Spring has arrived! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service. No one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! A professional radiator service will keep your car running smoothly and protect your engine from overheating, resulting in a radiator repair. A dependable vehicle doesn't just happen--it requires your attention, time, and some financial investment.
So take the pressure off and cool down your radiator by taking preventative maintenance measures and complete any radiator repair that is needed. Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick radiator service, or it could involve a more complex radiator repair. A trained technician can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle's cooling systems to determine what type of radiator service or repair work is needed.
The Department of Transportation has, in the works, a mandate to install backup cameras in all vehicles. Congress expects to have a final rule on the requirement by December 31st, 2012. The Department of Transportation has conducted a study which concluded that an estimated 228 people die and about 17,000 are injured annually in back over accidents and half of the deaths are of children. If this law does pass all passenger vehicles will have to have backup cameras installed by 2014. “Adoption of this proposal would significantly reduce fatalities and injuries caused by back over crashes involving children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other pedestrians.” It is estimated to cost between $159-$203 to have the visual display screen installed and will be even cheaper for newer model vehicles. If this passes, economy cars will be hit the hardest.
Are you ready to have a backup camera installed on your vehicle?
One of the most common methods of maintenance for your vehicle will be an oil change. This everyday means of making sure your automobile is operating effectively is one of the most important ways to keep your engine at peak performance levels. Oil changes rely on the efficiency of an expert automobile repair shop, and with the full-service Grapevine TX auto repair from Family Tire and Service, we provide just that.
When it comes to your automobile, it is believed that its oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, or three months. Obviously, for those with longer commutes or travel more frequently, 3,000 miles may not take three months, which is why there are two barometers for which to measure by. Oil can lose its greasing tendency over time, making for harmful consequences to your engine’s health and requiring an essential oil change. The oil can chemically break down over time, requiring replacement. Without replacing your oil, you are putting your engine in harm’s way and potentially damaging your vehicle’s transmission. One can easily check the oil levels through the dipstick located under the front hood. First, make sure your car is parked on level ground. Allow the oil to settle for a few minutes, then gently pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth. Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again. The oil reading on the end of the stick will tell you how much oil your vehicle currently has. If the reading looks low, it is time for an essential oil change.
Our Grapevine auto repair shop proudly provides service to the following cities: Colleyville, Coppell, Dallas, Flower Mound, Grapevine, Irving, Keller, North Richland Hills, Roanoke, Southlake, Trophy Club, and Westlake.
For additional information regarding oil changes in Grapevine and the surrounding area, Family Tire and Service is here to help. To schedule an appointment, contact us online, give us a call at 817-488-5520, or simply swing by our Grapevine auto repair shop.
Honda, one of the most popular automobile manufacturers of the globe, has revealed that it is working on a planned production model named VEZEL, which will offer the most outstanding features to car lovers in the coming months. The vehicle will be showcased during the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, which will open for general public on this Saturday and will close on December 1, 2013.
More information about the vehicle will be given in a press event on December 19, 2013 and the VEZEL will be on sale on the next day, December 20, 2013 in Japan.
Honda has combined features and values of different vehicles in the VEZEL and it is expected to be a completely new model. As per reports, the VEZEL possesses the elegance of a coupe, the functionality of a minivan and the dynamic qualities of an SUV.
The VEZEL has an extremely attractive exterior, having the coupe-like styling in its upper body and SUV-like stability in its lower body. Extremely sharp character lines have been used to combine these two different kinds of styling, which has resulted in a fascinating exterior design.
Other than that, the front seats of the vehicle offer a lot of personal space to passengers like in a coupe; whereas, the rear seats are extremely comfortable with superb elbowroom and modern functionality just like a high-class minivan.
Both gasoline and hybrid models will be on sale in Japan. While the gasoline model will have a 1.5 liter direct injection engine, customers will enjoy a SPORT HYBRID i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) in the hybrid model with a 1.5 liter direct injection engine.
Both these models will offer brilliant fuel economy as well as driving performance due to the new-generation powertrain technologies.
The exterior design of the VEZEL has been made available on Honda’s website.
The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle is immediately recognizable as a descendant of the hippie-inspired 1960s Bug. The shiny standard wheels are even modeled after the Bug’s wheels from decades ago. Under the surface, though, the Beetle shares most of its parts with workaday Volkswagens such as the Golf and Jetta. Since it is sold as both a coupe and a convertible, the Beetle decides to change up its Powertrain lineup in 2014.
Trim Levels
2014 Beetle is available in three trim levels differentiated by engine: base (1.8-liter turbo), TDI (diesel) and R-Line (2-liter turbo).
Exterior and Interior
The exterior of the 2014 Beetle is really fascinating and head turning. Standard features on all Beetle models are power operated fabric top, heated mirrors, heated windshield washer nozzles and three wheel choices, 17 inch alloy, 18 inch and 19 inch wheels.
The 2014 Beetle’s interior uses some nice materials, though the Golf is still the winner here. At least the dashboard can be dressed up with body-color inserts, which is necessary, to compete against MINI and Fiat. VW is proud of the R-Line’s standard Kaeferfach glove box, which is a heritage feature with an upward-opening door. The R-Line also has three secondary gauges atop the dashboard.
The 2-person backseat is certainly useful, but headroom in the hatchback is naturally limited by the sloping rear roof line. Cargo space in the hatchback is good 15.4 Cu ft in the trunk, but maximum capacity is only 29.9 Cu ft.
The Beetle was redesigned two years ago for both male and female buyers. The New Beetle met almost universal acclaim for its design when introduced but was not a big success. To attract more male buyers, its look is now more masculine, especially with the lower, flatter roofline and much upright windshield. It’s modern, but not in a trendy way. This shape should hold up over the years.
Safety Features
2014 Volkswagen Beetle has 4-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes and four airbags (front and full-length side-curtain). The R-Line’s (and GSR’s) front brake discs are slightly larger. It has good frontal and side impact safety. VW’s Car-Net connected services include crash notification, stolen-vehicle location, boundary and speed alerts, all accessed via a nifty Smartphone app.
Power and Performance
Beetle started the 2014 model year with a 2.5-liter five-cylinder in the base model, but Volkswagen replaced this engine with a new 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The 2.5-liter five-cylinder rated 170 horsepower and up to 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway; VW rates the new 1.8-liter turbo at 170 horsepower as well. The new turbo four-cylinder boosts gas mileage by 16 percent, however, for the best mileage, there’s the Beetle TDI Clean Diesel, scoring 28 and 41 mpg city/highway. The 2014 Beetle R-Line offers 210 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Most Beetles offered with a choice of five- or six-speed manual or six-speed automatic or dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Another 2014 Beetle GSR has limited sales to 3,500 GSRs in total, each having a unique interior and exterior color theme and special equipment. It uses the same Powertrain as the Beetle R-Line.
Pricing and Availability
MSRP of $45,100 – $72,300 and is available for sale.
Competitors
Ford Mustang V6 convertible, Mini Cooper convertible, Fiat 500, Chevrolet Camaro
Pros
Modern take on classic Beetle linesVintage touches available
R-Line’s turbo thrust
Cons
Small back seat
Weak base five-cylinder
Gas mileage less than impressive on non-diesels
The Verdict
The Beetle is a fantasy. It gives most of the Golf’s fundamental goodness and it packages those qualities in a uniquely eye-catching wrapper, particularly if Convertible models are chosen. Furthermore, the beetle is a nice and impressive choice for female.
Drivers have a lot of questions after experiencing an auto accident and will typically turn first to their insurance company for answers. Your insurance company can be…
This is a question asked often at Robert’s Auto Repair, and the answer depends on your insurance company and your specific auto insurance policy. When you come to Robert’s Auto Repair, here’s how we interact with your auto insurance company during the course of the auto body repair:
Generally when you have a claim, you will contact the insurance company and they will issue you a claim number, and let you know what your deductible is.
After you receive your claim number, you have the right to go to any auto body repair shop of your choice for estimates and/or repair.
Once you choose your auto body shop, you may get started with the repair.
If you were to come to us, our estimators will assess the car’s damage and take photos documenting what auto body work needs to take place.
We will report to your insurance company our full estimates of the repair cost and will come to an agreement with them about what will be repaired.
If your insurance company comes back to us saying that they disagree with what we plan to repair, our estimators will continue negotiating with your insurance company until the repair costs are mutually agreeable.
If we discover that there is hidden damage found, we will continue negotiating with your insurance company until there is agreement to repair the damage.
The Robert’s Auto Repair team and your insurance company always come to an agreement, and this process allows us stand behind our workmanship with a lifetime warranty.
What does this process mean for our auto body repair customers?
We shield our customers from having to do all the legwork and negotiations with the insurance company.
There is no “smoke and mirrors” about how the Robert’s Auto Repair team handles insurance repair.
Our customers are only responsible for paying their deductible and not the bulk of the insurance covered repair.
We streamline the entire auto body process for our customers from start to finish.
Our customers end up with a repaired vehicle in a short amount of time, restored to pre-accident conditions.
The entire auto body repair process is a win-win-win for everyone.
If your vehicle has been in an accident and requires auto body repair, contact us online to schedule an appointment. Got questions? Call our main number at (831) 373-1535. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon!
Honda, one of the most popular automobile manufacturers of the globe, has revealed that it is working on a planned production model named VEZEL, which will offer the most outstanding features to car lovers in the coming months. The vehicle will be showcased during the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, which will open for general public on this Saturday and will close on December 1, 2013.
More information about the vehicle will be given in a press event on December 19, 2013 and the VEZEL will be on sale on the next day, December 20, 2013 in Japan.
Honda has combined features and values of different vehicles in the VEZEL and it is expected to be a completely new model. As per reports, the VEZEL possesses the elegance of a coupe, the functionality of a minivan and the dynamic qualities of an SUV.
The VEZEL has an extremely attractive exterior, having the coupe-like styling in its upper body and SUV-like stability in its lower body. Extremely sharp character lines have been used to combine these two different kinds of styling, which has resulted in a fascinating exterior design.
Other than that, the front seats of the vehicle offer a lot of personal space to passengers like in a coupe; whereas, the rear seats are extremely comfortable with superb elbowroom and modern functionality just like a high-class minivan.
Both gasoline and hybrid models will be on sale in Japan. While the gasoline model will have a 1.5 liter direct injection engine, customers will enjoy a SPORT HYBRID i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) in the hybrid model with a 1.5 liter direct injection engine.
Both these models will offer brilliant fuel economy as well as driving performance due to the new-generation powertrain technologies.
The exterior design of the VEZEL has been made available on Honda’s website.
Gearing up for that long-awaited for summer road trip? For smooth driving ahead and to prevent a major engine rebuild down the road, make sure you have kept your vehicle maintenance up-to-date, including an engine repair. Don't get stranded in a strange town following a breakdown on the road, wondering if there is a trustworthy auto shop close by for an urgent engine repair.
Many vehicle drivers are not aware of the fact that hot weather makes existing engine problems worse. So, for smooth summer traveling, connect the dots on the road map of vehicle maintenance below and you will be able to start the summer with confidence:
Experienced drivers probably already understand the importance of having the correct air pressure in your tires. New drivers should remember that checking air pressure is a vital tire service! The incorrect inflation pressure can cause premature wear and tear of the tread, void the manufacturer's warranty, and may cause permanent damage to your wheel. If the air pressure has been consistently lower or higher than the recommended pressure listed in your owner's manual, it may be time for a little tire repair, or it's time to purchase new tires!
Why is the correct inflation pressure so important?
All Tech Auto Repair is all about our customers and what we can do to help them out. From our scheduling to our pick up and delivery service we are trying our best to look out for our customers.
We want to provide you with the best experience possible with us, so we will go the extra mile for your convenience. Our shop offers a pick up and delivery service to our customers in the area, we will come pick up your vehicle from home or work, complete your service or repair, and deliver it back to you. We also provide our loaner car to customers that will be with out their car for a few days or if we are working on their only vehicle. These are both services that we offer free to our customers.
To assist our customers further we know that people have busy lives and we would like to contact you with your best form of contact be it fax, phone, email or text. We have these options for you so that we can contact you get your approval and get your car back to you as soon as possible. We have accommodations for people to wait in our office for services such as oil changes so that if you do not have the availability to leave your car we have a place for you to wait comfortably while we service your vehicle. Our goal is to get you in and out efficiently. We want to fix your car correctly in the quickest time. All Tech Auto Repair knows how important our customers cars are to them so with our system we have the techs doing the inspections while our office is making an estimate for your so that we can call you with an estimate and get your repairs done as soon as possible.
Our Warranty- we provide our customers with a life time warranty for most repairs. We stand by our repairs and if any issues arise with a repair that we have done we will get you right back in and take care of that for you. We take pride in our customers and will do our best for you. We send our reminders of any services or repairs that your vehicle is due for based on mileage or previous inspection preformed by our mechanics. These provide you with the information that your car may need some repair so you can be aware and prepared. On all our invoices that we give customers there is a list of any recommended repairs that you may not have completed at this time so that you know what additionally needs to be done with your car. We want our customers to be informed and aware of anything that their vehicle may need so we can keep their running in optimum condition.
Let us know how we are doing we would love the feedback and we encourage reviews so that we know what we are doing right and what we can improve on so we make your experience convenient and positive.
We’re going to be talking about the ethics of automotive repair. It seems like news outlets really like hit-and-run reporting; they hit everyone from groceries stores to retail to physicians. And the Wilmington automotive service and repair industry hasn’t been given a pass either.
Unfortunately, every profession in Wilmington has some bad actors that hurt the reputation of everyone else. On the automotive side, industry associations and professional licensing organizations are very committed to high ethical standards.
Yet some people remain uncomfortable with Wilmington automotive service and repair. It may start with the fact that our vehicles are a big investment and we rely on them for so much in our lives. That alone guarantees our attention. And how well we understand the recommendations really impacts our comfort level.
If we understand what’s recommended and the benefits of taking care of the work – and the pitfalls of putting it off – we’ll have more trust in the recommendation. So communication is key. It’s like going to the doctor; If she’s using medical jargon and takes a lot of basic medical knowledge for granted, we have a hard time following her train of thought. It can be like that with your Wilmington service advisor too. He’s so familiar with all things automotive, he may forget you don’t know a PCV from an EGT.
If you don’t understand what your doctor’s talking about: ask some questions. If you don’t understand what your Wilmington automotive advisor’s talking about: ask some questions.
Let’s go back to those ethical standards; when we hear a repair recommendation, we always ask ourselves, “Is this really necessary?” Well, here’s the industry standard:
If a technician tells you that a repair or replacement is required it must meet the following criteria:
The part no longer performs its intended purpose
The part does not meet a design specification
The part is missing
For example, it you take your car in for a grinding noise when you step on the brakes, you may just think you need new brake pads. After the inspection, the technician at Atlantic Car Care says that you have a cracked rotor and need to replace it.
If you tried to get him to simply put new pads on, he would say that if you didn’t want to replace the rotor; Atlantic Car Care would ethically have to refuse the repair.
To just put pads on a cracked rotor would have been very wrong. The brakes could’ve failed at anytime and needed to be repaired – not just have a band-aid slapped on them.
Now, looking at something not so serious, the technician may suggest repair or replacement if:
The part is close to the end of its useful life – just above discard specifications or likely to fail soon
To address a customer need or request – like for better ride or increased performance
To comply with maintenance recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer
Based on the technician’s informed experience
Of course, the technician has the burden of making ethical recommendations and properly educating their customers. For the customer, if you are uncomfortable with a recommendation, ask some questions. More information is always a good thing.
When it comes to insuring your car, there are many different types of policies and options available. Choosing the right coverage protects you from financial hardship after…
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 intervals for a car tune up will vary from one vehicle to another. Today's newer cars with electronic ignition and fuel injection systems can go from 25,000 miles to as many as 100,000 miles without needing a major tune-up, or what manufacturers now term as a maintenance service. However, older cars with non-electronic ignitions generally require a tune up every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or every year, whichever comes first.
Scheduling a car service to make sure your AC system is working at maximum efficiency is always a good idea when facing the hot days of summer ahead. Because you will want to be cool and comfortable in your vehicle for that first family vacation, or your daily commute, you may need to consider whether your A/C needs a car repair.
The AC system works by removing the heat and humidity from the air inside your vehicle so that the inside stays cool and comfortable. This system relies on several key components: a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, pressurized refrigerant, values and hoses—all controlled electronically.
The four symptoms below are indicators of a needed car repair for your cooling system:
This is a question asked often at Robert’s Auto Repair, and the answer depends on your insurance company and your specific auto insurance policy. When you come to Robert’s Auto Repair, here’s how we interact with your auto insurance company during the course of the auto body repair:
Generally when you have a claim, you will contact the insurance company and they will issue you a claim number, and let you know what your deductible is.
After you receive your claim number, you have the right to go to any auto body repair shop of your choice for estimates and/or repair.
Once you choose your auto body shop, you may get started with the repair.
If you were to come to us, our estimators will assess the car’s damage and take photos documenting what auto body work needs to take place.
We will report to your insurance company our full estimates of the repair cost and will come to an agreement with them about what will be repaired.
If your insurance company comes back to us saying that they disagree with what we plan to repair, our estimators will continue negotiating with your insurance company until the repair costs are mutually agreeable.
If we discover that there is hidden damage found, we will continue negotiating with your insurance company until there is agreement to repair the damage.
The Robert’s Auto Repair team and your insurance company always come to an agreement, and this process allows us stand behind our workmanship with a lifetime warranty.
What does this process mean for our auto body repair customers?
We shield our customers from having to do all the legwork and negotiations with the insurance company.
There is no “smoke and mirrors” about how the Robert’s Auto Repair team handles insurance repair.
Our customers are only responsible for paying their deductible and not the bulk of the insurance covered repair.
We streamline the entire auto body process for our customers from start to finish.
Our customers end up with a repaired vehicle in a short amount of time, restored to pre-accident conditions.
The entire auto body repair process is a win-win-win for everyone.
If your vehicle has been in an accident and requires auto body repair, contact us online to schedule an appointment. Got questions? Call our main number at (831) 373-1535. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon!
Over the years, BMW has manufactured a number of amazing vehicles and cemented its brand as one of the best in the automobile market. If you are looking for an economical and full of comfort city car or you live at a crowded place, 2014 BMW i3 having absolutely zero-emission is just the perfect car for you. Experts believe that this model would be a massive hit in crowded cities like Tokyo, Amsterdam, New York, London, etc.
Performance
2014 BMW i3’s drive is quite smooth and well-controlled; however, it is not that soft due to the stiffer sidewalls of the narrow and tall tires. In comparison with other electric cars in the market, the i3 offers an amazing driving experience with automatic transmission and regenerative braking, which allows one-pedal driving. On the road, the i3 is very crisp, with a tight turning circle of 32.3 feet and nimble handling. Despite the fact that it is ideally suited for driving in the city, the i3 runs quite well on the highway as well.
Speed
BMW i3 possesses a smooth continuous torque from takeoff, like most battery-cars. From 0 to 60 miles per hour, the 2014 i3 will accelerate in about 7 seconds. It takes 3.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 35 miles per hour. The top speed is 93 miles per hour, which is very good for a small electric car.
Price
It is priced at $41,350 in the US and £25,680 in the UK.
Economy
2014 BMW i3 is a remarkably efficient electric car when it runs on grid power, which it is expected to do for a lot more than half of its miles. The built-in charger is capable of up to 7.4 kilowatts, which is greater than some of its competitors like Nissan Leaf and some other electric cars, as they offer 6.6 kilowatts. The charger can charge 80 percent of the battery or more in less than four hours. On top of that, users can get their cars recharged from public charging stations as well.
Exterior
One has to admit that the exterior of 2014 BMW i3 is not quite up to the mark as the straight lines and curves at the rear looks a bit confusing. However, it is very elegant from the front three quarters and side views. A brilliant profile of the tall shape, the snub nose and the car’s wide stance offer a very solid look. When the car is shown with its front wheels cocked, the narrow tires can be a little disconcerting.
Interior
There are no question marks about the car’s interior though as it feels like a loft living room. Controlled through the iDrive knob on the console, the 10.2-inch display screen presents an amazing picture at the top surface of the dashboard. On top of that, there is a smaller screen behind the steering wheel. Interior panels are made of kenaf. All in all, the interior is simple but elegant.
Pros
Extremely smooth and powerful acceleration
Brilliant handling at low-speed
State of the art interior with all the modern functions
Cons
Lines on the body of the car appears to be an old design
The rear-seat access can be a touch awkward
Body roll, wheel hop not like traditional BMWs
Competitors
Some of the top competitors of 2014 BMW i3 are Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt, Fiat 500E and Ford Focus Electric. However, the i3 possesses superior features for a city car and is expected to gain a lot of popularity with the passage of time.
Verdict
The 2014 BMW i3 is surely one of the best electric cars in the market, which is likely to pose a major threat to its competitors. I would give it 9 out of 10.
Does payload really make a difference when it comes to the efficiency of brakes? You've seen the commercials for pickup trucks--heavy-duty machinery hoisting construction materials so hefty that when placed in the bed of a truck, the entire back dips under the weight, and then bounces back up. Most pickup drivers want to able to carry a large payload. But not all trucks are made the same. Be sure to read your owner's manual for the listed payload.
What is Payload? Payload is the amount of weight a vehicle can safely hold. There are three main issues of "pay load" that affect the safe handling of a vehicle:
Your vehicle’s airbag system is one of the more important safety components of your automobile. Airbags are deployed upon impact and can protect you and your passengers from fatal blows during an accident. Airbags have saved thousands of lives, but in order to do so, they must be checked and maintained on a regular basis.
The most important parts of the success of the airbag system are the crash sensors, and these sensors need to be checked by a certified mechanic. There are two types of airbag sensors in cars: electrical and mechanical. According to this article:
“Electrical sensors vary in design. Some use an electromechanical “ball and tube” mechanism, which basically consists of a small tube containing a circuit switch and ball that’s held together by a small magnet. If a collision occurs, the ball is dislodged from the magnet and rolls forward in the tube, hitting a switch that completes the electrical circuit. Other electrical designs are similar in principle, using a metal roller or spring loaded weight instead of a ball, or in newer cars, an accelerometer to trip the sensor. Mechanical sensors work independent of the electrical system and respond similarly to the electrical sensors, with a design that actuates a firing pin triggering a small explosion after a crash. Since a mechanical sensor does not require a power source, it cannot be deactivated like an electrical sensor can when the battery is disconnected.”
At Robert’s Auto Repair, our certified technicians can check your vehicle to make certain everything related to your vehicle’s airbag system is in order. From the airbags, to the sensors, to the inflators that deploy the system when triggered, we will check to make sure your airbag system meets factory specifications.
In addition to airbag system maintenance, our mechanical repair technicians can provide complete minor and major maintenance for your vehicle. To schedule an appointment online, click here. To contact us during business hours, call our main number at (831) 645-4712. Robert’s Auto Repair is located at 234 Ramona Avenue in Monterey, close to the Highway 1 Del Monte Exit for Pacific Grove. We look forward to seeing you soon.
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.
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
It’s important to keep your tires properly aligned because doing so extends tire life, preserves braking stability, promotes better handling, and keeps your ride smooth. Knowing what the signs of a misaligned car will help you avoid damage to your tires and expensive repairs. Family Tire & Service encourages you to watch for these indicators that your car needs to be aligned.
Uneven Tire Wear
When you schedule a vehicle inspection, your experienced Grapevine auto repair specialist will take a close look at your tires to determine the level of alignment. When the tires are out of position, you will have more wear on the outside edges of your tires than along the center. Take a look at your tires occasionally to be sure they are wearing evenly.
Pro Tip: When you have your oil changed, it’s also a good idea to have the tires rotated to promote even wear and a smooth ride.
Steering Wheel Vibration
Improper alignment leads to uneven tire wear, and that makes your steering wheel vibrate. If you are driving and feel a vibration through the steering wheel, you should take your car to an auto repair shop. Even if the wheel alignment is correct, there may be another issue with the suspension that requires attention.
Drifting
When you are on a straight and level stretch of road, take your hands off the wheel for a moment. The car should continue traveling in a straight line. If it pulls left or right, your alignment may be incorrect. Problems with the suspension and alignment can also cause your steering wheel to be off-center when the vehicle is traveling in a straight line.
It’s wise to ask for an alignment inspection and tire rotation when you take your car in for an oil change. Catching problems early helps you avoid serious damage and costly repair bills.
Family Tire & Service can keep your car running smooth longer by providing you with these important maintenance services. Call us today at 817-488-5520 to make an appointment.
On Friday, April 11th, the Believe and Achieve Foundation held a “Pep Rally at the Y” at the Oscar Lasco YMCA Youth Program Center in West Chester, PA.…
Spring has arrived! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service. No one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! A professional radiator service will keep your car running smoothly and protect your engine from overheating, resulting in a radiator repair. A dependable vehicle doesn't just happen--it requires your attention, time, and some financial investment.
So take the pressure off and cool down your radiator by taking preventative maintenance measures and complete any radiator repair that is needed. Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick radiator service, or it could involve a more complex radiator repair. A trained technician can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle's cooling systems to determine what type of radiator service or repair work is needed.
The luxury automotive manufacturer, Maybach, has just submitted its entry for the 2011 LA Auto Show Design Challenge, putting forth a recreation of the classic Berline carriage into an updated version of Cinderella’s enchanted pumpkin. Among other things, the Maybach Berline is going to be fitted with oversized moulded auto glass panels for the gull-wing doors, a virtual chauffeur centre, and retractable stairs: Cinderella’s ideal fairytale experience, in other words.
The first thing that pops into your head when you see the Maybach Berline is simply awe. The whole thing is gorgeous, and with the huge auto glass doors, looks like something that has popped straight out of a futuristic film. This is in keeping with the theme of the contest: the LA Auto Show Design Challenge is basically a competition for various automakers to see which one can design the next “dream car” for Hollywood.
The Berline is in good standing in the competition. Equipped with only the most luxurious amenities and provided with a teleoperation system that saves occupants of the car from having to deal with the (often intrusive) presence of a driver, the car is perfect for several dozen movie plots that are all takeoffs on the original Cinderella story. Auto enthusiasts, especially those who loved the Mercedes-Benz GL Class, should also find another type of perfection in the car’s lines, as its futuristic look is not without references to some of the most popular cars of old.
The interiors are particularly attractive in the Maybach Berline. One can practically envision all types of film sequences playing out in it due to the tête-à -tête positions of occupants—a return to the old horse-drawn carriages back in the day.
The Berline is going to be in stiff competition, though: also participating in the event are Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, Hyundai, and Honda. Mercedes-Benz, which collaborated with Maybach in the creation of the Berline, is actually putting forth two entries from two separate branches, one from N. America and Germany. The former is going to be fielding the Mercedes Silver Arrow, the latter the Smart 341 Parkour. Subaru is going to be submitting the Subaru Horizon, designed by its team in Tokyo. Hyundai is submitting the Stratus Sprinter, a car conceptualised for a vampire movie, and Honda is submitting the Honda Intelligent Horse, a futuristic concept car with striking lines and unusual wheels.
The concept cars all feature some sort of tweak or new technology, whether it is in the type of auto glass used or the very functionalities of the vehicle. The winner of the LA Auto Show Design Challenge this year is going to be announced on the 17th of this month, and car enthusiasts (as well as film-lovers) are already speculating heavily on which vehicle design shall take the prize.
An invitation to a party at a friend’s house turns sour when your car gets stuck in winter weather. Your plans are ruined until you remember to call Family Tire and Service in Grapevine. With more than 40 years of experience in all aspects of auto repair, Family Tire is prepared to handle everything that your car needs. Transmission work is a specialty, and they know more about tires than anyone in the business.
Your car is just as susceptible to winter weather as you are. Cars are not always designed to brave the cold, and many times will break down in severe weather. Not enough coolant, a dying battery, or a punctured tire can all be disasters you face on a cold and dark night. But you don’t have to fear, because Family Tire will be there for you. All you need to do is call for roadside assistance.
Family Tire is a Grapevine auto repair shop that specializes in all aspects of vehicle repair. Our team can handle brakes, transmissions, and even engine tune-ups. We can even perform tire replacement in the event that your tires are not safe enough for icy roads. No matter your issue, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be taken care of when you call our team.
The experts at Family Tire have a lot of respect for the tires on your car. We know they’re the one thing keeping you and your family safe on the road. If you find yourself stuck in the middle of the cold, call our team for roadside assistance. Put 817-488-5520 in your phone for easy access to Family Tire and Service.
“My experience as a first time car buyer at Frank Myers this weekend was awesome. I’m not saying it because I was able to get a car the overall customer care was incredible! When I first came into the dealership I will be honest I was afraid! Because I got so many “No’s and Denies” in the past because of my lack of credit establishment. So I stepped out on faith and set an appointment to come in. Before purchase I owned an old beat up ’95 Honda Accord. With no money in my pocket and payday days away I gave it a try. My sales representative was good ol’ Micheal Wagner. He’s very eager to make stuff happen even if it kills him. He’s friendly and tries his very best to satisfy. After had given all my info results came back I needed a co-signer or thousands down. So I called up my dad. He came, but was a little discouraged because his credit wasn’t in good shape either. So we gave it a try. With him too…nothing. So with a smile on my face I vowed to save and come back. Once I got on the other side of town Wagner called me back and had a deal!!! Before I knew it u was signing off on a 2013 Toyota Corolla!!! And I drove off that day!!! I don’t force religion on nobody but God has a way of turning things around and blessing you when you’re humble. And that I was! And everyday I get in my car I thank him!!! I also thank the Frank Myers crew and my father because without them none of it would be possible!” – Actual Frank Myers Auto Mxxx Customer Review From May 28, 2014
On Friday, April 11th, the Believe and Achieve Foundation held a “Pep Rally at the Y” at the Oscar Lasco YMCA Youth Program Center in West Chester, PA.…
Here at All Tech Auto Repair we will preform an inspection on a new or used vehicle before you purchase it we will do the first one for free. Lately there have been a few customers coming in with cars they have just purchased with a check engine light on or another issue, we can check all of that out before you purchase the car and let you know what kind of money you will be putting into it or if you are getting a great car. We print out reliability reports and a detailed list of anything the car needs, we will arm you with all the information you need before you buy the car. Being well informed when buying a car can help with the stress of finding the right car and prevent the headache of problems with your car just after you have purchased it.
Call us up and schedule an appointment for us to take a look at your potential vehicle.
Here at All Tech Auto Repair we will preform an inspection on a new or used vehicle before you purchase it we will do the first one for free. Lately there have been a few customers coming in with cars they have just purchased with a check engine light on or another issue, we can check all of that out before you purchase the car and let you know what kind of money you will be putting into it or if you are getting a great car. We print out reliability reports and a detailed list of anything the car needs, we will arm you with all the information you need before you buy the car. Being well informed when buying a car can help with the stress of finding the right car and prevent the headache of problems with your car just after you have purchased it.
Call us up and schedule an appointment for us to take a look at your potential vehicle.
Wheel alignment is often overlooked by busy Burgaw and Leland motorists until serious tire damage has been done. One wheel can be knocked out of alignment by hitting a curb or pothole on a Wilmington highway or surface street.
When a vehicle’s out of alignment, one or more of the wheels does not track true and pulls against the others. This causes several serious problems. First off, the tires will wear out faster and will need to be replaced prematurely. It could also lead to expensive sedans suspension problems.
But the big issue for Burgaw, Leland, and Wilmington motorists is safety. When your sedans wheels are out of alignment, the vehicle will pull to one side, which could lead to an accident. When you’re out of alignment, you should have it taken care of right away at Atlantic Car Care in Wilmington.
When undergoing an alignment service at Atlantic Car Care, your sedans is put on an alignment rack where the tires, steering and suspension parts are checked for damage. Then the alignment is charted and checked against the factory settings.
Precision adjustments are made to bring the wheels back into alignment. This gets all four wheels going in exactly the same direction.
Leland motorists should be aware of the signs of alignment problems. These include the car pulling to one side. Also, the steering wheel may not be centered when you’re going straight. If you see the edges of one or more tires rapidly wearing down, you should have your Wilmington service center look it over. If you’ve been in an auto accident in North Carolina that involved a wheel, you should get your alignment checked.
Obviously, a big jolt can seriously knock things out of alignment, but Burgaw drivers also need to understand that a series of smaller ones can add up.
That’s why car makers recommend periodic alignment checks. If your sedans owner’s manual doesn’t specify, once a year might be appropriate. Or check with Mike Moore or your service advisor at Atlantic Car Care in Wilmington.
One thing’s for sure: the cost of the alignment at Atlantic Car Care is cheaper for Burgaw motorists than having to buy a couple of new tires because of neglect.
As we know, clogged arteries are a health risk for many people. Doctors will usually take immediate action to restore the flow of blood through the body. It may seem an odd comparison, but the same principle applies to the passage ways for the oil that flows through your vehicle's engine. Just as a poor diet and too little exercise cause deposits of cholesterol to block our arteries, contaminated oil can gum up the engine of our vehicles. These oil deposits can be prevented by keeping up with regular oil changes. Many auto shops offer oil change coupons to keep your vehicle healthy.
A recent report stated that over 80 percent of the vehicles on our Wilmington North Carolina roads have one or more service or repair that’s needed, but hasn’t been taken care of. Now that’s a lot of undone service. That translates into something over 160 million vehicles in the U.S. alone. Some of the neglected items are minor. Others are serious safety concerns.
There are several reasons why we hesitate to take care of recommended services; especially services that our Wilmington North Carolina automotive advisor recommends when we’re in for something else, like an oil change.
The first issue boils down to comfort with car care. We don’t always feel we know enough to make good decisions. Some of that can be attributed to the fact that vehicles are so reliable these days. They almost become an appliance. Of course you love your sedans, but if you don’t have to worry about it breaking down all the time, you’re not forced to think as much about preventive maintenance.
Perhaps your dad knew a lot about cars and always made sure they were taken care of. He was very comfortable dealing with his local Wilmington North Carolina service advisor. People who don’t know as much about cars hesitate to ask questions because they don’t want to look ignorant.
It’s human nature. But, there’s so much to know in this world, we can’t all be experts in everything. So we specialize. It’s very important to ask questions of any specialist, whether it’s your doctor, financial advisor or your automotive technician in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Your auto technician at Atlantic Car Care wants your questions. We want you to understand the recommendation and why it needs to be done.
That brings us to the next issue; people say that they don’t always know if they really need the service or if they are just being sold something.
At the heart, it speaks to trust. Do you trust your Wilmington service center and your service advisor? Trust has to be earned and that takes time and experience. But you can shortcut the process when you realize that most of the recommendations are based on manufacturer’s maintenance schedules.
In other words, “you don’t have to trust me, you can trust your owner’s manual”.
Your Wilmington service center has computer databases that contain the manufacturer’s recommendations for almost all vehicles, so they don’t need to rummage through your glove box to look for your owner’s manual to know what to do.
Basically, the engineers who designed the car say “here’s when you need to have it serviced”. That’s who makes the recommendation, not the technician. He’s just reminding you.
Now you do need to trust your Wilmington technician’s experience and judgment from time to time. When he inspects your vehicle, he may find problems or concerns. He will explain things so that you can prioritize the concern and make a good decision about whether or not to have something done.
That brings us to the third issue; money. Often the concern is about spending the money to take care of a recommended service. Our money has many places it needs to go. And we have another list of places we want it to go. Auto maintenance isn’t usually on either of those lists.
Look, everyone who works at Atlantic Car Care has a family budget, too. They can relate. Maybe a little look behind the scenes would be helpful.
Service centers like Atlantic Car Care invest heavily in training, diagnostic equipment and tools so that they can make repairs and perform services as efficiently as possible. And like any other business, they have labor costs, insurance, rent, utilities, shop and office supplies, taxes and so on.
We work hard to make sure that we diagnose the problem correctly and fix it right the first time. That’s the only way we can maintain our reputation and remain in business. If we’re not satisfying our customers and providing a good value, you won’t come back and the service center won’t be around for long.
When there is a real budget concern, your Wilmington service center can help you prioritize the work that needs to be done and come up with a plan for taking care of it that works within your budget.
Let’s say you have a serious problem with your brakes. That’s a safety concern so a technician can’t ethically say, well, let’s put that off for a couple of months. What they can do is take care of the brakes now and address the cabin air filter or transmission service next month.
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 
It’s important to keep your tires properly aligned because doing so extends tire life, preserves braking stability, promotes better handling, and keeps your ride smooth. Knowing what the signs of a misaligned car will help you avoid damage to your tires and expensive repairs. Family Tire & Service encourages you to watch for these indicators that your car needs to be aligned.
“My experience as a first time car buyer at 