Automotive Industry News & Information - Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust

Your drive belts are simple but integral components to the function of your car, truck, or SUV. At Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust in Buhl, belts are one of the first things we assess when looking over a vehicle, as they alone are in charge of operating your AC, water pump, alternator, and power steering.

Buying a used vehicle can be a risky endeavor, but also a rewarding one. Buying used, even if the vehicle is close to new, will save you a lot of money compared to the price of a new vehicle off the lot. However, there are some inherent risks that come with purchasing a used vehicle; here is how to best avoid trouble.

mechanic holding a clipboard with a checklist

Whether we’re talking about your engine, transmission, differential, suspension, or otherwise, correct specifications are necessary to keep your car, truck, or SUV reliable, drivable, and running smoothly. From our team here at Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust in Buhl, ID, here’s what you need to know.

There may come a day when you go to shift your vehicle out of “Park”, and the shifter refuses to move. Perhaps you are already experiencing this issue intermittently, or currently have a vehicle stuck in park. While this is a serious inconvenience, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious problem; let Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust in Buhl, ID put your mind at ease.

Your vehicle's cooling system is one of the most important systems in your vehicle. Inside your engine, spark plugs ignite the fuel within the cylinders to produce small explosions that propel your vehicle down the road. With small explosions comes scorching temperatures that can destroy your engine if not controlled. There are two types of cooling systems - liquid-cooled and air-cooled.

A good technician will give your car a quick inspection whenever you have maintenance performed. Fluid levels, tire condition, dashboard lights, and a variety of other items typically are briefly explored whenever you bring your vehicle in for maintenance. At Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust in Buhl, we're good at noticing things that need repair, but the fact of the matter is that only you know your car. You know when your car feels off when its been serviced last (or that it hasn't been serviced at all,) and have at least some vague idea of what’s going on with your vehicle day to day. Here are some questions you can ask us next time you come by the shop;

Coolant flushes are particularly important. No matter what type of car, truck, or SUV you drive, your cooling system is an essential aspect of maintaining the reliability of your vehicle.

Here are 10 steps to keep your car up and running from our team here at Cowden's Automotive & Exhaust! Whether you choose to do the maintenance yourself or take your car to see our professional service technicians, the non-profit Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your vehicle running its best.