How to Jump Start a Car Battery

Posted on August 22, 2015 by autorepair

Automotive batteries are not meant to last forever; in fact, they are designed to only last three to five years before needing replaced. Even with proper maintenance, there are several circumstances that can lead to a drained car battery. This is why a dead battery is one of the leading causes of vehicular breakdowns each year. For this reason, it is wise for drivers to learn how to jump start a dead car battery in the case that it happens to them or a fellow driver. Continue reading for a step by step guide for jump starting a dead car battery, and who to call for professional car battery replacement services near you!

Dead Car Battery

There are several reasons why a car battery can drain its charge. Exposure to extreme heat or cold, leaving the interior or exterior lights on for an extended period of time, and simply not driving a vehicle for a while are just a few examples of how to drain a car battery. For whatever reason your car battery dies (unless it’s old), you can jump start it back up with a set of jumper cables and another running vehicle. You can purchase jumper cables at any local hardware store or automotive store for a low price. Some emergency roadside kits come with jumper cables as well, so these products are highly recommended to buy. Just be sure to keep the jumper cables and roadside kit in your trunk at all times in case you ever need them.

Getting Set Up

Once you are ready to jump start your dead car battery, have the other driver pull their vehicle closer to your car, engine to engine. This can be done side to side, or head to head. Just be sure the jumper cables can reach both car batteries. Now you are ready to connect the cables. Before you start, be aware that clamping jumper cables in the wrong location can damage certain electrical components. Because of this, you MUST read the owners’ manual and know exactly what you are doing before you get started. Also, never touch the two ends of the jumper cables together when one end is connected to a running vehicle. This can cause painful electrocutions and shocks.

Jump Starting a Car Battery:

1. Turn OFF both vehicles.

2. Identify the Positive (+) and Negative (-) sides of each vehicle’s battery. These are where the jumper cables will connect with clamps. Positive is usually red and negative is usually black.

3. Start at the charged battery and connect the RED clamp/cable to the Positive (+) side of the battery.

4. Now connect the other red clamp to the positive side of the dead battery.

5. While at the dead battery, connect the black clamp to the Negative (-) side of it.

6. Now connect the other black clamp to the Negative (-) side of the good car battery.

7. Double check that the clamps and cables are nowhere near any moving engine parts.

8. Turn ON the running vehicle with the good battery.

9. Wait one minute then turn on the other vehicle. If the battery is charged, the vehicle will turn on. Depending on how drained it is, some car batteries will need to stay connected to a running vehicle for 5 minutes or more.

10. Disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order to how they were connected from the start. Black cables then red cables, good battery then recharged battery.

Northeast Auto Service

Factory Scheduled Maintenance Indianapolis IN

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

If you need car battery replacement in Indianapolis, call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 today. We are ASE licensed mechanics with decades of experience and training in the automotive service industry. We service and repair all make and model vehicles at the most competitive prices in town. We also offer auto repair coupons and discounts. Call 317-475-1846 for factory scheduled maintenance and battery replacement services in Indianapolis, IN today.

Does Factory Scheduled Maintenance for Cars and Trucks Differ?

Posted on June 11, 2015 by autorepair

Although there are a few notable differences between truck maintenance and car maintenance, they are relatively the same. Any motor vehicle requires the same degree of basic maintenance in order to keep the engine running, reduce repair costs, and uphold safe driving conditions. Always refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for recommended maintenance schedules. This will give you the information you need to set-up a proper schedule for your particular car or truck.

Don’t stop at manuals if you really want factory scheduled maintenance information. Utilize books, the internet, and even local car mechanics for additional advice and information regarding car and truck maintenance. Continue reading to learn more about the difference between car and truck maintenance schedules, and who to call for automotive service advice you can trust.

Car and Truck Maintenance

There are seven essential fluids every vehicle needs to operate safely, effectively, and dependably. This includes motor oil, coolant, and fluids like windshield wiper, brake, transmission, power steering, and battery fluid. The difference in fluid maintenance between a car and truck is frequency, as well as, the type of oil used. A car will only require fluid checks and changes every three to six months, where a truck will require them more often since they are larger and drive on rugged terrains. Trucks are usually driven at tougher levels for work and labor purposes, so their fluid gets hotter and burns faster than cars. This means they might also need heavy-duty motor oils and more.

Another difference involves filters. Oil filters and air filters protect the engine by catching grease, dirt, debris, and more; so they need swapped out every 10,000 miles or so if you drive a car. As for trucks, these filters collect even more dirt, grease, and debris, which means they need to be replaced on a more frequent basis. This is especially important for trucks that drive on rough terrain or off-road regularly.

Since trucks are larger and heavier, and usually carry cargo, they require proper tire inflation. This ensures even weight distribution and allows trucks to better navigate rough terrain like construction sites, gravel, dirt, and more.

Northeast Auto Service

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for car and truck maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE licensed mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive service and repair industry. Our highly trained technicians provide repairs, services, maintenance, and more for all make and model vehicles. We offer auto repair coupons, as well as, the most competitive prices in town. Call 317-475-1846 for professional automotive repair service in Indianapolis, IN today.

Recommended Car Maintenance Schedule

Posted on April 24, 2015 by autorepair

Most vehicles are manufactured and designed to have a lifespan of at least ten to fifteen years. But this doesn’t happen without a little effort and initiative. Routine car maintenance is imperative for optimal vehicular performance and longevity. You cannot expect your car or truck to stand the test of time without regular scheduled vehicular maintenance and care. Fluids, tires, auto parts, and more all require specific services within a particular time schedule.

The first place to look for your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule is the owners’ manual. You can find all the information you need about factory scheduled maintenance and troubleshooting problems for your vehicle. Continue reading to grasp a general idea of which factory scheduled maintenance services your vehicle needs, and when you should be outsourcing those services to better protect your asset.

3,000 Miles

Indianapolis Oil Change Coupons 317-475-1846

In order to keep your engine in optimal condition, the motor oil needs refilled on a regular basis, and the oil filters need replaced at the same time. Since your car engine is one of the most expensive and valuable components in your vehicle, it is in your best interest to change the oil and oil filter in order to avoid engine problems and costly repairs.

It is also important to replace the spark plug after changing your motor oil, and refill the coolant as well. These tasks should be done every three thousand miles or every three months, whichever comes first. This is just a general rule and should be adjusted according to the amount and type of driving you do.

7,000 Miles

Once you have reached seven thousand miles, or around 6 or 7 months, you need to have your tires serviced. This involves a tire rotation, balancing, break pad replacements (if needed), brake rotor inspections and replacements (if needed), and even tire replacement, if needed. Another maintenance task that should be done at the 7,000 mile interval is battery replacement. Your car battery may need recharging, servicing, upgrading, or even replacing at this point of the year.

Annually

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

One time per year, your vehicle should be inspected all over, like a check-up. This is because at this point, it will need a few services. First, the transmission fluid needs flushed and refilled, and the actual transmission should be examined for leaks. Next, your vehicle will need a few filters replaced, like the air filter and the carbon canister filter. At this point, it is probably time to have your brakes re-serviced or inspected too.

30,000 Miles

Every 30,000 miles, or two years, your vehicle needs a bit more attention. It needs all the above services already mentioned, in combination with several more. This includes an auto tune-up, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, brake rotor replacement, transfer case fluid replacement, wire and distribution cap replacement, and much more. At this point, it is best to have a licensed mechanic undertake all of these factory scheduled maintenance tasks for liable and professional results.

60,000 Miles

After four or five years, your vehicle will probably have a few parts that need repaired or replaced. Be sure to have any defective auto parts repaired right away to avoid more costly repairs down the road. And be sure to keep up with all the other regular scheduled maintenance tasks your vehicle requires.

Northeast Auto Service

Auto Repair Coupons Indianapolis IN 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for affordable car maintenance and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed car mechanics with decades of experience in the automotive service industry. We offer a wide range of auto repair services for all make and model vehicles. Call 317-475-1846 for information about our Indianapolis factory scheduled maintenance prices and current specials, today.

Important Fluids Every Vehicle Should Maintain

Posted on July 4, 2014 by autorepair

In order for a car or truck to perform and operate properly, it is vital for their fluid levels to be healthy and constant. There are at least 7 different types of fluids and solutions that every vehicle should always have; and they need these fluids to promote longevity and safety for the driver. These fluids play a major role in the operation of several vehicular systems; including the engine, brakes, transmission, and more. If the fluids reach their minimum levels, or dry out completely, trouble is in close proximity. Without these essential car fluids, a vehicle doesn’t stand a chance on the road. Continue reading to learn about the important fluids vehicles need to thrive and perform on a daily basis.

Motor Oil

Motor oil is one of the most important fluid for any vehicle. When a vehicle is being driven, the engine produces a mass amount of heat and friction. Oil keeps the moving components within a crankcase, lubricated at all times. This lubrication reduces friction and high heat; which can damage pistons, valves, and more. Motor oil needs flushed and changed-out on an annual basis, or more, depending on the age and condition of the vehicle, and how much it is driven. The normal time-frame is every 5,000 or six months.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is the most important solution for vehicles; especially in terms of safety. Without brake fluid, driving a car can be a death wish. We must be able to stop a vehicle once it is in motion. If a car cannot properly brake, this could mean serious injury to pedestrians, other drivers, or the driver themselves. Not only can a lack of brake fluid be dangerous to people, it can also quickly deteriorate a vehicle’s brake system. Brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, and more are all affected by poor brake fluid maintenance. This should be done by a licensed mechanic every few thousand miles, or 6 months.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is that red solution used to lubricate the inner-working parts of a transmission; just like motor oil for an engine. It simply cools and lubricates the moving parts, and reduces high heat and friction. Again, this fluid should be inspected and changed out by a licensed Indianapolis Automotive Repair specialist every 5,000 miles or 6 months.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Windshield wiper fluid is common and not vital for a vehicle to operate efficiently; however, it is crucial for driver safety. It is a cleansing liquid that is squirted out from the outer-dash, directly onto the windshield. The wipers automatically initiate and smear and clear the liquid away, leaving behind a lucid window for drivers. During snowing and wet seasons, this fluid is extremely helpful and can mean the difference between an accident and a close-encounter. If you get dredged with dirty water and snow by a semi-truck on the highway, you better hope you have windshield wiper fluid to immediately clear your view at 60 miles per hour! Fortunately, this can be administered by the car owner themselves and it is quite easy to do!

Antifreeze/Coolant

Antifreeze, or coolant, is another fluid that prevents an internal combustion engine from overheating while on the road. Coolant is commonly a 50/50 combination of water and radiator coolant. In colder climates, this ratio is stronger on the coolant side, and visa-verse. Antifreeze is just that; a heat transfer liquid. It prevents an overheating vehicle by cycling through the engine and absorbing heat; and then returning the heat to the radiator, and out into the air. If a vehicle does not retain proper coolant levels, it will quickly overheat and be inoperable. This is another fluid that can be administered by the vehicle owner.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is necessary for smooth and easy steering. It is pressurized by a small hydraulic pump that is powered by the car engine. It aids the steering mechanism that directs the tires. Without power steering fluid, turning the wheel can seem like pulling a 50 pound weight! Older model vehicles do not even come with power steering capabilities. If your vehicle has power steering, then it will require routine power steering fluid refills and replacements.

Factory Scheduled Maintenance in Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis Oil Change Coupons 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional factory scheduled maintenance services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highly trained and ASE licensed mechanics with more than three decades of experience in the automotive service industry. We repair and service all make and model vehicles at the most competitive rates in town. In fact, we offer auto repair coupons and discounts for those who qualify! Call 317-475-1846 and receive a free estimate for routine maintenance and auto repair in Indianapolis, IN and its nearby neighborhoods.

Do I Need to Rotate Balance My Tires Every Year?

Posted on March 25, 2014 by autorepair

Your car is a very important asset. Just like any working mechanism, and requires regular maintenance, care, and attention. If you fail to give your car or truck the proper factory scheduled maintenance that it requires, or that’s stated in the owner’s manual, you will notice a decrease in performance and other problems too.

If you speak with a professional automotive technician about proper tire care, he will tell you all about the importance of rotating and balancing your tires routinely. There’s more to tire care than rotation and balancing services; however, the simplest factory scheduled maintenance starts tire rotation and balancing.

It’s not recommended to do this on your own. It is highly dangerous and you could injure yourself and damage your vehicle beyond repair. Instead, always take your vehicle to a trusted automotive repair company work body shop for proper factory scheduled maintenance services. Be sure to do your research and choose an automotive repair shop that provides the services you require, as well as, retains the credentials that prove they are an accomplished and reputable company. Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for more information tire rotation and balancing services.

When it comes to tire rotation accounting services, their only a few steps that are required; however, this service still needs to be done by a licensed and experience automotive mechanic. Body shops and automotive technicians retain the proper equipment, tools, and training that allow them to facilitate any automotive service on all make and model vehicles. When we talk about tire rotation, we are referring to removing the tires and rotating them to a separate position on a vehicle; not the rotation of the tire around the axle. Tire rotation should be done on an annual basis, typically when you go to get your scheduled oil change. This allows the tread on each tire to wear down evenly, allowing better traction control and drive-ability. This is important because it provides a safer drive and increases the lifespan of your tires.

Indianapolis Oil Change Coupons 317-475-1846

For more information about tire rotation balancing, contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 today. We are highly trained and licensed mechanics with more than 20 years of experience in the automotive service industry. We are family owned and operated, specializing in major engine work and more. We work on foreign and domestic vehicles of all make and models. Visit our website today https://www.autorepairindy.com/factory-schduled-maintenance-indianapolis.php for more information about our services and company background. Get your tires rotate balance today in Indianapolis at a price you can afford. We offer free estimates, car repair coupons, and several additional automotive repair services. We are friendly and honest, and happy to answer any questions for free anytime. Call 317-475-1846 and learn more about factory scheduled maintenance services in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

Important Factory Schedule Maintenance Services for Cars, Trucks, and Other Vehicles

Posted on October 2, 2013 by autorepair

Owning an automobile is a big responsibility. Vehicles require care and upkeep, just as us humans do! There are various factory scheduled maintenance services that automotive companies recommend in order to sustain and benefit a vehicle’s performance value and longevity. The most common routine maintenance services include oil changes, filter changes, tire rotations and balances, engine flushes, radiator flushes, fluid refills, and more.

All regular scheduled maintenance services are vital for the well-being and dependability of any vehicle; however, without a few of the key services mentioned above, a car simply won’t run at all. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more important factory scheduled maintenance services that support optimal vehicle performance and sustainability in the long run.

Oil Changes

Although one of the most ordinary and unassuming of all the required vehicle maintenance, oil changes are one of the most important services a person can provide for their ride. Changing the engine oil and filter is vital when it comes to maintaining a functioning vehicle. Without motor oil and a clean filter, a car engine will overheat, eventually melting and destroying the inner workings of an engine. This can lead to very costly repairs.

Even if they are mundane, oil changes are absolutely necessary if you wish to keep your vehicle out of the repair shop or scrap yard. They should be performed at least every five thousand miles; whether that number is reached within one month or ten.

Vehicle Fluid Changes

Fluids such as transmission fluid, coolant, power steering, and even windshield wiper fluid are all vital components that require regular refills in most vehicles. Again, the schedule for these services differ from vehicle to vehicle; however, they are typically inspected, changed, or re-filled every six months or 5,000 miles, whichever of the two comes first.

Tires and Brakes

One of the most important safety features of a vehicle is its ability to stop. The routine maintenance services that protect this crucial capability surround the tires and brakes. Tire rotations and balances are important services that keep your tire functional in all weather conditions and elements. Refilling or changing the brake fluid and brake pads, and checking the over-all condition of the brakes, are also necessary services that all vehicles require in order to support safe driving on the road.

These services need to be outsourced every 8 to 30 thousand miles, depending on the year, make, and model vehicle. It is best to consult a professional automotive technician or vehicle manufacturer for routine maintenance specifications and schedules. This information can also be found in the owner’s portfolio that came with the car, or the manufacturer booklet in the glove compartment of new cars.

Routine Scheduled Maintenance Services in Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis Oil Change Coupons 317-475-1846

For professional advice and information about your vehicle’s required factory scheduled maintenance, call our licensed mechanics at 317-475-1846 today. We are happy to discuss your vehicle’s service requirements, no matter who does your automotive services. Visit our website at https://www.autorepairindy.com/factory-schduled-maintenance-indianapolis.php for details about routine service schedules and our company credentials. We are expert automotive mechanics that specialize in all foreign and domestic automotive services and repairs. Call us today for licensed factory scheduled automotive maintenance in Indianapolis, IN and its neighboring counties.

How to Improve Gas Mileage

Posted on April 22, 2013 by autorepair

The gas prices are skyrocketing and our patience for spending our hard earned cash on fuel is running thin. Unfortunately there is nothing we can do as car owners to lower the price of gasoline these days; however there is something we can do to increase the mileage we get from every tank of gas. Continue reading to learn how to improve gas mileage and start saving money today!

Stay on Track with Regular Scheduled Maintenance and Service

With a busy life, it can be hard to remember when to service and maintenance your vehicles on schedule. Also, with so many fixed costs people face these days, it can be out of someone’s budget to get their car serviced routinely. Although there are obstacles that can easily sidetrack us when it comes to vehicle care, it is important to try harder and make sacrifices for the betterment of your car and your safety. By getting regular oil changes, engine cleanings, inspections, tire rotations, and more, you can greatly increase your gas mileage almost immediately!

Drive Efficiently

Another effective way to increase your gas mileage, and save the fuel you buy, is to drive more efficiently. This means no revving of the car engine to impress pedestrians and other drivers on the road, no abrupt starting and stopping of the vehicle, no erratic driving patterns, and reduce the amount of speeding. All these combined will increase your gas mileage by burning less fuel per mile.

For details about how to reduce the amount of fuel you use up per week, call Northeast Auto Repair in Indianapolis, IN or visit our webpage at https://www.autorepairindy.com/factory-schduled-maintenance-indianapolis.php anytime. Talk to one of our highly trained and experienced auto mechanics about gas mileage in your vehicle. They are happy to answer any questions you have about anything; from when to replace your car brakes, to regular scheduled maintenance. Call 317-475-1846 for a free estimate or information about factory scheduled car maintenance and more in Indianapolis, IN.

When to Get an Oil Change

Posted on October 31, 2012 by autorepair

Regular scheduled maintenance is a must for any car owner. This includes brake inspections, filter replacements, tire rotations, and more. They are all part of the cycle to keeping your car in mint condition. Above all, one of the most important, and frequently neglected, requirements is oil changes. Oil changes are crucial to maintaining a well-functioning vehicle. Read on to learn how often you should be changing your oil in your ride of choice!

Oil Change Cycles Vary

There are many factors that contribute to the frequency of oil changes. It really differs from person to person, and even from vehicle to vehicle. Many people generally suggest changing your oil every 3,000 miles, or every three months; while others recommend changing oil between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. These are general estimations and can vary greatly depending on the lifestyle and driving style you live by.

As far as vehicles go, the type of fuel designed for your car can influence the amount of recommended miles driven between oil changes. If your car runs off of gas, then most likely your car’s manufacturer has already suggested a mileage for oil changes. You would just need to refer to the car’s manual. If your car didn’t come with a manual, you can look up the make and model online, and refer to the oil change requirements there. For trucks that burn diesel fuel, the same instructions would apply.

Driving Record

If you are a person that drives your personal vehicle around for work, then you may need to get oil changes on the more frequent spectrum, rather than a six month marker. If you drive fast and abruptly, you will need to get an oil change around 3,000 miles rather than 6,000.

Regardless of what type of vehicle you drive, or the type of driver you are, you should never go more than six months before replacing the oil in your car. Neglecting to change the oil in your car will cause expensive and inconvenient repairs and breakdowns, as well as, reduced performance value.

For more information about oil changes and changing your oil in Indianapolis, IN, call North East Auto today! We are ASE certified mechanics with over three decades of experience in the auto repair and service industry. We are the experts to rely on for auto repair, maintenance, oil changes, free estimates, DIY advice, and more! Call us at 317-475-1846 and speak with a professional auto repair technician about factory scheduled maintenance in Indianapolis, IN.