Services & Resources

Starting and Charging stuff

How does a car's Starting System work?

The starting system is composed of an electric starter motor and a starter solenoid. The starter solenoid is the electrical switch, activated by the ignition system when you turn the key, which engages the starter motor. The starter motor essentially spins the engine a few times so the combustion process can begin.

How does a car's Charging System work?

The automobile's charging system consists of three primary components; the battery, alternator and the voltage regulator. The battery supplies electrical power for your vehicle while starting and during periods of high electrical loads. It also acts as a shock absorber for the electrical system by smoothing out any voltage spikes before they get to the computer.

The alternator and voltage regulator provides power to the vehicle while the engine is running and maintains the batteries charge. The voltage regulator monitors the battery's state of charge and directs the alternator to recharge the battery as necessary.

What effect does extreme cold have on my battery?

Cold temperatures severely reduce the effectiveness of chemical reactions within the battery and increase the battery's internal resistance. As the temperature drops, so does the battery's cranking power. Cars also require additional cranking power in cold weather since the motor oil is thicker, making the engine harder to turn over. Weak batteries are also susceptible to freezing, which damages internal components and containers.

What effect does extreme heat have on my battery?

Heat is the primary cause of battery failure. Heat causes the water in the battery's electrolyte to evaporate and causes the positive plate grids to corrode more rapidly.

How often should I replace my battery?

Battery life varies from vehicle to vehicle and is based on a variety of factors. They are manufactured to last anywhere from two to five years, but exposure to heat, vibration and malfunctioning components of your vehicle'selectrical system can shorten the batteries useful life.

Whether you are having problems starting your car or have questions about batteries, solenoids and regulators, stop by your local Tuffy Auto Service Center today for a complete starting and charging evaluation!

Brake Check

Your vehicle is an extension of your body, with steering, brakes and power responding to your movement. As your body's physical changes occur gradually, so do changes in your vehicle. Drivers hardly notice a minor irregularity in braking action, for example, until it becomes serious. As we subconsciously compensate for a slight pull to one side when the brakes are applied, we may become so accustomed to the pull that we are unaware of deteriorating performance.

Be Car Care Aware and don't take your brakes for granted. If an emergency were to arise on the interstate when you were driving 65 mph chances are you would travel 70 feet before your foot hit the brake pedal. Then, you'd go another 250 feet before stopping, even on a dry road with good tires and brakes!

That should be reason enough for a periodic brake inspection by a trained technician.


Ms. Tuffy sign

Checklist

Vehicle System or Part Check Weekly Check Monthly Check Every 2 Months Special Note
Air Filter     X

Check the air filter every other month. Replace it when it's dirty or as part of a tune-up. It's easy to reach, right under the big metal "lid", in a carbureted engine; or in a rectangular box at the forward end of the air hose duct assembly.
Antifreeze X    

Check the antifreeze/coolant level weekly. Some cars have transparent reservoirs with level markings. Fill to level marking with 50/50 solution of antifreeze and water. Caution: Do not remove the pressure cap when engine is hot!
Battery      

Use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. Do not smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery and always wear protective glasses and gloves. Have it checked with every oil change. Cables should be attached securely and be free of corrosion. If battery has filler holes, add only clear odorless drinking water.
Belts   X  

Inspect belts monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts. Tighten them when more than ½% of slack can be depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt tensioners require no adjustment.
Brake Fluid   X  

Check brake fluid monthly. First, wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid or unscrew plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If you need fluid, add the approved type and check for possible leaks throughout the system. Fill to mark on reservoir. Caution: Do Not Overfill!
Engine Oil      

Check oil every other time you fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Exhaust      

Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace rusted or damaged parts. Have emission checked at least once per year for compliance with local laws.
Hoses   X  

Inspect hoses monthly. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or too hard, it should be replaced.
Lights      

Be sure all your lights are clean and working, including brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your vehicle.
Oil Filter      

To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Power Steering Fluid   X  

Check power steering fluid level once per month. Simply remove the reservoir dipstick. If the level is low, add fluid and inspect the pump and hoses for leaks.
Shock Absorbers      

Look for signs of oil seepage on shock absorbers, test shock action by bouncing the car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always replace shock absorbers in pairs.
Tires   X  

Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure (it helps to own your own gauge). Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tires are misaligned or out of balance. Keep a record of tire rotation. Rotate at the first 5,000 miles and every 75,000 miles thereafter.
Transmission Fluid   X  

Check transmission fluid monthly with engine warm and running, and parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert and remove it again. If level is low, add the approved type of fluid. Caution: Do Not Overfill!
Washer Fluid      

Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades. In the winter months, pay attention to the freezing point of the washer fluid.
Wiper Blades      

Inspect windshield wiper blades whenever you clean your windshield. Do not wait until rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. Wiper blades should be replaced at least once per year, and more often if smearing or chattering occurs.