Need Help?
(770) 951-8055

Why a Pre-purchase Inspection is Essential for Your Next Used Car

Why a Pre-purchase Inspection is Essential for Your Next Used Car

Why a Pre-purchase Inspection is Essential for Your Next Used Car

You’ve found your dream car! It’s got all the features you were looking for, and it’s within your budget. But, before you sign on the dotted line to buy that used car, it’s important to get an inspection done. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is an essential step you should take in the car buying process. The PPI can give you a clear idea of the car’s condition, any potential problems it might have, and estimate repair costs.

Peace of Mind

A PPI is the best way to determine if a car is worth its asking price. It’s an excellent tool to uncover any significant issues that may cost you a lot of money in the long run. With a PPI, you’ll know if the car has any outstanding repairs, oil leaks, brake issues, or electrical problems before you buy it. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road with a faulty car. A PPI can provide that peace of mind you need.

Price Negotiation

A PPI can be an excellent tool to negotiate a fair price for a car. After the inspection, you can discuss the results with the seller, and if significant repairs are required, you can negotiate to either, lower the asking price, or cover the cost of repairs. Not all repairs may be a deal breaker, but it’s essential to know about them and what it will cost to get the car into good condition.

Avoid Hidden Damage

Sometimes, a car may look great on the outside, but it has hidden damage on the inside. A PPI can look beyond the cosmetics of the car to reveal any potential issues. The inspection can assess the car’s engine, transmission, and all the other mechanical components. A PPI will give you insight into the car’s condition, it’s past, and any potential problems it might have down the road.

A pre-purchase inspection may seem like an inconvenience, but it’s worth the time and effort. It can save you from purchasing a car with significant issues, help you negotiate a fair price, and provide the information you need to make an informed decision. A PPI can provide peace of mind, help you avoid hidden damage, and ensure that you’re buying a car that’s both safe and reliable. So, before you buy that used car, take the time to get a PPI. You’ll be glad you did!

Filters and Fluids: Essential Maintenance for Your Vehicle’s Longevity

Filters and Fluids: Essential Maintenance for Your Vehicle’s Longevity

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and extending its lifespan. When it comes to auto repair and maintenance, paying attention to your oil, filters, and fluids is crucial. Filters help keep harmful contaminants out of your engine and cabin, while fluids ensure proper lubrication, cooling, and functionality of various components. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of filters and fluids in auto repair maintenance, their role in vehicle performance, and essential tips to keep them in optimal condition.

Engine Air Filter

The engine air filter plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your vehicle’s engine. It prevents dirt, dust, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine, ensuring clean air for combustion. Over time, the air filter becomes clogged, restricting airflow and reducing engine efficiency.

A dirty air filter can lead to decreased fuel economy, reduced power output, and even engine damage. Regularly inspecting and replacing the engine air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations prevents the need for further engine service. 

Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters your vehicle’s interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It traps dust, pollen, pollutants, and other airborne particles, ensuring clean air for you and your passengers. A dirty cabin air filter can lead to unpleasant odors, reduced HVAC performance, and increased allergy symptoms. It’s important to check and replace the cabin air filter regularly to maintain good air quality inside your vehicle.

Engine Oil

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps dissipate heat generated during combustion. Over time, engine oil degrades, losing its lubricating properties and becoming contaminated with dirt and debris. Regular oil changes are crucial to maintaining engine health and preventing premature wear and damage. Consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended oil change intervals and use the proper oil viscosity grade for your engine.

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid serves as both a lubricant and a hydraulic fluid in automatic transmissions. It helps facilitate smooth gear shifts, reduces friction and heat, and protects internal components from wear. Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become contaminated, leading to rough shifting, slipping gears, and transmission damage. Regularly checking and changing the transmission fluid according to the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential for ensuring a properly functioning transmission.

Coolant/Antifreeze

The coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating. It circulates through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat and dissipating it through the radiator. Over time, coolant can become contaminated or lose its effectiveness, putting your engine at risk of overheating. Regularly checking coolant levels and flushing the cooling system at recommended intervals can help prevent engine overheating and costly repairs.

Other Essential Fluids

In addition to engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, several other fluids require regular attention:

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. Regularly checking brake fluid levels and replacing it prevents the need to repair or replace your brakes.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid facilitates smooth and easy steering. Checking the power steering fluid level regularly and topping it up when needed ensures responsive and effortless steering.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Windshield washer fluid keeps your windshield clean for better visibility. Regularly topping up the washer fluid reservoir prevents running out during critical moments.

Keep Up With Your Filter and Fluid Maintenance 

Proper maintenance of filters and fluids is essential for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and maximizing its longevity. Regularly inspecting and replacing engine air filters, cabin air filters, engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and other fluids will help ensure optimal performance and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner manual for specific maintenance intervals and recommendations. If you’re unsure about the maintenance requirements or need assistance, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic or service professional.

By staying proactive and attentive to the condition of your filters and fluids, you’ll not only enhance your driving experience but also contribute to the long-term health and reliability of your vehicle. Taking the time to perform these essential maintenance tasks will keep your car operating at its best, providing you with peace of mind on the road.

So, prioritize filters and fluids in your regular auto repair maintenance routine and enjoy a smoother, more efficient, and reliable driving experience for years to come!

Preventative Maintenance for Your Fleet of Box Trucks or Shuttle Buses

Preventative Maintenance for Your Fleet of Box Trucks or Shuttle Buses

Preventative Maintenance for Your Fleet of Box Trucks or Shuttle Buses

Fleet maintenance can be tricky if you’re operating on a tight budget, but the importance of it for your buses and trucks cannot be overstated. Advantage Auto Service can help, because we believe the safety of your fleet rides, literally and figuratively, on how well it is maintained. Let’s talk about preventative maintenance for your fleet and how ignoring the services can put you and your company at risk.

Saving Money From the Start

Preventative maintenance costs less than repairs; this is the bottom line. The more you put off the maintenance services required for your fleet the more chances they will break down. Once they have broken down, you not only have to pay for the repairs to get them back on the road but you also lose the money they make while they’re on the road. It just doesn’t make sense to lose this income.

Yes, maintenance services cost money, but when you take into account the difference between the cost of regular oil changes and the cost of rebuilding a damaged engine, spending the money on the oil changes now makes more sense. Even replacing the brake pads costs less than replacing the brake pads and the rotors the worn brake pads damaged. Spending money now saves you money later.

Reliability and Safety

Another consideration is your vehicle’s reliability and safety. Take into account how much your customers rely on your box trucks to deliver their packages. What about your passengers who rely on your shuttle service? If the vehicles break down constantly, your customers will find other more reliable transportation companies. Your vehicles need to be reliable in today’s instant gratification society.

They also need to be safe, and they cannot be safe if they aren’t being maintained. Accidents can cost your company dearly, especially if the accident was caused by your vehicle’s failure. Your drivers could be injured as could your passengers in the shuttle buses. This can cost you dearly in insurance costs and settlement payouts. Safety should be a priority in both your box trucks and shuttle buses. 

Plus, safe vehicles boost your drivers’ and passengers’ confidence in your company. Happy drivers mean dedicated drivers who will be willing to go above and beyond for you and your business. Happy customers mean loyal customers who will also boast about your business’ services to your family and friends. You can’t beat word-of-mouth marketing. Period.

Advantage Auto Service in Atlanta, GA, offers fleet maintenance and repair services for box trucks and shuttle buses. Call us today to discuss your fleet maintenance needs. Our number is 770-268-2892.

 

Signs My SUV’s Brakes Are Overheating

Signs My SUV’s Brakes Are Overheating

Signs My SUV’s Brakes Are Overheating

If you suspect that your SUV’s brakes are overheating, pull over right away and call for a tow truck. When the brake system overheats, it may become difficult if not impossible to stop your SUV. We will explain more below. It is better to be safe than sorry. Have your SUV towed to our auto service shop so we can inspect the brakes to determine the reason why they are overheating. We will provide you with a detailed estimate of the necessary repairs for your approval.

Constant Squealing Noises

One sign that the brakes on your SUV are overheating is a constant squealing noise. You will hear this noise every time you apply the brakes. The reason why the brakes are squealing is that the brake pads and rotors have glazed. What this means is that their surfaces have become smooth. When this happens, they not only make a squealing noise but are also unable to generate friction. The brake system in your SUV needs this friction to convert it to kinetic energy. It is this kinetic energy that slows down and stops your SUV. This is one reason why overheated brakes can fail.

Noticeable Burning Odors

Another reason why the brakes may fail is that the brake fluid will start to boil in the brake system. This creates air bubbles that can cause your brake pedal to sink all the way to the floor. The boiling brake fluid will smell like burning chemicals. Unfortunately, this, too, means that you might not be able to stop your SUV. If you smell burning chemicals and the brakes are squealing, the brake system is definitely overheating. Pull over and have your SUV towed to our shop.

Another odor you may detect is the odor of burning carpets. This is an odor that the brake pads release once they have glazed. This, too, points to a hot brake system. Find a safe place to park the SUV and allow the brake system to cool. If the brake system overheats when you start driving again, definitely have the SUV towed to our shop. The brake system is going to overheat every time that you tried to use it. If you keep driving, you may lose the brake system.

We are here to help, so call us today for brake repair services if your brakes are overheating. We know we’ve said it a few times, but, again, it’s better to have your SUV towed to our shop than to drive it. We do not want you to get into an automobile accident.

 

Understanding Alternator Repair: A Vital Service for Your Vehicle

Understanding Alternator Repair: A Vital Service for Your Vehicle

Understanding Alternator Repair: A Vital Service for Your Vehicle

The alternator plays a crucial role in your vehicle’s electrical system, ensuring the proper functioning of various components. However, like any other mechanical part, alternators can experience issues over time. In this article, we will explore the importance of alternator repair, common signs of a failing alternator, and the benefits of seeking professional assistance from our reputable auto repair shop.

Importance of Alternator Repair

The alternator is responsible for generating electrical power to recharge the battery and supply electricity to the vehicle’s electrical systems. It plays a crucial role in powering essential components such as the headlights, air conditioning, radio, and more. When your alternator malfunctions, it can result in a variety of electrical problems, ranging from dim lights to complete battery drain. Timely alternator repair is vital to ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle’s electrical systems and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Signs of a Failing Alternator

Recognizing the signs of a failing alternator can help you address the issue before it worsens. Look out for warning signs such as dimming headlights, an illuminated battery warning light on the dashboard, frequent battery replacements, or difficulty starting your vehicle. Strange noises, such as grinding or whining, can also indicate alternator problems. Additionally, if you notice electrical issues like flickering lights or erratic power windows, it is crucial to have your alternator inspected by a qualified technician.

Benefits of Professional Alternator Repair

When it comes to alternator repair, relying on professional auto repair services is highly recommended. Professional technicians have the necessary expertise and diagnostic tools to accurately assess the condition of your alternator. They can identify the root cause of the problem and provide reliable solutions. Attempting DIY alternator repairs can be challenging and may lead to further damage or incorrect installations. By entrusting your alternator repair to our experienced technicians, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in capable hands, and the issue will be resolved effectively.

 

Your vehicle’s alternator is a critical component that ensures a steady supply of electrical power for various systems. If you notice any signs of alternator trouble, don’t delay seeking professional assistance. Contact our trusted auto repair shop today to schedule an alternator inspection and repair service, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for your vehicle.