In these tough financial times, preventative self-maintenance of your vehicle is as important as ever. Today, I found these photo-diagramed maintenance tips for beginners. Hope they help!:

(Here’s an excerpt)
Taking care of small concerns in time may save you a lot more

As soon as you feel there is something wrong with your car like any kind of irregular noise, vibration, shimmer, or you note some leak or any warning light comes on while driving or anything that seems to be irregular - have your car inspected at a dealer or a garage as soon as you can - it might be unsafe to drive. It’s definitely better to check any small problem before it will cause something serious.

Regular mechanical inspection

For your safety, I recommend to have your car inspected regularly, at least once a year, by a mechanic. I mean not just visual inspection by one of the fast lube places, but a mechanic that can lift your car and check major components such as brakes, suspension, etc., while having your tires rotated, for example. This is because many components (e.g ball joints), can not be inspected visually.

Full article here on Samarins.com, including the following topics:
“How to check engine oil • Checking the transmission fluid • Engine coolant • Tires • Battery”

Tags: auto, brakes, car, el segundo, gardena, hawthorne, lawndale, maintenance, manhattan beach, redondo beach, repair, torrance, truck

Here’s a great post that reminds us to keep a roadside emergency kit in the vehicle at all times. Of course, these kits are no substitute for keeping your car in top condition or subscribing to a roadside assistance plan, but we think it’s important for all drivers to be aware of the items that may come in handy if/when your car breaks down.

Have you ever been in this scenario? It’s 11:00 p.m.; you’re driving on a lone country road that’s dark and desolate. You know in an instant that something’s wrong. Controlling the vehicle becomes increasingly difficult and you ease the car to the side of the road. Getting out, you see that the left rear tire is flat and you’re already running on your spare.

If you’re lucky to have an account with the Auto Club and your cellular phone works, or are driving a Caddy with OnStar, help is only a phone call away. If not, you’re either faced with having to hail a passing motorist or spend a night in the boonies. That is, unless you have a well-stocked emergency roadside kit in the trunk of your car.

When it comes to commuting or traveling any lengthy distance, a roadside emergency kit can mean the difference between getting back on the road or being stuck for a long period of time. A roadside emergency kit is the one item that every vehicle should have; yet most of us never carry any of the basic items to help you get back on the road quickly and safely.

Some of the basic items include:

12-foot jumper cables
Four 15-minute roadside flares
Two quarts of oil
Gallon of antifreeze
First aid kit (including an assortment of bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, antiseptic cream, instant ice and heat compresses, scissors and aspirin)
Blanket
Extra fuses
Flashlight and extra batteries
Flat head screwdrivers
Phillips head screwdrivers
Pliers
Vise Grips
Adjustable wrench
Tire inflator (such as a Fix-A-Flat)
Tire pressure gauge
Rags
Roll of paper towels
Roll of duct tape
Spray bottle with washer fluid
Pocketknife
Ice scraper
Pen and paper
Help sign
Granola or energy bars
Bottled water
and heavy-duty nylon bag to carry it all in.
Granted, all these items practically necessitate a Ford Excursion to haul them down the road, but a basic version with two roadside flares, a quart of oil, small first aid kit, extra fuses, flashlight, Leatherman Tool (or any other multipurpose tool commonly containing pliers, wire cutters, knife, saw, bottle opener, screwdrivers, files and an awl), tire inflator, rags, pocket knife, pen and paper and a help sign will take up a minimal amount of trunk space.

A few companies offer pre-assembled emergency roadside kits, ranging from RightTrak’s 58-piece Deluxe Auto Safety Kit ($24.00) to the 78-piece Auto First Aid Kit from Home First Aid ($39.95). While these kits contain the basics in a small convenient carrier, you might want to augment yours with a few of the items listed above to suit your needs.

Before you actually use your kit in an emergency situation, take some time to familiarize yourself with the items you’ve collected and how to use them properly. Also remember that the most important item is your own good judgment - stopping to change a tire in the high-speed lane is only an accident waiting to happen.

Unfortunately, there isn’t “one tool for all roadside emergency needs.” But with a little planning and a smidgen of trunk space, an emergency roadside kit can often save the day.

(via http://www.edmunds.com)

Here’s some empirical evidence gathered by Kevin Ransom of AOL Auto that independently owned shops–like Tune Dynamics–are a better value when servicing your car or truck:

“Where Is The Best Place To Get Your Car Serviced?
Independent Shops Cheaper In Study, Claim Parity on Quality”

As the economy continues to slump, and as more consumers are foregoing the purchase of new cars and hanging on to their old ones, the cost of auto repairs is becoming a hotter topic than ever.

Even before the current economic crisis, the conventional wisdom (for whatever that’s worth) was that repairs were less costly at independent repair shops than at dealerships.

Countering that truism was the claim, from new-car dealerships, that their technicians had more sophisticated training and that the quality of work was higher. The verbal jousting on this topic has been going on for years.

But a recent, first-of-its-kind study by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) would seem to back up the truism that costs are indeed lower at those “indie” shops. The AAIA is a trade association representing companies that manufacture and distribute aftermarket parts, accessories, chemicals and supplies, as well as independent repair shops.

According to the AAIA study, repairs cost an average of 34 percent more at new car dealerships compared to the independent dealers, for a total “extra” cost of $11.7 billion a year.

The study was conducted during November and December of 2008 and was based on 840 telephone interviews with both new-car dealerships and independent repair shops in six major cities — Boston, Newark, Atlanta, St. Louis, Los Angeles and Seattle. Foreign and domestic nameplates were considered separately.

Interviewers asked the dealers and repair shops what parts and labor prices they charged for 10 different types of repairs.

In the six cities where surveys were conducted, the cost of vehicle repairs ranged from 19.7 percent more to 46.8 percent more at new car dealerships, compared to independent repair shops.”

[Full article can be found at AOL Auto]

Tags: auto repair, brake inspection, car maintenance, el segundo, family owned, gardena, hawthorne, independent shop, inglewood, lamp inspection, lawndale, manhattan beach, redondo beach, south bay, torrance, tune up, value

Found this excellent post which details common issues related to your car’s air conditioning system. There are many more informative posts at the Car and Driving Tips site.

Air conditioning, which was once a great luxury, is now a common feature on most motor vehicles. While the servicing of modern car air conditioning systems is best left to professionals, you can get the most enjoyment from your ac system if you know a bit about how it works and what malfunctions you should be on the lookout for.

1. Odd smells coming from the air conditioning may be caused by bacterial buildups

As your car becomes older, or when the air conditioning system is used infrequently, bacteria, micro-organisms, mold and fungi may start growing, just behind the dash panel on the evaporator causing some very unpleasant odors. Some even claim this can result in headaches and flu like symptom sometimes referred to as “sick car syndrome.”

This problem can be solved by using an anti-bacterial treatment that destroys the bacteria growth and leaves your car smelling fresh again.

2. If you car does not feel cold enough, then you may need to recharge your system

If you feel that your car doesn’t feel as cold as your friend’s car, then your system may need servicing. The air conditioning system in your vehicle is not usually covered by most manufacturers servicing schedules and the refrigerant gas that is used to operate the system depletes over time. On average most vehicles lose up to 15% per annum. This leakage can be caused when then system is not used during the winter months. Thus allowing the small “O” ring seals to dry out resulting in a gradual deterioration in system performance. If this continues, eventually the system will not be able to operate at all.

Most problems of this type can be put right fairly easily by a leak check of your system followed by a complete refill of your air conditioning refrigerant, this is sometimes referred to as a re-gas.

3. Running your air conditioning year round will help maintain the system

If you run the air conditioning in the winter it will help to keep the system well lubricated and leak tight. This is because the refrigerant actually carries the oil that lubricates the system and most importantly the compressor. It also keeps the seals and hoses moist, thus preventing them from drying out and cracking which can lead to leaks.
Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: air conditioning system car auto problems troubleshooti

Some simple tips to help you get more bang for your buck at the pump…

[via Howcast]

Tags: "gas mileage", car auto truck repair maintenance brakes lawndale "manh

Did you know that Tune Dynamics is an officially licensed Brake and Lamp Inspection Station? Peace of mind comes along with selecting the most qualified professionals available to service your vehicle.  The excerpt below is from the entertaining and respected site ‘Car Talk‘:

——————–

Car Talk Service Advice: Brakes

Brake pads, linings and rotors are parts of your car’s brake system and are housed next to each of the wheels. They push against one another to create friction, which stops the car.

The disc brake caliper (1) squeezes brake pads (2) against either side of the rotor (3). The rotor is part of the hub (4), to which the wheel attaches.

There are two kinds of brake systems: disc brakes and drum brakes. Disc brakes are the most common system in use today, and they’re very much like the hand brakes on a bicycle. When you step on your car’s brake pedal, the brake pads squeeze a spinning disc rotor that’s attached to the wheel. The resulting friction, when applied to each of the wheels, slows the car.

The second type, drum brakes, involve brake shoes that push out against a spinning brake drum, which is attached to the wheel. This friction slows the car.

Both systems work by creating friction, so brake parts are expected to wear out. The questions then are, how worn out are they? And are they worn out enough that they need to be replaced?

That’s what this service is all about — checking these components for wear and other potential problems.

Should I do this service when it’s recommended?

Absolutely.

Why do I have to do this?

In short, you do this service so you don’t crash into a cabbage truck.

What happens if I don’t do this?

If you neglect your brake pads and shoes, your brakes will ultimately fail. Even before that happens, however, you can cause damage to other, more expensive brake parts, such as rotors, drums and calipers. In other words: a stitch in time … saves you from helping your mechanic with a boat payment later on.

Can I Do This Myself?
It depends on where you rank on the Car Talk do-it-yourself scale:
	There are two kinds of screwdrivers?
	I’ve successfully hung pictures around the house.
	I’ve changed my own oil.
	I’ve fixed things on my car that involve removing more than five bolts.
	I’ve built a working nuclear reactor out of wood.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms when you brake …

• flashing brake warning light
• squealing, chirping or grinding noises
• pulsations in the brake pedal
• shaky steering wheel
• increased stopping distance
• car pulls to one side when you stop

… your brakes may require servicing. Make an appointment with your mechanic right away.

Car Talk Tip: Most cars have disc brakes in the front and back. A few economy vehicles and many light trucks have disc brakes in the front and drum brakes on the rear wheels.

photograph by Joe Wiesenfelder, cars.com
Posted on 3/31/05

——————-

Visit Car Talk dot com for more discussions about cars and car maintenance.

Happy driving

Tags: car auto truck repair maintenance brakes lawndale "manh

[excerpts below taken from CarCare.org]

….

The classic “tune-up” was once the heart of the automotive business and contrary to some beliefs, today’s modern vehicles still need tune-ups to keep them performing at the most efficient levels.

….

Because vehicles have changed so much over the years, the Car Care Council has introduced the 21st Century Tune-up. This program is designed to help re-define and educate motorists as to what a tune-up should consist of on today’s modern vehicles.

“There is a misconception that today’s modern vehicles don’t need tune-ups because they never break down, but that simply is not true,” said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. “If you’re at work and your computer goes down, you can’t get any more work done. It’s the same with your vehicle. If the vehicle isn’t being properly maintained, you’re not going to get where you want to go.”

As part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today’s modern vehicles, the following systems should be inspected:

• battery, charging and starting
• engine mechanical
• powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks)
• fuel
• ignition
• emissions

Vehicle owners ask for tune-ups for a variety of reasons, including improving performance, maintaining reliability, planning a vacation, preparing for winter/summer or because they’re giving the car to a friend or family member.

To help ensure good performance, fuel economy and emissions, the Car Care Council also recommends that motorists take the time necessary to become familiar with their vehicle from every aspect. Study the owner’s manual to become thoroughly acquainted with the operation of all systems. Pay special attention to the indicator lights and instruments.

“The ‘Be Car Care Aware’ campaign is about helping motorists make informed decisions about their vehicles’ care and maintenance,” said White. “With the 21St Century Tune-up, we will continue to help vehicle owners make great strides in reducing vehicle neglect.”

A new brochure is available that familiarizes motorists with the opportunities for preventive maintenance in and around their vehicle. The brochure contains information about the “Be Car Care Aware” campaign, a full-size schematic of vehicle parts, components and maintenance recommendations. For more information, visit http://www.carcare.org/Industry/BCCA_brochure.shtml.

Tags: auto repair, brake inspection, car maintenance, el segundo, gardena, hawthorne, inglewood, lamp inspenction, lawndale, manhattan beach, redondo beach, south bay, torrance, tune up

These helpful tips from the Be Car Care Aware Blog:

“The Car Care Council recommends the following steps for winterizing your vehicle:

• Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system. As a general rule of thumb, this should be done every two years.
• Make sure heaters, defrosters and wipers work properly. Consider winter wiper blades and use cold weather washer fluid. As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six months.
• Have the battery and charging system checked for optimum performance. Cold weather is hard on batteries.
• Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. During winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly.
• Be diligent about changing the oil and filter every 3,000 miles. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Consider changing to a “winter weight” oil if you live in a cold climate. Have your technician check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time.
• If you’re due for a tune-up, have it done before winter sets in. Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance or rough idling.
• Have the brakes checked. This braking system is the vehicle’s most important safety item.
• Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed.
• Check to see that exterior and interior lights work and that headlights are properly aimed.
More than 70 percent of motorists admit that they do not have their cars winterized in preparation for inclement weather, according to a survey conducted by the Car Care Council.

“When the cold temperatures arrive, many people stay inside and don’t take proper care of their vehicles,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Getting the car ready while temperatures are still mild is a proactive approach to preventive maintenance and helps ensure safety and reliability during the upcoming winter months.”

Motorists should also keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to decrease the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing. Drivers should check the tire pressure of the spare in the trunk and stock an emergency kit with an ice scraper and snowbrush, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blanket, extra clothes, candles/matches, bottled water, dry food snacks and needed medication.

As part of Fall Car Care Month, many automotive repair facilities offer free vehicle inspections to make sure your car is ready for the cold weather. Contact your local automotive repair facility to see if they are participating in any fall car care events.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.”

Tags: care care council maintenance fall auto