Safety Tips and Tools for Roadside Emergencies

When it comes to a roadside emergency, you can have a few things on hand to make the situation more manageable. Here at Reynolds Collision Center, we also recommend some additional precautions.

Whether changing a flat tire or waiting for a tow truck, it is vital that you have some type of hazard signal on. If you can, pull off the road, and turn on your hazard lights. In many situations, the flashing lights will be enough to warn oncoming drivers. The lights also help the tow truck driver spot you.

 

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What Drivers Need to Know About Windshield Chip Repairs

Although a few small chips in your vehicle's windshield may seem like a minor issue, Reynolds Collision Center would like to remind Orange, VA motorists that ignoring those chips is quite hazardous. From decreasing visibility to eventually becoming larger cracks, windshield chips are far more problematic than many drivers realize.

We recommend only letting a qualified technician examine and repair the chips on your vehicle's windshield. The technician will first observe the size and nature of the windshield chip, in addition to any debris that might be around the affected area. 

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How to Avoid Hydroplaning

For every person that enjoys driving in the rain, you’ll probably find one that finds it stressful and doesn’t like it at all. One of the scariest things that can result from driving on wet roads is hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is when the vehicle lifts up because the tires are gliding on the film of the water rather than on the road. Hydroplaning can be very dangerous and can even cause an accident. Here are some ways you can avoid hydroplaning.

  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition. Bad tires are the main factor contributing…
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Regular Alignment Can Protect Your Tires, Your Vehicle, and You

Tires can become misaligned from regular use or if you accidentally hit a pot hole or a curb. You may have heard that aligning your tires is important, but do you know why? There are a few potential problems that could arise when your tires aren't lined up properly.

Your tires could begin to wear down unevenly. This can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, and it can also cause a vibration in your steering wheel. In addition, tires that are worn down unevenly may make more road noise when traveling around Orange. Your safety is a concern, too. 

 

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Avoiding a Tire Blowout

No one wants to have a tire blowout while they're driving. It's a terrifying experience that can cause accidents and even fatalities. Below are the steps that you can take to avoid having a tire blowout.

- Check your tire pressure regularly. This is one of the most important things that you can do to avoid a tire blowout.

- Inspect your tires for any signs of wear and tear. If you see anything that looks damaged, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

- Avoid driving on rough roads whenever possible. Potholes, sharp objects, and other debris can…

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How do brake pads work?

The brakes on your car are essential for stopping the vehicle. They work by using friction to slow the car down. The brake pads are the parts of the brakes that create this friction.

The brake pads are made of a special material that is designed to withstand high levels of friction. When you press down on the brake pedal, the brake pads are forced against the rotors. The rotors are metal discs that are attached to the wheels. The friction between the brake pads and the rotors slows the wheels down, and this slows the car down.

 

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What is a timing belt?

A timing belt is a belt that is used to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft in an engine. The timing belt is responsible for ensuring that the valves open and close at the correct intervals. If the timing belt fails, it can cause extensive damage to the engine.

A timing belt is typically made of rubber and is reinforced with Kevlar or other strong materials. The teeth on the inside of the belt mesh with the grooves on the pulleys to keep everything in sync. Over time, timing belts can stretch and wear out, which can cause…

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How to Understand Tire Sizes

In order to understand how to read tire sizes, it is first important to know what each tire size number and letter represents. The tire size can be found on the sidewall of the tire, and usually looks something like this: P215/75R15. The "P" at the beginning of the tire size stands for "passenger car."

The number that follows is the width of the tire in millimeters. The next number is the height of the tire, expressed as a percentage of the width. The "R" in the tire size means that the tire is a radial tire. The final…

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Why Do You Need To Rotate Your Tires?

Your tires may be the most important aspect of your vehicle's ability to drive in a stable and secure fashion. Keeping them in optimal condition requires that you perform regular tire rotations. Here at Reynolds Collision Center, we are going to go over the process of tire rotations and why they are so important.

Regardless of the driving conditions in Orange, VA, all tires have a definitive lifespan. Wear-and-tear is an inevitable part of driving, and the degree of this damage dictates how often you need to replace your tires.

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Road Trip Safety: How to Have a Safe Road Trip

Summer is the time for road trips! Whether you're going across the country or just to the next town over, there are a few things you can do to make sure your trip is safe.

Before you hit the road, there are a few things you should do to prepare. First, check your vehicle to make sure it is in good working condition. This means checking the tires, brakes, and fluids. You should also pack an emergency kit with supplies like food, water, and a first-aid kit. It's also a good idea to map out your route in…

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