Car Care Tips for New Car Owners

Posted on April 12, 2021 by autorepair

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

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.

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How to Jump Start a Car Battery
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Indianapolis Auto Mechanics 317-475-1846

FAQS About Factory Scheduled Car Maintenance

Posted on February 25, 2021 by autorepair

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.

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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!

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Why You Must Get Your Car Air Filters Changed This Year

Posted on January 12, 2021 by autorepair

Humans require clean, easy-to-breath air in order to live. And just like humans, vehicles also need to be able to “breathe” clean air in order to survive. While human lungs make it possible to breathe, a vehicle’s air filters do just the same. But after some time, air filters begin to accumulate mass amounts of dirt, debris, and other airborne particles, which eventually decreases their quality and function. For this reason, it is critical to have your vehicle’s engine and cabin air filters inspected and changed on a routine basis to promote safe and efficient driving.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of routine automotive filter changes and where to schedule your factory scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Repair 317-475-1846

Car Air Filters

Keep in mind that your car’s air filters are your first line of defense against irritating and obstructive airborne contaminants. But many drivers are guilty of overlooking this small but highly-necessary scheduled maintenance. Dirt, dust, pollen, mold spores, exhaust gases, bacteria, and more are examples of airborne contaminants that have the ability to negatively affect the quality and performance of your engine and vehicle as a whole.

The long list of airborne contaminants can have a powerful impact on your vehicle’s engine, and in a very negative way. Everything from pistons, cylinders, and cylinder walls, to piston rings and bearings, are just a few areas of a car engine that can begin to lose performance value from clogged or dirty air filters. Over time, neglecting to change air filters can lead to serious engine malfunctions and breakdowns, which means frustrating, costly repairs.

According to Community Car Care, there is a 1 in 5 chance that your car needs an air filter change right now! So, do it this year so your car runs great into 2022!

Cabin Air Filters

If you like to have clean, breathable interior air that smells good, you need to change your cabin air filters on a routine basis. Once cabin air filters start to become clogged, they begin to slowly lose their ability to do their job. So, once they are entirely clogged, you can suffer some mild but irritating consequences, such as musty smells, sore throat, coughing, itchy eyes, tightening of the chest, and more. Changing them regularly keeps the interior environment of your car fresh and easy to breath.

When to Put Air Filter Changes on Your Car Maintenance Schedule

Refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for the manufacturer recommendations on factory scheduled maintenance. The general rule of thumb is to have your air filters inspected and changed every time you take your car in for an oil change. In fact, it is often a part of oil change packages. This should be every 3,000 miles or so. Talk to your mechanic for professional advice.

Indianapolis Factory Scheduled Maintenance and Repair

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for factory scheduled maintenance and auto repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed and certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of foreign and domestic auto repair services, and specialize in major engine and transmission work. We also offer free estimates, automotive repair coupons, assistance with towing, and more. Request a free estimate, anytime.

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

When to Have Your Vehicle’s Suspension Serviced

Posted on October 28, 2020 by autorepair

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.

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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.

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4 Things You are Doing That is Damaging Your Car

Posted on September 11, 2020 by autorepair

There are so many actions car owners do simply out of habit when driving their vehicles. Actions such as putting on our seat belts after we sit down, checking the rear view mirror before backing up, or plugging in our music before taking off for the day. Similarly, there are several other things we do that are not as harmless as the rituals mentioned above. Many drivers are totally unaware that certain habits can actually damage their vehicles. Driving habits that you once thought were harmless are actually highly detrimental.

Continue reading to learn a few common habits that can cause serious, costly damage to your car, and see if you are guilty of a few of them yourself!

Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service 317-475-1846

The Parking Brake

The parking brake is one of the most neglected parts of an automatic transmission vehicle. Those who own manual cars or trucks often use their parking brake, but for several other drivers out there, this operation is often ignored, whether automatic or manual. This is a mistake that can jeopardize the integrity of your parking pawl and the transmission itself.

It can also result in your vehicle rolling downhill uncontrollably, after being parked on an incline. The parking brake puts a lock on the wheels and prevents it from rolling away. Failing to use a parking brake puts a lot of pressure on the car’s transmission; a part of the vehicle not meant to “hold” a car in place. It also strips the parking paw, as mentioned before. Always use the parking brake, but remember to release it before putting your car into drive again!

Switching Gears

Another common driving mistake is switching gears while the car is in motion. This often occurs when a driver backs up in reverse, and then switches their car into the drive-gear before it comes to a complete stop. This can strip the gears and bands within a vehicle’s transmission, which can be a costly repair. After a while, your vehicle may lose its ability to switch gears altogether because there is nothing there to provide the necessary tension it takes to thrust a vehicle into drive. Always come to a complete stop before switching gears. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions About Car Transmissions” to review related car care tips.

Air Conditioning

Many people start their cars the wrong way by leaving their AC on when they shut off the ignition from the last time they drove. But leaving the AC on when you turn your car off, or already having it on when you start your car, is bad for the serpentine belt and causes the engine to work harder than it has to. This can lead to costly repairs down the line. Talk to a mechanic to learn when you need auto air conditioner service.

Automotive Fluids

Failing to replace or change-out automotive fluids is another major mistake made by drivers and car owners alike. This can cause several issues and performance failures with a vehicle. Fluids like brake fluid, motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid are the most important lubricants and liquids for all vehicles. Have them flushed, filled, and replaced as suggested by the manufacturer. See our blog about important fluids every vehicle should maintain to learn more.

Odd Noises and Sounds

We are probably all guilty of ignoring funny noises and strange sounds coming from our vehicles, at some point in our driving careers. But this is bad to do, and can lead to very costly repairs and put a driver and their passengers in danger. It is not safe to drive a car that is not in good condition. Bad brakes, an overheating engine, and much more can cause serous car accidents and collisions. If your car’s brakes are squeaky, or your engine seems to hiss louder than usual, or you hear some other type of unfamiliar noise coming from your vehicle, take it in to a licensed Indianapolis auto mechanic right away.

⚠ Never ignore any problems your car, no matter how minor. Bring it into a licensed mechanic as soon as you suspect that something is off with your vehicle’s performance or quality.

ASE Certified Indianapolis Auto Repair and Service in Indianapolis

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.

Test Your Automotive Knowledge with this Quiz!

Posted on August 18, 2020 by autorepair

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!

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?

Windshield Wiper Fluid
Coolant
Motor Oil
Anti-Freeze

Question #2

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

Pistons
Catalytic Converter
Crank Case
Muffler

Question #3

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

Oil Change
Radiator Flush
Alignment
All of the Above

Question #4

For What Reason Could a Check Engine Light Be On?

Loose Gas Cap
Flat Tire
Broken Windshield Wiper
All of the Above

Question #5

What Do You Need to Flush a Radiator?

Funnel, Coolant Receptacle, and Cloth
Phillips Screw Driver
Radiator Flush and Anti-Freeze
All of the Above

Question #6

What Do You Need to Startup a Dead Car Battery?

Wrench
Jumper-Cables
Screw Driver
Battery Fluid

Question #7

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

Engine
Fuel Tank
Suspension
Power Steering

Question #8

Which Fluid Do You Require to Control Engine Temperatures?

Brake Fluid
Motor Oil
Water
Coolant

Question #9

Which Automotive Part Dims the Noise Produced by an Engine?

Muffler
Exhaust
Transmission
Ignition

Question #10

What Does an Odometer Measure?

Distance
Speed
Fuel Level
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

When Should I Change the Oil in My Vehicle?

Posted on July 27, 2020 by autorepair

All vehicles and other engine-operated machines need oil changes on a regular interval. An engine is like the heart of a car and that heart must remain functional at all times. Oil lubricates the inner components of a vehicle’s engine and promotes smoother operation and functioning. If this oil runs dry or becomes too dirty, it can cause a car engine to overheat, and eventually begin to deteriorate and fail altogether. Oil is a mandatory must-have for all vehicles, and must be changed regularly for a car to function properly.

Continue reading to learn when you should change the oil in your vehicle, and who to trust for professional oil change advice and service.

Indianapolis Oil Changes and Car Maintenance 317-475-1846

Facts About Changing the Oil in a Car

It is best to refer to your car’s manual for oil change scheduling advice and recommendations. If you do not have your car’s manual, simply contact the manufacturer, and ask for the information you need. Oil changes are meant to be changed on a regular basis, depending on the amount of driving you do, and the style of driving you use. Typically, car manufacturers recommend changing a standard automobile’s oil every three thousand miles, or every three months, or whichever comes first. For cars that are not driven as much, oil changes can be facilitated more sparingly, such as every 5,000 miles or every six to eight months.

Not only can the amount of driving indicate when to have your oil changed, the style of driving you use can also affect this schedule. For instance, a person that drives fast and abruptly on a regular basis, or gets stuck in frequent stop-and-go traffic, may need to have their oil changed more frequently than a person that only drives to church on Sundays. Give your driving details to a professional, and they can easily determine and suggest when you should change your car’s oil.

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.

Where to Get Affordable Oil Changes and Car Maintenance in Indianapolis

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable oil changes and scheduled car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed mechanics 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.

Collective Car Care Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

Posted on June 24, 2020 by autorepair

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.

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.

How to Wash Your Car Using the Rain

Posted on June 9, 2020 by autorepair

Did you know that a clean vehicle is a happy vehicle? Okay, so our cars don’t actually have feelings, but it can be argued that a clean car has better drive-ability and aerodynamics. Also, 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 has a devastating effect on a vehicle’s overall value. On the flip side, washing your car too often can be viewed as a monumental waste of water. So, how do you find the happy medium? By using nature to wash and rinse your car instead!

Continue reading to learn how to wash your car naturally using nothing but environmentally-friendly cleanser and rainwater.

The Clean Facts About Rainwater

Rainwater contains a load of healthy elements. In fact, it has always been rumored that rainwater does wonders for your hair! So, it should do the same for a car; right? But can rainwater really wash a vehicle? Well yes! The force and consistency of a rainstorm produces enough precipitation and pressure to remove caked-up pollen, tree sap, dead bugs, dirt, and other common exterior residues. So, once you have removed the heavy grime from the exterior of your vehicle, a good rainstorm every so often is all you need! But to remove heavier grime, you will need to take a few steps before the rain comes.

How to Do It

Choose a non-toxic, eco-friendly mild dish soap to use for car washing purposes. This type of cleanser is safe for the environment, as well as, yourself and your vehicle. You can find an organic, non-toxic dish cleaner at any local grocery or home improvement store for a fair price. Consider Method® dish soap – 18 oz. – $3.

Don a bathing suit or some other type of outfit you don’t mind getting wet and possible soapy. Apply several drops of your liquid soap to a large, soggy sponge. Then simply scrub away, all over your vehicle, including your tires and wheels. Then just sit back and wait for the rain to rinse it all clean!

Affordable Indianapolis Auto Service You Can Trust

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

Do I Have to Take My Foreign Vehicle to the Dealership for Auto Service?

Posted on May 28, 2020 by autorepair

When it comes to foreign cars, scheduled maintenance and repair is an important factor in the longevity and overall performance of the vehicle. For this reason, import car owners are motivated to stay on top of vehicle care and preventative maintenance. They take their vehicle’s factory scheduled maintenance agenda seriously, and never hesitate to call the mechanic when something feels a little off. Catching small problems early on is a cost-effective way to maintain a vehicle and avoid expensive repairs and replacements.

But as a foreign car owner, you may wonder if you are obligated to take your vehicle into the dealership for all repairs and services, or if you can use a trusted, independently-owned auto repair shop instead. This question is both understandable and important. Of course, we want the best for our vehicles, but that doesn’t mean we have to spend a ridiculous amount of money doing it.

Continue reading to learn whether or not your foreign car should be go to the dealership for service and repair.

Dealership vs. Auto Repair Shop

It is important to ask questions about your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and service needs. Not only does this save you money in the long run, it increases the life or your car or truck. As for dealerships, the cost of maintenance and repair is inflated, since they have larger overhead costs and more staff to pay. For this reason, it makes more sense to take your vehicle to a locally owned and operated auto repair shop for foreign car maintenance and repair.

But you may be asking if your vehicle’s warranty is still good at these places, or only at the dealership. Here is what you need to know: There are laws that require the factory to honor all vehicular warranties so long as all the proper documentation is retained showing that all the scheduled maintenance is being performed on time.

So, you can save time and money by taking your foreign car or truck to a local mechanic rather than a dealership. Just be sure to save all of your receipts and documents pertaining to all work completed on your vehicle, and have the mechanic sign your maintenance schedule book if your vehicle comes with one. Be sure to choose an Indianapolis auto repair shop that is licensed, experienced, and has a good reputation.