Monthly Archives: July 2012

DIY: Why Change the Cabin Filter?

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Many newer cars have a filter that is incorporated within the heater/air conditioner system, called a cabin air filter. This filter is often neglected and over time can become clogged with debris such as leaves, bugs and other contaminants.   As the filter becomes restricted it can obstruct air flow, which will affect the air conditioner performance and heater.Cabin Filter

As the organic material breaks down it will decompose; mold and bacteria can form, which is not a healthy environment for the driver or occupants, since the main purpose of the cabin air filter is to filter the air flow.  We have even seen cases where mice have made their temporary home within the cabin filter.

The cabin filter is usually located under the dash behind the glove box or in the engine compartment under the cowl area.  The cabin filter should be check at least once a year and replaced if there is debris found in the filter. Carefully remove the filter and clean out any leaves, twigs or other debris inside the filter box assembly. If you suspect mice have been in the cabin filter area, you should wear gloves to protect yourself from bacteria.

On some car models, it may be necessary to remove dashboard components to gain access to the cabin filter. In these cases, it may be better to have your service professional replace the filter. Also, special tools may be needed.

Another tip, keep the area under the hood where the wiper blades are, clean of any leaves. The leaves will eventually break down and find their way into the vent system. For cars without a cabin filter, keeping this are clean is crucial. Without a filter, leaves and other debris will find their way deep into the vent system and into the heater motor.

Need a tune up?
Call Joe and make an appointment today.

 

 

 

Don’t Leave Pets in Your Car in Hot Weather!

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A pet can be a great companion when traveling in your car. But please, don’t leave your pet in the car while parked, especially on hot summer days.  Despite repeated media warnings, each year pets are left inside hot vehicle, putting the animal at risk, even death.

Learn more about how to fight animal cruelty. http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/

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Even with the windows left open, the temperature inside the vehicle can rise very quickly, creating a potentially fatal condition for your pet.  A dog or a cat’s temperature is higher than humans and the temperature inside a car can rise to 150 degrees or higher in a matter of minutes. It doesn’t take long for heat to dilate blood vessels, shutdown organs and even clot blood.

Also, make sure your pet has enough water on hot days. If you are traveling somewhere that does not allow pets, it’s better to leave your pet at home.

Going on a summer vacation?  Get the care tuned up, make an appointment today. 

 

Watch Your Weight, its costing you big time!

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Every additional pound of weight in your car will require more energy from your car’s engine. That means more fuel being used.  Take a look in your trunk and back seat and remove anything that should not be there, unless it is absolutely necessary.

On average, there is a 2% fuel economy savings for every 100 pounds of extra weight.

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DON’T OVERLOAD YOU VEHICLE

Another thing to consider is ski racks, kayak racks, etc. These not only add weight to the car, but will also increase wind resistance, causing more fuel to be used.

Keep you car running smooth all summer, schedule your routine maintenance appointment today.

Extreme Summer Heat Can Cause Battery Failure

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Summer’s extreme heat canOsceolaGarage.com destroy a vehicle’s battery.  Car batteries should be tested periodically and replaced, if necessary, to avoid being stranded.  Excessive heat and overcharging shortens the life of a battery. Batteries fail as often in the extreme summer heat as during the cold winter months. If your battery is more than 4 years old, it may need to be replaced.

In additional to inspecting and testing your battery, the charging system should also be tested. The battery cables should be inspected for corrosion. Any corrosion should be cleaned.

When replacing the battery, follow all manufacturer guidelines and procedures. Also, install the correct battery that’s designed for your vehicle. Just because a battery fits in your car, it does not mean it’s the correct battery for your car.

After the battery is installed, retest the charging system to insure that the alternator and voltage regulator are working correctly. Battery and charging system specifications can be found in the factory manual. If you are not sure how to test the battery and/or charging system, your auto service professional will be glad to help.

Schedule a routine check up before you take that summer road trip.

Inspect Your Wiper Blades and Replace When Needed

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Wiper blades are often a neglected item and sometimes worn wiper blades are noticed too late, during a heavy rain storm.

DIY Tip: Inspect Your Wiper Blades Often and Replace When Needed

.A quality set of wiper blades should last a year or longer, but severe weather, ice, snow and salt can shorten the life.  Buy quality wipers blades.  Quality blades will last longer and perform better.

Wiper blade setups differ quite a bit from car to car. You may have to follow a few different steps according to your owner’s manual or instructions that come with a new set of blades. Here are a few tips:

  1. Lift the blades away from the windshield and remove the old blades. Some blades clip on the wiper arm, others just slide off.
  2. Pay attention to how the old blades connect to the metal arms.
  3. On some models, you’ll see a tab on the underside of the wiper. Push the tab to remove the old blade.
  4. Attach the new blades, be careful not to bend or twist the wiper arms or scratch the windshield. Make sure the new wiper blades are secure and tight.
  5. Always clean the windshield when you replace the wiper blades
  6. Check the washer fluid operation and level of washer fluid.
  7. Turn on the wiper blades to insure proper operation, and spray a little washer fluid on the windshield. Never operate wipers on a dry windshield.

Schedule your next regular routine maintenance appointment today.