Posts by dakotaridgeauto

In Littleton, CO, the days when Littleton drivers changed their spark plugs every couple of years has ended. Back in the day, spark plugs really did wear out that often. A couple of things are different now… First, spark plugs are made of better materials that last longer for Littleton drivers and they’re designed better.…

Wiper blades may not be the most exciting topic for most Littleton residents – but they are pretty important. Most of us Littleton residents have had an experience when a sudden snow or rain storm hits while we’re driving; then when we turn on the wipers – nothing but streaks. This can be especially disconcerting…

Question What are the signs that I need a brake job? Answer Signs of brake problems often fall into one of two categories: making noise or a pulsation in the brake pedal.  Let’s start with the noise. Most brake pads have an audible brake wear indicator.  This is a small piece of metal that rubs…

During the colder weather months, drivers find themselves using more windshield washer fluid. Street surfaces are generally sloppier and can kick up snow, salt, mud, and grime that require washer fluid to help out your windshield wipers. You might be tempted just to pick up the cheapest blue fluid you can find, but sometimes that’s…

When you step on the accelerator, you expect your vehicle to speed up, not slow down.  But, what if it doesn’t?  That can be a big problem. The answer may be a problem with the sensor that helps your vehicle determine that the proper mix of air and fuel for your engine.  It’s called the…

Question My name is Suzanne.  We were taking a camping trip over a three-day weekend.  About halfway to our campsite, the transmission went out on our SUV.  It took all weekend to get towed out and get back home. What can I do to prevent transmission problems in the future? Answer Transmission repairs can be…

This fuel saving tip for Littleton residents is so simple you won’t believe it. It has to do with your gas cap. The first thing is to make sure it’s screwed on tight. If it’s loose, gas vapor will be constantly leaking out – reduced fuel economy. This could cause the check engine light to…

Today’s Dakota Ridge Auto post focuses on the importance of protecting your mass air flow sensor or MAF. Air and fuel are mixed together to be burned in your engine. The amount is controlled by how hard you press on the accelerator or by external factors like climbing hills or hauling loads. Based on how…

When Littleton drivers take a corner in their vehicle, the outside wheels have a slightly longer distance to go than the inside wheels. That means that the outside wheels have to turn a bit faster than the inside. The piece of mechanical wizardry that makes this possible for is called the differential. The differential allows…