Preventing School Bus Brake Mishaps with Regular Inspection, Maintenance, and Repairs

September 17, 2018October 29, 2024 in Bus Repair, Uncategorizedby Chris

The brakes on school buses withstand an unprecedented amount of wear and tear each year. These vehicles make repeated stops during their regular routes. They also encounter road conditions that are not conducive to maintaining good brakes.

Are the school buses in your fleet suffer repeated problems with their brakes? It may be time for you to have them serviced by a licensed and trained school bus mechanic. With our professional bus services, you can keep your buses on the road and avoid the biggest mishaps with brakes.

Crumbling Brake Pads

One of the most common problems that school buses encounter while on the road is crumbling brake pads. Brake pads often crumble after they are exposed to de-icing agents used to thaw and treat snowy and icy roads. De-icers like magnesium chloride and calcium chloride eat away at the brake pads until they crumble and wear away completely.

When school buses regularly travel over roads that are treated with these chemicals, it is important to keep an eye on the condition of their brake pads. If you see signs of crumbling, it is crucial for the sake of safety that you have a skilled school bus mechanic replace them immediately.

Uneven Brake Pad Wear

Another common issue with school bus brakes involves unequal or uneven wear and tear. This problem is often caused by calipers hanging up or pin sliders seizing. When it occurs, you lose the performance you need out of your school bus brakes.

However, this issue can be a relatively easy fix as long as you act quickly and get your school bus towed to one of our licensed and ready school bus mechanics. We can replace or repair the calipers or pin sliders and also change out brake pads that have uneven wear and tear on them.

Out-of-adjustment Brakes

When the brakes on your school buses are out of adjustment, they need to be serviced quickly. This problem is often caused by issues like slacks, broken brake components, problems with the actuators, or problems with the drums or hubs. Detecting these causes can be difficult unless you are trained to work on school bus brakes and know where to look to identify the underlying issues.

Our mechanics are trained to handle these problems with out-of-adjustment brakes. They can get them adjusted and replaced if necessary so you can get your school buses back on the road quickly.

Other Common School Bus Brake Issues

School buses can suffer from a variety of other brake issues that include:

Cracked or bent brake chambers or camshaft support brackets
Hoses with kinks, chafing, and cracks
Camshaft heads with flat or worn spots
Bearing journals with rust, pitted surfaces, and excessive wear
Automatic brake adjusters that are not working properly

Preventing these and other school bus brake issues can be as simple as bringing your school buses to us to inspect, maintain, and repair. Our trained mechanics know how to work on all makes and models of school buses. While your buses are here, our mechanics can:

Inspect the condition of the brake lining
Examine the rotor plate thickness
Check the brake hose flexibility
Check and refill brake fluid
Replace camshaft bushings and brake shoes
Install new brake drums
Perform air dryer maintenance at least once a year

These services are crucial to keeping your school buses in safe driving condition. They also help the brakes last longer and avoid some of the more common issues that can cause brakes to wear down and need to be replaced sooner.

The brakes on your school buses can undergo unheard of stress during a regular school year. Depending on the road conditions these vehicles face, they could need their brakes serviced, maintained, and replaced on a frequent basis.

If you want to get the most out of your brakes, it is critical that you entrust their upkeep and repair to mechanics who are trained and licensed to work on school buses. Our school bus brake services are designed to keep your buses as safe as possible throughout the school year.

Common Reasons for the Audi Check Engine Light to Illuminate

August 21, 2018October 29, 2024 in Uncategorized, Car Tipsby Chris

The check engine light is the bane of new car drivers everywhere. However, when you own an Audi, you may wonder specifically why this light has illuminated and what it is trying to tell you. You can take the best care of your Audi by learning about the most common reasons for why the check engine light comes on in these vehicles and what you should do about it as the car’s owner.

Loose Gas Cap

One of the most common reasons that an Audi check engine light would come on is simply because the gas cap is loose. If your car does not give you a warning signal of a LOOSE GAS CAP or GAS CAP, it might instead illuminate the check engine light.

When the cause of the light stems from the gas cap being loose, your car most likely will not exhibit any outward symptoms of malfunction like engine misfiring or engine stalling. Still, you should verify that the gas cap is loose and if necessary replace it with one that is specifically designed for your Audi make and model.

Oxygen Sensors

Another common reason for the Audi check engine light to come on involves faulty oxygen sensors. When the oxygen sensors in your car’s engine malfunction, they can trigger the check engine light to illuminate.

In this instance, it can be easy to assume that the light is on because of a loose gas cap. However, you should take your car into a skilled mechanic’s shop and have the codes read for why the Audi check engine light has come on suddenly. If it indicates that the oxygen sensors need to be replaced, you should allow an experienced mechanic to make the repairs for you rather than attempt it yourself.

Ignition Coils or Coil packs

When the ignition coils or coil packs in your engine malfunction, they will trigger the Audi check engine light to illumine. This malfunction will often be accompanied by notable symptoms like the engine shaking or misfiring. These symptoms should alert you to immediately stop driving the car and have it taken to an experienced mechanic’s shop.

Replacing or repairing the ignition coils or coil packs requires intricate knowledge of the Audi engine.

Catalytic Converter

Finally, a faulty catalytic converter can trigger the Audi check engine to come on suddenly and without warning. As with malfunctioning ignition coils or coil packs, a bad catalytic converter can be accompanied by symptoms like shaking or misfiring. You should take these symptoms as hints to stop driving your car and have it serviced immediately.

Repairing a catalytic converter in an Audi can be a complex job. It is crucial that you allow an experienced Audi mechanic to make this repair for you rather than attempt it on your own.

Check Engine Light

These issues are some of the most common for why the check engine light may come on while you are driving your Audi. Many times, the light will illuminate even if your car does not exhibit any symptoms.

Because your car seems to be driving fine, it can be tempting to ignore the light and assume that it will go off on its own. It is true that if the cause stems from a faulty gas cap, the light will reset itself and go off two to three days after you tighten or replace the cap. Otherwise, the light will remain illuminated until you have the codes read on your Audi and you figure out why the light came on in the first place.

Regardless of why your Audi check engine light came on in your , it is crucial that you do not ignore it. You also should resist driving your car for a prolonged period of time even if it does not exhibit any symptoms. You should allow a skilled mechanic to read the codes on the engine and make the recommended repairs immediately.

More about the Check Engine Light

If the Audi check engine light comes on or starts flashing while your car exhibits symptoms like engine misfiring or shaking, it is critical that you stop driving it immediately and instead have it towed rather than driven to a mechanic’s shop. A flashing check engine light indicates that something is seriously wrong with your engine. You should never drive your Audi while the check engine light is flashing.

The Audi check engine light tells you that something is amiss with your vehicle. You may be tempted to ignore it. However, you should have the engine codes read and the car repaired by a mechanic who is experienced in working on all types of Audi makes and models.

Five Facts You Did Not Know About Mercedes-Benz

July 14, 2018October 29, 2024 in Mercedes-Benz, Uncategorizedby Chris

Founded in 1886, Mercedes-Benz is a brand that is associated with the utmost in automobile luxury and class. The company’s founder, Karl Benz, received the financing to start this now renowned international car company from his wife Bertha. The brand has flourished into one of the most recognizable in the global auto industry.

As storied as Mercedes-Benz is, it still possesses secrets and little-known facts that amaze people who are fans of the company and its automobiles. You may become more of a fan yourself by learning about five facts you did not know about Mercedes-Benz.

Stringent Inspections

One of the most well-kept secrets of Mercedes-Benz is the fact that the company hires a slew of inspectors to closely scrutinize every detail of every car that it makes. In fact, there is one inspector for every 11 production workers in every Mercedes-Benz factory around the world.

The inspector assigned to the 11 workers under his or her stead is paid to look closely for any sign of defects or damages before the car comes off the production line. By the time each car is finished and ready to be shipped out to a dealership, it will have undergone literally thousands of inspections to guarantee its quality and luxury.

The Use of Welding

Another relatively unknown fact about Mercedes-Benz vehicles is that the company uses only welding rather than bolts in the creation of its cars. Each car will have been welded in over 10,000 different places before it reaches the end of the production line.

The avoidance of using bolts spares this brand’s vehicles from disrepair and deterioration due to bolts coming loose as found in other brands’ vehicles. Welding also helps the vehicles avoid signs of aging like squeaking, rattling, and groaning that can come with the use of bolts.

Hand Grinding

After a Mercedes-Benz vehicle is welded in over 10,000 different places on its body, it then undergoes extensive grinding by hand. Vital seams located on and inside of the vehicle are ground by hand and then repeatedly packed with pewter.

After the seams are packed with pewter, they are again ground down by hand until they are no longer distinguishable. This hand-grinding guarantees a high level of workmanship and close attention to detail.

The Three-point Logo

Mercedes-Benz’s three-point logo is well-known around the world. People associate the three-point logo with this brand as well as the luxury, class, and price found with the vehicles made by the company.

The three points of the logo stand for land, water, and air. In 1909, however, company leaders registered a four-point logo for Mercedes-Benz with the fourth point standing for space. In fact, these cars actually created a spaceship, albeit it one that did not work and could not fly.

Nonetheless, the four-point logo was vetoed in favor of the three-point one that is so well-known today. The four-point logo did make an appearance in the comedy movie Spaceballs, however. It was mounted on the hood of the spaceship used by that movie’s Princess Leah. The spaceship in the movie was a Mercedes-Benz SEL limited-edition vehicle.

Pope mobiles

Finally, Mercedes-Benz garners worldwide attention for having made numerous vehicles for the pope and the Holy See. These vehicles, which are now dubbed Pope mobiles, are used exclusively by the pope and owned by the Holy See itself.

The first Pope mobile that car was made was a Nurburg 460, which was accepted and used by Pope Pius XI in 1930. The company also made a Mercedes-Benz 230G in 1980 for the pope. This vehicle became instantly recognizable for its transparent carriage in which the pope sits as he is driven among the crowds who come to see him.

The most recent Pope mobile made by Mercedes-Benz was an ML 430 with special bodywork. This vehicle was crafted especially for Pope John Paul II for World Youth Day. It featured a V8 engine with a displacement of 4.3 liters and had an output of 272 horsepower.

These five little known facts about Mercedes Benz solidify its reputation as a maker of high-class luxury vehicles. The brand continues to enjoy a favorable impression with car fans around the world.

Sources:

https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/mercedes_benz_25_revealing_facts
https://www.msn.com/en-in/autos/photos/20-surprising-facts-about-mercedes-benz/ss-AApTY0Q#image=19
http://media.daimler.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko/2002–Mercedes-Benz-ML-430-with-special-bodywork.xhtml?oid=9361438

Lastly, we look forward to servicing your vehicle here at Cloverdale Auto Services. We are located at 1418 South Stratford Road Suite C Winston-Salem NC 27103.

Common Mechanical Issues in School Buses

June 20, 2018October 29, 2024 in Bus Repair, Uncategorizedby Chris

The children in your school district count on you to take them to and from school each day. However, fulfilling this obligation can be a challenge if your school buses continuously face mechanical issues. You can prepare for an uneventful school year now by knowing what common problems school buses tend to suffer from and how they can be addressed quickly.

Mechanical Issues: Brake Issues

With all of the stops that school buses have to make, it is little wonder that their brakes are often the first components to wear out during a typical school year. The dozens of stops while in route to pick up and drop off school children puts a strain on the brake’s pads, bearings, and other parts.

Symptoms like squealing, scraping, or grinding indicate it is time to have the brakes on a bus replaced or repaired. You can head off brake problems with your school buses by having them inspected and serviced on a regular basis, and check this off your mechanical issues list.

Mechanical Issues: Engine Overheating

Buses have powerful engines. However, their size and power do not make them immune to challenges like overheating.

When the gauge needle on the bus’s dashboard creeps toward the red zone, it is time to have the engine inspected and repaired if needed. The fix might involve replacing a radiator hose or flushing out the radiator, for example. It also could involve more in-depth work like having the thermostat replaced.

You cannot afford to have a bus out of commission because of overheating issues. You can avoid this problem by having a skilled bus mechanic inspect and service your bus engine every two to three months.

Mechanical Issues: Dead Batteries

Nothing is more frustrating for a dedicated bus driver than to find his or her bus with a dead battery. A dead battery takes that bus out of service for the day and also could mean the driver does not get to earn a day’s wages.

When the battery dies in one of your buses, you can get it replaced quickly by taking the bus to an experienced bus mechanic. You can also make sure batteries are viable and replaced in time by allowing the mechanic to regularly test them for you.

The school children in your district count on reliable buses to take them to and from school during the week. You can keep your routes on track and avoid expensive and difficult bus mechanical issues by having your fleet of school buses serviced by a professional bus mechanic.

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!)

OUR MISSION STATEMENT:

Hi, my name is Karen Kratz and for many years now my staff and I have provided excellent maintenance and auto repair services for a variety of cars and trucks in Winston Salem. 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.

Thinking About Buying a Used Lexus?

May 30, 2018October 29, 2024 in Blog, Lexus Repair, Uncategorizedby Chris

Here Are The Most Common Issues To Be Aware Of If Purchasing A Used Lexus…

Lexus is a brand that is synonymous with class and luxury. Cars made by this company typically retain their beauty and value for years. Like most vehicles however, a Lexus can be prone to mechanical and cosmetic issues as it ages. You should be aware of these challenges before you decide whether or not to buy a used Lexus for yourself.

→ Drive Train Issues…

Lexus offers a 48-month, 50,000 drive train warranty on all of its new vehicles. If a mechanical issue occurs with the drive train within that time or mile span, the manufacturer will typically pay for the cost of its repair.

It is highly possible the manufacturer warranty is no longer applicable on the used Lexus you are considering. If not, it’s important to know one of the most commonly reported drive train issues. A significant number of owners of used automatic drive train Lexus vehicles have observed that their check engine lights come on suddenly while driving.

The most common engine code for this occurrence is P0751, which could indicate dirty or low transmission fluid. As well as, PO714 code, which indicates a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit. And lastly, trouble code PO894, which indicates a problem with the transmission component slipping.

→ Oil Leaking From The Timing Chain Cover…

Another commonly reported issue with all makes and models of used Lexus vehicles involves oil leaking from the timing chain cover. Many people who reported this issue indicated that it started when their vehicles reached 80,000 miles.

The issue is one of the more costly problems to repair. The base line estimate for repairs for this issue can be upwards of $4000 in some instances.

However, you can avoid this costly repair by servicing the gaskets on your used Lexus often. You should take your car to a trained knowledgeable mechanic experienced in working on Lexus vehicles, such as Cloverdale Auto. can help your car avoid having an oil leak from the timing chain cover and other places within the engine.

→ Water Leaking From The Cabin…

When you drive your used Lexus, you expect the cabin of the vehicle to protect you from the elements outside. However, some used Lexus vehicles have reports of having leaky cabins. So much so, that water from the outside can easily make its way into the car’s interior.

People who have reported issues with water leaking into the cabin. It is important to note that this problem began when their cars reached 20,000 to 30,000 miles. The repair for the issue is not as budget-friendly as other repairs with the basic cost starting at around $2300 according to online reviews.

This problem typically occurs because of defects or damages to the tubes around the sunroof. Before you buy a used Lexus, take it in to a professional to inspect and service the sunroof.

→ The Throttle May Stick Under The Floor Mat…

Another common issue with some models of Lexus cars involves the throttle getting stuck under the floor mat. This issue, according to reports made by verified pre-owned Lexus owners, occurs when the car reaches around 20,000 miles. People who have made reports about this issue say that it cost them around $1500 to repair it.

The best way to avoid buying a used Lexus with a troublesome throttle would be to have it inspected by a skilled mechanic before complete the transaction. Likewise, you can have the issue repaired quickly. Simply take your used Lexus to a mechanic who is certified and experienced in working on Lexus vehicles.

→ Melting Dashboard…

Finally, one of the biggest complaints among used Lexus owners involves the dashboards of their vehicles melting during the summertime. Lexus recently settled a class action lawsuit with owners regarding this issue.

The company offered to repair or replace the defective dashboards at no cost to the owners. With this said, be certain to inquire if the dashboard has already been replaced.

A used Lexus can be a good investment for you and your loved ones. These cars typically retain their value and are well known for their performance and durability. However, there are some common mechanical issues you need to be aware of if you are considering buying a used Lexus.

Seasonal Damage & Vehicle Repair

April 29, 2018October 29, 2024 in Blog, Seasonal Vehicle Repair, Uncategorizedby Chris

Spring is here, at least according to the calendar. Has the winter weather and salt-covered roads taken a toll on your vehicle? If so, this is a great time to go ahead and get necessary vehicle repair. Here are some seasonal factors that can cause damage to your vehicle:

Vehicle Repairs related to ICE:

One of many driver’s most dreaded weather phenomena is ice…

It’s not only dangerous on the road, but it can cause damage when it freezes and cakes on your vehicle.

During the winter months when your vehicle is covered in ice, try removing it with your hands, if at all possible. If that doesn’t do the trick, start the car and let the heater slowly melt the ice. Unfortunately, there is no way to instantaneously make the ice on your vehicle disappear. It’s a good idea to plan ahead during the winter months and allow yourself a little extra time to ready your vehicle and melt ice that accumulates on your vehicle.

Of course, keep in mind, ice scrapers are only meant for use on vehicle windows! Although time and time again, many drivers use ice scrapers on other parts of their vehicle, for instance the body. Doing so can easily cause damage to a vehicle’s paint. Thus requiring costly vehicle repair. Getting a vehicle painted isn’t cheap. Accidentally scraping paint off your vehicle’s body leaves bare metal exposed. Ultimately bare metal leads to rust.

One of the worst possible ways to melt ice on the windows is to pour hot water on them. This can cause the glass to shatter, and you’ll then end up having shattered glass and water refreeze on your driveway. Cleaning up that mess is not a pleasant experience. Nor is your vehicle repair bill for a replacement windshield. Be certain to NEVER use hot water to melt ice on your vehicle.

SALT Related Vehicle Repairs:

During a winter storm, we breathe a sigh of relief when we see a salt and sand truck doing its job. Because that means all the nasty snow and ice on the road will soon disappear. However, we also know one negative result will be the potential damage an entire winter season of salted roads can do to our vehicles.

Because salt is extremely corrosive, it can cause rust on the exterior of your vehicle. At the very least, rust gives your car an unsightly appearance.

The effects of salt can be much more serious when there’s damage to the subframe underneath the vehicle…

The problem only worsens when you park your vehicle in the garage. All the snow, ice and salt that have accumulated then begin eating away at the frame, coil springs, exhaust, and muffler systems.

Another serious effect of road salt is damage to hydraulic brakes. This can lead to dangerous leaks. If you notice salt damage in the brake area, don’t hesitate get your vehicle repaired at a professional auto repair shop. At Cloverdale Auto, we’ll check your brake system to make sure it’s safe and working properly.

Vehicle Repair Issues Related To “Hitting A Pothole”:

Now that it’s spring, drivers have another challenge to face: The very dreaded……pothole…

Potholes form when ice and running water weaken or displace the soil base underneath the pavement. This then causes it to crack or chip away as vehicles drive over the area. The holes grow larger and larger with time and traffic.

Not all potholes cause immediate blowouts. It’s possible your tire might have tread separation or sidewall bulges. Tread separation appears as large cracks between the sidewall and tread sections. Minor cracks need to be monitored for additional damage, but wide cracks require immediate replacement of the tire.

You might not even notice a bulge immediately after it occurs. However, you should replace the tire once you realize the bulge is there. A bulge results when air enters the internal layers of the tire and eventually reaches the outer layer where it collects as it attempts to escape to the outside. The bulge strains the interior cords and weakens the tire, which can cause an unsuspected blowout.

If you happen to hit a large pothole, it’s a good idea to bring it to a professional. Doing so will give you the peace of mind that there’s no major damage requiring immediate vehicle repair.

Hitting the hard angles of a pothole can also bend, chip or crack your wheel. You’ll likely detect a chip because it appears as a chunk missing from the area of the junction between the rim and tire. A crack, however, can be a nearly-invisible hairline fracture along the circumference of the wheel or in a spoke. In either case, take it to a professional mechanic, like Cloverdale Auto Service, to have the rim replaced.

A sudden impact with a pothole can also cause suspension problems, such as misalignment or broken ball joints, shocks or struts. Loose handling may be indicative of any of these problems. Unusual sounds or vibrations could indicate broken ball joints, shocks or struts. As experienced mechanics, we at Cloverdale Auto can inspect your vehicle’s entire suspension system to check for any and all of these problems.

Tire Maintenance Woman Checking Car Tire Pressure Using Gauge

4 Simple Tire Maintenance Tips All Drivers Should Know

March 17, 2018October 29, 2024 in Blog, Car Tips, Maintenance, Uncategorizedby Chris

The tires on your vehicle are critical to its safety as well as its performance. All drivers should know simple tire maintenance. Doing so will keep your tires functioning at their best and will also make them last longer. It will significantly lessen your chances of getting flat tires, skidding, and other tire emergencies.

⇒ Check The Tread On Your Tires

One of the most important steps you should know for tire maintenance involves checking the tread on them. Tread helps the tires grip the road. It can be incredibly important during inclement weather. It prevents the car from skidding and sliding on wet or icy roadways.

To check the tread on your tires, you can insert a upside down quarter into the tire grooves. If you can see George Washington’s head, the tread on the tire is too low, meaning that you will need to replace the tire soon. If you cannot see Washington’s head, the tread is sufficient for safe driving.

You should check the tread on your tires every month or before you embark on a long car journey. This preventative tire maintenance tip can help you avoid being in an accident or not being able to control the car in bad weather.

⇒ Check Your Tire Pressure

You should also check the pressure in all four tires at least once a month or before you take a long road trip. The tires should have the required weight of air in them. You can find the amount recommended for the tires on your car by looking on the inside of your car door or in your car owner’s manual.

You should check the tire pressure first thing in the morning when the air inside of the tires is stable and cool. Maintaining the right amount of air in the tires is critical for being able to control the car on wet surfaces. Proper air pressure helps the tires grip the road and prevents the car from slipping and sliding on slick roads.

⇒ Rotate Your Tires

Another preventative tire maintenance tip to keep in mind when you want to take the best care of your tires involves having them rotated on a regular basis. Ideally, you should have the tires rotated every 5000 to 7000 miles. Rotating the tires helps all four of them wear at the same pace.

Further, when you buy new tires, you should have them placed on the back axles rather than on the front. Putting new tires on the back axles makes the car easier to handle in all types of road conditions. It also reduces the likelihood of the rear part of the car losing traction and spinning out of control when you are driving on slick road surfaces.

⇒ Balance & Align Your Tires

Finally another tire maintenance tip , you should have your tire balanced and aligned on a regular basis. Balancing and aligning the tires prevents them from wearing out too quickly. It also prevents the car from pulling to one side while you are driving it.

Many people schedule their tire balancing and alignment at the same time as their oil changes. You should ideally have the tires balanced and aligned every 3000 to 9000 miles or whenever you buy new tires for your vehicle.

The tires on your car can last longer and perform better when you take care of them. Simple tire maintenance does not require a lot of money or effort. Simple measures like checking the tread and tire pressure can go a long way in maintaining the tires properly and ensuring that your car is safe to drive at all times.

Scheduled Maintenance the Path to 200,000 Miles

February 12, 2018October 29, 2024 in Maintenance, Uncategorizedby Chris

Cars, trucks, and SUV’s last longer today than in earlier times. The average age of an auto on the road in 1995 was eight years. Today, the average is about 11 years. People are getting more from the cars today than ever before. There are many factors such as advances in electronics, design, and engine technology. Some things do not change but grow in importance. More than earlier times, the key to a vehicle that lasts is keeping up with the regular scheduled maintenance. As well as, ensuring you get quality repairs when necessary.

⇒ What is Regular Scheduled Maintenance? ⇐

The guide to regular scheduled maintenance has two parts, the manufacturers recommended service and schedule, and the adaptation you must make to suit your driving style, habits, and pattern of usage. You can help keep your car in great shape by using the proper instructions. If you do a lot of city driving, then you should apply the schedule that covers heavy usage. Similarly, if you live in a hot or cold area, you should account for the conditions such as cold weather starts that can cause excessive wear.

→ The Manufacturer

The manufacturer’s recommendations come with the vehicle instructions and are often available online. They indicate the recommended mileage intervals for routine steps like oil changes and inspections. The adaptation will require the help of a knowledgeable automotive technician. Some little-noticed steps advised by manufacturers could play an important role in avoiding big repairs. For example, keeping tires inflated properly is important to tire tread life, but also to the delicate steering, alignment, and suspension balance.

Electronics are a growing part of the manufacturer’s equipment that helps the car keep track of its condition, The network of sensors and the on board control computer run the car and also detect signs of problems. The check engine light activates its alarms when sensors send information to the computer.

→ The Technician

In 1995, the average automotive repair worker would have been a certified mechanic. He and she would have a lot of formal training and a lot more time under the hood developing an ear for bad noises and an eye for the beginnings of excessive wear. Today, a qualified technician must add familiarity with on board computers, software, and electronic diagnosis.

Vehicle scheduled maintenance is the key to getting long, productive life from your automobile. It is a significant investment for most car owners, and getting the most out of the purchase is a key to financial well-being as well as safe and happy driving experience. You must have an excellent technician as your partner in long-term scheduled maintenance.

→ Quality Parts

You must act with the idea that you will keep your car for a long time. You can add accessories that make it more comfortable and useful, and items that may have come after you bought your car such as backup cameras. When parts wear or need to be replaced, then it is critical to get the right replacement parts. The right parts include getting high-quality parts when replacements occur, and not settling for temporary type fixes and a keeping a regular scheduled maintenance.

⇒ Owner and Technician Teamwork ⇐

Owners can help the technician hone in on any trouble spots. A great habit all vehicle owners should strive for is to increase awareness of their vehicle’s condition. For instance, owners should look at the ground after parking for some hours to see if there are signs of oil or fluid leaks. You can open the hood occasionally and look for signs of wear in the belts and hoses.

When operating your vehicle, you may hear here odd sounds or detect an unusual odor. These are important pieces of information for your technician. You should note the conditions in which these events occur such as speed or how long you have been driving. Noting information about the condition of the vehicle can help the technicians pinpoint the source of the problem. This habit can help find problems and also reduce the costs of repairs.

⇒ The Path to 200,000 Miles and More ⇐

Modern vehicles have a great potential for long life, and 100,000 miles is no longer the general limitation for carefree driving. Your vehicle can go far beyond, and the electronic and computer-based scheduled maintenance helps the driver play a vital role in early detection of problems. Once your vehicle achieves the scheduled maintenance for 100,000 miles or more, then you should engage your mechanic and technician on a schedule for maintenance that incorporates the vehicle age, mechanical condition, weather conditions, and driving pattern.

You and your automotive technician should add additional inspections or things to watch based on all the available facts. Today’s automobiles have advanced oils, lubricants, rust proofing, and wear resistant finishes. When added to an involved owner working with a well-trained and knowledgeable technician, then you have a path to 200,000 miles and beyond.

Ready for a Road Trip: What to Ask

January 18, 2018October 29, 2024 in Blog, Car Tipsby Chris

A road trip offers you the opportunity to explore a new region of the country without the added expense of a flight or train ticket. Also, this experience is an adventure. You might not even know exactly where you’re going until you arrive. Before embarking on this exploration, you should plan to bring your car to a local Winston Salem Auto Repair Shop. Here are a list of handy questions to ask and your mechanic.

1. How much time should I plan for?
While you know that you should bring the car into the shop, you might procrastinate until the last minute. Dropping off your vehicle the day before you leave on a trip might mean that you don’t have it back in time. Instead, call your mechanic to find out what a reasonable time to bring the car in is. If you suspect that your vehicle needs major repairs, you’ll then need to allow even more days for the work. Planning a road trip in advance is imperative when you don’t want to cancel your trip.

2. Is the car in good condition for this drive?
If you’re planning to travel across the country in a car that’s practically old enough to have its own license, your mechanic might advise you otherwise. While you might fear the answer that you’ll receive, it’s better to know and work on alternate travel arrangements than to get in a car that could breakdown before you’re even halfway to your destination.

3. Can I choose more efficient fueling options?
Chances are that you want to save some money on this road trip, and gas is going to consume a large portion of your budget. Perhaps you’ve been using the wrong type of gas for your car all of these years without knowing it. Even if the fuel you’ve been putting in the car isn’t damaging, it might not provide you with the most miles. Asking this question can provide you with an answer that is useful for your road trip and the future.

4. How are my tires?
Finding yourself stranded in an unfamiliar place with tire issues can feel frightening and overwhelming. Now is the time to ask how your tires are likely to hold up during the trip. If any question exists, consider replacing them now so that you don’t have to deal with unexpected costs and delays when you’re trying to enjoy your vacation.

5. How much do I fill my tires?
Some cars are quite sensitive to changes in the environment. For example, you might notice that your dashboard alerts you to low pressure in the tires every time that the temperature drops below a certain level. Knowing how to fill your tires, especially when you’ll be driving in new conditions, is important. In addition to learning how to use the air pump at the station, you can also purchase a unit that you keep in your car. Low pressure in the tires could happen when you are miles away from a gas station.

6. Why does that check engine light keep coming on?
If you have a mysterious light that keeps appearing on your dashboard alerting you to some trouble, you might cross your fingers that it turns off when you bring your car to the mechanic. However, failure to ask a question at your Winston Salem auto repair shop service appointment could just lead to greater problems later. The answer might be that you need a replacement part for your car, or you may learn that the computer is malfunctioning. Some of the fixes are simple.

7. Can my car handle that terrain?
On your road trip of the region or country, you may want to test your car out on new terrain. Still though, your desire to try out the new terrain does not mean your car can handle it. Mapping out your journey to get a sense of what you’ll be driving in can assist you in asking the right question when you meet with the mechanic.

8. Are any of the fluids low?
Getting your oil changed or having other fluids added to your car during the road trip doesn’t necessarily take a tremendous amount of time, but it can put a halt to your plans. Instead of waiting until the light starts blinking on the dashboard, have all of the levels checked before you start on your trip.

9. Should I have my car inspected now?
In the event that your car is up for an inspection in the near future, you may want to consider having it taken care of at this point. By doing so, you can know about issues present with your vehicle and cross an item off of your future to-do list.

As you’re packing and preparing for your road trip, you might not put too much thought into the car itself. However, if you want to have a road trip without hassle, then you should pay attention to these issues.

Here at Cloverdale Auto Service we strive to become your go to Winston Salem Auto Repair Shop Contact Us Today to Schedule an appointment! Or Call Us Now 336-331-3448

The Truth About Owning and Maintaining a Hybrid Vehicle

December 18, 2017October 29, 2024 in Blog, Hybridsby Chris

What does it take to maintain a hybrid vehicle? If you’re considering buying one, you may want to know about the cost and time it takes to maintain a hybrid. Here’s a look at how hybrid technology works, how important hybrid repair is, and why it’s beneficial.

Hybrid Auto Technology

Full hybrids are dual powertrain vehicles, using a gasoline engine along with an electric motor. The engine recharges the battery pack that supplies power to the electric motor. It also draws reserve energy from the brakes enabling the hybrid vehicle to accelerate at maximum power, even from a full stop. Since electric motors augment the internal combustion capabilities of a gas engine, automobiles can use a smaller more fuel efficient 4-cylinder engine to power the vehicle at higher speeds and the electric motor to power at lower speeds and minimal acceleration.

Battery Pack

Hybrids do have an additional battery pack, but it is much smaller and lighter weight than those in the full-electric plug-in models. Additionally, new hybrid batteries contain lithium ion, which is lighter-weight and more efficient than the older nickel-metal hydride batteries used in the earliest hybrid vehicles.

Considering the dual-powertrain and additional electrical components, you may be wondering if hybrid vehicles require more maintenance than their gas engine counterparts. The following section tells you what to expect while maintaining a hybrid model.

How Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance Differs from Gas and Diesel Models

In general, hybrids and gas models have the same maintenance schedules and the costs are similar. Here are four key differences in gas and hybrid maintenance that you should consider.

1. The primary difference between a gas engine and hybrid maintenance is the battery. It’s designed to be replaced after, so many charges and the battery life varies with different models. Since the battery is part of the powertrain in hybrid vehicles, automakers must provide an 8-year 80,000-mile warranty on the battery. In some states, the requirement is 10 years and 150,000 miles. In fact, hybrid batteries have been shown to last more than 200,000 miles. If the battery needs to be replaced, within the warranty period, there’s minimal cost to you. Even if you fall outside of your warranty period, you can get new or used batteries at a reasonable price, and they’ll come with a warranty.

2. Another difference is that hybrid systems require professional maintenance since it contains a lot of high voltage wiring. You don’t always need to go to a dealership auto service department, but you should find a local mechanic or technician who is experienced in dealing with hybrid-electric technology. Other tasks like checking and changing fluid levels, replacing tires, repairing cracked windshields, and other exterior body maintenance can be handled just like you would on a gas or diesel model. The bottom line is that this part of hybrid vehicle maintenance is not for the DIY car enthusiast.

3. You may be able to extend your oil change service up to 5,000 to 10,000 miles on a hybrid. That’s because the electric motor means there’s less use of the gasoline engine, giving you longer oil life. Additionally, hybrids use synthetic engine oil which lasts longer than conventional oils. The combination leads to cleaner burning oil, so there’s less wear and tear on the engine, and the oil filter lasts longer as well.

4. Finally, hybrids give you a longer life on your brake pads. When the hybrid system diverts power from the brakes to the battery, there’s less friction and heat on the brake pads. So, even when you sit for long periods in traffic, your pads wear at a much slower rate than in traditional gas engine vehicles.

Why You Should Consider Owning a Hybrid

Hybrid vehicles are available in compact models like the Toyota Prius. There are many midsize hybrids including the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and the Toyota Camry. Popular SUVs like the Acura MDX, Nissan Rogue, and the Toyota RAV4 come in hybrid options. Even pickup trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado are available in hybrid models. There are many other models on the market now, and automakers are planning to introduce more hybrid technology in all their vehicles.

The main benefits of owning a hybrid include the following.

• Hybrid vehicles are eco-friendly. They use less gas, which equals fewer emissions.
• They offer superior fuel economy thanks to the dual-powertrain technology. You’ll save money at the pump.
• In some instances, hybrid vehicles qualify for lower insurance premiums.

Investing in Hybrid Vehicle Technology

Buying a hybrid vehicle is a long-term investment. As more of them enter the market, the initial cost is quickly becoming comparable to, and in some cases less than, the cost of similar gas or diesel models. Over the life of the vehicle, the cost of owning a hybrid is often less.

If you are in need of Winston-Salem hybrid repair contact Cloverdale Auto Service today!