Last updated 8 days ago
When a vehicle suffers any type of damage, it should always be brought in to an auto repair center for repair. The front end of the vehicle is no exception. In most vehicles, the engine and a majority of other systems are in the front of the vehicle. Many key suspension pieces are also located at the front end. Learn about why front-end damage is so important to have repaired properly.
Alignment
Alignment consists of sensitive systems, and any type of collision will likely have an effect on alignment. The majority of components that effect alignment are located in the front of the vehicle. Because of this, a front-end collision is almost guaranteed to cause misalignment. This will make controlling your vehicle more difficult, wear out tires unevenly, and may damage suspension components if not repaired quickly.
Suspension
Suspension is found throughout the underbody of a vehicle. A large amount of important suspension equipment is found in the front of the vehicle. Front-end damage often takes a toll on front suspension components. Never drive with damaged suspension components—have them repaired immediately.
Cooling
In most vehicles, the cooling system is located in the front of the vehicle. In fact, radiators are usually the most forward-located piece of engine equipment. If the radiator suffers direct damage, it should be replaced. Even if the radiator is not damaged, when the front of the vehicle’s body is damaged, this may block air-flow. Without the proper supply of air, the radiator will not cool down properly and the engine may overheat.
Visibility
Front-end damage usually results in at least one headlight getting hit. The headlights on a vehicle are adjusted specifically to illuminate the proper area in front of the vehicle. Even a small adjustment caused by damage may reduce visibility, making night driving dangerous.
Frame
Damage to a vehicle’s frame will usually cause issues similar to a misaligned suspension. Frame damage should be repaired quickly and handled by a professional.
If your vehicle has suffered front-end damage of any kind, let Dorchester Tire Service take care of it. Contact us at (617) 326-7275 for more information.
Last updated 15 days ago
If you are ever in doubt about the condition of a tire, bring the vehicle in to your local auto repair shop for inspection. Tires are made to support an entire vehicle, plus the people inside. When they are in good condition and properly inflated, tires will ensure maximum fuel economy and performance. Read on to learn more about various tire issues and whether each can be repaired.
Wear
All tires will eventually wear down because of the tough conditions they endure. The tread of a tire cannot be repaired once it is worn out. Check your tires for wear frequently, and replace them when they are too worn down.
If tires are wearing unevenly, this may be a fixable issue. Uneven tire wear is almost always a sign of alignment issues. If the tires haven’t worn down too far on one side of the tire, have your wheels aligned and your tires rotated.
Punctures
If a tire is punctured, it can only be repaired if the puncture is on the treaded portion of the tire. A puncture that is larger than ¼-inch cannot be repaired. If you are uncertain, bring the vehicle into a tire center for an inspection.
Sidewall Separation
Sidewall separation occurs when the chords or strings that hold the tire’s shape come unglued from the rubber. This is a serious issue and cannot be repaired. The tire should be replaced immediately if separation occurs.
Bubbles
A tire bubble creates a raised area along the sidewall. This is a sign of compromised tire integrity and should be addressed right away.
Cracking
The rubber in old tires and ones that have been exposed to the elements breaks down, and hardens over time. The rubber then cracks because of the pressure and changing conditions it faces. Cracking cannot be repaired, and tires with cracking should be replaced.
Bad Valves
Valve stems issues are not the most common, but they can become bent or spring a leak. In most cases, these can be repaired fairly easily.
Dorchester Tire Service offers tire repair, replacement, alignments, and more. Call us at (617) 326-7275, or simply stop by, no appointment is necessary.
Last updated 22 days ago
For years, Dorchester Tire Service has delivered fast tire service, oil changes and state inspections. In fact, many of our loyal customers call us their pit crew because we get them in and out so fast.
However, some major auto services (brakes, exhaust, front end work, etc.) require more time and for that we continue to offer our complimentary shuttle service throughout our local communities. If you live or work in Dorchester, South Boston or the Downtown Financial District, ask us for a ride home or to the office.
We know your time is valuable so let us do our work while you do your work. Visit the Dorchester Tire Service Website, or call the office directly at (617) 326-7275!
Last updated 29 days ago
Constant velocity (CV) joints and axles help to keep your vehicle’s front tires in place. These components also help to maintain your car’s alignment and proper steering. For these reasons, regular checks of your CV joints and axles are important parts of auto repair.
Thankfully, the symptoms caused by worn CV joints and axles are also easy to spot.
- Audible Symptoms: The most recognizable symptom of CV joint and axle issues is a characteristic clicking noise. This clicking is often produced by movement within a CV joint’s worn groove. As a result, this noisy indicator is heard during turns—the sharper the turn, the more noticeable the click. Likewise, backing a vehicle up will cause similar noises. Confirm the presence of a CV joint and axle issue by matching these sounds to other symptoms.
- Visible Leaks: The ball-groove construction of a constant velocity joint is housed within rubber boots. These covers protect the sensitive CV joint from sand, dirt, and debris. Additionally, CV joint boots are filled with grease to keep parts properly lubricated. Damaged boots, however, will begin leaking grease onto your driveway. Take your vehicle in for repair if you catch this visible symptom. A boot that leaks grease is also a boot that allows debris to infiltrate CV joints. Catching the signs of a boot leak early can help to prevent additional wear to other CV joint and axle parts.
- Performance Issues: Sights and sounds aren’t the only way drivers can catch a CV joint and axle problem. Wear to this important component will eventually produce noticeable performance problems. Intense vibrations felt during acceleration are a clue that CV joints and axles are in need of repair. Drivers should watch for symptoms of drive shaft and axle problems. Damage to these parts is a typical outcome of progressive CV joint failure.
Don’t let minimal CV joint and axle wear transform into a costly auto repair. Call Dorchester Tire Service immediately if you detect any of the above symptoms. Call (617) 326-7275 to set up a service appointment today.
Last updated 1 month ago
Dorchester Tire Service: Celebrating 50 years! $24.99 for an oil change, tire rotation, and visual brake check (worth $52)!
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1) After purchase, check your email inbox for your unique voucher or sign into your Boston Deals account to view your voucher under the “Purchase History” tab
2) Appointments are not required; please mention your Boston Deals voucher when you get to the service center
3) Use one voucher per vehicle
4) Take advantage of Dorchester Tire Service's free shuttle service! They're also super close to 93 and just a short walk from the Savin Hill Red Line stop.
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