Gene's Car Tips - certifiedauto.com

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.”

What Does The Term ADAS Stand For?

ADAS, which stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, is a term used to describe a range of technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and improve the driving experience. These systems use various sensors, cameras, and other technologies to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and assist the driver in various driving tasks. Here’s how ADAS typically works in a car:

Sensors and Cameras: ADAS systems rely on sensors such as radar, lidar, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras to gather data about the vehicle’s surroundings. These sensors are often located around the vehicle, including on the front, rear, and sides.
Data Processing: The data collected by the sensors and cameras are processed by onboard computers or control units. These computers analyze the data in real-time to detect objects, vehicles, pedestrians, lane markings, and other relevant information.
Decision Making: Based on the processed data, the ADAS system makes decisions about how to assist the driver or intervene in certain situations. For example, if the system detects a potential collision with another vehicle, it may provide a warning to the driver or activate automatic emergency braking to help mitigate the impact.
Driver Assistance Features: ADAS systems offer various driver assistance features designed to enhance safety and convenience. Some common ADAS features include:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and may also provide steering assistance to keep the vehicle in the lane.
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spots and may provide visual or audible warnings to prevent collisions during lane changes.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Warns the driver of an imminent collision with a vehicle or obstacle ahead and may apply the brakes automatically to avoid or reduce the severity of a collision.
Integration and Feedback: ADAS systems are integrated with the vehicle’s other control systems, such as the braking and steering systems, to provide seamless operation. Additionally, many ADAS features provide feedback to the driver through visual, audible, or haptic alerts to enhance situational awareness and promote safer driving behavior.

Overall, ADAS technologies play a crucial role in improving vehicle safety by assisting drivers in avoiding collisions, maintaining control of the vehicle, and reducing the likelihood of accidents. As technology continues to advance, ADAS systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are paving the way for the development of autonomous vehicles.

Don’t let just anyone work on your ADAS system. Always ask if they are familiar with your make and model. Make sure they are ASE certified and have the latest equipment to solve your concern. Many ADAS calibration systems cost $30,000 or more. It is your responsibility to be aware and take care of your second largest investment…your car.

Maintaining Your Vehicle Is Essential

Maintaining your car is essential for several reasons, including safety, reliability, performance, and financial considerations. Here are some key reasons why maintaining your car is important:

Safety: Regular maintenance helps ensure that your vehicle operates safely on the road. Components such as brakes, tires, steering, and suspension need to be in good condition to provide optimal control and handling. Neglecting maintenance can lead to mechanical failures or compromised safety systems, increasing the risk of accidents.
Reliability: Proper maintenance reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and mechanical failures. Addressing potential issues early through routine inspections and services can prevent more significant problems that could leave you stranded on the side of the road.
Performance: Well-maintained vehicles typically perform better and more efficiently. Components such as the engine, transmission, and fuel system operate more smoothly when they are properly maintained, resulting in better fuel economy, acceleration, and overall performance.
Longevity: Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your vehicle. By replacing worn-out parts, changing fluids, and addressing minor issues promptly, you can prevent more extensive damage and extend the life of your car.
Resale Value: A well-maintained car retains its resale value better than one that has been neglected. Potential buyers are more likely to pay a higher price for a vehicle that has a documented history of regular maintenance and service records.
Cost Savings: While it may seem counterintuitive, maintaining your car can save you money in the long run. Preventative maintenance is generally less expensive than repairing major mechanical problems caused by neglect. Additionally, a well-maintained vehicle tends to be more fuel-efficient, reducing fuel costs over time.
Environmental Impact: Properly maintained vehicles tend to produce fewer emissions and consume less fuel, reducing their environmental impact. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your car operates efficiently and complies with emissions standards.

Overall, maintaining your car is crucial for safety, reliability, performance, and financial reasons. By investing time and resources in routine maintenance, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly, prolong its lifespan, and minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs.

Let’s face it, a car is a poor investment because as soon as you drive off the lot the value decreases. We need transportation, however. In the past we were told to trade in a car every 100,000 miles. Cars today are built better and last longer. We can now drive a car at least 200,000 miles with proper service.

Remember 60 years old is the new 40 and 200,000 miles is the new 100,000 miles, and with the average payment of $735.00 a month, get the car paid off and drive.

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Why Auto Repair Shops Charge a Testing/Diagnostic Fee

Automotive diagnostic charges typically cover the cost of the technician’s time and expertise in diagnosing issues with your vehicle. These charges reflect the resources, equipment, and training required to accurately identify problems and determine the appropriate repairs or maintenance needed.

Here are a few reasons why you might be charged for automotive diagnostics:

Labor and Expertise: Skilled technicians spend time inspecting your vehicle, using specialized tools and equipment to diagnose issues accurately.

Equipment Costs: Diagnostic tools and equipment used to scan vehicle systems and retrieve error codes incur costs for purchase, maintenance, and updates.

Training and Certification: Technicians undergo extensive training and certification to effectively diagnose complex vehicle systems, which contributes to the overall cost of diagnostics.

Investigation and Testing: Diagnosing automotive issues often requires thorough investigation and testing, which may involve multiple steps to pinpoint the root cause of problems.

Facility Overheads: Automotive repair facilities have overhead costs such as rent, utilities, insurance, and administrative expenses, which are factored into diagnostic charges.

Accuracy and Precision: Proper diagnostics help prevent unnecessary repairs by identifying the specific issues affecting your vehicle, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.

Keep in mind that diagnostic charges may vary depending on the complexity of the issue, the type of vehicle, and local market rates. It’s important to discuss diagnostic fees with your automotive service provider beforehand to ensure transparency and understanding of the costs involved.

40% of Online Auto Parts are Counterfeit!

It still amazes me that so many “dark markets” exist today. Ordering parts online is easy, they look like the genuine article, but sadly they are not. They are made with inferior materials and cause breakdowns quickly when they fail prematurely.

Those of us who own auto repair shops are held to a higher standard of regulations and must use genuine auto parts. We are happy to comply because the safety of our customers and those they share the road with are a top priority for us.

Counterfeiters are only concerned about making a huge profit on their low-quality parts. They currently are not regulated but government agencies and law enforcement are now aware of these fakes and are trying to stop these online platforms from selling these vastly inferior parts to unsuspecting consumers.

We are hoping that the laws will step up quickly to protect all consumers so we can drive with confidence.