Archive | Automotive Maintenance

We cannot stress enough how important Pre-Buyers Inspections are!!!!  Here is our story of the week.  Young lady buys a vehicle for $7,000.00.  She didn’t know us then, and she had never heard of getting an inspection done before buying a car.  Well, she has learned a painful. expensive lesson.  Her car started running rough..then died.  She had it jumped and then drove it into us.  She told us that it had never overheated, but she had noticed that there was no coolant.  We got into the shop..Blown Head gaskets, amongst other things..Bill $5856.34…for all the repair that is needed.  We feel so bad for her.  So please, please ALWAYS, ALWAYS, get an inspection done BEFORE you purchase any vehicle.

Why is my check engine light on?  This is a great question that we hear daily. There are literally thousands of different items that can cause the “check engine” or “service engine” light to come on. From a fault as simple as a loose gas cap to an issue as complex as an internal computer fault. The first step to identifying the issue is to bring the car in for a preliminary evaluation. This way we can see what the codes are and then decide what the next course of action should be.  Sometimes it’s important to have diagnostics done right away to be sure no further damage is done, other times, it will be safe to continue to drive.  It’s always a good idea to get it checked out as soon as possible, especially if your vehicle is not performing in its normal way.

Today our little bit of Wednesday Wisdom would be reasons why you should change your air filter:
1. “Increased fuel efficiency”
2. “Reduced Emissions”
3. “Prolongs Engine Life”
4. “Inexpensive and Quick Fix”
5. Easy to Keep Track Of

Your engine wants to breathe clear air too. So make sure to always check your air filter and replace when dirty.

Did you purchase a New Car or Truck this past year?  Do you think that you have to take it to the dealer for all of your services or your warranty will be voided?  Not true.  You can take it to any independant shop of your choice to have the recommended maintenance done, it’s the law.  (see image below)  The only time you HAVE to go back to the dealer is for warranty or recall work.

Summer is almost here, well the hot weather is here already.  It’s time to prepare your vehicles for this hot summer weather.  Below is a chart that is filled with very useful information on how to do this.  If you have any concerns please give us a call and we will do whatever we can to help you, or answer any questions.

Is your air conditioner blowing Hot Air when all you want is some nice cool air on these hot summer days?  If you haven’t had your A/C service in the last 4-5 years, that is probably all it needs.  You A/C system is a closed system, and over time condensation builds up which stops it from blowing cold air.  When we service it we removed all of the refrigerant, dry the system, pressurize (to check for any leaks) and if no leaks are detected we put the refrigerant back in, and you have nice cool air again.  If by some chance there is a leak, we will discuss this issue with you, give you an estimate for the repair…and still get you on your way with nice cool air.

a/c not working, hot air

For our Tuesday Tip, we are suggesting a Summer Car Kit.  You never know when you may get stuck in traffic, or decide to take an impromptu road trip.  Having these items in your car will come in very handy during this hot summer weather we are having.