Rockland & Rockport Auto Repair

The power steering system relies on several mechanical parts. Power steering systems function to provide easier manoeuvrability and a better degree of control over the vehicle, making driving all the more effort-free. It is sometimes referred to as the steering assist system or SAS. Without it, steering would be physically strenuous and challenging to perform. Power steering systems can either be hydraulic, electric or a combination of the two. Steering a vehicle involves getting its front wheels to turn synchronously, either to the left or right. This is achieved with the help of different gear systems. The two main steering gear systems are the rack and pinion and the recirculating ball steering gear.   The power steering system uses intermediate electric or hydraulic devices to reduce the effort necessary to steer the front wheels of the vehicle side to side. It multiplies the force applied by the driver through the steering wheel to achieve a smooth and quick directional chang ... read more

It has happened to most of us. We're on our way to school or work, and we hear that dreaded sound of a flat tire or a blowout. Some sort of debris in the road has left you with a damaged tire and an immobile vehicle. This situation always brings on frustration. Now you must deal with getting your car to a tire repair shop. The tire has to be properly assessed to perform the necessary repair or replacement service. Depending on where the puncture is located and the severity of the damage, the tire will either only need a simple repair or be replaced.   Tires are crucial to the safe performance of our vehicles. For the continued safety of your car, mechanics must utilize the best possible way to fix your tire. The availability of options leads to some debate over what is the "best" way to fix a tire and keep your vehicle safe. Is a plug repair sufficient, or do I need to replace the tire? Here are some considerations to determine which tire repair method is the best op ... read more

Determining your tire age is very important for your driving safety. Driving with a tire over six years old could be putting you and your passengers in danger. Tires dry rot with age from the inside out. When the tire gets older, it is exposed to the elements, and the strength of the bond between the rubber and the steel belts is reduced. This can cause cracks in the rubber, which may appear on the tire’s surface and can also appear out of sight within the structure of the tire. Keeping a record of your tires and understanding their age will help you save money on repairs and take proper care of your vehicle. Driving on damaged tires is extremely dangerous and can lead to a fatal accident.    It is recommended that drivers have a professional auto mechanic inspect all tires that are in use for six years or more to ensure they are still safe for use. Proper tire maintenance will also help to keep your tires working effectively and lasting longer. Keep up with tire rotati ... read more

Your vehicle should always drive straight and true. If your car veers to the right or left, there could be several possible causes — some more severe than others. The problem doesn’t always have an obvious cause. There could be an issue with tires, wheel balance, and other factors that can cause the vehicle to drift. You will need the help of an expert auto mechanic to properly diagnose the problem. It is hard to focus on safe driving when you’re constantly tugging your wheel so you can keep it straight. Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s also dangerous. We can narrow down the possibilities by looking at some of the issues that can cause this particular problem. The following are the most common culprits of why your car veers to the side.   Wheel Alignment If your wheel alignment is off, this can cause your vehicle to pull to one side and can also cause uneven wear on your tires. This the most common cause of your car veering to one si ... read more

Tires should never be neglected. The safety of your vehicle depends on it. Your car’s brakes, along with the tires, are two of the most crucial components of your vehicle. Ensuring you are driving a safe vehicle is important not only for your own safety but for other people on the road as well. Having a tire safety checklist is an important part of making sure you are driving a safe vehicle. When you get behind the wheel, especially to travel long distances, you should perform a quick safety check on your vehicle, including an inspection of your tires.   Regularly check your tire safety and maintenance checklist for some of the common issues your tires can have. Tires take more abuse than almost any other component of your automobile. They have direct contact with the road and all its elements that may cause them to wear, lose pressure, or puncture. Your tires may be easily inspected for wear and damage. How well you maintain your tires will impact your safety, vehicle perfo ... read more