Posted on 2/28/2024
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 autom ... read more
Posted on 1/31/2024
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 ... read more
Posted on 12/5/2023
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 bra ... read more
Posted on 11/29/2023
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 on ... read more
Posted on 10/29/2023
Approaching a busy intersection, you press down on the brake pedal, expecting a smooth and responsive stop. However, instead of a seamless halt, your car shudders and makes an unsettling noise. The reason? Worn-out brake rotors. These often-overlooked components of your car's braking system play a crucial role in ensuring your safety on the road. Understanding the importance of brake rotors and being able to identify the signs that indicate they need replacement is vital, so let's take a deeper look into that. Brake Rotors Explained Brake rotors, also known as brake discs, are the round, flat metal components that work in conjunction with the brake pads to slow or stop the rotation of the wheels. When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads clamp down on the rotors, creating the friction necessary to decelerate the vehicle. This ... read more
Posted on 9/29/2023
When you think about factors that can affect your vehicle's performance and longevity, humidity might not be the first thing that comes to mind. We often focus on the more apparent culprits like extreme temperatures or road conditions. However, the truth is that humidity can quietly influence your car's well-being in ways you might not have considered. The Science Behind Humidity and Your Car Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how humidity impacts your vehicle, let's understand the basics. Humidity is essentially the amount of moisture present in the air. It's measured as a percentage, with 100% humidity indicating that the air is holding as much moisture as it possibly can. Now, how does this relate to your car? Well, humidity can affect various components of your vehicle, starting with the exterior. The Vehicle's Exterior - Rust and Paint Damage High humidity levels can accelerate rust formation on your car's metal su ... read more
Posted on 8/31/2023
When you look at a set of Goodyear or Falken tires, you just know that they perform well. But why is that what makes good tires... good? This question can go one of two ways, a scientific breakdown of the construction and materials of the wheel, and a simpler explanation of the factors that contribute to it. If you are here you probably want the latter one, so keep on reading! 1. Traction and Grip Traction is the tire's ability to grip the road surface, ensuring that your vehicle maintains control even in challenging conditions. This factor is influenced by the tire's tread pattern, depth, and compound. A good set of tires will have a well-designed tread pattern that efficiently channels water, slush, and debris away from the contact patch, thereby reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining a grip on wet roads. 2. Durability and Longevity Long-lasting tires save you money and provide peace of mind. Tire durability depends on the qual ... read more
Posted on 7/31/2023
When it comes to the engine's internal components, various belts and chains play critical roles in ensuring proper operation and synchronization. Among these are the timing belt, auxiliary belt, and timing chain. Understanding the distinctions between these components is essential for maintaining your vehicle's engine health and performance. In this blog, we will delve into the differences between timing belts, auxiliary belts, and timing chains, shedding light on their functions, locations, maintenance requirements, and potential consequences of neglect.Timing BeltThe timing belt, also known as a camshaft belt, is a toothed rubber belt that connects the engine's crankshaft to the camshaft(s). Its primary purpose is to synchronize the opening and closing of the engine's valves with the rotation of the crankshaft. This synchronization is crucial for precise combustion and efficient engine operation. The timing belt is typic ... read more
Posted on 6/30/2023
With summer officially starting, it's time to prepare your car for the hot weather and those exciting road trips. The scorching sun and long journeys can put additional strain on your vehicle, making maintenance crucial. With this blog, you will be more than ready for summer and all the challenges it poses to your vehicle, so make sure to read carefully! #1 Check and Top Up Fluid Levels Hot weather can accelerate fluid consumption in your car. Before setting off on your summer adventures, check and top up essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Adequate lubrication and cooling are vital to keep your engine running smoothly and prevent overheating, especially on long drives. #2 Inspect and Maintain the Cooling System Your car's cooling system plays a vital role in preventing engine overheating. Ensure that the radiator, coolant hoses, and water pump are in good condition. Clean any debris or dirt accumulate ... read more
Posted on 5/31/2023
Hawaii, heaven on earth is the most simple way to describe it. Despite it being a small state, it has quite a lot to offer, as you will shortly see below. Here are our picks for seven of the best locations to visit while you are on a road trip or vacation in Hawaii:7. The Road to Hana, Maui Embark on a journey along the famous Road to Hana, a picturesque drive filled with cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and lush rainforests. This winding coastal road will lead you to hidden gems such as the stunning Wailua Falls and the enchanting Bamboo Forest. Take your time to explore the scenic viewpoints and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Maui. 6. Waimea Canyon, Kauai Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon offers awe-inspiring vistas and vibrant red and green hues. Drive along the scenic Waimea Canyon Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Puu Hinahina Lookout for panoramic views of the canyon ... read more