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!

Power Steering Problems and Solutions

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Power Steering LongmontPower steering was one of the best technological advantages in the automotive industry, and one that we usually take for granted! The latest advancement in this area is electric power steering, which adds an electric motor to the steering system and helps improve fuel economy. However, most cars on the road today still have a hydraulic system that uses fluid to take pressure off internal mechanisms, thereby allowing the driver to turn the wheel with less effort.

Since steering is the main way that drivers control their vehicle, regular maintenance is essential to ensure smooth maneuverability and safety on the road. Best Auto Repair in Longmont is the top local mechanic to maintain your car’s power steering as part of its regularly scheduled service and to quickly repair any power steering problems.

3 Signs of Power Steering Problems Needing Service by Auto Repair Shop

  1. Vibrating Steering Wheel

    Hydraulic pressure based systems are powered by a serpentine belt, which also runs the alternator, radiator fan and air conditioning compressor, and vibration will occur if this belt is slipping from its pulley or torn. If your power steering problem is caused by a malfunctioning drive belt, a mechanic will pinpoint the problem area on the belt by identifying where in the turning radius the wheel starts shaking.

  2. Difficulty Turning the Steering Wheel

    If it’s taking a lot more muscle to turn your car than it used to, low power steering fluid is often the problem, although low tire pressure or poor alignment can also be to blame. A puddle of pink or amber liquid beneath your car is a telltale sign of a power steering fluid leak.  Replacing the steering fluid as part of regular maintenance by an auto repair shop is important because over time the fluid will become contaminated from normal wear and tear on the hydraulic system.

  3. Whining Noise When Turning

    Loud groaning noises when you steer left or right are a sign that some mechanical part of the hydraulic system is failing. Sometimes the noise is just due to low power steering fluid, but it often indicates that the pump itself is damaged and needs replaced.  For this car repair, having a highly trained technician inspect the system for leaks or damages is crucial.

So if your steering feels rough or is producing unusual sounds, trust the experienced mechanics at Best Auto Repair in Longmont to expertly diagnose and quickly repair any power steering problems.

Finding a Great Auto Repair Shop in Longmont

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Where do you go when looking for the best?  If you’re like a good majority of American’s you turn to Consumer Reports to get a reliable source for “the best”  products and services.  Their article “How to find a great car mechanic” offers some very sound advice on doing just that. The reason we recommend all car or truck owners read this article is that Best Auto Repair fulfills nearly all their suggestions!  So here is a list of reasons you should choose the best and most trusted auto repair shop in Longmont—Best Auto Repair.

  1. Independent auto repair shops often provide a higher level of customer service than a dealership service department. At Best Auto we truly are proud of the level of customer care we provide.  We want you to know that you are getting our full attention, your car is repaired or maintained according to our strict quality standards, using only the best mechanics and NAPA parts.  Most of our customers are loyal repeat clients who refer others our direction.
  2. Our shop holds a certificate from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE. Yes, our mechanics qualified and experienced.   But they are also certified mechanics!
  3. What does the Better Business Bureau have to say about Auto Repair Shops?  If an auto repair shop doesn’t hold a good standing with the BBB, you should consider that a warning.  Particularly in the auto repair line of work, the BBB ranking matters.  Best Auto Repair Longmont holds a stellar ranking that we are proud of.
  4. If you want to know if you’re at a reputable and trusted auto repair shop, ask about their warranties. A good mechanic backs up their work with a solid warranty.  And that’s exactly what we do at Best Auto Longmont.  We stand by our work!
  5. Convenience can also play a big role in your choice when looking for a good mechanic or car repair shop. We know you lead a busy life and don’t need the hassle of running to and from, playing phone tag with the front office, and practically jumping through hoops just to get your car fixed.  Best Auto is centrally located in Longmont.  We promise prompt and friendly service—short turn around time gets you back on the road and back to your life as quickly as possible.

Finding a good mechanic can feel overwhelming, if not impossible.  The next time you are in need of a car or truck repair or maintenance, please consider Best Auto Repair in Longmont.  Let us earn the position of “best mechanic in Longmont” for you.  The affordable quality car care you can trust.

Muffler, Exhaust Service and Repair Done Right

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Exhaust of a car on the bridge at a auto repair shop with a mechThe basic purpose of an exhaust system, including the muffler and all components, is to reduce noise and carry harmful fumes away from your vehicle.  If you have a good exhaust system it will perform quietly and efficiently without a thought from you. For your safety and the safety of those who travel in your car, it is essential to have a functional exhaust that is examined and maintained regularly.  In order to have that blissfully quiet vehicle, make sure to have your muffler, exhaust service and repair done right.

Best Auto Repair Longmont offers quality exhaust, muffler repair and replacement.

Best Auto Repair of Longmont offers a full line of exhaust and muffler services and top quality replacement systems. When having your exhaust repaired or replaced, it’s a good idea to have a professional mechanic with experience handle it.  A good auto repair shop will be able to accurately diagnose your exhaust needs and offer several choices in repair and replacement options while keeping your time, budget and convenience in mind.

Some signs that your muffler and exhaust system is in need of repair are quite obvious, the loud noise, funny smell, visible rust or bent pipes.  But don’t wait until the noise and/or fumes drives you crazy before heading to a car repair shop.  Driving on broken exhaust systems can damage other key components of your vehicle and lead to more expensive repairs.  I minor fix is always better than a complete replacement!

Having your car, SUV, truck or minivan examined regularly will provide a great deal of peace of mind.  The ASE certified mechanics at Best Auto Repair Longmont have you covered.  We are the muffler and exhaust system experts.  We do standard replacement exhausts as well as upgrades to high performance exhaust systems for maximum power.  Have one of our mechanics assess your vehicle today.  Our basic review will include

  • Examining the muffler for holes, rust, overall wear
  • Checking all mounts are secure
  • Assess condition of catalytic converter
  • Checking manifolds and gaskets for cracks, wear tear

Best Auto Repair Muffler and Exhaust System Services

Mufflers: Both stock replacements and high performance

Exhaust Pipes/Tailpipes: Pre-bent and ready for install and pipe bending for custom exhaust.

Catalytic Converters: Keep those emissions in check!

High Performance and Custom Exhaust Systems

Engine Repair Service| Auto Repair in Longmont

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Car Engine Repair LongmontA car engine is an amazing mechanical wonder. It performs the core, or central function of any vehicle. Without a properly working engine, your car is nothing more than a shell. It’s important to make sure that the engine of any vehicle is running safely and efficiently.  When you have engine troubles, you will want to find a trusted and experienced engine repair auto shop to work on it. Best Auto Repair is the engine repair and auto rebuild specialist in Longmont. We offer the most comprehensive engine diagnostic and repair services, with the most competitive prices.

Many newer vehicles come with check engine light.  A computerized diagnostic system can efficiently identify the source of many engine issue (or issues related to auxiliary components). Those warning lights can be helpful but they can be an indication of something as simple like a loose gas cap, or something much more serious.  The only way to find out is to have a reputable auto repair shop take a look for you. Let Best Auto run your engine diagnostics so that you can be certain you are not being led into unnecessary repairs.

But what happens when you have an older vehicle that does not come with such a handy warning light to indicate a problem?  This is when you really need to rely on the expertise of an auto repair technician.  We hire only the best auto mechanics (always ASE certified and highly trained) so you can be sure that our assessment is thorough and complete.   We recommend regular check-ups and maintenance on any vehicle so that we can catch any needed engine repairs before they escalate to bigger, more expensive repairs.  Some warning signs of poor engine performance are: unusual noises, thumps, knocking, decreased fuel economy, failed emissions tests, loss of power, and “rough running”.

Trust Best Auto Repair in Longmont for all your engine work!  We service all makes and models of cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our ASE certified auto mechanics keep you informed during the entire engine repair or engine rebuild process so you’ll know exactly what we are doing, how much we estimate it will cost, and the expected timeline of repairs.  We are so confident you will be pleased with your engine service and repair that we back it up with a warranty!  Call us today. 720-652-7272

Proper Wheel Alignment – Best Auto Repair Longmont

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Wheel Alignment LongmontJust how important is proper wheel alignment? We know it can be yet another item on your to-do list—make sure tires are properly aligned.  But, as auto care specialists, we can tell you that, yes, it’s very important to keep your wheels in good condition and aligned.

Tires, and many other car repairs, are not cheap.  No one wants to have these expensive auto parts wear out before their time.  Poor wheel alignment can lead to problems with your brake shaft, suspension system, steering system, and more.

Just driving in Colorado can do a lot of damage to your wheel alignment.  Hitting potholes, driving over chunks of snow and ice on the road, accidentally hitting a curb.  All of these can lead to alignment issues.

Why Get Your Wheels Aligned?

  • Reduces Tire Wear, (adding thousands of miles to the tire life!)
  • Improves Gas Mileage
  • Improves Car Handling
  • It’s Environmentally Sound
  • Makes for a Safer Driving Experience

 

Improper wheel alignment has a few very obvious signs like steering wheel pulling to one side, less responsive steering, and uneven tire wear.  But some alignment issues are not as obvious.  That’s why it’s a good idea to have your wheel alignment checked on a regular basis.  Many manufacturers don’t list wheel alignment as part of the regular maintenance schedule so it’s up to you as to how often you have it checked.  Best Auto Repair suggests having your alignment checked at least annually.

Best Auto Repair, located in Longmont, offers precise wheel alignment services for cars, trucks, SUV’s and vintage vehicles of all makes and models. We us the Hunter Hawkeye wheel alignment system to ensure the most precise alignment possible. Hawkeye is the high-definition, high precision, top-of-the-line wheel alignment system so our auto technicians can align your wheels to the exact manufacturers specifications.

If you’re experiencing any of the standard wheel alignment issues with your vehicle, or you simply haven’t had your alignment checked in a while, give Best Auto Repair in Longmont a call.

Car Tune Ups in Longmont

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Auto Tune Up LongmontVehicle tune ups are a major service for any vehicle so it’s entirely understandable that some of us choose to put it off or ignore it altogether until something starts to knock…or rattle…or stop working altogether.  If you wait until your car is exhibiting symptoms of any kind, you’ve waited too long.  Most automobile manufacturers recommend regular tune ups for a very good reason.  Vehicles are not meant to run at peak levels without being properly maintained.

If you don’t know how often you should bring your car in for a tune up, refer to your owners manual or simply give us a call.  At Best Auto we are here to help you in any way we can.  Our mechanics are both highly trained and experienced in all makes and models of vehicles.  We can use our real world experience along with your individual driving habits to determine a maintenance schedule that is tailored specifically to you—don’t let car dealerships over charge or scare you into premature services.  If you postpone or avoid getting in for a regular vehicle tune up, problems WILL come (and multiply) leaving you with huge repair bills, huge headaches, and a worn down vehicle.

General Tune Ups cover all your car’s upkeep and preventative care.  The entire air intake system should be clean and properly filtered. The electrical/ignition system should be firing correctly with an unrestricted path of electrical current. And the fuel system should maintain proper pressure to the regulator and fuel injectors.

But we don’t stop there.  At Best Auto Repair of Longmont, we pride ourselves in performing the best possible auto service.  Our tune ups include a full multi-point inspection, covering every inch of your vehicle to ensure you walk out of our shop knowing you can trust our work.  We don’t oversell, and we don’t recommend unnecessary repairs.  We know the best customer is a repeat customer.  We want to see you back for every maintenance service for the life of your vehicle.

Benefits of regular auto tune ups include:

  • Easy to start
  • Better Fuel Economy
  • Less Emissions means a smaller carbon footprint
  • Avoid costly repairs that inevitably happen with neglect
  • Peace of mind that your car is reliable, dependable, and safe!
  • Greater resale value

 

We aim to be the auto repair and services shop of choice in Longmont.  We know that drivers can see significant savings while enjoying quality repair services (backed by a guarantee!) by bringing their vehicles to Best Auto Repair in Longmont.  Schedule your vehicle tune up today.

Pre-Purchase Inspection and Emissions

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If you are considering buying a used vehicle, Best Auto Longmont has a couple of pointers to help guide you in your purchase. For one, many car buyers are unaware that their used vehicle must undergo a Colorado emissions test before being registered. Here at Best Auto Longmont, we have seen car owners bring in a recently purchased used vehicle and find that it requires hundreds of dollars in repairs to pass the Colorado emissions test. Many times these repairs are centered in problems with the catalytic converters or the evaporation system. When purchasing a used vehicle, you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of these necessary repairs. In fact, most people don’t know that the seller is required to provide a passed emissions test to the purchaser. Don’t just buy your car ‘as is’; instead, Best Auto Longmont recommends that you ask the seller to provide you with a passed emissions test form if they have not. It is the seller’s responsibility and is an assurance to you as the purchaser.

Also, if you’re considering buying a used vehicle, the Best Auto Longmont team suggests coming to us for a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. Much like the emissions form, the pre-purchase inspection is another way to provide you piece of mind about the reliability of your vehicle before you purchase it. During the pre-purchase inspection, Best Auto Longmont will evaluate the suspension, heating and cooling, drivability, fluids, wires and hoses, and more. This way you can know the state of the vehicle and whether or not there may be potential problems hiding under the surface. Best Auto considers the pre-purchase vehicle inspection a simple and easy way to make sure the used vehicle will be worth your while.

A passed emissions test form and a pre-purchase inspection are two easy steps you can take before purchasing a used vehicle. Best Auto Longmont considers these steps an easy way to give you piece of mind in your decision to buy a used vehicle, and can alert you to potential problems in the vehicle before you invest in it. Getting a passed emissions test from your car seller and a pre-purchase inspection at Best Auto Longmont can assure you that you’ve made the right decision before purchasing your vehicle.

Troubleshooting A/C

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Now that the heat of the summer is upon us in Longmont, we’re using our car air-conditioning all the time to keep things dry and cool. However, there are a number of problems that can affect the air-conditioning system in your vehicle that can make relief from the summer air hard to find.

Of course, the easiest thing to notice if your air-conditioning isn’t running optimally is if the air never becomes very cool as it blows from the vents. To check your car’s temperature, turn on the car and set your A/C to the coldest setting (also “recirculating”). Put a thermometer in the vents and wait a few minutes—anywhere around 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit is normal. If not, your A/C may have a problem.

In addition to that, you could notice water pooling on the bottom of your car. It is unlikely that this water pooling is a leak from the roof of your car, so be sure to check your A/C system if there is water pooling on the carpet. This means that your air-conditioning system’s drain line is clogged and all that condensation has found its way to your floor! This can also cause foul, musty odors in your car as it becomes humid. A clogged A/C drain line can also become a breeding ground for mildew and fungus.

If you’re noticing any of these problems with your vehicle’s A/C this summer, stop by Best Auto Repair Longmont to have one of our technicians take a look. It’s usually a quick fix, so you don’t have to suffer too long in the summer heat!

Preventative Maintenance

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There are many common problems that can happen to your vehicle that are costly to fix. Engine replacement, engine parts, and frequently needing new tires can all happen. However these problems are the result of small, overlooked maintenance that can really help your car with little time and effort. Preventative maintenance is very cheap whereas large fixes can run into the thousands. The importance of preventative maintenance with your vehicle really comes down to your safety and the longevity of your car. One of the most common is remembering to do an oil change in your car before it’s too late. Some cars have larger oil pans than others, however the rule of thumb of getting it changed every three months or three thousand miles usually holds true, but if your car manufacturer says differently in your owner’s manual, follow their instructions.

After this point of 3 months or three thousand miles, the oil becomes too dirty to be effective and will heat up parts of your engine, eventually wearing out or warping essential components. At a certain point the entire engine must be replaced (yikes!). However, oil changes are quick and cheap. Another way to save a lot of time and money is to regularly check things like tire pressure and alignment checks. This will make your car run more efficiently, and wear your tires evenly so that you don’t need to replace them as much. Remember that Best Auto provides free alignment checks, so if you think your car’s alignment may be off please stop by! Best Auto can also send you automatic preventative maintenance reminders for things like oil changes based on your estimated driving mileage.

 

Air Conditioning Assessment

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It’s just starting to heat up here in Longmont, and though we’re still getting snow, it’s a good time to start thinking about your vehicle cooling system. Stop by and get a quick assessment of your vehicle’s cooling system before the summer weather really hits. We get a lot of calls once the temperatures really rise, so by stopping in ahead of time you can be ahead of the rush. Being stuck with no air conditioning can really making driving unpleasant, and instead of being stuck in a hot car for a few days make sure your air conditioning is already in full working order before you need it. Your air-conditioner’s lack of use over the past few (chilly) months means that it could have stopped working without you knowing. This happens to a good deal of customers, however you never know your air-conditioner isn’t working until it fails on you! One symptom of bad air-conditioning is low refrigerant, which keeps your AC working nice and cool. Best Auto Longmont can top off or replace your refrigerant for you if this is causing problems for your AC system. If you have a refrigerant leak we can as well fix that for you, so that later in the summer you won’t find yourself having to get your refrigerant replaced. It’s also good for your car, your wallet, and the environment to fix refrigerant leaks as soon as possible.


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720.652.7272

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Best Auto Longmont
695 Boston Ave
Longmont, CO 80501
Phone: 720.652.7272

Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday - Sunday
Closed