Why Used Cars Are More in Demand These Days

by Ian Fuller

The Economy isn’t looking pretty – and it’s probably going to stay that way for a very long time, unless a miracle happens. This is just one of the many reasons why people are starting to find ways to minimize costs. Case in point: buying cars. Used cars are now in highly in demand because it is more affordable than a brand new car. Instead of shelling out a huge sum of money for a brand new car, you can opt for choosing a used car that is in great quality instead.

A used or “pre-loved” car is a great option if you’re looking for a good deal. These cars are highly affordable, and the best thing about it is that you can actually cut out a deal with the seller – unlike when you buy a brand new car, you would always pay for its actual selling price (which is very expensive). The writing on the wall is pretty obvious, but below are the main points why you’re better off going with a used car and why they are greatly in demand these days.

Affordability

It can’t be denied that a pre-owned car will cost much cheaper than a brand new one. With practicality and the tough economy in the mix, it’s just a wiser choice to go for the cheaper option. Cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean worse. It’s just a matter of finding a better deal for you which will allow you to save more money for other purposes.

Just as Good, If not Better!

When we talk about used vehicles, there’s a certain connotation that it may not be as good as a brand new one because of the mileage and the fact that it’s been used for quite some time already. That can be remedied though by finding a car that not only looks physically good, but also one with just average or above average mileage on it.
There are some cases where a used car, which is of a better model, is much better than a brand new car, with an inferior model. You can get a better model for a much cheaper price, than going for a brand new car (old model), which costs a fortune!

Accessibility and Practicality

There are a lot of people who are selling their pre-loved vehicles. You can see ads online, or even flyers on the streets, whether its a used car from JBA Kia or a Toyota Camry – basically, there’s never a shortage of used cars for sale. This means that you have easier access to it because you can schedule a visit or an ocular anytime you prefer. You can check which car fits you, and then you can cut out a deal with the seller.

Being practical is also the name of the game these days. Used cars are cheaper, which means it’s easier to apply for a loan to aid you in paying for it. Simply put – buying a used car is a more practical and wiser choice than investing on a brand new car.

The pros of choosing to buy a used car does not mean that you should never buy a brand new car – this just shows you that there is a more affordable and practical option open for you. These are the same reasons why used cars are more in demand these days. Everyone is starting to be smarter with their decisions.

Source: http://www.autoscraze.com/why-used-cars-are-more-in-demand-these-days.html

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Recommended San Diego Service Intervals

Everyone in San Diego California knows we’re supposed to go to the dentist twice a year. We get our teeth cleaned and have a thorough dental inspection. Once a year, we get x-rays to look for problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye. When the dentist is done, he tells us what he’s found – “Everything’s fine, see you in six months.” Or “You’ve got a small cavity starting, let’s schedule an appointment to take care of it.” By the time you leave, you have a plan for addressing any necessary repairs.

This system works so much better than waiting for a painful problem before going into the dentist. Small problems are fixed before they turn into big problems. And you avoid those huge bills.

If we buy into this way of handling our dental care, why do we resist so much when facing the same system for our car care?

Aero Auto Repair
9756 Aero Drive
San Diego, California 92123
858-309-4274

Following the manufacturer’s recommended intervals can be confusing. First there are recommendations for so many things: oil changes, transmission, coolant, air conditioning, power steering, brakes, fuel system, filters, belts, hoses, alignment, rotation, balancing …you get the point.

Every item has a recommended interval and it’s hard to keep it all straight – even if you’re part of the 1% of the population that reads your owners’ manual in San Diego California.

And if you have more than one car or Nissan Z, the complexity is multiplied. You’d need a computer to keep track of everything. Well, that’s how your San Diego service center does it. They subscribe to automotive databases that have your vehicle’s recommended intervals. You may have wondered how they know what else to recommend when you take your car in for an oil change – it’s all in the computer.

Well, it’s not all in the computer. There are other variables that can’t be accounted for in the schedule. Things like the weather conditions, altitude, and where and how you drive when you are out in our San Diego California area need to be taken into account. Talk about these things with your service advisor at Aero Auto Repair and you may decide that the severe service schedule in your owner’s manual is more appropriate.

Since anything that’s not highway driving in moderate weather is considered severe, most of us do at least some of that around San Diego California and it should be taken into consideration.

Let’s take your basic oil change as an example – what issues are involved? The oil you put in your car is a blend of base oil and special additives. There are detergents to clean the inside of your engine and corrosion inhibitors. A good quality motor oil will not only lubricate your engine, it will help it stay clean inside and run cooler.

Now, these additives deplete with use and time. That’s why most maintenance recommendations include both a time and mileage element – like 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first.

It’s easy to think, “Gee, I’ve only driven 2,000 miles in the last 3 months. I can wait on that oil change.” But you need to remember that the inside of your engine is a harsh environment. The oil is contaminated with combustion by-products that starts degrading its effectiveness even when it’s just sitting there.

A lot of people in San Diego California don’t realize the harm that can be done by just skipping a single oil change. There are a lot of metal parts moving around in your engine. Small bits of metal wear off and are floating around in your oil. They can be carried to more delicate areas of the engine where they cause damage. Your oil filter is designed to trap metal particles and other dirt, but if it’s clogged up because you haven’t changed it, it can’t trap any more.

Oil sludge is another problem. Sludge is oil that has turned to a gunky jelly – think ‘Vaseline’. Obviously, sludge doesn’t lubricate. It can also clog small oil passages so that all the parts don’t get properly protected by the oil. That’ll lead to premature wear.

If you’ve missed some oil changes, don’t despair. Just talk with your service advisor at Aero Auto Repair. Fess up – you’ll feel better. And he can help you get back on track. Following recommended intervals is the key to keeping your car on the road and avoiding major repairs in San Diego California.

Take a look at the auto tips video in this post for more information.

Related Posts:

• Before You Leave San Diego, Get A Trip Inspection
• Risk of Extended Oil Change Intervals
• What To Do After You Buy a Used Vehicle in San Diego
• Service Intervals for High Mileage Vehicles in San Diego California
• Better Service – Better Economy

Source: http://www.myaeroauto.com/recommended-san-diego-service-intervals/

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Frank Myers Auto Presents: Do You Have Lucky Charms?

by Tracy E. Myers/Owner of Frank Myers Auto Maxx in Winston Salem, NC

Last week I was sitting at my kitchen table eating a bowl of Lucky Charms. If you’ve never enjoyed a bowl, they ARE magically delicious and not so nutritious. Regardless, the sugar gets me charged up before a super busy day of helping people at Frank Myers Auto Maxx.

As I stared down at those little marshmallow shapes, I started thinking about St. Patty’s Day, the “Luck of the Irish” and the green fun that would be taking place in a few days.

It also got me thinking about how some of my friends live and die by their personal lucky charms. In fact, I know one grown man who won’t go bowling without his lucky socks, EVER, but he’ll remain nameless of course. You know who you are, friend.

What about you? Do you have a lucky charm? Perhaps a rabbit foot or a four leaf clover?

Whatever the answer, most of us want more good luck to come our way so I say, let’s tip the scales in our favor!

Here are two things you can do right now to attract good luck into your life, without a charm or a bowl of cereal at your side . . .

HOW TO ATTRACT GOOD LUCK:

Know What You Want

Being focused on a goal is the first step to achieving it. So if you want good things to happen to you, you have to clearly know what those things are. Our mind is a powerful tool. People underestimate the power of the mind to make things happen. You can attract what you believe you will get. So go ahead and take some time to determine what you want; before long, you will be surprised at how lucky you are!

Fill Your Mind & Body With Positive Input

Successful people (aka lucky people) continually seek out knowledge and ways to improve themselves. Be very purposeful with how you spend your time. Read. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Cut down on negative influences and watch how fast this positive input transforms your everyday life.

Lucky people are also healthy people. So take charge of your health and mental state now. Sleep more, eat less, smile, expect to have a good day, and believe that good things are on their way to you.

As a side note, I would probably have better luck with my health later in life if I ate an apple a day instead of Lucky Charms cereal.

Interesting Factoid:

“The percentage of Lucky Charms consumers who are adults has risen to 45%, said Greg Pearson, the brand’s marketing manager. As a result, the brand posted its best volume year ever in fiscal 2012, according to General Mills. Overall, Lucky Charms is now the seventh-largest cold cereal brand, with sales up 5.64% to $252.6 million in the 52 weeks ending Oct. 7, outpacing category-wide growth of 0.83%.”

 

 

 

 

Source: http://www.winstonsalemusedcars.com/articles/lucky-charms/

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Hurricane Sandy Help From NC Man

Will Hall, commonly known as Ambassador Of Smiles for Frank Myers Auto Maxx in Winston Salem, saw Kevin Blanchard on his local tv news. Kevin was talking about how he wanted to reach out to the people affected by Hurricane Sandy and assist them. The story moved Will so much that he decided to he had to find Kevin, or as Will jokingly put it, “hunt him down.”

Frank Myers Auto Team Member Searches For Do-Gooder

Will didn’t have to look far to find Kevin. As luck would have it, Kevin’s office at Labor Finders Of Winston Salem was right around the corner from the dealership. Will got Kevin on the phone and, after a brief conversation, told him that the dealership wanted to assist in getting the message out to other people in the surrounding Triad communities. 

The time was arranged for a brief interview to be recorded at Kevin’s office at Labor Finders of Winston Salem. The video was going to used to help Will promote the Hurricane Sandy Relief Project. The brief  interview is above and everyone is encouraged to watch it. 

How Can YOU Help The Hurricane Sandy Project?

Donations consisting of bottle water, non-perishable food items, clothes (including underwear and socks), warm blankets and toiletries to assist the folks affected by Hurricane Sandy. Your help is needed so please call Kevin directly at (704) 701-1629. He will personally be delivering the items and needs them no later than November 21st. 

Frank Myers Auto Maxx Helps The Project

Will was so deeply moved by Kevin’s story and unselfish willingness to help others, that they have committed to join in on this incredible mission. Tomorrow, The Frank Myers Auto Maxx Team will be delivering $500 worth of items directly to Kevin at Labor Finders Of Winston Salem. Tracy Myers, the owner of the Winston Salem used car dealership, encourages ALL small business owners to join them in making a difference.

“It’s so easy to take everyday luxuries like electricity and clean water for granted”, said Myers. “However, just watching the news for 5 minutes and seeing the desperation on the peoples faces will make you realize how fortunate those of us not is Sandy’s path were. The least we could do is help…if not financially with a contribution, then with prayer.”

Ironic Ending

During Will’s interview, he discovered that Kevin was also a satisfied Frank Myers Auto Maxx Family Member! “That’s the way it is supposed to work”, said Hall. “Kevin supported a locally owned car dealership by buying a car. Then I saw Kevin on TV talking about his project, I was moved and reached out to see how the Frank Myers Team could help. During the process, I found out that Kevin was a member of the Frank Myers Family of Customers. Now the dealership is helping the cause with the love traveling all the way to New York! It’s a win-win in the purest definition of the term.”

 

Source: http://www.winstonsalemusedcars.com/articles/hurricanesandyrelieffromnc/

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Differential Service At Atlantic Car Care: Vive ala Difference

Every sedans on North Carolina freeways has a differential, and it is critical to the proper operation of the vehicle, but most Wilmington car owners don’t have a clue what it is.

The differential compensates for differing wheel speeds. For example, when you turn, the inside tire on the turn travels a much shorter distance than the outside wheel. So the inside wheel of the sedans must move at a slower speed than the outside wheel. Without a differential, the wheels would hop and scrape while turning.

Have you ever seen the large bugle-shaped object in the middle of the rear axle of a truck? That’s the differential. In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is located on the back axle. Four-wheel drive vehicles and SUV’s have differentials on both the front and the rear axle.

You might expect that the differential is located on the front axle of a front-wheel drive vehicle. You’d be right. But the differential is called a transaxle on a front-wheel drive vehicle because its location allows it to be combined with the transmission.

In an all-wheel drive vehicle, an additional differential or transfer case is located between the front and rear axles. Differentials are strong: They have to be because of the critical job they do. But those tough parts need proper lubrication. You don’t want your differential to seize up. That results in pricey damage to your sedans.

So you need to have your sedans differential serviced regularly. It’s not a complicated job. At Atlantic Car Care in Wilmington we’ve been servicing differentials for 4.5 years. The used lubricating fluid is simply drained and then replaced. Some vehicles require specific additives in the differential fluid; your Wilmington service center will ensure you are getting what your sedans needs.

The intervals in time or mileage for servicing your differential vary greatly from vehicle to vehicle. Check with your owner’s manual or Atlantic Car Care to find out how often your sedans differential needs to be serviced.

Generally, however, front-wheel drive vehicles need their differential serviced more often than rear-wheel drive vehicles. Also, if you spend a lot of time off-road or on Wilmington area dirt or gravel roads, or if you drive through water, you will need to service your differential more often than the standard recommendation – check with your Honest Atlantic Car Care service specialist.

Preventive maintenance for your differential is good car care that can spare you pricey repair bills. Knowing what your differential is and how it operates is critical and will help you understand why this is good auto advice. Remember, take care of your sedans, and it will take care of you.

Source: http://www.atlanticcarcare.com/differential-service/differential-service-at-atlantic-car-care-vive-ala-difference

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Brake Rotors turning up the heat for a Brake Replacement?

What causes your car to actually come to a stop? To put it simply, the action of stepping on the brake pedal builds up energy by depressing on the throttle. This energy is converted into friction and heat, which in turns slows, and then will bring your vehicle to a complete stop—that is, if everything is in good working order. This process is repeated without any thought from you hundreds of times every time you head down the road. As this action is consistently repeated, the friction and heat created by the brake pads clamping down on the brake rotors actually wears down their metal surface. As time goes on, problems arise, possibly leading to a costly brake replacement.

What's your combination—too thin or too hot?

Source: http://www.excelautoandtire.com/tips-blog/brake-rotors-turning-up-the-heat-for-a-brake-replacement

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Make Your Battery Last

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.

Related Posts:

• Aero Auto Repair On Your Serpentine Belt
• What To Do After You Buy a Used Vehicle in San Diego
• What To Do After You Buy a Used Vehicle in San Diego
• San Diego California Winter Prep Service For Your Auto
• San Diego Safety Systems: Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Source: http://www.myaeroauto.com/make-your-battery-last/

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What’s Car Talk’s Second Opinion? Joe Might Be Able to Skip the New Engine!

• Location: Boston, MA
• The Opinion: New Engine
• The Boat Payment: $5,000
• The Savings: $1,400

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.

Source: http://www.cartalksecondopinion.com/blog/2012/02/08/whats-car-talks-second-opinion-joe-might-be-able-to-skip-the-new-engine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=whats-car-talks-second-opinion-joe-might-be-able-to-skip-the-new-engine

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Gun Used to Break Auto Glass in Utah New Year’s Eve Rescue

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

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/auto-glass/gun-used-to-break-auto-glass-in-utah-new-years-eve-rescue/466/

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Shanghai 2013 Launches MINI

John Cooper Works models as MINI are getting increasingly popular in China. MINI’s , the small/compact segment celebrates its Chinese premiere and one will see five models getting ready for the 15th Shanghai International Automobile Industry. These ultra-sporty cars with chassis and powertrain technology that is based on racing expertise stand apart from the crowd. These five models are instantly recognizable thanks to the special character as well as those advanced exterior and interior design features.

The range of models comprise of MINI Clubman, MINI John Cooper, MINI Countryman, MINI Coupé and MINI Paceman. Each of these models carries their own unique style and character as well as carries their own DNA for racing. One can feel the performance power of these MINI’s at their finger tips when they slide behind the steering. There is a fast rising demand among progressive for these time-honored British brand’s cars. Apart from the individual style and advanced technology, one gets all the driving fun too. More than 15,500 MINI cars were sold in China in 2012. It seems the trail of success is sure to continue this year too with the John Cooper Works models and MINI Paceman.

Motivated by motor sport, for its design and performance, each of these models carries the John Cooper Works badge. John Cooper name has always surfaced for the brand for more than fifty years now, symbolizing the sporting heritage of the brand. It was only the MINI that defines astonishing success in offering a superior driving fun and success in motor sport performance on the roads. You will love that full-blooded race feeling, those precise handling properties and the supreme performance, that is only experienced in a MINI. The unique character in these models is made of precisely configured chassis, an aerodynamic kit, extremely powerful brakes as well as modified exterior and interior.

Source: http://www.autoscraze.com/shanghai-2013-launches-mini.html

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Winter Auto Maintenance — Coolant Service

It’s wintertime, so let’s talk about coolant service. Changing the antifreeze fluids in your radiator is especially important. Most of us are aware that antifreeze keeps your engine from freezing and corroding, but did you know that the same fluid can corrode your engine if you leave it in too long?

Over a significant period of time, the static charge of the engine makes the fluid acidic and it eats up the aluminum pipes, making your engine vulnerable to major disfunction… and that’s not good! Make sure your vehicle is in top operating condition this winter season when you travel around the Monterey Peninsula, across the state, or up to the skiing areas.

Call today to schedule a coolant service and replacement at our 26,000 square foot facility, located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940.

Mechanical — 831-373-1534
Body Shop — 831-373-1535

Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/winter-auto-maintenance-coolant-service/

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Engine Rebuild? What are your Choices?

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.

What will it Cost?

Source: http://www.elkrivertireandauto.com/tips-blog/engine-rebuild-what-are-your-choices

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Transmission Fluid Change: An important Transmission Repair

A transmission fluid change, sometimes called a transmission flush, should be part of your regular vehicle maintenance, just like an oil change or replacing the coolant in your radiator. Regular service can help you avoid costly transmission repair. Generally, you should have a service every 24,000 miles, or every two years. Some manufactures recommend longer service intervals like 50,000 or 100,000 miles. However, these intervals may exceed any opportunity for you to identify problems early on so you can avoid minor problems turning into a major transmission repair.

Transmission Fluid Change, or Transmission Flush?

Source: http://www.excelautoandtire.com/tips-blog/transmission-fluid-change-an-important-transmission-repair

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Happy Earth Day!

Today is April 22, 2013, and we wish you a Happy Earth Day. What are some of the things you can do with your car, truck, van, or SUV to be friendly to the environment? Here are six tips that you can use to help save fuel, keep our air cleaner, and help out Mother Nature:

Reduce your carbon footprint by leaving your car at home twice a week. Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year.

Work from home. You’ll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion – and save money.

Don’t let your vehicle idle. The exhaust from cars, buses, trucks, and work vehicles can pollute air in and around the vehicle, and can enter school buildings through air intakes, doors, and open windows.

If you’re not already driving a hybrid, electric or biodiesel vehicle, consider looking into one. Green power produces less carbon emissions, reduces air pollution, and helps protect against future costs or scarcity of fossil fuels.

Ride the MST Jazz bus around Monterey and Seaside. Use public transportation, carpool, walk, or bike whenever possible to reduce air pollution and save on fuel costs.

Proper maintenance reduces waste! Keep your vehicles in good working order and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for service and maintenance.

If you are ready to make an appointment with Robert’s Auto Repair, contact us today. You’ll be glad you did!

Mechanical — 831-373-1534
Body Shop — 831-373-1535

Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/happy-earth-day/

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Toyota Camry Collision Repair – Before and After

Check out this “Before and After” Collision Repair photo of a Toyota Camry that was involved in a small traffic accident in Chester County, PA. From fixing repairing the body damage in our shop to making it “shine” in our paint department, our team puts 100% into every car they touch.

The post Toyota Camry Collision Repair – Before and After appeared first on Grand Sport Auto Body.

Source: http://www.grandsportautobody.com/blog/toyota-camry-collision-repair-before-after/

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Transmission Repair: Don’t forget a Transmission Fluid Change

A transmission fluid change should be part of your regular vehicle maintenance, just like an oil change or replacing the coolant in your radiator. Regular service can help you avoid costly transmission repair. It is generally recommended to have a service every 24,000 miles, or at least every two years. However, some manufacturers may recommend longer service intervals like 50,000 or 100,000 miles. These longer service intervals may not give you the opportunity to identify minor problems early enough to avoid them turning into a major transmission repair.

Source: http://www.elkrivertireandauto.com/tips-blog/transmission-repair-dont-forget-a-transmission-fluid-change

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What’s Car Talk’s Second Opinion? Joe Might Be Able to Skip the New Engine!

• Location: Boston, MA
• The Opinion: New Engine
• The Boat Payment: $5,000
• The Savings: $1,400

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.

Source: http://www.cartalksecondopinion.com/blog/2012/02/08/whats-car-talks-second-opinion-joe-might-be-able-to-skip-the-new-engine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=whats-car-talks-second-opinion-joe-might-be-able-to-skip-the-new-engine

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S. California Auto Glass Repair Shop Offers Discount for Services During Holiday Season

A South California auto glass repair shop, PG Auto Glass, has just announced that it is going to be making available a discount to customers this holiday season in order to ease the financial burden that most people go through during this time.  As pockets are emptied by Christmas gift expenses, holiday party costs and the like, people do end up being a little lighter in the pocketbook than they were before Christmastime, which PG Auto Glass representatives say may have negative results on the necessary maintenance work people need to do to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape.  Hence, the company is offering a 10% discount on its services this season, in the true spirit of giving.

The auto glass repair shop’s discount can be seen on its website, where a coupon has been put up by the company for customers interested in taking advantage of the promo.  This is actually quite a good idea, not just for the customers but also for the company.  Recent forays by many windshield repair and replacement stores in coupon as well as groupon promotions indicate that consumers are more enthusiastic than ever about taking on coupon discount schemes.  Experts say this is most likely because of the recession affecting people’s perceptions as well as their pockets, where consumers are becoming more and more sensitive to discount possibilities and are quicker to respond to discount offerings from companies because of the clear potential to save money that way.

As such, a lot of companies in the auto glass repair and replacement industry—as well as other industries, as a matter of fact—have been putting up coupons and groupons of late, trying to entice customers.  For the most part, it seems to be successful, according to the reports of most of the companies trying it out.  PG Auto Glass’s 10% discount scheme shall be likely to see good rewards for the company, especially as the new year comes ever closer.

A new year’s approach might seem unrelated at first to the question of whether or not an auto glass repair company’s bid to draw in customers with a discount on services can work, but it may actually be closely linked to it.  One thing that the approach of New Year’s Day always does to people is bring out a tendency to fix or spruce up things that are already run down or which need to be repaired to some extent, in an effort to make a fresh start for the new year.  As a result, people’s desire to actually get their old and broken car glass repaired is more likely to be high, and only a little more nudging—such as a coupon discount from a company—may be required to draw out the desired reaction.

For more information please visit Termite Control in Tempe or Termite Control in Glendale

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/art/s-california-auto-glass-repair-shop-offers-discount-for-services-during-holiday-season/457/

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Know Your Brakes

Grinding, Squealing, Pulsing most people know these to be signs that their brakes aren’t working properly however some do not.

There are a number of reasons you could be having these symptoms in your car such as worn brake pads, improper size, worn rotors, even dust in your brake system can cause these sounds to occur.

There are different kinds of braking systems first off there is disk,  second there is drum. The main components of Disk Brakes  are brake pads, rotor, and caliper.There is also Drum Brakes that consist of brake drums and brake shoes and wheel cylinder.

In addition to the sound symptoms you may have additional symptoms or a different symptom. Pedal vibration, brake grabbing or dragging, soft or spongy braking are mechanical signs of your brakes wearing.

Having brakes that are not in proper working order is a safety risk for you and others if you are having any of these symptoms you should get your brakes inspected. It is also suggested to have your brakes checked every two years, even if none of these symptoms present.

All Tech Auto Repair will perform a free brake inspection for you and we guarantee our work with a life time warranty. We perform a brake inspection, make sure  your brake fluid is full, and give you a quote on exactly what you need.

The post Know Your Brakes appeared first on Nampa Auto Repair & Oil Change Specialist: All Tech Auto Repair.

Source: http://www.alltechautorepair.net/know-your-brakes/

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Boyd Expands Collision Auto Glass Repair and Body Repair Services in Florida with MRC Acquisition

The Boyd Group has finally completed its attainment of Master Collision Repair, a bodyworks and auto glass repair company in Florida.  The Boyd Group originally announced that it was in the process of adding Master Collision Repair to its assets in December 21 of last year, and the Group announced just this week that it had finished the entire acquisition process, immediately adding the new asset to its cash flow sources.  The announcement marks a significant expansion for Boyd’s auto repair services, especially given that it adds no fewer than 8 fresh facilities to its list of service centers in the United States.

The acquisition of the Florida-based auto glass repair and body repair works business was apparently completed for a price of anywhere between $11.5M and $12M.  The acting president as well as CEO of the Boyd Group, Brock Bulbuck, spoke of the new asset as an important one in that it was raising Boyd’s flag in the Florida area, where the company had yet to gain significant presence.  With the acquisition of MRC, that is now remedied.

The Boyd Group has been steady in its growth for the past few years, and has chosen, unlike another industry giant, Safelite AutoGlass, to focus specifically on collision repair instead of exclusively on auto glass repair.  The difference between the two specialisations is fairly clear to those in the trade: for reference, collision repair covers services for repairing or replacing materials or parts of the car that may have sustained damage one way or another, and this includes all parts of the car, from the windows to the tires; auto glass repair, on the other hand, focuses exclusively on damage that has been dealt to the glass parts of a vehicle, which typically means the windows and windshield but may also include, on occasion the headlamps, mirrors (side and rear), and the like.

Boyd started out in 1990 and has since grown to be one of the largest fleet operators in the US, and it runs several brands in both North America and Canada for collision repair.  Among these brands under the Group are Boyd Autobody and Glass, Gerber Collision & Glass, and Cars Collision Center.  Besides that, it now has the Master Collision Repair brand under its leadership.  As for Master Collision Repair, it was previously a family-owned company specializing in both auto glass repair and auto body repair.  The local business has had a history spanning at least four decades in the area, giving it a firm and established reputation with the residents.  It is also a BBB-accredited business, and one that started from a single family-run store in the Tampa Bay locale.

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/green/boyd-expands-collision-auto-glass-repair-and-body-repair-services-in-florida-with-mrc-acquisition/468/

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