Top Car Care Tips for Road Trips

Posted on September 27, 2021 by autorepair

If you are planning an Autumn road trip, you have the right idea in mind! The ambient weather and changing colors of the leaves and flora will make your long-distance car trip one to remember. But before you pack up the car and hit the road, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is travel-ready. After all, you do not want to face unanticipated delays and breakdowns a long the way.

Continue below to review some of the top car care and auto maintenance tips that will help prepare your vehicle for a safe and enjoyable road trip!

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Avoid Road Trip Delays With Proper Car Care

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the majority of vehicles on the road today are more than 10 years old. If your travel vehicle is about this age, it is statistically more likely to break down. Whether you run into a dead battery issue and require a jump start or need a tow for a blown tire because you have no spare, long distance driving trips are known for unanticipated automotive malfunctions and setbacks just like these; but all of them are virtually 100% avoidable with the right preparation.

Top 3 road trip problems you can avoid with a qualified automotive pre-trip inspection:

⛮ Dead Car Batteries

One of the most frequent automotive problems experienced by long-distance road trip drivers is a dead car battery. There are many reasons why a car battery dies, but the most common cause is due to parasitic draw or drain, like accidentally leaving the interior cabin lights on all night. Other common causes of a dead car battery include problems with the alternator, starter, or electrical system.

⛮ Engine Malfunctions

Another reason why long-distance drivers run into automotive problems on a road trip is engine malfunctioning. There are many things that can go wrong within your vehicle’s engine, from gears and gaskets to belts, hoses, fans, and much more. If one of these components begins to malfunction or breaks down in any way, it can cause a problem with the engine.

Overheating car engines are common on long-distance road trips, especially during the warmer seasons. It is important to ensure that you always have an extra bottle of coolant, also referred to as radiator fluid or anti-freeze, in the trunk of your car in the case that your coolant gets low. Low coolant is the most common reason why engines overheat.

⛮ Tire Troubles

It is without a doubt that tire blowouts and flats are common automotive issues dealt with on long-distance trips. It is important to ensure that your tires are properly inflated prior to departing and routinely while traveling out on the road. Furthermore, not all cars, especially modern-day ones, come with spare tires, so you might want to consider purchasing a compatible spare if your vehicle does not already come equipped with one.

You never know when you might run over a nail or hit a pothole the wrong way. Having an extra tire on hand can get you back on the road in as little as 20 minutes so long as you have all the necessary tire changing tools. You can purchase emergency roadside kits at any local department store or through an online retailer. Such kids vary in size and quality, but for tire changing purposes you will need to make sure yours comes with a jack, torque wrench, reflective road triangles, flashlight, traffic vest, and other emergency roadside supplies.

How to Prepare Your Car for Road Trip Safety

The most effective and responsible approach to preparing your vehicle for a safe road trip is to bring it into your local Indianapolis mechanic. An ASE licensed automotive mechanic will know exactly what to inspect and what to look for when preparing for a road trip. Along with a comprehensive once-over inspection, they will make any proper adjustments and minor repairs to ensure your car is prepared for optimal efficiency and performance.

Are you ready to schedule your pre-trip car inspection with a trusted Indianapolis mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and car inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all make and model vehicles!

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4 Automotive Hacks That Will Improve Driving Safety
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Check Out These Indianapolis Auto Repair Coupons and Discounts

Posted on September 17, 2021 by autorepair

Northeast Auto Service has surpassed our local competitors in terms of deals and discounts by offering unbelievable auto repair and service coupons and competitive pricing in Indianapolis! Regardless of your automotive repair and service needs, Northeast Auto Service is sure to have the right deal for you. Continue below to check out our current car repair and auto service coupons, plus learn how to get started with a free quote today!

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Here at Northeast Auto Service, our ASE certified and licensed car mechanics have over 30 years of hands-on experience, thus retaining the expertise to solve any automotive performance problems efficiently. We have the knowledge and resources to get your car back on the road safely, and in as little time as possible. With a strict focus on integrity, honesty, and attention to detail, you can feel confident that our technicians will treat your vehicle as if it were their very own.

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Get started on all your Fall and Winter automotive service checklists now! Contact us at 317-253-3331 for dependable Indianapolis IN automotive services you can trust. We work on all make and model vehicles, including imports, luxury cars, and classics.

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Strange Car Smells and What They Might Mean

Posted on August 3, 2021 by autorepair

Sure, your car smells funny sometimes. But when it is not coming from last night’s fast food or that gym bag that’s been sitting in the back seat since Sunday, those smells could indicate a real problem. Continue reading to learn the most common types of car odors and which type of automotive problems they may signify.

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Common Car Smells

Car odors like burning rubber, burning wood, sulfur, gasoline, hot oil or exhaust, mold or mildew, and sweet smells are common types of odors that indicate an automotive problem or need for repair. Here are the reasons why these odors might be apparent in your vehicle right now, and what you need to do to resolve the issue:

BURNING

If you smell burning rubber, it could mean that your brake pads are worn down, or your tires are being overworked. If you detect burning wood smells, it could mean that your clutch is malfunctioning.

SULFUR

Sulfur is often described as smelling like rotten eggs. If you smell sulfur like odors in your vehicle, the most likely culprit is overcharging your car battery. Otherwise, it could be from a defective catalytic converter or even an issue with your fuel system.

GASOLINE

Unless you’ve accidentally spilled on yourself after filling station, if you are smelling gasoline in your car, is most likely a leak in your fuel tank. It could also be from a failing component within your evaporator emissions system.

HOT OIL/EXHAUST

If you are smelling hot or burning oil, or a smell similar to exhaust, it is most likely caused by an oil leak in your engine. Typically, this is from a defective gasket or seal.

MOLD OR MILDEW

Moldy or mildew odors in your vehicle are typically associated with air conditioning problems. Moisture or water can get trapped inside the inner components of your PC, and after some time begin to develop mold and mildew growth. These odors could also be caused by a buildup of moisture inside of your car, or because your cabin air filter is old.

SWEETNESS

If you are smelling sweet sugary cells in your car, it is often indicative of a coolant leak. Coolant is also known as radiator fluid, and it is on the most vital automotive fluids for all vehicles.

If you are detecting any strange odors or noises within your vehicle, it is important to have them looked at right away. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 317-475-1846

How to Be Eco-Friendly With Your Car

Posted on July 29, 2021 by autorepair

If we could get everyone on board to work toward a cleaner, more efficient means of living, the world would be a much better place, and for a lot longer too. With the new movement in Eco-friendly practices, we now have access to green cleaning products, Eco-friendly appliances, homes, vehicles, and more. So, there are several facets of life and living that can easily be improved in terms of leading a greener lifestyle! And one fantastic and very necessary place to start is your car.

Continue reading to learn some helpful automotive tips for an Eco-friendlier way of life.

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Environmentally Friendly Driving Habits and Practices

♻ Drive Less

Vehicles are imperative assets in our lives. They get us to work, school, and more when the time calls. But there are several opportunities to forgo driving and choose to walk or ride a bike instead. You can even choose to carpool with coworkers or friends to drive less. If you do this at least once per week, you are making a positive impact on the environment.

♻ Keep Your Car as Long as Possible

It’s tempting to trade in your vehicle for a newer model or buy a new ride after a great job promotion but keeping your current vehicle for as long as you can is actually the Eco-friendlier practice. Having less cars means fewer toxic emissions and so forth. Keep your inventory of vehicles as low as possible, for as long as you can.

♻ Properly Dispose Old Auto Parts

Car batteries that can be recycled must be recycled properly, and those that are not must be safely disposed of. Proper disposal for other car parts is important too, including old tires, motor oil, car fluids, and more. Metal auto parts can be recycled for cash at your local scrap metal yard or junkyard. All of these practices will instantly help the environment.

♻ Don’t Skip Scheduled Car Maintenance

Factory scheduled car maintenance is vital to the overall performance, safety, and longevity of every vehicle. And it also helps with the budget since it prevents costly breakdowns and repairs. Scheduled car maintenance includes routine fluid changes, filter replacements, brake service, tire service, battery service, alignments, and more.

Proper auto care reduces toxic emissions and fuel consumption, and supports a safer, more efficient operation. All this is Eco-friendly and better for the environment. Check your owners’ manual for your vehicle’s suggested service schedule and talk to your Indianapolis mechanic about your car’s individual needs.

Does your car or truck need some routine auto service or a repair? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How to Tell if You Need to Replace the Spark Plugs in Your Car

Posted on July 17, 2021 by autorepair

If you are not a trained mechanic, you can’t always tell what’s wrong with your car, or whether there’s even anything wrong at all. But by educating yourself on the stop signs of different failing auto parts, you can better be attuned to what your car is trying to tell you. One of the most overlooked auto part replacement needs is bad spark plugs.

Continue reading to learn how to tell if you need to replace the spark plugs in your car, and who to trust for affordable auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis.

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What Do Spark Plugs Do?

Spark plugs are important automotive component because they play a vital role in your engine’s overall operation. As small electrical devices within a vehicle, spark plugs work by triggering combustion within the engine. And just like their name suggests, they produce a spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture within the combustion chambers of the engine cylinders. As a result, the engine gets the power it needs to move the vehicle. Basically, spark plugs are responsible for starting your car, keeping it started, and ensuring a smooth ride.

Signs of Bad Spark Plugs

Most auto manufacturers recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles, while others suggest their vehicles can last up to 100,000 miles or more before spark plug replacement is needed. Most spark plugs are made with metals like titanium and iridium, which are strong grades. Other spark plugs are made from copper, which tends to not last as long. Check with your owner’s manual or local Indianapolis auto mechanic to confirm your spark plug replacement schedule.

There are various symptoms a vehicle can demonstrate that may indicate an underlying problem with spark plugs. However, there are 5 very common signs that suggest your spark plugs have gone bad and should be replaced. These top five signs include poor gas mileage, engine misfires, engine turnover problems, slow or delayed acceleration, and bumpy idling.

Poor Gas Mileage

If you notice that your fuel tank is not lasting as long as it usually does, and no other changes have taken place within your driving habits for your vehicle, it could be a sign that your spark plugs are deteriorated. Spark plugs that are in good condition help your engine burn fuel efficiently, so when they start to deteriorate, one of the first signs is increased fuel consumption.

Engine Misfires

An engine misfire is when a running engine suddenly blows, pops, and shuts down. Misfires sound like sputtering, rough shaking, or a sudden wind down of power. Spark plugs are not in the best condition, they can cause engines to misfire because the spark producing is not adequate to ignite the air fuel mix within the combustion chambers.

Engine Turnover Problems

Like engine misfires, if you have trouble starting your car, whether in cold weather, when you have a low level gas, or for what seems like no reason at all, it could be because your spark plugs are dirty or damaged, and therefore not generating a strong enough spark anymore. Jerky starts or unsuccessful turnovers are a telltale sign of spark plug problems.

Slowed Acceleration

Slow or delayed acceleration is another common sign of bad spark plugs. When you press your foot down on the gas pedal, but your car doesn’t seem to respond as quickly as it used to, it could be because you were spark plugs are deteriorated or damaged. This sign could also indicate other issues, like dirty fuel injectors, defective oxygen sensors, and bad fuel pumps. But most often, it’s just the spark plugs, which fortunately, are much cheaper to repair.

Bumpy Idling

Rough, bumpy, and/or loud idling, whether sitting in the driveway waiting to take off, or at a stoplight, is a common sign that spark plugs have corroded. Keep your ears open for rattling, bumping, knocking, and pinging noises, which are all frequent symptoms of spark plug problem in the engine.

Are you looking for a trusted auto mechanic for help with your spark plug problem? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for engine repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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4 Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage
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How a Car Brake Inspection Will Promote Safer Summer Driving

Posted on June 10, 2021 by autorepair

Although life would be a little easier if your vehicles didn’t require so much routine care and maintenance, our own safety and financial soundness relies on regular car care. When it comes to your vehicle’s brake lines, nothing could be more important to check on a regular basis. After all, the most important quality to a car is arguably its ability to stop. Safety and assurance are two key factors as to why drivers of all ages are continuously encouraged to get regular inspections and maintenance for car brakes and brake lines.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about automotive brake care, and how a quick brake inspection can set you up for safer summer driving.

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About Automotive Brake Repair and Maintenance

Car brakes, just like various other vehicular components, need to be replaced to avoid further complications and damages. Neglecting to care for your brakes can lead to more serious and costly repairs. Brake pads, rotors, hydraulic clamps, fluid lines, and more all make up a modern day vehicle braking system. Be sure to have your car or truck brakes inspected and addressed before the summer road takes you away for the season!

Here are the most important factors to consider, and areas to inspect, when preparing for automotive brake maintenance and repair.

☑ Brake Pads
☑ Brake Rotors
☑ Brake Lines
☑ Brake Fluid
☑ Hydraulic Clamps
☑ Bolts

If you take a knee and peer into the hubcap of your vehicle’s wheel, you can visually see the brake pads and rotor. The rotor is the flat rounded metal disk, and the brake pad is the cushion-like rounded pad the sits against the rotor. These should be replaced every few months, depending on the amount of driving you do on a daily basis. Consult with a licensed mechanic for accurate industry advice, service, and assistance.

Address Brake Problems Upon Detection

In between routine factory scheduled maintenance, you will need to stay on top of any repairs you might need. In order to determine the condition of your car brakes without being a professional mechanic, simply look for some common signs. When your car brakes are in faulty condition, they will likely warn you somehow. For example, when car brakes squeak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. But it can also mean a variety of other things as well. This is where a professional mechanic can help; they can accurately diagnose any brake problem.

Do your car or truck brakes need some professional attention? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, today.

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Where to Get Free Coupons for Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

Posted on May 27, 2021 by autorepair

Gas prices are rising, and to top it all off, auto repair and service is not usually cheap. But if you look hard enough, you can actually find some amazing auto repair service deals in Indianapolis. What’s the secret? Well, you have to choose the right Indianapolis auto shop!

Continue below to learn how to get free coupons for auto repair and car maintenance in Indianapolis at Northeast Auto Service!

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Why Choose Northeast Auto Service in Indianapolis

Northeast Auto Service is an automotive repair shop located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and insured car repair shop has more than 25 years of professional experience in the automotive service industry. As ASE certified auto mechanic technicians, we can repair and service any make or model vehicle. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in offering courteous and reliable automotive services to Hoosiers all across Indianapolis.

Take Advantage of Our Seasonal Coupons for Auto Service and Repair

Starting now, North East Auto is offering spring and summer specials on car maintenance, service, and even repair! We proudly provide coupons on everything from fuel injection service to ignition tune ups! Whether you need an oil change, or routine brake service, we have the discounts and coupons that make it all affordable! Right now, any customer can get $50 OFF any service or repair that exceeds $250! This is an amazing value that no other automotive repair shop can beat!

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Ready to put these amazing auto service coupons to good use and put your savings to even better use? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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Have Your Car Suspension Inspected If These Facts are True About You

Posted on May 17, 2021 by autorepair

Suspensions are vital components in a vehicle and require a certain degree of attention when the time calls. Worn suspensions can cause several of other problems in a vehicle, including tires, alignment, engine, and more. That is why they are something you want to catch his early as possible in order to reduce the amount of damage, as well as the total cost for repair.

Continue reading to learn when you should have your car suspension checked.

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When to Schedule Vehicle Suspension Inspection and Service

Signs that your suspension is in trouble and needs some attention include bouncing, uneven steering, difficulty steering, knocking noises, banging noises, screeching noises, and other strange occurrences you haven’t experienced while driving your vehicle any other time. Aside from detecting these tell-tale signs of suspension trouble, here is when you need to have your car’s suspension inspected by a trained and licensed mechanic:

► If You Drive A Lot

If you are someone who commutes long distances on a daily basis, or drives often, and you have yet to have your car suspension looked at, RIGHT NOW is the perfect time to get it scheduled. In most cases, your vehicle will require alignment service to adjust its navigation and steering. This will benefit your tires in many other components of your vehicle. To test your alignment simply release your brakes slowly as he approaches stop and let go of the steering will vary slightly. If your car favors one direction over the other, you need a realignment.

► If You Wrecked Your Car

After your vehicle has been involved in accident, whether something serious or a mild fender bender, it is important to have the suspension inspected. You never know what kind of damage was done on the inside in places you can’t see. Only a trained mechanic with the proper diagnostic equipment can expect your vehicle for damages and ensure that it’s ready and safe to drive.

► If You’re Buying a Used Car

It is strongly encouraged to have a vehicle inspected before you purchase it from a seller. You want to make sure that all aspects of the vehicle are functional and safe. This includes the suspension. Pre-purchase inspections are common service offered by most auto repair shops at a reasonable price. Before you drive off the lot, be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection first.

Are you ready to get your car suspension service in the books? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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Why You Should Get an Auto AC Tune Up Right Now

Posted on April 21, 2021 by autorepair

Spring is already bringing the heat, but Summer is especially known to get hot. Is your vehicle’s air conditioning system ready to take on the job of keeping you cool during your lengthy commutes? Right now is the perfect time of year to get your car’s AC tuned up and ready to go!

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of a properly working air conditioner in your car, and how to ensure yours stays in the best condition all Spring and Summer long.

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The Importance of a Functional Car Air Conditioner

Driving in hot and humid conditions without a properly-functioning AC can cause drivers to be distracted, irritable, and extremely uncomfortable. Not only can this jeopardize safety and can be poor for the health, but it is also simply unbearable to withstand. Drivers and passengers can experience heavy sweating, dizziness, and fatigue if caught in traffic during high temperatures, and can even suffer from mild cases of heat stroke. So, for this reason, you need routine auto air conditioner service to ensure your vehicle’s AC is dependable and fully-functional.

Furthermore, it is vital to keep in mind that a refrigerant leak is damaging to the ozone layer. Not only does a properly-functioning AC system save on gas mileage, but it is also environmentally friendly. If you suspect that your vehicle’s air conditioner is losing coolness or not functioning properly, it is strongly encouraged to take it to your trusted auto repair center for professional inspection and service. They have the knowledge and resources to solve your vehicle problems and get you back on the road fast.

What to Expect From Auto AC Tune Up Service

An auto AC system is designed to control the interior climate of a vehicle, including temperature and humidity, and comes in many different forms depending on the make and model of the car. A licensed automotive mechanic is the only authority that has the knowledge and equipment to deliver accurate air conditioner service. Routine auto AC service is a critical part of preventative maintenance for your vehicle. Not only does it provide the proper inspections and replacements necessary for every summer, it prevents future breakdowns and costly repairs.

When you get auto AC service, your mechanic will begin by implementing a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle’s air conditioning system. The check the pressures to test operation, refrigerant charge, and outlet temperatures. If your vehicle’s AC system is low on refrigerant, the mechanic will implement a leak test to locate the source of a leak if there is one in the system. If found, leaks are fixed and if the states allow it, the refrigerant is re-filled. The mechanic will then check for refrigerant cross-contamination and the compressor’s drive belt and tension.

Are you looking for a trusted and affordable automotive mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana, but at neighborhood prices!

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Car Care Tips for New Car Owners

Posted on April 12, 2021 by autorepair

Whether you are 16 years old and brand new to independent driving, or a first-time new car owner, your top priority should be safe driving. But there is more to being a safe driver other than skill and knowledge; it is equally important to know how to take good care of your vehicle and stay on top of routine maintenance. This ensures optimal performance and efficiency, which in turn supports safer driving. As a newbie to automotive responsibility, it is strongly encouraged to review and understand the basics of car care, and then keep up with your vehicle’s factory scheduled services.

Continue below to learn some fundamental car care tips for new car owners.

The Importance of Routine Car Care

If you want to be the safest driver you can possibly be, then you will need to add routine car maintenance to your list of priorities. Regular car care allows your vehicle to perform its best and last much longer. Routine and proper car care can also reduce the frequency or likelihood of mechanic expenses for costly breakdowns and auto part replacements.

Although the detailed factory scheduled maintenance checklist varies depending on the type of driver you are and your car’s make and model, there are a few basic services and needs that all car owners will need to implement in order to maintain a safe and reliable vehicle. From fluid changes and radiator flushes to tune-ups, wiper replacements, and more, you can be a better driver if you take good care of your car.

Recommended Automotive Services for All Car Owners

► Fluid Changes

Your car uses several fluids, seven in fact. They all need to be swapped out or refilled regularly for optimal performance and longevity. These include motor oil, radiator fluid (coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid (usually just water), and windshield wiper fluid. Refer to your owners’ manual, or look it up online, to see how often all of these need to be replaced. As for wiper fluid, you can often detect the need for a refill yourself. As for oil changes, the average recommendation is every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but this can vary depending on how often you drive and other factors.

► Battery Service

You can expect to have your car battery replaced every 7,500 miles or so, which is usually around 48 months. You will likely start to see the signs of a failing battery, such as dimming lights, stalled engine, and sluggish performance. Be sure you always have a set of jumper cables in your trunk so that you can jump start the battery if it dies.

► Tire Care

Your tires are arguably one of the most important exterior features of a car. After all, they make actual contact with the road, while providing traction to keep there, and in control. For this reason, it is important to take good care of your car tires with routine rotation and balancing, as well as regular tire pressure inspections and air refills. Try to have your tires serviced every 6 months, or every 7,500 miles.

► Brake Service

Along with your tires, your brakes are also vital automotive components necessary for safety. Be sure to have your brakes checked and serviced every year. A typical automotive brake inspection should include an inspection of all lights, hoses, lines, and electrical components, as well as cleaning, brake fluid replenishment, vehicle alignment, brake pad replacement, brake rotor replacement, and a test drive.

► Engine Inspections and Tune Ups

Along with your routine oil change, your engine will need a basic inspection and a few tweaks, and perhaps even a little cleaning, while it’s in the shop. This level of engine service should be done at least once every year.

► Exterior Car Care

It is also important to keep your car clean. Neglecting to wash your car regularly will subject it to years of piled up residue, which can cause paint erosion, rust, and more. This type of damage will also have a devastating impact on a vehicle’s overall resale value. Of course, it is also recommended to keep the inside of your car clean as much as possible for optimal driving safety.

Does your car need some routine maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for superior, ASE licensed auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model vehicles.

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