QuestionThank you soooo much for replying so quickly! I found the fuel filter and will definitely get the timing belt replaced! One other question I had is that I have been going through tires like CRAZY, I know I drive a lot, but the weird thing is that the front tires seem to only be wearing down on the outer sides, the metal threads show through, but the actual tread down the middle of the tire is perfectly fine. The steering wheel is also shaking when I get up to higher speeds (over 50mph) I believe this is an alignment problem, I think that it may have started when I got new tires at Walmart one time and they weren't balanced right which made the car shake, since then I have replaced the tires at least twice but have not had an alignment done. Do you think if I had an alignment done it would fix the problem? Also, would I need all 4 tires aligned? Or just the thrust alignment?(whatever that is) In reference to the tire issue, I have replaced both tie rod ends, and also a part of the shock/strut (inside the plate on the top, don't know what its called!!) I would appreciate any advice you have to give. Thanks for all your time and expertise, repairing cars can be very frustrating especially when you don't know anything about them, so having someone like you is VERY helpful!Thanks again and continue on helping others, it will come back to you.
AnswerBeth,
Normally I don't answer more than a question or two per day, but you got me worried when you described your tires. The metal threads you are seeing is the steel belt inside the tire. And if you can see that, literally, your life could be in danger if you continue to drive on those tires.
Your problem is indeed an alignment. And as attractive as the cheap tires at WalMart may seem, I would highly recommend you have a professional tire shop replace your tires and inspect your suspension parts. You mentioned you already had the tie-rods replaced, but you should also have the mechanic check the ball joints and other various suspension parts. If you were to get an alignment, and your ball joints were bad, it would throw off your alignment again almost immediately.
Shops like Firestone, Goodyear, or a Sears Auto Center all specialize in tires replacement and alignments. You can also check your YellowPages for local tire shops in your area, but definitely find a professional tire service area. Give them a call and ask if their shop offers a 4-wheel laser alignment and computerized balancing. This will ensure you're getting it done correctly.
You should definitely ask for the 4-wheel alignment, you'll want each tire to be computerized balanced, and you should get all 4 tires replaced. It won't be cheap, but with new tires, a proper alignment and balance, your tires will last as long as their warranty suggests. Many all-season tires offer a 40k-55k mile warranty, so stick with a high warranty tire since you do so much driving. Be absolutely sure you rotate your tires as regularly as your owners manual suggests; if not more often! Also, check your tire pressure every time you fill up your tank (or at least every couple weeks). Spend a few extra dollars on a nice tire pressure gauge (you can get this at Wal-Mart ;-)), and get familiar with checking your tire pressure. Your proper tire pressure will be listed on the inner driverside doorcell or in your owners manual; usually 32 psi for the front and 29 psi for the rear. Not only will your tires last a long time, but your gas mileage will increase, and most importantly, you'll be safe!
Good luck!
