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Is your car giving you trouble lately? Does it feel like it's not running quite right? Chances are, your spark plugs might need to be replaced. Here are a few signs that it might be time for a new set of spark plugs. If these symptoms sound familiar, take your car to your local Nissan service center in College Park, MD, as soon as possible! Trouble Starting If it takes longer than usual for your engine to turn over, or if it sounds like it's struggling to start, it's a good indication that the ignition plugs need to be replaced. Another key sign is if your vehicle starts fine in warm weather but has trouble starting in cold weather. more This is because the spark plugs need to create a spark to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the engine, and cold weather can make it more difficult to create a spark. If you notice either of these issues, it's best to take your car to a mechanic. The Engine Misfires If the engine in your vehicle is misfiring, you might need new plugs. If your spark plugs are worn out, it can cause the engine to misfire, run rough, lose power, and decrease fuel efficiency. In some cases, it can even lead to engine damage. If you suspect your ignition plugs may be worn out, have them inspected by a professional mechanic. Poor Gas Mileage The quality of your spark plugs directly impacts your car's gas mileage. If you notice that you're getting less mileage, it may be due to deteriorated ignition plugs. As they age, the space between the plug electrodes can expand or decrease.   This causes the spark plugs not to fire or fire erratically, which leads to increased emissions, thus wasting fuel. When this happens, your car's engine has to work harder to burn fuel, resulting in poorer gas mileage. Replacing your spark plugs is an easy and affordable way to improve your car's gas mileage. Slow Acceleration When you press the gas pedal, you expect your car to speed up accordingly. However, if your vehicle lags or takes longer to reach the desired speed, it could signal you need new spark plugs. However, additional elements, such as faulty oxygen sensors, a malfunctioning fuel pump, or dirty fuel injectors, can result in a delayed reaction as well. So be sure to have your car inspected by a skilled mechanic to find the actual cause of the problem.   If you're unsure whether your car needs new ignition plugs, don't worry! Schedule a service at DARCARS Nissan of College Park. We would be more than happy to take a look and see what might need to be done to get your engine running as smoothly as possible.   Image by Pixabay

Your car's brake pads press against the rotor to create the required friction to slow down and stop your vehicle. Eventually, the pads wear down, and when they get too thin, they don't work properly, and driving your Nissan will no longer be safe. Below are ways to tell how often College Park, MD, drivers should replace their brake pads to be safe on the road. Mileage How long brakes last varies depending on the type of vehicle and the driver. The road conditions and drivers' driving habits significantly affect how often the pads should be replaced. If you drive your car mostly in urban areas in heavy traffic and use your brakes a lot or regularly brake hard, the pads will wear down much faster, and you'll have to replace them more often. more Generally, if you drive in stop-and-go traffic, it's best to replace your pads every 30,000 to 35,000 miles before they wear down too much. If you don't drive your car a lot and mostly drive in rural areas or on highways, your pads can last up to 70,000 miles or more. Mileage is not the only way to tell it's time to replace your brakes. There are also specific warning signs that will alert you when the pads are worn and need replacing. Pad Thickness As you drive and use your brakes to slow down and stop your car, the pads start to wear down. New pads are between eight to twelve millimeters thick. The pads are still acceptable at a thickness of 6.4 millimeters, but anything below that will influence your braking ability. When the pads wear down to 3.2 millimeters, it's best to replace them immediately. When they are too thin, it severely impacts your stopping power and your safety behind the wheel. High-Pitched Squealing Sounds Most pads have a small piece of metal that makes a high-pitched squealing sound when the pads are worn down and getting too thin. When you hear the sound, replace the pads as soon as possible. Grinding Noises If you keep driving with worn-down pads, you'll hear an awful grinding noise from the metal of the pads scraping against the rotors. The scraping will lead to extensive damage to the rotors and high repair costs. Pedal Vibrations Pads that are excessively worn or contaminated with oil or dirt can cause vibrations. You'll feel the vibrations through your brake pedal when you apply the brakes. Solve the pedal vibration issue as quickly as possible by replacing the pads. Slow Brake Response Worn pads affect your braking ability when you step on the brake pedal. Your car will be slow to respond, and it will take much longer than usual to come to a complete stop.   If you experience any of the above braking issues or your pads look worn and thin, it's time for new pads. Schedule a service at DARCARS Nissan of College Park today for an affordable pad replacement by our certified Nissan service center to ensure you've got the braking ability you need to keep you safe on the road.

Cars weren't meant to last forever, but they were built to last for a long time. If you've noticed that your car isn't running the way it's supposed to, this could be an indication it needs to have some repair work done. To determine if you need to replace the engine, here are some signs to look for, according to a certified Nissan service center in College Park, MD. You Hear Strange Sounds If you hear strange sounds coming from under the hood, including knocking, this could be a sign that you need a new engine. Knocking sounds might be an indicator that you have worn rod bearings. more You See a Lot of Exhaust Your car normally has exhaust coming out of the tailpipe, but more often than not, you can't see it. If there comes a time when you see a ton of exhaust coming out of your car, this could mean it's time to get a new engine.   If the exhaust is black, that means your vehicle is burning fuel. White means that coolant is burning, and blue means that oil is burning. None of these colors are good, and each one indicates there are serious issues with your engine. You See or Smell Smoke Smoke is not the same as exhaust, as smoke comes from under the hood. Seeing or smelling smoke could indicate that you've blown a head gasket or that you have a leaking exhaust manifold. Smoke could also be an indicator that there is an electrical issue. Like exhaust, smoke is never a good thing, and it should be checked out and fixed as soon as possible. You Experience a Loss of Power When driving your car, if you notice that it doesn't have the same get-up and go that it used to, you might be experiencing a loss of power. As your car gets older and you put more miles on your engine, it doesn't work like it used to. Should you find that you want to add more zip to your vehicle, getting a new engine might be exactly what you need. You Find Metal Shavings in Your Oil Metal shavings in your oil are an indication that parts of your engine are falling apart. It could only be a matter of hours or days before your engine completely seizes, so getting it replaced as soon as possible is essential.   We hope these sure signs can help you distinguish if you need an engine repair, but please feel free to get in contact with our service technicians today if you have any questions! When you need work done on your car, check out our service & parts deals for coupons you can claim today!

Tire care is an essential part of being a responsible vehicle owner. Luckily, with the dynamic driving technologies in the 2022 Nissan Altima, you can drive like a pro and minimize the wear on your vehicle's tires. However, when you are in need of new tires, your local Nissan dealer can help. Here is what you need to know about your Nissan tires. For your safety and the health of your vehicle, it is important to regularly monitor your tires for wear and damage. Ensure that you regularly check your tread depth, and if you notice signs of significant wear, replace your tires immediately. Aside from this, you should also monitor your tire pressure and look out for any other signs of damage. You should always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and replace your tires as often as is recommended. more Why You Shouldn't Wait to Change Your Tires Many people often overlook the importance of tire care. Failing to ensure that your tires are in good condition can put you at risk of an accident. Should your tires give out on the road, you might struggle to safely pull off, and this presents a risk to you and the other vehicles around you. Worn tires can also have a significant impact on your stopping distance, which makes you more likely to crash, putting you at risk for both physical injury and financial consequences. Aside from this, faulty tires can also make your vehicle less efficient. We know the last thing you want is to end up stranded on the side of the road because you failed to maintain your tires. Even if all goes well, you could potentially break down in a dangerous area, or far away from any assistance. You can avoid all this trouble by ensuring that your tires are well maintained and replaced when necessary. Why You Should See Your Local Nissan Dealer When it is time for a tire change, there is no need to stress. Fortunately, at DARCARS Nissan of College Park, we make getting service for your vehicle easy. You can call, or schedule your appointment online, and choose a time that works best for you. You will also have access to our customer amenities, and we will care for your vehicle as if it was our own. We make customer convenience a top priority. We stand behind our tires and include road hazard coverage on eligible tires for free. When you bring your vehicle to us for care, you can be assured that it is being handled by highly trained and certified technicians. When you are looking for a vehicle service center that you can trust, you can count on us. We hope you found this information helpful. If you are looking for a new car, or you want quality vehicle service, we would love to help you out. Contact us today at DARCARS Nissan of College Park, and we can help you with any of your automotive needs.

It is vital to regularly check your vehicle's tire pressure to improve handling and your safety on the road. If you ensure that your tires are always inflated to the proper pressure levels, it will save you money on gas and extend the life of your tires. In this article, your Nissan dealer explains how to check the tire pressure on your car and ensure they are inflated to the correct PSI. Perform Tire Pressure Checks on Cold Tires Wait for the tires to cool down before you do a tire pressure check. A tire pressure reading when the tires are hot will affect the pressure reading. Wait two to three hours for tires to cool down before checking the tire pressure. more Find the Correct PSI You need to know the correct tire pressure level for each tire on your vehicle. You will find the correct PSI for your vehicle's tires on a sticker inside your driver's door. Your vehicle's owner's manual will also have information on the recommended tire pressure levels. If the tire pressure levels between the front and rear tires differ, write down the PSI for each tire on a piece of paper. Use a Tire Pressure Gauge Check the PSI of each tire with an analog or digital tire pressure gauge. An analog dial tire pressure gauge has a dial face with measurements. An analog pen tire pressure gauge has a stick with numbers or a bar that moves upward to indicate the tire pressure level. The easiest is to use a battery-powered digital tire pressure gauge that gives a digital reading. Measuring the Tire Pressure You can start with any one of the tires on your car. Remove the valve cap and keep it in a safe place. Take your tire pressure gauge and press it against the valve stem until you hear a hissing sound. Hold the tire pressure gauge in place until you get a tire pressure reading. A digital tire pressure gauge will display the reading on a screen. The dial on a standard gauge will point to the pressure, or a bar will move upward to show the tire pressure level. Write Down the Reading Write down the reading next to the recommended PSI for that specific tire. Perform a tire pressure reading on the rest of the tires. Remember to write down the reading next to the PSI for each tire. When you measure the tire pressure level of a tire, and it's correct, you can replace the valve cap. If you need to inflate the tire, keep the valve cap in a safe place until after you've increased the level to the correct PSI. Inflate the Tires You now have the tire pressure readings of all four tires. Compare the reading of each tire to the correct tire pressure level that you wrote down on the piece of paper. If the PSI of a tire is lower than the recommended tire pressure level, inflate the tire until it reaches the correct level. It's important not to overinflate the tires as it could cause damage to the tire. If you notice a tire is overinflated, you can push the back of the tire pressure gauge down on the metal pin in the valve stem to release the excess air. Replace the valve cap when the tire is inflated to the correct tire pressure level. Always keep your tires inflated to the correct tire pressure levels to prevent blowouts, decrease wear, and save you money on gas. Do you need a new set of tires or a tire service in College Park, MD? We have you covered at DARCARS Nissan of College Park! Click here to schedule your auto repair today!

If you require a collision repair, it's essential to prepare ahead for the next steps. When you consult with your local Nissan dealer in College Park, MD, it's necessary to get familiar with your vehicle's damage and the various options available to get the most from your Nissan collision experts. Assess the Damage to Your Vehicle It's vital to assess your vehicle following an accident to determine the extent of the damage and the potential costs. If the collision is minor, you may notice a small dent, scratches, and chipped paintwork. When there is more extensive damage, you'll want to note which parts and sections of your car have been impacted, so that you can explain these details to your Nissan certified technician. more While you may notice a few key areas in need of repair, a certified professional can perform a more thorough assessment and determine the extent of repairs and replacement parts required. Get Familiar With Your Insurance Coverage Consult with an insurance professional to determine which coverage is best for your car and budget. When you invest in collision insurance, you'll have the benefit of having more repairs and services covered, which could result in significant savings. If you're considering the option of increasing your coverage, your Nissan expert can review various options, including the premium and policy that's affordable and fits your driving needs. Once you decide to increase your car insurance to include collision coverage, you can rest assured that your Nissan technician can perform all the repairs and replacements needed at a low or no cost. Consult with a Professional Technician Your Nissan technician will provide a comprehensive assessment of your vehicle, including recommendations on repairing damages following a collision. If one or more parts require replacement, your Nissan expert will source authentic, certified parts compatible with the make and model of your vehicle. When a certified technician repairs your vehicle, you can rest assured that your car will receive the best service and repairs for top performance. If there are several options to consider for your vehicle's repairs, your Nissan expert will provide which options are best suited for your car and budget. Contact Roadside Assistance Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so that you can access urgent towing services and repairs following a serious collision. Your Nissan specialist can offer immediate assistance, so you can find the nearest service center and consult with a Nissan technician on the required repairs needed. When you prepare for your next road trip, be familiar with your vehicle, insurance protection, and emergency assistance. We guarantee your Nissan will receive the best services from our certified experts. Our DARCARS Nissan Collison Center will be here to help take care of the damages when you need us. You can always schedule your service online, so be sure to save that link for quick access when you need it!

When you first purchase your car at the Nissan dealership, your salesperson might advise you to come back every year for your car safety inspection. But is it essential to do this so often? And does it have to be the dealership, or can you go to any mechanic? Let’s explore how frequently you need to have your car seen by a professional technician and why going to your local dealer is the best choice. Recommended Inspection Schedule Most mechanics advise that you come to see them once every twelve months if you drive less than 15,000 miles per year. If you have a long commute or regularly take road trips and therefore exceed this mileage, you should visit the dealership more often. The following milestones are recommended: 15,000 miles, 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, and 90,000 miles. This frequency of service ensures that there are no safety issues with your car. more Sometimes, you will need to come see us outside of these times, particularly if your vehicle is displaying signs of a problem. These could include the warning lights coming on, a strange noise or smell, or a change in the way your car drives. Don't delay seeing your dealer at the first indication of an issue, since the problem could otherwise spiral out of control and cause further damage. Should I Go to my Local Nissan Dealer? Now you know how often you need to have your vehicle looked at, you might wonder if you can go to any mechanic. But in most cases, sticking to a manufacturer-approved dealer is the best choice. The technicians working at such a service center are highly trained and specialized. They will have the correct information, spare parts, and tools to guarantee a high-quality service. Aside from keeping you and your family safe, your regular inspection with a certified dealer like DARCARS Nissan of College Park also serves to keep your vehicle in good condition. If you're interested in selling it and upgrading to a newer version, later on, you should always choose your local dealership for service and meticulously record your visits. This could increase the price you can charge for your Nissan. Dealership Amenities Make Your Visit a Pleasure Having your car serviced doesn't have to be a pain. In fact, the amenities at your dealership can make the process pleasant. If you're able to take your car to us yourself, we can offer you free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee in our waiting area. For customers who are too busy, we offer a shuttle service that allows you to keep to your normal schedule while your car is being repaired. You should have your Nissan serviced once a year or every 15,000 miles you drive. This can save you a lot of hassle later on and help you retain the value of your vehicle, so you can sell it for top dollar when you're ready to upgrade. Knowing the best ways to take care of your car will ultimately save you money and many unwanted headaches. Our goal at our DARCARS Nissan service center is to make all of the information about caring for your vehicle easy and accessible. If you wish to learn more tips & tricks, check out our blogs that will help simplify your car maintenance and upkeep in College Park, MD.

The days of phoning and driving around to get quality auto services and repairs are over. Your local DARCARS Nissan dealer in College Park, MD, offers services, all under one roof, to make maintaining your car easy and hassle-free. We are your one-stop shop for all your automobile needs. Best of all, you can book an appointment online too! Oil Changes Oil changes depend on more than just the recommended 5,000 miles or six-month intervals. You have to keep your driving habits, road conditions, temperature, and the type of vehicle you drive in mind. It is also essential to use the proper oil specifically designed for your vehicle to ensure that it performs at its best. Your owner's manual has all the information you need on the recommended oil and oil changes for your vehicle. Feel free to ask questions about this with one of our technicians to help you make an informed choice on the type of oil and oil change intervals for your specific vehicle. We're always glad to help. more Brake Service & Repair Regular brake services are vital to ensure your safety on the road. The various brake components have different lifespans. Generally, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, and rotors can last twice that long, but yet again, it depends on your driving habits and the road conditions. Regular services will help us spot and repair problems before they become expensive repairs. Our service center is equipped to cover all your brake requirements, from inspections and fluid checks to brake pad replacements. Our certified technicians will do a thorough brake system inspection of all the components and replace or repair parts if necessary. Tire Service & Rotations Getting your car's tires rotated at regular intervals not only makes for a smoother ride but also saves you money in the long run. Routine tire rotations make your vehicle more fuel-efficient, increase even tread wear and traction, and extend the life of your tires. Our tire center is equipped with the latest technology. Our tire experts will inspect your vehicle's tires, ensure they are inflated to the correct pressure and perform a tire rotation to ensure that your tires are in good condition. Collision Repair & Body Shop Our DARCARS Collision Center has cutting-edge equipment with advanced technology, and our technicians are specifically trained to fix any vehicle damage, from tiny scratches and dents to major repairs. We believe in looking after the environment, and the paints and materials we use are environmentally friendly. If your vehicle needs to be towed, we will make the necessary arrangements. We will do an assessment and cost estimate free of charge, and while we repair your car, we also offer new rental vehicles and a complimentary shuttle service. Talk to the experts. We will supply you with superb auto repairs to ensure your Nissan stays in excellent running condition. Our trained team is here to help you keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Be sure to get started by scheduling your service online now!

If you want to keep your Nissan running in good condition, you need to stay on top of its maintenance. It's also essential that you find a service center as committed to your vehicle as you are. You want a professional, certified mechanic, and you want a Nissan service center that will be convenient and treat you well. How do you find a good service center? There are certain qualities that every excellent service center has. Well-Trained Mechanics Always make sure that anyone working on your car is up to date on their certifications. Many service centers are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Excellence. And ideally, the mechanic working on your vehicle is licensed to work on Nissans. Using a Nissan-certified mechanic ensures that the individual working on your car knows all of its ins and outs. Using a professional, certified mechanic is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your vehicle gets the best possible service. more A Commitment to Customer Satisfaction When you choose a service center, you want to select one that will go the extra mile to make sure you're satisfied. This may include anything from greeting you as soon as you enter the service center to a comfortable waiting area. It's not unusual for waiting rooms in service centers to offer free wi-fi, coffee, bottled water, and other amenities. Any time your vehicle is worked on, there's likely to be at least a short wait. Look for a service center where you'll be comfortable and where you'll be treated well. Towing Occasionally you may need to have your vehicle towed in for a repair. If you have an established relationship with a service center that offers towing service, you won't have to worry about finding an independent towing company to pick up your car. This can save you money in the long run, and it may also expedite the service your vehicle needs. Shuttle Service Sometimes you just don't have time to wait on-site as your vehicle receives auto repairs. That's why it's helpful if your service center operates a shuttle service that can drop you off at your home or office. Many service centers offer a free shuttle service that operates within a certain radius. Same-Day Service Some vehicle repairs may take several days to complete, and others only take a matter of hours. When your vehicle is in the shop for a minor service, same-day service can be helpful. This minimizes the amount of time you're without a car and saves you money that might have been spent on rental cars and taxis. If you're committed to keeping your vehicle in excellent condition, you can count on us at DARCARS Nissan of College Park. Be sure to schedule your next auto repair with us in College Park, MD.