Tires are one of the most essential parts of your vehicle. Tires connect your car to the road, and they play a major role in both safety and performance.
There are two main types of tires for hybrid and electric care: low rolling resistance tires and all-season tires.
Low Rolling Resistance Tires
Low resistance tires are a type of tire that is designed to reduce rolling resistance. Rolling resistance is the force required to keep a tire moving forward. It is affected by the weight of the tire, the air pressure in the tire, and the shape of the tread. Low resistance tires are typically made from softer materials with higher air pressure. In addition, low resistance tires usually have a more rounded tread that helps to reduce drag. As a result, low resistance tires can help to improve fuel economy and decrease emissions.
Benefits
- Improved fuel economy
- Quieter ride
- Better grip in wet weather conditions
All-Season Tires
In many areas, winter can make driving conditions treacherous. Even in areas that don’t see a lot of snow, cold temperatures can make roads icy and dangerous. As a result, many drivers choose to switch to all-season tires when the winter months roll around. All-season tires are designed to provide improved traction in both wet and dry conditions, as well as in cold weather. In addition, all-season tires typically have a higher speed rating than winter tires, which means they can handle the increased speeds typical of highway driving. Perhaps most importantly, all-season tires can help improve fuel economy – tires can help you save money at the pump.
Benefits
- Good traction in a variety of conditions
- It can be used year-round
- Less expensive than low rolling resistance tires
Which Type Is Best for You?
When it comes to hybrid and electric cars, you really can’t go wrong with either type of tire. However, low rolling resistance tires are the best choice if you’re looking for the best fuel economy possible.
It also depends on your driving habits and needs. Low rolling resistance tires may be an excellent option if you do most of your driving in the city. They will help you save money on gas and improve your vehicle’s performance.
Are you looking for a reliable and trustworthy tire center? Look no further than Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ! We offer various tire services to meet your needs, from standard repairs and replacements to custom wheel alignments and more. Our team is qualified and experienced tire services, so you can rest assured that your car is in good hands. Plus, we always strive to provide friendly and informative customer service, so you can feel confident about the work we’re doing. Contact us today to schedule your service!
What’s better than listening to your favorite melodies on a beautiful day while driving in your car? How about doing so on a gorgeous touchscreen stereo?! There are all sorts of different stereos on the market these days, and it can be formidable to figure out which one is right for you.
That’s where Acura of Tempe comes in! This post will outline some of the best car touch screen stereos available right now. So. whether you’re in the market for something high-end or just looking for an essential upgrade, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more!
- Kenwood DDX25BT
Alright, let’s start with something high-end. The Kenwood DDX25BT Touch Screen Car Stereo is perfect for anyone who wants the best of the best. This stereo has a sleek touch screen interface, Bluetooth capabilities for hands-free calling and music streaming, and even a DVD player. Plus, the sound quality is unbeatable. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line car stereo, the Kenwood DDX25BT is worth considering.
- Pioneer AVH-2440NEX
Like the Kenwood stereo, it has a sleek touch screen interface, Bluetooth capabilities, and a DVD player. However, one of the soundest features of this stereo is its built-in Apple CarPlay. This allows you to use all your favorite Apple apps on the stereo display. Pioneer is known for making high-quality car audio products, so you can rest assured that the AVH-2440NEX will deliver excellent sound quality.
- JVC KW-M745DBT
The JVC is another great option to consider. It has a 6.8-inch display, Bluetooth capabilities, HD Radio, and built-in Navigation. It also has a cool feature called “Dual USB,” which allows you to connect 2 USB devices simultaneously. This could be really convenient if you want to charge your phone and listen to music from a USB thumb drive at the same time.
- ATOTO A6
This Car Stereo is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly car stereo. It has a 6.2-inch display, Bluetooth capabilities, and built-in Navigation. It also has a rearview camera input, which is a convenient feature to have.
- Sony XAV-AX100
It is another superb option to consider. It has a 6.4-inch display, Bluetooth capabilities, and built-in Navigation. It also has a cool feature called “Sound Positioning,” which analyzes the acoustics of your car and adjusts the sound accordingly. This could be genuinely handy if you have a particularly noisy car.
Ending Note
Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new car with all the bells and whistles or are just looking to upgrade your current ride, Acura of Tempe has got you covered. Our team of experts in Tempe, AZ, will work with you to find the perfect touchscreen stereo system that meets your needs and budget. So, what are you waiting for?
Come see us today, and let us help get your hands on the best car touch screen stereos around!
4 Auto Mods That Bump-Up Your Car’s Value
Like most people, you probably consider your car as a necessary evil. It gets you from point A to point B, and that’s about it. But what if we tell you that your car could be so much more? With a few simple mods, you could increase your car’s value by hundreds or even thousands of dollars? Interested? Then read on!
In this post, Acura of Tempe will look at some of the most popular mods to increase your car’s value. We’ll also discuss how to install them so that you can get the most bang for your buck. So, what are you waiting for? Start modding!
Car Upgrades for Value Enhancement
So, do you want to increase the value of your car? Who doesn’t? Luckily, there are several ways to do this, and most of them don’t require a lot of money or expertise. In fact, the vast majority of car modifications that increase value are relatively simple and can be carried out by the average mechanic.
The first step is to identify which mods will significantly impact your car’s value. This varies from vehicle to vehicle, so it’s essential to do your research. However, there are a few modifications that are almost universally beneficial. Let’s skim through them:
- Appearance Mods
A new paint job, a set of shiny chrome wheels, or a custom body kit can add value to your car. Often, these mods are relatively cheap and easy to install, but they can make a big difference in terms of looks.
- Performance Mods
Upgrading your engine, adding a turbocharger, or installing a new exhaust system can make your car faster and more powerful. This can be appealing to potential buyers and may increase the car’s resale value.
- Safety Mods
Installing features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, or stability control systems can make your car safer and more desirable to buyers. These features may not be flashy, but they could save you money in the long run.
- Aesthetic Mods
Adding new body kits, spoilers, or headlights can give your car a new look and make it stand out from the competition. These mods can be expensive, but they can add a lot of value to your car.
Beware Of the Illegal Modifications!
When it comes to auto mods, a few ones can decrease your car’s value as well! Plus, you’ll have to make sure that the modifications you’re going for are compliant with the state law.
Making illegal modifications to your car can result in decreased value and getting pulled over and ticketed by the police. It is illegal to make certain modifications, but it’s also against the law to drive with them on public roads. So, before you start making any mods to your car, make sure that you’re familiar with the state laws.
Let Acura of Tempe Help You Out!
If you’re looking to bump the value of your car, look no further than our team of auto mod experts at Acura of Tempe, serving in Tempe, AZ. We can help you find and install the perfect mods to give your car that extra edge – whether it’s for show or increased performance.
Browse our parts inventory online and contact us today to get started!
Basic Guide to Making Your Own Car Cleaning Kit
If you’re like most people, you generally don’t think about car cleaning until it’s absolutely necessary. And then suddenly, you’re faced with the daunting task of trying to figure out what supplies to use and how to tackle all the dirt, dust, and grime. Well, never fear – we’re here to help! In this post, car cleaning experts from Acura of Tempe will show you how to quickly make your own car cleaning kit using a few simple items. So read on for all the details. You’ll be glad you did!
1 – Car Wash Soap
This is probably the most essential product in your car cleaning kit. Look for a soap that’s specifically designed for cars, and make sure to read the instructions carefully so you know how to use it correctly.
2 – Sponges and Towels
You’ll need plenty of these to wash your car correctly. Choose soft, absorbent materials that won’t scratch the paint.
3 – Glass Cleaner
This is a must-have for keeping your windshield and windows clean and streak-free. Glass cleaner for cars can be found at most stores.
4 – Tire cleaner and polish
Keeping your tires clean not only makes your car look better but also helps to extend its life. Look for a tire cleaner that’s safe for the type of tires you have.
5 – Car Interior Polish
This helps to keep the inside of your car looking clean and new. But car polish comes in numerous formulas, so be sure to pick one that’s right for your car’s interior.
6 – Car Wax
A good coat of wax not only makes your car look great but also protects the paint from dirt and grime. But there are many different kinds of automobile waxes on the market, so be sure to pick the right one for your car’s finish.
7 – Car Vacuum Cleaner
This one is a no-brainer. An efficient and powerful car vacuum cleaner is a must for keeping your car clean. There are many portable vacuum cleaners on the market specifically designed for cars.
8 – Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
This is another must-have for keeping your car’s interior clean. Be sure to choose a formula that’s safe for your car’s upholstery and carpets.
9 – Microfiber Towels
These are excellent for cleaning all kinds of surfaces in your car. They’re also great for applying and removing waxes and polishes.
10 – Interior Cleaner
For the final touch, you’ll want to clean the inside of your car as well. Look for an all-purpose cleaner that’s safe for vinyl, plastic, and leather.
When it comes to cleaning your vehicle, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on your vehicle and the type of dirt and debris that accumulates, you may need many different products.
Ending Note
Now that you know how to make your own car cleaning kit, it’s time to get started. All you need is a few easy-to-grab items and some elbow grease (which we all know we can find plenty of). By following these simple steps plus using the products recommended, you can keep your car looking shiny and new – no professional service required.
If you don’t want to get your hands dirty – just schedule a service appointment with Acura of Tempe serving Tempe, AZ, today, and let us help you take care of your car the right way!
Typically, when your car’s electrical accessories start to misbehave, you think it is the car battery. And then a precursory check reveals the battery is fine, but you spot some solder splashed about in the engine bay and realize there is a short circuit.
At Acura of Tempe, we’ve seen one short; we’ve seen it all!
What Is a Short Circuit?
An electrical short circuit occurs when the current is not contained in its intended loop & gets shunted to a shorter path to ground or power. This can happen because of intersecting frayed wires that offer shorter paths for flow. Still, since these short paths offer varying resistances, there may be heat dissipation & a possibility of electrical fires.
Types Of Short Circuits:
Grounded:
If there is a frayed wire touching the car’s body, that creates a path for the charge drain to the ground. The fuses are in place to arrest such shorts at high amperage and show up as warning lights for electrical faults.
Power:
When too many wires in the engine bay are cluttered or bound together without checking whether they are frayed, these wires might find alternate paths to flow. As a result, your car’s electricals act out & don’t function in tandem with your control. These kinds of shorts can trigger electrical fires.
Diagnosing A Short
Keep your eyes on the dashboard light from time to time. If there is an electrical fault in your car, the warning will light up. If you want to DIY, diagnose the source of the short.
You need the following:
- An automotive diagnostic (ATD) tool for circuit testing.
- Layman’s pliers for pulling out fuses.
- Car owner’s manual.
- Insulation gloves.
The Procedure:
- Wear your insulation gloves and remove the negative battery terminal connector. Connect the clipped end of the ATD tool.
- Touch the pointy end of the ATD tool to the battery’s positive terminal. If the tester lights up, that indicates an electrical short.
- Locate the fuse box. Start by pulling fuses one by one using the layman’s pliers, putting them back to avoid a mix-up.
- If you pull a fuse and the tester light goes out, this is where the electrical short lies.
- If you have had any aftermarket accessories installed, you can check them first to narrow down the search. There is a possibility the fuse is blown if a particular component is not functioning.
- Get the fuse replaced with the correct amperage to restore the component function. However, if the short is power-related, you better get to the auto technician.
Suppose you have successfully diagnosed & replaced a blown fuse; good for you! But if the circuits are a tangled mess with power short, you best be on your way to your trusted auto shop & dealership, Acura of Tempe. Serving Tempe, AZ, we deal in brand new Acura, used, certified, & courtesy cars with fantastic deals & bad-credit financing, in case you decide on a trade-in from an electrically compromised car.
Meanwhile, schedule an electrical service at the hands of our ASE-certified auto technicians today!
A few of you must have looked into your car’s manual to find the recommended oil grade, but once something seemed too complicated, you would give up and stick with using whatever was most accessible and cheapest (most likely the standard engine oil grade found in most regional laws) like everyone else around you!
However, if you do some research, you will find all sorts of engine oil grades that can be used other than just “regular” or “premium,” such as 0W-20 (which is classified as a winter grade) and how these different grades could make an engine last longer.
This blog post by Acura of Tempe will start by taking a look at a few internationally used engine grades:
0W-20
When you start the engine, this oil is somewhat thinner. When the motor is cold, 0W-20 has a viscosity of 0. When the engine reaches operating temperature, the density of the oil rises to 20.
0W-30
This is the same principle in action for 0W-30 engine oil. The viscosity is 30 when warm and 0 when cold, making it slightly thicker than 0W-20.
0W-40
The oil is designed to function as a 0 weight oil at startup and a 40-weight oil when the engine reaches its average operating temperature.
5W-30
The most widely available and most frequently used engine oil is 5W-30. The majority of automobile manufacturers recommend this.
5W-40
The synthetic 5W-40 is full synthetic engine oil that works like a 5 weight oil in the cold and 40 weight oil once the engine reaches average operating temperature.
10W-40
10W-40 engine oil is suitable for vehicles with 3.0-liter V6 engines and Triton diesel. It has a 10 weight performance in cold starting temperatures, whereas it offers a 40 weight performance at an average operating temperature of the engine.
15W-40
This oil works well at all temperatures and ensures that the engine functions smoothly regardless of the weather conditions. 15W-40 offers better performance than 5W-30 when there’s a rapid temperature increase during engine startup.
20W-50
You need 20 weight oil for some older vehicles with an upright V8 motor block or a flat block where the filler hole is on the side closer to one bank instead of between both banks. The oil must easily flow down from within the upper part of the cylinder block and have sufficient viscosity to provide the necessary engine protection.
10W-30
If your car owner’s manual specifies this grade, it should be OK for you. If you’re unsure about it and think that 5W-30 might also do a great job, then there is no harm in choosing the latter.
If all of this seems daunting, Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ, is here to help you! We have a certified team that’s experienced in oil change and replacement, so schedule a service now!
The 3 Main Types of Car Transmission Explained
If you’re a car lover, or even just someone who needs to get around town, you’ve probably heard of different types of car transmission. But what do they all mean? And which one is right for you?
In this post, car experts from Acura of Tempe will break down the three main types of transmissions: automatic, manual, and CVT. We’ll generally skim through the pros and cons of each type, so you can choose the one that’s best for your needs.
So, buckle up, and let’s get started!
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Manual Transmission
Since a manual car is one that you have to shift gears to change the speed of your car, it’s clear this type of transmission requires more driver involvement. The best thing about having a manual transmission is that you get to control the car’s speed with your own two hands. In this way, manual cars are great for constantly-changing driving conditions or if you need to make a sudden stop.
On the contrary, manual transmissions can be tough to use in heavy traffic, and parking can be a nightmare! Also, failure of a few gears could mean that your car won’t move at all–and that’s definitely not safe.
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Automatic Transmission
The automatic transmission is among the most popular car transmissions. Automatic Transmissions use computerized electronic sensors and hydraulics systems to shift gears smoothly, and at the right time, so you don’t have to worry about it. The best part about an automatic car transmission? You don’t have to do anything! Your car will automatically shift from low gear for getting off the line quickly or high gear for cruising on the freeway.
Although the biggest drawback of an automatic car transmission is that it can’t be manually shifted like a manual transmission. Plus, automatic car transmissions are not as fuel-efficient as manual or semi-automatic cars. Because they use energy, converting their power from gasoline to mechanical energy when shifting gears.
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CVT Transmission
The 3rd one on our list is the CVT transmission (continuously variable transmission). Typically found on hybrids, the CVT offers a smooth ride thanks to its ability to adjust automatically between gears, speeding up and slowing down the car depending on your speed and acceleration preferences.
So, what’s good about this type of car transmission? What’s bad? One major pro of this type of transmission is that it conserves gas. So, suppose you’re someone who cares about their carbon footprint or is just conscious about saving money at the pump. In that case, this could be an excellent choice for you! the drawback of CVT is that it has a reputation for being loud when in use. It can also cause vibrations which are annoying at times.
The Gist
Well, now you know that there are three main types of car transmissions, and each one has its own pros and cons. Read over the information we’ve provided to know which type you have in your vehicle.
If you need help deciding what to do next with your transmission or if you’re looking for a transmission expert in Tempe, AZ, give our team a call at Acura of Tempe for more details on how we can best serve your needs.
Want to schedule a service or repair online? Click here!
6 Undeniable Signs Your Car Battery is Failing
Your car battery is one of the most critical components of your vehicle. It provides the power that your car needs to start up, and it also helps run all of the electronics while you’re driving.
If your battery isn’t in good condition, it can leave you stranded on the side of the road. Acura of Tempe has compiled six undeniable signs that your car battery is failing and what you can do about it!
1. Battery Draining Fast
The most obvious indicator that your battery is failing is when it doesn’t hold a charge as well as it used to. If you notice that your car battery seems to die more quickly than before, it might be time for a replacement.
2. Engine Cranking Slow
Another sign that your battery might be failing is if your vehicle is difficult to start. If you have to crank the engine for a long time before it finally turns over, that could be a sign that your battery is on its way out.
3. Battery Indicator Flashing or Off
If your car’s charging system is working correctly, you should see a green light on your dashboard when the key is “on.” If the light is off or flashing, that could signify that your battery is having problems.
4. Corrosion Around Battery Terminals
Another sign of a failing battery is corrosion around the terminals. If you see any white or green build-up around the posts, that’s a surefire indicator to replace your battery.
5. Engine Making Noise
A telltale sign that your car’s charging system has issues is strange noises coming from under the hood when you crank it.
6. Requiring Jump Start
You might have to use jumper cables more often if your battery is on its last legs. If your car won’t start at all with jumper cables and the clock in your vehicle has reset or gone haywire — that’s another sign that it might be time for a new battery.
7. Car Running Slow
You might notice your car is running a lot more slowly. It often happens if several things run simultaneously like the radio and air conditioner. If this problem has never happened before, that could mean it’s time to replace your battery!
The Bottom Line
The good news is that you can locate these symptoms and take care of a failing battery before it leaves you stranded. If you’re experiencing any signs that your car battery is failing, it’s essential to take action immediately. One option is to replace the battery yourself; however, we recommend taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic if you’re not comfortable with doing this.
At Acura of Tempe, we want to help you keep your car running in top condition – so be sure to schedule your service today! We offer competitive prices and excellent service in Tempe, AZ, so you can rest assured that your car is in good hands!
6 Unmistakable Signs Your Car Battery is Failing
Your car battery is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of your vehicle. It’s responsible for providing power to all the electrical components, and it also helps start your car’s engine.
So, if you think your battery might be failing, it’s important to know the signs. In this blog post, we will discuss unmistakable signs that your car battery is on its way out so that you can get it replaced before it dies.
Your Battery is Old (3 to 5 Years)
The average car battery lasts around 3 to 5 years. If your battery is older than this, likely, it won’t hold a charge like it used to. This can cause problems, including your car not starting when you turn the key.
If your battery is three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested to see if it still holds a charge for long enough. You can take your car battery in for testing at most auto parts stores. If your battery is failing, you may need to replace it.
The Battery Smells Like Rotten Eggs
If your battery starts to smell like rotten eggs, it’s a sign that it’s failing. This smell is caused by sulfuric acid, a common component of car batteries. If you notice this smell, take your car in for testing right away.
The smell of rotten eggs can also signify that you have a leak in your battery. If the battery has a leak, replace it immediately.
Battery Terminals are Corroded
Corroded terminals are a sign that your battery is failing. Corrosion can cause problems with electrical connections, and it can also be dangerous. If you see corrosion on your terminals, let a dealership test it for you.
If you try to clean corrosion from a battery terminal, you could do more damage. Leave this job to a professional. If your battery is four years old and the terminals are corroded, it’s time for a new battery.
Car Doesn’t Start in Cold Weather.
If your car has trouble starting in cold weather, it could signify that your battery is weak. Batteries tend to lose power in colder temperatures, so you may need to give your car a little extra help in the winter. It’s best to get the battery charged or replaced to avoid getting stranded.
Dim Headlights.
If your headlights are dim, it could signify that your battery isn’t holding a charge well. This is often caused by terminal corrosion on the battery. If you’re not sure if this is the problem, have a mechanic take a look.
Engine Turnover is Slow.
If your engine turnover is slow, it could signify that the battery is weak. When you start the car, the starter will have to work harder than normal to get the engine going. If this happens, it’s best to replace or charge the battery as soon as possible.
If you notice even one of these signs, it’s time to get your car battery checked. Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ, is the place for all your automotive needs, and our certified car technicians will be happy to test your car battery or replace it if necessary.
Please schedule an appointment with our service center today!
Online Car Purchasing – It Makes Life Easy!
In today’s world, it’s all about convenience. We want to do things quickly without putting in too much effort. That’s why online car purchasing is becoming more and more popular. It’s a trend that is making life easy for people worldwide. This blog post will discuss the benefits of buying a car online and why more people are choosing this option.
How Does it Work?
The process of purchasing a vehicle online is simple and easy. You can find the make and model you are looking for on any number of websites. Once you have found the car, you will need to provide personal information, such as your name and contact information. You will also have to share payment information. The website will then take care of the rest, including arranging for delivery of the car to your home.
Better Deals
One of the benefits of buying a car online is that you can often find better deals than you would at a traditional dealership. In addition, you don’t have to worry about haggling with a salesperson over price.
Online Car Purchasing Saves Time
Another benefit of buying a car online is that it saves you time. You don’t have to go to many dealerships looking for the perfect vehicle. You can find what you are looking for on one website and make your purchase.
Online car purchasing is becoming more popular each day. More people now are realizing the benefits of this trend. If you are looking for an easy and convenient way to purchase a car, online car purchasing is the way to go.
You Can Easily Compare Prices
When purchasing a car online, you can easily compare prices. This is because all the information about the vehicles is listed on the website. You don’t have to call different dealerships and ask for quotes. This saves you time, too, because you don’t have to drive to dealerships to get quotes.
Are There Any Downsides?
There are a few downsides to online car purchasing.
You Can’t Test Drive
The first downside is that you can’t test drive the car before purchasing it. This can be a significant issue if you’re unsure about the vehicle. You might end up buying a vehicle that you don’t like or doesn’t suit your needs. However, most online dealers have a return policy if you change your mind after purchasing the car.
You Can’t Check the Interior and Exterior
Another downside is that you can’t check the interior and exterior of the car before you purchase it. You might not be able to tell if there are any problems with the car just by looking at pictures. However, most dealers are honest, and they will genuinely provide complete information, but there is still that element of risk.
If you want to shop online but still personally check the car and test drive it, we invite you to check out our inventory of used cars online. Compare our used cars for sale and see which one suits your needs. Then visit us at Acura of Tempe, serving Tempe, AZ, and take it for a spin. We strive to make buying a used car as easy and stress-free as possible.
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