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.
Now that you’ve prepared your vehicle with the proper tires for the winter months of New England, it’s time to look at another critical element. Elements like your brakes are also imperative to driving safely in the winter. Lucky for you, your favorite auto mechanic, RK Auto Repair, offers brake service in Nashua and surrounding towns to keep you and your family safe this winter. Here’s what you can expect when having a full brake service done with our team.
Inspection
A must for safe driving, breaks should undergo an inspection at least every six months. This is the same timeframe for a tire rotation which takes care of two routine maintenance requirements at once. When the tires are removed, your mechanic will be able to inspect and check the following items:
- Brake fluid
- Brake lines and hoses
- Disc brakes: brake pads, brake rotor, caliper
- Drum brakes: parking brake, brake shoes, rotor, cylinders, springs
- Brake pedal compression
- Wheel bearings and seals
- Springs
- Cylinders and cables
Although there can be several other elements depending on the braking system of the vehicle, this list provides you with the general idea of what to expect.
Repair
While the inspection is underway, if there’s an issue with a specific part that can be repaired we’ll do so with your permission. Components such as the calipers can be repaired with the proper amount of expertise. However, sometimes it’s cheaper to replace than repair. The decision will come down to the amount of repair needed and the labor involved. Because everyone is family here at RK Auto, you can have confidence and trust in our opinions and recommendations.
Replace
Although we’ll try to repair the components that we can, sometimes this is not possible. There are certain parts within your braking system that are better replaced than repaired. Items such as disc brake rotors, brake hoses, and wheel bearings are just a few of these. Furthermore, when choosing whether to repair or place, items such as the material and the amount of labor involved are two of the main considerations. If the piece will require a labor intensive repair, it may be more cost-efficient to replace it.
Our team of ASE certified mechanics can provide you with the brake service your vehicle needs this winter. As Nashua’s premier auto repair shop, don’t hesitate to contact RK Auto Repair for all of your winter driving needs. We’re located in the heart of residential south Nashua, making access to our shop a breeze. Schedule your appointment today at (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.
Living in New England, the seasons and accompanying weather tend to dictate our behavior over the course of the year. It dictates how we dress, how we travel, and when we travel. One thing the seasons shouldn’t dictate, at least not entirely, is taking care of our vehicles. Too many people think preparing their car for the winter months is enough. This isn’t true. Cars are just like people in the sense that we need to pay attention to them to keep them running smoothly. RK Auto Repair has some of the best mechanics in NH to help you. Here are few things to remind you that vehicle maintenance should be done throughout the year.
Seasonal Preparation
So, yes, seasonal preparation is essential. You can’t ride your car the same way in the summer months as you do in the winter months. The weather conditions in the colder months take a toll on your car, so it’s best to be pre-emptive. Bring your vehicle to one of the best mechanics in NH to check your coolant system and check the tread on your tires. They can ready your car to get you through the winter months safely.
State Inspections
It’s the law that you must have your vehicle inspected annually to ensure it is safe to drive on the road. When you need to get your car checked depends on the state. In Massachusetts, the date of purchase and registration decides your inspection month. In New Hampshire, the month of inspection depends on your birthday.
Worn Parts
Almost any product that is sold and purchased has a shelf life. Given the wear and tear your car goes through, the individual parts of your car are no different. It’s vital that you stay on top of which parts of your vehicle are aging. As they get older and stop working at their best, they need to be replaced.
Unfamiliar Smells or Sounds
Nobody knows how your car drives better than you do. Most people know their car like the back of their hand. You’ll be the first to notice unfamiliar smells or sounds coming from your vehicle. These are surefire reasons to go to get your car checked out by the best mechanics in NH.
While seasonal car care is important in New Hampshire and areas that experience all four seasons, it shouldn’t be the only time you take care of your vehicle. RK Auto Repair has some of the best mechanics in NH ready to help you with vehicle maintenance and inspection. Contact them at 603-595-7575 or visit them online!
Tires are four pillars of vehicles we consistently rely on. It is imperative that they are in good condition, and work well enough for us to get by. Quality should not be compromised. This is why it is best, in most cases, to go for brand name tires for your vehicle. Observe why you should opt for quality tires below, and always contact us if you need assistance with your tires in Nashua, NH.
1.) They Will Last
You can guarantee that plenty of time and research has been given to brand name tires and their respective companies. Quality is on the mind of these brand name manufacturers. You will be able to have peace of mind and know that these tires are going to stand the test of time if they are name brand. However, they will still need to be changed every now and then – even quality tires cannot last forever.
2.) More Options
If you need a more specific tire with extended functions, a brand name is more likely able to accommodate you. There will definitely be room for more types of tires if the company is well-established and has plenty of funding. For example, if you need all-weather tires or larger sizes, you will be able to turn to a brand name to satisfy your needs, as they will more likely have the option available.
3.) Mechanics Know Brands
When you encounter any issues with your tires that require a slightly involved fix, your mechanic will need to be able to work with the tires and provide solutions. Due to popularity and demand, mechanics know brand names better than lesser-known companies. This means your mechanic will have likely worked with your model or brand before, and can provide you quality care by drawing from their experience. RK Auto Repair has a staff full of expertise, so visiting us when you have to fix your tires in Nashua, NH is worth your time.
4.) Availability
Demand and popularity will translate into sales, which will make way for a name brand to appear in plenty of shops. A quality tire will be desired by plenty of drivers, so the manufacturer needs to keep up with the demand and market. As a result, a quality name brand tire is going to be readily available for you. Chances are, an auto repair shop is going to be able to offer a brand if it has enough appeal and popularity in the public.
5.) Less Money Spent on Your Vehicle Overall
Though shelling out money for a brand name set of tires may seem like a heavy expense, it is going to work out in your favor. By purchasing quality tires, you are making a sound investment in your vehicle. With breaks, poor pressure, and other issues unlikely, you are actually going to save money with proper tires – they will not eventually become difficult to keep up with, and no additional tire expenses outside of routine maintenance will be expected.
Keeping your vehicle safe and drivable is a necessity. Quality, brand name tires are a component of the vehicle that will certainly have advantages and pay off. Go for the extra quality and shop brand name when you can, and always give us a call for assistance with tires in Nashua, NH!
When you operate something as efficient and strong as a motor vehicle, safety is of paramount importance. Not only will safe driving prevent damage to your vehicle, but, more importantly, you will stay safe and keep those traveling with you well also. Practicing safe driving is something you can do each and every day, and are fairly easy to keep in mind as you apply it to your life. Vehicle safety requires efficient driving habits, ones that you can implement easily to keep things safe. Below, see which driving habits can keep you safe and prevent damage to your vehicle. For quality auto repair in Nashua, NH, contact RK Auto Repair!
1.) Obey the Speed Limit
It is posted, enforced, and observed for a reason. Plenty of thought and consideration goes into establishing these limits, and obeying them will keep you safe on the surface as you drive. Speeding can cause accidents, tire damage, and many more problems that compromise you and your vehicle’s safety.
2.) Stay Focused
A distracted driver is a dangerous driver for themselves and others. If your eyes are not on the road, you cannot see any hazards on the path or other conditions that may cause harm. Be sure to stay completely focused on the road when you drive, and always be aware of your surroundings. It is one of the few ways you can be 100% sure of your safety.
3.) Change Tires
Tires become worn down from excessive travels or damagers on the road when they do not have regular maintenance or pressure. Stay on top of your tires’ condition, fill them with air regularly, and change them as frequently as manufacturing standards suggest. You will avoid blowouts or other hazards that can bring your car down, and leave you on the side of the road.
4.) Change Oils
Oils are essential for your vehicle’s parts to function, for each and every part. However, they have expiration dates and become ineffective after a set amount of time. For your gas and other parts of your vehicle to work efficiently, you need to change your oil frequently and put the right types of oil in the vehicle.
5.) Be Careful
If you are wandering into an area that you are unsure of, or that is facing some hazardous weather, it is best to tread lightly. Of course, if possible, you should avoid driving in hazardous weather as you drive. That aside, always drive a bit more slowly and carefully when you encounter areas that are unfamiliar to you, undergoing maintenance, or filled with dodgy traffic that can cause unsafe road and driving conditions.
Safe driving habits help you stay well, and will keep your vehicle in good shape if you practice them each and every day. Be a cautious driver, and you will arrive to your destination without any worries. However, accidents can happen. Routine maintenance is also necessary. For those needs and more, you can visit us for excellent auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Any vehicle owner knows just how important it is to maintain your vehicle. After all, you use it every day and do your best to make sure it looks great and functions well. However, it can get quite expensive. For that reason, people tend to avoid “check engine” lights if it doesn’t seem like there is a glaring issue. While it may save you money in the short-term, it’s never a good idea to avoid visiting an auto mechanic in Nashua to get your vehicle’s problems fixed for a few reasons.
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Pay now, save later
People hesitate to get routine maintenance because they just don’t want to pay for something that seems simple enough to fix or something that doesn’t directly impact their driving experience. However, it’s well worth it: if you ignore any malfunctions, it will only get worse and end up costing you much more money down the line. It’s better to pay for a simple repair now so you can have peace of mind and not have to shell out a ton of money later.
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Safety
You may not see or feel the impact of a malfunction underneath a vehicle’s hood, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods. It’s always better to take care of a problem, so you don’t have to risk your safety. If you ignore an issue, your vehicle could quickly break down and potentially cause harm to you as you drive – especially if the problem leads to catastrophic engine failure or something of the like.
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Extend vehicle life
It’s critical that the vehicle you use is reliable and gets you from Point A to Point B. A lot of vehicle owners like to own their car for a while and love when their car still runs after a long time with little to no hiccups. When you visit an auto mechanic in Nashua and get your vehicle fixed as soon as possible, you ensure that your car is in the best shape possible and potentially make your vehicle last longer. The quicker you keep up with vehicle maintenance, the more likely it is that the car will last for a while.
Going to a garage for a minor vehicle problem may seem unnecessary, but it is critical and keeps you safe. For quality service, visit RK Auto Repair and talk to an auto mechanic in Nashua about your car. We’ll get it back on the road in no time.
It may seem like spring is far away during the colder months, but it is finally here! After New England winters, a new season is welcome and feels like a new beginning. People love to take care of their lawns and ensure everything else is ready for the new season. That includes vehicles. If you haven’t prepared your car for the spring, consider the following ways you can ensure that your car works well for the season and is ready for its challenges. For all of your auto repair in Nashua, NH needs, contact RK Auto Repair!
1.) Observe tire pressure
Fluctuating temperatures can have an impact on tires. While spring is far more mild and less effective against your tires than winter or summer, it can still present challenges. The temperatures will suddenly warm up, and that can increase tire pressure. When in doubt, measure it and keep an eye on it. Bring it to a professional if you have any doubts.
2.) Check alignment and brakes
As snow and ice coat the roads you drive on during the winter, they leave an impact. Not only do you have to look out for your safety but you also have to deal with any residual effects the road have on your vehicle’s mechanisms. Brakes and alignment may be out of line since they encounter pot holes, salt and other residual grime, and other issues. Make sure they work well.
3.) Get a wash and wax
Salt can do a number on your vehicle. After consistent exposure, your car is bound to show signs of salt damage and look a bit worse for the wear. However, that can get remedied with a quality wax and wash. While auto repair in Nashua, NH is crucial, maintaining an appearance is excellent, too. What better way to welcome a new season than a new look on your car?
4.) Look under the hood
After harsh conditions and consistent driving, there’s no doubt that the items under your car’s hood may get worn down. Take a peek under the hood and see if any belts or hoses are loose and check oil levels. If you need to get them fixed, go to a professional as soon as possible.
Spring is a favorite season, and we’re happy to ensure your car is ready for it. For quality auto repair in Nashua, NH, call RK Auto Repair at (603)-595-7575!
Part of maintaining a vehicle is knowing when things are going south. When it’s time to fix cars, it’s best to go to a certified mechanic. One of the most dangerous things that can happen is brake failure. Unfortunately, brake failure isn’t always apparent or visible. So, with that said, look for these indicators that show you need quality brake repair in NH from RK Auto Repair.
1.) Lights
Thankfully, most modern cars have flashing lights to show you when something is going on with your brakes. It usually appears near your speedometer. If this light flashes, you should safely transport your vehicle to a garage and get it checked for any faultiness. Even if it’s something small, it’s far better to be safe than sorry and get your car assessed, so you have peace of mind.
2.) Harsh noises
If you hear squealing, screeching, or grinding noises when you drive, it’s not a good sign. These sounds are clear indicators that your vehicle’s interior isn’t working as it should or is experiencing significant stress from weight or wear. Get to a mechanic for brake repair in NH ASAP if you continuously deal with harsh, loud noises that could spell danger for your vehicle.
3.) Lack of response
Brakes, if they’re in stable enough shape, are immediately useful and respond at once to pressure from your body. They need to stop at once for them to be effective. If you can’t seem to get a feel for your brakes or they aren’t responding as soon as you touch them, get them assessed as quickly as possible. It could be an indicator of serious issues within the brake system.
4.) Wear
Though auto parts are usually robust, they’re bound to age and, eventually, stop working. That’s why maintaining your car and getting replacement parts or changing oils when necessary is so essential. If your brake pad is old and rundown, it’s time to take a look at it and get it assessed so you can have more peace of mind and drive safely. Once something gets worn, it doesn’t work as well.
If you’ve experienced any of the signs above while you drive, it’s time for you to contact RK Auto Repair for expert brake repair in NH. We’ll get you back on the road safely in no time. Give us a call at (603)-595-7575 and see what we can do for you today!
Too often, auto repair in Nashua, NH is used as a last result. Of course, we love servicing all patrons, and we want to keep you safe as we get your car back on the road. Still, maintenance is an essential part of being a vehicle owner. We always encourage our clients to stay consistent with auto repair, which includes a state inspection. If you’re on the fence, consider these reasons why making a state inspection appointment is necessary.
1.) It’s illegal not to
In New Hampshire, at least. We are one of the dozen states in the country that require a safety inspection for all vehicles every year. Surely, you don’t want to get involved with the law, right? Avoid any trouble and get through the process. It’s well worth it and will offer peace of mind.
2.) We can detect problems you can’t
Sure, you may feel like your vehicle looks great and is operating well. However, some small things – a “check engine” light or slight engine hesitation while driving – may seem harmless. Let them continue, however, and they’ll lead to more significant issues. Expert mechanics can detect problems underneath the hood, and we’ll find vehicle problems you may not notice from the start.
3.) You’ll have peace of mind
It’s easy to guess that your vehicle is working well. There are only a few visual indicators from cars that go off and prove you need auto repair in Nashua, NH. However, it’s nice to know that your car is working well even after experts take a look at it. We can provide answers, solutions, and diagnostics that will give you peace of mind as a vehicle owner.
4.) We run a full inspection
Inspections are to observe all of your vehicle’s functions, so you can have faith that we’re going to provide a comprehensive, detailed look at your car that doesn’t last too long. We know where to look, and we’ll view plenty of vehicle parts before we send you on your way to ensure your safety and vehicle functionality.
We understand that sometimes, going to the mechanic can feel a bit like a nuisance. Still, keeping a car in shape is necessary for all vehicle owners. Make sure you set yourself up for success and get a state inspection. For extensive auto repair in Nashua, NH, look no further than RK Auto Repair! Give us a call at (603)-595-7575 and see what we can do for you today.