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Car Repair Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

Auto Precision Repair — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:38:45 +0000

As a car owner, you may feel intimidated by the thought of repairing your vehicle, but many car repairs are not as complicated as they seem. By following a few simple steps and having the right tools, you can save money and keep your car running smoothly. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover the essential steps for simple car repairs that you can do yourself.

Changing Your Oil

One of the most basic car repairs is changing the oil. Regular oil changes help keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly. You’ll need a few tools, including a drain pan, wrench, oil filter, and new engine oil. Start by locating the oil pan under the car, then use a wrench to loosen the drain plug. Once the oil has drained, remove the old oil filter and replace it with a new one. Finally, add the new oil and start the engine to circulate it.

Replacing Your Air Filter

The air filter in your car is responsible for keeping dust and other particles out of the engine. Over time, the air filter can get clogged and reduce your car’s performance. Replacing the air filter is a simple process that you can do yourself with just a few tools. Locate the air filter box under the hood and remove the old filter. Then, insert the new filter and secure the box.

Replacing Your Brake Pads

Another simple repair you can do yourself is replacing your brake pads. If your brakes make a high-pitched squealing sound, it’s time to replace the pads. Start by removing the wheels and locating the brake calipers. Then, remove the old brake pads and replace them with new ones. Reinstall the wheels and test the brakes to ensure they’re working properly.

Replacing Your Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are important for keeping your view clear while driving in inclement weather. Over time, the rubber blades can wear down and leave streaks on your windshield. To replace your windshield wipers, simply remove the old blades and snap the new ones into place. It’s a quick and easy process that can make a big difference in your visibility.

Cleaning and Organizing Your Car

While it may not seem like a repair, cleaning and organizing your car can prevent problems from developing. Dirt and clutter can attract rodents and insects, which can cause damage to your car’s wiring and other components. A regular cleaning and organizing routine can help keep your car in good condition and prevent problems from developing.

Checking Your Tire Pressure and Tread

Tire pressure and tread are important for keeping your car running smoothly and safely. Regularly check the pressure with a tire gauge and make sure it’s at the recommended level. To check the tread, use a penny. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tires.

In conclusion, car repairs don’t have to be intimidating or complicated. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can keep your car running smoothly and save money on costly repairs. Start with these basic repairs and you’ll be on your way to becoming a confident and knowledgeable car owner.

The Home Mechanic’s Guide to Car Repair

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The Home Mechanic’s Guide to Car Repair

Auto Precision Repair — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:36:48 +0000

Car repairs can be expensive, but with a little knowledge and the right tools, you can save money by doing many of the repairs yourself. Here is a guide to help you get started as a home mechanic.

Invest in the right tools: A good set of tools is essential for any home mechanic. You’ll need basic hand tools, such as pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers, as well as more specialized tools, such as a torque wrench and a jack. A good mechanic’s tool set will include most of what you need.
Familiarize yourself with your car: Read your car’s manual, and become familiar with the different parts of your car and how they work. This will make it easier for you to diagnose problems and perform repairs.
Learn basic car maintenance: Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. Make sure you know how to change the oil, check the tire pressure, and perform other basic maintenance tasks.
Know when to call a professional: While there are many repairs that you can do yourself, there are some that are best left to the professionals. If you’re not comfortable working on your car, or if the repair is beyond your skill level, it’s best to take it to a mechanic.
Keep your car clean: A clean car is easier to work on and less likely to develop problems. Regular washing and cleaning will help keep your car in good condition.
Learn how to diagnose problems: If your car is making a strange noise, or if a warning light comes on, you need to be able to diagnose the problem. Start by checking the simple things, such as the oil level or the tire pressure, and then move on to more complex repairs if necessary.
Be prepared for emergencies: A flat tire, a dead battery, or a breakdown can happen to anyone, so it’s important to be prepared. Make sure you have a basic emergency kit in your trunk, including a jack, a spare tire, and a set of jump leads.
Take care of your tires: Tires are one of the most important parts of your car, and they need regular attention. Make sure you know how to check the tire pressure, rotate the tires, and replace them when necessary.
Regularly inspect your brakes: Brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your car, and they need regular inspection and maintenance. If you hear any strange noises when you apply the brakes, or if the brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it’s time to have them checked.
Keep up with scheduled maintenance: Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. Make sure you keep up with the scheduled maintenance outlined in your car’s manual.

In conclusion, with a little knowledge and the right tools, you can save money by doing many of the repairs yourself. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your car running smoothly, and learning basic car repairs will help you diagnose and fix problems quickly. Remember to always take safety precautions and to call a professional if you’re not comfortable working on your car.

Car Repair Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

The Car Repair Handbook: Essential Maintenance and Repair Tips

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The Car Repair Handbook: Essential Maintenance and Repair Tips

Auto Precision Repair — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:33:58 +0000

Cars are an essential part of our daily lives, and as much as we rely on them, it’s important to maintain them properly. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your car, but also helps ensure that it runs smoothly and safely. Here are some essential tips for maintaining and repairing your car.

Regular oil changes: One of the most important things you can do to keep your car running smoothly is to change the oil regularly. Engine oil helps lubricate the moving parts and prevents excessive wear. Most manufacturers recommend an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Check tire pressure: Underinflated tires can cause poor handling, reduce fuel efficiency, and increase the likelihood of a blowout. Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always before a long trip.
Brake maintenance: Regular brake inspections and maintenance are critical to ensuring the safety of your vehicle. If you hear any grinding, squealing, or growling sounds when you apply the brakes, it’s time to have them checked.
Battery maintenance: A weak battery can leave you stranded, so it’s important to have your battery tested regularly and to replace it if necessary. You should also clean the battery terminals and cable connections, and make sure they are properly tightened.
Regular tune-ups: Regular tune-ups can help keep your engine running smoothly and improve fuel efficiency. During a tune-up, a mechanic will inspect and adjust various systems, such as the spark plugs, air filter, and fuel system.
Pay attention to warning lights: Your car’s warning lights are designed to alert you to potential problems. Don’t ignore them – if you see a warning light, have your car inspected as soon as possible.
Learn how to jump-start your car: Knowing how to jump-start your car can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Make sure you have a set of jump leads in your trunk, and know how to use them.
Keep it clean: Regular washing and waxing will help protect the paint and finish of your car, and prevent rust and corrosion.
Inspect belts and hoses: Belts and hoses wear out over time, and can cause serious engine damage if they break. Inspect them regularly and replace them if you notice any cracks, bulges, or other signs of wear.
Get your car inspected before a road trip: Before setting off on a long road trip, have your car inspected to ensure that it’s in good condition. This is especially important if you’re traveling in an unfamiliar area, or if your car has been sitting unused for a while.

In conclusion, maintaining and repairing your car is an important aspect of car ownership. By following these essential tips, you can keep your car running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and stay safe on the road. Don’t neglect regular maintenance – it’s worth the time and effort to ensure that your car is in good condition.

The Home Mechanic’s Guide to Car Repair

Effortless Car Repair Solutions

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Effortless Car Repair Solutions

Auto Precision Repair — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:32:07 +0000

Car repairs can be a hassle, but they don’t have to be. With the right tools and information, fixing your vehicle can be an effortless process. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most straightforward solutions to common car problems, so you can get back on the road in no time.

First and foremost, it’s important to have a basic understanding of your vehicle. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the make, model, and year of your car. This will help you when it comes time to purchase parts, find repair instructions, and diagnose problems. Additionally, keep a spare tire, jack, and basic tools in your trunk. This way, you’ll be prepared for any roadside emergencies.

One of the most common car issues is a flat tire. If you have a spare tire and jack, changing a flat is a simple task. Simply use the jack to lift the vehicle and remove the flat tire. Replace it with the spare and you’re good to go. If you don’t have a spare or the problem is more serious, it’s best to call for a tow truck.

Another common car problem is a dead battery. If your vehicle won’t start, it could be due to a dead battery. To check, use a voltmeter to measure the voltage of the battery. If it’s below 12 volts, it’s time to replace the battery. Replacing a car battery is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few minutes.

Oil changes are a routine maintenance item that should be performed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If your car is due for an oil change, it’s a simple process that you can do yourself or take to a professional. An oil change will help keep your engine running smoothly and extend the life of your vehicle.

Lastly, if your vehicle is in need of more serious repairs, such as a transmission or engine issue, it’s best to take it to a professional. These types of repairs can be complex and require specialized knowledge and tools. A professional mechanic will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

In conclusion, car repairs don’t have to be a headache. With a basic understanding of your vehicle, the right tools, and a little know-how, you can easily tackle common car problems. If the problem is more serious, don’t hesitate to take your vehicle to a professional for repair. With these tips, you’ll be back on the road in no time.

The Car Repair Handbook: Essential Maintenance and Repair Tips

Mastering the Art of Car Repair

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Mastering the Art of Car Repair

Auto Precision Repair — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 23:30:06 +0000

As a car owner, it is important to have a basic understanding of car maintenance and repair. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also give you peace of mind on the road. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of car repair, including what tools you will need, how to diagnose problems, and how to make simple repairs.

The first step in mastering the art of car repair is having the right tools. This includes a set of sockets, wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers. Additionally, you will need a jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks. A multimeter, which measures electrical voltage and resistance, is also essential.

Once you have the right tools, the next step is learning how to diagnose problems. A good place to start is by checking your vehicle’s manual for diagnostic codes. You can also use a code reader or scan tool to diagnose problems with your engine, transmission, or other systems. If you are unsure about what the codes mean, you can find helpful information online or consult with a professional mechanic.

One of the simplest car repairs you can do yourself is changing a tire. To change a tire, you will need a jack, jack stands, and a spare tire. Make sure your car is in a safe and level area before you start, and use the wheel chocks to secure the car. Use the jack to lift the car high enough to remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare.

Another simple repair is replacing a battery. This is a relatively easy task that can be done with a few tools, including a socket set and a wrench. First, remove the cable from the negative terminal, then remove the cable from the positive terminal. Next, use a wrench to remove the battery hold-down and lift the battery out of the engine compartment. Finally, install the new battery and tighten the hold-down.

If your car has a leaky radiator, you can repair it yourself by replacing the radiator hose. To do this, you will need a socket set and pliers. First, drain the coolant into a container and dispose of it properly. Next, use a socket to remove the bolts that hold the hose to the engine and radiator. Replace the hose and tighten the bolts. Fill the radiator with coolant and check for leaks.

In conclusion, mastering the art of car repair is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and a little bit of knowledge, you can make simple repairs and keep your car in top condition. By performing regular maintenance and making repairs as needed, you can save money and ensure your vehicle is reliable and safe to drive.

Effortless Car Repair Solutions

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Car Maintenance Tips to Prevent Expensive Repairs

Auto Precision Repair — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:12:03 +0000

You want to take care of your car so that you won’t be stuck with expensive repairs down the line. To help keep your vehicle running smoothly, use these car maintenance tips:

Check tire pressure regularly: Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your tires. Make sure to check tire pressure at least once a month and before taking long trips.
Inspect brakes often: Brakes are one of the most important elements in keeping you safe on the road, so make sure they’re in good condition. Periodically inspect your brake pads for wear, as well as any hoses or other components related to them.
Change oil regularly: Oil lubricates the engine and helps keep it running smoothly. You should change your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles (or as recommended in your owner’s manual).
Rotate tires: Tire rotation is important to ensure that they wear evenly. A full tire rotation usually involves moving each tire from one side of the car to the other, as well as switching them between front and back axles.
Check fluids: Make sure all fluid levels are at optimal levels for proper functioning of your vehicle’s systems and components. Some important fluids include oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant/antifreeze and power steering fluid.
Get regular tune-ups: Even if you take good care of your car, regular tune-ups can help you catch any small issues before they become big problems. At the very least, you should plan to get a tune-up once a year.
Check the suspension system: You probably don’t think much about your car’s suspension system—that is, until it stops working and makes every ride a roller coaster experience. If you find that one of the shocks needs to be replaced, make sure to replace all four of them.
Do your emissions test: If you live in a state or county that requires vehicles to pass an emissions inspection, don’t panic. As long as you keep up with the necessary car maintenance, your vehicle should have no problem passing. However, if it does fail the inspection, don’t worry! The emissions facility will tell you what needs to be fixed for your vehicle to be fully compliant.

By regularly following these easy routine checkups you can prevent major damage in your car and expensive auto repairs down the road. Is also a very good idea to take your vehicle at least once a year for a regular service with your mechanic.

If you are already experiencing any car trouble, need an auto repair, or just regular maintenance, give us a call today! One of our experienced mechanics here at Auto Precision Repair will be happy to assist you.

Basic Things to Know About Auto Repair

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Basic Things to Know About Auto Repair

Auto Precision Repair — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:08:18 +0000

Any car lover would agree that automobiles have made great advancements in technology within the last few years. Even just the base model for many cars now includes high-tech media systems, onboard computers, electronic ignitions, and countless sensors. In comparison to cars ten years ago, today’s models are more reliable, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly; However, some aspects of service and repairs never change no matter how many technological advances we see otherwise.

No matter where you take your car for auto repair – the dealership, independent auto repair shop, or service station – be sure that the business is reliable and trustworthy. Make sure to communicate your issues and needs. The following tips will help you make the most out of your money on auto repair.

Get your quote in writing: Get your mechanic’s estimate in writing, and if the final repair cost will be more than 10% over the original quote, tell them to get your okay before continuing. Also, if you do authorize the extra work, double-check that the charge for doing so won’t show up on your final bill.
Get your old parts returned: If you ever need a complete replacement for one of your car parts, always ask for the old part back. If there’s ever a dispute (for example, if you think your mechanic did extra and unnecessary work), getting the old parts inspected by an independent mechanic is the easiest way to confirm your complaint. Be aware that when you keep one of your old parts, you’ll have to pay a “core charge.” This is because many components such as brake calipers, engines, and distributors have valuable internal parts that can be reused, encouraging recycling efforts similar to bottle deposits. Usually, once your complaint is resolved, you can return the component for a refund of the core charge.
Work orders complete: First and foremost, never sign a blank work order. Many garages will see this as a green light to charge you for any work they feel is necessary, without your consent first. Make sure your work order includes all of the relevant information about you (name, address, phone number) as well as your vehicle. It should also have a description of the required work. Always ask for a copy of the completed work order when possible so that you can hold them accountable later if need be. If additional unforeseen repairs come up while they are working on your car, request an estimate before saying yes to any more charges
Labour rate: Reputable auto repair shops will ensure that they use an industry-accepted labor guide to best help you with your car repairs. These guidelines exist as a means of consumer protection, but can only truly be effective if used by reliable businesses. So the real challenge here is finding a reputable garage in the first place.

And How Do I find a reputable auto repair shop?

The best way to find a good garage and mechanic is from a trustworthy source, such as word-of-mouth. If you don’t have any recommendations, try an organization like CAA. Popping into different service centers for trial-and-error is expensive and time-consuming if things go wrong– try to avoid this method. If you need specialized repairs, it’s usually best to go directly to a specialist instead of a general auto body shop. In most cases, these garages will outsource major repairs – like engine and transmission work – to a third party anyway. So if you think you need a specialist, it’s usually simpler to just start with one.

If you are experiencing any car trouble, need an auto repair, or just regular maintenance, give us a call today! Here at Auto Precision Repair, one of our experienced mechanics will be happy to assist you.

Car Maintenance Tips to Prevent Expensive Repairs

Qualities to Look In An Auto Repair Shop

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Qualities to Look In An Auto Repair Shop

Auto Precision Repair — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:03:56 +0000

It can be hard to figure out who you can trust with your car, but it’s even more difficult to find someone who will give you honest recommendations. Unfortunately, this is a valid fear since so many dishonest people in the auto industry. We have worked on a small list, that hopefully, you’ll find helpful when looking for a reliable and good auto repair shop.

Reviews: Essentially, what has happened in the past will likely happen again in the future. With that being said, take a look at reviews on Google or Facebook from people who have tried out the service before making your decision. A personal referral holds more weight than an online review but if you don’t have anyone to ask, reading testimonials is the next best thing.
They should ask for your authorization before performing any work: Never give work the okay until you are one hundred percent sure about what they are trying to explain! If a repair facility is professional, then they should have no problem whatsoever explaining in detail the scope of work that’s needed to fix your car. Also, if necessary, good businesses will provide pictures of the part of the vehicle in question and/or show you the car itself. Don’t allow them to be vague; rather, make sure they give specific information. An excellent and truthful shop should always be prepared and more than happy to display what issues there may be with your vehicle.
Price: Be sure to ask about the price before you purchase anything. The shop should be able to tell you how much it will cost for what you want. However, many shops are not as transparent with their pricing as they should be. Be assertive and make sure you understand exactly what is being done and how much it will cost.
Warranty: Make sure to ask the store about their warranty before you make a purchase. Does it cover both parts and labor? How long does the coverage last? Some places will have shorter warranties with lots of conditions. Most dealerships only offer 12 months or 12,000 miles of protection. We recommend finding a place that has a 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on repairs.
Qualifications: You can ensure that the technicians at an auto repair shop know what they are doing by asking if the mechanic working on your vehicle is ASE certified. Even more specifically, ask what certifications they have to confirm they are qualified in the particular repair needed for your car. For example, if your vehicle’s check engine light is on, you want to make sure your technician knows how to properly diagnose the issue.
How they treat you: The shop’s purpose is to make having your car repaired as easy for you as possible. If they’re not meeting this goal, don’t hesitate to find a business that will.

If you are experiencing any car trouble, need an auto repair, or just regular maintenance, give us a call today! One of our experienced mechanics will be happy to assist you.

Basic Things to Know About Auto Repair

Avoiding Expensive Car Repairs

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Avoiding Expensive Car Repairs

Auto Precision Repair — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:59:12 +0000

Higher costs at the auto repair shop are usually incurred when people don’t take good care of their cars. Repairs, replacements, and other maintenance needs can be expensive, but a car offers convenience to your life so it’s only wise to keep it running smoothly. Doing this will avoid costly repairs down the line. Here’s how:

Follow your owner´s manual: Maintenance schedules come with every car for a reason: to tell you when your vehicle needs servicing and how. These are by far the best guide, as they’re made by someone who understands cars and their parts better than anyone else – the manufacturer.
Fix issues as soon as they arise: To avoid any issues, stay close to your car and be attentive. If you spot something wrong, no matter how minor it may seem, take it in for service immediately. Ignoring small problems usually causes them to grow into larger ones–and they end up costing more money than they would have originally. Not to mention, bigger problems are a danger to the driver’s safety.
Change filters and fluids: Many car owners believe that they are saving money by not frequently replacing parts of the car. However, going against what the manufacturer recommends only damages the vehicle. In reality, you will end up spending more money getting your car repaired than if you had just followed the guide in the first place.
Take care of your tires: Drivers often neglect this easy task, which then harms their car. Over or under-inflated tires are dangerous and can wear down quickly, sometimes causing a blow-out. To prevent this from happening, ask your mechanic how much air each tire should have.
Synthetic Oil: When you visit an auto repair shop, the mechanic will typically suggest upgrading your motor oil to a synthetic option. Not only does this prevent common issues associated with regular oil, but it also improves your vehicle’s overall performance.

Unusual noises from your car typically mean an issue that needs to be addressed. To determine what the noise could signify, it is best to check your owner’s manual. However, if the noise does not go away after examining the source, bring your car down to an auto repair shop and let a professional diagnose and fix whatever may be wrong with it. With this newfound knowledge of how to avoid costly repairs, you are one step closer to being a more responsible vehicle owner!

If you don’t know how to detect common mechanical problems, it’s probably best to just take your car to the auto repair shop regularly. Make sure you choose a reputable place run by professional mechanics who will fix the problem instead of making it worse.

If you are already experiencing any car trouble, bring it to Auto Precision Repair as soon as possible, and one of our experienced mechanics will be happy to assist

Qualities to Look In An Auto Repair Shop

Signs That Indicate Your Car Needs an Auto Repair

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Signs That Indicate Your Car Needs an Auto Repair

Auto Precision Repair — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:55:44 +0000

Your car is a significant investment, so you must keep it in good condition. Occasionally, your vehicle will need to be serviced by a mechanic because of one or more potential issues.

Auto problems can present themselves in many ways, and you need to know which ones are time-sensitive. Here are some signs that indicate you should visit a mechanic right away:

Weird noises: the flag that your car might be giving you is if it’s making loud noises while idling. This could be due to many engine problems, and if left unchecked, it could lead to even more issues, such as power loss. If you notice anything strange going on with your car’s auditory output, bring it in for servicing soon because it may be costly or time-consuming to fix.
Shaking in your wheel: A steerage wheel shake may indicate a worn-out ball joint stud or tie rod. If you have a loose ball joint stud, you will sense the steering wheel shaking while making turns and driving on bumpy terrain. Also, if the continual up and movements down caused by the wheels going over uneven road surfaces have worn out your tie rod end, this too shall create shaking in your steering wheel when driving. Another source of shakes in your steering can come from damaged tires. This is something that needs to be fixed as soon as possible, so don’t hang about it – take yourself to see a mechanic immediately
Squeaking brake pad: Your brake system relies on brake pads to function correctly. You should replace your brake pads when they get too thin, typically every few months. Some signs you need new brakes are:
Squeaking sounds while driving down the road
Grinding noises coming from your brakes
Excessive vibration in your steering wheel when braking
A pulsating brake pedal that gets worse with each press

These signs warrant a brake inspection to see if your pads need to be replaced. You can also ask your mechanic how you can keep your brakes in good condition with regular inspections and routine maintenance, such as changing the brake fluid.

Strange smells from the engine: If you detect an unpleasant scent coming from your car’s engine, don’t hesitate to take it in for auto repair. If left untreated, the problem will only worsen and require costlier repairs down the line. Always trust your nose—odd smells emanating from your car are almost always indicative of a severe issue that should be addressed as soon as possible.

Your vehicle needs to be taken care of all the time to prevent any future problems. By taking it into the repair shop as soon as you notice something, the damage will hopefully be less severe and won’t cost as much money to fix.

If you are already experiencing any car trouble, bring it to Auto Precision Repair as soon as possible, and one of our experienced mechanics will be happy to assist

Avoiding Expensive Car Repairs

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