Your car’s steering wheel lets you maneuver the vehicle, so when this component fails to engage properly, your safety is at risk. Trying to turn or even change lanes when the steering system feels slow to respond (or locks up), indicates a dangerous issue that needs righting as soon as possible. Interestingly, the steering wheel…

Many vehicle makers claim that their cars come with spark plugs offering an extended lifespan that can last for around 100,000 miles. And while that’s certainly ideal, replacing your spark plugs occasionally is a good thing for your car’s health and a smoother ride. Give Checkpoint Motors, located in Oregon City, Oregon a call at…

All drivers should be aware of their tire pressure in order to get better gas mileage and more importantly, avoid a blowout. If your steering seems a little bit slow as you’re driving, or you feel a little bit lower to the ground than usual, you may need to put air in your tires. But…

The introduction of synthetic oil into the auto service industry confused many consumers. People wondered if synthetic oil was really better for their vehicle than standard oil. They also wondered if it really was worth the cost – almost double that of standard oil. Checkpoint Motors is here to clear up some of that confusion,…

Many of our customers ask us if they should believe the gasoline commercials they see on TV. Is one brand of gasoline better than another? Can cheap gas really ruin an engine? The answer isn’t as cut and dry as it might seem, but in general terms, yes, the gasoline you buy and pour into…

Since vehicles are made to be driven, cars that sit for long periods should be specially cared for–mainly because inactivity can lead to rust and fluid breakdown. So before you start a car that has had a bit too much rest, follow these steps to prepare it for peak operation. Check Cylinders and Oil An…

If you’ve driven your car for a while and it looks like new tires are in order, you might be wondering how to determine what tires to use for replacements. Of course, you can choose to stick with the same tires you have or go bigger or smaller depending on your driving style and needs.…

If you've ever felt your brakes pulse slightly when you engage them in wet or icy weather, you've witnessed your vehicle's anti-lock brake system (ABS) in action. This rapid sensation means the ABS actuator has stepped in to prevent a skid. As such, this safety feature lets you maintain control of your car in slippery…

Like runners stretch, eat and hydrate before a marathon, so must your vehicle be prepared to last through a road trip. While it’s one thing to be stranded along the roadside in a familiar area, it’s another entirely to end up alone and without a working car in the middle of nowhere. So, before you…

In any season, well-working tires help you drive safely, but this is especially true during winter months when freezing precipitation and falling temperatures increase driving hazards. If you live in an area with long, volatile winters, you might even consider tires specially-designed for cold elements. No matter your location, however, understanding when your tires beg…