Tag: Car Maintenance

How Are Your Shocks/Struts?

Shocks and struts take a beating, so we don’t have to! They help us ease the pain of driving over less than perfect roads and stabilize us over bumps, when we stop quickly, and when we go around corners. We pretty much take them for granted. Our owner’s manuals tell us they need to be inspected and/or replaced every 60,000 to 90,000 miles, depending on our driving habits. Many newer cars have computer-controlled electronic suspension systems that need inspection as well.

How Are Your Shocks And Struts

We recommend that you take some time when you are out driving around to notice a few things about your vehicle. If your car is bouncing a bit after you hit a bump in the road, nose-diving after you brake, swaying around corners, or has abnormal tire wear, then you need to have your shocks replaced.

Struts basically perform the same function as shocks, except they also are an integral part of your suspension system. If you are out and about in your car and notice the above symptoms, along with noise while going over bumps or turning corners, you might also have an alignment situation.

Other Notable Symptoms

Shocks and struts also give you another symptom if they are ready to be replaced… they leak fluid. They do a lot for us, and we certainly take them for granted until we notice our ride is just not as enjoyable or comfortable as it could be. Bad shocks and struts also cause wear and tear on our tires and our suspension components.

Make sure your shocks and struts are ready for whatever condition the roads you drive on happen to be in. Whatever your car may need, at Certified Auto Specialists, we want your vehicle to always be ready to go when you are!

Certified Auto Specialists: the friendlier and more helpful auto shop! Feel free to call 626-963-0814 with any questions, and we will be glad to help. Or visit our website at CertifiedAutoCa.com.

Hometown Service You Can Count On!

How to Have a Lean and Mean Driving Machine

How To Have a Lean And Mean Driving Machine

Cars are built better than ever these days and are engineered to give us miles of service. That’s why keeping them well-maintained is critical! To stay on top of this, you need a trusted partner on your side to look out for you and your car. Here are some of the essential areas that we check during regular maintenance to keep your car running right:

Oil

It’s your vehicle’s lifeblood.  Dirty oil makes it harder for your engine to turn over and causes premature engine wear. We’ll set you up on scheduled oil changes, ensuring that your car is ready to roll down the road when you are for years to come.

Belts and Hoses 

These are made of very durable material with relatively long lives but they do deteriorate over time. They need to be regularly inspected and replaced as needed so they don’t give out when it’s inconvenient or unsafe. We do everything we can to make sure you’re never stuck on the side of the road, waiting for a tow truck.

Leaks 

Other than condensation from your air conditioner, your car should never leak. Your car uses 11 different types of fluid, such as antifreeze, engine oil, power steering fluid, air conditioner refrigerant, shock absorber fluid, battery electrolyte, windshield washer solvent, rear axle or CV boot lubricant, fuel and others.  Are you seeing liquid under your car? You need to bring it in right away.  

Tires

Since Henry Ford’s Model A, tires are the only thing between us and the road, so it’s essential to keep them as healthy as possible. A simple, inexpensive preventative maintenance measure is to keep your tires properly inflated and rotate them regularly. You can prolong their lifespan and improve fuel economy, a win-win! 

Coolant 

If neglected for too long, old unchanged coolant can corrode, leaving sediment throughout your cooling system and causing clogs. This can result in hot spots that damage your engine.

Battery 

The battery cables must be securely attached and free of corrosion to get power to the starter and accessories so that the alternator receives a charge. When you come in for regular maintenance, we’ll check it out and make sure you’re getting all you can out of your battery.

Flushing

Think of it this way, when it comes to fluids, our cars’ needs are similar to the human body. We need to keep our systems flushed with water to keep our bodies running well. Your vehicle needs fluids to remain healthy. Over time, these fluids get contaminated and cause corrosion. Flushing these out and refilling them with clean, fresh fluid keeps your car safe and running smoothly. It rids the system of harmful toxins and lubricates at the same time. We’ll make sure the fluids in your vehicle keep your car running right for years to come!

When you need reliable, affordable maintenance to keep your car a lean, mean driving machine, come to the experts who’ve been the industry leaders in Glendora for decades. Go with the pros at Certified Automotive Specialists! Call 626-541-2149 or, better yet, make an appointment today!