NAPA

Christian Eckes returned to victory lane at Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS) in thrilling fashion to give McAnally-Hilgemann Racing the organization’s first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) victory on Saturday afternoon. The driver of the No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet Silverado RST reclaimed the points lead after racking up 50 points and capturing his second stage win of the year. The victory gives Eckes and his team a virtual lock to the NCTS playoffs for the third time in his career.

The Middletown, N.Y., native started the 137-lap event from the fourth position after inclement weather washed out qualifying on Friday afternoon. Eckes boldly asserted himself as a threat by taking the lead on the opening lap and dominated Stage 1. The NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet paced the field on the outside of the AMS high banks until a caution flew on lap 24. Crew chief Charles Denike kept Eckes on track to go for the stage win, and the call paid off. Eckes held off all challengers on lap 30 to earn 10 points and one playoff point with his second stage win of 2023 after leading every lap.

Eckes pitted under the stage caution for right side tires and restarted 20th on lap 38 as the running order flip-flopped due to contrasting pit strategies. Eckes stayed in the lead draft for the majority of Stage 2 and ran as high as ninth but was scored 14th at the end of the segment on lap 60. Denike put four tires on Eckes’ Chevrolet, which allowed him to restart 11th on lap 68. Another quick caution on lap 79 offered Eckes the chance to top off with fuel for the final run, but he was caught speeding on pit road.

Eckes started his march back to the front from 28th position on lap 84 and took advantage of every opportunity to claw his way back into contention. A restart on lap 103 saw him rocket to 11th, which included a four-wide maneuver to cut through the pack. Eckes worked the less-preferred bottom lane to perfection as he capitalized on the restarts to crack the top five on lap 121, and he claimed the runner-up spot on lap 123. A late caution set up an overtime restart. Eckes elected to take the bottom of the front row, which proved to be the winning decision. Eckes traded the lead with fellow Chevrolet driver Nick Sanchez on the overtime restart and used a surge of momentum on the final lap to pull alongside for the lead down the backstretch. Eckes held the lead on the final lap as a caution waved coming out of Turn 4 to secure the victory, his third playoff berth, and his first victory at AMS.

“Just really happy,” Eckes said. “Thanks to Charles (Denike), everybody on this team. They work so damn hard and this is what makes it all worth it. Thanks to NAPA, Chevrolet, everybody. I’m pumped. It’s going to be a really good year.

“I think this is just what I kind of figured was going to happen coming here. I knew the potential of Charles (Denike), and I knew the potential of the race team, and Bill’s passion to win, so it made my decision to come here really easy.”

Start / Finish: 4 / 1
Points Standing / Total: 1st / 151 pts.

Next Race: Saturday, March 25, Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas
How to Watch or Listen: FS1, MRN, SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Christian Eckes: @christianeckes
Bill McAnally Racing / McAnally-Hilgemann Racing: @BMR_NASCAR

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Hybrid vehicles work by powering off the engine when they are not in motion on the road, such as at a stop light or in traffic, which is considered idling. Hybrid-electric vehicle technology uses idling to achieve fuel savings of nearly 15% according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is a great choice for consumers who are environmentally conscious or want to save money at the pump. However, you should understand some key insights about letting your hybrid vehicle sit idle for too long.

With more professionals working from home, it is all too easy to let your hybrid vehicle sit completely idle in your garage for long periods of time. However, if you do not start up and drive your hybrid regularly, you run the risk of causing serious issues to your battery pack. Hybrid batteries need exercised weekly at a minimum to prolong your hybrid vehicle’s performance. But remember, there are also other ways a vehicle can idle.

The exact length of time that you can let a hybrid car, truck or SUV sit completely idle without being turned on varies by the make and model. If you’re working from home and not driving as much, make sure to turn your hybrid vehicle on in a ventilated area and let it run for at least a few minutes each week to exercise the battery pack. If you cannot turn the vehicle on at least once a month, consider having a friend or trusted neighbor do it for you.

If you have to let your hybrid sit idle without powering it on for more than 30 days, inspect your vehicle or take it to a local NAPA Auto Care center near you to prepare for your absence. Store the hybrid vehicle in a well-ventilated area or garage that is free of moisture, ensure any interior lights or plug-in accessories are turned off and rest easy knowing you’ve prepared your prized hybrid vehicle for a long absence.

Do Hybrid Vehicles Use Gas While Idling?

Hybrid vehicles use a combination of gas and battery power to function and can include an array of features like idle-stop systems where energy is transferred from the gasoline engine to the electric starter and back to the generator/battery. An idle-stop system (also commonly known as the start-stop system) helps drivers save gas by powering down the engine (idling) when the vehicle comes to a halt for even a short period of time. Imagine you brake at a red light—the hybrid engine automatically shuts down to save on gas. Then, when you release the brake pedal to accelerate, the engine starts back up again.

The idle-stop system makes up today’s market of hybrids that can come standard in both mild hybrids and full hybrids. Mild hybrids that use idle-stops are typically conventional combustion engine vehicles that simply idle when not in motion, but do not take advantage of an electric motor that full hybrid vehicles possess. So, which type of hybrid electric vehicle has an idle-stop operation? The answer is that many mild and full hybrids now come with idle-stop technology, shutting off the gasoline engine when at rest, coasting or slowing down.

Due to idle-stop, no gas burns inside the engine, saving you money while saving the planet at the same time. NAPA thanks you for doing your part to reduce the heat island effect, which happens in large metropolitan areas where air quality and pollution is affected by vehicles that have high carbon emissions from fossil fuel. According to Reuters, U.S. hybrid vehicle sales increased a whopping 76% in 2021 and is on pace to continue growing sales. Additionally, Mordor Intelligence estimates that the hybrid-electric vehicle market was worth $252 billion in 2020 alone and may reach as high as $1,165 billion by 2026. Even Ford Motor Company predicts that electric vehicles will make up 40% of its sales by 2030.

How Long Can a Hybrid Vehicle Sit Idle?

As you cruise along in your planet-loving automobile, just as you start to brake, the hybrid’s stop-start system will engage the regenerative braking system. Regenerative braking uses rotational energy from your wheels to create electricity for your generator in a full hybrid vehicle model. The generator then sends the electricity to your battery where it is stored and used later as your energy reserve.

As the brake is fully pushed, the generator shuts down the gas flow. Stepping on the accelerator again restarts the engine and uses that stored energy, running it to the electric starter. If you have a full battery, hybrid vehicles can idle for nearly two hours. Of course, this figure can scale up or down depending on your hybrid’s make and model. Keep updated about the condition of your hybrid battery and take care of the day-to-day maintenance needs with the help of NAPA’s expert technicians, the NAPA Blog and NAPAonline.com.

Note: Although mild hybrids offer fuel savings, they are only a small savings compared to fully hybrid-electric vehicles. For more information about hybrid-electric vehicles, consider reading “What Goes Into a NAPA Reman Hybrid Battery Pack.” 

Featured image courtesy of Pixabay.

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Shopping for Spark Plugs With NAPA

Automotive ignition and engine work are some of the most straight-forward DIY projects that at-home mechanics have performed for decades. At NAPA, not only do we want to guide you on which replacement spark plugs to purchase, but also educate drivers on how they function and the process for how to replace spark plugs.

Your vehicle’s ignition system routes high-voltage current from the ignition coils to the spark plugs in a synchronized firing order. The timing is critical to optimize the power created from the explosion or spark. Spark plugs use precisely crafted ceramic insular bodies and punched steel casings, which house two electrodes with a gap in between them. When voltage is sent to the plug, an electrical arc is formed between the two electrodes, thus igniting the fuel/air mixture.

Spark plugs determine the power output, fuel economy and even engine temperature of your automobile. Signs that it is time for spark plug and coil replacement include jittery or rough idling, power surges from the engine, diminished acceleration and decreased gas mileage. Remember that spark plugs are not designed to last the lifetime of a vehicle. Built-up deposits and natural widening of the electrode gap can cause spark plugs to fail as time passes, so replacing spark plugs is a routine part of vehicle maintenance. Note: It is always best to replace all the spark plugs at the same time.

NAPA experts recommend installing replacement spark plugs every 30,000 miles on older models, which matches most manufacturer recommendations. With a modern vehicle, you only need to change spark plugs every 100,000 miles thanks to advances in materials and ignition design. Replacing spark plugs will take roughly an hour if your vehicle has a four-cylinder engine. Spark plug replacement takes longer for vehicles with a V6 or V8 engine. A standard vehicle typically has the same number of spark plugs as the number of cylinders. So, a V6 would need six replacement spark plugs. There are exceptions like Chrysler V8s, which use two plugs per cylinder. 

Which Plug Sparks Your Interest?

At the heart of each spark plug is an electrode that connects to the vehicle’s ignition coil via a thick wire. Spark plugs installed by car manufacturers often contain copper, nickel or chromium core electrodes. The metal mentioned in the replacement part’s name indicates the material used to construct its electrode, which gives you an idea of the different types of spark plugs in most retail aftermarkets. You can also find high-performance spark plugs composed of rare, powerful metals like ones with fine-wire iridium centers and double platinum ground electrodes. Glow plugs are typically used for heavy-duty diesel applications.

So, are you wondering what type of spark plug is best for your car? Autolite Copper Spark Plugs are ideal replacements for older model vehicles. These copper spark plugs are applicable to a wide range of makes/models and are guaranteed to deliver quick starts, good fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. Although, for commuter vehicles that aren’t classics, some of the best types of spark plugs come from ACDelco’s line of premium aftermarket plugs. This product line includes reliable conventional spark plugs, specialized marine spark plugs and RAPIDFIRE Single Platinum Performance Spark Plugs. Our experts highly recommend spark plugs from the top-tier levels: ACDelco Silver (Advantage) and ACDelco Gold (Professional).

One of the reasons to go with a premium spark plug is that their platinum construction provides better performance and more durability when compared to copper. For example, platinum spark plugs are typically good for up to 100,000 miles of service. These plugs are engineered to generate more heat, which means they can operate in hotter environments. Due to the minimizing of carbon deposit build up, platinum plugs give a better spark for a longer period of time. For an ideal upgrade, go with the Autolite Platinum Spark Plug, which delivers optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. This Autolite spark plug is specifically designed for Ford pickups and SUVs, such as the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator.

Because iridium conducts energy better (an iridium electrode’s durability is six times harder than platinum), it’s the optimal choice if you want to get the most out of a performance engine. Iridium spark plugs are engineered to offer excellent engine idling stability and a smooth performance, which is critical in newer vehicles that use electronic distributor-based ignition systems. NGK Spark Plugs manufactures replacement parts for virtually every automotive, motorcycle, marine and small engine application. NGK Iridium IX spark plugs are specifically designed for the performance enthusiast, because they provide outstanding acceleration and high fuel efficiency.

Get Started With NAPA

Are you looking for where to buy spark plugs and spark plug wires? NAPA Auto Parts stores and NAPAonline.com are proud to offer thousands of spark plugs and ignition components for sedans, pickups, minivans, SUVs and more. Make sure to select the ones specifically engineered for your vehicle’s make and model. Plus, take advantage of our convenient Buy Online, Pickup in Store option.

If you are concerned about how much spark plugs cost, we have some good news! The cost of spark plugs ranges as low as less than $2 per spark plug to more than $100 dollars for spark plugs used in industrial or racing vehicles. You can purchase a long-lasting, high-quality, aftermarket replacement spark plug for less than $6 each. 

Keep in mind, you need to remain patient while removing spark plugs and make sure to remove one spark plug at a time in the correct firing order. You must remove and replace each spark plug, along with any accompanying wires, before moving on to the next one in the chain. Most modern vehicles incorporate coil-on-plug technology, which don’t utilize external spark plug wires. 

Finally, you must check to see if there are proper gap spaces on your new set of spark plugs to finish this installation. This technical auto repair requires using a spark plug socket with a swivel head, a spark plug wire puller and a spark plug gap gauge just to name a few specific tools. With that in mind, you are probably wondering how much it costs to get spark plugs changed by a professional mechanic. The average cost of spark plug replacement is $140 for a four-cylinder engine, $180 for a six-cylinder engine and $220 for an eight-cylinder engine. Schedule an appointment with your nearest NAPA Auto Care center today!

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

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Tanner Reif came away with a 12th-place finish in the General Tire 150 at Phoenix Raceway on Friday night, as he made his first start for Bill McAnally Racing (BMR) in the No. 16 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet SS.

He battled a vibration and handling issues in the race, which marked the season opener for the ARCA Menards Series West. The event, with 32 entries, also served as a combination race with the ARCA Menards Series.

After starting 20th on the grid in Friday’s race, Reif steadily worked his way forward. He was up to 15th by Lap 11 and 13th on Lap 18. He was on the verge of breaking into the top 10 throughout the second half of the race, but could not gain additional ground and was 12th at the checkered flag.

Reif expressed confidence that the team will have a fast NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet at the next ARCA West race at Irwindale Speedway, where he scored one of his two series wins as a rookie last year and where BMR has collected 17 wins.

“The NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet ran hard and the crew worked as hard as they could, but we just had a couple of things we couldn’t work out on the car,” Reif said. “It had a vibration and was off pace. Just because we had some adversity tonight doesn’t mean it will continue. I think we can make up these points and win a couple of races this year.”

Start / Finish: 20 / 12

Next Race: Saturday, April 1, Irwindale Speedway, Irwindale, Calif.
How to Watch or Listen: Live on FloRacing and Tape-Delay CNBC (Sun., April 23, noon ET)

Tanner Reif: @Tanner_Reif
NAPA Racing: @NAPARacing
Bill McAnally Racing: @BMR_NASCAR

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Defending NHRA Funny Car world champion Ron Capps is leaving Gainesville Raceway with the confidence that he has one of the quickest cars in the class yet again after a second-round exit at the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals. The driver of the NAPA Auto Parts Toyota GR Supra laid down the second-quickest pass of the event in the first round of Sunday eliminations before going up in smoke in the quarterfinals. 

Capps and tuner Dean “Guido” Antonelli made a statement in Saturday qualifying, where Capps recorded the third-quickest pass of Q3 before laying down a 3.874 E.T. at 333.25-mph in the final session to claim the first No. 1 qualifier award of his sophomore season as a team owner and driver. It was Capps’ seventh pole position since forming Ron Capps Motorsports. 

“(In the) last session, Q4, to go to the top and get the yellow hat is something we take very seriously,” Capps said. “It’s important to us to be able to fend off such great competition to steal the pole.”

Racing in front of a packed house on Sunday morning, Capps in his NAPA Auto Parts Toyota GR Supra fired off a 3.855-second pass at 334.57-mph to defeat Terry Haddock and set what was then low E.T. of the event. In the second round, Capps left first against fellow Toyota driver Alexis DeJoria but lost traction just after leaving the starting line. 

“We felt great about race day,” Capps said. “(The weather) warmed up before second round and when I got back from the run and it smoked the tires, I told Guido how spoiled I was because we haven’t done that in a long, long time. We made a small clutch adjustment that caused us to smoke the tires, but we’re very, very happy with everything and I can’t wait to get going to the West Coast.”

Capps, a veteran of the NHRA nitro ranks, started the season with a new look and new body on his Toyota GR Supra Funny Car. There were personnel changes with the retirement of co-crew chief John Medlen after the Ron Capps Motorsports team won its first world championship as an organization at the end of the 2022 season. With one race under their belts, Capps and company are now ready to continue chasing Capps’ third consecutive world championship, and fourth overall, as the NHRA Camping World Series moves on to Phoenix.

“This last off-season was one of my favorites,” Capps said. “We had an extra month, and as an owner, it gave us a little more time to get everything together. Starting the season off with the Gatornationals was something I think the fans really love, and now I’m super excited to head West and get that string of West Coast races started. Couldn’t be happier with the way we started our season here. Test session went great on Tuesday. We brought out our brand-new 2023 Toyota GR Supra Funny Car body, and everything went according to plan.”

The early-season West Coast swing will begin March 24-26 at the NHRA Arizona Nationals at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park in Chandler, Ariz.

Start / Finish: Qualified No. 1 / Defeated by Alexis DeJoria in the quarterfinals
Points Earned: 62
2023 NHRA Camping World Series Points Standing / Total: No. 6 / 62 pts. (-52)

Next Race: March 24-26, NHRA Arizona Nationals, Chandler, Ariz.
How to Watch or Listen: FS1; NHRA.TV

NAPA Racing:@NAPARacing
Ron Capps: @RonCapps28
Ron Capps Motorsports: @TeamRonCapps

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• In his second week filling in for the injured Chase Elliott, Josh Berry qualified 17th for Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. 
• The NASCAR Xfinity Series regular finished stage one in the 18th position and improved to 15th for stage two. After a late-race caution sent the race into overtime, the 32-year-old driver restarted in 13th and powered his way to 10th to end the day.
• It was Berry’s first career top-10 finish in the NASCAR Cup Series in just his fourth start.

Josh Berry, who was tabbed to fill in for the injured Chase Elliott on ovals as the Hendrick Motorsports driver continues to recover from a fractured tibia, qualified 17th for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. The NASCAR Xfinity Series regular made his second start for the No. 9 team on Sunday in the 312-lap event. He used the opening laps to settle in and find his groove as he continued adapting to the Next Gen car. Running in the 25th position on lap 19, he started to build his confidence and climbed to 22nd by lap 32. Berry’s forward progression didn’t stop there. He maneuvered his way to 20th on lap 46 and picked up two more positions to end the first stage in the 18th position on lap 60. During the stage-ending caution, Berry relayed that the No. 9 Kelley Blue Book Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 needed more security on entry and exit of the corner. Crew chief Alan Gustafson made the call for four fresh tires and fuel during the pit stop.

Scored in the 17th position after leaving pit road, Berry chose the bottom lane for the start of stage two on lap 68. He navigated the chaotic start to the stage and fought hard to stay inside the top 20. Berry swapped back and forth among the 19th and 21st positions throughout the opening 24 laps before dropping to 22nd on lap 93. The Hendersonville, Tennessee, native then reported that the Kelley Blue Book Chevrolet was freer this run. Not long after, green-flag pit stops ensued. Gustafson called Berry to pit road on lap 119 for four tires, fuel and a chassis adjustment to tighten up the No. 9. Once pit stops cycled through, Berry was scored in 19th. He was in that same position when the caution flag waved on lap 137 and the team took the opportunity to make a pit stop for four tires and fuel. A fast stop by the team propelled Berry to 15th for the lap-145 restart. The 32-year-old driver held his own in the closing laps of the second stage to take the green-and-white checkered flag in 15th.

After reporting that he needed a little more right-rear grip, Berry brought the No. 9 to pit road for four tires, fuel and a chassis adjustment. He lined up 14th for the start of the final stage on lap 194 and continued to race inside the top 20. As scheduled green-flag pit stops were drawing near, Gustafson asked for an update on the Kelley Blue Book Chevrolet’s handling. Berry reported that the No. 9 was tight in the center of the turns, so the team opted to reverse the previous chassis adjustment during its pit stop for four tires and fuel on lap 240. Once the field cycled through stops, he was in the 17th position and improved to 16th with just 29 circuits left in the race. When the caution flag waved with 10 laps to go, the team called Berry in for four tires and fuel. Leaving pit road in the 15th position, he took the green flag with just three laps to go and powered his way to 13th before another caution came out, sending the race into overtime. Once the race was back underway, Berry charged to 10th place before the checkered flag waved to score his first ever top-10 in the Cup Series in just his fourth career start.

All four Hendrick Motorsports drivers finished inside the top 10, with William Byron scoring the victory.

“It was a really solid day for the No. 9 Kelley Blue Book Chevy team,” Berry said. “We were able to improve a lot from what we had last week. We were able to stay on the lead lap basically the whole race. We had a couple of runs in there that were really good. A couple runs where we fell back a little bit, but it’s just all part of a learning experience for me. These races are so long and I need to be able to learn this car a little bit better where I can give Alan (Gustafson, crew chief) a little bit better direction on how to help me. Towards the end, we found that we were a little bit on the free side on our better runs. At the end there, we were probably going to finish 15th or 16th, which I was still pretty happy with. Obviously had the cautions there and we executed a couple of really good restarts there and was able to get a top-10.”

Start / Finish: 17 / 10

Next Race: Sunday, March 19, Atlanta Motor Speedway
How to Watch or Listen: FOX, PRN and SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Hendrick Motorsports: @TeamHendrick
No. 9 Team: @Hendrick9Team

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The first week of March took the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series back to where the 2023 season started: Barberville, Florida. While the annual Bike Week kicked off in nearby Daytona Beach, 23 competitors arrived at Volusia Speedway Park to compete in the Spring Showdown as well as to make up a rained out race from the Dirtcar Nationals three weeks prior.

Brad Sweet, driver of the No. 49 NAPA Auto Parts sprint car, was eighth in the qualifying order and hit the charts at 13.930 seconds, placing him seventh overall. That put the Big Cat third to start in Heat Race 1. With a relatively wet track at the green flag of the first heat race, cars quickly spread out and made passing difficult. Sweet finished his heat race where he started in third place.

Placed seventh to start the feature, Sweet and the No. 49 team were looking to advance. At the start, Sweet was shuffled back to ninth when his line was slower on the start. The four-time and defending series champion made every attempts to move forward, but the track was still too fast, and cars were lapping the circuit in a single lane. Battling dirty air from cars ahead, the NAPA No. 49 crossed the checkers in ninth place.

The second portion of Sunday night’s event included the make-up Dash and A-main from the rained-out Saturday night of the Dirtcar Nationals three weeks prior. With a chance to improve the car for the  current track conditions, Sweet and the NAPA Auto Parts No. 49 team saw a shot at redemption. Rolling off sixth in the six-lap Dash offered Sweet a six-lap opportunity to earn improve his starting spot in the A-main. From the drop of the green flag, Sweet’s NAPA machine came to life and launched him up to third place. Sweet looked to gain another spot but ran out of time.

With 30 laps to contest in the feature, Sweet was ready to use all 900 horsepower the No. 49 car could offer to make his move to the front. With an ideal setup, Sweet proved quick as the field took off. Running the preferred line, the NAPA driver made several charges to pass the leader. Sweet ultimately crossed the line in second, the podium finish offering redemption for the team’s unremarkable outcome earlier in the evening.

Monday marked the second night of the Spring Showdown and the final night of racing in Florida for the 2023 season. With 23 cars signed into competition, Sweet went out 17th in qualifying and laid down a lap time of 13.668 seconds, good for ninth quickest overall. Starting third in Heat Race 3, Sweet knew he needed to pick up at least one spot to advance to the Fast Pass Dash. When the green flag dropped on his heat race, Sweet launched into second and held the spot, locking him into the Dash.

“We are struggling a little bit, but the Dash gets you those extra laps to get your car a little better,” Sweet said during the Dash draw. “Hopefully we can have a good finish with our NAPA Auto Parts car down here at Volusia. We’ve had a lot of fun, and I’ve been down here quite a bit, so hopefully we can finish strong.”

After drawing the fifth spot to start the Dash, Sweet had six laps to improve his starting spot in the A-main. At the drop of the green, Sweet drove around the outside to claim fourth, holding the spot to the checkered flag.

Sweet focused on making strides toward the front when he rolled off from fourth in the 30-lap A-main. The NAPA driver quickly advanced to third following the drop of the green flag. After a mid-race caution, the No. 49 spun its tires on the restart and fell back to sixth, where the NAPA team ultimately finished.

Sweet and the NAPA Auto Parts team will enjoy some days off before they make their way to Port Royal, Penn., for the next Outlaws event.

Start / Finish: 
Sunday, Mar. 5, Spring Showdown: 7 / 9
Sunday, Mar. 5, Dirtcar Nationals make-up: 3 / 2
Monday, Mar. 6, Spring Showdown: 4 / 6
Points Standing / Total: 7th / 666 pts. (-56)

Next Race: Friday, March 10, Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal, Penn.
How to Watch or Listen: www.dirtvision.com

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Brad Sweet: @BradSweet49
Kasey Kahne Racing: @KKRdirt

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Get Vehicles Out of a Jam With a Wheel Dolly

If you’re the kind of mechanic who gets under the hood of dozens of cars, you already know the value of good tools. Sure, there are essential hand tools and power tools for your garage toolbox. But what about the perfect tool for some really heavy lifting—like a vehicle that won’t start? Park the tow truck and stow those tow straps because there’s a better way to move using car wheel dollies. 

Wheel dollies for cars can vary widely in style depending on the size of the vehicle you are moving and the amount you want to spend on a dolly. Whether you need to move a vehicle a few feet to make the most of your storage space, move a broken down or abandoned vehicle or simply get a vehicle un-stuck, let the experts at NAPA Auto Parts help you find the best car dollies for your garage so you can relocate that ride the fast and easy way!  

Choosing the Best Car Dolly

Vehicle wheel dollies or car dollies are also known as “car skates.” The nickname is fitting because that’s exactly how they work, and they use the same concept as a furniture dolly or a moving dolly. You can use these wheeled platforms in pairs or in sets of four—one on each wheel—to support the weight of a vehicle so you can easily maneuver it (sometimes by just one person)! 

Choosing the best car dolly all depends on a few factors:

• How often you’ll use it
• How much you want to spend
• How large the vehicles are that you want to lift or move

You should also bear in mind the kind of equipment to which you already have access. For example, while more advanced car dollies feature hydraulic functionality, basic models require a standard floor jack to lift the vehicle onto the dolly. You should also avoid storing vehicles on wheel dollies for extended periods of time, so make sure your garage is equipped with a reliable set of jack stands for long-term storage. 

A basic option like the Ranger RCD-1TD Wheel Dolly offers a no-nonsense approach. Each dolly is designed to withstand 1,000 pounds and features deep grooves so the vehicle’s wheels remain stable during transport. This set of Carlyle Tire Dollies offers a fully welded steel frame built to support 1,250 pounds, and the heavy-duty swivel casters are lockable for safety. No wheels on the vehicle—no problem! Use a jack along with this pair of OTC 1572 Car Dollies, which features padded saddles that can support up to 1,800 pounds and sit on the vehicle’s frame instead of the wheels.

How to Use a Hydraulic Wheel Dolly?

Hydraulic wheel dollies are very convenient pieces of equipment for any garage. There’s no need for risky maneuvers with long-handled floor jacks plus you can partially dissemble many models for easy storage. Additionally, because they are designed with adjustable slider bars, you can open and close the roller arms to accommodate many sizes of tires. 

Before you begin, double-check the weight of your vehicle and the size of your tires to make sure you’re using the right model of wheel dolly for the vehicle. This professional-grade Carlyle Hydraulic Wheel Dolly has a 1,500-pound weight rating and features 18 ½” aluminum roller arms that can adjust to accommodate wheels measuring 13”–24.” This beefy Ranger RCD-1500EX Wheel Dolly holds 19”–37” tires and can accommodate light-duty trucks and SUVs. 

When you’re ready to use your hydraulic wheel dollies, follow these steps:

1. With the vehicle parked, manually open the roller arms along the slider bar, then roll the dolly forward towards the vehicle, fitting the arms on either side of one front tire
2. Using your hand or foot, begin pumping the hydraulic pedal, so the roller arms close and raise the wheel
3. When you reach the desired height, lock the arms in place using the locking pin on the slide bar
4. Repeat for the other front wheels or on all four wheels

Nothing completes a set of lifting tools quite like a reliable set of car wheel dollies. Now you can relocate any vehicle without starting the engine or waiting on a tow truck. Shop NAPAonline.com for all our great deals on garage tools and equipment. NAPA Rewards Members get more! Enjoy early access and exclusive deals, as well as a $5 bonus when you join. Already a NAPA Rewards member? Complete your profile to unlock your $5 bonus today. 

Photo courtesy of pxhere.

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Christian Eckes continued his strong start to the 2023 NASCAR Cratfsman Truck Series season with a sixth-place result on Friday night at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS). The finish marks Eckes’ second-straight top-10 finish as has the driver of the No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet Silverado RST sits third in the championship standings after two events. In seven trips to LVMS, Eckes has now collected top-10 finishes in six starts.

The Middletown, N.Y., native laid down the 12th-fastest lap in pole qualifying and began the 134-lap event from the outside of row six. Eckes wasted little time making moves towards the front as he immediately broke into the top-10 and advanced to fifth by lap three. A caution on lap 19 brought Eckes within reach of the leaders and provided an opportunity to battle for the stage win. On lap 29, Eckes sent his Chevrolet through the middle of a three-wide race for the lead into Turn 3 and was forced to make a stunning sideways save. The aggressive move displayed immense truck control and preserved his Silverado RST for the remainder of the evening.

Crew chief Charles Denike brought Eckes to pit road under the first stage caution for four tires, fuel and a chassis adjustment to tighten the balance on the NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet. Eckes restarted 24th on lap 36 but took full advantage of two restarts during the second segment to regain his track position. He advanced from 20th to 12th on the lap-45 restart and drove from seventh to fourth on the lap-53 restart. A third caution during the second stage flew on lap 54 and brought most of the front runners to pit lane, including Eckes. Another batch of fresh tires and fuel set the No. 19 team up to contend for the victory in the later laps but relegated them out of stage points at lap 60 after being scored 13th.

After sustaining minor left side damage by avoiding an incident on lap 60, Denike kept Eckes on track during the stage caution, which proved to be the prudent decision. Eckes grabbed the runner-up position on lap 68 following the final restart and challenged eventual victor Kyle Busch for the race lead. As the evening’s longest green flag run wore on, Eckes’ handling condition swung loose, losing rear lateral grip. While running fifth, Eckes made his final pit stop under green on lap 100 and cycled back around to the fifth position by lap 111. His Chevrolet remained on the loose side for the remaining 23 circuits as he drove to the checkered flag in sixth position.

“This No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet was really, really fast tonight,” Eckes said. “I felt like it was race-winning capable. Super proud of everybody, a little too aggressive on my end, but we’ll go to Atlanta and race them hard there. It was pretty easy (coming through the field). I pride myself on restarts and was just able to drive through the pack the couple times we restarted pretty deep. We had a really fast truck tonight and we’ll try to put it all together at Atlanta in a couple weeks.”

Start / Finish: 12 / 6
Points Standing / Total: 3rd / 81 pts. (-4)

Next Race: Saturday, March 18, Atlanta Motor Speedway
How to Watch or Listen: FS1, MRN, SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Christian Eckes: @christianeckes
Bill McAnally Racing: @BMR_NASCAR

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• After Chase Elliott suffered a fractured tibia in a snowboarding accident on Friday, NASCAR Xfinity Series regular Josh Berry was tapped to fill in as the driver of the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Sunday’s Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
• In his first start in a Next Gen car, Berry adapted well, climbing from 32nd to 24th to round out stage one. The Hendersonville, Tennessee, native followed that up with a 26th-place finish in stage two before ultimately taking the checkered flag in 29th after battling through an issue with the throttle.

After Chase Elliott suffered a fractured tibia in a snowboarding accident on Friday, NASCAR Xfinity Series regular Josh Berry was tapped to fill in as the driver of the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet for Sunday’s Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Turning his first ever laps in a Next Gen car, Berry qualified in the 32nd position. After the green flag dropped, the 32-year-old took the opening laps to adapt and managed to gain a few positions before green-flag pit stops commenced. Once the field cycle through stops, Berry was scored in 26th. He continued his climb forward, taking the green-and-white checkered flag to end stage one in 24th at the conclusion of lap 80.

During the stage break, Berry radioed to the team that the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevy’s balance was better than it had been on Saturday, but that the car was a little on the tight side. After a pit stop for four tires and fuel, he started stage two from 24th on lap 89 and lost a few spots after making slight contact with the wall. When green-flag pit stops ensued, the team called Berry in for four tires, fuel and a chassis adjustment on lap 122. Scored in 29th once pit stops cycled through, he reported that the No. 9 was much better. Berry pressed forward as the run went on and was scored in the 26th position to end stage two. Under the caution, he communicated to crew chief Alan Gustafson that the throttle pedal felt sticky. He added that he was struggling in dirty air as he was learning the new car.

Berry took the green flag for the final stage from the 28th position on lap 172 and was scored in 29th when the caution flag waved on lap 184. With the team being two laps down due to long green-flag runs throughout the race, Gustafson made the call for Berry to take the wave around to get one of the laps back. During the final stage Berry continued to report issues with the throttle and when a caution came out with just four laps to go, the team made a pit stop for four tires, fuel and attempted to make repairs. After further evaluation, the team determined that they wouldn’t be able to fix the issue and sent Berry back out for the overtime restart. He battled hard in those finals laps, ultimately taking the checkered flag in the 29th position.

“I learned a lot, especially in the first two stages,” Berry said. “I think we definitely saw at times we were running some pretty good lap times. Just struggled with dirty air; knowing where to put the car and how to do that. There’s a lot of learning to be done, but all-in-all, it was still a pretty good time.”

Start / Finish: 32 / 29

Next Race: Sunday, March 12, Phoenix Raceway
How to Watch or Listen: FOX, MRN and SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Hendrick Motorsports: @TeamHendrick
No. 9 Team: @Hendrick9Team

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Our Top-Selling Craftsman Tools

NAPA is proud to offer Craftsman tools, a reliable brand in existence for nearly 100 years and manufacturing lines of garage tools, lawn and garden equipment and protective work gear. The household brand has changed owners throughout the years beginning with Sears. Today, Craftsman is headed by Stanley Black & Decker. The household name proved that it is one that stands the test of time, and it continues to aid homeowners, builders, early career technicians and master mechanics with top-of-the-line manufacturing practices.

The Craftsman 2000 Series 5-Drawer Tool Chest comes in the recognizable, beautiful red steel, which resists rust and corrosion plus includes a standard warranty for your protection. The unit is built to last and features a large charging station beneath the lid. The integrated power strip has six outlets and two USB ports so you’re never without the power you need. With each soft-close drawer supporting up to 100 pounds, feel free to add some of your heaviest tools and get organized! You’ll love the internal lock and key system that keeps your things protected and out of the reach of thieves.

The iconic 44-inch Craftsman Tool Box offers you even more storage space and is manufactured for high durability with a 1,500-pound rating. It features 5-inch by 2-inch casters, which sport tow-locking brakes and reinforced mounts, making it a breeze to move around the garage without breaking apart. The robust steel frame includes a full-grip, tubular side handle and is proudly made in the USA.

Craftsman makes a host of USA-made and globally sourced products like portable tool boxes, tool boxes on wheels and stationary tool boxes (that include foldable workspaces), tool chests, tool cabinets, tool sets, bags, power tools and more.

NAPA offers a range of prices to fit your budget so that you can enjoy the Craftsman advantage! Price ranges span from less than $100 to more than $400 and are worth every penny given their durability, track record and customer reviews. There is something for everyone. This lockable tools-on-wheels option is designed for mobile mechanics. Made as a secure option for stowing your gear and stacking your tools, it is easy to handle, engineered with heavy-duty, rust-resistant metal latches and designed in the iconic Craftsman red and black colors.

What Tools Does Craftsman Sell?

Are you in need of new parts and tools? Because things like work lights frequently quit and may need replacing, this Cordless LED Hanging Worklight does the trick when working in low-light conditions or at night. It features a strong hang hook to keep your lumens in place and get precision illumination right where you need it most. Invest in improving your visibility and stay safe.

The Craftsman V20 Ratchet delivers up to 35-foot pounds of torque with a speed of 300 RPM and has a variable speed trigger to help you control the unit during use. It’s compact for easy stowing and includes a convenient LED work light to keep you safe. The proof is in the reviews, where one happy customer gave this ratchet 5 stars and stated, “I’ve had two of these for about a year now, so they’ve been tested well. The ratchet mechanism is great and very strong. The power is great, and I think it’s even a little higher torque than it’s rated for personally. It’s the right size, too, not too big to make it unusable in tight spots. Very high quality and when you factor in the price of it, it’s hard to beat.”

If your hand tools have started to rust or are stripped, look into purchasing the polished chrome 32-piece 12-point Combination Wrench Set or the 135-piece Mechanics Tool Set. Additionally, shop for unconventional garage accessories like air compressors, lithium ion air inflators, polishers, power tool battery kits, electric pole saws and even a cordless Bluetooth jobsite radio.

Every technician needs wire cutter pliers, battery chargers, an oil filter wrench and especially a sturdy and stylish work bench, so consider shopping the Craftsman brand on NAPA for all of your home or commercial garage needs. Fan favorites include Craftsman rotary tools, Craftsman air tools, hand tool sets and its line of oscillating tools, kits and 20v tools. Order all the tools you want and connect to our professionals from the palm of your hand by downloading the NAPA KNOW HOW App. And, remember, NAPA Auto Parts now offers NAPA Rewards, which gives you one Point for every $1 you spend—sign up today and save!

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Benefits of a Ceramic Car Wash

The only thing that can make cruising around in your prized ride more delightful is cruising around with it stunningly shiny. Properly washing and detailing your vehicle at home is a great way to keep it looking the way you want. And, because an at-home car wash means you’re going over your vehicle from top to bottom, you can check for any cosmetic issues like damaged trim or chipped paintwork.

If you’ve stuck to the basic hands-free automated car washes in the past, you may have noticed a range of cosmetic issues surfacing after the dirt and grime is rinsed away. While swirling and micro scratches are just a bothersome eyesore, chipped paint can expose the metal underneath to rust and corrosion. At best, this can decrease your resale value and, at worst, you’re dealing with costly body damage.

The latest advancements in car wash detergents and polymers have led to improvements in the way we maintain our vehicles, both with professional car washes and at home. Enter, the ceramic car wash. Check out all the benefits of ceramic coating and ceramic car washes here plus shop NAPAOnline.com for everything you need to get a resilient, brilliant shine on your vehicle.

What is a Ceramic Coating and How Does It Perform?

In the 1900s, enamel coating was used to help protect vehicles from rust and corrosion. As automotive paint developed, carnauba wax became the most common way to safeguard the paintwork and buff out small scratches. Harvested from palm trees native to Brazil, this wax has a wide variety of uses in the cosmetics, food and medical industries. In the 1950s, scientists developed blends of silicone dioxide and titanium dioxide that would one day become the ceramic coatings we know today.

Then came the 1980s, a big decade for vehicle wax (and not just thanks to the “wax on, wax off” technique featured in “The Karate Kid”)! Teflon coatings were developed; however, these coatings deteriorate with repeated washing and only provide approximately six months of durability. Then a new ceramic coating known as nano ceramic hit the market. Using a synthetic silicon dioxide blend, this unique formula creates a chemical bond with automotive paint, and the resulting polymer layer provides a super-protective lacquer-like coat with a brilliant candy-shell shine that really turns heads.

A nano-ceramic coating is the perfect addition to any car enthusiast’s cleaning routine. The initial application fills in swirling and micro scratches plus the hydrophobic properties repel water and protect against harmful UV rays. Best of all, ceramic coatings help maintain a beautiful finish for months and even years at a time. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy fewer and less labor-intensive vehicle washes.

Because applying ceramic coatings requires a long curing time in a stable environment, many drivers avoid this process at home by having the formulation applied professionally. But for those brave souls, NAPAOnline.com has ceramic kits, ceramic car wash and ceramic wax sprays, as well as soaps that work with your existing ceramic coat, such as Chemical Guys HydroSUDS. You can find every product you need to apply and maintain a successful ceramic coat at NAPA.

NAPA Expert Tips: Sustaining That Showroom Shine

Even if you choose to skip a ceramic coating altogether, you can still get great results at home using a hybrid ceramic wax or ceramic car wash like the Armor All Extreme Shield Ceramic Car Wash and Mothers CMX Ceramic Wash and Coat.

The key to getting all the benefits of a ceramic car wash is using the proper two-bucket car wash method. Use two buckets outfitted with grit guards so the water does not fill with small contaminants that can cause swirling and micro scratches to appear on paintwork. Grit guards keep dirt trapped at the bottom of the bucket and out of the washing mixture and rinsing water. A good tire brush, a wash mitt and microfiber towels delivers a professional-grade vehicle wash at home.

• Tip #1: Always use a foaming prewash. Using a foam sprayer that hooks directly to your hose nozzle makes this first step easy.

• Tip #2: Wash in the shade. To avoid UV damage and water spots, you should try to wash your vehicle in the shade or in the early morning or late evening. Worst case, keep a pop-up tent on hand to make a perfect shady area for wash days, right in your driveway.

• Tip #3: Wash tires separately. Start with washing your tires because they are the dirtiest parts of your vehicle, and you don’t want all that dirt and grime to end up back on your freshly washed vehicle. Begin with a preliminary cleaning, then add polishes and tire wet once the whole vehicle is cleaned and waxed.

• Tip #4: Avoid washing with circular motions. If you follow these steps, you should have little or no debris contacting your paintwork. However, if there is a bit of debris present, the micro scratches will appear less obvious if they are in a line rather than a light-diffusing swirl pattern.

The experts at NAPA know how much fun it is to drive a pristine, gleaming machine. A well-maintained vehicle inside and out will love you back and get you down the road longer. So, let us help you keep your ride shining and protected. Shop our range of ceramic car washes and ceramic coating kits plus get in and out faster than ever! Participating NAPA Auto Parts stores now offer a convenient Buy Online, Pickup In Store option so you can get back on the road in no time.

Featured image courtesy of Pixabay.

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The Latest in EV Brake Technology

Advances in electric vehicle systems are happening at record speed. Entire components are getting eliminated. What was once old is new again. But the NAPA experts are warning customers not to get ahead of themselves. Let’s slow down, stop spinning our wheels from all this momentum and start with the basics.

How do brakes work on an electric car? Almost all personal vehicles use disc brakes containing a pair of brake pads attached to a brake caliper, which squeezes the disc to generate friction and slow the wheel’s rotation. Electric cars utilize these standard mechanical brakes in cases of low speed and sudden emergency braking. In addition, an electric car brake system (found in hybrids, plug-in hybrids and full EVs) incorporates regenerative braking.

Many consumers are familiar with brakes on electric cars because of the popularity in the past decade of the Toyota Prius, which uses regenerative braking to deliver better fuel economy. Electric car brakes (regenerative brakes) capture the energy output (propulsion power) when a vehicle is slowing down, turning the electric motor into a generator for the battery pack. In more technical terms, the brake system in a hybrid or electric vehicle applies reverse current to the motor, which opens the charging circuit.

The EV’s computer system determines the amount of ‘brake’ getting applied from the backward running motor, thus decreasing the speed until the vehicle comes to a stop. In a fully electric vehicle, this controlled braking extends the travel range by replenishing the battery system. As much as 90% of everyday braking is operated by this electric power switch. The hydraulic system (aggressively depressing the brake pedal to activate brake pads) is only necessary at speeds under 3 mph (when there isn’t enough energy momentum to transfer) or at high speeds with sudden emergency braking. 

This ‘brake-through’ technology has created challenges when it comes to a seamless transition between regeneration and foundation braking. To create an unnoticeable transition with no rough jitters or jumping, Porsche developed algorithms for their new Taycan model that constantly monitor the friction brake system so that the regenerative brakes create matching pressure.

Similarly, the design of the Porsche Taycan also tackles the unequal distribution of braking power between the vehicle’s two axles. Two thirds of stopping power is provided by the front axle. This means the front brakes capture 60 to 80 percent of a slowing vehicle’s momentum compared to the rear battery generator. Learn more about leveraging braking force between the axles in the January 2023 article by ElectricCarsReport, Porsche Explains Taycan Regen Braking.

The Future of EVs Might Involve Reaching Into the Past

For many decades, the advancements in brake systems have relied on improvements made to an isolated system. But with the expansion of consumer EVs, braking systems are now interconnected to the battery, powertrain and electronic conduction involved in deceleration. The way electric brake systems function has actually pushed car designers to reconsider an ‘outdated’ technology, drum brakes. 

At one time, brake drums were the standard on personal vehicles until the invention of disc brake systems, which provided quicker stopping force. Because EVs require less engagement of mechanical brakes, especially on the rear axle, these newer vehicles run the risk of failing discs due to corrosion and rust from lack of use. This has generated renewed interest in rear axle drum brakes, which are sealed off from road and weather conditions. Learn more about why old-school drum brake technology is possibly the way of the future for compact commuter EVs in congested cities with How the Rising Popularity of EVs Could Lead to a Resurgence of Drum Brakes.

Because regenerative braking redirects the energy involved in stopping the vehicle, the lack of friction reduces the thermal load on your brakes and brake pads. This has led vehicle manufacturers to consider using thinner materials (like aluminum combined with cast iron) in brake pads, calipers and discs, which in turn makes EVs lighter weight and more energy efficient (longer runtime on a full battery). For a brake drum, this thinning can result in a 30% decrease in mass. However, in traditional brake systems, that large mass is required to absorb heat. So, the determining factor in using old tech for new EVs comes down to retaining enough resistance to heat-related brake fade.

Stop by NAPA Auto Care for EV Brake Maintenance

Now let’s talk about replacing EV brake pads and other components. Although mechanical brakes on a hybrid or EV are only relied on for quick, complete stopping, these components are still vital because regenerative systems are not designed for emergency braking or firmly holding a vehicle still. Relying on the motor to handle declaration does mean that brake pads for electric vehicles don’t wear out as quickly as full hydraulic brake systems on gasoline-powered combustion vehicles.

However, because they are used less (yet still exposed to moisture and grime), it is critical to ensure your EV brake pads are in good shape. This means routine maintenance and periodic cleaning every year versus wear-related replacement. For example, Tesla recommends cleaning and lubricating the brake calipers on a Model 3 once a year (or every 12,500 miles) for those who live in an area that uses road salt.

It is also true that fully electric cars do not require oil changes, exhaust inspections or spark plug replacement. But these prized vehicles still need brake system care, such as checking the brake fluid at least every two years. Dirty brake fluid needs a full brake system flush to prevent it from harming expensive auto parts. When in doubt, take your vehicle to a local NAPA Auto Care center near you.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash.

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• Chase Elliott started Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Auto Club Speedway from the 33rd position after qualifying was rained out and the starting lineup was determined by the rule book. 
• The 27-year-old drove to a 10th-place finish in the first stage and took the green-and-white checkered flag in seventh to end the second stage. 
• The 2020 Cup Series champion continued his climb forward in the final stage, earning a second-place finish in the 200-lap race in Fontana, California.
• Elliott now sits 14th in the point standings after the second event of the 2023 season, 43 points behind the leader.

After a weekend full of rain in Fontana, California, the NASCAR Cup Series took the green flag on Sunday afternoon for its 200-lap race at Auto Club Speedway. Chase Elliott and the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts team started the race from the 33rd position after the lineup was set according to the rule book. It didn’t take long for Elliott to begin his climb forward. When the competition caution flag waved at the conclusion of lap 15, the Dawsonville, Georgia, native was scored in the 25th position. Under caution, Elliott reported that his NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 was getting tight center off during the run. The team made its first pit stop of the day for four tires, fuel and an air-pressure adjustment. 

Elliott was 25th after his pit stop and chose the top lane for the restart on lap 20. He made quick work of the cars ahead of him, charging his way to 12th by lap 41. Just one lap later the caution flag was displayed and crew chief Alan Gustafson called Elliott to pit road for four fresh tires, fuel and an air-pressure adjustment. A fast stop by the No. 9 pit crew catapulted Elliott to seventh upon leaving pit road. The 2020 Cup Series champion chose the top lane once again. Elliott maneuvered his way to fifth on lap 49, but his No. 9 Chevrolet was too free as the run progressed and he was scored 10th at the conclusion of stage one on lap 65. During the stage-ending caution, the team made the call to reverse the previous adjustments during its pit stop for four tires and fuel in an effort to tighten up the NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet.

Elliott chose the top lane to start the second stage on lap 72 and was running in 13th when the caution flag waved just two laps later. The team made another stop for four tires and fuel and Elliott restarted just inside the top 15 on lap 79. He improved his position and made his way back up to 10th before the caution flag waved on lap 81. After opting to stay out on the track, Elliott was scored in eighth and took the top lane for the restart. Before the entire field could take the green flag, a multi-car incident brought out the yellow flag once again. Staying out for a second time, he took the top for the lap-91 restart. Elliott faded to 13th on lap 97, but as the run went on his Chevrolet came to life. The driver of the No. 9 powered his way to seventh before the green-and-white checkered flag waved to end stage two on lap 130. During the stage break, the team made a fast pit stop for four tires and fuel, gaining Elliott two positions.

The 27-year-old driver was scored in the fifth position following his pit stop and chose the top lane before the start of the final stage on lap 136. He was in that same spot when the caution flag was displayed on lap 141. Gustafson called Elliott to pit road for four tires and the team packed the No. 9 Chevrolet full of fuel. He lined up seventh for the choose cone and opted for the top lane. The field took the green flag for the restart with just 55 laps to go and Elliott continued to battle inside the top 10. He was back up to fifth on lap 149 and gained two more positions before scheduled green flag pit stops began around lap 165. Gustafson called Elliott to pit road on lap 167 for the team’s final pit stop of the day. On lap 175, the Hendrick Motorsports driver was in the fourth position with one car left to pit. He continued to track down the cars ahead of him, advancing to second on lap 182. Elliott drove hard in the final laps but ran out of time to battle for the lead. He ultimately took the checkered flag in the second position, his best career finish at the 2-mile facility. Kyle Busch claimed the victory. Elliott’s runner-up finish and stage points earned helped him improve to 14th in the Cup Series point standings. He is just 43 points behind the leader as the series heads to Las Vegas Motor Speedway next weekend.

“Just really proud of our team,” Elliott said. “We obviously didn’t run very good there toward the end of the year last year, and everybody really went to work hard over the winter to try and get better. I appreciate everybody on our NAPA team for just sticking with it and sticking with each other. I think we still have some work to do, but it was really nice to just see a lot of that hard work pay off and have the car driving like we were wanting it to do. That’s always a good thing. Appreciate everybody’s effort; everybody at Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.”

Start / Finish: 33 / 2
Points Standing / Total: 14th / 49 pts. (-43)

Next Race: Sunday, March 5, Las Vegas Motor Speedway
How to Watch or Listen: 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX, PRN and SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Hendrick Motorsports: @TeamHendrick
No. 9 Team: @Hendrick9Team

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One of the most frustrating things while working on a car is coming across a rounded lug nut. Maybe someone used a standard socket on a metric nut, or maybe someone went overboard with an impact gun. Either way the lug nut is now rounded off and you can’t remove your wheel. Knowing how to remove a rounded lug nut is essential when you’re working on a car. It might not be the most technical part of the job, but it’s something you’re bound to run into at some point, so let’s talk about how to remove a rounded lug nut.

Socket and Hammer Method

We find this works in most situations where you have to deal with a rounded lug nut. All you need is lubricating oil, a nut and bolt extractor set, a hammer, a breaker bar and a 1-inch diameter piece of iron pipe. That and some muscle should do the trick.

1. Apply Oil

Loosen up the lug nut by applying liberal amounts of penetrating oil to the base. If it’s rusty, then this step is especially important. Even if the lug nut looks okay, applying oil will allow it to spin more freely and make the process easier.

2. Pick a Socket

You want a tight fit here, so pick the smallest possible size that will fit around the lug nut. If the socket slides off and on easily, then it’s too big. You’re aiming for one that’s a bit smaller than the lug nut you’re trying to remove. If you have to use a hammer to get it to slide into place, then you’re on the right track.

3. Be Gentle with the Hammer

The socket should require a few taps with a hammer to get it into place, but take it easy. You don’t want to smack away at the thing like you’re forging Thor’s hammer. All you need to do is get the socket firmly secured over the lug nut.

4. Use the Breaker Bar

Once the socket is firmly in place, attach the breaker bar. You can also slide an iron pipe over the handle to give yourself extra leverage, but you might not need one. If you’re strong enough, then you may be able to break the lug nut free just by pushing down on the breaker bar counterclockwise. Otherwise, a few good whacks with a hammer should break the nut free.

If That Fails …

There are alternative methods you can use if the socket and hammer method doesn’t work. You could also use a chisel and hammer to remove rust and loosen the nut. A grinder and a wrench can also be used, or you could even use a blowtorch to warm it up so it expands and you can get a better fit for the socket. If you have room you can use a nut splitter to break the lug nut apart. Just be careful not to damage the wheel stud or else you will need to replace it.

A rounded lug nut is an annoyance, but a little time and elbow grease will get it free quickly so you can finish the job at hand. You can also head to your local NAPA Auto Care and let our experts handle the job for you. If the lug nut is just too far gone or hard to reach due to wheel design, it may make sense to outsource the job.

Check out all the lug nut products available on NAPAonline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information about how to remove a rounded lug nut, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store.

Photo courtesy Flickr.

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Get the Hookup on Vehicle Winches

When you feel that tug, that tight pull on the line, it is critical to reel in the prize without snapping or snagging your expensive recovery gear. For off-road enthusiasts, the most important aftermarket accessory is a high-quality winch designed for their exact recovery needs and that will grip tightly and never let go. A good vehicle winch is engineered to pull your ride out of monstrous ruts on mudding trails, guide you across shifting sand in no man’s land or even flip your lifted Jeep upright after a failed rock climb. Whether your precarious situation is sticky muck or slick wet rock, the NAPA experts are here to get you out of a jam with this shopping guide. 

An easily transportable, versatile option, such as the Superwinch Winch2Go Portable Winch, is a great addition to any boat, ATV, 4-wheeler or snowmobile. This on-the-go winch includes a solid steel base plate and a pulley block with a 4,000-pound direct line pull. This critical equipment also contains D-shackles, straps, a power cord, quick-connect battery cables, a handheld remote and a pair of leather winching gloves. Getting ready for a big haul? Check out the Superwinch S Series Trailer Utility Winch from the only manufacturer producing winches specifically for trailers.

A motorized cable system can provide a variety of recovery, safety and utility applications that will pull your crew through without getting ‘stuck.’ Not only can an automotive winch help you clear large fallen limbs from your favorite trail, it can also pull your vehicle out of a snow embankment when anchored to a sturdy tree trunk. For this and more, go with the capability of a front bumper mounted winch stationed in a multi-mount winch frame like this Steelcraft Elevation Bullnose Front Bumper. Nothing beats the impressive appearance and “I’ve got this” attitude that a winch mounted to the front bumper of an off-road monster delivers. Also, check out the Bestop HighRock Narrow Off-Road Front Bumper. Its appealing low-profile appearance constructed from laser-cut stamped steel includes tapering at the endpoints to accommodate extra-large tires.

You Need a Jeep, SUV or Truck Winch That Works for You

When shopping for a vehicle winch, you need a reliable, strong motor and tough, solid gears. Compare the three models of the Warn VR EVO Winch to pair with your two-door Jeep, deluxe SUV or 1-ton pickup truck. This entire Warn winch series includes a powerful series-wound motor and planetary gear train that delivers supreme line speed with a low amp draw.

The most important consideration when choosing an automotive winch is that it is rated to pull double the weight of your vehicle, including any customizations and standard cargo. The NAPA experts say to always go larger than the pulling strength you think you will need. The compact, budget-friendly Superwinch LT Series ATV Winch series offers up to a 4,000-pound weight capacity for small recreational vehicles used in hunting or landscaping, while the Superwinch Talon Series Winch series delivers up to a 12,500-pound pull rating for heavy-duty vehicles, without sacrificing torque or control.   

You should ensure your aftermarket investment is fabricated to withstand extreme weather conditions in any climate. Check that your new Jeep, SUV or truck winch includes a rated or sealed waterproof motor housing like the Warn AXON Powersports Winch, which is rated IP68 water-resistant and finished with a black powder coat and stainless steel fasteners for ultimate corrosion protection. Plus, the electrical components are covered by a 3-Year Warranty, while the mechanical components are covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Heat and abrasion resistance is another important factor to consider when shopping for a bumper-mounted winch. The Mile Marker 9,000 Lbs. and Up Electric Winch incorporates 100 feet of galvanized aircraft cable and connections reinforced with fiberglass polymer sheaths. This built-to-last winch is also engineered with a popular safety feature: automatic load-holding brakes. An automatic brake on a winch averts accidents by preventing a heavy load from ‘running away.’ When the system is overloaded, the dynamic brake engages to slow down or stop the drum’s rotation to prevent damage to your equipment. Learn more about dynamic brakes.

Don’t Leave Home Without These Winch Accessories

Operating a fully automated bumper-mounted winch is draining, so it is vital to confirm that your vehicle’s electrical system can take on the challenge. Most recovery systems rely on the vehicle battery, which can become overheated or run out of charge from too much winching. The entire point is not to get stranded in the backcountry! NAPA experts highly recommend upgrading to a deep-cycle battery, which is designed to discharge of capacity with no long-term issues. Read the product details on this maintenance-free NAPA Gel Deep Cycle Battery engineered to handle harsh vibrations.

Many of the winches for Jeeps, trucks and SUVs in the NAPAonline catalog allow you to choose a winch cable fabricated from steel or synthetic material. A synthetic rope is bendable, stretchable, lighter and more manageable around obstacles. However, they are very susceptible to damage from UV exposure, chemicals and abrasion. In comparison, a steel cable is constructed for durability in rocky environments and sturdiness in emergency situations. Know that steel cable can fray or break under certain conditions though, so always monitor the cable and lead plus wear safety gloves when winching.

A safe, yet effective, distance is also a measured factor when selecting a winch. If your cable is too long, then the force of your winch is cut short when used at close range. Yet, going too short might hinder the positioning you need or not extend across a vast space. The most common length is 100 feet. You will also want to confirm before purchasing a winch that it has a wireless remote control. This advanced safety feature allows you to operate the system from a safe distance or even from inside the cabin of your vehicle.

Whatever obstacle lies in your path, NAPA has the solution for you. Browse our vehicle winches engineered for heavy-duty commercial and industrial applications, such as the 15,000-pound capacity Warrior Series Hydraulic Winch or the DK2 Warrior NH Series Hydraulic Winch. Before finishing your purchase, remember to add a few winch accessories, including a tree trunk protector, tow strap, shackles, pulley block and gloves from popular brands like ARB, Rugged Ridge and Smittybilt.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash.

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Your brake fluid is one of the most important liquids in your vehicle. Brake fluid is what transmits your foot’s movement of pressing on the brake pedal into movement of the friction material at the wheel. It is rarely seen unless you check their brake fluid level or are unlucky enough to have a brake system leak. But your brake fluid is not immortal and needs changed just like any other automotive fluid. Your owner’s manual lists how often to flush brake fluid for a reason, so let’s take a look at how to flush brake fluid.

Why Flush Fluid Brake Fluid?

Just like every other automotive fluid, brake fluid changes as time passes. In the case of brake fluid, it gets contaminated. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water. That’s bad because if the water content in the brake fluid gets too high, it might boil under heavy braking. Brake fluid can also become contaminated with rust and copper. 

Brake Fluid Flush Preparation

Before starting a brake flush, you need to take these first no matter which type of brake flush method you choose:

1. Turn off the ignition of the vehicle.
2. Using a vacuum bulb or similar siphon, remove almost all of the old brake fluid from the brake fluid reservoir. Leave a shallow puddle of it to prevent air from entering the brake system.
3. Top off the brake reservoir with fresh brake fluid.
4. Lift the vehicle off the ground and support it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle that is only supported by a jack. A jack is a lifting device only, a jack stand is a support device.
5. Remove the tires and wheels. If possible, remove all four wheels, but you may also flush one wheel at a time.
6. Place a drain pan under each wheel that you flush to catch the brake fluid as it drips.

Once these steps are completed, you can move on to the brake flush method of your choice.

Gravity Brake Flush

With this method you let gravity do all the work. The tradeoff is that it takes more time than any other method.

1. Open the brake bleeder valve on each wheel
2. The brake fluid will drip from the open bleeder valves
3. Keep the brake reservoir filled with fresh brake fluid
4. Wait for the fluid dripping from the bleeder valve to run clear (this may take more than an hour)
5. Once the brake fluid runs clear, close the bleeder valve
6. Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary

Manual Brake Flush

This is the method most people think of when bleeding or flushing brakes. One person sits in the driver’s seat working the brake pedal while another person opens up the bleeder valves.

1. Have an assistant sit in the driver’s seat
2. Choose a wheel and locate the brake bleeder valve
3. Ask the assistant to pump the brake pedal three times and then hold it down
4. Open the brake bleeder valve to release the pressurized fluid
5. Close the brake bleeder valve
6. Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with fresh fluid if necessary
7. Repeat steps 3–6 until the fluid is clear
8. Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary

Pressure Brake Flush

Pressure brake fluid tools have become increasingly popular. This brake fluid flush tool uses pressurized air to push brake fluid through the system.

1. Read the instructions included with the pressure brake fluid tool
2. Fill the pressure brake fluid tool with fresh brake fluid as directed in the tool instructions
3. Attach the pressure adapter to the brake fluid reservoir 
4. Pressurize the tool as directed in the tool instructions
5. Open the brake bleeder valve to release the pressurized fluid, and allow the fluid to flow until it is clear
6. Close the brake bleeder valve
7. Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary

Vacuum Brake Flush

As the name implies, this method uses a vacuum tool to pull brake fluid through the system. It is usually part of a brake fluid flushing kit that includes a brake fluid catch bottle.

1. Read the instructions included with the vacuum brake fluid tool
2. Attach the vacuum brake fluid tool to the brake bleeder valve
3. Pump the vacuum brake fluid tool to create vacuum at the brake bleeder valve
4. Open the brake bleeder valve to begin pulling brake fluid through the system
5. Allow the brake fluid to flow until it is clear
6. Close the brake bleeder valve
7. Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with fresh fluid if necessary
8. Repeat steps 3–7 until the fluid is clear
9. Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary

Regardless of which brake flush method you choose, the goal is to replace as much old fluid as possible. You will likely use more brake fluid than you expect, but considering the long service interval, it is worth using a bit more fluid just to make certain. There is no difference between a brake fluid change vs. flush, they are the same process with the same goal: new brake fluid.

The cost to flush brake fluid depends on who is doing the work. A DIY brake flush at home will only cost you the price of a few bottles of brake fluid, but a professional brake fluid flush using specialized equipment will likely put the cost at more than $100. 

Check out all the brake flush products available on NAPAonline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to do a brake fluid flush and a typical brake fluid flush price, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store.

You Might Need These

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• Chase Elliott started the 65th running of the DAYTONA 500 from the eighth position on Sunday afternoon at Daytona International Speedway.
• The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion finished 38th in the race after getting caught up in an on-track incident on Lap 119 that caused heavy damage to the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
• Next weekend, Elliott and the No. 9 team head to Auto Club Speedway for second race of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season.

Chase Elliott and the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts team started eighth in Sunday’s 65th running of the DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway. The five-time Most Popular Driver stayed within the main pack and ran inside the top 10 for several laps. However, the field became single-file as teams grew closer to green-flag stops, causing Elliott to lose some positions. Several Chevrolet drivers made their way to pit road on Lap 38, with Elliott getting two right-side tires and fuel for his No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Camaro ZL1. Once the field cycled through pit stops, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion was running in the bottom lane near the front of the field. He worked his way inside the top five on lap 53, but the top lane grew stronger as the first stage went on and Elliott was shuffled back to 17th by time the green-and-white checkered flag waved on lap 65. Under the stage-ending caution, crew chief Alan Gustafson called Elliott to pit road for four fresh tires and fuel. 

Elliott chose the outside lane for the start of the second stage and raced mid-pack as the field stayed double-file for the opening laps. At the race’s halfway point, he was scored in the 24th position and moved to the bottom lane just a handful of laps later in preparation for another round of green-flag pit stops. The Chevrolet drivers came to pit road on lap 107 and the NAPA Auto Parts team opted for fuel only, which helped propel Elliott back into the top 10 on Lap 113. Just six laps later, Elliott’s day took a turn when an on-track incident occurred ahead of him. The 27-year-old had almost worked his way through the chaos, but another car came back up onto the track and Elliott had nowhere to go. His NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet was collected in the incident and was too damaged to continue in the race. Elliott was ultimately scored with a 38th-place finish.

“It looked like some guys got tangled up front,” Chase Elliott said. “Those of us in the back were just scattering to kind of miss it. It looked like the No. 5 (Kyle Larson) and the No. 43 (Erik Jones) kind of went to the apron. By the time we got slowed up, they were coming back across the track and I was there first. It’s a bummer. Hate to end the day, but it is what it is.”

Start / Finish: 8 / 38
Points Standing / Total: 29th / 9 pts. (-43)

Next Race: Sunday, February 26, Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, Calif.
How to Watch or Listen: FOX, MRN, SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Hendrick Motorsports: @TeamHendrick
No. 9 Team: @Hendrick9Team

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Christian Eckes kicked off the 2023 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) season in impactful fashion by scoring a third-place finish at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) on Friday night. The driver of the No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet Silverado RST claimed the NCTS point lead with the top-five result after capturing the first stage victory. Eckes’ 50-point performance marked the first top-five result at a superspeedway for MHR, his second-straight podium finish at DIS, and the second-consecutive superspeedway event in which he led the most laps (19).

Eckes took the green flag from fourth position after advancing to the second round of qualifying on Friday afternoon. His assertiveness was on full display from the drop of the green as Eckes wheeled the NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet Silverado to the lead on the second lap. Two cautions waved for precipitation in the opening stage before Eckes worked the draft in the outside lane to perfection and snagged the Stage 1 win on lap 20 to secure 10 points and one playoff point.

Crew chief Charles Denike brought Eckes to pit road for a fuel only stop under the stage caution. He restarted in 10th on lap 26 for an abbreviated run in the second stage. A multi-truck accident on lap 29 broke up Stage 2, but Eckes once again inserted himself in the fight for the top spot. He threaded the needled in the middle lane to collect six points in fifth position at the end of the stage on lap 40.

Denike armed Eckes with four tires under the second stage caution, and allowed him to restart in eighth position on lap 48. A caution on lap 58 set up the final round of pit stops under yellow. Eckes took two tires just beyond the edge of the fuel window, but topped off with gas on lap 64 prior to the ensuing restart. He made quick work to rejoin the top five on lap 66. Eckes was in the process of utilizing the outside lane to make a bid for the top spot when another caution for precipitation waved on lap 69.

He was scored in third at the moment of caution and was credited with the podium result as the race was declared official after 79 circuits. Eckes holds a five-point advantage in the NCTS championship standings heading to Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

“Definitely a lot of positives,” Eckes said of the season-opening event. “We had a really fast No. 19 NAPA Auto Care Chevrolet and that’s all we got to show for it. Third is great with some good stage points. Good to build on, but obviously we want to win. So, just a huge thanks to everyone at McAnally-Hilgemann Racing and we’ll go to Vegas and try to win there.”

Start / Finish: 4 / 3
Points Standing / Total: 1st / 2,016 pts.

Next Race: Friday, March 3, Las Vegas Motor Speedway
How to Watch or Listen: FS1, MRN, SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Christian Eckes: @christianeckes
Bill McAnally Racing: @BMR_NASCAR

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Chase Elliott’s superspeedway debut in NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) competition culminated in a 10th-place finish at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) on Friday night. Elliott wheeled the No. 35 Gates Hydraulics Chevrolet Silverado RST inside the top 10 for a significant portion of the weather-shortened event en route to his 15th top-10 in 18 NCTS starts. The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion helped McAnally-Hilgemann Racing place both entries in the top 10 for the second time in the organization’s history.

Elliott took the green flag from 14th position and immediately moved into the top 10 on the opening lap. The five-time Most Popular Driver methodically worked the outside lane to push his way towards the front and inside the top five by lap 14. He found himself in 10th on lap 16 and in the middle of the intensifying chaos as the opening stage wound down. The Cup Series champ employed his veteran knowledge to preserve his Gates Hydraulics Silverado for the latter stages as Stage 1 closed on lap 20.

Crew chief Mark Hillman brought Elliott to pit road under the caution for four tires, fuel, and chassis adjustments. Elliott restarted 24th on lap 25 and managed to safely navigate two multi-truck wrecks during the stage on laps 29 and 40.

The Gates Hydraulics team brought Elliott back to pit road under the Stage 2 caution for another set of four tires and fuel. He restarted 11th on lap 48 and immediately placed himself in contention, breaking into the top five on lap 50. Elliott found his MHR teammate, Christian Eckes in the NAPA Auto Care Silverado, to draft in the outside lane, helping Elliott to stay towards the front. He was scored 10th on lap 58 when the final natural caution of the evening flew. Elliott pitted for the final time under the yellow for two right side tires and restarted sixth for the evening’s final restart on lap 65. A thick mist settled over DIS four laps later, forcing a yellow flag and ultimately ending the event with Elliott holding the 10th position after completing 79 laps.

“I appreciate these guys at MHR and Bill McAnally having me drive their Silverado,” Elliott said. “We were able to make the outside lane work to start the final stage, but we just needed some more green flag laps to get the track position we needed with our Gates Hydraulics Chevrolet to have a shot at it.”

Start / Finish: 14 / 10

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Bill McAnally Racing: @BMR_NASCAR

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A sunroof is a wonderful feature to have in a vehicle. You get the open air feeling of a convertible with the weather protection of a hard top. But what happens when that sunroof begins to let the weather inside? Wet seats and soaked carpet are the results. Unfortunately a leaky sunroof is an all too common problem, but the solution is sometimes quite simple. Here’s how to identify and fix a leaky sunroof.

Identifying a Sunroof Leak

Obviously if you are sitting in your car when it rains and water starts pouring from the area around the sunroof, you have a leak. But sometimes the leaks aren’t so obvious. You may notice water on the floorboard or wet carpet. A sunroof leak can let water flow through interior panels like the headliner and pillar panels where it is unseen. If you’ve ruled out a clogged AC drain or leaky door seals, you may have a sunroof leak on your hands.

Sunroof Leak Causes

You can track down most sunroof leaks to these common issues:

Clogged Sunroof Drain

One of the most common causes of a car sunroof leaking is simply a clogged drain. For many vehicles the area around the sunroof opening has a raised edge to catch any water that may get past the main sunroof seal. It is basically a drain pan with a sunroof sized hole in the middle. Water is supposed to flow from the catch pan into drain hoses (usually in the corners of the sunroof opening), which are routed through the body of the car and to the ground. As time passes, debris like leaves and dirt can find their way into the drain openings and clog the drain tubes. Once the drain tubes are clogged, the area around the sunroof will fill with water and spill over into the interior.

Damaged Sunroof Seal

The first line of defense against water is the seal around the sunroof panel itself. While most seals are not designed to completely stop water from getting into the area around the sunroof opening, the seal does hold back a fair amount of water from entering. Sun and heat can eventually damage the seal causing it to dry out, crack, deform or wear down at any areas that contact the body. When this seal is seriously compromised, too much water can get in and overwhelm the sunroof drains.

Damaged Mechanism

Your sunroof mechanism is a complex component that must both slide and lift/lower your sunroof panel in and out of position. It relies on motors and relays working in perfect harmony. The sunroof track itself is also precisely designed for smooth movement and solid placement of the sunroof panel. If any of these parts are damaged, worn or misaligned, the sunroof panel will not move to the desired position. Often a sunroof motor will break and leave the sunroof open, making for a frantic manual override to keep out the weather. But the sunroof may also appear to function properly while not moving to the correct closed position. If this happens, there is possibly a gap between the sunroof seal. The sunroof panel may also not close flush with the roof causing a channel for water to travel.

How to Fix a Leaking Sunroof

Once you have investigated your sunroof leak and found the culprit, it is time to learn how to fix a leaky sunroof.

Cleaning the sunroof drains is the simplest car sunroof leak repair. Locate the sunroof drains. There is a potential of up to four drains depending on the vehicle with some not easily visible. Referencing a vehicle repair manual can help you find all the drain locations. It is tempting to grab a compressed air hose and blow out the drain tubes, but that is a mistake. Blowing compressed air into a clogged tube can cause the tube to pop off an internal connection leading to a time-consuming interior panel disassembly. The simplest method for clearing a sunroof drain is with a piece of string trimmer line. String trimmer line is stiff enough to push through a blockage while also following the drain tube twists and turns. Now you can move onto your leaking sunroof repair:

1. Dip the tip of the trimmer line in dish soap to help it slide along the drain tube.
2. Feed the trimmer line into the drain tube opening feeling for any resistance. When resistance is felt, push gently on the trimmer line, then pull back gently.
3. Move the trimmer line in and out of the tube until the clog is no longer felt.
4. Remove the trimmer line and pour a small amount of water down the drain tube. The water should exit underneath the vehicle. If the water does not flow out, repeat the trimmer line technique until all clogs are removed.

If the drain tubes are clear, turn your attention to the sunroof itself and the mechanism. Clean the sunroof seal with a soft cloth and apply silicone lubricant spray to help it stay flexible. Observe how the sunroof moves while it opens and closes, noting any places where it stutters or does not move smoothly. If the movement is not smooth give the sunroof panel tracks a spray with the same silicone lubricant spray. If the sunroof does not close flush with the roof panel, it may need an adjustment.

If there is no time for proper repairs, a temporary fix for leaking sunroof problems is to simply seal it shut. Good quality 2” wide paint masking tape works just fine. Masking tape will hold through a rainstorm while you make plans for an adequate car sunroof leak repair. Masking tape also releases easily and reduces the chance of harming your vehicle’s finish. Once the sunroof is taped shut, you can place a piece of masking tape over the sunroof button to remind yourself not to use it.

Sunroof Leak Repair Costs

So how much does it cost to fix a leaking sunroof? If you are a DIYer with a stocked garage, the cost of repair is possibly only your time for something simple like a clogged drain. But if the issue is more serious, the sunroof leak repair cost could reach into the hundreds or even thousands. Modern vehicles with panoramic sunroof panels are wonderful for feeling the sun on the road, but these are very complex mechanisms. A leak in one of these mammoth panels could take hours for a technician to repair.

You may wonder if car insurance covers leaking sunroof issues, and the answer is “maybe” depending on your insurance coverage. Read your insurance policy carefully, consult with your insurance agent and weigh the cost of your deductible. In some cases, damage caused by a sunroof leak is covered by insurance, but the likelihood is small.

Check out all the sunroof products available on NAPAonline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to fix a leaky sunroof or figuring out how much does it cost to fix a leaking sunroof, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store.

Photo courtesy of Pexels.

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• Chase Elliott was 14th fastest in Wednesday night’s DAYTONA 500 qualifying, putting him in the second Duel at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday evening.
• The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion started the second Duel from the seventh position and battled inside the top 10 for a majority of the race, ultimately crossing the line in third with his No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
• With the third-place result, Elliott will line up eighth for Sunday’s 65th running of the DAYTONA 500.

After laying down the 14th fastest lap in Wednesday night’s DAYTONA 500 qualifying, Chase Elliott started seventh in the second Duel on Thursday evening at Daytona International Speedway. From the drop of the green flag, the Dawsonville, Georgia, native maintained his top-10 running position and was in seventh when the first caution of the night came out on lap seven for debris on the backstretch. Under the yellow flag, Elliott reported that he liked the way his No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 drove. After a fuel-only pit stop by the No. 9 crew, the 27-year-old driver lined up seventh for the restart on lap 10.

As a long green-flag run ensued, the field began to run single-file. Elliott was running in the sixth position until he made a move to the outside with 21 laps to go. Just two laps later the caution flag waved for a multi-car incident on the backstretch. The 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion narrowly escaped the melee and was scored in the 10th position. The team made another fuel-only pit stop and then decided to bring the NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet back in for four fresh tires. Elliott restarted just outside the top 10 with 14 laps remaining and maneuvered his way to ninth within two laps. He continued to improve his position from there, making moves on the final lap to score a third-place finish.

With the third-place result, Elliott will start eighth in Sunday’s 65th running of the DAYTONA 500.

“I had a pretty good run going. Austin (Hill) blocked that and then that kind of stalled the top,” Elliott said. “Then from there, we got really lucky because whoever got loose made a great save up there because I thought we were all wrecked. It was good to get back to third there and get a good start for Sunday. We will try and make our No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevy drive a little better; keep the same pace and I think we’ll be alright.”

Start / Finish: 7/ 3

Next Race: Sunday, February 19, Daytona International Speedway
How to Watch or Listen: 2:00 p.m. ET on FOX, MRN and SiriusXM

NAPA: @NAPARacing
Chase Elliott: @ChaseElliott
Hendrick Motorsports: @TeamHendrick
No. 9 Team: @Hendrick9Team

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Kid-Proof Your Car with NAPA

Family vacations. Carpooling to school. Loading up the team after a tournament. Balancing a packed weekday schedule full of appointments, practices and club meetings. There is seemingly never a free day or even a spare minute to clean up from and compartmentalize the chaos of carting around those adorable kids and their friends. But it is critical for your family’s health and safety on the road to kid-proof your car with NAPA.

While national driving statistics show that parents are more likely to complain that their car is a mess, vehicle owners with kids are also more likely to clear out the clutter in their vehicles every week. However, too many drivers in the U.S. admit to going three months or more between an actual interior cleaning. Although most vehicle owners report that the floor is the dirtiest area, drivers with kids consistently say the backseat is the messiest spot of their sedan, SUV or minivan. Cup holders, the dashboard and trunk round out the Top Five Dirtiest Parts of a Car.

How is Your Car Interior Getting So Filthy?

Food crumbs, empty bottles and fast-food wrappers are the top three issues making commuter cars so filthy in America. National driving statics also reveal that a family with kids is more likely to eat in their car, than owners without children. Food garbage and packaging can create a health hazard. A vehicle left out in the sun, especially during the summer, is a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria. And, occupied drink holders cause parents to break one of the worst safety rules: driving while ‘holding’ a drink between their legs.

At the NAPA Network, we get it. The typical schedule of a parent is so full that the family car is filled with every item that is needed for activities throughout the day. But sports equipment and toys of every size are lethal when flying through the air because of sudden braking or a rear-end crash. Loose objects on the dashboard or center console, such as earbuds, loose change, sunglasses and smartphones, are distracting as they slide around when the driver turns a corner. Soda cans, sports drinks and water bottles (not to mention tennis balls and school supplies) rolling around on the floor can also lodge under your gas pedal or brake pedal.

Car Organizers for Kids & You Too

Distracted driving causes accidents! According to a study released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 80% of automotive accidents and 65% of near-accidents involve some form of driver distraction within three seconds of the crash or near-miss. For those little things that all too often roll around before getting lost in cracks and crevices, the NAPA experts recommend the Car Seat Gap Organizer. This slender space is perfect for smartphones, chargers, house keys, permission slips, plastic utensils, pencils, hair ties, baby socks or any other small ‘give me that before you lose it’ item. 

For those more bulky items that you still need to have within reach, go for the Carhartt Seatback Organizer, which doubles as a backseat protector from kicking legs and backpack scuffs. Easily contain and organize water bottles, snack packs, computer tablets, library books and action figurines. This machine-washable interior accessory is available in three patterns—gravel, brown and mossy oak camouflage.

If you are desperate for more cabin storage, especially in a small truck cab or two-door sports car, check out the Dee Zee Under Seat Storage Drawer. This storage accessory fits under a front seat or back bench to contain emergency supplies, hand tools or valuable items you need to keep locked away. This steel lock box is about as kid proof as any aftermarket part can find.

Protective Car Seat Covers & Floor Liners

A cluttered car can seem like a temporary problem until the mess turns into something more permanent. Without the proper protective gear, today’s spills can cost you when trying to sell your vehicle in the future. The NAPA Network has you covered when it comes to interior accessories, including floor liners customized for your exact make and model. Shop NAPAOnline.com now for trusted, long-lasting brands, including WeatherTech, Husky Liners and Fanmats. 

Don’t forget to upgrade your trunk or cargo space. A durable cargo liner or trunk mat prevents permanent damage to your upholstery while also making clean-up jobs much quicker and easier. For parents of infants and toddlers, the Child Car Seat Protector is a must! Constructed with WeatherTech’s thermoplastic, this sturdy base sits underneath the baby carrier or booster seat to prevent wear and tear on your original material.

From muddy uniforms to sticky hands, kids love to share everything they have contacted throughout the day. Don’t stress over the mess; add a layer of protection to ensure your original upholstery remains spotless. Designed with durability in mind, NAPA seat covers protect your bucket seats and bench seats from snags, rips and stains with a range of materials from neoprene to leatherette. 

Each custom-made seat liner is designed to the specifications of your prized pickup truck, deluxe SUV, sporty sedan or reliable minivan. These removable covers follow every curve and contour of your existing seat, including any functionality of seatbelts and airbags. Don’t forget to add a Seat Cover Installation Kit to your online order today.

Interior Car Cleaning Essentials

Finally, don’t leave home without a solution! NAPAonline is fully stocked with all the interior detailing products you could ever need, including mildew remedies, odor treatments, carpet cleaners, vinyl repair kits and leather conditioners. Browse the large selection of Armor All protectant sprays and quick-clean wipes. Order your car cleaning and organizing supplies today and take advantage of our In-Store Pickup service or Free One-Day Shipping!

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