What types of services do you offer?

If you don't see the vehicle repair that you're looking for in the lists below, give us a call.  Chances are that we'll be able fix the problem.

Mechanical

• Engine Repair
  
• Air Conditioning
  
• Oil Changes
  
• Computerized 4 wheel alignments
• Brakes
  
• Shocks
• Computer Diagnostics
  
• Heating and Cooling Systems
  
• Electrical Services
  
• Exhaust Systems / Mufflers
  
• Fuel Systems
  
• Preventative Maintenance
  
• Suspension
  
• Tune-ups
  
• Fluid Flush (transmission, power steering, coolant & brake)
  
• Drive Train (engines, transmissions & differentials)

Other

• MD State Inspections
  
• Tires
  
• Retail
  
• Wholesale
  
• Windshield and Glass Replacement
  
  • On Site
    
  • Mobile
    
  • Auto and Truck
    
  • Construction Vehicles
    
• Auto and Truck Accessories
  
  • Visors
    
  • Shades
    
  • Custom Wheels
    
  • etc.

What's the best way to reduce the cost of mechanical repairs?

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running properly...and to keeping repair costs down.  Something as simple as an oil change is vital to your engine's ability to perform for years to come.  Failure to keep you're engine lubricated with regular oil changes can eventually result in engine damage. While performing any repair or service, we keep an eye out for possible problems and make you aware of them if and when they are found.  Regular maintenance is a great opportunity for us to see "inside" the car.

Should I use synthetic oil for my next oil change?

Synthetic motor oils are several times more expensive than mineral-based or "natural" motor oils, but they can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between changes.  You really need to weigh the benefits over the additional cost to see if it's right for your vehicle.  It is not recommended that you switch back to "natural" motor oils after using synthetics.

Synthetic motor oils can be a good choice for vehicles that are used for towing or are operated in climate extremes.  Turbocharged or supercharged engines are also good candidates for sythetic lubricants.

What are some common repair or maintenance operations and why are they important?

• Oil Change:
  • Should be changed every 3000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.  New, synthetic oils can increase your mileage between oil changes.  If you're not sure, give us a call with your details, and we'll let you know when you should stop in for an oil change.
    
  • Over time and with use, the high pressure and constant friction cause the oil to break down, reducing it's ability to lubricate your engine.  Proper lubrication is vital or optimum engine performance.
• Tire Rotation:
  • Should be done every other oil change, or every 6000 miles.
    
  • Neglecting to rotate tires is a major cause of premature tire wear.
• Timing Belt Replacement:
  • Should be done at the manufacturer recommended intervals (usually based on mileage)
    
  • Failure of a timing belt can result in major engine damage. The cost of replacing a timing belt at the manufacturer's recommend time is much cheaper than the cost of repairing an engine with a broken timing belt.
• "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" light comes on:
  • Should be addressed right away
    
  • Today's cars are using more sensors and computerized parts to manage vehicle emissions and critical operating systems.  When one of these identifies a problem the "check engine" light is illuminated.  You car may seem to operate normally, it is important to have it checked out right away to avoid major problems later.
• Overheating:
  • Should be fixed immediately
    
  • If the engine overheats for too long, you can damage your engine, and in the worst cases cause it to seize, which is repaired by replacing the engine. What should I do if my car starts to overheat?  As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off! Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator as it can burn you. The best thing to do is have your car towed to a repair shop.
• Milky brown engine oil:
  • Should be fixed immediately
    
  • This is an indication that there is coolant (or water) in the engine oil.  This can be caused by a blown head gasket, cracked engine casings, or a failed transmission cooler.
• Clean Battery Terminals:
  • Should be done as needed, and right away if you see corrosion (bluish or greenish white build-up on the terminals)
    
  • This is important to make sure that they provide a good electrical connection.
• Replace Fuel Filter:
  • Replace every 30,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer
    
  • A clogged fuel filter can reduce your engine's performance, and in the worst cases prevent gas from getting into your engine, preventing it from operating at all.
• Replace Spark Plugs:
  • Replace every 30 months or 30,000 miles.  Some spark plugs allow you to go longer between changes, such as 100,000 miles for platinum tipped spark plugs
    
  • Important for maximum fuel economy and best engine performance.
• Headlight Alignment:
  • Should be done after headlamp or bulb replacement or as needed.
    
  • Mis-aligned headlights can make it harder for you to see at night and can also impair other driver's vision if your lights are pointed too high
• Check lamp bulbs and operation:
  • Should be done once a month or as needed.  Not as necessary with new car
    
  • Ensure that all of your lights, headlights, turn signals, back up lamps, etc., are operating properly.  Proper lamp operation is vital for communicating with other drivers on the road.