Third Coast Auto Group Official Blog
Archive for the ‘Tips and Tricks’ Category
Is flat-towing illegal in Texas?
Saturday, March 7th, 2020
Texas Flat-Towing Laws and Requirements
Flat-towing, also known as dinghy towing, is a popular way to take an extra vehicle along on a journey. The method is often performed with an RV by individuals who want to bring their own ride along on their camping journey.
However, each state has different regulations regarding flat-towing, and they should all be followed when one drives through that state. What are the flat-towing laws in Texas? Is the practice even legal?
(more…)What are the best ways to take care of my car?
Wednesday, February 19th, 2020
Car Care and Maintenance FAQs Video Compilation
Wondering what you should know to be a smart car owner? Courtesy of Consumer Reports, we’ve compiled six videos detailing some main points of knowledge to store away in your brain. Check them out below to bring a dose of improvement to your car owning experience.
(more…)Should I check my oil when the engine is hot or cold?
Monday, February 10th, 2020
Ideal Engine Temperature for Oil Check
Oil is a very important part of an automobile, as it lubricates the machinery inside so that everything can stay in healthy motion. In order to ensure your vehicle has enough of this precious slippery juice in its system, it’s a good idea to check one’s oil from time to time. In fact, Consumer Reports recommends doing so at every other fuel-stop.
But different opinions abound on the exact conditions that oil should be checked in. One area that seems “hotly” debated is the ideal engine temperature. Should you check your oil with a hot or cold engine?
(more…)Can you use regular gas in a flex-fuel vehicle?
Thursday, January 30th, 2020
Flex-fuel vehicles, or FFVs, are optimized to be able to run on special ethanol- and methanol-based fuels. But what happens if you put regular gasoline in the tank? Can regular gas be used in a flex-fuel vehice?
(more…)Is crude oil used in cars?
Monday, January 20th, 2020
Crude Vs. Motor Oil
You may hear the word “crude oil” batted around the news from time to time. “Crude oil was spilled here,” or “the prices of crude oil are rising there.” What exactly is crude oil? Is this the same oil that we use in our automobiles?
(more…)How do I attach new windshield wipers?
Wednesday, January 15th, 2020
Windshield Wiper Attachment Instructions
Like headlights, brakes, tires, and many other parts of the automobile, windshield wipers are a necessity that often go taken for granted until they break down. When this sad state of affairs occurs, it’s time to replace your windshield wipers and attach new ones. A service shop can certainly do this for you, but a fair amount of labor costs can be saved by doing it yourself.
How does one replace and attach new windshield wipers on their vehicle?
(more…)Are the left and right windshield wipers the same?
Friday, January 10th, 2020
If your driver-side windshield wiper brakes, one temporary solution could be to put your passenger-side wiper over onto the driver side. Is this possible? Are left and right windshield wipers the same, or are there differences between them?
(more…)What’s the Difference Between Soft Touch and Touch-Free Car Washes?
Tuesday, December 31st, 2019
Soft Touch vs Touch-Free Car Washes
Have you ever heard horror stories about local car washes leaving scratches on vehicles and decided then and there to avoid ever going near it? Or maybe you prefer to wash your vehicle at home but would like a more convenient wash option as well. This guide is going to breakdown the pros and cons of both soft touch and touch-free car washes to help you find the wash that is right for you and your vehicle. Check out the info below before letting a friend’s horror story keep you out of your local car wash. (more…)
How fast can you drive in Texas?
Monday, December 30th, 2019
What is the fastest legal speed limit in Texas
If you’re a big fan of driving fast, you’re in the right place. The federal speed limit cap of 55 mph was repealed back in 1995, and since then, most states have chosen to set their own standards for what is an acceptable speed. Texas was one of those that upped their speed limit by quite a bit. Find out what the fastest speed limit is here in Texas and where you can go to ride it out! (more…)
How to change your oil fast
Friday, December 27th, 2019
One of the most common maintenance needs is an oil change. Oil changes are recommended every six months or every 5,000 – 7,500 miles, whichever happens first. Those costs can add up over time, so if you’re looking to save a little extra money, it may be in your best interest to try changing the oil yourself. Take a look at the short video here on our blog to learn how to change the oil in your car fast and efficiently! (more…)