Windshield Repair - An Important Service Of Auto Body Repair

When talking about collision and auto body repair, a lot of discussion revolves around paints, component repair or replacement, body straightening and panel alignment. But one aspect of auto body repair that shops may be forgetting is the windshield and window glass on cars.

Although there are a lot of DIY products out on the market for windshield repair, there are still a lot of cases when the damage to the glass requires replacement. There are many specialized service shops that offer windshield repair and replacement, but for auto body and collision repair shops, replacing windshields is a step in auto body repair that can be turned into a full-fledged service. After all, the skills and knowledge needed to replace a windshield are already there, as are the linkages to windshield suppliers, so what's to keep an auto body repair shop from offering this additional service? It may turn out to be an important profit center for the business.

While daring to repair small cracks in their car's windshields themselves, most car owners are prudent enough to know that extensive damage requires replacement glass. They also know that this job is best left to skilled professionals as botched jobs will result in a leaky windshield or induce wind noise at highway speeds. And in case of a severe accident, a resulting rollover may actually crush the roof as modern windshield installations use this component as part of a car's crash protection feature. Try removing the urethane adhesive bonding the windshield to the frame and you'll understand what we're talking about. If insurance investigators discover such a defective repair, you may even get a claim denial.

Speaking of insurance, a shop can inform its customers that most comprehensive policies allow for replacement of the windshield in case it's damaged and needs replacement. Even if the customer has to shell out a small amount, the auto body repair shop needs to explain that the windshield is an important safety component and no compromise should be considered in that regard. If necessary, show the customer those online videos which show a small nicked windshield developing severe fractures the instant the car goes through a pothole or even a speed bump. Current industry standards use windshields made from damage-resistant laminated glass consisting of 2 layers of glass plus a layer of polyvinyl butyrate (PVB). When impacted by debris, sharp pieces of glass will adhere to the PVB layer, thereby reducing the danger from flying glass. The polyvinyl butyrate layer in laminated glass also has a cushioning effect, helping protect a car's occupants during collisions.

Some auto body repair shops have started looking at other integrated services to offer, in order to improve their revenue streams. Without needing to invest in new equipment or skills, auto body repair shops can add windshield repair services to their list of offerings.

Air Compressor - Don't Buy One Before You Read This

It is extremely important to choose the right piece of equipment for your business, whatever tool it is you need or whatever the customer's demands are, it's a choice that needs to be done with care. Most automotive repair centers want to make the right decision in this area.

When considering on getting an air compressor for your automotive repair center there are several key aspects you should take into mind. You want to look at how reliable the machine is. Is your model one that needs repair right away? What is the average shelf life of such a machine?

You also want to look at it's strength. What capacity will the machine handle? What capacity do you need the machine to handle? Does it have the right amount of horsepower for your customer's needs?

There are air compressors that have high efficiency inter-coolers, high efficiency inlet air filters with sound attenuation baffles, and what it all comes down to in less technical jargon, an amazing piece of equipment that will make your technician's job much simpler, and most importantly, most efficient.

Ease of operation is also an often overlooked factor when buying an air compressor. Most people don't know where to start when operating the equipment. You have to think about who will be operating the machinery. Will the machine you buy take too much time for you to train someone to use? Will you be able to master it and it's operation in the shortest time possible?

Many times, most people think that the more complex an air compressor is, the better off they will be. They believe that the more pieces it has, the higher the probabilities the equipment has of performing a good job. What many people do not know is that it depends on the scenario because in many cases that is not true. Sometimes it's best to have a simpler machine since it actually has less moving parts. This decreases the odds of a breakdown and substantially improves the machine's reliability.

Surely you don't want the wrong piece of equipment for your business. Considering all these factors when owning an air compressor and taking into account the fact that you want to provide the most efficient, the fastest, and the smoothest job for your customers is a key element of owning a successful auto repair shop, or anything related, especially if you want repeat business.

Make a smart decision. One that will turn your business into a top-notch center for any kind of automotive repair needs. Choose the right air compressor, one that will endure for years to come, not to mention to also satisfy all your customer's needs.

Replacing An Alternator - How To Know When The Alternators Bad And Take It Out

Alternators are parts on a car that are absolutely necessary for charging your battery. Back in older times they used to be called generators, but now alternators are parts that power your battery when the car is running and allow your car to charge up when it needs to. If the alternator is bad your car's not going to get the charge it needs and as a result the battery's going to go dead pretty quickly.

How To Diagnose A Bad Alternator

If the alternator's bad your battery light's going to go on pretty fast. This is a red light that's shaped like and that looks like a battery. This indicates that your battery's not getting charged with new power when the cars running and pretty soon your car will sap all of it's power. Even if you get a jump, it'll go dead soon after if it's the alternator because there's nothing charging the car any longer.

While seeing if the battery light on the dashboard is on is a good way to check if it's the alternator, probably the best way is to get a jump and see if the car continues to run and charge up. If the car's battery dies again soon after while it's running, it's very likely the alternator, if not, it may be something else.

Removing The Alternator And Getting Ready To Install A New One

In order to replace or rebuild the alternator, you'll have to take it out. This might seem like a daunting task but it can actually be very easy if you know what you're doing. In some cars the alternator is at the top of everything, and there's no need to take anything else out or move anything before you decide to take the alternator out. In other cars the alternator is under many other parts, in these cases it's very important to keep a log of what goes where and make sure that you remember how you removed everything that's blocking your access to the alternator and of course how it goes back in.

When taking out the alternator, loosen the belt by loosening the belt tensioner, if you have a serpentine belt. Once the serpentine belt is loose, if you have one, then remove the bolts that are holding the alternator in by turning them counterclockwise with a fitting rachet and socket set or a box wrench. Once the bolts are loose and have been removed, sometimes the alternators still stuck in place just from being there for so long. Use some old fashion strength and wiggle it out, pull until it comes out and use some WD-40 or other lubricating fluid if necessary to get the old alternator out.

Pony Up for the Oil Changes

When was the last time you the reader of this article had your vehicle serviced by a professional automotive technician? Chances are many readers haven't had their vehicles serviced at all much less by a professional who will check much more than fluid levels. Many automobile manufacturers today tout extended intervals for vehicle maintenance and services, but none of these manufacturers can boast elimination of the need. That's right readers you absolutely must service and maintain your vehicles if they are to last and provide the advertised purpose of the vehicle. Maintenance and service are much more than changing the oil and rotating the tires, although these two things are an absolute bare minimum for automotive care. Oil and tire service will extend the life and fuel economy of your vehicle which will ultimately put money in your pocket.

Changing the oil in your vehicle can be a costly function with the synthetic and synthetic blend oils of today. Conventional oil for that matter is quite a bit more expensive today than it was say four years ago. Regardless of the cost and type of oil in your vehicle, there is no more important maintenance function than the changing of the oil and filter for your vehicles engine. Conventional oils still require a change at 3000 miles or 3 months whichever occurs first, and this interval applies to most drivers. There are other intervals for different driving habits and conditions, but the previous works for most people. The synthetics and synthetic blends can extend these intervals to as much as 10,000 miles and 6 to 12 months dependent upon vehicle type, driving habits and conditions.

It is the opinion of this author that maintaining the tires for your vehicle is second only to changing the engine oil and filter. I say tire maintenance is second because your tires won't matter if your engine quits. Your tires should be rotated at each oil change but every other oil change will work as well. Proper tire inflation is essential for the tires to perform as advertised. There is one drawback to having your tires rotated and the air pressure checked during the oil change. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold which ideally is first thing in the morning. Unfortunately, even dedicated professional automotive technicians can error and make this check when the tires are hot. Checking and adjusting the tire pressure when tires are hot can lead to an over or under inflation scenario. Usually it is the latter. The air in the tires expands when the tires are hot and some technicians will let this air out which results in an incorrect pressure. The pressure differential can be in excess of 5 pounds in some cases. Remember, low tire pressure equal poor fuel economy.

I said before that many owners don't have their vehicles serviced at all much less by professional auto technicians and this is true and important. Routine oil changes and tire rotations can be handled by most service centers such as your local Walmart etc. (This author purchases all tires from Walmart along with the warranty plan. The warranty plan includes lifetime rotation and balance. I am trying to sell you on Walmart but you just can't beat the convenience. I go there to shop and get my vehicle serviced while shopping.) Remember to re-check your tire pressure in the morning to ensure proper pressure.

The professional automotive technician should not be ignored. All vehicle owners should have their vehicles checked out thoroughly by a pro at least annually. Professionals find the things the lube tech missed or created and can keep you and your loved ones safe.

Things to remember from this article:

Change your oil as directed by the vehicle manufacturer usually every 3 months or 3000 miles
Check your tire pressure monthly (cold in the morning) or at least when you change your oil
Let a professional inspect your vehicle annually it will give you piece of mind

Car LED Lamps - Why They Are Considered As the Best Lighting for Cars

The discovery of light emitting diodes (LED) has really helped to enhance lighting systems in homes and offices. Today, this innovative technology has been extended to automobiles as the use of car LED lamps is being adopted for many vehicles. Here are some reasons why they have been considered as good alternatives to other kinds of car lighting.

In simple terms, a LED is a solid state device; it is typically a semi-conductor which produces glow on the passage of electric current through it. In comparison to incandescent or halogen bulbs, car LED lamps consume low energy, thus ensuring longer battery life for your car. For instance, your car battery won't run flat if you mistakenly leave the headlamps on. It's been found out that light emitting diodes can last long for about 10 years. Also, they instantly reach their highest level of brightness when you switch them on.

Furthermore, LEDs have proven to help in reducing the chances of road accidents. For instance, the use of Daylight Running Lamps (DRL) is already legislated in some parts of Europe with a view to improving on road safety during the hours of the day. As a result, latest passenger vehicles are fitted with DRLs which have LED functionality.

These days, you would find out that both new and several old car models have opted for these retro-fit DRLs since the vehicle owners like the functional, the aesthetic as well as the stylish benefits that bright white car LED lamps usually offer to a car. In addition, because of the technicalities involved in many car lighting systems, it often costs more money to have a bulb changed in your car through the help of an auto mechanic. On the other hand, if your car has LED lamps, you can be able to change them as at when necessary.

Similarly, a number of fleet owners now opt for light emitting diodes as an efficient alternative to save money that may arise from frequent flat batteries or the need to change lamps frequently due to burn-outs. Therefore, LEDs are far better than the traditional incandescent car lamps.

In recent times, as the popularity of LED bulbs gains a tremendous increase, there has been a drastic drop in their prices. They are quite affordable for all motorists. Besides, there has been a significant improvement in the solid state technology being used to produce them.

In all, vehicle owners can now make use of this low-cost lighting option which offers efficiency in energy consumption and increased visibility. Owing to the advantages of light emitting diodes, many car owners can now boast of an improved motoring experience in both day and night times. Indeed, it's becoming clear that car LED lamps will become the industrial standards for automobiles in the nearest future.

Tips For Changing Wiper Blades

Changing the wiper blades on your car is one of those little activities that look harder than it really is. At first it can be confusing as to how in the world to get those things off and back on again. Once you actually make it through the process once you will be laughing at how easy it really is. Keep an eye on your wiper blades and plan to change them as soon as you notice serious wear and lessening wiper quality.

Start off by planning to change your wiper blades on a sunny day. Don't head out when gray clouds are passing over or you will likely get caught in the rain. If you know they need to be changed, it just makes sense not to wait until you need them to do it. Being stuck on the side of the road or late when you have somewhere important to be is not worth putting it off.

Pull the windshield wiper so that it stands straight out away from the windshield. Look at it closely until you find the little tab that when depressed, releases the wiper. Be careful but don't be afraid of wrecking it. Those wipers take quite a beating from the weather at times.

Pinpoint the small tab and then press it. The entire wiper should be released now so that you can easily pull it right out. Be careful when you do this so that nothing comes into contact with the windshield glass. That could result in a scratch or even a crack. Once the rubber wiper is off, it will be metal underneath. Keep the wiper arm standing upright.

If you need to walk away from the car or attend to something else, carefully lay the wiper arm down against the glass so that it will not become knocked down. When you are ready, examine the new wiper to determine which end slides on first. It should be apparent. Be careful to line it up properly.

Slide the new wiper along the metal arm until you reach the end. You should be able to click it in easily where the tab is. If it doesn't work you may have it backwards and should double check how you are putting the wiper on. The wiper blade packaging may have photos showing which end to put on first so check that if you are not sure you're doing it right.

When you get the wiper blade clicked back in with the tab, give it a wiggle to make certain that it is on tight. The last thing you need is for that thing to go flying off in traffic somewhere while you're driving. When it's on tight, then you know that is had been done correctly.

Of course before you can get started, you need to be sure that you have purchased the right wiper blades for your car. They come in various sizes and shapes so always check the package before you buy. Getting the wrong size will result in a trip back to the store. Changing your wiper blades is not all that hard and will save you time and trouble in the future.

Brake Repair - Tips Before You Get Your Brakes Fixed

If you are a driver, you will need to get your brakes repaired eventually. Many brake repair jobs are affordable, but even those that are not will be necessary to get your vehicle road ready. So, if your brakes are squeaking, moaning, grinding, or not functioning well, you need to take your vehicle to an experienced mechanic. A brake repair mechanic will inspect your brake system and give you proper advice. If you want to be safe on the road, it is essential that you get your brakes inspected once or twice a year. If you don't, you could have serious problems. Your brakes need to be in good working order because you need them to stop on the road. A good technician will also clean your brakes and make sure they are dust-free and working properly.

Your brake pads need to get replaced in time because they get worn out. If you are on a budget, find out if the auto service center in your area sells cheap, generic brake pads. Generic brake pads are safe, but they may be noisier than name brand brake pads. If you want make-specific brake pads for your car, you should contact your dealership.

Before a brake repair technician begins to work on your car, ask a few questions. Find out exactly what will be done to your car. Find out how long the repair will take and how much it is going to cost you. Get a written estimate that lists all the fees you will be required to pay if you need to. No work should be done on your car unless you have authorized it first.

Before you get your brakes repaired, find out if the auto repair service center offers a warranty on the work. If you have a warranty and the work did not fix your problem, the shop will fix the problem at no cost to you. If you are offered a warranty, find out if you can get it in writing. You should also find out how long the warranty is good for.

When you look over the bill, review it carefully. Make sure you know what you are paying for. If something is not right, speak up about it.

Don't drive with worn out pads for a long time, because that will do a lot of damage to your rotors. If you never drive with worn out pads, your rotors should last you a lifetime.

When you visit a brake repair technician, make sure he also checks your brake fluid. The fluid is an essential part of the whole system's operation and it needs to be changed periodically. You can prevent major problems by getting it changed from time to time. You should also purchase some of the fluid to keep in your car, and check the fluid level weekly. There are many different kinds of brake fluid, so if you don't know which is best for your car, ask an experienced technician, check your car's owner manual, or call your dealership.

You should always use your car's brakes responsibly. Don't apply a lot of pressure to them when you don't need to. You should also avoid carrying around a lot of weight in the car. The extra weight can cause your car's braking ability to wear down faster. Follow these tips and get this vital part of your vehicle inspected and repaired when you need to, and you will save yourself some money and a lot of frustration.

How to Repair a Leaking Valve Cover on a Jeep 4.0

Repairing a leaking valve cover on a Jeep 4.0 is simple and can be accomplished with simple hand tools. Here are the steps to stop your valve cover oil leaks.

The early Jeep 4.0 valve cover is sealed with RTV silicone. However after 1995, Jeep used a rubber coated metal gasket. Be sure to get the right seal before removing the valve cover to repair a leak. The proper silicone is oil resistant. You can get it from a Jeep Dealer or from some aftermarket suppliers such as Crown Automotive.

Begin by removing the cables going to the throttle body. These unclip from the throttle body and the bracket between the throttle body and the valve cover. Label them and lay them aside.

Remove the crankcase vent tubes.

Next, remove the hose supports and spark plug wire holders that may be attached to the longer studs of the valve cover retaining bolts.

Make a cardboard or Styrofoam template of the valve cover and use this template to keep track of the various types of bolts used to secure the cover. They need to be installed in the same holes they came out of.

Remove all the bolts. They are typically 11mm and you will need a deep well socket for the studs. On the Cherokee, there is one in the back near the firewall that can be difficult to access. I use a 3/8 drive socket mounted on a universal joint to access it.

With all the bolts out, carefully bump the cover with your hand or a rubber hammer to break the seal. Carefully lift it off the head taking care not to drop trash into the valve area.

Scrape off the old gasket material. If you are working the earlier RTV type seal, a Scotchbrite wheel on a drill can be helpful to clean the cover. I mount mine in my drill press to make it easier to handle.

Clean the head mounting surface as well.

For the gasket style, simply place the gasket on the head. Pay attention to the two locating dowels to make sure the gasket is properly aligned. For the RTV style, apply a thick even bead of silicone to the cover and let it sit for about five minutes before installing the cover.

Set the cover in place and make sure it is aligned properly. Make sure that none of the wires or other tabs are trapped between the cover and the head.

Using your template, put the bolts and studs back into the holes they came from. Tighten them snugly but not too tight. These are small bolts.

Replace the holders on the studs and put back any nuts that were removed.
Reconnect the cables to the throttle body.

Reconnect the crankcase vent lines.

Take a moment to check for any other lines that may have been knocked out of place. It is easy to pop out the line to the MAP sensor or the fuel pressure regulator while removing or replacing the valve cover.

The gasket style can be started immediately and checked for leaks. The RTV style needs to set at least half and hour before starting.

Car Repair for Older Vehicles

Having an older automobile can be a satisfactory experience. Generally, people with older vehicles no longer have pesky monthly payments. Another way people with older automobiles save money is through insurance. Premiums on older vehicles can be significantly cheaper than those for new models. For some, just the look of the older or vintage automobile is the driving force behind keeping it around. There are many reasons to have and cherish an older vehicle.

Most often, though, the older the vehicle the more and more occasions the owner will find themselves going to the car repair shop. One of the first things people with older vehicles start thinking about when they find themselves frequenting the auto body shop is whether it is time to turn in the keys for a newer model. This can be a tough decision to make and one that is important for your wallet and your safety.

First, ask your mechanic for advice. Your regular mechanic should be able to give you a good and trustworthy opinion on whether your old car's life is coming to an end. Mechanics at car repair shops see a large number of aging automobiles so they will be able to compare the life of your particular make and model to those with the same mileage. A trusted mechanic can also help you estimate the remaining life left in your motor as well as what certain replacements may cost.

If you do not have a regular mechanic right now that you can trust to give you good estimates on your vehicle's potential, then ask friends and family. They may have had an older vehicle in the past that began having similar issues. Or, they may be able to recommend you to their own trusted mechanic and car repair shop. Working off recommendations will make it easier for you to find a trustworthy mechanic to give you estimates and opinions.

You should take the information gained from your mechanic and just price check on a newer vehicle. You may find something out there that is affordable for your family. Occasionally, insuring a new vehicle can also save you money. Because of the safety and reliability of some new models on the road, you can receive discounts from your insurance company just by owning them. Take fuel savings into consideration as well.

Once you have an understanding of the how much life is left in your vehicle, you can compare the price of good car repair to the price of owning and insuring something new. Doing a little research on your vehicle and on new models and insurance can help you make the difficult decision of whether to keep or replace your automobile.

Windshield Repair Techniques

If you have a growing crack or chip in your windshield, you probably know it needs to be fixed as soon as possible. There are several different ways a windshield can be repaired, take the next few minutes to learn about each technique.

Let's start with the DIY windshield repair technique that can be done at home. Most auto parts stores sell one or more DIY windshield repair kits. Each kit comes with a glass removal tool (often a razor blade), a suction or stabilizing device, a resin that is injected into the crack or chip and a sheet or two of curing film. The first step is to be sure the area you will be repairing is completely clean, then you can use the tool supplied in the kit or a small razor blade to remove any loose or semi-loose glass particles. This step is very important as any loose pieces will prevent the resin from making a clean and clear seal in the glass.

After removing any particles, you can then attach the suction or stabilizing device so that the opening is centered directly over the chip or crack. Then you will screw in a tube in the opening of the suction or stabilizing device. This is where you will next inject or drop in the sealing resin. The next step is to screw the tube in until it puts pressure on the glass. Some kits come with a plunger device for this purpose. The plunger or tube is released and pressed against the glass several times to remove any air bubbles. Lastly a sheet of curing film is placed over the fixed area for about 15 minutes. Then the film can be removed and the area wiped clean. If done correctly it should be very hard to tell where the chip or crack was.

There are other types of windshield repair kits that work like a vacuum as you push resin into the crack or chip, but these methods seem to make it a bit trickier to get the sealant or resin exactly where you want it. However, it is all about your comfort level and experience with glass repair that can help you determine which version of the product to use.

Professional windshield repair techs use a similar technique but it differs by the equipment used, not to mention their experience repairing windshields. Most windshield repair techs use a professional machine that injects the resin into the cracks or chips while keeping the surrounding glass pressured to create a tight seal. After the resin is injected a professional grade mylar, similar to the curing sheets in the DIY kits, is applied to the crack or chip. The windshield repair tech will then usually apply a high powered ultra-violet light directly to the area being repaired. This is done to fully cure the sealant or resin.

There is also a professional vacuum method similar to the DIY vacuum method, but in a glass or auto repair shop the technician would use a special machine designed for windshield repair. This small machine actually both draws air out from the cracks and compresses the glass together and at the same time it injects a resin to bond the broken glass together. Just as in the other technique, a ray of ultraviolet light is applied to the repair to fully bond it, creating a smooth and clear finish.

In the event the windshield needs to be replaced, your best bet is to have a professional do it. The window tech first first uses a special tool to remove the moulding from around the glass. The next step is to remove the damaged windshield. Windshield repair techs have a special suction device that grabs onto the glass and makes it easy to remove as all they have to do is pull the handle of the suction device, and out comes the windshield. Next the tech applies a primer to the outer edge of the glass and then applies a strong Urethane adhesive to the edge of the glass and the vehicle frame where the glass rests against. Lastly the tech reattaches or replaces the moulding and reattaches the windshield wipers. The vehicle will be safe to drive about an hour after replacement.

Auto Glass - Why Cracks Need To Be Dealt With Swiftly

If your windshield has recently ended up with a crack, you really do need to consider getting it repaired as soon as you possibly can. The reason for this urgency is due to a number of factors. First of all, most auto glass cracks can be successfully repaired, providing you act on them in a timely manner, and of course this is certainly a cheaper option than having to actually replace your windshield. Remember though, with each day that passes, that crack is going to get bigger and bigger, hence the reason why you need to act on it immediately. The second reason is that strictly speaking, it happens to be illegal to drive a vehicle on public roads if the windshield is cracked. To the best of my knowledge, this is applicable in all States within the USA, and also in most other first world countries. Finally, if your windshield is cracked, its integrity is jeopardized, and that means it could in fact implode with little, if any warning at all, particularly if your vehicle is involved in a collision.

What many motorists don't realize is the fact that a windshield does more than just offer protection from the elements. In today's vehicles, the windshield is actually providing the vehicle both with a great deal of support. In other words, the glass itself is under a considerable amount of tension, which is exactly why cracks get bigger so rapidly if they're ignored. Ironically however, when it comes to vehicle maintenance, and repairs in particular, auto glass is probably the most neglected aspect of a vehicle. By and large, people just don't see auto glass as being important. As long as it keeps the wind and the rain out, there's nothing to worry about.

Others, who are more responsible in terms of road safety, are often under the impression that auto glass repairs cost an arm and a leg, and as a result, they simply choose to ignore a crack. Admittedly, having to replace your windshield is certainly going to cost you a fair bit of money, especially if it's not covered by your insurance policy, but that's even more reason why you need to act quickly if your windshield gets a crack.

In many cases, although many drivers don't realize it, auto glass repairs are covered by the average insurance policy. Even if your own policy doesn't cover you, and you simply don't have the money to have your auto glass repaired professionally, you can nowadays purchase DIY repair kits. While they may not be the ideal solution, at least a DIY repair can buy you a bit of time.

Ultimately, if your windshield is cracked, you need to get it seen to as soon as possible. As with other types of vehicle repairs, it's always best to get quotes from several auto glass repair specialists before you make a final decision, bearing in mind that the cost can vary tremendously from one place to the next.

Job Opportunities in Auto Transport Industry

The auto transport industry gives a lot of job opportunities with a good career projection. These jobs are also available on both basis as a full time and part time. People in search of auto transport jobs should have qualities like devoted, loyal, motivated and hard-working. Career prospects in auto Shipping industry are positive even for those who step in for the first time in this industry.

There are various types of Vehicle transport jobs available like Auto-Mover truck driver, Vehicle Shipping dispatcher, Customer service representative, Driver Car Hauler, CDL Driver, Military Vehicle Shipping job, owning your Own Truck Fleet, Intermediate Auto Mechanic etc.

You can find different jobs through classified advertising, from car dealers, and bidding sites. Consumers may demand for shippers who specialize in racecars, traditional and collectible cars, or loads with many vehicles. Persons moving often are in need of an auto transporter.

The first auto transport job that comes to mind is truck driver. The work of truck driver is difficult when compared to than any other driver because in this case the driver has to deliver the vehicle and also has to load and unload it. Another difficulty is they have to pick up vehicles from 10 to 12 places and deliver to different states which take few weeks to deliver. This is a hard job for drivers who are married but they are paid a good amount.

Another auto Shipping job is that of dispatcher. An Vehicle transport dispatcher is the "travel agent" of the auto transport industry. The dispatcher takes orders for shipment of customer vehicles and plans it with the trucking company. This work is harder than taught because each customer is shipping from somewhere like Melbourne, for example to Bangkok, So this has to be planned with a truck that has 8 to 11 autos which goes on that route. The dispatcher has to communicate information about pick-up, delivery, and transportation times to and from the truck driver and the customer.

Another type of work is that of client service representative. The client service representative is the person that the take delivery of and sends out quotation marks to consumers via phone or email. The client service representative also takes the order from the buyer and sends it to the dispatch dept. The client service representative also answers questions from customers about the shipping procedure itself because most customers have never shipped a car and knows nothing about it.

Diesel Mechanic work is the most critical profession in the car transport industry. This work is given much of significance because a Diesel Mechanic is very necessary for the any auto transport company. His job involves performing usual protection of the company vehicles to ensure that the company trucks move safe and sound on the road. The requirement of Diesel Mechanics is always high in the auto transport industry.

Auto Processor job includes processing of cars from one end to another end. General Warehouse job includes usage of forklift to transport overstock freight to main locations. Driver Car Hauler job includes transfer of cars and other items to different places. Certified courses are available.

Tune-Ups Are Dead: The Truth About Today's Routine Auto Maintenance Schedules

Automobile maintenance is nothing like it used to be. Thank God! In the past, your vehicle required regular replacement of a variety of parts: spark plugs, ignition wires, PCV valves, distributor caps, ignition rotors, and more.

With the exception of spark plugs, technology has replaced most of these with advanced, integrated ignition systems. Nevertheless, vehicle maintenance is still vital. So what does your vehicle really need in order to maintain it? Put another way: "What am I paying $300, $400, $500 for anyway?"

Given the abundance of car maintenance questions, let's put the general requirements of today's vehicle maintenance management into two categories:

• Tune-Ups


• Regular Vehicle Maintenance

IMPORTANT: always refer to your manufacturer's guidelines for your car or truck maintenance information.

Tune-Ups, Car Maintenance and Problems

Let's start with tune ups. Tune-ups are a thing of the past. As mentioned above, most of today's vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, which has replaced many wearable parts. While there are still many vehicles on the road with the above parts, they are fading fast.

Today's tune-ups are incorporated into regular vehicle maintenance. In the past, they were often considered separate auto maintenance.

This is helpful. If you're wondering when you need a tune-up, just follow your manufacturer's maintenance interval. More importantly, find a shop that will actually follow your manufacturer's maintenance interval.

What makes up today's tune-up?

There are generally only four primary tune-up components, many of which have extended replacement time intervals (auto extended maintenance). For example, some fuel filters last the life of the vehicle, others last 60,000-miles. Today's platinum spark plugs easily last 100,000-miles.

This reduces primary tune-up components down to only two:

Air Filters: Some air filters can last 60,000 miles. Although most last between 15,000 to 30,000 miles. There are lifetime performance air filters, but these require maintenance.

Cabin Filters: Cabin filters filter the incoming air of dust and debris, helping to keep your interior clean and dust free. They require replacement starting around 10,000 miles. Not every vehicle is equipped with cabin filters.

Following is a break-down of today's most common tune up parts:

Tune-Ups:

1. Air Filters

2. Fuel Filters

3. Cabin Filters (also called dust filters, or HVAC filters)

4. Spark Plugs

Now, if we add tire maintenance--rotation, balance, replacement, and alignments, that about covers the extent of vehicle maintenance services for today's vehicles. Then there are various maintenance inspections: brakes, front end, under-carriage, belts, hoses, and battery. Lastly, we can't forget wiper blades and miscellaneous lubrication services.

But generally, that's it!

Important Note on Tire Rotation: many manufacturer maintenance sheet guidelines neglect the importance of tire rotations, which creates confusion. To keep it simple: rotate your tires approximately every 5,000 miles, as applicable.

Car Maintenance Online Help & Car Maintenance Schedule

Vehicle Maintenance Management procedures are variable, pending the year, make and model. Again, I have separated vehicle maintenance from the Tune-Up section above for clarity. Today, tune-ups and maintenance procedures are performed together during service intervals.

Follow your factory maintenance interval and you're set!

Below is a general break-down to five vehicle maintenance services:

General Vehicle Maintenance:

1. Oil and Oil Filter Service

2. Coolant/Antifreeze Flush

3. Brake System Flush

4. Transmission Fluid Service

5. Differential/Gear Box/Transfer Case Services

And that's about it!

So...if auto maintenance has been drastically reduced by technological advancements, why are the prices still so high?

The answer: You're getting ripped off!

98% of ALL repair facilities are price-gouging you, the service customer.

It's considered normal.

Car Dents - Things You Need to Know

Compared to vintage car models which were sold decades ago, the latest car models sold in today's market are more prone to dings and dents. Two of the most important factors in the vehicle industry are accident safety and fuel economy. Because of this, automotive manufacturers and engineers have designed cars much like a space frame which consists of external body panels that are stretched over the frame. The latest car models are more prone to acquiring dents because these external body panels are made from much thinner materials.

Newer car models have external body panels which consists of several different materials and the rolled out sheet steel is no longer made from simple stamped expanses. Cars are designed with body panels which are commonly made from dent-resistant high impact plastic materials. Other materials used are those made from high-strength fiber glass, soft aluminum, and high-tech carbon fiber. For susceptible areas such as bumpers, materials made from softer plastic compounds are often used. When it comes to fixing or repairing a car dent, each material offers different properties. Areas of a vehicle which are made from high-impact plastics, carbon fiber and fiber glass are easily dented when it comes in collision with the corner objects such as children's toys, fences, or parking areas. It may even sustain gouges from other vehicles. Aluminum areas are known to dent quite easily.

Depending on the severity and depth of the dent, most technicians that have the skill and knowledge in the field of auto dent repair can easily repair almost all types of car dents. Repairing major car dents may be too difficult for the average do-it-yourself vehicle owner but professional technicians are specifically trained to perform technically challenging car dent repairs. For damage that is considered to be too extensive, a professional car dent repairer has no other choice but to remove the bumper or the body of the panel and a new panel has to be installed and painted. If in case the damage is repairable, without using any body fillers and repainting methods, the technician will pull the dent back out of the panel.

Not doing any repainting can save you a significant amount of money on body work and it is also considered to be more effective in removing hail damage car dents and other types of indentations that mar the surface of the vehicle. There are times that fixing a dent would require repainting, if this is the case, paintless dent removal is a great option to prepare the car for painting.

Priming the Repair Area - Why Prime and What Types of Primer to Use

It's All About Cleanliness

If I can stress one thing throughout my training, that would be proper cleaning the surface be painted. The surface should be washed with dish soap and water before repairs begin. Then wipe the surface down with wax and grease remover. During repairs, use compressed air to keep the surface clean. Blow thoroughly before applying body filler or glaze putty. Then blow the repair area and wipe with wax and grease remover before masking. After masked wipe down with wax and grease remover once again to remove all finger prints. This sounds repetitive and it is. However, this will ensure proper adhesion and eliminate many problems during the painting process.

What Is Primer?

According to Wikipedia "primer is a preparatory coating put on materials before painting. Priming ensures better adhesion of paint to the surface, increases paint durability, and provides additional protection for the material being painted. The term primer comes from the Latin primus meaning first because it precedes the other coatings"

Adhesion Is Key, But There is More

Adhesion is a key reason to use primer. However, in automotive primers, it also provides corrosion protection too. Therefore, a primer that provide both good adhesion and corrosion protection is needed. I recommend to use an epoxy primer to provide these needs. Most epoxies can be applied on most types of substrates and is compatible with most top coats. Some technicians prefer etch primer to apply on bare metal to provide good adhesion. Etch primer has a high acid content that bites into the metal, but does not have the corrosion protection like epoxy does.

Mixing Epoxy - It's Like The First Day Of Class

We use PPG products, but other brands may have similar directions. Be sure to read the manufacture procedure page to determine what they recommend. However, many epoxies have an induction time. This is a amount of time the two chemicals need to be mixed together before using. It's like going to a new town or your first day of class. You're quiet and nervous until you get to know the people around you. Once you get to know everyone, you feel much more comfortable. After mixing the catalyst with the epoxy primer, the chemical needs a little time to accept each other as well. It may only be 15 to 20 minutes, but be sure to read the procedure page to know for sure

Spraying The Primer

According to the new 6H rule, all primer needs to be sprayed inside an approve spray area. If you're priming a small area, you may consider lowering the fluid, narrowing the fan pattern and turn the air pressure down. This will allow you to spray a smaller area with less over spray. Be certain to cover all areas that were sanded with 220 grit or courser. Apply two medium wet coats to the repair area. Remember not to spray primer all the way to your masking paper. Keeping the primer area as small as possible will provide the easiest repair.

Flash Time - Don't Even Think About Passing Go

Flash time is the amount of time that is needed between coats. Rushing the flash time throughout the car paint jobs process is something I see often, which results in many different problems. Each coat must have time to flash to allow all of the solvents to evaporate. If you apply another coat before the primer has flashed off will trap the solvent and cause a number of problems. Loss of adhesion and solvent popping are a few of the most common problems. You must also realize that the time given in the procedure page are probably around 70 degrees. If it is 50 degrees in the shop at the time you spray the primer, then flash time must be extended. One coat at a time. No double coats or rushing the flash times. You've spent a lot of time on the repair, don't blow it now.

Next, we'll discuss primer surfacer.

Why A Quality Windshield Replacement Job Is So Important

Windshield replacement is obviously something nobody wants to have done, but it can be essential. The problem is that there are so many companies that offer this service, and therefore picking the best one is often a hassle. However, when you are educated about the process, you will be able to find the best glass company relatively easily.

Replacement is very important, and getting a good job done is critical. The truth is, the windshield is one of the most important parts of the vehicle. One of the reasons is that is that it plays a huge role during a crash in terms of keeping the driver and passengers safe. For instance, when you roll the car, the windshield actually absorbs as much as 60% of the impact before it collapses. Therefore, a well designed windshield actually prevents the top of the vehicle from collapsing on those inside.

In addition, it is responsible for nearly 50% of the structural strength when you are involved in a front end crash. If the windshield replacement is not done properly, the windshield could actually get dislodged when you crash. This again will cause the roof to collapse.

But it does not stop there.

A poor windshield replacement job can actually prevent the airbags from deploying properly. The airbags tend to look for the path of least resistance during a crash. Therefore, if the job done was not up to par, then the glass will get dislodged. Due to this, the airbags will have nothing to prevent them from deploying outside the front of the vehicle. This can lead to serious injury, because you risk colliding with the dashboard or even flying out of the car and slamming into the pavement or another vehicle.

The windshield has to perfectly fit your vehicle.

All vehicles are slightly different in terms of windshield size and curvature. Therefore, a windshield that was made for a Chevy Malibu cannot also work with a Honda Civic, even though both cars are similar sizes. If it does not conform exactly to your vehicle, the windshield will not have the strength needed to handle pressure. Even if it looks good under normal circumstances, the quality of the installation will show up during a crash. This is because heavy pressure exerted on the windshield will cause it to dislodge, thus risking the entire structural integrity of the vehicle.

In other words, make sure that any windshield replacement quote you get from a glass company is for the specific kind of glass your vehicle requires. Some firms might give you an estimate quote based on a generic windshield, but the price actually could be a lot higher if they have to special order it. This is particularly true if you have an exotic car. Therefore, press them on the issue, and ask if the price you are getting is for your specific vehicle or not.

How to find the best company

Make sure you read reviews about any glass company you are considering, and see what kind of experiences past customers have had. It might be worthwhile to pay a bit more for a quality job than to just go with the cheapest company. You could even check with the Better Business Bureau if you cannot find anything about them online. Get at least 3-5 price quotes before deciding on which company to go with.

Conclusion

Windshield replacement is a very important job. Most people do not realize how critical a quality windshield is, because in everyday driving situations there is no noticeable difference. However, you will definitely notice a poor installation if you get in an accident. Use this knowledge to make an informed decision on which windshield replacement glass company to go with.

Auto Body Shops and Custom Work

When you think of auto body shops, the first thing that pops into your mind is usually a place where you bring your car to after you an accident that needs some sort of collision or damage repair done; you might also think that an auto body shop is a place where you would bring your car to for some minor touch up work for various scratches or dents that have mysterious migrated onto your car. Thinking these things is by no stretch wrong but another thing that auto body shops perform is custom car modifications.

The realm of things that can fall into the category of custom automotive work are endless. Everything ranging from body kits to mufflers and even paint jobs can be perform by your local body shop providing they have the proper supplies and equipment for the job. As with all things, some auto body shops have a better reputation then others when it comes to do custom work. A good thing to keep in mind is the workload of the garage you are planning on visiting on any given time. If the body shop you are trying to use is full of customers, they might very well be able to do the work but the turn around time would be long. If the reputation of the shop is good enough then it is worth the wait and going through the hassle of making other plans while your car is being worked on.

After you have decided on the type of work you would like to have done to your car, you should specifically ask one of the auto body shops you have in mind if they can perform the job. If you have a fancy car that requires special tools of mechanical knowledge then it might be out of the realm of possibility for certain garages. It is also well worth it to research the auto body work shop you are planning on visiting in terms of any complaints filed against them before you bring your car in. The best way to do this is by looking on the Internet for reports filed against the shop you are interested in.

Before any custom work is done to your vehicle you should ask upfront for a clear cut estimate and to be telephoned if any extra work needs to be performed that is vital to the success of the original job request. If you have found a good garage, they would not do any extra work without your prior consent or agreement.

How to Diagnose Common Auto AC Repair Problems - From Intermittent Cooling to Bad AC Odors

Normally troubleshooting your car's AC is best left to professional technicians and mechanics, especially for modern auto air conditioning systems.

However, for minor auto AC issues you can be spared from frequent car check-ups and repairs if you know how to diagnose your car's more common air cooling problems. Here are some of the more common auto AC repair problems you may encounter:

AC Is Not Cool Enough

There are several probable causes for this problem. Some are as follows:

1. Low refrigerant level

Under most circumstances, your AC will not easily run out of refrigerant. If you do find that your AC is low on refrigerant, be sure to inspect it for leaks and breaks before recharging your system.

2. Blown fuse or wiring problem

Power on your AC and if the clutch does not engage, you may have a blown fuse or wiring problem. Replacing the fuse can temporarily correct the problem but should be further checked to know the reason why the fuse blew to avoid the same problem in the future.

3. Defective magnetic clutch

The magnetic clutch could be considered defective if it receives input voltage but is not powering the compressor. This should be immediately examined and replaced if necessary.

4. Faulty compressor

A squeaking belt can be a sign of faulty compressor. In addition, the compressor should be replaced if the clutch is working but the compressor fails to turn on.

Leaking Refrigerant

Leaks are probably the most common problem in auto AC repairs. Leaks are usually found in hose connections, seals, and through microscopic pores of the hose. Modern systems induce fewer leaks than older systems, but slight changes in the refrigerant level in newer units can severely affect its cooling performance.

Visual indications like oil stains and wet spots are less obvious for R134A systems because its lubricant is not as oily as opposed to older R12 systems. Various methods can be used to determine the leak in an AC system.

A special dye with mixed refrigerant in a pressurized can is sometimes added to the system. Electronic leak detectors can also be used, or the primitive style of soaking or spraying the hose with soap and water and following the bubbles is still being practiced by modern technicians. Leaks should be repaired by replacing the O-rings, seals, and hoses before recharging your AC.

Intermittent Cooling

This problem is easily noticed when you have alternate blowing of warm and cool air. Its usual cause is the presence of air and moisture in the system. Auto AC repairs for intermittent cooling is normally done by purging air and moisture from your AC by using a vacuum pump.

Intermittent cooling can also be caused by electrical faults like:

o Defective relays and switches
o Compressor clutch
o Control module
o Temperature sensor

AC Noise

Typical causes of noise in an air conditioning system are:

o Sign of compressor problem
o Cross-contaminated refrigerant
o Wrong type of lubricant
o Rattling of hoses and other AC parts

Auto AC repairs for noise can be as simple as tidying your hose layout. If you are sure that the noise is not caused by a rattling hose, you can try to replace the lubricant and verify if your compressor is still functional.

Bad AC Odor

A system which blows air that smells like a foul gym is typically caused by bacteria in the evaporator. Aside from the bad odor, bacteria in the air conditioning systems can also cause health problems. One remedy for this bad odor is to spray disinfectant in the evaporator or through the blower ducts.

If the air blown by your unit smells like gasoline or oil, you might need to consult professional help.

Take care when trying to diagnose or repair your own auto AC problems. When in doubt, always consult with your automotive professional.

Auto Repair Information - What Source is Best?

When looking for automotive repair information, you will find that there are numerous different sources you can use. There is the old standby, the OE factory service manual, but is it always the best resource for auto repair information? What about the aftermarket manuals from Haynes, Chilton, or others? Computers and the internet provide many more sources, such as subscriptions to AllDataDIY, Mitchell's e-AutoRepair, and online forums.

So where is the best place to go for auto repair information? The answer is that there is no simple answer! Each of these sources has advantages and disadvantages, and each has its own place. The answer will depend on your knowledge and experience, what type of information you are looking for, and sometimes it is actually helpful to have access to two or three different resources.

The OE factory service manual for the most part is written for the professional technician that has been trained in automotive repair. A certain level of knowledge, experience, and access to special tools is assumed. That is not to say that it is not useful for the average car owner that does his or her own repairs, because in certain cases there is no substitute. I find the factory service manuals frustrating at times, because it can be difficult to locate specific information. But, they usually have the most complete, comprehensive, and detailed automotive repair information that is available.

Aftermarket repair manuals such as those from Haynes or Chiltons are geared more towards the average car owner with a do-it-yourself mindset. In most cases, they are perfectly adequate if you are doing mechanical repairs. Where I have found them lacking is in the computer diagnostics and automatic transmission repair areas. Of course, your average do-it-yourself car owner my not be attempting these repairs anyway. One of the advantages to these manuals are that they have lots of photos, which many other resources (including the factory manuals) are lacking.

A subscription to AllDataDIY or Mitchell e-AutoRepair provides you with the exact same auto repair information that many independent auto repair shops use. Yes, it is geared towards the professional, but it is searchable and much easier to navigate through than a factory service manual. These are probably the best all-around sources for general repairs. They still leave out some things that are covered in the factory service manuals, but go much more in-depth than the aftermarket repair books.

Online forums can be a very valuable tool when you have a specific car repair questions or a problem you can't solve. Many have a ton of people with real-world experience with similar vehicles that will bend over backwards to help out a fellow car owner. You do have to be careful, though, because you really don't know the knowledge level of the person that may be answering your question. Sometimes it is possible to get bad advice from someone that really doesn't know what they are talking about, or is mistaken about something but is honestly trying to help.

As I said earlier, sometimes it is helpful to have more than one auto repair info source for certain repairs. Case in point: I recently replaced a convertible top myself rather than pay someone else to do it. When I was trying to get the new top installed, I had a factory service manual, two aftermarket repair manuals, the instructions that came with the top, and a step-by-step tutorial with photos that I found online, and I used every one of them at one point or another!

Each of these auto repair information resources has value. If I could personally only have one source, it would be the factory service manual, but I am a certified ASE Master Technician. For the dedicated do-it-yourselfer, I think a subscription to AllDataDIY or Mitchell e-AutoRepair is the best all-around source. If all you want to do is replace a timing belt or do a brake job and you don't mess with computer diagnostics, then an aftermarket repair manual may be your best bet. The online forums and question/answer services are great places to turn to when you get stuck.

How to Pay For Your Car Repair

Your insurance company will shoulder most of the bills for car repairs and you save a fair amount on your other coverage. Life usually comes to a standstill when you are running short of cash in between paydays as urgent payments can not be made. Some people use their home equity to borrow. Loans are taken to meet a sudden and unexpected expense. However, you can save on your repair bills and still keep your vehicle well maintained. Auto repairs are a necessary, but often high priced expense. Almost all automotive repair questions can now be answered online, right at your fingertips.

Money is available for the emergent needs that occur in life and personal financing can be obtained for new appliances, automobile repairs and home improvements. Personal loans are a great option if you need money to consolidate debt, pay for automotive repair, repair the home, go on a vacation, or even go to school. The automotive insurance company usually sends a check for the funds directly to you to help you get the automotive repaired or to replace the vehicle. Of course, you then need to pay recovery charges to get your automobile home or to a garage and then get the automotive repaired. Auto expenses includes everything from car washes, insurance, automobile repairs, tires, interior detailing, and even air fresheners and oil jobs. With the help of this mortgage, borrower can easily meet various personal needs like paying, automotive repair bills, credit card dues, home repair and so on. On the job training not only improves your skills, it also gets you working in the automobile repair industry sooner.

When handled correctly, receiving an online payday loan is an advantageous economical alternative to costly overdraft fees, bounced check charges, taxes or possibly losing your job if you do not have money on hand for a needed automobile repair. There may be a time where you are hit with an unexpected cash emergency, such as a bank overdraft, an unforeseen auto repair or unexpectedly high utility payment. You may get paid to take survey about automobile repair or insurance, baby products if you are a new parent, travel plans for business and pleasure, or any number of topics that someone is willing to pay for information. If managed correctly, a loan of this type would be a smart alternative to paying costly dishonor bank fees, late rent fees or possibly losing your job if you are unable to afford a much needed car repair. Actually there are many people who are afraid of that day when they will have to get their auto repaired.

The hassles of insurance, car [http://www.ebooks-mall.org/car/] repairs, and treating possible injuries can alter your daily or weekly routine for quite a while. These days, there is nothing daunting for car repair shops as a weathered convertible top. Although SMART repair services are quite comprehensive, if you lurch forward in slow moving traffic and smash into cars in front causing considerable damage, SMART vehicle repair technicians may not be able to fix it. Make use of SMART vehicle repair services, which also include a auto diagnostics service to ensure the problem does not escalate. Techniques that SMART vehicle repair undertake include painless dent removal, seat and trim repair, plastic welding and bumper repair, air conditioning repair, and alloy wheel repair. In addition, many SMART vehicle repair jobs can be done on your premises, saving you the petrol used to travel there, as well as time and inconvenience.

Auto Repair and Motoring Nowadays, when taking care of the environment has become a priority, it has been realized that enough small changes made by many people can make a difference. Visit your favorite repair shop mechanic and auto dealer The vehicle enhancement options available are vast. As long as you have quick payday loans, then you will be able to get what you need, pay those unexpected bills and have some money left for repairs or family emergencies. The reason repair is set up for negotiation is because your mechanic or service manager knows that he can give you a discount but he certainly is not going to offer it. When people are looking for products and services such as restaurants, repair shops and florists, they tend to spend their money in an area near where they live, work or play. If a repair shop does not offer any type of guarantee on their work, consider shopping around for another tire shop. Even though you may have worked on your own cars as a teenager or still consider yourself to be an amateur repair specialist I recommend that you leave the work to a qualified mechanic who has been trained to do the job properly.

Car Repair - Five Steps on How to Find the Mechanic You Need

You know that sound that you dread. You put the key in the ignition and all you hear is grinding, if you're lucky. You do what everyone else does.You grumble, get out and pop the hood. If you're lucky it's something as simple as a new battery. But if it's not something so simple, or even if the battery is difficult to replace, you need a qualified mechanic. Is this really the time to search high and low for a mechanic? Before a breakdown happens you should have a car repair shop in mind.

First off, you need to do your research. Start by doing an internet search to see what type of auto repair shops are in your area. If they have websites check them out, you might find that some are limited in what they offer, specializing in breaks or tires. Once you have a handful of places make note of their address and phone numbers. You might find some that are located close to home, close to work, and in between.

After you have your list, don't hesitate to call a few of them. You want to see if they are members of any professional automotive repair associations. Being a part of NAPA Auto Car or APS means that they have had to pass certain standards. These standards are more than just if they offer low prices as well. This will help you narrow down the list.

Once the list is narrowed down, drop by the shop sometime. This will give you a chance to see what the building looks like. You want a clean and orderly area that doesn't look like it's ready to fall in on itself. You also want to be greeted by courteous staff.

When you stop by, take the opportunity to ask a few of the customers why they chose this car repair shop. You want to hear about the service. Having low prices is good but it shouldn't be the reason that the shop was chosen to begin with. If that is the most common answer then you might want to find another shop. If you don't have time to ask the customers you can always look for customer comments on the internet.

Talk to the mechanic. This is the final and most important step you can take. You know what the building looks like and all the certifications and memberships they belong to by now. You need to know what the mechanic knows. Before speaking to the mechanic do a little research on your own. You might not be able to perform the repairs after you've looked a few things up but this way you will know if he's a quality mechanic or if he's just blowing smoke.

Having car repair can get expensive fast. If you don't take your vehicle to a quality mechanic you could end up spending more money than you should have.

Car Engine Care Tips, Maintain Reliable Performance

Among the routine aspects of car engine care are checking the engine oil level as well as the levels of transmission fluid. It is not only reliable road performance you need to consider but the essentials of maintaining the right oil level in the engine.

Driving around with low levels of engine oil can cause long term damage to the engine components, possibly leading to very expensive repairs.

To measure oil levels it is best to park the car in a level position, not on a slope, and to switch off the engine. After about 5 minutes lift the oil dipstick from the engine compartment and wipe it with a clean cloth or tissue. Place it back in the engine, remove again and make a note of the oil level, which should be at least halfway between the low and high mark points.

This is also a great time to consider whether your car engine needs an oil change. If the oil on the dipstick is black it suggests the oil contains sooty particles, which can affect engine performance. So this would be a good time to drain the old oil and add some fresh oil.

A clear, light brown coloured oil is about right and so you can go ahead with a top-up, if the level is too close to the minimum notch on the dipstick. When you add fresh engine oil slowly, give the oil a chance to settle and then check the level again before closing the oil compartment cap.

Another important aspect of car engine care is ensuring there is sufficient anti-freeze (engine coolant) which dissolves with added water and flows from the reservoir through the radiator panel, helping to stop the engine from overheating.

It is best to refer to the car owner's manual which will show you where the tank or reservoir for engine coolant is located. A key point is to allow the engine to cool down before topping up with anti-freeze because after the engine has been running the closed system carrying the coolant will be under pressure.

Also consider checking the level of engine coolant, perhaps an hour or so after you top-up, in case there is a leak. If this is not resolved there is a risk of damage due to the engine overheating. During icy, cold winter months when temperatures plummet, you may want to consider increasing the concentration of anti-freeze in the system.

Ensuring transmission fluid levels are satisfactory and topped up when necessary is another are to be aware of when carrying out regular car engine care. This is a key part of the engine as the oil is responsible for lubricating essential processes such as power transmission to the wheels and enabling smooth gear changes.

Depending on what model you have, the transmission fluid may either be checked by you using the user's manual or it is better for the authorised car dealer to carry out the procedure. If you have manual transmission, take out the dipstick with the car in neutral and engine running, checking the level and making sure it is near the "full" mark.

The fluid should be pink to clear in colour, so if you notice the fluid is darker and containing particles, you may need to change the fluid. It is best for a garage mechanic to drain the system and put in fresh fluid.

Statistics show a flat or faulty battery is one of the top reasons for calling out the car emergency breakdown services. So clearly a regular battery check is a key part of your car engine care routine.

Inspect the battery to see if there is any damage to the unit, and check if there's any corrosion at the terminals, which can lead to poor connections and even a failure to start-up.

Some simple ways to give your car battery a longer life include making sure you don't leave a light on or look out for a faulty part that may drain the battery. Taking a number of short journeys or little use of your car means the battery will be under-charged which can lead to a hardening of the lead plates, so reducing the battery's effectiveness in holding charge.

So if you do a lot of short journeys it may be an idea to invest in a battery charger and to ask your local garage mechanic to carry out a test from time to time to see if the fault is the battery or the charging system.

With all the above checks and procedures it is always important to check the official car manual you received from the car dealer together with any helpful information from the auto manufacturer's website. This will point out the key do's and dont's for your specific model, for example whether to use conventional or synthetic oil during a service.

The above car engine care tips can help you prolong the life of your car engine and battery, and so give you months and years of enjoyment with your chosen vehicle.

Help With Car Water Damage

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that we have. It can affect our homes, businesses and cars. Car water damage can be extremely stressful. Your car is a huge investment and this is a big problem.

Whether you have a car that has been infiltrated or are concerned about purchasing water damaged cars, there are many different things that you should consider.

If you have car water damage in your car, you will need to tend to it quickly for best results. If your car is involved in a flood, it may very likely have been submerged. This can affect, not only the cosmetics of your vehicle, but the electronic system, as well.

Even if your car hasn't been submerged there could still be significant damage. If you drive through a flooded area or there is a way for water to enter the engine, this could also cause serious problems. Any large dents in the hood could also be an area for it to enter.

If you have been involved in a flood, first check all of your fluids. If they are an off color, have your vehicle towed to an auto mechanic. Don't drive it! You may cause permanent problems. They will empty the fluids and replace them properly for you.

If you have a newer car, the electrical system may also be involved. If you are in doubt... the dash lights on, running rough etc, tow it to a mechanic. They may need to replace the components.

Your brakes could also be involved. Have them inspected to make sure that they will perform properly. It is possible you may also need to replace them.

If the interior is involved, you will need to clean it well. You can use a wet vac to vacuum most of the water out. If it is soaked, you may find you need to redo the interior due to mold. It is too difficult to dry out the inner seats and many insurance companies will total a car that has interior water damage.

You will need to also check all of the lubricated joints. Most cars are now lubricated at the factory for life, but with flooding, they may have been compromised and will need to be re-lubricated.

If you are purchasing a used car, some states require owners to let the DMV know if it has been involved in a flood. You can also research the VIN number on your own to be sure there hasn't been any car water damage.

How to Do a Repair of Alloy Wheels

Oh man, did you just hit a curb and are now in need of a repair of the alloy wheels on your car? I'm feeling you man, that is harsh. If you want to do this auto wheel repair cheaply, without going to rim repair shops, here is a step by step instruction on repairing mild scuffs. Deeper scruffs and gouges will likely need the help of a professional.

First you're going to need to go to an automotive paint store and find a good can of paint that matches the colour of your wheels. If you think you're going to walk in and find one can marked 'silver' you're in for a shock. If there aren't at least a dozen different shades of silver you are in the wrong store. You'll have to ask a sales representative if you don't know your colour, I won't know it for you. While you're out get some knifing putty, 250,400 and 800 grit sandpaper, masking tape, filler spray, and clear lacquer.

Start by taking the wheel off your car, doing this sideways will not be any fun. Lay the wheel down and give it a good wash. You must get it perfectly clean or you may as well not even try to do this. Dirt, wax, and grime are your enemy here.

Get your 250 grit sandpaper and start smoothing down the scrape. It doesn't have to be completely smooth, just get rid of the burs. Once you knock down the worst of it switch to the 400 grit to get it smoother and to help protect the finish that isn't damaged. Your trick will be to keep the sandpaper wet the whole time you use it, it makes it less aggressive and it will clog up less, rinse it off regularly.

Now get out your putty. Don't be afraid to put on more than you need, and wait a moment for it to firm up before shaping it. Now wait for it to set completely, be sure to read the instructions for your putty and follow them exactly. If you get impatient you get bad results. When it is set get the 250 grit sandpaper wet and start smoothing it down, move on to the 400 when you're getting close to a level finish with the rest of the tire. Run your fingers over it to get a feel for lumps.

Mask off the area to be sprayed, get it done right. You don't want your tires to turn out the colour of the spray. With that done hit it with the filler spray, go for 3 coats. Once it is dry, usually overnight, get your 800 grit sandpaper, get it wet, and sand that area smooth. Now you can finally start your final coats with the silver you've picked out. I'd say four coats with 15 minute intervals between each coat will do. Once this is dry give it a light go over with the 800 and get your lacquer finish out and use it to give the new paint that last bit of protection it needs. Remember this lacquer is thinner than paint, putting too much on will cause it to run. Once this is all dry you're all done, you've done a basic repair of your alloy wheels.

Auto Glass Repair Technology - Finding the Right Repair Guy

Windshield repairs have saved consumers millions of dollars over the years by allowing factory installed auto glass to be safely repaired with scientifically designed plastic resins. In the 1960's laminated windshield glass was introduced. With the use of polyvinyl butyral the inner layer that laminated glass came into wider use by auto makers. It wasn't until the 1970's that true windshield repairs became possible. Until that time, all that could be done was to force some oil-based fluid into the damaged area to disguise it, but the results were poor and offered no real repair qualities to the safety or strength of the damaged area, as you can well imagine. From the first giant repair machine, originally introduced by 3M, to a myriad of equipment and companies that specialize in all aspects of glass repair, the search to find the right repair guy has become quite a challenge for "Joe" consumer.

Poor quality repairs can happen even when the most experienced repair person is at the helm. Windshield glass is layered like a sandwich, and it's the outer layer of glass that receives all the activity from the harsh road environment. The poly layer in the middle flexes and holds the inner and outer layers of glass together so splintering is reduced and strength is added to the vehicle's roof. When an object hits the windshield it will cause a hole or crack that runs to the inner glass layer. Even if the damage is small, the first thing that immediately contaminates the area that is broken is good old air, and it's that air that shows up as a dark gray blemish within the windshield. Don't mistake this blemishing for water or dirt settling inside the damaged area. The cracks in the glass layer can be so tight that moisture in any form could not penetrate the area.

The quest to successfully remove all the air trapped within the outer glass layer of a broken windshield is on. As with all science and technology, improvements in the glass repair business have improved drastically in recent years. Auto glass repair shops and mobile service providers must now make the choice between using the old way or changing to the new superior technology for their customers. Ultimately consumers must know a little about the repair systems themselves in order to receive the best service for their money.

After a windshield is repaired with the super hard plastic glass resin, that's it. The resin cures so hard that the repaired area becomes stronger than the original glass, welding the broken surfaces together. So producing the best looking repair the first time is crucial from both the service provider and the client.

Less than two years ago a revolutionary new windshield repair system was introduced to the industry called "Prism Technology". Prism was developed to enhance the results produced during windshield repairs by one of the leading glass repair products manufacturers in the world that has been a big player in research and development for the glass repair industry. The Prism technology uses the most advanced "dry vacuum" injector system to not only remove the maximum air contaminates from the damaged area, but also to simplify the entire repair process for the technician. This new system takes all the guesswork and mystery out of knowing that the air contamination has been removed first before the acrylic resin is injected into the broken glass.

With older repair systems still being used in majority, all pull the air trapped in the glass up and through the liquid resin that is contained within the repair injector. The technician loads the liquid resin into the barrel of the injector after mounting it onto the windshield by way of the bridge. The bridge is the thing with the suction cups that stick to the windshield. The resin sits on the bottom of the injector that is sealed to the windshield surface and an o-ring seals the resin in the injector barrel. Then a vacuum is produced by pulling up a plunger at the top of the injector, you've seen this before more than likely. The air contaminate, that is trapped within the broken glass, now must be pulled out of the damage and up through the liquid resin. Problems arise from air bubbles that are left behind in the damaged area. Some air bubbles can stay in the liquid resin, not being pulled completely through to the top, and when the injection starts with the downward motion of the plunger, the bubbles are pushed back into the glass. The air bubbles push the resin aside and produce voids in the repair that look unsightly and produce weak repairs.

The new Prism dry vacuum technology eliminates this frustrating problem for the auto glass repair industry. The injector has two parts-the body or barrel, and the resin cup. The injector is mounted the same way as the old system, but after mounting the injector to the windshield, the barrel is turned so the resin cup is down and gravity keeps the resin from running into the injector. A strong vacuum is then produced by the plunger being pulled upward or by a machine vacuum attached by a hose to the injector for several minutes. Under a vacuum, the injector barrel is turned 180 degrees and the resin liquid runs into the damaged glass, unobstructed by air. Because of the vacuum produced, all the air is sucked out from the damage and the resin flows freely into the zone. When it's time to push the remaining resin into the damage, the plunger or machine produces high pressure that squeezes the liquid into the tightest regions of broken glass. When the repair area is properly cured with UV light rays, and remains under pressure until hard, the repair resin welds together the entire damaged area completely, producing the highest quality windshield repair in the industry.

Consumers can now get the best windshield repair for their hard earned dollar just by understanding the latest auto glass technology. Don't forget to ask the repair guy or gal if they use the new "Prism" dry vacuum repair system. There is manual, machine and computerized repair equipment that uses the high tech Prism system. Be on the lookout for the manual type systems that use hand pulled plungers. Most of those will use the older technologies. It's worth the time you'll spend to find the right repair guy that is keeping up with the current technology before getting your next windshield repaired.

Keep that original windshield as long as you can to keep your factory seal, and don't replace it until you just have to, because the inevitable fact is windshields break when hit. So have it repaired with the right stuff, you may have to look through it every day.

Benefits of Mobile Car Servicing to the Car Owner

It has never been more true than in the case of caring for your car that the maintenance you perform today is the problem you will avoid tomorrow. Many people wait until the very last minute to seek out a car service centre to look at their latest rattle, whistle or chug noises. In many of these cases the problem is already well on its way and you then have the issue of the expense you might incur. If you go to the dealer garage, the cost will be outlandish, if you go to car service centres you have to make sure you pick a good one or your car will never be fixed correctly.

When selecting the mobile car servicing garage that you want to use, start by checking out their reputation. Make sure they have limited consumer complaints on file. Ask around for past customers and find out how satisfied they were with their repair as well as their car servicing prices. In addition, go into the centre and check it out. Is it clean? Does it look well managed? Do they appear to have things under control and professional?

Car servicing costs can be quite daunting so make sure you also pick a car service centre that will give you an estimate of the cost of work prior to beginning. The last thing you need is to return to the shop and discover your oil change turned into a transmission servicing. Many times mobile car servicing companies will gladly offer you a free estimate or one at a very good rate. You can then compare estimates between garages and pick the one that is best for you and your circumstances.

All cars have a listing of required regular maintenance and servicing recommendations. These recommendations are there for a reason, if you don't change those belts, update those fluids and flush that system when you are told to, you will have a much bigger headache down the road. Just look at rotating tyres. It is recommended that you do so. When you don't, tyres wear unevenly and you get a flat tyre. It is not worth the hassle to ignore maintenance requirements for your vehicle.

Selecting a car service centre that will provide all your maintenance needs regularly is beneficial to you and your car. They will become familiar with your car and will be able to tell you when you need work done, they will have a vested interest in keeping your car running to keep you coming back and they often will give you better prices once you show that you will keep coming back for all your servicing needs.

Although you might find a cheap car service, which is a bonus, the most important thing to look for is a car service centre which will keep your car on the road with little to no down time. You want to make sure you can call them whenever a problem arises as well as count on them to only fix what truly needs to be fixed. So do your research and find the one that will best suit you and then stick with them like you would a doctor. They will get to know your car like your doctor gets to know your heart and hopefully will take great care with their servicing.

Extreme Couponing

Couponing refers to the art, sport, and science, of using coupons to save money. With just a little time each week spent clipping, and maybe browsing the web, you can save hundreds of dollars on groceries, and even car maintenance. It may seem like a chore, but if you keep track of how much you save it can be addictively fun, exciting, and very useful. Here are a few tips with some useful information to get you started.

Groceries

For most people, grocery couponing is the obvious place to start. The pages of coupons that come in the mail each week have so much to offer, and if you make coupon clipping a weekly routine this is the easiest way to save. To make sure you do not let them expire each week, maybe leaving them stuck to the fridge under a magnet (or several if you have been clipping frequently), you might want to invest in a coupon book to take to the store with you. If it is already in your bag with your wallet, you will be much more likely to remember it as you shop.

Car Maintenance and Repair

As you peruse the weekly coupon delivery, the special deals on car maintenance may slip your mind if car maintenance is not something you tend to think about. However, chances are good that you will end up needing the services being offered at some point or another. Clip all of these coupons, just in case. If the deal is for something other than routine maintenance, you should save it in case of an emergency. If it is something more routine, like an oil change, try to figure out the last time you got that service, and look for a coupon online.

Indulgences

Everyone needs to indulge every once in a while. Indulging can be different for everyone. Whether you like fancy chocolates, massages, amusement parks, or really anything that is fun but not part of your day to day life, you can probably find a coupon for it. More and more deals like this are showing up on the internet, so you may want to visit websites of businesses you use regularly for special offerings (you may have to sign up, but some you can browse without giving out your email address). Couponing is a great way to save on the things for all of your everyday expenses.

Free Auto Repair Manuals - Can You Get Auto Repair Manuals Online For Free?

Free auto repair manuals are in high demand to anyone who is in need of information to help in repairing their car. With the internet now being available in most home across the United States when someone is in need of any type of information, the first thing that they usually do is go online to see if they can get it for free. So - it would be normal when looking for information on how to repair your car to try to find a site that would have the information and not have to pay for it.

Here are some ways that you can try to get free auto repair manual information.

1) Go to one of the search engines (such as Google, MSN or AOL) and type in the type of automobile, year and a small description of your problem. For example if you were trying to fix a problem with your brakes, transmission or tires for your Honda Civic, you might type in something like "Honda civic brakes" into the search engine. Sometimes you might get lucky and find an active forum where you can search for posts related to your auto repair problem.

2) Another option to get free access to auto repair manuals would be to go to your local library. Many libraries carry auto repair manuals for various makes and models of cars. I would suggest that you call ahead to see if the library does carry reference manuals such as those for car repairs in their reference section.

The fact is that there are no free auto repair manual sites available online. There are alternative options however - these options include using online stores, auction sites and subscription services. All of these options do cost you money - but it is still cheaper to purchase a manual and make your repairs yourself than to pay a mechanic to do it.

Windshield Repair: What Everyone Needs To Know

WINDSHIELD REPAIR: WHAT IS IT?

Your vehicle's windshield is composed of three layers: two pieces of glass separated by a thin layer of "PVB" (polyvinyl butyrate). PVB is the plastic film that essentially holds it all together. Depending on the density of the outer-layer and the force of a rock impact, the glass can flex and break. Unless the windshield is completely shattered, most often the damage is in the form of a rock chip. These are generally in the shape of a star, bullseye, or tiny crack. Although it may appear innocuous, over time, a rock chip will more likely than not spread to form a crack. Studies have shown that over 90% of rock chips continue to grow. Fatigue stress due to temperature changes and road conditions work to accelerate this process.

The first company to introduce a rudimentary system for windshield repair was 3m, with a product called "Scotch Weld." This system produced an ultrasound vibration to clean the break while injecting an adhesive. It was relatively effective; however it failed to repair many types of damage.

In 1972, Dr. Frank Werner invented a device that could substitute the air within a rock chip with a resin that could prevent a crack from developing. Over time, the science behind windshield repair evolved. Today, windshield repair is considered a favored alternative to windshield replacement in many circumstances. And although the science has evolved, the objective remains the same: to completely substitute the air within the break with an acrylic resin that will improve optical clarity, prevent further damage, and restore the structural integrity of the windshield.

THE WINDSHIELD CONUNDRUM: REPAIR OR REPLACE?

Windshield repair is essentially preventative maintenance. However, most motorists whose windshields suffer rock damage pay little or no mind to it. This is especially true where the damage is outside of the acute area of the windshield - not directly in front of the driver's view. Hence the saying: "out of sight, out of mind."

Once the rock chip spreads to become a large crack, windshield repair is no longer a viable option. Unfortunately, the cost of a new windshield can range anywhere between $300 to well over $1000, depending on the vehicle and the type of replacement windshield. OEM windshields, those made by the original manufacturer, are significantly more expensive than their aftermarket counterparts. In addition, many modern windshields offer features such as heating elements, sun coatings, and antennae, which significantly inflate the cost. Even with insurance, the deductible can be so high that it would be pointless to file an insurance claim. Thus, it is easy to understand why a $50 windshield repair is a favored alternative.

But cost is not the only issue. Once a factory windshield is replaced, other problems can surface. Windshield replacement compromises the factory seal, which is nearly impossible to replicate. Not only can an improperly replaced windshield lead to leakage and possible water damage, it can fail in the event of an accident.

Together with the air bags and seatbelts, the windshield plays a significant part of the vehicle's safety restraint system (SRS). In an accident, the windshield works to maintain the structural integrity of the passenger compartment. As you can imagine, this is especially important in the event of a roll-over accident. It also cushions the occupant's impact and prevents the possibly of being ejected from the vehicle. An improperly installed windshield could fail on all of these fronts.

An investigative report conducted by ABC's 20/20 shed light into the dangers surrounding improperly installed windshields. It found that millions of windshields have not been installed properly and have contributed to serious injuries and even death.

So there are many reasons why a vehicle owner should opt for windshield repair early on. Ignoring the small and seemingly unintrusive rock chip could prove to be a mistake.

WINDSHIELDS: THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Every year about 15 million windshields - about 600 million pounds of waste - are replaced in the United States. Until recently, much of it has ended up in landfills due to logistical obstacles, difficulties with separating the glass from the PVB, and lack of facilities.

Only recently have companies begun to take up the environmental cause. In 2010, JN Phillips Auto Glass launched its "Green Shield" program and began recycling windshields. To date, over a million pounds of used windshields have been successfully recycled. Still, the process is slow, cumbersome, and expensive. It also involves the transportation of massive amounts of windshields, adding to the carbon footprint.

What is more, windshield recycling is not required by law, so most replaced windshields continue to end up in landfills. The reason is simple economics: lack of incentive to recycle. As of yet, windshield recycling is not subsidized by the government, nor is it given considerable preferential tax treatment. Since the cost of recycling eventually shifts to the consumer, the cost of a new windshield would increase significantly. To compete in the competitive free market world of windshield replacement, recycling is simply not cost effective.

Windshield repair, on the other hand, leaves almost no impact on the environment. Whereas about 250,000 BTU's are necessary to manufacture a typical 30 pound windshield, windshield repair requires practically no energy. What is more, the amount of waste generated from windshield repair is negligible. Thus, windshield repair is always a greener alternative to replacement.

INSURANCE COMPANIES: THEY GET IT

Insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against risk of contingent, uncertain loss. The insurer agrees to indemnify the insured in the event of a loss. Overall, it's a pretty simple process. However, a significant portion the claim may not be covered by the insurer. This is known as the deductible - the amount that must be paid out of pocket before an insurer will cover any expenses. The average deductible for both collision and comprehensive claims is roughly around $500. This can be difficult to digest when the time comes to file a claim. In many cases, the insured will simply forgo filing the claim to avoid having to pay the deductible and possibly risk an increase in premiums. Not to mention, if a new windshield costs $400, filing a claim would be pointless with a $500 deductible.

Today, most insurance companies understand the importance of having the windshield repaired before it's too late. To incentivize motorists to repair rock chips and small cracks, a majority of comprehensive policies carry with it a 100% indemnity on windshield repair. No deductible is required. Insurance companies realize that most rock chips inevitably will require a new windshield if left untreated. In most cases the rock chip will be a certain loss.

So from a risk management perspective, insurance companies benefit by paying the full cost of a windshield repair. First, it eliminates the risk that the insurer will be required to pay significantly more for a new windshield. And second, it eliminates the risk that a damaged or replaced windshield could fail to provide the structural integrity necessary in the event of an accident.

DO IT YOURSELF KITS: DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME

There are many inexpensive DIY (Do-It-Yourself) windshield repair kits on the market. Those that come to mind include "Liquid Glass," "Pitstop," and "Fix-A-Windshield," to name a few. These are simple plastic devices that essentially use the same process. Most cost around $10 to $20 and have a one time use.

Reviews on DIY kits vary greatly. Some report good results, while others regret making their own attempt at repair. The only certainty is that a successful repair is not certain.

According to Edmunds.com, these kits are essentially "inexpensive band-aids" that don't provide a complete repair. The reason is simple science. The basic idea of windshield repair is to remove the air contained within the rock chip and completely substitute it with resin, which can be up to 2000 times as dense as air. Removing the air is essential to minimize the pressure inside the rock chip, allowing the resin to flow and reach the entire break. Unfortunately, cheap DIY kits simply are ineffective at removing all of the air. What is more, they do not provide the amount of pressure necessary to force the resin to reach tighter areas of the break, leaving much of it untouched. What may appear to be a decent repair job may in fact just be a band-aid that will fail to prevent a crack from spreading.

Finally, cheap windshield repair kits are just that: cheap. It follows that the resin used to fill the break is also cheap. Acrylic resin used by professional windshield repair technicians can range from $50 to $100 an ounce, depending on the manufacturer. So it makes sense that the resin from a DIY kit repair can dislodge over time or become discolored, which has been reported by many users. Also, once the repair is complete, it is impossible to re-repair.