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If you have ever gotten a flat, then you know the initial panic of not being able to get where you are going on time. You don't have to worry about that if you know how to change your tire and replace with a spare. All you need is a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and wheel wedges. Alternatively, you may want to have a can of Fix-A-Flat or a flat tire repair kit as well. This can help in emergency situations when you need to get to the shop fast.

Once you have placed the wheel wedges, you…

The scorching temperatures in summer and the frigid cold temperatures in winter are draining to the battery of a vehicle. To check the voltage on your battery, you will need to have a voltmeter. The following steps will assist you in monitoring your vehicle's battery.

• Turn off the ignition and all the lights on your vehicle.
• Connect the voltmeters red lead to the positive battery terminal and the black lead to the negative terminal. 

If the fuel pump in your vehicle is about to fail, you can spot the trouble easily if you know what to look for. Let the BMW parts experts here at BMW of Birmingham help you notice the signs of a failing fuel pump.

1. When traveling at higher speeds, if the fuel pump is about to fail, you'll feel the engine sputtering like you are just about to run out of fuel.
2. If you are trying to tow something or haul something very heavy, signs of fuel pump trouble will reveal itself when the vehicle loses power and can…

Here at BMW of Birmingham, we have a professional service department staff that is always happy to take care of all your car maintenance needs. We encourage you to learn more about how your vehicle works and how to recognize problems when they arise.

Your vehicle's transmission is an important part that uses special gears to allow your engine to power your wheels. Keeping your transmission in good repair with fresh fluid is essential for good vehicle performance. 

If you are hesitant about checking your car, then one of the reasons that should motivate you is the cost of replacement parts. Even more importantly, checking the cooling system is sort of a step that should never be missed.

Overheating a car engine is never a small problem, because it could result in replacement of cylinder heads and head gasket repairs. Both of these parts, plus labor, easily runs into thousands of dollars. 

Your windshield wipers are an important component on your vehicle during the winter and they work best according to the type of fluid you choose to use with the system. The fluid in your windshield wiper reservoir keeps your lines clear and should never be filled with water. Unfortunately, if you choose to fill your reservoir with plain water, you may discover that it freezes over. Windshield washer fluid is meant to maintain a certain temperature during the arctic chill.

Windshield washer fluid rids your car of debris, bugs, and dirt particles. 

Your windshield wipers are an important component on your vehicle during the winter and they work best according to the type of fluid you choose to use with the system. The fluid in your windshield wiper reservoir keeps your lines clear and should never be filled with water. Unfortunately, if you choose to fill your reservoir with plain water, you may discover that it freezes over. Windshield washer fluid is meant to maintain a certain temperature during the arctic chill.

Windshield washer fluid rids your car of debris, bugs, and dirt particles. 

Irrespective of the amount of care and maintenance that is done on a car, automobile headlights have problems once in a while. However, they are somewhat easy to fix at home or with the assistance of a seasoned professional. 

Use these travel safety tips to keep your holiday travels seamless: https://t.co/5qZkhGa2AJ pic.twitter.com/RpDvAnd4g2

— Cars.com (@carsdotcom) December 24, 2016

Winter is fast approaching in many parts of the country, and that means that the time for driving in inclement weather is upon us. It's a good idea to bring your car or truck to BMW of Birmingham to have some important seasonal maintenance done before you head out on your cross-country travel to visit with family.

Your car needs fluids just as much people do, and keeping clean and appropriate levels in your car times extends the life of your vehicle. Next time you’re in the area, see us for a test drive! Here at BMW of Birmingham, we care about your safety.

As a responsible car owner, keeping yourself informed about the different fluids used in vehicles can save you a trip to the mechanic.