What you need to know about zinc dialkyldithiophosphate, or ZDDP, in engine oil and why it matters – or doesn't, depending on your car
Oil. When it comes time for a change, most of us just wheel into the nearest lube joint or dealership and get it done by someone else. The do-it-yourselfer who breaks out the tool kit, jacks up the front end, rolls up their sleeves and changes their own oil is becoming something of an endangered…
All Minit Lube centres are expected to be rebranded as Valvoline Great Canadian Oil Change
Valvoline Inc., a leading worldwide supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services, is acquiring certain business assets of Minit Lube in Alberta. The company said in a news release that it will acquire four service centres, which will become Valvoline company-owned stores. They will franchise the remaining two service centres to the existing owner.…
The MX-5 has better handling and braking, a much more appropriate engine, better rust resistance and a manageable soft-top
In its 18-year production run – from 1962 to 1980 – the MGB was purchased by more than half a million people. It was – and still is – one of the most successful two-seaters ever made and, even today, stands up well. There are still thousands of them around the world and the parts/service…
The people who attend these events – and those who bring the cars – are getting older
It’s almost a cultural cliché these days. The old cars roll in and park, their drivers set up folding chairs or start polishing, the hot dog and hamburger vendors start cooking, someone puts on some Chuck Berry or Bill Haley, and the people file in to gaze at vintage and classic automobiles. Sometimes they’re British…
Beware con artists, smoothies, carpetbaggers, excuse-makers and truth-stretchers
A few months ago, I got the chance to take my own advice and put my money where my mouth is. My daughter needed a cheap but decent used car – something sensible, with back door/seat access and a decent-sized trunk. Budget: $5,000 max. Here are some of the cars we checked out: 2003 BMW…
Electronic ignitions, new carburetors, synthetic lubricating fuels, eBay and collector car insurance all play a role
Like pets and people, cars need to be exercised regularly, especially those with a few miles on them. If those old bones and joints aren’t given a regular workout, they deteriorate. Rubber gets brittle, oil loses its viscosity, gas sheds its octane and moving parts become arthritic. Cars aren’t couch potatoes – they like it…
PARTNER CONTENT In the competitive and noisy world of automobile sales and service, how do you stand out? Precision Hyundai has a simple answer. The secret ingredient has been a standalone, family owned and operated business that has advocated family values — respect, communication and transparency — throughout the dealership from Day 1. Now celebrating…
We shouldn't have to count on government to force common-sense solutions. But drivers can't seem to figure it out for themselves
Canada has experienced many cold, harsh winters. That’s why we check the weather forecasts, dress warmly, shovel plenty of snow, and take extra care when we’re on the streets and highways. You know what? Scratch that last one off the list. There are far too many drivers in Canada who don’t put winter tires on…
Dan Harper of Harper’s Tire tells us what it takes to compete against huge operations. And why getting good service when it comes to tires is important
Dan Harper is co-owner of Harper’s Tire in Calgary. What’s the history behind Harper’s Tire and how it began in Calgary? Harper: My grandfather, J.M. Harper, opened the original store on 12th Avenue S.W. in 1931. During the war years, tires were rationed so repairs and custom retreading was a large part of the business.…
Here are the essential steps you need to take now to ensure that your bike is in top shape after the snow melts
The sun is shining and the weather has never been lovelier (in my part of the country). Nonetheless, it’s time to start thinking about storing your bike for the winter. And by that I don’t mean putting it up on the kick stand, stashing it in a corner of the garage and just forgetting about…