Volvo has long been a premium brand worthy of its name, producing top-level vehicles like the S80 V8 Executive, luxury performance cars like the S60R, and the indestructibly solid XC90. These cars...
Your European vehicle is comprised of several thousand components. Most of these are manufactured by a third party that specializes in making that specific component. From electronics to heavy metal pieces there are several manufacturers that specialize in manufacturing and designing specific...
Sometimes, while searching for the next big boost in performance, efficiency, reliability, or any combination of these, we are willing to look into the more exotic and contested technologies that are popping up all around us. However, before sinking lots of time or money into a new product, it's...
It may seem obvious that a coolant leak shouldn't go long without being diagnosed. The chance of over-heating, having to buy top-up coolant, and the spots on your driveway are just a few reasons. But the reality is that coolant leaks are not only messy but can cause damage to parts in the engine...
When it comes time to replace shocks on your European vehicle it may become confusing as to which brand to go with. It sometimes seems like there's a never ending amount of options but Sachs is the brand that stands out when it comes to overall quality and safety. Sachs produces a wide range of...
If you own an E36 M3 the chances are great that your car is consuming a little (or A LOT!) of oil. The range of consumption will vary between people and cars, but for the most part .5-2.5 quarts every 2000 miles is considered "normal," which seems crazy. Where most people get stuck is that their...
Groaning or howling sounds that change with road speed are typical in higher mileage Volvos. Often, a poor alignment can cause tires to wear unevenly and "cup," (Image) which is one reason this noise comes about. But what if you rotate the tires and the sound doesn't change? Most likely, a...
I've been car shopping lately. Having two 90's Volvos has been fun, but I've always had a penchant for technology in my cars and these old steeds are just not doing it for me anymore. Retrofitting bluetooth audio and bi-xenon headlamps into an S70 extended the enjoyability of the car a great deal...
Wandering, clunking, and generally sloppy steering response can point to a number of issues in an E46 BMW, and all of them can lead to worn control arms. These arms contain ball joints, as well as rubber compliance bushings that perish over time and can throw your car out of alignment. Zach...
Automotive engines are a myriad of rubber hoses, vacuum elbows, belts, and bushings. As they wear out, some may fail more catastrophically than others. I've had Volvos with perforated cooling hoses, missing serpentine belts, and rotten engine mounts come through my garage. But not many people...