Things You Need to Know if You Own a Volkswagon

There are a lot of benefits to driving a foreign vehicle. They have different features that many people enjoy, they provide different safety features some families require and they might even provide a different level of comfort that you can’t find in a domestic car. Having a foreign car is a choice each person can make since this is a free country. But with making that decision, one shouldn’t have to be punished when it comes time for repairs! How do you find a reputable auto technician who is certified to handle foreign cars? Who can you trust on your Volkswagon engine or system when there is something not quite right with it?

There are a few places to turn to when you need repairs done on a specific make of car. If you bought it from a dealer, you can check with them for repairs if they are close by. But sometimes the dealer is not close and it isn’t convenient to drive all the way back. And in other cases, you might have purchased a car from a dealership, but if it isn’t their specialty brand, they might not have any certified Volkswagon repair technicians either.  This could be the case if you bought a used car from a lot. Check with the dealership to see what engines that are certified to fix before you schedule an appointment.

The next option you have to finding a Volkswagon certified engine repair person is to use the Internet. The Internet can provide search results for all independent repair shops in your zip code or surrounding region. Visit the webpages of each and see if they state they have certified technicians. If they have reviews listed on the website, read those over too and see what the general opinion of the place is. If they provide certified technicians and seem like a decent place, call and get a feel firsthand.

When you call a dealership or a repair center, feel free to ask any questions. Their willingness to answer questions might also provide insight on how they are going to handle you and your problem. Are they in a hurry to get you off the phone? Do they appear rude or bored with you and your questions? Your first impression is usually a good one, so take it to heart. If you don’t receive good vibes from your initial contact, no matter how glowing their reviews were online, then feel free to call another place.

Getting a certified technician is worth the effort. Having someone certified to handle Volkswagon repairs means there will be less expense involved, less time wasted and more comfort and peace of mind for you, knowing the job was done right by someone trained on your specific engine.

Choosing a Jeep Repair Specialist

As you are trying to cook dinner and it seems like the oven is just not heating up, who is the first person on your list to call? A spouse or a friend could look at your oven, but if they have no training in oven repair, then they probably won’t be able to find and fix a problem.  The next step would be to call a professional so the oven can be repaired. Can an HVAC repair man do the job? They work with heating elements and an oven gets hot, so a repairman is a repairman, right?

Wrong. The only person who should fix an oven is an oven technician. And the same goes for certain types of vehicles when you have a problem that needs attention. When you have a Jeep brand of vehicle that needs a tune up or a repair, the best idea is to take it to an auto tech that is certified with that brand.  Another technician might be able to look at your Jeep and find a problem, but it might take a lot longer and cost a lot more. Why?

A Jeep specialist is trained on specific systems for that vehicle. When you are looking for a specialist to fix your vehicle, ask if they are certified. The certified Jeep technician has been to training by the manufacturer of that certain brand and will be able to work within any system on it. Knowing they are certified means that they can find a problem faster and get the correct parts in order to have it fixed and back on the road sooner, too.

When you are choosing a Jeep specialist, it might be hard to decide who to go with. When you have more than one option, it is a good thing to have! Picking between the two might be a challenge, however. In order to choose, ask to see references. These references could be posted on a website of the auto center, listed on a review page on the Internet or even given word of mouth by friends who drive Jeeps. People are often always honest about both good and bad experiences when it comes to car repairs, so you can trust the information you receive on the topic.

Another item to look for when choosing a Jeep specialist is their service attitude. Did they answer any questions you had when you called to ask about certification? Were they friendly? Did they seem open to working with you and your vehicle? First impressions matter and if they treat potential customers like they were customers, then it is a sign they will treat everyone with a professional attitude and get your Jeep fixed quick.

Tips to Get Your Toyota Fixed Properly

Tips to Get Your Toyota Fixed Properly
By Ron Haugen

There are a lot of vehicles that are fairly common driving down the road that didn't use to be just twenty years ago. What does that mean for the person who drives that car now? It means they will have better luck when it comes to repairs and getting service on that vehicle. Instead of just using any old shop that would agree to try and perform repairs, it means that there are actual certified technicians who can handle any job quickly and efficiently on your car. And that is a breath of fresh air.

For Toyota owners, the 1980s were an especially brutal time. There was a backlash against the vehicle because people used them as a scapegoat to blame the poor, sagging US auto market. Therefore, getting people to service the vehicles also became difficult. No one wanted to become certified on a brand that they were going to be criticized for. Now, that is no longer a problem. Being certified on a Toyota vehicle is common and done by many types of service centers across the country.

Having a Toyota certified engine mechanic is a benefit for many reasons. Even though many of the cars are produced in the States now, they are still built according to the foreign engineering standards used by their company. Some components of the engine are different than what American made engines are. Therefore, the way an engine is diagnosed and fixed is also different.

A mechanic who is certified in fixing Toyota engines can save you time and also money. They will be able to save you time because they are more familiar with the engine. They won't have to guess what certain parts and pieces are because they have been trained on it all before. There will be less guesswork involved in what they are dealing with and handling. When there is less guesswork, there is less time needed to diagnose and get started on the problem.

When a diagnosis can be made quickly, then there is less down time for you. If this is your only vehicle, you will want it back as soon as possible so you can get on with your life. If it makes a household have to juggle one car between adults and kids, then it can be troublesome at best. The certified Toyota technician will be able to diagnose the problem and get right to fixing it without wasting time on getting answers to questions they have about the make and model.

Toyota certified mechanics also save you money because they usually can name the problem faster, which means less labor hours charged to you. The less labor you have, the lower your bill will be in the end.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Have a Specialist Repair Your 4 X 4 System

Have a Specialist Repair Your 4 X 4 System
By Ron Haugen

There are certain things in the automotive industry that one just doesn't leave to chance. And just like any other problem or repair that might creep up in your house, with your health or even your pet, you just want the right person to take care of the job and to do it right. So, when you 4 x 4 system needs to have a look taken at it, should you just take it to anybody and call it good? Would you take your child to the vet because they have medical training and that's close enough? No way!

Any type of vehicle you drive should go to a repair technician who is certified to handle that make of car. The same goes when there are specialty systems within a car that need repair work done on them. Chances are, the system needed a person with special knowledge to install it if it was an after-market accessory, so why would a repair or a check up on that accessory be any different than needing a specialist? It isn't.

Taking your 4 x 4 vehicle to a service center for repairs or just a tune up is a smart idea. Having someone who is certified and trained in handling the 4 x 4 system is a better idea. There are a lot of reasons why going to a specialist is a good idea and they include your time and money. The two things that most people love to have and always want more of are often dealt with in an auto repair shop.

When your vehicle is being serviced by a professional who knows 4 x 4 systems, there is less opportunity for errors. A problem can be diagnosed faster, simply because they are more familiar with 4 x 4's and how they operate and run. The less guesswork there is in finding a problem, the less down time there will be with a vehicle. Once the problem is diagnosed and you approve the quote, the technician can go about fixing it.

Another positive aspect of using a certified 4 x 4 repair tech is that since they are familiar with the system, they can do the actual repair faster. There isn't time spent looking up pieces in manuals and figuring out how a part works. They know it from experience and can get right to the heart of the matter and have it repaired. The less time that they spend working on it, the lower your bill will be as well. Because everyone knows that time equals money when it comes to repairing any problem with any type of vehicle, whether it is a 4 x 4 system or not.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Exactly Are Xeon Headlights?

What Exactly Are Xeon Headlights?

By Ron Haugen

For people who are buying new or fairly new cars, you might realize that the headlights are a bit different. The popular halogen lights are now being replaced by what is called HID lights. HID stands for high intensity discharge lights and are powered by xenon gas. Xenon lights are brighter, last longer and are generally safer for the driver of the car. But the new lights also have a few downsides to them that need to be worked out.

The first HID bulbs using xenon were introduced in high end luxury cars in the early 1990s. These cars had such a difference in view in the dark hours that more manufacturers adopted these styles of lights. They refined the lights to keep making them safer and easier to use in all makes of cars. Now, Xenon powered HID lights can be made available for most makes and models of vehicles.

Xenon is a gas that powers the light bulb, like neon and other gases do. They provide an electric arc, which is a more powerful beam to radiate out from the headlight position. While this provides more light for safety, they cost a bit more as well. There isn't a filament to burn out inside the light bulb like in the past, so the light will last a lot longer. The longer lasting technology will also cost a bit more to the consumer. However, when you don't have to go to a dealership as often and pay for them to install new light bulbs, the savings might work out more towards the car driver's favor.

Lights from xenon gas appear bluish when they are coming down the road towards you. The bluish tint helps to detract from the brightness in a person looking at them, but they still produce a powerful beam to highlight the road in front or if anything were to jump out from the side of the road. Some people are distracted by the blue light, but it just takes a bit to get used to it and a driver can pass a car with those lights with no problem.

Even though more headlights is a good thing on a dark and curvy road, it can be a bad thing to an oncoming car. Headlight glare can cause accidents since people can't see where the road is because of temporary blindness. Make sure if you drive a vehicle with xenon headlights that they are pointed in the correct direction to maximize what you can see and lessen the impact on oncoming traffic.

No matter if you use xenon lights or not, get the burned out headlight replaced promptly. Not having bright lights can be a detriment to your driving abilities at night and for other cars coming against you in traffic.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Is Bio-Diesel Fuel?

What Is Bio-Diesel Fuel?

By Ron Haugen

For people who spend a lot of time on the road, going to the gas station might become a love-hate type of thing. Filling up can be an expensive thing to do when you have regular gasoline for the engine. For people who are looking at new cars, bio-diesel might be thrown out regularly by the salesperson, but you don't really understand what that means to you as the buyer. Is it cheaper? Does it make the car run differently? Does bio-diesel save you money in the long run, no matter how many miles you drive each year in the vehicle?

Bio-diesel is actually a good thing to have in your car for many reasons. Bio-diesel is a product that is created in the United States. Therefore, having bio-diesel powered cars means that we won't be dependent on other countries allowing us to get their oil and process it in to gasoline. It won't matter what the countries do because we won't have to rely on their supplies to power out vehicles.

Since the product is produced and manufactured in the US, then there is also less charges for shipping. The overall price per gallon will be less to produce which in turn means less per gallon the end user has to pay. And by having a product made and manufactured in the US, then US jobs are supported and keeping money in the US.
Bio-diesel is produced from renewable resources like vegetable oil. There is a process which breaks down the components so that they are able to work within an engine. Bio-diesel does not have to have petroleum in it, but it can be added to make up a biodiesel blend used in automobiles.

Biodiesel is a more affordable option but it is also a smarter option for the environment. Since it is made of renewal resources, it can easily be produced without harming the environment. Biodiesel fuel is non-toxic and biodegradable if it were to ever spill, get in the ground water or have a mishap in nature. Biodiesel also contains no sulfur, make it much safer for all who handle it from the processing plant to those who pump it in to vehicles.

Biodiesel can only be used in engines that are built for it. It cannot be added to a vehicle simply because you want to switch over to the product. If you are looking for a new car, the salesperson can direct you to the vehicles that only need bio-diesel to run. The biodiesel engines can often work with regular fuel in them, but not vice versa. Don't add bio-diesel to your engine if you aren't sure or before checking with the auto repair person who handles your car.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Function Does a Cabin Air Filter Serve in My Car?

What Function Does a Cabin Air Filter Serve in My Car?

By Ron Haugen

As you drive down the road and realize you are getting hot, you turn on the AC and expect to wait a few minutes for the air to get cool and make the rest of the ride comfortable. But it doesn't get cool after a few minutes. A smack on the dashboard returns no more results and you give in and roll down the window a crack. What is wrong with the AC now when it worked just fine a week ago. Or did it?

Many air conditioning systems in cars that were built after the year 2000 have what is called a cabin air filter inside of them. The cabin air filter sits outside of the engine area and filters air that comes from the outside and in to the AC system. The air filter will get rid of a lot of pollutants getting in the cabin of the vehicle. But, imagine a filter on the outside and what else it can pick up when it drives down the road, mile after mile? Cabin air filters can easily get clogged.

A cabin air filter that hasn't been changed recently can make the AC in the car not work or not work as efficiently. With a clogged air filter, no air can get in - it is simple as that. So when you recently tried to turn on the AC and it didn't produce results, it might be an easy fix as to just switch out the filter.

Skipping the filter can be expensive if you don't have the ability to do it yourself. However, it isn't something you can go without doing, especially if you have discovered the AC doesn't work. Check with your mechanic or dealer and see what the cost is for a filter. They might even be able to look at it and see if that is initially the problem or if there is something else, more sinister going on with the AC system.

The cabin air filter works to keep bad air out of the cabin when it comes in for the cooling process. The air molecules it can keep out include pollen, dirt from the road, pollutants from the air, road grime, dust, dirt, leaves and anything else flying around on the road. The air filter works just like a filter does on the furnace of the home or an air purifying system. Frequent changing of the filters is best and will keep everyone inside a little bit healthier. The cleaner the air, the better it is for those with allergies or even asthma and need to have clean air in order to feel good all of the time.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Hybrid Vehicles - How They Work?

Hybrid Vehicles - How They Work

By Ron Haugen

Hybrid vehicles used to be considered space aged and "ugly" looking. The first ones were so aerodynamic they looked like space capsules going down the road. But now, with technological improvements and so many vehicles adapting the look, hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular and the norm in the United States. But what exactly makes them a popular choice for people? How do they even work to save on gas or energy? Why should you consider a hybrid for your next vehicle?

Hybrid vehicles can be considered hybrids for a few reasons. The very first hybrid cars were space capsule looking because they needed to have the least air resistance as possible so they did get decent gas mileage. Or could drive with an electric charge. Now, hybrids look like any other vehicle from the exterior and it is only what is under the hood that makes them a hybrid vehicle.

Small cars, mid sized cars and even SUVs can be a hybrid vehicle. A hybrid simply means that the traditional method of powering a car with gasoline is combined with another form, such as electricity or alternative fuels. Alternative fuels could be bio-diesel, ethanol or even a different type of energy source. Make sure that no matter what type you use, it is allowed in the user manual and recommended for your engine type.

You can't simply make any vehicle a hybrid, even if you just want to. The car needs to be set up to have an electrical charge if it runs on electricity. Or it needs to have an engine to handle the different types of fuel besides gasoline. Taking a regular gasoline powered engine at the stations and filling up with ethanol will do nothing but ruin the engine in the car you currently have.

Hybrid vehicles reduce the use of gasoline and make things better in a lot of ways. The greenhouse gases are lower since the fuel doesn't have to be processed for the car. The oil isn't shipped from other countries, lessening the dependence on oil from other countries. And you are spending less money simply because you can combine gas with other fuel sources and not have to pay a ridiculous amount per gallon in order to go somewhere.

The engine will still power the car and the brakes will still stop the car. The only difference between a hybrid and a regular vehicle is that a hybrid has flexible options when it comes to powering it up. Hybrids with options will become more popular in the future as the price of gas continues to go up and oil from other countries continues to be unreliable in price and availability.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Are Fluid Flushes?

What Are Fluid Flushes?

By Ron Haugen

To make every component in the car run properly, it usually requires a fluid. The fluid can either help power the movement, lubricate the action of the parts or either help a part run safer. With repeated and heavy use of these fluids, how long can they last? Do they evaporate? Do they get dirty? How do you know when it is time for new fluid?

A mechanic at your shop will be able to answer your specific questions on fluids, but in general, you should at least know what types of fluids are in your car and when it is time for a fluid flush. Fluid flushes can happen with the transmission, the brakes and even with the radiator. A fluid flush cleans the old fluid out of the system and new fluid is replaced.

All the Types of Fluid

The fluid in your car systems includes windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, anti-freeze and oil. Those are the big ones. The oil needs to be changed every 3,000 miles or so and that is pretty common knowledge. And you add more windshield wiper fluid when it runs low (or you go to use it and nothing comes out!) But what about the rest of the fluids in your car that you do not know how to check?

An ASE technician will be able to check out the fluids in your car. They have the correct gauges to see where the levels are at and they can take a sample out and see if it is dirty. Some fluids can last forever in the car, while others need to be checked and changed as part of the routine maintenance on your car. Dirty fluids should be changed so they don't leave a buildup of dirt in parts of the engine, which could make it run poorly.

Sometimes leaks happen in the car. A leak can be spotted during a routine tune up and corrected. The leak might be a slow one and not noticeable to you. But if all of the fluid were to drain out of the power steering unit, then it would be very hard to turn. It could also be hard to stop the car if the brake fluid had all drained out. Keeping the fluids at their optimal levels will ensure that the function they are supposed to do will happen.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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When Is It Time for Tire Replacement?

When Is It Time for Tire Replacement?

By Ron Haugen

For people who don't know a lot about cars, it might be hard to determine when it is time to get things checked or changed. The sticker on the windshield lets you know when it is time to get an oil change, but there aren't usually stickers for other things, such as tire rotation, tire replacement, fluid flushes and so on.

How can you find out?

Have you noticed a bit of vibration when you go down the road lately? That vibration might mean you need the tires to get balanced or it might mean you need to replace all four of your tires. Tires come with a certain mileage life on them and if you don't know what it is, then you might not have realized when you passed it. It is also best to check all of your tires each time before you get in your car.

The number on the side of the tire tells you how many miles your tire is expected to last, but if you don't know at what point on the odometer they were installed, then you might not have any clue as to how many miles are on those tires. When you don't know how many miles are on a set of tires, then you have to eyeball it.

A certified technician can look at the tires and see where they are wore down and how much tread they have left on them. If they are low on tread or even showing bald spots, then you need to get new tires right away. Tires that have little or no tread are not safe to drive because they won't have any traction on the tires. In the rain or snow, that could make you have an accident even sooner.

Replacing tires should be done with all four at the same time. That way, you know exactly how many miles are on what tire, because they are all the same. The tires can be rotated evenly over the next months and the wear can be made more even on the tire. Spending money on all four tires when the tread is starting to wear rather than waiting until it is a lot lower or you find yourself in an accident.

There are many different tires to choose from, so you can find a set that fits in to your budget. The tires will have different tread levels and different mileage guarantees on them as well.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Why Tune Ups Are Important?

Why Tune Ups Are Important

By Ron Haugen

No matter how old - or even how new - your vehicle is, getting regular tune ups is very important. You might not think so, because if there isn't anything wrong, why fix it. But that couldn't be farther from the truth. A regular tune up might catch a problem before it becomes a problem and leaves you stranded on the side of the road. Taking your vehicle in for a scheduled tune up is also a lot more convenient than having to work around a breakdown, so why wait?

What Tune Ups Can Spot

How often do you actually open up your hood and check the components that are under it? Be honest, probably never. So you don't have the ability to spot when a belt has started to crack or looks aged. You don't know what pieces are running together more than they should be. You don't notice the fluid leaking from an engine component. Or do you?

Taking your car in to a specialist who is trained to look for any type of mishap will catch those little things you don't have time for. While they are under the hood changing the oil, they can also do a safety inspection. This inspection will look at all of the major elements under the hood and on the car. They may also check the life left on the brake pads, the tread left on the tires and how much fluid is where it is supposed to be. When all of these checks are made ahead of time, they can be corrected before they become a major problem.

A tune up might take an hour or so of your time and cost a few dollars. But just imagine how much more time and dollars could be involved if you have to wait on the side of the road, call a tow truck and then rent a car to get to work while yours gets fixed. Suddenly, a little tune up doesn't seem like it is such a put out, does it?
If you suspect something is wrong with the car, you can mention it to the mechanic when you take it in. That way they can pay extra attention to that detail when they are looking around. Spending your time wisely now will only help you to have more time in the future - NOT spent waiting around for your car to be repaired.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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Who Needs Engine Tuning?

Who Needs Engine Tuning

By Ron Haugen

You have heard of having a tune up done on your car, but what is tuning? Is that just a different term for a tune up on the car? Not really. Tuning is a form of tune up, but it is not part of the regular maintenance program needed for your car. Tune ups happen at any car dealership or auto repair place when there are small problems on the car. They can also be for checks and prevention maintenance on items of the car. Tuning involves the engine specifically.

When you are trying to grasp what tuning is, think of race car drivers. Engine tuning is when you tweek the engine you have by adjusting air intakes, fixing the idle speed and then working on the different components of the engine. What tuning sets out to do is make an engine run more efficiently, faster and to give a better overall performance.

Engine tuning does not really need to be done on regular cars. They have the engine worked on, the fluids checked and changed when needed and they run fine. Engine tuning is for people who know a little bit more about engines and want their own car to perform better. These cars might race in amateur races on the speedway nearby or they might be pulling heavy loads on a farm. All professional race car drivers spend hours a day on engine tuning, so you can see who it is most important to.

If you have an older car, you can consider engine tuning for it. There might be locations within the engine that could be updated with a different part or something new that makes it more efficient. Unless you know how to fix engines yourself, don't attempt to get under the hood and make the adjustments yourself. Hire a mechanic or an ASE technician who knows about engine modification and engine tuning specifically.

For people who take their car in for routine maintenance and the mechanic comes back and suggests engine tuning for it, you might want a second opinion before you proceed. What do you use this car or truck for? Obviously, if you haul a lot of things in your vehicle, then may want to get it checked out more often. If it is not for racing or a lot of highway driving, then you probably don't need it. Only have your engine tuned if you need to get a better performance out of it and know it is possible with a few new parts.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com

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What Are Electrical Diagnostics for Your Car

What Are Electrical Diagnostics for Your Car

By Ron Haugen

Cars are very high tech today. There is no doubt that a computer runs a lot of sensors on the car, from the oil pressure to the tire pressure to how close an object is to a car. Even if you don't have a new car, there are electrical components to your car that need a diagnosis on occasion. What are some of those electronics?

The windshield wipers on an older car are electronic. They have intermittent control, in certain vehicles there is a rear wiper. All of the wipers have a switch that controls their speed. What happens if the speed goes haywire and doesn't respond to where you turn it? You have some type of short in the circuit.

Other problems that can be electrical stem from the battery. Sure, you need gas to run your car, but if the battery won't turn over the engine to start it, you won't ever need that gas. A technician can look at your car and figure out why the circuits on your battery aren't connected right or tight and get the problem fixed. Coming out from class or work in the dark and having a car that won't start is no fun.

No matter what type of problem you are having with the car because of an electrical problem, there are a few ways to diagnose it. When a light comes on your dashboard to check the engine and you don't hear anything wrong, you might be stumped. You can take the car in to an auto parts store or even to the dealership and they have a device you can connect the car up to.

The auto parts store will allow you to do it yourself, since they aren't authorized to make a diagnosis on your car. The dealership will perform this, since they can fix your car. But what the contraption is is a box with a few wires. The wires connect to wires underneath the steering column inside of your vehicle. Once the part is connected, it will read the car's computer and be able to tell exactly what code caused the light to come on in the car. The code will be a sensor that is off, a belt going bad or some other circuit that is mis-firing within the engine or other place on your car. Once you know the code, you can have the item repaired and be back on your way.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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What You Need to Know About Brake Repair

What You Need to Know About Brake Repair

By Ron Haugen

Did you just roll up to a stop sign, apply the brakes and hear a funny metallic sound you don't remember hearing before? Or maybe you hear a grinding sound, but have ignored it for a few weeks now? Hopefully the latter is not the case, because it could be a serious problem with your brakes. The longer you go with a funny noise from the brakes region, the potential for a more expensive fix exists. The brakes might only new pads, but the longer the problem goes, they might need new rotors, calipers or something else.

Have the Brakes Checked Routinely

The brakes are something that can be checked often, when you have a routine maintenance check done or if you are having the tires rotated. Having the brake pads checked when the tires are off the vehicle is more accurate than when they are on the tires. The brake pads are measured to see how much is left and then you are given a percentage of how much brake pad is left.

Once the brake pads are getting down towards the 25% range, you should consider having them replaced. Once the pads get worn down below 50%, they can wear even faster. What might be 25% one week can be down to 15% in just a few short weeks. It is better to have the brakes replaced sooner rather than later, since you can then be assured you aren't damaging other parts of the brakes.

To repair the brakes, the car is simply put up on a lift, the tires pulled off and then the brakes looked at. Depending on how many of the parts need to be replaced will determine how long the process will take. When just the brake pads need repair, then it will only take an hour or so. When you need the brake pads, new rotors and even calipers installed, it might take a half of a day to complete the job.

Brake repair can be costly, but it is not something you can go without on the car. When the brakes don't work properly, the car won't stop properly. A car that cannot stop when predicted will get in accidents or be scary to take out on the road. As soon as you suspect a brake problem, have it checked out by an ASE technician so you can get the problem fixed if it exists.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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What Is Undercoating?

What Is Undercoating?

By Ron Haugen

How many times have you washed your car in the driveway, taking extra car with cleaning the wheels and making sure every piece of dirt was cleaned off the sides? After you have washed your car each time, have you then also spent as much time cleaning and caring for the bottom of your car, where all of the really important pieces lay? Nope? Why not?

Under your car is where it is important to clean. There are tie rods, brake parts, cables, line and all types of bolts and screws that get dirty, covered in oil, tar or whatever else is on the road. Shouldn't those items be kept clean over other, surface parts of your car? Yes. And that is why undercoating was created.

Undercoating is available in a few different ways for your vehicle. When you buy the car, you can elect to have a special application put on the car. This is especially useful in northern regions, or if you drive in places that have snow, salt on the roads, dirt or heavy traffic that throws up oil and dirt. The undercoating is a layer that is spread over the bottom of your vehicle and will keep it cleaner than if you opted to not have it sprayed on. The undercoating will protect the undercarriage of the car from soaking up all of the bad materials from the outdoors that could make it deteriorate faster.

Another way to get undercoating is when you go to an automatic car wash. As an option with your wash, you can get the car washed and then have an undercoating spray put on at the very end. This spray job won't be as thick as if it were applied at the dealership, but something is always better than nothing.

One other benefit of having undercoating on your car is that is can create a seal over tiny holes in the car. These holes sealed up will make your ride quieter as you go down the road. Everybody likes to have a quieter ride, right?

Undercoating can be an expense you really didn't plan on, but it is also one that can prolong the life of your car, which might save you money in the long run. Undercoating doesn't take very long at all, if you opt to wait while it is done. The short wait and the small expense now is worth having a car last longer in the future.

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Why Are Diesel Repairs Different Than Other Engine Repairs

Why Are Diesel Repairs Different Than Other Engine Repairs

By Ron Haugen

There was a time a few years ago when everyone wanted to jump on the bandwagon for diesel engine cars. Diesel was cheap, the cars ran just as good and people liked them. Until the manufacturers of diesel realized they could make some extra money by changing the price of the fuel needed in order to run these types of engines. Down went the popularity of diesel engines in cars.

But diesel engines still exist. They often power the bigger vehicles, like school buses, semi-trucks and delivery trucks that are on the road today. Why are these vehicles still powered by diesel when it costs more to power the car? Because they are built differently and works better with heavier vehicles.

There are a lot of differences between the diesel motors and the regular engine of a car that is powered by gasoline. The biggest difference is how the car starts. A diesel engine compresses air first and then heats up, and then the fuel (diesel) ignites and powers the engine. The other engines has the fuel mixed with the air and then get compressed by the piston chambers, causing it to fire and power the car.

Technicians have argued that the they work more efficiently with big loads, therefore trucks and buses have largely remained diesel. What happens when you need to fix that type of engine? In reality, it really isn't that big of a difference. Engines are engines are engines, so they have a lot of components that are the same. However, the pistons, the fuel chambers and the air intake are what vary.

A mechanic can go to school to simply work on diesel engines alone. They can specialize in them to make themselves desirable to hire at a dealership that sells semis or they can market themselves to a dealership that sells and services both kinds of engines. A diesel mechanic might be able to fix a regular engine, but they would also be able to focus on and diagnose a problem with a diesel engine more easily than someone who is not specially trained on it is.

Having a diesel engine might not save you money on fuel expenses any more. The engine might be able to better pull a heavy load more efficiently. But no matter what, if your diesel engine needs repairs, seek out a mechanic who is specifically trained in them.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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Things You Should Know Before Buying High End Cars

Things You Should Know Before Buying High End Cars

By Ron Haugen

Whenever you are driving a high end car, you are sure to want to get the best handling and performance possible. After all, if you did not want the best, you could have bought any car. This is why whenever you have chosen to purchase high end car, it is important that you choose to get a repair specialist. These specialists not only know which parts that they are supposed to use and where they are supposed to go. They have all of the right equipment to diagnose problems before they even happen. This will help you to stay on the road longer.

There are many different things that you will need to consider whenever you are looking to get the best help from these kinds of specialists. You will need to make sure that they are a certified mechanic. You will also need to make sure that they have the right kinds of equipment. It is also important that you only choose those which use genuine parts.

Choosing a Certified Mechanic

The first thing that you will need to look for whenever looking for a repair specialist is to make sure that they have a certification to work on high end cars. This is a certification which is offered to individuals which have proven that they have the ability to work on these kinds of cars and to restore them to a like-new state. They will have gone through training as well as having gone through a certification test to make sure that they know what they are doing.

Look for Certified Equipment

Even with the certification, there is no guarantee that the mechanic will be able to spot the problem. This is why these high end car companies have created a computer which will interface with your car. This will allow the mechanic to see problems inside of the engine and other parts of the car even without doing a physical inspection. Make sure that the repair specialist that you take your car to will have the kind of equipment which will allow them to recognize the problems that you are facing in your vehicle.

Look for Genuine Parts

Another very important thing to look for whenever choosing a repair specialist is that they will need to be able to supply you with all of the genuine parts that your vehicle will need. While there are a few kinds of parts which might fit your car, they are not made for the high end car. Only genuine parts will work the way that they are supposed to work so that you can get the performance that you deserve in your vehicle that you love so much.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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Why Choose a Specialist for Your Car

Why Choose a Specialist for Your Car

By Ron Haugen

There are many different things that you will consider whenever you are purchasing a new car. Among the different things that you will need is that you will need to be able to have the right kind of car. The car that you have will allow you to be able to get everything that you will need including performance and handling. It is the reason why so many people will choose to buy luxury cars. To make sure that you are able to continue to get the performance that you want to get out of this vehicle, it is important to take it to a specialist for repair.

It is important to understand why these kinds of specialists are different from the average mechanic. These specialists have been trained to work on your vehicle. They make sure to follow the guidelines for inspecting your vehicle. They also make sure that they are using the right parts whenever repairing your vehicle. This will help you to enjoy your vehicle more.

How Training Helps

One of the things that a repair specialist will go through is a specialized training just for these kinds of vehicles. They will learn about the different parts of the engine which make this vehicle in a class all on its own. They will learn not only the maintenance basics, but everything that they will need to make sure that they can maximize the performance in everything that you are looking to do with the vehicle that you purchase.

Get the Best Inspection

Whenever you take your vehicle in to get repaired, it will need to be inspected. This inspection will make sure that no problems are missed. Only a specialist will be able to know which parts they are supposed to inspect and what they are looking for whenever they inspect them. This will allow them to find problems before they even happen and to repair them. This will help in making sure that your vehicle runs like brand new for as long as you own your vehicle.

The Right Parts Make a Difference

Another thing which you will notice whenever you take your vehicle to a repair specialist is that you will be able to get the genåuine parts. Good mechanics will always use the right parts because only the right parts will make sure that your vehicle is always running its best. They will even know how to make sure that they are installed correctly so that they will be able to perform to their maximum potential. You will notice the difference in your vehicle as long as you maintain it through the use of these professionals.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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What Is Octane in Gasoline?

By Ron Haugen

Everyone has pulled up to the gas station with the intention of getting what is right for their car so that they can get the best performance. This is why so many people will opt to pay extra to get the premium gasoline even though they are not sure exactly why they are getting it. The normal thought process is that because it is more expensive, it is better. The only reason that one fuel is more expensive than another is because of the level of octane which is found in the gas. So, what is octane in gasoline and how does it help you?

The first thing that you will need to know is what octane actually is. You will also need to know how you can benefit from octane. Additionally, you should know when you are wasting your money buying a high-octane gasoline. This will help you to know that you are getting what is right for your car every time that you pull up to the gas station.

What is Octane?

Octane in the gasoline that you purchase is measures by the hydrocarbon mixture which is found within. This is achieved through further refining of the gasoline. The additional hydrocarbons in the gasoline will cause the fuel to burn slower which is beneficial for cars which run at a higher rate than those which run at a lower rate. It is designed to help in reducing the sound of knocks when performing at this higher level.

How You Can Benefit

The biggest benefit that you will be able to enjoy whenever you use high-octane gasoline is that you will enjoy fewer knocks and pings when running at higher levels. It is important to bear in mind that the further refining of the gasoline does not mean that it is better. It simply means that it is different and more expensive than the lower grade gasoline.

What You Should Buy

Not all cars will benefit from using a higher octane. This is because most cars are designed to operate with the use of gasoline with a grade of 87 (regular gas). Only those with high performance engines should use a higher octane of 91 or greater. Generally, if you notice an increase in gas mileage or performance whenever you are using a high-octane gas for a car made to use low-octane gas, it means that you are experiencing an engine problem that you are not yet aware of. Make sure that you are paying attention to your owner's manual before you purchase gasoline so that you can get the right stuff. This will keep your engine running correctly for a longer period of time.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidefordmercurydesmoines.com

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Why Wax Your Car?

Why Wax Your Car?

By Ron Haugen

Whenever you own a car, you are likely to take a lot of pride in the way that it looks. It is the reason why you are sure to keep it clean of all trash as well as making sure that you clean the outside and inside often. Of course, there are some who start to consider whether they actually need to wax their vehicle. This is still as important today as it was decades ago. It is important to take a look at exactly why it is important so that you will not be tempted to go without it.

There are a few different things that you will need to know about how waxing your cart helps. You should learn about water damage to the pain, sunlight protection as well as rust protection. This will help you to make the decision to purchase the right kind of wax and to make sure that you are giving your car everything it needs to stay looking new as long as possible.

Water Protection

The sign of a well waxed car is the fact that the water will bead up and slide right off of the car. This is important because it means that there is a layer of protection in between the water and the paint of the car. Even the best paints with clear coats can be affected by heavy rains. They will eventually fade and not have the luster and brilliance that they are supposed to have. You can get the protection you will need by simply applying wax.

Sunlight Protection

The sun is another natural enemy to the paint and finish on your vehicle. There are two ways that it can cause the paint to fade. Not having any protection will allow the different UV rays to penetrate through and bleach the paint. Additionally, when water pools on the vehicle, it can act like a magnifying glass. The concentrated light source will effectively burn the paint and cause it to lighten on some areas or darken in others. You will end up with spotty looking paint which will ruin the overall look of your vehicle.

Rust Protection

Another thing that your vehicle will be in danger of without the protection that wax can offer is that you will possibly get rust in your vehicle. This is not only possible because of the different kinds of ways that the water will be able to get under the paint. It is also possible because moisture from humidity or sea air can seep in. The layer of wax that you put on your vehicle will offer additional protection against the rust which can ruin your vehicle form the inside out.

If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsidetoyotadesmoines.com

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