Blog | Mechanic Tips | Rick & Ray's Auto Plaze in Fort Worth Texas

29 Dec 2021

What Are the Most Common Causes of Collisions?

What are the most common causes of collisions? It’s upsetting to say the least when you get into a collision with your motor vehicle. It can be scary and frustrating, to be sure, but unfortunately, they’re all too common on the roadways in this country. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that driver error causes 94 percent of all car accidents. Check out these top causes of collisions, with many of them needing extensive collision repair. 1. Speeding We’ve all put the pedal to the metal when late for an appointment, work or sports practice pickup. While common, it’s deadly. In fact, speeding increases the risk of all types of collisions, making it the second…

30 Nov 2021

Why Won’t My Car Start?

Why Won't My Car Start? We’ve all been there. You try to start up the car to go to work in the morning and nothing happens. Why isn’t your car starting? The most common issue is either a dead battery or a faulty alternator. Both have similar symptoms but there are ways to determine which one is to blame for your frustrating car troubles. Signs of Battery Problems The common signs of battery problems include: No sound or lights when starting the vehicle Clicking sound when turning the key The engine turns over slowly Weaker than normal headlights Backfiring The need to place your foot on the gas pedal to start the car Sudden, slower start Headlights and power, but…

30 Sep 2021

Alternators: What Are They and What Do They Do?

What are alternators? Your alternator serves an important purpose, as it powers all your car’s electric components such as the radio and headlights. You may wonder how an alternator works and why it’s so vital to the smooth operation of your vehicle. Let’s talk about it. What an Alternator Does Yes, the battery is critical when you want to start your car when it's already off, but the alternator keeps your car going once the engine is up and running. The alternator supplies the following components with direct current (DC) power while driving or idling: Headlights Steering Power windows Windshield wipers Heated seats Radio Dashboard instruments The alternator essentially converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, powering a drive belt attached…

31 Aug 2021

How to Extend the Life of Your Car Battery

A battery is the lifeblood of a car so that is why we want to share how to extend the life of your car battery. Without it, your car won’t move. It’s important to ensure your battery is strong and healthy at all times, to avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere or in your driveway when you really need to get to work. It’s no secret that an unexpected flat battery can lead to a lot of stress and wasted time. Anything from harsh weather conditions to leaving your lights on can contribute to battery drainage. Here are some tips on how to keep your battery from draining prematurely and how you can extend the life of your…

27 Aug 2021

Oil Change 101 in German Cars

Rick & Ray's offers oil changes in German cars. Changing the oil in your car is one of those car maintenance items that many car owners try to take care of themselves. For one, it can save money, and two, it may be more convenient. However, when it comes to changing oil in certain types of cars, especially luxury vehicles, you may want to think twice before you do it yourself due to its complex nature. Rick and Rays can provide oil changes in German Cars. When You Should Change the Oil in Your German Car If you’re a new owner of a luxury German car like a BMW or Mercedes but have been driving for decades, you may think…