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

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.

Indianapolis Spark Plug Replacement and Engine Repair
Indianapolis Spark Plug Replacement and Engine Repair 317-475-1846

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!

You Should Also Read:

4 Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage
6 Signs That Suggest You Need Alternator Repair
Top 3 Signs You Need Catalytic Converter Repair

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846
ASE Certified Mechanics Indianapolis 317-475-1846

How a Car Brake Inspection Will Promote Safer Summer Driving

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.

Indianapolis IN Car Brake Repair and Service
Indianapolis IN Car Brake Repair and Service 317-475-1846

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.

You Might Also Like:

How Often Should I Bleed My Car Brakes?
3 Auto Care Services to Ensure Brake Performance and Longevity
Common Types of Car Brake Fluid

Indianapolis Auto Repair Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 317-475-1846

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

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!

Get ALL the
Auto Repair Deals
Near You!

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!

Northeast Auto Service Deals:

🤑 BUY 4 OIL CHANGES AND GET 1 FREE
🤑 $50 OFF IGNITION TUNE UPS & FUEL INJECTION SERVICE
🤑 $25 OFF EACH BRAKE AXEL REPAIR
🤑 $50 OFF COMPLETE BRAKE REPAIR
🤑 FREE SAFETY INSPECTION

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.

You Might Also Like:

Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule
How Much Does Alternator Repair Cost?
Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

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

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.

Indianapolis Car Suspension Inspection and Repair
Indianapolis Car Suspension Inspection and Repair 317-475-1846

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.

You Should Also Like:

Why is a Vehicle Suspension Inspection So Important?
Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule
What is Car Maintenance Insurance?

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846
ASE Certified Mechanics Indianapolis 317-475-1846

Why You Should Get an Auto AC Tune Up Right Now

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.

Indianapolis Car AC Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Car AC Repair and Service 317-475-1846

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!

You Might Also Enjoy:

How to Quickly Cool Down the Inside of Your Car
Everyday Car Care Hacks You Really Need to Know
When Do I Need Auto Air Conditioner Service?

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Car Care Tips for New Car Owners

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.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846

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.

You Should Also Read:

How to Jump Start a Car Battery
Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know
Car Tire FAQS

Indianapolis Auto Mechanic
Indianapolis Auto Mechanics 317-475-1846

Top 4 Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start

So, you get into your car, already late for whatever it is you are on your way to, but the engine won’t seem to turn over. Although there are millions of things that can go wrong in vehicles, there are 4 in particular that tend to be the most common culprits. Fortunately, they can all be repaired, and some only take a few minutes of your own time to fix!

Continue below to learn why your car will not start, and what how to determine exactly what the issue might be.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Your Car Will Not Start? Here’s What Might Be the Problem:

Your vehicle is designed with various electrical and mechanical systems that can breakdown or experience interruptions in performance. However, when your car won’t start, or the engine refuses to turn over, you can likely chalk it up to 4 essential auto parts: the alternator, battery, starter, or fuel tank. Of course, it can also be a combination of breakdowns and failures, including among these four car parts. Here is some information that will help you determine what and why for each one:

Alternator

If your alternator is faulty, or is breaking down, you can expect your car to have problems starting. It is common to experience issues with the battery and starter when your car’s alternator is bad, making it more challenging to detect the underlying issue without a licensed mechanic providing the diagnosis. In fact, the signs of a failing alternator are very similar to a dying car battery, including electrical flickering and dimming lights. If your alternator is bad, you will need alternator replacement.  

Battery

A dead or nearly dead car battery is a common cause behind a car that won’t start. You can try to use jumper cables to re-power your car’s battery; but if that doesn’t work, it is likely that you need a whole new battery. Fortunately, car batteries are not expensive, and they are easy to maintain for many years. If your car battery is new, you might be dealing with a failing starter instead.

Starter

As just mentioned, if your car won’t start and it is definitely not a dead battery, it could be a broken starter. Starters are designed to receive electrical currents from the battery and convert them into larger energy in order to power the engine. If it is failing, it cannot do its job, therefore, your car will not start. If your car is making no sounds or vibrations when you turn the key, it is a common sign that the starter is broken.

Fuel Tank

In the best case scenario is that your fuel tank is empty. In fact, the most common reason why people’s cars will not start is simply because they are out of gasoline! Check your fuel tank regularly, and be sure to keep some extra fuel at your home in case you need an emergency top-off to get you to the nearest gas station. In a worse scenario, your car could have a leak or crack in the fuel tank, which will require immediate auto repair.

Are you having problems starting your car? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for auto repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We work on both domestic and foreign vehicles, and specialize in major engine work. Request a free estimate, today.

You Might Also Like:

How Much Does Alternator Repair Cost?
How to Jump Start a Car Battery
Why is My Check Engine Light On?

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

FAQS About Factory Scheduled Car Maintenance

If you are a car owner, it is necessary to know how to take care of your asset in order to protect your investment. And it all starts with routine car maintenance. Everything from sensible driving and fluid changes, to filter replacements, battery care, and more, are all important parts of maintaining a safe and operational vehicle for years to come. You can find the recommended maintenance schedule you’re your vehicle in its owners’ manual. Or you can contact a trusted mechanic for advice.

Continue reading to review some of the most commonly asked questions about car maintenance, and who to trust with your vehicle.

Indianapolis IN Car Maintenance
Indianapolis IN Car Maintenance and Repair and Service 317-475-1846

Car Care and Maintenance Mechanic Advice

When Should I Rotate and Balance My Tires?

Your car’s tires play a large role in gas mileage, fuel efficiency, performance, and safety. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to your tire’s condition and routine needs. It is recommended to rotate and balance tires every 5,000 miles, or at every other oil change.

When Should I Get My Oil Changed?

Oil changes are vital for your vehicle. Without them, your car simply wouldn’t run after some time. So be sure to get your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If you drive often or drive long distances frequently, you may need to get them at closer intervals.

When Should I Replace My Spark Plugs?

Spark plugs are important components to your vehicle’s engine. For this reason, and many more, you should replace worn-out spark plugs every 30,000 miles, or every 3 years. This will also improve your fuel efficiency.

Do I Have to Replace My Timing Belt?

You MUST replace your timing belt when the manufacturer recommends! If you fail to do so, it can cause major engine damage, which is extremely expensive to repair. Timing belt replacement is the much cheaper option.

Does My Check Engine Light Mean I Need Car Maintenance?

Well, not exactly. It illuminates when you are in dire need of car maintenance or repair. Your trusted mechanic, coupled with your car’s owners’ manual, will let you know when you need car maintenance. That is because car maintenance should be on the preventative side. You do not want to wait until there is something wrong to act.

What Do I Do if My Car Overheats?

Pull over immediately, turn off the engine, allow it to cool completely, and then check to see if you are low on coolant. In most cases, a quick re-fill of radiator fluid, also known as coolant, is the cure for an overheating engine. In other cases, it can be something more serious. If your car continues to overheat, even with coolant, you need auto repair.

Why is My Engine Oil Look Milky?

When coolant leaks into the engine oil, it can take on a milky-brown color. Blown head gaskets, cracked casings, and transmission cooler failure are common causes. This is a very serious issue that requires immediate auto repair.

When Do I Need to Replace the Fuel Filter?

Just like spark plugs, fuel filters should be replaced every 30,000 miles or so. You can couple this service with your spark plug replacement and get them done at the same time.

What Do I Do if I Have a Burnt Fuse?

Burnt out fuses should be replaced immediately. Be sure to always use the same amperage, which you can find printed on the fuse. It the same fuse continues to cause problems; you may have an issue with your circuit. This requires professional inspection and repair.

Do you need factory schedule car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for automotive repair services at the most affordable prices in town!

You Might Also Like:

What is Car Maintenance Insurance?
Why You Must Get Your Car Air Filters Changed This Year
Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

Indianapolis Auto Mechanic
Indianapolis Auto Mechanics 317-475-1846

How to Inspect Your Car Brakes

One of the most important components inside a vehicle is the braking system. A vehicle simple cannot be driven without properly functioning brakes. Aside from not be able to bring a vehicle to a controlled stop, when brakes are defective, lives are put in serious danger. This is why routine brake inspections and brake service is so vital to your safety, as well as your vehicle’s upkeep. Regular checkups and light servicing will extend the life of your braking system and keep you and your passengers protected. A little preventative maintenance and precaution truly does save lives.

Continue reading to learn a basic guide to inspecting car brakes, as well as car brake routine maintenance recommendations.

Indianapolis Car Brake Inspection Service
Indianapolis Car Brake Inspection and Service 317-475-1846

A Quick Guide to Car Brake Inspection

Brake Pads

Start your inspection at the brake pads. These are the softer foam-like parts that prevent your calipers from scraping against the rotors. If they are thin, they cannot do their job much longer, so replace them. For pads less than 1/8 inch in width, replace them immediately or risk damaging the brake discs. Replacing brake pads is inexpensive and quick.

Brake Discs

The next area to inspect are the brake discs. Are they shiny? Are the grooves shallow and consistent? If you spot any irregularities, rough spots, abrasions, dents, or other surface damages, you need to replace them. Never replace just one disc. They should always be bought and replaced as a pair, even if the other disc is perfectly fine, so that they always operate evenly and equally.

Brake Rotors

Check with your manufacturer, or the owner’s manual, to determine the recommended thickness for your vehicle’s brake rotors. This number will vary vehicle to vehicle. Once you know this number, you know what to check for. When looking at the thickness of your brake rotors, use a micrometer tool and measure the width. It is encouraged to have a safety margin to never cross, just to ensure the integrity of your braking system. Typically, 0.3 to 0.6 inch is the recommended margin to use for standard, modern-day vehicles.

Brake Lines

Feel the coating that surrounds your vehicle’s brake lines. It should be soft and rubber-like. It should not have any cracks, abrasions, or stiffness along the line anywhere. If they are stiff, take your vehicle to a licensed mechanic and have the protective rubber coating replaced. Exposed areas in the brake line can cause the metal beneath it to corrode, leading to very dangerous driving conditions and expensive repairs.

Brake Shoes and Brake Fluid

With drum brakes comes brake shoes. If your vehicle has brake shoes, be sure that the metal has not worn down to the point that the brake lining is exposed. Brake fluid is one of the 7 or 8 fluids every vehicle needs to operate safely. Check the brake fluid level and refill if necessary. But do not skip or forget this part of the brake inspection!

Affordable Car Brake Inspection and Auto Repair Service in Indianapolis

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for regular scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed car mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive repair and service industry. We offer free estimates and auto repair coupons, and service all make and model vehicles. Contact us to request a free estimate or mechanic advice, anytime.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

How to Ensure Good Driving Visibility in the Winter

This winter, you do not have to put up with poor visibility on the road due to inclement weather conditions. Prepare your vehicle for cloudy weather, dark evenings, harsh hail, thick snow, and much more, with these winter car care tips!

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846

Car Care Tips for Improved Winter Visibility

Not only are the days shorter in the winter, requiring nighttime commutes much sooner in the evening than the rest of the year, but the season also brings about climate conditions that are not the best suited for safe driving. For these reasons, it is important to do your part by remaining an alert and responsible driver, and staying on top of your vehicle’s factory scheduled maintenance needs. This includes ensuring proper tire maintenance and pressure, practicing safe driving, servicing your car brakes, and even keeping a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle at all times.

More specifically to visibility, it is vital that you ensure your car or truck is equipped with well-functioning lights, windshield wipers, and automotive fluids.

Vehicle Lights

Since days are shorter, commuting in the dark happens sooner and more often in the winter. Even during the day, before the sun sets, skies can be very dark and dreary. All of these common winter conditions make for poor visibility on the road. Not only do you have more trouble seeing clearly on the road as you drive, but other cars are having trouble seeing your vehicle too.

To fully protect yourself, prepare your car by ensuring the lights and electrical systems are working properly. This includes headlights, taillights, turn signals, parking lights, hazard lights, and interior cabin lights. If your lights are not functioning properly, it is not recommended to drive at night until you have had them repaired by a licensed auto repair shop in Indianapolis.

Windshield Wipers and Fluid

Your windshield wipers are often overlooked for their importance. But in the winter especially, when precipitation is thick, fast, and unpredictable, they are more vital than ever for your safety. Before the worst of the winter is upon us, it is important to have your windshield wipers inspected and replaced as needed. Be sure to choose a quality brand and type of windshield wipers, for both your front windshield and your back window.

In addition to quality wipers, it is wise to keep an extra bottle of windshield wiper fluid in your vehicle at all times. Keep your fluid topped off so that you can easily wipe away unanticipated muddy snow splats by a passing semi truck. You can even learn how to make your own windshield wiper deicer! Also keep an ice scraper in your car so that you can clear your windshield in between stops.

Where to Get Trusted Car Maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car maintenance and auto repair service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We have been helping Hoosiers repair and maintenance their vehicles for over 20 years, while offering affordable prices and reliable work. You can schedule an inspection and free 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.

Indianapolis Auto Repair Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 317-475-1846