Third Coast Auto Group Official Blog
Archive for the ‘Tips and Tricks’ Category
Timing Belt – signs it’s going and when it’s gone
Tuesday, December 5th, 2017
The timing belt, also known as a camshaft belt, is one of the essential pieces of your engine. While some under-hood components can fall apart and it will just make life unpleasant, when the timing belt dies it can actually cause significant damage to your engine. This belt is usually hidden by the engine cover, and it coordinates the cam and crankshaft, and makes sure that your engine cylinders are firing at the right times. When this belt goes, it can throw everything off, and actually deform other engine parts that rely on the timing belt. But how can you know when the timing belt is going? (more…)
What’s the Difference Between Manual and Automatic Transmissions?
Thursday, November 30th, 2017
Differences between manual and automatic transmission
When you are looking for a new car, there are a lot of different things you look at. From the vehicle’s size, to its power levels, design, upkeep (if it’s used), and even its drivetrain. You may have noticed that the sportier models tend to be equipped with manual transmission, while typical family sedans and SUVs generally have automatic. But what’s the difference between these transmissions? What are the benefits of each? Let’s take a closer look!
(more…)Should I put premium or regular gas in my car?
Thursday, November 30th, 2017
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, the engine is a key component. While the wheels and tires may have the most contact with the road, the engine literally keeps everything moving. Whether it’s a four-cylinder or a V-6, it’s important to keep everything in top condition, which can sometimes depend on the fuel that you use. We are going to explore the difference between premium and regular fuel below to answer the question: “Should I put premium or regular gas in my car?”
(more…)What’s the difference between the Chevy Suburban and the Chevy Tahoe?
Friday, November 17th, 2017
When drivers think “Chevy” and “major capability” their minds probably jump first to the classic Chevy Silverado truck. While we do have several attractive trucks like the Silverado in our inventory, two other Chevy models currently in our inventory that can deliver serious towing, hauling, and transportation options are the Chevy Suburban and Chevy Tahoe. Both of these SUVs can offer enough seating for a growing family, or can deliver towing and hauling options. But what’s the difference between the Chevy Suburban and the Chevy Tahoe? (more…)
What’s the Difference Between Automatic Transmission and CVT?
Thursday, October 26th, 2017
Automatic Transmission vs Continuously Variable Transmission
The general understanding of most drivers is that you have two choices when it comes to the transmission in your vehicle. The differences between those two are obvious, in that one of them requires the driver to personally switch gears themselves. However, in recent years, many car models have begun adopting a continuously variable transmission system. While it is also a variation on automatic transmission, what it is the difference between them? Read more for an automatic transmission vs continuously variable transmission comparison.
(more…)What is the difference between all-wheel and 4×4 drive?
Wednesday, October 25th, 2017
While we’ve already tackled the differences and advantages of rear-wheel drive vs front-wheel drive, today we want to look at something a little different. While most cars on the road (and the majority of vehicles in our used vehicle inventory here at Third Coast Auto Group) are two-wheel drive models, drivetrains that send power to more than two wheels have plenty of positives, especially in bad weather or rough terrain. What is the difference between all-wheel and 4×4 drive? Keep reading for a few highlights. (more…)
What’s the difference between Chevy and GMC brands?
Tuesday, October 17th, 2017
When you go looking for a truck or crossover vehicle, you may come across plenty of Chevrolet and GMC models. Both of these brands exist under the umbrella of GM (General Motors) along with Buick and Cadillac. Moreover, if you compare similar models in these two brands (for example, the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra light-duty, full-size trucks) then the mechanical similarities are huge. Are they really the same vehicle with different branding? What’s the difference between Chevy and GMC brands? Learn more in this blog.
(more…)Basic Fall Car Care Tips
Monday, October 2nd, 2017
While here in Austin we aren’t going to get the intense ice and snow you can see in the northern part of the country, fall still marks the changing of the seasons, and the slow transition into winter. Regular car maintenance can be important all the time, but when it changes from summer to fall is a great time to take a little more care. Following a few basic fall car care tips is a great way to extend the life of your vehicle, If you are wondering “How should I get my car ready for winter?”, check out our overview below. (more…)
What are the advantages of traffic circles?
Wednesday, September 20th, 2017
Roundabouts, also called traffic circles, aren’t that common in Austin TX. However, these circular intersections are becoming more and more popular. According to one study, roundabouts decreased traffic delays by 20 percent. In a study of intersections that had changed from a traditional stop light to a roundabout, the traffic circle reduced the overall number of collisions by an estimated 37 percent, and dropped fatal collisions by up to 90 percent. That’s a huge drop in driving accidents! But how should you drive in a roundabout? We have step by step instructions. (more…)
What can make your car shake? High speed and low speed suggestions
Thursday, September 14th, 2017
While there are plenty of warning signs for many car problems (weird noises, weirder smells, dashboard warning lights) one of the most disturbing signs of something going wrong is shaking. Whether it happens at high speeds or low speeds, this is a pretty clear sign that something is out of wack. But what can make your car shake? There can be a lot of causes, but the most common issues have to do with your tires or brakes. Keep reading for a better idea of some problems.
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