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Diesel, mostly found in trucks and some cars in the United States. It is the most energy dense fuel with widespread use today. In most other countries, diesel engines are in nearly all makes and models of cars and trucks. These engines require specialized equipment and knowledge to repair and maintain. That's why we use the best tooling and equipment possible and employ the best in the industry. In addition, we continue the education of our team for new and emerging technologies in the automotive industry. We are starting to see more diesel engines being used in smaller trucks here in the Untied States, and more European cars coming to the US with diesel options. There are some shops that don’t work on diesels, but we look forward to working with any diesel powered car or truck! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today .

No matter where you live, I bet you have experienced rough roads. The United States isn’t known for having perfect roads! Hitting potholes, bumps, dips, and any other sort of imperfection in the road is a normal part of driving. We try our best to avoid them, but it happens. That’s why automobiles have rubber tires and suspension with shocks and springs in them. That suspension is what makes your car comfortable to drive on less than perfect roads. Those bumps and holes get smoothed out by the springs your tires are attached to and the shocks help control those springs. Shocks typically use fluid, compressed nitrogen, or air to dampen the movement of the springs in your suspension. The springs carry the weight of your car and allow it to “float” over most road issues. Large potholes or debris in the road will still cause a rough ride because your suspension is only designed to handle so much. This is where off-road vehicles and suspension upgrades shine. They are designed to handle more extreme conditions that are present in off-road activities or in automotive racing. When a shock fails it may be hard to tell visually but the pressure or fluid can leak out causing the shock to have nothing to compress or dampen movement. When a spring doesn’t have a shock to control it, your car or truck will get bouncy. So if your car is feeling bouncy or you are experiencing a rougher ride than you remember. Bring it in and we will give it an in-depth inspection and test drive to pinpoint the issue. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today 

But my tires rotate every time I drive! Not that rotate! When we do a rotation service, we take the wheel off your car and move it to a different wheel well on the car. We do this to help prevent uneven tire wear. Often, the front tires wear differently than the rear tires because of turning and braking. Also, each corner of your automobile can wear tires differently. That’s why we rotate your tires during every oil service. This allows the tires to wear evenly and helps your tires last as long as possible. We also look at tire wear, pressure, and tread depth. When we remove the wheel and tire, we inspect your brakes and suspension as a courtesy. We want to ensure your vehicle lasts as long as possible, including your tires! You need a maintenance plan for your car that fits your budget and schedule. Let us create the perfect plan for you. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. We work hard to keep your life in motion.  Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a mixture of water and various chemicals to keep your engine running at the proper temperature. What is a coolant flush service? The chemicals in the coolant serve different purposes depending on the type of coolant. It can be a basic antifreeze additive all the way up to advanced European, or diesel coolant with additives. This helps with corrosion, extended service intervals, or heavy-duty use. Just like the rest of the fluids your vehicle uses, coolant has a lifespan and needs to be changed at the recommended age. When coolant breaks down, those additives become less and less effective. Another issue that you can have with coolant is contamination or debris in the cooling system. There are several components in the cooling system, often made of different materials. This can cause corrosion to form between dissimilar metals. When we service your automobile, we will inspect your coolant for breakdown and contamination. We recommend flushing your coolant every three years. That way, it stays clean and doesn’t give your coolant time to break down and cause issues. Depending on your vehicle, we can either drain your old coolant and refill it with fresh fluid. Or use a machine to flush out your old coolant and refill it with new coolant using pressure. Either way, we will make sure that your coolant is fresh and ready for another 3 years. Now is a good time to have your coolant checked before the weather gets too cold. You don’t want your cooling system freezing. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. We work hard to keep your life in motion. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Cars aren’t affected by cold like people or animals, but the cold can cause some issues. It’s that time of the year when temperatures start to drop, the rain or snow sets in, and things slow down outside. Your automobile is built to withstand a lot! Including pretty extreme weather conditions. It actually has to pass a long list of tests before it can be sold to the public. So you don’t have to worry about too much unless you live in one of those areas with extreme temperatures, like Alaska, for example. But those tests are done on brand-new vehicles. What happens after a few years and thousands of miles? We are lucky here in Albany, Oregon, and we don't get super cold here, so for us there are really only a few things to consider for your automobile when the temperatures drop. Batteries, as the temperatures decrease, so does the efficiency of batteries. That's why batteries have several ratings on their label. C.A. (Cranking Amps) is the measurement of power a battery can output at room temperature. C.C.A. (Cold Cranking Amps) is that same measurement but at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This means the battery will have to work harder to start your cold engine. Tires, colder air is more dense, so a tire can “lose” pressure even if it doesn’t have a leak. This usually only happens during the first cold snap of the year. Once you top off the tire, it should be fine. Also, cold rubber isn’t going to grip as well as hot rubber on a bright summer day; again, it's not extreme here, but it is something to be mindful of. Belts, like tires, are made of rubber and become stiffer as the temperature drops. If a belt is already in poor condition, the cold can cause it to break or start coming apart. Wipers, again made of rubber, when they age, start to get stiff regardless of temperature. Cold temps will cause them to get even stiffer and skip across the window and not even wipe any water off. In other parts of the world, your car can have a much harder time. Thick oil, freezing doors, radio screens not responding, and much more. We always inspect your automobile from bumper to bumper here at Crabtree, so we will be able to catch these things before they become a problem. So let us take care of those cold weather services and let you get back to your busy life. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. We work hard to keep your life in motion. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Have you seen gas prices lately? Every last drop counts!  Keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape is important not only for the longevity of your vehicle, but also making sure you aren’t spending more on gas than you should be. Here in the United States, we spend so much time in our car or truck that we get to know its quirks and how it operates pretty well. So when the fuel in the tank doesn’t seem to take you as far as it used to, you notice pretty quickly. There are a lot of things that could be causing this, we will go over some of the big ones. It could be time for a tune-up. Spark plugs, wires, and ignition coils are all regular maintenance items and will degrade over time. This will cause a loss in power and performance, which could lead to your vehicle using more gas than normal. Typically, if these fail you will also notice your engine running rough as well. Clogged filters, air filters especially, can cause a major loss of power. These are also part of regular maintenance. We Inspect all the fluids and filters in your vehicle every time it comes into the shop here at Crabtree. Some things aren’t part of the engine and can still cause bad mileage, such as tires with low pressure. If a tire isn't inflated properly, then it can make it harder for the car to roll down the road. Also if your alignment is bad it can cause not only tire wear, but bad fuel economy. Clogged exhaust systems: imagine the air filter or intake of a car as you being able to take a breath in. The exhaust system allows your engine to breathe out. If it is clogged, then it won't be able to breathe properly, just like a clogged air filter. These are just a few of the possibilities that could cause your automobile to use more gas than normal. That’s why we invest in industry-leading equipment to help our expert technicians diagnose and service your vehicle. Don’t wait. If you notice an issue, getting it fixed right away can save you thousands at the pump in the long run. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. We work hard to keep your life in motion. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Rainy days have their own beauty, just like sunny summer days, but rain can make driving a bit more dangerous! After talking about how tires wear and how traction decreases in the rain, visibility also typically decreases. What does “visibility” mean anyway? Rain makes it harder for you to see out of your car and for others to see you. Snow and fog also have the same effect. That's why keeping good windshield wipers on your vehicle is important. Streaking on the windshield doesn't help visibility at all. Fresh wipers will keep the rain off without leaving a mess, chattering, or skipping across the window. Taking things a step further, Aquapel, a glass treatment that is applied to the windshield. It’s like putting your wiper blades on steroids! It allows the water to bead up and blow right off the window all by itself. This means your wipers don’t have to work nearly as much to keep your vision clear. That's why we always recommend fresh wipers and Aquapel treatment every year heading into the rainy season. Our team always inspects your wipers when your vehicle comes in for service, to make sure they are still streak-free and working properly. We will let you know when it's time for replacement and give you the option to use the Aquapel treatment. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

We have talked about how important tires are and about the difference between normal tires and snow tires. What about WHEN to replace your tires? Tires are a normal wear item and are only designed to last a certain amount of time and miles. Because no road is perfectly smooth and we have to make turns, stop, and go, tires wear out. When is it time for new tires? There are several reasons for needing new tires: age, wear, and damage. Age can cause issues for tires, especially if they have spent their whole life outside in the sun. When tires age, they dry out, become less soft, and develop cracks in the rubber around the wheel or tread. While this may not immediately cause issues, a car or truck that doesn't get driven often can be extremely dangerous. It could separate or rupture without warning just sitting there or worse while driving down the road. Tires have date codes on them they will tell you when a tire was made. If your tire shows no signs of aging, it can still be unsafe. Some tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are 6 to 10 years old, regardless of tread wear. Wear is normally the number one reason for replacing tires. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) recommends replacing all tires when the wear bars in the tread of your tires are flush with the tread. These wear bars are set to 2/32’s of an inch of tread depth. At Crabtree, we recommend 3/32 replacement, especially during the rainy season. As tread depth decreases, traction in wet conditions also decreases. Damage to your tires can, unfortunately, happen at any time. Hitting a huge pothole, hitting a curb, or running over something on the road can all cause blowouts or flat tires. Other times, running a tire too low on air or too high can cause uneven tire wear or even damage the sidewall of the tire. A blowout can’t be fixed and will require a new tire, but a flat might be able to be repaired. We have tire patches and the tools needed to seal small punctures in the tread of tires. But punctures in the side of a tire will not be fixable and require replacement. So, now that you know what to look for, it’s recommended that you check your tires once a month. If Crabtree Automotive services your automobile, we will also check your tires every visit. Along with the rest of your car or truck! We can get tires for almost anything you drive, so stop in today to get your fresh set of tires. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

It’s a fair question, even if we are an independent automotive facility. Let's dive in! Typically, an independent facility is going to be comparable in price. While there are things like warranty repairs and recalls that have to go to the dealership. An independent shop, especially one like Crabtree Automotive, can and will give you better service. They also offer parts and repairs that exceed the factory's specifications. For example, some manufacturers may suggest 10,000 miles or more between an oil change and may use factory oil and filters. They have large change intervals to help reduce maintenance costs, But we always recommend changing your oil at most every 5,000 miles because even the highest quality oil breaks down. We want to change your oil before it has a chance to degrade and cause any issues. We will also use an oil and filter that meets or exceeds the factory requirement. Speaking of oil changes, when you finally buy that brand-new vehicle or one that still has a factory warranty, you obviously want to keep that warranty safe. We understand how expensive auto repair can be. That's why it's great news that when you bring your automobile here for service, your factory warranty isn't affected! As that car or truck ages and the factory warranty runs out, we will still be here to keep your life in motion. Another bonus of an independent repair facility like ours is if there is a part or repair procedure that fixes a factory flaw or issue, we can handle it. Whereas a dealership is typically limited to factory parts and procedures. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Have you ever been driving, hit the brakes, and heard just an awful sound? It could be something simple like a small rock getting stuck between the brake parts, or it could be time for a brake service. Brakes work off friction; a brake pad or shoe is made of very rough material and is pressed against the brake rotor or drum, and that is what stops your vehicle. Under normal conditions, brakes aren't going to make noise, but sometimes, small rocks or other road debris can get in there and make noise. Or when a brake pad wears down on some models, they have a part designed to squeal on purpose to alert you that the pads have reached the end of their lifetime and need to be replaced. Most European cars have sensors in the pad or caliper that will warn you on the dash that the pads need to be replaced instead of making a noise. If you ignore these warnings or if your automobile doesn't have either of these features and you wear completely through your pads or shoes, then you will hear the squealing and grinding sound of the metal backing plate making contact with the rotor instead of the normal brake material. This is actually dangerous because while metal against metal makes a lot of noise, it doesn’t stop very well. Anytime your vehicle comes into our facility, we will be doing a full inspection, including checking the brake pads, shoes, and rotors. So let us keep your car in tip-top shape, including the BRAKES! We have a standard for how much wear we allow on brake pads and will let you know when replacement is recommended so you don’t have to hear that annoying sound and, more importantly, keeping you safe. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today 

Your car leaking stuff on the ground is annoying and can be embarrassing. It can also be a big problem. Obviously, a vehicle shouldn't leak anything, but with age, these things can develop. There are several fluids and oils in your car, like motor oil, transmission fluid, coolant, gear oil, and fuel. Even EV’s use coolant and gear oil. Sometimes, when a leak develops, it can be hard to figure out where it is coming from. The wind from driving can blow the fluid everywhere and really make a mess. Small leaks can build up gunk over long periods of time because they may not leak enough to leave a spot on the ground alerting you to an issue. Other times, a major seal or hose can fail and cause a massive leak right away. It's always a good idea to check your fluid levels often. Some modern automobiles don’t have dipsticks anymore to allow you to check fluid physically, but some do have sensors to check fluid levels and fluid conditions, which you can see in the menu on your dash screen. While some other vehicles require special tools to check the fluids. We have those tools. So, how do we find those difficult leaks? When your automobile comes in for an oil leak, we deep clean the area where it looks like is leaking. Look for any obvious gasket failure, broken hoses, or drips. After a deep clean and inspection, if the leak still isn’t showing, we will take your car for a test drive to try and expose the location of the leak. Finally, if the leak is small enough to still not show up we will add a dye to the fluid and let the customer drive it for a few days and bring it back. The dye we use is a UV dye. A special light allows us to pinpoint even the smallest leak. That way, we are only replacing the part that has failed and not just throwing parts at it, hoping it's fixed. This saves you money, and it saves us time! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Your car not starting is a huge inconvenience, and no one has time for that. We’ve talked about batteries and starting issues before. When a car will turn over or crank but not start, that’s not typically a battery issue. The engine in your automobile requires all the systems to work in order for it to start and run. While these systems can be complex, they can be categorized into four simple functions. Fuel, air, spark, and compression. If your fuel injectors aren’t supplying fuel to the engine, then there is nothing for the engine to ignite. There is a pump and filter that supplies the fuel to those injectors, and the computer controls all of it. If anything fails, then fuel won't be sent to the injectors. If your air filter is plugged, then the engine can’t breathe properly and won’t be able to burn the fuel. Also, a sensor that monitors the air intake could fail, making the engine think it's not getting air even if it actually is. Spark is used to ignite the fuel in your engine and create the power to start and run. Spark plugs do wear and fail over time. There are also sensors and components that control spark that can cause problems. And finally, compression. This is not a part but a function of a few parts. Your engine takes that air and fuel mixture and compresses it in the cylinder with the piston and crankshaft. As it is being compressed, the spark plug ignites the mixture, causing a small explosion. That is why gasoline and diesel engines are also called internal combustion engines (I.C.E.) If a piston or the rings on the piston have damage or the gaskets around the cylinder have failed, combustion gasses can leak and cause your engine to not run. As you can see, making an engine run has a lot of moving parts, and if any of those don’t happen at just the right time, then it won’t be able to run. Luckily, we have a fantastic staff here at Crabtree Automotive that have years of experience in gas and diesel engines. We will diagnose which system is causing your no-start issue and use the best parts available to repair the issue. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today 

We have discussed getting your car ready for winter, snow chains, ensuring the heat works, and general maintenance. What about driving in that snow, ice, or heavy rain? The first step is having your vehicle inspected and resolving any issues we may find. Next is driving in the cold temperatures with all of the other drivers on the road! We can’t help anyone's driving habits, but we can help you be prepared for issues you may encounter. No matter what time of the year or what the temperature is outside, you should have a quality roadside emergency kit. In winter, adding an extra jacket, a warm blanket, and some heavier footwear is a good idea. You may end up stopping for a long time due to an accident, breakdown, or bad weather; especially, if you are traveling somewhere without a lot of traffic. Most importantly, an ice scraper, snow brush, and keeping your fuel tank as full as possible during winter is essential. Now that you AND your car are prepared for winter driving, the last detail is driving safely in the conditions. Almost 2,000 people die every year due to winter car accidents. According to AAA, “stopping on snowy roads can take up to 10 times longer to stop.” The Weather Channel states, “ Slushy or snowy pavement causes a 30% to 40% speed reduction on major roads”. Even if you drive safely and aren’t involved in an accident directly, a traffic jam on a snowy highway or mountain pass can have you stuck for hours and, in some extreme cases, days. That is the main reason why you want to keep your fuel tank full in winter. That way, you can keep your engine running and stay warm. Packing some extra snacks and water on longer winter trips is also a good idea. If you haven’t had us already prepare your car for winter call or stop in today to schedule your service and inspection! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

It’s getting cool in the morning again. What a bad time to find out the heater in your car isn’t working anymore.  If you have been driving for any amount of time, then you know it takes a few minutes for your vehicle to warm up in the cold weather. But what about when the vents never warm up? There's a problem! We will touch on a few of the basics. The heater in your car works off the coolant that the engine uses to stay at the proper temperature. If the engine thermostat isn't functioning properly, the coolant may just not be warm enough to blow warm air into the interior. Also, that coolant flow could be blocked in your heater core, which brings the warm coolant into the vehicle's interior. Or it could be low on coolant as well, which will reduce flow as well. Another possible issue could be the controls on the dash; if the computer that controls heat and air conditioning malfunctions, it could be keeping that warm air from blowing. There are many other possible issues or combinations of issues that cause the heat to not work in your car or truck, but those are a few of the more common ones. Don’t worry if your heat stops working. We have the tools and staff ready to take care of it, no matter the cause. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

A belt squeal can be an awful noise. It can be scary too, if you haven’t experienced it before. A squeal from under the hood is never a good thing, sometimes; it can be something simple. Often, it's an indication of a bigger problem. The belt that runs all the accessories of your engine is called the drive belt or serpentine belt. That drive belt can sometimes get wet if you are driving in heavy rain or hit a large puddle. That can cause a squeak or squeal that goes away quickly. Otherwise, if you hear a squeaky noise from your car, you need to get it checked out. The belt itself does age and wear out over time, but it could possibly be that an engine leak has developed and is getting the belt and pulleys wet. Or one of the accessories the belt runs on is starting to fail and isn’t spinning as freely as it should. There are several things that could be causing the squeal, so getting it looked at quickly is essential. While a noise is annoying, that belt breaking or one of those accessories failing can be damaging to your engine and also dangerous to drive as your steering or brakes could stop working if that belt breaks. Our Technicians have the tools and experience necessary to diagnose any issue or sound coming from your car. Let us take care of your car issues so we can keep your life in motion! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Diesel engines are known for being more powerful and effective than their gasoline counterparts. An unfortunate thing they are known for is being harder to start in the winter. This is different for modern diesel engines. Because of the way older diesel engines operate, if they have not been very well maintained, there may be some trouble starting when the weather cools down for the winter. Like modern gasoline engines, diesels have grown in complexity to enable them to produce more power and less emissions at the same time. Diesel engines use glow plugs or intake heaters to warm the inside of the engine upon starting to help burn the diesel fuel. Since diesels don’t use spark plugs, but instead use heat and pressure to ignite the fuel. On a cold day, the engine needs to be warmed to help them start faster. That is why in winter, especially on really cold days, you will see big semi trucks and even pickup trucks taking longer to start. They may even smoke out the tailpipe after they start. When it gets extremely cold, a diesel engine in perfect working order might take longer to start. You may also notice diesel-powered vehicles with extension cords plugged into them when they are parked overnight or when they aren't being used during the winter. That is powering the block heater. A block heater is used to keep the oil, coolant, or both warm so that the engine stays warm and allows an easier start like it's a mid-summer day even when the temps outside are below zero. Modern diesel engines start so well now that you won’t run into most of these issues unless you live in a very cold climate. If your diesel is suffering from hard starting it needs to get checked out before winter really sets in. Glow plugs and grid heaters do fail from time to time, and that can cause some huge issues during the cold months. Diesel engines need to be taken care of just like a gasoline engine, but there are some things to pay extra attention to. Oil choice during cold weather. Here in Oregon, we don’t have cold enough temperatures to make a difference, but again in those extreme climates, thinner oil in the winter might be recommended. Or if you are taking a trip into colder climates, it's something to think about. Coolant condition needs to be checked. Diesel engine cooling systems are so much larger that making sure the coolant stays clean and at the proper level is vital. Batteries and the starting system will work extra hard during the cold season, so make sure they are good to go with a system check and battery test. We have the expert staff and state-of-the-art tools necessary to repair and service all your Diesel Powered Needs! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

New cars with all their technology are great, but a light on the dash can be annoying if it looks like nothing is wrong. Although, there might be a good reason it’s on. As the temperatures outside start to drop every year, we have increased calls and visits from people with a low tire light on the dash. Without getting too “sciencey”, hot or warm air expands, and cool or cold air contracts. So for a tire, that means the pressure can increase and decrease based on temperature. The monitoring system in automobiles has a range of pressures it considers safe, so during normal day-to-day conditions, your warning light isn't going to go on and off. A tire that was checked or filled in the middle of summer to the correct pressure on a cold winter day could be just low enough to set the warning light. Nothing is wrong, it just needs to be topped off. When summer comes back around, you need to check the pressure to ensure they aren't overinflated. This is so important because tire pressure affects how your car drives. Overinflated tires have less traction than the car was designed to use, and the ride will be harsher than it should be. Underinflated tires won’t be as stable on the road, and your fuel economy will suffer as well. Either condition will also wear out the tires faster as well. We check your tire pressure and the condition of your tires during every inspection here at Crabtree Auto. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today 

Here in Oregon, the weather is already starting to change; like it or not, winter is coming. Before winter, we do have a fall. Here, that means rain, rain, and more rain. Rain means a few things for drivers: you need good wiper blades and good tires, which we check during inspection here at Crabtree. Once winter arrives and the cold sets in, there are a few more things to be mindful of. Like Fall, Winter requires more of your tires and wipers than summer. Also, if you live in a place where you have to deal with snow, you may want to change your tires to dedicated snow tires. The difference between snow tires and regular tires is traction. Snow tires are designed for maximum grip on slippery surfaces. That is accomplished in a few ways. The rubber on a snow tire is much softer. Since snow is typically soft and fluffy, a snow tire can be softer than a normal tire without wearing out quickly. You can run a snow tire on dry, clean roads, but you will be wearing them out fast. That is why you can’t drive on snow tires year-round. Places that have a lot of snowfall use snow tires with metal “studs” in the tread for even more traction! If you don’t want to deal with a second set of tires for winter, or you live in a place where it snows, but not consistently. Snow chains might be a good option for you. Snow chains go onto your regular tires and wrap around the wheel and tire. They add traction so you can travel in conditions your regular tires wouldn't be able to. Call or come in today, and we can walk you through your options for snow tires for the winter ahead, or we can show you how to properly use snow chains if you haven’t been taught yet! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

The reason oil changes are required is pretty simple: friction. An engine is a complex machine with a lot of moving parts. The internal parts of your engine are made of various types of metal, and when metal moves against metal, friction causes issues. As a kid, do you remember rug burns? That's friction. Without oil to lubricate your engine, the bearings, and other moving parts would seize up almost immediately. So now we know what the oil does in an engine: it lubricates and helps keep things cool. The oil itself breaks down with age and time. Also, even though oil helps lubricate your engine, there is still normal wear that occurs. That wear causes small metal fragments to be deposited into the oil. That is why there is also an oil filter on your engine to catch those fragments before they get into a bearing or other small oil passage. So, since we know that oil breaks down and engines naturally wear over time, then we start to understand why changing your oil and filter is important. How often is the next question. Every manufacturer recommends different oil change intervals, but here at Crabtree, we stick to a safe standard of 3,000 miles for conventional oil and 5,000 miles for synthetic oil and diesel. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Ever jump in your car, hit the key and nothing happens? Panic sets in, you don’t have time to deal with a dead battery! Sometimes these things happen, maybe a light got left on, or something in the car failed and drained the battery. Batteries will start your car or truck time and time again, but once they start to die sometimes getting your vehicle started can get harder. Typically they will die without much warning. That’s why proper battery testing is important during your normal maintenance. During every service at Crabtree, we inspect all aspects of your vehicle, including the battery and charging/starting system. A battery test will tell us what condition your battery is in and how much life it has left. We keep batteries in stock for nearly all makes and models. If it’s not in stock we can have it here in a short amount of time. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Have you ever started driving your car and notice its shaking or vibrating as you drive? There are a few things it could be, but today we will talk about the most common: Tires. Tires play a vital role in your automobile. They are what connect your car to the road. Tires are made of rubber and filled with air to cushion all the bumps and holes in the road, and to get traction in all sorts of weather and driving conditions. They also have metal wires inside of them to increase their strength and stability (called steel belts). Tires wear with daily use and also can dry out and start cracking from the sun. Like any part of an automobile, a tire can fail as well. One of those failures can be the steel belts we just mentioned. Sometimes, those can break inside the tire and cause the tire to not be perfectly round anymore causing a serious vibration Because of how fast a tire has to spin during normal use they have to be balanced when you install them. And they may need to be balanced a few times in their lifetime. If not, they can cause a vibration or shake. Failure on a tire that is properly inflated and not super old isn’t very common so don’t be worried. When tires get old and dry out blow outs, broken belts, and flats are more common. That’s why we inspect all your tires when your car or truck comes into our shop. We check for cracking, low pressure, uneven wear, and any signs of damage. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Click Here to Schedule Service Today

It’s that time of the year again. School shopping, getting your kid signed up for classes, and getting everyone ready for another school year. You don’t want to deal with car trouble too! Sometimes breakdowns happen, but there are a few things we can do to help keep that to a minimum. Getting your car ready for the extra Back-to-School duties is important. The miles that usually come with school duties, or a new teen driver can put stress on your automobile. You can start by washing your car. Not only will it be nice to have a clean, fresh car to start the school year off with, but it can help you identify issues you may not have noticed. Along with washing it, you can replace wiper blades and fill the windshield washer fluid. You also want to make sure that you have a good roadside emergency kit and a good spare tire with the proper air pressure. The rest of your automobile will need to be inspected as well. Here at Crabtree Automotive we offer a DVI (Digital Vehicle Inspection) which includes going from front to back, top to bottom. Looking at things like your tires, coolant, spark plugs, and all the fluids. A fresh oil change is always a good idea before life gets busy again with school. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below.  Click Here to Schedule Service Today

Do you ever get into a car on a hot summer day, turn on your A/C just to be met with an awful smell? Yeah, it’s no fun. I'm sure we have all experienced that, but what causes the smell? (This is a dirty A/C Evaporator from a 2012 Ford F-450 that was used on a farm. just goes to show how filthy they can get) The A/C and Heating system circulate air throughout your car or truck much like the A/C used in your house. Also like your house, most automobiles have filters in the A/C and Heating System (these are called cabin air filters). Cabin air filters trap a lot of smells and allergens. Regular maintenance of replacing your cabin air filter can keep odors at bay. For automobiles that don’t have cabin air filters the heater and cooling elements, and the vents, can collect dirt and allergens that a filter would stop. So cleaning those elements and vents are required. BG Services steps up again with their Frigi-Fresh Service, It cleans and disinfects your air vents. Even if your car has a cabin air filter, sometimes the vents can still get dirty and start to smell over time. This is a good service to perform after cabin air filter replacements or anytime a smell develops. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below.  Click Here to Schedule Service Today

What is engine oil sludge? Oil sludge, or buildup, happens when proper maintenance is not done or in extreme conditions.  There are some engine issues that can cause oil sludging, but regardless we have the ability to clean it up no matter the cause. Our partner, Northwest BG, also provides us with a combination of chemicals to deep clean your engine and keep it clean afterwards. The BG Engine Performance Service cleans the deposits, prevents future deposits from forming, and helps restore fuel economy and performance. This service is great for an automobile that has been neglected from proper oil changes, poor quality oil used, or severe use conditions. It is also a great service to add to your regular maintenance, because it helps prevent buildup from the start. Think of it like this, when you buy a new-to-you vehicle you would like for it to be clean. Your engine likes to be clean as well! Keep that in mind the next time you buy a used car or truck, this is a great first maintenance item to do. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Schedule Your Service Today

Transmission Slip is a big problem. It’s not the only thing that can go wrong in a transmission but it’s one of the common ones. It is also a problem that can usually be prevented with proper maintenance. What is Transmisson Slip? It’s something you will feel more than hear, going down the road you press on the gas, the engine revs up but your car doesn’t move any faster. That is transmission slip! There are internal parts that use a combination of fluid and friction to move you down the road and they need clean fluid to keep working properly. Poor maintenance or abuse makes your transmission more prone to slipage. We offer BG Transmission Services, which uses special cleaning fluid and a machine to circulate the clean and fresh fluid into your transmission. Not all, but most, transmissions have a filter which we replace. So by draining your old fluid, flushing the entire transmission, replacing the filter and then refilling with a quality fluid you will keep your transmission happy and healthy for years to come! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even Diesels. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Schedule Your Service Today

Fuel system cleaners are more important than ever before with how complex modern fuel systems are these days. That’s why we teamed up with BG Services to bring you the best chemicals to service your automobile! Today we are going to talk about their Fuel System and Intake Services. The reason these services are needed is because carbon can build up in the upper part of the engine because most engines have the fuel injected directly into the engine cylinder vs fuel being injected into the upper intake like they used to be. Even then carbon would build up but not as quickly. When carbon builds up your engine can start to run rough, get poor mileage, and even loose power. Also the fuel we use matters. Some fuel can be pretty dirty and also build up junk in the fuel system. The Platinum Fuel Service is designed to take care of this issue. By dissolving these build ups and deposits and burning them though the engine. This service is great for breathing new life into an older neglected engine, or doing it as a part of your regular maintenance to keep the engine clean and running smooth. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Schedule Service Now.

Being able to go and stop are important, but what about turning? Yes, also very vital! Modern vehicles have made driving a fun and easy thing to do. One of the many improvements is the steering system. Not that long ago, power steering was only an option and didn’t come with every vehicle. Power steering allows you to turn the wheel with little to no effort. If you have ever tried to turn your steering wheel with the vehicle off, then you know what it's like to not have power steering. The steering rack is the part that takes your motions with the steering wheel and turns the wheels from side to side. These parts typically last a very long time, so when this customer came in with steering issues we had to put their truck on the lift and take a deeper look. The customer had a complaint of the steering wheel sometimes getting stiff or stuck when turning. Our team checked the ball joints and tie rods on the front suspension and they didn’t indicate any issues. We looked further only to find a steering rack with the outer case broken. We replaced the whole rack, and the customer was back on the road in no time. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between!

Has anyone seen the fuel prices lately? We need all the help we can get with saving money! One place you could save some money is improving your vehicle's fuel economy. There are several components that contribute to your fuel economy. Keeping up on the normal maintenance, making sure there is not a Check Engine Light on, and your car running smoothly are all factors that contribute to the fuel economy.. Also, a proper alignment is helpful so the car isn’t pulling to one side or the other driving down the road. Something as simple as tire pressure can also make a massive difference in MPG (mile per gallon). And make your tires last longer! Maintenance on your vehicle includes oil change with an oil filter, air filter and fuel filter replacements. Also, transmission and differential fluid exchange, spark plugs and spark plug wire replacement. Another contributor is the body of your vehicle. If you have damage that can affect airflow around the body, it will cause an increase in the fuel usage. Getting into extremely fine details, even keeping your paint clean and smooth will help. You can also do things to improve your MPG over the factory estimates. Aftermarket air filters, exhaust systems, and tuners can help improve performance AND mileage. The number one thing that affects your vehicle’s Miles per Gallon is how you drive. There is an entire hobby / car culture built around driving to get the best mileage possible (hypermiling). Some of the basics of driving to improve MPG’s are not using two feet to drive, don’t press the brake and gas at the same time, and coasting more. Don’t speed off from the stop light, just to slam on the brakes a few hundred feet away at the next light. Drive smoothly, easy take-off and come to a smooth stop. We can’t help you with certain driving habits, but we can help get your car as efficient as possible. We can even do aftermarket upgrades to help improve your MPG. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today .

Summertime, Bring on the fun and the sun! Some of the best things about summer can give your car the most trouble. Heat! As we come into the summer months, the warmer temperatures can wreak havoc on your car or truck. It’s already getting warm out there; Texas is melting as we speak! With higher temps, your car's cooling system has to work harder than ever to keep the engine cool and keep you cool inside. We have gone over the cooling system before, but with summer here now, it's a good time to go over a few things. When your car starts to warm up, your cooling fan will engage, the thermostat opens up, and your water pump may increase its speed. Usually, that’s enough to keep things under control. But if you have a coolant leak and don’t have enough coolant in your car, then all those things won’t be enough. Or if your fan fails to turn on, the radiator is clogged, or your thermostat gets stuck in a closed position. Even the water pump itself can fail then no coolant at all is flowing. Luckily your car or truck has sensors and sometimes even a gauge on the dash to let you know if there is an issue with your cooling system. These parts do sometimes fail, but proper maintenance can help prevent that or at least let you know when a part may be starting to have an issue, and we can fix it before it leaves you stranded on the side of the road. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today with the link below. Schedule your Service Today

Usually that's caused by an issue in the brake system, which we discussed earlier in THIS BLOG. Warped brake rotors are usually the cause for a shake while braking. The reason a brake rotor becomes warped can be a few things. Holding your foot on the brakes for long periods of time, pushing very hard on your brakes, or even overloading your car or truck's weight rating can all cause excessive heat in your brake pads and rotors, which in turn warp your steel rotors. What does warped mean? Normally a brake rotor is a nice flat surface that allows your brake pad to clamp down smoothly when braking. When excessive heat builds up on the rotor, the flat surface starts to form waves. Those waves are what we refer to when we say, “warped” rotors. Now when you step on the brake, the pads and rotors start to shake because the surface isn’t flat anymore. High performance and race cars have improvements to the pads and rotors to keep this from happening. Those use larger pads and rotors, cooling slots, and different types of material. These upgrades can even be done to your vehicle to improve braking, even beyond the factory specification. This also will help with hauling heavier loads. You can keep this from happening to your car by not riding your brakes, giving more time to stop, and stopping less aggressively at stoplights. It is also important to not overload your car or truck, so that the brakes don’t have to stop with more weight than they are designed to do. What do you do if your rotors are warped? Typically new pads and rotors are required once a rotor has become warped. In some special cases the rotor can be machined flat again, but not often. We have all the tools and knowledge to service the brake system on your car or truck. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

New automobiles have so much technology in them, that it is very hard to find out what is wrong without needing some special tools. One of the tools commonly used is a scanner. As cars have advanced, so have the tools used to repair them. Before computers and advanced circuitry made its way into cars and trucks, a simple multimeter and a test light took care of most electrical issues in a vehicle. Those days are long gone! Multimeters and test lights are still valuable tools, but they aren’t going to help with any computer issue. The nice thing about having so many computers in automobiles is when a scanner is used it can help speed up the diagnostic process. When something goes wrong with the electrical system of a modern car, sometimes it will send an error message to the dash, but sometimes it won’t. That's where a scanner comes in. Scanners will help read error codes, clear error codes, and help a technician pinpoint a faulty sensor, wiring issue, or even a part failure. Another great feature is the ability to perform system tests and manually control various parts of your car. This allows a technician to test a part or sensor without replacing it and costing you extra money for unneeded parts and the labor of changing those parts. Scanners are not cheap, but the time they save is invaluable. Reducing the time needed for a diagnosis and eliminating the changing of unnecessary parts. They allow us the ability to get more customers taken care of in a day, and allows you the chance to get your car back on the road faster. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

There are a lot of components that may cause your car to run poorly. It can be something simple or something deep within your engine. The heart of every car and truck is the engine.  The engine is what everything else in your car depends on to get from point A to point B. It is what makes the power to turn your wheels and send you down the road. Engine performance is measured by horsepower and torque. Horsepower measures how quickly power is created, and torque measures how much power is made. And no, one horsepower is not equal to one horse. Some people purchase their car based on those two performance numbers and usually enjoy their vehicle for more than just a mode of transportation. But even if you don’t care about the performance of your engine, you still need it to run properly; that’s why maintenance is important. Oil, air, and fuel filters, along with fluid changes, are vital to keeping your engine running for many miles to come. Beyond that, the spark plugs, ignition coils, and spark plug wires are also items that need to be replaced throughout the lifetime of your car or truck. Different engine types require different things of course, but that covers the basics. Inside the engine there are quite a few moving parts that we won’t get into. If something internally fails it can be a pretty serious problem. We have the tools and skills here at Crabtree to do everything from simple maintenance to a full engine replacement. We also tailor a maintenance schedule for you to fit your vehicle and your budget. To keep your car healthy and your wallet happy. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

A transmission is what makes your car move down the road. Like the electrical system in modern cars the transmission is very complex, but we can break it down some. There are a few types of transmissions, the most common is the Automatic transmission, then there is the Manual Transmission. Finally, the CVT transmission is not as common in trucks, but heavily used in powersports like ATVs, snowmobiles, and UTVs. There are many variations of each type, but we will go over the most popular of each. They all take the power that is produced by the engine and send it to the wheels through gears, fluid, or belts depending on the design of the transmission. An Automatic Transmission, as the name suggests, automatically shifts the gears in the transmission for you as you travel down the road. You do have to shift the car from park to drive, reverse, or neutral. Once in drive, the transmission will start in the lowest gear and shift up a gear depending on speed and several other factors. Reverse is a single gear and neutral is no gear, this allows the car to roll either direction if pushed or sitting on a hill etc. The computer in a car or truck controls when the transmission shifts. It will monitor several sensors and calculate what gear it should be in. It is connected to the engine through something called a torque converter. The torque converter uses fluid to spin several fan discs to transfer the engine power into the input shaft of the transmission. From there the power travels through various clutch discs and gears, to finally leave the transmission though driveshafts down to your wheels. Manual Transmissions are similar, except where an automatic transmission uses fluid to transfer the engine power into the transmission, a manual uses the clutch, a third pedal next to your brake pedal. Instead of shifting through all the gears for you, a manual has a gear shifter mounted in the car. Usually near the center console you will have a gear shift lever (sometimes called a Stick). The shifter and clutch pedal are used to change gear. When the shifter is in the middle position the transmission is in neutral and the car can roll in either direction. The clutch pedal is used to disconnect the engine from the transmission so that you can put the transmission into gear and start moving the car. Once in gear, slowly releasing the clutch will gently engage the engine and transmission, again finally sending power through the transmission and down to the wheels. The last transmission we will talk about is the CVT (constantly variable transmission). Extremely popular in UTVs and ATVs, this type of transmission is completely different from the others. You have a shifter still for forward, neutral and reverse. This transmission uses a belt between the engine and transmission to transfer power. A centrifugal clutch, mounted on the engine, engages the belt depending on engine speed. If you have ever been on a go-cart, then you have seen this style of clutch in use. This type of transmission, some believe to be the most efficient out of any transmission currently available. The main reason these aren’t widely used in trucks is all of your engine power runs through a single belt. That is not good for towing or high horsepower applications. Transmission failure can happen in several ways like your car not wanting to go in gear, or it going in gear, but not actually moving. Or even fluid leaks on the ground. Transmission fluid, like all fluids, breaks down over time and needs to be changed several times throughout the lifetime of your vehicle. Transmissions need to be serviced to help prevent a failure from occurring. Our team has all the tools needed to service or repair any transmission. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

There are few feelings in this life worse then jumping in your car early in the morning to head to work, turn the key, and CLICK, nothing. Dead battery! Maybe that is a bit dramatic but it’s not fun at all. Modern car’s and truck’s have so much technology packed into them these days the electrical system is easily the most complicated part of the whole car. There’s not much in the electrical system that is easly user serviceable, except for batteries, fuses, and some light bulbs. Electronics are involved in nearly every function of a modern automobile. So its safe to say we have invested heavily into our electrical diagnostic equipment and training here at Crabtree Auto. All that said there are a few key components. Battery, starter, and alternator. When you start your car the battery sends power to your starter which spins the engine and gets it running. Once your engine is running the alternator recharges the battery and supplies the electrical power needed to run all the electronics in your car or truck. Batteries are also a maintenance item and will need to be replaced several times during the lifetime of your car or truck. We will check all these main components during our standard inspection along with checking the remaining life of your battery. Some signs that a battery could be getting weak is harder starting or taking longer to start. Of course when a battery gets too weak to start your car it’s likely time to replace it. There can be other issues causing your battery to drain faster than normal, we can test for this and find the underlying problem. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Our car may run great, but you have to slow down and stop at some point. That's where brakes come in! When you step on the brake pedal in your car or truck, you expect your vehicle to slow down and eventually come to a complete stop, but do you know how that process works? In your car or truck, brakes work off something called hydraulic pressure. Your brake pedal is attached to a booster that takes the pressure you apply to the pedal and amplifies it. The booster then takes that increased pressure and compresses the fluid in your brake system, which sends that pressure into your brake calipers or drums. A caliper uses hydraulic pressure to drive a piston that squeezes a brake pad into the rotor to slow it and the wheel down. The brake pads are mounted into the caliper and sit on each side of the rotor so that it can clamp onto both sides evenly. The rotor is a large disc that sits behind your wheel and is connected to the wheel and axle of your vehicle. It is typically made of thick steel and the brake pads are made of a high friction material. When the pads clamp down on the rotor the extreme friction causes your car to slow down. The speed at which you slow down depends on how hard you step on the pedal. Race and high performance cars have started to use other types of material for the pads and rotors but still operate similarly. Drum brakes are an older style of brakes and are not used as often. When you do see drum brakes, they are on the rear wheels of a car or truck. They also use hydraulic pressure to operate. Instead of clamping a disc with pads, drum brakes use a large bowl looking “drum” that sits behind your wheel, and brake shoes apply pressure to the sides of the drum. Drums are made of the same material as rotors and shoes, the same as pads. There are various brake lines, valves, and sensors that all contribute to the complexity of your brake system. Hybrid and EV vehicles add even more complexity. Brakes are also a normal maintenance item; brake pads and shoes wear down, along with rotors and drums. How long they last depends on how you drive, what you drive, and the quality of the parts you use. Brake fluid also degrades over time and needs to be flushed from time to time. We have all the equipment necessary to service your brake system and the knowledge to repair anything that fails in the lifetime of your car or truck.  At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today .

Your vehicle’s cooling system uses a mixture of water and antifreeze to be able to operate in all weather conditions. Antifreeze is also referred to as coolant because of its chemical composition. It allows the water in the cooling system to work below freezing and above boiling temperatures. Coolant is pumped through your engine and into the radiator, where a fan is used to pull air through the radiator, lowering the temperature of the coolant inside the radiator. It’s the same process used to heat or cool the inside of your car or home just in reverse. Your cooling system has a few main components: a pump, radiator, thermostat, and the hoses that connect all these components together. The Thermostat is what keeps the whole system at the correct temperature, too cold and it keeps the coolant from entering the radiator. Too warm and the thermostat opens, sending all the coolant into the radiator. Which is located usually in or very close to the pump. Radiators are typically mounted up front behind the grill with a fan, either electric or mechanical directly behind it to pull air through when the vehicle isn't moving. Pumps are also either electric or mechanical and are often on or close to the front of the engine. Most are still mechanically run by the belt and pulley system on the engine itself. Cooling systems are usually pretty trouble free and fairly low maintenance, but coolant does break down overtime, meaning it should be flushed and cleaned periodically. If something in the system fails it can cause some big problems. We have all the specialized tools to service even the most complicated cooling systems in your car or truck. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

What is an alignment? Well, it's getting your car or truck lined up… but what does that mean exactly. When we talk about Alignments what we are talking about is getting all 4 wheels pointed in the same direction and rolling smoothly down the road. We talked last week about tires and tire wear. A big factor in tire wear is a bad alignment. Besides improper tire wear a bad alignment will cause your car or truck to pull to one side going down the road. It can also have poor handling in general. There are a lot of adjustments to be made on a typical modern car, that's why we have a computer and laser system to help make these changes. Pictured is a car on our rack with the sensors on each wheel and the computer screen displaying the desired alignment numbers and current numbers so our technicians know how much adjustment is needed. Why do alignments need to be checked? Because your alignment involves your car’s suspension, steering, wheels and tires there are a lot of moving parts that are regular maintenance items. Such as ball joints, tie rods, and various bearings and bushings. All these items and more are considered wear items and will need to be replaced at regular intervals in your car or truck’s lifetime. Because of this, when they wear, they can start to affect your car’s overall alignment. That's why we recommend an alignment check at least once a year even if you don’t notice an issue yet. Also if you do notice abnormal tire wear or your car starts to pull going down the road etc. Anytime you install new tires we always recommend an alignment to make sure you get as many miles as possible out of your new set of tires. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Warm weather is here, and summer road trips are right around the corner. Tires are THE only part of your car that touches the ground and keeps you going down the road. You could say tires are the most important part of your car or truck. Flat tires are no fun, but another problem is when your tires wear down from normal use, they begin to have less and less traction in rainy or snowy conditions. Luckily we don’t have to worry about snow anytime soon. Wet slippery roads cause millions of accidents across the county. Many of those are from bald tires. We inspect your whole vehicle when you come to Crabtree, Including tires. There are indicators on tires to let you know when it's time for replacement. We will check this for you. When you bring your vehicle to Crabtree we will make a maintenance schedule for you that keeps your car and your wallet happy. This, of course, includes tires. We sell tires for all makes and models! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Which Cummins engine is the best? That is another subjective question. But let's continue with our diesel truck discussion. Like its Powerstroke counterpart, the Cummins engine found in Ram pickups has undergone many changes. Arguably the most famous light-duty diesel, the 12v Cummins first introduced in a Dodge Ram W250 and W350 in 1989, is still heavily used to this day. Cummins designated the engine as a 6BT (6-cylinder B-Series Turbocharged), the first version having one exhaust and one intake valve per cylinder (12v) and using a rotary fuel injection pump (VE) Pump. From there, fuel pump changes, different turbos, better injectors, and eventually electronic controls gets us to modern-day the 6.7 Cummins. It shares the same displacement as the 6.7 powerstroke but that is where the similarities end. Ford, Ram, and Chevrolet all battle for top horsepower and towing capacity bragging rights. A few years back, Ram was the first in the industry to build a pickup able to tow 30,000lbs. Most issues with a 6.7 Cummins come from their emissions equipment required by the EPA. Clean fuel and proper maintenance keep these issues to a minimum. Just like the Powerstroke, we also really like the Cummins Diesel. Several team members here at the shop have even swapped Cummins engines into their Fords. We can take care of all your Cummins needs. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! Including Cummins 😉, So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Well there is probably a leak! The AC system in modern automobiles can get pretty complex but they all have some of the same fundamental components. When a leak occurs it can be extremely hard to find. Thankfully we have some special tools to make that easier. On this 1997 Ford F-250 we had a leak that didn't show up with dye and the leak started all the sudden for the customer. We started by hooking up our AC Servicing Machine to the truck to recover any feon left in the system and then put the system under a vacuum to test for leaks and see how big the leak is. We were able to detect that there was a leak and it was rather large. But with visual inspection we couldn’t find anything. The customer let us know that nearly the entire system had been replaced last year. We then filled the AC system with environmentally safe Nitrogen Gas and used soapy water in a spray bottle to cover all the lines and AC connections. We quickly found the AC compressor to be the culprit. Where the case of the compressor is sealed together had failed and this was evidence by the bubbles around the seam. A new compressor was ordered along with a new AC drier and orfice tube. These are the vital core components of the AC system and should always be replaced together to insure this is no contamination of the new compressor. Once all the new parts are installed, the system in again put under a vacuum and rechecked for leaks. Another reason we put the system under a vacuum is to remove all air and moisture as those 2 things destroy ac components and don’t allow for proper operation. When no leak is detected the AC Servicing Machine starts the process of recharging the system with freon and oil. Finally the truck is started and we check the temperatures coming out of the air vents in the cab. Everything checks out great and the truck is returned to the customer, ready to hit the open road. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

We have a lot going on, just like everyone else 2023 is hectic! So we do several things to help keep the ball rolling and our ducks in a row. One of the reasons we have become one of the Top Shops in the country is that we set goals and plan to get there! In the picture are a bunch of magnets and a whiteboard. Nothing too fancy, but it allows us to plan out everyone's day. That way, we can be as efficient as possible with our tech's time and yours! As always, plans change; for example, if you can't make your appointment after all, that's ok because we can move the jobs around on this board, so there's no wasted time. Goals are an essential part of our culture as well. We are constantly striving to improve our processes and abilities. Keeping track of where we have been and where we are going allows us to build a roadmap to success. We also use a few pieces of software to keep track of your repair progress and notify you of anything we find that may also need attention to keep you safe on the road! We are always looking for A+ Individuals to add to our Team, so if you or someone you know is looking for a great career opportunity, check out our careers page Here or stop in and talk to us. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

That’s highly subjective but lets talk about the Ford Powerstroke. We love the Powerstroke platform here at Crabtree Auto. First introduced as the Powerstroke the 7.3 liter direct injected diesel engine built by International Navistar in 1994.5 was a breakthrough in light duty diesels here in the United States. There was a 6.9 and 7.3 liter diesel prior to 1994 available in Ford F-250’s and F-350 also built by International Navistar these are commonly referred to as IDI’s for their style of fuel injection system In-direct Injection (IDI). While the IDI was an extremely robust engine with very few mechanical failures it was not know for making large amounts of power. It performed similar to the Cummins 5.9 and Detroit 6.5 of the same era. Fast forward many years to the current Powerstroke 6.7 liter and we now have a class leading engine in horse power and torque and the F-Series trucks they can be found in also have class leading towing capacities. A lot has changed since 1995, and keeping up with current technology, EPA regulations, and the competition has turned the 6.7 into an absolute powerhouse. But thats not without some headaches every so often. There are quite a few of us here at Crabtree that own a Powerstroke so we are pretty well accustomed to their behaviors and quirks. Several on the team are factory trained on Powerstroke repair and maintenance. We are the local Powerstroke experts and we are ready to serve anyone with a Powerstroke themselves. Probably the biggest issue with a 6.7 Powerstroke is the fuel system, specifically the fuel injection pump. We won’t get into all the technical details here but the pumps in these trucks are very picky to fuel cleanliness. We have replaced the fuel system in these trucks many times and can get you back on the road in no time. There are several companies that have built parts to help with pump health and to keep the rest of the fuel system safe in case of a pump failure in the future. S&S Diesel has came to market with a replacement pump that fixes all the issues for the factory pump (CP4) we are excited to get our hands on this pump and finally be able to make the 6.7 bulletproof. So don’t be afraid of dropping off your Ford Diesel at Crabtree Auto we’ve worked on them all and have the training to back it up. Even the 6.4, which we will touch on another time! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! Including Powerstrokes 😉, So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Diesel, Why? Why would anyone want or need to drive something other than a gas or electric car or truck? We can’t cover every reason in this post, but here are a few. Diesel fuel is more energy dense than gasoline, making a diesel engine more fuel efficient and powerful than its gasoline counterpart. So for heavy towing in larger trucks, Diesels are able to get the job done easier. And in light trucks and cars, diesels are able to get far better mileage than gasoline. Like with anything in life, there are always trade-offs. Diesel engines typically have a higher cost of maintenance. And in most cases, Diesel fuel costs more than Gas. Diesel isn't for everyone, but other benefits are higher resale value, A longer lifespan, and the higher mile per gallon average more than offsets the higher price at the pump. At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! Including Diesels 😉, So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.

Pre-Register NOW for the 2023 @nobsobstruckshow August 18th and 19th, 2023. T-Shirt Logo by @apocdesi Pre-Registration this year includes: *1-hr Early Bird Access Parking for Saturday - (8-9 am event entry for pre-reg vehicles only, grab a parking spot close!) *Guaranteed 2023 No BS OBS Event T-Shirt - Received day of event, one shirt per vehicle, these sell out quickly! ($25 value) *TWO Raffle Tickets ($20 value) *Show Vehicle Admission Both Days - You will receive your parking pass in the mail prior to the event. ($20 value) *OPTION TO ADD Show N' Shine Event - $20 extra/optional *@carrickcustoms SUSPENSION KIT GIVEAWAY - Exclusive chance to win Carrick Customs Complete OBS D60 Coil Over or TTB Dana 50 Kit with King Coilovers ($5800 Value). Only Pre-Registered guests are eligible to win! Must be present to win Saturday after the Sponsor Raffle. PRE REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED TO ATTEND THE EVENT, BUT YOU WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE LISTED PERKS! Pre-Reg Here: https://obssolutions.net/products/copy-of-3rd-annual-no-bs-obs-truck-show-n-swap?variant=43093721940162 #nobsobstruckshow #truckshow #oregontrucks #obssolutions #obsford #nobsobstruckshow #powerlandheritagepark #cpaddict #skysoffroaddesign #carrickcustoms #desolatemotorsports #wilsonsnapaautoparts #wheelpros #iceboxperformance #scheelmannusa #engineeredvintage

Here are some of the ways that a key drop box can help make your life easier:  Convenience: With a key drop box, you don't have to worry about finding time to return your keys during regular business hours or waiting in line to do so. You can drop off your keys at any time that's convenient for you, whether that's before work, after hours, or on the weekend. Safety: A key drop box provides a secure way to return your keys. Instead of leaving them locked up in your car, you can simply drop them into the box and rest assured that they'll be safe until they're retrieved. Ease of use: Using a key drop box is incredibly simple. Just locate the box, open it up, and drop in your keys. Many key drop boxes are clearly marked and provide instructions for use, so you don't have to worry about any confusion. Speed: With a key drop box, you can retrieve your keys quickly and easily, without any unnecessary delays. This is especially important for contractors or businesses as it can save time and help keep things running smoothly. Overall, a key drop box is a great solution for anyone who needs to drop off or pick up keys. It provides convenience, safety, ease of use, and speed, making it a win-win for both customers and businesses alike. At Crabtree Automotive we work on all makes and models. From Honda’s to Audie’s.

Long road trips, exploring off the beaten path, camping in the middle of nowhere, all things millions of Americans enjoy. The one thing you need is confidence in whatever you drive. You don’t want to get to the perfect camping spot just outside of cell signal just to find out your truck won't start back up. Or stuck in the mud because the 4wd system won't engage. No matter the situation, you don’t want to worry about car trouble. That's why keeping up on maintenance is important, especially traveling away from home. That’s how you can take a 25+ year old truck camping and not worry. You know that everything is working how it’s supposed to. We know things happen and parts fail, but a good maintenance plan and quality replacement parts help to keep these issues to a minimum. We are excited to help with all your automotive needs and strive to make owning your car the best experience possible, no matter what you use it for. We will inspect your car or truck, reference the factory and industry recommended service based on age, mileage, and condition to come up with a service plan that works for you.  At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! Including 25 year old trucks.

Have you heard the news? Investing in your car is now safer than keeping money in the bank 😅 Sorry, I had to, but for real new car prices, fuel prices, Interest rates, all of it is through the roof! Now is the time to keep up the maintenance on your current car or even get an older car you stashed away back on the road. New cars are great, but so is saving money. We can’t do anything about fuel prices, but a well-maintained vehicle will get the best mileage possible; no, a huge truck isn't going to get better mileage than a little car, but that truck can gain several MPG from proper maintenance. Take this recent purchase, a 2012 Ford F-450, needed to tow a large trailer with. It could be purchased cheaply because the previous owner did not take care of it well and it needed a few mechanical repairs. We don’t do paint or bodywork here at Crabtree Auto, but we can handle all the mechanicals of whatever you drive! This massive F-450 was only getting 12 MPG but some work on the front end, new fluids and filters, new tires, and an alignment, along with cleaning up the paint, replacing burned-out bulbs, and getting the interior a good deep clean it's now a respectable truck again, and it gets 17 MPG!!! And all that work cost less than 2 or 3 car payments of a brand new F-450. So don't be afraid to put a little money into your automobile; it can save you literally thousands! We will make it run and drive like new, and a good detail shop like Automotive Studio can make it look new! At Crabtree Automotive, we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda to Audi and everything in between! Including F-450s

Springtime is approaching, and with better weather, Spring Break, and all-around fun times ahead, the last thing you want to deal with is car trouble! Like spring cleaning, your car or truck can benefit from a good cleaning and checkup. The cold, wet, and sometimes snowy winter can be hard on everything, especially for shocks, brakes, and other components under the car. And things like air conditioning don't get much use during the winter, so it's a good idea to ensure it's in top shape. The last thing you want is to be on a warm sunny spring break just to find out it will be a hot drive back home without A/C! A spring inspection, including fresh fluids and filters, will keep the Spring smiles rolling. We are ready to help you get ready for spring! Schedule your spring checkup today. So give us a call or schedule your appointment today.

Tax season. It's a touchy subject no one LIKES Taxes, but for some it means a little extra money to catch up on things like bills and repairs. The extra cash helps with some of those bigger repairs you may have been putting off. Like that annoying oil leak, or the A/C you have been limping along for awhile or a new issue just popped up that you need to address. Or maybe even a new set of tires! We are prepared to help with any car related issues big or small! Call or Click today to schedule your appointment. We also offer maintenance plans to keep your car in the best shape possible at all times At Crabtree Automotive we work on all makes and models, even European. From Honda’s to Audie’s. So give us a call or schedule an appointment today.