If you’re looking to protect your car from rust, corrosion, and rodents, Walt’s Auto and Electric is your trusted local shop for NHOil Undercoating services in Stroudsburg, PA.
Routine vehicle maintenance is extremely important to the life of your vehicle. Simply put, having your vehicle serviced regularly helps keep your car running longer and newer. By performing routine maintenance, you’ll prevent bigger car trouble down the road. Each vehicle manufacturer has a maintenance schedule around the specific makeup of your particular vehicle. This maintenance schedule can be found in your owner’s manual. By following the schedule, chances are your vehicle will deliver optimal performance as you rack up the miles, help your parts last longer and save you money on more expensive repairs. Vehicle maintenance issues can arise when you least expect it and all of us at Walt’s Auto want to ensure that you are informed and prepared to deal with any problems you may face. We’ve compiled a list of common vehicle maintenance questions to help you in the occurrence of any issues. How do I detect a burned out turn signal? The signal with blink faster than normal or it will fail to come on. If you notice your turn signal doing any of these two things, it is a warning that one of your turn signal bulbs is burned out. How do I know when it is time to replace my wiper blades? If you notice smearing, smudging, streaking, rubbing or scraping on your windshield then it is time to replace your wiper blades. Strange noises when your wipers swoosh or if you can’t see well when they go back and forth, are also signs it is time for a replacement. How can I tell if my car’s wheel alignment is off? Common signs that could indicate misalignment are uneven or rapid tire wear, vehicle pulling to the left or right, crooked steering wheel when driving straight, and squealing tires. What are signs that I need to get new tires? If your tire tread is less than 2/32 of an inch then it is time for new tires. Exposure to the elements and tire age can also be indicators that you should replace your tires. The longer each of those, the more likely you need to replace. What sounds, noises, and sensations indicate I need brake repairs? Screeching, grinding, squealing, rubbing and other piercing noises are common sounds associated with worn brake pads. Vibration and pulsing of the gas pedal or steering wheel are also signs your brake system is telling you something.
They say if you have to ask, you probably can’t afford it. That means tens of millions of Americans must be asking that question every year. According to a just-released study by travel-services giant AAA, the average auto repair bill comes to between $500 and $600 — and 1 in 3 motorists can’t pay it without incurring debt. Moreover, car owners are procrastinating on routine maintenance activities, which could lead to problems down the line that send repair costs even higher. A separate AAA study found that a third of U.S. drivers defer or neglect recommended service and repairs. Not only does this threaten to ratchet up repair costs later on, it also puts people at increased risk of a vehicle breakdown. “While it may seem that skipping maintenance and repairs can save money in the short term, staying on top of car care can save drivers hundreds of dollars in the long run,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. The average cost of owning and operating a vehicle, AAA said, is about $8,500 and includes monthly payments, insurance and gas. But the cost, for example, of a new timing belt on average is between $400 and $900, an alternator or starter replacement is $400 to $600, and brakes are around $500. Here’s what AAA recommends to keep your car — and your bank account — in good health: Set aside $50 a month for emergency auto repairs. Follow the automaker’s recommended maintenance schedule, which can be found in your owner’s manual or often online. Get cozy with a mechanic you trust before you find yourself in need of one. Get a written estimate for unanticipated repairs and confirm which repairs need to be done with the mechanic. Get a second opinion if you can. Take advantage of shop discounts or payment plans that help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and see if there’s room to negotiate those costs.