Important Car Maintenance You Can Do Yourself

Posted on March 19, 2021 by Zores

Not all car maintenance requires the professional attention and acumen of a licensed automotive mechanic. There are actually many services a car owner can do themselves to achieve optimal driving performance and vehicular longevity.

Continue reading to learn which routine automotive maintenance jobs you can do all on your own and how!

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The Benefits of Do-It-Yourself Car Care

Handling routine maintenance on your own, rather than outsourcing professional auto service, can save a driver up to $150 or more each year. This may seem like a nominal figure, but it certainly adds up year after year. And who wouldn’t want an extra couple hundred dollars in their wallet for the weekend? Performing your own vehicular maintenance on the areas of your car that are DIY-Approved can save drivers time and money. It is vital to only perform car maintenance that does not require the tools and training of a professional mechanic.

Here is a DIY-APPROVED car maintenance checklist to keep your car safe and running smoothly:

► Coolant

Without coolant, your car’s engine would be in pretty bad shape. In fact, it would fail to operate entirely after a short amount of time without coolant. Also called radiator fluid, coolant is imperative for the operation and performance of any vehicle. It prevents the inner workings of a car engine from overheating as a result of constant friction and heat production. If you have an overheating engine, the number one cause is lack of radiator fluid. Simply purchase a bottle or two at your local automotive store, locate the coolant cap beneath your hood, and pour the solution right in!

► Headlights

Did you know you can change a burnt-out headlight all on your own? It’s true and not many car owners know it! Since this can get you a traffic ticket or worse, cause an accident, a burnt-out headlight is an immediate repair. And since you don’t need to make an appointment with an auto shop, you can get this problem repaired right away. All you need is a basic tool set and a new bulb!

► Windshield Wiper Fluid

It may seem trivial, but windshield wiper fluid is one of the 7 essential car fluids every vehicle requires for functional operation and safety. And you can re-fill your windshield wiper fluid any time it runs low. Simply purchase a bottle of windshield fluid and pour it down the correct tube under your car’s hood. Do this as often as you need to, keeping in mind that you will probably need to do this more often in winter.

Do you have a roadside car emergency in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour tow truck and roadside assistance services you can afford. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Lebanon, Greenwood, and Avon areas.

You Should Read:

Why is My Car Engine Overheating?
What You Need to Know About Changing Your Car’s Oil
How to Tell if Your Car Needs Alternator Replacement

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DIY Roadside Assistance Tools to Always Have in Your Car

Posted on February 12, 2021 by Zores

With the weather being the way it is right now, it is important to drive safe no matter how short your travel distance may be. Here in Indiana, this time of year is marked with snow, ice, slush, mud, and more, making the road conditions more hazardous than normal. In order to keep yourself protected in the time of an automotive emergency, be sure to have a quality roadside assistance kit in your car at all times.

If a full roadside kit is not an option for you, at least have these fundamental roadside assistance tools on hand for do-it-yourself fixes.

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Have These in Your Car at All Times for a Roadside Emergency:

► Tire Pressure Gauge

Tire pressure is an important part of proper vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Fortunately, it is something you can easily check and fix on your own. It is important to regularly check your tire pressure levels, and the best tool for the job is a basic tire pressure gauge. You can buy a quality tire pressure gauge at any local automotive store for under $10. The general rule of thumb for tire pressure is anywhere from 32 to 35 psi, depending on the climate. Check your owner’s manual for the proper specifications for your vehicle, or look for a sticker on the inside of your driver’s door.

► Torque Wrench

When you need to fasten a nut or bolt, a torque wrench is a handy tool to have around. From tire changes to battery replacement, there many DIY opportunities that would call for a torque wrench. Since they come in all different setups and sizes, it is recommended to get an interchangeable torque wrench, or one that allows for several size settings. There are three main types: flex bar, sound-indicating, and dial indicator. You can find quality torque wrenches at any local hardware or automotive store for under $20.

► Jumper Cables

When your car is low on power, you will need to jump start the battery. And there is no better way to do this than to use a set of jumper cables. Jumper cables are a staple in any automotive care kit. Keep them in your vehicle at all times in case of an emergency. You can purchase a quality set at any local hardware of automotive parts store for under $30. You may want to consider purchasing them in a pre-made emergency roadside kit.

► Automotive Code Reader

These little devices have come a long way in terms of innovation and accuracy. They hook up to your vehicle and will read, interpret, and clear Check Engine and ABS lights. You can now purchase electronic car reading diagnostic devices on the market at an affordable price. There are several different makes and models, all ranging in features and price. You can get a quality car reader for under $100 at any local automotive parts store.

Central Indiana Towing and Recovery Professionals You Can Count On 24 Hours a Day

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and recovery wrecker services in Indianapolis, and all throughout Central Indiana. We serve more than 30 additional Indiana towns and cities throughout the state, and maintain a wide dispatching grid so that we can uphold speedy response times. Whether you need help with a flat tire or fuel fill up, or have just been in an auto accident and need clearance towing, we are the licensed and insured wreckers who can be there for you.

Having served the surrounding Hoosier communities for nearly 100 years, you can trust that we are the experts who can get the job done right the first time, and at an affordable price. Request a free quote, or contact us for emergency tow truck or roadside assistance service, anytime. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

3 Things You Should Not Do if Your Car Gets Stuck in Snow

Posted on January 18, 2021 by Zores

Just as every Indiana winter promises, the snow has arrived, and commuters everywhere are sliding all over the road. If you find yourself stuck in snow like so many other drivers to this time of year, you are not out of luck. There are plenty of things you can do to get unstuck from a snowy ditch or pileup. However, there are also things you should NEVER do, as they can put you and your vehicle in grave danger, and they simply do not work. Instead, all they do is exert your energy and add more frustration to the cause.

Continue reading to learn what you should not do if your car gets stuck in the snow, and the one thing that always works every time.

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Car Stuck in Snow? DON’T TRY THIS:

☒ Do Not Rock Your Car

You have seen it in the movies, and perhaps even in real life, but it will not work out well for you. When stuck in snow, do not try to drive and reverse over and over again in attempt to “rock” your vehicle out of its stuck position. Not only does this waste enormous amount of gas, but it also creates a massive fume cloud that can be distracting or obstructive to passing drivers. Furthermore, it can put strain on your transmission, deplete your car of its essential fluids, and even kill the battery.

☒ ☒ Do Not Get Out and Push

One of the most dangerous things you can do to free your car from snow is to try to push it from the front or from behind. You might be thinking, “well I can’t get hit by a car if I am in the middle of nowhere.” But this is dangerous for other reasons other than the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle. You see, cars can instantly release when you are not expecting it to, and roll over whoever is in the way. Even if you are not near a busy road, you can still get run over by your own vehicle if you try this method.

☒ ☒ ☒ Do Not Floor the Gas

A common reaction for anyone who’s car is stuck in snow is to stomp on the gas pedal. But this is not the right choice. Just like rocking your car back and forth, you are putting unnecessary strain on your engine, fuel system, and internal hardware. Not only can this cause costly damage, but it can also be very dangerous. You do not want to jolt out of your stuck position suddenly, and possibly into oncoming traffic, or worse, a person. This happens more often than you think.

✨ Safe Ways to Pull a Car Out of a Ditch

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance is the Key to Get Your Car Un-Stuck

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

Suggested Cars and Trucks with High Towing Capacities

Posted on August 26, 2020 by Zores

If you need to tow a heavy load, an extra-large trailer, or something equally as big or hefty, it is vital that you use the appropriate vehicle for the job. Tow capacity can range anywhere from a few thousand pounds to six tons or more. It is important to know what your vehicle can handle in order to determine whether or not you need to find a different car or truck for a substantial tow. Cars, trucks, and SUV’s are all options, but for larger jobs, SUV’s and trucks are your best bet. They typically have the higher towing capacities and capabilities.

Continue reading to learn what the towing limits are for some popular make and model vehicles on the market today.

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Gross Vehicle Weight and Towing Limits

To calculate your vehicle’s tow limit, you must first determine its gross vehicle weight rating, or GVW. This number can often times be found on a label inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual. Take the GVW and add it to the total weight of the trailer or load you intend to tow. This will give you the GCW, or gross combination weight of your truck. This number should not exceed the GCWR, or gross combination weight rating. This is the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can haul without jeopardizing the integrity of the transmission, brakes, suspension, engine, tires, and more.

High Towing Capacity Vehicles to Consider

If you are in the market for a new truck or SUV with a high hauling capacity, take a look at the following list for current market options for conventional ball and hitch towing. Keep in mind that these particular make and model vehicles come in a variety of cab styles, sizes, engines, and additional features and upgrades.

Ford Trucks:

F-450 DRW 4×4 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 = Up to 19,000 lbs.
F-350 DRW 4×4 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 = Up to 19,000 lbs.
F-250 SRW 4×4 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 = Up to 14,000 lbs.

Dodge Trucks:

Ram 3500 = Up to 11,900 lbs.
Ram 2500 = Up to 11,800 lbs.
Ram 1500 = Up to 9,000 lbs.

GMC Trucks:

Sierra 3500HD = Up to 13,000 lbs.
Sierra 2500HD = Up to 13,000 lbs.
Sierra 1500HD = Up to 8,000 lbs.

Chevrolet Trucks:

Silverado 3500HD = Up to 13,000 lbs.
Silverado 2500HD = Up to 13,000 lbs.
Silverado 1500HD = Up to 8,000 lbs.

⚠ Never exceed your car or truck’s towing capacity! Consult a professional Indianapolis Indiana wrecker company for accurate information and advice on gross vehicle weights and guidelines.

Central Indiana Towing and Recovery Service You Can Truly Count On

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for safe and affordable Indianapolis tow truck services you can trust. Our licensed and insured tow truck operators provide punctual and prompt tow truck services, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week! We also provide numerous community services, roadside assistance services, wrecker and recovery services, and much more. Call 317-247-8484 to request a free estimate, anytime!

Fuel Efficiency Myths You Need to Know

Posted on May 29, 2020 by Zores

Remember are blog from December about making better gas mileage your 2020 new years’ resolution? Well, how have you done so far? Are you still not happy with your fuel saving efforts? If so, perhaps you, like so many others, have fallen victim to some common fuel efficiency misconceptions.

Continue below to learn the top gas mileage myths circulating through the industry, and perhaps improve your fuel efficiency results!

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Top 5 Gas Mileage Misconceptions:

“Small Cars Get Better Fuel Mileage”

Size has nothing to do with fuel efficiency. Everything under the hood, the materials used to manufacture the vehicle, and proper maintenance are what make vehicles fuel-efficient. Advancements in technology that promote better fuel economy include diesel engines, turbochargers, hybrid drive trains, and low-rolling resistance tires.

“Manual Transmissions Get Better Gas Mileage”

Although true in the past, new advancements in automatic-transmission technology has made this a modern-day myth. More gears have led to less wasted fuel and much more. Whether you choose manual or automatic, fuel efficiency will not be comprised by this decision.

“Old Cars Get Poor Gas Mileage”

A vehicle is really only as old as its engine. And so long as the engine is properly maintained over the years of ownership and use, the gas mileage should not be affected. In fact, there is a vehicle “break-in” period (the first 5,000 miles or so) where the fuel efficiency actually improves, rather than declines!

“Replacing the Air Filter Will Jump-Kick Fuel Economy”

If your car has an older engine with a carburetor still, then this myth is a little true. But fuel economy for modern fuel-injected cars and trucks is not influenced by a singular filter change. Fuel-injected engines delivers lower emissions and improved fuel economy. An onboard computer automatically adjusts the fuel-flow depending on the amount of air entering the engine.

“Premium Fuel Will Improve Gas Mileage”

This will just end up being a waste of money. Premium fuel does not equal better fuel economy. In fact, using a higher-octane fuel will not alter vehicle performance at all. Only use premium gas if your vehicle’s owners’ manual suggests to; otherwise, stick to unleaded.

Are You Out of Gas in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for friendly 24 hour roadside assistance, including fuel fill-ups, in Indianapolis, or throughout Central Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! Request free estimates, anytime.

Common Warning Signs of Failing Car Brakes

Posted on April 23, 2020 by Zores

Properly functioning car brakes are vital when it comes to safe driving. When your brakes need repaired, never hesitate to get them fixed. A single moment of traction loss could mean hospital time or worse. Worn out brakes is not a situation to be taken lightly. As soon as you know your brakes are not in optimal condition, have your car towed to a trusted mechanic for inspection and repair.

Continue reading to learn the common signs that indicate your car brakes are failing, and it’s time to pull over and call a tow truck.

How to Detect Failing Car or Truck Brakes

There are a number of signs that foreshadow brake repair, and the most common ones are the easiest to detect. When you are driving, do you feel the steering wheel shake? A steering wheel that wiggles could be a sign of brake problems. If the steering wheel jiggles back and forth every time you come to a stop, then this is a sign of worn out brake rotors. Brake rotors don’t need to be changed as often as brake pads, but should still be replaced every few years. It is suggested to have your brake rotors changed every three times your brake pads are replaced.

When it comes to brake pads, another observable sign of brake damage is high pitched squeaking. When your car squeals anytime you apply pressure to the brake pedal, this could be an indication of bad brake pads. The squeaking sound comes from a piece on the actual brake pad that gets exposed once the pad is worn down enough. When this indicator is exposed, it’s time to replace the pads. To be safe, they should be changed within two to three weeks, otherwise you could fail to make a stop at any moment.

If you begin to notice it takes more time to come to a complete stop in your vehicle, this means you have worn through the indicators on the brake pads. This is another common sign of brake malfunction. This is a serious sign that requires immediate attention. It is extremely dangerous to drive with brakes this bad, especially in bad weather.

⚠ If you begin to notice any signs that are similar to the ones just discussed, then immediately pull over to a safe spot and call a 24 hour two truck company for emergency roadside assistance towing. Never risk your life or someone else’s by driving on unreliable brakes!

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance Towing Services You Can Count On

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

Did Your Car Just Break Down in Indianapolis, IN?

Posted on April 17, 2012 by Zores

What Should I Do When My Car Breaks Down on the Road?

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Hopefully, while driving, your car will hint to you that there is a problem. If this is the case, then you have a tiny bit of forewarning to start getting on the right side of the road in case you need to pull over and stop. This goes especially for highway driving. When you’re pulling your car off to the side of the road because you are hearing or feeling something abnormal, follow these safety tips:

Attempt to roll or coast along the shoulder of the road or highway, avoiding turns and curves in the road behind you. That way, oncoming traffic will see you in advance and have time to react and drive around you. This also helps when you are ready to get back on the road, you can see the oncoming traffic too.

Let’s say your engine dies directly in the middle of the highway. What do you do? Well, you DO NOT GET OUT OF THE CAR! It is very dangerous to get out of your car on a busy highway.

Even if the road seems remote, you never know what’s going to come flying out of nowhere. It is important to remain safe. Every feels embarrassed and anxious when your car is dead in the middle of the road and there is traffic piling up behind you, but there is no other option when it comes to safety. You have to remain on your car until help arrives. Trying to cross a busy highway on foot is basically suicide.

Now, if it is dark outside, keep your interior light on so that you are able to be seen by oncoming traffic. If the vehicle is still operating, keep the engine on so that you don’t juice out the battery from keeping the lights on.

The good thing is, most busy highways are heavily patrolled by local police officials and they will more than likely spot you and come to your aid if you don’t have a phone to contact help.

Safety Tips for When Your Car Breaks Down:

So, whether you are stuck in traffic, or parked along the shoulder of the road, always remember these safety tips:

1. Roll a piece of white cloth or paper in your driver’s side window to signal you need help. Be sure you roll the window back up and secure that cloth or paper in its place.

2. Use your cell phone to contact family, your auto insurance, or a local and professional towing company to come to your assistance. If you are not carrying a phone, look to see if there is an emergency call box near your vehicle, it is not safe to get out, but if it is close, try to safely reach it and contact help. Always get right back into the car after using a call box. Keep the doors locked and continue waiting for help. If there is no call box that you can see, do not try to walk down the road and find one, just remain in your car with the white cloth and wait for highway patrol to stop and help you. They will see you, it is their job!

3. If it’s a flat tire or something you can work on yourself, never do these adjustments on the side that’s exposed to busy traffic. IF you can, try to drive the car a little more off the road so that you may reach the side that needs fixed, without being exposed to the traffic.

4. If it is daytime, turn on your hazard lights to warm oncoming traffic. Do not do this at night, it can cause another accident.

5. If it is nighttime, when traffic dies down, quickly place emergency triangles and warning light around your car if you have an emergency car kit. This will warn people that you are broken down and to avoid running into you. If you don’t have an emergency car kit, just keep your interior lights on, but keep your engine running as well if you do this so your battery doesn’t die. If your car engine can’t run, go ahead and keep your interior lights on anyway because it’s safer.

6. Always keep in mind that you are more protected when you are carry a cell phone, and have a road-side assistance company protecting you on the road. Otherwise, a trusting tow company can do all the things road-side assistance can do for you, and usually at a better cost.

Towing in Indianapolis

Zore’s Towing Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Zores Towing can offer you exceptional and speedy roadside assistance 24 hours a day in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our new Indiana towing press release. Call us for help if your car breaks down in Indianapolis, IN at 317-247-8484, or visit our website at https://www.zorestowing.com today.

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