Must read: How Regular Change Oil Can Save Your Vehicle
When was the last time you check your vehicle oil? The old adage suggests that if you want to extend the life of your car you should need to change oil upon reaching 3,000 – 5,000 miles, this perception might change in this generation due to the modernization of engine technologies but then again some people follow this method without even knowing the reason behind. Hence, here’s a short overview that explains why change oil is essential and how it save your vehicle.
What does the Oil do?
People need blood to be its best shape and function, in a similar manner your car needs enough oil to properly operate. Engine oil plays a major role such as to lubricate, cool and clean some parts of the engine to keep your car runs in good condition.
Lubricate
When the engine roars to life or when your vehicle is running, some of its elements rubbing each other so hard which can cause of overheating. Oil will then travel through the oil pan, pump, filter, pickup tube, pressure relief valve and spurt holes and galleries parts of the engine, lubricate every portion allowing a smooth and stable ride.
Cool
Combustion temperature typically reaches 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit or can be very hot that can damage all those moving parts of the engine. As oil normally propagates, it carries a great deal of heat away from an internal combustion hydraulic engine (and cool some component) before it will move back and circulates again.
Clean
Road dirt and other sediments can be accumulated upon the oil cycle. These contaminants will be trap through the oil filter and will pass through easily upon using oil as it is designed to clean and avoid sludge that builds ups in the engine.
What Happens when you do not Change Oil regularly?
As a general rule, change oil is highly recommended as part of vehicle maintenance though there are cases that skipping the process (once or twice) will not occur any troubles but if you set it aside for a long period of time it will lead into possible repercussion like as follows.
- It will get the oil dirtier and will stop lubricating some parts which eventually wear out
- It affect the performance of the vehicle’s engine and to the point of overheating
- It can lead you into huge expenses of repair as damage engine parts will surely occur
- It will shut down the motor and need to replace some of the materials
- It shorten the life of the engine and worst, sending your car to an early grave
Problems listed above will certainly occur the moment you neglect to maintain your car. Fortunately, change oil is one of the cheapest maintenance which if you do regularly you will save your engine as well as your car from deterioration.
In case the damage is done, contact a skilled mechanic and car expert for best aid or recommendation. Your index finger is the key, dial (718) 297 9797 or click this link that leads you through a helping hand for a complex auto mechanical problem.
Read MoreFlood-Damaged Car? Keep Calm and Do This Procedure
The number of flood-damaged cars are increasing because of unpredictable natural disaster (typhoon) or even just due to crazy rains that caused some areas into flooding. If your vehicle is affected or near devastated then you have a serious problem. But, don’t panic instead, follow these steps that will help you evaluate the damage:
Don’t dare start the car! Typical car owner’s first reaction is to turn on the ignition to check if the car still works but we advise not to opt for this action as this will bring a bunch of risks and may cause more problem beyond repair.
How far does the vehicle submerge? Check the water line, if it reached the dashboard considered it complicated and call an expert
DYI cleaning. To start drying out your flooded car and avoid stinky odor and molds, open all the car doors, remove all wet items from the interior such as wet carpet, dashboard (if you can) floor mats, insulation and foam rubber in the seats as well as upholstery. Deciding if all the interior stuff is salvageable and replaceable or not is another question.
How about fluids and filters? Car fuel filter, coolant, transmission, brake and power steering reservoir needs to be check. If any seemed contaminated with the water, you should drain and dry it as this can lead to a lot of problems. Like, submerge brake system can lose its power while water in the transmission will cause of lack of lubrication and rust.
Let’s go with the electrical! Investigate brake, signal and hazard lights, air conditioning and headlights. Also check the power locks, audio, and video system as well as power window. If any of these doesn’t perform the way it should then it’s a sign of trouble.
Check it under. Submerge car collects a lot of dirt hidden inside or under the body that causes rust damage. Thus raise the car, securely inspect or remove the tire and wheels wash the mud and dry.
Considering you have followed these steps, still, you have to get ready for the worst scenario such as:
- Dry and clean flooded car parts might not last too long
- Water- logged car system will not function the way it used to be
- Mechanical and electrical issues will soon arrive
Obviously, flood-damaged car is a case to case basis, restoration may vary depending on your issue nevertheless, you have an option of leaving the task in the hands of the expert and a qualified mechanic, hence, New York City Auto Salvage and Glass can give you a hand in one call, dial 718-297-9797 and worry no more.
Read MoreTips to Determine if Your Car Should be Replaced or Repair
Generally, the average of car’s life calculation is about 8 to 10 years or 150.000 to 200.000 miles, if you pass it through most often than not, you will encounter some mechanical or other related troubles. Now, replaced or repair? This common question usually occurs in mind most likely if you feel like your vehicle’s condition is unstable, and it is very difficult to decide especially if you consider your auto as a jewel or if it has a sentimental value.
Consider the following facts that can help you determine if you should let go of your car or just opt to restoration.
Repair
Repair might be your first option but does it fit with the situation? Can you meet the following expenses?
- Engine and cylinder damage is one thing that you never want to show up as it has an estimated cost of $6, 000 to $10,000
- Replacing your car battery is a no cheap action you have to raise $6,000 out of your pocket
- One of the complicated issues is when you have a transmission problem if you experienced gear slipping and burning smell (when driving) then prepare your $4,000 for repair
- Suspension overhaul (comprised of shocks, control arms, and spring) might give you a headache as it cost $3,000 to $5,000 in order to bring it back into shape
- Important car part is the camshaft and when it is broken repair cost could be $2,000 or more
- Head gasket maybe cheap but the labor cost when you are aiming to replace it is around $ 1,500
Replace
Replace would be your second thought considering that it will surely cost a lot in a one time (unless, installment) payment. Are you ready for these?
- Brand new car is, of course, expensive depending on what brand or car type you wish to have. Cheapest car price varies from $12,995 to $17, 651
- You need to pay your car insurance, which most likely around $1, 905 you can have a bit cheaper (or higher) it depends upon the rate given by your chosen insurance agency
- Registration and licensing fees might be affordable on your end, but don’t forget that it is part of your expenses
Finally, the moment to decide has arrived, run the numbers and compare the repair cost and the amount you are going to pay when you opt to replace your car. Which side suits you best? If you still uncertain with your decision let me ease up your troubles, dial (718) 297 9797 and we will help you check your old car and give advice.
Read MoreTips to Pet-Proof your Car
Having pets especially dogs is a rewarding feeling. Many say that human can break your heart but dogs can break your seats, but not your heart. What if there will come a time that you need to bring your pet and give it a ride in your car? That your travel buddy has four legs instead of two. What are the things that you need to keep in mind?
Listed below are some of the things you needed to check and pay attention with so you won’t be embarrassed to give human a ride afterwards.
Invest Some Time Grooming Your Dog
If your dog is shedding, brush or comb your pup before leaving the house to keep excess hair out of your vehicle. To protect the car seats, you can take your dog to a pet groomer to trim the nails so it will lessen the chance to scratch the car leather seat. You can also use seat covers to protect the outside of your seat.
One Vehicle Intended for your Canine Buddy
Owning multiple cars? If yes, then use only one car if you are traveling with your canine buddy. You will save yourself from the tremendous cleaning and pay attention to just one car.
Keep your pets in one area
You can use a crate, seat-belt harness or just keep your dog in the back area of your vehicle, containing your pup in a smaller area means less mess and hair to clean later.
Save your Seats
Leather is a big no, no when you have a pet whose toenails are similar to a witch! They will scratch and destroy it even before you know it. You can use a blanket or an old sheet to cover up. In that way, you only not protect your seats but also you can easily collect the hair or furs with you.
Use T-shirts for Heavy Shedders
Lightweight t-shirt is your saviour here if your pup is a heavy shredder. Let them wear one. Tie the loose part in their belly to secure it. Yes, I know you are thinking that it cannot contain all the hair but it is way better than none, right?
Prepare a handy dandy cleaning kit
Bring with you the following in case you needed them: paper towels or tissue, wipes, dog brush, plastic bags, tweezers or anything you can use to remove ticks, a spare small bottle with soap and water for the ticks, and of course, dog treats (for reward). Oh, don’t forget to bring a bottle of water for rinsing.Just like you have a human baby with you? I know right!
Clean the area right away (Clean your pet, too!)
Once your pet leaves the car, it is advisable to clean as prompt as possible. Shake off the extra blanket on your seats outside of your car to remove the initial hair. Also, rinse your dog’s feet or wipe the excess dirt before letting them enter your car again to minimize the dust and dirt.
Yes! You can take your furbaby for a joy ride and adventures without your vehicle becoming a stinky, muddy furmobile. With a little planning plus equipped with your cleaning kit, you’ll always be ready for the worst. Then, by taking just a few minutes to clean your car when you return home, your vehicle can still be a pristine, sweet-smelling ride for your next journey out on the town.
Read MoreCar Cleaning Tips
Who does not want a sparkling car? Every car owner does! Not just for a show but also for resale value. But how will you achieve that? One of the most essential ways to maintain your car is to clean it; either bringing it to a shop for a car wash or doing it all by yourself.
Off course, car shop knows how to do it. They are doing it for business, right? But what if you will need to clean your car using your hands. How to do it? Time to get yourself dirty and productive with these following tips.
- Do not clean your car when it is hot. Hot just like immediately after driving or after parking it in direct sunlight. Cool it down first.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Nothing beats cleaning your car with comfy feeling. Also, stay away from wearing belts, clothes with zipper or snaps especially when you need to reach the top of your car. This can cause scratches to your car paint.
- Be mindful of the cleaning agent you are using. Dishwashing liquid (if you prefer DIY solution) is okay to windshield and side mirrors but a big no, no to car’s dashboard and paint. Remember, dishwashing liquid is grease stripper so anything that has to do with wax is not friendly to dishwashing liquid.
- Remove any accessories like a ring, watch, or bracelets that can cause unwanted scratches in your car’s paint.
- Read the back of the package of the car care products before using them. It pays to pay attention on how to use them to maximize and achieve best results.
- Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with water first before washing them to remove debris and other dirt that can stick to your sponge to avoid scratching the coat.
- Use a separate sponge for your wheels and for the body of the car.
- It is best to have designated chamois or towels for each section of your car.
- Do clean your car per one section at a time. Once done in one section, rinse it well. This is to avoid drying the soap in the car’s paint which can leave unnecessary marks.
Should you have any other tips? Give us your thoughts.
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Buying a Second-hand car? Here’s what to Look for.
I want to buy a used decent car but I don’t know where to start. When you are looking consider this following tips, hope this help you drive yourself an enjoyable car.
First, research the car you are looking for, you don’t want to waste your cash for nothing. Research the car, the pros and cons of having this kind car, and the availability of the parts for maintenance. If it is possible to know its history, then do so.
A car within your reach. Look for a car that is in your budget, there will always be a car for you that fits in your budget that will be very useful to you. Don’t forget to ask for discounts. Used cars are oftentimes negotiable.
Second thoughts? Have someone to be with you when looking for a car. It could be your partner, a relative or a friend who may know about cars or someone that knows your needs when it comes to having a car. Four eyes and two brains are better to meticulously find that car of yours.
The most important part, the CAR itself have an inspection checklist. Always inspect in broad daylight it will help you see the car inside out. Check for damage and rust look underneath the car check on the seams, the frame rails, the car flooring and also the trunk because those are the usual parts where rust tend to start. This also includes the paint, the paint is the first line of protection against the environment and also the one that gives that impression of “I want that car!” because of the paint job. Check for dents and scratches, the lesser of these problems the better. Check the doors, hood, and the trunk door, overtime these parts tend to not close firmly so it’s better to check them. We don’t want it to open while driving.
The heart of the car, the ENGINE. If possible start the engine, listen to it. It should run smooth in acceleration, deceleration and while driving. The temperature should always be in the safe range and not overheating. Any unusual rattling or vibrations could mean there’s something wrong with the engine. Check also for oil leaks; it could be from the engine itself, suspension, steering or brakes to avoid an unwanted accident.
The inside of the car. Check for the interiors, seats, dashboard, and carpeting. It’s better if the car has no history of flooding. Check the seat belts to make sure it is in good condition. Pay attention to the buckles and the belt itself; they should be cut-free.
Furthermore, check the gauges, if they are accurate. The fuel, speed and temperature gauge. They are telling you what is happening as you drive the car.
The accessories, additional features of the car. It’s good if all the accessories are intact when you inspect the car, it has good ventilation hot and cold weather, sound system, and car lighter socket for phone charging, it’s always better to maximize the whole car.
Ask for a test drive. It’s like meeting the person face to face or working with a work mate, this can help you develop on overall impression on the car you are wanting to buy.
And if you are still in doubt with everything, an EXPERIENCED SALVAGE YARD can help you. At New York City Auto salvage and Glass, we have a wide range of used cars for sale of any makes at an affordable price. We sell quality second-hand cars and we have staff in the yard to look after you. So if you are decided to buy yourself a good driving companion, just give us a call at (718) 297 9797 and we can help you!
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