County Line Auto Repair

Air purity and quality have become major causes of concern, with the government coming down quite hard on the automotive industry. Generally, vehicle exhaust systems release a wide range of emissions (gases and fumes) when running, contributing to air pollution. Consequently, most governments hold vehicles to specific emission standards to control these pollutants. Since 1975, it was declared mandatory for all road-legal cars in the US to have a catalytic converter regulated by the Clean Air Act. So, What is a Catalytic Converter? A catalytic converter looks like a big metal box located between the muffler and the engine on the underside of your vehicle. It is a part of the car's exhaust system and plays a crucial role in cleaning up the harmful gases such as hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide that are produced when your vehicle runs. The harmful emissions are transformed into harmless gases such as water vapor and CO2 before they are emitted into the atmosphere ... read more

Checking your tire pressure is a basic skill that every driver should know. It’s like brushing your teeth or putting on socks. Once you learn how to do it once, you’ll be able to do it time and time again. Read on to learn more about tire pressure and why you should make it a part of your car routine.   Every vehicle manufacturer has a specific range of tire pressure for every model vehicle. The recommended range is where your tire pressure should always be for optimal performance, safety, and efficiency. Below are the reasons why you should maintain your tire pressure: Improves Fuel Economy Prevents Accidents Promotes Even Tire Wear When Should You Check Your Tire Pressure? Most automakers will recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month. The more often you do it, the sooner you will be able to catch if something goes wrong. Checking your tires is an accessible form of maintenance as most gas stations have gauges and air-filling stations availabl ... read more

Roadside emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere. We recognize that at County Line Auto Service, and we want you to come prepared. We’ve compiled this extensive list of items below of items you may need when you experience problems on the roads. Call this your “emergency kit”. With these items, you’ll have some peace of mind knowing that you have the items to get you out of a pinch. Flashlight This one is basic and simple. Make sure to pack some batteries for the flashlight. These will come in handy when you need to install a spare tire, check under the hood, or any other quick fixes at night. Cell Phone Portable Charger Our cell phones are almost always on our bodies. However, you’re going to need it to be properly charged just in case you need directions when you’re stranded or to call for roadside assistance. That is why it is great to carry one on hand. Jumper Cables Having your own set of jumper cables is the best thing you can do for ... read more

The ability to stop a car is just as important as the ability to move it, and your brakes are responsible for the former. You should always ensure your braking system is functioning optimally, and the brake fluid is essential. With repeated use and time, your brake fluid will deteriorate, compromising your braking system and eventually reducing performance. The condition of your braking fluid is essential to the brake performance in the following ways: Pressure Delivery A car's braking system involves many parts, all of which experience significant pressure when you apply your brakes. The brake pads apply pressure to the wheels to stop their rotation and require brake fluid for pressure absorption. Brake fluid is often referred to as hydraulic fluid because it distributes pressure among various mechanical apparatus in the braking system when you step on the brakes. The braking fluid's condition determines how well it distributes pressure. It also ensures it won't stick, b ... read more

Like your engine, the transmission is one of your car’s most vital components. It is complex and costly, which is why you should give it special attention. Additionally, you should pay attention to the following red flags that point to problems with the transmission.   Grinding or Shaking When Changing Gears Gear changes should be smooth when your transmission is working as it should. When the gears are damaged in any way, you may feel any grinding, slipping, or shaking sensations when shifting in between park and drive. It is important to have this looked at by a professional technician ASAP. Burning Smell On a normal occasion, your car should NEVER have a burning smell. When you catch it though, it means serious business. One of the most common causes of a burning smell is overheated transmission fluid. The transmission fluid plays a crucial role in lubricating and protecting the transmission. You should act fast before you transmission parts get damaged. If you n ... read more

When it comes to driving your vehicle, it all happens because of the battery. Proper battery maintenance is important for two reasons: your vehicle won't start or run without it, and it is key to preserving the electrical system. If your car battery isn't working as it should, your alternator has to do the heavy lifting, which could wear it down prematurely too.   Unfortunately, most people believe that car batteries are maintenance-free. However, like all batteries, batteries are susceptible to weakening over time. They are sensitive to changes in temperature in Youngsville, NC. To be specific, the heat in the summer can accelerate its downfall by causing corrosion and weakening its charge. As a result, a battery inspection is recommended in both the spring and fall. Next time you come in for a service, feel free to ask our technicians to test your battery. Below are some questions to ask yourself when inspecting your battery at home: Is it clean and free of sticky re ... read more

Having a child who is learning to drive can be exciting and scary all at the same time. If you have a teen driver now or are preparing for one in the future, these driving tips will help keep them out of trouble. The more tips and advice that you share with your teen, the better chance that they'll drive safely and responsibly. Read on to learn more.   Don't text and drive It's no surprise that cell phones are the biggest distraction for teenagers. Texting and driving are not only extremely dangerous, but it is illegal. Teenagers often think they can multitask and are invincible, but accidents can happen in seconds.   Learn to leave the media controls Teenagers love their music, but it's important for them to understand that they don't need to blare it through the speakers at max volume. Loud music can be a huge distraction, and putting hands on various buttons to change settings can be just as bad. It is crucial that beginner drivers keep their eyes ... read more

If you've only got one flat or damaged tire, and the rest of the other ones are in decent condition, you only need to replace the one, right? Not exactly - many experts have various opinions on this topic, and it truly depends on the situation.    To obtain the best possible handling and comfort for your vehicle, it is generally better for you to have all tires replaced on one occasion. Some people are against it because changing one has potential risks down the line, considering the tires will vary in tread depth. As a result, you might lose some control when accelerating, braking, and turning. Also, some automakers have restrictions against changing one or two tires at once altogether. Sometimes, this can be due to how those tires may affect both electronic and mechanical systems, including the ABS.   If you really must only replace one tire due to financial restrictions or whatnot, please consult with one of our tire experts. There are three factors to take in ... read more

Your vehicle's heater works simultaneously with your cooling system to deliver both heat and AC to your vents. Many problems with inconsistent temperatures usually stem from coolant fluid-related issues. If your heat isn't blowing warm air, only when your car is stopped or parked, it may be due to the following matters:  Low Coolant Levels Coolant is like the superfluid of all fluids; it regulates engine temperature and airflow coming into the passenger cabin. The air starts in the engine compartment, where heat accumulates. The coolant helps draw this generated heat by moving it to your radiator. If the coolant is low and you have your heater on, you may catch that your car heater only works when you're driving, not idling. Your first instinct should be to check the coolant. Irregular car care and leaks are two of the most common reasons behind low coolant. Whatever the cause, it's best to take your automobile to the experts at County Line Auto Service for an i ... read more

Valentine's Day is merely weeks away, and you're probably wondering what to get for your partner. While flowers and candy are lovely, they've been overdone. To knock it out of the park this year, why not give the thoughtful (and practical) gift of auto service.   Maybe your important someone has been procrastinating on getting their next oil change, or perhaps they need tire service or a minor repair. Life is busy, and we know that time is hard to find. Getting this gift for your loved one will bring them joy and give them the needed 'push' to get into the auto repair shop.    A serviced vehicle isn't just a nice gesture, but it can protect your partner's overall safety on the road. Services such as an oil change, tire alignment, or fluid change or flush are not only an excellent investment but can also prevent major problems from happening later on. So why not take the initiative and do what you can to protect your love? A gift certifica ... read more