Welcome to our News & Tips Blog!


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!

Affordable Water Pump Repair in Longmont

The function of a car’s water pump is simple: to cycle coolant to the radiator to prevent the engine from overheating. Internal blades send coolant through the engine and into the radiator to be cooled before starting the cycle over. This basic part is essential to proper engine function. If you suspect your water pump is wearing out, have the ASE certified mechanics at Best Auto Repair in Longmont inspect and replace it before more damage is done.

4 Signs that a Water Pump Needs Repair

  1. Whining noise from engine that gets louder when accelerating. Most likely caused by a loose pulley or worn out bearings inside the water pump.
  2. Red or green puddle under your parked vehicle. When the pump’s gaskets and seals deteriorate, coolant will start to leak.
  3. Frequent high temperature readings on the engine gauge. When the water pump stops doing its job, the engine will start to overheat.
  4. Radiator producing steam. This is the last, and biggest, warning sign of a broken water pump. Don’t risk causing more extensive damage to your engine by driving your overheated vehicle- call a tow truck instead.

Fortunately, water pumps typically last a long time in newer vehicles but, just like any other engine component, they are not impervious to failing. If you notice any of the above signs that point to a damaged water pump, the experienced staff at Best Auto Repair in Longmont can quickly diagnose and, if necessary, replace any broken parts in your vehicle.

If, unforunately, your engine does need a major repair, we currently have a special running in the local Valpak for $25 off any service over $250 or $50 off any service over $500. Click here for the coupon.

Fast Engine Mount Repair in Longmont

There are many potential reasons for odd noises or movements emanating from your vehicle’s engine; one of which is a broken engine mount. Engine mounts secure the engine to the chassis and dampen the constant vibrations caused when the motor is running. Best Auto Repair in Longmont has experienced technicians to quickly diagnose the cause of unusual car sounds or shakiness, and will expertly repair the problem- be it a broken engine mount or other damaged part.

Top 3 Signs of a Broken Engine Mount

  1. Clunking Sound- Thuds or banging noises coming from your engine, particularly when going over bumps, is probably the most common sign of a damaged mount. Impact noises are also noticeable when accelerating.
  2. Significant Vibration- Since one of the main functions of the engine mount is to absorb engine vibration, if the rubber component is worn then you may notice some increased shaking in the cabin.
  3. Engine Movement- If you suspect that a mount is broken, you may want to observe how stationary the engine is when running. A properly secured motor will not move up, back nor side to side in the bay.

As you can imagine, keeping the engine stable is critical for proper function, and if a mount is damaged then other components are being stressed and could fail sooner due to the added strain. If you notice any signs of a broken engine mount in your vehicle, bring it to the ASE certified technicians at Best Auto Repair in Longmont for a quick diagnosis and fix! Don’t delay addressing a small repair and risk having it turn into a major problem- call us today at (720) 652-7272!

Wheel Alignment for Safe Handling this Winter

Wheel alignment longmontNow that winter weather has arrived, rough driving conditions have also. Potholes wreck havoc on your vehicle’s suspension system. Having proper wheel alignment improves handling and prevents premature wear on your tires. For fast and precise wheel alignment, bring your car into the expert mechanics at Best Auto Repair in Longmont.

5 Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment

  1. Uneven Wear on Tires- If you notice more wear on either the inside or outside edge of the tire, this is a definite indication of misalignment.
  2. Squealing Tires- If the tires are tilting too far outward or inward (positive or negative camber), or if they are angled toe-in or toe-out, then there will be uneven pressure on the tires.
  3. Pulling to One Side- When traveling down a straight road, try briefly letting go of the steering wheel to test if your vehicle angles off to the right or left.
  4. Unusual Steering- Another sign of misalignment is if your steering wheel shakes or is difficult to maneuver. The wheel should also return to center smoothly and easily after making a turn.
  5. Sideways Movement- If when watching from behind, you see the car move sideways when pulling away and the wheels are pointed straight, this points to all four wheels needing adjusted.

Best Auto Repair uses Hunter’s HawkEye Wheel Alignment System to precisely align your vehicle’s tires with state-of-the-art cameras. This system also generates a visual analysis of the alignment before and after adjustment; see the example above. If you suspect your car is out of alignment, don’t wait and risk prematurely wearing down your tires- make an appointment today for a free alignment check at Best Auto in Longmont!

Quick Repair for Oil Leaks in Longmont

Oil Leak LongmontIf we see puddles under our parked car, our first thought is most likely to be: oil leak. And that is usually the case, but keep in mind that if the liquid is red, green or orange then it’s probably a transmission fluid or coolant leak. If you suspect your car has an oil leak, bring it to the ASE certified mechanics at Best Auto Repair in Longmont for a quick diagnosis and fix!

Signs of an Oil Leak

  • Blue smoke coming from the tail pipe: usually from oil falling on the exhaust manifold
  • Brown spots under the car: when the oil pan gasket has deteriorated and started to leak
  • Low oil levels: if the leak is small, then this will most likely be the only sign
  • Smell of burning oil: when the leak comes in contact with a hot surface
  • Engine overheating: if the oil level gets low enough, this will most likely be a result

You might be wondering if it is safe to drive with an oil leak? Lubrication is essential for the smooth operation of your vehicle’s engine, so maintaining an adequate oil level is critical. Oil, along with the coolant, is also vital in keeping the engine cool and when an engine overheats, there is potential for significant damage. If oil is allowed to leak onto other components of the engine, these parts may also fail and need to be replaced.

Oil leaks should not be ignored. If addressed quickly, oil leaks are usually a simple repair but if delayed, the problems can multiply and become dangerous. Ensure the smooth and safe function of your vehicle and have any suspected oil leaks assessed by the professional mechanics at Best Auto Repair in Longmont as soon as possible!

Posted in Oil

Save on New Windshield Wipers Just In Time for Winter Weather

Windshield Wipers Coupon LongmontOne often overlooked but critical part of your car are its windshield wipers. We tend to take them for granted until they start leaving streaks and making it even more difficult to see through the windshield! Besides ensuring good visibility, keeping your windshield wipers in good repair is also important to prevent any scratches on the glass due to exposed metal on the blades. Don’t risk your safety on the road this winter, come into Best Auto of Longmont to get your windshield wipers replaced quickly and economically.

There are two main styles of wipers: conventional rubber blades that fit into a spring-tension frame, and beam blades that incorporate spring steel into the rubber. Another option are winter wiper blades that have a boot covering the external frame to prevent snow buildup.

When to change windshield wipers in Longmont?

    • A good rule of thumb is to change the blades every six months, usually before winter weather hits and then again in spring.
    • It’s best to replace the front and rear blades at the same time.
    • If your vehicle has headlight wipers, check those more frequently since they encounter more debris.
    • If the wipers are not effectively clearing your windshield, check the rubber for chips, splits and make sure they’re still flexible. If so, then cleaning them with windshield washer fluid or dishwashing soap should do the trick!

 

Other simple ways to ensure you will be able to see clearly out of your car this winter is to keep the windshield washer fluid topped off, and apply a rain repellent. Rain repellents not only make water roll off faster but also help prevent ice from sticking to the windshield.

Replacing the windshield wipers on your vehicle is a fast and inexpensive way to stay safe in winter driving conditions. Come into Best Auto of Longmont now through the end of the year to take advantage of our Buy 1, Get 1 Free deal on NAPA wipers!

How to Tell If Your Car Needs New Spark Plugs

Spark Plugs LongmontAs Colorado car owners, we all know that starting up the engine during winter is a little rough. Cold weather can be especially hard on spark plugs, so if your car is not running smoothly bring it to the expert diagnosticians at Best Auto Repair in Longmont to see if a new set of plugs is all you need!

Spark plugs are a small part of the engine but essential because without them, your car is not going anywhere. Since they are utilized every time we start our vehicles, it is understandable that they eventually wear down. Two common problems are fuel residue buildup and a lengthening between the electrodes. When the plugs start to show their age, or a faulty one is installed, there are some telltale signs that they need replaced.

6 Signs that Your Car Needs New Spark Plugs

  1. Slow to start- If your ignition is sluggish, worn out spark plugs are just as likely to be the reason as a low battery.
  2. Engine jolts- When too much air is taken in during combustion, the engine may surge right before decelerating, which is another sign of a faulty plug.
  3. Engine hesitates- Opposite from surging but also caused by a bad plug, your engine may pause for a second while driving due to improper firing of the cylinders.
  4. Weak acceleration- Old spark plugs can also diminish the normal rate of acceleration you expect from your vehicle.
  5. Rough idling- If your engine is rattling or jerking when you’re stopped, the plugs most likely need replaced.
  6. Higher fuel consumption- Fuel economy can be reduced by 30% when spark plugs are not efficiently performing combustion.

Faulty or old spark plugs will effect the performance of your car’s engine, but fortunately a new set is an inexpensive and quick fix- so drop by Best Auto Repair of Longmont today to ensure smooth starts this winter!

Car Tune Up for Winter Driving

car maintenance LongmontNow is the time to be sure you are prepared for winter driving conditions before the first snowstorm hits. Be sure your car is stocked with an ice scraper, jack, cat litter, chains and an emergency kit including flares, flashlight and blankets.

The items on the checklist below are suggestions from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, through whom our mechanics are certified. Some of these tasks can be performed by the owner, but others are best left to professionals. For a thorough pre-winter inspection, bring your vehicle to the ASE-certified technicians at Best Auto Repair in Longmont.

Maintenance Checklist to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

  1. Engine Performance: If your vehicle is having trouble starting, stalling or idling roughly, these problems will be exaggerated by cold temperatures.
  2. Battery: Assess overall condition and inspect for leaks.
  3. Heater: Test heater output to ensure passenger comfort, and and defroster function for driver visibility.
  4. Windshield Wipers: To guarantee rapid ice removal, replace worn blades with rubber-clad models and make sure washer fluid is full.
  5. Lights: Check that all lights are in good working order.
  6. Tires: Inspect tires, including the spare, for low tread, irregular wear and any cuts on the sidewalls.

Safety is everyone’s utmost priority on the road, and the best way to ensure your vehicle is in top operating condition is to bring it in for regular maintenance. A tune up before cold weather hits is a smart idea. Call Best Auto Repair of Longmont today to schedule a tune up service and drive with confidence once the first snow flies!

Fast Car Heater Repair to Stay Warm on the Road

Car Heater Repair LongmontWith Fall just around the corner, many of us are already using our vehicle’s heater on these chilly mornings. Did you know that besides causing an uncomfortable commute, car heater problems can also cause the defroster to fail or the engine to overheat? Because the heating system is connected to other safety features, it is critical to get any problem with the heater repaired quickly and expertly by experienced technicians like those at Best Auto Repair in Longmont.

5 Most Common Car Heater Problems

  1. Coolant Leak- If there isn’t enough heated coolant getting to the heater core, then it won’t be able to generate enough hot air to push through the vents. There are several places where coolant can leak including cracked hoses, worn seals and corroded gaskets.
  2. Coolant Contamination- The heater core will also not work properly if the coolant contains too many contaminants, such as rust. This is an easy fix, though, consisting of just a system flush.
  3. Broken Thermostat- This part’s job is to release coolant when the engine reaches a certain temperature so if it is not working, only cold air will flow into your car.
  4. Broken Blower Fan- When no air comes through your car’s vents, then some piece of the blower fan is to blame- usually either a motor problem or faulty switch.
  5. Malfunctioning Heater Core- A lot of condensation inside your car indicates a problem with the heater core. Because of its position underneath many other parts, replacing it will cost the most out of these listed heater repairs.

If your car heater is showing signs of failing, don’t wait to get it assessed and repaired- waiting could cause much more serious damage if the engine overheats. Most car heater repairs do not take long to complete and don’t cost a fortune. The ASE-certified technicians at Best Auto Repair in Longmont can rapidly get your car heater working again to keep you warm on the road!

Ignition Problems and Repair in Longmont

Ignition problems LongmontWhen you turn the key in your car, you expect it to start instantly but there are several links prone to failing in the chain of events required to get your vehicle’s motor running. A gear on the starter engages with the flywheel to get the engine to turn over, after which fuel is let into the combustion chamber for ignition. If you notice your car displaying any of the following warning signs, bring it into Best Auto Repair in Longmont for an ASE certified technician to quickly solve your ignition problems.

 

5 Common Ignition Problems

  1. Faulty Ignition Switch- Usually this part is the culprit if it’s taking awhile for the engine to start, the dash lights flicker during ignition or if the key becomes hard to turn.
  2. Broken Starter- If you hear loud or multiple clicks when turning the key, the starter is probably not engaging with the flywheel to get the motor going.
  3. Bad Alternator- When the alternator starts to fail, the battery will not be getting fully charged and will not be able to generate the spark needed for ignition.
  4. Failing Fuel Pump- If your vehicle is randomly jerking or accelerating in short bursts, most likely the fuel pump is not properly delivering gas from the tank to the engine. Clogged fuel injectors can also prevent enough gas from reaching the combustion chamber for ignition.
  5. Short Circuit/Blown Fuse- Smoke coming from under the engine means the starter is overheating due to either receiving continued power or continuing to run after the engine has started.

If your car is showing any signs of having trouble starting, it’s best to schedule a diagnostic appointment to avoid being stranded with an engine that won’t turn over at all. The experienced mechanics at Best Auto in Longmont can quickly resolve any ignition problems and get you back on the road in a reliable vehicle!