Raleigh Auto Repair

The Toyota Corolla has earned a reputation for reliability and longevity, but even the most dependable vehicles require maintenance from time to time. One of the most common maintenance tasks you can perform yourself is changing the car battery. Luckily for you, this is today's exact topic - here is how to change a battery in a Toyota Corolla from 2012 or newer (11th and 12th generation). Tools and Materials You'll Need: New car battery (make sure it's the correct size and type for your Corolla) Socket wrench set Combination wrench set Safety goggles and gloves Battery terminal cleaner or baking soda Wire brush Corrosion-resistant grease or terminal protector spray Battery terminal brush or cable cleaner tool Battery hold-down clamp (if necessary) Safety stands or a jack (if needed) Step 1: Safety First! Before you begin, ensure your Corolla is parked in a s ... read more

In the realm of automotive enthusiasts, discussions about a vehicle's specifications often revolve around horsepower, top speed, and acceleration. Yet, there's another crucial figure that commands equal attention: torque. While it may not have the same cinematic allure as horsepower, the torque number in vehicle specifications holds the key to unlocking a world of power, performance, and precision. What is Torque, Anyway? To comprehend the significance of torque, we must first grasp its fundamental definition. In the simplest terms, torque is the rotational force generated by an engine, measured in pound-feet (lb-ft) or Newton-meters (Nm). Unlike horsepower, which relates to an engine's ability to do work over time, torque is all about raw, immediate twisting force. It's what propels you off the line when you stomp on the accelerator pedal and keeps you glued to the seat during a spirited drive. Torque vs. Horsepower - The Dynamic Duo ... read more

Tires are the unsung heroes of the road, carrying us to our destinations safely and reliably. But what if we told you that there are some peculiar things and habits out there that can prematurely age and wear out your tires?  1. Improper Alignment Your car's wheels should be aligned in a specific way to ensure even tire wear. When they're out of alignment, your tires can wear unevenly, causing one side of the tire to wear faster than the other. This can happen due to potholes, curb bumps, or even minor accidents. Regular alignment checks can prevent this. 2. Overloading Your Vehicle We've all been tempted to cram our cars with heavy cargo, but overloading can put excessive pressure on your tires. This can lead to excessive wear and even tire blowouts. Be mindful of your vehicle's weight limits and distribute cargo evenly. 3. Aggressive Driving Habits Zooming around corners and slamming on the brakes not only ... read more

A slight leak somewhere on your car can go unnoticed for quite some time, and most of the time, if it's not too serious. There is an exception - when there is a whole puddle under your vehicle or, in the worst case, more than one. This blog will uncover the reasons and the different types of fluid spills your car might have. 1. Clear and Odorless If you spot a clear and odorless puddle, especially after running your car's air conditioning system, don't worry. This is likely just condensation from the A/C evaporator, which is a normal occurrence and nothing to be concerned about. Important: If your car's cooling system runs only on water, make sure to have it inspected for leaks because it might be leaking the aforementioned water. 2. Green or Light Green A green or light green puddle is typically caused by a leak in your car's cooling system, often due to a damaged or worn-out radiator or a leaking coolant hose ... read more

Maintaining proper wheel alignment is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of your vehicle's suspension system. When wheels are misaligned, it can have a detrimental impact on various suspension components. Here is an explanation of why this occurs and the main reasons: Main Reasons: Uneven tire wear Increased stress on suspension components The strain on ball joints and bearings Impact on shock absorbers and struts Altered handling and stability One of the primary consequences of bad wheel alignment is uneven tire wear. When the wheels are not properly aligned, it causes uneven distribution of weight and forces on the tires. As a result, certain areas of the tire tread experience more friction and wear than others. Over time, this uneven wear leads to premature tire degradation, reducing tire life and necessitating premature replacement. Misaligned wheels place additional stress on various suspension c ... read more