ABS or Anti-Lock Braking System is a relatively new recent safety addition that now comes standard on most new vehicles. Failure or issues with ABS usually are related to a car's ECU or electronic control unit which determines how much pressure to apply to brakes.

ABS or Anti-Lock Brakes became common on nearly every vehicle during the mid-1990s and is now a standard safety feature. Recommended ABS service includes replacing brake fluid every two years or 24,000 miles.

The Acura brand was introduced to the US in 1986 as the first luxury brand from Japan.

If the air bag light comes on, this indicates that the air bag may not deploy in the event of an accident and should be checked as soon as possible by the dealer.

AC Systems typically comprise of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and an expansion valve which controls the level of coolant. Typical problems can arise with a faulty compressor that needs replacement or a coolant leak requiring a complete system check.

Audi's began showing up in North America in the early 1980s. Early models were known for solid performance but not for their reliability. Today's Audis are certainly better in terms of reliability, but off warranty Audis can still be costly to repair. Save money by visiting a non-dealer specialist.

The alternator is one of the most important auto parts with which an engine cannot function without. Cars rely on batteries to provide power, however given their limits on lasting long periods of time, they rely on alternators to maintain their capacity. In general, when an alternator fails, it is often replaced with a new or rebuilt unit.

Auto body repair generally means a visit to a specialized service shop that handles exterior work to a vehicle, such as fixing a damaged fender or repainting an old paint job. Auto body work is a highly specialized skill and quality of service can differ greatly amongst shops. Keep in mind that auto body shops generally differ from collision centers, which have the expertise to handle major engine and structural repairs.

When you get in an accident, the process of locating an auto body shop to restore your vehicle begins. When selecting a shop, be sure to ask about technical qualifications and check to see if the shop has new equipment and appears clean and organized. Making sure the staff has recent technical certifications is especially important if your vehicle is a late model.

Servicing or repairing brakes is one of the most common auto repair needs. Replacing brake pads is the most minor and least costly service repair. Other fixes include replacing or resurfacing brake rotors, repairing leaky brake lines, or flushing hydraulic brake fluid.

When you get in an accident, the process of locating an auto collision center to restore your vehicle begins. When selecting a center, be sure to ask about technical qualifications and check to see if the shop has new equipment and appears clean and organized. Making sure the staff has recent technical certifications is especially important if your vehicle is a late model.

Collision centers differ from auto body shops in that they can handle major repairs generally due to the result of an accident. In addition to employing auto body experts that can fix the exterior of a vehicle, collision centers also have the expertise to fix the structural integrity of a vehicle, as well as handle major engine work and other repairs.

Auto detailing generally involves comprehensive cleaning to a vehicle's exterior and/or interior often involving multiple steps. For exterior detailing, steps can include washing, claying, polishing, and waxing. Interior detailing can include vacuuming, window cleaning, and scenting. Depending on the level of service and attention, details can run-upwards of a few hundred dollars.

Diagnostic service involves checking fluids, such as the brake, power steering, transmission, and other fluids. Other service checks include measuring tire pressure, looking at battery cables/posts for corrosion, inspecting engine belts, as well as testing lights and other electrical components.

A properly maintained auto engine ensures that you shouldn't be surprised with any unnecessary repairs as you own the vehicle. Replacing an engine is typically the most costly repair that can be made. Regular oil changes is the most important maintenance item, however, other items such as replacing spark plugs, adjusting valves, and replacing belts go a long ways in keeping your engine properly tuned and in solid running condition.

There are approximately 7,000 auto glass fix it shops across the US, although many general auto repair shops can also handle windshield and other glass repairs. Many glass problems can be fixed without full replacement at a much reduced cost, so be sure to ask about all options.

There are approximately 7,000 auto glass repair shops across the US, although many general auto repair shops can also handle windshield and other glass repairs. The top reasons for choosing one glass repair shop over another are location and insurance company recommendation.

There are approximately 7,000 auto glass repair and replacement shops across the US, although many general auto service centers can also handle windshield and other glass repairs. The top reasons for choosing one glass replacement shop over another are location and insurance company recommendation.

Auto junkyards (also known as wrecking or salvage yards) are usually independently operated and can offer substantial discounts on car and truck parts, especially if your vehicle is old and not worth significant investments to keep operable. Many yards still allow visitors to find and pull parts themselves or may do the work for you. Increasingly, junkyards are putting their inventories online offering an alternative to your local operator.

There are many auto parts stores to choose from with most business handled by national or regional chains. One important tip if the part you're looking for is a non-emergency item is to check prices online. Sometimes retailers will have two sets of prices with significant discounts offered online.

Depending on your vehicle's condition, there are many towing service providers out there to satisfy your needs. The most common tow trucks are known as "wheel-lift" trucks where the front or rear wheels are lifted using a metal yoke. Also popular and typically used when a vehicle is completely immobile is a flat-bed truck. Most towing providers are small and independently operated.

Tune-ups are typically recommended every 30,000 miles with more major service checks every 60,000 miles. Tune-ups certainly differ by repair shop, but common levels of service/work include; replacing the air filter, replacing the fuel filter, inspecting brakes/rotors, inspecting the distributor cap, installing new spark plugs (and wires if needed), conducting an electrical system and battery check, inspecting belts/hoses, and topping off and checking all fluids.

Common issues with non-functioning power windows include dirty contacts that may require cleaning, a faulty switch, or if this doesn't fix the problem, a motor that needs replacing.

A well maintained automatic transmission should shift smoothly between gears as the car accelerates. If shift points become inconsistent or unusually noisy, then it may be time to have your transmission checked and repaired by an expert. Often times, transmissions can be fixed with a minor adjustment. To prolong the life of your transmission, it's very important to have the transmission fluid changed at regular intervals (typically every 25,000 miles for most vehicles).

Other than the engine and wheels, axles are probably one of the most important but overlooked parts to your car. Cars today generally have split axles, which allow for more sophisticated suspension systems, and in addition to supporting the weight of your vehicle, help drive and steer the car. A common problem with axles can be wear the axle connects to the wheel. This connection is called the CV joint and is protected by the CV boot. To prevent potentially costly and unnecessary wear and tear, it's important to quickly fix a ripped or torn CV boot.

BMW began exporting vehicles to the US in the late 1950s and now counts America as its largest market. BMW Parts can be found at junkyards, specialty aftermarket shops, as well as traditional retail chains.

The Brake Clutch is activated by pressing the clutch all the way to the floor. The Brake acts to prevent the transmission from accidentally shifting into or out of gear.

Maintaining your vehicle's brake system is just as important as regularly tuning any other system on your car. Common problems include air pockets in brake lines, warped rotors, and failure of the master cylinder.

There are generally three items that should be checked when maintaining your vehicle's number one safety system. The most basic brake repair is replacing brake pads. To ensure optimal braking performance, brake rotors should also be looked at to ensure a smooth surface with the brake pad. Finally, refilling brake fluid and 'bleeding' the brake lines at regular intervals should also eliminate troublesome air bubbles that could hurt performance.

Brakes are one of the most important safety elements on your vehicle. Replacing pads at the recommended times and topping off brake fluids should prevent unnecessary wear and potentially costly repair. However, if your brake pedal is hard or low, you hear grinding or constant squeaking, or your brake light comes on, it's time to head to your local brake shop.

Getting into an accident is certainly an unpleasant experience so choosing a collision center shouldn't make things even more-so. Recommendations from friends/family is one method to pick an appropriate shop. However, no matter how you choose, it's always good to to talk to different repair shops and get at least three estimates. Other important questions include methods of payment (not all shops are consistent) and length of time before you get your vehicle back.

Electrical repairs can often be frustrating due to multitude of potential causes but diagnosing usually starts with the battery and charging system. Other issues include faulty wiring causing shorts, as well as problems with the starter.

Car frame repairs generally require a visit to a collision center or auto body repair shop with the proper straightening and measurement equipment to handle repairs.

There are approximately 7,000 glass repair shops across the US, although many general auto repair shops can also handle windshield and other glass repairs. The top reasons for choosing one glass repair shop over another are location and insurance company recommendation.

There are approximately 7,000 glass repair shops across the US, although many general auto repair shops can also handle windshield and other glass repairs. The top reasons for choosing one glass repair shop over another are location and insurance company recommendation.

The most common car repair needs include fixing brakes, changing oil, repairs to the cooling or heating system, issues with the ignition, fixing the steering system or suspension, problems with the fuel system/carburetor, electrical issues, transmission problems, air conditioning trouble, and exhaust system repairs.

If your vehicle is not functioning properly and not worth the cost of repair, it may be time to consider the services of a wrecking yard and retire your car or truck. Unless your vehicle is newer with higher-demand parts, most salvage yards charge for this service.

Car shocks absorb the up and down movement of springs when vehicles pass over bumps in the road. If the front or rear of your car or truck continues the initial motion, then chances are your shocks are in need of service or replacement.

Tires with slow leaks or small punctures can often be repaired with tire repair kits. To help elongate the life of a tire, the Rubber Manufacturers' Association recommends that vehicle owners inspect tires once a month to make sure that tires maintain specified pressure levels. It's also recommended that tires are properly aligned and regularly rotated.

Getting regular tune-ups is critical to extending the life of your car or truck and most importantly can identify problems before things get worse and potentially more costly. Depending on the make/model and where you get your tune-up done (dealer versus independent), tune-ups can run $200 to $500. Items that are typically checked include major items such as the Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Starting and Charging. Other checked items include Belts, Filters, Fluids, Exhaust, and Tires.

Car washes range from inexpensive self-service coin-operated operations to automatic car washes found at gas stations to higher-end full service locations offering auto detailing and other services.

When the check engine light turns on, it's never a pleasant sight as thoughts of costly/unknown repairs come to mind. However, often times the engine light can be caused by loose gas caps or touchy sensor issues. Then again, if the light seems to keep coming back, then there's a high chance you'll need to prepare for an unpleasant visit to the repair shop.

Despite Chrysler's economic woes, Chrysler parts can easily be found at dealers, as well as large and small auto parts around the US.

There are several symptoms indicating that a clutch needs replacement or repair. Typical warning signs include change in feel where the clutch requires more effort to depress, the clutch cannot be adjusted, or more downshifts are required when climbing hills. If depressing the clutch does not stall the engine, then your clutch needs replacing.

There are several symptoms indicating that a clutch needs replacement or repair including slippage and inability to adjust. Depending on driving habits, clutches should last 4 to 7 years. If depressing the clutch does not stall the engine, then your clutch needs replacing.

Is your car overheating? If so, getting your cooling system checked immediately is critical to avoid damage or failure to your vehicle's engine.

The CV (Constant Velocity) joint connects a vehicles CV axle to the wheel. Problems with the joint are often the result of cracks in the CV boot which could allow dirt and other particles into the joint and cause excessive wear.

Repairing dents can take many forms depending on whether the paint has cracked or the complexity of the impression. For deeper dents, traditional auto body repair techniques involving drilling holes, using filler and re-painting is the only option. However, on newer cars where dents aren't as deep, paintless dent repair can be a significantly cheaper option.

Driveline repair and service needs are often done through specialty shops that have the equipment and experience to handle various service needs. This can include fixing or rebuilding driveshafts, manual transmissions, 4 wheel drives, axle shafts, brakes, and more.

The fuel filter screens out dirt and other contaminant particles that end up in fuel tanks. Fuel filters do not need to be changed after every oil change but it is recommended that they are checked every 3,000 miles. Failure to clean or replace fuel filters at regular intervals can reduce engine performance substantially.

A common gas tank problem can involve tank corrosion leading to leaks or rust particles clogging up the fuel filter.

Jeeps have been around since 1941 and with many old Jeeps continuing to be popular today, there is a constant need for Jeep parts. Salvage yards are a great place to start for inexpensive parts, however, their are also many aftermarket shops that specialize in a comprehensive roster of both parts and-on accessories.

The biggest choice when picking a mechanic to fix your vehicle is usually whether to go to an independent shop or stick with the dealer. Independents are generally cheaper, but unless you go with a specialty shop with specific knowledge on fixing certain makes or models (or problems), they may not have the experience or proper equipment to diagnose and repair any issue. Either route, it's important to ask for estimates if you know what needs fixing or at least what the hourly rate is for unknown problems where the time component can quickly make for an expensive visit.

The most common muffler repairs are patching pin holes in the muffler, welding the joint between the exhaust pipe and the muffler, and replacing the muffler altogether.

Oil changes are recommended every 3 months or 3,000 miles, but several brands now allow drivers to wait as many 10,000 or 15,000 miles before changing oil. Standard oil changes typically cost $20 to $30, however, oil changes using synthetic oils can cost upwards of $60 to $80.

Motor oil helps lubricate your engine as well as clean engine parts and prevent corrosion. There are many different types or grades of oil so be sure to use the proper variant recommended for your engine.

There are several effective ways to remove paint on your car and if you aren't willing to do it yourself, most professional auto body shops can help you out. Different methods include sand blasting, media blasting (using plastic instead of sand), chemical removers, sanding, and grinding.

Rack and pinion steering is the most common steering set-up found in cars today. Common problems involve power steering fluid leaks and worn out bushings. If the entire rack and pinion system needs replacement, it can cost upwards of $1,000 depending on the vehicle.

Dealing with rust can be a do-it-yourself fix for smaller isolated rust problems, or for professional repairs this can mean a visit to the auto body shop. Patching paint chips when they appear and regular washing in the winter can help prevent the need for more costly repairs.

Window tinting is typically best handled by specialty shops with the proper experience to do a proper install. While there are do-it-yourself options, results may differ from the professionals. It's important to consider state laws when considering tint levels as rules differ greatly.

Given differing driving habits and inconsistent wheel alignments, it's important to regularly rotate your vehicle's wheels if you would like to extend the life of your tires. It's recommended that tires are rotated every 7,500 miles or so, (roughly every other oil change).

When it comes to hauling a vehicle, there are generally three types of tow trucks used. Flat bed tow trucks can slide an entire vehicle onto the back of the truck and is useful when there is significant damage to more than just the front or back wheels of a car. A wheel-lift tow truck uses a large yoke to lift two wheels and pull a vehicle. A hook and chain tow truck uses chains wrapped around a vehicles axle or frame or lift and move a vehicle. These trucks are not as popular due to cosmetic damage that can result from the chains.

Toyota has been around in North America since the 1970s and depending your vehicle, parts can be found at salvage yards, auto parts stores, or Toyota dealers. For OEM parts, dealers may be your best bet, however significant savings may be in store if you drive an older Toyota and are willing to consider parts from a salvage yard.

There are many different types of trailers (box, livestock, camping, boat, etc.), however most operate the same. Typical service needs include re-greasing wheel bearings and checking brakes (if the is large enough to have them), as well as testing the electrical hookup to make sure brake/park light, and turn-signals properly function.

Replacing transmission fluid is recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles and could be required more often than what the dealer recommends on older vehicles. However, if your vehicle has high mileage and when the last transmission flush is unknown, replacing fluids could actually do more harm then good. Consult your mechanic if this is the case.

Proper wheel alignment is a critical safety component on larger vehicles that either pull trailers or have three axles, such as RVs and semis.