The Power Behind your Engine (Alternator Diagnosis and Repair)
January 4, 2026
There's nothing like that sinking feeling when you turn the key and nothing happens in your vehicle. A lot of us are quick to blame the battery. But it may instead be your alternator that's failing. Your battery supplies power to start your vehicle, but the alternator is what sends power when y... More
What's in a Number? (What Tire Numbers Mean)
December 28, 2025
You've probably never paid much attention to the writing on the sides of your tires, but they contain a wealth of information. There's a long combination of letters and numbers that can tell you a whole lot about what tires your vehicle was designed to be riding on. Let's check out this example... More
Air Conditioning Maintenance at Car Fix Renton in Renton
December 21, 2025
Warm weather or cold, Renton drivers still need to think about their vehicle's air conditioning. Most Renton people don't service their air conditioning until after it fails. At Car Fix Renton, we can advise you on your vehicle manufacturers preventive maintenance schedules for air conditioning ... More
An Oil for All Seasons (Engine Oil Selection)
December 14, 2025
You swap your winter boots for flip-flops in the summer. Why not change your winter engine oil for summer, hot-weather oil? While it may seem like it makes sense, there's some good news. Most drivers don't have to, and here's why. Engine oil can be made in different thicknesses. That thicknes... More
Automotive Tips from Car Fix Renton: Rotor Problems
December 7, 2025
The brake rotor, or disc, is attached to your wheel. The brake pads rub on the rotor to slow your car when you are driving in Renton.Rotors can warp, crack or become misaligned. They can also be damaged by worn out brake pads that scratch grooves into the surface. These conditions result in less ... More
Beware of Potholes! (Avoiding Pothole Damage)
November 30, 2025
You may live in a region where roads become pockmarked with craters known better as potholes. They're caused by moisture seeping through a compromised road surface that can freeze, expand and literally punch holes in the road. And when your vehicle hits one of those holes that's big enough, the... More
Your Vehicle's Other Power Plant (Alternator Replacement)
November 23, 2025
Your vehicle's engine is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a power plant. But it has another power source that is vital as well: the alternator. The alternator is what puts out the electricity that powers such things as your lights, power windows, sound system, and na... More
Objects in the Mirror (Rearview Mirror Safety and Maintenance)
November 16, 2025
You may remember a song that went, "Objects in the rearview mirror may appear closer than they are." While that was a song about life's lessons, there are a few things we should all know about how important rearview mirrors are to safe driving. While new electronic devices are helping drivers be ... More
Positive Crankcase Ventilation ? PCV Valve Service at Car Fix Renton
November 9, 2025
Hello Renton! Did you know that the first federally-mandated emissions control device was introduced in the 1960's? The Positive Crankcase Ventilation valve, or PCV valve, has been installed in WA vehicles since 1964 and represents the first legislation by the United States government to regulate... More
Breathe Easier (Cabin Air Filter)
November 3, 2025
When you get in your vehicle, how does it smell? If it's not so nice, it may be time to have your cabin air filter changed. It's not the same one that filters out the air used in the engine. The cabin air filter screens out dust and other particulates from the outside air so when it enters the c... More