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Initially, your drive down the highway went fine. Without warning, the lights on your dash come up weirdly in sync. The car sputters and repeatedly briefly stalls. The car stops. All the electrical functions shut off. A few things could be wrong here, but suspicion commonly falls on the alternator.

The alternator generates vital electricity while a car runs. The alternator keeps the battery charged while supporting a flow of power running through the electrical system. Once the alternator goes, a car won't go. Mercifully, certain models come with an alternator warning light on the dash. 

To ensure that your vehicle is a safe mode of transportation, your brakes should be in optimal condition. A brake pedal should feel firm if it is functioning properly, and a soft brake pedal may be a sign that your brakes are in need of service.

One cause of a soft brake pedal is air in the brake line. The only substance that should enter the brake line is brake fluid, so if air gets in, it can cause problems. Other problems that can cause soft brake pedals include a damaged brake line, bad wheel cylinders, bad disc brake calipers…

The tires on your vehicle are exposed to wear and tear on a regular basis. They could have unseen damage that increases your risk for tire blowouts. By inspecting key components, you can ensure that your tires are safe for the road.

One of the easiest things you can check is tire pressure. You can check the tire of each individual wheel and your spare with a simple gauge in a matter of minutes. It's also recommended that you check for physical damage. Pay close attention to the treads on both sides of the tires. If you notice any…

When you own an SUV, there are so many advantages for packing to go on an extended trip, a one-day excursion, or even as a helpful resource when moving from one location to another.

Although you’re able to fit all of the items into your SUV, that does not mean it meets the load capacity by the manufacturer’s standard. Instead of assuming that the load capacity meets the maximum level, refer to your manufacturer's specifications and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Be sure to take into consideration how many passengers will be in your vehicle. You…

Choosing between rubber and carpet floor mats can be difficult for many drivers. Today we look at the reasons why each is beneficial for drivers.

Choose the rubber all-weather floor mats when there is always a mess inside your vehicle. Maybe you work in construction and drag in dirt each time you drive. Perhaps your pets are always filthy, or the kids when coming home from soccer practice. The rubber mats are great for drivers who live in areas that experience longer than normal periods of inclement weather.

The carpet mats are ideal for the driver who doesn't get…

When warranties are developed, different terms are designed to give motorists financial advantages during maintenance and repair situations. If you need help selecting a warranty that will provide benefits on the road, you can simplify the scouting process by considering your driving habits.

A powertrain warranty is a practical choice for a sporty car that's driven regularly, as it will cover the main engine hardware and transmission components. If you drive a vehicle around Hickory on long roads, this warranty will help you protect all of the key hardware that powers the wheels...

Most vehicles either have the front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, while some also have the option of having all-wheel drive. To know which type to buy, you need to understand your own driving habits and how you will use the vehicle you buy and drive in Hickory.

Rear-wheel drive vehicles have a more solid design, which allows them to take more abuse on bumpy roads and in unusual circumstances. They also provide better balance and handling, except in the snow where it's easy to get stuck. A front-wheel drive vehicle is easier to handle when in snowy conditions.

Testing your car battery is simple if you have the right tool and understand how to use it safely. What do you need to check your car battery at home? All you need is a simple voltmeter and the advice from Hendrick Honda Hickory!

Turn off the headlights and the ignition before testing the car battery. You will need a voltmeter to get an accurate reading, but before connecting to battery, make sure to use a wire brush on battery terminals to clear corrosion and to make a clean connection. 

If you notice that your brake pedal just isn't working the way it normally does or the way you think it should be, rest assured that our team of knowledgeable and professional technicians can take a look and figure out if there is an issue. Some of the most common complaints we see when it comes to your brake pedal includes:

• A pedal that feels like it is loose when you press down upon it
• A pedal that is making odd noises when compressed 

A vibrating steering wheel while driving your car is a sure sign that there are problems with your wheel alignment. At Hendrick Honda Hickory, we will service your vehicle if you have a bumpy ride, putting your wheels back into alignment once again.

Take a good look at your tires. The tread should wear evenly around the tire. If the wear is on just the inside or outside of your tire, there are issues with your alignment. It's not difficult to get your tires aligned, and it's important to get the work done on your vehicle before you…