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
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.
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!
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.
Life can get in the way and make room for us to forget maintaining routines. Car maintenance is one of the easiest life tasks to forget, as we often take vehicles for granted and do not think to look under the hood unless there is a visible problem.
There are certain vehicle components you simply must keep at a high standard and replace regularly. Observe some of those parts below, and be sure to contact us for excellent auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Tires
They are essential, and guide you as you drive each and every day. Without proper tires, you will not be able to have a smooth experience on the road and drive, period.
Consistent air pressure checking and maintenance will give you plenty of mileage.
The standard rule of thumb calls for replacing tires every 6,000 miles, but it is worth your while to check the vehicle’s manufacturer standards and adhere to them. Adjust and change your tire routine as necessary, as each care is different.
Brakes
Old brakes are prone to rusting once they start getting some wear. Once that happens, they will likely stop working and render themselves useless. It is completely necessary to maintain them, and they are paramount to safety. Check in and get routine maintenance often.
Exhaust system
Air filtration is important. A strong exhaust system is able to work with other parts to ensure proper filtration for your vehicle, and can get overheated or break easily.
Exhaust systems are comprised of many parts that need routine maintenance, particularly the tail pipe. Tail pipes are prone to rusting and cracking, so pay attention to those in particular so no bad air enters the vehicle’s interior. For optimal exhaust system repairs and excellent auto repair in Nashua, NH, you can count on us.
Lights
Ensuring visibility and safety is so important for driving. Especially if you are a night time driver, you have to have proper, working headlights and taillights. Make sure they are able to project well, and are nice and bright.
Check every now and then for dimness or burning out of the lights. Change them every so often so they are able to shine their brightest and provide the best visibility and coverage possible.
Oil
Oil and gas work together to keep the engine going and provide the energy to endure wear and tear. Keeping oil fresh and proper will ensure optimal performance from your engine.
So, be sure to schedule routine oil changes and keep an eye on your car’s performance. If the engine is acting up, loud, or struggling, there may be some oil problems or corrosion underneath. Keeping the oil changes in rotation will allow for less corrosion and less problems.
Alignment
Alignment works in conjunction with tires to push the vehicle forward and keep things in motion. Improper alignment can cause tires to come loose, and will cause body issues as well. Shaking, poor tire performance, and other issues will come to a head without regular alignment checks.
Be sure to keep up with each of your car parts when you can. Routine maintenance is key, and there are definitely certain parts that require a bit more attention to detail than others. Bear them in mind and give us a call at (603)-595-7575 for excellent auto repair in Nashua, NH.
When taking care of vehicles, proper parts are a huge part of the equation for operation. We want to be sure our vehicles are working at optimal level, so we should always be aware of the best car parts on the market.
While some car parts are simple and do not need to be brand name to work well, there are certainly others you should not sacrifice the quality of. Observe some of these types of parts below, and always contact us any time you need quality auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Engines
They are the driving force behind your vehicle, and their function cannot be compromised. Investing in a strong engine will give your vehicle the torque, horsepower, and function it needs.
Other parts of the vehicle will benefit from this as well: since the engine drives the vehicle, and provides energy, other portions of the vehicle will be able to work their hardest as well.
Tires
You need to be sure that your driving experience is going to be safe and well-protected. Tires are a huge part of vehicle safety and will safely guide you across the surfaces you encounter when you drive.
Invest in proper, quality tires that are going to function well. Tires require a little bit of maintenance, so be sure to observe their air quality every so often. For more complicated fixes, contact us to get your tires fixed and get proper auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Lights
Whether they are at the front or back of your vehicle, lights are also essential to a safe driving experience. They help illuminate your vehicle and provide some visibility as you drive through poorly lit surfaces. You want to be seen so no accidents happen.
Make sure your lights are inspected regularly, and change faulty or burnt out bulbs. You will be safer and more secure with the right visibility.
Battery
After all, it powers every little bit of your vehicle. It needs to be strong, charged well enough, and be quite durable. Be sure to invest in the proper battery so your vehicle can operate.
Without a quality battery, your engine will not be able to function: this spells trouble for the rest of the vehicle!
Exhaust System
The exhaust system is imperative to both vehicular function and, surprisingly, your health. This system works with several parts to filter air that comes in and out of your vehicle, allowing clean air to make its way into it.
A faulty exhaust system is going to allow poor air to enter the car, which could have toxic effects if you or others in the vehicle breathe it in – so be sure to ensure safety and have a quality system set up.
Providing your vehicle with strong parts will only make your vehicle stronger and offer a better performance. Sometimes, it is best not to go all out for name brands or high prices, but vehicle care is always worth it.
For assistance with these parts and any other vehicle needs, count on us to do the job right. Give us a call at (603)-595-7575 for auto repair in Nashua, NH.
We all hear the stories online. Someone gets stuck in a snowstorm and is found three days later alive and well. Others may not be so lucky to be found within a decent time frame, but they still manage to survive. Even when you just need to stop on the side of the road and wait for the tow truck or the person that fixes everything in your life, you still need a way to stay safe and secure.
Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere is no one’s idea of a fun time, and many times you think that it could never happen to you. Chances are it won’t happen, but it is always good to prepare. Should you get stuck, there are a few things that will come in handy.
1.) Jumper cables or Jump Starter
These two items will come in handy when your battery doesn’t start. The good thing about a starter is that you don’t need to rely on another person to help you. As long as you check that it stays fully charged, it can be used to jumpstart the car. Jumper cables are also useful to have in case your charger goes caput.
2.) Flashlight
It is helpful if you get stuck at night. You will be able to check around the car for issues and be able to call for help correctly.
3.) Tire Pressure Gauge, Fix-A-Flat (or spare), and Air Compressor
When you run into a flat tire, these are extremely useful so you can at least make it home or to your mechanic. An auto mechanic in Nashua will be able to help you out if you can get there. You will also need a jack and tire iron to change the flat tire.
4.) Kitty Litter, Sand or a Spare Carpet
These will help you if your tire gets stuck in snow, sludge or mud. It will create the traction that is needed for you to get out of a messy situation.
5.) Water and Protein Bars
There is no knowing how long it could be for someone to get to you. That is why bottles of water and protein bars are good in case you are stuck waiting for a couple of hours.
6.) Blankets, Sweaters, Hats
Anything that could help keep you warm is good to have, especially in the winter months. It is important that you are ready for temperature drops.
7.) Flares, Reflectors
These get used so that the drivers that could be driving by will see the car and hopefully stop to help you out. If anything, you know that they won’t hit you.
8.) Chargers, Radio, Cell Phone
In today’s age, it is impossible to be anywhere without your phone. While you may not have service where you are, a phone can always dial out to 911. Just make sure that you have a portable charger and a radio so you can hear about weather conditions if it is during inclement weather.
9.) First Aid Kit, Emergency Kit
In case someone gets injured, have a first aid kit that will cover the basics. Many of these items are also in emergency kits that you can keep in the back of your car. Either way, it is useful to have both.
10.) Maps
Some GPS satellites won’t pick up where you are, depending on the area. It is always good to be able to have a map with you so you can tell people where you are, know where you are, and know where people might live.
While many of these things are common sense, it is essential to your survival until you can get picked up and brought to your auto mechanic in Nashua. Sometimes, waiting is the hardest part, so it is important to know what you should have just in case the worst should happen.
This question would have held more weight years ago when the gap between the two was much larger, in all honesty. However, there is still the debate between some individuals on whether they should buy domestic or foreign cars. Now, usually, once you find a brand of car that works for you, it won’t matter if it is domestic or foreign and they all should have a chance. Still, in all honesty, what is the difference anymore? Is the main difference strictly the cost of auto repair in Nashua, NH or is there something more?
When this debate initially started, American was the only way to buy anything. However, as things moved forward, America began importing more and more items. Once that gap ended after the Depression, the choice between domestic and foreign cars became a struggle.
One disputed difference between the two cars for years is the quality of the vehicle. Many times, the imports, such as Japanese imports, are known to be good brands for quality and reliability while European brands are good for craftsmanship. For years, foreign cars were the go-to car for handling, suspension, and other performance aspects of the car. Many times, the domestic cars would wear out once the warranty was up, requiring a trade in or a new lease. Another issue that was common was the efficiency of the car. Foreign cars currently still have a better mpg efficiency, but the game is closing within a few gallons. However, this is not the case anymore. Many American cars now provide the same smooth performance as some of the top competitors from the foreign market.
The major aspect where there is a difference between the two is still the price of the vehicles. Domestic cars tend to be cheaper for multiple reasons, one being that there are no import costs added to the price. Typically, American cars are more affordable because their parts are cheaper for auto repair in Nashua, NH than many foreign cars. Foreign car parts tend to be more expensive, especially when you look into European vehicles. For some reason, the parts are priced much higher than an American car. However, some foreign cars will have domestic plants, such as Nissan and Hyundai, which will make it easier to get access to the parts for the car. Which would, in turn, reduce some cost, but anything American made will be cheaper.
So, for the two most important aspects of the car buying market, performance and price point, the playing field is pretty even. It is also useful knowing that if you decide on a foreign vehicle, you will have auto mechanics who know what they are doing from start to finish. At RK Auto, we can service your domestic and your foreign vehicles with the same expertise – so take your time to choose the right car for your needs.
Ah, brakes. The part of the car that allows you to drive safely with our careening off of a cliff and into a ravine below, or from hitting the car in front of you. Brakes are important and they need to be taken care of no matter what. If you let your brakes go, it can be disastrous for you and those around you. Thankfully, brake repair in NH is fairly easy to come across, it is important to keep an eye on your brakes before something goes wrong.
First, your brakes are a huge contraption of parts. It starts with the pedal and continues through multiple ways so that you have control of the car. Just by pushing the pedal won’t stop a 2 ton vehicle but will start a domino effect of what does stop the car. Pressing the pedal starts two forces up. These forces are Leverage and Hydraulic force according to Explain that Stuff (they have the best basic information for you!).
When you push the pedal, it releases a hydraulic fluid that will manipulate the rest of the brake gear for you. When you press the pedal you apply the leverage needed to start the hydraulics in the car. A piston is released into the fluid then goes into cylinders that will activate the four brakes in the car. Where the cylinders neat the brake are wider than the ones near the brake pedal, you are able to multiply your pressure in order to stop your vehicle by means of friction. That is the basics on how your breaks work.
Pistons, fluids, cylinders, brakes and pedals all work together to stop your car in order to keep yourself and others safe. In older cars, pumping your breaks were believed to help but with newer car brakes, you do not need to pump. The more you press, the more fluid is released so that you can stop your car. This is why it is important to pay attention to the warning signs that your brakes give off. We mentioned a few ways to tell if you need new brakes in Nashua, but it is always good to refresh so that you can continue driving safe.
The main things to look out for with your brakes are the following:
-
Noises
- These noises will include:
- Squealing
- Grinding
- Clicking
- These noises will include:
-
Pulling
- If your car pulls to one side, always bring it into the shop whether breaking or not!
- Low or a hard pedal
- If you need to nearly fully depress the brake pedal for them to engage, or it is too hard to press the pedal for the brakes to engage bring them into RK Auto immediately.
-
Grabbing
- This could be described as sensitive brakes. If they engage almost immediately at the littlest pressure to the pedal
-
Vibration
- If your pedal causes any sort of what you would describe as vibration, especially under normal conditions bring it in.
-
Light
- Many cars today will have a brake light that will illuminate. If everything else checks out, but you have that one, bring it in and we can figure out what is going on with your brake system.
As a part of normal wear and tear on the car, don’t worry that you need to replace your brakes in Nashua. With winter, city driving and just age your brakes will need to be repaired and tuned up.
If you notice any of these issues, reach out to RK Auto at 603-595-7575 or on our website!