Should I "mix" tire types on my car? Tires of different size designations, constructions, and stages of wear may affect vehicle handling and stability. For best all-around performance, it is recommended that all tires be of the same size, construction (radial,non-radial) and speed rating. If tires of different speed ratings are mounted on a vehicle, the same size, type and speed ratings need to be placed on the same axle, the tires with the lower speed rating will be the determining factor for permissible tire related vehicle speed. Never mix radial and bias-ply tires on the same axle. Get specific information from your Gemini Automotive Care.

What is alignment? A vehicle is said to be properly aligned when all suspension and steering components are sound and when the tire and wheel assemblies are running straight and true. Proper alignment is necessary for even tread wear and precise steering. Uneven front-or rear-tire wear, or changes in your vehicle's handling or steering response (i.e. pulling to one side) can indicate misalignment. Many vehicles today are equipped with rear suspensions that can be adjusted for alignment. Your vehicle may need a "front-end" alignment or a "four-wheel" alignment, depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. The moderate cost of having your vehicle aligned can more than pay for itself in tire mileage, performance and comfort. Gemini Automotive Care provide expert alignment and suspension service.

What should I do if I notice a vibration? Vibration is an indication that your car has a problem that needs attention. The tires, steering system and suspension system should be checked to help determine the possible cause and correction of the vibration. If left unattended, the vibration could cause excessive tire and suspension wear. It could even be dangerous. Gemini Automotive Care offer expert diagnosis and repair.

When buying just two new tires, should they be put on the front or rear? When radial tires are used with bias or bias belted tires on the same car, the radials must always be placed on the rear axle. Never mix radial and bias-ply tires on the same axle. When you select a pair of replacement tires in the same size and construction as those on the car, we recommend you put them on the rear axle. A single new tire should be paired on the rear axle with the tire having the most tread depth of the other three.

Why do my tires need to be balanced? Properly balanced tires are important for driving comfort and long tire life. Unbalanced tires can cause vibration, resulting in driver fatigue, premature tire wear and unnecessary wear to your vehicle's suspension. Tires should be balanced when they are mounted on wheels for the first time or when they are remounted after repair. Tires should be rebalanced at the first sign of vibration or "shimmy." Vibration may also be due to misalignment or mechanical problems. Many Gemini Automotive Care can provide expert diagnosis and repair.

There are a number of times during the year that it is good to buy a new car, but it really depends on the model. The first best time is at the end of the month. Dealers pay money when they have a car on their lot at the beginning of the month. The end of the year is also a good time. Not as many people are buying cars in the winter, so dealers want to move some product. Lastly, when a new model year is released, dealers want to unload the previous model year, because more people want the latest and greatest. These are good opportunities to take advantage of in order to save some money on your next new car.

Negotiate and settle on an exact price for the car before you discuss financing. Sometimes dealers will give you a break on one aspect of a car purchase-say, a low-rate loan-but then increase up the price of the car to compensate. Beth Kobliner, Get a Financial Life

If you are interested in buying a new car, before you set foot in a dealership, check with a credit union and at least two banks. In some cities, the difference among bank rates can be more than four percentage points.

Car Down Payments Be wary of financing options that require "no money down" or a very low down payment. A low down payment increases the size of the loan you will need and the amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan. Beth Kobliner, Get a Financial Life (1996)

Car Negotiating Try to haggle with the dealer and pay just 5% or so above the price he paid. In general, the sticker price is 10% to 20% higher than the price the dealer paid for the car.