frostys-auto-clinic

Getting The Right Wheels And Tires At Frosty Auto Clinic In JEFFERSON CITY

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 05:00:01 GMT

A lot of people in the JEFFERSON CITY area want custom wheels. When you do this yourself (over the internet . . .) you could run into trouble if you're not careful. Sometimes they just don't fit right: The tires rub in turns or over bumps. Consulting a tire professional at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY can ensure you get the right fit for your vehicle. First he'll ask you a series of questions about your driving needs and what you want in your new wheels.

Now, not every wheel can go on every vehicle. Care must be taken so that tires and wheels are not too large or that the wheel is centered too far towards the outside or the inside. If you don't want to make any modifications to your vehicle, you would need to focus on a wheel and tire combination that would fit. With trucks, some JEFFERSON CITY people like much bigger tires so they need a suspension lift.

Also, most JEFFERSON CITY people don't realize that you need to keep the rolling diameter of your new tires – that's the overall height of the tire – very close to what came from the factory in order for your anti-lock brakes and stability control systems to work properly.

The vehicle computers that control these systems are calibrated to a certain size tire. When you go bigger or smaller, the computer doesn't know what changes you made so it can't tell how fast you're going. This, of course, means it sends commands to the brakes and traction control that are based on the wrong sensor information. If you go with a different rolling diameter, your vehicle vehicle control computer can be reprogrammed for the new tire size.

At Frosty Auto Clinic, we can give you information about control computer reprogramming.

Either way, there are hundreds of wheel and tire choices to choose from in JEFFERSON CITY. You can pick the style of wheel you want and then talk with your JEFFERSON CITY tire professional about how big the wheel should be – and select the right tire to meet your style, performance, ride and handling needs. The best way to do all this is to have your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic tire specialist see your vehicle in person to avoid mistakes.

Give us a call.

Frosty Auto Clinic
573 6351767
310 VETERANS LN
JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65101

Steering You Right (Power Steering Fluid Service)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

It’s important for safe driving that two of the most important systems in your vehicle work right. One is the brakes. The other is the steering. Nearly all vehicles on the road have some sort of power steering that allows you to direct a very heavy machine with little effort.

There are two types, hydraulic and electric. Many newer vehicles have electric power steering that uses an electric motor to make your steering easier. But there are many vehicles on the road that use a system that has been around for years. It uses a power steering pump, a cylinder, several valves, and hydraulic fluid to make it easy for you to turn the wheel.

If you have hydraulic power steering in your vehicle, it’s important to change your power steering fluid every once in a while. Over time, the fluid gets contaminated with dirt and other particles. You might notice your steering is loose, maybe harder to turn and makes a low, straining noise. The first step in determining hydraulic power steering problems is to have your fluid checked. Its color and smell can give a technician clues to any problems. They will recommend changing it if it has signs of being old, such as the wrong color or smell.

Because steering is such a vital safety feature in your vehicle, the best strategy is to maintain your power steering according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. That means periodically, the fluid should be changed. That will prolong the life of the other steering systems components, such as hoses, seals, valves, and the power steering pump. During this service, the technician will replace the fluid, bleed the system and check for leaks. You’ll be back on the road knowing your vehicle is in top shape to steer you right.

Your Nose Knows Gasoline

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Each time we fuel up our vehicles, we get a little whiff of gasoline, so the smell is very familiar. There shouldn’t be any gasoline smell in or around your vehicle when you are away from the gas station. When you do smell gasoline away from the gas pump, the cause ranges from something simple to something that can be very dangerous.

Let's start with the simple causes. It could be a loose or faulty gas cap, or you might be missing one entirely. You may also have a leak in the fuel tank vent hose. These are relatively straightforward things to repair. By the way, because your vehicle has fans that draw in outside air, you may be able to smell these outside fuel leaks inside the cabin.

Here are some other possible sources of a gasoline smell. You may have a leak in your fuel tank, and these are more common than you might think. Fuel tanks can rot or get punctured by road debris. The tank can be fixed or replaced.

The fuel lines can also deteriorate or be damaged by road debris. Vehicles with fuel injectors have high pressure in their fuel lines, so any small holes or leaks can allow vaporized gasoline to escape, sometimes near hot engine parts. Obviously, this is something that a technician should repair as soon as possible.

Another couple of causes? A leak near a fuel injector can also allow small amounts of gasoline to escape. A technician can replace the seals or O-rings if they have deteriorated. Also, you could have gasoline leaking out of your vehicle's charcoal canister, which is a device that prevents evaporating gasoline vapors inside your fuel tank from venting out to the atmosphere. This will often cause the Check Engine light to illuminate.

Gasoline fumes and leaks can be dangerous for a couple of reasons: they could be a fire hazard and inhaling fumes can cause health problems. It's always wise to get fuel leaks checked out at your NAPA AutoCare Center as soon as you can.

Easy on the Wheel (Power Steering)

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 05:00:03 GMT

Steering a vehicle these days doesn't take much effort, but if you got behind the wheel back before power steering was invented, you'd need to practically have the strength of Hercules to turn the wheel.

The first power steering systems widely available changed everything. Chrysler introduced its Hydraguide power system in 1951. The "hydra" was for a hydraulic pump. It pressurized fluid that multiplied the force applied to the steering wheel so it was easier to turn the wheels on the ground. That pump got power from a belt attached to the engine, but unfortunately it wasted a lot of energy in the process. Plus, the system of hoses and pumps required a fair amount of maintenance and repair. Some say this system provides the most "natural" steering experience of power systems.

Recently, automakers have turned to electric power steering. It gets its power from the car's electrical battery and charging system and uses an electric motor to turn the wheels. Since it's not powered by the mechanical energy of your vehicle's engine, electric power steering increases fuel economy. Electric power steering also doesn't require hoses and fluids, meaning there are fewer things that can go wrong. That means less maintenance.

There's a third system that combines both of the others, called electro-hydraulic power steering. In this system, the hydraulic power steering pump is powered by an electric motor and, some say, gives the driver that more natural feel of hydraulic systems.

Because steering is so important for the safe operation of any vehicle, it's essential to make sure yours is working the way it should. Different types of systems require different kinds of upkeep. Regular, scheduled maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations should help keep your steering in top shape so you can avoid any sudden steering failures. Bring your vehicle to us so a technician can inspect your steering system. And, of course, if you notice any steering problems, make an appointment right away to have those issues looked at. Now that's one stop that makes sense!

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Power Brakes

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Basically, the power brake system helps you provide braking power so that you don't have to do all the work with your brake pedal.

The brakes themselves are applied at the wheel using hydraulic pressure. When we step on the brake pedal, we create pressure in the power booster that's multiplied by vacuum from the engine. The resulting pressure pushes brake fluid through the master cylinder into tubes and hoses that run to the brake at each wheel.

When there's a problem, it's usually a fluid leak somewhere along the line. It could be at a fitting or a hose, or even an internal leak in the master cylinder. A leak gives the pressurized fluid somewhere to go other than to the brakes, so stopping power is hurt. Lose enough fluid and you can't stop at all. Of course that's extremely dangerous.

If you notice any decrease in stopping power or if your pedal seems mushy, you could have a problem. There are some preventive maintenance items for the power brake system that will help them last longer.

Obviously you'd want to make sure your brake fluid is filled to the recommended level. Low fluid in the master cylinder could indicate a leak or worn brake material. Master cylinder leaks are usually due to it wearing out, but leaks in the brake lines and connectors can be minimized by replacing the brake fluid from time to time. Additives in brake fluid protect against corrosion that can damage brake components.

Brake fluid also attracts moisture which can lead to rust — not a good thing for expensive anti-lock brake components. Also, significant amounts of water in the brake fluid can affect stopping power because the water has a much lower boiling point than brake fluid. In the high temperature environment of the brake system, the water can vaporize, and steam doesn't do a very good job of providing hydraulic pressure.

A final word — make sure you use the recommended type of brake fluid. There are several kinds, and using the wrong one can lead to total brake failure. Your service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic can help you. Just give us a call at 573 6351767 .

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Air Conditioning Service at Frosty Auto Clinic

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Most people don’t service their air conditioning until after it fails. Maintaining your air conditioning system means that you always have enough refrigerant to properly do the job. Small leaks in the air conditioning system allow the refrigerant to escape and the system can’t cool the air as well.

Along with the refrigerant, a special oil circulates in the system. The oil lubricates air conditioning components and keeps the seals resilient. Low refrigerant and lubricating oil mean that the air conditioning parts will wear out prematurely, and we all know that air conditioning repairs can be costly.

Air conditioning service starts with a visual inspection of the components for signs of damage or leaks. The compressor is driven by a belt from the engine, most often the serpentine belt, so it’s inspected for cracks or wear.

The air conditioning compressor and other components are checked for proper operation. Then comes the leak test. If a leak is detected, often in a hose or connection, it’s repaired, and the system is retested. The technician will also perform a temperature drop test.

If needed, the old refrigerant is evacuated, and the system is recharged with clean, fresh refrigerant. A final test ensures that the air conditioner is working, and you’re on your way.

How often this should be done varies from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner’s manual will have the manufacturer’s recommendation and, of course, your service advisor can tell you. It’s typically every two years.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

The Fallacy of Cheap Tires Sold in JEFFERSON CITY

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

New tires are a big ticket item for most JEFFERSON CITY drivers. You're not only concerned about the price, but you want to know that it'll be a long time before you need to buy new tires again.

And of course there's the safety aspect as well. The tires do a lot of work – they carry the weight of the vehicle and you and your passengers around JEFFERSON CITY. They need to be up to the task. You want to be sure they hold the road and provide good traction. JEFFERSON CITY drivers who carry heavy loads or tow a trailer need a high load tires to be up for the job.

The tire professionals at Frosty Auto Clinic think it's important that JEFFERSON CITY drivers understand the effect of price on a tire's performance and durability. The major tire brands sold in JEFFERSON CITY that you're familiar with are known in MO as Tier 1 tires . These tires are well-engineered and very high quality. Comparable tires are usually in the same price range from brand to brand.

Stepping down in price you come to private label tires . Some large JEFFERSON CITY tire store chains carry tires with the chain's own brand. It's important to know that most private label tires sold in the area are built by the same Tier 1 brands that you are familiar with – so they are a quality product. You can ask your Frosty Auto Clinic tire professional who makes their private brand.

The lowest priced tires on the market are Tier 3 tires . These tend to be imported from China or South America. Since you get what you pay for, you can't expect a Tier 3 tire to deliver the same performance and durability as the others. Hey, sometimes the budget will only allow for a Tier 3 tire. That's OK because it's a good thing to be driving with safe, new tires than pushing your old tires beyond their safety limits. But it's good counsel to buy as much tire as you can afford, because it will be much less expensive in the long run. Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touch the JEFFERSON CITY road. You're only as safe as your tires are well built. Buy value – not price .

Give us a call .

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic: Cabin Air Filter

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:17:20 GMT

Question:

My car has a bad odor when I run the heater or air conditioner. My friend said I might need a new cabin air filter – what’s that?

Answer:

A cabin air filter is a special filter that cleans the air that comes into the passenger compartment – or cabin – of your vehicle. Most new vehicles now have a cabin air filter.

A cabin air filter catches dust, pollen, spores and other pollutants before they can get into your cabin. It’s kind of like the filter on your furnace, cleaning the air you breathe inside.

As you can imagine, it eventually gets filled up and can even start to get smelly. So – you just have it replaced. Now some are easy to access, and others are tougher to get to. Your service technician will be able to take care of it for you.

Your owner’s manual likely has a recommendation for when to replace the cabin air filter. If you live and drive where there is a lot of dust, pollen or pollution, the filter will fill up quicker. Of course, if you’re getting a bad odor bring it to the attention of your service advisor.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Straight to the Point (Alignment Signs of Problems)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 15:38:00 GMT

It’s just common sense that your vehicle will drive better if all the wheels are lined up with each other and the road the way the engineers intended. When they’re not, that is called being out of alignment. Here are some signs that your alignment has problems.

• Your steering wheel isn’t straight when your vehicle goes straight down a straight road. This one’s pretty easy to notice. If your vehicle’s logo on the wheel is tilted, that’s probably not the way designers wanted it to be. Bring it in and have us check it out.

• Your steering wheel is vibrating on a smooth road or when you are accelerating. While this could be caused by several different things, one possibility is misalignment. If your steering wheel is shaking, it should be examined by a trained technician.

• Your vehicle is pulling to one side without you wanting it to. Sometimes the configuration of the road will cause it to pull slightly left or right. But if you find yourself constantly correcting course to keep your vehicle headed straight down the road, that’s worth having us look at your alignment.

• You’re going through tires like there’s no tomorrow. The tread on your tires should be wearing nice and evenly from the outside to the inside of the tire. If the wear isn’t even, it could be your vehicle needs an alignment.

We have equipment designed to quickly and accurately measure your vehicle’s alignment. We can make precise adjustments to make sure you are headed straight where you want to go. Have your alignment checked regularly. It can help prevent more serious problems in the future and make your vehicle drive as beautifully as you remember it used to.

Call Frosty's Today!

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Vehicle Axles in Jefferson City

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:34:47 GMT

Your axles are the last link in transferring power from the engine to your wheels. They’re strong parts that last a long time – but they can run into trouble.

Axles just wear out over time and need to be replaced. And sometimes axle seals leak, causing the axle to wear out prematurely. Lubricant leaks out, and water and dirt can get in and contaminate the gears. When this happens you might hear strange noises coming from your axle.

If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the sound would be at the rear end. If you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, the sound would be up front. Of course, with an all-wheel drive, the sound could come from either front or back. It might be a groaning sound or clunking when turning.

There are different kinds of axles, each with their own potential problems. Your service technician knows this and checks for things like leaking seals, torn CV boots, worn axle joints. An inspection will reveal if there are any problems or if a part is nearing failure.

When there is a concern with the axle shaft, it will be removed and inspected. If it’s damaged, the shaft will have to be replaced. If the shaft is in good shape, it’ll be cleaned, lubed and reinstalled. Damaged CV boots are replaced as well.

It’s important to take care of this work as soon as you become aware of a problem. Waiting only makes the damage worse and more expensive to repair later. If the axle fails completely, it could lock up. This could severely damage other things like your transmission – very expensive. It could also contribute to an accident, which nobody wants.

Taking care of your axles when they need it saves money in the long run, and helps keep you safely on the road.

Give us a call

Anti-Lock Brakes

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 19:35:04 GMT

We rely on our brakes to safely slow and stop our vehicles. You’ve probably had the experience where you’ve slammed on your brakes and started to skid. When your wheels are locked up, you are just sliding over the road. And if the road is wet or slick or covered with gravel – you really get out of control. Steering is next to impossible. That is why anti-lock brake systems (ABS) were invented: to help you maintain control in extreme stopping conditions.

As mentioned, control is lost when your wheels lock up. ABS keeps your brakes from locking – helping you stop while maintaining your ability to steer. Sensors on each wheel equipped with ABS monitor wheel spin and compare it with vehicle speed sensors. When you are pressing on the brakes, still traveling forward but your wheels are not turning, the ABS system steps in and modulates the brakes.

They ABS quickly “pumps” the brakes, not allowing the wheels to lock up while still applying braking pressure. This is all done automatically without any intervention on your part. You will feel a pulsation through the brake pedal and will hear a clunking as the brakes are rapidly being applied and released over and over again. The first time this happens to you, you may be surprised and think something is wrong. Well, it isn’t – so just keep your foot on the brake and allow the ABS to do its thing. In fact, remember the 3 S’s of anti-lock brakes: Stomp, Stay and Steer. Stomp on the brakes, stay on the pedal and steer as needed.

When you first start your vehicle, the ABS does a quick self-check to make sure everything is OK. The ABS warning light will briefly illuminate with all of the other warning lights on your dashboard and then go out. If the system detects a fault, the ABS light will come on and stay on. Definitely take your vehicle to Frosty Auto Clinic for a check if the ABS warning light is on.

Proper brake system service from Frosty Auto Clinic is the best way to protect your ABS. Replacing brake fluid that is depleted and/or contaminated will help preserve proper ABS operation and protect it against corrosion.

Ask your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor if it’s time for a braking system inspection or service.

Oil Change

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:17:03 GMT

An oil change: Sounds simple, but there’s some important things to know about preventing oil sludge.

Oil eventually starts to turn into jelly. Literally – petroleum jelly. Sludge clogs up oil passages and keeps oil from getting to some areas of the engine, causing parts to wear out prematurely. And that means expensive engine repairs.

That’s why you need to change the oil and oil filter on schedule – to get the old oil out before it turns to sludge. Your manufacturer will have a recommendation for how many miles you can go between oil changes. They also usually have several months between recommended oil changes. That’s because the detergents and other additives in the oil break down over time.

Your owner’s manual will have a recommendation for time and mileage, but you need to remember that it’s based on using the recommended weight of oil. And if your vehicle came from the factory with synthetic oil, the recommended intervals assume you continue to use synthetic.

Also, how you drive can have a big effect. Most owner’s manuals will have a list of driving conditions that are harder on your vehicle. Things like stop and go driving, short trips, driving in very hot or very cold weather, heavy loads and towing. If some of your driving fits this, you may need to change your oil and do other maintenance on a shorter schedule.

This may sound complicated. Some vehicles have an oil life calculator that takes all these factors into account and tells you when you should change your oil. Otherwise, talk with your service advisor about how you drive and get her recommendation for when to take care of your service.

Finally, if any of the steering or suspension parts can be lubed, your technician will take care of that with a lube, oil and filter service.

Give us a call.

Disc Brake Maintenance At Frosty Auto Clinic In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 21:04:01 GMT

Your vehicle weighs several thousand pounds and it takes a lot of force to bring it and your passengers to a safe stop – so everything needs to be in good working order.

The wheel hub keeps your wheel attached the vehicle. The brake disc – or rotor – is attached to the hub and spins with the wheel as you drive. Your brake pads clamp onto the rotor to slow the wheel.

The brake caliper straddles the rotor and squeezes the rotor to slow it down. The calipers contain brake pads which rub on the rotor when you step on the brakes.

The brake piston causes the calipers to squeeze and release as you use your brakes.

Your brake pads start to wear the first time you step on the brakes. Eventually the pads are worn out and need to be replaced. If you don’t replace the pads when they’re worn out, the metal parts of the brake will grind against the rotor and carve grooves into the surface.

If a scored rotor isn’t too bad, your technician can put the rotor on a lathe and smooth it out. If the grooves are too deep, or if the rotor is warped or cracked, you need to be replaced it.

Servicing disc brakes require special attention to the mechanical sliding and mounting portions of the system. Your service supplier knows the special needs. Sometimes brake pistons can stick and must be replaced. Typically, it’s cheaper to replace the entire caliper than to rebuild the piston.

So, there you have it – an inside look at how your disc brakes work. Replacing your brake pads on time will not only keep your vehicle stopping safely but could save you money on unnecessary brake repairs down the road.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Why You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:53:22 GMT

It’s easy to forget about servicing your transmission because it doesn’t need it very often, but proper transmission service keeps your vehicle running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road.

The transmission undergoes a lot of stress. The grit you see in used fluid is actually bits of clutch material. This grit flowing through your transmission under pressure eats away at seals and gaskets which can lead to leaks. The transmission operates at very high temperatures – much higher than engine temperatures. Those high temperatures eventually cause the transmission fluid to start to break down and loose efficiency. At best, your transmission won’t operate smoothly. At worse, it could lead to costly damage. When your transmission’s running properly, it transfers more power from your engine to the drive wheels and improves fuel economy. That’s why manufacturers have recommended changing your transmission fluid at regular intervals. Your owner’s manual has a schedule for transmission service and, of course, your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor can tell you what the manufacturer recommends.

At Frosty Auto Clinic, we may be able to perform a transmission service while you wait and the cost is quite reasonable. Actually, it’s downright cheap when you think about how much a major transmission repair can cost!

Give us a call.

Alternator Facts (Alternator Diagnosis and Repair)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:22:52 GMT

When your vehicle doesn't start, the first thing you think of might be the battery. That may be the culprit, but it also might be that your alternator has gone bad.

An alternator sends power to your vehicle's electrical systems and accessories like your entertainment system, charging ports, and so on. Any extra electricity goes to re-charge the battery. So, your battery is what gets your engine started, but once the engine's running, your alternator is what's turning out the power. A failing alternator may not be able to keep the battery charged.

One of the most common causes of an alternator's demise is the bearings fail and seize up. That can happen from dirt and liquid getting into the bearings combined with the heat of the engine. You might hear a grinding sound, an early warning that something's wrong.

Other signs your alternator may be failing? A squealing noise in your engine, or your headlights dimming when engine RPMs drop. You may notice an electrical smell coming from the engine. If any of these are happening, you'll want to have your vehicle checked at your NAPA AutoCare Center.

Many modern alternators have a decoupler pulley that allows the alternator to rest when it isn’t needed. This extends alternator life and helps with fuel economy. A bad decouple pulley could cause your battery to go dead.

If your alternator needs to be replaced, you should also replace the serpentine belt that turns it, and the belt tensioner as well. As you can imagine, if the alternator isn’t rotating as it should, the belt that turns it won't freely move, and that can cause excessive belt wear.

The service advisor at your NAPA AutoCare Center will recommend the right replacement parts based on your vehicle's needs and your driving habits. And remember, if you notice any of those warning signs that the alternator might be going bad, it's always better to have it checked out, so you don't find yourself stranded on the road.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Thermostat

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:30:16 GMT

The thermostat is part of your cooling system. JEFFERSON CITY residents' vehicle thermostats perform a similar function to the thermostats in their homes. At home, you set your thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature range. When your home gets too hot, the air conditioning kicks on and when it gets too cool, the heater turns on.

Now your engine also has an optimal temperature range: warm enough to run efficiently and not so hot as to cause engine damage. Your vehicle's thermostat is a valve between the engine and the radiator. When JEFFERSON CITY residents first start a cold engine, the valve (thermostat) is closed, allowing the coolant surrounding the engine to warm up to the proper operating temperature. As the coolant gets hotter, the thermostat opens, allowing coolant to flow through to the radiator to be cooled. The thermostat opens and closes to keep the engine within a certain temperature range.

Now thermostats are rated for a specific temperature depending on the engine – not a one size fits all proposition. Thermostats are subject to normal wear. Proper operation depends on a special wax that expands as it heats up to open a spring-loaded valve. A worn thermostat could stick in the open position causing the engine to run too cool. This is inefficient and could affect performance and fuel economy. If a thermostat sticks in the closed position, the engine can be subject to the results of overheating.

There isn't a specific routine for JEFFERSON CITY residents to maintain their thermostat, but maintaining the cooling system by changing the coolant/antifreeze on schedule will make sure the coolant has enough corrosion inhibitors to protect the thermostat and other system components. Cooling system experts and the team at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY recommend replacing your thermostat when you do a coolant flush or exchange. Also, thermostats usually wear out faster than your hoses, so if a worn hose replacement is performed, replace the thermostat at the same time.

If your temperature warning light comes on, have an inspection of your cooling system right away. This could be a thermostat . The thermostat could also be the culprit for JEFFERSON CITY residents who aren't getting hot air when they turn on their heater.

The thermostat is a relatively inexpensive part that stands guard between you and catastrophic engine damage. Follow your owner's manual instructions, or check with your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor to see if it's time for a cooling system inspection or service.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Making Your Vehicle Last With Regular Service in JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:56:53 GMT

A lot of people in MO have older vehicles. They're good commuters, grocery-getters or toy-haulers. They enjoy that fact that they're paid off, or soon will be. They would gladly like to keep their vehicles for 200,000 miles/320,000 kilometers or more – as long as it's economical to do so.

There are plenty of people in JEFFERSON CITY whose vehicles are running after 150,000 or 200,000 miles (240,000 or 320,000 kilometers). We can learn from what they're doing to keep our own cars on the road.

A common denominator is that they never skip an oil change. That may sound a bit unsophisticated, but it's really not. First off, oil is the life blood of your engine and it needs to be clean to properly lubricate. Skipping oil changes leads to clogged oil filters and sludge that can damage your engine. Enough said.

There's another reason the scheduled oil change is so important. It's simple — a Frosty Auto Clinic professional is going to be looking at your car. All of your fluid levels will be inspected and topped off so they won't get so low that damage can be done. If there is a significant fluid loss — let's use brake fluid as an example — your JEFFERSON CITY technician can look for the cause of the loss and find the problem before it leads to an accident or costly repair.

Your JEFFERSON CITY service technician will also visually inspect the vehicle for worn belts and hoses, uneven tire wear, leaking shock absorbers and more. Problems get addressed before they lead to repairs that cost more than the car's worth. And your JEFFERSON CITY service advisor will be able to remind you of other services that the factory recommends you get done.

Just think of that oil change the same way as you do about going to the dentist for your six month cleaning and checkup. Don't skip it.

Of course, good maintenance costs money, but it's far cheaper than new car payments.

Give us a call to schedule your next oil change today. You can find us online at Frosty Auto Clinic, or you can find us in JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65101, at 310 VETERANS LN. Or simply give us a call at 573-635-1767.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Transfer Case Services

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:52:25 GMT

Most in the area may not know much about transfer cases, but if you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, you've got one. It makes sure you have power available for both the front and rear axles when driving around MO.

For example, if you have a rear-wheel drive SUV, power goes to the rear wheels until you need four-wheel drive. That's when the transfer case steps in and transfers some of the power to the front wheels as well. You might use a shift lever to go into four-wheel drive, it could be a button on the dash or it might even go into four-wheel drive automatically, depending on your vehicle.

The transfer case is serviced at Frosty Auto Clinic by periodically draining its fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid. We also check for leaks and damage. Transfer case fluid cools and lubricates the gears, chains, bearings, shafts and other parts for JEFFERSON CITY motorists. Over time, the additives in the fluid wear out and it doesn't protect as well. Also, bits of metal and clutch material wear off and contaminate the fluid. There isn't a filter in the transfer case, so if JEFFERSON CITY drivers allow the contamination to stay for too long, it'll further accelerate wear.

Now, your owner's manual may not have a recommended interval for when you should change your transfer case fluid – so ask your JEFFERSON CITY service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic. There are several things that affect how often you should change the fluid, so tell her how often you use four-wheel drive: if you drive in wet JEFFERSON CITY environments like places you cross streams or drive through mud and snow. That kind of stuff really shortens the drain interval.

Transfer case parts will eventually wear out and you'll have to make repairs. But properly servicing your transfer case at Frosty Auto Clinic will keep that day as far in the future as possible.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

The Smell of Danger (What Causes Gasoline Odors)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:23:58 GMT

A driver recently noticed that her garage had begun to smell like gasoline after she parked her vehicle inside. Her Check Engine light had also just come on. This was something she'd never experienced before. So, she called up her NAPA Service Advisor and asked what was causing it.

The answer, of course, is that many things can cause a sitting vehicle to smell like gasoline fumes. But it can sometimes be tricky to track down the source, so here are a few things you can look for that may help your NAPA AutoCare Center technician pinpoint the origin of the odor.

Gasoline odors can be caused by a leak somewhere in the fuel system, meaning gasoline can be dripping out. Some possibilities? It could be a break in a fuel line. You could have a leaky fuel-injection line or injector. There's a vent for your fuel tank that may also leak. The fuel filler neck can wear out and fail. One thing you should look for is to see if there are any puddles of gasoline on the floor of your garage. Any time there is gasoline sitting around, it can be dangerous. Fumes can be a health hazard, and you know gasoline can catch fire if exposed to a flame or spark.

A couple of other causes of gas smells? Your vehicle may have a charcoal canister which stores excess fuel vapor. If it cracks or its seal is damaged, you may smell a strong gasoline odor. This may also cause your Check Engine light to come on. And don't rule out something as obvious as your gas cap. It may be loose or worn out, so it doesn't seal the fumes in. A leaky, loose, or missing gas cap may also cause the Check Engine light to come on.

Whatever the cause, if your garage has started to smell strongly of gasoline, call your NAPA AutoCare Center before you attempt to start the vehicle. Fire risk is high, so you may be advised to have your vehicle towed to the service center. Gasoline is the source of your engine's power. If that power is unleashed in an uncontrolled way, it could hurt or kill you or others around you.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Call us today!

Battery Upgrades

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 20:54:00 GMT

When that car battery finally gives up the ghost and it's time to replace it, JEFFERSON CITY drivers have options. First, let's be clear that you should always get a replacement battery that meets or exceeds your vehicle's specifications. But you may have some special needs. When they first put the battery into your vehicle at the factory, they had no idea where it would end up over its life or how YOU would use it where you drive in MO. That battery was chosen to meet the needs of a wide range of motorists. Replacement time is a good opportunity to talk to your service advisor about how you use your vehicle so you can get just the right battery.

An obvious criterion is where you live, whether in JEFFERSON CITY or somewhere else. Cold starts require a lot of power from your battery. The colder the climate, the more power needed. This comes from a combination of cold sluggish oil and the slower chemical reaction within the battery itself when it is cold. If this sounds like you, talk to your service advisor Frosty Auto Clinic about a battery with more Cold Cranking Amps (CCA).

The next consideration for JEFFERSON CITY drivers is reserve capacity. This is the number of minutes of reserve power the battery has under a particular load. If your driving is mostly short stop-and-go trips around JEFFERSON CITY, your battery may not have time to fully recharge while driving. You may need to tap into those reserves to get started again. Also, modern vehicles have a lot of always-on systems that draw on the battery – things like the security system, remote sensors, and vehicle computers. These combine with the electronic entertainment system, sensors, heated seats and even chargers for phones, tablets and computers to put a fairly high load on the battery. Your service advisor Frosty Auto Clinic can give you advice on the reserve capacity you might need.

Most standard batteries are “wet-cell,” meaning they are filled with liquid battery acid. New Absorbed Gas Mat (AGM) batteries are “non-spillable” which makes them safer JEFFERSON CITY . They also have a longer life span and greater cycle life than wet-cell batteries. JEFFERSON CITY off-roaders like these batteries because their performance is not affected by steep inclines and odd angles. They are also well suited for JEFFERSON CITY RV and boat owners.

Lastly, consideration for JEFFERSON CITY drivers is warranty. Premium batteries come with a longer warranty. Warranties are typically either full-replacement (the battery is replaced if it fails within the warranty period) or pro-rated (a partial credit is given for the failed battery depending on how far into the warranty period you are when it fails).

When the battery is replaced, your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic technician may need to recalibrate some accessories such as power windows and sunroofs. Also, some vehicles may need to have the battery registered into the engine computer.

Your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor can help you know how to decide which battery is right for you and your vehicle.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Losing Your Cool (Why is My Air Conditioning System Not Working?)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:29:55 GMT

When you turn on the air conditioning in your vehicle, you expect cool air to come out of the vents. You depend on it, especially in hot weather, but it can also be important in humid weather when you need it to help defrost your windows and windshield.

The air conditioning system has a lot of parts to it. It has fans and blowers to move the air through the vents into the cabin. It has parts that take hot air and cool it off. An electrical problem can be as simple as a broken switch or a broken blower motor. The air may not be getting cool because a hose in the system is broken or the refrigerant has leaked out.

Two major components are the compressor and the condenser. The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, one step in the air conditioning process. The condenser takes that hot refrigerant and cools it down. It also reduces the pressure.

Because the climate control system in your vehicle is so complex, it’s best to leave the diagnosis to a trained, experienced technician. You can help the technician zero in on the problem by noting what is happening and being able to show them where you notice the issues. Note what’s going on and write it down.

When you bring your vehicle in to us to look at, a technician will inspect the system, conduct tests to make sure there’s enough refrigerant, and check to make sure there are no leaks anywhere.

Air conditioning is now included in most vehicles. We all have grown used to being able to keep the cabin comfortable no matter what it’s like outside. Let us make sure your system is working the way it was designed to. That’s definitely the cool thing to do.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Tire Tread Depth

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:47:09 GMT

When talking about stopping power, we tend to focus on our brakes. But our tires are where the rubber meets the road. So having good brakes isn't enough: we have to have tires with enough traction to translate braking power into stopping power.

Let's focus on stopping in wet conditions. In order for a tire to have good contact with the road, it has to move the water out of the way. If it can't move the water, the tire will actually ride on top of a thin film of water.

To move water out of the way, the tire has channels for water to flow through. Look at a tire and you'll see channels that run around and across the tire. They're designed to direct water away from the tire so it can contact the road better.

The deeper the channel, the more water it can move. A brand new tire has very deep channels and can easily move a lot of water. As the tire wears down, the channels become shallower and can move less water. When it wears down enough, it can seriously affect your ability to stop on wet roads.

Consumer Reports and other advocate groups think that a good standard of replacing tires when the tread is worn down to 4/32 of an inch. That's 3.2 millimeters.

When tires are worn to 2/32 of an inch, or 1.6 millimeters, the tread wear bar is visible. So the recommended standard has twice the tread depth as a completely worn out tire - and that little bit of additional tread makes a big difference. Stopping distances are cut dramatically on wet roads. A safe stop from freeway speeds with 4/32 of an inch of tread could result in a crash with worn out tires.

There's an easy way to tell when a tire's worn to 4/32 of an inch. Just insert an American quarter into the tread. Put it in upside down. If the tread doesn't cover George Washington's hairline; it's time to replace your tires. With a Canadian quarter, the tread should cover the numbers in the year stamp.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Deep Breathing In JEFFERSON CITY: Engine Air Filter

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:30:15 GMT

Your vehicle engine really needs clean air to operate efficiently. It takes about twelve thousand gallons of air to burn a gallon of gas in your vehicle engine. And clean air is much better than dirty.

When your air filter's dirty, it simply can't trap any more dirt, so the dirt just passes through into your air intake system. From there it can get into the vehicle engine combustion chamber. And burning dust and pollen in your engine as you drive around JEFFERSON CITY does you no good.

The verdict: When your engine air filter needs to be replaced, it needs to be replaced. How often depends entirely on how dirty the air is in MO where you drive. A simple visual inspection by a friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic technician will tell you when you need a new engine air filter in your vehicle.

When you look at the air filter on your furnace in your home and see it's all clogged up with dust and dirt, you don't hesitate to replace it. But don't wait until your air filter (furnace or automobile) is totally plugged; by that time you've been running inefficiently for a long distance.

When your Frosty Auto Clinic service technician brings out your nasty engine air filter, you now know why you should go ahead and change it out.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic for JEFFERSON CITY: Timing Belt Replacement

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:53:37 GMT

Question:

My friend had a broken timing belt and it was very expensive to repair his engine. What can I do to avoid a broken timing belt?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

Well, a broken timing belt can lead to one of the most expensive engine repairs JEFFERSON CITY drivers will ever face. The good news is that replacing your timing belt on its recommended schedule can help avoid those problems.

Here’s a brief overview of what the timing belt does:

Air is drawn into the cylinder of the engine through the intake valves. After the air and fuel mixture is burned, it’s pushed out through the exhaust valves. The timing belt, which is driven by the engine, turns the camshafts which control when the intake and exhaust valves open and close. It is important that the opening and closing of the valves take place at exactly the right time for the engine to run properly.

Beyond that, on some engines the valves actually extend into the combustion chamber far enough that they can be hit by the piston as it moves up and down in the cylinder. When everything is timed just right – no problem. When the timing is off, the piston will slam into the valves and cause big (expensive) damage.

The timing belt makes sure everything is timed just right. However, the belt does have a useful life. Beyond that it can break or slip – and that’s when the damage can be done. If your vehicle has a timing belt (some have metal timing chains) it will have a recommended interval for replacing it, typically in the 60,000 to 90,000 mile range. Be sure to check your owner’s manual or with your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor to make sure you know when your timing belt needs to be replaced: there is a lot at stake.

Now, getting to the timing belt requires a lot of labor so it is an expensive service item, but it is certainly less expensive than repairing a damaged engine. If your timing belt drives your water pump, change them both at the same time to save labor costs down the road. Ask your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor when your timing belt should be changed and get an estimate for what it will cost so you can budget for this important service.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic for JEFFERSON CITY: Wheel Bearings

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 19:45:07 GMT

Question:

I remember my dad having the shop “pack the bearings” on the family car. Is this something I need to have done?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

That's a really good question. At one time, all wheel bearings were “serviceable” and needed to be taken care of from time to time. It's a little trickier these days.

First off, the wheel bearings in your vehicle make sure your wheels rotate smoothly. As you can imagine, with all those revolutions per minute your wheels can generate a lot of heat. The bearings keep that heat down as much as possible. They're packed in grease for lubrication. The term “packing the bearings” refers to putting fresh grease around the bearings.

On many modern vehicles, the wheel bearing assembly is sealed. These wheel bearings are not serviceable so there is no maintenance that can be performed on them. When the bearings wear, the entire assembly is replaced. Your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic technician can perform a check of your bearings to make sure they are still functioning safely, and he can also tell you if your bearings need service. If you hear strange noises from your wheels – which may come and go at different speeds – it's time to have your friendly and knowledgeable technician inspect them.

Wheel bearings on trailers are almost always serviceable. This means anything from a monster sized fifth-wheel camper to a little utility trailer. Boat trailers are especially susceptible because the hot wheel bearings are plunged into cold water when launching a boat into the lake. This temperature difference can draw water into the bearings. Have the bearings repacked at the end of the season to prevent corrosion.

It would be a good idea for JEFFERSON CITY trailer owners to have maintenance service on their trailer wheels every year or so – it's kind of hard to hear when they are groaning.

Now, when wheel bearings fail, the wheel can seize up and even break off. Of course no JEFFERSON CITY driver wants that to happen, so follow a regular inspection schedule – your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor can help.

Give us a call.

Alternator

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:12:25 GMT

Question:

My battery keeps going dead. I had it tested and it is fine - what could be the problem?

Answer:

Well, your problem could be caused by several things. Let's start with a likely suspect: your alternator. The alternator is like a little electrical generator. It is spun by the serpentine belt on your engine and makes electricity. This electricity is used to power the electrical systems required to run your vehicle. It also powers all your electronic accessories like your stereo, navigation, heated seats, and air fans, as well as charging all the electronics you have plugged in.

After the alternator has done all that, any electricity that's left over is used to charge your battery. You can see where we're going: if the battery isn't getting enough electricity to stay charged the reason may have something to do with the alternator.

Now it could be that the alternator is bad – they do wear out over time. There are several failure points within the alternator, but in practice, it is cheaper to simply replace the alternator than to take it apart and repair it.

Your service center can test your alternator to see if it needs to be replaced. Very often the alternator tests out as being OK - but for some other reason it's not putting out enough electricity to keep the battery charged. Remember we said that the serpentine belt drives the alternator? Well the fault can often lie with the serpentine belt system.

The serpentine belt transfers power from the engine to the alternator. When the belt wears away to a certain point, it is no longer able to provide enough grip and the belt can slip on the alternator pulley so that it is not spinning fast enough to generate all the electricity that your vehicle needs.

A possible related problem is a worn serpentine belt tensioner pulley. This pulley provides tension on the serpentine belt so that it is tight enough to spin the alternator and other accessories. When the belt is too loose, it can slip on the alternator pulley and, once again, not enough electricity is made.

So, when your battery is going dead - test it. If the battery is still good - test the alternator. If the alternator is still good - inspect the serpentine belt and belt tensioner. Chances are good that your service center will get to the root of your problem.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Your Vehicle's Other Power Plant (Alternator Replacement)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 19:54:58 GMT

Your vehicle's engine is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a power plant. But it has another power source that is vital as well: the alternator.

The alternator is what puts out the electricity that powers such things as your lights, power windows, sound system, and navigation. Maybe you've started seeing those electrical components behaving in strange ways. Maybe your power windows are going up and down a little bit more slowly than they used to. Or perhaps your engine doesn't start as easily or is misfiring.

Other signs of a failing alternator are headlights that are either brighter or dimmer than usual. If your battery keeps going dead, it could be that the alternator isn't recharging it.

The alternator has to get its power from somewhere, and in vehicles with internal combustion engines, that power comes from a drive belt powered by the engine. Sometimes that belt can fail. If you hear a whining sound, it could mean bearings in the alternator aren't turning as freely as they used to. You could even notice a burning smell. Oh, and when you see your battery light illuminated on your dash (it looks like a rectangle with a - and + inside), it may be warning you that your alternator is not healthy.

Bring your vehicle in to us for a diagnosis if you notice any of these symptoms. If your alternator is bad, we can recommend a new or remanufactured one to replace it. Some new alternators are warranted for life and remanufactured units usually are guaranteed as well.

It's important to your vehicle's health to have its alternator putting out the right power consistently. It may not be as well known as the other power plant under the hood, but it's a vital part of helping your vehicle run the way it is designed to.

Contact Frosty's Today!

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic for JEFFERSON CITY: Spark Plugs

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:48:44 GMT

Question:

I’m confused about when I should get my spark plugs replaced. What’s the deal?

Answer:

Well it can be confusing because there are several types of spark plugs and some last longer than others. Your owner’s manual will have a recommendation for when your spark plugs should be changed.

Here’s a little background. Spark plugs are in the combustion chamber of your engine. They send a little spark between two electrodes at the end of the spark plug which ignites the gasoline. This little spark goes off thousands of times a minute. Over the miles, the electrodes on standard grade spark plugs wear away increasing the gap between them. When that happens, the spark isn’t as strong, and the fuel doesn’t burn as well.

As I mentioned above, there are several types or grades of spark plugs. The standard grade is copper core. They are great for quick starts and may last 12,000 to 13,000 miles.

Single platinum spark plugs use platinum on one of the electrodes. These typically last 30,000 to 60,000 miles and have improved ignitability and performance.

Double platinum plugs use platinum on both electrodes. This virtually eliminates gap erosion. They may last 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

Then there are the plugs that use iridium in their electrodes. These typically last over 100,000 miles. They are very durable and give premium performance and improved fuel economy.

Now you should always use at least the grade of spark plug that originally came on your vehicle. This makes sure that your spark plugs are up to delivering the performance and fuel economy your vehicle was designed for. Of course, you may upgrade your spark plugs for better durability and performance.

Talk with you service advisor about how you want your vehicle to perform and let him help you choose the spark plug that best suits your needs.

Give us a call.

Read The Original Article on the NAPA website.

The Heat is On (Hot Weather Vehicle Concerns) in Jefferson City, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 21:35:06 GMT

When the weather gets hot, some of the components of your vehicle are pushed to the limit. Here are a few things to watch out for as the mercury climbs higher:

Your vehicle's air conditioning (A/C) system. You might notice it's blowing only hot air, even though when you last had it on in the fall, it was working fine. All sorts of things can fail in an air conditioning system, from the blower motor to the condenser, a worn compressor, or simply a refrigerant leak. A/C diagnosis and repair requires a trained technician.
Tires. Heat is hard on tires. Rubber breaks down in sunlight and hot weather. Tire pressure climbs as the temperature climbs. A trained technician will check your pressure, tread depth, cupping and other uneven wear, and track down the cause. It may be time for some new ones.
Cooling system. It only makes sense that summer breakdowns are often caused by the vehicle overheating. Have us check your cooling system components, the coolant levels, the condition of your hoses, belts, and radiator.
Battery. You probably thought cold weather was tough your vehicle's battery. Heat is harder on it and will shorten the life of a battery more quickly than cold weather. Make sure to have your NAPA AutoCare Center can test your battery with their specialized equipment and see how much life it has left. Depending on your climate, batteries typically last three to six years. A regular battery test will help avoid being stranded by a dead one.

Brakes. Your safety depends on your brakes' stopping power, and during hot weather, they get even hotter than in other seasons. Have your brakes inspected periodically to make sure they're providing the stopping power they should.

One more thing. Engine oil is really taxed during hot weather. Your service advisor can make sure you have the right kind and amount of oil to keep your engine's components working in harmony throughout the blistering hot weather. The heat may be on, but you can be on top of it.

Read the original article on the NAPA Website.

Gasoline Direct Injection In Jefferson City, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 21 May 2025 17:07:24 GMT

Question:

My new car has a “GDI” engine. What does that mean to me and other JEFFERSON CITY, MO vehicles with this new type of engine?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

GDI stands for Gasoline Direct Injection. It's a type of fuel injection system that is becoming very popular on modern engines.

Let's talk about the two most common forms of fuel injection. Port Fuel Injection has been common in JEFFERSON CITY, MO vehicles for the last several decades.

With this type, there is a small port just outside the cylinder on the engine.

• The fuel injector squirts a bit of gas into this area just before the intake valve opens

• When the valve opens, air enters the port and mixes with the gas, then flows past the valve and into the engine

• The gas and air mixture is compressed by the piston

• The spark plug fires, igniting the gas which pushes against the piston, thus powering the engine

With Gasoline Direct Injection the process is a bit different.

• First, there is no port outside the cylinder

• When the intake valve opens, air is drawn into the cylinder

• The air is compressed by the piston

• At the correct time, the engine management computer signals the fuel injector to spray gasoline directly into the cylinder (hence, Gas Direct Injection)

• The pressurized gas and air are ignited by the spark plug, powering the engine

So why move to GDI? Well, by injecting the gas directly into the engine, the management computer is able to time the injection event more precisely. Also the gas sprayed directly into the engine cools the compressed air enough to allow for better combustion. This adds up to more power and better for a given engine size.

Now these two types of fuel delivery systems call for different kinds of fuel injectors. Port fuel injectors squirt their fuel at 40 to 65 pounds per square inch – that's like the pressure in a bicycle tire.

GDI injectors operate at over 2,000 pounds per square inch. Of course it's always important to keep your fuel injectors clean – but it's even more important for GDI injectors. When they become contaminated, the performance and fuel economy diminish.

Speaking of fuel system cleaning, different cleaners and cleaning processes are required for GDI engines. Intake valves get a fair amount of carbon build-up over time. With port injection, some gasoline flows over the valve when it opens to let in the gas and air. This has a cleaning effect which doesn't occur with GDI. So pouring a bottle of fuel system cleaner in your gas tank will not reach the backside of those intake valves. A professional fuel system cleaning process at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY, MO will take care of that concern for JEFFERSON CITY, MO drivers.

So GDI will continue to be more prevalent in MO on everything from compact cars to pick-up trucks. Ask your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor if your vehicle could benefit from a fuel system cleaning.

Give us a call.

Will Proper Auto Maintenance at Frosty Auto Clinic Really Save Gas in Jefferson City, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 14 May 2025 13:52:58 GMT

Have you ever thought about all the little things we do to keep our lives running smoothly - like vacuuming? It makes a room feel fresher and more comfortable. We may not consider that we're also prolonging the life of the carpet by keeping it clean. But JEFFERSON CITY, MO drivers don't always extend those good habits into the garage. Our vehicles need regular maintenance just like our rugs need vacuuming. We may not notice a difference in the feel or appearance of the vehicle, but just as cleaning a carpet carries the hidden reward of prolonging its life, maintaining our vehicles incurs a hidden reward that becomes noticeable at JEFFERSON CITY, MO gas stations.

When it comes to reduced fuel economy, there are two culprits: increased friction and inefficient fuel combustion. That means that anything JEFFERSON CITY, MO drivers can do to decrease friction and increase the efficiency of their engines will translate to savings on fuel. Friction increases the amount of energy it takes to move something. So if we can reduce friction, we can decrease the amount of fuel it takes to run our vehicles. Engine oil is usually at the heart of friction problems in an engine. Too little oil means parts are not getting lubricated, which increases friction and dirty oil doesn't lubricate as well as clean oil. So one secret to good fuel economy is to stay on top of oil changes. Don't skip them and don't procrastinate. The same auto advice applies to transmission fluid. Keep it full and keep it clean, and your vehicle will run with less friction and better .

If your tires are underinflated, it increases the friction between the tire and the road. Again, there is increased drag, and it takes more fuel to move your vehicle. People in JEFFERSON CITY, MO should check their tire pressure every month and keep their tires properly inflated.

Alignment and brake problems can also increase friction. Besides saving fuel, keeping these systems in good repair has the added benefit of saving you on tires and brake pads. These items wear out more quickly when the alignment is off or when the brake system isn't in good working order. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor.

The second culprit that stealthily steals our fuel economy is inefficient fuel combustion, which depends on the engine getting the right amount of clean fuel to the right place with the right pressure at the right time in the right pattern. The key to peak engine performance is to keep the fuel system clean. Varnish and gum can build up in a fuel system, which will interfere with the fuel injectors. The fuel injectors are responsible for all those “rights” we spoke of. If they're dirty, amounts, timing, pressure and spray patterns can all get out of whack. The result? Reduced fuel economy. A fuel system cleaning at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY, MO can get your injectors back on track, improving performance and efficiency.

There are a few other maintenance items that can improve your fuel economy. One is to replace your PCV valve when it gets sticky. This valve allows unburned fuel in your engine exhaust to return to the engine. JEFFERSON CITY, MO can also replace worn spark plugs and dirty fuel filters. A well-maintained vehicle will require fewer repairs and save money at JEFFERSON CITY, MO gas pumps.

Call us today!

PCV Valve Replacement at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 14 May 2025 13:46:36 GMT

The PCV valve is a little, inexpensive part that does a big job for JEFFERSON CITY, MO and our environment here in MO. PCV stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation. The crankcase is the bottom area of the engine that holds the oil. When the engine's running, fuel is burned to generate power. Most of the exhaust from combustion goes out through the exhaust system. But some exhaust blows by the pistons and goes into the lower engine, or crankcase.

These hot gases are about 70 percent unburned fuel. This can dilute and contaminate the oil, leading to damaging engine oil sludge. It can also cause engine corrosion. At high speeds, the pressure can build up to the point that gaskets and seals start to leak. Over time, the vented gases will gum up the PCV valve and it won't work well. That can lead to oil leaks, excessive oil consumption and reduced fuel economy.

Fortunately, it's very easy to test the PCV valve, and it's quick and inexpensive to replace at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY, MO. Even so, it's often overlooked because many JEFFERSON CITY, MO don't know about it. Check your owner's manual or ask your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic . If this is the first time you've heard of a PCV valve, you might be in line for a replacement.

Please ask us at Frosty Auto Clinic about your PCV valve. For the price of a couple of burger combo meals at your favorite JEFFERSON CITY, MO drive-up window, you can avoid some very expensive deep engine repairs.

Give us a call

Complete Guide to Timing Belt Services in Jefferson City, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:32:42 GMT

Let's address a very important maintenance item for everyone in JEFFERSON CITY MO – timing belt replacement. It's important because letting this one slide can lead to very expensive engine damage.

Your timing belt choreographs the timing of your combustion process. Your pistons travel up and down in the cylinder. Intake valves open at the right time to let in air and fuel; they close at the right time to allow the fuel to burn and then the exhaust valves open at the right time to let out the exhaust.

All this happens thousands of times a minute and it's your timing belt that makes sure the valves are opening and closing at precisely the right time. If the timing is off, your engine won't run. And that's the best case.

The worst case is that a valve is opening at the wrong time and collides with the piston. The result is bent valves and maybe even more damage to the cylinder head. Repairs can run several thousand dollars.

Now, timing belts just wear out naturally so you want to replace a worn belt before it slips or breaks. Check your owner's manual or with your service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY, MO, to see when they recommend you replace the timing belt. If you've never replaced your timing belt and have more than 60,000 miles/100,000 kilometers on the clock, talk with your JEFFERSON CITY service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic right away to see if you're due.

On some engines, the water pump is driven by the timing belt as opposed to the serpentine belt. If that's the case, it's a good idea to replace the water pump when you're replacing the timing belt and vice versa, since much of the same work has to be done for either. The same is true for the timing belt tensioner – it should be inspected and possibly replaced.

Now, replacing a timing belt is one of the more expensive routine maintenance items on your service schedule. But not replacing your timing belt can lead to some of the most expensive repairs you're likely to ever have.

Call Us Today.

Washington V. Lincoln: Tread Depth Champion In JEFFERSON CITY, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:54:01 GMT

Today's Frosty Auto Clinic article focuses on the effect of tire tread depth on braking. When JEFFERSON CITY, MO and drivers talk about stopping power, they tend to focus on their brakes. But our tires are where the rubber meets the road. We have to have tires with enough traction to translate braking power into stopping power.

Let's concentrate on stopping in wet conditions. In order for a tire to have good contact with the road, it has to move the water out of the way. If it can't move the water, the tire will actually ride on top of a thin film of water. That's called hydroplaning and it is a factor in many MO auto accidents. If it's really bad, you can actually spin out of control. At best, you won't stop as fast.

Your vehicle tires have channels for water to flow through. The deeper the channel, the more water it can move. A brand new tire has very deep channels and can easily move a lot of water. As the tire wears down, the channels become shallower and can move less water. When it wears down enough, it can seriously affect your ability to stop on wet MO roads.

That's why it's so important for JEFFERSON CITY, MO and motorists to replace their tires when they get worn. Consumer Reports and other advocate groups call for a standard of replacing tires when the tread is worn down to 4/32 of an inch. That's 3.2 millimeters. By comparison, you've probably seen the wear indicator that's molded into tires. When tires are worn to 3/32 of an inch, the tread wear bar is visible.

And that little bit of additional tread makes a big difference. Stopping distances are cut dramatically on wet JEFFERSON CITY, MO surface streets and highways. A safe stop from MO freeway speeds with 4/32 of an inch of tread would result in a crash with worn out tires.

There's an easy way to tell when a tire's worn to 4/32 of an inch. Just insert a quarter into the tread. Put it in upside down. If the tread doesn't cover George Washington's hairline, it's time to replace your tires. With a Canadian quarter, the tread should cover the numbers in the year stamp.

You've probably heard of this technique using a penny and Abe Lincoln's head. That measure gives you 2/32 of an inch – half the suggested amount. And if you have uneven tread wear, have us check it out at Frosty Auto Clinic. It could be a problem with your steering or suspension components or a wheel alignment problem.

If you need new tires or have any concerns about your brakes, give us a call today at 573-635-1767.

Car Dashboard Warnings: What They Mean for Jefferson City, MO Drivers

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 13:31:29 GMT

Ever wonder where they came up with the term "dashboard" for that part of your vehicle that sits behind the steering wheel?

That name began back before cars were even invented. People used to travel by horse and buggy, and streets weren't as well built as they are today. On a muddy road (which was sometimes just a couple of ruts alongside a field), it wasn't unusual for those inside the buggy to have mud and stones "dashed" (knocked, thrown, or hurled) in their direction.

So those who built carriages began installing a board to protect them. That became known as the dashboard. The word carriage got shortened to car, and the dashboard is sometimes shortened to dash. Today, the dashboard sits behind and below the windshield that houses various controls and instruments.

In addition to the speedometer, tachometer, and gas gauge, there are warning lights you need to pay attention to on your dashboard and instrument panel. (You may have gauges for some of these, but it's still important for you to keep an eye on them.) Here are some examples:

Oil pressure — This lets you know if you have had a drop in oil pressure in your engine. Low oil pressure means your engine parts aren't getting lubricated as they should, and this can cause serious damage. Call your service advisor immediately; you may damage your vehicle if you drive it in this condition any further.

Check Engine light — If you see this one (it usually looks like an engine), it means one or more sensors in your vehicle has detected an abnormal situation. Again, you should have this checked out as soon as possible. A technician at your service facility can read a code stored in your vehicle that will point towards the issue. If the Check Engine Light is flashing, there is something wrong that could lead to serious damage – so get it checked out right away.

Brake light — If this is illuminated, your parking brake may be on, or there may be a more serious problem like low brake fluid or hydraulic system issues. Check your parking brake and if it isn't on and the light is, make sure to get it checked asap.

Tire pressure — Newer vehicles have tire pressure monitors (TPMS) built in that will tell you if any of your tires are over or underinflated. Both conditions need to be checked out. If the TPMS light is flashing, the system itself needs attention.

Of course, there a many more warning lights. You should get your vehicle checked as so as you can. Here are some critical warning lights for which it is recommended that you have your vehicle towed to your AutoCare Canter: Oil Light, Temp(erature) Light, Charging (Batt) Light, and Brake Light if pedal performance is low. These warning lights indicate a condition which could cause serious engine damage, leave you stranded, or with unsafe brakes.

Things were sure simpler back in the horse and carriage days, but it's a good thing today's dashboard can tell you all these things about your complicated vehicle.

We at NAPA AutoCare want to make sure your driving experience is trouble- and worry-free.

Consult us for all of your vehicle maintenance and repair needs.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Emissions Test in Jefferson City, MO – Why Your Vehicle Might Fail

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:46:56 GMT

Clean air quality is something that helps all of us thrive here on Planet Earth. And considering that motor vehicles are a contributor to air pollution, emissions tests in the U.S. and Canada are in place to keep vehicles from needlessly spewing dangerous gases into the air.

While laws vary from place to place, the goal of an emissions test is the same: to make sure toxic gases are kept at a minimum. They often measure nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and hydrocarbons. Fail the test, and you may not be allowed to drive that vehicle on the road until it's rectified.

Keeping your vehicle maintained is the best way to make sure you can pass an emissions test. Here are a few things that could be wrong with your vehicle that might result in it failing that emissions test.

The mixture of fuel and air in your engine is heavy on the fuel. That can cause issues with the catalytic converter that is intended to keep emissions to a minimum.

Your gas cap is leaking. This may trigger your Check Engine light.

Your spark plugs are past their useful life. They can cause emissions gases to spike.

Your EVAP system is leaking. This is a closed system that prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the air. Figuring out where the problem is can be tricky.

The best way to pass an emissions test is to keep all these components in top shape. Your NAPA AutoCare Center can regularly inspect and maintain these systems to help ensure that your vehicle gets a passing grade, and this generation will keep passing on clean air to future generations.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Car Diagnostic Services in Jefferson City, MO – What to Expect

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:45:17 GMT

Imagine waking up one morning with a stomachache. You pick up the phone, call the doctor’s office and say, “I’ve got a really bad tummy ache. How much will it cost to make me feel better?” Of course, you wouldn’t do that. You know that there could be a lot of reasons for your symptoms and that the doctor will have to examine you, ask some questions, and probably run some tests before she can tell you what’s wrong and give you treatment options.

This same scenario plays every day at auto repair facilities. When the cause of the concern isn’t obvious, the vehicle will need to undergo a diagnostic process. The typical vehicle has about 30,000 parts, including several networked computers and miles of wiring. Finding exactly what is wrong can be very complicated and take some time. The most experienced technicians at the shop are the ones that tackle the difficult diagnostic jobs. Once they have determined the cause of the problem, they can work out the plan for how to fix it and tell you how much it will cost.

When you look at it this way, it makes perfect sense that, 1) the Service Advisor cannot provide an estimate before the diagnosis is done, and 2) there is a charge for diagnostic services. You expect to pay for an office visit to the doctor and for any needed tests before you can be presented with your treatment options and costs; same goes for your vehicle.

We know it can be frustrating when something is wrong with your car and you aren’t sure what is going to be involved in getting it fixed. We’ll do everything we can to help you through the process; communicating with you at each step along the way. We have highly trained diagnostic technicians and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to uncover the cause of your problems. We use quality replacement parts to help make sure you stay on the road after the repair is done. That’s our prescription for automotive peace of mind.

Give us a call .

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Rear & Front Differential Service in Jefferson City, MO

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:53:18 GMT

When JEFFERSON CITY, MO drivers take a corner in their vehicle, the outside wheels have a slightly longer distance to go than the inside wheels. That means that the outside wheels have to turn a bit faster than the inside. The piece of mechanical wizardry that makes this possible for is called the differential.

The differential allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds in turns without the wheel binding or hopping. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is on the rear axle. You've seen that bulge in the middle of the axle when you're behind a truck; that's the differential.

If you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, the differential function is handled by your transaxle . Of course, all-wheel drive vehicles have differentials on both axles. They also have a center differential or a transfer case between the front and rear axles to compensate for speed differences between the front and rear.

Because all the power of the engine is transferred through the various differentials, you can imagine that they are very strong and are built last a long time. That's why it's important for JEFFERSON CITY drivers to keep their differential properly lubricated. Differential fluid cools and protects the gears.

Your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic technician will check differential fluid level and top it off if necessary. With low fluid, the differential will run too hot and wear prematurely. Ask your service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic ((523) 635-1767) when it's recommended to change your differential fluid. Fresh fluid will extend the life of your differential. Your technician will also inspect the u-joints which connect your drive shaft to the differential and may recommend service. Some u-joints can be lubricated as part of a routine Frosty Auto Clinic lube, oil and filter change as well.

JEFFERSON CITY, MO drivers need to know that differentials eventually wear out and need to be replaced. You might notice a strange noise from your axle area as one of the first warning signs. When the differential shows signs of failing, it's time to repair it. MO residents who leave it too long run the risk of it freezing up when they're driving and could lose control of the vehicle. Plus, other parts like the axle, driveshaft and transmission could be damaged.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Transmission

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:16:10 GMT

Let's talk about your transmission.

Transmissions are heavy duty pieces of equipment that are designed to last a long time for most JEFFERSON CITY drivers. But like any other machine, they'll eventually wear out and need repair. So let's focus on what you can do to push that day off as far as possible.

The first thing you can do is to make sure your transmission always has enough fluid. Transmission fluid cools and lubricates the transmission. When there's not enough fluid, the transmission will run hotter and wear out sooner.

The transmission fluid also provides the pressure needed to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Not enough fluid, and your transmission won't shift properly.

Your JEFFERSON CITY service center will check your transmission fluid level with a full service oil change and top it off if needed. If you see any transmission fluid on the driveway – it's a reddish color – have us inspect it for a leak. A gasket, hose or seal could be leaking and may need to be repaired.

The next thing you can do to prolong the life of your JEFFERSON CITY transmission is to replace your transmission fluid on schedule. As you can imagine, all those gears grinding on each other result in lots of little bits of metal in the fluid. The more there is, the faster the transmission parts will wear out.

Transmission fluid also contains detergents and other additives to protect your transmission. These additives are depleted over time, so old fluid doesn't protect as well as new fluid. Your owner's manual or Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor will have a recommendation for when you should have a transmission service.

If your transmission isn't shifting as smoothly as it should, or if you suspect a transmission leak, let Frosty Auto Clinic take a look at it. And ask if it's time for a transmission service. Regular maintenance and taking care of small leaks right away will help your transmission last as long as possible.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Deciphering the Menu Board: A to Z

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:35:13 GMT

You may not be familiar with all of the items on your JEFFERSON CITY auto service center's menu board so here is a quick description of some of the typical services that might be listed. Remember, the board is there for reference; speak to your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor about other possible needs or services.

Frosty Auto Clinic fuel system cleaning: Over time, the fuel system gets gum and varnish built up. A fuel system cleaning gets rid of that and cleans out the fuel injectors. Saves gas, by the way.

Headlamp replacement: Halogen and standard headlamps gradually fade. When one burns out, replace both so they'll have the same brightness. Also, if your headlamp lenses are yellowed or cloudy, you can have them professionally restored to like new-condition.

Inspections: JEFFERSON CITY residents get inspections for many reasons. Maybe they're going on a trip or just want to make sure their vehicle's ready for summer or winter. Maybe they just bought a used car and want to give it the once over. An inspection may reveal some things that are broken or are getting close to having a problem.

Frosty Auto Clinic oil change – there are several options: Some JEFFERSON CITY auto centers offer just an oil change and new filter as an option. Most will also check and top off all of your other fluids and do a quick visual inspection with a full service oil change. There may also be options for higher mileage fluids or an upgrade to synthetic oil.

PCV valve: PCV stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve. It's a little part that releases pressure from the vehicle engine. It can get gummed up and that can lead to engine damage. Just needs to be changed now and then.

Frosty Auto Clinic power steering service: Often overlooked. Your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic will evacuate the old fluid, clean out the system and replace it with clean fluid. Keeps the system running well for a long time.

Serpentine belt: That's the belt that powers the vehicle engine's accessories like the alternator, air conditioner, power steering and brakes. We'll want to replace the serpentine belt before it breaks or wears down too much, because that'll lead to other service issues.

Shocks and struts: This starts with an inspection of the suspension components. Shocks last a long time and wear out slowly, so many JEFFERSON CITY residents don't notice when it's time to change them. If they're worn or leaking, they need to be replaced.

Frosty Auto Clinic transmission service: This involves removing the transmission fluid and replacing it with clean fluid. It's like an oil change for your transmission.

Tire rotation and wheel balancing: The tires are rotated from front to back using the recommended rotation pattern. This helps tires wear more evenly. Wheels need to be balanced from time to time to keep them turning without any wobble or bounce. Helps the ride and saves tire wear.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA Website .

No Fueling Around (Fuel Filter Replacement)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 16:46:22 GMT

A driver called in to the shop the other day saying his European sports sedan had an odd problem. He was driving when his car started to slow down. Applying more throttle didn't help. He pulled over to the side of the road, shut the engine off and waited a few minutes before starting it up again. It ran fine… for a couple of minutes. Then the same thing happened. He was able to finally get home by stopping and restarting, and he was calling to see if we could take a look at it.

Turned out it was one of his car's fuel filters that choked up with debris so badly that enough fuel couldn't get through it. When he stopped the car, enough fuel could flow through the unpressurized fuel line to supply enough fuel for a couple of minutes when he restarted his car. But then the pressure would cause things to clog again.

There are other symptoms that point to a failing fuel filter. Perhaps your engine misfires, your vehicle is hard to start, or your fuel pump starts making odd noises.

If you experience any of these signs, bring your vehicle in so we can have a technician check it out.

Many vehicles have at least two fuel filters. One is a strainer that is part of the fuel pump in the fuel tank, and the other is in the main fuel line. Your vehicle's manufacturer recommends how often yours should be changed, but your driving habits and environment (such as dirty or dusty conditions) may mean yours will have to be replaced more often.

The technician will also look to see if your vehicle might have another problem that's causing your fuel filter to fail more frequently than normal, such as corrosion in the fuel tank.

Your engine needs fuel to run. Maintain the health of your fuel system and that will help keep you on the road to your destination.

Read the original article on the NAPA Website .

Frosty Auto Clinic

310 VETERANS LN

JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65101

(523) 635-1767

Heater Core

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 18:36:49 GMT

JEFFERSON CITY drivers may wonder where the air in a vehicle's passenger compartment comes from. Well, as your engine starts to warm up, it also warms the coolant/antifreeze that circulates around the engine and through the radiator. There is also a hose that carries coolant/antifreeze from the engine to the heater core and another that takes it back into the engine. The heater core looks like a little radiator and lives in the air blend box behind the dashboard.

When you turn on the heat, air blows over the heater core, is warmed, and comes into the cabin. Some vehicles have a heater valve that moves coolant through the heater core when the heat is on and bypasses the heater core when the heat is off. In other vehicles, the temperature of the air is controlled within the air blend box by how much air is directed over the heater core.

The engine cooling system, in a larger sense, also encompasses the heater core. Things that adversely affect, say, your radiator will also harm your heater core. The coolant/antifreeze contains corrosion inhibitors that coat the surfaces inside the cooling system, including the heater core. When the corrosion inhibitors are depleted, the cooling system can become corroded, filled with contaminants and may even start to leak.

There are several signs that warn of a leaky heater core: First you may a sweet smell from your vents. This is coolant leaking out and getting into the air. You may even see vapor coming out the vents and notice a film building up inside the windows. Of course, breathing coolant vapors is bad for you.

You may also see coolant on the driveway. Depending on the design of your vehicle, you may even get coolant leaking out into the foot wells of the cabin.

Coolant/antifreeze leaking out through the heater core means that the overall coolant level in the system will be low and the engine is in danger of overheating – which is the cause of mechanical breakdown.

The good news is that the things you do to protect your cooling system also protect your heater core. Changing your coolant/antifreeze as directed by your owner's manual or upon the advice of your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor will help ensure your coolant has enough corrosion inhibitors working to protect this system. Also, quickly repairing any leaks and inspecting hoses for signs of internal breakdown will help keep any from becoming an emergency.

Make sure you consult with your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor about when your cooling system should be serviced.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Tech Question On Your Battery

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 20:59:26 GMT

Frosty Auto Clinic Tech Question:

I'm David in JEFFERSON CITY, MO. For the last year and a half I've had some battery problems. I had trouble starting my car so I bought a new battery at a parts store in JEFFERSON CITY. At first everything was fine, then about six months later I had problems starting my car again, so I got a new battery. Again, everything was fine for another five or six months then I had trouble starting my car again. I went to get another battery and the parts guy said why do you need another battery, weren't you in a few months ago? So he tested my battery and it was OK. Apparently I've been replacing good batteries. What's wrong with my vehicle?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

Look, we can't fault David for not knowing what's wrong with his vehicle – he just didn't have enough information. And frankly, neither do I.

Let's talk about where our friend went wrong and what he could have done. First, he was right to suspect his battery . But if he had asked to have his vehicle battery tested when he first went to the auto parts store, he would have found out that his battery was still good and would have known he needed to take his car into Frosty Auto Clinic for further diagnosis.

There could be any number of reasons his car wouldn't start. Unfortunately, he had a year and a half of unnecessary expense and inconvenience and still doesn't know what's wrong. When you find yourself in a situation like David, do yourself a favor and talk to a professional at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY. Your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor can get you on the right track.

Give us a call

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Extend The Life Of Your Cooling System In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 22:20:41 GMT

Our vehicles operate in a wide range of outside JEFFERSON CITY temperatures. That's why use testing grounds from the frozen tundra to the blistering desert. Your vehicle engine antifreeze/coolant must be able to perform in these extreme temperatures.

Antifreeze/coolant has to move heat away from the engine to prevent costly damage. Water does a very good job of holding heat, but it freezes at 32 degrees F, 0 degrees C.

That's why we mix anti-freeze with water – it lowers the freezing point of the antifreeze/coolant and raises the boiling point as well. A 50/50 blend of water and antifreeze/coolant is the usual recommendation for MO .

And on top of that, antifreeze/coolant has to protect the components of the vehicle cooling system from corrosion. Your owner's manual will tell you what kind of antifreeze/coolant you should use. Of course at Frosty Auto Clinic, we can advise you on what to put in your vehicle.

Cooling system failure is the most common mechanical problem JEFFERSON CITY residents have. Much of that can be avoided by following factory scheduled service intervals. Check your vehicle owner's manual or ask your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor for recommendations. He can also conduct a cooling system inspection to look for leaks, weak hoses or bad connections.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Severe Driving in JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 15:57:41 GMT

Owner's manuals have schedules for preventive maintenance. JEFFERSON CITY can check on things like oil changes, transmission service and so on. They say you should change your oil after driving a certain distance or after so many months. JEFFERSON CITY drivers understand this very well. What they may not know is that there are actually two service schedules: the regular schedule and the severe service schedule. The distance and time intervals are lower on the severe service schedule.

Now when you hear “severe service”, you may think it doesn't apply to you because you don't feel your driving conditions are severe or extreme – it's just normal everyday driving. So let's list some of the conditions that classify as severe so that JEFFERSON CITY drivers can make the judgment on their own driving.

• Most trips are less than four miles (six kilometers)

• Most trips are less than nine miles/fifteen kilometers and outside JEFFERSON CITY temperatures are below freezing

• You drive in very hot weather in MO

• Driving at low speed most of the time around the JEFFERSON CITY area (under 55 mph/90 kph)

• Stop and go driving

• Operating your vehicle in dusty, polluted or muddy JEFFERSON CITY conditions

• You tow a trailer, regularly carry heavy loads or carry a car-top carrier

Most of us JEFFERSON CITY operate under severe driving conditions at least some of the time. How do we know which car maintenance schedule to follow?

Carefully think about your driving conditions and decide if you should do your preventive maintenance closer to the severe service recommendation or the regular recommendation. Of course, your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic can help you with your decision.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

What's A Serpentine Belt?

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:16:06 GMT

We all have those days when we’ve got a bunch of errands to run. Suppose on your day off and you need to get gas, pick up some groceries, swing by the ATM and get the kids from school. Now you could make four trips, but that would be a waste of time and money – totally inefficient. Instead you get organized and hit the ATM first and get some gas next. Then you go to the supermarket and pick up the kids on the way home. Way better use of your time.

Now you may wonder what this has to do with your car. Well, back in the day, each of your engine’s accessories, like the alternator and air conditioner, were powered by separate belts. A vehicle might have 5 or 6 belts. These days, vehicles have a single belt to run all the accessories. It’s called the serpentine belt because it snakes around everything, efficiently connecting the accessories – like bundling your errands.

A pulley attached to the engine’s crank provides the power to turn the serpentine belt. The belt may provide the power for the power steering pump, which makes it easier to steer your vehicle. Next comes the alternator which generates electricity to run the vehicle’s electrical system and charge the battery. On to the air conditioning compressor. This helps make cold air to keep you comfortable all summer long.

On some vehicles the water pump or radiator fan or the power brakes are also run by the serpentine belt. Some even have two serpentine belts. No matter how your engine is arranged, you aren’t going far without a serpentine belt. Your manufacturer has a recommended interval for inspecting your belt and your service technician can inspect it for damage or wear.

Finally, there is the belt tensioner. Its job is to apply pressure on the belt to keep it tight.

Several years ago, they started making serpentine belts out of a new material. It’s much more durable, but it’s harder to tell when the belt needs to be replaced. The old-style belts would crack, and chunks would fall off so you could easily see when you needed a new one.

On the new style belts, if the ribs wear too deep, it’s time to replace. Your technician uses a simple gauge to tell when the belt is worn. A worn belt stresses your engine’s expensive accessories and causes them to wear prematurely.

So, change your serpentine belt and belt tensioner as recommended to extend the life of your accessories and to prevent future breakdowns.

Give us a call

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Don't Blow a Gasket! (Valve Cover Gasket Replacement)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 16:31:36 GMT

When you head out to your vehicle after it's been parked and notice oil leaking underneath it, that's something to have looked at right away. Oil leaks mean your oil level is probably low, and running a vehicle in that condition can lead to expensive repairs.

While there are many reasons oil leaks develop, one possibility is a bad valve cover gasket. Vehicle engines have a cover bolted over the spot where the engine valves are, and that cover keeps the oil inside the engine. In between the cover and the engine is a gasket that keeps that seal tight. But after many years of high engine temperatures and vibrations, that gasket or the bolts that hold on the valve cover can fail or loosen, and oil can leak.

You may see dirty oil on the valve cover in the engine compartment, near the spark plugs, or around the bolts that hold the valve cover on. All those are signs of leakage and time to bring your vehicle in for our technicians to check out.

In some vehicles, taking off the valve cover and replacing the gasket is a relatively easy job. In some models, though, other engine parts are located near that part of the engine and must be removed to get at the gasket, so repair costs can vary widely.

The technician will measure to make sure the valve cover isn't warped so it can be reused. If it is warped, they'll recommend replacing it with the gasket.

While the technician has that area of your engine accessible, they will also check to see if other components need replacing at the same time, which could save you money. And because valve cover gaskets usually fail in older vehicles, the technician will check for other oil leaks then, too.

One of the best ways to be sure your valve cover is doing its job is to have your vehicle regularly maintained. The technician will periodically look over your engine compartment and make sure you know when things are showing signs of age and wear BEFORE they fail and leave you stranded.

Call us today!

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Exhaust Service at Frosty Auto Clinic

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:20:08 GMT

Driving around JEFFERSON CITY, we've all heard a car or truck that needs a new muffler. But there's more to the exhaust system than just the muffler. The exhaust system has three main functions:

Safely get hot exhaust gas from the engine out the tailpipe
Treat the exhaust to remove harmful pollutants
Muffle the engine noise

Exhaust gas is poisonous. JEFFERSON CITY residents don't want it getting into their passenger compartments. For example, carbon monoxide can be deadly. That's why you should never run your engine in a closed garage. If you have a leak somewhere in the exhaust system, exhaust could get into the passenger cabin and make you sick or even kill you.

If you smell exhaust in the vehicle, roll down your windows and get it inspected at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY. You may smell or see exhaust coming from the engine compartment or under the vehicle if you have a leak. Sometimes the sound from an exhaust leak is loud and obvious. Sometimes it's a ticking sound when you start the engine that goes away as you drive. That could be a small crack or a bad fitting that leaks when it's cold but seals up when the metal heats and expands.

Now, let's address the environmental issues. Exhaust gas contains a number of pollutants and particulates. The catalytic converter scrubs some of those harmful substances. And diesel vehicles have systems to deal with soot. Catalytic converters eventually wear out and need to be replaced. They're expensive so you want to help them last as long as possible by keeping the fuel system clean and replacing your air filter. These components need to be tested for proper functioning with an emissions test from time to time. And that leaves the muffler.

The beauty of getting a new muffler is that you can suit your taste: Some JEFFERSON CITY want whisper quiet and others like a little rumble. And some JEFFERSON CITY like a roar.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Diesel Engines

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:18:10 GMT

When someone mentions diesels – images of smoky, rattley trucks may spring to mind. The fact is that the modern clean diesel engine is much more refined than in the old days. Sure, diesel engines remain a very popular choice with heavy duty pick-up trucks, but they are finding their way into nearly every segment of the automotive market. Why is that?

Well, its science. Diesel fuel contains more energy than the same amount of gasoline. So, it takes less diesel fuel to do the same amount of work as gas – so you get more miles per gallon and lower emissions. In Europe, where fuel is very expensive and high mileage is very important, around half of passenger vehicles are powered by diesel engines. This goes for small economy cars all the way up to the world’s most expensive luxury vehicles.

The driving experience is also very good with diesel engines – in fact you may not even be able to tell the difference between riding in or driving a diesel-powered vehicle. So, what are the factors to consider when deciding whether to choose a diesel engine?

One consideration is price. Diesel engines cost more to build and are an extra cost option for most vehicles. So, you need to do the math to see how long it will take the increased fuel economy to pay for the extra up-front cost of a diesel engine. The cost of diesel fuel is also a factor. There is no clear correlation between gas prices and diesel prices because the refining and distribution systems are so different. This means that the difference in price per gallon for diesel and gasoline can vary a great deal depending on where you live. Just watch diesel and gas prices for a while (or talk with a diesel owner) so you can get a feel for how much price per gallon figures into your purchase decision.

Also important to your decision to purchase a diesel is your expected use of the vehicle. For example, if you tow heavy trailers or haul heavy loads, the extra power many diesel engines offer (while getting better mileage than a gas engine) may sway your decision. Your highway/city driving mix may play into the decision as well. Diesels shine in the highway mileage department. And the more you drive in a year, the more attractive diesel engines become.

If a diesel engine is for you, remember that it still requires maintenance like your gas-powered vehicles always have. Oil changes, cooling system service, power steering, brakes, tires, etc. – all need to be maintained. Some of the schedules may be different because of the unique design of diesel engines. Your service advisor will be able to help you properly maintain your diesel vehicle, helping it last longer and continue to deliver great performance and fuel economy.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Severe Driving In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:15:43 GMT

Most JEFFERSON CITY motorists know that their owner's manuals have schedules for vehicle maintenance. What they may not know is that there are actually two service schedules: the regular schedule and the severe service schedule. The distance and time intervals are lower on the severe service schedule.

Now when you hear “severe service”, you may think it doesn't apply to you because you don't feel your driving conditions are severe or extreme – it's just normal everyday driving around JEFFERSON CITY. At Frosty Auto Clinic, we discuss the conditions that manufacturers classify as severe so that you can make the judgment on your own driving.

Most trips are less than four miles (six kilometers)
Most trips are less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) and outside temperatures are below freezing in JEFFERSON CITY
You drive in very hot MO weather
Driving at low speed most of the time (under 55 mph/90kph)
Stop and go driving
Operating your vehicle in dusty, polluted or muddy conditions
You tow a trailer, regularly carry heavy loads or carry a car-top carrier on your vehicle

Most JEFFERSON CITY drivers operate under severe driving conditions at least some of the time. How do you know which schedule to follow for your vehicle?

Carefully think about your driving conditions and decide if you should do your preventive maintenance closer to the severe service recommendation or the regular recommendation. Of course, your Frosty Auto Clinic advisor can help you with your decision.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Fuel Saving Tip: Myths

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:12:22 GMT

With high fuel prices comes lots of gas saving advice. Some of it, like what you hear on AutoNetTV, is great. Some is myth. And some is just designed to prey on people desperate to save some money on gas.

When you get one of those e-mails that’s going around telling you how to save gas, try to think it through. Does it really make sense? Does it defy the laws of physics? Do some research on the internet or ask your service advisor.

There aren’t any magic pills you can drop in your gas tank and the government hasn’t suppressed a device you can clamp on your fuel line to make your car run on air.

So next time you get one of those e-mails, check it out with an automotive professional. You’ll get more bang for your buck with an oil change or an engine air filter replacement.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Don't Store These in a Cold Vehicle (Items to Avoid Storing in a Freezing Vehicle)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:50:23 GMT

The other day, a man walked into a restaurant carrying a can of paint. He had just bought the latex paint at the local home improvement store, and he was stopping for lunch.

"Latex paint is water-based, and it's so cold out. If I leave it out in my truck while I'm eating, it'll be frozen by the time I'm done with lunch."

Yes, latex paint is one thing you should never leave out in your vehicle during freezing weather, since the cold can make it separate and clump up, turning it into a gloppy mess that won't go smoothly on your walls.

There are a few other things you should not leave in your freezing vehicle. Medicines and drugs can change chemically if they freeze, especially those in liquid forms like insulin, eye drops, and cough syrup.

It can be tempting to leave bottled water in the cup holders. The problem comes when bottled water freezes and expands. That can fracture the plastic. When things thaw out, guess where the water goes?

Ditto for soda or other beverages. Cans and bottles can freeze and burst. Then you're in for a mess!

Don't leave your cellphones or computers in a frozen vehicle. Many use lithium ion batteries and charging them at temperatures below freezing can ruin them.

And finally, if someone in your family plays a musical instrument, it's not a good idea to leave it in freezing temperatures. The most significant danger, believe it or not, may be when you try to warm an instrument up too fast; it can crack the wood in a guitar, for example. Or, if you let a wind instrument freeze that still has moisture inside it, the resulting ice can cause damage to the pads and keys.

Take the time to take these things inside. The little extra time it takes may help you avoid many big headaches later. Remember to take your vehicle in to your NAPA AutoCare Center for an inspection in late fall to make sure it's up to the demands of the coming winter.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Battery Maintenance

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 18:34:58 GMT

Frosty Auto Clinic's Guide To Battery Maintenance

Eventually your car battery will fail, and you will need to replace it. In fact, 70% don’t even make it four years. There is something you can do to make yours last a little longer.

It’s all about the flow of electrical power. When you start your vehicle, the battery uses power to get your engine cranking. As your engine runs, your alternator generates electricity to run all your electrical systems: like lights, a half dozen computers, anti-lock brake system, traction control, power windows, electronic fuel injectors, stability control, air conditioning, transmission servos – the list goes on. Any leftover electricity goes to recharge your battery. Then you turn on your radio and seat heaters; maybe plug in your cell phone and computer; the kids watch a DVD and soon there isn’t much extra electricity to go back into the battery.

Now, if you were on a long road trip, no sweat – you’d have plenty of time to fully recharge your battery. But not if you’re making stops around town. Every time you start the engine, your battery takes that big hit again. Multiple starts – multiple hits. By the time you get home, you have less than a full charge.

When the battery is continuously in a discharged state, it loses its ability to fully recharge. This starts a downward spiral in your battery life.

Now when your battery is on its way to getting this bad, your alternator is working overtime trying to keep it charged – which causes the alternator to wear out prematurely. A lot of experienced technicians suggest replacing your battery after five years, even though it hasn’t yet failed, as a maintenance item to extend alternator life.

Now, there is something you can do to help your battery last longer by hooking up a battery charger once a month in the summer and every three months in winter. This will ensure your battery routinely has a full charge. You can do this less often in the winter because the electrochemical process slows down when it’s colder and less damage is done when your battery is low. Computerized battery chargers are easy to use because they monitor and control the charging rate to keep the battery from overheating while it’s charging.

Ask your service advisor to test your battery so you know how much life is left. If it’s good but needs a maintenance service, he’ll have it cleaned up and make sure the connections and cables are good. If it’s looking like you ought to replace it, he’ll help you with a battery that’s right for your vehicle and driving needs.

Give us a call

Frosty Auto Clinic

310 VETERANS LN

JEFFERSON CITY, MO 65101

(523) 635-1767

Evaporative Emissions Control

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 17:06:45 GMT

The oil and fuel in your vehicle give off vapors that are very harmful to the environment. Evaporative emissions control systems – EVAP for short – are mandated in all cars and trucks. The EVAP system is there to capture these vapors and direct them into the engine to be burned – kind of an on-board recycling program.

The EVAP system is a complicated network of hoses, valves, filters and such. Issues with the EVAP system are in the top 5 reasons for a Check Engine light to be illuminated. Your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor can pull the trouble codes and begin a diagnostic procedure to isolate the fault.

With the proper equipment, your technician can test the valves in order to trace a blockage. A low pressure smoke test can be performed to find any leaks. The repairs are then made to get the EVAP system working again and to reset the Check Engine light.

While EVAP problems don't generally lead to vehicle damage, the fact that they trigger the Check Engine light can mask other more problems for JEFFERSON CITY residents if left unaddressed. After all, there are hundreds of conditions that can trigger a Check Engine light, but there is only one light. So if the light is on because of an EVAP issue you haven't fixed and another arises, you won't be alerted to the new condition because the light is already on.

Of course, if you live in a jurisdiction in MO that requires emissions testing to register your vehicle, you won't pass the test until you make the repairs. An EVAP trouble code could be caused by something as simple as a loose or worn gas cap, a leak in a hose, problems with a purge valve or even a rusty fuel filler pipe.

When your Check Engine light comes on, bring your vehicle into Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY and let us check it out. Your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor will be able to diagnose the system and work out a plan to address any problems that are uncovered. There's peace of mind for JEFFERSON CITY drivers that comes from knowing what is wrong and taking care of it.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic for JEFFERSON CITY: High Mileage Vehicles

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 19:09:57 GMT

Question:

What do I need to do for my high mileage vehicle?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

JEFFERSON CITY drivers ask this question at Frosty Auto Clinic a lot more these days. The median age for vehicles on MO roads is now over 11 years. Regardless of your reason for keeping your vehicle around, the good news for JEFFERSON CITY drivers is that it's capable of going 150,000 to 200,000 miles (or 250,000 to 3500,000 kilometers) or more with proper care and professional automotive service at Frosty Auto Clinic.

Here are some tips from Frosty Auto Clinic on how to make your car last :

First, JEFFERSON CITY drivers should follow all of their regularly scheduled maintenance routines. Things like oil changes, transmission and cooling system service are for avoiding damage. This reduces your overall cost for keeping your vehicle for a long time.

Next, regular inspections are critical for JEFFERSON CITY drivers. Look, those parts are starting to get old and will become worn out the more you drive. Thorough inspections of various systems will uncover things that are nearing the end of their service life, like suspension, brake and steering components. Replacing worn parts early not only prevents breakdowns but relieves stress on related components so they will last longer as well.

Another thing for JEFFERSON CITY drivers to consider is the use of special high mileage fluid formulations. For example, high mileage engine oil has special additives that condition those old seals and gaskets. It also has extra detergents to help keep that older vehicle engine clean inside. High mileage oil, transmission fluid, etc., costs a little more but can really head off some of the problems that are typical of older vehicles around MO.

One last thing for JEFFERSON CITY drivers would be to consult with your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Frosty Auto Clinic about the overall condition of your vehicle and your driving routines. It may be advisable to follow your vehicle's severe service schedule.

Even with the occasional unexpected repair associated with an older vehicle, you can still enjoy good, reliable transportation if you take good care of your ride.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

U and your U-Joints (Lubricate U-Joints)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:16:01 GMT

If your vehicle’s power goes to the rear wheels, then you have something called U-joints in the drivetrain. U-joints are connectors that allow the rotating power from your vehicle’s engine to deliver its power through a driveshaft to make the rear wheels rotate. You need U-joints because the surfaces you drive on aren’t perfectly flat, and the driveshaft has to allow for some flexibility when you are traveling over uneven surfaces.

As you can imagine, the U-joints have to move and flex a lot as your vehicle is going down the road. They have bearings in them to allow that flexibility, and those bearings are lubricated when your vehicle is made. Some U-joints have lifetime lubrication and are not designed to be serviced. When they fail, they have to be replaced. Others have grease fittings on them that need periodic lubricating by a technician at intervals recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

There are signs you can look for that your U-joints need attention. You may hear a clunk when the gears shift into drive or reverse. You may feel your vehicle vibrate as you move down the road. Other signs are leaks at the back of your transmission or a banging sound right before you lose power. Sometimes, though, if you wait until you notice these symptoms, the U-joints may already be damaged.

That’s why it’s important that your vehicle’s U-joints be periodically inspected and lubricated. At the same time, a technician should thoroughly inspect the driveshaft and other connected components.

Keep your U-joints in good shape, and both of U will continue to enjoy years of reliable transportation.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Serpentine Belt

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 16:18:47 GMT

Your serpentine belt is powered by the engine as it turns. Your alternator, air conditioning compressor and power steering pump depend on your serpentine belt to run. On some vehicles it also runs the water pump, radiator fan and power brakes.

If your serpentine belt breaks, your battery won't last long. If it runs your fan or water pump, your engine could overheat before your battery dies. Steering and braking would also be affected. Hopefully, we've made a good case for replacing your vehicle's serpentine belt when it's worn out.

Your owner's manual will advise you when to replace your serpentine belt. Your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic can inspect the belt as well to determine if it's close to failure.

You may have heard that it's a good idea to check for cracks in your belt to see if it's time for a new one. However, with the newer belts, belt thickness is a more reliable indicator of the status. At Frosty Auto Clinic, we use a nifty tool to measure the depth of the grooves to see if a replacement is in order.

A worn belt can cause problems even before it breaks. It can slip out of place and put undue stress on the accessories it runs.

There's a tensioner pulley on your engine that puts pressure on the belt to keep it at the right tension. Since the spring on the tensioner wears out like any other part, Frosty Auto Clinic recommends replacing the tensioner pulley when you switch out the serpentine belt.

Replacing your serpentine belt on schedule will save you from a dangerous breakdown.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 16:01:00 GMT

Diesel engines are appearing in more and more vehicles in nearly every category from compact cars to pick-up trucks to high-performance luxury vehicles. In much of the world, 40% or more of passenger vehicles are equipped with diesels. North American is beginning to appreciate the power and fuel economy benefits of diesel engines.

Many maintenance items for diesel engines are similar to gasoline engines. One notable difference is the requirement of Diesel Exhaust Fluid, or DEF. Modern clean-diesel engines burn very lean to reduce soot and other pollutants. A side effect is the production of nitrogen oxides which are harmful to the environment. DEF is added to the exhaust and reacts with nitrogen oxide to produce harmless water and nitrogen.

Diesel vehicles have a tank to hold the DEF. A small amount of DEF is metered into the exhaust as the engine runs. When the DEF starts to run low, the DEF tank must be refilled.

Because DEF is so important to environmental health, your vehicle will notify you when it is running low. As the DEF level gets lower, you will receive additional warnings. At some point, the engine may go into “limp home” mode or the number of times which the engine can be started may be limited. So, don’t ignore the low DEF warning and be sure to refill the DEF tank.

We are trained and equipped to help you care for your diesel vehicle. With proper maintenance you will enjoy long engine life and excellent fuel economy.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

The Harm in Skipping an Oil Change

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 17:32:38 GMT

Some new vehicle manufacturers are now recommending much higher oil change intervals than they have in the past. As much as 5,000 to 8,000 miles or more. Following these recommendations is very important to avoid engine damage. When you go too long between oil changes, oil starts to turn to sludge. This causes small oil passages to clog and engine parts to fail.

What causes oil sludge? It’s a factor of time and mileage. There are hot spots in every engine that cause oil burn off that leads to sludge. Also, water from normal condensation can build up in the oil. This water also creates sludge. Severe driving conditions lead to more rapid sludge formation.

Severe driving includes short trips under four miles or trips under ten miles in freezing conditions. The engine just doesn’t get warm enough for the water in the oil to evaporate.

Severe conditions are at the heart of the problem. Stop and go driving, towing, dusty conditions, heavy loads, very hot or very cold temperatures, a car top carrier – these are all conditions that would suggest that the severe service schedule should be considered.

The severe service schedule has much shorter oil change intervals. People just need to honestly evaluate how they drive to determine if they should change their oil closer to the severe service schedule, or to the standard schedule.

Some cars give oil change reminders. But it’s important to know how that reminder is determined. For some, the reminder simply comes when the standard mileage interval has rolled around. Others use a computer algorithm that takes into consideration the number of cold starts, trip length, engine temperature and so on. It’s programmed to approximate where on the standard/severe service spectrum you fall. Some more expensive vehicles have sensors that test the cleanliness and effectiveness of the oil.

For the rest of us, better safe than sorry should be the guiding principle. Talk with your service advisor and work it out together. Find out what kind of oil the factory sends out in your vehicle. Sometimes it’s a premium grade that costs more than standard oil – but it may be what’s needed to meet a higher factory recommended interval.

Give us a call.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

5 Reasons To Keep Your Car Well-Maintained

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:49:58 GMT

Thanks for visiting the Frosty Auto Clinic auto care blog. Today's post lists 5 important reasons JEFFERSON CITY drivers should follow recommended maintenance schedules.

1. Be Safe

A well-maintained car doesn't put you and your passengers at unnecessary risk. Think brakes, headlamps, tires.

2. Get Better Fuel Economy

Regular maintenance is an investment in optimum fuel economy. Inadequate tire pressure, a dirty fuel system and a clogged air filter are just a few things that reduce fuel economy.

3. Preserve Resale Value

How many JEFFERSON CITY used car buyers will pay full Blue Book for a car with a filthy engine, clogged filters and bald tires?

4. Don't Void Your Warranty

Your warranty claims may be denied if your service history doesn't fulfill the minimum requirements recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

5. Save Money

Regular maintenance reduces the chance of catastrophic failures and repairs.

Here are some Frosty Auto Clinic tips to help you remember the main items:

First: Fluids. Oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, differential fluid, etc. We can take care of all of these for you at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY.

Then think Tires. Air, rotation, balancing, and alignment. And while you're thinking tires, think brakes and shock absorbers.

Air and Fuel. Air filter replacement, fuel filters and Frosty Auto Clinic fuel system cleaning.

This doesn't cover everything, but Frosty Auto Clinic will help you with the rest.

Give us a call.

At Frosty Auto Clinic we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

Auto Repair Ethics In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:15:46 GMT

We're going to be talking about the ethics of automotive repair in JEFFERSON CITY. Unfortunately, every profession has some bad actors that hurt the reputation of everyone else. It's no different in the JEFFERSON CITY area.

In the automotive world, JEFFERSON CITY industry associations and MO professional licensing organizations are very committed to high ethical standards.

Yet some people are still uncomfortable with automotive service and repair in JEFFERSON CITY.

If we understand what's recommended and the benefits of taking care of the work – and the pitfalls of putting it off – we'll have more trust in the recommendation. So communication is key. It's like going to the doctor. If she's using medical jargon and takes a lot of basic medical knowledge for granted, we have a hard time following her train of thought. We understand It can be like that with your service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic, too. He's so familiar with all things automotive, he may forget you don't know a PCV from an EGT.

If you don't understand what your doctor's talking about: ask some questions. If you don't understand what your JEFFERSON CITY automotive advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic is talking about: ask some questions.

Let's go back to those ethical standards. When we hear a repair recommendation, we always ask ourselves, "Is this really necessary?" Well, here's the industry standard:

If a JEFFERSON CITY auto technician tells you that a repair or replacement is required, it must meet one of the following criteria:

1. The part no longer performs its intended purpose

2. The part does not meet a design specification

3. The part is missing

For example, it you take your car in for a grinding noise when you step on the brakes, you may just think you need new brake pads. After the inspection, the technician says that you have a cracked rotor and need to replace it. If you tried to get him to just put new pads on, he would say that if you didn't want to replace the rotor, he would ethically have to refuse the repair. To just put pads on a cracked rotor would have been very wrong. The brakes could've failed at anytime: they needed to be repaired – not just have a band-aid slapped on them.

Now, looking at something not so serious, Frosty Auto Clinic may suggest repair or replacement:

1. If the part is close to the end of its useful life – just above discard specifications or likely to fail soon

2. To address a customer need or request – like for better ride or increased performance

3. To comply with maintenance recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer

4. Based on the technician's informed experience

Of course, Frosty Auto Clinic has the burden of making ethical recommendations and properly educating their customers. For the customer, if you are uncomfortable with a recommendation, ask some questions. More information is always a good thing.

Call us today.

Read the original article on the NAPA website.

What To Do After You Buy a Used Vehicle in JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:15:23 GMT

So you've bought a “new” used vehicle. How do you know what you're getting? It is hard to know what you're getting because JEFFERSON CITY drivers sell cars for different reasons. Think about why you've sold cars. Did you just want something new or were there problems that you wanted to run away from? Maybe it was a little of both.

JEFFERSON CITY area used cars with 25,000 to 35,000 miles, or 40,000 to 55,000 kilometers, on them are often lease returns, corporate program cars or vehicles that have done duty in MO rental fleets.JEFFERSON CITY drivers feel pretty confident because they're newer and may still be under warranty. But how well have they been maintained?

If you plan on owning a car for a long time, you'll keep up on the maintenance so that you can avoid expensive repairs down the road. But, if you know you're only going to have the vehicle for two or three years, you may not be so committed to maintenance. It would be easy to think that skipping an oil change here and there wouldn't ruin a brand new engine. Then it'll be someone else's problem when it comes time to pay for the damage.

It would be very tempting to skip the 30,000 mile/50,000 kilometer service if you knew you'd be turning in your leased vehicle in a couple of months.

If the vehicle didn't come with maintenance records, you need to assume the worst. Most likely the coolant system and transmission have never been serviced. The cabin air filter has probably not been changed and a fuel system cleaning may be in order.

You'll want Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY to check the air conditioning, battery, engine air filter, serpentine belt and hoses. An inspection at Frosty Auto Clinic is well worth the cost.

And if your “new” used vehicle has more miles on it, an inspection is even more important. Check your owner's manual or talk with your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor about what should have been done. Please don't forget the timing belt – that can be very expensive if it fails.

Your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor will help you with a plan to take care of critical services and get the rest caught up. If your budget won't allow you to take care of everything right away, your friendly and knowledgeable professionals at Frosty Auto Clinic can help you prioritize your needs and get them taken care of over the next several months. And remember to keep your maintenance records. They'll help you get top dollar when it's time for you to sell.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

5 Reasons To Keep Your Car Well-Maintained

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:15:16 GMT

Thanks for visiting the Frosty Auto Clinic auto care blog. Today's post lists 5 important reasons JEFFERSON CITY drivers should follow recommended maintenance schedules.

1. Be Safe

A well-maintained car doesn't put you and your passengers at unnecessary risk. Think brakes, headlamps, tires.

2. Get Better Fuel Economy

Regular maintenance is an investment in optimum fuel economy. Inadequate tire pressure, a dirty fuel system and a clogged air filter are just a few things that reduce fuel economy.

3. Preserve Resale Value

How many JEFFERSON CITY used car buyers will pay full Blue Book for a car with a filthy engine, clogged filters and bald tires?

4. Don't Void Your Warranty

Your warranty claims may be denied if your service history doesn't fulfill the minimum requirements recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

5. Save Money

Regular maintenance reduces the chance of catastrophic failures and repairs.

Here are some Frosty Auto Clinic tips to help you remember the main items:

First: Fluids. Oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, differential fluid, etc. We can take care of all of these for you at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY.

Then think Tires. Air, rotation, balancing, and alignment. And while you're thinking tires, think brakes and shock absorbers.

Air and Fuel. Air filter replacement, fuel filters and Frosty Auto Clinic fuel system cleaning.

This doesn't cover everything, but Frosty Auto Clinic will help you with the rest.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Supplemental Restraint System – Airbags

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:15:02 GMT

After they’ve had an accident, some people wonder why their airbags didn't go off. Movies and television lead us to believe that airbags go off with the slightest bump. The reality is much more complicated. First, airbags come out with great force and speed. Now getting hit in the face with an airbag is way better than getting hit in the face with a windshield – but if the accident impact isn't hard enough that you would be severely injured, the airbags may not be triggered at all because they could do more harm than good.

So how does your vehicle know when an accident is likely to result in life threatening injuries that would merit deploying the airbags? Well, there are sensors all around your vehicle that send information to the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) computer that decides which airbags should be deployed and when. There are impact sensors that measure the direction and intensity of an impact in the front, rear and sides of the vehicle. There are seat sensors that determine if someone is sitting there as well as how much they weigh. This way an airbag doesn't go off when no one is in a particular seat and it can deploy with less force for a smaller person.

The SRS computer takes into account vehicle speed and if there is a rollover. Built into the computer program are the design specifications of your vehicle as they relate to “crumple” zones in a crash. As you can imagine, the computer program is pretty sophisticated.

Now when an airbag does actually go off, there are some things JEFFERSON CITY residents should know about the repairs necessary to the SRS system. First, the deployed airbag should be replaced. Experts recommend that only a factory certified replacement airbag be used. Airbags are valuable enough that they are frequently stolen or recovered from junked vehicles in the JEFFERSON CITY area. No one can vouch for these airbags, so a certified replacement is essential.

When the driver side airbag in the steering wheel deploys, the steering wheel clock spring is usually damaged and should be replaced. Also, an “airbag worthy” event pre-triggers all of the sensors we've been talking about. In this pre-triggered state, something as slight as hitting a pothole could cause airbags to deploy. So after an airbag has actually been deployed, all of the SRS sensors throughout the vehicle should be replaced. Obviously, airbag work should only be undertaken by qualified service technicians.

Finally, when you start your engine, you will briefly see the SRS dash light come on and then turn off. This is a system self-test. If the SRS light remains illuminated, that means the system has detected a problem that could affect the proper deployment of your airbags. If that happens, get into Frosty Auto Clinic as soon as you can to have the fault diagnosed and repaired.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Takes Care of Your Vehicle's Suspension

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:24:07 GMT

After many years and tens of thousands of miles, your suspension system components do wear out, but how long that takes depends a lot on how you drive.

As you can imagine, if most of your driving is on smooth highways, your shock absorbers will last a lot longer than if you do most of your driving on bumpy roads or hauling heavy loads. In addition to just wearing out, suspension components can be damaged in an accident or by a hard impact – like a pothole, hitting a curb or a rock in the road.

Because the life span of shocks can vary so widely, your vehicle manufacturer recommends periodic inspections.

During an inspection, your service technician will check for worn, broken or missing parts.

Signs that shocks or struts are wearing out: The tires may have a cupped wear pattern. This is from the shocks bouncing unevenly. You may notice a floaty or drifting sensation when cornering. If the front of your vehicle dives excessively when stopping, or rocks back and forth after you stopped, your shocks may be worn out. And if they are leaking fluid, it’s time to replace them.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, go into your service center for a suspension inspection. Same if you’ve been in an accident that involved one of your wheels. Worn or broken shocks can cause premature wear or failure on other suspension parts such as ball joints and other steering components as well. If your suspension fails, it could lead to a serious accident, so take care of these things.

When you replace your shocks, it’s usually a good idea to replace all four at the same time. That’ll give you more even handling. Talk with your service advisor because you don’t want a big difference between the performance of your shocks from wheel to wheel and replacing all may be the safest bet.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Advice on Your Cooling System

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:18:17 GMT

Last week I was out running errands and my temperature warning light came on – total panic! I pulled over and my car was overheating

After it cooled down, I went right in to my service center to have them look. My service advisor told me my water pump was leaking and needed to be replaced. He said water pumps just wear out and that you need to replace them because they pump the coolant that cools the engine.

He told me they checked out my radiator hoses, serpentine belt and tensioner and that they were OK. But I was overdue for changing my coolant – like, embarrassingly overdue. I didn’t realize there was a schedule in my owner’s manual for when to change my coolant. My service advisor said that the coolant becomes corrosive over time and could damage my radiator, head gaskets, intake manifold gaskets, heater core, metal cooling pipes, expansion (frost) plugs, etc. That’s why they recommend changing the fluid on schedule.

So, we replaced the coolant with the kind my manufacturer recommends – I learned there are different kinds of coolant and you need to use the right one – and I was on my way. It feels good knowing my cooling system is healthy and I don’t need to worry about it.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Exhaust

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:09:07 GMT

We’ve all heard a car or truck that needs a new muffler. But there’s more to the exhaust system than just the muffler.

The exhaust system has three main functions:

To safely get hot exhaust gas from the engine out the tailpipe
Treats the exhaust to remove harmful pollutants
Muffle the engine noise

Exhaust gas is poisonous. You don’t want it getting into the passenger compartment. For example, carbon monoxide can be deadly. That’s why you should never run your engine in a closed garage. If you have a leak somewhere in the exhaust system, exhaust could get into the passenger cabin and make you sick or even kill you.

If you smell exhaust in the vehicle, roll down your windows and get it inspected. You may smell or see exhaust coming from the engine compartment or under the vehicle if you have a leak. Sometimes the sound from an exhaust leak is loud and obvious. Sometimes it’s a ticking sound when you start the engine that goes away as you drive. That could be a small crack or a bad fitting that leaks when it’s cold but seals up when the metal heats and expands.

Now, let’s address the environmental issues. Exhaust gas contains several pollutants and particulates. The catalytic converter scrubs some of those harmful substances. And diesel vehicles have systems to deal with soot. Catalytic converters eventually wear out and need to be replaced. They’re expensive so you want to help them last as long as possible by keeping the fuel system clean and replacing your air filter. These components need to be tested for function with an emissions test from time to time.

And that leaves the muffler. The beauty of getting a new muffler is that you can suit your taste: Some want whisper quiet and others like a little rumble. And some like a roar.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Airbags in JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:00:02 GMT

After they’ve had an accident, some people wonder why their airbags didn’t go off. Movies and television lead us to believe that airbags go off with the slightest bump. The reality is much more complicated. First, airbags come out with great force and speed. Now getting hit in the face with an airbag is way better than getting hit in the face with a windshield – but if the accident impact isn’t hard enough that you would be severely injured, the airbags may not be triggered at all because they could do more harm than good.

So how does your vehicle know when an accident is likely to result in life threatening injuries that would merit deploying the airbags? Well, there are sensors all around your vehicle that send information to the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) computer that decides which airbags should be deployed and when. There are impact sensors that measure the direction and intensity of an impact in the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. There are seat sensors that determine if someone is sitting there as well as how much they weigh. This way an airbag doesn’t go off when no one is in a seat and it can deploy with less force for a smaller person.

The SRS computer considers vehicle speed and if there is a rollover. Built into the computer program are the design specifications of your vehicle as they relate to “crumple” zones in a crash. As you can imagine the computer program is sophisticated.

Now, when an airbag does go off, there are some things you should know about the repairs necessary to the SRS system. First, the deployed airbag should be replaced. Experts recommend that only a factory certified replacement airbag be used. Airbags are expensive enough that they are frequently stolen or recovered from junked vehicles. No one can vouch for these airbags, so a certified replacement is essential.

When the driver side airbag in the steering wheel deploys, the steering wheel clock spring is usually damaged and should be replaced. Also, an “airbag worthy” event pre-triggers all the sensors we’ve been talking about. In this pre-triggered state, something as slight as hitting a pothole could cause airbags to deploy. So, after an airbag has been deployed, all of the SRS sensors throughout the vehicle should be replaced. Obviously, airbag work should only be undertaken by qualified service technicians.

Finally, when you start your engine, you will briefly see the SRS dash light come on and then turn off. This is a system self-test. If the SRS light remains illuminated, that means the system has detected a problem that could affect the proper deployment of your airbags. If that happens, get into your service facility as soon as you can to have the fault diagnosed.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Get Fresh Air Inside Your Car

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:55:47 GMT

MO air quality affects JEFFERSON CITY drivers wherever we are. Many decades ago, people began to become aware of how air pollution negatively affects health. But what about the air inside your vehicle?

Cabin air filters are now coming standard on most new vehicles since the 2000 model year. These filters clean the air in the passenger compartment.

They can filter particles down to three microns, so that’s good enough to clean out dust, pollen and most pollutants. If you suffer from allergies, this is very good news.

You can look in your owner’s manual to see if you have a cabin air filter. If you do, there’ll be a recommendation for replacing it when it gets dirty. If you live where there’s a lot of dust, pollen or pollution, you may need to change it more often. You can also ask your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor.

How hard it is to change a cabin air filter depends on your vehicle. Some are quite accessible; others take some doing to get to them. They’re usually in the engine compartment or under the dashboard.

Because cabin air filters are so new on the scene, some JEFFERSON CITY drivers haven’t heard of them – even people who have cabin air filters. Frosty Auto Clinic service advisors report customers complaining of an unpleasant odor in their vehicle and it turned out to be a dirty cabin air filter.

An important note for MO hybrid owners: there is a special air filter that cleans the air that cools the hybrid battery pack. This filter should be inspected every time the cabin air filter is inspected and replaced if it is dirty so that the battery pack doesn’t overheat.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Fuel Pump

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:50:16 GMT

Your fuel pump sends fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. Fuel pumps just wear out over time; it might be the electric motor, a sensor, a valve, a relay or some other electrical component. Whatever the exact cause for the fuel pump failure may be, the solution to getting you back on the JEFFERSON CITY road is to replace the pump assembly. When one component has failed, another one is probably just around the corner, so it makes sense to replace everything at once and save the future labor costs.

The fuel pump is inside the fuel tank on most vehicles, and for many cars, trucks and SUVs, the fuel tank must be removed to replace the fuel pump. As you can imagine, that is pretty labor intensive: removing heat shields, retaining straps, all of the EVAP lines, fuel lines and electrical connections. And, of course, there is properly and safely handling the fuel that must be drained from the tank.

Some vehicles have an external fuel filter that should be replaced at the same time. The fuel tank may need to be replaced on some vehicles because of design specifications or if the fuel tank is corroded or otherwise damaged.

Now there are a couple of things you can do to help your fuel pump last longer. One pump killer is contamination in the fuel tank. Sometimes this comes from the fuel itself. Buying fuel at a reputable station will help make sure you are putting clean fuel into the tank. Older vehicles tend to have more sediment in the tank from years of rust or corrosion from the tank itself. The tank may need a thorough cleaning or replacement.

Another thing you can do is refill your tank when it gets down to about a quarter full. The fuel pump is submerged in the fuel which cools and lubricates it. When the tank runs low, the pump has to work harder to suck up the fuel from the bottom and there is no fuel to cool it. This can lead to premature wear.

When the day comes that your fuel pump needs to be replaced, Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY will use a quality replacement pump that meets or exceeds your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. The entire assembly should be replaced. We'll be sure to install a replacement pump that is compatible with your fuel type. For example, if you have a FlexFuel vehicle that can run on gasoline with up to 85% ethanol content, your fuel system components – including the fuel pump – must be able to withstand the corrosive effects of high alcohol content fuel.

Give us a call.

At Frosty Auto Clinic we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Tire Replacement For JEFFERSON CITY Drivers

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:47:20 GMT

New tire choices can be overwhelming for JEFFERSON CITY car owners.

Let's suppose you have a sporty car. You may like to run a high-performance summer tire when the weather's good in JEFFERSON CITY. When the JEFFERSON CITY weather turns cold, you can put on high-performance winter tires. For the kind of driving you like to do in MO, you want full on performance tires.

If all-out performance isn't a big issue, all-season tires are a good compromise that works well for most JEFFERSON CITY drivers.

When it's time for new tires, visit with a tire professional at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY. Describe your needs and wants. He'll come up with some selections for you to discuss. And once you settle on a type of tire, there are options for special needs: like pulling a trailer or carrying heavy loads around JEFFERSON CITY.

Tires are a large purchase for JEFFERSON CITY drivers. With so many choices, you'll be able to get what's best for you.

Give us a call.

At Frosty Auto Clinic we install quality NAPA replacement parts.

Tires are a big purchase for JEFFERSON CITY drivers. With so many choices, you'll be able to get what's best for you.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Headlamp Replacement And Restoration At Frosty Auto Clinic In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:44:45 GMT

Way too many accidents happen at night. There are a lot of factors, but a big one is simply visibility: if you can’t see something it’s hard to avoid hitting it.

There are some things you can do to make sure you can see as much as possible when you’re driving in the dark.

First, keep your windshield clean. Glare from oncoming headlights can obscure obstacles in the road. Clean off that film that builds up on the inside of your windshield. And make sure you have good wiper blades and plenty of washer fluid.

Now it could be that your headlights just aren’t as bright as they used to be. It happens – the bulbs just dim over time. If it’s been a couple of years since you replaced your headlamps and they aren’t lighting up the road like they used to, get some new ones. They make upgraded headlamps too that give you a brighter light and a larger field of vision so you can see better and further down the road. Check with your service advisor if you want to up your headlamp performance.

Another very common headlamp problem is cloudy or yellowed lenses. These days lenses are plastic and they oxidize and discolor over time. Just look at the cars in the parking lot – chances are you’ll see several with cloudy lenses. This is a huge problem because some of the light coming from your headlamps gets trapped before it can even get out and shine down the road.

Replacing a set of headlight assemblies can run hundreds or even thousands of dollars. There’s an alternative that will save you big bucks: Headlight restoration. Your service technician can remove the oxidized layer from your lenses. He’ll then polish the lenses until they’re bright and smooth. When he’s all finished, your lenses will be as good as new.

Any accident is inconvenient and can be expensive. And if someone gets hurt, well, that’s something you want to avoid at all costs. If you’re not confident driving at night, ask your service advisor about headlamp replacement and headlight restoration.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

TSB, not USB

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:42:45 GMT

You probably know that USB is a computer term (it stands for Universal Serial Bus). But do you know what a TSB is? You should, because it could be important for your vehicle.

A TSB is a Technical Service Bulletin. Once a new vehicle is introduced and starts being driven by thousands of real-world users, weaknesses in parts or design are revealed. So, automakers send out TSBs, so service technicians will know to look for those problems. A TSB can be issued for things such as a loud noise when the vehicle turns or a minivan power door that won't close properly.

A TSB is not the same as a recall. If a vehicle has a defect that could result in people being hurt or illegal emissions, that vehicle is recalled. The manufacturer must pay for a safety defect to be fixed, usually at a dealership.

When a Technical Service Bulletin is issued, it's an acknowledgment that the vehicle manufacturer has noticed a pattern of something not working the way it should. They also suggest the proper repair to address these known issues. The cost for a TSB is usually only covered by the manufacturer if the vehicle is still under warranty.

If your vehicle is no longer covered by a warranty, but a TSB has been issued on a certain problem, any service facility can perform the service. Ask your NAPA AutoCare Service Advisor about TSBs that may have been issued for your vehicle. Those TSBs can be helpful for the technician to diagnose any problem you are experiencing. The TSB will also guide the technician on the best repair procedure to get your vehicle working the way it should. We’re committed to maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel economy. Trust your vehicle to NAPA AutoCare.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Steamed Up (Vapor Coming Out of Vents)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:40:06 GMT

Sometimes you may notice a little steam or vapor coming out of your vehicle's vents when running the air conditioning or heater. Is this something about which you need to worry?

The answer is it may or may not be troublesome. Sometimes it can be caused by water accumulating in the vent system after it condenses. That water can wind up at the bottom of a vent, and when you turn on the blower motor, it can cause what looks like steam or vapor to come out of the vents.

It may go away on its own when the system dries out after you've run the fan for a while. Of course, moisture sitting around for more than a short time in a hot vehicle is the perfect breeding ground for mold to develop, and you don’t want your vehicle to smell like musty mold.

Sometimes the moisture can build up because a drain is clogged. A technician can clean that out and get things draining again.

If the vapor coming out of the vents has a sweet, syrupy smell, it could be caused by a hole in your heater core. The heater core is the part that helps heat the cabin in colder weather. The inside of your windows may even steam up if the hole is large enough.

In either case, if you have steam, smoke, or vapor coming out of your vents, bring your vehicle into your NAPA AutoCare Center as soon as possible so a technician can check it out. Catching a problem early on can potentially keep it from becoming bigger and more expensive to repair.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Tech Question on Your Fuel Pump

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:37:17 GMT

Question:

I was driving one day, and my car started sputtering and then the engine finally quit, and I couldn’t get it started. I was towed to a shop and found out I had to replace my fuel pump.

What could I have done to have saved my fuel pump?

Answer:

This is a tough one because there isn’t any maintenance recommended for fuel pumps. They’re inside the fuel tank and you really can’t get to them without removing the tank. But you can do some things to make their job easier, so they last a little longer.

A lot of vehicles are equipped with a fuel filter on their gas line. This filters out dirt and rust from the gas tank before it gets to the engine. Replacing a clogged fuel filter as recommended reduces the strain on your fuel pump.

Newer vehicles have their fuel filter inside the fuel tank, so it cannot be changed. A good tip is to not run the fuel tank too low – this can cause fuel starvation that excessively wears the pump.

Also, you can’t go wrong using good quality gas with high levels of detergent. This helps prevent the buildup of varnish and gum all along the fuel system.

A professional fuel system cleaning will clean fuel injectors and help remove carbon deposits from the valves and combustion chamber.

All these things improve fuel economy and increase performance. Ask your service advisor if a fuel system cleaning is recommended.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Used Vehicle Inspection

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:33:25 GMT

It’s always exciting to get a new car – even when it’s used. But it can feel like you’re going out on a limb a bit when you buy a used vehicle. I mean, people sell vehicles for a lot of reasons. Maybe they just wanted a new car, maybe there was something wrong with it, and maybe there was something really wrong with it.

It’s a great idea to order a report from a vehicle history service. This can uncover title problems and may reveal serious accidents or flood damage as well as any recall notices for the vehicle. Maintenance and repair records are a plus, but most sellers don’t have them.

Of course the best thing is to get a professional to perform a used vehicle inspection. The inspection will go much deeper than just how good the vehicle looks and drives. You’ll get a feel for the vehicle’s overall condition, the status of major safety systems and an indication of how well it has been maintained. You’ll get a good idea of any work that needs to be done – and that will help you determine an appropriate value for the vehicle.

It’s pretty easy to see how a used vehicle inspection is worth the cost. If problems are uncovered, you can either steer clear of the vehicle or bargain for a better price. If everything is OK, you’ll have a plan for addressing any routine services that should be done, not to mention a whole lot of peace of mind.

It’s easy to fall in love with a vehicle – just don’t let your feelings cloud your judgment. Have our pros at Frosty Auto Clinic perform a used vehicle inspection so that you’ll know if you’re getting a peach, or a lemon.

Give us a call.

Pay Attention to this Light

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:31:00 GMT

Of all the warning lights on your vehicle's instrument panel, there's one that demands your attention. And that's the brake warning light.

Common sense will tell you that if you can't stop, you are endangering yourself and others. Brake warning lights are there to warn you that something is wrong with this vital safety system.

There are several reasons a brake light will come on, but if yours does, get it to your NAPA AutoCare Center and have it checked out right away.

Here are some possibilities of what's going on when you see that brake warning light.

Low brake fluid—A sensor has detected that the brake fluid level is low. The technician can determine if you need more fluid. The technician can also determine if there's a leak in your brake system. Low brake fluid could also be a sign of worn brakes pads. An inspection can reveal brake problems. Just topping off the brake fluid can leave critical problems unaddressed.

The light will also come on if there is a sudden loss of hydraulic pressure in the brake lines. This could be from a brake line rupture. This could be caused by road debris cutting a brake line or simply from corrosion eating through a line. Your brake light will come on at the same time the line ruptures, and you will have little warning. Always keep in the back of your mind that you have your emergency brake as one more way to stop.

The brake light may come on when your parking/emergency brake is on. It could be as simple as you left your parking brake on.

Another brake related warning light is the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) light. This system has many components; a bad wheel sensor or damaged wiring may be the culprit. Your technician has a special diagnostic tool to track this one down.

Brakes aren't something to neglect. When you see that brake warning light come on, take your vehicle to your NAPA AutoCare Service Advisor as soon as possible.

Give us a call.

Smooth Shifting In JEFFERSON CITY

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:26:02 GMT

If you've been paying attention, you've noticed that MO vehicles are getting more and more powerful and at the same time are getting better and better fuel economy . Much of that's because of better transmissions. To get a understanding of why that is, let's turn to gear experts – JEFFERSON CITY bicyclists.

A cyclist's cadence is the number of times per minute he or she pedals. Their ideal pedal speed is the zone where they can most efficiently generate power over a sustained period of time. The experienced cyclist uses his gears to keep his pedal speed in the ideal zone whether he's climbing a steep JEFFERSON CITY hill, cruising on a flat stretch or killing a downhill.

Look at how it works: if you have a 1-speed bike, you really have to pump hard to get up to speed. And your top speed is limited by how fast as you can pedal. And if you've got a hill to climb – forget about it.

Now let's add a couple of gears: one lower and another one higher. With the lower first gear, you can get up to your ideal pedal speed quicker. When you shift to second, your pedal speed drops below ideal for a while as you work to get back to peak efficiency. Same thing happens when you shift to third, but now you can go much faster than you could with a 1-speed bike using the same effort.

Add more gears and you can see that it's much easier to maintain ideal pedal speed. The result, quicker starts, better hill climbing, higher top speed and, most of all, a lot less fatigue for the rider.

Like a cyclist, every vehicle engine has an ideal engine speed called its power band. When an engine is running in that zone, it can make power very efficiently. It's the transmission's job to keep the engine in the power band over a wide range of operating conditions. Today 5 or 6 speed automatic transmissions are pretty much the minimum in MO, and 7 and 8 speeds are fairly common.

Obviously these sophisticated vehicle transmissions are very complicated. In fact, next to your engine, your transmission is the most expensive component in your vehicle, so it pays to take good care of it. Modern transmissions can adversely affect vehicle engine performance when they aren't working right.

All have a recommended service interval for changing your old, contaminated transmission fluid. Getting transmission service on schedule at Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY keeps it operating at its best and can prevent damage. Ask your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor if it's time for of your transmission.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Simple Answers from Frosty Auto Clinic in JEFFERSON CITY: Severe Service

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:22:31 GMT

Question:

What is a severe service maintenance schedule?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

When I was a kid in JEFFERSON CITY, Sunday meant having a bath, getting dressed for church and then hanging up my Sunday clothes soon as we got home. Mom didn't have to wash those clothes but once a month or so.

Now, Saturdays were another story entirely: catching lizards, splash contests in mud puddles and crawling through the brush with GI Joe. Those clothes went straight into the laundry basket. My Sunday clothes – easy use. My Saturday clothes – hard use. They required a different laundry schedule. Severe service maintenance schedules are kind of like that for JEFFERSON CITY drivers. “Normal” driving has a regular schedule; “hard” driving has a severe service schedule. Service intervals are shorter on the severe schedule.

Most owner's manuals will describe severe service as:

Stop and go driving

Short trips

Low speed driving

Extreme hot or cold

Dusty conditions

Carrying heavy loads

Towing

For most people in JEFFERSON CITY, some “severe” driving is part of their everyday routine. You can ask your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Frosty Auto Clinic about how you drive around the JEFFERSON CITY area and see if your routine is closer to the regular or severe definitions and adjust your service intervals for things like oil changes, transmission and cooling system service.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Forced Induction

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:19:02 GMT

Most JEFFERSON CITY residents associate turbochargers and superchargers with hot rods and racing. However, the number of everyday cars and trucks coming to JEFFERSON CITY from the factory with chargers is growing every year. Here's why.

You need three elements for combustion: fuel, oxygen and ignition (spark plug in gasoline engines and compression in diesels). Superchargers and turbochargers deal with the oxygen part of the formula. In the normally aspirated engines JEFFERSON CITY residents are familiar with, air is just drawn in from the outside by vacuum pressure created as the engine runs. Turbochargers and superchargers compress the air that goes into the engine's combustion chamber, forcing in more oxygen. This forced charge of air allows an engine to make more power than a similarly-sized, normally aspirated engine.

So today we have small 4-cylinder turbocharged engines on JEFFERSON CITY streets making more power than a full-sized V8 did 20 years ago – and getting far better fuel economy. And the power on turbocharged six and eight cylinder engines is through the roof.

In addition to power and fuel economy, charged engines deliver benefits for JEFFERSON CITY drivers at higher altitudes. As the air thins with an increase in elevation, there is less oxygen available to burn in the engine, resulting in a significant power loss. Charging forces more air – and oxygen – into the engine, preserving much of the power at altitude. Turbochargers use exhaust from the engine to spin an impeller that compresses the air sent to the engine. Because there is a short time between when you step on the accelerator and the time the exhaust pressure builds up enough to spin the turbo up to speed, there is a short lag in power. To combat this “turbo lag," some use two turbos: a small one that quickly spins up when engine speed is low and a larger one for when the engine is running . Others use a variable vane technology in the impeller to accomplish the same thing.

Superchargers are driven by a belt connected to the engine's crankshaft. There is no lag because charging starts immediately (it doesn't have to wait for exhaust pressure). Superchargers are less efficient for JEFFERSON CITY residents because they require engine power to run the compressor, whereas turbochargers are powered by “free” exhaust. In both types, the air heats up as it is compressed. In some engines it is necessary to cool the air before it goes into the engine. In those engines, the air passes through what is called an intercooler to bring its temperature down to the proper range. An intercooler is like a small radiator and may be cooled by air flow or by liquid coolant.

JEFFERSON CITY owners of superchargers and turbochargers should always use the fuel grade recommended by their vehicle manufacturer. This is important in charged engines because of the extra pressure as the fuel and air is compressed. Using fuel with too low of an octane rating could lead to premature detonation which can cause damage.

Generally speaking, turbochargers and superchargers do not require regular maintenance. But they do wear like any other part in your vehicle and will eventually need repair or replacement. All of your regular vehicle maintenance should be done on schedule – things like oil changes and transmission service and so on. Talk with your friendly and knowledgeable Frosty Auto Clinic about any concerns you have and about the next services your vehicle needs.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Chilling In JEFFERSON CITY With Winter Tires

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:15:47 GMT

There’s more to winter tires than you may think. Those days of clunky, tractor-like snow tires are long gone, replaced by high-tech winter tires with special rubber compounds and advanced tread designs.

In winter temperatures, the rubber in summer tires becomes hard and inflexible and they don’t grip the road as well. In contrast, winter tires use special rubber compounds that are more pliable when the temperature drops below 45 degrees giving you better road contact; so even if you don’t get much snow, winter tires will really add to your cold weather safety.

Winter tires may also use a micro-pore rubber compound that increases surface area so they can bite into ice and packed snow.

The tread on winter tires needs to clear out water, snow and slush as the tire turns so it’s ready to take another bite when it comes back in contact with the road. But summer tires can actually be dangerous because they get packed with snow, making them very slick, and your vehicle hard to control.

Winter tires have a lot of thin slits in the tread called sipes, which help the tire grab ice and packed snow, providing extra traction.

Many new vehicles come with all-season tires, which are great for a wide range of weather and road conditions, but don’t provide top performance in snow and ice. For example, winter tires provide 25 to 50% more traction than all-season tires. And all-season tires take up to 42% longer to stop than winter tires in slick conditions.

For all these reasons, tire experts recommend you put winter tires on all four wheels because it makes sense to have equal traction and handling at all four corners of your vehicle. Uneven traction could result in loss of control.

Your vehicle may be equipped with stability control, anti-lock brakes and traction control – all important safety systems. But in order to do their job you still need good traction. Winter tires help you start, stop and corner when things get cold and slippery.

So, when the temperature drops below 45 degrees, be sure you have four winter tires for maximum performance in snow, ice and wet roads. Your tire professional can help you find the right winter tire for your vehicle and driving needs.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic : Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:10:52 GMT

The Check Engine Light strikes fear into the hearts of some and is totally ignored by just as many. Just what it means is a mystery to most of us.

First, if your check engine light is flashing, that means that something is wrong that could cause severe damage to the catalytic converter or other components. Get that taken care of right away. If your check engine light is flashing, you shouldn’t drive at highway speeds, tow or haul heavy loads. Take it easy all the way to the service center.

If the light is glowing steadily, you should keep an eye on it for a day or two. If the light doesn’t go off, schedule an appointment with your service advisor to get it checked out.

Some more information on how the Check Engine Light works may be informative. Most of your engine functions are controlled by a computer, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer. The computer can adjust many engine parameters for environmental conditions, engine condition and even the way you drive.

To make these adjustments, the computer relies on a network of sensors to provide data. The computer knows the proper operating range for each sensor. When a sensor reading is out of range the computer runs some tests and may turn on the Check Engine Light.

The computer will also try to adjust compensate for some readings. If it can do so, it’ll then turn off the Check Engine Light.

If the problem can’t be resolved, then the light will remain on and you should get your vehicle looked at.

Your service technician will plug a scanner into the on-board diagnostic port and read the trouble code stored in the computer. The trouble code will give the technician a starting place as he diagnoses the cause of the problem.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Care About Your Spare (Spare Tire Care)

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:08:08 GMT

Most of us don't worry about getting a flat tire. After all, it rarely happens, and if it does, we might think we can just call someone and have them put on the spare. That's all fine and dandy if your spare is in good shape. But how many of us even think twice about the condition of our spare tires?

The spares that take the biggest beating are those mounted outside, like those on SUVs and trucks. They might be on the tailgate or underneath the vehicle. These get exposed to water, dirt, salt, and road debris. The mounting hardware can become so corroded that you may not even be able to get the spare out of its holder, leaving you with no usable spare at all.

When you get your tires rotated, ask your NAPA AutoCare Center to check the condition and inflation of the outside-mounted spare and its holder. A little lubrication and maintenance periodically can help keep them fit for action. Often the spare on an SUV or truck is the same size as the other tires and may be included in the regular rotation – check your owner's manual.

How about those compact spare tires that are sitting in the trunk, out of sight and out of mind? They can have low air pressure too because, over time, the air can slowly escape. It's a good idea to have your service facility check the spare's pressure and condition at least twice a year, if not more frequently. What good is a spare with inadequate air pressure?

And then there are the vehicles that don't have spares at all. They may have an inflator kit. That needs to be kept in good shape, too. Know that an inflator kit can't fix many tire punctures and failures. They frequently have a sealant in them that attempts to plug leaks and holes. That sealant has an expiration date and should be replaced when it expires. Again, ask Service Advisor if your inflator kit is up to date and working.

Be fair to your spare and show it you care.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Selecting Tires

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:04:03 GMT

Question:

I need new tires. How do I know which tires to get?

Frosty Auto Clinic Answer:

Let's look at selecting new tires in light of three factors: Function , Fit , and Value .

Function: This gets at what your needs are for new tires: MO weather conditions, JEFFERSON CITY terrain, JEFFERSON CITY temperatures, etc.

Most new family vehicles in MO come with all-season tires. They can be used all year long and do pretty well in most MO road conditions – but they aren't ideal at the extremes.

Winter tires have a more aggressive tread for handling snow and ice on roads, and they have a rubber compound that helps them have better traction as JEFFERSON CITY temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit/7.2 degrees Centigrade. In winter weather, you'll definitely experience better stopping and road-holding characteristics for JEFFERSON CITY vehicles than all-season tires. Dedicated summer tires enhance warm MO weather performance driving for JEFFERSON CITY .

If you drive off-road around JEFFERSON CITY, there is a wide spectrum of tires from all-terrain (a good mix of highway and off-road capability) to dedicated off-road tires.

The key is to discuss function with a Frosty Auto Clinic tire professional to get the type of tire, load rating, speed rating and wear rating you need.

Fit: The easiest thing is to purchase tires in the same size that were installed by the manufacturer. If you want a different size wheel or tire profile, be sure to work with your Frosty Auto Clinic service advisor so you can make sure that your new wheels and tires fit properly and don't rub in bumps or turns. It's also important to make sure that important safety systems like anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control aren't adversely affected by the new tire size (the computer may need to be recalibrated to make necessary adjustments).

Value: Note, I didn't say price. The tire that meets all your needs AND has the warranty and tread life you expect will not be the least expensive option – but it may well return the best value for your tire dollar.

Frosty Auto Clinic tire professionals help JEFFERSON CITY drivers with this automotive decision.

Give us a call.

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

Frosty Auto Clinic Serpentine Belt Service

frostysautoclinic@gmail.com (Mueller) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 15:59:57 GMT

Your serpentine belt drives your alternator and air conditioning compressor. The power steering and power brake pumps are driven by the serpentine belt in many vehicles. In some vehicles, the water pump is driven by the serpentine belt (in others it’s driven by the timing belt). The radiator cooling fan on some vehicles are also driven by the serpentine belt. Some have separate electric motors.

Serpentine belts do a lot of work, but they’re tough and can last for thousands of miles, but just how long will they last? That’ll vary for each individual car. Your manufacturer will have a recommendation for when it should be changed, but it could need it sooner. The good news is that a visual inspection can reveal a belt that’s worn.

It’s often recommended that the tensioner pulley that keeps the belt at the proper tension be replaced along with the serpentine belt. This pulley is mounted to the engine block with a spring-loaded arm.

What are the warning signs that there’s a problem with the serpentine belt? You may hear a squealing sound from under the hood when accelerating. A loose belt might give you a slow, slapping sound.

If you suspect a problem with your serpentine belt, or if it’s just been a while since it was last checked, ask your service advisor to have it looked over.

Give us a call

Read the full article on the NAPA website.

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