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If you’re like most car owners, your head starts to spin when you try to figure out the difference between torque and horsepower. We usually know that they have something to do with engine performance, but many times, even car enthusiasts aren’t sure about the difference between torque and horsepower.

Torque vs. Horsepower

Simply put, torque is how fast your engine can push air through its system giving it acceleration rate. Horsepower measures the power in your engine. More specifically, horsepower is how many feet your engine can a weight of 33,000 lbs. per minute. What this comes out to is that torque is how fast your car can accelerate from a stopping point, and horsepower is how quickly it can pull something.

How Can I Have More?

Increasing torque doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, there are two great tactics for increasing yours that can also increase your horsepower. Increasing your throttle body diameter can greatly increase your vehicle’s capacity to accelerate by delivering more air at a faster rate. Tweaking your exhaust can also have great benefits. For example, adding an aftermarket header works like a larger throttle body to increase your vehicle’s airflow creating more combustion that leads to acceleration and power.

These two simple modifications can increase your torque and your horsepower by increasing the airflow which increases your engine’s combustion. For more tips on getting the most from your vehicle, or to have your vehicle serviced, call the experts at Japanese Car Specialties, Inc today.

We all want to save money on our fuel bill. However, sometimes it’s just not that simple. We have to drive our car for errands, work, and a million other things, and many times, carpooling, walking or public transportation just isn’t an option. These 5 things can help even the most driven car save on fuel, saving you money every time you stop at the pump.

Give Up Your Lead Foot

When you gun it as you take off from a standstill, a stoplight, for instance, your vehicle uses almost twice the fuel it would to accelerate normally with a steady build up to speed. This also happens when you speed down the highway. Some cars can use up to 13% more fuel when going 80 as opposed to 65.

Don’t Buy What You Don’t Need

Oftentimes, we put high octane unleaded in our vehicle because we have been told by one place or another that it’s better for our vehicle. However, if your operator’s guide doesn’t say you need high octane, you don’t. Only specific, high compression engines require higher octane fuel, so you may be spending money you don’t need.

Watch Your Tire Pressure

Your tires can have a massive effect on your gas mileage. When your tires are low, it creates rolling resistance and causes the vehicle to need more power. Keeping your tires properly inflated or switching to low rolling resistance tires could help you save on your fuel bill.

Lose the Weight

A heavy vehicle takes more power to move. Therefore, if your vehicle has a huge luggage rack on top or a ton of stuff in the back, it needs to use more power to go which costs you more money in fuel. To combat this, take bulky racks off of your vehicle when they aren’t in use. Also, empty your trunk or truck bed to keep heavy stuff from piling up and causing drag.

Keep It Up

Almost every system your car uses to function affects your gas mileage. That’s why it’s important to maintain your vehicle properly. Air filters, oil filters, spark plugs, and fuel injectors are all components of your vehicle that will greatly affect your car’s gas mileage. Keeping these parts in shape will help improve the efficiency and the gas mileage of any vehicle.

With gas prices higher than ever in some places, it’s important to save on fuel wherever possible. These simple changes to your vehicle and daily activities can help you save money every time you visit the pump. For more tips on how to save fuel, or to find out about our services, call Japanese Car Specialties, Inc at (949) 583-0811 today!

When Should You Have Your Car’s A/C Serviced? Watch Out For These Signs.

Our car’s A/C is a crucial component, especially in the hot summer months. Like all car components, they will need to be serviced once in awhile, and that goes for you A/C, also. But when should you have your car’s A/C serviced? Below are signs your car’s A/C needs to be serviced.

No A/C

This is the most obvious sign when you should have your car’s A/C serviced. If you try to turn on your air conditioner and nothing happens, the cooling fans could be damaged or you could be low on refrigerant. Either way, your car needs to be serviced.

Isn’t Cold

The A/C is turned on and working, but it isn’t producing enough cold air. When this happens it’s usually due to a low refrigerant, but whatever the reason, taking it to a professional mechanic can remedy the situation.

Unusual Sounds

You never expect to turn on your car’s air conditioner to hear very weird and unusual sounds, but it does happen. Typically, you’ll hear banging or rattling, which can be very unsettling. These sounds happen because of debris that’s clogged the A/C or something else has been damaged.

Bad Smells

Usually, we have bad smells in our car due to accidentally leaving food in the car or smelly sneakers, not because of our A/C unit. Unfortunately, it does happen and it can occur because of mold growing on the A/C unit. At the first sign of a bad smell, get your car to a mechanic ASAP.

If you need air conditioner repair in Mission Viejo, CA, call Japanese Car Specialties, Inc. today at (949) 583-0811.

Know When You Need Your Brake Pads Are Wearing Out.

In order to be completely safe when we are driving our cars, we need brake pads that are in good condition. Because our car brakes ensure we come to a complete stop or not run into anything, it is important to know when your brake pads are wearing out. Knowing when you need new brake pads can prevent costly repairs and other damages to your car. Below are four signs your car’s brake pads are wearing out.

Vibrating Brake Pedal

Usually, when you push down on the brake it will take little effort to stop the car. If you press down on the brake and it begins to vibrate, you may have a problem. This can be caused by brake pads becoming too hot and becoming deformed.

Clicking Noises Coming From Brakes

When we press our foot against the brake to stop, there should be no sound coming from the brake. One of the common signs that your brake pads are wearing out is when you hear a clicking noise. This can be due to loose brake pads.

Your Car Pulls To One Side

Without touching your steering wheel, when you brake, your car shouldn’t be pulling to the left or the right. Not all of your brake pads will go out at the same time, so when it pulls to one side, it can be an indication that one brake pad is worn out.

If you think you are having brake pad issues in Mission Viejo, CA, call Japanese Car Specialties today at (949) 583-0811 for brake pad replacement. 

Not Sure When You Need An Oil Change? Watch Out For These Signs.

In order to keep our cars running as smoothly as possible, it’s important to keep oil levels at the right amount. Our car oil ensures that our engines run without any issues. Without lubrication from the oil, our cars run less effectively. To guarantee your car is always in good condition, here are 4 telltale signs that your car needs an oil change immediately.

The Check Engine Light

On your car’s dashboard, sometimes a light will pop up that looks like an oil can. That is to warn you that your car needs an oil change. Ignoring the light will only hurt your engine.

Loud Engine

Strange noises coming from your engine is never a good sign. If you hear grinding or clanking coming from your engine, it might be past getting your oil change. This can be an indication of a bigger engine problem but probably started because of infrequent oil changes.

 Smoke Coming From Tailpipe

It’s perfectly normal for vapor to come out of your tailpipe, but when you see smoke, that can mean there is an oil leak in your engine.

Dropping Oil Levels

If you happen to be someone who checks your oil and you see that it reached the minimum gauge on the dipstick, then that could mean that there is an oil leak.

Oil Smell

You shouldn’t be able to smell any oil when you are driving your car. However, if you smell a strange odor in your car, take it to a mechanic immediately.

Are you needing to get oil changes for your imported car in Mission Viejo, CA? Call the professionals at Japanese Car Specialties today at (949) 583-0811.

Having your car’s tires rotated is a very simple maintenance procedure, but one that isn’t done very often. It’s important to get tire rotation because it makes your tires last longer, improves gas mileage, and makes driving your car more comfortable. So when is it time to have your car’s tires rotated? Here are a few signs to look out for.

Don’t Wait Until Your Tires Are Worn For You Car’s Tires to Be Rotated.

Uneven Wear On Tires

The more that you drive on the tires, the more wear you have. It’s important to rotate the tires so that the tires can wear more evenly. The tires in the front of your car will get more wear because that is where you brake, turn, and where the engine is located. If the tires are left in the same spot for years, There will be more wear in the front than in the back, causing the vehicle to shake or sway.

Noise and Vibration

Another common way to know that you need your tires rotated is when your vehicle starts to make noises or vibrations. Usually, you will feel it most in the steering wheel, but it isn’t uncommon to feel it all over in your car. The vibrations are due to the tires being worn unevenly.

Pressure

Does one of your tires have less air than the other? While one tire is losing air, the others are wearing unevenly and subjected to more pressure. You don’t want any of your tires to be low on air or take the brunt of the work.

Do you need a tire rotation for your imported vehicle’s tires in Mission Viejo, CA? Call the experts at Japanese Car Specialties at (949) 583-0811 today.

Let Japanese Car Specialties, Inc. Help You Determine When You Need An Oil Change.

The standard practice of an oil change and filter replacement is around every 3,000 miles driven, and can fluctuate depending on the age of car, make and model. Higher end cars needs service and frequent oil changes. But just how often SHOULD you get your oil changed? As most things, too much of a good thing can actually be bad for you.

Many cars today go between 5,000-10,000 miles before being serviced for an oil change, but that is not for everyone. Any signs of damage, unusual noises or movements in the car is a sign to take your vehicle into Japanese Car Specialties. Inc.

A big reason that many drivers go so long between oil changes is the new types of oil out on the market:

• Full synthetic blends
• Synthetic blended oils

These types of oils last longer, give better mileage between changes, and are used more frequently in newer cars. However, many mechanics still recommend the standard 3,000-5,000 mile mark for cars that are older or in need of additional services – it all depends on the driver’s driving habits.

Many mechanics suggest you change oil more often for “severe” driving conditions, such as frequent trailer towing, extensive stop-go driving, driving in extreme heat or cold, or frequent short-distance driving.

Whether you are a new car owner, or have had your vehicle for years, contact Japanese Car Specialties, Inc. today at (949) 583-0811 for your oil change services in Mission Viejo, CA to see how frequently you should get checked.

Wondering what to include in a car emergency kit? There are several essential items and some pretty unusual ones, but it also depends on your specific driving conditions. Here are some tips to help you learn what to include in a car emergency kit.

Must Have Items

If your car breaks down and you end up stranded somewhere, you’ll want more than your car manual and the package of gum in your console. Whether you’re commuting to work or going on a cross-country trip, here are a few must-have items for your car.

– A jug or bottles of water
– Tire changing supplies (spare tire, tire iron, tire jack, WD-40)
– Flashlight
– Jumper cables
– Emergency information, such as a roadside assistance card and insurance
– First aid kit
– Non-perishable food such as energy bars, MREs

In addition to carrying these items in your car, it is just as important to know how to use them. Your spare tire won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to change it!

Personalized Items

Depending on where you drive regularly, or who rides in your car, you may need a few other supplies on hand. If you’re driving around with Fido, it’s wise to carry clean water and a bowl, an extra leash, treats, and waste bags. Do you have a small child? Make sure you have emergency food for your kid, and anything else they might need. If you are driving somewhere you’re not familiar with, you should keep a paper map handy, just in case something happens to your GPS or phone. Going somewhere snowy? Invest in an ice scraper and some gloves.

Unusual But Helpful!

Other popular emergency kit supplies include duct tape, a change of clothes, and tools. You never know when you’ll need these things, but you’ll be thankful that you do when an emergency happens!

If you need auto repair in Mission Viejo, CA, call (949) 583-0811 for Japanese Car Specialties! We’ll get your Japanese car back on the road in no time.

Here is the story: You’re driving down the road to complete your errand or see your family. Suddenly, briefly, you feel your car shiver or shake. Its so subtle, you may believe it was just that you wiggled the steering wheel without thinking. However, here is the reality: That slight shiver or shake was more likely your suspension telling you it is time for service.

Suspension Wear Signs

This system is composed of many different parts and pieces, so you may be wondering if there are any universal signs that indicate it is time for service. There are many signs that mean you should get your car to the shop.  The most common of these is the “bounce” test, where you try and bounce your vehicle. If it continuously bounces after you place and release weight on it, it desperately needs service.

You may have also noticed your ride becoming rougher, a slight swaying of your car, or even a drift towards the left or right while driving. That means your suspension is losing its stability. This will be accompanied by uneven wear on your tires. Damage to the suspension can effect your whole vehicle, from causing body damage due to rolling, to damaging your tires by causing uneven wear and tear. Remember that it is in your best interest for your safety and the safety of your vehicle to get your vehicle to the shop when you have a suspension issue.

Call Japanese Car Specialties, Inc. today at (949) 583-0811 for your suspension service in Mission Viejo, CA. 

Your tires are what connects your vehicle to the road, so keeping them in top shape is critical. Regular inspections and tire pressure checks will help your tires last and keep you safe. When checking your tires for damage and wear, watch for these common tire problems.

Uneven Wear

When checking the tread on your tires, look for signs of uneven wear. This may be single-side wear or center wear, or you may see dented hills and valleys in your tires. Each of these common tire problems actually indicates a larger problem with your vehicle. For example, center wear most likely indicates that your tires are overinflated, causing the middle to wear faster than the sides.

Tire Damage

Your tire’s can tell you a lot about your car, similar to a human footprint. However, we don’t need detectives and forensics teams to identify a problem with your vehicle! Tire damage may present itself in cuts, cracks, bulges, cupping, flat spots, and more. Some of these problems are due to hitting a curb or going through a pothole, while other may be a sign of another issue. Our expert auto technicians will quickly identify any problems with your vehicle. It’s important to repair problems with your suspension system, alignment, and more to preserve the life of your tires.

Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure is one of the most dangerous problems you can have. When your tires are underinflated, they can quickly overheat and cause a blowout. Prevent any dangerous problems and check your tire pressure once a month. Be sure to do this when your tires are cold (before you drive your vehicle) or the reading will not come out correctly. Your tire pressure will fluctuate if you have a small hole or when the weather changes significantly.

If you suspect a problem with your tires—or need tire rotation—call Japanese Car Specialties! Our skilled auto technicians will carefully check your car for problems and other common tire problems. When you need Japanese car repair in Mission Viejo, CA, call 949-583-0811!