[email protected]Brake Service

The Importance of Brake Inspections and Maintenance

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components. Regular brake inspections and maintenance ensure that your car stops efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and costly repairs. Here’s why maintaining your brakes is essential and how to recognize when they need attention.

Why Brake Inspections Are Important

  1. Safety First – Properly functioning brakes help prevent collisions by allowing you to stop quickly and safely.
  2. Prevents Costly Repairs – Addressing minor brake issues early can prevent more expensive repairs later.
  3. Improves Vehicle Performance – Well-maintained brakes contribute to a smoother, more controlled driving experience.
  4. Extends Brake System Lifespan – Routine inspections and timely replacements prolong the life of your brake pads, rotors, and calipers.

Signs Your Brakes Need Maintenance

1. Squeaking or Grinding Noises

Unusual noises when braking often indicate worn brake pads that need replacement.

2. Vibrations or Pulsations

If you feel vibrations in the steering wheel or pedal when braking, your rotors may be warped or uneven.

3. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

A brake pedal that feels soft or sinks to the floor may signal air in the brake lines or low brake fluid.

4. Car Pulling to One Side

Uneven braking can be caused by worn brake pads, a stuck caliper, or an issue with the brake fluid distribution.

5. Warning Light on Dashboard

The brake warning light signals an issue with the braking system that requires immediate attention.

How Often Should You Get a Brake Inspection?

  • Every 10,000-15,000 miles for routine inspections.
  • At least once a year or during regular vehicle maintenance.
  • Immediately if you notice any signs of brake trouble.

Brake Maintenance Tips

  • Replace brake pads before they wear down completely to avoid rotor damage.
  • Check brake fluid levels and top off if necessary.
  • Have your braking system professionally inspected during routine oil changes.
  • Avoid aggressive braking to reduce excessive wear on the brake system.

Final Thoughts

Regular brake inspections and maintenance are essential for your safety and vehicle longevity. Addressing brake issues promptly can prevent dangerous driving conditions and expensive repairs.

If you notice any brake-related issues, visit our shop for a professional inspection and service today!

[email protected]Maintenance, Vehicle Maintenance

Spring Car Maintenance: Get Your Vehicle Ready for the Road Ahead

Get Your Car Summer-Ready: A Timeline for Smooth & Safe Driving

Summer is right around the corner, which means road trips, beach days, and plenty of time spent behind the wheel. But before the temperatures rise, it’s important to make sure your car is ready for the heat. The intense summer sun, high temperatures, and long drives can put extra stress on your vehicle—so a little preparation now can save you from breakdowns later.

At Fox & Fox, we’ve put together a summer prep timeline to keep your car running smoothly, efficiently, and safely all season long.

6–8 Weeks Before Summer: Start with the Basics

As we transition from spring to summer, now is the perfect time to tackle essential maintenance and check for any lingering winter wear.

✅ Get an Oil Change – Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool and run efficiently, especially in the summer heat.
✅ Inspect Your Battery – Hot temperatures can weaken your battery faster than cold weather. If your battery is over 3 years old, get it tested.
✅ Check Your Tires – Warmer temperatures cause air pressure to rise, so make sure your tires are properly inflated. Also, check for worn tread—balding tires are dangerous on hot pavement.
✅ Replace Wiper Blades – Summer storms can hit suddenly, and you’ll want wipers that keep your windshield clear.

🚗 Pro tip: If you’re planning a long road trip, schedule a pre-trip inspection to catch potential issues before you hit the road!

4–6 Weeks Before Summer: A/C & Cooling System Check

The last thing you want is to get stuck in traffic on a 90-degree day with no air conditioning. Before summer officially arrives, make sure your A/C and cooling system are working properly.

✅ Test Your A/C – If it’s blowing warm air, making strange noises, or has a weak airflow, it may need a refrigerant recharge or other repairs.
✅ Inspect Coolant Levels – Your cooling system prevents engine overheating, which is more common in summer. Low coolant could mean a leak or system issue.
✅ Check Radiator Hoses & Belts – Heat can weaken rubber components, leading to cracks and potential failure.

🌡 Warning Signs of Cooling System Trouble:
⚠ Overheating gauge rising above normal
⚠ Coolant leaks under your car
⚠ Burning or sweet smells from the engine

🔧 If you notice any of these signs, bring your car to Fox & Fox before summer gets any hotter!

2–4 Weeks Before Summer: Deep Clean & Protect Your Car

Summer means more sun exposure, and heat can damage your car’s exterior and interior. Now’s the time to clean and protect your vehicle before the harsh sun takes its toll.

✅ Wash & Wax Your Car – Waxing protects your paint from UV damage and makes it easier to clean off dirt and bugs.
✅ Detail the Interior – Remove salt, sand, and debris from carpets, vacuum seats, and clean your dashboard to prevent sun cracking.
✅ Check Your Headlights & Brake Lights – Make sure all lights are bright and functioning, especially before road trips.

🌞 Want extra protection? Consider window tinting or a windshield sunshade to keep your car’s interior cool.

1–2 Weeks Before Summer: Final Safety & Performance Check

You’re almost ready for summer road trips and weekend getaways! Now’s the time for a final check-up to make sure everything is in peak condition.

✅ Brake Inspection – Hot pavement + bad brakes = dangerous driving conditions. If your brakes feel soft or make noise, get them checked ASAP.
✅ Check & Refill All Fluids – Transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and washer fluid should be topped off and clean.
✅ Test Your Spare Tire & Emergency Kit – A flat tire on a road trip is the worst. Make sure your spare is properly inflated, and your emergency kit has essentials like a tire jack, jumper cables, flashlight, and first aid supplies.
✅ Check Your Fuel Efficiency – If you’ve noticed a drop in MPG, it could be time for a fuel system cleaning or tire pressure adjustment.

🚗 Going on a summer road trip? Make sure your alignment, suspension, and exhaust system are all in good shape for long highway drives.

Summer Kickoff: Drive with Confidence!

Now that your car is prepped for the heat, you can hit the road with confidence! Whether you’re commuting, vacationing, or just enjoying a Sunday drive, taking these preventative steps will keep your car running smoothly and efficiently all summer long.

🌡️ Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the ride! 🚗💨

📅 Book your summer maintenance check-up today!
📞 Call us at (260) 424-1630
🌐 Schedule online at www.foxandfoxfw.com
📍 Visit us at 512 Van Buren Street in downtown Fort Wayne

🔥 Don’t wait for the summer heat to cause car trouble—let us get your vehicle road-trip ready today! 🔥

[email protected]Maintenance

Easy Winter Car Care Tips to Keep You Safe on the Road

Easy Winter Car Care Tips to Keep You Safe on the Road

Winter can be tough on your car, but with a little preparation, you can ensure it runs smoothly and safely all season long. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can take a toll on your vehicle, so here are some easy winter car care tips to keep you on the road without a hitch.

1. Check Your Battery

Cold weather reduces your battery’s efficiency, making it harder for your car to start. Have your battery tested to ensure it has enough charge. If it’s more than three years old, consider replacing it to avoid a mid-winter breakdown.

2. Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure & Tread Depth

Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, which affects traction and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI. Also, ensure your tires have enough tread (at least 2/32 of an inch) to handle slippery roads. If you live in a snowy area, consider switching to winter tires for better grip.

3. Top Off Fluids

Winter driving demands proper fluid levels:

  • Antifreeze (coolant) should be at the right mix to prevent freezing.
  • Windshield washer fluid should be rated for freezing temperatures to prevent ice buildup on your windshield.
  • Oil should be winter-grade (check your owner’s manual for recommendations).

4. Keep Your Gas Tank at Least Half Full

A low gas tank increases the risk of condensation forming inside, which can lead to frozen fuel lines. Keeping your tank at least half full helps prevent this and ensures you have enough fuel in case of emergencies.

5. Check Your Wipers and Defroster

Good visibility is essential for winter driving. Replace worn-out wiper blades and ensure your defroster and heater work properly. Consider using winter-specific wiper blades for better performance in snow and ice.

6. Pack an Emergency Kit

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so having an emergency kit in your car is a smart move. Essentials include:

  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Jumper cables
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Blanket and warm clothing
  • Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
  • First aid kit
  • Sand or kitty litter for traction in case you get stuck

7. Wash Your Car Regularly

Road salt and slush can cause rust and damage your vehicle’s undercarriage. Rinse off salt buildup regularly, especially on the underside of your car, and apply a protective wax coating to prevent corrosion.

8. Warm Up Your Car the Right Way

While it’s tempting to let your car idle for a long time, modern vehicles only need about 30 seconds to warm up before driving. Excessive idling wastes fuel and isn’t great for your engine. Instead, drive gently for the first few minutes to let the car warm up naturally.

9. Test Your Lights

With shorter daylight hours and snowstorms reducing visibility, fully functional headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are crucial. Clean off any snow or ice covering your lights and replace burnt-out bulbs as needed.

10. Plan Ahead & Drive Cautiously

Winter roads can be unpredictable, so plan your trips in advance. Leave extra time to reach your destination, drive slower in icy conditions, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

By following these easy winter car care tips, you can protect your vehicle, improve safety, and make winter driving a lot less stressful. Stay safe and enjoy the season!

Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 🚗❄️

 

 

 

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You said:
create a blog that discusses driving in winter weather
ChatGPT said:

Here’s a blog post on winter weather driving:

Essential Tips for Driving Safely in Winter Weather

Winter brings beautiful snowy landscapes, but it also presents serious challenges for drivers. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and freezing temperatures can make even short trips risky. Whether you’re a seasoned winter driver or facing snow-covered roads for the first time, these essential tips will help keep you safe behind the wheel.

1. Prepare Your Car for Winter

Before winter hits, make sure your vehicle is ready to handle cold, icy conditions:

  • Check your tires – Ensure they have sufficient tread and proper inflation. Winter tires offer better traction on snow and ice.
  • Test your battery – Cold weather can weaken your battery, so have it checked to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
  • Top off fluids – Keep your antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and oil at recommended levels. Use winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing.
  • Inspect your wipers and defrosters – Visibility is crucial, so replace worn-out wiper blades and confirm your defrosters work properly.

2. Drive Smoothly and Slowly

Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to lose traction. Follow these driving techniques for better control:

  • Accelerate and brake gradually – Slamming the brakes can lead to skidding. Instead, apply gentle, steady pressure.
  • Increase your following distance – It takes longer to stop on icy roads, so leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
  • Take turns slowly – Sharp, fast turns can make you lose control. Reduce speed before turning.

3. Understand How to Handle Skidding

If your car starts to skid:

  • Don’t panic.
  • Steer in the direction you want to go. If your rear wheels slide left, steer left; if they slide right, steer right.
  • Avoid slamming the brakes. Instead, gently ease off the accelerator.
  • For ABS brakes, apply steady pressure. If your car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), press the brake pedal firmly while steering.

4. Know When to Use Chains or Snow Tires

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, snow chains or winter tires can make a big difference. Snow chains provide additional grip, especially on steep or unplowed roads. Check local laws and weather conditions to determine when they’re required.

5. Be Cautious on Bridges and Overpasses

These surfaces freeze faster than regular roads and can be deceptively slick. Approach them with caution and avoid sudden movements.

6. Watch for Black Ice

Black ice is nearly invisible and forms when temperatures drop quickly. Common spots for black ice include shaded areas, bridges, and intersections. If you suspect black ice, drive carefully and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.

7. Clear Snow and Ice Before Driving

Driving with snow-covered windows, mirrors, or lights reduces visibility and is unsafe. Before heading out:

  • Remove all snow from your windows, roof, hood, and trunk.
  • Use a scraper to clear ice from your windshield and mirrors.
  • Make sure your headlights and taillights are visible.

8. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

Winter driving can be unpredictable, so always be prepared. Pack an emergency kit with essentials:

  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Jumper cables
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Blanket and warm clothing
  • First aid kit
  • Sand or kitty litter for traction
  • Water and non-perishable snacks

9. Plan Ahead and Check the Weather

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and road conditions. If a storm is expected, consider delaying your trip or finding an alternate route. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freezing and ensure you have enough gas in case of delays.

10. Avoid Unnecessary Travel in Severe Conditions

Sometimes, the safest option is to stay off the road. If conditions are extreme, only drive if absolutely necessary. If you must travel, inform someone of your route and expected arrival time in case of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

Driving in winter weather requires patience, preparation, and caution. By following these tips, you can reduce risks and stay safe on snowy and icy roads. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking the family out for a fun adventure drive smart and stay safe.