What types of maintenance should be done during long car trips?

Before taking your vehicle on a long road trip, schedule a “health check up” with us.  As a general practice, the health check up will inspect the oil change interval, the timing belt replacement schedule, all fluids, belts and hoses, Read More

What should you do when your temp gauge begins to rise and you are in traffic?

If you are in traffic and your temperature gauge begins to rise, shut off power-using systems such as the air conditioning.   Next, turn on the heater and fan to the hottest/highest setting.  The heater unit will act as a small Read More

How do you clean dirty battery terminals?

Battery terminals can only be successfully cleaned by removing the cables. Multiple tools are available designed to clean the terminals and cable ends once separated. Smokey’s Auto Repair offers this service free of charge.

Can spark plugs really go 100,000 miles before being changed?

Improvement in spark plug technology does allow for some styles of plugs to function properly for 100,000 miles.  Check with your mechanic to verify the correct spark plugs and expected mileage before requiring replacement.

How do you know how much air to put in tires?

Tire pressures are normally listed on the tire label found inside the driver’s door on most vehicles or the owner’s manual.  Tire and auto manufacturers also have suggested tire pressures available on-line.

Ask the Automotive Expert-Sevier County Car Talk Experts

Please visit our Automotive FAQs for anwers to questions you may have about your automobile. We hope to offer sound advise as to how we can best service your vehicle.  Your safety is important to us!        Do Read More

Will it damage my engine if I continue to drive my car when the check engine light is on?

The check engine light indicates a malfunction of one of many monitored systems on a vehicle.  Damage to the engine can occur during normal operation if the warning is for a major malfunction.  To minimize repair costs, have the check Read More

Why are my brakes making noise?

Brake manufacturers install wear warning indicators on disc brake pads.  The result is a “squeal” while braking or driving the indicates replacement is necessary; Contact Us or Request to Schedule Service today by completing our service request form or by Read More

How often do I need to check the anti-freeze? Does it need to be changed?

Antifreeze should be checked and filled if necessary once before summer and once before winter.  Depending on the type of vehicle, antifreeze should be changed between 60,000 and 120,000 miles and again at manufacturer suggested intervals; Contact Us or Request Read More

How can you tell what size replacement tire is best?

Tire size replacement can best be determined by the manufacturer’s label inside the door of the vehicle.  If the label is missing, tire manufacturers make size recommendations and any suggested changes available; Contact Us or Request to Schedule Service today Read More