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If you are planning on hauling heavy cargo or pulling trailers with your vehicle, then you need to know the difference between the maximum payload and towing capacity. Even though these two specs might be somewhat similar, they won't ever be identical. Here is a closer look at how these two numbers are calculated and why they are so important.

Both the towing capacity and maximum payload of your vehicle should be clearly listed in your owner’s manual. 

Along with checking your vehicle's transmission fluid, oil and coolant and other items like hoses, belts, tires and similar components, it is also important to change out the differential fluid on a regular basis. Why is that? Well, the differential fluid can deteriorate or become contaminated over time and cause the differential to not function properly.

The differential is the gearbox that is between the drive wheels of the vehicle. In four-wheel drives, there will be a differential in the front and one in the back of the vehicle. 

When you are ready to wash your vehicle, the tires are probably not at the forefront of important parts that need special attention during the process. However, the tires actually need as much care as the rest of the vehicle, due to the collection of corrosive brake dust that can accumulate on the wheels.

The Perkins Motor Plex team can help. First, pick the correct cleaner for your vehicle, as marked on the cleaner container. For tough jobs, pick a tough but non-caustic cleaner. Use separate brushes for the wheels and the tires and wash the tires before washing the…

Testing the car battery with the voltmeter is easy when you prepare with a few safety tips. Always wear safety eye-wear around the car battery and put on a pair of good heavy-duty gloves. The car ignition and lights have to be turned off to get an accurate reading, too.

The voltmeter has a pair of cables that are color-coded, red for positive and black is negative. The red cable goes on your positive battery side first. Now attach the black cable to the battery negative terminal. 

Taking the time to make your own roadside emergency kit could make all the difference in keeping you safe and getting you back on your way quickly. Keep a small box of tools in the emergency kit. In addition to the tools, a roll of duct tape is one of those things that can be used to make numerous small repairs.

Always keep a flashlight and batteries in your kit because you never know when you might get stranded in the dark and need to flag help or make small repairs. 

Toyota has been making high quality and trustworthy vehicles for many years now, and we have had many customers purchase a vehicle like the Sienna and be thrilled with their new purchase. This model is still around today, with updated features that will make this vehicle a front runner in its class this year. With impressive, comfortable seating options and plenty of cargo space, you will love this vehicle if you are transporting one passenger or seven passengers.

The Ford Fusion delivers when it comes to high-performance features and economy. It also delivers when it comes to the latest technology and connectivity. Let’s take a look at the features that allow you to do more than go from point A to point B.

The newer models of the Ford Fusion feature SYNC 3 that allows you to locate restaurants, navigation, and control your smart phone using voice-activated technology. FordPass helps you find parking, check gas prices, lock, unlock, receive critical vehicle information, and start your vehicle remotely. 

Windshield wiper blades are a key part of your visibility and safety systems. The blades are made of rubber, and they attach to the metal and plastic arms. Those arms are connected to a motor that moves the arms back and forth so that the blades can clean your windshield.

After a few months of exposure to the sun, rubber becomes brittle. The blades break down, no longer cleaning the car's windshield. This problem results in reduced visibility in heavy rain or snow. 

Four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles tend to be among the most popular models for drivers across America. Drivers simply love how they handle in snow, mud and other wet environmental conditions. But unless you maintain that piece of equipment unique to four-wheel drive vehicles known as a transfer case, you won't be able to drive very far.

The transfer case ensures that power is available and split between the front and rear wheel axles. 

We commonly see problems with mufflers and exhausts for all makes and models of vehicles here at the Perkins Motor Plex locations. This is no reflection at all of how well you take care of your vehicle, so don't worry if you notice there is a problem with this area of your car. Just normal, everyday use of your vehicle is all it takes for a small hole or crack to begin in your muffler or exhaust pipe. Depending on the size of the issue, we can sometimes patch it up, but there are also times when the damage…