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A long time ago headlight bulb options were pretty straight forward. You had round or rectangular headlight bulbs in just a few sizes that were used by pretty much every automaker. Basically you just had to match the bulb to the hole in the grille and make sure it was high or low beam (or a combination of the two). But in the early 1980s the Lincoln Mark VII introduced the idea of a headlight assembly where the bulb could be replaced like a flashlight, while the lens and housing stayed on the car. While this made service simpler, it didn’t exactly make finding the correct type of headlight bulb at the parts store easier. Let’s take a look at the different types of headlight bulbs available and where you might find them. Sealed Beam Headlight Bulbs We’ll start with the classic sealed beam bulb. These bulbs are large and usually round or rectangular. The lens, reflector, and filament are one non-serviceable assembly. The lens is usually glass. Most passenger vehicles moved away from sealed beam bulbs in the 1990s, but there are plenty of vehicles still on the road that use them. In particular the fleet vehicle industry stuck with sealed beam bulbs thanks to cheap replacement costs and ease of service. Today unless you have a vintage car or work truck you probably won’t be buying a sealed beam headlight bulb. But if you do happen to have one of these vehicles and want to move into the modern age there are actually LED headlight bulb versions of sealed beam assemblies on the market. Just remove your old halogen bulb and update your headlights to the 21st century. Halogen Headlight Bulbs By far the most common type of headlight bulb is the halogen bulb. If you are wondering “what headlight bulb do i need” the likely answer is a halogen bulb. These bulbs give off a nice bright long lasting light thanks to the presence of one of the halogen family of gasses sealed inside. Their design makes for a much hotter bulb though, so the headlamp assembly has to be designed to handle the high heat output. Here’s a few common sizes and common vehicles where you might find them: H11 headlight bulb – 2007-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, 2005-2017 Ford Mustang, 2006-2021 Honda Civic 9003 headlight bulb – 2007-2020 Honda Fit, Harley Davidson motorcycles, Kawasaki motorcycles 9005 headlight bulb – 1987-2005 Buick LeSabre, 2001-2016 Toyota Corolla 9006 headlight bulb – 1995-2007 Toyota Avalon, 2000-2014 Subaru Impreza 9007 headlight bulb – 1996-2003 Dodge Grand Caravan, 1996-2006 Chrysler Sebring 9012 headlight bulb – 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt, 2004-2007 Nissan Maxima Some halogen bulbs work as fog light bulbs as well, so one bulb can be used for a myriad of applications. High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlight Bulbs You probably heard about HID headlights years ago when talking about luxury cars. While these ultra bright bulbs were once the realm of the high end market, now you can find all kinds of normal vehicles with the option for HID headlights. These lights don’t use a filament like a normal bulb, but use extremely high voltage to strike an electrical arc inside a sealed glass bulb. A separate ballast is used to get the lighting arc started, so this system is slightly more complicated. If your vehicle is equipped with higher end options then HID lighting is likely among those features. If your HID lights stop working, make sure to check the ballast as well. Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Headlight Bulbs If you have a newer vehicle with LED headlights then you likely won’t need a new LED bulb for quite some time. LED lights have long service lives and are very energy efficient. For automotive use on modern vehicles the LED light itself is likely part of the headlamp assembly and not meant to be replaced by itself. So if you have factory LED headlights and are asking “what kind of headlight bulb do i need” the answer is the entire headlamp assembly. If you have an older vehicle there are LED retrofit options that simply plug in to the existing wiring and bulb mount. These let you use LED headlight bulbs in a vehicle that was not originally equipped with them. Figuring out what is the best type of headlight bulb really comes down to vehicle application. Typically it is best to choose the same type of bulb the the design engineers specified for the vehicle. While it is possible to upgrade headlights, remember that the NHTSA has strict guidelines that control not just the light type but also how it is projected. Just dropping a brighter bulb in a headlamp assembly can seriously impair the vision of oncoming drivers due to a mismatch in bulb and reflector. Check out all the headlight products available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on answering “what headlight bulbs do i need” all the way to picking the best LED headlight bulbs, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. The post What Headlight Bulb Do I Need For My Car? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Save Your Spring This Winter! For centuries, the wintertime meant people stayed mostly indoors, keeping cozy and warm, from October until April. These days, the coldest months of the year are usually the most active, and it seems there’s no end to all the decorating, celebrating and snow-worshipping! From that giant Halloween skeleton to the turkey fryer, holiday lights and snowboards, our wintertime gear and holiday decor often ends up disorganized in that catch-all place: the garage. Worst of all, that jumbled mess means spending the first warm, sunny days of spring cleaning and organizing your garage. This year, don’t get overwhelmed by letting a cluttered garage spoil your season. NAPA Auto Parts is here to help you find the perfect storage and organization solutions for your winter gear and decor. Let us show you how to keep your garage tidy, so you can skip the storage stress and save your spring. A Place For Every Fun And Festive Thing So, the holidays are over and you got some great gear. A brand new set of skis and poles, a shiny new sled and even some snow chains for your tires — so you can drive over those snowy mountain passes safely! But where is it all going to go? If the best answer is the garage, know that NAPA Auto Parts can help you get organized, so your garage stays tidy and your gear remains damage-free. Consider a Ski and Snowboard Storage System that mounts to your wall and keeps your valuable equipment from sliding into a corner or collecting moisture on the floor. Best of all, you can conveniently hang your snow-covered boots upside down so they dry faster and stay mildew-free. While you’re at it, mount a second Storage Kit and keep your rakes, shovels and yard tools organized and easily accessible. For a more compact wall storage solution, consider a reliable set of Heavy-Duty Wall Straps for holding looped holiday lights, tire chains and extension cords. When space gets tight on the floor and wall, there’s nowhere to go but up. Garage Hoists feature convenient pulley systems that mount to your garage ceiling. This is a great option for storing winter gear like sleds, skis and snowboards or summer toys like kayaks, bikes and canoes. It also works for ladders, ramps and other home and yard equipment. You can even wrap and store oversized yard decor and artificial trees, so they stay off the floor and free of moisture. Every Fun and Festive Thing In It’s Place Decorating was a nightmare last year! You went into the garage to unpack the inflatable reindeer and found that, over the summer, they’d met a moldy end in the corner. Then, you had to rush out and buy new strands of lights because the ones you had were piled in a tangled mess. And let’s just hope Nana never finds out that you stored one of her priceless glass ornaments in a damp cardboard box and it got crushed. This year is all about keeping the garage organized and your decor stored properly. Keep wreaths, garlands and seasonal dishes secure and dry in a Nesting Storage Container. The metal latches keep the lid firmly closed and the nesting design means everything fits together when not in use, saving valuable storage space. Ornaments and smaller, more delicate items can be wrapped and stored in the super-adaptable Milwaukee Packout System. These interlocking storage boxes are durable and customizable, so you can configure your Milwaukee Packout system however you want. Best of all, your Milwaukee Packout system can be stacked on a Dollyfor easy transport. Finally, there’s no need to store your containers and Milwaukee Packout on the floor. Keep everything elevated, organized and easy to find using a Shelving System. These shelving solutions from Iron Horse include five durable particle board shelves, and the boltless design allows you to quickly and easily assemble and disassemble them. The riveted steel construction ensures they can hold a total of 3,800 evenly distributed pounds. Now, you can shop all our great storage solutions as well as our thousands of parts and accessories and get rewarded with NAPA Rewards! After you sign up, you’ll receive One Point for every $1 you spend, and when you accumulate 100 Points, you’ll automatically receive $5 off your next purchase. ‘Tis the season for getting organized, and gifting great garage storage solutions from NAPA Auto Parts! Photo courtesy of Unsplash. The post Garage Storage For Winter appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Let There Be Light It’s a simple truth that humans have known since the dawn of time: everything is easier to do when you can shine a little light on it! This is especially true in a garage, workshop or work site. Even in the brightest automotive garage, the dimly lit conditions of a Lexus RX350 or a Honda Accord engine bay, coupled with the complex arrangement of the engine components, can present a big problem for a mechanic looking to identify a problem and undertake repairs. In the past, finding a dependable work light that performs in an auto shop setting was challenging. Most mechanic work lights used wall sockets, so your range of use was limited by the length of the cord. The brightest work lights usually use incandescent bulbs that could get very hot—a recipe for disaster when working with hazardous fumes and flammable liquids. Not only that, but incandescent lights usually require safety cages, which make them too bulky to fit into the dark recesses of an engine. The best auto mechanics are never without a trusty pen light tucked in their coveralls; however, they tend to have a limited number of lumens plus use small watch batteries, making them very inconvenient. Thanks to the advancement of LED (Light Emitting Diode) light technology, automotive work lights are now far safer, more efficient, smaller and brighter. The best work lights for mechanics should be: Rechargeable – you should get at least two hours of bright light; 170 lumens or higher is ideal Rugged – the housing should feature strong, weathertight thermoplastic polymer construction such as ABS to withstand use in a garage or work environment Reliable – you should not have to worry that your work light will shatter or overheat A bonus in modern mechanic work lights is their easy mounting capability. There’s no need to drill any holes or glue anything—as most work lights feature magnetized bottoms and durable hooks—so that you can mount them to the hood of your vehicle or the side of the engine bay, as well as hang them from the latch mechanism. These magnets are safe to use around metal tools and sensitive electronics. Illuminate the Job with NAPA and Carlyle Tools Whether you’re wrenching on the exhaust system of a lifted Ford F150, keeping your home renovation site lit or setting up a tent after sunset, a work light solution from Carlyle Tools is the best way to illuminate the job at hand. Named after one of NAPA’s founding members Carlyle Fraser, the brand is synonymous with hard-working reliability and quality craftsmanship. The NAPA Network is proud to offer this professional-grade line of lighting solutions so you can get a safe, reliable illumination to get your work done right. A rechargeable, slim work light from Carlyle is a must-have for close-quarter repairs in an engine bay. You get a full two hours of illumination if used on the high setting and up to five full hours on the low setting. The slim work light is small enough to maneuver into tight spaces and offers a brilliant 500 lumens, while the convenient magnetic base and hook offer cord-free mounting and hanging. Lose those smoky, unsafe incandescent cage lights on the job site and replace them with this super-brilliant rechargeable 1000-lumen work light, which offers up to two hours of illumination on the high setting and five hours of luminescence on the low setting. The plastic/aluminum construction provides durability without added weight. For a smaller option that features both flood and spotlight functionality, the smaller work light features 260 powerful lumens with up to nine hours of continual brightness on a single charge. The safe and comfortable rechargeable headlamp offers the perfect hands-free light that shines right where you need it. The old-school auto mechanics will appreciate that Carlyle also offers a rechargeable pen light—small and reliable with no need for a watch battery. Best of all, Carlyle also offers a cutting-edge charging pad system that wirelessly charges a wide range of their lighting solutions—such as the mechanic flashlight—for fast and easy wireless charging. You’ll never get left in the dark again when you have the brilliant and reliable illumination of NAPA and Carlyle Tools lighting solutions at your side! Sign up for NAPA Rewards today and get 1-point for every $1 you spend. Once you earn 100 points, you get $5 off your next NAPA purchase. The post Must-Have Mechanic Work Light Solutions appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

In some ways electric vehicles are just like any other vehicle on the road. Wheels are powered to move passengers from one place to another along a roadway. It’s the same basic principle that carried us past the days of the horse and buggy. In fact many of the early horseless carriages were actually electric powered. But modern electric vehicles deal in much higher voltages and amperages than anything on the road in the past few decades. Anyone who already works on internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles probably has a decent set of tools, but when it comes to servicing hybrid and electric vehicles (EV) there are a few more things to consider. Let’s take a look at EV tools versus ICE tools and learn what you might need for your EV tool kit. Hand Tools Starting with hand tools the functions are pretty much the same. A screwdriver still has a handle and a tip, wrenches still have jaws, sockets still have six or twelve points. The big difference comes down to stopping the flow of electricity either through the tool or to the user. You’ve probably seen insulated tools before, likely a screwdriver in a set. These are pretty common for household electrical work. But did you know there are insulated tools and then there are non-conductive (composite) tools? An insulated tool is typically made of metal (like a normal tool) which is then covered with a non-conductive substance like epoxy or rubber. This interrupts the flow of electricity from the tool to the user’s hand. But insulated tools need to be checked regularly to verify if the insulating coating is still intact. Some tools use different colored insulation layers to signal if a tool is ready for replacement. If the warning layer is visible, the tool is no longer safe to use. The last point is one that normally isn’t a part of hand tool ownership. Hand tools either work or they are broken. Insulated electric tools may still technically work as say a wrench, but they will not be safe to use around electrical components once the insulation has been compromised. Composite tools are actually made differently than normal tools. For example a composite ratchet will have a handle made completely of a strong non-conductive material with no metal inside. This prevents electricity from traveling from the head of the ratchet to the user’s hand. Composite sockets will still have a metal hex insert, but that metal is attached to a strong non-conductive composite, and then to the square drive. The non-conductive material breaks the circuit and blocks the flow of electricity. Diagnostic Tools Working on any modern vehicle requires the right diagnostic equipment regardless of the power source. While a technician working on an electric vehicle won’t be diagnosing ignition or emissions problems, they will be chasing down other normal issues like bad sensors or damaged modules. But one difference in EV tools vs. ICE tools is the power handling capability of the electric vehicle diagnostic tool. For example any multimeter intended to be used on an electric vehicle must be rated CAT III to handle the high voltages often found inside these vehicles. Likewise the test leads need to be also rated for higher voltage use. While internal combustion engines are starting to use 48-volt systems in areas, some electric vehicles operate in the hundreds of volts so special EV diagnostic tools are a must. Shop Tools Your shop may already be well equipped to work on common internal combustion vehicles, but there are some special electric vehicle repair tools you may need to consider. For example, your two-post lift likely needs different footpads to correctly lift electric vehicles. You also need to make sure your lift can be configured to handle different vehicle weight biases (front to rear) for balanced lifting. Speaking of lifting, many electric vehicle and hybrid batteries weigh a considerable amount and are mounted to the bottom of the vehicle. Safely removing one of these batteries should be left up to a specialized lifting table designed for the task. Most people are not aware that air conditioning compressors used in hybrid and electric vehicles have a special type of oil that is designed to be non-conductive. That means you will need an air conditioning service machine that can prevent cross-contamination between systems. Considering that the air conditioning compressor on a hybrid or electric vehicle is powered by a high-power electric motor rather than an engine pulley, the different oil requirement makes sense. Safety Equipment It’s a good idea to wear gloves when working on any vehicle, but when working on an electric or hybrid vehicle it is mandatory. Specifically insulated safety gloves designed to handle high voltage. Gloves must also be tested before each use for any tears/cuts/leaks/wear that might allow a path for electricity to travel. A good pair of ASTM F 2413-11 safety boots with EH (electrical hazard) rating is also recommended. It is also important to let others know when a technician is working on a hybrid or electric vehicle. Placing orange cones around the bay and a line of caution tape signals to others that the vehicle is not to be approached. The safety gear worn by the technician is only designed to protect one person, all others must keep their distance during servicing of electric vehicle components. Any shop that is considering working on electric or hybrid vehicles needs an insulated rescue hook. In the unfortunate event of a technician suffering an accident while working on an electrical component the insulated rescue hook allows the victim to be pulled away from the electrical source without endangering the rescuer. This also means that a technician should never work on a hybrid or electric vehicle alone, there should always be another person present in the shop. Lastly anyone attempting to service an electric or hybrid vehicle should be properly trained. Old fashioned “on the job” training may be fine for most maintenance procedures on a normal car, the same cannot be said for electric or hybrid vehicles. The potential power output of an EV battery is just too high to risk working on a vehicle without at least basic training. Luckily NAPA Autotech can help anyone acquire the right training they need to become a successful technician capable of handling electric and hybrid vehicles. The post EV Tools vs. ICE Tools – What You Need To Know appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Not every vehicle matches the concept its designers and engineers intended. What might have been a stellar idea on paper may have gone wrong in production. Sometimes the court of public opinion is more accurate, and the public has shown these cars to be real turkeys or duds. Our list of worst cars includes the familiar, the forgotten and the unloved. However, time can be a redeemer, as even some of the awful ones are now collectors. DMC DeLorean With its space-age design, brushed stainless-steel outer body panels and gull-wing doors, the DMC DeLorean promised to live up to its early 1980s hype. What should have been a strong competitor to the Porsche 911 and Chevrolet Corvette turned out to be an absolute dud. Poor build quality, a sticking throttle, suspension issues and a wonky speedometer led to a tremendous slowdown in the manufacturing process. They only produced three model years before the company shuttered. The main reason why anyone remembers the DeLorean is its significant role in the “Back to the Future” movie franchise. Today, the DeLorean is a collectible, largely due to its Hollywood exposure. Ford Taurus When it was released in 1986, the Ford Taurus revolutionized the midsize sedan market with its front-wheel-drive layout and sharply improved quality standards. Through its second generation, the Taurus remained one of the industry’s top sellers. But in 1996, this all went downhill. The oval design, along with the circular headlights, rounded body panels and oval rear window, were too much of a contrast to the previous generation, causing the Taurus to lose its best-seller status to the Toyota Camry. As a result, Ford hurried its next makeover, bringing out a new and much less controversial design just four years later. Pontiac Aztek What were they thinking? The 2001-2005 Pontiac Aztek is one vehicle that simply shocks. On the one hand, it is one of the worst looking cars ever, with a weird front fascia, strange lighting elements, odd rear side windows and a tricky tailgate. On the other hand, the 3.4-liter pushrod V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission was a sluggard. Somehow, Pontiac built this turkey car for five years before dropping the model. After another five years, the brand itself was canceled. Oddly thanks to the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” there has been a resurgence in collecting surviving Azteks in good condition. Subaru B9 Tribeca It was supposed to be a ground-breaking vehicle for Subaru, its first model with an available third row. Instead, the Subaru B9 Tribeca was heavily criticized for its triangle grille and rounded body panels. The two-part name was off-putting, with some calling it the “benign Tribeca” due to its polarizing design. Two years after its 2006 release, Subaru refreshed the vehicle and dropped the B9 appellation. The Tribeca continued for seven more years before succumbing to slow sales. Nissan Juke Credit Nissan with pushing the styling envelope in recent years with several models, including the boxy Cube, the Murano CrossCabriolet drop-top SUV and the Juke. Not since Ford built the Edsel Corsair has so much ugliness been released by one manufacturer. The 2011-2017 Nissan Juke was known for its design drama, including bulges, swells and sharp angles. It’s as if the designers married a rally racer with a utility vehicle and added provocative lighting elements to give it an insectoid appearance. Inside, motorcycle-inspired gauges, funky colors and striking cloth seating fabric were not welcome highlights. Notably, the Juke was a hoot to drive, with an available 6-speed manual gearbox. Thus, its “worst car” designation is truly in the eye of the beholder. Worst Cars Whether you own a classic or a turkey car, you should protect it against the outside elements with a car cover. Preserve your car from the harsh winter weather or just cover it up to shield it from glares. Check out all the car cover products available on NAPAOnline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. To learn more about your favorite car brands, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. The post 5 Worst Cars That Were Real Turkeys appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Losing traction in the snow is no one’s idea of a good time. Even in areas not known for abysmal snowstorms, winter can create icy and hazardous road conditions that drivers must be prepared to deal with. Luckily the solution of adding snow chains for tires used on vehicles that need to brave the wintery roads. Adding tire chains for cars can be a workable solution to get you where you need to go when the roads are not your friend — but they can also be a pain. Knowing when you should be putting chains on tires can help you get out of a slippery situation, but you have to know what you’re doing first. Here’s how to tell if it is time to use snow tire chains on your vehicle. Technically Speaking While tire chains are legal in all 50 states different laws regulate chain usage in different states. Even Hawaii has a law on the books for tire chains (only if you are driving on on Mauna Kea though). Before you invest in a shiny new pair, make sure you know whether chains are allowed, permitted or even required in some cases. Generally, a chain “requirement” means you must have them in your vehicle if you want to pass certain checkpoints that pop up in inclement weather. Some go as far as requiring tire chains to be installed when road conditions reach a certain point with fines and penalties for non-compliance. Places where chains are permitted usually come with some disclaimer that restrict their usage, so make sure you know the law and follow it. There may even be different tire chains laws for passenger vehicles versus commercial trucks. Most tire chain laws are meant to help protect the roadway surface from damage caused by using chains without enough snow coverage. Leaving snow chains on tires when the conditions don’t warrant it can also damage your tires. The other important factor to consider is whether your vehicle is suitable for chains. You can find chains for most tire sizes, but there must be enough clearance for them to fit on without causing damage to the body, undercarriage or brakes. Make sure to check clearance around the front tires with the steering wheel turned fully to each side to make sure nothing rubs. If clearance is tight you may want to consider snow cables, which sometimes have a lower profile. Consult your owner’s manual for tire chain specifications and allowances. Be Prepared Because chains are something you will likely need to take on and off at least once per trip, and because the conditions surrounding their use are usually cold, soggy and snowy, it’s best to practice installation first, ideally when the weather is still nice. Without driving the car anywhere, put on your car snow chains and take them off a couple of times to get the hang of it so that when you do eventually need them, you aren’t stuck fumbling and trying to figure out how to get them on with freezing fingers. Also, if you’re carrying car tire chains, pack a safety vest as well. There’s a good chance you’ll have to pull onto the side of the road at some point to adjust or remove them, and if it’s snowing, visibility will be low. Using Chains For Tires Under The Right Conditions Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that’s clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains. It always pays to be careful when driving in freezing conditions, but chains require a whole new level of attention and care. Snow chains for car, truck and SUV applications all work the same way to increase grip but there are limitations. When on, the car should not be driven above 30 miles per hour and you have to be mindful of curbs when parking. On two-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be attached to wheels on the drive axle, but ideally you get them on all four. If installed only in the front there will be a tendency to oversteer and a tendency to understeer if they’re only in the back. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains installed on all tires. Once the tire chains are installed drive a block or two and tighten them again. Some vehicles with selectable driving modes may need to be in the appropriate mode when using snow chains, so check your owner’s manual just in case. Once you get to an area of clear roadway, take off the chains. The aggressive traction that make tire chains so effective can also cause increased tire wear, so only keep them on when you need them. Though they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a real difference in winter weather when you need to get somewhere without mother nature’s permission, but only if they’re being used safely and effectively. Otherwise, you’ll just be spinning your wheels. Once you are done using your snow chains inspect them for any breaks, corrosion, or physical damage before putting them away. Give them a good spray with WD-40 so they will be ready for next season. Check out all the tire chains and tire cables available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on tire chains for cars, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Flickr The post Chains For Tires 101: When Should You Use Tire Chains for Cars? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

If you drive a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, you can think of the battery like your vehicle’s beating heart. The battery cables act like arteries running a current to the alternator, which powers electronic systems such as the ignition system, the ECM (Electronic Control Module) and the lighting system. Bad Battery Cable Symptoms Just like in other areas of your vehicle, the components of your battery system will wear out and fail over time. Symptoms of worn or frayed battery cables are like that of a dying battery: Dimming or flickering of interior lights or headlights Engine hesitation when starting Clicking noises If you notice a buildup of flaky white or blue crust around the top or sides of your battery, that’s corrosion. It’s a common problem caused by small amounts of escaping hydrogen gas or leaking electrolytes on the top of your battery or the battery cable terminals. Corrosion can develop on older batteries that were overcharged, undercharged or exposed to certain environmental factors. The NAPA Network can show you how to replace battery cables in your car, as well as replace your battery, your battery terminals, your battery posts and—depending on the extent of the damage—your battery tray and battery hold-down. If you determine your battery has good voltage by using a multi-meter and doesn’t need replacing, then it’s time to check your battery cables. Start at the cable terminals attached to the battery posts. Inspect both the positive and negative cables for fraying, knicks and splits. If you see anything that doesn’t look right, it’s time to replace the cables. Replacing Battery Cables Just like any good at-home automotive repair, you should start with all your tools ready to go, as well as safety equipment such as eye protection and gloves. Replacing battery cables is straightforward, and you’ll need the following: A Screwdriver A Socket Wrench A Wrench A Ratchet Step 1 – Using the screwdriver or socket wrench, gently disconnect the battery terminals from the battery posts—starting with the negative cable—then disconnect the positive to avoid shorting and potential danger. Trace the path of the negative cable to the chassis, then trace the positive cable to the fuse box. Make sure to take a picture or otherwise note the course so you can route the new cables correctly. Step 2 – Use the ratchet to loosen the negative ground nut, then remove the nut that holds the positive cable to the fuse block. Inspect these for corrosion and damage and replace them if the metal is soft or the threading is deteriorated. Inspect the terminal posts on top of the battery and use a battery terminal cleaner to remove any corrosion. Step 3 – Install the new cables starting with the negative. Reattach the negative ground nut to the chassis and the nut that holds the positive cable to the fuse block. Make sure the nuts are tight and snug. Step 4 – Route the cables the way you originally found them and connect the terminal ends to the clean battery posts starting with the positive cable, then the negative cable. Step 5 – Start your vehicle and ensure the electrical systems work properly. Removing corrosion, cleaning your battery terminals and replacing worn battery cables is a part of routine vehicle battery maintenance that most at-home mechanics can do. However, this job involves the electrical system of your vehicle, so if you don’t feel comfortable doing the replacement yourself or can’t find the time, we are here to help. Just find a friendly local NAPA AutoCare location near you, and one of our ASE-certified technicians will replace the battery cables in your vehicle for you. We can even help you with an Instant Repair Estimate to help you budget for your repairs and get you back on the road in no time! Photo courtesy of Pexels. The post How to Replace Battery Cables appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

It should come as no surprise that car batteries not only come in all shapes and sizes, but also in various electrical capacities. This makes sense because the wide variety of vehicle sizes and types in use make it unlikely that a single battery can serve every application. But does car battery size matter? And what if you are wondering what size battery for my car is best? Let’s take a look at why car batteries are different sizes and what car battery sizes you might find under the hood of most cars, trucks, SUVs and vans. Why Are Car Batteries Different Sizes? The very earliest cars used batteries of various sizes with no standards whatsoever. Battery manufacturers simply made batteries the way they wanted and car makers picked whatever fit. But then the Battery Council International (BCI) was formed and battery sizes started to fall in line with the standards set forth by the BCI. This helped simplify and standardize automotive engineering designs with common battery tray sizes as well as power output measurements. Common Car Battery Sizes Over the years car manufacturers figured out it was easier to just stick to a few common battery sizes to use across their production lines. The car battery size chart below lists out the dimensions of the most common car battery sizes: GROUP NO. NAPA PART NO. LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) HEIGHT (inches) 24 8424 10-3/4 6-3/4 9 24F 8424F 10-3/4 6-3/4 9 25 8425 9-3/4 6-7/8 8-7/8 27 8427 12 6-3/4 9 34 8434 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 34R 8434R 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 35 8435 9-9/16 6-7/8 8-7/8 41 (T65) 8441 11-9/16 6-7/8 6-7/8 42/58R 8442 10 7-1/4 6-7/8 47 (H5/L2) 8447 9-9/16 6-7/8 7-1/2 48 (H6/L3) 8448 11 6-7/8 7-1/2 49 (H8/L5) 8449 13-15/16 6-7/8 7-1/2 55 8456 8-3/4 6 8-1/2 58 8458 10 7-1/4 6-7/8 65 8465 12 7-3/8 7-5/8 75 8475 9-3/4 7 7-1/4 78 8478 10-3/4 6-7/8 7-1/4 86 8486 9 6-7/8 8-1/8 96R 8496R 9-9/16 6-7/8 6-7/8 99R (T4) 8499R 8-1/4 6-7/8 6-7/8 75/86 (DT) 8425/75 9-3/4 7 8-1/8 34/78 (DT) 8434/78 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 That may look like a long list of car battery sizes, but there are actually many more in use around the world. A more inclusive battery size chart for cars, trucks, SUVs and other vehicles can be found in the NAPA Batteries Application Guide here. Size Isn’t The Only Factor Looking at the above car battery sizes chart you may notice that some batteries are physically the same size, but that doesn’t mean they are interchangeable. The location of the positive and negative battery terminals, the battery case mounting provisions, and the type of battery terminal connections are all important factors. There are also differences in battery capacity. The cranking amp (CA) capacity and cold cranking amp (CCA) capacity are both important factors in matching a battery with a vehicle’s needs. The CA and CCA both refer to the amount of amps available to start the vehicle at a certain temperature. Then there is the reserve capacity (RC) of the battery which is how long a battery can deliver 25 amps of power until it is drained down to 10.5 volts. What Is The Right Battery Size For My Car? If you are trying to find the right battery size for your car then the answer is the size that your vehicle’s manufacturer designed it to use. Trying to shoehorn in a bigger battery may sound like a good idea, but if the battery mount can’t hold it securely then you may end up with a big headache. Likewise picking a smaller battery than specified could lead to electrical issues if it can’t handle the electrical load. It may also rattle around in the battery tray leading to a shorter battery life or even a dangerous short circuit. And even if the car battery group size chart says a battery physically fits, it may be the wrong capacity or voltage. Trust the engineers that designed the vehicle and only replace the battery with an exact size unit. You can change your car battery yourself if you have the proper tools, or let the experts at your local NAPA Autocare handle it for you. The post Car Battery Sizes – Does It Matter? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Some automotive issues make themselves known instantly and in a big way. But signs of a bad water pump aren’t always so brash. A bad water pump can wreak havoc on your engine and should not be taken lightly. But how does a water pump go bad? Here’s a few bad water pump symptoms that can help you deduce if repairs are in order. Leaking Coolant One of the most common symptoms of a bad water pump is a leak from the water pump itself. Many water pumps are constructed with a weep hole below the pump drive shaft. Normally this weep hole is dry as the pump drive shaft seals keep the coolant at bay and away from the water pump bearings. But if the seal fails coolant can then seep past harming the water pump bearings and dripping out of the weep hole. The driver may notice a sweet smell of coolant cooking off the hot engine or a small puddle of coolant under the vehicle when parked. If the coolant is dripping on the accessory drive belt system there may be damp areas under the hood. If your vehicle develops a coolant leak or you find yourself adding coolant to keep it filled, check the area around the water pump just in case. Overheating One of the common signs of bad water pump functionality is overheating. The pump may not leak coolant, but the pump mechanism itself may have failed. Over time the fins of the pump can actually wear down to the point where they are no longer moving coolant. Cavitation can eat away at the metal pump vanes and pump surfaces. Plastic water pump vanes can disintegrate over time as the plastic ages. This all adds up to coolant that is no longer moved through the engine block and into the radiator to be cooled, leading to overheating. Bad Noises Water pumps have bearings that have to stand up to not only engine heat but also tension from the drive pulley. If you start to hear a grinding noise or high pitch squealing from the front of the engine, the water pump may be trying to tell you something. Try and rule out squealing belts by double checking belt condition and belt tension. Once you are sure the belt isn’t the cause try to pinpoint the source of the bad water pump noise. Be careful to not place any body parts near that rotating accessory drive system or the engine cooling fan. Simply stand in front of the running engine with the hood open and observe for a few minutes. Oil Contamination How to tell if water pump is bad can sometimes depend on the design of the engine. Some water pumps are buried inside the engine which makes it difficult to observe any problems. For example Ford Duratec V6 engines have the water pump located behind the timing cover. A leak from the water pump will allow coolant to mix with oil around the timing chains but the leak will not be visible on the outside of the engine. Checking the engine oil regularly and looking for an increase in oil level (due to coolant collecting in the oil pan) or a milkshake-like oil appearance are signs of possible symptoms of a bad water pump. Unfortunately these can also be signs of a bad cylinder head gasket, so further investigation will be required. Any of these symptoms should be taken seriously and further investigation as to the source of the problem. If a bad water pump is diagnosed, it should be replaced immediately. Don’t risk ruining an engine by putting off a repair that is relatively minor. Check out all the heating & cooling systems parts available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to know tell if your water pump is bad, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post Bad Water Pump Symptoms appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

In a dramatic final round to close out the 2022 season, defending NHRA Funny Car world champion Ron Capps clinched his third series title, and the first for Ron Capps Motorsports, on Sunday at the NHRA Finals at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. Capps drove the NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota GR Supra to a runner-up finish to win his second consecutive championship crown, becoming the first Funny Car driver to win back-to-back championships in 20 years. Starting the weekend ranked second in the point standings behind Robert Hight, Capps overcame a 61-point deficit to lock up the 2022 NHRA Camping World Series Funny Car title. The Southern California native qualified No. 1 with a 3.837-second blast at 337.33 mph, collecting six bonus points along the way in qualifying. Those bonus points moved Capps to just under two rounds behind Hight going into eliminations. Capps defeated Jeff Arend and Tim Wilkerson in the first two rounds of eliminations. When Hight lost to Bob Tasca III in the second round, the door was open for Capps to take the title. Capps then won his semifinal match with Tasca, passing Hight for the points lead. Capps secured the championship when he made a clean pass in the final, losing with a 3.85-second pass at 333.16 mph to Cruz Pedregon’s 3.839-second effort. Capps started the 2022 season as a team owner, forming Ron Capps Motorsports after winning the 2021 championship with longtime team owner Don Schumacher and Don Schumacher Racing. Even with the added challenges that come with the owner/operator role, Capps was able to come out on top yet again. “Anything you put your mind to you can do with great people around you,” said Capps, who’s just the seventh Funny Car driver to win as many as three titles. “I can’t even begin to say what it feels like right now. This is for the NAPA AutoCare people, all the NAPA AutoCare owners – 6,000 strong – and for everybody at home that puts on a Ron Capps and NAPA jersey watching on the couch on Fox Sports; Gearwrench; and of course, Toyota coming on board. But my family more than anything, we have taken on a role this year that’s been unbelievable. I’m sure you’ve seen me age quite a bit in the last year or so.” Capps and the NAPA team wasted no time putting together an impressive championship defense campaign as they made a run for the 2022 title. Continuing under the tuning guidance of crew chiefs Dean ‘Guido’ Antonelli and John Medlen, the newly formed Ron Capps Motorsports launched with a statement-making debut when they raced to a runner-up finish from the pole position at the 2022 season-opening NHRA Winternationals in February. While they came up just short of capturing the victory, Capps and his NAPA team didn’t have to wait long before finding the winner’s circle. At the fourth race of the season, the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas, Capps went wire-to-wire, driving his machine to victory from the top of the Funny Car ladder to score his 69th professional triumph and win No. 1 for Ron Capps Motorsports. Later that month, Capps was thrilled to announce a partnership with Toyota, becoming the manufacturer’s third Funny Car driver. Capps took ownership of the brand-new Toyota GR Supra Funny Car body at the Charlotte race, and had the distinct honor of becoming Toyota’s first driver to power the new body style to victory when he picked up his second win of the season in Bristol, Tenn. before piloting the Supra to its first No. 1 qualifier spot in Norwalk, Ohio a few weeks later. Among Capps’ other season highlights were his big win at the Indianapolis race where he ran the table, notching the No. 1 qualifier honors and winning the Pep Boys All-Star Call Out specialty race before powering his NAPA Supra to victory to win his first U.S. Nationals trophy in more than 25 attempts. Capps then went on to score a pair of Countdown victories in Charlotte and Ennis, Texas, which helped to place him solidly into the championship hunt heading into the final two races of the season, and set up an epic three-way battle between Capps, Hight, and fellow championship hopeful Matt Hagan. For their efforts, Capps and the NAPA team never dropped below third on the Funny Car leaderboard throughout the entirety of the season. While Capps assumed the points lead after his semifinal victory at the Finals, he wasn’t immediately declared the champion. The points lead over Hight was so slim that a points deduction in the final round, caused by crossing the centerline or a similar infraction, would jeopardize the championship. Still, Capps gave it his all in the final round, making his quickest pass of eliminations in the runner-up effort. “I’m sure there were some upset people on the starting line – everybody thought I was going to shut off,” Capps said. “And I had planned on it if I didn’t see Cruz. I hugged the wall all the way down. I hope everybody appreciates that I ran it through the finish line because that was a hard decision to make. It was for the fans. I did the longest burnout I’ve done in a long time – for the fans. I can say honestly we didn’t go out there and shut it off.” While the NAPA team’s season-long battle for the crown culminated in the ultimate prize on Sunday, the day had a slight bittersweet feel to it, as it marked the end of co-crew chief John Medlen’s time on the NHRA tour as a full-time crew chief. “To send Medlen off and to send one of these (Wallys) to his cabin in Georgia, it’s going to be phenomenal,” Capps said. “He means so much to us.” Capps and team will continue under the leadership of Antonelli, who Capps knew for many years before the two started working together at the start of the 2021 season. “We both grew up crew guys – I met him as a crew guy at John Force’s,” Capps said. “We feel like two kids playing marbles in the field. It’s phenomenal that we can go have fun and do this.” Following their Sunday afternoon championship celebration, Capps and the NAPA team will be honored on Monday evening at the NHRA Awards Ceremony in Temecula, Calif. Start / Finish: Qualified No. 1 / Defeated by Cruz Pedregon in the finals Points Earned: 151 2022 NHRA Camping World Series Points Standing / Total: No. 1 / 2,682 pts. NAPA Racing:@NAPARacing Ron Capps: @RonCapps28 Ron Capps Motorsports: @TeamRonCapps The post Capps Clinches Third NHRA Funny Car Championship, First for Ron Capps Motorsports appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Get the Best of Both Worlds Are you looking for the perfect vehicle accessory for that new driver in your life? Spread some holiday cheer by shopping the best vehicle add-ons for those who aren’t quite sure what they need! We’ll walk you through the best tips and gift ideas for car accessories as you shop NAPA’s selection of 160,000+ online parts with Free One-Day Shipping. With an extensive line of accessories that can seriously enhance driving conditions, you can easily improve cabin comfort, upgrade navigation assistance and make that ride your own with personalized flair. Those who are avid vehicle modifiers probably already know what they need to round out their ride, but when it comes to first-time drivers, it’s nice to give them a nudge in the right direction. While safety always is the priority when it comes to driving success, there’s a ton of room to boost levels of comfort, functionality and preparedness while truly elevating a beginning driver’s experience on the road. The Power of Personalization To many, vehicles start out as a semi-blank canvas ready for customization with performance enhancers, accent pieces, electronic capability, comfort upgrades, interior protection and so much more. Gone are the days when your vehicle was simply a transportation vessel and not an extension of the driver’s personality. Now, more than ever, automotive enthusiasts and average car owners alike are flocking to the automotive accessories market to help them create their ideal vehicle beyond the manufacturer’s confines. But when you think of ‘vehicle customization,’ you might envision outdated steering wheel covers, hanging ornaments (like those fuzzy dice) or classic bumper stickers. There’s nothing inherently wrong with these add-ons, but they only scratch the surface of the vehicle accessorizing world. Nowadays, you can easily shop for and install custom-fitted interior upholstery, Bluetooth capability, bike racks and LED add-ons that transform a commuter ride into an off-road, road tripping, beach cruiser machine. If you’re looking for practical and unbeatable upgrades, there’s no better way to level up your ride than with branded floor liners or seat covers. Gifting a set of quality interior seat covers or floor mats are an excellent and sensible gift that’ll most definitely get used, especially by those who want to keep the investment of their ride intact. Modern Upgrades for the Beginner Car Now, more than ever, people are demanding that their vehicles keep up with their lifestyles, which means they’re not willing to compromise when a higher standard of luxury and personalization exists! However, more likely than not, someone’s first car is not a high-end vehicle decked out in the latest electronics. They might sport an older model with an analog radio and cigarette lighters—a hand-me-down ride that’s still kicking but could use a little TLC to make it feel ‘new’ again. That gives you the perfect opportunity to gift some car accessories that bring modern touches to an old reliable machine. While most newer vehicles come equipped with Bluetooth radio capability, some drivers still don’t know the beauty of an upgraded stereo system with clean, rich sound quality and wireless connection. If you’re shopping for someone who would appreciate a fine-tuned radio for jam-sessions or crisp voice calls, shop NAPA’s selection of vehicle audio products and pick up something like the Single DIN Mechless Bluetooth Stereo for an affordable audio upgrade. For more tips on tech upgrades for older vehicles, check out NAPA’s article on “DIY Tech Upgrades for Analog Vehicles That Improve Your Drive Time.” Safety Enhancers That Offer Function and Flair Consider a classic cell phone charger or cell phone mount for a more budget-friendly console gift. Because many drivers use smartphones as a tool for navigation, these products are vital for a hands-free driving experience. LED lighting is another great dashboard improvement to illuminate your instrument cluster and make it easy to see at night, plus it just looks cool! There are tons of LED add-on options for tailgate lighting, lightbar options, headlights, off-road lighting and more. Lighting upgrades boost safety and style, thus it is a great gift choice for new drivers who can use all the visibility they can get! Whether you’re a new driver or not, it’s always important to stay well-stocked with emergency preparedness supplies. These are not the flashiest type of accessories, but they are incredibly useful and easily hold the power to avoid an inconvenient or dangerous situation. A can of Fix A Flat, flashlight and some jumper cables are just a few essentials that you should include in your roadside emergency kit. You can’t go wrong with an assortment of affordable, stylish and functional aftermarket accessories that are sure to excite anyone about customizing their ride. There’s no better way to feel like your vehicle is all your own! Remember to shop NAPAOnline.com for some automotive holiday cheer and receive one NAPA Rewards point for every dollar you spend. Photo courtesy of Pexels. The post The Ultimate Vehicle Accessory Gift Guide for New Drivers appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Spreading Carlyle Cheer: A Holiday Tool Gift Guide It’s that time of the year where you’re thinking about how to spread some holiday cheer—and it can cause a bit of stress! The NAPA Network is here to pare down the endless online tool aisles and give you top-notch recommendations for quality tool gift ideas that your special someone will actually use. Whether you’re trying to surprise a car enthusiast, encourage someone with DIY talent or treat yourself to a much-needed replacement or upgrade, Carlyle Tools is the way to go. Precisely engineered, stylish and affordable, Carlyle Tools delivers robust options for all shoppers, whether they’re just beginning a tool collection or expanding their at-home mechanic shop. With many tool brands on the market, why choose Carlyle Tools? As NAPA’s premium tool line, these automotive tools are proven as industry-grade and value-driven. They offer an exceptional level of quality with input from professional technicians who know what works and what doesn’t. Carlyle’s handheld tools are manufactured to deliver long-lasting performance in the harshest conditions. To solidify the brand’s commitment to quality, the entire assortment from Carlyle Tools comes with a Lifetime Warranty on which you can depend. Stocking Your Socket Sets Ditch the lists that focus on flash rather than function and invest in products that won’t sit in a box or end up in a landfill. When it comes to holiday shopping guides, functionality and high-quality craftsmanship should reside at the forefront of your mind. With a selection of tools that are handsomely styled, pack a punch and won’t break the bank, anything from Carlyle makes a wonderful holiday gift for car enthusiasts. Even if you’re not shopping for a classic car fanatic, every homeowner, DIY enthusiast and self-sufficient adult should have a basic collection of handheld tools for day-to-day jobs and household projects that just need a little elbow grease. Lucky for you, the Carlyle brand is well-known for its line of handheld tools and carries a wide selection of wrenches, ratchets, screwdrivers and pliers. Whether you’re looking for individual items or organized, adaptable sets, these types of tools are great options to ‘sneak into someone’s stocking.’ These popular products are affordable, handy and extremely versatile with multiple applications. For someone just starting out their tool collection, gifting a Screwdriver Set Combination or a 12-Piece Flexible Ratcheting Wrench Set may serve as a catalyst to future tool exploration. Not only are you providing someone a quality toolkit, but you’re also giving the gift of independence, inspiration and a nudge into DIY territory. Under the Tree For someone looking to add onto their existing collection, the Carlyle Tool line is a step in the right direction. Know someone who’s always tackling their DIY projects late at night or someone who’s always asking you to hold their flashlight? Gift them a Carlyle headlamp with wireless charging capability or a rechargeable 500 lumen work light with hanging hook and magnetic base! Maybe your car lover already has quite the tool assortment, but they could use a better system to consolidate and arrange these expensive items. While Carlyle does carry garage staples like heavy-duty, aluminum tool chests, these are often bigger investment pieces that are possibly beyond your budget. However, compact storage solutions like the Carlyle Parts Tray or Backpack Tool Bag are perfect options for those casual mechanics looking to keep their tools organized and accessible. The Backpack Tool Bag is especially ideal for road trips, house calls or track days. The waterproof hard bottom base adds structure and protection to your bag, while the cushioned adjustable strap makes it easy to throw it over your shoulder and hit the road. There’s no need to dig through the pack for all your tools; you can easily remove the incorporated 48-pocket organizer for better access. Shopping for Gearheads It may seem like that gearhead in your life has it all, but that’s far from true! Many tool collectors and car lovers focus on practicality and forget comfort. That’s where mobile garage equipment like creepers and stools can come in handy. These garage essentials may seem like luxury items to DIYers who have no problem getting down and dirty. But these surprise gifts can make certain automotive projects, like under-car maintenance, much safer and more enjoyable. On no matter which gift you land, your lucky recipient will get years of quality craftsmanship from this tool line. Shopping Carlyle Tools is the best way to show your interest and understanding in a car enthusiast’s dreams or someone’s DIY passion all while getting the most bang for your buck. So, spread that holiday cheer by visiting NAPAOnline.com to find hot deals on Carlyle Tools and get one NAPA Rewards Point for every $1 you spend. The post Spreading Carlyle Cheer: A Holiday Tool Gift Guide appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article