Hansen CARS
128 Sumner Ave. Ames, Iowa 50010 | (515) 232-4241

General / Misc

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Steamed Up (Vapor Coming Out of Vents)

Sometimes you may notice a little steam or vapor coming out of your vehicle's vents when running the air conditioning or heater.  Is this something about which you need to worry? The answer is i...
Published on: May 10, 2026

The Foggiest Idea (Fogged Windows in Cold Weather)

In cold weather, you may notice your windows fogging up. Then you can't see where you're going, and suddenly you and those around you are in danger. So, what causes your windows to fog up in cold weat...
Published on: Mar 22, 2026

Prevent Costly Repairs

You’ve probably seen auto parts delivery trucks in Ames making their rounds. Every part has a story behind it. Unfortunately, some of the stories are tales of repairs that could have been preven...
Published on: Nov 30, 2025

The Pros of Pros (Let Us Do It For You)

Modern vehicles usually have four wheels, a steering wheel, and an engine, just as they have for decades.  But an awful lot has changed since the days of carburetors and drum brakes.  The ad...
Published on: Nov 16, 2025

Cold Facts about Heaters

Brrrr.  It's cold outside.  And if your vehicle's heater isn't working, then it's cold inside too.  No fun – and potentially dangerous: heat is needed to defrost your windshield.&...
Published on: May 11, 2025

Auto Repair Ethics in Ames

We’re going to be talking about the ethics of automotive repair.  Unfortunately, every profession has some bad actors that hurt the reputation of everyone else.  In the automotive worl...
Published on: Nov 17, 2024

Will Proper Auto Maintenance at Hansen CARS Really Save Gas?

{{ image('MzAy') }} Have you ever thought about all the little things we do to keep our lives running smoothly - like vacuuming? It makes a room feel fresher and more comfortable. We may not consider...
Published on: Sep 15, 2024

The 20.9 Percent Factor (Oxygen Sensor)

Do you know what gas makes up 20.9% of the air we breathe? It's oxygen.   Oxygen is an important part of the combustion process that enables your engine to make power.  The amount of ox...
Published on: May 26, 2024