Duda Blog Import

Get to Know Your Vehicle: You Don't Have to Be a Mechanic to Protect Your Car

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Most drivers assume they need to understand engines, transmissions, or complicated diagnostics to take good care of their vehicle. The truth is, you don't have to be a mechanic to catch problems early. One of the best tools you have is something you already use every day—your own senses.

At Frontline Automotive in Fairbanks, AK, we often hear customers say, "I knew something didn't seem right, but I wasn't sure if it was worth bringing in."

Our answer is almost always the same: if something feels different, it's worth having it checked. You're the person who drives your vehicle every day, so you're often the first to notice when something changes.

Listen to What Your Vehicle Is Telling You

Your vehicle will often give you warning signs before a major problem develops.

Pay attention if you notice:

New squeaks, clunks, rattles, or grinding noises
Vibrations that weren't there before
A change in how your engine sounds
Squealing or grinding when you apply the brakes

These symptoms may seem minor at first, but they can indicate worn components that are much less expensive to repair when addressed early.

Pay Attention to How It Drives

Even if you can't identify the cause, you'll usually notice when your vehicle doesn't drive the way it used to.

Ask yourself:

Does it pull to one side while driving?
Does the steering feel loose or unusually stiff?
Do the brakes feel softer, harder, or less responsive?
Does the vehicle shake at highway speeds?

Changes like these can point to wheel alignment issues, suspension wear, tire problems, or brake system concerns. Catching these issues early can help prevent additional wear and improve your safety on the road.

Take a Quick Walk Around Your Vehicle

One of the easiest maintenance habits takes less than 30 seconds.

Before you drive away, take a quick look around your vehicle and glance at the ground where it was parked.

Watch for signs of:

A small leak today can become a major repair tomorrow if it's left unchecked.

Check Your Tires Regularly

Your tires are one of the most important safety components on your vehicle.

Every few weeks, take a moment to inspect them.

Look for:

Low tread depth
Uneven tire wear
Low tire pressure
Nails, cuts, or other visible damage

Uneven tire wear is often more than just a tire issue—it can be an early sign of alignment or suspension problems.

Planning a Road Trip?

Whether you're heading out for a family vacation, traveling the Alaska Highway, or simply driving farther than usual, scheduling a pre-trip inspection is one of the smartest things you can do.

A professional inspection can identify small problems before they become roadside emergencies, giving you confidence before you leave Fairbanks.

Our team will inspect the major systems of your vehicle to help ensure it's ready for the miles ahead.

Trust Your Instincts

You don't have to know exactly what's wrong with your vehicle—you simply have to recognize when something doesn't seem right.

At Frontline Automotive, we believe every driver should feel comfortable asking questions. Whether you've owned vehicles for decades or recently purchased your first car, our team is happy to explain what we're seeing in clear, straightforward language without unnecessary technical jargon.

If your vehicle sounds different, feels different, or simply isn't driving the way it normally does, don't ignore it. Addressing concerns early can often save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

If something doesn't seem right, schedule an appointment with Frontline Automotive in Fairbanks, AK. Our experienced technicians are here to help keep your vehicle reliable, safe, and ready for every season Alaska has to offer.

Bad Vibes? Your Brakes Might Be Talking to You

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

If you had to name the most important safety feature on your vehicle, what would you choose?

At FrontLine Automotive, we’ll tell you straight—it’s your brakes. Living and driving here in Fairbanks, where road conditions can change fast, having a brake system you can trust isn’t optional… it’s essential.

Most vehicles on the road today use disc brakes , a system designed for reliable stopping power. Similar to bicycle hand brakes, your vehicle uses calipers and brake pads to squeeze a rotor to bring you to a stop.

So What Causes “Bad Vibes”?

Every time you hit the brakes, friction is doing its job. But over time, that friction leads to wear.

Common warning signs include:

Squeaking or squealing – Often the first sign your brake pads are wearing down
Scraping or grinding – Indicates potential damage
Vibration or pulsation – Usually caused by warped rotors
Longer stopping distances – A serious safety concern

These aren’t just annoyances—they’re your vehicle asking for help.

What We Look For During a Brake Inspection

At FrontLine Automotive, we believe in transparency and doing things right . Our ASE-certified technicians will:

Measure rotor thickness and check for warping
Inspect brake pad life
Check for heat damage or corrosion
Ensure all components move properly
Inspect brake fluid condition

We don’t just fix the symptom—we evaluate the entire system.

Repair vs. Replace—What’s Best?

Many manufacturers now recommend replacing rotors rather than resurfacing them to prevent repeat issues and ensure long-term reliability.

A proper brake service typically includes:

New brake pads
New rotors (when needed)
Hardware replacement

It’s all about doing the job once—and doing it right.

Why It Matters in Fairbanks

Cold temperatures, road salt, and stop-and-go driving put extra stress on your brakes. Regular inspections are key.

Service frequency depends on:

Driving habits
Vehicle type
Local conditions

If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to provide honest feedback.

We’re Here to Keep You Safe

At FrontLine Automotive, our mission is built on honesty, integrity, and transparency —starting with making sure your vehicle stops when it needs to.

If you're feeling those “bad vibes” when braking, don’t wait. Let us take a look before it becomes a bigger issue.

Out of Joint: CV Joint & Boot Replacement in Fairbanks, AK

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

At FrontLine Automotive in Fairbanks, Alaska, we see a lot of driveline issues—especially with the rough roads, extreme temperatures, and seasonal conditions we experience here. One of the most common (and often overlooked) problems is a failing CV joint or torn CV boot.

If your vehicle is front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or 4-wheel drive, it relies on CV joints (constant velocity joints) to transfer power from your transmission to your wheels—smoothly and consistently, even while turning.

What Does a CV Joint Do?

Your CV joints are essential to how your vehicle handles. They allow your wheels to turn at different angles while still receiving steady power. Without them, your vehicle wouldn't be able to drive or steer properly.

At FrontLine Automotive, we often explain it like this: your CV joints are what keep your vehicle moving forward smoothly—especially when you're navigating Fairbanks roads, corners, and uneven terrain.

Why CV Boots Matter (Especially in Alaska)

Each CV joint is protected by a rubber CV boot filled with grease. This grease keeps everything lubricated and prevents wear.

But here's where we see issues in Fairbanks:

Cold temperatures can cause rubber boots to crack
Gravel roads and debris can damage the boot
Snow, ice, and moisture can get inside once the boot fails

Once that happens, dirt and water contaminate the joint, leading to rapid wear and eventual failure.

Common Signs of a Bad CV Joint

If you're driving around Fairbanks and notice any of the following, it's time to get your vehicle checked:

Clicking noise when turning (one of the most common signs)
Grease splattered near your wheels or under your vehicle
Vibration while driving at higher speeds
Clunking or instability when accelerating or turning

These are all signs you may need a CV joint replacement or CV boot repair.

Can You Just Replace the Boot?

In some cases—if caught early—we can perform a CV boot replacement and save the joint. That's why regular inspections are so important.

However, if the joint has already been contaminated or worn down, a full CV axle or CV joint replacement will be necessary.

Why Early Inspection Matters

At FrontLine Automotive, we always recommend staying ahead of these issues. A simple inspection can save you from:

Unexpected breakdowns
Loss of vehicle control
Costly repairs down the road

And in a place like Fairbanks, Alaska, the last thing you want is to be stranded in extreme weather.

Trust FrontLine Automotive for CV Joint Repair in Fairbanks

Our ASE-certified technicians specialize in CV joint diagnostics, CV boot replacement, and driveline repair for all makes and models. We're here to keep you safe, informed, and confidently on the road.

We believe in honesty, transparency, and taking care of our community—because you're not just a customer here, you're part of the FrontLine family.

Schedule Your CV Joint Inspection Today

Car Battery Replacement & Upgrades in Fairbanks, AK

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Batteries are a big part of everyday life here in Fairbanks, Alaska . Think about it—how many battery chargers do you have in your home right now? Phones, laptops, flashlights, power tools… batteries keep so many things running.

One of the most important batteries you rely on every day, though, is the one under the hood of your vehicle. At FrontLine Automotive in Fairbanks , we understand that needing a car battery replacement is rarely something anyone looks forward to. But with the extreme temperatures we experience in Interior Alaska, batteries simply don’t last forever. In fact, about 70% of vehicle batteries fail before they reach four years old . The good news is there are a few simple ways Fairbanks drivers can extend the life of their battery.

Keep Your Car Battery Clean

One of the easiest ways to help your battery last longer is keeping it clean.

If a battery gets dirty or greasy, it can actually run hotter than normal—and excess heat can shorten its lifespan. During routine maintenance at FrontLine Automotive , our technicians check your battery and clean it when needed to help keep it operating properly.

If you ever notice buildup or grime around your battery, bring your vehicle to our Fairbanks auto repair shop , and we’ll be happy to take a look.

Watch for Battery Terminal Corrosion

Another common issue we see in Fairbanks vehicles is corrosion around the battery terminals. This often looks like a white or bluish powder around the connections.

Corrosion can prevent your battery from delivering power properly and may even damage battery cables over time.

Our ASE-certified technicians at FrontLine Automotive can safely clean the terminals and inspect the cables to make sure everything is working as it should.

Avoid Deep Battery Drains

Running your battery completely down can significantly shorten its life.

Things like:

Leaving headlights on

Running accessories with the engine off

Using electronics while the vehicle isn’t running can deeply discharge the battery.

Most batteries can only handle around 10 deep discharges before they begin to fail.

Short Trips Around Fairbanks Can Affect Battery Life

Many of us in Fairbanks, AK make frequent short trips—running errands, dropping kids off, or heading across town. The problem is that short drives sometimes don’t allow the alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery.

Over time, this partial charging can weaken the battery.

To help maintain battery health, we recommend using a quality automatic battery charger at home occasionally. Charging once a month in the warmer months and every three months during winter can help keep your battery strong.

Professional Car Battery Replacement in Fairbanks

When it’s time for a new car battery in Fairbanks , the team at FrontLine Automotive can help you find the right replacement for your vehicle.

We always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications and can also recommend upgraded batteries designed for Alaska’s extreme cold . If you run extra electrical accessories or want extra reliability during winter, we can help you choose the best option.

At FrontLine Automotive , our goal is to keep your vehicle reliable so you can confidently handle everything Fairbanks roads and weather throw your way.

Schedule Your Battery Test or Replacement in Fairbanks

If your vehicle is slow to start, your battery is more than a few years old, or you simply want peace of mind before winter arrives, our team is here to help.

FrontLine Automotive is your trusted Fairbanks auto repair shop for battery testing, car battery replacement, and complete vehicle care.

Give us a call or stop by our shop in Fairbanks, Alaska , and we’ll make sure your vehicle is ready for the road ahead.

Drum Brakes

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Brakes that work properly are essential to your safety as you drive and stop on our Fairbanks streets. You want to carefully maintain your brakes . In vehicles equipped with drum brakes, the brake components are housed inside a drum that rotates with the wheel. When you step on the brake pedal, brake shoes push out against the inside of the drum, slowing the wheel.

Now brake shoes just wear away with use from rubbing on the drum as you brake. When it's time to replace brake shoes, it's a straight-forward repair.

If you hear squealing or grinding when braking , have your Fairbanks service advisor check them out. He'll have a technician perform a thorough brake inspection to see what needs to be done. He'll check for signs of brake problems and go over other brake components to see that they're working properly.

He can tell you if it's time to replace the brake shoes or if there are other issues with your brakes that should be addressed. Some people in our Fairbanks community ignore the warning signs and keep driving long after the shoes are completely worn out. When that happens, metal brake components will grind against the drum, damaging it enough that it has to be resurfaced or replaced.

When you push on your brake pedal, the wheel cylinder is activated and it pushes the shoes against the drum to slow the vehicle. This cylinder, and various springs within the brake, can wear out affecting your ability to stop . The worn components can be easily replaced.

The new brake shoes we put on your vehicle or other vehicle will restore your brakes to manufacturers' specifications. Or, we can install upgraded parts to increase your stopping power and reduce brake noise and brake dust . We have several options to meet your braking requirements and your budget.

Taking care of your brakes keeps them working safely – and you could prevent premature brake repairs down the road.

DISC BRAKE MAINTENANCE

Fri, 13 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Your vehicle weighs several thousand pounds and it takes a lot of force to bring it and your passengers to a safe stop – so everything needs to be in good working order.

The wheel hub keeps your wheel attached the vehicle. The brake disc – or rotor – is attached to the hub and spins with the wheel as you drive. Your brake pads clamp onto the rotor to slow the wheel.

The brake caliper straddles the rotor and squeezes the rotor to slow it down. The calipers contain brake pads which rub on the rotor when you step on the brakes.

The brake piston causes the calipers to squeeze and release as you use your brakes.

Your brake pads start to wear the first time you step on the brakes. Eventually the pads are worn out and need to be replaced. If you don’t replace the pads when they’re worn out, the metal parts of the brake will grind against the rotor and carve grooves into the surface.

If a scored rotor isn’t too bad, your technician can put the rotor on a lathe and smooth it out. If the grooves are too deep, or if the rotor is warped or cracked, you need to be replaced it.

Servicing disc brakes require special attention to the mechanical sliding and mounting portions of the system. Your service supplier knows the special needs. Sometimes brake pistons can stick and must be replaced. Typically, it’s cheaper to replace the entire caliper than to rebuild the piston.

So, there you have it – an inside look at how your disc brakes work. Replacing your brake pads on time will not only keep your vehicle stopping safely but could save you money on unnecessary brake repairs down the road.

Give us a call

Frontline Automotive

DISC BRAKES

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Your brakes are extremely important. Having good brakes just keeps you out of trouble. You’ll want to carefully maintain your brakes. With disc brakes, brake pads rub on a disc – or rotor – to slow the wheels. The pads are attached to a caliper that squeezes the pads against the rotor. It’s kind of like how squeezing the handbrake on a bicycle pushes the brake pads against the wheel of the bike.

Now pads just wear away with use – kind of like a pencil eraser wears out. The good news is that replacing brake pads is a straight-forward repair.

If you hear squealing or grinding when you use the brakes, have your service advisor check them out. He’ll have a technician perform a thorough brake inspection to see what needs to be done. He’ll check for signs of brake problems and go over other brake components to see that they’re working properly.

He can tell you if it’s time to replace the pads or if there are other issues with your brakes that should be addressed. Some people ignore the warning signs and keep driving long after the pads are completely worn out. When that happens, metal brake components will grind on the rotor, damaging it enough that it needs to be resurfaced or replaced.

Rotors can also warp or crack, in which case they’ll need to be replaced. Brake calipers also wear out over time. They can develop leaks, or the caliper pistons can freeze open or closed – either way it’s not good. When this happens it’s time to replace the calipers. A thorough brake inspection will reveal worn bearings or seals as well.

The new pads we put on your vehicle will restore your brakes to manufacturers’ specifications. Or, we can install upgraded parts to increase your stopping power and reduce brake noise and brake dust. We have several options to meet your braking requirements and your budget.

Taking care of your brakes keeps them working safely – and you could prevent premature brake repairs down the road.

Give us a call

WHY FAIRBANKS CAR OWNERS HESITATE TO GET THEIR VEHICLE SERVICED

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report stated that over 80% of the vehicles on the road have one or more service item or repair that's needed but hasn't been taken care of. Now that's a lot of undone service. That translates into something over 160 million vehicles in the US alone. Some of the neglected items are minor. Others are serious safety concerns.

There are several reasons Fairbanks drivers hesitate to take care of recommended services – especially services that our friendly and knowledgeable FrontLine Automotive service advisor recommends when we're in for something else, like an oil change.

The first issue boils down to comfort with car care in Fairbanks . Fairbanks drivers don't always feel we know enough to make good decisions. Fairbanks drivers who don't know as much about cars hesitate to ask questions because they don't want to look ignorant. It's human nature. But there's so much to know in this world, we can't all be experts in everything. So we specialize. It's very important to ask questions of any specialist, whether it's your doctor, financial advisor or your automotive technician.

Your Fairbanks technician wants your questions. He wants you to understand the recommendation and why it needs to be done. That brings us to the next issue. Fairbanks folks say that they don't always know if they really need the service or if they are just being sold something.

At the heart, it speaks to trust. Do you trust your Fairbanks service center and your service advisor at FrontLine Automotive? Trust has to be earned and that takes time and experience. But you can shortcut the process when you realize that most of the recommendations are based on manufacturer's maintenance schedules.

In other words, “You don't have to trust me, you can trust your owner's manual."

Basically, the engineers who designed your vehicle say here's when you need to have it serviced. That's who makes the recommendation, not your friendly and knowledgeable FrontLine Automotive. He's just reminding you.

Now Fairbanks drivers do need to trust the technician's experience and judgment from time to time. When he inspects your vehicle, he may find problems or concerns. He will explain things so that you can prioritize the concern and make a good decision about whether or not to have something done.

That brings us to the third issue. Money. Often the concern is about spending the money to take care of a recommended service. Our money has many places it needs to go. And Fairbanks drivers have another list of places we want it to go. Auto maintenance isn't usually on those lists.

FrontLine Automotive works hard to make sure that they diagnose the problem correctly and fix it right the first time. That's the only way they can maintain their reputation and remain in business. If they're not satisfying you and providing a good value, you won't come back and the service center won't be around for long.

When there is a real budget concern, your friendly and knowledgeable FrontLine Automotive pros can help you prioritize the work that needs to be done and come up with a plan for taking care of it that works within your budget.

Give us a call.

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY!

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Summer is always packed full of fun in Alaska! We enjoy getting out, taking advantage of the sunny weather, and being a part of our community. In August, our Auto Care group sponsored the Children's Museum Job fair. We enjoyed seeing the kiddos get excited to use some tools and work on the quad!

We love summertime in Alaska!

OXYGEN SENSOR

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Many people hear the term “oxygen sensor" and figure it must have something to do with sensing oxygen. But they don’t really know much beyond that. Let’s break it down; your vehicle has an oxygen sensor in the exhaust manifold that measures how much un-burned oxygen there is in the exhaust. The sensor reports its findings to the engine control unit (ECU), which knows how much oxygen there should be in the exhaust. Based on that information, the ECU will adjust the amount of fuel it sends to the engine.

This feedback and adjustment loop is non-stop. The goal is to have the optimal air to fuel ratio for performance, efficiency and to lower harmful emissions.

Now there is a second oxygen sensor located in the exhaust pipe after the catalytic converter. It also measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust after it has been treated by the catalytic converter. As this measurement is reported back to the ECU, the computer compares the oxygen levels before and after the catalytic converter to determine if the converter is still functioning properly.

Four-cylinder vehicles have two oxygen sensors. V-6 and V-8 engines have four sensors, two for each bank of cylinders. As you can imagine, the oxygen sensor lives and functions in a hot environment, so they do wear out over time. Substances in the exhaust can also damage them, leading to failure. Outside elements like water and road salt can corrode an oxygen sensor. When the sensor goes bad it simply needs to be replaced.

You may be interested to know that oxygen sensors are often replaced needlessly. When the oxygen sensor returns a measurement that is out of the specified range, it may trigger a trouble code in the ECU, and the Check Engine light is illuminated. Inexperienced do-it-yourselfers or parts store employees may read a trouble code that reports an out-of-range sensor reading. That could mean that the sensor is bad, but it could also mean that the sensor is accurately reporting a condition caused by some other malfunction. A skilled diagnostician can sort this out and will only replace the oxygen sensor when it has truly gone bad.

When you have a Check Engine light come on and stay on, it’s good advice to have it checked out by a qualified service technician at The Front End Shop. The cause may be minor or quite significant, so it’s best to play it safe and let the professionals weigh in.

A PAN YOU DON'T COOK IN

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

You probably have a cabinet in your kitchen filled with pots and pans. Your vehicle has one very important pan in it as well. It's the pan that holds oil for your engine called, naturally, an oil pan.

The oil pan is a very important, though simple, component of your engine's lubrication system. The oil pan is attached to the bottom of the engine and holds the oil that will be circulated through parts of your engine to keep them lubricated, reducing friction, so everything works smoothly and prevents damage. It's important that the oil doesn't leak out, so there is a gasket between the oil pan and the engine block.

The oil in your engine can get very hot while it’s running. The heat causes your oil pan and engine block to expand at different rates – cushioned by the gasket. Your oil pan can also get hit and damaged by debris kicked up from the road. Wear and tear, heat and time all take their toll, and it's possible for the gasket to wear out which can cause it to leak.

One sign you may have an oil pan gasket leak is a spot of oil visible under your vehicle where you park. If the leak is bad enough and your engine has lost enough oil, the oil light in your vehicle may illuminate.

Let your FrontLine Automotive Advisor know if you are experiencing any of these things. It needs to be repaired, so you don't lose more oil and damage your engine. Sometimes an oil pan gasket can be in a spot that's hard to work on and can take some time to replace. Our trained technicians will also check the oil pan itself to see if it's been damaged and needs to be replaced.

The life of your engine may depend on it.

INSPECT BEFORE YOU PURCHASE!

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Used Vehicle Inspection

It’s always exciting to get a new car – even when it’s used. But it can feel like you’re going out on a limb a bit when you buy a used vehicle. I mean, people sell vehicles for a lot of reasons. Maybe they just wanted a new car, maybe there was something wrong with it, and maybe there was something wrong with it.

It’s a great idea to order a report from a vehicle history service. This can uncover title problems and may reveal serious accidents or flood damage as well as any recall notices for the vehicle. Maintenance and repair records are a plus, but most sellers don’t have them.

Of course, the best thing is to get a professional to perform a used vehicle inspection. The inspection will go much deeper than just how good the vehicle looks and drives. You’ll get a feel for the vehicle’s overall condition, the status of major safety systems and an indication of how well it has been maintained. You’ll get a good idea of any work that needs to be done.

It’s easy to see how a used vehicle inspection is worth the cost. If problems are uncovered, you can either steer clear of the vehicle or bargain for a better price. If everything is OK, you’ll have a plan for addressing any routine services that should be done.

It’s easy to fall in love with a vehicle – just don’t let your feelings cloud your judgment. Have our pros at FrontLine Automotive and The Front End Shop perform a used vehicle inspection so that you’ll know if you’re getting a peach, or a lemon.

NOT SO DIM IDEA (AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAM DIMMERS)

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The moment someone invented headlights that had a high-beam and a low-beam, they also invented a problem. That problem was what happens when you meet someone on the road going the other way who forgets to switch off their high-beams?

We've all had it happen, of course. All you can do is look to the right edge of the road and try to avoid looking directly into the offender's headlights. We want to have high-beams available for the simple reason that they can improve safety when they're used correctly. They allow drivers more reaction time since they can see farther down the road. So, what about a way to automatically have your vehicle switch off your high beams when another vehicle is approaching?

Bingo! The automatic high beam dimmer! Engineers started working on this way back in the 1950s. One automaker came up with an odd-looking device that mounted on the dash. It had a phototube in it and, when it was hit by light, it would activate a mechanism that switched headlights from high- to low-beam. The problem was, it didn't work all that well when it mistook a lot of other lights for oncoming cars.

But steadily, technology improved, and computers were a game changer. The latest automatic high beam dimmers work very well. They combine a forward-looking camera in the rearview mirror with a computer to analyze lights ahead of the vehicle. The computer can distinguish between oncoming vehicles, reflections off street signs, taillights, ambient city lights, and street lights — a big improvement.

Engineers are also working on a split beam that would be able to selectively illuminate the road in front of your vehicle and block a portion of the light from reaching the oncoming driver's eyes.

If you have a burned-out headlight or are noticing that your headlights are dimming, check with us at FrontLine Automotive, your NAPA AutoCare Center. We can replace headlamps to restore your night vision.

FrontLine Automotive
1432 University Ave S
Fairbanks, AK 99709
(907)479-7550

CAR SCENT IS GOOD FOR AK DRIVERS?

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Here’s some travel tips that I’ll bet you didn’t know, and it might keep you safer:

The average American commuter spends two and a half hours daily in their car
The government says a hundred thousand auto accidents yearly are caused by drivers who fall asleep at the wheel.
Aggressive driving is the #1 traffic safety concern.

So, what does this have to do with how your car smells?

Well, which scent did you think makes drivers more alert?

Is it:

Strawberry
New Car
Pine
Warm Vanilla Breeze

It’s C. Drivers are more alert and have less fatigue with pine scent in the car, according to Aromatics.

And, drivers were less angry with overall improved driving performance with strawberry and pine scents.

And you thought they just smelled nice.

Give us a call

FrontLine Automotive
1432 University Ave S
Fairbanks, AK 99709
(907)479-7550
http://frontlineautomotiveak.com

SEVERE SERVICE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Simple Answers from FrontLine Automotive in Fairbanks : Severe Service

Question:
What is a severe service maintenance schedule ?

FrontLine Automotive Answer:
When I was a kid in Fairbanks, Sunday meant having a bath, getting dressed for church and then hanging up my Sunday clothes soon as we got home. Mom didn't have to wash those clothes but once a month or so.

Now, Saturdays were another story entirely: catching frogs, splash contests in mud puddles and crawling through the brush with GI Joe. Those clothes went straight into the laundry basket. My Sunday clothes – easy use. My Saturday clothes – hard use. They required a different laundry schedule. Severe Service Maintenance Schedules are kind of like that for Fairbanks drivers. “Normal” driving has a regular schedule; “hard” driving has a Severe Service Schedule. Service intervals are shorter on the severe schedule.

Most owner's manuals will describe Severe Service as:
Stop and go driving
Short trips
Low speed driving
Extreme hot or cold
Dusty conditions
Carrying heavy loads
Towing

For most people in Fairbanks, some “severe” driving is part of their everyday routine. You can ask your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at FrontLine Automotive about how you drive around the Fairbanks and North Pole area and see if your routine is closer to the regular or severe definitions and adjust your service intervals for things like oil changes, transmission and cooling system service.

NEW PAINT, NEW NAME, SAME GREAT STAFF!

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

This summer we have been busy at Frontline Automotive (formerly known as the The Front End Shop). We have a new name, we are expanding our building to accommodate more services and repairs, we are adding a fresh coat of paint to the building but we are the same trusted staff you have always known us to be! Stop in today to get caught up on all that is going on! We would love to see you!

ABS - ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) help you stop faster. That is not always the case on loose gravel or snowy surfaces. Anti-lock brakes, in fact, are designed to help you maintain control of your vehicle in an emergency braking situation.

Imagine you are driving on a snowy Fairbanks road. You slam on your brakes and your rear wheels lock up. Chances are good that the rear end of your vehicle will try to pass the front end and you can easily lose control. What would happen in the same circumstance if your front wheels locked up? Well you certainly would not be able to steer properly and your front end would go to wherever momentum leads it. The anti-lock brake system modulates your brakes on and off as many as 15 times a second. This keeps your wheels from locking up while providing the greatest amount of braking possible. You are better able to steer your vehicle and maintain control. Fairbanks Service advisors often talk about the 3 S's of Anti-Lock Brakes: Stomp – Stay – Steer. Stomp on the brake, Stay on the brake and Steer normally.

Modern anti-lock brakes systems utilize a computer to receive information from sensors and control the anti-lock brakes. There are wheel speed sensors at each wheel reporting back to the computer which can then decide when to activate the anti-lock brakes on the wheel or wheels in need.

So what affects how well the ABS works? First, the condition of your brakes. If your brakes are worn or not working properly, the ABS will not be able to do its job as effectively. A brake inspection at FrontLine Automotive in Fairbanks will let you know if your brake shoes/pads are in good condition, if there are any mechanical brake problems and if your brake fluid and power brake system need service. Proper brake fluid maintenance helps keep the brake control module in good working order. There can also be problems with the various sensors and the wiring that sends the messages to and from the computer. And, of course, your tires need to be in good condition to have enough traction to start, stop and steer. Worn tires are a big problem for ABS and stability control systems.

The ABS is the foundation of stability control systems, providing the information needed for stability control as well as to strategically brake a wheel when needed, so making sure your ABS is working well is very important. Also, the rolling diameter of your tires is one of the factors on which the computer bases anti-lock decisions. If you buy tires that are more than 3% larger or smaller than the tires that were installed at the factory, the ABS and stability control systems will not work properly. The computer can be re-calibrated for the new tire size so that the systems have the correct information.

When you start your vehicle, the ABS light will briefly illuminate on the dashboard. If the system detects a problem with itself, the light will stay on. That is your cue to take your vehicle in for an inspection to determine the problem. Your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at FrontLine Automotive is your partner in keeping this safety system operating as it should.

FrontLine Automotive
1432 University Ave S
Fairbanks, AK 99709

FRONTLINE AUTOMOTIVE'S GUIDE TO BATTERY MAINTENANCE

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Eventually your car battery will fail, and you will need to replace it. In fact, 70% don’t even make it four years. There is something you can do to make yours last a little longer.

It’s all about the flow of electrical power. When you start your vehicle, the battery uses power to get your engine cranking. As your engine runs, your alternator generates electricity to run all your electrical systems: like lights, a half dozen computers, anti-lock brake system, traction control, power windows, electronic fuel injectors, stability control, air conditioning, transmission servos – the list goes on. Any leftover electricity goes to recharge your battery. Then you turn on your radio and seat heaters; maybe plug in your cell phone and computer; the kids watch a DVD and soon there isn’t much extra electricity to go back into the battery.

Now, if you were on a long road trip, no sweat – you’d have plenty of time to fully recharge your battery. But not if you’re making stops around town. Every time you start the engine, your battery takes that big hit again. Multiple starts – multiple hits. By the time you get home, you have less than a full charge.

When the battery is continuously in a discharged state, it loses its ability to fully recharge. This starts a downward spiral in your battery life.

Now when your battery is on its way to getting this bad, your alternator is working overtime trying to keep it charged – which causes the alternator to wear out prematurely. A lot of experienced technicians suggest replacing your battery after five years, even though it hasn’t yet failed, as a maintenance item to extend alternator life.

Now, there is something you can do to help your battery last longer by hooking up a battery charger once a month in the summer and every three months in winter. This will ensure your battery routinely has a full charge. You can do this less often in the winter because the electrochemical process slows down when it’s colder and less damage is done when your battery is low. Computerized battery chargers are easy to use because they monitor and control the charging rate to keep the battery from overheating while it’s charging.

Ask your service advisor to test your battery so you know how much life is left. If it’s good but needs a maintenance service, he’ll have it cleaned up and make sure the connections and cables are good. If it’s looking like you ought to replace it, he’ll help you with a battery that’s right for your vehicle and driving needs.

OUR NEW NAME!

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Our Up Dated StoryA New Name! – FrontLine AutomotiveThe Front End Shop has been a Fairbanks, staple since 1984. We are family owned and operated and are known for our honesty, integrity and expertise in under car, suspension, brakes, steering and alignment service for light and medium duty cars and trucks. We plan to continue providing those services to you, our valued clients for many more years to come!However, over the past few years, we have been adding additional maintenance and repair services to our menu and many customers don’t know that they can bring their vehicles to us for oil services, cooling system service, tune-ups, and many other needed repairs on their vehicles. We often hear “I didn’t know you did that”, and “we only thought you worked on fronts ends and brakes”.So, we are changing our name to FrontLine Automotive to better serve our current and new customers! We have the same great staff with our ASE certified technicians providing the same high quality of work that our customers have come to expect from us.We at FrontLine Automotive are still your authorized Napa Gold AutoCare Repair facility offering a 36 Month/36, 000 Mile warranty on parts and labor along with convenient drop—off service, pick-up and delivery options, and many customer perks. We are here for you and want to make your experience with us a pleasant one.We want you to remember us fondly as The Front End Shop, but get to know us as FrontLine Automotive and see how much more we can do for you!

DIFFERENTIAL SERVICE

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Simple Answers from FrontLine Automotive for Fairbanks: Differential Service

June 2, 2020

Question:
What is a differential and why do Fairbanks drivers need to have it serviced?

FrontLine Automotive Answer :
First – your vehicle does have a differential. If it's a rear wheel drive, your differential is on the back. If it's front wheel drive, your differential is built into your transaxle (transmission). Fairbanks drivers with all-wheel drive or four wheel drive will have differentials front and rear and maybe one in between.

When you are steering through a turn at an intersection in Fairbanks, the wheels on the outside of the vehicle have to spin faster than the inside wheels because they have to travel a slightly longer distant through the curve. The differential compensates for these speed differences between the wheels.

Because it is part of the equipment that transfers engine power to the wheels, the differential is working hard. Differential fluid – a special heavy-duty oil – cools, lubricates and protects the differential. It needs to be replaced on a schedule to remove metal shavings and other contaminants. Note: if you have a front wheel drive vehicle, replacing your transmission fluid takes care of your differential service needs.

Differentials have become increasingly sophisticated for Fairbanks drivers. Rather than the simple mechanical devices of yesteryear, they are more complicated and may be part of the computer controlled vehicle stability system. This means they are more taxed, so it pays for Fairbanks drivers to have them serviced on schedule at FrontLine Automotive in Fairbanks to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at FrontLine Automotive.

POWER STEERING MAINTENANCE

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Steering is one of the things we take for granted in our vehicles. Let’s break it down into two areas: first, the power assist and second, the actual parts that steer the vehicle.

Most people under 40 have never driven a car or truck without power steering. Most vehicles today have a hydraulic power steering pump that provides boost to help you steer. The pump is usually driven by the serpentine belt, but some newer vehicles have an electric pump. Some vehicles even have an electric motor that directly powers the steering.

The important thing to keep in mind is that these pumps and motors will eventually wear out and the hoses will start to leak. You can postpone that day by having a power steering service from time to time. We will drain the old fluid and replace it with fresh fluid. This removes water and contaminants that can corrode power steering parts. Ask your service advisor for the recommended change interval.

What about the mechanical steering parts? Is there anything you can do to maintain them? Yes. If any of the steering parts can be lubed, your technician will take care of that with a lube, oil and filter service. Other than that, just watch for signs that parts are wearing out — things like loose steering and uneven tire wear.

Worn parts can be replaced to get you back on the road. Now, sometimes parts can be bent or damaged from hitting potholes, curbs or rocks. It’s important to take care of these problems early on. If you neglect them, the damaged parts stress other attached components which starts a chain reaction of damage.

Steering maintenance is pretty straight forward: Replace power steering fluid as recommended and fix worn or damaged parts right away. That’ll save you money in the long run.

Contact a professional service advisor at Frontline Automotive for more details.