Did you know that some of the best mechanics in NH are not licensed to perform NH state inspections? It’s true that shops need to undergo and adhere to specific guidelines in order to be a state approved inspection station. Lucky for you, your favorite shop, RK Auto Repair, is one of those auto shops!
So, when the yearly task of inspecting your vehicle rolls around, be sure to come visit our team. Worried that your car or truck may not pass? Here is what you can expect during a routine inspection and emission testing:
Inspection process
A licensed inspection station should adhere to a specific list of items for testing. These tests are considered the physical safety portion of the inspection process. Below is a list of those items:
- A valid registration and VIN must be obtained. Your inspection sticker, if a pass, will hold the same month date as the registration.
- Steering and front end suspension
- Brakes
- Electrical system
- Horn
- Ensuring all lights are operational and aiming correctly
- Exhaust system
- Fuel system
- Tires and wheels
Although this a broad list. You can find further information through the Division of Motor Vehicles on exact testing and what your mechanic will be inspecting.
Emissions testing
Another necessary part of a state inspection is the emissions testing. This test must be performed on all vehicles less than 20 years old. This test will help to determine the amount of pollutants being released by the vehicle into the environment. Items include functioning gas caps and a measurement of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrocarbons. If a vehicle fails emissions, all repairs must be performed before a sticker is issued.
With over 2,000 licensed inspection stations across the state of New Hampshire, choosing which one to visit can be overwhelming. Here at RK Auto Repair, we’ve been considered one of the best mechanics in NH for a reason. Our team will perform an honest inspection. Beyond the inspection, if your vehicle requires repairs, we’ll make the best recommendations with the best prices around. Schedule your next inspection with us by calling (603) 595-7575.
Repairing and maintaining your vehicle are not tasks that should be left in the hands of ill-informed mechanics. Because your vehicle is an investment that you rely on each day, you need to be confident in the team that performs your service. Lucky for you, our knowledgeable staff here at RK Auto Repair has the expertise to ensure your job is done right the first time, every time. Versatility is our specialty, making us the home to some of the best mechanics in NH. Here are a few of the quality services you can expect with each visit.
NH State Inspection
Is your car or truck older than 1996? If so, our experts will perform an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) test to check if your vehicle can adequately self-diagnose problems or malfunctions. In addition, our technicians will complete an emissions test and thorough inspection of your vehicle. This will assure all systems and functions are safe and running properly, no matter the age or condition of your car or truck.
Brake Repair
Although every component of your vehicle plays an integral part in your safety, breaks are at the top of the list. Our ASE Certified mechanics inspect all regions and areas of your brake system for wear and tear. This allows us to correctly identify any existing, or potential issues and make the proper repairs. The quality work of the best mechanics in NH at RK Auto Repair assures that your brakes will function at optimal levels ensuring the safety of all.
Exhaust Repair
To keep your car running at its best, a healthy exhaust system is crucial. No crack or hole goes undetected with the thorough inspections by our knowledgeable mechanics. This comprehensive process simplifies the detection and repair of your exhaust system, getting you back on the road quickly and safely.
Fleet Maintenance
Another bonus of entrusting your auto needs to RK Auto, is our ability to service your fleet. We understand that maintenance and repairs on fleet vehicles can be a costly expense. However, with the appropriate measures and timely maintenance routine, you can ensure a cost-efficient investment. RK Auto’s fleet maintenance service does all the hard work for you with gentle reminders, comprehensive inspections, and exhaust expense reports to keep your fleet in top shape while maintaining low operating costs.
Fully licensed and insured, our team of experts looks forward to assisting you with your vehicle needs. For more information, or to schedule your appointment with one of the best mechanics in NH, call RK Auto at 603-595-7575.
Your vehicle is a valuable resource that shouldn’t be trusted to just anyone for its maintenance and repairs. However, looking for quality auto repair in New Hampshire can be an overwhelming process. When looking for a trusted auto mechanic, there are a few things to consider. For instance, the quality service and 30 plus years of experience at RK Auto make them a trusted name. Here are a few other reasons why you should make RK Auto Repair your go-to for all of your automotive needs.
Family-Owned & Operated
RK Auto treats everyone like family because we are family. Our auto shop has been family owned and operated since our inception. This little fact is one of the main elements that sets us apart from the rest. We work to provide each and every customer with the maintenance they need, and the customer service they deserve.
Competitive Pricing
Providing quality automotive service at an affordable price is the key to our customer’s satisfaction. Dealerships and other auto body shops can overcharge and under deliver when it comes to your car’s needs and maintenance. RK Auto brings you competitive pricing on the car services we provide, which can save you hundreds on every visit. Our mechanics are available to provide you with a free estimate on any service prior to repair. Further, they are always available to answer any questions you may have. Lower repair costs without any hidden surprises are what you can expect at RK Auto.
Automotive Resources
Getting back on the road in a timely manner is vital to both you and the team at RK Auto. While your car is being repaired, we offer transportation, or even a loaner, to help get you where you need to go. This trust and commitment can’t be found with every auto mechanic in Nashua, but RK Auto makes sure to assist their customers in every possible. Going above and beyond, we take pride in the level of customer service our shop provides.
Next time you’re in need of auto repair in the Nashua NH area, call RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575.
At one time or another, we’ve all had to bring our vehicles in for repair. From simple fixes to more complicated issues; auto repair in Nashua NH keeps professionals busy! This article highlights the top reasons one may find themselves visiting local experts, like RK Auto Repair.
SCRATCHES
Because life happens, scratches are a major reason for many auto repair visits. Whether your visit is due to the shopping cart set free from some uncaring shopper, or your child turning their metal bike handle a little too late; scratches happen. Some scratches are easily buffed out while others may be a bit more labor intensive. Either way, your auto repair shop will be able to give you an estimate before work begins.
DENTS
Similarly, dents are a common reason to bring your vehicle into the shop. Whether it is from a careless error of backing into something, or perhaps you were in an accident, a trip to your local repair shop can fix most dents. Like scratches, the severity of the damage will determine the total cost.
CRACKED WINDSHIELDS
No matter where you live, cracked windshields can happen for several different reasons. One of the biggest causes of a cracked windshield comes with highway driveway. Often, vehicles passing you by will kick-up road debris sending it ricocheting towards your glass. Best case is that your vehicle has a hairline crack. This type of crack is relatively simple to repair. However, deeper cracks from accidents or other types of damage may require a full replacement.
AIR CONDITIONING
In New England, we go from using our heaters to turning on the air conditioning. Thus, spring and summer is often the busiest time of year for a/c work. From a simple recharge to a full a/c replacement, auto repair shops will have you cooled down in no time at all!
BRAKES
Wear and tear on the brake pads is an inevitable thing. However, the good news is that this type of repair is typically less expensive than other types. However, if your brakes require disc, drum, or rotor repair; you may be looking at a couple of hundred dollars.
OIL CHANGES
The most frequent, and most common, reason to visit your auto repair shop is for routine maintenance. For instance, an oil change should occur every 5,000 miles to keep a healthy engine. It is also essential to keep your records. If you go to sell the vehicle, people want to know what they’re buying has been taken care of.
If your vehicle requires attention for any reason, consider RK Auto for all of your auto repair in Nashua, NH. Fully licensed and insured, our team of professional experts has been voted the “Best Mechanic” in the Hippo, twice! Visit us online or give us a call at (603) 595-7575. \lsdlocked0
At one time or another, we have all experienced the need for auto repair services. Whether small or big, many of cringe at the thought of having to bring our vehicle into the shop. However, if you’re looking for auto repair in New Hampshire and search out your local auto repair shops, the process doesn’t have to be so painful. Local repair shops, like RK Auto Repair, offer many benefits that dealerships no longer provide to the consumer.
Convenience
Not only is your local repair shop around the corner, but they are also a one-stop shop servicing all of your vehicles needs. From oil changes to exhaust system repairs, local shops can handle most concerns without the hassle. Another added benefit is that your appointment and turn-around time is typically faster than that of a dealership.
Personal Attention
There is something to be said about friendly, personalized service. As a consumer, when you walk through the door and are greeted with a genuine smile and referred to by name you’re left feeling great inside. By utilizing the services of your local auto repair shop, you can be sure that not only your name, but your vehicle will be known. Thus, you’re left feeling that you are in good hands. Further, this type of service will save you time. Without having to repeat your vehicles concerns to each new face, your local shop will remember for you.
Dependability
Much dependent on word-of-mouth, repair shops strive to provide top-notch service to their customers in hopes that their name will be passed on. Chances are, if your friend or family does recommend a local auto repair shop to you, you’ll check them out. Why is this? Because you trust the person that referred you. However, you would not have been referred to if the auto repair shop wasn’t dependable. In today’s busy world, nobody has time to go back and forth on issues that should be adequately corrected the first time. Being dependable ensures customers not only come back time and time again but refer to you to their friends and family.
Budget Friendly
Although dealerships have mastered the wow factor in appearance and staffing numbers, it comes at a cost. The overhead of a local auto repair shop is typically must less than that of a dealership. Thus, lower operating costs mean lower repair costs.
Next time you require auto repair in New Hampshire, consider RK Auto Repair. With over 30 years of trusted experience, the team at RK Auto is fully licensed and insured. Providing free estimates and loaner cars, RK Auto Repair is sure to make your next auto repair service a pleasant one. Visit them online or call today to schedule your next appointment (603) 595-7575. \lsdpriori
One thing you can count on is that your vehicle will not be shy when it comes to letting you know it needs exhaust repair. As one of the most worked components in your vehicle, the exhaust manifold is the most common area in need of repair. The constant heating and cooling creates expansion and contraction in the manifold. Thus, manifolds have been known to commonly crack over time. However, there are several components when dealing with an exhaust system. RK Auto Repair knows exhaust repair in NH. Below, RK Auto has created a list of four tell-tale signs that your vehicle’s exhaust system requires a little TLC.
Rumbles and Hissing
One of the most noticeable signs that you may need exhaust repair services is the presence of unusual sounds. Loud rumbles or hissing are commonly heard by vehicle owners if there is a leak in the manifold. This type of leak can increase engine volume. Although other components of the exhaust system can lead to increased volume, the manifold tends to be the most common.
Foul Smelling Fumes
Another component of your exhaust system is the catalytic converter. This component helps to transform harmful pollutant gases into less harmful ones. Thus, if the converter goes, you may be sitting in some pretty foul smelling fumes on your ride across town. Often associated with a sulfur smell, when a catalytic converter goes, you can be sure you’ll know. Another sign of a failed converter could be rattling noises from under the vehicle.
Decrease in Fuel Efficiency
Perhaps you’re finding yourself at the gas pump more often than usual. A leaky exhaust system makes it harder for your engine to power the vehicle. Thus, you will find a decrease in fuel efficiency may occur. Be sure to pay special attention to your vehicle’s performance when you step on the gas pedal. If you notice any type of lag, it may be time to call your local auto repair shop.
Loud Noises
Even if you’ve never heard of the above-mentioned components, chances are you know what a muffler is. As part of the exhaust system, your vehicle’s muffler helps to reduce emissions and noise. Cracks in your muffler can become a serious concern as you and your passengers may no longer be protected from hazardous fumes such as carbon monoxide.
If any of these things are happening with your vehicle, consider contacting RK Auto Repair for the best exhaust repair in NH. The experienced team can detect even the slightest crack or potential problem with their high-tech diagnostic systems. Visit RK Auto Repair online to learn more on how they can help your vehicle.
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.
October is the month where all the fun of the fall takes place. The weather is still warm enough to head to the pumpkin patches and corn mazes. Halloween is right around the corner, and you’re having a blast planning your costume for the festivities. However, as fun as October can be, there are some hazards that come with the fall. The biggest thing to keep in mind is that driving conditions change with the seasons. Before you get into an accident and need to find auto repair in Nashua NH, take note of the hazards that come with driving at this time of year.
Animals
2018 was quite the year for roadkill. The reproduction rate in squirrels was at an all-time high, meaning their food supply couldn’t sustain them. Critters like squirrels, raccoons, chipmunks, and others that compete for nuts have been taking to the road and dying as a result. Watching out for their bodies, so your car doesn’t slide. Also, deer like to wander about in the fall. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for animals this fall.
Leaves
Sure, the leaves this time of year are beautiful. The golds and reds in the tree are almost enough to keep you from remembering they’re just dying. As the leaves die and fall to the ground, they clump together and create slick surfaces on the road. If you hit a patch of leaves, especially wet leaves, you may lose control of your vehicle. Be safe to avoid needing auto repair in Nashua NH.
Rain
The spring and the fall are New England’s primary wet seasons. Sure, the winter has snow, but that’s more miserable than wet. The rain in the falls can come in quick and leave the streets slippery. Even worse, the rain can come and decide not to leave, worsening visibility for drivers.
Pedestrians
Safe drivers are always looking out for pedestrians in the road. Sometimes you’re lucky enough to see PED XING signs, or crosswalks to let you know if an area has high foot traffic. Still, kids are back in school and trick-or-treaters are coming sooner rather than later.
Distracted driving can results in accidents and collisions on the road. With fall fully underway, you need to know what to look out for in the street. If you do need auto repair in Nashua NH, contact RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575 or visit them online!
As you drive your car, the engine runs and heats up as it does. As the engine runs, it can reach temperatures of over 500° Celsius. Overworking your engine can cause your car to overheat and break down. Luckily, your car is equipped with a coolant system to keep your engine temperature in check. Of course, just like any part of your vehicle, your coolant system can get damaged over the years. If you’re worried about your car’s coolant system, consider getting auto repair in Nashua. Here are three warning signs that your coolant system may need to be checked.
Leaking
A warning sign of low coolant levels is white smoke coming from your exhaust. Yes, you will always see smoke coming from your exhaust, but the smoke to look out for will be thick and white. This is an indicator that there is a leak in your coolant system, allowing the heat to burn up your antifreeze. Another sign of a leak will be pooling of a green substance under your car. No puddle is too small. If you ignore a small puddle, chances are the leak will get worse. In instances of white smoke and green puddles, consider auto repair in Nashua.
Sweet Smell
While sweet smells can be a sign of good things like cookies or fruit, a sweet smell in the cabin of your car is not. Not to say an air freshener isn’t a good idea, but an unusual, sweet smell popping up should raise a red flag. Antifreeze smells sweet, and the scent can waft into your car if your coolant system is leaking or overheating. When a sweet smell pops up in your car, get to a mechanic to run diagnostics on your coolant system.
Steam
500° Celsius is the equivalent of 932° Fahrenheit. The average person starts complaining at around 83° Fahrenheit. This extreme temperature can cause your engine to overheat and release steam if your coolant system isn’t running correctly. The moment you notice white smoke or steam coming from the hood of your vehicle, pull over immediately. This is a surefire sign you need auto repair in Nashua.
You’ve heard the phrase “A car is worth more than the sum of its parts,” but your car isn’t worth much if those parts aren’t functional. Your coolant system is a necessity when it comes to keeping your engine at a manageable temperature while driving. If you notice any of these three sings, find auto repair in Nashua. Contact RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575 or visit them online today.
Whether it’s because the place you go to for repairs is closing, you’re dissatisfied with the service, or some other reason you need to find a new repair shop, it’s crucial to locate a shop that’s well worth your time. You’ll see that when you need auto repair in Nashua, NH it’s better to seek a family-owned shop like RK Auto Repair for several reasons. Bigger names may be more convenient, but there are benefits unique to local shops you’ll love.
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Personal customer service
Better-known names do care about customers, but there are so many of them that it can be hard to make each interaction personal. When you visit a local shop, you get to have much more face time with employees or owners of the facility. They have more room to talk to you and provide details about the work they do, so you can feel like you get the attention you need. RK Auto Repair always strives to make customer service a priority, and we always will.
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Deep passion
Now, we’re not saying that every person who works at a big-name auto repair shop dislikes their work. That’d be an unfair and untrue assumption to make! Still, there’s no denying that local garages come from the owner(s)s’ heart. They have a strong passion they love enough to build an entire business form it. That dedication ensures that you get quality service and understanding every time.
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Location
Sometimes, even well-known brands don’t have spots in your town. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t mean you have to give up on searching for auto repair in Nashua, NH. Shopping local will ensure that you find a garage that is close to you and is much easier for you to get to when you need it. If the visit is successful, you’ll have a solution that is local that you can turn to whenever you need a fix.
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Giving to the community
We may not be aware of it sometimes, but the things we do every day can make a difference in our communities. For example, if you give money to a family-owned business, they can use that money to better the neighborhood around them. They have an attachment to the area, a cause for giving back, and may have the goal to improve their surroundings in their head already.
Visiting a family-owned business for auto repair in Nashua, NH is great. We suggest you try it with us. Give RK Auto Repair a call at (603)-595-7575 and see what we can do for you today!