With the introduction of the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicle, alignments instantly became more complicated, and yes, somewhat more expensive. Most of the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles have alignment adjustments on all four wheel positions – and these adjustments must be set within vehicle specifications to insure proper handling, proper tire wear, and increased fuel economy.

Here are the most common signs of an alignment problem:

1. Vehicle pulls to left or right

2. Uneven or rapid tire wear

3. Steering wheel is crooked when driving straight

4. Squealing tires

Even if your vehicle tracks straight, it is a good idea to have your alignment checked once or twice per year to protect your tire investment. At Sunset Tire and Service, we will always check the alignment for free, and give you a print-out showing the condition of the vehicle’s alignment to vehicle specifications.

Sunset Tire and Service uses the Hunter Hawkeye Elite alignment system – the most sophisticated and accurate vehicle aligner available.

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An Oil Change (a.k.a. Lube/Oil/Filter) consists of removing the old oil from a vehicle’s engine and replacing it with new, clean oil. The engine oil filter should also be replaced at the same time. Oil changes at regular intervals are vital to the long-term life of your vehicle’s engine. Vehicle manufacturer’s recommend oils of differing viscosity based on the vehicle’s engine. These oils will also have differing “change” intervals.

At Sunset Tire and Service an Oil Change includes a new oil filter, new oil based on the vehicle manufacturers recommended viscosity and quantity, a chassis lube where applicable, four-tire rotation, a check of all the fluids, and a preventive maintenance analysis.

Tire Rotation and Tire Balance

Keeping the tires rotated and balanced on your vehicle is just as important as keeping the vehicle aligned properly when ensuring maximum life from your tire investment.

Tire rotation is the practice of moving tire/wheel units from one position on the vehicle to another position to promote even tire wear. The weight on the front and rear axles differs – and a “slightly off” alignment setting on a wheel position – can cause uneven wear.

Tire balancing is one of recommended services listed in your owner’s manual. As you drive, your tires will develop wear that changes the weight distribution around the tire/wheel unit – or an imbalance. The common symptoms of out-of balance tires can be uneven and faster treadwear, and a vibration in the steering wheel, floorboard or the seat that gets worse at faster speeds.

Your vehicle’s braking system is probably one of the most taken-for-granted mechanical functions of your vehicle – while the braking system is definitely one of the most important.

Drivers should never ignore these (8) Warning Signs of Brake Problems:

1. Brake light on (dash)

2. Squealing, squeaking, or scraping noises emitted from tire/wheel area

3. Wobbling, vibration or scraping when brakes are applied

4. Leaking fluid (around master-cylinder or backside of tire/wheel area)

5. Spongy or soft brake pedal

6. Increased stopping distance

7. Car pulling to one side when braking

8. Burning smell when driving

Our ASE-certified mechanics will inspect your braking system for free. If a problem is discovered with your braking system, these professionals will develop an estimate using O.E. or O.E. equivalent parts at competitive prices.

Below are the common auto system flushes we recommend to keep your car in tip top shape.

• Coolant/Radiator Flush Crucial for regulating engine heat, coolant (or antifreeze) can be checked via the radiator. It’s a good idea to check your car’s coolant twice a year—once in the winter and once in the summer. Typically, you’ll want to have it replaced every 2 to 3 years.. ...

• Transmission Flush.Your car’s transmission fluid has a very important job—keeping your gears running smoothly. Both the fluid quality and level are crucial, though the level should stay consistent (unless, of course, there is a more serious issue). Depending on your vehicle and transmission type, this fluid should be replenished every 50,000 to 100,000 miles  ...

• Fuel System Flush. ...

• Brake Fluid Flush.The main purpose of brake fluid is to keep your vehicle’s brakes running properly. So, if there is ever something “off” about your brakes, this is probably the first thing that will be checked. The brake fluid level and quality should be checked every time you get an oil change and replaced about every 2 years. ...

• Power Steering Fluid Flush If you enjoy smooth, easy steering, then you’ll want to be sure your power steering fluid is at an appropriate level. It doesn’t usually get too low, however, so if you notice it drop quite a bit, there may be a bigger issue. While it’s important to check the power steering fluid level, you may never need to flush it—just top it off whenever needed.

If a road were perfectly flat, with no irregularities, suspensions wouldn't be necessary. But roads are far from flat. Even freshly paved highways have subtle imperfections that can interact with the wheels­ of a car. It's these imperfections that apply forces to the wheels.

Whether it's shocks, struts, ball joints, steering, tie rods, rack and pinion or CV Joints, Sunset Tire can help keep you safely and comfortably on the road.

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Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter, a feature found on most late-model vehicles, cleans the air that comes into the interior (cabin) through the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system of the vehicle. This filter catches dust, pollen, and other airborne material that can make riding in the car unpleasant – particularly if you have allergies or other respiratory problems.

 

Engine Air Filter

A new, clean air filter can give the vehicle more power, better fuel mileage, and longer engine life. Service includes visual inspection and replacement of the air filter as necessary.

A dead battery can leave you stranded, so it’s good to have it checked regularly. Service includes electrical system test, remove and recycle old battery, terminal cleaning, add protectant washers and spray, and install new battery. 

A quick diagnosis will tell us if it the battery or battery cables.

We can test your alternator or your starter and replace if necessary. Let Sunset Tire and Service keep you worry free with the latest technology and service available.