Is Cheap Windshield Replacement Worth It?

When you need windshield replacement services, you may immediately think of taking your car to the local garage if the technicians there served you well in the past. However, if the damage is huge and it looks like you will have to replace the whole windshield, you should get a repair quote online.

With so many windshield replacement companies available, you will receive varied price quotes; from dirt-cheap ones to ridiculously highly-priced ones. You may be tempted to go for companies offering cheap price quotes but before you do so, know what you are getting into. Like they say, every price comes at a cost. By choosing a company that offers the cheapest quote, you may be signing off your car to be repaired with inexperienced, undertrained technicians.

While you are looking to save, you may get the exact opposite in the long run. How many times have you heard a person regretting taking his car to a cheap garage? Getting a temporary fix at a cheap price may be preparing for more costly damages in future.

When Should You Go For Cheap Windshield Replacement?

However, you do not always have to ignore cheap price quotes. There are situations where opting for cheap windshield replacement will make sense. For example:

• If you need temporary windshield replacement and are traveling out-of-state, you may go for a cheap quote just to avoid getting a ticket for driving with a cracked-out windshield.

• If your windshield is already badly damaged and you are likely to replace it, you can get a temporary job done to hold on in the meantime.

Apart from these situations, getting a comprehensive windshield replacement work at a cheap price may be a sign that you will receive poor services.

Choosing the Right Windshield Replacement Company
With the risks of going for a cheap glass company in mind, how do you identify the right auto glass repair company?

The right glass company is not necessarily the most expensive one. Quality is not determined by how high the price is set. Rather, it is determined by a set of things that you should confirm as you search. Before you decide to take you r car to a particular windshield repair company, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Is the glass company registered? Working with unregistered companies can lead you to a dead end should you need to take a legal route against the service providers. Check the license of the businesses before you contract them to start windshield replacement.

2. Are the technicians certified? Most rogue companies offer substandard training to new technicians in the pretense of them being on apprenticeship. Ask to see the qualifications of the lead technician who will be working on your windshield.

3. Is the price unrealistic? Companies that charge too low or too high should be avoided. As you research online, ask for tentative quotes from a number of companies. Check the average costs to know what price is acceptable.

4. Does the glass company offer a warranty for its services? A good company should be confident with its work and offer a guarantee. Find out what guarantee the company is giving on its services. Usually, you should expect to have the problem fixed for free should it occur in future within certain duration.

The above are some of the things that you should consider when you are looking for an auto windshield replacement services provider. Doing research on the internet can lead you to reputable companies. Before you decide to work with a company, check the Better Business Bureau website for any complaints filed against the company.

Add a Towing Service to Your Auto Body Repair Franchise

An auto body repair franchise has the potential for great success. There are so many drivers on the road today which means there are always vehicles that need to be fixed. Making sure that you have a well run auto body franchise is the key to success. You want to make sure you offer a variety of services, have great customer service and be ready for anything that comes your way. You need to make your auto body franchise a one stop shop for all of your customers. Sometimes that may mean adding different services to your auto body franchise to make it better and as customer friendly as possible. One such service you could add is a towing service.

Many people today are looking for convenience in everything they do from getting gas to auto body repair. So, if you want to get customers to your auto body franchise you need to make it convenient. In striving to be convenient you will need to make your auto body franchise a one stop shop for all customers. Not all customers will be able to simply drive their car into your shop for repair. So, it would be very helpful to add a towing service option for your auto body franchise shop.

To add a towing service to your auto body shop there are a few options you could considers. First you may want to have an in house towing service that only works for you, you may want to get a tow truck and get the certification required and do it yourself, or you may want a towing service that will recommend you to their customers but is not only towing for you. Let's take a look at all of these options.

First you may decide to have a towing service on site that only tows for you. This can be great because you will always have someone to tow people if they call you. However it can be quite costly since they are only working for you they may ask you to pay a little more.

Next you could consider getting your own tow truck and all the certifications that are needed. This is great because you will always have the tow truck on site to go pick up cars. You will also be receiving the extra money that the customer pays for the towing service. However, it can be expensive to purchase the truck, insurance and whatever else you may need to operate it.

Or you may want just have an agreement with a towing company that they will recommend you to customers or you can recommend them to tow your customers to your shop. This is great for both businesses. The only down fall of this is that they will work for other business or independent car owners so they may not be as quick since they may be handling other customers. This is a great arrangement other than that.

So, there are many ways you can add a towing service to your auto body franchise. It will help to provide that one stop shop for your customers!

The Importance of the Vehicle-To-Windshield Bond When Getting a Replacement Windshield

The windshield and some auto glass are very important safety aspects of a car, truck or RV.

Windshields and auto glass are an essential safety device, just like the seat belts and air bags. In the unlikely event of an accident one's safety depends on the quality of the windshield repair installation especially.

Windshield replacement must have a very high strength bond to provide a multitude of safety features. The bond assists the vehicle's occupant compartment from crushing in a rollover accident. The middle layer aids in preventing ejection, and impact onto hard surfaces, from the vehicle by slowing the occupant's body inertia (especially when there are no air bags or the occupants do not wear their seat belts) -making the bond essential to be at several hundreds of pounds per square inch in strength to the vehicle. The windshield itself acts as a backboard for the airbags absorbing much of the impact. Correctly installed auto glass, especially windshield replacement, further provides structural rigidity making for a more stable vehicle when trying to avoid accidents on some cars.

Windshield bonding glues are called urethane adhesives, but not all urethane is the same. There are many urethane glues made by many different manufacturers. The strength of each urethane is different and can be as low as a couple hundred psi of strength to over a thousand psi of strength. Also there are glues called high modulus / low conductive urethane glue which must be used on some cars. High modulus has even more strength to its elasticity, providing more structural rigidity for cars that need it.

Did you know that many new cars on the road today have poorly installed windshields from the factory!!!

After removing OEM factory installed windshields, we have found many vehicle manufacturers out there which improperly install auto glass. The glue used to secure a windshield provides hundreds of pounds per square inch of strength. However in these cases, the glue used by the manufacturer to secure the windshield was applied to paint that was not sticking to the primer well enough causing the windshield-to-vehicle bond to be weak, and dangerous. This puts lives at risk. The best way to install a windshield is to apply glue to unpainted primer from factory, like many of the higher end cars such as Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, etc.

The importance of a properly installed windshield cannot be over-stated. Your windshield is an important part of the structural integrity of your vehicle. It is important to have your windshield installed by a professional installer which uses a good bonding system correctly.

The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards do not regulate the repair and replacement of windshields in the United States. They do set standards that are supposed to be followed for manufacturers and replacement repairs but it is up to the company you choose to follow and insure those standards are met. There are some companies and not for profits that do also set standards such as the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council (AGRSS), I-Car and the National Glass association (NGA).

The Tune Up - The Secret To Keeping Your Vehicle Running Great Without Breaking The Bank

A tune up for your vehicle is much more than just preventative maintenance. When your truck or car is running at peak performance, you will see a number of benefits to your wallet and your stress level. The services of a professional auto repair shop will help your vehicle run better with improved fuel economy and substantial cost savings. Better yet, your vehicle will suffer fewer breakdowns and the associated stress and cost for towing and repairs. A well tuned car also performs better to allow you to drive more safely and to react to road conditions, avoiding accidents.

So a tune up is not only vital for your car's well being, but also for your well being. When looking for an auto repair shop, focus on finding shops that staff only ASME certified technicians and mechanics, while offering comprehensive services in a single location.

What To Look For In A Top Quality Auto Repair Shop

A tune up is much more than just a quick fix. Performed properly and thoroughly, professional and ASME certified mechanics will extend the life and value of a vehicle while anticipating and preventing future issues. Look for an auto repair shop that services any make and model, domestic or foreign, any year, and will work on cars, trucks, and SUVs. Some of the key tune up services your mechanic should include are:

• Complete belt inspection and replacement service

• Fuel injector and air intake cleaning

• Spark plug replacement (including spark plug wires) every 50,000 miles

• Oil change and lube every 3,000 miles or 3 months

• Air filter replacement as needed

• Fuel filter replacement before 50,000 miles

• Inspection of the distributor cap and replacement if it is worn or corroded

• PCV valve maintenance and repair

• Oxygen sensor service to ensure optimal combustion

• Brake check for worn parts and even braking

• Check battery charge and replace preemptively if it no longer holds a strong charge

This list covers most of the basic services in a thorough tune up, but each vehicle may require more or less work. By using ASME certified technicians, you can find an auto repair shop that knows exactly what your vehicle needs based on make, model, year, and driving habits.

More Tips For A Well Tuned Vehicle

When your vehicle is in for service, it makes sense to have its state inspection and emission inspection performed if required in your state. Utilize a shop that can perform both the physical and computer diagnostics to check your vehicle from headlight to taillight. Anticipating problems and fixing them before your vehicle breaks down saves you the cost of a tow and unexpectedly losing access to your vehicle. Plus, the technicians will know exactly how your vehicle is performing with these diagnostic checks and are able to fine tune the engine, power train, and drive train.

A thorough tune up from a professional auto repair shop will save you time, money and frustration in the long run of owning a vehicle.

Why You Should Look For An ASE Certified Mechanic For Your Next Car Repair

Cars and trucks have gotten much more complex over the years; gone are the days when everyone could work on their cars in their own garage or back yard. Today's technology in vehicles, from electronics and computer chips to increased fuel efficiency, means that vehicles are sometimes just too complex and time consuming for the average DIYer.

Finding the best mechanics to provide auto repair services is absolutely essential. Keeping your vehicles on the road and not stuck in the shop is extremely important; for many people, their vehicles are their livelihood. In order to get the best auto services, look for an ASE certified mechanic for all of your auto repair and maintenance work.

What Is An ASE Certified Mechanic?

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence runs a comprehensive program to certify trained personnel. An ASE certified mechanic must pass a comprehensive exam, have two years of on the job training and work experience, and must pass a refresher exam every five years. Furthermore, the best mechanics can shoot for the Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition program and specialize in key automotive areas, such as automobile, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, collision repair, and more.

Why Should You Use An ASE Certified Mechanic?

Certification is an excellent way to vet a potential service provider. A garage that only employs certified personnel is staffed with employees with the proven auto repair knowledge and skills that are vital for working on today's cars, trucks, and SUVs.

There is nothing worse than having to bring your vehicle back to a garage for repairs if the job wasn't done right the first time. Certified repair personnel are trained and experienced to be able to diagnose and solve problems the first time.

One of the best reasons to stick with a certified professional for your auto repair and maintenance needs is safety. Having a well running vehicle is important to you and your family's safety. Breaking down on the road can be a dangerous situation and break downs always seem to occur at the worst place and at the worst time. You can't prevent 100% of break downs ahead of time, but you can certainly play it safe by having professional perform regular preventative maintenance on your vehicle.

Long Term Benefits Of Quality Car Care

In the end, receiving the best possible car care will keep your vehicle on the road longer and save you money. A vehicle that receives regular maintenance, running at peak performance, will get better gas mileage and cost less in repairs. And ultimately, the more miles you can put on your vehicle, the better value you will get from the down payment and monthly payments. Preventative maintenance and repairs done by a professional ASE certified mechanic are essential to getting the most out of your vehicle.

Build Your Auto Shop With Steel to Get a Durable Building

In the past fifteen years the use of metal for commercial, industrial and auto shops has increased significantly. Since auto repair shops house expensive automobiles and equipment, these buildings should be strong and sturdy.

Steel buildings have become popular in recent years; besides being sound and durable they are cost efficient and offer low maintenance. In fact, the cost involves land, labor, and installation of air conditioners, heat and electrical equipment, along with interior finish.

Some advantages of using steel for your metal shop include increased architectural acceptance, advances in design versatility and production processes besides significant cost advantages. Apart from this, constructing a steel building takes much less time than any other type of building.

One great thing about steel buildings is that they can be customized quickly and economically as per your requirements before, during and after the completion of the building, so that expansions of all dimensions can be easily accommodated. Your steel auto shop building can be expanded by removing the end or sidewalls, erecting new framework and adding matching wall and roof panels.

Yet another important advantage offered by these steel buildings is resistance to extreme weather conditions like high winds, severe snow storms, hurricanes, and even earthquakes. They also show resistance to termites, creeping, cracks, splitting and rotting, thereby increasing the strength of the building.

These buildings also offer options for strengthening steel against any sort of damage and fire. Moreover, most steel building manufacturers of good reputation offer a 25 year warranty which ensures immediate security when building your steel auto shop.

In order to fulfill the aesthetic requirements of customers, architects and designers frequently combine a metal building system with masonry, glass and wood exterior facades, and at the same time maintain the intrinsic uniqueness of metal building systems.

You need to plan your steel auto shop before getting into this venture, which is an easy process. You need to do thorough research and planning before you order your building; this will make the entire process much easier and, above all, you will get maximum return on your investment.

As a matter of fact, steel auto shop buildings are amongst the most adaptable, strong, lightweight and structurally sound buildings that presently exist. Besides being extremely durable they are easy to customize and assemble, and above all significantly cost effective.

Since steel buildings are simple to plan, design and construct they have become one of the most preferred options when building your auto repair shop.

Free Auto Repair Manuals - Find Auto Repair Manuals Online

For the do-it-yourselfer, repairing your own vehicle can save you $100. But don't shell out $20 or $30 for a repair manual that you may only use once. You might be surprised to learn there are several sources where you can get free auto repair manuals.

Repair manuals online:

o One of the first places to try is AutoZone's website. The site has a very comprehensive free auto repair guides covering most makes and models of vehicles from 1950 to the present.
o Napa auto parts website provides tutorials on basic auto maintenance such as oil changes, checking fluid levels and replacing air filters.
o Automoting.com has tons of information, is very user friendly and as a bonus, even has guides for repairing small engines and household repairs.

Message boards and forums:

Another useful resource is the 2carpros.com website. Here you can post questions and get answers from real mechanics. You can also search through lots of topics on auto repair, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Edmunds web site also has a pretty good forum called car talk. It is peer based and has quite a few very knowledgeable members on board.

There are quite a few other forums and message boards available online, as well as peer based ones. Just type in auto repair forums or message boards in any search engine and you will see quite a few. Just watch out for ones that say they are free but try to sell you something, or say you can post questions, but must pay a fee to receive an answer. You will most likely find free auto repair guides and all the information that you need, so there is no need to pay for help.

Libraries:

Another often overlooked option for free auto repair manuals is your local library.

Most libraries have repair manuals in their reference sections, and although you can't check them out and take them with you, you are welcome to make photo copies of any pages you need from the manuals.

A lot of local libraries also subscribe to online auto repair manuals such as Chilton's or Haynes and offer free access if you have a library card.

Contact your local library and ask if this service is available.

If you really prefer to have a paper manual, check half.com, an eBay company that sells used books for a fraction of the price of new. Some of the manuals as low as $1.99. There are several other used book websites like Alibris books and Bookfinder.com to name a couple.

You can also check local used book stores.

And don't forget to ask friends and family, who knows, someone may have just the manual you need collecting dust in the garage!

Find an Auto Body Shop That Produces Quality Work

Your car costs you a lot of money and you depend on it to get you where you want and need to go. So, if something were to happen to it, you want to make sure that it is in the best hands possible. Choosing an auto body shop that will produce quality work is hard and takes time. You wouldn't trust just anyone with your kids, why trust just anyone with your car. A car is for the most part replaceable, however if you spent money on it, and time to get it how you want you don't want someone doing work on it who does produce that best quality work possible. Find an auto body shop that produces quality work to repair your vehicle.

Quality a degree or grade of excellence or worth. Something can be of good or bad quality. You want something that is of good quality for your car. Most car owners want their car to stay looking nice for a long time to come, especially since much more expensive than a new pair of shoes. Sometimes blemishes on your car are unavoidable and others are simply mistakes. The important part is that you take it to an auto body shop that will produce a good quality job for your car.

When looking for the right auto body shop for your vehicle you should start by finding out about their reputation. Generally if a shop is of good quality people will have good things to say about it. If it is of bad quality the rule of thumb is that they will have a lot more to say about in a bad way.

Also, a key thing to do is find an auto body shop that is willing to shop you examples of their work. Really your level of quality is not the same as everyone else's. So, you need to visually see that the work the produce is of good quality for you.

Next you want to see if they have any form of certifications for auto body repairs. You want to know that they have been properly trained on the best methods for repairing your vehicle. A certification can show that they are recognized as being qualified to perform auto body repairs.

Ask what kinds of methods they use to repair vehicles. Then you can check them out on your own to see if they are beneficial and if there is anything else that could be done that is possible a better solution for your auto reconditioning needs.

Then you should find out if they back up their work somehow. Do they offer any kind of warranty or guarantee on their work. If they do offer some sort of guarantee then that shows they have confidence that their work is of good quality and if there is an issue they will personally fix the problem.

Finding the best auto reconditioning shop will take you a little time but is well worth it in the end, when your car is looking great!

Criteria For Pricing Car Insurance

Your declarations page is that sheet you get each time you renew your insurance that lists all of your deductibles, what you are covered for, and how much you are paying. If you do not have a current copy of your declarations page then contact your insurance agent and ask them to send one to you. You may want to use that opportunity to let your agent know you are looking for new insurance, and the reasons that you are looking. One of the first places you should shop for insurance is with your current provider. If they feel that you may be leaving, then they may be willing to offer you a better deal.

One of the main criteria you will be using for your car insurance pricing is your deductibles. Your deductibles are how much you pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in and pays the rest. In some cases the deductible is per occurrence which means that it applies each time you use it, or it can be annual which means that once you pay your deductible once it is paid for the rest of the year. The lower your deductible the higher your monthly premium will be, and that is why so many people choose to have such high deductibles. It is up to you to weigh the difference between the rise in premium and the drop in deductible, but if the difference is not significant then it may be best to take the lower deductible. A $500 deductible may seem like something you can manage until you get into an accident that causes $499 worth of damage.

There are extras and other coverage that becomes part of your quote as well. In some cases you may have liability insurance that covers other drivers that you may get involved in an accident with. The more liability insurance you carry, the higher your premium. If you are still paying for your car then you will usually have to add collision coverage to your car which repairs your car if you are ever in an accident. Cars that are paid for do not usually need collision coverage, but if the car is still valuable then collision coverage might be a good idea. There is the option for a rental car if your car is in the shop, but be warned that rental coverage rarely covers the complete daily cost of renting a replacement car so do not count on it saving you if your car is in the shop.

Finally there is glass coverage which is always recommended. When you have glass coverage you can get broken or cracked windows repaired at no cost, and in many cases you can have the glass repair shop come to your place of work and repair your car while you are working. That is the convenience of insurance coverage.

Auto Mechanic Job Description

When looking for a career it is very important to know what these jobs consist of before taking the plunge into a dark abyss. This article is designed to help you know and learn about what auto mechanics actually do and what is required of them.

All of us have taken our car into a repair shop, lets face it, every car you have ever owned has had at least one problem that a service shop has had to help you with. Mechanics are required to talk to customers and try and pinpoint the problem. A lot of times the mechanic will actually drive the car to find out what is wrong with it. Once the problem is determined it is up to the auto worker to talk to the customer about what is wrong. If the customer agrees and wants the problem fixed, it is up to the auto mechanic to quote a price to the customer for the part and labor of replacing it. If a part is not in stock it is also their responsibility to order the parts and notify the customer of when the part will be in.

Mechanics are really customer service people instead of just grease monkeys. Of course having knowledge of the car is an absolute must, but having knowledge of how to work with people is where repair shops will succeed. Repeat business will keep an auto mechanic busy for years to come and little will have to be spent on advertising to bring in business.

What Causes a Car Engine to Backfire?

Does your motor vehicle engine run okay? Or does it cut-out on you sometimes around town or when you are on a long trip? Think about it... does it *sputter* and *spit* and repeatedly *backfire*, then afterward it starts running okay, again?

Symptoms of this type can be several things.

1. You could have a spark plug wire shorting out. This is often the case so it pays to check it out thoroughly!

2. You could have an electrical wire shorting out. Again, this is another common symptom so give this area careful consideration. Remember that when it comes to your motor vehicles "electrical wire shorting out" you will need to take your vehicle to a reputable auto electrical technician.

POSSIBLE WATER IN THE FUEL TANK

3. You may have some water in the fuel tank. Most people do not even think about this sort of thing occurring but you would be surprised to know just how often this is the case. You can even pick up water in gasoline from a service station.

Now, let us discuss these three things as outlined above.

Over the years you probably have not had your fuel tank full of gasoline at all times. With a fuel tank half empty, the upper part of the tank can oftentimes cause a build up of condensation. This condensation that slowly builds up and then it runs down into the bottom of the automobile fuel tank.

PROBLEM WATER IN THE FUEL LINE

When you start to pass another motor vehicle you call upon the fuel pump to give you more diesel or gasoline. The fuel pump starts working overtime and picks up more fuel, then the water and/or moisture finds its way into the line along with the fuel. The fuel filter catches this water and since water is heavier than gasoline, it drops to the bottom of the filter.

Next you accelerate even faster to get around the car that you are trying to pass. Right? What actually happens when you floorboard it?

Simply put, you are asking for more fuel so that you can accelerate even much faster. With the filter partially full of condensation and/or water, some of it gets picked up into the fuel line and goes to the carburettor or injector. But you no doubt will hear some unusual noises and/or a sluggish feeling in performance until the car engine smooths out and way you go!

A SIMPLE SOLUTION

You can quickly and easily solve this problem (that is: most of the time) by simply changing the fuel filter at least two or maybe three times a year.

However, if changing your fuel filter does not fix the problem then most likely you will have to get a mechanic to remove the fuel tank and clean it out.

How to Quickly Change a Tire

The other day I was putt-puttering along the highway when out of the corner of my eye I see the car to my left is losing the tread of their front tire. I flip on my hazard lights, slow down, pull behind them, and follow as they veer off onto the shoulder of the road. Inside the car: a mother and her two, now screaming, very hungry twins. My mission: Change that tire and get them back on the road as soon as possible.

First Things First

If you are dealing with an automatic car, go ahead and pop that baby into park if you haven't already. Also get the parking brake on. If you are dealing with a manual transmission, put the car in first gear or reverse to prevent it from rolling. So from this point on I'm assuming you have all the proper tools: a spare tire, tire iron, diamond jack, etc and you have removed plastic hubcaps or lug nut covers on the tire needing changed.

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts

Do this before you start jacking up the car! It will be a lot easier to loosen a tire's lug nuts when it's still on the ground then trying to unscrew something that rotates with your tire iron. Don't full remove your lug nuts or loosen them too much just enough that you get them started and won't have to battle a spinning tire to loosen them when your car is on a jack.

2. Jack Up You Car

Most cars have a slot cut into their frame where a jack fits properly. If the car you are presently working on does not, just keep in mind that you want to attach the jack to the frame of the car, the close to the tire the better. Now don't go getting all crazy when you jack this sucker up either, ok? Just a few inches off the ground is all you really need and probably all your jack will allow.

3. Finish Removing the Lug Nuts and Swap the Tire

Remove all the lug nuts and replace the trashed tire with a spare. Once you've affixed the tire you can begin to tighten the lug nuts. Remember that when you do this it's important to tighten each lug opposite of one another, never tighten it in sequence.

4. Slowly Lower The Jack and be On Your Way

After properly affixing you new spare tire and tightening the lug nuts, you should slowly lower the jack until the wheel is once again resting on the ground and the car's weight is being supported by the wheels. It is important to remember that a spare tire is not made to go as fast or as far as a regular tire so keep your speed in check and get to a tire shop as soon as possible to get a replacement.

In case you were wondering, I was able to get the kind lady back on the road pretty quick, the twins mellowed out when some gummy fruits came into play, and I did my good deed for the day.

Where Should You Go to Repair Your Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle?

Accessibility conversions are delicate and specialised procedures that should only really be conducted by a professional. You know that to get the best in safety and quality you should get your van converted at a professional accessible car designer and dealer, so it follows that for repairs and services you should give your van the same specialist treatment.

If your wheelchair accessible vehicle has been constructed or converted to a high standard, there is no reason why the conversion parts should break down suddenly, but frequent services are needed to ensure that the car continues to perform at its best. When your mobility vehicle does need a service or does break down, you should take it to a fully-trained mechanic who is experienced with repairing specialty vans.

An experienced mechanic will be able to care for your car as a whole and check over the accessibility modifications. It is essential that these parts are looked into at every standard service to ensure the ultimate safety of the wheelchair accessible vehicle. Additionally, by taking your van to a specialist mechanic, you should be able to easily put in place any further additions or conversions on your car or van. We often don't realise exactly what we need in our vans until we actually begin driving in them, so having some continued assistance can be invaluable in arriving at the most appropriate car for your needs.

At every service you should make sure that the wheelchair restraints and lifts are checked and repaired if needed. If either of these aspects of your wheelchair accessible vehicle are damaged or worn, there would be serious consequences on the overall safety of your van or car. A specialist mechanic will understand what condition these parts should be in and judge your mobility car accordingly.

You should also take your van to a specialist repair centre for reasons of convenience. A specialist mechanic will have all the necessary replacement parts in stock, so your van will be back on the road and getting you places as soon as possible. This is very important as you wouldn't want to discover that your lift is out of action, leaving you with the only option of staying at home or taking expensive taxis for the next week or so. A specialist mechanic will understand both your car's needs and your own needs, and will focus on giving your wheelchair accessible vehicle the safest repair possible.

What Makes Up a Modern Auto Mechanic?

Not everyone is allowed to call themselves a mechanic. Just as regulations determine who can bill themselves as an engineer or a doctor, modern mechanics have completed extensive auto technician training and passed multiple difficult certification exams. The parallel with doctor and engineer doesn't stop with job descriptions either. When you become a mechanic you're going to take on maintaining and healing a system that's almost as complicated as the human body, but birthed by engineers.

Modern automobiles have many parts and pieces. Auto mechanic programs have to teach not just the care and feeding of the internal combustion engine, but also the brakes, the steering, the repair of the chassis, the careful maintenance of the tires, the ventilation and increasingly, the brain of the car. From onboard GPS to smart phone hookups, the cars of the past decades are wired up. They even have onboard computers with internal sensors that let the mechanic get information on the function of the car.

Similarly, the tools have evolved. No mechanic stereotype would be complete without a selection of wrenches, a hydraulic hoist and grease stained coveralls, but these days auto mechanic programs graduates have so much more at their disposal. They learn to weld with computer simulators, and measure tire pressure with sophisticated gauges. The pressure of their airbrushes is reliable and they have a full electrician's toolbox.

Plus it takes as longer than an engineering degree and almost as long as getting a medical degree to become a mechanic. Though the formal auto technician training in a school is usually about two years long and that only prepares them to be an apprentice. They'll need to put in several more years under the supervision of an employer before they can leap through the rest of their certification hoops. The only benefit is that apprentices are paid, unlike other kinds of students, but since they'll be doing good work at that point in their quest to become a mechanic that's perfectly normal.

All told, it takes about six years to become a mechanic with full certification. On the other hand, given the danger involved in poorly maintained cars, this is understandable. While a doctor must see to the safety of the patient, and outside psychiatry and containing an epidemic, most human health problems affect only the patient. A poorly maintained car is a hazard to passengers, pedestrians and the driver alike, and a danger to everything else on the road. Engineers wear an iron ring to remind themselves of the responsibility of good design, but for a mechanic, their reminder comes every time they work on a car damaged by an accident. Each shattered car must be carefully assessed and repaired as good as new before it can return to service.

How to Properly Repair Chips and Deep Scratches on Your Car

We all have received them on our cars - rock chips, door dings, bumper scrapes, etc... They can come from a rock thrown up from a truck on the highway, or its as easy as a parking lot ding from someone in a hurry or even an errant grocery cart. Most of these are unavoidable. They can happen even if you park far away from stores and regardless of the measures you take to protect your car. Not only do they detract from your cars beauty, but they can also make your car susceptible to rust and the environment. Here's how to fix these paint chips, nicks and deep scratches and protect your car from rust.

Its not worth going to a auto paint and body store for chips and scratches. They will charge 10 times more for repairs you can easily do yourself. The first step is to locate the chips and scratches and see how deep they are. If they don't go all the way through the paint you can buff them out. Using a cloth terry towel apply a small amount of scratch remover or cleaner wax. Rub in a circular motion over the chip or scratch and buff when dry. If this removes the chip or scratch after a couple of applications, great, then just follow with a good wax or polish. If you see white primer or metal in the nick or scratch scratch remover or cleaner wax will not work well.

Some cars have paint that is lacquer based and others have paint that is enamel based. The following tip works wonders on cars with lacquer based paint only. Get a clean rag and apply a small amount of lacquer thinner to it. Take this and rub lightly on and around the scratch, nick or chip. The lacquer thinner will actually start to move the paint around and cover the affected spot. This even works on larger scrapes. This treatment is not recommended on cars with custom paint jobs and may not work on all cars with lacquer based paints.

For those with enamel paint or scratches and chips where the above treatment didn't work, then you have to touch up the blemish in your paint. First, you need to get the paint code so you can correctly match the paint for your car. This is located inside your door jam or on some Hondas inside the glove box. Take this paint code to your dealer and get a small bottle of touch up paint. The touch up paint will come in a small bottle with a brush applicator. Instead of using the brush, as it will apply too broadly and make your touch up of the chip or scratch really stand out, we recommend using a toothpick for better paint placement.

First clean the area of the chip or scratch. Then follow the directions on the touch up paint bottle. Usually it is mix thoroughly for 5 minutes (metallic paints may require more agitation). Then using the toothpick place the paint directly in the chip or scratch. When done allow to dry for several days before waxing or polishing (some cars have a clear cote which you would then apply in the same fashion to the affected area). By touching up the paint you have sealed the area from the environment and greatly reduced the chances of rust setting in and affecting your sheet metal. Rust is like cancer for your car and very difficult to stop once it starts, so it is better to be proactive and prevent it with proper car care and treatment and quickly identifying and repairing paint chips, nicks and scratches. For more great free info on automotive repair, treatments and headlight cleaning and restoration, please visit the link below.

Good Engine and Transmission Repair or Replacement Decision Tips From an Auto Repair Shop

Transmissions and engines play a major role in automobiles but a lot of drivers are not aware of this fact. Transmissions and engines will serve as a power plant and propels the wheels of automobiles. In addition, transmissions and engines will help drivers and the passengers get from point A to point B. Since they play such important tasks, they must be built well and there must not be any room for error during the process of manufacturing. Car manufacturers must guarantee the quality of the final product or these parts before they are going to install them to the automobiles.

On the other hand, thousands of people drive with broken automobiles every year due to repairs they did not get on their automobiles. Sadly, a lot of people do not realize the risks and problems a simple problem or leak on their transmission and engine can cause. It must not take car mechanics long to get the point across that the transmissions and engines should have been serviced in order to get your attention on your vehicles bill. When it comes to the repair of auto transmissions and engines, it is very essential to take the right measures and make good decisions.

Many times, a repair is good enough but if the failure is very serious, then, simple repair is out of question. In such cases, transmission and engine replacement may be the best solution. Whether you admit it or not, transmission and engine replacement is necessary if there is an extreme failure or situation with overheating. At times, these failures begin as little leaks which can be cause mechanical stress, high temperature deterioration and mechanical failure. But regardless of the situations behind the leak or failure, it is very important to take care of engine and transmission replacements before it will cost too much. As mentioned earlier, engines and transmissions are there to create mechanical power to propel or drive you around the city or country. Therefore, waiting for too long to replace faulty engines and transmissions might actually be a troublesome for the automobile. More than 100's of people every year make bad decisions which can come from individuals who are not taking care of their cars. It doesn't help when the auto repair shop guides you wrong with helping you decide what road to take with your auto repairs.

In order to try to minimize such failures caused by broken engines and transmissions, replacement or the engine or transmission consideration is needed. Take plenty of time in order to shop around to locate reputable service and know the engine or transmission replacement cost. Make certain that the manufacturer has good replacement standards and can deliver the quality service that is worth the costs. Make sure that the parts quality is good enough to prevent you from any form of re-occurrence of problems of your car. It may also be helpful if you are going to contact a technician or mechanic to find out what kind of maintenance services that is recommended for your car.

Many shops might prefer you to drop off without hesitation and they may offer higher price if they can get away with it, but ask yourself is it worth it? If you are thinking of the price tag, doing your research for a quality job, you must consider also if the engine or transmission replacement insurance is something you can take advantage of. You just have to know what are the requirements are for the insurance and where to purchase it locality. Having engine and transmission replacement insurance may not only help you financially but should ensure that you get standard quality of service at a time of need.

Engine and transmission replacement can cost people a lot. You need to always find a way on how you can prevent the engine and transmission replacement costs effectively and keep up with your cars maintenance.

Body Kits To Customize Your Car

For some people, customizing their cars is one of the best ways to make their vehicle look and stand out from the rest of the machines out in the highway as well as in the parking lot. After all, in this world where everything seems to be mass produced, it would be best to make the difference yourself.

Body kits are considered as one of the ways of making your vehicle to look different and unique as well. With body kits, you can choose what to do with your vehicle's design, as well as do the creating yourself. In essence, a body kit is actually a collection of exterior modifications for a car. The common parts that make up these kits include front bumpers, rear bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers although there are other body kits that add other parts as well. Aside from giving your vehicle a complete and new look, body kits also give your car better aerodynamics.

There are some body kits that are made up of fiberglass. Although some body kits are made from polyurethane. For most car owners, polyurethane is their top choice for it is resistant to damage and come the cold months, this type of material does not crack, however, once it is damaged, it cannot be repaired. On the other hand, fiberglass body kits actually fit cars better and can be repaired if it is damaged.

Buying a body kit for your vehicle is easy. You would have first need to decide as per what kind of material you would like your vehicle to hold. As mentioned, your choices would include fiberglass or urethane. Knowing what kind of material you would like your car to have for its body kit would give you a much narrower range of kits to select from. If you have no idea as per what kind of body kit you would like to have, you can get ideas by visiting auto parts dealers or you can also browse through the Internet.

Once you have already chosen what kind of kit to purchase, call the manufacturer which produces the kit. Ask about warranty. Also, ask for pertinent information like the installation process, how much is the price, and the advantages of purchasing such a body kit. Automobile experts suggest that you should not buy a body kit if it actually asks you to remove some factory pieces on your vehicle so you could install it.

Auto Shop TV - 4 Ways It Can Improve Customer Satisfaction

Auto shops now have to cater to everyone, not just guys anymore. Most homes have two incomes, and according to a recent study, women make up 60% of the car buying community. According to roadandtravel.com, 65% of women take their own car to be repaired. Therefore, it is logical to conclude that women could make up a huge percentage of clients that could potentially make up your business. Add to this the likelihood that there could also be children in tow when you get visits from clients and potential clients, and you find yourself with the need to not only provide exceptional auto repair, but also the need to keep your clients entertained and occupied while they are waiting for their greatly valued possession to be complete. This is an excellent opportunity to treat your customers. Here are four ways that auto shop TV can improve customer satisfaction.

1. Opportunity to Educate

Since customers are essentially captive audiences as they wait, it's a great opportunity to provide them with educational information. Showing educational materials will increase their knowledge and help them understand their vehicles better. People like perks and things that are free which gives your shop something to set you apart from your competitors and presents your shop as knowledgeable as well as taking the time and making the effort to go that extra mile for the customers.

2. Staying Current

The playing field is different in the 21st century workplace and your field is extremely competitive. Clients want to know the shop they patronize is not only competent and trustworthy but successful as well so having modern amenities is important. Providing them with the opportunity to keep up with the stock market through the news and see current events shows that you are up to date as well as savvy. A TV for auto shops is an easy way to stay competitive.

3. Meet all of Your Customers' Needs

Your client base is diverse and has many needs. One client may have children with them and providing them with ways to keep them occupied and entertained while she waits for her car will make her life that much easier. Someone may also need to watch the current sporting event while waiting or does not want to miss their local team's big game because they are out of town when they are in your shop. Being able to provide this service to them sets you apart and makes it feel more at home.

4. Makes Your Location Sticky

When people are designing websites, they seek to make the websites sticky, meaning once a client is there, they want them to stay there. With auto shop TV, your customers will have a reason to stay longer which provides you with more opportunities to educate and to increase sales. On off days or slower days, you can even run promotions with local sporting events or television premiers that allow you to offer discounts or pass out promotions.

The selection of channels offered is as diverse and varied as your clientele, and will place your shop on a different level than the competition. TV for auto shops will show your clients and employees that you are willing to make your shop a place people want to visit and come back to again and again.

The Essential Car Repair Tool Kit - Everything You Need To Do Your Own Repairs

You may not be an ace mechanic, but there are some simple car repair jobs that just about anybody can do. In fact, the more you can do yourself, the more you'll save for when you really need help. Doing your own car repair is a fulfilling way to get closer to your beloved vehicle. It all starts with having the right tools.

Just like collecting anything else, getting your kit together becomes a sort of addiction. Watching it grow tool by tool, and seeing how each part can be used, is lots of fun and it makes driving your car more interesting. Keep in mind that this list is only the absolute basics; as you learn more about car repair, you'll add to it.

- Jack And Lug Wrench. You'll need a jack for lifting up your car and a lug wrench to remove lugs. These simple tools come in handy for almost everything. Your vehicle comes with a jack already, but it's best to ditch it and buy a better one. Hydraulic jacks are generally considered to be the best.

- Socket Set And Box Wrench Set. You can buy a basic socket set from any hardware store. You don't need anything fancy to get started doing your own car repair. The box wrench is useful for getting to hard-to-reach areas, and there are plenty of those on any vehicle. Start with basic sets and buy more as you need them.

- Combination Wrench Set. Same as above, you'll need to do some serious twisting to get at the trouble spots of your car. A combo set will have various sizes and types, and this should cover all the stuff you'll need to do with your vehicle.

- Auto Repair Manual. It's always surprising how much a good, old-fashioned repair manual will come in handy. Get the instruction manual for your car's model and make if you anticipate doing some serious repairs from time to time. If you're not going to spend so much time fixing stuff, you can always check it out of your local library.

- Work Lights. Good lighting enables you to do your work in the evening, and even in daytime they can help a lot to really see what you're doing. The best work lights to get are fluorescent shop lights. They're bright and tough, and they'll stay cool. They're great for lighting up what you're doing. Be sure to have some good extension cords as well.

The above list is very basic, but it will at least get you started. When you're first buying stuff for your car repair kit, remember that you don't need anything fancy. Salespeople will turn your head around with the latest gadgets and tools, but what you really need are some simple things that you can use when you've got something to do a car repair. Start simple and cheap, and expand into bigger and better things as your collection grows.

When To Replace Or Repair Auto Glass

Every driver will experience a cracked or chipped windshield at some point in their driving career. While it may seem like only a minor annoyance, the fact is that the windshield of your vehicle does far more than keep the bugs out of your teeth. Many cracks or chips can obstruct the view of the driver, making driving unsafe. Other chips will draw the attention of the driver and cause them to take their eyes off of the road. This is why you should have a chip or crack fixed as soon as possible.

Auto Glass: To Replace or Repair?

The main question when you are seeking to fix a cracked windshield is whether to replace or repair the glass. Most auto glass shops will opt to repair a crack or chip, as long as it is not directly in front of the driver. They will use a clear resin that is dropped onto the crack and then fixed with an ultra-violet light. The clear resin will then cure and the crack will no longer be visible to the human eye. Most cracks or chips can be effectively fixed in this manner. This method can fix small cracks as well as larger spiderweb style cracks. If an actual hole is formed in the windshield or the crack has traveled too far, your best bet is windshield replacement.

Safety Concerns

What most drivers do not realize is that the windshield is a very important safety feature of the vehicle. The windshield serves as a vital structural element of the vehicle and can be responsible for protecting you and your family during an accident. In fact, many windshields will be responsible for more than 70% of the rollover protection of the vehicle in case of a major accident. If the glass is cracked or chipped, it will not be able to offer the needed protection. This can put you and your family at risk of injury or even death.

If you opt to have the glass fixed rather than replaced, be certain to ask and view a safe drive-away chart. This chart will let you know how long the urethane will take to cure before it can offer you full protection. High quality fixes will cure in as little as one hour. This means that you can drive away after the fix and be fully protected. Some shops will try and cut corners by using less effective fixes. These adhesives will take up to one full week to cure. Make certain that a top-quality fix is used or opt for windshield replacement for your broken auto glass.

Frequently Asked Questions About Windshield Replacement

Windshield replacement can leave you with a lot of questions. While it's not a difficult procedure, it's important to know everything you can about windshield replacement before you pay for the process. This can also help you avoid damaging the windshield or botching the installation once everything is completed. Here are some common questions and concerns surrounding windshield replacement.

1. Do I have to replace my windshield or can it be repaired? The National Glass Association states that a damaged windshield should be mended as soon as possible. If you've got a simple ding or a chip in the glass then repair is likely the best route. If it's in the line of vision of the driver or exceeds the side of a half dollar coin then most insurance companies will recommend that you replace the glass.

2. Does my windshield actually protect me? Yes it does, and leaving chips and cracks reduces the structural integrity of your windshield. It's designed to be the primary safety restraint in your car. It also provides more than 60% of the anti-roof crush protection during roll over incidents. In front end collisions, the windshield also provides the passenger airbag with back-stop support. A compromised windshield poses a serious safety risk if it's not repairs or replaced.

3. How long does windshield replacement take? Ultimately the amount of time it takes to replace your windshield depends on the make and model of your car. Some vehicles have more complex windshield that could take several hours to install. Remember that it's not something you want to rush. A quality job that seals properly takes time so avoid people that guarantee speedy installations.

4. Are windshield replacements warranties? A good installer will warranty the work they do. You should expect to get a limited 1 year warranty that covers defects in installation such as water and air leaks around the seal. Some shops even offer limited lifetime warranties as long as you own the car. In these cases, if there's an installation problem just schedule to have your windshield services and take it back to them. Don't be shy about asking for a warranty, you need to know your investment is covered.

5. How soon is my car drivable? There's really no standard time across the board because it depends on the vehicle as well as the type of urethane adhesive used to install the windshield. Most urethane adhesives rely on temperature to cure properly so the time required is variable. The range is vast, from 3 hours to 24 hours before a vehicle meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and is considered to be save for road driving.

An important thing to note is that you also should wait at least 24 hours before washing your vehicle. It's tempting to do right after leaving the shop because you're likely to have dirt and finger prints on your vehicle but it needs to wait. Otherwise the high pressure from car washes can blow the new seal on your windshield. Shop around for the best installer to suit your needs and follow the installer and manufacturer recommendations once the windshield is installed.

Finding an Auto Repair Shop For Engine Repair

You may have a reputable automotive shop that you regularly use for your vehicle maintenance such as tire replacement, oil changes and other routine issues. If you don't have a regular shop, you can ask your family, friends and coworkers whom they trust. Recommendations from these people should be held in high esteem, because a local auto shop that has earned the trust of your family and friends will work hard to make you a customer for life.

If you have significant engine problems with your car, you'll first want to check your warranty and see if the manufacturer covers the issue. When you bring your car to the shop, you'll need to ask if the automotive shop guarantees their work in case the issue is not fixed properly or if it comes back without warning. The automotive shop manager will be able to discuss the policies of the shop and offer you a guarantee on the work to be performed on your vehicle.

Be sure to inquire about the type of parts the automotive shop will use on your car. Are they brand name, quality products or cheap, generic products? Make sure they are using only high quality parts. Either way, you will be charged labor fees, so be certain the parts they replace on your vehicle are brand name, quality products.

Depending on your specific engine problem, you may need to leave your vehicle at the auto shop for an extended period of time. Make sure you arrange for transportation. Your favorite auto repair shop may be located near a bus line or taxi stand. Also, your insurance company may offer a rental car. Some repair shops will offer a courtesy vehicle or provide a drop off/pick up service so you can work during the day and get your vehicle back in the evening.

Before any work is performed on your vehicle, be sure to ask for an estimate. Agree on a price and ask your mechanic to specifically outline what work is to be done. A good auto shop will alert you of any additional issues that come up during the repair that was not initially noticed. Therefore, you won't be surprised when you see charges for parts and labor on work that you never authorized.

It is important that you trust your automotive technicians. You are leaving your car in their hands and are counting on the fact that they are experienced, trained and can properly fix the issue at hand. If you do not already have a good relationship with a local automotive shop, ask your friends and neighbors who they trust. Begin using a popular auto shop for your routine maintenance issues, and you'll begin to develop a trusting relationship with them and get to know the mechanics on a more personal level. Then you can feel good about leaving your car in their hands when larger engine issues arise.

Dents and Insurance

In my long driving career, I've gotten more dents and dings than I care to admit to, and have destroyed at least a few bumpers and side panels. And though for many of these accidents, I've been able to use simple dent removal tools to help restore the cars to their original beauty, in many cases, the damage is too extensive. That's the part that really bothers me. Bumpers and side panels are getting easier and easier to destroy it seems, taking only slight contact to shatter them. In the minds of car designers, how does that make sense?

In my mind, bumpers and side panels are being designed these days as just another way for the auto industry to make buck from the hard working backs of honest people. Bumpers can often cost over a thousand dollars and can even be integrated into the side panels of a car, making it so that if the bumper needs replacing, the whole part needs replacing, sometimes costing over a thousand dollars. What kind of sense does that make?

As a child, I loved going to the bumper car derby, smashing into friends in head-on collisions of 15 miles per hour. But even at that rate, when you combine 15 miles an hour with another vehicle moving 15 mph in the other direction, you get a combined impact of 30 mph. That's pretty impressive for a bumper car to take that kind of abuse day in and day out without so much as a scratch. As for my car, an impact of 5 mph against a stationary object is enough to send me off to the body shop with a bill of $500.

When did cars become so much about beauty and so little about transportation? Why is the average ding and dent so easy to get and so expensive and difficult to get rid of? Just knowing that there are cars out there on the road that cost upwards of a hundred thousand dollars makes me shudder. What happens if, God forbid, I ever have an accident with one? My insurance would never be the same, increasing by who known what. If I had things my way, cars would be designed much more like bumper cars and much less like luxury vehicles, and dent removal tools would be standard issue at the dealership for those just in case impacts that actually do cause damage to the body of the car.

I just hate the fact that the auto industry has taken advantage of the fact that insurance pays for all the little accidents out there, giving them the ability to charge huge premiums for car parts that are easily damaged. It puts a person in a tight spot when an accident with a friend happens and you don't want to cause their insurance to go up for three years. But you also don't love the idea of driving a car around that has a broken tail light and a cracked bumper. Cars are so fragile these days. So many of the outer components are made from cheap plastic and breakable fiberglass. If everything were made of metal, it would be so much easier to use simple dent removal tools and pull the dents and dings out of the vehicle. As it now stands, entire panels and bumpers often need to be replaced. Will it ever change? I think not. I just wanted to rant for a little bit.

Traditional Auto Body Vs Paintless Dent Removal

It is time to take a closer look at the real advantages of dent removal over traditional methods.

1. Better Investment

If you choose to opt with traditional auto body repair techniques, the chances are extremely high that the body shop will use body filler and additional auto paint during the process. This will make the repair much more detectable to human eye as well as diminish your cars overall resale value. Paintless dent removal is based upon much gentler techniques that will leave your car looking like new, without diminishing the overall value of your car.

2. Lowest Cost

Body filler and repainting will always mean that traditional auto body repair will always be more expensive than the paintless alternative. Additionally, traditional auto body repair is much more labor intensive, which often makes paintless dent repair up to 75% less expensive.

3. Better for the Environment

Paintless dent repair does not require the use of auto paint or other environmentally detrimental products. Traditional auto body repair relies on chemicals throughout the process including: base-coats, clear-coats, body filler, paint thinner, and the auto paint itself. Dent repair restores the metal to its original shape without the need for any of the additional materials. Throughout the entire process, car dent removal releases zero harmful chemicals.

4. Best Time Savings

Traditional auto body repair is a very time consuming option, whereas car dent repair can take as little as 30 minutes for small jobs. Traditional methods may mean that your car is left in the shop for several days, which should never happen when choosing the paintless option.

When it comes to fixing that nasty dent on your vehicle, traditional methods are rarely the best choice. While there are some types of dents that auto dent removal will not be able to fix, it should always be the preferred option. Paintless dent removal is more effective at maintaining your vehicles value, it is the least expensive option, it is much better for the environment, as well as saving you a lot of time.

Timing Belt Replacement Cost - Learn it Here Today!

When thinking about auto repair, the costs differ according to the parts of the vehicle involved. And when talking about the timing belt maintenance, mechanics and dealers suggest replacement and modification for every 50,000 to 60,000 miles for most vehicles, while there are some manufacturers that put replacement forward for each 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Timing belt replacement cost varies depending on the type of vehicle, the cost of labor in your area and additional concerns that may arise once your mechanic get face to face with your car.

The cost of replacement can range between $250 and $750. These prices vary considerably on the make and model of your car as well as the labor price of the mechanic. To inhibit sticker shock, it's most important to discuss cost during first consultation with your mechanic. You should also ask for a definite labor cost. Request for written estimate of timing belt replacement cost and make sure that the estimate is just right for your needs. A skilled, experienced, and highly regarded mechanic can provide you with quote and time frame depending on the make of your car.

In any form of auto repair, the labor or mechanic decides the cost of the repair. Changing a timing belt can lasts for two hours up to six hours. The time frame hugely depends on the skills and expertise of the mechanic, the model of your car, and any other problems. In areas where the cost of living is quite low, the labor price can be as low as $40 per hour. On the other hand, high-end dealerships in urban areas range from $110 to $150 per hour.

The Replacement cost may also include fees for additional maintenance work performed when doing the job. Read the owner's manual of your car to find out if your vehicle requires additional car part replacement when changing the timing belt.

Does Car Insurance Cover a Cracked Windshield?

Every car owner has experienced that one rock flying up and cracking the windshield. What starts as a small star soon explodes into a massive crack across the entire front glass. Depending on your policy and insurance company many times that crack can be fixed for free or replaced for a small charge. If you are wondering if your windshield is covered on your car insurance policy I will explain what is and is not covered and what questions to ask your agent in case you need to file a claim.

In order to have any glass coverage on your auto insurance the policy must include comprehensive coverage which covers most losses beyond running into something. Some car insurance companies offer specific coverage for glass in your car but more on that later. Let's first look at comprehensive coverage and how it will apply to a broken windshield.

If you have comprehensive coverage on your car insurance policy it will cover a replacement of the entire glass subject to your deductible. Most comprehensive deductibles are between $250 and $750 so if the glass only costs $200 to replace it doesn't make sense to make a claim. Most insurance companies will not raise your rates due to filing a comprehensive claim since it is not due to an accident. Be sure you know what your comprehensive deductible is and in most situations it makes sense to have a lower deductible like $250. Comprehensive coverage is usually a small portion of the overall cost of your policy so a lower deductible won't raise your rates by much. Keep the collision deductible above $500 because this is where the majority of your premium is charged especially on a newer vehicle.

In the event your insurance company offers glass coverage as a separate item it is something I would add. This type of coverage is usually $10-40 annually and usually has a $100 deductible for any glass in the car. If you need to replace the windshield or any other glass in the car it is only $100 out of pocket to you. The other nice feature of the glass coverage is free crack repairs. The glass company will fill the crack with epoxy so it will prevent further cracking and hope to extend the life of the glass.

Auto Repair Pricing - Three Tips to Address Pricing Concerns of Auto Repairs and How to Solve Them

When I talk with auto repair shop owners, they often ask me about how to handle concerns or objections to the cost of repairs. Here's how you can do it easily.

Agree with your Customer: To start, your job as an auto repair shop owner is to have your customer get to KNOW, TRUST and LIKE you. You can start by agreeing with your customer! That's right! Agree with them.

Under no circumstances should you ever argue with your customer. It's not ever going to end in your favor.

What do you say?: Before you say anything, remember that your best chance is to speak to their emotions. You may say something like, "Mr. Jones, I understand exactly how you feel. It's a lot of money".

Isolate the Concern: When you're faced with a concern about pricing of the work you've quoted, the best thing you can do (for everyone concerned) is to ISOLATE the issue. What you're trying to do is to find out if it's really the price that's the problem, or something else.

How do you Isolate your Customers Concern?: Simply ask them, but you have to ask them in the proper way. You could say, "Mr. Jones, other than the price of the work I quoted, is there anything else holding you back from having this work completed today?"

Basically, what you're doing is 'hunting' to see if there's any other objections. Of course, if the response is about 'something else besides the price', then you really know that price isn't the concern.

At that time, you should have an answer as to what the real problem is. In order to get the job, be sure you frame your next question properly. You could say "Mr. Jones, if I can <resolve that problem>, are you prepared to proceed?"

In essence you've put them into a corner. If they answer "yes", you've got the job. If it's still a "No", then you still haven't got to the real concern.

On the other hand, if it's all about the price, your only option would be to offer substitute parts (possibly no-name or lesser quality) that would let you reduce the overall cost.

'Reframe' the Concern and put it into Perspective: In other words, have your customer look at the quote from another viewpoint.

If you look up the work 'Perspective' in the dictionary, you find the following:

per•spec•tive [per sp矇ktiv]

particular evaluation of something: a particular evaluation of a situation or facts, especially from one person's point of view Speak to their emotions:

You've got another opportunity to speak to your customers emotions. Remember, people purchase on emotions and justify with logic AFTER.

How do you put the concern in a different Prospective?: As an auto shop owner, you have a couple of strategies you can use. First of all, look at the mileage and value of the vehicle you're working on. As an example, a $500 repair on a car that's worth at least $6-7,000 dollars isn't a lot of money, considering the value of the vehicle and the pride of owning a well running car.

You can also appeal to safety concerns. "When you consider the safety of you and your family, it's really not a lot".

Although I don't like to stress this last tip, (because some people go way overboard), but if the repair involves systems that could lead to a breakdown, you may want to gently remind the customer about that. You could say "I understand your concerns, but let me ask you this. What's the cost of your safety and avoiding an unexpected roadside breakdown?" You may even follow that up reminding them that "Do you know, the average tow bill is $_____, and you wouldn't want that added expense, would you?"

In some cases, you have to remember that for some car owners, the cost of the proper auto repair is out of reach. But following this strategy is a great way to get to the bottom of it and help your customer make the right decision.

Along with that, I strongly suggest that you format a written quote system for all of your repair estimates. Do it the right way and you will only compete against yourself. That is, offering a "good - better - best" repair estimate, you let the customer choose the price he wants to pay and demonstrate that you understand their particular situation.

Windshield Chip Repair Prevents Replacement

Most drivers know the experience of speeding down the highway when suddenly a small rock or road debris crashes into your windshield. Once you recover from the shock, you realize there is a small chip in your windshield. The chip does not look bad and is not impeding your vision in any way so you decide just to leave it alone. Unfortunately, that chip can quickly spread into a crack, requiring you to replace your entire windshield.

Chips on your windshield can happen very easily. Rocks and debris from the road or from other vehicles can crash into your windshield, causing small chips or cracks to occur. Even when parked, your windshield can be at risk from hail, falling branches, and other falling debris causing small chips or cracks. Sometimes these chips are so small, they may be difficult to see.

Just like routine maintenance and inspection are needed for your brakes, engine, and tires, your windshield should be thoroughly inspected for small chips and cracks. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your windshield thoroughly each time you re-fuel. Pay special attention to edges, as they are most affected by driving stress. If left untreated, those small chips can turn into a large crack, impeding your vision and compromising your safety.

If left untreated, a small chip can quickly spread into a crack. Changes in temperature, rough driving conditions, and windshield stress can cause a small chip to spread into a large crack. Once it a large crack forms, your windshield will no longer be able to repaired, it will need to be replaced.

Another reason to fix a crack or ding in the windshield right away is for safety reasons. The windshield is more than just a "shield" from wind and road dirt, it's an important safety element of the car. It helps keep you and your passengers in the car in a front impact accident, and keeps your car's airbag in the optimum position so it can function as designed. If your windshield is weakened due to damage, it could be dangerous to you and your passengers in the event of an accident. Also, damaged glass may cause optical impediments when driving, particularly at night, which is a significant safety hazard.

The good news is that a professional auto glass company can easily repair windshield glass chips, preventing them from spreading and saving you from having to replace your windshield. It is a simple repair. First, all of the air is removed from the chip. Next, the chip is filled with resin. The resin is then cured with ultraviolet light. Once it sets, the chip will barely be visible and the integrity of the windshield is restored. The whole process usually will not take longer than 30 minutes to an hour.

Depending on the size of the chip, most damage can be easily repaired without windshield replacement. Plus, if you have comprehensive insurance coverage, your out of pocket expenses will be minimal. Most insurance companies would rather repair your windshield than pay for a replacement later. As a courtesy to you, some auto glass installation companies will even offer to submit the necessary paperwork to handle your claim.

Auto Windshields - Car Windshield Replacement and Repair

It is a fact that auto windshields tend to crack or break and then need replacement and repair. This happens for several reasons. For example, a chip of gravel can hit the windshield while the car is moving. Accidents can obviously cause the windshield to break completely. Extreme cold weather conditions are also often the culprit. Many times, car windshields from becoming victims of acts of vandalism or careless driving of others. The point is that the windshields of cars are made of tempered glass, glass, but it is still susceptible to damage.

The problem is that the replacement of windshields of cars is a costly affair. A viable alternative is to repair the windshield, which most insurance companies now in place to accept the replacement. In fact, even waive the deductible of the client that he or she must choose to repair rather than replace the windshields of cars. This makes financial sense for insurance companies too, because save millions each year in this way. By repairing rather than replacing a car windscreen, windscreen keeps the original integrity of the seal from the factory. In short, everyone wins. Windshield repair is a high-margin specialty, so it is a huge industry.

Windshields of cars damaged in varying degrees. Often, car owners ignore a small crack caused by a flying stone or minor collision. This may be an error, since small cracks tend to spread on a car windshield, especially in cold weather. This is because car manufacturers do windshields of tempered glass under intense pressure. The glass density is very high and this causes cracks to widen gradually. In other words, even small cracks in the windshield a car can be a serious matter.

Fortunately, it is now possible to repair cracks and scratches seriously crazed windshield of cars. Automobile windshield repair solutions include a revolutionary new PRISM (pre-injection resin suspension) technology and various techniques involving the injection of resin into the cracks with or without vacuum. The problem with all these methods of repairing windshield is the car owner who can not use the car shortly after the repairs. No adhesive that allows the car owner to drive immediately after the repair process exists to date. You must fill out the cure to be effective. This process can take as little as an hour or even a day, depending on the compounds used.

Of course, a car windshield may not be salvageable and repair is not a viable option then. In such cases, the car owner has no alternative but to replace the windshield. Auto safety regulations require that a motor vehicle has a windshield that does not affect the driver's ability to navigate effectively.

It is possible to carry out car windscreen replacement and repair without the participation of professionals in the process. There are many types of automobile windshield replacement and repair kits available on the market today. Windshield repair kits usually feature composite resin that acts as filler, the resin filling nozzles into the crack, holding structures to stabilize the affected area and the curing lamps to accelerate the setting process. Such car windscreen replacement and repair do-it-yourself solutions include instructional videos that guide the car owner on the proper use of the kit.

Why Auto Body Shops Give Estimates

When it comes time to taking care of our things to ensure a long lasting life span, we can sometimes compromise quality for quantity. Our wallets suffer as the quality of work diminishes from jobs that ought to have the best attention to detail. It is important to make sure you shop around before deciding on a specific shop. Remember- quality, quality, quality. It's important when receiving your estimates to not jump the gun when you receive, what you consider, your first 'low ball.' Here are a couple of sure ways to avoid this:

#1: Make sure the company has state-of-the-art equipment.
Nothing is worse than going somewhere and receiving poor quality because the machinery was out of date. With all of the repair shops that are around these days there is no reason why someone should bring their vehicle to an out dated shop.

#2: Paint is important!
A bad paint job is a bad paint job, avoid these by using the color matching technique to ensure clear fluid paint jobs. Always look for companies that offer lifetime guarantees.

This is the perfect example of the saying, "what you don't know what hurt you." In this case, it will hurt you. Auto Body shops give estimates to accommodate this process. The mechanics know just as well as you do that you are, at some level, shopping around for the best deal. Having to be at a body shop is typically not a pleasant experience, choosing an Auto Body shop that helps alleviate some of these stresses is what every car owner deserves.

Don't Get Caught in a Windshield Replacement Scam!

It is estimated that there are an average of 80,000 windshields replaced every month in Arizona! But just how many of these really needed to be replaced??

We have all been approached by persistent auto glass salespeople representing Phoenix auto glass companies at our local car washes:

• "I can repair those chips in your windshield within minutes," they say.


• "We just need your insurance policy information and you will be on your way."

However, repairing minor chips and cracks is one thing; total replacement of your windshield when it's not necessary costs everyone, including you, additional money and possibly even jail time!

In some states, insurance companies are required by law to waive the deductible for damaged or broken windshields in an effort to encourage vehicle owners to make the repairs. However, some companies are using that loophole to convince consumers they can have new windshields for free since they are fully covered.

The dishonest glass companies, also referred to as "glass claims harvesters," will rent parking lot space from Arizona auto repair facilities, car washes or gas stations to seek business through unnecessary auto glass replacements. Once the car owner agrees to the deal, the harvester will subcontract the replacement with another, less expensive glass company and turn a profit from your insurance claim. Some harvesters will impersonate the insured and obtain multiple glass claims.

The following are several windshield replacement scams you should be aware of:

• Replacing expensive windshields which only have a small crack or chip that could easily be fixed. They might also charge insurers to replace several chips when only one chip was repaired. Some con artists charge your policy for several windshield replacements without you knowing it!


• The crooks might convince motorists to participate by offering freebies such as steaks, movie tickets or car washes. In addition, they might offer cash rebates or inflate the repair bill to cover the deductible.

Oftentimes, these "fly-by-night" operators are poorly trained and work out of pickup trucks in parking lots, quickly disappearing after the shoddy repairs. You might see them approach people at car washes, gas stations or conveniences stores. In addition to the safety risk from cheap substandard glass or shoddy workmanship, you could face increased premiums or possible loss of coverage due to multiple hits on your policy.

And the worst possible scenario? You could face jail and fines for insurance fraud!

Everyone else's premiums also increase in the long run due to fraud losses passed onto honest policyholders.

According to Doug Ashbridge, Director of Special Investigations for Farmers Insurance Group, property casualty insurance fraud costs consumers $20 billion each year and is probably present in as many as 10 percent of claims filed.

If you are approached by a salesperson insisting on an unnecessary windshield replacement, just say no! Report the incident to your state insurance department. If you need repairs, contact your insurance agent for reputable glass companies in your area.

When to Replace Oxygen Sensors in Your Car or Truck

What is an oxygen sensor? In the simplest form, it is a sensor that measures oxygen. In a more complex form it accomplishes much more than this. Its role is to provide the engine computer in your car or truck with accurate measurements of the levels of oxygen in the exhaust. Accurate data is important, as this data is used to determine the perfect oxygen to fuel for your vehicle's engine. Without accurate data, a failing O2 sensor can have a negative impact on your vehicle's overall performance.

So this begs the question of when to replace an oxygen sensor in your car or truck. Should you wait until the check engine light turns on, or should you take preventative measures and change the part before it completely fails. How you handle this situation is probably going to reflect your personality. If you are a procrastinator, you will more than likely just wait until the part fails and the check engine light comes on. If you tend to fix things ahead of time to save yourself future grief, you will more than likely replace the part before it fails.

Although both options are feasible, taking preventative measures should win out in the end. Most car manufacturers suggest replacing your vehicle's oxygen sensor between 60,000 and 90,000 miles in order to keep your vehicle's engine operating at optimal performance. This is because a failing oxygen sensor will give inaccurate readings to your engine's computer, which will create an improper air to fuel mixture. Having a fuel to air mixture that doesn't meet your vehicle requirements will lead to excess fuel consumption, as it will create a mixture that has too little or too much oxygen it it. It also leads to excess wear and tear as your vehicle's exhaust system is forced to work under harder circumstances. Also, your vehicle will release higher levels of pollutants into the environment as a result of an improper mixture.

Replacing an O2 sensor is considered a simple automotive repair job for intermediate mechanics. If you aren't certain on how to change an oxygen sensor, just bring your vehicle to your nearest mechanic and they will be able to replace it for you. Now that you know some of the negative side effects of a failing oxygen sensor, you can make your own informed decision on when to replace the oxygen sensor in your car or truck.

Watch Out For Unnecessary Auto Repair Costs

Unnecessary auto repairs are one of the easiest ways in which average consumers lose money every year. If you are not knowledgeable about auto service, you might think you have no way of knowing whether your mechanic is burdening you with unnecessary costs or not. However, if you know what to watch out for, meaning if you keep in mind the most common ways in which sketchy auto shops try to make extra money, you can get better at avoiding the pitfalls.  

Unnecessary Part Replacement

Unethical mechanics will sometimes try to tell you that a certain part of the car needs replacing, when in fact it does not. If an unexpected part replacement is suggested, ask the mechanic to show you the exact part, and mark it in some way so you can check back on it. Request that he give you the old part back, to make sure that it was indeed even replaced. You can then, if you want, take it to a third party so they can check if the part was even broken.

Unauthorized Work

Telling your mechanic to "do whatever is necessary" is like giving him blank check to charge you as much as he wants. Granted, most mechanics will be honest with you, but the point is to not take the risk. Always ask for a repair estimate, or work order, that lists every repair that you have authorized. Double check the itemized list before signing, so that you know exactly how much you are being charged for what. If it ends up being more that the original estimate, you'll know to ask about it. 

Too-Low-Priced Deals

Auto service shops that advertise incredibly low-priced services are called "loss leaders". Meaning that they know they will lose money on the low-priced service, but they do so in hopes that when customers come in for said deal, they [the mechanics] can sell the customers on additional repair that the customer did not know were needed. Always ask the mechanic to explain why a repair is needed. If you're not convinced, go to another shop and ask for a second opinion.

Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnoses are not always intentional. Mechanics make honest mistakes just like everyone else. So when you get a diagnosis, make sure that it matches up with the symptoms you've been seeing in your car, and never be afraid to ask questions to make sure that you understand everything that is being said and done by the auto service shop.

Getting Compensation For Auto Body Collision Repair

If you are involved in a car accident you may be concerned with recovering compensation for your property damage. In addition your out of pocket expenses can include bills for medication, doctors and physical therapy. Aside from the medical issues which you might be facing you will likely have to get your vehicle repaired. There may be problems with the engine, or components which need repaired or replaced, but it is likely that your biggest cost will be the repair and body work on your car. Getting into a collision can cause serious damage to the body of your car, which may cost you thousands of dollars. Speak to a car accident attorney immediately following any car accident to determine your potential avenues of reimbursement for these expense.

In many cases, the insurance company will pay for the damage to your car, assuming that the other driver was insured. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes the insurance company denies your claim and says that they are not liable, either because the accident was not covered under their policy or an issue of fault. An insurance claims adjustor will likely want to look at your car and then talk to you, either on the phone or in person. When the insurance company denies your claim, it can be frustrating because you are stuck with the repair bills.

However, this is not the only case where you will be forced to pay the repair bills yourself. If the other driver is uninsured, then you may get stuck with the bills for the body work and repairs done to your vehicle. This can run into thousands of dollars, or even a brand new car if your vehicle is completely totaled. Although having liability insurance on your vehicle is required by law in California, there may as many as fifteen percent of motorists on California highways that are not carrying any sort of insurance.

If this is the case, then you must pursue action, either against the insurance company, if they have in fact denied your claim unfairly. You may have to prove that the accident was in fact, covered by their policy or you may have to prove fault on the car accident itself. This can be a daunting and difficult task. If the motorist was insured, or if the insurance company was correct in their assessment, you may have to pursue action against the motorist themselves, to recover the money that you now have to pay to fix your car, and the medical bills you face.

An attorney can help you with this task, making the process less scary and more apt to succeed. An attorney can advise you on how to proceed, and who to name in your suit, as well as on settlement amounts and whether or not you will have to go to court. A car accident attorney will have experience in car accident claims and personal injury cases. and southern The car accident attorney can help you to prepare and present a case if you have been injured or had your vehicle damaged in an accident, so that you are not stuck with all the bills.

Locating A TV Repair Shop

Let's say you're in the middle of watching your all time favorite TV show, with perfectly cooked Hot Pocket in hand and then the unthinkable happens; your TV stops working for some unknown reason. After cursing the vengeance of the Gods, what are you to do? You intelligently recall that your TV channels over 30000 Volts at one time or another, so you opt to find a TV repair service. Now what?

Using the provided services from Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Sony and Philips:

Well, you are in luck. Most major TV manufacturers have service centers both online and in their stores. For example, Panasonic's Support can be found on the Panasonic website. It is very useful to have your TV's model number, which can usually be found in the manual if you are lucky enough to have kept it, or somewhere on the TV, probably near the company logo or on the back by the electronics. Oftentimes, it will be written on a sticker which contains a vast amount of other important information. Sony also offers a similar service to that of Panasonic on their support website.

The flip side of that coin is for companies like Mitsubishi TV, Panasonic TV and Philips TV. Instead of offering their own service center, they make public various repair techniques on websites such as eserviceinfo.com. Again, knowing your television's model number is a great help in discovering what you need to do.

When it comes to finding a TV repairman of your own, keep in mind that you will want to pay an actual, trained professional. Your neighbor's son's cousin might be really good with electronics, but unless he's certified and insured through your TV's company and/or warranty, he will not be obligated to buy you a new TV when yours inadvertently bursts into flames. We recommend starting with the good old-fashioned yellow pages, or at least the internet counterpart website of yellow pages. Also, to make certain you come in contact with a reputable repairman, Angie's List However, Angie's List does charge for access to its user-based information and recommendations.

Things to remember:

When getting your television fixed, it's important to remember that sometimes, a professional is required. When choosing the right TV repair professional for you, make sure that they are certified, and that their service is within the parameters of compliance set in your TV's warranty. If you're outside the warranty time frame, just ensure that they are endorsed through the company which made your TV in the first place.

How To Keep Your Car Repair Costs To A Minimum

Like death and taxes, car repairs are an unavoidable part of life and with the costs involved in keeping a car in good shape increasing all the time it is important to know the best strategies for avoiding unnecessary expenses. Some of these savings can be made simply by following maintenance schedules for your vehicle but more importantly knowing how to deal with the repairer when it comes time for a visit to the repair shop.

From being a self employed motor mechanic for the last six years of my life and hearing tales of woe from vehicle owners on an almost daily basis I can comfortably say that there are more dishonest shop owners in our industry than we would care to admit. Unfortunately when the consumer is totally uneducated to the way these repair shops work they are often taken for a ride, simply because they have no choice but to believe what they are being told by the repairer.

The key here is knowledge. Arming yourself even with the most basic information about how your vehicle works and what to look for in a repairer has the potential to save you thousands of dollars on your repair bills. Many repairers will take your lack of knowledge about your motor vehicle as an invitation to fill your head with stories of additional repairs need to be carried out and why these repairs need to be done immediately when this simply may not be the case.

Quite a few workshops also employ tactics that encourage you to take your car in for a discount service that may seem great value on the outside but often times it is merely a way to get your car in their workshop so they can up sell you on a host of other 'necessary' repairs. Don't get me wrong, I am all for making a living from the service you provide but how can you be sure that what you are being told is the absolute truth?

Sure there are honest mechanics and workshop owners out there and if you have been lucky enough to find one I suggest you treat them like gold. If they value your business and their reputation I am sure they will treat you just as good however if you have not been so lucky now is the time to educate yourself and start saving your hard earned dollars instead of lining the pockets of these not-so-honest operators.

Great Auto Mechanic Shops To Trust

When your car breaks down, of course, you would not want just another auto mechanic to lay his hands on your car. Like an investment, all car maintenance that you would like to get done with your car should be done by the expert hands of a trusted auto mechanic. From left to right, there are a lot of auto mechanic shops sprouting here and there which make you more confused on where to entrust your car.

Although there are a lot of car repair shops in almost every area, there are still quite a few that you can trust a hundred percent. There are essential things to consider that will help you on how to look for credible auto mechanic shops:

1. A reliable auto repair shop should be complete with all the necessary equipment for car repair. It is better if the shops have computer technology. This way, diagnosing the car problem only takes a minute, sometimes even less, than deal with guessing game. At least with the help of modern technology, the problem is immediately seen, resulting to proper action that also immediately takes place.

2. Honesty of the mechanics still has a major impact on choosing the best auto mechanic shops. At times, there is no need for fixing, yet, just to acquire more profit some mechanics offer to fix unnecessary things. As a result you will be billed more than what is actually needed. You can ask around for mechanics who work honestly. This is not a toxic thing to do since words of good deeds especially with honesty spread around too often and in no time at all, you will get to meet that honest mechanic.

3. Mechanics should be knowledgeable about their skills. Your car's performance depends on the hands of these mechanics. So it is better to scout some certifications posted around the auto mechanic shops to satisfy your curiosity as to where the mechanics gather their skills and experience. When the mechanics repair your car, it is also note-worthy to ask him once in a while how he gained such knowledge in automobiles. Simple hints will give you a clue about his knowledge on automobiles.

4. Pricing should be fair and square. A great repair deserves an equal pricing but not exuberant or over pricing. Doing your own research and compare the repair estimates from one shop to another will help you seek a great mechanic shop especially if you are tight in a budget.

Auto mechanic shops that have complete equipment, with honest and knowledgeable mechanics, and offers satisfactory pricing on their service seem to be perfect. It is definitely a suitable haven for your car. Once you find the right kind of shop, you will definitely feel good entrusting your car.