Complete Care For Your Vehicle

Wheel bearings are something most vehicle owners don't pay much attention to. However, when they go bad they can cause a multitude of problems. Wheel bearings are necessary for the hub, tire, and wheel assemblies to work together. And for them to function properly they need to be in almost perfect condition, have adequate lubrication, and be sealed to keep the lubricant in and everything else out. Wheel bearings should last a long time, however, premature failure often results from damage due to impact, loss of grease, contaminants, or a combination of these things. Problems with your wheel bearings can also affect your vehicle's anti lock brake system (ABS). 

Commons Signs You Have A Wheel Bearing Problem Include:

1. Noise coming from the wheel or tire area
2. Vehicle is "loose".  This refers to the steering of the vehicle
3. Vehicle begins to pull to one side
4. Uneven tire wear

If you feel like you may be experiencing problems with your wheel bearings, don't wait until a wheel comes off your vehicle at a high speed which could be disastrous. Bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto Service and let us put you at ease. 

Unfortunately from time to time problems with our exterior/interior windows can occur. Normally it comes from someone hitting our mirror while you're not around. And unfortunately when that happens a replacement one must be installed. Fortunately, mirrors are a relatively easy and inexpensive repair. However, they must be done for your vehicle to pass state inspection. Not only that, but for your safety, your passenger's safety, and the safety of others on the road you don't want to put this off as it could lead to a bad accident.      

The same can be said for your doors. Problems with your vehicle's doors normally come from the electronic aspect of it. Your auto lock stops working, the windows don't roll up, or your exterior mirrors won't adjust. If you have one of these problems don't take it to the dealer where you'll likely pay far more than you should. Bring it to the professionals at Halls Tire & Auto Service and we'll get you set up good as new and for much less than a dealer. 

Your vehicle's cooling system is one of the most important parts of your engine. And if not properly taken care of it can lead to overheating and even more serious damage like total engine failure. The primary job of the cooling system is to keep the engine from overheating by transferring the heat that the gas in your vehicle produces into air. 

The engine in your vehicle runs best at a fairly high temperature. And when the engine is cold, parts wear out faster and the engine doesn't run as efficient. So another important job of the cooling system is to allow the engine to heat up as quickly as possible, and then keep the engine at a consistent temperature. This will prolong the life of the engine and reduce the possible risk of inadequate cooling system maintenance. Driving habits, the type of antifreeze you use, and extreme outside temperatures will determine how often your radiator needs to be flushed. 

Why do you need a cooling system flush?

• Removal of Rust -   Rust can build up in your radiator over time
• Need for New Antifreeze - New antifreeze that contains new additives will help prevent rust from forming in the radiator again
• Inspection - We'll check for possible leaks in the radiator that could lead to more damage
• Pump Lubrication - Keeps the water pump running longer and better
• Removal of Contaminants that cause the coolant to lose it's anti corrosive properties

If your car is experiencing any overheating or cooling issues don't wait until it's too late and your engine suffers. Bring it to the professionals at Halls Tire & Auto Service and let us diagnose and fix the problem before more serious issues arise. 

Anyone who's lived in VA for any period of time knows how bad the heat and humidity gets in the Summer. Bad enough to where it's not uncommon for the local meteorologists to issue ozone warnings and recommend that people do nothing outside when it's that hot. Only problem with that is we still need to go places and do things despite the heat. And if our vehicle's air conditioning isn't working it can make for a miserable day.

Vehicle air conditioners rarely give signs they're about to fail. And drivers may feel the air coming out of their vents isn't that cool but they just attribute that to the heat. And a defective air conditioner not only affects you and your passengers, but it can also damage your vehicle's internal systems. Things like leaking coolant can seriously damage the interior of your engine.  

Early detection of a failing AC can save you a lot of time and money. Often times it can be as simple as just replacing fluid which takes us very little time. However, if the problem isn't addressed soon enough it can develop into a more expensive repair like a complete compressor replacement. And repairs like this are not only expensive but can result in you having to leave your vehicle at our shop for a day or 2.  

Signs your AC is failing

• Diminishment in the cooling level
• AC is making unusual noises while running
• Strange odor coming out of the events 
• Water pools inside your vehicle after running the AC

If your car is experiencing any of these symptoms don't wait! Waiting can cause serious problems and be very expensive.  Bring it to the professionals at Halls Tire & Auto Service and let us diagnose and fix the problem asap.  

In today's technological and fast paced world we rely on computers everyday to help us navigate our day. From your phone to your laptop, tablet or even your watch we just can't do without them. Well today's automobiles are the same way. Computers control everything from your alternator to your starter, air conditioner, navigation system and everything in between. And while batteries, alternators, fuses and wiring operate under the same principles as they always have been, there are a lot more details attached to modern cars. The bottom line is when these complex electrical systems go bad the need for an experienced auto mechanic that's well versed in all aspects of electrical repair is now a must. At Hall's Tire & Auto we're that mechanic you can trust for any type of electrical repair. We use specialized equipment to tap into your vehicle's computer and locate the cause of the problem. 

Signs of Electrical Problems:

• Vehicle won't start and you hear nothing when you turn the key
• Dim headlights when you're idling or driving slowly
• Dashboard/Interior lights are dim

If you're experiencing any electrical problems don't stress and over worry about it. Let us take a look at it and we'll let you know exactly what's needed to fix it. 

Whether you're out on a scenic drive, an important business trip, or you're just running an errand, your steering is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. And if there's a problem it can cause a very serious accident where not only your vehicle is damaged, but potentially other people. This is why it's so critical to have your steering looked at if you think there's a problem brewing. At Hall's Tire & Auto our experienced technicians can pinpoint the problem and get back out on the road in no time.       

What are the signs that indicate you have a steering problem?  

• Your power steering isn't working well and the wheel is very difficult to turn
• Bad vibration in the steering wheel
• Steering wheel slips when you attempt a turn
• Looseness in steering wheel
• Vehicle pulls to one side

These are common symptoms of a steering problem. If you're vehicle is experiencing one of these problems, bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto and let us put our experienced technicians and high tech equipment to work for you.  

The suspension on your vehicle is the system of tires, tire air, springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects a vehicle to it's wheels and allows relative motion between the two. Suspension systems must support both road holding/handling and ride quality which are at odds with each other. Your suspension provides driving comfort by making bumps smoother. It also gives you more traction by keeping the wheels on the ground as much as possible. Over time parts of your suspension like shocks, struts, springs, tier rods or ball joints will begin to wear out or break completely. When this happens it can cause you to lose complete control of your car. This is why it's crucial to get your car looked at if you feel like you're having suspension problems.   

What are common signs of a suspension problem?

• Car rides very rough and bumps are felt more
• Drifts or pulls during turns
• "Dips" when stopping 
• Uneven tire wear 
• Damaged shocks

Don't wait until it's too late and you have a serious accident as a result of a suspension problem.  Bring it to us at Hall's Tire & Auto and we'll analyze, correct, and get you back on the road.

Tire management is vital to your vehicle's overall performance. And driving on worn out tires can lead to a lot of possible dangers. Worn out tires are proven to adversely affect a vehicle's ability to brake efficiently and effectively. In addition worn tires are not able to grip roads that are icy and slick which can lead to dangerous crashes. Worn tires also are more susceptible to punctures which can lead to blowouts. Worn tires lose air pressure quicker thus affecting things like fuel economy, braking, and steering. To make sure your vehicle avoids these possible scenarios it's best to keep the tire tread depth at a minimum of 4/32.       

At Hall's Tire & Auto we provide a wide array of tire services while working on all the major brands.  

Our Tire Services Include:

• Replacement
• Repair 
• Flat Tire Service
• Rotation
• Mounting 
• Balancing

We Represent most of the major brands including:

• Authorized Falken Distributor
• Michelin
• BF Goodrich
• Uniroyal
• Goodyear
• Firestone
• Yokohama
• And many others

So whether you have a flat tire, worn out tires, a punctured tire, or any other tire problem bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto and we'll get you set up good as new. 

Power steering is the system for steering that uses the power from the engine to make it easier to steer a vehicle. Most power steering systems use fluid pressure to assist the driver in turning the front wheels. If you're having trouble turning your vehicle it's likely you're low on power steering fluid. And low steering fluid can lead to the pump running dry which can damage the pump and thus the entire system. You do not want this to happen as it can obviously lead to a costly repair. 

Signs of a power steering problem?

• Whining noise while turning the wheel
• Steering wheel responds too slow
• Stiff steering wheel
• Squealing and groaning noises

If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of experiencing one or more of these problems do not wait until it's too late. Just bring it in to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto and we'll fix it and get you back on the road in no time. 

A shock absorber has one simple purpose. And that's to keep the car from bouncing. Struts on the other hand provide support for the vehicle's suspension. Shock absorbers give you better handling while struts affect riding comfort as well as control, braking, steering, wheel alignment and wear on other components including the tires. So how often do shocks and struts need to be replaced? This very much depends on your driving conditions but as a rule of thumb most experts agree they should be replaced every 50000 to 100000 miles. Driving on bad shocks and struts can lead to a variety of problems. Most notably bad shocks and struts increase your stopping distance which can lead to some bad crashes.

Signs of bad shocks and struts?

• Instability on the highway
• Vehicle "tips" to one side during turns 
• Front end rises during acceleration while rear end "squats".   
• Excessive tire bouncing
• Tread wears in a wavy manner instead of evenly
• Fluid on shocks and struts 

Faulty and failing shocks and struts are not to be taken lightly. When you see signs of failing shocks and struts bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto and we'll take care of it for you.   

Your vehicle's exhaust system primarily carries waste gases and other combustion products away from the engine. It also allows the vehicle to operate with minimal noise, smoke and pollution. It works by collecting exhaust gases from the cylinder head in the engine via an exhaust manifold. The manifold acts as a funnel, diverting exhaust gases from all cylinders of the engine then releases them through a single opening often referred to as the front pipe. These gases are harmful to humans and the environment so it's essential that your vehicle's exhaust system is functioning properly.      

How do I know if there's a problem with my exhaust system:

• Loud exhaust making hissing noises 
• Smell of gas from exhaust
• Decrease in power, acceleration and fuel economy 
• Dragging exhaust pipe

Problems with your exhaust can escalate to a serious problem if you let it go for too long. Don't let it come to that. Bring it to the specialists at Hall's Tire & Auto and let us fix whatever issues you're having.  

The timing belt in your vehicle is a rubber belt that synchronizes the actions of the camshaft and crankshaft to keep your valves safely moving and your engine running. On newer cars timing belts will normally last somewhere around 100000 miles. Older vehicles typically have a replacement need around 60000 miles. The main cause of timing belts going bad is the engine component will get hot causing the belt to lose it's strength and texture thus facilitating a break and the water pump fails due to lack of coolant system maintenance.     

How do you know it's time for the timing belt to be replaced:

1. Your mechanic will recommend replacement due to time and mileage
2. Water pump leakage
3. Loud "pop" and then the vehicle is inoperable 
4. Timing tensioner leakage

The timing belt can become much more expensive if it's not replaced at the right time. If the belt snaps your vehicle will have to be towed. And if that snapped belt causes the valves to bend you could be looking at a total engine replacement. So you can see why it's essential to get this taken care of before disaster happens. Bring it to us at Hall's Tire & Auto and we promise to fix the problem at the most economical means to you.   

Your vehicle's headlights are vital to safe and successful driving at night. And over time headlights burn out and the electrical system that powers those lights fail. When this happens don't drive with one headlight out and put yourself in danger from things like deer and other vehicles. Even something as simple as fading headlights can put you at risk. Bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto and let us replace those headlights for you.  

Replacing headlights can be a difficult and 

cumbersome task for the average person. And the last thing you want are your headlight installed incorrectly as this can cause a financial burden to you.  

The heater core in your vehicle is a small radiator located under the dashboard consisting of conductive aluminum and brass tubing with cooling fins. Hot coolant passing through the heater core produces heat before returning to the engine cooling circuit. The primary job of the heater core is to provide heat for the interior of the vehicle. And because it's behind the dashboard it's a real problem when repair is needed. Most mechanics hate doing this type of repair. At Hall's Tire & Auto this is not a problem at all. We've replaced a ton of heater cores.      

How do I know if the heater core is going bad?  

1. It gets foggy in your car
2. Odd smell in the vehicle
3. Passenger side is very chilly
4. Vehicle is going through a lot of coolant
5. Interior of the vehicle is cold but the engine is hot

When you experience any of these issues don't wait until it's too late. This could lead to cracked engine cylinders and serious engine damage which could result in thousands of dollars worth of repairs.   

It's state inspection time for your vehicle! And this doesn't have to be something you have to worry about. However, it is necessary as you can be given a citation by the police if you're not displaying your inspection sticker. We have certified inspectors that will check your vehicle and we promise we won't fail you for something that's not part of the inspection process.       

What's covered in a VA State Inspection?

1. Brakes
2. Lights & Signals
3. Windows & Wipers
4. Tires
5. Steering & Suspension
6. Fuel & Exhaust Systems
7. Seat Belts
8. Mirrors

State inspections literally only take a few minutes after we bring your vehicle in. So when it's that time bring it to the professionals at Hall's Tire and Auto and we'll get you passed and back on the road in no time. 

Your vehicle's battery is a rechargeable battery that supplies electrical current to the vehicle. It's main purpose is to feed the starter which starts the engine. Once the engine is running the alternator takes over and provides the electricity that powers the electrical systems. A typical battery on average will last 3 to 5 years, however, that life can be shortened due to extreme weather and improper maintenance. If you're having any trouble with your battery, the professionals at Hall's Tire & Auto have all the latest equipment to check your battery out and see if a replacement is needed. 

Signs your battery is going bad:

1. Slow starting engine
2. Dim lights and electrical issues
3. Check engine light is on
4. Unusual and bad smell
5. Corroded connectors
6. Old battery

We service all types of batteries for all types of vehicles. Bring your vehicle in today and let us set you up with a new battery. 

So that dreaded check engine light has come on in your vehicle. This warning light can represent a variety of different concerns. It can be as simple as a loose gas cap or a potentially more concerning problem like a malfunctioning cylinder. The check engine light will let you know what part of the vehicle the problem is coming from but it won't tell you the exact problem. This is where having a reputable shop look at your vehicle is key. At Hall's Tire & Auto we'll follow that code all the way to the source and let you know exactly what the issue is. And once the issue is diagnosed we'll then  give you some estimates of the proper repairs needed to restore your vehicle to it's peak condition. Our experienced technicians and state of the art computer testing equipment is the best in the industry and we're sure you'll be satisfied with the results.   

Regular preventative maintenance is the best way to save money on auto repair as well as simple, avoidable mechanical problems which can arise by neglecting and putting off these important services. Regular check ups have proven to show that this extends the life of your vehicle. At Hall's Tire and Auto we cover all the preventative maintenance services that your vehicle needs to help keep you at ease about the performance of your car or truck.     

Our complete maintenance services include:

• We feature BG products 
• Coolant Flushes
• Power Steering Flushes
• 30000/60000/90000 Mile Maintenance
• Timing Belt Replacement. We love them!

Whatever preventative maintenance service your vehicle needs bring it to the experts at Hall's Tire & Auto. Your vehicle will never be in better hands.  

So what is brake line replacement? Brake lines carry the brake fluid from the master cylinder of your vehicle to the brakes. Over time due to excessive use these lines will wear out and need to be replaced. When this happens the line needs to be removed from the main cylinder and the brakes themselves and replaced with a new hose. Once the hose is installed the brakes will need to be "bleeded" to remove any air that has gotten into the line. This is very important to get the best performance from your brakes.   

So how will you know when it's time to have your brake lines replaced? 

Here are some important signs that will alert you that it's time to have this done:

1. Less Resistance on the brakes when you push down
2. Loss of brake fluid
3. Rust on the brake lines
4. Cracked or worn brake lines

When you see any of these signs don't wait til it's too late. Bring your vehicle into Hall's Tire & Auto and we'll take care of it so you don't have to worry. 

Having fully functioning brakes on your vehicle is crucial to your safety, your passenger's safety, and to the safety of other drivers on the road. And knowing when those brakes are going bad is very important to your vehicle's overall performance. At Hall's Tire & Auto we can identify exactly when your brakes need routine service or need to be replaced altogether.  

Our Brake Services Include:

• Pads
• Rotors
• Calipers
• Master Cylinders/Wheel Cylinders
• Brake Lines
• ABS Sensors

Problems with your brakes will display warning signs letting you know something is wrong.  

Some of the more common signs you'll see that indicate you need brake service include:

1. Squeaking or grinding noise
2. Your vehicle pulls to one side when braking
3. Brake pedal goes all the way to the floor when applying brakes
4. Service Indicator light turns on

If you're experiencing any problems with your brakes bring it by our shop or call us today at (804) 285-3717 and let one of our experienced technicians take a look and diagnose the issue.  We promise to get you back on the road in a timely fashion.