Milstead Collision Blog

Professional Paint Repair Looks Better

Michelle — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 08:38:20 -0500

Having a brand-new vehicle is awesome. The stares you get, the shiny new paint, that new car smell. Well, like with everything else, that new car look wears out and lose it appeals over time. Keeping your vehicle looking like new is possible with expert and professional auto paint repair done by Milstead Collision in Spring, TX. Scratches and dents on your vehicle detract from the appearance of your vehicle. Chipping paint becomes rust, causing more severe issues. Auto paint repair service is the solution.

Professionally done auto paint makes your vehicle stand out in a crowd. Auto paint repair can be done after a collision, to refresh your old car or just upgrading the look of your vehicle. Your car will be restored back to its factory appearance.

Auto Paint Repairs Can Be Done for the Following Issues:

Touchups
Bumper Scratches
Paint Chips
Major Paint Scrapes
Restoration
Full Auto Body Repaint

Your car gets scratched and dents that are sometimes beyond your control. So once the scratches appear, it is our responsibility to repair it. No one wants their car to have scratches as it spoils the look of the car. Paint repair helps us to save on big damages that may happen if initial care is not taken. Don’t let that tiny scratch on your car get bigger and de-value your vehicle. Even though it might look like nothing right now, just think about what time will do to that small scratch. If you are planning on selling your vehicle, thatsmall imperfection will make itself known to any potential customers and dropping the offer price immediately.

Professional Paint Repair in Spring, TX

From severe scratches that remove a layer of paint to annoying rust spots, Milstead Collision in Spring, TX knows exactly how to make your vehicle’s paint job look brand new. Our certified painters can repair any exterior inconsistencies and use the latest computerized technology to find the perfect paint match.Our experienced and dedicated team really knows what they are doing. We give you high quality paint repair in Spring, TX. Call 281-363-1101 today to schedule an estimate and get your vehicle's paint shining like new.

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Should I Warm Up My Engine Before Driving?

Michelle — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 10:58:07 -0500

We’ve all heard it before, always warm up your car before driving. Is it really necessary though? The truth is, nowadays there is no need whatsoever to warm your car’s engine before driving. Since todays modern vehicles have a fuel injection system which replaced carburettors, your vehicle doesn’t require warm up before driving. The fuel injection system provides a perfectly combustible mixture at all temperatures and provide normal throttle response at all times.

The only time when it can be considered important to warm up your car for some time before driving is during winter or icy climates in which you may need heat inside the car to clear the windshields for visibility and safety. This is the only situation when the additional use of fuel and risk of lubricant contamination are worth it. Aside from that, you can just drive away and stop wasting fuel. Of course, this doesn't mean that you should step on it as soon as you get on the road. To avoid unnecessary wear, it's best to gain speed slowly and gradually.

Here are some facts and myths about the topic.

Myth - It’s a good practice to warm up my engine before driving.
Fact - The best way to bring your engine up to operating temperature is to gently drive your car. By simply driving your car, the engine and its components will warm up faster which allows your car to run more efficiently.

Myth - Idling my engine can reduce engine wear.
Fact - Idling for long periods of time can potentially damage your engine and its components, including the cylinders, spark plugs, and exhaust systems. Today’s modern cars regulates how much fuel is needed when the engine is cold or warm. When you leave your engine idle, fuel is wasted and you increase the chance of fuel residue build up which can lead to poor engine performance.

Myth - Idling my car doesn’t harm me or my family.
Fact - A cold engine releases more unburned hydrocarbons which means more pollutants are being released into the environment.

Engine Repair in Spring, TX

Engines are most efficient when they operate in their optimum temperature range. Running an engine when it’s cold causes increased emissions of carbon dioxide and engine wear. Remember that idling the engine doesn’t put much heat into it, the car just remains cold for a long duration.

If you really need to warm up your car, especially when it's cold or raining outside, try driving off slowly. For answers to other auto repair questions you may have, contact Milstead Collision in Spring, TX or make an appointment online today!

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Why Repair a Cracked Windshield?

Michelle — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 08:42:48 -0500

Outside of car accidents, flying rocks and metal debris are the main culprits when it comes to windshield cracks. Chips and cracks to your windshield tend to happen regularly during daily driving, especially when travelling at higher speeds on the highway. If you ignore the windshield cracks, changes in the temperature over time will make it worse. If the crack is so big that it impacts your visibility when driving, then it is a safety hazard. Don’t ignore it or look around it to save time and money. Leaving the crack or chip and driving around with it is not an option. The cracked glass may be compromised, and the windshield is part of the safety system of the vehicle.

There are several reasons why driving around with a broken windshield isn’t wise.

If you are involved in a front-end accident, and you aren’t wearing a seatbelt, a windshield that is already cracked can give away, allowing an occupant to be thrown through.
When your airbag is triggered in an accident, your windshield serves as a backdrop that directs the inflated bag towards the vehicle occupant(s). A cracked windshield is unlikely to hold up to the force, which can possibly result in an ineffective airbag deployment leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
Cracked glass becomes weakened structurally, and during a rollover accident, your vehicle’s roof is more likely to collapse if the windshield doesn’t hold up to the weight as it was intended to.
A damaged windshield can shatter unexpectedly which may cause injuries to the occupants in the vehicle.

If your windshield has a small crack or chip, don’t wait to have it repaired. The crack can expand, or the damage may extend from the exterior pane of the glass and penetrate the interior and require a full windshield replacement. At Milstead Collision in Spring, TX, we specialize in fast and effective service.

Affordable Windshield Repair in Spring, TX

When your vehicle’s windshield gets cracked, your safest option is having the damage inspected promptly by the auto glass professionals at Milstead Collision. We have the training, equipment, and know-how to get the windshield repairs done right while restoring your peace-of-mind.

Don’t risk your safety, and the safety of your passengers by driving around with a cracked windshield. If it's time for you to get your windshield repaired or replaced, stop putting it off! Make an appointment today to get your car back in top condition. Milstead Collision in Spring, TX is here to make sure you have a great view at all times.

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We're I-CAR Certified! - What Does That Mean?

Michelle — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 10:15:31 -0500

Collision repair is more about making sure that your vehicle is safe and structurally sound before you get back on the road as opposed to improving the look after an accident. That’s why you should trust Milstead Collision in Spring, TX for all your auto body and accident repair needs. We’re I-CAR certified which means that our technicians have been trained to the highest industry standards when it comes to collision repair work.

What is I-CAR?

I-CAR is a not-for-profit organization that provides training and knowledge to perform thorough, and safe repairs. Formed in 1979 from collaboration of six different sectors of the collision repair industry they service all segments of the industry including:

• Collision repair
• Insurance
• Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)
• Education, training and research
• Tools, equipment and supply
• Related industry services

Why is I-CAR Recognition So Important?

When it comes to collision repair, safety is king. If repairs are done incorrectly or are incomplete it put you and other drivers at risk. Drivers expect that when they have their vehicle returned it will be safe and able to operate as normal. With that said, the industry is changing constantly with new tools, processes, and changing materials of newer vehicles.

Now more than ever it is important to have the most up to date training and expertise to deal with the changing market. I-CAR’s ongoing training programs ensure that our technicians stay up to date with the most current techniques and technologies while maintaining solid safety standards. If you see the I-CAR logo on the wall of an auto body repair shop or on their website, you know they have received the highest level of skill, training, and excellence in the business.

Quality Collision Repair in Spring, TX

At Milstead Collision, our staff has the necessary training to ensure your vehicle is fixed the right way, the first time. We take pride in the level of work we can achieve and offer a lifetime warranty on all paint and body work. If you've been in an auto accident, come see us for a free estimate. Call us at 281-363-1101 or schedule your appointment today!

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When to Replace or Repair Your Windshield

Michelle — Thu, 27 Dec 2018 15:32:10 -0600

It’s almost never your fault — you’re just driving down the interstate, minding your own business, and then, out of nowhere, a piece of gravel flings into your windshield at peak speed. No matter how far you drive behind other vehicles, windshield damage can happen to the best of us. What to do next depends on the extent of the damage.

If the crack in your windshield can be covered with a one-dollar bill, a repair is likely feasible. This is great news, as a repair is generally more affordable than a total windshield replacement.

If your technician determines that a repair is possible, the process will likely involve filling the chipped area with a specially formulated resin to blend with the resin on the top layer of your windshield. The technician may drill small holes around the crack to prevent the crack from worsening over time. For this reason, you should have your windshield repaired immediately before the damage gets worse.

However, if the chip or crack is significant enough to impair your vision or consists of more than three cracks, a replacement is likely necessary. Significant windshield damage that warrants replacement should be addressed sooner rather than later. If the damage is severe enough to require total replacement, it is likely impeding the driver’s ability to see clearly. In some places, it is even against the law to drive with a cracked windshield.

Although do-it-yourself kits are available for windshield repair, these are not recommended. It’s nearly impossible to replicate the resin injection technique used by trained professionals, and the structural integrity of your windshield is far too important to risk a poorly done repair.

Trust Milstead Collision for Quality Windshield Repair in Waco, TX

If you’ve found yourself in need of a windshield repair or replacement, the expert technicians at Milstead Collision are here to help. Since 1971, our ASE-certified mechanics have been providing quality automotive repair in The Woodlands and Spring, TX. Call us today or schedule your appointment online!

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What to Do After an Automobile Accident

Michelle — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 13:56:13 -0500

An automobile accident can be an extremely stressful situation for any driver, no matter their number of years on the road. While getting in a fender bender is the last thing that you want to have on your mind, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected. To help you be ready in case of an unforeseen collision, the repair experts at Milstead Collision in Spring, TX have compiled this list of three important steps to remember.

Move to Safety

One of the first steps you should take after being in an auto accident is to move your car to safety. For example, if you are driving on the freeway, you will want to drive to the nearest exit or off to the shoulder, if possible. You will also want to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Moving your car out of the flow of traffic will help keep you and other motorists safe and also prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Contact Emergency Services

Once you have moved the vehicles involved in the crash out of the roadway, it’s time to check for any injuries, call the police, and contact emergency services if needed. A towing company can arrive on the scene to take your car to the nearest auto body collision center. With the help of a team of certified collision repair experts, you can get your car back on the road again in no time.

Exchange Important Information

If other motorists were involved in your collision, you should be sure to exchange information with anyone who was affected by the accident. For example, you will need to obtain the insurance information, full name, and contact information of the vehicle’s owner. Additionally, you should also note the make, model, color, and license plate number of every car. You can also take plenty of pictures for the record. This information will be used by your insurance company during the claims process.

Milstead Collision is Here to Help You Repair

In the aftermath of an accident, things can become overwhelming and potentially confusing. Moving to safety, exchanging information, and contacting emergency services are just the first steps to remember. When you’re ready to begin the collision repair process, reach out to the professionals at Milstead Collision in Spring, TX. We have the expertise to get your car, truck, SUV, or commercial vehicle back to pristine condition. Simply call or schedule your appointment online, and we’ll handle the rest. Don’t let an accident ruin your day. Milstead Collision is here for you!

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What to Do When Your Parking Brake is Stuck

Michelle — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 16:53:55 -0500

Have you ever gotten a little too excited using your parking brake? At some point, most of us pull up just a little too hard and get our brake lever jammed. There are several situations that require a little extra braking power. Knowing when and how to use your brake will help you avoid sticky situations.

When should I use my parking brake?

If you drive a manual transmission you might use your emergency brake every time you park your vehicle. You might even be using it when you are driving! Those of us with automatics might only use our e-brakes when we are parked on a hill. In reality, you should use your parking brake all the time!

When we park our vehicles it engages a device known as a parking pawl. This metal pin goes into a ring attached to the transmission. When in park, this pawl prevents the shaft in your transmission from turning. Parking pawls can break causing your vehicle to roll away. A parking brake is an added safeguard which can prevent your vehicle from moving even if the pawl breaks. You should use your parking brake as much as possible. It won’t hurt your vehicle and adds a little peace of mind that your vehicle won’t roll away.

How does my parking brake work?

Your emergency braking system is connected to your rear brakes. A series of cables connect to the hand lever in your vehicle. When you pull up on this lever, the brakes are engaged. Most e-brake systems are equipped with a button that releases the brakes and allows you to lower the lever.

What causes my parking brake to get stuck and what do I do?

One big issue with parking brakes is corrosion. Water and dirt can cause cables to erode. This can cause your parking brake to fail, cables to snap, and brake pads to stick to the wheels. If you want to avoid stuck brakes, use your emergency brake on a regular basis to ensure corrosion hasn’t occurred.

The e-brake can also freeze in place. If the weather is cold and wet, it is very likely that your e-brake has simply frozen in place. This can be resolved by turning on your vehicle and letting it warm up.

Another reason your emergency brake gets stuck is pulling it too hard. Don’t treat your e-brake lever like a strength test from a carnival game. It works just as well without all the effort. When you pull your lever too hard, it can cause your brakes to become stuck against the wall of your wheel drums.

To release a stuck brake you can do several things. If it is safe to do so, you can try rocking the vehicle back and forth or manually getting under the vehicle to pull the cables. You can also try setting and releasing the brake multiple times in the hopes of knocking the brakes free. If all of these methods fail, a tow truck might be in your future.

The best way to deal with a stuck parking brake is to avoid having one. Maintain the system with regular service and make sure you use your parking brake often. This will help prevent corrosion and let you know if something in the system needs attention. Also, remember to take it easy when you engage and disengage the lever. It a safety feature, not a contest!

What You Need to Know Before Buying New Tires

Michelle — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 16:51:02 -0500

I can think of several things I would rather buy, but it looks like a new set of tires is going to be at the top of the list. There are many factors to consider before making this investment. Here is a quick guide to finding, buying, and maintaining your new tires.

Do you need new tires? Take a close look at your tires and determine if you actually need new tires. Tread is the best place to look. You can measure the depth using an old penny or by looking at the tread wear indicators built into most tires. If your tread is worn down to less than 2/32 of an inch you need new tires.

Who to buy new tires from can be a challenge. One option is the car dealer, but they are often the most expensive. You will have better luck with a tire retailer or local auto shop. Always check for promotions and coupons going on in your area. Tire sellers will often run specials on mounting, balancing, and rotating tires when you purchase a new set of tires from their location.

Now it is time to select the right size tire. Most tires are branded with a number that tells you all about the product you are about to purchase. For example, P195/70R15 43H M+S, shows you the type, width, aspect ratio, diameter, tire speed rating, and indicates the tire is an all-season tire. That’s a lot of information in a small space! For most of us, these numbers can be confusing and a little intimidating. The good news is most tire shops offer a handy tool that lets you select your vehicle make, model, and year and the tool finds the tires that will fit your vehicle.

Now you know what tires will fit and where to look for them, but what tire is going to fit into your life? Weather, driving habits, and your own personal preference can all play a role in making this decision. If you live in an area that gets snow you might consider an all-season or winter tire. But if you experience sun all year round this might not be the best choice. Know what type of tire you want! Do you need high-speed performance, a comfortable ride, traction in snow, durability in high temperatures, or the ability to carry heavy loads?

Once you purchase your perfect set of tires, don’t forget to protect your investment. Regular maintenance is key. After your tires have been selected and mounted by a professional technician, you will want to make sure to keep your tire pressure in check. Always refer to the specifications for your particular tire but PSI should normally be 30-35. Tire rotations, wheel alignments, and tire balancing will also be regular maintenance items you should keep in mind.

I hope this helps you make your next tire purchase. Remember to check your tread to determine if you need new tires, pick a trustworthy dealer, and hunt down those deals. The right type of tire can change your driving experience and deliver the results you want. With proper care and preparation, your new tires can take you anywhere and with proper maintenance, you can make them last.

Be Aware of Your Spare

Michelle — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 09:24:01 -0600

Do you have a spare tire in your car? If you have to think twice about that question, I bet you either don’t have one or the spare you have needs attention. Your spare tire is one of the most important accessories on your vehicle, but it is often the most neglected.

If you never check your spare tire, it might not be useful when you need it. Here are some general steps you should take to make sure your spare tire will be ready when disaster strikes.

Think about the most basic thing you check on your tires. That’s right, the pressure on your spare tire should be checked on a regular basis. Most tires should read between 30 and 35 PSI. This could change depending on the type of spare your vehicle is equipped with. A compact spare tire referred to as a donut, could require as much as 60 PSI. Always check your owner’s manual for appropriate inflation guidelines.

Not all vehicles have a spare tire and most vehicles won’t have a new one. If your car is older or maybe you bought it second hand, you will need to watch out for two things. Check the manufacture date on the sidewall of the tire. Believe it or not, tires have expiration dates. A tire that is older than 6 years old becomes substantially more likely to fail. A spare tire might last you as long as 10 years, but a safe bet is to replace it with a new one.

The second thing to watch out for is the condition of the spare tire. In the case of older vehicles, the spare has often been used or is actually the old patched tire from a previous mishap on the road. Examine the tire carefully. If you notice worn down tread, cracks, scarred side walls, or plugs you might want to replace your spare with one you can depend on.

Now that you have a spare that is in good condition, you will want to follow some rules to keep you safe using it. Remember spare tires are only meant to be used in emergencies, not as your everyday tire. You should only travel about 50 miles on your compact spare. You also want to avoid the highway. Most donut tires should only be used while going less than 50 mph.

How to Increase Your Gas Mileage

Michelle — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 09:17:28 -0600

Don’t you hate it when you try to find ways to save on gas and the first response you get is “drive less”? If that was an option, I wouldn’t be looking up solutions. Unfortunately, we all depend on our vehicles and we all have to drive. Which means we all have to buy gas. But how can we do all this and still save money?

You can’t make it far in search results without coming across dozens of tips on how to make your gas go further. In case you’ve missed out, here are some of the best tips I’ve found on how to save.

Drive Less- just kidding!

Braking and Accelerating- Nothing is more taxing on your gas bill than excessive braking and acceleration. Steady is the name of the game. If you want to save money at the pump, don’t drive like it’s a race. Only brake when you need to and do so gradually. Also, avoid sudden accelerations that eat up gas and cost you money.

Wind Resistance- an open window or a sunroof can be the highlight of a spring day but the resistance created could be upping your gas bill.

Less Run Time- Decrease the amount of time you let your vehicle sit and run to warm up or cool down. You may have to suffer through a couple of minutes of cold temperatures or a blazing hot seat in the summer but it could save you some gas money.

Lighten the Load- Do you still have that cinder block in the trunk from winter? Take it out! Anything you can do to lighten the load of your vehicle will decrease your gas bill. Don’t go overboard. Keep the doors on and by all means, leave the seats where they are!

Check Your Tires- Believe it or not, some vehicle maintenance can save you dollars at the pump. An underinflated tire can produce more drag against the road surface and increase the amount of gasoline you use. Another maintenance to consider is tuning up your engine, changing filters, and having your wheels aligned. You would be amazed how many little things in your vehicle could save you money!

These are just some of the things you can do to save money at the pump. I hope these tips will be useful and wish you luck in finding more tips on your own. Remember, it’s all about the little things like properly maintaining your vehicle and driving with the windows up. We can’t stop driving, which means we can’t stop buying gas. All we can do is find ways to make our dollars and gallons go further.

Tire Maintenance for Beginners

Michelle — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 09:36:03 -0600

How much do you remember about tire maintenance from your driver’s education class? I bet you don’t remember much. Most courses cover the rules of the road, not how to maintain a vehicle. As a new driver, there are many things to learn. Taking care of your car is one of those things. Let’s start with the one part of your vehicle that touches the road, your tires.

That’s right, your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touch the road. That makes them an important safety feature, a factor in fuel economy, and a crucial part of your vehicle’s maintenance. I want to make sure that you can take care of your tires and make them last!

Know how to check your tire pressure! Low tire pressure is the leading cause of tread damage, blowouts, and premature wear. To check your tire pressure all you need is a tire pressure gauge. Check your pressure by removing the cap from your valve stem and inserting the gauge. Most tires have a recommended pressure of 30-35 PSI. If you want to be sure; check your owner’s manual, the sticker on your door jam, or look up the pressure recommendation for your specific tire. If your pressure is not within the recommended range you should add or remove air to reach proper inflation.

You need to know when to have routine maintenance performed. Your tires should be rotated on a regular schedule. Your owner’s manual can give you a suggested maintenance routine or you can ask your local auto mechanic for advice. Tire rotation involves moving your tires and wheels to different positions on your vehicle. This will allow your tire tread to wear down evenly. It also gives your mechanic a chance to double check your tire pressure and take a quick look at your brakes.

Tire maintenance plays a big role in maximizing tire life but no tire will last forever. No matter how well you take care of your tires or how you drive, your tires are affected by time. Natural oils in rubber will evaporate over time causing cracks and damage. Tire maintenance is about keeping tires safe and making them last longer. If your tires make it hazardous to drive, it’s time to get them replaced.

What Do the Belts in My Car Do?

Michelle — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 09:28:03 -0600

Your vehicle is made of many different parts. In fact, a single vehicle can have 30,000 components or more! With so many parts, it’s hard to keep track of what they all do. In order to maintain your vehicle’s performance, your belts are something you should be familiar with.

They might not be good at keeping your pants up but the belts in your car play a big role in your vehicle’s performance. The major belts in your vehicle are the serpentine belt and timing belt.

Serpentines are responsible for power steering pumps, cooling fans, injection pumps, air conditioning, and a variety of other functions depending on your vehicle. Sometimes serpentine belts can do it all!

With one long snaking path, the serpentine belt winds in and out of several different components in your vehicle. It is made of extremely durable rubber with a smooth side controlling some parts and a ribbed side controlling others. If this belt breaks you will hear a squealing noise, your engine may overheat, and your power steering will stop working.

Timing Belts connect the upper engine to the lower engine. They are often called camshaft belts because they control the camshaft. Camshafts control the opening and closing of valves. Timing belts are equipped with specifically spaced teeth to control the frequency of valve openings and closures.

A bad timing belt can cause the valves to remain open and be struck by the pistons. This can cause a lot of damage, so you want to make sure you know the signs of a bad timing belt. Common signs include Engine misfires, leaking oil, trouble starting the engine, and ironically a ticking noise.

These belts are important to the operation of your vehicle and will give you plenty of signs that they need replacing. If you want to keep your belts running smooth, give them a quick check for cracks and wear. You can also consult your owner’s manual for estimated lifespans on your belts or take your vehicle into your local auto shop for inspection.

Top Performance Upgrades

Michelle — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 09:55:11 -0600

Let's talk about automotive performance. This term means a lot of things to a lot of people... from better handling, more speed, more off-road or track capability or even better fuel economy. For the purposes of this list, performance means one thing; getting where you are going sooner. Consider the following top pick performance upgrades if you want to put more power to the ground:

Cold-air Intake - Factory air boxes are restrictive and are usually more about packaging under the hood than feeding your engine much-needed air. A less restrictive intake is an instant power adder.
Bigger Throttle-body - The intake feeds the throttle body, the modern equivalent of the carburetor. The more air and fuel you can stuff into the engine the more power you can make. A higher CFM throttle-body allows more air to pass through your engine.
Forced Induction - Turbos and Superchargers essentially have the same purpose; to stuff more air into your engine by creating pressure. Whether you create pressure with a belt, like a supercharger, or by turning a turbine with exhaust gas like a turbo, the end result is the same. Big power.
Controllers - Your onboard computers have a lot of extra power locked up by the manufacturer. You can free up this extra power with a "chip" or power programmer. With a programmer, you can also change transmission shift points, fuel injection curves and other parameters that return better performance as well as deriving telemetry information for fine-tuning your results.
Free flow exhaust - You get more power from pushing more air into your engine, but if you can't get rid of the exhaust, you can't make room for the next air and fuel charge. Free flowing exhaust systems get rid of the old, burnt stuff to make room for the new stuff. Simple physics for big power.
Better Grip - As the saying goes, "smoke ain't speed." If you are going to make big power you have to get it to the ground or all you will do is make a bunch of tire smoke while sitting stock still. With every power upgrade you settle on, make sure you have the matching rubber to get it to the road.

Potent power can be just an upgrade away and there are many products on the market to help you get the horsepower and torque you are looking for. Start with this list to get the most bang-for-the-buck right out of the box.

Give Your Family the Gift of Safety - New Tires

Michelle — Thu, 14 Dec 2017 10:03:06 -0600

We are the land of the man (or woman) who has everything. We have electric dog nail trimmers, vacuums that work without your help and phones with more computing power than a fleet of space shuttles. With all this great and not so great stuff, it's getting harder and harder to give a great gift. Before you go flailing around for a gift nobody wants or needs just to say you have something to wrap, consider the gift of safety; a new set of tires for a friend or family member.

Maybe you think this gift won't be appreciated. After all, tires don't have the appeal of a diamond pendant or a 6-way adjustable cyclo-massage equipped lounger. Actually, though, a new set of tires is so much more.

Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. Better tires mean safer handling and what could show your deepest feelings for someone you love like saving their lives with more capable handling.
And speaking of handling, giving the gift new tires means passing along a more confident ride. The right tires can make a big difference in handling capability, which in turn means more safety. It's like the safety and handling circle of life.
The holidays are all about peace and a new, high-quality set of tires can cut down on road noise, vibration, and harshness which can take the fun out of driving. A peaceful ride means better conversations with passengers, more musical enjoyment and a joyful break from the noise of the outside world.
Which brings us to joy… we as a society love to drive and great tires are a key component in delivering the joy of driving to someone you care about.
And then there is commitment… the gift of new tires is an affirmation you are dedicated to the safety, peace, and joy of the recipient.

You may have never considered giving the gift of safety to a friend or loved one during this season of giving. It could be argued if you really care about the person you are buying for, then a new set of rollers for their ride may be the best way to say you care. When it all comes down to it, isn't caring what giving is all about?

Car Maintenance Items you Should Always Leave to the Professionals

Michelle — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 10:08:00 -0600

It used to be as common as falling leaves in autumn for people to work on their own cars. And while this red-blooded American pastime has not completely disappeared from our world, the expense and complexity of newer cars make some repairs best left to the professionals.

Here is a quick list of, "don't try this at home"' auto repairs:

1. Check Engine Diagnostics - With everyone from big box parts stores to smartphone app developers making it possible to talk to the computer in your car, many drivers think they can deal with a check engine light themselves. Here's the problem: many check engine codes are vague and require more sophisticated equipment to really get to the bottom of the story. And please, don't just turn the light off thinking you will fix the problem. This is like trying to cure a heart attack by unplugging the EKG. Let the pros read the codes, apply their educated ability to decipher the codes and get the root cause of the problem cured.

2. Tire Rotation - Yes, you can easily jack up your car and swap the wheels around. But a tire rotation service also includes re-balancing the tires, checking for uneven wear and looking for sidewall and tread damage. All of these things require a trained eye and expensive equipment. Rotate your own tires and you take a chance on continuing to drive on unsafe, unbalanced tires. This is an inexpensive maintenance item - leave it to the pros.

3. Air Conditioning Fill-up - So you think getting a can of Freon from your local parts place and pumping it into the AC system is a cure for your problematic climate control system? Think again. Your air conditioning system is a sealed system, which means if you need Freon, something is leaking. Filling the system without fixing the problem is a band-aid. And if you don't have the right amount of compressor lube in the system, adding Freon can restart your compressor and burn it up. If you need to get your cool under control, leave the job to the professionals.

4. Internal Engine Repair - You may very well understand the internal combustion engine in all of its glory, but newer engines have incredibly tight tolerances requiring specific fastener torque on many of the nuts and bolts. Add electronics, fuel injection, multiple cams and the stack of other new tech and even if you have experience building that Chevy 350 with your dad when you were a kid when it comes to modern cars leave the engine repairs to the professionals.

5. Suspension Repairs - Your suspension keeps your car between the lines and is a big part of what makes your car safe. When you install new components you invariably mess up the alignment specs, which then makes your car a safety hazard and eats up your tires. For your safety and the longevity of your tires, make sure to trust a professional to upgrade or repair your suspension.

Car owners these days have access to almost any automotive part with a click and a credit card. But while wiper blades, headlight bulbs and other minor maintenance and repair items are still great for the do-it-yourself crowd, the complexity of newer vehicles nearly always requires the careful hands of a seasoned professional. Take care of the light work yourself if you're game but leave the heavy lifting to the folks who make a living keeping cars, trucks, and SUVs in ship shape condition.

Will You Bet On Your Brakes?

Michelle — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 10:39:00 -0600

Brakes are one of the most important parts of your vehicle. They can mean the difference between being able to stop when the vehicle in front of you stops short and getting into an accident. Here are some helpful tips and information you can use to keep your brakes in tip-top shape.

Preventative maintenance is key when it comes to your brakes. You should not ride your brakes if possible. This means keeping your foot off the brake unless you are needing to stop. You should also only slam on your brakes if it is an emergency. As for the parking brake, it is only supposed to be used for... you guessed it… parking.

These tips alone can help with preventing wear and tear of your brakes. You should also routinely have your brake fluid checked and replaced when it is recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Even if you don’t notice problems with your brakes, they are a part of your vehicle that you don’t want to skip maintenance on. You should have them routinely checked.

Knowing how to maintain your brakes is great, but there will come a time when you will need new ones.

How will you know that your brakes need to be changed?

One of the easiest ways to know you may need them check is if your brake warning light is on, this is your vehicles way of sensing and telling you the brakes need to be checked.

Another sign is when your brake starts going to the floor or gets “soft”.

When using your brake, you should not hear squealing, grinding, or any noise that is like nails on a chalkboard. These noises can mean your brakes are worn out!

Shaking and vibrations coming from your brakes are another sign.

If you count on your brakes to do their job, watch for the indicator above. Here at Milstead Automotive, we want to treat your family like ours by keeping you safe on the road. Come by or schedule your appointment with us for brakes and all your tire and auto repair needs.

Holiday Travel Tips

Michelle — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 10:49:33 -0600

Few things typify the holidays like hitting the road to share the magic of the season with family and friends. But with the road choked with other drivers, winter weather hazards, and long empty stretches of sleepy asphalt, a holiday road trip can quickly turn ugly.

Keep the joy meter pegged by taking a few precautions to prepare for your trip.

1. Get Your Pre-drive ZZZZZs - Drowsy driving is a largely unheralded hazard, taking a back seat to more socially active no-no's like texting and drinking while driving. A sleepy driver is a gigantic hazard to themselves, passengers and everyone on the road. Make sure you are well rested for the drive and you will find the trip much safer and more enjoyable.

2. Secure the Figgie Pudding - In the event of a collision, packages, food, electronics and other holiday items become airborne hazards and can cause significant harm to passengers. Ensure everything you carry to grandma's house is secured, preferably in the trunk or behind the back seat, so flying objects are less likely if the worst happens.

3. Check Your Tires - Visually inspect your tires for damage. Make sure they are filled to the manufacturer's recommended pressure to maximize safety and fuel economy. Cold weather reduces tire pressure so even if you checked recently, check again. Also, make sure you have a good spare and the tools necessary to swap out a tire. A flat tire is an inconvenience, not having a spare or the right tools to install it is a holiday mirth ending nightmare.

4. Wipers, Lights and Defroster - Bottom line, when it comes to visibility, you want to be able to see and you want others to see you. Before you hit the highway, take your vehicle to your local auto service center and have them check your lights, wipers and defroster to make sure everything is in working order. Most repairs on these systems are cheap and can really make the trip more enjoyable during bad weather or after dark.

5. Roving Urgent Care - You never know what kind of minor health issue you may have to deal with on the road, so a first aid kit with bandages, Pepto, your favorite headache medicine, prescriptions you can't live without and an ace bandage will cover most short-term issues. Throw in an inexpensive compact LED flashlight and a pair of over-the-counter magnifying glasses for small work. Just knowing you have these things along can help give peace of mind when covering the miles.

6. Stop and Go - Before any road trip, you should have your battery and brakes inspected. A no-start situation when you are far from home can be a travel buzz kill, and a brake problem can kill more than your holiday buzz. Your trusted auto service center can check these things in less time than it takes to bake a pumpkin pie, and the confidence you will gain will more than pay for any necessary repairs.

The holidays are a magical time of year and holiday travel is as much a part of the celebration as the destination. Keep a smile on everyone's face and travel safely by using your noggin before you hit the open road.

Driving Safely with Nature

Michelle — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:53:20 -0500

North American roads cover millions of miles of landscape through habitats that vary from desert and grassland to mountain or forest and everything in-between. While we enjoy the freedom of the open road, we are nearly always crossing through the homes of wild creatures which may venture out on the road at the worst time possible.

Follow these tips to avoid a collision with our natural neighbors.

1. Pay Attention - It may seem like the most basic of instructions, but in our tech-crazy world too often we are looking at things other than the road. Don't let a quiet highway lull you into a sense of false security. An animal can wander onto the road at any moment. Keep your eyes alert and watch for movement. When driving between stands of trees or crops like corn, note an animal entering the road may seem to appear out of nowhere, with very little warning.

2. Improve Your Night Sight - Make sure your windshield is clean and clear, especially when night driving. Use your high beam headlight setting when there are no oncoming vehicles and watch for the telltale glow of eyes reflected from your lights. Be extra careful at dawn and dusk when visibility is compromised and wildlife is on the move.

3. Slow Your Roll - Keep your speed under 70mph (110kph) after dark. Going any faster means you are out running your headlights, which means you cannot react fast enough to an obstacle to stop before a collision. During the day, consider slowing down in known habitats or where animal crossings are indicated by road signs. Slowing down may cost you a few minutes, but that's a much smaller cost in time and money than a high-speed collision with an animal.

4. If the Inevitable Happens - If you cannot avoid an animal hit, stay in your lane and hold your brake pedal to the floor. Nearly every car on the road now has anti-lock brakes, which will not only stop you quickly but will allow you to maintain steering control. If you have time, lay on the horn. This can break a light-induced trance in the animal and cause them to run out of harm's way. Swerving to avoid an animal may expose you to a much more dangerous collision with other vehicles or cause you to lose control of your car. Nobody wants to hit an animal but saving your own life and those of your passengers is your first priority.

5. After the Incident - If you strike a small animal it is likely you and your car will be unscathed. Larger animals like deer, elk and alligators are more likely to do serious vehicle damage and can even result in serious injury to vehicle occupants. If you have a collision with an animal do not try to treat the animal. Hurt animals can be very dangerous. If the animal remains alive after the hit, stay in your car and call authorities. They will respond to the incident, file a report, and take care of the animal in the most humane way possible. Regardless of the condition of the animal, most states require you report a large animal hit, and your insurance company will want a police report so do not be tempted just to drive away, even if your car is capable of leaving the scene.

We are lucky to share our roads and our world with an untold number of creatures great and small. A little caution and preparedness can help us get where we are going safely while preserving the lives of the creatures whose homes we drive through every day on our way to work, school and play.

Driving is Dangerous

Michelle — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 11:02:07 -0500

Most of us at one point or another will experience a car crash of some kind. Believe it or not, driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do. Milstead Automotive understands what our customers go thru after an automobile crash. Here are a few tips on what to do from the moment of the accident until your vehicle is in the shop for repairs.

Move the vehicle out of the road or away from oncoming traffic!

So many injuries are sustained from secondary collisions. As soon as you safely can move your vehicle away from traffic so no one else and hit your vehicle or hit someone else while avoiding you. Once you are out of harm’s way, shift your car into park and turn on your hazard lights

Make sure everyone is ok.

That includes you, sometimes the shock and adrenalin can keep us going after a traumatic event. Don’t push it if you are hurt. Also, check passengers for injury and if you are able the other vehicles occupants for injuries. Never exit your vehicle if you might be injured or if doing so could cause harm to yourself or others.

Call the police or emergency services.

Even in a minor accident with no injuries always call the police or emergency services in your area. They can make sure you get to safety and provide medical assistance for anyone who needs it. They can also help with insurance documentation.

Gather as much information as you can for insurance.

Drivers and passengers names
Vehicle description
Driver’s license number
Insurance companies and policy numbers
Witness’s information
Location and time of accident
Police officers name and badge number
Pictures of your vehicle
Pictures of other vehicles
Pictures of crash scene

File your insurance Claim with your insurance company.

This will be contingent on where and who you have service with. You should always keep an insurance card in your vehicle or wallet so it is easily accessible after an accident.

Hopefully, the only thing hurt in the ordeal is your vehicle. In that case, you’ll either be car shopping if it was a total loss or headed to a collision repair center for an estimate on what it will cost. At Milstead, we would be glad to help you with this final step we offer a variety of collision and automotive repair services. Come see us at one of our Spring, TX locations. We will do our best to get you and your vehicle back on the road.

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Storing and Caring for Your Seasonal Wheels and Tires

Michelle — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 11:18:08 -0500

In many parts of the US and Canada, it is common to have two sets of wheels and tires to tackle seasonal differences in driving conditions. You know what to do with them while they are on your car, but what is the proper way to store the ones you put up for the season? Here are some tips to ensure your seasonal tires are ready to go when it is time to swap them out.

1. Clean Your Wheels - Contaminants and road grime can degrade the finish on your wheels while they are in storage. Before you put them away, clean your wheels with some mild detergent. Rinse them off and make sure they are completely dry before you put them away for the season.

2. Clean and Treat Your Tires - Tires are made of natural and synthetic rubbers and can dry out while in storage, causing dry rot and cracking which will have you looking for new tires too soon. Before putting them away, clean your tires with a liquid or foaming tire cleaner and wipe off any residue. Then apply a silicon-based spray, called tire dressing, to the rubber. This will soak into the rubber and prevent dry rot while keeping the rubber supple.

3. Check the Tire Pressure - You want to store your tires fully inflated. Underinflated tires placed on a hard surface can develop flat spots which translate into an annoying thump when they are back on the road. Usually, this is temporary, but keeping the tires properly inflated will help the rubber maintain its round shape while on the shelf.

4. Visually Inspect Everything - Check over the sidewalls, tread, and bead carefully to identify any damage or uneven wear. If tires are damaged you will have months to put a plan together for replacement instead of being faced with the expense on the day you want to put them back on your vehicle. If uneven tire wear exists, you can have your local tire center check your suspension, alignment and wheel bearings to correct the cause of the uneven wear before your swapped tires become the next victims.

5. Bag It Up - Once your tires are properly inflated, cleaned and dressed, slide a large heavy-duty lawn bag over each one and seal it by rolling the opening and taping the bag shut. This will allow you to open the bag up periodically to make sure the air pressure is staying consistent and will keep the silicone tire dressing from evaporating out of the rubber. It will also keep dust and grime from getting on your wheels and offer some protection from accidental bumps.

6. Tag Your Tires - Make sure you tag each tire with a grease pencil or tag each bag, to indicate which position the tire was on your vehicle. Tag the front left as FL, rear right as RR and so on. You want to put them back on the corner of the car they were removed from so you will not mess up your rotation schedule.

7. Stack 'Em Flat - Don't store the tires standing up. This can create flat spots. It can also allow them to roll around or fall over. Place a piece of plywood or a couple of 2x4s on the garage floor to keep them off the ground and then stack your wheels and tires horizontally.

Seasonal tires are a great way to get ready for changing road conditions or to get your vehicle ready for double duty on the track or off-road. Take care of each set of tires and wheels you own and get the most effective life for your money.