Trivia: What to do when you slip on the ice with anti-lock brakes

Hong Kong Auto Service brakes

This winter has been full of snow and ice. If you hit a slippery patch on the road and your car has anti-lock brakes, you should: A. Throw on the hazards and turn the steering wheel violently from side to side. B. Pump the brakes hard and fast to the beat of your favorite tune.…

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Timing belt replacement can save you hundreds of dollars

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmtiYheNBWc&w=420&h=315] For many of us, replacing our vehicle’s timing belt isn’t a top-of-mind activity. But knowing when this critical engine part needs to be replaced can save you hundreds of dollars and a sudden, aggravating breakdown. Here’s why… When it comes to timing belts, it’s all in the name. The timing belt keeps your car’s…

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Bad idle air control valve triggers Check Engine light

check engine light

Your car’s “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light can flash on for more than 1,400 different reasons, and in the coming months, we’re going to share with you what some of those reasons are. The light is part of your vehicle’s on-board diagnostics (OBD) system and can indicate anything from a quick fix like…

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7 tips for saving money at the pump

Gas prices in the Chicago area were at a record high at the beginning of March—$3.92 for a gallon of regular unleaded. Even though they dipped briefly, they are back on the rise. In fact, AAA predicts that Chicago-area drivers could once again be paying the highest prices in the country by late spring. To…

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Used car inspections can help you save money, aggravation

Question: I am in the market for a used car, but I want to make sure I’m not buying a vehicle that’s going to break down or cost me a bunch of money. What can I do? Answer: The best way to protect yourself and your wallet is to bring the vehicle you are interested…

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Low oil warning light: Do you know how critical it is?

There are a number of dashboard warning lights that can pop on at any minute. Everyone knows what the battery light is for, but a lot of other lights require pulling out the owner’s manual. In the coming months, we are going to take a look at different lights and what they stand for to…

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Save money with these car buying and ownership tips

There are a number of ways to save money, such as not eating out as often and planning “staycations” instead of pricey vacations. But we often overlook a big one: what’s sitting in our driveway or garage. Not only is there the monthly payment for that car, truck, van or motorcycle, there’s also depreciation, fuel,…

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Overheated coolant triggers "check engine" light

Your car’s “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light can flash on for more than 1,400 different reasons, and in the coming months, we’re going to share with you what some of those reasons are. The light is part of your vehicle’s on-board diagnostics (OBD) system and can indicate anything from a quick fix like…

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Want an oil change with tons of benefits? Come to Hong Kong Auto Service

Question: A lot of places advertise oil changes for $9.95, $12.95 and other super-low prices. Why should I pay more at your shop? Answer: Oil changes are one of life’s necessities, at least if you own or lease a vehicle. Whether you get one at 3,000 miles, 4,000 miles or more, your car deserves to…

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