Third Coast Auto Group Official Blog
Archive for the ‘Tips and Tricks’ Category
Why drive a vehicle under 100,000 miles?
Monday, June 22nd, 2020
Benefits of driving a low mileage pre-owned vehicle
Drivers often find that new vehicles aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. When you need to upgrade your current driving situation to something new, that doesn’t mean you must fork up a ton of money to get one. In fact, you can get a pre-owned vehicle with the same quality as a new vehicle for a much lower price. Take a look at the benefits of driving a low-mileage pre-owned vehicle here on our blog! (more…)
What are the best used cars for driving in Texas?
Tuesday, May 19th, 2020
When choosing a vehicle for use in the Lone Star state, it’s important to take into account the climate as well as the sheer size of the place. That size results in a variety of terrain throughout, much of which is untamed desert. What vehicles are best suited for taking on such an environ?
(more…)Can I switch to synthetic oil?
Wednesday, May 6th, 2020
Safely Changing Your Vehicle from Mineral to Synthetic Oil
“Oh no! I put synthetic oil in my engine and now my car exploded,” are words the average driver does not want to be in a position to utter. As a result, many drivers staunchly swear by using standard mineral oil in their rides, believing that a switch to synthetic could have some detrimental effect (though perhaps not one so dramatic as an explosion). Some have heard that switching from mineral to synthetic oil could cause an unpleasant shock to their vehicle’s system.
Are the fears of these drivers justified? Is it safe to start using synthetic oil in your vehicle if you haven’t done so before?
(more…)How can I support local businesses in Austin during the COVID-19 quarantine period?
Wednesday, April 8th, 2020
Local Business Support Tactics During the Coronavirus in Austin, TX
Local businesses in Austin have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, and it’s not too hard to understand why. Not only is everyone encouraged to stay home, but non-essential businesses and services have been suspended by law. The entire world economy has taken a heavy hit from nearly every angle.
But it’s no use denying the current reality. Instead, we must ask: what are our options? How can one still support local Austin businesses when stay-at-home orders are in effect?
(more…)Is flat-towing illegal in Texas?
Saturday, March 7th, 2020
Texas Flat-Towing Laws and Requirements
Flat-towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular way to take an extra vehicle along on a journey. The method is often performed with an RV by individuals who want to bring their own ride along on their camping journey.
However, each state has different regulations regarding flat-towing, and they should all be followed when one drives through that state. What are the flat-towing laws in Texas? Is the practice even legal?
(more…)What are the best ways to take care of my car?
Wednesday, February 19th, 2020
Car Care and Maintenance FAQs Video Compilation
Wondering what you should know to be a smart car owner? Courtesy of Consumer Reports, we’ve compiled six videos detailing some main points of knowledge to store away in your brain. Check them out below to bring a dose of improvement to your car owning experience.
(more…)Should I check my oil when the engine is hot or cold?
Monday, February 10th, 2020
Ideal Engine Temperature for Oil Check
Oil is a very important part of an automobile, as it lubricates the machinery inside so that everything can stay in healthy motion. In order to ensure your vehicle has enough of this precious slippery juice in its system, it’s a good idea to check one’s oil from time to time. In fact, Consumer Reports recommends doing so at every other fuel-stop.
But different opinions abound on the exact conditions that oil should be checked in. One area that seems “hotly” debated is the ideal engine temperature. Should you check your oil with a hot or cold engine?
(more…)Can you use regular gas in a flex-fuel vehicle?
Thursday, January 30th, 2020
Flex-fuel vehicles, or FFVs, are optimized to be able to run on special ethanol- and methanol-based fuels. But what happens if you put regular gasoline in the tank? Can regular gas be used in a flex-fuel vehice?
(more…)Is crude oil used in cars?
Monday, January 20th, 2020
Crude Vs. Motor Oil
You may hear the word “crude oil” batted around the news from time to time. “Crude oil was spilled here,” or “the prices of crude oil are rising there.” What exactly is crude oil? Is this the same oil that we use in our automobiles?
(more…)How do I attach new windshield wipers?
Wednesday, January 15th, 2020
Windshield Wiper Attachment Instructions
Like headlights, brakes, tires, and many other parts of the automobile, windshield wipers are a necessity that often go taken for granted until they break down. When this sad state of affairs occurs, it’s time to replace your windshield wipers and attach new ones. A service shop can certainly do this for you, but a fair amount of labor costs can be saved by doing it yourself.
How does one replace and attach new windshield wipers on their vehicle?
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