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Let’s talk for a moment about the timing belt because it’s one of the most important items you can address in auto repair. In Puyallup, WA at Sea Tac Tire & Auto Tech, we’ve seen the result of broken timing belts, and it wasn’t pretty -- but we’ll get to that in a minute.    Timing Belt vs. Serpentine Belt    The two aren’t interchangeable with each other. The serpentine belt is an external belt that drives the alternator, AC compressor, water pump and other secondary accessorie...

You might think that brake problems are pretty obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many people have no clue there’s something wrong with their brakes! In Puyallup, WA, at Sea Tac Tire & Auto Tech, we get plenty of cars in our shop that have brake problems that have gone way too long and are now pretty expensive to fix. Here are some signs that you’re headed for brake failure:    Screeching, grinding noises -- Keep your ears attuned to any metallic grinding, squealing or screechin...

The days are getting longer and the temperatures are inching upward. Before long, it’s going to be time for vacations and road trips…and it’s going to be downright hot. At Sea Tac Tire & Auto Tech, we’d like to go over a few tips to make sure your vehicle’s ready (and help you avoid costly auto repair): Air conditioning – If your car’s AC system is only working marginally well, it’s worse than uncomfortable; it’s in greater danger of failing altogether in hot weather. Before ...

At Sea Tac Tire & Auto Tech, we know that many drivers in Puyallup, WA find it tough to spend  money for an entire set of four tires. It’s always better to replace the entire set, if possible; that ensures that the tires will wear at an even rate, enhancing braking, handling and overall performance.    However, in a pinch, it’s acceptable to replace two tires.    Here are some rules to remember, though, if you’re replacing a pair of tires in Puyallup, WA:    Replacing two ti...

Off-roading may be a necessity of your lifestyle, or an exciting weekend diversion. In either case, you may already know what it’s like to encounter a situation that your tires are not prepared for. A particularly muddy path, or a snowy and slush-filled road can both prove challenging to a vehicle that is equipped with the wrong type of off road tires. Whether you choose Dunlop tires, or Goodyear tires, here are the two biggest questions that you should ask yourself when considering your opt...

Did you know that almost 175,000 businesses in the U.S. are auto repair companies? The purpose of any auto repair business is to diagnose and fix vehicle problems as quickly and as accurately as possible. Between 2006 and 2016, there is expected to be a 14% jump in the number of auto mechanics. If you are looking for a qualified, trustworthy mechanic, look for places that have Automotive Service Excellence certified employees. When it comes to options for your car repair, there are several th...

Did you know that demand for auto repairs is anticipated to rise almost 10% over the next year? This is probably because the auto industry in general is expected to experience a 3% growth rate as the economy picks up. For better or for worse, more cars means more repairs, and getting your car fixed up is no small task. Here are three tips, though, for maintaining your vehicle through the fair and tough weather.         1. Consider Upgrading Your Tires Did you know that the aver...

No one looks forward to it, but it’s an inevitability that everyone must face at some point in their lives. Everybody needs to buy new tires eventually. It’s no fun. And it’s a tough decision. But it’s one that you have to make. And if you can go into it educated and prepared, you’ll find it that much easier and less stressful. Types of Tires To begin with, do you know what kind of new tires you need? Are you looking for a simple standard pair for your little sedan? Or perhaps you ...

By Garrett McKinnon VehicleMD Staff Writer Originally published in Winter 2011 issue BMWs have them. Mercedes, too. And so do Audis, Volvos, Lexuses (Lexii?), Acuras and others. What are “they,” you might ask? Oil change indicator lights. And they’re not just confined to luxury makes, either. Almost every GM vehicle made since 2004 has come standard with the company’s “Oil Life System,” and companies like Chrysler, Honda, Toyota and others are increasingly putting oil change remind...

By Kara Bishop VehicleMD Staff Writer Originally published in Summer 2012 Issue Have you ever run a marathon (26 miles)? Running requires energy and hydration; therefore, athletes running marathons must supplement their bodies with food and water during the race. Only the most dedicated can make it to the finish line, and I can’t help but be impressed with these runners. However, did you know that your vehicle runs marathons on a daily basis? We drive 13 and 26 miles without even thi...