Auto Repair Shops Adopt Environmentally Responsible Practices

It's taken a long time to realize that some of the things that we humans did in the past are not the best practices for a healthy environment. Most everyone is now aware that it is important to include environmentally friendly practices in all that we do. This is as true for auto repair shops as it is for our households.

How can an auto repair shop reduce the negative impact on the environment?

Here are some good practices that an auto shop can adopt:

Recycle
Recycling antifreeze, oils, lubricants, air conditioning refrigerant, tires, oil filters are pretty much obvious and often required by law, but what about cardboard, paper, plastics, metal, fluorescent bulbs, glass and other objects so easy to just dump into the garbage bin? It takes a bit of time to sort everything, but if you have a system set up, then it only takes a few minutes every day.

Return Centre
In addition to recycling your own shop use products, become a return centre for items such as used automotive lubricating oils, filters, antifreeze, used plastic oil and antifreeze containers and all types of batteries. In our shop we gladly accept liquids up to 20 Litres maximum, in sealed containers during business hours. It just makes good sense and provides convenience to customer who may otherwise have to go out of their way to get rid of these items.

Recycled Oil
While we don't dispute the method or intention, we are not convinced it is a viable option for sophisticated modern engines like most cars have today. A better alternative is to have the waste oil removed by a government certified hauler to be consumed as fuel in large industrial plants. This gives the oil a new life and it is re-used in a responsible way.

Good Use of Recycled Products
Where it makes sense to use recycled products we do, for example recycled engine antifreeze and coolants where the process is up to standards of the original equipment manufacturer of the vehicle it is going to be used in. This is about two thirds of the coolant we use.

Automobiles
Let's face it, automobiles are mobile hazardous waste generators, even when they are sitting still. We have not found a way yet to achieve a near zero auto carbon footprint but it is our responsibility to reduce that negative impact as much as possible. That responsibility is shared by the car owner as much as it is by the shop that services that car. A car running in top shape does more than just reduce carbon emissions, a car service shop that adopts environmentally friendly practices contributes to a community's well being.

Tips To Choose Car Body And Paint Shop

When you find suddenly that you are in need of a body and paint shop on an immediate basis, you realize that you have several options and choosing one body shop from so many shops available becomes a real difficult task. There are several things which you need to consider when you are choosing and paint shop. The main reason being that if you make a wrong choice you will not only be risking your vehicle but you will also be wasting your hard earned money and time too. This is especially in case of those who use their vehicles everyday and need to have it in spic and span condition always. Here are some tips which shall help you to choose a body paint shop for your car - hope you find these tips really very useful.

Check out how long the body shop is in its existence and the type of customers it has served. This shall give you an idea whether the company will be able to undertake the job or not, so that you do not have to face any kind of problem later on.

It is better to choose a body shop which is located in a place which is well connected, so that you can get in touch with the representatives as soon as you feel the need to do so. If you choose a body shop in a remote place you might spend a lot of time traveling and your expenses will increase also.

You should also check more about the people who are working for such an auto body shop. You can find out more about the experience, expertise, skills and ability of the staff to complete your work. If you get to know about the staff of the company, it shall help you to understand, if you should actually rely on the staff of the shop. This is important because you might have to leave your car with such a body and paint shop and if you are not sure about the company; how you can you leave your expensive car with the company.

If you stay somewhere near Huntington Beach, you will find several companies in that area which offer the services of body repair and paint. In such a case, it might be really difficult for you to choose a body shop in Huntington Beach which offers the best services with courteous staff and reliable services. If you are looking for a body shop in Huntington Beach, it is recommended that you first make an online search to know about all those companies which offer the services of car body repair and paint. Once you get to know about all those companies, you can easily make a comparison of their features, services and price charged so that you are able to get the best deal. This shall help you to have an idea about the prevailing rates and features of these companies. This will be an assurance that you will not be cheated by your car body company and you will get true value for the money you choose to spend.

Interpreting Your Auto Motor Compression Tests

Auto cylinder compression tests and testing can be the simplest, easiest and overall quick evaluations of the condition of the motor in a vehicle that you can do. On top of that compression testing of an auto engine is fast, cheap and what might be called "noninvasive" that is you do not have to take apart half of the engine.

Yet many inexperienced and backyard mechanics often do not know the first thing about interpreting results of compression tests. They may know how to complete the full test - yet really are in the dark about what results mean.

First - take the time and effort to compare the compression readings with the car makers' specifications and specs. These can be obtained either from the manual, a source book, online at the auto manufacturers' website or as a last resort your neighborhood garage mechanic or dealership service department. Basically your readings should be within the tolerances allowed.

In the situation and event that your engine does show low levels and readings of compression. That is less than 100 psi (pounds per square inch) or alternatively high compression readings, then you can almost count on the eventuality internal engine repair work is probably necessary and most likely is around the corner. If the compression testing was done as standard workup in routine maintenance and you were considering an automotive motor tune-up, then it may well be a good use of time and your resources to lay that idea aside. Go work on another vehicle.

If the compression readings are low or uneven in any of the motors' cylinders, a mechanics tip is to add a tablespoon of engine oil through the spark plug openings of the affected cylinders and then recheck the compression. If the compression readings improve, then it is most likely the case that the cylinder valves are probably "sticking", seated poorly or alternatively burned. The experienced owner of a string of auto dealerships whose practical expertise in the auto and auto body shop industry states that in his experience valves are bad ten times more often than rings. If the compression is low in two adjacent cylinders, the cylinder head gaskets between these cylinders are mot likely blown. Alternatively high compression readings usually indicate a buildup of carbon deposits in the compression chambers of the cylinder of the engine.

Lastly when you have finished testing the compression, turn the ignition switch off and remove any instruments with which you have lodged or held the gas pedal in the open position. You now not only have completed the full compression testing but also are a much better situation to understand and comprehend the meaning and significance of results obtained.

Auto Body Repairs Can Help the Environment!

Being a responsible citizen can mean a wide variety of things. However there are more ways to help out than you think. One of the best ways to be a responsible citizen is to take care of the earth that we live on. We need to make sure that we try to preserve its resources, not pollute it or fill it up with trash. There are many different ways that we can help the environment some may come easily and others you may have not even thought of. One of the ways you can help the environment that you may not have thought of is auto body repairs.

By getting auto body repairs completed on your vehicle you can actually help the environment. When your vehicle needs repair and you opt to get it replaced instead all the broken material is sent to the dump to fill up the earth with trash. Also there are more materials needed which can add more debris to our dumps. When you get your auto body repaired they trained technician simply works with the existing materials, that way less unused material makes its way to the dump. This is a great way to reduce waste. You might be surprised what a highly trained professional auto reconditioning specialist can do to your existing car to get it looking great.

Also if you decided to repair your vehicle and getting it looking better with a few repairs and enhancements instead of trading it or dumping it for a new one there are less cars that will get smashed up and left at the dump as well.

When choosing to get an auto body repair or service for your vehicle make sure you choose an auto body shop that is making an effort to help the environment as well. There are many materials that can be recycled instead of sent to the dump to sit. Find an auto body shop that recycles materials that can be recycled. That way at least if they do have unused materials they can go to creating something new. Also some materials that they use may be harmful to the environment. Try to find an auto body shop that doesn't use harmful materials or that make a good effort to reduce their effects on the environment by containing them. This is a great solution for the environment and for your personally since repairs almost always cost less than replacements!

So, even if you are not a huge tree hugger it is important to care for our planet earth. After all we do live, breath, and eat here. We should want it to be a great place to live now and in the future. You can do your part by simply getting your vehicle's auto body repaired instead of replaced. Not only will you be helping the environment but you will be saving time and money as well. These are two things that no one can deny being concerned with today. So, find an auto body repair shop to work with in protecting our planet!

Car Repair - Stocking Your Garage For DIY Success

Car repair, there has been a huge trend of "do it yourself" in the last decade, and with good reason. When you do something for yourself you accomplish three goals. You earn the satisfaction of doing something on your own, you save money compared to using a professional, and you have more quality control over the job to ensure its done properly. Weather its home repair, simple legal work or car repair; doing it yourself usually makes sense. To determine if your DIY project is right for you, take the amount of money you plan to save and compare it to your normal hourly rate at your job. If it's cheaper to have a pro do it, then it usually makes sense to go ahead and let them do it. But if you determine that do it yourself car repair is right for you, you'll want to stock your garage with a few basic tools to aide you in your projects.

The first most basic tools needed for car repair can be found in a good mechanics tool set. These days, you can find a good tool set at a big box store for under $100. Or you can choose to go with a bit more expensive set and get a lifetime replacement guarantee. If any tool in the set ever breaks or rusts beyond use, simply bring it into the store for a no questions asked exchange. Most good mechanics tool sets will include a full range of metric and standard sockets and open-ended wrenches. Most also include an interchangeable screwdriver with several attachments for different uses. More advanced sets may include a spark plug socket as well as several socket extensions to get to hard to reach nuts or bolts. A good mechanics tools set is essential to perform the most basic car repair projects.

We all know cars need regular oil changes every three thousand mile or three months. So it only makes good sense to purchase a few oil change essentials to complete the task on your own. First off, a drain pan is essential to drain the oil under most cars. The height of some trucks will allow you to get away with a 5 gallon bucket, but the drip pan is still good because it has a spout to allow for proper disposal of the used oil. If you've ever changed your own oil, chances are you know how hard it can be to unscrew the oil filter from it mount. Some more expensive oil filter models have a nice rubber grip that allows for easy turning, but for how inexpensive they are, a cheap oil filter wrench is a great tool to have on hand. Last but not least, you'll want to have a funnel on hand to ensure your oil goes where it's supposed to. One 99-cent funnel can save you from having to buy a whole new quart of oil because you spilled half of it on the engine.

A few other good tools to have include a creeper, a multi meter, and a tension socket wrench. All are relatively inexpensive, but can assist you in saving big money over bringing your car to the shop.

By stocking your garage with just a few important and relatively inexpensive tools, you will be able to save lots of money by performing basic car repair on your own.

Automotive Restoration: A Frame-Off Body Repair of a 1960 Ferrari

This automotive restoration project began in June 2010, with the client's sights set on showing it at Pebble Beach. This 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Pininfaria Cabriolet (PF Cab) had been in storage for 30 years in Arizona before being purchased by the current owner. Ferraris during this time were hand built by Italian coach makers and the engines were also hand-built by Ferrari. The 250 GT series was built for the customer that wanted a street legal car that he could also take to the race track. Of course not everyone raced their Ferraris, some customers just wanted the awesome power and beautiful styling of the 250 GT. Pininfarina is still operating and still makes concept and prototype cars for major companies around the globe.

After the Ferrari 250 GT PF Cab was disassembled and media blasted, I set about repairing and reconstructing the body to its original factory state.

This client was particularly concerned about getting the rebuild perfectly symmetrical. I had an idea, born from my experience working in the prototype industry: to build a box with a measuring system to aid the build of the vehicle. The photos below are a brief taste of posts to follow.
The first part of this post covers a measuring device we designed and built specially for this Ferrari PF Cab and the second part explains how it was used to rebuild the tail light area.

The objective of the measuring box is to figure out if a car body was built square to the chassis and is symmetrical from side to side. Before delving into measuring the body, remember that this was a Ferrari hand built body from the 1960′s, so tight tolerances are not expected. The idea is that the Ferrari PF Cab body and chassis sit on a center line inside a 3-dimensional steel framed box. The perimeter of the box acts as a measuring datum so that measurements from the box to the Ferrari PF Cab can be taken on the left and right hand sides and then compared to check symmetry.

The 3-dimensional box is divided into 3 planes representing length, depth, and height. On each axis is 1/2″ machined holes spaced 200mm apart, these holes are locations for the measuring stations. A line runs down the center of the box and the center of the chassis is aligned with a custom stand to the body. The center line only runs length ways, as the body is only symmetrical in one direction. The body is divided into a grid, with the aid of a laser, and numbered to aid recording.

These were the findings of major significance for this Ferrari PF Cab:

1. the front right-hand headlight housing is 10mm further forward than the left-hand headlight

2. the body style line is 6mm higher on the right-hand side than the left-hand

3. the complete rear end of the car is kicked over to the right hand side 50mm from the rear of the doors to the back of the Ferrari. Not from accident/damage, just how the car was built.

4. the left-hand rear tail light housing peak leans inwards 8mm

After discussing the above findings with the client, the first issues to address was the left-hand tail light problem. Now we will show the step by step rebuild and fabrication of the light housing. Why rebuild this area? On first sight the sheet metal housing clearly looked as though the top was angled inwards and second, the housing was too big for the light bezel, which formed the appearance of a step. To be correct in appearance, the surface of the bezel should be level with the surface of the paint. As part of the 'measuring box' process, we recorded results showing the top of the housing was 5mm to the right of center. To fix these two problems it was most practical and cost efficient to make a completely new housing and then graft it into the fender.

Steps:
1. Slice away the original taillight housing from the car body.

2. Make a pattern off the original and cut a fresh piece of sheet metal to match.

3. Shape the new piece, using the old piece and the actual tail light until it fits perfectly.

4. TIG weld the new sections together.

5. Offer it up the car body, again adjusting until it fits perfectly. Cleco into place.

6. Check bottom, top, and sides against the measuring box for perfect squareness and symmetry.

7. TIG weld the new housing onto the Ferrari body.

8. Metal finish and then you are ready for paint!

Check my website for step-by-step photos of the measuring box and this process.

Buying a Franchise - Is An Auto Repair Franchise in Your Future?

If you've ever really thought about starting a business of your own, then you may have considered doing something that is an absolute necessity. This could include a gas station, convenience store, tax service, hair salon, and many other "essentials oriented" businesses. An auto repair franchise falls into the category of "absolute necessity" as well.

After fixing cars for a few decades, many expert mechanics realize they would rather own and run a business than spend the rest of their working lives under the hood of a car. Owning an auto repair franchise is one way of doing this, and is usually far more successful than opening an independent repair shop. In fact, an auto repair franchise can be much more lucrative than "turning a wrench" at a local auto dealer or repair shop.

When you consider buying an auto repair franchise, some household names will come to mind, but there are actually hundreds of different businesses within this franchise category.

Consider a car repair franchise or auto service franchise from this list like these:

AAMCO Transmissions, Inc., Carstar Automotive, Citgo Service Station, Cottman Transmissions, Eagle Transmission, Inc., Econo Lube N Tune, Glass Doctor, Grease Monkey, Jiffy Lube International, Inc., MAACO Enterprises, Inc., Meineke Car Care Centers, Midas International Corporation, Precision Tune Auto Care, Speedy Transmission Centers, The Master Mechanic, Tunex Automotive Specialists, Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Ziebart

If you are interested in an auto franchise for sale, then the best place to start is with a franchise for sale directory online or contact a franchise broker. This will let you find existing franchises that may be for sale in your area, which offer a faster route to success than starting a brand new location. When you are able to fix cars right the first time while providing world-class customer service, success in an auto repair franchise is practically guaranteed!

Rear View Mirror Fell Off - Rear View Mirror Tips & Mistakes

Installing a rear view mirror that has fallen is a simple job. It's important to know how a common mistake could break the windshield if this simple task is done improperly. It's very easy to glue the rear view mirror button upside down. I worked with someone years ago, that made this mistake. When he tried to remove the metal button from the windshield so it could be glued back on correctly the windshield was cracked! This simple job cost the company we worked for at the time, $350 to have a replacement windshield installed. Read on to find out what type of adhesive is recommended, the step by step instructions on how to secure the fallen mirror and what to do if the button was mistakenly glued on upside down.

Rear View Mirror Installation Tips (50 to 75 Degrees Fahrenheit)

1. Use a rear view mirror kit made specifically for bonding the rear view mirror back on (like Permatex Rearview Mirror Adhesive).


2. Separate the button from the rear view mirror. It is either held together with a screw or a spring retainer; the type without a screw will be pryed off with a screwdriver.


3. Mark the position where the mirror will be re-glued. Use a crayon or piece of paper tape on the outside of the windshield.


4. Scrape the old glue off of the inside of the windshield and the button. Clean the windshield and button with rubbing alcohol.


5. The activator vial has a separator built into it, squeeze the vial until the inner portion breaks, the two parts will mix and is ready for application.


6. Do not touch the surfaces with your fingers, apply the activator generously to the windshield and button. Allow to dry for 2 minutes.


7. Open the adhesive and apply ONE drop to the center of the button (apply to the correct side of the button). One drop only, more isn't better.


8. Immediately hold the button in place on the windshield being sure that the it is right side up. Hold firmly for 60 seconds.


9. Wait for fifteen minutes before mounting the mirror to the button.

If the button was glued on upside down or the wrong side to the glass, DO NOT try to remove it. Prying or heating to remove an incorrectly installed button may result in cracking the windshield! It's best if this happens to purchase a new button and bond it on top of the incorrectly installed button.

Car Repair - Sounds Your Vehicle Should NOT Be Making

A lot of people do not know as much as professional auto technicians do, regarding their vehicles. However, most everyone can seem to notice a particular sound that is out of the ordinary while driving. Most people spend so much time driving, that they are well accustomed to the sounds and performance. Our automobiles are like tuned musical instruments, so when one starts to behave differently or sound unusual, it generally means that an inspection or repair is due. Listed below are 5 car sounds that should definitely not be ignored when noticed.

1.) A low, grinding or scraping sound whenever your brake pedal is used usually means this part of your automobile needs some serious attention. Depending on the weather, a car's brake pads may squeak a little bit from being wet or cold. However, on a regular basis, these parts should not make any sound at all. If you notice a grinding noise emitting from your vehicle when you brake, then it is probably time for the pads to be replaced.

2.) Clicking noises coming from the engine generally means that you are running low on oil. Stop driving and allow your engine to cool a while before checking the oil level. Refill it to the proper level. If this particular sound persists after you have addressed it, then definitely stop driving. Further use could damage the engine quite a bit.

3.) If the exhaust system has a leak in it, it will emit a roaring sound that will become increasingly louder as you accelerate. This noise itself does not pose any immediate danger, but it most likely means that the exhaust system needs repair. Probably a new exhaust pipe or muffler is needed. Not attending to this can allow for carbon monoxide to leak into the passenger area and this can be deadly.

4.) Hissing sounds emitting from the engine area can be a sign of overheating or perhaps coolant leakage. Be sure to check the temperature gauge or if the temperature warning light is on, to detect overheating. If a sweet odor can be smelled, then antifreeze is leaking from the cooling system. Do not refill this until the vehicle has had proper time to cool. Also, simply refilling any fluid will not stop a leak. Be sure to replace the leaking part of your car.

5.) Is there a chirping sound coming from a wheel of your automobile when your drive? This may mean that an axel or wheel bearing is beginning to fail. This sound may fluctuate as you increase or decrease acceleration. Do not ignore this noise, as it may mean the wheel is on the verge of detaching or locking up, once a bearing fails. Your next stop should be at an auto shop if this is heard.

Overall, most of us may not be professionally trained to work and repair cars and most probably do not have the proper equipment to fix specific problems. When you are driving, if you happen to hear any sounds out of the ordinary coming from any parts of your vehicle, it is probably a good idea to have your automobile inspected by a car repair professional right away.

What Squeaking and Grinding Noises Mean for Your Brakes

You vehicle will have a recommended timeframe for when to service your brakes (check the owner's manual for details), but this isn't always reliable due to different conditions putting different levels of strain on your brakes. For instance, if you regularly drive in heavy traffic or hilly terrain your brakes will most likely need servicing more often than drivers who use their brakes less.

Luckily, all vehicles built since the 1970s make certain sounds at the first sign of brake problems, hundreds of miles before the problems become serious. These sounds vary by make and model, but always involve high-pitched squealing that turns into metallic grinding sounds over time.

High-pitched squeaking/chirping when not applying the brakes

Due to the way modern brakes are designed, an occasional squealing sound isn't always an indicator of brake problems - nowadays brake pads are often made from heavy, metallic disks that can produce a squealing sound sporadically, especially in smaller cars. However, if you start to hear a high-pitched sound when you're not depressing the brake pedal (and it ceases or changes in tone when you do apply the brakes), it is an indication that your brake pads are wearing very thin.

The source of this sound is known as a chirper, and it is designed to emit noise once the brake pad has worn down to about 30% of its original thickness. The chirper starts when you still have several thousand miles of wear left in your brake pads, so getting your brakes serviced at this stage is often a fast and cheap process - acting quickly on chirping noises will save you a lot of time and money.

Grinding noises when applying the brakes

A grinding sound is something you should aim to never hear from your brakes. This grinding is usually preceded by the squealing noise mentioned above - it is an indicator of rotor or drum damage caused by the brake pads fully wearing away, and the metal caliper directly scratching against the rotor. This is causing serious damage every time you apply the brake, and can heighten the risk of brake failure in difficult driving conditions that put strain on the brake components.

If you take your vehicle in for servicing as soon as you start to hear this sound, then a mechanic should be able to repair your rotor by "machining" it - evening out its surface to remove any grooves made by the calipers. But leaving it for too long will cause the calipers to scratch deep gouges in the rotor to the point it needs replacing, which will be costly.

If your vehicle starts making strange noises it is always a bad sign, and the noises will usually precede some sort of serious damage. Even if you don't know anything about engines, you can get a feeling for the health of vehicle simply by listening for unusual sounds. A reputable auto repair shop will be happy to offer a diagnosis service for any strange sounds you report, and you will often find that you can avoid any costly repairs or replacements simply by keeping your ears open.

Don't Be Afraid to Take Your Vehicle in for Transmission Maintenance

Everyone is so quick to stress the importance of periodic brake inspections and oil changes that many people tend to forget about their vehicle's transmission. How many times have you been informed that you need to have a transmission flush if you have a newer model car? Many mechanics will also recommend a flush for older model cars that have over 100,000 miles on the odometer, even though it is not necessary since it can cause your car to have performance issues later on. No matter what the age is of your particular car, if you have trouble getting your car to shift into gear at any time, you need to take your vehicle to a transmission repair shop.

Many people have a fear of automobile problems. They seem to think that the moment they have a problem, instead of going to a transmission repair shop they would be better off purchasing another car. Now if you happen to have money and spend it freely, then you may not have a problem with this scenario, but if you are like most people, you may have gotten attached to your vehicle and before the current situation had no intentions of replacing it any time soon.

Transmission maintenance is not as expensive as you may think. Many times you may not even need a new transmission. The best thing you can do in a situation like this is to take it to a repair shop so they can determine what the problem is so you can get it fixed.

In the shop, before any repairs are done, you will be informed of what the problem is and what needs to be done to resolve it. If it is the worst case scenario where you will need to have a new transmission, you will have the option to decide if you want to purchase a brand new or rebuilt transmission.

Since most vehicles need this kind of repair when it is least convenient, many people opt for the rebuild option. It is often significantly cheaper than its newer counterpart. Many shops will provide a warranty for rebuilt products but they are not as long as the new ones. These warranties typically cover labor and damages directly related to the rebuilt transmission. Make sure you learn about all of the differences between the new and rebuilt before you make a decision.

Once you have taken your vehicle in for transmission maintenance to have had it inspected and repaired, you will feel as if a great burden has been lifted off of your shoulders. Ask anyone who has ever been in a similar situation and they will tell you that it is one of the most stressful car repair situations beside those involving collisions. You will feel less stressful about driving your vehicle and may even develop a fresh appreciation for your car. You will also gain more life and performance from your car, just remember to keep it properly serviced and take your vehicle in for transmission maintenance periodically.

Have Your Car Maintained By The Same Mechanics Who Change Your Oil

Routine maintenance like oil changes and regular checkups are so important for having a car that works when you need it to. Neglecting basic maintenance will often mean a vehicle that breaks down more often and needs replacement parts that should have lasted a whole lot longer. The best way to prevent unnecessary problems like these is to establish a relationship with experts you can trust and put in the time to keep your car running smoothly before problems develop. An important tip in taking care of this is to have your car maintained by the same mechanics that are doing your oil changes. You will find that taking this simple precaution will save you a whole lot of trouble both in the short and long term.

Service History

Every car is unique and will run into a different series of issues throughout its lifetime. Very often a history of these issues will be critical information for the mechanic servicing your vehicle, in order to get the most comprehensive view of the problem possible. If you go to a different place to have your car worked on than you would normally use for oil changes, this will mean giving a thorough explanation, in your own words, of the issues you have had with the vehicle. For many of us, this will be delivered at best in a less than eloquent way and at worse incorrectly. Sticking with the same mechanics solves this problem, because they are not just familiar with the history, they helped to create it.

Trust

Anyone who has ever gone to a mechanic will attest that, next to expertise, trust is the most important feature of the experience. It is a common stereotype that mechanics will attempt to mislead customers into believing their car has problems that really do not exist in order to charge exorbitant fees for their services. You should know that there are definitely mechanics out there that you can trust, that have many good relationships with customers who will affirm their positive experiences. However, be aware that the stereotypes do not exist for no reason, and that there are mechanics out there who will take advantage of their specialized knowledge to overcharge you. To avoid running into this frustrating and costly issue, once you find a service that you trust, stick with it. Have the people you already know and feel comfortable with take care of both your oil changes and your maintenance, without wasting time testing out other services. This is really a no brainer, but more often than you would think, people simply stop anywhere rather than heading straight for the place they already trust with their oil changes. The next time you need maintenance you can skip this hassle and have the job done right.

There Are Many Options For Auto Repair Shops - Choose the Right One For You

Finding a good shop can be very difficult. There are so many mechanics to choose from and to the average person who knows little about what to look for, this search for a good mechanic can be a dangerous proposition. So here are the questions to ask yourself before you decide:

1 - Look for a mechanic or auto repair shop that has a good reputation.

One of the best ways to find a good auto repair shop is to ask around. Ask friends and family which auto repair shop or mechanic they use. Some auto repair shops throw big money at advertising and promotion, but reputation cannot be bought, and that's why reputation is so important.

2 - Prescreen an auto repair shop or auto mechanic.

The best way to prescreen you prospective long term mechanic or auto repair shop is to take your car in for general maintenance such as oil changes, transmission fluid changes and basic general preventive maintenance work. If the mechanics treat you with respect and the general vibe is good then that's a great start. Also look for things like the cleanliness of the shop, observe to see if there are certifications and award plaques on the wall. If everything seems legitimate, then maybe this is the place where you should get major repairs done.

3 - The difference between a national chain auto repair, a privately owned auto repair and a backyard mechanic.

There are many forms of auto repair in everyone's area. The first type of auto repair shop that I'll describe is national chain shops. The good thing about national chains is that you can be sure that their mechanics are A.S.E. Certified. And also, national chain shops such as Goodyear, Tuffy and all the rest usually have great warranties. There are anywhere from 30 days to 90 days on parts and/or labor. The drawback is that national chains are more expensive in most cases than what a privately owned auto repair shop charges.

Privately owned shops are less expensive and often times provide the same quality of service as the big national chains do. Just be sure to check that the shop has A.S.E. certified mechanics, most do.

Backyard mechanics are risky to work with because they usually don't have the proper diagnostic equipment to detect what the mechanical issue is or appropriate tools to do the work needed. And forget about A.S.E. certification! On the other hand, everybody needs to start somewhere. Personally I have had friends and so called backyard mechanics do work for me and not really any problems. A good backyard mechanic knows and will tell you his limitations. For example installing a starter or an alternator might be a 15 minute job. On the other hand, replacing a transmission is a pretty big deal. The best thing to do is to take your vehicle into an auto shop with the appropriate diagnostic tolls so that you will know what needs to fixed. Once you know what it is that's broken, you'll know what needs to be fixed. From that point you can decide if a backyard mechanic is the right choice for you.

You see many times in this article the term "A.S.E. certified". So you might be asking "what is A.S.E. certified?

A.S.E. Certified definition:

A.S.E. stands for Automotive Service Excellence. To obtain and maintain A.S.E. certification a mechanic must take a test once every five years. The test includes brakes, suspension, steering and engine repair. And this is not just a written test; this is a real hands on test that utilizes actual diagnostic and repair, which means that the mechanic must perform mechanical work to a level of excellence on the test just as they would in the auto repair shop. This is not an easy test either. The statistics are that one out of every three test takers fails the A.S.E. test.

How To Maximize Your Car's Performance

Because a car is a depreciating asset, people are more likely to hold onto their car for longer periods of time. Instead of trading their car in for a new one, people are holding onto their cars and maintaining them so they last longer. To make a car last longer and maximize its performance, there are certain things you can do. This will increase the life of your car and decrease the costs that could come along unexpectedly.

Fluids

By keeping up with the fluids in your car such as oil, you will extend the life of your car. This means changing the oil when it is recommended. The oil needs to be checked and changed regularly for optimum performance. As fluids are being used, they can get low. This is why it is important to check the levels and top off as needed.

You know your car better than anyone because you drive it daily, so listen to the sounds your car makes and any abnormalities. By catching a problem early, you could avoid costly repairs. This could include sputtering, overheating, atypical noises or leaks. If you notice any of these, you should get your car in right away to have it checked and remedied.

Engine

One of the most important things you want to avoid with your engine is overheating. If this occurs, even once, it can cause problems. When overheating occurs, gaskets, seals or cylinders can be damaged. Make sure to watch the engine cooling system gauge on your car. Also, if your 'check engine' light goes on, have your car looked at right away. There is a reason why that light goes on and you do not want to drive with that light on for an extended period of time. Any warning light that goes on should be checked immediately. If the problem is caught early, it can be fixed for a lower cost than if you wait.

Repairs

If you do need repairs, you need to find a trustworthy mechanic. Unless you know a lot about cars, you will be looking to your mechanic for answers. When repairs are necessary, you should use good, quality parts to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. There should be a maintenance schedule for your car and it should be followed, even if they seem unnecessary.

Driving

Sometimes mechanical problems are out of your control, while others are in your control. For instance, you should not accelerate too quickly on a frequent basis. This means breaking it in easily when it is brand new. And when you drive it in harsh conditions, it is important to let it warm up. The more you do these things, the more likely your car will last longer and need fewer repairs. Keeping your car clean is another good way to maintain your car.

No matter how long you plan to keep your car, you should do all of these things in order to maintain it. This should be done not only for yourself, but for the next owner of your car. Since a car can run for a decade or longer, you want to keep your car maintained so it runs its best.

Looking For An Alternative Auto Body Shop?

None of us want to get involved in accidents, but the unfortunate truth is that sometimes we do get involved in an accident that spoils our beloved cars. While on the one hand we have to deal with the emotional trauma of the situation and if required with the physical injuries that we or the passengers of the car may have sustained, we also have to deal with the hassle of getting the vehicle repaired. In such a case it is not always a good option to rush to the repair shop of the maker of car because of several reasons.

One of the key reasons why people do not like to go to the service centers of the manufacturers of their vehicles is that the charges of these centers are prohibitively high. Since people tend to trust the maker of their vehicles, these large companies take advantage of this trust and make the most of having a customer who is not likely to go anywhere else.

However, if you think that your manufacturer is taking more than what they really ought to be charging; then you should look for a good alternative auto body shop. Portland is place where some good vehicle repairers are available.

The good thing about an honest service provider is that they will never overcharge. Since they are interested in providing better service than the company service centers, they replace only what is required and also try to anticipate problems so that the vehicle does not suddenly develop major complications that require major expenditure. The advantage of dealing with an established firm is that they are not going to look for quick money. They have an established clientele and they will not want to hamper their reputation for just a few more dollars.

You need not worry about the quality of service especially if you go for a company that employs factory trained professionals. These professional will not only have the skills required to mend your car but also the knowledge of how different models are to be handled.

Furthermore, there is another advantage of going to alternative an auto body shop. Portland has auto body shops that also make arrangements for the finances that are suddenly required in such situations. They also assist the customers with the insurance claims that have to processed.

Car Replacement Windows

If you find out that your car window has been broken, you can go to a nearby auto shop and ask if they have a replacement in stock. If you are successful in your search, then you can begin the process of replacing your car window. The first step is to make sure that you have the appropriate tools for the project. You will usually need a wide selection of hand tools, a tarp, a repair manual and a vacuum. The next thing to do is to safely remove the door panel of your car door and once you've found a plastic sheet under the panel, you can slowly peel it. You will probably see the pieces of glass from your old car window, remove those safely using gloves and your vacuum cleaner.

Putting in the glass

The next step is to fit in the new window through the two-inch wide slot located on the top of the door panel. This step can prove tricky because fitting in the glass may require that you unbolt some bolts on the door panel to provide more space for the fitting of the glass. Your repair manuals will come in very handy in this particular step. The repair manual will also show you the placement of the bracket and clips that were bonded to the glass. The next step is to make sure that the glass is aligned after you replace the bracket bolts and the weather-stripping on the door panel. After this, get the door panel back and align it to the window crank lever and test your new car window.

Doing repairs yourself can prove to be a tricky task, that is why repair manuals and a small amount of experience can come in handy in minor repair jobs such as the replacement of your car window.

Placemat Ad Advertising

Starting a placemat ad business can create more business for you; free advertising and income all while helping other local small businesses advertise their business all at a reasonable price.

This is an idea not new by any means, but it can prove to be very profitable to you if done right. After you have your clients lined up, you will target small local diners, many will jump at the chance especially when you explain it is "free" it is key to stay away from large establishments like McDonalds or Burger King since the franchise probably supplies the placemats they use.

We all have seen placemats with ads of business offers discounts, coupons or just an announcement of community events. Most placemats have games, pictures for kids to color, word find puzzles.

Placement ads can be the right vehicle that allows you to advertise your business
without paying the costs to do it. Here is what you do; go around to local businesses like the pizza shop, new laundromats, auto body shops, new businesses in your local area.

You can call around or visit these businesses offering ad space on your new 'Jonas Placemat Ads Service' give them the best price, target 8-10 businesses
the first time around offer them an introductory price, one that will cover your costs for printing, and mileage and other related costs for getting the placemat ads made.

Try to get these businesses to offer a coupons like buy 1 get one free or $10 off your first order over a certain amount. Something that will get them reading the ads as they are waiting for their meals to be served, don't forget to make it fun for the kids as well, remember many of these ads are targeted for kids, you can add a twist by adding the ads of local businesses as well.

Don't forget to leave at least two slots empty for your ad and one for the printer so that you can negotiate the price for getting your monthly, or quarterly printing done.

It may be a good idea to offer the printer the free ad space on each printing as long as he is willing to give you the absolute lowest and best price. If this does not work shop around someone will be willing to take you up on this offer it can be a win-win situation for both of you.

Start with 2,000-3,000 at first make sure you make it clear to your clients that the price they are buying the advertising at is only an introductory price of $59.95 or whatever ever you decide, so when you follow up with them in a few weeks or a month or two later they are aware that the cost is up a little because the initial price was the introductory price. Going up $10.00-$20.00 dollars may not seem so bad especially when you explain that they could not get such a wide audience at this low of a price elsewhere.

Try to keep the cost under $99, it hard to find good advertising without have to spend a great deal of money. Be sure to point out the number of people who will see the ad daily especially if you will be using eating establishments.

The key here is for you to get 1) free advertising for your business and 2) the printing costs (at least a large part) paid for by your clients who have brought ad space in the service you are providing.

In conclusion, as you can see just from some of the ideas presented here this could be something that could be very profitable for you plus the possibility of a new side business as well. While creating a vehicle for you to advertise your business for free. It is key to keep it at a reasonable price so that other business will be happy to give it a try.

Auto Body How To - Choosing Your Next Hot Rod Or Custom Car

In today's world of high dollar custom cars, street rods, muscle cars, hot rods, choppers, and restored classics, some people have had dreams of having the coolest ride on the block come true. On the other hand many people have had their dreams and bank accounts shattered by investing in the wrong vehicle for their wants needs and abilities. First off what do you really want? Something that turns heads because its just plain beautiful, or maybe something you had as a youngster or something you always wanted but could never afford. Maybe you need a old family car like a 57 Chevy, or for the rebel with a family, how about the ultimate family cruiser the 49 50 or 51 chopped and channeled mercury. Muscle cars, choppers, hot rods, and model T's all have a following, and all have their pros and cons. You should really do you home work on the car you wish to have well before you actually purchase one.

Some thing to consider are how far do you plan to drive and are you willing to give up comfort for cool or vise verse? Do you plan to take three or more friends with you or just one? Is gas mileage or horse power more important for you needs. Do you have the ability, the knowledge, the tools, the time, the money, and most important do you like or should I say Love working on your dream ride.

Now that you have contemplated what you really want, with what you really need you can start looking. You may have found that several cars have met both your wants and needs and that is the best scenario. If you have an open mind you will have many more options to get the best value for your money.

When you start your search remember your skill level and also you budget, the best advice I can give you is to look for a complete vehicle that is exactly the way you want it. Why not a old primed car that you can paint and put a new engine in? Money, Time, Money, Time and much more Money and Time. I have built many award wining custom cars and bikes and can tell you for a fact that you can very seldom build a complete car for less then you can buy one that is already complete. If you do decide to buy a car that needs work I would recommend trying to find one that has the body and paint work already done and is missing running gear. It is much cheaper to rebuild or replace running gear then to do body and paint work, and the skills to do parts changing is much easier to learn then the skills to do body and paint work. The tools to do body work correctly are also much more expensive. You will most likely have to hire a pro to rebuild your engine or transmission but you could easily install them with a little common sense.

So contrary to most the info on the net, (Good Quality) Body and Paint work is the most expensive, most time consuming, and by far takes the highest automotive skill level to achieve good results. The more time you spend working on your car the less time you will have to enjoy using it and the more chance that when you finally get it finished to your original expectations (I bet less then 1 out of 100 ever are finished) you will sell your dream for Penny's on the dollar not including all your hard labor. You will put it up for sale either because you are so sick of working on it, you give up on it, or because you spent your mortgage building it and don't want to end up having to sleep in it with your loving better half saying I told you so.

This is when you come back to this article and say: Now I get it!

Let someone else lose their home and spouse over building your dream car so you can go out and buy it finished and start driving it today.

Get Quality Auto Glass Repair For Damaged Windshields

If you are in need of top quality auto glass repair for damaged wind shields in Scranton, PA, then you can definitely come across the full range of economical wind shield repair services, done with a smile. Scranton has a variety of different chain and ma and pa glass stores which will gladly fix your damaged, chipped or broken wind shields and several other auto glass. Regardless of whether you have a simple chip, ding, crack, or hole in your windshield, there are plenty of auto repair facilities competing for your business who can give you a competitive rate and precise estimate for insurance claims.

Scranton, PA is just like any place in the nation--or planet, for that matter--in that we're not really protected from broken glass. The chief culprit in damaged or cracked windshields is other automobiles on the roadway--namely, big rigs that either trail or kick up rocks. This does not have to be a stressful experience for you, however. A lot of glass repair companies will give you a timely estimate--whether you are fully insured or not. The average auto glass claim is around $100-$200, but however they can be less and more. It is important to make a claim in as well-timed a way as possible for numerous reasons, not just monetary.

...And You Don't EVER have to use the "Insurance companies" hand picked carriers. For the most part "their pick" has nothing to do with your benefit. Always KNOW you can hand pick you own auto glass provider.
More Reasons To Get Professional Auto Glass Repair

Good quality auto glass repair is essential, as the windshield plays a essential role in the framework of your car, protecting you and your travelers from much more than just wind and debris. It aids in protection of occupants in a front on crash, and its positioning helps you keep airbags working in the suitable positions. Having a licensed glass technician advise you on and carry out the job of repairing your wind shield is always a much better idea than going to some auto body shop, where they might not specialize in auto repair itself.

There are however various other reasons to get well-timed repair done on your broken windshield. Small cracks and chips can turn into large problems almost overnight, if not sorted out. This leaves drivers with an even bigger head ache, so make sure to take your car right in and make an insurance claim ASAP. This benefits everybody--the insurance company, who does not want their covered driver driving with a blind spot liability; the auto glass company, which enjoys the business and gets you a new wind shield; and obviously YOU, the driver, who benefits in the obvious way.

When looking for an auto glass repair shop to take your claim, look for certain hallmarks of a dependable business--number of years serving the public, the Better Business Bureau seal of approval, superb consumer review ratings and testimonies, and full disclosure of who they are and how they function. This will make getting your auto glass repair for a damaged windshield in Scranton, PA, or where ever you are a lot more satisfactory experience.

Auto Repairs and Car Maintenance for Better Performance

Cars require weekly, monthly, and yearly care and maintenance if they are to continue running at the best level of performance. If you forget to water your indoor plants, they die. Well, if you forget to care for your car properly, it might stop running. Therefore, auto repairs and car maintenance strategies are important to the longevity of your automobile.

In fact, without providing proper maintenance for your car, you can expect to incur some unnecessary auto repairs that have now become necessary. In many cases, the failure to take care of your vehicle properly can lead to expensive mechanical repairs. For example, if you notice that your auto's water pump is acting funny (vibrating or making unusual sounds), and you fail to visit an auto repair service center to have it checked out, your water pump might cause even more damage to the car when it fails to work at all. It's important to take care of auto repairs as soon as you realize the need to do so.

Making sure that your vehicle undergoes simple car maintenance on a regular basis is essential if you want to avoid more expensive repairs. For example, if you fail to maintain the proper levels of oil, water, or antifreeze into your car, then you may end up with an expensive auto repair bill to replace the upper, lower, or entire engine of the car.

Simple car maintenance strategies can be done by the car owner or an auto center. The choice is a personal one. Some car owners are better off taking their vehicle to an experienced mechanic, while others prefer to do so because they don't like the work involved to provide proper car maintenance.

In addition to changing the oil/oil filter in your car, you should maintain proper air pressure in your tires, flush the radiator when merited, and change the air filter when it becomes dirty. Car maintenance is typically cheaper than auto repairs, so take your car to an experienced auto mechanic at least twice a year to keep your car in tip-top shape.

Quality and Customer Management Keys to Expanding Auto Body Repair Services

If you're the owner of a small auto body repair and refinishing shop that has seen a steady increase in customers over the years, it's but a natural progression to think of expanding the business. Or maybe you've done just that and already have a couple or even several sites that offer auto body or collision repair services. One of the things you will have noticed and should be addressing on a continuous basis is quality control. As you expand your business with several sites operational in a wide geographical area, it becomes physically impossible to be always present every time a dissatisfied or marginally satisfied customer shows up at one of your branches. Maintaining the same standards of quality, ethics and performance is a demanding task that you as the owner may not have been prepared for or even bothered about when you were operating just a single collision repair shop. And it today's world where a single tweet or status update can damage your business, ensuring quality control across all steps or addressing the concerns of dissatisfied customers is of prime importance.

Consider the various activities that need to be performed when you take in a vehicle that needs collision repair. First of all you need to have a good estimating process that takes into account the parts, materials and labor involved in restoring that vehicle to the condition it was in before the accident. A distressed customer wants to know as soon as possible how much and how soon the vehicle can be repaired. That car may be the only car a family has and it's going to crimp that family's mobility as long as it's in the shop. But before you can give an estimate of a turnaround time, you have to make sure that the parts are available. And even then, you have to be able to give a competitive price because let's face it, your customer has the choice of a couple more shops when he or she is looking for collision repair services.

In the event you are able to convince the customer that you offer superior value and quality in collision repair compared to the competition, customer satisfaction is a subjective thing. There will be people who are easy to please and some who can be unreasonable. Like it or not, there must be a person within the company assigned to monitor the quality control and customer satisfaction process. When you have expanded your auto body or collision repair services beyond one or two sites, customer experience management is a process that must be given some thought and effort. Maintaining a customer base that has a high number of repeat or referred business is the only way to keep your collision repair operations viable into the future.

What Purpose Does Dyno Tuning Serve?

If you are looking for a tune-up of great quality for your car, dyno tuning could be the solution. For the smoothest performance at an economical price, there is no better solution other than dyno tuning. Here's how this procedure could rev up your car for a great ride.

Can you justify your claims about your car's horsepower? Have you tried the most systematic approach to tuning your engine yet? The dynomometer is a machine which is used to determine your vehicle's horsepower and can also be used to tune up your car based on that.

Chassis and Engine Dyno

An auto expert will be able to determine the best the best dynamometer which can be used for your car. A chassis dyno is what they generally use as it does not require you to have your engine removed. It measures power at wheels so it is likely that driveline, tyres and transmission might affect horsepower readings. However, this is a simple procedure and preferred by most drivers. On the other hand, an engine dyno is capable of depicting accurate horsepower readings by measuring power at flywheel. This ensures consistent power from the engine and zero interruption from driveline or transmission. However, it is seldom used by regular drivers due to its high cost but remains the preferred dyno for racing teams, car manufacturers and tuners.

Great Drive Courtesy Dyno Tune

Unbeatable power and throttle response is what car drivers look forward to when they tune their car and a dyno tune assures you just that. When you choose to dyno tune, an auto expert will test and tune your car's settings in a controlled environment; in fact the whole process of dyno tuning is a controlled experiment wherin the slightest of changes can be measured with precision. Both old and new cars alike have to deal with poor fuel quality and inconsistent conditions of driving today. Older cars also deal with the wear and damage of prolonged use and response, performance and speed might take a beating due to that. Dyno tune can help all types of cars - old and new. You can have the road speeds and loads replicated in a controlled environment and have your desire for maximum power and response fulfilled easily. With the advent of dyno technology, you can help improve the performance of your car and also reduce your fuel costs which also contributes to a greener environment. The benefits of dyno tuning are many, what's important is that you need to find an expert who can assure you quality service for your precious wheels. Beware of auto mechanics who show optimistic results which are altered using dyno technology. Get a powerful and an efficient tune today with a leading auto dealer or mechanic in your city.

Acura Extended Warranty - A Quick Glance at Honda's Extended Warranty Plans for the Acura

Honda's Acura Care extended warranty program provides much needed coverage for your new or used Honda Acura. The great thing is the program isn't only for Acura owners - you might be able to get the coverage for your vehicle. Just about every automobile make or model can be covered under Honda's extended warranty program. All you need to do is contact your local Honda dealers to see if you can purchase warranty program. Let's take a closer look at what's covered under the Honda Care program to see if it fits your needs.

One of the great benefits offered is roadside assistance. This provides you help, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, if your car breaks down, gets a flat tire or is inoperable in some other way. The service may provide a service technician on site (like in instances of a flat tire) or it may provide towing to the nearest Honda-approved mechanic shop. After you have received your help, all you need to do is sign the invoice and be on your way. Honda will take care of the rest. A few of the common types of roadside assistance include flat tire changes, battery jump-starts and locksmith services (for when you lock the keys in the car).

Emergency concierge services are also provided in the Honda Care program. This gives you have access to urgent message relay, emergency cash advances, assistance for obtaining emergency airline tickets, insurance claim assistance, referral for automobile glass replacement and other types of special assistance. If you need to rent a vehicle to drive while your vehicle is being repaired, the Honda Care plan will cover it. Trip Interruption and Routing Services are two more benefits of Acura warranty coverage.

Lastly, you have the comprehensive component coverage. If you vehicle malfunctions or fails, the plan kicks in. Examples of items covered under this component are the drive train, computers/electronics, chassis, heating and cooling systems and other accessories.

The Honda Care plan provides much needed peace of mind. You will be able to travel worry free and know that if anything goes wrong, Honda is just a toll-free phone call away to get things taken care of.

Mobile Smart Repair to Keep Your Car Like New

If given the choice most people would choose to drive a brand new car all of the time. Mobile smart repair techniques can make this ideal a reality. It is just about impossible to keep a car in immaculate condition all of the time with paint damage being caused naturally by corrosion, the elements and incorrect washing techniques, as well as the damage caused by accidents - bumper scuffs, scratches, dents, dings and scrapes.

In the past, the only solution has been to book your car into a car body shop for a few days and face up to a huge bill at the end of it. In practice, this meant that most minor repairs and refurbishment needs were ignored and tolerated, as the benefits were not worth the expense and hassle

However, there is now a new way of fixing these old problems. SMART repairs were introduced in the early 1990s in the United States and came over to Britain shortly afterwards. SMART stands for Small Medium Area Repair Technique and the repairs are carried out by skilled technicians who can repair your bumper scuff or car scratches and dents in a fraction of the time taken by a traditional body shop, and at a fraction of the cost. This is possible because of the specialist tools and the specialist techniques that allow a SMART repair technician to repair only the damaged are and not waste time and materials over painting undamaged sections of the vehicle.

Many people choose a mobile SMART repairer to fix minor cosmetic damage to their car because they are planning to sell it and realise that the resale value is increased by removing signs of wear and tear and damage, others choose the SMART repair route because they want the look and feel of a brand new car even though the vehicle is several years old. Yet more drivers choose this method when they have a lease return inspection on a hire car and realise the huge bill they will be facing if they do not find a cost effective way of returning the car to an as new condition. Whatever the reason, smart repair is the obvious choice for anyone wanting to restore the former glory of their vehicle without the usual massive car body shop prices.

It is a fact that in most cases involving minor cosmetic car body damage like bumper scuffs, car dent removal and alloy wheel refurbishment, mobile smart repair is the best way to save time and money.

Auto Repair: Doing Car Power Window Repair On Your Own

Even though car power windows function really well because they are designed to be automated so that they go up and down with the simple press of a button, they can also be subject to auto repair. There will be times when you press the button and find out that the car power windows aren't working. There are a lot of reasons for this. Read on so that you'll know how to handle this type of auto repair on your own.

Before we dive into the steps of fixing your car's power windows, we must first take a look at the different reasons why they malfunction. First among the most common reasons for this would be accumulated debris around the switch, which disrupt the windows from opening and closing. Next, the fuse boxes situated underneath the dashboard could have also gone faulty leading to this problem. You can easily identify this by looking for a broken metal strip inside the fuse box. If both the switch and fuse box are fine but the car windows are still not responding to the switch, then there must be some problem with the wiring connected to the fuse box. Loose connections are a common reason for a lot of electrical circuit failures. Other possible reasons for this kind of problem include a malfunctioning electrical motor and faulty car window regulators.

Let's now proceed to the steps you need to follow if you want to fix the problem on your own.

1. Remove the door panel of the window that needs repair so you can check the window regulator and motor.

2. Look for the bolts holding the regulator of the window and remove them. Disconnect the wiring and replace it with a new one in case the old window regulator is broken.

3. If there's nothing wrong with the window regulator, check for the presence of loose connections in the power window's wiring. If they're okay, it may be that there's something wrong with the electrical motor. Test the functionality of your window's motor by using a multimeter. If the multimeter shows infinite resistance and zero current, this indicates that your motor is broken and it needs to be replaced.

4. Once your finished diagnosing the problem of your windows, do what you need to do to fix it (replace the motor, regulator, wiring, or fuse). Tighten the bolts and put the moisture barrier back on.

5. Reinstall the door panel and test if the window is working well again by pressing the switch.

Want to Sell My Car Parts

Sometimes cars become too expensive to maintain, where some people will pay to have it towed away. Well instead of giving up the car to someone who will be selling off the parts, why not try selling them yourself? Selling car parts can make you a decent amount of money. If you want to sell your car parts, you need to find the right customers.

One outlet for used car parts is the local newspaper's classified section. Run an ad and see what happens. Selling parts from your car isn't going to make you a lot of money, but it beats just leaving them on the car as it's towed to the junkyard. You can also sell your car parts by word of mouth. You never know what can happen.

If you can't sell your parts through the normal venues, you're going to have to be creative. If you've got parts that are worth some money, and in excellent condition, try putting a note on community bulletin boards in stores, the library, or wherever you can put one up. Online bulletin boards for your area are also good places to list car parts for sale. If you post your name, number, city, and your make and model year, you might connect with a mechanic who's been searching for your exact item. If your parts are the only ones around, you can make some good money.

Aside from all of the above, the first place to find someone who would buy these parts would be at your local junkyard. Yards make their money by taking apart the cars that they have, and by selling them. Most yards do it on the side, but a few have made a million-dollar business out of it. Junk yards usually buy the whole car dirt cheap and then part it out themselves, as customers come looking for a carburetor, radiator, set of brakes, or whatever else the customer may need. If there's a demand for your model year and the junkyard doesn't have any in, the junkyard might do business with you.

Auto Repair Using Online Car Repair Manual

Just like with almost any new gadget or appliance, each brand-new vehicle comes with a manual. It doesn't provide the basic instructions on how to drive your vehicle-you should have already learned that in driving school. What a car owner's manual provides are explanations on how to use the car's different components and features, such as the windshield wipers, defroster, turn signal lights, etc. And depending on the car's manufacturer, the manual may also contain tips and reminders on basic car maintenance (like when to replace your tires), defensive driving (appropriate use seat belt and airbag), and responsible car ownership (basic road rules you should comply with).

However, don't confuse a car owner's manual with a car repair guide. If the first deals with the basic how-to's in operating a car's different systems, a car repair manual deals with, well, auto repair. Like a car owner's manual, a repair manual may still contain illustrations, instructions, and tips on how to use and maintain your car, but it's more focused on providing comprehensive instructions in system repairs and auto parts replacement. And if you think that car repair has a very wide coverage that it should be hard to put them all in a single manual, you couldn't be more correct.

If we're going to compile all kinds of repairs one can do in a car, we'd probably be able to produce literally tens of thousands of pages of car repair instructions. That's why auto repair manuals-whether in print or soft/online copy-come in different kinds. There are the generic car repair guide that cover basic troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of the most commonly replaced components such as turn signals, windshield wiper inserts, and fuses. And because they're generic, they can be referred to for repairing different vehicle makes and models.

If there are generic repair manuals, there are also vehicle-specific repair manuals. These basically have the same content as the generic manuals. But because they're specifically made for certain vehicle makes and models, they could provide instructions on more complicated and vehicle-specific diagnoses and auto repairs.

So, if you want to troubleshoot and repair your car, be sure to refer to the right auto repair manual-get a generic manual for basic repairs and a vehicle-specific manual if the trouble is unique to your ride. With a good auto repair manual at hand, it would definitely be easy for you to learn and perform a DIY fix for your ride.

Car Scratch Repair - How Did You Get Your Car Scratches?

It is expensive to repair car scratches. You may hire someone who is knowledgeable in repairing car scratches and damages but may cost you a lot. Or you can do the repairs yourself; however, this is difficult especially if you do not know anything about repairing cars. You still have to learn some techniques to get the job done successfully. Or the easiest way is to use DIY kits that will guide you repairing your car. Again, these kits will also require a little knowledge on repairing car scratches. So to avoid this inconvenience, you can in the first place, avoid things that may cause scratches on your car.

You may not be aware that some of the simple things you do on your automobile cause scratches and little damages. It may lessen the value of the car and will not look good also. Here are some of the things that you may be doing that can damage your car paint and cause scratches.

First thing that causes scratches to vehicles is by going to automatic drive-through car washes. These car wash places have hard-hitting types of water hoses which may damage your car paint. Wash car personnel that have poor hand drying works can also damage your car paint. Some car owners may think that they are having their cars cleaned thoroughly, but they do not notice small scratches when they go for these drive-through car washes.

Another thing that you usually do when cleaning your machine is be using dish washing soap. This type of soap is harsh to paints. Not many people know this fact but it is safer to use car soaps since these are specifically made for cars. Also, when drying your car, using dry towel or paper towel can be very harsh for your car paint. This will create small scratches that you may not even notice at all. However, when done several times, these scratches will show and damage the appearance of your ride. It is better to use chamois to dry your car after washing.

And lastly, improper care, handling and maintenance can get your car scratched and damaged. It is always a must to know the proper car care techniques. You should also some car scratches repair techniques so that you do not need to confine your car to an auto mechanic. You can just do the repairing yourself. This will save you time and money.

There are certain things that we do that may damage our cars unknowingly. We should at least be careful with how we handle our vehicles so that we may not need to go through repairing car scratches. Sometimes the things that thought are good are those that actually causes the bigger damages. There are lots of ways to fix car scratches. You just have to choose wisely which one will last longer on your automobile. It is okay to spend more on quality ways of car scratch repair than have your car repaired over and over again.

Washing Your Car: More Than Just a Bucket of Suds

Your car is one of your most significant purchases, after your home, and although washing it may seem pretty basic, there are a few tips you should know to protect your investment.

Wash your car on a regular basis, not just when you have company coming to town or you plan to take your boss to dinner. Keeping your car clean and free from dirt and debris will cut down on rust and help to keep the value of your car up.

Cleaning the Outside

Choose a soft, automotive sponge and a sturdy bucket filled with cool water to tackle the car wash project but stay away from harsh cleaning solutions like dish or laundry soap that can harm the finish on your car. Better yet, invest in the myriad of top quality car care products like car wash soap, tire dressing, wheel cleaner and other products designed to clean your leather or vinyl interior.

- Choose a shady spot to wash your car, as direct sunlight can be absorbed by the finish of dark color cars and cause water spots.
- Start by soaking the car with cool water to remove excess dirt and debris from the finish.
- Rinse out the wheel wells to remove mud and dirt that may have become packed into the body and may lead to trapped moisture causing premature rust.
- Start at the top and work your way down the car.
- Use cool water as warm or hot water will remove applied car wax.
- Wash the tires as well as the wheels. Car wash soap and water will never damage a chrome or specialty wheel.
- Rinse the soapy water and towel dry. I have found a nice old soft bath towel does a wonderful job.

Special Note: The only thing that will remove tree sap from a car's finish is cold water.

Dings and Scratches

As soon as you notice a small ding or scratch in the paint, use a dab of touch up paint. The touch up paint will help keep the spot from rusting. Larger dings, dents and scratches should also be taken care of as quickly as possible to avoid rust developing.

Touch up paint is available at most after market auto part supply shops, however, if you have a specialty color check with your dealer. They should be able to order a tube for a minimal cost.

Lubricate the Doors

Here's a quick trick for getting the squeak out of your car doors. Use new motor oil on the joints of your hood, rear gate and doors to keep them adequately lubricated. Pour the oil in the bottom of the door and also run it between the layers of steel to avoid sticking and rusting. Some have found that shooting the oil into the holes in your doors is also helpful but keep it away from the window tracks to avoid oil smearing the glass.

For the best results use a pump can of motor oil that you can pick up at an auto parts store. However, avoid using old oil which contains acids that will cause your car to rust.

Don't Forget the Inside

You've heard the phrase "carry in, carry out" related to camping or picnicking in a State or National park, but many find that same philosophy helpful when it comes to keep the inside of your car clean and free from clutter.

Here are a few more tips for cleaning the inside of your vehicle:

- Be prepared with plastic garbage bags in the glove box for trash and sealing organizer boxes for toys, tools and first aid supplies.
- Keep your carpet floor mats clean by covering them with inexpensive plastic floor mats that can easily be wiped clean.
- Multi-task: When buying fuel it is a great time to empty the trash in your car. Most gas stations have trash cans right by the fuel pumps so why not take advantage of them and get rid of the junk that may have accumulated.
- Sweep the carpet and dust the dashboard.
- Treat the leather or vinyl with products designed for the task.
- A damp, soft cloth is a great tool for dusting the dashboard without causing any damage.

Cleaning Stains from Upholstery

Before you can effectively clean a stain, you first need to identify what it is. Tar and oil stains will require a cleaner that is solvent based (Petroleum). Pour some of the solvent onto a cloth and lightly rub in a circle fanning out until it disappears. Repeat if necessary.

Food, soda and other non-petroleum based stains will respond best to mild soap and water. I have found an automotive product called Tuff Stuff that works great on everything from fabric to vinyl and carpet. However, it is not a solvent-based product so it won't remove tar or oil stains.

Cleaning the Windows

There is nothing like looking through a clean windshield. Use a good glass cleaner and soft cloth when washing the windows. Try this trick - clean the inside of the windows with a horizontal motion and a vertical motion on the outside of the window. This way if there is a streak you can quickly identify which side of the window it is on.

Just in Case

Always have a pencil and paper in your car in case you should have an accident. Also, have all your car documents in a folder for easy access. Most cell phones are equipped with cameras, however, if yours isn't, keep a disposable camera on hand to take pictures of the scene of the accident for use with the police or your insurance company.

My Car is TOO dirty - I Don't Know Where to Start

If you have neglected the upkeep of your car, fear not. Invest in a car detailing for your automobile or truck. For a fee ranging from $75 - $150, they will clean your car like new and make it easier for you to maintain your vehicle going forward.

Once they have you back on track, just keep up the normal washing, vacuuming and dusting to keep your car in tip top shape. A well maintained car adds value when it comes time for resale.

Want to Learn More About Auto Mechanic Training?

For those people seeking automobile training, they should understand that attending a trade school program will give you the BEST chance to move directly into this field. No matter is you are looking to work, taking courses at a trade school can open things up.

What Will You Learn With Auto Mechanic Training? Today's auto mechanics need to have a wide range of different skills and they need to understand how to fix many different types of vehicle.

For this reason, the field is becoming more difficult, as you can no longer just rely upon basic knowledge to fix a few types of cars. You need to understand electrical systems, all of the foreign parts that people might have problems with, and you have to be a master at customer service, as well.

Because of all of these skills, trade school's offer the perfect opportunity to enhance your degree. The following are benefits of attending an auto mechanic program at a solid trade school:

• Learning all of the latest techniques, including how to deal with complicated electrical systems


• Getting a basic background knowledge on all cars, allowing you to build from that foundation in the future


• Learning important and necessary customer service tactics to make you a more successful business person when you transition into the working world

How Can I Use My Auto Mechanic Training? No matter where you try to open up your own shop, you will certainly have a lot of competition. This means that your credentials will come in handy for marketing purposes - auto mechanic training could help you become a better business professional. Additionally, people who will go to work for larger mechanics shops will need the skills to be competitive in the workforce in order to climb the "corporate ladder." The following are possible job opportunities that one might have upon completion of auto mechanic training program:

• Work with a large car dealership, fixing their cars on site and customer vehicles


• Work with an individual shop, specializing in some type of auto care


• Work with a major auto maker, ensuring that their vehicles are running smoothly before being put on the market

It is easy to see how this is a field where practical knowledge would be important. Trade school classes teach you skills that you have to know in order to be successful, so that should play a role in your decision.

Cell Phone Policies - An Important Auto Shop Management Consideration

When your employees come to work in the morning, you're entitled to expect them to be "thinking" about their job as well as doing it. The "thinking" part includes considering a customer's concerns, performing a proper diagnosis, and concentrating on what they're doing with each service or repair. If they're distracted by other people, or taking a call on their cell phone, then not only do you not get what you're entitled to (which is their full concentration on the job), but it may very well lead to a serious accident. Just as we all would expect that a surgeon would not be talking on the phone while operating, your customers have the right to know that your technicians are 100% focused when working on their brakes, suspension, etc. Excessive cell phone use will inevitably occur without a strict, clearly communicated auto shop management policy in place.

So do this: Have an employee meeting and tell all your people that the single, most important thing to you is the safety of your employees and the safety of your customers. Tell them that your company policy now states that all cell phones need to be turned off and put away when employees come to work, period. Employees will often feel that this policy is unfair and infringes upon a right that they are entitled to, so be sure to tell them that this policy is not being implemented to increase productivity, but to protect the well-being of your customers. With this new auto shop management policy in place, they will be able to retrieve messages and return calls when they're on break or during lunch. If they tell you they're concerned that someone might have to reach them in an emergency situation, just tell them all they'll need to do is assure their immediate family members, baby-sitters, schools, etc., all have the shop phone number.

So don't let the tail wag the dog. If you do, the day will come when you'll pay a price, and that price may very well be a serious injury or the loss of life. The stars that work with you will understand the reason for this policy, and why it is so important. Those who don't will more than likely be gone in a short time anyway. Lastly, make sure that this auto shop management policy is in your employee handbook and disclosed with each candidate for employment.

Transmission Problems - 8 Warning Signs

You may be reading this article because you suspect that something is amiss with the automatic transmission in your car. Often times, people experience what they feel may be a transmission concern but are unsure. Take my advice; it is far better to address these problems early on than to let them evolve into a catastrophic transmission failure.

Because the automatic transmission is the most complex piece of machinery in your entire vehicle, by no means can a list of warning signs be all-inclusive. With that said, here are the 8 most common problems that have been observed by transmission repair specialists over the years. These are the early warning signs that you want to look out for:

1) Leakage. That small pool of pinkish oil that you see when you move your vehicle from its parking spot in the morning is a sign of trouble. Transmissions can leak from nearly 20 different external seals- some are very simple to repair, while others require more involved service procedures. In any case, the idea is to have the vehicle looked at right away by a qualified transmission repair shop because, much like an engine that gets low on oil, a transmission that is low on fluid can fail completely in very short order.

2) Shaking. Sometimes a shaking or bucking sensation is experienced, especially at highway speeds. While this may be an issue of poor engine tune, it could also be a malfunction in the transmission. Take it to an expert that can tell the difference and diagnose it for you.

3) Delayed drive or reverse. A noticeably longer than normal hesitation for your transmission to engage a gear once the shifter is put in "D" or "R" is another sign of a transmission malfunction. These delays can be caused by anything from a low fluid level or a band that is in need of adjustment to an internal transmission seal or clutch pack that is failing. Again, sooner rather than later is the right time to get it checked out.

4) A neutral condition on brisk acceleration from a stop or when going around a turn. This is a classic sign of a low fluid condition. Remember, unlike an engine where it may be normal for some oil to be consumed over time, if a transmission is low on fluid it is leaking.

5) Burning smell. A burnt odor can be a sign of a transmission that is overheating or is leaking fluid onto the exhaust. This needs to be addressed immediately- if engine oil or transmission fluid drips onto a hot exhaust it could catch on fire.

6) Check engine light. Today's transmissions are computer controlled and a check engine light can be an indication of a trans problem, even if you don't have a drivability symptom yet. Modern automobile computers are extremely sensitive and can detect a transmission slip or malfunction that would be imperceptible to the driver. The light comes on to tell you that something is wrong somewhere- listen to it and get your car checked out!

7) Transmission Slipping. Slipping is a condition where the engine is revving but full power is not getting to the wheels. Slipping can be caused by a variety of transmission malfunctions- none of which should be ignored.

8) Harsh shifting and wrong gear starts. A hard shift or wrong gear start either by itself or in conjunction with a check engine light may be a sign that your transmission is in a computer commanded "failsafe" or "limp home" mode. This can be triggered by your vehicle's computer when it detects a transmission fault. The reason for this computer strategy is to let the driver know that there is a problem and to help protect the transmission from further damage while it is "limped" to a shop to be repaired.

While we often fall into the trap of hoping that problems with our vehicles will somehow go away or fix themselves, rarely does it work out that way. Paying attention to and addressing your vehicle's small problems before they turn into larger ones can often help you to avoid costly transmission repairs.

Picking the Best Car Repair Manual

There are many reasons why one would want to purchase or have their very own car repair manual. One of the main reasons is the fact that a car owner may have realized that they are spending too much money at the garage getting basic things fixed. Another reason is the fact that one may want to learn more about their car and 'what goes where' and in that way, it will be easier to know all about the spare parts and accessories should and can purchase. One could also choose to get a manual, especially an online one because they will get the latest modifications and editions that may have new and important things one may wish to know about their car. One should know what to look for in a car repair manual.

One of the best ways to pick a manual is by getting one for a specific car make. Many a car repair manual may target card of a particular decade or one can get a manual for the exact model, make, and year. In that way, one does not have to get the wrong information on a part that may be present in one model and absent in another. One should choose from a credible publisher to avoid being scammed. If one chooses a shoddy car repair manual, then there is a chance the car owner is putting themselves at risk in terms of safety on the road by following sub-standard instructions. Haynes is one credible publisher. One can choose to get a general car repair manual that is good for basics that are the same in all cars, like spark plugs and brake pads but it is advised that one does not rely on it alone. This coupled with ones specific car make manual can get one a long way when it comes to doing one's own repairs on their car.

Hail Damage to Roofs & Auto Hail Damage

According to East Tennessee SKYWARN, "Hail is a form of precipitation that occurs at the beginning of thunderstorms. They consist of near spherical pellets of ice and snow, usually combined in alternating layers."

By this definition alone, you can already imagine what potential damage hail can do to your home, specifically your roof. And, if hail can damage your roof, just think how it can damage your vehicle. In fact, big hailstones that fall with force have been known to cause fatal harm to humans and animals.

Scientists have been trying to reduce the destructiveness of hail by injecting large quantities of silver iodide into a thunderstorm. They are trying to overseed storm clouds so that smaller hailstones will form. This will prevent them from developing into large hailstones. But as of this date, results remain inconclusive.

What damage can hail do to your roof?
Hail damage on vehicles can easily be seen but the damage that hail does to your roof will not be as obvious. Hail damage results in a random pattern of strike marks in different sizes. You may find dents, cracks or bare asphalt (if you have asphalt shingles on your roof). Additional signs of hail damage to an asphalt roof could be: granules that have settled at the base of your downspouts, metal air vents that have significant damage and damaged and dented siding or gutters.

Generally, hail has to be at least 1 and 1/4 inches in diameter before it can cause damage to wood shake shingles or heavy composite shingles. Hail that is 1 inch in diameter may damage lightweight composite shingles. However, if you have deteriorated composite shingles on your roof, hail that is less than 1 inch in diameter can easily cause damage.

What do I do if my roof has been damaged by hail?
Most hailstorm damages are cosmetic and won't have any adverse effects on your roof. However, moderately severe hail damage that strips shingle of their coatings may affect the longevity of your roof and this may qualify for repairs covered by your insurance. If the damage will cause leaks, exposed areas should be covered with tarps held in place with wood strips and nails. When you can access the roof, you should permanently repair the sheathing and replace missing and damaged tiles, shingles or shakes.

Are there available hail-proof roofs in the market?
There are hail-resistant roofs but to this day, you cannot find any hail-proof roofs in the market. These hail-resistant roofs have Class 1 through Class 4 hail-resistance ratings, 1 being the lowest and 4 the highest. These roofs are rated based on test results done by The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM). A steel ball is dropped from a predetermined height and the damage that the roof sustains is then measured.

There are several roofs that carry this rating but the most likely to endure hail with minimal or no damage would be concrete tile, composite shingles and metal roofs. When you purchase a roof be sure to check with the manufacturer to determine what hail rating is given to a particular product.

What damage can hail do to your vehicle?
If hail can damage your roof, then an exposed vehicle can sustain much damage. Dents will most likely be the most common problem. If your vehicle will be exposed to large hailstones however, there is a probability that you might end up with broken windows and/or a broken windshield. The good news is, with your vehicle, you can take preventive measures so that it will not be damaged by hail.

What can you do to prevent your vehicle from being damaged by hail?
When hail is in the weather forecast, put your car, boat or RV into a garage. If you have no choice but to leave your vehicle outside, cover parts of the vehicle that is most susceptible to hail damage, with thick blankets. These would be the roof, hood, trunk, windows and windshield.

In cases where you are suddenly caught in the middle of a hailstorm while driving your car, seek cover in a covered parking lot or garage. Another option would be to go under an overpass or any place with an awning. If you are on a long stretch of road with no cover in sight, pull off the highway, park at the side of the road and just wait it out.

What do I do if my vehicle has been damaged by hail?

1. Contact your insurance company and report the damage immediately.


2. Find out if your insurance has a preferred body shop that can do the necessary repair to your vehicle. If you want to choose the repair shop yourself, make sure that you will have your vehicle serviced by a reputable facility.


3. Make sure that you discuss with your insurance company and your body shop, what kind of repair should be done to your vehicle.


4. Ask how long the repair will take. But if several vehicles were damaged in your area during the hailstorm, do not expect the repairs to be finished immediately.


5. After repairs are made, make sure that everything was done to your satisfaction. Check for remaining dents and scratches before taking your vehicle back home.


6. Before having your vehicle repaired, you must check if the repair shop guarantees its work. Make sure that you get the guarantee and contact information in writing. If you find any flaws in the repair, you should be able to bring it back to them at no additional cost.

Hailstorms are part of nature. While most parts of the world may not experience this kind of weather, those who live in the middle latitudes are not so fortunate. If you are one of those people and have no choice but to live with it, just do the best you can to protect your roof and your vehicle by following the simple steps mentioned earlier.

Periodic AC Service And Auto Repair Keeps Automobiles Running Longer

For everyone who has a car, they know the importance of maintaining it and keeping it up. They are a few things that should be done periodically to help keep your automobile running longer. This mechanic knows the importance of up keeping your car is. There are a few things that you should up keep to keep it running smooth.

First thing, one that everyone thinks of, is oil change, air filter changes, and tune ups. They know that those are needed to keep your car running smooth. Those are really the easy ones to remember. These things keep your car running good and help to keep everything how it is supposed to be. Oil Changes should be done every 3 months or every 3000 miles, whichever comes first. The air filter should be changed every other oil change. And the tune up should be done every 15000 miles or so. Doing these things keeps the life of your car longer.

Another service that should be done to keep your car up to par is AC service. No one would think that the AC and heating is just as important to up keep as other parts of your car. If the heating and cooling of your car is not working properly, it could also mean the engine of your car is running hot. The entire cooling system is dependent on certain parts working right and in unison. The mechanics can pinpoint exactly what is wrong, and help fix the problem.

Next on the list, is steering alignment and tires. Having your tires inspected is probably one of the most important things you can do. The only thing between you and the road is your tires. Bad tires can cause accidents. Checking the condition of your tires and the steering and stability systems is important in helping to prevent an accident. Getting these checked periodically and especially before a road trip, can help maintain safety. Also checking your tires and making sure they have the right amount of air can help cut down your gas usage as well.

In other words, getting your car checked periodically or when recommended can help maintain the running of your car. It can also catch when things are not running right, sooner rather than when a part goes bad. It helps keep your car safely running and can help cut down the cost of major repairs in the future.