Choosing Where to Take Your Car for Repairs

There certain car repairs that are best done at your local auto repair shop. Others can be done at the dealership or even at home. It’s always important to know where to take your car for repairs. It will all depend on the issue at hand.

Routine maintenance

Regular maintenance can be done at your local auto shop. This shouldn’t take a lot of time and it is intended to keep your car in top notch condition. However, you must find a credible auto shop to perform routine maintenance. Remember that the purpose of performing regular car maintenance is to identify minor issues before they worsen and become costly to repair. If you don’t take your car to the right auto mechanics, you’ll spend a lot of money and time fixing problems with your car when it’s too late.

Windshield replacement and repairs

There are some windshield repairs that can be done at home but this will depend on your level of knowledge and interest. You can buy the DIY kits available in local stores and fix a tiny rock chip on your windshield. However, most car owners are usually unable to fix rock chips properly so it’s usually best if you can take your car to the auto shop. Windshield replacement should never be done at home. You don’t have the skill and equipment to remove a broken windshield and replace it with a new one. So this is the kind of job you better leave to the experts.

Auto body repairs

Auto body repairs might seem pretty simple but they must be done by an expert. You can even go to the dealership if your car is still covered by the original warranty. This will prevent you from spending a lot of money at the auto shop while the dealership can fix the problem for free.

Replacement of vehicle parts

Always go to a reputable auto shop if you need replacement parts. Many auto shops offer car owners products that are not genuine and end up breaking down regularly. You need to avoid this by visiting an auto shop that you trust. Don’t be caught up in a scam because you wanted cheap replacement parts. Genuine products are best in the long run because you can rely on them to offer a good service life for many years to come.

There are also certain care issues which could be unique to your model or car manufacturer. When you experience such issues, it’s important to visit your dealership or auto shops that specialize in your make or model of car. These are the places you will find people who are highly skilled and experienced in dealing with the model and type of car you have. Don’t just take it to the nearest auto shop for it to misdiagnose the issue and waste your money. Sometimes car manufacturers perform free safety recall jobs in various dealerships. Consult your dealership if you experience an issue that is specific to your model like a problem with the navigation system.

Posted By: Faircloth Automotive http://fairclothautomotive.com

Brake Fluid: Knowing the Crucial Basics

With a basic hydraulic system, brakes are designed to use kinetic energy to slow down a moving vehicle. Whether driving at slow speeds or high, by pushing down on your brake pedals your car will use a fluid to transmit a force which your tires will then use to create a friction that will ultimately slow things down.

Understanding the full extent of the technology behind brakes requires a great deal of knowledge but what even the most novice driver will know is that without your brakes your car won't function but how many are aware of what they can do to ensure their brakes remain in prime working condition?

The condition of your brake pads is essential and as a driver, it is crucial to ensure that you maintain and regular monitor this not only to ensure the smooth operation of your vehicle but to improve your safety on the roads. One of the crucial ways of doing this is by knowing just what your brake fluid is, what it does and how you as a driver can use it to determine just how well your brakes are operating.

Whether you're new to it all, not sure of whether you know enough or just curious; below are the brake fluid basics that every driver needs to know...

·        Brake fluid has many responsibilities but its primary focus is the corrosion protection and lubrication of brake systems.

·        Without the fluid, your hydraulic brake system will not be able to operate.

·        Brake fluid is held in a fluid reservoir.

·        Adding fluid is generally not part of a standard vehicle service.

·        Low fluid levels or a sudden drop can be an indicator of several issues including low brake pads that may need to be changed.

·        On a few occasions air may enter the brake line. Bleeding the brakes can improve this condition however if your reservoir is struggling to contain the liquid then you may need to get it checked by your mechanic. This may not work with newer vehicles so check your manual before doing anything.

·        Brake fluid must never be substituted with any other fluid.

·        Become familiar with the brake reservoir so that you can easily check your fluid. There will be a "full" mark which will give you an idea of what level your fluid is at and what it should be at.

·        If your fluid level falls below the "add" line then you may need to have your discs checked.

·        As the car owner you should have no issue in topping up your fluid however if you have any other issues or any general concerns over your brakes then you should see a professional.

Getting from a to b is important but doing so safely should be on top of your list! By knowing as much as possible about your brakes, how they function, what role the right fluid plays and any issues that can occur you have a great chance of ensuring your car remains in the best condition and you as the driver are as safe as possible.

Thomas Robson is the development Manager at Central Audi VW; Birmingham's leading Audi, VW, SEAT and Skoda specialists. From MOT to car servicing, the specialist mechanics can provide everything you need.

Posted By: Faircloth Automotive http://fairclothautomotive.com