When to Get an Oil Change for Your Car

When it comes to caring for your vehicle, routine and regular scheduled maintenance are among the most vital necessities. In order to sustain the value and performance of your vehicle, consistent oil changes, tune ups, tire rotations, and other factory scheduled services are required.

Continue reading to learn how the frequency of changing your oil affects the overall status of a vehicle.

ASE Certified Mechanics 317-475-1846

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

The Importance of Oil Changes

Cars, trucks, and other vehicles have different requirements when it comes to oil changes. Depending on the make or model of the vehicle, oil change frequencies will differ. Typically, we measure the length of time between scheduled auto services in distances. For example, most manufacturers suggest cars should have their oil changed every 3000 to 5000 miles, depending on the make and model.

Size and vehicle type also influence the rate of which a person should have their oil changed. For instance, diesel engines will have a contrasting oil change schedule compared to a gasoline fuel engine. Larger engines and vehicles burn more fuel, which may require them to have the oil changed more often. Small gasoline-fueled engines get better fuel mileage, resulting in less frequent routine maintenance.

Ask a Pro to Be Sure

The best way to accurately determine how often you need to change your vehicle’s oil is to ask a professional. This could be the manufacturer of the vehicle in question, or a professional Indianapolis auto repair shop or technician. Either way, these sources are professional references that can offer truthful tips, answers, and advice.

Where To Get Trusted Auto Service Near You!

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed and certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of foreign and domestic auto repair services, as well as, free estimates, automotive service coupons, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

3 Ways to Improve Vehicular Performance

If you want your car or truck to last a long time, all the while performing at its best, you need to take good care of it on a daily basis. Continue reading to learn the top three ways you can improve your vehicle’s performance and ensure your safety as a driver.

ASE Certified Mechanics 317-475-1846

ASE Certified Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Just like our own bodies, our vehicles contain a collection of systems that must work together in order to remain in a healthy functioning state. Although there are countless ways you can take good care of your vehicle, if you want to improve its performance, these three will get you what you want:

Fuel Additives

Fuel additives are a great option for improving fuel quality and performance. You will find a wide range of products on the market, all of which ranging in price, quality, and type. Once you choose the right one for your vehicle, simply pour it in your car’s coolant reservoir. Fuel additives work as a wetting agent and reduce coolant temperatures as much as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. When you add it to your vehicle’s antifreeze, it instantly improves heat transfer. They also protect against internal corrosion and rust formation. Best of all, these products come cheap, and average around $8 a bottle.

Aside from additives, you might want to reconsider your motor oil. It is suggested to make the switch to synthetic oil 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 product is also inexpensive and available in any automotive store or department.

Factory Scheduled Maintenance

If you want your vehicle to run great for a long time, you must adhere to its manufacturer recommended maintenance schedule. This schedule differs in minor detail among all make and model vehicles, but all cars in general require the basic routine services, like fluid changes, brake inspections, tune ups, and more.

If you want instant engine performance improvement, have your vehicle’s spark plug wires changed. High-performance spark plug wires have extremely low resistance without electronic interference; and carry a much stronger signal to the spark plugs. Refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for information on factory scheduled maintenance. You can also contact a local Indianapolis auto repair shop for advice.

Minor Auto Repairs

When we get sick, we need treatment to get better. If we let an infection go untreated, it will start to affect the rest of our bodies. The same applies to your vehicle. Do not let minor defects and malfunctions to go unresolved, or else you risk jeopardizing the other systems within your vehicle. Be sure to get small repairs fixed right away to reduce further vehicular wear and tear.

Indianapolis Auto Service You Can Trust!

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Auto Repair Indianapolis 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair and routine service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide domestic and foreign car repair and factory scheduled maintenance for all make and model vehicles. On top of competitive prices, we also offer car repair coupons and discounts! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate, today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transmissions

Do you suspect that your car’s transmission is on the outs? If so, you may be full of questions. Continue reading to learn some important information about automotive transmissions, including common signs of transmission trouble.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

Indianapolis Transmission Repair 317-475-1846

What Does a Car Transmission Do?

Automotive transmissions are designed as automatic or manual. Cars with manual transmissions are also referred to as clutches or stick-shift vehicles. Automatic transmissions are the most common, and probably the type you drive. In basic terms, a transmission’s purpose is to convert speeds and torques along a vehicle’s drive train. This means it automatically changes a vehicle’s gear ratios, allowing it to drive within its narrow range of speeds, but still also providing a wide range of torque and output speeds.

What Does Transmission Fluid Do?

One of the seven essential automotive fluids is transmission fluid. Without it, your transmission cannot operate smoothly. Transmission fluid is intended to lubricate all these inner working parts, while also controlling and reducing heat produced from friction. It cools and lubricates so that everything stays in sync and in optimal working condition. It is an oil-based liquid with a red-like color, and can be purchased at any auto parts store or automotive store. As a car owner, you do not need to check your transmission fluid levels. Instead, have your car or truck serviced regularly, every 6 months or 5,000 miles, by a licensed mechanic.

When Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

There are several different suggestions for transmission fluid changes, all of which vary depending on your driving style and the conditions in which you drive. This makes it difficult to know which recommendation is right for your vehicle. For automatic vehicles, most manufacturers will suggest changing the transmission fluid every 100,000 miles or so, but professional mechanics recommend doing so every 30,000 to 40,000 miles for optimal safety and performance. For manual transmission vehicles, most manufacturers will suggest changing the transmission fluid every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but professional mechanics recommend doing so every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual or your local Indianapolis auto repair shop for advice.

Do Car Transmissions Require Routine Maintenance?

Proper maintenance is vital for dependable transmission performance and longevity. Routine automotive services like regular inspections and tune-ups are important routine prevention tactics. Also, using proper fuel and fuel additives can greatly increase the performance and longevity of a car engine and transmission.

What are the Signs of Transmission Problems?

There are hundreds of symptoms a vehicle can experience when there is a problem with its transmission. However, there are 3 signs that you should always be on the lookout for. These include burning odors, transmission fluid leakage, and an illuminated check engine light. If you notice a puddle of red fluid beneath your vehicle, your transmission has a leak. If your check engine light comes on, it could be from a transmission problem. And if you smell a burning odor while driving, it could be a result of dirty transmission fluid.

Indianapolis Transmission Repair Experts

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

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

Common Causes for Parasitic Draw in Automotive Batteries

Parasitic draw sounds like something that would describe an illness or insect, but instead has everything to do with automotive batteries. Continue reading to what parasitic draw is and what causes it to happen in car batteries.

Car Battery Replacement 317-475-1846

Car Battery Replacement 317-475-1846

Parasitic Drain

Parasitic draw, also called drain, is the electric current that flows through a vehicle, both while it runs and after the ignition is turned off. You know how you can forget to turn off your headlights, and then your car won’t start the next day? Well, this is just one example of parasitic drain. Modern cars and trucks can easily come equipped with over 50 onboard computers tied together in a single system. This means there are numerous operations using electricity in vehicles, even when the engine is not running.

Once the engine is turned off, most cars computer systems will enter sleep mode, and reduce the amount of parasitic draw to less than 0.05 of an amp. Alarms, stereo systems, clocks, interior lights, engine management computers, GPS, Bluetooth, Wifi, charging docks, seat heating modules, and more are just a few operations that can drain a vehicle’s battery while the engine is off. Even bad instrument panels are known to cause parasitic drain. If one or more system fails to “go to sleep”, it can use up enough electricity to discharge a battery overnight.

Sometimes if the battery doesn’t discharge too much, the alternator can restore the energy when the car is driven. This process is called “deep cycling the battery”, in which the battery is deeply discharged and then restored. If a vehicle is experiencing this up and down cycle of battery problems, the issue needs to be fixed in order to make it stop. But can you stop parasitic drain? Or at least slow it down? Sure, as long as you are conservative with your car’s computer system use, and provide proper battery maintenance, you should experience the minimal standard for parasitic drain. But after a while, even the best quality car batteries die and will need to be replaced.

Proper Battery Maintenance

Talk to your local Indianapolis auto repair shop about your vehicle’s factory scheduled maintenance needs, and learn the right way to care for your battery. They can teach you what’s necessary for your vehicle’s battery life, as well as, all other areas of car maintenance. It is important to have your vehicle serviced at all the right intervals in order to increase safety, performance, and longevity.

Indianapolis Auto Service

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair and routine service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide domestic and foreign car repair and factory scheduled maintenance for all make and model vehicles. On top of competitive prices, we also offer car repair coupons and discounts! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate, today.

Car Tire FAQS

Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Our tires are one of the most important components on our vehicles. Without proper tire maintenance, you can risk damaging several other areas of your car or truck, as well as, reduce its overall performance value. Three aspects are most important when it comes to the tires on your car or truck: matching the proper tire-type to your particular vehicle, purchasing high-quality tires, and regular tire maintenance. If you meet these three standards for tires, then you are in good shape! If not, you need to get started learning about tire maintenance and care.

Until then, review some frequently asked questions regarding topics like tire pressure, tire load, and more.

What is a Tire Tread Rating?How Do I Do the Tire Tread Penny Trick?

This is a trick to test tire tread depth. Almost all states have a mandatory minimum for tire tread depth. In Indiana, this tire tread depth minimum is 2/32 of an inch for passenger car tires. This is measured from the top of the tire tread indicator, down to the top of the tread. You can use a penny to test this because the lettering over Abe Lincoln’s head on a penny measures out to exactly 2/32 of an inch tall! Fascinating isn’t it? If you can see the letters, your tread is too low!

Does Front and Back Tire Tread Have to Match?

Tire manufacturers design the particular tread pattern on tires. The science behind tread patterns is that it is supposed to enhance traction, channel mud, water, and snow away, and more. These tread patterns, can however, create a condition known as “tread steer” which causes the grooves to catch areas of the road that are irregular. This is not an issue if both the front and rear tires have different tread patterns. It is only a problem is tires on the same axel have different tread patterns.

How Do I Calculate Tire Load?

Tire loads are measured in ratings, and expressed in alpha-numeric or alpha characters. There are two parts to a tire load rating, a front and back, both defining how much weight your tires can safely manage when properly mounted and inflated. Tire load ratings will vary depending on the vehicle you drive. To calculate your tire load rating, you need to have your vehicle weighed, and then you will need to compensate for weight distribution. For many vehicles, this is 70-30, front to rear.

Indianapolis Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto at 317-475-1846 for affordable auto repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide domestic and foreign car repair for all make and model vehicles. On top of competitive prices, we also offer car repair coupons and discounts! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis auto service, today.

Where Can I Find My Car’s Service Maintenance Schedule?

If you are looking for a car service maintenance schedule for a particular make and model vehicle, you shouldn’t have much trouble. That is because finding one is easy to do! In fact, they can usually be found in your vehicles owner’s manual.

But sometimes, that tiny little book goes missing after so many years. But not to worry since replacing it is inexpensive and simple. Most often, it’s even free! Continue reading to learn where to find a replacement service maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Owner’s Manuals

As mentioned, the first place to look for your vehicle service maintenance schedule is the owner’s manual. Generally, this comes with the paperwork when you purchase your car. In most of the time it’s located in the glove compartment, but it can also be located in the trunk, under a seat, or in a pouch behind a seat. If you didn’t purchase a car brand-new, the manual is usually in the glove compartment. If it’s not there, and it’s not anywhere else, simply move on to your other two options!

Online

Virtually all car maintenance schedules are available online via PDF downloads. There are several websites you can visit that offer downloadable generic vehicular maintenance schedules; some are free and some are for a small fee. Just be sure to choose a secure website before paying for anything. Most often, the free downloads are just as good.

Books

If the above two options fail you, simply visit a bookstore or library’s automotive section. Many local libraries actually carry car owner manuals, while bookstores are usually a guaranteed place to find information regarding your cars particular make and model. Depending on which publication you choose, prices will vary. Owner manuals can cost anywhere from $2 to $100 or more.

Local Mechanic

You may also be able to visit your local auto repair shop and get free information regarding your vehicles service maintenance schedule. Simply give your trusted mechanic a call and ask!

Indianapolis Auto Repair

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 when you need trusted Indianapolis car maintenance at an affordable price. We are ASE certified car mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive repair and service industry. We work on all make and model vehicles, providing everything from factory scheduled maintenance to major engine work and more. Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate for auto service in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

Consider the Gift of a Roadside Emergency Kit for New Drivers

With school back in season, your teenager is eager to put their brand-new drivers’ license to use, and say goodbye to carpools and school buses for good. But before handing those car keys over, there is one more gift to consider that will keep your teen safe and you at ease. We’re talking about a roadside emergency vehicle kit. With an emergency kit in your teen’s designated car, you can feel confident they won’t ever be stranded without any helpful supplies.

But roadside emergency kits can do far more for your teenager. They can also teach young drivers about preventative care, vehicle responsibility, and of course, driving safety. Continue reading to learn how to assemble the perfect roadside emergency vehicle kit, and where to find the best advice for vehicle maintenance.

Roadside Emergency Vehicle Kits

The best part about roadside emergency kits is that they are inexpensive and easy to assemble. All supplies can be found at any local automotive store for a reasonable price. You can customize your own kit, which means price will vary depending on the products you choose, or you can choose from a wide selection of pre-assembled roadside kits. Either choice is equally effective.

It is entirely up to you and the individual needs of your kid’s vehicle. For instance, if your teen’s car has old tires, it would be wise to include a spare, and parts to change a tire. And for those who live in climates where rain and precipitation is regular, it is wise to include extra windshield wiper fluid and spare blades. Simply choose a kit that includes everything you believe is relevant to your teen’s vehicle, climate, and driving habits.

Here are some recommendations for roadside emergency kits:

⚠ First Aid Kit
⚠ Portable USB Charger
⚠ Spare Tire
⚠ Car Jack
⚠ Jumper Cables
⚠ Tire Sealant
⚠ Automotive Fuses
⚠ Reflective Road Markers
⚠ Safety Flares
⚠ Distress Flags
⚠ Ice Scraper
⚠ Small Snow Shovel
⚠ Windshield Wiper Fluid
⚠ Flashlight w/Extra Batteries
⚠ Blanket
⚠ Whistle
⚠ Rain Poncho
⚠ Bottled Water
⚠ Non-Perishable Snacks
⚠ Emergency Road Manual
⚠ Leather Gloves
⚠ Duct Tape

 

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for free advice about roadside emergency kits. We are ASE certified mechanics that provide a wide range of automotive services at the most competitive prices in town. When you need Indianapolis car maintenance, whether a simple oil change or complete tune-up, we are the experienced professionals to call. We also offer auto repair and service coupons! Contact us directly at 317-475-1846 to learn more about car maintenance services in
Indianapolis, IN today.

How to Check Your Car Tires for Wear and Tear

Without tires, our vehicles go nowhere. So we need to make sure we check them often. There are many reasons why you should periodically check the condition of your vehicle’s tires. But the most important ones have to do with safety, performance, and gas mileage. By ensuring your vehicle’s tires are in good condition, you are better ensuring your safety while out on the road, as well as, improving your vehicle’s gas mileage and performance. And all you really need is a penny and a few minutes to get this done! Continue reading to for a helpful guide to car tire inspection and care.

What to Look For

It is recommended to inspect the state of your vehicle’s tires at least every month, and always after driving through rugged terrain (i.e. off roads, gravel, construction zones, river rock, etc.). When doing so, you should be checking for three things:

1. Physical Wear and Tear
2. Tire Alignment
3. Tire Pressure

The Penny Test

What is commonly referred to as the “penny test” in the automotive service industry, is a simple and effective method of assessing a tire’s tread. And you really only need a penny to do it. Once you have your penny in hand, insert it into the groove of your tire. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it means the tread is low and it is time to replace your vehicle’s tires. It’s that easy!

Tire Inflation

If you check your tire tread and it’s in good shape, you are ready to examine the tire pressure. Proper tire pressure is important for a variety of reasons, mostly in terms of safety, but also for handling, traction, and fuel consumption. Low tire pressure will also cause tires to wear unevenly, needing them to be replaced sooner. So it is vital to catch low tire pressure early on and correct it as soon as possible. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in your vehicle’s tires. You can purchase this tool for a few dollars at any automotive or hardware store. Check your vehicle’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to check tire pressure, or call your local auto repair shop for free advice. And don’t forget to check your spare tire too!

Tire Alignment

Once you have checked your tire pressure, you need to check the alignment. Test drive your car, and look for signs of shaking or pulling to one side. These are signs of alignment issues, in which case, you’ll need to visit your local mechanic for auto alignment services. While you are there, they will also balance and rotate your tires, which is a critical part of tire care.

Northeast Auto Service

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 when you need fast and affordable car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, foreign and domestic. And as a family owned and operated auto repair shop, we are committed to offering the most competitive prices in town! You can choose from our selection of auto repair coupons for additional savings too! Call 317-475-1846 for a free estimate, or for information about our Indianapolis
auto repair services
today.

When Do I Need Auto Air Conditioner Service?

When it comes to your vehicle’s air conditioning, there is no owners’ manual recommendation for how often you should have it serviced. Unlike other routine car maintenance needs, like fluid and filter changes, the proper schedule for auto air conditioner service is unclear. Now that spring is here, many people are already making the switch from heating to cooling, in both vehicles and homes. So this time of year, many drivers are questioning their auto AC needs. After all, smart car owners know that preventative maintenance is the key to a long-lasting life for any vehicle. Continue reading for a look at how to assess your auto air conditioner requirements, and who to call for professional service you can trust.

Auto AC Maintenance

To determine your auto AC maintenance needs, you must consider the condition and overall performance of your vehicle. A good place to start is familiarizing yourself with known indications of auto AC problems, and keeping an eye out for these signs as you use your system. Signs include:

Luke Warm Air – One of the most common signs of auto AC malfunction is reduced coolness. When you notice your air is just not as cold as it used to be, it is a sign that something is not quite right with your car.

Strange Noises – If your car begins to make strange or unfamiliar noises when you turn on the AC, you may need auto air conditioner service. Generally, this is an indication of a compressor malfunction, one of the more costly parts of a vehicle. For this reason, immediate service is strongly recommended.

Strange Smells – If the air produced by your AC begins to smell funny, it could be caused by a buildup of bacteria on the evaporator or filter. A simple treatment will remove any bacterial buildup, but must be administered by a trained automotive technician.

Interior Condensation – When water begins to drip or accumulate inside the interior areas of your vehicle, it is a sign that something is wrong with the air conditioning system, most likely, clogged drains. This problem should be addressed immediately to avoid mold and mildew growth, which is harmful to your health.

If you see water beneath your vehicle after driving with the AC on…

This is perfectly normal. When you see a pool of water under your parked car, it is just condensation from the evaporator. This would not be a sign that something is wrong with your vehicles cooling system. But if you still suspect something may be wrong with your car or truck, it is best to bring it into a reputable auto repair shop for professional inspection and service. An ounce of prevention goes a long way towards increasing the life and performance of your vehicle.

There is not a particular schedule for auto AC maintenance. The best way to maintain your car’s heating and cooling is to continue getting the scheduled car maintenance your owners’ manual suggests. During these routine visits, an auto mechanic should be able to catch small problems early on, before they can turn into costly auto AC repairs.

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for auto air conditioning repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive service and repair industry. We offer a wide range of automotive services for all make and model cars and trucks, all at the most competitive prices in town. Ask us about our auto service coupons too! Call us today at 317-475-1846 to schedule an appointment for auto AC repair service in Indianapolis, IN.

Recommended Factory Scheduled Maintenance for All Vehicles

Vehicles are one of the most valuable and significant assets in a person’s life. Purchasing a car or truck is a big investment, which is why protecting it is so crucial. When it comes to your car or truck, factory scheduled maintenance is the answer to a long-lasting, reliable, and healthy vehicle. Every 5,000 miles, all vehicles should be taken to a licensed mechanic for factory scheduled services. Continue reading to learn the most important routine maintenance and care obligations in order to make your vehicular investment last a lot longer.

Fluid and Oil Changes

One of the most obvious and common factory scheduled maintenance for cars and trucks is fluid changes. This includes oil changes, brake fluid, motor oil, coolant or antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, fluid refills, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and power steering fluids. As you can see, cars operate on several different fluids, all of which serve a very important purpose. Without some of these fluids being refilled or replaced, a person can put themselves at risk while driving, or total their vehicles in the long run.

Tire Maintenance

Tires are the components of a vehicle that make contact with the ground and keep us moving in the direction we choose. Tires are vital components and require routine care for safety and longevity. Services such as tire balancing, tire rotations, changing tires, air refills, tread checks, tire inspections, and more are all vital parts of vehicle protection and care.

Vehicle Batteries

Without a properly charged and operational battery, one cannot expect their vehicle to function at all. Batteries in cars and trucks require routine maintenance and eventual replacement. They also require fluid refills and changes, depending on the make and model vehicle and the particular circumstances. Sometimes we leave the car lights on overnight by accident, which drains the battery life.

Then when you try to start your car in the morning, it won’t even make a sound. All you have to do is re-charge the battery in this case; a task that takes only a few minutes. All you need is car cables and another vehicle’s engine for power and juice. If you did not leave on your lights, or leave a door ajar for too long, and your battery id dead, it probably just needs replaced. A new car battery is cheap, costing anywhere from $50 to $80 depending on the type you choose.

Northeast Auto Service

Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Indianapolis Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed automotive mechanics that provide service and repair for all make and model vehicles. We also offer discounts, auto repair coupons, DIY advice, and general information about regular scheduled car maintenance. Call 317-475-1846 when you need trusted automotive service in Indianapolis, IN.