Auto Glass Chips and Cracks: Repair or Replace?

Auto Glass Chips and Cracks: Repair or Replace?

by | Aug 20, 2019 | Auto Glass Windshield Repair

Do you have a chip or crack in your windshield? No matter how small, any blemish on your windscreen should be attended to immediately to prevent spreading and further damage.

For any type of chip or crack in your windshield, the damage will need to be assessed to answer the big question: Repair or Replace?

Obviously, you will want to try to fix any windshield issues with a repair if at all possible, as it is much less involved and expensive.

How Do I Know if a Repair or Replacement is Needed?

That all depends on the size and nature of the chip or crack on your windshield.

In most cases, it is best left to the professionals to decide. The integrity of your auto glass is a huge factor for staying safe in your vehicle.

Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, the strength of your windshield is responsible for providing anywhere from 45% – 75% of the structural integrity of your entire vehicle, should you get in an accident.

If you do happen to get into a collision and your car rolls, the windshield is relied upon to handle around 60% of the weight to keep the cabin of the automobile intact.

For the continued safety of you and your passengers, it is recommended to visit a reliable and speedy auto glass service, like Valvoline Express Care in Brampton.

Factors to Determine Repair or Replacement

To make an informed decision about which route to go to fix the blemish on your windscreen, it is important to consider several factors.

Some elements to consider about the chip or crack on your windshield, are:

  • Size
  • Depth
  • Duration
  • Location

Size

The first factor to examine is the size of the chip. Auto glass repair is becoming more efficient and effective all the time, so bigger chips are now being able to be properly fixed with a repair instead of a replacement.

The general rule of thumb is that if a chip is bigger than a toonie, a replacement will likely be required. Cracks longer than 7 or 8 cm will also probably demand a full replacement.

Superficial chips or small cracks that don’t penetrate to the inside of the glass can often be fully repaired without having to replace the glass.

Depth

Most windshields are made up of 2 or 3 layers. Some windscreens are double-paned glass, while others have three layers. Two layers of glass sandwiching a layer of plastic.

In either scenario, if the crack penetrates the inside layer of glass, it is time for a replacement.

Location

The location of the chip or crack is also critical for deciding on repair or replacement.

If a crack extends to the edge of the auto glass, then that windshield’s days are finished. There is too much risk to the structural integrity of your vehicle for cracks that hit the edge of the window.

If the crack or chip is directly in the driver’s line of vision, then a replacement is recommended. Most repairs end up leaving a little bit of distortion which can impair a driver’s ability to clearly see everything on the road in front of them.

Also, some cracks may interfere with one of the car’s automatic systems or sensors. If this is the case, then it is replacement time.

Duration

The longer a chip or crack has existed in your windshield, the more likely a replacement will be needed instead of a repair.

It is best to take care any windshield issues promptly, before the situation gets out of hand.

Auto Glass Repair and Replacement for your Safety

The number one concern for any nick, break, or slinter in in your windshield is safety. Safety for you and your passengers, and also for other drivers and pedestrians in the area.

The Uni Glass windshield replacement experts and repair experts at Valvoline Express Care have been fixing windshield issues in Brampton, Mississauga, Caledon, and Vaughan for decades.

Stop in anytime for damage assessment.

The Various Options and Benefits of Rust Proofing Brampton

The Various Options and Benefits of Rust Proofing Brampton

by | Aug 8, 2019 | Rust Proofing Brampton

Most car owners are searching for the most cost-effective method for protecting and maintaining their vehicles. Many drivers are not willing to invest money up front, even it means avoiding steep mechanic bills in the long run.

One aspect of auto maintenance that is crucial for protecting the value and structure of your car is rust proofing. Rust can cause irreversible damage to your vehicle.

Rust coating and rust proofing services help prevent oxidation from occurring on the metal components of your car. For oxidation to happen, metal must be exposed to oxygen and moisture for a prolonged period of time.

Rust and corrosion can cause issues if it starts to form on the chassis, which is particularly susceptible to rust because of dirt, slat, water, and debris it is constantly coming into contact with.

Brampton Auto Rust Proofing

A great option for professional rust proofing services in Brampton and the surrounding areas is Valvoline Express Care.

When it comes to rust protection, prevention is the best method. This is why it is so important to have your car rust proofed immediately after purchasing it.

Rust proofing is most effective when applied to a clean vehicle. If you are having rust proofing done to a used vehicle,is essential to makesure it is clean first. Otherwise you are just applying a coating overtop of the existing dirt and grime.

Different rust protection techniques can be used, depending on the state and age of your vehicle, as well as the level of protection desired.

Rust Proofing Techniques

There are various rust protection approaches available for different situations.

Some of the techniques offered are:

  • Electronic rust protection
  • Dripless oil spray
  • Drip spray (oil or tar based)

Electronic Rust Protection

An electronic module is installed on your car that sends pulses through an electrical current to disrupt the oxidation process, preventing rust from developing.

Dripless Oil Spray

An oil-based spray is applied to the car by drilling holes in the doors and fenders to cover then entire body and undercarriage. The spray hardens as it dries, leaving no drips or mess on the ground.

Drip Spray

The drip spray method tends to be more effective than dripless because the spray is less viscous and can easily access all the hard to reach nooks and crannies.

Rust Protection Process

To effectively rust proof any vehicle, certain steps must be taken. The first step is to diligently clean the body and undercarriage of your vehicle. Any existing rust can be removed with sandpaper or a grinder. A very fine grade of sandpaper is required for the job, at 220 grit or higher.

For cars where a substantial amount of rust has been removed, the chassis should be primed and painted afterwards.

Once the primer, and then the paint, has dried, the next step is to coat the entire body and undercarriage with rust proofing spray. Ensure your vehicle is dry before application.

The rust proofing technicians at Valvoline Express Care can handle the entire process.

Getting your car rust protected as early on as possible is highly recommended. Once rust and corrosion has begun to spread, it is difficult to curtail.

It is always advised to go with an experienced rust proofing professional, like the ones available at Valvoline Express Car Care Brampton.

It Doesn’t Pay to Skimp on Oil Changes

It Doesn’t Pay to Skimp on Oil Changes

by | Jul 24, 2019 | oil change brampton

If you believe you are saving money by avoiding regular oil changes for your vehicle, then you are sorely mistaken.

While bypassing oil changes may save you a bit of money short-term, it will definitely not save you any money (or headaches) in the long run.

Engine trouble is expensive to fix, and replacing your engine is something you probably don’t even want to think about. 

The good news is that engine issues can be avoided with regularly scheduled maintenance.

Oil Change Brampton

If you are in the market for dependable and efficient oil change services in Brampton and the surrounding area, then an ideal choice is Valvoline Express Care.

Regular visits to Valvoline Express Care will keep your vehicle operating at maximum performance while retaining its resale value.

Not only will you receive outstanding service, but your engine will also be the recipient of high-quality Valvoline motor oil.

Not all motor oils are of the same quality, so it is important to know what kind of oil you are putting in your car, and what kind of oil works best with your particular vehicle.

To make sure you are getting the right oil you need, let’s first take a look at what oil does for your automobile.

What Does Motor Oil Do?

Oil performs several functions in your vehicle to keep it running smoothly and effectively.

Some of the functions of motor oil are:

  • Providing necessary lubrication
  • Keeping the engine cool
  • Keeping the engine clean
  • Preventing rust and corrosion

Lubrication

One of the main functions of motor oil is to provide lubrication for all the working components of the engine. Since most of these components are made of metal, without oil these parts would be constantly grinding against each other.

Not only does metal on metal produce a horrifying sound, it also results in significant damage to those metal components.

Clean oil helps prevent engine damage and over-heating.

Keeping the Engine Cool

Reduced friction means reduced heat production. Clean oil reduces engine friction by carrying heat away from its components. 

Dirty oil has a less stream-lined flow and has difficulty doing the job it needs to do.

Preventing Rust and Corrosion

Rust is formed when metal is exposed to air and moisture for an extended period of time.

Oil helps prevent the formation of rust by not allowing these circumstances to occur. Well-lubricated metal parts of the engine will not have a chance to rust because water can not get to them.

What Motor Oil Is Right for Your Vehicle?

All vehicles are different and therefore require different types of oil. Motor oils vary in quality and ingredients.

The major distinction between motor oils can be demonstrated by dividing oils into two main categories:

  1. Conventional
  2. Synthetic

Conventional Motor Oil

Conventional motor oil is derived from petroleum, also known as crude oil. The process for making conventional motor oil is much less intensive than for synthetic oil.

Synthetic Motor Oil

Synthetic motor oil is refined and distilled to remove the impurities. This helps break the oil down to its base elements, so they can be manipulated to improve performance, protection, and longevity.

Synthetic motor oil not affords better performance for your engine, but it has other advantages as well.

Some of the benefits of synthetic motor oil include:

  • Maintaining a cleaner engine
  • Better protection against engine wear and tear
  • Better flow in cold temperatures
  • Better engine protection in high temperatures
  • Better viscosity

Valvoline Motor Oils

There is a wide selection of motor oils to choose from at Valvoline.

Some of the selections available are:

  • Premium Conventional Motor Oil
  • MaxLife High Mileage Synthetic Blend
  • SynPower Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Rust Proofing for Luxury Vehicles

Rust Proofing for Luxury Vehicles

by | Jun 25, 2019 | Rust Proofing Brampton

A lot of car owners that purchase luxury vehicles tend to think that high-end automobiles don’t need rust proofing services. In fact, many auto manufacturers and car dealers claim that new cars don’t require rust proofing at all.

However, if you are looking for optimal protection for your vehicle, this is simply not true. Yes, some brand new cars may come with the most basic level of rust proofing, but this protection needs to be maintained if it is to continue to be effective.

Luxury Car Rust Proofing Brampton

It seems to me that the more you have invested in your automobile, the more you would want to protect it and preserve that value.

In which case, rust proofing services are essential for luxury vehicles.

The expert technicians at Valvoline Express Car Care in Brampton can help you protect your investment with professional auto rust protection services.

Manufacturer Protection

A substantial number of luxury car manufacturers use galvanised steel on their car bodies to protect against rust and corrosion. Galvanised steel in encased with a layer of zinc to help guard against oxidation. Rust is formed when metal is exposed to water and moisture for extended periods. Zinc helps impede this process. Utilizing zinc was employed by manufacturers because its low cost.

While the use of galvanised steel does help in safeguarding against rust and corrosion, it does not make any vehicle indestructible. For example, rocks and debris from the road may fly up and contact your car while driving leaving scrapes and scratches. These blemishes can expose the metal components, leaving your car vulnerable to rust.

Similarly, if you get into a minor car accident, it can leave some of the areas on your car unprotected, again leaving it open and accessible to rust damage.

The same holds true for your paint job. All it takes is one tiny stone to fly up and chip your paint. One stone can expose the metal under the paint and up as a kickoff point for rust. Rust can spread quickly if left untreated, and it is not a reversible process.

Rust proofing provides an extra layer of protection to provide enhanced safety and peace of mind. Rest easy by safeguarding your vehicle at Valvoline Express Care.

Other Materials

Aside from galvanised steel, luxury car manufacturers are also using aluminum to offer better rust protection. Aluminum is a light-weight and dependable material for vehicle frames, which is also resistant to oxidation.

However, environmental elements and other outside factors can lead to complications.

Cost-Effective Option

The luxury car rust proofing services in Brampton, at Valvoline, really are a cost-effective choice for protecting your vehicle. Investing in rust protection can mean saving big money down the road in repairs and expensive mechanic bills.

Keep your car running at optimal performance by keeping it clean and rust-free.

This especially true in Canada’s extreme weather conditions, that can result in road salt getting stuck in the cracks of your car. Salt accelerates the rust process and needs to be removed as frequently as possible.

Bottom Line

Luxury car manufacturers are mainly focused on using galvanised steel and aluminum to increase rust resistance. While the use of these materials does help, it does not offer absolute protection.

Provide your vehicle with the ultimate protection against rust and corrosion with Valvoline Express Care’s rust proofing services.

When is a Good Time for an Oil Change?

When is a Good Time for an Oil Change?

by | Jun 10, 2019 | oil change

Anytime is a good time for an oil change. Oil is the driving force of your vehicle’s engine, and it needs to be kept fresh to maximize performance and prevent engine damage.

There are many aspects of routine maintenance that are required to keep your car in good working form. Regular oil changes may be the best thing you can do for your vehicle to keep it running smoothly, and to help preserve the value.

As luck would have it, oil changes are also one of the least expensive services you can have performed on your vehicle. Dishing out the affordable fee for a professional oil change is well worth the investment.

Without the investment of consistent oil changes, you are looking at paying a much higher expense down the road for repairs or even an engine replacement.

Also, by getting your oil changed at the recommended intervals, you will have the benefit of an automotive professional inspecting your vehicle for other potential problems.

When it comes to auto maintenance, preventative care is the best approach.

Oil Change Brampton

For drivers and car owners living in Brampton, and the neighboring areas around the GTA, Valvoline Express Care offers an assortment of services to keep your vehicle operating at optimal levels.

The expert automotive technicians at Valvoline Express Care specialize in oil changes, and many other services to help you avoid hefty mechanic bills and the deterioration of your vehicle.

You will have the option to choose one of the many quality motor oils available at Valvoline Express Care, depending on which one would be most effective for your vehicle.

When should you oil be changed?

The frequency of recommended oil changes depends on a couple different factors like the model and make of your vehicle, as well as the road and weather conditions you are driving in on a daily basis.

The general rule of thumb is to have your oil changed every 3000 – 5000 kms. Check the owner’s manual for your vehicle to find out more about routine maintenance.

The more often you have your oil changed, the more efficiently your car will run.

Why does your motor oil need to be changed?

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It is required to operate the engine, prevent it from overheating, and reduce excess friction from its many moving metal components.

Just as humans need blood to survive, vehicles need oil to perform.

However, unlike with humans, oil needs to be changed regularly because it becomes dirty and ineffective.

Over time oil begins to lose its viscosity, and therefore its lubricative properties. It also begins to build up with contaminants and sludge.

Not only that, the active additives in the oil are reduced and weakened as time goes on, leaving the oil ineffective.

Factors That Influence How Often Your Oil Should Be Changed

There are several factors that come into play that can help determine how often you should be getting your oil changed.

Some of these factors are:

  • Severe driving conditions
    • Extreme temperatures
      • Excessive heat and humidity
      • Temps dipping below the freezing point
    • Ice, snow, and slush
    • Road salt
  • Regularly driving in stop and go traffic with a lot of idling
    • Try to avoid quick acceleration and sudden stops
  • Routine repetition of short excursions of 5 km or less
  • Pulling a trailer or transporting other heavy items

These factors are what is known as severe driving conditions. They can affect how often your oil needs to be changed because your engine has to work harder if exposed to these elements on a continual basis.

Stop by Valvoline Express Care today for an oil change and routine check up.