 NewsUSA) – In difficult economic times, it’s natural to cut back on spending, but the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) advise that putting off automotive maintenance and service can cost you more in the long run, with small problems growing into more expensive repairs. For example, failure to replace worn brake pads or a faulty oxygen sensor — both relatively easy services for qualified auto technicians — can result in expensive brake rotor service or costly replacement of the vehicle’s catalytic converter, respectively.
A survey of ASE-certified master automotive technicians indicated that motorists should expect a well-maintained vehicle to last up to twice as long as one that’s been neglected. Among the more frequently neglected items, according to these certified pros, are oil changes, tire and brake service, wheel alignment, air and fuel filters and transmission service. In addition, a well-maintained vehicle gets better gasoline mileage, pollutes less, is safer to operate and commands a better resale value, notes ASE. To help consumers choose a repair shop that fits their needs, ASE offers the following checklist advice: - Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays. - Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant willing to answer all of your questions. - Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment. - Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type of repair work. - Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community or customer service awards. - Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work and certification by ASE. - Look for the ASE sign or logo; it means the shop employs nationally certified technicians. For more information and seasonal car care advice, visit www.ase.com. |
Neglected Car Service Costing Motorists
Vehicle Maintenance Now Means Big Savings Later
 NewsUSA) – Our parents used to tell us the same thing – “Take care of your toys, and they’ll last longer.” Well, our parents were right, not just about bicycles and video games, but also about grown-up “toys” like Toyotas, Hondas and Fords.
In today’s tough economy, consumers might try to save money by putting off routine vehicle maintenance. But according to AAA, spending a little to take care of your car now can save you from more costly repair bills down the road. “While it’s true that today’s models require less frequent maintenance and are more reliable on the road, it is still important not to take our vehicles for granted,” said John Nielsen, director, AAA Approved Auto Repair Network. “A small investment of time and money can mean big savings in the long run.” AAA offers these suggestions to help avoid big repairs: - Stick to your vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance guide. In your owner’s manual, you can find information that will help you maintain your vehicle. - Flush your cooling system. Manufacturers typically recommend a cooling system flush every 40,000 to 100,000 miles – and for good reason. If the coolant is not flushed and replaced, it can corrode the radiator and other components. Corrosive fluid can also interfere with lubricating agents and wear down the water pump. You can spend several hundred dollars to replace a radiator. Replacing a water pump will set you back another $100 to $300 dollars. - Have your hoses checked. If a hose fails, your vehicle can overheat, and your engine can suffer damage. - Get your transmission serviced. If you overlook regular transmission service, transmission fluid can deteriorate and erode crucial internal parts. Replacing transmissions proves pricey, but avoiding the expense couldn’t be simpler. - Replace your timing belts as needed. Mechanics typically replace timing belts every 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Why? A worn timing belt can snap, leaving you stranded. Worse yet, when a timing belt breaks, it can bend your engine’s valves, leading to more costly repairs. The best way to ensure high-quality maintenance work? A high-quality repair shop. All AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities guarantee that their certified technicians meet strict guidelines for professional conduct and quality repairs. To find a repair shop near you, visit AAA.com/Repair. |
Avoid Breakdowns During Holiday Travel
 NewsUSA) – Winter driving creates special challenges, which can only be amplified by the long trips many Americans will take over the holidays. To avoid unexpected problems, Mom and Dad should take their vehicle to a shop before they herd the kids into the car and head off to grandma’s.
The professionals at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offer the following advice for motorists looking to pick the right repair shop. - Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one. You can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic. - Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. You may be amazed at how much another person’s experience can help. - Consult your local consumer organization(s) regarding the reputation of the business. Inquire about complaints and the rate of resolution of complaints. - Look for a neat, well organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays. - Look for a courteous staff, with a service writer willing to answer your questions. Be prepared to describe any symptoms, like noises, unusual leaks or odors, smoke or handling problems, or carry a written list to give to the service consultant. - Ask if the repair facility specializes in certain types of repair work. - Look for signs of business professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community, or customer service awards. - Look for qualified technicians as evidenced by trade-school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work or on-going training, and individual technician certification by ASE. - Look for policies regarding labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment. - Keep all of your paperwork. Good records will help clear up problems that may occur later on in the vehicle’s life. For more information, including seasonal car care tips, visit www.ase.com. ASE was founded in 1972 to improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign. |
