dearholtauto.com
505.857.0868

dearholtauto.com
505.857.0868
This month in your Manager’s Minute I want to talk about Summer Travel and Batteries. As we get ready to celebrate our Independence, I want to remind everyone to have your vehicle checked. Summer travel can be unpredictable if your vehicle isn’t up to it. Summer heat can effect your car battery, AC performance, not to mention leading to your car over-heating.
The 4th of July is the official celebration of summer and a great time to take a road trip, so get your vehicle ready. We’re offering a Free Battery inspection. I recommend getting your car battery checked before you hit the road. Heat can cause damage to your battery and leave you stranded on the side of the road. This month, when you buy a new NAPA Battery, you can help the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. So come in and see us and get your car ready for summer travel.
When it comes to vehicle safety, your brake system is at the top of the list. Brakes are a normal wear item for any car & eventually they’re going to need to be replaced. For routine maintenance, check your vehicle’s braking system at least once a year. A thorough inspection should include brake lining wear, brake fluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses & brake lines, brake & dash warning lights, as well as taking the car for a test drive to detect other potential brake system problems.
If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should inspect your brakes. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel & squealing.
Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type & the quality of the brake lining material. Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repair, such as letting the brakes get to the “metal-to metal” point, which can be potentially dangerous & lead to a more costly repair bill.
“A properly operating brake system helps ensure safe vehicle operation & control under a variety of driving conditions,” said Rich White, Executive Director of the non-profit Car Care Council. “Motorists can put a stop to any potential brake system problems by recognizing the signs & symptoms that their brake system may need maintenance or repair.” The Car Care Council offers tools to help you learn more about auto care & brake repair.
You need to have your engine cooling system flushed occasionally to protect, de-scale and replace your coolant/anti-freeze. This is vital to maintaining quality engine cooling levels and protecting your vehicle from summer heat and winter cold. Over time and extreme temperature, your coolant begins to break down. It begins to leave deposits. If not maintained, the deposits can clog and restrict flow, may plug the radiator or heater core. An overheating event can destroy your engine, crack your head or block. These are expensive repairs that could be avoided with a simple preventative flush service.