Archive for the ‘Technology’ Category

Learn All About: Cylinder Deactivation and Fuel Economy

Friday, January 26th, 2018
the words Explore the Advantages of Cylinder Deactivation with a V-6 EcoTec3 engine from Chevrolet in 2014

If you are looking for a new or used truck, or are exploring some of the latest new engine options in vehicles ranging from heavy-duty pickups to midsize sedans, you may be seeing the term “cylinder deactivation” bandied about. But what is cylinder deactivation? And how does it help drivers get better gas mileage? Explore the advantages and disadvantages of cylinder deactivation in this blog! (more…)

Why are there so many speeds on an automatic transmission?

Monday, January 22nd, 2018
person changing gears in a car, seen from the level of the gear shifter

In the past we’ve talked about the differences between a manual and an automatic transmission. For the manual, you get that visceral feeling of changing gears, and the effort to find the perfect one for every driving situation. Automatic transmissions take that challenge away. But that begs the question why we have more than drive, park, reverse and neutral on an automatic transmission. When do you use gear two or three when driving an automatic? We’re going to look at a few of the answers to these questions below. (more…)

What’s the Difference Between Manual and Automatic Transmissions?

Thursday, November 30th, 2017
A woman driving a vehicle

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
Car fueling at a gas station

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 Automatic Transmission and CVT?

Thursday, October 26th, 2017
Side view of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLA250

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
Cars during snowfall

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…)

Engine, and motor, and battery, oh my! Hybrid Powertrains 101

Friday, September 15th, 2017
Side view of the 2017 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Electric and hybrid cars are all the rage these days. More and more manufacturers are starting to produce them and there are multiple different types. But how does a hybrid engine work? The science and technology that goes into an hybrid vehicle is fairly interesting, and looking at it can give you a better idea of what is available in the automotive market today (and what it might mean for car buyers).

(more…)

Has your key fob stopped working? Try replacing the battery

Friday, September 8th, 2017
A man using key fob to open gate

One of the great advantages of modern cars is the keyless entry that is available thanks to key fobs. Whether your vehicle has automatic unlocking doors and pushbutton start, or you can just lock the doors from a few feet away, key fobs can be a huge benefit. But sometimes when these lovely devices stop working, it can be a huge hassle (and expensive to get one replaced). However, if you have been using the same key for a long time, you may not have an issue with the hardware, it may just be running out of power. But how do you replace the battery in a car key fob?

(more…)

Is a V-6 engine better than a four-cylinder engine?

Wednesday, June 28th, 2017
2017 Ford F-150 on road

When it comes to getting a car, there are a lot of factors to take into account: price, features, front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, and efficiency are just a few. But one of the most important questions is how the engine will perform. Two of the most common types of engines are V-6 models and four-cylinder models. V-6 models have historically been popular for the power they provide, but is a V-6 engine better than a four-cylinder engine? Both options bring different strengths and weaknesses to the road. Keep reading for some of the pros and cons of V-6 and four-cylinder engines.

(more…)

Ford SmartLink Infotainment Update: No Installation Needed

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017
Front view of the 2017 Ford Explorer

How To Upgrade Used Ford With SYNC 3

Good news, everyone! You can now update your Ford SYNC infotainment features with Ford SmartLink. Do you own a Ford vehicle made after 2010? Did you miss SYNC 3 by one year? You are not alone! Many drivers have faced frustration in this area, missing out on features that seam as simple as a software update like the ones Tesla vehicles get regularly. This problem is now a thing of the past with Ford SmartLink. (more…)