Choosing Between Rear-Wheel and Front-Wheel Drive Vehicles

At Mercedes-Benz of Walnut Creek, we understand that there are many performance differences between rear wheel drive (RWD) and front wheel drive (FWD) cars. We can help you choose the right type of vehicle for your driving needs by answering any of your questions and sharing our knowledge with you.

RWD cars tend to be more durable in rough driving conditions. Most high performance cars are also RWD since the steering and traction are taken care of by different sets of wheels. 

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What is a Powertrain Warranty vs. a Bumper-to-bumper Warranty?

Informed car buyers often get the greatest value out of their cars. Often, warranties are a great way for the driver to get parts that are rated for a certain time frame replaced if they fail before expected. That is why we here at Mercedes-Benz of Walnut Creek want to be sure that you're an informed about the difference between powertrain warranties and bumper to bumper warranties.

First, a powertrain warranty is a warranty, usually for a specific amount of time or number of miles driven, that protects against the failure of just the powertrain of a vehicle. 

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Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe Important Safety Features

Why is the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC coupe considered to be a popular luxury compact? Let's take a close look at some of the safety features in the car to get a better understanding of why.

The all-new GLC 300 is equipped with the Collision Prevention Assist Plus system. This unique safety feature uses a radar to scan the road and detect if slower moving vehicles or stationary objects are on the road ahead. If so, you'll first get an alert, and then the system will assist with braking so you don't have to work the brakes…

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The Mercedes-Benz S560: A Leader in Luxury Sedans

If you're in the luxury sedan market, you're trying to find something that can perform well while looking great. The S560 is a vehicle that has premium components under the hood as well as high-end touches throughout the cabin, making it a popular choice.

On the outside of the Mercedes Benz, you'll find LED lights instead of traditional bulbs. Up front, there are triple-band daytime running lights, and in the back, there are three-segment vertical taillamps. The wheels of the S560 complement the overall appearance. They're 19 inches across and have a multispoke style. 

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Gaskets - What Do They Do?

Gaskets are a small and relatively inexpensive automotive part, yet one that is very important. Do not underestimate the importance of gaskets or of how many there are working inside and underneath your car. Stop at Mercedes-Benz of Walnut Creek if you have any questions or think you may be in need of new gaskets.

Gaskets can be made of rubber, copper or plastic, but they’re most commonly made of durable steel. They need to be durable because their job is to hold things together. Gaskets must also be able to survive through inclement weather and contact with strong…

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Reasons Your Engine May be Overheating

If you are sitting in Walnut Creek traffic and you suddenly notice that your car is starting to overheat, you should know that it isn't only about the fact that you are sitting in traffic, even if the issue is that heat is beating down on your car. If your engine is overheating, it means that you are having problems either with your car's thermostat or there is a leak or problem with the coolant system in your car.

If you don't get this kind of thing fixed, and your car keeps overheating, you can see your…

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The Importance of Muffler Maintenance

Muffler and exhaust maintenance can be an often overlooked aspect of your vehicle's regular check-ups. Many motorists will only have their mechanic or technician inspect their muffler if they see, or more likely hear, some very obvious damage to it. Of course, this is not the best idea for your vehicle's long term health.

Your vehicle's exhaust system exists for two primary reasons. The obvious one is to reduce noise, but the more important one is to reduce your car's emissions. A poorly maintained exhaust system will cause your car to increase the amount of harmful…

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What are the Properties of Synthetic and Conventional Engine Oil?

Everyone knows that it is important to regularly have your vehicle engine oil levels checked and to have the fluid changed every so many miles. But do you know what type of oil that your vehicle requires? Some manufacturers require a certain type of engine oil, while others leave it up to the owner. Regardless, you need to understand the differences in engine oils.

Conventional engine oil is derived directly from crude oil. It provides lubrication for high engine temperatures, remains stable for a long period of time and is generally less expensive than other types of oil. 

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Safety Precautions to Observe When Changing a Flat Tire

Having a tire go flat on the road is a situation many drivers can handle with the right tools and a little work. However, it's important to be safe when you attempt to change a tire while stranded on the road.

It's important to maintain control of your vehicle when you have a flat tire while driving. Pull over and stop your vehicle as soon as it's safe to do so, preferably on level ground somewhere off the road, such as a nearby parking lot. Be sure the car is in park and that the parking brake…

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How Temperature Changes Can Affect Car Batteries

Temperature extremes can have a significant impact on how your car functions. When the weather gets really cold, the battery in your car can lose charge. It can be difficult for your car battery to have enough power to start your engine in extremely cold weather.

If the weather gets really hot, your battery can overheat. While this does not occur frequently, big temperature extremes within a few days can wreak havoc on how your car battery holds a charge. 

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