5 Signs Your Mitsubishi Needs a New Alternator Mike Kelly Mitsubishi

Good tires make a huge difference in how your vehicle performs. They reduce road noise and vibrations, giving you and your passengers a smoother and more comfortable ride. They also enhance the safety of your vehicle by increasing traction, especially in harsh weather conditions. It’s important to replace tires before they are overly worn. But how can you tell when it’s time for new tires from your Mitsubishi dealer? YOUR TIRES DON’T PASS THE PENNY TEST A quick at-home test is a great way of determining if your tires are worn enough to need replacement. Simply place a penny into one of the gaps in your tire treads, with the top of Lincoln’s head facing toward the center of the wheel. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is less than 2/32 of an inch and your tires need to be replaced. YOU CAN SEE CRACKS AND BULGES ON THE TIRES Cracks and bulges on the sidewalls of your tires indicate heavy wear and the presence of weak spots. Both can put you at risk of a blowout, so you’ll want to schedule time to have your tires checked right away. This type of wear develops over time and can be the result of weather, improper tire alignment, and damage caused by scraping against curbs. Tires have metal or polyester cords that support their structure. If your cords are visible, that’s another physical signal that a new set of tires is in order. YOUR CAR SHAKES Strong vibrations when your car is being driven at either fast or low speed are another indication that a new set of tires may be needed. If the metal belts inside your tires slip out of place, it can cause the vehicle to shake while being driven. Vibrations may also be a sign that your tires are unbalanced or out of alignment. YOUR TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT IS FREQUENTLY ON If your vehicle’s tire pressure light frequently comes on, signaling that your pressure is low, your tires may be wearing out. Many tires also now have tread wear bars, which are small rubber squares placed in the grooves of your tire. When the tread bars are even with the surface of your tread, you’ve experienced enough wear to merit replacement tires. YOUR TIRES ARE OLD Most tires should be replaced after six to 10 years on the road. If you can’t remember when you last purchased a new set of tires, it’s probably time to invest in replacement tires. Good tires can extend the life of your vehicle by supporting safety and performance. Don’t ignore signs that your tires are wearing, and when you’re ready to schedule your next service appointment, call Mike Kelly Mitsubishi.

Maintaining your Mitsubishi in excellent condition requires regular care and attention to various components of your vehicle. Whether you're commuting through the streets of Butler, Pennsylvania, or embarking on a road trip, keeping up with essential maintenance tasks ensures your Mitsubishi runs smoothly and efficiently. At Mike Kelly Mitsubishi, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in top shape. That's why we've compiled these seven crucial maintenance tips to help you preserve the performance, safety, and longevity of your Mitsubishi. From regular oil changes to checking your tire pressure and ensuring your brakes are in optimal condition, these tips cover the fundamental aspects of vehicle maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can avoid potential issues down the road and enjoy a reliable driving experience. For professional assistance and expert service, we invite you to visit or contact Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, PA. Our dedicated team is here to help you keep your Mitsubishi running like new. 1. Regular Oil Changes Regular oil changes are fundamental to maintaining optimal engine health in your Mitsubishi. Engine oil serves several critical functions, including lubricating engine components to reduce friction and wear, cooling engine parts, and cleaning away contaminants and debris. Over time, however, oil breaks down and becomes less effective, leading to potential engine damage if not changed regularly. By adhering to the recommended oil change intervals—typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual—you ensure that your Mitsubishi’s engine operates smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting oil changes can result in decreased engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and ultimately, costly repairs. For reliable oil change services and expert maintenance, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our skilled technicians use quality oil and filters to keep your Mitsubishi running at its best, ensuring longevity and performance for years to come. 2. Tire Life Maintaining adequate tire tread depth is essential for ensuring the safety and performance of your Mitsubishi. Tires with sufficient tread provide crucial traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. Easily check your tire tread depth using the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head facing down—if you can see the top of his head, it's time to replace your tires. Regularly performing this test helps you monitor wear and maintain safe driving conditions. For comprehensive tire care, including rotations and alignments, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our skilled technicians are dedicated to keeping your tires in optimal condition for a smooth and safe driving experience. 3. Coolant Vigilance Regular coolant checks are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your Mitsubishi's engine. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating. Over time, coolant can become contaminated or depleted, compromising its ability to effectively cool the engine. Without proper coolant levels, your engine is at risk of overheating, which can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. Regularly checking and replenishing coolant levels, as well as ensuring the correct mixture and type as specified in your owner’s manual, is essential. By prioritizing coolant maintenance, you safeguard your Mitsubishi against overheating and ensure optimal engine performance. For expert coolant system inspections and maintenance services, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our experienced technicians will ensure your cooling system is functioning efficiently, providing you with peace of mind on the road. 4. Brake System Care Maintaining your Mitsubishi’s brake system is essential for safety on the road. Regular inspections to monitor brake pad wear and rotor condition are crucial to ensure effective stopping power and prevent costly repairs. Additionally, maintaining proper brake fluid levels and promptly addressing any unusual noises or changes in brake performance can help maintain optimal braking efficiency. Adhering to the maintenance schedule outlined in your Mitsubishi’s owner’s manual ensures that your brakes remain reliable and responsive. For professional brake system care in Butler, Pennsylvania, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi, where our certified technicians are dedicated to keeping your brakes in peak condition for a safe driving experience. 5. Air Filter Attention The air filter plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and performance of your Mitsubishi's engine. It serves as the first line of defense against dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can enter the engine. A clean air filter ensures that only clean air reaches the engine, promoting optimal combustion and fuel efficiency. Over time, however, the air filter can become clogged with debris, restricting airflow and reducing engine performance. Regularly replacing the air filter, typically recommended every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual, is essential to ensure your Mitsubishi continues to operate at peak efficiency. By maintaining a clean air filter, you not only improve engine performance but also extend the lifespan of engine components and reduce emissions. For professional air filter maintenance and replacement, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our expert technicians will ensure your air filter is in top condition, helping you get the most out of your Mitsubishi's engine. 6. Wiper Blade Maintenance Maintaining functional wiper blades is crucial for visibility and safety while driving your Mitsubishi. Worn wiper blades can compromise visibility, especially during adverse weather conditions like rain or snow. Signs of worn wiper blades include streaking, smearing, or leaving behind water spots on your windshield, which can obstruct your view and increase the risk of accidents. Regularly inspecting your wiper blades for these signs and promptly replacing them when necessary ensures clear visibility and effective windshield clearing. For reliable wiper blade maintenance and replacement services, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our experienced technicians will ensure your wiper blades are in optimal condition, providing you with clear visibility and safer driving experiences in any weather. 7. Battery Health Maintaining a healthy battery is essential for ensuring reliable operation of your Mitsubishi. The battery provides the electrical energy needed to start your vehicle and power its electrical components. Regular battery maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensures your Mitsubishi starts reliably in all conditions. Signs of battery issues include slow cranking when starting, dim headlights, or dashboard warning lights indicating battery problems. Checking battery terminals for corrosion and ensuring they are tightly connected are simple steps to maintain battery health. If your battery is over three years old, having it tested regularly and replaced if necessary is recommended to avoid unexpected failures. For comprehensive battery maintenance and replacement services, visit Mike Kelly Mitsubishi in Butler, Pennsylvania. Our expert technicians will ensure your battery is in top condition, providing you with confidence in your Mitsubishi's reliability on the road. Keep Your Car in Excellent Condition with Mike Kelly Mitsubishi To ensure your Mitsubishi remains in excellent condition near Butler, Pennsylvania, trust Mike Kelly Mitsubishi for expert maintenance advice and services. Our team emphasizes seven essential maintenance tips, including regular oil changes, tire care, coolant checks, brake system care, air filter maintenance, wiper blade replacements, and battery health assessments. These practices are crucial for keeping your Mitsubishi running smoothly and safely on the road. Explore our previous blogs on Discover the Advanced Features of the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Mike Kelly Mitsubishi, Your Mitsubishi Dealer's Guide To The 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, and Time For New Tires? Visit Your Mitsubishi Dealership. Contact Mike Kelly Mitsubishi today for more information or to schedule maintenance. Visit our dealership in Butler, Pennsylvania, or browse our website to discover how we can help you maintain your Mitsubishi in optimal condition. Trust Mike Kelly Mitsubishi for all your Mitsubishi vehicle needs and enjoy a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.

Modern car tires may be extremely tough, but they can still occasionally become damaged or wear down prematurely. Every safety-conscious driver should keep a close eye on the condition of their tires. If you ever notice the following warning signs, visit your local Mitsubishi dealership without delay to have new tires installed. UNEVEN WEAR AND TEAR Various factors, such as steering, braking, and weight distribution, cause car tires to wear down unevenly. Issues with the suspension or wheel alignment can accelerate how quickly tires become unbalanced in size. When tires are no longer uniform in wear and size, it leads to performance and safety problems. You can counter unevenness with regular tire rotation at your local dealership. However, if your tires become too uneven for rotation to fix, you may need to replace the entire set of four. DIMINISHED TREAD DEPTHS All tires need sufficient tread depth to securely grip road surfaces. When any of your tires reach 2/32 of an inch in tread depth, it’s usually time for a new set of tires. And during chilly winter months when the roads are wet and slippery, consider changing your tires a while before they reach 2/32 of an inch. PLUMMETING AIR PRESSURE It’s considered good practice for drivers to check the air pressure of their tires at least once a month. If you notice any of your tires inexplicably losing pressure, have a technician inspect it. The tire may have a hidden puncture or some other problem causing an air leak. RAPIDLY SPREADING CRACKS Over the years, as tire rubber dries out, cracks naturally start to appear in the sidewalls. This can become a safety threat if the cracks become excessive in number or size. SURFACE BLISTERS OR BULGES A visible bulge or blister on the surface of a tire might indicate serious internal damage. Sometimes an impact with a curb or pothole can rupture the internal tubing, causing air to escape and form a bulge. This usually means the tire has to go. DEEP CUTS OR GASHES The thick area on the treads of a tire can tolerate some small cuts without necessarily compromising the tire’s strength. Any particularly long or deep cut or gash, however, might threaten the tire’s structural integrity; you’ll probably need to have it repaired or replaced. EMBEDDED PIECES OF METAL Tires occasionally pick up nails, screws, and other pieces of metal from the road. While checking the air pressure, also inspect your tires for any such embedded objects. It’s best to have an embedded object removed at once to see how deeply it penetrated. Have your tires examined and rotated or replaced today by experienced technicians Mike Kelly Mitsubishi. We’re a locally trusted full-service dealership offering a terrific range of vehicles and maintenance services.