Used Car Vehicle Service & Maintenance Tips

Your Go-To Guide for Used Car Care and Maintenance Ideas

Brake Maintenance in Vermont | Pads, Rotors, and Fluid Service

 Brake maintenance service at Central Vermont Auto Mart 
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? Get a Quick Vehicle Inspection – Free with Your July Service!

 Family packing their car for a summer road trip with bikes and roof box. 
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.....

June 05, 2025


Timing Belts vs. Timing Chains: What Central Vermont Drivers Should Know

  
Close-up image showing a rubber timing belt next to a metal timing chain, labeled for comparison

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

 Mechanic inspecting cars in Barre Montpellier area for shock, strut and suspension issues. 
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

Vehicle Maintenance Logo 
Happy customer finding a quick easy service appointment for his car at Central Vermont Auto Mart in Montpelier, Vermont.  
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

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Why Replacing Your Car’s Filters is Essential for Performance and Clean Air

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Customer getting their car air filter replaced at Central Vermont Auto Mart. 
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

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How to Keep Your Electric Vehicle in Top Shape


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Central Vermont Auto Mart, your source for Electric Vehicle Maintenance in Montpelier Vermont. 
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. 

January 13, 2025

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Why Does My Tire Pressure Light Come on in the Cold

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Why does my tire pressure warning light (TPMS) come on when it is
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?  

December 21, 2024

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Understanding the Differences in Types and Colors of Antifreeze

Vehicle Maintenance Logo A customer getting his coolant system serviced at Central Vermont
Auto Mart 
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 .....

December 21, 2024

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Top 3 Reasons Your Car Battery Might Need to Be Replaced

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Customer needing a new battery in Barre Montpelier Vermont 
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

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All-Season Tires vs Winter Tires in Vermont - Key Diffrences Explained

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Winter Tires for sale in Montpelier Vermont 
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

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The Disappearing Oil Dipstick | What You Need to Know

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Central Vermont Auto Mart explains why oil dip sticks disappearing from today's cars. 
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

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What Do Those Brake Noises from My Vehicle Mean?

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Customers should have vehicle brake noises addressed by a professional technician at Central Vermont Auto Mart 
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 .....

Spring 2024

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Why Using the Correct Viscosity Motor Oil Matters for Your Vehicle

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Let the techs at Central Vermont Auto Mart help you use the correct oil for your car. 
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 .....

Winter 2023-2024

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Your Vehicle's Check Engine Light Came On, Now What?

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Your check engine light is on, let the service team at Central Vermont Auto Mart in Montpelier, Vermont help. 
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 .....

Winter 2023-2024

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Navigating Winter Roads in Vermont. Studded Snow Tires or Not

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Deciding which type of tire is best, studded snows or non-studded snows in Vermont? 
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.....

Winter 2023-2024

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Vermont State Vehicle Inspections (VSI) | What You Need to Know

Vehicle Maintenance Logo Sample of a Vermont State Inspection VSI 
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 .....

Winter 2023-2024

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