What You Need to Know About Car Repair Insurance

Posted on June 9, 2022 by autorepair

All vehicle owners in the state of Indiana are required to have limited liability insurance coverage on their vehicles. But this type of insurance coverage does not cover automotive repairs and car maintenance services, nor offer extended warranties. If you want to be covered in the case that your car breaks down or requires a major repair, you’ll need to seek out an additional policy separate from your standard auto insurance.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about car insurance coverage so that you can make the best decision for your automotive protection interests.

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Auto Repair Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage for auto repairs and car maintenance is not included in your standard car insurance policy. Some insurance policies do include coverage for auto body work in the case of an accident or collision, but not limited liability policies. If you have the state minimum insurance coverage, you are not covered for auto body work for your own vehicle, but any other vehicles affected in the collision will be covered under your policy, but only to a certain damage cap.

To be covered under an insurance policy for auto repairs and warranty protection, you will need to either add to your current car insurance policy or seek out a separate policy, either with your same insurance company or a different one. Insurance coverage for automotive repairs is typically pricey. For this reason, it is encouraged to call around to multiple insurance carriers to compare rates and get the best deal. Your current automotive insurance carrier may not provide the best deal for auto repair insurance coverage.

Additional Considerations for Car Repair Insurance

When researching car repair insurance policies, you will find that there are different types of coverage. Different levels of coverage will render different policy prices. The more coverage, the higher the price of the policy, and vice versa. Car repair insurance policies are offered in partial or full coverage.

Another consideration is the deductible. Just like any other insurance policy, car repair insurance policies will come with deductible terms. Before being qualified for automotive repairs, you will be required to pay your policy deductible, upfront. This is something to think about since the deductible you choose will have an impact on the monthly cost of your policy.

Then there is the hassle of making an insurance claim. Everybody knows that the process of filing an insurance claim, whether for car repair or auto body work, is a complicated process, filled with all sorts of roadblocks. Ultimately, insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible for every single claim, and their employees are specifically trained to lower the value of any claim that comes through their office. This is something to think about when deciding if car repair insurance is something that is compatible with your budget and overall automotive protection needs.

Are you looking for a reliable Indianapolis auto repair shop that won’t charge you an arm and a leg for car repair or maintenance? 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.

These 6 Car Malfunctions Point to the Alternator

Posted on May 31, 2022 by autorepair

There usually isn’t a lot of talk about alternators when it comes to automotive maintenance and repair. Yet, you simply cannot operate your vehicle without a properly functioning alternator. But how do you know if your alternator is having problems? There are certain signs to look for; 6 car malfunctions, specifically.

If your car or truck is showing one or more of these malfunctions, it could indicate that your ride needs alternator repair.

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What Does an Alternator Do?

The alternator in your vehicle plays a vital role in its overall operation and performance. Basically, the alternator supplies your vehicle with electricity. This electricity is used to power all sorts of mechanical systems and electronics within your car, including the head and taillights, interior cabin lights, heating and cooling, onboard computer systems, GPS systems, stereo, radio, dashboard operating systems, and much more. Without a properly functioning alternator, you will start to notice problems with one or more of these systems within your vehicle. This is how you can look out for the signs of alternator problems.

Oftentimes, people confuse alternator problems with car battery problems because they both supply vehicles with power. However, the alternator is responsible for charging the car battery. So, if you are experiencing electricity-related problems in your vehicle, check your car battery first. If your car battery checks out, you can safely assume your alternator needs a turn in the repair shop.

Common Signs of a Malfunctioning Car Alternator

➀ Electrical Problems

As mentioned, if you start to notice problems with any of the electrical or computerized systems within your vehicle, you might want to assume that it’s the alternator. But first, always check on the car battery to be sure.

➁ Dead Battery

If your car battery checks out in the moment, but then later fails on you, and then continues to do this over and over again, your alternator could be the underlying culprit. If you find that your jump starting your car on a regular basis or your car keeps dying while out on the road, you may need to replace alternator.

➂ Dimming Lights

Because alternators supply vehicles with a source of power, one of the first indications of alternator malfunction is dimming lights. Headlights, taillights, and interior cabin lights can appear dimmer or weak, and may even flicker. If you notice this in your vehicle, it is important to have your car battery and alternator checked out right away.

➃ Strange Noises

A common problem with alternators actually stems from a loose serpentine belt. If the serpentine belt is stretched out, which commonly happens with age, it can lose its ability to spin the alternator pulley effectively.

If you hear squealing sounds coming from your car when you started it, it could be an indication that your serpentine belt is defective and has alternator to lose charge. If you hear grinding sounds or growling noises, it can be an indication that your internal bearings have corroded or deteriorated.

➄ Illuminated Warning Lights on the Dash

If you see any warning lights on your dashboard light up, such as your “ALT” light, battery light, or your Check Engine Light, you might want to take a look at the alternator. This is especially true if you get both the battery light and the check engine light on at the same time. If you just get the car battery light, check your battery to see if it still has charge. If it is not your car battery, take it into the shop to have alternator checked out.

➅ Engine Stalling

If your engine is repeatedly stalling when you start or drive your vehicle, it is a telltale indication of an alternator malfunction. The fuel injectors are simply not getting the power they need to fuel the engine and keep it going. This situation typically leads back to the alternator.

Are you looking for a trusted Indy auto shop that can repair your alternator at a price you can afford? 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!

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.

You Should Also Read:

Why You Should Get an Auto AC Tune Up Right Now
Common Signs That Indicate Which Car Repair You Need
How to Smell a Car Problem

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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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Frequently Asked Questions About Speedometer Repair

Posted on December 31, 2020 by autorepair

Your vehicle’s speedometer is arguably one of the most important safety and operational components since it is the component that displays the speed at which your car is traveling. When your speedometer begins to malfunction, it is vital that you have it serviced and repaired as soon as possible. Not only can inaccurate speedometer readings put you at risk of being pulled over for violating the speed limit, but it can put you and other drivers in grave danger.

Continue below to learn more about speedometers by reviewing these frequently asked questions.

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Speedometer Repair FAQS

Why Did My Speedometer Stop Working?

The most common reason why speedometers break down or malfunction is due to electrical issues within the vehicle. However, it could also be a wide range of other reasons, such as a defective speed sensor, engine control unit (ECU), wiring, or fuses. To diagnose a speedometer malfunction, your mechanic will use a few methods, starting with an examination of the sensor, and then all potentially related wiring and fuses. If these are not the issue, they will use a scanner to read the error code. This is often done to read Check Engine Lights, which they will also do to determine a problem with a speedometer.

Is it Dangerous to Drive With a Broken Speedometer?

Driving a car with a broken or faulty speedometer is very dangerous. Not only can it put you in danger, but it can also jeopardize the safety of your passengers, and other drivers and pedestrians on the road. As for the law, you can also be ticketed for operating a vehicle with a broken speedometer, which can cost you fines and court fees, and even risk suspending your drivers’ license. Seek immediate speedometer auto repair in Indianapolis as soon as possible to avoid these dangers and risks.

How are Speedometers Repaired?

Most speedometer repairs are straightforward, merely requiring an ECU replacement, fuse replacement, or trouble code clearing. Other times, to repair a speedometer, a mechanic must install a new speed sensor.

How Much Does Speedometer Repair Cost?

The cost to repair your speedometer depends on a wide range of variables, from the make and model of your car, to the severity of malfunction or defect, the auto repair shop you choose, and much more. On average, you can expect speedometer repairs to range anywhere between $200 and $500 in price. Some warranties cover this type of repair, which would eliminate the financial liability altogether. Keep in mind that in the case that it is covered under warranty, you will likely be limited to dealership mechanics only.

Where Can I Get Affordable and Fast Speedometer Repair in Indianapolis?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana for broken speedometers, check engine lights, and more. Our licensed mechanics have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime! We can even assist with tows! Don’t forget to mention one of our auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.