How to save money on car repairs-Stick with Independent shops

Part III: Stick with independent shops.

While these smaller outfits charge close to the same as dealers for parts and labor, you'll save because they won't sell you unnecessary repairs and services.

Since dealer service managers often work on commission, it benefits them to sell you as many services as possible-whether or not you need them.

For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Find a Reputable Shop and be Loyal

Part II:  Find a Reputable Shop

Never pick a repair shop out of the phone book or based on an ad.

Ask for recommendations from friends, family or coworkers. And once you find a good shop, stay with it.

"Shops tend to offer regular customers special money-saving coupons and breaks on repair costs because they know you'll return.

 For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456

How to save money on car repairs-Maintain and Prevent

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 Part I: Maintain and Prevent

The number-one way to pay less on car repairs is to avoid them in the first place. Keep your ride in prime shape by following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

Major & minor services are usually suggested every 15,000 to 30,000 miles & you'll find it in your car owner's manual (lost yours? find it on Edmunds.com).

For expert automotive repair and maintenance advice, call Autovantage at 530-823-3456.

Fall Special- A $75 Savings!

FALL SPECIAL - $75 Savings

Have you noticed the changes in the weather? Fall is finally here. The cool nights and pleasant days are here. However this means winter will be here before we know it. Is your vehicle ready for the colder weather and slick roads?

 Let us take the worry out of upcoming weather and make sure your transportation is safe.

Our FALL SPECIAL will include:

* Oil Service with a high quality synthetic blend 5w30 oil
            (up to 6 quarts)
* 15 point safety inspection
* We will test your battery
* Replace front wiper blades (standard blades only)
* Check cooling system for leaks and protection
* Check heater function & coolant hoses
* and prioritize any recommended repairs needed.

ALL FOR ONLY $99.95

($174.95 normally / Savings of $75.00)

*May not be combined with any other discounts or offers.

This Offer is good until 10-31-12 call today to schedule your appointment
at 530-823-3456 and let us take the worry out of your winter. Click HERE to may your appointment.

How Often Do I Change My Fuel Filter?

How often do I change my fuel filter?

For high mileage vehicles, replacing the fuel filter annually for preventative maintenance is a good idea for two reasons. By the time a vehicle is six or seven years old, there can be a fair amount of rust and debris in the fuel tank. Rust can be formed by moisture and condensation, and debris can get into your tank anytime you add fuel. So changing it on a periodic basis can help minimize the risk.

Most newer vehicles do not have a specified interval for replacing the fuel filter. In fact, some even have "lifetime" filters that supposedly never need to be changed. But any filter can plug up if enough rust or debris gets sucked into the fuel inlet.

Gasoline is supposed to be filtered at the pump but sometimes that isn't enough. The fuel you put in your tank may be contaminated with water from leaky underground storage tanks and improperly mixed alcohol blends. So there are no guarantees the fuel is clean.

 If you make a habit of driving your vehicle with the fuel tank below 1/4 full, you run the risk of changing your filter more often due to the debris that collects over time at the bottom of your fuel tank.

Replacing the filter periodically for preventative maintenance is simply insurance that reduces the risk of it clogging your fuel system. Given enough time, every filter will eventually reach the end of its service life. Even the filter in a brand new vehicle right off the showroom floor is at risk if the owner happens to get a dirty tank of fuel.

Seek a professional's advice. Call us at Autovantage for all your automotive service needs.

What are the Common Signs of a Bad Air Filter

What are the common signs that a car air filter is bad or faulty?

•  Reduced fuel economy
• Reduced Power while running
• Increased emmissions
• Fouled spark plugs
• A visual inspection of the air filter will also show a clogged and dirty filter

We can answer any questions regarding your engine's air filter and many others to help you maintain your vehicle and keep you on the road where you belong.  Call us at Autovantage Service Center at 530-823-3456

When to Change Your Car Airfilter?

When Should I change my car airfilter?

A car’s air filter serves two purposes. The first function is to filter out dirt, debris and other contaminants that can enter an engine and potentially cause damage. An air filter's other primary function is to allow adequate air to flow into the engine; a car's engine requires air for the internal combustion process which produces the power needed to move the vehicle.

Most types of automotive air filters are designed to be easily replaced, and should be changed out periodically to help maintain a vehicle and keep it in top running condition. Most car manufacturers suggest that the air filter in a vehicle be changed every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. However, for people that live in areas where a lot of dust is present or where they must frequently travel on dirt or gravel roads, a vehicle's air filter will need to be replaced more often. 

We can answer any questions you may have regarding your car's air filter and any other car questions to help you maintain your vehicle and keep you on the road where you belong.  Call us at Autovantage Service Center @ 530-823-3456.