The transmission system is possibly your car’s most important component. Without it, your car can’t move power from the engine to the wheels and will go nowhere. That’s why you can’t delay getting your transmission repaired when something goes wrong. But how much is a transmission repair service? Many drivers dread the cost of transmission service. Granted, it is one of the most expensive maintenance procedures for your car — but there are reasons for the price tag. Read on to learn how much transmission repair service costs and what makes up the price. How Much is a Transmission Repair?Estimating averages for the price of transmission repair is very difficult. Transmission systems are incredibly complex and can fail in vastly different ways. The final cost depends entirely on the root cause of your transmission issues. The price can range from being reasonably inexpensive to costing thousands of dollars. Here are rough price averages for different services a technician might carry out on your vehicle. Transmission Fluid FlushDuring a transmission fluid flush, technicians empty your transmission of the old fluid and top it up with fresh stuff. If you’re a seasoned DIY mechanic, you may be able to carry out this procedure at home. But be careful — without proper lubrication, your transmission will break very quickly. To be on the safe side, it’s best to get a professional transmission technician to replace the fluid. This service costs on average $80-$250. Transmission Fluid Leak RepairYour transmission could spring a leak for many reasons. Fluid lines can crack during cold northern Virginia winters, road debris could damage plugs or seals, or you could get a hole in the transmission pan. Because transmission fluid is vitally important to your car, you must get any leaks plugged as soon as possible. Transmission fluid leak fixes cost around $200, but the price often varies based on what caused the leak. Shift Solenoid ReplacementThe shift solenoid is responsible for the crucial task of controlling the flow rate of transmission fluid in your vehicle. If it fails, you could start experiencing gear slips, which can prevent you from changing gears altogether. Needless to say, this is a serious safety risk. Replacing one solenoid costs $150-$500 on average. However, most cars have two shift solenoids, so you may have to double the price. Additionally, replacing the solenoids is often more expensive on imported vehicles, like Volkswagens, BMWs, or Volvos. Transmission RebuildWhen a technician rebuilds your transmission system, they pull it out of the car and replace any damaged parts. They will aim to retain as much of the original system as possible to keep the price low. But a transmission rebuild service takes a long time, which can increase the cost. In general, a transmission rebuild will set you back $2,000-$4,500. Transmission ReplacementIf your car’s transmission is completely busted, there is no salvaging it. In this case, the only option is to get a new transmission. The thought of total transmission replacement will have many drivers break into a cold sweat. Transmission replacement is expensive, and a new system can cost anything upward of $5,000. You may be able to cut the cost by getting a used transmission, but that may cause reliability issues. Why is Transmission Repair So Expensive?There’s no sugarcoating it — transmission repair can cost a lot of money. But why is this particular service so expensive? Many factors affect transmission repair costs, and not all of them are something you or your technician can control. Some of the most significant elements that make up transmission service costs include: ComplexityOne of the most significant price factors with transmissions is their sheer complexity. This can make diagnosing the underlying cause of any fault or problem in the system very difficult. To give an extremely simplified explanation, your transmission consists of three systems working in unison — mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic. Almost any transmission issue could stem from a fault in any of these three systems. To accurately diagnose the issue, a reliable technician will run multiple tests and use a great number of tools. It can take hours for even the most experienced mechanic to identify the root cause. Vehicle AgeOnce the technician knows what’s wrong with your vehicle, they may have to get spare parts to fix it. The spares may be hard to find if you drive an older car. The original manufacturer could have stopped producing spare parts for your car. Third parties could still make them, but the technician has to figure out where they can purchase the parts. The rarer the spares, the more they will likely cost. Spare part availability is also a major factor in how long transmission repair takes. If the parts have a two-week delivery time, there’s simply nothing you or the technician can do but wait. Vehicle MakeVehicle make also has a large impact on spare part availability. In general, spare parts for domestic cars — like Ford or GM brands — are cheaper and more readily available. For foreign cars, like BMW or Volkswagen, the spare parts cost more because of import expenses. This situation is the same for foreign cars that are built in the U.S., like Honda, Nissan, and Toyota. The cars are assembled in America, but all of the parts are actually manufactured in various locations in Asia. This isn’t a hard rule and your technician may be able to surprise you with cheap spares. But in general, be prepared to pay more for transmission repair if you drive an imported car. Type of TransmissionFinally, whether your car has a manual or automatic transmission can affect repair costs. If you drive manual, good news — manual transmissions are, on average, cheaper to repair than automatic ones. Automatic transmissions are more complex and have more parts that can fail. The final price will depend on the type of transmission and vehicle, though. Repairing the high-end transmission system of a luxury or sports vehicle will likely cost more than a generic automatic transmission repair. Rebuild vs. Replace — Which Is Better?In the unfortunate situation that your transmission system is completely broken, you may hear your technician speak about rebuilding or replacing the transmission. If you don’t know what these procedures are, it can be difficult for you to choose the right service for you. Let’s take a look at the difference between transmission rebuild and replacement. RebuildRebuilding a transmission means the technician will remove the system from your car and completely take it apart. They will replace any damaged or worn components while salvaging as much of the original construction as possible. Finally, they’ll put the system back together and reinstall it into your vehicle. Rebuilding generally costs less than replacement, and it gives you a chance to get updated and better-performing parts, even for an old transmission system. But the task is challenging and not every auto repair shop is up to it. ReplaceTransmission replacement is a bit of a misleading term. It’s exceedingly rare for you to get an actual brand-new transmission. It’s more likely that your transmission will be shipped to the car manufacturer or a certified workshop for rebuilding with new parts. This procedure will cost you more than a rebuild at your go-to car repair shop. You also have no say in what parts the manufacturer will use. But it can be faster than getting the job done locally. For extremely damaged systems, it may be the only option — apart from buying a new vehicle. How to Avoid Transmission RepairsOne of the best ways to avoid a sky-high transmission repair bill is to take good care of your car. You should get your transmission system inspected by professional technicians every 30,000 miles or two years. This way, you can catch and repair minor faults before they spiral out of control into expensive, system-wide issues. You can also help keep your transmission in good shape with simple home checks and good driving habits. Things that can extend your transmission’s lifespan include:
Learn more tips and the common signs of transmission issues in our blog post on caring for your car transmission. Affordable and Reliable Transmission Repair in Chantilly & Warrenton, VADrivers in northern Virginia need a reliable and trustworthy transmission repair service provider. Our cold winter weather can easily ruin both transmission fluid and components. The hot and humid summers aren’t much better and could introduce moisture into your fluid lines. Advanced Automotive has been serving drivers in Chantilly and Warrenton for more than 35 years. Our expert transmission technicians are highly educated, and all carry ASE certification. We’re familiar with all kinds of transmission systems, no matter the vehicle’s make or model. We take pride in providing honest transmission repairs near you. Every transmission repair job at our shops begins with a thorough inspection. We will tell you exactly what’s wrong with your car while providing a cost-free estimate. We also offer quote matching to ensure you get a fair price for a proper service. Book a transmission repair appointment today, or call our Chantilly shop at (703) 952-3221 or Warrenton shop at (504) 353-6435. The post How Much Does Transmission Repair Cost? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/how-much-is-a-transmission-repair/
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Is your car pulling to one side as you drive, making it difficult to control? Have you noticed that the tires on one side of your car are much more worn than on the other side? If you’ve noticed something like this, it could mean the wheels on your car are out of alignment. To correct the issue, you need to hire a technician to realign your car’s tires. But what exactly does wheel alignment do for your car? Read on to find out what kinds of alignment services you can get, how they work, and why your car needs them. What Is Wheel Alignment?As you drive your vehicle, its components will gradually wear away. The most obvious sign of wear might be scratches and chips in the paint job, but it’s the damage to the components you can’t see that you should worry about more. Wheel alignment is also often called tire alignment. Technicians might prefer one name over the other, although they mean the same thing. Both terms refer to the angle of your car’s wheels, which impacts how they contact the road. But despite both terms referring to your car’s tires, they’re not actually behind any alignment issues. Instead, the problems are caused by your car’s suspension system. As your suspension gets tired and wears out, it can stop supporting your wheels properly. As a result, the tires might get misaligned, or start pointing slightly away from the center line of your car’s chassis. 3 Types of Wheel AdjustmentsWhen you bring your car in for alignment service, you will see the technicians move your car to a hoist to get to its underparts. They will then adjusts your vehicle’s suspension system to realign your wheels. While doing so, the technicians mostly look at three main factors: 1. ToeThe toe describes the angle the wheels tilt inward or outward when viewing your car from above. To get an idea, look at your feet but imagine they’re your car’s tires and your body is the chassis. Turn your feet left or right — this angle is what technicians mean when they talk about your car’s toe. The manufacturer of your car will have described its proper toe angle in maintenance documentation. Having the right toe alignment ensures your tires roll effortlessly when your car moves. A misaligned toe angle will cause your tires to drag along the road as you drive. This will cause excessive wear that is bound to quickly destroy your tires completely. 2. CamberCamber measures how far a car’s wheels tilt inward or outward when viewing the vehicle from the front. If the top of the tire tilts inward, the car has negative camber — conversely, the top tilting outward is positive camber. Calling the angle positive or negative is not a value judgment, just a way to describe the tire’s camber. In fact, most cars have a slight negative camber since it increases stability. But if the camber angle is too steep in either direction, it will start to wear your tires disproportionately on one side. Eventually, your car will begin to pull to one side, which can be a serious safety risk. 3. CasterThe caster angle is the most complicated wheel alignment adjustment, but also potentially the most important. It describes the angle of your car’s steering axis and the angle at which the suspension components meet the wheel when viewing the vehicle from the side. If the suspension connects to the wheel at a perfectly vertical angle, you would have a neutral caster. Tilt the angle toward the driver and you get a positive caster, while angling it away from the driver gives you a negative caster. Modern cars don’t use a negative caster. Your car should have an appropriate positive caster angle to improve its steering and ensure your steering wheel returns to a neutral position when driving straight. How Does Your Car Benefit from Tire Alignment?Surprisingly many drivers ignore regular wheel alignments, but they shouldn’t. Correcting even slight misadjustments in your tires can deliver significant benefits over time. The most significant ones include: Better Fuel EfficiencyEven though it may not be noticeable from the driver’s seat, even slightly misaligned wheels will drag along the road. Consequently, your car has to work harder to propel itself forward, which naturally wastes gas. Well-aligned wheels will roll effortlessly, which improved your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. You’ll get more miles out of a single tank and will save money on fuel expenses. Longer Tire LifespanWe probably won’t have to tell you that dragging your tires across pavement isn’t good for them. Misalignment will always lead to uneven and excessive tire wear. Properly aligned wheels ensure equal weight distribution across all wheels and reduce wear, meaning you won’t have to buy new tires as often. Smoother Driving ExperienceMisalignment can cause all kinds of unpleasant sensations during driving, from vibration to pulling. It could even lead to your steering wheel being permanently off-center. Well-aligned wheels will give a more comfortable and confident driving experience. Improved SteeringIf misaligned tires cause your car to pull or force your steering wheel off-center, you can’t steer your car properly. Not only is this frustrating, but it could also put you at serious risk of getting in an accident. Wheel alignment can improve the way your car handles and keep you in control, giving you a safety boost. Less MaintenanceIf your tires are out of alignment, every bump and jolt will cause more damage to your car. Northern Virginia’s winters put enough strain on your suspension as is — you don’t need misalignment to add to the problems. Wheel alignment isn’t free, but it can save you a lot of money in unnecessary car repairs. After all, it’s much cheaper than replacing a busted suspension system. What Types of Alignment Services Can I Get?For the purposes of wheel alignment, technicians consider your car to have two sets of tires — the front and the back. Depending on the issues you’re facing and the wear to your suspension, they may not always adjust the suspension for both axles. During wheel alignment, you can expect to get one of these five procedures:
How Do You Know You Need Wheel Alignment?Tire misalignment isn’t always obvious and some issues it causes could stem from any number of other car problems. There are a few telltale signs that you need wheel alignment services. If you notice any of the below symptoms with your car, bring it in for a nearest auto repair shop right away.
How Often You Should Get Your Tires AlignedEven if you don’t notice anything wrong with your vehicle, you should still get your tires aligned on a regular basis. In general, it’s recommended that you get wheel alignment service every 6,000 to 10,000 miles — roughly once a year. It might be a good idea to add tire alignment to your annual car maintenance routine. Get Local Tire Alignment Services in Chantilly & WarrentonNorthern Virginia’s icy winters and hot, humid summers can cause significant wear to your car and its components. The varying weather is also rough on our road surfaces. For both of these reasons, it’s important that you ensure your wheels are properly aligned. Advanced Automotive has been offering tire alignment services in Chantilly and Warrenton, VA, for more than 35 years. Our ASE-certified technicians use professional computerized tools to ensure your toe, camber, and caster angles comply 100% with your car’s manufacturer’s recommendations. As a bonus, we offer tire wear inspection and a tire pressure check with every wheel alignment service. Book your wheel alignment service appointment today, or call our Chantilly shop at (703) 952-3221 or Warrenton shop at (504) 353-6435. The post What Does Wheel Alignment Do for Your Car? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/what-does-wheel-alignment-do/ Every vehicle, no matter how well maintained, will eventually need to get its brakes serviced. But are brakes a minor car repair? Or will you have to shell out a lot of money for extensive car care work? Brakes are one of, if not the most crucial, safety equipment parts on your car. As such, you must keep them functioning correctly to stay safe on the roads — no matter the cost. But every brake job doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Read on to learn which brake repair jobs are the most demanding and how much it costs to repair car brakes. What Affects the Scale of Brake Repair?Car brake systems are relatively complex systems. Many factors can impact the extent of repairs you need, how much it costs, and how long it takes to repair your vehicle’s brakes. Here are some of the most significant things that can affect the scale of repairs. The Type of BrakesMost cars have two kinds of brakes — disc brakes and drum brakes. They have different parts, which can push the cost of repairs up or down. Disc brakes consist of a caliper, brake pads, and a brake rotor. When you press on the pedal, the caliper squeezes the brake pads against the rotor, which stops the car. Many modern cars have disc brakes on the front wheels, but some sports vehicles have them on all four wheels. Drum brakes have two brake shoes, a piston, and a bunch of springs inside the brake drum. During braking, the springs and piston press the brake shoes against the drum to slow your car. Drum brakes are typically cheaper than disc brakes since their parts are easier to manufacture. Additionally, your car’s brake system has brake lines and fluid that may need repair or replacement. The Car’s Age, Make, and ModelBrake systems can vary in complexity between car makes and even models from the same manufacturer. The car’s age will also play a part in what kind of brake systems it will have. Your car’s age, make, and model will affect the availability and cost of spare parts. Generally, spares for older cars and imported European vehicles — such as Volkswagen, Mercedes, or BMW — will cost more than those for new domestic vehicles. Part QualityMost brake parts come in three different quality grades — Economy, OEM, and Premium. Your choice of part quality can have a significant impact on their cost. Economy parts are the cheapest but will wear out faster than higher quality parts. OEM parts mimic your car’s original features and provide a balanced cost-quality ratio. Premium components are the most costly, but they will perform better — although they may not last longer. Degree of DamageThe wear and tear to your brakes will determine the scope of necessary repairs. The logic is simple — the more damaged your brakes are, the more repairs they need and the more it will cost. A simple brake pad replacement won’t take long or cost you that much. But if all the parts of your brake system are damaged beyond repair, you can expect to pay a lot of money to get a complete overhaul. How Much Does It Cost to Repair Brakes?Now you know the most significant factors that determine the scale of auto brake repairs. But you might still be wondering about the cost. Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer we can give you. When you get a brake job, you’ll have to pay for both parts and labor. The price of both things can vary wildly based on the abovementioned factors. Brake pads and shoes are the cheapest components of the brake system. If replacing them is all you need, you probably won’t have to pay too much. Brake pads for one wheel typically cost around $100. If you do get new pads, you probably also have to replace the brake rotor. New pads can struggle to grip a worn rotor, which could put you in serious danger. The average top price of brake rotors is roughly $150 per wheel. Then there are the calipers, the most expensive and intricate part of your brake system. Manufacturing and replacing them isn’t easy, which is reflected in the cost. A single caliper could cost you as much as $175. These are per-wheel prices, so if you need to get parts replaced on every wheel, multiply the prices by four. But you also have to pay for the labor to install the new parts. Labor costs depend on the auto repair shop you use and the local taxes and regulations. In total, complete brake replacement service generally averages between $1,500 and $3,000 dollars, depending on your vehicle. Note that this is only a rough estimate, but it should give you an idea of the maximum budget you will need. How Can I Limit Brake Wear and Tear?As you’ve learned, brake repairs can be relatively minor in certain situations. However, brake systems can wear down surprisingly quickly, causing minor problems to turn into major ones. This is particularly true in northern Virginia, where both the hot and humid summers and frigid winters can wreak havoc on your brakes. Worn brakes are a serious safety risk (and can even be illegal), so you should get them fixed as soon as possible. Luckily, there is a way you can limit brake damage. Regular Maintenance Preserves BreaksThe best method to keep brake issues from spiraling out of control is regular maintenance. If you’re an experienced DIY mechanic, you may be able to inspect brakes on your own and even do basic repairs. But because of their importance for your safety, the best option is to take your car to a reliable service shop for maintenance. Regular inspections will help you spot small problems with your brakes as soon as they appear. This way, you can address them before they become big problems — keeping the scale and cost of brake repair at a minimum. How Often to Get Your Brakes ServicedIn general, you should get your brakes replaced every 20,000-80,000 miles. Check your car’s owner’s manual for the recommended brake service intervals. However, it’s best to ask your technician to check the brakes every time you take your car to a shop. Additionally, there are signs that your brakes might be having issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your car in for a brake check immediately:
4 Ways to Make Your Brakes Last LongerYou can also keep brake repairs minor by practicing good driving habits. Keep these easy everyday driving tips in mind behind the wheels to avoid straining your brakes. You’ll make your brakes last longer, save money on maintenance, and stay safer on the road.
Brakes work by converting motion energy into heat. Sudden and strong braking produces a lot of heat, which will quickly wear down your brake pads, shoes, rotors, and drums. Pay attention to the traffic and start slowing down in good time. You should also learn to coast. Simply lift your foot off the brake pedal and let your car slow down on its own, applying brakes only when you have to.
It might be tempting to go slightly above the speed limit, especially if the road is mostly empty. That said, don’t do it. Not only can it be dangerous, but speed is your brakes’ worst enemy. The faster you go, the more your brakes have to work to stop the car. Driving at the speed limit keeps you safer and avoids excess brake wear.
Your driving instructor should’ve taught you not to double foot, but everyone needs a little reminder now and then. Double footing means resting your leg on the brake pedal when you don’t intend to brake. Pedals are very sensitive, and even slight pressure can partially activate your brakes — even if you don’t notice it. This wears your brakes down unnecessarily. When driving, always keep your foot off the brake pedal until you actually need to stop.
Brake fluid is naturally hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the ambient air. Water in our brake lines makes them less effective, forcing you to brake harder and wear your brakes down faster. Get your brake fluid flushed every two years to maintain its condition. First-Class Brake Repair Shop for Chantilly and Warrenton, VAOne good final tip for saving on brake repairs is to find a reliable and affordable auto repair shop. A good shop can address brake issues before they get out of hand, keeping both the scale and cost of repairs down. Advanced Automotive has been serving drivers in Chantilly and Warrenton, VA, for more than 35 years. Our expert, certified technicians know the ins and outs of every car make and model. We will keep your brakes in perfect condition at all times. We never do any work on your car before informing you of all the problems we find. You’ll get an honest opinion on what’s wrong with your brakes and can choose whether or not to address the problem. We also offer quote matching to ensure you get a fair price. Book your brake service appointment online, or call our Chantilly shop at (703) 952-3221 or Warrenton shop at (504) 353-6435 The post Are Brakes a Minor Car Repair? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/are-brakes-a-minor-car-repair/ It’s a hot summer day, but luckily your car’s air conditioning (AC) system is there to keep you cool at the wheel! But what if you turn on the AC and it doesn’t work? You might be facing one of these common car AC problems. Car AC systems can fail for a staggering number of reasons, but some of them happen more often than others. It helps to be aware of the most common car AC issues so you know when it’s time to bring your vehicle in for AC repair service. Let’s take a look at the 12 most common problems with car AC systems. We’ll go through the usual causes when there’s no air coming through your AC, in addition to some other issues you may encounter. 1. Your Fans Have Gone BadFaulty fans are potentially the most common car AC problem, whether you drive a domestic Ford or foreign import Mitsubishi. When the fans break, they stop blowing cool air over your condenser. As a result, your condenser begins to emit only hot air, which won’t help cool down your car. Rocks and debris on the road could crack the fans and lead to poor cooling performance. Blown fuses, electrical problems, or worn belts can prevent the fans from spinning altogether. AC fan repair is complex electrical work, so if you notice your fans aren’t moving, bring your car in for AC maintenance and repair. 2. You Have Electrical IssuesProblems with your car’s electrical wiring can prevent current from flowing from the battery to the AC system components. Naturally, they can’t work without power and you won’t get any air from your cooling system. Electrical issues can be very difficult to diagnose. Sometimes they’re caused by obviously frayed or broken wires, but even a seemingly intact wire could have broken inside the insulating surface. Discovering the cause of electrical problems requires a thorough, professional inspection. 3. The Condenser is BlockedYour car’s condenser is responsible for cooling hot refrigerant after it finishes circulating through the AC system. The air flowing through the front of the moving car does most of the work to keep the condenser cool. But if dirt and debris clog the condenser, it will struggle to cool the refrigerant, leading to poor AC performance. Luckily, you can usually fix this issue without extensive repairs. Simply check your vehicle’s front grille and clear any leaves, dirt, and other material that could be blocking it. It’s a good idea to clear the grille regularly to maintain your AC. 4. The Condenser is BrokenBut what if you cleaned the grille and you’re still not getting cool air out of your AC vents? In this case, it may be that your vehicle’s condenser is simply broken. Rocks and other objects on the road can fly into your engine compartment and punch a hole into your condenser. The condenser could have also given up the ghost because of regular wear and tear. If your condenser is broken, there’s no easy method to fix it. In most cases, you will need to get an experienced auto AC repair technician to replace the component. 5. Your Compressor Is DeadThe compressor is the single most important component of your car’s AC. It’s responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system. If it fails, there will be no cool air coming through your vents. Lack of regular use is the most common reason why compressors fail. This is a particularly common car AC problem in northern Virginia with our long and cold winters. If you let your AC stand idle for months and then turn it on in the spring, you can shock the compressor and cause it to break. Unfortunately, the only way to fix a dead compressor is to get a technician to replace it. You can extend your compressor’s lifespan by running the AC at full blast for 15 minutes once a month — even in the middle of winter. 6. You Have a Refrigerant LeakCar AC systems rely on a refrigerant to cool down the air blowing into the cabin. With low or no refrigerant, the AC becomes unable to keep you cool. Refrigerant leaks are among the most common car air conditioning problems. It can be very difficult to tell if your refrigerant is leaking, but one telltale sign of a leak is an oily substance around AC hose connections. If you notice this kind of buildup, bring your car to a reliable auto repair shop — a technician can seal the leak and top up your refrigerant levels. 7. Your Air Intakes Are CloggedIn addition to the front grille, your AC system takes in air through vents at the lower edge of the windshield. If this intake becomes clogged, the airflow through the AC drops, leading to poor cooling performance. This is a particularly common car AC problem during fall in northern Virginia when falling leaves can accumulate in the air intake. If you notice leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris at the bottom of your windshield, clear them off immediately. This way you’ll maintain the airflow in the AC system and reduce wear and tear on its components. As a result, they’ll last longer and you’ll save money on expensive AC repairs. 8. The AC Smells BadIf you turn on your AC and you smell moisture and mildew coming from it, you’re likely dealing with one of two problems. First, car AC air filters can collect dirt and moisture, which can lead to bacteria and even fungi growing on the filter. Second, bacteria could also thrive in the moist environment of your evaporator case. We don’t have to tell you that breathing in mildew isn’t healthy, so you should address any AC odor issues quickly. Replacing the AC filter regularly keeps it clean and free of odors. If you smell mildew even with a new filter, a car AC technician can add an anti-bacterial solution to the evaporator area to kill mold and other contaminants. 9. There’s Water on the FloorboardsHere’s another common car AC problem that stems from bacteria. The evaporator coil in your vehicle is located behind the dashboard. It’s usually moist and bacteria could start accumulating in it, eventually clogging its drain line. A clogged drain will cause the evaporator to overflow and leak water inside your car. If you notice dampness or puddles of water on your vehicle’s floorboards, you should bring it in for repair service right away. A technician can clear a clogged evaporator’s drain hose or replace it with a new one to resolve the issue. 10. The Air Suddenly Gets HotThe air blowing from your AC should be cold. If you’re driving and a hot air blast suddenly hits your face, something has clearly gone wrong. One of the most common car AC issues leading to this situation is a blocked expansion valve. The expansion valve’s job is to dispense an appropriate amount of refrigerant to the evaporator. Moisture and humidity — like that in northern Virginia during the summer months — can cause the valve to freeze. To resolve this problem, a technician has to inspect the AC components and system pressure to thaw the expansion valve. 11. Your AC is Very LoudWhenever you hear an inexplicable, loud noise from your car, it’s cause for concern. The AC system is no different. If you start hearing rattling, banging, grating, or any other strange noises — especially when you turn the AC on — it’s a good idea to get a professional to check the system. As with all car components, unusual AC sounds can indicate a wide range of issues. It could be something as simple as leaves and dirt caught in an intake, or something more serious, like a failing compressor or improper lubrication. If your vehicle’s AC starts making noises, take it in for service. You might be able to catch a major fault in the system before it becomes more serious and expensive. 12. The Air Feels DampThe cabin of your car might get a bit humid when you first turn the AC on, but the dampness should disappear soon enough. But if the air feels wet and humid constantly, there’s something wrong with the AC system. Get the issue checked out — summers in Chantilly and Warrenton are humid enough without your AC contributing to it! The most common car AC issue leading to wet or humid air is moisture or dirt that’s gotten trapped inside the cooling system’s lines. Your car AC technician can flush the system to efficiently resolve the problem. Get Your Car AC Problems Fixed in Chantilly & Warrenton, VASummers in northern Virginia are infamous for their high heat and humidity. Your car’s enclosed cabin sure doesn’t do anything to help. When the mercury climbs above the 90-degree mark, you need your car’s AC system to function well to keep you comfortable and safe while driving. Advanced Automotive has provided drivers in Chantilly and Warrenton, VA, with first-class auto air conditioning repair services for more than 35 years. Our ASE-certified technicians are experts with the AC systems on all car makes and models. Don’t sweat at the wheel. No matter how common or rare the AC problem you face is, Advanced Automotive will fix it quickly and affordably. Book your AC service appointment online today! You can also call our Chantilly shop at (703) 922-3221 and Warrenton shop at (504) 353-6435. The post 12 Most Common Car AC System Problems | Advanced Automotive appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/car-air-conditioning-problems/ Does your car make an ear-shredding screech whenever you brake? Or does your brake pedal feel strangely soft and spongy? That means it’s time to get your brakes repaired. Many drivers shudder at the thought of taking their car in for brake service. You need well-functioning brakes to stay safe, but the repair service costs so much. But how much should brake repairs cost? How do you know you’re not getting overcharged, and how can you save money on brake repairs? Read on to find out! How Much Should Brakes Cost to Repair?Unfortunately, there’s no simple rule of thumb anyone can give you on how much brake repairs should cost. A slew of factors can affect the price and push it up or down. As such, please keep in mind that any numbers you’re about to see are estimates and averages. For starters, the total cost of a brake job consists of two different parts. You’ll have to pay for both parts and labor. Furthermore, the cost will depend on the type of repairs you need. If you just need your brake pads replaced, you might get off relatively cheap. In total, the parts and work for replacing brake pads cost generally between $350 and $450. However, this cost will vary depending on the car model, and shops may add additional taxes and fees to the price. Rotor replacement is more expensive, but it’s often important to do since new brake pads can have problems gripping onto worn rotors. A single rotor costs around $50-$150. Brake calipers are the most expensive part of your brake system. A single caliper can cost as much as $100-$175, depending on the vehicle. What’s the Average Cost to Get Brakes Repaired?With some basic math, we can calculate the average price of a brake job, at least for the parts. Just to repeat ourselves, these are merely estimates and the actual price you get can — and probably will — vary. You can use these numbers as guidelines to figure out if you’re getting a fair price. Just remember, like with all things, cheaper isn’t always better — you could be compromising the quality of your brake components or labor. The average costs of different brake parts are:
For the complete brake job, you also need to add in the cost of labor. How much car repair shops charge for labor will vary wildly, so we can’t give you accurate estimates. In general, the labor cost for a total brake replacement ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on availability and the vehicle. How Often Should You Replace Your Brakes?How often you need to put money toward repairing your brakes depends on your car and driving habits. That said, the general guideline is to replace your brake pads every 20,000 miles. You should also get your rotors changed every 50,000-80,000 miles. But to make sure you stay safe on the road, it’s a smart idea to get your brakes checked once a year. You can ask a technician to do this during your car’s regular annual check-up. As such, it may be a good idea to budget for some level of annual brake repair to avoid nasty surprises. What Affects the Cost of Brake Repairs?Although the parts and labor make up the majority of a brake job’s cost, they’re by far not the only factors. There are also many other things that can raise or lower the cost of parts and labor, or add new fees on top of them. Here are some of the most common reasons for fluctuations in brake repair costs. Your Car’s Year, Make, and ModelThere are variations in brake systems between cars, so not every component will fit every single automobile. Additionally, replacement parts are more accessible for certain cars, so the make, model, and manufacturing year of your car can have a significant impact on how much you pay for brake repairs. In general, brake repairs for European cars — like Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, or Mercedes — will be more expensive than those for American or Japanese cars. This is mostly due to spare part availability and shipping costs. Additionally, the type of car you drive can affect the price. For example, new brakes for a heavy diesel truck will likely cost more than those for a Honda Civic. The Type of BrakesThe type of brakes you have in your car will affect how much you have to pay to repair them. Car brakes fall into two categories — disc brakes and drum brakes. For more information on the different brake types, read our blog about preparing for a brake job. Although disc brakes are fast replacing drum brakes, most non-performance vehicles still have drum brakes on their rear wheels. On average, disc brakes are more expensive to repair due to the drum brakes being older and slightly simpler in construction. Specialty repairs, like ABS system maintenance, can also rack up the price. Wear and DamageThe condition of your brakes will play a big role in determining the cost of brake repairs. If all components of your brakes are completely worn out, you can expect to pay a lot of money to get all of them replaced. Regular brake inspections can help you anticipate when your brakes will need replacement and budget accordingly. Good driving habits can also minimize brake wear and help you save money. We’ll cover some good tips for maintaining your brakes in a moment, so keep reading! Replacement PartsYou already know that you have to pay for the replacement parts, but every car will have options. These generally include:
Location and RegulationsLocal taxes and regulations may have a noticeable effect on auto repair services. The exact same brake job done by the same service shop could cost a lot more if it was done in a different state. Additionally, the service shop you go to can increase or lower the price. Some shops add additional fees on top of labor, or they may simply charge more per hour. It’s a good idea to find a reliable service shop that offers quote matching and brake service coupons to keep your costs low. 5 Ways to Save Your Brakes (and Money)You need to get your brakes inspected regularly to make sure you stay safe on the road. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend money on replacement parts and repairs every single time. With good driving habits, you can maintain easily extend your brake components’ service life. At the same time, you’ll save money on repairs and stay safer on the roads. You win in every way! Here are five simple things you can do to save money on brake repairs in the long run. 1) Buy OEM or Premium BrakesWhen replacing your brake pads, shoes, or rotors, it might be a good idea to get OEM or premium quality parts. You’ll have to pay more up-front, but the tougher materials can in some cases last for a longer time. Even if they don’t, they’ll improve your car’s braking performance. Being able to stop faster can save you from much more expensive emergency repairs. 2) Brake Calmly and SlowlyAbrupt and heavy-footed braking wears your brake components down surprisingly quickly. Pay close attention to the traffic when driving and start braking in good time to gradually bring your speed down. It’s a good idea to also learn how to coast with your car. Coasting means simply taking your foot off the gas pedal and letting your car slow down on its own. 3) Keep You Foot Off the PedalDon’t rest your foot on the brake pedal unless you mean to engage it. Brakes in modern cars are very sensitive and even slight pressure could partially engage your brakes. You may not notice it in the driver’s seat, but it will cause premature brake wear. 4) Obey the Speed LimitSpeed is your brake system’s worst enemy. Your brakes work by transforming energy into heat. Every MPH greatly increases the amount of energy they need to dissipate and consequently causes much more wear and tear. 5) Flush Brake Fluid RegularlyBrake fluid naturally attracts moisture into your brake lines. Water and air trapped in the lines will make your brakes less effective, which means you have to brake harder. The result is once again more wear on the parts. You should get your brake fluid flushed every two years. The good news here is that most car service shops charge flat fees for brake fluid exchanges. For example, Advanced Automotive charges $99.95 for brake fluid service. Get an Affordable Brake Job in Chantilly and WarrentonTo make sure you don’t pay more than you have to for brake service, you need to find a reliable and trustworthy car service shop. Advanced Automotive has been fixing brakes in northern Virginia for more than 35 years. Our ASE-certified technicians are familiar with all car makes and models. Whatever kind of brake service you’ll need, we can do it quickly and affordably at our conveniently located Chantilly and Warrenton locations. We give 100% free estimates before doing any work, so you know what you’ll be paying. We also offer quote matching to ensure you can stay safe in a way that fits your budget. And to sweeten the deal further, you can get an extra discount with our brake service coupons. Book your brake service appointment online today. The post How Much Should Brake Repair Cost? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/how-much-should-brake-repair-cost/ Every day, thousands of cars, vans, trucks, and other vehicles traverse the roads, delivering goods and products to their destinations. Each of these vehicles is part of a fleet — a business’ collection of vehicles necessary for its operation. Hauling cargo across hundreds or even thousands of miles is a daunting task for the drivers. But it can be even more challenging for the person or team responsible for managing the fleet. How do they keep all those trucks moving? In this article, we’ll explain what fleet services are. We also explore the differences between fleet management and maintenance services and give tips on how to best keep your vehicle fleet on the roads. What Are Fleet Management Services?Fleet management covers all the things that are required to keep a vehicle fleet operational. Both commercial fleets, like those belonging to a business, and non-commercial fleets, such as a public fire department’s fleet of fire trucks, require fleet management. Fleet management services, then, are outsourced commercial services that take care of an organization’s or business’ fleet management for them. Some companies prefer to hold the reins of their fleets, but sometimes it’s a better idea to outsource fleet management. For example, when setting up a new fleet, an outside fleet management services provider might have more experience in the smooth management of a vehicle fleet. Your business could hire them in the beginning, and then switch to internal management once you’ve built up a reliable team. It may also simply be cheaper to hire outside services for fleet management. To keep even a few trucks functional requires a lot of money and expertise, from fleet managers to knowledgeable automotive technicians. Whether it’s less costly to hire someone else than keep these experts on your payroll depends entirely on your circumstances. What Do Fleet Managers Do?On the surface, a fleet manager’s job might seem easy. All you have to do is make sure the vehicles are on the roads and reach their destinations… Right? If we grossly oversimplify the role, yes. But a fleet manager’s work day is far from simple. Just some of a fleet manager’s most important tasks include:
What Is Vehicle Fleet Maintenance?Simply put, vehicle fleet maintenance is everything you need to keep your business’ or organization’s vehicle fleet in working order. But it’s much more than simply getting a technician to fix a broken truck. In fact, vehicle fleet maintenance begins before anything has even gone wrong. Managers responsible for maintaining a fleet’s vehicles must determine the optimal driving conditions for each vehicle based on legal requirements, vehicle manufacturer recommendations, and financial realities. They also have to consider when and where to get their fleet’s vehicles inspected, who should inspect them, and who should carry out any necessary repairs. As with fleet management, many businesses prefer to hire outside companies offering vehicle fleet maintenance services to keep their trucks functional. Why Are Fleet Maintenance Services Important?But the ultimate goal of fleet maintenance services is not to fix broken vans or trucks. In fact, it’s almost the opposite — a good fleet maintenance services strategy should prevent vehicles from breaking down in the first place. It’s not difficult to see why fleet managers would want to avoid repairs at all costs. Fixing severely damaged car parts can be expensive, but that’s only the beginning of it. A broken-down van or truck can’t be out there on the road transporting cargo. Consequently, a broken vehicle can lead to delivery delays or even missed shipments. If your customers can’t get the goods they need, their operations could grind to a halt as well. Not only will they — and you — lose money from halted operations, but in the worst-case scenario, you could even risk a lawsuit over a delivery contract breach. That doesn’t sound pleasant, and that’s exactly the reason why fleet maintenance services are important. Every good fleet maintenance strategy should include regular inspections to spot any issues before they spiral out of control. How Often Should You Get Fleet Vehicles Maintained?You no doubt understand now how crucial it is to keep your vehicle fleet in optimal working condition. But you might be asking how often you should bring your vehicles in for service. Vans and trucks have slightly different maintenance schedules, so your best bet is to consult the owner’s manual or ask the manufacturer. That said, you should get an inspection and a tune-up for every commercial vehicle once a month or every 5,000 miles. This may sound excessive, but regular and frequent check-ups can save you a lot of money in emergency repairs and keep your vehicles running for thousands of miles longer. In addition to inspections, commercial vehicles need comprehensive maintenance every 10,000-20,000 miles or at least once a year. During this maintenance, you make sure the fleet services provider changes all oils and fluids, inspects the engine, tests and repairs the brakes, performs wheel alignment, and ensures all safety equipment functions correctly. How Can You Develop an Effective Fleet Maintenance Program?Your business or organization needs a detailed plan to properly maintain your fleet and keep every vehicle in ideal condition. The exact details of how you should draft your strategy depend on the kinds of fleet management software you use, the vehicles you employ, and the daily distances they drive. Here are four handy tips that can help you in creating a fleet maintenance plan that ensures your vehicles get to where they need to go on time. 1) Maintain Detailed Vehicle RecordsBefore you take any other steps, you need to know precisely what vehicles you have in your fleet. You should also map each vehicle’s general health and condition so you can identify potential upcoming issues. Make sure you know the full ownership and transaction history of each vehicle, including all previous owners and dealers. In addition, you need to know their maintenance records. You should have on hand at least the following details for every vehicle:
2) Involve Drivers in Fleet MaintenanceYour drivers will often know best what issues each vehicle is facing — after all, they spend long hours behind the wheel. It’s a good idea to create a driver-vehicle inspection report (DVIR) template that your drivers can fill out after each journey. Include space on the template for drivers to list any issues they faced with every component, including the engine, brakes, transmission, wheels and tires, windows and mirrors, and the vehicle exterior. This way you’ll stay on top of any looming problems while also offering your drivers a supportive work environment where they can make their concerns heard. 3) Determine a Smooth Maintenance ScheduleYou can now determine when each vehicle should come off the road and get an inspection from a professional technician. Consider each van’s or truck’s age, frequency of use, accumulated mileage, known issues, and service history when making the determinations. Some vehicles might need a check more often than others. It’s also a smart idea to stagger the maintenance schedule to ensure you always have enough vehicles to run your operations. Bring your vehicles in for service one or two at a time and you’ll keep your business running smoothly. 4) Find a Reliable Fleet Service ProviderFinally, you need to choose who will maintain your vehicles. Decide if you want to have an in-house team of technicians or whether you’d rather outsource your fleet services. Whichever option you go for, you need to be sure you can rely on your chosen technicians to keep your fleet in optimal condition. If you choose to outsource, it’s best to find a fleet service shop that can maintain and repair any kind of vehicle and offers a reliable warranty. Where to Get Fleet Services in Northern Virginia?Advanced Automotive has been serving private and commercial vehicles in northern Virginia for more than 35 years. At our shops in Chantilly, VA, and Warrenton, VA, we offer comprehensive fleet services for businesses of all kinds. Our ASE-certified technicians keep your entire fleet running at peak performance. We perform all necessary tasks, from regular check-ups and oil changes to specialized transmission and engine repairs. Thanks to our deep expertise and our A+ rated customer service, we’ll give you the peace of mind to concentrate on running your business knowing your vehicles are in the best possible condition. We also do more than repair vehicles. Our full range of fleet services includes inspection and shipping services. We also offer consultation appointments to help you create a fleet service plan that works for you. Call us today at (703) 952-3221 and ask more about our comprehensive corporate fleet services. The post What Are Fleet Services? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/what-are-fleet-services/ The summers in Virginia can get exceedingly hot and humid. But don’t worry — your car’s air conditioning system is there to keep you cool. That is, until it isn’t. Driving a lot in high heat will put a lot of strain on your car’s A/C. If it suddenly decides to give up the ghost, you’ll be in for one sweaty drive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to extend your A/C’s lifespan. Read on to learn 12 easy tips on how to maintain car air conditioning systems. How to Maintain Car Air Conditioning SystemsKeeping your car’s A/C operational is not so much about technical maintenance operations. Instead, it’s all about small, simple things that reduce the load on the air conditioner and help it last longer. Of course, there’s a whole slew of DIY repairs experienced gearheads can do. However, car air conditioners can be complicated, so it’s best to get professional A/C repair service for such operations. Here are 12 easy things you can do at home to give your car air conditioning some tender loving care: 1. Use the Air ConditionerThe air conditioner on your car was made to be used. One of the best ways to keep it functional is to simply turn it on. You should run your car A/C for 10 minutes every week. Even in winter, turn the A/C to the coldest setting and highest fan speed. Doing so maintains gas pressure levels within the system and keeps the compressor some exercise to preserve its health. 2. Run the A/C in Defrost ModeHere’s another simple weekly maintenance task that only requires you to turn the air conditioner on. You should run the A/C in defrost mode for around 10 minutes weekly. The heat from the defroster will remove moisture from the air conditioning system, which prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Your A/C vents will stay cleaner, the A/C will last longer, and you get to enjoy fresh air without musty and unpleasant odors. 3. Keep the Air Filter CleanEvery car air conditioner has a filter to remove impurities. If the filter gets clogged with dirt, it’ll hinder airflow. As a result, your A/C has to work harder and will wear itself out sooner. You should check your car’s air filter regularly and change it as necessary. The filter is usually located in the glove box, under the dashboard, or under the hood. Check your owner’s manual for its location, or ask a technician to change the filter for you. 4. Clear the Exterior Air IntakeThe trees in Virginia are gorgeous in both summer and fall, but all those leaves can be a menace to your car’s air conditioning. They can pack at the exterior air intake and clog it, leading to similar issues as a clogged air filter. Always brush all leaves, twigs, and dirt off the bottom of your windshield. You should also pop the hood and clean under it if necessary. 5. Clean Your Car’s InteriorAs the air conditioner works, it sucks in air from the inside of your car. If your car interior is full of dust, dirt, and sand, all that stuff will pack into the A/C system. Ideally, you should clean and vacuum your car once a week. That might seem excessive, but if you notice a lot of dirt accumulating on the floor mats, it’s time to vacuum. 6. Recirculate Air (But Not With Backseat Passengers)Running your A/C in recirculation mode can reduce the strain on the system. Instead of pulling hot air in from the outside, your A/C will suck in air from the inside and re-cool it. This makes its job much easier. But if you have backseat passengers, you might want to avoid recirculating air. It’s fine for the front seat, but those in the back will probably be stuck with stale and hot air. 7. Don’t Pre-Cool Your VehicleIt might be tempting to let your A/C run for a few minutes before driving so you can get into a nice, cool vehicle. But don’t do it. Car air conditioning systems work more effectively when the car is moving due to the increased airflow. We know a pre-cooled car is more comfortable, but cooling a standing car will wear your A/C out faster. 8. Keep the A/C at the Coldest SettingThe air conditioner in your car works the most efficiently when it’s set to the lowest possible temperature. Running it at higher temperatures forces the A/C to re-heat air, which wears it out faster and also burns more fuel you have to pay for. Keep your A/C turned to the coldest setting. If your car gets too chilly, simply turn down the fan speed. 9. Use the A/C Controls GentlyWhen you get in the hot car, you may want to turn the air conditioner to full blast. But just like you shouldn’t slam the gas pedal to the floor, turning your A/C to full right away can damage its components. It’s best to gradually cool your car down to preserve the air conditioner’s functionality. After all, if you turn it to full and it breaks, you won’t be cooling your car at all. 10. Keep Your Windows ShutOn hot days it may be fun to lower the windows and feel the wind in your hair. But your poor air conditioner isn’t on board with the idea. Lowering your windows will lower the A/C’s efficiency and use up more coolant and fuel. Opening the windows will also let hot outside air in, which forces the air conditioner to work extra hard. 11. Park in ShadeThis might seem self-explanatory, but it’s a simple tip that’s worth repeating. On hot days, try to park your car in the shade if possible. Leaving your car under the sun will make it hotter and increase the strain on your air conditioner when you start cooling it down. Parking in a garage or under an awning or a tree can lower the internal temperature by a few degrees and give your A/C a breather. 12. Get Your A/C Serviced RegularlyRegular professional maintenance ensures your car’s air conditioning system is free of leaks, low fluids, and other issues. You should get your A/C serviced once a year, preferably before the summer heat creeps in. Additionally, your car A/C needs its refrigerant recharged regularly since you lose about 10-15% of it every year. This isn’t a job that should be done at home, since it can be difficult to impossible to tell how much refrigerant gas is in the system. How often your car A/C needs recharging depends on the car and how you use the air conditioner, but the rule of thumb is 1-2 years. It’s best to bring your car in for an annual A/C check in early spring. How a Car Air Conditioning System WorksYour car’s air conditioning system functions much in the same way as that in your home. But it’s much smaller, so engineers have had to make some tweaks and modifications to certain parts. Here’s the basic operating principle of a car A/C:
Signs That You Need Your Car Air Conditioning ServicedUnlike with some other systems in your car, it’s fairly easy to tell if your air conditioning needs service. If it’s not blowing cold air, it’s time for maintenance. But there are also other signs that could indicate A/C issues. If you notice any of these problems, bring your car to a reliable service shop for maintenance:
Get Expert Air Conditioner Maintenance in ChantillyIt’s important to keep your car’s air conditioner functioning in northern Virginia. Not only are our summers hot, but our winters can also get freezing cold. A well-maintained air conditioning and heating system keeps you comfortable during any season. Advanced Automotive has more than 35 years of experience in servicing car air conditioning systems in Chantilly. Our ASE-certified technicians are familiar with the A/C components of all car makes and models. With our help, you’ll stay cool in the sunshine and warm when snow falls. Book an A/C maintenance appointment online, call us at (703) 952-3221, or visit our conveniently located auto repair shop at 4007-A Westfax Dr, Chantilly, VA 20151. The post 12 Tips for Maintaining Your Car Air Conditioning System appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/how-to-maintain-car-air-conditioning/ Well-functioning vehicles keep roads and drivers safe — that’s simply a fact. The Commonwealth of Virginia requires annual safety and emissions inspection on all registered vehicles to maintain safety on the roads. It makes sense for the Old Dominion to mandate safety inspections. Our cold and often snowy winters can create dangerous conditions. Meanwhile, the humid summers can cause plenty of wear and tear on vehicles. You may find it inconvenient, but the state safety inspection protects your safety. You may also face expensive fines if your car isn’t inspected. But how can you ensure your vehicle passes the inspection? Read on to learn what’s needed to pass a car inspection in Virginia and how you can prepare for the check. What Does the Virginia State Inspection Check?In short, the state inspection checks everything. During the inspections, technicians will examine all of the major components and systems of your vehicle to ensure it complies with state safety and emission regulations. Unlike most car inspection services, however, a state inspection doesn’t aim to find certain flaws in your car. As long as the components fulfill legal requirements, the inspector will clear and pass your car. But if you’re getting an inspection at a reliable car service shop, the technician may recommend getting worn parts fixed — even if they’re legally compliant. Virginia Vehicle Inspection ChecklistSince the state inspection aims to ensure your car’s legal compliance, technicians have a detailed checklist they use to check your car. This is good news for you since you always know what to expect at the inspection. The technician will begin the inspection by removing and destroying your expiring inspection approval sticker. They will then proceed to check these parts and systems:
If all the parts of your car are in acceptable condition, the technician will place a new inspection sticker on your windshield. You’ll also get a pink paper certificate to prove your car passed the inspection. How Much Does the Safety Inspection Cost?Virginia has standardized fees for the annual safety inspection. Unfortunately, the fees went up by a few dollars a few years ago. Currently, the fees for Virginia state vehicle inspections are:
How Long Does the State Inspection Take?In general, the inspection isn’t a particularly long process. Depending on the technician’s or inspector’s skills, a state inspection generally takes between 30 minutes and one hour. But technicians generally carry inspections out on a first-come-first-serve principle. If other people have brought their vehicles in before you, you may have to wait longer. To be on the safe side, don’t plan on driving your car anywhere on the day of the inspection. What Will Fail a Virginia State Inspection?If you thought the list of things to check during a state inspection was long, you haven’t seen anything yet. The number of things that could fail your car is even longer. But there’s a good reason for that. Car components and systems can fail in many ways, so technicians need to account for all of them when inspecting your vehicle. They’re not looking to bully you — only to keep you safe. That said, certain issues cause cars to fail their inspections more often than others. Let’s take a look at common issues that can fail a Virginia state inspection. 6 Most Common Reasons for Virginia State Inspection Failure
What Happens if I Fail the Vehicle Inspection?So, perhaps your tires turned out to be too worn or your windshield was cracked, and you failed the inspection. Don’t worry, because you can still fix everything. If your car fails the state inspection, the technician will give you a rejection sticker. This sticker allows you to operate your vehicle legally for 15 days. Use that time to address the problems with your car and get it re-inspected. If the rejection sticker expires, you’ll be liable for hefty fines for operating an uninspected vehicle. How Can I Prepare for a Virginia State Inspection?Before you head to an inspection station, it’s a good idea to give your car a preliminary check yourself. You can save time, effort, and potentially money if you spot and fix glaring issues prior to the inspection. Here are some things you can do to make passing the inspection more likely:
If you spot problems with any of these parts or systems, book an appointment at a reliable car service shop. It’ll save you the trouble of going in for an inspection you know you’ll fail. When Should I Bring My Vehicle in For an Inspection?According to Virginia law, you need to get your car inspected annually. Check the inspection sticker on your vehicle for its expiration month. The sticker expires on the last day of the indicated month. Do I Need to Get New or Antique Vehicles Inspected?Virginia’s auto inspection laws are fairly strict on a national scale. In practice, there’s only a single exception to the annual inspection requirement. Having a new car doesn’t exempt you from vehicle inspections. If the dealership has inspected the car, you’re good to drive it for the next 12 months. If they haven’t, you must get your new car inspected immediately. Antique vehicles form the only exemption to Virginia’s inspection rules. If your classic car is more than 25 years old and is not used for regular transportation, it’s exempt from state inspections. Contact Virginia State Police or DMV for more information on antique vehicle rules. Get Your Car Inspected in Chantilly and WarrentonAs you now know, it’s vital to get your car inspected in a timely manner. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find a good place for safety and emissions inspections around Chantilly and Warrenton. Virginia authorities don’t maintain a list of available inspection locations. The police say the list of locations changes daily based on business opening times, inspector availability, and other factors. But good news — Advanced Automotive is always ready to inspect your vehicle. The ASE-certified technicians at our Chantilly location will give your car a thorough, legally compliant check. And if your car would happen to fail the inspection, we can recommend and carry out the fixes you need right then and there. While you wait for our technicians to inspect your car, you can enjoy our A+ rated customer service. We offer complimentary refreshments and free Wi-Fi to keep you comfortable while we work on your vehicle. Book an inspection appointment online, call our Chantilly shop at (703) 952-3221, or simply drop by at our convenient location at 4007-A Westfax Drive, Chantilly. The post What You Need to Pass a Virginia Car Inspection appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/what-virginia-car-inspection/ Many things could leave you stranded by the side of the road. You could get a flat tire, run out of gas, or a nasty pothole could crack your suspension. But whatever the scenario, one thing’s certain — your car won’t be going further on its own. Not only is being stuck on a road frustrating, but it could also be dangerous. Poor visibility around corners could lead to someone crashing into your broken car. Your vehicle could also block a busy road. For all these reasons, you must get your car towed away fast. But towing services can be exorbitantly expensive. Fortunately, you may already have a way to get cheap — or even free — towing without realizing it. Read on and find out how to get a car towed for free, or at least cheaper than calling a commercial towing service. 7 Tips on How to Get Your Car Towed for Free (or Cheap)The key to getting your car towed fast and cheap is being prepared. Too many drivers don’t have a plan for what to do when their car breaks down. Not being prepared for emergencies behind the wheel can be both costly and dangerous. But the good news is that you may already have your ticket to free or cheap towing in your wallet or on your phone. Here are a few ways to get free towing service — or at least one that won’t break the budget. 1. State Safety Service PatrolIn many states, like Virginia, the Department of Transportation maintains a Safety Service Patrol (SSP). The SSPs provide quick and cost-free roadside assistance to people whose cars are stuck on busy highways or interstates. Depending on the state, the SSP may not provide actual towing services. But they can help you avoid calling a tow truck altogether — which will definitely save you money. All SSP officers can help you move your car off the road, assist you in changing tires, jump-start your engine, or bring enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station. They can also call a towing service of your choice if they can’t tow your vehicle themselves. 2. AutomakersDoes your car’s warranty still active? Then good news — the automaker just might be able to tow your car. Whether or not you get the service for free depends on the terms of your warranty and whether you drive a new or used vehicle. You should also be aware that many automakers will only tow you to their nearest dealership. But even that certainly beats being stranded in the middle of nowhere. For the full details of whether or not you can get towing from your automaker, check your owner’s manual and warranty documentation. You can also call your local dealership. 3. Car Insurance CompaniesMany car insurance companies offering comprehensive insurance policies will have a roadside assistance program you can add to your plan. Granted, the add-on probably won’t be free, but in general, it doesn’t add much to your monthly bill. A typical car insurance roadside assistance program costs a few dollars a month and you might be able to get a discount if you pay annually. Even if you only ever use the assistance program once, you’re still likely to save money when compared to hiring a professional towing service. Ask your insurance company for more details about their roadside assistance policies. 4. Credit Card CompaniesSometimes, the help you need comes from the place you least expect it. Many people don’t know that their credit card might get them out of roadside trouble. But some credit card companies do indeed offer towing services. For example, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover all offer cards that come with a roadside assistance program. Their fees are also likely to be lower than a towing service provider’s. Visa, for example, will tow your car anywhere within 5 miles for a flat fee of $69.95. It’s not free, but you are almost guaranteed to save money. 5. Wireless Service ProvidersUnfortunately, many wireless service providers seem to the phasing out their roadside assistance programs. But there are still some operators out there who will help you get off the road. If you do get a tow truck through your phone service provider, you can expect it to be much like getting one through a credit card company. You’ll have to pay a fee, but it’s still likely a bargain. Your wireless service provider can tell you whether they still provide roadside assistance. If they do, you just might have a service worth hanging on to. 6. Car ClubsTo many people, car clubs — like AAA or Better World Club — are the first thing that pops into their minds when they wonder how to get their car towed for cheap. And car clubs certainly offer comprehensive roadside assistance. Of course, these services are restricted to their members. The basic membership for both AAA and BWC sits around $60/year at the moment. But once again, that’s cheap compared to dedicated towing services. 7. Local Auto Repair ShopsOne of the best ways to get truly cost-free towing is to call the local car repair shop you frequent. Some shops offer towing services for their customers. And since you probably would’ve taken your car there to be fixed in the first place, you won’t have to pay for the tow. Local shops often have range limits on how far they can tow your car. For example, Advanced Automotive offers free towing within 10 miles of our Chantilly or Warrenton shops, while also operating long-haul towing services. How Much Does Car Towing Cost?It can really pay off to think in advance about who you will call in the case of an emergency. That’s because most ordinary towing services can cost you a fortune. If you can’t get anyone else to tow your vehicle, the police will use their own tow trucks or call a towing service, depending on their arrangements. This is the most expensive option. Towing services requested by the police can cost you $200 or more — per hour. Compared to police-requested towing, commercial towing services are cheaper — but still not cheap. Every company has its own starting cost and billing method. Some of them bill you by the mile, while others charge by the hour. Some companies offer flat-rate fees, but their prices are generally very high. The national average cost of towing services is around $100. However, the price can go much higher depending on the time of day, type of vehicle, and the towing distance. That’s why you should consider your cheap towing options well ahead of the time you need them. How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Roadside AssistanceSo, let’s say something’s gone wrong with your car and you need assistance. It might be tempting to hop out of your car and call a tow truck right away. But that’s not what you should do. A stuck car can be very dangerous, both to you and other road users. If you find yourself stranded, follow the below steps to ensure everyone’s safety. Get Off the RoadIf your care can move at all, make sure to move off the road. The best place to go is a flat, open area on the right shoulder of the road. But any spot will do in a pinch — just get off the road. Make Sure You’re VisibleTurn your emergency blinkers and hazard lights on as soon as you realize your car won’t be going any further. If it’s safe to get out of your car, you should also pop the hood and set up emergency triangles or flares. This way other drivers can give your vehicle a wide berth, while the tow truck driver can spot you easily. Secure Your VehicleIf your stopped car gets rear-ended, it could get pushed back into the traffic. It could also begin rolling down a slope. After you’ve stopped, turn your wheels away from the road and engage the hand brake to keep your car securely in place. Consider Staying in the CarIf you’re stranded in the middle of a busy highway or interstate, don’t leave your vehicle before helps arrives. If you must get out, leave through the door that’s facing away from most of the traffic. Once out, never leave your vehicle and go looking for help — you could get lost and be in even greater danger. Call for HelpOnce you and your car are safe, you can start calling for help. The first number to call should be 911, whether or not your car is blocking traffic or anyone’s been injured. Only call for a tow truck after you can be sure you, your car, and other road users are safe. Get Free Towing in Chantilly and Warrenton, VAIt’s particularly crucial to have an emergency towing plan in northern Virginia. Our weather conditions are — unfortunately — tailor-made for leaving you stuck by a road. The humidity in the summer months could pack dirt in your car parts until they break, while in the winter, the roads might as well be ice skating rinks. Advanced Automotive offers free towing in the Chantilly or Warrenton areas. Our auto repair clients can get their cars towed cost-free within 10 miles of our full-service shops. We also offer long-haul, insurance, and emergency towing. We’re the highest-rated AAA towing service in northern Virginia. You can trust that our truck operators get your vehicle to our technicians quickly and safely. For Advanced Automotive towing services, call (703) 952-3221 The post How to Get Free Towing Service: 7 Best Methods appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/blog-what-virginia-car-inspection/ Your car runs well, there are no strange sounds or issues, and it gets you from Point A to Point B. That means everything is fine and dandy, right? Not necessarily. There could be a small problem lurking somewhere within your vehicle’s engine or systems that’s not immediately obvious. But as you keep packing on miles, this insidious problem will keep getting worse. When you finally notice it, your car may no longer be in safe, drivable condition. But the good news is that you can catch problems early with a car diagnostic test. This test analyzes the vehicle’s engine through the engine control unit (ECU) — its central computer. Read on to learn how often you should get a diagnostic test and what the test entails. How Often Should I Get My Car Diagnosed?First things first, how often does your car need a diagnostic test? Well, this first question is also the most difficult to answer. Strictly speaking, your car doesn’t need a diagnostic test. Unlike brake repairs or oil changes, the test doesn’t actually maintain any single-safety or operating-critical component. It simply probes your car’s systems for any possible stealthy issues. That said, it’s still a good idea to get a car diagnostic test at least annually. If you really want to stay on the safe side, a quarterly computer system check isn’t too much. This way you’ll ensure that every system and part in your car is functioning as usual. You’ll also save money by not having to resort to emergency repairs and roadside assistance. Situations Where You Need a Diagnostic TestApart from the annual tests, there are certain times outside the regular schedule when a diagnostic service is in order. If you encounter any of the below situations, bring your car in for a check.
What Exactly is a Diagnostic Test on a Car?If your car was built in the last three decades or so, it will be heavily computerized. You might not think so, but there’s an entire network of chips and sensors in your vehicle that constantly track the performance of its engine. Although computers can always glitch, this degree of computerization is a huge benefit to technicians. During a diagnostic test, they tap into the car’s computer systems to identify any problems the ECU hasn’t caught. That said, your car’s computer won’t clearly tell the technician, “My transmission is failing.” Instead, the technician will interpret a number of performance reports to identify the most likely problem. Because diagnostic tests require expert knowledge and specialized equipment, it’s best to bring your car to a professional auto service shop for testing. Which Parts Will Technicians Test?Car computer systems have advanced greatly in a relatively short time. As a result, technicians can now identify problems with many different components and systems through a car’s computer. During a diagnostic test, they will check for:
The diagnostic test gives technicians a solid idea of the overall health and condition of your car. But it can’t check for every possible issue. For example, depending on the age and make of your car, it may not be able to identify things like worn brake pads or whether you need wheel alignment. What Happens During a Diagnostic Test?In short, technicians connect to your car’s computer system to identify hidden problems when they run a diagnostic test. Naturally, the full process is more involved than that. Although different car service shops have different working methods, the basic workflow looks like this:
How Long Does a Car Diagnostic Test Take?On average, a car diagnostic test takes about an hour to an hour and a half. But this is just a rough guess because it’s very difficult to accurately estimate how long an engine diagnostic test takes. Getting the error codes from your car’s computer usually only takes a few minutes, but that’s just the beginning. The codes won’t tell technicians exactly where the problem is, so they’ll have to check the most likely areas using their own two eyes. Depending on the issues they discover and the extent of repairs they need, the length of the diagnostic test could stretch to several hours or even days. Here are some things that could cause the test to last longer than about an hour:
How Much Does the Test Cost?As is usually the case with car maintenance services, it’s very difficult to say how much you’ll have to pay for the diagnostic. The national average price for diagnostics is about $100, fluctuating up or down by $50. Of course, that will only cover the price of the diagnostic service itself. If your car needs any repairs, those can add to the final cost. Fortunately, you may be able to get a diagnostic test done completely free. Customer-oriented auto repair shops, like Advanced Automotive, can give you a free courtesy check when you bring your car in. The technicians will inform you about any issues they find and leave the choice of whether to address them to you. 5 Benefits of Getting Your Car DiagnosedThe computerization of cars has made life easier for both car owners and technicians. Running a quick diagnostic test with a handheld scanner brings great benefits to everyone involved, including:
Get a Reliable Car Diagnostic Test in Chantilly and WarrentonIf you live in an area with varying weather or rough roads, you’ll want to get your car diagnosed regularly. Unfortunately for your vehicle, Northern Virginia happens to be just such an area. During the hot and humid summer months, your car internals can easily get caked with dirt and leaves, which can cause all manner of issues. In the winter, the cold weather and icy roads can also wreak havoc on your car. This is why it’s important to stay on top of problems. Advanced Automotive offers comprehensive car diagnostics at our conveniently located shops in Chantilly and Warrenton. We’ll also give you a free courtesy check when you bring your car in. Our expert technicians will let you know if they find any issues and leave the choice of fixing them up to you. Book a diagnostic appointment online or call us today to get your car tested. The post How Often Should You Get A Car Diagnostic Test? appeared first on Advanced Automotive. Via https://advancedautomotiveva.com/blog-how-often-car-diagnostic/ |
About UsAdvanced Automotive has been the go-to car repair service in Chantilly and Warrenton, Virginia, since 1989! Owned and run by the family, our stores take pride in providing our customers with the experience they deserve in auto care. ArchivesNo Archives Categories |