9 Summer Car Tips to Beat The Heat

Summer surely is a great time for fun. Outdoor activities abound and families often take this opportunity to hit the road for a long trip. This is the time of the year that vacation travel is at its peak. According to AAA (Approved Auto Repair) 40 million people traveled for the 4th of July event, just for this year alone.

Needless to say, there are more people bound to drive their cars to auto repair shops for breakdowns and other car issues due to improper maintenance. So if you have plans for a long travel on the road, it is best to make the necessary preparations ahead of time.

According to Car Care Council, the common car issues are found in the cooling system, tires, and batteries. Therefore, deliberately keep an eye on these three items of your car to ensure safety and smooth driving performance all throughout your travel.

However, do not neglect to check on the following as well as they are tantamount to the safety and maintenance of your car: brakes, air conditioning, belts and hoses, windshield wipes, filters and fluids.

Cooling System

It is during this time that cars overheating are bountiful. To avoid getting into such trouble, always check the water level of your water radiator. Make sure to fill it with coolant and water, equally measured. Take this chance to check on the hoses as well. In case you experience overheat while on the road, remember not to open the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Doing so can cause serious burn to the person.  Always fill from the overflow container.

Tires

Getting a new set of tires is best. However, buying one every time you take a trip is not practical at all. Hence, it is also suggested that every car owner must know how to determine when it is time to replace an old worn out tire , but having a great relationship with you local tire repair shop can take all the guesses out of your tire safety.

To check your tire, bring out a penny, with the head side down and place it between the treads. If you can clearly see the head, I’m sorry but it is time for you to shop for a new set of tires.

Next is to check on the tire inflation level. You must use a tire pressure gauge to get the correct pressure as recommended in your manual or door plaque. Improper inflation or tire pressure level can cause havoc especially when driving  at a fast speed. Over inflated on the other hand is also not safe, as it can cause hydroplaning on wet pavement. with the combination of worn tires with no tread to grab the road.  Rotate, Inflate & Evaluate!

Brakes

Brakes are also important to your safety. Long drive or not, brakes should be checked regularly. Most cars have built-in indicators on the brake pad. The moment  you hear a high squeal, this is a signal to have the brakes looked at, delaying  can cause more monies that could have been a simple repair.

For cars that do not have sensors, you need to trust your hearing ability & the feel of your brake pedal.  If brake pads are completely worn out, normally you will hear grinding and squeaky sounds. Cleaning the brakes may eliminate noises, but if the noise continues to exist you should have it checked right away and get it replaced by your professional.

Batteries

Excessive heat depletes the water in your battery. Good thing today’s batteries are maintenance-free and completely sealed. But if you own an unsealed battery, checking the water level is necessary, remember to top it off with distilled water.

Windshield Wipes

Windshield wipers must be in tip top condition especially during summer. Summer rainstorms is dangerous when driving around with worn out windshield wipers. Take into consideration the winter season which might have taken its toll on your wipers. Don't  take any chances, scratching of your windshield will cost you more than a pair of wipers.

Belts and Hoses

It is best to follow the recommended mileage intervals in changing belts and hoses. This could save you from getting stranded in the middle of nowhere while on a long trip under the scorching heat of the summer.  Extreme heat areas will wear quicker the rubber in drying them out and cracking.  These are visual items you can check  for yourself, rubber should be pliable not stiff.

Fluids

Always keep fluids at its proper level especially your vehicle’s oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid and coolant to avoid expensive repairs.

Filters

Changing your oil and air filters regularly gives better gas mileage saving you money especially during summer when prices goes up. Plus, it allows you to enjoy a smooth driving performance making long trips comfortable despite summer heat.

A/C Check-Up 

                                                  

Summer heat can cause excessive sweating, irritation, inconvenience and more. Well-maintained air-conditioning system makes traffic or long driving easy and convenient.

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                          firststoptyres

                         The Tire Zoo

                         Emma Watson

                         David Swink

                         David Harrington

                         6mt

                         hoganandsonsinc

                          

                         

Finding a Trustworthy Auto Repair Shop In Arizona

Trustworthy auto repair shops in Arizona are not hard to find if you really want to look for one. All you need is an extra time and patience. Being impatient will lead you to go to the first auto repair shop that you pass by. Impulsiveness in your decision will not help you in finding the best auto repair shop that can work on your vehicle effectively.

How do you find a good auto repair shop?

There are many ways to find or locate a good auto repair shop. You can ask from your fellow workers, family, relatives and friends on which auto repair shops they have visited that gives good services and have nice facilities. You can also check out the web and visit their websites. You must then visit their shop as well to see their establishments yourself.  And more importantly, the quality of their services should be considered and not merely on how the shop appears.

In Arizona, there are lots of auto repair shops that have been known to provide their customers with great quality services. You just have to find one that is more accessible to your daily trip, either near your office or your home.

These auto repair shops in Arizona can handle anything regarding your car problems like engine repairs, tune-ups, shocks replacement, air condition repairs, brakes, manual and automatic transmissions, belts, clutches and many more.  They also offer extended nationwide warranty on repairs and parts that their shop have replaced. Companies that provide warranty to their services is one factor that assures you of an excellent service.

These repair shops possess special tools and equipments needed for every car problem and employs only well-trained car technicians to do the job efficiently and correctly. With these, you will feel comfortable and assured that your car is in good hands.

How would you know a good and trustworthy repair shop?

Trustworthy auto repair shops should have functional facilities and friendly attendants. They should have a clean working environment. A waiting area should also be present to make you feel at home and that their customers will feel very comfortable while waiting for their cars to be fixed.

A commendable auto car repair shop should have television, food and drinks available for sale, newspapers and magazine for the costumers to read. Providing them with these items keep them busy while waiting avoiding boredom to manifest. A play area , when possible for kids is also a good idea so that parents will not be distracted with their kids getting bored.

Clean restrooms is also one factor that makes an auto repair shop efficient especially to women. It is inevitable that people use restrooms anytime of the day. What if you have a customer who badly needs to go to the bathroom? Wouldn’t it be frustrating if you cannot provide him one? Restrooms are basic necessities and these should be available at any time in your shop especially if most of your clients stick around until their cars are fixed.

Are there any good repair shops in Arizona?

Yes! There are good repair shops in Arizona who can offer you the most convenient facilities, efficient and reliable services and friendly staff. To find them, simply remember to look for Auto repair shops that are ASE certified. They are bound to follow the laws that are provided by the State of Arizona. As the competition is also stiff, they always make sure to provide their customers the latest in technology used in car repairs.

Let us suggest doing your homework for a competent female friendly facility:

AskPatty.com (female oriented auto repair online info/locations across the country, Narpro.com (National Auto Repair Professionals), LocalFirstAZ.com (local AZ facilities-not national chains), BBB.org, & ArizonaTirePros.com to name a few....

Knowing The Signs of Transmission Problems

Transmission problem is not a common issue. It would take years after the purchase before these problems manifest and knowing the symptoms must be considered to avoid further damage. Having a regular scheduled check up will help you anticipate possible transmission issues to occur, thus, you are able to prevent it from happening.

Remember that transmission replacement or repair is a gruelling effort to do and is quite expensive so to speak. That is why it is virtually important to address any off activities that your car is undergoing. Always pay attention even to the littlest detail. Make sure to adhere to the scheduled maintenance, doing so will help keep your transmission perform well for a longer period.

Therefore, it is recommended that every car owner should learn the common types of transmission issues so that problems can be detected right away before damage becomes worse. Here are some noticeable signs when you’re having a transmission issue with your car:

1. Engine warning light on the dashboard is on.

When the engine light is turned on, it clearly indicates that something is wrong with your car, in particular, your transmission. Although, it doesn’t automatically point out that one’s the engine warning light is on your transmission is also affected. It could mean other parts of the car. But then again, it is wise to have your car check immediately if the warning sign catches your attention.

2. Brake fluid leaking

Ignoring leaking brake fluid is one of the top car issues that causes damage to your transmission. The ATF or automatic transmission fluid is very important as it lubricates, cleans and conditions the seals of your vehicle. It also acts as the hydraulic fluid. Without it, the engine will not function

Leaking is actually the easiest symptom car owners can detect if their car needs to be check immediately. Seeing this sign should not be ignored and must be address to right away.

3. Unusual and disturbing noise

Clunking, buzzing and whining noise are just some of the sounds that you hear when there is a problem with your transmission. Unusual car noises can make you wonder and ask yourself, where is that noise coming from? What is that noise? If you’re in this kind of situation, it is suggested that you let your mechanic check your vehicle right away. Diagnosing the problem early and repairing it as soon as possible keeps you from further headache and will be less costly on your part.

4. Grinding sound whenever you change gears

When you hear a grinding sound, it is a sign that your engine lack brake fluid. Without brake fluid, stepping on the clutch pedal prevents the clutch to push the lever on the transmission in full, therefore the transmission is having a hard time shifting into another gear.

5. Odd odor

If you notice an odd smell of something burnt is another sign of a transmission problem. The smell comes from the burned clutch lining which is very essential in shifting gears. Over using your clutch or clutch driving is mainly the causes of such problem.

6. Gear breaking out

While driving, if you experience your gear breaking out or slipping out from engagement then this is an indication that something is wrong with your transmission. This should be taken to a shop for diagnosis then have it repaired right away. Gear that is breaking out is detrimental to your safety especially when driving, either going up or down a slope. This is one problem that should not be ignored or neglected.

7. Car does not move

After starting the engine and your car still do not move after engaging the gear is another sign of a transmission issue. Even when you step hard on the gas pedal, it still won’t run. Usually this is due to a transmission lining problem.

These signs should always be kept in mind to avoid accident on the road. If you notice something like these, then have your car checked by a well-trained and experienced technician at a reputable auto repair shop.

Scheduled check up is indeed vital and car owners must prioritize matters like this. Even when your car is performing well, it is best not to skip scheduled maintenance. Preventing accidents from happening is better than blaming yourself after. The cost of car maintenance is far cheaper than having to have your vehicle repaired due to damage. So don’t wait for problems to occur, always adhere to your schedule vehicle maintenance. And if early signs of vehicle issues occur, don’t ignore it, bring your car to your local repair shop right away.

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