Drivers want to feel confident that they are protected by a good solid warranty but what's the major differences between the powertrain and bumper-to-bumper? Check out the major differences below.

Powertrain covers special component that brings power to the wheels such as engine, transmission, and differentials. This would also include the driveshaft as well as velocity joints. Components that wear out aren't included in fluids, battery, and clutch for manual transmission. Bumper-to-bumper warranty usually covers things such as air-conditioning, audio, and electronics...

Problems with a vehicle's exhaust can develop gradually over time or seem to happen suddenly, depending on the nature of the failure. Exhaust pipes and mufflers corrode over time and can get louder as small holes develop, or your muffler can fall off and make your car sound like it's on a racetrack.

Usually, a car owner can detect exhaust system failures before they happen by paying attention for a few telltale signs. The most obvious sign is increased noise from your exhaust system, which can include hissing, popping, and engine noise. You'll also notice a loss…

There has never been a better time than right now to visit Bert Smith BMW in Saint Petersburg for your tire needs. Did you know that the thickness of your tire's tread has a direct impact on how your car handles on the road? If you were not aware of that then perhaps it is time for you to come by and talk to the professionals at our service center that can educate you on the proper thickness for tire tread and what improper thicknesses can do to the safety and performance of your vehicle.

​Don't you owe…

To say the brakes on a car are critically important for safely operating a vehicle would be an understatement. Brake fluid plays a large role in how these parts work. So, what exactly is brake fluid?

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid designed to create the necessary pressure to stop a car. Specifically, brake fluid pressure causes the brake rotors to press on the brake pads which, in turn, slow and stop the wheels. Brake fluid is found inside the brake lines. The fluid runs through those lines once the brake pedals are pressed.

Brake fluid can suffer from contamination…

The windshield is one of the fundamental safety precautions that drivers should ensure its well maintained. That involves keeping it clean to enhance visibility when driving. Water is one of the standard liquids used but its better with washer fluid.

The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road because of a broken belt or leaking hose. This is especially true when simple timely maintenance could have saved you the trouble and expense. Your first step is to have an automotive professional can do a visual inspection.

Motor oils are supposed to keep your engine as clean and well maintained as possible. This gives you peace of mind when driving as you won’t have to worry about your car breaking down. However, there are motor oils that have better performance than others. For instance, the synthetic blend motor oils perform better than conventional oils. In addition, synthetic blend motor oils are considerate on price and performance to you as a driver.

There are a couple of reasons why you should consider using synthetic blend motor oil. One of the common reasons is because your...

If it seems like you're changing your oil all the time, Bert Smith BMW in Saint Petersburg may have great news for you. Due to developments over the last couple of decades, cars are now able to change their oil at around 7,500 miles. If you're uncertain as to how often you should change the oil, you can always give us a call, or check your owner’s manual. 

We break down what gap insurance is & what you need to know when in a dealer’s office: https://t.co/Ct6pOeabvo

— Edmunds (@edmunds) February 2, 2017

Technically, Gap means guaranteed auto/asset protection. It bridges the gap between what your car insurer pays out in the event of total loss and the amount you owe on your car loan. Your car start depreciated immediately you drive out of the showroom. In the event of total loss, GAP comes to your rescue by armoring the finances you had put on the vehicle.

Move Over laws protects tow truck drivers in all 50 states. Let’s help keep our drivers safe. #SDMO pic.twitter.com/KgZY2p83H8

— AAA (@AAAauto) July 12, 2017

Most motorists have no idea that the Move Over law is on the books in all 50 states. These laws are meant to protect roadside workers from being struck and killed by drivers, but sadly, most drivers have never even heard of these laws. In a national poll that was sponsored by the National Safety Commission, over 70 percent of all drivers in the US never even heard of such a law…