American Thin Blue Line Flag

You will notice that many homes, businesses, and organizations are flying the Thin Blue Line flag, as do we. The flag has been around for many years and was actually adopted by law enforcement in the 1950s here in America. It has a long history and if you are interested, you can find more about its origins online.

Robin and I fly it at our business as it has a very special meaning for us. Our son is a police officer. He, along with all others in law enforcement literally put their lives on the line each and every day to protect American citizens. We feel that flying this flag shows our respect and support for all these brave men and women.

If you are a police officer and reading this, we would like to take this opportunity to say “thank you” for all you do!

Maintenance Myth Busters

Myth: Premium Gasoline Will Make Your Car Perform Better

Explanation: Many people believe that using premium gasoline will improve their car’s performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity, regardless of the vehicle they drive.

Reality: The truth is, most cars are designed to run perfectly on regular unleaded gasoline. Unless your vehicle’s manufacturer specifically recommends or requires the use of premium gasoline (often in high-performance or luxury vehicles with high-compression engines), you will not see any significant benefit from using it.

For vehicles that do not require premium fuel, using it does not enhance performance or fuel efficiency. In fact, you might just be wasting money, as premium gasoline is more expensive.

Premium gasoline has a higher octane rating, which means it can withstand higher compression without detonating. Cars designed for regular fuel do not need this higher octane, as their engines do not compress the air-fuel mixture to the same extent.

Conclusion: Unless your vehicle specifically requires or benefits from premium fuel (check your owner’s manual), there is no advantage to using it. Stick with the recommended gasoline type to ensure optimal performance and cost-efficiency.

Save Big with the California Cool Air Rebate Program!

At Certified Automotive Specialists, we’re always looking for ways to help our customers stay comfortable and save money on their automotive repairs. That’s why we’re excited to share some great news for California drivers: the new California Cool Air Rebate Program is here, offering up to 80% off the cost of repairing air conditioning leaks in your car or light-duty truck.

Let’s take a closer look at this fantastic program and how it can benefit you!

What is the California Cool Air Rebate Program?

The California Cool Air Rebate Program provides financial assistance to eligible California residents who need to repair their vehicle’s air conditioning system. This program specifically targets repairs to leaking air conditioning systems that use R-134a refrigerant. By fixing these leaks, the program helps improve air quality and reduce environmental impacts, all while making it more affordable for you to enjoy a comfortable ride.

Who Qualifies for the Cool Air Rebate Program?

The California Cool Air Rebate Program is designed to help lower-income families, with healthy families automatically qualifying. If you’re a California resident and your vehicle is eligible for the program, you could be looking at substantial savings.

To get started, all you need to do is visit the CoolAirRebate.org website and pre-qualify for the program. The process is simple and only takes a few minutes. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll be able to proceed with the next steps to get your air conditioning repaired and enjoy a cool, comfortable ride.

How Does the Program Work?

The program is incredibly straightforward, consisting of just three easy steps:

Step 1: Pre-Qualify

First, visit CoolAirRebate.org and answer five simple questions about your vehicle. This helps determine if you qualify for the program. If your vehicle qualifies, you’ll be able to move forward to the next step.

Step 2: Rebate Approval

Once you’ve pre-qualified, the Cool Air Rebate Team will send you an approval letter. This letter will confirm that you’re eligible for the program and provide you with the next steps to take.

Step 3: Repair Your AC

With your approval letter in hand, bring your vehicle to a participating repair shop. They will inspect and repair your air conditioning system. If your AC needs repairs due to a leak, the program will cover 80% of the cost, up to a maximum of $1,500 for repairs. Additionally, if the diagnosis results in qualifying repairs, the program will also cover 100% of the diagnostic fee.

It’s that easy! With this program, you can finally fix that pesky AC issue and enjoy a cool vehicle all year long, without breaking the bank.

Why Should You Participate?

At Certified Automotive Specialists, we believe in taking care of our customers, and this program is a perfect example of how California residents can take advantage of financial assistance to stay cool while also helping the environment.

Here are a few key reasons why you should consider participating:

Substantial Savings – Save up to 80% on the cost of qualifying repairs. That’s a huge discount that can make repairing your air conditioning system much more affordable.
Improve Air Quality – Not only will you enjoy a comfortable ride, but by repairing leaking AC systems, you’ll be helping to improve the air quality in your community. This program helps reduce the harmful effects of leaking refrigerant.
Simple Process – The steps to qualify and get your repairs done are simple and user-friendly. No complicated paperwork or extensive waiting. Plus, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
Support from Certified Professionals – You can trust that Certified Automotive Specialists will provide the expert care your vehicle needs. We’re a trusted leader in automotive repair, and our technicians are trained and certified to handle your AC system repairs with the highest standards of excellence.

What Makes Certified Automotive Specialists Stand Out?

As your go-to experts in auto repair and maintenance, we understand how important it is to have a working air conditioning system in your vehicle. California summers can be brutal, and having a cool, comfortable ride is essential for both safety and comfort.

At Certified Automotive Specialists, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality repair services at competitive prices. We’re here to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly, and we’ve built our reputation on trust, honesty, and integrity. Our team of certified technicians is here to provide fast, efficient, and reliable service, no matter what type of repairs your car needs.

We also believe in the power of community. The California Cool Air Rebate Program is a perfect opportunity for us to help give back to our community by ensuring that families can stay cool without stressing about the cost of repairs. We’re proud to be part of this initiative and encourage you to take advantage of it today.

How Can We Help You?

If you think your vehicle might qualify for the Cool Air Rebate Program, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re happy to assist you with the application process and guide you through the steps to get your vehicle’s air conditioning system repaired at a significant discount.

Whether you’re in need of an AC repair or any other auto service, we’re here to help. Visit our website at CertifiedAutoCA.com or give us a call to schedule your next appointment. Let us help you stay cool while you save big with the California Cool Air Rebate Program!

Engine Sludge Can Destroy Your Vehicle

Engine sludge is a byproduct of engine oil oxidation and can destroy your car’s engine. When the engine’s oil breaks down, a tar-like substance forms. It is caused by heat, contaminants and failure to change the oil at regular intervals. This sludgy mess causes friction, overheating and eventually, engine seizure.

Preventing engine sludge is far more manageable than curing it. Regular oil changes with high-quality oil, adhering to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules, and ensuring proper engine operation can significantly reduce the risk of sludge formation. It is a straightforward yet powerful approach to safeguarding the heart of your vehicle.

Premium Filters Go the Extra Mile

Cars that indicate when to change the oil use a software system. It can’t detect the condition of the oil. It is a mathematical formula that guesstimates. The owner’s manual is generic or “one size fits all.” Manufacturers can’t produce a separate manual based on each driver’s situation or environment. How often you need to have your car serviced depends greatly on you.

Oil isn’t the problem. It is the dirt and debris that gets into it.
Today’s engines have smaller passages, so we need to keep the dirt and/or sludge out.

The Filter’s Role

Regular filters are smaller now than they used to be. If sludge develops it crushes the filter and stresses the engine. Imagine using the same coffee filter and grounds for one month. You still get coffee, but the chemistry has changed.

The Oil’s Role

One important element in keeping our vehicles efficient is not to run them even a quart low on oil. A 25% decrease in oil equals a 33% increase in contaminants. With plenty of hot weather on the way it can seriously impair the cooling system. If you use your vehicle to tow, it is extremely important not to run low on oil.

Synthetic oils, for example, are designed to resist high temperatures and oxidation, making them less prone to sludge formation. Regularly checking and changing your oil, according to your vehicle’s specific needs and the manufacturer’s guidelines, is crucial in this battle against sludge.

Early Detection

Early detection of engine sludge is vital. Automotive technicians can tell when sludge is forming. They can recommend a solution to rid your vehicle of the dreaded sludge. Sometimes, an engine flush might be necessary to remove sludge deposits, followed by a fresh oil change to restore the engine to its optimal state.

Keep in Mind

Understanding what causes engine sludge, its impacts, and prevention strategies, you can ensure that this unwelcome substance doesn’t stay in your vehicle’s engine. Regular maintenance is not just routine; it is protection against the destructive force of engine sludge.

Older Cars Must Be Maintained

With new cars being so expensive, people are keeping their current vehicles longer. The average vehicle costs $47,218 when purchased new so it is completely understandable that people don’t want to pay the price.

If a car is regularly maintained, they can certainly last longer. The average car age today is 13 years old. If you have decided to keep your car longer, it is very possible. All it takes is some tender, loving care! Keeping your car longer can save more money than the purchase of the vehicle itself. With proper care virtually any car can be kept running as long as the owner wants to keep it. The longer you own a car, the less it costs you to own! A vehicle depreciates early on. It starts losing value the minute you drive it off the new car dealer lot. It will lose 66% of its value in the first five years, assuming you drive an average of 12,000 miles per year.

How many miles you can drive your vehicle before fluids or parts need to be replaced depends on your driving habits. Those who drive in stop and go traffic put a bigger strain on their vehicle so that is considered “severe” driving. Your car will need to be serviced more frequently than those who zip along the highways with no need for frequent stops.

It pays to be consistent with your car’s service! Many think it is okay to delay or even skip an oil change all together. Your engine may not blow up the minute you go over the recommended mileage, but it does accelerate the engine wear and can cause premature engine damage. Driving your car on fumes instead of filling up before the warning signal comes on isn’t good for your vehicle either. Using the right fluids and the right parts are vitally important to keep your car from aging. The wrong weight oil or the wrong transmission fluid won’t help your car stay young.

Preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your car running well. Make sure you choose an automotive repair shop you can trust and that really knows what they are doing. Keep your car washed and waxed to help its appearance. The money you save over time will be substantial.

How Often Should Transmission Fluid Be Changed?

The frequency of transmission fluid changes can vary depending on factors such as your vehicle’s make and model, driving habits, and manufacturer recommendations. However, as a general guideline, it’s typically recommended that you change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Regular transmission fluid changes help maintain proper lubrication and cooling of the transmission components, as well as prevent the buildup of debris and contaminants that can affect performance and longevity.

If you notice any signs of transmission problems such as rough shifting, slipping gears, or fluid leaks, it’s advisable to have your transmission fluid checked and possibly changed sooner, as these issues may indicate a need for maintenance or repairs.

Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations on transmission fluid change intervals, as they can vary depending on the vehicle’s specifications. If you’re unsure or have any questions, consulting with a qualified mechanic or automotive service technician can provide personalized guidance based on your vehicle’s needs and usage.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving contributes to 3,000 deaths per year! Sadly, being distracted while behind the wheel isn’t that unusual. Here are just a few ways that cause peoples’ minds to wander when they are driving.

Daydreaming is easy to do, especially when your drive is a daily routine. In your mind you are somewhere else, and not in a traffic pattern.
Cell phones have caused hazardous driving since they were invented. Drivers can’t seem to “let it go” when they hear their ringtone signaling a call or a text.
Be cautious if you are driving in areas with lots of pedestrians and cyclists. Dogs or wildlife running in front of your vehicle is also scary and the cause of accidents.
Driving when you haven’t slept well is bad news. Your mind drifts and your reactions can be slow.
Substance abuse is simply inexcusable as it hurts you and anyone you share the road with.
Driving with children can be distracting as they may drop something and become upset. If this happens, pull over at the first available place and take care of it that way. Do not try to retrieve an object that has dropped and drive at the same time.
You are in a hurry and go to a drive thru to pick up a meal. You try to multi-task and eat as you drive. This is not a good choice on many levels. It is messy and you try to clean up as you go. You could choke on your food or poke your eye with a straw. You are usually driving one-handed or sometimes with no hands while trying to consume your meal.
When you get in your vehicle, decide then if you want to drive with music. Make sure your mirrors are correctly adjusted to your needs as well as your seats. Be prepared before you join traffic.

We hope this helps make you more aware so you can prevent distracted driving. We want to keep our customers, neighbors, and all drivers safe!

My Car Still Starts But I’m Told I Need a New Battery! Why?

A battery can start a car because it provides the initial electrical energy needed to power the starter motor, which then cranks the engine to start it. If an automotive technician tests your battery and tells you that your car needs a new one, it is because it has lost its ability to hold a charge (called reserve capacity) or if its voltage drops below a certain level of 10.5 volts. A good battery has 12.6 volts.

If the reserve capacity (CCA, cold cranking amps) is low or voltage is low, this indicates the battery is unable to deliver the necessary power consistently. This could be due to factors such as age (this is number one), sulfation (buildup of lead sulfate crystals on the battery plates), or a malfunction within the battery cells.

While a battery might still have enough charge to start the car momentarily, it may not have the capacity to hold a charge or provide consistent power over time. This leads to a failed test or even worse, the car not starting at an inopportune time.

With the progress of stop/start technology, the multiple number of computers (5-25) to operate a vehicle, and the many features of the modern car, power is everything.

Once it’s gone you have a “no start condition.”