The Best Family Owned & Operated Auto Care Centers in Buford and Cumming

How to Help Prevent 4 Common Cold Weather Battery Issues: Essential Tips for Reliable Performance Cold weather can put your vehicle’s battery to the ultimate test. As temperatures drop, your battery’s performance can be significantly impacted, leaving you stranded when you least expect it. Knowing how to prevent common cold weather battery issues is crucial to keeping your car starting and running smoothly all winter long. Why Does Cold Weather Affect Your Battery? Cold weather slows the chemical reactions inside your car’s battery, reducing its ability to generate power. Add thicker engine oil to the mix, and your battery works even harder to get your vehicle started on those frigid mornings. The good news? A little proactive care can make a big difference. Regularly checking your battery’s health, ensuring clean and secure connections, and keeping it fully charged are key steps to preventing winter breakdowns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we care about your safety and convenience. Here are essential tips to ensure your battery delivers reliable performance during the cold months. Key Tips for Maintaining Battery Health This Winter 1. Inspect and Test Your Battery Regularly Perform monthly visual checks to spot signs of corrosion, wear, or loose connections. Corroded terminals and damaged cables can severely impact performance, especially in colder temperatures. Voltage Testing: Use a multimeter to check your battery’s charge. A healthy battery should read 12.6 volts when fully charged. Pro Tip: Test your battery under load (while operating) to identify weak cells before they fail. If your battery is several years old, consider replacing it proactively to avoid unexpected breakdowns. 2. Follow Smart Charging Practices Cold weather drains batteries faster, so keeping them charged is essential. Invest in a smart charger that prevents overcharging and ensures your battery remains in peak condition. Never attempt to charge a frozen battery—it can lead to ruptures or even explosions. Warm the battery safely to room temperature before charging. 3. Protect Your Battery with Insulation Insulation is your battery’s best friend in winter. Battery Blankets: Electrically powered wraps keep your battery warm and operational, even in sub-zero temperatures. Insulation Sleeves: Foam or rubber sleeves add a layer of protection against extreme cold and physical damage. Proper insulation reduces the risk of freezing, keeping your battery ready for action no matter the weather. Simple Preventive Measures to Boost Battery Performance Strategic Parking Tips Where and how you park your vehicle can make a surprising difference during cold weather. Garage It : Always aim to park in a garage or covered area to shield your vehicle from harsh elements. Facing East: If outdoor parking is unavoidable, park your car facing the east to let the morning sun naturally warm up the engine. Use a Car Cover: A car cover limits exposure to snow and ice, maintaining a stable temperature for your battery and engine. Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues Jump-Starting 101 If your battery dies, jump-starting it can get you back on the road quickly: Park a working vehicle close to the dead one (without the cars touching). Connect jumper cables: Positive to positive (+) and negative (-) to a metal surface on the engine block of the dead car. Start the working vehicle, let it run for a few minutes, then start the dead vehicle. Pro Tip: Always disconnect the cables in reverse order and avoid contact with moving parts. Regular maintenance can help prevent these situations altogether. When to Seek Professional Help If your battery consistently underperforms or won’t hold a charge, it’s time to visit Team Ryan Automotive. Warning signs like flickering lights or clicking sounds during ignition may indicate deeper electrical or charging system issues, such as a failing alternator. Our experts perform comprehensive diagnostic and testing procedures to find and resolve issues, ensuring your vehicle stays reliable. Stay Ahead with Team Ryan Automotive Don’t let cold weather catch you off guard. At Team Ryan Automotive, we offer professional battery inspections, testing, and replacement services to keep your vehicle winter-ready. From identifying early warning signs to delivering expert solutions, we’re here to help. Schedule your winter vehicle checkup today and drive with confidence this season!

Spread Holiday Cheer with Team Ryan Automotive and Toys for Tots! The holiday season is here, and at Team Ryan Automotive , we’re excited to support Toys for Tots once again. This heartwarming initiative brings joy to children in need, and we couldn’t do it without our incredible customers—like you! This year, we’re making it easier than ever for you to join in and make a difference. As one of our VIP customers, you’re eligible for an exclusive offer that lets you give back while saving on your next service. Here’s How You Can Help Step 1: Donate a Toy There are two simple ways to contribute: Bring a Toy : Bring a new, unwrapped toy valued at $25 or more to our shop. Shop Online : Purchase a toy from our Amazon Wish List and have it shipped directly to us. Be sure to show us your receipt when you come in for your service! Your generosity helps make the season magical for kids in need. Step 2: Schedule Your Service Once you’ve donated your toy, book your service appointment with us before December 19, 2024, to redeem your exclusive $25 discount! 👉 Schedule Your Service Here Why We Love Toys for Tots Toys for Tots is a nonprofit organization that has been spreading holiday joy for decades. Their mission is to provide new toys to children from economically disadvantaged families, ensuring that every child experiences the joy of Christmas. Important Details This exclusive offer is valid for one-time use only and cannot be combined with any other promotions. The $25 discount cannot be applied to tires or batteries. The deadline to donate and schedule your service is December 19, 2024 . Let’s Make a Difference Together We’re honored to partner with our customers to support Toys for Tots and bring joy to children during the holiday season. Your generosity and support truly make all the difference. Ready to spread holiday cheer?  Thank you for being part of our Team Ryan Automotive family. Together, we can make this season brighter for kids who need it most.

7 essential car care tips from Team Ryan! Learn how to keep your vehicle running smoothly, avoid costly repairs, and stay safe on the road.

Can You Tell If Your Car Needs an Alignment? Here Are Four Quick Ways to Know! Let’s talk about wheel alignments! While it might not seem as crucial as your car’s engine or transmission, a proper wheel alignment is key to the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Misalignment can cause premature wear and tear on your tires and suspension components, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions. The good news is we are here to help with all your alignment needs! Let’s walk through four quick ways to tell if your car needs a 4-wheel alignment . 1. Pulling to One Side While Beyoncé’s “To the Left” might be a great song, your car pulling to the left (or right) isn’t something you want. A well-aligned car should drive straight when your steering wheel is centered. To test this, drive slowly in a safe, vacant parking lot and briefly release the steering wheel. If your car veers off-course, it’s likely time to schedule an alignment . 2. Noises and Shaking Your car communicates with you through sounds and sensations. If you hear unusual noises or feel vibrations, it’s often an indication something is wrong. Here’s how alignment issues could be causing these problems: Screeching during turns : Misaligned tires aren’t working together properly, which may cause one to drag across the pavement during a turn, producing a screeching sound. Shaking steering wheel : If your steering wheel vibrates, especially at higher speeds, your tires may be misaligned (or out of balance) and pulling in different directions. Both of these are red flags and should be checked out quickly to avoid further issues. 3. Uneven Tire Wear Tires should wear evenly if your car is properly aligned. If you notice uneven wear on your tires, it’s time to take a closer look. Here are some key signs to watch for: Camber wear : Excess wear on the inner or outer edges of the tire that is very smooth to the look and touch if you were to rub your hand across the shoulder or edge of the tire. Feathering : Treads that are smooth on one side but sharp on the other, usually caused by poor toe alignment. Heel/toe wear : One side of the tread wears down more quickly, often due to under-inflation, but can also indicate alignment issues. Checking your tires regularly can help catch misalignment early. If you notice any of these wear patterns, consider having your wheel alignment checked and/or your tires serviced. 4. Crooked Steering Wheel If your steering wheel doesn’t stay centered even when driving straight, that’s another telltale sign of misalignment. This happens when your wheels are not aligned correctly, causing your steering to be off-center. For your safety and the longevity of your tires, it’s crucial to address this as soon as possible. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule an appointment.

Tire Cupping: Causes and Signs Tire cupping is a specific type of tire wear that you definitely want to avoid. Bridgestone Tires describes it like this: “Tire cupping can appear as if someone took an ice cream scoop and scooped out part of the tread every three to four inches around the circumference.” Can you picture a perfect scoop of ice cream? Now imagine what the bucket looks like after that scoop is gone—there’s an empty depression where the scoop was. That’s pretty much what tire cupping looks like on your tires. Unfortunately, unlike ice cream, tire cupping is far from a treat. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to more serious (and expensive) vehicle repairs. What Causes Tire Cupping? Tire cupping can be caused by several factors. The most common causes are misaligned or unbalanced tires, worn suspension, or lower-quality tires. 1. Misaligned or Unbalanced Tires Misaligned tires don’t make even contact with the road, which causes uneven stress that can lead to tire cupping. Unbalanced tires can also cause certain parts of the tire to hit the road harder than others, which can create cupping over time. Consider a wheel alignment or a tire balance service to address this issue. 2. Worn Suspension A worn suspension system or individual steering/suspension components causes your tires to bounce slightly as you drive. This creates uneven points of contact between the tires and the road, which is another reason for tire cupping. 3. Lower Quality Tires Lower-quality tires are more prone to cupping because they may not be built to withstand the stresses of regular driving as well as higher-quality tires. If you notice this wear, it’s a good idea to consult with one of our TRA representatives about our tire services . Why Is Tire Cupping So Bad? Tires are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. Worn or cupped tires can reduce traction and overall vehicle handling, increasing the risk of tire failure, suspension component wear and also leads to an overall reduced driving experience for you! If you notice any signs of tire cupping, it’s essential to address the issue right away to avoid more significant problems down the road. What Are the Signs of Tire Cupping? There are several warning signs of tire cupping. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by a professional. 1. Vibrating or Shaking If your steering wheel vibrates or shakes while driving, your tires may be unbalanced, which can cause tire cupping. Vibrations in both the seat and steering wheel can indicate unbalanced front and rear tires, so it’s important to get this checked out immediately. 2. Tire Noise If your tires are making unusual noise, it’s a good rule of thumb to get them inspected. Cupping can cause increased noise as the irregular tread makes uneven contact with the road. 3. Veering If your car veers to the left or right while driving, it’s often a sign of misalignment, which can lead to tire cupping. Misaligned tires put uneven pressure on certain parts of the tread, causing irregular wear. You may need a wheel alignment to fix the problem. 4. Visible Signs of Cupping The most obvious sign of tire cupping is the physical appearance of the tires. As mentioned earlier, cupping looks like someone scooped out chunks of the tire tread. If you see this, consider getting a tire replacement through our tire services as soon as possible to prevent further damage or safety hazards. If you’re experiencing any of these signs or suspect tire cupping, don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit us at Team Ryan Automotive . We’ll help get your tires back in top shape and ensure your car is safe to drive!

How Long Can I Drive on a Spare Tire? We’ve all been there—driving along when suddenly you hear that dreaded flapping sound of a flat tire. Whether you're a pro at changing tires or not, having a spare tire is always a lifesaver on those not-so-great days. Once the spare is on, you’re back on the road, but it’s important to remember that spare tires are not permanent solutions. So, how long can you actually drive on a spare tire? Let’s break it down, because it depends on the type of spare tire you have. A Space-Saver Spare Tire (or Donut) If you’ve noticed that your spare tire is smaller than your regular tires, you likely have a space-saver spare, often called a "donut." These smaller spares are designed to save space in your car, which allows manufacturers to build more compact vehicles. While space-saver tires are great for emergencies, they are not designed for long-term use. They typically have almost no tread, making them hazardous for extended driving. Here’s a general rule of thumb: Don't drive more than 70 miles on a space-saver tire. Don’t exceed 50 mph while driving with it. Always check your owner’s manual after installing a space-saver spare for exact details.  In most cases, it’s best to avoid highways and interstates when driving on a space-saver tire, as higher speeds and long distances increase the risk of failure. While they’re convenient in a pinch, it’s crucial to get a full-size tire installed as soon as possible. A Full-Size Spare Tire Unlike space-saver tires, a full-size spare tire is the same size as your regular tires, offering more durability and the ability to drive longer distances. These are not common in compact cars due to the extra space they take up, but they provide much more peace of mind if you get a flat. You can typically drive on a full-size spare just as you would with your normal tires, but keep in mind it’s probably not from the same manufacturer as your other tires. This could mean the tire handles slightly differently. While a full-size spare can buy you more time, we still recommend replacing it with a matching tire as soon as possible to ensure optimal handling and safety. Have Auto Care Questions? Ask our experts at Team Ryan Automotive . Need to Schedule Your Vehicle Service? Make an appointment with us today!

Are Spark Plugs Really Important? Let’s be honest. When we start our cars, we hardly think about what actually makes it go. Maybe we think of the battery or the starter, and occasionally the engine crosses our mind. But spark plugs? They’re usually the last thing we consider. However, despite their small size, spark plugs play a crucial role in your engine’s performance and overall longevity. Let’s take a closer look at why spark plugs are essential for your car’s safety and performance. How Do Spark Plugs Work? To truly understand the importance of spark plugs, it helps to know how they function. Your vehicle’s engine is complex, but its main job is simple: it converts energy (gasoline) into motion. This process is called internal combustion , where your engine transforms potential energy into kinetic energy, or motion. Your car’s ability to move hinges on this process. Now, here’s where spark plugs come in. They supply the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in your engine’s cylinders, creating a small explosion that powers your engine. Without spark plugs, your engine wouldn't be able to produce the power it needs to move. Since spark plugs are constantly exposed to intense heat and pressure, they’re built to be durable. However, they do wear out over time and need to be replaced to prevent engine misfires or even failure. If you're noticing performance issues, consider our engine diagnostics to identify and resolve any underlying problems. When Should Spark Plugs Be Replaced? Like many parts of your car, the timing for replacing spark plugs depends on your vehicle and the type of spark plugs it uses. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Extended-life spark plugs (usually made of platinum or iridium) last up to 100,000 miles. Standard spark plugs (usually made of copper) may need to be replaced every 30,000 miles, depending on their material. Regardless of the type, it’s crucial not to exceed the recommended mileage for spark plug replacement. Ignoring this can lead to reduced engine performance or costly repairs. To stay on top of maintenance, check out our auto maintenance services . What Spark Plugs Should I Use? When replacing your spark plugs, the best approach is to use the same brand and type your car originally came with. Platinum and iridium spark plugs : These tend to last longer and cost more. Copper spark plugs : These are more affordable but have a shorter lifespan. If you're unsure which type to choose, a trusted Repair Center can help you determine what’s best for your vehicle. We want to help keep you and your family safe on the road. Let’s be proactive rather than reactive! If you need assistance figuring out when your spark plugs need to be replaced, don’t hesitate to reach out to the auto experts at Team Ryan Automotive. Schedule your appointment online here .

What Is a Timing Belt and When Is It Time for a Replacement? When it comes to car maintenance, some tasks—like oil changes—get all the attention. But other important maintenance items, like replacing your timing belt, often fly under the radar. Many car owners aren’t even sure what a timing belt is or when it needs replacing. Don’t worry! We’re here to break it down for you. What Is a Timing Belt? Simply put, a timing belt is essential to your engine’s functionality. It synchronizes the rotation of the engine’s camshaft and crankshaft, ensuring that each cylinder fires at the right time. To make it easier: imagine the timing belt like the chain on a bicycle. If the chain breaks or becomes loose, the bike won’t move. The same is true for your car—the timing belt keeps all the internal parts of your engine working in sync. Needless to say, it’s crucial to keep your timing belt in good shape. When to Replace Your Timing Belt? Every car is different, but as a general rule, most manufacturers recommend replacing your timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or 6 – 8 years regardless of mileage. However, there are some warning signs that could indicate your timing belt is failing: 1. Engine Won’t Start There are several reasons why your engine might not start, but a broken or worn timing belt could be one of them. Timing belts are made of rubber with teeth, and if the belt breaks or the teeth wear down, they can no longer grip the gears, stopping your engine from turning over. If your engine won’t start, bring it to Team Ryan Automotive , and we’ll diagnose the issue. 2. Squealing Sounds Squealing sounds are never normal, and if they occur while accelerating, braking, or idling, they could indicate a failing timing belt. If this happens, the sooner you replace the timing belt, the better it will be for both your car and your wallet. 3. Engine Misfiring A failing timing belt can cause your engine to misfire because the belt controls the timing of the engine. If the timing is off, the engine may misfire, which can cause serious engine damage. If you notice misfiring, visit our auto maintenance services to prevent further damage. 4. Ticking or Clicking Sounds If you hear ticking or clicking sounds coming from your engine, it could be a sign that the timing belt is failing. It might also indicate low oil pressure, which can affect your timing belt’s performance. Don’t wait—get your car checked by our experts at Team Ryan Automotive . Schedule Your Timing Belt Inspection Today! If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule an appointment . We’re here to help with all your car repair and maintenance needs, including timing belt replacements and inspections. At Team Ryan Automotive , we’ll ensure your car stays in top shape!

Squeaky Brakes: What Do They Mean? Have you noticed a squeak when you hit the brakes? Don’t panic—squeaky brakes don’t always mean your brake pads need to be replaced. Let's explore what could be causing that sound and when it’s time to take action. Should Brake Pads Make Noise? If your brake pads are a little squeaky, it’s not necessarily a cause for concern. Your brakes will still function properly. However, it’s important to stay aware of what’s causing the noise to ensure it doesn’t indicate a larger problem. One common reason for squeaky brakes is moisture. Have you ever noticed your brakes squeaking after a rainy or dewy morning? That’s perfectly normal. Moisture causes a thin layer of rust to form on the rotors, which may lead to some noise until the rust wears off after a few stops. Another cause of squeaky brakes is the material of the brake pads. Modern brake pads are often made from ceramic, which can cause a bit of noise when interacting with cast iron rotors. While this sound can be normal, semi-metallic brake pads tend to be quieter, which is a great alternative if the noise bothers you. The Difference Between Abnormal and Normal Brake Noises When it comes to brakes, it’s important to be cautious. There’s a big difference between normal and abnormal brake noises. For example, the noise caused by moisture, which goes away after a few stops, is completely normal. However, if the noise persists, it’s time to investigate further. Signs of Abnormal Brake Noises: Grinding: If you hear a grinding noise (metal-on-metal), it’s a clear sign that your brake pads may be completely worn down. If you experience this, visit Team Ryan Automotive for our brake repair service immediately. Vibrations: If squeaking is accompanied by vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when applying the brakes, or if you notice a burning smell near your tires, it could indicate serious brake or tire issues. It’s important to get both your brakes and tires inspected. Brake Warning Light : If your brake warning light flashes, it’s crucial to schedule a brake repair inspection right away. If you experience any of these abnormal brake noises or signs, visit Team Ryan Automotive for a thorough inspection. Free Brake Inspection with Every Oil Change Here’s a helpful tip: Did you know we include a free brake inspection with every oil change ? This added service ensures that your brakes are always in optimal condition. If you’ve noticed squeaky brakes or any signs of trouble, contact us online or schedule an appointment with Team Ryan Automotive. We also recommend considering wheel alignment or auto maintenance services to keep your vehicle in top shape.

How to Help Prevent 4 Common Cold Weather Battery Issues: Essential Tips for Reliable Performance Cold weather can put your vehicle’s battery to the ultimate test. As temperatures drop, your battery’s performance can be significantly impacted, leaving you stranded when you least expect it. Knowing how to prevent common cold weather battery issues is crucial to keeping your car starting and running smoothly all winter long. Why Does Cold Weather Affect Your Battery? Cold weather slows the chemical reactions inside your car’s battery, reducing its ability to generate power. Add thicker engine oil to the mix, and your battery works even harder to get your vehicle started on those frigid mornings. The good news? A little proactive care can make a big difference. Regularly checking your battery’s health, ensuring clean and secure connections, and keeping it fully charged are key steps to preventing winter breakdowns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we care about your safety and convenience. Here are essential tips to ensure your battery delivers reliable performance during the cold months. Key Tips for Maintaining Battery Health This Winter 1. Inspect and Test Your Battery Regularly Perform monthly visual checks to spot signs of corrosion, wear, or loose connections. Corroded terminals and damaged cables can severely impact performance, especially in colder temperatures. Voltage Testing: Use a multimeter to check your battery’s charge. A healthy battery should read 12.6 volts when fully charged. Pro Tip: Test your battery under load (while operating) to identify weak cells before they fail. If your battery is several years old, consider replacing it proactively to avoid unexpected breakdowns. 2. Follow Smart Charging Practices Cold weather drains batteries faster, so keeping them charged is essential. Invest in a smart charger that prevents overcharging and ensures your battery remains in peak condition. Never attempt to charge a frozen battery—it can lead to ruptures or even explosions. Warm the battery safely to room temperature before charging. 3. Protect Your Battery with Insulation Insulation is your battery’s best friend in winter. Battery Blankets: Electrically powered wraps keep your battery warm and operational, even in sub-zero temperatures. Insulation Sleeves: Foam or rubber sleeves add a layer of protection against extreme cold and physical damage. Proper insulation reduces the risk of freezing, keeping your battery ready for action no matter the weather. Simple Preventive Measures to Boost Battery Performance Strategic Parking Tips Where and how you park your vehicle can make a surprising difference during cold weather. Garage It : Always aim to park in a garage or covered area to shield your vehicle from harsh elements. Facing East: If outdoor parking is unavoidable, park your car facing the east to let the morning sun naturally warm up the engine. Use a Car Cover: A car cover limits exposure to snow and ice, maintaining a stable temperature for your battery and engine. Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues Jump-Starting 101 If your battery dies, jump-starting it can get you back on the road quickly: Park a working vehicle close to the dead one (without the cars touching). Connect jumper cables: Positive to positive (+) and negative (-) to a metal surface on the engine block of the dead car. Start the working vehicle, let it run for a few minutes, then start the dead vehicle. Pro Tip: Always disconnect the cables in reverse order and avoid contact with moving parts. Regular maintenance can help prevent these situations altogether. When to Seek Professional Help If your battery consistently underperforms or won’t hold a charge, it’s time to visit Team Ryan Automotive. Warning signs like flickering lights or clicking sounds during ignition may indicate deeper electrical or charging system issues, such as a failing alternator. Our experts perform comprehensive diagnostic and testing procedures to find and resolve issues, ensuring your vehicle stays reliable. Stay Ahead with Team Ryan Automotive Don’t let cold weather catch you off guard. At Team Ryan Automotive, we offer professional battery inspections, testing, and replacement services to keep your vehicle winter-ready. From identifying early warning signs to delivering expert solutions, we’re here to help. Schedule your winter vehicle checkup today and drive with confidence this season!

Spread Holiday Cheer with Team Ryan Automotive and Toys for Tots! The holiday season is here, and at Team Ryan Automotive , we’re excited to support Toys for Tots once again. This heartwarming initiative brings joy to children in need, and we couldn’t do it without our incredible customers—like you! This year, we’re making it easier than ever for you to join in and make a difference. As one of our VIP customers, you’re eligible for an exclusive offer that lets you give back while saving on your next service. Here’s How You Can Help Step 1: Donate a Toy There are two simple ways to contribute: Bring a Toy : Bring a new, unwrapped toy valued at $25 or more to our shop. Shop Online : Purchase a toy from our Amazon Wish List and have it shipped directly to us. Be sure to show us your receipt when you come in for your service! Your generosity helps make the season magical for kids in need. Step 2: Schedule Your Service Once you’ve donated your toy, book your service appointment with us before December 19, 2024, to redeem your exclusive $25 discount! 👉 Schedule Your Service Here Why We Love Toys for Tots Toys for Tots is a nonprofit organization that has been spreading holiday joy for decades. Their mission is to provide new toys to children from economically disadvantaged families, ensuring that every child experiences the joy of Christmas. Important Details This exclusive offer is valid for one-time use only and cannot be combined with any other promotions. The $25 discount cannot be applied to tires or batteries. The deadline to donate and schedule your service is December 19, 2024 . Let’s Make a Difference Together We’re honored to partner with our customers to support Toys for Tots and bring joy to children during the holiday season. Your generosity and support truly make all the difference. Ready to spread holiday cheer?  Thank you for being part of our Team Ryan Automotive family. Together, we can make this season brighter for kids who need it most.