Car Maintenance – 30-60-90k and When You Get Your Oil Changed

Regular maintenance is the key to keep your car running smoothly. We recommend following a maintenance routine to prevent issues, repairs, and replacements as much as possible. A good maintenance routine will also ensure your car’s longevity, drivability, and safety. One of the most basic things you can do is to check your tires. About once a week will do. The tires determine the mobility of the car, so it’s important to check them from time to time for punctures and foreign objects that may have gotten stuck in the tires. You should also measure the tires’ pressure using a tire pressure gauge. A good tire pressure allows you to use fuel efficiently as well as drive safely and with ease. With car batteries, you may need the help of an auto mechanic from time to time, but there are some simple things you can do yourself to maintain your car batteries. For instance, you can use a wire brush and a paste mix of baking soda and distilled water to clean the battery terminals. This should be done every 6 to 8 months. You can also coat your battery with multi-purpose grease (one that can withstand high temperatures) to prevent it from getting rusty and corroded. Most importantly, you should get your battery inspected every 3,000 miles or so. The car’s fluids— the fuel, engine oil, coolants, and more, are also vital to keeping your car up and running. For instance, the engine oil’s job is to clean, lubricate, and control the engine’s temperature. You can check if there’s too little or too much oil in your engine with the help of the dipstick. Checking regularly will help prevent leaks and engine damage. You should also replace the oil every 3,000 to 6,000 miles (or when the user’s manual recommends it). The next thing to check is the coolant, which consists of a mixture of antifreeze and water. It is one of the most important fluids in your car as it prevents your engine from overheating, and should be replaced every 2-3 years. You should check the coolant levels every two weeks or before a long trip. If you find yourself refilling the coolants quite frequently, consult an auto mechanic as there may be a leak in the coolant system.

For example, Hyundai says the coolant (what many refer to as "antifreeze") in most of its models should be replaced after the first 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles after that. The interval is every 30,000 miles on some Mercedes-Benz models, but on others it's 120,000 miles or 12 years. On still other Mercedes, it's 150,000 miles or 15 years. Some manufacturers recommend changing the coolant more often on vehicles subjected to "severe service," such as frequent towing. The schedule for many Chevrolets, though, is to change it at 150,000 miles regardless of how the vehicle is driven. Read more at https://www.cars.com/articles/how-often-should-i-change-engine-coolant-1420680853669/#f5l1EP7vbRoAVKaG.99

Another thing to check and refill is the brake fluid. Without these, your brakes won’t function. First, locate where the brake fluid is with the help of the user’s manual. If it’s below or at the minimum level as indicated, add brake fluid up until the maximum level. As for the brakes, they should be inspected at least once a year. If they are starting to make squeaking or screeching sounds, it may be a sign that you need to change them. Check out our brake repair service we provide.  Next is the transmission fluid, which helps the gears turn smoothly. This fluid should be checked monthly— if it’s brown and smells burnt, it needs to be replaced already. Keep in mind also that it should never be at the minimum level, as this will cause issues with the gears. Lastly, to keep your steering smooth, check your power steering fluid from time to time. If your car is running low on power steering fluid, you should hear a creaking noise from the steering wheel. All you need to do to check it is to look at the reservoir in the hood. Add power steering fluid as needed. In some cases you may need power steering repair or service, we can help you with that. Most importantly, you should get tune-ups and check-ups for your car regularly. At Mikes Tech Transmission, we check for any problems with your car and ensure that it’s working in top condition, so come check us out!  

The following article Car Maintenance – 30-60-90k and When You Get Your Oil Changed is republished from MikesTechTransmission

Why Use ASE Certified Auto Repair Technicians Like Mike’s Tech?

Car repair shops in Phoenix are all over the place. Each will mention all kinds of reasons to show that you should choose their services. Here at Mike’s Tech Transmission, we can mention many reasons why you should choose us. We can handle just about any kind of auto repair service, from the drivetrain to the electrical systems. One thing that makes us stand out among Phoenix repair shops is the fact that our mechanics are ASE certified. You must be wondering why this certification is a big deal. Here are some reasons why you should choose ASE Certified auto repair technicians like Mike’s Tech to fix your car.  

• Longer experience - Experience is one of the most critical traits that make a competent mechanic. It’s something that’s not gained overnight. ASE puts an emphasis on experience. In fact, for a mechanic to be ASE certified, they must first give evidence that they have at least 2 years of experience in the business. This is on top of a rigorous testing procedure that will evaluate the mechanic’s knowledge on different parts of the automobile. Experience is mandatory to get an ASE license. You are assured that if you encounter ASE auto repair technicians, they are experienced.  

• Up-to-date skill - It is one thing to develop skill as an auto repair technician. It is another thing altogether that their skills are kept up-to-date. The automotive industry is constantly changing, and it is important for all mechanics and technicians to keep up with the latest updates. ASE certification is valid up to 5 years, after which the mechanic should take the test again to stay certified. The logic of temporary certification is for mechanics to stay informed on developments in different areas of auto repair. If a technician is ASE certified, you’ll know right away that their skills are up-to-date.

• Automobiles are increasing in complexity - This is where constant updating plays the biggest role. It is a fact that the cars of today are more complex than the cars of yesteryears. Take for example the ECU computer chip. This chip basically holds the gateway to most of the performance parameters of today’s cars. That’s something that is virtually unheard off a few decades ago. ASE certified auto repair technicians are updated with these changes, meaning they have the requisite knowledge to take on tasks such as this.

• High quality of work - Getting good-quality work on your car is important in so many levels. Not only does it ensure proper resolution of any given mechanical problem, but it also prevents any potential long-term consequence of missing out on specific problems. Aside from the immediate and long-term benefits of proper repair to your car, your finances will also benefit from it. Just imagine this. It is possible that you might pay more cash for repairing a correctly diagnosed problem. However, incorrectly or incompletely fixing an issue may result in more issues, which translates to bigger repair bills.

• Better overall competence - The presence of certifications in general is mainly predicated on setting a standard for competence. There are many ways to keep the competency levels of mechanics and technicians, and ASE certification is one of them. An ASE certificate is good proof of a mechanic’s skill level and experience. For them to get certified, they would have to complete specific years of working experience plus pass a comprehensive exam. It basically ensures that those who get certified are among the best at what they do.

Those are basically the reasons why it is best to get services from ASE certified auto repair technicians. Get serviced by the best auto technicians around at Mike’s Tech Transmission! Additional Auto Repair Services We Provide:

• Alternator Repair
• Alignment
• Brake Repair
• Electrical Repair
• Engine Repair
• Radiator Repair
• Starter Repair

The post Why Use ASE Certified Auto Repair Technicians Like Mike’s Tech? is courtesy of MikesTech

Why Choose Mike’s Tech Transmission for Your Car’s Transmission?

Are You Looking For an Affordable & Quality Transmission Shop?

There are many car service providers in Phoenix, AZ. Each of them has a different promise, a different way to convince motorists to choose them. If you are in need of transmission repair services in Phoenix, you can never go wrong with choosing us here at Mike’s Tech Transmission. There are many reasons why we can confidently say that we are among the best that the city has to offer. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose us for your car’s transmission needs.

1. Strong track record - Mike’s Tech Transmission has been repairing cars in the Arizona area for 15 years. Over that time, we have served more than 30,000 cars, getting them back on the road at the soonest possible time. To be more specific, we have fixed more than 2,000 transmissions. While we have not really invested much on promotions, we let our services do the talking. We must be doing something right, as we are consistently among the most recommended transmission repair shops in the Phoenix area.
2. Commitment to Service - At Mike’s Tech Transmission, we are passionate about making cars run like new again. This is more than a job for us; we want to make sure that all of our clients receive the best service. We are committed to providing the best quality of service; we are able to do this with a combination of excellent workmanship and top-quality customer service. More than fixing their cars, we treat our clients with respect and dignity.
3. Competent mechanics - Employing the right mechanics is at the heart of every repair shop. At Mike’s Tech Transmission, we employ some of the best transmission specialists in the state. All of our mechanics are ASE certified, meaning they are certified to be skilled in their chosen line of work. Beyond certification, our mechanics also have strong attention to detail and commitment to quality of work. They know how to perform all the necessary repairs and when they should be done.
4. High-quality parts - Sourcing the right parts is just as important as getting the right people to get the repairs done correctly. At Mike’s Tech Transmission, we make sure that the parts we use are of the highest quality. We only use OEM parts and parts that are authorized by the NAPA (National Automotive Parts Association). This gives the assurance that all parts have superior quality and durability and will fit seamlessly for the cars they are assembled for.
5. Affordable rates - Transmission repairs are among the most costly ones out there. People usually brace themselves when they hear that any part of their transmission needs to be fixed. At Mike’s Tech Transmission, we offer the most affordable rates in the state for any kind of transmission repair service. Whether you need a regular maintenance check or a full rebuild, you can get the service you need at a fair price. Regardless of the type of car or transmission you have, you’ll get the best prices here.

  At Mike’s, we give an immediate estimate on how much your transmission repair would possibly cost. While it can still change upon inspection, this will give you an idea on how much you’ll possibly spend to have your transmission fixed. After a full evaluation, we can give both a price quote and an estimated timetable on when the service will be completed. If you have any questions or inquiries, we offer appointments and consultations for free! We also offer free towing services anytime should you need to have your car transported to our facility. Those are just some of the reasons why you should choose Mike’s Tech Transmission for your transmission needs. Call us today if you need the best transmission repair services in Phoenix.  

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8 Most Common Auto Repairs

Some of the Most Common Auto Repair Services You Will Need

Owning a car takes dedication— you’ll need to commit yourself to all the work, maintenance, and repairs that come with it to keep it up and running. You’ll have to be prepared to pay for repairs, as you’ll probably be needing to visit the auto mechanic from time to time. That’s why for all you people who plan to get a car (or already have one), we’ve listed the top 8 most common auto repairs you’ll need to do, from the least to greatest average cost.  

8. Fuel cap tightening/replacement – Most of you are probably familiar with the “Tighten fuel cap” or “Check engine” warning message that flashes on the dashboard that indicates a loose or defective fuel cap. Ignoring this problem means you risk the chance of wasting a lot of fuel and money because of leaks. While you can tighten your fuel cap by yourself, in some cases it’s better to take it to the auto mechanic (especially if the message hasn’t disappeared for weeks) to see if it needs replacement— which costs only about $8.

 

7. Coolant temperature sensor replacement – The coolant temperature sensor or CTS is the part responsible for keeping track of the temperature of your engine’s coolant. This is so that the optimum amount of fuel needed can be calculated. The cooler the engine is, the more fuel is required. For your car’s best performance and to prevent any over-fueling, your CTS can be replaced if needed for an average price of $128.

 

6. Ignition coil replacement – The ignition coils convert power from the vehicle’s battery into sparks. These sparks are then used by the spark plugs to generate the energy needed to start up and power the car. Thus, the ignition coil plays a vital role in supplying the energy needed to run your car. Once it’s been diagnosed that the ignition coil needs replacement, you can get it replaced for around $219.

 

5. Oxygen sensor replacement – These sensors alert the computer whenever there is too much or too little gas in the tank. They also indicate the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust. Symptoms that your oxygen sensor needs replacement include higher fuel consumption than usual, poor idle, and the message “check engine” appearing on your dashboard.  A replacement costs about $242.

 

4. Spark Plug Replacement – Spark plugs, as the name suggests, use sparks to ignite the air and fuel mix in the cylinders, thus powering the car. If you’re having trouble with starting your car, it’s probably time to get those spark plugs checked. Replacing them costs an average of $308.

 

3. Intake manifold gasket replacement – This gasket plays another role in powering your vehicle, as it directs the air and fuel mix into its respective cylinders. Thus, you should replace them when they start to show signs of leaking, such as engine misfires and coolant leaks. A replacement will cost you around $329.

 

2. Mass air flow sensor replacement – This sensor measures the amount of air flowing in the engine’s air intake system, which is necessary in determining the delivering the correct fuel mass to the engine. If you are having trouble starting your engine, it might be time to replace your mass air flow sensor. Replacing it will cost about $444.

 

1. Catalytic converter replacement – This is the component of your vehicle responsible for converting toxic or hazardous gas byproducts into less harmful gases. It’s one of the most expensive parts to replace, costing you around $1051.

  Here at Mikes Tech Transmission, we offer you repairs for a wide range of car parts, from brakes to engine repair, alternators and hoses. So next time you’re having trouble with your car, consider going to Mikes Tech Transmission— if there’s a problem, we can solve it.

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Signs ‘n Sounds: When to Get Repairs and Check-Ups

As you might’ve guessed, our tip of the day is to listen to your car for any sounds that seem out of the ordinary. The sounds your car makes can actually tell you a lot of things, mainly whether or not it’s in good shape. It’s a fairly reliable way of determining if you need to get service or repair for your vehicle. Today, we’ll brief you on some of the most common types of sounds your car can make, what part is making it, and what kind of service you should get.   Hissing Sounds from the Engine These sounds often happen during or after driving and are usually indicative of a leak in the cooling system or vacuum hose. If it’s a leak in the vacuum hose then it indicates a damaged engine as well as a decrease in fuel efficiency and ease of driving. If it’s coolant leaking from the cooling system, then you run the risk of overheating and severely damaging your car. It’s better to be sure of you and your car’s safety, so you should get your engine checked soon if you begin hearing these hissing sounds.   Squeaking and Grinding Brakes Conditions such as hard braking, humidity, and dustiness can cause your brakes to squeal, so it shouldn’t be the cause for alarm in most cases. However, they can be a sign that something’s up with your brake pads and rotor. After all, most brakes are designed to make sounds like that as an indication that it needs to be checked and replaced. It is advisable to get your brakes checked and see if you need our brake repair service. Brakes are one of the most important safety components of your car, so you should get them checked if you hear this sound frequently. Grinding or metallic scraping sounds, on the other hand, are a sure sign of aging and brake issues. If you hear these sounds, your brakes and rotors need to be checked and replaced as soon as possible.     Clicking Tires A clicking sound can be caused by several things. It could be a sign that something is stuck in your tire. Unless the foreign object is easy to dislodge, you probably shouldn’t take it out on your own. Other options are to change your tires or have the object removed. Clicking sounds can also point towards a problem with the axles or the axle’s joints— mainly, the universal joints and CV (constant velocity) joints. Your wheels won’t function well if there is a failure in any of the two joints, and replacement of joints will be needed.   Noises Under the Hood Clicking noises under the car shouldn’t be a cause for concern at all, and can be easily stopped by using motor oil on the engine. On the other hand, a rattling noise can be caused by loose parts such as heat shields, hangers, and mufflers, and calls for a repair. It can also indicate problems with your catalytic converter, which may require replacement. Next up are clattering sounds. These can mean that the engine’s valves are loose, or indicate the need for an oil change. A flapping or squealing sound may tell you that your serpentine belt is falling apart and needs immediate repair or replacement. Bubbling noises mean there is air trapped inside the vehicle’s fluids, most commonly the coolant. It can also mean you are running low on the said coolant due to leaking, causing more air bubbles to form. This may cause your car to overheat, so you should get it repaired as soon as possible. It’s a good practice to listen carefully if your car makes any of these noises, for your own safety and your vehicle’s health. So the next time you hear a clunk, clatter, or rattle, you can consult Mikes Tech Transmission for your auto repair needs.  

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How to Find a Good Auto Repair Shop

"How do I find a good auto repair shop?" It's a universal concern, and is something drivers around the country ask. It can be unsettling having to take your car in for repairs when you are unsure of what is wrong, how much it will cost to get fixed or the reputation of the repair shop. No one wants to pay for repairs that don't solve the problem, or worse, pay for something they don't need. Below are some best practices to follow and the certifications to look for to help you find a reputable auto repair shop.

Shop for a repair shop before you need one
It sounds simple, but most people do not look for one until it's necessary. This often results in someone being forced to use a shop closest to where their car breaks down, as they do not have a better alternative. Some questions to consider are whether they guarantee their work, if their training is up-to-date and if they have a loaner/shuttle service available.

Ask if they are members of an association or certified
When looking for a repair shop ask if they are members of associations such as AAA, NAPA Autocare, Automotive Service Association, or TechNet Professional Services. A repair shop has to meet specific criteria as it relates to customer satisfaction, their estimates for work, the work performed and even how nice or clean their waiting area is to become a member in these types of associations. You should also check out the waiting room/service area for technician certificates from companies like The Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), AC Delco and manufacturers such as Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Nissan, etc.

Can they provide customer references?
In addition to asking the shop for references, you can ask people in the waiting room why they chose to get their car repaired there. It's always good to hear from repeat customers, as that usually means they are satisfied by the work performed by the shop. "They do great work," "Their prices are fair," or "They guarantee their work," or something along those lines is what you should hear for responses. If the best responses they can provide are "They are the cheapest" or "They have a lot of coupons or sales," you might want to reconsider the shop.

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