Tips and Guides

Jack Williams Tire & Auto Service Centers is a locally owned and operated auto repair shop serving the Greater Seattle area for over 50 years. Founded in 1968 by Jack Williams, the company started as a single tire shop and has since expanded to 6 locations across the Puget Sound region. With a long-standing reputation…

Black’s Tire Service is a family-owned and operated tire sales and auto service company based in Ohio. Founded in 1975 by John Black, the company started as a single tire shop in Columbus. Over the past 40+ years, Black’s Tire Service has grown to 15 locations across central Ohio. John’s son Mike Black took over…

Proper wheel alignment is critical for safe handling and tire wear in any vehicle. The three key alignment parameters are caster, camber, and toe. Caster refers to the angle of the steering pivot axis in relation to vertical. It impacts steering wheel returnability after a turn. Camber is the tilt of the wheels from vertical…

An integrated wheel end system refers to a self-contained hub assembly on heavy trucks and trailers that integrates the wheel bearings, seals, and hub into one pre-assembled unit. This integrated design offers several benefits over traditional hub assemblies: Integrated wheel end systems are now used on most heavy trucks and trailers in North America. The…

What Are Lower Control Arm Bushings? Lower control arm bushings are an important suspension component found on virtually all modern vehicles with independent front or rear suspensions. The control arms connect the wheel hubs to the vehicle’s frame or subframe, and allow the wheels to move up and down while isolating road vibrations. Control arm…

Changing a flat tire is one of the most basic maintenance tasks for a vehicle owner. While calling roadside assistance is always an option, learning how to safely change a tire yourself can save time and money. This guide will walk through the entire process of demounting and mounting a tire, from preparation to cleanup….

Tire wear patterns refer to irregularities that can develop on the tread of your tires over time and use. Paying attention to these patterns can provide important clues about potential issues with your tires, wheels, or suspension that need to be addressed. Recognizing abnormal wear early on allows you to correct any underlying problems before…

Wheel bearings are a critical component in a vehicle’s suspension system. They allow the wheels to spin freely while supporting the weight of the vehicle. Without properly functioning wheel bearings, the wheels would not be able to rotate smoothly or safely. Wheel bearings consist of steel balls or rollers contained in a metal ring called…

What are Tire Lug Nuts? Lug nuts are fasteners that hold the wheel onto the hub of your vehicle. They are threaded to match the studs that protrude from the hub, allowing the wheel to be securely fastened. The main purpose of lug nuts is to ensure the wheel does not come loose while driving….

What are Tire Balancing Weights? Tire balancing weights, also known as wheel weights, are small metal weights that are attached to the inside or outside of vehicle wheels to help balance them. The purpose of tire balancing weights is to offset any imbalance that may be present in a tire and wheel assembly. When a…