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Most Amherst drivers know that regular vehicle maintenance is necessary. They're aware of common tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, brake repair and filter replacement. However, some services can be easily forgotten or overlooked. That is, until a problem arises. Checking your belts and hoses is example we see here at Virginia Select Auto. Here's what you need to know about the belts and hoses in your vehicle's engine.

A serpentine belt is needed in the proper function of such engine parts as the air conditioner compressor, power steering pump, alternator and water water pump. 

When it's time to go back to school, you want your vehicle to be as safe and maintained as possible. Visit Virginia Select Auto to have your vehicle inspected to make sure the tires, windshield wipers, and other major components are in proper working order. This inspection typically includes checking your battery and fluids as well.

An oil change is something else that you might want to consider before going back to school, especially if you've traveled through Amherst quite a bit over the summer. This can help to keep your engine in the best condition and

If your vehicle has been pulling to the left or right lately when driving down Amherst streets, there's a good chance it may be out of alignment. A wheel, or front end, alignment ensures that your vehicle's steering and suspension are properly aligned so that your wheels make optimal contact with the road.

Many of our customers come to us here at Virginia Select Auto with alignment problems. If you drive too long out of alignment, you're risking damage to your tires caused by improper wear. It could also be dangerous to drive a car that's…

You may not fully understand how your car's braking system operates. Yet, ensuring that your brakes work the way they should is crucial for keeping you, your passengers, and other drivers safe. At Virginia Select Auto, we want your safety to come first and foremost. So, do not overlook any problem with your brakes because it may eventually start to harm other components of your car and lead to an accident.

The brake pads and rotors provide most of your car's stopping power. They create the resistance necessary to bring your vehicle to a halt.

Your vehicle contains a range of useful fluids that all require replacing now and then in order to function properly. Brake fluid assists in slowing your car by amplifying the pressure that you create when you put your foot on the brake pedal. As you can imagine, without that fluid working as it should, you’ll have trouble stopping.

Air and moisture find their way into the hydraulic lines over time, diluting the fluid and causing it to break down. Damage to the lines themselves can cause the fluid to drain onto the ground. These and other issues result in…

A transfer case is a car part that splits power from the transmission to the front and rear axles. It enhances off-road capability by allowing you to select different drive modes.

The transfer case sometimes called a T-case or all-wheel drive (AWD) center, is a heavy metal box that sits between your engine and transmission. It has two shafts coming out of it: One connects to the transmission, and the front axle.

Inside the transfer case is a gear set that allows you to select different drive modes. There are four common types of drive modes: 2WD (two-wheel drive), 4WD…

Tire rotations are a simple, low-cost procedure that can help extend the life and performance of your tires. When done correctly, it will even make them last longer. It is the process of changing the position of your tires. For example, you can remove the front tires and replace them with the rear tires.

It helps to ensure that even wear occurs on all four tires so that they remain balanced. Also, rotating your tires helps to avoid uneven tread wear, which can result in a bumpy ride and poor handling.

Many Amherst drivers are already well-aware of the importance of having durable, well-maintained tires during the rain season. Properly inflated tires that have a deep tread will have a greater likelihood of maintaining traction on wet roads. At Virginia Select Auto, we're eager to share two surprising ways to further reduce your risk of hydroplaning.

Trail Another Driver

Avoiding standing bodies of water is another easy way to avoid hydroplaning. However, when traveling through puddles cannot be prevented, try to follow in the tracks of the vehicle in front of you. After their 

We all know that good maintenance is the best way to ensure our vehicles are in good shape and running as they should. Eventually, all vehicles have issues and need service. Some issues are small, while others can become very serious if not corrected. An engine overheating is typically a serious issue because it can lead to engine failure. However, there are many reasons why your vehicle’s engine might be overheating.

• Cooling system failure is the most common cause of engine overheating. This could be lack of coolant or a leak.
• Radiator issues are also a common cause for…

This is a good season for towing, and our expertise at Virginia Select Auto can help you tow safely.

Towing properly starts with a plan, and your towing plan begins with your vehicle's gross combined weight rating. You can find this online or in your vehicle's manual. Please look up your specific trim configuration's GCWR because the rating can vary across a model's range. A vehicle's GCWR includes everything the engine must pull, so don't forget about your passengers' weight.

Next, plan the route you'll drive. Use online resources or your vehicle's…