A Closer Look at Automotive Engine Parts

If you own a car or truck then chances are you need good automotive engine parts for servicing your vehicle. There are hundreds of different parts for your car, and your engine can be a very complicated machine to work on. That being said having proper knowledge of what goes where and how it works is very important.

Vehicles of all kinds need maintenance and the first type that comes to mind is an oil change. Typically you want high quality oil for your car but that's not all that's needed. You also need a good oil filter in order to ensure proper oil flow. Having this routine operation done on schedule can keep your vehicle running for a very lone time.

Next operation that comes to mind is a tune up. This requires some of the most basic automotive engine parts and many people can do it themselves. The parts needed for this are spark plugs, spark plug wires, a distributor cap, and an air filter. The operation is simple, and does not take very long to perform.

Aside from the smaller simpler operations many complex repair and maintenance procedures require expensive and heavy duty automotive engine parts. Anything pertaining to the cylinders, valves, water pump, and belt system can be very expensive. If you need work in any of these areas it's generally not a good idea to put it off. Of course this is true for most repair procedures but especially in these categories.

Alternators are one of the more pressing automotive engine parts to take care of. They can also be one of the most infuriating as poor quality models will continually go out. These can also run quite a bit of money and you don't want to have one replaced more than once every 3 years. Unfortunately they aren't something that you can simply ignore and deal with until they fail.

The alternator is what keeps your battery recharged when the car is running. If it is damaged or not working properly it won't recharge your battery properly and this can result in your car not starting. It can also do some damage to your cars electrical system as well. Having your cars wiring replaced is a very expensive and time consuming operation.

The most important part when talking about an engine is the engine block itself. This is essentially the main part that everything else fits inside of, plugs into, or runs off of. A cracked block can lead to severe performance problems and eventually a destroyed motor. It's best to get these serviced right away as the longer you leave the crack the worse it can get.

Automotive engine parts are some of the most complicated products to shop for. There are many different brands and models for the myriad of different automobiles on the market. For the first time shopper it can be immensely confusing and overwhelming. If you have to shop for parts make sure you go to a reputable store and ask for help. Most auto parts stores will be happy to help you find what you need and recommend the right model for your car.

Some More Things You Can Do Everyday That Break Down Your Car

Due to popular demand, here is a second installment of things that people do that people do that can cause major damage to their car. We recently posted an article regarding ways that people ruin their cars. Most of these circumstances may be surprising. Here are a few more top examples of ways you can wear down your car.

1. Not releasing the parking brake: The odds are this will happen to you one time or another. Driving a short distance with the parking break usually does not cause a lot of damage to your car or your brakes. However, if you find yourself constantly forgetting to release the parking brake you will wear down your car quite quickly.

2. Neglecting your car's interior: This does not mean simply leaving some empty wrappers in your car after a long road trip. This is more about not caring to clean out the interior of your car and leaving leftover trash and fast food items to rot and mold in your car. Save yourself from having to take your car to a Utah auto repair shop or Utah auto salvage shop to fix problems with the interior of your car. Keep it clean!

3. Revving your car during the winter: It may seem logical to rev the engine of your car to warm it up, but you can actually cause some damage by doing this frequently. Revving your engine immediately denies the oil of your engine the chance to lubricate the engine and get through the engine. Instead of revving your car right away, let it be idle for half a minute.

4. Not checking out a check engine light: When a check engine light goes on it is something you should get checked out. Engine repairs are in the thousands of dollars, and the longer you wait to repair a problem the more trouble you will run in to. Even if you think it is a glitch, there is no harm in taking it to a close Utah auto repair shop to make sure.

5. Driving your car on empty: A lot of debate is still going on in regards to whether driving with an empty gas tank ruins the car's fuel injectors. Some people believe that an empty tank allows sediment to be sucked through the systems and into the fuel injectors, while others believe it makes no difference. Whether it is true or not, it is not a good idea to drive on empty often since it takes away from the life expectancy of your fuel pump.

6. Neglecting or ignoring bad sounds the car makes: If you hear your car doing something out of the usual don't just ignore it. Find out where the route of the problem is and fix it. A lot of major car problems could have been easily repaired when it first started acting up, but since the car owner ignored it the problem festered in to new problems and professional help from a Utah auto repair mechanic was needed.

There are a lot of different ways to ruin your car. Be sure to be smart and take your car in to a Utah auto repair shop for regular maintenance checks to keep it running smoothly. Use common sense when driving and you may be able to protect your car from these simple mistakes that lead to bigger car problems.

Peace of Mind With a Warranty

In this day and age when most things seem uncertain it appears that people are looking for some security and stability in life. This fear of the unknown is apparent when looking at things like mortgages. Many people are still opting for a fixed rate mortgage even though the interest rate is well above the base rate. Yet ask someone and they will most probably tell you that it provides them with peace of mind which will allow them to understand how much the need to find each month to pay of the mortgage.

So it becomes understandable why people would want a level of security similar to this on their cars. A car warranty is a great way to ensure that your car remains under warranty if something should go wrong. A warranty will help pay towards the financial burden that a broken down car can cause in the event of a fault in your vehicle.

By opting for a warranty you will find that peace of mind is not far away, but an expensive automotive bill is. Some car warranty companies cover many moving components of your car which will help with the repair costs in the event of something going wrong.

It is not only the cost of repair that is covered though. Some companies will also be able to offer you a courtesy car to ensure that you will still be able to get to and from work as well as pick up the kids from school and chauffeur them around.

This small investment into your car's well being will not only allow you to avoid expensive bills for repair that come out of the blue, but will be able to provide you with peace of mind about having a working car when you need it. This would prove an ideal addition for a driver such as a student that has little income but would be lost without their car.

People are coming to the conclusion that a car warranty could really avoid the headache of repair bills for their car. After all, this is probably the second most expensive thing that you will buy so a warranty would make good sense to protect it.

5 Common Car Care Myths

Most new vehicles are relatively maintenance-free, and engine technology has become so computerized over the last several years that most people go through the entire life of their car without ever opening the hood. That is both good and bad because this ability to practice benign neglect with your car has resulted in several misunderstandings about necessary car maintenance.

Here are 5 car care misunderstandings that you should know about.

1. Engine oil should be changed every 3000 miles.

If your car is still under the manufacturer's warranty then the period between oil changes should be no more than is set out in the owner's manual. Failure to follow the manufacturer's prescribed maintenance schedule may void the warranty. If your car is out of warranty you can extend the time period between oil changes by using synthetic motor oil. The number of miles that you can go between oil changes is dependent upon how you drive and the conditions that you drive in. Dusty roads and polluted city streets can shorten the interval substantially. 5000 mi. or more between oil changes for those engines using synthetic motor oil is not uncommon. One synthetic oil manufacturer, Royal Purple, reports oil change intervals as much as 12,000 mi. under normal driving conditions.

2. All scheduled maintenance must be performed by the dealer while your car is under warranty.

This is a common misunderstanding. Scheduled maintenance on your vehicle while under warranty can be performed by any automotive service center, or even by yourself. The warranty requires that the maintenance be performed on time, not who actually performs the maintenance. If you choose not to have the dealer perform your scheduled maintenance then maintaining the proper documentation to prove that it has been done could be critical in the event of a needed repair and a warranty dispute.

3. All car engines need to warm up at idle before driving away.

If you live in a moderate climate and drive your car every day then the internal engine parts are always covered with a thin coat of lubricant and you can drive away safely with no warm up at all. If the car only gets used once a week or so then a very brief warm up, probably only a minute or so, will get the engine parts coated so that you can drive away safely. If you live in a really cold climate where temperatures are below freezing for days at a time, and you do not use an engine oil heater it is recommended that you give the oil a few minutes to warm up and begin moving through the engine before taking off. In all cases it is better to start slowly and let the engine operate at low RPMs to get the oil viscous and moving smoothly through the engine.

4. The PSI on the tire sidewall is the correct air inflation pressure

The same tire could be used on many different vehicles so you are better off using the recommended tire air inflation pressure in your owner's manual or on the doorjamb on the driver's side.

5. It's OK to wash my car with dishwashing detergent

Dish detergents are designed to disperse and remove animal and vegetable fat and will do the same thing to your car wax. The best practice is to wash your car with products made for automotive use. This is the only way you can be assured that your cleaning product will not contain any trace elements that could harm your car's finish.

Car Engine Does Not Crank Over - Auto Repair Tips

I remember years ago a customer of mine called because she was stranded at McDonalds. Her car wouldn't start, it wouldn't even crank over. Luckily I was only about five minutes away and was able to drop by to check her car for her. The battery terminals were after-market, the type that has two 7/16" bolts that clamp over the bare cable end. These are a quick easy repair for the battery cable but sometimes they do loosen over time. That was exactly what had happened in this case. I was able to just tighten the terminals where they clamped to the bare cable ends and she was on her way.

A car that doesn't turn over at all, usually has a battery related problem. Many cars are towed to auto repair shops every year due to loose or corroded battery terminals. If the car engine doesn't crank over at all, the first thing to check is the battery and terminal connections. Here's a quick auto repair tip, turn the lights on and try the horn. If the battery is any good at all this will be a quick preliminary check. If there's no horn and no lights, try wiggling the battery connections. I leave the lights on while trying this so I can tell if I'm making a better connection when moving the battery terminals.

Still no luck? A load test with a battery tester is the next step after checking the connections at the battery. Many times a battery will show signs of failure by turning the engine over slowly when it's beginning to fail, this is an early warning to have the battery tested. Unfortunately other times batteries will just fail with no prior warning. Temperature changes can sometimes reveal a problem with a battery that otherwise may go unnoticed. An increase or decrease of temperature will typically send cars in droves to the repair shop or parts stores with sluggishly starting cars. Batteries will need to have a good charge before they can be properly tested. Modern battery testers will indicate if the battery has a sufficient charge to be checked.

Alternators that are not charging properly can cause a car to have similar symptoms. It's always a good idea to check the alternator to make sure the output is within the manufacturer's specifications. The parts store or auto repair shops have the test equipment to check the alternator output for you. They will check the amperage, volts, diode pattern and check to see if the alternator has a draw or short that may be excessively draining the battery.

Starters can draw excessive amps or have an open circuit completely. After checking to make sure a good battery is installed, check the big cable connection at the starter which is the 12v one that comes directly from the battery. Then check at the starter solenoid (the small wire) to see if it is getting power when the ignition is turned to the start position. If power is going to the starter solenoid but the starter is not engaging, more than likely the starter has an open circuit or is binding. Sometimes the starter can be tapped with a hammer while the ignition is in the start position to get the car to start. This is basically to get the car into the shop for starter replacement. I've used this trick many times over the years to keep from having to push the car into my service bay. The starter can also be tested to see if it is creating too much of a draw on the battery. This can happen when the starter begins to to drag or bind and puts too much of a toll on the battery. The amp draw is measured with a battery and electrical system tester to see if it is excessive.

My tips and tricks have been picked up over the years with real hands on experience. Many auto techs don't like to share their techniques, but I've been selling tools since 2005 and it's time to share what I've learned during my time as a Master Automotive Technician. I hope my article helps many people to figure out what's going on with their car and just maybe help prevent them from being stranded.

Check Engine Light Repair - What to Do If the Warning Comes on the Dash of Your Car Or Truck

Today's GM vehicles use many sensors, switches, solenoids, and other electrical components to control or monitor every aspect of the engine. From controlling the fuel and ignition systems, to monitoring the emissions. A problem in any of these systems, or subsystems, can cause the check engine light to come on. If the engine light is flashing, this is a sign of an engine misfire that is bad enough to cause damage the the catalytic converter. This should be looked into as soon as possible, since replacement of this component can be very expensive. Even if the warning goes out by itself at some point, there will still be a trouble code stored. This does not mean the problem has resolved itself, it just means the fault is not occurring at this particular time. This can indicate an intermittent problem. Intermittent problems can be the most difficult to diagnose and repair.

The first step in any diagnosis of the check engine light is to get the computer (PCM or ECM) scanned for codes. Any time this warning comes on, a code is stored in the computer memory along with many data parameters that were present at the time of the fault.

A simple code reader that can be purchased at any automotive supplier can retrieve these codes. Many of the large national parts store chains will scan the system at no charge. The code will give an indication as to what system has / had a problem. The more expensive scanners will also show live data, and allow further diagnosis by being able to control parts of a particular system.

In order to scan your car for codes, you must first locate the diagnostic connector. It will be under the drivers side dash. If you do not have a car code reader, many of the large national parts store chains will scan your cars computer for free.

On today's newer vehicles (1996-and up, OBDII), the diagnostic terminal is what powers up the scan tool. If the scan tool does not power up after plugging in to the connector, you will need to check fuses. Different vehicles use different fuses to power this connector.

After reading the codes(s) and the short description, you will need to use a diagnostic chart to pinpoint the problem. Just because the scanner shows, lets say, a code for the intake air temp.sensor, does not necessarily mean that the sensor is bad.

How to Fix a Scratch on Your Vehicle's Paint Job

There has more than likely been one time or another when you have experienced a scratch on the paint job of your vehicle. Did you know that there are ways that this can be repaired without the costly trip to the dealership or auto-body shop? The truth is, sooner or later - every car is going to get a scratch, so - use these tips to get rid of the unsightly marks.

If the car has been painted with enamel paint, than the vehicle repair may need professional attention, if not - than you can go ahead with these simple tips to repair a scratch on the surface of the vehicle. When repairing a scratch, it is important to lightly wash the surface of any material that would affect the bonding of the paint that is going to be applied to fix the scratch. Sometimes, when vehicles have been waxed, it decreases the ability for the paint to create a bond with the metal, creating an obvious paint line. A mild dish detergent or even a mild laundry detergent can be used to take off any wax, protecting or seal that is on the vehicle and could interrupt the scratch repair process.

Next, you will need to lightly sand the area where the vehicle is scratched with fine grained sand paper. When completing this step, it is most effective to do this by hand. This will ensure that the vehicle will not be over-sanded and damage the body of the vehicle, or even further damage the paint job of the vehicle. Never use an electric sander to repair a small scratch on the body or door of the vehicle; this will lead to unsightly marks being left after the scratch has been repaired. When sanding, go with the direction on the scratch, as this will not make it worse.

If there is rust near the scratch, than it can be easily removed with rust-cleaner and sandpaper treatment. When sanding, only be sure to grind down the area that is closest to the scratch. Before painting, tape-off the area of the scratch using newspaper, allowing a small cutout for the scratch. This will ensure that only the area required is painted. After all, the paint is more than likely not going to be the exact same tone, unless the vehicle is new and the exact paint is chosen.

How do you choose paint for your vehicle that is being repaired? Often, there is color swatches available from the dealership that the vehicle was purchased from, if not, than at the local auto-body supply store there should be a sufficient color. Remember, these colors may not go on completely flush with the current color. The more a vehicle has been exposed to the elements, the more the color fades - making it hard to determine the replacement color.

Next, the area should be sprayed with touch up paint, avoid brushing as it could cause unsightly marks to occur within the paint. Next, remove the paper and let the vehicle dry overnight to ensure it is not going to be effected by the elements.

Car Engine Cranks Over But Doesn't Start - Automotive Repair Tips

Many times in the past as an automotive technician, I would be given a car to diagnose that either had a problem that prevented the car's engine from turning over or that prevented the car's engine from starting. These are two completely different scenarios and these problems are approached differently. Sometimes when the service writer would create a work order, he wouldn't convey the REAL problem that the customer was experiencing. If the customer or the service writer would make sure the correct explanation of the problem is written, some unnecessary trips out to the car with the wrong tools would be avoided. For instance if the car doesn't crank over at all, I would need to take my jump box with me. And if the car cranked over but didn't start, I would want my scan tool and some starting fluid.

A car that cranks over but doesn't start, in many cases will be due to a bad fuel pump, a broken timing belt, an inoperative cam sensor or crank sensor. The first step in diagnosing a no start is to scan for codes with a code reader or scan tool. Approximately 40% of the cars towed in that I worked on in the last 25 years, either had a bad fuel pump or the fuel gage read incorrectly and the car was just out of fuel. Yes, some people actually have their cars towed in when all they need is some gas! If the fuel gage indicates that there is fuel in the tank, most people will assume naturally that the car does have fuel. But if the fuel sending unit or gage is off slightly, the car's gas tank could actually be empty. One of the easiest ways to check for a fuel pump related problem is to spray a little starting fluid into the air intake while trying to start the car. If the car starts momentarily, then there's a good chance the fuel pump is not working or the car is out of gas. You can also listen for the fuel pump's humming sound when the key is first turned on. Also if a inoperative fuel pump is suspected, a good technician will always check to verify there is power and ground being supplied to the pump, to eliminate the possibility of a bad relay or electrical issue. Fuel pressure can be checked with a pressure gage and if there is pressure, pulse can be checked at the fuel injectors in several ways including the most common, with the use of noid lights. If the injectors don't have pulse the engine won't start.

Broken timing belts also caused about 40% of the tow ins in my experience. A broken timing belt can fail causing the car to seem as if it ran out of fuel while driving. When trying to start the car though, the engine typically spins over faster than normal due to the engine having low compression from the timing being off and the valves being open at the wrong time. If the timing belt breaks, there sometimes could be a code set in the vehicles ECU (Electronic Control Unit) for no signal from the cam sensor. If this code is present, you can sometimes check to see if the cam is moving by removing the oil cap while someone engages the starter. Also the upper timing cover can be removed to allow access to the timing belt for inspection. Most of the time when a timing belt breaks the teeth (or cogs) are stripped down at the crank pulley the bottom sprocket preventing the belt from turning the camshaft.

Lack of pulse from the fuel injectors as stated before can prevent a car from running. This brings me to the third most common cause of a car that cranks over but doesn't start, approximately 20% of the tow ins that I worked on had the following problem. Many times the cause of lack of pulse is because of a bad cam or crank sensor. If the computer doesn't see either the crank or the cam turning, the fuel injectors won't be commanded to pulse. One quick indication that a cam or crank sensor may be bad is to check for RPM movement on the tachometer (if equipped) when trying to start the engine. If you have a scan tool not just a code reader, the cam and crank sensor data can be checked on many vehicles by accessing the appropriate screen. If no revolutions are shown when attempting to start the car, the respective sensor could be bad.

Obviously there are many vehicle makes, with different ignition and fuel delivery systems that may require a service manual to properly diagnose or to delve deeper. But with the above tips and tricks that I've used over the years you'll be checking the most likely causes, that hopefully will send you in the right direction.

Save Your Paint Job - How to Repair a Car Scratch

It's Friday night and you have just left a card game with the guys and then it happens; time freezes. Your jet black paint job from MaCCo is ruined by a white key scratch. What kind of person would do that, what kind of sick and twisted individual would do such a thing as scratch a fresh paint job? As you become the focus of the humor on the highway; you begin to think, "How on earth will I get this fixed before my next date?"

The Do it yourself Car Scratch Remover Guide

Removing scratches can be a very simple task; but very costly if it is not done correctly. Most people because of convenience go directly to professionals when they simply don't have the time. But in most cases you have to go to the professionals simply because the scratch is too deep to remove with a scratch remover/repair. Most car scratches, such as key marks and pebble marks from driving on the highway can easily be removed; here are also some other minor scratches that wont cost you a bunch.

a) Random/miscellaneous scratches.

b) Cob-web effects.

c) Pore-Imbedding strains.

d) Oxidation ( Rust)

e) Acid Rain Spots.

f) Dried bird droppings (parking under trees in the summer)

g) Buffer Swirls (from buffing too hard the last time)

These scratches are normally 1000-600 grit which can easily be fixed or buffed. But at 2000 grit the scratch has penetrated to deep into the surface. That's when the professionals have to step in; the conventional compound or scratch remover would not suffice.

Car Scratch: Getting the Right Tools to Secure Your Paint Job
As you begin to walk through the isles of your local AutoZone or Advanced Auto Parts you begin seeking the right tools. Many online stores also carry variations of paint leveler since the standard compound hurts newer paints. The new paint levelers have heat reducing abrasives that flatten under heat; pretty cool since this now works on almost all modern paint jobs. Now that we have the basics let's get started. Remember your date is tomorrow and you only have one day. First let's get the tools squared away.

Things you will need to repair a minor scratch:

a) Body Compound found at chains such as Auto Zone or Advance Auto Parts.

b) Primer Paint found at your local dealership service center.

c) Sandpaper. (cut into squares)

d) Two towels or pieces of cloth (one wet and one kept dry)

e) Two buckets (one with soap the other plain water).

f) Small paint brush; about an inch to two inch brush.. (Home Depot or local hardware store)

g) Car Polish.

h) Any scratch removing agent such as (Quixx Car Scratch Removal)

Now that we are all on the same page with the materials let's remember that some scratch removers may vary in price, so make sure while you are at AutoZone that you select the correct scratch remover. Older model cars and light scratches work fine with standard body compounds; and do not require all of the supplies listed above. But for deeper scratches you will need all the supplies and sunshine. Now let's begin; but first before you even think about buffing or polishing; wash your vehicle clean. Dirt and grime will make for a very bad paint job, making it appear like melted bird droppings.

Repair Minor Car Scratches

For minor scratches it's pretty simple:

1. Using the wet cloth; apply the polishing compound to the damaged area.

2. Gently rub the compound into damaged area with circular motion.(allowing it to harden)

3. After applying to damaged area use the soap and water to wash area.

4. Apply wax to towel or sponge and gently dub the area in a circular motion.

5. Using a clean piece of cloth gently rub the surface clean.

Repair Deeper Car Scratches

1. Now that was pretty simple. Now back to reality. This key mark was pretty big and a simple duff and polish would not do the job. So you now need to spend a bit more money and spend a bit more time. Don't worry; here are the steps to repairing that deep emotional scar; which we call paint terrorism.

2. Using one piece of sand paper, carefully sand the area. (clean area immediately after)

3. Apply compound directly to the scratch.(allowing it to harden)

4. Using the sand paper gently sand the body compound. (do not sand to hard or to long you may end up doing more harm than good)

5. Clean the area of all dust and deposits.

6. Using the one inch brush apply the primer paint to the scratch; just like in elementary school stay within the lines.

7. Put the paint brush in water so it can be re-used for applying the touch-up-paint.

8. Allow the paint to dry; which may take a while. (grad a bite to eat and watch the 5th inning)

9. Take a trip down to the dealer service center to get the exact paint match for your vehicle; this is the most important step. ( supply your V.I.N to the dealer to get the exact color)

10. Gently apply touch-up paint to the scratches.

11. Now it looks like new. (well almost)

You have followed the steps and are now ready for the date. The scratches are gone; you picked up your dry cleaning and your date is sending promising text messages. Then you get the call from your crazy ex-girlfriend; her evil laugh sends chills down you spine. It's the paint terrorist, she called to claim responsibility for her actions and boast about how great it felt. Little did she know; you have taken care of the problem. Your care is back to being a Superhero and heroes always save the day.

Run Your Car On Water - Can You Really Run Your Car On Water?

Can you really run your car on water? Well, not exactly. Your car will still use gas as it's primary source of combustion. What you are going to be doing with Water Fuel technology is creating an extremely cost-effective hydrogen powered hybrid by taking advantage of the atomic constituents of water molecules, hydrogen and oxygen.

The way this technology works is by using simple parts that you can find at any hardware store to use power from your car's battery to separate water molecules into HHO gas. This gas is then fed into the intake of your vehicle and then creates a more efficient burn for your fuel. HHO gas is very stable and burns incredibly well as a significant power source. The conversion is simple to set up with the guides that are floating around the internet today, however many people have doubts such as:

Is this process safe?

The simple answer to this question is yes. There is less danger to you performing this conversion than there would be to you if you were to change your oil. As long as you follow all of the directions you are in no danger. Just don't do anything stupid like try to ignite the hydrogen to see if it will burn. I'll tell you now it will and it will be ugly.

To run your car with water actually makes it a bit safer, as the fuel mixture will contain less combustible gas than before the water fuel conversion. The process is also very safe for your engine. Using HHO gas as a supplement will cause a cooler burn, which will actually cause LESS wear and tear on your car in the long run, saving you more money.

What does this technology work best with?

This technology works with any kind of gasoline or diesel powered vehicle, however it is geared towards fuel economy, not minimizing power loss. For this reason, vehicles such as giant SUVs and trucks will not see as large of an increase in fuel economy as lighter, less demanding vehicles.

Avoiding Expensive Car Repairs

Most car owners dread taking their vehicles to the auto repair shop. Many people have gone to auto mechanic shops and ended up paying a lot of money for a vehicle repair that they initially thought would be relatively inexpensive. While a few repairs are going to cost a large chunk of money regardless of the precautions that you take, there are a few things that a car owner can do to avoid being overcharged for the average car repair.

When a trip to the car repair shop becomes unavoidable, it is important that all car owners research local repair shops. Try to choose an auto repair shop that a friend or acquaintance has previously had a positive experience with. In some situations auto mechanics will give referred customers a discount. In many cases word of mouth referrals are one of the best ways to save money on repairs. Friends, coworkers, and family members will give a more honest and accurate overview of the service and prices. If you're on your own this time around, feel free to stop by a repair shop and having something generic done, like an oil change. Pay attention to their treatment of you as a customer as well as the quality of the work that they perform on your vehicle. If you feel like they've done a good job, then you might feel more comfortable bringing your vehicle back in the future.

Most importantly, before taking your car to a repair shop, try to find out the general problem and the average costs of labor and parts in your area. The Internet will often provide you with an accurate idea of prices for new and used parts. Also, find out what is the average cost of a part made by the manufacture versus other, generic, parts. When your vehicle is being worked on, stay with your car as much as possible and be aware of what parts are being used on your vehicle. Many unscrupulous auto mechanics will attempt to use cheap parts and then charge the car owner for the price of a more expensive, manufacture vehicle.

Repair Or Replace Your Automotive Headliner

What can be done?

There have been some temporary headliner solutions offered in the past, such as those "twist in pins", but they are at best a temporary solution to repair the problem and will actually damage the headliner board, and cause more problems when it comes time for a more permanent repair.

The best solution to repairing your headliner is to completely replace the fabric of your headliner. You could have that done professionally, although that would be a rather expensive solution. A much more affordable solution would be a "do-it-yourself headliner repair kit" that make this project something that anyone can do.

At stockinteriors.com we also offer a complete replacement for the entire headliner board, which comes pre-covered with the fabric color of your choice. This option is only avaialble for a very small selection of automobiles.

What is a "Headliner"?

Most cars, trucks, vans and SUVs after the mid 70's have what is called a fabric covered headliner board. This headliner board is usually made from a pressed material, much like cardboard. That headliner board is then covered with a foam backed headliner fabric, which is glued directly to the board. In most cases, the sagging or separation occurs when the headliner fabric separates from the foam.

What should I buy?

When looking for a do-it-yourself headliner repair kit, look for several things. First of all, make sure you are buying a quality material. Most headliner fabric comes with either 1/8 inch thick foam, or 1/4 inch thick foam. It is usually best to go with the 1/4 inch thick foam as it is more durable and will give a better finished look. Make sure that wherever you buy, you can get the exact color that you want; a reliable headliner store will send you samples to match your existing headliner. Keep in mind, that time and sunlight can fade your headliner, so look for a piece that has been protected from the sun when matching colors.

Also, make sure that you order the correct size headliner repair kit. Cars, trucks, van and SUVs all come in different widths and lengths, so you want to make sure you buy enough material to cover the entire headliner board. If in doubt, always buy a little extra, as it is easy to cut it smaller, but impossible to make it larger once you buy it.

And last of all, make sure the headliner repair kit you buy comes with enough glue adhesive. Typically, headliner kits include a spray contact adhesive. Usually one can is enough for a small van/SUV or car, but anything larger will require 2 cans of glue. Make sure the glue is specifically made for headliner fabrics and the high temperatures that can build inside of a vehicle.

How do I replace the Headliner Material?

Without going into too many details, the general idea of a do-it-yourself headliner repair kit, is that you scrape the existing headliner material off your old headliner board and glue on the new material. Most quality headliner kits will come with the detailed instructions on how to do this. The hardest part of the job may be getting the headliner board out of your car; be sure not to damage the board in any way, or you will be in worse shape then when you started. And remember that the smoother you can get the headliner board before you glue the new fabric in place, the better the end result will look.

As you can see, replacing or repairing your headliner material is a job that anyone can do. You just need a little time and patience and you can repair that ugly and dangerous headliner.

How To Negotiate Car Repairs

Everything is negotiable, it just comes down to if you want to put forth the effort to negotiate. In my life I have owned no less than 15 cars , that means car repairs. When your car is in the shop for repairs it's a unique situation, you have no control or true knowledge of what REALLY is needed and what isn't. There have been several "special reports" on news programs with undercover cameras showing mechanics damaging or lying to customers about repairs that are needed. The fact that it is even possible creates a situation that should also be taken advantage of by the consumer. Chances are pretty good that your mechanic is over charging you for something, if you take a good look at your invoice after you have had a major repair it has to be somewhat of a surprise that the gizmo that controls your anti lock brakes is $1700.00. There has to be a huge mark-up on the price of an item that is a must have, and you can only get it from the dealer.

Car repairs can be negotiated just like anything else, more so even. Your mechanic or service manager at the dealer, knows for a fact that you are being over charged, that means that all you have to do is ask for a discount. If your mechanic is worth his salt he calls you before he does any work on your car, that is when the negotiation should start. When your mechanic tells you that you need a new "flex capacitor" and it cost around $800, your first reaction should be "Can you give me a better price?"
Or better yet "Can you do it for $700" . You need to make it clear from the very beginning that you want a discount. A ten percent discount is always a good starting point, you are only trying to get a small discount, which is better than nothing. The biggest mistake you can make is to wait until your car repair is finished. At that point he basically is holding your car hostage until you pay him, so that means he is in full control of the negotiation. The very little control we do have is before any work is done, because we still have the ability to say no thanks I'll take it somewhere else.

Most people want a discount, but most people don't like negotiating. Let's face it, it's not for everybody. The reason car repair is set up for negotiation is because your mechanic or service manager knows that he can give you a discount but he certainly is not going to offer it. You'll be surprised to see how easy they will give you 10% just for asking. The next time your you need a car repair follow these steps to get a 10% discount::

1. Make sure you tell the service manager or mechanic to call you BEFORE he does any work to your car.

2. Always ask for an estimate when he tells you what repairs you need.

3. What ever amount he says, ask for at least for a 10% discount. It's much better saying a specific price instead of 10%, so make sure you have your math ready.

That's it. No one said it was complicated, you just have to be willing to ask. Your'e going to be surprised how easy it is, and wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Now take your 10% and do something for yourself,.... you earned it.

http://www.ClickForInfo.net

Crack Or Chip in Your Windshield? Repair it Yourself!

If you've been a driver for any length of time, you've inevitably been in this situation: You're driving down the highway, and a rock from the car or truck in front of you kicks up and hits your windshield, leaving a tiny crack. Chances are, you grumble in disgust as you think about when you're going to find the time to have the windshield replaced. And if you don't have glass coverage, you probably figure that crack will just have to stay until you can come up with the money to replace it. But what you may not realize in this scenario is that your windshield does not have to be replaced at all.

Car glass repair has become quite popular, and for good reason; it's safe, affordable, and actually so simple that most drivers can fix cracks or chips in their windshields themselves with a car glass repair kit.

First let's clarify something about chips and cracks on windshields. Most of the time, small cracks and chips under a foot long do not require complete replacement of the car glass. In fact, repairs are usually preferred, because the rigid tests on the bonds of windshields in brand new cars are not performed on replacement windshields. Using a car glass repair kit, therefore, allows you to retain the bond of the windshield's factory seal.

Replacing an entire windshield can be expensive; most start at $300 and go up from there. But a do-it- yourself car glass repair kit is often less than a third of that price. There are quite a variety of kits available that are quite simple to use, with repairs taking up very little time.

Don't let that chip or crack go on for too long-

It is advisable to repair any damage to your car glass as soon as possible-even the same day, if you can. Ignoring a crack or chip in your windshield is not advised, for several reasons:

o Ignoring a small crack could result in the crack growing until it is too large for repair, and you will have to pay for a complete replacement.
o Small cracks could compromise the integrity of the windshield, causing it to spread completely at the slightest bump.
o Chips and cracks can impede on the driver's ability to see correctly.
o Dirt and grime can seep into your vehicle through a crack or chip.

Headlight Repair and Some Visionary Solutions

Statistics are alarming. Faulty headlights cause a staggering proportion of all the car accidents that happen annually. In fact, the clouded vision of the man behind the wheel can be attributed more to yellowed and hazy headlights than to the drinks he had. Headlight repair is the pressing need of the hour. For a car without a proper headlight repair job done on it is a veritable killing machine stalking the roads.

The need for headlight restoration arises due to varied factors. Weather elements like the sun's detrimental UV rays, acid rain, winds and snow can cause havoc with the car's lighting mechanism leading to cracks in the headlights. The plastic headlights that are much in use tend to oxidize and acquire a yellow tinge after servicing for only a few years.

In any case, a dirty headlight with a mottled appearance mars your car's looks and doesn't promise too well for your safety. Complete replacement is an expensive scheme, so a car headlight repair should definitely be on the cards.

If your headlight is just dirty or water has seeped inside it, then you do not need to drag your car all the way to the garage. You can do this car headlight repair job on your own.

To clean the headlamps, you can buy the cheap but efficient headlight repair kit that is found in the market. Most such kits contain a cleaner, which suffice for the job at hand. For the water lodged inside, remove the lens and drill a small hole beneath the headlight all the way up to the inner chamber. Remove the water and make the headlight dry with the air-conditioner or a dehumidifier.

For some problems like cracks or holes, there's nothing like plastic resin to fix them. And with the resin being transparent, no one will notice the difference. Evidently, with the headlight repair kit at your disposal, the odd car headlight repair job that crops up won't seem a Herculean task.

If things are grave, then the car headlight repair job would actually involve a replacement. That isn't too hard either.

If you have a halogen bulb, then take off the hood, and behind the headlamp you will see a black knob. The bulb is attached to the knob. Unscrew it and replace the bulb. Car headlight repair couldn't have been any easier.

If your bulb and headlamp are all one piece, unbolt the tiny screws that hold the thin metal band outside the headlamp. Remove the rubber covering around the headlamp and replace it. This is one headlight repair job that wouldn't require you to rush to the garage.
Once in a while, a headlight repair job may come up which would merit a visit to the experts. Do not fret. Advanced headlight restoration techniques will ensure that the car headlight repair job gets over within minutes without burning a hole through your pocket.

Headlight repair is child's play these days. All the more reason not to ignore it.

Online Auto Repair

The Internet is a powerful tool to access information on any subject area, and one can find an incredible amount of car care information with a click of a button. Furthermore, with the help of a regular web search one can also find network links to information about automotive repair, vehicle maintenance, automotive diagnostic data and labor estimates. There are also a lot of good online auto repair web sites with individual articles that can answer your questions on all sorts of auto repair and car maintenance topics, such as how to change your oil, the best way to bleed brakes, why a car might stall or be hard to start, what color your radiator fluid should be, or even how to drive a stick shift.

Some websites also provide users with platforms like blogs, chat lines and discussion areas where a person can share his knowledge related to auto repair, like experience changing ball joints, replacing an automatic transmission, or diagnosing the causes for a bearing failure. Many websites offer external links associated with auto repair, like installing a replacement ignition system, upgrading an exhaust system, or making auto body repairs.

Most of these websites offer general advice and one can download manuals on self-repairing small technical snags in automotive parts free of cost. However, some websites are subscription-based and offer detailed advice by expert technicians for a nominal charge. A user can access websites like Jonko Auto Repair Online, TrustMyMechanic.com, AceAutomative, RepairManual.com, Motorcyclebooks.com etc. to get updated information on the auto repair industry, the prevailing rates for getting their car repaired and other information on auto maintenance.

Therefore, the next time you have a technical snag in your automobile, before visiting the repair shop, log on to various auto repair websites and gather information on the problem. This would not only make you aware of the problem at hand, but would also prevent you from getting cheated by your technician.

Auto Repair Fraud

Car repair problems entail the largest group of consumer complaints in the country. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that consumers lose billions of dollars every year due to unnecessary or substandard auto repairs. While most car repair shops are legitimate, there are some dishonest car mechanics running shops in many parts of the country. It is very simple for crooked car mechanics to compel car owners that unnecessary repairs are required because the average Joe knows nothing about cars. People do not realize that they are being scammed. This makes proving car repair fraud cumbersome. Even those customers who suspect that they have been gypped by a crooked car mechanic do not know what to do in order to make their case.

In this article, we will describe the various car repair scams. Familiarize yourself with our advice the next time you take your car into a repair shop. We will also provide some advice on how to reduce your chances of becoming a victim to a crooked car mechanic or repair shop.

Highway robbery

This is one of the oldest car repair scams in the book. These "highway robbers" own or work for service stations. They prey upon drivers who stop to pump gasoline, get air or water, or use the bathroom. There are various tactics they use to part the unsuspecting driver from his money. They have been found spraying oil or dripping it under a car then claiming that there is a leak from the driver's car. They have also been found slashing tires and cutting water hoses and fan belts so that the driver will be forced to purchase new ones. These robbers target the danger that the driver faces if they attempt to drive off without making the necessary repairs and many times charge hefty prices.

Repair Estimate Fraud

Customers who do not get repair estimates in writing experience the consequences when they come to pick up their cars. When the customer drops off the car, he gets a reasonable quote, but at the end of the day, the customer discovers that the repair shop has jacked up the final bill from the original verbal quote. This may seem legal, since many car mechanics find more problems under the hood once the work begins. Car mechanics and repair shops have been known to leave blank the estimate amounts when they have customers sign repair invoices. After the customer leaves, they fill in an inflated amount or an elaborate description of the problems.

Maintenance Hook Fraud

Repair shops will advertise tune-ups or preventive maintenance service at very affordable rates. Crooked repair shops will then use these maintenance specials to "hook" or "snag" and deceive their customers. A simple oil change and lubrication order can turn into very costly repairs. Some mechanics will purposefully damage the vehicle during an inspection to inflate the bill and "uncover" other car problems.

Willful misrepresentation of repairs

Today's vehicles are sophisticated, high-tech cars. The average Joe is not cognizant on how to fix or maintain their car. For this reason, it is very simple for crooked auto mechanics to gyp the customer.

This makes it difficult for the car's owner to decide on whether or not to have the car repaired. Be cautious of a mechanic who seems very adamant at explaining the problem with your car. Always seek a second opinion and definitely get an estimate of repair costs before signing off on any repairs.

Part replacement problems

Many crooked mechanics have been known to charge customers for parts that were not even bought or installed. Furthermore, the mechanic will charge you for the labor cost to install a part that does not even exist. This is definitely scamming the customer. The old parts swap is another common parts scam. Used car parts are often times installed in your vehicle, yet the mechanics charge you as if they are new parts. Always ask for your old or damaged part back after it has been replaced. This will help maintain integrity in your car mechanic.

Fake car parts

To cut down on costs, some crooked car mechanics use fake or counterfeit car parts in place of quality replacement parts. The price difference can be significant but you will not see the savings. The repair shops will charge you the full amount of a genuine part and will "forget" to inform you of this. This business practice can endanger you out on the road. Fake car parts, in general, wear out sooner than genuine parts. Determining the fake from the real car parts is difficult because the product counterfeiters often replicate trademarks or change them slightly that it takes an expert to tell the difference. If you believe that counterfeit car parts have been used in lieu of quality parts, file a report with your state attorney general's office or local Better Business Bureau.

Bait and Switch Repair Scams

Many car repair scams start off with an ultra-low price on a specific repair job; i.e. the bait. The repair shop reels in a customer with an advertised price on shocks and then finds ways to jack up the repair invoice with several other repairs; i.e. the switch. Imagine that you bring your car in to take advantage of the special. Once there, they will tell you that you need this, this, and this. This is a classical bait and switch scam. The only difference is that you will receive the advertised special, but you will also end up paying a shotload of money on repairs you did not expect.

Tips to follow when getting your car fixed

Ask for a written estimate before you sign off on repairs.

Most states require that a repair shop give an estimate in writing. If the repairs are expected to be greater than the estimate, they must call you for your approval.


Ask for a written guarantee

Get all guarantees in writing. Make sure that the shop honors its guarantees.



Do a background check on the repair shop

Contact the Better Business Bureau if there are any complaints made against the shop by other customers.


Do not get gypped into paying for unnecessary repairs

Do not tell a repair shop what repairs to perform unless you are certain that you need the repairs.


Get a second or third opinion

You may have to pay for the estimates, but you could save yourself a bundle of money by searching for the best deal.


Look for a repair shop that employs certified car mechanics before the time for repairs comes

You can take your time in shopping for an honest repair shop, and you will not be hasty.


Ask them to provide you with your used car part

Be sure to ask that they provide you with your used car part so that you can rest assured that they are being honest about installing a new or reconditioned part.


Be sure that the repair shop honors any existing warranty on your vehicle

If so, the parts and labor may be covered by the factory's or extended warranty.


Look for cleanliness and professionalism in the repair shop

Good repair shops are usually kempt and organized. Their staff's demeanor is very professional. Legitimate repair shops will not pressure you into making unnecessary repairs and will take the time to answer any questions you might have.

There are many forms of consumer fraud going on nowadays. It is up to you to educate yourself on what is or is not legitimate. Hopefully, our advice will minimize your chances of becoming a victim of the crime of car repair fraud.

Car Repairs Are Often Covered Under Car Warranty

Having to pay for car repair work can become quite expensive. The good news is that often you can have your car repair work costs covered under your car warranty. This is especially true for new cars but you can also have it for used cars as well.

The cost of repair for the engine, engine block, transmission, clutch, axles and such can become extremely costly. If your car has a drive train or power train warranty on it, these car repair costs can be significantly reduced or completely paid for by the warranty. This will save you money in the long run.

Many auto warranty companies offer a wear and tear car warranty for new cars and some limited amount of coverage for used cars. With the wear and tear car warranty, you can have items that are not covered on the drive train, power train or standard warranty repaired. For example, if you have electric windows for your car. The regular warranties will not cover the car repair costs to have the worn out motor replaced. However, if you have the wear and tear car warranty, you can get the motor for the electric window repaired for less because you only have to cover the deductible.

It is very frustrating to have a flat tire anywhere, let alone on a busy road. If you have roadside assistance then the repair cost for fixing the flat tire or even replacing the tire completely will be significantly lower than without any type of roadside warranty coverage.

A bumper-to-bumper car warranty can also save you expense on car repair requirements. While many people think that bumper-to-bumper means the entire car is covered this is a misconception. The majority of the car repairs problems will be covered but problems that resulted from wear and tear are not typically covered. The drive train or power train warranty only covers a small percentage of the car parts. Adding a bumper-to-bumper car warranty will help to reduce car repair costs for other sections of the auto. Find out more about saving money on car repairs and warranties at http://www.carwarrantypolicies.com

Maintaining your car by the car warranty requirements is the best way to prevent high car repair bills. If an auto is properly maintained, there is less over-all wear and tear on the car which then results in fewer car repair problems. It is important to remember to check the transmission fluid, oil filter, oil levels and air pressure in the tires. Also, you will need to have the oil changed on a regular basis. This will make your car not only run more smoothly but will cut down on the over all car repair costs for the auto whether it is used or new.

Some people argue that the cost of maintaining a car is expensive. After all you have to change the oil, change the oil filter and things like that. However, running the car without the maintenance can end up ruining things such as the engine, the transmission and even the clutch. These are extremely expensive repairs that most warranties of any kind will not cover the car repair costs because the basic maintenance was not carried through.