How to Get Rid of Rats/Mice in Cars

The rainy season is making the rats and mice seek dry warm areas such as your vehicle's engine.  Over the past years we have seen a lot of damage caused by these little but sometimes big creatures costing our clients hundreds of dollars if not dealt with.  Most of the time you do not even know you have a problem until you go out to your vehicle and it won't start or a check engine light is on.

I have done a little research for those of you who do not wish to call an exterminator, use poison, or place traps yourself.  Here are some other ways that could possibly help with keeping them out of our engine:

1. Place peppermint essential oil (not extract) drop around your engine.
2. Place moth balls directly under your car to create an offensive odor.
3. Place rubber snakes underneath you car.  They are fearful of snakes and will usually steer clear. Change out the snakes every few days or weeks to keep the rodents from growing accustomed to them.  Coat the snakes in peppermint essential oil for an added deterrent.

Hope the above information helps. Remember getting rid of the pesky rodents isn't easy and will take some time.  It's important to deal with the problem as soon as possible, since replacing parts can get very expensive.

If you have any questions please give The Auto Analyst, your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, at call at (530) 621-4591 or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

THE HIDDEN FILTER

Most of you know about oil, fuel, and air filters, but you may not be aware of a fourth filter in your vehicle that's responsible for cleaning the air you breathe - the cabin air filter.

Suffer from allergies?  Then a quality cabin air filter is an essential feature.  The cabin air filter prevents dust, pollen and other contaminants from entering the passenger compartment.  Many have the ability to trap odors, an additional advantage.

The cabin air filter also provides protection for the air conditioning evaporator inside the vehicle's HVAC system.  This environment is perfect for mold and mildew growth.  An accumulation of mold and mildew can produce unpleasant odors and the formation of irritating and toxic spores.

Besides the health benefits of changing your cabin air filter, there are performance benefits as well.  A plugged cabin air filter can restrict airflow through the heater, defroster, and air conditioner.

Cabin air filters typically have a service life of two to three years, or 20,000 to 30,000 miles, but actual service life will depend on driving conditions.  Odor-absorbing cabin air filters with activated charcoal are good for about 12 to 14 months, or 15,000 miles, so annual replacement is recommended.

Give your local Placerville one stop auto repair shop, The Auto Analyst, today to schedule to have your vehicle's cabin air filter replaced (530) 621-4591 or schedule online at theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE - Why does it matter?

The improvement in vehicle reliability has lulled many vehicle owners into a comfortable complacency.  Most think of their vehicle only as a way of transportation.  Just add the gas and go onto their destination.  Even though most parts have been redesigned and tend to last longer does not mean they will never wear out or prematurely fail.  Nothing is forever.   Regular vehicle maintenance has been proven to extend the life of the vehicle, as well as save money by preventing catastrophic failures caused by neglected service.  Your vehicle is an extremely important asset not only does it get to the grocery store, soccer games, etc it gets you to work so you are allowed to make the money for you to do all the things that you enjoy.

It's time for you to get in the driver's seat when it comes to your vehicle's maintenance...do not opt for service only when something starts smoking, screeching or rattling.  Instead, make a commitment to talk with us here at The Auto Analyst about setting up a vehicle maintenance schedule to keep your car performing at its best for as long as you own your automobile.  Think of regular maintenance checkups as the equivalent of going to your doctor for a year exam rather than waiting for something serious to head to the emergency room.

To schedule your consultation please call The Auto Analyst, your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, at 530-621-4591 or online at www.theautoanalyst.com.  

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE ~ THE BEST INSURANCE YOU CAN HAVE!!

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #8

Maintain the engine oil.  For engine protection throughout the year, change the oil and oil filter at the intervals recommended by your car's manufacturer.  Always use an oil that meets the requirements of your vehicle's manufacturer.  To schedule an oil change at your Placerville's one stop auto repair facility, The Auto Analyst, call (530) 621-4591 or online at www.theautoanalyst.com

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #7

GET A BRAKE INSPECTION.  Have the brake system inspected by a certified technician as recommended by your car's manufacturer.  Brake inspection is needed if the fluid level is low or you notice a brake pedal pulsation, steering pull, grinding sound or other unusual noise when braking.  For additional information or to schedule an appointment call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website at www.theautoanalyst.com.

The Auto Analyst, Placerville's one stop auto repair shop.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIPS #6

Inspect your lights.  Visibility is increasingly important in the dark winter months.  Inspect all lights and bulbs and replace any that are burned out.  Clean road grime or clouding from all lenses.  Badly weathered plastic headlight lenses can be restored by professional services or using do-it-yourself kits available at auto parts stores.

If you would like to schedule an appointment to have your headlight lenses restored please call The Auto Analyst, your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, at 530-621-4591 or schedule online at www.theautoanalyst.com.

VEHICLE PREPARATION AND WINTER DRIVING TIP #5

Always keep an emergency kit handy.  Carry an emergency kit equipped for winter weather.  The kit should include:

• Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats
• Snow shovel
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Window washer solvent
• Ice scraper
• Cloth or roll of paper towels
• Jumper cables
• Gloves, hats and blankets, enough for everyone who may ride in your car
• Warning devices (flares or triangles)
• Drinking water
• Non-perishable snacks (energy or granola bars)
• Extra clothes
• First-aid kit
• Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
• Mobile phone and car charger with important numbers programmed in it, including a roadside assistance provider

Your Placerville one stop auto repair shop, The Auto Analyst, wants all to be safe on the roads this winter.  If you would like to have your vehicle inspected before any trip please call (530) 621-4591 or visit our website www.theautoanalyst.com.