At one time or another, we have all experienced the need for auto repair services. Whether small or big, many of cringe at the thought of having to bring our vehicle into the shop. However, if you’re looking for auto repair in New Hampshire and search out your local auto repair shops, the process doesn’t have to be so painful. Local repair shops, like RK Auto Repair, offer many benefits that dealerships no longer provide to the consumer.
Convenience
Not only is your local repair shop around the corner, but they are also a one-stop shop servicing all of your vehicles needs. From oil changes to exhaust system repairs, local shops can handle most concerns without the hassle. Another added benefit is that your appointment and turn-around time is typically faster than that of a dealership.
Personal Attention
There is something to be said about friendly, personalized service. As a consumer, when you walk through the door and are greeted with a genuine smile and referred to by name you’re left feeling great inside. By utilizing the services of your local auto repair shop, you can be sure that not only your name, but your vehicle will be known. Thus, you’re left feeling that you are in good hands. Further, this type of service will save you time. Without having to repeat your vehicles concerns to each new face, your local shop will remember for you.
Dependability
Much dependent on word-of-mouth, repair shops strive to provide top-notch service to their customers in hopes that their name will be passed on. Chances are, if your friend or family does recommend a local auto repair shop to you, you’ll check them out. Why is this? Because you trust the person that referred you. However, you would not have been referred to if the auto repair shop wasn’t dependable. In today’s busy world, nobody has time to go back and forth on issues that should be adequately corrected the first time. Being dependable ensures customers not only come back time and time again but refer to you to their friends and family.
Budget Friendly
Although dealerships have mastered the wow factor in appearance and staffing numbers, it comes at a cost. The overhead of a local auto repair shop is typically must less than that of a dealership. Thus, lower operating costs mean lower repair costs.
Next time you require auto repair in New Hampshire, consider RK Auto Repair. With over 30 years of trusted experience, the team at RK Auto is fully licensed and insured. Providing free estimates and loaner cars, RK Auto Repair is sure to make your next auto repair service a pleasant one. Visit them online or call today to schedule your next appointment (603) 595-7575. \lsdpriori
One thing you can count on is that your vehicle will not be shy when it comes to letting you know it needs exhaust repair. As one of the most worked components in your vehicle, the exhaust manifold is the most common area in need of repair. The constant heating and cooling creates expansion and contraction in the manifold. Thus, manifolds have been known to commonly crack over time. However, there are several components when dealing with an exhaust system. RK Auto Repair knows exhaust repair in NH. Below, RK Auto has created a list of four tell-tale signs that your vehicle’s exhaust system requires a little TLC.
Rumbles and Hissing
One of the most noticeable signs that you may need exhaust repair services is the presence of unusual sounds. Loud rumbles or hissing are commonly heard by vehicle owners if there is a leak in the manifold. This type of leak can increase engine volume. Although other components of the exhaust system can lead to increased volume, the manifold tends to be the most common.
Foul Smelling Fumes
Another component of your exhaust system is the catalytic converter. This component helps to transform harmful pollutant gases into less harmful ones. Thus, if the converter goes, you may be sitting in some pretty foul smelling fumes on your ride across town. Often associated with a sulfur smell, when a catalytic converter goes, you can be sure you’ll know. Another sign of a failed converter could be rattling noises from under the vehicle.
Decrease in Fuel Efficiency
Perhaps you’re finding yourself at the gas pump more often than usual. A leaky exhaust system makes it harder for your engine to power the vehicle. Thus, you will find a decrease in fuel efficiency may occur. Be sure to pay special attention to your vehicle’s performance when you step on the gas pedal. If you notice any type of lag, it may be time to call your local auto repair shop.
Loud Noises
Even if you’ve never heard of the above-mentioned components, chances are you know what a muffler is. As part of the exhaust system, your vehicle’s muffler helps to reduce emissions and noise. Cracks in your muffler can become a serious concern as you and your passengers may no longer be protected from hazardous fumes such as carbon monoxide.
If any of these things are happening with your vehicle, consider contacting RK Auto Repair for the best exhaust repair in NH. The experienced team can detect even the slightest crack or potential problem with their high-tech diagnostic systems. Visit RK Auto Repair online to learn more on how they can help your vehicle.
Your fleet is an investment. Like anything else, we protect what we invest in. Why would your business line of vehicles be any different? The livelihood your business depends on each day; your fleet needs to be reliable and performing at its optimal level. RK Auto Repair offers the best fleet maintenance in Nashua, NH. Providing their customers with unique service that goes above the rest, at RK Auto you are family.
Cost Effective
With the proper maintenance schedule, your fleet will provide years of reliable service. Eliminating unnecessary, costly repairs, RK Auto will help keep your budget in line with an effective preventive maintenance program. By adhering to the schedule, you will guarantee longevity for your fleet.
Timely Maintenance
We understand how hectic life can be. Therefore, at RK Auto, we like to go above and beyond for our customers. Keeping track of lengthy and timely reports are things of the past. After your maintenance program has been established, our staff will notify you when it is time to schedule your next upcoming service. Thus leaving you with a peace of mind that your fleet is in good hands.
Performance
Staying on top of all maintenance and repairs will keep your fleet running at its optimal performance. However, it is equally important to have communication with your first line. Your drivers know the vehicles better than anyone else. Be sure to have an open line of communication with them regarding the performance of their assigned vehicle. By addressing concerns as soon as they are noticed, you will save costly repairs.
RK Auto realizes the importance of your fleet to your business. Our experienced mechanics take preventative measures to keep your company on the road with reliable vehicles that you can count on. If you currently have or will have, a fleet needing fleet maintenance in Nashua, NH contact RK Auto at (603) 595-7575. Backed with knowledge and versatility, RK Auto Repair has been named one of the best mechanics in NH.
You love your car but need a change. Upgrades to your vehicle are a great way to give your vehicle a new look and feel. Custom exhausts can be the simplest and cheapest way to accomplish your need for change. With the proper size exhaust, your car will have a new look and sound. Beyond the appearance, you’ll notice benefits on improved fuel economy and performance. However, exhausts are not one size fits all. When you decide it’s time for your new custom exhaust in NH, contact the professionals at RK Auto Repair. With over 30 years of experience, the staff will be sure to customize the best exhaust type suited for your vehicle.
Axle-back
One of the quickest exhaust upgrades you can choose is the axel-back. This type of exhaust replaces the stock system from the rear axle to the muffler. Hence the name. Requiring no cutting of stock components, the typical turnaround time on installation is less than an hour. The driver will notice a small change in power. The most noticeable difference will be the sound your vehicle puts out. Overall, the axle-back has the least effect on performance and fuel economy enhancements.
Cat-back
A step up from the axel-back system, a cat-back exhaust will provide drivers with more noticeable enhancements. This custom exhaust replaces stock components from the behind the catalytic converter to the muffler. The replacement provides a fairly decent increase on the original performance and fuel economy. Some upgrades can make a vehicle noncompliant with smog emissions. One of the best features of a cat-back system is that your emissions will remain the same.
Header-back
The header-back system is a complete replacement of stock components with aftermarket components. If your goal is to have the most significant impact on performance and fuel economy, this is the upgrade for you. That being said, not all vehicles are ready for this type of upgrade. In most cases, preparations need to made to the vehicle before installation can occur.
With Spring around the corner, now is the best time to consider a custom exhaust in NH. Depending on the vehicle and desired results, choosing the type of exhaust system can be tricky. Contacting your local professionals at RK Auto Repair will ensure the best and safest installation for your vehicle. Contact them today at (603) 595-7575.
The saying goes “You can’t reinvent the wheel.” As far as car parts go, the tires are the only part you won’t get anywhere without. Sure an engine, accelerator, exhaust, and every other part is important, but without those, you could still roll. You depend on your tires in Nashua to get you where you’re going, but how often do you check them? Every piece of a car has a shelf, life including your tires in Nashua. With proper care and maintenance, you can extend that shelf life considerably. Here are some ways you can make the most of your tires.
Tire Pressure
How long your tires last relies heavily on the tire pressure. Without the proper inflation pressure, your tires can’t perform the way they’re supposed to. While underinflated tires are more common, overinflated tires are just as hazardous to the lifespan of your tires. Not every car has the same required tire pressure. Luckily you can find the proper inflation pressure listed along the side of your tire.
Alignment
For your car’s wheels to wear evenly, you need to maintain proper alignment. On top of your tires, having your wheels out of alignment can signify other mechanical problems. The last thing you need is a wonky ride.
Remember to Rotate
Depending on which position on your vehicle the tire occupies, different forces are applied. Without rotating your tires, they will begin to wear unevenly, putting some at a higher risk for damage. The only way to keep an even wear is to rotate your tires. Mechanics recommend rotating your tires every 5000 miles.
Balance is Key
If you’ve ever noticed a vibration while driving, it could be a sign that your balance is off. On top of being annoying, an unequal balance can contribute to tire wear. The more factors that wear away at your tires, the shorter their lifespan becomes.
When it comes to tires in Nashua, every driver is responsible for taking care of them. Knowing the factors that can lead to worn out tires is the first step to preventing damage. The better care you take of your tires, the longer they will last you. If you are in need of new tires, contact RK Auto or visit us online.
As you drive your car, the engine runs and heats up as it does. As the engine runs, it can reach temperatures of over 500° Celsius. Overworking your engine can cause your car to overheat and break down. Luckily, your car is equipped with a coolant system to keep your engine temperature in check. Of course, just like any part of your vehicle, your coolant system can get damaged over the years. If you’re worried about your car’s coolant system, consider getting auto repair in Nashua. Here are three warning signs that your coolant system may need to be checked.
Leaking
A warning sign of low coolant levels is white smoke coming from your exhaust. Yes, you will always see smoke coming from your exhaust, but the smoke to look out for will be thick and white. This is an indicator that there is a leak in your coolant system, allowing the heat to burn up your antifreeze. Another sign of a leak will be pooling of a green substance under your car. No puddle is too small. If you ignore a small puddle, chances are the leak will get worse. In instances of white smoke and green puddles, consider auto repair in Nashua.
Sweet Smell
While sweet smells can be a sign of good things like cookies or fruit, a sweet smell in the cabin of your car is not. Not to say an air freshener isn’t a good idea, but an unusual, sweet smell popping up should raise a red flag. Antifreeze smells sweet, and the scent can waft into your car if your coolant system is leaking or overheating. When a sweet smell pops up in your car, get to a mechanic to run diagnostics on your coolant system.
Steam
500° Celsius is the equivalent of 932° Fahrenheit. The average person starts complaining at around 83° Fahrenheit. This extreme temperature can cause your engine to overheat and release steam if your coolant system isn’t running correctly. The moment you notice white smoke or steam coming from the hood of your vehicle, pull over immediately. This is a surefire sign you need auto repair in Nashua.
You’ve heard the phrase “A car is worth more than the sum of its parts,” but your car isn’t worth much if those parts aren’t functional. Your coolant system is a necessity when it comes to keeping your engine at a manageable temperature while driving. If you notice any of these three sings, find auto repair in Nashua. Contact RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575 or visit them online today.
The winters of New England are no joke. Weather drops below freezing, so the air hurts your face, and the snow pummels everything. Driving becomes much harder in the winter than in other seasons due to the ice and snow. In extreme cases, roads are closed off. It can be intimidating to drive when you know the weather is going to get rough, which is why it’s important to make sure your car is prepared for anything. Here are a few tips to get your vehicle winter-ready from the best mechanics in Nashua.
Tire Pressure
Tire pressure and tread depth are going to play significant roles in how your car handles in winter weather. As the temperature fluctuates, the air in your tires expands and retract. This causes your tire pressure to fluctuate as well. You can test your tire pressure with a gauge and fill it with an air compressor to your manual’s recommendation. As for tread depth, you can use a penny to test that. Place a penny in the tread with Abraham Lincoln’s head pointing up. If you find his head is still visible at the top, it’s a sign to replace your tires before winter hits.
Supplies
As a safety precaution, you should make sure you have a supply kit in the trunk of your car. While you should always keep an emergency kit in your car, you should make sure it is well stocked as winter comes around. Your kit should include essential items like road flares and a flashlight, a first aid kit and a radio. To customize the kit for winter, you should add blankets, a warm change of clothes, an ice scraper, and a bag of sand to get traction on the road.
Coolant
Making sure your car’s coolant and antifreeze levels are ready for winter is the key. The only thing keeping your engine from freezing and stalling in the winter chill is your coolant. You can check your coolant levels at home with a kit or bring your car to the best mechanics in Nashua to make sure it’s done right.
Driving in the winter is an intimidating thought that becomes less intimidating when you know you’re prepared. Making sure your tire pressure and coolant levels are at peak performance are the first steps. For extra safety, be sure to update your emergency kit with winter supplies. For any questions on how to prepare your car for winter, contact RK Auto Repair, the best mechanics in Nashua at 603-595-7575 or visit them online!
It is no secret that your car needs an annual inspection to keep on top of your auto repair in Nashua. In fact, it’s the law. New Hampshire requires that every year you go to a certified mechanic to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive on the road. This is a precaution to keep yourself, pedestrians, and other drivers safe. While most people know they need to get an inspection, many don’t know what a state inspection entails. Here is a break down of what a NH state inspection looks like.
Registration
The first step to a state inspection is making sure your registration and registration certificate, license plate, and vehicle ID number are all up to date.
Steering
Seeing as steering is what directs your car, this is a major part of the inspection. They also check the front end and the suspension of your vehicle.
Brakes
In order to pass a state inspection, your vehicle brakes must be in working order. Your auto repair in Nashua should inspect the brakes as well as the parking brake.
Meters
Your car has two major meters that need inspection. The first meter is the speedometer. This measures how fast your car is moving. The next is the odometer which measure hows far your car has traveled.
Electrical
State inspections take a look at the electrical system in your car. This includes the horn and the defroster.
Lights
The next part of the inspection is the lights and reflectors on your vehicle. Your mechanic will also test your headlight aim to ensure safe visibility.
Glass
The glass on your vehicle will be inspected for cracks and dings. The glazing and mirrors on your car are another part of this step.
Wipers
In order to see in the rain, your windshield wipers need to be operational. A state inspection can make sure your wipers are working properly.
Exhaust
Another part of a New Hampshire inspection is checking your exhaust isn’t clogged and is filtering correctly.
Body
Your car’s body, bumper height and chassis will also be observed during a state inspection.
Fuel
For a car to run smoothly and safely, your fuel system has to be functioning at its best. State inspections will make sure your fuel system is operating as it should.
Tires
Without tires and wheels, your car can’t drive. However, old tires can be dangerous to drive on. Because of this, your tires and wheels need to be checked during a state inspection.
State inspections are mandatory in New Hampshire and also include an inspection of your on-board diagnostics. The law says you need to have your car inspected for the first time within ten days of your registration date, and every year following determined by your birthday month. For state inspections and auto repair in Nashua, contact RK Auto Repair at 603-595-7575 or visit them online.
When it comes to your vehicle, it never hurts to know as much as possible. Many people have heard of tire rotations throughout their life, but many don’t know what it is or why it should be done. Tire rotation is the process of moving the position of the tires on your vehicle to ensure more even wear and therefore a longer lifespan for your tires in Nashua. Though each car has a different necessity, the standard rule is to get your tires rotated every 5000 to 7500 miles. Here is a breakdown of tire rotation so you can know what’s going on with your car.
Front-Wheel Drive
Cars that operate on front-wheel-drive by using the front tires to steer. The front tires are putting the power into the road. Because of this, front-wheel-drive can lead the front tires to wear at a faster rate than the rear tires. To rotate tires on a front-wheel-drive vehicle, you should move the back left tire should move to the front right position with the back right tire moving to the front left position. Then the front left tire to the back left position and the front right tire to the back right position.
Rear-Wheel Drive
There is one significant difference between front-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive vehicles. For rear-wheel-drive, the front tires still control the steering of the car while the rear tires transfer the power from the car to the road. This distribution of work leads to more even wear on the front and rear tires. This means that to rotate your tires in Nashua, you should move the front left tire to the back left position. The front right tire should be transferred to the back right position. When bringing the back tires to the front, you should place the back left tire on the front right side and the back right tire on the front left side.
Four-Wheel Drive
For four-wheel-drive, or all-wheel-drive, vehicles, the wear is even more evenly spread. Four-wheel-drive tire rotation will follow the same pattern as rear-wheel-drive vehicles. The two tires in the front will remain on the same side as they move to the back. The back tires will move to the front, swapping sides as they do.
While tire rotation can be done at home, it’s safer to have it taken care of by professionals. Let the mechanics at RK Auto Repair take care of your tires in Nashua. Contact them at 603-595-7575 or visit them online.
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.