school bus

Factors to Include on Your Annual School Bus Checklist

in Blog, Bus Repair, Uncategorizedby Chris

As the school year approaches in Winston Salem, you as the district’s fleet manager have the responsibility of inspecting and repairing all of the school buses. They must be in good working order on the first day of school.

You can make sure each bus is in the best condition possible by compiling an effective safety and mechanical checklist. You can also quickly and conveniently handle any damages to your buses by taking them to a skilled bus repair mechanic.

Testing the Brakes On A School Bus

The first to-do item that you can include on your bus repair checklist is to inspect the brakes. The brakes on the bus are critical to the safety of each student who rides on it. They must work correctly and reliably to prevent accidents and injuries.

To check the brakes, you should make sure the air pressure in them is at the maximum level. The pressure should remain constant even when the engine is switched off.

If the pressure decreases, this could indicate that there is an air leak in the brakes. A leak can also be indicated by a buzzing sound from the low-pressure indicator on the bus.

If you suspect that the brakes have an air leak, it is crucial that you take the school bus to a licensed bus repair mechanic. The mechanic can retest the brake lines and replace or repair them if necessary.

Check the School Bus Steering

The steering on each school bus should function freely from lock to lock on the steering wheel. You must ensure that the power steering reservoir is completely full before each bus is taken out on its route.

You also can check for stone damages and leaks that occur within the power steering pipes. The undercarriage should get a thorough inspection to detect any fluid leaks that occur there. The steering wheel itself should also be free from any cracks or breaks.

Power steering issues can be complex to repair on your own. Rather than take the chance of the steering not working on one of your buses, you can take it to an experienced bus mechanic to have it repaired quickly and effectively.

Windshield, Wiper Blades, and Mirrors Inspection

In addition to checking each school bus for mechanical issues, you also should inspect each one to ensure its outer components are working correctly. To start, you can examine the windshield for repair issues like cracks, chips, and breaks. The windshield should also be free of any clouding that can impede the view of the bus driver.

Additionally, you need to look at the mirrors on each side of the bus. The mirrors provide the driver with a clear view of any cars or pedestrians that are passing on either of the bus’s side. Like the windshield, the mirrors should be free of damages like dents, cracks, and holes that can block the driver’s view.

Finally, both windshield wipers ideally should be as operational as possible. However, the one on the driver’s side of the windshield has to work well enough to clear water and debris from the driver’s line of sight. If any of these components need to be repaired, you can rely on a trained bus repair mechanic to fix them for you.

Testing the Lights

Another exterior component that has to be tested before a bus can be taken out on its route is its lights. During your summertime review of your fleet’s buses, you should test lights like the:

  • Headlights
  • Front, rear, and park lamps
  • Tail and stop lamps
  • Hazard lights
  • Reverse lamps

If any of these lights fail to illuminate when tested or if they do not come on when you test the switches for them, they need to be replaced or repaired. A skilled bus mechanic can replace the bulbs, repair or replace switches, and fix the wiring within these fixtures on the outside of the bus.

These factors should be included on your annual school bus mechanical checklist. These tasks ensure that all of the most important parts of your buses are working correctly. You can have vital repairs done quickly and easily by taking your buses to a licensed bus repair mechanic.

source: https://www.trackschoolbus.com/blog/road-safety-checklist-for-school-buses/

maintenance bus repair

Preventative Maintenance Keep Your Buses in Good Working Order

in Blog, Bus Repair, Maintenance, Uncategorizedby Chris

The closing of the school year does not mean you can take a break as the district’s fleet manager. In fact, the summertime maybe your busiest season with getting the school buses back in working order for next year. You can make sure every bus in your fleet is ready for the first day of school by entrusting these preventative maintenance and repair tasks to a skilled bus mechanic.

Tire Rotation and Replacement

The buses in your fleet rack up thousands of miles each school year. All of this travel takes its toll on the buses’ tires, however. By May or June, their tread may be wearing thin.

You cannot send out the buses next year with tires that are worn out and ready to blow. Instead, you may need to have several if not all of the tires on the buses changed out with brand new ones.

A skilled bus repair mechanic can inspect each tire closely for wear and tear. If possible, better tires can be rotated to help them wear better. If needed, the worn-out tires can be taken off and replaced immediately.

Having brand new tires on your buses for the school year can give you the peace of mind you need as a fleet manager. You also avoid having to do this extensive work yourself by taking your buses to an experienced bus mechanic for servicing.

Brake Pad and Shoe Inspection and Replacement

The brakes on your buses also take a beating during the school year. Buses often make repeated stops and starts during the course of a regular route. All of this stopping and going inevitably will take its toll on the brake pads and shoes.

When you hear squealing and grinding as the bus comes to a halt, you know it is time to have the brake pads and possibly the shoes replaced. The bus mechanic can inspect both parts on all of the tires for wearing and thinning. If the pad or shoe is beyond repair, the mechanic can replace either with a brand new part guaranteed to last for hundreds of miles.

You cannot risk the safety of your buses by sending them out with worn-out brake pads and shoes. A thorough bus mechanic can quickly replace them to ensure they are safe on which to drive this school year.

Battery Check

As the fleet manager, you also are responsible for making sure each bus in your fleet has a good battery under its hood. Depending on the bus’s age, its battery may be close to dying. Most bus batteries are only designed to last for five to six years.

You cannot afford to have a single bus not working during the busy school year. You need each bus to be out on its route every day.

By taking your buses to a mechanic who can check each battery, you can ensure that nearly dead ones are replaced. You can also find out how much life is left in the ones that are checked and left in place.

Radiator Flushes

A good bus mechanic can also flush out the radiator on your fleet buses. If the radiator is not flushed out on a regular basis, you can face challenges ranging from overheating to stalling. These mechanical headaches can take a bus out of rotation leaving you shorthanded in picking up and dropping off students.

Rather than handle this complex task on your own, you can hand it off to someone who is trained and certified in bus maintenance and repairs. The bus mechanic can flush out all of the radiators in your fleet buses. Along with making sure they are in good working order, we’ll do this by the start of the school year.

Windows and Doors Repairs

The windows and doors on your buses can take a beating during the school year. The constant opening and closing of these fixtures can wear out springs and levers, rendering them unsafe and useless.

We will prioritize checking these fixtures out and making all necessary repairs to them. They will be ready to use for another school year by the end of summer.

sports cars mechanics

Five Used Sports Cars That Are Reliable and Affordable to Maintain

in Blog, Car Tips, Uncategorizedby Chris

 

Often times, sports cars tend to be a bit more expensive to upkeep. However, that’s not always the case. Here are five used sports cars that have a history of being reliable and affordable to maintain.

2010-2015 Dodge Challenger R/T
If you need more space to stretch out, the Dodge Challenger R/T will prove to be a great option. Even tall folks can easily fit behind the wheel. Most importantly, its Hemi V8 engine is powerful and durable. With more than 370 horsepower resting under the hood, this American muscle car is definitely potent enough to put a grin on your face. Try to find a well-kept Challenger R/T with less than 100,000 miles on the odometer. You shouldn’t have to worry about experiencing any major mechanical failures.

1995-2004 Ford Mustang GT
The legendary Ford Mustang GT has always delivered a strong performance. Drivers who don’t want to spend a lot of money on repairs should look for a 1996-2004 Ford Mustang GT. It comes equipped with Ford’s bulletproof 4.6-liter, V8 engine. When serviced regularly, this engine can easily surpass 250,000 miles with no issues. A beautiful exhaust note adds to the excitement. Although an automatic transmission is available, you’ll find the manual gearbox to be far more entertaining.

2015-2018 Lexus RC
Lexus has a reputation for building dependable vehicles. The RC coupe is no exception. It’s a great alternative to a European sports car. You can get one with either a V6 or V8 engine. While the V6-powered Lexus RC will save you more money on gas, the high-revving V8 engine really cranks up the performance. All of this car’s major components are built to withstand the test of time.

2009-2015 Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z has a racing pedigree that very few cars can match. Fortunately, it is also known for being a trouble-free performance machine. Replacement parts are also quite affordable. Power comes from a tried-and-true 3.7-liter, DOHC V6 engine. While the 370Z is quick enough for you to have some fun, it’s not dangerously fast. Expect to hit 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds. That’s just enough kicks for first-time sports car owners.

2002-2006 Acura RSX Type-S
Drivers will have a hard time finding a more dependable sports car than the Acura RSX Type-S. It’s a testament to Acura’s commitment to building long-lasting vehicles. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll be able to afford to own an Acura RSX Type-S. Parts, such as brake pads and spark plugs, are very easy on the wallet. Strong fuel economy is yet another plus. Don’t hesitate to make this exciting ride your daily-driver. Motivating the RSX Type-S is an invigorating VTEC four-cylinder engine, which was developed by Honda. Output stands at a healthy 201 horsepower.

toyota prius

The Toyota Prius

in Blog, Hybridsby Chris

 

The 2018 Toyota Prius stands out as a vehicle that sets the quality and aesthetics standard for the entire hybrid car industry. As much of a showpiece at it is, consumers would expect it to be relatively free from mechanical issues.

However, since its release onto the market, it has become known for being prone to inconvenient and sometimes expensive malfunctions. If you are an owner of a 2018 Toyota Prius, you should have it serviced by a licensed and skilled mechanic if it experiences any of these documented issues.

Excessive Oil Consumption

Excessive oil consumption is one of the foremost complaints that Prius owners have about their vehicles. Consumers have reported having challenges with keeping their oil reservoirs full. The excessive use of oil has also led to engine overheating. If you are constantly having to fill your Toyota Prius with oil, you should have it inspected excessive oil consumption and repaired if necessary.

Incorrect Fuel Gauge Reading

Another common malfunction with the 2018 Toyota Prius involves incorrect readings with the fuel gauge. Owners report that their fuel gauges do not accurately reflect how much gas is actually in their cars’ tanks. Even after filling up, the gauge may read empty or less than full. If your gauge is giving you inaccurate readings, then testing and repairing by a mechanic is your best bet.

Hard Start or Failure to Start After Sitting for Several Days

A number of Prius owners report their cars being difficult or impossible to start after sitting idle for several days. Some cars, if not driven every day, have difficulties starting or refuse to start at all. When your own Prius refuses to start or experiences a hard start after sitting for several days in your garage. This may be a sign that it’s time to have it inspected and repaired by your local Prius mechanic.

Check Engine Light because of a Failed Three-way Coolant Control Valve

Like most modern cars, the Prius has a check engine light that illuminates to alert you to a possible malfunction in the engine. While in some cases you can resolve the check engine light by changing the spark plugs or replacing or tightening the gas cap, the light may stay on if it is caused by a failed three-way coolant control valve in your Prius.

In fact, this issue is relatively common with newer Priuses. When your check engine light will not go off even after checking your gas cap, spark plugs, and other parts in the engine, you may need your Prius mechanic to examine and repair its three-way coolant control valve.

Stalling or Loss of Control

The 2018 Prius has been reported to be prone to stalling or suffering from a loss of power. People report driving their Priuses when all of a sudden the vehicle stalls or loses control while in drive.

The mass airflow sensor is the root cause of the problem. Having the sensor replaced can restore the power to the engine and prevent dangerous stalling. In many cases, this can help prevent a loss of control of the car while you are driving. Your mechanic can inspect the mass airflow sensor in your Prius and replace it if he or she suspects it off causing you to lose control or experience stalling while driving your car.

Premature Failure of the Hybrid Transmission

Another common and expensive malfunction with the 2018 Prius is the premature failure of the hybrid transmission. The hybrid transmission on the 2018 Prius is guaranteed for three years or 36,000 miles. It is also covered under the manufacturer’s five year, 60,000-mile warranty.

If the transmission in your Prius malfunctions before the end of your warranty, you may have it repaired or replaced. This will be at little to no cost to you. You can take it to your local mechanic to determine if it is still under warranty.

These common issues with the 2018 Toyota Prius are a few of those that have been reported and documented by verified owners. You may have them addressed quickly, and affordably by allowing your local hybrid car mechanic to repair your Toyota Prius for you.

Source:
https://repairpal.com/problems/toyota/prius

hybrid car engine

Your Hybrid Car Needs a Specialized Mechanic

in Blog, Hybrids, Uncategorizedby Chris

Why Your Hybrid Car Needs a Specialized Mechanic

Hybrid vehicles are no longer the future. These vehicles are on the road now and their popularity is only increasing as time goes on. Unfortunately, some mechanics have an aversion to working on these vehicles. The maintenance and repairs involved in a hybrid or electric car are different than those of a standard automobile, so drivers need to be prepared to find the right people for the job.

What Makes a Hybrid Car Different?

When you turn off the ignition in an internal combustion engine vehicle (non-hybrid), the vehicle is effectively off. The battery still has a connection, but the vehicle’s engine is not going to power up mid-service. You’ll need to unhook the battery to work on it or the related systems. Beyond that, there is no real danger in the power/electrical operation of the vehicle.

A hybrid vehicle has a motive battery that is much more powerful than a standard car battery. It’s also designed to kick on by itself as needed during vehicle operation. For mechanics, this can all become very dangerous. Here are a couple of the biggest issues:

Once you take the key out from the ignition, a hybrid car’s engine may still engage with the use of the battery. If a mechanic does not know to disconnect all power and batteries before starting to work on the car, they may cause damage to the vehicle.

-Hybrid cars have high-voltage electrical systems and often require the use of heavy, thick insulated gloves for a safe repair. The risk of electrical shock is high when working on these vehicles, which is why a trained professional is a must.

The Maintenance on a Hybrid Car is Usually the Same

Typically speaking, there is no special maintenance required for a hybrid vehicle. Most manufacturers recommend that hybrid drivers stick to dealership service since there is not yet any independent training available for specific hybrid makes and models. However, dealership service is not your only option. ASE-certified mechanics can still perform most routine maintenance and repair services on these vehicles. The biggest exceptions will be the drive train, electrical system, and brake system, which require more advanced training.

So What Do I Do?

Your best option, since training on hybrid models, is still limited, is to rely on an independent shop that has experience in working with these unique vehicles. Feel free to ask questions about the mechanic’s experience with hybrid cars and what type of certification the shop has in regard to all vehicle repairs.

Remember that there is no certification or licensing available specifically for hybrid maintenance and repair. If a shop claims to have such licensing, you should know they aren’t being entirely honest with you. ASE-Certified mechanics are important for any repair, but this is just a general certification that all independent shops should carry. Also, as with any repairs, make sure that a shop guarantees all of the work it performs on your hybrid.

It’s our goal to be the very best at what we do. At Cloverdale Auto Service we are committed to taking care of our customers in the same manner we care for our families and friends. That means providing you with the highest quality of service that will ensure safe and reliable transportation.

OUR SERVICE COMMITMENT:

Our commitment to you is to provide timely and consistent automotive services with integrity, quality, and value. We ensure that each and every client experiences the highest standard of customer assistance and satisfaction. Our experienced staff of highly skilled technicians and customer service representatives provides professional service in a relaxed, clean and friendly environment. We feel comfortable saying that once you try our service you won’t go anywhere else. (If you feel like your mechanic is practicing at your expense or you’re not quite sure that you trust them, it’s time to see us!)

Honda issues

Common Honda Issues

in Uncategorized, Maintenanceby Chris

Honda Odysseys consistently top the National Transportation Safety Board’s list for the safest cars in the country. You can keep your own Honda Odyssey on the road by knowing what these issues are. Lastly, you can keep your car on the road by knowing how you can get them repaired quickly.

Problems with the Exterior Lighting

One of the most common issues reported with all years of the Honda Odyssey involves those with the van’s exterior lighting. In particular, many owners report that their vans’ corner and bumper lamps fail to illuminate correctly. When they are driving their vans, owners say the lamps do not provide sufficient lighting to see the road ahead of them.

The poor lighting from the corner and bumper lamps put owners of Honda Odysseys at an increased risk of being in a car accident at nighttime. If you notice your Odyssey failing to put out enough light, you’ll need to take it to an experienced Odyssey repair technician. They may be able to replace either the bulbs or fuses in the lamps.

Frozen Windshield Wiper and Washer Rods

Another commonly reported with Odysseys involves the freezing of the windshield wiper and washer rods. The front windshield wiper blades on the van can become frozen to the windshield. When this happens, the linkage rods can easily become bent or separated from the motor.

If this occurs, drivers of Odysseys cannot clear their windshields during rain or snow. If driving at night or in poor conditions, your risk of being in an accident is higher. Have the windshield wiper and washer rods on your Odyssey have become frozen or damaged? Have an experienced mechanic replace the front wiper rod immediately.

Middle and Rear Outboard Seating Displacement

Problems in the 2011 and newer Honda Odysseys have been reported with the vans’ middle and rear outboard seating. The seats can become displaced when they are being maneuvered into one of the two available positions for them. If they become displaced, people in them could become injured when the driver of the van brakes suddenly.

To repair displaced outboard seating in the middle or rear rows of the van, you will need to have a Honda Odyssey repair technician put in a new bracket. The bracket will prevent the seats from sliding out of position and also hold them in place securely when the driver applies the brakes.

Dangers with the Front Underhood Electrical Wiring

Some of the newer models of the Honda Odyssey have problems with the electrical wiring under the front underhood. The wire harness that is located in the engine compartment could be severely damaged if it comes into contact with metal pipes. This contact could result in a fuse being blown in the compartment.

Once a fuse is blown, the power to the engine or any system that relies on electrical power could be lost. This includes the power to the lights, horn, windshield wipers, and antilock brakes. Depending on the system that loses power, the driver of the van may not be able to control the car and could be involved in a serious accident.

Fixing this issue involves putting a protective covering over the wire harness and metal pipe in the underhood. Repairs of faulty wires in this part of the engine are important to check off the list. You can have these repairs made by a licensed Odyssey mechanic.

Failure of the Ignition Switch

There are reports of problems with the engine’s ignition switch in models as recent as 2018. The electrical contacts in the ignition switch become faulty because of high electrical currents passing through them when the vehicle starts.

If this damage occurs, the engine in the van could stall unexpectedly. In worst-case scenarios, it could lead to a serious car accident.

An experienced mechanic will know how to replace the faulty ignition switch in your Honda Odyssey. You should make this repair immediately to avoid the risk of being in an accident.

These issues are common by drivers of Honda Odyssey vans. Take your Odyssey into a mechanic who will help you with your auto repairs. Lastly, Cloverdale Auto Service is the Best in Winston Salem, NC.

car

Tips to Keep Your Car Running at Its Best

in Blog, Car Tips, Uncategorizedby Chris

If you want to keep your car running like new for as long as possible, you are likely wondering what steps you should take to reach your goal. Having a few things in mind and keeping up with standard maintenance can do wonders for any car, and you will be pleased with the outcome. You can avoid many costly repair fees and let your car consume as little fuel as possible, saving you money in transportation costs. A well-maintained car will run properly and be there for you when you need it the most, and this guide shows you where to begin.

Change the Oil

An adequate supply of clean oil is important for the smooth operation of your vehicle. Oil allows the parts of your engine to work together and do their job without stress that could cause damage. Your engine will keep you moving as long as you don’t forget to change your oil on a regular basis. Engines with low or dirty oil encounter friction that can damage vital components before long, a mistake nobody would want to make. In most cases, you can do well by changing your oil every 3,000 miles under normal driving conditions.

Check Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid lets your engines switch gears so that you can have the power you need to drive down the road. Of all the things that could go wrong with a car, the transmission is one of the most expensive. Make sure your transmission is in top shape unless you want to shell out the cash for the repairs. One of the most important things you can do is keeping your transmission fluid level where it should be. If you don’t know how to check the transmission fluid, ask the staff to do it the next time you change your oil.

Suspension System

Making up your suspension system, your struts, springs, shocks and tires are critical for keeping your car on the road and you in control. If your suspension system runs into problems along the way and you fail to address it, you could find yourself facing other issues.

For example, those who don’t fix suspension problems could notice uneven tire wear, which could cause the tire to go flat or burst. Look in your owner’s manual to see how often you should replace your suspension if you don’t want to end up in a bad position, and you will save yourself a lot of money over the long run.

Final Thoughts

Getting the most from your car is not hard but requires you to keep up with routine maintenance. Putting in a little effort can take you far when your mission is to keep your car on the road for years to come. Even if you don’t plan to keep the same car forever, taking care of it now improves the resell value in the future.

Changing the oil on time and keeping up with other issues is a smart move you don’t want to overlook if you care about the performance of your car. The tips you have learned empower you to reduce the odds of breakdowns and other problems.

Cloverdale Auto Service is the Best in Winston Salem, NC when it comes to Auto Repair.

 

OUR SERVICE COMMITMENT:

Our commitment to you is to provide timely and consistent automotive services with integrity, quality, and value. We ensure that each and every client experiences the highest standard of customer assistance and satisfaction. Our experienced staff of highly skilled technicians and customer service representatives provides professional service in a relaxed, clean and friendly environment. We feel comfortable saying that once you try our service you won’t go anywhere else. (If you feel like your mechanic is practicing at your expense or you’re not quite sure that you trust them, it’s time to see us!)

Gas Efficient

More Money in Your Pocket by Reducing Gas Consumption

in Blog, Car Tips, Uncategorizedby Chris

With the cost of living on the rise, most of us are looking for creative ways to cut spending and save money. You can reach that goal by keeping a few tips in mind to save money on fuel each week, and you will smile when you notice the difference. The way you drive and treat your car impacts the amount of gas you use, so making a few small changes can do wonders to keep even more money in your pocket. Some people overlook these tips because they can only save a dollar or two, but each dollar you save adds up over time.

Go Easy on the Gas

If you are like many other people, you have a busy life that does not give you a lot of time to relax and unwind, so you want to get to your destination as quickly as you can. You step on the gas and push your car to give you a fast acceleration without thinking about it. The problem, though, is that putting the pedal to the floor uses much more gas than a gentle acceleration. Accelerating slowly gives your car time to change gears before hitting high speeds, and your wallet will thank you.

Go Easy on the Breaks

Many people wait until the last minute to put on the breaks at stop signs and traffic lights. If you do the same thing, you should know that you are using much more fuel than you need. Keeping your car at full speed as you approach a stop sign is a waste of forwarding energy since you will be stopping anyway. While it might not seem like much, if you waste several hundred feet of movement each time you stop, the costs can rise faster than you suspect. Ease off the gas and come to a slow, gentle stop.

Change Your Air Filter

Your engine needs plenty of fresh air to run well and keep you on the road, and it can’t suck up dirt and other contaminants. Your air filter removes impurities from the air before they have time to enter your engine, but air filters get clogged over time. A dirty air filter restricts airflow and makes it much harder for your engine to do its job. You will then pay much more in gas than you need. With that in mind, a new air filter is one of the top investments you can make as far as fuel economy is concerned.

Final Thoughts

Too many people waste more gas than they know because they are not aware of the tips you have just learned. If you don’t want to overpay at the pump, taking care of your car and paying attention to the way you drive lets you reach your goal without much effort. Some people are stunned to see how much fuel they can save over a month or two, and you will likely feel the same way if you have never used these fuel-saving tips.

OUR SERVICE COMMITMENT:

Our commitment to you is to provide timely and consistent automotive services with integrity, quality, and value. We ensure that each and every client experiences the highest standard of customer assistance and satisfaction. Our experienced staff of highly skilled technicians and customer service representatives provides professional service in a relaxed, clean and friendly environment. We feel comfortable saying that once you try our service you won’t go anywhere else. (If you feel like your mechanic is practicing at your expense or you’re not quite sure that you trust them, it’s time to see us!)

oil change

Signs Your Vehicle Need An Oil Change

in Maintenance, Uncategorizedby Chris

It is important to have your oil changed on a regular basis. Regular oil changes will keep your car functioning at its peak. They will also help you improve your gas mileage. Many people wait too long to get it changed because they do not recognize the signs. There are a number of things that indicate it is time for an oil change.

Dirty and Dark Oil

If oil is clean, then it will have an amber color. Oil has a tendency to darken when it gets dirty. The only way that you will know that the color has started to change is by checking the oil every month. If the oil is dark and thick, then it is time for you to get it changed.

Engine Noise

Oil helps lubricate the engine parts. This allows them to move without any friction. Oil loses the ability to lubricate the parts over time. That is why you will start to notice the rattling, rumbling or knocking if it is time for you to get it changed.

The Check Engine Light is On

If your oil is low, then you will notice that the oil change light is on. You should check the oil as soon as you notice the oil change light turns on. If your check engine light is on, then this could be another sign that it is time to get your oil changed. It may also be an indication that the engine is damaged.

Exhaust Smoke

It is normal for some smoke to come out of the tailgate. You may notice this when the weather is cold. However, if you notice a lot of smoke coming out of the exhaust, then it is time for you to get an oil change. This could also indicate that your oil is leaking.

There is an Oil Smell

If you smell oil, then you will likely need to get an oil change. You may also notice the smell of exhaust or gas. Additionally, you may notice an oil smell if the vehicle is overheating. This is dangerous. A fire can result if your engine overheats. That is why it is important to get an oil change as soon as possible if you notice a smell.

Rough Idle

Your car may rattle and vibrate when you are stopped at a red light if your oil needs to be changed. If the oil is dirty, then it will not be able to lubricate the parts properly. The engine will rumble as a result of this.

Sluggish Acceleration

Your car will not be able to accelerate properly if the oil is dirty. If your car does not have as much power as it used to, then it is likely time for you to get an oil changed.

Ticking Sounds When the Car Starts

When you turn on your car, the engine will start circulating oil. If the oil is too thick, then this will take longer than it has to. That is why you may notice a ticking sound. This noise occurs because the valves are trying to move the oil.

Excessive Mileage

You may not notice any of the aforementioned signs. However, it may still be time for an oil change. Mechanics generally recommend that people get their oil changed every three months or every 3,000 miles. If you have a new vehicle, then you may be able to wait until you have driven 6,000 miles or every six months.

It is important to note that these recommendations are general guidelines. That is why it is a good idea to check your owner’s manual before you get an oil change. The owner’s manual will also be able to tell you about other maintenance that you will need to get for your car.

Not only will an oil change keep your vehicle running at its peak but it will also prevent your car from breaking down. An oil change can help you save a lot of money in the long run. It is important for you to discuss the needs of your vehicle when you come in for an oil change. Your technician will also be able to tell you about how often you need to get an oil change.

Mercedes-Benz

Common Mercedes-Benz Mechanical Issues

in Mercedes-Benz, Uncategorizedby Chris

Mercedes-Benz is a brand that is synonymous with luxury and quality. Even so, cars made by this company can sometimes fall victim to common mechanical issues. You can keep your Mercedes in great running condition by knowing what challenges to watch out for while you are driving it.

Engine Not Starting

One of the most common problems that all models of Mercedes cars have is not starting. The engine will crank, but the car will not start as expected.

This problem is caused when the crankshaft piston starter fails to send a TDC or Top Dead Center signal to the car’s engine. Without that signal, the engine does not fire even though it cranks. The sensor failure also leads to prolonged cranking times when you are trying to start your vehicle.

You can remedy this common issue by having your Mercedes crankshaft piston starter inspected and repaired as needed. We have the experience and skills required to fix all classes of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Failing to Shift from Park

Another problem that is common in the E and S-class Mercedes-Benz vehicles is the gear shift failing to shift from park. Your car’s engine may start and run like normal. However, you cannot shift the gears from park to reverse or drive.

This problem arises whenever the selector module fails. If you begin to experience troubles shifting from park into other gear positions, you should bring your Mercedes-Benz to a licensed and skilled mechanic. The mechanic can inspect and fix the selector module so your gears do not get stuck in the park position.

Ignition Misfires

Mercedes cars can often be plagued by ignition misfires. This is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately to avoid prolonged damage. Whenever your ignition misfires, your car is telling you that there is something seriously wrong with the engine.

You can minimize the likelihood of ignition misfires by changing your ignition coils and spark plugs every 100,000 miles. You can also avoid this issue by having your Mercedes-Benz serviced by our experienced and trained Mercedes-Benz mechanics.

Slipping of the Engine and Transmission Mounts

The engine and transmission mounts in the typical Mercedes-Benz are made out of sturdy solid rubber. This material ensures the engine and transmission remain stable while you are driving the car. It also prevents vibrations from being felt in the passenger area of the car.

When you feel your car kick or jolt whenever you step on the gas, you could take this as a sign that your mounts are slipping or falling. You can prevent this problem by having the mounts diagnosed and replaced every seven years or 80,000 miles. Our Mercedes-Benz mechanics can replace damaged or aging mounts quickly for you.

These common mechanical issues can compromise your ability to drive your Mercedes-Benz safely. You can prevent them by having your car inspected and serviced on a regular basis. You should entrust the inspection, servicing, and repairs of your Mercedes-Benz to mechanics who are trained to work on this brand of vehicles.

 

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Our commitment to you is to provide timely and consistent automotive services with integrity, quality, and value. We ensure that each and every client experiences the highest standard of customer assistance and satisfaction. Our experienced staff of highly skilled technicians and customer service representatives provides professional service in a relaxed, clean and friendly environment. We feel comfortable saying that once you try our service you won’t go anywhere else. (If you feel like your mechanic is practicing at your expense or you’re not quite sure that you trust them, it’s time to see us!)