Top 5 Noises Your Car Makes That Sound Expensive… But Usually Aren’t

🚨 Top 5 Dashboard Lights You Should Never Ignore Your dashboard has more warning lights than a New Hampshire winter has potholes. Some are friendly reminders. Others are your car politely (or not so politely) asking for help. Here are the Top 5 dashboard warning lights you should never ignore—and what they’re trying to tell you. 1️⃣ Check Engine Light (The Most Famous, and Most Misunderstood) This little engine-shaped icon can mean many things, ranging from “your gas cap is loose” to “hey… something important is going on.” Common causes include: Faulty sensors Emissions issues Engine performance problems Loose or damaged gas cap 🔧 Good to know: Just because your car is still driving doesn’t mean everything is okay. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to reduced fuel economy—or bigger repairs down the road. 2️⃣ Brake Warning Light (This One’s a Big Deal) If the brake warning light comes on, your vehicle may be telling you: Brake fluid is low Brake pads are worn There’s an issue with the braking system 🚗 Why it matters: Your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety system. If this light stays on, it’s time to get things checked—promptly. 3️⃣ Temperature Warning Light (When Your Engine Is Feeling the Heat) This light usually means your engine is overheating, often due to: Low coolant Cooling system leaks Thermostat or water pump issues 🔥 Pro tip: If this light comes on, continuing to drive can cause serious engine damage. Pull over safely and let the vehicle cool down before calling for advice. 4️⃣ Battery / Charging System Light (Not Just a Battery Problem) This light doesn’t always mean you need a new battery. It can also indicate: Alternator problems Failing voltage regulator Loose or damaged wiring ⚡ Why ignoring it is risky: Once the charging system stops working, your car will eventually shut off—and it won’t restart without repairs. 5️⃣ ABS or Traction Control Light (Your Safety Tech Is Taking a Time-Out) These lights indicate an issue with systems designed to help you maintain control during sudden stops or slippery conditions. Common causes include: Faulty wheel speed sensors Brake system issues Electrical problems ❄️ Especially important in NH: These systems are critical for winter driving and emergency maneuvers. What Should You Do When a Warning Light Comes On? First—don’t panic. Second—don’t ignore it. Modern vehicles store detailed information that helps technicians pinpoint the problem quickly and accurately. At Tires Too in Londonderry, NH, we use professional-grade diagnostic equipment to identify the root cause of warning lights—so you’re not guessing or replacing parts you don’t need. Frequently Asked Questions (AEO-Friendly) Can I drive with a dashboard warning light on? Sometimes—but it depends on the light. Safety and temperature warnings should be checked immediately. Will clearing the light fix the problem? No. Clearing a light only resets the warning. If the issue remains, the light will return. How long does diagnostics take? Most diagnostic evaluations can be completed within the same day. When in Doubt, Get It Checked Your dashboard lights exist for a reason—and listening to them early often saves time, money, and stress later. 📍 Tires Too – Londonderry, NH 📞 Schedule a diagnostic evaluation today We don’t fix cars—we keep your life in seamless motion.

New Hampshire Vehicle Safety Inspections: What Changed & What It Means for You Frequently Asked Questions New Hampshire has ended the annual state safety inspection requirement for most vehicles. That’s a big change—and it’s raised a lot of good questions. Below, we break down what actually changed, what didn’t, and how this affects you as a vehicle owner. ❓ Did New Hampshire eliminate vehicle safety requirements? No. New Hampshire removed the annual inspection sticker requirement, but vehicle safety standards are still in effect. In simple terms: You are no longer required to get a yearly inspection sticker. Your vehicle is still required by law to be safe and roadworthy. ❓ What does “vehicle safety requirements are still in place” mean? It means your vehicle must still have properly functioning: Brakes Steering & suspension components Tires with safe tread depth Lights, signals, and wipers Windshield and mirrors Exhaust and emissions-related components If your vehicle is unsafe and contributes to an accident, breakdown, or roadside stop, the absence of an inspection sticker does not protect you from responsibility. ❓ Will I get pulled over for not having an inspection sticker? No—because inspection stickers are no longer required. However, you can still be stopped or cited for: Unsafe tires Inoperative lights Brake or steering issues Equipment violations The responsibility has shifted more directly to the vehicle owner. ❓ Is it still a good idea to have my car inspected? Absolutely—and arguably more important than ever. Annual inspections used to serve as a built-in reminder to check safety-critical systems. Without that reminder: Problems can go unnoticed longer Minor issues can turn into expensive repairs Safety risks can increase without obvious warning signs Think of inspections less as a “state requirement” and more as preventive maintenance for your safety and wallet. ❓ What’s the difference between a state inspection and a safety check at Tires Too? A state inspection was a pass/fail checklist designed to meet regulations. A Tires Too safety check is: Focused on your vehicle and how you drive it Designed to catch wear before it becomes a breakdown Explained clearly—no mystery, no pressure Our goal is to inform and advise, not surprise you later. ❓ If inspections aren’t required, how will I know when something is unsafe? Great question—and this is where professional inspections matter most. Many safety issues don’t announce themselves with warning lights or loud noises: Brake components can wear unevenly Suspension parts can loosen gradually Tires can age out before they wear out Rust can weaken critical components silently (hello, New England winters) Regular inspections help catch these issues before they affect safety or reliability. ❓ Does skipping inspections save money? Short term? Maybe. Long term? Usually not. Catching problems early often means: Less expensive repairs Fewer emergency breakdowns Better fuel economy Longer vehicle life Preventive inspections tend to cost far less than reactive repairs. ❓ What does Tires Too recommend now? We recommend continuing with regular safety and maintenance inspections, even without a state mandate. Many of our customers choose: Annual or semi-annual safety checks Inspections before long trips Seasonal checks (especially before winter) Not because the state says so—but because your safety, time, and peace of mind matter. ❓ Can Tires Too still inspect my vehicle? Yes. While state stickers are no longer required, we continue to offer: Safety inspections Maintenance inspections Pre-trip and pre-purchase inspections We’ll clearly explain what we see, what matters now, and what can wait. 🚗 The Bottom Line New Hampshire may no longer require annual safety inspections—but safe vehicles are still the law, and responsible maintenance is still the smartest move. At Tires Too, we don’t fix cars just to check a box. We help keep your life in seamless motion. If you have questions or want to schedule a safety check, we’re always happy to help.

Why Regular Vehicle Inspections Matter (Even if NH Stops Requiring Them) New Hampshire is considering eliminating the annual vehicle safety inspection requirement. While that may sound like one less thing to worry about, it also removes a built-in reminder to give your car the attention it needs. At Tires Too, we’ve always believed inspections aren’t about checking a box for the state—they’re about keeping your vehicle reliable, efficient, and enjoyable to drive. Think of it less like a test… and more like a wellness check for your car. Inspections Help Your Vehicle Last Longer Catch Small Issues Before They Become Big Repairs Most major automotive repairs don’t start as major problems. They begin as small, inexpensive issues that grow over time when left unnoticed. A regular inspection can catch things like: Brake pads that are wearing thin (before they damage rotors) Minor fluid leaks (before they turn into major component failures) Aging belts and hoses (before they leave you stranded) Addressing these early usually means lower repair costs and fewer surprises. Protects Your Tires and Suspension Your tires are one of the biggest investments on your vehicle—and inspections help you get the most life out of them. During an inspection, we look for: Uneven tire wear Alignment or suspension issues Proper tire inflation and tread depth Catching these issues early helps your tires last longer, improves handling, and even boosts fuel economy. Your car tracks straighter, rides smoother, and your wallet stays happier. Keeps Performance and Fuel Economy Where They Should Be When a vehicle is properly maintained, it simply works better. Inspections help ensure: Fluids are clean and at the correct levels Components are operating as designed Small inefficiencies don’t snowball into larger problems The result? A smoother ride, better gas mileage, and fewer “Was it always making that noise?” moments. Inspections Are Just as Good for the Driver Prevents Inconvenient Breakdowns No one schedules a breakdown—it just happens. Inspections reduce the chances of being surprised by identifying problems before they fail. While inspections can’t guarantee nothing will ever go wrong, they greatly reduce the odds of: Unexpected warning lights Sudden loss of braking or handling Being stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow Saves Money Over Time Preventative maintenance is almost always less expensive than reactive repairs. Regular inspections allow you to: Plan repairs instead of rushing into them Spread maintenance costs over time Avoid secondary damage caused by neglected components Bonus: a well-maintained vehicle also holds its value better if you plan to sell or trade it in. Gives You Confidence Every Time You Drive There’s real value in knowing your vehicle has been looked over by professionals who know what to watch for. Inspections provide: Confidence on long road trips Peace of mind during daily commutes Assurance that your vehicle is responding the way it should in everyday driving situations In short, fewer worries—and more enjoyable driving. Puts You in Control of Your Maintenance Without mandatory inspections, maintenance becomes a choice. Regular inspections help you stay in control instead of reacting to emergencies. You decide: What needs attention now What can be planned for later What fits your budget and timeline That’s a much better position to be in than making decisions under pressure. The Bottom Line: Inspections Are About Smart Ownership Even if New Hampshire no longer requires safety inspections, regular vehicle inspections remain one of the smartest things you can do for your car. They help your vehicle last longer, perform better, and cost less to own—while giving you confidence every time you turn the key. At Tires Too, we include complimentary multi-point safety checks with any service, because our goal isn’t compliance—it’s keeping your life in seamless motion. 📅 Schedule your next visit today and give your car th e attention it deserves

Brake pulsation—felt as a vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel—is one of the most common complaints customers bring back shortly after a brake job. In many shops, the default explanation is predictable: “Bad rotors,” “cheap parts,” or “warranty material.” That explanation is convenient. It’s also wrong in most cases. The uncomfortable truth is this: brake pulsation after a recent brake service is rarely caused by rotor quality. Instead, it’s almost always the result of rotor thickness variation caused by lateral runout at the hub—a condition created during installation, not manufacturing. The Misunderstood Cause of Brake Pulsation Modern brake rotors are manufactured to extremely tight tolerances. True “warped” rotors are rare. What drivers feel as pulsation is not warping—it’s uneven friction caused by thickness variation across the rotor face. So where does that thickness variation come from? It starts at the hub. If the hub surface has rust, corrosion, debris, or existing runout—and a new rotor is simply bolted on without correction—the rotor does not sit perfectly perpendicular to the hub. That lateral runout causes the brake pads to contact the rotor unevenly. Over time (often very quickly), brake material builds up unevenly on the rotor surface. The result: Disc Thickness Variation (DTV) Uneven friction transfer Brake pulsation that appears weeks—or even days—after a brake job At that point, the rotor gets blamed. But the damage was done at installation. Why “New Rotors” Alone Don’t Fix the Problem Replacing rotors without addressing hub runout is a temporary solution at best. In fact, installing new rotors on an uncorrected hub restarts the problem cycle: Rotor is installed with existing hub runout Pads apply uneven pressure Friction material transfers unevenly Thickness variation develops Pulsation returns This is why some vehicles seem to “eat rotors,” even when quality parts are used. The Proper Fix: Match Machining the Rotor to the Hub The only reliable way to eliminate lateral runout is to machine-match the rotor to the hub after installation. This process corrects the assembled runout of the hub-and-rotor combination, not just the rotor by itself. When done correctly: Lateral runout is eliminated Brake material transfers evenly Thickness variation is prevented Pulsation is avoided long-term This step is often skipped because it takes additional time, equipment, and understanding. But skipping it is exactly why so many “new brake jobs” fail. How Tires Too Auto Repair Performs Brake Service Correctly At Tires Too Auto Repair, we don’t just replace brake parts—we correct the root cause of brake pulsation. Every brake job follows a disciplined, repeatable process designed to eliminate installation-related failures. 1. Disassembly and Inspection We remove the calipers, old brake pads, and caliper brackets, inspecting all components for wear, corrosion, and damage that could affect brake performance. 2. Hub Preparation and Rotor Matching Old rotors are removed, and the hub surface is thoroughly cleaned of rust and debris. New rotors are installed and machine-matched directly to the hub, eliminating lateral runout before the vehicle ever leaves the bay. 3. Caliper Bracket Restoration Caliper brackets are bead blasted to remove rust and scale, ensuring smooth pad movement and even clamping force. 4. Proper Lubrication Brake grease is applied to caliper slides, pins, bushings, and all metal-to-metal contact points on the pads—critical steps often rushed or ignored. 5. Precision Reassembly Calipers are reinstalled and torqued to manufacturer specifications. Wheels are installed and lug nuts torqued correctly to avoid inducing new runout. 6. Fluid Check, Bedding, and Verification Brake fluid levels are checked and corrected as needed. Pads and rotors are properly bedded in, followed by a road test to confirm smooth operation and proper braking surface temperatures. Why This Matters—for Shops and Customers Alike Brake pulsation is not just an annoyance. It damages customer trust, increases comebacks, and leads to unnecessary warranty claims. When shops blame parts instead of process, the real problem never gets fixed. At Tires Too Auto Repair, we believe professional brake service means understanding why failures happen—and preventing them before they start. The Bottom Line If brake pulsation shows up shortly after a brake job, it’s probably not the rotors. It’s lateral runout that was never corrected, leading to uneven brake material buildup and thickness variation. Quality parts matter—but correct installation matters more. Tires Too Auto Repair doesn’t guess. We measure, correct, and verify—so brakes stop smoothly, consistently, and safely. If your vehicle is experiencing brake pulsation after recent service, or if you’re looking for a shop that does brake work the right way the first time, we’re here to help.

New Hampshire winters have a personality all their own. One day it’s dry pavement, the next it’s snow-covered back roads, icy intersections, and freezing morning commutes. That’s why choosing the right tires isn’t just about convenience — it’s about safety, control, and confidence behind the wheel. At Tires Too Auto Repair in Londonderry, NH, we’re often asked: “Do I really need winter tires?” “Aren’t all-season tires good enough?” Let’s break down the real differences between All-Season, All-Weather, and Winter Tires, and how each performs during a true New Hampshire winter. All-Season Tires: The Name Is a Little Misleading Best for: Mild climates and three-season driving All-season tires are designed to balance comfort, longevity, and performance in dry and wet conditions. They work well from spring through fall and are often the factory-installed tire on many vehicles. Pros: Smooth, quiet ride Longer tread life Good handling in dry and rainy conditions Cons in NH Winter Conditions: Rubber compounds harden in cold temperatures Reduced traction on snow and ice Longer stopping distances once temperatures drop below ~45°F Bottom line: All-season tires are a solid choice most of the year, but they are not designed for true winter driving. When snow, ice, and freezing temps arrive, their limitations show quickly. All-Weather Tires: A True Year-Round Option Best for: Drivers who want one tire year-round with better winter performance All-weather tires are often confused with all-season tires, but they are very different. All-weather tires are engineered to perform in colder temperatures and carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating, meaning they meet industry standards for winter traction. Pros: Better grip in cold weather than all-season tires Rated for snow traction No need to swap tires seasonally Cons: Tread life is typically shorter than all-season tires Not as capable as winter tires in deep snow or on ice Bottom line: All-weather tires are a great “middle ground” for New Hampshire drivers who want improved winter safety without the hassle of seasonal tire changes — especially if you mainly drive on plowed roads. Winter Tires: Maximum Safety When It Matters Most Best for: Serious winter driving, icy roads, and heavy snow Winter tires are purpose-built for cold temperatures. Their rubber remains flexible in freezing conditions, and their tread patterns are designed to grip snow, slush, and ice far better than any other tire type. Pros: Superior traction on snow and ice Shorter stopping distances Best control in extreme cold Cons: Must be removed when temperatures warm up Seasonal changeover required Faster wear if used in warmer weather Bottom line: If you regularly drive during snowstorms, on untreated roads, or early morning commutes, winter tires provide the highest level of safety and confidence — no compromises. Which Tire Is Right for You? The best tire choice depends on: Your daily driving habits How much winter driving you do Road conditions near your home and workplace Your comfort level driving in snow and ice That’s where professional guidance makes all the difference. Trust the Tire Professionals at Tires Too Auto Repair At Tires Too, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all recommendations. Our Tire Professionals take the time to understand your vehicle, your driving patterns, and New Hampshire’s unique seasonal challenges before recommending the right tire solution. Whether you’re deciding between all-weather tires or planning a dedicated winter tire setup, we’ll explain the pros and cons in plain language — and make sure your vehicle is prepared for whatever NH weather throws your way. Tires Too Auto Repair 📍 Londonderry, NH Serving Derry, Windham, Chester & Manchester We don’t fix cars — we keep your life in seamless motion.

Is Your Car Overheating? Cooling System Issues Explained Nobody likes a car that’s hotter than a New Hampshire summer. 🌡️ But here’s something many drivers don’t realize: cooling system problems don’t take the winter off. In fact, cold weather, road salt, and freeze-thaw cycles can be just as hard on your engine as July traffic with the A/C blasting. Your vehicle’s cooling system works year-round to regulate engine temperature. When it isn’t doing its job, overheating, breakdowns, and costly engine damage can follow—no matter the season. Let’s break down what causes overheating, why winter makes it worse, and how Tires Too in Londonderry, NH keeps your vehicle running cool and reliable. Common Causes of Engine Overheating 🔹 Low Coolant Levels Coolant (antifreeze) doesn’t last forever. Leaks, evaporation, or skipped maintenance can leave your engine unprotected. Low coolant means your engine can’t regulate temperature properly—leading to overheating or freezing. 🔹 Leaking Radiator or Hoses Cracks, corrosion, and weak hose connections often worsen during New England’s freeze-thaw cycles. A small leak can quickly turn into a big problem when temperatures swing. 🔹 Failing Water Pump Your water pump circulates coolant throughout the engine. If it’s worn or leaking, coolant flow slows or stops entirely—causing rapid overheating. 🔹 Stuck or Failing Thermostat A thermostat that’s stuck closed prevents coolant from flowing. That can cause overheating in the summer—or prevent proper warm-up in the winter. 🔹 Blocked Heater Core or Clogged Passages Sludge or corrosion can restrict coolant flow, especially in colder months. This not only affects engine temperature but can also leave you without heat when you need it most. Winter-Specific Cooling System Problems Cold weather brings a unique set of risks for your cooling system: ❄️ Coolant Freeze or Improper Mix Too much water or old antifreeze can freeze, expand, and crack radiators, engines, or hoses. The correct coolant mix is critical for New Hampshire winters. ❄️ Brittle or Cracked Hoses Rubber hoses become stiff and brittle in cold temperatures, increasing the risk of sudden leaks or failures. ❄️ Ice or Snow Blocking Airflow Ice or packed snow on the radiator or A/C condenser can block airflow, reducing cooling efficiency and putting extra stress on the engine. ❄️ Road Salt & Corrosion Salt speeds up corrosion on radiators, clamps, and fittings—often causing hidden leaks that only show up when it’s too late. Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to have your cooling system checked: Steam coming from under the hood Temperature gauge running hot or fluctuating Sweet or unusual antifreeze smell Coolant warning light Poor cabin heat in winter Ignoring these signs can lead to overheating, breakdowns, or even engine failure. How Tires Too Keeps Your Engine Running Cool At Tires Too in Londonderry, NH, we don’t believe in quick glances or guesswork. Our cooling system inspections focus on preventing problems before they leave you stranded, whether it’s August or February. We check: Coolant condition and proper freeze protection Radiator, hoses, clamps, and fittings Thermostat and water pump operation Signs of corrosion, leaks, or blockages Our goal is simple: keep your life in seamless motion, no matter what New England weather throws your way. Don’t Let Overheating Catch You Off Guard If your car is running hot—or you just want peace of mind before the next season—schedule a cooling system inspection at Tires Too today. 📍 Tires Too – Londonderry, NH Because your engine deserves to stay cool year-round. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

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