Tune in to KPNW AM1120 to hear car talk with George Rode. George is talking tires and brakes.  Tires are your first line of defense against the road

       One question always going through my mind is, “What is the right amount of vehicle maintenance:”   Too much, and you’re wasting money; not enough, and the vehicle’s dependable life flies out the window.    The owner’s manual has great information on what to do and when.   But – and this is a big but – are the maintenance recommendations enough to ensure the vehicle last a long time?    On one end of the spectrum is the “up sell” of fluid changes; oil or fluid wiped on a white rag showing how dirty it is; shocks that are seeping slightly; or the air filter that is somewhat dirty.    (Remember, a slightly dirty air filter will NOT affect your fuel mileage.   Advanced electronic engine controls compensate for this on vehicles made since 1995.   A truly plugged air filter should be replaced, however, because it will cut engine power.) ... read more

Fuel costs are rising.   Following are ways to save money at the pump.   Check tire pressure at least monthly.   Tire pressures are found on the driver’s doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.   Pressures written on the tires are a maximum pressure, not the recommended pressure.   Low tire pressure can reduce fuel mileage by 5 percent and create a safety hazard.   Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold or cool, not after freeway driving.   It is best to have your own tire pressure gauge.   They cost less than $5.    Drive smoothly, anticipate traffic lights, and refrain from quick starts.   Act as if there is an egg under your gas pedal, and accelerate slowly.    Watch the traffic lights ahead so you don’t have to use your brakes.   Plan your route, and get to know the traffic lights.   Every time you use your brakes, you waste en ... read more

We had a 2009 Mini Cooper S come into Euro-Asian on the back of a tow truck and the Mini was in a no start condition.    After further inspection we found the Mini Cooper was not getting spark to the Ignition Coils causing it to just crank over and not start.   Our master technician, Will found the passenger side floor board of the vehicle very wet.  The passenger side floor board is the area where the junction box/ module lives.   After removing the carpet we found the junction box/module to be submerged in water.    The water source was coming from the sunroof drains overflowing into the 2009 Mini Cooper S instead of draining outside of the vehicle. Will removed some of the trim around the passenger side carpet area to gain access to where the water was pooled up and used a wet vacuum to remove the standing water and he also found the Junction Box/Module connectors and wiring harness to be corroded from water damage.  ... read more