. Your rack and pinion might not be the cause in the first place. Furthermore, if your car has electric power steering, you will not see this issue. This is because electric power steering does not require any fluid to operate.

Replacement Costs

A rack and pinion replacement will cost between $1,000 and $1,900, including labor, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. The rack and pinion unit itself typically costs between $700 and $1,500, while labor costs can run up to $400. For example, the rack and pinion for a 2015 Toyota Corolla will cost you $717, add a labor cost of $400, and you get a repair bill of $1,117.

Of course, these are just rough estimates, and we are taking the upper end of the spectrum. Replacing the rack and pinion for your car may be cheaper than our estimate. Needless to say, luxury and high-performance cars are likely to cost more. The good news is that rack and pinion systems usually last quite a long time. They will typically last about 100,000 miles, and they can easily last longer than that. My Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, for example, has 120,000 miles on it and has no steering issues.

With such an expensive replacement job, you are probably wondering if it is really worth it? Before giving your mechanic the green light, it would be wise to check your car’s resale value on the used market. If your car’s value is still well above the repair cost, we would say the cost is worth it.

For example, if replacing the rack and pinion will cost you $1,200, but your car can still be sold for around $10,000, then the repair job is really worth it. However, if your car’s resale value is only about $3,000, it is not worth it. That is almost half the value of your car! In that case, you would probably be better off selling your car as-is.

Another option would be to scrap your car. You can either take it to a scrapyard or to a scrapping company that will pay the metal value of your car. Or you can also dismantle your car and sell individual parts and accessories. The latter option is time-consuming, but you will probably get more money out of your car. Ultimately, do not proceed with the repairs if your car’s market value is not significantly higher than the cost of the repair.

Conclusion

So, to summarize, the rack and pinion are at the heart of your car’s steering system. The rack is a linear gear that connects to the tie rods, which are ultimately connected to the front wheels. While the pinion is a round gear that sits on top of the rack and connects to the steering wheel via a steering column. The rack and pinion will last up to about 100,000 miles. But they can wear out, and when they start to fail, you will see noticeable symptoms. Some symptoms include clunking noises when you turn the steering wheel, power steering fluid leaks, and a loose steering wheel with a lot of play. This obviously makes steering and controlling the car more difficult. That is why you should not drive a car with a faulty rack and pinion, as it can lead to a major accident.

Almost all cars nowadays have a muffler. It’s an essential part of an internal combustion engine where it reduces or eliminates the sound of engine exhaust. Some symptoms of a bad muffler indicate that it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Bad mufflers are a common cause of car problems. If you experience symptoms such as excessive noise, exhaust smoke, or poor fuel consumption, it’s time to take action. Let’s review the symptoms so you can spot them immediately:

What are the typical symptoms of a bad muffler?

The car’s muffler is mounted near the end of the exhaust pipe to soundproof the engine noise. It has a perforated core with metal baffles inside, which breaks down and traps sound waves to limit noise pollution.

How to tell if the muffler is bad? Well, pay attention to these bad muffler symptoms to catch the problem before it turns into something serious:

Excessive exhaust noise

One of the obvious signs of a bad muffler. It is a soundproofing device that suppresses exhaust noise, not increases it. If you notice the car starting to make a loud noise, it could be due to a faulty muffler.

This could be due to a clogged or corroded muffler or a cracked pipe. Check the muffler and exhaust system for any leaks, damage, or obstructions.

Poor fuel economy

If you notice your car isn’t getting the advertised MPG or seems to be burning gas at an increased rate, it could be due to issues with the exhaust system and not just bad driving habits (though they can certainly contribute).

If your car takes longer to reach its top speed and you’re spending more money than usual on gas, it’s time to take action. An engine losing performance is indicative of a bad muffler.

A strong gas smell

A toxic gas smell is one of the symptoms of a bad muffler. An excessive amount of fumes from the engine compartment could signal a leak in the muffler, cracks inside, a damaged catalytic converter, etc. This problem requires immediate attention as harmful gases can spread into the cabin and cause health issues.

Rattling noise under the car

What does a bad muffler sound like? A loud engine noise is quite common, but it could also be a rattling noise under the vehicle. If you hear this, look for a loose exhaust mount or a broken pipe. The rattling noise could also be the result of the exhaust pipe dragging on the ground.

A misfiring engine

A misfiring engine is among the telltale signs of muffler problems. If you notice your car’s RPMs are all over the place, it could be due to clogged catalytic converters or other issues with the exhaust system components. Misfires can occur for many reasons, and problems with the exhaust system are among them.

Car starters are an integral part of car operation. They help ensure the vehicle can start easily and smoothly, even under tough conditions. But how long do car starters last?

Starters can malfunction for many reasons. They have a specific lifespan and are bound to fade after that period. Additionally, your driving habits, the vehicle’s age, and a few other factors play a role in their longevity. If you commute daily, it could lead to faster wear on your starter. Moreover, older vehicles may have more wear, resulting in premature failure of their starters.

How long do car starters last?

Starters are a simple yet vital component of the car engine. They are not expensive, but replacement is a bit complicated, which increases labor costs. Will you worry about its failure? Not really. If you know the average lifespan of a car starter, you can stay on schedule with your maintenance plan and avoid complications from a failing starter.

How long does a starter last in a car? Counting mileage is not the most reliable way to time a starter’s lifespan. It’s unlikely that two starters from the same manufacturers will last the same duration. A car starter can last between 200,000 and 30,000 miles. So, you can’t tell if the starter is about to die just by looking at the mileage.

However, if you drive an older vehicle or one with higher mileage, the starter may need to be replaced sooner than these numbers suggest.

How many years does a starter last? It’s also hard to predict as there is no standard time period. But it’s likely to last for years. A brand-new starter without defects can last up to 80,000 starts, which is a huge number. Since you only need to start your car twice a day, you’ll only use 730 starts per year. In reality, the number will be lower because you don’t need to drive the car every day.

How often should you change your starter?

How long does a car starter last? Since there’s no specific way to know, you need to pay attention to warning signs. Sometimes it stops working without showing any symptoms. Otherwise, you should watch for these signs:

• It takes several attempts for the starter to engage.
• The starter cranks slower than usual. This can happen even if the car has a new or fully charged battery.
• The starter doesn’t work on a hot engine but functions normally when the engine cools down.
• Unusual grinding noises from the starter.

Conclusion

So, how long do car starters last? Well, you already know that many factors are involved. How often the engine cranks, the actual age of your vehicle, and how you take care of it are all important factors for how long a starter will function properly.

Many questions come to mind when wondering if a car can be driven after being submerged in water. Will the engine still work? Will the electrical system short-circuit? These are all valid questions, and we will answer them here.

Will a Car’s Engine Work After Being Submerged?

The simple answer is “yes,” but it will depend on so many “ifs” and “buts.” Unless you are in an accident, a car can be submerged only due to a flood. And floodwaters contain dirt and water mixed with caustic and abrasive materials. It will be more damaging if you live in coastal areas because saltwater destroys various car components quite quickly.

After being flooded, some vehicles may start on the first try. But you should not do this. Running the engine without checking all components and doing a cleaning would be a foolish move.

So, to properly operate a car after submerging it in water, you need to follow certain steps.

Perform a Thorough Cleaning

The first step is to clean all the mud and dirt. If the water reaches the bottom of the car door, the engine might be safe. In that case, you can settle for cleaning only the floor, upholstery, tires, and exterior. Be patient enough to check all corners and crevices. Floodwater can damage any part if it remains there for a long time.

However, it’s bad news if water enters under the hood. You need to hire an expert to check whether the engine and other related components are still working or not. The expert must examine the engine, power steering, braking system, fuel line, and other parts.

Check the Engine

Modern cars have good sealing at every joint to keep external elements away from the engine. But if the car remains waterlogged for a few days or more, water will enter the engine. And if the seal is deteriorated in any way, you will need to change some parts.

There are many cases where water enters various engine compartments and connectors, such as in the brake booster vacuum lines or components of the vapor recovery unit.

Water in the engine could be extremely damaging. Sometimes, the repair cost exceeds and almost reaches the car’s current expert value.

Inspect the Electrical System and Other Parts

Next, you need to know if the electrical system was short-circuited when the car was underwater. You can probably get away with replacing a few fuses and spark plugs if there is no other damage inside the car. It is always safe to bring an electrician to take a look.

Other parts requiring thorough checking are the tires, battery, exhaust pipe, door and window seals, locks, and other minor components.

Conclusion

Bringing a submerged car back to life is not impossible. But there are many factors to consider, such as whether the engine has been damaged by flooding or not. So, it is better to call an expert for advice before trying anything yourself. It will be better to abandon that car if the repair costs exceed its value.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology, the automotive industry has introduced to the market many types of automatic transmissions with structures and principles suited to operation and use, which also enhance vehicle performance, such as the 5-speed automatic transmission, the 6-speed automatic transmission, or the 8-speed automatic transmission… In this section, we will provide drivers with more information and knowledge about a type of automatic transmission that is very popular today – the 6-speed automatic transmission. Let’s take an in-depth look and discover What does 6-speed automatic mean? and how to use it.

What does 6-speed automatic mean?

A 6-speed automatic transmission is a car transmission equipped with 6 forward drive gears (although there are many more actual physical “gears” inside the transmission). Unlike manual transmissions, automatic transmissions can shift gears automatically based on the analysis of factors such as load, speed, and throttle position. The function of this type of transmission is to alter the engine speed gear ratio and the wheel torque like other gearboxes. The first 3 gears act as drive gears and multiply your car’s engine torque. The 5th and 6th gears are like overdrive and are mainly used when driving on the highway.

The role of these gears is to reduce the engine speed when the drive shaft rotates. With the corresponding 6 gears, the ECU will have more options to assist in the best balance between engine torque and wheel resistance. Thus, helping drivers easily perform maneuvers such as parking, reversing, and steering. Because it’s an automatic transmission, you don’t need to shift gears, your car will do it for you; all you have to do is drive your car.

6-speed automatic transmission: how does it work?

The principle of the 6-speed automatic transmission works efficiently through torque from the engine’s crankshaft to the hydraulic torque converter, and from the torque converter to the transmission’s input shaft. At this point, the signal from the Electronic Control Unit’s sensor will operate, allowing the path to the clutches to open and close. For the torque to be transmitted to the output shaft in the gearbox, the 2 clutches must be closed.

• When your car moves forward: The speed clutch or the forward drive clutch corresponding to the vehicle’s speed will close.
• If the vehicle is held in neutral (N): Only the second clutch is closed; the forward drive clutch must be open. This is the reason why torque cannot be transmitted to the gearbox’s output shaft.
• The car reverses: With a 6-speed automatic transmission composed of 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, clutches 2 and 5 close.

Compared to other types of gearboxes in general, the 6-speed automatic transmission has many exceptional advantages such as faster and smoother gear changes, fuel economy, a significantly reduced risk of engine stalling, and easy control of your car even in crowded places.

How to drive a 6-speed automatic transmission?

Automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, so it’s essential to learn how to drive a 6-speed automatic transmission before letting the car roll. Like other automatic transmission cars, 6-speed automatic cars also use symbols on the automatic transmissions as follows:

Meaning of symbols on a 6-speed automatic gearbox

N (Neutral): The function of this gear is to disconnect your engine from the wheels. You can use it when taking a break in the car or when coasting downhill.

R (Reverse): Used when the driver wants to reverse the car

P (Park): You can use this function when the vehicle is stopped or parked in one place for a long time.

D (Drive): This position sets your transmission to the drive gear. Use it when the driver wants to move forward.

M (Manual): You can shift gears manually, and it helps the driver control the addition and subtraction of gears when overtaking or going uphill and downhill.

S (Sport): The letter “S” on the automatic transmission means Sport mode. When you switch to this mode, you will see the car’s RPM increase faster than usual and provide a more dynamic driving sensation.

L (Low): You shift to this lower gear when your car is climbing or towing another vehicle.

‘+/- : This icon indicates whether you need to shift up or down.

How to use the 6-speed automatic transmission?

Safely start a 6-speed automatic car:

If your car uses a key, turn the key clockwise and press the brake pedal to start the car. For vehicles equipped with a Start/Stop button, it will be simpler; just have the key nearby, and the driver presses the brake pedal and touches the start button. Note, when starting a 6-speed automatic car, the driver must remember to check the gear lever is in the P position, press the brake pedal, and lower the handbrake if it was used previously, before starting the engine.

Some models do not require the driver to press the brake pedal when starting. Furthermore, it is possible to leave the gear lever in the N position when starting, but the driver should regularly use the operation of P gear – press brake – start as a habit to ensure safety.

How to stop and park with a 6-speed automatic car

To stop the vehicle, the driver should move the gear lever to the D position, press the pedal quickly, and then engage the parking brake if necessary. If the vehicle needs to be stopped for a long time, the driver should put the gear lever in the N or P position.

Stopping at a traffic light when driving an automatic car

Driving when stopping at a red light can be flexible between using the N or D position. Consequently, many people have experience driving a 6-speed automatic transmission. When you stop at a red light, the time is usually short; remain in D position, press the brake, and release the brake when moving.

Final thoughts: What does the 6-speed automatic gearbox mean?

With features suited to drivers, the 6-speed automatic transmission is currently the most commonly used type of transmission in vehicles. When using a 6-speed automatic transmission, the driver can easily leave the car in D position. And just move the gear lever when you want to reverse or use it for parking. On the other hand, the gear shifting speed of the 6-speed automatic transmission is also smoother than the 6-speed manual transmission. The gear ratios are more nuanced than the 4 and 5-speed automatic transmissions.

Have you heard that it’s bad to drive in 4WD all the time? I bet you have! But is it really true? Well, there are several reasons why it can be bad for your car. 4WD can be invaluable in certain conditions, especially on off-road trails. But if you don’t need it, there are several reasons why running your car in 4WD will cause problems on the road.

Why Running 4WD All the Time Is Bad for Your Car

The negative effects of using 4WD depend on what you mean by “bad.” If you’re asking whether it’s better to use your car’s four-wheel drive (4WD) function only when needed, the answer is no. But if you’re wondering if driving with your vehicle in four-wheel drive mode for a long time will cause damage to the car, then there are a few factors that come into play.

Let’s see what can happen if you forget to switch from 4WD to 2WD on the highway or in normal road conditions:

Burning More Fuel

The first thing to mention is energy efficiency. When you drive in four-wheel drive mode, your car can consume about 25% more fuel than in two-wheel drive mode. And since gas prices are constantly going up and down these days, using more gas isn’t exactly what most drivers want.

When you use four-wheel drive mode, your car’s engine has to work harder than if it were in two-wheel drive mode. That’s because the 4WD system engages additional gears and drive shafts.

This means more fuel and energy are needed to handle all that extra power used by the engine. This will result in higher gas bills at the pump.

Destroying the Transmission

If your car is running in four-wheel drive mode, it means there’s more weight on all the wheels. This can put a lot of stress and pressure on the wheels, leading to faster deterioration or damage.

Driving a part-time four-wheel drive car on dry pavement can damage the differential and front axles. The constant drive torque can seize the front axle and damage or wear out the gears inside your car’s transfer case.

Higher Accident Risks

Driving in four-wheel drive mode for long periods can cause accidents. If you turn at high speed and it’s raining, you’re more likely to lose control of your car. This happens because you can’t brake as quickly since your vehicle has more weight on all the wheels. This puts other drivers around you at risk of being involved in an accident.

Conclusion

It’s not advisable to drive in 4WD mode all the time. Except for certain specific conditions such as hauling cargo or climbing, using this feature for long periods will bring bad news. It can damage and wear out your car’s engine parts, such as axles, transmission, brakes, and suspension systems. If you want safer driving while saving money on gas, drive your car with 4WD mode only when necessary.

We are fortunate to have such a range of luxury features in our cars these days. Aren’t you grateful to have fresh air blown on your face when it’s hot outside, and your heater to keep you warm during the cold months? That said, if you live in extreme weather conditions, your heating and air conditioning might fall far short. This is where heated, cooled, and ventilated seats come into play.

While your HVAC system takes some time to bring the cabin temperature to a comfortable level, these high-tech seats would warm or cool you directly and thus instantly. If you’re still unsure whether they are essential or just nice to have, read on to find out how each of these seats works and if they are worth it.

Are Heated, Cooled, and Ventilated Seats Worth It?

If you are lucky enough to enjoy bearable weather year-round, your car’s heating and air conditioning might be all you need. However, if you live somewhere extremely hot in summer and freezing in winter, heated, cooled, and ventilated seats would not be luxury features, but actually an essential upgrade.

Instant Relief and Safer Driving

First, they provide almost instant comfort, and in extreme weather conditions, this can mean safer driving and not having to wait for your HVAC system to restore your car to a livable temperature before setting off. Imagine heading to work early in the morning when it’s freezing outside and sitting on that icy cushion: you might have to turn up the heat and wait a while until you’re no longer shivering to drive properly. Or perhaps you park your car outside in summer and, when you return, the seat cushion is so hot it could practically fry an egg. You won’t be leaving anytime soon!

So, how do they provide instant relief? Your air conditioning and heater blow cool or warm air through the vent and try to regulate the entire cabin. In contrast, heated seats have an internal component that heats up from electrical energy, while cool or ventilated seats blow cool air directly onto the person sitting on them. This means the seating surfaces your body is in contact with will feel warmer or cooler almost immediately.

In hot weather, your back and seat will be very cool, and your clothes won’t develop those embarrassing sweat stains. And you might be one of those people who prefer having cool, refreshing air blown directly onto their overheated body rather than having it blown on their face through the vents.

Remote Activation

Some cars offer heated, cooled, and ventilated seats that can be activated remotely. Therefore, you can turn them on before getting into the car, and it will save you from burning your bottom on the scorching upholstery. Many of these seats also allow drivers and passengers to easily adjust their own comfort level.

Less Fuel Consumption and Pollution

This more efficient temperature regulation mechanism also means that heated, cooled, or ventilated seats consume less fuel and are more environmentally friendly than ordinary heating and air conditioning. Of course, these seats still consume fuel, but they minimize fuel consumption and air pollution.

How Heated, Cooled, and Ventilated Seats Work

Heated Seats

Heated seats are more common than cooled or ventilated seats, and on many luxury models, they have become a standard feature. Heated seats work through a heating element placed between the seat cushion and the padding. When the heated seat is activated, an electric current passes through the heating element, heating it up.

Cooled Seats

Cool seats use many different methods, but the most common includes several fans inside the seat. These fans blow air through a layer of material to diffuse the air and then circulate the air through the padding.

These cool seats may or may not refrigerate the air before blowing it onto the occupant. A cooling unit is necessary in the case of refrigerated air. Even when it’s not refrigerated, the circulation of air blown directly onto your overheated body makes a big difference in keeping you cool in your seat.

You might be skeptical, but remember that our body initially ejects heat through pores as sweat. But when your back and buttocks are pressed against the car seat, that moisture cannot escape from the pores; it’s like wearing a jacket in summer.

Meanwhile, a cooled seat with a typically porous covering allows your skin to breathe and eject moisture, enabling your body’s natural cooling system to function even when your back and buttocks are pressed against the padding. The porous material helps air pass through the seat and escape into the environment instead of being trapped under the padding. Such air circulation across your skin helps draw heat away from your body, allowing sweat to work as usual.

In the case of cooled seats that operate through non-refrigerated air circulation and thus without a cooling unit, the cooling process requires much less energy than cooled seats with a cooling unit. In fact, it would consume less energy than a classic light bulb.

In cooled seats with a cooling element that produces refrigerated air, the cooling element may be located in the seat or in the car’s larger air conditioning system. These cooling units operate on a compression, condensation, expansion cycle, like any typical air conditioner.

In a closed loop, a gas (freon, but now more commonly hydrofluorocarbon) is compressed and then condensed to cool into a liquid. Air is blown in front of the cold liquid in the loop and is thus also cooled. The heated liquid is then turned back into gas, and the process repeats.

Ventilated Seats

Cooled and ventilated seats both help you cool down, the only difference being that ventilated seats use only non-refrigerated air. As their name suggests, ventilated seats also have multiple fans and ducts inside the seat cushion and backrest to circulate air. Some systems use these fans to blow air toward the occupant through tiny perforations in the upholstery, while others draw air into the seat.

With ventilated seats, you can often adjust the air strength in addition to turning the function on or off. In some models, like Chevrolet, you can set ventilated seats to automatic, so they turn on when the cabin temperature reaches a level you previously set. In other cases, when it’s hot outside, ventilated seats turn on when remote start is used.

Where You Can Find Them

Heated and cooling seats have been a common feature in automobiles for some time. You can expect to find these features in most models after 2015, either as a standard feature or as a trim level add-on. Note that you might find cooled seats listed as “ventilated seats,” so read further to find out if they use refrigerated air, if that’s what you want.

Meanwhile, ventilated seats are a rarer luxury feature. You are more likely to find this comfort feature in high-end models like the Audi A4, Lexus ES 350, and BMW 540i. Ventilated seats are also offered in some non-luxury models, albeit in higher versions, such as the Toyota Camry XLE, Honda Civic Hatchback, Subaru Outback and Crosstrek, Hyundai Tucson and Sonata, and Ford Mustang Escape.

If you need more than heated, cooled, or ventilated seats to survive driving in extreme heat or cold conditions, there are also models that offer these comfort seats with a heated or ventilated steering wheel as well as other heated interior features.

But note that although these comfort features have become a staple over the years, the technology and execution of this feature differ from one manufacturer to another. Many car buyers have complained about their ineffective heated or cooled seats, and once you’ve already purchased the vehicle, there’s nothing you can do about it. Therefore, do your homework and take the time to go through reviews.

Other Temperature Regulation Options for You

As mentioned above, heated seats are the most common feature in the group. So you can add them if your car isn’t equipped with them, and most installations will cost less than $500 per seat.

Although you cannot install cooling seats in your vehicle, an affordable solution in hot weather is to buy air-conditioned seat cushions that plug into your car’s electrical system. Many car manufacturers offer them for models without cooled or ventilated seats. This method is less permanent, so you can take it from one vehicle to another. These cushions have built-in fans and sometimes cooling units. One advantage is that they don’t consume much energy.

It can be a frustrating experience when the oil warning light comes on regularly but your car stops. And some drivers may not know what to do in this situation. Don’t worry! In this article, we will address the most likely culprit behind your problem: the oil light comes on when stopped.

Why My Oil Light Comes On When Stopped: 5 Possible Causes!

Engine oil plays an important role in maintaining engine performance. It is extremely important to ensure your car always has enough lubricating oil, not only to make your vehicle more durable but also to ensure user safety. To inform drivers about the engine oil condition, car manufacturers have integrated a warning light system to alert about engine oil-related issues.

Usually, you notice the oil light comes on and off while driving, but when this light comes on when your car stops, it’s a very rare problem. And what are the reasons, let’s find out! As we all know, oil pressure will increase and decrease depending on your engine’s RPM. When the engine stops or idles, the oil pressure decreases and as the RPM increases, the oil pressure increases. At that moment, the oil warning light comes on if the oil pressure drops too low. But that’s not the only reason, there are other causes you can consider:

Faulty Oil Pump

No matter how much oil you fill without a functioning oil pump, it’s worthless. The engine oil pump creates oil pressure in the engine. If the pump doesn’t work, the oil pressure will drop and thus trigger the oil alert when your engine stops. You can change the oil pump if it starts to show signs of wear. It should last somewhere between 60,000 and 70,000 miles in a properly maintained and regularly serviced vehicle.

Dirty Engine Oil

One of the other reasons why the oil light comes on when the car is stopped is that the engine oil is dirty or old. Failing to maintain, check, and periodically replace the oil as needed will cause the oil and some other fluids to degrade. Then, the sludge formed from the metamorphic oil will cause sensors such as the oil pressure sensor to detect and turn on the oil indicator. Therefore, it is necessary to change the oil and clean the engine part regularly to prevent dirty oil from causing the oil light to come on.

Low Oil Pressure

Low oil pressure is a case where the oil in the tank is still full, but not of sufficient quality, as this can be due to the car owner using the wrong type of oil. This problem can occur when the temperature difference between warm and cold seasons is significant. So, in summer, your car may use high viscosity oil (10W – 30), the cold season should be changed to 5W-30 to be appropriate. Otherwise, the oil warning light will come on even when your car stops. In addition to having to change the oil regularly, one must choose an oil with a viscosity index suitable for the weather temperature.

Worn Engine Bearing

Faulty or worn engine bearings can be the main reason why the engine light illuminates your car’s dashboard. Typically, an oil pump delivers a fixed amount of fluid (i.e., 20 gallons per minute). when there are signs of wear or a leak in the clearance between the engine bearings or the hydraulic lifter, your engine will lose oil pressure. Therefore, excessive clearance between the bearings due to excessive bearing wear will lead to a loss of oil pressure, especially at low RPM when the pump is running at its slowest speed.

Faulty Oil Pressure Sensor

After checking all the details, but I still can’t find the reason why the oil light comes on. It is possible that the oil pressure sensor has been damaged due to long-term dirt buildup and frequent exposure to high temperatures. However, sometimes the circuit of the warning light on the dashboard encounters problems. The quality and condition of the engine oil are measured by an oil pressure sensor. The pressure sensor will send a signal through the pressure light so that users have information, check it, and handle it promptly. Please regularly monitor the sensor’s resistance to promptly detect abnormal signs causing damage.

These are the 5 most common causes. Why does my oil light come on when I stop? Make sure to properly diagnose the causes to find the most suitable solutions. Because the process of using lubricating oil is very important for the vehicle’s operation. Therefore, when there are problems that cause the oil light to come on, it is necessary to check and handle it in time before the car’s condition gradually worsens.

Some Tips When Changing Engine Oil

• Fill just the right amount of engine oil up to the reference line, neither too little nor too much. Check the oil level gauge on the vehicle or use a dipstick for vehicles that don’t have a measuring device.
• Regularly clean the engine and vehicle parts.
• Regularly check the oil pressure sensor. The engine should not be overloaded, causing high temperatures and reducing the machine’s durability.
• Use oil with an index suitable for the temperature.
• Take your car to the nearest mechanic’s garage, to have it checked and handled quickly if you notice the oil warning light comes on.

You know that turning on your car’s air conditioning in summer gives you a cool and refreshing feeling, but have you ever wondered if it has an effect on the engine?

Some people think that running the AC will make your engine hotter due to all the extra work it has to do. Many others think exactly the opposite. According to them, the air conditioning transfers some of the heat from inside a vehicle to the outside via vents designed to move hot air away from the passengers (instead of keeping them warm).

Which theory is true? Let’s find out.

Does a Running Air Conditioner Cool a Car Engine?

No.

In order to better understand how air conditioning affects a car engine, we need to know the basics of how an internal combustion engine works. Ignoring all other factors, such as fuel and oil consumption (which depend on driving conditions), running the AC will cause greater power consumption from your engine in order to compress the refrigerant gas that is cooled.

The extra power used by the AC will make your engine hotter, which could lead to higher operating costs for gasoline and oil consumption (unless you are very careful with AC usage).

With the air conditioning on, you will literally hear the engine noise because of its harder and faster rotation. It spins at a higher speed to combat the extra heat generated by the engine.

Furthermore, a car engine is designed to operate best at a maximum temperature between 195 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Running the AC adds to this temperature, making your engine less efficient.

But don’t worry too much. These side effects of using the AC in summer are generally minimal and will not cause major damage if you take care of the engine properly.

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How to Protect the Car Engine in Summer

So, where does this leave us? In general, running the AC will increase your car’s power consumption, with a corresponding decrease in energy efficiency. But you can still enjoy a pleasant drive without harming the engine.

A good way to avoid the drawbacks of running the air conditioning in summer is to try a new approach: use it not as an internal cooling system, but rather for its air conditioning function. If you are going to drive a short distance, turn it on for a few minutes when the car is idling in the driveway. This will pre-cool your car and keep the interior cool during the short trip.

Another good option is to open the windows when it’s not too hot. Remember that you can also run your air conditioner for a short period before getting on the highway, then turn it off as soon as you start driving. This way, you’ll enjoy the benefits without having to worry about negative side effects.

Conclusion

Running your air conditioner in summer can have negative effects on a car’s engine. However, this is completely normal, and you can let the air conditioner run on those hot days. If the engine overheats, take the car to a repair shop as there may be other internal issues.

Many people may know that your engine oil’s role is to lubricate engine parts and prevent engine overheating, but always neglect routine oil changes. Skipping regular oil changes may not seem serious, but it will make the engine less efficient, which will harm performance, power, and mileage as well as your delicate engine’s longevity.

Note that relying solely on mileage to schedule an oil change is not enough, as the oil can become contaminated well before those marks and cause permanent engine damage. Learn the signs that you need an oil change to know in time when to change the oil to guarantee optimal engine performance and lifespan.

Why You Need to Change Oil Regularly

The Role of Engine Oil

A general rule is that anything that creates friction in your vehicle’s engine or any mechanical element will harm engine performance and energy efficiency. That’s where engine oil comes in. Engine oil helps absorb the engine’s heat and lubricates the moving metal parts that would otherwise grind together, thus ensuring proper operation and further preventing engine overheating.

That’s why it’s important to change all your truck’s fluids on time to ensure it’s always in perfect condition. Lubricating your engine parts with good engine oil and changing the oil regularly helps optimize engine performance, power, and mileage. Regular oil changes reduce engine wear and extend the car engine’s lifespan. It can even make your high-mileage car run longer. Furthermore, clean, quality oil allows the engine to run cleaner, which will reduce exhaust emissions.

How Oil Gets Dirty

Over time, all types of engine oil, even the highest qualities, become contaminated with dirt and carbon, which can lead to excessive engine wear. There’s certainly the oil filter that catches the deposits that accumulate over time to keep the oil clean and smooth. However, as the oil ages, the amount of deposits in the oil can be excessive, and the filter may not be able to extract everything.

Recommended Oil Change Interval

You can check the recommended oil change interval for your car in the owner’s manual. The recommended interval for an oil change is about every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, before winter, or whenever your manufacturer recommends it. Also consider checking the engine oil level once every two weeks and before any long trip.

However, as mentioned above, relying solely on these fixed mileage intervals is not reliable, and you should look for various signs that you need an oil change.

Switching from Traditional Oil to Synthetic Oil

While traditional, cheaper non-synthetic oil needs to be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, synthetic oils can last between 5,000 and 10,000 miles between oil changes. They create better lubrication between moving parts, thus better preventing engine overheating. They also perform better and do not deteriorate in high-heat and high-stress situations.

Synthetic oils also offer much better performance in cold weather, whereas non-synthetic oils would become too thick to do their job properly, while providing excellent protection at extreme temperatures. Some synthetic oil brands are specially designed to be more robust in terms of deposit protection, cold-weather pumpability, and high-heat stability.

Overall, they are better food for your engine and will help keep your engine healthier and more efficient longer. The only major drawback of synthetic oil is that it is significantly more expensive, typically twice as much as conventional oil of equivalent viscosity.

Preventing Oil from Thickening

Engine oil thickens in winter, making the pump work harder, it won’t circulate efficiently, and will thus directly chase away your engine’s performance and mileage.

One solution is to switch entirely to a lighter oil if you live in consistently cold climates or when winterizing your vehicle before winter arrives. It is recommended to switch to a 0W30 or 0W40 oil to speed up oil flow in below-freezing conditions.

Switching from a thick 20W50 to a thinner 5W30 will make a noticeable difference in terms of responsiveness. For most light trucks, 10W30 should be a good compromise, but consult your owner’s manual for factory recommendations. Even if you cannot use lighter oil, regular oil changes will prevent your oil from thickening excessively over time.

Also remember that you will likely need a thicker oil if you are hauling or towing a mobile home behind. That said, consult your owner’s manual and always follow your manufacturer’s recommendations. Because unless you are frequently towing or hauling, thicker viscosity oils might not be necessary for your vehicle.

The Consequences of a Delayed Oil Change

It depends on how long you’ve delayed the change. All vehicles come with a number provided by the manufacturer that indicates how many miles you can expect your oil to last. However, it often refers to the lowest miles you can safely drive without changing the oil.

So, there’s nothing to fear if you drive a little more than the recommended miles. However, if you’ve been overdue for a long time, that old oil can cause serious, permanent damage to various engine parts and lead you to costly repairs and replacements.

If you skip a regular oil change, your engine will run less efficiently, and it can lead to engine overheating, as the oil can no longer properly lubricate the parts to prevent them from heating up. Consequently, you will encounter one or more abnormalities, including deteriorated performance and energy efficiency, increased emissions, and starting problems.

7 Signs You Need an Oil Change

Dark and Dirty Oil

Fresh oil keeps the engine healthy by lubricating all the parts and helping them move smoothly. However, the older it gets, the more its molecules break down and create problems for the vehicle.

How to tell if engine oil is bad? The oil’s color and smell can be signs that you need an oil change. Fresh oil has an amber color. However, it becomes black and greasy after collecting dirt and particles from the engine parts. It’s best to check the oil every month to see if it has changed color. You should know the original color of the oil you use, and even better its smell, to facilitate your car’s long-term maintenance.

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it with a cloth, and insert it back into the cylinder. Remove it and check the oil’s color. Rub it on a white paper towel to be sure. If the color is dark red or very dark to almost look black, then the oil is quite old. If you’re still unsure, another telltale sign that you need an oil change is if the oil smells burnt when you sniff that dipstick.

An important note, however, because a common confusion is how dark is considered “dark.” All engine oil becomes darker as it goes through engines, and in some cases, oil can become noticeably darker in a short time or almost immediately, so relying solely on color is not always a reliable sign that you need an oil change.

A helpful tip is to also check the consistency whenever you inspect your oil level. Over time, oil can pick up grime and dirt, and all those small particles will make the fluid less smooth and more gritty. If your oil has a lot of grit, it’s a certain sign that you need an oil change.

*Note: Sometimes you might notice that the engine oil color is somewhat milky or creamy. Well, that indicates that the oil contains water. It could be engine coolant getting into the oil due to a leaking head gasket. This also happens when you drive short distances and the engine cannot produce enough heat to burn off that water. Instead, it creates water vapor, which mixes with the oil.

Thus, a creamy engine oil color doesn’t necessarily need to be replaced if it’s due to short trips. You just need to drive the engine enough so that those water vapors can evaporate.

Loud Engine Noise

Fresh oil creates a thin shield between engine parts to protect them from friction and keep the engine quiet while driving. Thus, any strange noise coming from under the hood is a sign that you need an oil change, and you should schedule a car oil change with a mechanic as soon as possible.

However, heat and other engine conditions break down the lubricant, causing engine parts to create a knocking or rattling noise when the car is moving.

You might also hear a ticking noise while your engine is warming up. This is because as soon as you start your vehicle, the oil is immediately circulated to lubricate the engine. If the engine oil is old and is no longer smooth but gritty with contaminants, the oil won’t do its job properly and won’t move as freely through the system. This ticking noise comes from the valves having to work very hard just to circulate the oil effectively.

Shaking at Idle

Without proper lubrication, your engine won’t run as well, so the high level of friction present in your engine can cause abnormal vibrations or shaking movements at idle. If you notice this issue, it’s best to avoid idling as much as possible until you can get your oil changed.

Exhaust Smoke

Sometimes, a thin white vapor comes out of the exhaust pipe in cold weather, which is normal and disappears when your engine warms up, so it’s not a cause for concern. However, if it’s actual smoke, check the oil level as well as its color and texture. You shouldn’t see anything coming out of your exhaust pipe, and when you do, it’s a sure sign that something is wrong, including contaminated engine oil.

That said, if you see thick white smoke from your exhaust, the reason could be an oil leak or faulty engine parts like cracked head gaskets, which would mean a very costly, lengthy, and inconvenient inspection and replacement, so you should take your vehicle to a repair shop to have it checked.

Smell of Oil Inside the Vehicle

This should never happen. If it does, it could mean engine overheating or an oil leak. As this can lead to a serious problem, take your car to a service center immediately and opt for an oil change.

Lower Fuel Economy Than Usual

As above, quality, contaminant-free engine oil allows the engine to run at optimal efficiency, and the direct result of that is better mileage. Therefore, one of the obvious signs that you need an oil change is decreased fuel economy. If after a long trip, you notice your car is suddenly using much more fuel than usual, you should expect to get your oil changed as soon as possible.

Oil Change Light or Check Engine Light Comes On

Another sign that you need an oil change is the oil change light coming on. The dashboard has an oil change light that illuminates when the oil level is too low in the system. Once you see the light, use the dipstick to check the level and change it if it’s insufficient.

Note that if your car doesn’t have an oil change light or if your oil problem is very severe, the Check Engine light may come on on your dashboard. Of course, various mechanical issues can trigger this, so if this light comes on, it’s best to have a mechanic perform an inspection to determine if the old oil is the only culprit, or if something else triggered this light.

The general rule is to get the car’s oil changed every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. However, you can extend it to 6,000 miles or six months if your vehicle is new. Remember that changing your engine oil is a simple but most helpful service you can provide to your automobile. Doing it regularly will keep your car in good condition and extend its lifespan.