Why You Should Get a Second Opinion Before Repairing Your Car

 

Your car is one of the most important things you own. Without it, you might not be able to get to work, school or any of the other important places in your life. When considering work of any type, it is always smart to get a second opinion on price and diagnosis. Here are a few questions to consider.

1. Are you being overcharged?

Many car-owners are not necessarily experts. Because of this, not everyone knows if a price quote is reasonable or too high. Do research before getting a quote, then get a second opinion from a mechanic or knowledgeable friend that you trust to tell you whether the quoted price is fair.

2. Are you fixing the right problem?

Especially if a repair is costly, you will want to know whether a mechanic is diagnosing the problem correctly. Wrong diagnoses can mean more problems and possibly a higher bill for you.

3. How important is the repair?

While repairs that cost only $20 may not be worth a second opinion, it is smart to get additional advice if the repair features a few characteristics:

• You cannot drive your car without getting the work done.
• This is a recurring problem that was not successfully fixed the first time.
• The initial quote is a considerable sum of money.

Get the most out of your car repairs by asking around before making any costly decisions. If you are in need of a reliable second opinion, visit this website to learn more about VW repair in Mountain View.

Car Maintenance You Cannot Afford to Forget

 

Stuck on the side of the road? Chances are you forgot to schedule one of these very important car repairs. Stay safe and problem-free with a handy checklist of vital car maintenance.

Restore Your Luxury Car Through a Professional Auto Repair Company

 

Half the fun of owning a luxury car is keeping it in tip-top shape and wowing every other driver on the road. A luxury car is an investment. Treat it as such by getting your vehicle serviced by a professional auto repair company that is experienced in repairing high-end cars. A good repair business can totally refresh the look of your car. Here are a few key things that a professional mechanic can provide.

1.     In-depth Experience and Knowledge

Repair shops that are experts in high-end car maintenance generally have a great deal of knowledge. When you have your car worked on at such a shop, you should expect to benefit from their focused experience and learn more about your vehicle.

2.    Great Work at Reasonable Prices

While you may need to pay a little extra to spruce up your high-end vehicle, the best repair shops will likely be respectful of your budget and offer a competitive price for luxury work. All in all, the price for luxury car maintenance should be worth it considering the wide range of services that are provided. 

3.    Other Perks

Many professional auto repair companies offer other benefits to the proud owners of luxury vehicles. Imagine some of the great perks a business might offer:

• Free rental car during repairs
• Quick repairs because of well-stocked inventory
• Exemplary customer service

For luxury auto repair and maintenance it makes a lot of sense to go to a company that specializes in high-end cars. Visit this website to learn all about auto repair in Mountain View.

Ohio Car Dealerships Scammed out of More Than $800,000

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and Warren County Prosecutor David P. Fornshell announced....read more

Get Rid of Car Dents to Retain Your Car’s Value

When the time comes to sell your car, you are going to want to get the most value for it that is possible. Dings and dents may be a very common occurrence when it comes to a vehicle’s exterior condition, but they can really hurt the value of your vehicle. Even a couple small dents can be the difference between an appraisal of “good” vs “fair,” or even “fair” vs “bad.” Taking your car to somewhere that offers Car dent Removal in Vista will keep it at the highest possible value, actually saving you money in the long run.

The Damage a Dent Can Do

The first thing you need to realize if your car is dented is that not getting it fixed right away is a door to lots of other issues. A damaged part of a car’s surface, especially where the paint has been chipped away, can develop rust and corrosion, leading to an even more expensive repair. Leaving dents unrepaired could potentially allow another dent to be formed at the same location on your vehicle. These compound dents are usually a lot more complicated to repair, and can be avoided by fixing even small dents as soon as they occur.

Types of Dent

If you are lucky, you will only have to deal with a slight depression. These surface-level dents generally do not damage the paint on a car’s exterior. These can often be fixed by a dent removal tool, which will use suction to pop the metal back out, and then adjusts it to be the original shape. An expert at removing dents will be best equipped to use this tool.

Larger-sized dents that do not damage the paint job much will need to be fixed from behind. Dent removal experts will use special tools to get underneath the dented panel and work it back into shape.

Some dents which involve damage to the paint will be more costly. For these dents, a technician must remove the entire panel from the car, strip it of all paint and then repair the dent. At that point an entire layer of fresh paint is applied and the panel is reattached. Using this method, your car can be made to look as good as new.

Find the Best Specialist

These kinds of repairs require a great deal of finesse and precision, and it takes a trained eye to be able to determine the most cost-effective fix. Finding an expert will save you the most money and help to avoid the need for future repairs. Visit this website to learn about a company that offers Car dent Removal in Vista.

U.S. House Committee Passes the Federal Vehicle Repair Cost Savings Act

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5 Signs That Your Car Needs a Repair Right Away

 

Taking care of your car is important to maintaining its value and usefulness over time. Here are 5 common indicators that you should bring your car in to an Auto Body repair Shop in Vista:

• Chipped or Cracked Glass – Whether it is on your windshield or on any other window in your car, a small crack will continue to grow over time as the weather gets cold and then heats up again, causing the glass to expand and contract. Get these fixed before it becomes a major issue.

• Dents – Dents can lower the property value of your car, and they can be unsightly. Most dents can easily be repaired.

• Squeaking Brake Pads – If you experience a high-pitched squealing noise when you put on your brakes, you probably need to get the pads replaced. Over time they wear down, and the squeaking is an indicator that it’s time for a change.

• Oil Light – Ideally, you should be checking your oil every few hundred miles and getting it changed at a certain rate depending what kind of vehicle you drive and what kind of oil is being used. If the indicator light is illuminated, it means it’s well past time to bring your car in for an oil change.

• Puddles of Liquid – If there are drops of liquid on the pavement beneath your car wherever you go, there is some kind of fluid leaking. This can be serious as it might be your brake fluid or oil. Any leak needs to be patched up right away.

If your car has any of these things happening with it, now is the time to get it repaired. Check out this great auto body repair shop in Vista, where all of these repairs and more can be made.

Best Oil Treatment

When you take your car in to an auto repair shop, get a full service repair to keep your engine running at its finest. A fresh tank of oil is one of the most common repairs needed in a car’s life.

How Online Manuals Help With Minor Car Issues

 

When your car starts making a strange noise, you might worry that it indicates a major problem that will be costly to repair, but many issues can be fixed without the help of a professional. Even if you know little about cars and have no experience in conducting your own repairs, an online manual can help you to pinpoint the problem and may even enable you to fix it yourself.

• Online manuals often include helpful diagrams of the inner workings of your car. By understanding what’s happening under your hood you can get a better idea of where the problem is happening and why. Learn to identify the major components of your car and you will be better equipped to identify a problem yourself or to understand your mechanic when he explains what’s happening with your car.

• An online manual often includes instructions for completing basic maintenance and repairs such as changing your own oil, checking your brake fluid and replacing everything from camshafts to carburetors.

• By consulting an online manual you can determine whether the problem is something you feel confident handling yourself or whether you’d prefer to consult a professional. If you do take it to a shop, you’ll be prepared to give them detailed information about what’s happening with your car.

An online manual can be a great resource when dealing with minor car issues. To learn more about automotive repair in San Diego, click here.

ASA Announces New Collision Division Operations Committee Study

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5 Ways You and Your Car Benefit From Your AAA Membership

 

Membership in the American Automobile Association has many benefits, including discounts and services unrelated to transportation. However, automobile service remains the heart of the organization, and a membership can provide many benefits to you and your car.

1. Roadside Assistance – This is the group’s most well-known service. Club members can call for help day and night for all kinds of emergencies, including a flat tire, empty tank or major accident.

2. Battery Service – Whether you need a simple jump-start or a complete battery replacement, AAA has the equipment to help you get moving again.

3. Auto Repairs – Finding a reputable auto mechanic can be a challenge, but AAA-recommended facilities are screened and inspected to ensure they are reliable and do quality work.

4. Service Reminders – By completing an online form and signing up for Auto Manager, you can receive regular reminders to change your oil, rotate your tires or check your belts and hoses, keeping your car in good repair so you may not ever need that roadside assistance.

5. Driver Training – Keep your car safe from your teen by signing them up for a course with an official AAA officer. They’ll learn important skills and can receive a free Auto Club Dependant Associate Membership when they graduate. Classes aren’t just for kids – the club offers traffic school and driver-improvement courses for adults as well.

Membership with AAA can keep you safe on the road. Click here to learn more about AAA membership and automotive repair in San Diego.

Get More From Your Muffler

An aftermarket exhaust system can give more power to your ride, or it can take it away. A reputable auto shop can help you pick the right one for your bike and install it so you’ll have maximum performance.

Benefits of Low-Emission Exhaust Systems

 

Electric and hybrid cars are created with the goal of limiting the amount of automotive exhaust expelled into the atmosphere each day. If your car was not built with a low-emission exhaust system, you can have one installed. This has many potential benefits:

• Low-emission exhaust systems are much friendlier to the environment. Exhaust from cars contributes heavily to smog and air pollution. By cutting down on the emission of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen, you decrease the amount of pollution in the air and minimize your carbon footprint.

• Minimizing exhaust is beneficial for people as well. Car exhaust is toxic, and carbon monoxide poisoning in particular can have disastrous effects on a person’s physical and cognitive well-being. Hydrocarbon emissions can aggravate asthma and contribute to liver and lung disease and even cancer. Vehicles that are frequently left idling should be converted to a low-emission system for the safety of those around them, particularly if they are operated indoors.

• Many states require cars to pass an emissions test before they can be registered and licensed. If you have an older car, you may have to install a lower-emission system in order to drive it legally on public roads.

Low-exhaust emission systems can be installed in many types of vehicles. They are healthier for people and for the environment. To learn more about installing a performance exhaust system in San Diego, click here.

Camp in Comfort

Spend a long weekend by the lake or at your favorite state park. Don’t let extreme weather or insects put a damper on your vacation – rent a recreation vehicle with heating and air conditioning plus your own bath and kitchen.

5 Tips to Follow for Avoiding Frequent Camper Repair

 

Owning a recreational vehicle can be your ticket to spending less at restaurants and hotels and enjoying more time and freedom on the road. But when your camper ends up in the shop, repairs are often costly. Here are a few tips for keeping your RV in tip-top shape.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

There’s simply no substitute for owning and reading the manufacturer’s manual. Follow the recommended maintenance for long life and optimum resale value should you decide to sell later. When issues occur, check the manual for troubleshooting information before picking up a wrench.

Do Internet Research on Your Specific Model

Researching your camper online will likely uncover various repair anecdotes. Knowing what to expect can help you to plan ahead, or not make the same mistakes as others. It can also alert you to potential factory recalls that you may not have known about otherwise.

Clean, Clean, Clean

When you take great care of your vehicle, you’re going to be the first to notice when something needs attention. While doing things like scrubbing corrosion off battery terminals or washing brake dust off wheels, you’re not only improving function, but you’re also getting up close and personal with parts of your vehicle that you wouldn’t otherwise notice.

Hold a Family Pow-Wow

Be sure that all in your travel party take pride in your recreational vehicle. Review safety information and ensure that everyone is on-board with taking great care of their home-on-wheels.

Choose a Reputable Service Center

Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a shop that you can call or visit anytime you have a question, concern or need for repair. Ask neighbors or friends for a recommendation if you don’t already have a favorite garage.

Taking care of your RV results in more time on the road and less money spent in the repair shop. If you’re looking for camper service in Watsonville, visit this website.

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Why do you need a professional to handle a frame straightening job?

 

If you’ve been in a fender bender lately and find that your car frame has been bent, you may be tempted to try to straighten it yourself. Here are 3 reasons why you may want to leave this particular job to the professionals.

1. Having the proper tools for the job.

A good auto repair shop will have many specialty tools designed to help with this particular task. There are computerized tools that can measure proper alignment, ultrasound technology to measure the amount of damage, and lasers to help with the proper amount of alignment. You may be able to find something which will actually bend your car frame (try searching for straightening videos on Youtube), but it will end up being a guessing game as to whether you get it straight enough, in the right direction, with the right angles.

2. Sometimes welding may be necessary.

Occasionally, a car frame can’t be completely straightened because it’s too damaged. In these cases, it may be necessary to remove portions of the frame and weld in a new section. Improper welding can result in a car frame that is not structurally safe. It definitely is best to leave this task to the experts.

3. Safety First!

Frame straightening can put a large load on any chains used to perform the job. When secured inadequately, or if they are not of the correct weight, they can break and cause bodily injury. Your car can even be damaged worse if the tools you are trying to use are not secured correctly.

Although it seems like it’s not that difficult, car frame straightening is really best left to the professionals. Click here to go to a website where you can find out more about car frame straightening in Raleigh.

Get a New View With a New Window

Say goodbye to cracks, chips, and other damage when a new windshield is put on your car. This pic may make it look simple, but make sure to get a professional when replacing your windshield. Pin this to your to-do list and be sure to share the results.

5 Things to Consider Before You Paint Your Car

Is the old car looking a little scruffy around the edges? Before you take the step to have your car re-painted, here are 5 things you may want to think about.

1.       Is the car worth it?

Many people don’t take into account the current worth of their car before getting a paint job. If your car is only worth $2,000 to begin with, is it wise to put another $2,000 into it for paint?You be the judge.

2.       Are you going to change the color?

Thinking about changing the color? You may want to think again, as long as you’re somewhat happy with the current one. Changing the color can add $1,000 or more to the cost of a paint job, because it means repainting a lot more of the detailed area around the cars edges that could normally be skipped.

3.       Should you do it yourself, or hire it out?

It is almost never smart to do a car paint job yourself. Professional painters working for reputable companies have a lot of training on how to do their jobs well. The level of detailing required is extremely high and takes lots of practice to do right.

4.       What kind of prep job does the company do?

Cheaper companies will do a poorer job of protecting the rims and edging on your car. The worst companies just use masking tape or paint tape to cover up bumpers, tires, chrome pieces, etc. The good ones will actually remove all the extra pieces and put them back on, to make sure every inch of the car is covered.

5.       How much will it cost?

A high end paint job can cost up to $5,000 or more, depending on the detailing. A color change will add an additional $1,000.Mid-range companies can accommodate your request for somewhere in between, but beware – you usually get what you pay for.

A new paint job can make your car feel new and exciting again, so it may well be worth the expense. You can click here to visit a website with more information on car painting in Clayton.

AudaExplore Donates $40,000 to 1-800 Charity Cars to Support Recycled Rides

AudaExplore, a Solera Company, announced a $40,000 donation to 1-800 Charity Cars to help underwrite the nonprofit organization’s critical.....read more

4 Tips to Keep Your Cars Scratch and Scuff Free!

1. Wash your car regularly.

Believe it or not, it’s best to not only wash your car regularly to remove dirt which can cause scratching, but also wash it by hand. Car washes often cause micro scratches, which over time dull a car’s finish. Make sure you rinse once before you wash your car to remove any large particles of dirt, and use a grout sponge to minimize scratching. Blow drying is important; many people use a leaf blower to dry their cars. It eliminates water spots and prevents scratching from cloths, which may get dirt embedded in them over time.

2. Wax 1-2 times per year.

Waxing is imperative to keep the finish on your car protected. It fills in microscratches and keeps them from deteriorating even further. Paint sealant is even better, as it lasts for 6 months and provides even more protection than wax.

3. Repair chips and scratches before they start to rust.

If you do get a scratch or chip on your car, it’s imperative to have it repaired immediately. Otherwise, the chip or scratch could start to rust and deteriorate and get even bigger. You can do it yourself with touch-up paint; most dealers provide a small vial of this with any car purchase. If you’re not comfortable with that option, most body shops can match any paint job and cover it up with a very professional finish.

4. Park Indoors.

Sun and weather elements cause the biggest harm to paint exterior. Park your car indoors whenever possible to protect it.

There are many things that can help protect your car finish from harm. But if the worst happens and you do end up with exterior scratches or scuffs, you can visit this website to find more about car scratch repair in Clayton.

It’s What’s Inside That Counts

Everyone else sees your car from the outside, but you are inside seeing its interior flaws. Your body repair shop should pay as much attention to the interior details as they do to the outside.

What Is the Best Option for Protecting Your Truck’s bed?

Your truck is a tough machine ready to chew up any challenge you throw at it. But that doesn’t mean you don’t want to maintain your pickup’s great appearance at the same time. One of the most used – and, at times, abused – parts of your truck is its bed. When it comes to protecting the bed of your truck, you have two main options: a plastic bed liner or a spray-in liner.

Plastic Bed Liner

Custom molded for your truck, these liners drop into your truck’s bed to offer extra protection against scratches and dents. A popular option, bed liners are simple to install and require little to no prep work or drilling. Drop-in bed liners instantly improve the appearance of trucks by covering existing damage. They also are easy to replace and often a less expensive option compared to a spray-in liner. Keep in mind, though, that plastic liners may trap water and lead to rusting, come loose over time or produce noise at higher driving speeds. 

Spray-In Liner

As the name indicates, this kind of liner is a coating that is sprayed into the bed of your truck. Rugged and durable, spray-in liners offer superior protection against damage that can result from hauling rock, gravel and heavy equipment. Spray-in liners are long-lasting, water tight and may even reduce road noise from the bed. Also a variety of textures are available to suit your needs. Drawbacks of spray-in liners include that they stain easily are permanent and not replaceable and installation requires that factory paint be removed.

Ultimately, the material you choose to protect your truck’s bed depends on how you use your truck. Go to this website for more information about permanent spray liner in Murrieta.

Auto shop expansion gains approval

A Freehold Borough auto body care and collision repair shop will expand its space.....read more

Truck Shell Accessories that Create Tons of Storage Space

A truck shell is a great option for converting the bed of your truck into a small camper or a secure, weatherproof place to stow cargo. You can get even more out of your truck shell with a whole host of accessories that maximize storage space. Before you purchase your truck shell, consider incorporating some of these popular storage accessories.

Hidden Storage

It goes by different names depending on the manufacturer. But this storage system raises the deck of your truck bed, creating a secure, hidden storage space – often incorporating pullout drawers – under the deck while allowing you to still use the bed for cargo.

Overhead Lockbox

Taking advantage of the often-wasted headroom within your truck shell, locking overhead storage boxes provide a safe place for valuables. The size of the overhead storage box depends on the size and style of your truck shell.

Cargo Net

Another option for making the most out of overhead space, a storage net affixed to the ceiling of your truck shell provides a place to quickly stow a variety of gear. Overhead nets offer the advantage of making it easy to keep your truck’s bed uncluttered while keeping items accessible.

Custom Storage

Whether you’re an avid angler or you use your truck for cross-country travel, there are a variety of storage options available to you, such as fishing rod holders and clothes hangars. If there is a specific function that you’re interested in, chances are a manufacturer can add it to your truck shell.

When it comes to storage in your truck shell, the sky’s the limit. Get the most out of your shell by exploring all of your options. Go to this website for more information about branded truck shells in San Diego.

Angle Brackets Add Strength to Your Vehicle’s Frame

If your Chevrolet truck has an old, rusted frame, you can easily spruce it up with angle brackets. These components make your truck more able to bear heavy loads safely.

3 Things to Consider When Buying a Truck Shell

Whether you just drove your truck off the lot or you’ve had your faithful pickup for years, a truck shell can make a great addition to your vehicle.And these days, truck shells are more versatile than ever with plenty of styles and options available. As you look for the shell that is right for you and your truck, consider these things.

1. What Will You Use it For?

The No. 1 question to ask yourself is: “How will I use this?” If your goal is to turn the bed of your truck into a space for sleeping as you explore the great outdoors, for instance, you may look for an option with a bit more headroom. If you’re looking for a way to protect and safely transport cargo, other models might be more practical. Before you start shopping for a shell, be sure to know how you will use it. This knowledge will guide you along the way and ensure you get the functionality you seek.

2. What Accessories Do You Want?

There is an amazing array of accessories to turn your truck shell into something much more than a mere covering for the bed of your truck. Available accessories include:

• Various window coverings and styles
• Truck bed and headliner carpeting
• A host of storage options
• Power outlets and lighting options

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Tips for Getting Your RV Repaired Without Getting Scammed

 

Even if you are an experienced RV user, you're probably not an expert on the mechanics of your recreational vehicle. The last thing you want to happen when you take it in for a repair is to get scammed. Next time your RV needs to be fixed, remember these tips to prevent being taken advantage of.

• Avoid getting repairs at highway service stations or other isolated places.
• Look for warning signs of shady businesses, such as a messy shop or unprofessional employees who avoid answering your questions.
• If you have service center options, get multiple opinions and quotes before going ahead with repairs at any place.
• Get written repair estimates to avoid an unreasonably inflated price when you pick up your RV.
• Do your research. Read online reviews and BBB reports of shops you are considering to ensure they are honest. Better yet, before you even get on the road, be prepared by finding highly recommended service centers at and on the way to your destination.
• Ask if the work is guaranteed and get it in writing. Also ask if they honor manufacturer and extended warranties.
• Get to know your RV by learning the basics of its mechanics and maintenance. The biggest reason why people get scammed is that they don’t understand the technical side of their vehicles.

With these tips in mind, you will be prepared next time your RV needs to be repaired. Remember, though, that most places are honest so no need to be pessimistic. To find a reputable RV repair center in Watsonville, visit this website.

Accessories and Parts From A to Z

Whatever you need for your camper, we’ve got it. We are fully stocked with all the accessories and parts you see here, plus more! And if we don’t have what you’re looking for, we can get it for you.

Why a Truck Camper Shell Is a Good Investment

You already know your pickup truck is useful and versatile—that’s why you got it. Having an open bed, however, can take away from the truck’s utility and versatility. You can restore those qualities by getting a camper shell. You may hear advice against doing so, but the reality is that a truck camper shell is a good investment.

The most obvious benefit of a camper shell is the protection it provides. It keeps your cargo warm, dry, and free of damage in poor weather conditions. It prevents your stuff from flying out of the bed as you drive so you don’t have to waste money on replacements. Note that a fiberglass shell is the most durable, and therefore most cost-effective, option to choose.

Being able to store items in the back also keeps your cab clean. Although a shell isn’t a guarantee that a determined thief won’t steal your property, it still offers better security and deterrence than having nothing. The covered bed also provides a shelter when you need a place to sleep while hunting or when in a pinch. Overall, it gives you the feeling of having both an SUV and a pickuptruck at the same time.

Some complain about the disadvantages, but these are all easily fixable. One frequent con people bring up is the inability to haul tall or bulky items. Camper shells come in various heights, and even if you can’t find one high enough for you, consider if it really is necessary. If you rarely transport large things, then it’s not a big inconvenience to take the shell off for one trip every now and then. In this case, the pros outweigh the con.

Another common complaint is the inconvenience of retrieving cargo that has shifted near the cab. Easy solutions include installing a partition to prevent movement, using a full-length shelf on rollers for easy access, reaching with a long tool, and putting down carpet in the bed for comfort if you have to crawl in. It’s also possible to access a high bed tool box through the side windows.

One other negative shared is how hot it gets inside for dogs riding in the back. Simply open the side windows to bring in a breeze and allow your dog’s head to stick out. Another idea is to install a sliding glass window toward the cab for cool air to flow into the back as needed.

There is no good reason not to get a truck camper shell. The protection and value it gives you are undeniable, and its disadvantages are minor and resolvable. For more information about camper service in Santa Cruz, Please visit this website.