Think not changing your oil won't hurt your car.

This is a picture of an engine that did not have the oil changed for 80,000 miles. If you don't realize it, all of the black sludge is not good for the engine.

Happy 4th of July!!! Happy 4th of July!!! Happy 4th of July!!! Happy 4th of July!!!

 

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!!!

Spring Driving Tips!!

Spring driving safety tips -

Check your lights. Since spring rain hinders driving visibility, make sure all your lights work, including headlights, taillights, backup lights, turn signals, parking lights, and brake lights.

Replace your wiper blades. Worn-out wiper blades may not be up to the task of clearing water away from your windshield. Check your wiper blades and replace them if necessary (usually once a year).

Check your tire pressure. Harsh winter weather can deflate your tires. Make sure you have enough air in them once spring rolls around. (As a bonus, proper tire pressure can also help you increase your mpg.)

Slow down and drive carefully. The first few rainy days of spring can produce exceptionally slippery roads due to oil and other leaked fluids mixing with rainwater, so slow down and increase your stopping distance when it's raining.

Keep your eyes peeled for bad road conditions. Remember that harsh winter weather breeds potholes and other driving obstacles.

Watch out for animals. This is especially important during the early morning and evening when animals are most active.

Holly Jolly Pets!!

Tips for Driving on Black Ice

Tips for Driving on Black Ice

Winter is quickly approaching and with this season brings inclement weather.  Rain, sleet, snow and ice can make for an unpleasant driving experience.  Motorists should be extremely cautious when driving in bad weather conditions.  Ice covered roadways can be the most dangerous, especially when it turns out to be black ice, which is nearly invisible.
Black ice is a very thin layer of frozen water containing few bubbles of air.  The lack of air bubbles makes the layer of ice transparent and causes the surface of the roadway to look slightly wet and not icy.  This can be detrimental to drivers who come upon the black ice covered road unknowingly.  Out of nowhere the vehicle can start to skid and slide in any direction, causing a vehicle to become out of control.
Typically black ice is most commonly found on roads winding around bodies of water such as lakes, rivers or on overpasses.  Moisture in the air freezes when it comes in contact with the much colder roadway.  Additionally, a sudden drop in temperature can cause an already wet roadway to quickly freeze.
Here are a few tips on how to drive on black ice:

1. Drive slowly – The best way to avoid skidding out of control is to operate your vehicle at a slower speed.  A slower speed will even give you more time to react to the effects of black ice
2. Don't slam the brakes - While it may be a natural instinct to slam on your brakes, this will only cause your car to lose control and slide even more. Tap the brake pedal lightly instead of pushing down hard on it.
3. Maintain a safe following distance – In situations like this, you need to extend you following distance to ensure you will have ample time to react to the motorist ahead especially if they begin to lose control.
4. Look for trouble spots ahead - If you have an idea that there may be black ice ahead (if you see cars ahead of you sliding, for example), downshift to a lower gear before you come onto the black ice. The lower gear will force you to drive more slowly and it will give you better control of your car.
5. As soon as your car begins to slide on black ice, take your foot off the gas pedal - In fact, the last thing you want to do is give your vehicle more gas. It is very important to slow down when you are driving on black ice or in any other winter road conditions.

Drive Safely!

Holiday Cheer!!

A little Thanksgiving humor... Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!!

 

 

Here's an update on some of the progress going on next door!!

The Kitchen area

Customer waiting area

Customer service area

Had the windows tiled in!!

Fall driving tips

Being prepared for fall's inclement weather and hazardous driving challenges is half the battle.

• Watch your speed. Drive a bit slower when faced with fall driving hazards, especially if you're driving around a school bus.
• Keep your distance. Leave a little more space between you and the car in front on rainy or foggy days, during dawn or dusk, and in areas with wet leaves. This will give you more time to react.
• Stick with low beams. Keep your headlights on low when driving in the fog (and rain). High beams will only cause glare.
• Clear frost away from your windows. Frost can reduce visibility and how quickly you respond to hazards in the road.
• Approach traffic lights carefully. Sun glare can make it harder to see traffic lights change, so approach them with more than the normal care.
• Avoid using products that increase gloss. Washing and waxing with these products can magnify the fall's sunny glare and make it hard to see.
• Clean your windshield, inside and out. When your windshield's illuminated by sunlight, dust particles, streaks, and smudges become magnified, making it hard to see the road.
• Watch for wildlife, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
• Check your tire pressure. Since fall weather rapidly changes from warm to cold, your tires will often expand and contract. This can lead to a loss of pressure.

Get Ready for Fall!!!

As the weather cools off it's time to think about getting your vehicle ready for cold weather.  Call Shorey Automotive at 785-232-3877 or go to www.shoreyauto.com to schedule your appointment.

It's Hump Day!!!

It's Hump Day!!

 

Happy Friday!!!

It's going to be a great weekend!!! 

A step in the right direction

Started laying tile down today in the new office!!! YAY!!!

Why Can't I Stop???

Some Signs That You May Need New Brakes --

First, a few words on how your brakes work.  Most cars use what are known as disc brakes. These function in much the same way as brakes on a ten-speed bicycle. A hydraulic system filled with brake fluid triggers a set of padded clamps known as calipers, causing them to squeeze together on a disc known as the rotor. The friction that occurs between the pads and rotor eventually stops the car.
Over time, as you can imagine, the pads will begin to wear thin, which means they'll become less effective at slowing and stopping your car.
Fortunately, checking the thickness of your brake pads -- those that squeeze down on the calipers -- is a straightforward procedure. All you need to do is look between the spokes of your wheel to spot the shiny metal rotor inside. When you find it, look around the outer edge where you'll see the metal caliper. Between the caliper and rotor, you'll see the pad. You'll have to estimate, but generally, your pads should be at least one-quarter of an inch thick. If they're any thinner than that, it's a good idea to get them changed.
If your car wheel isn't designed in such a way that you can see through the spokes, you'll have to remove the tire to see the rotor and pads. In either case, while you're looking, it's also a good idea to inspect the rotor itself. It should be relatively smooth. If you see any deep grooves or pits, it might also be time to replace that, as well.

 Your mom always told you that blasting music in the car wasn't good for your ears. Well, it's not good for your brakes either.
That's because one of the warning signs that your brakes need servicing can come from a small indicator in your braking system that emits a high-pitched squeal when your pads need replacing. And, while this sound is loud enough to be heard even when the windows are up, it might be tough to hear with Lady Gaga blaring from the stereo.
In addition to the squeal from the sensor, you'll also want to listen for a harsh grinding sound. This means that you've gone completely through your brake pads and now, when you apply the brakes, the metal of the calipers is grinding against the metal of your rotors. Not only is this an ineffective way to stop your car, chances are good that you'll also damage your rotors, thus turning a relatively easy and inexpensive pad job into a more costly rotor resurfacing or replacement ordeal.

Pulling -

Has your car ever felt like it has a mind of its own? As if it wants to make right- or left-hand turns while driving or braking?
If so, this could indicate a problem with the braking system. The cause of this pulling might be a stuck caliper. Because such a scenario would cause friction on one wheel and not the others, your car can pull to the side where the caliper is stuck.
Two other brake-related scenarios that could cause a car to pull would be a collapsed brake hose that would cause your calipers to move unevenly when applying the brakes, or uneven brake pads, which would also apply different amounts of pressure to different wheels.
Pulling, however, doesn't always indicate a problem with the brakes. The cause could also come from unevenly inflated or worn tires, poor alignment or a problem with your vehicle's suspension. This is why, if your car begins to pull, you'll want to pull it into the nearest mechanic's shop for a full workup

If you've ever had to execute an emergency stop in a car with antilock brakes, then you're familiar with the type of rapid brake-pedal pulsing that comes from the quick grabs the system applies to the rotor to slow the car. However, if your brake pedal pulses in this way under normal braking circumstances, you could have a problem.
Generally, a vibrating brake pedal indicates warped rotors. Their uneven surfaces will thrum against the brake pads, and you'll feel the feedback through the brake pedal.
Rotors usually only warp when they're under extreme stress for an extended period. The friction-generated heat caused by driving down steep mountainsides or by stopping frequently while towing something heavy, for example, can cause the metal of the rotors to change shape.
If you haven't stressed your brakes recently, but you still feel vibration in the pedal, you may have misaligned wheels. In either case, it's best to see a mechanic for diagnosis.

In addition to thrumming, your brake pedal can give you other indications that your car's braking system might need examining.
A mushy pedal, one that goes practically to the floor before engaging the brakes, could indicate worn pads or a problem with the hydraulic system, such as air in the line, an air leak or a brake fluid leak. To check for a fluid leak, put an old white sheet or piece of light cardboard under the car overnight. In the morning, examine any fluid that collects. Brake fluid will be practically clear and the consistency of cooking oil.
The opposite of a mushy pedal is one that causes the brakes to grab immediately at the slightest touch. This could indicate an unevenly worn rotor, dirty brake fluid or contamination of the fluid by moisture. You can solve such a problem with a relatively inexpensive change of fluid that you could do yourself or have done at your mechanic's shop.
Finally, if stopping the car seems akin to Fred Flintstone putting his feet through the bottom of the car to bring it to a halt, you might have a brake line obstruction or a problem with the vacuum system. Both situations would make the brake pedal extremely hard to operate and require immediate servicing.
 

It's HOT HOT HOT!!!

Time to get inside!!!

Happy Independence Day!!

In celebration of Independence Day, because our freedom isn't free. Thank you to all who protect and serve!!!

Fourth of July Safety Tips!!!

The 4^th of July is a time when families can gather and enjoy grilling out, laughing, and brilliant fireworks. Every year, more than 7,000 people are injured in 4^th of July related activities. Preventing these injuries involves taking a bit more time ensuring the safety of others and understanding the simplest safety precautions are often the best advice.

10. Keep pets indoors during the hottest parts of the day. At night, pets should be secured to prevent injury from fireworks.

9. Food borne illness can be a big concern with family and friends arriving at different times throughout the day. Cold foods should be kept cold and hot foods hot. When proper temperatures are not used, foods can quickly breed bacteria that may cause food poisoning.

8. Drink responsibly. Injuries from fireworks can be attributed to mishandling of fire and explosives, but drinking also comes into play. Drinking has become a huge part of many 4^th of July festivities, but a designated group of people needs to stay sober for the safety of children and adults
.
7. Douse grilling coals with water after use. Grilling out with charcoal creates the smell of summer. When foods are cooked and the grill is no longer needed, douse the coals with water to put out the fire. Coals left unattended may cause fire or injury to unattended children.

6. Drive safely even if you are not the one drinking. Designated drivers are deemed the saviors of any party where adult beverages are served, but not every party allots designated drivers. Sometimes, other drivers are the ones to worry about. If possible, stay at a location near the party site. Another option is to suggest tents be staked in the yard for a bit of late night fun and driver safety.

5. Never drink and drive. Drinking one bottle of beer or mixed drink is enough to alter visual perception of the road and ability to make decisions. At no time should drinking and driving be considered safe. When in doubt, call a cab or ask a sober friend to drive.

4. Review fireworks laws. Many cities, towns, and communities do not allow fireworks that leave the ground. Sparklers and other smaller ground level fireworks may not be included in those prohibited.

3. Keep water nearby. Fireworks can cause fire. Keeping a large tub of water or water hose nearby is crucial for fire safety during the 4^th of July party. If the fire grows quickly, remove all people from the area and dial 911.

2. Children should never light fireworks. Children may seem like miniature-grown adults, but they do not have the adult responsibility that comes with growing older. Children should never light fireworks and should be kept as far away from fireworks as possible. Even sparklers can cause a devastating burn, so review sparkler safety with all children at the party.

1. Have safe fun. Safe fun includes planning for the best and preparing for the worst. With family, friends, and neighbors all enjoying one space, time can move quickly and decisions can be altered by alcohol. Designated hosts can help to ensure everyone is having a safe and fun 4^th of July.

Got a Check Engine Light??

Facts About Reading a Check Engine Light

If your check engine light should come on you should take your car to Shorey Automotive and have one of our technicians retrieve the code. Every car from 1996 and on has OBD 2, which allows you to connect the universal connector underneath the dashboard.  Some engine codes  can be related to engine performance, transmission or are emissions related.

If your Engine Light comes on, feel free to call Shorey Automotive or go to www.shoreyauto.com to make an online appointment.

It's a HOT summer day here in beautiful Topeka, Kansas.  If you are looking to stay cool go to www.shoreyauto.com to make an appointment and use the GREAT deal to get your A/C serviced.

Officially the First Day of Summer!!

10 Ways to Celebrate Summer

 How will you celebrate the solstice and all that extra daylight??

1.       Light a bonfire - The beginning of summer solstice day was traditionally celebrated by dancing around bonfires.

2.       Go fishing - We love to get out on the water and catch the big one!!

3.       Plant a seed or a tree - Traditionally, to the farmer, the solstice is the midpoint of the growing season, halfway between planting and harvesting, and an occasion for celebration.

4.       Cook outside - There's nothing as tasty as grilled food. Have a big cook-out to help celebrate the summer solstice.

5.       Camp - Plan a camp-out to enjoy the great outdoors whether it's a tent in the backyard or a cabin in the woods!

6.       Listen to the birds - We love our feathered friends. Attract birds to your garden with a beautiful bird feeder and a birdbath.

7.       Get pampered - On Midsummer Day, near the solstice, was said to make old people look younger.  It was also thought that walking barefoot in the dew would keep the skin on your feet from getting dried and chapped.  Lots of sunshine really does cure the effects winter has on your skin.

8.       Let the light in - With all this extra daylight, open the curtains and decorate with a suncatcher in your window or on your porch.

9.       Read a book – With warmer temperatures on the rise lazy days are sure to follow. Relax poolside  or on your porch with a good book.

10.   Watch the night sky - In ancient Egypt, the New Year was celebrated when the star Sirius rose around the time of sunrise. This usually happened around the time of the summer solstice and the annual flooding of the Nile River.