Towing Through Time: The Evolution of the Tow Truck

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Origins of a Lifesaving Vehicle

Let’s take a trip back to 1916, Chattanooga, Tennessee – a time when a Ford Model T took an unexpected plunge into a nearby creek. Among the curious onlookers was Ernest Holmes, Sr., a local mechanic with a knack for innovation. Watching the struggle to extract the car using nothing but ropes and manpower, Holmes had an epiphany – there had to be a better way.

Back at his workshop, armed with determination and a 1913 Cadillac chassis, Holmes set to work. With a few tweaks, he created the world’s first tow truck. It was rough around the edges, but it got the job done. Holmes rigged up a chain and pulley system, and just like that, the era of towing and recovery was born.

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Navigating the Road: “Braking” Down ABS, ECS, and Traction Control for Safer Driving

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In the complex world of modern automobiles, the evolution of braking systems has given rise to advanced technologies to enhance safety and control. This trio, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ECS), and Traction Control works together to form a safety powerhouse. ABS ensures your braking is precise, ECS keeps your car stable during maneuvers, and Traction Control prevents wheel spin. In this blog, we will unravel the inner workings of these systems and how each keeps you safe on the road.

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The Heartbeat of Your Car: Exploring Different Types of Common Car Batteries

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In this blog, we will dive into the often-underestimated world of car batteries, revealing their significance as one of your vehicle’s most essential components. Think of them as the heartbeat of your car, providing the electrical energy necessary to start your engine and power various systems. Today, we’re going to dive into the world of car batteries, exploring the most common types available, deciphering the mysterious CC rating, and discussing how long you can expect each battery type to last.

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The Origins of Well-Known Car Phrases and Sayings

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Have you ever been called a backseat driver or yelled “shotgun” when claiming the passenger seat? We all may have wondered where famous car-related words and phrases come from. We’re here to debunk the backstory of some common idioms and expressions you might hear more often than you think! Let’s take a drive through a list of commonly used car idioms and expressions and origins.

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How Often Should You Have Your Brake System Inspected?

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When it comes to vehicle safety, few components are as critical as the brake system. A well-maintained brake system not only enhances the performance and longevity of your car but also safeguards the lives of you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. At Luke’s Auto Service, our top priority is keeping our customers safe on the road, which is why we emphasize the significance of performing regular brake system inspections. In this blog post, we will provide insights into how often you should inspect your brake system to keep you and your vehicle safe.

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Cracking the Code: 4 Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light is On

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If you’ve ever been driving and suddenly noticed the check engine light (CEL) illuminate on your dashboard, you know how nerve-wracking it can be. But don’t panic! The good news is that the CEL can signal a wide range of issues, some of which are minor and easy to fix. Just a reminder! If the check engine light is blinking, the computer is detecting a misfire. This would mean your vehicle needs immediate attention! If the check engine light is just glowing with no drivability issues, it is okay to drive until you can come in for a service. 

At Luke’s Auto Service, our team of automobile experts has the latest diagnostics equipment to quickly and easily determine why your CEL is on and what needs to be done to resolve it.

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Braking News: The Importance of Changing Your Brake Fluid

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At Luke’s Auto Service, the safety of our customers is our top priority. Your brakes are one of the most critical components of your vehicle’s safety system. We have previously talked about how there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” when it comes to brake pads and rotors in our “Breaking Down” The Basic Facts on Brakes blog. But one often overlooked aspect of brake maintenance is the brake fluid. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how often you need to change your brake fluid and why it’s essential.

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Breaking Down the Drivetrain: Understanding the Differences between AWD, FWD, 4WD, and RWD

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When it comes to choosing a car, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is which type of drivetrain to go for. There are four main types of drivetrains available: all-wheel drive (AWD), front-wheel drive (FWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), and rear-wheel drive (RWD). Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and which one is best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between each type of drivetrain to help you make an informed decision!

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Show Your Car Some Love This Valentine’s Day: Vehicle Maintenance Tips

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As winter slowly begins to fade and we look forward to spring, it’s essential to be prepared for any late-season storms that may come our way. Regular maintenance, upkeep, and essential services are the key to safeguarding your vehicle and keeping it in top shape, just like a healthy heart is vital for a human body. If we think of your car as a human body, the axles and wheels would be its arms, legs, hands, and feet, the transmission its brain, and the engine its heart and soul. A smoothly running engine, like a healthy heart, is the source of power and energy for everything within your vehicle. By keeping your engine well-maintained, you’ll ensure a reliable and safe ride for years to come.

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Why Does My Engine Squeal When I Turn My Vehicle On?

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Have you ever gotten into your car and as soon as you start the engine you notice a high-pitched squeal then when you accelerate or make a turn it gets louder? What is the cause of this?

The most common cause of a squealing engine is a bad or failing serpentine belt – also known as the drive belt. The belt is under your hood and wraps around multiple pulleys. It connects the crankshaft to other systems including the alternator, power steering pump, AC, and water pump. When the serpentine belt stops working so do these systems. In this article, we will outline reasons your serpentine belt may be squealing and how to tell if your serpentine belt needs replacing.

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