August 8- 2025

Choosing the Right Passenger Truck Tire: HT, AT, MT & Hybrid Styles

Not all truck tires are created equal. Whether you’re cruising the highway, exploring off-road trails, or tackling muddy worksites, the right tire makes all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of the four main styles — with current examples from Cooper, Goodyear, Sailun, and Kelly that we carry.

1. Highway Terrain (HT) Tires

Best for: Smooth highway driving, commuting, and light hauling.

HT tires deliver quiet comfort, excellent tread life, and fuel efficiency.

Cooper – Endeavour Plus: All-season performance with a focus on stability and long wear.
Goodyear – Wrangler Fortitude HT, Wrangler Steadfast HT, Wrangler Workhorse HT: Modern highway-ready designs.
Sailun – Terramax HLT: Comfortable ride and dependable handling.
Kelly – Edge HT: Durable and affordable highway performance.

2. All-Terrain (AT) Tires

Best for: Drivers who split time between pavement and off-road.

AT tires combine traction for dirt, gravel, and snow with solid on-road manners.

Cooper – Discoverer Road+Trail AT: Versatile grip in all seasons.
Goodyear – Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar, Wrangler Territory AT, Wrangler Workhorse AT, Wrangler DuraTrac RT.
Sailun – Terramax A/T 2: Balanced traction for daily driving and weekend adventures.
Kelly – Safari AT: Rugged tread with good road comfort.

3. Mud-Terrain (MT) Tires

Best for: Serious off-road use, mud, and rocky conditions.

MT tires have aggressive tread for maximum bite in tough terrain.

Cooper – Discoverer S/T Maxx: Heavy-duty toughness with cut- and chip-resistant compound.
Goodyear – Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar, Wrangler Territory MT, Wrangler Enforcer MT.
Sailun – Terramax M/T: Affordable mud tire with deep lugs for extreme traction.

4. Hybrid AT/MT Tires (R/T)

Best for: More off-road capability than an AT with less noise than an MT.

Hybrids are perfect for work trucks, overlanding, and mixed-use driving.

Cooper – Discoverer Rugged Trek: Bold styling and all-weather capability.
Goodyear – Wrangler DuraTrac RT: Winter-rated with aggressive tread.
Sailun – Terramax R/T: Aggressive sidewall with balanced on-road handling.

Find Your Perfect Tire

No matter your needs — from smooth highway miles to rugged backcountry trails — we’ve got the right tire and the know-how to install it right.

Mark Your Calendar – August 22!

We’ll have a booth set up outside Cooper’s Auto Services for the Touch a Truck and Kars on King event in downtown Oshawa. Stop by to see these tires up close, talk with our team, and check out our display of services.

-Charles Cooper

August 1- 2025

One of the most common concerns drivers have as their vehicles get older is declining fuel efficiency. It’s a fair concern — as vehicles age, components wear down, systems become less efficient, and small problems begin to affect overall performance. But the good news is this: with the right maintenance strategy and some mindful habits behind the wheel, you can help your vehicle maintain respectable fuel economy well into its later years.

At Cooper’s Auto Services, we’ve been helping drivers in Oshawa since 1946, and we’ve seen firsthand how smart maintenance can keep older vehicles running efficiently and reliably. This week, we’re sharing practical advice on how to keep your fuel mileage in check as your vehicle ages.

Regular Maintenance Makes the Biggest Difference

Fuel economy is directly tied to the health of your engine and drivetrain. Sticking to a proper maintenance schedule is the most effective way to preserve your vehicle’s efficiency. Here are some of the most important services to stay on top of:

1. Engine Oil and Filter Changes

Old or dirty engine oil causes internal friction and reduces engine performance. Regular oil changes, using the manufacturer-recommended viscosity, help your engine run smoother and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.

2. Air Filter Replacement

The air filter ensures your engine breathes clean air. As it becomes clogged with dirt and debris, airflow is restricted, and your engine may compensate by burning more fuel. Replacing your air filter at the recommended interval restores proper air intake and improves mileage.

3. Spark Plug and Ignition System Checks

Faulty or worn spark plugs can cause misfires and poor combustion, which leads to wasted fuel. If your vehicle hesitates during acceleration or runs rough, it may be time to replace the plugs or inspect the ignition coils.

4. Tire Pressure and Alignment

Tires that are underinflated or misaligned create unnecessary rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Checking tire pressures monthly and ensuring your wheels are properly aligned can improve both fuel economy and safety.

5. Fuel and Induction System Cleaning

Over time, carbon deposits can build up in your fuel injectors and intake system, reducing efficiency. Periodic cleaning of the fuel system can restore fuel flow and improve combustion.

Watch for Mechanical Problems That Affect Efficiency

Beyond basic maintenance, aging vehicles are more likely to develop mechanical problems that drag down fuel economy. Some of the most common culprits include:

1. Oxygen (O2) Sensors and Mass Airflow (MAF) Sensors

These sensors provide critical feedback to your engine computer. If they fail or become inaccurate, the fuel-air mixture can become too rich or too lean, resulting in poor mileage and potential long-term engine damage.

2. Fuel Injectors and Fuel Pump

Dirty or leaking fuel injectors can disrupt proper atomization of fuel, leading to inefficient combustion. Similarly, a weak or failing fuel pump may not deliver the correct fuel pressure for optimal engine performance.

3. Brakes and Wheel Bearings

Dragging brakes or worn wheel bearings increase rolling resistance, much like driving with the parking brake partially on. These issues often go unnoticed until a routine inspection reveals the source of poor fuel economy or excessive wear.

4. Exhaust System Problems

Leaks or restrictions in the exhaust system, particularly around the catalytic converter, can cause the engine to operate inefficiently. If your vehicle seems sluggish or noisy, it’s worth having the exhaust inspected.

Your Driving Habits Also Play a Role

Even with a perfectly maintained vehicle, how you drive has a direct impact on fuel efficiency. Some small adjustments to your habits can pay off at the pump:

Accelerate smoothly instead of flooring the gas pedal
Anticipate traffic flow to reduce unnecessary braking and accelerating
Avoid excessive idling whenever possible
Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle, especially roof racks or cargo boxes
Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed

These changes may seem minor, but over time they can significantly improve fuel economy — especially in older vehicles that don’t have modern fuel-saving technologies.

July 25th- 2025

The Value of Routine Inspections: Catching Problems Before They Grow

At Cooper’s Auto Services, we’ve seen time and time again how early detection during routine maintenance can save our customers from major repairs down the road. That’s why every oil change or scheduled service includes a thorough inspection of your vehicle—because the small things we catch now can prevent big headaches later.

Take, for example, a recent case with a Dodge Caravan that came in with a simple ABS light on the dash. At first glance, it didn’t seem urgent—the van was still driving, and braking felt normal. But a quick inspection during its oil change revealed that both rear wheel bearings were worn and triggering the ABS sensors. On closer look, the rear calipers were also seizing up, leading to uneven pad wear and heat buildup.

What could’ve been just a sensor issue turned into a full rear brake job: two new wheel bearings, calipers, rotors, and pads. Had the problem been identified sooner, replacing one or two components might have done the trick. Instead, the repair was significantly higher than it needed to be—all because the issue was allowed to snowball.

This is exactly why we stress the importance of routine inspections. We check:

Tire wear and pressures
Brake condition
Suspension play and components
Fluid levels and condition
Exhaust system
Battery terminals and voltage
Lights, wipers, and safety systems

Our goal is to give you a heads-up—not a surprise. When you stay on top of maintenance, you extend the life of your vehicle, improve safety, and save money in the long run.

So next time you’re in for an oil change, remember—it’s more than just a fluid swap. It’s a full vehicle health check from bumper to bumper.

- Charles Cooper

July 18- 2025

Summer is in full swing, and that means road trips, camping weekends, and hauling gear for those big backyard or cottage projects. We want to make sure your vehicles and trailers are ready for the season. Here are some practical summer maintenance tips to keep you safe and rolling all season long.

Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips
1. Check Your Cooling System
Summer heat puts extra demand on your engine’s cooling system. Make sure your coolant level is full and the condition of the fluid is clean. If it hasn’t been flushed in a few years, now is a good time. Also, inspect your radiator, hoses, and fans for leaks or wear.
2. Inspect A/C Performance
A properly working air conditioning system makes a huge difference on long drives. If it’s not blowing cold, bring it in — it might just need a recharge, or it could be a sign of a leak or failing component.
3. Battery & Charging System
High temps can be hard on batteries. Check for corrosion on terminals, and have the battery tested if it’s more than 3 years old. Weak batteries tend to give out in hot weather when you need them most.
4. Tire Pressure & Condition
Tire blowouts are more common in summer due to under-inflated or worn tires and hot pavement. Check pressures regularly and inspect tread depth. Don’t forget your spare!
5. Windshield Wipers & Fluid
Summer bugs and sudden rainstorms make wiper blades essential. Replace streaky or worn-out blades, and top off washer fluid.
6. Oil & Filter Changes
Regular oil changes keep your engine running smoothly — especially when towing or driving in high temps. If you’re overdue, book in before your next road trip.

Summer Trailer & Camper Maintenance Tips

Whether you’re hauling a camper, boat, or utility trailer, don’t overlook trailer maintenance — it’s just as important as your tow vehicle.

1. Inspect Tires & Bearings
Trailer tires often age out before they wear out. Look for cracking or bulging on the sidewalls. Also, grease or repack wheel bearings annually to avoid failure on the highway.
2. Check Lights & Wiring
Trailer lights are critical for safety. Make sure your brake, signal, and running lights are working properly. Corrosion or bad grounds are common issues — especially if your trailer’s been stored outside.
3. Brakes & Brake Controllers
If your trailer has brakes, test them regularly. Trailer brake controllers should be adjusted properly for safe stopping — especially with heavier loads.
4. Hitch & Safety Chains
Check that your hitch is tight and properly rated for your load. Safety chains should cross under the tongue and have enough slack for turning — but not so much that they drag.
5. Camper Systems Check
If you’ve got a travel trailer or RV, do a full systems check — water pump, propane lines, electrical outlets, and appliances. Test your battery, inspect for roof leaks, and sanitize your water tanks.
6. Registration & Insurance
Lastly, double check that your trailer registration is up to date and that your insurance covers your intended use, especially if you’re crossing provincial borders.

Whether you’re heading out on a summer adventure or just hauling materials for a backyard reno, we’re here to help keep your vehicle and trailer road-ready.

Need a pre-trip inspection or a quick checkup? Give us a call at 905-723-9632 or book online anytime at http://www.coopersautoservices.com

Stay safe, stay cool —
Charles Cooper
Cooper’s Auto Services – Since 1946

July 12- 2025

Back in Action After a Week Off!

We’re back in full swing at Cooper’s Auto Services after a well-needed break, and it didn’t take long for the bays to fill up. We want to thank everyone for their patience while waiting on repairs—we truly appreciate your understanding and continued support.

One highlight this week was a valve body replacement on a 2021 Chevy Silverado. The truck came in with no reverse and stuck in 3rd gear. After a thorough diagnosis, we traced the issue to incorrect check balls in the valve body. The part had been on backorder, but it finally arrived. We installed the new valve body along with a fresh filter, pan gasket, and Dexron ULV fluid. After that, we completed a reprogramming session using GM’s SPS2 Techline Connect. The Silverado was back on the road just in time for the weekend.

Other repairs this week included A/C compressors, cooling fans, wheel bearings, and tire replacements across all makes and models.

We’re rolling strong through the summer and ready to help with whatever your vehicle needs. Thanks for riding with us!

— Charles Cooper

June 27- 2025

This Week at Cooper’s Auto Services – A/C Repairs, Quality Concerns, and Big News

Another week, another round of A/C repairs! We’ve been hard at work fixing air conditioning issues on numerous vehicles—and a trend is starting to emerge. Many of these failures are happening on cars just 4 to 8 years old. That’s a concerning sign for the quality of modern vehicles and something both owners and the industry should be paying close attention to.

A/C repairs today are no small feat. These jobs demand a wide range of skills: HVAC knowledge, electrical diagnostics, IT systems, and good old-fashioned mechanical expertise. At Cooper’s, we take pride in handling these complex systems with precision and care.

On a brighter note—our online appointment scheduler is now live! You can now request a preferred time slot, even after hours. Once submitted, we’ll confirm your appointment by phone or email. It’s a big step forward in making service more convenient and communication smoother.

Heads up—we’ll be closed from June 30 to July 4 for a well-earned break. We’ll be back and ready to go on July 7.

Thanks again for trusting us with your vehicles!

— Charles Cooper

Cooper’s Auto Services

June 18- 2025

Summer Rush at Cooper’s Auto Services – Book Online Anytime!

It’s a busy time of year in the auto repair world, and we’re moving full throttle here at Cooper’s Auto Services. From pushrod, axle seal, and exhaust manifold repairs on a 2017 GMC Sierra to replacing a rear evaporator core on a Chrysler Town and Country, our days have been packed with all types of repairs.

We continue to provide top-tier brake jobs, wheel alignments, and suspension work—and we’re proud to service all makes and models of vehicles, from daily drivers to work trucks.

To keep up with demand and better serve our customers, we’re rolling out an online appointment booking system. This tool will let you book after hours, share details about your vehicle issues, and even help us build a file on your car’s needs.

We operate in half-day service cycles for most routine work, and our new scheduler will reflect this, making your visit smoother and more predictable.

Stay safe this season—and if your vehicle needs attention, you can now reach us 24/7 online!

-Charles

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