A Common Myth About Repairing Cars Under Warranty

Posted on November 29, 2019 by autorepair

Many drivers innocently assume that a new vehicle under warranty can only be serviced by its dealership, and that taking their new vehicle to an independent auto shop will cause their factory warranty to be void. But this is a common misconception and simply untrue. In fact, there are laws in place that protect vehicle owners from this type of penalty.

Continue reading to learn the truth about servicing vehicles under warranty, and be better informed of your options for routine maintenance and repair.

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The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

There is a federal statute called the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act is a law that governs warranties on consumer products. This law came into effect in 1975 after a widespread misuse of warranties and disclaimers by merchants, and is still enforced to this day by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The statute gets its name from the two Democrats it was sponsored by, Senator Warren G. Magnuson of Washington and U.S. Representative John E. Moss of California, as well as co-sponsor Sen. Frank Moss of Utah.

In the case of new cars, this statute prohibits manufacturers from voiding a vehicle warranty and car dealers from denying warranty coverage, if the vehicle was service or repaired by a non-dealer. So if a consumer has an independent automotive repair shop service their vehicle while under warranty, their warranty cannot be voided as long as the mechanics adhered to the vehicle’s factory recommendations and requirements. This also applies to vehicle owners who opt for a recycled or aftermarket car part.

Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Automotive repairs are broad ranged, and can include anything from collision damages and cosmetic repairs, to simple part replacements, factory maintenance, and more. As for factory scheduled maintenance, these services generally include inspections, oil changes, fluid checks and refills, tire rotation and balances, brake inspection and service, alignments, flushes, tune-ups, and much more.

If you have questions about your vehicle’s warranty, contact your dealer to discuss the conditions of your warranty, including its limitations and privileges. You may also contact your local automotive repair specialist for information about factory scheduled maintenance and repair for vehicles under warranty. You may also refer to your owners’ manual to review the factory recommendations and requirements for your vehicle make and model.

Affordable Indianapolis Auto Service and Repair

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis auto repair and service you can trust. We 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 Indianapolis car repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Do I Have to Repair a Check Engine Light?

Posted on October 17, 2019 by autorepair

When that check engine light comes on, the panic starts to set in. “How much is this going to cost me?” is the only thought that runs through your head until you take your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection. But while you wait for the diagnosis, there is no need to worry prematurely; not all check engine light warnings are serious. In fact, some are so minor, car owners ask themselves whether or not it’s even worth fixing. On the other hand, some are so easy to fix, you can manage it on your own, and at no cost.

If your check engine light is on, continue reading to learn why it might have illuminated and what your options are for repair.

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Check Engine Light Warnings

A check engine light is also referred to as a malfunctioning indicator lamp (MIL). They are designed to detect mechanical and electrical issues within a vehicle, and then illuminate upon detection. Once your check engine light comes on, your first step is to get a diagnostic reading. You can purchase a check engine light code reader online or at your local auto supply store, however, it is better to have it done by a trained mechanic who can help you understand the issue and your options for repair.

Minor Automotive Issues

Some of the most common causes for a check engine light to illuminate are somewhat minor problems. For example, a top cause is a loose or open gas cap. Simply forgetting to close your gas cap can cause your check engine light to illuminate, so be sure to always check this first before heading to your local auto shop. Another common cause for a check engine light to come on is low tire pressure. Not all vehicle’s are designed with a malfunctioning indicator lamp that will detect this issue, but most newer models do. Simply tend to your tire as needed, and the check engine light will turn off.

Moderate to Major Automotive Issues

The check engine light is also designed to detect more serious issues with your vehicle. If the minor causes are not applicable to your situation, it could be a moderate to major automotive issue. Some of the most common moderate to major issues detected by a malfunctioning indicator lamp include:

Your vehicle needs a new oxygen (o₂) sensor.

Your vehicle needs a new mass airflow sensor (MAF).

Your vehicle needs new spark plugs or plug wires.

The catalytic converter is damaged or defective.

To Repair or Not to Repair

It is important to talk to your trusted Indianapolis mechanic for advice on car care and automotive repair. If your check engine light came on due to a minor issue, you won’t need auto repair service. However, if it came on due to something more serious, the issue must be repaired or corrected in order to safety and efficiency of your vehicle. Even if you feel that your car is operating just fine, you should still have it inspected, as some problems can start small and worsen, overtime.

Need an Auto Mechanic?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional Indianapolis check engine light services you can trust. Our ASE certified car mechanics provide a wide range of automotive services for all make and model vehicles, foreign and domestic. Schedule a free inspection and estimate, anytime. Don’t forget to ask us about our auto repair coupons and discounts!

Ask Yourself These 3 Questions Before Hiring a Mechanic

Posted on January 10, 2017 by autorepair

Are you in need of auto repair but don’t know who to hire for the job? If so, you are in the same position as thousands of Hoosiers across Indianapolis. You know it is vital to choose the right automotive shop to ensure proper care for your vehicle, as well as, trusted and professional customer service. But with so many companies in the city to choose from, how DO you choose? Well for starters, you must know what to look for. Continue reading to learn 3 important questions to ask yourself before making a final decision on a car mechanic for your vehicle.

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❶Are They ASE Certified Mechanics?

The most important credential to look for in an automotive shop is whether or not they employ ASE certified, licensed mechanics. On top of ASE certification, you must also ask yourself about their length of experience. Certification and experience are the two key components that make a mechanic proficient in automotive service and repair. If they have both, you are on course.

❷Do They Provide Written Estimates?

You want to make sure the automotive shop provides written estimate, whether free or not. By providing written estimates, clients can feel comfortable going through all the charges and fees for a clear and concrete understanding of their final bill. And then they will sign the estimate before the shop moves forward with any work. This offer shows that an auto repair shop is not in the practice of tacking on hidden or extra service charges at the last minute. You will pay what you signed for in the beginning.

❸What Do Their Clientele Have to Say?

A great way to determine what to expect from an automotive shop is to read past customer reviews. Be sure to read the most recent ones first for a more accurate understanding of their current service. Customer reviews will reveal personal experiences, painting you a picture of how they do business with their clients.

Indianapolis Auto Repair You Can Trust!

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for superior Indianapolis auto repair you can trust. We are ASE certified mechanics with more than 20 years of experience. We provide a wide range of factory schedule maintenance and repairs for all make and model vehicles, with major engine work being our specialty. Foreign or domestic, old or new, we will provide effective and affordable auto service solutions in a convenient time frame. Call 317-475-1846 to schedule an appointment to get a free written estimate, today.

4 Ways to Increase Vehicle Performance

Posted on September 23, 2014 by autorepair

If your vehicle is reaching its “senior” years or just seems to need a pick-me-up, there are some simple tricks to instantly increase the performance of your ride. All cars and trucks need regular factory scheduled maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, for optimal overall performance and longevity. If you have taken a backseat to these automotive necessities, it’s still not too late. You can bring your vehicle into an Indianapolis automotive repair shop for diagnostics and maintenance. From there, you can stay on track with routine vehicle care. In any case, increasing your car’s performance will cost you money, but it can also save you from costly repairs and breakdowns later on. If you want to instantly enhance your vehicle’s drive, try out these helpful tips for immediate performance gratification and upgrade!

Clean Out Your Car

Empty the trunk of your car. Clean out the back seats and remove all unnecessary items like clothing, books, DVDs, and trash. Remove any heavy items or equipment that might weigh down your vehicle. The more weight a car retains, the harder the engine has to work and the more fuel is consumed. By removing unneeded or unnecessary weight, you can increase the miles you get per gallon and reduce monthly fuel spending. The best part about this helpful tip is that it costs zero dollars, takes only a few minutes, and renders instant benefits!

Use Synthetic Oil

If you do not already use synthetic oil, it is suggested to make the switch if you want a better performing vehicle. Synthetic oil provides the most protection and lowest friction for diesel and gasoline engines. It is much cleaner than standard oil and provides for more efficient lubrication because it breaks down at a much slower rate. This type of oil only costs about one dollar more than alternative oils, and well-worth the upgrade in the long-run!

Additives

Purchase one of the several types of additives on the market and pour it in your car’s coolant reservoir. These additives work as a wetting agent and reduces the coolant temperatures as much as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It also protects against corrosion and rust. When you add it to your vehicle’s antifreeze, it instantly improves heat transfer. AS for cost, one bottle will set you back only 8 or 9 dollars!

Spark Plugs

For instant performance upgrade, have your vehicle’s spark plug wires changed. This will improve engine performance. High-performance spark plug wires have extremely low resistance without electronic interference; and carry a much stronger signal to the spark plugs. This task only takes a licensed mechanic about an hour and costs under 50 dollars for a decent set of wires.

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Factory Scheduled Maintenance Indianapolis IN

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for licensed automotive repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained, ASE licensed auto mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive service and repair industry. We offer a wide selection of car repair services for all make and model vehicles. Call 317-475-1846 for trusted Indianapolis car repair in Indianapolis, IN today.