# Matthews Tire > Tires and Auto Repair Services in Appleton, WI ## Posts - [Winter Weather Driving Tips to Keep Your Car Merry and Bright All Season](https://www.matthewstire.com/winter-weather-driving-tips-to-keep-your-car-merry-and-bright-all-season/): Tis the season for winter driving, which means dangerous road conditions, hazards and more. Even experienced Wisconsinites need a reminder... - [Straight Talk on Wheel Alignment](https://www.matthewstire.com/straight-talk-on-wheel-alignment/): As the spring thaw melts winter away, all kinds of new things are exposed ... including bothersome potholes on the... - [Your Complete Spring-Cleaning Checklist](https://www.matthewstire.com/your-complete-spring-cleaning-checklist/): If you’re looking for productive ways to fill time at home, now is a great opportunity for spring cleaning! Sanitization... - [How Do You Spring Clean Your Car? Plus, the Benefits of Pre-Trip Inspections](https://www.matthewstire.com/how-do-you-spring-clean-your-car-plus-the-benefits-of-pre-trip-inspections/): Ahh, summertime. No doubt you’re ready for summer road trips, but is your vehicle? April is one of two National... - [13th Annual Oil Change for the Better Event Supporting Fox Valley Humane Association](https://www.matthewstire.com/13th-annual-oil-change-for-the-better-event-supporting-fox-valley-humane-association/): At Matthews Tire, giving back to the community and supporting worthy causes is at the heart of what we do.... - [Matthews Tire Gifts $15,000 to Fox Valley Humane Association After Oil Change for the Better](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-gifts-5000-to-fox-valley-humane-association-after-oil-change-for-the-better/): With the dedication of the Matthews Tire team and the backing from our communities, this year’s Oil Change for the... - [Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires](https://www.matthewstire.com/winter-tires-vs-all-season-tires/): Shovels. Hats and mittens. Puffy coats. There are endless essentials that can help you make it through the winter. What... - [Do I need to warm up my car?](https://www.matthewstire.com/do-i-need-to-warm-up-my-car/): Winter driving in Wisconsin comes with challenges. In addition to the unpredictable weather patterns, snow and ice ... there’s the... - [Everything You Need to Know About Factory Tires](https://www.matthewstire.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-factory-tires/): When we buy a new or used vehicle, we may wonder if the tires that it came with are optimal.... - [Spreading Awareness on Distracted Driving in Northeastern Wisconsin](https://www.matthewstire.com/spreading-awareness-on-distracted-driving-in-northeastern-wisconsin/): In Northeastern Wisconsin, promoting road safety is a priority we all share. While the challenge of distracted driving persists, there’s... - [DIY Air Conditioner Repair—Why You Should NOT Do This](https://www.matthewstire.com/diy-air-conditioner-repair-why-you-should-not-do-this/): When the summer heat hits and your air conditioner starts blowing only hot air, your instinct may be to reach... - [Wiper Blade FAQ—When to Replace These for Optimal Visibility](https://www.matthewstire.com/wiper-blade-faq-when-to-replace-these-for-optimal-visibility/): When it comes to your vehicle’s wiper blades, replacing them regularly is important. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Green... - [Bad Brakes are Scary: Prevent Expensive Repairs by Replacing Brake Pads on Time](https://www.matthewstire.com/bad-brakes-are-scary-prevent-expensive-repairs-by-replacing-brake-pads-on-time/): It’s easy to overlook or procrastinate on some important regular car maintenance items like replacing brake pads, but letting your... - [Keep Your Battery Charged: What to Know When Your Car Won’t Start](https://www.matthewstire.com/keep-your-battery-charged-what-to-know-when-your-car-wont-start/): We often take for granted that our vehicles will start without a problem, and that’s especially important when the temperatures... - [Give the Gift of Car Maintenance for the Holidays](https://www.matthewstire.com/give-the-gift-of-car-maintenance-for-the-holidays/): We know how the holidays can keep you running—between picking up gifts, shopping for holiday treats or heading to the... - [Do You Need to Warm Up Your Car for it to Work Optimally?](https://www.matthewstire.com/do-you-need-to-warm-up-your-car-for-it-to-work-optimally/): In the cold weather, it’s best to let your vehicle warm up for a few minutes (if only for your... - [Flat Tire 101: How to Change Your Tire and Get a Repair](https://www.matthewstire.com/flat-tire-101-how-to-change-your-tire-and-get-a-repair/): Flat tires can happen unexpectedly, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. Matthews Tire Green Bay Manager Tom... - [Beat the Heat with These Proven Car Air Conditioning Maintenance Techniques](https://www.matthewstire.com/beat-the-heat-with-these-proven-car-air-conditioning-maintenance-techniques/): As the summer season approaches and temperatures rise, it’s crucial to ensure your car’s air conditioning system is in excellent... - [Matthews Tire Raises $16,000 for Take ‘em Outdoors During Oil Change for the Better](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-raises-6000-for-take-em-outdoors-during-oil-change-for-the-better/): The combined efforts of the Matthews Tire team and the loyal support of our communities have once again resulted in... - [Back-to-School Roads: Essential Vehicle Tips for New Drivers](https://www.matthewstire.com/back-to-school-roads-essential-vehicle-tips-for-new-drivers/): With the back-to-school season in full swing, new drivers are hitting the road, eager to embrace their newfound freedom. As... - [Windshield Wiper Guide: How to Find and Install the Best Wiper Blades](https://www.matthewstire.com/windshield-wiper-guide-how-to-find-and-install-the-best-wiper-blades/): As one of the most inexpensive parts on your vehicle, you may not put much thought into your windshield wipers.... - [Winter Tires 101: Benefits, Cost and Everything You Need to Know](https://www.matthewstire.com/winter-tires-101-benefits-cost-and-everything-you-need-to-know/): Find the best winter tires for your vehicle. The holidays are right around the corner ... along with harsh winter... - [6 Possible Reasons Your Car is Shaking and How to Solve These Issues](https://www.matthewstire.com/6-possible-reasons-your-car-is-shaking-and-how-to-solve-these-issues/): Got a shaky car on your hands? There are a number of common car problems that can cause your vehicle... - [Top 5 Benefits of a Radiator Flush, Plus Signs Your Car Needs One](https://www.matthewstire.com/top-5-benefits-of-a-radiator-flush-plus-signs-your-car-needs-one/): If you want your car to stay in the best condition through every season, maintaining your car’s engine is essential.... - [Improve Your Gas Mileage: 5 Tips to Save Money on Gas this Summer](https://www.matthewstire.com/improve-your-gas-mileage-5-tips-to-save-money-on-gas-this-summer/): The weather is heating up, Memorial Day is quickly approaching and Wisconsinites are gearing up for the coming summer. Though... - [5 Expert Car Maintenance Tips to Save Your Car from the Heat](https://www.matthewstire.com/5-expert-car-maintenance-tips-to-save-your-car-from-the-heat/): Without the right preparation, the summer heat can put a lot of stress on your car. Amidst road trips, weekend... - [Matthews Tire Gifts $16,000 to Hand-N-Hand of Northeastern Wisconsin](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-gifts-6000-to-hand-n-hand-of-northeastern-wisconsin/): Thanks to the support of our loyal customers and dedicated team members, Oil Change for the Better 2022 was our... - [Watch out for Deer! Use These 9 Safety Tips to Stay Safe on the Road This Fall](https://www.matthewstire.com/watch-out-for-deer-use-these-9-safety-tips-to-stay-safe-on-the-road-this-fall/): Along with changing leaves and pumpkin carving, fall marks the start of deer season. Most active during October and November,... - [Winter Weather Driving Tips](https://www.matthewstire.com/winter-weather-driving-tips/): When it comes to harsh winter weather and even harsher driving conditions, seasoned Wisconsinites have seen—and braved—it all. We asked... - [Matthews Tire Gifts $8,000 to The Salvation Army After Oil Change for the Better](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-gifts-000-to-the-salvation-army-after-oil-change-for-the-better/): Representatives from The Salvation Army (TSA) accepted an ,000 check from Matthews Tire. Pictured left to right: TSA Waupaca County... - [Driving sustainability in the shop](https://www.matthewstire.com/driving-sustainability-in-the-shop/): Earth Day is just around the corner and serves as a great reminder to appreciate our natural surroundings and do... - [NSC urges public to “just drive”](https://www.matthewstire.com/nsc-urges-public-to-just-drive/): Next time you’re commuting, driving the kids to school or simply running errands, glance at the drivers beside you. How... - [Tips for Towing This Summer](https://www.matthewstire.com/tips-for-towing-this-summer/): When summer hits in Wisconsin so does the traffic. Most are headed to their favorite spots “up north” and many... - [Fast Facts on Cruise Control](https://www.matthewstire.com/fast-facts-on-cruise-control/): Are you on autopilot about cruise control? Many drivers regularly use this standard convenience feature but never venture to understand... - [Windshield Repair and Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/windshield-repair-and-replacement/): Have you ever enjoyed a carefree cruise down the highway only to be suddenly disrupted by a passing truck or... - [When is it time to rotate or replace tires?](https://www.matthewstire.com/when-is-it-time-to-rotate-or-replace-tires/): The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration recently announced that La Niña will continue throughout the winter of 2021. While the... - [Matthews Tire Raises $7,500 for Local Food Pantries](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-raises-500-for-local-food-pantries/): Pictured above: Waupaca Area Food Pantry Board President Linda Holtebeck accepts a donation from Matthews Tire. Six area food pantries... - [Healthy Engine Maintenance](https://www.matthewstire.com/healthy-engine-maintenance/): When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we all know what to do. Regular doctor visits, healthy eating or... - [Experienced Technicians Keep You Rolling](https://www.matthewstire.com/experienced-technicians-keep-you-rolling/): With over seven locations in northeast Wisconsin and a growing reputation for expert service, there’s a secret to the success... - [Matthews Tire Raises $8,000 for Wisconsin Veterans Village Association](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-raises-000-for-wisconsin-veterans-village-association/): (Left to right) Wisconsin Veterans Village Association Director of Development Kimberly Massey and Executive Director John Maino, Matthews Tire Vice... - [We’re Still Open and (Safely) Rolling](https://www.matthewstire.com/were-still-open-and-safely-rolling/): As an automotive maintenance and repair shop, Matthews Tire is considered an essential business. All of our locations are still... - [Experts in ADAS Service](https://www.matthewstire.com/experts-in-adas-service/): Matthews Tire is proud to offer expert ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) service for all vehicle makes and models. Since emerging... - [The Real Reason ASE Certification Matters](https://www.matthewstire.com/the-real-reason-ase-certification-matters/): At Matthews Tire, we regularly promote our services performed by skilled, trained ASE-certified technicians. It sounds impressive, but some customers... - [Get a Grip with New Tires and Wipers This Fall](https://www.matthewstire.com/get-a-grip-with-new-tires-and-wipers-this-fall/): Fall in Wisconsin is a welcome change of pace with football (maybe), crisp mornings and vibrant changing leaves. But with... - [Give Us Your Biggest Gripes!](https://www.matthewstire.com/give-us-your-biggest-gripes/): Matthews Tire Gets Real About Those Pesky—but Necessary—Oil Changes. #1 Oil Changes Take Too Much Time! Think about this ...... - [Matthews Tire Presents $5,000 Donation to the Breast Cancer Family Foundation](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-presents-000-donation-to-the-breast-cancer-family-foundation/): Breast Cancer Family Foundation Executive Director Diane Gaywont (middle) accepts a ,000 donation from Matthews Tire Vice President/HR Manager Debbie... - [Steer Your Holiday Shopping with Vehicle Must-haves](https://www.matthewstire.com/steer-your-holiday-shopping-with-vehicle-must-haves/): Looking for new and different gifts this year? Matthews Tire has ideas to keep you rolling through the holiday season!... - [A Powerful Combo: How Your Battery and Alternator Work Together](https://www.matthewstire.com/a-powerful-combo-how-your-battery-and-alternator-work-together/): When people have trouble starting their vehicle, many blame the battery. Rarely do they consider the battery’s lesser-known—but equally instrumental—best... - [Spring Cleaning? Go the Extra Mile with Matthews Tire!](https://www.matthewstire.com/spring-cleaning-go-the-extra-mile-with-matthews-tire/): If spring puts you in a cleaning mood, direct some of that motivation toward your vehicle too! It’s always a... - [Eco-Friendly Efforts: Oil Recycling](https://www.matthewstire.com/eco-friendly-efforts-oil-recycling/): At Matthews Tire, we try to make every possible effort to conserve waste, recycle what we can and be overall... - [Matthews Tire Presents $5,000 Donation to WisconSibs](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-presents-000-donation-to-wisconsibs/): WisconSibs Executive Director Harriet Redman recently accepted a ,000 donation from Matthews Tire after their 14th semi-annual Oil Change for... - [Share the Road this Summer](https://www.matthewstire.com/share-the-road-this-summer/): Summer is just around the corner! School will be out, temperatures will rise and more bike, pedestrian and motorcycle traffic... - [For the 411 on road construction, check out 511!](https://www.matthewstire.com/for-the-411-on-road-construction-check-out-511/): Summer in Wisconsin may feel fleeting, but the summer road construction season seems to last forever! Everyone gets frustrated navigating... - [Smart Shopping: helpful tips for buying a used car](https://www.matthewstire.com/smart-shopping-helpful-tips-for-buying-a-used-car/): Making a wise decision about buying a used vehicle often comes down to educating yourself. According to Popular Mechanics, the... - [Matthews Tire Presents $5,020 Donation to SOAR Fox Cities](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-presents-020-donation-to-soar-fox-cities/): SOAR Fox Cities Executive Director Erin Schultz (Right) accepts a ,020 donation from Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner (Left). SOAR... - [Rev up Your Vehicle’s Health with a Cleanse](https://www.matthewstire.com/rev-up-your-vehicles-health-with-a-cleanse/): At the start of the New Year it seems everyone is jumping on the healthy living bandwagon. From extreme workouts... - [Dirt can Derail Your Vehicle’s Appearance ... and Your Investment.](https://www.matthewstire.com/dirt-can-derail-your-vehicles-appearance-and-your-investment/): Dirt is damaging ... A dirty, grimy car is more than just an eyesore. Dirt can do real damage to... - [Distracted Driving Awareness Month](https://www.matthewstire.com/distracted-driving-awareness-month/): The National Safety Council has declared April to be Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Last year more than 40,000 people were... - [Don't Let Construction Detour Your Summer](https://www.matthewstire.com/dont-let-construction-detour-your-summer/): Summer has arrived. There are leaves on the trees, boats on the water and orange barrels on the roads! It’s... - [Matthews Tire Donates $5,250 to Child Care Resource and Referral of the Fox Valley](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-donates-250-to-child-care-resource-and-referral-of-the-fox-valley/): Child Care Resource and Referral Executive Director Judith Olson (Left) accepts a ,250 donation from Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner... - [Matthews Tire Donates $2,500 to Walleyes for Kids After May Oil Change for the Better Event](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-donates-500-to-walleyes-for-kids-after-may-oil-change-for-the-better-event/): Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner (left) and Matthews Tire Waupaca Store Manager Mike Marshall (right) present a ,500 check to... - [It's All Business at the Commercial Tire Center](https://www.matthewstire.com/its-all-business-at-the-commercial-tire-center/): Matthews Tire is known throughout the Fox Valley and Green Bay surrounding area as a premier tire and auto maintenance... - [Matthews Tire Donates $4,960 to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s local Light the Night Event](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-donates-960-to-the-leukemia-and-lymphoma-societys-local-light-the-night-event/): Matthews Tire Office Administrator Jennifer Brockman (left) and Matthews Tire Controller Debbie Duesing (right) present a ,960 check to Leukemia... - [All About Anti Freeze](https://www.matthewstire.com/all-about-anti-freeze/): As temperatures fall to freezing many people tend to think more about anti-freeze for their vehicle. Although, as Matthews Tire... - [How Long Should You Really Wait Between Oil Changes?](https://www.matthewstire.com/how-long-should-you-really-wait-between-oil-changes/): We’ve all been there ... that moment when an orange flicker on your dash catches your eye while driving and... - [A Clear Look at Windshields](https://www.matthewstire.com/a-clear-look-at-windshields/): Here at Matthews Tire, when we decided to begin performing windshield repair and windshield replacement, we wanted to ensure we... - [People love working at Matthews Tire.](https://www.matthewstire.com/people-love-working-at-matthews-tire/): Ian loves working at Matthews Tire and you could too! We are always looking for hard-working, experienced general service technicians... - [Summer Road Trips](https://www.matthewstire.com/summer-road-trips/): It’s road trip season! Time to pile in the car, roll down the windows, crank the tunes and enjoy the... - [Reduce, Reuse, Recycle... Your Old Tires!](https://www.matthewstire.com/reduce-reuse-recycle-your-old-tires/): When you get new tires on your car at Matthews Tire, the old ones become recycled products used throughout the... - [Give the Gift of Safety for the Holidays](https://www.matthewstire.com/give-the-gift-of-safety-for-the-holidays/): From tire repairs to oil changes, a Matthews Tire gift card will help your loved ones drive safely in the... - [Matthews Tire Oil Change for the Better Event Lent a Helping Paw!](https://www.matthewstire.com/matthews-tire-oil-change-for-the-better-event-lent-a-helping-paw/): LEFT TO RIGHT: Glenda Stadler-Co-Director of Saving Paws, Lori and Mike Smith-Dog trainers and foster caretakers, Trevor Rezner-President of Matthews... - [Tis the Season to Come to Matthews Tire](https://www.matthewstire.com/tis-the-season-to-come-to-matthews-tire/): Since 1952 Matthews Tire has helped keep our customers on the road, in every season. How? By providing exceptional customer... - [I Can See Clearly Now – The Importance of Headlight Restoration](https://www.matthewstire.com/i-can-see-clearly-now-the-importance-of-headlight-restoration/): Think about it. When was the last time that you took a close look at your car’s headlights? Chances are,... - [Don't let a broken windshield slow you down!](https://www.matthewstire.com/dont-let-a-broken-windshield-slow-you-down/): A crack in your windshield can happen at any moment—it’s best to have experts repair it right away before it... - [Regular Auto Repairs Are Crucial For Your Safety](https://www.matthewstire.com/regular-auto-repairs-are-crucial-for-your-safety/): You know it’s something you should do. But it’s also something you need to do. You’re driving down the highway... - [Engine troubles? It could actually be your air filters.](https://www.matthewstire.com/engine-troubles-it-could-actually-be-your-air-filters/): From dirt and bugs to clogging and breaking, car air filters are more important than you think. You’re sitting in... - [See longer life, increased safety and better mileage with well-maintained tires.](https://www.matthewstire.com/see-longer-life-increased-safety-and-better-mileage-with-well-maintained-tires/): Just a few minutes each month maintaining your tires will reap big rewards in longer tire life, safer driving, better... - [Fond du Lac Manager Todd Steffes Celebrates Milestone Anniversary](https://www.matthewstire.com/fond-du-lac-manager-todd-steffes-celebrates-milestone-anniversary/): Fond du Lac store manager Todd Steffes is celebrating 20 years with Matthews Tire this April. Todd first started at... - [Another Successful Oil Change for the Better at Matthews Tire!](https://www.matthewstire.com/another-successful-oil-change-for-the-better-at-matthews-tire/): During the recent Oil Change for the Better event, held October 19-24, 2015 at all Matthews Tire™ retail locations, ,510... - [Technicians Receive Diesel and Hybrid Training Certifications](https://www.matthewstire.com/technicians-receive-diesel-and-hybrid-training-certifications/): More than 14 technicians here at Matthews Tire recently completed diesel, hybrid or both diesel/hybrid training at Fox Valley Technical... ## Pages - [Specials Pending Approval](https://www.matthewstire.com/specials-pending-approval/): Navigate TIRES SERVICE Tire Specials Save $250 Instantly on a set of any 4 Goodyear tires with Goodyear® Credit Card.... - [Thank You for Signing Up for our Texting](https://www.matthewstire.com/thank-you-texting/): Thank You for Signing For Text Rewards Your phone number has been received and will be added to our list. - [Thank You for Signing Up for our Newsletter](https://www.matthewstire.com/thank-you-newsletter/): Thank You for Signing For Email Rewards Your email address has been received and will be added to our list. - [Newsletter Sign Up](https://www.matthewstire.com/newsletter-signup/): Sign Up To Receive Deals by Email Get special offers and deals by subscribing today! 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Title Matthews Tire customers count on us to keep them safe and secure on... - [Commercial Services](https://www.matthewstire.com/commercial-services/): Commercial Tire Center – Appleton, WI Trusted commercial tire and fleet service partner serving Appleton since 1952 Schedule Appointment Get... - [About Matthews](https://www.matthewstire.com/about/): About Matthews Tire Upholding our mission to provide auto service excellence to drivers throughout Northeast Wisconsin since 1952! Our Story... - [Digital Vehicle Condition Report](https://www.matthewstire.com/digital-vehicle-condition-report/): Digital Vehicle Condition Report Your comprehensive vehicle roadmap for the journey ahead. Transparency. Safety. Trust. At Matthews, we believe you... - [Privacy Policy](https://www.matthewstire.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy By accessing or using Matthews Tire’s website, you agree to the terms of this Online Privacy Policy, as... - [Fleet Maintenance](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/fleet-maintenance/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Fleet on the Road At Matthews, we’re dedicated to providing the right solutions... - [Wiper Blades Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/wiper-blades-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Wiper Blades Replacement? Wiper blades replacement can usually be broken down into three... - [Wheel Cylinders](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/wheel-cylinders/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Wheel Cylinders? Without a doubt, the brake system could be considered one of... - [Water Pump](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/water-pump/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Water Pump? In the internal combustion engine, the burning of fuel generates... - [Universal Joints](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/universal-joints/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Universal Joints? Universal joints, often called U-joint or “Spicer” joints after their inventor,... - [Transmission Transfusion](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/transmission-transfusion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Transmission Transfusion? Like manual transmissions, automatic transmissions step down the speed of... - [Transmission Repair](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/transmission-repair/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Transmission Service? There are two major types of transmissions in most vehicles: automatic... - [Tie Rod Ends](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/tie-rod-ends/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Tie Rod Ends? If you were only able to move in straight lines,... - [Thermostats](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/thermostats/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Thermostats? Engine cooling system thermostats perform a function similar to home thermostats. When... - [Steering Systems](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/steering-systems/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Steering Systems? Unlike trains, which have a choice of going forwards or backwards,... - [Starters](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/starters/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Starter? Back when automobiles were first invented, the engine was started by... - [Serpentine Belts](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/serpentine-belts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Serpentine Belt? In all vehicles, the engine is constructed a few hundred... - [Radiator Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/radiator-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Radiator Replacement? The radiator is a major component of the engine cooling system.... - [Radiator Repair](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/radiator-repair/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Radiator Flush? Your car’s radiator is a reservoir that holds water and... - [Rack and Pinion](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/rack-and-pinion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Rack and Pinion? Practically all vehicles have a power steering system, and... - [Oxygen Sensors](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/oxygen-sensors/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Oxygen Sensors? First, a very short chemistry lesson in ideal automotive combustion: hydrocarbon... - [Mufflers and Tailpipes](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/mufflers-and-tailpipes/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Mufflers and Tailpipes? At the heart of every gasoline- or diesel-engine vehicle is... - [Ignition Wires](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/ignition-wires/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Wires? Gasoline internal combustion engines power most passenger vehicles, simply because it’s... - [Idler Arms](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/idler-arms/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Idler Arms? When you turn the steering wheel, there must be some way... - [Control Modules](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/control-modules/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Control Modules? Not even fifty years ago, automobiles were purely electromechanical creations, everything... - [Blogs](https://www.matthewstire.com/blogs/): Matthew’s Tire Blog The latest automotive news and resources to help keep you rolling. - [Ignition Coils](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/ignition-coils/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Coils? To ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in a gasoline engine, powering... - [Headlight Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/headlight-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Headlight Replacement? Headlights provide night vision and daytime visibility. Headlights come in various... - [Fuel Injectors](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/fuel-injectors/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fuel Injectors? All engines require three basic things to run – air, fuel,... - [Fuel Filter Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/fuel-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Fuel Filter Replacement? Gasoline and diesel fuel makes a long journey from refinery... - [Fan Belts](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/fan-belts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fan Belts? Aside from the engine itself, there are various accessories that run... - [CV Axles](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/cv-axles/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are CV Axles? The torque to move the typical front-wheel drive (FWD) is produced... - [Coolant Transfusion](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/coolant-transfusion/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Coolant Transfusion? The engine cooling system serves a very important function, maintaining... - [Compressor Service](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/compressor-service/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Compressor Service? The air conditioning system is nearly essential for a comfortable ride... - [Cabin Air Filter Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/cabin-air-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Cabin Air Filter Replacement? Since the mid-1990s, the cabin air filter has made... - [Ball Joints](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/ball-joints/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ball Joints? Without the suspension, your daily ride would be just a bit... - [Alternator](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/alternators/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is an Alternator? When you start your car, it’s the battery that supplies the... - [Air Induction Service](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/air-induction-service/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Induction Service? An air induction service, or intake cleaning, is a method... - [Air Filter Replacement](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/air-filter-replacement/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Filter Replacement? Most automakers suggest engine air filter replacement annually, or every... - [Oil Changes](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/oil-changes/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Engine Running Strong with Regular Oil Changes Changing your engine oil is one... - [Fluid Exchanges](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/fluid-exchanges/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex... - [Wheel Balancing](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/wheel-balancing/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Balancing? Tire balancing refers to the dynamic balance of the tire and... - [Tire Rotation](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/tire-rotation/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What are Tire Rotations? To help your tires last as long as possible, it is... - [Flat Repair](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/flat-repair/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Flat Repair? Automotive tires are much more than rugged air-filled donuts, quite complicated... - [Alignment](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/alignment/): TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Alignment? Wheel alignment, sometimes called breaking or tracking, refers to standard adjustment... - [Shocks & Struts](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/shocks-struts/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Your Car’s Suspension System A vehicle shock absorber is designed with a single purpose: keeping... - [Diagnostic Services](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/diagnostic-services/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Diagnostic Services? If you’re having problems with your computer, you take it to... - [Brake Services](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/brake-services/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title How do Brakes work? Cars have brakes on all four wheels that operated using a... - [Belts and Hoses](https://www.matthewstire.com/services/belts-and-hoses/): AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Belts & Hoses? 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Even experienced Wisconsinites need a reminder of how to stay safe on the road in the cold and snow every now and then. To help you stay safe this winter, Matthews Tire Menasha Manager Sean Brucks shares his top winter driving tips. Sean’s Winter Driving Safety Tips Winterizing your car Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. “The cold, fluctuating temperatures here in Wisconsin can take a big toll on your battery, tires and other parts of your car,” Sean explains. If any part of your car isn’t in good condition, the cold weather will only cause further problems. Check your tire pressure, brake pads, oil fluid and windshield wipers often to ensure everything will work properly while you’re on the road. Add cold-weather wiper fluid. “You don’t want to get stuck with a streaky windshield,” Sean said. “Keep anti-freeze washer fluid topped up throughout the winter so you can clean your windshield when needed. ” Preparing to drive Warm up your car before driving. Letting your car run and warm up for a few minutes before driving does more than keep you warm. Sean recommends that Wisconsin drivers should let their cars run for at least five to 10 minutes before they leave during the winter. “Cold weather can impact the fluids in your car, from engine oil to power steering fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid,” Sean explained. “Sometimes the cold makes the oil... As the spring thaw melts winter away, all kinds of new things are exposed ... including bothersome potholes on the roadways! Potholes can be a major concern for motorists—not only because they can disrupt smooth leisurely drives. “Potholes can be problematic in a number of ways,” said Matthews Tire Appleton West Manager Dave Flunker. “Depending on the depth of the pothole and the speed you’re traveling, you could damage your rims, pop a tire or—a lesser-known concern—throw off your alignment,” he shared. Straight wheel alignment is important for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle. With proper alignment, not only does your vehicle drive straight down the road, it reduces the wear on your tires, and ultimately, ensures stronger grip on the road, more control and better fuel economy. “There’s a misconception that wheel alignment is only addressed if you have a problem,” Dave explained. “The reality is, you should have your vehicle’s alignment checked and corrected regularly. ” Dave recommends getting on a schedule to check it every spring or every time you get tires replaced. With every tire installation at Matthews Tire, our ASE-Certified technicians will also check the alignment for free. “It’s all part of the Matthews Tire difference,” he exclaimed. “We employ state-of-the-art equipment featuring a laser beam that measures angles from both the front and rear to accurately ensure everything is in line. ” Outside of preventative maintenance, there’s an increased likelihood you may need an urgent alignment check in springtime. If you hit... If you’re looking for productive ways to fill time at home, now is a great opportunity for spring cleaning! Sanitization and cleanliness have never been more important and that applies to your vehicles too—especially because the average American spends almost 11 hours behind the wheel each week, according to 2019 Cision data. We’ve compiled an ultimate spring-cleaning checklist to guide you both at home and the autobody shop, so when you’re ready to get back to life as usual, your car will also be ready to take you anywhere you want to go. Spring-Cleaning Checklist for your vehicle At Home Vacuum/wash interior Clean out trunk Wash exterior Wax exterior Repair any scratches Clean engine bay Pack jumper cables/tools Replenish first aid kit Pack flashlight Check spare tire At the Auto Shop Check/change oil Check battery Check hose/belts Check transmission Check heat/air conditioning Replace wiper blades Top off fluids Rotate/change tires Check anti-freeze Check brakes Take this list with you to the garage! Download a printable version Ahh, summertime. No doubt you’re ready for summer road trips, but is your vehicle? April is one of two National Car Care months, the perfect time to focus your attention on spring cleaning your vehicle and investing in your vehicle’s regular preventative maintenance. Plus, spring is an excellent time to take care of any issues that occurred during winter. From scouring away salt grime to scheduling a pre-trip inspection, we’ve got everything you need in this blog—including expert advice from Matthews Tire Appleton East Manager Craig Keberlein—to make your ride shiny and safe as you head into the sunny months ahead. How to Spring Clean Your Vehicle’s Interior Do you have winter gear or equipment such as heavy blankets or shovels stored in your car? Craig recommends removing these items from your vehicle as you prepare to clean the interior. Once you declutter your vehicle, continue the spring-cleaning process by vacuuming, dusting and wiping the interior of your car. This will help get rid of any dirt, dust or debris that may have accumulated during the winter months. Craig added that spring is a great time to clean out the trunk as well, so you have plenty of space for all your summertime gear. Finally, wash those interior windows to improve your visibility as well as your vehicle’s safety and appearance. Should You Invest in Specialty Car Wipes? Specialty car wipes, such as those designed for cleaning leather or dashboard surfaces, can be a convenient way to clean your car’s... At Matthews Tire, giving back to the community and supporting worthy causes is at the heart of what we do. With a history dating back to the early 1950s, our tire and auto repair shops know the importance of investing in the communities we call home. This year, we’re thrilled to launch our 13th annual Oil Change for the Better fundraiser, benefiting the Fox Valley Humane Association. During this two-week event from July 29th to Aug. 2nd and Aug. 5 to 9th, 5 from every oil change at any of our six locations will be donated to support Fox Valley Humane Association. The organization’s mission is to remove barriers for pets and their people by providing a continuum of expert care, education and connections to community resources. How you can participate Schedule your oil change: Visit any Matthews Tire location during the fundraiser period to participate. Each oil change directly contributes to our donation fund. Spread the word: Share our fundraiser with friends, family and fellow animal lovers. The more people who participate, the greater the impact we can make together. Follow us on social media: Stay updated on the fundraiser’s progress and share your own experiences with the hashtag #OC4B. Exploring the mission of Fox Valley Humane Association As a full-service, state-of-the-art animal shelter and resource center, Fox Valley Humane Association (FVHA) serves thousands of people and their pets each year. FVHA works 24/7 to see that no animal need in the Fox Valley goes unmet. The organization was... With the dedication of the Matthews Tire team and the backing from our communities, this year’s Oil Change for the Better fundraiser was a major success. Held from July 29 to Aug. 2 and Aug. 5 to 9, 2024, Oil Change for the Better resulted in a 5,000 donation to the Fox Valley Humane Association in Appleton. Matthews Tire technicians completed an incredible 840 total oil changes across all six locations, with 5 from each oil change benefitting the cause. Recently, Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner presented Brenda Leick, director of development at the Fox Valley Humane Association, with a 5,000 check. “We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation and partnership with Matthews Tire,” said Brenda. “This contribution will help cover operational costs and specifically allow us to replace our failed laundry dryers and upgrade our heating and cooling systems. A special thank you to Trevor and all the employees at Matthews Tire for making this great event possible! ” According to Trevor, this year’s decision to fundraise for the Fox Valley Humane Association reflects Matthews’ ongoing interest in supporting animal nonprofits in Northeast Wisconsin. “We are honored to help this great organization and their dedicated efforts to care for animals in our community. ” The Power of Contributing to Your Community At Matthews Tire, we recognize the vital role local businesses play in nurturing healthy communities. Through our donations and partnerships, we not only support those around us but also cultivate meaningful relationships. In today’s community-focused environment, we... Shovels. Hats and mittens. Puffy coats. There are endless essentials that can help you make it through the winter. What else comes to mind ... maybe a warm fireplace, cozy blankets or even heated seats in your car. How about winter tires? Winter tires are not ‘a thing of the past’—they’re crucial to help protect you and your loved ones during winter, in more ways than one: Longer Tire Life Would you wear flip flops in the snow and boots on the beach? Probably not. Winter tires are made with soft tread compounds to create a sturdier grip to perform well in snow, ice, sleet, slush, wet and cold dry roads. When winter tires are used in warmer weather, the soft tread compounds wear out faster than the harder compounds used in all-season tires. Using the right tires during the right weather will lead to longer tire life for both your winter and all-season tires. Thirty-Feet Rule According to Justin Pritchard, an automotive consultant at the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada, a set of winter tires can slash 30 feet or more from your stopping distances on snow—that’s the distance across a small intersection. Many people think winter tires don’t make that much of a difference while driving, but it can be a key factor in avoiding an accident on a slippery road. Enhanced Safety “Winter tires have a special type of thread compound with a more aggressive tread pattern that will give better grip during colder and snowier weather,”... Winter driving in Wisconsin comes with challenges. In addition to the unpredictable weather patterns, snow and ice ... there’s the bitter cold. And it always seems to last longer than we think. “Warming up the car” is a big part of our Wisconsin culture. Aside from comfort, is there a real reason why it’s necessary to warm up your vehicle? Does it actually work to warm your engine? Is the act of starting the engine and letting it run in the driveway truly better for your vehicle long-term? “Not necessarily,” says Dave Flunker, manager of Matthews Tire Appleton West. “You should think of driving your car like taking a run. ” Dave explains, if you were going for a jog, you’d stretch a bit and warm up by walking. It’s the same for a car. “Sure, get it started for a minute to get the fluids moving, lubricating the parts, just a minute or so. By the time you do your pre-inspection or get your phone connected and your playlist pulled up, it should be ready to drive,” he said. “Then just drive gently to really warm up the engine. ” Just as you wouldn’t begin a jog in a dead sprint, you shouldn’t slam on the gas right out of the driveway. “If you’re an aggressive driver, you could do some harm,” Dave clarified. “If fluids haven’t reached all the pistons and you slam on the gas, it could do internal damage. ” Although Dave admits, newer synthetic oil... When we buy a new or used vehicle, we may wonder if the tires that it came with are optimal. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Appleton West Manager Dave Flunker shares his thoughts on factory tires and how he helps vehicle owners choose the best options for tires going forward. Factory Tires vs. Aftermarket Tires Factory tires are “designed to meet the specifications that the automobile manufacturer wants,” Dave says. “Sometimes people will assume the tires aren’t good quality since they came with the car, but that’s not always the case. ” Generally, those factory tires — also called original equipment tires — are made by one of the major suppliers of tires. They may last as long as 40,000 or 50,000 miles, but usually less for a high-performance car, Dave says. For aftermarket tires—those that a vehicle owner will switch to when it’s time to replace the originals—Dave recommends brand-name companies that offer options such as high-mileage and all-weather tires. What you might need depends on how and where you use your vehicle. How You Can Tell What Kind of Tires Are Optimal for Your Vehicle That’s where the experienced professionals at Matthews Tire come in. They’ve seen how tires perform on vehicles with various types of use, and they can recognize when a tire isn’t performing well. “I might know that on your pickup truck, these two brands of tires work out well, and another may be a poor performer,” Dave says. “The same goes for other... In Northeastern Wisconsin, promoting road safety is a priority we all share. While the challenge of distracted driving persists, there’s plenty of opportunity for positive change. Matthews Tire is an advocate for safe driving practices, and in this blog, Menasha tire shop Manager Sean Brucks shares insights to help drivers across our region make informed choices behind the wheel. Statistics and Facts Despite Wisconsin laws to prevent distracted driving, one in five crashes in our state involves it. Zero in Wisconsin, a state program with a vision of zero preventable traffic deaths, frames distracted driving this way: If you’re going 55 miles per hour and get distracted for less than 5 seconds, you’ve traveled the length of an entire football field without paying attention. Sadly, distracted driving can result in injuries, fatalities and substantial economic costs. “We don’t do vehicle body or collision work at Matthews, but distracted driving is definitely a concern to our team,” Sean shared. “We have multiple vehicles that come in where the customer hit a curb or ran something over, yet they don’t always know how it happened. That could definitely be attributed to distracted driving. ” Types of Distractions Understanding the various forms of distractions can help develop effective prevention strategies. Visual distractions, such as glancing at a phone screen or scenery, divert a driver’s eyes from the road. Manual distractions, like reaching for objects or adjusting controls, compromise control of the vehicle. Meanwhile, cognitive distractions, including daydreaming or engaging in intense conversations, divert... When the summer heat hits and your air conditioner starts blowing only hot air, your instinct may be to reach for a quick fix. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Fond du Lac Manager Allen Coburn talks about why buying an inexpensive refrigerant kit is the worst thing you can do for your vehicle, and how to save yourself thousands by bringing your vehicle in to Matthews Tire. When your A/C stops working “An A/C system that’s not working right is one of the most common issues that Matthews Tire technicians see in the spring and summer, typically with older cars,” Allen says. Maybe your A/C was working great last summer, but when you cranked it up this year as those first warm days hit, it only sent out hot air. When that happens, “most people think the system is ‘low on charge’ and believe they need to add refrigerant, or they tell their kids or grandkids that’s what they need to do,” Allen says. A vehicle owner may decide to visit a discount store or automotive department to find a simple-looking A/C charge kit in a can. “It’s marketed as very easy, because it is—so they grab the can, they connect it, follow the directions, and boom, they ruin their system,” Allen says. Why the DIY kits don’t work While these kits will refill your system, it also contains an additive that’s a sealant. “The problem with that is it often seals up equipment that you attach to it,”... When it comes to your vehicle’s wiper blades, replacing them regularly is important. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Green Bay Manager Tom Winninghoff talks about the value of keeping your wiper blades fresh. “We have heat, cold, salt and ice, and everything that adds wear and tear to our wiper blades,” Tom says. “They’re more important than people think, and it’s worth it to replace them more often than less often. ” When do I know it’s time to replace my wiper blades? When wiper blades begin to wear down, drivers might notice streaks in their view on the windshield, Tom says. “Sometimes people notice a skip, a squeak or something like that—those are the most common clues that your wiper blades are wearing down. ” Wiper blades can deteriorate because of things like salt on the road, chemicals in the washer fluid, or simple weathering in the summer and winter. The plastic gets dried out and makes it easier for the blades to wear out. “There’s no exact schedule for replacing them, but I would say certainly a couple of times a year makes sense for most people. ” During your oil change, the technicians at Matthews Tire will check your wiper blades and make a recommendation about whether it’s time to replace them. Can I replace my wiper blades myself? Replacing a wiper used to be as simple as sliding the rubber piece out and replacing that element with a new one, Tom says. But now wipers... It’s easy to overlook or procrastinate on some important regular car maintenance items like replacing brake pads, but letting your brakes go too long without maintenance can lead to expensive repairs—or worse. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Fond du Lac Manager Allen Coburn shares key insight into why brakes are among the top repairs his team sees, and why you should replace brake pads when your technician lets you know it’s time. Knowing When it’s Time to Replace Your Brake Pads A few key indicators may signal that it’s time to replace your brake pads, Allen said. First, you might start to notice brake dust building up on your wheel. “It’s usually a rusty, dusty kind of color, so you’ll notice it if you see that you have three silver wheels and one that looks like it hasn’t been washed in a while,” he said. “That’s a definite hint that you’ve got a problem with the brake. ” Drivers may also begin to feel that the car needs more force on the brake pedal to stop or that it’s taking a longer distance to come to a complete stop, Allen said. They also might notice the tell-tale squeaking while braking. Brake pads are mounted with clips that have tabs sticking out to the side, and when the brake pad becomes worn down, those tabs come into contact with other surfaces, and that’s what causes the squealing. For those drivers with certain later model European cars, the brake pads have... We often take for granted that our vehicles will start without a problem, and that’s especially important when the temperatures drop and we need to stay safe from the cold. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Green Bay Manager Tom Winninghoff shares why it’s important to have your maintenance team check your battery power regularly. What to Know About Your Car’s Battery Health Your car’s automotive battery is the rechargeable source of power used for starting your vehicle. Its main purpose is to power the starting motor, which starts your vehicle’s internal combustion engine. Second, the battery also powers the electronic components of your car, many of which continue operating even when your car is off. So, when your battery is not operating optimally, there’s a chance your car won’t start. “When the car is running, the alternator recharges the battery as you drive,” Tom said. “If your car is just sitting there, it’s basically not charging at all. If you drive only very short trips, it never really gets the chance to recharge the battery completely. ” Driving your car frequently helps keep it charged up, Tom said. “Letting it sit would be the worst thing. ” Even a couple of weeks without operation can be enough to drain the power of your battery. “With all of the electronic components that come in today’s vehicles, even when the car is turned off, there’s still energy drained from the battery, given all of the things the vehicle is monitoring,” Tom... We know how the holidays can keep you running—between picking up gifts, shopping for holiday treats or heading to the latest gathering, sometimes regular car maintenance falls to the bottom of your to-do list. In this blog post, Matthews Tire Waupaca Manager Nathan Ernst talks about why a maintenance value package—which includes an oil change, tire rotation, alignment check and more—makes a great gift this season! What to Know About Your Vehicle’s Alignment “Most people don’t even know that they have an alignment issue as they drive down the road,” Nathan says. “There really aren’t any key symptoms that you can watch for. ” What you can recognize is moments when misalignment may occur: You suddenly feel your car hit a curb or your vehicle bounces through a pothole that you didn’t notice. That’s when your tires may get pushed out of alignment. “An alignment check can extend the life of your tires, making them last longer and resulting in less road noise on your drive,” Nathan explains. During the check, Matthews Tire maintenance technicians will measure the alignment of your tires in several angles, including a ‘toe angle,’ which should be straight (think of your tires being pigeon-toed or duck-footed). “When your car’s toe angle is misaligned, you can get wear to the inner or outer edges of your tires,” Nathan says. Technicians can make mechanical adjustments to your vehicle’s suspension to correct the issue, which will extend the life of your tires. “Also, if your vehicle is aligned... In the cold weather, it’s best to let your vehicle warm up for a few minutes (if only for your own comfort). In this blog post, Matthews Tire Appleton East Manager Craig Keberlein shares a few thoughts on why warming up your vehicle also can help it to run safely through the frigid season. Remember: Cold Slows Everything Down When our region experiences a snap of extreme cold weather, it can be tough on our vehicles (as well as us). Think of how your own body moves in the extreme cold—slower and less flexible. “Cold is harder on your vehicle’s batteries and fluids,” Craig explains. “The engine turns over slower, and the fluids are thicker and don’t circulate as well. ” That includes transmission fluid and engine oil, which lubricates the moving parts to reduce friction—and that helps prevent damaging wear on your engine. In older cars in particular, that friction could reduce the life of your engine. Cold also makes the engine work harder, leading to a reduction of fuel economy as well as increased emissions. “When you’re talking about extreme cold temperatures, it can probably be helpful to allow things to warm up a bit to keep all systems working a little bit better,” Craig says. With newer vehicles and engine oils, cold doesn’t have the impact it once did—but it definitely doesn’t hurt to let your car run for a bit, if only to make yourself a bit more comfortable on your drive. “Remote starters can be... Flat tires can happen unexpectedly, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. Matthews Tire Green Bay Manager Tom Winninghoff said flat tires in Wisconsin are primarily caused by rim corrosion and punctures. “Aluminum rims can corrode and rust, which can then puncture the tires when they contract in the colder months,” Tom shared. “Beyond corrosion, we have about 200 different kinds of objects that have damaged our customers’ tires, from screws and nails to rocks, glass and even antlers. ” In this guide, Tom answers some common questions about flat tires and provides you with tips to keep you rolling as safely as possible if you lose tire pressure on the road. How Far Can You Drive on a Flat Tire? Tom doesn’t recommend driving on a tire that’s completely flat, as this can cause structural damage to the tire and prevent repair. “In general, you should only drive on a flat tire for a very short distance, such as moving your car to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot,” Tom said. “From there, change the tire or call for a tow to Matthews. Most car insurance companies include towing or roadside assistance now. ” If your tire pressure is low but not flat, you can drive to a nearby gas station, fill the tire with enough air to make it drivable and get it in for repair before the problem worsens. Can You Change a Tire by Yourself? Yes, if your vehicle has... As the summer season approaches and temperatures rise, it’s crucial to ensure your car’s air conditioning system is in excellent working condition. “If you maintain it, you’ll have it working well for you when you need it most,” said Matthews Tire Appleton West Manager Dave Flunker. In this Matthews Tire blog post, we’ll share a collection of proven car air conditioning maintenance techniques that will help you beat the heat and keep you cool on the road. From simple maintenance tips to professional advice, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and make your driving experience refreshingly comfortable! What Maintenance Does a Car Air Conditioning Need? Curious if your air conditioning is low on freon? Dave suggested this simple check: “Take a thermometer and put it in your car vents with the air conditioning air on max. The temperature should be in the 40- to 45-degree range with the right amount of freon. If it’s blowing warmer than that, your system might need some freon. ” From there, your vehicle may benefit from what’s called an evacuation and recharge. “For that service, we evacuate the system, pulling everything out. We then inspect the system and check for leaks. Then, we can recharge the system with freon, oil and dye. The purpose of the dye is to tell us where leaks are occurring should the system lose any cooling power in the future,” Dave said. How Often Should a Car Air Conditioning System Be Serviced? Ideally, your car’s air conditioning system... The combined efforts of the Matthews Tire team and the loyal support of our communities have once again resulted in a highly successful Oil Change for the Better fundraiser. The two-week event held July 24 - 28 and July 31 - August 4, 2023, yielded a donation of 6,000 to Green Bay-based nonprofit Take ‘em Outdoors. Matthews Tire technicians completed an incredible 946 total oil changes across all six Matthews Tire locations, with 5 from each oil change benefitting the cause. Matthews Tire presented Take ‘em Outdoors President Shad Loch with a check for 6,000. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude to receive these funds,” said Loch, who proudly accepted the check from Matthews Tire. “This money will go a long way to help the kids and adults we serve enjoy the fishing and hunting experiences Wisconsin is known for. ” Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner said the decision to support Take ‘em Outdoors with this year’s fundraiser was easy. The nonprofit aligns with the company’s preferred areas of support, which include children and veterans, alongside those centered on cancer or animals. “We’re happy the event was such a success. It’s our honor to offer this donation to a small, local nonprofit that can bring joy and outdoor experiences through its unique mission. ” The Importance of Giving Back Local businesses like Matthews Tire play a crucial role in creating healthy communities. Giving back through donations and partnerships not only helps the communities we serve but also builds strong connections. In today’s... With the back-to-school season in full swing, new drivers are hitting the road, eager to embrace their newfound freedom. As exciting as it may be, driving comes with great responsibility, especially for those who are new behind the wheel. In this blog post, we’ll share essential driving tips tailored to new drivers while Matthews Tire Menasha Manager Sean Brucks emphasizes the importance of having good tires and a well-maintained vehicle. The Journey Begins with Safe Tires and a Reliable Vehicle Before delving into driving tips, let’s address the foundation of a safe driving experience: your vehicle. Good tires and regular vehicle maintenance from Matthews Tire are your first line of defense on the road. “Proper maintenance on any vehicle prolongs the life of it and gives you peace of mind when driving,” Sean said. “People who neglect maintenance have more check engine lights come on and experience more interruptions that could have been avoided. ” The Role of Good Tires Your vehicle’s tires are the only points of contact between your car and the road. Having quality tires can significantly impact your driving experience and safety. Here’s why: Traction and Stability: High-quality tires provide better traction, reducing the likelihood of skidding, especially on wet or slippery surfaces. Braking Performance: Well-maintained tires allow for shorter braking distances, helping you respond promptly to sudden stops. Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated tires can improve fuel efficiency, saving you money on gas in the long run. Comfortable Ride: Quality tires contribute to a smoother and... As one of the most inexpensive parts on your vehicle, you may not put much thought into your windshield wipers. However, investing in the best wiper blades can greatly improve your driving overall experience as well as your safety on the road. So, how do you find and install the best windshield wipers for your car? Matthews Tire Green Bay auto shop manager Tom Winninghoff is here to break down everything you need to know. In this full windshield wiper guide, Tom answers: What are the best windshield wipers? What size windshield wipers do you need? When should you replace your windshield wipers? How do you maintain windshield wipers? What are the Best Windshield Wipers? For quality wipers that can withstand harsh Wisconsin driving conditions year-round, RainX wiper blades are the clear winner. Voted the best overall windshield wipers in 2022 by Car and Driver Magazine, RainX silicone wiper blades offer exceptional performance in all weather conditions. That’s why our expert technicians use RainX wipers here at Matthews Tire. We’ve got a wide selection of RainX wiper blades for every vehicle make and model. Wondering which wipers you’ll need? How to find the right size windshield wipers for your car To get the most accurate information on which size windshield wipers you’ll need, Tom advises using your car’s manual (or manufacturer catalog). Or, stop into your local Matthews Tire for a windshield wiper replacement. Our technicians use an extensive catalog system to identify which size wipers you’ll need for your... Find the best winter tires for your vehicle. The holidays are right around the corner ... along with harsh winter weather conditions. Don’t let bald, low-traction tires keep you from making it to your family dinner. It’s the perfect time to get your winter tires installed in preparation for the cold weather, snow and ice. Don’t have winter tires? In need of a replacement? Not sure which set is best for your car? We’re here to help! Hear from Matthews Tire Appleton auto shop manager and winter-tire-expert Dave Flunker to learn everything you need to know to find the best tires for your car this winter. Winter Tires 101: the Basics What exactly are winter tires? Though many people refer to them as snow tires, they don’t just help you drive through the snow on the road. Made with a special, flexible compound, winter tires are specially designed to provide superior traction in cold weather. Though the tread design of a winter tire does help to make driving through snow easier, drivers can benefit from winter tires even with no snow on the ground. “Winter tires are designed to work best at 45 degrees or below,” Dave explains. “The rubber stays soft enough to form to the road and give you better traction than all-season tires would. ” Winter tires vs. all-season tires While winter tires are made with flexible rubber that stays soft in cold weather, all-season tires typically get too firm in the cold to keep a good... Got a shaky car on your hands? There are a number of common car problems that can cause your vehicle to shake, vibrate or make strange noises. If your car is shaking, it’s important to get your vehicle inspected and repaired, but you don’t have to panic. If you’re looking for reliable auto repair in Green Bay, Matthews Tire Green Bay Manager Tom Winninghoff is breaking down the most common causes of a shaky car, as well as how you can resolve these issues. Why is Your Car Shaking? While it’s never fun to experience a shaky drive, the good news is that most of these issues are rarely complex. According to Tom, “most vehicle issues that cause your car to shake are related to your tires, wheels or suspension. ” A simple repair or tire replacement at your local Matthews Tire will likely be all you need to resolve the shaking and get back on the road without any issues. Tom added that, for Wisconsin drivers, shaking might be caused by a buildup of snow and ice in your car’s undercarriage. If your car is shaking in the winter, try the car wash first. “When there’s a lot of ice and snow on the road,” Tom explained, “the slush can freeze right to the rim of your car and cause it to shake. ” In this case, there’s nothing wrong with your engine, tires or suspension—you just need to melt the gunk off your vehicle’s rims to stop the... If you want your car to stay in the best condition through every season, maintaining your car’s engine is essential. One often overlooked aspect of car maintenance is the radiator flush. Regularly flushing your car’s radiator can help prevent damage to your engine and improve its performance. If you’re looking for trusted auto repair in Waupaca, Matthews Tire has you covered. In this blog, we’ll cover the benefits of a radiator flush and hear from Matthews Tire Waupaca Manager Nathan Ernst on the signs to look out for that indicate your car is in need of a flush. So, buckle up and let’s roll into the world of radiator flushes! What is a Radiator Flush? Radiators use a mixture of water and coolant to release heat buildup and send cool air throughout your car’s engine. This liquid can become dirty and even turn to sludge if not flushed regularly. For newer vehicles, regular radiator flushes are even more important. Built with high-energy systems and engines with multiple metals, radiator fluid can become corrosive much faster than in older cars. A radiator flush removes the old coolant from your radiator and replaces it with fresh, clean coolant that will perform better. Matthews Tire radiator flush process When you bring your car in for a radiator flush, our technicians first connect a fluid-exchange machine to the radiator hoses on your vehicle. While the machine is running, the thermostat on the vehicle opens and closes, replacing the old, dirty fluid with the new... The weather is heating up, Memorial Day is quickly approaching and Wisconsinites are gearing up for the coming summer. Though this is usually the perfect time to pack up your car and head out on a road trip, recent rising gas prices may put a wrench in your plans. You don’t have to cancel your summer road trip just yet, though, thanks to our tips on how to improve your gas mileage. Pulling from 40 years of experience in the automotive industry, Matthews Tire Manager Todd Steffes knows the ins and outs of how to increase fuel efficiency. Learn and implement his top five tips to be more fuel-efficient and save on gas this summer. Todd’s Fuel Efficiency Tips: Develop good driving habits Yes, you can actually improve your fuel efficiency and save money on gas simply by being more mindful of your driving habits. According to Todd, the most important habits to develop to improve your gas mileage are maintaining a consistent speed and coasting to stops. “If you can plan how you drive, get off the gas and coast when you can,” Todd says, “it really makes a difference. ” Measure tire pressure monthly Regularly monitoring and maintaining your tires’ air pressure is essential to improve your gas mileage. Not only that, but it will also help to extend the life of your tires. According to Todd, more air in your tires will “keep them cooler and reduce rolling resistance,” putting less wear on your tires and greatly... Without the right preparation, the summer heat can put a lot of stress on your car. Amidst road trips, weekend getaways and outdoor excursions, car troubles are the last thing you need this summer. Take the proper car maintenance steps now to ensure your vehicle performs well in the heat and stays in optimal condition year-round. Not quite sure which car maintenance services you need? Matthews Tire Appleton West manager and auto expert Craig Keberlein is here to help. Read on to learn Craig’s top summer car maintenance tips to prepare your automobile for the heat. Table of Contents In This Article Importance of Summer Car Maintenance How Does the Summer Heat Affect Your Car? Common effects of summer heat on your car. Craig’s Summer Car Maintenance Tips 1. Test your brakes. 2. Check tire pressure regularly. 3. Get a tire rotation. 4. Inspect the AC. 5. Get a full-service oil change. Matthews Tire Summer Car Maintenance Services Importance of Summer Car Maintenance Why is it so crucial to maintain your car over the summer? According to Craig, “maintaining your car is necessary year-round if you want it running at the top of its performance. ” Summer is an especially important time to inspect your car and make necessary repairs because the heat can put extra stress on your vehicle. Of course, there’s no way you can predict or prepare for every car trouble you’ll have over the summer. To discover which summer car maintenance services your vehicle needs, Craig... Thanks to the support of our loyal customers and dedicated team members, Oil Change for the Better 2022 was our biggest success yet, raising 6,000 for Hand-N-Hand of Northeastern Wisconsin. Our technicians certainly had their hands full this year, as we extended the fundraiser to two weeks for the first time. We completed a staggering 1,000 total oil changes across all six Matthews Tire locations from Aug. 1-5 and 8-12. With 5 raised from each oil change, as well as an additional ,000 contribution from Matthews Tire, we presented Hand-N-Hand President Jenny Geiken with a check for 6,000. Jenny couldn’t have been more thankful when accepting the check on behalf of Hand-N-Hand. “Thank you for supporting our educational programs,” she beamed at the check presentation. “This donation not only supports our playgroups and classes, but it also spreads the awareness and knowledge needed to provide these unique services to many families in Northeast Wisconsin. It means so much! ” On behalf of all of us here at Matthews Tire, President Trevor Rezner stated the following: “Thank you to everyone who helped to make Oil Change for the Better a success. When we decided to extend the event to two weeks, we knew it had the potential to make a significant impact. We are proud to gift this record donation to a small, local charity that can really make a difference in our community. ” About Hand-N-Hand of Northeast Wisconsin Based out of Green Bay, Hand-N-Hand is the only non-profit organization... Along with changing leaves and pumpkin carving, fall marks the start of deer season. Most active during October and November, deer will soon be an even more prevalent hazard Wisconsin drivers will need to watch out for. To help you get through deer season, Waupaca Matthews Tire Manager Nate Ernst is here to share his top tips to stay safe on the road this fall. Nate’s Deer Season Road Safety Tips 1. Always stay alert while driving and avoid distractions. “Cell phones and playing with the radio take you away from staying alert,” Nate says. It’s essential to keep your eyes on the road to watch for deer and avoid accidents. 2. Keep your car well-maintained. There are many parts of our cars we fail to keep maintained without constant use. Nate suggests doing a full run-through of your vehicle to make sure everything is in good shape. “Always make sure you have good working wipers for bad weather,” Nate says, adding, “take extra care to ensure your headlights are functional. If they are foggy or hazy, it’s time to get them refinished or replaced to keep your vision the clearest it can be. ” This will ensure you’ll be able to spot deer from further away, giving you more time to respond in an emergency. 3. Pay attention to deer crossing signs. “Deer crossing signs are strategically placed in areas with heavy deer activity,” Nate says. Heed the warning signs and slow down when driving in these areas, especially... When it comes to harsh winter weather and even harsher driving conditions, seasoned Wisconsinites have seen—and braved—it all. We asked our management team for some handy tips and trusted advice to keeping you rolling all winter long, and they delivered! Think Ahead “Good wiper blades are important. If you drive a lot, especially in rural settings, winter tires make a huge improvement for traction and overall safety. Also, this seems obvious, but leave a little earlier if there’s bad weather! ” - Craig Keberlein, Matthews Tire Manager, Appleton East Be Prepared “Always be prepared. Keep your fuel tank at least half full, and make sure your windshield washer fluid is full and functional. It’s also a good idea to store extra winter hats, gloves and boots in the car. A small or compact shovel may be handy if you get stuck in deep snow. And if you’re really stuck in deep snow, placing floor mats under your tires can help you get out. ” - Todd Steffes, Matthews Tire Manager, Fond du Lac Stay Safe “When driving in winter weather conditions, people should give longer distance for braking. The biggest thing is, if you’re ever involved in a collision—especially on the highway or another high-traffic area—don’t get out of your car. And if you have to steer to the ditch to avoid a collision, steer right if possible, versus into the center. No matter what, make sure you remain in your vehicle until you know it’s a safe place to... Representatives from The Salvation Army (TSA) accepted an ,000 check from Matthews Tire. Pictured left to right: TSA Waupaca County Business Administrator Ken Tregellas, Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner, TSA Greater Green Bay Volunteer & Special Events Coordinator Renee Main (in mascot), TSA Greater Green Bay Community Relations & Marketing Coordinator Nicole Hanley, TSA Fox Cities Commanding Corp Officer & Major David Minks, TSA Fox Cities Director of Development & Marketing Communications Kristal Knudtson The Salvation Army accepted an ,000 check from Matthews Tire after our 18th Oil Change for the Better event held Dec. 6-11, 2021 at all six locations. Major David Minks, commanding corp officer for The Salvation Army Fox Cities, accepted the check on behalf of The Salvation Army groups throughout Northeast Wisconsin. “We would like to share our appreciation to Matthews Tire,” he shared. “Its impact is changing so many lives in our community. This will bring food and shelter to the hurting homeless population as well as Christmas toys and smiles. ” For every regular-priced oil change performed throughout the week at all six locations (in Appleton–East and West, Menasha, Waupaca, Fond du Lac and Green Bay), Matthews Tire donated 5 to The Salvation Army. They also collected toys in Matthews Tire lobbies throughout the week just in time for Christmas. “We’re proud to support The Salvation Army and the important work they do in Northeast Wisconsin,” shared Trevor Rezner, president of Matthews Tire. “Their local presence in our communities supports so many kids and... Earth Day is just around the corner and serves as a great reminder to appreciate our natural surroundings and do everything we can to preserve them. Matthews Tire Menasha Manager Sean Brucks says sustainability is a big part of daily operations in their shop. “It’s the little details and efforts that add up to big impact,” he stated. Learn how Matthews Tire applies sustainable practices in the auto shop: LED light is a win-win Sean says, in the past few years, Matthews Tire has made significant strides to make all locations more energy efficient. “We’ve gone through the building twice now to improve lighting,” he shared. “LED lighting drives down energy costs and offers brighter light at a lower wattage. We’ve moved to energy-efficient lighting even in the bathrooms, showrooms and outside the building! ” Most parts are recycled According to Sean, Matthews Tire recycles more than you’d expect. With multiple dedicated containers and bins behind each location, Matthews Tire technicians recycle everything from oil, other fluids, tires, batteries, even scrap metal! “All oil is bulked up, refined into a base oil, and then shipped out to be recycled,” he explained. “We even put our customers’ used oil into waste oil burners to heat some of our buildings! Also, bare metals, exhaust systems, brake pads, rotors, etc. are in a separate dumpster for recycling. A LOT gets recycled in this business,” he emphasized. Out with paper, in with digital As a family-owned business since 1952, Matthews Tire used paper for... Next time you’re commuting, driving the kids to school or simply running errands, glance at the drivers beside you. How many are on their phones? It can be a disturbing observation when you take the time to notice it. Though vehicle manufacturers continue to advance hands-free technology to eliminate mobile device usage while driving, it just doesn’t seem to be enough. For this reason, the National Safety Council (NSC) declared April Distracted Driving Awareness Month to draw attention to the severity of this issue. According to NSC, distracted driving kills more than 3,000 people each year or about eight people every day. It takes the lives of people in all age groups, particularly teens. Car crashes are the number one cause of preventable death for teenagers. Matthews Tire encourages drivers to take advantage of NSC’s free resources today to help save lives tomorrow: The NSC DriveitHOME initiative helps teens build experience behind the wheel. The New Driver Deal is a parent-teen driving agreement, and Pointers for Parents is a comprehensive collection of driving lessons designed around the changing experience levels of teen drivers. Download the free report, Understanding Driver Distraction, which offers compelling evidence and concludes the safest option is to eliminate driver use of cell phones and interactive, in-vehicle infotainment systems. The report also includes recommendations for drivers, employers, legislators and manufacturers. Take the NSC Just Drive Pledge and commit to driving distraction-free. Donate to NSC to help make roads safer for everyone. Understand that multitasking is a myth,... When summer hits in Wisconsin so does the traffic. Most are headed to their favorite spots “up north” and many have trailers, campers or boats in tow. If you’re thinking of hitting the road with summer toys, take note of these top five tips for towing from Matthews Tire Fond du Lac Manager Todd Steffes. Tip #1: Ensure your vehicle is rated for what you want to tow. First and foremost, you must ensure the vehicle you’re driving is rated for what you’re pulling. Check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pulling something beyond your vehicle’s recommended capacity isn’t just bad for the vehicle—it’s dangerous. Your load could incorrectly steer your vehicle, greatly extend your stopping distance or even pull you off the road. Tip #2: Fill your tires to the max tire pressure. Check the age and abrasion level of your tires. Manufacturers usually stand behind tires for six years. If they’re older than six years, it’s time for a new set. Once you’ve confirmed your tires are in good shape, fill them to the maximum tire pressure. Heat wears tires, especially trailer tires! Tires generate a lot of heat running down the road. Combine that with hot weather, hot pavement and towing a heavy amount. The more air in the tire, the cooler it will run. In addition, be sure to pack a spare tire. Auto service is minimal on weekends, and having a spare tire—and the ability to change a tire—is crucial to getting you back... Are you on autopilot about cruise control? Many drivers regularly use this standard convenience feature but never venture to understand how it works or affects their vehicle. Fortunately, Matthews Tire Waupaca Manager Nathan Ernst confirms, there are more pros than cons when it comes to using cruise. “It is definitely good for your vehicle and is highly advised especially for long trips,” he shared. Not only does cruise control help to moderate the temperature of your engine, it helps with fuel economy. Some studies have found that you can save up to 10% on your gas budget every year simply by using cruise control. If you drive frequently and for long distances, the cost savings continue to stack up. “Certain regular maintenance—such as a fuel system cleaning—are needed less frequently,” explained Ernst. “Also, cruise control use results in less wear and tear on your brakes. ” Aside from the many cost and convenience benefits, there are some drawbacks to driving with cruise control. “As I regularly remind my teen daughter, you shouldn’t rely too heavily on cruise,” Ernst warned. “People get distracted while using it. They think they’re in control, but something suddenly happens—such as a car cutting in front of them—and they soon realize ... they’re not. ” Almost every vehicle on the road today comes equipped with cruise control, but the capabilities are accelerating with the latest technology. A more sophisticated version, included in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), uses sensors to automate speed changes based on proximity to... Have you ever enjoyed a carefree cruise down the highway only to be suddenly disrupted by a passing truck or vehicle that flings debris in your direction? The impact of even the smallest debris can be startling enough to jolt you into an adrenaline rush. And for good reason. Your windshield usually takes the brunt of the impact and hopefully doesn’t shatter. You may find yourself relieved to notice only a small chip or crack. Should you be worried? According to Matthews Tire Appleton East Manager Craig Keberlein, “A crack can be dangerous, and chips—when unaddressed—can turn to cracks. ” Windshields have a lot of structural importance to the integrity of the vehicle and could degrade the safety of the vehicle, he explained. Keberlein recommends getting even a tiny chip or crack assessed by an automotive professional immediately. “For minor chips and cracks, the sooner you get in, the better the repair will turn out,” he clarifies. “We can seal the crack before it fills with dirt, debris or water and to prevent it from spreading any further. If addressed immediately, chips and cracks will visually look better than if you wait. ” Matthews Tire has the ASE-certified technicians, quality replacement parts and technology to make repairs and even replace entire front and rear windshields. It only takes a few hours, with one stipulation, Keberlein warns. “Our only challenge can be getting the materials. We used to be able to get new windshields in the same day. Since the pandemic,... The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration recently announced that La Niña will continue throughout the winter of 2021. While the phenomenon occurs in the Pacific Ocean, it affects Northern climates, such as Wisconsin, with colder, wetter and snowier weather. Wetter weather means slick and possibly dangerous roadways. Are you prepared? Tom Winninghoff, Matthews Tire Green Bay manager, says, “It’s important to have your tires regularly inspected, rotated and balanced by a professional. When you buy tires at Matthews, we’ll do that free of charge for the life of the tire. ” As part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance, rotating and balancing your vehicle’s tires can extend the life of the tires, Tom shared. “We recommend having a professional rotate your tires every 6,000 miles. ” Turning, accelerating and braking affects each tire differently depending on their position on the vehicle, so rotating your tires ensures wear is evenly spread across all tires. “For example, if you have front-wheel drive, all the power is coming from the front. If you don’t rotate your tires, the front ones will wear twice as fast as the back ones,” Tom explained. “We’ll also balance your tires and check the tire pressure to ensure everything is even and runs smoothly. ” While technicians inspect your tires, they use a tread depth gauge to determine how much life is left in your tire. A brand-new tire measures at 11/32”. If your vehicle’s tires get to 2/32” the vehicle is considered legally bald and should not be... Pictured above: Waupaca Area Food Pantry Board President Linda Holtebeck accepts a donation from Matthews Tire. Six area food pantries recently accepted monetary and food donations from Matthews Tire’s 16th Oil Change for the Better event, held Nov. 16-21 at all six of our locations. During the event, a total of ,500 was raised and split evenly between Freedom Center Food Pantry in Appleton, Heart of the Valley Food Pantry in Appleton, Paul’s Pantry in Green Bay, St. Joseph Food Program in Menasha, Fondy Food Pantry and Waupaca Area Food Pantry. “We are so appreciative of Matthews Tire for all of the support over the years,” St. Joseph Food Program Director of Marketing and Development Kendra Schmidt shared. “You and your customers are so generous, especially during these difficult times. ” For every regular priced oil change performed during Oil Change for the Better, Matthews Tire pledged to donate 5 to a local food pantry. According to Feeding America, the pandemic has resulted in a greater need for food pantries in our area. That’s why, for this event, Matthews Tire increased the donation amount from 0 to 5 per oil change, plus added food collection baskets at all locations. “As an organization that relies 100% on the generosity of the community, donations like this help keep us going,” said Paul’s Pantry Assistant Director Bob Hornacek. “We truly could not do what we do without the support of places like Matthews Tire. There is a great need in our community. But... When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we all know what to do. Regular doctor visits, healthy eating or even taking medicine or supplements are all ways to keep your body operating at optimal levels. Many people don’t consider themselves gear heads or engine experts, but if you think of your vehicle like the human body, you’ll find you already know almost everything there is to know. Prevention is key If you think of your vehicle like your body, the engine is the heart. And to maintain a healthy heart, you need to be mindful of how you maintain it. Think of regular oil changes as the most important preventative medicine your car can get. With each oil change, fluids—such as transmission fluid and coolant—are checked and can be flushed, plus filters are checked and changed if needed. The lines to your engine are cleaned and fluids are topped off with fresh lubricant to keep your vehicle operating at top performance. And just like a doctor’s visit, our ASE-certified technicians are examining your vehicle’s overall condition, taking its vitals on the dash and alerting you of anything that needs attention. Damage and diagnoses Just like with your health, if you neglect your vehicle, irreversible and often detrimental damage, can be the result. When preventative measures are not taken, signs of damage will likely arise and affect the performance of your vehicle, such as clicking, rumbling or shaking. Those are all signs of internal damage and may just be too... With over seven locations in northeast Wisconsin and a growing reputation for expert service, there’s a secret to the success of Matthews Tire and it has nothing to do with tools and tires. It’s the people! Matthews Tire Menasha Store Manager Sean Brucks shares, “We look for service technicians who are dedicated ... technicians who are big on communication and they’ll go the extra mile to ensure service is done correctly on time, the first time. ” Matthews Tire also puts emphasis on education. In addition to their hands-on experience and automotive degrees, all Matthews Tire technicians are ASE-certified and have completed extensive on-the-job training to learn the nuts and bolts of all the vehicles that come through their shop each day. Matthews Tire even employs students currently in school and offers reimbursement programs for employees wishing to accelerate their education. “We look for employees who are committed. We want to invest in people who want to stick around and grow with our company,” Brucks shared. As a family owned and operated company, Matthews Tire currently employs over 90 employees, many who have been with the company for 10, 15, even 20 years or more! “When you come into Matthews Tire you can expect to see the same faces,” Brucks assured. “Your vehicle is often the second biggest investment you make in life (behind your house) and being able to communicate with your technician and get to know them face to face ... that’s important. ” Another benefit of experienced... (Left to right) Wisconsin Veterans Village Association Director of Development Kimberly Massey and Executive Director John Maino, Matthews Tire Vice President/Controller Jennifer Brockman, Vice President/HR Manager Debbie Duesing and President Trevor Rezner Matthews Tire donated a total of ,000 to the Wisconsin Veterans Village Association after the 17th Oil Change for the Better event, held May 24-28 at all six locations. “We have big plans for helping to bring veterans together as a community here,” Executive Director John Maino shared. “This money doesn’t go to overhead or to pay salaries. It goes directly to the veterans and to their experience. It’s grassroots efforts like this that make what we do possible. Thank you. ” For every regular priced oil change performed during Oil Change for the Better, Matthews Tire pledged to donate 5 to the Veterans Village. Money raised through Oil Change for the Better will support the Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin (NCW) Veteran’s Career Services & Community Center located within the Veterans Village which helps residents secure employment and financial support. “This Oil Change for the Better resulted in our highest donation yet,” said Trevor Rezner, president of Matthews Tire. “After touring the Veterans Village myself, I am excited and proud to support the growth of this hidden gem right down the street. ” Oil Change for the Better is a semi-annual, weeklong charity event held by Matthews Tire. This May was Matthews Tire’s 17th fundraising event in nine years. Matthews Tire has raised 5,955 for various... As an automotive maintenance and repair shop, Matthews Tire is considered an essential business. All of our locations are still open, serving the public–especially our essential workers who still need to get from point A to point B safely. As we continue to navigate this uncertain time, the safety of both our customers and our hardworking staff is our first priority. In order to maintain our high-quality service while protecting everyone involved, we have implemented the following precautions and procedures until further notice: Hours For the time being, all of our locations are closed on Saturdays. This is only temporary, will help to conserve our resources and will reduce risk for our employees. Protection Our technicians are all wearing protective gloves while servicing all vehicles and are frequently washing hands and surfaces. Depending on their role, some are wearing masks as well. Sanitization After servicing your vehicle, our technicians will sanitize all areas of the interior, paying extra attention to the steering wheel, door handles, dash dials and more. Our lobbies—including doors and counter tops—are disinfected frequently. Social Distancing We offer FREE vehicle drop off and pick-up service to customers. Anyone who doesn’t feel comfortable entering our building can use our key dropbox. Please reach out to your preferred Matthews Tire location to verify that they can accommodate your request before arrival. And before picking up your vehicle, please call to verify it’s ready, and keys are deposited in the dropbox. Matthews Tire is committed to safely supporting our communities... Matthews Tire is proud to offer expert ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) service for all vehicle makes and models. Since emerging onto the automotive scene in the early 2000s, ADAS features have quickly evolved, gaining more momentum as technology has rapidly advanced in recent years. Many vehicles come with simple computer-automated features—such as tire pressure monitoring—but have recently advanced to slick safe-driving conveniences that almost emulate a technological forcefield around your vehicle! Some of the most common safe-driving ADAS features today include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, forward collision warnings, night vision/pedestrian detection, parking assistance and even traffic sign recognition. With all of these sophisticated features comes more complex repairs. Now you can count on Matthews Tire for service of these ADAS features including diagnostics, repairs and recalibrations. Our expert technicians are trained on industry-leading recalibration computer software to know the direct targets for sensors on any vehicle. The software is auto-updated daily to maintain the latest specifications for all makes and models. If you have a vehicle with ADAS features, you don’t need to worry about regular maintenance or tune-ups to the system. Usually all ADAS repairs or recalibrations are a result of other work done on the vehicle. Matthews Tire Operations Adviser Pat Duesing explains, “Let’s say you get your driver-side mirror replaced. If your vehicle has ADAS, that mirror has a camera and sensors in it that need to be calibrated to the vehicle’s exact specifications to accurately detect motion and distance,” he said. “We have the... At Matthews Tire, we regularly promote our services performed by skilled, trained ASE-certified technicians. It sounds impressive, but some customers may be wondering ... what exactly does that mean? Our Green Bay Store Manager Tom Winninghoff explains, “It’s the only way to truly assess the competency of automotive technicians on a national scale in various areas of service. ” The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offers eight in-depth exams to measure technicians on a standard scale of proficiency. The exams are categorized by service including Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, Manual Drive Train & Axles, Suspension & Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating & Air Conditioning, Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel Engines. Each test is 50 questions and “actually quite difficult—only 65% of technicians pass,” Winninghoff added. A technician must have at least two years of on-the-job experience or one year of on-the-job experience plus a two-year degree to begin taking ASE-certification exams. They may choose to take any one of the eight at any point in time and are not obligated to take all. To maintain certification, technicians must retake exams every five years. “Just because someone doesn’t have the exam certifications doesn’t mean they aren’t highly capable technicians. ” Tom emphasized, “BUT if someone has the certification—especially the Master Automobile Technician status—they likely care a lot about the work they’re providing. ” Technicians who elect to take all eight exams, and pass them, receive the highest status, Master Automobile Technician. Because Matthews Tire highly values professional development, we... Fall in Wisconsin is a welcome change of pace with football (maybe), crisp mornings and vibrant changing leaves. But with those things also comes the unwelcome aspects of the season, like increased rainfall. Many people assume snow is the most dangerous threat to roadways, without even considering the risks associated with rain. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, data from 2005-2014 found that 73% of weather-related crashes occurred on wet roads. Additionally, 46% of weather-related crashes involved rainfall while just 17% of crashes happened while it was snowing. Prepare for Fall Storms There are some ways to reduce the danger of driving in the rain and increase your safety. Get a grip on slippery fall weather by upgrading your tires and wipers before the weather turns! Replace Your Windshield Wipers Selecting the right wiper blades is important and easy to do with help from Matthews Tire. Our ASE-certified Technicians can help you decide which wipers are best your vehicle and install them! We carry various types and sizes of ANCO wiper blades. For more than 100 years, ANCO has been perfecting their wiper blades. From conventional, to specialty or beam wiper blades, they manufacture all shapes and sizes for ultimate performance. If you are more of a do-it-yourselfer, finding the right wiper blades is easy. Consult your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specific blade size in inches. Signs it’s time for new wipers ... Streaking or smearing indicates dirty or worn blades Skipping/chattering shows blades are old and... Matthews Tire Gets Real About Those Pesky—but Necessary—Oil Changes. #1 Oil Changes Take Too Much Time! Think about this ... at Matthews Tire to properly do an oil change, we do a lot more than you think. Sure we drain the old oil and add in the new oil, plus change your filter. But did you know we also check your lights, air filter, cabin air filter, tire pressure, tread depths, and all your belts and hoses? As if that’s not enough, we also replace any shields and splash guards that may have needed removal to do the oil change in the first place. And lastly, we need to reset the service indicators for the next time you’ll need service. The time we take means a thorough inspection and a quality oil change for you. #2 Topping Off Your Fluids Is Just a Gimmick! You’ll be happy to know at Matthews Tire, we do top off your fluids—it’s free of charge! Antifreeze, window washer, brake, and transmission fluid are all included in every oil change. If we find any of your fluids are lower than expected, we recommend service to fix the potential problem. (There’s likely be a charge for that repair, but we make sure to get your approval beforehand. ) No scams, just keeping you rolling the best way we know how. #3 Technicians Who Do Oil Changes Don’t Have Any Real Knowledge About Vehicles! At Matthews Tire, we work closely with the youth apprenticeship programs at local... Breast Cancer Family Foundation Executive Director Diane Gaywont (middle) accepts a ,000 donation from Matthews Tire Vice President/HR Manager Debbie Duesing (left) and President Trevor Rezner (right). The Breast Cancer Family Foundation Executive Director Diane Gaywont recently accepted a ,000 donation from Matthews Tire after their 15th semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event. The event was held October 21-26, 2019, at all six Matthews Tire locations. For every regular priced oil change performed throughout the week, Matthews Tire pledged to donate 0 to the Breast Cancer Family Foundation. “Matthews Tire and their Oil Change for the Better event help keep our programs running,” said the Breast Cancer Family Foundation Executive Director Diane Gaywont. “This generous donation will enable our foundation to reach even more students with our mission of creating a healthy cancer-free lifestyle. Our goal is to reach 15,000 students in 2020. This donation will help ensure we get there! Together, we are changing the ending to the story on cancer. ” The donation will help support the Breast Cancer Family Foundation’s middle school and high school programs, Gaywont confirmed. The programs help kids get answers to the tough questions they may have about cancer and provide a healthy dialogue for them, along with offering children great suggestions for things they can do to prevent cancer. Oil Change for the Better is a semi-annual, weeklong charity event held by Matthews Tire. This October was Matthews Tire’s 15th fundraising event in seven and a half years. Matthews Tire has... Looking for new and different gifts this year? Matthews Tire has ideas to keep you rolling through the holiday season! Turn to our list of the top 10 best gifts—listed from most affordable to biggest splurge—for the drivers in your life. Wiper blades – They are affordable, essential and make a great stocking stuffer! Simply pick up an extra pair (or two! ) in our lobby next time you get an oil change. Ice scraper – It’s the perfect gender-neutral gift for group exchanges. Spring for the one with the built-in mitten and you’ll have the gift people will want to “steal”. Car wash – Winter is tough on vehicles. Regular washes help combat the salt, sand and ice buildup that can be harmful to the body and wheels of your vehicle. Emergency car kit – There’s no better way to show someone you care than with a gift to help ensure their safety. You can either assemble your own or choose from a variety of kits. Smart key tracker – Know someone who always seems to lose their keys? Get a tech savvy key chain that allows you to find the location of your keys using a smartphone! Jumper cables – Everyone should have a set of jumper cables in their trunk. If you know someone who doesn’t, this gift is an obvious must-have. Battery – The bitter cold does a number on car batteries. Save your loved one the stress of replacing their battery at an inconvenient time... When people have trouble starting their vehicle, many blame the battery. Rarely do they consider the battery’s lesser-known—but equally instrumental—best friend, the alternator. The two work seamlessly together to keep your car running and are more dependent on each other than most people realize. To understand how the battery and alternator work together, you should know the roles of each under the hood. Simply put, the battery starts your engine and runs the electrical dash components on your vehicle. The alternator, kicked in by the start of your battery, generates electricity to continuously power your battery. When the two are working properly, they achieve the perfect combination of power, creating a circuit of electricity that feeds itself for long-sustaining performance. Over time, the wear and tear of one component can affect the other, and in most cases, a diagnosis of one or the other is very tricky. “If the alternator isn’t working properly, there can be premature battery failure,” Appleton West Manager Craig Keberlein shares. “Conversely, if your battery can’t start your car, the alternator simply won’t kick in. ” The fastest way to tell if a problem is caused by battery failure is to check the dashboard. If your battery light illuminates when starting your vehicle, that’s an instant way to draw a conclusion. However, Keberlein offers, not all diagnoses are that cut and dry. “The computers and technical components in vehicles are advancing more and more every day. Your alternator is controlled by a computer and it’s possible... If spring puts you in a cleaning mood, direct some of that motivation toward your vehicle too! It’s always a good idea to clean the back seat, throw out any garbage, organize the glove box and vacuum the interior and floor mats. But if you’re really looking to accelerate the cleanliness of your vehicle, there’s more you can do with help from a professional. Coast into the nearest Matthews Tire at your convenience and check some of these “to dos” off your car cleaning list ... Headlight Restoration Unless you recently had a burnt-out headlight, you probably haven’t deconstructed and cleaned your headlight lately. You may not realize it but keeping your headlights clean is just as important as keeping your windshield clean! Cloudy, poorly maintained headlights—covered in salt, dirt, bugs, chemicals, etc. —can be dangerous. Headlight restoration will not only improve visibility while driving, but the appearance of your car overall. Engine Air Filter Replacement When filters get clogged, other components of your vehicle are forced to work harder and less efficiently. Particles from old, dirty air filters can reach your vehicle’s in-take system, and overtime wear away parts of the engine such as cylinders and engine bearings. Replacing your engine air filter every 15,000 miles can improve air flow to your vehicle’s engine resulting in better engine performance and gas mileage. Cabin Air Filter Replacement The cabin air filter, found on most models built after 2000, filters contaminants from the air circulating to your vehicle’s interior. An old... At Matthews Tire, we try to make every possible effort to conserve waste, recycle what we can and be overall good stewards of this beautiful Earth we admire when on the open road. One of the most significant ways we conserve waste at Matthews Tire is partnering with Safety-Kleen for recycling oils and fluids our technicians use each day. Safety-Kleen is the largest re-refiner of used oil in North America. Their environmentally responsible services ensure the proper collection, processing, re-refining, recycling and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous materials. With more than 200 million gallons of used oils sent through their refineries each year, Saftey-Kleen has the recycling process down to an art. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it’s done, according to Safety-Kleen. com: 1. Testing Used oil can contain a variety of contaminants. To ensure the highest quality oil throughout the re-refining process and environmentally correct recycling, the oil is tested constantly. 2. Dehydration Overtime, oil can store water. Using evaporation, all water is removed from the oil, is chemically/biologically treated and then discharged. 3. Recovery The used oil then goes to tall recovery towers where glycol and light fuels are separated and collected. Glycol is eventually reprocessed as a finished automotive grade product. 4. Stripping Fuel stripping removes the heavier fuels from the oils for industrial purposes. The used oil is then subjected to heat and vacuum processes to extract middleweight oils, or fuels for industrial heating. 5. Distillation The heaviest impurities are removed in a complex series... WisconSibs Executive Director Harriet Redman recently accepted a ,000 donation from Matthews Tire after their 14th semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event. The event was held April 22-27, 2019 at all six Matthews Tire locations. For every regular priced oil change performed throughout the week, Matthews Tire pledged to donate 0 to WisconSibs. “Matthews Tire and their Oil Change for the Better event helps keep our programs running,” said WisconSibs Executive Director Harriet Redman. “We appreciate this donation and the ongoing support from our community! ” The donation will help support WisconSibs summer camp programs and other new initiatives to serve siblings of kids with disabilities, Redman confirmed. The summer camp programs encourage kids to participate in a variety of outdoor activities while making friends who share the challenges and joys of being a sibling. Oil Change for the Better is a semi-annual, weeklong charity event held by Matthews Tire. This April was Matthews Tire’s 14th fundraising event in seven years. Matthews Tire has raised over 5,000 for various local non-profits including Fox Valley Humane Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Salvation Army, Disabled American Veterans Transportation Program, Catalpa Health’s Race for a Reason, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Golden House, Old Glory Honor Flight, Saving Paws Animal Rescue, Walleyes for Kids, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night walk, Child Care Resource and Referral of the Fox Valley, SOAR Fox Cities and now, WisconSibs. Summer is just around the corner! School will be out, temperatures will rise and more bike, pedestrian and motorcycle traffic will hit the roads and crosswalks. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, runner or driver, it’s important that everyone knows the rules and best practices to share the road together. Bike Safety According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 818 bicyclists killed in 2015—a 12% increase from 2014—and an estimated 45,000 injured in traffic crashes in the U. S. No matter if you’re a cycling enthusiast or driver, brake for a moment to learn more about how to share the road with bicycles. Depending on time of day and weather, bikes can be hard to spot and require drivers’ full attention. Your distracted driving (fiddling with a device, radio, eating, etc. ) could cost a cyclist their life. Obey the speed limit! Getting to work, school or an appointment won’t matter if you strike a cyclist on the way. Give cyclists plenty of space on the road, maintaining at least three feet of clearance when passing them. Be especially alert around schools, parks and residential neighborhoods where there may be a lot of kids on bikes. For cyclists: Stick to sidewalks, bike lanes and crosswalks, and ride the same direction as traffic when on the road. Sport reflective gear and always wear a properly fitted helmet! Motorcycle Safety The NHTSA reports motorcyclists accounted for nearly 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2015, while motorcycles make up just... Summer in Wisconsin may feel fleeting, but the summer road construction season seems to last forever! Everyone gets frustrated navigating orange barrels, sitting in slower-than-usual traffic and following long detours. However, education is the key to efficient summer driving. When you want to know what specific Wisconsin highways and byways impacted by construction, visit 511 Wisconsin Construction Projects. Here you’ll find maps and descriptions of road construction projects organized by region of the state. Clicking further into the site you can read a synopsis of each project, view a timeline of project milestones, read all about the likely impact on traffic and study the suggested detour routes. Currently, when you are driving to the Menasha Matthews Tire store—located at 1690 Appleton Rd. —you may encounter the The WIS 441 Project. When completed, this project will reconstruct and expand approximately six miles of US 10/WIS 441 from four lanes to six lanes between Cold Spring Road (County CB) and Oneida Street (US 10) in Winnebago County as well as reconstruct five interchanges and the Roland Kampo Bridge. Be aware of the potential for sudden lanes changes, temporary closures, reduced speed limits and detour signage in this entire area. “Feel free to give us a call before you bring your car in,” said Craig Keberlein, Menasha store manager. “We pay attention to the local situation and we’re happy to help you find the best route to the store,” he added. Work zones require extra caution. Did you know that it is illegal... Making a wise decision about buying a used vehicle often comes down to educating yourself. According to Popular Mechanics, the following is a helpful used car inspection checklist to reference when evaluating a used vehicle for purchase: Damage. Is the bodywork straight? Sight down the fenders and doors for ripples. Look in the doorframes, under the hood and in the trunk for evidence of crash damage. Paint. Dull paint can usually be buffed out, but peeling paint will have to be sanded down, maybe to bare metal, and then resprayed. Not a deal-breaker, but roll it into the price. Mileage. A well-maintained car can often go 150,000 or 200,000 miles, so don’t be afraid of a high-mileage car if everything else is fine. On the other hand, mileage significantly lower or higher than the national average of 14,000 per year is a red flag. Low mileage may mean a car that was rarely driven. And that’s not good—sludge and carbon may have affected the engine. Or the odometer may have rolled over one more time than the seller is letting on. Check that the driver’s seat and pedals reflect the mileage on the odometer. A worn brake-pedal rubber cover means lots of aggressive city miles. A brand-new brake pedal may mean the seller has replaced it to cover up the worn older one. Engine. Obviously, you need a vehicle that starts readily, runs cleanly and doesn’t leak. If the seller has maintenance records, peruse them carefully. A steady progression of... SOAR Fox Cities Executive Director Erin Schultz (Right) accepts a ,020 donation from Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner (Left). SOAR Fox Cities Executive Director Erin Schultz recently accepted a ,020 donation from Matthews Tire after their 13th semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event. The event was held October 22-27, 2018 at all six Matthews Tire locations. For every regular priced oil change performed throughout the week, Matthews Tire pledged to donate 0 to SOAR Fox Cities. “We receive funding from a variety of sources, such as private donations, but many are sizeable donations from our local business community. Without gifts like this from Matthews Tire, we could not do what we do,” said SOAR Fox Cities Executive Director Erin Schultz. “Thank you to Matthews Tire and everyone who supported Oil Change for the Better! ” The donation will help support SOAR Fox Cities programs such as their longstanding summer camp program, Schultz confirmed. Their inclusive camp program is designed to accommodate differing cognitive abilities and fitness levels. It provides campers with unique social skills development opportunities, varied experiences and fun. Camp also provides a much needed respite for the campers’ families and caregivers. Oil Change for the Better is a semi-annual, weeklong charity event held by Matthews Tire. This October was Matthews Tire’s 13th fundraising event in seven years. Matthews Tire has raised over 0,000 for various local non-profits including Fox Valley Humane Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Salvation Army, Disabled American Veterans Transportation Program, Catalpa Health’s Race for a Reason,... At the start of the New Year it seems everyone is jumping on the healthy living bandwagon. From extreme workouts to fad diets, fasting and popular cleanses, people want the best for their bodies! Well, you should want the best for your car too. With a “vehicle cleanse” you may find achieving overall engine health is quite simple. It’s like making sure your car is drinking those green meal replacement shakes—only much easier, with proven results! “Detox” your vehicle with these four common flushes: 1. Oil Change – The most common preventative maintenance is an oil change. It’s the vehicle’s equivalent to flossing. Everyone knows they should do it, that it contributes to overall health, but they probably don’t do it as much as they should. During a routine oil change, the technician will flush old oil from the engine, replace it with fresh oil, and also replace the filter. Regular oil changes extend the life of your vehicle, ensure it runs smoothly and prevent clogs that could lead to further damage. The good news is, new synthetic oils are prolonging time in between oil changes meaning less time in the shop and more time on the road. Although, Matthews Tire’s expert technicians recommend that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduling oil changes. 2. Radiator Flush – A cooling system, coolant or radiator flush, is especially top of mind during extreme weather but should be a regular part of your vehicle’s preventative maintenance. While the procedure has many names,... Dirt is damaging ... A dirty, grimy car is more than just an eyesore. Dirt can do real damage to the exterior finish. According to Farmers Insurance: Dirt buildup can act like sandpaper, wearing down and weakening paint. Grime can mix with rain and other pollutants, etching your paint off. This also allows other substances—like sap, tar and bird droppings—to ruin your paint even faster. When paint is cracked, etched, or chipped, the car’s body is vulnerable to moisture and that can lead to the much-feared rust! After a wash, don’t neglect to wax. Wax serves as a highly effective protective barrier between the environment and your finish. Regularly applied, quality wax keeps your vehicle looking better for far longer than an unprotected vehicle. Lower value Rust—or even just a dull finish—on a vehicle often means it will be worth less when you attempt to sell or trade it in. Almost no one wants to spend money on an unattractive, poorly maintained car. Additionally, even if you’ve kept up with regular mechanical maintenance, most people assume that a car that looks bad on the outside hasn’t been maintained under the hood. Less safe Everyone agrees it’s unsafe to drive with windows covered in ice or snow. But dirt, bugs, pollen and other substances on your windows can impede your vision and be just as dangerous. For the safety of all, keep your windows clean. Diminished fuel economy It may surprise you, but a clean car is more fuel efficient than... The National Safety Council has declared April to be Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Last year more than 40,000 people were killed on our nation’s roadways and distracted driving was a major contributor in many of those fatalities. Now is the time to pump the brakes on this national safety threat and recognize the real risks of technology in the vehicle. First, it’s important to dispel a few myths. Here are some of the most common distracted driving myths and recent findings from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Myth #1: Voice command features are safe while driving. Research shows that voice-activated in-car technologies dangerously undermine driver attention. Also, distraction lingers—up to 27 seconds after a call ends. Myth #2: Hands-free calls don’t count as distracted driving. While hands-free calls may be a safe alternative to texting, research shows drivers still miss 50% of their driving environment while on a speaker phone. Myth #3: Multitasking is possible and is considered a talent. “Multitasking” doesn’t actually exist. When simultaneously performing tasks (such as texting and driving) your brain is merely switching back and forth between tasks. Every time the brain switches, it slows reaction time. Set the wheels of change in motion! Keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road with these safe driving tips from Matthews Tire: Put your phone away. Stash your phone in a purse, bag or somewhere out of reach to deter your natural habit to pick it up when your device beeps or... Summer has arrived. There are leaves on the trees, boats on the water and orange barrels on the roads! It’s prime time for construction on our state’s roadways and Northeast Wisconsin is no exception. It’s important to be aware of areas under construction. Some of the major projects this season include Brown County’s US 41 Resurfacing and US 41 / County B Interchange Reconstruction, Outagamie County’s WIS 55 Kaukauna Reconstruction and the continuation of Winnebago County’s six-year WIS 441 Tri-county Expansion Project. Get the latest updates on these projects and more from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT). These projects may be great for the job market, but they can present many inconveniences and safety hazards for drivers. Narrowed roads, unexpected detours, debris and roadside workers are just some distractions that make construction sites more difficult to navigate. Here are a few things to consider when driving through a work zone ... Put down your phone It is illegal to talk on a handheld mobile device while driving in Wisconsin road work zones. Drivers in violation of this law face fines of up to 0 on first offense and 00 for subsequent offenses. Watch for signs Keep an eye out for work zone signs including flashing lights, utility or emergency vehicles, orange signs, flags, barrels, cones—and most importantly—workers. If you injure a worker due to careless driving, you could face thousands of dollars in fines or up to 3-1/2 years in prison. Slow down Speed limits are reduced for good... Child Care Resource and Referral Executive Director Judith Olson (Left) accepts a ,250 donation from Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner (Right). Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Executive Director Judith Olson recently accepted a ,250 donation from Matthews Tire. The money was raised during the Matthews Tire semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event held May 14-19, 2018 at all six locations. Matthews Tire tallied all regular priced oil changes performed throughout the week and pledged to donate 0 from each oil change to Child Care Resource and Referral of the Fox Valley. “We are very thankful for the support from Matthews Tire through their Oil Change for the Better event,” said Child Care Resource and Referral Executive Director Judith Olson. “The funds raised will allow us to subsidize training for over 200 early child care teachers in our local communities. ” CCR&R provides professional development training to child care teachers on a variety of topics, allowing them to enhance their knowledge in working with young children. “Research shows that 90% of a child’s potential is determined by age five, which means early educators play a significant role in young children’s development. ” adds Olson. “The quality of early education depends on the skills of the adults who care for young children and the relationships they form. CCR&R strives to assist these early child care teachers with opportunities that will help them guide children toward success in the future. ” Oil Change for the Better is a semi-annual, weeklong charity... Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner (left) and Matthews Tire Waupaca Store Manager Mike Marshall (right) present a ,500 check to Walleyes for Kids board members: Roger Hansen (inner left), Mark Stange (middle), Gordon Schumacher (inner right). Walleyes for Kids recently accepted a ,500 donation from the Matthews Tire semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event held May 15-20, 2017 at all six Matthews Tire locations. Matthews Tire tallied all regular priced oil changes performed throughout the week and pledged to donate from each oil change to Walleyes for Kids, a non-profit organization that helps kids in need discover sports. “We are very thankful for the support of Matthews Tire and Oil Change for the Better,” said Walleyes for Kids President Mark Stange. “We are partnering with the UW-Oshkosh Fishing Team to host a fishing day for kids on June 24th. We are donating 50 fishing poles for the event. Support from generous businesses like Matthews Tire makes events like this possible. ” Walleyes for Kids began with a few fishermen in Waupaca hoping to make a difference in the lives of children. What started as an annual fish fry, has evolved into a year-round initiative to introduce kids to organized sports and has also assisted in funding other activities such as equine therapy for abused children. In addition, Walleyes for Kids supplies fishing rod/reel combos for handing out to children lining parade routes every summer. “Thank you to all of our customers who came out to Matthews Tire during Oil... Matthews Tire is known throughout the Fox Valley and Green Bay surrounding area as a premier tire and auto maintenance service provider. What many do not know is that we also have a state-of-the-art commercial tire center to support the area’s businesses. Our Commercial Tire Center recently celebrated a 14-year anniversary of providing expertise, value and convenience to independent truckers, company fleets and municipalities. “We service all kinds of truck, farm and OTR commercial vehicles,” shared Commercial Tire Center Manager Paul Olson. “We provide a wide selection of tires including all major brands, but it’s our service that really sets us apart. All our technicians are manufacturer trained and certified. ” With 24-hour emergency service, Matthews Tire is available—day or night—for all commercial tire concerns and solutions. “We’ll provide roadside service in a pinch,” assured Olson. “We want area businesses to know we’re a reliable source to get things done quickly, because we know that time is money ... especially when it comes to commercial vehicles. ” The Commercial Tire Center is equipped with innovative technology, such as computer spin balancing and automation, to get the job done efficiently. “This state-of-the-art equipment allows us to perform spin balancing with accuracy and ease. It’s something that you don’t see everywhere,” Olson shared. “It helps us get the job done right, and get you back on the road—and back to business—faster. ” The Commerical Tire Center is located at 600 N. Bluemound Dr. in Appleton and is open Monday through Friday 7am-5pm... Matthews Tire Office Administrator Jennifer Brockman (left) and Matthews Tire Controller Debbie Duesing (right) present a ,960 check to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s local Light the Night Campaign Manager Megan Kreuter (middle). A local representative from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society recently accepted a ,960 donation from Matthews Tire. The money was raised during our semi-annual Oil Change for the Better event held September 25-30, 2017 at all six locations. Matthews Tire tallied all regular priced oil changes performed throughout the week and pledged to donate 0 from each oil change to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night walk in Appleton. “We really appreciate the commitment that Matthews Tire has made to provide us with this donation,” said Light the Night Campaign Manager Megan Kreuter. “This will go a long way in so many areas. It will help support our local patients and their caregivers, as well as help us with advocacy and to raise the voices in the fight against blood cancer. ” Part of a nationwide effort, Appleton’s Light The Night took place Friday, Oct. 6 at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium on Casaloma Drive. “Oil Change for the Better is a great opportunity for our entire staff to give back,” shared Matthews Tire Controller Debbie Duesing. “Everyone feels good knowing that they are working to give a meaningful donation and spread the word about a really special event. ” In 2016, the LLS’s Light The Night walk raised over 8. 5 million nationally... As temperatures fall to freezing many people tend to think more about anti-freeze for their vehicle. Although, as Matthews Tire Green Bay Store Manager Tom Winninghoff says, “It’s really something drivers should monitor year-round. ” To better understand why we need to monitor our engine’s temperature, we must understand what exactly anti-freeze is and how it works. What is Anti-freeze? Anti-freeze—also referred to as “coolant”—is an additive that lowers the freezing point of your engine’s fluid and, conversely, increases the boiling point. “Basically, if you were to just run water through your engine’s system, it would boil or freeze depending on the temperature in and outside of your vehicle and we can’t have that,” Winninghoff explains. “Engine coolant or anti-freeze prevents your engine from boiling or freezing. ” How Does Anti-freeze Work? Anti-freeze is a special formula that absorbs one third of the heat or cold in your engine. The other two thirds is then dissipated through your vehicle’s heating and cooling system. “There are also anti-corrosion elements to anti-freeze, which is why it’s extremely important to monitor your level of anti-freeze and get regular flushes,” Winninghoff recommends. What is an Anti-freeze/Coolant Flush? “Much like how dialysis is done on kidneys, the liquid in your engine needs to be flushed and replenished too,” Winninghoff explains. Matthews Tire does a full coolant flush where they actually pump all the old liquid through the vehicle’s system, removing all contaminants with it. “We don’t just drain it,” Winninghoff says. When coolant or anti-freeze... We’ve all been there ... that moment when an orange flicker on your dash catches your eye while driving and reads, “service needed. ” You begrudgingly admit, “I canNOT ignore this again. I must get an oil change. ” But the lazy, preoccupied and/or busier-than-ever side of you thinks, “What could it hurt to push it off a little longer? ” If this scenario sounds familiar, the good news is ... experts are extending the mileage intervals between oil changes now more than ever. Newer, more efficient vehicles and better oils even have manufacturers recommending oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles. This change may offer enticing money-saving convenience for drivers, but other factors should be considered before you put the brakes on quarterly oil changes. Traditionally, rule of thumb has been to service your vehicle every 3,000 miles or every three months (whichever comes first). Now, most vehicles are smart enough to tell you when an oil change is necessary and many people simply bring their vehicle in when the sensor activates. But what if you ignore that notification? Or don’t notice right away? Or, you can’t trust your vehicle to be as smart as a certified technician? While automatic notifications serve as nice reminders, “Matthews Tire technicians advise you to follow the manufacturers’ recommendations,” stated Appleton Matthews Tire Manager Craig Keberlein. “However, if you have extenuating circumstances, it’s always safe to maintain the ‘every 3,000 miles/three-month rule’ for optimal vehicle performance. ” Aside from more efficient vehicles, more efficient oils... Here at Matthews Tire, when we decided to begin performing windshield repair and windshield replacement, we wanted to ensure we approached it correctly. We purchased state of the art equipment and took the time needed to get our technicians trained and certified. When you learn more about windshields, you’ll understand why we went the extra mile. It’s logical to think that the most important function of your windshield is to protect you and your passengers from the wind, rain, other elements and debris. While that is part of a windshield’s function, it’s not the most important role a windshield plays. In reality, proper windshield maintenance, repair and replacement—following Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) procedures—is truly a life and death matter. Bob Beranek, owner of Automotive Glass Consultants, a nationally recognized expert on windshield function and safety and author of The Complete Guide to Auto Glass Installation – A Textbook, explains, “The three most important aspects of vehicle safety are the brakes, steering and the auto glass. ” However, according to Mr. Beranek this was not always the case. The first cars didn’t even have windshields. Drivers and passengers wore heavy slickers and goggles to protect them from wind, rain, rocks and debris. When windshields were finally installed in 1919, they were made from glass that easily shattered. So, in 1929, to deal with the shattering issue, laminated glass became standard. Then, for the next 44 years, not much changed. Mr. Beranek adds, “When the oil embargo of 1973 caused... Ian loves working at Matthews Tire and you could too! We are always looking for hard-working, experienced general service technicians or recent grads excited to learn more. Matthews Tire offers a family atmosphere, quality equipment, a safety-first attitude, training and fair compensation. Visit our careers page and explore a career with Matthews Tire It’s road trip season! Time to pile in the car, roll down the windows, crank the tunes and enjoy the freedom of summer vacation on the open road. While great snacks, cool shades and the ultimate playlist are all essential for a successful road trip, don’t forget your vehicle’s needs too! There are many simple inspections you can do before leaving to ensure you (and your precious cargo) get from point A to point B safely, without incident. We checked in with our resident experts—the Matthews Tire management team—for fun road trip ideas and practical vehicle tips to help ensure you reach your destination safely ... “I would go to Bonnaroo music festival in Manchester, Tennessee. There are 60 bands in three days! For an extended trip, make sure to check hoses and belts before you leave. If you don’t know how, simply contact a professional. You don’t want to get stranded on the highway in another state. ” –Tom Winninghoff, Manager – Green Bay “I enjoy going to the Wisconsin Dells because the kids enjoy going there! Make sure all your vehicle maintenance is up to date upon departure. It doesn’t hurt to do a full vehicle inspection. ” –Craig Keberlein, Manager – Menasha “I would go to the Florida Keys because they are right here in the good ol’ USA and because of the awesome cigar shops. Make sure your air conditioning is in good working condition. There’s no better way to ruin a good vacation than being... When you get new tires on your car at Matthews Tire, the old ones become recycled products used throughout the country. Winter is coming and you know it’s time to replace your tires. At Matthews Tire, we make sure you drive off with the right tires and we do the right thing when we properly recycle your old tires. For the past 27 years, we’ve been recycling our waste tires with Liberty Tire Recycling. Liberty recycles over 35% of the nation’s waste tires each year. “Recycling tires is important because they’re nearly indestructible,” says Don Hacker, inbound sales manager at Liberty Tire. “Even though tire rubber is inert like most plastic materials, it resists degrading and will be around for many years if not recycled properly. ” So what is the best way to recycle waste tires? Hacker explains Liberty Tire’s recycling process: Collect waste tires from customers nationwide Sort waste tires into two groups: tires/parts that can be repurposed and tires/parts that can go straight to the recycling process Shred into pieces (remove nearly all of the steel from the pieces. Screen and separate rubber pieces based on the size of the particles and cull out the steel Matthews Tire’s waste tires are turned into the highest quality ground tire rubber. From landscaping to playgrounds, these tires become consumer mulch products under the GroundSmart® brand name. Since it doesn’t decompose or blow away, recycled tire rubber keeps artificial playing surfaces safe. It’s also non-toxic and doesn’t harbor insects or... From tire repairs to oil changes, a Matthews Tire gift card will help your loved ones drive safely in the new year! It’s better than fruit cake... It’s better than an ugly sweater... ... a Matthews Tire gift card is the best present for your friends and family! Giving the gift of safety this holiday season will benefit your loved ones during the blustery months ahead. With cold temperatures and slippery roads, you’ll want to help them keep their vehicle in tip-top shape with help from a Matthews Tire gift card! Here are some steps every driver should take to prepare for the winter months: Check the Battery If your car battery was weak during the summer, there’s a good chance it will be weaker in the winter. It takes more energy and power for a battery to operate in cold temperatures than in warm temperatures. Don’t worry about being stranded with a car that won’t start—get a volt test on your battery to make sure it’s in good condition. Replace Wiper Blades Driving through a blizzard or freezing rain is hard enough as it is. Now imagine you turn on your wiper blades and nothing happens. Replacing your cracked, split or broken wiper blades will help you see the wintery road ahead. Also keeping your wiper fluid full will help break down snow and ice on your windshield. Take Care of Your Tires Cold temperatures and icy roads are your tires’ worst enemy. Old tires, or new tires with... LEFT TO RIGHT: Glenda Stadler-Co-Director of Saving Paws, Lori and Mike Smith-Dog trainers and foster caretakers, Trevor Rezner-President of Matthews Tire During the fall Oil Change for the Better event, held September 19-24, 2016 at all Matthews Tire™ retail locations, ,745 was raised for Saving Paws Animal Rescue Inc. Saving Paws is a local non-profit animal rescue that primarily cares for rescued, abandoned or surrendered cats and dogs, as well as trains service dogs to assist children, adults and veterans with disabilities. They also seek to decrease the number of unwanted animals and animal cruelty in the community through outreach and education. During Oil Change for the Better, Matthews Tire donated . 00 from every regularly priced oil change to benefit this worthy cause. They completed 549 oil changes for a total donation of ,745. “Because of the support from local businesses like Matthews Tire, we’re able to care for animals in our community,” said Saving Paws Co-Director Glenda Stadler. “We are very thankful for this donation; it will really go a long way. ” The donation is ear marked to support the S. P. A. R. K. E. D program—a program at Saving Paws that supports service dogs in training. It also helps eliminate the waiting period for providing a service dog to people with disabilities and strives to reduce the cost to the individual. “By training and placing quality, specifically trained service dogs—who have been rescued—the program truly enriches the lives of people with disabilities,” Stadler added. “With... Since 1952 Matthews Tire has helped keep our customers on the road, in every season. How? By providing exceptional customer service, tailored to each individual’s needs. To illustrate this, over the past year we’ve produced several TV commercials that show how many of our customers have come to rely on us to make their lives run smoothly all year long. In this ongoing series—titled “On the Road with ... "—we highlight real customers’ experiences with Matthews Tire. For the winter commercial we called on Dannielle—a busy traveling R. N. and a long-term Matthews Tire customer—to show how proper maintenance can keep drivers more safe and secure when doing a lot of driving in winter conditions. Just how many miles does Dannielle put on every year? You’ll have to watch and find out. So, without further ado, head out “On the Road with Dannielle. ” https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=NSaE0pMxMic Think about it. When was the last time that you took a close look at your car’s headlights? Chances are, unless you had a headlight that was not working, it probably has been a while. Slushy, salty roads can wreak havoc on headlights in winter, but dust, bugs and tar can be equally tough on headlights during the other seasons. In addition, pollution, car wash chemicals, even ultra-violet light from the sun can take its toll on headlights making them yellowed and clouded. Many people don’t realize the safety hazard created by poorly maintained headlights. In fact, keeping your headlights clean is as important as keeping your windshield clean. Cloudy, dirty headlights can be outright dangerous to you, your family and other drivers. Having Matthews Tire perform headlight restoration on your vehicle can create a dramatic difference in the effectiveness of your headlights. Not only will you be able to see the road better, but other drivers will be able to see you better as well. Ask a Matthews Tire professional about our headlight restoration service and enjoy the road in a whole new light. Before: After: Before: After: Before: After: A crack in your windshield can happen at any moment—it’s best to have experts repair it right away before it gets worse. At Matthews Tire, our trained and certified technicians now offer windshield replacement at every location! We practice Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) procedures and guidelines to ensure our technicians provide the best value and results. “A certified trainer from AGRSS led classroom and hands-on training sessions about installation and safety with our technicians,” said Matthews Tire President Trevor Rezner. When customers come to Matthews Tire for auto repair, we want to help in any way we can, from tire repairs to oil changes to replacing windshields. Windshield replacement provides additional value—and convenience—for our customers. Even a slightly cracked windshield can be dangerous so it’s best to get an inspection before the damage becomes worse and puts you at risk. “We want customers to be happier—and safer—in the long run. And with our high quality windshield replacement parts, they will! ” commented Rezner. Taking care of your windshield will treat you better down the road! And remember, if you have any questions about your automotive needs, don’t hesitate to call us for a windshield replacement in Green Bay. You know it’s something you should do. But it’s also something you need to do. You’re driving down the highway and you notice your oil change sticker on your windshield. You make a mental note to get an oil change soon, but then it never happens. The next time you see that little sticker, the same process occurs. We all know we need to keep our vehicles in tip-top shape, but why do we let addressing our automotive needs slip through the cracks? “With cars today, everything is lighter weight,” says Matthews Tire Appleton East manager Rick Roesler. “Because of lighter materials, brakes, suspensions, shocks—they all need to become a regular routine. ” From transmissions and exhaust work to oil changes and brakes, our vehicles need the best in auto repair. If we continue to delay auto repairs on our vehicles, the worst is yet to come. “A lot of people think we just do tires,” says Menasha manager Craig Keberlein. “But we do all maintenance and repairs, including fluid exchanges, spark plugs and timing belts. Everything is just as important as the rest,” he added. “People are driving their cars longer and longer,” says Roesler. “And because of that, maintenance is becoming more important. We see people on the side of the road with car troubles, coming to work late due to their car not starting, or even paying more at their automotive checkups—all because of the lack of regular auto repairs,” Roesler adds. Preventative maintenance goes a long... From dirt and bugs to clogging and breaking, car air filters are more important than you think. You’re sitting in the lobby waiting for your car to be repaired. A technician walks in with a dirty, clogged filter and shows it to you. They ask if you’d like to replace it and you respond, “Nah, maybe next time. ” What’s the harm of waiting a couple of months to replace it? Truth be told, it’s harmful to you and your car when you wait to change your cabin air filter and engine air filter. “Car filters are similar to filters in your furnace,” says Matthews Tire Green Bay manager Tom Winninghoff. “When these filters get clogged, they force other components to work harder and inefficiently,” he adds. Don’t let air filters ruin how your car operates. Here’s why you need to replace your car air filters often: Increase Fuel Efficiency Studies show replacing your engine air filter improves the air flow to your car’s engine which can lead to better gas mileage. “We check air filters during every auto repair and changing your air filter every 15,000 miles will make a difference,” Winninghoff states. Extend Engine Life If you have an old air filter, dirt and other particles can reach the engine’s intake system. Over time, this can wear away parts of your engine such as cylinders and engine bearings that will need to be repaired sooner rather than later. A clean air filter will also increase your engine’s performance.... Just a few minutes each month maintaining your tires will reap big rewards in longer tire life, safer driving, better performance and higher gas mileage. Inflation The most important part of tire maintenance is proper inflation. Most drivers don’t correctly check tire pressure often enough. Here’s a guide: Purchase your own tire pressure gauge to ensure accuracy. Always check pressure when the tires are cold. Check all tires—including the spare—at least once a month, after a large change in air temperature, and before and after a trip. Always replace the valve caps to keep out dirt. Replace any missing caps as soon as possible. Manufacturers list recommended tire pressure in the owner’s manual, on the end of the driver’s door or in the glove compartment. This is the number you should use for proper inflation, rather then the number molded on the sidewall of a tire. However you shouldn’t exceed the maximum inflation pressure listed on the sidewall. Differences between front and rear pressure should also be observed. Did you know that under inflation is the #1 cause of tire failure? And a tire can be under inflated by almost 50% before it appears low. In addition to failure, under inflated tires lead to decreased gas mileage. Rotation Rotating your tires will help prevent irregular and premature tread wear and prolong tread life. Rotate tires according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation or at every 5,000 - 7,000 miles if you are unsure. If you have trouble remembering, you might try... Fond du Lac store manager Todd Steffes is celebrating 20 years with Matthews Tire this April. Todd first started at Matthews Tire on April 8, 1996 as store manager and has continued to hold that position throughout his time with the company. He’s been certified as an ASE-certified technician since 2001 and is also on the advisory committee for the automotive technician program at Moraine Park Technical College. When asked what has kept Todd at Matthews Tire for so long he replied, “It’s the people. Everyone employed at Matthews is friendly, respectful and good at what they do, which makes my job enjoyable. ” With two decades of automotive and customer service experience under his belt, Todd has seen a lot while managing the Fond du Lac store. “I’ve seen some crazy stuff—damage from rodents living in vehicles and, most notably, brake rotors worn down to the hubs,” Todd recalled. “I also have observed significant changes in vehicle technology throughout my career with the addition of GPS, computer monitors and control systems. ” While Todd reflects fondly on those everyday experiences, they pale in comparison to his all-time favorite memory at Matthews. “I was lucky enough to go to the Ride and Drive event at Continental Tire’s facility in Uvalde, Texas,” he shared. Located 80 miles west of San Antonio, Uvalde’s mild year-round climate and rural location are ideal for Continental’s tire performance trials, and testing of top secret vehicles and components. “It was a fun, informative and very memorable... During the recent Oil Change for the Better event, held October 19-24, 2015 at all Matthews Tire™ retail locations, ,510 was raised for Golden House—a program providing safety and support for domestic abuse victims. During Oil Change for the Better, Matthews Tire donated . 00 from every regularly priced oil change to benefit this worthy cause. “We performed 502 oil changes during the event week,” commented Debbie Duesing, controller at Matthews Tire. “Everyone at Matthews Tire is pleased to help raise awareness about a valuable organization such as Golden House,” she added. “Golden House is so grateful to Matthews Tire,” said, Koren Bandoch, Communications & Development Coordinator, Golden House Inc. “The generous support of all our community partners is vital in our effort to make a difference in the lives of domestic abuse victims and families. ” A BIG thank-you to everyone who got an oil change and helped out during this wonderful week! More than 14 technicians here at Matthews Tire recently completed diesel, hybrid or both diesel/hybrid training at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton. There will now be technicians certified to work on both diesel and hybrid vehicles at each Matthews Tire location. (Appleton—east and west—Green Bay, Menasha, Fond du Lac and Waupaca. ) This training is significant because not many places in the area have the ability to do specialty work on diesel and hybrid vehicles. “We’re excited to have the tools and knowledge to work on these vehicles with confidence. Everyone here is eager to offer these new services to our customers,” commented Trevor Rezner, Matthews Tire General Manager. Technicians took one or both of the following courses: Light Duty Diesel Course—designed especially for the Matthews Tire staff by Fox Valley Technical College, this class covered maintenance and tune-ups including fuel pump and injector replacement. In addition, students learned how to troubleshoot drivability and fuel economy issues. Hybrid Vehicles Course—this custom class made technicians familiar with the unique aspects of servicing hybrid vehicles—including basic operations, invertors, ICE and emissions—from major manufacturers such as Toyota, GM, Ford and Honda. So, if you’re looking for expert service for your diesel or hybrid vehicle, look no further than your local Matthews Tire! ## Pages Navigate TIRES SERVICE Tire Specials Save $250 Instantly on a set of any 4 Goodyear tires with Goodyear® Credit Card. Offer ends on 07/31/2026. * Offer Details Service Specials Save Up to $20 Off Lube, Oil & Filter Change with Valvoline Perks Loyalty Program Savings Download Rebate Form Offer Details Thank You for Signing For Text Rewards Your phone number has been received and will be added to our list. Thank You for Signing For Email Rewards Your email address has been received and will be added to our list. Sign Up To Receive Deals by Email Get special offers and deals by subscribing today! Sign Up To Receive Deals by Text Get special offers and deals right to your phone by subscribing today! Community Service Matthews Tire is proud to support our local communities through various charitable events throughout the year! When our Community Succeeds, we Succeed! Matthews Tire is proud to support our local communities through various charitable events throughout the year! Our team and loyal customers help us give back to local organizations and worthy causes making a positive impact in the cities we serve throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Each year, we focus on two main charitable acts: Oil Change for the Better, and bottled water donations. Oil Change for the Better Matthews Tire is proud to host Oil Change for the Better-an annual fundraising event in support of local nonprofit organizations making a positive impact throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Each year, a different local nonprofit deserving of much-needed community support, funding and awareness is chosen by our leadership team to receive the funds from this event. For every regular-priced oil change performed at any Matthews Tire location during Oil Change for the Better, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the recipient organization. In addition to these proceeds, we meet one-on-one with the chosen nonprofit to learn their greatest needs and provide additional ways for customers to give while at any of our auto shops. Thanks to the wholehearted support of this event from both Matthews Tire employees and our amazing customers, the participating organizations are able to grow and expand on the essential work they do within the community. Since 2012, Oil Change for the Better has raised over... Thank You for Requesting an Appointment Our team will contact you within 1 business day to verify your appointment request. Satisfied customers are our top priority. Title Matthews Tire customers count on us to keep them safe and secure on the road by providing top-quality tires and auto service-satisfaction guaranteed! You don't have to take our word for it; hear what our customers have to say about the exemplary service at Matthews Tire in the testimonial videos below. Steve Matthews Tire Location Appleton East When Steve's wife Sue experienced car troubles on highway 441, Matthews Tire was her first call. The auto technicians in Appleton worked quickly to pick up Sue's car, drive her to work and complete the necessary repairs the same day, as she and Steve had planned to take a road trip. The Matthews Tire technicians not only completed the repairs ahead of schedule but personally dropped off Sue's car when service was complete, ensuring that she and Steve could enjoy their vacation stress-free! "They said 'no problem! ' And that just sticks out in my mind as great customer service! " Joel Matthews Tire Location Menasha When Joel noticed his father's car was leaking, the first place he thought to call was Matthews Tire. Not only were the expert technicians at the Menasha auto shop able to repair the leak but they discovered two broken struts that were a safety concern and repaired those as well. Now, Joel can rest assured that his dad is safe on the road. "It's a 12-year-old car and it runs like a new vehicle. I wouldn't think of going to... Commercial Tire Center - Appleton, WI Trusted commercial tire and fleet service partner serving Appleton since 1952 Schedule Appointment Get Directions Downtime costs money - and Matthews Tire helps you avoid it. Our team delivers fast, reliable commercial tire service you can count on. From inspections and rotations to flat repairs and full replacements, our ASE‑certified technicians work with speed and precision so your trucks stay on the road, not stuck in the shop. We proudly serve fleets, municipal vehicles, and independent operators with dependable service. Why commercial customers trust us More than 70 years of trusted service in Appleton ASE certified technicians using dealer grade diagnostic tools. No pressure, no upselling - just honest diagnostics and quality care. Quick, accurate service to reduce downtime ASE-certified technicians Dealer-level diagnostic tools Honest diagnostics with Digital Vehicle Condition Report The expert technicians at the Matthews Tire Commercial Tire Center on Bluemound Drive in Appleton, WI, deliver exceptional service and value for independent truckers, companies, fleets, and municipalities throughout the region. Commercial Tire & Fleet Services: National account servicing Calcium/fluid fills Foam filling Computer spin balancing Goodyear & Michelin retreading Farm & fleet services Fleet inspections Tire tracking capabilities TIA-certified team Wheel & rim refinishing Expert Commercial Auto Services No matter what services your vehicle needs, Matthews Tire has a solution. View our popular maintenance and auto repair services to learn more. Tire installs Oil changes Alignments Brake Repairs Engine Work Full-service maintenance World-class service, dealer-level parts, unbeatable value. Reach out today 600... About Matthews Tire Upholding our mission to provide auto service excellence to drivers throughout Northeast Wisconsin since 1952! Our Story Matthews Tire has been upholding our mission to provide auto service excellence to drivers throughout Northeast Wisconsin since 1952. Each of our certified technicians is passionate about providing comprehensive auto services and meeting the exemplary standards our customers have come to expect Why Choose Matthews Tire? You can trust Matthews Tire to provide the best value on tires and automotive services in Northeast Wisconsin. We do this by continually improving our services and providing benefits you won't find anywhere else. What sets us apart from the rest? Personalized Service No robots here! At Matthews Tire, you'll get the personal attention and service you deserve. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to answer your questions, conduct expert consultations, and provide you with top-quality, personalized service. Prioritized Safety When automotive issues are missed, catastrophic accidents can occur. At Matthews Tire, we understand the serious nature of our work and put the safety of our staff and customers first. You can count on the diligent work of our technicians to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. Unbeatable Value Thinking of paying less for your car repairs or buying discount tires, wheels and other auto parts? You might save up front, but poor-quality parts won't keep your car in shape for long. That's why we carry the best tires, synthetic oils and auto parts to provide you with quality, lasting results that... Digital Vehicle Condition Report Your comprehensive vehicle roadmap for the journey ahead. Transparency. Safety. Trust. At Matthews, we believe you deserve full transparency when it comes to your vehicle. That's why we use Digital Vehicle Condition Report, featuring real photos, real videos, and easy-to-understand explanations from our technicians-all sent directly to your phone. It's a complimentary service every time you bring your car to Matthews. What Is a Digital Vehicle Condition Report? Photos of your vehicle's current condition Videos recorded by your technician Detailed report explaining findings Instant delivery via text or email How It Works Bring your vehicle to Matthews Our technician performs a digital inspection You receive a text and/or email with your report Review photos & videos Approve only what you're comfortable with Technicians Note Any Issues You Receive Your Full Report Click to View Example Report You Receive Video Footage of Specific Issues Click to View Example Video Why Drivers Trust Matthews Digital Vehicle Condition Report Increased Transparency & Trust We show you exactly what we see. Photos and videos document your vehicle's condition Clear technician comments explain the issue Eliminates confusion or fear of unnecessary repairs Builds long-term trust between you and our team Faster, More Informed Decision-Making No waiting. No uncertainty. Inspection results sent instantly via text or email Easily review findings and ask questions Visual proof helps you understand urgent vs. optional repairs Approve work directly from your device Improved Safety & Early Problem Detection Stay ahead of costly breakdowns. Color-coded reports (... Privacy Policy By accessing or using Matthews Tire's website, you agree to the terms of this Online Privacy Policy, as outlined below. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not access or use this site. Collection of Personal Information When you merely use the website for informational purposes, i. e. if you do not log in to use the website, register or otherwise provide us with information, we do not collect any personal data, except for the data transmitted by your browser that enables you to access the website. This includes: IP address Date and time of the request Content of the request (specific site) Access status / HTTP status code Volume of data transmitted each time Website from which the request comes Browser Operating system and its interface Language and version of the browser software Your country of origin When you engage in certain activities on this site, you may be asked to provide certain information about yourself by filling out and submitting an online form. It is completely optional for you to engage in these activities. If you elect to engage in these activities, however, you may be required to provide personal information, such as your name, mailing address, e-mail address and other personal identifying information. Use of the "Contact" Page When you contact Matthews Tire via email or via the contact form, Matthews Tirewill store your email address and, if you have provided them, your name and phone number in order to answer your... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Fleet on the Road At Matthews, we're dedicated to providing the right solutions and services for your fleet. Our Matthews Fleet Service experts offer high-quality, consistent service to help keep your fleet on the road & rolling. From maintenance & repairs to a wide selection of top-selling tires, our Matthews Fleet Service program was designed with a first-hand understanding of the need for minimal down time. ON DEMAND REPAIRS ONE STOP SHOP 12/12 COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY PM REMINDERS NAME BRAND PRODUCTS DISCOUNT PRICING NEARLY 40 LOCATIONS FREE EMERGENCY TOWING 24 HOUR GUARANTEE EASY PAYMENT OPTIONS ELECTRONIC REPAIR HISTORY LIFETIME PROTECTION PLANS FOR INFORMATION Call, Text, or Email Richard Winkler at 216-308-7451 or winkler@econrads. com Our Customers New Here? Sign Up Today! Already a Customer? Schedule an Appointment AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Wiper Blades Replacement? Wiper blades replacement can usually be broken down into three categories: wiper inserts replacement, wiper blades replacement, wiper blades upgrade. Depending on wiper blade design, wiper inserts, the rubber squeegee portion, might be replaceable. Wiper insert replacement takes just a few minutes and reuses the existing metal or plastic wiper blade frame. Wiper inserts replacement is a good idea if the frame is in good condition, because it's less expensive than replacing the entire blade. On the other hand, if the wiper blade frame is damaged or doesn't feature replaceable inserts, such as many winter blades or beam blades, then full wiper blade replacement might be suggested. It's somewhat more expensive, but will restore visibility as soon as they are used. Depending on seasonal or performance requirements, drivers may opt for upgraded wiper blades, such as beam blades or aero-blades. Why is Wiper Blades Replacement Important? On most vehicles, wiper blades are constantly exposed to the sun, whose ultraviolet rays lead to deterioration and eventual destruction. Wiper blades replacement is usually recommended at least every six months, depending on wiper blade wear and the season. Wiper blades replacement is usually done in pairs. Wiper blades replacement is necessary in any kind of weather, be it sunny or cloudy, rainy or snowy. The reason is simple - if you can't see, you can't drive. It seems obvious that, in the rain and snow, you'll use your wiper blades to clear your... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Wheel Cylinders? Without a doubt, the brake system could be considered one of the most important car features. The brake system gives you control over speed, such as in traffic and down hills, and helps you come to a stop, whether at a traffic signal or to avoid obstacles, pedestrians, or pets. Disc brakes are more efficient than drum brakes, which is why they're found on the front of the vehicle, where 70% of braking is done. Drum brakes cheaper and less effective, but are still effective enough for use on the rear, where just 30% of braking is done. Somewhat of a misnomer, wheel cylinders have nothing to do with "wheels," but are the heart of the drum brake system. Why are Wheel Cylinders Important? When you step on the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is amplified and then transmitted through the brake lines to each wheel, brake calipers in the front and wheel cylinder in the rear, at least for vehicles built with rear drum brakes. The wheel cylinders convert that hydraulic brake pressure into movement, tiny pistons expanding and pushing the brake shoes into the brake drum. Moved by the wheel cylinders, the brake shoes can only expand so far, forcing the friction material into the drums to slow and stop their movement, and therefore, the movement of the wheels attached to them. Because the wheel cylinders are hidden inside the brake drums, they're well-protected, but any failure would also be... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Water Pump? In the internal combustion engine, the burning of fuel generates a lot of heat. For an engine, a little heat is a good thing, as it helps to vaporize the fuel, burning it more efficiently. Too much of a good thing starts to cause problems, if unregulated, so the engine cooling system transfers heat from the engine to the atmosphere, also the cabin on cold days. It is the job of the coolant, a blend of water and alcohol, to accomplish heat transfer. In the engine, by the cylinders, engine coolant absorbs heat, which it releases through the radiator, but it doesn't flow on its own. The engine coolant pump, typically referred to simply as "water pump," keeps coolant flowing to manage heat transfer and engine temperatures. How Does the Water Pump Work? When the engine is running, the water pump is usually driven by one of the accessory drive belts or the timing belt. The water pump is a centrifugal pump, producing high flow but little pressure. Coolant flow is regulated by the thermostat to keep the engine within a safe and efficient temperature range. At idle, the water pump can move a half-gallon of coolant per second. At its maximum operation, it can move over two gallons per second! The water pump works a little differently in hybrid cars and electric vehicles. Because the engine isn't always running in a hybrid and there is no engine in an... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Universal Joints? Universal joints, often called U-joint or "Spicer" joints after their inventor, are used to give flexibility to drive shafts. Essentially T-shaped joints connecting U-shaped yokes, universal joints allow a rotating shaft to bend. Today, universal joints are most-often found in drive-shafts and steering shafts, because they have a lower range of motion. Universal joints used to feature big in four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive front wheels, but today's front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles use stronger CV-joints, which have a greater range of motion and don't vary in speed. Why are Universal Joints Important? Without universal joints, it would be nearly impossible to build a modern vehicle. Because no road is perfectly smooth, the suspension system needs to be flexible and, because the drive axles need to be flexible, the drive shaft needs to be flexible. At both ends of the typical driveshaft, therefore, universal joints allow for slight movement in angle and height. Some drive shafts have more than two universal joints, some placed close together, a double-cardan joint for example, giving the drive shaft even more flexibility. In the steering shaft, smaller universal joints allow for movement between the body and frame and steering gear. Universal joint failure, usually due to lack of lubrication and corrosion, can reduce the flexibility of the joint, leading to vibration or even joint failure. Of course, if the joint fails, then the drive shaft could fall off, and the vehicle would be stuck.... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Transmission Transfusion? Like manual transmissions, automatic transmissions step down the speed of the engine, to something more useful, to drive the wheels. The automatic transmission still uses gears to do so but does not require the driver to manually operate the clutch and select the desired gear. Instead, using a hydraulic system, the automatic transmission engages and disengages the appropriate gears, depending on driver demand, engine speed, and engine load. Automatic transmission fluid does not last forever, and so must be changed when it is worn out. Draining and refilling the transmission isn't effective, however, since just a fraction of the fluid drains from the pan. Some automatic transmissions don't even come equipped for drain and refill procedures. On the other hand, a transmission transfusion can usually replace more than 90% of the used transmission fluid in the system. Why is a Transmission Transfusion Important? Because it is constantly subjected to temperature and pressure changes, automatic transmission fluid must be specially formulated for the application. Still, automatic transmission fluid lifespan is limited. Some automatic transmissions suggest automatic transmission fluid replacement intervals anywhere from 30,000 miles to the life of the vehicle, depending on year, make, model, and usage. Still, with the average American car pushing 12 years of age, the "life" of the vehicle is going even beyond manufacturer expectations. While even "lifetime" transmissions don't even come equipped with a dipstick or drain plug, it may be a good idea to have... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Transmission Service? There are two major types of transmissions in most vehicles: automatic and manual. Several other types of have also been coming to market in recent years. The dual-clutch transmission functions on principles similar to that of the manual transmission, but with computer control, bridging the gap between manual and automatic. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) does away with individual gears altogether, ramping up its power transmission ratio according to a set of rules. And electric cars often don't have a transmission at all, strictly speaking, having just a single fixed ratio to transmit power to the wheels. A vehicle's transmission is one of its most important parts; without it, the engine could never reach the wheels and the car would be worthless. Proper maintenance on your transmission is crucial to your car's optimal running condition. Without it, your car may fail to accelerate or leak fluid. A transmission service is part of your routine maintenance, just like replacing your engine oil. A complete transmission service should include: removing and examining the sump or pan (where possible) replacing or cleaning the screen or filter cleaning the pan reinstalling the pan with a new pan gasket pumping out the rest of the old fluid and replacing it with new, high quality ATF adding a friction modifier or additive package (model specific) Why is Transmission Service Important? New fluid restores the holding power between the clutches, reducing slip and heat production. At the same... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Tie Rod Ends? If you were only able to move in straight lines, you wouldn't be able to get anywhere very efficiently, which is why cars are equipped with steering wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, your effort is transmitted to the power steering box or rack and pinion. The steering box or steering rack converts your rotary motion into linear motion, pushing and pulling your front wheels to the left or right, depending on which way you'd like to go. Because the wheels need to turn left and right, as well as bounce up and down, small ball-and-socket joints are required to allow for this motion. Tie rod ends connect the steering knuckle to the power steering box or rack. On steering-box vehicles, there is an outer tie rod end at the steering knuckle. On steering rack vehicles, there are both inner and outer tie rod ends. Why are Tie Rod Ends Important? Because they allow for a range of motion, tie rod ends serve two important functions. First, they push or pull the front wheels in the direction you wish to go. Second, they need to maintain alignment angles, specifically toe-in, the angle of the tire in relation to the centerline of the vehicle. If the small ball-and-socket joint is loose, it will not hold this angle reliably, possibly causing vibration or abnormal tire wear. If the joint is exceptionally loose, it could fall apart, causing you to lose control... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Thermostats? Engine cooling system thermostats perform a function similar to home thermostats. When the engine is cold, the water pump circulates engine coolant only within the engine. As the engine coolant absorbs heat from the cylinders, it eventually reaches whatever temperature the automaker has set for efficient operation. At that point, the thermostat, a heat-sensitive valve, opens to allow heated coolant out of the engine circuit and into the radiator circuit. Cooling system hoses carry hot engine coolant to the radiator, where it releases much of that heat to the air. Cooled coolant returns to the engine via another cooling system hose. Because thermostats are heat-sensitive, they open and close automatically and variably, depending on how much heat is produced in the engine. Depending on engine design, thermostats can be located almost anywhere on the engine, but are usually fairly accessible, in case of failure. Why are Thermostats Important? Thermostats are critical to engine performance and fuel economy, as they maintain engine operating temperature within the range necessary for efficient fuel vaporization, so the engine can extract the most power per drop of fuel. Too cold, and the fuel won't vaporize as easily, leading to losses in performance and increased fuel consumption. Too hot, and fuel vapors could spontaneously combust, leading to engine ping, detonation, and possible engine damage. Because thermostats are under constant thermal stress, they can fail in one of two ways. In the first failure scenario, the thermostat's metal cage... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Steering Systems? Unlike trains, which have a choice of going forwards or backwards, automobiles are more flexible, forwards, backwards, left, and right. Various steering systems have been used over the years, but most vehicles today feature some kind of power steering system. The steering system's purpose is to convert rotary motion, from the steering wheel, to linear motion, pushing the front wheels left and right. Today, most cars and light trucks and SUVs use hydraulically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering systems. Hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as some conventional vehicles, use electrically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Rack-and-pinion steering offers better steering feel and has fewer moving parts to wear out. Some light SUVs and most heavy SUVs and trucks still use an older technology, hydraulically-assisted recirculating ball steering, which is more powerful and resilient. Why are Steering Systems Important? Of course, without steering systems, we could only go in straight lines, and anyone who drives in St. Louis knows that few straight lines make up the average commute. Because of their importance and complexity, attention needs to be paid to steering systems on all vehicles. These many moving parts include the steering gear, steering wheel and intermediate shaft, power steering pump or electrical system, and even parts of the front suspension, such as ball joints, MacPherson struts, and tie rod ends. The most common steering system problem is power steering fluid leaks, which can make a mess of your driveway, as well as result in increased steering... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Starter? Back when automobiles were first invented, the engine was started by hand, using a crank or rope, but today's engines are far too powerful to be cranked over by hand. When starting the engine, today we use the ignition cylinder or push-button starter. The starter is a small electric motor that temporarily engages with the flywheel on the back of the engine. When you turn the key to the start position or press the start button, the starter engages with the flywheel, turning the engine. Once the engine is turning fast enough, the fuel injection and ignition system engage and run the engine. At this point, you can release the key or start button, and the starter disengages. Why is the Starter Important? Without the starter, you can't start the engine, which means you're not going anywhere. If you have a friend to tow your vehicle or you park on a hill, you might be able to start a manual-transmission vehicle without a starter, but we think you'll agree that starting your car is much easier with the starter. What are Some Common Problems with the Starter? The operation of the starter is electrical and mechanical, depending on the battery, electrical system, ignition switch or push button, solenoid, electric motor, and a spur gear. Here are a few common problems with the starter: A weak battery may not deliver enough energy to run the starter motor and turn over the engine.... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Serpentine Belt? In all vehicles, the engine is constructed a few hundred moving parts, such as the crankshaft, pistons, camshafts, and valves. Internally, their movement is governed by timing gears, timing belts, or timing chains. In addition to the engine, most vehicles also include accessories that are driven by the engine, such as air conditioning, the alternator, or power steering. These are driven by the engine, via one or more drive belts. Whereas older engines used multiple belts, sometimes one or two per accessory, many newer engines have moved over to a single multi-vee drive belt. Because of the way that the belt is routed, turning back and forth around many pulleys, it is commonly referred to as a "serpentine belt. " Why is the Serpentine Belt Important? The serpentine belt drives all the accessories needed for the engine to function and for your ride to be comfortable. The alternator keeps the electrical system at a constant voltage, both for engine function and for comfort and convenience items, such as the radio and power windows. The air conditioner compressor is needed to run the HVAC system, for keeping cool in summer and defogging windows in storms and in Winter. The power steering pump greatly decreases steering effort at low speed, such as during parking maneuvers. On some vehicles, other equipment may be run by the serpentine belt, such as a hydraulic pump or secondary alternator. If the serpentine belt is slipping, one... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Radiator Replacement? The radiator is a major component of the engine cooling system. While the water pump pushes coolant through the engine and radiator, via hoses, the radiator's function is to allow heat to escape into the atmosphere. To facilitate this heat transfer, from the coolant to the air, the radiator core, the working part, is made of thin metal, usually aluminum or copper, though some are still made of steel. The tanks on the ends may also be made of metal, but many new ones are made of plastic. If there is a problem with the radiator, radiator replacement may be necessary. Why is Radiator Replacement Important? There are a few reasons that a radiator might fail, requiring radiator replacement. Because the radiator is typically right out front, just behind the grille, road debris could clog the radiator core or damage the fins, reducing radiator effectiveness. Cleaning out the radiator with a pressure washer and adjusting the fins with a radiator comb can help, but this kind of damage isn't usually noticed until it's too late, such as when accumulated dust, dirt, and grime have encouraged corrosion and the radiator has started leaking. Road debris or a minor accident may cause physical damage to the radiator, and it doesn't take much to break the thin metal tubes that make up the radiator core or the plastic tanks. In case of a leak, radiator replacement might be needed to restore engine cooling system... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Radiator Flush? Your car's radiator is a reservoir that holds water and antifreeze to help keep the engine cool, and will occasionally require a radiator flush. The radiator not only helps cool the engine when it is running, it also helps keep the engine from freezing up during the winter when the car is parked. Depending upon the type of vehicle you have, a radiator can be very small to relatively large, and will be filled with a combination of water and antifreeze (or sometimes just antifreeze). Over time, radiators can become dirty, or water and antifreeze may contain too many impurities that render the antifreeze ineffective at cooling the engine. When this happens, the radiator needs to be flushed. Why is a Radiator Flush Service Important? It is important for you to keep your coolant/antifreeze flushed and your radiator properly maintained. Major engine damage can occur if neglected, including damage to the radiator, heater core, and other cooling system components. There is no set rule for how often you should get your radiator flushed. The frequency of radiator flushes will depend on several factors, such as your own driving habits and the quality of antifreeze you use. Occasionally flushing your car's radiator will help extend the useful life of your vehicle. Over time, the antifreeze in your vehicle may become acidic and lose its ability to help protect the engine from extreme temperatures. A skilled service technician can test the acidity... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is the Rack and Pinion? Practically all vehicles have a power steering system, and most passenger vehicles on the road today use rack-and-pinion steering gear to convert steering wheel effort to turning wheels. We refer to "rack and pinion" to differentiate it from older vehicles and some trucks, which still use older recirculating-ball steering gear technology. Why is the Rack and Pinion Important? Without the rack and pinion, you wouldn't be able to steer your vehicle, making it one of the more critical components on your car. When you turn the steering wheel, the steering shaft turns a small gear, the "pinion" gear, inside the steering gear assembly. The pinion gear is meshed with a straight "rack" gear, which is connected to the steering knuckles via tie rods. Turning the pinion gear forces the rack gear left or right, moving the wheels left or right. On hydraulic power steering systems, the power steering pump provides up to 1,600 psi of hydraulic force to assist steering at low speeds, such as during parking maneuvers. Electric power steering systems use electric motors to assist the driver in a similar way. What can Matthews Do for You? The rack and pinion gear system itself is robust, and isn't usually prone to failure, but the seals at the ends of the rack can often be problematic, leading to hydraulic leaks or water incursion. Bushing or pinion wear can lead to a loose feeling in the steering wheel, as... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Oxygen Sensors? First, a very short chemistry lesson in ideal automotive combustion: hydrocarbon fuel + oxygen + spark → energy + carbon dioxide + water To keep the engine running efficiently, extracting as much power from a given charge of fuel and oxygen, the engine control module (ECM) monitors oxygen content of the exhaust, using oxygen sensors to determine how much to adjust fuel injection. Oxygen sensors react to the oxygen content in the exhaust, comparing it to that in the air. Since the implementation of automotive on-board diagnostics systems, various forms of OBD since 1968 and federally-mandated OBD2 since 1996, oxygen sensors have been at the forefront of monitoring engine performance and efficiency. Why are Oxygen Sensors Important? The modern OBD2 ECM uses multiple oxygen sensors, sometimes referred to as air-fuel ratio sensors, to fine-tune engine performance and efficiency. Additionally, oxygen sensors after the catalytic converter are used to monitor catalytic converter function. When there is high exhaust oxygen, this means that too little fuel is being injected, which is referred to as a lean mixture. To improve engine performance and prevent unburned fuel from getting into the atmosphere, the ECM increases fuel injection. When there is low exhaust oxygen, this means that too much fuel is being injected, which is referred to as a rich mixture. To prevent engine damage and the production of nitrogen-oxide pollutants, the ECM decreases fuel injection. The ECM constantly compares oxygen sensor readings before and after... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Mufflers and Tailpipes? At the heart of every gasoline- or diesel-engine vehicle is an internal combustion engine. The key to its operation is right in the name, "combustion" or burning of fuel. The engine converts the explosive force of the combusted fuel into mechanical energy, which eventually gets to the wheels to get you around. Still, only about 20% of that energy ever gets to the ground, the rest being wasted as heat and noise. Mufflers and tailpipes route these waste products; carbon dioxide, water, heat, and noise; out the back of the vehicle. The engine exhaust system includes the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler, all connected by exhaust pipes, and exits the vehicle via the tailpipe. Mufflers and tailpipes perform two very important functions: damping excessive noise and routing hot exhaust gasses away from the vehicle. Why are Mufflers and Tailpipes Important? The muffler may look like an oversized part of the exhaust, but it's more than just empty space. The muffler chamber is filled with insulation, baffles, and tubes that reroute and dull the sound of the exhaust on the way through. Properly designed, engine exhaust is relatively quiet, but doesn't restrict exhaust flow enough to reduce engine performance or fuel economy - performance mufflers have fewer internal restrictions, which is why they're louder than the typical sedan or economy car. Tailpipes serve an important function, routing hot exhaust gases out the back of the vehicle. The engine exhaust is... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Wires? Gasoline internal combustion engines power most passenger vehicles, simply because it's the most-popular fuel around and the ignition system is reliable. For the compressed air and gasoline mixture to burn, it needs a spark. The energy for the spark is generated in the ignition coil, ramping up 12 V from the alternator to as much as 20,000 V, for just 0. 8 ms to 2. 4 ms, sending it through ignition wires to the spark plug, in the cylinder head. Older vehicles used a single coil and a distributor to send spark energy through individual ignition wires to each spark plug, so there were as many ignition wires as there were cylinders, plus one for the coil. Newer distributor-less ignition systems (DIS) did away with the distributor, instead using multiple coils, controlled electronically, to fire the spark plug. These DIS systems have as many ignition wires as cylinders. Some waste-spark DIS used a single coil per pair of cylinders, and some dual ignition systems used two spark plugs, and therefore two ignition wires, per cylinder. DIS coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems shortened the distance, mounting the ignition coil directly over the spark plug. Most COP systems have one coil per cylinder, but some older waste-spark COP systems used a second ignition wire to fire an additional cylinder spark plug. No matter what kind of ignition system, there are always ignition wires to conduct spark energy to the spark plug. Why are Ignition... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Idler Arms? When you turn the steering wheel, there must be some way to convert that rotary motion to linear motion, that is, to push and pull the front wheels to the left and to the right. In older vehicles through the 1980s and some light SUVs and heavy SUVs and trucks through today, this is accomplished via a recirculating-ball steering gear. The steering gear converts a lot of your rotary motion into a tiny rotary motion, moving the pitman arm through and arc of maybe 60°. It's not exactly linear, but it's close enough for the rest of the steering linkage, tie rods, and idler arms. (On almost all vehicles since the 1990s, recirculating ball steering has been replaced by a truly rotary-to-linear solution, the rack and pinion. ) As the steering gear turns the pitman arm, the pitman arm pushes the track rod to the left or right, depending on which way the driver is turning the steering wheel. Because the suspension and steering allows for movement, both up and down and turning left and right, the steering linkage is composed of several pieces, connected by flexible joints. Fixed at the steering knuckles and at the pitman arm, the right side of the track rod would simply drop if it was not supported. Also, the unsupported track road would simply buckle if attempting to turn the right wheel. The idler arm's job is to hold up the right side of the... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Control Modules? Not even fifty years ago, automobiles were purely electromechanical creations, everything controlled by simple electrical and mechanical concepts. It worked, but it wasn't always the most efficient or most powerful. To improve engine performance, increase fuel economy, and reduce emissions, automakers turned to electronic controls, which offered better accuracy and precision. The first control modules appeared only in the early 1970s, at first on ignition systems, but eventually controlling and monitoring practically every automobile function. When referring to control modules, most people think of the engine controller or transmission module, as these are arguably the most critical. In the modern automobile, dozens of electronic control modules are responsible for controlling everything from the dome light and power locks to the engine and transmission. Really, nearly everything in the modern automobile is controlled this way. Why are Control Modules Important? Using sensors and actuators, control modules can sense and react in fractions of a second, resulting in more precision and higher accuracy. The ABS (anti-lock brake system) can detect wheel lockup in an instant, releasing and applying a single brake as fast as 15 times per second. The ECM (engine control module) monitors dozens of sensors to fine tune fuel trim, variable valve timing, and spark timing for performance and fuel economy control. Even something as "simple" as a power sliding door or power hatch is run by one or more control modules, using speed, position, and limit sensors to control electric... Matthew's Tire Blog The latest automotive news and resources to help keep you rolling. AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ignition Coils? To ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in a gasoline engine, powering most of today's vehicles, a spark is critical. The spark plug is mounted in the cylinder, but ignition coils generate the energy needed to create a spark hot enough to jump the gap and ignite the fuel. Ignition coils are small step-up transformers, ramping up 12 V from the car's electrical system to near 20,000 V. To make a spark, the ignition system powers up an individual ignition coil's primary coil momentarily, creating a powerful magnetic field. When the 12-V primary windings are disconnected, the magnetic field collapses, generating a high voltage spike in the ignition coil's secondary windings. The secondary windings are connected to the spark plug via high-voltage ignition wires. For just a couple milliseconds, the spark reaches upwards of 5,000 °K (8,500 °F). Depending on the vehicle, there may be one or more ignition coils. Older distributor ignition system used a single ignition coil for all cylinders. Some older distributor-less ignition systems (DIS) used one ignition coil per cylinder or one per pair of cylinders. Most modern DIS engines use coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils, one per cylinder, mounted directly on the spark plugs. Why are Ignition Coils Important? Ignition coils are critical to the function of the gasoline engine, but their exposure to the heat of the engine causes them to degrade over time. Aged ignition coils may not generate enough voltage for a reliable spark, or... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Headlight Replacement? Headlights provide night vision and daytime visibility. Headlights come in various types, such as halogen, xenon, LED, and HID, varying in brightness, color, projection, and price. While bulb technology and reliability has improved much over the years, none last forever. Polycarbonate headlight lenses tend to degrade over time, reacting chemically with exhaust compounds and by ultraviolet light from the sun. A blown headlight bulb is the most common problem requiring headlight replacement. Halogen bulbs tend to last around 750 hours, while HID bulbs tend to last around 2,000 hours. Some non-HID xenon bulbs have been known to last up to 10,000 hours. Usually, headlight replacement of this type requires only basic hand tools and a delicate touch, so as not to dirty the bulb or break the filament. Stones and impacts might result in a cracked headlight lens, which would also require headlight replacement. Headlight condensation, caused by cracks or poor sealing, might also require replacement. This is significantly more expensive and intensive than simply replacing a bulb. In many cases of headlight yellowing and "fogging," headlight replacement may not be required, as headlight restoration can remove the chemically-altered surface and restore clear lenses. A well-done headlight restoration is significantly less expensive than headlight replacement, restoring over 95% light transmission and night visibility. Why is Headlight Replacement Important? Your vehicle has several illuminating systems, such as marker lights, turn signals, brake lights, headlights, and taillights. These lighting systems serve to improve... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fuel Injectors? All engines require three basic things to run - air, fuel, and spark. If any one of them is not present in time or quantity, the engine will run poorly, if at all. All diesel engines and, since the mid-1980s, gasoline engines have been equipped with fuel injectors, spraying fuel in or near the cylinder. Older fuel injection systems were mechanical, but modern fuel injection systems are controlled electronically by the engine control module (ECM). Fuel is delivered, under pressure, to the fuel injectors by a fuel pump, usually in or near the fuel tank. Gasoline direct injection (GDI) and diesel engines also use a secondary mechanical fuel pump, mounted on the engine, to increase fuel pressure for direct injection. The ECM determines how much fuel to inject, and when, depending on engine load, temperature, speed, driver demand, and several other factors. Why are Fuel Injectors Important? As fuel is one of the three critical "ingredients" of a properly-running engine, fuel injector problems can manifest themselves in several ways. Here are just a few fuel injector problems and possible symptoms: Clogged Fuel Injector - Fuel injector spray pattern is precise and critical for efficient fuel vaporization and combustion. A partially-clogged fuel injector could "dribble" a little, instead of emitting a fine atomized spray, leading to poor performance, cylinder misfire, an erroneous fuel system "rich" condition, even catalytic converter damage. A fully-clogged fuel injector won't allow fuel into the cylinder, leading to... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Fuel Filter Replacement? Gasoline and diesel fuel makes a long journey from refinery to exhaust pipe. Along the way, it picks up contaminants that could affect how your engine runs. Transport trucks are flushed regularly, but fuel station holding tanks aren't, and this is where contaminants are typically found, such as dust, silt, and rust. Fortunately, fuel filters feature big in most parts of the refining and delivery process, but there's on more fuel filter in your vehicle, the last line of defense. If you're experiencing performance problems, caused by low fuel pressure or flow, fuel filter replacement may be recommended. Why is Fuel Filter Replacement Important? Cruising at 60 mph, if your engine is rolling over at 3,000 rpm, the engine control module (ECM) pulses each fuel injector about 1,500 times per minute. The fuel injector spray orifices range from 50 µm to 200 µm, or about the thickness of a human hair. Considering that fuel injectors have a useful lifespan of 250,000 miles or more, over 375 million injector pulses, delivering over 12,500 gallons of clean fuel to the injectors is an absolute necessity. The fuel filter is usually located in or near the fuel tank, and can filter our contaminants from 10 µm to 75 µm in size, preventing particles from getting into the rest of the fuel system, such as the gasoline direct injection (GDI) high-pressure pump or the fuel injectors. If the fuel filter gets clogged after filtering... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Fan Belts? Aside from the engine itself, there are various accessories that run off it, such as the generator and air conditioning compressor. These are usually driven by V-belts, multi-V-belts, or serpentine belts, though some are driven via an electric motor. Most modern vehicles use electric cooling fans for the radiator, but most older vehicles had a belt-driven fan and usually a belt-driven water pump, often on the same pulley. Strictly-speaking, "fan belts" should only refer to the belts that drive the fan, just like "alternator belts" and "power steering belts" should only refer to the belts that drive the alternator and power steering pump. Still, "fan belts" is often understood to refer to any one of them - some vehicles could have up to a half-dozen "fan belts," not all of them driving just the fan! Why are Fan Belts Important? Via a series of pulleys, fan belts enable to engine to do more, such as running accessories to provide electricity, air conditioning, power steering, and engine cooling. Depending on engine and accessory design, fan belts could be absolutely critical to engine function and longevity. in such cases, a broken fan belt could lead to engine overheating and possible engine damage or a dead battery and dead engine. Other fan belt failures might result in difficult steering or inoperative air conditioning, for example. Fan belts can fail in a several ways, slipping, squeaking, squealing, or chirping. Loose fan belts might slip, but... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are CV Axles? The torque to move the typical front-wheel drive (FWD) is produced in the engine, stepped up through the transmission, and then transmitted to the wheels via the differential and CV axles. Front-engine rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles have a driveshaft for the rear differential and axles. Four-wheel drive (4WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles also have a second differential, drive shaft, and axles to transmit power to the other wheels. Transmitting power in a straight line is a simple matter, but suspension and steering movement require drive shafts and axles to be flexible. U-joints and CV axles allow for movement and power transmission. Because driveshaft angles vary little, just a few degrees, U-joints are typically used for this purpose - older 4WD vehicles used U-joints on the front axles as well. However, because the steering wheels on front-wheel drive vehicles turn through a much greater range, up to 52 °, constant velocity (CV) joints are used. Modern FWD vehicles use CV axles to drive the front wheels, and modern independent-suspension RWD and AWD vehicles may use CV axles to drive the rear wheels. At each end of a CV axle is a CV joint, and there are two main types used - Rzeppa and Spicer. These are filled with grease for lubrication, and covered by a flexible plastic or rubber boot. The CV boot keeps the grease in and water and other contaminants out of the joint. If the boot is intact,... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is a Coolant Transfusion? The engine cooling system serves a very important function, maintaining the proper temperature for performance and fuel economy. When the engine is too cold, such as the first start on a cold day, it doesn't vaporize fuel as efficiently. If the engine is too hot, it can result in fuel vaporizing too quickly and lubrication breakdown. Either way, too hot or too cold, the engine doesn't work properly and could be damaged. Over time, engine coolant breaks down, and many manufacturers suggest a coolant transfusion between 60,000 miles and 100,000 miles, older vehicles as often as every 30,000 miles. Why is a Coolant Transfusion Important? Engine coolant replacement can be a simple DIY job, but there are problems with the typical drain-and-fill procedure. First, it can be messy, resulting in spilled coolant, toxic to animals and the environment. Second, drain-and-fill procedures, even followed carefully, can result in air pockets. This can result in poor coolant flow, hot spots, overheating, and possible engine damage. A coolant transfusion does the same thing as a drain-and-fill, but far more efficiently and cleanly, taking just a few minutes to replace engine coolant. The coolant transfusion machine has two tanks and a coolant pump, and tubes to connect to your engine's cooling system. The pump forces new coolant into the system through one tube, while it recovers used coolant through another tube, depositing it into a waste tank. After a coolant transfusion, clean coolant maintains... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Compressor Service? The air conditioning system is nearly essential for a comfortable ride in any humid Missouri Summer and improves visibility by defogging windows in the Winter. The air conditioning compressor is the most critical component in the system, pressurizing the refrigerant and circulating it through tubes, hoses, evaporator, and condenser. Compressor service may be required if you are experiencing problems with your air conditioning system. The air conditioning compressor is a compact unit, with inlet and outlet ports, internal pistons and valves, and a shaft to move the swash plate and pistons. Sensors detect pressure and speed, and seals keep lubricant and refrigerant from escaping the system. The belt-driven fixed-displacement compressor is cycled by an electromagnetic clutch, while constant-running variable-displacement compressor output is controlled internally. Hybrid vehicles use a high-voltage electric motor to run the air conditioning compressor. Circulating with the refrigerant, lubricant protects moving parts and maintains seals. Most vehicles use PAG (polyalkylene glycol) oil, though some vehicles may use PAO (Polyalphaolefin) oil. Hybrid vehicles use POE (polyol ester) oil, because it is non-conductive, and older vehicles use mineral oil. Why is Compressor Service Important? To keep your air conditioning system working, regular compressor service is required. If your air conditioning system is working fine, then you likely don't need compressor service, but if you are experiencing problems, compressor service may be required to restore full function. Here are a few reasons you may need compressor service: A refrigerant leak could... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Cabin Air Filter Replacement? Since the mid-1990s, the cabin air filter has made the daily drive a little bit easier on everyone, including allergy sufferers. Located in the climate control air box, the cabin air filter cleans air from the outside of the vehicle, removing dust, pollen, and other particles before it gets a chance to blow out the vents. As with all filters, these filters fill up over time, making cabin air filter replacement necessary. Most automakers suggest cabin air filter replacement every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it depends on the season and what's in the air on your daily drive. Some dusty conditions or high pollen weeks can choke a cabin air filter in far less than the recommended service interval. Depending on the circumstances, cabin air filter replacement might be necessary as soon as 5,000 or 6,000 miles. Most cabin air filters are not easily accessible, sometimes mounted under the hood, under the dash, behind the glove box, or hidden somewhere else. Instructions to replace the cabin filter may be in your owner's manual. Why is Cabin Air Filter Replacement Important? Research suggests about 20% of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, not including millions more who suffer allergies due to dust and mold. On the road, too, there are many kinds of dust getting kicked up in your path. Every mile of road contains dust, dirt, soot, pollen, insects, animal droppings, and other debris. Additionally, humid conditions may encourage... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Ball Joints? Without the suspension, your daily ride would be just a bit uncomfortable, if not downright dangerous. Even on the smoothest of roads, the suspension needs to move up and down to keep all four tires firmly planted on the ground and give you a comfortable ride. In the front, not only does the suspension need to move up and down, but also the steering system needs to turn left and right. While bushings generally allow for movement on a single axis, up-down or forward-backward, for example, ball joints allow for movement on three axes, up-down, forward-backward, and left-right. Why are Ball Joints Important? There are two ball joints per side in an independent suspension, while there is only a single lower ball joint in a MacPherson strut suspension. In both independent front suspension and MacPherson strut suspension systems, ball joints serve two critical functions. First, they need to allow for free movement on three axes. At the same time, they need to keep the wheel alignment true. The ball-and-socket joint serves this purpose well, but it can cause problems if it wears out. What are Some Common Problems with Ball Joints? You might need to have ball joints looked at if you are experiencing problems with your vehicle. Here are a few reasons you might want to ask your technician about it. If the steering wheel feels loose or your vehicle wanders, you may have a loose ball joint or tie... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is an Alternator? When you start your car, it's the battery that supplies the push needed to get the engine running. Once the engine is running, though, it's the alternator that supplies the electricity needed to to run the engine, lighting, air conditioning, and radio, as well as to keep the battery fully charged. The alternator, also called a generator, is driven by a belt connected to the engine. Why is the Alternator Important? While the battery under the hood of your car is indeed powerful, it has limited capacity. You might be able to run the radio for a few hours, but if you leave the lights on, it'll drain the battery overnight. Similarly, the engine uses a lot of energy while it's running, such as to fire the fuel injectors and spark plugs, and this would quickly drain the battery. Add in headlights, defrosters, and air conditioning, and you might be able to get just a few minutes out of the battery. The alternator generates electricity when the engine is running, which is more than enough to keep the battery charged and run everything. With the alternator at full working capacity, your run time is no longer limited by a small 12 V battery, but by the size of your fuel tank. If the generator fails, however, you're quickly going to run out of "juice" and you won't be able to go very far. What are Some Common Problems with Alternators? The... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Induction Service? An air induction service, or intake cleaning, is a method of cleaning the air intake system without disassembling it. Using special chemical cleaning agents, deposits are dissolved for safe combustion in the cylinders. The air induction service could take up to an hour, depending on the severity of the deposits and how complex the air intake system is on your particular vehicle. An air induction service is preferred to a full rebuild and individual parts cleaning, because it takes far less time and is far less expensive. Otherwise, intake cleaning could take several hours, if not days. Air induction service is often recommended for vehicles every 30,000 miles or if you are experiencing rough idle, poor performance, reduced fuel economy, or other intake system problems. Why is Air Induction Service Important? The air intake system on your vehicle is designed to bring in relatively cooler air, from outside the engine bay, and deliver it to the cylinders. Along the way, the air is cleaned by the air filter, measured by the MAF (mass air flow) sensor, controlled by the throttle, and maybe measured again by the MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor, before flowing past the intake valves. Though cleaned, this air also carries oil from the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system and some other contaminants. In the hot environment of the engine, it's no wonder that this ends up forming deposits throughout the intake system, particularly on the throttle body,... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Filter Replacement? Most automakers suggest engine air filter replacement annually, or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, as a preventative measure. It may need to be replaced sooner, depending on conditions where you live and drive. It's a good idea to inspect the air filter every time you have the engine oil changed. Air filter replacement is usually suggested when it's clogged with debris, too oily from blow-by, degraded or falling apart, or if it's been damaged. The engine air filter is usually located under the hood in the air box, and usually doesn't require more than basic hand tools to access. When considering air filter replacement, it is important to use a quality air filter that fits exactly in the air box. Installing the wrong air filter or installing it improperly is just as good as leaving it out. Why is Air Filter Replacement Important? Like you, your engine "breathes" air, using it to oxidize fuel and power your engine - the average 36-mpg car sucks in some 9,000 gallons of air per gallon of fuel, along with everything else that's floating in the air. The engine air filter keeps dust, dirt, insects, and road debris from getting into your engine intake, where it can block sensors, clog valves, and foul spark plugs and fuel injectors. The engine air filter also keeps abrasive dust and dirt from contaminating the engine oil, where it would lead to excessive wear on metal parts in... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Keep Your Engine Running Strong with Regular Oil Changes Changing your engine oil is one of the simplest and most important ways to extend the life of your vehicle. Fresh oil reduces friction, keeps engine parts lubricated, and helps regulate engine temperature. According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), clean oil can reduce engine wear by as much as 50%, while neglecting oil changes is one of the leading causes of premature engine failure. At Matthews, we follow manufacturer-recommended service intervals and use only high-quality motor oils that meet or exceed API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC industry standards. Pair your oil change with a tire rotation service to keep your tread wearing evenly and extend tire life. How Often Should You Change Your Oil? Most modern vehicles recommend an oil change every 5,000-7,500 miles when using synthetic oil but driving conditions can shorten that interval. According to AAA research, more than 30% of drivers delay oil changes beyond manufacturer guidelines, increasing the risk of costly repairs. You may need oil service more often if you: Drive in stop-and-go St. Louis traffic Tow trailers or carry heavy loads Drive in extreme heat or cold (common in Missouri seasons) Use dirt or gravel roads Own a high-mileage or older engine that burns oil Always check your owner's manual for the exact recommendation for your make and model. Why Choose Matthews for Your Oil Change There are plenty of quick-lube shops, but Dobbs goes beyond a... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex system of tubes, hoses, and radiators, using a compressor to pump refrigerant through the system and sensors and switches to monitor and control it. Air conditioning service is often suggested in Spring and Fall, right before the seasons they'll be required the most. The typical air conditioning service involves checking system pressures to see they are in the proper range, and looking for an appropriate temperature drop inside the cabin. Using an air conditioning recovery-recharge machine, a technician removes and filters refrigerant from the system, then confirms the system doesn't have any leaks. After recharging the air conditioning system with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor oil, sometimes adding an ultraviolet-sensitive dye, the technician checks to see that the compressor is working properly and system pressures fall within normal tolerances. If there's a problem, air conditioning service may need to go deeper, perhaps identifying the source of a leak or diagnosing an electrical problem. After a thorough diagnosis, your technician may recommend additional air conditioning services, such as air box cleaning, hose or tube replacement, O-ring replacement, or compressor clutch service. A thorough air conditioning service may also address other engine problems, such as drive belt or serpentine belt tension or condition or engine overheating problems. Why is Air Conditioning Service Important? The air conditioning system is essentially a heat pump, pulling heat energy from inside the cabin and... TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Balancing? Tire balancing refers to the dynamic balance of the tire and wheel assembly. In constructing the tire and the wheel, there are always inconsistencies. By strategically adding calibrated weights to the wheel, the technician can compensate for these inconsistencies. Because balancing only adds a few minutes to tire rotation, it is usually suggested to balance tires at the same time. Why is Balance Important? As your tires accumulate miles, they wear down and may become deformed. Tire balance tends to shift over time as this occurs, which results in vibration. It's not particularly dangerous, but tire vibration could lead to accelerated suspension and steering wear. For the smoothest ride, asking your technician to balance tires is a step in the right direction. When Do You Need to Balance Tires? While tire age and mileage has a direct impact on traction and safety, tire balancing has a direct impact on tire lifespan and comfort. Generally, here are a few circumstances in which you should consider this service: When you mount new tires, most installers will balance tires as part of the service. Every 4,000 to 6,000 miles, usually at the same time you get your engine oil changed, you should have your tires rotated and balanced. If you feel a vibration at a certain speed. For example, if you feel a vibration at 45 mph but at no other speed, you may have a tire balance issue. If you feel a vibration... TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What are Tire Rotations? To help your tires last as long as possible, it is recommended to rotate and balance tires every 4,000 to 6,000 miles. When you rotate tires, you change their positions, so the front tires may go to the rear, and the rear tires may go to the front. Each vehicle has a suggested tire rotation pattern, which may include the spare tire or swapping left and right. Vehicles with different-sized tires cannot have a tire rotation, and directional tires will restrict tire rotation to front-to-rear only. Why are Tire Rotations Important? At the four corners of your vehicle, you have four tires, which are your only tie to the pavement, wet or dry, smooth or rough. Though they pretty much travel all the same parts of the road, their positions lead to different wear patterns, depending on whether they're driving or trailing or turning. Individual driving habits may also affect tire wear patterns. To distribute these wear patterns, it's a good idea to rotate tires. That way, each tire wears evenly over the life of the set. When Do You Need to Rotate Tires? While tire age and mileage has a direct impact on traction and safety, tire rotation and tire balancing has a direct impact on tire lifespan and comfort. Generally, here are a few circumstances in which you should consider this service: When you mount new tires, most installers will balance tires as part of the service. Every 4,000... TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Flat Repair? Automotive tires are much more than rugged air-filled donuts, quite complicated in their construction and manufacture, everything designed to deliver traction, comfort, and safe travels for many miles. Under ideal conditions, tires may last from 20,000 miles to 50,000 miles, or more - touring tires last far longer than sport tires - but that's only tread life. For a tire, the road is a dangerous place. Road debris, curbs, and potholes can easily lead to punctures and leaks. Flat repair is an important service to add to your contact list. Why is Flat Repair Important? Tires perform several functions, and all depend on maintaining proper tire pressure. Properly-inflated tires keep the tread on the road, supporting the weight of the vehicle without "rolling over" in corners. Inflated tires have less rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Tires are also an important part of your suspension, soaking up small bumps and improving shock absorption and ride comfort. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, leading to excessive shoulder wear, overheating, and possible blowout. If one or more tires leaks, it will result in loss of traction, poor fuel economy, poor comfort, impacted safety, and possible blowout. A competent flat repair technician can determine the cause of the leak and suggest a safe repair or replacement option - some flats simply cannot be repaired. Because tires are such an important safety item, following proper flat repair procedure is serious business. Generally, if the puncture is less... TIRE & WHEEL SERVICES Title What is Wheel Alignment? Wheel alignment, sometimes called breaking or tracking, refers to standard adjustment of suspension system connecting the vehicle to its wheels. Why is Wheel Alignment Important? Wheel alignment is part of standard vehicle maintenance consisting of adjusting the angles of the wheels so they are set to the manufacturer's exact specification. The purpose of these adjustments is to reduce tire wear, and to ensure that the vehicle travels straight and consistent, without pulling to one side. Alignment angles can also be altered beyond the maker's specifications to obtain a specific handling characteristic. All new vehicles leave the factory with the alignment checked and adjusted. It is advisable to have your car's alignment checked after the first 3,000 miles, since all the suspension gets set. Failure to do so may result in the camber and toe specifications drifting outside the manufacturer's limit, leading to vehicle pulling and tire wear. If your vehicle drives as straight as an arrow, your wheels are most likely properly aligned. However, it is a good idea to have your alignment checked annually, such as when you have your tires rotated. Improper alignment can cause uneven wear on your tires, which can lead your tires wearing down faster and not handling as well as they should when properly aligned. Without proper alignment, you could have a difficult time maintaining control of your vehicle when driving. Wheel alignment is important for overall vehicle safety but also for maintaining and extending... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Your Car's Suspension System A vehicle shock absorber is designed with a single purpose: keeping the car from bouncing. Struts are a structural part of the suspension system and are mounted to the vehicle chassis on the top, and they come down through. Struts need to be replaced when any of its components wear out - no different than an oil filter, brakes, or spark plugs. Much like your brakes and spark plugs, struts are in continual use as you drive, bearing the entire weight of your vehicle, which leads to components wearing out over time. The shock absorber component does its work by using the force of a bumpy road to push a fluid from an internal chamber, through an orifice, and into another chamber. It does this as its internal piston is travelling up and down, and so it requires seals to keep the fluid where it is supposed to be while parts are moving all around it. These seals wear out eventually, either by leaking fluid externally, or by leaking internally, allowing too much fluid to pass too easily from one chamber to another, and so reducing the amount of force the shock absorber can use up. The mount component uses a bearing to carry the weight of the vehicle while allowing the wheels to turn. It also uses molded rubber between the strut and the vehicle to further dampen vibrations. If the bearing wears out or the rubber gets old and... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Diagnostic Services? If you're having problems with your computer, you take it to a computer technician, so it's understandable that, if you're having problems with your automobile, you take it to an automobile technician. Today's automobile technicians don't simply "repair" what's wrong, but need to properly "diagnose" the problem beforehand. This is just as true for electronically-controlled systems as it is for "simple" brakes and suspension. Generally, diagnostic services are an in-depth consideration of the electronic controls handling your car's electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. Why are Diagnostic Services Important? It's only reasonable to conclude that, because the modern automobile is such a complicated machine, there are many ways in which it can fail. Noises, performance problems, and fuel economy problems are just a few of the symptoms that the modern technician may need to address on your vehicle. There are a great many car problems that are fairly straightforward to diagnose and repair. A headlight out might simply need a new bulb, or a squeaky belt may need an adjustment. However, with the introduction of electronic systems, some car problems have become more complicated to diagnose and repair. Whereas engine fuel injection and ignition systems used to be electrical or mechanical, their function is now completely electronic. Even so-called "simple" systems, such as power windows and air conditioning, are now electronic. Warning lights or warning messages may be the only indication that you have a problem, and you may or may not... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title How do Brakes work? Cars have brakes on all four wheels that operated using a hydraulic system. There are two different kinds of brakes: disc and drum. On disc brakes, when the brake pedal is pushed, pads with friction material grab the rotor, which rotates with the wheel, to stop the rotation. Drum brakes also rotate with the wheel but, when the brake pedal is pushed, two brake shoes push outward and against the drum to stop the rotation. If your car has anti-lock brakes, a computer is in control of each wheel individually to pump the brakes quickly during a sudden stop to prevent the wheels from locking and the vehicle skidding. The front brakes play a greater part in stopping the car than the rear brakes do because braking throws the weight of the car onto the front wheels. Many cars have disc brakes in the front (which are generally more efficient) and drum brakes in the rear. More than just a disc brake or drum brake, the braking system also includes the brake hose, brake line, brake pad, and brake fluid. Why is Brake Maintenance So Important? Proper maintenance of your vehicle's brakes is essential to your safety when driving. Brake elements wear out, but they do so slowly, so you may not notice they need maintenance repair or replacement until it's too late. Neglecting your braking system can lead to increased repair costs; instead of new brake pads, you may end... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What are Belts & Hoses? Your engine is a machine in motion, converting the explosive energy from gasoline or diesel fuel into reciprocating motion. In turn, the crankshaft converts that reciprocating motion into rotary motion. Nearly everything else in the engine is rotary, such as the camshafts and water pump. Engine accessories, such as the air conditioning compressor and alternator, aren't driven directly by the crankshaft, but by drive belts, sometimes more than one. V-belts used to be more common, but today's engines typically drive everything off one or two multi-V or "serpentine" belts. Additionally, the engine generates a lot of heat. Some heat is good, because it helps to vaporize the fuel faster and oil flows better when warm. On the other hand, excessive heat can be damaging to the engine. To remove this excess heat, the engine cooling system uses a water pump to drive coolant through a network of hoses and radiators. The heater core, a small radiator inside the cabin, provides heat for the passengers. Why are Belts & Hoses Important? Made of nylon-reinforced rubber, hoses are constantly subjected to high temperatures and pressures - from -50 °F to 265 °F and 16 psi, depending on the car. If a hose leaks or bursts, the car could quickly overheat, in some cases catastrophically. Drive belts are also constructed of nylon-reinforced rubber, sometimes with added metals for strength. When the engine is running, these belts are in constant motion, using engine power... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title Reliable Car Batteries & Expert Installation Your vehicle's battery is the heart of its electrical system, providing the power needed to start the engine and keep essential components running. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, which can leave you stranded at the worst possible moment. At Matthews, we offer comprehensive battery testing, expert installation, and top-quality replacement batteries to keep your car running smoothly. How Long Does a Car Battery Last? On average, a car battery lasts between three to five years, but factors like driving habits, weather conditions, and vehicle type can impact its lifespan. Frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, and long periods of inactivity can cause batteries to deteriorate faster. To avoid unexpected breakdowns, it's recommended to have your battery tested annually-ideally when getting your tires rotated or during routine vehicle maintenance. Signs Your Battery Needs to Be Replaced If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's time to have your battery checked at Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers: Slow engine crank - Your car takes longer than usual to start. Battery warning light - Your vehicle's dashboard may signal a battery issue. Low battery fluid levels - A sign of battery wear and potential failure. Swollen or bloated battery case - Often caused by excessive heat. Corrosion or leaks - Battery acid leaks can damage surrounding components. Battery age - If your battery is over three years old, regular testing is essential. Expert Battery Testing & Replacement... AUTO REPAIR & MAINTENANCE Title What is Air Conditioning Service? Most vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems, a complex system of tubes, hoses, and radiators, using a compressor to pump refrigerant through the system and sensors and switches to monitor and control it. Air conditioning service is often suggested in Spring and Fall, right before the seasons they'll be required the most. The typical air conditioning service involves checking system pressures to see they are in the proper range, and looking for an appropriate temperature drop inside the cabin. Using an air conditioning recovery-recharge machine, a technician removes and filters refrigerant from the system, then confirms the system doesn't have any leaks. After recharging the air conditioning system with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor oil, sometimes adding an ultraviolet-sensitive dye, the technician checks to see that the compressor is working properly and system pressures fall within normal tolerances. If there's a problem, air conditioning service may need to go deeper, perhaps identifying the source of a leak or diagnosing an electrical problem. After a thorough diagnosis, your technician may recommend additional air conditioning services, such as air box cleaning, hose or tube replacement, O-ring replacement, or compressor clutch service. A thorough air conditioning service may also address other engine problems, such as drive belt or serpentine belt tension or condition or engine overheating problems. Why is Air Conditioning Service Important? The air conditioning system is essentially a heat pump, pulling heat energy from inside the cabin and... Services Auto Repair & Maintenance Oil Changes We offer a variety of oil, lube, and filter service changes, using only the highest quality Valvoline products, at the most competitive price in town. Fluid Exchanges Keep your engine running smoothly with factory-recommended fluid exchanges, including engine coolant transfusions, radiator flushes and transmission fluid replacement. Air Conditioning Have your vehicle's air conditioner inspected or serviced to be ready for those hot summer days at your local Matthews. Battery Replacement We offer comprehensive battery testing, expert installation, and top-quality replacement batteries to keep your car running smoothly. Belts & Hoses Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your belts and hoses for wear and function and advise you if they require replacement or adjustment. Brake Services Stay safe on the road and make sure your vehicle's brakes are operating at top performance. We offer brake hose, line, pad, and fluid replacements, as well as whole brake system replacements Diagnostic Services We use top-notch diagnostic service equipment and trained technicians to diagnose and provide an in-depth review of the electronic controls handling your car's electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. Shocks & Struts Have your shocks and struts checked, maintained and, if necessary, replaced at Matthews. We install Monroe parts - proven to be superior for handling, safety, and comfort in all road conditions View All Services Air Conditioning Service Air Induction Service Air Filter Replacement Alignments Alternators Ball Joints Battery Replacement Bearings Belts/Hoses Brake Services Cabin Vent Filter Replacement Catalytic Converters Ignition Coils Compressor Service Coolant... Best Tire Brands. Biggest Tire Inventory. Lowest Price Guaranteed. Browse and Buy Tires Online Step 1:Pick a Location Step 2:Browse and Buy Step 3:Make an Appointment Lowest Driveaway Tire Package Price The Lowest DriveAway Tire Package means you get the lowest guaranteed price* and no hidden charges, along with everything else you need for your new tires. Road Hazard Warranty Professional Installation Computer Spin Balance FREE Rotation & Rebalancing FREE TPMS Reset FREE Flat Repair FREE Wheel Alignment Check 30-Day Ride Guarantee   Financing Made Easy At Matthews Tire, we believe everyone deserves reliable transportation and peace of mind. That's why we offer flexible financing options to help you get the tires or auto service you need-without putting your budget on hold. 6 Months Financing* on Purchases of $250 or more with the Goodyear Credit Card Hit the road with confidence using promotional financing through the Goodyear Credit Card - accepted at all Matthews Tire Centers. Enjoy exclusive offers and flexible credit options to keep your vehicle road-ready for future auto needs. Apply Now Account Log In *Subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions apply. See store for details. Goodyear Credit Card Benefits & Advantages No Interest if Paid in Full within 6 Months* on purchases of $250 or more. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 6 months. Accepted at Exxon and Mobil Stations Now use your Goodyear credit card at over 11,500 Exxon and Mobile stations nationwide. Use Card Instantly Fill out a convenient application and, if approved, you can start using your Goodyear Credit Card immediately - in-store or online. Exclusive Offers When you sign up for the Goodyear Credit Card you will enjoy tire and service savings only available to card holders. Nationwide Acceptance Use your Goodyear Credit Card at more than 17,000 Goodyear locations nationwide. Your Auto Go-To The ultimate card for your automotive needs including tires, service, and fuel at Exxon Mobil locations.... Navigate TIRES SERVICE Tire Specials Get up to $230 back on a set of 4 select Goodyear tires with the Goodyear Credit Card. By online or mail-in rebate and paid by prepaid card or virtual card. Offer ends 06/30/26. † Download Rebate Form Offer Details Get up to $190 back on a set of 4 select Cooper tires with the Goodyear Credit Card. By online or mail-in rebate and paid by prepaid card or virtual card. Offer ends 06/30/26. † Download Rebate Form Offer Details Get a $110 Continental Tire Prepaid Mastercard with the purchase of set of 4 Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 tires. Offer end 5/31/26. Download Rebate Form Offer Details Receive $80 back on 4 new Michelin passenger or light truck tires. Offer ends 5/23/26. Download Rebate Form Offer Details Receive $80 back on 4 new BFGoodrich passenger or light truck tires. Offer ends 5/23/26. Download Rebate Form Offer Details Service Specials Save Up to $30 Off Lube, Oil & Filter Change. Instant $10 off Any LOF*. PLUS, up to $20 Valvoline Perks Loyalty Program Savings**. Use Code: MAYVPERK-10 Download Rebate Form Offer Details FREE TIRE ROTATION with any Lube, Oil & Filter Change. Use Code: MAY-ROTATE Offer Details EXPERT TIRE & AUTO SERVICE Search for Tires Schedule Service The Matthew's Difference Bring your car to the experts you can trust at Matthews Tire. From high-quality tires, rotations and alignments to same-day oil changes, brake replacements and more, we're here to keep you rolling-no excuses guaranteed. Stop in today to experience our impeccable service and nationwide product warranties! Complete Automotive Services Along with offering a full selection of quality tire brands, Matthews provides comprehensive automotive services, from routine maintenance to complex diagnostics and engine repairs. Largest Tire Inventory Matthews carries all major tire brands to give you the best options for performance, value, and safety. Upgraded Convenience for Every Driver Book your service or tire appointment online and get a free digital report sent straight to your phone, helping you understand your car's condition with confidence. Satisfied Customers Matthews Tire Express provides expert service and top tire brands. With a 4. 8-star customer rating, we're dedicated to quality and your confidence on the road. Convenient Locations Matthews proudly serves Northeast Wisconsin with convenient locations. With a shop near you, expert tire and auto service is just a call or click away. Trusted, Certified ASE Technicians Whatever you drive and whatever your car needs, trust Matthews' expert ASE‑certified technicians to get the job done right! Shop Tires Online Step 1:Pick a Location Step 2:Browse and Buy Step 3:Make an Appointment Our Satisfied Customers Don't just take our word for it: with a 4. 8-star customer rating, we're dedicated to quality... Drive Your Future with Matthews At Matthews, we invest in your future with personalized career development, expert training, and a benefits package that supports your success in the automotive industry. View Openings & Apply Now Why Join Matthews Tire? I've been proud to build my career with Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers for nearly 12 years. I began my journey as a Retail Sales Manager, where I learned the importance of delivering excellent service and experienced firsthand what it means to be a part of the Dobbs family of associates. After being promoted to Store Manager, I had the privilege of running four different locations over eight years, each presenting new challenges and opportunities to grow. Today, I serve as a District Leader overseeing 15 stores. One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been learning from talented peers and mentors around me and now being able to share that knowledge with our associates. Dobbs has provided me with the chance to develop as a leader while making a meaningful impact on both our people and our customers. Corey Purtle, District Leader I began my journey at Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers in January 1987 as a retail operations clerk for the Arnold and Oakville stores. At that time, all paperwork was done manually without computers. Over the years, I transitioned to the parts department at the High Ridge location, taking on roles such as parts delivery driver, warehouse associate, warehouse manager, and currently, warehouse office clerk. What... Our Locations A Family of Brands Delivering Trusted Service Across the Midwest View Locations View Locations View Locations View Locations ## Store Locator