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

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

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.

The Importance of Timely Exhaust System Repair

Your car’s exhaust system may not be the most glamorous part of your vehicle, but a properly functioning exhaust system is vital to the performance of your car. Unfortunately, exhaust system issues are incredibly common, and many drivers are unaware of the warning signs that their exhaust system may need to be repaired. We’ll outline why exhaust system repair is so important, some of the common signs of exhaust system issues, and what you can expect from a reputable auto repair shop.

First and foremost, a properly functioning exhaust system is vital to the performance of your vehicle. The exhaust system plays a key role in managing the flow of gases through your engine, and a damaged or malfunctioning exhaust system can negatively impact your vehicle’s acceleration, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.

In addition to the impact on vehicle performance, there are also safety concerns associated with a damaged exhaust system. A leak in your exhaust system can allow carbon monoxide to enter the cabin of your vehicle, which can be incredibly dangerous. In fact, carbon monoxide is a silent killer that claims the lives of hundreds of people every year in the United States alone.

There are several warning signs that may indicate that your exhaust system is in need of repair. These include rattling or hissing sounds coming from your exhaust system, the smell of exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, decreased fuel efficiency, and a decrease in overall vehicle performance. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to take your vehicle to a reputable auto repair shop as soon as possible.

When you bring your vehicle in for exhaust system repair, a reputable auto repair shop will conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle to determine the cause of the issue. This inspection may involve the use of specialized diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Once the cause of the issue has been determined, the repair technician will work to repair or replace the damaged components of your exhaust system.

In conclusion, exhaust system repair is an important aspect of vehicle maintenance that should not be overlooked. A properly functioning exhaust system is vital to the performance and safety of your vehicle, and it’s important to pay attention to the warning signs that may indicate an issue with your exhaust system. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to take your vehicle to a reputable auto repair shop for inspection and repair. By taking proactive steps to address any exhaust system issues, you can help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely for years to come.

Everything You Need to Know about Catalytic Converter Maintenance

The catalytic converter is an integral part of a car’s exhaust system. It reduces emissions and improves fuel economy, making it essential for keeping your vehicle running efficiently and effectively. But, like all car parts, the catalytic converter needs regular maintenance. So here’s everything you need to know about catalytic converter inspection, repair, and service.

Inspecting Your Catalytic Converter

The first step in maintaining your catalytic converter is performing an inspection. This involves examining the parts that make up the exhaust system. If you notice any problems, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the catalytic converter. A professional mechanic can inspect your exhaust system and let you know if it needs repair or replacement.

Repairing Your Catalytic Converter

If your inspection reveals any issues with your catalytic converter, you may need to have it repaired or replaced. Repairing a catalytic converter is less expensive than replacing it but may only be an option depending on the severity of the damage. Replacing a catalytic converter can be costly but is sometimes necessary if significant damage cannot be repaired.

Servicing Your Catalytic Converter

In addition to inspecting and repairing your catalytic converter when needed, it’s also essential to perform regular maintenance services on it as well. These services include regularly changing the oil and filter, using higher-quality gasoline where possible, and avoiding long trips at low speeds, which can cause excessive wear on the catalyst material in the converter itself. Following these steps will help keep your vehicle running smoothly while also helping protect its overall performance over time.

Maintaining your car’s catalytic converter is essential for ensuring its optimal performance and helping extend its life span over time. Regular inspections are key for catching any potential issues early on before they become more serious (and costly) problems down the line. Additionally, following good maintenance practices, such as changing oil frequently and avoiding long trips at low speeds, can help protect your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy in the long run! Taking care of your car’s catalytic converter will save you time and money!

« Older Entries

Next Entries »