BRAKES

It is recommended that you have your vehicle's entire brake system checked every year, including brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, calipers and brake fluid.  Brake fluid should be changed every two to three years or 24,000 miles to 36,000 miles.

Brakes are a normal wear item for any car.  Eventually, they're going to need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons.  Don't let our brakes get to the "metal-to-metal" point, which usually means more expensive rotor or drum replacement.  Contaminated brake fluid may lead to corrosion and other problems in the hydraulic system, especially on cars with anti-lock brakes (ABS).

Call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule a brake inspection.

CABIN AIR FILTERS

The cabin air filter takes contaminants out of the air you breathe and helps prevent allergens, dust, fumes, and odors from circulating inside your vehicle.

Cabin air filters should be replaced annually, or more often in areas with heavy airborne contaminants or whenever heating or cooling efficiency is reduced.

When was the last time the cabin air filter was changed in your vehicle???  Give us a call (530) 621-4591 and schedule an appointment to have the cabin air filter changed.

SUMMER DRIVING SAFETY TIPS

Summer is the most popular season for road trips.

Destinations like amusement parks are best enjoyed when the weather is warm, and there is nothing like sitting next to an open car window letting a mild breeze slip through your hair.  But you can't have a memorable summer car ride without taking care of your vehicle and keeping safety top of mind.  Here are some summer driving safety tips recommended by AAA.

Get your car ready - Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires are some of the most common reasons for breakdowns.

• Batteries have a typical lifespan of about 3-5 years.
• Tires should be inflated to manufacturer specifications and be in good shape with plenty of tread and no cracking, bulging, or breaks.
• Make sure the cooling system is ready by having it flushed on a regular basis.  And make sure that all hoses and belts are in good condition.
• The transmission, power steering and windshield wiper fluids should all be checked for levels and conditions of fluid.
• Make sure all lights are working
• Getting locked out of your car is never fun make sure you always take care of your smart keys and keyless entry fobs.  Always take these with you when exiting the car, avoid exposing them to water and replace the batteries as recommended.
• Have the air conditioning system checked BEFORE it gets hot outside.

If you have any questions regarding your vehicle or need to get it ready for a summer trip please give us a call at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.

Six Great Ways to Save Fuel...and Money

Get more miles out of every gallon of fuel by maintaining your vehicle with a few simple service from The Auto Analyst, your local NAPA AutoCare Center.

1. AIR FILTERS - An air filter clogged with dirt, dust or bugs chokes off the air and creates a "rich" mixture - too much gas being burned for the amount of air - which wastes gas and causes the engine to lose power.
2. SPARK PLUGS -  A vehicle normally has four, six or eight spark plugs, which fire as many as 3 million times every 1,000 miles, resulting in a lot of heat and electrical and chemical erosion.  A dirty spark plug causes misfiring, which wastes fuel.
3. OXYGEN SENSORS - When is comes to improving your vehicle's fuel economy, this is one of the top ways to make a noticeable difference.  Properly functioning oxygen sensors are good for the environment and can save hundreds of dollars in fuel costs over their life.
4. PROPERLY INFLATED TIRES - When tires aren't inflated properly, it's like driving with the parking brake on.  Under-inflated tires can cut fuel economy by 2 percent per pound, which means if your tire pressure is 27 pounds per square inch (psi) when it should be 32 psi, you've reduced your gas mileage by 10 percent!
5. OIL AND FILTER CHANGE - Clean oil reduces friction between moving parts in your engine, increasing fuel economy and reliability.  It also removes harmful deposits, extending the life of your engine.
6. FUEL INJECTORS - Clean fuel injectors make sure that the fuel is sprayed evenly from the injectors so no fuel is wasted.  Fuel injectors should be cleaned every 15,000 miles.

Give us a call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule a fuel saving appointment or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com to request an appointment online.

SPRING DRIVING TIPS

Springtime brings rain and the aftereffects of winter weather - potholes and uneven pavement.  Keep these spring driving tips in mind before you travel:

• Spring showers bring May flowers - and wet driving conditions: Slow down on slick roads and increase your following distance even when mist begins to fall.
• Share the road: Warm weather brings out motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Try to avoid potholes: Deep potholes can throw your car out of alignment or worse, damaging the wheel and tire.
• Avoid driving through large puddles: Driving through water can impair your brakes, cloud your vision, cause you to hydroplane, plus you never know exactly how deep the water actually is.
• Keep your tires properly inflated: Full tires can reduce the damage caused by potholes and other road hazards.

If you have hit any large pothole please give us a call to have your vehicles steering components checked to make sure all is good.

Call us today (530) 621-4591.

5 TIPS FOR DRIVING SAFELY IN THE RAIN

Singing in the rain is fun. But driving in it? Not so much. Driving in light or heavy floods, or even just rainy, stormy conditions can be anxiety inducing. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are on average more than 950,000 automobile accidents each year due to wet pavement, resulting in approximately 4,700 deaths and 384,000 injuries.

Being behind the wheel with a rain-splattered windshield doesn't have to be a white-knuckled, nerve-racking experience. Here are some tips and techniques for driving in a downpour:

1. Think.  When conditions are less than ideal, drivers need to stay alert and focused on what's going on around them.
2. Turn on those headlights. It's the law to turn on headlights when visibility is low and  require having the headlights on when the windshield wipers are in use. 
3. Beware of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is the technical term for what occurs when your tires lose traction with the road due to excess water on top of the road. The result is that your vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably. It's easy to hydroplane: all you need is one-twelfth of an inch of rain on the road and a speed of more than 35 miles per hours. If your tires have extensive wear and tear, you are more highly likely to hydroplane. You can hydroplane even if you are driving a four-wheel drive car, SUV, or truck. 
   
   If you start to hydroplane, let off the accelerator (gas pedal) slowly, and steer straight until you regain control. If your car starts to spin, turn your wheel in the direction that the vehicle is spinning, slowly. Do not turn your wheel against the direction it has begun to spin. Do not jerk the wheel sharply in one direction or the other, as you could flip your car due to over correction. 
   
   Consider taking a driving course through your local DMV to learn how to drive safer on wet roads and better avoid hydroplaning.  
4. Turn off cruise control. Ironically, on rain- or snow- slick surfaces, cruise control may cause you to lose control. You might think it'll help you stay at one steady speed, but if you hydroplane while you're in cruise control, your car will actually go faster.
5. Slow down.  Let up on the accelerator and allow more time to get to your destination.
6. Be extra cautious with merging lanes. Motorists should drive defensively and take precautions when passing vehicles to prevent merging collisions.

Extra precautions might help ease the anxiety associated with driving in the rain, making it safer for everyone. 

Need to schedule an appointment?  Please call us at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.

The "W" in Motor Oil Means Winter

DID YOU KNOW??

A common misconception about multi-viscosity motor oil such as 5W30 or 0W20 is the "W" means weight.  Even in the oil industry we refer to 5W as a 5 weight.  The "W" stands for Winter.  The first number is the viscosity needed at startup or when the engine is cold.  The next number is the viscosity needed at operating temperature.  So, a 5W20 needs to act like a 5 viscosity at startup and a 20 viscosity at operating temperature.  5W starts out great but thins out too much as the engine heats up.  A 20W is too thick at startup but is right where we want it at operating temperature.  Thus, we use a 5W20.  We achieve this by using an additive called Viscosity Index Improver which makes the oil thin out less.

Visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com

TIMING BELT

A timing belt or timing chain is a part of an internal combustion engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s) so that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes.  In an interference engine the timing belt or chain is also critical to preventing the piston from striking the valves.  A timing belt is usually a toothed belt - a drive belt with teeth on the inside surface.  A timing chain is a roller chain.

In the internal combustion engine application the timing belt or chain connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s), which in turn control the opening and closing of the engine's valves.  A four-stroke engine requires that the valves open and close once every other revolution of the crankshaft.  The timing belt does this.  It has teeth to turn the camshaft(s) synchronized with the crankshaft, and is specifically designed for a particular engine.  In some engine designs the timing belt may also be used to drive other engine components such as the water pump and oil pump.

DO I REALLY NEED TO REPLACE MY TIMING BELT?

The timing belt is an often overlooked part of the car but it plays an extremely important role.

Timing belts must be replaced at the manufacturer's recommended distance and/or time periods.  Failure to replace the belt can result in complete breakdown or catastrophic engine failure, especially in interference engines.  The owner's manual maintenance schedule is the source of timing belt replacement intervals, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles but sometimes as little as every 30,000 miles.  It is common to replace the timing belt tensioners and water pump at the same as the belt is replaced.

Don't have an owner's manual or have questions regarding your vehicle's timing belt/chain??  Give us a call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: Your Air Conditioning

I bet you didn't know but your cars air conditioning runs during the winter.  The air conditioning system is used for defogging the inside of the windshield and front windows.  When the inside of the car get wet from snow or rain the air conditioning system helps dry it out and rid the car of excess humidity.

Is your air conditioning working correctly?  Give us a call today at (530) 621-4591 to schedule an appointment or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com to request an appointment.

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: YOUR TIRES

It is time to check your tires and make sure they have at least 4/32 inches of tread depth remaining.  Rain and wet leaves reduce traction and can cause hydro-planing with tires with low tread.  Look for abnormal tread wear, which may indicate an alignment or suspension problem.  Cooler weather also causes tire pressure to drop, so inflate tires to the pressure indicated on the tire and loading label on the driver's door jam.

If you have any questions or concerns please give us a call at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: YOUR BATTERY

Hot summer weather is hard on batteries, but when it gets cold outside that is when a bad battery shows itself.  First, look for corosion on the battery terminals.  This needs to be cleaned or repaired to eliminate resistance between the battery and the rest of the electrical system, such as the starter.  have the battery load-tested and replace it if it tests low or weak.

Don't wait until it's too late call today to have your battery tested (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com to schedule an appointment.

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: YOUR WIPERS

A good guideline is to replace standard wiper blades every six months and constant pressure blades every 12 months, but they may wear sooner.  Now is a good time to replace any wiper blades that streak, chatter or don't clear the windshield properly.  Don't forget to check the washer fluid level too.

If you have any questions or need wiper blades please stop by or give us a call at (530) 621-4591.  You can also schedule an appointment online at www.theautoanalyst.com

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: YOUR LIGHTS

This year daylight savings ends on November 4th. 

You need lights to see and be seen, especially when the rain, snow and fog reduce visibility.  Check that all lights are working properly, including marker lights, turn signals, hazard lights, brake lights, backup lights, taillights, headlights, daytime running lights (if equipped), and fog lights (if equipped). 

If you headlight lens look cloudy or don't seem to be as bright as they used to be now would be a great time to have a headlight restoration or replacement performed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your vehicle's lights please give us a call at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

FALL CAR CARE TIPS: YOUR BRAKES

With Fall comes a lot less light and a lot more precipitation so making sure your brakes are working well is extremely important.  If you are experiencing any type of squeaking, grinding, or scratching noise please have your brakes checked immediately.

Even if you are not currently experiencing problems but you have driven 35,000-45,000, you should get your brakes examined to make sure they are working the way they should.

Call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule your brake inspection by one of our ASE Master Technician or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com to schedule online.

GET YOUR VEHICLE READY FOR FALL

The weather will soon be changing, if that time hasn't already arrived.  Driving safely during the next few months requires more than just cautious driver behavior.  Your vehicle also needs some attention.

Here are a few practical tips to help get your vehicle ready for fall.

CHECK THE BRAKES AND TIRES.  Inclement weather and road conditions and other hazards require good stopping power.  That means good brakes and tires.  If the tires have wear bars showing you need to replace them. When was the last time your vehicle's brakes were checked?  If not recently, then make sure to have the brake lining and all components checked ASAP.

CHECK THE LIGHTS.  Walk around the outside of the vehicle and check the operation of all lights: headlights, taillights, parking lights, brake lights and emergency flashers.  Make sure your headlight lens are not foggy causing the headlights to be dim.

REPLACE WIPER BLADES.  The purpose of wiper blades is to completely clear the windshield.  Cracked or worn blades won't do an adequate job.  Check the blade's rubber to ensure it is flexible and operate the wipers to make sure the blades clear the glass.  Replace worn blades.

MAKE SURE HEATER/DEFROSTER WORK.  Driving with an improperly working heater isn't fun or safe.  Neither is driving with fogged-up windows.  Make sure to check both the front and rear defrosters for correct operation.

CHANGE OIL AND AIR FILTER.  If the oil is dirty or you're at your recommended oil change time, change the oil.  Make sure the air filter is clean.

FLUSH COOLING SYSTEM.  It is recommended that your vehicle's cooling system (radiator) is flushed every other year.

CHECK ALL FLUID LEVELS.  Make sure all levels are at or above minimum safe levels including the washer fluid.

Remember The Auto Analyst employs ASE Master Technicians to help you with any of the above or any other automotive needs you may have.  Visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com or we can be reached at (530) 621-4591 Monday thru Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

DOES ANTI FREEZE EVAPORATE?

Your cooling system in your vehicle is a closed system, so coolant cannot evaporate.  If you are having to add coolant to your system, you have a leak somewhere.  Which means that you need to have a cooling system pressure test performed.  This test is usually performed overnight.  Some times leaks do not show up until the vehicle has completely cooled down.

When your engine does not have the proper amount of anti freeze (coolant) in the system it will start to overheat.  Don't let the engine run overheated, or you will likely damage it. 

Remember never remove the radiator cap or open the reservoir when the engine is hot. The fluid inside is under pressure and hot enough to scald you.

When adding anti freeze make sure you check your owner's manual for the correct type for your vehicle.

If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment please give us a call at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com. 

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE

Your car's heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC) keeps your car interior comfortable in any season by providing the right temperature and humidity level.  The HVAC system also helps improve defroster operation.

Proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.  The HVAC system will work as designed if properly serviced.

A thorough inspection of your car's HVAC system should be performed annually.  During this inspection a technician will check all pressures and outlet temperatures and make sure that the system is properly charged.  If the system is found low on a charge, the system will be recharged with the proper amount of refrigerant and dye will be added to the system if a leak is suspected but not detected.

Call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule an appointment to have your car's HVAC system inspected or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.  All of our technicians are ASE Master tech certified.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR TRANSMISSION

WHAT IS IT?

The transmission works with the engine to provide power to your car's wheels.  Whether automatic or manual, the transmission plays a major role in the overall performance of your car.  Make sure to check it at the first sign of problems.

WHAT DOES IT DO?

A transmission/transaxle keeps the engine's output optimally matched to the speed and load conditions.  The several different types of transmission fluid serve multiple purposes: cleans, cools, lubricates, transmits force, transmits pressure, inhibits varnish buildup and continually protects the transmission.

TYPICAL WEAR AND TEAR

Wear and tear on the transmission can be influenced by:

• Driving habits
• Towing or excessive loads
• Operating conditions
• Condition of the transmission fluid
• Frequency of regular maintenance

TRANSMISSION FLUID SERVICE/FLUSH

Recommended every 30,000 miles.  The fluid is constantly working to keep your transmission lubricated and clean.  Over time the fluid and filter (if equipped) gets dirty and needs to be changed.  When was the last time your vehicle's transmission fluid and filter changed?  Call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule an appointment or online at www.theautoanalyst.com.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR WARRANTY

A warranty is basically a promise from the manufacturer to fix certain malfunctions over a set period of time and to pay for the repair and parts needed.

DO YOU HAVE TO GO TO THE DEALER FOR MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS?

No, a dealer cannot deny warranty coverage simply because repair or maintenance work was performed by someone else.  The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), makes it illegal for a dealer to do this.  This allows the vehicle owner to visit the repair shop of their choice or do the work themselves.

WILL DIFFERENT PARTS VOID YOUR WARRANTY?

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act also makes it illegal to deny or void a warranty due to use of an aftermarket part (a part made by a company other than the original equipment manufacturer).

WARRANTY TIPS:

• Familiarize Yourself with the Warranty:  Understand the details of your coverage and be aware of the expiration.  Have problems checked before the warranty expires.
• Regular Vehicle Maintenance:  Regular check-ups will keep your warranty intact.  See your owner's manual or check with your local auto repair shop.
• Know Your Rights:  If you think your warranty claim is denied unfairly, you may wish to file a complaint with your local Department of Consumer Affairs.

To schedule an appointment for any maintenance or repairs please call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.  The Auto Analyst is Your One Stop Auto Repair Shop.

APRIL IS NATIONAL CAR CARE MONTH

April is National Car Care Month!

Why April?

In April, as winter comes to an end, it is time to get your car ready for spring driving and summer road trips! National Car Care Month reminds you to take car of any issues that may have occurred or been ignored during winter.

Spring driving brings its own hazard such as slick, wet roads. It is important to make sure you tires, brakes and windshield wiper are ready for the rain. Spring also means allergy season

Call (530) 621-4591 today to schedule your vehicle's check-up or schedule online at www.theautoanalyst.com.