Auto Repair News and Tips from Best Auto Longmont

News & Tips

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Best Auto of Longmont loves to share auto repair and service tips and other news worthy information, as we are truly passionate about what we do best! Thanks again for visiting our website, and we hope to see you down at the shop sometime soon!

Signs of Failing Shocks or Struts

Posted on 2018-05-29 by Traci

Most of us have experienced hitting a pothole or speed bump while driving, and we all know how that can cause a vehicle to bounce. But does your vehicle seem to bounce around at the slightest bump? Not all vehicles are created equal when it comes to the quality of the ride. For example, a Jeep may have a tighter suspension, making it feel bouncier, as opposed to a Cadillac, which will ride much smoother. Nobody knows your car better than you, the driver, so if you notice the quality of your ride has deteriorated and your driving experience has become bumpier, it could be a sign of failing shocks or struts.

Key Symptoms of Failing Shocks/Struts

Leaks – The fluid in the reservoir helps control the wheels and the body of the vehicle. If the seals that surround the shaft start to leak, it will affect the shock’s ability to function, so any sign leakage is a good indication that your suspension may need work.
The “Body Roll” – If your car tends to have a leaning feel when making even the slightest turn, this is what is known as the body roll. Not only is this a sign that you may need suspension work, it’s also a safety concern. Have your vehicle inspected right away if you experience this issue.
Squatting – Upon accelerating from a dead stop, your vehicle’s front end may appear to rise a bit due to the momentum being transferred to the rear of the vehicle. This is known as squatting and is a result of bad shocks.
Nose Diving – Nose diving refers to the response of your car while braking. If the front end of your car seems to point down when applying the brakes, or takes a nose dive, this is a sign of failing shocks or struts.
Visible Damage – Visible damage can include dents and cuts, or leaks in the seals. It can also include uneven tire wear due to tire bouncing, caused by bad shocks and struts.

If you notice any of these issues with your vehicle, it’s important to have your car’s suspension inspected. The
ASE certified techniciansat Best Auto of Longmont can perform a comprehensive inspection and make any necessary repairs to get your ride running smooth again.

Make Your Car Ready For Summer

Posted on 2018-04-28 by admin

As the weather gets warmer, we typically get busier. Colorado winters can linger, so when the snow starts to melt, and the temperatures rise, we start planning for the months to come. From cookouts to road trips, we welcome the summer and all it has to offer. But while we enjoy those hot, dry, sunny days, our vehicles may not. Dust, heat, stop and go traffic, they all can have a negative impact on your vehicle, therefore, it’s best to work with an experienced auto mechanic to ensure that your car is ready to beat the heat. The ASE certified mechanics at Best Auto of Longmont can do just that!

STAY COOL

It’s important to have the automobile’s air conditioning system checked. If the system isn’t working properly, then it could likely fail, especially in hotter weather. The a/c system should be maintained and serviced by a licensed auto technician.
The cooling system should be evaluated. Overheating is the leading cause for breakdowns during the summer, so checking fluids and maintaining this system is necessary in keeping your vehicle on the road.

THE ENGINE

The engine is the life of the vehicle. Changing filters and correcting minor issues are crucial in keeping your vehicle on the road. A professional auto technician knows best when it comes to servicing your engine.
Oil changes should be performed regularly, as recommended by your vehicle’s service manual. The average oil change is typically every 3,000 miles.

BRAKES AND TIRES

Brakes should be inspected regularly. If you experience changes in your brakes’ performance, or notice any grabbing, grinding, or squeaking, address the problem immediately, as prolonging service can cause greater issues.
Tires can really have an impact on your vehicle and its performance. A tire rated for summer will not only offer better handling and greater speed, but optimizes fuel efficiency. As with your car’s engine, tires should be maintained on a regular basis. Check tire pressure every month, examine the tire tread, and have tires rotated every 5,000 miles.

VISIBILITY

Worn windshield wiper blades need to be replaced as to minimize any hazards associated with poor visibility. Make sure that the windshield cleaning fluid is full.
Keep the lenses on your lights clean and free of bugs, dust, and debris. Inspect the lights and replace bulbs that are out.

GENERAL SAFETY

Keep an emergency road side kit in your trunk. These generally include flares, a flashlight, jumper cables, etc. First aid kits are also good to have on hand, along with blankets and jugs of water.

Preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping your vehicle on the road. Don’t take any chances this summer. Let the experienced staff at Best Auto of Longmont guide you through your maintenance and service needs.

Save on a New Car Air Filter for Spring Cleaning Your Engine

Posted on 2018-03-23 by admin

car air filter Longmont Did you know that “just one aspirin worth of dirt can wreak havoc on the internals of the engine, to the tune of 30,000 miles worth of wear”? The engine air filter has the critical job of keeping the thousands of gallons of air clean that go into the engine for every gallon of fuel. If the air entering the engine is dirty or at a reduced flow, then fuel economy, performance and even the engine’s life expectancy will be dramatically lowered. Why leave such an important job to chance? Come into Best Auto of Longmont now through April and receive $15 off an oil change with the purchase of a qualifying NAPA car air filter!

Important Components of a New Car Engine Air Filter

Construction: Non-woven, usually paper, filters are the most commonly used by vehicle manufacturers. Other aftermarket filters are made from cotton or foam and are designed for modified or performance vehicles. Factory-replacement paper filters create a large filtration area in a small frame with a pleated arrangement.
Filtration: Pay the most attention to the filtration level when buying a replacement, as stopping dirt and all sorts of debris (including bugs) from entering the engine is the main, and most important, job of a filter.
Flow: Manufacturer recommendations vary between 10 to 12,000 miles for replacing a paper-style filter, and every 50,000 for a cotton-gauze unit. When a filter becomes clogged, it prevents air from getting into the engine, which will decrease performance.

If you are curious about the current state of your engine’s air filter, it is relatively easy to locate and inspect in most modern vehicles. A large flexible tube connects the engine to the air box, and access to the air filter inside is usually secured with easily-removable spring clamps or screws. Test the filter by holding it up to a light and if barely any shines through, it is definitely time to replace. Don’t neglect this inexpensive replacement that can save you so much in the long run- especially when you can take advantage of Best Auto’s current special of $15 off an oil change with a new car air filter!

Need a New Oil Filter? $15 Off Oil Change Now thru April!

Posted on 2018-03-09 by admin

oil filter Longmont Oil filters were first designed in the 1920s and were made out of perforated plates covered with fabric inside a hard shell. The shell also included a small viewing window to monitor the flow. Prior to this, cars did not have filters at all until pressurized lubrication made them necessary to prevent damage from ricocheting particulates. The first automobiles to present day models have all had to deal with the problem of combustion contamination. Best Auto in Longmont understands the importance of replacing your vehicle’s filters regularly, and is offering a $15 discount on an oil change when you purchase a qualifying air filter now through April!

Today’s oil filters have made several strides in technology since the first fabric version. The fabric was replaced with thin, pleated paper or cellulose to maximize both flow and filtration with the increased surface area. In addition to the paper and cellulose options, filters made of synthetic fibers or fiberglass are now available. The other big changes have centered on the casing, progressing from a cartridge design to the modern spin-on installation.

Choose an Oil Filter for How & Where You Drive

A premium filter, such as NAPAPLatinum, is best when towing, idling in traffic, driving in mountainous terrain or harsh temperatures and road conditions.
A high-performance filter, such as NAPAGold, is designed for stop and go traffic, short trips, interstate travel and hot weather.
An economy filter, such as NAPASilver, is perfectly adequate for normal driving conditions and daily travel around town.

Remember, engine oil serves two important purposes: lubricating and cooling all the moving parts but also keeping the engine clean- and it can only do that effectively if the oil filter is in good shape. The oil filter is a small part that is worth its weight in gold for prolonging the engine’s performance and longevity. Trust our mechanics to find the right oil filter for your vehicle and take advantage of Best Auto’s current special of $15 off an oil change when you buy a quality NAPA air filter!

Fast Transmission Repair in Longmont

Posted on 2018-02-28 by admin

transmission repair longmont As car owners, we expect smooth performance from our vehicle so when it starts jerking, shaking or making grinding noises, we immediately know something is wrong. Often those symptoms are an indication that there is a problem with the transmission and it is important to have the issue diagnosed early. The experienced and knowledgeable staff at Best Auto in Longmont will quickly diagnose the problem and efficiently make any needed transmission repair so you can get back to your smooth ride.

5 Signs Not to Ignore for Transmission Repair

Slipping– This condition can present itself in two different ways: either as a whining noise coming from the engine at the same time it feels like it randomly changes gears; or the engine seems underpowered in that it struggles to accelerate normally.
Rough Shifting– If you hear a thudding sound when the engine shifts or if shifting is noticeably rougher, then a problem with the transmission is most likely to blame for the failure to perform smooth changes in gear.
Slowed Engagement– This concerning situation occurs when you shift from Park into Drive and give the car gas but the vehicle does not immediately move forward like it should. You will most likely hear the engine rev but there will be a delay before it engages into drive.
Leaking Fluid– Transmission fluid is generally bright red (but can also be darker or even look brown) and should never leak out of its contained unit. If you notice red leak spots under your car, do not try to refill transmission fluid on your own because overfilling can cause more severe problems.
Warning Light– If the transmission warning light comes on, then the computer has generated an error code that should be checked by a auto repair shop.

Best Auto in Longmont has the diagnostic equipment and experienced mechanics to quickly resolve any needed transmission repair. Unfortunately, transmission problems can be one of the more expensive services your vehicle may need (up to $2,500) but it may turn out to be a relatively simple fix as well, costing around $150. If a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary, ask what the warranty is- the industry standard is 12 months or 12,000 miles. Also ask the shop where the new parts will come from to be they are from a high-quality brand like NAPA.

Source: https://www.angieslist.com/articles/5-transmission-problems-you-cant-ignore.htm

Power Steering Rack Repair & Replacement in Longmont

Posted on 2018-02-16 by admin

power steering rack Longmont Power steering is something that car owners take for granted nowadays, but if you notice that the wheel is slow to respond or whines when turned, don’t wait to get it checked out! As a certified NAPA AutoCare Center, Best Auto in Longmont can handle any power steering rack repair or replacement with ease. External steering system components are much likelier to wear out before internal components but the interior sometimes does require service and the most common rack problems are listed below.

Power Steering Rack Problems

Seal Failure: There are many O-rings used to seal lines and valves inside the long tube of the steering rack. These seals have to withstand pressure exceeding 2000 psi when the hydraulic fluid runs through the spool valve to assist the piston on either side of the steering rack. These O-ring seals are prone to failing due to the extreme pressure.
Damaged Hydraulic Lines: If the lines are cracked or have weak spots, a leak is highly probable.
Pump Failure: When the power steering pump fails, metal shavings usually get released through the lines causing further damage.
Misaligned Mesh Setting: Where the pinion gear rides on the rack is a mesh setting that can get out of alignment and result in hard or loose steering.
Stripped Threading: In units where the steering shafts extend out the end, the rack is at risk of being damaged here or having the threads strip over time.

When a new power steering rack is installed, new power steering fluid needs to be purged to remove air pockets in the system and the fluid level should be rechecked in a few days in case additional bubbles were released during driving. NAPA also recommends installing a magnetic inline filter at the time of a new rack purchase to protect all components from future debris damage. It is also critical that a vehicle’s alignment is checked after any work is done on its power steering system since permanent tire damage can occur within 100 miles while driving with a misaligned suspension.

Replacing a rack takes on average 4-6 hours and while not physically difficult, cleanliness is paramount to guarantee the repair lasts. The experienced and ASE-certified mechanics at Best Auto in Longmont can quickly diagnose and repair or replace your vehicle’s power steering rack if needed.

New Spark Plugs Fast

Posted on 2018-02-02 by admin

new spark plugs Longmont

For such a tiny component of the ignition system, spark plugs play a big role and can cause even bigger problems when not working properly. According to AA1Car, “No spark means no combustion, wasted energy, increased emissions, loss of performance, idle roughness, hesitation, hard starting and possibly even a no start if all of the plugs are affected.” Best Auto in Longmont has the knowledgeable ASE-certified technicians to quickly diagnose an ignition problem and get your vehicle running smoothly again with new spark plugs.

FAQ of New Spark Plugs

What exactly does a spark plug do?

Voltage between 4,000 to 28,000 volts travels down the center of the plug, ionizing the air between electrodes on the end to form a spark. The spark only lasts a millisecond and occurs at the same time the piston reaches the top center of its compression stroke, starting the burn.

Why is the heat range of a spark plug important?

If a plug runs too hot, it increases the chance of engine-damaging preignition or detonation. If it runs too cold, then fouling deposits may build up during extended idling and low speeds. Most manufacturers use a copper core, which allows for a broader heat range, but it is still important to make sure the range is appropriate for the engine application.

When are new spark plugs needed?

Plugs that have electrodes made of platinum, iridium or other wear-resistant alloys can last more than 100,000 miles, whereas standard plugs only last for 30,000 to 45,000 miles. Upgrading to extended life spark plugs is worth the cost when they improve ignition reliability and overall engine performance and reduce the need for maintenance.

What is the most common spark plug problem?

Fouling is the #1 reason why spark plugs need to be replaced. When fuel deposits build up on the plug electrodes, the voltage is prevented from jumping the gap to make the spark. Did you know that just one fouled plug can decrease the power of a four-cylinder engine by up to 25%? This will also result in a large increase in fuel consumption and emissions.

If your engine cranks but will not start or runs but misfires, bring your vehicle into the experienced mechanics at Best Auto in Longmont for a quick diagnosis and replacement with new spark plugs that are longer-lasting!

New Car Battery Guide & Special

Posted on 2018-01-15 by admin

new car battery Longmont A dependable battery is essential not only to prevent needing an inconvenient jump start but also to prevent the alternator from overworking. When a new battery is needed, car owners want to find an affordable option that will be reliable and long-lasting- the experts of Best Auto in Longmont have provided some helpful tips for deciding on a new car battery.

Guide to Choosing a New Car Battery

Amperage Ratings

Cranking Amps (CA): amperage measured at 32F
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is the most significant measurement, and should carry the most weight when comparing factors for choosing the best battery. It rates how much amperage is sustained for 30 seconds at 0F, without going below 7.2 volts.
Reserve Capacity (RC): duration 25 amps is held at or above 10.5 volts
Amp Hour (AH): The amperage capacity, usually just provided for deep-cycle batteries. (Deep-cycle batteries are used in boats, golf carts and show cars.)

Battery Types

Lead Acid:

Flooded: Within this most common type of lead acid design, most are sealed and require no maintenance but some, especially in classic cars, are conventional and need to be refilled occasionally.
Gel: Instead of using water for the electrolyte base like in flooded types, gel batteries use a thickened gel which helps keep the plates covered and stop a leak should the exterior break.
AGM: Absorbed Glass Mat batteries are the most efficient, separating the electrolyte with fiberglass to keep it in constant contact with the lead plates- even upside down!

NAPA’s Legend series employs the superior AGM design to resist freezing longer and provide a longer lifespan than conventional flooded or gel batteries.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMh): Used in hybrid vehicles, these batteries charge fast but also discharge fast when the car is idle. Composed of a hydrogen-absorbing alloy and nickel oxyhydride for the negative and positive sides.

Lithium Ion (Li): More efficient than NiMh batteries and capable of holding longer static charges, lithium batteries are used in high performance vehicles but are not suitable where the temperatures drop below freezing.

Best Auto of Longmont is running a special on qualifying NAPA batteries now through February- buy a high-performing new car battery and get a $20 Visa Prepaid Card! Don’t get stranded in freezing temperatures this winter- come in to get your battery tested and save on a new one if needed.

Time for New Headlights?

Posted on 2017-12-30 by admin

new headlights Longmont Few driving situations are more stressful than trying to navigate at night with weak headlights. Proper lighting is so important for visibility- both for the driver to see and be seen by other drivers! Faulty headlights will start showing signs that indicate they need checked- see the top three symptoms listed below. And since headlights are so important for safety on the road, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle into the trusted mechanics at Best Auto in Longmont for a quick diagnosis and repair.

Top 3 Signs Your Car Needs New Headlights

Dimness– The most surefire sign that a bulb is nearing the end of its life is that it shines noticeably dimmer. Low illumination is not a condition you want to drive with for very long since properly functioning headlights are critical for safety.
Flickering– When the filaments start to wear out or become damaged, you will most likely notice the lights flickering on and off. This is a sign that the bulb will burn out very soon or it could also be a symptom of a bad connection so bringing your vehicle in as soon as possible for an inspection is a good idea.
Burn Out– Obviously if one headlight has completely failed, it makes sense to get both replaced at the same time since the opposite light will be approaching the end of its serviceable life as well. Headlight bulbs usually last for a significant amount of time but they will eventually wear out, which is yet another reason to schedule routine maintenance service and prevent impending burn outs.

There are as many types of headlights as there are car models- they come in numerous shapes, sizes and designs. Finding an auto repair shop with a large selection of bulbs in stock, or the ability to order some quickly will prevent a long wait at the shop. Headlights are one of the most important safety features on a vehicle, so if your car is showing any of the above symptoms of failing bulbs, don’t delay in having it diagnosed. The ASE-certified technicians at Best Auto in Longmont can quickly determine if your vehicle simply needs new headlights or if the lighting problem is due to a bigger electrical issue- call for an appointment today!

Winter Auto Tune Up Service

Posted on 2017-12-19 by admin

auto tune up Longmont Looks like the official 1^st day of winter will bring with it a long-lasting cold front for the end of 2017. To prevent the headache of car problems on your daily commute and holiday travels, be sure your vehicle is ready for winter weather! The ASE-certified mechanics at Best Auto in Longmont will conduct a thorough winter auto tune up service at an affordable rate.

5 Cold Car Problems Avoided with an Auto Tune Up

Dead Battery– Keeping cars out of the cold overnight is ideal, however if you don’t have access to a garage, having the battery tested is even more important. Batteries are most reliable between 30 and 90F, so checking the level before winter weather hits will ensure dependable starts every morning.
Thick Fluids– When the temperature drops below 35F, the transmission performance will slow down. For your vehicle to run properly, fluids need to flow quickly so check the levels of oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake in addition to the transmission fluid to make sure there are adequate amounts to move through the systems.
Tire Pressure Drops– For every 10 degrees that the temperature drops, 1 psi of pressure is lost. Under-inflated tires are more prone to being damaged and a safety concern, particularly when the roads are covered in snow and ice. Of course, the best option, if feasible, are winter tires but keeping the pressure up in your all-season tires is a close second.
Wipers Fail– Unfortunately, wipers are not capable of clearing accumulated snow and ice from the windshield- that’s still a job for the car owner. Wiper transmissions can also break due to frozen washer solvent. And since the blades are just made of rubber, they will breakdown sooner in harsh conditions and need to be replaced.
Spark Plugs Weaken– You can count on some hard starts when the weather is freezing, and if a spark plug is already damaged or older then your engine may not turn over reliably.

Many of the problems listed above can be prevented by catching them during regular maintenance. Don’t get caught in the cold- call Best Auto of Longmont today to schedule an extensive yet inexpensive auto tune up service this winter!

Source: https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/five-ways-cold-can-damage-your/22612192