Brake Inspections Keep Small Issues from Becoming Big Problems

If it ain't broke, don't fix it is a common expression, but it should never be applied to your car's brakes. Waiting until the actually break can be dangerous. Having a brake inspection can prevent many potential problems.

During a brake inspection, a technician checks the brake pads, shoes, discs and brake lines. What they are looking for is the proper thickness or other measurements recommended by the manufacturer. 

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The Warning Signs of an Overheating Engine

The engine is the most important mechanical component in your vehicle. It converts gasoline into usable mechanical energy. The engine can overheat, and the high temperatures can damage the components in your vehicle. Fortunately, there are signs that can indicate a failing engine.

If the coolant level is low, the engine will overheat. A large drop in the fluid level is usually a sign of a clogged radiator. A damaged hose can cause overheating in the engine. Additionally, a faulty water pump can cause leaks and overheating in the engine. 

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Changing Out Cabin and Engine Air Filters


You might understand just how a cabin air filter works and you might realize why such a filter is important. You would like to breathe in clean air in your vehicle and it can help you do that. It is important for you to pay attention to your engine air filter, as well, as it will help your engine perform well.

There is dirt in the air that comes at your vehicle as you are driving, and you should look out for both your vehicle's engine and your own lungs by keeping your filters in good shape. Change out…
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How do mufflers work?

To understand the inner workings of a muffler, you need to understand the operation of sound in relationship to your car’s engine. The engine produces a certain sound frequency or vibration during the combustion process. When your exhaust valve opens, a pressure ridge of sound vents into the exhaust manifold that bounces against the lighter vibrations inside the manifold. This makes for a higher ridge of vibration that travels faster down the pipe than the fumes.

When the ridge of vibration reaches the muffler, the vibrations are channeled into different pipes that send the...

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Your Brake Pads Are Critical To The Braking System

Your brakes are one of the most important systems on your vehicle, and because they work so hard, they are naturally going to suffer from some of the worst wear and tear. Eventually, components of the system are going to wear out and need to be replaced. When this happens, it is important to have a basic understanding of how it all works so that you know what you're up against.

Your brake pads are going to be the most common thing that needs replacing. These are what actually cause the vehicle to stop. When you press the brake…

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Knowing When It's Time for a Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

Windshield wiper blades may be a small and inexpensive part, but they are a very important part of our vehicle. We at Porsche Monterey understand the importance of having good windshield wiper blades and have a full selection that fit most makes and models.

Don’t wait until your blades fail to work to have them replaced. Being able to see the road ahead of you clearly makes for safer driving. If the actual blades are clattering or making a squeaking noise, they’re ready to be replaced. They also need to be replaced if they’re leaving streaks behind…

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Understanding Front-Wheel vs. Rear-Wheel Drive


With a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the front wheels steer the car while the back wheels are responsible for powering the car down the road. When each tire is only responsible for one job, this usually results in better handling of the vehicle.

Drivers that love rear-wheel drive vehicles state that it is possible to turn easier, and have more overall control of the car. It is an old technology, and one that has been used for decades.

With front-wheel drive vehicles, traction in poor conditions such as ice and snow is better. With FWD, the interior of the vehicle has…
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Safety First: Check Your Alignment


One of the most important components of a car is its ability to properly steer, if your car does not steer properly it can affect not only your safety but the safety of other drivers on the road. Below are some signs that your car is not properly aligned:
  • Steering Wheel Off Center- One way to check if your steering wheel is centered is to check the car emblem in the center of the steering wheel if it is level then your car is properly aligned if it is not it is time to have your car serviced 
  • Car is…
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Without A Timing Belt Your Car Will Not Idle


Most car owners understand the basics of their vehicle but some lesser known parts such as the timing belt tend to fall by the wayside when it comes to average car knowledge. That is why we here at Porsche Monterey are here to tell you all about the basics. A timing belt works with the camshaft and the crankshaft in your motor to make sure that all of the proper valves are opening and closing at exactly the right time while you are driving. When your timing belt starts to fail you may notice that your vehicle won't be…
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Playing Hide and Seek With Your Spare Tire


As a driver, there is the unfortunate possibility that you will get a flat tire one day. It comes with the great benefits of the driving experience.

Your spare tire can be a full-size tire or a temporary spare tire. A full-size tire is more than likely going to be found in an obvious location within your vehicle. However, with a temporary spare tire, you might have to do a little bit of searching to find it. They are much smaller, and manufacturers tuck them away in very distinct compartments in your vehicle. It’s better to discover ahead of…
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