By Benjamin Hunting / Originally Published March 24, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / What is an alternator? Simply put, it’s a part of your car’s electrical system that you never really have to think about until it starts to cause you grief. Alongside your vehicle’s battery, the alternator is the backbone of the charging system in ...

Read On

Okay, if you own a Porsche, odds are you can afford the several hundred dollar oil change at your dealership or from a local mechanic. But maybe, just maybe, you got your Porsche by knowing when and where you can save money… and doing an oil change yourself is a perfect way to save a couple ...

Read On

By Blair Lampe / Originally Published February 16, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / Brake fluid is an integral part of the braking system, but often overlooked unless there is a problem — in which case it could already be too late. Knowing when and how to check brake fluid can keep you safe. Manufacturers vary wildly ...

Read On

By Sarah Shelton / Originally Published March 18, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / If you’re hauling items on a roof rack or large loads in your pickup truck, tie-downs are a must. These hold your cargo tightly in place so it doesn’t shift when you’re on the road. But anchoring your gear is about more than ...

Read On

By Blair Lampe / Originally Published March 7, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / Car batteries provide a vehicle’s life force. We rely on them to get our cars started and keep them running, to power helpful onboard accessories and even to charge electronic devices. The average car battery life can be anywhere from three to ...

Read On

By Benjamin Hunting / Originally Published March 1, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / Understanding exhaust systems and how they fit into a car’s ecosystem actually isn’t too difficult. For one, your muffler will give you a very audible clue when it’s time to head to the shop — after all, if this part isn’t doing its ...

Read On

By Matthew C. Keegan / Originally Published February 24, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / In treacherous weather conditions, you probably want to stay home, but that’s not always possible, especially during the winter months. Sleet, ice and snow can make for a tough drive, but as long as you take it slow and pay attention to ...

Read On

Wax on. Wax off. Oh, Mr. Miyagi, you made it seem so easy. So why do some cars end up looking picture perfect, while others end up looking like my 3 year old smeared his donut’s icing all over the paint? Well, it’s all about the process… The first step to achieving a high quality wax job ...

Read On

By Matthew C. Keegan / Originally Published January 12, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / Clean battery terminals can keep your car from stalling at the most inopportune time. Knowing how to clean battery terminals and the connection points will free them of residue and keep your car running. Here’s how to clean battery terminals in six steps. ...

Read On

By Blair Lampe / Originally Published January 26, 2016 / National Automotive Parts Association / Losing traction in the snow is no one’s idea of a good time. Even in areas not known for abysmal snowstorms, winter can create icy and hazardous road conditions that drivers must be prepared to deal with. Adding tire chains for cars ...

Read On

Your tires affect your car’s ride, handling, braking, and overall safety. Tire care is one of the easiest things to keep up with, but also one of the most neglected components of vehicle safety. Everyone should get in the habit of taking just five minutes each month to look over their tires, including the spare. Today’s ...

Read On

By Matthew C. Keegan / Originally Published December 31, 2015 / National Automotive Parts Association / Diesel is a petroleum-based fuel, derived from the same crude oil as gasoline. When distilled, the lighter fuel becomes gasoline and the heavier fuel is made into diesel. Because diesel is denser than gasoline, it provides more energy, or specifically better fuel ...

Read On