Posted on 9/20/2021
With the cost of a new vehicle purchase averaging $37,000 more Americans are keeping their cars past 100,000, 150,000 and even 200,000 miles with many households delaying purchases on a new car or buying used cars. In order to improve the longevity of your older vehicle, you need to know how to take care of your older car and be proactive about routine maintenance. Here's a few simple reminders to avoid spending thousands of dollars on costly damage and repairs and keep your older vehicle running safely and reliably for many more years to come: CHANGE FLUIDS REGULARLY CHECK TIRE PRESSURE FREQUENTLY CHANGE OIL AND FILTER ROUTINELY REPLACE SPARK PLUGS MAKE SURE BATTERY IS IN GOOD SHAPE REPLACE WORN OUT PARTS WHEN NEEDED Getting your car serviced by a trusted, professional mechanic routinely can significantly reduce the risk of breakdowns, accidents and expensive repairs. Whether your car is older or new, our team of tale ... read more
Posted on 9/20/2021
As fall classes have started for our local college students in the South Bay if you own a car and need it to get to school or even a part time job, now is the time to take extra measures to ensure your car is in good condition for the season ahead. Here are some essential CAR CARE TIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS to avoid any unnecessary car trouble and running in tip top shape this semester: CHECK YOUR TIRES - check tire pressure at least once a month (don't forget to check tire tread for any damage before you hit the road) TOP OFF ALL FLUIDS - Including but not limited to engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid, and washer fluid INSPECT ALL YOUR LIGHTS - interior and exterior lights, replace any broken bulbs ASAP KEEP YOUR CAR BATTERY CHARGED - test your battery, especially if it's over 3-4 years old, there is a chance it may need to be re ... read more
Posted on 7/27/2021
National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month Tips to Safeguard Your Vehicle For most of us motor vehicles are our primary mode of transportation that we rely on a daily basis and the thought of your car disappearing can be very distressful. The most auto thefts occur in the summer so with July being "National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month" we want to help you protect your vehicle from theft, here are some tips to safeguard your vehicle: PARK IN WELL LIT AREAS PUT AWAY VALUABLES LOCK CARS AND WINDOWS DO NOT LEAVE KEYS IN CAR NEVER LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE WHILE IT'S RUNNING With California having the most motor vehicle thefts in the U.S.., it's a reminder that no car is immune to the risk of theft, even older or damaged vehicles are prone to theft as they can be dismantled and individual parts get sold. As you are already investing money and effort into your vehicle with repairs and tune ups, it only takes a few moments to secure your vehicle from the ... read more
Posted on 5/12/2021
Tax day deadline has been extended to May 17th here's a reminder if you own a business, or self employed (rideshare driver, freelance writer, for instance) you might qualify to deduct the cost of car repairs on your federal tax return. Here are some of the car repairs and routine maintenance you can deduct on your federal tax return (according to tax prep company H & R block) Oil changes Repairs, such as replacing a broken headlight or fixing faulty brakes Tune-ups New tires New air filters New windshield wipers In order to deduct these repairs good record keeping is important - keep track of your mileage (differentiating personal / business) with a mileage tracker (everlance, stride, mileage IQ) ... read more
Posted on 4/26/2021
April is National Car Care Month Get Your Car Ready for Spring and Summer Road Trips As winter comes to a close it's time for you to get your car ready for the upcoming warmer months. April is National Car Care Month and it's the perfect time to give your car some extra attention as you start taking road trips this Spring and Summer! Here are some things you can do to keep your car running at its best: Check the oil, filters and fluids (brake and transmission fluids, antifreeze, and windshield washer solvent) Have your vehicle’s brake system thoroughly examined every year (brake rotors and drums normally get checked at each oil change) Check Tire Pressure (Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, at least once a month) Check hoses and belts (look for any that are cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear) Make sure your vehicle battery connections are ... read more