How to Choose an Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust

Posted on February 13, 2023 by autorepair

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.

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.

10 Essential Tips for Winter Car Maintenance

Posted on December 30, 2022 by autorepair

Winter can be tough on your car, and if you’re not prepared for the cold weather and icy roads, it could end up costing you a lot of money. But with some basic winter car maintenance tips, you can keep your car running smoothly all season long. From changing your oil to checking tire pressure, here are 10 essential tips that will help keep your vehicle in top shape during the colder months.

By following these simple steps every few weeks or so throughout the winter season, you can ensure that your car is ready to take on whatever Mother Nature throws at it!

For Winter Car Maintenance in Indianapolis, Call 317-475-1846 Today!

Top 10 Tips for Winter Car Care

1. Change Your Oil: It’s important to maintain consistent oil changes throughout the year, but especially during winter. The cold temperatures can cause your engine oil to thicken, which can make it harder for it to flow and do its job of keeping your car running smoothly. Make sure you keep up with regular oil changes and check your oil levels often.

2. Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can cause air pressure to decrease in your tires, making them more susceptible to wear and tear. Make sure you check your tire pressure regularly and fill it up if necessary so you don’t end up with flat tires or worse – a blowout!

3. Replace Wiper Blades: The snow, ice and salt on the roads in winter can lead to a buildup of grime and dirt on your car’s windshield. This can make it harder for you to see when driving, so be sure to replace your wiper blades with ones designed specifically for winter weather.

4. Keep Your Battery Charged: Cold temperatures can also cause car batteries to lose charge, so be sure to check it often and keep your battery charged.

5. Add Antifreeze: Make sure you add antifreeze to your car’s radiator regularly to help keep the engine from freezing during colder weather.

6. Check Brakes: Winter roads can be slick and icy, so it’s essential that you check your car’s brakes regularly to make sure they are in good working order.

7. Check Tire Tread: Replacing worn-out tires is important all year round, but particularly during winter when the roads may be slicker than usual. Make sure to check your tire tread every few weeks or so and replace them as needed.

8. Clean Undercarriage: Snow, ice, salt and dirt can build up on the undercarriage of your car during winter. This can cause rust and corrosion over time, so it’s important to clean underneath your car regularly to prevent damage.

9. Check Lights and Signals: Driving in winter can be especially difficult if you’re not able to see the road clearly or signal when necessary. Make sure your headlights, brake lights and turn signals are all working properly before hitting the roads this season.

10. Test Your Heater: A functioning heater is essential during winter, so make sure to check it before the weather turns too cold. It’s also a good idea to bring a car blanket in case your car’s heater isn’t working properly.

Trust Your Local Indianapolis Mechanic For Car Maintenance This Winter

By following these essential tips for winter car maintenance, you can help protect yourself and your car this season. And if you encounter any car problems, make sure to contact a qualified Indianapolis auto mechanic right away. Taking these extra steps now will keep your car running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Are you ready to book your winter automotive service with a dependable Indianapolis 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!

Is Differential Fluid Different From Transmission Fluid?

Posted on November 4, 2022 by autorepair

Differential fluid and transmission fluid may seem similar, but they actually serve different purposes. Differential fluid helps to lubricate the gears in your car, while transmission fluid helps to cool and protect the transmission components. Transmission fluid should be checked regularly to ensure that it is at the correct level and condition. Differential fluid does not need to be checked as often, but it is important to check it periodically to make sure that it is clean and at the correct level.

Continue reading to learn details about these differences and more.

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A Comparison of Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Differential fluid is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s differential. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving fuel efficiency. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is a type of oil that helps to lubricate the gears in your car’s transmission. This helps to prevent wear and tear on the gears, as well as reducing noise and improving shift quality. So, what’s the difference between these two types of fluids?

Differential fluid is thicker than transmission fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your differential. This can help to prolong the life of your differential and improve its performance. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is thinner than differential fluid, which means that it can provide better lubrication for the gears in your transmission. This can help to prolong the life of your transmission and improve its performance.

Differential fluid is also designed to withstand higher temperatures than transmission fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your differential from heat damage. Transmission fluid, on the other hand, is designed to withstand lower temperatures than differential fluid. This means that it can better protect the gears in your transmission from cold damage.

You Can Benefit From Both Fluids

So, which type of fluid is right for you? If you’re looking for the best possible performance and protection for your car, then you should use differential fluid in your differential and transmission fluid in your transmission. However, if you’re looking for the best possible value, then you should use transmission fluid in both your differential and transmission. Whichever type of fluid you choose, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

Choose Professional Auto Service

Regularly scheduled car maintenance is important to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolonging the life of your car. While you may be tempted to save a little money and do the work yourself, it’s important to take the advice of your Indianapolis mechanic when it comes to routine car maintenance. They have the experience and knowledge to keep your car in good condition, and they can also help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. Neglecting factory scheduled car maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and let the professionals take care of things.

Are you looking for a qualified and affordable Indianapolis auto repair shop that won’t charge unfair rates for car repair or maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

How to Save Gas Money By Taking Better Care of Your Car

Posted on September 19, 2022 by autorepair

With most good things, there is a catch. If you want to lose weight, you have to give up sugar. If you want to save money, you have to rent the smaller apartment. But when it comes to fuel savings, you may have found the exception to the rule! Because believe it or not, there is a way to save your gasoline and reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing an ounce of drive-time! You don’t have to limit your driving by driving less altogether just to save on gas.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to save fuel without restricting the amount of time or distances you drive.

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Factory Scheduled Maintenance is Vital

The simple trick to using less gas is not to drive less, but to drive smarter. And a smart driver (YOU) makes sure they are staying current with all their factory scheduled vehicle maintenance. This includes fluid changes like motor oil, coolant, windshield wiper, and power steering. But also includes services like tire balancing and rotation, brake pad inspections and replacements, cabin filter replacements, air filter replacements, comprehensive inspections, and more.

Aside from what your trusted mechanic can provide for your vehicle in terms of routine maintenance, there are many things you can do yourself to keep your ride in tip-top condition, allowing it to utilize fuel efficiently and perform for years to come.

Best Practices for Driving and Car Care

Take initiative into your own hands with do-it-yourself (DIY) car care. There are many things you can do on your own to continue vehicle maintenance in between regular scheduled mechanic visits. You can start by making sure your tires are always properly inflated. When they are not, your vehicle must work harder to assume the same level of performance, which uses more fuel. Also, be sure to periodically inspect the gas cap for damages. This can cause fuel to vaporize into the air.

Another way to use your fuel efficiently is to obey the speed limit and accelerate slowly. This also protects several components of your vehicle, allowing optimal performance and safety. Last, try emptying the trunk and backseat of unneeded materials. This can reduce the overall weight of your car, thus reducing the amount of gas it needs to operate.

Although there is no magical way to truly “drive more and use less”, with routine car care you can optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy, which essentially delivers the same financial gratification. Talk to your trusted automotive service technician about your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. You may refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for additional information as well.

Does your car or truck need some routine auto service or a repair? Contact us at 317-475-1846 for the most affordable and reliable auto repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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How to Make Your Car Last Longer For Cheaper

Posted on August 11, 2022 by autorepair

Everyone needs their car. Your car plays a vital role in maintaining your livelihood. Whether you use your car to get to and from work, go back and forth from school, or shuttle around your family to all of their schooling obligations and activities, your vehicle is very important. In the best interest of your financial future, it would be wisest to do all that you can to make your vehicle last as long as possible. Fortunately, there is a very budget-friendly way to do this.

Continue reading to learn how to make your car less longer for cheaper, plus where you can get dependable and affordable automotive service and repair in Indianapolis.

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The Cheapest Way to Increase the Life of Your Car or Truck

Stay Current on Factory Scheduled Maintenance

When you want to make your vehicle last as long as it possibly can, your first step is to read the owner’s manual. Your particular make and model vehicle will have a specific factory maintenance plan recommended within its manual. Follow the instructions for factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, ensuring that you stay on top of it throughout the year, every year. When you keep up with car maintenance, you will experience fewer breakdowns and mechanical issues, which also saves you money on expensive automotive repairs and parts replacements.

Regularly Check Fluid Levels

Your vehicle requires certain automotive fluids at all times for optimal performance, safety, and you guessed it, longevity. This includes motor oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. To make a vehicle last as long as it is designed to last, it is important to ensure that your fluid levels are adequate at all times by regularly checking them. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to inspect and refill each fluid. In most cars, dashboard lights will appear if a fluid is low or empty.

Be Consistent With Oil Changes

As mentioned, it is important to regularly check your automotive fluid levels. Your motor oil is one of the most important automotive fluids because it lubricates the grinding, heat-generating internal mechanical components within your engine. Above all other vital automotive fluids, it is important to be consistent with the oil changes the most. Ask your mechanic how often you should get an oil change for your car.

Stay Alert to Strange Sounds or Movements

It is always important to be on the lookout for strange sounds, vibrations, shaking, or movements when starting or driving your vehicle. Such changes in your vehicle’s performance are indicators of an underlying problem. Your Indianapolis mechanic will be able to diagnose your vehicles issues through your description of its irregular performance. It is also good idea to stay alert to strange car smells, like burning rubber, gasoline, or a sweet syrupy scent.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Automotive Maintenance 101 for Trucks

Posted on March 30, 2022 by autorepair

Maintenance services are intended to keep a vehicle’s motor in optimal condition and prevent future costly breakdowns and repairs. They are quite necessary, whether you have a car or a truck. If you are new to owning both a car and a truck, you will start to notice a slight difference in their maintenance needs. A truck’s maintenance schedule and requirements differ from that of a standard two or four-door vehicle. But overall, both types of vehicles require pretty much the same services.

The owners’ manual gives detailed instructions regarding your make and model’s factory scheduled maintenance needs and agenda. If you do not have this manual for your vehicle, you can most likely download a copy online, or consult an auto mechanic for professional advice.

Continue reading to learn the recommended car maintenance schedule for trucks, plus where to get dealership-level auto repair and service at a fraction of the cost in Indianapolis.

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The Fundamentals of Routine Truck Maintenance

Fluid Refills

All motor vehicles, whether truck, car, or SUV, requires a certain level and array of fluids to operate effectively and safely. These fluids include motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper solution, power steering fluid, and battery fluid. But cars and trucks are used for different purposes, and they drive differently. A car only holds up to five passengers and drives mostly on smooth roads; whereas a truck is likely to carry loads, haul items, and drive on rougher terrains. This type of driving causes the fluids to run hotter and get used up quicker. For this reason, trucks will require more frequent fluid changes than a standard car.

Lube and Oil

On the topic of fluids, trucks also require routine lubrication of their ball joints and U-joints. These areas also need to be inspected regularly for damages or defects. For manual trucks, it is important to also check on the clutch reservoir fluid to make sure it is at a good level.

Vehicles need air and oil filters to keep the motor clean of solid debris. Otherwise, the debris would enter the motor and grind between moving parts, causing engine damage. For trucks that are used in construction or other rugged outdoor sites, it is likely that the air and oil filters are accumulating more debris at a faster rate. This means trucks used under these conditions will require more frequent filter changes than cars. Fortunately, filters are cheap and easy to change.

Tire Inflation

Lastly, trucks require more frequent tire inflation. Tire inflation is important, and necessary, for trucks because they carry cargo. Tires should be evenly and properly inflated to safely haul cargoes. If tires are not adequately inflated, tire blow outs can occur, causing truck accidents and collisions.

Are you looking for a skilled automotive mechanic who can get your truck in and out of the shop, fast? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled truck maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Check These Five Automotive Fluids Regularly

Posted on February 28, 2022 by autorepair

Winter is still going strong, but the time of year makes no difference when it comes to car maintenance. There are many tasks to stay on top of if you wish to keep your vehicle in optimal condition, year-round. Checking on your automotive fluid levels is one of these vital car maintenance priorities.

Continue reading to learn the 5 car fluids you should check on regularly, plus where to take your vehicle for dealership-level car maintenance at neighborhood prices in Indianapolis.

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Important Car Fluids

The total number of fluids in a vehicle really depends on the type, make, and model. However, virtually all automobiles require 7 to 8 design-specific fluids for optimal performance and longevity. These include fluids for the engine, brakes, transmission, radiator, power steering, battery, differential, and windshield.

The most important automotive fluids you should be checking on a regular basis, especially during the winter and summer months when the temperatures are more extreme, include the motor oil, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You can refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to check each automotive fluid level.

Motor Oil

Also referred to as engine oil, your motor oil levels matter every time you turn the ignition. Engine oil is designed to lubricate the internal engine structure, thus abating friction and heat generation, which can be damaging to the engine and other automotive parts. Check your motor oil levels biweekly or monthly, depending on how often and how far you drive. Always be sure to let your engine cool completely before pulling out the oil dipstick. Get your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or according to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s instructions.

Radiator Fluid

Also called coolant or antifreeze, radiator fluid is responsible for regulating internal temperatures. It prevents a car engine from overheating. Coolant becomes contaminated with rust and other pollutants overtime, making it necessary to check and replace on a regular basis. Improper coolant levels or dirty radiator fluid can cause an engine to overheat, damage other internal engine components, and pose several safety risks to drivers and passengers of the vehicle.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic transmission vehicles require transmission fluid to keep the gears shifting properly. Like motor oil is a lubricant for the engine, transmission fluid acts in a similar way for the gears. Check the transmission fluid as often as you check the motor oil. Not only should you have enough fluid, but it should also be clean. Transmission fluid does degrade over time, and as a result can change colors or appear dark and dirty. Dark or black transmission fluid is dirty and requires replacing should be replaced as soon as possible.

Brake Fluid

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably one of most important safety components. after all, they allow you to stop your 5,000 pound car when it’s moving at 60 miles an hour! Brake fluid is an essential automotive fluid because it supports the performance of your car’s braking system. If you’re brake fluid is low or poor in quality, it can affect how well your car responds to brake pressure. You should have your brake fluid checked on an annual basis, or more often if you’re experiencing any type of automotive leak.

Power Steering

Today, most vehicles are designed with power steering, and therefore, require power steering fluid. Without sufficient levels of clean, quality power steering fluid, the steering wheel will become more difficult to maneuver, and eventually will hardly be movable at all. Power steering fluid should be checked every year or two years, depending on how often you drive and the age of the vehicle.

TIPS FOR CHECKING AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS:

↪ Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to check and replace the fluids in your vehicle.

↪ Aside from a transmission fluid check, your car should be turned off and the engine should be completely cooled down before you check any automotive fluid levels.

↪ Be sure your car is parked on an even and level surface for accurate readings.

↪ Choose top quality automotive fluids that are specifically designed for the intended application.

↪ Spotting a small puddle of liquid beneath or in front of your car can be an indication of an automotive leak. Have this inspected by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.

↪ Never forget about refilling your windshield wiper fluid. It’s very frustrating to run out when you need it most! It can also prevent traffic accidents and roadside emergencies!

↪ Overall, you should check all automotive fluids at least every month to ensure that levels are adequate, and liquids are clean.

Are you looking for a professional auto shop to provide routine car maintenance for your vehicle in place? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed auto service and car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Ask us about our auto repair and service promotions!

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What You Need to Know About Serpentine Belt Replacement

Posted on November 22, 2021 by autorepair

A serpentine belt is not a tacky snakeskin wardrobe accessory. It is a vital automotive part that helps power your car’s engine. If you have been driving your vehicle for several years, but have never had the serpentine belt replaced, it could be time now. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about serpentine belts, including information on serpentine belt replacement, maintenance, and repair.

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Serpentine Belt Operation and Design

A serpentine belt is a long belt inside the engine that winds around various pulleys, thus aligning them with the motion of the engine’s crankshaft. As the serpentine belt goes round, it causes the pulleys to turn, which sends power to many automotive components within a vehicle, including the air conditioning, alternator, power steering pump, and water pump.

If you have an older vehicle, keep in mind that they are known to require serpentine belt replacement sooner than modern-day vehicles do. Consult with your local Indianapolis auto repair shop to determine a routine car maintenance plan to support proper engine efficiency and performance.

Common Signs of a Failing Serpentine Belt

Although serpentine belts are manufactured to last for many years, they do need replaced every now and then. You will know if your serpentine belt needs to be replaced by looking for certain automotive performance issues. For instance, if you are having trouble with your air conditioning, car battery, or dimming lights in your car, it could be due to the serpentine belt not allowing the pulleys to send power to these automotive components.

Here’s What To Look For:

➾ Squealing Noise From Steering Wheel
➾ Battery Warning Light on Dash
➾ Temperature Warning Light on Dash
➾ Check Engine Light on Dash
➾ Sluggish or Heavy Steering
➾ Broken Air Conditioning

Serpentine Belt Replacement and Costs

Most automotive manufacturers recommend replacing serpentine belt at 60,000 miles; however, many vehicles can drive up to 100,000 miles without serpentine belt replacement work. The most important element of serpentine belt replacement is catching the need for replacement before the serpentine belt breaks.

Early diagnosis of engine problems is important, which is why routine car maintenance is critical for your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity. Your Indianapolis IN mechanic will be able to spot the need for serpentine belt work before it can break down on you. Not only can the save you a lot of time and stress, but it can also save you money.

The cost to replace a serpentine belt will depend on the price of the auto part itself and labor. Serpentine bells usually run anywhere from $25-$75, depending on the retailer and the make and model of the vehicle. Labor to remove and replace the serpentine belt can range anywhere from $100 to $200 or so. So, you can expect to pay anywhere between $200 and $300, depending on your make and model vehicle and the complexity of the job.

Are you looking for a trusted automotive mechanic for serpentine belt replacement in the Indy area? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed engine repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Caps

Posted on October 13, 2021 by autorepair

Typically, one does not ask questions about their gas caps until a gas cap has gone missing or begun to malfunction. If you are experiencing issues with your check engine light, fuel consumption rate, or fuel cap in general, continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about gas caps that may clear up your confusion and point you in the right direction.

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Fuel Cap FAQS

Can I Drive Without a Gas Cap?

Whether connected by a plastic tether or an old-fashioned manual screw-on, there are many reasons why a fuel cap goes missing. Regardless of why you no longer have a gas cap on your car, it is important to understand why you should not drive your vehicle until you have replaced the gas cap.

For starters, you can lose a nominal amount of gasoline to spillage and evaporation. Not only will fuel loss cost you a lot of money and waste your hard-earned paycheck, but what it will also allow moisture and organic debris inside of the gas tank, which can lead to fuel tank damages and costly repairs. It can also pollute the environment.

Furthermore, if you live in a state that requires vehicles to pass an emissions test prior to registration, not having a gas connected to your vehicle can affect this qualification.

Is it Expensive to Replace a Missing Fuel Cap?

If you are missing a fuel cap on your vehicle, the good news is they are inexpensive to replace. Additionally, the labor to install one is both easy and quick. In most cases, you simply attach it on yourself, so you avoid having to pay for labor. The cost of the gas will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but on average you can expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $15. They come in 55 to 57 mm or 58 to 60 mm options, including the threads.

Can the Gas Cap Cause the Check Engine Light to Come On?

Yes, your fuel cap can cause the check engine light to come on. If the gas cap is not properly screwed on or connected, the vehicle’s computer system will detect this disconnect and trigger the check engine light to illuminate. This is more common in modern vehicles, as older cars may not have this type of automotive technology.

How Do I Know if My Gas Cap is Malfunctioning?

There are many signs to look out for when it comes to detecting a faulty gas cap. One of the first signs that indicate you have a problem with your gas cap is unexplained fuel loss or increased gas consumption. If you’re noticing that you’re going through your fuel much faster than before, it could be that your fuel Is loose or disconnected. Another common sign of a faulty gas cap is lingering gasoline smells. If you are detecting gasoline odors in your vehicle, it could be a sign that your fuel cap is not properly attached.

How Often Should I Replace My Fuel Cap?

Unless your gas cap goes missing, you don’t need to replace it anytime soon. Gas caps are designed to last 50,000 miles or more. So long as you are taking your car in for routine maintenance, you will be immediately notified if there’s ever an issue with your gas cap by your trusted Indianapolis auto mechanic.

Are you experiencing automotive issues that need a quick diagnosis? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car maintenance and repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana, but at neighborhood prices. Request a free estimate, today.

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Top Car Care Tips for Road Trips

Posted on September 27, 2021 by autorepair

If you are planning an Autumn road trip, you have the right idea in mind! The ambient weather and changing colors of the leaves and flora will make your long-distance car trip one to remember. But before you pack up the car and hit the road, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is travel-ready. After all, you do not want to face unanticipated delays and breakdowns a long the way.

Continue below to review some of the top car care and auto maintenance tips that will help prepare your vehicle for a safe and enjoyable road trip!

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Avoid Road Trip Delays With Proper Car Care

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the majority of vehicles on the road today are more than 10 years old. If your travel vehicle is about this age, it is statistically more likely to break down. Whether you run into a dead battery issue and require a jump start or need a tow for a blown tire because you have no spare, long distance driving trips are known for unanticipated automotive malfunctions and setbacks just like these; but all of them are virtually 100% avoidable with the right preparation.

Top 3 road trip problems you can avoid with a qualified automotive pre-trip inspection:

⛮ Dead Car Batteries

One of the most frequent automotive problems experienced by long-distance road trip drivers is a dead car battery. There are many reasons why a car battery dies, but the most common cause is due to parasitic draw or drain, like accidentally leaving the interior cabin lights on all night. Other common causes of a dead car battery include problems with the alternator, starter, or electrical system.

⛮ Engine Malfunctions

Another reason why long-distance drivers run into automotive problems on a road trip is engine malfunctioning. There are many things that can go wrong within your vehicle’s engine, from gears and gaskets to belts, hoses, fans, and much more. If one of these components begins to malfunction or breaks down in any way, it can cause a problem with the engine.

Overheating car engines are common on long-distance road trips, especially during the warmer seasons. It is important to ensure that you always have an extra bottle of coolant, also referred to as radiator fluid or anti-freeze, in the trunk of your car in the case that your coolant gets low. Low coolant is the most common reason why engines overheat.

⛮ Tire Troubles

It is without a doubt that tire blowouts and flats are common automotive issues dealt with on long-distance trips. It is important to ensure that your tires are properly inflated prior to departing and routinely while traveling out on the road. Furthermore, not all cars, especially modern-day ones, come with spare tires, so you might want to consider purchasing a compatible spare if your vehicle does not already come equipped with one.

You never know when you might run over a nail or hit a pothole the wrong way. Having an extra tire on hand can get you back on the road in as little as 20 minutes so long as you have all the necessary tire changing tools. You can purchase emergency roadside kits at any local department store or through an online retailer. Such kids vary in size and quality, but for tire changing purposes you will need to make sure yours comes with a jack, torque wrench, reflective road triangles, flashlight, traffic vest, and other emergency roadside supplies.

How to Prepare Your Car for Road Trip Safety

The most effective and responsible approach to preparing your vehicle for a safe road trip is to bring it into your local Indianapolis mechanic. An ASE licensed automotive mechanic will know exactly what to inspect and what to look for when preparing for a road trip. Along with a comprehensive once-over inspection, they will make any proper adjustments and minor repairs to ensure your car is prepared for optimal efficiency and performance.

Are you ready to schedule your pre-trip car inspection with a trusted Indianapolis 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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