Why Prefer Expert Auto Service to DIY When Tuning Up Your Vehicle

Owning a car comes with the duty to keep it well-oiled. True enough, you must know a thing or two about tune-up if you want your vehicle to be roadworthy at all times. However, you have to draw the line when the need for professional auto service comes. Trying to repair or update your car on your own may have a number of adverse consequences.

It Might Nullify Your Warranty

Most cars, particularly those that were purchased from a dealership, have warranty issued by either the manufacturer or the dealership. Warranty can come in handy when you suddenly need servicing for your vehicle while on a tight budget. This perk, however, is usually valid within a certain period and for select types of service.

A warranty can be nullified when the conditions set by the issuer are breached. Generally, a warranty remains valid until repair is performed by a non-dealer qualified mechanic, done not according to the recommended times in the logbook, or carried out using the wrong parts. Simply put, if you try to fix or update your car by yourself, you are running the risk of breaching the contract and voiding the warranty.

Your Insurance May Not Cover It

It’s not just the warranty that is at stake when you choose to go DIY on your car repair or upkeep. You also risk not getting covered by your insurance. Most insurance policies cover simple repair work on vehicles, but major ones like modifications to the wheels and exhaust system may need to be consulted with your insurer. To be safe, just send your car to a certified car service provider.

You Need the Job to Be Done Properly

The changes you do to your vehicle can have a tremendous effect on its performance and safety on the road. The only problem is that if you’re not a professional technician, there’s a chance that you can do more harm to your vehicle than good, which could cost you your lives and the lives of your passengers. It’s true that there are some repair jobs that you can easily carry out on your own, but the major ones have to be left to the pro.  

DIY Takes Time

Tuning up a vehicle takes time, especially when a lot of work has to be done and the one to do them is untrained. If you don’t have an extra vehicle that you can use while the other one is under maintenance, DIY can cause real problem. So if you want your vehicle to be available by the time you need it, just send it to a service center. Depending on the kind and extent of maintenance your car needs, it may take just a couple of days to finish. Sometimes, the work can be done much faster.

Yes, it may cost you a little bit more to send your car to a service center, but it’s worth it. The last thing you need is a car that is only bound to break down at the most inconvenient time. With professional auto service provided by a leading service center in Portland, such as McLoughlin Chevy, you’ll have peace of mind throughout every journey.

About McLoughlin Chevy: Mcloughlin Chevy is a go-to resource for the best Chevrolet models at MVP prices. When you visit our showroom, you’ll see a wide selection of Chevy units, each boasting great features that will make every journey fun and safe. We also offer GM certified used cars, parts, and accessories. When it comes to car repair and maintenance, there’s no better place in town that you can send your vehicles to than our service center.

Sources:

8 DIY Car Maintenance Tips You Can Handle – Checklist, moneycrashers.com

What Does an Auto Mechanic Do?, learn.org

Auto Service Tips: How Oil Change Can Save and Prolong Your Vehicle’s Life

Just as your body needs blood and water to function properly, your car needs various kinds of fluid to operate as well. One fluid that is particularly essential to your car’s health is the motor oil. It lubricates the engine to reduce wear and friction as well as filter out contaminants, which could potentially harm the engine parts.

Unlike gasoline, which is burned and replaced very often, oil can be resupplied into the engine over and over. However, oil isn’t made to last forever. Over time, it will accumulate debris and some of its contents will evaporate until all that is left is a thick, dark fluid that might cause severe damage on the engine. Here are some of the most prominent reasons why changing oil on a regular basis is crucial.

Prevents Over-Heating

Friction is the number one enemy of a car engine. This force created by rubbing two objects is known to produce heat. Unfortunately, a car engine works by forcing different parts to move and slide against each other, so you can imagine how much friction and heat it generates. By soaking these engine parts with oil while running, some of the heat generated by the moving engine parts are transferred to the oil, allowing the whole engine to cool down rapidly.

Keep Particles and Sludge at Bay

Your car engine is designed to be so compact that it has no room even for tiny debris. These debris, whether they come from an external source or from the worn parts themselves, can damage the engine as motor oil carries them around. This is why it is very important to have the oil replaced when it has already accumulated excessive amounts of debris. One good sign that the oil is due for changing is when the engine starts to make strange noises.

Saves Energy and Increases Efficiency

Dirty oil can slow down the engine because it no longer lubricates parts effectively. Regrettably, the amount of fuel the engine burns per given time remains the same. Meaning, the engine needs to work harder to accelerate when it has insufficient or contaminated oil in it. By changing your car’s motor oil regularly, you can enjoy speed and save fuel at the same time.

Prolongs the Life of Your Car

Don’t wait until every component of your engine gets all worn down before you send your car to a GM certified auto service provider in Portland for an oil change. Although some of your friends may suggest that you perform the oil change yourself, it is always better to have it done by a professional technician to avoid mistakes that might end up needing costly repair. Regular oil change can keep each part of the engine in top shape, consequently prolonging the life of your car.

To make sure that you will be using the right motor oil on your engine, consult with a professional mechanic first. Usually, they’ll provide more information about oil change than the name of the best brand alone. If you’re lucky, they can even have a look at your engine and give some more professional advice, which most people could not get for free.

About Mcloughlin Chevrolet: As a GM certified automotive service center, Mcloughlin Chevy is Oregon’s go-to resource for the best automotive car services, new or used vehicles, auto parts, and comprehensive information about the latest Chevy car models. Whether you want to purchase a new or pre-owned unit or simply want to experience our world-class auto repair and maintenance approach, you are welcome to stop by and check us out.

"Honesty, Integrity is our No.1 Priority, When it comes to GM vehicles, you can count on us!"

- Monty Eby -

(Service Director – McLoughlin Chevrolet)

Sources:

What Does Motor Oil Do?, familyhandyman.com

What is friction?, khanacademy.or

Car Problems Only the Auto Service in Portland Can Fix

In this age where DIY solutions are the norm, it seems like everyone wants to fix everything on their own. While learning a new repair technique or skill can come in handy sometimes, knowing when to call in the experts for help is also a smart move. When it comes to car issues with your GM vehicle, it is always a good idea to use a professional GM certified auto service in Portland because professional mechanics are equipped with the right tools and expertise.

Here are some common car issues that you should leave to the experts:

1. Transmission Repair or Maintenance

A car’s transmission has a lot of small, delicate parts, narrow passageways for the hydraulic fluids, and precise tolerances. Trying to dismantle everything to fix the problems yourself can only result in more damage. Transmission repairs are best left at the hands of skilled transmission specialists. Transmission maintenance needs like fluid changes and flushing should be done by a trained mechanic. One wrong move and you can botch the transmission, so let the experts fix the problem.

2. Engine Overheating

Overheating sounds like a fairly common car problem that just about anyone can fix. The truth is, it is very dangerous and expensive to attempt the repairs at home. A mechanic first needs to diagnose the issues correctly and then they can start repairs. Unskilled DIY mechanics don’t have the skills or tools to do so.

3. Replacing Suspension Components

The suspension is made up of different components like the bushings, struts, and arms. These may look easy to replace, but the repair process is actually very complicated and detailed. A lot of things can go wrong in a multitude of different ways. Amateurs might even forget about the amount of force a compressed coil spring holds and put themselves in danger, not to mention the specific order of how the different pieces go back in their proper place, which, only an experienced mechanic knows how to carry out properly.

4. Timing-Belt Replacement

Every GM car owner should know that their car is due for a timing-belt replacement every 60,000 – 100,000 miles of travel. This car maintenance must-do can cost up to $1,000 which makes it even more tempting to do it at home. However, the amount you might think you’re saving can only result in more expenses down the road and even put you at risk of accident. Timing-belt replacement done wrong can heavily damage the engine which can escalate the repair cost up to $3,500. No one wants that.

Trust an GM certified Auto Shop in Portland for Repairs

At first it may seem like you’re saving yourself a lot of money by attempting to do these repairs at home, but it can easily go wrong. Without the proper skills, training, and tools you can do a lot of damage to your car and even put yourself in danger while trying to “fix” the problem.

Instead of trying to get your hands dirty, let the experts at Mcloughlin Chevrolet do the repairs. All car parts used at the Mcloughlin Chevrolet auto repair shop are high-quality and genuine. It is a promise that cars sent for repairs and maintenance come out looking and working like they’re brand new. Here you can always expect timely and professional services. We make sure all customers feel welcome, no matter what their car concerns may be.

"Honesty, Integrity is our No.1 Priority, When it comes to GM vehicles, you can count on us! " - Monty Eby (Service Director – McLoughlin Chevy)

Sources:

Five Car Problems You Shouldn’t Fix Yourself, TheCarConnection.com

Not So DIY: 6 Auto Repairs You Can’t Do Yourself, RCAutoSpecialists.com

Auto Service Technicians: Five Bad Habits That Are Racking Up Your Maintenance Expenses

As the years go by, you will no doubt develop certain habits while you operate your car. While a few of these mannerisms make driving more convenient for you, some might be causing damage to your car. You may then begin to wonder why your visits to your local mechanic is increasing in frequency. Professional auto service technicians serving Portland reveal the top five destructive quirks you should stop doing now.

Not Getting the Engine Warmed Up

Those of you who always run late when going to work or school are sometimes guilty of this. In your hurry to rev up the engine and pull out of the driveway, you are stressing out your engine and its components. Allow your engine at least 60 seconds to warm up after starting the car. This simple action helps along the distribution of oil and gets the oil temperature at the right level for optimum performance.

Ignoring the Check Engine Light

It’s safe to say that most inexperienced drivers are accustomed to doing this. After all, if the vehicle is still running well, why should one worry about the pesky blinking light on the dash? What they don’t know, however, is that a check engine light is a warning that should be taken seriously. Even a small problem like a loose gas cap can cause a staggering annual loss of 147 million gallons of gas due to its quicker evaporation.

Keeping a Hand on the Shifter

This one’s common for drivers who prefer cars with manual transmission. While that extra second you save when switching gears makes your drive a bit easier, it takes a toll on the transmission’s bushings and synchronizers. Over time, this leads to premature wear that could be expensive to fix. It’s best to keep both hands on the wheel if you don’t intend to change gears.

Letting the Tank Run Too Low

How often do you fill up the tank? If you’re one of those few car owners who like to drive until there’s less than a quarter fuel in the tank, then you are putting your fuel pump at risk. Many fuel pumps in cars today are kept cool by the fuel they are submerged in. If the tank’s always almost empty before you gas up again, there’s a big chance that you might need to replace the fuel pump in the near future. Keeping your car fueled up can really save you a lot of trouble.

Disregarding the Service Schedule

In your owner’s manual, you will find a preventative maintenance schedule. This sheet of paper is the key to keeping your car running efficiently for the longest time possible. It will also help you avoid the more expensive repairs you might encounter. Do your best not to miss your appointment with the technicians so they can inspect the essential parts and components in time. That said, you should also not neglect any warning signs you see when you drive. If there are strange vibrations and sounds, don’t hesitate to bring the car around.

About McLoughlin Chevrolet

McLoughlin Chevrolet is known around Portland for its extensive inventory of new and used Chevrolet and GM cars. In our dealership, we do everything to help buyers with their needs, whether it’s with financing or auto service. We can assist you with everything from routine maintenance to car trade-ins.

Sources:

Six Ways You Could be Killing Your Car, Edmunds.com

10 Bad Habits That Damage Your Car, PopulareMechanics.com

Telltale Signs It’s Time to Bring Your Car to an Auto Service Center for Maintenance

Your car is such an indispensible part of your daily life that it may seem unimaginable to spend a day without it. Because of frequent use, however, it’s impossible for your vehicle to avoid wear and tear. If you’re not keen on the signs pointing to the need for auto service care and repair, your car may end up in a much worse shape soon.

If you want to keep your car in top shape so that you can maximize its use for a long time, heed these basic but important car care and maintenance tips.

Recurring Transmission Problems

If you’ve been driving your car for a while, you must already be familiar with its quirks. You know every type of sound it makes, and the right feel of the engine running. When you feel something amiss as you turn it on or when you find difficulty shifting gears, it could be a sign that there is a problem. When the strange, unfamiliar sounds start up, don’t wait out any longer—take it to your trusted car care center immediately for a proper diagnosis. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2AeBcMf

Signs That You Need to Rush Your Car to a Buick Auto Service Center

Think of Buick service professionals as doctors who can diagnose a car’s illness. Of course, just because you said something was wrong about your car doesn’t mean they can immediately provide a solution without assessing the vehicle. They need to know the source of the problem to come up with the best fix. Otherwise, it’s just applying band aid to a wound that requires a complex treatment strategy.

While a Buick auto service center is always open to help you out, time is of the essence. You need to determine whether there’s an immediate need to have your car repaired or serviced. Knowing the symptoms of a failing car is necessary for you to provide the care it needs. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2yUtg1S

What You Should Know About Finding Auto Service for Your Still-Humming Hummer

Despite new technologies, cars still embody status. Just look at GM's Hummer, arguably the most iconic vehicle on the market just a decade ago. The herculean SUV warrior—oversized and gas-guzzling—saturated TV and movie screens during its production.

Of course, the Hummer never feigned to be a luxury vehicle. In fact, it burst onto the scenes in the '90s during Operation Desert Storm and the Persian Gulf War.

Yes, one of the most coveted cars in history cut its teeth in the battlefield. The sheer impracticality of buying a Hummer and adapting it as an everyday car served proof that one belonged to an elite circle of very well-to-do individuals.

Then the economic crisis hit. With people scaling back on their luxury purchases and opting for more practical vehicles, it wasn’t long before the plug on the Hummer was pulled. Sure, parent company GM tried to shop the brand around to would-be buyers, yet no one bit. By 2010, the last orders for the storied vehicle were filled and the stalwart was never to be manufactured again. Read more from this article: http://bit.ly/2vvoYOD

What, When, and Why: All You Need to Know About Auto Service Scheduling

Next to your house, your car is probably the second-most significant asset that you own. Just like your house, your car needs regular maintenance if you want to avoid damage and preserve its value.

The good news is that many car dealerships offer full auto service to Chevrolet, Cadillac and other GM owners like you. By keeping a regular schedule of service, minor niggles are addressed before they become major headaches.

However, many car owners neglect to take their vehicle for servicing because they don't pay attention to when such service is due. To make maintenance a regular part of your driving routine, heed a few of the following suggestions. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2te0c1T

Car Maintenance 101: Things You Need to Check During Regular Auto Service

Car maintenance doesn’t always involve spending a lot of money. In fact, simple maintenance routines such as checking tire pressure and adding air when necessary can be done at home. However, your car still needs to be sent to the dealer for periodic checks and maintenance even if everything seems just fine with your car. Sometimes, there are just issues that are not easily noticed unless the car is thoroughly inspected. A professional auto service technician is trained to observe the slightest abnormalities that could lead to failure.

Typically, a car should be serviced once or twice a year. Regular service is important to ensure the longevity of such parts as the engine, brakes, and tires and to help guarantee your car’s safety on the road. Without maintenance, your car is at risk of breaking down unannounced, and you may end up paying more than you planned. However, when you do take your car to be serviced, there are some things that you need to make sure are checked by the technician. Read on to find out what they are. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2sGac72

How Regular Auto Service and Safe Driving Tips May Help Prevent Car Accidents

Vehicular crashes are the top cause of injuries in the U.S., sending more than 2.5 million Americans to emergency rooms and causing more than $18 billion worth of lifetime healthcare costs in 2012. Automobile collisions have many causes, several of which you can avoid in order to reduce the risk of getting into an accident. Learn more about preventing vehicular collisions with these five basic practical tips.

Check if the Vehicle is in Good Condition

Give your car regular auto service maintenance. Complete maintenance services will check oil levels, the engine, car fluids, and brakes as well as ensure your tires and engine are in good condition. Some dealers also offer to check the battery for leaks or corrosion for free. If the vehicle is properly maintained, accident risks are significantly reduced.

Choose authorized dealers for your car’s brand. They have the latest diagnostic, maintenance, and repair tools. In addition, they employ manufacturer-certified expert technicians who have regularly updated technical skills. Thus they can deal with the latest models using proprietary tools and technologies to diagnose problems quickly and provide prompt and efficient auto services. Read more from this blog: http://bit.ly/2pfAtsj

Maintain Your Car’s AC and Avoid Surprise Visits to an Auto Service Center

Have you ever had your car's air conditioning system give up on you during a ride? If so, you understand how inconvenient it can be—in such close quarters such as a car cabin, things can get hot pretty quickly.

That's why keeping your AC in good working order is vital to prolonging the life of this crucial component. Avoid unnecessary repair jobs to your car's AC by following these simple maintenance tips.

Top it up

The most crucial element of your car's air conditioning system is freon, a gas that facilitates the heat transfer to cool the auto cabin. However, about 10% of this gas permeates from your AC system each year, and its capacity to keep passengers cool diminishes with every passing year. As such, motorists are advised to drop by an auto service center every two years to top up their AC's Freon levels. Read more from this blog. http://bit.ly/2mXATx7