Why Car Repair Should Be Left To The Professionals

In today's society, DIY projects have become a necessity for many. This is also often applied to car repair. Some people think that because they have knowledge of cars and their working components, many of what they consider easy projects can be done in their home garage. However, a lot of these projects aren't nearly as easy as they may seem.

Clutch

Fixing a clutch. Simple enough, right? It seems to be. However, most people don't realize that fixing a clutch is more complicated and can be a delicate procedure. The biggest hurdle one would find is that many times it involves dropping the engine. This is not something that most can do in their garage.

Recharging the A/C

Every automotive store carries A/C recharging kits. If they do that, then it must be something a novice could do, right? Wrong. Not even counting the added complications of Freon, there is so much more to it. Working with the A/C system involves very high, specific pressure, specialized tubing, and odd components - most of these allusively buried in the dashboard or tied into an incomprehensible computer - not to mention many other things related to the first law of thermodynamics. If that word is not recognizable, you more than likely have no business even being in there.

Working around or on the airbag

Though thankfully this particular area rarely needs to be worked on or around, it is still a good idea to know what the possible outcomes could be. The most important thing to think about if working on or around this area - including any close by panels - is that there is a significantly sized explosive charge tucked away in there. Does 'explosive charge' sound a lot like a bomb? It should, because that is essentially what it is. Definitely make sure that someone with training in that particular area works on that part of your car. A hand being blown off isn't worth the extra money saved by doing it ones-self. It is guaranteed that the hospital bill for that would be significantly more expensive than just having a professional do it for you.

Rebuilding a differential

Anytime someone is messing around with gears it can lead to disaster. It takes a delicate, sensitive touch. Differentials are even trickier. If the gears are even slightly off, your car will sound like it has been taken over by a disgruntled poltergeist. Not to mention that in a very short time, the teeth will completely wear out and disintegrate. The contact patch between the gears has to be so carefully aligned that it is mathematically perfect.

Even the seemingly simplest of jobs are so involved that many times doing your own car repair can cost more than taking it to the shop. A car repair technician can do the job right the first time and save lots of time and energy.

For more information on car repair, Hershey, PA residents can go to http://www.certifiedpreownedofhershey.com/Body-Shop.

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Volvo Cars: Partner Spotlight with Microsoft HoloLens

At Volvo, we believe in cutting-edge technology that’s designed around people. That’s why we’ve partnered with Microsoft to bring our cars to life like never before, with Microsoft HoloLens. Watch the film to see how it will transform the way you interact with your Volvo.

8 Steps To Get Your Car Ready for Winter

Winter is coming, so now is a great time to bring your car in to prepare for the season's cold and rainy conditions. You want to be sure to keep your car safe and efficient, so you don't have to worry about driving during inclement weather. Whether you are driving to work or driving your kids to school, it's important to keep your car running in top shape all winter long. Schedule an appointment today with a trusted auto shop to make sure your car is ready to take on winter's icy temperatures and slick roads.

Here is a list of items to have check:

1. Tire Inspection - You want to check the tire pressure to ensure that it is at the right level for winter's lower temperatures. Cold temperatures can make your tire pressure drop, causing issues with the tire's stability. Properly inflated tires grip the road better, and can also offer greater protection against pot holes. Don't forget to check the pressure on your spare tire, too. Also take a look at the tread on your tires and if they are worn down, look into possibly getting new ones. Lastly, align and rotate the tires to prepare for slippery roads.


2. Battery - Test the battery's charge level, fluids, and cables to ensure that it will start on cold mornings. A weak battery may work fine in the summer, but will fail as the temperatures drop. You don't want to be stranded in the parking lot after work or a night out on the town due to a dead battery.


3. Brakes - Good brakes are essential when road conditions worsen due to rain, frost and colder temperatures. Get your brakes checked before winter hits and make sure to replace your car's brakes, pads or rotors if they have worn down. Good brakes are necessary for vehicle safety, don't put yourself or your passengers at risk. Be sure to hire a certified technician to perform a brake repair on your vehicle.


4. Wiper Blades - Examine your blades and replace them if they are worn or broken. Good wipers are essential during rain storms or to clear the early morning frost from your windshield.


5. Antifreeze - Check your antifreeze to make sure that your car's engine can withstand temperatures below freezing. Too much antifreeze is bad for your car, so let a professional check it out and recommend a safe level for your vehicle.


6. Washer fluid - Top off your washer fluid with a winter blend that won't freeze up overnight. Rain and muddy conditions can make it hard to see out of your windshield, so you need to make sure you have plenty of washer fluid in your car.


7. Headlights - It gets dark early in the winter, so it's important to have your headlights examined to make sure they are working properly. Check the bulbs, and alignment, as well as your high beams, and make sure that the lens covers are clean and clear.


8. Oil - Depending on the make and model of your car, you may need to switch to a winter oil that is less viscous. Heavier oils can thicken in cold weather, and may not provide adequate lubrication for your engine.

Want to get your car ready for winter? You can count on LMC Auto Repair to get the job done on time and within budget. The result? You and your family can drive off ready to take on whatever winter may bring. Call LMC Automotive & Collision Repair at 1-281-651-7766 to make an appointment today and get your car ready to go this winter. Located in Spring, Texas.

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Mercedes-Benz TV: Two World Premieres at L.A. Auto Show.

Mercedes-Benz Reporter Douglas Caballero presents two world premieres at the L.A. Auto Show, the new generation SL and the new GLS.

Give Your Brakes a Break!

Your brakes are without a doubt the most important safety feature on your vehicle. When they don't work, it puts lives in danger and your vehicle literally becomes a ticking time bomb. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics, there were 6,159,000 auto accidents reported in 2005. Of these, 2.7 million resulted in personal injuries and 43,443 fatalities. Mechanical failures (like bad brakes) are a factor in an estimated 12% to 13% of all auto accidents according to several available sources. Many of those are due to bad brakes because of a lack of proper vehicle maintenance, something that could have been prevented.

Properly functioning brakes take on the job of stopping your vehicle. When you step down on the brake pedal, your car transmits the force from your foot right to the brakes through a fluid - brake fluid. Of course, just your foot isn't enough force to stop the vehicle, so your car multiplies the force through both mechanical advantage, also known as leverage, and hydraulic force multiplication. The brakes work to transmit the force to your tires through the process of friction. The tires also use friction against the road. There is a little more to it than this, but it can be complicated to the average driver. Most cars actually utilize two or three systems of brakes. You can see a shiny metal disc when you look through the hubcap of your front tire. That is what is known as a disc brake. When you step on the brake pedal, a pad of hard-wearing material clamps onto the brake disc and rubs it to make it slow down-in a similar way to bicycle brakes. Other vehicles may have drum brakes on the back wheels which work with a show that pushes into the wheel and friction then slows you down. No matter what type of brakes you have on your vehicle, once you start accelerating and reach a decent speed, your car has loads of energy with it. When you start to stop, that very energy is converted into heat in your brake pads. Brakes can actually heat up to temperatures of 950 degrees Fahrenheit or more. This said, brakes must be comprised of materials that won't melt at these temperatures like alloys, ceramics or composites.

Without proper maintenance and repairs, many people don't know that they're driving on bad brakes. All too often, people learn only after it is too late and something significant has happened. At the first visible or audible sign of brake issues, it is recommended to get to a trusted auto repair shop. Knowing the signs and symptoms of brake problems will make you a more responsible driver. Signs of bad brakes may include but are not limited to a loud screeching noise, grinding, squealing, rubbing, vibrating, pulling, pulsating, reduced responsiveness, hard or soft brake pedal or the brake light appearing on your dashboard.

If it isn't what you hear or feel, you should check for brake wear by looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheel's spokes. The outside pad will be pressed against a metal rotor. There should be at least 1/4 inch of pad at all times. When less than 1/4 inch of pad remains, you need to have your brake pads inspected or replaced. A hydraulic system filled with brake fluid triggers a set of padded clamps known as calipers, causing them to squeeze together on a disc known as the rotor. The friction that occurs between the pads and rotor eventually stops the car. All components of a brake system are important.

Even if your rear brakes are the only ones in rough shape, it can still be dangerous. If you have to stop quickly, too much inertia could end up being deadly. You see, braking needs to be done in a balanced way, with about 70-80% of the energy being dissipated by the front brakes and sufficient remaining load on the rear tires to keep the rears under control and the car going straight. If you have no pads on the rears or less than the ¼ inch mentioned above, all of the energy has to be taken on by the fronts. If there isn't sufficient friction on the rear brakes for the rear tires to be grabbing the pavement to ensure proper control, your front brakes and your front tires will be doing more than their share of the work which becomes dangerous and potentially deadly.

There is no universal life expectancy for brakes, brake pads, brake rotors or other braking system components. Just like your own health, habits and maintenance can have a significant impact on how many miles you get out of them. There are, of course, some things that you can do to maintain healthier brakes over time. Experts recommend that you empty your trunk and don't overload your vehicle, don't ride the brakes and cause unnecessary friction, try to limit stop-and-go driving, cruise with the pace of traffic, ignore your aggressive driving habits and get your brakes checked annually. Although mechanical failures are involved in only a small percentage of all auto accidents, they still represent a risk factor. In some cases, drivers who caused an accident due to faulty brakes were convicted as negligent and were liable for damages as a result of a lawsuit. You don't want to be held accountable for something that could be prevented with proper maintain and routine checks, right? After all, the accidents that never happen are the best ones.

Good Works provides honest, professional auto repair services and stands behind every repair. Visit http://www.goodworksautorepair.com today for a complete list of services.

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Mercedes-Benz TV: The new GLS – Trailer.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS, the only full-fledged seven-seater in the European premium SUV segment, boasts ample spaciousness and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and also best-in-class safety. Whether put to everyday use or venturing off the beaten track – the GLS meets all requirements effortlessly and comfortably.

Preparing Your Car for Winter Driving

Preparing your car for winter is the best way to prepare yourself for the challenges of winter driving. From your car not wanting to start on a frigid morning, to lacking the traction you need to maintain control on the road, you can find yourself even more frustrated if you're not taking the extra steps to help you get your vehicle ready for the winter.

Tips for Preparing Your Car for Winter

There are several ways you can prepare according to the Car Care Council, a consumer education program that encourages car owners to "Be Car Care Aware."

1. Check your battery. Cold weather is not a friend of your battery, so make sure that you have your battery and charging system checked and ready to go before the temperature dips.
2. Make sure your cooling system is filled with antifreeze. Every two years, you should also have the system flushed out and refilled with new antifreeze.
3. Verify that your wiper blades work properly and are sharp enough to handle winter snow and slush. Make sure to have a jug of spare windshield washer solution in your trunk.
4. Test your heater and defroster to make sure that you will not be stranded on a cold day with no heat in your car, as well as fogged up windows.
5. Have your oil and filter changed according to manufacturer's recommendations. For winter, consider having winter weight oil added if you live in a particularly cold climate. The technician who changes your oil will usually check your air, fuel, and transmission filters to make sure they are working right.
6. If you need a tune up, have it done before winter to minimize sluggish performance, idling problems, and hard starts.
7. Check to make sure your brakes are in good condition and, if necessary, replace the pads. Ensuring good braking action is particularly necessary in the winter. Cars with ABS brakes require a different technique than other brake systems.
8. Have your technician take a look at your exhaust system to make sure it is stable and has no carbon monoxide leaks. Since you are more likely to garage your car in the winter, carbon monoxide can leak into the interior of your car. To prevent other deadly problems with exhaust, make sure that your garage doors open if you warm-up your car in the morning. Little known fact: Most modern cars do not need a warm up period to start driving.
9. Check the condition of your tires before winter to make sure that they have enough tread and that the pressure is right. If you are approaching the point where you should replace your tires, consider doing so before winter for easier driving. Throughout the winter, make sure to check the tire pressure. Depending on where you live, you might want to invest in snow tires with special treads to better maneuver slick roads. In checking your tire pressure, don't forget the spare.
10. Make sure that all interior and exterior lights work properly to warn other drivers of your presence, and for driving conditions when visibility can be difficult.

More Common Sense Precautions

Even after taking all these steps to prepare your car for winter, there are a few other actions you should take to prevent problems. Keeping your gas tank at least half full will reduce the chances of moisture accumulating in your gas lines and also make sure you have enough gas to make the trip in case of weather delays that keep you stranded on the road. To keep your windows clear, invest in a good ice paper and snow brush, and stock other emergency tools such as jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, flares, candles or matches, bottled water, medications, and food and drink to sustain you if you get stranded. You might even have a few extra pairs of socks in the glove compartment; if you put them out over your shoes, you can get better traction in the snow.

Jen Stott is a writer and blogger, and works as the Content Director at Be Locally SEO in Salt Lake City, Utah. Allow a mechanic to assist in preparing your car for winter with thorough testing.

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He Has Won Over 120 Races with a Modified BMW 3 Series. #BMWstories

In 2008, Gerry Nasution from Jakarta bought a BMW 316, second generation (E30). He modified the standard production car and tried to make a racing car out of it. With success: Until now, he has won over 120 races.

Brake Repair, Oil Changes, And Tire Pressure Are Part Of An Effective Auto Maintenance Routine

Buying a car is one of the most significant purchases people make, right after buying a home. While most cars manufactured in the last few years are built to run for 100,000 miles or more, they still require regular maintenance. They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that is especially true when it comes to your vehicle. Some routine maintenance can even be done yourself. Checking your tires, changing the oil, and occasional brake repair will help you avoid costly fixes. This will keep your car in safe working condition and on the road for as long as possible.

One of the simplest ways to ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition is to give it a quick once-over each month. Make sure that all the lights work, your tire pressure is adequate, and your windshield wipers are still doing a good job of clearing the windshield. You can also check to make sure that your tires have enough tread by using a penny. Turn the penny on its head and insert it into the tread's groove. If you can see all of the head, it is time to replace that tire. Paying attention to these small details will help make sure that your car is running efficiently and safely, and that minor maintenance issues can be handled relatively cheaply.

Taking care of your car's brakes is another important, but often overlooked, part of auto maintenance. Brakes are designed to last for a long time, but they do wear down slowly. As a result, many drivers do not realize that they are in need of repair until damage is sustained. Unfortunately, there is no rule of thumb governing when they should be replaced; it all depends on how much you drive each year, and the conditions in which you drive. You can avoid brake repair by having them looked at when you have your tires rotated. The mechanic can check the condition of your brake pads and other signs of wear. Otherwise, pay careful attention to screeching or grinding noises, or pulsating in the wheel or brake pedal when braking. These could be indications that your brakes are in need of attention.

Finally, regular oil changes are a must for any vehicle. However, there is some debate about how frequently your oil should be changed in cars manufactured over the past decade. The general rule is that you should bring your car in for an oil change every 3,000 miles, but you may be able to go 5,000 or 7,500 miles between oil changes depending on the conditions in which you drive. Regardless, changing the oil when needed helps your car run cleaner, and in conjunction with a regular maintenance routine, will help keep your car out of the shop.

To learn more about brake repair, Auburn, NY residents should visit http://harrystire.com/Home_Page.html.

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Jaguar C-X75 | Behind the Stunts in Spectre with Gary Powell

In the first of our exclusive behind the scenes interviews, watch as Spectre Stunt Co-ordinator Gary Powell talks about the power behind the Jaguar C-X75, and filming the chase through the night-time streets of Rome.