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Written on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 by Permalink |
Tires in 2020: How Times Have Changed Over the Last 35 Years
Tires have been consistently improving in quality and functionality since cars have been on the road. As one of the oldest and most trusted tire & auto repair shops in Massachusetts, we have seen tires get better over the years. Continue reading our industry blog highlighting how t...
Written on Saturday, February 15, 2020 by Permalink |
Common Power Steering Problems
Power steering, the system that helps a driver turn the steering wheel with less effort, revolutionized driving, especially for larger vehicles. However, as with just about everything on a car, power steering can sometimes present a few issues if something goes wrong with the system. And while power...
Written on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 by Permalink |
5 Engine Noises that Require Immediate Attention
If you’ve noticed that your car is suddenly making a strange noise, you’re probably correct in worrying. Cars aren’t supposed to make strange noises, and if you notice a sudden change in your engine noise, chances are, there’s something wrong. These noises can range from popping, stuttering, whizzing, or rattling. If you notice any of these sounds, take it over to your local Hogan Tire & Auto as soon as possible.
Written on Friday, January 24, 2020 by Permalink |
Tips on Improving Fuel Efficiency This Winter
If you feel like you’re spending more time at the gas station this winter than you do during summer, you’re not overthinking it! Because cold air is denser than warm air, the fuel efficiency of your car decreases in wintertime. When temperatures plummet to 20 degrees and below, you&rsquo...
Written on Sunday, January 12, 2020 by Permalink |
Why Your Car Might Be Leaking Oil
It can be all too easy to look the other way when a small puddle forms under your car. You think, “It must have already been there. Why would my car be leaking?” However, oil leaks are not something that should be taken lightly. If left unattended, it can cause bigger probl...
Written on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 by Permalink |
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Basics
If you were to ask the average driver about their current Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), they may not know what you’re talking about. However, since 2008, all vehicles in the United States are now equipped with TPMS. These systems are now regarded as standard safety equipment for cars...
Written on Friday, November 15, 2019 by Permalink |
Vehicle Checklist Before Winter Arrives
Winter can be tough on your vehicle. Complete this checklist by the first snowfall to keep your car performing at its best during the upcoming winter season!CoolantMake sure you have switched to coolant that is appropriate for winter conditions. You’ll want a coolant that shrinks when frozen, ...
Written on Wednesday, October 30, 2019 by Permalink |
Do you need to warm up your car before driving during colder months?
Do you warm up your car on cold days? Whether it was a trusted family member’s advice or you feel it really does drive better – it is actually not necessary. Needing to warm up your car before you drive it during cold weather is a myth – this article explains why. Operating...
Written on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 by Permalink |
Quick Tips for Vehicle Maintenance this Fall!
Every season of the year provides vehicle owners a new set of issues and maintenance items. Fall is no different. As New England enters the fall months, Hogan Tire and Auto wanted to provide our online readers a quick blog regarding some best practices you can implement while maintaining your car or...
Written on Sunday, September 15, 2019 by Permalink |
Home Car Wash? Don’t make these mistakes!
Summer is the perfect time for you to wash your car at home. With the beautiful weather, it is a practical way to spend some time while not only accomplishing something but also cooling off. While the act of washing a car isn’t difficult, with so many products, there are things you want to avo...
Written on Saturday, July 27, 2019 by Permalink |
Summer Car Maintenance Checklist
With the summer months upon us, many will find ourselves taking road trips to explore the New England area. With the additional mileage you’ll be putting on your vehicle, it’s a smart idea to run through a quick checklist to ensure you won’t find yourself on the side road broken do...
Written on Saturday, July 20, 2019 by Permalink |
Why Your Brakes Might be Squeaking
A lot of drivers feel bothered when their brakes start squeaking. After all, they depend on their brakes to keep them safe. An unusual sound can be a sign that something is wrong, leading most drivers to respond immediately. Sometimes, there are completely normal reasons why brakes squeak. Other tim...
Written on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 by Permalink |
When to Charge vs. Replace Your Battery
It’s important to know the difference between a battery that’s out of commission and a battery that just needs a little more juice. You don’t want to rely on charging your battery when it really needs to be replaced. An unreliable car battery can leave you stranded far from home. Likewise, you would...
Written on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 by Permalink |
When to change your vehicles tires
Changing your vehicle's tires is a necessary part of being a responsible car owner. At times, it can be overlooked if it feels as though the vehicle is performing like normal. The truth is, if your tires need to be replaced, they will end up failing you at the worst time. Tires with minimal tread ca...
Written on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 by Permalink |
AC Maintenance this spring
As New England heads into the warmer months of the year, ensuring your vehicles air conditioner r is properly working is key to enjoying your time driving. When a vehicle's air conditioner is broken, it can make commuting uncomfortable to the point where you may avoid driving altogether. We wanted t...
Written on Thursday, May 2, 2019 by Permalink |
Potential Damage after Hitting a curb
Many drivers have had the unfortunate experience of rolling up on a curb. Just reading the last sentence can invoke images of the face a driver makes when hearing rim touch a curb when parking. At times, this can be a purely cosmetic issue but at times it can be the source of other issues with your ...
Written on Thursday, April 4, 2019 by Permalink |
Battery Maintenance after Winter months
If your day to day life requires a dependable vehicle to get you where you need to go, it is critical to have a quality car battery. As a one-stop shop for all your tire and auto service needs, we at Hogan Tire wanted to write a blog about the best way to maintain your batteries health. Batteries wo...
Written on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 by Permalink |
Scenic Drives for Spring in Massachusetts
Spring is naturally a great time to fuel up the car, take a significant other, family or friends and take a drive. After a long winter, there is nothing better than having the windows down on that first 65-degree sunny day and enjoying Massachusetts beauty. We wanted to write a blog highlighting som...
Written on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 by Permalink |
Road Salts Effect on your Car
New England Winters make commuting and driving in snowy conditions difficult. Thankfully, since we deal with snow so often, there are solutions towns and cities use to help improve driving conditions when there is snow on the ground. The application of road salt or sodium chloride to roads helps melt ice through a chemical reaction. Road Salt has been used since the 1940s with New Hampshire being the first state to begin using the application before it took off nationwide to other wintery states. Road salt, however, can harm your vehicle's exterior. Here at Hogan Tire & Auto, we wanted to write a quick blog regarding Road Salt and how to minimize its effect on your vehicle's exterior!
Written on Thursday, February 21, 2019 by Permalink |
Should I be Idling my car before work?
With winter weather amongst us, it is common for New-England residents to idle their vehicles prior to heading to work or school. While idling prior to putting one’s car into drive has some benefits, we have heard a lot of misinformation regarding the practice. We wanted to create a blog on the pros...
Written on Thursday, January 24, 2019 by Permalink |
Understanding the Importance of Tie Rods!
Being able to self-diagnose potential car issues is something all drivers should be able to do on some level. We see a lot of customers come into the shop regarding worn tie rods. We wanted to create a blog highlighting the importance of tie rods, how to tell if they need to be replaced and to encou...
Written on Friday, October 19, 2018 by Permalink |
How To Buy The Right Tires For Your Vehicle
While buying new tires might not be the most exciting purchase to make, it is an essential one. Tires don’t last forever and the longer you wait to replace them, the less safe your vehicle becomes. Driving on tires with little to no tread left not only puts you and your passengers in jeopardy, but also decreases the overall performance of your car.
If you’ve noticed any signs of needing new tires, then it’s time to start shopping. Not all tires work for all vehicles, so it’s important to buy the right tires for your car. Below is a quick how to guide to purchasing the tire that’s the perfect fit for your car.
Examples: P205/55R16 or LT265/75R16
a. P = Passenger carb. LT = Light Truckc. The 3 digit number after the letter/s indicate the tire’s width in millimeters.d. The 2 digit number after this is the tire’s height to width ratio.e. R = Radial constructionf. The 2 digit number after the R is the wheel’s diameter.g. M+S or M/S stands for mud and snow. Many all season tires carry this designation.
Need help choosing the best set of tires for your vehicle? Hogan Tire & Auto is here to help you every step of the way, from shopping for tires to tire installation and tire maintenance. Contact us online to schedule an appointment!
Written on Friday, September 7, 2018 by Permalink |
What is Auto Start-Stop Technology & Does it Damage Your Engine?
Vehicle technology has come a long way since Henry Ford’s days -- and all of these improvements are for the better. We’ve added necessary safety features, more comfortable interiors, powerful engines, and computers to automate features such as speed control. These days, with many local and state gov...
Written on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 by Permalink |
Can You Drive On A Patched Tire?
There’s nothing worse than running over some glass on the road or a rogue nail with your tires. Although tires are designed to withstand quite a bit of environmental stressors out there on the road, a sharp object in the right place can leave you with a flat. However, that doesn’t always mean you need to buy a brand new tire. In fact, in many cases, flats can be repaired with the help of professional tire repair services from a trained technician.
Written on Monday, July 30, 2018 by Permalink |
How To Determine If Your Clutch Needs To Be Replaced
Summertime and the livin’ is easy -- especially when you have a sports car or vehicle with a manual transmission. There’s just something about sliding into 5th and cruising down some country roads. Unfortunately, the reality of it is that throughout the greater Boston area there are congestion points, stop lights, stop signs and the dreaded “New England Construction Season” that all cause a lot of stop and go.Factors That Cause Your Clutch To Wear OutAlthough constant stop-starting can cause clutch problems, it isn’t the only factor that causes one’s clutch to wear down. Other contributing factors include the type of car, the quality of the car, how well you maintain the car, and your driving habits. For example, if you tend to “ride the clutch” quite often, this can significantly shorten the lifespan of this part of your vehicle -- as can stop-start city driving from constantly shifting between low gears. At the end of the day, a clutch will last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.Signs Your Clutch Is GoingIt’s important to get familiar with the normal sounds and behavior of your car so that if something seems off you can get it into our auto shop and tire service center right away for an accurate diagnosis. Clutch systems are delicate enough that you should be able to determine if there’s an issue with this part of your car. Here are a few tell tale signs:Having trouble shifting gears (and we don’t mean going from 1st to 2nd on a 7% incline)The clutch is slipping which causes a temporary decrease in accelerationPoor acceleration even though you can rev the engineSticky, spongy, loose, or vibrating clutch pedal when pressedA squeaking or grumbling sound can be heard when pressing the clutchWhere & Why You Should Replace Your ClutchAs with most parts of your vehicle, the clutch system operates using friction. After awhile, the constant use of the clutch and the friction created will cause it to wear down (causing that slipping feeling when shifting). Holding off on replacing a clutch can cause it to fail entirely, which means your engine will not be able to power the wheels or the rest of the car.If you notice any of the above signs that your clutch is going, we recommend scheduling auto service at Hogan Tire & Auto for a clutch check or clutch adjustment. During this appointment, our professional auto technicians will diagnose whether or not the clutch needs to be replaced or if it just needs to be adjusted. Schedule an appointment online and let us help get you back on those wide open backcountry roads!
Written on Thursday, July 19, 2018 by Permalink |
7 Tell-Tale Signs Your Car Needs an Oil Change
As car owners, we all know that in order to ensure our cars are working properly we must do some routine maintenance work, such as get an oil change. However, busy lives can often get in the way and all the sudden you are 1,000+ miles overdue.Missing or delaying oil changes can end up stunting the lifespan of your car, so it’s important to stay on top of these and head to your nearest Hogan Tire & Auto location. Below are a few warning signs you may notice that should prompt you to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Written on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 by Permalink |
Common Reasons Why Your Car Is Overheating
Summer is in full swing here in Massachusetts and the weather is steadily climbing. While our bodies -- for the most part -- do a good job with regulating our core temperature, our cars are often prone to overheating. When your engine overheats, this means something is preventing the absorption, tra...
Written on Monday, June 11, 2018 by Permalink |
Welcome To Massachusetts: What to Expect from an MA Vehicle Safety Inspection
New to town? Welcome! Or perhaps you’ve just purchased a new or used car. Either way, the state of Massachusetts has a few requirements when it comes to how and when you should register your vehicle and get it inspected.The state mandates that every vehicle registered in Massachusetts has a current ...
Written on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 by Permalink |
Is Redlining Your Car Bad?
You’ve probably seen a Hollywood movie or two that includes a street or drag race during which the actors redline their cars at the starting line. Perhaps you’ve heard the squeal and seen the smoke of tires as someone next to you at the light redlines their own vehicle. For those who aren’t sure whether or not this is particularly good for your car, we’re here to explain the effects of redlining.What is Redlining?There is a section on your car’s dashboard called your tachometer, on which is displayed the numbers 0 through 10. The numbers are measured x1000r/min (rotations per minute). So for example, if you accelerate your car and the gauge reaches the 3, your tires are spinning at 3,000 rotations per minute. Also on the tachometer is a red zone which usually begins around 8,000r/min. When drivers accelerate quick enough, the gauge may reach into this zone -- and that is called redlining.How Redlining Affects Your EngineThe red zone on your tachometer is there for a reason -- which is to ensure drivers don’t allow their gauge to reach this many rotations per minute. Consistently redlining your car can cause serious damage to not only your tires, but also your engine. For those with manual-shift modes or manual transmissions, it can be quite easy to redline (whether on accident or on purpose) and eventually cause your engine to wear down prematurely.Other aspects of your car may also suffer from consistent redlining over time. The valve train -- which controls the flow of gas into and out of the combustion chamber of your engine -- and the transmission can also be damaged through redlinine. These parts are neither cheap nor easy to repair, which is why our auto service center recommends staying below the red zone.If you have accidentally redlined your car or are guilty of redlining on a consistent basis, we recommend heading to our auto service shops to get an engine tuneup. Our goal at Hogan Tire & Auto is to make sure your vehicle functions properly so you can enjoy it for years to come. Schedule an appointment online or check out a location near you!
Common Check Engine Light Issues
You know the dreaded check engine light scenario: you’re driving to work and suddenly out of the corner of your eye you see a light pop up on the dashboard. It’s the check engine light and you have no idea why it decided to grace you with its presence.Although there are hundreds of possibilities that could cause the check engine light to go on, only a small handful are responsible for more than 50% of all cases. Luckily the experts here at Hogan Tire & Auto can help you troubleshoot the issue by addressing the most common problems that cause your check engine light to go on.Oxygen Sensor. This tiny computerized sensor monitors the amount of fuel your car has burned. The sensor may eventually become faulty and as a result not record the data correctly causing your car’s gas mileage to decrease. Our engine diagnostic service will be able to determine which oxygen sensor is faulty and replace it.Catalytic Converter. If you neglect to change your oxygen sensor in a timely manner, then this could mean problems for your catalytic converter. This part functions to reduce your car’s exhaust by converting carbon monoxide into less harmful compounds. If you notice a decrease in gas mileage and the check engine light is on, this could mean you need to replace your catalytic converter.Loose/Broken Gas Cap. Even though there’s a nice covering that goes over your gas cap, it’s still important to make sure your gas cap is properly closed and in good working condition. Many check engine lights go on due to a loose or faulty gas cap. It’s important to address this issue in order to prevent fuel vapors from leaking out and reducing your gas mileage.Spark Plugs and Wires. Your car’s acceleration depends on spark plugs and their accompanying wires. The plug seals the combustion chamber and allows a spark to fire, accelerating your car forward when you press on the gas. Eventually spark plugs and wires wear down and they need to be replaced every 70,000-100,000 miles.Mass Airflow Sensor. Another common check engine light issue, the mass airflow sensor is responsible for telling your car’s computer when to add more fuel to the engine based on air moving through the engine. Faulty mass airflow sensors will increase emissions and decrease gas mileage -- so this issue should be addressed as soon as possible.This is just a shortlist of possible reasons for why your check engine light might be on, so it’s’ important to head to an auto repair shop as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis. Although check engine lights are sometimes unavoidable, you can work to reduce their frequency by scheduling preventative maintenance at Hogan Tire & Auto today!
Written on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 by Permalink |
Everything You Need To Know About Air Bubbles in Your Tires
Have you ever seen an odd-looking bulge on someone’s tire? Perhaps you’ve witnessed one on your own tire before. Either way, these seemingly innocent looking air bubbles should not be ignored as they are a safety hazard to both you and other drivers on the road.What Causes An Air Bubble?The biggest ...
Written on Tuesday, April 10, 2018 by Permalink |
What is your Automatic Transmission Fluid and When Should You Replace It?
Owning and operating a motor vehicle is a big responsibility. Regular upkeep is a surefire way to ensure that it runs smoothly. Going to a mechanic is like going to the doctors, if you’re not in good shape, it will likely cost you more. One basic method of making sure your vehicle will run smoothly is by regularly changing Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Transmission fluid helps lubricate various parts of a vehicle’s transmission to optimize for best performance. This fluid ensures your vehicle’s transmission is running smoothly and healthy. The engine of an automobile generates an intense amount of heat that is often hot enough to melt steel. Transmission fluid works as a lubricant to ensure the various parts of the transmission doesn’t sustain any damage.
One way in which transmission fluids is beneficial is that it helps to ensure the gears of the transmission are not grinding on each other. The fluid also works to counterbalance the friction generated by the transmission. There are many types of transmission fluids for different types of vehicles. The type of transmission used for your vehicle could be found in the maintenance section of the owner’s manual.
There are many factors in determining when you should change your transmission fluid, such as the type of vehicle and how long you’ve owned it. Depending on these factors, you may or may not need to change it often. One reason why your transmission fluid may need to be changed is because it has collected too much debris. The fluid will collect debris as it is used over time, which makes the it less effective in functioning properly.
Automatic transmissions generally require less frequent transmission oil changes than manual transmissions. Mechanics generally recommend changing your transmission fluid for automatic transmission after every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. See your owner’s manual for the recommended interval for your vehicle.
Written on Monday, March 26, 2018 by Permalink |
5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Brakes
When it comes down to avoiding an accident and keeping you and your passengers safe, your brakes are your first line of defense. The brakes of your car are one of the most important parts of the vehicle regarding it’s safely and functionality -- but not many people know the signs of when it’s time to get them checked or replaced.
Aside from the obvious brake light popping on, you should also be aware of the following signs.
Brake Pad Thickness. Brake pads wear out by becoming thinner over time. Although they are already quite thin to begin with, brakes that are less than one quarter of an inch thick should be either looked at or replaced by a technician at Hogan Tire & Auto. The brakes can be found between the caliper and the rotor of the wheel of your car.
Squealing Brakes. Aside from the brake light coming on, squealing brake pads are the most obvious signs that they need to be replaced. We recommend occasionally not driving with the music on so that you can listen to your brake system as sometimes it can be difficult to hear with the windows up and the music blaring in the background. Also listen for any harsh grinding sound, as that’s an indication that you’ve worn through the entire brake pad.
Veering to One Side. There are multiple reasons as to why your vehicle might be veering to the left or the right, but test to see if it goes to one side or the other when applying the brakes. If this is the case, then there may be a stuck caliper, collapsed brake hose, or uneven brake pads. Our tire and auto service shop can diagnose which is the culprit by running a series of diagnostic tests.
Vibrating Brake Pedal. Don’t mistake the feeling of a vibrating brake pedal with possible going over a bumpy patch on the road. When you feel this vibrating sensation through the brake pedal, this means your rotors are warped. Although rotors are a very sturdy part of your vehicle, they can warp due to friction-generated heat. You’ll want to make sure to get your car into one of our auto shops as soon as possible.
Mushy or Spongey Pedal. A mushy pedal is when you apply the brakes almost to the floor before they engage, which can be dangerous when needing to brake at high speeds. A sponey pedal, on the other hand, is a brake pad that engages at the slightest tap of your foot. Both may indicate a problem with your fluids that should be assessed by one of our auto service experts.
Experiencing any of these issues or a similarly related problem with your brakes, wheels or tires? At Hogan Tire & Auto, you’ll receive an accurate diagnosis and repair estimate as well as professional auto repair solutions in a timely manner. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations online!
Written on Monday, March 12, 2018 by Permalink |
Why You Should Always Use Your Parking Brake
How often do you think about your parking brake? Unless you drive a manual transmission vehicle, or find yourself parking on hills often, your parking brake probably isn’t on the same level of importance as leaving your keys in your transmission. However, you should think about using your parking brake more often than you think.
A parking brake, sometimes called an e-brake, or emergency brake is a way to help your vehicle stay stationary when parked. On older vehicles it is usually connected to a cable which helps keep your car, truck, or SUV stay stationary while parked. Newer vehicles may have electric parking brakes which incorporate new technologies to help keep your car stationary while parked.
So why is it important to use your parking brake at all times when parked? Cautious drivers do this because of a device inside the transmission called a parking pawl. A parking pawl is the device that keeps your car parked. As with all mechanical devices, there is always a chance a parking pawl can break. While there is a slim chance this happens, especially to newer vehicles, using your parking brake is a second line of defense to stopping your car from moving into other vehicles, or worse, sliding down a hill, in the event your pawl breaks.
If you are going to start using your parking brake always remember to disengage it before driving! If you don’t you’ll hear an unpleasant sound, and cause even more unpleasant damage to your vehicle!
Have an issue with your parking brakes or your brakes in general? Contact Hogan Tire & Auto today!
Written on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 by Permalink |
What is ABS & How Does it Work?
There has been a lot of snow and ice on the roads in Massachusetts lately and when applying the brakes, you may have noticed some instances in which your car has had a mind of it’s own. Under certain circumstances and road conditions, your car’s internal computer activated the ABS -- also known as the Anti-lock Braking System
The ABS was introduced in the mid-1980’s as a way to help drivers maintain control of their vehicle’s steering and has since become a standard safety feature for cars. The system works to prevent the driver from over-applying the brakes, which may result in skidding, fishtailing, and accidents. ABS helps the driver steer while it automatically applies the brakes in a rapid pumping motion to slow down the car.
The system has four main components that all work in unison to keep your car’s wheels from skidding while you slow down. -Speed Sensors. Each of your car’s wheels have a speed sensor that relays information back to the ABS. -Valves. The ABS controls a small valve located within the brake line. This valve works to open, block, and release pressure on the brake line. -Pump. The pump works alongside the valve. If the valve releases pressure on the brakes, then the pump serves to re-apply pressure to the brake line. -Controller. This is the computer that monitors the rest of the components and ensures that each system fires at the precise moment it is needed in order to stop the vehicle. It also works to control the valves and speed sensors. In the event that you need to stop the car in a hurry on slippery roads, your ABS will activate and a pulsing sensation from the brake pedal will occur. This is the valves and pump at work trying to slow the car down. Keep in mind that in slippery road conditions, you should not pump the brakes if your car has ABS, as this defeats the purpose of having the system in the first place. Instead, apply constant and firm pressure to the brake pedal in order for the ABS to activate. Keep your foot on the brake pedal until you come to a complete stop. Don’t forget that you still have steering capabilities, as this is the intention of having the anti-lock brake system -- your wheels should never lock. If you’re ever unclear about whether or not your ABS is working properly, Hogan Tire & Auto can run critical systems diagnostic tests to make sure that all electrical and computerized components of your vehicle are in working condition. Schedule service online today or contact one of our seven area locations.
Written on Thursday, February 8, 2018 by Permalink |
How To Be A Safe Winter Driver
Driving during the winter can be challenging. From navigating blinding blizzards on the highway to plowing through inches of snow, an accident could occur if you aren’t careful enough on the roads this year. At Hogan Tire & Auto, we want to make sure you and other drivers on the road are safe out there!
According to OSHA’s Safe Winter Driving pamphlet, it’s important to follow the “three P’s of Safe Winter Driving” – Prepare, Protect and Prevent.
Prepare
Our tire shop and auto service centers recommend preparing your car for winter weather driving. The first thing is to make sure you have winter or all-season tires on your car with good tread depth remaining. We recommend a minimum of 6/32nds of an inch. Winter tires offer a better grip on the road’s surface which helps to prevent fishtailing and skidding. Hogan Tire & Auto provides greater Boston area residents with plenty of winter and all-season tire options at all our locations.
Don’t forget to ensure that your vehicle is well maintained; have your battery replaced if you’ve noticed issues with it in the past, replenish your windshield washer fluid, and have your neighborhood Hogan Tire & Auto replace your oil and fluids. Having a well-maintained car will not only prolong its lifespan, but also prevent any winter-weather related issues.
Other means of being prepared include planning your route ahead of time and ensuring that you give yourself extra time to get to your intended destination. Check for any route closures or traffic backups that may prevent you from getting places.
Protect
Always make sure to buckle up (don’t forget – it’s Massachusetts state law!) and tell passengers to buckle up as well. For those with young children or babies that require car seats, make sure they are never facing the rear of the car if the car seat is in front of an air bag. We also recommend that children always sit in the back seat and are buckled up.
Prevent
Preventing crashes should be your top priority once you’re in the car. Whether you’re on a highway or a backroad, always give the car ahead of you plenty of room. The rule of thumb is three seconds between their back bumper and your front bumper, but we recommend increasing that to five to six seconds during winter weather conditions. You never know what the car in front of you might do!
It’s not just cars you need to worry about when driving during the winter. In Massachusetts, sometimes pedestrian walkways won’t be cleared properly (if at all) and can oftentimes force pedestrians to walk on the shoulder of the roads. Keep an eye out for anyone walking, running or biking on the road, especially at night.
For tire service or auto tune-ups, contact one of our seven Hogan Tire & Auto locations or schedule an appointment online today!
Written on Thursday, January 25, 2018 by Permalink |
Why Is My Car Steering To One Side?
While driving, there are a number of internal car-related issues that can arise. Such issues include running low on gas, a near-dead battery, or a need to check engine oil. However, all of these concerns are indicated by your vehicle – a light will come on, telling you when one of these problems arise, so you know it needs to be dealt with in the near future. The scariest issues are the ones where no light comes on – where you have no clue what could possibly be wrong.
An example of such an issue is when your car pulls to one side, but not by choice. Normally, cars designed to drive on the right side of the road will pull slightly to the right, and cars designed to drive on the left side of the road will pull slightly to the left. This pull is extremely light, and is only to prevent a car from entering oncoming traffic if the driver dozes off. If your car’s pull is not extremely light, you have a problem.
Luckily, the tire experts a Hogan Tire & Auto can assist you with deducing what the issue is.
If the vehicular alignment of the axle that the wheels rest on isn’t straight, then the tires will not be parallel, which can make the car pull.
If the brake hose becomes clogged or the brakes are not releasing freely it can cause a pull to one side.
If tires are not rotated over time, one tire may experience more wear than the others, causing the vehicle to pull to that side.
When the tire pressure on any specific tire is lower than the pressure of its counterpart on the opposing side of the car, the car will pull towards the low pressure.
With tire shops and auto service centers throughout eastern Massachusetts, Hogan Tire & Auto is here to help. Specializing in all kinds of tires and auto repair, we can assist you with any problems you may be having. Feel free to stop by or give your local Hogan Tire & Auto location for a free consultation to ensure your tire troubles are handled as soon as possible.
Written on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 by Permalink |
How Road Salt Affects Cars
With winter once again in full swing in the Northeast, the plows are out and about prepping the roads with salt. Road salt use is prevalent in the Northeast region in order to prevent road accidents. Once applied to snow or ice, the salt causes a chemical reaction which lowers the water’s freezing point; this turns the snow and ice into water even though outdoor temperatures may be well below freezing. This chemical reaction allows your winter or all-season tires to gain traction with the asphalt.
Although salting roads is necessary to prevent slipping and sliding on roadways, the salt itself can be harmful to your vehicle. For most cars, the undercarriage is completely out in the open and vulnerable to salt. Over time – and if the car isn’t washed frequently – this salt can corrode the metal parts of your vehicle, including the following:
Brake system
Subframe
Muffler
Coil springs
Exhaust system
Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to prevent your car from coming in contact with road salt (unless you keep it in your garage all season), but there are luckily a couple tricks to prevent severe road salt damage.
Avoid puddles and potholes as these can hold a high concentration of salt
Wax your car before winter to add a protective coating against road salt
Get your vehicle inspected and replace any parts that show moderate to severe signs of corrosion
Wash your car after every snowstorm and don’t forget to opt for the undercarriage treatment
Pre-treat your car’s undercarriage using an oil solution that prevents salt and water from adhering to metal.
Don’t forget to always check the weather forecast and try to avoid driving during or immediately after a snowstorm, as these are the times where road salt is most prevalent. Also keep in mind to not tailgate the salting truck/plow. Contact Hogan Tire & Auto today for winter weather-related car service and repairs.
Written on Thursday, December 14, 2017 by Permalink |
Cold Weather’s Effect on Your Vehicle
Burr! Do you feel that? That’s right, Jack Frost is approaching! By now, if you’re able to read this and navigate the Internet, you know how to prepare for the winter. Dress in layers, get waterproof boots, wool socks, and hot coco. If you don’t do these steps, you could catch a co...
Written on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 by Permalink |
Why Is My Tire Pressure Light On?
Did you turn your car on this morning only to be greeted by an annoying beep and a tire pressure light coming on? Chances are you weren’t the only one to have this happen to across eastern Mass. As temperatures plummet, so too will your tire PSI. How Temperature Decreases PSI For every 10 ...
Written on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 by Permalink |
Tips To Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter
Leaves are turning and some have even begun to fall. As October ends and November begins it means one thing in Massachusetts. Another winter is getting ready to greet us, weather we are ready for it or not. The one thing you can control is making sure your vehicle is ready for the winter. At Hogan T...
Written on Thursday, October 19, 2017 by Permalink |
Determining the Right Tread Design for Your Vehicle
Not sure what tire treads you should get, or even what the different tread types are? Each tread type has its own specific functionality for conditions and driving styles, so it is important to understand what type of tire you are looking for because it can affect the performance of your vehicle. There are four main types of tire treads, Symmetric, Asymmetric, Directional, and Directional and Asymmetric.
Symmetric are the most common types of tire tread, this tread can be found on most standard vehicles. Like its name, the treads are symmetrical, or the same throughout the whole tire. The patterns of ribs and grooves on the tire are uniform. This allows similar wear on each tire because the treads themselves are the same. The reason this tire is the most common is that of its practical functionality. Since the tire patterns are the same, this allows for any sort of rotation pattern which prolongs the life of the tire.
Asymmetric Treads combine a very different look than the symmetrical tires, again the name gives us guidance as to what the tire includes. Asymmetrical tires are actually almost split in the middle and are marked for outside only and inside only mounting. This is because the outside and inside treads of the tire are different and serve different functions. These treads can be found on higher-end sports cars or high-performance vehicles. The different patterns on each side of the tire allow them to combine dry and wet condition grips. There are a number of different rotation procedures for these.
Directional Treads are designed to only go in one direction. Similar to the outside and inside only labels on asymmetrical tires, directional tires have an arrow pointing which way the tire should be turning. These tires have V-shaped grooves in them, which also should be pointing the way they are rolling. These grooves push water and slush through the tread. If mounted wrongly the tires may not perform as intended. These tires can only be rotated from front to rear, limiting rotation options.
Asymmetric and Directional Treads obviously include both types of treads in their design. This gives them the function of both of these types of treads. They have the similar V shape groove from the directional tires for pushing water out and dry traction from the asymmetrical treads. These tires are least common, typically found high-performance exotic sports vehicles. The same rotational rules of directional treads apply with these as well.
Based on what type of car you are driving, as well as how you are driving it, you will need to know which tread is best for you. Feel free to contact the Hogan Tire & Auto nearest you with any questions or help in choosing the best tire for you and your vehicle!
Written on Thursday, October 5, 2017 by Permalink |
What is road force balance and why is it a better solution?
Have you ever been driving along the highway or speeding down a country backroad and notice a vibration in your steering wheel? This is a sign to get your car in a tire and auto repair shop because you may have a wheel imbalance or a road force variation causing the vibration.
What causes wheel vibration?
There are multiple issues that can cause excessive wheel vibration. The first is wheel balance. Many people are familiar with wheel balance. A wheel balance measures the left to right and top to bottom imbalance of the tire and is offset with weights added to the wheel. This is how almost all tire stores balance tires.
A second cause of vibration is road force variation. It is most frequently due to a wheel not being perfectly round (runout), uneven tread or uneven sidewall stiffness in the tire. Only a road force machine can measure and often correct these issues. Hogan’s Hunter Engineering GSP9700 Road Force machine allows us to measure and move the tire on the wheel to match the high point or stiff spot in the tire with the lowest spot in the rim. The adjustment makes the tire/wheel combination "round when rolling." A road force machine can predict the result of the match mounting process and tell us whether you will feel a vibration before the car leaves the shop.
Opting for the GSP9700 Road Force Balancer
At our tire and auto service centers, Hogan Tire & Auto uses Hunter’s GSP9700 Road Force Balancer to determine the radial and lateral tire forces on your tires. For customers who are still experiencing issues with vibration and handling at high speeds (even after an alignment and balancer can’t fix), this technology will solve any lingering ride and handling issues.
Benefits of the Road Force Balancer include:
Are you noticing any handling issues with your car? Stop in one of Hogan Tire & Auto’s seven locations throughout the greater Boston area, or schedule an appointment online today.
Written on Thursday, September 21, 2017 by Permalink |
Giving The Old Car To Your Teen? Here’s What You Need To Know
The time has finally come. Your precious child has earned their driver’s license and they are itching to hit the road. You take advantage of the situation and decide it’s time for a vehicle upgrade for yourself. It’s a win-win situation. But before you toss the keys to your son or daughter make sure you follow the car safety check list!
Check your tires! All tires are made to a different grade. Some need to be replaced after 30,000 miles, some after 50,000 miles. Getting a tire rotation can help prolong the life of your tires. If your treads are too low, it’s probably time to replace your tires.
A critical but often overlooked part of your vehicle are the brakes! Just like tires, brakes have different mile markers when they need to be replaced! If it’s been over year since your brakes have been checked it’s time to have your brake pads, rotors and other components inspected. Our expert technicians will let you know exactly what state your brakes are in.
At the very least before handing your car to your teen you should bring it in for preventative maintenance. At Hogan Tire & Auto we cover it all. From Oil and Filter Change to maintenance for vehicles that have reached 105,000 miles.
Since 1915 Hogan Tire & Auto has been a stable in the Woburn community for auto service and maintenance. All of our technicians are certified with the most recent industry standards. We have the lowest prices and stand by our work. But don’t take our word for it. See what our customers are saying.
Written on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 by Permalink |
The Importance of Installing a Pair of Tires on the Rear Axle
It’s generally understood that the front set of tires on a vehicle with four identical tires will wear out first. This is due to the fact that the front pair takes the brunt of the acceleration, steering and braking forces, leaving the rear tires relatively unscathed. Our tire and auto service center recommends that drivers get their tires rotated on an annual basis in order to avoid wear and tear on one specific pair of tires.
Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget to get the tires rotated on a regular basis, which then leads to the front pair wearing out before the rear pair. When this is the case, our professionals will recommend purchasing a new pair of the same tires which are then placed on the rear axle.
Ideally tires should be replaced in complete sets and rotated throughout their life to equalize front-to-rear and side-to-side wear quantity while enhancing each tire’s wear quality. However, when tires are replaced in pairs it is recommended that the new pair of tires be installed on the rear axle and the existing worn tires moved to the front. The reason is because new tires on the rear axle help the driver more easily maintain control on wet roads since deeper treaded tires are better at resisting hydroplaning.
Written on Thursday, August 10, 2017 by Permalink |
Waltham Store Updated
We've updated our Waltham showroom with a whole new look and a bit more space. We've also installed the latest Wheel Alignment system by Hunter Engineering. The industry leader in wheel alignment technology. Stop in anytime. We're here to help.
Written on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 by Permalink |
No Interest Financing If Paid In Full Within 6 Months.*
No Interest Financing If Paid In Full Withing 6 Months. Apply Now.
Plus, save an EXTRA 10% when you open and use your Hogan/cfna credit card.
Offer details.
Written on Monday, December 7, 2015 by Permalink |
Woburn Store Gets a New Showroom
The Woburn showroom has been updated with our new look. It features over 50 tire models on display and two distinct customer areas. The lounge has a kid’s play area, cable TV and gourmet coffee. The new business center offers a quieter space with a computer and wifi bar to catch up on some work or relax with a good book. Stop by anytime. We’re here to help.
Written on Friday, June 20, 2014 by Permalink |
Beverly Store Gets a New Showroom
We've updated our Beverly store with a completely new showroom to serve our customers better. The new look includes a WiFi bar in the new customer waiting area, new restrooms, and a larger customer service area. Stop in to say hi and take a look.
Written on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 by Permalink |
FREE 21 Point Vehicle Condition Report
Get a FREE 21 point complete vehicle condition report with any service or tire purchase. We'll check your brakes, tires, fluids, battery, belts, bulbs, steering, suspension, belts & hoses and more. There is no cost or obligation. It's how Hogan Keeps You Rolling...
Written on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 by Net Permalink |
We have an overstock special happening now on tires. Please call with any questions regarding overstock. Thank you!
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