Your ASE Master Technician and You

Now that the winter is approaching, you may be thinking about having some work done to your car before the weather gets too cold. If you are unable to perform your own car repairs or just do not have the time, you have ASE master technicians do the work for you. They provide many services, including performing bumper-to-bumper inspections, windshield wiper replacements, engine repairs, and inspections of electrical, steering and suspension systems. You can work together with your technician to keep your car in good shape. 

What is ASE?

The National Institute for Automobile Service Excellence, or ASE, is a group that provides certification for people who want to work in the automotive repair and service industry. The goal of this group is to make sure that this industry has a qualified workforce that can provide competent, professional service. In order to become certified, you must be able to complete and pass a series of examinations. Each series represent a specific area of expertise in repair and service. For instance, if you wanted to work on transmissions, you would take the examination series that is specific to transmission work. You must also have at least two years of documented work experience. You will not need to attend school or receive formal training, although the formal training would give you an edge in passing the examinations. You would be more familiar with the technical terms that are used. 

What Does That Mean to Me?

Certification is the industry’s way of assuring you that the technician you hired to work on your car is qualified and certified to do a good job. Since technicians are required to re-certify every five years, they must stay abreast of new developments in the industry and be able to assimilate and adapt those changes in their work environment. They will be able to know the latest methods of making repairs, diagnostics, and many other areas. Their recertification can assure you that not only does the technician know the industry, he is also able to keep up with the changing trends and adapt to them. They will be able to relate new terms to you in a manner that will be easy for you to understand. That way, you can better understand your repair bill and why you were charged the price that you were charged.

How Can This Help You?

You can request a bumper-to-bumper inspection if you want, or you can request an inspection of a specific system, such as the electrical system or the cooling system. Your technician will hook your car up to a computer and run a diagnostic program. This will give him some indication of the location of the problem. It can also give him some information about the health of your car so that he can make an assessment if there are any concerns that need immediate attention. You will get a clearer understanding of your car and its parts. The mechanic can also give you some tips on how to prepare your car for the winter. He can recommend engine oils that would benefit your car and let you know what purity of gas you should be using. Your car can have a longer life if you work with your mechanic. 

It is Winter Fluid Checks Time

Now that it is approaching winter, this is a good time to make sure that your car is going to provide adequate service for you. One of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is to perform fluid checks and to make them a part of your regular winter safety routine. While each vehicle manufacturer may list different timetables in which to perform particular fluid changes, it is always a good idea to at least check the levels to make sure that they are at their recommended levels. You can top off levels that are low and check for any leaks and other repairs that may be needed now or in the near future.

Engine Oil and Transmission Fluid, Check

When you check your engine oil, you should drive the car around for a few minutes and then let it sit for about five minutes. Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick, which may have a brightly colored handle. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it down with a clean towel, and reinsert the rod. Pull out the rod again and check to make sure that the oil level falls between the two indicator marks that are on the stick. If it falls below the lowest mark, add more oil. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause damage to your engine. The transmission is a sealed system and should not have a low level. If you have a closed system transmission, you will need to take your car to an ASE master technician to check the fluid level for you. If you have an open system, you can check the level by pulling out the dipstick for transmission fluid and reading the level while the car is still running. If you find this level low, then you may have a leak somewhere and you will need to have a professional assess the transmission system for you. 

Brake and Windshield Wiper Fluids, Check

The brake system is a closed system, as is the transmission system; therefore, this level should not be low. If the level is low, then you may have a leak somewhere. The brake fluid should never read below two-thirds full. Top off the level if it is a bit low. If you top off the fluid level and you get another low reading soon afterwards, then you may have a leak. Have your mechanic assess the braking system hoses, gaskets, and lines. If you find any lines that are brittle, corroded, cracked, or damaged, you should have those replaced right away. Windshield wiper fluid is important because it helps you keep the glass clear of road salt and other debris that can adhere to the surface and obstruct your view. If you live in the states that experience frigid temperatures, you can find wiper fluid that does not freeze in cold weather. It is more expensive, so you can add alcohol to regular wiper fluid the keep it from freezing.

Battery and Radiator Fluids, Check

Car batteries have six cells, each one generating two volts of power. The battery is assembled with alternating plates of lead and lead dioxide and the plates are immersed in a solution of sulfuric acid and water. Older batteries have caps on the top that will allow you to open it to add distilled water to the cells if the level is low. Over time, the water in the cells will evaporate because of the chemical reactions that are taking place inside from charging at very high voltages or from overcharging. Newer batteries are closed systems and do not have any openings at the top for adding water. They contain additional solution to compensate for lost fluid. Radiator fluid is the cooling agent that keeps the car from overheating. You should only check radiator fluid with the engine cold and exercise caution when removing the cap because the pressurization could cause a blow up of scalding steam and cause tissue damage. When you perform your fluid checks, be sure to inspect the parts and replace any that are worn or damaged. 

Why Would You Need to Call AAA?

The AAA, or American Automobile Association, is a nonprofit federation of motor clubs that are independently owned and operated. This federation is known across the United States as the go-to place for help with travel planning and directions and roadside assistance. In order to take advantage of its many benefits, you need to be a member. You should make sure that you know the basics of AAA, the extent of assistance that they can offer, and the other benefits of membership. Make sure you contact your regional AAA office to find information that is pertinent to your area.

When You Need Roadside Assistance

One of the things that AAA is most widely known for is the roadside assistance. Members are able to call the regional office to get help if your car breaks down on you. Your membership will cover you even if you are not in your own car. If you are riding with someone who is not a member, you can still use your membership status to call for help for the vehicle in which you are a passenger. Roadside assistance would include towing service, battery charging, and provide referrals to auto repair shops that have been approved by AAA. Be sure to check with your regional office because since each office is independently owned, the terms for these services will vary. For instance, one office may provide towing service for up to three miles free while other offices will provide over three miles. The approved auto repair shops would include auto glass specialists, collision and body repair services, and other mechanical repair shops. You may also be able to find shops that provide general car maintenance to members free.

When You Need Directions or an Itinerary

Many people contact AAA for driving directions or for an itinerary for family vacations. You will be able to determine the amount of time it would take to reach your travel destination and which routes would be the best ones to take. You may be able to get information about the weather conditions of your destination as well as information about lodging, attractions, dining, and entertainment. Some offices can even give you information about road closings and detours and offer alternative routes you can take.

Other Things You Can Contact AAA About

This motor club has grown to include other services to its members, such as discounts from various retail partners such as hotels, restaurants, and other stores and retailers. You will be able to save money through your membership on items such as shoes, eyeglasses, toys, shipping, jewelry, and furniture. Since the organization already offer travel assistance, they also have a travel agency. Members can use the travel benefits even without driving to their destination by having access to discounts on car rentals, hotels, and airfare.  If you are arrested for a traffic offense, you can use their bail bond service, or their emergency cash acceptance program, which secures your written check if you need to pay for automotive services. The thing that most people appreciate is that the AAA provides a toll-free number that you can call around the clock so that you will be able to get assistance at any time you need it.   

The Training Regimen of ASE Master Technicians

Since technology keeps advancing in the automotive industry, it is important that mechanics remain knowledgeable about the changes. If your mechanic is an ASE master technician, you can be assured that they have the proper training, experience, and knowledge needed to provide you with the service that you need and want. This field continues to grow as the need for more mechanics grows. People are buying more than one car for their families. With all those cars on the road, you may be thinking of making a career change to capitalize on this growth. You need to know the steps that are involved in this career so that you can make the right career choice for you.

What is ASE?

ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence.  The mission of this nonprofit organization is to certify mechanics with a series of tests so that the consumer receives the best repair service. Automotive shops that have ASE-certified mechanics will have the logo displayed on the premises. Since a car has several systems, ASE provides several certifications for each car system. If you need steering and suspension work done, you should look for a mechanic who holds an ASE master certification in suspension systems. If you are having electrical problems, you can look for a mechanic who holds an ASE certification in electrical systems. Although you will find mechanics that provide service that will rival a master technician, certification will assure you that the work will be approached with professionalism and proficiency.

Is School Needed for This?

To enter an ASE master certification program, you must possess a high school diploma. While there is no formal post-secondary school education track or training required, you could enroll in some mechanics courses at a technology school so you can become familiar with the basic tenements of vehicle repair. Some colleges offer associate degree programs in automotive technology that you may find beneficial to you. The degree program will help you to better assimilate the information you will learn in the certification training. The education and training you get at the technology school will give you a good foundation and will prepare you for the certification training. One of the most important things you can do before you take your exam is to get as much experience as you can. You will need at least two years of experience before you can obtain certification. Some employers will train you or offer you an apprenticeship where you will work closely with a mentor. 

How to Be Certified

In order to become an ASE master technician, you need to be able to pass eight examinations. The examinations will cover engine repair, steering and suspension, automatic transmissions, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, brakes, engine performance, and manual transmissions. You need to retake each exam every five years in order to maintain your master certification. You can conduct a search online or check with your local ASE-certified mechanics to get more information about the program and to find out testing sites, dates, and the cost of each test. Be aware that you will have to pay a fee for each specialty you choose to obtain certification. 

Check List to Get Your Car and Yourself Ready for Fall

The red and gold leaves that fall bring, as well as the dark starry nights are all beautiful. However with the beauty comes a challenge to drivers; wet roads and slippery coatings of leaves making driving a bit more taxing this time of year than in any other. So if you are looking to prepare yourself for the coming season, there is no better place to start than with an inspection check list. Here is your guide to having a good fall with your vehicle. 

Anticipate the Weather Changes

Fall is one of those seasons where the weather can change on a dime. To be safe, do not allow yourself to be lulled in to a false sense of security by the pretty foliage and the bright skies. Rain and hail are common in the fall, and can often be a brutal reminder for those who take the season lightly that weather can be very dangerous.

Wash and Wax Your Vehicle

You may be surprised to learn that a good wash and a coating of wax can help your vehicle triumph in even the most extreme fall weather. Rust and corrosion can be warded off with just a little extra time and care. 

Allow for More Travel Time

Because the fall season can be so unpredictable, you want to try your best to remain ahead of schedule. The less you have to rush to get some place, the less dangerous it will be should you get caught in a storm. 

Get a Brake and Tire Check

During the fall season, your local mechanic can be your best friend. Safety does not simply come from you being aware of your surroundings and the weather; it also comes from your vehicle being in the proper shape. Bring it in for a brake check and a tire check before the fall season starts, to ensure that your brake pads are sufficient and your tires have enough tread.

Wind Shield Wiper Replacements

With heavy rains a very realistic potential, before autumn hits you should consider upgrading your wind shield wipers if they are not currently satisfactory, or if your current pair are damaged in any way. Experts also say that even if they are not damaged, your blades should be replaced every five thousands miles. Contoured blades with rubber bumpers are favored for the fall and the winter, as they have more power and will work easier to get more water and/or snow from your wind shield. 

Heater and Defroster 

Fogged up windows can make fall driving a terrible experience. Most of us have experienced this, and know it well and true. In order to avoid having to face this issue ever again, check that both your heater and your defroster are working. If your car was made in the past two decades, the back wind shield will most likely have a defrosting function as well as the front wind shield. If there are any problems with either, you will want to bring your vehicle in for repair before the fall weather comes. 

Preparing Your Tires for Winter

All year round there is only one thing between your vehicle and the ground; your tires. During the winter, this does not change. However the winter weather is a whole new challenge to your vehicle, and your tires will need to be paid attention to if you are to have a safe and stable drive each day through the snow, sleet and even ice. So we are going to talk about some of the ways that you can prepare your tires for winter, and avoid as many nasty scares as possible. 

Performing a Basic Winter Tire Check

You do not need to be a professional to perform a basic winter tire check. In fact it is one of the easiest things that you can do for winter car maintenance. First, you want to look at the tire’s tread. You should be able to visibly see the groves on the flat part of the tire. You can feel them to see how deep they are, but in many cases this is not necessary; if you can not see a tread, then your tires are bald and will need to be replaced before winter. A bald tire is a dangerous tire as it has no traction, and will cause your vehicle to slip on ice, snow and a variety of other surfaces. Once you have determined whether or not your tires have tread, you will want to check your tire pressure. To do this, simply use a tire pressure reading gauge. Check all four tires, and write down the psi readings. Then, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see what the proper psi reading for your tires should be, and fill your tires accordingly. 

Getting New Tires or Winter Tires

If your tires were looking bald, or if there was not enough tread for you to be certain (i.e. if your tires are over two years old and have had moderate to heavy use) then you will want to bring your car in to an auto repair shop to get your tires changed. Once there, you will have two options; you can get regular tires (there are many kinds, such as performance) or specialty tires, such as snow tires or all season tires. Specialty tires will, for the most part, have a better traction, and offer you a better and more controllable ride. This is because they have deeper treads, and the treads themselves are designed in patterns that are specifically created for seasonal driving weather. 

Do I Need to Buy New Tires?

You do not need to buy new tires if your tires have decent tread. However you should know that new tires will help your vehicle to handle better in the winter. It is highly suggested that if your tires are bald, you replace them before winter. “Testing them out” is not a very good idea; bald tires are notoriously bad at handling the snow, and even worse at ice because they can not get even a fraction of the traction or friction that “healthy” tires are able to achieve. 

The Benefits of Having Disc Brakes on Your Vehicle

Disc brakes are relatively new to the automotive industry. Only roughly sixty years old, these brakes are considered by some to be one of the greatest steps in automotive engineering history. And this is not said lightly; disc brakes have proven that, over time, they are far more safe for the average driver than their predecessors, the drum brakes. But what makes these brakes so safe, and why should you want disc brakes on your vehicle? Well, let’s take a look at the disc brakes as a whole.

Disc Brakes: The Basics 

Disc brakes, like drum brakes, use brake fluid. This means that, when you step on your brake pedal, fluid is transferred through a line, from the point of pressure (the brake pedal) to the brake itself. A disc brake is a uniquely styled brake. Before the disc brake, all brakes were created in what are known as “closed” housings. These housings contained shoes that pressed on to the wheel, but were completely enclosed, making heat a major issue, and a dangerous one too. But the disc brake is created from a brake rotor and a brake caliper. These work together to (a) rotate on the wheel, giving maneuverability, vastly improved over the drum brake’s construct and (b) pressure. Overall, the disc brake can exert far more pressure than a drum brake. This means that these types of brakes are much more effective at stopping the vehicle, or slowing it down quickly. Starting to see why these types of brakes are so popular? But there is more!

Disc Brakes: Not too Hot, Not too Cold—Just Right

Disc brakes are, as mentioned above, constructed openly. Whereas the older drum brake was prone to overheating, rendering the brake ineffective in many situations and presenting a larger amount of danger to the driver, the disc brake is able to cool off. With an open construction, air is able to pass through the brake, allowing for better temperature regulation. And what’s more, the friction applied to a wheel through the brake line from the brake fluid, and in to the brake pads on a disc brake is more efficient because of this. Disc brakes have such a small chance of overheating from use that it has become a very rare issue for people to have brake problems beyond the norm. And because of the brake’s construction, drivers are able to dictate exact pressure with their foot—something that lacked in a drum brake. 

Finding a Vehicle With Disc Brakes

Finding a vehicle with disc brakes is actually very easy. These days, most every vehicle that is manufactured has disc brakes. But beware; some lower budget cars still used drum brakes on the rear wheels. This is to decrease cost of production, as well as cost to the consumer. However, when it comes to safety, paying a little extra to ensure that your brakes will always be working is a very important, and practical, thing. The best way to find out if a vehicle you are looking at has disc brakes or drum brakes is by checking online for the specifications. 

The Components of Your Vehicles’ Brakes

The brakes are the most used part of your car. At least, that is, they should be the most used part of your car. Regardless of your driving style, when you need to stop, you need to stop. The brakes allow you to do this, protecting both you and the other drivers on the road. So what are the main functions of your brakes, and how do they work? Let’s find out.

Brake Pads

Brake pads provide the basic function of slowing down and, eventually, stopping you vehicle. A brake pad is a piece of metal with a “pad” on its face, turned in toward the brake rotor. When you hit the brake pedal in your car, the brake pads close in on the rotor, triggered by a brake line. The amount of force applied to the rotor depends on how hard you step on the brake. The harder you press, the more force goes through the brake line, the more abrupt your stop will be. Over time, the pad on the brake wears down. This happens because of the friction caused by braking. When the brake pad wears down too much, the brakes will no longer catch, or will have a hard time doing so. Driving with worn out brake pads can cause damage to the rotor. Luckily, brake pads are regarded as one of the easiest mechanical fixes on your vehicle. This is why the changing of brake pads is one of the first things taught in most high school automotive classes.  

Brake Lights

The brake lights, sometimes known as stomp lights, on your car allow others to see when you are braking. This helps to prevent collisions due to abrupt stops. The brake lights are typically red in color; however, they can be of a variety of hues. Brake lights are hook directly up to your brake pedal. Thus, when you step on the brake pedal in your vehicle, regardless of if you are driving or not, the brake light will come on. Brake lights are to be a pair, thus you won’t see any legal vehicles other than sport bikes without two brake lights. Having damaged or blown out brake lights can be a danger to other drivers on the road. This means it is very important that if your vehicle’s brake lights are broken, they be replaced immediately. 

Brake Repair

If you have reason to believe that the brakes in your vehicle are damaged, you should bring it in for brake repair. In most cases, brake damage is easily diagnosed. Tarnished brake pads and broken brake lines are the most common causes of brake trouble. However, it is not suggested that you try and diagnose the issue yourself. Many brake problems can have similar symptoms, and replacing the wrong part without proper testing can be dangerous. Check the local auto repair shops in your area. Compare their ratings and prices, and then choose the one that seems the best fit for your budget. Even if the problem is seemingly small, like cracked brake lights, it is always better to be safe and sure when it comes to your brakes.  

Keeping Your Car Safe

There are many simple things that anyone who drives a car can do to make sure that everyone inside your car will remain safe when they are traveling with you.  By performing simple basic inspections you can often times identify a potential problem before it threatens to strand you or worse yet cause an accident.

Complete Fluid Check

This is an easy process; the hardest part for some is popping the hood and opening it up. Once the hood of your vehicle is in a safe position, start by investigating your overflow container for the level of coolant that is in there.  Usually they come with a line that will tell you if your level is high low or right on.  Just fill the overflow to this level with coolant and you should be safe from overheating.  The next fluid you should check is your windshield washer fluid.  This may not seem important but if your windshield gets covered with any substance like dirt when you are driving or slush in the winter, this fluid can save your life. It is easy to fill and the fluid itself is very inexpensive.  Check your oil next by pulling out the dipstick and wiping off on a rag and then reinsert it, and pull it out again. If the level isn’t where it should be, you can add some oil to your motor.

Lighting System should be Running Well

Another system that you don’t often check but can cause a real problem when you are traveling if it should not be functioning properly is your lighting system.  It all begins with your headlights, because if they are not functioning properly you field of vision will be reduced and you will not have enough reaction time to avoid things in the roadway or other vehicles that may be beside the road.  Always keep your headlights clear from dirt and other road grime so that they will illuminate as much as possible. If a headlight is out you need to replace it right away, this is a reason for a police officer to stop you, because you are in danger if you lose the other one what will you do.  Your rear lights should also be checked, these are your running lights which show people where you are in the dark.  Without these lights you are in significant danger from vehicles behind you.  The brake lights are also included in this system; they let someone driving behind you to be aware that you may be stopping soon. Without these lights functioning you are going to be subject to a rear ending accident.  Finally the backing lights need to be kept functioning so that someone walking or driving behind your car will be aware of your intention to back up and they won’t be hit by your vehicle.

Safety is Your Responsibility

Simple safety inspections like this are vital to the safe operation of your vehicle whether you are running a big pickup truck or you drive one of the new highbred vehicles.   As a driver of a vehicle you are responsible for all of the people in and around your vehicle and taking that responsibility seriously will allow everyone to remain safe.

Common Causes of Overheating

Having a car is great. The ability to get from point A to point B in a quarter of the time it would take to walk is convenience at its best. And the freedom driving offers is unmatched by most anything. Whether getting to work or going to see friends or family, your vehicle is your main extension to the world. That is, until it stops working, or breaks down due to overheating. How does this happen? Well, there are a number of ways.

Leaking Coolants

 Your vehicle is filled with fluids of all kinds. Some fluids make it run; some fluids cool it down. The most common fluids in a motor vehicle are engine oil and gasoline. Although they fuel the car, these two fluids aren’t what can cause overheating. Coolant is often the culprit in cases of vehicles overheating. Coolant can leak out through a crack in the cylinder, or a weak gasket head. It can also leak from radiators, the water pump, a heater hose and a number of other places. When the coolant leaks, it evaporates, causing areas of the vehicle which are of high heat already to overheat. There is usually no external way for an untrained eye to tell where the coolant is leaking to. Even if it leaves behind residue, there is no exact way to place a stain to discern where the fluid is coming from. Another less common fluid leak is a faulty water pump. This is probably the most dangerous type of leak, as it can cause the engine to overheat. If you see any leakage stains in your garage, or wherever you park your car, and your vehicle is overheating, it is highly suggested that you bring your car to an auto shop immediately. 

Bad Fan Causing Overheating

Many of the cars on today’s market have rear wheel drive. With these types of vehicles in particular, a cooling fan has something known as a “clutch.” A defective clutch can cause overheating, as it causes slippage, not allowing the fan to cool as much as it is designed to. There are also cases where the fan simply does not work. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a broken fan belt. It isn’t uncommon for a fan to have a missing shroud as well, which can decrease the effectiveness of the fan’s cooling ability by up to half. Fan problems are one of the most common causes of vehicle overheating, and it is for this reason they are often overlooked. Just as with fluids, there is no way for an untrained person to diagnose a defunct fan. However, if your vehicle is making unusual sounds, or is running louder than normal, you may be able to safely guess that a fan is the culprit. 

Bringing Your Overheating Car to a Mechanic

Whether damaged radiators are the culprit, or leaking fluid, overheating problems are dangerous, and should be addressed as soon as possible. Bring your vehicle in to a local, reputable mechanic and have them look it over. They should be able to identify the problem and give you an estimate on costs and repair time.  

Simple Changes for Better Fuel Efficiency

Saving money at the pump is easier to do whenever you are maximizing fuel efficiency. This is something to do not necessarily need to buy hybrid vehicles to get. You can make some simple changes in your vehicle so you will be able to get more out of each tank of gas. Changes can be made whenever taking your car in for auto service or as the only reason you are bringing your vehicle in. By maximizing your fuel efficiency, you will be able to enjoy using your vehicle more.

Changing the Oil Regularly

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. Without clean oil in the vehicle, you will not be able to operate the engine the way you want to. Oil should be changed on a regular basis using the oil which is recommended for your vehicle rather. Check your owner’s manual allows you to see the kind of oil which is recommended for your vehicle. You may want to use a different weight of oil depending on the season. Lighter oil is more suited to cold temperatures. The first number in any oil product describes the thickness of the oil at zero degrees. The second number indicates the viscosity at 212 degrees. The higher the number is, the better suited it is for warmer weather. Always defer to the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Checking the Steering and Suspension

Steering and suspension is also highly important in the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. This is because the vehicle will be easier to handle when the suspension systems have been properly tuned. You will not have to fight the vehicle to drive straight. Loose suspensions can cause a lot of separation between the wheels and the road. If this happens, you will not be getting as much inertia from the gas you are burning. Pay attention to a feeling of bouncing long after a bump or dip has been encountered. This is an indication that the suspension of your vehicle is off. Also, if you are pulling to one side when trying to drive straight your steering might be off. Getting a tire alignment can help to maintain better steering as you are driving.

Adjusting Electronic Fuel Injection

The electronic fuel injection is integral to better engine performance. If the fuel injection system is off, it may be using too much gas as you accelerate. You will notice this if you smell gasoline as you are driving. If the vehicle seems to be acting sluggish whenever you are accelerating, it is a sign that the electronic fuel injection is not spraying correctly. Making changes in the volume of fuel being injected into the system can help to maximize the fuel being used. There could be a clog in the line including some deposits from the gasoline you are using. You can use a fuel injection cleaner to get rid of some of the deposits which might be in the lines. Simply add the cleaner into your next full tank of gasoline and it will blend with the fuel. The detergent additive cleans the fuel system so you get better performance and less of your fuel is wasted as you are driving down the road.