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Your vehicle requires a variety of belts and hoses to function properly here in Hardeeville and beyond. At O.C. Welch Lincoln, we wanted to take a minute to talk about some of the more important ones found underneath your hood. Understanding how important these parts are is key to understanding how important their maintenance is.

Your timing belt is crucial. It causes the crankshaft to turn the camshaft in your engine, which in turn opens and closes valves in time with the pistons. If this belt were to break, your vehicle would stop running immediately. 

A transfer case is a part of the vehicle's drivetrain that distributes power to the wheels when you're on slippery surfaces or in low-traction conditions. It is a mechanical device that transfers torque from the engine to the transmission and then to the axles. Transfer cases are designed to allow the driver to select how much torque they want delivered to each axle, which can help with handling and traction.

The transfer case has two main components; a front output shaft and a rear output shaft. 

Every car owner will have a varying level of knowledge when it comes to handling how they know the many details of keeping a vehicle's engine running, especially in regards to the oil that they must change.

Some also believe that a boost can help make everything even better than what is currently provided. One myth claims that additives enhance the performance of a vehicle's engine, and while that may seem true at first glance because of the benefits that additives provide, oil was never meant to add any horsepower to the engine

With your key in acc position, do you have trouble powering the dashboard lights, interior lights, and other components? It may be a sign of a dying ignition switch. Often overlooked, your car’s ignition is essential for getting things functioning in your car and requires constant monitoring and maintenance. Also, since the ignition switch transmits power to crank your car’s starter motor, a failing ignition makes it challenging to start your vehicle.

While getting your key in and out of the ignition may seem routine, it may become difficult to do so when your ignition has problems. 

Fall in New England is one of the most glorious times of the year. The weather is still relatively warm, and the temperatures drop just enough so that the leaves start to turn magnificent colors. If you are seeking a prime opportunity to catch autumn's leaves at their height, a trip in early fall is a must.

Know When to Go

To catch the changing leaves at their height, visiting New England in the first few weeks of September is optimal. Early September brings vivid colors to the leaves and temperatures that are still warm enough for an enjoyable…

You will probably be driving your vehicle at high speed. At this speed, your tire is the only contact the vehicle has with the ground. Therefore, for your safety, the traction offered by the vehicle should be good enough to allow you to drive with confidence.

The performance of your vehicle will be improved when the tires are in good shape. Because of that, you should follow the following tips to keep your tire in good shape:

• Ensure all your tires have the right amount of pressure. Uneven pressure on the tires leads to loss of efficiency and inconsistency in…

The brake pedal will show many different signs when it needs attention and starts to suffer from damage or wear. As a driver, it's important to be aware of when it needs repairs to avoid potential issues that can become more severe.

Check to see if you hear any grinding noises as the brakes are in use. The sounds can also be accompanied by a burning smell coming from the tires. Brake pedals also need attention when they begin to shake or vibrate as you apply pressure. This can be distracting as you spend time operating the car.

You may have been told that you should change your oil once every three months. However, that rule only applies to high-mileage driver. You will not have to change your oil that often if you are a low mileage driver. This means that you only drive 7,500 miles or less per year. It is equivalent to about 40 miles or less per day.

You can find the general recommendation in your owner's manual. It is important to follow the mileage recommendations for oil changes regardless of whether you are a high or low mileage driver. This means that…

Three Simple Steps For Touch Up

Touching up your car's paint job is more simple than you might think.

Here are three simple steps for a successful touchup paint job:

1. Wash Car

Paint won't adhere well to a dusty or oxidized surface. 

For the best touch up results, use a power washer or car wash machine to clean the exterior of the car 

2. Locate Paint Code/Paint

Locate the paint code (inside the door), and purchase the correct paint for your specific vehicle.

At O.C. Welch Lincoln, we want you to be as prepared as possible for situations involving your car, truck, or SUV. Recalls are a fact of vehicle ownership life. The following information will ensure you know what to do if your vehicle is recalled.

A recall is simply a notice sent to registered vehicle owners when there may be a problem with their vehicle. The problem may be a faulty part, an overheating engine, or any other vehicle issue. The critical thing to know about recalls is that they are issued because you and other Hardeeville motorists may be…