Chico Auto Repair

Tire rotation is one of the most straightforward and affordable services you can get for your vehicle, yet it’s often overlooked or postponed. Many drivers assume that as long as their tires look fine, there's no need to rotate them. In reality, routine tire rotation has a big impact on the life and safety of your tires and your car as a whole. Your tires don’t all wear out at the same rate. Depending on your vehicle’s drivetrain, alignment, and driving habits, some tires endure more pressure and friction than others. Rotation ensures that wear is spread more evenly across all four tires, resulting in improved performance and maximizing the value of your investment. 1. Longer Tire Life Each wheel position places different demands on the tire. On front-wheel drive vehicles, for example, the front tires handle the majority of the steering and braking forces, which causes them to wear more quickly. If the tires aren’t rotated, those front ti ... read more

Feeling your car shake when you press the gas pedal is a clear sign that something isn’t right. This kind of vibration usually points to a mechanical or driveline issue, and if left unchecked, it can lead to more serious problems in the future. The good news is that most causes of acceleration-related shaking are well understood and can be diagnosed quickly by a qualified technician. Here’s a breakdown of the most common reasons your car might shake during acceleration and why it’s important to fix them. Worn or Damaged CV Axles If you drive a front-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle, constant velocity (CV) axles transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. These axles have flexible joints that allow them to move with the suspension and steering. Over time, the CV joints can wear out, especially if the protective rubber boots tear and let in dirt and moisture. When a CV joint begins to fail, you might feel a rhythmic vibration or hear clickin ... read more