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SPRING VEHICLE MAINTENANCE


At Harper's Tire, we understand the importance of ensuring your vehicle is ready for the upcoming season. As spring arrives, it's the perfect time to give your vehicle the maintenance it deserves to keep you safe on the road.

Tire Check

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth for optimal traction. Our experts can inspect your tires for any signs of wear and tear, providing recommendations for replacements if needed.

Wheel Alignment

Spring is an ideal time to have your wheel alignment checked. Potholes and rough winter roads can impact alignment, affecting your vehicle's handling and tire wear. Our technicians can realign your wheels to ensure smooth and safe driving.

Fluids Inspection

From engine oil to brake fluid, our team can inspect and top up all essential fluids to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Regular fluid maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your vehicle's engine and overall performance.

Battery Test

Cold temperatures can take a toll on your car's battery. Before heading into spring, allow us to test your battery's health and ensure it is ready to handle the warmer weather ahead.

Wiper Blade Replacement

Spring showers are common, so ensuring your wiper blades are in top condition is essential for visibility. Let us inspect and replace your wiper blades to guarantee clear visibility during spring rains.

Brake Inspection

Don't overlook the importance of brake maintenance. Our technicians can check your brake system for wear and tear, making sure your vehicle can come to a safe stop when needed.

Prepare your vehicle for the season ahead with Harper's Tire's comprehensive spring maintenance services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and drive into spring with confidence.

Michelin X-Ice Snow 

Winter grip made to last

The MICHELIN X-Ice SNOW tire offers shorter ice and snow stopping distances thanks to the exceptional grip provided by having two types of full-depth 3D sipes for an increased claw effect on snow and ice and for long-lasting biting edges.

Improved hydroplaning and slush performance

The MICHELIN X-Ice SNOW tire offers better hydroplaning performance than its predecessors. The new aggressive winter tread design with increased void ratio and V-shaped tread pattern provides increased resistance to hydroplaning and enhanced snow, slush, and water evacuation.

Excellence in longevity

The MICHELIN X-Ice SNOW tire lasts up to one additional winter than the average of leading competitors.

The new tread design with interlocking 3D sipes combined with an innovative Evergrip Technology delivers long wear life by providing tread block rigidity and optimizing the tire's contact with the road surface during acceleration, braking and cornering.

60,000 Kilometer Manufacturer's Treadwear Limited Warranty


WHY YOU SHOULD GET AN AGM BATTERY

An AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery is a superior choice when compared to lead acid batteries for several reasons. Firstly, AGM batteries offer a much longer lifespan, making them a more cost-effective investment in the long run. They are designed to have a low self-discharge rate, meaning they can retain their charge for extended periods without needing a recharge. AGM batteries are also highly resistant to vibration and shock, making them more reliable and durable. Additionally they deliver a higher cranking power, allowing for a quick and efficient start-up, even in extreme temperatures. Overall, with their extended lifespan, low maintenance requirements, and superior performance, AGM batteries are undoubtedly the better choice for any application requiring a reliable and long-lasting power source.

Harper's Tire: The Importance of Wheel Alignments

At Harper's Tire, we understand that when it comes to vehicle maintenance, many customers tend to overlook the significance of wheel alignments. However, we want to emphasize that wheel alignments are not just another routine check-up; they are vitally important for both your safety and your vehicle's performance. Allow us to present why a wheel alignment should be at the top of your maintenance list!

1. Safety First!

Maintaining proper wheel alignment directly correlates with keeping you safe on the road. Misaligned wheels can lead to an array of hazardous issues, such as reduced steering control, increased braking distance, and even potential tire blowouts. By ensuring your wheels are properly aligned, you'll have better control over your vehicle, allowing for quicker response times and safer driving conditions.

2. Extended Tire Life

Tires are a significant investment, and every driver wants to extend their lifespan as much as possible. Wheel misalignment can cause irregular, rapid tire wear, leading to premature tire replacement. This unnecessary expense can be easily avoided by aligning your wheels regularly. A proper wheel alignment reduces uneven tire wear, prolongs tire life, and maximizes your investment.

3. Improved Fuel Efficiency

Here's some good news for your wallet: a proper wheel alignment can improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels force your vehicle's engine to work harder and consume more fuel as it fights against the resistance caused by the misalignment. By optimizing your wheel alignment, you can reduce rolling resistance and enjoy improved fuel economy, allowing you to save money at the pump.

4. Enhanced Vehicle Performance

A vehicle that performs at its best allows for a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience. Proper wheel alignment contributes to improved handling and maneuverability, reducing unnecessary strain on your suspension system. Whether you're going on a long road trip or simply maneuvering through traffic, a well-aligned vehicle will provide optimal performance, ensuring a comfortable and pleasurable ride.

5. Prevent Costly Repairs

Neglecting wheel alignments can lead to significant damage to your vehicle's suspension system, including worn-out ball joints, tie rods, and steering components. These repairs can be costly, not to mention time-consuming. By regularly aligning your wheels, you can prevent premature wear and tear on these vital components, saving yourself from expensive repairs in the long run.

Visit Harper's Tire Today!

At Harper's Tire, we are committed to providing our customers with top-notch service and ensuring their safety on the road. Our highly skilled technicians are equipped with state-of-the-art alignment equipment to ensure the most accurate and effective wheel alignments. Don't underestimate the importance of wheel alignments – schedule your appointment with us today and experience the benefits of a properly aligned vehicle. Drive safer, save money, and enjoy an optimal driving experience with Harper's Tire!

Servicing your Transmission

Transmission service is an essential maintenance task for every vehicle owner, as it plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the vehicle's transmission system. With time, the transmission fluid in a vehicle can break down and lose its ability to lubricate and cool the components within the transmission. This can lead to increased friction, heat, and wear on the transmission, potentially resulting in costly repairs or even complete transmission failure. Regular transmission service, including fluid and filter replacements, not only helps to maintain optimal performance, but also extends the lifespan of the transmission. Taking proactive measures to preserve the health of the transmission through regular servicing ultimately contributes to a safer and more dependable driving experience for all vehicle owners.

uhp Tires

Ultra-High Performance (UHP) tires are designed for sports cars and high-performance vehicles. These tires offer superior grip, handling, and stability at high speeds, making them perfect for drivers who enjoy pushing their cars to the limit. UHP tires are made with advanced materials and technologies that allow them to withstand high temperatures and wear, ensuring they maintain optimal performance throughout their lifespan. While these tires provide exceptional performance, they are not recommended for use in cold or snowy conditions. As a seasoned tire provider at Harper's Tire, we offer several high-quality UHP tire options to meet our customers' needs.

We highly recommend the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S; Here is a few reasons why.

# Unbeatable Traction

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S features a specially designed tread pattern that delivers all-season traction in both wet and dry conditions. The tire's wider outer shoulder and high-density silica compound offer superior grip and handling, making sure your vehicle always stays planted on the road.

# Maximum Control

The Pilot Sport 4S comes equipped with a new hybrid belt of aramid and nylon that provides exceptional steering precision and enhanced cornering control. The tire's asymmetric tread design creates an optimized contact patch with the road, boosting stability and reducing road noise.

# Superior Comfort

With the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, you don't have to sacrifice comfort for performance. The tire's advanced construction and variable contact patch 3.0 evenly distribute the weight of your vehicle, reducing vibrations and delivering a smoother ride.

# Long-Lasting Durability

Michelin has always been a leader in tire manufacturing, and the Pilot Sport 4S is no exception. The tire's cutting-edge design and superior materials result in increased durability and a longer lifespan. The Pilot Sport 4S provides a fantastic driving experience for thousands of miles to come. These MICHELIN tires carry up to a 50,000 kilometer limited warranty in addition to the standard materials and workmanship warranty for treadwear or mileage.

# Unmatched Performance

The Dynamic Response Technology continuously adapts to the road for ultra-precise steering, outstanding cornering power and remarkably good tread life for a summer tire. And the revolutionary Multi-Compound Construction delivers unmatched levels of dry and wet grip exactly where you need it.

Servicing your Timing Belt

Timing belts are an essential part of a vehicle's engine system, responsible for synchronizing the movement of the crankshaft and camshaft. Over time, timing belts can wear out, stretch, or become damaged, causing the engine to run poorly or even fail.

Replacing a timing belt is crucial to prevent engine damage and maintain the vehicle's overall performance. A broken timing belt can cause the valves to hit the pistons, leading to costly engine repairs. A worn-out timing belt can also cause poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.

The timing belt replacement interval varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but it is generally recommended to replace the timing belt every 100,000 to 160,000 kilometers or every 5 to 7 years, whichever comes first. It's important to check the vehicle's owner's manual or consult with a certified mechanic to determine the recommended replacement interval for a specific vehicle.

Overall, replacing the timing belt is a necessary maintenance task to keep the engine running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the line.

11 car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in top shape this spring

The cold, unforgiving Canadian winter can wreak havoc on your vehicle, as can all the road salt that coats your car’s exterior and engine.

As spring emerges and the snow and ice melt away, it’s time to do a little preemptive maintenance on your vehicle to help its performance and avoid more costly repairs that could arise later.

Not only will regular maintenance help keep your vehicle roadworthy and extend its lifespan, but it can also help you avoid breakdowns, or worse, a collision.

Here are 11 spring car maintenance tips to keep your car in tip-top shape.

1. Change your oil and oil filter

Your vehicle requires an oil and oil filter change periodically throughout the year to keep it running efficiently. How often depends on your specific vehicle and the amount you drive. Oil changes are necessary to reduce excess dirt and sludge that may build up inside the engine.

2. Replenish fluids

Your vehicle has several types of fluids to keep it operating, such as transmission fluid, radiator fluid, power steering and brake fluids, and windshield washer fluid. It’s wise to check these levels periodically and top them up or have them flushed and replaced as per your owner’s manual when required.

3. Replace the wiper blades

At least twice a year, get new windshield wiper blades. As a rule of thumb, whenever you swap your all-season tires for winter tires, replace the wiper blades, too. That way, you always have a clear view of the road in any season.

4. Check the battery

Let’s face it: winter is hard on all parts of your car. It can be particularly tough on your vehicle’s battery. Most car batteries last for up to five years. Peek at yours. If you spot corrosion around the battery’s connection points or see cracks on the top or side of it, that may be a clue it’s time to swap it out for a new one.

5. Fix cracks in the windshield

Chips or cracks in your windshield can lead to more significant issues if you neglect to get them repaired. A cracked windshield might compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity, and it can obstruct your view of the road, especially if it spreads. Moreover, a police officer may ticket you for having a cracked windshield, which includes a fine up to $500 in Alberta.

6. Check the brakes

Winter driving conditions can damage your vehicle’s brakes, including pads, shoes, and rotors. Have a professional auto technician thoroughly inspect your braking system to clean out the grit and grime and ensure no parts need replacing. The last thing you want is faulty brakes that lead to a collision.

7. Lubricate the engine’s chassis parts

Unless you’re a do-it-yourself mechanic who enjoys tinkering with a vehicle, has the tools, and understands the safety procedures involved, you might want to see a professional auto technician about lubricating your engine’s chassis parts.

It also depends on your vehicle. There was a time when chassis lubrication was routinely done during an oil and filter change, but newer cars and trucks may not require it (see the vehicle owner’s manual to find out). Nevertheless, many components require lubrication, such as steering and universal joints.

8. Check engine belts and hoses

Sometimes you need to have the engine belts and hoses replaced on your vehicle. A leaky coolant hose can lead to an overheated engine. Say, for example, the belt that turns the water pump snaps, your car’s cooling system won’t work.

Eyeball belts and look for cracks or glazing, which can cause a belt to slip or crack. If you hear your engine making a high-pitched whine or squeal, it may be a sign of a worn belt that’s losing its tension.

9. Check air and fuel filters

A few filters in your vehicle require replacing now and again, such as the engine air filter, the air filter for the passenger cabin, and the fuel filter. Dirty air filters can reduce the air flowing through the engine and make it work harder, meaning it will burn more fuel.

A cabin air filter screens out pollen, dust, and other airborne debris inside the vehicle, and replacing it can help the vehicle’s occupants breathe easier. Meanwhile, a dirty fuel filter will reduce fuel efficiency, and it won’t protect the vehicle’s fuel pump and injectors. In general, vehicle owners should replace the fuel filter annually.

10. Check your tire pressure

Depending on where you live, you may no longer need winter tires on your vehicle. For instance, Quebec drivers must install winter tires from December 15 to March 15. However, in other provinces, insurance companies may provide alternative guidelines, with some recommending winter tires from November up until the end of April.

Check your vehicle’s tire pressure regularly and ensure each tire is inflated to the level listed in your owner’s manual. Overinflated or underinflated tires can cause you to burn more fuel or lead to reduced traction when you drive.

11. Make sure exterior lights are working

Flick on your vehicle’s lighting system, walk around your car, and make sure there are no burnt-out headlights, signal lights, reverse or brake lights. If there are, get them replaced as soon as possible.

Brakes tell you when something’s wrong

If your brake pedal feels spongy, vibrates or needs to be pushed further than usual, or your vehicle pulls to the side when braking, or you hear squealing or grinding noises… It’s time to have your car serviced.

To prevent damage from moisture entering the braking system and to assure reliable performance, your brake fluid should be changed periodically.

Regular brake service is a prevention against rust and corrosion and will help avoid more expensive repairs in the long run. Even if your brakes seem to be working well, an inspection could reveal potential problems that can be solved before any costly damages occur.

Generally braking systems work with brake fluid and hoses connecting the master cylinder to each wheel's brake. Pushing the pedal creates hydraulic pressure that sends fluid from the master cylinder through the hoses to the brakes.

ASTM F-1805 Driving Traction Test and Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) Symbol

The Canadian Government requires that tires marked with a three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMS) symbol must comply with minimum safety standards for winter driving. Transport Canada establishes regulations, under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA), which specify the tires identified with the 3PMS symbol must pass the ASTM F-1805 Driving Traction Test on a medium packed snow surface. The ASTM F-1805 Driving Traction Test is a well-established performance-based standard for winter tire testing.

The winter driving season can be quite challenging due to quickly changing weather and road conditions. Manufacturers of winter tires continue to evolve their designs with innovations in tread patterns and rubber compounds. Tires marked with the 3PMS symbol provide the best performance in winter conditions.

Tire Safety

Tires are without a doubt the most critical safety component on a vehicle. Where the rubber meets the road affects traction, handling, steering, stability and braking. Because of this, a sudden tire failure can have serious consequences, especially if it occurs at highway speeds in a vehicle with a high centre of gravity.

Under inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. Twenty-three per cent of vehicles have at least one tire under-inflated by more than 20 per cent. An under-inflated tire may not be visibly noticeable; however, they are more prone to damage and failure and contribute to higher fuel costs. The right amount of air for your tires is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and is usually shown on the vehicle door edge, doorpost, glove box door or fuel door. It is also listed in the owner’s manual.

The vehicle owner is responsible for prevention of tire failure caused by improper inflation.

Many people seldom ever check their tires. That’s why all 2008 and newer vehicles now have the “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems” to alert the driver if a tire is low. TPMS isn’t mandatory in Canada , and so far, there are no plans to make it so. Transport Canada says it is monitoring the effectiveness of TPMS and will not rule out the possibility of mandatory requirement, but also says that it will make no decisions before looking at several issues, including false or no warnings, sensor battery life, long-term system durability, and the extremely low numbers of tire failures cited in fatal collisions.

So even though your vehicle is equipped with TPMS, you should still check your tire pressure once a month and before any longer trips.

Tires do not last forever, even if the tread shows little visible wear. As rubber ages, it loses elasticity, hardens and can become brittle. The reinforcing cords inside a tire can also deteriorate and lose strength. This increases the risk of a sudden tire failure the older the tire gets. After ten years, the risk of failure goes up sharply. Because of this, many safety experts say tires that are more than six years old have expired and should be replaced regardless of how much tread is left on the tires.

Did You Know

All tires sold in Canada have a tire identification number molded into the sidewall. This number provides tire retailers specific manufacturing information about when and where the tire was made. The first two characters following DOT indicate the manufacturer and plant code; the third and fourth characters are the tire size code. The fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth are optional. The final four give the manufacturing date. For example, 2611 indicates that the tire was manufactured in the twenty-sixth week of 2011.

Copyright © 2022 Canada Safety Council. All rights reserved. Tire Safety – Canada Safety Council

Tips for winter tire savings

  • Wait for sales and buy up — max out your budget. Better tires cost more, but they last longer and perform better. Many manufacturers offer rebates.

  • Ask about tire warranties and hold onto your paperwork. Warranties are prorated, but they can save you significantly.

  • If you’re financing a new (or new to you) car, factor in the cost of a set of winter tires right when you buy.

  • If you buy a service plan for your new car, try to negotiate the twice-annual tire swap.

  • Having your winter tires on dedicated rims costs more upfront but saves in the long run. Also, it’s better for all the tires.

  • Check with your insurance company about savings. Be sure to find out what dates they mandate your winter tires be on, and when they can come off — companies may differ.

  • Store them safely and away from UV lighting. If you do it yourself, keep them covered (consider buying canvas, handled bags for easier hauling) and inside.

  • Learn how to read the sidewall, don’t buy old stock, and consider going down a size for winters.

A winter tire cost calculator is a useful tool to see what winter tire option is best for you. The link below will direct you to a calculator we suggest using.