Category Archives: Tips and Tricks

traffic brake lights on of vehicles

How to Tell When You Need to Get Your Brakes Replaced

Signs You Need New Brakes

Our vehicles have many parts that help them run smoothly and efficiently. These parts need to be changed, fixed, or flushed regularly to ensure that they work properly. One of the most important parts to get changed regularly is the brakes. If these get worn down or broken, it can lead to more problems and is a safety concern. In this post, we will be teaching you how to read the signs that you need new brakes.

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orange vest reflective triangle and fire extinguisher

What Emergency Items Should You Keep in Your Car?

Auto Emergency Items Checklist

If you are a new driver or you just bought a car for the first time, you’re probably unsure of what you should always have on hand. Anything can happen while on the road, so you should always have a supply of emergency items in your trunk or cargo area. Check out our list of auto emergency items checklist to ensure you are ready for all emergencies.

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person cleaning rust off a vehicle

How to repair a rust spot on your vehicle

Here at Third Coast Auto, we want to ensure you’re taking great care of the vehicles we sell you so that we see you a few years down the road still enjoying your ride. One way we do that is to share occasional tips and tricks on how to keep your vehicle well-maintained. One aspect to consider is the rust that builds up. While this isn’t usually a catastrophic issue, it detracts from the vehicle’s appeal and can impact its resale value. Take a look at the article below to learn how to repair a rust spot on your vehicle!

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flat tire on a generic vehicle

How to Change a Tire: A Step-by-Step Guide for Drivers

Simple Steps to Change a Tire and Stay Road-Ready

Getting a flat tire can be stressful, but knowing the basics helps you stay confident on the road. At Third Coast Auto Group in Austin, TX, drivers are encouraged to learn simple maintenance skills that can save time and keep trips on track. Changing a tire is easier than it sounds when you follow the right steps and stay focused on safety. Read the rest of this entry >>

A mechanic toils away on an old drivetrain.

Is my transmission going bad?

How to tell if your transmission is going bad

Like any automotive-related failure, your transmission will exhibit warning signs that it is failing or starting to malfunction. The longer you wait to address the issue, the more damage you may incur and the more money you’ll have to spend to get it fixed. That being said, there are several signs that indicate your transmission is malfunctioning. Learn more below! Read the rest of this entry >>

man and woman looking at tires

Tips to make your tires last longer

How can I make my tires last longer?

If you’ve ever had to purchase new tires before, you probably already know that they can get pretty expensive. Tires can range in durability and quality, but regardless, a new set of tires might be a bit taxing on your wallet. With that in mind, it probably makes sense to do everything in your power to conserve them as long as possible. Check out some tips below for making your tires last longer! Read the rest of this entry >>

man changing cabin air filter

How to Change Your Cabin Air Filter

Easy Steps to Change Your Cabin Air Filter at Home

Keeping your vehicle’s interior fresh starts with a clean cabin air filter, and drivers can always count on guidance from Third Coast Auto Group in Austin, TX. This small component plays a big role by filtering dust, pollen, and pollutants before air enters the cabin. Replacing it regularly helps improve air quality and supports efficient airflow through the climate system.

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generic silver sedan driving on the road in the summer

Compact sedans vs midsize sedans

Should I drive a compact sedan or a midsize sedan?

Drivers seeking a new car must consider more than just the basics of interior amenities and style. There are multiple classes of cars, the two most common being compact sedans and midsize sedans. As the names suggest, compact sedans are smaller while midsize sedans are a little bigger. Take a look below at some of the differences between the two! Read the rest of this entry >>

man checking tire pressure

How to check your tire pressure

Driving a vehicle on tires that are improperly inflated can cause some issues. You may experience poor fuel efficiency or poor traction, but those are the less serious issues. Improperly inflated tires can also cause uneven wear and may lead to a tire blowout. It’s best to check your tire pressure at least once or twice a month. If you’ve never done so before, now is a great time to start! Take a look at the article below to learn how to check your tire pressure. It’s quick and easy!

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