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

Quick Review on How to Flush a Car Radiator

When you get in your car and turn the ignition, the engine fires up and the car instantly begins producing heat.  It continues to produce high levels of heat as you drive. The job of the car’s radiator is to cool the engine so that it doesn’t overheat. It does this by transferring heat through the process of thermal heat exchange. If a vehicle has a larger engine; for instance, a truck, then a larger radiator would be needed to withstand the extra power and heat production.

Generally, radiators are manufactured with aluminum.  This is because it is durable, lightweight, and disperses heat evenly, more so than other metals. It is important to have a general understanding about radiators in cars, trucks, and any other type of vehicle you intend on working with.  Do-it-yourself car maintenance can be risky if you do not know what you are doing. 

If you have a good comprehension on cars and regular maintenance, then continue reading to learn tips and advice on proper ways to flush a car’s radiator. If not, then call a professional auto repair company that can instruct you with the right information for radiator repair and service.

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

Considerations When Flushing Your Car’s Radiator:

It is crucial to clean out your radiator routinely.  Solid deposits can build up inside the radiator causing the entire system to function irregularly.  This can lead to your car overheating or more serious damages.  A clean radiator stays much cooler as well.  Luckily, radiator flushing doesn’t cost much and is pretty easy to do as long as you are familiar with DIY car maintenance! 

First, be sure you have all the necessary equipment and products to get the job done correctly and safely.  These items would typically include a funnel, a cloth rag, coolant, flush solution, a bucket or coolant catcher, and a Phillips screw driver.

Never start a radiator job on a hot car or engine.  Let the system cool down entirely.  This could take up to two or three hours depending on how long the car was driven prior.  Spilling hot coolant on you can be very dangerous, and lead to second, and possibly third, degree burns.  

Avoid leaving coolant exposed and out in the open.  Pets, animals, and even children can be harmed by ingesting the fluid.  You see, coolant has a sweet smell and taste, which can attract these types of victims.  Always be responsible with coolant disposal as well.

UH OH. Didn’t work? Enlist an ASE licensed mechanic for the job! Professional car radiator flushing is fast and affordable!

Indianapolis Car Radiator and Exhaust Services

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE certified automotive radiator service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide comprehensive automotive service and repair for all make and model vehicles, as well as, free estimates, free advice, and auto repair coupons! Schedule an appointment for a free estimate, today!

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

How to Make Your Own Windshield Wiper Deicer

Here in Indiana, you just can be too sure about the weather. The Groundhog saw his shadow on February 2nd, yet the snow still came soon after anyway. And just because the snow is almost melted away doesn’t mean that it wont soon be back. For this reason, we must all be prepared. One thing you can do to be ready for the next snowstorm is make your own windshield wiper deicing solution. So, next time your car’s windshield is taking too long to defrost, just whip out your trusty, homemade deicer, and watch in fascination just how fast it works. You will be asking yourself why you haven’t used this method all your life!

Continue reading to learn how to make your own, fast-acting windshield wiper deicer.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846
Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846317-475-1846

What You Will Need

There really isn’t an easier and more effective solution to make than this homemade windshield deicer. That’s because you only need two ingredients and a plastic spray bottle. Which ingredients? Well, only readily available ones that you likely already have on hand: rubbing alcohol and water! You can also use Isopropyl alcohol if you do not have rubbing alcohol. Be sure to get a plastic bottle that is large enough to hold the total volume of liquid this recipe calls for, which is 24 ounces, or 3 cups.

☑ Rubbing Alcohol – 2 Cups (16 oz)
☑ Room Temperature Water – 1 Cup (8 oz)
☑ 32 Ounce Plastic Spray Bottle

How to Make Your Deicing Solutions

Combine 1 part water with 2 parts rubbing alcohol (or Isopropyl alcohol) into your plastic bottle. You can use the measurements listed above to make a 24 ounce solution, or you can simply use the 1:2 ratio to make your own amount of solution.

To use your solution, simply spray your windshield generously while your car’s defrost is on. Then watch as the frost melts away!

Store your solution in your car. Rubbing alcohol won’t freeze until the climate reaches 28 degrees below zero! So, it will always be ready for use, no matter how cold it is outside.

Looking for Quality Car Maintenance Service in Indianapolis?

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional auto repair and car maintenance 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 comprehensive inspections following a car accident. 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. See our coupon, below!

FAQS About Auto Service and Maintenance

Do you want to know the secret to making your vehicle last a really long time? It’s proper auto maintenance and care, and it’s not really a secret at all. In order to get your vehicle to last you for years, and run in good condition, you must be serious about routine auto maintenance and proper auto care. Not only can you increase your vehicle’s lifespan, you can protect yourself from costly breakdowns and huge repair bills.

Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about auto care, and perhaps learn a little more about what it takes to protect and preserve your vehicle.

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

When Do I Change the Oil in My Car?

Several factors will influence the length of intervals between oil changes and other factory scheduled maintenance. These factors can include the region you live in, the type of car you drive, the type of fuel it uses, your driving habits, its total number of miles, its overall condition, and more. It is best to consult your owners’ manual or a licensed mechanic for specific recommendations. However, the standard “rule of thumb” is to change your oil every 3,000 or every 6 months, whichever comes first.

What Fluids Do I Put in My Car?

There are seven vital fluids that every vehicle requires for safe and optimal performance. These include windshield wiper fluid, coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, battery fluid, and power steering fluid. They all require periodic flushes and refills, and most need to be done by a trained mechanic. You should be able to add your own coolant and windshield wiper fluid, hassle-free.

How Do I Check Car Tire Inflation?

In vehicles equipped with TPMS, a light will illuminate on the dashboard to indicate unsafe tire pressure detection. This light will remain on until the air pressure imbalance is resolved. Those without a modern tire pressure monitoring system in their vehicle are left to use manual tire gauges to measure tire pressure. You can choose between a digital gauge or a “pop-out” style gauge. In order to use a tire pressure gauge properly, be sure to begin on a “cold” car that has not been driven in the past few hours. Then just refer to the manufacturer instructions for a step-by-step guide on how to use your tire pressure gauge.

How Do I Check Tire Tread on My Car?

Use the penny test to measure your car’s tire tread. 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!

Which Side is My Gas Tank On?

If you want to prevent the onset panic of pulling up to a gas pump and being unsure of which side your fuel tank is on, simply look at the gas pump icon on your dashboard. Near the fuel gauge or icon, you will see a small arrow, usually without a handle, like these “ƒ„.” Whichever side the point is facing is the side your fuel tank door is on.

Where is My Car’s Maintenance Schedule?

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, download a generic vehicular maintenance schedule online or visit a bookstore or library’s automotive section. You may also be able to visit your local auto repair shop and get free information regarding your vehicles service maintenance schedule.

Do I Need to Use a Certified Car Mechanic?

You never want to use an unlicensed or unofficial car mechanic when you need work on your car. Additionally, you do not want to blindly choose a mechanic either. The best decision you can make to ensure accuracy, effectiveness, and warranty-standards is to take your car to a skilled, ASE-certified automotive mechanic. See our blog, “Why is it Important to Use an ASE Certified Car Mechanic?” to learn more about the importance of finding skilled car repair work.

Where Can I Get Trusted Indianapolis Auto Repair Service?

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.

How to Make Your Own Hanging Car Air Freshener

Hanging a new car air freshener on your rear-view mirror is a great feeling, and you get some pleasurable aroma therapy. But just as soon as you open your new scented ornament, the clock starts ticking down to the moment you need to replace it with a new one. Rather than continuing the cycle of tossing out old air fresheners and buying new ones, you can simply make your own with a few humble supplies. With your own car air freshener, all you have to do is reapply your fragrance to revitalize that pleasurable aroma therapy and fresh smell!

Continue reading to learn what you need to get started!

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

What You Will Need:

✅ Thin Wooden Ornament of Your Choice Scented
✅ Essential Oil of Your Choice
✅ Small Glass Dish
✅ Small Paintbrush
✅ Small Sealable Plastic Bag (i.e. Ziplock®)
✅ Small Drill or a Thick Nail and Hammer
✅ Old Towel or Napkins
✅ Twine

Notes: When shopping at your local crafts section, opt for a wooden ornament that already has a string attached for hanging. Otherwise, you will need to also purchase some twine, and drill a hole (or hammer a hole) through the top of the ornament so that you may loop the twine string through the hole and create a hoop for hanging.

Trick: Rather than buying a new wooden ornament to fragrance, you can use an old car air fresher (like the tree-shaped ones) instead!

Instructions:

➀ After you make your hole and attach the twine for hanging, you are ready to take the next step in the process of making your own car air freshener! Here is what to do:

➁ Lay out an old towel or spread out some napkins for a safe work surface.

➂ Pour your essential oil into a small glass dish.

➃ Dip your paintbrush into the dish of essential oil and then “paint” the surface of the wooden ornament. Generously cover the entire top surface and the sides, then flip it over and paint the back side.

➄ Once you have painted all sides of the ornament, place it inside a re-sealable plastic bag and allow it to absorb all the oils overnight.

➅ The next day, hang your car air freshener in your vehicle and hit the road happy!

RE-APPLICATIONS: After a few weeks, you can freshen up your homemade car air freshener by simply dabbing it with a cotton swab with more essential oil. If you like, you can change up the scents, or combine them to create new ones

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Care

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service 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. 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

Recommended Spring Cleaning for Your Car

Spring is here, which means everyone is scrambling to get all their post-seasonal and pre-seasonal responsibilities done in time to enjoy the several months of nice weather ahead. Most often, people tend to focus solely on duties like house cleaning, yard work, organizational projects, and similar tasks; but what many people tend to overlook are their cars! Vehicles need a spring cleaning too, from routine fluid changes and engine tune-ups, to wheel brightening, car washes, interior shampoos, and more!

Continue reading to learn what you should have done for your vehicle in terms of routine maintenance, this spring.

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

Seasonal Auto Service and Repair

As for springtime automotive car, you can handle most of the cosmetic work on your own. This includes car washes, clear coats, waxing, tire shining, upholstery shampooing, and detailing. Of course, you can always have these tasks done by a professional automotive detailing business too.

But when it comes to mechanical maintenance for your vehicles, it is important to enlist there services of an ASE licensed and trained automotive mechanic. They have the knowledge, equipment, resources, and experience to accurately diagnose issues and efficiently resolve them at the fairest price.

Suggested Automotive Services for Spring:

☑ 30/60/90/120K Mile Services

☑ Brake Pad and Rotor Service

☑ Fluid Flushes and Refills

☑ Transmission Services

☑ Computer Diagnostics

☑ Wiper Blade Replacement

☑ Filter Replacements

☑ Tire Rotation & Balancing

☑ Battery Service

☑ Bulbs, Hoses & Belts

☑ Minor Repairs

The Importance of Car Maintenance

You need to care for your car in the same way you care for your body; well, not the exact same way. Just like us, your car needs certain things to remain healthy and last a long time. For vehicles, this means brake service, filter changes, inspections, tire rotations, alignments, fluid changes, and more. Without these regular scheduled services, car’s quickly decline in performance, quality, and value. If you want to save the most on fuel and repair, stick with routine car care.

Trusted Car Maintenance in Indianapolis

ASE Certified Automotive Mechanics 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service 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. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.