TIRES, BRAKES & AUTO REPAIR

Is Rust On The Brake Rotors Dangerous?

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:30:11 GMT

Rust on brake rotors looks alarming because it screams neglect, even when the car is actually fine. The truth is rotor rust is common, and most of the time it clears quickly once the brakes are used. The real question is whether you are seeing harmless surface rust or rust that has started changing how the brakes work.

Here is how to tell which one you are dealing with.

Why Rotor Rust Shows Up So Fast

Brake rotors are bare metal, so they react to moisture and air immediately. After rain, humidity, or even a damp night, a thin orange film can form within hours. If the car sits for a couple of days, the rust can look heavier because nothing is wiping it off.

In many cases, the first few stops scrape that film away and the rotors look normal again. That is why rust can look dramatic in the driveway, then seem to disappear after one short drive.

When Rust Is Usually Harmless

If the rust is a light, even coating and the brakes feel normal, it is typically just surface rust. You might hear a faint scrape on the first stop or two, especially in the morning. The sound usually fades quickly once the pads have cleaned the rotor face.

This is especially common if the vehicle sits for long periods or only takes short trips. As long as the braking is consistent and the noise clears fast, that kind of rust is more of a nuisance than a danger.

When Rust Becomes A Real Problem

Rust becomes an issue when it stays, builds, or creates uneven rotor surfaces. Deep rust can form in areas the pads do not contact well, like the outer edge of the rotor or the inner face on some setups. Over time, that can lead to pulsation, longer stopping distances, or a brake pedal that feels uneven.

Another red flag is pitting or flaking, where the rotor surface is no longer smooth enough for the pad to grip evenly. If the car shudders when braking, pulls to one side, or makes grinding noises that do not go away after a few stops, it is time to treat it as more than surface rust.

What We Check To Decide If It Is Safe

A proper brake check looks at more than the rotor face you can see through the wheel. We measure pad thickness, look at both sides of the rotor, and check whether wear is even across the axle. We also check caliper slide movement, because a sticking caliper can leave part of the rotor rusted while another part is overheating.

One quick inspection can usually tell whether the rust will clean up with normal driving or whether the rotor surface is damaged. We also look for related issues like glazed pads, uneven contact patterns, and hardware that is not letting the pads retract properly.

Quick Checks You Can Do Before Scheduling Service

If you want to get a better read at home, start by noticing what happens after a short drive. If the scraping sound clears and braking feels steady, you are likely seeing surface rust. If the sound stays, braking feels rough, or the steering wheel shakes during stops, you may be dealing with a rotor surface issue.

These simple checks help narrow it down:

Listen for scraping that lasts more than a few stops
Notice if braking feels smooth or if the pedal pulses
Pay attention to pulling left or right while braking
Look for heavy scaling on the rotor edges, not just color on the face

If you have to slam the brakes to try to clean them up, do not. Hard stops are not a safe test method, and they can make other brake issues worse .

How To Prevent Rusty Rotors

Driving the car regularly helps because the pads keep the rotor face clean. If the vehicle sits, expect light rust, and focus on whether it clears quickly. Keeping the brakes in good condition also matters, since pads that are worn unevenly or calipers that drag can make rust patterns worse.

This is one of those areas where regular maintenance pays off quietly. A simple plan that includes periodic brake checks and timely pad replacement helps keep rotor surfaces healthier and reduces the chances of rust turning into pitting.

Get Brake Rotor Service In Multiple Locations In HI, With LexBrodies

If your rotors look rusty and you are not sure whether it is normal surface rust or something that needs attention, LexBrodies , with multiple locations in Hawaii, can check the full brake setup and tell you what is safe to drive on. We will look at pad wear, rotor condition, and caliper movement, then give you a clear plan for what to fix now versus what can wait.

Book a visit and get back to quiet, confident braking.

What Causes A New Tire To Lose Air Slowly?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:45:04 GMT

Buying a new tire feels like you should be done thinking about air pressure for a while, so a slow leak can be extra frustrating. Most of the time, the tire is not defective. It is simply losing air through a very small opening. The tricky part is that tiny leaks may take days to show a noticeable drop, especially if you only check pressure when a warning light comes on. Once you find the leak source, the fix is often simple.

If you keep topping it off, you are treating the symptom, not the cause.

Slow Air Loss Usually Comes From Three Areas

A slow leak usually comes from the tread, the valve stem area, or the seal where the tire meets the wheel. Tires do not absorb air, so if pressure drops, air is leaving somewhere. When the leak is small, you may only lose a few PSI over a week, which is enough to change braking feel and tire wear. Finding the spot matters because each area has a different safe repair path.

Small Punctures Can Happen On Day One

Road debris does not care that your tire is new. A nail or screw can land in the tread and leak slowly around the object, almost like a tiny straw. Sometimes the object stays in place, and the leak is so gentle you never see a flat, just a recurring low-pressure warning. If you spot something in the tread, leave it alone until it is checked, because pulling it out can turn a slow leak into a fast one.

Valve Stems And Valve Cores Can Seep

If the tread looks clean, look at the valve stem and the valve core inside it. The core can loosen slightly, get grit in the seal, or leak when the stem is bumped during air checks. Rubber stems can also crack where they flex, and metal TPMS-style stems can leak if a sealing washer is worn or a nut is over- or under-tightened. A quick soap-and-water test around the valve area often reveals a steady stream of tiny bubbles.

Bead Leaks Point To Wheel Or Installation Issues

The bead is the edge of the tire that seals against the wheel, and that seal depends on clean, even surfaces. Corrosion, old rubber residue, or a small nick on the rim can let air creep out even with a brand-new tire. This shows up most on older wheels or wheels that have had curb contact, because the bead seat is easy to damage without realizing it. Bead leaks usually show up as bubbling all the way around one section of the rim rather than a single point in the tread.

Temperature Swings Can Confuse The Situation

Pressure changes with temperature, so a tire set on a warm afternoon may read lower the next cool morning . That is normal and happens to every tire, but it can make a small leak look worse than it is. This is where regular maintenance helps, because tracking the pressure at the same time each day shows whether the tire is drifting down or simply reacting to weather. If one tire drops consistently faster than the others under similar conditions, you are likely dealing with a real leak.

Quick Checks Before You Refill Again

Start by writing down the cold pressure for a few days so you can see the pattern. Next, use soapy water on the tread, valve stem, and bead area, and watch for bubbles that keep growing in one spot. Check that the valve cap is present and snug, since it helps keep dirt and moisture off the core. If you still cannot pinpoint it, an inspection with proper equipment prevents repeated top-offs and reduces the chance of driving on a low tire long enough to overheat it.

Get Tire Leak Repair In Honolulu, HI With LexBrodies

At LexBrodies , our technicians can find the leak source and recommend the safest repair or replacement option for your specific tire and wheel . The visit can also include checking the bead seal and valve hardware so the fix holds up in real-world driving.

Stop by one of our shops on the island, and we will help you get back to consistent pressure and predictable handling.

5 Signs Your Tires Aren’t Safe for Wet Roads

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:45:14 GMT

Wet roads don’t forgive worn tires. A tire that feels fine on dry pavement can lose its grip fast when there’s standing water, oily film, or that first rain after a long dry stretch. The tricky part is that tire problems often show up as small changes you can talk yourself out of. Then the next rainy drive feels sketchy, and you realize the tires have been trying to warn you for a while.

If you know what to look for, you can catch it before a wet-road slip turns into a close call.

Why Wet Roads Expose Tire Problems First

On dry pavement, even a tired tire can hang on because there’s more friction to work with. In the rain, tread depth and tread design matter a lot more because the tire has to push water out of the way to stay in contact with the road. If it can’t, it rides on a thin layer of water, and you get that floating feeling.

Hawaii roads can be a perfect example of why this matters. Quick weather changes, warm pavement, and sudden downpours can create slick conditions fast, especially on highways, bridges, and areas where water collects.

1. The Tread Looks Low Or Uneven Across The Tire

If you can see the tread is getting shallow, take that seriously in wet weather. The channels in the tread are what move water, so less depth means less ability to clear water. Uneven wear is just as important. If the inside edge is worn down or the center looks more bald than the sides, the tire won’t behave consistently in the rain.

A simple check is looking at the wear bars. If the tread is close to the wear bars, wet traction is already compromised, even if the tire still passes a quick glance test.

2. You Feel The Car Glide Or Get Light Through Puddles

If you hit standing water and the steering suddenly feels light, that’s your warning sign. Hydroplaning doesn’t have to be dramatic to be dangerous. Even a brief loss of steering feel is telling you the tire can’t evacuate water well at that speed .

Pay attention to whether it’s happening more often than it used to. If you find yourself slowing down a lot more in the rain just to feel comfortable, the tires may be the reason.

3. Longer Stopping Distances In Rain

Braking on wet roads is where weak tires really show themselves. If you notice the car needs more distance to stop smoothly in the rain, or the ABS kicks in more easily than it used to, the tread and rubber condition may be part of the problem. Some tires harden with age, even if the tread still looks decent, and harder rubber usually means less grip in wet conditions.

This is also why “it still has tread” isn’t always the full story. A tire can have tread left and still perform poorly on wet pavement if the rubber has aged.

4. The Steering Feels Nervous Or The Car Wanders In The Rain

A good tire feels planted. A worn tire can feel twitchy, especially on grooved pavement or in heavier rain. If you notice the car wandering in its lane, requiring extra small corrections, or feeling unstable in crosswinds when it’s wet, that’s worth paying attention to.

Sometimes alignment or suspension wear plays a role, but if the symptoms show up mostly in wet weather, tires move high on the suspect list .

5. Cracks, Bulges, Or A Tire That Just Looks Tired

Sidewall cracks, dry rot, and bulges are not cosmetic issues. Cracks can mean the rubber is aging, and bulges can indicate internal damage from impacts. Either one can make wet-road grip less predictable, and bulges in particular can fail without much warning.

If you see cracking around the sidewall or between tread blocks, or if one tire looks different than the rest, it’s worth having it inspected. We’ve seen plenty of tires that looked “okay enough” until someone looked closely.

Owner Mistakes That Make Wet Weather Driving Riskier

One big mistake is running low tire pressure. Underinflation makes tires run hotter and can reduce stability and wet grip. It also increases the chance of uneven wear. Another mistake is mixing very different tire types front to rear. Even if the sizes match, different tread patterns and rubber compounds can make the car behave strangely in the rain.

Waiting too long is the other one. Once the tread is worn down, you can’t get that wet traction back. Rotations and alignments help tires last longer, but they can’t restore grip to a worn-out tire.

A Practical Plan Before The Next Rainy Drive

Start with a quick tread and pressure check. Look at all four tires, not just the fronts. If you have a gauge, set the pressures to the door sticker. If the tread looks low or uneven, plan for replacement sooner rather than later. If you’re not sure, an inspection can tell you whether you’re dealing with simple wear, alignment-related wear, or a tire that has aged out.

We tell drivers this all the time because it’s true: on wet roads, tires are your main safety equipment. Brakes help, but tires are what give the brakes something to work with.

Get Tire Service in Hawaii with LexBrodies

If you’re noticing longer stops in the rain, a light steering feel through puddles, or tread that’s getting low or uneven, it’s worth getting your tires checked before the next storm hits. We can inspect tread depth, check pressure, look for uneven wear, and help you choose tires that make wet roads feel predictable again.

Schedule tire service in Hawaii with LexBrodies , and let’s get you back to confident traction when the roads are slick.

What to Do When Your Steering Wheel Vibrates at Highway Speed

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:00:04 GMT

When the steering wheel starts to shake at highway speed, it can turn an easy drive into a tense one. The vibration may be light at first, then suddenly feel stronger on certain stretches of road. Sometimes it shows up only around one speed, other times it sticks around any time you get above city traffic.

That shaking is usually your car’s way of saying the wheels, tires, or suspension are not working together the way they should.

What Highway Steering Vibration Feels Like

Highway-speed vibration has a few common patterns. You might feel a steady buzz through the wheel between 55 and 70 mph that fades below or above that range. In other cases, the wheel shakes hardest when you brake from highway speeds, especially on long downhill ramps. Some drivers notice the seat and floor shaking along with the wheel, which often means the rear tires or suspension are involved as well.

Symptom Timeline: How Vibration Usually Gets Worse

Most steering vibration starts small. At first, it may feel like a slight shimmy on certain road surfaces or at a very specific speed. Over time, as tires wear and suspension parts loosen, the shake spreads across a wider speed range and becomes easier to feel. By the time you can see the steering wheel shaking with your eyes, the issue has usually moved past a simple balance problem.

Common Causes of Steering Wheel Vibration at Speed

Several systems can create vibration that shows up in the steering, often working together. Some of the usual suspects include:

Tires that are out of balance or have lost a wheel weight
Bent wheels from potholes, curbs, or rough roads
Uneven or cupped tire wear from worn shocks, struts, or poor alignment
Warped brake rotors that make the wheel shake when braking at speed
Loose or worn suspension and steering parts such as tie rod ends or ball joints

Test-Drive Cues You Can Pay Attention To

Without tools, you can still collect details that help a technician pinpoint the problem. On a safe, straight highway, notice:

The speed range where the vibration starts, peaks, and fades
Whether it changes when you lightly apply the brakes
If it gets better or worse when you change lanes or drive on a smoother section
Whether you feel it mostly in the steering wheel, the seat, or the whole body
Any pulsing in the pedal that lines up with the shake in the wheel

Sharing these observations gives us a head start and often cuts down on diagnostic time.

Owner Habits That Make Steering Vibration Worse

Everyday driving patterns play a big role in how quickly small imbalances turn into obvious shakes. Common habits that make vibration problems show up sooner include:

Hitting potholes, speed bumps, or driveway lips faster than necessary
Driving for months with tires that are underinflated or never rotated
Ignoring minor pulls, noises, or shimmy that started after a curb strike
Loading the vehicle heavily without checking tire pressures or alignment
Putting off suspension and alignment checks when installing new tires

These habits do not always cause the first problem, but they let small issues snowball until the vibration is hard to ignore.

When Steering Vibration Becomes a Real Safety Concern

A light, barely noticeable buzz at one speed can sometimes wait for your next scheduled visit, but there are clear signs you should not ignore. If the steering wheel jerks or shudders when you brake at highway speed , if the car pulls to one side, or if the vibration is strong enough to blur the mirrors, it is time for a prompt inspection.

Any clunks, knocks, or play in the steering along with the vibration suggest that parts may be loose or worn, which can affect your ability to control the vehicle in an emergency. The sooner those issues are found, the better chance you have of fixing them before they damage tires, wheels, or other suspension components.

Get Steering Vibration Repair in Honolulu, HI with LexBrodies

We diagnose steering wheel vibration every day and know how to tell a simple balance issue from a more serious suspension or brake problem. We can road test your car, check tires, wheels, and alignment, and inspect critical steering parts so you know exactly what needs attention.

Call LexBrodies in Honolulu, HI to schedule a steering vibration inspection and get your highway drive feeling smooth and confident again.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

How a Dirty Cabin Air Filter Affects The A/C And Air Quality Inside Your Car

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 18:15:02 GMT

Hawaii’s mix of salt air, volcanic dust, and lush pollen makes car cabins feel stale faster than most places. Your cabin air filter is the gatekeeper that keeps that stuff out of your lungs and off your dashboard. When it clogs, the A/C has to work harder, airflow weakens, and the air you breathe feels musty even with the fan on high.

A simple filter change can restore crisp airflow and a cleaner, calmer cabin.

What the Cabin Air Filter Actually Does

The cabin filter sits in the HVAC intake path, usually behind the glove box or under the cowl at the base of the windshield. Its job is to trap dust, pollen, soot, and fine debris before air passes across the evaporator and into the vents. Many filters also catch salt crystals and small volcanic particulates that ride the ocean breeze. With a fresh filter, your A/C can move more air with less effort, which helps defog windows faster and keeps the blower fan quiet.

How a Clogged Filter Hurts A/C Performance

Air conditioning removes heat and moisture as cabin air crosses the cold evaporator. A clogged filter restricts that airflow, so less air touches the cold surface each second. The result is weak vent output, longer cool-down times, and a defroster that feels sluggish on humid mornings. The blower motor also has to spin faster to push air through the blockage, which can make it noisy and shorten its life. In severe cases, restricted flow lets condensation linger on the evaporator, encouraging that stubborn “wet sock” smell.

Air Quality, Allergies, and Odors

When filtration falls behind, more irritants slip through. Pollen and dust can trigger sneezing and itchy eyes, especially during trade-wind days when trees shed heavily. Salt-laden air brings a faint metallic odor and leaves residue on glass, which makes nighttime glare worse. A clean filter reduces the load of particles your cabin has to deal with, and an activated charcoal layer can cut common traffic and marina odors so the interior smells neutral instead of musty.

Common Signs Your Cabin Filter Is Due

Fan speed feels normal, but airflow from the vents is weak
Defroster takes longer to clear a fogged windshield
Musty odor on startup that fades as the car warms
Visible dust lines on the dash soon after cleaning
Increased fan noise at higher speeds without more air

If you notice two or more of these, the filter likely needs attention even if the mileage seems low.

Paper vs. Charcoal vs. HEPA: Which Filter Fits Your Needs

Standard paper filters capture the bulk of dust and pollen and are the economical choice for most drivers. Activated charcoal filters add a carbon layer that absorbs odors and some gas-phase pollutants; they are a smart upgrade if you park near the ocean, commute in traffic, or haul wet beach gear often. Premium HEPA-style cabin filters trap finer particles, which can help allergy-prone passengers. They may restrict airflow slightly earlier as they load, so plan to check them a bit more frequently.

Simple DIY Checks (And When to Leave It to Us)

Many vehicles make inspection easy: drop the glove box, release a cover, and slide the filter out. If the pleats are gray and matted, or you find leaves and grit, replacement is due. Pay attention to the airflow arrow when installing the new one. On cars with tight glove box hinges or fragile clips, it is reasonable to have a technician handle the swap to avoid broken tabs or a misaligned door that rattles later. If the odor persists after a new filter, the evaporator likely needs a gentle cleaning to remove organic film.

Why Hawaii’s Climate Shortens Filter Life

Moist trade winds carry salt and fine spray that cling to the filter media. Add bursts of vog and plant pollen, and the pleats load up faster than in a dry inland climate. Beach trips bring sand in the cowl intake, and wet towels in the cabin add humidity. For many island drivers, a time-based schedule is more reliable than mileage alone. If you drive on dusty back roads, park outdoors near the shore, or run your A/C daily, inspecting it every six months helps keep the airflow healthy .

Pair Filter Service with an Evaporator and Drain Check

The cabin filter, evaporator coil, and A/C drain work together . A saturated or dirty filter slows airflow, which leaves condensation on the coil longer. That moisture can mix with trapped dust to form a film that smells when you first start the car. A quick evaporator cleaning breaks down the film, and verifying that the drain drips freely prevents water from pooling in the HVAC box. This combo with a fresh filter usually restores clean scent, strong airflow, and faster defogging within a day.

Breathe Easier with LexBrodies in Hawaii

If your A/C feels weak, smells musty, or struggles to clear fogged glass, we can help. Our team checks and replaces cabin air filters, cleans evaporators, and verifies A/C drains so moisture and odors do not return.

Schedule a visit with LexBrodies in one of our four Hawaii locations, and we will bring back crisp airflow, fresher cabin air, and a quieter, more comfortable ride for every island drive.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

How to Identify a Bad Wheel Bearing Before It Seizes Up

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:30:01 GMT

Your vehicle’s wheel bearings help your wheels rotate smoothly with minimal friction. Housed inside the hub assembly, these bearings support the entire weight of your vehicle while allowing the wheels to spin freely. When one begins to fail, it can lead to strange noises, reduced handling, and even safety issues if ignored too long. A seized bearing is a serious risk that can leave you stranded or cause damage to surrounding parts.

Knowing how to spot the early signs of a bad wheel bearing can help you avoid more costly repairs and stay safe on the road.

How a Wheel Bearing Works

Each wheel on your car spins on a hub, and inside that hub is a tightly packed set of ball bearings or tapered rollers. These components allow the wheel to rotate smoothly around the axle while supporting the weight of the vehicle. The bearing is sealed to keep out dirt and moisture, but over time, those seals can wear out. When this happens, contaminants get inside, causing the bearing to wear down or overheat.

Most vehicles today use sealed bearing assemblies that aren’t serviceable, meaning the entire unit must be replaced once it fails.

Common Early Signs of a Failing Bearing

Wheel bearings usually fail gradually, which gives you some time to catch the issue early if you know what to look for. Here are the most common symptoms:

1. Humming or Growling Noises

One of the first signs is a low growling or humming noise that increases with speed. It might sound like a tire issue at first, but if the sound gets louder as you turn or shifts from side to side when cornering, it’s more likely the bearing.

2. Vibration Through the Steering Wheel

A worn-out bearing can cause small amounts of play in the wheel hub, leading to vibrations. These vibrations may be subtle at first, but they usually become more noticeable as the problem gets worse.

3. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

While several things can cause uneven tire wear, a failing wheel bearing is one of them. If the bearing is loose or damaged, it can cause the wheel to wobble slightly, leading to uneven tread wear over time.

4. Clicking or Snapping Sounds When Turning

If the bearing is severely worn, you may hear clicking, snapping, or even popping noises when you turn sharply. These sounds indicate more serious internal damage and mean the bearing may be close to failing completely.

5. ABS or Traction Control Warning Light

On many vehicles, the wheel speed sensor is integrated into the hub assembly. When a bearing starts to fail, the sensor may lose accurate readings, which can trigger the ABS or traction control warning light. While it might not always mean the bearing is the cause, it’s something worth checking.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

A faulty wheel bearing is not only noisy, but it can also significantly impact the safety and drivability of your vehicle. As it continues to degrade, it can lead to:

Increased friction and heat, which can damage the axle or hub
Sudden lock-up of the wheel in extreme cases
Excessive wear on other suspension or braking components

If the bearing seizes while driving, it could cause the wheel to stop turning altogether, creating a hazardous situation, especially at high speeds.

How to Confirm the Problem

If you suspect a bad bearing, our technicians can inspect the hub by lifting the vehicle and manually rotating or wiggling the wheel. A worn bearing often creates a grinding feeling when the wheel is spun by hand, or it may have noticeable play when pushed side to side.

We also use diagnostic equipment to detect noise and vibration at each wheel while the car is on a lift. This helps confirm the location of the failing bearing.

Can You Keep Driving With a Bad Wheel Bearing

Technically, you can, but you really shouldn’t. The longer you wait, the more damage it can cause. What might have been a straightforward repair could turn into a multi-part job involving axles, rotors, or even the steering knuckle if the bearing completely seizes or breaks apart.

Driving on a worn bearing also puts added stress on your tires and suspension system. If caught early, you can often replace just the affected hub without additional parts or labor.

Stay Safe With Wheel Bearing Inspections at LexBrodies in Hawaii

If you’ve noticed strange sounds, vibration, or warning lights while driving, don’t ignore the signs. At LexBrodies in Hawaii, our technicians will inspect your wheel bearings and suspension components, diagnose the issue accurately, and make repairs before things get worse. A quick check today could prevent a breakdown tomorrow.

Schedule your service now in one of our four locations across the island and keep your ride safe and smooth for every mile ahead.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

How to Stay Calm Behind the Wheel During Honolulu’s Rush Hour

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 14:30:08 GMT

Driving in Honolulu can be stressful, especially during peak traffic hours when the roads are packed and patience wears thin. Between merging lanes, unpredictable drivers, and endless stop-and-go movement, it’s easy to feel frustrated. But staying calm behind the wheel isn’t just better for your mood, but also makes you a safer, more focused driver. With the right mindset and a few practical strategies, you can navigate rush hour with less stress and more confidence.

Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Before heading out, take a few minutes to check traffic conditions and plan your route. Apps and GPS systems can help you avoid heavy congestion or accidents, giving you alternative paths that save time and reduce frustration.

In Honolulu, where traffic patterns can shift quickly, knowing your options makes a big difference. Even if you can’t avoid delays entirely, being prepared helps you stay in control rather than feeling stuck in the chaos.

Give Yourself Extra Time

One of the biggest sources of driving stress is running late. If you know you’ll be on the road during peak hours, leave earlier than usual. Building in extra time reduces the pressure to rush, making it easier to drive defensively and stay calm.

When you’re not constantly watching the clock, you’ll find it easier to let small delays roll off your shoulders.

Manage Your Space on the Road

Heavy traffic can make it tempting to drive closely behind the car in front of you, but tailgating only increases frustration and risk. Maintaining a safe following distance gives you more time to react if someone brakes suddenly.

Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping an open space around your vehicle also helps you avoid unnecessary lane changes or sudden maneuvers, which are common sources of stress during rush hour.

Use Your In-Car Environment to Your Advantage

Your driving environment plays a big role in your stress levels. Small changes inside your vehicle can make a noticeable difference:

Set the temperature to a comfortable level
Play relaxing music or a favorite podcast
Keep your phone out of sight to avoid distractions

These adjustments create a calmer atmosphere and help you focus on the road instead of the frustration around you.

Practice Patience With Other Drivers

In dense traffic, you’ll often encounter sudden lane changes, slow merges, or distracted drivers. While it’s tempting to react, staying patient keeps you safer and less stressed.

Remember that everyone is trying to get somewhere, just like you. Avoid unnecessary honking and aggressive driving, because it only raises tension and doesn’t get you there any faster.

Know When to Take a Break

If traffic is crawling and you feel your stress levels climbing, it can help to take a short break. Pulling into a safe spot, stepping out for fresh air, or grabbing a quick coffee can reset your mood and keep frustration from building.

Driving while tense or irritated affects focus and reaction time, so even a five-minute pause can make a big difference in your safety and comfort.

Keep Your Vehicle in Top Shape

Unreliable brakes, weak air conditioning, or mechanical issues can make an already stressful commute even worse. Routine maintenance ensures your vehicle responds smoothly in heavy traffic, keeping you confident behind the wheel.

From tire inspections to brake checks , staying on top of basic services helps prevent surprises on the road. When you know your car is in good shape, it’s one less thing to worry about during Honolulu’s busiest hours.

Stay Relaxed With Help From LexBrodies in Hawaii

At LexBrodies in Hawaii, we know how demanding driving in Honolulu’s traffic can be. Keeping your vehicle well-maintained is one of the best ways to reduce stress and stay safe, no matter how congested the roads get. From inspections and tune-ups to brake and tire services , our team makes sure your car is ready for whatever rush hour throws your way.

Schedule your service today in one of our 4 locations across the island and drive through Honolulu with confidence.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

Can a Repair Shop’s Rewards Program Really Save You Money on Car Maintenance?

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the costs can add up, especially if you’re staying on top of oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, and other regular services. That’s why many drivers are interested in reward programs offered by auto repair shops. These loyalty plans are often marketed as a way to help customers save money while encouraging consistent care for their vehicles. But are they worth it?

Let’s explore how these programs work and what to consider if you’re thinking about joining one.

What Is a Vehicle Service Rewards Program

A rewards program is a customer loyalty system offered by some auto shops to thank returning clients and promote regular maintenance. These programs vary, but they typically allow customers to earn points or discounts for services performed. You may receive a punch card, digital account, or branded membership card to track your visits and rewards.

Most reward programs are free to join, although some offer paid premium tiers that unlock additional perks, such as priority scheduling or extended warranties.

How These Programs Can Save You Money

The most obvious benefit of a rewards program is the opportunity to save on future maintenance or repairs. Here are a few ways these savings add up over time:

Discounts on routine services like oil changes, brake inspections, or tire rotations

Bonus points that accumulate and convert into service credits
Special member pricing on select repairs or parts
Free services after a certain number of visits, such as a complimentary tire rotation or diagnostic check

These savings can be especially beneficial for drivers who closely follow their maintenance schedules and plan to use the same trusted shop in the long term.

Encouraging Preventative Maintenance

One of the indirect ways a rewards program benefits drivers is by promoting regular upkeep. When you know you’re earning points or approaching a free service, it becomes easier to stay on track with vehicle maintenance.

Consistent care helps prevent larger, more expensive problems from developing. For example, catching a worn belt early or replacing brake pads before they wear too thin can save you from costly repairs later on. In this way, a rewards program helps your car and your wallet.

How to Know If a Program Is Worth It

Not all rewards programs are created equal, so it’s important to review the details before signing up. Here are a few things to consider:

Transparency: Are the benefits clearly explained? You should know exactly how points are earned and redeemed.
Ease of Use: Can you access your account or punch card easily? If it’s too difficult to track rewards, the value may be lost.
Expiration Dates: Check if your points or discounts expire after a certain period.
Eligible Services: Some discounts may apply only to specific services or parts.
Commitment Requirements: Make sure there are no hidden obligations or service minimums.

It’s also wise to compare programs between local shops if you have more than one option nearby. Even small differences in structure or savings can make a program more or less appealing.

Who Benefits the Most

If you’re someone who follows the recommended service intervals and plans to return to the same shop regularly, a rewards program can provide ongoing value. Drivers with multiple vehicles, families with teenage drivers, or anyone who puts a lot of miles on their car each year will likely benefit the most.

However, if you move frequently or only visit a shop once or twice a year, the benefits may not outweigh the effort.

Ask Your Local Shop What They Offer

If your favorite auto repair shop hasn’t mentioned a rewards program, it’s worth asking. Some shops quietly offer programs that they don’t heavily promote but are happy to enroll loyal customers into. Others may run seasonal promotions or combine rewards with referral bonuses or coupons.

Even without a formal program, some shops may offer consistent customers extra perks like priority scheduling or discounted diagnostics—especially if you’ve built a good relationship with your technician.

Trust LexBrodies in Hawaii to Help You Save on Reliable Car Care

At LexBrodies , with four convenient locations across Hawaii, we believe in rewarding our loyal customers with real savings and dependable service. Our rewards program is designed to make essential maintenance more affordable, all while helping you stay on top of your car’s care needs.

Whether you're in for an oil change, brake repair, or multi-point inspection, let our team show you how maintenance and value can go hand in hand. Ask about our rewards program during your next visit and experience the benefits of expert auto care that puts you first.

Your car deserves top-quality service—and you deserve to save while keeping it running strong.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

What’s the Difference Between a Basic and Full Synthetic Oil Change?

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:00:18 GMT

Oil changes are one of the simplest and most important ways to protect your engine and keep your vehicle running smoothly. When it’s time for service, you might be presented with different options: a basic oil change or a full synthetic oil change. Understanding the difference between these choices can help you make the best decision for your car and your driving habits.

What Does Engine Oil Do

Before diving into the types of oil, it’s essential to understand why oil is important. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts inside your engine, reducing friction and heat. It also helps remove contaminants and protect against corrosion. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to do these jobs effectively, which is why regular oil changes are necessary.

What Is a Basic Oil Change

A basic oil change usually involves using conventional (mineral-based) oil. This type of oil is refined from crude oil and has been the standard for many years. It provides adequate protection and lubrication for most engines, especially in older vehicles or cars driven under normal conditions.

Conventional oil is often the more affordable option, making it appealing to drivers who want to keep maintenance costs down. However, it typically requires more frequent changes, usually every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on driving habits and manufacturer recommendations.

What Is a Full Synthetic Oil Change

A full synthetic oil change uses oil that is chemically engineered for higher performance. Synthetic oil is designed to offer better lubrication, improved stability in extreme temperatures, and enhanced protection against engine deposits and sludge.

Because of these benefits, synthetic oil usually lasts longer than conventional oil. Many manufacturers recommend oil change intervals between 7,500 and 10,000 miles for vehicles using full synthetic oil, which means fewer trips to the shop.

Key Differences Between Basic and Full Synthetic Oil

While both types of oil serve the same fundamental purpose, they differ significantly in performance and longevity. Synthetic oil resists breaking down under high heat and provides more consistent protection across a wide range of temperatures. This makes it an excellent choice for modern engines, especially those with turbochargers or high-performance designs.

Conventional oil, on the other hand, can be more prone to thickening in cold weather and breaking down faster in hot conditions. If you often drive in extreme temperatures or do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, synthetic oil can offer added peace of mind.

Which Option Is Better for Your Vehicle

Choosing between basic and synthetic oil depends on several factors, including your vehicle type, your driving style, and manufacturer recommendations. Many newer vehicles are designed to run on synthetic oil to meet efficiency and performance standards.

If you drive an older vehicle with a simpler engine design, conventional oil might still be a suitable and cost-effective option. However, if you value long-term engine protection, better performance, and fewer oil changes, full synthetic oil is often worth the investment.

Cost Considerations

One reason some drivers hesitate to choose synthetic oil is the higher upfront cost. A synthetic oil change usually costs more than a conventional one. However, because synthetic oil lasts longer and provides better protection, it can actually save money over time by reducing engine wear and extending intervals between changes.

Additionally, investing in higher-quality oil helps prevent costly repairs down the line, as it keeps your engine cleaner and reduces the risk of damage from heat and friction.

Why Regular Oil Changes Are Necessary

Regardless of which type of oil you choose, sticking to a regular oil change schedule is critical. Delaying oil changes can lead to increased engine wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially severe engine damage. Keeping up with oil service helps maintain your vehicle’s reliability, performance, and resale value.

Checking your oil level periodically and paying attention to warning lights or changes in engine noise are also good habits to adopt. Addressing any issues early ensures your engine continues to run at its best.

Schedule Your Oil Change at LexBrodies in Hawaii

Whether you decide on a basic oil change or opt for the benefits of full synthetic, keeping your oil fresh is one of the best ways to protect your engine. The team at LexBrodies in Hawaii (with locations on multiple islands) can help you choose the right option for your car and ensure the job is done professionally. Schedule your oil change today and keep your engine running smoothly, mile after mile.

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

What Is the Fixed Forever Brake Repair at Lex Brodie’s?

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:00:01 GMT

Brake repairs are one of the most common services drivers face, and the costs can add up over the years, especially if you're replacing the same components more than once. That's where Lex Brodie’s Fixed Forever Brake Repair comes in. This unique program offers peace of mind by eliminating the need to pay for the same brake job twice.

So what exactly does “Fixed Forever” mean, and how does it benefit drivers across Hawaii? Let’s take a closer look at how this brake service program works and why it stands out.

What Makes the Fixed Forever Brake Repair Different

Most brake repairs come with a limited warranty that covers parts and labor for a period of one to two years. Lex Brodie’s goes far beyond that. With the Fixed Forever Brake Repair, the shop guarantees to replace your brake pads or shoes at no cost for as long as you own your vehicle.

This isn’t just about a manufacturer’s parts warranty. It’s a full commitment from the shop to handle future brake pad replacements free of charge, including the labor involved. You pay for the initial repair once, and that’s it.

What’s Included in the Program

The program covers the brake pads or brake shoes installed during the original brake repair. If they wear out again under normal driving conditions, they’ll be replaced at no cost. There’s no limit to how many times you can return for replacements as long as the other components, like rotors and calipers, are still in good working condition.

Of course, if additional components like rotors need replacing, that would still involve a charge. But the core promise is that you’ll never pay for brake pads again on that vehicle.

Why This Program Benefits Local Drivers

In a place like Hawaii, where stop-and-go traffic is common and mountainous terrain can stress braking systems, brake wear happens faster than you might expect. That’s what makes this kind of guarantee so valuable. Drivers who plan to keep their vehicle for several years will likely save hundreds of dollars over time by avoiding repeat brake pad replacements.

The program also encourages routine inspections and maintenance. If you're returning to Lex Brodie’s for brake checks, it helps catch wear before it becomes a more expensive issue—protecting your rotors and extending the life of the entire brake system.

What You Need to Know Before Signing Up

To be eligible for the Fixed Forever Brake Repair, you’ll need to follow some basic maintenance guidelines and return to Lex Brodie’s locations for brake-related services. The program is designed for personal-use vehicles under normal driving conditions. Commercial vehicles or those used for racing or towing may not qualify.

It’s also important to remember that while the pads or shoes are covered, other parts of the braking system may still wear out and require separate repairs. Keeping the rest of your system in good condition ensures you get the full value of the program.

Lex Brodie’s – Long-Term Value and Reliable Brake Repairs in Hawaii

With four locations across Hawaii, Lex Brodie’s offers local drivers a smart, long-term solution to brake maintenance. The Fixed Forever Brake Repair is more than just a catchy name—it’s a promise to help you drive with confidence and keep your brake system in top shape without repeated expenses.

Schedule your brake service today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're covered for the road ahead. Visit us at one of our locations:

701 Queen Street Honolulu, HI
98-115 Kamehameha Highway Aiea, HI
94-169 Farrington Highway Waipahu, HI
46-158 Malina Place Kaneohe, HI

What to Do When I See Oil Under My Car

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:00:02 GMT

Finding a dark puddle under your car can stop you in your tracks—especially when you realize it’s oil. Whether it's a few drops or a full-on stain, seeing oil under your vehicle usually brings up the same questions: How serious is it? Is it safe to keep driving? And what should you do next?

While not every oil leak is a sign of disaster, ignoring one can lead to much bigger problems. Here’s how to tell what you’re dealing with and what steps you should take if you spot oil under your car.

Start with a Quick Check

The first thing to do is confirm that the fluid is actually motor oil. Engine oil tends to be amber or honey-colored when fresh, and dark brown or black when old. It has a slick feel between your fingers and doesn’t evaporate like water or smell like fuel.

You’ll usually find it dripping from the area beneath the engine—generally toward the front or middle of the vehicle. If the spot is more reddish or pink and located farther back, it could be transmission fluid or power steering fluid. But if it’s thick, dark, and clearly oil-based, engine oil is the most likely culprit.

Look for Other Signs While Driving

Once you’ve noticed a leak, pay attention to how your vehicle is running. If you start to hear louder engine noise, smell burning oil, or see the oil pressure warning light come on, it means the issue is getting worse. Oil is essential for keeping your engine cool and lubricated—running low can cause friction, overheating, and eventually internal damage.

You may also notice oil smoke if the leak is dripping onto a hot exhaust component. That smoke usually has a sharp, burnt smell and is a sign the leak needs immediate attention.

Common Leak Sources

Oil can escape from several different points in the engine. Some of the most common include:

The oil pan gasket at the bottom of the engine
The valve cover gasket at the top of the engine
The oil filter or drain plug (especially right after an oil change)
The front and rear main seals (more common in high-mileage vehicles)

In some cases, the leak is small and slow—but even a minor leak can cause problems over time. Not only can it lower your oil level, but it can also create buildup on engine components, cause rubber parts to degrade, and even become a fire hazard if it collects near ignition sources.

When to Worry and When It’s Urgent

A few drops of oil now and then may not seem like much, especially if your car’s running fine. But leaks rarely stay small. If you’re having to top off your oil more frequently, or if the puddle under your car keeps getting bigger, it’s a sign that the problem is growing.

If the oil warning light turns on while driving or the engine temperature starts climbing, pull over and shut off the engine. Continuing to drive in this condition can lead to serious engine damage—especially in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic, like we often see around Honolulu and other Hawaiian cities.

Document What You’re Seeing

If possible, take a photo of the spot or puddle and note where and when you see it. If you’re adding oil between trips, jot down how much and how often. This information can be helpful for us when diagnosing the leak and estimating how quickly the oil is being lost.

LexBrodies – Trusted Oil Leak Repair in Honolulu and Across Hawaii

At LexBrodies , we’ve helped drivers all over Hawaii—from Honolulu to our other island locations—deal with engine oil leaks, big and small. If you’ve noticed a spot under your car or your oil levels are dropping faster than usual, our team can pinpoint the problem and recommend the right fix. Don’t wait for a small leak to become a major engine issue—schedule an inspection today and drive with confidence.

What’s Causing That Loud Humming Sound From My Tires?

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:00:12 GMT

That low, steady humming sound while driving might seem harmless at first, but it could be your car’s way of saying something’s wrong—especially if it gets louder as you speed up. Tire noise is common, but when it turns into a noticeable hum, it’s usually a sign of uneven wear, alignment problems, or even a wheel bearing issue.

With four LexBrodies locations across Hawaii, we see this issue often—especially on island roads where conditions can change quickly between city streets and winding coastal highways. Here’s what might be behind that hum, and what you can do about it.

Uneven Tire Wear

The most common cause of tire humming is uneven wear on the tread. When tires wear unevenly—either due to poor alignment, underinflation, or suspension issues—they develop irregular surfaces that make more noise as they roll.

You might hear the hum only at certain speeds or only from a specific side of the car. If your tires feel fine but still hum, run your hand over the tread—if you feel high and low spots, cupping, or feathered edges, that’s likely your problem.

Misaligned wheels or neglected rotations are usually to blame, and while the tire may still be safe to drive on for a bit, the noise will only get worse unless the root cause is fixed.

Wheel Bearings

If the humming sound is more of a low growl that gets louder the faster you go—and especially if it seems to come from one corner of the car—it could be a worn wheel bearing.

Wheel bearings allow your wheels to spin freely while supporting the vehicle’s weight. When they wear out, they create friction that produces a humming or grinding sound. The noise often changes when you turn left or right, and it won’t go away if you rotate the tires.

Unlike uneven tire wear, a bad wheel bearing is a safety issue and should be repaired right away. If left alone, it can lead to vibration, steering issues, or even a wheel coming loose in extreme cases.

Tire Type and Road Conditions

Not all tire noise means something’s broken. Some tires are just naturally louder—especially off-road or performance tires with aggressive tread patterns. These tires hum more on smooth pavement simply because of the way they’re designed.

Certain roads also amplify tire noise more than others. Fresh asphalt tends to be quiet, while older, coarse pavement can make even quiet tires sound louder. But if you’ve had the same tires for a while and the noise just started, that’s a strong clue something has changed.

Can Tire Service Help

Absolutely—imbalanced tires can create vibration and noise, especially at highway speeds. If the hum is accompanied by a steering wheel that shakes or a car that feels unsettled on smooth roads, a tire balance check is a smart move.

It’s quick, inexpensive, and often solves the problem if it turns out your tires are just a little out of balance. However, if the hum remains, further inspection may be needed to rule out suspension wear or internal tire damage.

How to Prevent Humming in the Future

Routine maintenance is the best way to keep tire noise at bay. That means:

Rotating your tires regularly (every 5,000–7,000 miles)
Checking tire pressure monthly
Aligning your wheels annually or after a hard hit
Inspecting suspension components for looseness or wear

Also, replacing tires before they’re too worn reduces the chance of developing noise-causing wear patterns. Once a tire starts to hum due to uneven wear, the noise usually doesn’t go away—even if you fix the alignment.

Hearing a hum that wasn’t there before? Stop by any of our four LexBrodies locations in Hawaii for a full tire inspection. We’ll check for uneven wear, alignment issues, bearing problems, and more—so you can drive in peace again.

Island Life, Island Driving: How to Maintain Your Car in Honolulu

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:20:59 GMT

Living in Honolulu means year-round sunshine, salty ocean air, and occasional tropical rain showers—all of which can take a toll on your car. Island driving may not involve extreme cold or long highway commutes, but the unique climate and road conditions in Hawaii present their own set of challenges. Whether you’re cruising down Kalakaua Avenue or navigating the winding roads to the North Shore, keeping up with vehicle maintenance is key to ensuring a reliable and long-lasting ride. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your car in Honolulu’s unique environment.

Combatting the Effects of Salt Air and Humidity

The ocean breeze may be refreshing, but the salt in the air can lead to premature rust and corrosion on your car’s body, undercarriage, and even engine components. Regular washing is one of the best ways to prevent salt buildup, especially if you live near the coast or frequently park in open areas.

Applying a protective wax or sealant after washing adds an extra barrier against moisture and salt, reducing the risk of paint damage. It’s also a good idea to rinse off your car’s undercarriage every couple of weeks, as this is where salt and sand tend to accumulate unnoticed.

Keep Your Engine and Cooling System in Top Shape

Honolulu’s warm temperatures and stop-and-go traffic can put stress on your engine and cooling system. Overheating is a common issue in tropical climates, making it crucial to check your coolant levels regularly and ensure that your radiator is in good condition. If your temperature gauge rises unexpectedly or you notice coolant leaks, have your vehicle inspected before small problems turn into costly repairs.

Frequent oil changes are also essential, as high humidity and salt exposure can cause engine oil to break down faster. Sticking to your manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals will help keep your engine running efficiently in island conditions.

Tire Maintenance for Honolulu’s Roads

Hawaiian roads vary from well-paved city streets to rougher, pothole-filled backroads, which means tire maintenance should never be overlooked. Hot pavement and frequent braking can wear down tires faster than you might expect. Checking your tire pressure at least once a month helps maintain fuel efficiency and prevents uneven wear.

If you enjoy weekend trips to hiking trails or beaches with unpaved roads, inspect your tires for embedded rocks, cracks, or punctures. Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles will extend their lifespan and improve overall handling on both city streets and rugged terrain.

Brake and Suspension Care for Smooth Island Driving

Honolulu’s roads can be unpredictable, with sudden traffic stops, hilly inclines, and the occasional surprise pothole. Your brakes and suspension play a huge role in handling these conditions safely. Brake pads wear down faster in areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic, so listen for squeaking, grinding, or a soft brake pedal—these are signs that it’s time for a brake inspection.

Your suspension system also takes a hit when navigating rough roads. If your car feels bouncy, drifts during turns, or dips forward when braking, your shocks and struts may need attention. Regular inspections ensure a comfortable and stable ride, even on Honolulu’s less-than-perfect roads.

Protecting Your Car from Sun Damage

The Hawaiian sun is beautiful, but its UV rays can fade paint, crack dashboards, and even damage interior upholstery over time. Parking in shaded areas or using a sunshade helps protect your car’s interior from sun exposure. Applying UV protectant sprays to your dashboard and seats can prevent cracking and fading, especially if you have leather or vinyl surfaces.

For exterior protection, using a ceramic coating or high-quality car wax creates a protective layer against sun damage and oxidation. This extra step keeps your paint looking fresh despite the intense island sunshine.

From salt air to sun exposure, your car faces unique challenges in Hawaii. Visit LexBrodies in Honolulu, HI, for professional care and long-lasting protection!

How Can I Prevent My Car from Overheating?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:00:00 GMT

A car that overheats is more than just an inconvenience—it can lead to costly repairs and even long-term engine damage if not addressed properly. Whether you're stuck in traffic or driving long distances, temperature spikes under the hood can quickly turn into a serious problem. Overheating is a common issue, especially in warmer climates where high temperatures put extra strain on your vehicle's cooling system. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your engine running at the right temperature and avoid breakdowns.

Keep an Eye on Coolant Levels

Your engine's cooling system relies on coolant, also known as antifreeze, to regulate temperature and prevent overheating. Low coolant levels are one of the leading causes of overheating, as the system won't be able to properly dissipate heat. Checking coolant levels regularly and topping them off as needed can help ensure your engine stays within a safe operating range.

It’s also important to inspect coolant for contamination. If the fluid looks rusty or has debris floating in it , it may be time for a flush and replacement. Old coolant loses its ability to properly regulate temperature, and a system flush can help remove any buildup that might be restricting proper circulation.

Inspect the Radiator and Hoses for Leaks

Leaks in the cooling system can quickly lead to overheating, as they reduce the amount of coolant circulating through the engine. Common places for leaks include the radiator, hoses, and water pump. If you notice puddles of coolant under your car, a visible crack in a hose, or steam coming from under the hood, these could all be signs of a leak.

Regularly checking hoses for cracks, bulges, or loose connections can help prevent leaks before they happen. The radiator itself should also be inspected for blockages or external damage that could impact its ability to cool the engine properly.

Ensure the Cooling Fans Are Working

Cooling fans play a crucial role in preventing overheating, particularly when you're driving at lower speeds or sitting in traffic. If the fan isn’t turning on when the engine temperature rises, it may be due to a blown fuse, a bad fan motor, or a faulty temperature sensor.

To test the fan, let your car idle and observe whether it activates as the engine warms up. If it doesn’t, a technician can check the electrical components and determine if repairs or replacements are necessary.

Pay Attention to the Thermostat

The thermostat regulates coolant flow based on the engine’s temperature. If it becomes stuck closed, the coolant won’t circulate properly, causing the engine to overheat. A failing thermostat can also cause fluctuating temperature readings or inconsistent cooling performance.

Replacing a faulty thermostat is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix that can prevent major engine damage. If you notice your temperature gauge rising and falling erratically, it might be time to have your thermostat inspected.

Driving Tips to Reduce Overheating Risk

While proper maintenance plays a huge role in preventing overheating, driving habits can also make a difference. When possible, avoid excessive stop-and-go traffic, as idling for long periods can put additional strain on the cooling system. If you're stuck in slow-moving traffic, shifting into neutral and lightly revving the engine can help circulate coolant and reduce heat buildup.

If your car starts to overheat while driving, turning on the heater can help draw excess heat away from the engine. While it may not be comfortable, it can temporarily lower the temperature enough to get you to a safe location where the issue can be addressed.

For drivers in Hawaii, the combination of high temperatures, humidity, and heavy traffic can put extra stress on your car’s cooling system. Making sure your vehicle is well-maintained and prepared for these conditions can prevent overheating and keep you on the road without interruptions.

Is your car running hotter than usual? Visit any of our LexBrodies locations in Hawaii for a cooling system inspection and prevent overheating before it happens. Schedule your appointment today!

How Long Does a Car Battery Typically Last?

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 20:00:00 GMT

If you’ve ever been stuck with a car that won’t start, you know how important a reliable battery is. It’s the heart of your vehicle’s electrical system, providing the energy to get your engine running and power all the accessories we often take for granted. But just how long can you expect a car battery to last before it’s time for a replacement?

Typical Lifespan of a Car Battery

On average, a car battery lasts about three to five years. This range depends on various factors, including the type of battery, your driving habits, and the climate where you live.

In a place like Honolulu, HI, the tropical weather can take a toll on your battery. Heat is one of the biggest culprits in shortening battery life because it accelerates the chemical reactions inside the battery. While your car may be parked in the shade or a garage, the ambient temperature still contributes to wear and tear over time.

Signs Your Battery May Be on Its Way Out

Nobody wants to be caught off guard by a failing battery, especially when you’re on your way to an important appointment. Knowing the warning signs of a weakening battery can save you a lot of hassle.

Factors That Impact Battery Longevity

While the average lifespan is a helpful guideline, several factors can influence how long your specific battery lasts.

Driving Habits
Short trips don’t allow your battery enough time to fully recharge. If your daily drives are under 10 minutes, your battery may wear out faster.

Climate
As mentioned earlier, hot climates can cause batteries to degrade more quickly. Honolulu’s warm weather makes it even more essential to monitor your battery’s condition regularly.

Maintenance
Neglecting to clean corrosion from the battery terminals or failing to check the battery’s water levels (in non-sealed batteries) can lead to a shorter lifespan.

Electrical Load
Modern cars are packed with electronics, from infotainment systems to advanced safety features. The more accessories you use, the harder your battery has to work.

How to Extend Your Battery’s Life

The good news is there are steps you can take to maximize the lifespan of your car battery. Regular maintenance and mindful driving habits can make a big difference.

When Should You Replace Your Battery

Even with the best care, all batteries eventually need to be replaced. It’s a good idea to have your battery tested annually after the three-year mark. This can help you avoid the frustration of a dead battery by catching problems before they leave you stranded.

If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, don’t wait—get your battery inspected and replaced if necessary.

Is your car struggling to start? It might be time for a new battery. Head to LexBrodies Honolulu in Honolulu, HI, for reliable diagnostics and high-quality replacement batteries. Schedule your appointment now!

What Are the Essential Tire Services for Optimal Vehicle Performance?

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Your car’s tires are the only parts of your vehicle that touch the road, making them essential for your safety and performance. Yet, it’s easy to take these hardworking components for granted. Whether you’re commuting daily, heading on a long road trip, or just running errands around town, your tires play a key role in your car’s handling, braking, and fuel efficiency. To keep your vehicle performing at its best, understanding and staying on top of essential tire services is a must.

Tire Maintenance

Proper tire care is about more than just prolonging the life of your tires—it’s about ensuring your vehicle remains safe and efficient. Worn-out or poorly maintained tires can lead to reduced traction, longer stopping distances, and even blowouts, all of which put you and others at risk. Regular tire services don’t just save you money in the long run; they also provide peace of mind every time you hit the road.

Tire Rotation

Tire rotation is one of the simplest yet most effective services to maintain your tires’ health. Over time, your tires wear unevenly due to differences in weight distribution and driving habits. Front tires often experience more wear because they bear the engine’s weight and handle steering.

By rotating your tires regularly—typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles—you can ensure they wear more evenly. This not only extends their lifespan but also improves your car’s handling and reduces the likelihood of needing premature replacements.

Tire Balancing

Ever notice vibrations in your steering wheel or seat at higher speeds? That’s often a sign your tires are out of balance. Tire balancing addresses uneven weight distribution in your tires and wheels, ensuring they spin evenly at all speeds.

When you get new tires or notice vibrations, having them balanced is essential. Neglecting this service can lead to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and unnecessary strain on your suspension system.

Wheel Alignment

If your car tends to pull to one side or your steering feels off, it might be time for a wheel alignment . This service adjusts your car’s suspension system to ensure your tires meet the road at the correct angle.

Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and difficulty steering. Scheduling an alignment at least once a year—or whenever you notice alignment issues—can save you from costly repairs and keep your ride safe and comfortable.

Tire Pressure Checks

Underinflated or overinflated tires might seem like a minor issue, but they can significantly impact your car’s performance. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency and increasing wear, while overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride and increased risk of blowouts.

Make it a habit to check your tire pressure monthly and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommendations, often found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Many vehicles now have tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), but a manual check with a tire pressure gauge ensures accuracy.

Tire Inspections

A visual tire inspection might not sound like much , but it’s a valuable way to spot potential issues before they become serious. Look for signs like uneven wear, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects like nails.

If you notice anything unusual, it’s better to get it checked sooner rather than later. Catching a problem early can save you from a costly repair or even an unexpected blowout on the road.

When Should You Replace Your Tires

Even with regular maintenance, tires don’t last forever. Most tires are designed to last between 25,000 and 50,000 miles, but factors like driving habits and road conditions can shorten their lifespan.

One quick way to check is the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too worn, and it’s time for a replacement. Regular inspections by a professional can also help you determine when new tires are needed.

Need reliable tire care? LexBrodies Honolulu offers tire rotations, balancing, alignments, and more to keep your vehicle performing at its best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

6 Vital Fluids Every Car Owner Should Know About

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Taking care of a car goes beyond just the engine and exterior. Many owners don’t realize that various essential fluids run through their vehicles, each maintaining a smooth, safe ride. When one of these fluids is low or becomes contaminated, it can impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. Understanding which fluids need attention and how often can save you from costly repairs. So, let’s explore the six fundamental fluids every car owner should know about and why they’re so essential for a healthy, well-functioning vehicle.

1. Engine Oil

Engine oil is arguably the most important fluid in your car. It serves as a lubricant for the engine's moving parts, minimizing friction and helping to prevent wear and tear. Additionally, it plays a part in temperature control, carrying heat away from the engine components and helping maintain optimal performance. Over time, engine oil can break down and become less effective, which is why regular oil changes are essential.

Neglecting engine oil can lead to severe engine damage, even total failure. If you notice the engine oil light on your dashboard, it’s a sign that the oil level might be low or that there’s an issue with the oil pressure. Checking the oil level regularly and scheduling timely oil changes are two of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your engine in top condition.

2. Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid is essential for both automatic and manual vehicles. This fluid lubricates the transmission system, ensuring that gears shift smoothly and without too much friction. In an automatic transmission, this fluid also functions as a coolant, preventing overheating in the transmission system. Unlike engine oil, which needs to be changed more frequently, transmission fluid generally has a longer life, but it still needs periodic checks and replacement.

When transmission fluid levels are low or the fluid becomes contaminated, you might notice rough or delayed shifting, which can lead to long-term damage. For automatic transmissions, this fluid should typically be checked every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on your car's make and model.

3. Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is crucial for your car's braking system. It transfers force from the brake pedal to the brakes, enabling you to stop your vehicle safely. Brake fluid is also designed to handle high temperatures without boiling, as boiling could lead to brake failure. Since brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, it can become contaminated over time, which reduces its efficiency.

If your brakes feel spongy or the brake warning light appears, it may be time to check the brake fluid. Generally, it’s recommended to replace this fluid every two years. For optimal safety, make it a habit to have the brake fluid inspected during routine maintenance.

4. Coolant

Coolant, or antifreeze, is another essential fluid that keeps your engine from overheating. It circulates through the engine, absorbing excess heat and then carrying it to the radiator, where it’s dispersed. In colder climates, coolant also prevents your engine from freezing.

Running low on coolant can cause overheating, which can lead to severe damage to the engine. Modern cars have sensors to alert you if coolant levels are low, but it’s still a good idea to check it manually. Typically, coolant needs to be flushed and replaced every 30,000 miles, or as specified in your vehicle's owner’s manual.

5. Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid makes it possible to turn your steering wheel with ease. It supplies hydraulic pressure to the steering system, enabling you to navigate turns and maneuvers without excessive effort. Low power steering fluid can lead to difficulty steering, and in some cases, it can cause the steering pump to fail.

If you notice a whining or groaning noise while turning or if the steering feels stiffer than usual, it could be a sign that the power steering fluid needs to be topped up or replaced. For most cars, it’s recommended to check power steering fluid levels during regular maintenance appointments, and you may need to replace it every 50,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and conditions.

6. Windshield Washer Fluid

While windshield washer fluid doesn’t impact the mechanics of your car, it’s essential for visibility and safety. It helps you maintain a clear view of the road, especially in bad weather conditions or on dusty roads. Unlike other fluids, windshield washer fluid doesn’t require specialized care, and you can easily refill it yourself.

Running out of windshield washer fluid isn’t a huge emergency, but having it available when needed can make a significant difference in keeping your windshield clean and clear. Make sure to check and refill this fluid regularly, especially before long trips or if you live in an area with harsh weather.

How to Keep Your Vehicle’s Fluids in Top Condition

Keeping these vital fluids in good condition is key to a vehicle’s overall health. Here are some general tips for fluid maintenance:

Check Levels Regularly
Get into the habit of checking fluid levels at least once a month. A quick glance can save you from potential issues later on.

Use the Right Fluids
Each car has specific requirements. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids, as using the wrong type can impact performance.

Listen to Warning Signs
If you notice unusual noises, warning lights, or changes in how your car feels while driving, these can often be clues that fluid levels or quality may be an issue.

Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure about fluid levels or how to top them off, a professional inspection can ensure everything is functioning correctly. Regular check-ups can prevent small issues from escalating into major repairs.

Whether it’s brake fluid, transmission fluid, or anything in between, LexBrodies offers full-service fluid checks and top-offs. Schedule your appointment today!

Can Worn Shock Absorbers Cause Safety Issues?

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:00:00 GMT

If you've ever driven a car that feels more like a bouncy castle than a smooth ride, there's a good chance your shock absorbers are on their way out. Shock absorbers are a vital part of your vehicle’s suspension system, designed to control the impact and rebound movement of your car. But what happens when they wear out? Are there real safety concerns involved?

1. What Do Shock Absorbers Do

To understand why worn shock absorbers are a safety risk, you first need to know what they do. Shock absorbers help manage the motion of y our car's springs and suspension . They prevent excessive bouncing and swaying by controlling the energy created by the springs when you hit a bump or pothole. Think of them as the part that keeps your car steady and balanced on the road. Without them, your ride would be a lot less controlled.

Shock absorbers don’t just improve comfort. They also play a key role in how your vehicle handles. Whether you’re taking a tight corner, braking suddenly, or accelerating, shock absorbers help maintain traction by keeping your tires planted firmly on the road. So, when they start to wear down, it directly affects your vehicle’s stability and your ability to control it.

2. How Can Worn Shock Absorbers Impact Safety

Worn-out shock absorbers don’t just make your ride uncomfortable—they can significantly compromise safety in multiple ways:

Increased Stopping Distance
One of the most dangerous effects of worn shock absorbers is the increase in braking distance. When your shocks aren't functioning properly, your vehicle may take longer to come to a complete stop, especially in emergency situations. The extra time and distance it takes to stop can be the difference between a close call and a collision.

Poor Traction and Control
Shock absorbers help keep your tires in constant contact with the road. When they wear out, your tires may lose contact with the road, especially when driving over uneven surfaces. This can lead to loss of control, particularly when turning or braking on wet or icy roads.

Excessive Body Roll
If you notice your vehicle swaying more than usual when cornering, this could be a sign that your shocks are worn. Excessive body roll can make your car feel unstable, increasing the risk of rollover accidents.

Unpredictable Handling
Your car’s handling becomes less predictable with worn shocks. Sudden movements, like swerving to avoid an obstacle, can become more difficult, increasing the chances of an accident.

3. Warning Signs of Worn Shock Absorbers

Recognizing the symptoms of failing shock absorbers can prevent dangerous situations before they arise. Here are a few telltale signs:

4. Why Regular Shock Absorber Maintenance is Important

Given how vital shock absorbers are to your car’s handling and overall safety , regular maintenance is crucial. You should have your suspension checked at least once a year or whenever you notice any of the symptoms mentioned earlier. Ignoring worn shocks can lead to further damage to your vehicle, such as increased wear and tear on tires and other suspension components.

If you're unsure whether your shocks are still in good condition, a simple test is to press down on the front or rear of your vehicle. If the car continues to bounce after you release it, chances are the shocks need to be inspected and possibly replaced.

5. Can You Drive With Worn Shock Absorbers

The short answer is yes, but it's not a good idea. While you may not experience a catastrophic failure if your shocks are worn, driving with bad shocks puts unnecessary strain on other components of your vehicle and drastically increases the risk of accidents. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more dangerous your car becomes. Not to mention, ignoring worn shocks will lead to more expensive repairs down the line as other parts of your car wear out faster.

Concerned about your vehicle’s suspension? LexBrodies Honolulu offers comprehensive maintenance services to ensure your shock absorbers and overall suspension system are in top shape. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

Why Should You Replace Tires in Pairs or Sets of Four

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:00:00 GMT

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, tire care is often one of the most overlooked aspects. However, tires play a significant role in your car's performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. While many drivers may be tempted to replace just one tire at a time, it's recommended to replace tires in pairs or sets of four. But why is that the case?

Uneven Tire Wear and Why It Matters

Tires naturally wear out over time due to the constant friction they endure while making contact with the road. However, they don't all wear out at the same rate. The front tires, for example, typically wear down faster than the rear ones, especially on front-wheel-drive vehicles, since they handle the brunt of the steering and braking.

If you only replace one tire, you introduce a tire with more tread depth alongside an older, worn tire. This uneven tread can lead to imbalanced handling, poor traction, and an overall unsafe driving experience. Replacing tires in pairs ensures that the tires on each axle have similar levels of wear, providing consistent performance and safer driving conditions.

Balanced Traction for Better Control

One of the main reasons you should replace tires in pairs or sets of four is to maintain balanced traction. Different tread depths affect how well your car grips the road, especially in challenging conditions like rain or snow. For example, if you have one new tire with deep tread and another older tire with shallow tread, your car may pull to one side, making it harder to control.

This imbalance is especially dangerous in wet or icy conditions where traction is critical. Uneven tires can cause the vehicle to lose grip, especially during turns or sudden braking. Replacing all four tires, or at the very least both tires on the same axle, helps ensure that your car maintains balanced traction on all surfaces, reducing the risk of skidding or sliding.

Enhances Stability and Cornering

When driving, especially at higher speeds or while cornering, stability is key to maintaining control of the vehicle. Replacing just one tire can throw off your vehicle's balance, leading to less predictable handling. When the tires have different levels of tread wear, it can affect the way your car handles turns and reacts to sudden changes in direction.

Replacing tires in pairs or sets of four ensures that your vehicle's suspension and alignment work in harmony . It helps maintain the stability of the vehicle and prevents pulling to one side, which can happen when the tire treads are mismatched. Proper tire replacement significantly enhances the overall driving experience, giving you more confidence while on the road.

Prevents Premature Wear on New Tires

One of the most frustrating things about only replacing one tire is the premature wear it causes on the new tire. When paired with an older, more worn-out tire, the new tire is forced to work harder to compensate for the imbalance. This extra strain can cause the new tire to wear down faster than it should, effectively shortening its lifespan.

Replacing tires in pairs or all four at once ensures that all tires are working evenly. This not only prevents premature wear but also helps you get the most out of your investment. Tires can be expensive, and replacing them frequently due to uneven wear is not a cost-effective strategy.

All-wheel drive Vehicles Require All Four Tires to Be Replaced

If you own an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle, it’s especially important to replace all four tires at the same time. AWD systems rely on equal traction from all four tires to function properly. When one tire has more tread than the others, the AWD system works overtime to balance the power distribution between the wheels. This imbalance can lead to wear on the drivetrain, increased fuel consumption, and in some cases, damage to the AWD system itself.

Manufacturers of AWD vehicles typically recommend replacing all four tires together to maintain proper alignment and handling . Skipping this step could lead to costly repairs down the road, as the AWD system is one of the more complex and expensive components to fix.

Signs That You Need to Replace Your Tires

So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your tires? Here are a few signs to look out for:

Tread Depth
The most obvious indicator is tread depth. Once your tire’s tread wears down to 2/32 of an inch, it's time to replace them. You can use a penny test or a tread depth gauge to measure it yourself.

Visible Cracks or Bulges
Cracks in the sidewall or bulging areas are clear signs that your tires need to be replaced, even if the tread looks fine.

Frequent Loss of Air Pressure
If you’re constantly refilling your tires with air, there may be an issue with the tire’s structure, and a replacement may be necessary.

Vibration While Driving
Excessive vibration in the steering wheel or seat could mean that your tires are unevenly worn or misaligned, and they may need to be replaced.

Need new tires? Trust LexBrodies Honolulu to ensure your car handles like a dream. We can replace your tires to ensure you get the most out of your ride. Reach out today to book your service!

Why Should You Leave Your Car’s A/C Service to Professionals

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Have you ever stepped into your car on a blazing summer day only to find that the air conditioning isn't working? While you might consider fixing it yourself, seeking professional service for your car's AC is necessary. Certified technicians not only ensure the correct diagnosis and repair but also handle refrigerants safely, prevent potential damage, preserve your vehicle's warranty, and guarantee your comfort and safety. Here's why trusting experts with your car's AC is the wisest choice.

Ensuring Proper Handling of Refrigerants

Refrigerants are the lifeblood of your car's AC system, but they can be tricky to handle. Incorrectly managing refrigerants can lead to leaks, reduced efficiency, or even complete system failure. Furthermore, many refrigerants are environmentally hazardous and require careful handling and disposal. Certified technicians are trained to handle these substances safely and in compliance with environmental regulations, ensuring that your AC system operates efficiently without causing harm to the planet.

Avoiding Potential Damage and Repairs

Attempting to service your car's AC on your own can lead to accidental damage. For instance, overcharging or undercharging the refrigerant can cause severe damage to the compressor, which is one of the most expensive parts to replace. Professionals use precise instruments and follow meticulous procedures to avoid such issues. By ensuring the job is done right the first time, you save yourself from the headache and expense of future repairs.

Preserving Your Vehicle's Warranty

Did you know that DIY repairs could void your car's warranty? Most vehicle warranties stipulate that certified professionals must perform repairs and maintenance to remain valid. By taking your car to an authorized service center, you ensure that your warranty remains intact, protecting you from additional costs if something goes wrong.

Expert Knowledge and Experience

Professional technicians are specialists with extensive training and experience in automotive AC systems. They stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in the industry. This expertise allows them to quickly identify issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye and to implement the most effective solutions. Their experience translates to a faster, more efficient service that gets you back on the road without unnecessary delays.

Guaranteeing Safety and Comfort

Your car's AC system does more than keep you cool—it also ensures your comfort and safety. A malfunctioning AC can lead to foggy windows, reduced visibility, and even heat-related health issues during extreme temperatures. By relying on professionals, you ensure that your AC system is thoroughly inspected, repaired, and maintained to provide optimal performance and safety .

Ensure your safety and comfort on the road. Visit LexBrodies Honolulu for a thorough AC inspection and service.

How Do Cars Lose Alignment?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 13:00:00 GMT

When your car feels like it's pulling to one side or your steering wheel vibrates, it's likely a sign that your car's alignment is off. But how exactly does this happen? Understanding the causes of misalignment can help you prevent it and ensure a safer drive. We will explore the various ways cars lose alignment, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to maintain proper alignment.

What is Car Alignment

Alignment is a crucial aspect of car maintenance that affects the vehicle's handling, tire wear, and overall safety. Proper alignment ensures that your car's wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other, providing optimal contact with the road. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and increased fuel consumption.

Common Causes of Misalignment

Hitting Potholes and Curbs
One of the most common causes of misalignment is hitting potholes or curbs. These impacts can jar the suspension system, causing the wheels to become misaligned. Even a minor bump can lead to significant alignment issues over time.

Accidents and Collisions
Accidents, even minor fender benders, can disrupt your car's alignment. The force from a collision can damage suspension components, leading to misaligned wheels. It's essential to have your alignment checked after any accident to ensure your car is safe to drive.

Worn Suspension Components
Over time, suspension components such as ball joints, tie rods, and bushings can wear out. When these parts become loose or worn, they can no longer maintain proper alignment, leading to issues with handling and tire wear.

Uneven Tire Pressure
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is vital for proper alignment. Uneven tire pressure can cause the car to pull to one side, leading to misalignment. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure can help prevent this issue.

Improperly Installed Suspension Parts
If you've had any suspension work done on your car, improper installation can lead to misalignment. It's crucial to ensure that any suspension repairs or modifications are done by a qualified technician to avoid alignment problems.

Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment

Uneven Tire Wear
One of the most obvious signs of misalignment is uneven tire wear. If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing down more on one side than the other, it's time to get your alignment checked.

Steering Wheel Vibration
If your steering wheel vibrates or shakes while driving, especially at higher speeds, it could be a sign of misalignment. This vibration is often caused by the wheels pulling in different directions.

Car Pulling to One Side
When your car constantly pulls to one side while driving on a straight, level road, it clearly indicates that your alignment is off. This pulling can make it difficult to maintain control and can be dangerous.

Crooked Steering Wheel
If your steering wheel is not centered when driving straight, it indicates that your alignment is off. A crooked steering wheel can affect your car's handling and lead to uneven tire wear.

How to Maintain Proper Alignment

Regular Alignment Checks
Regular alignment checks are essential for maintaining proper alignment. Most manufacturers recommend having your alignment checked every 10,000 miles or at least once a year. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads, you may need to check it more often.

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Proper tire inflation is crucial for alignment. Regularly check your tire pressure and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This simple step can prevent many alignment issues.

Avoid Hitting Potholes and Curbs
While avoiding potholes and curbs is impossible , being mindful of your driving can help. Slow down when driving on rough roads and avoid curbs when parking to reduce the risk of misalignment.

Schedule Regular Suspension Inspections
Regular suspension inspections can help identify worn or damaged components before they lead to alignment issues. Have a qualified technician inspect your suspension system at least once a year.

Don't wait for signs of trouble. Visit LexBrodies Honolulu for a professional alignment check and enjoy a safer, more comfortable drive.

Why Do Rental Cars Cost So Much in Hawaii?

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Hawaii is a dream destination for many, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and unique culture. However, one aspect that often surprises visitors is the high cost of rental cars. If you've ever wondered why renting a car in Hawaii is so expensive, you're not alone. We will explain the reasons behind these high prices and explore what you can do to manage your transportation costs.

High Demand and Limited Supply

The basic economic principle of supply and demand significantly influences Hawaii's rental car prices. The islands are a major tourist destination, attracting millions yearly visitors. The demand for rental cars skyrockets during peak travel seasons, such as summer, winter holidays, and spring break. Unfortunately, the supply of rental cars is relatively limited. Hawaii's remote location means that increasing the supply of rental vehicles isn't as straightforward as it might be on the mainland.

Logistical Challenges and Shipping Costs

Getting rental cars and goods in general to Hawaii is a logistical challenge. Unlike mainland destinations, rental car companies can't simply move vehicles between states to meet demand. Instead, cars must be shipped to the islands, which involves significant costs. Shipping vehicles from the mainland United States to Hawaii is expensive, and these costs are inevitably passed on to consumers. The maintenance and replacement parts for these vehicles also need to be shipped, adding to the overall expenses.

High Operating Costs

Operating a rental car business in Hawaii comes with higher costs compared to other locations. Factors such as higher real estate prices, labor costs, and insurance premiums all contribute to the elevated prices of rental cars. Rental companies must cover these increased operating expenses while still managing a fleet of well-maintained, reliable vehicles. As a result, the higher costs are reflected in the rental prices.

Taxes and Fees

Hawaii imposes various taxes and fees on rental cars, which can significantly increase the total cost. The state charges a rental motor vehicle surcharge tax, and there are additional county taxes and fees. These taxes are used to support infrastructure and public transportation projects, but they also contribute to the higher cost of renting a car. When you rent a car in Hawaii, you might be surprised to see how much of the total price is made up of these additional charges.

Insurance and Liability

Insurance is another factor that drives up the cost of rental cars in Hawaii. The state's no-fault insurance system means that rental car companies must provide comprehensive coverage , which is costly. Hawaii's high cost of living and higher accident rates compared to the mainland also contribute to increased insurance premiums for rental vehicles. These costs are ultimately passed on to renters.

Tips for Saving on Rental Cars in Hawaii

Despite the high costs, there are several strategies you can use to save money on rental cars in Hawaii:

Book Early
Reserving your rental car well in advance can help you secure a better rate. As demand increases closer to your travel dates, prices tend to rise.

Consider Alternative Transportation
Depending on your itinerary, you might be able to use public transportation, ride-sharing services, or even bicycles for some of your transportation needs. This can reduce the number of days you need a rental car.

Compare Prices
Use comparison websites to check rates from different rental companies. Sometimes, smaller, local rental agencies may offer more competitive prices than the larger chains.

Look for Discounts
Check if you qualify for any discounts through memberships, credit card benefits, or corporate rates. Every little bit helps when it comes to saving on rental cars.

Choose a Smaller Car
Opting for a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle can save you money not only on the rental rate but also on gas.

Ensure your vehicle is in top shape before a trip. Schedule a maintenance check for your car with LexBrodies Honolulu today!

How to Identify and Address Common Suspension Issues

Tue, 28 May 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Your vehicle's suspension system is responsible for smooth rides and effortless handling, absorbing bumps and maintaining stability on the road. However, when issues arise, they can wreak havoc on your driving experience and even compromise safety. In this guide, we'll look into how to spot common suspension problems and address them effectively, ensuring your journey remains smooth and stress-free.

1. The Basics of Suspension Systems

Before discussing the issues, we must grasp the fundamentals of your vehicle's suspension. From shocks and struts to control arms and bushings, each component plays an important role in supporting the vehicle's weight and absorbing impacts from the road surface.

Shocks and struts, for instance, act as dampers, absorbing the kinetic energy generated by bumps and imperfections in the road , while control arms and bushings help to maintain proper alignment and stability.

2. Recognizing Signs of Suspension Trouble

Suspension issues often manifest in various ways, including:

Being attuned to these symptoms can help you diagnose potential suspension problems early and prevent further damage.

3. Diagnosing Common Suspension Problems

Worn or Damaged Shocks and Struts
Inspect these components for leaks, visible damage, or signs of wear. Bounce each corner of the vehicle and observe how it responds. Excessive bouncing or a lack of rebound may indicate worn shocks or struts.

Suspension Bushing Wear
Check for signs of deterioration or cracking in the bushings, which can lead to noise, vibration, and handling issues. Excessive movement or play in the suspension components may also signal worn bushings.

Misaligned Wheels
Improper wheel alignment can cause uneven tire wear and affect vehicle stability. Measure the tread depth on each tire and look for signs of uneven wear patterns, such as cupping or feathering.

4. Addressing Suspension Problems

Once you've identified the source of the issue, it's crucial to take action promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.

Replacing Worn Shocks or Struts
If your shocks or struts are worn or damaged, replace them with high-quality replacements to restore ride comfort and stability.

Repairing or Replacing Suspension Bushings
Worn bushings can be replaced individually or as part of a larger suspension repair. Choose durable, high-quality bushings to ensure long-lasting performance.

Aligning Wheels
Schedule a professional wheel alignment to correct misaligned wheels and prevent uneven tire wear. Regular alignments can also improve steering response and handling.

5. Preventative Maintenance for a Smooth Ride

Regular maintenance is key to preserving your vehicle's suspension system and preventing future issues. Schedule periodic inspections at our auto repair shop to catch problems early and keep your suspension in top condition.

Experience the difference with LexBrodies Honolulu's top-notch suspension services. Let our team of experts keep your ride smooth and stable. Get in touch today to book your appointment.

What is The Honolulu Safety Inspection?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Are you confident your vehicle is up to par with safety standards? What if you could preemptively address potential issues? Enter the Honolulu Safety Inspection—a crucial step in ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy and safe for your adventures across the island.

Demystifying the Honolulu Safety Inspection:

When it comes to vehicle safety, knowledge is power. The Honolulu Safety Inspection is a comprehensive assessment conducted by authorized service stations and vehicle repair shops to ensure vehicles meet stringent safety standards. Staying up to date with inspections is vital for every driver.

What Does the Inspection Entail?

From body items to drive train components, the Honolulu Safety Inspection covers an extensive list of components to guarantee your vehicle's safety. Here's a glimpse into the components inspected during the process:

Body Items
An exterior body inspection ensures the structural integrity of your vehicle, covering areas such as bumpers, fenders, and glazing material.

Brakes
From the antilock system to brake pedal movement , every aspect of your braking system is meticulously inspected to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Drivetrain Components
Constant velocity boots, wheel bearings, and starter interlocks are among the components examined to identify potential issues that may affect your vehicle's driveability.

Occupant Protection
Seat belts and airbags undergo scrutiny to ensure they function effectively in the event of a collision, prioritizing the safety of vehicle occupants.

Why Is It Important?

The Honolulu Safety Inspection isn't just a routine check; it's a critical step in safeguarding yourself and others on the road. By identifying and addressing potential safety hazards early on, the inspection helps prevent accidents and costly repairs down the line. Additionally, staying compliant with safety inspection requirements ensures smooth vehicle registration and peace of mind for drivers.

How Does It Work?

When you present your vehicle for inspection, ensure you have the necessary documents on hand: vehicle registration and insurance identification card. Once the inspection is complete, the information is updated electronically in the statewide database, reflecting the current safety inspection expiration date. You can even submit a copy of your safety inspection form by mail when renewing your registration, streamlining the process for added convenience.

Questions You Might Have

Can I Obtain a Safety Inspection at Any Authorized Service Station?

Yes, authorized service stations and vehicle repair shops across Honolulu offer safety inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.

What Happens If My Vehicle Fails the Safety Inspection?

If your vehicle fails the inspection, you'll receive a detailed report outlining the issues found. You can then work with a qualified mechanic to address the necessary repairs and schedule a re-inspection to ensure compliance.

How Often Should I Schedule the Honolulu Safety Inspection?

Most privately owned vehicles are issued a safety inspection certificate valid for one year. You have to schedule the inspection annually to maintain vehicle safety and compliance.

Don't leave your safety to chance – trust LexBrodies Honolulu for your next Safety Inspection and drive with peace of mind. Book now to experience top-notch service, meticulous attention to detail, and unmatched expertise in keeping your vehicle roadworthy.

Pothole Survival Guide on Safeguarding Your Vehicle on Hawaiian Roads

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 08:24:00 GMT

Hawaiian roads are known for their breathtaking scenery, but they also pose a challenge to drivers in the form of potholes. The island ranks as the second state in the nation for pothole complaints. These road hazards can wreak havoc on vehicles, damaging tires, suspension systems, and more.

Understanding the Dangers of Potholes

Potholes are more than just minor inconveniences—they're potential hazards lurking on the roadways. From shallow divots to deep craters, these irregularities in the pavement can wreak havoc on your vehicle, leading to flat tires, bent rims, and misaligned suspension components. Unveiling the secrets of potholes and their effects on your car is crucial to preventing costly repairs and keeping you on the road.

How to Spot Potholes Like a Pro

Vigilant observation is the key to pothole survival. Look for indicative signs of potholes ahead, such as patches of uneven pavement, puddles, or swerving vehicles. Maintaining a safe following distance and scanning the road surface ahead can give you precious seconds to react and maneuver around potential hazards, minimizing the risk of damage to your vehicle.

Navigating Potholes Safely

When faced with unavoidable potholes, it's important to approach them with caution. Slow down gradually to reduce the impact force on your vehicle and minimize damage. If possible, steer your vehicle to straddle the pothole or angle your wheels to minimize direct contact with the edge. Remember, swerving suddenly or slamming on the brakes can increase the risk of losing control or colliding with other vehicles. Make sure you check your surroundings before making the maneuvers.

Inspecting for Damage

After encountering a pothole:
Take a moment to inspect your vehicle for any signs of damage.
Check your tires for bulges, cuts, or uneven wear, as these may indicate impact damage or punctures.
Examine your wheels for bends or cracks, and listen for unusual noises or vibrations while driving. If you suspect damage, schedule a professional inspection with us to assess the extent of the issue and address any necessary repairs promptly.

Preventive Measures

Preventive measures can be your greatest ally in the battle against potholes. Maintain proper tire inflation to provide air cushion between your wheels and the road surface, reducing the risk of tire damage. Consider upgrading to tires with reinforced sidewalls or opting for a vehicle with higher ground clearance to navigate rough terrain easily. Practicing defensive driving techniques and avoiding known pothole hotspots can help minimize the risk of encountering these hazards.

Q&A

Are potholes more common on certain Hawaiian islands, and what factors contribute to their formation?

The island of Oahu is known for a higher percentage of potholes per 1000 km of road.

Are local resources or services available to assist drivers encountering pothole-related vehicle damage on Hawaiian roads?

Government agencies offer services and resources to assist drivers with pothole-related vehicle damage, including inspections, repairs, and reimbursement programs for eligible claims.

Are there specific areas on Oahu known for having more potholes than others?

Certain areas on Oahu, such as Makaha, Downtown Honolulu, Waipahu, and older urban neighborhoods and roads with heavy traffic, are prone to potholes due to wear and tear.

What should I do if my vehicle sustains damage from hitting a pothole on Oahu?

If your vehicle is damaged by a pothole on Oahu roads, document the incident with photos, report it to the authorities for investigation, and consider filing a claim for reimbursement of repair costs if applicable.

Hit a pothole and worried about the damage? Leave it to us, LexBrodies Honolulu is here to help! We understand how frustrating unexpected car trouble can be and will make sure you are on the road in no time.

How To Air Out the Brake System - 9 Simple Steps

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 11:51:00 GMT

Maintaining your vehicle's brake system is crucial for safe driving and optimal performance on the road. Over time, air can become trapped in the brake lines, leading to a spongy brake pedal and reduced braking effectiveness.

Airing out the brake system, also known as bleeding the brakes, is a simple yet essential maintenance task that every car owner should know how to perform.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather all the tools and materials you'll need for the job. This includes a bottle of fresh brake fluid, a wrench or socket set, a clear plastic hose, a catch container, and a friend to assist you with the bleeding process.

2. Park Your Vehicle on a Level Surface

Find a flat and level surface to park your vehicle and engage the parking brake to prevent it from rolling. Ensure the transmission is in Park (for automatic) or in gear (for manual) to secure the vehicle in place.

3. Locate the Brake Bleeder Valve

Locate the brake bleeder valve on each brake caliper or wheel cylinder. The bleeder valve is typically located on the back of the caliper or cylinder and may be covered by a rubber dust cap.

4. Prepare the Brake Bleeding Setup

Attach the clear plastic hose to the bleeder valve and place the other end into the catch container filled with a small amount of brake fluid. This setup will allow air and old brake fluid to be expelled while preventing air from re-entering the brake system.

5. Begin Bleeding the Brakes

With the help of your assistant, start at the brake farthest from the master cylinder, usually the rear passenger side, and work your way to the closest one, typically the front driver side. Instruct your assistant to press and hold the brake pedal firmly while you open the bleeder valve.

6. Monitor Brake Fluid Level

Throughout the bleeding process, monitor the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with fresh brake fluid as needed. Keep the reservoir from running dry to prevent air from entering the brake system.

7. Repeat the Bleeding Process

Repeat the bleeding process for each brake caliper or wheel cylinder until clear brake fluid flows steadily through the clear plastic hose without any air bubbles.

8. Tighten the Bleeder Valves

Once all the brakes have been bled, tighten the bleeder valves securely to prevent leaks. Remove the plastic hose and wipe down the bleeder valves to clean off any brake fluid residue.

9. Test Drive and Verify Brake Performance

After airing out the brake system, take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly. Pay attention to the brake pedal feel and responsiveness, ensuring there are no sponginess or issues with braking.

Common Reasons for Air in Brake System and Prevention Tips

Air in the brake system can lead to a spongy brake pedal feel and reduced braking performance. Here are three of the most common reasons for air in the brake system and the best tips to avoid them:

1. Brake Fluid Leaks

Brake fluid leaks are one of the primary causes of air entering the brake system. Leaks can occur due to deteriorated brake hoses, damaged brake lines, or faulty seals in the master cylinder or calipers. When brake fluid leaks out, air can be drawn into the system, resulting in air pockets that compromise brake performance.

2. Improper Brake Bleeding Technique

Improper brake bleeding technique during routine maintenance or brake system repairs can introduce air into the brake lines. Inadequate bleeding procedures or failing to follow the manufacturer's recommended bleeding sequence can leave air pockets trapped in the system, affecting brake pedal feel and responsiveness.

3. Contaminated Brake Fluid

Contaminated brake fluid, such as fluid contaminated with moisture or debris, can lead to air buildup in the brake system over time. Moisture can enter the brake fluid through worn seals or improperly sealed brake fluid reservoir caps, while debris can accumulate in the fluid from dirty brake components or improper handling.

Having trouble doing it on your own? Don't worry, we don't blame you! Call LexBrodies , and we will schedule you for a visit ASAP.

Fun Games to Play On the Go

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 22:29:00 GMT

Embarking on a road trip is not just about reaching your destination—it's about the journey itself. Long stretches of road can be more enjoyable with the right games to keep everyone entertained. Here are some road trip game ideas to inject fun into your travels:

1. License Plate Bingo

Turn spotting license plates into a competitive game. Create bingo cards with different states or countries, and mark them off as you spot each one. The first to complete a row shouts "Bingo!" and can claim a small prize.

2. 20 Questions

A classic guessing game, 20 Questions is perfect for passing the time. One person thinks of an object, and the others have 20 chances to ask yes-or-no questions to figure out what it is.

3. Car Karaoke

Transform your car into a mobile stage with a karaoke session. Create a playlist of everyone's favorite songs and take turns belting out tunes. Bonus points for creativity and enthusiasm!

4. Road Trip Trivia

Prepare some road trip-themed trivia questions and see who in the car knows the most about travel, geography, and automotive history. Make it interesting with small prizes for correct answers.

5. The Alphabet Game

Starting with the letter 'A,' each person must find and call out words outside the car that begin with the next letter of the alphabet. The first to complete the alphabet wins.

6. Story Chain

Begin a collaborative story by having one person start with a sentence. The next person adds another sentence, and so on. Watch the story evolve in unexpected and hilarious ways.

7. Two Truths and a Lie

Take turns sharing two true statements and one false statement about yourself. The others in the car must guess which statement is the lie. It's a great way to learn more about your travel companions.

8. Name That Tune

Challenge each other to identify songs played on the radio or from a playlist in the shortest time possible. This game is perfect for music enthusiasts.

These road trip games are sure to turn your journey into a memorable adventure. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, these engaging activities will add an extra layer of enjoyment to the open road. So, pack your sense of humor and get ready to make lasting memories on your next road trip.

If you need a pre-trip inspection, turn to the auto repair experts in HI. LexBrodies is here to help you ensure your road trips are safe and seamless.

Why Is My Brake Pedal Hard to Push Down?

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:45:00 GMT

If you've ever experienced the unnerving sensation of a brake pedal that feels hard to push down, you're not alone. At LexBrodies , we recognize the importance of responsive brakes for your safety, and we're here to demystify the possible causes behind a stiff brake pedal and guide you on potential solutions.

1. Low Brake Fluid Levels

Insufficient brake fluid in the hydraulic system can lead to a hard brake pedal. Regularly check your brake fluid levels, and if they are low, it may indicate a leak or wear in the brake system that requires attention.

2. Air in the Brake Lines

Air trapped in the brake lines can impede the hydraulic pressure needed for effective braking. Brake bleeding, a process of removing air from the brake system, is often necessary to restore proper pedal feel.

3. Brake Booster Issues

A malfunctioning brake booster, responsible for amplifying the force applied to the brake pedal, can result in increased resistance. Problems with the vacuum or hydraulic system of the brake booster may necessitate professional inspection and repair.

4. Brake Pad or Shoe Problems

Worn-out or improperly aligned brake pads or shoes can contribute to a hard brake pedal. Regular brake inspections and timely replacement of worn components are crucial for maintaining optimal braking performance.

5. Brake Caliper Concerns

Sticky or seized brake calipers can restrict the movement of brake components, leading to increased pedal resistance. Regular maintenance and lubrication of caliper components are essential to prevent this issue.

If you're grappling with a hard-to-push brake pedal or want to ensure the health of your braking system, trust the expertise of LexBrodies . Our talented technicians can diagnose the issue, perform necessary repairs, and conduct comprehensive brake system checks to keep you safe on the road. Your safety is our priority!

7 Tips to Boost Your Car's Eco-Friendliness & Fuel Efficiency

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 21:54:00 GMT

In a world where environmental consciousness is paramount, making your car more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient is not just a trend but a responsible choice. Fortunately, achieving this doesn't require a major overhaul or a new vehicle purchase.

Here are seven practical tips to help you make your car greener and more economical.

Regular Maintenance Matters

Keeping your car well-maintained is the first step to enhancing fuel efficiency. Regular oil changes, clean air filters, and proper tire inflation contribute to smoother engine operation and improved gas mileage. A well-tuned engine also burns fuel more efficiently, reducing your carbon footprint - after all, who wants to visit the gas station every day.

Lighten the Load

The more weight your car carries, the more fuel it consumes. Evaluate the items in your trunk and remove unnecessary load. For every 100 pounds of excess weight, fuel efficiency can drop by 1–2%. Traveling light not only saves fuel but also makes your vehicle more eco-friendly.

Optimize Your Driving Habits

Aggressive driving, frequent speeding, and sudden stops are not only unsafe but also detrimental to your fuel efficiency. Adopting a smoother driving style, using cruise control on highways, and avoiding unnecessary idling can significantly improve your gas mileage and reduce emissions.
Also, keep in mind that driving aggressively damages a lot of the vital components connected to your engine and drivetrain.

Choose the Right Fuel

Selecting the appropriate fuel for your vehicle is crucial. Consider using cleaner alternatives such as ethanol blends or biodiesel if your car is compatible. Additionally, premium fuel might not always be necessary; check your owner's manual for the recommended fuel type and octane rating.

Choosing the right octane ratings plays a big role in engine health and efficiency since it reflects the fuel's resistance to spontaneous combustion, so make sure to use the right one.

Maintain Aerodynamic Efficiency

Wind resistance is a significant factor affecting fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds. Reduce drag by removing roof racks when not in use and keeping windows closed on highways. This simple step can lead to improved aerodynamics, resulting in better gas mileage.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Tires

Upgrading to low-rolling-resistance tires can make a notable difference in fuel efficiency. These tires minimize friction with the road, requiring less energy to move. While they may cost more initially, the long-term fuel savings and reduced emissions make them a sustainable choice.
It's also important to run the correct wheels for the season - more grip equals more fuel!

Embrace Eco-Friendly Technologies

Explore eco-friendly technologies that enhance fuel efficiency. Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming more accessible, offering a cleaner and more sustainable driving experience. If upgrading your vehicle is within your means, consider making the switch to a greener option.

Making your car more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient involves a combination of regular maintenance, conscious driving habits, and smart choices. But if you aren't really sure and are doubting certain things, make sure to contact us at LexBrodies , and we will be happy to help!

When Should I Replace Brake Rotors

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 22:23:00 GMT

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 essential process converts kinetic energy into heat, allowing your car to come to a safe and controlled stop.

Why Replace Brake Rotors?

Over time, due to consistent friction and heat, brake rotors undergo wear and tear, leading to the formation of grooves, scoring, and uneven surfaces. If neglected, these issues can compromise the efficiency of your braking system, resulting in diminished braking power, increased stopping distances, and potentially hazardous driving conditions. By replacing worn-out brake rotors, you ensure optimal braking performance, maximize safety, and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle's braking components.

When Should I Replace The Rotors?

Ensuring timely replacement of brake rotors is essential for maintaining the integrity of your vehicle's braking system and ensuring a safe driving experience. Recognizing these signs promptly allows you to address potential rotor issues before they escalate into more severe safety concerns.

Do you want to take your brake system performance to another level? LexBrodies offers some of the best vehicle-related services in the state of Hawaii, so don't hesitate to contact us when in need!

How Does Humidity Affect My Vehicle? Is There Anything I Can Do To Minimize the Effects?

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 21:13:00 GMT

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 surfaces. This is particularly problematic in areas where road salt is used during the winter months. The moisture in the air, combined with the salt, creates a corrosive environment that can lead to rust spots.

Moreover, the paint on your vehicle isn't safe from humidity either. High humidity can cause paint to peel or bubble, which not only affects your car's appearance but can also lead to further damage if left unchecked.

What Can Happen Under The Hood?

Your car's internal components aren't immune to humidity's influence. Moisture can seep into sensitive electrical connections, leading to malfunctions or short circuits. It can also affect your engine's performance by potentially corroding critical components.

Inside the Cabin

Humidity can have a noticeable impact on the comfort level inside your car. High humidity can make your interior feel stuffy and uncomfortable. Additionally, it provides an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to unpleasant odors and health concerns.

Minimizing the Effects of Humidity on Your Vehicle

Now that we understand how humidity can affect your vehicle, let's explore some practical steps to minimize its impact:

Contact LexBrodies for all of your vehicle maintenance and repair needs!

What are the Factors That Make a Tire Good?

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:47:00 GMT

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 quality of materials used in manufacturing and the tire's construction. Look for tires with reinforced sidewalls and strong inner layers. Premium tire brands often employ advanced rubber compounds that resist wear and tear, ensuring your investment lasts for thousands of miles.

3. Handling and Responsiveness

A good set of tires should enhance your vehicle's handling and responsiveness. The tire's sidewall stiffness, tread design, and overall construction impact how well your car responds to steering inputs. High-quality tires are designed to provide a balance between comfort and precise handling, making your driving experience smooth and controlled.

4. Quiet and Comfortable Ride: Silence on the Road

Nobody enjoys a noisy ride. A great set of tires minimizes road noise, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. This is achieved through innovative tread patterns that reduce vibrations and advanced tire technologies that absorb road irregularities.

5. Fuel Efficiency: Rolling Towards Savings

Did you know that your choice of tires can affect your fuel efficiency? Tires with lower rolling resistance require less energy to move, which translates to better gas mileage and reduced emissions. When shopping for tires, consider those that are designed to enhance fuel efficiency without compromising on other performance factors.

6. Seasonal Versatility: Adapting to Change

Living in an area with diverse weather conditions? Consider the seasonality of your tires. All-season tires are designed to perform well in a range of conditions, making them suitable for mild climates. On the other hand, winter tires offer superior grip in cold and snowy conditions, ensuring safety during harsh winters.

7. Brand Reputation and Reviews: The Wisdom of Experience

While researching tires, don't underestimate the importance of brand reputation and user reviews. Established tire manufacturers with a track record of producing high-quality products are more likely to offer tires that meet or exceed your expectations.

In the Search for the Best Specialists in Hawaii?

If you want to make sure your car is in good hands, LexBrodies is the place to stop at. We stand by our motive that we are not only a repair shop but we treat our customers as family. Call us at (808) 369-9516 and we will see you in the shop - Mahalo!

Decoding the Differences Between Timing Belts, Auxiliary Belts, and Timing Chains

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:45:00 GMT

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 Belt

The 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 typically located behind a protective cover within the engine compartment.

Maintenance: Timing belts have a limited lifespan and should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommended intervals, usually every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or based on the vehicle's age. Neglecting timely replacement can lead to belt failure, resulting in severe engine damage due to valve-to-piston interference.

Auxiliary Belt

The auxiliary belt, also referred to as a serpentine or drive belt, is a long belt that drives various engine accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and water pump. It transfers power from the crankshaft pulley to these components, enabling their operation. The auxiliary belt is usually wider than the timing belt and features grooves on one side to maintain traction with the accessory pulleys.

Maintenance: Similar to the timing belt, the auxiliary belt requires periodic inspection for signs of wear, cracking, or tension loss. If any issues are detected, such as excessive wear or squeaking noises, it is recommended to replace the belt promptly. Regular maintenance and timely replacements prevent belt failure and ensure uninterrupted operation of the engine accessories.

Timing Chain

Unlike belts, timing chains are made of metal and resemble bicycle chains. They serve the same purpose as timing belts—connecting the crankshaft to the camshaft(s) to synchronize valve timing. Timing chains are often more durable and have a longer lifespan compared to timing belts. They are commonly used in older vehicles or engines that require higher strength and durability.

Maintenance: Timing chains generally require less frequent maintenance than timing belts. However, they are not maintenance-free. Regular oil changes and oil filter replacements are essential to prevent premature wear of the timing chain and its associated components. If any signs of abnormal noise, vibration, or chain tension issues are observed, it is advisable to have the timing chain inspected and serviced by a qualified technician.

Do you need a new belt or chain?

If you think your vehicle's auxiliary belt is damaged or even broken, make sure to visit us at LexBrodies !

Keep Your Car Summer-Ready: 5 Essential Maintenance Tips

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:14:00 GMT

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 accumulated in the radiator fins to optimize airflow. Additionally, consider flushing and refilling the coolant according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

#3 Evaluate Tire Condition and Pressure

Hot pavement and long drives can take a toll on your tires. Check the tire pressure regularly, as heat can cause the air inside the tires to expand, potentially leading to overinflation. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer's specifications for optimal performance and improved fuel efficiency. Also, inspect the tire tread depth and sidewalls for any signs of wear or damage.

#4 Service the Air Conditioning System

Driving in hot weather without a functional air conditioning (A/C) system can be uncomfortable. Ensure that your A/C system is in optimal condition by having it inspected and serviced before summer arrives. This includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning or replacing the cabin air filter, and inspecting the compressor and other components for any leaks or malfunctions.

#5 Prepare an Emergency Kit

Summer road trips can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Put together an emergency kit that includes items like a spare tire, tire-changing tools, jumper cables, a flashlight, first aid supplies, and extra water. It's also wise to have a roadside assistance contact number handy in case you encounter any mechanical issues or emergencies on the road.

Did someone say maintenance? LexBrodies Honolulu is here to help before, during, and after the summer seasons so don't hesitate to visit us!

Road-Tripping In Hawaii? Here Are 7 Must-Visit Locations

Wed, 31 May 2023 20:33:00 GMT

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. Don't forget your camera, as the beauty of this natural wonder is truly unforgettable.

5. Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Experience the raw power of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Drive through the park and witness the mighty Kilauea volcano, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Explore the otherworldly landscapes, walk through lava tubes, and marvel at the mesmerizing glow of lava flows (if conditions permit).

4. North Shore, Oahu

Head to Oahu's North Shore, famous for its world-class surfing, charming beach towns, and laid-back vibes. Drive along Kamehameha Highway, stopping at iconic surf breaks like Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Indulge in delicious shrimp from one of the famous food trucks and soak in the captivating beauty of the coastline.

3. Haleakala National Park, Maui

Drive up to Haleakala National Park and witness the magic of the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala volcano. The breathtaking panoramic views and the ethereal landscapes make this an unforgettable experience. Take a hike through the lunar-like terrain or explore the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this volcanic environment.

2. Pololu Valley, Big Island

Discover the dramatic beauty of Pololu Valley, located on the northern coast of the Big Island. Take a scenic drive to the lookout point and marvel at the steep cliffs, black sand beach, and lush valleys. For the adventurous, hike down to the beach and feel the power of the waves crashing against the shore.

1. Na Pali Coast, Kauai

The legendary Na Pali Coast is a must-see on any road trip in Hawaii. While the full drive along the coast is not possible, you can still experience its majesty. Take a scenic drive to the lookout points at Koke'e State Park or embark on a thrilling helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view of the towering cliffs, secluded beaches, and cascading waterfalls.

Having issues on the road? Visit one of our locations! LexBrodies is ready to handle any car issue you might have so make sure to give one of our shops a call!

How To Clean Your Car's Exterior At Home Like A Pro

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 16:08:00 GMT

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 product that isn't harmful to the paint and, at the same time, will be effective at cleaning it. Also considers investing in an iron removal spray that will remove all the iron particles stuck in your paint.

4. Scrub The Car With A Microfiber Towel

After you apply the cleaning product, make sure to scrub the whole car from top to bottom with a microfiber towel. This will ensure that the paint doesn't get scratched but will still be cleaned.

5. Rinse The Door Frames

Before you rinse the whole car with clean water, open each door and carefully clean the door frame. This will make the car look much cleaner when the doors are opened.

6. Clean The Car With Water

After everything is scrubbed, clean the car with clean water and make sure to get into all the crevasses.

7. Wax Or Ceramic Cat The Exterior

The final step is optional but recommended. Consider investing in some kind of ceramic coating or at least an easy-to-apply wax. This will make sure the car's paint is shiny and protected.

If you spot any issues while cleaning our car, make sure to call us at LexBrodies Honolulu ! We will be happy to assist you with any surprise repairs or maintenance procedures.

Everything You Should Know About the ABS

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:05:00 GMT

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 sends the information to the ABS control module. If a sensor fails or malfunctions, the ABS may not function correctly, and the light may come on.

Bad ABS Control Module: The ABS control module is the computer that controls the ABS. If the module fails or malfunctions, the ABS may not work correctly, and the light may come on.

Faulty Brake Light Switch: The brake light switch is a small component that activates the brake lights when you press the brake pedal. If the button fails, the ABS may not work correctly, and the light may come on.

Corroded ABS Rings: The ABS rings are teethed rings mounted on each wheel's hub, which the ABS sensors use to measure wheel speed. If the rings become corroded or damaged, the ABS may not work correctly, and the light may come on.

What to Do When the ABS Light Comes On?

If the ABS light comes on, it is essential to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified auto repair shop as soon as possible. A technician will diagnose the problem using specialized diagnostic tools and perform the necessary repairs to restore the ABS's functionality.

Driving with a faulty ABS is dangerous, especially in slippery conditions or emergency braking situations. Without ABS, the vehicle's wheels could lock up, causing loss of control and potentially leading to an accident.

If the ABS light comes on, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified auto repair shop at Lexbrodies to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

Best Spots to Explore in Oahu

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 14:00:00 GMT

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 take a drive along Kalanianaole Highway and enjoy the scenic coastal views.

Kailua Beach: Kailua Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand with turquoise waters and lush greenery. You can take a drive along the Pali Highway and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the ocean.

Tantalus Lookout: The Tantalus Lookout offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Honolulu and the surrounding areas. You can take a scenic drive along Tantalus Drive, which winds through a tropical rainforest.

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse : The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. You can take a drive along Kalanianaole Highway and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
Waikiki: Waikiki is a popular tourist destination with world-famous beaches, shopping, and dining. You can drive along Ala Wai Boulevard and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the ocean.

If you plan to explore Oahu by car, be sure to check out some of these top spots. And don't forget to make sure your car is in good shape by taking your car to Lexbrodies before hitting the road!

What to Know About Alternator Repair/Replacement

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 22:00:00 GMT

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 using a multimeter. If it is not outputting enough voltages, we will recommend changing the alternator to a new one. Replacing an alternator can be a hassle, and it is time-consuming. That is why we recommend doing it at our auto repair shop, to reduce your vehicle’s downtime.

Typically, you don’t have to change your alternator like you would for tires or brake pads. They last a long time, 100,000 miles or more. You should replace them when they are no longer in working order. Soon after your alternator has problems, your car battery may die. That is why you should act quickly.

If you notice the warning symptoms of a faulty alternator, act sooner than later. We can inspect and service all your vehicle’s electrical system components at LexBrodies Honolulu. You can trust us to take care of your alternator repair/replacement.

What Causes the Airbag Light to Turn On?

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 16:51:00 GMT

What Causes the Airbag Light to Turn On?

This light looks like a driver with an airbag deployed. When it's on the dashboard, it indicates a problem with your Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). Airbags are part of the SRS, including seatbelts and sensors. But why is your airbag on, and you haven't been in any accident? Here are the most common reasons.

Battery Backup is Depleted

The light turns on when your vehicle's battery has recently drained and depleted the backup powering the airbags. However, it usually corrects itself when fully recharged.

Faulty Sensors

Different sensors in your vehicle are directly linked to the computer system to detect any problems. Sometimes these sensors, especially in the SRS, may fail or be triggered in case of minor accidents causing the airbag light to illuminate.

Wet Airbag Module

If your car has experienced water damage, it may affect the airbag module. It may corrode or get shorted out, preventing it from working correctly and triggering the warning light.

Damaged Airbag Clock Spring

The clock spring maintains continuity between the driver-side airbag and the vehicle's electrical wiring. When worn out, it causes poor connection leading to airbag failure.

What You Need to Know When Your Airbag Turns On in Your Car

The airbag system consists of various sensors and other components. When the light illuminates, it indicates a more significant issue or a computer glitch requiring a reset. Still, it is vital to have it diagnosed by an expert to keep you safe. However, here is what you need to know.

Regardless of the cause, ensure an expert helps you diagnose the problem to prevent further issues. Our technicians can help you, so call Lexbrodies today if you need help resetting your airbag.

Why Is My Car Noisy When Going Through Turns?

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 18:00:00 GMT

A good rule of thumb is that you should never ignore unusual noises that your car makes. As your vehicle ages, your vehicle will work harder and emit odd sounds, and they sometimes spell trouble. Depending on the nature of the sound, such as when it occurs, can tell what the issue could be. Read on to learn what could be behind your noisy turns. When your ride is in good working order, you shouldn't hear any noises as you travel. If you are experiencing loud turns, read on to learn what could be the culprit. Reasons Why Your Car Is Noisy When Going Through Turns Suspension Joints: Creaking and clunking are typical sounds that worn suspension parts will make during turns at low speeds. Struts and Shocks: Often controlling your vehicle over bumps and patches in the road, your shocks and struts can make noises once they're no longer effective. Power Steering Pump: Another common problem behind loud turns is a failing power steering pump. It can often be described as a whining noise. CV Joints: If you turn the steering wheel at high speeds and it emits a loud noise, your CV joints are likely the problem behind it. Low Power Steering Fluid: If you hear a piercing screech or whine as you make turns, it may be due to excess friction within the power steering system. Sometimes a little extra fluid is all that is required to stop this disruptive noise. Tie Rods: A loose or damaged tie rod will emit a clunking sound. Ball Joints: If you overhear creaking that gets louder over time, the culprit may be a faulty ball joint. If you need help getting to the bottom of your loud steering or turning, look no further than the automotive experts at LexBrodies. We invite you to give us a call or visit our auto repair shop today.

What Are the Signs of a Failing Battery?

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:14:00 GMT

What Causes a Dead Battery?

There are several reasons why your car battery is dying or not performing optimally, which include:

Signs of a Dying Car Battery

The following are the top 5 most common signs of a battery in need of a thorough check or replacement:

Clicking Sound When You Turn the Key

A weak battery will send insufficient power to the starter when you try to start the engine. Reduced power supply to the starter will cause it to emit a clicking sound.

Dim Headlights

A dying battery cannot supply adequate power to all electrical systems, including the headlights. If you notice your lights are dimmer than usual, check your battery.

Slow Start or Sluggish Crank

A slow and dragging engine start is a sure sign that your battery is on its last legs. Your engine should crank up quickly unless outside temperatures have dipped dramatically. If not, the starter isn't getting insufficient power from the battery.

The battery is Swollen or Smells Funny

If your battery appears bloated and smells of rotten eggs, it is damaged beyond repair. This could result from a bad voltage regulator in the alternator, which results in overcharging, causing the battery to produce excess gas.

The Battery is Old

Car batteries can last up to five years. If your battery is a few years old, check it regularly to ensure it produces sufficient power and charges correctly. An old battery will fail sooner or later, so be vigilant to identify any signs of battery failure.

If you need a car battery replacement, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Lexbrodies today!

Advantages of Rotating Your Tires

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 17:40:00 GMT

If you’ve been a good vehicle owner who is on top of their maintenance, then you are probably familiar with tire rotation services. Tire rotation service is the process of switching the position of your tires from front to rear or side to side. Tire rotation is one of the most important services you can get to maintain your tires. This service ensures even tire wear, improves gas mileage, promotes safe handling, and more. You should aim to rotate your tires every time you change your oil. Read on to learn about the pros of rotating your tires.

#1: Improve Fuel Mileage

One of the biggest benefits of tire rotations is improved efficiency. When your tires wear evenly, it requires less energy for your tires to roll on the road. Your engine won’t have to work hard to get wherever you need to go.

#2: Longer Tire Life

Another major advantage of tire rotations is that it extends the life of your tires. With even tire treads, your tires can last for years longer than tires that haven’t been properly cared for. In turn, you save money on tires in the long run when you don’t have to replace tires as often.

#3: Better Handling

Tire rotations can better your vehicle handling. Your tires will obtain better traction and grip the road properly. You can maintain better contact with the road, even in slippery conditions.

#4: Increase Safety

Another benefit of tire rotation is that it can help to make your driving safer. This is because rotating your tires helps to ensure even wear. When all four tires are wearing evenly, they will provide better traction. This can help to prevent accidents, especially in slippery conditions.

If your vehicle is due for a tire rotation, we invite you to Lexbrodies today! We can help you maintain your tires so that they can last for years to come.

Is Your Car Ready for Back-to-School Season?

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Back-to-school season is right around the corner. While you may be busy shopping for school supplies, clothes, and shoes, for your kids, we’re here to remind you not to forget about your car. Most of you will be back in the routine of dropping your children off for school and practice soon, and the team at LexBrodies Honolulu is ready to help you with all your car care so that you and your family can be safe.

Here are the top 3 auto services that we think you should get for the back-to-school season:

General Inspection

There’s no better time to get a multi-point inspection. Our professionals can check your vehicle bumper-to-bumper for any potential problems. If we detect minor problems, we can fix them early on so you can dodge extensive repairs. Plus, it’ll give you peace of mind knowing that your brakes, battery, wipers, etc. are safe.

Tire Pressure Check

Your tires should always be properly inflated. Fortunately, checking your tire pressure is an easy task that most drivers can manage on their own time. Your manufacturer has recommended PSI ranges that your tires should be inflated to. Not only will your tires wear evenly, but you’ll be safe and obtain better fuel efficiency by being proactive.

Oil Change

Of course, we can’t forget about the famous oil change. With more miles put on your car during the school year, you’ll definitely need clean oil running throughout your engine. It will keep your vehicle cool and lubricated so that it can continue to run smoothly.

If you need assistance with any of the above services, please schedule your back-to-school auto service with Lexbrodies today. Feel free to call our team or schedule an appointment online.

What Is Oil Sludge and How Does It Hurt My Car?

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 14:52:00 GMT

Oil lubricates your engine and protects it against frictional damage. It contains anti-foaming agents, anti-oxidants, dispersants, and detergents that protect the engine. However, with continued use, it forms an oil sludge. With time, contaminants such as dirt, dust, water, and coolant, build up and oxidize due to the engine's intense heat.

When these contaminants combine with oxidation in the engine, it forms a thick gel called engine or oil sludge. Preventing engine sludge formation is vital since it can damage your car.

How Oil Sludge Hurts Your Car

Oil protects the engine by cooling and absorbing contaminants. But, with time, it reaches its absorption capacity and deposits them on the engine instead. It hinders adequate engine lubrication and increases friction, causing overheating. The heat causes engine parts to rapidly wear out, lowering your car's efficiency.

It also reduces your engine's lifespan by blocking the oil screen siphon, preventing proper circulation and lubrication. Besides overheating, poor lubrication causes most engine parts to melt. This exposes your cooling system, timing belt, radiator, and gasket to severe damage with costly repairs. Engine sludge also weakens oil flow, causing a decrease in oil pressure and fuel efficiency.

How to Prevent Oil Sludge Formation

Oil is usually considered the lifeblood of your engine. Regular change is the single best practice to prevent oil sludge formation. But there are other ways to avoid a build-up.

Your car is designed to warn when there is a problem. Check the dashboard warning lights regularly and for other signs of trouble. But if you are due for an oil change, bring your car to Lexbrodies today.

Why Do You Need to Change Your Cabin Air Filters?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 17:37:00 GMT

Your car is a lifetime investment. It protects you from the cold and rain and saves you from public transportation. With a machine hosting such benefits, the last thing you may want is to maintain it. Unfortunately, many people think car maintenance is all about changing oil, tire, and wiper blades replacements.

Do you know your car's cabin air filter? Well. It is a component that filters the air entering your car. So, how often do you neglect to check this item?

For some, it is quite frequent. Others feel like they should drive their car forever without maintaining air filters. But this is not always the case with any vehicle. In fact, a poorly maintained cabin air filter can alter your overall driving experience. Sometimes, it is unhealthy and unpleasant to you and your passengers. Here are reasons why you should have your cabin air filter replaced.

Improved comfort

Pollution is one of the primary reasons you need to change your cabin air filter. In fact, the cabin air filter is the component standing between the air you breathe and that from the outside. Thus, replacing a new cabin air means efficiency, comfort, and less odor. It will also maintain the interior's aesthetic top-notch.

Improved HVAC airflow

The engine of your car powers the HVAC system via a cabin air filter. If your cabin air filter is clogged or dirty, you are making your engine strain powering the air conditioning. If the cabin air is clean, you are giving your engine an easy time powering the HVAC system. And this means better fuel efficiency, a quieter AC, and a comfortable ride.

Reduced allergens

Do you have allergies? You know how frustrating they are, especially if you reside in states with massive pollen seasons. Thankfully, cabin air filters can help reduce the number of allergens entering your vehicle. Pollen quickly builds up during heavy seasons, so you might want to replace the cabin air filter sooner.

How often do you need to replace your cabin air filter?

Many manufacturers recommend changing your air cabin filter after 1200-15000 miles. But if you are living in areas with massive pollen, it is advisable to replace your cabin air filter more regularly.

If you are in need of a cabin air filter change, please do not hesitate to bring your car to Lexbrodies. Feel free to give us a call or schedule an appointment online with us today.

Causes of a Sluggish Car

Thu, 26 May 2022 17:58:00 GMT

Having a car that is in good condition is what every car owner wants. A car that can take you from point A to point B as fast as possible with minimal faults.

When you need all these then a car with a slow acceleration is a nuisance. When a car is sluggish then it means it has slow acceleration which could be caused by a failure in some of the engine components or the car is too old.

A car with slow acceleration even after you have floored the gas pedal is very risky especially if you are driving through a busy road or overtaking in a risky area. Here are some of the causes of a sluggish car;

If the oxygen sensor is used for tracking oxygen release and scrutinize the air-fuel ratio that flows to engine fails, the engine fails to modulate the air-fuel balance which results to low engine power. when the engine lacks power then there is slow acceleration.

Clogged Fuel filter

The fuel system is very instrumental to the acceleration of every vehicle. This is because the fuel system is used for the storage and supply of fuel to a cylinder chamber where fuel is vaporized, mixed with air and burned to produce the energy required for the combustion process that makes sure the vehicle moves from one point to the other.

While accelerating and the car lacks output then the fuel system has problems. The most common fault is always a clogged fuel filter which works to make sure dirt and debris don't get to the fuel system.

Exhaust system

A hole or a clog in the exhaust pipes can slow acceleration and make the car feel sluggish.

Also, a malfunction such as oxygen sensors and the catalytic convertor could cause the car to feel sluggish.

Transmission problems.

Your engine may be in mint condition but a problem in the transmission system could hinder the car from shifting as required especially when going uphill or negotiating a corner.

This transmission problem could make the car feel sluggish.

Timing belt problems

Timing belts manage your entire engine pistons by controlling the timing of the entire process. Misalignment of the timing belt could result in acceleration issues which make the vehicle feel sluggish.

If you need vehicle repair or diagnostics give Lexbrodies a call.

Top 7 Signs That Your Car Needs A Coolant Flush

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 15:11:00 GMT

Caring for your cars coolant system should be part of your regularly scheduled car maintenence routine. The coolant system in your car is the key to how well your vehicle operates in extreme heat, extreme cold and everything in between. Here are the top 7 signs your vehicle may be in need of a coolant flush sooner rather than later.

Vehicle Running Hot And Overheating

If your temperature gauge is running high or close to the danger zone while driving you might want to schedule that coolant flush before you have a bigger problem to deal with.

Steaming Hood

If you notice steam coming from under the hood or hear a hissing sound escaping from under the hood, you should schedule a coolant flush

Coolant Leak or Discoloration

If you start noticing a puddle of liquid under your car that has a greenish tint or a sweet smell it means you have a coolant leak and you should schedule a coolant flush as soon as possible. Also if you notice a discoloration in your coolant you want to get any dirt or debris flushed as soon as possible.

Coolant Level Low

If your low coolant warning light comes on or you notice that your cooloant level is low this should be a hint to schedule a coolant flush.

Cracks or Leaks

If you notice any cracks or leaks in any hosesd or belts near the radiator you want to have them fixed as soon as possible.

Blowing Cold Air

If your car is blowing cold air when you have the heat turned on this is a sign you want to get that coolant flush soon.

Maple Syrup Smell

While most of us like the smell of pancakes with syrup, this is not something you want to smell coming from your car. This sweet smell coming from your car could be a sign it is in need of a coolant flush.

If you think your car needs a cooling system service, we invite you to bring your vehicle into Lexbrodies today!

What are the Signs of Worn Shocks and Struts?

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 17:03:00 GMT

If your shocks or struts start failing, it could lead to disaster. So how do you notice the signs of worn shocks or struts?

Shocks and Struts: What's the Difference?

A vehicle's struts are a major part of your suspension system. It both acts as a shock absorber and provides structural support for your suspension system. A shock absorber, however, does only one job. Absorbing the shock from movements in your suspension system. Your shocks do not support the weight of your vehicle or provide structural support. So what are the signs these components are failing?

#1 — Dipping or Leaning During Use

If you notice your vehicle leaning to one side while making a sharp turn, this could be a sign of a worn shock or strut. Another sign is the front end dipping lower than usual if you have to step on the brakes harder than usual.

#2 — Instability at High Speeds

If you're on the highway, and your vehicle feels shaky, this might be an indicator that your suspension system is in trouble. The movements will often be slight, so pay extra attention and get your car to a mechanic if you notice this occurring.

#3 — Leaking Fluid

If you suspect your shocks or struts may be failing, it might be a good idea to take a look at them. If they're leaking any kind of fluid, the seal might have broken, releasing the fluid that helps it absorb impacts from the road. If they are, get to a mechanic as soon as possible.

Suspension Service With a Smile

If you have an issue with your suspension system, then we'd be happy to help. We can diagnose and solve any issues you might come across out on the road, and leave you driving away content!

How Do Brake Rotors Get Warped?

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:25:00 GMT

Vehicle braking systems are composed of various parts, including rotors. Rotors are oversized metal discs that can often be seen behind a car's wheels. A common problem with rotors is that they can sometimes warp. You might wonder, how does it even happen?

Rotors can't warp on their own unless an external force like heat interferes with their performance. When they have been exposed to extremely hot conditions, the rotors can bend.

For your overall braking process to work correctly, the brake pads must even apply against the rotor. However, excess friction can cause some brake pad materials to form a leaking substance which can get onto the brake rotors. Once this residue drops onto the rotor, uneven surface levels can cause.

Lastly, drivers with terrible brake habits can also contribute to uneven rotors. For instance, riding the brakes for prolonged periods of time can cause hot brake pads to drip the rotors. To prevent a warped rotor from occurring, please remember to go easy on your brakes.

People living in a city with many hills or heavy traffic may notice that their brake components wear down quicker than those in flat, suburban areas.

Common Signs of Warped Rotors

Warped rotors can cause signs such as squeaky sounds. The vehicle may also feel jittery or shaky once pressure is applied to the brake pedal. Lastly, your vehicle may also suffer from random vibrations .

If you suspect you have brake issues, especially distorted brake rotors, our mechanics at Lexbrodies may be of help. In most cases, warped rotors can be restored and refinished to ensure you attain efficient and smooth braking. Please give us a call or visit today!

Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 14:18:00 GMT

Just because Hawaii appears to get all sun doesn't mean that driving conditions are always stable. In fact, Hawaii's rain season spans from November to March. When it rains, driving inevitably becomes more dangerous. However, being behind the wheel with a rain-covered windshield doesn't have to be a nerve-wracking experience. We've created a trusty checklist to keep in mind whenever it starts pouring during your drive.

Tip #1: Stay alert

This advice is a no-brainer, but you must stay extra attentive to your surroundings when weather conditions aren't ideal. Drivers should practice defensive driving and remember to check their blind spots frequently.

Tip #2: Use your headlights

Please remember to turn on your headlights in bad weather when visibility is low. Many states even have laws requiring drivers to put on their headlights in certain conditions, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

Tip #3: Careful with hydroplaning

Whenever a surplus of water sits on the road, it can make your tires lose traction and hydroplane. Hydroplaning is considered very dangerous as your wheels could lock up and make you lose control of your vehicle. This is why it is crucial to regularly check your tire tread so that you can replace your tires on time.

Tip #4: Slow down and turn off cruise control

Wet roads can be very challenging to drive on, which is why you should slow your speed to decrease the likelihood of hydroplaning. You should also never use cruise control whenever it rains, as it can cause you to go faster than usual.

Tip #5: Brake carefully

One primary common cause of vehicle accidents in the rain is drivers slamming on their brakes too late. The wet road is extra slippery, making it very easy for you to lurch forward after braking. To be safe, you should brake gently and early to caution the driver behind you that you are slowing down.

For more helpful tips and reliable auto services in Honolulu, HI, Kalihi, HI, Pearlridge, HI, Waipahu, HI, and Kaneohe, HI, please call or visit Lexbrodies today!

How to Determine If You Need New Tires

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 15:31:00 GMT

Tire tread is the key factor that indicates when you need to replace your vehicle's tires. Tread provides you with the necessary traction to safely stop and turn. Lastly, treads on your tires help funnel water out from under the tire to minimize hydroplaning on wet roads.

The U.S. Department of Transportation suggests that motorists replace tires when they've worn down to 2/32 inch (or 1.6 mm).

Signs of Wear

Besides tread depth of less than 2/32 inch, other signs can indicate the need for new tires, including:

While tread depth is an obvious indicator, it can be difficult to measure an increment that tiny. Most professionals use a tread depth gauge to measure tread. But if you don't have one on hand, you can use a penny.

How to Do the Penny Test

The penny test has always been a quick and convenient method to measure your tire tread. Here are the steps on how to do the penny test :

If you are in need of new tires, you can depend on the experts at Lexbrodies to help you test, choose, and install your tires. We can also help you with all your other tire services so that you can maintain a safe and reliable ride. Please give us a call or visit one of our locations to make an appointment!

Should I Get Fully Synthetic Oil?

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 20:34:00 GMT

How do you know which type is best suited for your vehicle with multiple engine oils to choose from? Fortunately, the process of finding a good match doesn't have to be overwhelming, and it is relatively easy. First and foremost, you should always check your manufacturer's recommendations (listed in your owner's manual). When making this decision, you should also consider driving habits, vehicle style, and environmental factors (climate). Here's a deeper look at the different types of oil you can get for your vehicle!

Full Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil has many attractive attributes. For instance, it has a higher viscosity, which can withstand sludge buildup, hot temperatures, and corrosion. Synthetic oil is also more consistent in formulation, which minimizes the friction inside the engine and increases overall efficiency. If you own a high-performance vehicle, synthetic oil is the preferable option. The only setback of synthetic motor oil is its higher price tag. However, it is justifiable as you don't have to get oil changes as frequently.

Conventional Oil

Conventional oil is best suited for light-duty, older-model vehicles with simplistic engines. In summary, if you don't drive regularly or have an older car, conventional oil might make the most sense.

Synthetic Blend Oil

Synthetic blend oil is a perfect balance between conventional and full synthetic oil. It is a middle ground, and it attracts individuals who want to make the switch but want to save money. Blends have some of the benefits of full synthetics at a lower price point.

Conclusion

If your budget permits, most auto experts will recommend using full synthetic motor oil. It is excellent at boosting engine performance and lifespan while letting you get away with less frequent services. If you can't handle the extra cost, you can also try a blend. Changing oil types shouldn't harm your engine, and you might even save some dough in the long run. If you require an oil service soon, we welcome you to Lexbrodies Honolulu.

What Is a Car Warranty?

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 18:44:00 GMT

An auto warranty is an important factor to consider when it comes to purchasing a car. It is a contract that compensates for the cost of repairing or replacing parts of your vehicle for some time. However, not all car warranties are created equally, which is why you must read over the fine print before making your purchase.

Factory Warranty

If you bought your vehicle from a dealership, you probably have a factory or manufacturer’s warranty. This type of warranty is possible for new, used, and certified pre-owned cars to cover any defective parts caused by any assembly errors. It is also only valid up to a certain number of miles or years. Some manufacturers are more forgiving than others, so that the numbers can vary. Another feature of the factory warranty is that it is movable from one owner to another as long as it hasn’t expired or been terminated.

Unfortunately, they can void the contract if you fail to follow factory guidelines, such as keeping up with regular maintenance services like oil changes, fluid flushes, and more.

Does Service at Places Other Than the Dealership Void a Factory Warranty?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stated that it is illegal for any dealer to refuse your warranty coverage if you choose to get your routine maintenance or repairs done somewhere else. Most of the time, independent technicians or even your knowledge and skills can do the job just as good of a job, if not better.

To get a bang for your buck out of your factory warranty, please go over your warranty before making any decisions concerning your car. For all your automotive needs, please give Lexbrodies a call or visit today!

What Are Common Causes of Tire Blowouts?

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 19:42:00 GMT

At first, you may think that a tire blowout is the same as a flat tire, but they are not the same. Flat tires typically have a slower pressure loss, whereas blowouts encompass rapid pressure loss and happen more dramatically. Because most of today's tires on the market are usually very reliable, blowouts don't occur as often as they did in the past. However, they are still possible! Here are the six most common causes of tire blowouts!

Road Damage

We all know that the road is a dangerous place to be. Rubble and potholes can wipe out a tire in a blink of an eye if you are not careful. You can blow out a tire when you drive over something you may not have seen while driving. Things like glass or a nail can sneak up on you and be just as dangerous as hitting a curb. Running over these items in the road in combination with poor quality tires can result in a blowout!

Too Low of Air

Underinflated tires pose a higher risk for a tire blowout. If your tires don't have enough air, the sides of your tires will wear thinner than the rest. Your tires will not spare you if a puncture like a nail grazes the side of your tires.

Uneven Tread

Tires that aren't rotated and up to the manufacturer's standards wear down unevenly, and this uneven tread wear increases your risk of many hazards, including a blowout.

Overworn or Defective Tires

Lastly, if your tires are old and need to be replaced from years of wear and tear, then you may be susceptible to blowouts. Furthermore, if they are defective, they may blow out due to the tire manufacturer's error. To stay on top of your tires' condition, you should have them inspected every 6,000 miles to ensure they are operational and safe.

For all your tire maintenance and repair needs, please bring your vehicle to Lexbrodies. Give us a call or visit if you need your tires replaced ASAP!

What Causes Vehicle Oil Leaks?

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 21:58:00 GMT

Every car will experience a leak from time to time. However, be wary of an oil leak because it can lead to major complications if left unattended. The most apparent indication of an oil leak is if you see a dark puddle of oil underneath your car. You may also be able to smell it since oil gives off a distinct scent. The problem with oil leaks is that they can be hazardous to the environment and harm your engine. Here are some of the most common causes of oil leaks that we see here at LexBrodies:

Damaged or Worn Seals

The system that stores your engine oil has gaps in it that are supplied with valves or seals . If these components become damaged or old, it can cause oil to seep out of the system.

Broken Oil Pan

Damaged pans usually emerge from collisions or when you run over rubble on the road. The oil pan is situated very close to the ground, which causes it to damage easily. Do your best to avoid road impediments when you're driving.

Old Filter

Oil filters are responsible for collecting high levels of debris from regular wear and tear. A clogged oil filter can create leaks if not monitored or changed regularly. Each time you service your car, ask your technician to examine your filter to ensure it is clean and intact.

Bad Oil Drain Plug

When you get an oil change, your mechanic will remove the oil drain plug to drain all of the old engine oil out of your car. Over time, this plug can loosen or misalign after a service. This is a pretty common cause for oil leaks, but thankfully it is a simple fix. You should still have your drain plug fixes as soon as possible to prevent damage and waste of oil.

Ignoring oil leaks can lead to harmful consequences. You can prevent oil leaks from occurring to your beloved automobile with routine oil changes and regular maintenance by our trained technicians at LexBrodies. If you encounter an oil leak, please call or visit our locations in HI for instant repairs.

How to Extend the Life of Your Brakes

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 02:47:00 GMT

Your vehicle's braking system is the most important safety feature of your car, which is why you should always replace them on time. Your brake pads will last about every 50,000 miles, but they can vary depending on driving conditions and usage. Here are our top tips on how to prolong the life of your brake pads.

Avoid Speeding

Surprise-surprise, but speeding never ends well for anybody. If you hit a full and complete stop after ramping up your RPM, you are at risk of prematurely wearing out your brake pads. Brake pads operate by converting energy into heat – and this means they become worn out more quickly the more energy they have to dissipate. If you slow down slowly, you can save wear and tear on your brake pads. Another negative of hurrying into a stop is that you're wasting excess gas.

Only Use 1 Foot

As you probably learned all the way back from Driver's Ed, you should only have one foot operating both the brake and acceleration pedals. "Two-footing" your pedals is an awful habit to get into because brake taps are more likely to happen.

Lighten the Load

If you tend to keep a lot of junk in your car, all those items can collectively weigh a lot. Carrying heavy loads will lead to a heavy strain on your brake pads. At your convenience, lighten the load by getting rid of trash and unnecessary items in your car.

Flush Your Brakes

It is recommended that your brake should be bled and flushed every two years. Doing so will help your brakes work more effectively and keep their internal parts running longer. Over time, moisture can also cause internal corrosion, reducing the lifespan of brake parts like rubber seals.

Brake Service in Hawaii

We hope these tips help you save some time and money on brake maintenance. If you require a brake pad replacement, then our trusted mechanics at LexBrodies can do the job. We have been operating in Hawaii for 60 years! Give us a call or visit one of our 5 locations today.

Symptoms of a Cooling System Failure

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 17:49:00 GMT

Every time you start your car, the engine heats up from the combustion processes. Sometimes, it can reach extreme temperatures. As a result, every car is built with a cooling system to prevent your engine from overheating. The heating system functions by eliminating excess heat from the engine. It also sustains an optimum operating temperature inside the vehicle and restores the appropriate temperature to the engine. The cooling system is thus vital to assure you of a dependable ride from Point A to Point B.

The cooling system comprises many parts that work together -- Radiator , Fan , Thermostat , Water Pump , and Freeze Plug are only several among others. If any of these pieces malfunction, it will bring about significant danger to the engine. The good thing is that it is relatively simple to detect trouble within the cooling system. Some of the symptoms that indicate a failing cooling system include:

Smoke Arising From the Hood

If you notice smoke coming from your car hood, please pull over on the side of the road and inspect the components beneath the hood. You can add coolant or water to bring down the temperature as you wait to get to our auto repair shop. Failure to take action might cause damage such as a blown head gasket and other serious issues.

Rising Temperature Gauge

Most of the time, this is a telling sign that indicates cooling system failure. The needle will rise to the red zone (sometimes paired with the "H" symbol for Hot) on your dashboard.

Low Coolant Level

If the coolant level runs below what is recommended in the vehicle's manual, it may mean you have a faulty cooling system. As a result, there is a potential leak of coolant that requires mechanical intervention.

White Exhaust Smoke

An overheating vehicle can occasionally produce white fumes. The white smoke might be a result of a coolant burn in the engine's combustion chamber. However, it is enough reason to fret since it could signify a crack in the engine block.

Proper maintenance of the cooling system is necessary to ensure you do not get stranded on the road, among other nuisances. If you need your coolant inspected for any repairs, LexBrodies Honolulu is here to assist you.

What Are the Symptoms of Dirty Fuel Injectors?

Tue, 18 May 2021 22:03:00 GMT

Your engine fuel injectors can collect grime, dirt, and soot leading to an air-fuel mixture imbalance for your car. When this happens, you may notice poor performance, rough idling, and inconsistent gas mileage over time. Spotting these signs and having your fuel injectors cleaned could help you optimize engine performance early enough. That said, obtaining effective engine performance is impossible with a clogged fuel injector.

How to Detect a Dirty Fuel Injector

Regular maintenance, profound injector function understanding, and knowledge to identify a dirty fuel injector could be helpful for every car owner. You will know it is time to visit your mechanic to clean your defective fuel injectors if you experience the following:

Engine Stalls or Rough Idle

Your car may sputter or shake, mostly during traffic stops. The engine idling is mainly due to inconsistent revolutions per minute (RPMs). A sudden decrease in fuel supply, especially during uphill climbing, may accompany rough idling. Sometimes, you may have to restart the car due to insufficient fuel supply. If you experience the two, then your fuel injectors need cleaning.

The Engine Misfires

The most common sign of engine misfire is when the vehicle sputters and poor acceleration even when you step on the fuel peddle. This scenario is possible because when the engine misfires, sending vibrations you can feel while in the car. Misfire happens mostly because dirty injectors lead to an imbalance between air and fuel entering the engine.

Bad Fuel Economy

When your fuel injectors are dirty, your journey may be accessioned with unusual gas refill stops due to inefficient fuel-air mixture. While other engine problems may cause you to visit a mechanic, a lousy gas millage off from what the manufacturers promote could signal that something is wrong with your fuel injectors.

The RPM Needle Starts to Dance

With a dirty fuel injector, you may notice unpredictable movements of the needle on the tachometer.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light should always alert you to visit your mechanic whenever the fuel injector malefactions.

Get Fuel Injector Cleaning and Services Today

The above information remains essential in detecting a dirty fuel injector. Therefore, if you need fuel injection system cleaning by a reputable auto shop, visit us or give our auto repair shop a call today!

We also offer the best value for Brake Repair and New Tires on Oahu!

Please click below to view our Brake Repair and Tires Services.

Symptoms That Indicate You May Need a Tune-Up

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 18:14:00 GMT

When you see one of those pesky icons light up on your dashboard, check the owner's manual to identify what that icon means. It may be time for a tune-up.

Your average gas mileage is dropping for no apparent reason. If you keep track of your mileage every time you fill up, you'll be able to spot trouble with your car's gas-burning efficiency quickly. Have your mechanic check the spark plugs and fuel injector. A tune-up may be just what your car needs to smooth out your ride.

Slow acceleration and stalling can be quite annoying when you're driving. These are signs that you have dirty spark plugs or a loose connector. Also, your battery may be running low or your fuel pump may be plugged. Tell your mechanic what the weather conditions are when your car stalls. On hot days, you may be experiencing difficulties with the air conditioner. A tune-up may fix the problems.

When you're driving on a smooth road, do you notice strange vibrations? Does this happen only at certain speeds? Your car is suffering from some internal problem. A tune-up may be all that it takes to solve it.

Is your car making loud sounds when you accelerate? Does it idle roughly? You may have spark plug or engine problems. A tune-up may be the solution. Your mechanic will be able to pinpoint the real issue if you bring it into the shop for a check-up.

You're having more and more difficulty starting your car over time. Have your mechanic check the battery and the fuel pump. Chances are the problem is simple. Your ignition may need a tune-up.

A misfire is a sure sign of problems with the ignition, fuel system, or engine problems. Don't wait. Have the car tuned up immediately.

If your car veers to one side, you may have wheel alignment issues or wear and tear.

No noticeable problems? Check your car manufacturer's recommendations on how often you should get it tuned up. Follow those recommendations.

If it's time for a tune-up, bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today!

What Are the Most Common Exhaust System Problems

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 19:18:00 GMT

A car's optimum performance depends largely on the exhaust system. The system has the responsibility of emitting gases and other combustion components from the automotive engine. If further reduces any unnecessary noise generated, making the ride comfortable and smooth.

The exhaust system is a composition of different components that work collaboratively in achieving its functions. These parts include:

If there is trouble with any of the components, the functioning of the exhaust system is compromised. There are common exhaust system troubles that many drivers have report. They require immediate mechanical interventions to ensure safety while on the road. They include;

Bad Oxygen Sensor

Oxygen sensors are responsible for balancing the air and fuel mixture. They are located in the exhaust system. Their malfunctions are common, and this affects the computer engine. It results in improper air-fuel mixture balance, which mostly results in a clogged catalytic converter. It damages the car system, and there is a need to get it fixed to maintain the exhaust system's functionality.

Rust

Rust is among the most common exhaust system troubles. With time, the rust might form bumps and cause physical damage to the car components. The accumulation of rain, snow, and salt causes corrosion and holes in the muffler pipes and resonators, among other exhaust system components, which compromises its functionality.

Loose Components

Another common plague for the exhaust system is loose parts. These are common to detect through rustling sounds while driving. The sounds could indicate loose brackets, a detached exhaust pipe, or a loose heat shield. Apart from an uncomfortable ride, the loosed parts cause more damages to the vehicle, and getting them diagnosed and fixed is always an excellent solution.

Exhaust Leaks

The driving conditions might impact the vehicle's functionality as many parts may find it challenging to withstand the conditions. Constant driving on rough roads impacts the longevity period of the exhaust system. The shaking and bumping might cause cracks in the exhaust system, which leads to the leaking of poisonous fume in the cabin. The damages place the car occupants in danger.

Constant exhaust systems checks are important to ensure the vehicle functions to its full potential. For all exhaust system repairs, visit our auto repair shop today!

Which is Better For Tires - Nitrogen or Air?

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 20:11:00 GMT

Tires have a vital role when it comes to your vehicle. The lifespan of your tires is something that many don't tend to pay a lot of attention to. Recently, there have been a lot of conversations on maintenance of tires. It is extremely important that you keep your tires taken care of no matter what. A big topic of discussion is if nitrogen or is air better for tires?

For years now many commercial vehicles have been using nitrogen to inflate their tire. This has been done for numerous amounts of reasons. In more recent years it has been marketed that nitrogen is a good choice for your everyday car tires. There are some things that you should consider when you're looking at if nitrogen or air is a better choice for inflating your tires.

There are advantages to both nitrogen and air for your tires. If you need tire services, give our auto repair shop a call today!

Why Isn't My Car Heater Working?

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 23:34:00 GMT

It's a beautiful but cold morning, and you have errands to run. On entering your vehicle and driving off, you suddenly realize the heater is blowing out cold air rather than warm air. You are bound to be frustrated and cold. It could even be downright unbearable. To make it worse, you can't even defrost the mirrors and windows to get rid of condensation. A car heater that isn't working can be the bane of your existence.

So, why isn't the heater working?

Your car heater can stop working due to several reasons:

Ineffective cooling system

Your car's cooling system works like a radiator. Once you ignite your vehicle, the engine heats up to a certain temperature. With the aid of the thermostat, it heats the coolant that is made up of a 50/50 percent ratio of antifreeze and water. The mixture passes through the heating core, and then a fan blows the warm air from the core into the cabin of your vehicle. If the level of the coolant is too low, there's air in the system, or the core isn't working, making the car heater ineffective. If the coolant contains contaminants, it may also prevent the distribution of heated air within the cabin.

A defective fan

Once the fan stops working, heated air will not reach the cabin of your vehicle. Listen in to determine if the fan is running. If you don't hear anything, then the fan is your culprit. A defective fan could be the result of a blown fuse. You may need to replace either the fuse or the fan itself.

Dysfunctional thermostat

If the thermostat gauge is stuck on the 'C,' especially after the engine has had enough time to warm up, then your thermostat is broken. This means it isn't opening up to allow coolant through it to form the core. A dysfunctional thermostat may cause your vehicle to overheat, so consult a technician and have it replaced as soon as you can.

Problems with the heater core

Another possible culprit for your car heater not working is associated with heater core difficulties. The heater core is a cooling system part made of aluminum or brass that carries hot coolant in and out alongside the fans that disperse heat brought in by the coolant. They are responsible for heating and defrosting. Telltale signs that show the heater is not working include fog inside the car, an overheating engine, a fruity sweet-smelling odor, or your car using up coolant very fast.

Water leaks

There are many different places in your car from which leaks can surface. Check your radiator, hoses, and water pump for any damages. If any of these parts are leaking, the car heater will not work correctly.

An effective heating system makes a ride during the cold season much more enjoyable. If you notice any of these heating issues, bring your vehicle to our reputable auto repair shop today for expert attention.

It May Be Time to Change Your Vehicles Thermostat

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 11:13:00 GMT

There's cold air blowing through the heater vents.
If the thermostat is stuck open, the temperature within the engine will decrease.

The engine is overheating.
If the engine is smoking and overheating, the thermostat may be stuck closed. A thermostat that is stuck in the closed position will not allow the coolant to flow adequately. In severe cases, the engine can overheat in less than 15 minutes.

There's a noticeable difference in drivability and handling.
A faulty thermostat will not be able to maintain the appropriate temperature for a vehicle to function effectively. Your engine will struggle to power the car. These problems result in a domino effect that impacts other aspects of your vehicle, such as fuel economy. You'll find yourself spending a bit more than usual to keep your gas tank full.

If there's a problem with the thermostat, the check engine light may not always come on. It's essential to be vigilant to any potential signs that your vehicle needs to be serviced. Consistent overheating can cause long term engine damage that'll hurt your wallet. A thermostat replacement is simple and easy to fix; long term engine damage isn't.

Thermostat replacement in Honolulu, HI

Some drivers like to treat replacing the thermostat as a DIY project. If you don't have the time nor patience to replace it, we have the automotive experts to assist you. Thermostat replacement is a straightforward service, and we have five convenient locations you can drop your vehicle. If you fail to replace it when it's starting to fail, your car may overheat and impact drivability and safety. A thermostat replacement at LexBrodies also allows us to inspect your vehicle and ensure nothing else is going on. When you need automotive maintenance, you can trust, our ASE certified technicians are available to serve you.

Click here to schedule an appointment.

Key Items for Your DIY Vehicle Emergency Kit

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 05:20:00 GMT

It's late, and you're on your way home. The last thing you need is your battery dying or the tire going flat. Are you prepared for those circumstances if they happen? If you have roadside assistance, they may be your saving grace. While this option is reliable, emergencies can happen. Your cell phone battery can die, there may not be a dedicated phone signal, or assistance can be several hours delayed. An emergency kit stowed away in the trunk is a smart move to stay prepared for the unexpected. Below are a few suggestions on the best items to pack or include in your vehicle's emergency kit.

Portable battery charger

If you're stranded several miles out away from the city, there may not be many other drivers nearby who can give you a jump. A dead battery can be resolved quickly with a portable charger because you won't need a second vehicle.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit will include Band-Aids, gauze, disposal gloves, adhesive tape, tweezers, medication, etc. These items can come in handy if you're off-road, far from a convenience store. You'll also have supplies available if you or one of your passengers sustained a minor injury.

Fire Extinguisher

The engine has fast-moving metal parts that can generate extreme heat. While vehicle fires are not common, they are a possibility. With hot metal parts, gasoline, and massive electrical wiring, overheating can happen, and fires can occur. A fire extinguisher can extinguish both types of fires and can potentially save a life.

Escape tool

An escape tool will have a metal piece attached to it that can break a car window if you're ever trapped inside your vehicle. Some escape tools may even have an attached seat belt cutter. The seat belt cutter can help you remove the belt quickly if you become trapped. The escape tool can be stored in the glove compartment.

Reflective Triangles

If you're pulled over on the side of the road, reflective triangles can communicate to other drivers that there is an emergency up ahead. Most drivers who see the reflective triangles will use caution if they approach your location instead of flying by recklessly. Reflective triangles are usually small and easy to pack inside an emergency kit.

The above is not a completely comprehensive list. The emergency kit can include an extra phone charger, small blanket, flashlight, and meals-ready-to-eat for long road trips. Only a few packed essential items are needed to ease a difficult situation. Staying prepared is the first step in responsible driving, and an emergency kit keeps the necessities during the worst-case scenario.

“My Car Won’t Start”

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 08:25:00 GMT

The Battery Died
One of the most common reasons an engine won't turn over is because the battery is dead. The battery provides electrical power not only to the electrical components but to the entire car. Driving allows your battery to charge sufficiently. If you've been self-isolating and haven't used your vehicle in a while, the lack of use could be the issue. Batteries are meant to last several years, but if you have left your headlights on or have any loose wires, it's time to consider a replacement.

The Fuel Filter is Clogged
The fuel filters are essential because it prevents pollutants from entering the gas. Over time the filter will become dirty and need to be changed. If you neglect to swap the fuel filter, an adequate amount of gasoline will not reach the engine. Fuel filters should be regularly changed once a year, at the very least depending on your driving habits. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for recommendations for your specific vehicle model.

Faulty Ignition Switch
If you aren't sure whether the battery or the ignition switch is the culprit, try turning on your headlights. If your headlights come on, but your vehicle doesn't start, you may have a faulty ignition switch. The battery supplies the electricity for your headlights; if the headlights are working, the battery should be working.

The Starter is Broken
Sometimes the issue isn't always associated with the ignition switch; in some cases, the start could be broken. The starter puts significant engine components such as the crankshaft and pistons into motion. If the starter isn't working, the engine will struggle to crank on or won't crank on at all. If you keep trying to start your car only to notice low clicking, the starter may need to be inspected.

If your vehicle isn't starting and you need some assistance, reach out to LexBrodies in Honolulu, Hi, to properly inspect and diagnose your vehicle. Are you crunched on time? Give one of our five locations for a call for assistance, or click here to schedule an appointment with our next available expert ASE Certified technician nearest you.

Signs It’s Time for A Wheel Alignment

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 22:25:00 GMT

Wheel alignments are essential. There are not too many other vehicle maintenance services that extend tire life and improve handling and gas mileage. Long road trips are not the only way wheels can become misaligned. Bumpy roads, potholes, and uneven driving surfaces on the shortest drives can leave your wheels needing an alignment. Wheel alignments alter a vehicle’s suspension to correct the angles of the tires. Lex Brodie’s in Honolulu, HI, uses state of the art machinery to determine the proper angles at which your wheels should be placed. Driving with tires in an inadequate alignment takes away car balance, making the drive dangerous. If you pay special attention to your vehicle, warning signs will indicate that your car needs a wheel alignment.

The Steering Wheel is Vibrating.
A steering wheel that is shaky and vibrating is a big indicator that the wheels may be out of alignment. The worse the shaking is, the sooner you should seek help. A vibrating steering wheel is an indication that the wheels may be so misaligned that they’re pulling in different directions.

You Notice a Pulling Sensation.
When you’re driving on a smooth, straight road, does the car veer off to the right or left? One of the most obvious signs that there is a problem with the wheel alignment is the vehicle pulling to one side while driving. If you’re going on a straight road, the car should drive straight. If you have to correct the steering constantly, it may be time for an alignment.

The Steering Wheel Feels Loose.
The steering wheel should feel direct and turn smoothly. If you find yourself turning the steering wheel with little to no tire movement, you may need to schedule an alignment.

The Tires Wear Unevenly.
If the tires are out of alignment, the tire tread will be worn unevenly. Check the tread by measuring the depth of a few areas on the tire. If there isn’t a problem with alignment, the wear rate should be even. If you notice any uneven wear, it’s best to come in for a service to have it addressed.

The Steering Wheel is Off-center.
If you begin to notice the steering wheel is at an odd angle while driving straight, the wheels’ angle may be skewed. The steering wheel should never be off-center and should remain in a straight position. A four-wheel alignment would be able to fix this.

Tire maintenance and wheel alignments are vital to prevent unnecessary tire wear. Wheel alignments help maintain car balance. If the alignment is neglected, steering and suspension can be significantly impacted. Issues with steering and suspension increase drivers’ likelihood of losing control of their vehicles during an accident. When was the last time your vehicle’s wheels were aligned? If you need top-notch wheel alignment services in Honolulu, Hi, you can count on the experts at LexBrodies.

Your Vehicle's Gas Can Become Stale

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 03:34:00 GMT

Many drivers are abandoning their vehicles for the safety of their homes. It’s safer to work from home, do grocery pick-up, and fill your recreational time with activities that allow you to stay 6 feet apart. According to Inrix.com , a major traffic analytics company based in Washington, road travel was down by 38% during March’s last week. Cars are sitting around, not being driven. If your vehicle isn’t being driven, the gas inside your fuel tank can become stale and start to degrade.

That leaves us wondering - why exactly does gas become stale? According to Greg Brannon, the Director of automotive engineering and industry relations for AAA, gasoline is a living chemical. Thus, with time, air, and condensation, it can break down and decompose. The lighter, volatile aspects of gas can evaporate, leaving the gas gummy in extreme cases. Gas can start to go bad after sitting for around three months. This gives room for alarm because if you were already a low mileage driver before the pandemic, that three-month time span might come quicker than expected if you aren’t regularly using your vehicle.

Fuel breakdown is dangerous for your vehicle. If you have old gasoline in your fuel tank, it can decrease engine power. A decrease in engine power will lead to your vehicle stalling and hesitating. In the worst-case scenarios, your vehicle may not start altogether. The best ways to prevent this from occurring is to add fuel stabilizer and keep your fuel tank full. Keeping a full tank of gas prevents oxygen from getting inside. The less oxygen, the less likely the gasoline’s necessary volatile chemicals evaporate. Adding a Fuel stabilizer is a great way to prevent the gas from degrading over time as well. It doesn’t fix gas that’s already stale, but it can prevent the gas from deteriorating any further than it already has.

Jaywalking Into History

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 04:22:00 GMT

If you’re walking and notice your destination is directly across the street from you, but there’s no intersection, what do you do? You may consider just crossing the street. Depending on where you live, this occurrence happens more often than not. “Jaywalking” is a term that describes someone who crosses a road at a point where there isn’t a designated crosswalk. This is still an excellent term to describe that phenomenon; however, “jaywalking” has a more colorful history than you might expect. What is the history behind the word jaywalking?

Jaywalking has to do with pedestrian safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations show that a considerable amount of pedestrian deaths occurs due to jaywalking each year. The term jaywalking originates from the early 20th century from the colloquial word “jay.” Jay refers to a silly or goofy person and carries a history of holding a derogatory meaning. Before the automobile became popular, most people felt entitled to walk anywhere on the road. With the boom of the automotive industry and the manufacturing of cars, the road rules began to change. The term jaywalking became a popular way to describe rude street walking manners, rather than a legal description. As more cars were driven, crosswalks were built around 1911. By 1930, new jaywalking laws spread like wildfire.

Laws for pedestrians regarding jaywalking vary from state to state. In some states like Michigan, the law is created by each individual city. Some states have laws against distracted walking, a term used to describe pedestrians who aren’t watching where they are walking. This usually can occur if they’re simultaneously walking and using their cellphone. In contrast, other states have stipulations depending on whether the pedestrian was in a controlled or uncontrolled crosswalk. The difference between the two is whether there is an actual crosswalk with markings or not. All in all, whether a state has specific laws against jaywalking or not, make it a regular practice to give a pedestrian the right-of-way rather than take it. Even if there are particular laws for jaywalking, if a pedestrian gets hit by your vehicle, you may end up in the wrong regardless.

Jaywalking still frustrates drivers to this day, and some cities may need to do a better job at identifying major locations without intersections or crosswalks for pedestrians. Most states have laws for jaywalking, but it’s always best to check your city’s specific regulations if you plan to cross an open road. While in some states you can get ticketed for jaywalking, drivers are always required to give pedestrians the right away.

How to read in between the street lines

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 01:20:00 GMT

While lines along the road are a regular occurrence for most drivers, they can indicate different rules. The white lines on the road can be solid, doubled, or broken, leading to confusion. Below is a description of the different types of white lines that can be found on the road and what they mean.

Solid white line:
These lines usually indicate where the road’s shoulder begins. They indicate areas where lane changes are discouraged because they may present a higher accident risk.

Solid double line:
These lines are very different from one solid white line and are usually separated by a few inches. A solid double line indicates that it’s illegal to cross them to change lanes or at any time.

Broken white line:
A broken white line usually indicates an area where it’s considered reasonably safe to change lanes.

Dashed white lines:
A dashed white line may look similar to the broken white line, but the dashes are closer together. The dashes indicate that a lane will either be ending soon or change use. An example of changing use is exit-only lanes or lanes that switch from general usage to carpool.

Do not let the road lines confuse you. By learning the meaning of the road lines, you are better prepared and more equipped with safe driving practices. If there are white road lines that aren’t mentioned here that you still have questions about, contact your local DMV for a book of driving rules and regulations.

Money Saving Fuel Tips for Summer Driving

Fri, 29 May 2020 18:14:00 GMT

We hope that these fuel saving tips will help keep some cash in your pocket this summer. If you do find that your vehicle needs a maintenance item or a repair, you know that you can always call on the experts here at LexBrodies to help. Stay safe and have fun!

Why is Vehicle Maintenance So Important?

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 17:49:00 GMT

When it comes to owning a vehicle, the single most important thing that you can do is take care of your vehicle. Think about how much money you have spent on your car - most likely tens of thousands of dollars. Now, imagine blowing off a service because you don’t really think you need it, although it won’t cost you much and it actually will protect vital car components and extend the lifespan of your vehicle. Seems silly, right? Well, the truth is, a recent survey by the Car Care Council found that 89% of vehicles in use were in need of at least one service or repair.

We understand that as a car owner, it can be difficult to bring your vehicle into a shop and trust that what the mechanics recommend is necessary to the overall integrity of your vehicle, and not just a way to get more money out of you. That is why it is so important to find an auto repair shop that you can actually trust and that will be 100% transparent with you. When you find a good auto repair shop, you’ll realize that recommended services are actually important, and help you save thousands on major repairs that can occur with poor vehicle maintenance.

Car Maintenance items to check frequently include:

Car Maintenance items to check every 3 Months/3,000 Miles include:

These two lists are just a guide for maintenance items that should be checked regularly to keep your vehicle performing in top shape. For all of your automotive needs, don’t hesitate to give us a call today here at LexBrodies or request an appointment online!

Take Care of Your Overdue Car Needs While Social Distancing

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 17:44:00 GMT

Here at LexBrodies, we understand the worry and uncertainty surrounding the current unprecedented times. The COVID-19 outbreak has continued to spread rapidly, and Hawaii residents have been order to stay at home when possible and to practice social distancing. This is all apart of an effort to stop the spread of the virus and minimize the amount of people who will required medical attention.

If you're working from home or your place of work is temporarily closed, now is a great time to take care of any overdue car services you've been meaning to get done but haven't had time for. LexBrodies is open and ready to serve you. We have made several adjustments to our service to abide by the CDC's regulations and recommendations to stop the spread of the virus and to keep our customers and staff members safe.

If your vehicle is due for an oil change, wheel alignment, brake service, or any other maintenance item or repair, give us a call today. We will get your services done safely and we have made our process so much more convenient for you. Here are some of the ways that we have adjusted to the COVID-19 outbreak to continue serving you:

Of course, if you are feeling ill, coughing, or sneezing, we do ask that you reschedule any appointments and avoid visiting our shop to ensure the safety and health of others.

Give us a call today for any assistance with your vehicle. We wish you health and safety!

Why is My Car Overheating?

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 20:28:00 GMT

Your vehicle should work smoothly without having to deal with major issues occurring such as overheating while on the road. If you do find that your vehicle's temperature gauge is running high or that your engine is overheating and shutting down your car, this is a major cause for concern.

An engine overheating usually points to one thing - there is an issue with your vehicle's cooling system. The cooling system has the important job of circulating coolant and keeping your engine parts lubricate to protect them from overheating and regulating overall operation temperature. When your engine overheats, corrosion and damage can quickly occur, which can lead to you needing engine repairs.

Here are some of the most common causes of vehicle overheating:

This is why it is so important for you to bring your vehicle into LexBrodies as soon as you notice that your vehicle is overheating. The sooner you address the issue, the less damage you will cause to your engine. You definitely don't want to deal with engine repairs - trust us. Give us a call or stop by our shop today for service!

General Maintanence

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:11:00 GMT

Inspect your brakes

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:11:00 GMT

The braking system on your car is one of the most important safety features on your vehicle and needs to be closely monitored. Properly maintaining your brakes will help keep your vehicle handling safely and can help prevent unexpected and escalating repair expense. It is important to realize that Hawaii’s driving, conditions are extremely hard on brakes. The traffic, hills, humidity, and the way you drive, all play a role on how long your brakes will last.

Have your brakes checked each time you rotate your tires, It is recommended that you do this in 6-8000 mile intervals. The tires will be off the vehicle so it’s the perfect time to check for brake wear. Doing so will keep you aware of the condition of your brakes and allow you to work any upcoming, brake repairs into your budget. It can also prevent worn brakes from going “metal-to-metal” which would likely add additional cost when it comes time to perform the brake repairs.

As well as inspecting your brakes linings, it’s important to check your brake fluid. Brake fluid contains lubricants and corrosion inhibitors. When brake fluid becomes contaminated the brake fluid boiling point is reduced making the fluid less effective in handling the heat generated while braking. When the brake fluid reaches its boiling point it can cause a sudden loss of hydraulic pressure when the brakes are applied. This will give you a low or spongy brake pedal. As brake fluid ages it can accumulate moisture and loose its effectiveness to lubricate and prevent corrosion, which could eventually lead to premature failure of brake parts. This is especially true with vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes. It is recommended by Ray Bestos, for most vehicles, that you flush out your brake fluid every 2 years or every 24,000 miles.

It is important to know the warning signs of possible brake problems. One of the most common problems with brakes are noises like grinding or squeaky. Although your brake noises may be normal it may actually be an indication of a problem. Most vehicles have brake pads that are equipped with wear indicators built onto it. When the brake pads reaches its minimum thickness the wear indicators comes into contact with the rotors creating a high pitch scraping noise alerting he driver that it is time to have the brake pads replaced. A soft or fading pedal is another clear sign of serious brake problems. When the pedal fades, your vehicle should not be driven.Among many possbilities you may have a brake fluid leak or a bad master cylinder. See a brake specialist immediately. It’s recommended to always tow a vehicle with suspect brakes.

Brake pulsation or vibrition is becoming, a common problem. With Hawaii’s warm climate, our heavy “stop and go” traffic, and mixing in our hills and mountains; brakc systems in Hawaii’s stressful driving conditions generate a tremendous amount of heat. When the brake rotor (the round disk that spins with your wheel that is squeezed against with the brake pads while the brake pedal is applied) is exposed to excessive heat it can warp, generating a pulsation or vibration whenever the brakes are applied. Once a rotor has warped, as a result of wear or stressful driving condition, it is frequently a wise choice to replace the rotor versus resurfacing and reusing the rotor. Resurfacing a rotor that is not worn out will usually solve the pulsation problem, but if the driving conditions remain the same, the rotor will commonly warp back out and the pulsation will return. When you resurface the rotor, you make it thinner which decreases the rotors ability to handle heat.

The brake warning lights should never be ignored. The red brake light may be an indication of low brake fluid, a loss of hydraulic pressure, or that the parking brake is applied. If the light should come on, make sure that the parking brake is released, then check the brake fluid. Low brake fluid may be an indication of a leak. The amber ABS light generally means that the vehicles computer detected a problem with the ABS system and is shutting it down. In most cases your normal brake function is still the same but the antilock feature has been disabled. Remember, when ever the red brake light comes on, you may have a serious problem and the vehicle may not be safe to drive.

When it is time to repair your brakes, keep in mind you usually have options for your repairs. You should always do a thorough brake job. Cheap brake jobs can lead to future brake failure, safety issues, and pure headaches leading to additional cost. You can perform “brake relines” or “brake overhauls”. There is an appropriate time for each option. In some cases a brake overhaul will be recommended as a PM (preventative maintenance) option, which means the overhaul is recommended to greatly reduce the potential for future brake problems. Overhauls return your braking, system very close to the effectiveness of the brakes you had when your vehicle was new. The overhaul will cost more but, in most cases, your brakes will last much longer and you’ll have the peace of mind of a longer warranty with a much lower chance of complications. When doing a brake reline, you could be reusing parts that are very close to failing but have no warning signs at that time.

Always make sure your repair shop gives you your options so you can make the best choice for yourself. It is always a good idea to have your technician show you your brakes and have them give a quick “show and tell” so you can clearly understand what’s being recommended.

Remember you get what you pay for.

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Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:08:00 GMT

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Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:08:00 GMT

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Winterize your vehicle in hawaii

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:08:00 GMT

As winter approaches, those (on the mainland) who expect harmless little white flakes to fall from the sky, rush to winterize their cars. Those harmless little white flakes quickly gang up and wreak havoc on unprepared motorists! The roads become extremely slick and dangerous, snow and ice can even engulf their entire vehicle when they slide off the road! Snow chains, anti-freeze, ice picks, car heaters, snow tires and shovels become a few of the new automotive products they need to purchase.

Thank goodness we don’t have to fight with Jack Frost! We are even happy we don’t see Frosty! Don’t visit us… we’ll visit you Mr. Frosty!

But! We do have our own little Hawaiian Snow, RAIN! We love the water in Hawaii. We surf it, sail on it, swim in it, drink it…heck, we just like to sit and watch it sometimes. Hawaii drivers are legendary when it pertains to how well we deal with wet roads. Our driver’s like to react in extremes when it rains. We either slow down to a crawl or ignore the rain altogether and drive like we are Mad Max plowing through the Thunderdome!

Well, there actually IS a winterizing process you can perform to increase your driving safety as we enter our Hawaiian rainy season. Safe driving is commonly a marriage between vehicle safety and the driver’s mental preparation.

When it comes to your vehicle, the greatest concern to driving safely in the rain, is your tires. Most tires start out with 10 to 14/32nds of tread depth (treads are the blocks of rubber that contact the road). Normally, tire manufacturers’ design the tread patterns to perform well in both wet and dry conditions. Some tires are specialized for one or the other, but most tires on today’s roads are a happy medium. The contact patch of the tire (the part of the tire that contacts the road) is what gives you traction. The grooves, channels, and sipes in the contact patch are the pathways to push water out of the way.

The major concern, while driving in wet weather, is hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when the contact patch of the tire starts to surf… sorry, starts to lift away from the road. This happens when the water pushed into the contact patch flows quicker then the water pushed out of the contact patch. Essentially, a layer of water creates a barrier between the road and your tires. If your tires hydroplane you can lose control of your vehicle. If you ever experience hydroplaning, activate your hazard lights, avoid braking or accelerating while gripping the steering wheel filmy, steering where you want to go while checking your rear view mirror. Soon your tires should return in contact with the road and with skill and luck, you will have avoided an accident.

But, let’s not go there. To prevent hydroplaning; practice proper tire maintenance and while learning how to drive to avoid hydroplaning.

Reducing your speed, when it’s raining, is key to prevent hydroplaning. This usually isn’t a problem in Hawaii with our rush hour traffic but, if you find yourself on open roads while it’s raining, you should slow down.

Follow the 3 second rule when driving, especially in the rain. If you are following another vehicle; watch when it passes a land mark, then count 1001, 1002, 1003. . . If you reached the land mark before the count of 1003, you are trailing too close and you need to slow down. When driving down hill, an even bigger gap is recommended.

Maintaining proper air pressure helps prevent hydroplaning. A tire with low air pressure will not be able to hold its contact patch to the road as designed. Tires that are under inflated will hydroplane about 10mph earlier then if they were properly inflated. Most automotive tires start to hydroplane around 42 mph.

Inspect your tires! Tires that are worn near the minimum tread depth of 2/32nds will not be able to push water away from the tires very well. You should not wait until the tires get down to 2/32nds. If you do you, are increasing your risk of hydroplaning.

If there is a tread depth difference of 2/32nds or more, you should rotate the better tires to the rear. It is always preferred that the tires on the same axle are the same age and wear. If you have the more worn tires on the rear, then they can hydroplane before the front tire which can allow the rear to swing around – out of control!

Tire rotation can be a catch 22. Tire manufacturers recommend rotating their tires to maintain their tire mileage warranties and to help your tires wear in a smooth and even pattern. (Front tires normally wear much quicker then the rear tires.) But, if you go to rotate your tires and your front tires are worn 3/32nd more than the rear . . . it’s recommended by tire manufacturers, that you leave the better tires on the rear! Thus you wouldn’t rotate your tires except for going left to right (this is not possible with directional tires). But, this will void your tires mileage warranty. So, what to do?

Tire manufacturers stress keeping the better tires in the rear. We recommend that this should always be the goal, but you (the tires owner) need to make the decision about your course of action. We will still recommend rotating tires with in 2/32nds to 3/32nds tread varience front to back, during the dry season, to help insure the most even wear among your 4 tires. There is no law that says the deeper tread tires must go in the back. It’s your decision.

Lex Brodie’s Tire Company recommends that the better tires should go to the rear of your vehicle during our rainy season, regardless of warranty concerns . . . safety first! Then if you choose, you can rotate your tires during our relatively drier driving seasons to extend you tires mileage and wear.

Please leave surfing as an ocean sport... proper maintenance and smart driving will help keep your feet (tires) on the ground. Your other major winterization concerns in Hawaii are your wiper blades and your battery.

Cleaning your windows and replacing your old wiper blades can make a huge difference on your visibility while driving. We recommend replacing the wiper arm and blade assembly as one. It runs a little more but; but they are easier to replace and normally work better and look better. You can expect to pay $8 to $15, on average, for each new windshield wipers arm installed.

Engine batteries don’t hold up well in constant heat. And when there is a noticeable climate change, engine batteries commonly act up. It’s always a good idea to have your battery inspected once it reaches 2 years of age. Battery and full charge system inspections can run $25.00.

Drive safe and with aloha!

Strut your stuff

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:05:00 GMT

Most motorist are practically unaware what shocks and struts do, or are unaware that they even have them on their vehicle. The fact is that without shocks and/or struts, our vehicles would be dangerous and almost impossible to drive. The shocks and/or struts on your vehicle are very vital toward your vehicles performance, comfort, and safety.

The primary duties of the shock or strut is to dampen the spring movement in your suspension and keep your tires in contact with the surface of the road. If you took all the shocks off a vehicle (on a vehicle with 4 shocks) your car would ride as if you were on a waterbed. After each bump, you vehicle would bounce until gravity stopped the movement. Vehicles equipped with struts would not be capable of moving if the struts were removed.

Your struts and shocks are that important. Worn shocks and struts affect handling, ride, stopping distance while braking, and tire wear.

How long do struts and shocks last and when should I change them?

Since struts and shocks wear out gradually, it normally goes unnoticed that one strut and/or shock has worn out. Quit often, only when the vehicles owner has changed their struts and/or shocks, do they realize how worn their struts and/or shocks were. It’s similar to the gradual, yet significant, change in your eyesight that can occur over time; you might not notice how badly you need a new eyeglass prescription until you take a vision test. We have found that original equipment (O.E.) shocks commonly wear out starting at about 50,000 miles and O.E. struts commonly wear out about 80,000 miles. Please note, struts and shocks can fail at much lower mileages and may even remain functional at much higher mileages.

There are distinguishing differences between your choices for replacement struts and shocks. After-market manufacturers of ride control products (shocks and struts) have developed products that address both handling and ride issues. Shocks and struts that are stiffer will allow the vehicle to handle better through turns and braking but will ride more harshly. Vehicles that have softer shocks and struts will give a smoother ride but may allow the vehicle to “roll” and “sway” through turns and will also dive when braking. Some manufacturers have produced a variable shock or strut, giving the driver the best of both worlds; a smooth ride when cruising and providing noticeable handling benefits when the vehicle is driven more aggressively.

Severly worn struts or shocks will allow the tire to bounce, or dribble, after hitting a bump. Worn struts and shocks will also allow your vehicle to dip forward during hard breaking, affecting both handling and braking performance. When the tire bounces or dribbles, it does not have full contact with the road and breaking distance is increased and control of the vehicle becomes difficult. The stickiest tires in the world won’t steer or stop a car if it’s in the air. Wet weather driving will also be difficult as the roads become slick from the water on the road. Worn shocks or struts will increase the chances of hydroplaning.

There is no definitive number of miles that will let you know how long your struts or shocks will last. In many cases, you will want to replace them as an Improved Performance, or a Preventative Maintenance, measure. Once your struts or shocks fail, vehicles handling can become scary, and sometimes, dangerous.

We have seen a handful of cases where vehicles (with O.E. struts) handling becomes dangerous due to strut failure on vehicles with mileage over 100,000. As your vehicles shocks or struts near the end of their useful life some things that you will notice are excessive road noise or vehicle bounce—especially over a bumpy road. You may also see unusual tire wear such as “cupping”.

A visual inspection of the strut or shock can only reveal leakage or external damage. Because the strut or shock wears on the inside, the only way to tell if it’s good or bad is a test drive, or symptoms given by the customer’s complaint. Watch to see if the front end dives excessively on sudden braking. A good gauge of your shock or struts condition is when you go over a speed bump. If the front of your vehicle continues to bounce after the front tires has cleared the speed bump then there’s a good chance your strut or shock needs replacement.

Don’t expect your vehicles ride to become smoother when you replace your struts on shocks. Worn struts and shocks actually give you a softer (but not safer) ride. Commonly customers are upset when they replace their struts or shocks and find the ride is more harsh. If you replace your struts or shocks and the ride stays the same, you either replace them too soon or used a product at the lower end of the available technology. When replacing struts, don’t over look the strut mount. The strut mount is the turn plate on the top of the strut that carries the full load of that spring. The strut plate commonly wears out consistently with the struts wear. You should always check your alignment after you replace struts and it’s strongly recommended after shock replacement.

We encourage Preventative Maintenance. As your vehicle nears 80,000-100,000 mile range; and if you plan to hold on to it for a year or more, we recommend O.E. strut and/or shock replacement as a preventative measure, and as an improved performance action.

Shocks are reasonably priced. Struts are much bulkier and replace suspension components that vehicles with shocks have, so they are noticeably pricier and require quit a bit of additional labor to replace. Backyard mechanics can, normally, easily replace their own shocks. But, untrained persons who attempt to change struts actually facelife threatening hazards in attempting such a feat.

If your well maintained vehicle is running up in mileage and you prefer keeping your beloved auto verses buying a new high priced model; strut and shocks replacement is well worth the investment. In a time where car payments frequently run $500 and up, a new car payment dwarfs the expense to keep your trusted vehicle; the one you know and trust so well, on our beautiful roads.

*Labor based on TRIAD, a national standard for replacement labor units.

Improve your tire and gas mileage

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 08:02:00 GMT

by Jerrette Kamaka
MidWeek Freelance Writer

With rollercoaster gas prices setting record highs, many drivers today are looking for ways to get the most out of every gallon of gas. Simple monitoring and tire maintenance can make a huge difference on how many miles to the gallon you get and as well as prolong the life of your tires.

Although today's tires are designed and constructed to last for tens of thousands of miles (some tires reaching 80,000 miles), many won't see half their life because of poor maintenance. In order to stretch your fuel mileage and get the most out of your tires, they must be maintained properly and it all begins with proper tire pressure.

"It's like pushing a loaded wheel barrel," says Scott Williams, General Manager of Lex Brodie's Tire Company. "If the tire on the wheel barrel is low on air, it will be much harder to push requiring more energy to move. But if the tire is properly inflated it will be easier to push, and use less energy. It's similar with a car, keeping the tires inflated to the recommended tire pressure is very important."

Because air expands when it's hot and contracts when it's cold, the best time to check your tires is when they are cold. The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle can be found in your owner's manual or on the door jam of the driver's door. This simple maintenance can improve your vehicle's fuel economy by 10 percent according to the EPA. Williams recommends checking your tire's air pressure & tread wear after every fill-up.

Just as important are rotating, balancing and aligning your tires on a regular basis. Most tire manufactures recommend a tire rotation every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. An out-of-balance wheel can cause tread wear, vibration, and put stress on the front-end, all potentially causing premature wear.

The wheels on your vehicle can be knocked out of alignment during daily impacts such as potholes, roadside curbing, speed bumps, or by normal daily driving. Have your alignment checked at least once per year. Should you notice the following four scenarios, Williams recommends a check-up immediately: any hard impact (accident, large pothole etc), uneven tread patterns, a difference in the handling, or a change in the steering wheel position. If you experience a change in your vehicle's handling such as a vibration while driving, a new noise, or your vehicle feels as if it is "pulling" to one side, it would be best to take it to a reputable repair shop. "A vehicle, when out of alignment, can easily cut your tire mileage in half', says Williams.

Proper maintenance of your vehicle is vital to obtaining optimum fuel economy. Regular oil changes, tune-ups as well as air filter, oxygen sensor replacement and properly performing brakes can increase your fuel economy.

Changing your driving habits can have an effect on your fuel economy. Drivers who stop making jack rabbit starts and stomping on the brake pedal will notice a change immediately.

"At Lex Brodie's, we encourage our customers to be educated about their automobiles," says Williams, "Our goal is to help our customer save time and money, while promoting increased safety. We want our customers to get the longest tire life possible, and help them save money on gas."

I need to do what? - a 4wd tire buying guide

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 07:57:00 GMT

If you have an All Wheel Drive (AWD), part time Four Wheel Drive (4WD) or a Full Time 4WD (FT-4WD) vehicle, you may find yourself saying this when you want to buy less then four tires.

Let’s just say it… if you have an AWD or FT-4WD vehicle, replacing one tire is almost never an option. If you drive a part-time 4WD vehicle it is recommended that you replace your tires in pairs. On AWD and FT-FWD vehicle, you may need to change all four tires (even if only one tire has gone bad). With AWD and FT-4WD vehicles, replacing less than 4 tires can be harmful to your vehicle’s drive-train. This is why many AWD/FT-4WD vehicle manufacturers state that all 4 tires need to be replaced at the same time.

Let’s discuss this. When you bought your AWD/4WD vehicle, you bought a vehicle that is engineered with some of the latest safety and technological features. These features help you keep control of your vehicle even when one or more of your tires lose traction. Your vehicle has a specialized drive-train or drive-line (which contains differentials, a transfer case, specialized gears, and drive shafts), and these components can allow each of your tires to spin at different speeds from each another. Some vehicles can have all four tires spinning at different speeds! This feature helps the tires to keep traction in slick or muddy environments. The specialized drive-line components are only designed to allow momentary differences in wheel rotation speeds when a vehicle turns a corner or temporarily spins a tire. In order for this system to work properly, all the tires must be the same tread pattern, the same tread depth, and from the same tire manufacturer. If the tires have different tread patterns, manufacturers, or tread depths, the differentials (and other related components) will be forced to work 100% of the time -- which they are not designed to do. This will cause excessive heat and unwarranted wear on the drive-line components until they fail.

When replacing tires on AWD and FT-4WD vehicles, the tires must always be the same size, model, and tread design. When replacing less then four tires, the remaining tire life must be measured to see if the remaining tread depths are sufficient for the AWD/FT-4WD system to function properly. Replacing one or three tires is not an option unless you are utilizing a full size spare of the exact size, manufacturer, model, and tread depth of the new tires you plan to install. Otherwise, you’ll need to change 2 or 4. Some vehicles allow for the replacement of two tires if certain criteria is met. For example, some AWD/4WD vehicle manufacturers specify that you can replace 2 tires if the other tires are within 2/32 of an inch from the new tires. This translates to a tread depth within 20% of most new tires. (Most new tires start with 10/32’s of an inch.)

Here are some examples of vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. One owners manual states that the “rolling radius of all 4 tires must remain the same”, or within 4/32-inch of each other in remaining tread depth. Another recommends that tires should be within 30% of each other. And yet another states; on AWD vehicles, all four tires need to be within ¼ inch of tire circumference or about 2/32-inch of each other in remaining tread depth.

The best place to search for tire replacement guidelines is in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Here at Lex Brodie’s we recommend referring to your owner’s manual when replacing tires on your AWD/4WD vehicle. If the manual does not state the proper way to replace tires we will recommend no less than 2 tires (only an option when the remaining tires are with in 2/32nd of the new tires tread depth). This will ensure that the drive-line is undamaged, and also help keep you safe.

We also offer the best value for Brake Repair and New Tires in Oahu!

Please click below to view our Brake Repair and Tire Services.

We Answer Common Car Repair Questions

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 07:53:00 GMT

Aloha! At Lex Brodie’s Tire, Brake & Service Company, we invite your questions. We love talking about cars, car repair, brake repair and tires!!

One question we received recently was from Parker: “Why do my brakes squeak?”

Dear Parker –

There are several reasons brakes can squeak. One minor reason that happens often is wet brakes, or a small amount of rust or dirt on the brakes. Usually this kind of squeak stops after the car dries off, or has been driving for a while.

However, the problem can be serious. If the squeaking continues or if it turns into a more serious sound like a grinding or a squeal, you’re going to want to get that checked. It may be that something important needs immediate attention and you don’t want to take a chance with such an important part of your car!

And remember too, the longer you wait to get your car to a mechanic, the worse the damage can get.

There’s good news! With an appointment, we perform free brake inspections for most passenger and LT vehicles. Please visit lexbrodies.com and set up a free brake inspection on-line! Here is our Brake Service webpage; https://www.lexbrodies.com/brakes .

If we can assist you, please make an appointment!

Simple Answers from Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com: Alignment

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 07:24:00 GMT

Question:

How do I know when I need a wheel alignment?

Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com Answer:
When Honolulu drivers' wheels are properly aligned they all point in the same direction. When they are out of alignment, most HI drivers notice a couple of things. First the vehicle pulls to one side when driving. It could be slight or pretty severe. If your wheels have been out of alignment for a while, you'll also start to see uneven tire wear – the shoulder on either the outside or inside of the tire is worn down more than the other.

A whole bunch of steering and suspension components are joined together. Everyday Honolulu driving can cause Honolulu drivers' wheels to go out of alignment over time just from the joints loosening up. That's why most recommend an alignment check every couple of years. Depending on where you live in HI or the conditions you drive in (off-road driving, harsh Honolulu winter conditions, poor pavement, etc.) – an alignment inspection every year at Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com may be called for.

Suspension and steering components wear over time as well which can lead to and alignment issues for Honolulu drivers. Of course, a big bump like hitting a curb or pothole can knock a wheel out of alignment or damage a steering or suspension part.

Your friendly and knowledgeable Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com service advisor will your tires for uneven wear. The type of wear provides clues for what might be wrong. Undercar parts are inspected for wear and damage. The alignment machine will provide a reading of how each wheel is aligned. The reading is compared with the alignment settings recommended by the , and then the makes the necessary adjustments and repairs to bring your wheels back into alignment.

Now putting off a wheel alignment in Honolulu can get dangerous because of tire wear: a bad alignment can chew through a tire pretty quickly. If you see uneven tire wear, if your steering wheel is off center, or your vehicle pulls to one side ask your friendly and knowledgeable Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com service advisor about getting an alignment check.

Awesome Car Care Videos @ Lexbrodies.com
701 Queen Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
808.949.4539

https://lexbrodiesappointments.com/