Posted on 10/29/2023
Approaching a busy intersection, you press down on the brake pedal, expecting a smooth and responsive stop. However, instead of a seamless halt, your car shudders and makes an unsettling noise. The reason? Worn-out brake rotors. These often-overlooked components of your car's braking system play a crucial role in ensuring your safety on the road. Understanding the importance of brake rotors and being able to identify the signs that indicate they need replacement is vital, so let's take a deeper look into that. Brake Rotors Explained Brake rotors, also known as brake discs, are the round, flat metal components that work in conjunction with the brake pads to slow or stop the rotation of the wheels. When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads clamp down on the rotors, creating the friction necessary to decelerate the vehicle. This ... read more
Posted on 9/29/2023
When you think about factors that can affect your vehicle's performance and longevity, humidity might not be the first thing that comes to mind. We often focus on the more apparent culprits like extreme temperatures or road conditions. However, the truth is that humidity can quietly influence your car's well-being in ways you might not have considered. The Science Behind Humidity and Your Car Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how humidity impacts your vehicle, let's understand the basics. Humidity is essentially the amount of moisture present in the air. It's measured as a percentage, with 100% humidity indicating that the air is holding as much moisture as it possibly can. Now, how does this relate to your car? Well, humidity can affect various components of your vehicle, starting with the exterior. The Vehicle's Exterior - Rust and Paint Damage High humidity levels can accelerate rust formation on your car's metal su ... read more
Posted on 8/31/2023
When you look at a set of Goodyear or Falken tires, you just know that they perform well. But why is that what makes good tires... good? This question can go one of two ways, a scientific breakdown of the construction and materials of the wheel, and a simpler explanation of the factors that contribute to it. If you are here you probably want the latter one, so keep on reading! 1. Traction and Grip Traction is the tire's ability to grip the road surface, ensuring that your vehicle maintains control even in challenging conditions. This factor is influenced by the tire's tread pattern, depth, and compound. A good set of tires will have a well-designed tread pattern that efficiently channels water, slush, and debris away from the contact patch, thereby reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining a grip on wet roads. 2. Durability and Longevity Long-lasting tires save you money and provide peace of mind. Tire durability depends on the qual ... read more
Posted on 7/31/2023
When it comes to the engine's internal components, various belts and chains play critical roles in ensuring proper operation and synchronization. Among these are the timing belt, auxiliary belt, and timing chain. Understanding the distinctions between these components is essential for maintaining your vehicle's engine health and performance. In this blog, we will delve into the differences between timing belts, auxiliary belts, and timing chains, shedding light on their functions, locations, maintenance requirements, and potential consequences of neglect.Timing BeltThe timing belt, also known as a camshaft belt, is a toothed rubber belt that connects the engine's crankshaft to the camshaft(s). Its primary purpose is to synchronize the opening and closing of the engine's valves with the rotation of the crankshaft. This synchronization is crucial for precise combustion and efficient engine operation. The timing belt is typic ... read more
Posted on 6/30/2023
With summer officially starting, it's time to prepare your car for the hot weather and those exciting road trips. The scorching sun and long journeys can put additional strain on your vehicle, making maintenance crucial. With this blog, you will be more than ready for summer and all the challenges it poses to your vehicle, so make sure to read carefully! #1 Check and Top Up Fluid Levels Hot weather can accelerate fluid consumption in your car. Before setting off on your summer adventures, check and top up essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Adequate lubrication and cooling are vital to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent overheating, especially on long drives. #2 Inspect and Maintain the Cooling System Your car's cooling system plays a vital role in preventing engine overheating. Ensure that the radiator, coolant hoses, and water pump are in good condition. Clean any debris or dirt accumulate ... read more
Posted on 5/31/2023
Hawaii, heaven on earth is the most simple way to describe it. Despite it being a small state, it has quite a lot to offer, as you will shortly see below. Here are our picks for seven of the best locations to visit while you are on a road trip or vacation in Hawaii:7. The Road to Hana, Maui Embark on a journey along the famous Road to Hana, a picturesque drive filled with cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and lush rainforests. This winding coastal road will lead you to hidden gems such as the stunning Wailua Falls and the enchanting Bamboo Forest. Take your time to explore the scenic viewpoints and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Maui. 6. Waimea Canyon, Kauai Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon offers awe-inspiring vistas and vibrant red and green hues. Drive along the scenic Waimea Canyon Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Puu Hinahina Lookout for panoramic views of the canyon ... read more
Posted on 4/29/2023
Cleaning your car won't only make it look better but also bring a couple of other benefits. Firstly it will clean the brakes, making them work better and preventing them from getting stuck. Another advantage of regular car washes is getting rid of all the debris in the suspension system, which also improves its performance. If you want to learn how to clean your car like a pro at home, make sure to continue reading because we will find exactly that. 1. Start With The Wheels Start by giving your tires and rims a good clean. You can use a hard bristle brush because there is no paint that you can damage. Make sure you get into the rims, brakes, and suspension so all the debris will be washed off. 2. Spray The Car With Water Sprain your car before you start scrubbing it with a cleaning agent, ensuring that all the bigger particles will be washed away and won't damage your paint. 3. Apply The Cleaning Product Use a cleaning pr ... read more
Posted on 3/27/2023
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a safety feature in today's vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden braking, allowing the driver to maintain control and steer the car. When the ABS light on your dashboard comes on, it could indicate a problem with the system, which requires prompt attention from a qualified auto repair shop. Here's everything you need to know about the ABS system and what to do if the ABS light comes on in your vehicle. What is the ABS System? The ABS system is a computer-controlled braking system that uses sensors to monitor the speed of each wheel. If the system detects that one or more wheels are about to lock up, it automatically modulates the brake pressure to prevent skidding and losing control. What Causes the ABS Light to Come On? There are several reasons why the ABS light might come on, including: Failed Wheel Speed Sensor: The wheel speed sensor measures the speed of each wheel and ... read more
Posted on 2/28/2023
Oahu is a beautiful island destination with breathtaking landscapes, making it a perfect destination to explore. The island is relatively small and easy to navigate, so you can explore many of its scenic routes in a day or two. Here are some of the best spots to drive to in Oahu:North Shore: One of the most popular spots in Oahu, the North Shore is famous for its surfing competitions and the picturesque Waimea Bay. You can take a scenic drive along Kamehameha Highway and explore the stunning beaches, scenic views, and charming small towns. Diamond Head State Monument: Diamond Head is a volcanic crater that offers a panoramic view of Honolulu and the surrounding areas. You can take a leisurely drive along Diamond Head Road, which takes you to the summit of the crater. Hanauma Bay: Located on the southeastern coast of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area with a stunning coral reef. You can ... read more
Posted on 1/31/2023
The alternator is one of the most important, yet overlooked, parts of your vehicle. It is the electrical component responsible for charging your battery and powering multiple electronics. Therefore, a bad or failing alternator can be a nightmare to deal with. If you want to learn more about the alternator and how to detect a bad one, keep reading. What Are the Signs of a Bad Alternator? Dimming or flickering headlights is a common symptom drivers experience when their alternator is on its last leg. Other people may notice unusual noises coming from under the hood, typically coming from the belt next to the alternator. Some other red flags include troubled starts, burning smells, and malfunctioning accessories. If you experience any of these symptoms, please bring your car to LexBrodies Honolulu for an inspection of the alternator. How We Diagnose an Alternator Problem at LexBrodies One of our mechanics will look around under the hood, locate the alternator, and perform a test usin ... read more