DIY Tips For Repairing Rusted Spots on Your Car

There are various reasons why you should repair the rusted area in your car. If you are going to sell your car and there are rusted area on your car that is definitely going to drive the re-sale price down. And also, if you are going to use the car for long time you want to look nice. You want your car to look equally attractive as your friends. So, when you decide the remove rusted area in your car, you can always take it to the auto repair shop, but you can save money by doing such simple things yourself. You can follow following steps to give your a great look in no time.

First step is to prepare the rusted area or surface to apply new paint. You can take the help of electric hand held grinder. You should first make the surface as smooth as possible and free of defects not only to accept the paint but also for cosmetic purpose so that people will not see any sign of repairs on it. Use hand held grinders to level the surface and use it until you can feel the rust in the surface. You will remove as much as the rust as possible by doing this. You should be careful while applying a grinder, because if you overdo it might remove a lot of material in no time. Make sure to check frequently whether you've removed enough material or not.

The second step is to apply prime and paint. Prepare the area to be painted with blue painter's tape which is widely available. It is best because it does not leave any sticky residue after removing it. You should avoid applying thick coats of body primer. Apply three thin coats of body primer and leave it overnight to make sure that the primer can fully work. You can then make the surface where primer is applied smooth by lightly hand sanding the area with the use of a piece of 150 grit paper. Now, the surface is ready to accept paints. Use thin coats of paint three or four times, depending upon how finished it looks. One thing you should do is, take some times off after applying each coat.

Now it will take overnight for the paint to cure. Now give a good wash to finish the repair to finish the task. These easy steps saves good amount of money. If you already have a grinder, it should not take more than 25$ at all.

Why You Need a Vehicle Service Contract

Cars have become an integral part of everyone's life. In spite of their hectic business schedules, some people even spare time to enjoy a long ride in their favorite car. As cars are used for a wide range of purposes such as transportation and picking groceries, they can often cease working all of a sudden. Depending on the severity of defects, the repair costs may vary a from few hundred to thousands of dollars.

It is estimated that an average car owner spends around $600 per year on annual maintenance and repair costs. Repair costs might also vary based on the cost of the cars parts. Some domestic cars annual cost might be around $600 due to its less expensive parts, while cars such as an Audi A4 require thousands of dollars for repair as their parts are more expensive. It might be difficult for the average homeowner to take care of their cars repair expenses. So, choosing a vehicle service contract (VSC) is one of the best options to avoid these expensive repair bills.

Currently, you can find a variety of contracts to cover parts, services and mileage. Vehicle service contracts are specifically designed to protect your valuable asset by maintaining it in a good working condition and taking care of its expensive repair bills. A vehicle service contract not just protects your vehicle but protects you from the high costs of unexpected vehicle repairs.

Some important benefits of vehicle service contracts are listed below:

Affordable:

One of the impressive features of VSC is that you can find a contract with payment options that will fit your budget. If you are unable to choose the best contract yourself, then you can get assistance from the customer support professionals about the available payment options for your budget.

Variety of contracts:

Nowadays, you can find a variety of contracts such as bumper to bumper coverage, all according to your cars needs. If your car has an expensive part, you can get coverage for such parts and can secure your investment in an effective way.

Protects your vehicle:

A car is a priceless asset; you need to find the best VSC that protects your car for a long time.

Enhances your vehicles lifespan:

Securing your cars valuable parts through contracts will help you to get assistance immediately to fix the defects which might in turn boost your cars performance.

Your vehicles value increases:

If you are planning to sell your car with a VSC, its value will be greater than a comparable model without one.

How to Find a Reliable Car Mechanic

The difference between amounts certain mechanics will charge you for repairs can be in the thousands of dollars. You'll certainly want to find someone who can help you keep your car in good condition without charging you a fortune to do so. Though you might have dozens of auto mechanics around, it should be easy to find a dependable shop if you take the right approach.

Localization is key to finding a good mechanic. For instance, if you're looking for a Delaware, Ohio mechanic, your first course of action should be to speak to friends and family members directly around the Delaware area, particularly those with some knowledge of auto maintenance and repair. Try to find a personal recommendation, and don't simply ask who someone uses, ask why they use them as well. Find out about specific experiences that they've had with the mechanic.

You can also use the Internet to improve your chances of finding someone reliable. Type a phrase like "Delaware, Ohio mechanic" into Google or an auto repair guide site. Look for personal reviews of the different mechanics in your area to compare price and reliability. Again, you want to focus on personal experience, not general reviews. You ideally want to find out how a mechanic deals with tough situations, and see how the business reacts when a mechanic makes a mistake. Recognize that it's nearly impossible for working mechanics to avoid a negative review or two, but if a particular auto mechanic has an overall poor rating, steer clear.

Talking to your auto mechanic is important. Even if you know nothing about cars, it's easy to figure out whether a certain shop knows their business - they should be able to clearly explain what's wrong with your car (or if nothing's wrong with it, how and why you can keep it maintained). You should never feel like you're in the dark.

By doing your homework, you should be able to find an auto mechanic that you will be able to depend on for years to come.

Tips on Becoming a Top Garage Services Provider

Nowadays almost everyone wants a car. Where there is a need, there is an opportunity. The opportunity here is that one day, the car may get spoilt and garage services will be needed. It will be a good idea to invest in a garage business. The good thing about this business is that it is not a must that you look for a commercial location to service cars when you are just beginning. I am pleased to say that you can easily start a garage business from your home and your first clients can be people who are from your residential area. Just because it is relatively easy to start, it does not mean that everyone is a genius. We all need tips and instructions to succeed in life and here are a few tips for you to succeed in the garage services business.

First, employ competent mechanics and technicians for your auto repair shop. It will be beneficial if you are technically adroit in giving engine repair and maintenance repair to your customers. The thing about cars is that they are always being manufactured. For this reason, it is inevitable that you will be servicing more cars than you can handle. You will therefore need extra skilled hands so that you can satisfactorily provide the various garage services that your repair shop offers. The people you hire should be proficient in services such as blue printing and engine mapping, auto body repair, car modification, manual repairs and automotive repair. Do not just hire anyone who has graduated. Do not get me wrong. It is good to hire graduates but make sure you also hire staff that is experienced in this business because you will surely need their expertise so as to satisfy and keep your customers.

Next, select a place that is accessible for a garage business. There is a possibility that you may be providing the best garage services out there and you may even be having the best equipment. However, if you do not have the capacity of choosing a good location for your garage, your investments and efforts will be obsolete. This is because everyone wants to be part of a business that is easily accessible. Customers want repair shops that are close to their houses or which will only require them to drive for a short period. It is also a good idea to increase the visibility of your business by advertising your small business in places that are frequented by car owners.

Finally, to be successful you need to establish a reputable car service and repair business. Many garage businesses are unsuccessful because they portray themselves as not being trustworthy and dependable garage service providers. It is therefore a good idea to offer warranties to your clients so that they can be assured they can always come back in case they encounter problems with your services and repairs. After all, it is always a good thing to do commendable work for your clients because they are the ones who will advertise your garage business to their friend and family who may be looking for recommendations for dependable garage shops. In short, always do a good job.

DIY Windshield Repair VS Windshield Replacement

We've all had it happen; a truck kicks up a stone or a construction vehicle drops a loose rock sending it full speed directly for your windshield leaving a star or bull's-eye crack in your previously perfect glass. Now you have three options. One, you can decline to do anything about the new damage to your vehicle, two, you can use a DIY Glass Repair Kit, or three, you can spend a lot of time, money, and aggravation to replace the entire windshield.

First, the last thing you want to do is nothing. If left unaddressed what was once a small crack can spread and become a real safety issue. Very often bullseye damage will 'spider' across the rest of your windshield rendering it unsafe and becoming an obstruction to the drivers view. This is more common on cars that experience extreme temperature changes, such as rinsing your car with very cold water on a hot summer day; this stresses the glass and can cause the damage to spread.

So what is it that you should do to fix the damage? If you have one of the more common types of damage, and chances are you do, a glass repair kit can be a real life saver and a money saver too! Damage is typically round or star shaped and may even have a black or silver color to it. Mostly you'll hear cracks referred to as bulls eye, combination, half bulls eyes, beeswing, or star fractures. These types of cracks can easily be fixed with a glass repair kit. How does DIY Glass Repair Work? Well the best kind of kit is one that puts no pressure on the surface of the glass. Not all kits work this way so be sure to look into how the product works before investing. Even small cracks are fragile; you don't want to press on something that's already fractured, you'll definitely regret it. Avoid any kit that uses screw threats, suction cups or complicated bridge assemblies. What you want to do is get a kit that will use a vacuum system to draw all the air out of the damaged area allowing the resin to easily flow into the crack and fill the damaged area entirely.

Your only alternative to this is to replace the entire windshield. Now this is a very costly and time consuming option so only do it if you absolutely must. A new windshield wont come cheap, it can cost as much as $300, and in some cases more. It will be time consuming and you will be without your vehicle for a few days, and very often once the new windshield is set, the vehicle can't be driven for a day or two.
On side note, choosing to replace your windshield when you don't necessarily have to wont just cost YOU money, it also takes a toll on the environment. Approximately 11-12 million windshields are replaced a year in the US alone. As much as 39% of those windshields have a simple crack that could be easily fixed with a repair kit.

So when that stone comes flying down the highway and lands right in the middle of your windshield, be sure to wisely choose your course of action. Save yourself the aggravation and simply repair it yourself. Just make sure you get yourself the right kit!

Collision Repair: How Much Damage Is Too Much?

From minor bumps to high-speed crashes, most car accidents result in damages that require the expertise of an auto body repair shop. Collision repair isn't always simple. Even minor accidents can cause auto body damage that is expensive and timely to repair. The type of impact and the style of the damaged car both play a role in determining how much damage has occurred.

Determining a Total Loss

Many drivers think that there's no hope if their insurance company says that their car is 'totaled.' A car that is totaled is not necessarily unrepairable though. The extent of the damage has very little to do with whether or not an insurance company declares a total loss. Instead, the decision is based on the costof the collision repair in comparison to the fair market value of the car. If repairing the auto body damage will cost more than the car is worth, it is said to be totaled.

Structural Damage

Correcting damage to a vehicle's frame is one of the most expensive types of collision repair, but undoing structural damage is not impossible. A knowledgeable auto body repair shop will generally inspect a wrecked vehicle for misalignment before anything else. If the car doesn't meet the exact measurements of the manufacturer, advanced machines are used to pull the frame back to its original specifications.

Rear End Collisions

Depending on the speed, a car that is rear ended can suffer quite a bit of damage. Structural damage is not uncommon after a powerful rear collision. The amount of damage will also depend on the car. In a recent IIHS study, a low-speed rear end collision in a compact car with a poorly designed bumper can result in more than $3,500 in auto body damage. On the other hand, a car with dent-resistant plastic body panels can often be repaired for less than $200.

Frontal Impacts

Front-end collision repair is often more extensive than rear end damage. At higher speeds, a head-on collision can cause damage to the front bumper, the hood, the windshield, and the quarter panels. If the damage is minor, the auto body technician may choose to repair the panels rather than replace them. Unless the parts are pre-painted, the body shop will also have to match the paint color and re-spray each panel before reassembling the car.

Rollovers

A car that rolls over generally has much more auto body damage than a vehicle involved in a frontal or rear end crash. Damage to the frame is usually inevitable in a rollover. There is a possibility that every piece of the car has suffered at least minor body damage. The decision to repair a vehicle that has rolled over should be made carefully. Extensive damage like this could require additional mechanical work, as well.

Whether auto body damage appears to be major or minor, an experienced collision repair specialist should examine the car for unseen damage. Accidents can cause cosmetic damage that is fairly easy to repair, as well as frame damage or mechanical troubles that are much more costly to fix. Almost any type of collision damage can be repaired, but sometimes it is more cost efficient to scrap the vehicle.

Auto Repair, Maintenance and Ownership

If you drive a car that's European, auto repair is a bit different for you than for someone who owns an American vehicle. Some of the most popular cars driven in the U.S. are of European origin. Many of these foreign brands are well-made, elegant and sporty. Some examples are the BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Volvo and Mercedes. Some popular American manufacturers are Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge. Japanese manufacturers also produce quality vehicles such as Nissan, Toyota and Honda. There is a variety of different factors that go into the decision of what kind of car to purchase.

Some of the features sought by consumers around the globe include gas mileage, reliability, performance, safety and resale value. It is also important to learn which makes and models break down more often and what it costs to repair them.

Gas mileage: With the planet's dwindling resources and rising costs of gasoline, many consumers are intent on driving a vehicle that gets as many miles per gallon as possible. Hybrids and smart cars have been developed for just this reason. Many of the large gas hogs of yesteryear are being traded in for greener models that go further on less. Some European cars, such as Volvo, have much stricter emissions standards than those made in the US.

Reliability: Everyone wants a vehicle that is reliable on the road. A car that is low-maintenance and durable enough to bump along dirt roads or travel uphill in the snow. It's also desirable to have a vehicle that starts up with minimal fuss and takes off down the street on a dime.

Performance: A vehicle with high performance capabilities is a must have. No one wants to drive an old bomb that barely makes it up inclines. High performance is a good thing, but it can come at the cost of increased gas consumption and emissions.

Safety: All cars have safety features built in, no matter how tiny and vulnerable they may appear externally. Sturdy externals that will hold up in a crash, air bags, strong metallic surfaces, tough bumpers and shatter proof windshields are all important safety features. Be sure to check out the specific features of the car you are considering, as these requirements vary by country.

Resale value: Some cars depreciate in value faster than others. That's because they will likely need to be repaired more often or wear out more quickly. An online perusal of used car prices on a site such as Kelly Blue Book will give a person the stats they are looking for in terms of resale value. Owning a car that holds its value is like saving money in the bank, even if the initial cost outlay is a little higher.

Repair costs: The pricier the vehicle, the more it will probably cost to repair it. That's because the parts needed for replacement are more expensive, just like the car, and many foreign parts are difficult to obtain in the US. Before purchasing a European, Japanese, or American car, it's a wise idea to check out repair costs, records and probabilities.

If a person is looking for a mechanic to restore, replace or perform maintenance on their automobile, it is important to shop around. Word-of-mouth referrals are one way to find someone competent and skilled. If a person owns a foreign car, he or she may want to take it to a shop that specializes in the make and model of their vehicle. Some shops only work on imports or American cars, while others cover the spectrum. Find out by asking around, looking on the Internet and calling the shops directly. A bit of research will turn up the appropriate American, Japanese, or European car repair shop and get you back on your way in style.

DIY Auto Repair Diagnostics

Do you have a car? Well, owning a car comes with a lot of responsibility. In order to keep your car in smooth running condition, you must run a car check up periodically, or have this done at a service center.

However, while you might not want to perform the extra labor for repairing your car when you can get it repaired by a mechanic, you must be aware that the job is done only in exchange for money. So you have to pay for the charges you incur in that case.

The case is not so simple either, since your car may breakdown in the middle of the road, therefore in order to bring your car to the repair shop, you may have to spring for transportation costs as well. However, if you can negate the factor of convenience, you could end up repairing your car for much less. But for this you may benefit if you review the following tips.

First, you need access to the internet. Plus see if you can find a manual of automotive repairs complete with details on the car diagnosis, if possible, from the public library or online.

To know all about auto repair diagnostic, consider going through the following steps below.

Diagnosis Descriptions

o Automobile repair manuals may be subdivided into make and model. But there are also other types of classifications, e.g. those pertaining to the area of the vehicle affected such as engine intake, brakes, cooling, start, etc. However, whatever specific problem you might have had, your instructions should come from a car diagnosis manual and a start problem manual. Only then can you get the required repair information.

o Vehicle Noise: Unless you have prior guidance, you will find it well-nigh impossible to diagnose what problem your vehicle has. For example, you might find it even more difficult to ascertain which part of your car the noise is coming from. Is it just another purr that your ca makes, or is it a signal to some great problem lying before you? Thankfully, now you can seek help with the guidance needed through certain websites that offer you the required information and help to diagnose which part of your car has gone out of order. You just have to express the nature of the noise on words, e.g. "whine noise" or "shifter knocks" or "driveline vibration" and the like. The next step is to find the diagnosis manual, the make and the specific problem involved in this case.

Repair manuals are specialized manuals dealing with car disorder. These are very detailed and offer you detailed directions how to go about it in order to fix the problem. These are divided as per the area of the vehicle that is going to be repaired, e.g. body repair, suspension fix, exhaust repair, etc. Also follow the same steps: add the specific problem to a general car repair manual and hit search. You will find your desired materials at one click.

When you have followed the instructions, repeated the steps over and over again as needed in the future, and you can gain some experience which you can then apply to further repairs. Vehicle maintenance and your car make is peculiar to the specific model you own, but there are certain general issues which are common to all cars, such as oil changing, air filter changing, fluid maintenance, engine wash, etc. Search for the kind of maintenance you need added to the phrase "car maintenance manual" and get the desired results. Add your make and model too in order to narrow down your search and get the most relevant materials.

Auto Mechanics - Changing Careers

When you are thinking about changing careers becoming an auto mechanic is not the first thing that comes to mind, but maybe it should be the second or third thing you should think about. The auto repair business has become a very lucrative field to work in, the jobs are stable and the pay is good.

What Does it Takes to Become an Auto Mechanic?

Auto mechanics these days need education because of changes the cars themselves have gone through. Cars have become much more complex in the last several years, you have on board computers, much more electronics integrated into vehicles and diagnostics. So, employers are requiring a more stringent education for people entering the field.

It helps if you are somewhat analytical. Repairing cars these days can be like solving a puzzle, a few pieces fit, but the puzzle itself doesn't work. Well, repairing a car can be just as perplexing. You can spend hours upon hours tracing down a problem before all the pieces fit together and the problem is finally fixed. This is where your analytical skills come into play and your patience too.

Physical Requirements

Of course there is lifting of parts and other things required as an auto technician, but this is not the major factor.

The complaint heard most often is what occurs in the long run. The constant stretching over the hood, the prolonged bending, the stress put on your hand muscles over a long period of time, these physical requirements takes its toll on these body parts.

It is when you have put in 20 or 30 years as an auto mechanic that you feel the effects of these physical attributes. These are the physical complaints that we hear from employees, it's not the lifting 50 pounds here and there that is a problem (this is a physical requirement) it's what happens in the long run, but knowing this means you can practice prevention too.

Career Options for Auto Technicians

When you enter the field of auto repair you are not restricted to just repairing cars, Oh no - you have options.

The knowledge and experience you get as an auto mechanic can be used in other areas of the automotive field. The most natural move that an auto mechanic can make is to learn the job of a service writer. Combining the knowledge of repairing cars and customer service is the perfect blend for a service writer.

This is just an example of other career options an auto mechanic has, especially if there is concern about the physical ailments talked about above.

Do I Need A Local Auto Repair Shop?

Having a local auto repair shop do the work on your vehicle is probably going to save you money in the long run. If a person has a shop they know and like, they can feel secure when taking their vehicle in for emergency repairs. By using someone they have worked with in the past there should be no surprises when receiving the final bill.

To find one, start out by asking everyone you know who they recommend you get your vehicle serviced by. Friends, family, and neighbors will be happy to tell you who they go to or who they have not been happy with. Ask them if the service was satisfactory or just okay. Also ask them if the bill was the amount agreed to or was it more?

After choosing who you want to take your automobile to, check with the better business bureau first. You can find out if there has been a complaint against the shop and if so, what the complaint was about. Information is also there to let you know if it was satisfaction or if it still unresolved.

The locally owned shops usually provide great personal service and make repairs quickly and correctly. They are your neighbors in the community and they understand the value of customer referrals. In addition, their mechanics are knowledgeable and skilled with all the different makes of models of automobiles. They do not specialize in only one brand, they can fix all of them.

Most will have an ASE Certificate, (Automotive Service Excellence). If it is not displayed, ask if they have it. It is a test given concerning auto repair issues. Also ask how many years of experience they have and how long have they been in business.

Do not wait for something major to fix before visiting a shop. Find one before you are in a crisis. Go and get regular maintenance work done and find out how you like the shop. Do you like the people and were they courteous? Did they do what they said they were going to do and did they charge what they said it would cost?

Using a local auto repair shop is going to also save you money in other ways. If they are local, you will not have a commute to get there. They are close by so if it a major repair, you can always check in on the status of the repair. In addition, because they are local, you know they want your repeat business and your referrals so they will do their best to satisfy you as a customer.

Five Yoga Moves to Protect Your Back When Working As A Mechanic

In the past two decades, technology has revolutionized the auto repair industry. To become a mechanic these days, it's not enough to be good at tinkering with motors and other mechanical parts. One must also have an appreciation for the electronics that govern today's anti-lock brakes, fuel injection systems, etc. In fact, what used to be called mechanic training isn't even called that any more. It is now called auto technician training instead.

To become a mechanic today is not simply to learn how to be a skilled manual labourer. Auto technician training also introduces students to the computer systems that now form the core of their work.

But this change in the nature of the work does not protect today's graduates of auto technician training from such "traditional" repetitive stress injuries as:

• carpal tunnel syndrome


• neck strain


• lower back pain

Protect yourself from these potentially debilitating injuries by taking preventative measures while still enrolled in auto technician training. Yoga is one solution. Many community colleges offer yoga classes on campus. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn a skill that may help you as your progress in your dream to become a mechanic. In particular, try to learn the following five poses.

1. Marjariasana (Cat Pose)- This pose is great for beginners. Knees and hands on the floor. Round your spine towards the ceiling and then drop your belly towards the floor. Repeat. A gentle way to release tension and increase mobility. Stretches the muscles all along your back. A good pose to practice after a day perched over an open hood in the auto technician training classroom.

2. Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose) - This pose is also perfect for beginners. No previous yoga experience required! Simply lie down on your back, with your legs up a wall. This restorative pose has many benefits. It relaxes the nervous system and releases tension in the lower back after a long day of auto technician training.

3. Balasana (Child's Pose)- This pose is accessible to beginners and can help prevent or relieve back pain, especially in the lower back. After a day at auto mechanic training school learning how to become a mechanic, simply find a quiet place at home, kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels and reach your head to the floor and tuck your arms by your feet.

4. Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Salute)- Stand tall. Inhale your arms up above your head. Breathe. This pose has an advantage in that you can practice it on the floor of your auto mechanic training. Your fellow students may tease you, but hey...

5. Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)- Stand upright. Bend your knees. Drop your head and arms forward. This pose calms the brain - good to know, in case auto mechanic training gets too overwhelming. And it helps encourage flexibility in the spine.

The nature of mechanic work may be changing, but many of the traditional aches and pains are still a threat of the work. Lessen the risk by taking another "traditional" approach: yoga. The community college where you take auto technician training may offer classes. Don't miss this opportunity to discover a great skill.

Things to Consider Before Taking Your Car To A Collision Repair Shop

The majority of the people around the globe drive a vehicle of some sort, whether it have 2 wheels or 4, or be economical or a "gas pig". Because of the amount of vehicles on the roads these days, the number of accidents has risen significantly. Therefore, its highly recommended that you find a collision repair shop that you trust.

When it comes to collision repair, finding the right body shop isn't just a "nice to have", its a necessity. However, to select the best one, there is a lot that needs to be considered. Here are some things you should consider before taking your car to a collision repair shop:

Read reviews of the business, or be referred by a satisfied customer
One choice that you have when it comes to finding a suitable body shop in your city is to ask friends, family, neighbors, or even co-workers. Word of mouth advertising is the best form of advertising that a collision repair shop can get.

In order to have good word of mouth advertising, the body shop needs to provide excellent customer service, be dependable, and do a thorough job. If you consider recommendations before choosing a body shop, you can be fairly certain that you are making the right choice. If a friend or family member was satisfied by a collision repair service they received from a body shop in their city, then you can be relatively sure that you are being referred to a reliable business.

The other option that you have to read online reviews of the business. Google Places is one resource that you can use to check a business' reputation. If there are any negative reviews or complaints, make sure that you verify them by checking with the Better Business Bureau. Sometimes, and its an unfortunate part of having sites to openly share your experiences, people will post fake negative reviews about competitors in their industry.

Contact your insurance company
Take the time to speak with your insurance company about which collision repair shops they recommend. Although insurance companies have a list of recommended suppliers, you are by no means under any obligation to take your vehicle to one of their recommended suppliers.

Some insurance companies even say that if you don't use one of their recommended suppliers that they won't warranty the repair work. This is a lie. Insurance companies don't warranty the work, the auto body repair shops warranty the work. Therefore, before picking a business to do your repair work, ask what their warranty is.

Ask if they are environmentally friendly
There are a lot of traits that help people determine if a body shop is truly worth selecting. One of the most important is whether the business is committed to working in a manner that is environmentally friendly. For example, paint booths should have a vacuum exhaust system to catch paint particles and dispose of them correctly. They should not be exhausting them into the outside air.

Ask if they offer any services beyond collision repair
Whether you need to get the damage from a collision repaired, or you want to fix a minor dent or scratch, or need some rust removed, the business you choose should offer a wide variety of repair services. Ask if they only work on cars, or if they also repair motorbikes, buses, and other types of vehicles.

Ask if they do windshield repairs. Find out if the business also does antique car restoration. The reason you ask all of these questions is because the more diverse a business' skill-sets are, the more experience they have, and typically the better job they'll do.

Evaluate the facilities and staff
The presence of trained staff at a collision repair facility is also necessary because only then will you be able to receive quality service, and get your vehicle repaired correctly. At the same time, the facility you select should also be equipped with the necessary tools.

The business you choose should be capable of repairing any collision damage on site that a vehicle might have suffered. With today's technology advancing so quickly, and more electronics being added into vehicles every day, it is essential that the business you select have the electronic components to interface with on-board computers.

Being in an accident can be physically and emotionally stressful. To alleviate some of that stress, find a trustworthy, dependable collision repair shop before being involved in an accident. That way, when the time comes, and it inevitably will, inform the tow truck driver where you want your car delivered. You will be more prepared, and less stressed.

Repairing Car Dents

Car dents appear on a vehicle's body due to various reasons. One probable cause is a minor road accident. Or it may also be due to a hailing storm that just so happens to pass by when your car's parked in the open. Whichever the cause, car dents can nevertheless be unsightly.

When the car dent is too big or complicated, then it would wise and practical to take your vehicle to the auto body shop with appropriate tools that can be used to repair your car properly. However if the dent on the car seems like something you can repair on your own, then settle on a more practical DIY car dent repairs.

Assessing the damage is the first step you need to do, you need to closely look at the car dent. If the metal has ripples and bumps that make the metal surface appear to have been folded, no question, your car needs a professional repairer. Otherwise, the car dent repair may just be done your own. There are common dents, which have not managed to crease and crumple the metal, that can be repaired just by tapping or popping it out back. For heavily dented car metal surfaces, a smart and logical solution is to just buy a panel replacement for that car section where the dent is.

For DIY car dent repairs, one useful tool that you will need is a common plunger. Just make sure the plunger is clean, though. Place the plunger on top of the car dent. In a considerably slow action and in steady manner, depress the plunger as you use it in the bathroom until no air remains. Make sure too that the plunger's rubber head and the panel have a tight seal in between them. Then holding the plunger with a strong and heavy grip, steadily pull the plunger to pop out the dent from the metal surface of the car. For a more effective and tighter sealing, a useful tip is to slightly wet the rubber head of the household plunger. This process is ideal for use in side panels of the car where tapping procedure may be hard to accomplish.

The car's hood, roof, trunk or parts of the vehicle which are flat and large are ideally applied with the tapping method of repairing car dents. The required materials for this methods are rubber mallet, block of wood and piece of old towel. The size of the car dent and the area you will be working with determine the measurement of the wood block you will use. However, the most preferable and convenient block of wood to use is one which you can grip comfortably with just a single hand.

The towel is to be wrapped around the wooden block. The block of wood obviously have edges or possibly some rough surfaces that will likely scratch the paint or the interior lining of the car. This is the reason why the block is wrapped with the old towel. Lay the block gently on the opposite side of the metal panel where the dent is then start tapping with the use of rubber mallet. Perform the task slowly and make sure you hit the wood on its flat surface and not on its edges.

Proper Car Care Includes Rust Protection and Treatment

The average car now costs over $30,000. The average monthly car payment is now $430 and the loans are near 6 years long on average. With taxes, fees and insurance thrown in the average monthly cost of a car is similar to that of a mortgage payment. Being that we are spending this much on our cars we need to take a renewed look at car care and treatments that will increase the longevity of these major investments. Sadly, many people neglect their cars and there is little, if any, car care done. Rust can happen anywhere in America (it isn't just a problem for northerners). It is also easy to prevent with a little proper car care.

Everyone hates rust and complains about it, but when you look at their cars, little if anything is ever done to stop or prevent it. As evidenced in clinical studies and research by the big 3 auto manufacturers, its not a question of if. It's a question of when. Whether it is salt and snow, salty ocean air, industrial fallout and acid rain, rock chips, road debris, etc... There are many different elements of nature that exist everywhere and will do harm and weaken your car's finish and allow rust to start. The metal on your car is mostly protected by a very thin coating of paint and primer. Rust is caused by a loss in electrons of the metal and can occur as soon as the thin paint coating is jeopardized.

First, to prevent rust it is best to protect your paint. Proper car care will not only protect, but strengthen the paint. A good cleaning and waxing regimen once every two months has been proven by AAA to greatly reduce the occurrence of rust. Regular cleaning will remove contaminates that will weaken or even etch into the paint. Car wax or car polish will create a stronger, slippery surface that will be more impervious to the elements and help seal out moisture which can start the rusting process. To properly apply car wax or car polish you apply it one section at a time and allow to dry to a haze. Then you buff it off and repeat 2 - 3 times for maximum protection. People who regularly use car wax or car polish in their car care routine have a much lower incidence of rust.

If you notice a scratch or chip, nick that goes through the paint make sure you treat it properly. Get matching touchup paint by using the paint code inside your door jamb (most auto parts stores and dealers will have this matching paint or can get it for you). You will only need a small 1 oz. bottle for most scratches. Use a toothpick so you get the paint exactly where it is needed, in the scratch, nick, etc... not all around it. Completely cover any exposed metal. Then apply a clear coat touch up paint for best protection. This will seal out moisture and prevent rust from occurring. If you are in a jam you can always use clear nail polish to cover the exposed metal.

If rust has set in, then the required car care and treatment gets more complex. The rust spot must be sanded down and exposed. It is then treated with a anti-rust which will chemically react with the rust changing its chemical and electrostatic properties. Then it must be sanded down, primered and then painted. With the complexity of today's automotive paints it is probably best to leave complex rust and car care to the professionals (most auto body shops will be glad to do this for you and you will have guaranteed excellent and long lasting results). As it is said, "You get what you pay for." A cheap repair is just that, and for the same matter, so is cheap or non-existent car care.

Rust can be prevented and your cars finish maintained with a little proper car care and the use of car wax or polish.

Auto Repair Advertising - Has Word Of Mouth Made Your Shop A Pretty Girl?

From the interviews I've conducted with hundreds of shop owners most auto repair advertising happens via word of mouth. In several other articles I've covered many reasons for this such as incorrect advertising strategies, miscommunication and general distaste for the concept.

"Word of mouth is the only thing that works". - 90% of facility owners.

What is truly odd about this statement is how right they are, but how little they understand about why.

Auto Repair Advertising - Breaking Down Word Of Mouth

My favorite resource wikipedia.org says: Word of mouth, is a reference to the passing of information by verbal means, especially recommendations, but also general information, in an informal, person-to-person manner. Word of mouth is typically considered a face-to-face spoken communication, although phone conversations, text messages sent via SMS and web dialogue, such as online profile pages, blog posts, message board threads, instant messages and emails are often now included in the definition of word of mouth. There is some overlap in meaning between word of mouth and the following: rumor, gossip, innuendo, and hearsay; however word of mouth is more commonly used to describe positive information being spread rather than negative, although this is not always the case.

If you were to look this up on your own and scroll down the page you'd see a section called "Successful examples" and "Unsuccessful examples" of WoM.

Successful examples include the usage of scarcity. Unsuccessful examples highlight massive over abundance.

Auto Repair Advertising - WoM's Backlash

Much of what is being done for auto repair advertising today has generated a massive glut of negative WoM. The reason for this is overabundance of locations and the sweeping belief by the general population all shops offer the same service and will rob them blind at every opportunity.

Not only large auto repair facilities have been hurt by this. Smaller shops, who have relied for years on positive WoM are suffering quietly from what I have been informed is sometimes called "the pretty girl syndrome".

Auto Repair Advertising - Are You A Pretty Girl?

When shop has the pretty girl syndrome it means they've hit saturation point in their business and are now "booked solid for 3 solid weeks." While this may appear no the surface to be a good thing, it is actually working against them in a very massive way.

I had the opportunity to speak with a shop owner in San Jose, CA who was suffering from this exact problem. During our conversation he reported being "booked at least 3-4 weeks in advance, but in the past few months business had dropped off significantly."

The problem could be external, it could be market conditions, it could be any number of things, but the bottom line is this: people are still having car trouble and they're taking them to a shop somewhere. It would seem that the mouths have stopped talking.

Or maybe they haven't. What can happen when a shop falls prey to the pretty girl syndrome is WoM has changed from 'You have to use Ace Auto Repair' to 'You know, don't call them, they're usually booked too far out. They're really good, but why don't you try this other place, they seem to get us in faster.'

After all, why would you want to approach the prettiest girl in the place when you already know you won't be getting the date?

8 Windshield Replacement Tips For Saving Money

Windshield replacement is something many people must deal with at some point in their life. Even a simple rock hitting the windshield can result in a chip. Unfortunately, this can cost $300-1000, depending on the kind of vehicle and the variety of windshield chosen. However, it is very possible to save money with this process, and possibly even avoid it altogether. Here are 8 tips that work:

Get it fixed-not replaced

Obviously simply repairing the problem is much easier than windshield replacement. If you merely have a tiny chip, you might not have to get it fixed at all.

Act fast

Generally chips grow into cracks very quickly. Not taking the vehicle in to get it repaired immediately can result in a crack that is too wide to repair.

Do it yourself

If the damage is not too bad, than fixing the problem yourself can save you money. You can find DIY kits in a number of automotive stores. Just make sure that the kit you use does not exert pressure on the glass surface. The ones that use screw threats and suction tend to put too much pressure on the windshield, which can result in further damage.

Instead, go with one that utilizes a vacuum method for sucking the air away from the chip. This enables the resin to simply flow inside the crack, thus fixing the chip quickly and easily. If this does not work, then you will probably have to replace the windshield. Obviously this can be expensive, but there are still ways to save money:

Check to see if your insurance covers windshield replacement

In many instances insurance can pay for a windshield replacement. If you plan on only having a repair done at a body shop, still check your coverage, because fixes are often included as well. Of course, you will usually have to pay for at least some of it out of your own pocket because of the deductible. However, at least you save on a lot of the costs.

Read reviews about the company

Most people do not consider the windshield an important component of the vehicle, but it is. This is because the glass must be able to stand up to the elements without getting damaged. A poorly installed glass can result in significant damage to the car itself, such as leaking.

In the event of an accident, the windshield could give out entirely. Therefore, it is important that you look over reviews about any glass company you are considering. This will help you make sure the firm you are considering does quality work.

Ask lots of questions

When a glass company gives you a quote, make sure that you find out what this covers. Some firms use after market windshields as opposed to original manufacturer models (OEM), which are usually not as high quality. This could save you money upfront, but it could also result in you paying more down the road.

Read the fine print on the warranty.

Lifetime warranties are great-if they are comprehensive. Unfortunately, a lot of companies with long warranties include so many stipulations that there really are no conditions where you would actually be able to use them. When damage occurs, you are going to have to pay for another replacement. For this reason, be sure to read the tiny print thoroughly before you sign anything.

Get multiple price quotes

Make sure you compare the price of a number of different companies before choosing. While cost should not be the main factor, it is still a consideration.

Conclusion

Windshield replacement can be very pricey. However, when you follow these guidelines, you will save money and get a quality job at the same time. Use these tips, and you will either avoid windshield replacement altogether, or save significant money if you must get it done.

How to Find a Trusted Auto Repair Shop?

An automobile may be the second greatest investment many people make following a house, so it only makes sense that you would want to be able to have confidence in the individual who is going to be repairing your car. Despite the fact that you may well possibly think locating a professional auto repair shop and an exceptional mechanic may perhaps be a challenging process, it truly isn't in the event you recognize what things to look for. Why don't we get you on the correct track.

The most effective strategy to ensure you find out a good auto repair shop is to start searching for that top quality shop before your car or truck needs repair. When you wait until your car or truck is broken you occur to be forced to rush, and you will not have time to look for that good quality shop.

It truly is very much superior to establish a relationship with a shop together with the mechanic long before your car break. In reality, usual maintenance will cut down the risk of your car breaking down and it really is the perfect approach to decide on whether you like what a shop has to supply. Start off off little using a uncomplicated oil change and go from there.

Start from word of mouth whenever you commence out your research. Pay attention to what other people have to say about various auto repair shops. Consult close friends, family, and co-workers whom they might suggest. You may also want to consider validating through the BBB to discover out who may have had issues against them.

In no way base your option on just the cost. A reduced selling cost doesn't usually mean a much more affordable bill. Several shops use a flat fee rate charge with regard to each and every and each and every repair no matter how extensive it requires them. Other shops charge for each and every single hour that it will take, which could possibly perform out much more if the mechanic runs into a snag. A greater price is not going to typically indicate very much better service, but a lesser rate does not typically imply poor service. Do your investigation.

The moment you really feel you've found the correct auto repair shop, snoop in close proximity. Determine that the shop appears well organized and well put together.

You'll find also some questions worth asking:

1. Do they've up to date equipment

2. Which kind of diagnostic equipment do they use

3. Can they offer referrals from other clients

4. Do they focus on a selected kind of car or truck

5. Are their technicians licensed

6. What brand name of parts do they use

7. What is actually their policy associated with client satisfaction

8. What specifically is their guarantee

9. What form of payments will they accept

10. What exactly is their labor fee

It is vital that you maintain a record while using maintenance and car repairs you have had completed to your car. Make sure you save the particular records in regards to your car repair in a safe location.

Utilizing these factors to obtain a trusted auto repair shop won't be that challenging.

Facts About Windshield Replacement And Chip Repair

A small crack or damage to vehicle glass is one of those things that many people put off for another day. Getting a windshield replacement for a small crack seems unnecessary, but a repair may be required to save future problems. Often, individuals let a small crack grow over time without realizing it, until there is no way to repair it.

A repair is the most economical choice for your auto glass needs. When a small rock or debris hits your windshield and causes a crack, you should seek repair immediately. Often, insurance will pay for rock chip repair, because they know it is cheaper than replacing the entire windshield in the future. Repairs can only be made if you call soon after the chip occurred. Overtime, the crack will expand and the simple repair cannot be completed. At that time, a more expensive windshield replacement will need to take place.

If you miss the boat on a repair, you do not need to worry. Any auto glass shop can replace the glass at an affordable price. Often, insurance will cover windshield replacement with only a small deductible owed by you. All major insurance companies operating will pay for replacement through the company. Most companies also usually offer $50 cash back on replacements. But remember this, chip repairs are MUCH cheaper than a full replacement.

If you do have your windshield replaced by most windshield replacement shops offer lifetime repair for rock chips. However, the same holds true for these repairs. If you do not contact the shop as soon as the chip occurs, they may not be able to repair it.

When you need a repair or windshield replacement, do not let your busy schedule or financial issues get in the way. Acting immediately can save you money on more expensive replacements and repairs. Call to schedule service a repair today if you have any cracks in your windshield, because it will result in a windshield replacement in the future if you delay. Free mobile service means they can come to your home, office or anywhere in the area to fix or replace your windshield. Some shops also offer competitive pricing for those without insurance to cover the cost of repair and replacement.

Do not put off repairs to your windshield because they seem unnecessary. A small bump in your ride tomorrow could crack the glass further, costing you more money and time. Cracks in the view line of the driver are also unsafe and could contribute to an accident. Paying for a small repair now can save you having to replace an entire expensive windshield later.

Getting Back On The Road: Auto Damage And Repairs

Nothing is scarier than a car accident. Our first instincts are to make sure that no bodily harm has occurred to ourselves, our passengers, or passengers in any other cars involved. Once the initial shock is over, only then do we begin to assess the extent of the damage to the cars. While this is by far not even close to as important as having or causing an injury, it can lead to many unpleasant situations and costly repairs.

People need their cars, and they need to get back on the road as quickly as possible in order to get on with their work and their lives. After a collision or any other vehicular damage, the mechanic is the key player who can make the difference to a speedy and cost-effective way back into the driver's seat of your car. Never mind the old cliche of a sleazy and greasy worker who only sees dollar signs where you see damage. A real, honest and talented auto repair expert provides an extremely important service.

Auto collision estimation and repairs combines two major professional skills. On one hand, they are inspecting and assessing the damage to a vehicle propose to the client the various fixes and solutions available to them. This helps people work within their time frame and budgets so that they can best decide what course of action to take. Training to become an estimator will often involve:

• Identification of vehicle body construction


• Identification of vehicle body damage


• Content of a proper collision estimate


• Preparing professional estimates


• Use of industry software to produce computer estimates

The other important aspect of this career is the actual auto repairs. Once the client has agreed to a specific course of action suggested by the auto body collision estimator process, then the corresponding mechanical work is required. The advantages of knowing both skills is that it allows the mechanic a better relationship with the client and a smoother process for giving them the exact kind of service they require. If you want to know how to become a mechanic, take the time to research some institutions which offer theoretical and hands-on training.

Car accidents should never be seen solely as business opportunities nor things that happen as "just part of the job." Although working with accidents, collisions and damages everyday may seem like difficult way to feel comfortable making a living, this is simply not the case. The damage estimator and mechanic proposes solutions and fixes problems. They worry about the small details so you don't have to. Their job is to make you feel safe getting back on the road in a timely and affordable manner, so you can feel safe and drive on.

Brakes Shake - Machine the Rotors Or Replace Them?

If the steering wheel shakes when the brakes are applied, the brake rotors most likely have excessive side to side run-out or they are more commonly known as being warped. Auto techs call this brake shake or brake pulsation. Brake rotors being warped is not a dangerous condition by itself, but it can be very annoying. The brake pads may not need to be replaced, but if they are more than half worn it would be a good time to consider replacing them. Most shops will check brakes for free, it's best to make sure they use a micrometer to measure the thickness of the rotors to verify if they are legally able to be machined (also known as turned or resurfaced).

Replace or not. Many vehicles today have very thin rotors from the factory, depending on the thickness there may not be an option to machine them. Many replacement rotors are low priced depending on the make and model of the vehicle. It may be a good idea to replace the rotors if the replacements are priced well, instead of machining the old ones. After machining the rotors they are physically thinner and more susceptible to being warped again. In the past I owned a vehicle that warped rotors frequently. I would machine them myself using the brake lathe at the shop I worked at and the rotors would warp again in about six months time. I finally bought some aftermarket replacement rotors for around $30 a piece and put those on and never had anymore pulsation problems.

Types of Brake Lathes. There are two types of brake lathes. There is the conventional brake lathe that the technician uses to machine the rotor off the vehicle. And there is the on the car brake lathe used to machine the brake rotor on the vehicle. The best way to machine brake rotors is on the car. The reason is because of the possibility of other components having run-out. When rotors are machined on the car, any run-out in the wheel hub is compensated for. The result is a much better cut that allows the rotor to be machined much more precisely. Rotors that are machined on the vehicle have less re-occurrences of being warped as quickly when compared to rotors being machined off the vehicle. So if possible consumers should opt to find a repair shop that has the capability to machine rotors on the car if needed. Auto repair shops that have on the car brake lathes realize the importance of having the right auto tools and equipment to service their customer's cars properly.

Chipped And Cracked Auto Glass And Its Repair Or Replacement

Almost everyone knows the story. You are driving down the highway at a quick clip and the truck in front of you throws up a small stone, so small you do not even see it. Unfortunately you hear the frightening sound of it hitting your windshield and see the frustrating crack, or chip, it left behind. If you are like most people, you immediately wonder if you can get away with letting it go. You might be able to, but you can never be sure, and if you are wrong, you may end up paying for a full windshield replacement sometime down the road.

The general rule regarding chips and cracks and their repair is that if it encompasses an area smaller than a dollar bill, you may be able to let it slide, but there are risks involved. The windshield of a car endures a lot of stress and pressure with everyday driving. Extreme temperatures and the contrast between the warm and cold inside and outside of the car, the force of the wind against the glass while you are driving, and even the unavoidable bumps and rough road you will encounter put stress on your windshield. With these pressures, chips can become cracks, cracks can grow, and windshields can even rupture while you are driving. It is much wiser to tend to smaller chips and cracks before they become a threat to your safety.

There are windshield repair kits on the market, but it is best to look for a business that specializes in auto glass repair. They have the expertise and equipment to do an efficient and long lasting job. They can thoroughly remove any dirt and moisture in the damaged area, fill it with a specialized resin, harden it, and then polish the repair so it is barely discernible.

The question of insurance coverage for a crack or chip depends on several factors. It may be covered, but if you have a deductible, you may end up footing the bill. For example, if your deductible is $100, and the repair cost is $50, the cost will never reach the point where insurance coverage is included. There are some states that do not allow deductibles with windshield repair/replacement, and they rule that insurance companies must foot the entire bill, regardless. As windshield damage is usually not the fault of the driver, it will be considered a "no-fault" claim, and your premiums should not go up.

There are several considerations for choosing the glass company to repair your windshield. Avoid dealerships because they generally charge more for their repairs and parts. Make sure your choice is a licensed company that specializes in auto glass, and check with the better business bureau for their rating. A chip or crack repair is not an exorbitant expense, and will buy peace of mind and safety for you and your loved ones.

Do You Know What Your Body Shop Business Is Worth?

Many smaller body shop owners have asked, "How do I appraise my body shop?" In the last month I have been asked to do two appraisals on body shops. The first appraisal was to assist in partnership dissolution; the second appraisal was for marriage dissolution. (That is what the attorneys call a divorce.) Would you like to know how to appraise the value of a body shop business?

Before we begin, I would like to make one comment. Whenever a CPA has done an appraisal of a body shop, I find that their opinion of value is much greater than the actual value the market place will pay. This is not because the CPA's do not know what they are doing because they do; it is just that the market place places a much higher risk on buying a body shop than the accountants do. The following is an excerpt from one of those appraisals.

THE THREE WAYS TO APPRAISE A BUSINESS

1. The ASSET VALUATION METHOD. This method is basically used when a body shop does less than $400,000 a year in gross income and the seller is making wages, but no real profit above what he would be paid if working for another. On this size business, a buyer is willing to pay for the assets of the business but little or nothing for goodwill. The equipment is usually worth between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on how many frame machines the business owns and how nice a spray booth the business owns.

I have seen some specialized shops sell for more than the above number because they have a truck spray booth or another business attached to the main business. Examples of attached business might be an auto repair shop or towing operation. Also the location, size and real estate rental amount will influence the value of any business, to some degree.

2. The second method, I call the GROSS SALES METHOD. This is used when the sales are over $1,000,000 a year but the profit is unknown or financials are not available or reliable. Because of experience, a Body shop buyer can make reasonable estimates of future profits, if they have some basic information. The basic information includes rent, source of business (DRP, STREET, or a CAR RENTAL AGENCY), and the desirability of the location.

When this method is used, the value appears to be about 3 months sales or 25% of the last 12 months sales. This method is not very reliable on businesses with sales of less than $1,000,000, because the question of being profitable is very questionable. Why is this breaking point $1,000,000 in annual sales? Multi-store buyers will have well paid managers, so many figure their breakeven point is around a million.

Less than $1,000,000 in sales is not even worth their time. Of course we know that there are exceptions to the rules. Some of the exceptions are A. when a new location will be a satellite store to a bigger location. B. The buyer must have a location in a specific area to please a DRP. C. To get rid of a competitor.

3. The third and most used method of evaluating any business, including body shops, is the NET PROFIT METHOD. This method is based on the idea that a business is worth what it generates, in profit and benefits, for an owner. Body shops, like so many other small businesses, often do not show a profit, at the end of the year. Strange, how so many businesses of different sizes all just happen to end up with little or no profit. What I find really amazing is that the IRS doesn't audit more businesses then they currently do.

As a result of showing poor profits, on the books, it becomes very difficult to use the NET PROFIT METHOD for appraising many small businesses. Luckily for me, I can quite often find hidden profits, of a business, by adding to the books, items we call owner's benefits. These include: Owners salaries, if a corporation. Personal autos and all the related expenses used by the owner and his family that are written off against the business, fife insurance and health insurance for the owners.

Depreciation is also a hidden profit that is usually added back in to the taxable profit to help build up the total owners benefits. And lastly, personal utilities, phones, trips, etc. that are deducted on the tax return but are not really costs to run the business.

After saying all this, what is the value of a business based on the Net Profit Method? Automotive businesses, especially auto body shops appear to sell for between 1.5 to 2 years adjusted profit (book profit plus owners benefits added back in). Larger body shops doing over $2,000,000 in annual sales may sell for much more, because the owner is making much more money, than just his salary and a buyer will consider part of the profit a return on his financial investment.

Very large body shops that are being bought by public corporations are evaluated primarily on their return on investment (Percentage profit that is being made on the cash purchase price of the business.) These big buyers can afford to pay between 5 times and 10 times annual net profit, after deducting all officers' salaries and perks.

Often these, public corporations, high purchase prices include two important restrictions, which is really why they are buying the business in the first place. First: The business is bought for little or no real money. They use restricted corporate stock that is not negotiable for two years. And second: The management is required to stay and run the company for some period of years.

The bottom-line, as I see it, is that you sold your soul, not your business. One last comment on selling to large corporations; heaven help the seller who sells his business for corporate stock or the buyers bonds and the buying company goes broke or the stock market crashes. I had a close friend sell his company for mostly cash and some seller carry back financing in Dec 1997. By Feb 1998 the buying company was in bankruptcy, making the paper my friend held worthless.

CONCLUSION: Appraising a business, especially body shops, is an art not a science. No two people will appraise the value of a business the same. I am amazed that the same thing one buyer thinks is a great asset is what another buyer thinks is a major negative. Differences of opinion are what make life interesting.

Free Auto Repair Manual - Find Online Today

Are you looking for an auto service manual? Would you like to find a way to repair your vehicle or certain parts of your vehicle on your own?  It's possible to get a free auto repair manual online to use for whatever type of auto repair you need. If you have Internet access and a computer, you will be able to do this in a relatively short amount of time.

All you have to do is search online for an auto service manual that will help your needs. You can find a free online auto repair manual to help you with your car today. The first step is to know what type of manual you are looking for. There are different types of auto service manuals available.

Some examples are:

• Repair manuals


• General manuals


• Diagnosis descriptions


• Maintenance manuals

It will be important to know which type of manual you are looking for when you go searching for these online. Knowing how to help narrow your search can be very important and will also help make the process quicker and easier for you.

Then in the future, you will know how to find a particular manual right away. For example, you can search according to make and model as well as the year of a particular vehicle you want to make repairs to.

Repair manuals will go into the most detail of how to repair specific parts of your vehicle. You can look up exhaust repair, body repair, engine repair, interior repair and more. General manuals are like repair manuals but they are usually not related to the make of the vehicle and just discuss repairs in general that you can apply to most any vehicle.

Diagnosis descriptions help you either by make and model or by specific types of automotive repairs. For example, they may focus on one area of the vehicle in which the repairs are the same throughout different make and models of automobiles. Sometimes they are also categorized according to certain sounds or indications the vehicle might make that something is wrong.

The more you know about the types that exist out there, the better prepared you will be to make your search for free online auto repair manuals. When you find a great, quality, dependable site for searching for free repair manuals, you should be sure to bookmark it so you can always come back to it later when needed.

You will probably be surprised to see how many great manuals there are out there for free. You can find these manuals online without spending a dime. Don't be fooled by sites trying to tell you that you have to pay for their guides when they are likely offering the exact same information you can obtain for free.

You also don't have to wait weeks to contact the manufacturer for a guide when you can now find them online instantly. This makes it possible to get your free auto repair manual quick and easy so you can get right to your repairs when you're ready.

Auto Accident Insurance Claim - How to File a Car Insurance Claim

Did your car get damaged through an accident and you are wondering what next to do? If the car was insured, you can file for a car accident insurance claim and get your car replaced in couple of weeks if not days.

Whether the police report faults you or not on the cause of the accident, if you know how to file your legal paper work properly, will can be sure of getting your car back.

Let's take a look at some of the things you need to do to fast track the recovery of your damaged vehicle.

Step one: Draft a Demand Letter

You have to write a demand letter to the insurance firm in charge of your car insurance. Many people are lost as to what to write here. There are a few damages that you should include in your demand letter, they include and not limited to damage to or damages leading to: Property, Self, Medical bills, Hospital bills, general loss, Emotional trauma etc

You have to also attach all receipts where applicable to back up these claims.

Step two: Follow Up the Letter

It's no use writing a letter if you cannot follow it up. The officer attached to your account will contact you after receiving your letter and will demand for your auto accident settlement. An offer will be made to you and they will have you sign some documents. Be careful not to sign hurriedly because signing will mean that the claim has been settled. If you are satisfied with the claim settlement after careful consideration, you may sign the documents else you may want to take further action.

Step three (Optional)Auto Accident Attorney Help

After you have went through all of this trouble you may even yet need an auto accident attorney. This is why I would just retain one at the beginning. If you get a lawyer you will probably get 3 to 4 times the money that you would get by taking on the insurance company by yourself. They have big bad lawyers that are on their side. These lawyers know the law and any loops holes that will get them out of paying.

New Convertible Rear Window - Glass Vs Plastic

At a certain point in the lifetime of a convertible car, the top will have to be replaced. Canvas or vinyl convertible tops can typically last up to ten years with good maintenance habits. When it is indeed time to replace the top, a decision must be made whether to replace with a glass or plastic window. Most cars will allow for the capability to choose between the two, though a few cars were designed for one or the other. When replacing a convertible top, understanding some of the issues that arise with either material will shed light on the decision making process.

Plastic Window

Plastic rear windows are standard on a lot of convertible cars. When they are new, the windows are great. They are functional, flexible, and lightweight. The main problem will be that the aging process which will occur is far more accelerated than the top itself. Within a couple of years the plastic will either be severely discolored or fogged, making the window a safety hazard and an eye-sore. Therefore, within the lifetime of the convertible top, the window will likely need to be replaced at least once. Depending on the model of the vehicle, this may be easier to take care of, but in general replacing the plastic window is a hassle and an expense.

Glass Window

Although many convertibles come with plastic windows, an equal number either have a glass window option or come standard with a glass window. The main benefit of these windows is that, just like with a standard vehicle's window, they will maintain their clarity and durability. The main concern with a glass window is that they are not flexible like the plastic, and a small complication in the cars convertible closing mechanism can result in a shattered window. Additionally, if a car is designed for a plastic rear window, a replacement top with a glass window may need to be smaller in order to fit in the car's boot; the limited rear view may be a concern to some drivers, but to most it's just personal preference.

To conclude, it is safe to say that in most situations a convertible owner will want to opt for a glass window on their replacement top. In general, owners of a convertible with a glass window will not replace the top with a plastic window; the decision will usually apply more to the owner of a plastic rear view convertible. Thus, it is important to consider the car's design and whether or not the chance of a shattered or smaller rear view will be a large concern. Other than that the best choice is pretty simple: A replacement top with a glass rear view window.

Necessity of a Cheap Windshield Replacement

The term windshield means the front window. It is also called as the windscreen. It is generally made with laminated glass, which is a type of treated glass. The main function of the windshield or the windscreen is to shield the driver from the wind especially the driver of the car. But the windshield of the motorcycles is to improve the drag coefficient and doesn't shield rider from the wind when sit upright. In other words, it is mainly used to protect the occupants of the vehicle from wind, temperature, dust, insects etc., as also it provides the aerodynamically designed window in the front. Earlier, it was made of ordinary glass but now it is laminated safety glass. Today, it has become a safety device.

It is dangerous to have a cracked or broken front window. When damaged, it affects the driver's vision and it may lead to an accident. It is the most important safety component of a vehicle. Although, it is made of tough glass, the severity of the accident or serious jarring of the car can cause it to crack. The safety of the driver and the co-passengers cannot be compromised for want of a good front window. The auto glass is one of the components used in repairing the windscreen that helps a person of safe journey.

The main object of the technician is to see that the crack or chip in the front window disappears in such a way that one would not be able to tell that there was ever a cracked or broken window. The expenditure incurred should be minimal. The repairman or the mechanic has to replace it in such a way that nobody should know that it is replaced. After, the replacement the dents wherever they appear should be removed neatly and then painted properly and evenly. The estimation should be detailed in such a way that it must be cost effective and not expensive. The companies which would replace, fix, paint etc., should be genuine and renowned companies, the addresses of which could be ascertained by references and by searching the yellow pages. The parties should be assured that the experts of these companies, who quote the lowest prices, provide guaranteed and good quality materials and they would come anywhere whenever required and do the needful. The companies should not cheat or try to exploit the customers availing the services. The agencies or the companies involved in the same should guide the customers reasonably.

There is also auto glass repair service which when needed, the technician takes care of the crack very quickly by fixing or repairing the windshield using simple tools and repair equipment which does not require the window to be removed. The parties should also take cover under the insurance. The payments should be easy and flexible. The repair or replacement should be cost effective. Precautionary measures should be taken in advance for a quality replacement which would hold good for years.

How to Increase Car Counts for Your Auto Repair Shop - Use Mobile or Text Message Marketing

Mobile Marketing or Text Message Marketing has truly become an incredibly powerful marketing strategy, but only if it's done right.

Also understand why mobile or text message marketing is so powerful. It's powerful because your ads or offers are targeted specifically for the user. They opt-in to get your messages and basically tell you that they want to hear from you. Let me explain.

In order to get started and set up a mobile marketing campaign, you will require:

1) A Text Messaging Platform: This is the system that runs all of your campaigns. Platforms are typically hosted online and (depending on the service you choose) will run all of your mobile campaigns. There are a variety of platforms available and each one of them boasts specific features. Some are just basic text messaging; others include Text-to-Vote, Text-to-Win and countless other features. The platforms also provide your 'keywords' and the 'short code'

2) The Short Code is the specific number that people will text to. A short code is really a shortened phone number that's provided to you by the Text Messaging platform.

3) Keywords: Those are the words or terms that people will 'text' to get your offer. Keywords can be any combination of letters and numbers that you want. As an example, you might have customers or prospects 'text the word myautoshop to 54321 to get (your offer - like to save $10 on your next oil change' The term 'myautoshop' would be your keyword; the number 54321 would be the short code.

4) When people text to your short code, they will get an instant response that should direct them to your mobile website to view a coupon for the savings.

To really be successful and increase your car counts dramatically, you must have a mobile website. That's because they are a much smaller, stripped down version of your regular site and will load much faster on visitor's mobile devices.

What makes this strategy so powerful is that it's been proven that prospects and customers who receive text message marketing and coupons (also referred to as m-coupons) from local businesses are 'hyper-responsive'. The statistics are overwhelming. Some recent studies show that mobile coupons and offers get 10X the redemption rate as opposed to any other coupon format. Today, Mobile Marketing or Text Message Marketing is one of the best methods you can use to Increase Car Counts and market your business to make more money. Above that, you'll build a better list of loyal customers.

Fastest Way to Strip Paint Off Your Car Bodywork - Bare Metal and Paint Repair

If you are going to do a job then the motto is "do it right" and this most certainly applies when it comes to stripping paint. Most professionals when stripping the paint from panels for example will depend on a chemical process to assist them. The chemical is specifically designed for stripping paint for the most part, though these are not cheap so learning to work with them properly can save you time and money. It's still a time consuming project. You have to apply the stripper, leave it while it does its job, then come back and scrape of the stripper, then start the process all over again.

Here are some steps to help you get the job done fast and efficiently.

Step One:
Get the surface ready. You do this by masking off the areas you don't want stripped. Make sure you use a good quality masking tape, as you don't want the stripper to seep under the tape. Also, be sure to mask well any openings or crevices that the stripper could get into. If this were to happen and go unnoticed then you could run into a problem later on. Stripper could easily surface up into the new paint you just recently applied.

Step Two:
There are many good chemical strippers on the market today. Make sure you read and follow all of the manufacturer's directions exactly. Don't just assume that the one you are using now is going to be the same as the one you used last time. Some strippers are in liquid form while others are in a paste form. One common brand that is quite good is Aircraft Remover that is specifically made for auto body use. You need to pour some of the stripper from its original contain into a disposable container. Make sure you use a chemical resistant paintbrush to apply it with otherwise you could end up with a melted brush.

Step three:
When you are applying the chemical, apply it in one direction only and don't work too much with it. Working it too much only reduces its activity.

Step Four:
This is an important step. Once you have your stripper on then cover it with polyethylene about 2-4ml thickness. Then secure this all around the edges. The reason for doing this is that the chemical components in the stripper that are responsible for softening up the paint evaporate quickly. Whereas if you cover it then it will work for a much longer period of time. You can leave it up to two hours for tough jobs. This little technique makes that expensive stripper go a little bit further. Another hint as well is with a 40-60 grade sandpaper just rough up the surface of the paint just enough to break through the paint film then apply the stripper.

Step Five:
Remove the polyethylene, scrape, and then use steel wool to get into the crevices. Make sure all of the stripper residue is removed before proceeding. Some strippers you can rinse with water, but read the manufacturers directions according to the product you are using.

Tips For Painting A Car Yourself

There is a lot of work that goes into painting a car. However, with all of the television shows, such as, Overhaulin', West Coast Customs, and Powerblock, it appears to be much easier than it really is. In this article, I will give you a few tips for painting a car that will make it easier for you, but it still requires effort on your part.

First, you must realize that this type of work is not for everyone. In fact, I have students that enroll into my auto body class that are surprised to learn the amount of effort it takes to properly repair and paint a car. Of course, I said to properly repair a car. I have watched several YouTube videos where someone is demonstrating how produce results using Rustoleum and a paint brush. Well, maybe that method will work for a farm truck or tractor....that is not going to cut it in the real world. It does take effort and time to do this correctly...more than 1 or 2 hours for sure.

With that said, for the other gear heads out there, like me, the effort is not painful. If you love this type of work, the effort is fun and gets into your blood. So if this is not a hobby you enjoy doing, you may want to find something else that is.

Painting A Car

The first thing you want to keep in mind when painting a car is to clean the car. Over time, the car collects contamination from the environment and from waxing. These contaminates can cause a lot of problems for us in the refinish world. Contaminates such as silicone and oil is on the top of the painters bad list. To assure we eliminate this problem, an old fashion hand wash will do the trick. Remember, since wax and silicone are our enemy, don't use a car soap with wax in it. We want to strip the wax, not protect and add to it. Dish soap will also work if it does not have added ingredients for keeping your hand soft. Once washed, wipe the car down with wax and grease remover to assure all traces of contamination are off the paint surface.

What Condition Is The Paint In

If you are lucky you can sand and paint the painted surface. However, there are a few reason that will cause you additional work. If the surface is peeling, you will need to strip the paint off and start over. If it is just the clear coat peeling, you may get by with just sanding all of the clear coat off and starting the paint process from there. Another thing to keep in mind is how thick the paint is. If the coatings are over 12 mils thick, you will need to strip some of the coatings off so you do not keep building up the mil thickness. Ask the paint store where you buy your paint to check it for you. They should have a mil thickness gauge. If the car is a factory paint job, or if it does not have any paint problems, you are safe to prep and paint.

Sand and Paint

To paint a car I am going to give you a wet sanding method, as you are probably a DIY car enthusiast without every tool under the sun. To do this all you need is some 400 grit wet or dry sandpaper, a squirt bottle with water and some genuine elbow action. Sand the entire surface you are painting with 400 grit sandpaper. Be certain to sand edges extremely well, as this is where paint will peel if not sanded properly. Once the entire car has been sanded, wash again to assure it is completely clean. Allow to air dry or use compressed air to speed up the process, and now you are ready for paint.

Spraying Primer Sealer, Base Coat and Clear Coat

If you did not do any body work and there is no bare metal, you do not have to use primer sealer. However, if there are spots where you sanded through leaving the car different colors, I would use a coat of primer sealer to get a uniform color before spraying base coat. If you can any bare metal, I would hit it with self etch primer in a rattle can before painting as well. Oh, and of course, don't forget to mask before spraying! Now you are ready to spray base coat and clear coat.

Each brand uses slight different methods and flash times. The best thing to do, is to ask for technical data sheets from the place you buy the paint. They will be able to provide these for you and it will tell you exactly how to spray their specific products.

That is it, now it's time to go out to the garage and get started painting a car yourself.

Auto Glass Cleaning - Tips for Sparkling Clean Windows and Mirrors

The windows of your car take a beating from dirt, bugs, bird droppings and other debris. But with a few simple techniques and a little know-how, you can make even the dirtiest windows sparkle. Here's a list of helpful glass cleaning tips to get your windows brilliantly clean - and without leaving behind streaks, scratches, residue or lint.

1. The first step is to choose an auto glass cleaner. Make sure your glass cleaner does NOT contain ammonia, alcohol or any ingredient that could produce toxic fumes. Beyond the obvious health concerns of inhaling these fumes, consider the impact your automotive cleaning products have on the environment. There are car care products on the market that are 100% biodegradable, non-toxic and recyclable that have the same great cleaning power as traditional cleaning products.

2. Any product containing ammonia is a definite no-no when it comes to auto detailing. Ammonia and ammonia fumes cause plastic, rubber, vinyl and leather to dry out, and will damage any tint your windows may have. Do your homework and you won't end up destroying your vehicle's interior while you're trying to clean it!

3. The type of towel you choose to clean your windows with can make all the difference. Choose a high-quality, glass cleaning microfiber towel of at least 300 GSM. Microfiber towels can hold up to eight times their weight in water, are lint-free and will not cause scratches. An electrostatic charge causes dirt and debris to be lifted up and away from the surface, rather than dragged across it. Old t-shirts, towels, socks and newspaper are not the best choice when cleaning your car's glass, and will likely cause scratches, streaks and missed spots.

4. If you are cleaning the entire interior of your car, save your windows and rear-view mirror for last to avoid getting stray spray from other cleaning products on your freshly cleaned glass. You can also avoid stray spray by spraying your window cleaner (and other applicable interior auto detailing products) onto the microfiber towel - not directly on the surface.

5. Another factor to keep in mind is the motion you buff with your microfiber towel. While a circular motion may appear to be actively buffing away any streaks from your windows, a straight back-and-forth and then up-and-down motion will ensure that the entire surface has been cleaned and wiped down thoroughly.

6. Remember when cleaning your windows or mirrors to use one towel (or one side of a towel) to wipe the surface clean, and a second to buff the surface to a residue-free shine. Not only do you need two clean towel surfaces per swipe, but per window. The last thing you want to do is spread the dirt and dead bugs that you wiped off of your windshield onto the next window you clean. Make sure you have enough clean towels to avoid contaminating one window with the last one's mess.

7. Avoid cleaning your vehicle's windows in direct sunlight or very hot conditions, if possible. This is especially important if you are using a window cleaner containing harsh chemicals. When the liquid evaporates, the fumes left behind could easily be inhaled, posing a serious health risk. Even with non-toxic window cleaners, evaporation can also mean a spotty residue before your towel even hits the glass.

8. The easiest place to overlook when cleaning your vehicle's windows is the small edging area at the top of the window. Often, this area is especially dirty from build up in the rubber lip. Be sure you roll each window down several inches to clean this area on both the interior and exterior of the glass.

9. Ever get a build up on the edges of your windshield wipers that causes blurry areas on your windshield? Wipe down your blades with a damp cloth and a bit of white vinegar. The vinegar will remove the debris that's stuck on the blades and allow them to make full contact with the windshield again. If after a wipe down, your windshield wipers haven't improved any, you may be due for a new pair. And don't forget to clean out your wiper cowl once in a while! The wiper cowl is the area at the base of the windshield where your wipers lay when not in use. Keeping this area free of grime will greatly reduce the amount of debris on your wipers.

Auto Body Repairs Work For Budgets

Many, if not most of us are on a budget today. We are watching where we spend each and every dollar. We are also making sure that we get the best deal for the money that we do spend. There is nothing wrong with that. However, sometimes things come up that we do not always plan for and we need to spend some money that we really weren't planning to. One such thing is when our vehicle needs repair. If your vehicle has auto body damage you should find out about auto body repairs. This is something that can be done, even on a budget.

Many people put off getting their vehicle repaired because they think it will cost too much money. Sometimes the repairs can be costly. But that really depends on a few things. For example, what needs to be repaired, where will you take your vehicle for repair and will you get the existing materials repaired or will you have them replaced? All of these things will have an effect on your bill total.

The first thing you need to remember is to choose auto body repair! If you choose auto body replacement you will be paying a lot more money. It cost money to order the replacement part. You will not only get charged for the part but have to pay more since it will usually take longer than repairs. You may also have to get a rental car while you are waiting for the repair to be completed. That will cost you more money.

With auto body repairs, the auto reconditioning specialist will repair what materials are still on the vehicle. They have many advanced methods to repairing vehicles in a way that you can hardly tell that there was damage to begin with. Most repairs can be completed quickly in a few hours. Also you will not have to wait for any parts to come in so you will not have to rent a vehicle. Also to add to that many auto body shops offer a mobile service for some services they offer. So, they will come to you whether it be work, home or wherever and repair your vehicle for you. Since repairs can be completed quicker and there are no replacement parts you will not have to pay as much. So, if you are on a budget auto body repair is clearly the choice for you.

You may not think you need auto body repair, but it is best to get it done. You will prevent your vehicle from further damage, keep yourself and passengers safe, keep your vehicle looking nice, and maintain its resale value.

You just need to find an auto body shop that will complete the repairs for quickly. Also don't forget as much as you will want a qualified auto body specialist to work on your car, you want and need a good price. So, look around before choosing and find a shop that you feel comfortable with and that fits into your budget!

Mobile Car Washing Versus the Threat from Well Funded Dry Wash Smear On Products

The auto service business is alive and well, and we are a nation of cars. Because people care so much about their automobiles, and they spend so much to buy them, they also care very much about how they present themselves when driving. It is for this reason that folks spend a lot of money getting their cars washed and detailed. One of the services which has become very valuable to auto owners is that of mobile car washers who come to their office and wash their car.

However most of the mobile car washers have come under fire by environmental regulations, and competition. It seems that the fixed site car washers would rather not have the mobile car washing companies around. Why you ask? It's simple, every time a mobile operation cleans a car, well it is one less car that the carwash can clean. And there is another competitor - those waterless car washes, most of them are also mobile, they use a dry-wash smear on type product, which cleans the car without using any water.

Many of these companies are franchise based, or large business opportunities - and they are very much using the global warming and environmental movement to promote their products and services. Also in many parts of the world and in the United States there is a shortage of water. So, these companies say that carwashes and mobile carwashes use too much water.

However, the reality is that most mobile carwashes only use between three and 5 gallons for every car they wash, which is hardly anything compared to someone washing their car their driveway who might use 50 to 100 gallons.

Unfortunately for the mobile car washer that has a plastic water tank on the back of their pickup truck or on a small trailer, they do not have the wherewithal or the money to compete against the venture capital funded dry wash companies, who are busy lobbying local storm water regulators, and even using verbiage from the EPA site on their brochures, and company websites.

It's too bad that the dry wash type waterless carwashes cannot go about their business on their own and let the consumer decide which type of service they'd rather have. Using government regulators and the EPA to try to shut down mobile carwash operators makes some people wonder if the dry wash companies could compete without using the government to stop their competition. Additionally, the fixed site car wash owners are quite happy to see this little war going on, because it also means more business for them.

What we have now is a situation where "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" as the dry wash car wash companies and the fixed site carwashes gang up on the mobile operators and they are using their money and lobbying power to unbalance the level playing filled of the free market. This should be expected, and many entrepreneurs believe the only reason that regulators exist in the United States is simply to provide barriers to entry so one greedy business owner can hog all the business.

Yes, that's a cynical way to look at it, but I do also understand why people often say that, especially as they observe how some businesses get all the juice, and other businesses are forced out of business with new laws and regulations. Don't get me wrong, I am all for helping the environment, but the way that our environmental regulations are being used and enforced does pose a problem for mobile carwash operators who use water rather than smear on dry wash products. Please consider all this.