#2005 - Park & Polish Car Show

Most AWD systems expect all four tires to have nearly the same rolling diameter. A brand-new tire can be taller than the others, forcing the drivetrain to “fight itself” constantly. That extra load can overheat and damage components like the center coupling/viscous unit—an expensive repair.

As a rule, you want the tires to be very close in overall diameter, which usually means tread depths should be similar across all four tires. If one tire is significantly newer, ask about replacing tires as a set or shaving a tire to match. The goal is to keep the AWD system from constantly compensating.

That pattern often points to poor airflow across the A/C condenser at low speeds. A common culprit is a radiator/condenser cooling fan that isn’t running due to a bad motor, relay, fuse, or wiring issue. Get it checked soon, because it can affect both A/C performance and engine cooling.

No—on most modern vehicles, the compressor runs the same when A/C is on, whether the fan is low or high. “MAX” typically changes where the air comes from by recirculating cabin air, which can cool faster once the interior starts dropping. Start with fresh outside air when the cabin is blazing hot, then switch to recirc/MAX to cool down quicker.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, and that moisture can cause corrosion and buildup inside brake components. Flushing helps protect calipers, brake lines, and sensitive ABS parts from sticking or failing as the vehicle ages. It’s especially important if you plan to keep a car well past 100,000 miles.

Right after a crash, it’s hard to think clearly—and you may not know which shop or insurance requirements apply. One approach is towing to a safe lot/yard first so you have time to choose a shop and coordinate with the insurer. It can also push the claim process forward because insurers try to minimize storage time.

Generic scanners can clear codes but may miss manufacturer-specific data and safety faults—especially in systems like airbags and driver assistance. OEM-level tools can access deeper modules, run guided tests, and confirm calibrations that some aftermarket tools can’t. For safety-critical work, the right tool matters.

Modern cars rely on sensors for blind spot monitoring, lane systems, and other safety features, and repairs can change sensor alignment or signal paths. If calibrations are skipped, those systems may not work correctly even if the car “seems fine.” A shop that follows proper calibration procedures is protecting you, your passengers, and everyone on the road.

The episode talked about how recalls aren’t all the same—some are minor, and some affect key safety systems. Examples included backup camera issues, instrument cluster display problems that can hide speed/warning lights, and seat belt latch concerns. If your vehicle is included, schedule the fix promptly and follow any interim safety guidance from the manufacturer.

Coolant’s corrosion inhibitors wear out, and drained coolant can carry debris that circulates through the system. Reusing it can speed up corrosion and cause long-term cooling system damage. Fresh, correct-spec coolant—properly filled and bled—helps protect the engine and components.