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!
Though some vehicular issues can be easily resolved, they may not be all that simple. When it comes to complicated machines like cars, even smaller fixes are best left to the professionals. Going to a mechanic instead of trying to fix something yourself has many benefits. Observe them below, and contact RK Auto Repair for quality auto repair in Nashua, NH.
Proper diagnosis
You may have a hunch something is wrong, but no idea what exactly is going on underneath the hood. A mechanic comes in very useful during these moments of doubt. Since they are trained professionals with extensive information about vehicle parts and operations, they will have plenty of knowledge at their disposal. Using their know-how, a mechanic will be able to offer you a diagnosis to let you know what is really happening, and how they can fix it (if possible).
Plenty of knowledge
Especially if you are not knowledgeable about cars, fixing them yourself is not a wise choice. Leave it to someone who knows what they are talking about. Mechanics have years of training and experience related to vehicles, so they are able to work with them better than anyone without know-how ever could. Our staff has about 25 years of experience and are a trusted source for auto repair in Nashua, NH. Your mechanic will be able to come up with plenty of solutions and recommendations at the drop of a hat.
Equipment
Chances are, you do not have a highly specialized tool for auto repair just hanging around in your garage. If you are not a professional, it does not make sense to carry much outside of a standard toolbox, anyway. Mechanics have access to and are able to use technically advanced equipment to do repairs. Their equipment will be sure to get the job done. Specialized tools are not so easily found, so take advantage of the tools at their disposal.
Success rate
Vehicles are serious, delicate machines that require proper methods to operate and repair them. Unlike crafts or something else you can learn on the fly, fixing a serious car issue is not something you will definitely excel in on the first try. A mechanic will probably be able to perform what is necessary – and do it properly. Going to the mechanic will ensure your problem will be fixed, with no guesswork necessary.
Variety of services
Unless they state otherwise, you can expect a professional auto repair shop to offer plenty of services. Whether it is something basic like a state inspection or more involved, you will be covered. So, if you have a problem that leads way to other complications, the mechanic should be well-versed enough and have plenty of maintenance operations in their arsenal to take care of each bit of service you need.
It can be tempting to save money by skipping the mechanic and trying to fix your car’s problem yourself, but vehicle repair is not something for rookies. Proper fixing and repairs require experience, seasoned professionals, and anything else a mechanic can offer. For quality auto repair in Nashua, NH, give us a call at (603)-595-7575!
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.
When it comes time to repair your vehicle and drop it off at the repair shop, being prepared is always smart. Knowing what you need done, being aware of service prices, and other bits of knowledge will make the visit much easier. However, mistakes can always happen during a visit to the mechanic. Being aware of these missteps will make the experience easier and more effective.
The following are a few mistakes to avoid. When you require strong auto repair in Nashua, NH, visit us here at RK Auto Repair!
1.) Paying Too Much for a Service
This is why research is so important beforehand. Comparing prices before you visit the shop is a great way to learn about the process(es) your vehicle needs, and also finding out how much money you should expect to pay.
By not doing enough research, you may be expected to pay more for the service than expected – and when a service is usually offered at a price that is a good deal cheaper, it is just unethical of the shop to expect a higher price!
2.) Not Finding Transportation
Chances are, your vehicle will have to stay at the shop for a little while as it is repaired. We all have our lives and other hobbies to attend to, so getting from Point A to Point B is key. Make sure you are able to travel to and from the shop. Whether that means calling Uber, asking your parents for a lift, or renting a car, set it up so you can move along. Here at RK Auto Repair, we know how inconvenient it is to be without a vehicle as we perform auto repair in Nashua, NH. To accommodate everyone, we offer our customers cars to get around as we work.
3.) Fall for Other Services
While we at RK Auto Repair have a staff full of dedicated and friendly mechanics, there are some out there looking to make as much money as possible off of your vehicle’s woes. Sometimes, a mechanic will offer additional services, repairs, or parts that are unrelated to the problem at hand or your vehicle’s needs. It can become a very complicated and frustrating affair. Remember to say no when you must, and know exactly what you need from the mechanic.
4.) Visiting Someone Inexperienced
Vehicles are delicate, and you need to be certain that whoever is working with them is able to do everything you need to for it to work again. When someone is inexperienced, they will not be able to offer solutions or do the job right. Make sure the mechanic you visit has plenty of experience and can service your vehicle appropriately.
5.) Lack of Budget
It can be a bit of a drag, but working with a budget only helps you financially and is a great habit to practice. When your vehicle needs to be fixed, it is important to have enough money available to cater to everything that needs to be fixed and pay for it in full. Do some budget planning beforehand, and you will have an easier time with this roadblock.
Follow these tips, and you are sure to have a successful visit to your mechanic. For your auto repair in Nashua, NH needs, RK Auto Repair is here for you. Give us a call at (603)-595-7575!
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:
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Noises
- These noises will include:
- Squealing
- Grinding
- Clicking
- These noises will include:
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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.
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Grabbing
- This could be described as sensitive brakes. If they engage almost immediately at the littlest pressure to the pedal
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Vibration
- If your pedal causes any sort of what you would describe as vibration, especially under normal conditions bring it in.
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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!