Auto Body Hammers - Repair Your Own Car

The auto body hammer was created shortly there after the vehicle was, which have helped autos correct any body work problems. We will cover how you should use a auto body hammer in your garage or shop and what the best strategies are. Auto body hammers may in fact seem simple, but working with an auto hammer isn't easy. Auto hammers are used to help "motivate" tight objects to come undone as well as helping manipulate the shape of metals sheets.

Most people think of a traditional hammer when we mention the term auto body hammer although that's not what these hammers are for. A traditional hammer has a jagged edge on one side designed to take out nails, and the other a flat or curved smaller surface to nail in nails. Since most autos don't require removing nails, they really don't require a normal hammer and require a flatter, which is why they are also called soft tipped hammers. Auto body hammers are designed in a wide type of weights and strengths so that you can manipulate many different type of body panels.

While you are working on your vehicles, you'll come across a wide variety of problems like rust and other body problems which means you may need other tools as well, fiberglass blasters, sanders, and base paints. A lot of the problems with body work are dents. The first thing thing that you will need to do is purchase a dent puller, the reason that dent pullers do what they do is because of how they pull the dent back out. An auto body hammer will most likely be needed to fix the very small problems that are left after using a dent puller.

Next you need to grind away any rust or other body problems that occur prior to prepping for painting, removing dust can be a big problem but if you approach it correctly you can remove any and all signs of rust fairly easily. Now you will need to completely remove all signs of paint including the base, so use 80 grit sandpaper and bring it down to the sheet metal of the car. You'll need to use a paint inhibitor now to remove the remaining amount of paint and be sure that you've prepped it properly.

Remember, prior to any of this type of work you'll want to confirm that you've made everything smooth and brought holes down and the overall shape back to original. Get your auto body filler ready and get to action, this is the final stage prior to your painting job. Auto body fillers are applied using a putty knife and shaped into the original lines that are found on your car. Spend enough time, and even more time then necessary so that you do a great job as this is nearly the last step before you begin a repaint. It typically takes most people a couple times until they get it right so take the extra time to do a job well done.

After checking things out you'll want to use a fine grit to level everything out and make it as smooth as possible. You are just about ready to start the next process of painting or taking your car to the paint shop. Apply the paint, which is a whole topic and article all together.

Auto Repair Marketing - 4 Auto Repair Advertising Ideas

So, you want to get more cars in your shop to increase your revenues is that correct? Auto repair marketing via the internet is a great way to get more local customers into your shop! Online marketing has grown leaps and bounds in the last few years, and with phone books and Yellow Pages fast becoming obsolete, internet marketing is where the real profits are for auto shops. Here I want to share with you 5 auto repair advertising ideas that you can implement into your business to drastically improve the number of cars you service on a monthly basis!

1. You must have a website, and it needs to be designed using the WordPress platform. Most websites are basically just "flyers," but with WordPress you can create great looking websites, integrate a business blog, install a form that automatically acquires leads for you, and integrate your website with Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, and other online marketing channels. Sounds pretty cool huh? The sad part is that typically an automotive repair shop will hire a web designer, and he will design a website as cheaply as possible and charge a large sum for the work. The web designer is not a marketing consultant, so instead of designing a marketing machine based on tested internet marketing principles, he simply designs a static site that is not conducive to internet marketing. I see it all of the time when I am look at people who are pushing auto repair marketing services.

2. One of the best auto repair advertising ideas revolves around social media. Websites such as Twitter and Facebook are really taking off, and smart auto shops are using these auto repair marketing platforms to promote their business and acquire new customers. The obvious question is "how can an auto repair shop benefit from Twitter and Facebook marketing?" Those sites are for kids right? Wrong! Facebook has millions of adults logging in on a daily basis, as does Twitter. By being on these sites, you are instantly in front of a large portion of your local or regional audience. Guess what happens when Sally needs a new transmission, brakes, etc. and she sees your businesses profile on Facebook? You have a new customer! Do a good job repairing her vehicle, and she comes back time and time again. This one person seeing your business profile on Facebook or Twitter could easily be worth thousands of dollars to your business!

3. Your website needs to appear in local search results on Google. It is not easy to get listed on the first page of Google and Yahoo, but with some good marketing it can be done. For instance, I am an independent marketing consultant in Atlanta, and I rank #1 on Google for the term "Atlanta independent marketing consultant." In addition to this, I rank #2 on Yahoo for "Atlanta marketing consultant." Trust me, having your website ranking highly for local keyword phrases can bring you a ton of new business! This is auto repair marketing at its finest! I have beat out over 2,000 websites to get those rankings, so don't you think I could help your auto repair shop marketing efforts?

4. Another great auto repair marketing idea is writing information articles and press releases. I imagine you do not have the time to write articles, and certainly do not have the time to put together a well written press release. The good news is that you can get marketing firms to do this for you at a very reasonable price. I have written hundreds of articles promoting by marketing consulting business, and I can tell you it is an impactful and very affordable method to market your auto repair shop online.

These are just a few auto repair advertising ideas that you can add to your auto repair marketing arsenal. The best thing is to hire a professional marketing consultant who can come in and show you step by step exactly what you need to do to turn your internet marketing efforts into a cash generating machine for your automotive repair business!

Suicide Doors

Suicide doors are a way to instantly spruce up a car and make it look exotic and cool. There are a lot of things that you can do to a car, but changing up the doors puts you step ahead of most car enthusiasts.

Suicide doors get their names because they were believed to be much more dangerous then conventional doors. Back in the day, when cars with these types of doors got into crashes, they would often open and the occupants would be ejected and many times were killed.

These doors were also more apt to open up when the car was moving, especially when driven around curves. Another danger associated with the doors is that when people get out of the car, passing cars are not able to see the passengers. If a passing car hits the open door, the exiting passenger is likely to get smashed and the door knocked off of its' hinges. As you see, suicide doors were named this because of the various dangers associated with them.

Most of these problems were with cars that were manufactured in the 1950's and 1960's. Today, many of these problems are non-existent. In fact, some of the world's most expensive cars use them. However, suicide doors aren't just for the rich. For a few thousand dollars, you can modify your own car and add them.

Suicide doors open in reverse. Wires must be extended a few feet through the power mirrors, door controls and speakers. The wiring will have to come out of the door and be routed through the car's body. You can do this yourself or get someone who is familiar with electronics. If you don't know anyone personally, you will want to take your vehicle to a body shop and have them modify your car for you.

Before you install your suicide doors, you will need to consider a few things. Check your warranty and see if it will still cover your car if you apply major modifications. Also, find out if our car will still pass inspection if the doors are really tricked out. Next, consider who is going to be riding in the car. Will they have problems entering or exiting the vehicle? Will you? If the answer is yes to any of the above questions, you may want to reconsider getting suicide doors.

If you decide to get your doors modified through a body shop, expect to pay between $3000 and $5,000. Most of this money will be going towards labour, as the actual parts will only costs about $700. Therefore, if you can put them on yourself or know someone else who can do it cheaply, then you may want to go this route. It will save you a good deal of money. Of course, make sure that they know what they are doing or you will be wasting both time and money. You can even purchase suicide door kits for a few hundred dollars overseas.

Suicide doors are a really cool way to trick out a car. You will definitely stand out. It can be costly if you take it to a body shop to get it done but you will want to be sure that they get it right. However, before you invest a great deal of money and time, make sure that adding suicide doors won't cancel out your warranty and that your vehicle will still pass inspection.

Auto Repairs or Today Require Computer Knowledgeable Auto Mechanics

Auto mechanics of the modern era need extensive computer knowledge to be able to perform many types of repairs that automobiles need. In fact, all cars, trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles use computers to operate tasks from precisely spraying fuel into the engine for burning, shifting the automatic transmissions, performing tasks like regulating the air conditioner, alarm systems and even blow out your airbags in case of an auto accident or collision. The most sophisticated models have an even more sophisticated computer system. These computers perform tasks like a stereo sound system accepting USB, MP3, MP4, Bluetooth, satellite radio, DVD players, and multi-disc CD players. Other computers include body computers, electronic parking, electronic parking brake system, anti-lock, traction control, vehicle stability, suspension, headlamp systems, driver warning system, vehicle warning systems and tire pressure monitor systems. All types of computer systems require special diagnostic procedures and may require special equipment to access the fiber optic data connections as well as the other CAN system connections.

Computer diagnostics can be a science on an automobile. Many factors cause trouble codes and diagnostics are limited to the manufacturer's designs and parameters. Some computer systems allow you to access specific data that may need to be checked to accurately diagnose a problem while other diagnoses require using tools like a lab scope, multi-meter or even a 12 volt test light. Some consumers have a misconception that an auto repair shop or auto dealer have equipment that can fully checkout a car or even a computer for a car. As an example, if a tail light wire is broken in the trunk, a super computer machine can tell you the wire is blue and broken 3 inches from the tail light bulb! This is false, computers on a car are very limited to the information they give, therefore, it takes practical skill to properly diagnose this scenario short. Auto mechanics are the key to a successful diagnose and repair.

Is computer reprogramming on a car possible? Yes, in many cases, computer programming and reprogramming is necessary. From programming a steering sensor to setting up your vehicle theft system, computer reprogramming is a must on all types of auto makes. Special aftermarket equipment can be used, in many cases, to program different computer systems. In some cases, the factory scan tools are the only way to reprogram the computer. Some of the software is available to the auto repair shop via internet or DVD. Other software is built into diagnostic scan tools built to have the necessary programming aspects within the tool. Some reprogramming can be easily performed at a hi-tech local auto repair shop, while some reprogramming is limited to the dealer only.

Hybrid cars are very computerized. From starting the car to driving the car, every second is calculated by several computers to maintain the objective of saving gas. These cars use 2 styles of batteries. One battery controls the vehicle including the computer systems, lights and typical automobile functions. The other battery has high voltage that is used to propel the car with electric power. The charging, starting and driving is computer controlled and regulated. Diagnosing and repairing the hybrid cars is far more complex than the typical vehicle. Many computer systems communicating to operate the hybrid models require a computer skilled mechanic to properly diagnose and repair.

Auto diagnostic scan tools are a must for auto repair shops. Everything from warning lamps to oil change/ service resets require automotive diagnostic scan tools. Scan tools can check specific systems and help the auto mechanic with which way to go for the necessary repair. Some vehicles require a scan tool just to change the brake pads! Computer desktops and laptops can me retrofitted to replicate or become the factory scan tool for the specific car. All of the setting up procedures and diagnostic procedures require a computer savvy auto mechanic with high level of skill and patience. With cars becoming more complicated and incorporating operating systems and hard drives, auto mechanics will have to have major computer skills to be able to keep up with the futuristic cars to come.

Budget Car Repair Ideas

Many motorists think that car repair is out of their price range. The economy is forcing many individuals to make hard choices between paying their rent on time, buying nutritious foods and keeping their automobile in tip top shape. Vehicle owners may put off maintenance or repairs until it's far too late. The longer a car owner waits, the worse the problems get. A vehicle is often one of the most valuable assets that an individual or family may own. Not only is the automobile itself valuable; the value of what this reliable mode of transportation actually does is priceless. A sedan, truck or SUV performs hard work for its owner.

It totes the driver and his or her passengers to work, to school, to the doctor, to the grocery store and to social events. Without reliable transportation, it would be much more difficult to travel to employment locations, get to class on time, obtain medical care, buy groceries and visit friends or attend local happenings. And these are just the basics. Neglecting basic maintenance of this asset may turn it into a hunk of metal parked in the driveway or parking space. Think you can't afford its upkeep? Try living without it to watch the money and opportunities drain out of your life. Here are some ideas for maintaining your sedan, truck or SUV on a tight budget:

- Preventative maintenance: Perform preventative maintenance chores on schedule in order to save major repair bills in the long run. Oil changes, tire balancing, and tune ups will keep the engine purring along and the job, school, shopping chores and everything else on track.

- Look for coupons: Many auto repair shops offer money saving coupons to their customers. These may be available at the shop, in the local newspaper or even online. Go to your favorite car repair business' website and look for weekly or monthly specials or sales. Plan your appointments for specific services around the coupon dates.

- Loss leaders: Some companies charge a minuscule amount for certain services such as an oil change in order to gain loyal customers. These are called "loss leaders" because they actually lose money on the deal. You, the customer, will win big. If you end up being won over by their extreme competence, you'll be winning in that regard, as well.

- Change your own oil: An individual with basic mechanical skills can learn how to change their own motor oil. Using a funnel, the proper grade oil, wearing dirty-work attire and donning a set of gloves will be close to getting you to having the job done. Be sure to save a few empty milk jugs to tote the used lubricant to the local auto parts store. Auto parts stores will usually recycle it at no cost to you. This helps you and the planet.

- Auto classes at your local community college: Many community colleges offer classes in basic automotive skills. This is helpful for a motorist who wants to learn to care for basic upkeep on their own car. If an individual is not mechanically inclined, they can offer their car up for practice by other students. This is similar to having a haircut at the local beauty college. The students get to learn and the consumer gets a service performed at a greatly reduced cost.

Don't think you can't afford car repair services. Where there's a will, there's a way.

Auto Repair Shops Gain While Auto Makers Lose

It's true that economic recession has not left any industry untouched. The most badly affected is of course the automotive industry. But despite the increasing industry gloom, there is a wing that has been consistently making profit. Wondering about it? Friends, its the auto repair shops and centers worldwide.

On one hand, when even the major automakers are facing heavy losses and are on the verge of bankruptcy, the auto repair centers are making the optimum utilization of this opportunity to make money. Being cash-strapped, the consumers are unable to buy any new car and this fact has been a boon in disguise. Car owners are taking their old cars to repair shops that in turn is helping repair centers make ample money.

Obviously, its always a wise decision to cling on to the money that you have in economic recession. With a number of job losses every month, one never knows what happens next. Save money. You may also try these fuel saving tips to save money.

Used Cars - Making Great Business

Since, no one has money at present to spend on any new vehicle, people are preferring used cars instead of new ones. Different car owners are getting a fair amount for their old cars. The centers that deal in old cars are cracking great deals for used cars. Inflation in buying of used cars is directly proportional to increase in business of auto repair. People buying used cars are taking their vehicles for repair to these centers. Good, for the repair center owners !! At least someone is gaining in the auto industry amidst this recession.

Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance: Is My Car Going to Make It

Many wonder whether or not there vehicle will make the trip. Provided you follow factory routine auto maintenance schedules, Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance is simple. Here are some Pre Road Trip Car Maintenance tips and suggestions.

Here's what to do:

• Clean your car inside and out--windows too! Cleaning your car is a great way to get to know it. For example, you may notice worn tires or a broken lamp.



• Set tire pressures to factory specifications. Adjust tire pressures according to your owner's manual, especially if you are hauling significant weight.



• Check the fluids, belts and hoses--with most of today's cars, these can be checked quickly with a peek under the hood.



• Test all your wiper blades to ensure they're cleaning well. Replace as needed.



• Check all your exterior lights, including fog lamps as applicable.



• If you're close to your next scheduled vehicle maintenance, get it done.

If you do not know your particular vehicle's maintenance needs, or its service intervals, they're worth learning. It will help to rein-in maintenance suggestions from aggressive service facilities.

Important: your mechanic does not need to know you're taking a trip. Sad as it is, "taking a trip" is often used to take advantage of service customers. Check out 10 Things You JUST NEVER SAY to Your Mechanic at EzineArticles.com or RepairTrust.com for more information.

Import Car Repair - Finding Foreign Car Care Specialists

Drivers love import cars for their unique design and focus on performance. Every day, one sees more and more vehicles from Europe, Asia, and other places around the world on the road. Brands such as BMW and Mercedes Benz are common household names - everyone knows their reputation for luxury and fine engineering. However, people also tend to think that caring for and repairing import cars is very expensive. In fact, when you learn the best ways to care for your car and get regular maintenance from the foreign car experts, taking care of your BMW, Mercedes, Audi, or Jaguar is no more expensive than domestic car service.

Choosing the Right Import Car Mechanic

Most new import car owners tend to have one common problem: finding the right specialist for their vehicle. This problem has been worsened by the growing number of "specialist" companies that claim to provide great service to the vehicle brand while the overall result is the exact opposite. You can find a wide range of foreign car repair shops online, plus compare rates and experience that will help you choose a professional who offers quality service at great rates. You could even check the reputation of the shop on review sites such as Kudzu and Yelp.

Every import car brand has its own recommended car repair center/specialist, be it Mercedes Benz, BMW, etc. To find the dealers and specialists, one simply has to search the internet for dealerships and repair shops located near them. When you go into the dealership for car service, you know you will get quality service, but dealers tend to charge a premium on vehicle maintenance. The best strategy is to search for established repair and performance shops that specialize in import cars. Most specialists offer free online quotes for the specific service you're looking for, so you can compare prices before you go in.

Check the Car Repair Reviews

With a little research online, you should be able to zero in on the most qualified expert help for your car. You can find a wide range of foreign car repair shops on the web, plus compare rates and experience that will help you choose a professional who offers quality service at great rates. You could even check the reputation of the shop on review sites such as Kudzu and Yelp. These online tools are a great resource for honest and reliable import auto repair professionals for your most prized possession.

Find Your Niche Before You Become a Mechanic

Most successful businesspeople know that it takes a niche for a business to truly succeed. Start thinking about your niche now as you begin mechanic school. By the time you finish your auto mechanic course, you should already have a firm plan in place for your future as a businessperson.

We do everything: versatility

Some graduates of mechanic school distinguish themselves from their competitors by servicing a wide range of vehicles, everything from family sedans to lawn mowers or snowmobiles to heavy farm machinery.

This career path is best suited to:

- those who become a mechanic because they just can't stop tinkering with engines of any kind
- those who plan to work in a rural area after completing mechanic school

To increase your chances of this niche succeeding, take the following courses at mechanic school:

- diesel technology

Custom only

If classic hot rods and muscle cars are your thing, why not make a business out of it?

This career path is best suited to:

- people who grew up around older cars

To increase your chances of this niche succeeding:

- complete an apprenticeship with an experienced classic car mechanic (in mechanic school, you will learn how to use today's diagnostic computer tools, but to learn the old ways, you will have to seek out a seasoned professional, who remembers the old days when being a mechanic was mainly a question of mechanical rather than electronic skill).

Race car mechanic

Some schools have a dedicated motor sports auto mechanic course, but that it is not the only way to become a race car mechanic.

To increase your chances of this niche succeeding:

- volunteer at your local race track
- get to know the motorsports community in your area
- after completing a normal auto mechanic course, consider taking an upgrader course in motor sports mechanics

Auto leak repair

Some people who become a mechanic go on to distinguish themselves by specializing in one type of auto repair. For example, some garages specialize in repairing water leaks in vehicles. They gather information on the reported leaks associated with all kinds of vehicles.

Eco-friendly auto repair

Some graduates of mechanic school go on to open garages that bill themselves as eco-friendly, with environmentally responsible policies and procedures concerning waste disposal, energy use and pollution in the garage, as well as in the front office.

To increase your chances of this niche succeeding:

- seek green certification from an independent organization
- keep abreast of developments in clean transportation as you become a mechanic

Don't delay: choose your niche today, so that you can prepare for it as you become a mechanic.

Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts Insurance: 3 Smart Things to Consider Before Buying

Bumper to Bumper car insurance allows you provide comprehensive cover for some car parts that enable your car run safely. Areas of coverage include, engine, transmission, exhaust pipe, brakes, electrical parts and even the drivetrain. The things that are not covered are always outlined in the agreement. They include oil changes, car batteries, spark plugs, tires, windshield wipers, and engine tuning. In addition, bumper to bumper car insurance does not cover body work and items installed in the car after purchase.

A bumper to bumper car insurance coverage does not exactly cover everything that helps your car run. Even though the name suggests otherwise, things that wear out from too much use are not protected. It is up to you to replace these auto parts before it turns your car into a wreck. Here are 3 smart things you should consider before buying bumper to bumper auto parts insurance.

Works with Old Cars

There is no point purchasing this insurance cover immediately, if you bought a brand new car. The car would not be a problem in the first 2 years if you choose not to use it for Hollywood car chasing scenes. It is crucial that you save you cash and wait until the car grows older before you purchase the cover.

Keeps Car Longer

Once you purchase a bumper to bumper insurance policy, you can afford to keep your car for a longer period because it is being looked after for you. These payments will definitely give you a big bang for your buck and squeeze out some vital years from your car before replacing.

Buy When You Want

Against popular opinion, it is not mandatory to buy bumper to bumper insurance when you purchase a vehicle. So if you really want to buy a vehicle, go ahead and do not allow that perk stop you. However, get the insurance cover before your car becomes a mechanical embarrassment to you. You drive a better bargain when your car is in good condition and not a bad one.

A typical bumper to bumper warranty lasts 3 years or 36,000 miles. It has been known to stretch to 10 years and over 50,000 miles. But this is not too common. Besides, you would be bogged down with many restrictions and exclusions which might actually lessen the true value of the insurance cover. Ensure that your bumper to bumper cover comes with frequent maintenance and offers more than one place for your car to undergo repairs. It would be an unpleasant situation, if you show up with your bad car at a repair shop and there is no one in sight to help you out.

Customer Service Case Study - Rent-A-Car Company and High Pressure Up-Selling for Add-On Insurance

Is your company destroying customer service because of in-house sales contests? Many companies have sales contest between their company representatives and employees on the sales floor. It doesn't just happen in retail environment, it also happens in the service sector too. In fact, it's so serious, that if it isn't handled right, you can destroy your brand name, and your company's reputation in a single quarter by attempting to up-sell all your customers into buying things they really don't want, can't afford, and are not interested in. Indeed, I would like to talk to you for a few moments about this if I might.

You see, before retirement I was in the mobile oil change business, and we did okay and it was great to get business from the fixed site locations who had tried to up-sell their female customers into buying and purchasing more services than they needed. Perhaps because they felt as if women didn't know enough about their cars, and were more apt to fall for these high pressure sales tactics. Surely, it worked for them, someone might come in for a $19.99 oil change, and go out spending $175 for all sorts of services that they may or may not have actually needed.

Yes, the auto industry unfortunately has gotten a bad rap because of strategies like this, although those companies who are engaged in that did have a decent run in the market for a few years, but now their brand names have collapsed. Still, some bad habits never die in the business world, and I was recently told by an auto body repair shop owner about how his customers were bullied into buying extra insurance at the local car rental company where he had been sending all of his clients. Now then, listen to this trickery sales tactic for a moment;

"It's going to be really windy this weekend, and it gets quite dusty around here out in the desert, so the sand will be blowing. You need to buy the extra insurance, so I don't charge you or your credit card that you left on file for wind damage from the sandblasting effect which might ruin the paint job of this rent-a-car that I just rented you."

Then the customer would feel obligated to buy the additional insurance for another $10 per day. Since the salesperson at the car rental agency was trying to boost the numbers of that local office, he would be rewarded for up-selling the customer. Of course, this high-pressure tactic also met with resistance from those knowledgeable customers who rent cars all the time, and have never heard of such nonsense. In this case, when they went back to the auto body shop owner who was fixing their car, while they were renting a temporary loaner, they complained, which also made the auto body shop owner look bad for referring them to that particular rent-a-car agency.

Now, he won't refer them anymore clients, so that rent-a-car agency may have made extra money in sales that month, but they won't be getting any more business or referrals from this gentleman ever again. Be careful, customer service matters, and it is not good customer service to gouge your customers, feed them full of BS, or use high-pressure sales tactics. There's really no place for that, certainly not if you want to maintain a strong brand image and solid reputation in the community. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on.

DIY Brake Pad Replacement - How to Change Pads and Avoid Common Mistakes

Doing your own brake job, if done properly can save a lot of money. But if a brake job is done improperly it could very well cost more than if a professional was paid to do the job to begin with. I've done hundreds of brake jobs in the last 25 years as a Master Auto Technician and in this article I'll outline some of the basics. I also point out some common mistakes that beginners and even pros can make when doing a brake job.

Pulsating?

If the car shakes when the brakes are applied, this means that the brake rotors are warped. Excessive side to side run-out causes the car to shake especially when stopping quickly from highway speeds. The rotors can be machined or resurfaced to make them true again as long as they are thick enough. If there is no pulsation or brake shake, brake pads can be replaced without machining them. In my experience though, if machining or replacing the rotors is not done when doing a brake job, most of the time there will be excessive squeaking noises after a very short time. I recommend taking care of the rotors by having them machined or replaced when doing the brake job.

Lifting the Car Safely

Sounds a little too basic doesn't it? I've seen many people under cars without having a jack stand in place for safety. Hydraulic jacks are great, but what if one slips or fails in some way while someones under the car working? I can't emphasize enough the importance of having the car safely raised with a jack stand in place, just in case the car falls for some reason. A jack stand under the car is very important for anytime work is to be done under the car, like for oil changes, starter replacement or any other job that could crush a person if the jack failed. I once worked with a mechanic that was changing his starter at home. His hydraulic jack had a slow leak and before he realized that the car was lowering gradually onto him, he was pinned under the car and couldn't get out from under it. The compressing of his chest only allowed him to take very shallow breaths of air, which limited his ability to cry for help! Luckily a friend stopped by, saw what was happening and raised the car for him. If not for luck this could have had a totally different outcome, his mistake could have cost him his life.

Removing Wheels, Calipers and Rotors

After removing the wheels find the caliper bolts and check to see what type of head the bolts have to determine what tools will be needed. Common fasteners will have either regular bolt heads, allen or torx. Typically there will be two bolts holding the caliper and two bolts holding the caliper bracket. Usually just the caliper can be removed if just replacing the brake pads. Suspend the caliper with an elastic cord or something similar to prevent the weight of the caliper from possibly damaging the brake hose. If the rotor is being removed to be machined or replaced most of the time the caliper bracket will need to be removed as well. Rotors will either just slide off or on older style setups will be held on by the wheel bearings. Most cars today will have rotors that slide off. The wheel bearings on this design are not serviceable, meaning they are lifetime greased and can only be replaced when they fail so they are not repacked with grease during a brake job like in the past.

Pushing the Piston

Pushing the brake caliper piston back in is required to install the new brake pads. The piston slowly extends out as the brake pads wear. This is why no brake adjustment is needed for the disc brake system, it's basically self adjusting. Big channel lock pliers can be used to compress the piston back into the caliper. There are also brake tools that can be used to push the piston back in. A big C-clamp used to be my favorite method for returning the piston back into the caliper. If working on rear disc brakes, a piston wind back tool like the KD 41540 (one of DenLors best sellers) is usually required to push and turn the pistons back in. It is recommended to open the brake bleeder screw when pushing the piston, this allows it to go back in easier and prevents possible damage to the master cylinder and/or ABS (Anti Lock Brakes) pump or valves from forcing old fluid back into the system. Closing the bleeder valve immediately after the caliper piston is pushed back in will insure that bleeding the brakes will not be necessary. If dust boots in the caliper are broken, caliper replacement is necessary. Broken boots will allow moisture and dirt to enter the surrounding area of the piston and will cause it to stick or seize. There are slides on some caliper brackets that can freeze up or seize also that can cause uneven pad wear. The slides should be taken apart and lubricated with silicone gel or disc brake grease. The slides must work freely for the brakes to work properly.

Installing the Brake Pads and Calipers

Take note of any possible differences in left side brake pads and right side brake pads. Also there is sometimes differences in inboard and outboard brake pads. Obviously the friction part of the brake pad goes towards the rotor. My uncle a long time ago, before I ever started working on cars did a brake job on his Cadillac. I remember hearing that he placed the brake pads in backwards! He ruined his brake rotors. It seems like an impossible mistake, but when you're not familiar with what you're doing anything is possible. With aftermarket brake pads, most of the time they will come with their own noise insulators that fit onto the back of the pads. Some will have adhesive backs that will have plastic to peel off before installing, others may have tabs built into them. Note that if these are supplied, the OE (Original Equipment) pad insulators will not be re-used. After the pads are in place, be careful not to TWIST the brake caliper hoses when putting the calipers back on. It's a common mistake to twist them and the hoses can kink on turns.

Pump the Brake Pedal!

After everything is back together, it's time for a test drive. But first pump the brake pedal before putting the car in gear! The pedal will go to the floor and you may be headed for a crash if you don't. When the pedal is pumped the pistons are pushed out and the pedal becomes firm. There was an auto technician that I worked with that forgot to pump the brakes after doing a brake job. He backed out of his service bay, when he hit the the brakes the car kept going and he drove into the car that was half way up on the rack behind him. It broke the rear window of the car he was driving, luckily there was no other damage.

There are many types of brake systems but most disc brakes are basically the same. Following the steps I've listed here should help in replacing your brake pads. But if you are not completely confident, it's always a good idea to ask a friend that has some hands on experience to help guide you through your first brake job.

BMW Salvage Cars at Low Prices at Auto Salvage Auction

Community in today's world depends on means of transportation. It's a fact of life that the majority of individuals cannot exist without transportation and use it to get to work, university or simply running errands. One cannot deny the fact that most persons now are on a tight budget due to economic crisis that recently took place. These men and women are not able to buy a new or even a used car in a good condition. The first possible decision for them is to use a salvage auction yard. These yards usually offer their clients to place bids on damaged vehicles, saving thousands of dollars. Some can even hit upon a new or a repossessed car in good condition. A salvaged auction vehicle is a car that has either suffered an accident, or has some engine difficulty, and was not repaired but sold for cash. Vehicles that are bought at a salvage auction yard will most likely need some kind of repairs, either engine repairs or body repairs. That is why the buyer should be ready to spend his time and check the car he is going to buy beforehand. He also must think over whether he will be able to fix it up or not. The cause the vehicles are at a salvage auction is because the cost of repair as a rule supersedes the vehicle's cost, and the insurance company or the owner, decided to total the vehicle. One more reason for taking up a car at a salvage yard is the reconstruction of a vehicle as a pastime. You may come across many restorable project cars at auto salvage auctions. Different auto parts for vehicles can also be searched for here. So if you look for a bargain car to take up and repair and use as an inexpensive form of transportation or a restorable vehicle for a hobby, these auto salvage auctions will suit perfectly. A salvage auction yard maybe the place for you if you are ready to take up your best BMW.

Every vehicle which is running on the roads finally gets to a salvage yard. It happens that it can suffer numerous damages in an accident. It can sustain important engine or transmission troubles. These vehicles are too expensive to repair, using an auto repair shop. Some less luxurious cars are sold for parts while other higher resale cars are kept intact and sold as a salvage car. BMW is a very trendy and pricey car. Because of this fact, it's very ordinary to see BMW salvage cars in auto salvage yards, ready to be sold or sent to auto salvage auction. BMW owners are typically very devoted to their cars and often choose the same style, make and model of the car. Surely the cost of a new BMW is rather expensive. Still purchasing a repossessed BMW will set you back quite a bit of cash. If your income is not too high, but you still dreaming of a BMW, a BMW salvage car might represent your best and fairly possible the only choice in attaining that aim. Due to the increasing interest and demand for BMWs`, there are many available BMW salvage cars at auto salvage auctions.

Some individuals may be looking for a BMW for their daily car, while others are looking for a salvage to create their project car. The idea is that BMW salvage cars can suit with in both cases. If a person is a fancier of restoration works then BMW salvage cars will go well for that. Several BMW salvage cars might have some smallest damages, but some tiny engine works or body repairs should be made. The only thing left to keep in mind is a person buying a BMW salvage car should have the capacity to repair the car; it would be a mistake otherwise, because the cars are placed at auto salvage auctions due to the cost of repairs.

Virtual Welding in Auto Mechanic Training

Welding is dangerous and expensive. As well as taking costly fuel and working with expensive material, welders who use regular equipment incorrectly can do permanent or temporary vision damage or risk serious burns. However everyone looking to become a mechanic is helped by knowing how to weld and new advances in computer simulations let students get an ever increasingly realistic taste of wielding the torch through virtual reality.

Though it might sound like something out of a science fiction movie, virtual welders use sensory technology and three dimensional graphics to measure the motion and location of a user's torch, and provide visual and sometimes even auditory feedback. Students don a special mask that looks just like the real version, but rather than protective eye shielding, these masks contain a visual display system that provides a unique view for each eye, rather than a single, panning image, showing exactly the sort of things real welders would see. With a replica torch in hand, rather than a joystick or other less accurate control system, the student can move and operate their torch just like a real one, with one crucial difference: no heat or fumes. With modern machines, students undergoing auto mechanic training can learn all standard joints and bends they'd learn in any good welding curriculum.

Because of their relatively perfect simulation, virtual welders also teach students the kinetic, visual special and muscle memory aspect essential in any sort of hands-on skill, not something that even the best classroom instruction or textbook can provide, regardless of how committed a student is in their quest to become a mechanic. Though virtual reality technology is relatively old, until recently, high price points and clunky input systems made this beyond practicality for common use, but, as prices drop, these machines take advantage of decades of military and space agency driven research, but also the advances in gaming technology.

The game like appearance also makes these tools easy to start with for a more nervous novice. This makes them great recruiting tools for a mechanic school, letting them not only showcase that they're on the cutting edge of training technology, but also allowing prospective students try out what the job is like. This is especially important in attracting younger workers to the trade because today's technologically minded youth are less attracted to traditional vocational careers. The system will also record student accuracy, giving them a performance score, good for grading in a mechanic school, but also encouraging students to compete with each other to improve their abilities, taking advantage of the interests of a generation that grew up taking computers and game consoles for granted.

Of course virtual welders are not a perfect substitution for the real thing, but the feedback system, safety and scoring also let instructor determine when a student can be safely cleared to move over to real welding. Money is saved, accidents are avoided and students have fun with their auto mechanic training.

Auto Repair Shop - It is Very Important to Make the Right Choice

It is very important to choose the right auto repair shop for your car. Your investment can go to waste and end up placing a huge burden on your pocket if you do not make the right choice.

Given below are some strategies that you can adopt to ensure you select the right vehicle repair shop every time your car needs to be repaired. You will be surprised to find how some common practices actually work to your detriment.

- Obsession with a single fix it shop

Experienced mechanics will tell you that a car must be treated like a living being. Just as we like consistency, dealing only with a particular mechanic or repair shop is good for the car.

There is no denying the logic underlying the statement. However, one should not blindly opt for the same auto repair shop no matter what happens. Would you visit a heart surgeon for a broken leg?

In the same way, do consider the specialty of the shop under consideration before entrusting your car to a particular shop. You have to carefully and impartially analyze the capabilities of the shop before taking a decision.

- A fancy workshop does not a good auto shop make (old English... )

Do not attach too much importance to the glitzy setup of the shop. A fully air conditioned one is of no use to you as it does not make any difference to the performance of the car.

Use of fancy flooring material in the workshop should not form the basis of your choice. You should focus on the quality of workmanship in the auto shop instead.

When Can You Have A Chip In Your Windshield Repaired?

When you hear that dreaded sound of a rock hitting your windshield, you are startled and then upset. Just because some states have laws where people hauling debris have to cover the debris in their truck does not mean the laws prevent rocks from flying all over the highway. Imagine how many rocks there are on the road and then think about how much you drive on a daily basis. You might actually be lucky that this is the first time you have had to deal with a chip in your windshield when you consider the odds. Just because you have a chip in your windshield does not mean you have to pay for a full replacement. Learn when a small chip can be repaired and do not spend a small fortune on new windshields when your old windshield is perfectly fine.

When Is a Chip Just a Chip?

When you call an auto windshield replacement company and you tell the technician that you have a chip they might ask you if the chip is just a chip. If you are not a windshields replacement specialist you may not know what a chip is defined as in the industry. Most glass companies have a general rule that a chip is any imperfection in the glass that is the size of a quarter or smaller. If you put a quarter over the chip you can get an idea of whether or not your windshield will qualify for repair.

When Will You Need to Replace Your Windshield?

If the chip is larger than a quarter, you may need to have the entire windshield replaced. In some cases, chips that are smaller than a quarter may not qualify for repair. If there are small cracks starting to spider out from the small chip, it might be too late for a repair. This is why it is important to have the chip looked at as soon as you notice it. If you continue to drive with a chipped windshield, you may end up driving over a bump and cause further damage.

How Much Will You Have to Pay For Chip Repair?

Now that you understand when you can and cannot have a chip repaired, you might be wondering just how much repair will cost you. Each glass company charges different rates for chip repair. They also use different prices based on the materials they use for repair. If you have comprehensive insurance, most insurers will pay for the chip repair for you to prevent you needing a new windshield later down the line. Call your insurer and see if they have a chip repair program.

You should never drive with chips or cracks in your windshield. Not only is it illegal, it is also not safe at all and can hinder your vision while you are driving. Call around to see what type of materials are used and how long the repairs will last and then schedule your appointment to get the job done.

Top Misconceptions About Windshield Replacement And Repair

Windshield replacement is a common problem. Many hazards can cause glass damage, but most people fail to understand the importance of fixing small scratches quickly. A reputable glass company should be selected to make auto glass repairs. Windshields are automotive safety devices, protecting passengers from many dangers. When auto glass or windshields are damaged, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass should be used that matches the automakers' specifications.

Auto glass repair can arrest damage such as small dings and scratches. DIY kits are practically worthless, because do-it-yourselfers do not have the experience of analyzing thousands of imperfections like auto glass technicians. Home repair kits have inferior-quality resins that do not prevent cracks from spreading. An experienced glass installer can make a simple repair in a few minutes; home repairs can take hours. Most people do not have vacuum pumps and miniature drills available either. Drills open up the cracked area to allow high-quality resin to penetrate the crack. Vacuums suck out the air so the resin can reach all areas of the crack. Glass technicians know how much pressure to apply without risking breaking windshields or auto glass. Price quotes for simple repairs are very reasonable, often costing a little as $20. Damage is arrested, and car owners can avoid windshield replacement. Even complex repairs seldom cost more than $100.

People have many misconceptions about insurance and windshield replacement. The top false impression people have is that filing an insurance claim for auto glass will cause premiums to rise. Glass damage can easily occur due to circumstances beyond an operator's control. Unless the driver is proven negligent or at fault, auto glass claims do not affect insurance premiums, no matter how often the claims are made. Insurance companies may limit the dollar amount of claims in a year, or deductibles may apply. Some states do not allow deductibles for relatively inexpensive glass repair, so insurance companies must pay the entire installation cost. Insurance companies may recommend a glass company to perform repairs, but consumers can choose any company they prefer in most states. Price quotes are less important than a reputation for quality glasswork.

People hate insurance paperwork, but often a professional glass company will handle all the details for filing an auto glass claim. One glass company touched off a scandal by offering steaks to customers with insurance. Some aggressive glass companies offer to pay the deductible for windshield replacement. In general, consumers should avoid these types of offers because they indicate a degree of desperation reminiscent of ambulance-chasing lawyers. Choose a professional company that gives competitive price quotes and emphasizes service.

Auto glass safety has been a concern for many years. Safety glass for windshields is tempered, making it is shatterproof-it breaks into tiny pieces if enough pressure is brought to bear. Passengers are protected from being cut by shards of glass in an accident. Glass may be tinted for ultraviolet protection, but the main safety function of glass is to protect passengers from wind, weather and road debris, which can be dangerous. Sometimes small rocks cause windshields to crack. Imagine if these rocks hit a person in the head at 70 miles an hour. Prompt repair can keep auto glass damage from spreading, requiring windshield replacement. Windshields also help support the car roof, and provide support for airbags in an accident.

A glass company, like any other business, can be reputable or shady. Choose auto glass repair or windshield replacement from a professional company that uses the highest quality OEM glass. Price quotes should be reasonable and not change depending on whether the driver has insurance coverage. If a glass installer offers to do a driver's laundry or buy dinner, then exercise some healthy skepticism.

Auto Paint How To - A Basic Guide

Whether you are just interested in re-spraying a small area to cover up some paint chips, or want to treat your car to a custom paint job that will let you enjoy envious stares from every pedestrian you pass, you will need to follow a few basic rules, and have the right tools to hand in order to carry out the work to a high standard.

The first thing to mention about auto paint jobs is that you should always work in a well ventilated area. Paint fumes can include a number of solvents that can leave you feeling light headed and even poison you if you inhale them, so make sure there is free passage of air through your work shop when you are painting. You should also wear a respirator mask during painting or preparation to avoid inhaling any paint and loose dust that you release.

To get the best effects when painting, you also need to make sure that you are able to keep dust to a minimum. You can achieve a good environment by hanging sheets from floor to ceiling in the area where you are working, and wearing overalls. You should also vacuum clean the area where you are painting at the beginning of every session.

When you apply auto body paint, the main thing is to get a good even finish that looks good, and the key to getting a good finish is having a good start. Preparation is everything in paining. Get it right, and you will be able to enjoy a fantastic smooth finish that will last for years and look great, skimp on your preparation, and your finish will look shabby straight away, and then get worse over time.

Before you paint, you need to strip off the old paint job. You can do this with a solvent based paint remover, or do it the hard way by sanding back the panels to bare metal using a sander. Whichever method you choose, you need to make sure that you have a very smooth base. To achieve this, use the finest grade abrasive paper available, and be prepared to put serious time into the job.

Once you are satisfied with your base, you can start applying the primer. Use a HLVP spray gun connected to an air compressor, as this is much more even than an aerosol, and will be much cheaper in the long run. You should use long sweeping strokes in a single direction to get a good base to paint onto. After every coat, allow the paint to dry, and then sand it back to a smooth surface. Then apply the next coat in strokes that go at 90 degrees to the previous layer, as this will produce an even color.

There are two types of auto paint that you can use on a car, cellulose based and Two Pack auto paint. Most painters now use Two Pack because it gives a better finish, and metallic colors are available, whereas cellulose paint can be tricky to deal with, and is best used on classic cars where you are trying to recapture an older style.

As with the primer, you should apply the auto paint in coats, spraying in a single direction, then sanding back to a fine surface to remove any imperfections, before applying the next layer at right angles to the previous one.

In between coats, it is imperative to clean the nozzles on your HVLP spray gun, as otherwise, small flakes of dried paint can be caught up in the spray and cause imperfections that will spoil the final effect.

Once you are satisfied that you have got a good covering and applied enough coats of auto body paint to create an excellent finish, apply one more coat for best effects, allow it to dry, and then sand back for a smooth finish. You should leave the paint to dry completely for 24 hours and then apply a wax polish to the whole body in order to protect your new paint job and give it a shine that will certainly catch the attention of anyone you pass on the road.

Choose Auto Locksmiths, or Use Your Auto Mechanic?

Once in a while, all car owners face some unexpected trouble with their cars. Typically, handy people among us will try to fix the problem on our own. Others will look for an auto mechanic's garage in the neighbourhood to get it fixed. Those of us who are really well off might go to the car dealership and get the problem fixed in an expensive manner. But what if our car is having a problem with its key or lock? What is the best option for us? Do we call the auto locksmith or do we go to the car dealership?

As far as cost of the work is concerned, the auto dealership will charge you a very high amount, compared to the auto locksmith. As auto locksmiths are known to provide emergency services by going to the location of the customer, you can ask them to come to your location. When you are in a hurry to go somewhere, this can be a very important aspect of the deal.

In the case that you want to get it repaired at the car dealership, you will have to tow your car to their location and pay for the towing expenses. When it comes to the quality of the work, an auto locksmith will provide a much better job than a car dealership. As he works on only one category of service, namely locks, he will have a thorough understanding of the various types of locks available in the market. A mechanic at a car dealership will have a basic idea about locks and keys along with everything else related to the car. But, as far as the expertise on keys and locks is concerned, the auto locksmith will be way ahead of the car mechanic.

If you lose laser-cut car keys, auto locksmiths are your best bet to get a duplicate in a short time. Of course, not all of them have the equipment to duplicate these keys. Only some auto locksmiths have this expensive machinery in their possession. On the other hand, no car dealerships have this equipment in their possession. Typically, they send your keys out to others who have the equipment and get the key duplicated for you within a week or so. When you are in a hurry to get a new set of keys, the auto dealership will not work for you.

Choosing A Legitimate Mobile Auto Repair Shop

Hiring a mobile auto repair service can have some great advantages. You are able to sit in your home and watch television and be comfortable while your vehicle is under repair. Also many services will come to your place of work when possible allowing you to continue your busy and hectic schedule. They can also help save you money because they will allow you to buy your own parts avoiding a large and ridiculous parts mark up. In addition many of them are family owned and operated therefore able to save you more money. Unlike dealerships and chain businesses, mobile auto repair services tend to have less overhead and are able to pass those savings on to you the consumer.

The biggest issue with mobile auto repair services however is finding a legitimate and reliable business that also has experience.

Although avoiding fraudulent services is a complicated process, if you follow these few tricks you can avoid being taken advantaged of.

Asking your mechanic about their experience is not a bad idea. A good mechanic will be able you give you a few references and the amount of years they have been in the industry. The amount of years does not always represent how good of a mechanic they are. You may even go as far as asking for references and their earlier places of work.

As any brick and mortar mechanic service, mobile auto repair services must licensing through your states department of motor vehicles. In many states legitimate auto repair services are on your Department Of Motor Vehicles website. In addition posting the license in a place where the customer can see it is required. So don't forget the check for the license hanging in your view of the shop.

All mechanic services must fill out and have a signed invoice before services are begun. This invoice not only gives the company permission to work on your vehicle but it also ensures their payment as well as ensuring you receive the services promised.

No legitimate mechanic should ever ask for payment before they complete the service. You should never offer to pay up front because once again the invoice ensures your payment. Request of prepayment can generally be recognized as a sign the service is not a legitimate business.

If you follow these simple tricks in the process of finding a legitimate mobile auto repair service you will find them to be time and money-efficient.

Questions to Ask When Looking For an Auto Repair Shop

Finding a reliable car repair shop can be difficult. So many auto repair shops these days cut corners when it comes to service and qualifications. Here are some questions you should ask any shop you are considering using.

1. Do they have "trained" technicians?

Always look for a Denver car repair shop that has service personnel who have previously worked at dealerships or dealer repair shops. Make sure the shop has a core staff of experienced people who have been doing car repair for at least 15 years.

2. Is it important that the technicians have formal certificates showing their qualifications?

Yes formal training and certification is important because this is the best way to learn about the most current technologies used in vehicles. Always look for certificates displayed in their service area along with A.S.E. (Automotive Service Excellence) awards. In Colorado it is also important to have IM240 Clean Air Colorado certificates for repairs on emission systems.

3. Will using this repair shop void your factory or extended warranties?

All vehicle manufacturers require you to have regular maintenance done according to a specific schedule. They do not specify that this work must be done by a dealer. Using a qualified and licensed repair shop is just as good for warranty purposes. Most full service auto repair shops can do regular maintenance work without having an effect on your warranty.

4. Does this shop require you to make an appointment?

The simple fact is a good car repair shop is busy, so having to set appointments is normal. This actually increases your chances of getting your car back the same day. Many shops will make an exception for emergency work.

5. Does this shop let you book a service appointment online?

As time goes by booking online is becoming more and more common. Online booking gives you the ability to book an appointment at any time of the day or night, without having to talk to anyone. This is convenient both for you and for the repair shop.

6. Can they arrange for transportation?

One of the most inconvenient aspects of having your vehicle serviced is getting it to the repair shop and picking it up when it is finished. Many customer-oriented shops will provide a shuttle service that will take you to your home or office, and pick you up when your vehicle is ready to go.

7. Will this repair shop do a free inspection of your vehicle before you are committed to leaving your vehicle for repairs?

In many similar businesses the idea of the "free inspection" or "free consultation" is becoming popular. Many lawyers, for example, will offer a free consultation if you have a legal problem. This practice is not very common in the auto repair business, but there are shops that make it available. In fact the same Denver auto repair shop that will sometimes provide a free rental car will also provide a preliminary inspection of your vehicle at no charge.

Can I Use Stop Leak For My Vehicle's AC System?

When most people hear the words "air conditioning problems", it sends a shiver up their spine. That is because the air conditioning system is fairly complex. It has a lot of parts and when it is broken, it is expensive to repair.

The most common cause of air conditioning failure is leaks. When the Freon or refrigerant, the stuff that makes the air cold, leaks out, it reduces the efficiency of the system, making the compressor work harder to cool the air. Then there is the all important oil that lubricates and keeps the compressor from failing which is carried by the refrigerant. So you can see how important it is to keep your A/C properly filled with refrigerant to move the oil that protects the compressor.

When the cold air your vehicle puts out starts dwindling, you may be tempted to "try" a cheap, quick-fix like a leak sealing product. Sometimes this works-for a while. Sometimes it does not. I will explain...

Problem #1: There are two types of sealants available. And they each work differently. So for starters you will need to identify exactly the type of leak you have, and then purchase the right sealant for the job. Then you would probably stand a chance of stopping or slowing down the leak. However, more often it will end up costing you more money later on.

Problem #2: We have encountered systems with un-repairable restrictions and damaged compressors due to these sealants. Some systems sustained damage within a week of use!

The good news-these stop leak products are fairly inexpensive.

The bad news-most vehicles with sealant installed will require replacement of all the A/C components to do the job right with a warranty. This is because there is not an approved flushing solvent (at this time) that will remove hardened sealant. And A/C compressor builders and suppliers are scrutinizing returned compressors and may not warranty one if there is sealer in it, just as they have refused when they find evidence of unapproved refrigerants, oils, or flush chemicals present.

Most auto repair shops will not use their expensive A/C machines to recover and recharge your A/C if your system tests positive for an A/C sealant. They are reluctant to service a system with sealant because their machine WILL be damaged by these materials. So if you cannot afford to replace all of the refrigerant carrying parts in your A/C system, then we do not recommend using any sealant products.

What things can I do to prevent an air conditioning breakdown?

First you should run the air conditioner regularly, even during the winter, so that it lubricates itself and keeps the seals from drying out, which leads to leaks. Your owner's manual will have recommendations for how often to operate your air conditioner. Of course, if it is not working right, now is the time to get it checked.

Then have your air conditioning system serviced by your repair shop every other year to help it keep its cool. A quick inspection and sometimes adding a little refrigerant can help you avoid having to bring your air conditioner in for major repairs. It will pay for itself in the long run. So, if your A/C is just a lot of hot air, take it to an automotive service center for an inspection.

10 Non-Traditional Careers for Women: Become a Mechanic and More

According to a recent study by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Canada has a very high pay gap between men and women. In a study of 30 OECD member countries, only Korea, Japan and Germany fared worse than Canada, where men were found to make an average of 20% more than their female counterparts. Ouch! No wonder some ambitious young women are turning to auto training schools in search of non-traditional occupations. Here are 10 non-traditional careers for women to consider.

1. Become a mechanic.

As cars increase their electronic component, the culture of auto maintenance and repair is changing. To become a mechanic today, you must be as good with computers as you are with your hands. To learn the trade, aspiring mechanics enroll in auto training schools equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Because the average person no longer has the necessary knowledge or tools to fix their own car, we are, as a population, becoming increasingly dependent on the graduates of these auto training schools, making the future look very bright indeed for those who choose to become a mechanic today.

2. Become a quality control inspector.

In an assembly plant, a quality control inspector checks automotive parts for defects.

3. Become a CAD Operator.

CAD is short for computer-aided design. CAD operators are car designers.

4. Become a car salesperson.

Although women make less on average then men, they also tend to shoulder more responsibility for the purchasing decisions within a household. For a car dealership, it can be advantageous to have women graduates of auto training schools on its retail staff to convey respect, concern and solidarity to these all-important decision-makers.

5. Become a parts specialist.

Auto training schools can train parts specialists to help people find replacement parts for vehicles.

6. Become a truck driver manager.

Auto training schools can prepare you for a management career in the trucking industry.
Learn how to:

• issue jobs to drivers


• oversee time sheets


• plan loads, pickups and deliveries


• schedule inspections


• use logistics tools on the computer

7. Become a dispatcher.

Take dispatcher training at one of your local auto training schools. Dispatchers are "communications central" for trucking companies. They are responsible for coordinating the movements of the fleet.

8. Become a loss prevention administrator.

Loss prevention involves:

• making sure drivers receive required safety training


• initiating and overseeing safety policies

9. Become an operations manager.

Auto training schools have programs for prospective operations managers, where they can learn how to manage a garage or trucking business.

10. Become a log book auditor.

Trucking companies are required by law to maintain log books. Log book auditors perform voluntary or involuntary checks.

Women who are interested in a non-traditional career in the automotive industry have a wide range of exciting careers to choose from at auto training schools.

Strengthen Your Vehicle's Spirit With Auto Glass Services

Auto glass repair or replacement services can be obtained from professional service providers. They come with skilled and govt.-certified automotive technicians, state-of-the-art technology based tools and equipment to make repair or replacement successful.

With the help of this informative article, you'll come to know about some of the useful facts concerned with auto glass repair, and other auto glass services inclusive of interior shampoo & cleaning, windshield wiper replacement, auto mirror replacement, window tinting, and rock chip repairs, etc. Check-out the below mentioned points to get yourself well-acquainted with this crucial subject.

Advancement of windshields

If we talk about windshields, they were not always considered as a safety feature on automobiles. Earlier, these were made of single pane window glass due to which they shattered easily and caused serious accidents or health hazards. But, the situation has changed now. In the present times, the windshields are considered among major safety features or parts of vehicles. They are made of two layers of tempered glass with one layer of plastic in between to support the robustness and dynamism.

Auto Glass Repair & Replacement

Today, due to the result of cut-throat competition among automobile companies, they are manufacturing a wide range of vehicles depending on their models and designs with different windshield types and sizes. And a minute damage or crack to these brittle windshields requires certain course of action.

With the advent of ground-breaking windshield technology, the task of glass repair and replacement has become easy and less time consuming. For instance, automotive technicians make effective use of high-intensity resin epoxy to repair cracks or any rock chips without any inconvenience. After repairing the damaged area with epoxy, it is pragmatically not possible to detect the pre-damaged area.

As far as replacement of windshield is concerned, it takes around 24-hours for complete replacement of broken windshield. Special adhesives are used for the replacement and drying take is dependent on the models and makes of automobiles. One is required to check for quality materials and processes involved in windshield repair or replacement tasks.

What are you waiting for?

Before your broken windshield cause any harm to you and your beloved ones, it's time you should think to avail auto glass services of a reputed and ICBC approved auto glass shop. Don't compromise on quality and call a trusted name in the automobile industry to get the best results.

windshield repair and replacement service center that caters to the diverse needs of individuals who face hurdles pertaining to their auto windshield and provides auto glass services.

MIG Welding for Auto Body Restoration 101

So here is the deal! You have a car and it needs new metal put in. Yeah, you could go with body filler, but what about parts like the chassis? If you have a MIG welder it can help you do all metal joining repairs. Some people like to gas weld or even stick weld, but the main problem with those welding processes is distortion! MIG is clean, fast, and works great with the thin metals that are used on cars, plus it is what most body shops use! The down side is you need to buy, rent or borrow one of these machines. For a few hundred dollars you can easily find one for sale, and in the worst case you can pick up a real nice pre-owned machine!

MIG welding on cars is pretty easy. All you need is the machine and the filler wire. When it comes to filler wire there are two ways to go. Solid wire or a self shielding wire. There are pros and cons to both choices. The solid wire makes a cleaner weld, but that also means you need to get a bottle of CO2. The self shielding wire does not need any gas, but the welds need to be cleaned more after they are finished. Either way, it beats using body filler to patch up holes!

Set up of the machine depends upon the metal you are welding and it's thickness. It is recommended that you first select a piece of scrap metal that is the same thickness and type of metal as the one you will be welding and practice welding on the scrap.? Set the machine so that when it is welding it has a fast crackling sound to it. Once you've got it down, it's time to prepare your car's metal.

Prep work for metal repairs on cars requires cleaning the joint so that only clean steel is showing. This is not just for cars but MIG welding in general. You want everything fit up as tight as possible so that there are no gaps. Another thing to look out for before getting started is anything flammable in your work area. The last thing you want to do is set your garage on fire!

Now you are ready to weld. When welding thin metals, the only technique employed is that of a whipping motion.? Simply point the MIG gun and pull the trigger as you wave it back and forth until you fuse the edges of the joint together.? Once you're finished with the welds, grind down the welds until they are flush with your vehicle's surface. Those are the basics of MIG welding for your car restoration needs! Safe welding!

Tips for Finding a Good Auto Repair Shop

The economy, did you hear? It is not so good these days. That is all we hear about on the news anymore. Personally, I keep my television set tuned to the Discovery or History channel when I watch TV and stay away from the popular news channels. I know my 401K has been losing ground, I can see it in my quarterly report and I do not have to be reminded of it every 30 seconds. It seems "news only" channels thrive entirely on bad news. Scaring the dickens out of us gets them the best ratings. At any rate, I will keep funding my retirement account every other week. After all, stocks are on sale these days and history shows that eventually the market will recover.

In the past many of you may have traded in your vehicle every three years or so. Modern vehicles today experience very few problems in the first three years. Should a problem arise, warranty coverage would most likely be in effect. Going to the dealer for service may have been routine and somewhat affordable. Many dealers offer lifetime oil changes when you purchase a new vehicle or even a used one. This is a great deal as long as you can resist the up-sell for other services that they will charge up to triple the fair rate.

Due to the current economic times, this may be the year to keep your car instead of trading it in on a new one. At this point, you have two choices, keep taking your car to the dealer for service and pay three times the labor and parts cost of an independent repair shop, or find one of those independent shops to work on your car when repairs and maintenance are necessary.

Finding a reputable repair shop may be a little bit of trial and error. Word of mouth may be the best way to start. Ask your friends, co-workers or relatives what automotive shop they use to work on their vehicle. Also, ask if they had to go back to the shop repeatedly for the same problem at any time. Do not wait until you break down on the side of the road to start your search for the right mechanic. When you do get a recommendation from someone, go there to get an oil change. Why oil change? Well, if they cannot get that right you will not want them doing anything major on your car. Unbelievably, in my search for the right shop three out of four shops overfilled the engine with oil by as much as two quarts. That is almost as bad as driving with to little oil in the engine.

Once you get a recommendation, if possible stop in to make an appointment. This way you can look around a little. The shop bays should be somewhat clean and uncluttered. Look to see how the employees are working, if one of them is sitting on a chair scratching his belly while the other is cussing and throwing wrenches around, it may be a sign to check out another place. If all looks good, go inside to make the appointment. The owner or service writer should greet you in a reasonable amount of time. They should be pleasant and really listen to what you want them to do. If he acts as if they are doing you, a favor or you just ruined his whole day by showing up, leave. Do not be scared, you are not committed to them at all and your car still runs, and that is why you start your search with routine maintenance. Lastly, listen to your gut! You know that feeling, that uncomfortable feeling, that you are about to be taken for every penny you can muster. If you get that gut feeling, walk away.

Remember, this may cost more than the 18.95 you see advertised in the paper and other places. That price is just to get you in the door with the hopes of an up-sell later. No one makes a profit at 18.95. They probably lose money. But with one spark plug and wire change at the dealer at say 400.00 to 600.00, that makes up for a lot of oil changes! When your car is finished, as soon as possible check your oil. It should be at the full mark on the dipstick and the oil should be a golden clear color. If the oil is over or under the full mark by more than a 1/8 inch call them back and let them know. If they are rude, or get aggravated, start your search for another shop. If they are apologetic and offer to make it right, let them. Hey, stuff happens. Give them another shot next time.

Always check a shops work. Become familiar with what your car looks like under the hood. More times than not I have had work done and had to put many things back together myself. Even at the dealer! The shop I currently use, I asked the owner if he had any good mechanics. He was honest and said he has two good ones and the other two were not so good. I said ok, so only the good ones will work on my car, right? He said that is right. I told him I really do not like putting my car back together after a repair job. He personally checks the work out before I pick my vehicles up. Because he knows, I certainly will!

When you do find a good shop, hang on for dear life. Good mechanics and shops are hard to come by these days. Good mechanics seem to have a sixth sense when it comes to diagnosing problems with new vehicles. Especially with those pesky check engine lights. Sometimes it may take several trips to find exactly what the true cause is even with the most sophisticated diagnostic equipment available today.

I hope this article will help you save a few bucks by finding a good independent repair shop rather than going to the dealer and paying overly inflated labor and parts cost.

All You Need To Know About Computer Repair Services

Computer is an essential part of our lives; almost everyone has a PC at home and most students and professionals even have a laptop to carry with them to perform day to day tasks while on the go. There has been a significant increase in the use of computers over the years. The only reason of this growth is the improved technology which provides us higher processing speed. The advancement in the development of application software programs also enabled us to perform any kind of simple or complex task in a quick time.

The computers are prone to get infected by viruses, spyware, Trojans or they can become out of order at any time due to reasons like power fluctuation, dust and abnormal shutdown. Computer is such an essential commodity today that our life is meaningless without it. We all are not computer professionals so most of the times we need computer technicians to repair our PC or laptop. If you are one of those living in Phoenix, you are lucky to have plenty of options to get your computer repaired.

Phoenix is the most populated and the biggest city of the U.S. state of Arizona and it provides all the modern amenities of life a person would demand. If we talk about repair services in Phoenix, there are number of repair shops, repair companies, technicians and third party service providers who are ready to help you out if your computer has crashed.

Phoenix computer repair service providers offer not only repair services but they also provide you all necessary services which are essential to make your computer work excellently. Some of standard services include virus removal and protections, data backup, computer upgrades, internet setup, spyware removal and protection, new computer setup, software installation, troubleshooting and diagnosis, computer & software tutoring, custom built servers, computer maintenance and many more. More advanced services include remote computing, data transfer, virtual private network solutions, LAN/WAN setup, emergency data recovery, network security and firewall, onsite networking, wireless network setup, network email setup and free consultation regarding your computer and network needs.

With many Phoenix computer repair service providers offering similar kind of services, it is always a strenuous task to find the best out of them. Probably, the most suitable repair company or technician would be the one who has plenty of experience in handling repair tasks. The technician must be highly skilled and should have complete knowledge of repairing Windows and Linux based systems. The price is another factor which you should keep in mind while selecting any technician or computer repair company in Phoenix.

We all love convenience and support, whenever we are in a difficult situation. The best service provider or technician would be the one who is available online to answer your queries. Many service providers also offer onsite services, so you do not have to leave your home to get your computer fixed.

Phoenix computer repair shops, companies and technicians can be found online. Just query the search engine and you will find a list of computer repair service providers in Phoenix. One another great way to find them is to consult computer repair directories which list down all the service providers. You can search a service provider by giving name of your city and zip code.

Major Auto Repair to Your Car Can Be Prevented

Want to avoid major auto repair bills? Of course you do! No one wants to spend money on fixing problems that could have been avoided. Most people are on strict enough budgets without throwing in some gigantic automotive breakdown. If you follow some preventative steps, you can keep repairs down to a bare minimum. All it takes is some planning ahead, some common sense, some follow through, and a good mechanic or technician.

Planning Ahead

In every owner's manual, there will be a maintenance schedule. This document will list when to rotate the tires, when to change the oil, when to perform tune-ups, and when to change the timing belt. If you want your sedan, SUV, or truck to take you where you want to go when you put the key in the ignition, plan for these maintenance items. If you don't plan ahead by scheduling maintenance, you will be paying much bigger auto repair bills for problems down the road.

Some Common Sense

You have five senses and you need to remember to use them. That's what good common sense is! When you hear strange sounds every time you shift gears, take it into the shop. If you smell or see smoke coming from under the hood, get your technician on speed dial. If the steering wheel feels like it's stuck or you're starting to taste fear because your brakes won't stop, get your vehicle into the garage before something worse happens.

Follow Through

You know you shouldn't park so close to the SUV full of child seats but you're in a rush and don't follow through on your hunch. When you come back, the SUV is gone and there are dents and dings in your door. Now you're going to have to get auto repair performed to fix the body! When parents strap their kids into child seats, they must open the doors quite wide. The mom or dad probably bumped your car without even realizing it. You knew you should have parked elsewhere but you lacked the follow through.

Good Mechanic or Technician

A skilled repairperson is worth his or her weight in gold. When you have a tech you can trust, you know you will get great advice before you ever need auto repair. If you don't have a mechanic on speed dial, time to start looking for a good one to develop a relationship with before something goes sour with your automobile. When you form a business partnership with a garage, it's almost like having a family doctor. You take your car there for checkups, preventive care, and treatments, just like you would one of your children. You'd never take your son or daughter to an MD without trusting them and having a relationship with them first, and you should treat your vehicle with the same respect.

If you want to avoid the high cost of unexpected auto repair, you can take some preventative steps to avoid it. All it takes is a bit of planning ahead, using common sense, following through, and establishing a solid relationship with a trustworthy mechanic or technician. Your car and your wallet are worth it.

What Type Of Car Warranty Is Best For You?

Because a vehicle purchase is such a major investment, many individuals opt for an extended car warranty as a peace of mind insurance coverage. Extended auto warranties can be purchased during the vehicle buying process or you can purchase one independently of the auto dealer. Keep in mind that auto warranties offer coverage for a certain number of years or a certain number of miles, whichever comes first. Many new car purchases come with a bumper to bumper warranty, though be advised that the bumpers are not covered. This type of coverage is the most comprehensive and typically is made part of a new car purchase.

The type of warranty you purchase will be predicated on whether you are buying a brand new vehicle or a new-to-you vehicle. Prices and coverage options vary depending on the year, make and model of the car, particularly when it comes to extended car warranties. Also, when you are buying a used car ask if there is any coverage left on the original warranty as sometimes these warranties follow the vehicle, not the current owner.

Bumper to bumper coverage is usually offered with a new car but keep in mind that even with the name, bumper-to-bumper, there are items that will be excluded. You will need to read the fine print so you are not taken by surprise in the event you need a repair on the car. Typically these car warranties will cover up to 50,000 miles but you may be able to purchase an additional number above what is originally offered.

An inclusionary or stated-component coverage warranty is just what the name implies, a policy that specifically lists what is covered and what is excluded. An inclusionary policy may cover major vehicle component repairs. With these policies you may also be able to buy add on coverage. A stated component warranty is usually purchased by an individual who buys a car that has between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.

Powertrain warranties cover equipment included the engine, drive axle and drive shaft as well as the transmission - the powertrain systems of the car. As with the other warranties, there may be other options you can purchase to go along with this coverage and you will want to read the fine print to see what is or might be excluded.

Auto warranties are typically considered a wise investment, but if you are looking to buy additionally coverage, be sure to do so soon after you buy the car. An extended car warranty will help cover repairs for as long as pay for, but prices go up on these warranties the longer you wait to buy.

Choosing Which Type of Aircraft Mechanic You Will Become

It is imperative that you understand your career choices before entering any program of study. For example, a decision must be made whether math majors want to instruct, work for NASA, or become bookkeepers. Someone expecting to become an aircraft mechanic should also be well educated about planes and what licenses are in high demand. It is more difficult to become an aircraft mechanic than an auto mechanic, so pay attention to the following information on the business of aircraft mechanics.

A mechanic who is FAA certified can select either a power plant rating or an airframe rating. An airframe rating is determined by all parts of the body and structure of the plane. A power plant rating is part of the engine specification of aircraft. You must complete 18 months of hands-on plane maintenance to even be able to apply to take the tests if you want one of these certifications. You must either have the signature of the supervising mechanic or a notarized statement from your employer to confirm the time worked. Maintenance work can only be performed after you complete a certified program of study or aircraft maintenance school.

If you want both certificates, you can opt to take a different test after working for thirty months. You will be elevated the the level of A&P mechanic, qualified to work on the entire airplane with the exception of the instrument panel (aka avionics). It is quite common among mechanics to obtain both certificates, and most of them hold A&P certificates.

Avionics repair is a highly specialized field which is worth all of the hard work. Avionics concentrates on the electronic systems and instruments of the airplane and, ironically, many aircraft mechanics have not trained in this area. The focus of avionics technicians is on a plane's electronics and instrumentation, areas in which most aircraft mechanics are not trained. More licenses are needed for these duties.

The aviation industry, including general aviation, is heading more towards avionics, and industry experts forecast that this will be reflected in the job market for years to come. If a perspective employer sees on your résumé that you are trained in both aviation mechanics and avionics, you can rest assured your name will be at the top of the list of people he will hire because he will be getting two technicians for the price of one. Avionics oftentimes consists of a knowledge of the the most current technology and having the ability to apply this technology as a mechanic.

There is a specific field for each aircraft mechanic to work in. You can choose from several different types of workplaces such as aircraft manufacturing facilities, airfields, and the military. While the majority of aircraft mechanics are generalists, repairing all of the systems on a variety of aircraft, others are specialists, working only on specifics parts.

Before deciding on a career as an aviation mechanic, please understand that maintenance will be a daily requirement that will consume most of your time. FAA certification standards require continuous training, particularly if you have an A&P certificate. So be sure you log in at least 1,000 hours of mechanical work every two years or you will have to take refresher courses.

While you are deciding to become an aircraft mechanic you should know all of the possible opportunities. Your educational and certification requirements will depend on which field of study you wish to pursue and what types of aircraft you want to work on. Enter your field only after cautiously pondering it, making sure you have made a knowledgeable decision.

Education and Auto Repair

Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you skilled at reasoning and problem solving? If so, you may be interested in a job in the auto repair industry. There are many specialized fields in this broad industry, including automotive technology, automotive electronics, diesel technology, and auto body repair. These are simply a few of the many areas in which an education in automotive technology will prepare you for a career.

Because of advances in technology, mechanics who used to be concerned simply with external repairs have found that a more technological training is now required. Because of this rise in the sophistication of technology, an individual seeking a career in the automotive repair industry will find that an education is absolutely necessary in obtaining the knowledge and skills necessary for the job.

A skilled automotive technician is not only able to repair, maintain, and inspect automobiles, but is also skilled at reasoning and problem solving and is able to quickly identify problems with a customer’s automobile. An education in this field is necessary to learn these skills as well as to gain complete familiarity with automobile structure. Auto repair technicians and mechanics must also be familiar and skilled with the use of a wide variety of tools. A proper training from a school of automotive technology can provide the basis one needs for this career.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 803,000 automobile service technicians and mechanics held jobs in 2004. The Bureau also indicates that, for those who have the proper education and training, job opportunities are especially promising. The Bureau also indicates that employers have reported a shortage of qualified workers, which makes an education and training even more important to any individual wishing to pursue a career in automotive technology. Demand for mechanics and automotive technicians will continue to increase as the number of automobiles in operation increases. An increasing number of families own multiple cares, and as this number increases, the demand for maintenance and repair workers also increases.

From this data, it is obvious that a career in the automotive industry is not only enjoyable, but also holds a promising future. As the demand for automotive technicians increases, so will the wages. Currently the median wage for automotive workers is $15.60 per hour. The highest ten percent of automotive workers earns $26.22 per hour. Many mechanics who work for a dealership or company also receive a commission. As the work becomes more technically sophisticated, salary and wages are sure to rise with the demand for specialized workers.

In order to have the capacity for this specialized work, an individual seeking a career in the automotive repair industry must have the proper education and training. One helpful tool in the search for a school to provide that training is http://www.automotive-school-directory.com/ where individuals will find a wide variety of schools and training programs where they can receive the necessary education for a career in automotive repair. The programs found at http://www.automotive-school-directory.com/ can assist any individual seeking a job in automotive repair or technology in achieving their goals and establishing a career.

6 Tips to Help You Choose a Good Auto Mechanic

Having your automobile break down is not an exciting experience but being unsure of where to take your automobile to get it fixed can be worse. Most folks have a regular doctor, dentist, vet, accountant, etc. and usually we have researched and picked them in advance just in case we get sick or need advice...so why don't most folks have a reliable auto repair shop to go to? Automobiles are complicated systems, just like the human body... so it is vital to take your car in to an auto repair facility that you can rely on for regular maintenance.

I'm an eternal optimist and generally assume that auto repair facilities are honest and that most mechanics generally try to help you by recommending services that will keep your vehicle running smoothly and ultimately saving you time and stress by avoiding some major repairs. Again, just like the human body, the better you take care of your vehicle, the better it will perform in the long run.

I've put together a list of 6 tips that will help you find someone that you can trust to keep your automobile in good running order.

1. Look For auto repair shops that display the ASE Certified logo. ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence. Having an ASE designation is just about important as having the letters "MD." after your doctor's name. Now don't get me wrong, there are decent mechanics who aren't ASE certified, but generally it's too risky unless they have been referred by someone you trust. Another important industry designation to look for is NAPA Auto Care.

2. Ask Your Friends or Co-Workers Where They Take Their Vehicle. Word of mouth recommendations are worth their weight in gold.

3. Shop for features and benefits of a shop. Just because a facility may charge a little more than others, might mean that they offer a longer warranty period, free emergency towing, courtesy shuttle service, or extended hours for convenience. Price is not always the best method of decision making.

4. Find Out the Details of Their Warranty. Most car repair shops offer an in house 12 month/12,000 mile warranty on parts and labor. Make sure you understand exactly what it covers and what it doesn't cover. Don't be afraid of asking questions, a reputable facility should have nothing to hide. Top repair facilities will have a nationwide warranty and an in house warranty that will cover more than just the 12 months/12,000 miles.

5. Most Good Mechanics Keep Their Work Area Organized And Clean. Their work area, tools, floor, etc should be reasonably clean. Now Don't Forget that the auto repair business is not generally a super clean industry, but it still should be picked up and organized.

6. Research your Prospective Auto Repair Mechanic. You may find out that they have awards for years of customer satisfaction or many customer complaints. The local Better Business Bureau is a good source for this type of information. A short set of searches online will help you to find out quickly what positive and negatives your local auto repair mechanic is known for.

Researching ahead of time will help make sure that when you need a reliable auto repair facility, you won't be taken advantage of. Finding a good mechanic can be difficult, but it is very important. A trustworthy auto repair shop will go out of their way to make sure you and your car are being well cared for. A little research on your part now will give you peace of mind down the road.