The coming of winter in New Hampshire means preparing your vehicle. Knowing that it will be at its best to handle all of the perils of winter driving will bring the peace of mind you need as a driver. As every hearty and experienced New Englander knows, driving in the winter can be fraught with the unexpected as snow and ice on the road. Thus, preparing with the proper steps, like have your brakes in Nashua checked, will ensure preparedness.
Involve an Auto Repair Specialist
Check in with your auto repair specialist as soon as possible to schedule a thorough vehicle inspection. Taking the time to check out all of the vehicle’s equipment and systems, your mechanic will provide optimal safety for you and your family. If there is any question regarding the safety and working condition of a part or a system, it is always best to err on the side of caution, especially as winter approaches.
The Importance of Fluid Checks & Storage
Your anti-freeze, or coolant, is one element every driver needs during the winter. Your auto repair technician can test your 50/50 coolant mixture and determine if it should be replaced. Furthermore, they will check your lines and flush the radiator system to guarantee that you have heat when you need it, and that your vehicle doesn’t overheat.
Your wipers, of course, are critical to winter driving as well. Swapping them out for a new pair will provide the cleanest windshield possible during the slushy months. The small cost will far outweigh the benefits of increased visibility should you be driving home in a snowstorm. In that vein, your windshield washer tank should, also, be full during the winter. Having an extra gallon handy in your truck is a great way to be stay prepared. Here, too, your auto repair specialist can check the entire system to make certain you will have clear visibility when you need it.
Brakes and Tires Prevent Catastrophe
Perhaps the most important of winter preparations will be to inspect the condition of your tires and brakes. Air pressure changes during the winter. Your trusted mechanic will test the current conditions and advise how to proceed for the future.
In addition, your mechanic will inspect the condition of both your tires and your brakes. Worn tires will cause a loss of traction and can easily blow out. This, in combination with failing brakes, will affect your ability to handle your vehicle with proper accuracy.
To schedule your Nashua brake inspection, along with a full-service overview, contact your favorite auto mechanic in Nashua, RK Auto. We’re here to help keep you and your family safe during the winter! (603) 595-7575
As anyone who lives in New England can tell you, there’s a significant difference between driving your car in the summer and driving in the winter. Aside from the frost on your windows and ice on the roads, the cold weather impacts how the different parts of your vehicle work. If you don’t let your car warm up before taking off, you may end up searching for auto repair in Nashua NH.
How Brakes Work
It seems simple. You press on the brakes, and your car slows down. This is a process of cause and effect. You step on the brake pedal, and the brakes apply hydraulic pressure to the brake pads, so they press against the rotor. This slows the vehicle down. One thing to be remembered is that energy isn’t created or destroyed, only converted into heat. The heat is released through the vents in the rotor. When it’s cold outside, the process remains the same but with different results.
Cold Weather
The energy that moved your car is converted to heat through friction. Friction, in turn, results in heat. Brakes can become so so hot that they stay heated long after you’ve turned your car off. Heavy braking can result in brake fade over time. On cold days, you won’t experience any difference in brake performance. However, the lifespan of your brakes will be affected. Because cold days often come with wet roads, the moisture acts as a lubricant on your tires. This allows them to heat up at accelerated rates. So, your brake pads will wear away faster, forcing you to seek auto repair in Nashua NH.
Living in New England means that winter is unavoidable. The cold weather shows up around mid-October and sticks around until mid-March. Knowing how the cold affects the maintenance of your car is essential for any responsible driver. It can help you to avoid accidents. When you do need auto repair in Nashua NH, contact RK Auto at 603-595-7575 or visit us online.
Safety is of the utmost priority any time you set foot behind the wheel. Being inattentive to the inner workings of your car can lead us to become complacent. It isn’t always the easiest to tell when your vehicle needs to get to an auto mechanic in Nashua, but it’s something to be aware of. Broken parts can lead to hazardous situations for you and other drivers. A safety feature of primary importance is your brakes. Without brakes, cars cannot go on the road, no questions asked. Over time, brakes can wear and need replacements. Here are five signs that your brakes may need an upgrade.
Looking
Humankind was given their five sense for a reason. The best way to get a feel for the environment around is to use your sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. When it comes to your brakes, sight is going to be super helpful. You can look at the brake pads through the spokes in your wheel. There should be about a ¼ inch of padding there. Any less means you need to see an auto mechanic in Nashua.
Less Response
Response time is the key to safe braking. You need to know that you can stop on a dime in case of unexpected circumstances. You never know when a child can run into a road, so your car needs to respond accordingly. If you notice the response time of your brakes getting longer, your brakes may need replacing.
Pulling
Pulling refers to the action of your car moving more toward one side. When you brake, your vehicle should stop evenly on both sides. Sometimes people find they move more toward one side than the other when they step on their brakes. This can be a sign that your brakes pads have worn unevenly and need replacing.
Grinding
This is where another sense will play a role in identifying brake problems. You shouldn’t be able to hear your brakes bringing your car to a stop. Sometimes over the years, brakes start to make a grinding and growling sound. Listening for this can let you know it’s time to visit an auto mechanic in Nashua for brake replacement.
Vibrating
Another common result of old brakes is vibrating. The point of a car is to run smoothly and comfortably. As brakes wear down, it takes more effort to stop your tires. The pressure of the brakes can rub and lead to vibrations as you stop. Get your brakes checked as soon as you feel vibrations to prevent accidents and collisions.
Every driver should put vehicular safety at the top of their to-do lists. For any trouble with your brakes, visit an auto mechanic in Nashua. Contact RK Auto at 603-595-7575 or visit them online.
When searching for quality auto repair service, you want to be sure that the shop you choose will be sure to assist you properly. If they are unable to provide you with excellent quality service, then your results will not be high caliber.
It is important to know what an auto repair shop needs to best assist the public – and how that helps you in the long run. Observe a few essential components below, and always rely on RK Auto Repair for auto repair in Nashua, NH.
A Knowledgable Staff
Having a staff that is experienced, friendly, and knowledgable is key. Customers do not want to deal with any staff members that are potentially hostile or do not know what they are doing with the processes.
Extensive knowledge helps the customer beyond the one repair itself: if a customer is able to rely on an expert, they will be able to call on them for plenty of repairs in the future. Experts are key to proper and efficient service.
Proper Equipment
Using outdated equipment for repairs is not going to repair the vehicle properly. Strong, current equipment is going to work best for all types of repairs that you may have.
The more vehicles change and contain new parts, the more often technology must adapt and be serviceable. Be sure that the repair shop you use has the tools available to make your repair run smoothly and correctly.
Friendly Atmosphere
Someone may be one of the most knowledgable experts in the world, but a bad personality will draw customers away from the get-go. Even if they do a good job, you will not want to deal with consistent attitude problems.
Be sure that the staff you are dealing with is happy to assist you, and answer any possible questions you may have. Customer relations are important, and you want to have a good relationship with your mechanic.
Affordable Prices
Though mechanical services are not cheap, it is important to have affordable options. Whether this is cheaper and just as effective services or deals for loyal customers, saving money is a great bonus when you call a mechanic for service.
The pricing should also be fairly adjusted for industry standards, as well. If you need to do some comparisons, feel free so you can be sure that the amount you are paying makes sense.
Certification
Taking care of vehicles requires plenty of dedication and patience. Schooling and education are necessary for a complete understanding of how to repair vehicles and their parts.
A good auto repair shop should not even be open unless there are certifications for every mechanic that works there. They have to be educated, or they will not be able to take care of your vehicle in the most efficient manner. Safety regulations are also imperative, and should be up to code.
Finding the right auto repair shop requires a few considerations. Be sure to take care of the details before settling on someone you trust with your vehicle, and you will have quality service.
You can expect this kind of proper auto repair in Nashua, NH from RK Auto Repair. Give them a call at (603)-595-7575!
When it comes to custom exhaust in NH, it is of particular importance to know the warning signs. The exhaust consists of the catalytic converter, muffler, and exhaust, and if one goes, they all can go. They are a pretty penny to replace. It is pertinent that you know these warning signs!
Noise
Most exhausts don’t make too much noise. Depending on the muffler you have, there will be slight noise, or you shouldn’t be able to hear the sound at all. That is why if you notice that it is getting louder, closer to a motorcycle than a car, it is important that you take it into the shop and get it checked. Any noise different than normal should be a warning sign.
Rattling at stops
You should not feel your car vibrating at a red light. Whether you feel the hesitation or little pops when you go to start or feel as though your car is slowing down on top of the rattling when you don’t move (or there is no reason for it), you need to call the shop. It could mean that the catalytic converter has an issue and it is better to repair the most expensive machinery than replacing it.
Engine vibration
Are you feeling a vibration in your pedal? That is not right, especially if there has never been any vibration before. It could mean that your engine is vibrating as well. If you hear a rumbling as you start, accelerate, or anything else, it could be that there is a leak causing your engine to work twice as hard. It is a scary thing to feel the vibrations on the steering wheel.
Increased gas pump visits
Are you suddenly filling up every three days rather than once a week? Well, this could mean that your O2 sensor isn’t able to read what is passing through the motor and out of the car. When the O2 sensor cannot get proper readings on what is happening with the exhaust, it could automatically gauge that more oxygen passes, meaning that more gas will be eaten up for no reason. Any time you notice that you are going through more gas than normal for a similar amount of trips, make it to the shop soon!
As with any auto repair in Nashua, NH, pay attention to your car. You know your vehicle the best, and if there is something weird going on, call the dealer or RK Auto to get it observed. It is better to find out it is nothing compared to breaking down and needing to pay thousands.
RK Auto will treat you right, like family, every time you call. If you have any problems with your custom exhaust in NH, reach out by calling (603)-595-7575, and we can help you out.
As we switch over from snow tires to our regular tires, it is time to determine if it is time for you to get new tires for the season. Tires are the key to making sure you make it to your destination safely. Balding tires can lead to grip issues on the road, especially during inclement weather. The good thing is there are some easy ways for you to tell if it is time for you to buy new tires in Nashua.
The Penny Test
Everyone knows about the penny test. If you don’t, well, you will learn today! The penny test is very simple to administer on your own. All you need is a penny. Take it with Lincoln’s head upside down and insert it into the tread of the tire. If the tread covers Lincoln’s forehead, then your treads are okay. On the opposite end, if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it is time for new tires. It is important that you test every tire, though. Each tire could wear differently, especially if there is a wheel misalignment. If this is the case, you should make an appointment to replace the tires and get a proper alignment.
Tire Cracks
While you are doing your penny test, also see if there are any cracks in the tires. They could happen from weather and temperature and are a sign that you could need to switch out your tires soon.
Tread markers
In newer tires today, some markers are a part of the tire itself. These rubber additions run across the tire from side to side. They are perpendicular to the usual treads of the tires, and if they are flush with the casing, then it is time to replace. That means that the treads are very low.
Bald tires
It is the most dangerous tire to drive on. Bald tires have zero traction on them. It is important that you do not let your tires get to this level, but if they do, bring them in to get switched out as soon as possible.
Tire Pressure
It is more of a preventative measure, and also something that could contribute to balding tires. The tire pressure will naturally decrease over time. However, it is important for you to check the tire pressure, as driving in warm weather with an under-inflated tire can lead to more heat from the tires, and a faster wear out. Especially after winter, check the tire pressure since the cold can mess with it.
Tires in Nashua are fast and easy to replace. They are a necessary evil when it comes to maintaining your vehicle. RK Auto works on many customers, and we would like you to come into our shop for all of your tire needs. Whether you need two wheels replaced or all four, we can work with you to determine what you need. Our customers are family, and that makes a difference in our service. Call us today (603)-595-7575 to schedule an appointment with us!
There are many month long celebrations in the world: Black History Month, National Women’s History Month, BBQ Month, and even Golf Month. Each of these happens, some for historical reasons, others for more frivolous reasons. So, why would you not have a month dedicated to making sure that your car is getting the care that it needs? Car Care Month is not only one month but two months. If your vehicle is not kept up with, then you could run the risk of falling into a dangerous road. That is why the month is the best time to remind you of the common maintenance your car needs.
What are the two months to consider car care?
The two different time frames chosen for National Car Care Month are the beginning of spring and the middle of fall. These two times are the transitional periods between the two seasons when you should fix any issues that could potentially harm your car’s performance for the next few months. That is why we chose April and October to pay particular attention to the auto repair in Nashua, NH for your vehicle.
Why did they choose April?
That is a good question, and carcare.org has answered why they decided April was one of the months for Car Care Awareness. April is typically the first month that spring tends to come in full swing. Especially in New Hampshire, where a rogue snowstorm can happen at any time, it is important to remember that with the last melting of snow, there are a lot of things that your car will need. Washing your car, anything that may have gone wrong in the cold of winter, and even the worry of new issues that are coming with the spring rains, it is important to make sure you are up to date.
Why choose October?
The other month selected for car care month is October, similar to the reason that they chose April. With the end of summer and the start of winter, it is time to start winterizing your car and making sure that you are ready for the snow to come. It could mean getting snow tires in Nashua or any other needs that have to get done, such as brake and exhaust issues. Having a safe car in the winter is key to being able to continue the same mobility that you had during the summer months.
When we get into the full swing of the summer months, it is important to remember that auto repair in Nashua, NH should not be limited to these two months that we commemorate. In fact, you should follow your maintenance schedule for your vehicle rather than trying to make your own. Your car will thank you if you take good care of it, and you will be able to get more time with your vehicle.
At RK Auto, we like to remind you that with Car Care Month, it is time to review your car’s needs for monthly and yearly maintenance. From oil changes to tire rotations, it is important to remember that your car depends on you as much as you count on it. So, for any needs, call RK Auto at (603)-595-7575 to make sure that your vehicle keeps you going.
With April in our midst, that means plenty of showers to allow for the flowers of May to bloom in beauty. The important thing to remember, though, is that the water needs somewhere to go. The water will not always drain into sewers or drainage ditches on the side of the road. Sometimes you will come across some puddles. The scary thing is, they can be deeper than they look and cause hydroplaning. It is important to know how to handle these scenarios because if you lose control, you could end up having to get some costly auto repair in Nashua, NH when you didn’t expect it.
What is hydroplaning?
If you have ever been driving and felt a little skid over some water, you have experienced hydroplaning. While it is scary to witness, once you know what happens, it can help the experience. When you hydroplane, you go over water that your tires cannot adequately disperse to get traction on the road. The loss of traction causes the skidding and sliding of the tires on the surface which is the long and short of hydroplaning. Typically, when you hydroplane, you lose control of steering and brakes. It is why many accidents happen in the rain.
When the water mixes with oil, it increases the chances that the wheel will not be able to break through the water and receive the traction that it needs. As you drive along the road, you will be able to skid on the water more if you are going faster on the road, which is why it is a good idea to slow down during the rain, especially if it is heavy.
How to stay safe on the road?
There are a few standard rules to follow when it comes to staying safe during a rain storm. Avoiding a costly auto repair in Nashua, NH while practicing these habits means that your wallet will thank you later.
- Be careful at the start of the rain storm. When the rain first falls, it can stir up oil and things that could be slippery. It is best to slow down when the rain stops, especially if you aren’t sure of the road conditions.
- Properly inflated tires are essential to being able to control the vehicle as well. Your tires should stay inflated to the proper psi at all times. Lack of proper psi could mean they have low traction. Also, check the treads and keep the tires rotated correctly.
- Slow down for your wheels to continue to maintain traction on the road. The faster you go, the more likely you are not to scatter the water.
- Follow the cars in front of you. Following the tail lights will ensure that you stay in lines during torrential rains, but also you are following in the tire treads through the already established water.
- Avoid puddles and lanes that tend to accumulate pools of water. You never know how deep they are and what is underneath.
- Don’t slam on the brake or make hard turns. When you do that, you are more likely to skid than if you were to take it slow.
There are ways to pull yourself out of the skid once you get into it as well.
- Understand what is going on with the skid. Know that if you start getting pulled in various directions, you could be hydroplaning.
- Relax and wait for it to stop (which is easier said than done). Avoid slamming on your breaks and take your foot off the gas slowly.
- Steer in the proper direction slowly. Ease into the direction you want to go. Don’t just jerk on the wheel. Then slowly brake by pumping, never make any jerky or fast motions if possible.
If you follow these tips and tricks when you find yourself hydroplaning, then you could save yourself from disaster. If something does go wrong, however, you have the folks at RK Auto to help you with any auto repair in Nashua, NH you may need. Give us a call the next time you need a qualified mechanic at (603)-595-7575.
A lot of customization can lead to your dream car, but it is important to know your costs financially and physically. Always consult with a mechanic before you begin your customization journey. Furthermore, keep an eye out for these accessories that can easily damage your car if you use them to make your car look cool.
Observe a few of them below. If your car needs some TLC beyond customization, consult RK Auto Repair for some of the best auto repair in Nashua, NH.
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Tinted Windows
Not only are they heavily scrutinized by the law and illegal if abused, they are also dangerous. Tinted windows may look kind of edgy, but come with very big risk once they are installed.
Darker windows can distort and limit visibility, which can lead to poor vision. Poor vision is a recipe for terrible accidents on the road. If you are going to go for it, install them in your back windows – that way, you can have the cool look you want without affecting your driving seat vision.
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Colorful Fog Lights
This also ties in to visibility. Having standard issue fog lights will allow you to be seen in dark, limited visibility situations. It is important to keep them bright and tuned up. White lights are best, since they are able to properly cut through fog with scientific accuracy.
Yellow fog lights are often considered, but are in poor taste. They are unable to shine as bright or cut through fog as well as white lights, and will limit your light’s visibility. Other cars in traffic are not going to see dim lights, so modified fog lights are a visibility hindrance at best, and an accident waiting to happen at worst.
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Televisions
It’s true: car trips can be long, tedious, and boring if you do not have the proper enthusiasm or entertainment. However, the remedy to boredom should not come with safety risk. While a television installation may seem like top-quality, cutting-edge entertainment for passengers, it is not safe.
Even if they are behind the driver’s seat, these screens can distract the driver. Loud noise levels can cause a driver to lose focus and not properly hear any hazards that could appear on the road. Keep the Netflix to portable mediums like iPads or laptops.
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Blackout Kits
These also deal with headlights. Blackout kits are made to cover up your headlights slightly, and are able to mask the visibility and brightness of headlights. This is extremely dangerous.
It is important to be visible and have a reliable, strong light source, especially in darker driving conditions. Not to mention these kits are illegal, so legal consequences are at play here as well. If you want to get your headlights looking right, go to RK Auto for great auto repair in Nashua, NH.
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Lift Kits
Making a car look tall and detached from its wheels is one of the more unique ways of customization. This requires a lift kit, which will lift the body up and make the car more top heavy.
Get ready for some quick physics: a top heavy vehicle is bound to flip. The heaviness on top will cause the bottom to not pick up the slack, and throw off the center of gravity.
Keeping a vehicle balanced is key, and the natural mechanics of a vehicle should not be tampered with.
Be sure to avoid these dangerous accessories. If you need some work done on your vehicle, it is always best to talk to the professionals. For any time you need auto repair in Nashua, NH, call RK Auto Repair at (603) 595-7575!
Routine maintenance on your vehicle seems a bit annoying or unnecessary, but it pays off in your vehicle’s wellness. When you are making a trip to the mechanic, it is important to make the most out of your visit.
Below, observe some ways you can make your visit to the shop even more worthwhile. For quality auto repair in Nashua, NH, you can rely on RK Auto Repair.
1.) Look for Deals
You might as well save some extra money while you are there. If the shop is offering any deals, make note of them.
Should they apply to you, or the services you require, take advantage! Saving some unexpected money is always a good way to make your day.
2.) Bring Up Concerns
Just because you are in the shop for a specific service does not mean you cannot address anything else. While you are getting your scheduled fix, feel free to speak with your mechanic. A friendly mechanic is more than willing to help, and the staff at RK Auto Repair have the customer service and experience to offer some great auto repair in Nashua, NH.
If you have noticed any issues or side effects with your vehicle that affects your driving, be sure to let them know. It is better to mention it and have your concerns addressed than let it go unseen and having to come back to the shop.
3.) Ask for Quick Services
Is your tire a bit under inflated? Maybe some spark plugs sound great to you, but you have no idea where to start? A visit to the mechanic can be quite beneficial.
If you have some parts that are easy and quick to install, let the mechanic know ahead of time. Call them before your visit, and you should be able to have these parts added to your vehicle with ease. They’re the experts, after all, and can assist!
4.) See if They Have Contacts
If you are looking for a new auto part shop, or someone who is an expert at detailing and vehicle art, a mechanic can be a great resource. They may be experts on all things involved with vehicles, but they could know people who are more suited for the artistic and custom side of things.
Be sure to mention these planned endeavors, and see how your mechanic can help you. With luck, they just may be able to do it themselves.
5.) Make Sure Everything is Up to Date
Part of being a responsible vehicle owner is making sure that everything is up to code. You want to be sure all of your vehicle’s parts are strong, and think of anything that could be expired.
Should you need an inspection or safety test of any kind, your visit is a great opportunity to address these concerns and schedule your next appointment to take care of things. You will be able to book it on the spot, and be sure that the issues are going to be addressed while they are on your mind.
Going to the mechanic may seem like a tedious task, but it can really be beneficial for you and your vehicle if you make the most of it.
Follow the tips above, and make an appointment with RK Auto Repair the next time you require auto repair in Nashua, NH. Give them a call at (603)-595-7575!