Is it time to purchase a new car or truck in Blaine, Washington? The first factor to consider when picking a new vehicle is the transmission. Do you want a manual or an automatic transmission? You don’t have to be an auto technician to determine which will suit your personal driving style and preferences best. Automatic cars and trucks are extremely popular among drivers, but they aren’t for everyone. Keep the following reasons to choose an automatic transmission vehicle in mind as you make your final purchase decision in Blaine.

Easy Gear Transitions

The number one reason drivers opt for vehicles with an automatic transmission is the ease of changing gears. Drivers don’t have to worry about manually shifting or manipulating the clutch. Continue Reading →

You’re driving down the road on your way to work or to pick your kids up from school. That’s when you notice the dreaded check engine light activated on your dashboard. Whether you’re in a hurry or not, there’s never a good time for car trouble. It’s important, however, to have a professional auto technician inspect your vehicle as soon as the check engine light comes on. There are a number of potential issues the light may be alerting you to. Some of them can cause serious damage to your car if you don’t address them promptly. To prepare you to speak with your auto repair specialist, here are a number of reasons your engine light may have activated.

Oxygen Sensor

Oxygen sensors keep track of the amount of oxygen burned while your car is running. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor is a relatively common car maintenance issue, but one that should still be addressed quickly. Continue Reading →

How much do you really know about the car or truck you drive in Everson, Washington? While there are certainly exceptions, many women depend on others to complete the majority of their auto maintenance needs. In certain situations, however, this can be both inconvenient and dangerous. You may not need to know as much as a trained auto technician, but a basic understanding of simple vehicle mechanics can be extremely helpful. To ensure you don’t get stuck waiting for a tow truck unnecessarily, take time to learn these essential auto maintenance tasks in Everson.

Changing a Tire

It’s almost a guarantee that you will have at least one flat tire during your lifetime. Fortunately, a flat tire doesn’t usually require an auto repair specialist. In fact, you should have everything you need to complete the change in your car or truck. This auto maintenance process is simple, but it does take some practice.

Replacing Windshield Wipers

There’s nothing worse than being caught in a thunderstorm without functioning windshield wipers. Scenarios like this are dangerous for you and the other drivers on the road. In most cases, mechanics will check and replace wipers during routine auto maintenance, but it’s a good idea to have an extra pair on hand as well. Continue Reading →

Has one of your vehicle’s dashboard warning lights recently come on in Lynden, Washington? It’s time to schedule auto repair! While your car or truck has warning lights for most issues, you’ll need a trained auto technician to determine the specific cause of the problem. In particular, you should watch out for the following most common warning lights. If one activates, schedule auto repairs right away in Lynden.

Engine

If you notice a dashboard warning light shaped like a car engine, it means there’s a problem with your engine. This light can indicate any number of issues. You should schedule diagnostics and auto repairs right away to avoid additional damage to your car or truck.

Oil

If you change your oil regularly and as directed, this dashboard warning light will probably not activate. It is possible, however, so you should always schedule the necessary auto repairs right away. Continue Reading →

Are you having trouble with your car or truck in Ferndale, Washington? Don’t assume the problem will just go away. It’s important to speak with an auto repair specialist right away, because small issues can quickly develop into hugely expensive auto repairs. Ask your new auto repair specialist these questions before accepting service in Ferndale.

Have you worked on my vehicle’s make and model before?

Since not every vehicle is made the same, experience really does make a difference. Always ask whether the auto repair specialist in question is familiar with your vehicle, especially if you drive a classic or European car.

Are you a member of any auto associations?

Membership in auto associations, such as AAA and the Automotive Service Association, show that the auto shop and its auto repair specialists are in compliance with certain standards. While not necessary, these memberships are a testament to the company’s reliability. Continue Reading →

Are you experiencing issues with your vehicle in Lacey, Washington? You may need engine maintenance or repair. It can sometimes be difficult to know when it’s time to take your car or truck to the auto shop. While it’s always best to seek assistance from a trained and experienced auto technician, the following signs can indicate that your vehicle needs engine maintenance in Lacey.

Loud Noises

Your car or truck shouldn’t make loud noises. If you notice knocking sounds as you accelerate or slow down, you probably need engine maintenance.

More Exhaust

The production of some exhaust is normal. If, however, your vehicle begins creating increased amounts of exhaust, or there’s a change in its color, you should head to an auto repair shop for engine maintenance as soon as possible. Continue Reading →

Your car transmission is an integral component of your vehicle in Bellingham, Washington. Transmission repair and replacement can be expensive, so it’s important to maintain yours regularly. While your local auto technician can help when problems arise, prevention is the best option. Keep these tips in mind to help maximize the life of your car transmission in Bellingham.

Flush Your Transmission

Part of proper car transmission maintenance is flushing it regularly. While this doesn’t need to be done as frequently as an oil change, it’s definitely something to keep on your radar. Your local auto repair shop can do this for you. Ask about this auto service the next time you’re getting an oil change; you’ll save a trip.

Select Synthetic Fluids

Synthetic fluids are best for your car transmission. Whether you drive an automatic or manual, always ask your auto shop to use synthetic fluids. These may cost more, but they have better heat resistance, and they will help your transmission last longer. Continue Reading →

Has your car been acting up, or is it time for regularly scheduled maintenance? Your car is an important investment; it deserves top-notch maintenance performed at a reliable auto shop in Olympia. Locating a reliable auto technician that you can trust can seem like a daunting task. It’s vital, however, to find an auto repair shop capable of handling a variety of auto services, from oil changes to transmission repair. Consider these features when looking for a reliable auto shop in Olympia, Washington.

Customer Feedback and Testimonials

A reliable auto shop will typically have a positive customer feedback rating. Checking reviews and other feedback options for your auto shop can provide valuable input from customers who have already tried their services.  Continue Reading →

As a car owner, you should already know just how vitally important your car tires are. Proper car tire maintenance doesn’t just keep you and others safe, it also helps your vehicle perform better for a longer time. Unfortunately, however, most people neglect their tires. While taking your car in to see an auto technician for regular car maintenance is important, there’s more you can and should be doing for your tires. Here are several car tire maintenance practices you should understand.

Tires Need Attention as Seasons Change

The weather and changing seasons will impact your tires. In fact, a temperature degree shift of as little as ten degrees can cause the pressure in your tires to change. It’s unsafe to drive with lower tire pressure. To prevent this, take your vehicle to an auto service shop for car tire maintenance as the seasons change. Continue Reading →

Whether you’re an avid traveler or merely driving to and from work every day, it’s important to remember when your vehicle needs an oil change. Generally speaking, you should take your car to an auto technician for an oil change every 3,000 miles. There are some high-functioning oils that allow for longer driving spans, but these must be requested specifically. Even with specialty oils, an oil change isn’t something you want to skip. While everyone makes mistakes on occasion, don’t make a habit of driving long distances without taking your vehicle to an auto repair specialist for an oil change. Here are a few important reasons why.

Oil Keeps Your Engine Lubricated

Regular oil changes at your local auto service shop keep your engine lubricated so that it functions better and longer. Engine parts that need to be lubricated will destroy each other if they aren’t. Continue Reading →