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Signs Your Auto Transmission Needs Changing

Lafayette German Car Repair
admin2020-08-15

It’s important to stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance for a number of reasons. And, part of this care is recognizing the signs that something is wrong. For instance, how can you tell if your auto transmission is on the verge of a breakdown? Of course, no one likes to wait on the side of the road for assistance. Protect yourself from these mishaps and save money by learning the signs your auto transmission needs repair work.

Trouble with Gears

The alarm bells should ring if your vehicle develops issues switching gears, or if the gears sometimes slip in or out of position while driving. This problem can lead to dangerous situations, so it’s important to immediately address the issue.

Leaking Auto Transmission Fluid

Are you noticing a wet spot under your car after it’s been parked for a while? This can indicate an issue with your auto transmission. Transmission fluid has a red color and emits a sweet odor. A mechanic first needs to determine the cause of the leak, then replace or repair the broken part, and finally, refill your transmission fluid to the appropriate level.

A Grinding Sound

If you drive a manual and your car produces a grinding sound when switching gears, you probably have a worn-out clutch. In cars with an automatic transmission, you can recognize this problem by a shaking feeling when switching from one gear to the next.

A Burning Smell

Also, if you smell something burning when you get out of the car, it could very well be an auto transmission problem. The transmission fluid might be burning, or the gears could be overheated from too much friction. In any case, it’s a good time to call your auto repair shop.

On the Road Again

Since 1996, Lafayette German Car Repair has offered high-quality car repair services. If you’re in the Lafayette area, our specialized technicians are ASE certified and ready to help with all of your car maintenance and repair needs. Contact us at (925) 284-3390 and return to the road with the confidence we offer a warranty of 24,000 miles or a 24-month guarantee on parts and service.

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Difference Between Conventional and Synthetic Oil

Lafayette Car Repair
admin2020-07-15

If you need to change the oil in your German car, you might be wondering whether you should choose natural or synthetic oil. While the answer to that question depends on your vehicle and budget, synthetic oil is generally recommended. Let’s look at the differences between the two if you need an oil change for a German car.

1. Engine Sludge

Conventional oil breaks down more quickly than synthetic oil, meaning it probably won’t last as long. One reason for this is that synthetic oil products tend to have fewer impurities than conventional oil. This helps to prevent the oil from becoming gummy and solidified.

Solidified oil is often called “engine sludge. This sludge is completely ineffective when it comes to lubricating an engine. In fact, it can even clog up the oil lines in a vehicle, which could mean needing to have them cleaned during the oil change for a German car.

2. Synthetic Oil Lasts Longer

In many cases, you will be able to drive 10,000-15,000 miles between oil changes if you use synthetic oil. If you choose conventional oil, it’s likely that you’ll need an oil change every 7,500 miles or so. Although older cars are likely to need an oil change every 3,000 miles with conventional oil, you may be able to get your oil changed every 5,000 miles when you opt for a synthetic product instead.

3. Is Synthetic Oil Better for Your Engine?

Synthetic oil tends to reduce friction more effectively than conventional oil so your engine stays healthier. This reduction in friction could even help parts of your engine to last longer.

4. Synthetic Oils Reduce Pollution

Not only can switching to synthetic oil reduce emissions, but it can also improve your fuel economy. As a result, you can save money while you play a part in saving the planet.

Oil Change for a German Car

Not only do we offer low prices on oil changes, but we’ll get your car out of the shop as quickly as possible. Ask about our latest deals when you give us a call at (925) 284-3390. Or, just stop by our shop today!

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What Maintenance is Needed for ABS Brakes?

Walnut Creek Car Repair
admin2020-06-15

ABS, also known as anti-lock brakes, are a safety feature in modern trucks, cars, and motorcycles. They electronically control brakes to enhance traction and stopping distances, so your wheels don’t lock up on potentially slippery surfaces.

Although ABS brake systems are durable, they aren’t indestructible. They need proper care and maintenance to increase their longevity and minimize brake repair. For example, faulty ABS brakes can’t function properly since there’s no communication between the electronic control, brakes, and sensors.

Furthermore, ignoring ABS brake trouble can take you off the road for an extended period of time, and can be dangerous, requiring brake repair.

So, what maintenance is needed for ABS brakes to ensure they last for the long haul?

Keep Your Car’s Brakes Clean

Keeping your brake system clean allows the brake fluid to run through and against the brakes properly. This way, it ensures your ABS operates when needed. You can keep your brakes clean by spraying them with a hose to wash off excess dirt and dust.

Replace Your Brake Fluid Regularly

Changing your brake fluid regularly ensures that your anti-lock brakes work efficiently. For instance, when your brake fluid is dirty or contaminated, it changes how your brake system functions, causing your wheels to lock up. Therefore, it’s wise to replace old brake fluid during scheduled maintenance appointments, depending on its mileage.

Additionally, ignoring your brake fluid replacement can damage your master’s cylinder, callipers, and brake linings, which are expensive to repair.

Schedule Maintenance

All ABS brake systems have an interval of mileage or time for how often you should schedule a maintenance service. You can check your manufacturer’s manual to know this interval so that you never miss a service.

Scheduling regular maintenance for your anti-lock brakes reduces the risk that they’ll malfunction. It also allows you to identify and fix brake issues early, saving you money in brake repair or replacement costs in the long run.

Have the Speed Sensor Calibrated

ABS speed sensors can become misaligned over time, requiring calibration. But, to calibrate your speed sensors, you’ll need an experienced brake service specialist to reset your speed sensors correctly.

Brake Repair and Maintenance

Following your factory-scheduled maintenance ensures that old parts are replaced before they become a problem. But when your anti-lock brakes aren’t responding as quickly as they used to, it’s time to schedule brake repair services. If you’re in the Lafayette area, schedule with us at (925) 284-3390, or check out our specials online.

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Easy Ways to Maintain Your Car During the Pandemic

Vehicle Maintenance
admin2020-05-15

Most of us are driving less during the shelter-in-place order, which means our cars aren’t being used for days or weeks at a time. While this might seem like a good thing because you aren’t putting miles on your vehicle, cars were made to be driven.

In fact, a lot can go wrong if they’re parked for too long. So, here are some tips from your friendly Pleasant Hill German car repair shop. Let’s keep both your wheels and your wallet happy until it’s safe to get back on the open road!

Go For a Spin

Even though we’re social distancing right now, it’s okay to take your vehicle for a quick spin around the block. Plus, it’s probably good for your mental health too.

All the mechanical components in your car suffer if you don’t drive it on a semi-regular basis. Every couple of weeks should be fine. This will keep your battery charged and the engine lubricated. It’s important that the various fluids in your car circulate through all its moving parts so they function properly.

Repark Your Car

When a car isn’t driven, its tires develop flat spots where they meet the road. This is due to the tremendous weight they bear. Also, tires are already prone to losing pressure, which can increase the damage. It’s a good idea to repark your car, even if it’s just a few feet away.

And one more thing… Be mindful of where you park too. For instance, avoid that oak tree that might drip sap all over your car’s paint job.

Do You Need a Fuel Stabilizer?

Since your car isn’t going into long-term storage, we don’t recommend a fuel stabilizer. You don’t need to drain the fuel tank, either. Your trips around the neighborhood should be sufficient.

Skip the Parking Brake

If you don’t plan on driving for weeks, it’s best not to use the parking brake on flat surfaces, especially if you live in a damp climate. This is because corrosion can occur, fusing things together and making it difficult to disengage the brake when you’re finally ready to start driving again.

Pleasant Hill German Car Repair

Hopefully, life will be back to normal soon. But in the meantime, if you have any further questions or concerns about leaving your car in park for an extended length of time, please contact us at (925) 284-3390. Stay safe out there!

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How to Repair Your Audi Brakes

Audi Repair
admin2020-04-15

Audi is a company that continuously sees healthy sales margins, and for good reason. These vehicles are the epitome of engineering and craftsmanship, and you can get a lot of miles out of them when you take the time to care for their maintenance. But how do you repair Audi brakes?

This is one of the most necessary forms of Audi repair and maintenance, so to learn more, consider the points below.

Tips to Care For Audi Brakes

When you follow these suggestions, your vehicle will stay in great condition, and you’ll also be safer behind the wheel:

Change the Brake Pads as Necessary

When it comes to Audi brake maintenance, look no further than the brake pads. These pads attach the rotor and are responsible for the friction that slows and stops your car. If the pads on your Audi are wearing down, you’ll need to change them out.

Change your Brake Fluid

Your brakes will continuously give you problems if you don’t take the time to check the fluid. This fluid provides your brakes with the lubrication needed to prevent unnecessary breakdowns. Your Audi will be better able to hit tight curves with the accurate braking that you need. 

Buy Nothing But the Finest OEM Brake Parts

When it is time to repair your brakes, make sure you take where parts originate from into consideration. This means looking into original equipment manufacturer brakes, bearings, rotors, and other parts. 

When you’ve found the help of a quality auto repair shop, you’ll be better able to get the right supplies for any job that you have. 

Get Regular Inspections For Your Audi

Finally, take the time to handle your Audi maintenance by starting with some quality inspections. By scheduling an inspection for your vehicle each year, it’ll be easier for you to pinpoint when brake repair is needed to ensure continued high performance. 

Seek the Highest Quality Audi Repairs 

Audi brakes are engineering at its finest. When you have the help of a quality brake repair professional, it will help you stay on top of maintaining the health of your Audi. This is also a matter of safety for you, so never hesitate when it comes to taking care of your brakes. 

Our auto shop is ASE certified and has years of experience repairing Audis and other brands. Make a repair appointment with us so we can help with any of your vehicle’s needs.