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.
Although many people rely on their trusted mechanic for the details of their vehicles, it’s good to know the basics behind the workings. Here in Nashua, brakes are one of the most common reasons to bring your car in for service. From potholes to extreme heat, New England weather provides all the elements your vehicle needs to fall apart. However, with a basic understanding of your braking system and regular maintenance, you can save yourself hundreds in potential vehicle repair.
Hydraulic
The most common system for vehicles and motorcycles is the hydraulic braking system. This system works in combination with braking fluid and other components of your car. With the transfer of energy, the brakes enable an object to stop; typically a rotating axel.
In order to maintain optimal functioning in your braking system, routine maintenance is crucial. During your routine check, your braking system will be inspected by a licensed mechanic. Several items will be checked out by your mechanic. These include:
- Brake Fluid Levels
- Fluid Flush and Replacement
- Wear and Tear of Brake Pads and Rotors
- Bleed the Brake Lines
- Inspect Brake System Components
Regenerative
Often seen in hybrid and electric vehicles, regenerative braking systems are an innovative way of thinking. Essentially, breaking is an inevitable part of driving and a waste of energy. The built-up heat dissipates instead of being used as energy. Thus, engineers have created a new type of system that converts the energy into electricity, helping to recharge the vehicle’s battery. A more efficient system, regenerative brakes will also provide owners with a longer lifespan.
Servo
Otherwise known as vacuum or vacuum-assisted braking, servo braking lessens the wear on the components of your vehicle. Power assistance is used to reduce the human effort. In other words, the required pressure need to operate the brake pedal is lessened. Thus, you can expect a longer life on elements such as your brake pads and rotors.
If your brakes have you questioning their integrity, our ASE Certified mechanics will thoroughly inspect your braking system to ensure optimal performance and safety. To schedule your appointment, contact the team at RK Auto Repair 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!
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!
Everyone knows that winter can cause a lot of interruptions and annoyance for New Englanders. We often think about it regarding how we have to protect our homes or layer our clothing, but it impacts vehicles, too – especially tires in Nashua. As you drive this winter, there are a few things that can get affected by winter to bear in mind.
1.) Tires
The most obvious and most impacted area of the vehicle. Tires face a lot of dangers during winter: slippery ice that reduces traction, cold air that may deflate them, and the potential for rust from the excess moisture snow carries. Your tires need to get observed more than ever during winter, so make sure you schedule pressure tests and keep maintenance up.
2.) Battery
Car batteries, like tires in Nashua, can get impacted by extreme temperatures. It’s always best for you to have a neutral zone for your battery so it can operate at its fullest potential and work efficiently. When left unattended, a cold cell may not let your vehicle start. Try to start your car well ahead of time when you need to go somewhere and start it often, so the engine’s energy keeps the battery running.
3.) Exterior
Snow doesn’t care where it strikes: it just does. Unfortunately, that means you have to work hard to keep your car’s exterior clean. If you don’t, you may see a rusty coat or salt-damaged paint in your future. It’s important to take care of the exterior as well as the interior.
Winter is a time where plenty of hazards arrive for drivers, but you don’t have to be caught unawares if you look out for parts that get affected. For assistance with tires in Nashua and more, call RK Auto Repair at (603)-595-7575!
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.
When temperatures allow, it is important that you clean your car off as soon as possible. As long as you live in an area with a good amount of snow, salt is the primary form of protection from the ice on the roads. While the salt does its job in making it safe to drive along the roads, it will take a toll on your car. Other than making your car look messy because of the nature of the salt, it is important that you try to clear the salt as soon as possible after the heavy snow finishes.
It does take a while for the salt to leave, but washing your car can make a difference. Some of the major auto repair in Nashua, NH that you could come across will be expensive in the long run.
Rust
Rust is unsightly and the first issue that could come from allowing salt to sit on your car for too long. Salt will corrode the paint and sit on the metal, making it weak. Once the rust begins, it will continue to erode, and you will eventually need to replace the part that rusts. Whether it is a frame or a larger piece of equipment, it will be costly.
Brake and Fuel Lines
These are two of the most likely mechanical properties in your car to get rust damage. They are close to the undercarriage of the car, which protects most of your vehicle, but there are the chances that the salt water can get in there. These are the essential pieces of the car to make it accelerate and stop. It is important that you make sure these are clean so that you aren’t dropping hundreds of dollars on auto repair in Nashua, NH because of weather.
Mufflers and Exhaust
Salt and rust harm these pieces as well. Anything exposed in any way, especially underneath your car where water tends to splash up or not regularly rinsed away, could be susceptible to the slow rust of the salt.
While many owners don’t want to wash their car every week during the winter because it will build up again, there are ways to help with the damage. It could start with just making sure that you get a good waxing a few times a year. A good waxing will make it harder for the salt and grime to get into the paint and other parts of the car.
Also, when you do go to get your car washed, try to go to a car that offers an undercarriage wash. These will help remove all the icky salt that is underneath your vehicle that is potentially corroding all of your mechanical aspects. It is a good way to avoid costly repairs later.
Of course, if you think there may be damage, bring it into the shop to see if you are alright. Then, bring it in again before winter, and maybe you can get your car prepped and ready to go.
If you are concerned about salt damage to your vehicle, call RK Auto at (603)-595-7575.
Routine maintenance for gas, oil, and standard vehicle operations may seem like the most important part of owning a car. These consistent check ups are very necessary, but forgetting about your vehicle’s less prominent parts can harm your vehicle.
There are several items in your car that need consistent replacements. Observe a few below to get acquainted, and contact us for any auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Taillights
Staying visible on the road is important – especially at night. In conjunction with the front lights, the lights toward the back of your vehicle help guide the way and alert drivers to your presence.
Changing taillights is an easy, quick fix that will help keep you safe. Failure to keep up with them will not only result in possible danger: law enforcement will have words to say about your vehicle if it is not equipped with proper taillights.
Tires
They help you drive on the road, and give your vehicle the traction it needs to move on just about every surface. Frequent travel on these surfaces, however, can give some wear and tear to the tires – which can result in blowouts and plenty of damage.
It is recommended that tires and changed every 6,000 miles. Take a look at manufacturer standards to be sure of the precise time to change your vehicle’s tires, as they can vary.
Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers assist with your line of vision when driving, and cannot be underestimated in terms of safety. The wipers work to remove moisture and other weather particles from the windshield, clearing the surface.
Using fluid to make the movements nice and smooth will assist with visiblity, and frequent replacement before they get worn is a surefire way to keep your vision up to a high standard.
Gas Caps
Keeping the gas contained in your vehicle is necessary for it to have the fuel to function, so a proper gas cap is necessary. Since they are moved around frequently when purchasing gas and can cause engine troubles, they need to be looked at every now and then.
If your gas cap is loose, comes off of the vehicle often, or does not fasten, it needs to be changed. Your car’s fuel depends on it.
Tailpipes
Tailpipes assist with emission and help filter the air that comes in and out of your vehicle. Keeping your vehicle properly filtered will help with safety standards and makes the air breathable.
This part of the exhaust system can rust and get holes easily if they are neglected, so doing a visual check on them every so often is beneficial, and will ensure your exhaust system will work properly. RK Auto Repair work with these parts of the vehicle frequently and we are a great source if your exhaust system needs auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Of course, any part of your vehicle that is broken or seems a bit “off” should require your attention, but these are some of parts that need consistent attention.
For assistance with these parts and other aspects of vehicle care, give RK us a call at (603)-595-7575 for quality auto repair in Nashua, NH.