Importance of Effective Garage Door Services

The garage door is an important part of the garage as it provides the security and saves the vehicles from getting theft. A professional such repair company delivers along various types of repairing services along with the wide range of upgrades that are helpful for the door. So, whenever you notice that your door is malfunctioning or damaged, you instantly call for the services of a professional garage door repairing service provider. It is very important that you hire the services of a company which is quite experienced in this field and have the reputation of offering very good services to its clients. Some of the services which a good and professional company gives to its clients includes checking the door balance, getting rid of excessive dirt, debris, oil, grease on the tracks, gives a systematic check of all parts including roller, hinges, adjustment and checking of the Torsion Springs, lubrication, repair and maintenance of springs, rollers, drums, hinges, struts and cables, inspection of the motor, adjustment of limit switches, checking the force adjustment and many more such services.

While choosing a garage door repairing company, it is imperative to know about the problem that your door is facing. You consider taking care of certain factors to make the right decision regarding the problem and choosing a repairing company to solve it. You have to be detailed information about your requirements and always call a firm which is professional and experienced in the field of garage door repairing. Having discussions with your friends and colleagues for suggestions will be helpful to make your decision. Yellow pages and internet are also fairly valuable to get details about such service renders. After that you should narrow down a list of such companies in your vicinity which are suitable according to your needs, preferences and budget. Then the next step is to call each of them and ask about their experience, expertise and the prices which they quote for the required services. If some of them seems confused while answering your questions, you can smell a fish and shall cross them off the list. After going through all these measures you be assured that the companies are appropriately licensed and bonded.

Always prefer choosing a company which is available 24/7, so that you can call them during any emergency. Going through customer reviews and testimonials on various websites helps a lot in gaining information about such service providers. Read them vigilantly and find a company which will be able to give you very good services. An experienced company will always have a team of have skilled technicians who have the talent and the expertise to give quality services to you. Take its services and gain the advantages as it will help you to keep your garage door in proper condition for a long time.

Avoiding Costly Auto Air Conditioning Repairs - Some Small Tips That Can Save You Cash!

Auto air conditioning repair seems to be getting more and more difficult. There are a handful of individuals with the skill and know-how to take on this task but they seem to be a dying breed. Auto air conditioning is built in and around the engine of the car, so upkeep should be handled by a professional. For instance, do you know how much refrigerant does your car take? Auto air conditioning service and repair cannot be undertaken by just anyone, you need the right equipment and the knowledge to undertake such a repair. In some countries it is illegal to repair an air conditioning system even an auto A/C system has to be repaired by a licensed mechanic.

Automobile gas leak and the consequent resealing of the system. It has been observed, that a large percentage of older (4 years or older) cars, seem to have continual slow refrigerant leaking problems. Even when the leaks are identified and repaired, many are low on charge by the following summer. Leaks can be difficult to detect. Specialist equipment is necessary to find the leak and further equipment is needed to correctly recharge the system after repairs have been carried out.

Auto air conditioning repair is also one of the largest overcharged repairs on automobiles today. It is very common for repair bills to reach well over $1000. As you can see, there are some businesses that are taking advantage of consumers due to the specialist nature of the repair and the qualifications needed to do it properly. But do not despair there are honest repair technicians / businesses out there that will charge a fair price for the work carried out. Try to obtain quotes for the repair and do not make the mistake of settling for the first quote you receive.

Tip: During winter many motorists forget about their auto air conditioning because it isn't necessary to use it during those cold months. But did you know that using the air conditioning on the windscreen will clear any internal fogging very efficiently, and having the heater on at the same time stops you getting cold as well.

Tip: Using the auto air conditioner as noted above will also help to alleviate any need to re-gas the system. Why? Because an auto air conditioner compressor uses a seal on the drive shaft to keep the refrigerant from escaping. This seal works with the help of a thin film of oil, during winter the non use of the air conditioner allows the oil to dry up thus letting the refrigerant escape. The unknowing driver does not find out their system isn't functioning till summer arrives. Run your car air conditioner once every 2 weeks for a few minutes and you will have no problems or use it to defrost and defog your windscreen during winter.

Car Repair and Your Hybrid Vehicle

It is important to understand what makes hybrid vehicles different than regular internal combustion vehicles. Hybrid vehicles combine power from two or more sources. Meaning, your hybrid vehicle drives using power created from a fossil fuel and from electricity.

The increasing popularity of hybrids has made them more accessible to everyday drivers, and there are more hybrid vehicles out on the road. This means there are more hybrid vehicles appearing in car repair shops. If your hybrid vehicle is one of the cars showing up in the shop, there are a few different costs to expect.

First of all, it should not cost more to maintain your hybrid. Because most of the hybrid technologies have been out for a while, everyday mechanics have had a chance to get familiar. For those that have not spent a lot of time working on hybrid vehicles, they have had ample opportunities to read-up on the technology or take classes.

This means that the cost you accrue at a car repair shop will be based on the general repairs needed. You should not see extra costs associated with your hybrid unless it is for specific work to the battery, computer or electrical component.

When you do need to take your vehicle in to the shop, make sure you are taking it to a mechanic that has worked with hybrids before. This will streamline your process quite a bit. You will also be able to leave your vehicle knowing that it is in good hands.

If you are not sure whether or not your mechanic is comfortable with hybrids, just ask. They will likely tell you whether they have worked on a vehicle like yours before. If you do not have a regular mechanic and are looking to find someone to work on your new hybrid vehicle, spend some time doing research on shops in your area.

Find a mechanic that is recommended by friends or family or even the Better Business Bureau. Working off recommendations or referrals is the best way to guarantee you are getting good hybrid maintenance. You will want to locate a quality, state of the art shop to do your car repair.

There are other costs associated with maintaining your hybrid automobile. Look at the recommendations of your vehicle's manufacturer. Some vehicles require regular air filter changes. Also, remember that you are also caring for the fuel-injected engine. You will need to maintain a regular oil change schedule.

While it may cost a little more to maintain your vehicle, you can expect to save money in other ways. There are, of course, the tax benefits you receive from the state and federal government. You are also expected to spend less money on fuel over the course of your vehicle's life.

So, if you are considering purchasing a hybrid vehicle, or already own one, don't be dissuaded by the cost of car repair or maintenance. In the end, the benefits of owning a hybrid outweigh the costs.

Paintless Dent Repair - The Truth, Myths and Misconceptions

PDR, a better repair!

First let me start by explaining what PDR or Paintless Dent Removal is for those of you out there that have never heard the term. PDR is conceptually simple, put simple it is the process of removing damage from an automotive body panel without the need for sanding, grinding, body-fillers or painting (hence the term Paintless).

The process of removing damage to vehicles without then need for painting is actually not new at all, though industry folk lore varies from tale to tale, Mercedes Benz allegedly began having "metal-men" work small imperfections in panels while still on the assembly line as long ago as the 1950's. Today's PDR technicians have adapted various techniques for removing dings and dents from vehicles without the need for fillers and re-painting almost as an art form. Better tools, training and advances in automotive clear coat durability have led to miraculous results for even large dents.

Why can't I just use a dent popper like the ones you see on TV?

Unfortunately the dent poppers, suction cups and (this one makes me chuckle) dry ice simply don't work. First let's explore the "screw out dent poppers". You've probably seen the late night Ding King infomercials showing you how easy it is to just glue on the tab, place the lifter on the tab and turn. POP! the dent's gone! right? Wrong! the commercial never shows the large high spot, low spot still left or heaven forbid the high spot surrounding a low, or as i like to call them a "volcano". The main reason this is a gimmick, missing tools and knowledge. Professional PDR technicians actually do use a method of removing some select dents from the front of a panel with tabs, special adhesives and a lifting apparatus.

The main difference? a technicians main assets are their eyes, reflective source, and hand-eye-coordination. a professional technician assesses the dent with a reflective source, be it a light, line board or reflective pole, and targets the "dead-center" of the dent. Once located the technician places a tab directly at this zero point and then uses a lifting device to bring the depressed metal as close to level as possible in one pull. Once the pull has been made the technician removes the tab and assesses the area to determine the next course of action. Usually, the area will require some work with a tap down device to level any areas that were pulled higher than level. This process may go on for several pulls and taps until the area is as close to level as possible. The do-it-yourself-er doesn't get a reflective source, tap down or training in how to use each of these items and more often than not makes the once small door ding a variable mess when finally deciding to throw in the towel. The suction cup is simply ineffective.

Damage very large and gradual may actually move with a strong enough suction and it may actually look somewhat better than the original dent, but it effectively "locks" the metal into place and the distortions or buckles around the area that have not been properly removed before addressing the main low areas of the dent are now cementing everything into place. The remaining topic (and my favorite) dry ice and a hair dryer seems to get rave reviews on you-tube and the like. Unfortunately this once again doesn't address the buckles and only sometimes removes a portion of the dent.

The main down side to this method is the process it uses. Dry ice or the "computer duster" propellant will rapidly cool the substrate and paint. The hair dryer is then used to rapidly bring the panel temp. above 150 degrees F. The rapid contraction and subsequent expansion of the substrate is what actually makes the dent pop but what's happening on a much smaller level is paint damage. The paint is almost always micro-fractured which leads to paint cracking, peeling and corrosion. Much of this damage will not be seen for several months down the road when the elements have had time to breach the fractures and make them worse.

One PDR company is as good as another, Right?

All dent companies are not created equal and actually let me expand on that by saying all pdr technicians are not created equally. One of the main reasons for the boom in pdr company growth is the "claim to fame" or "gold rush" mentality. We've all seen the commercials for get rich quick schemes. Some very talented technicians have and still do make a very good living repairing dents. Most earn moderate incomes that do not carry bragging rights though. Every Tom, Dick and Harry tired of their 9-5 job learns about the alleged 6 figure income made by pdr technicians and heads out for two weeks of training at a mis-information factory such as Ding King or Right Look and thinks they will set the world on fire directly thereafter. In reality they spend two (or even one) weeks learning little about real world dents and almost always pick up bad habits that will doom them from ever being able to repair a dent properly.

The "Mills",as they are affectionately referred to in the industry, also sell the aspiring technician a "package" deal complete with every tool needed to repair any dent out there. Unfortunately what they are actually getting is the cheapest set of Chinese made coat hangers good money can buy. The aspiring technician returns home after training and (after being told they are ready) begins selling their service. The problem being they often cannot see the dent properly to repair it and do not have the acquired skill set to fix the smallest of dings. The end result is a moderate improvement with high spots throughout the dent and even cracked paint. The technician either continues on frustrated, trying to do better (or not if they don't care enough about the quality) or will lower prices justifying to themselves that a lower quality repair is still worth something.

And more still will throw in the towel all together after making such a bad name for themselves that they can no longer find work. This surge of low end "technicians" has led to a misconception that PDR is an inferior repair process as compared to a body shop. In fact, this conception is true when it pertains to someone performing such gross butchery. The general rule of thumb for a PROFESSIONAL Paintless Dent Repair is that it should cost between 1/2 to 1/3 that of a conventional body shop repair. Professional technicians have spend many hundreds, if not thousands, of hours perfecting their craft and don't sell themselves short. If you find yourself shopping for the best deal (lets face it, in this economy who doesn't) be leery of a rock bottom price. More often than not you WILL get what you pay for and will end up wishing you had paid a little more when rust starts to appear where the dent was, due to the hack cracking your vehicles paint!

To learn more about PDR and find the answers to common PDR questions visit our site http://dentsvanish.com

Why You Should Have Auto Repair Tools in Your Car

Having basic auto repair tools can really be nice when your car starts to have car troubles. Having some repair tools can save you from having to run to your local Utah auto repair garage. You don't want to have to run to a Utah auto shop for every single mechanical problem that goes on with your car.

Be sure to carry auto repair tools in your car with you whenever you drive. As discussed in a previous article, major car repairs may be saved by keeping up with the general maintenance of your car. Yet, even doing that does not guarantee that your car will never break down.

It is inevitable that your car will need some minor repairs every so often. Even when they are cared after very well, cars will need some mechanical work done. However, keeping good care of your car and bringing it in to your local Utah auto shops to replace oil and other maintenance checks will make it more plausible that you can save money when your car does have smaller issues because you will be able to do the repairs on your own.

You can usually find a good set of auto tools at most Utah auto stores. Stores that deal with car accessories are always a good place to look for auto repair tools. A lot of supermarkets are also selling auto repair tools.

Basic tool kits will allow you to do basic mechanical repairs yourself. Before trying to repair anything on your car yourself, you need to make sure you have a basic knowledge of car repairs. Local classes, online tutorials, and basic videos are a good place to start when studying how to do repairs on your car.

Some procedures should never be tried by a novice. For example, you would never want to try to replace a broken clutch by yourself. The type of repairs that novice car owners can easily do are things such as replacements on spark plugs or fuel filters.

When you buy a basic auto repair tool kit it should have some form of tutorial included with it. Tutorials will help you understand the tools and their uses. The more detailed the tutorial, the better.

You can ask your Utah auto repair technicians what tools are the best to have for basic maintenance work. Most will tell you the need for jumper cables, screwdrivers, set of wrenches, thick gloves, and breaker bars. When you go in to talk to your technician, compare the pricing between their basic auto repair tool kits and others you can find online or at the supermarkets.

Want to Learn The Most Common Auto Repair Related Terms?

Once you buy a new vehicle for yourself, you can't let it just sit around between trips. You have to take care of it, like you would do for anything else of value. A car needs proper maintenance and you must learn about basic auto repair before getting started. For example, your car may break down, and in case of an emergency, you must know what to do. There won't always be an ASE certified technician at hand to help you out.

There are many automobile technicians who gladly help out their customers with a few tips on basic repairing processes. There are a few terms that you must get acquainted with in case you have decided to do your bit of research on this topic. Some of them have been listed below to help you out:

o Air Pumps: this device allows the entry of air into the exhaust system of the car- basically it aids in emission control. The catalytic converter re-burns the pollutants in the exhaust.

o Air Injection: this is also a method of controlling car emissions. It helps by injecting air into all the exhaust ports present in the engine. Fresh air enters the exhaust which leads the remaining fuel to get burnt before exiting the tailpipe.

o Ball Joint: present in the form of a bendable coupling in the car's suspension. It connects the steering knuckle to the control arm and it derives its name from the ball and socket kind of construction. There are some which do not require to be oiled at all, whilst others need a bit of lubricant once in every six months. When there is any trouble with this joint, there is a recurrent problem of suspension noise and misalignment of wheels.

o Bakelite: a plastic insulator that is also heat resistant, used primarily in printed circuit boards.

o Ball bearing: a hardened bearing with inner and outer faces, between which there are balls of hardened steel.

o Carburetor: allows combustion by mixing air and fuel in proper quantities, and is placed on the intake manifold of the vehicle's engine.

o Chassis: a rather generalized term for all the mechanical structures of the car. For example in cars that have unitized construction, every part but the body forms the chassis.

o Caliper: a hydraulically driven device which contains around two brake pads and one piston. This number may vary from car to car.

o Choke: this is placed near the carburetor and it constrains the flow of air. It is usually moveable.

o Condenser: this is present in the air conditioning system of the car and acts like a radiator. It is also applicable to a device that controls voltage surges.

o Spindle: The constituent on which the hub and wheel bearings are placed.

There are few other terms such as valve job which refers to the reconditioning of engine vales. And an injector is a device solely structured for the purpose of receiving metered fuel.

In case you would like to expand your automobile related knowledge feel free to consult your mechanic or automotive center to know more.

Three Steps To Transmission Repair

Transmission repair is a fact of owning a car. As a working component to your vehicle's engine, it needs to be maintained through proper upkeep. However, most people do not think twice about it. They assume the fluid is fine. They do not realize that they can reduce their costs including fuel costs by simply having this system properly maintained right alongside their engine's oil and filters. A technician can offer three main steps to you.

Diagnosing Any Problem

The first step is to diagnose any type of condition currently affecting the vehicle. You will likely need to bring in your vehicle from time to time for concerns related to the way it is functioning. For example, if you notice it is not shifting gears properly or it jolts when you move from reverse to drive this is an indication of a problem. Others include squealing sounds from belts, a revving of the engine and a loss or a reduction in power as you are driving. Do not put off these types of problems. If the system fails, the car could stop or lurch forward without warning and potentially put you in a risky situation.

Treat the Problem

The next step the technician will take is treating any problem related to the system. Transmission repair often includes removing components and replacing them if they were worn. However, not all conditions warrant replacement. Rather, you may be able to have the system flushed to remove old fluid, which could be causing the conditions you are experiencing. You cannot just top off this fluid. It is a good idea to drain it thoroughly, flush the lines, and replace the fluid with new product, every 30,000 miles, or when the manufacturer instructs you to do so.

Preventing Additional Concerns

Even if you do need replacement, once it is in place, you need to maintain it. Discuss with your technician what steps you should take to do just that. You may need to bring the vehicle in for maintenance more frequently than others do because of the way you use the car. On the other hand, you may need to monitor for changes in its function and to report these.

Keep your technician in the loop. Be sure he or she helps you to handle any transmission repairs thoroughly and then gives you steps to take to minimize the risk of having to bring the vehicle in again down the road. Ultimately, you need to maintain the transmission. If you fail to do so, you are significantly reducing fuel efficiency and long-term drivability of the vehicle.

How to Save Money With Auto Body Repair

Auto body repair itself is a great way to save money when your car is damaged in an accident or in some other way. However, there are some pointers that you might follow, which will help you to save a lot more on your vehicle body repair, without making unnecessary payments.

Ask for an estimate

Most auto body repair shops will readily give you a cost estimate to determine the extent of damage control that needs to be done and that to free. Once you get the estimate, call up a few other local auto repair outlets and ask for the amount they will charge for the exact same repairs. This will help you to make a better decision. In order to save money on the repair, it is very important that you shop around for the best deal.

What is necessary?

If your budget for the vehicle body repair is low, just ask for the repairs that are completely necessary. For instance, your car can function completely well with a few dents here are there, but you definitely need to carry out the repairs that might put you in danger.

Ask about the kind of parts they use

Some automobile body repair outlets make use of recycled materials and auto parts. Most of these are as good as the original. Ask the repair shop if they use recycled auto salvage or junkyard parts. If they do, this can help you save a lot on the repair and also on the parts that need to be replaced.

Understanding the coverage and their listed shops

Some insurance agencies have their own network of auto body repair shops. However, these shops may often take short cuts and compromise on the quality of the repair, to save money. This is because; the insurance agencies usually offer them a pre-renegotiated amount that is mostly quite paltry.

Background check

You should check the reputation of the repair shop and see if there have been any complaints against it in the Better Business Bureau. Also check if they live up to their warranties.

Rental expense

While your repair work goes on, you will have to drive rented cars. This can run up your expenditure. So make sure you talk about this point with the repair shop before the start working on your car.

Vehicle repair coverage

Investing in vehicle repair coverage can be a great idea. This insurance or coverage will pay for the cost of the auto body repair. You should of course obtain coverage before the accident takes place.

Finally, remember that you can save a lot on repair just by being a smart shopper. Look for the best deal. Auto body repair not only saves money, but also helps the environment. So, while you are looking for ways to save more money on the repair, make sure that you also choose a shop that gives adequate importance to recycling its parts.

How to Start a Successful Auto Parts Business

The automotive part business is poised to increase in the coming years, at least in the U.S. This can be attributed to the better than expected sales of light vehicles in the country. Because car dealers are increasing their inventories, it is but normal to see a swarm of auto parts centers being set up here and there. With the continued national demand for car parts, you may be wise to think of starting your own small car service business.

The Steps for Success

First, assess the market. Enumerate any new and old vehicle dealers in your area. Also include independent car repair centers and other regional car maintenance facilities. Car clubs and groups of people that collect special cars need to be considered as well. Furthermore, bear in mind that a small percentage of the city you're working in is capable of the do-it-yourself approach to car maintenance and servicing. This information gives you an idea of how big your market is - the bigger the market, the bigger the chance of profit.

Second, know your competitors. Just like in any type of business scout the number of shops you are competing against. The greater is the number the tighter the competition becomes. Include all car part suppliers from national to local level. Even the special car part shops like those that sell performance parts for racing cars still need to be noted. You also have to verify if your competitors have special price guarantees and if suppliers offer sales incentives and manufacturer warranties.

If you'll find out that there's less competition in specialty car part shops, identify that niche and focus down that line. If not, you can still continue selling general parts but have a dedicated area for selling a few specialty parts as well. You can lure potential specialty car part buyers by visiting them at popular racing events, club meeting and other highly publicized occasions. This way you can introduce yourself and advertise some performance parts available in your shop.

Next, learn how to market. It is pretty basic for most start-ups to set up their own website. By doing so, you are making your online presence more felt to online consumers. Just make sure you leave your contact details and address so that public will know where your shop is located. You should also offer free delivery to those who shop in bulk online. Marketing also involves developing a stable customer list. Keep in touch with loyal customers, inform them about your perks and post targeted ads at key areas for fresh customers to see. It may also be sensible to consider investing in print advertisements through your local publications.

It may also be a wise idea to hand over a small survey form to your clients. This survey should include naming auto parts that they want you to sell. You can offer small discounts and other gifts if they return the form. Furthermore, do not underestimate the power of referrals. BPO companies often use this incentive program to lure more people to join them. If your loyal customer refers a friend to buy a part at your shop, offer some form of incentive to the former.

Avoiding Auto Body Shop Shams

The large number of storms that have swept through one area of the country are keeping both repair companies and insurers on their toes. That's because the damage from these storms in Mankato, Minnesota, has wreaked havoc on automobiles and homes alike. The scene is poised to repeat itself across the nation as tropical storm season gets into full swing, so auto body shops better brace themselves for the onslaught of work hail and strong winds are certain to bring about.

According to the Free Press, "The June combo platter of hail and tornadoes [in Makato]... continues to tax the resources of home and auto-repair entities" two months later. In fact, one auto body shop in the area estimates that it has "repaired 30 to 40 hail-dinged vehicles thus far with no let-up in sight."

While such demand for their services is forcing auto body shop owners to work 14- to 16-hour days, they're not the only ones dodging the heat. Automobile owners who are reeling from the damaged sustained by their vehicles are also having to put in some overtime-in sniffing out auto body repair scams.

The Valley Chronicle out of Hemet / San Jacinto, California, recently ran an article pointing out that some of these so-called "repairs only damage vehicle." The report highlights a vehicle owner whose cosmetically damaged truck prompted two men to knock on her door and offer to "get out the dent and repair the paint" for $70. As the icing on the cake, they also said they "would repair the damage and restore the paint on her 1993 Cadillac deVille."

If the offer sounds like it was too good to be true, it was. When the vehicle owner "went out to examine the work when the men were finished, she found they had not only not done the work well, but had sprayed the back of her car with something yellow." Turns out the paint they used was house paint. After shelling out an additional $80 to the scam artists, the auto owner had the good sense to take her vehicles into a professional auto body shop to mitigate the damage. "The estimate came out to $591.80, which... is hundreds of dollars more than the original repairs would have cost" had she not fallen prey to her predators.

To the victim's credit, the men presented themselves as auto body shop employees. Only later-too late for her wallet- would she discover that "the name of the shop is not listed in the Hemet phone book, nor is any auto body shop by the name they gave listed in surrounding communities."

So how might she have protected herself? By entrusting her vehicles to a reputable auto body shop with a longstanding tradition within the community. Having a team of auto body professionals who work with the objective of getting you back on the road quickly and with the confidence that your vehicle has been restored to your complete satisfaction is worth the extra initial investment.

With your vehicle in the capable hands of an auto body shop that is known throughout the community as a leader in quality collision repair, you can rest assured that no knock-offs or cheap imitations will ever be used. You can also enjoy the confidence that your repair will be guaranteed to measure up to your exacting standards.

Car Repair: Know the Maintenance Required to Avoid Major Issues

Spending money on car repair is not a pleasant prospect for most people, but the good news is that this can usually be avoided by keeping your vehicle maintained at all times. Keeping up with the maintenance can help prevent it from ever getting bad enough to warrant spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on repairs. Below, you can find out the most common types of services that can help keep your automobile in good shape.

Getting regular oil changes is one of the most basic ways to avoid major car repair costs. Check your auto's manual to find out exactly how many miles you are supposed to go before getting the oil changed, though you will find that it is usually best to get it changed every 3000 miles. Of course, between changes you should check to make sure that there is still oil in the vehicle. Otherwise, you could face major engine issues down the road.

Another important aspect to pay attention to is your tires. You need to make sure that they always have the proper amount of air in them, as driving on them with too little air can destroy them, while putting too much air in them can cause a blowout while driving. You should also check the tread to make sure it is still there, as too little tread can cause tires to slip on the road and not stop as effectively as they should. They also need to be balanced and rotated every once in a while to allow you to have a smooth ride when driving. You can have this done when you get the oil changed to help ensure that it is completed periodically.

One type of maintenance that you may not remember until it rains is to keep your windshield wiper blades in good shape. You actually need to replace these occasionally or else they will not be very effective, making it difficult to see when you drive. You can buy your own, or request that they be replaced during any other service at your local car repair shop.

Many people dread going to the car repair shop because it costs them money, but the sad fact is that the longer you wait to do it, the more you will usually pay. Keeping your vehicle updated on its maintenance can save you a lot of money and worry since you will always know that your vehicle is in good working order. Therefore, keeping it up-to-date is well worth the periodic costs.

Car Engine Cranks Over But Doesn't Start - Automotive Repair Tips

Many times in the past as an automotive technician, I would be given a car to diagnose that either had a problem that prevented the car's engine from turning over or that prevented the car's engine from starting. These are two completely different scenarios and these problems are approached differently. Sometimes when the service writer would create a work order, he wouldn't convey the REAL problem that the customer was experiencing. If the customer or the service writer would make sure the correct explanation of the problem is written, some unnecessary trips out to the car with the wrong tools would be avoided. For instance if the car doesn't crank over at all, I would need to take my jump box with me. And if the car cranked over but didn't start, I would want my scan tool and some starting fluid.

A car that cranks over but doesn't start, in many cases will be due to a bad fuel pump, a broken timing belt, an inoperative cam sensor or crank sensor. The first step in diagnosing a no start is to scan for codes with a code reader or scan tool. Approximately 40% of the cars towed in that I worked on in the last 25 years, either had a bad fuel pump or the fuel gage read incorrectly and the car was just out of fuel. Yes, some people actually have their cars towed in when all they need is some gas! If the fuel gage indicates that there is fuel in the tank, most people will assume naturally that the car does have fuel. But if the fuel sending unit or gage is off slightly, the car's gas tank could actually be empty. One of the easiest ways to check for a fuel pump related problem is to spray a little starting fluid into the air intake while trying to start the car. If the car starts momentarily, then there's a good chance the fuel pump is not working or the car is out of gas. You can also listen for the fuel pump's humming sound when the key is first turned on. Also if a inoperative fuel pump is suspected, a good technician will always check to verify there is power and ground being supplied to the pump, to eliminate the possibility of a bad relay or electrical issue. Fuel pressure can be checked with a pressure gage and if there is pressure, pulse can be checked at the fuel injectors in several ways including the most common, with the use of noid lights. If the injectors don't have pulse the engine won't start.

Broken timing belts also caused about 40% of the tow ins in my experience. A broken timing belt can fail causing the car to seem as if it ran out of fuel while driving. When trying to start the car though, the engine typically spins over faster than normal due to the engine having low compression from the timing being off and the valves being open at the wrong time. If the timing belt breaks, there sometimes could be a code set in the vehicles ECU (Electronic Control Unit) for no signal from the cam sensor. If this code is present, you can sometimes check to see if the cam is moving by removing the oil cap while someone engages the starter. Also the upper timing cover can be removed to allow access to the timing belt for inspection. Most of the time when a timing belt breaks the teeth (or cogs) are stripped down at the crank pulley the bottom sprocket preventing the belt from turning the camshaft.

Lack of pulse from the fuel injectors as stated before can prevent a car from running. This brings me to the third most common cause of a car that cranks over but doesn't start, approximately 20% of the tow ins that I worked on had the following problem. Many times the cause of lack of pulse is because of a bad cam or crank sensor. If the computer doesn't see either the crank or the cam turning, the fuel injectors won't be commanded to pulse. One quick indication that a cam or crank sensor may be bad is to check for RPM movement on the tachometer (if equipped) when trying to start the engine. If you have a scan tool not just a code reader, the cam and crank sensor data can be checked on many vehicles by accessing the appropriate screen. If no revolutions are shown when attempting to start the car, the respective sensor could be bad.

Obviously there are many vehicle makes, with different ignition and fuel delivery systems that may require a service manual to properly diagnose or to delve deeper. But with the above tips and tricks that I've used over the years you'll be checking the most likely causes, that hopefully will send you in the right direction.

Auto Hail Damage Repair

It can be frightening when you get stuck in a hail storm but the truly scary part is what it can do to your car. You wouldn't think that little chunks of ice could do much damage to sheet metal. However, many people have been left with a car that looks like a golf ball after a nasty winter storm. Auto Hail Damage Repair has changed a lot over the years and can be done in some cases without the need for a new paint job.

For years the standard way to remove dents was by pulling the dent out. You would have to drill holes into the dented area and use a tool to pull the metal back into shape. Then you would have to grind the holes down and use a body filler to smooth them over. After that you would repaint the damaged area and that is one of the biggest drawbacks to this procedure. A paint job that was put on by the manufacturer is of extremely high quality. It is nearly impossible to duplicate it without taking it back to the manufacturer. So you would be left with a section of car that was obviously repainted with inferior materials.

Paintless Dent Repair was invented specifically for this reason. The Mercedes-Benz Company in Germany was having a lot of trouble shipping their cars to the various dealers. When they arrived they would have dents and dings but the car lot would not have the resources to give them a manufacturer quality paint job after they were repaired. So they developed a procedure for Paintless Dent Removal that uses rods to push the dent out from the inside while gently tapping the outside with a hammer. It is important that the technician be very skilled using Paintless Dent Repair techniques because if they strike the metal too hard it will split. Sometimes glue is used on the outside of the car to pull the dent instead of pushing with rods which can eliminate the need for using a hammer on the metal. The only times that Paintless Dent Removal is not possible is if the paint was damaged by the initial impact or if the metal has been stretched too far out of shape.

Paintless Dent Repair is a great way to save money and retain your original manufacturer paint job. Just make sure that the repair shop that you choose is reputable and has done it many times before. To find a local repair shop you can search the internet for Paintless Dent Repair North Georgia.

Car Insurance Claim Scams - How Rear-End Collisions Can Be Car Insurance Claim Scams

Car insurance claim scams happen in cities and rural areas. They happen both day and night. They happen in sunshine and rain, at rush hour and on quiet roads. You need to know that there are people out on the roads that are planning and looking for someone just like you to catch in their scams. It's all about filing fraudulent claims and collecting money.

Here's just one example of a claim scam...The Staged Rear-End Collision.

A driver will quickly merge into your lane of traffic directly in front of you, then slam on his brakes. He is hoping that your car will hit his car in the rear end.

It doesn't matter if he has Collision insurance coverage on his car, because if you hit his car, you're at fault. Here in the state of Georgia, a traffic ticket for "failure to yield" is almost a certainty if you rear-end another car for any reason. And, if you're ticketed, your insurance company is going to have a hard time proving that it wasn't your fault.

The Car Repairs Scam

The other driver will collect money from your insurance company for repairs to his car. He may take his car to the body shop of his choice. Sometimes, the body shop is a partner in the scam, writing a huge estimate for repairs that may or may not ever get done. This part of the scam happens pretty quickly, and settlement usually happens pretty fast.

The Bodily Injury Scam

The driver will usually fake an injury. If there are other people in the car, it is likely that all of them will fake injury. These rear-end collisions are perfect for scammers, since injuries like whiplash are soft-tissue injuries and very difficult to prove. So, they might drag out an injury claim for months.

Sometimes, the driver/claimant's doctor, chiropractor or attorney may be part of the scam. The medical bills will mount up and the attorney will make a settlement demand, usually far in excess of the medical bills alone. For example, the claimant's medical bills might total $10,000, and the attorney will make a demand for $50,000.

Another part of the Bodily Injury Scam is loss of income for the claimant. They might try to hit you for partial disability, either temporary or permanent. They might even try total disability. Remember, in this scam, ALL of the passengers will make the same claim for damages.

Can you see how fast the claim can go from a fender-bender to a huge claim with a demand of hundreds of thousands of dollars?

You can prevent this type of scam befalling you. Here are some tips:

o Keep plenty of distance between you and the car ahead of you AT ALL TIMES.

o Stay alert while driving, don't allow yourself to be distracted inside your own car.

o Keep cell phone use while driving at a minimum. People develop "attention blindness" when they're using their cell phones.

o Make sure you have a disposable camera in your glovebox at all times. If you do find yourself in a rear-end collision, use your disposable or cell phone camera to take plenty of photos of the damages on both cars. Take photos of the driver and all passengers.

Only YOU can protect yourself from being a victim of a Car Insurance Claim Scam.

If you have experienced a car insurance loss, you need to know winning insurance claim strategies. The insurance company will not tell you the claims process, but I will. I will show you how to take control of your insurance claim, and add hundreds or even thousands more dollars to your claim settlement. For more information, go to the website listed below.

Why Car Insurance Is So Expensive

When people complain about car insurance, they usually are convinced that their insurance company is charging huge premiums and then not covering any claims. You may be surprised that the real problem isn't the insurance companies, but people who try to scam the companies.

It does seem, sometimes, that insurance companies charge very high premiums, and their decision to pay and how much can be a little confusing. The truth is, their prices and procedures are set up to catch swindlers and prevent even more losses than they already sustain. Your insurance is expensive because people cheat. Want to know how? Keep reading.

Car parts are only intended to last so long. Wouldn't it be nice if you could get a new engine or drive train just when the old one was wearing out? Some people do by conveniently having an accident at just the right time.

People are willing to do even more outrageous things, though. For example, a driver will get into a low-speed accident on purpose, just so they can file for thousands of dollars in medical costs. Sometimes they can even get a civil court judgment, too. In reality, the accident was entirely planned and they're not hurt at all.

They may even convince accomplices to ride in the car with them for the collision, so that these people can file claims and suits as well. The accomplices get a certain percentage, and give the remaining money to the "mastermind" of the scam.

Probably the most common example of fraud, though, is the person who gets into a minor accident and doesn't want parts just repaired, but actually replaced. They'll do some extra damage to the car to make sure repair isn't possible.

The last form of fraud we'll cover isn't perpetrated by the car owner at all, but the body shop that works on the car. They will quote a price much higher than what it would take to repair the car, assuming that no one will care enough to check into it.

With all of this going on, insurance companies have to protect their interests. They do so in several ways. First, policies have deductibles. The rationale is that if the driver knows they will have to pay some of the costs, they will be less inclined to make a claim. The second way they combat fraud is to raise rates after an accident. Again, if a person knows they're going to have to pay more for their insurance after an accident, they may be less likely to try a scheme like the ones above. Finally, if all else fails, fraud is a crime, and they can prosecute.

That there are so many different kind of fraud, and so many people willing to commit fraud is amazing to me. It is so sad that people don't care about the consequences to other people, just to make some easy money for themselves. It's not fair that we have to pay for this abuse, but we do. Your high premiums and deductibles are a way to make back the money lost to fraud.

7 Auto Insurance Answers You Should Know

Auto insurance guards you against monetary loss if you have an car accident. It is a agreement between you and the insurance company. The premium for the policy is paid and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as outlined in your policy. Auto insurance companies provide property, liability and medical coverage

Property coverage reimburses for damage to or theft of your automobile.Liability coverage reimburses for your lawful responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage..Medical coverage reimburses for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation therapy, sometimes lost wages, and funeral expenses

Motor Vehicle Losses
In the past individual's would only use their own vehicle. However, today in our society today a family will have 2 plus vehicles and possibly drive a car or truck registered to and employer.

1. QUESTION: I work using my car to deliver pizza. Does my insurance cover me while I am driving for this employer?

ANSWER: Probably not. Most passenger auto insurance policies do not provide coverage when the vehicle is used to deliver property, i.e. pizzas or people for a fee (salary, tips, etc.). Coverage would probably be denied if an accident occurred while you were using your personal vehicle for these purposes. Check with your employer to determine if the they could provide you coverage while you are driving for this employer.

2. QUESTION: My driver's license expired a few days ago. I borrowed my neighbor's car, with his permission, the neighbor's insurance carrier and mine have denied the claim. Saying I didn't have a right to drive the car, because I had no current driver's license. Can the carrier do this?

ANSWER: Many policies state that you are not insured in these circumstances, as you were fully aware that you could not legally drive the car. However, check with your locate Motor Vehicles Division (DMV) to verify if there is a grace period for and expired driver's license.

Auto Repair Quality

A Policy Holder of Atlanta Auto Insurance will reach an agreement with the insurance company as to the dollar value of the claim. The body shop did not repair to the standard of the original manufacturers standards and the owners. This can cause obvious problems, the consumer must contract with a body shop and approve the completed job. The Insurance carrier will not contract repairs for your vehicle, the policy holder is responsible to do this, for obvious reasons.

3. QUESTION: I was in an auto accident with one other party. The other party was at fault. The liability coverage has been paid to me for the cost of repairs, but the body shop has not repaired the car satisfactorily. What can I do?

ANSWER: Although you settled the claim with the insurance company, your problem is with the body shop, with whom you contracted for the repairs. Do not pay the shop until you are satisfied with the completed job. You may have to settle the dispute with the shop through litigation in civil court. The Insurance Commissioner's office has no authority over the repair facility. You may want to contact the better business bureau.

4. QUESTION: My insurance company has an estimate to repair my car for $1450.00 from a local body shop, but I want to have the car repaired at another shop for $250.00 more. Can I require the insurance company o pay me the difference between the two estimates?

ANSWER: If the estimate of the Insurance company is that of a reputable body shop or if any other shop will do the work for that amount, the insurance company will not have to pay you the difference in the estimate. You can, of course, take your car to any shop of your choice, but in these circumstances you have to pay the cost differential.

5. QUESTION: The insurance company wants to use aftermarket parts rather than original manufacturer's parts. Is that legal?

ANSWER: Yes, as long as the estimate indicates such parts are being used, and the guarantee of the manufacturer is stated on the estimate.
Liability Claims from Third Party

These claims are asserted against a consumer, based on the allegation that the loss resulted from the consumer's alleged negligence. In brief, it protects that consumer, up to the amount of insurance involved from adverse judgments. That if not otherwise paid, can become a lien on your home or real property.

6. QUESTION: The other party's insurance company has denied my claim stating their insured was not liable, although I provided them with a copy of the police report that clearly states their insured was at fault. Can they do this?

ANSWER: The insurance company conducts its own investigation and makes its decision as a result of that investigation. The Georgia Code says that carriers will have a procedure to insure prompt investigation and settlement of claims. Thus a carrier has some leeway in the elements used in investigations. The Carrier may take statements of both drivers and any witnesses, reviewing the police report, inspecting the accident site and checking the points of impact on the involved vehicles.

7. QUESTION: I was in an accident and the other party was clearly at fault and the policeman gave the other guy a ticket. The other guy's insurance company is refusing to pay for my damages because they feel I was somehow at fault. Can't the Commissioner's office force the other guy's insurance company to pay for my damages?

ANSWER: Determining who was at fault, blame or legally liable in an auto accident does not fall under the legal purview of the Commissioner's office. This involves a question of fact and a civil matter which can only be settled in the proper court. However, your Insurance company should be able to settle the matter in your favor if what you say is fact.

Four Costly Misconceptions You Must Know Before Purchasing a New Windshield For Your Automobile

Facts are if your windshield has been damaged by rocks or debris, 90% of the time this damage can be repaired successfully. That means you won't need to spend the time or money to have a new windshield installed anyway, and most insurance companies love for their customers to have their windshields repaired before its too late and the cracks spread across the glass too far. They will even reward you by reimbursing the entire cost for a repair and not increase your rates, go against your policy's deductible and spells no costs to you. You've been paying them all that money for years anyway, you might as well have them help you out, and windshield repairs are one of the few areas where they will pay you.

If you can find a company that only works on repairs to fix windshield chips, stars, and cracks you won't even need this information. A company like that will not try to use the old bait and switch sales method, where they come out to fix a small rock chip or crack but they have the windshield on their truck that just happens to fit your auto. You know the rest, they can't fix your windshield so the only alternative is to put the new in they just happen to have on the truck. They got all that information from you when you called them to check on their price to fix your windshield.

A company that is only in business to repair auto glass makes their living from fixing or repairing the windshield verses trying to sell you on a new one. In contrast, a company that is replacing glass really only makes the income they want when they are slapping on new windshields. Repairs as an option are just a way to get to talk to you about purchasing a new one from them.

Now here's Misconception # 1: All windshields are the same.
No. Usually the best windshield is the one that the manufacturer installed in the car when it was new. Aftermarket windshields tend to be thinner and more brittle which will cause it to break easier, and they don't fit your car properly. Many of these cheaper windshields must be forced to fit your vehicle. Also, an aftermarket windshield may deduct from the value of your vehicle when you trade it in, and you may be charged by your leasing company for not having the original equipment. Each windshield has a tag in one corner that indentifies the manufacturer and grade of the glass so this information is readily available.

Misconception #2: Your windshield is not considered part of the safety equipment of your car.
No. The engineers of today's vehicles use the windshield to help restrain you and your family from being ejected in case of an

accident. Windshields are designed to support the roof in case your vehicle rolls over in a crash, plus it helps the airbag to deploy properly. An improperly installed windshield could put you and your family at great risk in the case of an accident.

Misconception #3: You can safely drive your car immediately after a new windshield is installed.
No. This could be a deadly mistake. The adhesives that hold your windshield in place take time to set up. This could be as few as 2

hours to as much as 24 hours, and even this will vary greatly with weather conditions. The warmer and wetter the faster the

adhesives cure. The colder and drier the longer it takes to cure. Another problem with driving the vehicle too soon is the windshield

could shift slightly and cause it to leak when it rains or cause annoying air leaks that require reinstallation of the glass. This is why fixing a rock chip or crack damage should always be your first choice. Repairs save your auto's original equipment eliminating these issues altogether.

Misconception #4: You must go where your insurance company tells you to go to have your auto glass replaced.
No. By law, as a policy holder, you have the right to choose any auto glass shop. The insurance company cannot direct you or influence you to go to a particular shop as a condition for payment. In addition, many insurance companies use glass networks as a means of handling their claims. You may be told to call an 800 number to submit your claim or fill out a form on a website. If so, you may be arbitrarily sent to a glass shop that doesn't adhere to the strict standards that your vehicle manufacturer recommends.

If you have comprehensive insurance on your vehicle, calling around to get prices is a waste of your time since the price has already been negotiated in advance with your insurance company. Most consumers carry $500 deductibles so if a replacement windshield is $300, they pay the full amount with no help from the insurance company.
If you have no coverage or a high deductible, make sure you get an estimate in writing in advance to avoid any bait and switch tactics used by some windshield replacement companies. Remember these shops make more money on replacements then repairs. They will be ready to tell you that the damage cannot be repaired or they may quote you an unreasonably high price to fix your original windshield to tempt you to go for their new one. Always remember if the price is too good to be true it probably is.

There are the four misconceptions consumers must be aware of before purchasing a new auto windshield. But-if you want your vehicle to be returned to its original crash worthiness - helping to keep you and your family safe - get your windshield repaired as soon as the damage occurs. You wouldn't throw away your tires if they just had a small puncture, so get your windshield repaired instead of waiting until its too late. This information will save you time, and money which we all could use a little of.

Is an Auto Body Franchise a Good Investment?

Deciding to invest in a franchise is a great choice. Franchises are known for having more success than opening a new business from scratch. This is because they have already developed a system and worked out all or at least most of the kinks. Even though some of the steps are done for you, you can still be your own boss and manage your own business with a franchise. One of the hardest decisions is what type of franchise to open. One idea is to invest in an auto body franchise. Is that a wise decision?

Well you must first remember that each person must decide what type of franchise is right for them. There is no single franchise that is right for every person. You must consider your interests, abilities, and your goals. All of those things must be given consideration when choosing a franchise to invest your time and money into.

But, if you are interested in cars and know a little about them and can work on them an auto body shop is a great choice. There are many auto body franchises to choose from so there should be at least one that will help you meet your goals personally and financially. Most auto body shops also offer a variety of services that you can learn about to increase your knowledge which is always a good thing.

Something to Consider: There are more than 275 million vehicles on the road this year alone, that number is increasing yearly by about 5%. That means that there is a huge market for the auto repair industry. In 2006 there were over 68,000 accidents total in the U.S. Just think with increasing vehicles on the road, there will be an increase of accidents to follow. That is by no means a good thing, but that tells you that there are a lot of vehicles that will need repair. That number of vehicles on the road will only continue growing as will your auto body franchise business. There is always room to grow each year in an auto body repair franchise.

With all of those accidents each vehicle will need something different as far as repairs go. So, you want to make sure that you chose an auto body franchise that offers a wide variety of services. Customers are also looking for the latest technology in everything. So, also make sure that they offer the best systems to repair your future customer's vehicles. You should also invest in an auto body company that has a good reputation, even if it is not a long history, you want a good history. This is a big thing that customers look for when repairing anything on their vehicle. You must have good word of mouth reputation!

If you think that an auto body franchise is a great choice for you, you are heading toward great things! Start looking today for an auto body franchise that meets all of your goals and grow into a great career as a franchisee!

Truck Auto Repair - What You Need to Know

According to the organizations that keep track of Internet search statistics, the number of people looking for information around the term 'truck auto repair' has been on an abated upward trend in recent years. The term itself can be seen as being a reference to the whole range of auto repair services (that is, vehicle repair services) that are targeted at trucks. Of course, what qualifies to be termed as a 'truck' varies from person to person. On the one hand, there are some people who view a truck as any vehicle with a larger portion of it customized for carrying cargo (so that a pick up also qualifies to be called a 'truck'). On the other hand, there are others restricting the name 'truck' to the reference of those heavy commercial vehicles, otherwise known as lorries.

Whatever the description of a truck one ultimately falls for, the term truck auto repair refers to the whole range of restorative and maintenance functions carried out on such trucks. On the restorative side, we have the repair of both the minor and major faults that the trucks in question develop; whereas on the maintenance bit, we have regular procedures that are carried out to enhance the performance of the truck.

Traditionally, truck repair was carried out in general garages (so that the occasional truck could just check into the garage like any other vehicle, and get sorted). In recent days, though, we have seen the emergence of specialized truck repair centers; with many companies that own and make extensive use of trucks opting to establish in-house truck auto repair departments.

Now whether you opt to outsource the function, or keep it in-house, it is essential to be 'quality-focused,' and not just 'cost-focused' when shopping for people to provide you with truck repair services. In other words, you should not only be looking for the most cost-effective service provider, but also for the most competent service provider. Insisting on going for the very cheapest service providers you can lay your hands on can often backfire in nasty ways. This is like where such cheap service providers (who may be making use of unqualified mechanics) end up messing your truck so much that you end up spending much more money having it sorted. Of course, this is not to say that the priciest service providers are always the best. It is to say that when looking for truck auto repair services, you need to keep in mind the fact that your truck is a highly-priced asset; whose health you surely cannot entrust to anyone.

Also worth taking note of is the fact that the truck repair business is one that has been very greatly affected by technology in recent years. You therefore need to ensure that the truck repair service providers you go for are those who have kept, or at least made an attempt to keep up with the technology. At the very least, ensure that they are people who are technologically-competent to handle your truck (especially if it is a new truck). Take note that some of these technological advancements are fast 'rendering obsolete' truck repair service providers who don't make an effort to keep up!

Windshield Sun Shade - Beat The Heat And Protect Your Vehicle Interior

The sun is shining down and so is it's scorching heat. We all like sun bathing and but not dealing with the effects of the heat in our cars. The sun's UV rays can be harsh to your car's interior and especially during peak summer months, which makes having a windshield sun shade a necessity for any vehicle. Direct sunlight burning through a car windshield results in extreme temperatures inside your vehicle, and can cause of damage to the dash, seat materials and even personally when coming into contact with hot metal or plastic. Windshield sun shades play a significant role in keeping the car interiors cool and protecting the interior material from fading while the vehicle is parked at the beach, work, airport or anywhere else.

Windshield covers help in reducing the temperature of car's interior, by effectively obstructing the sun and harmful UV rays. A simple single windshield shade combats 99.5% of harmful UV rays and up to 80% of the solar energy, that can keep your car up to 50 degrees cooler than without it. It features a triple laminate structure where the middle foam core is laminated between the two layers of silver reflective surface and a soft felt inner surface on both sides. The sandwiched foam layer acts as an insulator that protects the car interior and the outer silver surface reflects the harmful rays, thus blocking them from raising the temperature inside the car.

These heat shields are lightweight and made in various forms as well as designs. For ease of use, they are either made to unfold or roll over the windshield. These are made to fit every windshield of almost all car and truck makes and models. These car sunshades are often custom printed with the messages or pictures, for a personal touch that looks quite unique and attractive. The idea triggered many marketing teams of auto dealers, insurance companies, and other businesses who now use this heat shade as a customized platform for their advertising.

In addition to cooling down your sizzling dashboard, there are few more advantages associated with its use. Since the car will remain cooler with a shade, there will be less fuel consumption to cool the car, which consequently will save you money. Another important function performed by this windshield cover is that it hides the things left in the car and prevents people from seeing into your vehicle.

A windshield sun shade is easy to use and gives you all the benefits by allowing your car and truck to stay cool and protected in the sun. By protecting the car interior from detrimental UV rays, it helps retain it's true market value. There are many reasons to own car sun shield with the most important climbing into a cooler comfortable car when the temperatures are climbing.

To learn more about the benefits of a windshield sun shade and the different styles available visit this excellent online resource.

Online Auto Repair Manuals Can Be Great Money Savers

Auto repair manuals online or on the internet can actually save you lots of money. Since you obviously are interested in this information, I'll bet you are one of the smart automobile owners that want to utilize all the information you can get to diagnose problems with their car before they take it to the mechanic or fix it themselves.

There are some nice resources of car repair manuals available on the internet today. These are available online along with Repair Procedures as well as detailed diagnostic and troubleshooting guides.

Repair Job Standards or Labor Guides

As a matter of fact, very few car owners trust their mechanics hundred percent. I'm not surprised. I guess you also have have had the feeling that a car repair has taken unnecessary long time. The good news is that there are guides available used by professional mechanics. These helps you estimate the repair job, and thus telling you how long a particular car fix should take. This would be a useful thing to bring to the table next time you argue with your mechanic, wouldn't it?

TSBs or Technical Service Bulletins

These are

issued by car manufacturers

aimed to help automotive technicians diagnose and repair problems reported by consumers and repair shops.

up-to-date factory fixes for hard to diagnose problems

When you search for the TSB you need to use the make, model and year of car as search term. An amazingly high number of fixes are found in these bulletins, and most of those can't be found anywhere else. It describe service procedures and even factory authorized modification for your motorcar.

Safety Recall Notices

These are Official Safety Recall Notices issued from the vehicle manufacturers to inform vehicle owners of car defects that have come to the manufacturer's attention.

the recalls normally review and suggest improvements that can be made to improve the safety of a particular vehicle.

the recall work can often be performed by your auto dealer for free.

It is very smart to keep track of which recall notices have been issued on your vehicle, because it helps you keep it in the best and safest working order.

My conclusion is that if you want to save money, online auto repair manuals are a must.

Mobile Car Glass Repair: Many Auto Glass Shops Offer the Convenience That Comes to You

Making arrangements for chipped windshield repair is an inconvenience many drivers have to contend with at some point. The good news, in many cases, is that auto glass repair services will often come to your location, eliminating the hassle of having to leave your vehicle at their shop.

Car and truck windshields are built to be strong and resistant to impact, but even the latest technology can't always prevent cracks, chips, and other types of windshield damage. One of the most common causes of minor windshield damage is flying or falling objects, such as stones, rocks, or chunks of ice. Depending on the severity, rock chip repair can be a lot simpler and much less expensive than a full windshield replacement. Regardless of what caused the crack or chip, many automotive experts caution against postponing auto glass repair. Windshield cracks can often get worse if not repaired in a timely way, which can further compromise the ability of the windshield to provide protection and driving safety. Cracks and chips that occur in a driver's line of vision can also create a potential hazard by diminishing visibility.

When windshield replacement or auto glass repair becomes a necessity, mobile windshield repair services are often available to reduce the inconvenience. If mobile windshield repair can be arranged, it's possible to have the technician come to your location, rather than having to drop your car off at the local auto glass shop. Automobile insurance may cover at least part of the cost of windshield repairs or replacement, so the expense of the service should be somewhat offset. If you're fortunate enough to find a service-oriented auto glass repair shop, they'll provide a free estimate, a lifetime warranty on labor, and even take care of the insurance paperwork for you.

Helpful information about auto glass repair can be easily found from a variety of sources on the Internet, including the National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA). Searching online for the phrase "windshield repair facts" is another way to find answers to frequently asked questions. To increase the likelihood that quality control standards are followed when you need auto glass repair, the association advises consumers to seek out the services of an NWRA-certified technician. According to the trade association, a technician well trained in rock chip repair should do a final inspection of the windshield from the driver's seat to "ensure clarity without distraction." One indication that a chipped windshield repair has been done properly is that the point of impact has been made flush with the surface of the windshield. If that detail has been neglected, there will be a problem with the proper functioning of the windshield wipers.

To be an informed consumer and to make sure the windshield replacement or repair remains securely intact, there are several important questions to ask the auto glass repair technician or service manager. After a windshield has been replaced, a driver usually has to wait from one to three hours before the car can be safely driven--sometimes longer. That's important information to know, along with any recommended waiting time before being able to safely drive the vehicle through a car wash.

The Three Most Common & Expensive Repairs to Avoid When Used Car Shopping

When shopping for a used car the obvious goal is to locate a reasonably priced vehicle that is relatively free of mechanical deficiencies. As part of the buying process you must inspect the vehicle to determine the condition. Many people elect to have used cars inspected by a mechanic previous to making a purchase offer however there are limitations to this process.

It is not practical to pay a mechanic to inspect every vehicle that you consider a possibility to buy. Specifically the cost and time associated with the inspection, coupled with the fact that the majority of used cars are overpriced and require extensive repairs to make them roadworthy, make this an impractical enterprise. In order to maximise the cost versus benefit of paying a mechanic to inspect a used car you must be able to determine, at least somewhat, a viable used car option.

If you are able to determine a likely candidate for a good deal on your own, this can help to narrow the field of potential vehicles down. If you are able to determine which vehicles require repairs which are too expensive to consider buying then you will drastically reduce the amount of wasted time and money you spend hiring professionals for their opinions.

Listed below are the most common as well as most expensive vehicle repairs that you will encounter when used car shopping:

New Transmissions - A new transmission in a car requires specially qualified mechanics and often will cost more than replacing an entire engine. This is especially true for automatic transmission cars. When considering buying a car with an automatic transmission it is essential that you research the specific year, make and model of car you are looking at to determine if it has a reputation of premature failure with the transmission. In person, the most accurate test you can do to is to smell the transmission fluid by checking the transmission fluid dipstick. The transmission oil should be red and will become discoloured over time from heat, dirt and mechanical wear. If the transmission fluid smells burnt this is a clear indication that advanced transmission wear is present and this vehicle should be avoided. Additionally a test drive that allows the car to shift into every gear is essential. Listen for any sounds emanating from the transmission such as whining as you accelerate. Also note if the vehicle changes gears smoothly. Any cars with leaks in the transmission system should be avoided. Unlike the engine where small oil leaks are not uncommon especially in higher mileage vehicles, leaks in the transmission are a big problem and should be avoided.

New Engines - Much as you would expect new engines in a car are very expensive. Even rebuilt engines or replacing a blown engine with a used motor can be one of the most costly items that a used car could require. The oil in the engine will be your biggest insight into the condition of the engine overall. An engine that leaks oil is an indication that the car has been abused or not properly maintained in the past. Check the oil in the car, which should be clear-ish and light brown in color. Black oil is a sign of engine deposits and grime and are an indication that the inside of the engine is dirty. A car that has not had regular oil changes will have black oil even shortly after a fresh oil change. Oil that is coffee coloured, or milky brown, can be an indication that radiator coolant is leaking into the engine. This is a sign of internal engine damage from either a cracked head or leaking head gasket - both things that you need to avoid if you are looking for an engine that will last for any reasonable period of time. Another indication of this problem can be found by looking in the radiator itself (NOT to be done while the engine is hot, or even warm unless you are trained at how to do this as it is dangerous). If you find evidence of oil mixed in with the engine coolant, or evidence that the coolant level is lower than what it should be you need to skip this vehicle and move onto the next

Rust & Rot - The third most expensive repair that you can encounter with a used car is extensive rust or rot anywhere on the car. Rust is considered the cancer of used cars and can cause extensive in so many ways that it would be impossible to list them all. One of the worst areas for rot would be on the frame of the car itself as repairs to this are exceedingly difficult and time consuming to perform. Some vehicles with advanced rot to the undercarriage and frame will be beyond the scope of fixing and you may find yourself with a car that is not drivable at all. Always inspect used cars in good light, and be sure to have a good flashlight with you to inspect the underside of the car. Especially in cold weather climates where road salt is commonly used you will find many used cars that are rusted beyond the point of repair.

There are of course many other items, both mechanical and otherwise, that must be inspected before you can purchase a used car with confidence. These are simply a few of the more common failures to look for and avoid when used car shopping.

Seeking Employment in Auto Body Repair Shops

Automotive repair is a great business that does not seem to be on the decline. Due to the recession, individual sales may have dropped off, but that means that cars that are on the road right now are getting older. It is only a matter of time before repairs will be essential in the maintenance of these vehicles.

Because there will always be a high demand for skilled laborers in this field, getting a job in the auto body repair business will ensure job security well into the future. Since is it unlikely that cars will become obsolete in the near future, exploring this field offers incredible job security. The question is, "How can you go about getting a job in the auto repair industry?"

All people desiring to be a mechanic need certain background information and training before they can even touch a car. There is an endless world of knowledge on the topic of cars and a mechanic needs to be able to sift his or her way through all the rhetoric. The first and best stop on the way to being mechanic would be a proper education.

Many high schools still offer auto-shop as part of its elective curriculum. If a person is past their high school days, then there are many technical institutes all over the country that teach courses in all levels of auto body and maintenance repairs. After formal training in school is complete, there is also an apprenticeship period. This is where a young mechanic learns from older ones on the job.

For generations, families in America have made their livings as mechanics in a business that shows little signs of slowing down. Auto body repair shops are at the core of this industry and will remain in place as long as people are driving cars. It is a solid career path that ensures the survival of mechanics because as long as there is demand for a mechanic, then there will always be a supply of them. Be sure to read up on employment opportunities if you plan on committing to this field.

Teaching Tomorrow's Auto Mechanics

Teaching a vocational auto mechanics program to high school students is a great way to keep them interested in learning. The unfortunate thing to note is that not all high schools offer this type of a program. However, in light of this issue many vocational and technical colleges offer auto mechanic classes for high school students during the summer and during the school year for a few hours each week. Taking a class of this sort will teach high school students two things that will help them through out their life. The tutor saliba learning method has been adapted to the vocational-tech curriculum for auto mechanics. This makes it easier for future mechanics to learn effectively through specialized teaching methods of speaking, seeing or hearing.

The first thing that it will teach them is a skill for their future. Many students go thorough high school without actually deciding what it is that they want to do in life. This class enables them to develop a skill that allows them to have a future when many of them may not have much hope. Whether they use the auto mechanic skills learned as a lifetime career or temporarily to pay for college, it gives them the keys to their future. It helps them to have a means of independence and a means to accomplish their goals in life. This is something that no teenager should be without. For some students, this may be the only chance that they have to carve out their own life and to accomplish their personal goals.

The second thing that this class will teach students is the value of hard work. In today's society, a growing number of teens are developing a self-entitled attitude. They feel that they are entitled to have whatever it is that they desire without having to work for it. They have the idea that because of who they are they should be entitled to the best jobs and the best career opportunities. However, once out in the real world they discover that potential employers do not share their thoughts and they are at a loss for what to do. A vocational auto mechanics class is a great way for a student to learn that the only way to move forward in life is to work hard and get an education.

An auto mechanics vocational class is fun for most teen-agers. Although fun, it is also a tool in preparing them for life. The lasting skills and character traits that the students develop through the class will help to truly prepare them for life as an independent adult. They can learn a solid career skill that could be further developed and turned into a career that they enjoy. It could also allow them to put themselves through college when they would not have had a chance otherwise. It teaches hard work and perseverance over problems by using their brains and reasoning skills, rather than weapons and drugs.

Auto Glass Repair - Should You Repair Or Replace Your Windshield?

One of the biggest businesses out there is auto glass repair because cracked windshields are extremely common. The windshield on a vehicle is designed to keep passengers and drivers from any debris on the road that could fly up and cause harm. However, when you're traveling around quickly, even just a small rock on the road can end up chipping or fracturing your windshield. The question is, should you repair it or do you need to have the whole thing replaced?

The chip or crack has surfaced and now you have to make a decision to contact an auto glass repair shop to repair the chip or crack or to have the whole windshield replaced. A small chip or crack can continue to get larger over time. This can be due to several circumstances, but the main one is that driving causes stress that will cause the damage to get worse. This is magnified with bumpier roads being driven on. The weather can also cause chips and cracks to enlarge when certain conditions exist. Sadly, the car air conditioning can add to the issue also.

When you first discover a crack or chip is the time to have an auto glass repair shop make the repair. If accomplished quickly, this might make the difference between repair and replacement. Repair versus replacement costs vary widely, but are usually found to be significantly more expensive when replacement is involved. Basically, your insurance company will allow you to have the windshield replaced with a deductible taking place on your part. This would not apply if you don't have collision included in your policy in most states.

Auto glass repair shops can repair smaller chips and cracks with ease. You can also buy auto glass repair products from your local auto parts store or go on the internet to locate these repair kits. This applies to the individual that is comfortable with doing it yourself. If you are not certain the damage can be safely repaired, then err on the side of caution, and let the professionals take care of it.

If repair is out of the equation, just know that the auto glass repair industry is alive and competitive. Shopping around to secure the best prices and service should provide gratifying results. You should realize that repair is not an option if the crack is longer than 3-4 inches or goes from edge to edge and if the chip has penetrated all sections of the piece of glass.

The idea of the story here is that if the damage is not large and does not penetrate the glass fully and if you act fast, you can often times repair the damage instead of having to replace the whole piece. When it comes to auto glass repair, there is a lot more than meets the eye, so if you are not confident, get a pro involved.

Repeat Customers Are Key for Auto Repair Shops

Owners of auto repair shops depend on repeat customers in order to have a thriving, successful business. Part of what makes customers return, or better yet, refer the services of a mechanic or particular repair shop, is the quality of service. By giving customer's cars preventative care in order to avoid them having difficulties while on the road helps to ensure they will become dedicated to the services being provided by that particular shop or service center.

In those instances when customers are unsatisfied, or worse, have complaints that their car was damaged, having insurance for auto repair shops will certainly come in handy.

Automobile Maintenance

By thoroughly inspecting any car brought in for service or repairs, a mechanic can find those "little things" that a car owner can have done to their vehicles, while still in the shop, to prevent them having to return days later to have the vehicle looked at because of some minor problem they may be experiencing.

Windshield Wiper Replacement

It's much easier to avoid hitting things that can be seen, therefore have them replace old or cracked windshield wipers before they become completely useless.

Fall is the ideal wiper replacement time, after the heat of summer and before the winter weather begins. Depending on location, replacement may be an annual affair in the Southwest, to a biannual chore in northern climates.

Tightening The Gas Cap

If the "Check Engine" light is on, then make sure the gas cap is on tightly, as this is one of the most common ways of setting off a car's diagnostic system, since a loose gas cap defeats the fuel system's venting arrangement.

Spark Plug Replacement

With newer cars, valves no longer need adjusting, ignition timing is computer controlled and there are no carburetors to fiddle with. About all that's left of the old tune-up drill are the spark plugs. These are often good for 100,000 miles, and should be checked during the 60,000- and 120,000-mile services when the timing belt, spark plug wires and coolant are due for replacement.

Oil Change Timing

Oil changes every 3,000 miles used to be required, but today, advances in engine design and lubricants make oil changes something to be done when the schedule calls for it. Other things that can be done while servicing a customer's vehicle includes checking for:

• Proper tire inflation and rotation


• Dirty air filters


• Replacement of brake shoes and pads (if necessary)


• Replacing worn tires (as needed)

By taking the time and doing these added value procedures an auto repair shop can grow their business.

Motorcycle Pinstriping - You Too Can Get Professional Results

If you want to create something unique when creating a custom bike then pinstriping is worth considering. Although no specialist skills are needed for pinstriping as the task is made simpler through using templates and stencil tape. But if you do find the whole process difficult or you aren't able to get the look you want then the motorcycle pinstriping can be completed at an auto body shop and they will make sure that each pinstripe on it is perfect. With pinstriping you are aiming to create a new and unique look to your motorcycle that will make it stand out from the rest.

Motorcycle pinstriping has been around for many years and has continued to gain popularity among motorcycle owners. Beginning in the 1950s, vehicle pinstriping became a way of decorating vehicles and has come a long way since. For those who enjoy showcasing, motorcycle pinstriping is an important asset in the appearance of the motorcycle.

Look at what interests you have when trying to choose a pinstripe design for your motorcycle. If once you know what it is you want to do you have the choice of buying a readymade pinstripe design stencil or template, or you can have a go at doing the pinstripe design yourself freehand.

The appliance of motorcycle pinstriping can be carried out either using a kit or getting an auto body shop to do it. The kits available contain stencils that allow you to have a consistent outline for the design chosen, and for the stencils to be applied onto a motorcycle one needs to get some pinstriping paint and brushes. However, more often motorcycle pinstriping is carried out in an auto body shop where the pinstripers will apply the design freehand. No matter what technique is used the motorcycle pinstriping needs to be carefully applied so that it adds the custom look to the motorcycle.

Along with careful application of the designs, motorcycle pinstriping requires special tools to be used. A pinstriping brush should be used as the primary tool of the application process. The use of this special brush will result in a professional design on your motorcycle even if you create the design at home. The brushes are structured to provide comfort and control as you apply your design.

Another piece of equipment needed is a pinstriping tool and using this ensures that the motorcycle pinstriping can be applied thoroughly as one paints the edges of the bike. It allows you not only to paint a single straight line but sets of parallel ones as well. Using these tools will ensure that the motorcycle design looks neat and the quality of the work is high.

Motorcycle pinstriping does offer a number of benefits to a bike owner. However, you need to remember that when applying motorcycle pinstriping it has to be done carefully and neatly to ensure that the professional look is maintained. To create perfect pinstripes is going to take time and you will need plenty of patience. However, if you are able to master this skill using the various different techniques for applying you will be able to create a completely unique look for your motorcycle. If you are able to gain an interest and understanding of motorcycle pinstriping then you will begin to appreciate these unique designs more.

Auto Repair Shop Invoices and Forms

Don't underestimate the importance of having professional stationery to conduct your business on a day-to-day basis. Your invoices/forms, business cards, letterheads, envelopes, folders, etc., represents your company and sends a message, whether positive or negative. People are greatly influenced by your stationery and you should use this to your advantage. You should also be aware that no matter how great a company you have, unprofessional stationery can hurt you business in a bad way.

Auto repair shops use invoices and forms to conduct their business on a daily basis. It could be for an oil change, an engine repair, tune ups, or whatever the case may be. The customer expects to get an invoice or receipt with detail information of the job and the costs involved.

Here are some advantages of having professionally made invoices to give to your customer:
1. It helps both you and the customer keep proper accounting records
2. It gives you an opportunity to help maintain your corporate identity
3. Use it to advertise your business - make sure you contact information in on it
4. It helps to settle disagreements or disputes in the case where there are problems

There are both manual and computer invoices. Most computer invoice is software that you can install on your computer. Manual invoices are pre-made with all your contact information and terms and conditions. You can purchase invoices from most printers in different sizes and number of parts. They are made from carbonless paper so that when you write on the first copy, it is automatically printed on the pages below.

It may seem like common sense, but always make sure the individual fees add up to the same value listed here. It is quite common to simply assume they both match, but a few moments double checking these can sometimes save you a substantial amount.

A repair invoice should be as clear, detailed and easy to understand as possible. If you are having trouble reading or understanding a charge, the shop should be able and willing to explain things to your satisfaction

When you create an auto repair invoice for your business you should make sure that your logo, your address, telephone number, fax number, website and email address are on it. You want to keep your information consistent with other stationery like your letterheads and envelopes. There are many print shops that print invoices and other carbonless forms for a low cost. Make sure you have proper invoices and forms to conduct your business in a professional manner.

Things You Must Know About Auto Body Repair

An auto body repair is an all-inclusive process where your damaged car will be refurbished to its previous form after it met with an accident. It is a process by which the dents and the spoiled parts of the car are being modified to give a new outward appearance.

After the value of the revamp of the car is estimated and approved by the insurance company, the auto body repair company is expected to use all its modern techniques of repairing process like electrical and computer wiring setting up, auto body painting, welding, sheet metal fabrication and ultimately inculcating the appliances of the updated recent vehicles suggested by the customers.

An auto body repair process demands plenty of experience and skills from a mechanic who performs these complicated repairs. So they maintain an amalgamation of painters, electricians, welders and other technicians who are effective and knowledgeable in their respectable field.

So as to revamp your car, the various requirement of an automobile body repair are listed below.

• Reinstate all original, electronics and mechanical functions of the vehicle.
• Rebuild all the safety features of the vehicle to its original standard.
• Matching the new paint to original paint of the damaged part.
• Matching the shape and outline of the part like panels and trims
• Bending the frames to its original alignment.

Picking on an automobile body repair

It is not very difficult to find an auto body shop but you should know exactly whether it is the right place for the kind of service you are looking for. Also check for the training certifications and certificates of achievement in the store, see whether the shop is hygienic and neatly arranged and also check whether they provide all the facilities you require.

In order to know the latest information on the auto body repair shop and its present reputation in the market, give a quick call to your local BBB to find out all the possible details. In case, you find the shop is full of activity, it shows that the shop is doing good business and it would be safe to deposit the car here for refurbishment. But it is always better to take a written warranty of the work before you deliver them your car.

Just to benefit the customers, there are few auto body repair shops that offer discount coupons on hired cars or free car rentals at the time when the revamp process takes a little longer to complete. Verify the insurance coverage provided as well as the auto body loan in a situation where the accident of the vehicle is caused by you and compare which would be the ideal credit to avail that would save some money.

Make it a point that there is a suitable police accident label attached on the windshield of your car. This acts as a major requirement in case the damage has exceeded its limit as in the city bylaws and would guide to any of the good auto body repair shops without much harassment to you.

In case of an irregular wiring problem caused by a collision, it can be quite difficult to fix at times in the auto body repair shop. In these situations, the car needs to be sent to the car dealer where it would be thoroughly inspected using the modern software and analytical equipments.

Used Car Buyers Should Visit Auto Body Repair Shops Before A Purchase

Through negligence or outright ignorance, many buyers of used cars end up with lemons or worse, cars that are totally unsafe to use. And sadly, this happens more often to people who are on a budget and are taken in by the low price of a used car. There are many tales of people who are told that the used car they are buying is a bit of a fixer upper, only to find out later that the vehicle has a bent frame. Or that an auto body repair shop has repaired the vehicle from a previous accident so haphazardly that the car is not safe to drive.

Most buyers of used cars know that they should inspect the drivetrain of a car as well as the suspension. Even check for rust in certain spots that tend to pool water. But few bother to question the integrity of a car's structure, specially if the buyer misses signs that the vehicle has been involved in an accident. For a buyer, one of the first things that he or she should spend on is a vehicle history report. Such services abound online, and the thirty to fifty dollars you spend will be a lifesaver if the check reveals that the vehicle has been involved in an accident and the seller does not disclose it. Knowing the severity of an accident will help a buyer decide if the price of a used vehicle is worth it.

A decent auto body repair shop will check out a used car for improper repairs and structural integrity for free or for a nominal fee. In fact, some auto body repair chains are emphatic that used car buyers should bring a prospect car to an auto body repair shop as well as a mechanic. These two areas of a car are equally important, more so now that new vehicle bodies use exotic steels that make a car lighter and stronger, yet more difficult to repair. Traditional methods of heating up the steel to hammer it back into shape will weaken that particular spot, making the vehicle unsafe in an accident. There are cases too where a car repaired from a crash has not had its airbag replaced. Since it is not illegal to sell a car without a working airbag, unscrupulous owners instruct an auto body repair shop to fill the airbag cavity with foam instead. It becomes illegal only when the seller misrepresents the condition of this ubiquitous safety feature when the buyer asks about it. Many do not, and drive away thinking that there is an airbag that will save them in case they crash.

The lesson here is while mechanics are important in checking out a car's engine, drivetrain and suspension, used car buyers should also connect with a reputable auto body repair shop to check out the vehicle before they fork over their money.