Sacramento Auto Repair

Having a spare tire is like having insurance — it's something you hope you never need, but it's indispensable when you do.

Imagine this scenario: you're driving along a remote stretch of highway near Sacramento, and suddenly, you hear that dreaded sound — a flat tire. Without a spare tire, your journey comes to a screeching halt. A spare tire is your lifeline in such situations, enabling you to quickly replace the damaged tire and get back on the road safely.

Different Types of Spare Tires

1. Full-Size Spare Tires: These are identical to your regular tires in size, type, and tread pattern. They offer the same performance and handling characteristics as your primary tires, making them the ideal replacement for long-term use.
2. Compact Spare Tires (Donut Spares): These are smaller and lighter than full-size tires, designed to save space and reduce weight. They are meant for temporary use only and typically have speed and mileage limitations. Donut spares are common in modern vehicles due to their compact nature.
3. Temporary/Space-Saver Spare Tires: Similar to compact spares, these are designed to be lighter and take up less space in your vehicle. They are also temporary solutions and come with restrictions on speed and distance.
4. Run-Flat Tires: Some vehicles come equipped with run-flat tires that are specially designed to maintain functionality even after a puncture. These tires allow you to continue driving for a limited distance at a reduced speed, giving you time to reach a service station or a safer location.

A spare tire is not just a convenience but a critical safety feature. If you unfortunately experience a flat, a spare tire allows you to continue your journey without being stranded. Changing a flat tire yourself or with roadside assistance reduces the risks associated with being stranded on the roadside and gets you back on the road, minimizing downtime and potential towing costs.

Whether it’s a full-size spare, a compact spare, or even a run-flat tire, having one ensures that you are prepared for unexpected flat tires. Remember, regular maintenance of your spare tire—checking its pressure and condition—is crucial to ensure it's ready when you need it most.

At Paul's Automotive in Sacramento, we are happy to make sure your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire suitable for your needs and vehicle specifications. Give us a call or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Stay safe and prepared on the road with Paul’s Automotive.

In the intricate world of automotive engineering, some components often go unnoticed, yet they play pivotal roles in ensuring the smooth functioning of vehicles. Among these unsung heroes are gaskets, seals, and ventilation systems in internal combustion engines. These seemingly small parts are crucial for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the engine, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. 

Gaskets and seals might appear insignificant at first glance, but their functions are indispensable. Gaskets are essentially mechanical seals, designed to fill the space between two or more mating surfaces, preventing leakage while withstanding compression.  Seals, on the other hand, are used to block the passage of fluids or gases between two moving or stationary parts.

In an internal combustion engine, gaskets and seals serve multiple critical purposes:

• Fluid Sealing: They prevent fluids like oil, coolant, and fuel from leaking out or mixing with each other, maintaining proper lubrication and cooling throughout the engine system.
• Pressure Containment: Gaskets help contain the high-pressure combustion that occurs within the engine cylinders, ensuring efficient power generation and preventing energy loss.
• Thermal Management: They assist in managing heat by providing a barrier between components with different operating temperatures, thus preventing overheating and maintaining optimal engine performance.
• Vibration Dampening: Gaskets and seals absorb vibrations generated during engine operation, reducing wear and tear on engine components and prolonging their lifespan.

The Importance of Proper Ventilation: In addition to gaskets and seals, ventilation systems are vital for internal combustion engines. Proper ventilation ensures the removal of harmful gases, such as exhaust fumes and crankcase vapors, from the engine compartment. Without adequate ventilation, these gases can accumulate, leading to a host of issues including decreased engine efficiency, increased emissions, and even potential health hazards for occupants.

Ventilation systems in internal combustion engines typically consist of:

• Crankcase Ventilation: This system removes gases that accumulate in the crankcase, such as blow-by gases containing unburned hydrocarbons, water vapor, and combustion by-products. Failure to adequately ventilate the crankcase can lead to increased oil contamination, reduced engine efficiency, and ultimately, engine damage.
• Exhaust Ventilation: Proper exhaust ventilation is essential for expelling harmful exhaust gases produced during the combustion process. It ensures compliance with emissions regulations, reduces environmental impact, and maintains air quality both inside and outside the vehicle.

For Paul's Automotive in Sacramento, CA, understanding the importance of gaskets, seals, and ventilation systems is crucial for providing top-notch service to customers. Whether it's routine maintenance, engine repairs, or performance upgrades, ensuring the integrity of these components is paramount for customer satisfaction and long-term reliability.

By prioritizing quality gaskets and seals during repairs and replacements, Paul's Automotive can prevent common issues such as oil leaks, coolant leaks, and compression loss, thereby enhancing engine performance and prolonging its lifespan. Similarly, by maintaining and optimizing ventilation systems, they can ensure compliance with emissions standards, reduce environmental impact, and promote a healthier driving experience for their customers.

In the complex ecosystem of internal combustion engines, gaskets, seals, and ventilation systems may not always steal the spotlight, but their significance cannot be overstated. From preventing leaks and maintaining pressure to managing heat and removing harmful gases, these components play critical roles in ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and longevity of automotive engines. For automotive professionals like Paul's Automotive, recognizing and prioritizing the importance of these components is key to delivering exceptional service and driving customer satisfaction in the ever-evolving automotive industry.

In a world where precision and reliability are paramount, trust in the hands of experts who understand the intricacies of your vehicle. At Paul's Automotive, we not only recognize the importance of every component within your engine but also strive to exceed expectations in every service we provide. From meticulous attention to detail in gasket and seal replacements to ensuring optimal ventilation systems, we're committed to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently for years to come. Bring your vehicle to Paul's Automotive in Sacramento, CA and experience the difference expertise makes. Your journey starts here.

Engine cooling and air conditioning are two different systems that play crucial roles in maintaining the performance and longevity of vehicles. Engine cooling is primarily responsible for regulating the temperature of the engine, while air conditioning focuses on cooling the interior of the vehicle for passenger comfort.

Engine cooling is essential to prevent overheating, which can lead to severe damage to the engine. It typically involves a radiator, coolant, water pump, and thermostat. The radiator helps dissipate heat from the engine coolant, which absorbs excess heat from the engine. The water pump circulates the coolant, ensuring that it flows through the engine and radiator, while the thermostat regulates the coolant flow based on the engine's temperature. This cooling system prevents the engine from reaching excessively high temperatures, optimizing its performance and preventing potential breakdowns.

On the other hand, air conditioning is responsible for cooling and dehumidifying the air inside the vehicle's cabin. It consists of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve. The air conditioning system uses a refrigerant that circulates throughout the entire system. The refrigerant converts from a gas to a liquid state and vice versa, allowing it to absorb heat from inside the vehicle and discharge it outside. This process cools the air and helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside the car during hot weather.

In conclusion, while engine cooling protects the engine from overheating and ensures optimal performance, air conditioning enhances passenger comfort by cooling and dehumidifying the air inside the vehicle. Both systems are crucial for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, catering to the different needs of the vehicle and its occupants.

If your vehicle is running hot it may be time to have your cooling or air conditioning services.  We are happy to help you with that at Paul's Automotive in Sacramento, CA.  Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today for cool runnings!

Buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself and your passengers in a crash.  It is extremely important to make sure all children riding in your car are properly secured before every trip.
Thousands of children are injured or killed every year because their child passenger safety seats are not installed properly. Remember, most collisions occur within a mile of the home - so buckle your child in a safety seat for every trip, no matter how short. 

Current California Law:

• Children under 2 years of age shall ride in a rear-facing car seat unless the child weighs 40 or more pounds OR is 40 or more inches tall. The child shall be secured in a manner that complies with the height and weight limits specified by the manufacturer of the car seat. (California Vehicle Code Section 27360.)
• Children under the age of 8 must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat.
• Children who are 8 years of age OR have reached 4’9” in height may be secured by a booster seat, but at a minimum must be secured by a safety belt. (California Vehicle Code Section 27363.)
• Passengers who are 16 years of age and over are subject to California's Mandatory Seat Belt law. 

When can a child graduate to a booster seat?
California law does not address graduation time from a five-point harness to a booster seat. In the interest of safety, do not rush to move a child into a booster seat before they’re ready. Each time you “graduate” your child to the next seat, there’s a reduction in the level of protection for your child. Keep your child in each stage for as long as possible.

A child is ready for a booster seat when they have outgrown the weight or height limit of their forward-facing harnesses, which is typically between 40 and 65 pounds. Read the forward-facing car seat’s owner’s manual to determine height and weight limits, and keep your child in a harnessed seat for as long as possible.

Children at this stage are not yet ready for adult safety belts and should use belt-positioning booster seats until they are at least 4’9″ and between 8 and 12 years old. Safety belts are designed for 165-pound male adults, so it’s no wonder that research shows poorly fitting adult belts can injure children.

If you're not confident of how to properly secure your child in a safety seat, contact your local CHP Area Office, and ask to speak with a child passenger safety technician or stop by the shop and we will be happy to help you.

In recent years, there has been a disturbing surge in automotive-related crimes, with catalytic converter, tire, and fuel theft emerging as particularly prevalent and costly issues. These crimes not only pose financial burdens on individuals and businesses but also contribute to environmental concerns and public safety hazards. Paul’s Automotive is your trusted auto repair partner in Sacramento. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind the spike in these thefts, their impact on communities, and measures being taken to address the growing problem.

Catalytic Converter Theft: A Lucrative Niche for Criminals
Catalytic converters, essential components of a vehicle's exhaust system, contain valuable metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. The surging prices of these precious metals in the global market have made catalytic converters an attractive target for thieves. Criminals can swiftly remove these devices from parked vehicles, often in broad daylight, using simple tools.

The impact of catalytic converter theft extends beyond the financial loss to vehicle owners. Repair costs can be substantial, and the environmental consequences are noteworthy, as catalytic converters play a crucial role in reducing emissions and air pollution.

Tire Theft: Stripping Vehicles Bare
Tire theft is another automotive crime that has gained prominence. Criminals often target high-value or specialized tires, leaving vehicle owners with not only the expense of replacing the stolen tires but also potential damage to the vehicle during the theft.

The rise in tire theft is driven by various factors, including the demand for specific tire brands, sizes, or types in the resale market. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive tracking systems for tires makes it challenging for law enforcement to trace stolen goods back to their origins.

Fuel Theft: Draining Resources and Creating Safety Hazards
Fuel theft is not a new phenomenon, but its frequency has increased in recent times. Thieves target fuel tanks, punching holes in tanks to drain fuel or siphoning off gasoline or diesel for personal use or resale. This crime not only results in financial losses for individuals and businesses but can also lead to safety hazards, including fuel spills and potential fire risks.

The motives behind fuel theft vary, ranging from individuals looking to save money on fuel costs to organized criminal groups seeking to profit from the resale of stolen fuel on the black market.

Combating Automotive Crimes: Legislative Measures and Technological Solutions
Governments and law enforcement agencies are recognizing the urgency of addressing these automotive crimes. Legislative measures are being implemented to regulate the scrap metal industry, making it more difficult for thieves to profit from selling stolen catalytic converters and other automotive components.
Moreover, advancements in technology are playing a crucial role in preventing and solving these crimes. GPS tracking devices, security cameras, and vehicle immobilization systems are being employed to deter thieves and aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles and components.

Creating awareness within communities is essential for preventing automotive crimes. Public education campaigns can inform vehicle owners about the risks and encourage them to take preventive measures, such as parking in well-lit areas, using anti-theft devices, and marking catalytic converters with identifying information.

We have added a new product and service to our menu, the installation of Cobra Cat anti-theft devices.  The Cobra-Cat™ Security Strike System, is a cutting edge alarm system that uses radar technology to secure the undercarriage of most cars and trucks. It does a remarkable job of protecting your vehicle’s catalytic converter as well as your rims and tires from theft! At Paul's Automotive, we understand the challenges posed by the rising tide of automotive crime. Give us a call or schedule your installation appointment online today.

We all know what tires are but do we really fully appreciate what they do, how important they are and how they can tell us about potential issues with our vehicle.

Let’s first talk about what tires do.  Tires connect our vehicles to the road.  Everything literally rides on our tires.  The contact patch of the tire (roughly the six inches of tire that touch the road while we are driving)  carry us safely to wherever we are going.  Making sure your tires are properly maintained will enable you are able to safely drive your vehicle.  Your tires will also play a part in the comfort and ride of your vehicle.  Nice tall (fluffy) tires will provide a lot of cushion when driving on rough roads and give you a more comfortable ride.  Short and squatty tires will give you better handling when cornering at higher speeds.  The size and inflation of your tires are REALLY IMPORTANT too.   In addition to increased fuel usage overinflation and underinflation can cause your tires to wear unevenly and prematurely.  Wheels that are out of alignment can also cause uneven tire wear (edge wear) as well as wheels that are out of balance (patchy wear).

Most modern vehicles are equipped with TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) which will alert you to high/low pressure.  The information for the TPMS is provided by sensors located on or in your tires or wheels.  Sensors are battery operated.  Batteries will start to lose their power when the sensors are about 7-10 years old.  Aftermarket replacement sensors are available or you can also check the correct tire pressure for your vehicle by referencing the chart located on the driver’s side door jamb of the vehicle.

At Paul’s Autmotive we believe tires are so important for your safety we include a complimentary tire inspection with every service we do here.  As always, if you have any questions we are happy to help.  Give us a call or stop by the shop at your convenience. 

Although oil changes are vital, they should not be the sole concentration of car maintenance. Although replacing the "blood source" of your vehicle is vital, there are additional measures to ensure a safe and dependable vehicle. Ignoring safety inspections can have dire consequences for your safety, finances, and driving enjoyment. Envision a serene drive, interrupted by a sudden flash of a warning light on your dashboard. The potential outcomes of ignoring those signs are dire beyond what we might imagine.

In much the same way, regular safety checks on our vehicles are necessary to ensure their overall health and well-being. Early detection and rectification of issues are made possible by these inspections before they become major. Safeguarding road safety requires focusing on these assessments to prevent gradual deterioration. Paul's Automotive understands the significance of scheduling maintenance at your convenience and places great importance on your safety during every visit. By conducting digital safety inspections, we take photographs to serve as a reference and educate you on how to prioritize for budget-friendly solutions. A deeper understanding of your car's health is part of the scope of care, which goes beyond an oil change. Technicians with certification scrutinize every vital aspect to deliver top-notch vehicle performance. The unexpected nature of safety is reversed at Paul's Automotive, where you take control. By prioritizing proactive care, you can safeguard your vehicle's durability and overall health.

When you hear the work spark, especially at this time of year, you think of little children holding wands with a little snap, crackle and pop at the end. This month we are talking about something kind of similar, the spark that causes the combustion in an internal combustion engine.

There are different types of spark plugs available. The type of spark plug your vehicle uses will depend on the type of fuel your vehicle uses.

Most automobile engines are 4 stroke engines. The first stroke brings air and fuel into the cylinder, the second stroke compresses the air/fuel mix, the third stroke (the power stroke) is the combustion stroke where a spark ignites the compressed air/fuel mix and the fourth stroke is the exhaust stroke. This process happens thousands of times every time you drive your vehicle. It is the third stroke of this process, the power stroke, where a vehicle’s spark plugs come into play. Without any spark, combustion will not occur and your car will not start or move.

The three main types of sparks plugs vary due to the metal used at the tip of the electrodes. Copper, Platinum and Iridium are the three different types of metal that are most commonly used. Why does the metal matter? The stronger the metal the longer it will last. Copper sparkplugs are the most commonly used spark plug. Copper is an excellent electrical conductor, but it is not as hard as the other metals and has a lower melting point. They have an average life of about 20,000 miles. Platinum plugs will typically last about 60,000 – 100,000 miles. That is because Platinum is a harder metal and has a higher heat tolerance. Iridium spark plugs have the longest life span. Iridium is 8 times stronger than Platinum and has a melting point over 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of this, Iridium plugs last up to 25% longer than platinum spark plugs.

Silver spark plugs are also an option. Silver, like copper, is an excellent thermal conductor but, like Copper, is not as hard as platinum or iridium and will not last as long. Silver spark plugs are mostly used in motorcycles or older European vehicles.

Diesel engines do not use spark plugs at all, rather they use ”Glow Plugs”. Instead of creating intermittent sparks, glow plugs are essentially a heating element. When the compressed fuel and air in a cylinder make contact with the hot surface of the glow plug it will ignite and cause combustion.

So, there you have it! We hope we put a little spark into your day 😊

If you are experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, rough idling, sluggish acceleration, declining fuel economy or engine knocking it could be a sign that your spark plugs are in need of replacement. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online and we would be happy to check it out for you.

The most prevalent cause of clunking noises are problems with your suspension/steering components. But where does this originate?

This can be a result of different components not performing as designed. One of these components is a strut and/or shock. What is a strut or shock? Struts are a structural part of the suspension system and are mounted to the chassis of the vehicle on the top, and they come down through. Struts will have mounts, boots and bump stops within the complete strut. They are located behind the front tires most of the time. A Shock Absorber is a part designed to keep your tires on the road and keeps vehicle from bouncing. Vehicles can have a strut and a shock on the same vehicle. You will find many cars and trucks with Struts on the Front Axle and Shocks on the Rear Axle. Generally, shocks and struts wear out every 50,000-100,000 miles. If you're a more aggressive driver and/or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster.

Shocks and struts don't go out all at once; they deteriorate slowly over time. This can also put stress on other suspension/steering components because they are no longer getting support from the struts/shocks and ultimately be an extremely expensive repair. It is crucial that you get your vehicle suspension checked regularly to avoid loss of handling and control. You may notice that your vehicle bounces excessively, rolls or sways abruptly when making a turn. Your vehicle can also nosedive coming to a complete stop and causing the brakes to wear out faster. You may feel out of control when hit by a cross wind. It can also lose their ability to control the rate of weight transfer when going around corners.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms plan a visit with us and we will be happy to perform a visual inspection, save you thousands, and ultimately keep you safe on the road.

What is TPMS and How Does it Work?

In response to a surge of accidents due to underinflated tires, the US government passed the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act.  One of the outcomes of this legislation was that most vehicles sold after 2007 include a TPMS system of some kind.

Your vehicles Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is designed to warn you when the pressure in one or more of your tires may be low or require service.  The TPMS warning indicator is the yellow symbol shown above (horseshoe shape with an exclamation point).

Why is an underinflated tire so important?

• Underinflated tires cause poor fuel economy.  The Department of Transportation estimates that underinflated tires waste 2 billion US gallons of fuel each year. 
• The life of your tires is not as long when you drive on underinflated tires.  When your tires are underinflated the internal temperature rises and causes a breakdown of material bonds inside the tire.  Once a tire is weakened, it won’t heal after being re-inflated to the proper pressure.  So if a tire has been allowed to run low for a period of time it may need to be replaced.
• Underinflated tires will affect the handling of the vehicle.  Properly inflated tires add greater stability, braking and a safer experience for the driver.
• According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, vehicles with under-inflated tires release more than 300 billion pounds of carbon monoxide in the United States each year. By monitoring tire pressure on your vehicles, you can ensure tires are properly inflated so you can help reduce the emission of dangerous pollutants.

It is not uncommon for the TPMS senor to activate when the temperature drops.  The air gets denser and takes up less space, meaning reduced pressure from the air in your tires.  When the temperature turns colder check your tire pressure and add air as needed — think of adding a bit of air like topping off your gas tank.

When you see the TPMS warning indicator on your vehicle’s instrument panel, immediately check your tire pressure or stop our shop so that we can do it for you.  If your alert is still displayed after setting the tire pressure, your TPMS may need to run through a “relearn” process or even require a TPMS sensor replacement.  We can also examine your tires for damage, such as a puncture, to explain the air loss.