Using Aftermarket Car Parts

When a car rolls off an assembly line, it is built completely with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. If you take your car to be fixed by your dealership, you are going to get OEM parts as well. Your local mechanic, however, is most likely going to be using aftermarket replacement parts. Below are advantages and disadvantages of using aftermarket replacement parts over OEM parts that you might not realize.

Advantages
• Variety. There are companies that specialize in specific parts and some that produce parts all across the board. The advantage is not only the choice of manufacturer, but the availability of and range of prices as well.

• Cheaper. Because of the amount of products to choose from and demand of these products, the prices are usually lower than OEM parts.

• Quality. Even though aftermarket parts are usually cheaper, that doesn't always mean they lack quality. Many crash tests have been done with aftermarket parts and they have held up just as well, if not better, than OEM parts

• Convenience. If using an OEM part, it has to come straight form a manufacturer which could take days or even weeks. Aftermarket parts can be found at your local gas station, auto parts store, or local mechanic.

Disadvantages
• Quality. The saying "you get what you pay for" applies here. There are cheap aftermarket car parts that are made cheaply and if you are not familiar with them, the choice could be difficult.

• Overwhelming. The amount of manufacturers and variety of products leaves the everyday, non-mechanically inclined person overwhelmed. If you are not familiar with producers or types of products you are shopping for, ask the opinion of your local mechanic.

• Warranty. Aftermarkets parts may void the warranty on a car. Check with your manufacturer and with your mechanic to confirm what they will be using for replacement parts.

If you've been in any type of collision and need to replace your car's body panels, you should definitely choose OEM parts. Other parts could run the risk of not having a proper fit or proper crumple zones for crash safety. Also, using aftermarkets parts could decrease your car's value depending on what you have replaced. Always check with your insurance provider to understand their stipulations before replacing anything.

While the OEM parts might seem like an obvious choice because it comes directly from your car's manufacturer, buying the aftermarket parts could prove to be more economical and an overall better product. The most important thing when choosing your car's next replacement part is to shop around. You owe it to your pocketbook and your safety.

Phoenix Auto Glass Repair Shop Celebrates 'Car Care Month' to Keep Drivers Safe

It can be intimidating enough driving on the roads and freeways without having to worry about breaking down in the middle of traffic or in an unsafe environment! Even though you think you have the most reliable car on the road, it doesn't take much neglect to go from safe to sorry!

Regular car maintenance is essential - not only to your car, but to your loved ones as well. More than five percent of vehicle accidents result from unperformed vehicle maintenance; resulting in 2,600 deaths, 100,000 disabling injuries and a cost of more than $2 billion every year according to the Car Care Council.

A recent survey by the Car Care Council found:

• 38% of cars had low or dirty engine oil


• 28% had inadequate cooling protection


• 54% had low tire pressure


• 19% needed new belts


• 16% had dirty air filters

Leased cars are probably the easiest to maintain as they actually include indicator lights on the dashboard that tells you when its time for maintenance. Any new car purchased from a dealership includes the warranty and maintenance schedule; however, the dealership, and your local mechanic, will also send out reminders. For those used cars that might not come with a maintenance schedule, there are websites such as www.Edmunds.com which provide the appropriate information for just about every make and model vehicle. Critical components that are checked at every service interval include automatic transmission fluid, battery and cables, belts, engine air and oil filter, exhaust, fuel filter, hoses, power steering fluid and tire inflation and condition. These should be checked according to the following schedule:

• Every three months or 3,000 miles


• Every six months or 6,000 miles


• Every 9 months or 9,000 miles


• Every 12 months or 12,000 miles

In addition to the above, your car should be checked monthly for lights, tire inflation, check engine light on and windshield washer fluid. October is designated as Fall Car Care Month by the Car Care Council! This means that volunteer car technicians all across the country will help consumers prepare for the upcoming winter season and educate about proper car care safety. Subaru has announced their support of Fall Car Care Month. Owners of Subaru's can bring their cars into local dealerships for free inspections with particular focus on areas that minimize fuel consumption.

Auto Body Customer Satisfaction

When the 2010 AutocheX Premier Achiever Awards for outstanding customer service were handed out earlier this year, the spotlight was placed on auto body shops. A third-party company that specializes in tracking customer service levels for auto body shops across the continent, AutocheX measured the customer service satisfaction ratings of approximately 9,000 auto body repair shops across the country.

Held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas on October 12, 2010, the awards ceremony "honored collision repair facilities that have achieved exceptional customer satisfaction ratings" and that "use the AutocheX service for customer satisfaction."

From the new customer's perspective, having such a recognition associated with the auto body shop s/he is entrusting her/his vehicle with provides some peace of mind of course, but it's not essential. Many shops that don't take part in the ranking service provide superior customer service as well. And all it takes is a little investigative work on the part of the consumer to uncover whether a particular shop is going to meet and even exceed expectations.

Here are some clues to watch out for that indicate an auto body shop makes customer satisfaction a top priority.

1. Does your auto body shop partner with a leading rental car company to swiftly get you into a backup vehicle while your automobile is being repaired?


2. Does your shop have an industry leading warranty? Selecting a collision repair service that possesses one is probably the most important thing you can keep in mind when it comes to vehicle repair.


3. Does your shop guide you through the entire repair process? You shouldn't have to babysit your repair service professionals to ensure the job is done to your specifications. You want a repair shop that's offers you the peace of mind of knowing that you can just hand over your keys and trust that the pros will take care of everything else. The best way to find such a body shop is through local word of mouth. A quality auto body shop's reputation always precedes it.


4. Does your shop hold certification from a reputable outside source that raises the quality, safety and efficiency of auto collision repair for the ultimate benefit of you, the consumer? AutocheX is just one. I-Car is another, and it's the highest in the industry. An international not-for-profit organization, I-Car gathers information about collision repair from the major manufacturers, from collision businesses across the country, from insurance companies, and from makers and suppliers of tools, equipment and materials used to repair vehicles.


5. Does your shop make it a mission every day to get you back on the road quickly and with the confidence that your vehicle has been restored to your complete satisfaction?


6. Is your auto body shop staffed with a team of certified auto body repair technicians?


7. Does your auto body repair shop pledge to use only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and certified alternative components and swear of knock-offs or cheap imitations?

A New Trend in Auto Repair Shops

As the whole world is aware, everyone is trying to find ways to help our environment every day. This trend of "going green" has been found in so many industries in so many different ways. The auto industry has designed hybrid cars to help save on the horrible effects of gas. Companies are offering to accept payments and show bills online so that paper isn't wasted. Grocery stores have reusable bags that you can purchase so the plastic bags aren't going into the garbage. It may be a slow process, but the eco-friendly trend is catching on in all corners of the United States. Lately, the auto industry decided that it was time that they did their part.

We have all been inside an auto repair shop at one point or another. If nothing else, we all have to have our oil changed every three months, so this is not a foreign place. When you step inside, the smells are overwhelming. These are what you have come to associate with auto repair shops. All of the chemicals, lubricants, and coolants that are present in your vehicle are also present, and exposed, in the shop. You can always count on seeing green liquid, dark brown or black, and, of course, the pretty rainbow colors on the floor. The problem is that this work on your vehicle, for the most part, absolutely has to be done. Old motor oil has to be replaced with new oil and so, it will be exposed. What's happening is that auto repair shops are realizing that there is a lot that can be done about the waste and pollution that comes from their shops and they are finally doing something about it.

Of course there are government regulated standards that every repair shop must adhere to. But, as of right now, it is the choice of each individual shop to follow the environmental standards established by green associations. If they do, then they are certified as an official green business. To reach that goal, there are a number of things that a repair shop must do better.

Green repair shops are now using biodegradable cleaners to clean up their spills. They are keeping their parking lots, floors, and bay areas clean at all times so that rain does not carry away toxic wastes into the storm drains. They are using stricter preventative methods so there is less leaking of hazardous materials. This includes the proper use, storage, and disposal of all toxic chemicals to decrease the risk of water, air, and landfill contamination. They are also using low-VOC paint on vehicles. VOC or Volatile Organic Compounds are organic solvents that easily evaporate into the air. They are known to cause immediate and/or long term health problems.

All of these are steps in the right direction to making a healthier environment for everyone. However, one of the greatest breakthroughs is the recycling of motor oil. It is estimated that 180 million gallons of used motor oil are disposed of in an unsafe manner each year. Ground water that is contaminated by only one quart of oil affects up to 250,000 gallons of drinking water. Oil that is poorly disposed of not only ends up in our drinking water, but also in our lakes, rivers, beaches, forests, playgrounds, and eventually, it harms fish and animals. The improper disposal of motor oil, antifreeze, lead-acid batteries, and other components associated with routine auto upkeep are a major contributor to pollution, while repairs done at small shops or in the home are the number one cause of small quantity hazardous waste. So everyone that is adept at changing their own oil is actually making it worse. The likelihood of them having a contract with a company to take their oil and clean it is probably not very likely. This is a big deal.

So, what's happening now is that there are actually companies that take used motor oil and clean it to be reused. When motor oil is used, it does not break down or burn up in the engine. The oil gets contaminated with particles and chemicals that decrease its lubrication value. A process called re-refining cleans the contaminants and used additives out of the used oil. The cleaned oil can now be called base stock. It is then blended with virgin base stock and new additives to make a finished oil product that performs just as well as brand new oil. These companies are now returning more than 140 million gallons of used motor oil to the market place as clean, new motor oil. To sum it all up, oil can now be described as a renewable resource as opposed to its original non-renewable status.

Along with conserving our non-renewable resources, the quality has not been sacrificed in this re-refined oil. First, creating this new oil uses up to 85% less energy to produce than conventional oil. Plus, there is just no way to tell the difference performance-wise in a vehicle. It does exceed the highest North American standards for motor oil performance. It improves fuel economy. It has advanced water protection for an increased vehicle life. It has improved oxidation and sludge resistance. It creates decreased vehicle emissions. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80% and heavy metals emissions by 99.5%. All of this good comes from just saving old motor oil and not dumping it improperly. It's a pretty good trade off.

Again, this is not something that is regulated. Oil does not have to be saved for re-refining, just disposed of properly. However, the benefits are so great, not just to your car, but to the environment. The best step that you can take as a consumer is to make sure you use an auto repair shop that is environmentally responsible. This green initiative is purely voluntary, so you know they really want to make a difference. It is completely appropriate to ask questions of the company you are going to bring your business to. Ask them about their methods of waste disposal. Ask them about their cleaning methods. Ask them what kind of oil they use and if the recycle it. If they are hesitating too long, then it's not something they are passionate about.

Consumers are the ones that can make a difference. If we demand that auto repair shops be run with certain standards, they will all have no choice but to join in the eco-friendly way. They won't even have to be forced by government regulations. If they are not getting the business they used to, they are going to have to compete at the higher standards of the green auto repair shops. It's great that so many are becoming more eco-friendly, that they care and want to make a difference. But, they make up such a small percent of the entire industry. Other businesses may need a little push and that comes from the power of the consumer. You should demand the best for your money and for the environment. Only good can come out of these changes. Eco-friendly shops are out there. Seek them out and support our environment. Clean changes are good changes.

Why People Are Becoming Interested in Car Mechanic School

Since the turn of the century, Americans have always had an intense fascination with cars. Car aficionados look forward to owning the latest and most exotic automobiles year after year, and are willing to shell out the cash to drive them. Those who can't pay top dollar on the other hand, are more than willing to just ogle or, even better, touch the cars. NASCAR has also become an immensely popular sport amongst both young Americans and the older generation-in fact, cars are probably the subject that bridges the age gap between the two.

With this passion for automobiles, it's no wonder why the services of auto mechanics are always in demand. Even with the recession, the auto repair sector has remained relatively stable. This is also the reason why the typical car mechanic school in the country has seen a gradual increase in enrollees during the past few years.

As the technology used in automobiles continues to advance, so too shall the training of auto mechanics. Gone are the days when these men, and women, can get by with only a rudimentary knowledge of how cars work, and why they might choke in the middle of the street. The training offered by the average car mechanic school has indeed become a challenging science of its own, and entire courses and programs are dedicated to specific aspects of the trade.

People are enrolling in their nearest car mechanic school not just because of a desire to have a lucrative career, but also because they want to save money on auto repair costs. The services of mechanics can take a big chunk out of any person's budget, so it definitely pays to be able to work on one's own car.

Website for Regular Business

It was February 1995, sales budget time in my previous employment. The president of my former employer asked his financial advisor if it was a good idea that all employees would have their own PC. One week later, his advisor came to see the president. The advisor recommended to the president that providing 1 PC to every 2 employee is the most appropriate. The president was not happy about his proposal. He told advisor that we call the device PERSONAL computer, because each PERSON has his own. 1 month later, the company decided to give 1 PC to each employee. This president had his vision how people would work in next 5 - 10 years.

PC was a gadget of technology people 15 years ago. Ordinary people did not use it if not forced to use it for business requirement. Internet and Websites were for computer geeks who were in early stage of Internet Business or large companies with deep pocket.

Almost everybody has Personal Computer, today. Everybody has a connection to Internet no matter where he happened to be. PC became the PERSONAL computer in its real meaning. As it evolves, it has changed use and user profiles. Students communicate with their teachers via emails. My wife's niece, who is originally from China, has a membership in 3 Social Networking Sites. She is planning to build her own blog, soon.

As PC became more powerful, connections to Internet are easy, there is a lot of web-design software or services everywhere, it starts to make more sense for regular small or medium size business people to make use of Internet and Website. Let me explain more in concrete. If you own a small glossary store in downtown San Francisco, carrying some ethnic products, such as Soy Soup for Japanese travelers, it makes sense for you to have your own website and promote it to Japanese travelers. Businesses, such as Gas Station, Car Repair Shops, or Car Body shops, would be greatly benefited, if they have web pages. They can broadcast their promotions for smog check special price of the week. They can put out special price of, for example, auto body cleaners.

Restaurants and Coffee Shops are perfect people who will take advantage of their own Website, if they have one. Since their specials change daily basis, it make more sense if they to broadcast their menu through Internet. Their customers can learn know that their special of that day is salmon steak without visiting the restaurant. It will drive more customers to go to the restaurant than before.

Using Internet and Website costs less than printing paper base advertisement. If a business owner signs up with advertisement agent, he needs to pay basic cost for membership and he is not sure what is going on with his agent. Having his own website allows the owner to get statistics of visits, page views, or unique views. Business owner can analyze what he should do to promote his business. If someone asks him what business he carries on the street, airport, or train station, he does not have to make printed papers. He can write down his website URL so that the person asked will be able to take a look later. He could print his URL on his business cards. He can print it if someone requests him to do so.

It sounds terrific for regular business people to own their websites. The next question is what will be their challenge. Yes, there are challenges. The largest challenge is to establish basic traffic to their sites and maintain it. They can use contact lists, email addresses, Social Networking Service for starting. They can use free or inexpensive web traffic solution, tools, or services available for forming and maintaining traffic. They can ask professional help to do so, too.

Researching a Company for an Auto Mechanic

In the first part of this post we talked about what can go wrong if you do not analyze your future employer. Let's set aside speaking about the implications of not doing homework on the firm for the moment and let us get into the means of going about educating yourself.

Onto the list.

1. Start on the web
Should you be on this website then you are without a doubt way ahead of the game. By reading about the auto technician industry and reading the information provided all through this site then you've done the majority of the initial groundwork.

If you are applying to a large firm such as Ford or Honda then you need to go to the company website and find out about it as much as you can. What should you search for on the website? Consider the following points:

* Does the organization function only in the united states, if no then where else, if yes then why they don't grow?
* Any new technologies or automobiles coming in through the pipeline?
* How can you assist with these new technologies.
* Is the organization dependable enough to withstand a difficult economy? (By looking into some recent financial articles about your firm you will easily find this)

2. Ask your friends, or your friends' friends
Your friends could be a great source of information especially if they work in the industry. This method will enable you to get a look into the business culture which is essential to take into account before making your final decision. If you do not have any friends who work directly in car repairs then reach out further and ask them if they know anybody. This will likely increase your web of possible relationships 10-fold.

3. Ask your instructors and classmates (if applicable)
For anyone who is enrolled in a degree program at a community college or at a trade school then you have a wealth of information right at your fingertips. With most of your professors having worked in the profession, you will receive answers to many of your questions. For those who have a teacher who actually worked where you want to work then you can ask for a recommendation (provided you are a good student).

4. Visit repair shops and ask around
There isn't anything wrong with going to your local auto shop and asking some questions. Make an effort to go at a time when they seem the least busy and just ask if it would be OK to talk with the manager or an employee for several minutes. Say you are interested in this line of work and want to gather more info from professionals in the industry. You must have your questions ready in advance so you don't seem to them like wasting their time by trying to come up with questions on the spot.

By taking those four points into account you will have a good idea of the organization you want to work for. You can now make the decision whether you would be a good fit for the firm and more importantly whether the firm is a good fit for you.

Can I Get My Windshield Tinted?

The front windshield is usually the biggest window in a car or truck and will transmit the greatest amount of heat. In addition, you will also get an excessive amount of glare which will reduce visibility in most cases. In the past, when you tinted the front windshield, you were limited to using darker dyed films. These films carried many disadvantages that have been overcome by today's advancement in film technologies.

Disadvantages of dyed films applied to windshields

• Severe obstruction of visibility creating a serious safety hazard. Especially during night driving.
• Tinted films on windshields are illegal in all states.
• Dyed films absorb heat rather than reflect it. This type of technology creates excessive and unnecessary heat stress on the glass resulting in poor heat rejecting performance and possible cracked glass.
• Reduced life expectancy of the films due to unstable molecular structures in the dye combined with extreme sun and U.V. exposure due to angle of the glass in relationship to the sun.

Due to recent technological advances in window films pioneered primarily by 3M, These disadvantages all have been overcome. 3M has developed a new, clear and dye free, film called Crystalline that blocks 97.5% of Infrared light which is responsible for a large majority of heat transmission. It is a 90% Variable Light Transmission (VLT) film that has a 33% heat rejection. This is equivalent or even superior to the heat reduction properties of most films in the darker category.

Crystalline now comes in 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% and 90% VLT, giving you anywhere from 33% to 66% heat rejection. The darkest of all dyed films ( limo tint ) will only produce on average 53% heat reduction.

You can tint your windshield legally in Florida and some other states if you get a medical exception from your doctor then take it to the clerk of courts or DMV for the medical exception.

Without that medical exception even though D.O.T says it's legal to tint your windshields long as its not darker than 70% you will not be legal. Anything on the front windshield is illegal even if it is completely clear and does not obstruct your view. Now if they cant see it and they don't know its there can you get away with it? We tint a lot of windshields with clear film and have never heard of any of our customers getting a ticket.

Advantages of 3m Crystalline films on Windshields

• Completely clear and will not obstruct vision day or night.
• Clear films are visually undetectable.
• Significant glare reduction and improved visibility.
• Reflects heat rather than absorbing it.
• Does not create unnecessary heat loads on glass.
• Significant increase in life expectancy backed by a lifetime warranty.
• Will not fade or change colors as with dyed films.
• Protects interior from fading caused by U.V. light and heat.

What to Look For in a Reputable Auto Mechanic

You're driving down the street, and you hear a squeak, or a knock, or some other foreign sound that indicates your formerly healthy automobile is ailing. You may need the brakes checked or the oil changed, or maybe it's time to repair the transmission or get new tires. If these are not things you're capable of doing on your own, it's time to bring the car into your local mechanic. Question is, which one?

Your car is important - without transportation, you're unable to get to work and get errands completed. Without your car you can't ferry the kids to school or dance practice, and date night is reduced to a mere dream. If you need repairs, you need to make sure you hire the right auto care company to handle your car. If you don't have a regular service, here are a few factors to consider before you make that appointment:

1) Longevity. How long has the garage been in business? It is a name synonymous with your community?

2) Association. Is the auto repair shop associated with a particular automotive brand, like AC Delco or NAPA? Is the garage part of a reputable car dealership that handles your make?

3) Referrals. Where do your friends and family take their cars when they need servicing?

4) Reviews. If you have access to sites like Angie's List, Yelp, or the reviews at Google Local, you can determine public opinion of particular garages and services.

5) Price. How much does the garage charge for services? Are their packages available or is everything a la carte?

When your car needs repair, put it in good hands. Research your area repair service shops and determine through reviews and personal recommendations which one is best for you.

The Importance of Your Car Windscreen

The car windscreen is a very important part of any car and the unfortunate thing is that they are prone to damage. The windscreen is obviously made of glass which is a fragile material by nature, this means that we need to take extra care when driving and ensure that the windscreen is in perfect condition each time we turn the engine on to prevent further problems.

Modern windscreens are well made and designed to be dual layered, it also aids in the rigidity of the structure of the car. You are probably seeing why the windscreen is an important part of any car and why it needs to be taken care of. As with many modern products it goes through intense quality checking to reduce the chance of it being easily damaged. The windscreen though, takes a lot of wear and tear in part due to the wiper blades.

This time of year also adds to the problems as the cold weather means we need to scrape the frost off the windscreen which increases the chances of it becoming scratched. There also tends to be more grit and stones on the road than usual and these can easily flick up from the road and chip the windscreen, particularly when driving at speed for example on the motorway. It is really important that you drive with a clear screen because if there are chips or it is dirty, your vision will be impaired which could quickly lead to an accident.

A stone chip is the most common form of damage when it comes to windscreens. There are many road works taking place across the country and this normally means gravel, grit and other debris on the road. When driving around areas with poor road surfaces of which are covered in loose surface materials, take extra care and drive slowly so the stones are less likely to get flicked up on to the windscreen and potentially chipping or cracking it.

Chips in a windscreen can start off as a minor problem but they can quickly turn into a bigger problem as the chip cracks the glass surface. This is why it is very important to get the chip repaired as soon as you notice it. The main reason is cost as getting a chip repaired is relatively cheap and some companies will do it for free if you have the right insurance cover. Whereas if you leave it and the windscreen shatters, getting a new windscreen fitted can cost hundreds of pounds depending on the model of the car. It is also more environmentally friendly to get a chip fixed as your original windscreen will not have to be disposed of.

Keep Your Vehicle's Paint Looking Good!

Whether you vehicle is old or new chances are you want it to look good! With that said there are many different ways to keep it looking good and different reasons why you want it to look good. It can sometimes be the simple things that keep your car in good condition. For example, getting your oil changed is a simple way to keep your engine going good for a long time. However, we are talking more about the outside appearance. To start with you should keep your vehicles paints looking great! You will find a few solutions and reasons to do so if you read on.

First of all you should start by washing your car on a regular basis. This keeps the paint clean and helps protect the coating. If you allow bugs, sap, and dirt to collect on your car's paint it starts breaking down the coating and your paint can dull or worse. So, the easiest way to protect your cars paint is by washing it which does not take a lot of time and you can easily do it yourself.

On top of washing your vehicle you should wax your vehicle quite regularly as well. A good wax every now and then can keep your vehicle looking brand new for years and years. Many people seem to overlook this process since they think it takes a long time. But in reality it doesn't take long at all if you keep up with it. The wax protects the paint from breaking down and keeps your vehicles paint looking shiny. It is well worth the time and effort of waxing.

The two above mentioned solutions you can do yourself quite simply. However if you don't have the time or desire to do it yourself you will gain the benefits of these two services which are included in a car detail. You can get a professional to do the work for you; however it will cost you a bit more.

Another way to keep your vehicles paint looking good is by taking care of any chips or cracks in your vehicles paint. These chips and cracks can happen easily from road debris or a little parking lot mishap. However if you don't get them taken care of they can cause the area around them to begin rusting. Your paint acts as a sealant for the steel that is under it, so if the paint isn't there, that steel starts rusting which is not good for your vehicle. It also just doesn't look good to have chips and cracks in your paint job. To avoid having to fix chips and cracks you may consider getting a 3M Clear bra put on your car to protect areas that are prone to having that happen, like your bumper.

Any professional auto body shop should be able to offer all the services mentioned above to keep your vehicles paint looking good. What are you waiting for; after all you want your vehicles paint to look good for a long time!

Auto Careers - Do You Have What It Takes to Become an Auto Body Collision Estimator?

You would like to become a mechanic, but which kind? Have you given any thought to the type of work that you'll do after graduation? Some automotive schools give students a chance to specialize as auto body collision estimators.

One oft-cited reason for which technicians seek further training from automotive schools to work as an estimator is job stability. The sad fact is that as long as there are cars on the road, there will be car crashes. Furthermore, the number of car crashes is not thought to diminish during a recession. Hence why auto body collision estimator is said to be one of the more stable and recession-proof auto careers.

Students who enroll in auto body collision estimator programs should develop the following skills.

Good observation skills

Auto body schools teach future estimators to be observant. When they are presented with a vehicle that has been in a crash, they must study it closely to determine the full extent of the damage. Underestimating or overestimating the damage can have negative consequences for all parties involved.

Good understanding of costs

Auto body schools teach students who have already become a mechanic how to estimate the cost of repairs to vehicles that have withstood a collision. For students to succeed at this most demanding of auto careers, they must have a strong knowledge of the actual costs associated with repairing a vehicle. They must have a sense of whether or not it would make more sense to replace or repair each broken part. In some cases, they must decide whether or not to replace or repair an entire vehicle.

An appreciation of beauty

Most people who become a mechanic do so out of an interest for what is under the front hood. But mechanics who seek additional training from auto body schools to become a collision estimator must also have an interest in the exterior of a vehicle. What repairs does the vehicle need to its body? Will it need to be painted? With what kind of paint?

Good communication skills

Most graduates of auto body schools who pursue this kind of work don't work entirely on their own. In some instances, they consult with colleagues who carry out repairs before putting a price tag or timeline on any repair jobs. An example of people employed in different automotive careers helping one another out!

Good organizational skills

Not only do the graduates of auto body schools who pursue this kind of work need to assess damages, they need to record their assessments in an organized fashion - for insurance companies, individual clients, etc.

If you think you have what it takes to become an estimator after having become a mechanic, contact one of the auto body schools near you.

Preparing Your Vehicle For a Long Trip

Personally, I prefer to get to my destination; instead of siting on the side of the road waiting for the tow truck. Preparing your car for the trip is simple. This article is intended to briefly educate on how simple checks will keep you moving forward. Read on.

Automobiles are my specialty. I repair and service an average of one to five a day, with a comeback rate of 2%. Only 2 out of 100 vehicles return to me because of my mistake or a part failure. I take pride in educating auto owners about the importance of a reliable automobile. In order to prepare yourself for a successful commute on a long trip use a basic check list.

- Check the oil, you should check the oil on your car or truck once a week, but absolutely check it before a long drive.

- Check the tires, automotive tires will lose air over time. This can result in a major problem on the road, like a blow-out. Tires will malfunction if not inflated properly.

- Check the coolant, overheating can be damaging to the vehicles engine resulting in roadside assistance.

- Inspect the belts & hoses, a belt braking can cause a number of things; including battery charging and power steering malfunction.

In summary, I have briefly explained some basic checks on your car that should be performed, before a long trip. Make sure to consult a qualified auto service mechanic for further assistance. The auto mechanic should be able to assist you with other procedures that are necessary to make your automobile road worthy. Keep your ride off of the hook and have a save trip.

Auto Glass Repair - Some Do it Yourself Tips

It's a beautiful day; the birds are singing, you love your life, job, children, everything. You're singing along to your favorite tune driving down the freeway, when BAM! A rock flies through the air and lands smack dab in the middle of your windshield. What can you do? Well, depending on the extent of the damage, it is quite possible to repair a the place that is cracked or chipped. In this article, we will outline instructions set in place to help you perform a DIY auto glass repair.

Listen closely:

Step 1 - Begin by purchasing a windshield repair kit through your local auto supply shop. These bundles typically include a small bottle of resin, suction cup, and various rags. Most are fairly inexpensive.

Step 2 - Make sure the surface of your windshield is clean. Using a razor, pick out any loose, or small pieces of glass from the chip or crack. Wipe the area with window cleaner and allow drying.

Step 3 - Attach your suction cup to the problem area. Make sure the hole is directly over the chipped surface. Press the device down toward the glass and slide the arms of the X-frame in order to adjust the position of the hole if needed.

Step 4 - Insert the threaded plastic tube into the hole on the suction device and screw it in until it is tight. Take a minute to enter the car to make certain the rubber tip of the tube is placed just above the chip.

Step 5 - Place the resin tube into the tube situated in the suction device. Be sure that the resin cap is open. Squeeze roughly three drops of resin into the tube and onto the crack or chip. Next, take the plastic tube's center plunger and twist all the way down, pushing the resin into the chip.

Step 6 - Wait a few minutes in order to allow the resin to settle and remove the entire kit from the windshield. Place a sheet of clear finishing film over the surface, and using the dull side of the razor, smooth the resin over the crack or chip.

Step 7 - Remove the finishing film after a 10 minute period and make sure the resin had dried completely. Scrape away any excess resin from the surface.

And that's it! Congratulations on your new windshield repair. You can rely on it and sit back and enjoy.

How to Change a Brake Pad

You will be pleased to learn that the disc brake pads of your car can be easily and quickly changed without the use of particular tools. This will also save you a good amount of money. Below is how you can do this:

First, the lug nuts should be loosened on the wheel then the car jacked up and a jack stand placed under the frame of the car. The jack should be lowered to make the jack stand bear the weight. Remove the lug nuts and then the wheel. This give you access to the brake and you can reach under the car easily.

Locate the 'pins' or slider bolts which fasten the caliper. Usually, only the lower bolt should be removed and this slides out easily although the process may be long.

The caliper will pivot up. The hydraulic line (rubber hose) will bend to accommodate this therefore the hose should not be disconnected.

Here the brake pads' thickness can be checked to confirm the need to change them. Majority of brake pads have little metal tabs (metal wear indicators) which squeak when rotors are contacted by these tabs. Whether or not they are touching, if the rubbing material has less than or equal to 1/8th thickness of inch, the pads needs to be changed.

When the brake pads are exposed with the retaining clips holding them in place loosely, the used brake pads can slide out easily.

New clips usually come with new pads making the pads to easily glide back and forth. Retaining screws are not available and clips simply snap into place. Bear in mind that the clips match up properly as they are right-handed clips different from the left-handed ones.

Generally, a little parcel of grease that is graphite-based comes with the new brake pads. This should be applied to the new brake clips to prevent squeaking.

The replacing process is as easy as the sliding out of the old pads but the new clips are sometimes tighter. The applied grease will allow the ears of the pad to slide comfortably into place.

Before the caliper can be lowered into its place, the pistons have to be pushed back so the new and thicker pads will be cleared.

The slider bolt should be reinstalled and then re-tightened. The car wheels should be straightened and the tire remounted. Tighten the lugs.

All the above steps should be repeated for the front brake's next side. The car should be test driven in a safe situation to ensure that the replacement was successful. The driver should be particularly careful when making the very first couple stops.

Two Auto Repair Jobs That You Can Do On Your Own

If there is something wrong with your motor vehicle and you know little about cars then you should take it into an auto repair shop forthwith. If there is a strange noise or a strange odor then you need it looked at by a qualified mechanic without delay. At the same time though you know how expensive it can be to take your car into a shop to have it assessed and to have work completed on it.

Before you get ready to shell out some cash to get a part fixed on your automobile consider what minor maintenance you can do yourself. You do not have to have a mechanic's mind, training or hands in order to do some of the most basic jobs on your car. As long as you are capable of following simple instructions that are found in your owner's manual then you should be able to do some basic repair work. Just think of the money you will save!

If you start to do a task such as changing the battery in your engine and suddenly you find yourself stumped as to what to do next or what goes where then do not hesitate to take your car into a shop in your area. You do not want to mess around with anything that you cannot understand or figure out!

Replacing a dead battery is one simple auto repair that may be easier for some individuals to do than others. Any number of things can cause a battery to die. It will cost you in the range of $20 to $30 to install a new battery. When you change the battery read over your manual carefully before you attempt to start disconnecting anything. It is also important that you protect your eyes.

If you know people who change their own oil and you wish you could do that then you can! Take a look at your owner's manual to find out when the oil needs to be changed in your car based upon the mileage. The manual should also inform you of the type of oil you need and how much. Choosing to go with premium oil maybe a little more costly but the additional protection it offers your car's engine will be well worth it.

When you replace the oil make sure that you replace the filter. To do an oil change you will require some very simple tools such as a filter wrench if you have an older model car, an adjustable wrench and a container that is sealable for the old oil.

To know when it is time to make this auto repair you need to check your oil on a frequent basis. Take the dip stick out of the engine and give it a look. If however you find oil leaks beneath your motor vehicle then you should take it into a mechanic.

Car Gearbox Repairs - Say Goodbye to Gearbox Problems of the Past

Having a faulty gearbox can make driving very dangerous and it is often hard for faithful car owners to believe there might be something wrong with their existing gearbox. Car gearbox repairs will help ensure you have a safe and reliable motoring experience, so it is important to take the time to get any gearbox problems properly checked.

Don't Underestimate The Importance Of Your Gearbox

Many motorists don't realise the importance of ensuring the car gearbox is in good working order. However, without expert attention on your vehicle, it can often be hard knowing when you might need professional car gearbox repairs. Some gearbox problems can go undetected whereas others might be knowingly aware that something isn't quite right. Gearbox problems can haunt drivers for a lengthy period of time and it can be difficult coming to terms with having a primary car function that needs attention, which is why many assume that it might be an unnecessary expense and sideline their plans of getting their vehicle checked over. Nowadays, however, there are quick and easy solutions to making sure you never have gearbox problems again.

Save Money With Great Vehicle Solutions

In the current climate, it is important to try and save money and having a new gearbox fitted might just overstretch your budget slightly. That's why there are specialist centres that can repair car gearboxes without having to necessarily replace them. This makes it much easier on the bank balance of the customer. It is essential to be able to find a centre that can offer a wide range of solutions to everyday gearbox problems, with the professional expertise you would expect when handing your car over to be repaired.

Reconditioned Options Are Available

It may be that you need a new gearbox fitted, but don't want to pay the price for the privilege. Perhaps it is time to take a look at reconditioned gearboxes that offer a repaired gearbox solution at a fraction of the price. Many drivers assume that a new gearbox is the only way to go, but with the availability of reconditioned gearboxes, car gearbox repairs suddenly sound affordable. Speak with a mechanic and they will be able to identify the right solution for your vehicle, be it a small minor car gearbox repair or a healthy new gearbox to really get your motor moving again...

Step On It And Get Your Gearbox Checked!

Gearbox problems can affect your car in many ways, from the handling to the long-term damage of not having the issue looked at sooner. The longer the problem is left, the more problems it could cause for your car. Naturally, regular vehicle checks are important and can be conducted by a reliable mechanic, but it is always worthwhile keeping your eyes and ears open to any anomalies with the way your car runs.

Don't let car gearbox repairs leave you in a motoring haze - with the professional vehicle solutions from a respected car mechanic workshop, you can say goodbye to gearbox problems of the past.

Electric Sanders - Various Types and Their Uses

Are you confused by the different types of electric sanders that are available and unable to decide which one would be best for your application? Let's have a look at the various types available and their applications.

繚 Belt Sander

It employs a continuous moving belt driven by two rollers. It is primarily used on rough flat surfaces and is not aimed at finishing work. Move with the grain of the wood. It comes in different sizes such as 3" x 18", 3" x 21", 3" x 24" and 4" x 24", where the first number refers to the width of the belt and the second number refers to the overall length of the belt. Some units offer variable speeds, which can be confusing as specifications are quoted in either imperial or metric units, depending where you are in the world. It's either measured in feet per minute (fpm) or in metres per minute (m/min).

繚 Disk Sander

Quite a simple application - it's either bench mounted or it doubles up as an angle grinder such as used by auto body repair shops.

繚 Pad Sander

The pad sander, also known as the palm sander as it fits in the palm of the hand, comes in two varieties:

Orbital - also known as a sheet sander as it uses rectangular sheets that can be cut out of standard sandpaper sheets. As the pad moves back and forth, it has to move with the grain.

Random orbit - It has the ability to sand in a completely random orbit, at speeds of up to 12,000 revolutions per minute. This random motion allows the sander to leave a smooth finish without the sanding marks that disk sanders or belt sanders leave behind. They are more aggressive than the orbital sander and can be moved across the grain in any direction.

繚 Detail Sander

Also known as a finishing sander. It typically has a triangular base plate so as to fit into nooks and tight corners.

繚 Finger Sander

A belt sander with a very narrow belt (e.g. 12.5 mm) to fit into narrow spaces.

Auto Repair - Finding The Best

Getting the best kind of work done on your car when it needs it is the best thing that you can do for your vehicle. You want to keep it road worthy by giving it all the checkups and everything, but sometimes things just happen, parts break down and breaks fail. There can always be something that happens to a car and if you aren't careful, things can get really messy for you. You need to be really smart about where you go and the companies that you trust with your car and your money.

Look around

Make sure to keep your eyes open for good deals and sometimes that might mean calling around or going online to find the best deals that you can. Don't just go with the first place that is close to your house because you think it's more convenient. You want to really look around and get an idea of what the base line price of things will cost you and then go to a place that not only do you feel comfortable, but also where you are going to get the best quality work for the least amount of money.

Review, Review, Review

When you compare shops online, you will find sections that will allow you to read conversation, feedback and reviews of actual customers about companies that are doing business in town. You will get honest reports about how they treat their customers and how they conduct business as a whole. You can get people talking about how much business they do and how good their service actually is. More importantly, you can get reviews on how much they charge for things, which is exactly what you want to be looking for. Reviews truly allow you to pick and choose, which helps you end up with right place for you and your needs.

Know your car

Most people don't actually pay attention to their cars until something is wrong and that's something that really needs to be changed. When you have a vehicle, pay attention while driving and pay attention to how the car sounds and feels like. Get to know the feeling of the car and truly taking a sort of inventory in your mind about how things sound and feel, so that if anything is wrong, you will be able to tell right away and that will help a great deal to keep costs down when it comes to maintaining your car in the first place. Make sure that you actually take your car in for regular maintenance as well, because this will prevent piling up work for you.

In Conclusion

When you are looking for the best in keeping your car running smoothly, find a place that not only sells you the best Auto Parts, but will also offer you the best rate on services and labor. Once you have found a place that you can trust, there is no reason why you can't stay with them through the life of your car.

Mistakes To Avoid At The Auto Repair Shop

Many problems at the repair shop occur because of a failure to properly communicate your car's symptoms. Being able to be as specific as possible can greatly help your mechanic. Try to note what you see, smell, hear, and feel. It can also be helpful to remember where the symptom occurred and what happened just before. For example, where you driving over a bumpy road when the sensor light went on? Notice how many times roughly the symptoms have occurred. Inform your mechanic if there were any other recent repairs performed. In some instances, a problem could be related to the last repair.

One of the biggest mistakes is when a customer sets unrealistic expectations. If you are scheduled to go on a long road trip or vacation, do not bring a car in for repairs at the last-minute before your trip. It is unwise to expect a repair facility to fix your brakes or perform a major service two hours or less before you leave. In our business, we always try to accommodate customers, we know life happens and things can unexpectedly occur. Certain repair jobs can take two or more hours to complete. It is a good idea to allow enough time for your repair. Call and ask how long the work could take. Be prepared to arrange for a ride to and from the repair facility, if the wait is more than you expected. Keep in mind that you expect the mechanic to do the job right. Fair scheduling is needed to accommodate receiving the best service.

You will have a better experience by cleaning out your car interior before leaving it for repairs. If you have strollers, shopping bags, sports equipment or tools loaded in the back, your mechanic may have to remove those items to reach a failed part or conduct a proper wheel alignment. Some materials are so heavy they may not be able to get your vehicle up on a lift. If a mechanic needs to spend time unloading your vehicle, this counts in your repair time. Save time and money by bringing your car in with all unnecessary items removed.

Make sure the contact information you give to the repair shop is a phone number you can be quickly reached at. If your shop is unable to contact you in a timely fashion to approve a repair, your vehicle may be left to sit. Making yourself available for prompt response helps to schedule the ordering of needed materials to execute your repair in a timely fashion.

Take into consideration all the things you can do to contribute to saving time and money by following the above advice. A good independent shop will listen and work with their customer and will be focused on customer satisfaction.

Auto Glass Replacement - For Safety And Maintenance

To understand the importance of auto glass replacement services, it is vital to understand a car accident scenario. More so, windshield replacement is important to ensure the safety of driver and the passengers against wind, road debris, rain or any other harsh climatic conditions.

In this article, we will discuss some useful facts related to safety and maintenance aspects of auto glass replacement. Go through the points discussed below.

Safety
Auto service professionals are known to come with deep knowledge of the products as well as your vehicle. They are trained how to make best use of adhesives which are meant to secure the windshield to the vehicle frame. They know how to detect and treat corrosion to prevent future issues due to the bond between the vehicle frame and windshield.

As far as knowledge of vehicle is concerned, the technicians of leading auto service centers are known to be trained continuously to understand clearly and follow different safety requirements for various vehicle models from leading manufacturers. They come with experience to work with distinct configuration and style of auto glass weather seals as well as window regulators to make sure the tight fit is done in order to hold water leaks or any kind of noise issues in the vehicle.

Maintenance
Considering auto glass repair and replacements, service providers offer different kinds of maintenance services like convertible top and rag-top repair, interior upholstery repair, water leak troubleshooting and repair, sunroof leak detection and sunroof replacement, windshield repair and maintenance, and much more.

Water can cause huge damage to any vehicle. Even, a small leak can cause problems to various electrical and metal components in the vehicle. And the best thing that can be done here is to get the fix done immediately. Some common water leaks causes include worn or old seals around the windows and doors. And the rubber seals around the windows wear out eventually if the vehicle is not taken to the garage for required maintenance tasks.

If you find yourself in the need of a professional auto glass repair services provider, quality and safety should be your major concerns. In other words, you should go through the entire features and capabilities of leading service experts and go with the one that suits you the best. A qualified service provider is known to be current with all safety standards and advancements for all kinds of repair or replacement work needed in a vehicle.

What Will Void Your Car Warranty?

Car warranties are indeed a great investment as car repairs demand hefty amounts to be paid and often at an unexpected time. However, you may find you're disappointed if you happen to void your car warranty.

New and extended car warranties are made available by many companies. But along with these auto warranties are also a few instructions or situations that may cause your car warranty to be voided. For example, the car is exposed to flooding or if any paperwork shows 'off-roading' then the car warranty possessed by your vehicle may become voided.

Also, most American manufacturers generally provide 3 years or 36,000 miles for coverage under a warranty. Nonetheless, as soon as you cross any of these mileage or time limits, your car warranty becomes invalid or is declared to be void.

Besides, there are also a few car owners who fear that they may void their warranty, if they don't get their car serviced by their dealer only. Such people can take a sigh of relief due to the Federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. It states that the car owner doesn't have any such obligation and that they are free to get their vehicle serviced by their favorite independent and skilled service station, without losing the warranty on their car.

Furthermore, you can employ quality car parts from any brand name for car service. So, it isn't necessary for you to employ only original car equipment by the manufacturer such as brakes, filters oil, spark plugs and others unless they are made available for free.

But it is necessary to make sure that the service receipts that you have must include the odometer reading, date, identification number and model of the vehicle. Also, brand names of different parts that are used must be mentioned on the receipt to avoid any inconvenience later.

Moreover, there are also some car owners who fear their car warranty can become void because of any cosmetic work done on their car from anywhere else apart from the manufacturer. But there is no such thing. You can get the cosmetic work done on your vehicle and still keep your car warranty intact.

If you want to make sure that you don't make a mistake that may lead to void car warranty, it is advisable to get your vehicle serviced at regular intervals as suggested by the warranty provider. Also, it is advisable to read the warranty manual or owner's booklet made available by the warranty provider. It is also important to keep all records carefully that relate to your car servicing or warranty.

How to Buy a Junkyard Transmission

Whenever you are faced with a potential, unexpected car repair it can be a stressful task. There are certain mechanical failures that may make you panic - mainly the engine and transmission. It is common knowledge that repairs on either of these components are very costly and you may not have the money to take the car to the shop. The good news is you need not panic as there is another option that can sometimes cut your costs in half.

If you need transmission repair there are a few options to consider:

• Take the vehicle to an auto repair shop and pay for parts and labor
• Buy your new parts from the auto store and do the repairs yourself
• Buy used auto parts and have an auto repair shop do labor
• Buy used auto parts and do the repair yourself

The first option of using a repair shop will always be the most costly option. You will pay more for parts as well as labor. Your second option will save you some money by only requiring out of pocket funds for new parts. However, be advised that new auto parts are often marked up quite a bit. Your third and fourth options are the best choices if you are looking to lower your budget significantly. Let's discuss them in more detail.

Buying used auto parts makes some people feel uneasy. This should not be a problem if you go to a trusted and experienced junkyard. There, you can often find almost-new parts and components that have significant years and miles left on them. If you need a used transmission, an auto salvage yard should be your first stop, regardless of whether you want to do the actual repairs yourself or have the transmission installed professionally. Before you go to the junkyard you should follow these steps:

• Make sure you know what you are looking for. Consult your car's manual to determine the exact type of transmission that your car has and the specifications you need.

• Determine what actual parts you need. If you have an automatic transmission, look for other components that are needed such as a torque converter. If you have a manual transmission, you may need a new clutch in addition to the exact transmission. You can always call the car manufacturer to get full details on what you need so that you have all proper parts assembled before your repair.

• Carefully examine all parts. When you visit the junkyard, look at all of the components of the transmission. Cycle through all gears of the transmission and make sure that you do not hear any suspect noises, especially grinding. It should be fairly easy to get through all gears. If you have difficulty doing so, you should probably move on to the next potential prospect. Look for clean oil between the gears. You should also examine the input and output shafts to make sure the input shaft is not too loose and the output rotates easily.

If you follow these easy steps, purchasing a junkyard transmission and other used auto parts will greatly cut your costs and allow you to make your transmission repairs much more affordable - whether you do it yourself or just get used parts and take them to your repair shop.

Auto Repair Quotes

The auto repair quotes that you get for your automobile vary with the service provider. There are many auto service providers who are happy to give you auto repair quotes. You can either get them from the service provider in your locality or from the leading auto repair company in your area.

Before getting a quote, make a preliminary list of repairs that need to be done that you know of. If you are not clear as to what you need, you may end up spending wasted time and money of what could have been just a simple repair. Go to your local mechanic for quotes before deciding on where to take your automobile. They will give you an idea as to exactly what expenses are involved, and what repairs are critical, as opposed to not necessary. You may decide to stick with your mechanic or go to a dealer for repairs. Whatever you decide, you'll have valuable information in your hands regarding the repairs that need to be done, and what one mechanic would charge to do the repairs.

There are also free checkup camps that are held at major car dealer manufacturers. Here, your car will be evaluated for problems at no charge to you. If problems are found, these events may even offer discounts on parts and repairs that you can take advantage of. They will also give you repair quotes that you can pass on to a repair shop.

If you know what is the kind of repair that is needed for your car, then you can get auto repair quotes online on websites dedicated for autos. All you have to do is type in information about you and your car and what repairs need to be done. You will receive instant auto repair online quotes. You can get auto repair quotes from multiple vendors and compare them to get the best deal.

Purchasing a Window For Auto Window Repair

When looking to purchase a new window window, shop around as much as you can. I Understand that this can be a real emergency where you do not have time to do this, if this is the case then why not begin with the least expensive places? The most inexpensive places to look for a new window are the wrecking yard where you can get one for very cheap, or an auto body shop. Don't ask the body shop to purchase a new one, but instead ask them if they have any totaled cars which have intact windows which you can take or purchase for a smaller fee. As long as the window comes from the same make and model and is not damaged this shouldn't be a problem. If you have a bit more time, try looking on eBay or Craigslist.

If you are uncomfortable purchasing a window from the above sources, call around, see who will give you a price. Check the internet for prices as well. There is really no reason why a mechanic would need to see your car in order to give a price on a window. Just be sure that you have the years, make and model number handy, as well as note any other options. You never know what they will ask. When I used to get tires for an old car, they always asked me what size engine it had! That made no sense to me, and it may not make sense to you, but try to be prepared with all the facts. If your make and model came with different engine options, take note of which one you have.

Try to be as prepared as possible when shopping around for your window. Know all of the information regarding your car as well as which window is broken. You may even wish to carry around your car's manual with you as you go on your travels.

Car Accident Settlements - How to Negotiate More Money With the Auto Insurance Adjuster

To get more money from your car accident settlements, you need to understand how to negotiate with an auto claims adjuster.

Negotiating with an auto claims adjuster is tough. If you are unprepared, then you can end up losing thousands of dollars in your car accident claims.

To begin you need to know...

Who is the Car Insurance Adjuster?
The auto claims adjuster is the person who will evaluate what your auto accident settlement is actually worth.

The auto insurance adjuster will:

1. Collect and review the facts of your auto accident.


2. Check if you are covered under an auto insurance policy.


3. Investigate who was at fault for the accident.


4. Negotiate with you about your final settlement.


5. Write a check for your settlement.

However, the main goal of the car insurance adjuster is to settle your accident claim quickly and cheaply. This is why the insurance company hires them and this is how it rates their performance. An insurance adjuster, who takes too long to close auto accident claims or is unable to get low car insurance settlement, is not going to make their claims supervisor happy.

When you are negotiating your car insurance settlement, the two most important things you should focus on are...

1. Never Rush to Finish Your Auto Insurance Settlements
The auto insurance adjuster will try to pressure you to settle your auto accident claim quickly. This is because the longer an auto settlement takes, the more money an insurance company risks of losing.

You should never settle your car accident claims quickly. Even though you may want a quick accident settlement, to get your money faster and avoid the headache of dealing with the insurance companies, you will only hurt yourself in the long run.

Getting a quick auto insurance settlement will not help you, if you don't take the time to get accurate car repair estimates. A quick settlement will not help you, if your car accident injuries are not properly diagnosed and treated.

These things will end up costing you a lot more money in the long run. Settling the claims quickly helps the insurance company, not you. So take your time analyzing your accident claims, speaking with doctors, getting multiple car repair estimates, and fully recovering before closing your auto insurance settlements.

2. Never Accept the First Car Accident Settlement Offer
It is a common practice amongst auto claims adjusters, to give you their lowest settlement offer first. Remember, the claims adjuster's job is to save the insurance company money, not you.

The low settlement offer helps the auto claims adjuster see how desperate you are to settle. If you take the first offer, you will have missed out on a lot more money from your auto accident settlements. This is because the auto claims adjuster always has more money to negotiate with. The auto claims adjuster is given a settlement range to work with. This settlements range, depends on the how experienced the auto insurance adjuster is.

For example, a relatively inexperienced adjuster may be given a range of $5,000 to $10,000. While a more experience adjuster may have $10,000-$25,000 to close a claim with.

You most likely won't know the car accident settlement range of your adjuster, but you should never accept the first offer.

These are some of the most common negotiating tactics, used by the auto insurance adjuster, to lower your car accident settlements.

Air Flange Tool and Auto Body Repair

Completing any job in the workshop is always easier if you have the right tool available. One area in which this is particularly true is body work on autos. If you want to be able to provide the best possible finish for a customer when repairing their vehicle, then you will need a full range of auto body work tools including an air flange tool.

One area where many workshops can really struggle is in providing large scale panel repair on a vehicle. In order to return an area of the body shell to its original condition, it is often necessary to replace an entire area of metal, and unless you have the tools to add metal to a frame work effectively, this will not be possible, and you will be forced to replace the entire component, such as a door or fender. This will result in a much higher cost to the client. With an air flange tool, you can use it to simply re-skin a door with fresh metal, negating the need to replace the entire door, or engage in a lengthy panel beating session.

This is designed to use the compressed air supply in your workshop to deliver a compressive force to a piece of metal in order to fasten it into place without the need for welding. By using the air flange tool you crimp one piece of metal onto another, and thanks to the enormous force that the tool can deliver, it creates a very tight fit that will last.

An all-new panel will not suffer from any of the defects that you may get in one that has been beaten back into the correct shape, and will also sit better on the car than a wholly replaced door. If the panel is cut properly to shape in advance, then actually using the air flange tool can be a great deal quicker than actually hanging a door on the car and installing all the electrics.

Of course, there are many other uses for one than reattaching panels, and the tool can be used to punch neat and clean holes in sheet metal for bolting into place, or for allowing wiring looms to pass easily into the correct place. The breadth of different jobs that you can use the air flange tool for will soon become apparent as it finds its way into your hand whenever you need a reliable tool.

There are a number of different ones on the market, and all of them are compatible with the standard compressed air supply that you find in most modern workshops, meaning that it can be integrated seamlessly into your current work shop environment, and be used immediately.

Prices for an air flange tool start from under $65 for the pistol grip style Astro Pneumatic AST600PT model, which is a robust and reliable tool that is flexible enough to carry out most day to day jobs. While it will not handle the heaviest duty sheet metal, it, forms a smooth crimped edge that is set up ready for welding. Thanks to its relatively light weight at just two and a quarter pounds, you will be able to use if over extended periods of time without having to worry about getting tired.

Of course, by investing a little more in your tool, you can get something a little more powerful like the Mountain MTN 7378, which retails at less than $90 at Red Hill Supply. This tool can handle punching holes through metal up to 5/16" thick, and will crimp metal up to 5/32" inch, making it ideal for body work jobs.

At the top end of the market, there are a number of specialist tools that use this technique to reliably and quickly re-skin doors. By spending around $280 on an Astro Pneumatic ASTDS1000 Pneumatic Door Skinner, you can complete the task of adding a new skin to a door to a factory standard very quickly.

If you are serious about getting the best finish for your body work repairs, then an air flange tool is the right item for you. It will cut the amount of time taken using a manually powered tool in half, and give you a much superior finish thanks to the high pressure it can apply to a task.

What You Should Know When Getting Your Vehicle Painted

Sometimes there comes a time in a vehicle's "life" that it needs a little work. Usually this happens because the owner gets busy and puts off taking the proper car of a vehicle. Then most times they end up not realizing it until after the damage is done and some form of repair needs to be completed. Many times that repair that needs to be done is getting your vehicles painted either all over or in one or a few spots. Either way this can be a big task and you need to know what to consider when getting any kind of paint work done to your vehicle.

First of all, the first to consider is where you will get the work done. You absolutely need to find a shop that produces top quality work on their paint jobs. Getting your car painted or especially just an area painted is nothing to let an amateur do for you. A paint job can easily look bad if it is not done by a professional with experience. Leave this job to the pros!

Next you want to ensure that the auto body shop you choose uses the latest technology for matching your paint. This is why you don't just paint your car yourself. A good auto body shop should have the latest technology that matches the paint on your vehicle so that in the end no one will even be able to tell that you had any work done. This is the result you should be looking for.

You also want to make sure that the auto body shop is using high quality paints. Sure, if they use a cheaper paint it will cost less, however it will also not look as good. Even if it looks good at first you face the fact that it will most likely wear down easy and start to look bad sooner than later. So, spend a little extra and make sure that your vehicle is getting a high quality paint put on it. Otherwise you may end up spending more down the road when it needs to be fixed.

Paint is not only important for your vehicles appearance but also to protect the body of your car. The paint actually acts as a sealant for the steel or metal body that your car is comprised of. So, if that sealant is broken or nonexistent it will not be able to protect your car. Eventually that will lead to your car rusting and corroding. Which is not good for the body since its job is to protect you and your passengers. It will cause the body of your vehicle to be weakened. Also it will not look very good either. A little paint missing is one thing, but rust is quite another. If you want to keep your vehicles resale value and keep it safe for you and your passengers it is important that you get a quality paint job done from a professional! Get your vehicle looking great and riding safe today.

Getting a Tune-Up: An Absolute Must in Auto Repair

Over time, our beloved vehicles take a tremendous amount of wear and tear. They are asked to do so many things: pick up the kids on time, get us to and from the grocery store, and even take us on a cross country vacation. Auto repair is something that is inevitable because of all the trust that is put into a car. Getting regular tune-ups helps to show a car, and an auto mechanic, that not only is a car trusted, but it's cared for. When getting a tune-up there is a process that most auto mechanics follow, checking for certain things that tend to wear out or break down on a car easily.

One of the first things than any auto mechanic will check during a tune-up is the spark plugs and wire connections. A loose or burnt up spark plug is one of the most common reasons for electrical malfunction, and, coincidentally, it is one of the easiest to fix. Loose wire connections are also relatively easy to fix. During a tune-up the connections of wires are checked to make sure each wire fits in securely, minimizing the probability of electrical problems within the vehicle.

Air filters are key in any internal combustion engine. Without oxygen, the fuels are not able to burn and provide the large spark that is needed to start the car. However, regular old air will not do. The air needs to be cleaned before it enters the engine, which is where the air filter comes in. The filter is essential in providing the necessary clean air to the engine. When an air filter becomes dirty (which is a normal side-effect), extra fuel is needed to provide the "spark" and run the vehicle. This can cause added strain on the engine and on someone's purse.

Replacing the carburetor is the fuel injector. Fuel injectors essentially are valves that allow fuel to pass through them at the right speed to help move the car. If a fuel injector is broken, then there can be a delay between when the gas pedal is pushed and when the car actually moves. This can be disastrous if someone is trying to get from a stop to go position, especially if they are trying to go across a busy highway. Because of this it is necessary to always seek auto repair if there is a delay between the gas pedal and the movement of the car.

Auto repair is something that is unable to be avoided whenever someone owns a vehicle. And, getting a tune-up is essential to making sure a car is able to stay in good working performance. They can help spot small problems before they escalate into something much larger. There may be a cost for a tune-up, but the peace of mind they provide a car owner with is priceless, especially if an issue is found and corrected in a timely manner.

Windshield Repair Service Tips

Windshields are an often important overlooked safety feature of vehicles. The glass is created to withstand high winds, rain, and may deflect some solid items without being damaged. Sometimes there are accidents where the integrity of the glass is compromised. Most people have problems with minor windshield problems, which affect their ability to drive.

Damage to business or personal vehicles always happens unexpectedly. Cracks, chips, and holes can occur from rocks, items falling from other vehicles, or vandalism. Waiting an extended period of time to fix the damage can have further negative consequences. The content of the car may be seen as valuable to potential thieves.

Car alarms may not work properly when the window is not intact. Vehicles parked in high traffic areas may lose their DVD players, screens, movies, GPS, cash, or other valuable items within the car. Most car owners immediately seek out ways to repair their windshields.

Cracked windshields in some cases are still stable. The crack or small hole may appear to not be moving. Temporary solutions such as tape or cardboard can cause dangerous accidents on severely damaged windshields. Not addressing a small crack in a timely manner, may result in having to replace the entire windshield.

Many insurance companies will pay for some or all of the windshield repair work. Some policies may require an out of pocket fee, and will reimburse the expense by check through the mail. Many auto insurance policies are accessible online. Online chat support or telephone customer service agents should be able to answer specific questions regarding reimbursement.

Windshields that have been busted or are unsafe to drive will need auto windshield replacement. Replacement services are the best option for staying safe while the car is in motion. Never attempt to drive a vehicle that has glass that is unstable.

Windshield chip repair can usually be fixed quickly. There is no need to be without a vehicle for an extended period of time. Contact a windshield repair expert to ask questions and to book an appointment.

Professionals can use their experience to confirm if it is safe to drive out to their location. Some companies will come to a home or business location within the city. Callers that are outside of their service area may incur additional fees for travel expenses.

Traveling by car has become more popular, due to high airline ticket prices. Rental cars may be damaged from thieves that are attempting to steal them. Staying out late nights at clubs or bars may not always be safe areas. Unattended parking lots are often the place where vandalism occurs. Most rental car companies will pay for the windshield repair services, via reimbursement. Always call their customer service team for confirmation on what to do next.

When windshields are damaged, take action quickly. Take pictures for insurance reimbursements and in cases of vandalism. Always make a police report regarding vandalism on business or personal property. Use these tips when seeking out windshield repair or auto windshield replacement.

DIY Windshield Fix With a Windshield Repair Kit

Cracks on your windshield? They don't seem to be a huge threat on your safety on the road, but they can be harmful if you don't fix them right away. Over time, these cracks can grow bigger, obstructing your view of the road while driving. You can be a do-it-yourselfer (DIY) with the help of a windshield repair kit. This kit is your reliable buddy when it comes to eliminating the cracks from your windshield. And in terms of costs, the kit saves you from spending more for hiring someone to repair your windshield or for buying a new one. So before the damage on your windshield gets worse, do something about it with the help of a rock chip repair kit.

Here are several instructions to aid you in your DIY windshield repair project.

1. Inspect the cracks.

You have to check the extent of damage on your windshield before doing anything. You can either bring your car to a professional or do the inspection yourself. If there are minor cracks or chips, the damage can still be repaired. Small cracks that look like cobwebs are repairable as well. However, there are kinds of cracks that are beyond repair. Seek a professional's opinion as to whether the damage on your windshield can still be fixed or not.

2. Select the right windshield repair kit.

Once you have figured out that the crack on your windshield can be repaired, you will need a good repair kit. You can get one from your local auto parts shop or online auto parts retailers. Usually, rockchip repair kits come with an applicator or injector, an adhesive curing film, a suction cup (which serves as the base or stabilizer), and a tube of liquid resin.

3. Do the windshield repair.

Carefully read and understand the instruction manual that comes with your newly purchased windshield repair kit before performing the repair. Now, here's how to fix the cracks on your windshield. First, use an auto glass cleaner to remove dirt from the crack and the area around it. Then dry the crack using a clean rag or towel. Use a safety pin to take out any remaining debris on the crack. Next place the suction cup onto the windshield using the adhesive included in the kit. Then mount the injector on the suction cup. Next, inject the resin; this will remove the air between the windshield and the suction cup.

After the resin has cured, remove the suction cup and the injector. Dab some resin on the crack and then put the curing film over it. Let the resin cure for a certain amount of time indicated in the instruction manual of your windshield repair kit. Remove the film once the resin has cured and do the finishing touches. Use a glass cleaner to remove any adhesive residue or excess resin. Uneven parts of the repair can be smoothened out with a razor blade. See how simple it is to repair minor cracks on your windshield? As long as you have the right kit and you follow instructions properly, then windshield repair is a simple task for you.

Relying On My Auto Mechanic Shop For Fast Repairs

If you always encounter car problems, then im sure you have already visited a few auto mechanic shops to fix your car for you. Cars are considered as a very important asset in our everyday life and most people cant live without them. That is also the reason why cars should undergo regular maintenance to ensure that they will stay in good condition.

Travelling to different places is troublesome without a means of transportation. Cars have made travelling a lot easier for everyone and different car models are designed almost every year to cater the demands of the market. In some cases, when you encounter some car problems there are times when the mechanic shop that handles your car doesn't have the parts needed to fix it. This is especially true for older car models on which parts are harder to find.

Its a good thing that some auto mechanic shops have a lot of spare parts in their inventory and if you are lucky, then it wont take a long time before you and your car can hit the roads again. People like to travel by nature and you can find some of them, driving to different places with no destination in mind. These long distance travelers are more prone to have car problems, when compared to the average car drivers.

The latest advancement in technology also made it possible for certain equipment to make a drivers life more comfortable. Advanced air conditioning systems, sound systems and various car equipment are now available to the newer car versions that are now currently released in the market. These new add ons may indeed prove to be special for your every need. However, if you don't care for the overall performance of your car, then all of these will be a waste.

Cars have special needs and if we don't pay attention to these needs, then you are sure to encounter mishaps along the way. Auto mechanic shops offer different kind of car services like regular car maintenance, wheel alignment, wheel retreading, break repairs, oil change and so much more. At the first signs of a car problem, you should go to the nearest car repair shop before the problem gets worse. If you don't, then the problem can get worse and you might even encounter an accident while you are on the road.

Driving safely can also help you lengthen your cars lifespan, because you will be less likely to encounter accidents on the road. It wont be an exaggeration to say that a world without auto mechanic shops, is a world with a lot of car problems and we should be thankful that these shops are out there when we need them the most.

Auto Repair

Modern-day automobiles are complex, as most auto manufacturers are using high technology to make the cars more durable. However, being machines, automobiles also encounter the usual problems related to breakdowns as well as normal wear and tear. Repairing automobiles can be very confusing and finding someone qualified to make the correct repairs is becoming even more difficult.

It's a common proverb that "prevention is better than cure." Similarly, the best way to avoid auto repair expenses is to be prepared and to amass knowledge about how your vehicle works and how to identify common car problems. It's also important to know a good technician, the kinds of questions to ask, and your consumer rights. Choosing the right repair shop is the most difficult part, and the best way to solve this problem is by asking for recommendations from friends, family, and other people you trust.

One can make telephone enquiries for the best deal, and compare warranty policies on repairs. While choosing an auto technician, look for shops that display various certifications, like an Automotive Service Excellence seal. Certification ensures that the technicians are acquainted with the basic standards of knowledge and capabilities in desired technical segment.

Auto-repair charges can be expensive; therefore, it is imperative that the consumer be updated about the prevailing repair charges. Mostly, these charges vary from one repair shop to another, as some shops charge flat labor charges, while others charge on the basis of the actual time the technician worked on the repair. Many repair shops also charge for diagnostic time. However, if the technician recommends expensive or complicated repairs, it is advisable to get a second opinion. Although repair shops do not offer any "standard warranty" on repairs, it is important to understand what is covered under your warranty and get it in writing. Furthermore, check with the Federal Trade Commission or your state or local consumer protection agency for information about your warranty rights.

It is advisable to prevent common troubles like leaks and smoke, overheating problems, flat tires and the like with proper maintenance and care of your vehicle.

Windshield Replacement OEM Vs After Market Glass

Auto Glass Windshield replacement should be done by a trained shop. Your auto glass is part of your vehicles overall safety and security. You want to look for companies that are using only OEM (Original Manufacturer Equipment) as this glass was the original windshield that was installed at the factory. OEM is the glass that was originally designed for your vehicle, no matter the make and the model. Some companies out there make what's called Aftermarket auto glass. Aftermarket glass is made by companies that do not contract with any car manufacturers, and do not have the legal right to manufacture auto glass to the exact same specifications as OEM distributors due to licensing and copyright laws. Aftermarket glass is significantly cheaper than OEM or dealer glass. It's usually a different thickness than OEM glass and does not carry the same guarantees as OEM auto glass.

Repairing a windshield is significantly cheaper than replacing your auto glass. Many times a chip in the windshield or a crack can be filled in the early stage preventing the windshield replacement. Chips can be filled prolonging the life of your windshield and saving on the cost of replacement. Without filling he chip or crack, it is going to get worse and to the point of needing replaced. In some areas like Arizona a chip can easily turn into a much larger crack very fast due to the extreme heat or even hitting a bump or pot hole in the road can send enough vibration to cause that little chip to turn into a large crack. This also turns into a larger expense for you or the insurance company. You can find an auto glass company at most car washes doing chip repairs and it's very fast to get that done. There are many different types of chips, cracks and some are: Bulls Eye, Chip, Combination Break, Ding, Edge Crack, Floater Crack, Half Moon, Long Crack, Partial Bulls Eye, Pit, Star Break, Stone Break & Stress Crack. These are some of the technical terms of chips, dings & crack in your windshield.

With a windshield replacement you can usually count on being able to drive your vehicle a few hours after installation has taken place. The glass needs a few hours to set properly and to dry. You will need to generally keep your windows slightly cracked for up to 24 hours to allow the adhesive to properly dry. You just want to make sure you are working with an auto glass company that works with all insurance companies, has been in business for a little while and is using OEM products.

Economical Alternatives to Traditional Auto Body Repair - Paintless Dent Repair & Spot Paint Repair

Just noticed another ding on your beloved vehicle? Has your kid opened the door on someone's car door and now you have to pay for the damage?

Do you have a larger, nastier dent or scratch on a fender or bumper that is going to cost you hundreds of dollars to repair?

If you have ever answered "yes" to any of these questions, then this article may be for you. So often, we spend lots of money repairing our vehicles when they get damaged. Many times it seems that things also decide to go wrong at the very worst possible times, such as when money is short and when our responsibilities demand we have our car. Add to this the rising cost of your insurance premiums with another claim, and it is easy to see why people are looking for alternatives to traditional auto body repair.

What choices do we have?

There are basically 3 options to choose from. In short, they are summed up as follows:

1. Paintless Dent Repair
2. Spot Paint Repair
3. Traditional Auto Body Repair

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

With Paintless Dent Removal highly trained technicians use specialized tools to massage damaged metal back to its original state - without the need for costly body repairs, without having to lose your vehicle for days, and at a price you can usually feel good about.

Here are some of the stats on Paintless Dent Repair (PDR).

Pros

• Maintains the integrity of the factory paint job (no fillers or paint that could later peel)
• Fast (Repairs can take 1/2 hour - 4 hours to perform. And some PDR techs are mobile)
• Economical ($50 - $200)
• Increases trade-in value
• Increases customer's perception of vehicle condition

Cons

• Repaired dents may still be perceptible (80-95% of dent may be repaired. This is often acceptable & most people with untrained eyes would never notice.)

PDR works great on dings and dents where the paint is not broken. Although, it can help a dent even where the paint is broken. PDR can be used to fix dents that range in size from a "dime" to even a "softball" or greater. And, what's more, PDR works great on creases as well. All of this, of course, will depend on how stretched the dents are and whether the PDR technician can get access to the back of the panel. One thing to be concerned with, too, is whether the technician will have to drill to get access. Sometimes this may be unavoidable in order to repair the damage, but you should ask for assurance that any holes that are drilled are properly sealed in order to prevent rust.

A testimony to Paintless Dent Repair's effectiveness is the fact that many insurance companies will even choose paintless dent repair over traditional auto body repair when dealing with hail damage claims on a vehicle. The reason has to do with the benefits mentioned earlier. (And, quite honestly, if I drove a new vehicle that got pelted with hail, I would rather NOT have its factory paint job repainted only to have it possibly peel later.) Many hail-damaged vehicles can be repaired with paintless dent repair. This helps to minimize the number of panels that must be repainted to few or none at all.

So, if you think that paintless dent repair may be the way to go for you, then how do you go about finding a trained technician to repair your vehicle?

You could just go to the internet and do a search of qualified PDR techs in your area, but personally I feel that a better barometer of skill is word of mouth. Call up a local high-end car dealer in your area like a Mercedes-Benz or BMW dealer and ask them for a recommendation. Some of the people who purchase these types of cars are among the most pickiest and hardest to please. So when one of these dealers has a used car they are attempting to recondition for sale, they may choose only the best repair techs with experience in their field.

SPOT PAINT REPAIR

You might have a bumper that is scratched and scuffed just on one corner. Or, you might have a door dent that has cracked paint but is below a molding that extends across the length of the door. In such cases, why go through the extra expense of painting the whole panel, most of which is NOT damaged? Then Spot Paint Repair may be for you.

With spot paint repair, a highly skilled paint technician does their best to straighten the damage in a way that keeps the repair area small. They fill, prime, and color-match the area much like traditional auto body repair. However, when they reach the clear coat stage, instead of prepping and coating the entire panel, they use a special "blending-solvent" to "melt" the edge of the freshly sprayed clear coat into the existing clear coat. Many times this make for an almost imperceptible repair that the customer can feel good about.

Here are some of the quick stats on Spot Paint Repair

Pros

• Fast (Repairs can take from 2-6 hours)


• Economical ($125-300)


• Some Tech's are mobile and will come to you in order to repair your vehicle


• Repair area kept smaller than traditional paint repairs


• More of the vehicle maintains the integrity of its factory paint job


• The same high-quality paints are used for spot paint repair that are used in traditional auto body repair


• No need to be without a vehicle for days or pay extra costs of car rental


• Increases trade-in value and customer's perception of vehicle condition

Cons

• When panels are clear coated only partially, the edge may become visible in time. For this reason, spot paint repair is not recommended for top panels such as hoods, roofs, or trunk lids.


• Depending on the skill or method of the repairer, panels may peel, not match, or look grainy or dirty, and repaired dents may still look wavy


• May not be equal to factory paint job in quality and durability

All things considered, Spot Paint Repair is an excellent way to repair damage to a vehicle's exterior. It may be best suited for those who are paying out of pocket or who are looking to recondition a vehicle for sale.

So, if you think that spot paint repair may be the way to go for you, then how do you go about finding a trained technician to repair your vehicle?

You could just go to the internet and do a search of qualified techs in your area, but again, personally I feel that a better barometer of skill is word of mouth. Call up a local high-end car dealer in your area like a Mercedes-Benz or BMW dealer and ask them for a recommendation. Some of the people who purchase these types of cars are among the most pickiest and hardest to please. So when one of these dealers has a used car they are attempting to recondition for sale, they may choose only the best repair techs with experience in their field.

So next time your car gets a scratch, dent, or scuff remember that there are alternatives. Paintless Dent Repair and Spot Paint Repair can save you time and money while maintaining the value of your vehicle.

Economical Alternatives to Traditional Auto Body Repair-Paintless Dent Repair & Spot Paint Repair

By Danny Leary