Joe’s daughter let her Honda Element run low on coolant. Unfazed by those increasingly stern warning lights appearing in the dash, she drove on for miles — until the car overheated, warping the engine block.
Realizing that it was time to see a mechanic, she turned the keys back over to dear old dad, who took it to the dealer. Repair was out of the question due to the extent of the damage. The Element needed a new engine and the dealer could get one for $5,000. Or he could consider a rebuilt engine for less money– but also fewer guarantees.
Joe picked up the phone and called Car Talk Second Opinion. Our mechanics thought that putting a brand-new engine in a used car didn’t make the most sense. And for a car with less than 100,000 miles, the dealer’s $5,000 offer to repair the car was not all that generous. With a little research, our mechanics found a replacement engine that came with a 70,000-mile warranty. And, once that engine is purchased and installed (for an estimate of $3,600), the car’s trade-in value will be back up in the neighborhood of $12,000. Our mechanic saved him $1,400 up front and even with the initial investment, ensured that Joe can look forward to getting almost twice as much on a trade-in as the dealership originally offered.
Update: Joe replaced the engine with a used model and a brand-new water pump (the probable culprit). The Element is still a beloved member of the family.
An oil change takes only a few minutes, but it can add years to the life of a car. As a preventive maintenance measure, it saves wear and tear on your car’s engine. The amount of money that you can save by changing your oil at regular intervals can add up to a significant amount. Family Tire and Service performs the job many times every day.
Additional auto care services performed by our team of expert mechanics include:
alignments
brake jobs
engine tune ups
transmission repairs
replacement of shocks and struts
tire repair or replacement
Setting a Reminder
Automobiles provide access to transportation that is so convenient that it’s easy to take it for granted. Advancements in engineering continue to improve automotive performance, but no one has found a way to avoid the need for changing their car’s oil. Your local Grapevine auto repair shop can advise you on the type of oil that is the best for your vehicle, but it’s up to you to take your car to the shop in time.
Using the Standard Rule
The average interval between oil changes is usually based on mileage or months. Automotive experts recommend changing oil every time the odometer records 3,000 miles or each time that three months have elapsed. The lubricating qualities of oil tend to diminish with the passage of time or with a certain amount of use. Good vehicle maintenance includes accepting the advice of expert mechanics like those at Family Tire and Service.
A Record of Service
Family Tire and Service has provided expert repairs and maintenance for Grapevine since 1986. A company that was established in 1986 has a record of satisfying customers with superior service, and you can count on the same quality of service each and every time you need to have work done on your car. Call 817-488-5520 to set up an appointment.
2012 Los Angeles Auto Show will see2013 Nissan GT-R making its world debut. Nissan has already unveiled the specifications for the model and we expect the 2014 GT-R spec to be almost the same as the 2013 JDM-spec GT-R. But that doesn’t mean that we are not going to see any updates.
You will find minor tweaks and updates on the suspension, internal engine and interiors. The unique development process of Nissan GT-R is like taking an incredible step into a new dimension. Get ready for a super high performance form the vehicle that will test not only your own limits but also the models. The updated GT-R is now the second-fastest production car on standard road tires.
Read a comprehensive 2013 Nissan GT-R review here.
Exterior and interiors
The body of 2013 GT-R remains unchanged and is made of carbon, steel and fiber. It is carefully designed with die-cast aluminum to lower the air drag. The super-wide-beam headlights, large hood bulge and the characteristic 4-ring taillights on the sports coupe’s rear make it very easy to recognize. You will also find rear venting and spoiler, rear carbonfiber diffuser as well as included quad exhaust tips. There is a broad color palette for the customers to pick from, Pearl White, Gun Metallic, Gun Metallic, Deep Blue Pearl, Solid Red, just to name a few. In the interiors, you get a redesigned steering wheel, front seats in leather with hand-stitching. You will find red accents on the steering wheel, instrument panel, armrests, door trim and shift knob. The center-mounted tachometer has easy-to-read display information on steering angle, brake pedal pressure, mechanical and driving information, recording function etc.
Engine and performance
Engineers have placed harder-core suspension and more aggressive springs in 2013 Nissan GT-R. The model adopts for a new fuel injection that makes for a higher torque of 4500-6000 rpm and 545 hp. The more innovative3.8-liter double turbo V6 engine offers better performance with lighter weight and reduced friction. Get higher fuel efficiency, better power output and enhanced cooling. The high performance differential oil, is standard. There is a new oil pan baffle installed to steady oil behavior and oil pressure under extreme driving conditions. Avoid excessive CO2 emissions under secondary air management system. The 6-cylinder engine offers an impressive 23 mpg highway and 16 mpg city.
Safety features
2013 Nissan GT-R is brings new levels of performance and technology. Enjoy high end safety features like auto on/off headlights, speed sensitive wipers, NavTraffic, XM NavWeather, that come standard with GT-R. The model is equipped with ignition disable device to prevent the engine if the right manufacturer key is not used. The vehicle has means of detecting unwanted vehicle intrusion. There are Nissan Advanced Air Bag System for the passengers as well as the driver as well as load limiters and front seat belts.
Pros
Great looks and drive
Better mileage
Cons
Pricey
Concluding 2013 Nissan GT-R review, you get the message clearly when it comes to performance. The price of GT-R is now on sale and there has been an increase of $2,770 on the last years’ model. The GT-R Black Edition will cost you $109,300 and GT-R Premium will cost $99,590. You will find the use of advanced technology in the durable anti-chip paint, those more supportive side cushion and special slip-resistant leather. The GT-R offers the ideal engine power with 50:50 front-rear weight distributions and offers ideal engine power for a a super high performance. Find a great change starting with the engine with lower airflow resistance and higher efficiency.
Honda CR-V, a petrol-only offering, has never been able to deter its enthusiasts from buying the vehicle. Four out of every five buyers have bought this crossover SUV. The fact that it is an imported car and the price disadvantage too failed to discourage the buyers from buying it. After all, Honda CR-V is a status symbol, carrying many good thoughts. Honda manufactures the vehicle in UK and Japan and recently the new 4th generation CR-V, 2013 Honda CR-V has been unveiled.
The new model certainly carries a look that is different from the current model and certainly looks more aggressive.
Here is a comprehensive new Honda CR-V review.
Exterior and Interiors
When you look at the new 2013 Honda CR-V, you will find a much more sculpted body with most changes done on the front side. You find a more contemporary grille in place of the old-fashioned. The swept-back HID headlamps flank the three-bar grille makes the car look younger. The bold fender flares and ten-spoke alloy wheels make for some subtle changes. The vertical tail lamps get 3D treatment, enhancing the aerodynamics of the vehicle. A neat dashboard layout is seen in the interiors and the new CR-V enjoys a dual-tone interior theme in grey and beige. There is ample space for the headroom and the legroom in rear as well as front. You get features like LED-backlit indicators, smaller digital displays, fuel consumption indicator and a pair of unique LED-backlit indicators.
The newer model of Honda CR-V offers 2- and 4-wheel drive options but only with the 2-litre petrol engines. One can go for the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel unit that is not only more efficient but cleaner too. It is robust, quiet and purposeful. You will find much lower noise levels in 2013 Honda CR-V as there are new materials for insulation and new panels used on the underbody to lower the road and engine noise. CR-V continues to be a good handler on the road and you will find significant improvements on the bending and torsional rigidities. There is an increase of 10 per cent in the damper capacity.
Safety features
2013 Honda CR-V scores high on the safety features. There are front and rear side curtain airbags as well as front seat airbags. Other safety features include electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, antilock brakes and vehicle stability assist. The redesigned frame structure absorbs the collision energy and does away with the crash compatibility. The -protective performance gets enhanced in the car while the collision damage gets minimized.
Pros
Great performance
Loaded with safety
Great innovative features
Spacious cabin and classy interiors.
Cons
Restricted space in the rear
The new Honda CR-V is a great package, offering performance, handling and comfort of a sedan. The numerous safety features, powerful engine and stylish interiors have pushed its mobility ahead of the realms of the conventional driving. Get ready for a very safe driving experience, thanks to the G-CON technology. The interiors are no nonsense and practical. The high ceiling glass roof make it look and feel light and the spacious boot can get bigger by folding the rear seats. This is the first hydrogen powered vehicle with 0 emissions. You won’t find the new CR-V getting unsettled on the rough patches.
The new model will get launched in the near future. Unlike the preceding generations, the price of the new CR-V will be more competitive. Well, this is good news for all the SUV’s enthusiasts. Customers will appreciate the unique blend of spacious interiors, four-wheel drive and low fuel consumption.
If you need to reregister your car in Texas, first you need to pass an inspection. The yearly inspection ensures that all Texas cars are safe to drive on the road. The tires are an important part of this inspection. If you need help passing the Texas state inspection, Family Tire & Service can help you get your car ready to pass.
The tires are one of the most important pieces of any vehicle inspection in Texas. If the tires are not in proper shape, it can cause them to slip on wet or icy roads or to blow out while driving. Both of these problems could cause a serious accident, especially if the car is being driven at a high speed. For this reason, Texas requires tires to have a tread depth of at least 3/32 inches.
Older or worn-out tires often don’t have the recommended tread depth because a portion of the tire has rubbed off while driving on the road. These tires need to be replaced before you can pass the inspection. Buying new tires is often the best option. You can buy used tires more cheaply, but these tires may wear out before your next inspection.
Not all new tires are created equally. You want to make sure that your new tires not only have the proper tread depth, but are also designed to last for several years. New tires differ in price, and the most expensive tires are not necessarily the best ones for your needs.
You’ll need a tire replacement service in Grapevine that you can trust if you don’t know a lot about tires. That way, you can make sure you are getting the tires you need to pass your inspection and drive safely throughout the rest of the year. Call Family Tire & Service at 817-488-5520 to schedule your inspection appointment today.
No engine, no matter how well it is constructed, will last forever and will need some type of engine service. Even high performance ulra-high-end ones will eventually wear out and need an engine repair. An engine is composed of many precisely machined moving parts that work together under extreme conditions harnessing the power of internal combustion. If your car has seen better performance days, it may be time to consider an engine rebuild.
Engine Rebuild or Replace Your Vehicle? It's Your Call!
Ever used a clamp-on or strap-on device to help with traction on icy or snowy roads? Car Talk wants to hear from you, our loyal web site visitors, if you have. Tell us if it worked! Was it worth the investment?
And if you haven’t ever used a traction device, but want a little something extra the next time you drive to work, your can check reviews here.
Looking at getting some new tires? The choices at Burgaw tire stores can be a little overwhelming. Suppose you have an SUV and are trying to decide between all season tires or some that are also rated for off-highway. Do you get off the payment on the outskirts of Burgaw more than most? If so, some additional off-road traction would be nice.
Maybe the real reason for wanting those off-highway tires is that they look cool. Well there’s nothing wrong with that. If you make sure that you’ve got your functional needs covered with your selection, then you can have some fun with where you go from there.
Let’s suppose you zip around Burgaw in a sporty car. You may like to run a high-performance summer tire when the weather’s good. When North Carolina weather turns cold, you can put on high-performance winter tires. For the kind of driving you like to do, you want full-on performance tires. All-season tires are naturally a compromise that works well for most Burgaw drivers, but since you have a choice, go for dedicated summer and winter tires.
When it’s time for new tires, visit with a knowledgeable Atlantic Car Care tire professional. Describe your needs and wants. He’ll come up with some selections for you to discuss. And once you settle on a type of tire, there are options for special needs: like pulling a trailer or carrying heavy loads.
Tires are one of the biggest purchases for Burgaw drivers. With so many choices, you’ll be able to get what’s best for you. Take their time. And don’t worry about what’s in stock. If you want something that isn’t here at Atlantic Car Care, manager Mike Moore can order it. Chances are you’ll be rolling on your new tires in a couple of days.
Who knew that a tire balancing machine at Robert’s Auto Repair could be so high-tech with a 3-D laser guided operation? In today’s world with amazing technology, no longer do tire pros have to eyeball a wheel for precise tire balancing precision. Our team has the state-of-the-art equipment to balance even the toughest set of wheels.
Here are some of the things our tire balancing machine can do: It has a 1.5 hp direct drive motor running it. It has 8 balancing modes. The laser guided operation eliminates error by pinpointing the exact Tape-A-Weight placement and behind the spoke weight placement locations. It comes with a hood that helps the tire balancing process. Automatically indexes the wheel to the second weight position and holds again… with a push of a button.
What do all these features mean to you? Our tire pros can quickly and efficiently balance your tires and get you back out on the road in a jiffy.
If you need your tires rotated, balanced, or aligned, please come see us at Robert’s Auto Repair. We are located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940.
Mechanical — 831-373-1534 Body Shop — 831-373-1535
Speed Frame Racks at Robert’s Auto Repair allow us to do precise spot welding in a rapid and efficient manner. That is why Robert’s Auto Repair has included 2 new speed frame racks into our large $2 Million renovation that we completed last year.
Built by Car-O-Liner, Speed Frame Racks are designed to lift vehicles that require minor pulls and repairs. To watch the Speed Frame Rack in action, check out this video:
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If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident, call today to schedule an estimate for auto body repair at our 26,000 square foot facility, located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. You will be very glad you did!
Mechanical — 831-373-1534 Body Shop — 831-373-1535
A Kern County Roads Department project that was started last October 3 has now become the cause of dozens of windshield repairs and replacements for locals, as well as acrimonious relations between residents of the area and the county officials. The chip seal roadwork has apparently been performed quite poorly—at least, if the locals are to be the judge—and the result has been a great deal of aggravation for people traveling down the affected roads, which are the Frazier Mountain Park and Cuddy Valley Roads.
A former LA police officer who now resides in the area, Mike Jensen, has been vigilantly collecting and storing away evidence of the county’s sub par roadwork. Jensen was motivated to do this after he himself was bitten by the road bug, which has actually required him to get work for either windshield repair or replacement at least three times. He claims that traveling down the badly done road has incurred well over a grand in repair or replacement work for him, which is why he has been pushing for the county to do something about the situation.
Jensen is not alone: according to reports, well over 100 persons have suffered car damage due to the road, often due to the surface being so loose that other cars end up throwing aloft all manner of gravel and rocks at their vehicles, leading to dents on the body, broken side mirrors, shattered headlamps, and broken auto glass. The people included in the current count have apparently already filed complaints and claims with the county, which has been dilatory in answering many of them. Those it has answered, however, have apparently received refusals for the county to pay for their windshield repair or windshield replacement, with the reasons for the denial being vague.
Residents are understandably concerned, as they have little choice save to travel the road each day. Some residents have even given accounts of having their windshield repaired, only to experience the same damage just a few weeks after, on the exact same stretch of roadway. With the county continuously delaying answers even with the claims piling up, a lot of the locals are getting worked up—and have even discussed filing a class action suit, which would be the second time for Kern County to experience that, given that one already happened in the early 1980s, with remarkably similar circumstances: also for shabby roadwork and also for bits of gravel and other road detritus being thrown up by other cars as a result of poor road construction by the county and its workers. Locals are hoping that the current situation shall be resolved as it was then, with the law siding with the people filing the suit, so that their windshield repair and windshield replacement work can be paid for the county.
Ever used a clamp-on or strap-on device to help with traction on icy or snowy roads? Car Talk wants to hear from you, our loyal web site visitors, if you have. Tell us if it worked! Was it worth the investment?
And if you haven’t ever used a traction device, but want a little something extra the next time you drive to work, your can check reviews here.
The eco-friendly gimmick war continues to rage on. On the heels of Chevrolet unveiling eco-impact labels on its new vehicles, Ford has announced that its new-for-2013 Escape will be made with plant material.
Ford is replacing some of the materials in the Escape’s doors with kenaf, a tropical plant related to cotton and okra. Kenaf is edible and looks like bamboo; it’s currently used in making cosmetics and paper products.
Ford says using the plant improves the vehicle’s fuel economy because it reduces the weight of the door bolsters by 25%. Its fuel economy gains weren’t specified, however. The automaker says kenaf will help save oil in other ways, too. Because the plant replaces oil-based materials previously used in Escape’s doors, “the use of kenaf is anticipated to offset 300,000 pounds of oil-based resin per year in North America,” Ford said in a press release.
When the redesigned compact SUV goes on sale this spring, kenaf will join Escape’s soy foam seats and head restraints, recycled-tire climate gauges and carpet made from plastic bottles.
Ford’s Escape certainly isn’t the first green vehicle. Land Rover’s new-for-2012 Range Rover Evoque, for example, is made with 35.2 pounds of recycled plastic, or about 1,000 16.9-ounce plastic bottles.
Joe’s daughter let her Honda Element run low on coolant. Unfazed by those increasingly stern warning lights appearing in the dash, she drove on for miles — until the car overheated, warping the engine block.
Realizing that it was time to see a mechanic, she turned the keys back over to dear old dad, who took it to the dealer. Repair was out of the question due to the extent of the damage. The Element needed a new engine and the dealer could get one for $5,000. Or he could consider a rebuilt engine for less money– but also fewer guarantees.
Joe picked up the phone and called Car Talk Second Opinion. Our mechanics thought that putting a brand-new engine in a used car didn’t make the most sense. And for a car with less than 100,000 miles, the dealer’s $5,000 offer to repair the car was not all that generous. With a little research, our mechanics found a replacement engine that came with a 70,000-mile warranty. And, once that engine is purchased and installed (for an estimate of $3,600), the car’s trade-in value will be back up in the neighborhood of $12,000. Our mechanic saved him $1,400 up front and even with the initial investment, ensured that Joe can look forward to getting almost twice as much on a trade-in as the dealership originally offered.
Update: Joe replaced the engine with a used model and a brand-new water pump (the probable culprit). The Element is still a beloved member of the family.
When it comes to either keeping your vehicle with a major engine repair on the horizon or purchasing a new vehicle, the best choice for the economically conscious driver is an engine rebuild or installing a used engine.
New Year’s Eve turned from a fun holiday to a harrowing night for a Utah family on the way to Beaver Mountain when an accident caused their car to slide into the chilly Logan River. Apparently, Roger Andersen was driving with his two children, both under ten years of age, and a friend when he lost control of the car in a section of Highway 89 known for its high accident occurrence. The car fell into the river and while the adults were able to get out of the car subsequently, the two children were apparently stuck inside, with the auto glass windows blocking their egress and their seatbelts strapping them where they were.
Fortunately for the family, the locals passing by the area were quick to help. One particular trio, composed of a former policeman named Chris Willden, was instrumental to the rescue of the pair of trapped children. Willden and his companions, his father as well as his son, immediately jumped to action upon seeing the state of the family and the vehicle, and freed the children from their cage by shattering the auto glass of the rear window with his pistol.
According to Willden, it was necessary to take that measure because there was no other way of accessing the two children inside the rapidly flooding car. Although he and his father—along with the adults with whom the children were travelling—first attempted to open the car doors to extricate the trapped pair, they found that the doors were locked. The problem was aggravated by the rising water in the car, which could well have caused hypothermia for the two children had they been permitted to stay longer where they were. Thinking quickly, the former police officer aimed his pistol downward—to ensure that the bullet would eject without hurting the two persons in the car—and at the window of the vehicle, breaking the tempered auto glass and thus gaining access to the inside of the vehicle.
There Willden managed to cut loose the two children from their seatbelts and extracted them from the flooding vehicle. The unfortunate family in the accident was taken to nearby hospitals soon after, and were pronounced to be in fair condition only recently. While the two children actually started out in the ICU of the children’s hospital to which they were brought, their status was deemed to be vastly improved after medical care was given to them to stave off the possibility of shock or hypothermia. Local authorities are already crediting the quick and efficient rescue of the family to the dozen people who helped, most especially to Chris Willden, for his quick actions in breaking the auto glass to free the pair from the vehicle.
For more information from a criminal law attorney please visit DUI Lawyer Fresno
One of the most popular parts of any auto show is viewing the latest concept cars. While these prototypes are designed to inspire and show off new technology, few concept cars ever make the transition from prototype to production. Below are a few concept cars from this year’s auto shows that might actually have what it takes to make it past fuel and safety standards and be available at a dealer near you in the coming years.
Ford Atlas
Ford’s F-series has been a bestseller for many years, and the Ford Atlas concept truck shows the features that will take this classic and make it sleeker and more fuel efficient. New technology on the Atlas that may make it to the showroom includes active shutter technology that opens and closes on the grill and wheels to increase aerodynamics and reduce drag. Combined with a fuel-friendly Ecoboost engine, this new generation of truck will be welcomed by many current F series fans.
Toyota Corolla Furia
The Toyota Corolla has been the best-selling car in the world for several years running. While the Corolla is iconic, it is definitely time for an update or redesign. The Furia concept car is one idea of how the Corolla may change in years to come. With a more aerodynamic design and modern styling, this is not your grandmother’s Toyota. Key updates include a large eight-sided grill and shorter hood.
Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 has been a mainstay of the Chrysler line since 1955, and one of its bestselling models since the late 90′s redesign. The new Chrysler 300 includes a revolutionary new turbine engine that promises to keep the brand fresh. In homage to the jet turbine technology of the 60′s, Chrysler is planning to release this modern Chrysler in retro color palettes.
Honda Urban SUV
The SUV has always been associated with families in the suburbs who need to haul children and sports equipment all over town. With it’s Urban SUV concept, Honda is seeking to change this paradigm and market the SUV to a whole new market segment. Resembling the Honda Fit more than the CRV, the Urban SUV will combine fun with styling and flexibility.
Hyundai Genesis
This luxury sedan may be a bit farther away from the streets than some of the other contenders, but the preview of the Hyundai Genesis luxury sedan inspired much conversation at last year’s Detroit Auto Show. This concept car introduces a brand new way to control the car’s radio and other controls. Instead of using hands and being distracted, the Hyundai Genesis uses retinal scans and gestures to control most accessories. Hyundai claims this technology decreases driver distraction and will offer luxury sedans with a buttonless interior.
Volkswagen Cross Blue
The Cross Blue is a hint at the future of Volkswagen hybrids. Volkswagen has been the leader in developing hybrid cars that cross with diesel instead of regular gasoline, improving gas mileage over most other hybrids on the market today. The Cross Blue takes this technology even future, adding a plug in feature to the existing diesel hybrid.
This article was written by Lewis McKendry, who is the primary writer for www.shop-autoinsurance.com, which primarily deals with auto insurance rates and quotes.
There are different service intervals for your car and there are things that you need to check or have a mechanic check for you. These intervals are every month to every 90 thousand miles. Every Month Is your check engine light on Cleaning Lights Tire Inflation and Condition Windshield Washer Fluid
Every 3 Months/ 3K miles Automatic Transmission Fluid Battery and Cables Belts Check Engine Light On Engine Air Filter Engine Oil and Filter Exhaust Fuel Filter Hoses Lights Power Steering Fluid Tire Inflation and Condition Windshield Washer Fulid
Check Every 6 Months/ 6K Miles All 3K mile items and wipers
Check Every 12 Months/ 12K Miles All 3K mile items Spark Plugs Steering and Suspension Coolant (antifreeze) Chassis Lubrication
Every 30K/60K/90K miles Depending on your car these can range from a tune-up to a timing belt your mechanic or your owners manual can give you a list of what is recommended at these intervals. Every car has different intervals. These are very important when it comes to prolonging the life of your car. If you are checking these things every 3,6,12 months then this may prevent more costly repairs in the future. The 30, 60, 90 thousand miles are extremely important in preventing more serious issues with your car if you monitor and take your car in when it is due for these services.
Have you ever wondered what that mysterious noise was in your car?
You know…the one that sounds like “ping-ping”, “rrrrrattle”, or “zzzzzoooorrshhh”?
Yeah, that happens to us, too. All too often, after a vehicle has been damaged in an auto accident, it acquires new noises, which drive the owners nuts! That’s why Robert’s Auto Repair uses Chassis Ears to pinpoint specific noises so we can uncover their source and fix them.
Built by Matco Tools, Chassis Ears is a very helpful tool. To learn more about how we use Chassis Ears, watch this video:
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If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident or is making funny noises, call today to schedule repair at our 26,000 square foot facility, located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. You will be very glad you did!
Mechanical — 831-373-1534 Body Shop — 831-373-1535
The engine of your vehicle is just like your heart and your brain combined—it is the activity center of your car and keeps every other part of your car in working condition. If your engine is not working correctly, your whole vehicle could suffer the consequences. Family Tire & Service is a full-service auto repair in Grapevine that offers quality engine tune up services.
Just like your own health, your vehicle requires frequent attention in order to maintain a good bill of health. Ignoring or putting off maintenance for your vehicle could result in the development of some very serious engine problems. Scheduling routine maintenance for your engine at least once a year will ensure that your engine remains in top shape for your daily commute.
Any time the “Check Engine” light appears on your car’s dashboard means that your engine has detected problems and needs immediate attention from a service professional. When left undetected, problems with a car’s oil pressure or a gasket can require costly repairs or replacements later on. Our service team at Family Tire & Service uses state-of-the-art diagnostics tools to detect these serious problems before they ruin your day—and your wallet.
Family Tire & Service understands that your car is both an important investment and your means of transportation, so we guarantee that our team will take great care of your vehicle from the time it enters our shop until the time you drive away. When your car is so important, why not take it to the best auto repair service in Grapevine? Call Family Tire & Service at 817-488-5520 today to schedule your next engine tune up. You can also contact us using our convenient online service scheduler.
Means Testing And Credit Counseling In Bankruptcy Proceedings
Are you contemplating filing for bankruptcy in the state of Arizona? Then try to think a few essential things over first. Filing for bankruptcy shouldn’t be done haphazardly. It’s something that requires serious thought and planning as well. Usually, a person who is suffering severe and almost irreversible financial difficulties is one who should properly contemplate bankruptcy proceedings. But if you still have enough assets to cover your debts, then there may still be other better options for you to consider. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you should talk things out with a licensed bankruptcy lawyer in the state before actually going for it.
An experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Arizona will most likely require you to first undergo the means test and mandatory credit counseling before he will consider filing your bankruptcy petition. Why is this so? Stemming from the 2005 Reform Laws, these requirements were incorporated to the United States Bankruptcy Code in order to prevent abuses on the system. In the past, filing for bankruptcy was resorted to by more than just a few individuals to just frivolously avoid their financial obligations. This opened the doors to abuse which is why these tests were introduced as amendments to the existing legislation.
Essentially, the means test is for the purpose of evaluating the present income of the person as well as his remaining assets, assuming any are still left. The result of such assessment will determine whether he can file for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 or if he has no choice but to pursue a Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can only be filed if after undergoing the means test, the individual is found to be with very minimal to no assets left to cover his outstanding debts to his creditors. Your current income will also be calculated and reviewed accordingly to see if it can still be sufficient enough to meet your outstanding financial obligations.
As for the mandatory credit counseling, this lays down several crucial requirements for you to fulfill before you can file your petition. By the very term “mandatory,” failure to meet such requirements would lead to the dismissal of your petition by the bankruptcy courts. These requirements include:
Meeting with an approved credit counselor for a 90-minute session within 6 months before filing your bankruptcy petition;
Completing money management classes before your debts will be discharged; and
Developing a debt repayment schedule in case you’re filing under Chapter 13
Failure to undergo the means test or to fulfill any of the requirements for mandatory credit counseling will most likely lead the courts to dismiss your petition and at times, with prejudice as well. Thus, you have to be very prudent and discuss your bankruptcy plans thoroughly with a bankruptcy attorney in Arizona to make sure that you’re literally doing the right thing. Consult with your bankruptcy attorney today and put your financial burdens to rest for good.
Safety has become a prime concern for many car buyers when they are planning to buy new cars and therefore automakers like Buick have made sure that they incorporate the best technologies that enable them to come up with better safety features for the consumers.
The all new 2013 Buick Enclave is among the top 2013 vehicles that have received five star ratings for better safety and protection by IIHS. Buick revealed that the new 2013 vehicle is equipped with standard front center air bag that offers maximum protection and therefore has received five star ratings from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and has also become the 2013 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Buick claims that they have provided equal attention to the luxury options in the vehicle since 2013 Buick Enclave is a luxury crossover SUV but safety has always been the key factor that makes this car stand out of the competition. Gay Kent GM General Director of Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness said that safety is the key factor especially when the car is popular among family car buyers. He said that Enclave is designed to offer maximum luxury and comfort to the passengers and driver but it also offers excellent crash safety with the help of front center air bag which has been introduced for the first time in the industry. He said that while the front side air bags protect only the driver and front passenger the new front center air bag protects both the front passengers at the same time from crash damage.
Here we see Uncle Frank Myers in 1854, shortly after he led the William Stolley family across the Great Plains to settle in the Nebraska Territory. It was Frank who suggested the group set up their homestead at Grand Island and name it “Fort Independence,” after his first idea, “Independence Auto Maxx” was rejected.
Not only that, but his original plan to use the piece of land as the home of “Fort Independence Used Covered Wagons — Where Everybody Rides!” was also outvoted by the majority of the settlers. Sadly, Uncle Frank went on his way, leaving Fort Independence and the Nebraska Territory without a reliable source of quality vehicles for many decades to come.
About Uncle Frank
Uncle Frank has lived many lives and has many stories to share. He currently resides in Winston Salem, NC where he spends his days as the Frank Myers Auto Maxx Mascot.
* Uncle Frank Sez: “All content in The History Of Uncle Frank is a mixture of parody, poor satire, and/or (very) lame humor. It is for entertainment purposes only.”
Today’s report from Aero Auto Repair is on car batteries, why they die and what we can do to lengthen their life. Most of us have had a dead battery at one time or another. In fact, it would be very unusual if you hadn’t. You may be surprised to learn that only 30 percent of San Diego vehicle batteries last for 48 months.
Now that’s an average. How long a battery lasts depends on many factors. You may not know that one of the biggest factors is the temperature where you live and drive around San Diego. You might suppose that cold weather was harder on batteries because it takes more power to crank a cold engine, but the opposite is actually true.
For more information on your battery, please visit us: Aero Auto Repair 9756 Aero Drive San Diego, California 92123 858-309-4274
Batteries in very cold climates have a life expectancy of 51 months as opposed to 30 months in very warm climates. The reason is simple: batteries are chemically more active when they’re hot than when they’re cold.
A car battery will actually start to discharge on its own within 24 hours in hot weather. It takes several days in cold weather. When batteries are left too long in a state of partial discharge, the discharged portion of the battery plates actually, for the lack of a better word, ‘die’. Recharging the battery will not restore the dead part of the battery plate.
One of the big problems for the way most of us drive in the San Diego area, is that our batteries are often partially discharged. The biggest job the battery does is to start the car. It takes some time for the alternator to recharge the battery after starting. If you’re driving short distances, especially if there are several starts and stops, your battery may not fully recharge.
Another issue is that vehicles are coming equipped with more and more electricity hungry accessories like navigation systems, DVD players, CD and MP3 players, heated seats, heated steering wheels and so on. And we often plug in cell phones, computers and other gadgets. Combine that with short trips and it’s no wonder that our batteries are partially discharged.
Experts say we can extend our battery life by topping off the charge periodically using a good quality battery charger. You may’ve heard these chargers referred to as ‘trickle chargers’. They’re attached to the battery and plugged into a wall outlet to slowly bring the battery up to full charge.
Now there’s some science involved with how fast a battery should be recharged. If you buy a cheap manual charger, you’ll have to tend it. Frankly a learning curve on how to do it right and requires much attention. A computer controlled charger – or smart charger – monitors the process and determines the appropriate rate of charge. And it even stops charging when it’s fully charged. It costs more than the manual charger, but the automatic model is worth it.
The suggestion is to charge once a month in warm weather and once every three months in cold weather.
Another thing to avoid is deeply discharging your battery. Something like running the headlights and stereo with the engine turned off. That’ll take months off the battery life every time you do it.
Now, as we discussed, heat is hard on a battery. A dirty, greasy battery holds more heat. You can wipe off excess dirt with a paper towel or ask your service advisor at Aero Auto Repair to clean it for you. Aero Auto Repair can even test your battery and tell you if it’s time to replace it.
Batteries are fairly expensive, so taking a few steps to make them last longer is well worth it. Of course, the battery will eventually need to be replaced. Always make sure you get a new battery that meets the factory specifications for your vehicle. If you feel you need more battery capacity than what came with your vehicle, talk with your service advisor at Aero Auto Repair about appropriate upgrades.
If you have a dead battery, be careful to inspect it before you jump start it. If the case is bulging, cracked or leaking, do not jump start it. Damaged batteries can explode or catch fire. And deeply discharged batteries can freeze. Do not jump start a frozen battery.
Means Testing And Credit Counseling In Bankruptcy Proceedings
Are you contemplating filing for bankruptcy in the state of Arizona? Then try to think a few essential things over first. Filing for bankruptcy shouldn’t be done haphazardly. It’s something that requires serious thought and planning as well. Usually, a person who is suffering severe and almost irreversible financial difficulties is one who should properly contemplate bankruptcy proceedings. But if you still have enough assets to cover your debts, then there may still be other better options for you to consider. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you should talk things out with a licensed bankruptcy lawyer in the state before actually going for it.
An experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Arizona will most likely require you to first undergo the means test and mandatory credit counseling before he will consider filing your bankruptcy petition. Why is this so? Stemming from the 2005 Reform Laws, these requirements were incorporated to the United States Bankruptcy Code in order to prevent abuses on the system. In the past, filing for bankruptcy was resorted to by more than just a few individuals to just frivolously avoid their financial obligations. This opened the doors to abuse which is why these tests were introduced as amendments to the existing legislation.
Essentially, the means test is for the purpose of evaluating the present income of the person as well as his remaining assets, assuming any are still left. The result of such assessment will determine whether he can file for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 or if he has no choice but to pursue a Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can only be filed if after undergoing the means test, the individual is found to be with very minimal to no assets left to cover his outstanding debts to his creditors. Your current income will also be calculated and reviewed accordingly to see if it can still be sufficient enough to meet your outstanding financial obligations.
As for the mandatory credit counseling, this lays down several crucial requirements for you to fulfill before you can file your petition. By the very term “mandatory,” failure to meet such requirements would lead to the dismissal of your petition by the bankruptcy courts. These requirements include:
Meeting with an approved credit counselor for a 90-minute session within 6 months before filing your bankruptcy petition;
Completing money management classes before your debts will be discharged; and
Developing a debt repayment schedule in case you’re filing under Chapter 13
Failure to undergo the means test or to fulfill any of the requirements for mandatory credit counseling will most likely lead the courts to dismiss your petition and at times, with prejudice as well. Thus, you have to be very prudent and discuss your bankruptcy plans thoroughly with a bankruptcy attorney in Arizona to make sure that you’re literally doing the right thing. Consult with your bankruptcy attorney today and put your financial burdens to rest for good.
Around 230,000 vehicles were damaged by Hurricane Sandy’s rain and flood waters in late October. Now the National Dealers Association has warned car dealerships that some of those vehicles have been re-conditioned in order to be sold in other states, including North Carolina.
Tracy Myers, owner of Frank Myers Auto Maxx in Winston Salem, said he won’t be buying any water-damaged Sandy cars.
“If we get that car we’re not going to sell it. We advise any consumer to never buy a flood car,” Myers said.
If you’re in the market, Myers said there are some things you need to check out on a car to make sure it’s not water-damaged.
For the car’s interior, water lines are often hard to get rid of, and may still be visible even with repeated washing.
In the trunk, detailers often miss the spare tire well, which can become rusted if a heavy amount of water is in the trunk.
Under the hood, untreated bolts and screws will also show rust, despite a dealer’s best efforts. All of these examples should be red flags, Myers said.
Then there are the things you can’t see.
Robert Thomas, Director of Service at Frank Myers Auto Maxx, said water can damage the car’s on-board computer, which can cause the diagnostic system to malfunction.
“It’s impossible to completely dry a car’s electrical components if it’s been submerged,” Thomas said.
Myers advised all buyers to get a complete vehicle history report, which would disclose if a car had ever been flooded. “All reputable car dealerships will give consumers a complete vehicle history report, such as Auto Check from Experian, for free.”
Failing to disclose damage to a vehicle is a misdemeanor in North Carolina, and it can also leave someone convicted of the offense open to civil action.
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The engine of your vehicle is just like your heart and your brain combined—it is the activity center of your car and keeps every other part of your car in working condition. If your engine is not working correctly, your whole vehicle could suffer the consequences. Family Tire & Service is a full-service 
