Blog / Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing Service

A Helpful Overview Of How To Clean Your Car Engine By Yourself

January 17, 2022 · 3 min read

It’s a well-known fact that the average car owner does not know how to clean their engine. This can lead to many problems, including clogged-up filters and increased emissions. So what should you do? Cleaning your car’s engine doesn’t have to be hard!

This blog post will explain how to clean your engine at home without help.

Let Your Engine Cool Down

Before you do anything, it’s important to let your engine cool down. Cleaning an engine that is still hot can be very dangerous and cause injuries. Once the engine has cooled off completely, you can begin the cleaning process. This will help you avoid burns. Plus, the engine degreaser you use will work better when the engine is not hot.

Remove Any Dirt or Debris Sitting on the Engine

The first step is to remove any dirt or debris sitting on top of the engine. You can do this by using a brush or a piece of cloth. Be sure to wear gloves if you are going to use your hands, as some of the oils and chemicals used in this process can be harmful if they come in touch with the skin. Once the top layer of dirt and debris has been removed, move on to the next step.

Use Plastic Bags to Cover All Fragile Parts on the Engine

Electric wires and components that are not covered by plastic bags or some covering can be damaged if they come into contact with the chemicals used in this process. To prevent damage, you can purchase large, clear plastic bags at a local hardware store and place them over any fragile parts on your engine.

Apply Degreaser and Scrub it to Remove Oil and Grease

It is important to use a degreaser that is specifically designed for engines. Engine degreasers are available at most auto parts stores. Pour the degreaser over the entire engine and scrub it in with a brush. Pay special attention to the areas where oil and grease have built up. Allow the degreaser to sit for a few minutes to break down the oil and grease.

Wipe it Dry

Once the degreaser has done its job, you can wipe it off. Use a clean rag, and be sure to remove as much of the grease and oil as possible so that your engine doesn’t rust when exposed to moisture in the air during storage for long periods.

Apply a Protectant on the Engine

To protect your engine from rust and corrosion, apply a protectant coat to it. There are many different types of protectants available, so be sure to choose one specifically designed for engines. For example, WD-40 will help keep the engine lubricated and protected against moisture.

If you believe this job is too messy and complicated, you can always turn to experienced, certified car technicians to get your engine cleaned the right way. At Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, serving Owosso, MI, our experts will help you prolong your car engine's life. Schedule an appointment with our dealership service center today.

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Apr 01, 2022 in Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing Service

Android Auto Or Apple CarPlay? Which One Should I Use?

When choosing a car infotainment system, there are two main options: Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Both of these systems allow you to connect your smartphone to your car and use its features on the screen in your dashboard. So which one is right for you? We'll compare Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and help you decide which one is best for you. What is Android Auto? Android Auto is a system that authorizes you to use your Android smartphone in your car. You can control it through the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, or voice commands. It lets you make hands-free calls, send text messages, and access maps and music apps. Google is known for building user-friendly and robust products, so it's no surprise that Android Auto is one of the best options available. It has a sleek interface and integrates well with your car's existing infotainment system. One of the best things about Android Auto is that it's constantly improving. Google releases new updates regularly, adding new features and making the system more user-friendly. What is Apple CarPlay? It's a system that lets you use your iPhone in the car. Like Android Auto, it allows you to make hands-free calls, send text messages, access maps, music apps, and more. CarPlay is available on a broad range of vehicles from different manufacturers. You can use Siri to access and control most of the features on CarPlay. Siri is Apple's virtual assistant, and it can be very helpful when you're driving. You can ask Siri to make phone calls, send text messages, play music, get directions, etc. Do They Make Driving Safer? Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay can help you stay focused on the road while you're driving. With these systems, you can make hands-free calls and send text messages, so you don't have to take your eyes off the road. You can also utilize voice commands to control many of the features. Both systems also offer navigation features. With Android Auto, you can utilize Google Maps or Waze. With Apple CarPlay, you can use the built-in Maps app or a third-party navigation app like Google Maps. Which One is Better? There is no clear winner in Android Auto vs. Apple CarPlay. It depends on your personal preferences. If you're an iPhone user, you might prefer the familiarity of Apple CarPlay. If you're an Android user, you might choose to integrate with Google Maps and other Google apps. Both systems have their pros and cons, so it's really up to you to decide which one is better for you. Whichever method you choose, you'll be able to enjoy a safer and more convenient driving experience. If you're still undecided on which platform to use in your car, it's important to consider the pros and cons of each. Ultimately, the conclusion comes down to individual preference. Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, serving Grand Rapids, MI, is your best bet for genuine parts and accessories. With our large inventory and expert staff, we can help you find the perfect OEM part or accessory for your vehicle. Our competitive prices and convenient location make us the ideal choice for all your automotive needs. Check out our genuine car parts and accessories here!

Mar 21, 2022 in Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing Service

Simple Yet Essential Items For Cleaning Your Car Professionally At Home

No one enjoys taking their car for a car wash. It's expensive, and it takes up a lot of time. Plus, who knows what kind of chemicals they'll use on your precious vehicle? This is why so many people choose to clean their cars at home. It's cheaper, and you have complete control over the process. This post will discuss the basic items you need for cleaning your car at home. We'll also provide numerous tips on how to get the job done right. 1) Bucket, Soap, Cloth, Sponge, & Brush You will need some specific items to clean your car properly at home. A good quality car soap is key to getting a thorough clean without damaging your paint. Ensure to choose a soap that is good for cars. You will also need a soft cloth or sponge and a brush specifically for cleaning cars. These brushes are designed to be light on your paint and will help you get into all the nooks and crannies of your vehicle. Finally, you will need a bucket to hold all your cleaning supplies. A bucket is essential for car cleaning. Fill your bucket with warm water and add the car soap according to the instructions. This will create suds that you can use to clean the exterior of your car. Rinse off your car with a hose to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, wash your car in sections using your sponge or soft cloth. Work from the top and rinse each section. Pay special attention to areas prone to dirt and grime, such as the tires. 2) Microfiber Towels Once you have finished washing the exterior of your car, it's time to dry it off. A regular towel will do the job, but a microfiber towel is better. Microfiber towels are designed to absorb water quickly, and they won't leave any streaks or lint behind. To dry your car properly: Start by wiping down the windows and mirrors. Move on to the rest of the car, drying it section by section. Once you're finished, give your vehicle a once-over to ensure you didn't miss any spots. 3) Glass Cleaner A glass cleaner will make your windows and windshield shine and help you see better while driving. To use glass cleaner, spray it on the glass and then wipe it off with a microfiber towel. Be sure to do this step in the shade so that the cleaner doesn't dry too quickly and leave streaks. 4) Carpet Cleaner The carpets and upholstery in your car can get just as dirty as the rest of the vehicle. To clean them: Start by vacuuming to remove any loose dirt or debris. Use a carpet cleaner that is designed for cars. Spray the cleaner on the carpet and scrub it in with a brush. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then vacuum it up. You may have to do it again to clean the carpets. Cleaning your car at home doesn't have to be difficult or time-consuming. Using the right products can make your vehicle look new again. These items are essential for any at-home car cleaning project. To provide proper and affordable car care to your vehicle, visit Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, serving Charlotte, MI, and acquire professional car services from certified car technicians. Schedule a service appointment to prolong your vehicle's life.

Mar 07, 2022 in Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing Service

4 Essential Fluids That Make Your Car Feel Like Brand New

Cars are amazing machines that need a variety of fluids to run smoothly. Sure, changing your car's oil and filter is the most important thing you can do to keep it running well, but there are other fluids you should also be aware of. In this post, Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing will discuss the essential fluids that make your car feel brand new. We'll also share some tips on checking these fluids and when to replace them. So, whether you're a pro gearhead or just starting out with car maintenance, read on for all the basic info you need on keeping your car running smoothly! 1. Engine Oil This is the lifeblood of your engine, so it's essential to make sure it's always topped off. You should check your engine oil level at least every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, and more often if you drive in a hot climate or do a lot of stop-and-go driving. To check the level, locate the oil dipstick (it will be labeled) and pull it out. Wipe it with a towel and reinsert it. Pull it out again, then check the level; it should be between the "minimum" and "maximum" lines. If it's low, add some engine oil (make sure to use the type recommended by your car's manufacturer). 2. Transmission Fluid Your car's transmission fluid ensures smooth shifting between gears. It's essential to keep the transmission fluid level in your car at the correct level, as too little or too much of this can cause problems. You should check it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. To check the transmission fluid level, locate the transmission dipstick and pull it out. Wipe it with a paper towel and reinsert it. Pull it out again, then check the level; it should be between the "minimum" and "maximum" lines. If it's low, add some transmission fluid, and you'll be good to go. 3. Brake Oil Your car's brake oil is essential for stopping your car. Brake pads rely on brake oil to create friction and stop the car. It's critical to keep the level of brake oil in your car at the optimum level. You should check it every time you get your car serviced. If the brake oil is too low, it can cause the brake pads to wear down faster. To check the brake oil level, locate the brake fluid reservoir and remove the cap. Look at the fluid level; it must be between the "minimum" and "maximum" lines on the reservoir. If it's low, add some brake oil, and your brakes will work perfectly. 4. Car Coolant Your car's engine emits a lot of heat while it's running. If this heat isn't dissipated, it can damage the engine extensively. That's why your car needs coolant, which helps to dissipate the engine heat. If your car doesn't have enough coolant, the engine will overheat, and you'll have to pull over. You can check the coolant level in your car by locating the coolant reservoir and removing the cap. If it's low, add some coolant, and you should be ready for a drive. Ending Note So, if your car is feeling a little lackluster, it might be time for a car fluid change. Here, at Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing, we offer all the essential fluids that can make your car feel brand new. Our team of experts in Grand Ledge, MI, is here to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly and looking great! Schedule a service today, and let us take care of everything for you. Thanks for reading!