How to Choose an Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust

When it comes to finding an auto repair shop you can trust, it’s important to do your research. You want a licensed mechanic who is knowledgeable and experienced in working on your make and model of car. It’s also important to find one that has good customer service with fair prices. With the right auto repair business, you can be sure your car will be serviced properly and safely so you can get back on the road as soon as possible.

Below are some important tips for selecting the best auto repair shop for all of your automotive needs.

Call 317-475-1846 When You Need an Auto Repair Shop in Indianapolis Indiana.
Call 317-475-1846 When You Need an Auto Repair Shop in Indianapolis Indiana.

Be Diligent When Looking for a Good Automotive Repair Shop

1. Ask For Recommendations – Talk to friends and family members who have recently had repairs done on their vehicles. They can provide you with helpful information about the auto repair shop they used and if they would recommend it based on their experience. You can also contact your local Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce to see if there are any complaints lodged against a particular automotive service and repair business.

2. Check For Certifications – A good auto repair shop will be certified by leading automotive organizations, like Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This certification ensures that the mechanics working at the shop are experienced in safely servicing all makes and models of cars, as well as being knowledgeable about the latest automotive technology.

3. Make Sure The Shop Uses Quality Parts – Before committing to a repair, inquire about the type of parts being used for the repairs. Quality parts are essential for proper performance and safe operation of your car, so they should always be used when possible. If a shop says they can do a repair on the cheap but use substandard or recycled parts, it’s best to look for another option.

4. Get Quotes From Multiple Shops – Once you have narrowed down your list of potential auto repair shops, get an estimate from each one so you can make an educated decision on who to go with. Some mechanics may try to add in extra services that aren’t necessary, so it is important to get multiple quotes to compare.

5. Read Reviews – Before making a final decision, it’s also helpful to read online reviews from past customers. This will give you an idea of the quality of service and customer satisfaction that can be expected when choosing a particular auto repair shop.

Get In Touch With a Trusted Indianapolis Mechanic Today

By taking the time to do your research and following these tips, you can find an auto repair shop you can trust for all of your automotive needs.  With the right Indianapolis automotive repair shop on your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that any work done on your car is safe and reliable.

Want to just skip the hassle of searching around for trusted auto repair businesses in the Indy area? Good – because you are already in the right spot! Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for superior, ASE licensed auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We service all make and model vehicles.

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Recommended Maintenance for a Car That Has Not Been Driven in a While

Whether you have been away for business or finally decided to take that old classic out of storage, a vehicle that has been parked for a long period of time will require some specialized auto care. Continue below to learn the recommended maintenance for a car that has not been driven in a while, plus which auto repair shop in Indianapolis to trust for superior service at neighborhood prices.

Automotive Service Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Automotive Service Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

Automotive Maintenance Tips for a Sitting Car

Hopefully you implemented some preventative maintenance to your vehicle before it took its long hiatus. But even if you didn’t, do not worry. There is still a chance that the right maintenance approach will get your ride operating safely and efficiently. Here are the top areas to focus on when planning to get your long-sitting car back in operation and out there on the open road once again:

Fluids

Did the tank have gas in it? If so, be sure to drain it and fill it up with some new stuff. Gasoline does expire. You want to also flush and refill all other vital automotive fluids, like brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper cleaner, and of course, motor oil. Unless you have keen mechanic skills, it is not recommended to do this yourself. Trust a licensed Indianapolis auto shop to service your car professionally.

Battery

Your battery needs more than just fluid to operate. It also need charge. Overtime, batteries drain of charge, and in lengthier stints of non-operation, will drain beyond the point of a jumpstart. In most cases of a long-sitting car, the battery will need to be replaced with a new one. Fortunately, car batteries are not expensive, plus you can change it yourself!

Tires

Not only do tires lose air pressure during long periods of non-use, but they also develop flat spots. These flat areas develop at the bottom of the tire and cause permanent shape change, so the tire can no longer be round. We need well-rounded and balanced tires for smooth and efficient operation, so in this case, it would be necessary to replace any damaged tires.

Extended Periods of Non-Use

Vehicles that have been sitting for a really long time are likely to incur some additional automotive damages, like rust formation, belt and hose deterioration, and even pest infestations. If your car has sat without being driven for a very long time, perhaps over a year or more, you should have it inspected by a licensed mechanic for dried out rubber belts and hoses, plus any potential wildlife damages like chewed electrical wiring or insulation. You can treat rust yourself to a certain extent using store-bought rust removal cleaners and kits.

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

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How to Detect Automotive Failure With Your Ears

While driving, one might hear nothing but the purring of their car engine and the clicking of their turn signal. But there are times when a person can experience another set of noises they have never heard before; or ones that certainly startle. Such noises are not desirable, as they may portend the certainty of repairs and maintenance work ahead. But not to worry; most car noises, like thumping, crackling, grinding, and squeaking, are perfectly resolvable. The first step is to diagnose the cause of the noise or noises, and there are three very common noises that are related to a number of common repairs.

Continue reading to learn the top 3 most common car noises, how to listen for them, and what they might mean in terms of auto repair and service.

Engine Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846
Engine Repair Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Car Noises That Indicate a Problem

Metal Grinding

If you are hearing metal on metal grinding sounds coming from somewhere in your car, this could possibly be the brakes.  Brakes are made up of balanced parts, each with a particular path that allows them to harmoniously work together toward a common goal of stopping the car. If any of these parts are worn or off-set, it can create noises that sound like grinding. This means your car is probably in need of some new brake pads, or possibly even some new rotors. It is always best to have a certified technician take a look to be sure what the catalyst for the noise really is. 

Aggressive Clunking

If you are suddenly hearing a heavy thumping or clanging sound coming from your vehicle, there is no telling whether or not it’s a serious or complex repair without further investigating some areas. These sounds could be occurring for a number of reasons, such as worn out or broken joints on a drive shaft and bad shocks. On the minor side, sometimes you just have something really heavy in your trunk and you keep hitting bumps on the road. Check your trunk, and if it turns out that’s not the issue, contact an auto repair shop to investigate further for you.

Whistling Engine Noise

This is not like the whistle of a train or trolley, but more like a hissing sound seeping out of your engine.  Sometimes this sound is followed by heavy steam coming from the engine and can even last after the car is turned off. The root of the whistling can be a variety of reasons, from cooling system leaks to overheated engines. Again, it is best to check with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately.  You do not want to risk a faulty repair job on your only means of transportation!

Concerned about the noises and sounds coming from your car or truck? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for engine repair and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana you can afford. We also offer auto service coupons and discounts!

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Indianapolis Auto Repair Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair Service 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.

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Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 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

Is a Car Warranty the Same as Car Insurance?

When it comes time to have your car repaired, will you turn to your car’s warranty or your auto insurance policy? What’s the difference between the two? What do they each cover? Continue reading to learn whether or not a car warranty is the same as car insurance.

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

Car Insurance

Car insurance offers different types of protections for car owners. There are thousands of insurance carriers to choose from, some of which specialize solely in auto protection, while others maintaining a broad selection of insurance coverage models. Additionally, there are varying degrees of coverage, with policies ranging from liability only, to full, comprehensive coverage. If you wreck your car, or your car is damaged by vandalism, theft, fire, or inclement weather, your car insurance policy would be the protection plan applied when paying for repairs. New car warranties are not meant to cover repairs such as these.

New Car Warranties vs. Extended Car Warranties

Opposite of standard auto insurance policies, new car warranties are geared more toward covering things like mechanical breakdowns and auto part replacements, and they are only for a set period of time that will eventually run out. General warranty limits are between 3 and 10 years, or 36,000 miles and 100,000 miles. There are several different models for car warranties, all of which can be supplied by the car’s manufacturer, the dealer, or a third-party provider. For new cars, manufacturers generally provide a new car warranty, also called a factory warranty. For used cars, dealers will often offer a used or extended car warranty, or you can purchase one from a separate provider.

Bumper-to-Bumper and Power Train Warranties

Regardless of which warranty you have for your car, there are two primary types of coverages they provide, “bumper-to-bumper and “power train” coverage. Bumper-to-bumper coverage generally covers auto repairs for electronics like navigation, heating, and cooling. Power train coverage generally covers auto repairs for engine and transmission malfunctions.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Maintenance at a Price You CAN Afford

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional and affordable auto repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including transmission repairs, fuel system repairs, and general automotive maintenance services. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.

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

When to Have Your Vehicle’s Suspension Serviced

Car suspension problems should be uncovered early on to reduce the amount of damage, repair, and cost associated with the system. Worn out car suspensions can be dangerous for the driver, as well as the vehicle itself.  If you are hearing a knocking-like noise or have worn tires, then you may need to have your suspension checked out.

Continue reading to learn the top three reasons to get your car suspension system inspected, and the consequences of poor suspension maintenance.

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

Get Your Suspension Checked Out if You Have…

🚘☑ Car Alignment Problems

If you cover numerous miles per week driving to and from work or anywhere else, then at some point you will need to get a realignment for your vehicle. The best way to check if you are experiencing problems with your alignment is to pay close attention to the direction the vehicle pulls. Try doing this in the safest way possible, such as slowly approaching a stop sign, and right before reaching it, lightly undo your grip from the steering wheel. If the vehicle continues in a straight path to the stop sign, then your alignment is in good shape for now; however, if it veers to the left or right, you need to have the area checked out and fixed. When you get your alignment worked on, the inspection includes an entire area check. Sway bar links, struts, bearing, bushings, ball joints, and more are some areas that will be reviewed.

🚘☑ Daily Commutes

If you are driving through areas such as construction zones and gravel lots, then you are subject to experience frequent issues with your vehicle’s suspension and more.  Road where paving has been stripped, as well as roads that carry obtrusive debris or rocks can cause severe wear and tear on your tires. Over time, it can put excessive strain on the struts and shocks. It can also loosen the bolts near the tires. This can be a dangerous situation. One way to check the condition of your shocks and struts is to park the car, then get out and lean on one side. When you let off, if the car bounces more than once, you need to have your vehicle inspected. Even the smallest bounce can grow bigger over time.

🚘☑ A Car Accident

One of the most common reasons to have your car suspension system checked out is if your car has been involved in an accident. Car wrecks and crashed can have a significant impact on the overall condition and drivability of your vehicle. The impact of a car crash can easily throw off your vehicle’s alignment and damage its suspension. Although you may focus on getting the cosmetic damages fixed, there is more to look for following a car accident.

Indianapolis Suspension Inspection, Service and Repair You Can Trust

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

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

Test Your Automotive Knowledge with this Quiz!

How well do you know your vehicle? Many car owners are great drivers, but don’t necessarily know how their vehicle works and operates. This is perfectly acceptable, since you don’t need comprehensive mechanical automotive knowledge to operate a vehicle safely; however, it can certainly be enlightening learning new things about your car that you didn’t know before. And who knows? Perhaps you will surprise yourself with all the automotive knowledge you currently retain!

Take the challenge and complete the automotive quiz below, and then assess your score at the bottom of the page to see how well you did!

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

Your Automotive Challenge Awaits…

Start by taking the quiz and recording each of your choices. Then compare your answers to the scoreboard at the bottom of the quiz. Good luck!

Question #1

Which Type of Fluid is Used to Lubricate a Car’s Engine?

  1. Windshield Wiper Fluid
  2. Coolant
  3. Motor Oil
  4. Anti-Freeze

Question #2

Which Car Part is Made from the Rare Metal, Platinum?

  1. Pistons
  2. Catalytic Converter
  3. Crank Case
  4. Muffler

Question #3

What Service Does Your Car Require for Optimal On-Going Performance?

  1. Oil Change
  2. Radiator Flush
  3. Alignment
  4. All of the Above

Question #4

For What Reason Could a Check Engine Light Be On?

  1. Loose Gas Cap
  2. Flat Tire
  3. Broken Windshield Wiper
  4. All of the Above

Question #5

What Do You Need to Flush a Radiator?

  1. Funnel, Coolant Receptacle, and Cloth
  2. Phillips Screw Driver
  3. Radiator Flush and Anti-Freeze
  4. All of the Above

Question #6

What Do You Need to Startup a Dead Car Battery?

  1. Wrench
  2. Jumper-Cables
  3. Screw Driver
  4. Battery Fluid

Question #7

If a Car Bounces While Driving, What Could Be the Problem Area?

  1. Engine
  2. Fuel Tank
  3. Suspension
  4. Power Steering

Question #8

Which Fluid Do You Require to Control Engine Temperatures?

  1. Brake Fluid
  2. Motor Oil
  3. Water
  4. Coolant

Question #9

Which Automotive Part Dims the Noise Produced by an Engine?

  1. Muffler
  2. Exhaust
  3. Transmission
  4. Ignition

Question #10

What Does an Odometer Measure?

  1. Distance
  2. Speed
  3. Fuel Level
  4. Engine Temperature

Now Check Your Score!

Answer Key: 1-c, 2-b, 3-d, 4-a, 5-d, 6-b, 7-c, 8-d, 9-a, 10-a

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service Pros You Can Trust

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 auto repair coupons or discounts to get the best deal in town.

Why is My Car Engine Overheating?

It’s a common occurrence: You are driving down the road, enjoying the traffic-free afternoon, when all of a sudden, your engine’s temperature gauge goes way up. Yes, that’s right; your car engine is overheated. But why? Many people can understand the problems associated with an overheating engine, and the damage it can cause to a vehicle; but many don’t know why it happens in the first place.

Continue reading for a brief look at 6 common reasons why your car’s engine may be overheating all the time.

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

The Radiator Fluid is Low

Radiator fluid, also called coolant, keeps the motor cool during operation. When your car beings to run out of coolant, your engine is unable to effectively transfer all the heat it produces, so it overheats. This is the first place to always inspect when your car engine is overheating. Simply refill with coolant and water, and that’s it! Your vehicle should be just fine. But if that’s not it…

The Radiator is Clogged

A clogged radiator happens overtime as grease and muck builds up inside. If a car has more than 50,000 miles on it, it is at higher risk for radiator clogs. To avoid this, be sure to have your vehicle’s radiator flushed on an annual basis. This is a cheap and quick service you can get at almost any auto shop or service station.

You Have a Coolant Leak

Perhaps your car is low on coolant because it has a leak in the radiator. When a car cannot sustain its coolant levels, it cannot properly regulate heat transfer in the engine. This causes a car to overheat. 

The Coolant Fan is Malfunctioning

On the topic of coolant, it could be that the coolant fan is defective or not operating properly. This part is easy to check. Simply pop the hood and the coolant fan is located on top, next to the radiator. See if the fan is sluggish or slow. If, so it could be the cause of your engine overheating problems. It could be the electric fan, or it could be the radiator switch. An Indianapolis mechanic can figure that out for you.

The Fan Belt Broke

A broken fan belt will cause a car engine to overheat rapidly. If the fan belt is broken, it is highly likely that other engine components are malfunctioning too. Mostly older vehicles have fan belts, but they are easy to repair. All you have to do to check for a broken fan belt is look at your car’s engine.

The Thermostat is Closed

If your vehicle’s thermostat will not stay open, then your car will overheat. This is because the thermostat controls the amount of coolant released while a vehicle is in operation. If it’s defective, it cannot read the temperature and open the coolant flow as needed. This will cause overheating issues quickly.

Cheap Car Engine Repair in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car engine repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including major engine work. Best of all, we offer customer conveniences like free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, automotive repair coupons and discounts, and competitive pricing.

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

When it comes to cutting back and saving money, a great place to start is with your car. Vehicles can be a major expense since they require routine maintenance, regular fuel fill-ups, fluid changes, and basic protection, to ensure performance and reliability. All of these automotive requirements cost money, making car care an important part of investment protection. If you are taking care of your car to the best of your ability, you are already on the right path. However, adding a few more car care tips and tricks to improve your car maintenance acumen can’t hurt!

Continue reading to learn some vital automotive care and maintenance tips that can help you stay safe and save money.

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

Gas Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

Everyone wants to preserve as much fuel as possible in order to save money on gasoline. Here are the best ways to ensure you are:

☑ Slow down a little when you drive, and avoid revving the gas.
☑ Remove excess items from the trunk to reduce vehicular weight.
☑ Stay current on all factory scheduled maintenance and minor repairs.
☑ Carpool as often as possible.
☑ Use alternative transportation, like bikes, buses, Ubers, and more.
☑ Use the proper fuel grade.

Tire Care

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. Be sure to regularly check your tire tread. Here in Indiana, the tire tread minimum is 2/32 of an inch for passenger car tires. Use the “penny test” to assess your tire tread. Simply insert a penny 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.

Windshield Wiper Malfunctions

Although you have your windshield wipers and wiper fluid to rely on, it never hurts to have a backup plan when it comes to rain. One such hack is to use a spray-on rain resistant product. These products are perfectly safe for your car’s windshield, plus they are fairly priced and available at any local convenient store or automotive store. You can also order these products online. We Recommend Rain-X® 2-in-1 Glass Cleaner w/Rain Repellent, available at most department stores.

Car Cleanliness

Believe it or not, keeping your car clean will help it last a lot longer! This includes routine interior cleaning, such as vacuuming, dusting, and sanitizing, as well as, exterior cleaning, including the under body, windows, wheels, bumper, and all other exterior areas. Eliminating dust, dirt, and debris improves a vehicle’s performance, safety, and of course, appeal. For this reason, try to clean your car once every month. In fact, see our recent blog, “How to Wash Your Car Using the Rain” for a fun alternative to the car wash!

Factory 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 mechanic about your car’s individual needs.

Regular Inspections and Early Detections

Be sure to have your vehicle inspected regularly by a licensed mechanic. Brakes, lights, and other important components need regular inspection and service to ensure driving safety and efficiency. To determine how often your vehicle needs serviced, refer to your car’s manual, or ask a licensed auto mechanic in your area. See our blog, “Where Can I Find My Car’s Service Maintenance Schedule?” for help.

Indianapolis Automotive Maintenance and Repair at an Affordable Price

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles, including transmission repairs, fuel system repairs, and general automotive maintenance services. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846