June Manager’s Minute

Posted by Mechanic on June 2, 2023 with 0 Comment

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, we’re excited to get into summer. This time of year is perfect for family road trips and creating lasting memories. Our team at Dearholt AutoCare is committed to ensuring your vehicle is ready and safe for all your adventures.

With Father’s Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to hit the open road with your loved ones. Nothing has been more important over the years than raising my children and embarking on family adventures. And, Heaven knows I’ve seen every kind of road problem over the years. I even keep a special kit in my rig when I’m traveling of common things other people might need if they run into trouble. Staying on top of your vehicle maintenance is the first step.

We offer a range of services to guarantee your car is in great shape for your summer excursions.

Dearholt AutoCare’s Special Summer Services:

Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection
Oil Change and Fluid Top-Off
Tire Rotation and Alignment
Brake Check and Replacement
Air Conditioning Service and Repair
Battery Testing and Replacement

To show our appreciation for dads everywhere, we’re offering a Father’s Day Special on Coolant Flush and Fluid exchange, 10% OFF in June. Print or show us your coupon when booking your appointment on your next visit.

Booking your appointment is easy! You can either:
Call us at (505) 857-0868
Visit our website at https://dearholtauto.com/appointment-request/
Drop by our shop at 6401 Signal NE Albuquerque, NM 87113

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to ensure a hassle-free journey for you and your family. Choose Dearholt AutoCare for all your auto care needs, and let’s make this summer one to remember!

Happy travels,
Jim Dearholt & your Service Team at Dearholt AutoCare

Keep Your Car Running Cool with Dearholt AutoCare’s Radiator Maintenance Services

Posted by Mechanic on June 1, 2023 with 0 Comment

As car owners, we often focus on the engine, brakes, and tires, but one crucial component that keeps your vehicle running smoothly is the radiator. The radiator plays an essential role in maintaining the temperature of your engine, and a well-maintained radiator can save you from costly repairs down the line. At Dearholt AutoCare in Albuquerque, NM, we offer top-notch coolant flush services to keep your car’s cooling system in perfect condition.

The Importance of Radiator Maintenance

Your vehicle’s radiator ensures that your engine doesn’t overheat by dissipating heat generated during operation. Over time, solid deposits can accumulate in your radiator, leading to clogged pipes and lines within the cooling system. A quick radiator flush at Dearholt AutoCare can remove these deposits, allowing your cooling system to function efficiently.

Seasonal Antifreeze Change

Antifreeze is another vital component of your cooling system. It prevents the coolant from freezing in cold weather and helps maintain the optimal temperature for your engine. Regularly changing your antifreeze is essential, especially as seasons change. Our experienced auto technicians at Dearholt AutoCare can help you change your antifreeze, ensuring your vehicle stays protected against freezing temperatures.

Comprehensive Cooling System Diagnostics and Repairs

If you suspect that your cooling system has issues beyond a simple flush or antifreeze replacement, our team of automotive experts can diagnose the problem. We can perform a pressure test to determine if your radiator’s pressure is correct. If the pressure test reveals any issues, we will inspect your cooling system’s caps, hoses, and connections to identify any components that need to be replaced or repaired. At Dearholt AutoCare, we provide fair and honest quotes on parts and labor, so you know exactly what to expect.

Trust Dearholt AutoCare for Your Cooling System Needs

Whether you need a simple pressure test, a coolant flush, or a full radiator replacement, Dearholt AutoCare is your go-to destination for reliable cooling system services. Our team of experienced technicians is committed to keeping your car running cool and efficiently, so you can enjoy peace of mind on the road. Visit us today at our Albuquerque, NM location, and let us help you maintain your vehicle’s cooling system.

The Brake Breakdown – Your Guide to Brake Inspection and Maintenance

Posted by Mechanic on May 24, 2023 with 0 Comment

When it comes to your vehicle’s health, few things are as crucial as maintaining a reliable and efficient braking system. In this post, we’ll break down the importance of regular brake inspections, the components involved, warning signs of brake problems, and how these issues can be repaired. Let’s dive into “The Brake Breakdown”!

The Importance of Regular Brake Inspections Your brakes are one of the most critical safety features of your car. Regular brake inspections not only ensure the safety of you and your passengers but also help prevent costly repairs down the road. Experts recommend having your brakes checked at least once a year or following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Components Examined During a Brake Inspection During a brake inspection, a technician will examine several key components of your vehicle’s brake system, including:

Brake Pads: These help create friction to slow down or stop your car. Over time, they wear down and need replacement.
Calipers: These hold the brake pads against the rotors to create friction. They can become damaged or corroded over time.
Rotors: These metal discs work with the brake pads to slow down your vehicle. Warped or unevenly worn rotors can cause reduced braking performance.
Brake Lines: These transfer brake fluid from the master cylinder to the calipers. Damaged or leaking lines can lead to a loss of brake pressure.

Warning Signs of Brake Problems Here are some common warning signs that indicate a potential issue with your brakes:

Screeching or Squealing: This noise typically occurs when your brake pads have worn down and need replacement.
Grinding: A grinding sound may indicate worn-down brake pads or a damaged rotor.
Vibrations: If your brake pedal vibrates while braking, it could be due to a warped rotor or worn brake pads.
Reduced Brake Performance: If your car takes longer to stop than usual, it’s a clear sign that your brakes need attention.

Brake Component Wear and Repair Different brake components may experience wear and tear over time. Here’s how they’re commonly repaired:

Brake Pads: Worn-out brake pads are replaced with new ones to restore braking performance.
Calipers: If damaged or corroded, calipers may be rebuilt or replaced.
Rotors: Warped or unevenly worn rotors can be resurfaced or replaced, depending on the severity of the issue.
Brake Lines: Damaged or leaking brake lines should be replaced immediately to prevent loss of brake pressure.

Regular brake inspections are essential for your vehicle’s overall health and safety. By understanding the components involved, warning signs of brake problems, and repair methods, you can ensure a safe driving experience for yourself and your passengers. Trust Dearholt AutoCare for all your brake inspection and maintenance needs!

May Manager’s Minute

Posted by Mechanic on April 28, 2023 with 0 Comment

Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Vehicle

Spring is finally here, and with it comes Mother’s Day, a time to celebrate the special care and love that our mothers give to us. At Dearholt AutoCare, we believe that your vehicle also deserves a little extra care during this season. In honor of Mother’s Day and the arrival of spring, we’d like to share some maintenance tips to help you take care of your vehicle, so it can last for years to come.

Change Your Cabin Air Filter

Pro Tip: If you are prone to bad seasonal allergies, consider changing your cabin air filter more often. Especially before and after high pollen season.

Check Your Tires

As the temperatures start to rise, it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure and tread depth. Proper tire pressure can improve fuel efficiency and help prevent blowouts or flats. Additionally, when the tread is worn down, your tires won’t grip the road as well, which can be dangerous, especially in wet conditions.

Check Your Fluids

Springtime is an excellent opportunity to check your vehicle’s fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Top up any fluids if they’re low, and if necessary, schedule a fluid flush to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Get Your Battery Checked

Winter can be tough on your car’s battery, so it’s a good idea to have it checked in the spring. A faulty battery can lead to unexpected breakdowns, which no one wants. Get a battery test to help you ensure that your vehicle starts effortlessly each day.

Get Your Car Washed and Detailed

Your car deserves a little pampering, and it’s an excellent time to get your vehicle washed and detailed. A professional clean-up can help you identify minor issues that need attention, and it can also make your car look and smell great, boosting your mood and self-confidence.

Schedule a Spring Maintenance Check-Up Including Brakes

Let an experienced technician take care of your car’s springtime maintenance, you can schedule a spring check-up at Dearholt AutoCare. Our trained mechanics will examine your vehicle’s brakes, suspension, alignment, and more to ensure that it’s running at its best. This maintenance check-up will help you address any issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day and the arrival of spring, it’s essential to take care of those things we value, such as our vehicles. By following these spring maintenance tips outlined here, you can prolong your vehicle’s life, improve your safety on the road and ensure the comfort of your ride. At Dearholt AutoCare believe that your vehicle is worth the effort, and we’re always here to help you keep it in top condition, year after year. Happy springtime, and cheers to all the moms out there who inspire us to care for what we love!

Don't steal my cat (catalytic converter)

Why do they want my Cat?

Posted by Mechanic on January 31, 2023 with 0 Comment

Cat is short for Catalytic Converter

Not your Kitty Cat, your catalytic converterWith car theft on the rise, catalytic converter theft has become a major problem in Albuquerque. Catalytic converters are an essential part of a car’s exhaust system that helps reduce harmful emissions and improve fuel efficiency. However, thieves have been targeting them as an easy way to make money.

While it is still unclear what motivates these thefts, many experts believe it is because of the precious metals inside. The fact that thefts of catalytic converters remain relatively low-risk for the perpetrator also plays a role.

Unfortunately, this means that car owners in Albuquerque are often left with hefty repair costs. Replacing a stolen catalytic converter can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on the vehicle and labor costs. This price can be even higher if there is additional damage caused by the theft or if additional parts need to be replaced as well.

To lower your chances of becoming a victim of catalytic converter theft, be sure to park your car in secure locations and consider investing in security measures such as motion sensors or cameras to deter potential thieves. If you do become a victim, report it immediately and check with the insurance company for support.

If your vehicle is left with hanging parts or is inoperable, get it towed to your mechanic before trying to operate.

Cloudy Headlights?

Posted by Mechanic on January 3, 2023 with 0 Comment

Happy New Year Everyone,

We are excited to kick off 2023 with you, as you prepare for the thousands of miles ahead of you this year. We are happy to be your AutoCare Center and we want to keep you all informed about your vehicle maintenance, service and specials. As the car industry continue to be in flux, used cars are still pricey and the right new vehicles are hard to find. Right now, staying on top of maintenance and repairs on your existing vehicle is probably a lot more economical than buying at least for the majority of this year. And, according to AAA, “the average yearly cost to own and operate a new vehicle in 2022 is $10,728, or $894 per month.”

We are here for you to keep your vehicle running safely and reliably. Top tips for winter weather include, 1) Check your tire’s tread and pressure. Cold icy conditions are no time to need tires. Talk to us about a winter or all season tire that is right for your vehicle. 2) Our number one mechanical issue in cold weather is the dead battery. Ask us about our batteries, including the AAA battery available through NAPA. 3) Headlights, during the dark days of January, your headlights are vital equipment. Cloudy headlights can impede visibility by as much as 80%. Keep those dark nights at bay, ask us about headlights.

Thank you for your business,

Your AutoCare Team

NOW HIRING ASE Certified Automotive Technician

Posted by Mechanic on October 15, 2022 with 0 Comment

We are an expanding full-service NAPA AutoCare Center in need of a full time ASE Certified Automotive Technician. Dearholt AutoCare has been in business here in Albuquerque for 34 years and is a high-quality shop with long term great customers.

● Must be available 5 days/40 hours week

● We provide paid vacations, and paid time off.

● Must be able to diagnose and repair most brands of automobile and light trucks

● Clean well run shop.

● Immediate positions available

● Busy shop

Dearholt Auto Care LLC

6401 Signal NE

Albuquerque, NM 87113

Phone: 505-857-0868

Coolant Flush Basics

Posted by Mechanic on October 15, 2022 with 0 Comment

Coolant Flush

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.

Coolant is extracted.
Then your system is flushed with our proprietary solution to remove dirt, rust and build up.
Your system gets flushed of all the impurities and build up and fluids.
We replace with high quality coolant.

Brakes: Important Safety Equipment

Posted by Mechanic on June 13, 2022 with 0 Comment

YOUR VEHICLE’S MOST IMPORTANT SAFETY SYSTEM

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.

April – Manager’s Minute

Posted by Mechanic on April 2, 2022 with 0 Comment

Hey Everybody,

Spring is here and we are excited about it. I believe everyone knows me well enough to know that Easter is an important time of year to me. It marks the renewal of our spirit and the promise of our salvation. It’s a special time for us to reflect on the people in our lives, the things we have, and to care for those things. To be good stewards of the resources God gives us.

Of course, I’m a mechanic so that makes me think of taking care of vehicles. And taking care of your big investments, like cars and trucks is part of stewardship. Every year we see a job come through that could have been prevented with regular maintenance or an inspection. We just want to say to them, “if you would have gotten the oil changed, you would have know the oil was low and maybe that connecting-rod would not be on the outside of your engine block.” Earth Day is on the 22nd of April every year and it is about being good stewards of the planet. One of the number one ranked ways for reducing emissions and reducing fuel consumption, according to AAA, is regular maintenance and repair.

We welcome to our staff Harley Chatman, as our new front desk Customer Service Representative. More great news, Cheryl Montoya has been promoted to Service Advisor. Come in and meet Harley and congratulate Cheryl on her new position. We have recently brought on Nate Martinez and an additional Technician. We are thrilled to have these new employees on board, and having Cheryl taking on a new role in the company.

And it’s National Car Care Month, so we are offering our Annual VIP Car Care Club for 25% Off. Ask Harley for the details of everything that’s included in your membership.

We hope you enjoy the spring and have a wonderful Easter. We want to thank you for being our customer and welcome you into the shop anytime.

—Jim

Category: News and Events