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Auto Repair Phoenix Arizona

Vehicle Safety: What Consumers Need to Know

76.9 Percent of Vehicles on the Road Have Potentially Dangerous Issues 

What Consumers Need to Know to Keep their Vehicle and Passengers Safe

(PHOENIX, Arizona) April 3, 2014— Last week a Gilbert man lost his whole family when the tire blew out on the vehicle they were driving, causing it to collide with an ongoing semi on I-10 between Tucson and Phoenix. While it’s not known at this point what was wrong with the tire, accidents like this are too common and many can be avoided by just taking some simple preventative measures.

It’s easy to understand why there’s so many vehicles with potentially dangerous issues.  According to the US Department of Transportation, there are 253 million registered vehicles on the roads in the United States. According to the Chicago Tribune, with the latest 4.8 million vehicle recall by General Motors, “in 2014 the automotive industry is on pace to surpass the historic high of 30 million vehicles recalled in 2004.”  That’s a shocking 11.8 percent of all vehicles in the US being under some sort of recall for potentially dangerous if not fatal, issues. And the problem is, according to Edmunds.com, millions of recalled cars with potentially dangerous issues are being driven on the roads today simply because the owners have no idea their vehicle has been part of a recall.

There are other issues with vehicles on the road as well

  • 76.9 percent of vehicles on the road right now are in need of some sort of service
  • 22% have low or incorrect engine oil
  • 20% of vehicle have an issue with the engine cooling systems
  • 18% of vehicles need brake service  (Source: Car Care Council)
  • 80% percent of cars are driving on underinflated tires

Matt Allen, owner of Virginia Auto Service, an-award winning auto repair shop in Phoenix, Arizona, offers the following advice to vehicle owners who are concerned about keeping their vehicle (and passengers) safe while driving.

  1. Check to see if your vehicle is on a recall list:  Go to the National Highway Traffic Safety website where you can search by the year, make and model of your vehicle to see if it’s on a recall list.
  2. Check your tire pressure once a week. Make sure the tire pressure is the same pressure that’s written on the label inside of your car door, not the pressure written on your tires.
  3. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance plan.  Preventative maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to maintain the safety of your vehicle by catching issues before the turn into full-blown problems.
  4. Check your oil level once a week. Make sure you check it when the vehicle is cold, before you have started it up. Add the proper oil as recommended by your manufacturer.
  5. Keep your vehicle clean and clear out the trunk. Believe it or not a clean vehicle is a safer vehicle. Washing removes obstructions to viewing. Extra weight in the vehicle can also be a hazard when driving.

To assist consumers in making sure their vehicle is safe, in honor of April being National Car Care Month, Allen is offering free vehicle safety inspections. Simply take your car to Virginia Auto Service, and they will check the recall list as well as do a complete inspection of your vehicle checking the problem areas such as brakes, tires, oil, and cooling systems. If your car is on the recall list, Virginia Auto Service will take it to the dealer for you.

The free safety inspections run through the month of April and no purchase is required. An appointment is required.  Contact Virginia Auto Service at 602-266-0200 for more information.

 

Virginia Auto Service has won numerous awards including Motor Age Magazine Top Shop, AZ Central’s Reader’s Choice for Best Auto Repair in Phoenix and the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Impact Business of the Year for Response to Adversity. Owner, Matt Allen, has been an advisor on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Automotive Advisory committee since 2000 and served as the Chairman in 2008 and 2009. For more information visit www.virginiaautoservice.com.

 

Owner Matt Allen co-hosts the Bumper to Bumper radio show on Saturdays from 11 am. – Noon on KTAR 92.3 FM in Phoenix. Reach Matt at 602-266-0020 and [email protected].

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The Top 4 Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Arizona

Auto accidents happen every day throughout the state of Arizona. The experience of being in one yourself is frightening, especially when injuries are involved. More than half of all road traffic deaths occur among people between the ages of 16 and 44. In 2018 alone Arizona reported more than 127,000 motor vehicle accidents. To keep yourself safe as a driver, it is important to understand the top 4 most common causes of car accidents in Arizona.

most common causes of car accidents phoenix, az
  1. Speed Violations. Failing to obey the posted speeding regulation is the biggest cause of car accidents in Arizona. You will be in a hurry from time to time, like being late for work or an appointment. But it is never worth the risk to drive in speeds exceeding the posted limits. These speeding regulations are put in place to protect both yourself and others who are driving or walking on the roadways. Accidents related to speeding violations accounted for 33 percent of all Arizona auto accidents in 2018. Speeding is one of the most preventable causes of Arizona auto accidents.
  2. Distracted Driving. Using your cell phone while driving, not looking at the road because of music playing in your car, or some other form of distraction is another dangerous driving habit that causes accidents. Arizona just recently became the 48th state to ban cell phone use while driving. The amount of Arizona auto accidents caused from distracted driving in 2018 is estimated to be 25 percent. These accidents are totally preventable if you always make sure to keep your eyes on the road.
  3. Failure to Yield. It is imperative that you pay close attention to traffic lights, stop signs, and yield signs. The Arizona state legislature thoroughly explains the right of way laws. This includes yielding to other drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Car crashes in Arizona resulting from failure to yield accounted for 17 percent of auto accidents in 2018. According to Arizona laws, drivers should adhere to the following guidelines:
    • Two Vehicles at an Intersection. When two vehicles approach the same intersection from different streets at the same time, the driver on the left must yield the right of way. The only exception to this rule is when a driver is entering a highway and when the vehicle on the left is travelling on a continuing street, and the driver on the right is on a road that ends, like when entering a highway.
    • Controlled Intersections. Motorists must obey all traffic lights, stop signs, and yield signs at a controlled intersection. Always look before entering an intersection and carefully drive through a green light at a steady speed. If you come to an intersection with a stop sign, come to a complete stop, and make sure the path is clear before continuing to drive.
    • Uncontrolled Intersections. An uncontrolled intersection is one that doesn’t have a traffic light or stop sign, or the traffic signal is inoperative. You should approach this intersection as if it is a 4-way stop. If two vehicles enter the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left must yield the right of way to the driver on the right.
  • Impaired Driving. Driving under the influence of recreational or prescription drugs and alcohol continues to be a big cause of disastrous auto accidents in Arizona. You are responsible for knowing the legal blood alcohol content level in Arizona of 0.08 percent, and subsequent penalties for receiving a DUI. Driving while impaired severely limits your driving abilities and reaction times and is also one of the leading causes of driving fatalities. Alcohol related crashes accounted for 3.7 percent of all Arizona car accidents, and 26 percent of all fatal accidents in 2018. If you are going to go out and drink, be sure to have a designated driver with you.

These are the most common causes of car accidents in Arizona. The auto experts at Virginia Auto Service want to ensure the safety of every one of our customers, and the people in our community. If you are in the Phoenix area and have any care or repair needs for your vehicle, give Virginia Auto Service a call at 602-266-0200 or schedule an appointment with us online at your convenience.

What Kind of Oil Should I Use in My Audi?

The type of oil you use in your Audi can have a dramatic impact on your vehicle’s performance and reliability.

According to Audi: “All Audi engines must always use engine oils that conform to the applicable Audi Oil Quality Standard. No other engine oils may be used. This also applies when topping off engine oil between services.”   Read more: Audi Approved Engine Oil

Audi recommends that you always carry a spare quart of Audi approved engine oil just in case your vehicle needs to have the oil topped off while you are traveling. Please store extra oil securely in its original container in the trunk of your car where it cannot be disturbed, or accidentally opened.

At Virginia Auto Service, we used premium Liqui Moly motor oil made in Germany especially for German made vehicles like Audi.

The following brands of oil are just some of the oils approved by Audi. For the complete list, please read the Audi Technical Service Bulletin for 17 Engine Oils Approved by Audi.

  • Castrol
  • Castrol Edge Professional
  • Castrol SLX Professional Longtec SAE 0W-40
  • Castrol Castrol SLX Professional OE SAE 5W-30
  • Castrol Castrol Syntec European Formula SAE 0W-30
  • Castrol Castrol TXT 505 01 SAE 5W-40
  • Castrol Castrol Syntec
  • Mobile
  • Mobil 1 SAE 0W-40
  • Mobil Mobil Syst S Special V SAE 5W-30
  • Quaker State
  • Q European Engine Ultra Diesel SAE 5W-30
  • VW 502 00 Quaker State Q Horsepower Full Synthetic SAE 5W-40
  • VW 502 00 Quaker State Q European Formula Ultra SAE 5W-30
  • VW 502 00 Quaker State Q State Synquest Low SAPS

Contact us at 602-266-0200 to get a Free Second Opinion or

Schedule an Appointment Online.

Volkswagen Service, Phoenix, Arizona, Virginia Auto Service

Virginia Auto Service provides complete VW Service in Phoenix

Sean is an ASE Certified Technician and a VW enthusiast. He knows Volkswagen vehicles inside and out and is one of the best  VW mechanics in Phoenix!

Virginia Auto Service provides complete Volkswagen service in Phoenix, Arizona.

Here’s what people are saying about Virginia Auto Service! 

“I always passed by this place on my way to work. I was due for an oil change and decided to stop to have my car serviced. My concern with going to a new mechanic is to ‘not get taken for’ doing work that does not need to be done, etc.. But with this place, I felt at ease, seemed honest and only advised on what your car should need and not need. Friendly, professional, clean, and what was very convenient was that a very friendly guy named ‘Bergie’ took you to your work and back”  -Bernard G., Scottsdale, Arizona, via Yelp.

Why choose Virginia Auto Service for Volkswagen service & repair in Phoenix, Arizona?

  • Service while you work! Drop off your VW for service in the morning, and we’ll take you to work. Then we’ll pick you up when you’re ready.
  • We don’t try to sell you repairs you don’t need.
  • Free second opinions.  If you have an estimate from another auto repair shop bring it to us and we’ll give you a second opinion for free.
  • Experienced and certified VW mechanics. Our mechanics have an average 20 years’ experience and we require all of our mechanics to be ASE and/or manufacturer certified. They know what they are doing.
  • Friendly and helpful service advisors. We know you don’t work on cars every day and so we take the time to educate you about what’s going on with your car and why.
  • Clean, modern stop with the latest tools and technology.  Whether you have a late model Volkswagen or a classic, we have the correct computer equipment, tools and knowledge to do the job right.

Call us today at 602-266-0200 to get a free second opinion about your recommended Volkswagen service or schedule an appointment online.

Where to Find Top Tier Gasoline in Phoenix, AZ

Many vehicle manufacturers recommend that you only use “Top Tier” gasoline to refuel your vehicle.

Where to find top tier gas in Phoenix

What is Top Tier Gasoline?

Top Tier gasoline has added detergents that minimizes deposits on fuel injectors, intake valves, and combustion chambers which helps your engine to burn cleaner. This reduces wear and tear on your vehicle as well as is good for the environment.

In order to be approved as Top Tier the gasoline must be rigorously tested. Only gasoline that meets that Top Tier standards is approved as Top Tier gasoline.

Top Tier Gasoline retailers in Arizona include:

For more information about Top Tier gasoline retailers in Phoenix go to TopTierGas.com.

Call us today at 602-266-0200 to get a free second opinion about your recommended service or repair or schedule an appointment online.

4 Common Power Steering Problems to Watch Out For

common power steering problems

Make sure you know these warning signs to keep your power steering operating smoothly.

The job of the power steering unit in your car is to make steering easier and the various components work together to achieve this goal.  The power steering unit is a hydraulic system that uses the build-up of pressure to push the wheels in the direction indicated by the steering wheel.  If one of the components isn’t working properly, the pressure may not be able to build-up properly instantly making the car much more difficult to steer.   But loss of pressure isn’t the only power steering problem your car can experience.  Here are the most common power steering problems so you know when it is time to see your repair technician.

  1. A Leak in the Power Steering Unit

A leak within the power steering unit is the most common power steering problem.  There are some easy to recognize signs that you have a power steering fluid leak.  The first is that you will see fluid on the ground on the driver’s side of the car after it has been parked there for awhile, similar to what you would see with an oil leak.  Another sure sign that you have a leak is a car that makes a grinding noise whenever it is turned.  This indicates there is a serious problem with the level of power steering fluid that must be addressed before the car is driven.  Failing to do so can cause serious damage.

  1. A Drive Belt that is Slipping, Worn, or Loose

The second most common power steering problem is a slipping, worn, or loose drive belt.  If you hear a loud screeching noise whenever you make a sharp turn, there is a very good chance your drive belt is slipping.  In newer cars, this may be a problem with the serpentine belt, which is used instead of a drive belt.  Get this problem fixed as soon as possible to avoid damage.

  1. A Cracked, Peeling, or Worn Hose

One of the most common sources of power steering fluid leaks is damaged and worn-out hoses.  The hoses convey the power steering fluid throughout the system.  Over time, they can become cracked or damaged, begin to peel, or simply wear out.  If you are driving and it suddenly becomes very difficult to steer, there is a good chance a busted hose is to blame.  The best way to avoid a leak is to routinely inspect your power steering hoses, especially once your car has been in use for several years.

  1. The Hose Coupling is Creeping Off

Over time, the coupling on the hose that carries the power steering fluid throughout the unit can begin to creep off.  You should be able to identify this problem with a simple visual inspection.  If the coupling creeps all the way off, you will lose power steering fluid and experience the problems above.  If the coupling seems to be creeping, take it in and have the tech at your repair shop check it out.

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7 Signs You Need Your Brakes Checked

signs you need your brakes fixed

Follow these tips to make sure your car brakes are working properly, especially when you need them!

Everyone knows how important it is to get your oil changed, but this is only one of the important maintenance tasks you need to perform regularly to keep your car running and on the road.  Another important maintenance task that is not necessarily as well known is getting the brakes checked.

Your brakes are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment on your car and it is critical that you keep them in good condition so that they can perform when you need them to.  But most of us don’t speak the same language as our brakes.  This means we can’t tell when they are trying to let us know that something is wrong.

Here are 7 signs that something may be wrong with your brakes.

  1. You press the brake pedal, nothing happens

If you press down on the brake pedal and the car doesn’t slow down or stop, this is a sure sign that there is something wrong with the brakes.  Use your transmission to downshift and slow the engine and try not to hit anything.  Then, read the rest of these signs so that you will know what to look for next time so you don’t let it go until your brakes stop working all together.

  1. Illuminated Brake Light or Indicator

You may not even realize that you have a brake light in your dash, but most modern cars have a light whose sole purpose is to indicate that there is a brake problem.  This light can indicate that your brakes are worn down, that the anti-lock brake system isn’t functioning, or that you have the emergency brake on.

  1. Stuttering

If you feel the car stutter when you press the brakes, even if it seems to be stopping normally, you need to get the brakes checked.  This can indicate that the brakes are worn down and is a precursor to brake failure.

  1. Change in Pedal Pressure

If you realize that you have to press the pedal down much harder than you used to in order to engage the brakes, you need to have them checked.  The same holds true if the opposite happens, and the pedal is hard to depress.

  1. Screeching And Squealing

Another sure sign that there is a problem with the brakes is hearing tell-tale screeching noise whenever you hit the brakes.  This indicates the pads have worn down and that you need to get them checked and replaced before other brake components are damaged.

  1. Black Dust

Finally, if you notice black dust on you rims, it can signify a problem.  This dust which is also called brake dust is a sign that the brakes are worn down and need replacing.

  1. Time

If you are lucky and you haven’t had any issue with your brakes that required them to be checked for the last 12 months, it is a good idea to take it in and have a tech check them out.

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Three Common Heat Related Car-Problems in Phoenix, Arizona

With summer temperatures in Phoenix regularly exceeding 100 degrees, your vehicle is undergoing a lot of excess wear and tear. It is best to do some preventative maintenance checks throughout the summer and make some special considerations to keep your car functioning optimally. Here are 3 common car problems often experienced in Phoenix, Arizona’s summer heat.

common heat related car problems phoenix, az
  • Blowing out a tire. As the air temperature increases, so does the pressure in your car’s tires. A change in internal air pressure can make tires more susceptible to getting blown out while you are driving. To avoid tire problems in the summer heat, do the following:
    • Keep tires properly inflated. A big difference between daytime and night-time summer temperatures can cause the air pressure in your tires to fluctuate. Check the air pressure in your tires, making sure the pressure doesn’t exceed the recommended amount based on your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendation. Because tire pressure is so critical in the summer in Arizona, you should check your car’s tires daily, first thing in the morning.
    • Check tires for wear and tear. Asphalt on the roadways can reach scalding temperatures in the summer. You should regularly inspect your tires for loss of tread, punctures, bulges, or tears. Replace faulty tires immediately.
    • Clean and treat tires and wheels. Regularly applying a good tire dressing will protect your tires from dry rot or cracking on the scalding hot roadways.
  • Damaged hoses and belts. Hot temperatures will increase the likelihood that one of your car’s belts or hoses is faulty. You can look under the hood to check for any problems.
    • Check the belts for cracks, fraying, or dry rotting. Look to see if the rubber has any spots with a slick or glazed appearance that can cause the belts to slip. When the engine is cool, gently pull on the belts to check the tension level. There should be no more than one half to one inch of give.
    • Check the hoses for any cracks, bulges, or leaks. Squeeze the hoses near the clamps with your thumb and forefinger. Feel for any soft spots and look to see if any fluid is leaking. It you see a hardened, glassy surface on any of the hoses, this is a sign of heat damage. Replace any faulty belts or hoses right away.
  • Battery problems. Summer temperatures can damage the wiring and speed up corrosion of your car’s battery. Extreme heat can also damage the internal structure of the battery by causing fluids to evaporate. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and then clean them with a wire brush. You should also look for any signs of swelling in the battery case. The voltage of the battery should be checked by an automotive professional to make sure that it falls within the desired range. Since a faulty battery can cause problems to your car’s electrical system, be sure to replace it immediately.

Virginia Auto Service will take care of all your summer auto service and repair needs in Phoenix, Arizona. We have won some prestigious awards that recognized us for our leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence. Just schedule an appointment online or call us at (602)-266-0200.

Know Your Rights in Arizona When Pulled Over by the Police

At some point, just about everyone is going to get pulled over by the police. Since every situation is different, it is important that you know your rights as a driver, and the best way to handle a traffic stop. As a disclaimer, we are not attorneys, but have thoroughly researched the law in Arizona to give you the most accurate information and what to expect when stopped by the police.

what to do when you're pulled over by the police in Arizona
  • You have the right to safety. When you see an officer driving behind you with the car lights flashing, you are supposed to pull over right away. But you are not required to pull over on a busy highway or a dark, winding road if you think it looks unsafe. If that is the case, turn on your hazard lights, and start to slow down so the officer knows that you are trying to comply. Proceed a short distance until you can stop safely.
  • Officers need probable cause to pull you over. For a legal traffic stop, police need to demonstrate probable cause to take a closer look at you and your vehicle. The officer should tell you the reason you are being pulled over right away. If you are unsure about why you have been pulled over, politely ask for clarification.
  • An officer does have the right in Arizona to ask you and your passengers to step out of the vehicle. A failure to comply could result in additional charges.
  • You have the right to make a video recording of a traffic stop if for any reason you feel uncomfortable or that your rights might be infringed upon, as long as you are on public property.
  • An officer cannot search your vehicle without probable cause. If the officer has not identified a probable cause, you may assert that you do not consent to a search. The smell of marijuana coming from the car would count as a probable cause.
  • Since the state of Arizona does not require a permit to carry a concealed weapon, be sure to let an officer know right away if you have a weapon in your vehicle. The officer can take possession of your firearm but will return it once the traffic stop is complete.
  • You can refuse to take a roadside sobriety test. If an officer asks you to blow into a breathalyzer during a traffic stop, you have the right to refuse. However, be aware that Arizona has a statute called “implied consent”, which means that your driver’s license can be suspended for up to 6 months if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test. In addition, if the officer has probable cause, you can be taken to the police station or a nearby hospital to receive urine or blood tests.

Reliable car maintenance and repair with professional auto experts! If you are looking for professional and credible repair service for your car, give Virginia Auto Service a call today at 602-266-0200 or schedule an appointment with us online.

What Women Need to Know About Caring for Their Car

women car care

If you are a woman, don’t be overwhelmed at the thought of maintaining your car. Know these tips!

Even though most women are involved in deciding when to take their car in for maintenance and where it should be taken, a Jiffy Lube survey shows that these decisions may not be based on the most accurate information.  For example, only 22% of women knew that the correct tire pressure for their car was located somewhere other than the tire or wheel and nearly half of those surveyed thought that switching to synthetic oil meant you could drive more miles between oil changes.  Even minor misunderstandings like these can cause real trouble on the road.  Here are the most important things women need to know in order to properly maintain their car.

  1. Look Before You Leave

Before you back out of your driveway, there are a few things you need to check on every single day.  According to Matt Allen, you should visually inspect your tires to ensure that none of them look low or flat before you leave.  Matt also recommends glancing at your dashboard lights to make sure there aren’t any warning lights like the check engine, low oil, or tire pressure problem, illuminated.

  1. Pay Attention to Your Senses

When it comes to taking care of your car, you need to pay attention to the messages coming from all your senses.  There are many problems that you can catch early on because you can see that something isn’t working or that a light is on or you can smell something unusual or you hear a new noise or you feel the car pulling to one side or riding differently.  Don’t assume that if you don’t know cars, you can’t tell when something isn’t working properly.  Just listen to what your senses are telling you.

  1. Know Your Car

For the most part, when your car is having a problem, it will let you know.  The differences may be small or subtle at first but as the problem gets worse, the difference will be more pronounced.  If you pay attention to things like how your car handles, what it sounds like, and what kind of gas mileage it gets when it is working properly, it will be easier to see the small signs that something might be wrong.

  1. Check Your Spot

One of the most obvious signs that something is wrong is also one of the most signs most of us miss because we aren’t watching for it.  On a regular basis, you need to check the spot where you park your car to see if it has any leaks.  Cars that drip oil, anti-freeze, and even water need to be checked out at a repair shop as soon as possible.

  1. Change the Oil

Even though everyone knows how important it is to change your oil, it is still the maintenance task that is most frequently delayed.  The problem is that not changing the oil as soon as it is needed has no immediate consequences.  While you could not continue to drive a car with a flat tire or with faulty brakes, a car in need of an oil change can keep going and going.  However, eventually, it will stop going and when it does, it is very likely that you will need a new engine rather than just an oil change.

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