Automotive News & Information - Always On Time Auto & RV Repair

It doesn't matter what type of car, truck, or SUV you drive, your tires are important. You probably know it’s time for a new set when the tread gets low - but how do you know if something else is wrong? Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, CA explains.

When you see tires advertised, you’ll often see the word “radial” attached to it. What does this mean, and where did radial tires originate? Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, CA is here, with answers to questions you weren’t even asking.

The steering and suspension systems are key safety-related systems that largely determine your car’s ride and handling. Have these systems checked regularly, at least once a year, and usually with a wheel alignment.

What does it do? - The suspension maintains the relationship between the wheels and the frame or unibody. The suspension system interacts with the steering system to provide vehicle control. When working properly, the suspension system helps absorb the energy from road irregularities such as potholes and helps to maintain vehicle stability. The steering system transmits your input from the steering wheel to the steering gear and other steering components to control the car’s direction.

Typical Wear and Tear - Over time, steering and suspension components wear out and require replacement. Regular checks are critical to maintaining a safe car. Factors that affect wear include driving habits, operating conditions (potholes in road), vehicle type, type of steering and suspension system, and frequency of regular maintenance. Some symptoms that you are having issues with your vehicle steering and suspension include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, excessive noise, vibration or bouncing, and loss of control.

Call or come by Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita today to have our professionals make sure your car is road-ready!

These days, it seems like the oil options for your oil changes are limitless - full synthetic, blends, conventional, high mileage, and the list goes on and on. We are frequently asked if it's okay to switch between oils, and how do you know what is okay to use? At Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, CA we're here to help you answer that question. When it comes to engine oil, the answer to this question can be as complicated or as simple as you want it to be!

Unless you use your vehicle to tow every day for work, odds are you haven’t paid much attention to your truck, SUV, or crossover’s towing capacity. Maybe you’re looking to buy a boat for some summer fun or just need to rent a trailer to get your belongings from one dwelling to the next. Whatever the reason for pulling something behind your vehicle, it’s important to get a firm grasp on what exactly your towing capacity means. Understanding how each of the components in your vehicle contributes to your overall tow rating can keep you from putting undue stress on your rig and keep you and your family safe.

Your drive belts are simple but integral components to the function of your car, truck, or SUV. At Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, belts are one of the first things we assess when looking over a vehicle, as they alone are in charge of operating your AC, water pump, alternator, and power steering.

The type of tire you want on your fleet or commercial vehicle depends on a variety of factors, from climate to how you use the vehicle. There are multiple tire styles for most applications, and one of them is right for you. At Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, CA, we’re ready to help you make your choice. If you’d like to narrow it down before you come see us, here’s a short rundown of common tires that will meet your specific need.

A good technician will give your car a quick inspection whenever you have maintenance performed. Fluid levels, tire condition, dashboard lights, and a variety of other items typically are briefly explored whenever you bring your vehicle in for maintenance. At Always On Time Auto & RV Repair in Santa Clarita, we're good at noticing things that need repair, but the fact of the matter is that only you know your car. You know when your car feels off when its been serviced last (or that it hasn't been serviced at all,) and have at least some vague idea of what’s going on with your vehicle day to day. Here are some questions you can ask us next time you come by the shop;