Used Car Vehicle Service & Maintenance Tips
Your Go-To Guide for Used Car Care and Maintenance Ideas
Vermont DMV Ends Time Extension Waivers for State Inspections — What Drivers Need to Know
A major change to Vermont State Inspection rules is coming in 2026, and it may affect how quickly your vehicle needs repairs after a failed inspection. Learn what's changing, what assistance options still exist, and how choosing the right inspection station can help you avoid surprises…..
February 02, 2026
Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter Driving in Vermont
Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can push your vehicle to its limits. Learn how to prepare your car, truck, or SUV for Vermont winter driving with practical tips, real-world insights, and simple steps that help prevent breakdowns when the weather turns harsh. This post covers the most.....
January 26, 2026
How to Find the Best Tire Prices Without Sacrificing Safety
If you've searched for cheap tires for sale, tire sales, or the best tire prices near you, you've probably discovered one thing quickly-pricing alone doesn't tell the full story. At Central Vermont Auto Mart in Montpelier, we help drivers find affordable tires that make sense for your driving.....
December 21, 2025
DIY Lubrication Tips: Keeping Your Car’s Doors, Locks & Hinges Moving Smoothly in VT
Most drivers never think about lubricating their car doors, hinges, or locks-until something freezes, squeaks, or refuses to open. But here in Vermont, especially around Montpelier, Barre, Berlin, Northfield, and Williamstown, road salt, moisture, and freezing temperatures take a toll on.....
November 17, 2025
7 Common Vehicle Maintenance Myths That Could Be Costing Vermont Drivers Money
Car maintenance is expensive enough without following bad advice. Unfortunately, some long-standing "rules of thumb" actually cause drivers around Barre and Montpelier to spend more money-or possibly risk voiding their warranty by not taking some simple steps. Here are some of.....
September 13, 2025
Ceramic vs. Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: Choosing the Right Brakes in Montpelier, Vermont
Driving in Montpelier and across Vermont's winding back roads puts unique stress on your vehicle's braking system. Moisture, humidity, salt-treated winter roads, and infrequent daily driving can all contribute to rust buildup on brake pads and rotors, often leading to squeaking, grinding.....
August 24, 2025
Brake Maintenance in Vermont | Pads, Rotors, and Fluid Service
Vermont's unique weather and challenging roads mean your vehicle's brakes need extra attention. At Central Vermont Auto Mart, we help Montpelier and Barre drivers stay safe with expert brake care. Here's what you need to know about keeping your brakes in top condition! Driving in Vermont.....
July 25, 2025
Why Won’t My Car’s A/C Work? Top 3 Reasons & Local AC Repairs in Barre–Montpelier VT
Top 3 Reasons We See Why Your Vehicle's A/C Won't Work - 1. Low or Leaking Refrigerant (Freon). This is the #1 most common A/C problem. Your system relies on refrigerant (often called Freon, with different formulations that should not be mixed) to create cool air. Over time, small.....
June 19, 2025
Summer Road Trip Ready? Why a Vehicle Inspection Matters Before You Travel
Summer in Vermont is made for adventures - whether you're cruising through the Green Mountains, heading to the beach, or even packing up for a cross-country trip. But before you hit the road, let's make sure your car is ready for every mile of adventures you had planned, not spending time broke down on.....
June 05, 2025
Timing Belts vs. Timing Chains: What Central Vermont Drivers Should Know
When it comes to your engine's health, the timing system is a big deal. It's like the heartbeat of your car - quietly keeping everything moving in sync. But here's a question we hear all the time: "Do I have a timing belt or a timing chain? And what's the difference? Let's break it down and help.....
May 05, 2025
Why Suspension Issues Deserve Immediate Attention
Your suspension system does more than just smooth out bumps-it helps keep your tires in contact with the road, ensuring control when turning, braking, or swerving. Worn shocks, struts, or bushings can reduce your stopping power, throw off your steering, and even lead to.....
April 1, 2025
Fast & Reliable Auto Service Appointments – Barre & Montpelier, VT
When your car needs maintenance or repairs, waiting days-or even weeks-for an appointment isn't ideal. Unfortunately, long wait times have become the norm at many dealerships across the country. According to J.D. Power's 2024 Customer Service Index (CSI) Study, owners.....
March 17, 2025
Why Replacing Your Car’s Filters is Essential for Performance and Clean Air
Keeping up with your car's maintenance isn't just about oil changes and tire rotations. Filters can play a critical role in keeping your vehicle running efficiently and ensuring the air you breathe inside the cabin is clean. From engine performance to fuel efficiency and air quality, replacing filters .....
March 11, 2025
How to Keep Your Electric Vehicle in Top Shape
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as more drivers embrace their eco-friendly benefits, lower operating costs, and advanced technology. But like any vehicle, an EV needs proper care and maintenance to deliver optimal performance over the years. The good news? Maintaining an.....
January 13, 2025
Why Does My Tire Pressure Light Come on in the Cold
Your
vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) plays a vital role in ensuring
safety and optimal performance. This system alerts you when your tire pressure
drops below a safe level. But why does the TPMS light often come on during
colder winter
temperatures? What you need.....
December 21,
2024
Understanding the Differences in Types and Colors of Antifreeze
A Comprehensive
Guide
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle,
antifreeze plays a crucial role in ensuring that your engine stays in peak
condition regardless of the weather. From regulating temperature to preventing
corrosion, antifreeze is an important part of .....
December 21,
2024
Top 3 Reasons Your Car Battery Might Need to Be Replaced
If your vehicle is having trouble starting, or if you've noticed other electrical issues, it might be time to consider replacing your car battery. Your battery plays a crucial role in keeping your car running smoothly, and when it starts to fail, you can find yourself stranded at the most inconvenient .....
Fall 2024
All-Season Tires vs Winter Tires in Vermont - Key Diffrences Explained
The Key Differences Between All-Season Tires and Winter Tires. When it comes to keeping your car safe on the road, choosing the right tires for the season is critical. Many drivers opt for all-season tires due to their versatility, but are they really the best option for winter driving? To help you .....
Fall 2024
The Disappearing Oil Dipstick | What You Need to Know
As technology advances, many aspects of our daily lives are changing, and the automotive industry is no exception. One noticeable change for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike is the disappearance of the traditional oil dipstick from some modern vehicles. This shift has raised .....
Spring 2024
What Do Those Brake Noises from My Vehicle Mean?
Brakes are the unsung heroes of vehicle safety, providing the crucial ability to slow down and stop when needed. However, when they start making noises, it's often a sign that something might be amiss. Ignoring these sounds could lead to potentially dangerous situations on the road, some of .....
Spring 2024
Why Using the Correct Viscosity Motor Oil Matters for Your Vehicle
Choosing the right viscosity motor oil is crucial for the health and longevity of your engine. Viscosity refers to the oil's resistance to flow, and it directly impacts how well your engine is lubricated, protected, and performs under various conditions. Your vehicle manufacture's engineers will choose the proper .....
Winter 2023-2024
Your Vehicle's Check Engine Light Came On, Now What?
So, you're driving along, enjoying the tunes, when suddenly, the check engine light pops up on your dashboard. Cue the panic, right? Well, don't hit the panic button just yet! Let's break down what this warning light is all about. Think of the check engine light as your car's health, with an icon indicating .....
Winter 2023-2024
Navigating Winter Roads in Vermont. Studded Snow Tires or Not
Navigating Winter Roads: Studded Snow Tires vs. Regular Winter Tires. As winter's icy grip tightens its hold on our roads, the age-old debate resurfaces: Are studded snow tires or regular winter tires the better choice for tackling snowy and icy conditions? Let's dive into the details and help you.....
Winter 2023-2024
Vermont State Vehicle Inspections (VSI) | What You Need to Know
If you own a vehicle in the Green Mountain State, you probably know that annual state inspections are required. Every year, all vehicles registered in Vermont need to go through a state inspection. This isn't just a quick look under the hood-it's a thorough check to ensure your vehicle is.....
Winter 2023-2024
