Most wiper blades typically last about a year. Before investing in new blades there are a couple simple steps to insure you need blades. First thoroughly clean the windshield with a good ammonia based window cleaner. This will remove any wax build up that may have accumulated on the window. Secondly wipe the edge of the blade that contacts the window with a little rubbing alcohol this will clean a way and old rubber deterioration from the blade. Now use the windshield washers and see if the wiper cleans the window properly. If not, it’s time to replace them. When replacing blades, we recommend replacing the blade assembly instead of just the rubber refill. The assembly is the frame which is also the spring that keeps the rubber on the windshield. In most cases this wears at the same rate as the rubber so the proper tension may not be applied to the new refill. Next adjustment, the rubber needs to contact the window in a perfect ninety degree angle to work properly in both directions. To achieve that, the wiper arm may need adjustment as well. This can be a very difficult and time consuming adjustment. When you buy wiper blades from us we install and adjust them for optimum performance at no extra charge.

If snow tires in the winter increase tire traction and make your car travels safer, why not use them all year round?
To the average driver, it is sometimes unclear why switching from winter tires to regular tires is necessary. The professionals at Galaxy Auto and Tire Center are here to explain the importance of ditching your snow tires as the weather warms up.
The tire tread that helps to grip ice and plow snow out of the tire’s path in the winter can actually work against you once warmer spring weather arrives. Snow tires are not designed to cut through rain water or prevent slipping or gliding (also known as hydroplaning). In addition, winter tires are designed for cold weather, made from compounds that become soft and wear faster in weather over 40°F. Keeping your winter tires through the summer will also decrease the overall fuel efficiency of your vehicle.  As the weather warms up, your urge to roll down the windows and enjoy the fresh air will be met the noise of your winter tires, as it is especially noticeable when the windows are down.
The best avenue to take to ensure safety and cost efficiency in the long run is to have two sets of tires, one for winter and one for the warmer months. Using the correct tires for the season will maximize the life of each set, increasing the wear time and saving you money in the long run! Consult your local Galaxy Auto and Tire Center for tire recommendations and services.

Before you leave on that holiday road trip to grandma’s house, you should take time to check to make sure your vehicle is safe.  Here are some important things to check on your vehicle:

Air pressure in your tires:  Know your vehicle’s recommended air pressure, especially for cold winter conditions.  The correct tire pressure for your vehicle can often be found on the vehicle’s I.D. sticker on the inside of the driver’s door frame, visible when the door is open.

Windshield Wiper blades:  Make sure your wiper blades are in good working condition and can keep your windshield clear during winter weather.  Also, make sure your washer fluid reservoir is full before heading out.

Headlights and Taillights:  Make sure all the exterior lights on your vehicle are working.  Did you know that in many communities a “fix-it ticket” can cost you?  Many communities charge fines upwards of $100 for burned out taillights and headlights.

Come in and have us check out your vehicle for safety before you take that big holiday road trip. We are open Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.  We are closed Christmas Eve, but will be open Monday, December 26 during regular business hours.

Remember to always check the weather reports before leaving home for your holiday road trip.  Know what kind of weather you may have to encounter.

Travel safe and happy holidays from your friends at Galaxy Auto & Tire Centers!