Local Auto Repair
Last month I promised you some information about a new type of spark plug that is
out on the market called a "pulse plug" because it uses a built in condenser to increase the voltage pulse of the plug, thus increasing horsepower and fuel economy (in theory). I have been running the plugs now for about 4 weeks in my Chevy HHR and had hoped to have some distance travel records to compare to my past highway mileage records to see if they will indeed provide some increase in fuel economy. But the large snow we had a week ago in the south Denver area cancelled our plans for the road trip I was hoping would provide that data. But have no fear. I am leaving for a 2200 mile round trip drive to upper Minnesota next week and I am sure by the time I return I will know exactly what these plugs have done for my fuel economy. So look for the final report early next month as I am going to publish the newsletter early to provide some closure to this experiment.In the mean time I have a couple of other things of importance to fill you all in on.
The first is some exciting news about a blog which I have created in conjunction with Autonet TV. For those of you who have spent any time in our waiting room in the last 3 years, this is the provider of the educational (and I hope entertaining) video we run on the flat screen TV. You can now access this quality automotive content at http://www.philsproauto.autotipsblog.com Here, you can find answers to many of your automotive questions as well as entertaining videos related to most of the subjects covered. This site will get updated content on a regular basis, so check back often for more "stuff."
The second item of importance this month is a reminder to inspect what I like to call "the unknown automotive air filter." What I am referring to is the cabin air filter. Since the mid 90's many vehicles have been produced which have these filters but there are just as many owners who do not know that their car even has one. This filter is in the heating/air conditioning system and is designed to filter out contaminants such as pollen, dust, mold spores and smog that enter the car through the ventilation system. The Car Care Council notes that the air inside a vehicle can be up to 6 times dirtier than the air outside so it is wise to replace these filters annually. Many of these filters also have a carbon activated section of the filter so they not only reduce allergens (which are why I recommend spring as the time of year for replacement) but they also reduce the odor of the incoming air. If you are not sure if your car has such a filter, give us a call or check your owner's manual. There are over 30 million vehicles on the road today which have the filters. Yours may be one of them.
One final note; please give us a call if we can help you get ready for that summer trip. I have included a coupon this month for a free 30 point inspection to help you get that process started. And don't forget to check your wiper blades. It's that time of year when you will probably need them.
Until then...........................
Phil White
Phil's Pro Auto Service
by: Phil White