Safely Warming up your Vehicle, Increasing Complexity of Vehicles, Keep Fluids Fresh
WCCO's Car Care
WCCO's Car Care Feb 7, 2026
Safely Warming up your Vehicle, Increasing Complexity of Vehicles, Keep Fluids Fresh

Safely Warming up your Vehicle, Increasing Complexity of Vehicles, Keep Fluids Fresh

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Safely Warming up your Vehicle, Increasing Complexity of Vehicles, Keep Fluids Fresh
Ford F150S
Car

Ford F150S

The Ford F-150 is a popular truck that can be used for many tasks, like hauling and towing. The 2014 version has different engine choices and some modern features.

Term

fuses

Fuses are small devices that help protect your car's electrical system. If too much electricity flows through, the fuse will break and stop the electricity, preventing damage.

Honda Civic
Car

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a small car that is popular for being dependable and getting good gas mileage. The 2017 version has a stylish look and comes with different engine choices.

Term

CVT transmission

A CVT transmission is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps the car use fuel more efficiently. It can change gears smoothly without the noticeable shifts of regular automatic transmissions.

Term

actuator

An actuator is a part that helps move things in your car, like the locks on your doors or the vents for heating and cooling. It works by using electricity to make things move.

Part

electric solenoid

An electric solenoid is a small device that uses electricity to pull or push something. It's often found in car locks and helps them open and close automatically.

Term

powered door locks

Powered door locks are locks that you can control with a button instead of having to turn a key. They make it easier to lock and unlock your car doors.

Term

climate control

Climate control is the system in your car that keeps it warm or cool. It helps you adjust the temperature and airflow to make your ride comfortable.

Term

brake caliper

The brake caliper is a part of the car's braking system that holds the brake pads. If small rocks or dirt get stuck in it, it can make a loud scraping noise when you try to stop the car.

Term

brake pads

Brake pads are the parts that press against the wheels to help stop the car. They wear out over time and need to be checked to make sure they are still thick enough to work properly.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Car

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a large truck that can be used for many tasks, like hauling or towing. It's popular for its strength and ability to handle tough jobs.

Part

air filter

The air filter keeps dirt and dust from getting into the engine, which helps the engine run better. If it gets too dirty, it can cause problems, so it's good to check it regularly.

Term

routine safety inspection

A routine safety inspection is when a mechanic checks your car to make sure it's safe to drive. They look at important parts like brakes and lights.

Term

wear and tear items

Wear and tear items are the parts of a car that get used up over time and need to be fixed or replaced. Examples include brakes and tires, which wear down as you drive.

Part

brakes

Brakes are the parts of a car that help it slow down or stop. They can wear out quickly if you drive in heavy traffic or stop a lot.

Saturn
Car

Saturn

Saturn was a car brand that made vehicles known for being easy to maintain and reliable. It was part of General Motors but stopped making cars in 2010.

Jeep Cherokee
Car

Jeep Cherokee

The Jeep Cherokee is a type of SUV known for being tough and good for off-road driving. It has been around for many years and comes with different engine choices, including a six-cylinder engine.

Term

fuel economy

Fuel economy is how far a car can go on a certain amount of fuel. Better fuel economy means you can drive longer without needing to fill up, which saves money and is better for the environment.

Car

Chevrolet 1956

The 1956 Chevrolet is a classic car that many people admire for its unique design and history. It's a popular choice among car enthusiasts and collectors.

Term

choke

A choke helps start the engine by making the fuel mixture richer, which is especially useful when it's cold outside. In older cars, you often had to adjust it by hand.

Term

transmission fluid

Transmission fluid is a liquid that helps your car's gears work smoothly. It's important to change it regularly to keep the transmission in good shape.

Part

rotor

The rotor is a round metal piece that spins with your car's wheels. When you press the brakes, the brake pads squeeze it to help stop the car.

Kia Rondo
Car

Kia Rondo

The Kia Rondo is a small van-like car that has a lot of room inside for passengers and cargo. It's a good choice for people who want a practical vehicle that doesn't cost too much.

Term

SXM radio

SXM radio is a type of satellite radio that gives you lots of channels to listen to, but it can sometimes have problems getting a signal, especially in certain areas.

GMC Yukon Denali
Buick Enclave
Car

Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and cargo. It's designed for families and has many features to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

Part

wiper arm

The wiper arm is the metal piece that holds the wiper blade. It moves the blade to wipe the water off the windshield so you can see better.

Acura Tsx
Car

Acura Tsx

The Acura TSX is a car made by the Acura brand, which is a luxury division of Honda. It's known for being reliable and fun to drive, especially for a compact car.

Term

drive by wire

Drive by wire means that instead of a physical cable connecting the gas pedal to the engine, there are sensors and motors that control how much air and fuel goes into the engine. This makes the car respond better when you press the gas pedal.

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