Posted on 10/31/2011
Some more good tips from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence:Engine Performance-Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters-air, fuel, PCV, etc. A poorly running engine is less efficient and burns more gasoline. Fuel-Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing …in the fuel line. Note, too, that a gas tank that's kept filled helps prevent moisture from forming. Oil-Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual-more often if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. A poll of ASE Master Auto Technicians revealed that re ... read more
Posted on 10/27/2011
Here is some excellent advice from the National institute for Automotive Service Excellence. It's foolhardy to head out in a poorly maintained vehicle in the dead of winter, of course, but even vehicle owners in temperate zones need to consider a fall car-care check, note the pros with the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), an independent group that tests and certifies the competence of auto technicians. "Regular, routine maintenance can help improve your gasoline mileage, reduce pollution, and catch minor problems before they become big headaches," says Martin Lawson, ASE's editorial director. The following tips ASE will give you a road map to fall car care. First things first-Read your owner's manual and f ... read more
Posted on 10/21/2011
Here are some interesting facts about cars - thanks to Chevron. The car is one of the most recognizeable inventions of the modern era. Without cars there would be no suburbs, car trips, endless drop-offs and pick-ups most parents are all to familiar with. Here are some fun facts about cars and their colorful past. The first cars did not have steering wheels. Drivers steered with a lever. The New York City Police Department used bicycles to pursue speeding motorists in 1898. The first speeding ticket was issued in 1902. In 1916, 55 percent of the cars in the world were Model T Fords, a record that has never been beaten. The first gas gauge appeared in cars in 1922. In 1923, 173 new inventions by women for cars had been reported. Among these inventions were a carburetor and an electric engine starter. The first car radio was invented in 1929. Buick introduced the first el ... read more
Posted on 10/18/2011
Prepare your car for winter. Remember that we can prepare any car in Boise for winter driving conditions! Don't get stuck in the snow! Don't get stuck in the snow! Start with a checkup that includes: Checking the ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses and fan belts. Changing and adjusting the spark plugs. Checking the air, fuel and emission filters, and the PCV valve. Inspecting the distributor. Checking the battery. Checking the tires for air, sidewall wear and tread depth. Checking antifreeze levels and the freeze line. Your car should have a tune-up (check the owner’s manual for the recommended interval) to ensure better gas mileage, quicker starts and faster response on pick-up and passing power. THINGS TO CARRY IN YOUR CAR An emergency situation on the road can arise at any time and you must be prepared. In addition to making sure you have the tune-up, a full tank of gas, and fresh anti-freeze, you should carry the following items in your trunk: Properl ... read more