Preferred Auto Parts

To change a vehicle's spark plugs, keep these tips in mind: change the plugs when the engine is completely cooled down, check the vehicle manual to find the location of the plugs, and be sure each plug is placed in the exact same position as the old plug.

When replacing your battery, it's important you choose a part that fits the specifications of your car. This refers not only to the physical dimensions of the battery but the Cold Cranking Amps (the battery's ability to start an engine in cold temperatures).

Did you know that the condition of a spark plug can provide clues on the health of your engine? When replacing old spark plugs, take a moment to examine the plugs. Oil on the plugs can indicate worn piston rings or other serious engine problems.

Did you know that if you overfill your car's transmission fluid that the engine and transmission will be severely affected and damaged? If you are replacing your own transmission fluid, be sure to add the correct amount.

When buying parts like batteries or alternators, you will need to bring the old part for trade, or pay a core charge, a fee applied by the retailer that - like the deposit on bottle - encourages you to return the part for recycling.

If you need to replace the spark plug wires in your vehicle, keep these tips in mind: double check with the vehicle manufacture for recommendations, check for the lengths of wire needed, use new wires each time and be sure to buy the right number of wires.

Check your tires regularly for damage to the sidewalls, nails and other objects that may have penetrated the tire, and check the tread depth. When the remaining tread falls below 3/16" it is time to prepare for a new set of tires.

Some specialty parts may be hard to find. Ask the customer service representative to check the New Old Stock (NOS) if you cannot find what you want right away. Older, out-of-production parts may be stored there.

If you have an older car, chances are it runs on a carburetor. This component mixes a certain amount of gasoline with air, which keeps the engine running properly. When the carburetor is working, it creates the perfect balance of fuel and air.

It's important to stay on top of even minor leaks in your car's exhaust system and replace any worn parts right away. Not only can this be dangerous, but it can cut into your fuel economy and the engine's performance as well.

With disc brakes, the car is slowed by brake pads squeezing against a flat metal disk that's attached to the wheel. With drum brakes, curved brake shoes push outward against a metal drum that's attached to the wheel.

Your car's engine will have one or more accessory drive belts, depending on its make and model. These belts are responsible for operating your car's fans, alternator, air conditioner, water pump, power steering pump, and smog pump.

If an automatic vehicle lock fails to work properly, it may be the battery on the auto key lock remote on your keychain. If the key lock remote is a few years old, replace the battery first to ensure that this is not the cause of the lock failure.