Timing Belt: Keeping Systems Flowing the Right Way

A timing belt is a critical element of any vehicle because it regulates how that vehicle will perform. The timing belt is the essential component necessary to regulate the flow of air and gas into and out of the engine. Anything off on the timing of this process, and the driver could have a very big problem on their hands.

There are numerous critical elements that go into making a vehicle run just perfectly. One of the elements is the regulation of the flow of air to various elements of that vehicle. A lot of people don't realize this…

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Engine Cooling and Radiator Service

If your car has been running hot, that could be a sign that your radiator or engine cooling system needs to be serviced. The purpose of your vehicle’s cooling fluid is to circulate through your vehicle’s engine and radiator to keep it cool. When your coolant system malfunctions, your vehicle will begin to overheat.

If your vehicle’s coolant system has been malfunctioning, don’t worry. We are here to support your vehicle’s needs. When your vehicle is running hot, you may need a coolant flush. A coolant flush or radiator flush, is done professionally by a…

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Selecting a Safe Car for Your Teen

Hendrick MINI recommends that families buy affordable and reliable vehicles for their teenage drivers. From sporty sedans to versatile crossover sport utility vehicles, this auto dealership sells a large variety of inexpensive models. Clients are encouraged to ask about the safety ratings, mechanical specifications, and other information relating to the inventory.

The average teen will feel quite confident behind a car that has high ratings from the IIHS, which carefully evaluates various safety aspects of the latest models.  

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Is it Time to Refinance Your Car or Trade it in?

You may be wondering if it's in your financial best interests to refinance your car loan. You might also wonder if you should trade in your vehicle. There are certainly pros and cons to each choice, and the one you pick will need to reflect your particular financial situation.

An aging car is a liability in more ways than one. If your car is not long for this world, you'll have trouble refinancing it, as lenders view it as a risky investment. You're better off trading it in for a different model. 

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Take the Appropriate Steps After a Car Accident

Even if you are shaken up after an accident, you need to take certain steps to get help to the scene and to document it appropriately. Here at Hendrick MINI, we want you to be safe out on the road. That's why we offer these steps to take after you are in a car accident.

Get medical help for anyone who is injured. Call 911 immediately if you find anyone injured. Next, make things as safe as possible. Get cars to the emergency lane if possible. If not, put out flares or reflective triangles to warn oncoming traffic. Anyone…

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How to Win the Battle Against Glare

Driver safety is a top priority at Hendrick MINI, and we want you to know the different ways to react to the sun's glare. If you can, it may be a good idea to drive after the sun has fully risen or after it has fully set.

This is because glare is at its worst during the early morning and late evening hours. Glare can also be difficult if you are driving east to west as that is the path that the sun takes as it rises and sets. However, you can reduce the harmful effects of the sun…

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Give First Responders Room

All of us at Hendrick MINI encourage you to give police and other first responders extra room when you see them stopped in the breakdown lane for any reason. In fact, it's the law. We will explain.

Every state in America has a Move Over Law. South Carolina created the first one in 1996. Each state's Move Over Law is unique, but they all place the same general expectation on you. When you approach police officers, other public employees and motorists who are stopped on a highway, you must move over one lane. 

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Upgrade Your Commute With Android Auto

Android Auto is the latest in-vehicle technology to take over your infotainment center. Android Auto makes it possible to manage calls, send messages and use all of your favorite apps with fewer distractions. Hendrick MINI wants you to get the most out of your vehicle, so we're going to tell you everything you need to know about Android Auto.

Infotainment centers were designed to make driving more enjoyable while reducing distractions. Android Auto takes that principle one step further by mirroring the apps on your phone or tablet to your infotainment center. 

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Preventing Rodent Damage in Your Vehicle

The littlest things can sometimes cause the most trouble. That seems to be the case with mice, rats, and other rodents who can get in your vehicle and damage important components with their teeth. To keep them away, there are a few things that we at Hendrick MINI recommend to our customers.

Rodents need to eat, and they like having small, cozy spaces to rest in. Nooks and crannies in garages and the landscaping around driveways is often perfect for them. To reduce the likelihood of rodent issues, maintain a tidy area and set traps if you notice droppings or…

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Tips to Help Control Odors in Your Vehicle

Don't let offensive odors take over your brand new vehicle. Follow these simple tips to help keep your vehicle fresh and clean for years to come.

If you smell something out of the ordinary in your vehicle, take a look around. Clean out old food wrappers, garbage, bottles, papers, etc. Try to keep your vehicle clean at all times. A dirty vehicle can quickly attract pests and rodents. 

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