Benefits of Paintless Dent Repair Vs Traditional Paint and Body Shops

Advantages of Paintless Dent Removal

Whether you're looking to save time and money or you simply want to make a more educated choice when it comes to your vehicle, there are many reasons why paintless dent removal has become the preferred choice for dent repair.

o Retain the car's value. Car panels that have been repaired using traditional body shop work almost always contain body filler and auto paint. These are more detectable to the eye and also detract from the overall value of the car, since you are no longer working with the original exterior. Even if you can't see the work, the addition of these materials means that your car is worth less in the long run. Paintless dent repair relies only on the expertise of the professional and gentle dent removal tools, leaving your car worth more when it comes time to trade it in or sell it.

o Make an eco-friendly choice. When you opt for paintless dent removal, you almost never have to use auto paint or other costly and environmentally-hazardous materials. Traditional paint and body shops rely on chemicals in the form of basecoats, clearcoats, auto paint, body filler, and paint thinners to repair the dents in a vehicle. Paintless dent repair works by massaging the metal of your car and returning it to its original shape without the need for added materials. From start to finish, there are no chemicals released into the air or put into landfills.

o Keep overall costs low. Because you don't have to pay for the auto paint or body filler materials - or the manpower involved in using these typically labor-intensive substances - the costs of paintless dent removal are low in comparison to the work you get from traditional paint and body shops. In most cases, you end up paying around 50 percent less than traditional body repair work.

o Save time. Many paintless dent repair services are mobile, meaning that the company comes to your residence, office, or business to do the repairs - getting your car back on the road within a few hours and offering virtually no inconvenience. Due to the materials they use and the time-intensive repairs, traditional body and paint shops cannot offer this option. In fact, you may end up having to leave your car at a traditional shop for several days before it is ready to go.

Getting your car picture perfect and back on the road has never been easier. From mobile services and ecologically-friendly materials to lowered inconvenience and an increase in your vehicle's value, the reasons why paintless dent repair has become the most popular dent removal choice are clear.

How To Use Car Scanners

Even if you have the most expensive brands of cars like Ford or Toyota, problems can still occur. Solutions for vehicle problems can come in the form of a car scanner. This is a widening trend in automotive technology that makes it easier to deal with any problems drivers occur. A scanner is simply a device that checks your vehicle for small problems before they become bigger. The warning light indicates whether your automobile has issues that need to be fixed soon.

Cars made after 1996 have built-in car diagnostic software, which keeps them running without any glitches. Today, car makers have developed the onboard diagnostic system or the OBD. The latest version of this technology is the OBD-II. It is extremely handy for car owners and drivers who want to monitor the condition of their automobiles. The OBD-II comes with sensors and ports distributed in key points of your vehicle. A port can be seen under the dash or under the driver's seat. Ports in different sections of the car all together monitor its condition. This means that the car diagnostic tool has pieces spread throughout your automobile.

Much of the automobile diagnosis is on the condition of the engine, although the frame may also have sensors. A sensor would keep data of the functionality of the part it is in. The data are in a form of codes that can be downloaded by a mechanic during the inspection. Once downloaded, the codes can be translated to determine what is wrong with a specific part of a vehicle. Therefore, diagnostic software in your car is not enough. It should come with an auto-scan tool that will read the data given by the diagnostic software. This tool is called an OBD-II scanner or simply a car code reader. An owner can purchase this tool to determine the issues of his or her vehicle. This is preferable to going to a mechanic, whose analysis may cost a lot.

If you want to do your own car diagnosis, you need to have a computer, jack cables, port connector, car code reader (OBD-II scanner), and a list of codes and acronyms for your automobile. Here is the process:

1. Install the software. Since scanners should be read on a computer, the software tool should be installed on your PC first. If you are using an iPhone, note that only certain diagnostic tools may work with an iPhone. The scanner system comes with the software that you need to install to be able to read the codes provided by the diagnostic tool.

2. Look for the port to attach the scanner to. It can be found on the dash, as that is where it is located. You may refer to the manual if you cannot find the port.

3. The scanner tool comes with instructions on getting a reading. If you do the process right, you should see the codes on your computer screen. Look at the code translation sheet to figure out why your car is having a glitch. If the problem is simple, you probably would be able to fix it without having to go and have an expensive visit to the mechanic.

The Well-Educated Mechanic

Everyone is familiar with the clich矇: the mechanic as a blue-collar worker who lacks sophistication but is a wizard under the hood of your car. But the automotive serviceman didn't inherit his expertise through any special, secret guild. Anybody can become a mechanic with the proper training and experience. The first thing an aspiring mechanic must know is how to choose the best auto body school. So what are the key factors in making this decision?

Any career training should provide the student with a combination of class room theory and hands-on training. This is especially true for an auto mechanic training school. A great program educates the aspiring mechanic on the fundamental construction and operation of engines and cars. Even if you plan on only repairing cars and not actually building or designing them, a well-rounded mechanic should be equipped with a broad, general knowledge of the basic engineering of a car's parts, how they fit together, and how they operate as a whole. This begins just as much in the classroom as it does in the garage.

Along with the theoretical side, great mechanic colleges immerse the student in as much actual shop experience as possible. Becoming a mechanic means using your hands just as much as your brain, so the more hands-on training the better. A great auto technician program will have you getting your hands dirty under the hood at every opportunity. Real cars and real engine troubles all add up to a real well-rounded education in auto mechanics.

Not everyone has the time to commit to full time training to become a mechanic. Find out if the school you are considering accommodates both full-time day classes as well as part-time evening courses. Another important thing to research when choosing a school is class sizes. Because auto technician training is such a practical, hands-on experience, smaller class sizes mean more individual experience working on cars. Smaller classes also allow each student more time with experienced, professional instructors.

There's no longer any reason to be intimidated by the specialized knowledge and experience that auto mechanics possess. A career as an auto mechanic is attainable for anyone ready to study, practice and commit to the career. A great auto body school doesn't just show the future mechanic how to make repairs, but provides the student with a full education of the automotive servicing industry.

So throw away your preconceptions that what's under the hood of your car is a mysterious place, full of inscrutable parts and complicated functions. becoming a mechanic is truly a skilled and honorable trade that requires knowledge, know-how and of course, a special love for helping people get back on the road. But before shifting into high-gear, a great education will give you the keys to put you in the driver's seat.

Car Detailing Tips - Using Car Touch-Up Paint For Minor Repairs

Driving around with your shiny and slick car brings about a feeling of great achievement. If the vehicle is new, you will find yourself taking extra care to ensure that it remains looking like it was just driven off the car lot. However, no matter how careful one is, there is bound to be a time that the vehicle will have a scratch or dent due to some accident or negligence. Such an event, especially when it occurs to a new car, can be very distressing.

The thought of taking the car to a repair shop is not exciting due to the amount of money you'll probably have to pay. However, don't fret; you may be able to repair small scratches and blemishes satisfactorily yourself at a minimal cost.

While doing it yourself is convenient, there are trade-offs to going this route. It's likely the paint won't quite match the original color of the car and it won't lay level or flat with the paint in the surrounding area. If your car is dented or has large areas that need repair, it's best to leave it to professional body shops to do the work.

However, if you are bound and determined to move ahead, then use these tips to help you do the best touch up paint job possible:

• If possible, get the touch up paint from your car manufacturer's dealer. This way, you can get the closest possible match to your car's paint color.



• For successful application of touch up paint, you need to have a steady hand. This is necessary because the spots that usually require repair are small.



• Compared to solid or opaque colored paint, metallic paint separates, leaving you with poor results.



• Many touch up paint kits will come with unnecessary extras, like a separate clear coat paint. While clear coats are available to add protection to your paint job, often, they look messy and too thick to blend in well with the surrounding paint.



• Sanding paper and cleaning solvents to prep the area beforehand aren't required.



• After the paint has dried, you may decide to do color sanding. However, this requires skill and a high speed buffer. I do not recommend this for the beginner and expert advice or service is required.



• Though most touch up paints come with a brush or a tip for easy application, use of a toothpick for really precise results is an option.

Do-it-yourself paint touch-up may be more affordable than hiring a professional. However, like most things, the results may not live up to your expectations. Consider all of your options before jumping in with repairing your car's paint job.

Vehicle Repair History - Tips For Checking Before You Buy

Unless you yourself have been making repairs on the car you are about to buy, which is highly unlikely, you must get an accurate, reliable vehicle repair history before you buy. By simply viewing a used car and even by test driving the vehicle for a short distance, you may be falling prey to a less than honest car seller who has spent a small amount of money covering up damage in order to make you spend a large amount of money on the car.

Sometimes, even mechanics can't ascertain a lot of the potential troubles a car may have with a cursory examination - and in some cases, when the value of the car is not overly high, a detailed exam by a qualified mechanic may just be too costly. The only true protection a used car buyer can count on is the vehicle repair history available from any of several different places. On the internet there are a variety of choices - search for vehicle history report and see who pops up high on the list.

Know that there are choices for the type of information you can access about a vehicle's repair history. You can perform a complete vehicle history report which is highly recommended before you buy any used car but you can also request information on an auto's safety ratings, common trouble spots with any model of car currently available, average repair costs for your car and a comprehensive accident, repair and odometer history.

If you don't want to pay for a complete history, use your instinct. For instance, if the mileage seems terribly low given the age of the car, do an odometer check to see if the car's odometer has been replaced or altered by an unscrupulous seller. You can only protect yourself if you are willing to do the investigating necessary to be safe.

Auto Sales College Can Lead to Automotive Careers

With 21,673,403 licenced drivers in Canada, and 29,055,303 vehicles registered to share between them, automotive careers are some of the most reliable in the country, and as the number suggests, drivers are more than happy to own multiple cars, trucks and vehicles. A good match for this sort of program is charismatic and helpful, with an interest in vehicles, but the often large sales commissions sales people can make in this field provides another attractive bonus, as well as the potential to apply your skills in other industries.

What is an auto sales college?

Often attached to a general automotive training facility, an auto sales college trains students in both the skills of a good sales person, and the general functioning of automobiles. Students will also learn the regulations and licencing involved with transfer of ownership of vehicles, including their responsibilities as part of a dealership. They will also have a chance to look into other training offered at their institution, which may vary from auto technician to dispatcher courses and give them a broader understanding of the auto industry.

What sales skills will graduates learn?

Despite (or perhaps because) of stereotypes about automotive salespeople, the attitude car buyers look for is patience and a willingness to explain and answer questions accurately. Because of this, an important part of training will focus on the ins and outs, from axel suspension to hubcap, and good programs will have vendor neutral, universal applicability. This means that they will not focus on one particular make, model or brand. Thus, graduates from an auto sales college, perhaps with a little extra training, should feel prepared to talk about anything from vintage automobiles to the latest innovations on fuel cell and electric cars.

Other skills are more universally transferable. Skills of a good sales person include active listening, recognizing the needs of a customer and making confident pitches, always applicable regardless of the product that needs to be moved, as well as being interchangeable with the skills needed for good customer service as well as in automotive careers. This is also the case with another skill particular to large scale purchases like cars, the ability to form lasting customer relationships that can lead to decades of business.

However, even though communities of all sizes will have at least one auto dealership servicing the area, job hunting can be hard for everyone. One other hidden benefit of enrolling in an auto sales college is access to students in other programs for networking purposes. Dealerships often offer multiple services other than sales, which means employing a whole host of different specialties, from the receptionist to the technicians repairing and servicing customer purchases, but even people studying to work outside auto dealerships can provide valuable job leads. For example making friends with someone taking dispatcher courses could lead to a career selling heavy weight trucks, or in commercial shipping. With all these advantages, graduates should have and easy time finding jobs.

Auto Dent Repair - What You Need to Know

If your car got damaged recently, following a small 'crash' or something of that nature, then you could find yourself drawn to learn more about auto dent repair.

The specific procedures that are involved in car dent repair can be seen as falling into two major categories. The first category is that of the so-called paint-less repairs; with the second being that of the so-called paint restoration repairs. The former, that is, paint-less repairs, usually come in handy where we are looking at minor damage; with the latter (paint restoration repair) coming in handy where the damage is quite extensive. Of course, where the damage is 'very extensive,' it may be beyond what paint restoration car dent repair can rectify, and the only remedy in such cases that auto dent repair can't handle is usually to (completely) replace the damaged parts. The replacement should be easy for vehicles that are still in production; but for antique cars and other vehicles which have gone out of production, getting the ideal replacement can be a real headache.

The cost of car dent repair, in turn, depends on among other things how huge a dent we are looking at, the kind of vehicle we are looking at (like how 'delicate' it is), and the people you choose to partner with as service providers. Regarding how long the repair should take, the answer is that it can take as little as a day, or as long as a month. Exactly how long the repair takes depends on among other things, how skilled the person undertaking it is, how dedicated to that specific project they are, how bad the damage is...and such other factors which you should be aware of.

It helps for you to undertake some research, and establish baseline cost estimates, before starting to shop for car dent repair services. This is especially the case if you don't want to be fleeced. A good place to start is on the Internet, though you may never get a tangible estimate (quotation) until you get to speak to a professional in the field. Another step you can take to avoid being fleeced when shopping for auto dent repair services is to ask for breakdowns as to how the total figure that is quoted to you is arrived at.

In addition to undertaking it following an accident, another situation where car dent repair services would come in handy is in anticipation of a car sale; where ironing out the small dents that the car inevitably accumulates over its lifetime can considerably increase its resale value.

Buy Tires For Your SUV That Work Best In The Rain

If you want to buy tires for your SUV, you should carefully evaluate the type of terrain where you commonly drive your vehicle. Doing this will help you to choose the right tires for your SUV. If you want to buy tires for your SUV for rainy weather conditions, you should choose ones that will enhance both your driving and traveling experience. In addition, the tires that you choose should also help make sure that your car is safe to drive.

There are 2 types of SUV tires available in the market today specifically winter tires and summer tires. Depending on where you live in, you need to choose the tires that you're going to buy accordingly.

Let's have a look at the best tires to choose for rainy weather conditions. When you buy tires designed for rainy weather conditions, you should choose ones that are made with deep grooves at the middle. In addition, the tires that you buy should also have a tread wear rating of 85. This makes it suitable in handling off road conditions better. Tires that are made with these characteristics have the ability to maintain a good grip on the road in wet conditions.

General Grabber HTS

This is known as the best tire for rainy conditions. General Grabber HTS tires have the ability to handle wet conditions while ensuring that you get a quiet ride on your car. Even though these tires fail when it comes to the "all terrain" category, they work perfectly in snow, off road, and wet conditions. The rolling resistance, traction, noise factor, and comfort of these tires have really good ratings in customer reviews.

Firestone Destination M/T

In SUV tire reviews, these tires have received really good ratings. They work great in wet conditions as well as in off road terrains. They are oversized. This characteristic gives them the stability that's needed on slippery conditions. The best feature of Firestone Destination M/T tires is that you can use them conveniently on both well paved roads and muddy roads. If you drive your SUV on off road conditions on a regular basis, then you're going to realize that these tires have the ability to fling mud from their treads while giving good traction on slippery roads. You can easily use these tires on terrains with big and sharp rocks without worries.

Pirelli Scorpion

If you want to get tires that work best on snow and rain, then these tires should be your top choice. They are known as one of the best SUV tires for rain because they provide a smooth driving experience during the wet months. The tread of this tire gives it its good abilities. Pirelli Scorpion tires are made with a specific number of grooves that allow for easy flow of water from its contact patches. Because of this characteristic, chances of hydroplaning are reduced to a huge extent.

The Driver's Guide to Auto Repair Shop Shenanigans

People enjoy taking their vehicles to the auto repair shop as much as they enjoy visiting their dentists. That is, they dread doing so. Not only is it inconvenient, but the repair bill is a mystery to most drivers because they're uncertain regarding what needs to be fixed. Worse, few people can tell whether the mechanics are giving them a fair deal.

Unfortunately, when parts start failing due to wear or other factors, they need to be replaced. Likewise, when various systems (e.g. brakes, exhaust, fuel, etc.) begin to show signs of trouble, they need to be inspected. The problem is, many garages are less than trustworthy. We'll explore some of the shenanigans pulled by repair garages below. The following may encourage you to buy auto parts online and learn to install them yourself.

Why Labor Is So Expensive

It's rarely the cost of the parts that sends the bill through the roof. It's the labor. Mechanics will normally charge between $50 and $80 per hour (and more for specialty cars). The reason for the high hourly rate is due to the cost of maintaining the facility, tools, and paying wages, taxes, and insurance.

That said, a lot of garages will over-bill on the labor, knowing the customer will never know the difference. For example, if you need your alternator replaced, do you know how long the job should require to perform? Most people don't. So, the repair shop will bill the customer for two or three hours even if the job takes an hour and a half.

Paying The Flat Rate

A lot of people are unaware that repair shops use manuals that are provided by the automakers to determine how long each job will take. Initially, you might think that works in your favor. It's difficult to justify a bill based on four hours of labor when the manual lists the job at two hours. However, it can just as easily work in the garage's favor.

For example, suppose your catalytic converter is failing, so you drive your vehicle to your local mechanic. The manual for your make and model lists the job at two hours. Further suppose the technician is able to replace the catalytic converter in one hour. Even though it's arguably unfair, you'll still be charged for two hours of labor. The extra billable time is pure profit for the shop.

When The Work Isn't Performed

This problem is especially challenging because most people lack the skills or knowledge to know whether a particular task has been performed. For example, if you instruct your mechanic to swap out your failing fuel pump with a new OEM replacement, will you know whether the pump is new? Or, could your auto technician put in a badly-designed rebuilt without your knowledge? In most vehicles, this component is installed within the gas tank, so it's difficult to visually inspect the work.

This is an area in which trust plays a critical role. You should be able to take your vehicle to a mechanic who is experienced and willing to treat you fairly. Of course, the best time to begin looking for an honest repair shop is before your car breaks down.

Learning To Fix Your Car On Your Own

Most people are unwilling to lift the hood of their vehicle and get their hands dirty replacing or cleaning parts. Instead, they rely on their local mechanic. The irony is that a little automotive knowledge and a few tools is enough to replace hoses, plugs, and simple components without the help of a technician. It's also far less expensive.

Here's the takeaway: if you intend to continue having mechanics perform all of the maintenance and repair work on your vehicle, find someone you can trust. In the meantime, consider buying your auto parts online and learning how to install them on your own.

Salvage Cars Significance in Automobile Industry

The business of salvage cars and the parts of such cars contribute to a major part of automotive/automobile industry in the US economy. It has provided jobs for thousands of people not only in US but elsewhere in the world. There are uncountable companies today which make their livelihood out of this business. In this article we will see the practical aspects of salvage car business, precautions to be taken while buying such cars and factors that affect the resale value of such cars.

The salvage titled car is one which faces damage in many ways like a natural calamity like flood or earthquake and mainly by a road accident. Such cars are usually rated with a very less value or even of no value by the insurance companies in the US. The factors that affect this value are the current value of the same car in the market. If the expenditure to repair the damaged car is more than half of its current price, it will be declared as salvage motor.

Then how do such cars get buyers? And how did this salvage business flourish?

Over the period of a decade these cars managed to get a good number of buyers, so much so that the business expanded its reign into the internet world. Not only the auto auctions are held in different parts of the country but also conducted in many websites. The resale value of such cars is individually decided by the buyers but generally, the buyers get carried away with the value declared by the insurance companies.

The reason for this is the extent of damage done to the car. Even after the car is repaired and is ready for use, it is viewed with high suspicions regarding the healthy working of the engine. The buyers generally used to prefer used cars over salvage title cars. Overcoming these hurdles, the automobile auctions performed considerably well in terms of specific salvage cars like Ford and Chevrolet. Sometimes the auto auctions even conduct exclusive ford salvage car auctions and Chevrolet salvage car auctions.

The buyers mainly look at the brand names of automobiles in such cases.

The online presence of this business is through certain websites which allow viewers to actively participate in online auctions and online sale and purchase of repaired cars, damaged cars and salvage title cars. There are two ways of doing this business; one is to buy them and have them in the junkyard. They are also called as Salvage Yards. Owners preserve them in a junkyard and buyers just choose a car of their wish and purchase it. Or even take a few parts from salvage cars and pay only for the parts. This type of business is usually termed as You-Pull-It-Yard. The other way of doing is to buy such cars, repair and sell them or even auction them. There are many companies and individual owners doing this work in their websites.

There are websites which sell reasonably cheap and good salvage cars online; which are mostly privately owned. There are also the US government websites which give information of different used cars like http://www.bar.ca.gov and http://www.vehiclehistory.gov. These are maintained by the government so you need not worry about the duplicate content issues.

As much as it is advantageous and profitable business, certain precautions should be taken while purchasing these cars from dealers. Be careful of fraud dealers who fake the authenticity of the repaired cars. Some tips to value the rates are: find out the exact value assigned by the insurance company of that car before purchasing it, compare the value of salvage car with that of a new car of the same model. By doing this, one will clearly know the genuineness of the proposed rates. Some dealers also include the repair cost into the resale cost. Exclude any such repair costs when you buy salvage cars or salvage auto parts; make sure you clearly have an idea of the market rates of all automobiles.

Find out about more dealers and junkyard from the store locator provided in various websites including the two sites mentioned above.

Avoiding Distractions While On The Road

Driving is an activity that needs not only the proper skills but it also needs the driver to have ultimate and great concentration on the road. Being focused on the activity itself gives the driver and its passengers greater chances of not meeting any kind of mishap, collision, crash, or accident.

Even experienced drivers still meet accidents when they become careless when driving. Try to take your eyes off the road for just a couple of seconds. Doing such greatly increases your chances of meeting a disaster. That is why automobile experts and drivers suggest that the best thing to do would be to avoid distractions at all costs. By avoiding them, you are also keeping yourself safe along with your passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.

Try not to eat in the car. You see, when you are eating while driving, you tend to fumble around for the food. You could drop it or even try to drive using just one hand. Doing these things actually could be the cause of a major problem.

Avoid fiddling around with your car's controls. It could be your radio, your car's heaters, the air conditioner, or its mirrors. Experts suggest that if you would like to change the status of these controls, it would be better if you pulled over first and do the adjustments once you are safe on the side of the road. When everything has already been adjusted as per your preference, then would be the time to go back on the road. You may be wasting some minutes while doing so but remember that you are keeping yourself alive by doing that.

Cellular phones should not be used while driving. If you want to place a call, pull over first. That way, you can concentrate on dialing the right numbers and listening well on the conversation.

Auto Repair Yourself - Fix Your Vehicles at Home For Less

Every time something goes wrong with your car, you have to take it in to the shop. With every repair, comes that hefty repair bill. As you look at the bill, you cannot imagine why it costs so much to fix your car. You think of how much money you could save if you could do auto repair yourself. However, like most people, you do not have a clue how to repair cars. However, you should be aware that there are many ways you can learn auto repair and can end up saving yourself quite a bit of money.

Friends and Family

If you have any friends and family that are knowledgeable about auto repairs, you should consult them and ask if they can help you learn some auto repair basics. If you have friends or family that are kind enough to help you learn how to repair your car, make sure that you give them something back for helping you. Perhaps there is something you can teach them, or maybe just take them out for a dinner.

Books

You can find tons of books dedicated to auto repair. These books will cover everything from the basics to more complex issues. You can find auto repair books at the local book store, at auto repair shops, or even at the library. If you are looking to buy a repair book, but do not want to spend too much, you should check out a used book store and see what repair books they have available.

If you choose to learn auto repair from a book, you should evaluate your learning process. Some people learn better from books than others. If you have a hard time learning from books, then this may not be the option for you. Also, it is important to know that some books are written better than others. It may be worth asking around and seeing what books are recommended for a beginner.

Internet

The Internet is a great resource to learn auto repair. You can find online repair guides to help you learn how to fix what is wrong with your car. Also, there are several discussion forums where people post tips on auto repair and where you can ask questions about your specific situation.

You can also purchase repair books online. You may find the repair books to be cheaper online than in brick and mortar stores.

Classes

Another option for learning auto repair yourself is to take a class. There are several places you can take an auto repair class. You can take a class from the local college or at a community center. These classes will often be taught in the evening or on weekends to accommodate work schedules.

Get To It

Now that you are aware of some of the ways to learn about auto repair, you should see what option will work best for you. Once you learn more about auto repair and can make repairs by yourself, you can save quite a bit of money for yourself and your family.

Is Your Vehicle Steamed at You?

How much to you know about your vehicle radiator and what it does to keep you cool? First of all, your radiator is located at the front of the engine right behind the grill. The radiator is a type of heat exchanger designed to transfer heat from the hot coolant that flows through it to the air blown through it by the fan. Most modern cars use aluminum radiators. The coolant flows from the inlet to the outlet through many tubes mounted in a parallel arrangement that make up the body of the radiator.

Since the engine works harder than most of the other auto parts, it has a tendency to overheat; therefore, it needs a cooling system that would keep it operating at the right temperature. Even under normal conditions the engine produces an enormous amount of heat. The work of the cooling system is to remove at least one-third of that heat in the combustion chamber so the engine won't overheat. The radiator is the device in the cooling system that dispels the heat absorbed by the anti-freeze or coolant mixture from the engine. It has tubes that hold a large amount of water-coolant mixture and passages that provide large areas in contact with the air outside the vehicle. Water is mixed with the coolant and is circulated around the engine through the cylinder block and head. In the process the water/coolant absorbs the heat from the engine and its parts. The water/coolant is then pumped from the engine towards the receiving tank at the top of the radiator. It spreads over the tops of the tubes and passes through them, thereby, losing its heat to the air which passes around outside the tubes. After getting cool in the radiator, the water/coolant goes back to the engine to absorb heat again and the cooling process continues as long as the engine is running. Without some way to cool off, your engine would turn into a block of useless metal in no time at all.

Most people know the green stuff in the radiator keeps the engine from turning into a block of ice in the winter, but it also helps keep things cool in the summer. Radiator coolant actually raises the boiling point of the water, allowing it to carry more heat away from the engine and that means a cooler running engine. If you are running low on coolant, things can get steamy hot fast. It only takes a second to check your coolant level. Most cars have an opaque coolant overflow tank right next to the radiator. There are markings on the side indicating low and high levels of coolant. Always check your coolant level when the car is cold. If the level is low, it's time to top it off. The engine takes a 50/50 mix of coolant and water. You can measure and mix it yourself or you can buy the premixed coolant that is simply ready to pour.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, cooling system failure is the leading cause of mechanical breakdowns on the highway. Coolant neglect is one of the leading causes of cooling system breakdowns. Most vehicles will lose a little coolant over time due to evaporation from the reservoir. But a significant loss of coolant in a relatively short period of time usually signals a leak, a radiator cap that isn't holding pressure, or a cooling system that is running too hot. It's a good idea to visually inspect the radiator, water pump, hoses, and freeze plugs as well as the rest of the cooling system for external leaks. Hoses that have white streaks on them may be indicating leaks. If no leaks are found, the loss of coolant may be due to long term neglect or a temporary episode of overheating.

Checking the strength of the coolant to determine the concentration of antifreeze in the coolant is just as important for hot weather driving as it is for cold weather. A 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water will provide boiling protection up to about 255 degrees and freezing protection down to -34 degrees. Increasing the concentration of antifreeze in the coolant will raise its boiling temperature and lower its freezing point. The maximum concentration however, should be limited to 65% to 70% because too much antifreeze and not enough water reduces the coolants ability to carry heat - which increases the risk of overheating in hot weather.

Something else to keep in mind is that there are two main antifreezes available, EG (ethylene glycol) and PG (propylene glycol). These have slightly different specific gravities or densities, it is important to be sure the correct type is being used. The main difference between these two is the additive packages. To reduce confusion, several antifreeze suppliers like Peak and Prestone are now selling a universal type of antifreeze that is compatible with all types of antifreeze and all makes and models of vehicles. Some argue this is not entirely true, but the universal type seems to work okay and is widely accepted in the aftermarket. It is important however, to not mix types of antifreeze. If you are adding or changing coolant, it is best to follow the recommendations found in the owner's manual and use the same type of coolant that was in the system.

While coolant is usually the culprit in many radiator problems, there are other things that can go wrong or can plug up the whole works. Radiator problems often start slowly due to clogging from rust and debris. This reduces the radiator's ability to transfer heat and it reduces the effectiveness of the cooling system too. A clean radiator is a cool running radiator. For maintenance, your radiator requires a flush, usually once a year. This flush will clean out the rust and other debris that could create a problem. Remember, dealing with your radiator when your car is running or still warm from running is dangerous due to very hot liquid. Allow your car to cool completely before removing the cap or otherwise touching the radiator.

As with any vehicle maintenance, your radiator maintenance should be up to date and done on schedule. Forgetting or letting it slide till next year might cause you far more headache and cost than simply doing it on time. It's much easier to do the maintenance than to replace the entire radiator or engine of your vehicle. You don't want to be left sitting on the side of the road while your engine takes a steam bath.

Auto Repair Sales - How to Sell $1,000,000 in Service

An auto repair sale is a popular topic with most shop owners. One million dollars seems like a magic number for a lot of shop owners. They're either struggling to hit it, or they've made it and now they want two million or three million. Whatever the goal, fantastic auto repair sales performance is really quite simple (not always easy, but simple). To achieve outstanding auto repair sales performance you have to consistently do four things.

1. Listen carefully to the customer and quickly build rapport and relationship.
2. Ask for the largest possible sale while offering the greatest perceived value.
3. Get the work done. Quickly and correctly.
4. Lock the customer into a long-term relationship with your shop; repeating steps one, two and three at least three times per year.

In step one the key is quickly. To sell one million dollars (or more) in a year, everything is going to have to happen FAST! The rapport building process doesn't have to take a long time. You can build a strong connection with a new client very quickly just by getting them talking about themselves.

Question: So, how long have you lived here?-What kind of work do you do?-How long have you owned the car?-Where's your favorite place to go on vacation?-Tell me about your kids/pets... All these questions get the customer talking about themselves and give you plenty of opportunity to identify and comment on common points of interest or experience. None of this takes more than a few minutes, but during this process the vital process of trust building is occurring.

In step two, the key is asking for the LARGEST possible sale. Fear stops most salespeople from asking for the large sale. Instead they convince themselves that the customer will only accept a much lower figure; a figure that they (the salesperson) are comfortable with. This is why I spend so much time in the Advanced Service Writer Sales Training Class working on the closing question. The closing question is the key to overcoming the fear. With it memorized and practiced the fear subsides and the service writer is able to ask for much bigger sales than ever before. I've seen this tool add more than $300 per RO to a shops RO average. It is that POWERFUL!

The first two steps are pure auto repair sales step. Step three is a management step. The first two steps are all about the service writer controlling their actions. Step three requires them to motivate and lead someone else to action. The best way to do this is MBA "Management By walking Around". It simply means you can't forget about a ticket once it's in the hands of the tech. You have to get out in the shop regularly (usually every 5-10 minutes on a busy day) and make sure that the work is moving forward. You have to quickly remove any obstacles to success such as parts problems, bad attitudes, or unexpected difficulties with the repair. This is a vital and often overlooked part of auto repair sales.

In step four we're back to sales. The biggest missed opportunity in most shops is the opportunity to commit the customer to their next visit while they are checking out from this visit. All you have to do is tell them when their next visit is and most people will say ok. Notice I didn't say ask them when they could make their next visit; I said tell them when their next appointment is. The key is assuming that they are going to return and doing them the favor of scheduling this. I teach several simple techniques in the Advanced Service Writer Sales Training Class that make getting this commitment very easy, simple and natural.

So, there you have it, the four simple (not necessarily easy) steps to selling one million dollars (or more) in service. If you consistently follow these steps the million bucks is yours! An auto repair sale isn't difficult if you know the steps and have the tools.

Top 7 Questions to Ask a Mechanic (Before Letting Them Near Your Car)

Finding the right mechanic can be just as important as finding the right dentist or doctor for your family. There are two main things that every person wants in their mechanic - trust and reliability. What you don't want is someone who will take advantage of you every time they get the chance.

How do you go about finding the right mechanic? First, ask your friends and family members. Is there a local mechanic they've had a good experience with? You could also check review sites like Yelp or CitySearch to see what others have thought about their experience.

After you have it narrowed down to a couple "best options," visit the actual repair shop and meet the mechanic. The questions you should ask fall into two different categories - Quality of Work and Cost. If there are other issues that are important to you, be sure to add them to your list. Here's a closer look:

Quality of Work

Are you ASE (Automobile Service Excellence) Certified?
Any reliable mechanic should have this posted somewhere in their garage. If they don't, don't be afraid to ask. Having an ASE Certificate is one reliable indication of quality service, as it means the business has passed an on-site evaluation of their business practices. If the shop isn't ASE-certified, you may want to consider taking your business elsewhere.

Do you specialize in a certain type of car?
Many times, it's obvious before you go into an auto repair shop what they specialize in, as it may state it on their website - or, it may be displayed on a sign out front. If you're not sure, ask the mechanic. They'll usually do their best to let you know if they specialize in a certain type of vehicle. This will also help you learn the repair shop's strengths and weaknesses.

Are your technicians trained on the latest technology?
To go along with the above question, you may also consider asking about the technicians' qualifications and training. Are the technicians trained on the modern technology that's available in newer cars? Are they informed about the latest innovations and features? Above all, make sure the technicians were trained at a trade school or college, instead of no training at all.

What would you do if it was your car?
This question usually catches mechanics off-guard, but provides a lot of insight into their quality of work. If they were telling you the exact things that needed to be done to your car, there's no problem. If they weren't, this question could fluster them a bit. A good mechanic will tell you the truth the first time around - if something doesn't need to be fixed, they'll be honest.

Cost

How do you charge for repairs?
Asking a few questions up front can help save you quite a bit of money in the long run. Find out if the repair shop will provide you with an itemized estimate before performing the repairs. Another thing to ask is if labor rates are charged a flat fee or per hour basis. Finally, find out if the repair shop provides a courtesy shuttle or rental car if your vehicle is in the shop for an extended period of time - not having this can add quite a bit of money to your repair bill.

If there is a problem with my car, can I choose between new or used parts?
Some auto repair shops have relationships with scrap yards or other used car businesses, so you have the option to choose new or used parts if an issue arises. However, which type you use depends on the situation. If the alternative is a brand-new, expensive piece of machinery, but a used one will work just the same, it's nice to have the option. An honest mechanic will be able to help you decide what's right for your situation.

What are your payment policies and guarantees?
Payment plans, guarantees, and labor rates can vary greatly from place to place, so it's smart to check on this before they do any work. Find out if new and used parts are guaranteed by a warranty and if so, what do the warranty terms say? A six-month warranty is great; 90 days is decent, but if it's any lower than that, you may want to consider another option. You can also check out auto buying guides to see what the industry standard is.

Wintery Weather Keeping Auto Repair Shops Hopping

As the East Coast prepares to get hammered by yet another snowstorm this winter, auto repair shops are gearing up for the next round of heavy business. With heavy snowfalls hitting both the east and west portions of the nation in December, auto body shops have been keeping extra busy this cold weather season.

For instance, Fox 31 News out of Denver, Colorado reported, "Snow, cold great for Front Range auto repair businesses." In the Mile High City, local auto repair shops know to steel themselves for "a steady flow of business" as soon as the temperature starts plummeting. One of the main reasons they're so busy in the winter is that drivers head out with sub-par tires. When snow and ice coat the roadways, poor tire treads tend to cause vehicles to "go spinning out of control and cause accidents."

This same scene was repeating itself across the country in Greenville, North Carolina, where News 14 Carolina reported, "Auto repair shops busy after wintry weather conditions." What types of vehicle damages were they witnessing? Fender benders, spin-outs and multi-car pileups on slippery roadways were leading to plenty of dings and dents. Fortunately, however, most of the necessary car repairs resulting from slick road conditions were light ones. Auto repair technicians point out that this means that such damages can usually be quickly and easily fixed.

One auto body repair expert explained, "People have slid into curbs. So they have damage to their wheels and suspension. They are light repairs and pretty quick and easy for us." But before heading straightaway to a car repair shop, drivers should keep a few things in mind.

1. Realize that you're not the auto body shop's only customer. Yes, the technicians can repair your vehicle quickly and easily, but they may have several clients in front of you. Just as the meteorologists advise practicing patience on the wintery roadways, patience is a virtue in the repair shop as well.


2. Check in with your insurance company before you take your car in for repairs. Chances are the damage will be covered, but you'll want to know what your out-of-pocket expenses will be before you're faced with an unexpected bill. Usually once you meet your deductible (typically $250 or $500), the rest of the repair work is covered in full. Inform your insurance agency of the incident and, and ask them to give you a claim number.


3. In most states, you are not obligated to get multiple estimates before taking your car in for repair. That means you can select the auto body shop of your choosing. If that's the case in your state, select a company that has a reputation for being a leader in quality collision repair.


4. If you're going to require a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired, look for an auto repair shop that has a rental car service on its premises. Such shops can often offer you very competitive discounts on your short-term alternate transportation needs.

Why Mobile Bumper Repair is Better Than Over-the-Counter Auto Body Repair Kits

Anyone who has ever been in an accident or been on the receiving end of a ding on the plastic bumper knows that they can be one of the most difficult parts to repair using over-the-counter auto body repair kits or do-it-yourself techniques.

At first, it seems easy enough. A filler is used to patch any cracks or holes, and you simply allow it to dry, sand it to the right finish, and paint with a carefully-selected matching store-bought paint. Unfortunately, it is rarely this easy. When done professionally, the techniques used in plastic bumper repair are actually a little more detailed - and a lot more focused on creating near-perfect results.

The Real Costs of Plastic Bumper Repair

Most car owners turn to do-it-yourself repair for plastic bumpers because they are hesitant to turn to professional help at traditional body repair shops. It's no small wonder. Most traditional repair shops have a reputation for creating great results at sky-high costs. In many of these types of facilities, bumper repair can cost upwards of $800, which is higher than many insurance deductibles.

In addition to the typical problems with over-the-counter auto body repair kits for plastic bumper repair - including incorrectly applied filler, unmatched paint, and other results that look worse than the dent or scratch itself - it can actually be more expensive to fix a bungled repair job than it would have been to go to one of the expensive body shops in the first place.

The Mobile Bumper Repair Solution

Fortunately, there is an option that falls between these two extremes. Mobile bumper repair specialists, a growing trend in the automotive repair industry, offer quick and professional results at a fraction of the cost of traditional body shops. You get the same finish that comes with the more expensive solution, but with a price tag closer to the higher-end do-it-yourself kits.

Many of these types of facilities are mobile and offer quality guarantees, as well. This means that in addition to getting a professional result that maintains your car's value, you don't have to worry about long waits at the repair shop or the need for a rental car - two more reasons many people turn to self-repairs.

We all know that saving money is important in today's economy. Before you go out and buy an over-the-counter auto body repair kit that may offer only a temporary or sub-par solution, it's best to remember that you can get professional plastic bumper repair at a fraction of the traditional cost.

How to Find the Best Auto Body Shops to Keep Your Vehicle on the Road After an Accident

Your vehicle plays an important role in your life each and every day. Finding the best auto body shops will ensure that your vehicle always gets the repairs it needs to stay on the road.

Having an accident can cause a lot of stress in your life, and one of the most common sources of stress is figuring out the best place to get your car repaired. If you're like most people, you rely on your car each and every day to get back and forth to work or school. If this is the case, you need to know that the repair shop you choose will do a professional job and get your car or truck back out on the road in no time.

Comparing Your Options

Although many people assume that damage done to the body of a vehicle is nothing more than a cosmetic issue, it's very often actually much more than this. Body damage can cause all kinds of other problems with your vehicle, so you need to make sure that you are choosing from among the best auto body shops out there to handle your vehicle's repairs. To choose the best one, you should spend some time comparing options until you find the right professional to give you a job that not only looks great but that also addresses any damage to vital components like your vehicle's frame.

When it comes to auto body repair, you need a professional shop that can make your car look like new. Accidents can cause significant damage that makes many cars almost unrecognizable. Your goal should be to choose a skilled set of professionals who have experience and can guarantee beautiful results. But it's just as important to remember that looks aren't everything! Check on specialized equipment like frame straighteners, and make sure that your vehicle's underlying damage can be repaired properly as well. Before you choose an auto body repair shop, do some research and find out which shops have the best reputations. If your friends or family members have had to get work done in the past, find out who they'd recommend (or who they wouldn't!).

Another one of the most important issues that you will need to consider when comparing autobody shops is price. Body repairs to a vehicle can be quite expensive, and most people who need repairs are on a budget. If you don't want to spend too much of your hard earned money, you should shop around for auto body shops that have reasonable rates. Every shop will have its own way of determining price, so you're likely to find a good deal by shopping around.

Don't Settle

The autobody shop that you choose will make a big difference in what your vehicle looks like when all is said and done. You should never settle for a shop until you have done the research and found a good shop that can give you professional looking results at a great price. Finding the right auto body shop will allow you to get back out on the road all that much sooner. 簫簫

Auto Mechanic College: Get on the Right Path While Still in High School

You've already sent away for brochures for every mechanic college in a hundred mile radius, but you still have a few more years of high school. It's hard to wait, and focus on geography, history, science, etc., when you already know what you would like your career to be. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take while still in high school to prepare for an auto mechanic career.

Choose your part-time job wisely

Because you already know that you are auto-mechanic-college bound, you have an advantage over the average in teen, in that you can tailor your part-time employment to suit your career goals. Why not do a tour of the local garages to see if anyone is hiring? Also consider dealerships and auto parts retailers. Perhaps even a rental or car share company. Early exposure to the milieu can help advance your auto mechanic career more quickly. Just think about it. You will:

- already know people in the industry
- have work experience to add to your first CV after finishing your auto mechanic course
- perhaps even find a mentor, willing to advise you as you pursue your career

Can't find a paid position? Even an unpaid internship in the field could be beneficial for your auto mechanic career.

Take advantage of your high school curriculum

Not all high schools have a shop or course on offer, but most have science, math and computers, all of which will be of great help to you as you progress in your auto mechanic career.

And don't forget extracurricular activities

Your high school may not have a shop class, but it may have some kind of club or organization that caters to mechanically minded students like you, who plan to attend auto mechanic college.

Study your colleges carefully

Since you've known from an early age that you would like to go to a college, you can take the time to really assess each school on your list. Visit the campus, sit in on an auto mechanic course, ask questions... The choice you make can have a lasting impact on your career.

Make sure that you know what the admission requirements are for your desired colleges. Do you need to maintain a certain grade point average? Are you on your way to completing all the required courses? These are the kinds of questions you should be asking now, while college is still a few years away.

Your high school years will offer many opportunities for preparing for an automotive mechanic career, but only if you take the care to nurture your ambitions. Turning dreams into reality takes effort: yours.

Auto Repair: Know The Right Time To Replace You Car's Shocks

Each and every component of your car has a limited service life because wear and tear will eventually take its toll over time. This is especially true for your car's shocks. If you're someone who loves doing auto repair on his own, you need to know the best time to replace the shocks on your car. This is important if you want to maintain or improve the degree of riding control and comfort that your car can offer. Doing timely maintenance and replacement of car parts helps a lot in avoiding any car crisis from developing.

By knowing the best time to replace your car's shocks is a good way to improve your auto repair skills. When your shocks and struts get worn out, it's hard to ignore the problem because you can literally feel its effects especially when you drive over a pothole or a bumpy road. One of the first signs that indicate excessive wear and tear show up when you hit the brakes. When the shock absorber mechanism isn't working, the front of the car dives down when you step on the brakes and when your car accelerates, you will feel the rear end of the car squatting. Your ride becomes very bumpy and the entire car frame will bounce or oscillate up and down after you hit a pothole. When you turn, the car may sway excessively.

If you find leaks on the absorber housing; damaged piston rods; and worn out tires, it's really advisable that you replace both of your shocks and struts. When you see any of the signs that I've stated above, you'll know that it's already time for you to get new sets by visiting an auto repair shop.

Car manuals usually provide information about the best time to get your shock absorbers replaced. In general, the recommended mileage range after which it's advised to get a replacement is 50,000 to 60,000 miles. When you notice the signs that have been discussed above, you should go for a replacement as soon as possible. You can refer to your car's manual for details about the ideal replacement period.

The best way for you to determine whether or not you already need to go for a replacement is by doing an actual inspection. If you spot any sign of wear and tear, you should get replacements as soon as you can unless you love getting roller coaster rides whenever you're driving your car. Getting a replacement won't only give you a better ride but this will also ensure that your tires and drive assembly won't get significantly affected.

Keeping Your Car Super Clean

Having a clean car is an important way to improve your reputation and to make the best first impression on people. In many ways having a clean car is like having a clean home and people will look at your car and then judge how up together and how organized the person is. If you have a very unclean and damaged looking car, then people will automatically think that you don't take care of it, and by extension they will assume you don't take care of yourself, of your home etc. In short this will greatly affect the way other people deal with you. And besides - when you've spent so much on your car, why not look after it and ensure it looks its best?

So how do you keep your car looking the very best it can? Well the answer is of course to get it cleaned regularly and to avoid getting it dirtier than necessary. To achieve the former, and to make sure it doesn't collect dirt you should make sure to get a regular car wash. These tend to be inexpensive and can be found pretty much anywhere, but with a professional car wash you will find your vehicle comes out looking shiny and new without your having to exert yourself at all to accomplish that. At the same time if you take your car to a professional car wash hen you will get a much better level of cleanliness than you could achieve yourself - after all these are professionals with industrial tools and lots of experience whereas you are probably inexperienced and in a hurry to do other things.

At the same time though you can also keep your car cleaner by just avoiding the dirt and mess in the first place. For instance then you should definitely invest in a garage and off road parking. Parking your car outside with no shelter can leave it exposed to bird manure, sap, dirty rain and many other things that will make a mess of it. If you don't have space or the finances to build yourself a garage, then you can always get around this by getting a fabric shelter or a temporary shelter, or even just covering your car up with a tarpaulin on your drive.

Likewise you need to be careful and strategic when you park your car elsewhere and this way you can avoid needing the car wash as often. For instance if you are parking your car on a road side or in a car park, then you should take time to carefully look at what you are parking underneath. For instance if you are parking underneath a big tree then you should expect to find your car covered in leaves and dirt as well as sap and bird droppings. On the other hand if you can park underneath a canopy of some sort then you might be able to protect your car from all sorts of projectiles and hazards. Even parking next to a wall to shelter you from wind can help a lot.

Common Misconceptions About Using the Wrong Fuel

We've all heard the rumours of what can happen if a vehicle is inadvertently filled up with the wrong fuel. Some people say "Your car will be irreparably damaged," while others might report that "It costs a fortune to deal with the problems caused by putting petrol in a diesel engine." Let's take a closer look at some of the most common misconceptions about what can happen if you happen to put the wrong fuel in your vehicle and clear up the facts from the fiction.

Anyone who fills a diesel tank with petrol must be a fool!

If you've just put petrol into your diesel vehicle, you might be feeling a little foolish - don't be so hard on yourself! Statistics show that filling up with the wrong fuel is a mistake that is easy to make, and certainly not a rare occurrence. One of the main causes of using the wrong fuel is simple human error. Everyone gets distracted from time to time, and when this is combined with the fact that petrol pumps are not always labelled as clearly as they might be, then it is easy to make a mistake.

Put the petrol in your diesel vehicle and it will be damaged beyond repair!

If you listen to the many rumours regarding using the wrong fuel, you might well think that filling up with petrol instead of diesel will destroy your vehicle. In fact, providing you are aware that you have used the wrong fuel and take action ASAP to have the fuel tank drained, then it is more than likely that your vehicle will not suffer too much.

Getting a mechanic to drain the fuel tank will cost me a fortune!

If you've put the wrong fuel in your vehicle, you might be worrying about the costs of getting the problem repaired. The current economic situation has meant that we all need to watch the pennies and pounds more closely, and you'll hear rumours that bills for draining out the wrong fuel will run to hundreds. However, if you arrange to have your fuel tank drained as quickly as possible, the costs will be reasonable, and you'll avoid further more expensive damage which can be caused by leaving the incorrect fuel in the system.

If you put petrol in a diesel engine, it won't start.

If you mistakenly put petrol into your diesel vehicle, and don't notice immediately, you'll probably find that your car or van does start but only runs for a short distance and then stops. This occurs because whatever diesel is remaining in the fuel line mixes with the petrol, which allows your engine to function. When the percentage of diesel drops, and your vehicle starts to pull petrol through the system it will stop. Remember, there is no need to panic if you suddenly realise that you've used the wrong fuel, just park the vehicle in a safe place and arrange to have the petrol drained out.

Windshield Chip and Crack Repair and Things You Should Know!

No matter what kind of vehicle we drive electric, hybrid, gas or diesel, road debris will strike our automobiles glass and create damage to the glass. The damage can range from tiny surface cracks to fully cracked out. You should know that windshield breaks the size of a quarter in diameter or smaller under normal circumstances are repairable as are cracks less than twelve inches. Long cracks directly in the drivers view and breaks that crack both the outside and inside layer of glass or penetrate through both the layers, although rare need replacement.

Common breaks such as small cracks, star-breaks or bull's-eye's may have one or more bright glaring silver or dark shadowy lines extending from the impact point when first damaged. Windshield chip and crack repair will remove the air and inject repair resin into the break eliminating most if not all the shadows and bright silver area. After windshield repair is complete the appearance will have improved 85% or better along with the restored structural integrity and safety. Some breaks with small cracks leave small lines or faint outline after the repair. Repaired chips and cracks no longer glare or have that bright silver or dark shadow look. You should know windshield crack repair will stop further cracking, providing a clearer view, restored integrity and safety of the windshield and has a lifetime warranty on the repair.

You should know. Mobile windshield chip and crack repair can save you time and money by repairing your chipped or cracked auto glass. How you ask? By repairing your auto glass when you are at home or at the store, work or even at your lunch hour. Mobile windshield chip and crack repair frees up your time making chip and crack repair more convenient for you.

Windshield chip repair is environmentally friendly as it extends the useful life of the chipped or cracked glass. Keeping millions of windshields out of landfills just by repairing them, how easy and environmentally friendly is that. Automobile chip and crack repair will save you money over windshield replacement and maintains factory windshield and seals. Somewhere around 13 to 14 million replacement windshields, manufactured here or imported into the united states to replace windshields damaged on our cars and trucks every year. Auto glass construction consists of Laminated glass, two separate pieces of glass bonded together into one to create safety glass.

Our windshields keep us safe, the primary purpose of safety auto glass is to cut flying glass on severe impacts and to prevent passengers or driver from ejection of the vehicle in a collision. Windshields are secured to the vehicle body with high-strength urethane or other approved adhesives. These adhesives are strong and will hold the windshield in place in an accident for your protection.

Insurance repair coverage. You should know how you could have your windshield repaired at no cost to you and here's how to do it. Almost all automobile owners have comprehensive coverage through their auto insurance policies, and with most deductibles ranging between $60 to $1000. If you decide to have your windshield repaired instead of replaced very often your insurance company may waive the deductible and pay for the entire cost of the windshield chip or crack repair. Call your insurance carrier and ask if your policy covers windshield rock chips or cracks. you should know that If your insurance covers windshield repairs, you have the right to choose any windshield chip repair company you wish and your insurance covers the repair. You should know that windshield repair saves you time, trouble and money by avoiding costly windshield replacement. You should also know that windshields at this time are not recycled. Repair will keep your windshield out of the landfill for an extended time. Windshield repair when possible is the green choice.

Collision Blast - New Ways For Collision Repair Training to Blast Your Way

Life Without Internet
Can you imagine life without the internet? How would businesses operate and maintain business? It's kind of scary how much we depend on the World Wide Web. However, the changes are improving our business everyday, especially the way we are able to teach and train.

Training Anywhere
The collision repair industry, as well as all other industries have always had to rely on traveling for training. Now with the technology we have available, employees can receive top notch training without ever leaving the body shop or dealership. Attendees can interact by asking questions and watch live demonstrations right in their shop conference room.

Skype Me
One of my previous co-workers called me the other day and was telling me how many of the auto technicians have a Skype line to ask questions and communicate with each other. Wow, that is instant access. I thought Google was fast, but a tech line that you can interact with at. Now this is another changer in business, training, or education.

Online
I-CAR realized the need for online training as well. On their website they have online training available. The technician can access this training 24/7, which makes it very convenient. I-CAR also allows the technicians to work at their own pace. I believe that they allow 30 days to complete the training and pass the tests. However, once you purchase the training you will be able to access the training at any time to refresh your training at a later time.

Virtual
With online technology, I foresee a lot more opportunities for training online. For example, I was on a committee for the college that I work for to examine a virtual world called second life. From a college's standpoint, this method made sense to me. This allows students to virtually travel to the college and sit in on lectures rather than actually driving to the school and attending the class face-to-face. In the virtual classroom the student is there along with other students and a teacher. Everyone can interact just as they would be able face-to-face. So how do you think this would work for collision repair training? I have to agree, it is quite different. However, times are changing fast and we better hop on board or be left behind.

Jump Aboard
With all of this said, I don't think we can hang our hat on the internet going away. What if something happens to the internet...? Well, we'll have to deal with that then. For now we need to look for more and new ways to blast collision repair training to the industry.

by Donnie Smith

How to Avoid Car Repair Disasters

One of the main reasons people complain about car repair companies is that what they thought would be a very cheap repair ends up costing much more than advertised, or taking longer than expected. In most cases, this can be avoided by choosing the right car repair company and ensuring that all the work done is documented and agreed before anything is done to your car.

Let's start with selecting a car repair company. Unless you are in an emergency situation, like your car engine giving up in the middle of a road trip, chances are you have plenty of time to choose a good and legitimate mechanic professional to call on when needed. It's always better to ask for referrals, as few people would recommend a mechanic they didn't have a very good experience with.

Consider also your car, especially if it's an expensive or uncommon model. In some cases you may want to talk with the car manufacturer or the car dealership and see if they can recommend a good mechanic. The reason is that, sometimes, getting spares for particular brands can be difficult unless the car repair company already has a relationship with the manufacturer. It's always a good idea to test a new garage with a routine maintenance session, as that will allow you to see their customer service.

If your car breaks down and you need to take it to the mechanic, make sure they don't start doing any work until you actually approve it, and get a written quote. If the quote seems very high or the suggested repairs look too expensive you may want to go and get a second opinion, just in case there are cheaper ways to get your car running away. However, be careful to avoid being too cheap and making your car a health hazard because you choose to take a shortcut or use parts that aren't guaranteed.

You may also want to look into getting any repairs guaranteed by the car repair company for a specific amount of time, but you may need to ask before they actually offer that kind of insurance to you. Even if it is a bit pricier, a garage that is willing to guarantee their work is more likely to do a good job and save you from car repair disasters.

Marketing Your Auto Body Shop With a Referral System

There are many reasons to implement a website for your auto body shop business. An online presence is never a negative thing, as you can reach out to a much greater number of possible clients and advertise inexpensively. Auto body marketing can occur in many ways. You can advertise online and off. One offline marketing method is to use a referral system. Many benefits can be yours with such a system and there are certain strategies within the method that work the best for the collision repair industry.

The benefits of a referral system are far reaching. The first notable benefit is that a greater amount of customer assistance, relationship development and loyalty improvement can be had with a referral system. Also, such a system grows with time, so you will see a sequential increase of referrals after each year passes. You can appreciate all these benefits within your auto body shop while at the same time saving your employees time, giving them a greater opportunity to spend their time doing more useful things for the collision repair industry. Strangely, even with these obvious benefits, many marketers do not view it as a serious auto body marketing method. You can see how much of a myth this thought is when you put it into practice for yourself.

To start a referral system for your auto body shop, learn what works the best for the collision repair industry. Many businesses today, when implementing this system correctly, can offset one-fifth, one-half or even all of their yearly advertising efforts. If a company can reach the point of generating business with 100% referrals, the auto body marketing fund will practically be zero, allowing the saved funds to either become increased profit for the owner or put toward other elements to better the shop.

When you set up your business to reward customers for referring their friends, you have an increased probability that it will work, in the collision repair industry or virtually any other. The rewards and financial benefits you can see in your auto body shop are undeniable, no matter what angle you look at setting up a referral system in addition to or even to completely replace your other auto body marketing efforts. No matter exactly how you choose to implement a referral system in your business, the general purpose is to assist people in loving your service enough to tell their friends and family "what is so great" about your business.

Auto Glass Replacement

Replacing the glass on your car is not only an easy process, but it can actually be quite affordable. There are many different reasons as to why some have to resort to fully replacing some glass on their vehicle. What many people overlook though is that the glass in question that might need to be replacing might actually have a chance of being repaired instead of fully replaced. Your local auto glass specialist will be able to tell you if the damage is beyond repair, and will give you options on pricing for replacement.

Some of the common problems a windshield or door windows will receive over years of driving will be pitted glass, cracks, scratches, and many other imperfections. These types of imperfections may not seem like all that big of a deal to many people but in actuality can really decrease the amount of visibility you have with your glass. This is especially important with your front windshield and your rear window. Full, clear visibilities in these areas are very important to the safety of driving. At night time, visibility is already decreased, so having a pitted windshield will only make things worse.

Many people are unaware that you can have any piece of glass on your car replaced at your own convenience. Many of these companies will first give you a quote as to how much everything will cost, and then will drive to you to professionally install the piece of glass. The glass will be factory certified, and will brand new, not refurbished or anything along those lines.

The process of installation does not take long at all. If you choose to drive to your local auto glass specialist to get your glass replaced, you should expect to be in and out of there very quickly, and still have a very high quality of craftsmanship performed. The professionals properly install glass such as your windshield so that it will stand the test of time, and not prone to damage.

Under your insurance, often times you can get your auto glass repaired or replaced that was caused by road damage by only paying your small deductible. This makes the process itself much more enticing. If you receive a rock chip or any small type of damage, the most important thing to do is to go get it repaired at a low cost so that further down the road you will not end up replacing your windshield over a small crack or rock chip.

Professional Windshield Repair - One of the Many Services an Auto Body Shop Offers

Auto body shops are the perfect place to get a huge number of different issues repaired and replaced. If your vehicle has been involved in a collision, you will need to find a company to carry out the repairs quickly and at an affordable price. You may need component replacement, panel alignment or body straightening, which are all specialist tasks.

An area that many people forget to have assessed is the windshield, which is vital, and may need professional repairing. There is a huge array of different products, which you can use at home for windshield repair. However, these may not be suitable for the damage that you have done to the glass on your vehicle.

There are many different occasions when you will need to have your windshield replaced, and in the past you would have needed a specialist service shop. However, today the auto body shops can offer you the fantastic, added service of repairing and replacing your glass. The tools and knowledge are in the shop, therefore, utilizing them and providing an additional service is straightforward.

You may be confident enough to fix small issues, and cracks on the windshield, however, you will soon know when there is a larger problem. Extensive damage needs to be repaired quickly, and by a professional to ensure that the glass is safe. If you attempt to fix the glass yourself, and do not carry out a competent job, you could cause further damage to the car.

If your vehicle has been in a severe accident, and rolled over, the roof is likely to be crushed as part of the modern windshield installation system. The adhesive surrounding the windshield is there to keep the windshield in place and protect the passengers. Removing this seal can make the glass incredibly volatile, and can result in your insurance not being valid.

Alongside the repairs, the auto shop can also advise on the best way to claim on your insurance and advice on policies to protect against windshield repairs and damage. You may have to pay a small amount on top of your insurance payout, which is vital to ensure the repairs are done correctly. No compromises should be made where the windshield is concerned.

If you are in any doubt about the severity of the problem, there are many different online videos, which demonstrate how a small chip can spread to a huge crack. There are a huge amount of laws surrounding windshields, and the form of glass which has to be used. To ensure that your vehicle is up to standard, the glass should be two layers of damage resistant glass, plus a layer of polyvinyl butyrate.

If the glass on your car is impacted by any debris, the PVB layer will protect you from sharp, shards of glass. The amount of damage to the interior of the car and the passengers is reduced, as this layer provides a cushion. As more auto shops begin to search for ways to diversify their businesses, repairing windshields is becoming incredibly common.

Repairing Rust - How to Repair Auto Body Rust

Run your hand over some of your lower panels and you are bound to find rust breaking through. You might incur some measly bumps from old filler. Or it might just be rust breaking to the surface. Whatever the case, it needs to be sorted. If you don't fix it, it will just get bigger and grow worse.

Treating bubbly rust from the outside is a complete waste of time and money. In almost all cases the rust is on the inside of the panel, and like an iceberg, only 10 per cent has broken through.

How to tell if it's New or Repaired Rust

Smooth round bumps usually mean that the rust has been repaired before and filled with either plastic filler, or lead. The rust has continued to form, and push the filler out, (when metal rusts, it expands to many times its original size.) A dig with a sharp screwdriver will usually reveal a pinkish filler or shiny lead.

Small irregular bumps, with some brown stain, usually indicate new rust. A firm push with a narrow screwdriver will normally poke a hole right through the panel. This is called perforation rust.

In body crevices, or where paint is thin, surface rust can form. This can be identified by brown scale. Unless it is very severe, a screwdriver will not penetrate. Surface rust is not normally serious. All that is required is sanding back to shiny metal, and repainting.

Repairing Perforation Rust

• Preparing for filling

You will need the following:

1. Cork sanding block, approx 125mm x 75mm

2. 80 grit Drilube sandpaper

3. A carpenter's hammer

4. 1 x 100mm nail

Sand level any old filler that has become lumpy. If it has cracked or appears unstable, dig it out with a screwdriver or similar. If the remaining filler appears solid and well anchored, leave it as is.

Using the nail and hammer, punch in all of the rotted metal as indicated by small irregular bubbles. Look carefully all around the affected areas for bubbles about to form. These will show up as small brown stains. Punch these also. You should now have a series of round holes.

If there is more extensive rust that has already formed holes, use one of the claw tips of the hammer, to punch the rotted metal at least 6mm inward, around the hole. Always ensure that there is no weak metal level with the surface to be filled. This is best done by again tapping all around the area with the claw tip of the hammer. Finally, roughen the entire area thoroughly with 80 grit sandpaper, using the cork block. Blow off the excess dust and make absolutely sure that the area to be repaired is dry, inside and out.

Where possible, in the case of holes larger than 25mm in diameter, it will save time and filler to wedge a piece of cardboard, or similar, on the inside of the hole to support the filler as it dries. A ball of newspaper can be used to hold the cardboard in place. This can be removed later.

Dealing With Transmission Problems

The purpose of a car's transmission is to take the power that is produced by the engine and drive the wheels. The engine's crankshaft spins at a certain speed, depending on throttle position. The transmission can either reduce or increase that speed based on a selection of gears. The transmission then turns the driveshaft, which then turns the wheels.

Internal combustion engines produce most of their power over a narrow range. Therefore it is necessary to have different gear ratios to allow power over a wider range of vehicle speeds. Transmissions allow cars to have good power and good fuel efficiency at the same time. A car without one would perform very poorly or use a very large amount of gas.

The transmission is a rather complex piece of machinery, typically having anywhere from four to six speeds, and can be either manually or automatically controlled. Automatic transmissions are more complex, as these need more parts in order to shift the transmission. Manual transmissions are more simple, as the shifting is handled by the driver. Either type is prone to problems, so the more complex it is, the more likely a piece of equipment will have issues, and transmissions are no exception.

Automatic transmissions are the most popular due to their convenience. Unfortunately, automatics are much more complex than manual transmissions, and therefore are much more prone to having issues. A good transmission should last the expected lifetime of a vehicle, however problems may still arise. Transmission issues are usually easy to notice, thanks to the fact that the transmission is directly connected to the powertrain.

Because of this, a problem with the transmission can usually be heard or felt. Symptoms of problems in an automatic transmission can include such things as slow or delayed shifting, jerking, hesitation on acceleration, grinding or thumping noises, excessive vibration, whining, reduced power and engine overheating. Other symptoms can be more obvious. These are such things as a car's failure to move or transmission fluid loss, which can be seen as reddish stains on the ground underneath the car.

Manual transmissions tend to have fewer issues, but these can still occur, especially in older or heavily-driven vehicles. Symptoms for manual transmissions can include failure to shift into a gear (or multiple gears), clutch not disengaging, and odd noises such as grinding or whining. Excessive vibration, loss of fluid (normally brownish color), engine overheating and failure of the vehicle to move, despite the fact that the engine is running.

If any of these issues are encountered, it is very important not to keep driving the vehicle. If you do drive it, further transmission damage and engine damage can occur. The vehicle should be taken in to an auto repair shop as soon as possible. Be sure to note all issues encountered, and describe the problems in detail to the mechanic.

Describe any noises and any odd behavior while driving. Be sure to be thorough in your description, as this saves time in diagnosing the problem which can save you money. Transmission repair is complex and can be costly. However, by acting in a timely manner and being observant you can save money.

How to Choose an Auto Repair Shop

What should you look for when selecting a service shop?

The best advice is to ALWAYS ask for recommendations from friends, relatives, family, and other people you trust. Fellow employees and workmates are a good place to start. Best if you locate a reputable shop before you actually need one.

This way you avoid being rushed into a last-minute decision.

USE THE TELEPHONE OR INTERNET

Shop around by using the telephone or Internet for the best deal, and then compare warranty policies on your repairs that need doing.

Inquire to see their licenses and note if they are current or not. If there is state or local law which requires auto repair shops to be licensed or registered.

A good idea is to make contact with your state Attorney Generals office or local consumer protection agency and see whether there is a record of complaints about a particular auto center.

Above all, make sure the auto shop will honor your vehicles warranty.

IMPORTANT AREAS TO CONSIDER

* Become familiar with your owners manual and follow the manufacturers suggested service schedule. A motor vehicle owners manual contains a wealth of information so it is a good idea to carefully read through it before you spend lots of your time searching in other areas. Why? Because the information that you seek could very well be right under your nose.

* It is a good idea to shop around for an auto repair shop before you actually need one; it will help when making decisions because you are not in rush or in a panic. Do not just pick the first auto repair shop that you come across. A little bit of extra effort and time spent in this direction can pay off in big dividends and wind-up saving you a bundle of cash in the process.

* It is always best to seek recommendations from friends and associates. The old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is still the best advice you can count on.

* Look for a tidy, well-organized auto repair shop, with cars in their parking lot of similar age and value as your own.

* All shop policies including labor costs, guarantees, methods of payment, etc., should be in open view to the public.

* Find out if the auto repair shop you are considering using usually does your type of repair, especially if you need major mechanical work.

* Are they a professional shop with a clean customer service area? Believe it or not a clean and well organized workshop is a good sign of a professional auto repair service. Why? Because it shows that they take pride in their work and want to provide the very best of service to their customers.

* Do they display any civic and community service awards, long-term membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards. etc.

Put in a bit of extra leg work and research in this area, and it will reward you both now and with any future servicing and any costly repair jobs you may need to get done.

Car Scratch Repair Made Simple

Finding ugly scratches on your car is always an unpleasant surprise. Right away, you start thinking about hundreds of dollars you'll have to spend on car scratch repair and all the time you will be wasting taking your car to the paint repair shop. A lot of people don't realize that most scratches are very minor and can be easily repaired in just a few minutes. All you need is right products and good instructions.

Items you will need:

Since most scratches only damage the clear coat, you can quickly remove them with a little bit of good quality rubbing compound. Avoid using cheap products, since they can damage the paint and also leave swirl marks that can be hard to remove. High quality rubbing compound will safely fix the scratch, leaving a shiny and slick surface.

Rubbing compound works like a fine sanding paper, smoothing the edges of the scratch. This method is great only for minor clear coat scratches. If the scratch is too deep, rubbing compound will only lessen the appearance, but will not remove the scratch.

Car scratch repair instructions:

Start by cleaning out the surface with some warm water and few drops of Dawn dish soap. This will remove all the dirt and wax around the scratched area. Next, apply some rubbing compound to the foam pad that usually comes with the compound. Using back and forth motion start smoothing the compound onto the vehicle's surface. Apply some pressure, but not too much. Some people recommend using a power buffer, but I don't think it is necessary to spend $100 on the polishing machine just to repair a minor clear coat scratch.

White residue from the rubbing compound should be removed with a soft microfiber cloth. I always recommend using microfiber cloth vs. paper towel or bath towel, since other materials might leave scratches on the clear coat. Depending on the rubbing compound, you might see swirl marks on the surface, especially if you have a dark-colored car. Don't worry, there are a lot of liquid swirl removers on the market. For show room shine, follow it with polishing compound.

This easy scratch repair should take you not more than 15 minutes. When you done, it is good idea to apply wax. Good quality wax will protect your car from oxidization and weather damage. In the end, by spending only around $10, you can repair those ugly scratches yourself in just a few minutes.

Using Online Media For Your Auto Body Repair Business

Although the need for body repair shops probably arose weeks after Henry Ford produced his first automobile, technologies that support the auto body repair shop business, such as marketing and customer retention, have taken a back seat to those which are used directly for collision repair, such as paint and spray gun technologies, frame alignment, bonding systems and materials technologies.

But in a changing world, specially one dominated by information technologies, shop managers cannot ignore data-driven technologies that help auto body repair shop owners retain customers and develop new markets. Statistics around the world support the fact that e-mail, text messaging, smartphones, location-based marketing, social media, and digital advertising are components that are essential to a modern marketing, communications and customer retention strategy. You may think that text messaging or a fan page on Facebook are frivolous uses for the Internet, but savvy managers and marketers have in fact turned these platforms into business tools for reaching out to customers and analyzing trends.

For example, the explosion in the use of smartphones means that customers can be updated in real time as to the status of their vehicles under repair. A shop can coordinate simultaneously with an insurance adjuster and a customer by emailing on data-enabled smartphones. Or in the absence of email on a phone, even text messaging is enough to send a short message that can update customers and other interested parties as frequently as they want. This platform can also be used to advertise promos, send thank you messages or reminders and receive customer feedback.

As far as social media like Facebook are concerned, a page can enable a business to capture customers, receive customer referrals, increase retention, generate web site traffic without having to set up a dedicated site, gather feedback and interact with customers. Most, if not all, of the data a shop needs to establish an online rapport with customers is already in a database that has been compiled over the years. All those invoices, repair bills, repair estimates and other forms need only be entered into a computer to become a valuable asset in managing the businesses' customers.

An auto body repair shop's online presence can be as pervasive or as simple as a shop owner wants. What is apparent is that an auto body repair shop cannot ignore an online presence if it aims to be relevant in the mindspace of its target market.

Micro Entrepreneurs

Micro entrepreneurs are the owners of small businesses that have fewer than five employees and have startup costs of less than $35,000 and annual revenue of less than $100,000. There are nearly 21.5 million micro entrepreneurs in the U.S. Examples of micro entrepreneurs are owners of bakeries, beauty parlors, child care facilities, repair shops, arts and crafts shops, painting businesses, contracting businesses, family-owned shops, auto body shops, small-scale restaurants, and small-inventory trading businesses.

Micro entrepreneurs face many hurdles in getting startup financing, and they sometimes lack the skills necessary to manage the financial aspect of their business. As a result, many micro entrepreneurs cannot grow and develop their business beyond a micro enterprise. Various micro enterprise development programs have helped micro entrepreneurs achieve great success and growth. These micro enterprise development programs have immensely helped micro entrepreneurs who lack collateral needed to secure a loan or those who have low or no credit by providing them with training, support, help in developing a solid business plan, and assistance in building their businesses. Successful micro entrepreneurs have contributed much to society by creating wealth, economic assets, and jobs.

How To Become A Micro Entrepreneur

It is essential to study the market thoroughly and understand that market's customers before deciding on the type and kind of product or service to be offered.

Here are some suggestions:

Work out a sound business plan by doing extensive research and seeking help from the various micro enterprise development programs.

Make arrangements for the startup capital by using savings, opting for a micro loan program, or applying for a grant.

Do extensive market research, get the necessary training and skills required, and learn how to use technology to help run your business easily.

Study the competition and analyze how you can better them.

Get a good retail space to run your business as well as decide on the price, making sure it is right and has a profit margin; decide how to utilize the profit, whether you want to save it or reinvest and expand your micro business.

Make sure that the quality of the product is never compromised and that your customers are happy, ensuring customer retention.

Assistance for Micro Entrepreneurs

Micro entrepreneurs in the U.S. are in need of training and skill development workshops as well as help in utilizing technology to help run their business. Some micro entrepreneurs need access to easily available funds for startup and growth. In order to encourage more people to become micro entrepreneurs, state, federal, and private sectors should make available ample funding for such enterprises.

With a little effort, you can find firms that sell their services as well as products to help run successful businesses. You can even seek professional help to arrange business credit for micro enterprises.