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How to Reduce Common Car Repair Costs?

One of the first things that come to our minds when faced with car repairs is the cost factor. You immediately think of what a car repair is going to cost you.

But here’s the thing – most people don’t realize that most high cost car repairs can be easily avoided if they ensure regular car maintenance and practice good driving habits.

Of course, if you have a reliable and superlative car repair service, it can be an added bonus.

Coming back to the question of how to avoid high-cost car repairs, here are five areas of focus that can not only help reduce your car repairs costs but can actually help you avoid a number of common car troubles.

Tip # 1 – Take your Car for Routine Maintenance

Most car owners don’t realize how much harm they are doing to their cars when they miss or ignore regular car maintenance.

  • When you take your car for professional car maintenance, your car technician performs a number of checks, repairs, and if necessary, part replacement(s) so your car is in top condition.
  • So not only does this help address any current car repairs or issues, but it can also help you avoid potential car problems in the future. 
  • Regular maintenance is useful for another important reason – routine checks, repairs, and preventive maintenance can help in slowing down wear and tear of the different mechanical parts.
  • Thus, your car’s operational efficiency goes up which means better fuel efficiency, better car performance, and improved longevity. 

Tip # 2 – Take the Warning Lights on your Dashboard Seriously

Ignoring warning lights on the car dashboard is a common but extremely harmful action that several car owners are guilty of.

If you find the warning lights come on, check your car manual to find out what problem the light is indicating towards.

If you are unsure, please consult with a professional car technician at the earliest.  Your car technician will identify the exact cause and then go ahead and fix the issue.

A word of advice – if you see the “check engine” light flash, and you are unable to identify the exact fault, have it checked by a professional car technician. Car engine repairs are some of the most costly car repairs – you can easily avoid substantial repair costs by acting on the issue in a timely manner.

On top of this – you certainly don’t want to have car failure when you are out on the road during a Phoenix summer.

Tip # 3 – Take Care of Your Car Battery

Routine battery checks are important as they help in identifying and addressing both current and future trouble. Your car technician will carry out a complete battery check when you take your car for routine maintenance.

If your car or the battery has crossed three years, we advise regular checkups – this will help in ensuring long car battery life and fewer battery problems.

Tip # 4 – Check Car Fluid Levels Regularly

Five fluids levels you need to regularly check include – engine oil, transmission oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolants.

Over a period of time these fluids can become contaminated from all the debris build-up leading to a number of car troubles.

Ensure your car fluid levels are as per what is recommended in your driver’s manual. If the fluids levels are low, top them up. Or if required, flush the fluids and replace with fresh fluids.

When you take your car for professional maintenance, your car technician will check the fluid levels, clean the parts, and then refill or top up the fluid levels.

Tip # 5 – The Importance of Safe Driving

Hitting bumps and potholes at high speeds can inflict a lot of damage on your car. If you drive on bad roads or in bad weather conditions or if you are in the habit of continuously speeding and braking, it can take a toll on your car performance. 

These actions can place a lot of stress on different car parts and lead to faster wear and tear.

As a result, you might end up having to replace parts far more frequently – you could be looking at repairs to your suspension, tire damage, wheel alignment, or steering wheel issues.

By practicing safe driving, you can easily avoid these damages and repairs.

Reliable Car Maintenance with Professional Auto Experts!

If you are looking for professional and credible car repair service for your car, give Virginia Auto Service a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online.

3 Cleaning Tips for Car Seats and Upholstery

Cleaning and caring for car seats and upholstery is an important part of maintaining your car.

Just like other parts of your car, the seats and upholstery need preventive maintenance to keep them from getting damaged over time. On top of this, those hot Phoenix summers can take their toll on any type of interior. It does not matter if your windows are tinted.

1. Interior Maintenance

It goes without saying that different types of car seats will need different cleaning treatments to keep the structure of their fabric intact.

As a rule, there are three important things to keep in mind when cleaning your car seats and upholstery:

  1. Always check your car manual for any cleaning or maintenance advice from the car manufacturer.
  2. Read the label on any cleaning products you use to ensure it is safe and will not damage the fabric or upholstery.
  3. Always test the cleaning product on a small area (select a spot that is not easily visible) of the car upholstery – this way you will know if the product is safe for use.

2. Cleaning the Fabric of Your Car Seats

Clean the Debris

  • You can use a hand-held vacuum, or just an ordinary household vacuum cleaner that comes with a brush attachment, to clean up debris and dust from the seats.
  • Vacuum the surrounding areas of your car’s interior as well so that dust and dirt don’t accumulate on the seats again.
  • Once the vacuuming is over, you need to clean it with water – fill two buckets, one with cold water and the other with warm water.
  • Add laundry detergent to the bucket of warm water, soak a sponge in the bucket and gently but firmly clean and scrub each seat.
  • It’s important that you swipe the seats in quick firm motions – don’t let the seats soak in water or get too wet. 
  • After cleaning the seats, dip a towel or soft fabric into the bucket of cold water and clean out any excess debris or dust, as well as the laundry detergent, from the surface of the seats.
  • Allow the seats to dry naturally.

3. Cleaning Leather and Faux-Leather Upholstery

Leather upholstery needs to be cleaned with care. If you are not careful about using the proper cleaning agents (use cleaners that are PH-balanced) or the proper method, you could easily cause permanent damage to the leather upholstery.

Important Preventive Care Tip – One of the best ways of keeping your leather upholstery clean is by routinely vacuuming the seats. This will prevent too much dust and debris accumulation, making your job easier when you want to go in for an intensive cleaning of the leather upholstery.

  • Again, the first step always involves vacuuming the car seats and interiors – you need to clean out as much dust and debris through vacuuming first.
  • Once the vacuuming is done, use the car upholstery cleaner and follow the directions on the package; don’t lather the cleaner – use it sparingly.
  • Gently but firmly wipe down the seats with a soft cleaning cloth and ensure the cleaning agent is completely removed from the seats.
  • Allow the seats to dry out a little while ensuring that no cleaner spots or stains are left behind.

It’s a good idea to use leather conditioner on your seats periodically. This will make sure the leather maintains its texture, feel, and form, while also locking in the natural oils so the surface of your leather car seats don’t get dry or crack.

Make sure you follow the instructions on the leather conditioner for a clean finish.

Preservation for the Long Term

The cleaning of your car seats, the interiors, and leather upholstery should be carried out on a routine basis. Simple periodic vacuuming does help; however, a deep or intensive cleaning is required to keep your seats and leather upholstery in stellar condition through the years.

As mentioned above, it is important to check your car manual about the kind of products that are safe for cleaning leather seats.

If you are unsure about what products you can use, check with a professional car cleaning service for advice on what is best for your car seats and upholstery.

Reliable Car Maintenance with Professional Auto Experts!

We take car care very seriously at Virginia Auto Service. If you need a professional car technician for any kind of car repair services or for routine maintenance work on your car, we can help.

Give us a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online at your convenience.  

Car Servicing Best Practices That Are NOT Always True

car servicing best practices that are not always true

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways of ensuring your car runs smoothly and efficiently.

You probably have been reminded of this by your car service guy every time you take in your car.

We at Virginia Auto Service believe in this recommendation 100%. However, there are a few best practices which don’t always hold true for every single car. Here are some of the common myths about car care and maintenance that you should be aware of.

Don’t Fall for these Car Servicing Claims – They Might Not Be 100% True!

Some of the advice you hear from friends, family, and even service technicians who want to make a fast buck can be false. Which is why we have compiled a list of car servicing best practices that are false or not entirely correct. Read on to know more.

Always Use Premium Gas for Better Performance

Well, regular gas works just fine because it must meet stringent quality standards. So, if you are using 86 octane gas your car engine will run perfectly well.

  • Unless your car manual states something different and you don’t own an expensive model or sports car, regular gas works perfectly.
  • Cars that need premium gas usually have high performance and compression engines which tend to heat up a lot faster.
  • Higher octane fuel is ideal for turbo charged engines which is why they come with protectants and cleaners and are engine knock resistant.

Air Filters Need to Be Replaced on a Routine Basis

Again, a false statement and the wrong advice. While air filters need regular replacements, the time frame depends on the driving conditions as well as the age of the car.

So, if you drive on bad roads, the filters should be replaced more often or if your car is old, then a replacement is often necessary.

  • Ideally, air filters should be replaced or changed between 12,000 and 30,000 miles.
  • It’s also important to know that, air filters can be cleaned during routine maintenance, so you might not have to go in for a replacement every single time.

Oil Changes Should Happen Every 3,000 Miles

Oil should be changed anywhere between 5,000 miles and 7,000 miles. Since the quality of oil as well as the engine design that most cars sport today are far more superior that what it used to be, there is no need for an oil change every 3,000 miles.

We would recommend you check your owner’s manual for a more accurate time frame specific to your car model but even then, your car should be able to go at least 5,000 miles before you need more oil and another filter.

DIY Car Maintenance Equals Routine Maintenance by a Professional Car Mechanic

  • Car care knowledge is awesome and essential for every car owner. You never know when you might face car trouble. And if roadside assistance is not available, then knowing something about car repairs could save you a lot of trouble, time, and money.
  • However, mechanics are required to undergo training which is far more complex and detailed.
  • The kind of diagnostics, repairs, and fixes that your car undergoes during routine maintenance at a professional service station is far more detailed and complex than regular home/garage DIY maintenance.
  • This is why taking your car for routine maintenance is essential for optimal performance and DIY maintenance rarely hits the mark.

Car Insurance Pays for Every Type of Repair Work

Yes, it does – If that is what is stated in your policy. The kind of coverage that you chose will be the determining factor in what kind of repairs your insurance company will pay for.

Our advice, before you decide to sign up for a policy, go over it carefully and see what items are listed or covered before you go ahead and make the selection.

Not Up to the Mark

Regardless of how comfortable and savvy you are about car repairs and maintenance work, it is difficult to match the kind of servicing that professional auto repair mechanics offer.

A simple tire change or topping off the car fluids is something that you can learn and do by yourself. However, complex engine repairs require professional expertise.

Reliable Car Maintenance with Professional Auto Experts!

Are you looking for a professional auto repair service for your car? Are you facing car trouble? Is your car in need of routine maintenance? If yes, give Virginia Auto Service a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online.

Is Your Car Winter Ready? Top Maintenance Tips to Deal with Cold Weather

is my car ready for winter? top car maintenance tips for cold weather

Dropping temperatures can impact car performance in many ways. From starting problems, to dealing with dropping tire pressure, or even windshield wiper trouble – there are a host of winter-specific issues that can leave you frustrated.

Not to mention, you could end up with a massive dent in your budget.

The good news is you can avoid most of these issues by carrying out simple maintenance work on your car before winter sets in completely. Here are our top maintenance tips to get your car winter ready this season:

Schedule a Tune-up

One of the most important steps in getting your car winter ready is to have it serviced or tuned-up before winter sets in. A tune-up can prevent several common car troubles owners face; like rough idling, hard starts, and sluggish car performance.

Now, we know it doesn’t get that cold in the Phoenix area, but if you drive up to Flagstaff in the winter or even further north into colder states your car needs to be prepared.

Speak to your professional mechanic or auto repair service center about the tune-up and ask them about important preventive maintenance tips to keep your car in good running condition all through winter.

Check Your Tires

Tire pressure in cold weather can drop as the temperature drops. Here’s what happens:

  • The pressure drop could be as much as one psi per 10 degrees Fahrenheit drop in outside temperature.
  • Winter nights are much colder, so the pressure drop could be substantial by the time morning comes around.
  • The best way to offset this issue is by routinely checking your tire pressure (at least once a month) and ensuring it is at the required psi.

Your local mechanic can help you in this regard. Or you could check the tire pressure yourself at a local gas station. In either case, the goal is to maintain consistent tire pressure. This way, you can effectively extend the life of your tires and make them winter ready.

In addition, have the depth of your tire treads checked if you are going to be driving on icy and/or wet roads. A prudent idea would be to switch to winter tires. Again, you can speak with your local mechanic or auto service center about this.

Check Your Antifreeze

Antifreeze is particularly critical during winter to prevent rust and corrosion and to maintain the fluid levels in cold weather. Upgrading your antifreeze could help your car run seamlessly even when outside temperatures fall below freezing levels.

Check Your Lights

When visibility falls, due to heavy snow or rain and particularly during icy cold winter nights, the role your car headlights and other signals play is crucial.

You need to have these in top working condition not just to see what’s ahead, but for other’s to be able to see your car approaching. So, it’s fundamental to have your headlights, brake lights, and signal lights inspected well before winter.

  • You can check these lights by having someone else operating the lights in the driver seat while you check it from the outside.
  • You could also check the lights in your rear-view mirror by parking in front of a reflective surface such as a store front.
  • Of course, if you get a tune-up before winter, your mechanic or service center will check to make sure your lights work properly.

If any repairs or replacements are necessary, have them done immediately as it involves not only your safety but the safety of other drivers on the road.

Check Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are in direct contact with harsh winter elements. This can lead to extensive wear and tear. If they need replacement, have it done before the weather changes.

Remember: Always make sure the windshield is free of snow and ice before you turn on the windshield wipers to prevent them and the windshield from sustaining damage.

Additional Winter Care Preventive Maintenance Tips

  • Make sure to check your battery; if you are confident about checking it yourself go ahead. If not, it is better to have it checked by a professional mechanic.
  • Check the different fluid levels and top them if necessary; again, if you can do this yourself, go ahead. If not, your local mechanic can help.
  • Prepare a winter emergency kit in addition to your regular emergency kit. Unpredictable weather changes have become rather common in the last few years. Being prepared is better than being caught off-guard.

Things to include in your emergency winter kit:

  • Blankets
  • Water
  • Energy food (high-calorie and high-energy bars)
  • Gloves, boots
  • Shovel, ice scraper, and sand (for slippery or wet roads)

Preparing Properly

Winter preventive maintenance can help you avoid common car troubles and help you better deal with the driving hazards of cold weather.

If you are unsure about any of the tips discussed above, it is best to consult with your local mechanic who will be able to further advise you and help get your car ready for winter.

Winter Maintenance with Auto Experts you can Trust!

If you are worried about winter maintenance for your car, give Virginia Auto Service a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule a visit with us online at your convenience.

How Do Potholes Harm Your Vehicle?

Potholes are pesky little road hazards that can result in anything from a simple jolt to a blown tire. The pothole is the sworn enemy of your tires, and unfortunately, they won’t be going away anytime soon. If you’ve driven a vehicle, chances are you’ve encountered one at one point or another. Most of the time, once you see the pothole, it is too late to avoid it.

Potholes are holes of various shapes and sizes that appear in the roadway. Potholes are formed by the expansion and contraction of ground water under the pavement. If the groundwater has a chance to swell or freeze, it will expand taking up more room under the pavement. As such, the pavement will expand and possibly crack, weakening it. Then once the water recedes, the pavement will contract, and gaps/voids will be made on the surface underneath the pavement. Each time this happens the pavement becomes weaker. As the heavy weight of vehicles passes over these weak spots in the road they break down and the pavement becomes displaced creating a pothole.

There are many potential forms of damage that a pothole can cause to your vehicle, including:
• Tire damage, puncture or wear
• Damaged wheel rims
• Early wear on shocks and struts
• Damage to the suspension
• Misalignment of the steering system
• Damage to the exhaust system
• Engine damage

Four tips to avoid serious damage to your vehicle on a pothole:

Pay attention. The best way to protect your vehicle from pothole damage is simply to pay attention to the road before you. If you can spot them early enough you have a better chance of avoiding them. Try and avoid hitting them by swerving around them if its safe to do so. This way you can avoid all potential damage. You should leave enough space between you and the vehicles in front of you on the road so that you are better able to see the road ahead and give yourself more time to avoid them.

Be aware of water-filled potholes. It is especially important to watch for potholes that are filled with water. Water-filled potholes can be exceptionally dangerous because you have no way of knowing their depth. If you are driving on a road that is worn and damaged, you need to drive slower to minimize the damage to your vehicle when you hit a pothole.

Don’t slam on the brakes. At some point, no matter how careful you are, you will likely hit a pothole. When you do, it is important that you don’t slam on your brakes. When you hit the brakes your vehicle tilts forward putting more stress on the front suspension- the first part of the vehicle that hits the pothole. Slamming on your brakes will cause more damage to the vehicle because of the extra force.

Inspect your vehicle if you experience a considerable jolt. If you hit a pothole that is particularly jarring, you shouldn’t hesitate to immediately check for a flat tire. If your vehicle is still drivable, by all means, get on your way. However, you should pay close attention to your vehicle as all problems don’t present themselves right away. At some point, you should recheck your tires for bulges, uneven wear and other sorts of visible damage. These are usually the first signs of damage caused by a pothole. You should also pay attention to any new vibrations or the car pulling strongly in either direction. This is a sign that the pothole threw your vehicle out of alignment or damaged your steering system. If you continue to drive with such problems they could wind up causing further damage and become even more expensive to repair, so have your vehicle taken care of as soon as you notice any sign of trouble.

If you have hit a pothole you can bring your vehicle to Virginia Auto Service and we will assess the damage and get it back on the road in no time. Call us at 602-266-0200 or schedule your next appointment online.

6 Auto Maintenance Myths Busted

We always stress how important regular and proper maintenance is to the safety and longevity of your vehicle. However, over time, vehicle technologies have changed creating many myths and misconceptions about what this care should be.


Here are six common auto maintenance myths:

Myth 1: You can use dish soap or laundry detergent to wash your vehicle.

Fact: You should use soaps that are specifically designed to wash cars or bring your vehicle to a professional car wash. Household cleaning soaps will strip away your wax finish and cause your paint to fade or crack and peel.

Myth 2: Instead of using the AC, roll your windows down for optimal fuel efficiency.

Fact: Using the AC does cause your vehicle to use fuel faster than not using the AC. However, rolling down your windows isn’t really any better. When the windows are rolled down it increases wind resistance, counteracting the aerodynamic design of your vehicle. While overcoming this additional resistance, your vehicle will consume additional fuel that is almost the same as if your AC were on.

Myth 3: All vehicle’s need an oil change every 3,000 miles.

Fact: Older vehicles did require more frequent oil changes, usually at around every 3,000 miles. However, as engine technology has changed, this is no longer the rule. Some newer vehicles can go as long as 5,000 to 7,500 miles before an oil change is necessary. While you won’t harm your vehicle with more frequent changes, you can save yourself time and money if you are able to go longer between changes. The mileage recommendations for your specific vehicle model can be found in your owner’s manual.

Myth 4: Your tire pressure needs to match the PSI recommendation on its sidewall.

Fact: You should not fill your tire to the PSI number that is on the tire. This number is the maximum pressure that the tire can hold for safe driving. It is not the recommended number for best handling, fuel efficiency, or comfort. Usually, the ideal PSI for your vehicle can be found in your glove box, on a doorjamb sticker, or on the fuel-filler door. It can also be found in your owner’s manual. Underinflated or overinflated tires can cause damage to your tire, shortening its life dramatically. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month. When you check, make sure the tires are cool and have not recently driven.

Myth 5: Using premium fuel in any vehicle will improve how it operates.

Fact: If your vehicle’s owner’s manual doesn’t specifically state that you should be using premium fuel, then doing so won’t make a difference in how your vehicle performs. Using premium fuel in a vehicle that is designed for standard isn’t harmful, but why waste the extra money if it’s not necessary to do so? Remember, if your manual explicitly states that you need to use high-octane gas, then that is what you will have to do. Using standard fuel in a car that requires premium fuel can cause damage to the engine.

Myth 6: To keep your warranty active, maintenance must be performed at the dealership.

Fact: For your warranty to remain active you need to follow the maintenance schedule laid out in your owner’s manual. This maintenance can be done by your favorite local auto shop, it does not have to be performed at the dealership.

When it comes to the care of your vehicle you want the best. That is why you should call on the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Call us at 602-266-0200 or schedule your next appointment online.

5 Strange Noises Your Car Makes, And What They Mean

Did you know that, if you listen, your vehicle can tell you quite a bit? Your car will often communicate to you that it has a problem in the form of squeals, rattles, and knocks. You drive your vehicle the most and you know the sounds it usually makes, so when you hear something new, pay attention. These vehicle grumbles are often the first sign that something is going wrong.


This is a list of five strange noises your vehicle may make, and what could be causing them:

Squealing

Often, a squealing heard coming from under the hood of your vehicle that fluctuates based on speed, indicates a loose belt or two. When loose or showing signs of wear, power steering belts will make a shrill squealing noise. Fan and air conditioning belts will make a similar sound. If you hear a loud squealing, you should have your belts inspected right away. A power steering belt can be both dangerous and create serious damage if it breaks while you are driving.

Screeching

If you hear a high-pitched screeching noise when you attempt to stop your vehicle, it means that it is time to have your brakes inspected. Brake pads are made with indicators on them that create the screeching noise when the pads are worn down too low and need replacing. If you pay attention to this noise as soon as it begins to present itself, the only thing you will have to change is the brake pads. If you delay, you will increase your chances of causing further damage to the vehicle resulting in more expensive repairs.

Rumbling

If you are hearing low and rhythmic rumbling noises, it indicates that there is a problem with the exhaust system or either of the drive line components. If it is a problem with the exhaust system it could be coming from the converter, exhaust pipe, or muffler. Each of these could become a serious problem and you should not delay in bringing your vehicle in for repairs.

Knocking

If you hear a recurring knocking or pounding sound, it may mean that there is a problem with your vehicles connecting rod bearings, crankshaft, or transmission. Each of these could be a serious threat to the safety and performance of your vehicle and needs to be taken care of right away.

Clicking

A clicking sound can indicate a few different things. It might mean that there is a bent or loose fan blade, or that you have a loose wheel cover. It could also indicate that your oil levels are low or one of your valve lifters is stuck. These problems can become serious if not remedied in a timely manner, so if your vehicle is clicking, bring it in as soon as you can.

If you pay attention to the noises your car is making and have them taken care of in a timely manner, you will keep your vehicle running in peak condition, prevent further damage and more expensive repairs, and prolong your vehicle’s road life. So, the next time your vehicle speaks to you, listen closely to what it has to say.

If you are hearing any of the noises listed above, bring your vehicle into the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Call (602) 266-0200 or schedule an appointment online.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Fuel Pump

Your vehicle is made of many components that work together to keep it running smoothly. One such component is the fuel pump.

Most people are aware of the existence of the fuel pump, but they don’t give it much thought. However, as the fuel pump plays an important part in ensuring your vehicle operates efficiently, it should not be ignored.

What is the purpose of the fuel pump?

As you know, your engine is on the opposite side of your vehicle than your fuel tank. The fuel pump, which is located either next to or inside of the gas tank, is meant to bring fuel to the engine of your vehicle. Modern vehicles are equipped with an electrical fuel pump which transfers a continuous stream of fuel at the correct pressure and volume from its fuel tank to the fuel injection on its engine. This is what allows the engine to perform properly under various driving conditions and degrees of fuel consumption. If your fuel pump is properly cared for, it can last for the life of your vehicle.

How can you take care of your fuel pump?

As we stated above, your fuel pump is likely to last for the life of your vehicle, so long as it is properly cared for. But how do you take care of a fuel pump? The answer is actually very simple- keep your car fueled up. It is recommended that you never let your fuel level drop lower than a quarter of a tank. The fuel that is in the tank helps to keep the fuel pump cool. If your tank is allowed to get to empty, the fuel pump can overheat. If you continuously allow the tank to get too low the fuel pump will eventually wear out.

Another way to help maintain your fuel pump is to change your fuel filter, which is located in the fuel line, as recommended. You can find specifics on your vehicle in your owner’s manual, but a general recommendation is around every 50,000 miles. The fuel filter helps clean the fuel that goes to the injectors. The less dirt and debris that collects and builds up on your fuel pump, the longer it will last.

How can you tell there is something wrong with the fuel pump?

There are a few things that indicate there may be a problem with your fuel pump including:

  • A noise coming from the pump area
  • Long engine crank before starting
  • Lack of power
  • Stalling
  • Vehicle fails to start regardless of the motor turning over

Unfortunately, in some cases, there may not be any warning signs. However, if you are performing regular maintenance and keeping your gas tank filled past a quarter of a tank, you shouldn’t have any problems with the fuel pump.

If you are noticing any of the above complications with your vehicle or to schedule regular maintenance, we invite you to schedule an appointment with the experts at Virginia Auto Service. Call us at 602-266-0200 or schedule your next appointment online.

 

What Does ASE Certified Mean?

In the automotive industry, there are a lot of different organizations and certifications. The purpose of these is to hold automotive repair professionals to a higher standard. Of these special certifications, the National Institute for Automotive Excellence, or ASE, is considered one of the best.

ASE Certification has been around since 1972. According to the ASE website, they are an “independent, non-profit organization” whose purpose is to certify individual automotive technicians as well as service advisers and not the entire shop. Certification is given after a series of tests, and the skill level and ethics of each individual are observed. To become an ASE Certified location there must be several mechanics and supervisors that are ASE Certified on site. We are proud to say that, here at Virginia Auto Service, most of our automotive repair professionals are ASE Certified.

When you find a shop or technician that is ASE Certified it gives you a little insight into the level of expertise the professionals who work on your vehicle have. The certification offers our customers proof of our knowledge and abilities, allowing you peace of mind when you leave one of your most valuable possessions in our care.

To even qualify for ASE Certification, an automotive tech needs to have at least two years of on-the-job training or one year of on-the-job training and a minimum of a two-year degree in automotive repair. If these qualifications are met, then the technician can take the certification tests. These are not easy, and really test a person’s automotive repair and technology knowledge. In fact, the ASE website states that one in three test-takers will not pass the test on their first try.  After a technician is ASE Certified, they are required to retest every five years. This helps to ensure that they are knowledgeable in even the most up-to-date auto repair technologies. There are more than 40 separate tests, which are designed by a panel of automotive repair experts, that focus on different automotive repair specialties. These specialties range from collision repair to school buses and more. It’s easy to see why ASE Certification is a true symbol of excellence in the automotive repair industry.

To learn more about ASE Certification and how it is beneficial to you as the consumer, as well as to us as professionals, you can check out the ASE Certification website here. Or, feel free and ask any of our ASE Certified technicians on your next visit to Virginia Auto Service. It would be our pleasure to expand on what the certification means to you and us.

The team at Virginia Auto Service is happy to provide our community with the best automotive maintenance and repair. For over 20 years we have been Phoenix, Arizona’s go to shop for quality, reliable automotive care. Call us at 602-266-0200 or schedule your next appointment online.

What are people saying about Virginia Auto Service?

  • “Stopped over for an oil change, Robert was very helpful and arranged a shuttle ride back to work and someone picked me up when my car was ready. A full inspection was done complete with pricing to complete other maintenance needed on my car. I will be using Virginia Auto Service again in the future. By far the most convenient oil change I have ever gotten.” -Margaret Lucero, Phoenix, Arizona
  • “The service performed on our vehicle was again top notch! We will be returning without hesitation when the time arises. Their location couldn’t be any better, it’s within a perfectly comfortable walking distance from our house. “-Andrew Jamrogiewicz, Phoenix, AZ

 

How to Change a Flat Tire

If there is one thing every driver should learn to do, it’s how to change a flat tire.

Today, with technology like cell phones, getting help in an emergency is a lot easier than it used to be, but knowing how to help yourself is still important. There is always a possibility that your phone may be dead or that you are beyond the range of service. So, even if you have roadside assistance, there may come a time when you simply must know how to change a tire yourself.

The good news is changing a flat tire really is not that challenging when you are properly prepared.

 

The Tools You’ll Need

Every driver should keep a roadside emergency kit in their vehicle at all times. Among other items, the tools you’ll need for a tire change should be included.

  • Your vehicle owner’s manual
  • Working spare tire
  • Lug wrench
  • Jack
  • 2 in. x 6 in. piece of wood to secure the jack
  • Wheel wedges
  • Rain poncho and/or winter coat
  • Flashlight and working batteries
  • Gloves

We always stress the importance of checking your spare tire’s inflation along with your others, and when it comes time to use it you will understand why. The last thing you want when you have a flat tire is to also have a flat spare!

How to Change a Tire

With a little know-how, changing a flat tire is not overly complicated. Review your owner’s manual to learn steps that may be specific to your vehicle. Also, consider practicing changing your tire at home in your driveway a few times, just to make sure you can handle it when you need to. In total, changing your tire shouldn’t take any more than 15-30 minutes.

Here are 18 steps to changing a tire:

Reduce your speed. If you are driving when you develop a flat tire, the first thing you need to do is start slowing down. Do not slam on the brakes, instead, slowly reduce your speed by gradually removing your foot from the brake.

Turn on your hazard lights. Your hazard lights, or emergency flashers, should be turned on the moment you begin slowing your speed to pull over. This helps to alert other drivers that you are likely trying to make your way off the road to pull over, allowing them to maneuver accordingly.

Pull over to a safe location.  Look around you for an expanse of road that is straight and level and has a broad shoulder. If you can make it to one, a parking lot or something similar would be the ideal place to change a tire. You want the ground to be level to help prevent your car from rolling while you change it. Avoid pulling over where the road curves and choose a straight stretch so other motorists can see you more easily.  Do not change your tire on a constricted shoulder where there is bound to be traffic. Stopping in too narrow a spot will increase your chances of being hit by another vehicle. Instead, move at a slow pace until you locate a spot with a wide shoulder for safety. Driving on a flat tire may increase your chance of damaging your rim, but that is preferable to endangering your life.

Engage your parking (emergency) brake.  Using your parking brake will help minimize the chances of your car rolling while you are changing your flat tire.

Place the wheel wedges. Wheel wedges are to be used for your safety, again preventing the vehicle from rolling. You place the wedges either in the front of or behind your tires, depending on the location of the flat. If your flat tire is in the back of the vehicle, place the wedges in front of the tires at the front of the vehicle. If the flat is in the front of the vehicle, then place the wedges behind the back tires. If you don’t keep wheel wedges in your vehicle, large stones or bricks are a good substitute.

Take off the hubcap. Most tires have a hubcap over the lug nuts, which is more easily removed before you lift the car with a jack. Removing the hubcap using the flat side of your lug wrench works on most vehicles, however, some require another tool.  Refer to your owner’s manual to learn the correct way to remove your hubcap ahead of time so you are properly prepared when the time comes.

Loosen (but don’t remove) the lug nuts. With your lug wrench, rotate the lug nuts to the left (think “lefty loosey, righty tighty”) until you notice a break in resistance- about a quarter to one half of a turn. It may be necessary to use a lot of muscle, which is just fine. Put all your weight behind it if you need to. Do not fully remove the lug nuts at this time.

Place and use your jack. Position the jack under your car’s frame next to the tire that is flat. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct placement of the jack on your vehicle. Place the two-inch by six-inch piece of wood beneath your jack before you lift your vehicle. This will help to keep it from settling and becoming unbalanced. Doing this is exceptionally helpful on the asphalt. Once the jack is properly and safely positioned begin raising your car until the flat tire is around six inches off the ground. For your safety, do not go under the vehicle while the vehicle is raised.

Remove the lug nuts. It is at this point that you should finish removing the lug nuts. Because they have already been loosened, they will likely come loose easily by hand.

Remove the tire. Grab the flat by its tread and gently pull it until it comes off the hub. Set it down on its side to avoid having it roll away.

Place your spare tire on the hub. After the flat has been removed you can put the spare tire in place. To do this, line up the rim with the lug bolts. Gently push the tire until the lug bolts are showing through the rim.

Begin tightening the lug nuts. After the tire is placed you can begin to tighten them by hand. Tighten them as far as you can get them manually.

Begin to lower your vehicle and finish tightening the lug nuts. Using your jack, lower your car down to where the spare rests on the ground without the weight of your car resting on the tire. Then, tighten the lug nuts the rest of the way using the lug wrench. Use your whole body and tighten them as much as you can.

Finish lowering the vehicle. After the lug nuts are nice and tight, lower the vehicle the rest of the way to the ground and then remove the jack. Then, use the lug wrench on the lug nuts one more time, ensuring that they are as tight as you can get them.

Place the hubcap. If you had a hubcap to remove, now is the time to replace it, if it fits with your spare.

Pack away your tools.  If your hubcap doesn’t fit on your spare place it, the wheel wedges, your jack, wrench, and flat in the trunk or other storage space of your vehicle.

Check the spare tire pressure. You want to make sure your spare is safe to drive on by checking its pressure. Mini or temporary spares usually need 60 psi. If your spare needs air, slowly drive to a gas station to fill it right away.

Fix or replace your flat tire. Don’t delay in replacing your flat tire. The temporary mini-spares aren’t made to drive at high speeds and shouldn’t be driven on for long. Cautiously drive your vehicle to a professional tire technician as soon as possible.  They can determine if the tire is salvageable or if it needs to be replaced.

Having the knowledge you need to change a tire is important, however, regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing a flat in the first place. Remember to always keep your tires inflated properly, watch for tread wear, and rotate your tires per the guidelines set in your vehicle owner’s manual. You may not be able to completely prevent a flat, but these things will certainly help to extend your tire’s life.

If you have any automotive concerns, please don’t hesitate to call on the experts here at Virginia Auto Service.  Call 602.266.0200 or schedule an appointment online.