C.A.R. Shop Inc offers a variety of services, including everything from Alignment to Vehicle Inspection. Read more below to learn about the specific service you need and what we can do for you.
Alignment
The front end components of a vehicle can be out of alignment, but not give any indication or warning signs. Shimmying and shakes in the front end are usually not caused by the car being out of alignment, but will be caused by tires being out of balance, lack of rotation or the tires being separated. The vehicle pulling to one side or unusual tire wear are the two most common warning signs for the alignment being “out.” The alignment should be checked every 15,000 miles or yearly depending on your driving habits. ALWAYS have the front end aligned when replacing tires. Some adjustments to the rear alignment are available on most new model vehicles. Contact C.A.R. Shop Inc to take care of all your alignment needs.
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning refrigerant commonly known as “Freon” should be checked for proper pressures and level of refrigerant oil periodically. Low Freon and refrigerant oil levels can cause premature wear on air compressors, and decrease overall performance of the a/c system. Although the a/c system is a sealed unit, it is not uncommon to have to add small amounts of “Freon” periodically due to small leaks and seepage. Freon is a gas that is under high pressure and should only be service by a trained professional.
Batteries
Loose or dirty battery cables are a common “no start” condition. The most common cause of road side breakdowns is battery failure. Cable ends and battery terminals should be cleaned periodically to remove corrosion and build up. Battery terminal protective coatings can be helpful in reducing corrosion. Battery load is how much load or drain can be placed on the electrical system before the battery begins to discharge itself. Think of is as how much electricity the battery can store before having to be recharged. It is not uncommon for batteries to go completely “flat” or discharged without ever giving a warning signal to the operator. C.A.R. Shop can load test the battery to ensure the battery will not leave you unexpectedly stranded. A weak battery that is not storing enough power will cause the alternator to work harder and possibly cause premature alternator failure. C.A.R. Shop Inc. is an Interstate Battery retailer and carries a large selection of batteries in our inventory.
Brakes
Don’t wait until you hear grinding noises to have the brakes inspected. Have brakes checked periodically for wear. We use a brake grading system12-8mm’s condition green =good, 5-6mm’s yellow=good ½ worn, 4mm’s last yellow=start thinking about replacing brake pads, 2-3mm’s red=replace now. Some warning signs of brake problems are: noises when brakes are applied, the steering wheel shakes when brakes are applied, needing to add more than 2 oz. of brake fluid to the brake reservoir, a soft or squishy brake pedal, or the pedal goes to the floor slowly while brakes are applied. Brake fluid should be replaced every 30,000 mile or every other year.
Cooling System
We recommend you get a preventative cooling system maintenance check performed at least once every two years. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual for specific guidelines. The cooling system inspection identifies areas that need attention, and consists of the following: · A visual inspection of all cooling system components, including belts and hoses · A radiator cap pressure test to check the recommended system pressure level · A thermostat check for proper opening and closing · A pressure test to identify external leaks to the cooling system parts including the radiator, water pump, engine coolant passages, radiator, heater hoses and heater core · An internal leak test to check for combustion gas leakage into the cooling system. Contact C.A.R. Shop Inc. for all of your cooling system needs.
Oil Change
Keep your vehicle running and in good condition with regular oil changes. Depending on vehicle age or type, choosing the right oil will make the difference between getting to your destinations and breaking down. The C.A.R. Shop offers synthetic blend, full synthetic, and diesel oil changes. We also provide a general complimentary vehicle inspection with each oil change.
Repair Services
C.A.R. Shop Inc offers a wide variety of repair services. Whether you have an oil leak or need your engine rebuilt or replaced the C.A.R. Shop is the place to go. We offer everything from electrical diagnostic to mechanical diagnostics, general tuneups and repair services for all your repair needs. Call us today to answer your questions or schedule your appointment.
Tires
Your vehicle’s tires make constant contact with the road. Over time and with normal wear-and-tear, your become worn down. This can be dangerous when braking on wet or snow-covered roads. Hydroplaning occurs when the tire’s grooves are so worn down that they don’t channel water out from beneath the tread. When this happens, your treads only skim the water’s surface and the steering wheel won’t respond. Keep your tires in working condition.
How do I know if I need new tires?
- Your tread depth is below 1/16 of an inch (1.6 millimeters). To get a rough idea of your tread depth, use a penny and insert it “head down” into the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head, you need new tires.
- Your tread wear indicator bar is visible. Flat rubber bars run perpendicular to the tread. If you see them, it’s time for new tires.
- Your tire’s sidewall is showing visible cracks or cuts. Take this seriously; your tires may soon start to leak.
- Your tires have developed bulges or blisters. Weak spots on tires show up around blisters or bulges and can blow out your tires.
If you see any of these signs, you need to have them checked and replaced. We carry a number of brand name tires to choose from, and our trained technicians will install them properly. Come in to our shop, call, or email us, and we will assist you.
Transmission
The modern automatic transmission is the most complicated mechanical component in today’s vehicle. The automatic transmission contains mechanical systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and computer controls that work together to power the engine to drive the wheels. With so many parts working together, this can lead to your transmission needing special attention. Transmission maintenance leads to a longer vehicle life. Typically trouble with the transmission starts from overheating. Stop-and-go traffic, heavy pulling, struggling in the snow, hot weather, and racing can cause your transmission to overheat. At higher temperatures the transmission fluid burns. Your vehicle loses lubrication and deposits inside the transmission increase. Contact C.A.R. Shop Inc. as soon as you believe your vehicle is having transmission problems.
Vehicle Inspection
Looking to buy or sell a vehicle? Give yourself peace of mind; get it inspected. In general, we suggest you get your vehicle inspected at least once every two years. An inspection ensures that your vehicle conforms to safety or emissions regulations. If you are not looking to buy or sell a vehicle, an inspection ensures your car runs at peak performance. Contact C.A.R. Shop Inc to setup your inspection appointment.
Loaner Vehicles
C.A.R. Shop Inc offers customers the use of a loaner vehicle free of charge while their vehicle is being serviced (deposit required for gas usage). Please notify us when scheduling your service appointment to reserve a vehicle.