If your car doesn't turn exactly in the direction that you want it to, you could either be experiencing an oversteer or an understeer. Both of these situations can be dangerous if there other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles nearby. There are many stability features built into some of the models that we have at MINI of Portland to account for steering issues.

During an oversteer, your car will be turning more sharply than expected. This is more likely to happen in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, since the back wheels are where all the power is being delivered. 

There are a lot of myths surrounding motor oil. Some of them used to be true, but others never were. If you're under false impressions, that might impact how you have your oil changed. Here are a couple of myths that you can be sure have been debunked.

Some people believe that if you use synthetic oil that you can never go back to conventional oil. This is simply not true. It is, however, true that high-mileage vehicles can benefit from high-mileage oil, which is often synthetic. Talk to your mechanic about the right oil for your vehicle. 

Here at MINI of Portland, we understand the importance of driving safely in the winter. When the snow and ice set in, it is necessary that you are prepared. Have your vehicle inspected for leaks, worn hoses, and other damages before the snow and ice arrive.

Before you leave, check the road conditions and traffic to ensure that you take the safest route. You should also keep others informed about what route you are taking and when you are planning to arrive. Drive cautiously when you are traveling on the snow. 

When you're driving in the winter months, there are a few things that you can do to provide the proper care for your vehicle. Since the sun sets earlier in the day, you need to examine the lights on your vehicle to ensure that you can clearly see while you're on the road.

Colder weather often strains the battery in a vehicle. One that is weak in the summer could leave you on the side of the road in the winter. Consult with a technician at MINI of Portland to have your battery tested as well as the…

Brake pads are an important automobile part because they apply force and friction to the brake rotors, which are the discs that you can sometimes see behind the tires of certain vehicles. When the brake pads apply pressure and friction to the rotors, it will cause the vehicle to slow and stop. Because your vehicle's wheels rotate very quickly, brake pads will go through extreme stress that leads to regular wear.

Usually, brake pads should be replaced every 50,000 miles, but there are some vehicles that need their brake pads replaced after 25,000 miles. 

The use of bicycles has grown in recent years, and drivers must learn to share the road with a larger number of bicyclists. Bike lanes help, and increased driver awareness will make the roads safer for everyone.

Drivers know that the best way to avoid a collision is to drive safely. Drivers should slow down when possible, and they should always drive below the posted speed limit. Drivers must avoid distractions, and always be alert for people walking nearby, using skateboards, or bicycling. 

There is a lot of planning that goes into a road trip. You have to pack clothes, toiletries, snacks and so much more. One thing you don't want to forget is your motion-sickness remedies. If you are prone to motion sickness like many of us here at MINI of Portland are, then you know how important it is to come prepared on a road trip. Let's take a look at some tips on how you can prevent and treat motion sickness.

Medications can be found over-the-counter that will prevent and treat motion sickness. Many of these drugs contain…

Proper tire pressure is very important for your tires because it makes a difference in the ride you get and how long your tires will last. Even with a warranty on the tires, you may have to replace the tires yourself if they wore out due to improper air pressure. Pay us a visit at [DEALER] and let us check your tires and offer some tips on tire maintenance.

Tire pressure is something that should be monitored regularly. Proper tire pressure is vehicle specific, which means go by what your vehicle owner’s manual says and not what is written…

Your vehicle's braking system has brake fluid that flows through the brake lines. Without brake fluid, you wouldn't be able to stop your vehicle when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. It needs to be drained and changed on a routine basis because it will degrade over time. You can learn more about brake fluid by reading our content below.

There are many kinds of brake fluid, which can make it confusing about which one your vehicle needs, but the two main types are glycol-based and silicone-based. If your vehicle includes ABS, it will probably need a…

Although you might try to avoid driving through Portland near sunrise or sunset, sometimes you just can't help it. Unfortunately, the sun may then be at just the right angle to cause a near-blinding glare. When the sun's rays are aiming for your eyes, a few simple precautions can help you maintain clear vision.