Auto Repair Blogs

Missouri Safety and Emissions Test: What You Need To Know The state of Missouri requires an emission and safety inspection be completed for most vehicles. When it comes to keeping your vehicle on the road in Missouri, there are two main types of testing that you need to be aware of: safety inspections and emissions testing. Both are required to keep your vehicle registered, so it’s important to know what to expect. Both types of inspections are essential, and we at Telle Tire & Auto Centers are here to help you through the process. We’ll ensure your vehicle is up ...

How to Change a Tire Flats happen. Knowing exactly what to do when you get a flat tire or if you experience a tire blowout is the best way to get through the inconvenience quickly and efficiently. At Telle Tire, we’re dedicated to keeping you safe on the road, so we put together a step-by-step guide on how to change a tire. It’s important to note that you should always pull your vehicle into a safe environment to change a car tire. Never put yourself in a situation where you might be struck by another vehicle. A Step-By-Step Guide ...

Avoiding Alternator Repairs The alternator in your vehicle is an essential part of keeping it running -- literally. It's responsible for keeping the car going while the engine is on and supplying power to many of the electrical components while driving or idling, several of which are essential for safety. Although this part is designed to last anywhere between several years or up to the vehicle's lifetime (especially when checked as part of routine vehicle maintenance) alternators can go bad due to various causes. When they do begin to fail, there are a variety of bad alternator symptoms your vehicle ...

What is Power Steering and How Does it Work? All of us enjoy a smooth ride. The ease of the steering wheel, the rhythmic hum of the motor. If you’ve ever experienced driving without power steering, you know how crucial it is to an enjoyable trip. The first power steering system was introduced in 1900 by Robert. E Twyford from Pittsburgh, however, it wasn’t until Cadillac released the Chrysler Imperial in 1951 that power steering became an American standard. What is power steering? And how does it work? Let’s cruise into the details of all things pertaining to a ...

Safely Diagnose an Overheated Car Engine If you are having an emergency or suspect serious issues with your vehicle that could lead to a car fire, call 911 immediately. Imagine this: you're driving down the road when you notice your vehicle's temperature gauge climbing. Suddenly, what appears to be smoke begins coming from the engine, emitting a strange smell. You immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and wait. What is happening? How much is this going to cost to repair? Can I keep driving? How far is the nearest auto repair shop? Your car overheating is not something you ...

How Do New Tires Save Gas Mileage? With the ever-increasing cost of gas, it's no wonder drivers are looking for any way they can to save money. Purchasing a more fuel-efficient vehicle is a great start, but achieving the best fuel efficiency of your vehicle depends on a variety of factors, from driving habits to regular maintenance, and even the tires themselves! In this blog, we'll discuss how tires improve fuel efficiency, which fuel-efficient tires to choose, and how to ensure your new tires are properly installed. The Role New Tires Play in Gas Mileage Achieving better fuel economy in ...

How To Pass Emissions Test After A Failed Inspection While it's always recommended to keep up with routine maintenance, in Missouri and many other states, vehicles are required to undergo an inspection and emissions test to help improve air quality. As a vehicle owner, you've more than likely received your notice that it's time for an inspection and emissions test. If your vehicle is a newer model year, chances are you'll easily pass your inspection and emissions test, but as your car ages, your odds of a failed emissions test increase. Going in thinking you'll pass and coming out with ...

Is My Factory Warranty Void if I Don't Service My Car at the Dealership? As a vehicle owner, you know that having it properly maintained is essential, not just to keep the manufacturer's warranty valid, but to also keep it running and avoid potentially costly repairs down the road. Sometimes, scheduling services with the car dealership can be difficult. Trying to work around your own calendar to find a date and time that works for you is tough, especially if you need to wait for your vehicle to be finished. Using a professional automotive shop is usually an easier solution, ...

Top 5 Missouri Road Trip Locations to Visit in Spring If there’s one thing winter is good at, it’s giving you cabin fever. Sure, it can be fun sometimes, but it’s always a relief when it comes to an end. Thankfully, with the spring weather upon us, it's a great time to plan your Missouri road trips. The state is full of places to visit, from beautiful nature areas to picturesque wineries and active small towns. No matter what you enjoy, there's a little something for everyone. Whatever your springtime plans include, make sure your vehicle is up for the ...

I Overinflated My Tires - Is My Safety at Risk? It's no question that air inside tires is a good thing, but when there's too much, it can actually end up causing issues for your vehicle. Overinflated tires can happen due to a variety of reasons, particularly in colder temperatures when tires appear to need to be inflated in the morning, you fill them to the recommended tire pressure, then by afternoon, your tires end up having too much air as temperatures warm – unless you know how to take air out of a tire. So, what exactly can overinflated tires ...