Category Archives: Do-It-Yourself Helpful Maintenance Tips

Is Premium Octane Gas Better For My Car?

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Gasoline is rated by a measurement called octane. Octane is a measurement of fuel performance. The higher the octane, the more power can be achieved from the fuel. The engine in your car is designed for a specific octane rating. Cars that are designed for performance will typically required higher octane ratings, usually 90 or higher. Putting a lower rated octane in these vehicles may cause the engine to knock, which may eventually lead to engine damage. Most cars today run on regular grade octane, 87 to 89.

filling up at the gas stationSo, if regular grade octane is good, would a higher octane be better for my car? While a higher octane fuel will perform better for those engine specifically designed for the higher octane, there is no real benefit using a higher grade octane if your car was not designed to use it. Plus, higher octane gas cost more money. The engineers did their homework when they designed your car’s engine, fill up the tank with what the car was designed to use.

 

 

 

 

 

Prevent costly repairs with a maintenance package.

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Get ready for the harsh conditions of fall and winter by getting your car serviced with a maintenance package.  Get smart and prevent costly repairs down the road.  Your car will perform better, as well as substantially improve the resale value.


Now is the Best Time To Get Your Car Ready for Fall… 

Fall Maintenance Package:

  • Change oil & filter (up to 5 qts conventional oil)
  • Rotate tire and balance if needed
  • Test antifreeze, check hoses and belts
  • Test battery and charging system
  • Inspect tires, adjust air pressure
  • Add BG Engine Treatment and Fuel Cleaner to maximize engine performance and fuel economy.
  • Inspect air and cabin filters
  • Inspect brakes, steering and suspension
  • Top off under hood fluids
  • Check lights, inspect wiper blades

All for an Unbeatable $69.95

Schedule your appointment today, click here.

Give your car the good stuff for the next wash and wax.

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DIY … Treat Your Car to a Wash and Wax

Taking care of your car’s exterior will preserve the paint by removig road grime and other harmful debris that can damage the finish. A thorough cleaning will give you the chance for a close up inspection of your car. You can see chips and scratches and other areas of the body that may need attention.

DIY Car wash and wax

If something looks serious, you should consult a professional.

Spotting something early will save you money and time in the long run. To keep you car looking like new, apply a coat of wax a few times a year. And don’t forget the interior. Car’s that are maintained, look better longer and retain a higher resale value. Plus, it’s more fun to drive when you car is clean and shining.

For more money saving auto tips visit our website.

Headed back to college soon?

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Back To School.

Stay safe. Make sure your car is ready for the road.
It’s August and that means many of you will be headed
back to college soon.

Get your vehicle Road Worthy.Plan early and make sure your car is road worthy.
Have peace of mind.

Take advantage of our Back to School Promotion.

All for only $69.95.

  • Change oil and filter.
  • Inspect brakes, steering, suspension.
  • Inspect tires , adjust tire pressure.
  • Rotate tires and balance, if needed.
  • Inspect light & all fluid levels.
  • Top off under hood fluids at no charge.
  • Inspect air and cabin filters.
  • Test battery, heater & defrost.
  • Add BG Fuel Cleaner and BG Engine Treatment.

(most passenger cars, conventional oil, some restrictions apply)

Book your appointment today!

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.