Attn: Auto Shop Owners - Tired of Customers Resisting Your Price? Here's Two Tips You Need To Know

It's the elephant in the room. Let's face it, regardless of economic conditions, as a shop owner, you've got to face two simple facts before you can overcome this and get the elephant out of there.

First, when it comes to auto repairs, the typical consumer sees you as wanting to take advantage of them. They are on the look out for you wanting to 'pad' the bill or sell them something that you don't need.

Why? It's a matter of trust and it's not their fault. They don't trust you because you haven't given them any REASON to trust you. You haven't demonstrated it to them.

Like it or not, people buy from those they 'KNOW, TRUST and LIKE'. Think about it for a minute; You do the same thing, don't you? Would you trust your personal finances and planning to somebody you don't trust? I don't think so.

How did that person EARN your trust? Well, in a nutshell, they demonstrated it to you. They may have told you stories about how they helped others, given you special reports about saving and financial planning or even gave you a free consultation when they first met you. They showed you different things that provided you the PROOF that they were credible and trustworthy.

The second reason is that nobody likes to spend more than they have to. But then why is that people routinely make purchase like big screen TV's or the latest electronic gadget or newest phone and they spend hundreds doing it when they don't really have to. (Yes, life goes on without a 52" flat screen!)

The fact of the matter is that people buy on emotion and then justify it with reason AFTER. Yes, I bought that 52" big screen because the picture is great and besides, I needed a new television anyway. There's the justification!

How do you fix this?

When it comes to trust, you can overcome that by demonstrating that you really do know what you're doing. PROVE it to your customer. You can do that when they're waiting for your quote by

Letting them read customer testimonials: You can say all you want about yourself and how good you are, but that's always viewed as self serving statements. After all, what else would I expect you to say. But when you publish testimonials about how you helped other people or how you saved them a ton of money, that becomes your social proof. What your customer says about you is 100x more powerful than anything you can tell them.

Special Reports and Service Information: Simple one or two page reports that prove you know what you're doing. Consider a series of reports like "Did you know this about your car's battery?" Just provide the information that addresses problems and solutions. How about a title like "Oil - Your car's Lifeblood and things You Need to Know about it"? Right now you may be laughing because this is all common knowledge. But it's common knowledge to YOU; Not your customer! Give them the information in a format that THEY will understand and build your credibility with your customer by proving you know what you're doing.

Your Customer Newsletter: If you don't have one, you need one. Keep the current copy of your customer newsletter available for customers to read. It doesn't have to be fancy (and in fact, it shouldn't be fancy) Your newsletter is one of the best methods you can use to build your credibility and your customer's trust.

When it comes to spending more than they have to (or want to) you're getting resistance because you're not appealing to their emotions. Remember, people buy on emotions and justify it with reason AFTER.

When you do up a quote and present it to the customer, you're not appealing to any of their emotions. In fact, that quote is all about YOU, not them.

Have you explained any safety issues to them about the repair? One of the biggest fears a car owner has is experiencing unexpected roadside breakdown. Yeah, what do you do at night on a lonely road? Who do you call?

I'm not suggesting that you 'scare' them into a repair or try to sell them something they don't need. I neither support or condone that type of selling and neither should you! But if you can get them to stop and think about their safety and that of their family, you really do start to touch their emotions.

Compete Against Yourself for the job: I know, you're asking yourself "how do I do that?" It's really simple. Give your customers options. I strongly suggest that you use a written quote system because people better understand what they SEE instead of what they HEAR. (Remember, they're already thinking about a bunch of other things like 'what's for diner tonight' or 'why didn't she call me back?' - more words from you about your quote just adds clutter to their thoughts!)

Secondly, your options should show the 'good - better - best' scenario of each repair. And don't forget to add charges for extended warranty or protection to your 'BEST' package. You'll be surprised how many people will relate the price to quality.

As an auto repair and service shop owner, overcoming price objections (or the so called Elephant in the Room) should be a strategy that you're prepared to address all the time. No, they're not just 'cheapskates'! They're not buying because you haven't developed a trust and your credibility and you haven't appealed to their emotions.

The only thing you've really done is given them a quote looking for a 'yes' or 'no' answer. That doesn't work!

Car Repair and Rainy Weather Driving

This scary scenario has happened to so many drivers: fast, hard rain and suddenly you find yourself driving through foot deep water. There are different methods to rainy weather driving. Being aware and driving smart can help you prevent car repair due to rain and water damage.

When you are driving in the rain, keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel may be your only focus. With your windshield wipers going full speed, you are forced to concentrate fully to keep your vehicle on the road and out of the ditch. Spending time in the shop for car repair due to a rainy day accident is frustrating for anyone.

When it comes to rainy day driving, being educated and aware can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe. Driving in bad weather is scary and extremely dangerous. It is important to avoid standing or rushing water, especially on bridges or raised roadways. Because you are unable to tell the depth of the water, it is best to find a different route.

Driving through standing water could damage your vehicle internally in multiple ways. One of the most common side effects of splashing water is forced car repair on the vehicle's computer system. Often, when a vehicle's computer takes on a lot of water, the electrical system occasionally shuts down.

Little things that can help you on a rainy day will also help you keep your vehicle out of the car repair shop. Driving with your lights on in the rain is an easy way to prevent fended benders. Even in light rain, drivers have difficulty seeing vehicles that do not have their lights turned on. This is a simple way to prevent major and minor accidents.

Teaching yourself not to slam on your brakes in the rain can also save you a lot of heartache. Rain wet roads can be extremely slick; especially in those moments right after the rain has started. Test the road slickness by tapping on your brakes. You may be surprised how just a little bit of rain affects your stopping distance.

To avoid hydroplaning, drive in the middle lane. Most people know that highways and roads are highest in the middle to help with water run off. That means that water occasionally gathers on the outer edges. If you do find yourself hydroplaning, do not panic. Hold the wheel firm and tap on your brakes. This will prevent your vehicle from accelerating and will keep you from traveling into the hydroplane spin.

Finally, make sure your windshield wipers are in good shape. If you have not replaced them in a while, buy yourself a new pair. They are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of trouble. Check with your vehicle's manufacturer's book to see what size you need. You may need two different sized wipers for your windshield.

Smart driving can prevent accidents while driving in rainy conditions. Knowing the road conditions and how they will affect your vehicle and your driving will keep you from a major car repair bill.

Auto Repair and Integrity - Oxymoron?

Everyday life can produce great lessons in integrity and business. So was the case when I was purchasing my car at the end of its lease. Maryland requires a state inspection. With only 40,000 miles on the car, it seemed like a formality.

We would all agree that the dealership, especially for luxury vehicles, has the latest information to service your vehicle. So, since there was some warranty/recall work required, I had the dealer perform the state safety inspection, I took the report at face value when they said I needed $2,500 to $3,000 of repairs. But, feeling as though some of this didn't make sense, I did what few consumers would do: I paid for a second opinion.

I contacted some friends in the automotive industry, and they recommended an independent mechanic that runs a medium-sized facility. Jeff, the owner, has a reputation for servicing luxury vehicles and solving the tough cases. Most importantly, Jeff is known to operate with integrity.

Jeff''s facility is not as elegant as the dealership. I explained that I knew I needed a bunch of repair, and also needed an inspection in order to change from a lease to owning the vehicle. After an hour, he came to deliver the report: I needed nothing, nada, zip. The car was in perfect condition. I showed Jeff something on the front tires that the dealer said required that I replace two tires for $700. Jeff explained how they test the tires, showed me the state guidelines, showed me the same situation on a brand new tire, and said "your tires have at least 10,000 miles left of safe usage. I'd be happy to sell you tires, but I'd prefer to wait until you need them." I then showed him the report from the dealer, and he shook his head and then showed me in detail each of the supposed failures and how the dealer's report was not accurate. In fact, in one case the dealer reported that each brake pad had 6/32 of material left on it. Jeff showed me how two of the pads had 14/32 - I guess they grew material overnight.

The lesson, for my purpose, is of course about sales and integrity. The dealership represents the high-end market leader. Jeff is the local small to medium business. Jeff is not permitted by the manufacturer to perform warranty and recall work - you must go to the dealer. But, when the dealer lost my trust, do you think they can ever earn back my business? Jeff could have easily charged me to fix what didn't need repairing. However, by being honest and educating me, did Jeff earn my trust and business? You bet. And, where do you think my referrals are going now?

It is our job to help ensure that our clients are making good decisions, and that we are looking out for their best interest. When we do this, we are rewarded with repeat business and referrals. For the record, I personally purchased more than $200,000 of vehicles from the dealership in the past several years and referred more than two times that amount in business. It took a while to build up that referral business. But, guess how fast that spigot will be turned off.

If you assume that this could have been caused by one rogue mechanic, think about how that same situation can apply to your business if one person in your organization fails to act with integrity? And, if you catch wind that your competition just acted improperly, now could be a good time to speak with your prospect about how you might be able to meet their needs... but be sure to do so with integrity - and never bad-mouth the competition. If you ask the right questions, the customer might do that job for you.

I contacted the dealership to speak to the owner. How do you think they should respond?

The Fast-Paced Changes in Technology

Only one thing is certain in technical education. That absolute certainty is change. If career and technical education institutions are going to prepare students for tomorrow's jobs, they must adapt to the changes in technology. The old method of learning a trade from the "old school" or traditional ways will leave tomorrow's employees behind. For many years a lot of trades could be copied and repeated over and over.

For example, in auto collision repair, the same methods were used for years to straighten damaged metal back to its original shape. Then lacquer paint consisting of only a few basic colors, were used to paint the vehicle back to its original color. While some of the old techniques are still very effective, the industry has made major changes. Plastic body fillers were introduced to take the place of lead filler; MIG welders took the place of oxyacetylene welding and brazing, enamel replace lacquer paints, and urethane replace enamel paints. These are slight changes that could simply be called improved methods.

However, in the last 15 to 20 years we have plastic parts, aluminum parts, unibody construction in addition to full frame vehicles, computerized cars with sensors requiring the technician to be more knowledgeable about electrical systems, air bags, base coat clear coat finishes, three stage factory finishes, waterborne paints, hybrid cars. And now, they even have cars that will tell you where to turn or if your lost, and even parallel park for you. In fact, by 2012, the average vehicle will have (14) airbags and (11) computers.

This requires much more knowledge, skills and the ability to comprehend all the different repair methods to properly repair the vehicle to pre-accidental condition. It's easy to figure out that a hammer and dolly are not going to fix all the repairs needed these days. Who knows what the auto business will look like in twenty years from now. It's clear the "just like learning how to ride a bike" concept will not work for current and future technical education institutions. If you step out of the industry for a long period of time, you're not going to be able to jump back in and continue where you left off. How busy would a carburetor specialist be in a dealership; or how effective would an executive assistant be using only a typewriter in today's working world?

The future is calling for more diversified technicians than ever before. If we are going to prepare students for a technical career we must teach them the many skills required, but more importantly we must teach them how to learn to learn, because the fast paced changes are a never ending process.

Auto Glass Windshield Replacement Company

Imagine for a moment, you are driving to work on a Friday morning. You cannot wait to get the day over with so that you can go out with your friends tonight. You were on the freeway and you find yourself behind a semi truck. Before you know it, he has flipped a rock in your direction. Now, your entire weekend has just changed. Your windshield has a big crack and your car is not going to be driven anywhere this weekend. You can get in touch with an auto glass company and find out if they have time for an appointment this afternoon.

The good thing about windshield replacement is that the glass company will come to you to do the work. There is no reason why your plans for the weekend need to change. They can come to your work while you are inside doing your job. Before you know it, a new windshield will be installed and you can be on your way. This is the easiest way to make sure that the job is done without having to wait around.

Auto glass is an important necessity for every vehicle. It is not safe to drive a car that has broken glass. This is why it needs to be replaced as quickly as possible. If you were to get pulled over for a broken windshield, the police officer would most likely give you a fix-it ticket. This means that you would have to get it fixed within a certain amount of time. This is why it is best to take care of the problem before it has the opportunity to turn into such.

Maybe you do not need a windshield. Maybe someone has broken into your car and they broke one of her back windows. If this is the case, your auto glass company should be able to take care of the problem right away. This window is not such a necessity as the front window because it is not the main view. However, in order to prevent noise from the outside, it is best to make sure that all of the windows in the car are tightly sealed. Do not get discouraged by the price of auto glass replacement. In some cases, your insurance company will pay for the work to be done. This means that nothing will come out of your own pocket. Now is the time to make the call.

Small Welding Machines and Welding Shops

Welding machines are better defined as tools or equipment which use heat and pressure to create a joint between two pieces of metals or materials. Welding equipment find great use in various production units that produce engineering materials and in automobiles and aerospace industries. They are also used widely in manufacturing companies of train carriages and coaches. Welders have a widespread use in most of the industries.

Looking at welders as equipment of the industries is a narrow perspective. They are also successfully used in small shops of repair and small scale manufacturing workshops. Welding machines are of different kinds and depending upon the source of energy used to create welds; these welding machines are classified as Arc Welders; Fusion Welders; Plasma Cutting Machine; Resistance Welders; Solid State Welders and other similar devices.

Out of all these welding equipment, MIG welding machines are most versatile and are available in various sizes and find different uses. They are available in small and light portable sizes. Unmatched MIG welders are most suited for high performance task and unmatched services. Their USP is that they can utilize all cold running temperatures and prevent distortion of metals. MIG welders work very well on thin metals as well. These small welding MIG machines are thus ideally suited for small shops of automotive repair and also small tasks at home.

There are apart from the patent welding machines mentioned above; some new welding machines which have excellent features and unmatched performance capabilities. Portable welders are another class of welding machines, and as the name suggests, these welders can be used most anywhere power is available. Portable welders can be used by drawing power from the engine of cars and trucks and are very easy to operate as well. They find good use for mechanics on the move and can perform welding actions even on roads. Most portable welders have insulated plastic body and use a single phase power supply. The sleek and sturdy designs of these machines make them an all purpose machines.

Another important welding machine that can be put in the class of small scale welding useful for shops and homes is the plasma cutter. It is essentially used to cut steel and other metals that conduct electricity. The plasma cutter however is used in heavy industries, with developed technology plasma cutters have become handy and cheap to be owned by small shops and hobbyists alike. Hand plasma cutter is very useful in such mechanic shops and even homes of would be welders as they are very simple to operate.

Thus it can be said that welding is essentially an industrial process, welding as a process and also as a profession is increasingly being taken up on a smaller scale as well. Most people find a small welding shop a profitable profession and thus invest little money in welding machines of smaller size and stature. These welders however are as competitive as there bigger counterparts, because it is a well accepted fact that technology is shrinking the world and its equipment.

How to Choose a Auto Body Shop When You Have Been Involved in an Accident - Valuable Information

When you have had the unfortunate event of being in a automotive collision, the last thing you need is to have a bad experience with an auto body shop not doing their job. A good auto body shop will fix your car back to pre-loss condition, both in appearance and in structural and mechanical integrity. A great auto body shop will almost make you feel like the accident never happened. They should start with customer service better then you get at a good restaurant. They should ask if everyone was OK after the accident, generally, they should be more interested in your needs and concerns then their own profit margins. The sad thing is there are many body shops that are just in it for a quick buck and do not have the customer skills or even the repair skills to do the job you, or your insurance company, is paying for. So how do you weed those shops out?

I have been in this industry for over 25 years in the same area, I have worked in high quality auto body shops large and small, and have owned my own collision and custom shop in Portland Oregon for the last 8 years. In my area there are hundreds of auto body repair shops in a very small area, yet I only know a few I would trust with my vehicles. So for the most part you have to be as informed as you can, and ask a lot of questions.

I am going to give you some information about the industry that will hopefully help to make that informed decision a little easier. First, do not let your insurance company tell you where to have your vehicle repaired, in most cases they have contracts with the shop to save them money in exchange for sending them your vehicle. in this case the insurance company saves money, the shop gets the work but has to cut corners to keep the cost down for the insurance company. And you, the one that pays the insurance company all those inflated premiums, and pays the body shop your deductible gets a substandard repair. The insurance company may say "if you don't take the job to our repair shop we can't guaranty the work", the fact is any and all good auto body shops guaranty their work for as long as you own your car, if they don't, go somewhere else.

Next thing to do is be sure to question the person who is estimating your damage, smaller shop owners will usually take care of you personally, and in most cases, actually be involved in the repair process. In most of the larger or chain shops the person writing the estimate on how to fix your vehicle is a salesperson, usually having absolutely no experience repairing cars, not to say that the techs working at that shop wont fix your car correctly, but they may just not feel like rewriting the estimate the way it should of been written to begin with. Just be aware and ask the questions. Also small shops may not have all the fancy lasers and computer operated equipment of a large shop, Then again lasers and computers don't fix cars in most cases they are sales tools and rarely used. Even a frame rack although necessary is nothing more then a few well placed trees, they don't fix cars, the tech is the most important part of the repair.

Ask if the body shop is on any insurance programs or DRP,(direct repair programs) if they are ask why? the only reason I know why a auto body shop would agree to be on a DRP would be to get work that they couldn't get on their own. Again this does not mean just because they have a DRP they are not a great shop, but if they have 20 DRP's then I would be a little concerned? Ask them to explain.

And by far the best resource for finding a good body shop is word of mouth, a friend that's had work done and is happy to let you know about the auto body shop he had good luck with is a good sign they were treated well. If you have no friends or coworkers that have had resent repairs, you can try the local automotive paint supply stores in the area, they visit shops large and small every day and may be able to help you out.

I hope this gives you a starting point, there is so much more to information on this subject and I will try to keep writing more articles in the near future.

What Auto Repair Estimates Are and What They Are Not - The Basics of Auto Estimating

What Is An Estimate

Auto Repair Estimates may be called different things including, damage report, or several other names, but they are all the basically the same thing. However, it is more than just a sheet of paper listing the total cost of repair on it. It is a contract or an agreement between two people. Just like with real estate, the owner and buyer must agree on a price and sign a contract of their agreement. A damage estimate is the same way in many ways, as there should be an agreement between the shop and customer and the customer should sign the agreement to authorize the shop to repair the vehicle.

One thing that you need to explain to the customer, which is misunderstood many times, is that the total amount is just an estimate. They do not guarantee the exact amount of the completed invoice. There may be hidden damage or many other factors that may change before the car is complete. As an estimator, it's your job to have excellent communications with the customer. You need to let them know that an estimate is subject to hidden damage. You must also understand that the estimate or signed agreement is only good for items that are written on the repair sheet. If any additional work is needed, you will need to contact the customer and agree on the new amount. This is called a supplement, which may include additional parts or labor as needed.

We used to write all auto repair estimates by hand using Mitchell Estimate Guides. This involved writing all the damage on a sheet and looking in the guide to get all the parts prices, and labor needed to appraise the job. Computer generated sheets have simplified and taken over the hand written estimates, but when learning how to estimate, I believe it is crucial to learn all the basics first, which requires estimating guides, a blank estimate and a pen. Learning to hand write estimates is the foundation to becoming an effective estimator. Just like every house or building must have a strong foundation, an estimator must master the basics first.

Most guides and computer systems are set up with the same sequence. Starting with the front bumper cover and ending with the back bumper. This is important to know as you want to write the estimate in the same order to write a clean sheet. For example, if you are writing an estimate on a car that has damage in the front end, start with the front bumper and move towards the back of the car one part at a time. Bumper cover, front grille, right front fender, etc. Now when you use the guide it will be easy to follow along adding the prices and labor times.

Every shop will need someone to write estimates for the customers. Some shops may have more than one estimator. Insurance needs the assistance of estimators as well. When you work for an insurance company writing auto repair estimates your title may be auto estimator or auto appraiser.

Options For Auto Glass Repair

Often times it could be tricky to repair a damage windshield. For this reason, it is important to check all your options prior to making a decision. You need to think about the least expensive, but the best approach to get this done. In some instances D.I.Y.'s can help, but quite often you actually need to depend on repair shops to complete the job.

Do it yourself repairs

This will be the most affordable choice but in case it is not carried out properly, it might cost even more in the long run. In the event that you intend to do this on your own, it's important to select the right kits. Conduct a research or perhaps get advice from experts. There are usually two kinds of kits for windshield repair. The very first one will be the more affordable and this is the syringe type. This kit comes with a resin and a syringe for a one time use to fix a single chip or crack. The second kind will be the more costly and this is the bridge system which includes a plastic bridge and resin. This can be utilized many times because it is refillable.

Auto shop repairs

Whenever you are getting your windshield fixed at a shop, ensure that you get value for money. You can check out a few places to compare price and service before making a decision. You have to select a shop which offers warranty to ensure that you will get service if the crack is constantly spreading to avoid paying additional money for repairs.

Keep in mind that windshield repair is a serious matter and this should be done as soon as possible. Whenever a small chip is ignored, this can spread to form a crack or even worse, since you might have to replace the windshield. Additionally, regardless if you are doing it on your own or getting it repaired at a shop, you should always inspect to ensure that all the damage is dealt with

BMW Maintenance and Repair

The Bavarian Motor Works a.k.a. BMW is one of the best performing and luxury cars in the world. Owning one is definitely a big thing! This is because these vehicles have contributed in offering anyone a high status in the society and added to anyone's personality and lifestyle.

However, a BMW car owner should be prepared to face with various instances wherein his or her car will require some heavy repairs and maintenance most especially when met with an accident or any other mechanical problem. As a responsible BMW car owner, you should take your car to a dependable car repair shop and get the best possible car repair service at a most reasonable rate.

Looking for the best and affordable BMW car repair shop can be an involved process but it actually just takes a simple research to find out whether or not you are dealing with a dependable auto shop. Asking your friends, family members, and other people whom you trust to give you recommendations or calling up your local consumer protection agency to get the facts about any given auto repair business can be a few of your options to fulfill this undertaking.

However, you might have a better time looking at local car repair shops that specialize in repairing just about any car models. For example, if you're in Riverside, BMW car repair service shops like GT Imports Automotive and Repair is a good place to go.

Your BMW car may need one or two of these common car repair services that a dependable car repair shop can offer:

BMW Tune-ups. In tuning up your BMW car, checking and replacement of its ignition parts consisting of the spark plugs, distributor caps and rotors, spark plug wires, filters among others are to be carried out.

BMW Brake System Repair. A good brake repair job should cover every aspect of the system from the brake master cylinder to the calipers and wheel cylinders.

BMW Cooling System Service & Repair. Your BMWs cooling system is made up of several different parts, including the water pump, radiator and thermostat. There may come a time that your BMWs cooling system becomes problematic and may require a professional repair.

Suspension & Steering Repair. The power steering system fluid should be checked at every service interval. Fluid leaks are a common problem on power steering systems. On the other hand, the suspension system of your BMW car is an intricate network of cooperating components. Since the suspension is ground zero when it comes to road abuse, the parts wear out, eventually break and needs immediate replacement.

BMW Fuel System Repairs. The electric fuel pump is the heart of every electronic fuel injection system. A fuel pump that does not meet the OE minimum fuel flow or pressure requirements for your BMW may result to drivability and emission problems.

Now, in order to assist you in your car repair endeavor, look no further than the best and affordable BMW repair service in your area.

Choosing Petrol or Diesel Engine in Top Tier Small Cars

With emergence of diesel as a greener, more efficient fuel, automakers are charging higher prices for their diesel models. On average diesel powered vehicles can cost 瞿500 to 瞿1000 more compared to their petrol counterparts and considering the fact that diesel costs almost 5p more than petrol, on average, savings from diesel engines are relatively marginal. Does that mean petrol is back in fashion? Well, that depends on your preferences and what are you looking to buy. A small diesel powered commuter can yield as much as 88 MPG, no petrol powered car can come close to this range but if a big MPV or SUV is what you are looking for than difference becomes close to negligible.

Here we will look at petrol and diesel versions of small movers to know what we might miss or gain if we choose one over the other.

Smart fortwo:

Choosing either a diesel or petrol powered Smart is not a tough proposition. Petrol version, with micro hybrid technology yields 65 MPG while producing 96g/km of CO2 whereas the only turbo charged diesel model can go as high as 85 MPG and emits 86g of CO2 per km. you will lose 3 seconds in 0 to 60 as diesel powered Smart does it in 16 seconds and petrol one does it in 13.

Kia Rio:

Rio recently dethroned Smart fortwo from the 'Most Economical Car' spot. Its diesel lineup yields fuel economy in range of 70 to 88.3 MPG, with emissions ranging from 105 to 85g/km. petrol versions, yield 44 to 56.5 MPGs and emit CO2 in range of 150 to 114g/km. you wont miss any substantial performance as 0 to 60 figure for petrol and diesel Rios has a gap of only 2 seconds (12.2 for petrol and 14.9 for economical diesel, bigger ones be as quick as 11.2 and 12.6 for petrol and diesel respectively).

Mini Cooper S:

We are skipping Mini One and Coopers to keep ourselves focused on Mini Cooper S and SD. Petrol powered Mini achieves an impressive 0 to 60 mile in 7 seconds, while maintaining 48.7 MPG and emitting 136g of CO2 per km. Mini Cooper SD touts an equally impressive 8.1 second run from 0 to 60 and maintains an even more impressive fuel economy of 65.7 MPG, its CO2 emissions are 114g/km. Its obvious that diesel still have the edge in terms of economy but petrol leads the way in performance, choosing either one depends on your budget and driving style.

Auto Paint Touch-Up

Auto paint touch-ups can be efficiently and expertly performed by a trained technician. Depending upon the size of the area to be touch-up, various methods can be use to perform the work. Very small paint chips can be repaired using touch-up paint and a very tiny brush. If the area to be repaired is a bit larger it can repaired by spraying paint using an airbrush or a small touch-up spray gun.

The paints to be used to perform an auto paint touch-up are purchased from a couple sources. Tiny bottles of touch-up paint for repairing tiny chips using a small touch-up brush can be purchased at a dealership. The small quantities of sprayable paint are obtained at an auto body supply shop. The paints are purchased to match the existing original paint color. Paint color is typically designated as a paint code imprinted on a decal or tag which is located somewhere on the vehicle in an unobtrusive spot such as on the outside firewall or a door jamb. This pant code allows the auto body supply shop to mix a small quantity of paint to exactly match the original color.

The spot to be repaired must first be thoroughly cleaned using mild solvents to remove any residual wax, oil or grime. Once cleaned, the area is lightly wet-sanded to prepare the old clearcoat to accept the fresh paint so it will chemically and physically bond to the existing paint. After wet-sanding, the spot is sprayed with a primer paint which is designed to adhere to the bare metal surface. After the primer has cure sufficiently, the area is next sprayed with the color-matched paint. The color is blended out over a somewhat larger area of the existing painted surface so that any color differential is blended out.

The auto paint touch-up is completed by spraying clearcoat over the repaired area and further blending it into the surrounding existing paint. When the repair is completed it will not be noticeable.

The Auto Repair Shop - What You Should Know

There are few feelings that compare with the one that strikes when your car breaks down. It is an empty, frightened feeling for many people because auto repair can be extremely expensive. For those who live paycheck to paycheck, panic can set in. It doesn't help that most people have an inherent mistrust of the mechanic, and in fact there are many unscrupulous people in the business. If you want to go a long way towards eliminating that panicked feeling, here are some things you should know.

Avail yourself of any information you can when it comes to the auto repair shops in your area. Don't just take your car to the place on the corner because it's convenient and you're familiar with the sign; do your homework. Whether that means asking your friends or going online is up to you, but try to make an informed decision about where to take your car. You don't want a simple repair to take six months, so go somewhere where they will most likely get it right the first time. Unless it is beyond the realm of practicality, take your car to a few places and get a few different estimates. You can save a lot of money by shopping around.

Remember to plan for the worst, regardless of the reputation of the auto repair shop you take your car to. Sometimes fixing a car simply takes longer than anyone expected. You never know when something is going to go wrong, and the car shop has no control over how long it takes their vendors to get a part to them. If you've only made plans to be without your vehicle for the time they told you it would take, delays can be extremely frustrating. If you plan for the unexpected, however, you can take it all in stride and be pleasantly surprised when things turn out better than you thought.

Finally, remember to hold the auto repair shop accountable. Not all repairs are easy to inspect before you leave the shop, but some certainly are. Take the time to inspect the work done and ask pointed questions if you see something you don't like. If it's something you can't check without driving the car for a while, do just that and report back with any problems you've noticed. Too many people just figure they'll deal with shoddy work because they don't want to go through the hassle of taking their vehicle back in, when in fact the mechanic should be your friend and partner in getting you back on the road.

Axle Stands Are Needed For A Safe Repair

If you like to do most of the things on your car that a mechanic does, it won't take long and you will need to perform some kind of maintenance or repair where you have to work under your car. That's why it is a must that you have axle stands that can handle your car's weight so you are safe while working under your car. A reliable and durable set of these stands should be present in your tool kit since this car tool can save your life. These stands can prevent the scenario where you are working on your car and the jack slides down and the car falls on your head.

When you are looking for axle stands, there are two factors that you should evaluate. First of all, you should check how much weight the axle stand can handle based on its design and the second factor is the area size of the base. All axle stands show the amount of weight they can handle on the packaging and this figure is also stamped on the axle's frame. It is surprising how the stand can support such great weight even if it's just a light stand. Actually, it's because of how the engineers designed it. The engineers include bracing in all places where it is needed so that the weight from the post where the car is resting can be transferred to the floor or the ground underneath it.

The axle stands that you can buy have load limit that usually range between 8000 and 10,000 pounds and these are enough for most automobiles. Heavy highway trucks and construction equipment require more heavy duty stands in order to have the support needed while they are held up. You can find the axle stand for your application in any auto parts store.

The base is another factor that you should evaluate. One thing you should never think of doing is to jack a car or support it while it's on a side hill position. The gravity forces can easily effect the car's stability and it can easily slide off from its supports. Also, make sure that the surface is hard so that the stands do not go into the ground and tip over. The base of the axle stand should be spacious enough to give a good and stable fitting for your car. The available stands in the market are already tested to determine if they can handle lateral support so you don't have to worry if you use it on a hard and level surface.

Car Repair and Your Dog

If your dog regularly rides in the back seat of your vehicle, you may have car repair costs associated with having a dog.

You are not alone. Many individuals and families own pets that get to ride in the family automobile. Often family dogs can cause damage or general wear and tear on the vehicle. You may find that you are spending more and more money at the mechanic having little things here and there fixed on your vehicle.

There are a few options you can explore. Perhaps you need to find ways to get Grover to the veterinarian's office, but do not want him to chew through the passenger seatbelt for the third time. Maybe you want to take the dog with you for a weekend hiking in the mountains. So many people need to use their vehicle to transport their beloved pet. You should not have to pay a premium in car repair bills to do so.

First of all, talk with your veterinarian if you think that your dog has some anxiety issues when it comes to riding in the vehicle. If anxiety is the cause of your dog's erratic driving behavior, your veterinarian might be able to prescribe your dog with anti-anxiety medicines. These drugs will basically calm your dog making him easier to travel with and reduce anxiety drive vehicle damage.

Your veterinarian may be able to suggest an alternative way to travel with your dog to prevent car repair. Although to you crating may seem cruel or frustrating to the dog, your veterinarian may recommend it. Crates are like a child's stroller, carriage or safety seat. For the dog, it is a way for them to be restrained and ride safely.

It is possible that your veterinarian has several varieties and sizes of crates available for your dog. They can explain the different styles to you and help you find a crate that is right for your dog and your vehicle. The general rule to remember about crates is that they are a safer alternative than letting your dog roam freely in the backseat.

If you are not willing to crate your dog, there are ways to cut back on car repair bills associated with your pooch. There are a variety of back seat protectors available in different sizes and styles. You can purchase a hammock that keeps your dog in the back seat area, creating an inverted tent shape that prevents a lot of movement.

You can purchase covers that fit over your seat and cover everything that could be chewed. Or, you can look into single seat covers. These are ideal for smaller dogs or dogs that are not interested in roaming around or looking out the window. Single seat covers and pads have the appearance of a child's safety seat.

Regardless of whether you treat the dog for anxiety, put him or her in a crate or purchase a seat cover, there are ways to save money on car repair associated with having a family dog.

Automotive Training School Graduate Talks Shop About New Automotive Career

Automotive training schools give students the tools they need to successfully work in auto career jobs they will truly enjoy. Travis DeCesaro is a recent graduate of an auto mechanic training program in Colorado Springs and has been kind enough to share his story.

Mr. DeCesaro graduated from an auto mechanic training program in 2010 and is currently working at an auto center in Pueblo Colorado. He has been working with them for over a year now.

Q: What are some of your favorite things about your new auto career job?

A: I would say my favorite part of my job is working with my hands as well as my head. Sometimes I have to use a lot of problem solving abilities. Also, I'm not flipping hamburgers!

Q: How do you like the auto mechanic career field so far?

A: I enjoy it very much. It can range from boring sometimes to challenging and rewarding at other times.

Q: What are your day-to-day auto career job duties and responsibilities?

A: Job duty and responsibilities are to me summed up into two words, "Quality control". My responsibilities are to make sure the customer doesn't leave with an inferior repair, and that they are satisfied with the service they've received.

Q: How do you like the hours at your new job?

A: As of right now the hours are good. We've been so slammed we have had to reschedule a lot of customers.

Q: Do you feel fulfilled in your new career as an auto mechanic?

A: I would say that I am fulfilled in my career. I mean, there is always room for more money. But I work with a great team of guys; we have chemistry. If there is ever any problem I have that I can't figure out, which isn't that often, we have no problem putting our heads together to get the job done.

Q: In what ways did your auto mechanic training prepare you for your new auto career job?

A: Well, aside from (providing me with) the tools I needed to get started, the program helped boost my confidence by teaching me hands-on (skills). Don't get me wrong, I've done my share of book work, but not as much as I thought there was going to be. The best way to learn something for me is to be shown, and they did show me a lot.

Q. Would you refer friends to the automotive training school you attended?

A: Of course I would recommend my school to a friend.

Q. What advice would you give to current or potential students of auto mechanic training programs about finding and sustaining auto career jobs in the real world?

A: Experience matters in this industry. Aside from just going to school and learning about cars, you need to get out there and put your knowledge to the test. Try and document what you've repaired and put it in your portfolio. Employers want to know that you're capable of doing the work. Pay attention to your instructors. Ask questions, even if you think it might be a dumb one. You'll never know if you don't ask. Really, you only get out what you put in!

Summary

Maybe you've been on the fence about contacting an automotive training school about auto mechanic training. Now that you've heard first hand from an actual student-turned-auto mechanic, you can make a more educated and personal decision on the type of career training that is the best fit for you.

98% of All Car Repair Facilities Are Ripping You Off!

One of the hardest things for many to accept is the breadth and scope that the automotive service industry is ripping people off. They just don't think it's possible.

It's not just possible, it's EASY! It's extremely difficult to even know it's happening. While many of the abuses are blatant, it's the subtle charges that occur daily that slip under the wire.

To be clear, local studies and two decades of close scrutiny from a network of industry professionals have revealed that 98% of all repair shops: dealerships, local shops, and franchises are price-gouging their service customers!

What is price-gouging?

Price-gouging in the automotive service industry simply means "paying too much for car repair prices." The automotive service industry has been price-gouging for decades, and it's getting worse.

Due to the unique nature of service industry scams and tactics, following is a dictionary-style definition to clarify its abuses.

• Price-gouging is the process by which a service center charges a service customer in excess of industry standards or manufacturer guidelines for repairs and/or services. This includes parts, labor, services, miscellaneous charges, or any combination of these.



• Industry standards are understood to mean the commonly accepted practices of using vehicle manufacturer guidelines to determine pricing.



• Price-gouging is also defined as charging the customer for repairs or services which are unnecessary, done poorly, incorrectly, and/or cause damage--(immediately or at a future point) that would not otherwise have been the client's responsibility.

In short, price-gouging is charging above industry guidelines. What's really scary is that many service centers don't even know that guidelines exist.

How often does this happen?

Industry guidelines are ignored, abused, and manipulated to maximize profits every day.

Price-gouging is an accepted practice! It's hardly questioned, and rarely noticed.

Six Tips On How to Avoid Auto Repair Problems

Have you ever thought an auto repair shop may have taken you? You took your car in for a simple oil change only to be told you needed additional, expensive work done. Every day, people are taken advantage of this way. It's estimated nine out of ten women believe they're targeted due to their gender.

Let's fight back! Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

1. Do your homework. Do some checking ahead of time by reading a car care guide for your make and model. In it you will discover some basic repairs so you can know what questions to ask the mechanic.

2. Use your senses. When describing your car's problem to your mechanic, use your senses. Tell how the car "feels" to you or if you have been hearing certain abnormal sounds. What this does is let him know you've been paying attention to your car's needs.

3. Check your warranty. Be careful of paying too much for your auto repair needs. Check with your automobile dealership to make sure your repairs aren't still covered by a warranty. If you choose to take your car to an independent business the parts may be covered by the warranty, but you will most likely need to pay them for the actual cost of fixing it.

4. Get a second opinion. If you still aren't sure if you're being taken advantage of, don't hesitate to get a second opinion. And for goodness sake, don't tell the second mechanic what the first mechanic said was wrong with your car. Wait for the diagnosis from the second one and how much it will cost.

5. Ask to see the part. If you're still uneasy, you can always ask to look at the part, where exactly it is in the car and why they believe it needs replacement. And ask them to show you the old part once the replacement has been done.

6. Run away. If you sense any sort of pressure from the auto repair shop to have your car fixed for things you never knew were wrong with it, walk away as fast as you can. Your good sense and intuition will often be your two best friends in these situations.

A good, honest mechanic will be certified and licensed, have a nice clean garage and communicative employees who can look you in the eye. Two more important things to look for are a written estimate for all the work to be done and, after the work is done, a complete invoice showing the charges for parts and labor.

None of us is born with the knowledge of how our automobiles work. We just want them to get us safely to our destination. But it would behoove us to be as familiar with them as possible. That way, when an unscrupulous auto repair person does cross our path, we'll be able to back away from them as fast as we can.

How to Get a Cheap Windshield Replacement

A car's windshield is one of the most breakable parts of a car, windshields that crack and break will need to be taken in for replacement. There could be a number of causes for a broken windshield and even a chip of gravel can crack the windshield when traveling at a high rate of speed. Extremely cold weather can also cause a cracking windshield, not to mention vandalism and many other types of accidents. Although windshields have been made from toughened glass, they are still susceptible to breaking and will need to be replaced when they do.

Replacing a car's windshield can be quite a costly affair. An alternative could be to try to repair your windshield, although this will only be feasible for smaller cracks. For any large cracks, you'll have to replace your windshield. There is however a number of steps you could take to ensure that you find a good and cheap windshield replacement deal.

The first thing you'll need to do is find the right company. There are a number of large companies that can provide this service, the problem with these companies is that they often charge more due to just because of they're size. The cheaper solution would be to find a smaller company that can do it for you. In many cases you'll find they're price to be 20% to 30% less than a larger company. Many of these smaller businesses don't pay a lot for advertising, so look around your neighborhood to see if you can find any good deals. Many of these types of shops also post classified ads on free online websites, so you might want to look around on a few of those to see what's available.

Time is money. If you need an immediate replacement you'll probably have to pay a lot more. If you can wait on having your windshield replaced then chances are it'll cost less. In many cases immediate fixing will require a premium service price so you may land a better price if you catch a ride or take public transport for a few days.

Although mobile car repairs are convenient, they are also a lot more costly. Go to them instead of having them come to you. If you're driving with your broken windshield you'll need to be sure that your vision isn't obstructed. A mobile car repair may be cheaper however than having to tow your car to the repair shop.

Diesel Performance Lift Kits and Suspension Upgrades - A Smoother Ride and More Horsepower

There are two main reasons people want performance lift kits for their diesel truck or SUV. The first is an increase in the comfort, traction, fuel efficiency, horsepower and torque, and acceleration of the vehicle, particularly when going off-road. The second reason is, of course, that they can make your diesel vehicle the most impressive looking and sounding beast on the road. With advances in technology and design you don't have to sacrifice one for the other - you can choose the optimal performance upgrades for your truck or SUV, and customise the design to fit any look you want.

Installing a lift kit should be your starting point for any performance upgrades to your diesel truck or SUV. This will raise your suspension and give you more room to work with later, so you have more options for your wheel, engine, and exhaust upgrades. Not only that, a suspension lift kit will also improve your fuel efficiency, and give you a far smoother ride.

Before Installing

Choosing the type of lift kit or suspension work you want done can be tricky. You have to consider not just the model of your vehicle, but also how you plan to use it. If you are using your diesel vehicle for a lot of off-road rock-crawling at low speeds, you'll have a different set of needs to somebody who does a majority of highway or long distance driving. To make the process smoother, make sure you have considered this question before you talk to your mechanic. This is mostly an issue of safety and optimal performance, whatever you plan to use your diesel vehicle for you should be able to customise its look to your preferences.

Installing a Lift Kit

Once you have decided on the appropriate suspension lift kit for your diesel vehicle, it is time to start the installation process. Again, this can be tricky with many factors to consider. Things like the length of your drive shaft, the overhang of your fenders, added air lockers, and the gear ratio in your axels all have to be considered and possibly modified. This is not a task you would want to undertake at home without prior knowledge - finding a reputable auto repair shop and discussing what the process would be for your specific vehicle is the best bet for a novice.

Disadvantages of Suspension Lift Kits

Unfortunately, modifying the suspension in your diesel vehicle does come with some risks. The extra height will change the way you navigate turns, as your centre of gravity will be raised - this can lead to less stability, but can be compensated for once you get a feel for the new handling. The recommended maximum height for lift kits is 4 inches, anything above that will lead to a considerable change in the way your vehicle handles and will take some getting used to.

If you are planning to install larger tyres after your lift kit (and you most likely will be when you see how puny your wheels look under your upgraded suspension), you should be mindful that you will lose some traction when driving at high speeds on the highway. While larger tyres are great for increasing stability in off-road conditions, you will find driving on the road will become slightly more difficult. As with the raise in your centre of gravity, it is nothing that you can't get used to with a little practise.

Body Lifts Vs. Suspension Lifts

This article has been discussing suspension lift kits, designed specifically for those who want to go off-road and get the best performance. A body lift gives you the same aesthetic results as a suspension lift, but won't give you any of the off-road performance benefits. A suspension lift kit will lift the entire frame, power train, and engine on springs to your requested height. A body lift kit will simply raise the body - giving you the same look and customisation options, but without the off-road stability and fuel economy. A body lift is substantially cheaper than a suspension lift, and doesn't require the same level of personalisation and workmanship. So if you aren't going off-road, but do want the look and sound of an off-road rig, a body lift kit may be your best option.

Auto Repair Manuals

If you are an amateur auto mechanic who loves to dig in the car engines until the wee hours while most people are under their blankets, entails the spirit of the "do-it-yourself" -doer and are not afraid to get grease on your hands or if you are in an emergency situation, a very handy resource is the availability of the right auto repair manuals.

There are two types of car repair manuals:

Online downloadable manuals

Printed manuals

Online Manuals

The best thing about online manuals are that whatever manual you'll need for whichever car brand, it is only a few mouse clicks away; you can load it down from the internet in no time.

If the time is a significant factor for you, for instance if you are in a situation that requiers repair information immeadeatlY and your knowledge about the specific problem is limited, the fastest and cheapest solution is to go online to find high quility vehicle repair manuals.

Some of these manuals include not only repair information, but also updated technical service information and some of them even include approximate business hours. This is valuable info if you decide to take your car to a mechanic: You'll know in advance how much you could expect to pay for the repair. Most of these websites charge a minor fee for their service, but compared to what you'll get back, it is worth it.

Good vehichle repair manual sites also features updated diagnostic and maintenance information. Their manuals are Original Service Manuals Written by the manufacturers and contains the original workshop repair descriptions. Therefore many professional auto technicians are using quality downloadable manuals. .

Good manuals contain thousands of pages of diagrams and all the necessary detailed information for the specific vehicle and car part repair.

Printed manuals

I have chosen to make a brief review of three of the best printed motorcar fixing manuals available on the market today. If you chose these instead of the online alternative, expect some time for shipping and handling.

Bentley

• the target is the experienced mechanic, and is considered by many experts as the hands-down best reference.



• probably the most detailed car repair book available



• Unfortunately, Bentley focuses on European models mostly, not US models.

Factory

• The target for these service manuals are factory certified mechanics, and unfortunately not amateurs



• may require access to special tools only available to authorized mechanics.

Chilton

• Simple step-by-step procedures, easy-to-follow standard format
  their targeted audience is the average, general backyard mechanic



• focusing on maintenance and basic repairs



• containing lots of sequential photographs and graphics to simplify maintenance and thus make the job easy and fun.



• new cars are treated with thorough attention. Older cars however, get lumped together and the instructions for these are a little more generalized.

10 Automotive Careers

The Canadian automotive industry is experiencing a shortage of qualified workers. If you love cars and are interested in automotive careers, here are ten auto careers to consider.

1. Quality Control Inspector

In an automotive parts assembly plant, the quality control inspector examines products for defects or blemishes before sending them out to market.

2. New Car Sales Representative

Auto sales training at an auto sales college can help you break into a career as a car salesperson. Top performers can earn as much as $100,000 a year. A certificate from an auto sales college teaches prospective salespeople about the intricacies of today's market, which has undergone a lot of changes in recent years.

3. Collision Estimator

After a car accident, collision estimators are responsible for assessing the level of damage. They prepare reports for:

• repair shops


• car rental companies


• insurance companies

These reports can include:

• repair times


• paint times

Like many auto careers, collision estimating involves the use of specialized industry software, and, therefore, requires some computer skills.

4. Auto Body Technician

Auto careers include auto body specialists who:

• apply anti-rust treatments to cars


• apply undercoats


• match colours


• mix and apply paints

This is one of the automotive careers that calls for:

• attention to detail


• creativity (matching colours, designing and carrying out custom paint jobs).

5. Parts Specialist

This is one of the automotive careers that requires both technical knowledge and customer service skills. Parts specialists help individuals or professionals find the replacement parts they need.

6. CAD Operator

CAD stands for computer-aided design. CAD operators use computer tools to design automobiles and other vehicles.

7. Heavy Duty Equipment Service Technician

There are a range of automotive careers for mechanics. Heavy duty mechanics work in such industries as:

• mining


• forestry


• landscaping

They inspect, diagnose and repair such vehicles as:

• bulldozers


• graders


• loaders


• tractors


• forklifts


• buses


• trucks


• drills

8. Trailer Mechanic

Another one of the possible auto careers for mechanics is trailer mechanic. This kind of mechanic repairs, maintains, rebuilds and overhauls commercial trailers.

Trailer mechanics must understand:

• proper lifting procedures


• preventative maintenance


• brakes


• basic hydraulics


• electrical theory

9. Workshop Foreman

Auto careers also include management positions, such as overseeing the functions in a body shop:

• oversee repairs


• assign work


• oversee productivity


• ensure quality

10. Auto Assembly

Auto assembly encompasses a range of auto careers and includes such tasks as:

• welding


• rust-proofing


• painting

This list is just the beginning. According to the Globe and Mail newspaper, there are 75 cars on the road in Canada for every 100 people aged 16 or over. The high number of cars in this country translates into a high number of automotive careers.

Car Repair Kits - Are They For Me?

Anyone who spends time on the internet will probably notice an increasing number of websites offering all types of do-it-yourself car repair kits aiming at teaching you how to repair your own car.

Of course one has to admit that if this is indeed the case, one stands to benefit a lot out of these kits: no more expensive visits to you corner auto repair shop, no more anxiety on the cause of that funny noise coming out of your bonnet. You know the trick, you fix it, period.
But are things so simple? should you invest money in a car repair kit? Should you learn how to repair your own car?

Of course we all need to know a thing or two about how your battery works or how to replace a flat tyre. But once you decide to learn a bit more than that basic stuff, then things get a little more complex.

I have listed here a few points you will need to remember before you go out and buy yourself a DIY car repair kit.

Safety. Safety that is yours and other road users' is certainly the most important aspect to consider: your life and others is always at stake every time you get behind the wheel. A car needs to be properly maintained in order not to put anyone's life in danger.

A matter of time? Let's face it: we are all already too busy trying to earn a living. Where will you get the extra time to actually sit and learn how to fix your car? Now let's suppose you do have enough time to learn how to fix you car, will you have the time to actually put your new knowledge into practice?

The technology. Gone are the days when auto mechanics were only fixing the mechanic part of your car. Today's cars are a very complex combination of mechanic and electronic. A good mechanic needs to have a working knowledge of these two areas. Chances are the more you will read on fixing cars, the more you will realize you need to learn even more.

The tools Most of internet car repair kits don't come free. Some are being sold as high as a few hundred dollars! But bear in mind too that mechanics professionals requires a very specialized tooling and equipment. So get ready to spend a few more on these!

Introduction to Auto Glass and Windshields

The auto glass found on your vehicle plays a very important role for both you and your vehicle. The windshield in particular provides important structural support for all vehicles. The windows and windshield are made of different types of safety glass, each specially designed to protect you in the event of an accident. In 2002, over 330,000 vehicles were involved in rollover accidents, and the windshields and windows of these vehicles played a vital role in each case.

How is Auto Glass Made?

Laminated Glass

Windshields are made of a completely different type of glass than the rest of the windows found on your vehicle. The windshield uses what is called laminated glass. Used since 1927, laminated glass is created by placing a thin sheet of adhesive plastic between two layers of glass. This transparent plastic is called polyvinyl butyrate, or PVB, and is infused with the glass using extreme pressure and heat. The PVB sheet holds the glass together in the event of impact, and prevents the windshield from shattering. This helps prevent further injury to the occupants that may be caused from the shattered glass.

Tempered Glass

On the other hand, all the remaining windows of your vehicle, including the rear window, are constructed of tempered glass. This tempered glass is manufactured using rapid heating and cooling methods, which strengthen the glass. When the structural stability of tempered glass is compromised, it does not shatter; rather, it breaks into small, pebble-like pieces which are dull, and do not cut like shattered glass.

So what does this mean to you? Well, in a few words, laminated glass is repairable, but tempered glass is not. This is the reason why you see companies that advertise windshield repair, but not window repair.

Windshields

Windshields are a key component to the structural integrity of vehicles. In the event of an accident, the windshield is designed to take the kinetic energy from the impact and disperse it evenly around the passenger compartment of the vehicle, protecting the occupants.

In the event of a rollover, the windshield prevents the roof from collapsing inward into the passenger compartment. In some vehicles, the windshield can provide up to 50% of the auto's rollover strength.

Windshields are also designed to operate in conjunction with your vehicle's airbags. Properly installed windshields provide support to the back of the airbag, sustaining it and allowing it to fully deploy into the occupant compartment, rather than into the dash.

Know About Windshield Repair Technology And Tools

When it comes to differentiate between the windshield repair and replacement jobs, the fact is that the repair costs a fraction of replacements. Some auto service providers purposely suggest the car owners to go for replacements so that they can earn extra money. In fact, a small chip or crack can be easily repaired. This is the reason why it is said to acquire assistance of a professional auto service provider.

Leading auto glass repair experts are known to offer their services based on advanced auto glass repair technology and innovative tools. Individuals can go through this article to know more about such technology and tools that are getting used by the experts nowadays. Please go through the following points.

Glass technology

Modern technology based repair kits are available and the kit comes with a simple switch. The switch is designed to offer consistent repair whenever required. It also comes featured with a built-in rechargeable 12 volt battery and the kit is designed to make up to three repairs simple at the same time. One of the quality aspects is that it supports direct air to air exchange and this method is observed as more functional than the method of pulling the air with the use of resin. The pressure used in the method helps in filling the damaged area in a less time.

PRISM technology

One of the advanced glass technologies is the PRISM technology that stands for Pre Resin Injection Suspension Method. A side resin chamber is utilized by the technology that supports dry vacuum. Dry vacuum is considered as an essential step before resin is put in the break. Another quality aspect of the technology is that it utilizes a stainless steel Prism injector to support strong vacuum needs for the repair task. The injection system offers more quality repair results as compared to different hand-operated tools.

Long crack resin technology

A long crack resin is developed to achieve better results for correcting long cracks or chips in the windshield. In fact, the application of resin can enhance the tensile strength of the car glass but the strength factor depends on the type of glass used. The kind of resin is thin, durable and is very easy to use. It can be used easily to any kind of tough chip or cracks. The technology also offers enough holding power to the glass.

One of the best ways to maintain the value of vehicles is to opt for quality auto glass services for any kind of windshield repair or replacement tasks. By repairing the glass area that actually needs fixing, one can help in maintaining the overall structural integrity of vehicles. The fact is that a sub-standard repair service can cut down the life of the glass to a greater extent.

Auto Repairs Should Be Left to Professionals

When it comes to auto repairs, some people opt to take the cheap way out. In other words, they get assistance from people who aren't certified professionals. This may seem like a good idea, especially when they find someone who will charge them half of what a professional would. Little do they know, taking the cheap route isn't always the best decision.

One reason it's best to go to a professional for auto repairs is that they have all of the proper equipment. When working on a vehicle, it takes more than a wrench and a few screws. There are certain pieces of equipment that are needed for particular issues. In other words, what's needed to replace tires is totally different from what's needed to fix a dent. An amateur most likely doesn't have direct access to all of the different specialized tools that are needed. This could severely compromise the quality of their work.

Now, some may say all the person has to do is go and purchase the parts if they don't have them handy. This is a true statement. However, even with all of the right parts, this doesn't make them professionals all of a sudden. So, they could have the best parts in the world, but that doesn't automatically increase their skill level and ability. Their inexperience and limited knowledge could even cause them to use some of the parts incorrectly. So, it's best to go to someone with the proper equipment as well as the right amount of experience.

Another reason it's best to go to a specialist for auto repairs is that they offer a warranty. This is extremely important because it ensures that the vehicle owner is protected in the unfortunate case that something goes wrong with the repair. No matter how great and skillful a mechanic may be, they might still make mistakes. So, it's always best to have some type of protection.

On the other hand, an uncertified person usually doesn't offer a warranty. Therefore, if the repair goes wrong prematurely, there's really nothing the owner can do to be compensated for the issue.

Contrary to what some people may believe, auto repairs should be completed by certified professionals. This helps to give the vehicle owner a better chance of getting high quality work done on their automobile. It also gives them an opportunity to be protected if something prematurely goes wrong with the repair. Although it may not be an attractive idea financially, it is the best route to take when all is said and done.

Bloordale Village - Toronto's Up-And-Coming Artsy Neighbourhood

For the urbanite that's wanting to live not far from downtown Toronto, what a neighbourhood has to offer is becoming more important than ever. In addition to house pricing, it's often a lifestyle choice that makes the decision for those planning a move. There is a strong difference found in communities, from their character to physical landscape.

As gentrification moves across the city and touches grungy and worn looking areas, a vibe and excitement possesses these hoods as a new energy and development takes hold.

One such up-and-coming area in west-end Toronto is the Bloordale Village hood which is part of the Dovercourt-Wallace Emerson Junction district. Running along Bloor Street from the Lansdowne subway station to the Dufferin station and tucked along the Junction Triangle, this strip of Bloor is becoming known as a hub for an exciting art scene that is taking shape.

Art studios and galleries are being transformed from once unoccupied industrial and retail buildings, into cool and edgy spaces. The Daniel Faria Gallery is now sleek and contemporary, where once being home to an Auto Body Shop. The gallery represents a small number of select reputable artists and with its out-of- the-way location, becomes an even more hip and exciting find. Another hidden gem is the Scrap Metal Gallery, found in an industrial building on a small dead-end street, accessed through an alleyway to the rear. Rare to Toronto, it's a non-commercial gallery with a private art collection displayed. Bringing international contemporary art to Toronto is Tomorrow Gallery, located in another cool warehouse found off the main beat. The Mercer Union, an artist-run centre that features both national and international artists, moved into this gentrifying hood in back in 2009, from its downtown location. Across the street is found the Toronto Free Gallery, a not-for-profit art space that highlights exhibits which show collaboration between creative groups ranging from visual artists to urban planners. With a Bohemian type allure, these New York "Chelsea" type galleries are adding to this area's artsy mystique.

With a creative draw to the neighbourhood, shabby chic restaurants and shops are opening their doors to the young group of hipsters that are attracted to this edgy hood. Strolling down the street, it's enticing to drop into the ice cream parlour, Lansdowne Cone for unique flavours that are offered. Locals can choose from a number of eateries from Zocalo with a casual menu to Bloordale Pantry's vintage diner. Nothing says hip and urban more than spending a few hours with your friends over a glass of wine and playing board games at the local watering holes Drift and Three Speed. Giving a new meaning to recycling, the new style of d矇cor is incorporating vintage and reclaimed pieces, such as bowling alley wood used as a bar top and pint taps made from an old Electrolux vacuum. The local hipsters moving into the nearby condos, townhouses and houses are looking to compliment their pads with a blend of contemporary and fun furniture. They're also doing their shopping in the hood and finding treasures in such shops as Style Studio and Pimlico Design Gallery for unique one-of-a-kind pieces.

The landscape of Bloordale Village in places is still a little drab, which has kept the housing prices affordable and yet given that edgy vibe that young hipsters love. It's a great opportunity for those looking for a neighbourhood that is on the subway line and minutes from downtown Toronto.

Like many of Toronto's neighbourhoods, Bloordale Village has a yearly street festival called "Big on Bloor Festival", where during the July weekend it becomes a car-free zone with music, live performances, vendors and dance, celebrating the area's art culture and community.

The Bloordale Village vibe is full of energy and creativity drawing like-minded people, wanting to work and live in this hood. As this artsy hood grows, new arrivals to the scene will add to its welcoming transformation.

Using Auto Body Shops to Save Money

Auto body parts are commodities, which have demands occasionally. Regardless of whether you own a car, truck or a motorcycle these requirements will always arise when you want to fix up your vehicle that has had a recent crash or restore a part, which is broken. Most people like to repair their vehicle with good parts. There are ways to find economical and affordable auto parts for your car.

Buy Used Parts

A clever way to save money on car parts or motorcycle parts is to purchase them second-hand. These items can be used or redecorated which permits the person to save funds, yet still get a quality body part. Second-hand parts can be purchased through auto garages or even in some of the auto body shops, which sell old parts. Just make sure that quality of the used part is appreciable, though not bad. Ensure that it will be a fitting addition to the automobile and is in good enough shape to be used in your auto.

Buy Auto Parts in Bulk

If you find that you need multiple auto parts for your car, truck or motorcycle, try to buy them in sufficient numbers. Buying auto parts in bulk will help one to attain the necessary and important parts, which always have demand in the market. From an economical point of view, one might be exempted from heavy priced invoices too. Bulk discounts are often tagged with different auto parts stores. Check out bulk rates and always prefer to get the parts in bulk from an auto body shop at a low-priced rate.

Shop Auto Store Sales

Often auto parts stores will have seasonal sales on the items, which they deal. The items that are widely offered in the auto body shops, are the one of high demand and, hence are naturally expensive.In order to facilitate the potential buyers, various off season sales are carried out by, the prominent spare part manufacturers. You may not be able to find precisely what you have to purchase on sale however this is always an alternative to think and ask about. The parts will be offered at a discounted rate through coupons available in auto body shops. Therefore make inquiries with the manufacturer or look on their website for coupons before heading out to the auto parts store.

Quality of the parts sold by the auto body shop should not be compromised for the budget that one allocates for buying spare parts for his auto. Persisting on using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts will make sure that the repair job is completed perfectly, and you start to fly off with a vehicle that is dazzling with new makeover.

A Break Repair Job Is Needed If You Are Hearing Noises

Everyone knows what a hassle it is to be driving a car and all of a sudden you go to make a sudden stop, only to hear that dreaded squealing and screeching sound. You roll down your window, hoping that sound is coming from the vehicle that is next to you. Naturally while you are hoping that sound you heard is not from your own car, the flow of traffic starts to pick up and you are no longer at a standstill. Since traffic is now moving smoothly, you have forgotten about what was giving you a pause for concern. A few days pass by and you haven't paid attention to your vehicle or made any more sudden stops that would make you suspect that something is wrong. The longer you continue to drive and not have your vehicle looked at; you may be causing a bigger problem to arise.

You may not know it, but that high pitched squealing sound you heard a few days ago was the sound of your brakes screaming for your attention. Although you may have been on the lookout for the feel of grinding brakes, you need to also be on the look for any high-pitched noises that may occur when you are coming to a stop. If you experience any changes in the way your vehicle brakes when you make a stop, you need to take your car to a brake repair shop right away.

There is nothing to gain by ignoring your brakes and assuming that you can wait until the last minute to get them fixed. By doing so, you are causing a significant amount of damage to your car, in particularly your brake system. What was once a cheap repair is now going to be a more expensive brake repair job.

Taking your vehicle to a brake repair shop doesn't have to be a task that you keep putting off. If you keep up with how far you drive your vehicle, you can time when you need to go to a brake repair shop, instead of being forced to go when it is most inconvenient for you.

Keeping your vehicle in excellent condition is the best way you can keep your vehicle working properly. The last thing you want to happen is an accident where you are deemed to be at fault because you had faulty brakes. There is also the big risk you take by driving around in less than pleasing weather conditions where it is imperative that your car and all of its functions are up to par. Don't play Russian roulette with yours or anyone else's lives. You would never be able to forgive yourself, should the worst-case scenario happen. There is also the fact that you would have to pay any other involved parties compensation for any damages your car caused.

Do what is right and the next time you hear a weird sound from your vehicle or it doesn't perform as it is supposed to, take your car in to get it checked and repaired.

Reasons For Tinting Your Car Windows

More and more vehicle owners are having their automobile windows tinted. While this may seem like just an appearance enhancement, there are many practical reasons why many consumers are opting to tint their car windows.

For example, did you know that tinted window film could significantly reduce heat inside a car during the summer months by up to 60 percent? That's because the tinted window film stops 99 percent of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays from entering the car. So not only is your car protected from excess heat, but it is also protected from the light rays that cause interior damage, such as color fading, cracking and warping on the upholstery, leather or plastic trim.

Would you believe that tinted auto glass film would actually protect you and your passengers if you were in an accident? During an accident, the tint film prevents the glass from shattering and flying through the air. The tint film holds the broken glass in place, keeping the driver and passengers safe from glass-related injuries.

Furthermore, tinted vehicle windows help promote safe driving, reducing the glare from the sun and oncoming headlights. This keeps the driver safer because he or she can keep his or her eyes on the road at all times without having to squint or look away due to bright glares.

Another practical reason for having your car windows tinted is increased privacy. Tinted windows prevent burglars and criminals from seeing inside your vehicle, making it more secure and less likely to be broken into. This is especially beneficial for those who routinely park their car in areas of high criminal activity. The car is less likely to be broken into if the thief can't see anything on the inside.

A reputable automobile glass tinting shop will use the highest quality tinting film for your vehicle, and will also provide you with a warranty for anywhere from five years to ten years. The more experienced the tinting installers are, and the higher quality tint film you purchase, will determine how long the window tinting film lasts. You should never attempt to tint your own windows, especially if you have no experience. Furthermore, the window tints available to consumers are very low quality. The professionals should always be sought out to install car window tinting. This will avoid the bubbling and peeling of the tint film after a short period of time.

When the tinting adhesive does eventually break down and begin to bubble, the professionals will remove it. This process can be excruciating for the average consumer to do on their own, but the pros at the auto glass shop have the know how and experience to get it done within a few hours and have the glass prepped for brand new tinting.

Many states have laws regulating the grade of tinting one is permitted to have. The auto glass tinting shop will be able to provide you with the tinting style you desire within your state's regulations.

The practical reasons to have your car windows tinted far outweigh the option to keep the non-tinted auto glass. You'll be safer and more comfortable, and your car will be more secure.

How Car Mechanics Use Technology

Do you know why it's important to find a good mechanic or a good repair shop to repair your car? The reason: it could save you hundreds of dollars in parts and labor! When we say a "good mechanic" or a "good repair shop", we're referring to mechanics who are equipped with the latest technology. You don't want to entrust your car to a shop with outdated machinery and equipment because it will take longer to arrive at a diagnosis. And the longer a mechanic takes to make a diagnosis, the larger your bill for labor!

Remember that car mechanics charge by the hour.

Car repairs can cover any one or a combination of the following (note that this is not a complete repair list).

• Air conditioning checks
• Air bag checks
• Electrical wiring
• Cables
• Clutch service and repair
• Transmission repair
• Wheel Alignment
• Suspension
• Brakes
• Heating system
• Oil and lubrication
• Battery
• Power windows

Much of the troubleshooting that mechanics use to diagnose a problem is facilitated by car repair technology.

Ever noticed how some lights on your panel come on when something's wrong? In most cases, an experienced mechanic will know immediately what the problem is, but there are instances where it will take sophisticated technology to lead to an accurate diagnosis.

Sophisticated technology comes in many forms and one popular one is troubleshooting software. Companies like Auto Tech have a software program that car owners can use to find out what is ailing their vehicle.

Most car owners who were cynical about software programs before should seriously consider purchasing a reliable car troubleshooting software program. For instance, some programs start out by asking you to input your car make and model number, the year of the car and what kinds of equipment it has. The software features a large database of information about all cars in the market and a car owner simply follows the steps when prompted. It employs what the industry calls a "tree diagnosis" where logical steps take you through the entire diagnosis process.

After you've keyed in your car's profile, you use the drop down menu to choose the symptoms that your car is exhibiting. For instance, if you choose "squealing brakes", the program mimics the squealing of brakes and if that's the sound you hear, you confirm it and the program recommends a series of steps.

You may not really want to use a troubleshooting software, but imagine how much time and money you could save if you spoke to the mechanic intelligently, letting him know that you're in the know.

Students who are studying towards certification buy certain tools of the trade. A couple of examples are Snap On and Mac Tools. These two are the most popular in the United States and Canada.

Mechanics now have a wide range of technology tools to help them understand car problems better: digital multimeters (electronic measuring), boroscopes (testing heat exchangers), fuel diagnostic testers (testing and balancing fuel injectors) and other such new technologies.

New car mechanic technologies help shorten the learning curve and speed up diagnosis so that the car owner isn't saddled with too many labor hours.

Take the Scare Out of Auto Repair

How many times have you gone on a long trip and were not quite comfortable with the condition of your vehicle, but you went anyway? Or how many times have you stayed up late worrying about your college student who loves to do "road-trips" with their friends? Have you ever had a spouse that commuted to school in the evenings, or maybe your job takes you over thirty minutes away from home? These are the many questions that most Americans encounter on a weekly basis.

When it comes to auto repair or maintenance to your vehicle it can be not only frustrating, but also time consuming. No one wants to get ripped off or taken advantage of, so making sure you get quality help is vital. Whether you are looking for imported or domestic parts, auto repair can be made easy with simple access to the internet and a few sensible tips.

With the use of the internet daunting topics such as car maintenance can be explained to even the uninformed novice. Normally electrical systems, computerized parts, or exhaust systems can prove complicated and costly to the consumer, but with the internet you can locate dealers or retailers near you and compare services and prices. When dealing with your mechanic and your car expenses be sure to inform yourself on price comparisons, news and reports, performance data, and reputable businesses in your area before give approval on your repairs.

If you are really ambitious you can even access tons of software specifically for auto repair. Many software systems provide an auto repair program designed to be easy in use and extremely powerful, and tailored to your specific vehicle make and model. These programs can help you keep track of your auto repair expenses, remind you of up coming scheduled maintenance and relay any recall information to you. A good beginning to avoid auto repair rip offs is to be prepared. Know how your vehicle works and learn what options and features your vehicle is equipped with. The owner manual is the best place to start, but unfortunately selfdom consulted.

If learning the basics from the comfort of your home is the best choice for you, then hop online and find automotive learning programs on the web. Avoid the sales pitches and over priced repairs. How many times have you run around town only to end up with an a state of frustration because you just needed a simple quote? With many of the online learning programs you can answer your questions about auto repair in a fast and efficient manner, and take out the headaches that tend to plague you in the process. What better way to handle a potential problem in your future?

So whether you are faced with regular maintenance of your vehicle, such as changing those worn-out tires, or a complex electrical repair you can find your solution with the internet. Take the scare out of auto repair, and educate yourself today. You will be glad you did. It is all within your grasp if you are willing to move from where you are today, to where you want to be!

Car Repair - Tip For Finding The Right Shop

At some point it happens to all of us. Your most valuable and needed asset, your car, needs a car repair job.

If you don't have a go to car repair guy on speed dial you may go into a panic. How do you start? Where do you find a trusted mechanic when you're not in a position to shop around? A good place to start is by getting referrals from friends or family members who have a car similar to yours.

With so many makes and models of cars on the market today, it can be hard to find a mechanic that knows American cars as well as foreign made models so it helps to get a referral to a mechanic who you know works on your type of car. Even if you're in a time crunch don't skimp on doing some basic checking. Call the Better Business Bureau or check their web site online and make sure the mechanic shop your interested in, doesn't have a laundry list of complaints against them.

Ask if the car repair shop is accredited. This association can often offer member a discount at certain hotels, or auto repair shops. If you're a member, it never hurts to ask if the shop gives discounts for your membership.

And of course you want to make sure your mechanic is as skilled and up to date on their training as possible so ask if the mechanic is certified by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Before you have any car repair work done ask what their warranty policy is. You should have a warranty on parts as well as a separate warranty on workmanship. A six month warranty is unbeatable, a 90 day warranty is great and a 30 day warranty on workmanship is suspect. Make sure any warranty on parts and workmanship comes in writing so you can bring it back if you have a problem, with no questions asked.

And get any estimates in writing and make sure your mechanic understands if you want to be called if the work will go over that estimated price. If you're on a really tight budget with very little room for wiggle, you need to be upfront with the mechanic and let them know you can't go above the estimate.

Finally check the shops hours and make sure you can get your car back when it's ready for pick up. If you're at work until five o'clock and they close at five, you may be hard pressed to get to your car in time. You should also ask if you can get a loaner while they have your car and check your insurance policy to see if a loaner is covered for car repair.

Changing Oil and Changing Times - The Independent Auto Repair Service Dilemma

If you see fewer auto repair shops in your area then you are witnessing a trend that is spreading throughout the auto repair industry. The small independent auto repair shop is getting squeezed by both the dealers and the 'backyarders' creating shrinking margins and putting many auto repair independents out of business.

The global problem is the auto repair and service market has been shrinking in the last ten or fifteen years. Technology has made cars much more reliable with fewer breakdowns, repairs and scheduled maintenances.

Many manufacturers offer some sort of 100,000 mile warranty meaning that the independent will get little chance to work on that car for the first 5-10 years it is owned.

As new car sales margins have gone down, VW, Chevrolet, Toyota and other manufacturers are looking to their service departments to make up the difference.

Additionally many dealers such as Porsche and Saab have been adding other value added benefits such as a loaner car while repairs are being made. Independents are now being forced to give courtesy rides to customers in an effort to keep up with the dealers since customers now expect this service.

Furthermore dealers such as Mercedes and Ford are now directly offering specials on services making their dealer prices comparable to independent repair shop prices.

But it's not just competitive pricing that is worrying the independents.

The battle for skilled labor is also being won by the dealers: the dealers have always competed for skilled labor and now have become even more aggressive. With fewer young people entering the auto repair profession and opting instead for careers such as health and technology, the total talent pool of the top skilled auto technicians is shrinking.

Increasingly it is becoming harder for independents to hire and retain these highly skilled employees. As an automotive technician, would you rather work for Audi or Joe's Garage?

The dealers are picking up the best 'mechanics' or as they are known today, 'technicians.' A top end dealer technician can make $100,000 a year with benefits while an independent shop owner would have to gross over a $1,000,000 a year to make that and still have to pay for their own benefits and social security.

Because of these economic realities many independent owners are now closing their shops and going to work for GM, Nissan and other dealers.

This puts the independent auto repair shop at a distinct disadvantage when diagnosing and repairing difficult drivability, fuel injection, electronic and computer related problems.

Additionally, if a diagnosis is made and a part needs replacing the dealer will have it in stock, not only verifying the diagnosis but greatly speeding up the repair time and increasing customer satisfaction. Big advantage Cadillac and Mercedes.

But it's not just a skilled employee war. Techs cannot fix cars without information and there has been a long and ongoing dispute between the dealers/manufacturers and independents over technical information access and diagnostic tools.

The manufacturers claim that their technical information is proprietary while the independents claim the information should be available to anyone that owns or fixes that make of car.

If the dealers wanted to they could stop all outside repairs on their vehicles but the problem is there are not enough dealerships to service all geographic areas, especially smaller towns and less populated areas. So the manufacturer/dealer gives out some information but not all, often charging the independent repair shops for this information.

Not only does the independent have to buy some parts from the dealer, but also some of the technical information as well. Big advantage Honda and Dodge.

Some independent owners simply watch their business steadily decline over the years as they go out of business. Younger independent owners are willing to work harder and for less financial reward hoping industry conditions will eventually improve.

In essence the independent auto repair industry has matured and is now in a decline. Some consolidation is going on but much of the repair work has either disappeared or is now being done by the dealers, auto repair chains or one person 'backyard' shops.

The opportunities are there for those that want to work hard but those opportunities are increasingly limited. In a declining market, only those independents that can develop new competitive strategies will survive and thrive.

As with all mature and declining markets there will be new opportunities for those owners that can adapt and make the changes. Those independent auto repair shop owners that don't modernize, strategize and compete will go the way of the Edsel and Model T.