Wednesday 27 January 2016

3 Common Problems With Volvo



 

The name Volvo has been synonymous with reliability for many years, however, like most other cars, Volvos come with their own uniqueissues. The most common problems experienced by Volvo owners involve the transmission, power steering and cooling fan.

1. Transmission

Many Volvo models experience transmission problems in the form of shifting irregularities which manifest in three ways.

  • Shift flares
  • Erratic shifting
  • Gear grinding

These problems are easily fixed by either a full transmission fluid flush or by a software update.

2. Power Steering

This issue occurs primarily in the S60 model and involves leaking power steering fluid. The hose carrying fluid from the power steering system to the reservoir has a tendency to spring leaks. Fortunately, the fix is easy and relatively inexpensive as it requires only a simple hose replacement.

3. Cooling Fan

Problems with cooling fan malfunctions can be quite serious. In the XC60 Volvo model, the fan may not turn on when necessary. Without the fan, the engine has no way of being cooled which could lead to the motor overheating. The primary solution for this cooling fan problem is a software update.

Fortunately, these issues can be easily fixed by certified Volvo technicians. For more information on Volvo maintenance in Los Altos, visit this website.

Bates Collision Centers Gifts Two Moms with Refurbished Rides

A week before Christmas, employees at Bates Collision Centers employees spent time placing two big red bows atop two rehabbed cars wrapped in white paper.........read more

3 Reasons Why Your VW Needs Maintenance


 

Volkswagen has been a popular car manufacturer for decades. It is considered by many to be a solid vehicle investment, and investments need to be protected. The best way to protect your Volkswagen is to make sure it gets regular maintenance as outlined in the vehicle owner’s manual. Following the prescribed maintenance plan will ensure performance, safety and value.

1. Performance

Regular maintenance checks help keep your Volkswagen engine performing at an optimal level. Regular engine tune-ups that include changing the oil and oil filter, checking air and fuel filters and servicing heating, cooling and exhaust systems will keep your engine purring like a kitten for years to come.

2. Safety

One of the reasons that Volkswagen’s are so popular is their safety features. Regular review and testing by certified technicians ensure these elements are performing at the highest level.

  • Airbags
  • Brakes
  • Steering
  • Headlights
  • Tires

3. Value

Having your vehicle serviced regularlywill keep it performing at its best, which means it will hold its value longer. Simple proceduressuch asrotating the tires, using the right fuel and keeping the vehicle clean can reduce value depreciation.

While your Volkswagen owner’s manual contains suggested maintenance schedules, you can also visit this website to learn more about VW repair in Sunnyvale.

Classic Volvo


 

With a futuristic design, this Volvo looks magnificent. If your vehicle requires a paint job or other work, then take it to a professional vehicle mechanic.

Why You Should Choose a European Car Technician

The reasons for choosing a European car repair shop in Sunnyvale are actually quite simple. Think of it like this: if you had a toothache, would you choose to see a dentist or a podiatrist? The answer, of course, is a dentist because they have specialized knowledge and equipment to help them diagnose problems with teeth. Therefore, it stands to reason that if you own a European car that needs service or repair, it should be taken to a car technician with specialized knowledge and equipment to diagnose problems in European cars.

Because European cars are designed differently than American cars, it is extremely important that your technician have the right equipment to diagnose any problems. Diagnostic tools must be set to European standards in order to correctly identify what is causing the trouble. Simply put, American diagnostic tools are not programmed to recognize issues with European engines, brakes or safety systems.

Engines are designed differently to meet different emissions standards in Europe. Therefore, technicians must have specialized knowledge of European Emissions Control Units to avoid misdiagnosing problems that could potentially cause more damage. Another difference is in diagnosing issues with Antilock Brake Systems (ABS). ABS in European models are programmed specifically for the higher brake forces generated by European brake pads, so installing American pads designed to provide less brake force can seriously affect how the ABS system operates.

Specialized knowledge is a must when it comes to safety features such as lighting, impact absorbing bumpers and air bags. In a regular vehicle servicing situation, American diagnostic tools may show a fault or defect in the safety system where, according to European standards, there is none. Attempting to correct a non-existent fault could seriously affect your vehicle’s overall safety. The best way to ensure the safety systems of your European car are working properly is to use a European car technician when you think there is a problem.

European and American cars are designed differently for different markets and to different standards. When it comes to the service and maintenance of your European car, variances in diagnostics, engine design, lubrication technology, emission control, brakes, lighting and safety features make it even more important that your technician be specifically trained to work on these vehicles.Specialized knowledge of European vehicle models leads to more accurate diagnoses and better quality repairs. Visit this website where you can learn more about the benefits of choosing a European car repair shop in Sunnyvale.

Choosing the Right Color For Your Car

There are plenty of things that you want to inspect before purchasing a car. The engine is a main focus for many, as well as safety features and modern luxury additions. What might not immediately spring to mind, but which plays a huge part in your overall enjoyment of a vehicle, is the color. When you want to get a new car, or are looking to have the body of an older car updated, you may want to spend some time thinking about the color you will choose for the exterior. There are a few things to keep in mind to help you make your ultimate decision.

Some people are attracted to bright and flashy colors. Bold reds can be very alluring, and cars tend to look downright awesome when they are in the right shade of red. Unfortunately, there have been many studies that point to the fact that cars with bright colors like red tend to attract more violations. Whether there is a true reason behind this or if it is merely a psychological trick is up for debate. Still, you may want to play it safe and not go for the boldest color choice available to you.

You also might want to think about the science of color. Everyone has their favorite color. It is a question that is asked when people are quite young, and the answer tends to linger throughout the years. You may want to choose a color based on your own preference, but you can also consider what a color evokes in others. There are many studies out there that explain how certain colors can make people feel upset, happy, relaxed or even envious. Do a bit of research into the topic and you will begin to have a better grasp over what will be the right choice for you.

Think about the vehicle itself, also. There are some cars that tend to look better in certain shades. When you have a luxury car, for example, you might want to go with the slick look of black. If you are restoring an older car, then you might want to consider what the original color looked like. This can help you to achieve the authentic look that you are trying to obtain.

Though it might not be the first thing that comes to your mind for your car, color can still play a huge role in how you appreciate your vehicle. Look up potential colors for your car and you will begin to get an idea for what will work best for you. To learn more about auto body paint service in Raleigh, visit this website.

Gas Monkey Garage Partners with Evercoat

Marvin Gillfillan, vice president and general manager of ITW Evercoat, added, “We are excited that Gas Monkey Garage trusts Evercoat products on their restoration masterpieces. Richard Rawlings and the team at Gas Monkey Garage.....read more

Budget-Friendly Auto Body Repair


 

If your vehicle has suffered a dent, you may have the option of getting a paintless dent removal. Many times a dent can be repaired without having to get a paint job or repair too. This will not only save you money but it will also save you time. Consider these benefits when deciding on your auto body repair:

1.Repairing blemishes without sanding and repainting

Depending on the extent of the damage, many dents can be pulled out and repaired without messing with the existing paint job which gives you a higher bill.

2. Saves time on labor costs

Paintless dent removal can be done in as little as a couple of hours and can save you a lot of money in labor costs.

3.Can be easily performed with other repairs

Windshields are often damaged in minor accidents. This can be repaired at the same time as the paintless dent removal to get your car or truck in top shape and back on the road.

Paintless dent removal is the way to go to save you time and money. A professional technician can evaluate the damage and repair your vehicle in an efficient and budget-friendly manner. For more information on paintless dent removal in Clayton, visit this website.

Repair Those Scratches Before Selling Your Car


 

Selling a car requires a lot of decision making. Deciding where to advertise, what price you are going to ask for it and deciding whether or not to do any repairs takes time and forethought. Here are some reasons why you should repair your car exterior before you put it up for sale:

1. You’ll sell it faster.

There is a lot of competition out there when you are selling a vehicle and getting it in great shape will get that money in your pocket faster.

2. You’ll get a higher price.

People are willing to pay good money for a car that shines and is damage free. Even with small scrapes, potential buyers will want discounts.

3. Your fair market value will be better.

If you get scratches repaired, the fair market value will be increased which will make your investment worthwhile.

If your car is in the best possible shape when you decide to sell it the value will be increased, you’ll sell it faster and you will get a higher price for the sale. Buyers are picky and there is a lot of competition out there in the used car market. View this website for more information on auto scratch repair in Garner.

Repair Your Cracked Windshield While There’s Still Time


 

A cracked windshield can happen at any time and for any reason, such as a pebble hitting it too hard. What starts as a small crack can easily grow to something bigger, so get it fixed before it becomes a big issue.

Get a New Shine Back To Your Old Car


Keeping your old car looking nice can be a challenge. After several years on the road, it loses that nice shine when it first rolled off the lot. Getting it refinished is a great way to get your vehicle looking great again day in and day out. Here are some things you need to know about car refinishing:

1. Professional auto refinishers can match your paint

Experienced pros in the business can match auto body paint to bring your car back to its original color.

2. Clear coats are applied on top for extra protection

Once the proper paint color is restored, certified technicians will apply a clear coat on your auto to protect it from:

  • Small rocks on the roadways
  • Wear and tear from common elements
  • Other debris

3. Dents or windshields can be repaired during the process to complete the renewal

Auto body or windshield repair can be performed at the same time to get your car or truck looking new again.

To get that sleek shine back to your old car, contact a professional auto body repair technician. They can match your paint, make repairs to the body and windshield and protect it for years to come. For more information on car refinishing in Garner, visit this website.

Broken Car Glass Can Be a Big Deal


 

Ignore your car’s damaged glass and it could cost you. A small rock chip can grow to cover your windshield.  A damaged side window can leak in the rain. Save yourself money and trouble, don’t wait to fix the problem.

Little Chip, Big Hassle

Pits or chips in your car’s windshield happen. Little chips can grow into big cracks in a hurry. As soon as you notice a chip, take it to an auto glass professional. Often they are able to fill it and prevent further damage at little or no cost to you, depending on your car insurance policy.

Cracks Compromise Safety

A large windshield crack windshield can jeopardize your safety. They can distort your view cause you to miss something important on the road. In many states, such cracks are against the law and could result in a ticket. Getting your windshield replaced can be cheaper than a citation.

Leaks Allow Lasting Damage

Perhaps you have a damaged side window. While it may not obstruct your view, it may be letting bad weather into your car. Don’t let water wreak havoc on your car’s interior. Get the window fixed.

If your car has a damaged window or windshield, visit this website to learn more about auto glass repair in Raleigh.