Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept credit cards?
How do I find a good repair shop?
What should I do if the service was not what I expected?
How should I get my vehicle ready for winter?
How should I get my vehicle ready for summer?

Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we accept the following credit cards: VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover.

How do I find a good repair shop?
Here are some tips from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) on finding a good repair establishment:

Start looking for a repair facility before you need one.
Ask friends and associates for recommendations and consult local consumer organizations.
Arrange in advance for alternate transportation so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location.
Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot that match the value of your own, as well as modern equipment in service bays.
Look for courteous staff
Look for policies regarding labor rates, diagnostic fees, guarantees, acceptable methods of payment, etc.
Ask if the repair facility specializes in, or usually handles, your type of repair work.
Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and certification by ASE.

Once you choose a repair shop, start off with a minor job; if you are pleased, trust them with more complicated repairs later.

What should I do if the service was not what I expected?
If the service was not what you expected, discuss the problem with the service manager or owner. Give the local business a chance to resolve the problem. Reputed shops always value customer feedback, and will make a sincere effort to keep your business by resolving your problem.

How should I get my vehicle ready for winter?
Mechanical failures can be deadly in winter. Preventive maintenance is therefore a must. Moreover, a well-maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, lasts longer, and commands a higher resale price.

Here are some tips from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE):

Engine Performance - Get engine problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather worsens existing problems. Replace dirty filters-air, fuel, etc.
Fuel - Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. A full gas tank helps keep moisture from forming.
Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified—more often (every 3,000 miles) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.
Cooling Systems - Should be completely flushed and refilled every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.)
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled!
The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
Windshield Wipers - Replace old blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent-you'll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.
Heater/Defroster - The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should be replaced periodically. Check your owner's manual for the location and replacement interval.
Battery - The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Exhaust System - Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
Tires - Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
Carry emergency gear: gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, and a flash light. Put a few "high-energy" snacks in your glove box.

How should I get my vehicle ready for summer?
Summer heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic are bound to take their toll on your vehicle. Add to that the effects of last winter, and you could be headed for a breakdown. However, with periodic maintenance you can lessen the odds - and command a higher resale price, too.

Here are some tips from National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE):

Air Conditioning - A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have it examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.
Cooling System - The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual-more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.
Engine Performance - Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended-more often in dusty conditions. Get engine problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good shop.
Windshield Wipers - A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
Tires - Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; check them while they're cold before driving for any distance. Don't forget to check your spare tire and be sure that the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
Brakes - Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.
Battery - Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies - Carry some basic tools-ask a technician for suggestions. Also include a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight. Consider buying a cell phone.