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Air conditioning is one of those things that’s easy to take for granted — until you don’t have it. When it’s the middle of summer and the temperature outside is rising, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a car that’s blowing hot air out of the vents … or in a car with an air conditioner that's not blowing at all. Being in a car without air conditioning in hot weather isn’t just annoying; it can also be dangerous, since cars heat up quickly. This puts you at risk for dehydration and even heat stroke. It’s even more dangerous for children, the elderly and people with compromised health, so making sure your air conditioning is in good working condition is definitely something you want to make a priority this summer. That means if you’re hitting the road this summer, you’ll probably want to have your mechanic give it a quick checkup before you go. Visit the Taylor's Auto Max online scheduling tool to make an appointment to have your vehicle's air conditioning system inspected before the summer heat begins. Diagnosing the Problem Like most things under the hood, air conditioners can stop working for a number of different reasons. Knowing what to look for can help you troubleshoot why your car A/C is not working and let you know what steps you need to take next. Let’s look at the most common reasons your car A/C might have stopped working. Begin with Testing How your AC Feels If the air conditioning is set to max cool and fans on high, but is only blowing moderately cool air: Check to see that the cooling fans on the condenser or radiator are running when the air conditioning is on. Look for any restrictions like leaves, bugs or dirt that would keep air from passing over the condenser. Check the cabin air filter to ensure that it is not clogged. Beyond this, the next step is to always check the pressures in the system using a manifold gauge set. The recommended high-side and low-side pressures can be found in your vehicle's repair manual, or online. Once you have your gauges hooked up, move on to observing the AC compressor itself. Refrigerant Leak This is one of the most common causes of car A/Cs not working. Leaks can originate from a number of different places; it could be the result of rubber seals and hoses breaking down over time, and that allows the refrigerant, Freon, to escape. The bigger danger when this happens goes beyond not having cool air in your car, but those weak spots can also allow moisture to get inside your car’s cooling system and mix with the refrigerant. When moisture and Freon mix together, they create a dangerous acidic combination that can harm you and your passengers, and will corrode your A/C system and cause permanent damage. As with any type of leak, you want to get this fixed quickly so it doesn’t continue causing problems for your car. Broken Cooling Fans Just like you need blowers to push the air conditioning through the vents in your home, your car uses cooling fans to move the refrigerated air into your vehicle’s cabin. When there’s a problem with the fans, you won’t feel any air coming out of the vents. Cooling fans can stop working properly for a number of different reasons; they might have blown fuses, an electrical short, or could have been cracked by debris from the road. Fortunately, this is fairly simple to fix; your mechanic should be able to replace it quickly and get you back on the road. A Problem with the Compressor Your air conditioning relies on a compressor to keep the air moving, but if the compressor isn’t working properly, that refrigerant isn’t going to move around. One of the main reasons a compressor goes bad is from not being used for long periods of time, and the long cool seasons of fall and winter means that many Montanans don’t run their air conditioning for several months. A compressor can also have problems if the clutch on the compressor gets stuck. If it gets stuck in the “on” position it will make your air conditioning run continuously, and if it’s stuck in the “off” position it will keep the compressor from engaging. You’ll need to have your mechanic look at what is causing the problem with your compressor. With the engine running, turn the A/C on max cool, set fans high, and make sure that the clutch is engaging on the compressor. Note: this is not the pulley, but the center piece that engages the pulley to the compressor shaft. If the clutch is engaging and disengaging once every few seconds, this is a sign of low refrigerant. You will also see the low-side pressure on your gauge drop rapidly when the clutch engages, hit a point of too-low pressure, then disengage and the pressure will rise. As you add more refrigerant, the gauge will hold steady, with the compressor running, and should hold at the recommended pressure. If the clutch is not engaging and the system has refrigerant, use a voltmeter to check for voltage getting to the compressor. If there is voltage - the clutch may be bad. If there is no voltage - a cycling switch may be bad, a fuse may be blown, and the system may not have enough refrigerant pressure to trip the low pressure cutoff switch that cycles the compressor. An Issue with the Condenser The condenser plays an important role; it takes the humid air in the air compressor and depressurizes, cools and liquefies that air. In simpler terms, it helps turn the air cool. When your air conditioning isn’t cooling as much, it could be a sign of a failing condenser. Electrical Problems There are several things that can cause electrical problems for your car’s air conditioning. These can include failed switches, a blown fuse, a problem with the control module or something else. Fuses can short out and make the A/C stop working or a loose connection can create an electrical short that is easily fixed. While electrical issues in the air conditioning system are often easy to fix, they need to be addressed immediately, since they can cause acid buildup. Acid buildup can cause serious damage to your vehicle and can even lead to needing to replace the entire air conditioning system. Staying on top of problems will keep this from happening. Other Leaks Leaks are one of the most common problems associated with the air conditioning system. If pressure is low, then there may be a leak. Using a UV A/C leak detection kit is the easiest way to find a leak. Follow the instructions on the packaging to introduce UV dye to the system and UV light to find the leak. Check around all fittings to verify that they are all secure. Check hose manifolds on the compressor. Check the front seal and the o-rings sealing the pressure switches on the back of some compressors. Check where the hoses are crimped onto the fittings. Check the Schrader Valves. Check for pin holes in the condenser. Check where the evaporator drains condensation with UV light. Sometimes oil or dye can be seen. Note: The dye check will not work if the system is too low and the compressor is not cycling. Still not sure? Check these Components AC Compressor and Clutch As mentioned before, the AC compressor is a rotating pump that circulates refrigerant (Freon) throughout the system. Common Problems: Leaks in one or more seals or the compressor itself can occur. Particle contamination from worn parts inside the compressor are a frequent culprit. The engagement clutch, called an AC clutch, can also fail rendering the compressor inoperative. What to Look For: If the refrigerant is low, check for visible system leaks that appear green and oily. Failing internal components caused by normal wear or low AC Oil levels caused by leaks. Failed AC clutch. Failed power supply to the AC clutch caused by a blown fuse, bad pressure control switch, dash control module or a broken circuit wire. Inspect and test before replacing! AC Accumulator / Drier The Accumulator/Drier collects and absorbs moisture. Moisture is like poison to the internal system components and can damage the AC Compressor as well. Depending on your vehicle, you may have an accumulator or a receiver/drier. Common Problems: Internal failure allowing desiccant material to enter the AC system. Like sugar in the gas tank, this stuff in the wrong places can cause major problems. Leaks can result in over-saturation of the desiccant material that can lead to compressor damage. AC Orifice Tube / Expansion Valve The AC orifice tube / expansion device filters and regulates the flow of refrigerant through your air conditioning system. Depending on your vehicle, you may have an orifice tube or an expansion valve. Common Problems: Contamination is the main cause of failure. If the system pressures are too high and/or too low, the expansion device could possibly be the issue. But first, ensure the refrigerant levels are correct and the radiator/A/C Condenser fan(s) are working properly. Remember, inspect and test before replacing! AC Evaporator Core The AC evaporator acts like a huge ice cube with holes in it. It allows the hot, cabin air to flow through the core, rapidly cools this air, and blows it out into the cabin again. The cool air felt from the dash vents is provided by the AC heater blower motor assembly. Common Problems: The number one cause of failure is a leak due to age and wear. An electronic leak detector is the best way to check for leaks. Give attention to the AC evaporator box water drain tube. Use the tester to search for a leak. A green and oily substance may appear in the drain tube if larger leaks are present. AC Condenser The AC condenser looks similar to a radiator and works in conjunction with the radiator fan(s). Air flowing across the AC condenser tubes cool the hot (gaseous) refrigerant that absorbed heat from inside the vehicle. This returns the refrigerant back to a liquid state where it will once again enter the evaporator core and absorb more heat from the interior. Common Problems: Refrigerant leaks. Contaminant particles from the AC Compressor or AC Accumulator/Drier restricting the flow of refrigerant can lead to poor cooling. While checking the AC Condenser, inspect the Radiator / AC cooling fan motor(s).

Memorial Day weekend is almost here, and camping season has officially begun. After months of being cooped up in our homes, now is the perfect time to jump in the car and go on a road trip you'll never forget. But to make sure it all goes off without a hitch, take a look at our checklist so you're fully prepared for everything your adventure brings. 1. Check Tires and Tire Pressure Inspect all four tires and, if you have one, the spare tire as well. Look for cuts, gouges or sidewall bulges. Insert a penny upside down into grooves to check tire tread. If you see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head, it is time for new tires. Check tire pressure when the car has been idle and tires are cool. Inflate as needed to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. You will find it listed in the owner’s manual and on the sticker of the driver side door jamb. Do not use the number on the tire sidewall. 2. Test and Listen to Your Brakes If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection. A service professional will check the brake system for fluid leaks, and the pads, rotors, shoes and drums. If repair or replacement is needed, you can schedule an appointment with Taylor's Auto Max's Service Department here. 3. Check the Battery Check your car's battery to be sure the connection is tight and corrosion-free. If there is corrosion, you'll need to disconnect the battery and clean the connectors with a wire brush. Batteries contain corrosive acid that may leak if battery connectors are forced off, so if you're not familiar with how to check and clean a car battery, it may be best to leave it to a professional. As a general rule of thumb, you should have your vehicle's battery checked annually after it's more than two years old. 4. Top Off Engine Oil and Other Fluids Check the levels of your car's many fluids, including engine oil, power steering and transmission fluids and windshield washer fluid. If any of them are low, top them off before hitting the road. If your car is close to needing its next oil change, it may be worth having it done before your trip. You should also check your vehicle's engine coolant (also known as antifreeze) tank to confirm it's filled to the car manufacturer's recommended level. However, keep in mind that even if it's filled to the proper level, you may still need to have the coolant changed out if there are floating particles in it or if the fluid is clear. Coolant can also become acidic over time, so you may want to have your coolant tank checked for any corrosion. This could cause damage to other parts of the vehicle, such as the radiator or hoses. 5. Check Belts and Hoses Engine belts and hoses are critical when it comes to keeping your car's electrical, power steering and cooling systems functioning properly. Have them inspected to determine if any are frayed or cracked. Belts should also be tightly installed, so be sure to verify that they're secure and don't have a large amount of slack. Lastly, be sure to have your hoses checked for any leaks or drips. Don't forget to check your owner's manual for recommended belt and hose service intervals, as some cars may require replacements in as little as 60,000 miles. 6. Check Air Filters Most vehicles have two types of air filters. The engine air filter provides debris-free air to the engine, and the cabin air filter filters the incoming air to the passenger compartment. For the vehicle to perform as intended and for the people inside it to breathe freely, the vehicle’s air filters need to be replaced regularly. The engine air filter and cabin filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Barring that, every 10,000 to 15,000 miles is a good rule of thumb. 7. Replace Wiper Blades and Replenish Windshield Cleaner Rubber wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with fluid formulated to remove insects and other debris, and test to make sure the nozzles spray adequately. 8. Verify Lights and Electrical Equipment are Working A vehicle’s headlights are an obvious source of light, but there are multiple bulbs inside the cabin that may occasionally need checking and replacement. There is nothing more irritating than trying to use an interior light after dark, only to find out that it has burned out. These are generally easy to replace, and most auto parts stores carry a wide variety of replacements saving you trip to the dealer. 9. Test the Air Conditioner Take a test drive with the air conditioner running. If you notice a decrease in cooling capacity, take the car to an auto repair shop for diagnosis. Also have the cabin filter inspected and replaced as needed. 10. Clean and Replenish Emergency Supplies Driving a clean vehicle doesn’t just make for a more pleasant experience behind the wheel; it can add up to a fuel economy penalty if there is enough added weight. In addition to a full vacuum and exterior wash, make sure to remove all the excess baggage—athletic equipment, laundry and the rest of the daily detritus—to remove any extra weight. As a side bonus, it will clear room for luggage and other items required for the road trip. Plus, the psychological benefits of hitting the road in a clean, well-organized machine will make the trip even better. It's also recommended that you keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 1. Give your Tires the Attention they Need Saves up to 8 cents per gallon. One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy is make sure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. A recent report from the Rubber Manufactures Association, the national trade association for tire manufacturers, revealed that only one of every six vehicles on the road today have their tires inflated correctly. This error can not only negatively impact your fuel economy, but it can also cause improper tire wear and vehicle handling. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, improperly inflated tires contribute to more than 600 fatalities and 33,000 injuries annually in the United States. In addition to inflating your tires correctly, getting your tires rotated and balanced will also help to improve gas mileage. Always check your tire pressure in cool conditions, ideally when the vehicle has been sitting in shaded conditions for at least 8 hours. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 2. Get the Junk out of the Trunk Saves up to 6 cents per gallon. Cleaning your vehicle of any extra, unneeded items can also be an easy way to improve your vehicle’s gas milage. By reducing the weight in your vehicle, you can instantly increase your fuel economy. There are some items you should always keep in your car, like an emergency kit, jumper cables, and a spare tire. However, as little as 100 pounds can reduce your fuel economy. Clearing out unnecessary and unused items like forgotten backpacks, books, and work out equipment can help lighten the weight. The lightened load will also put less stress and strain on your vehicle’s components and systems, such as the engine and the brakes.  Add-ons like bike racks, cargo racks, and roof racks can also be removed, and rear-mounted cargo racks are a better option if you need to haul additional items. At highway speeds, roof-mounted cargo boxes can reduce fuel economy by 6-17%, while their rear-mounted counterparts typically have a 1-5% impact. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 3. Turn Off your Engine Saves up to 2 cents per gallon for every 2 minutes. Another easy way to save money on fuel economy is to simply turn off your car’s engine when idling. Idling refers to a running vehicle that’s not in motion, including stopping for a traffic light for over 30 seconds. You may have noticed that some newer vehicle models already feature a stop-start system. This allows cars to conserve fuel by automatically shutting down the engine when the car comes to a stop, and the engine will automatically restart when the brake is released. Idling uses more fuel than restarting your vehicle, and gives off 80% more pollution than when your car is in motion. Another fun fact – you don’t need to “warm up” your engine before you hit the road, it’s just a myth that costs you money! Auto experts say that you shouldn’t take more than 30 seconds to warm up your car in the winter months. The engine will warm up faster as it’s being driven, and it’s better to turn your engine off and start it again than to leave it idling. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 4. Use the Ideal Motor Oil for your Vehicle Saves up to 5 cents per gallon. Whether you decide to have a professional handle your oil changes or you prefer to do it yourself, be sure that you are using the best motor oil for your specific vehicle. There are a few primary engine oil types to choose from, including Conventional Oil, Synthetic Oil, Synthetic Blend Oil, and High Mileage Oil. There are also many factors you should consider for your vehicle’s oil, like the age of your vehicle, your own driving style, and the climate where you drive. Always follow the vehicles owner’s manual to determine the proper viscosity grade, engine oil specification, and oil drain interval. If you’re still not sure what oil to choose for your vehicle, and specifically which option is best for your fuel economy, you can book an appointment with one of our highly knowledgeable and friendly Service team members. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 5. Replace your Dirty Air Filters Saves up to 15% of fuel consumption. Your vehicle’s system traps contaminants in an air filter made up of paper and synthetic fibers. Over time, the filter becomes filled with dirt and debris, preventing the engine from breathing properly. As a result, the engine will have to work harder and use more fuel. Replacing your engine’s air filter will restore the vehicle’s performance and efficiency, while improving the driving ability of the car and its gas milage. Not only does a dirty air filter cost you more money at the pump, it also jeopardizes the vehicle’s engine. The best rule of thumb is to check your air filter once a year, and exchange your air filter according to the manufacturer’s specifications in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 6. Give your Breaks a Break Saves up to 99 cents per gallon. If you find your left foot constantly pressing on the breaks while you’re driving, you’re causing a lot more damage than you think. Firstly, doing this will wear down the pads and rotors prematurely. Secondly, forcing your car to take sudden stops and quick accelerations can stress your vehicle’s system, causing it to use more energy and fuel to drive and to stop. Of course, sudden braking can’t always be avoided, but it should only be used when necessary. Instead, when approaching a traffic light or stop sign, take your foot off the accelerator and wait before applying the breaks by allowing your vehicle to slow down on its own. Not only will your car appreciate the stress taken off the breaks, but your passengers will enjoy a smoother ride as well! If you’re unsure about the performance of your breaks, you can schedule an appointment with our talented Service Team here to make sure you’re driving safely and efficiently. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 7. Consider a Front-End Alignment Saves up to 28 cents per gallon. We’ve all braced ourselves from the impact of hitting a pothole while driving in our vehicle. Over time, these impacts to our cars lead to a misalignment in the wheel system. Instead of rolling freely, misaligned tires drag along the road. A misaligned vehicle reduces mileage, causes premature tire wear, and forces your engine to work harder than usual. Fixing the issue will help improve steering, give you and your passengers a smoother ride, allow your tires to have a longer life-span, and can help keep your car out of the shop with fewer auto repairs.  If you notice your car pulling to one side of the road while driving, or you can feel vibrations while driving, it may be time for a wheel alignment. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 8. Fill your Tank Early or Late Saves up to 8 cents per gallon. Car fuel is dispensed by volume and gasoline, like all liquids, expands when heated. Because of this, gasoline will be denser in the cool temperatures of the early morning or late evening. The dense fuel will allow your vehicle to run longer on the same amount of fuel pumped into the car. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 9. Keep Up with Maintenance Saves up to 4% on fuel economy. One of the best ways to improve your gas mileage is to keep your car in great shape. A faulty engine or failed emissions test can drain your fuel tank.  ExxonMobil claims that regular tune-ups can increase efficiency by 4%. AAA puts this percentage much higher, saying that significant engine problems can cause you to use up to 50% more fuel. Ensuring your vehicle is running at its best performance level will not only help your fuel economy, but will also improve the driving ability and the car’s financial value. Our Service Team at Taylor’s Auto Max can diagnose any auto repairs needed and make sure that your car is operating at it’s very best. Click here to schedule an appointment. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com 10. Take it Slow and Enjoy the Ride Saves up to 20 cents per gallon. When driving somewhere, most of us have a destination to get to or people to see. Usually, we want to get to our stop as quickly as possible, but constantly leading the pack on the road can cause your fuel economy to decrease. When you regularly demand your vehicle to accelerate quickly, you force your engine to work harder than it needs to. Aside from quick accelerations, if you simply lower your overall speed, you will notice your fuel can be stretched further. According to Integrity First Car Pros, you can save around 7% on fuel consumption for every 5-mph reduced. Driving along an open road in the beautiful state of Montana is an experience you shouldn’t rush. Image Source: https://www.istockphoto.com Sources: https://www.ncconsumer.org/news-articles-eg/properly-inflated-tires-save-money-and-lives.html https://www.gmfinancial.com/en-us/financial-resources/articles/improve-fuel-efficiency.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2014/12/29/the-biggest-winter-energy-myth-that-you-need-to-idle-your-car-before-driving/ https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/oil-change/how-to-pick-the-best-motor-oil/# https://brakeexperts.com/why-does-braking-use-fuel/ https://www.pgfilters.com/blog/can-replacing-air-filter-improve-gas-mileage/ https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/alignment/benefits-of-wheel-alignment/ https://www.ndtv.com/business/petrol-diesel-why-you-should-refuel-in-the-morning-387240 https://www.integrity1auto.com/9-tips-to-increase-gas-mileage-up-to-45-percent/

Get an Oil Change If you've been putting off your oil change, then it's time to put an end to it. Oil is essential to your engine's smooth operation, and in order for the oil to move efficiently through your engine, then it must be changed regularly. Without a regular oil change, sludge can build up in your engine, and that sludge can require an expensive cleaning or even that some parts are replaced. Driving far when you need an oil change can significantly damage your engine. The last thing you need is for that damage to cause a breakdown hundreds of miles from home. Have Your Brakes Checked Safety is essential any time you enter your vehicle, and your brakes are central to ensuring a safe road trip. Over time, your brake pads can become thin and ineffective. Sometimes your brakes will warn you that they're becoming too thin when they screech or squeal. If you're hearing that sound, then you need to have your brakes checked and potentially replaced before your long journey. Most brakes should last between 25,000 and 70,000 miles. Check Fluids Your vehicle's fluids are crucial to a smooth and safe operation. Before you hop on the road for your road trip, check these fluids, especially if you have passed the fluid's associated mileage marker: Radiator fluid: This fluid keeps your engine cool by pulling heat from your engine and releasing it through the radiator. Top off this fluid before your trip, and flush the entire system every 50,000 miles. Brake fluid: Every time you push your brake pedal, brake fluid forces the brake pads to clamp. You should top off brake fluid regularly and flush it every 36,000 miles. Power steering fluid: This fluid helps you easily turn your steering wheel. To keep this fluid from being contaminated and making it harder to turn your steering wheel, you should have this system checked every 24,000 miles. Inspect Your Tires Nothing will ruin your road trip like a blown tire. Before you leave, you should check both your tire pressure and your tire tread. If you haven't rotated your tires in the past 5,000 to 8,000 miles, then you should have them rotated to guarantee even wear. If you've had your tires for more than 50,000 miles, they may need to be replaced. Fresh tires will also improve your gas mileage and save you a few bucks in fuel costs. Test Your Vehicle's Battery If you don't want to have your car die at a rest stop in the middle of nowhere, then you should test your battery before you leave, especially if the battery is older than three years. If you're planning on taking your trip in the summer, testing your battery is even more important since the heat can evaporate battery fluid and lead to more battery damage. Don't let vehicle issues ruin this upcoming road trip. To guarantee your car is ready for your journey, come to Taylor's AutoMax. Image by Nissan.com

The Nissan Maxima is a full-size luxury sedan that has stood the test of time. The current generation arrived just three years ago, and the 2019 model sees just a few changes including a refreshed look to bring it in line with the rest of the models in the Nissan lineup, and it gets some new technology. Here are some of the 2019 Nissan Maxima's best features. The Exterior The Maxima received some updated exterior styling elements including wraparound jewel-eye LED headlights and a deeper, more aggressive looking V-Motion grille. The new grille is much larger and extends through the bumper, and there are now triangular fog light housings. Around back, there are new LED taillights and quad-tip exhaust. Nissan also added the option for 18-inch or 19-inch wheels. The exterior look of the Maxima remains essentially the same, still featuring the fluid lines and bold features. The Engine and Performance All the Maxima models come with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 300 horsepower. This powertrain works with Nissan's Xtronic CVT and front-wheel drive. The well-designed CVT system mimics a traditional automatic transmission by allowing the revs to rise as the car accelerates and then fall when it reaches full throttle. Choosing the Sport mode will adjust the throttle response and make it a more spirited drive. In the Cabin The sport seats are one of the best features in the Maxima's cabin. An eight-way power adjustable driver's seat comes standard along with a push-button ignition, and keyless entry. Some optional equipment includes leather upholstery depending on the trim, heated front seats, and a dual-panel panoramic moonroof. You can also add a heated steering wheel, and if you add the Reserve Package to the Platinum trim, it comes with heated rear seats and Rakuda Tan semi-aniline leather seats. The Technology Even the base model Maxima comes standard with an 8-inch touch screen display and the NissanConnect infotainment system. This includes navigation, voice commands, Google search, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and both Type A and Type C USB ports. All the models also include a 7-inch color driver information display that sits between the main gauges, and if you bump up to the SL, it comes with an upgraded Bose stereo system. Safety Features All the different Maxima trims come standard with a rearview camera and automatic emergency braking. More safety features are available depending on the trim. You can get forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking that includes pedestrian detection, a blind spot monitoring system, automatic rear braking. You'll also get Nissan's Intelligent Driver Alertness system. This helps to reduce drowsy driving by detecting behaviors consistent with drowsiness and then alerting the driver through an audible chime and displaying an amber coffee cup on the instrument panel. The 2019 Nissan Maxima is still a top choice for driver's looking for luxury. It seats up to five passengers in a comfortable, well-appointed cabin, it has a strong engine and good fuel economy, and it offers a smooth and comfortable ride.

Heat and friction from your car's moving parts require lubrication, and without it, your car just can't function properly. Most drivers know all about the lifeblood of every automobile's engine — oil, but what other fluids does your car use? Don't hit the road without an occasional once-over of your car's vital fluids. Discover these five fluids you can't afford to forget in your vehicle and satisfy your car's thirst with these easy tips. Transmission Fluid It's important to check your car's transmission fluid regularly to prevent damage to your car's powertrain. Just like oil lubricates your engine's pistons, transmission fluid lubricates your car's gears. It also provides the hydraulic pressure needed to operate your gearbox. Check your fluid monthly and replace it every 50,000 miles or as often as noted in your owner's manual. Transmission fluid works within a closed system and should never "run out."  If you notice a depletion in your transmission fluid levels, get your car to the dealer's service center right away. Brake Fluid No one needs to explain the importance of fast braking, therefore checking your brake fluid should be a top priority. Similar to the way your transmission uses hydraulic pressure to shift gears, your brakes use fluid to apply pressure to your brake's calipers. Also like transmission fluid, brakes operate in a closed system and should never be low on fluid. Check your brake fluid levels every time you check your engine oil, or about once a month, and anytime you notice a change in the way your brake pedal feels. Radiator Coolant With the help of your radiator, coolant or antifreeze helps protect your car from overheating, either by engine heat or high ambient temperatures. Coolant also acts as an "antifreeze" to prevent your engine block from freezing during the winter. Check your coolant levels every six months, in the spring and fall before significant seasonal temperature changes. Flush your radiator and completely replace coolant every two years, or as directed by your service technician. Power Steering Fluid Power steering fluid was a phenomenal invention in 1951 that revolutionized the automotive industry. On today's modern vehicle, without power steering fluid, it would be nearly impossible to control your car. Don't risk a collision; check your car's power steering fluid once a month or more often if you hear squeaking noises or the steering wheel is difficult to move when you make a turn. Windshield Washer Fluid While windshield washer fluid might seem trivial compared to obvious essentials like brake fluid, it's a crucial part of your car's safety components. Rain and even mist can attract dirt which sticks to your glass and limits visibility. Without washer fluid to clear away the grime, you could be in a situation where you're driving blind. This handy fluid checklist will make sure you're keeping up with your car's maintenance needs, and if any of these essential systems were to dry-up, repair costs could get pretty high. When in doubt, visit your dealership's service center and schedule an appointment to have all your fluids checked. You'll be glad you did. "step 5" by Robert Couse-Baker, licensed via CC BY 2.0

How to change the air filter in a 2011-2014 Ford F150 EcoBoost Today Taylor's Service Max is going to show you how to change the engine air filter on this 2014 Ford F-150 EcoBoost.  The first step is to loosen the clamp on the intake tube using a flat head screw driver.  Next release the three clamps that hold the air box together.  There are two in plain sight one is hidden under the intake tube.  Then slide the intake tube apart from the upper air box.  You can leave the mass airflow sensor attached because there is quite a bit of wire running to it.  Slide the upper air box our of it's retaining pieces and lay it over to the side.  You can now access and remove your air filter. How to get a complimentary air filter check up When you bring your vehicle in to Taylor's Service Max for any service we inspect the air filter as part of our routine vehicle check.  The technician will let the service advisor know if an air filter change is needed.  The service advisor will in turn inform the customer of their options to replace. Putting the new air filter in your F150 EcoBoost Taylor's Service Max uses Perfomax Air Filers. The part number is P-517. When re-installing make sure the air filter is facing the right way because they are not perfectly square.  The easiest way is to hold the air filter with the lines running horizontal.  Then set the new air filter in to place.  Once the air filter is in, take the upper air box and re-inert it into its place at an angle.  Slide the tabs back into their slots, you should feel them latch.  Push the upper air box down into place and reconnect the intake tube.  Wiggle it until it snaps into place.  Next re-clip the three clips that hold the upper and lower air box together.  Finally, using your screw driver tighten the clamp back up that secures the intake tube to the air box.  You're all done! Schedule your next service with us We hope you found this post useful.  Stay tuned for future how to videos from us featuring service tips!  If you have any questions our service department at 406-727-0377.  The service department is open Monday through Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm.  We are located at 4100 10th Avenue S. in Great Falls Montana. Schedule Service