How to Maintain your New Car- What Every First Time Driver Should Know

Getting a new car is exciting. But you must be prepared to do all it takes to extend the life of your new car. You’ll have to keep up with some servicing and repairs if you don’t want your car to breakdown when you least expect it. We are going to look at the most common types of maintenance services required to keep your car in top notch shape.

Regular oil changes

You’ll need to change your oil regularly in order to make sure it adequately protects your engine and other moving parts from heat and friction. With time, the oil in your car is going to age causing the engine to breakdown. Most mechanics recommend an oil change after every 3,000 miles. With time the car will require more frequent oil changes as it ages.

Air pressure checks

No matter how expensive or durable your tires are, they are likely to lose air pressure over time. Making sure the tires are properly inflated is not just for enhancing their service life but also for your own safety. Under or over inflated tires can cause serious accidents especially when you are driving in high speeds.

Check your car battery

Your car battery is designed to last for up to 5 years but most times they never get to serve for that long. Issues like harsh temperatures and extreme driving habits can make the car batteries die quickly. What you can do is to have a mechanic perform a battery charge test on a regular basis especially if your tire has reached 3 years old. This test will alert you when the battery is about to die so that you can get a replacement.

Check the air filters

Every car has an air filtration system that is used to get rid of contaminants and debris from getting into the engine as it runs. Because these air filters block all manner of contaminants, they are likely to get clogged overtime. Clogged filters can undermine the performance of your car engine. This is because when the filters get clogged they are unable to reduce airflow making the car’s engine to work twice as hard. As the contaminants build up, they can easily make their way to the engine and wear down the metal parts. This compromises on the service life of your engine and exposes your car to more frequent repairs. The best you can do is to have the air filters checked on a regular basis and get a replacement after an oil change.

Replace the wiper bladesWiper blades deteriorate fast due to several reasons. For a start, they are usually made of rubber that is affected by extreme temperatures like heat. Salt and ice are also likely to affect wiper blades and make then wear down fast. If you notice the blades are not cleaning up rain or snow properly, it could be time to have them replaced. This is a quick and easy fix that must be done by a mechanic.

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

Is Your Vehicle Ready for Winter?

With Christmas now out of the way... you may realize that winter is here, right? You go out to your car get in and then it doesn't start. It just kind of makes a clicking sound or it does nothing at all. The lights may come on but are usually dim when this happens. So, you may have figured out that your car's battery is the likely culprit.

I was an ASE certified automotive technician for about 12 years... while it has been some time since I was in the field I do know a few things about automotive maintenance... here are some tips that could prevent some costly repairs and may make your life a little more enjoyable (by not having to deal with the issues in sub-freezing temperatures)!

When winter comes along there are some things that you should check or should have checked to be sure your vehicle is ready for the colder temperatures:

You should have your battery load tested to ensure it doesn't leave you "out in the cold" literally.

I know Autozone will test any battery for free... if you don't have an Autozone around make some calls... many places will likely check them to try to gain your business. I recommend if they only marginally pass if you know the warranty of the battery and it is within that warranty period... have it replaced with the same battery, if you don't know and it has been a while err on the side of comfort and replace the battery.

One thing most people neglect is their vehicles cooling system. (Now if you own an electric car or an air cooled car these may not apply... check with your auto manufacturer.)

Have the coolant/antifreeze tested and depending on where you live be sure it is safe well below what you would normally expect the lowest temperatures to be in your area... if you are traveling find out what the expected lows will likely be and be sure your coolant/antifreeze is good to well below the lowest temperature expected. If you haven't had your coolant tested it may freeze and the results could be disastrous. If your does freeze it could actually crack the block (worst case scenario), if you are lucky it will just push out the freeze plugs but when it thaws you won't have enough coolant left in the engine and if you try to drive it you would likely over heat it resulting in further damage. You should also have the hoses and drive belts inspected for wear. I don't know of any place that will do these services for free but call around again shops want your business and even if it may mean they only sell you a fan belt it may be worth it to gain a new customer.

Tires and Tire gas pressure

Check your tires... tread wear especially in winter is important as if the tread is worn you will have less traction when you may need it the most. Be sure the pressure is at the recommend level as well... colder temperatures will affect the gas pressure in the tires. I say gas rather than air as some tires now have nitrogen gas in them rather than air. Be sure of the gas(air or nitrogen) that is in your tire and have it filled with the appropriate gas.

Windshield wiper blades and washer fluid

Inspect your windshield wiper blade and make sure they are in good condition... if you don't know how old they are replace them... its cheap insurance against not being able to see well during rain and/or snow. Also, be sure your washer fluid is safe in freezing temperatures... most are good below zero but there are some that are only good down to 32 degree...

Another frequently overlooked item... lights!

If you haven't replaced your headlights in I would say 5 years... they are likely on "borrowed time"... yes I know they are expensive some are very expensive... however, would you rather be driving down the road at night in a snow storm and have one or worse both go out? Again, play it safe and replace them before you need to. I know you are probably saying they won't both burn out... the chances are small but I have seen it happen and unless you have the bulb with you and are ready to replace it in sub-freezing temps... replace them both! It would hurt to replace tail/brake light bulbs either.

A few more things I strongly recommend...

Pack an emergency kit and keep in in the passenger compartment if at all possible. Blankets, candy bars and or snacks, first aid kit, water, a communication source (cell phone), a transistor radio for weather reports, emergency flares, check your spare tire for wear and pressure, I usually carry tools and a spare fan belt, kitty litter (may help provide traction if needed), a tow strap, jumper cables and/or a jump box.

If you find this useful or informative please be sure and share it with others you may help prevent a problem that could have been prevented! I hope you have safe travels, and a happy and prosperous new year!

Live Life Large and Dream Larger!

Robert L (Larry) McSween

Share this article with anyone you know that may be traveling this winter... preferably before they start out. I welcome any input or suggestions feel free leave comments.

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

Steps for Choosing the Best Auto Repair Shop

Companies are built differently. Some will charge you double for a simple service whereas others will render questionable services. The case is the same with the auto repair shops. It is not uncommon for estimates to vary wildly between shops. Learning how to choose a reliable auto shop is crucial and here are the five steps you should take.

1.     Pay attention to recommendations

Any firm can advertise but you will be safer with the shop that family, friends and acquaintances recommend. This shows the shop will deliver services you can be satisfied with. Often times, the businesses recommended to you are not the best-known or the biggest in the region. But you can rest assured knowing your trusted friends loved the support they got from them.

2.     The location of the shop

The location of an auto repair shop will affect you in two ways; cost and ease of access. Shops that are located close to major towns tend to charge more for their services. This is because they deal with a special type of client and they have to keep up with the high cost of living. Second, if the shop is far from your main area of operation, you will spend more time and money getting your car to the repair shop.

As a side note, you must beware of high-end auto shops. Such shops will include non-essential work in their estimates so as to pay their high-end staff. Charges may include time spend removing the door or the hood.

3.     Get multiple estimates

When it comes to the auto repair shops, you need to pick one shop and stick with it for all your future repair and maintenance needs. However, before you can find that perfect company, you have to shop around. Take your car to different shops for different quotes. This will help you know the average cost of your auto problem as well as keep you from being overcharged. Even so, you shouldn’t just choose the most affordable shop. You might just get what you pay for. Verify the competence of a service provider before committing.

4.     Ask questions 

You have to be smart when going to an auto shop. Ask them the right questions to know if they are the right mechanics for your project. Some of the top questions you should ask include the following:

·       Do you offer written warranties and what does the warranty cover?

·       Do you have a theft and fire insurance?

·       Can I see your business license?

·       Which materials do you plan on using? New or aftermarket parts?

5.     Follow your sixth sense 

This is the final step. A shop may have the best reputation and the latest technology but if its office is never busy, it may be because motorists are avoiding it for their sloppy work. In addition to that, if the store is dirty, disorganized or cluttered, this may be a reflection of what you can expect. How is the customer service? Do you feel welcomed? Choose a shop you feel comfortable in.

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

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

How to Avoid Unnecessary Car Repairs

How to Avoid Unnecessary Car Repairs

Car repairs can be very costly and the good thing is that there are some ways to avoid spending money on expensive repairs. First, you need to take the car maintenance schedule very seriously. This schedule has been set by the manufacturer in order to help detect problems before they occur and require costly fixes. Following your car’s maintenance schedule also helps to ensure the automobile is always in perfect condition.

If the car has any issue, take it to a trusted repair shop immediately to have it checked. Sometimes repairs are less costly when handled immediately and they prevent bigger problems from emerging in the near future.

You should also consider upgrades that improve the performance of your car and also prevent future problems. For instance, you can upgrade your motor oil to better synthetic oil that will enhance engine performance. However, make sure you ask the auto technician for advice before you start using different motor oil. Some of the products available in the market are not as good as they have been marketed to appear.

Other routine maintenance requirements like changing the fluids and filters must be done as recommended in your owner’s manual. When the filters are left to clog, they will hinder the car’s performance. Making sure the tires are properly inflated is also very important. Too little or too much air can cause the tires to wear out. It’s also dangerous driving with an improperly inflated tire.

If your car is noisy, check with the owner’s manual for information. There are certain levels of noise that are considered normal. However, if the noise is on the extreme, consult your auto repair technician immediately.

Also make sure your car’s engine is properly tuned according to the factory specifications. This is usually done during routine maintenance but you need to consult your auto shop just to make sure. A well equipped shop with provide a reliable engine tuning service. Tuning helps to prevent engine misfire and even a mechanical breakdown caused by broken valves and cylinders.

After re-fueling the car, always place the gas cap tightly before driving away. This helps to prevent the EVAP (evaporation emissions system control) system from experiencing leakage or even failing. An EVAP leak can be detected by an auto technician using specialized equipment. If you suspect damage on this system, make sure you have it checked immediately because delays can cause costly repairs.

You also need to consider having a professional fuel system cleaning done after every 30,000 miles. Fuel system cleaning helps to prevent carbon buildup. When carbon accumulates in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, complications will arise. The EGR valve will begin to wear out over time and may have to be replaced. You can end up paying up to 700 dollars to repair this system so the best way to avoid this is by making sure the fuel system is cleaned thoroughly. If your car develops any issues, make sure they are addressed before leaving the auto shop.

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

How Much Will You Spend On Auto Repairs?

You depend on your car for many things and when it breaks down, you need to get it repaired fast, effectively and at a reasonable price. You can only get this done by taking your car to a reliable auto repair shop. So the first and probably the most difficult process is to identify the right auto shop.

You can't afford to take your car to just any other auto shop. Check to see if the auto repair shop has any disciplinary action taken against them in the recent past. Verify their licensing information as well and make sure they are registered with the respective bodies. Visit the auto repair shop to check whether they are organized and offer great customer service. The shop should also have modern equipment as well as clearly laid out policies on the cost of labor, guarantees and payment methods.

When you visit your auto repair shop, make sure you describe the issue fully to the experts. Remember that you know your car better than anyone else. Some of the common signs of auto repair issues include unusual sounds or odors emanating from the car's interior. If the car has issues with braking or handling then consider taking it to the auto shop immediately. In case you've noticed a low engine performance or the car is using too much fuel, take it for expert assessment immediately.

Be very detailed when explaining the issue to a car repair expert. Some problems can be easily diagnosed whereas others require the expert to perform an assessment in order to determine the underlying issue.

When taking your car for repairs, make sure they provide you with a written estimate. All the information regarding the auto repairs to be done should be included in this estimate. This means that the method of repair, the costs of items used and any substitute parts that will be required should be stated in the written estimate. The auto shop has no right to change the method of repair or parts earlier agreed upon without your consent.

There are cases when the car repair expert will discover that the estimated cost is likely going to be lower than the cost of actual repairs. In this case, someone from the auto repair shop should contact you and give you this information even before the repairs begin.

Sometimes the auto shop may have to take a while before they can come up with a reasonable estimate for the repairs your car needs. For instance, if the extent of car damage is severe or your automobile is having serious problems like transmission failure, the auto repair expert will need more time to come up with an estimate of their service.

Once the repairs are done, the auto shop is likely to send you an invoice. Make sure this invoice consists of the labor costs, all work that was performed together with the parts that were replaced during repairs. You can even request the auto repair shop to return any old parts removed from your car.

Faircloth Automotive is a Crawfordville Auto Repair shop that provides service in the following areas, Alignments, Tires, Air Conditioning, Tires, Brakes, Transmission and more. http://fairclothautomotive.com