• Harmonic Balancer Separation 101

    The harmonic balancer is one of the most crucial parts of your vehicle’s crankshaft. As your engine turns, the harmonic balancer absorbs its vibrations and provides you with a smoother and more enjoyable ride. If your harmonic balancer is damaged or broken, you will need to make an appointment for car repair in Sacramento. A German auto repair facility will have the tools needed to get your harmonic balancer up and running properly.

    One of the most serious issues that can occur in a harmonic balancer is when the unit separates from the engine belts. When your harmonic balancer separates, it is in danger of falling out of the crankshaft. To prevent catastrophic damage to your engine, you will need to schedule an immediate appointment at your auto shop . Using special tools, your mechanic will be able to rejoin the harmonic balancer to the belts and restore your car’s crankshaft to proper function.

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  • What You Should Do After an Accident

    While an automotive collision may cause visible damage to your car body, it can also cause problems under the hood. After you experience an accident while driving your car, do not hesitate to visit Frank’s Automotive for engine repair near Sacramento. Even if you are not aware of engine issues after an accident, your car may be suffering from serious and lingering issues that will cause further problems in the future.

    When you bring your car to Frank’s Automotive for engine repair, we will start your appointment with a comprehensive diagnostic service. If your check engine light is illuminated, we can use our equipment to obtain your computer’s trouble code. Using our certified parts and tools, our team of mechanics will be able to repair any engine damage that was caused by your collision. We will make sure that you drive out of our repair shop with total confidence in the performance and safety of your vehicle.

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  • What You Need to Know About Transmission Fluid Leaks

    Transmission fluid is responsible for keeping this part of your car in safe operating condition whenever you hit the road. When you schedule transmission repair in Sacramento , your technicians will look for visible signs that your car’s transmission has sprung a leak. Leaking fluid can cause major damage to your automatic or manual transmission, so it is important to diagnose and repair this issue right away. Here’s a look at what every driver needs to know about car transmission fluid leaks: car - transmission

    Transmission leaks can be difficult to diagnose.

    When you spot a bright red pool of liquid underneath your car, this is a clear indication that your vehicle is leaking transmission fluid. While you may be able to easily identify the fact that your transmission is leaking, pinpointing the cause of the issue can be much more difficult. The best way to diagnose this type of fluid leak is to bring your car to a dedicated automotive repair shop for servicing.

    Transmission leaks can cause serious problems.

    If your car has recently started to leak transmission fluid, you may be tempted to continue driving it until you have time to book a service appointment. However, leaks can wreak havoc on the performance and safety of your transmission. Waiting to repair your vehicle’s leak can cause your gears to grind together, and may eventually lead to a total transmission fluid failure.

    Transmission leaks can be repaired.

    While leaks are serious, you should not despair if you notice fluid leaking from your car’s transmission system. By bringing your car to a certified mechanic that specializes in transmission work, you will be able to fully address the issue. From repairing leaky seals to fixing gaps in the various parts of your transmission, your mechanic can provide you with the services needed to get your vehicle back up and running like normal. After your leak has been repaired, you may want to set up transmission fluid flushes at routine intervals.

  • Get the Answers to Your Questions About Pre-Purchase Inspections

    If you are shopping for a luxurious German vehicle that is offered at a great price, you may want to think about buying a used car. To make sure that your used vehicle is in good mechanical condition, you should always set up a pre-purchase inspection before you finalize the sale. A German auto mechanic that offers pre-purchase inspections in Sacramento can review the performance and safety of your potential vehicle. Check out these answers to some commonly asked questions about the benefits of pre-purchase inspections. new - car

    Why should I schedule a pre-purchase inspection?

    When you are considering buying a used car, you may be curious as to whether a vehicle check will be worth your time and effort. In fact, having your potential car looked over by a mechanic can save you significant time and money in the long run. If a major mechanical flaw is revealed during the inspection, you will know that it is a much better idea to pass on purchasing the vehicle.

    What happens during a pre-purchase inspection?

    There are several steps involved when your mechanic looks at a used car. Typically, he will start the process by using computer diagnostic equipment to check for any trouble codes that are being sent out by the vehicle’s computer. Next, he will look at the quality and condition of the engine, brakes, transmission, and tires. Once the car passes the multi-point inspection, it will get the seal of approval from your mechanic.

    Who should perform my pre-purchase inspection?

    If you already bring your car to a European auto mechanic, you can book your inspection at your regular automotive facility. For first-time German car buyers, it is important to find a mechanic that specializes in repairing your specific make of vehicle. A European auto repair facility that serves your local area will have the tools and knowledge needed to carefully inspect your vehicle. This will allow you to feel confident in your decision.

  • Is Your Transmission Failing?

    Your car’s transmission transfers power from your vehicle’s engine to its wheels. In this video, you will learn some signs that your car is in need of transmission repair near Sacramento. When you start to notice that your transmission is acting funny, this could indicate that it is failing . If your transmission fluid is starting to smell burnt, this is another indicator that your car is having problems.

    With services from a shop that specializes in transmission repair, you will be able to get your car back on the road in no time. From minor leaks to full rebuilds, your mechanic will have no problem providing you with the services that are required to return your transmission to a fully operational condition.

  • Preserving the Life of Your Fuel Pump

    You need fuel in order for your vehicle to operate, and your fuel pump is an integral part of the system. If you take proper care of your fuel pump, you might never have to bring it into the auto shop in Sacramento for replacement. Work with your auto mechanic to maintain your fuel pump—and your vehicle in general—regularly, and try not to run your tank dry. You should also make sure you only work with qualified auto mechanics and car repair shops to avoid damage to your fuel system. Read on for tips on preserving the life of your fuel pump. fuel - pump

    Stick to a Maintenance Plan

    If you want your vehicle to continue to run as well as it did the day you drove it home for the first time, you need to stick to a maintenance plan. This means that in addition to taking your car to the auto shop, you should do what you can to maintain the car on your own. Sometimes this means nothing more than looking out for problem signs and understanding how to treat your car properly. By working with your auto mechanic and taking care of your car on your own, you can extend the life of your fuel pump.

    Don’t Empty Your Tank

    Running out of gas is an inconvenience no matter how you look at it, but it can be particularly harmful for your fuel pump. Your gas is partially responsible for keeping your fuel pump cool, so it’s best to avoid dropping below a quarter of a tank. Additionally, more fuel in the tank means less work for the fuel pump, and fewer trips to the auto shop. Make sure you fuel up whenever you start getting low.

    Only Work with Pros

    A shoddy looking auto shop may be your only option when you’re in the middle of nowhere. However, you should always do your best to find an auto mechanic that you can trust. Corroded nozzles and watered down gasoline can negatively impact your fuel pump, so try to see a reputable auto mechanic.

  • Get to Know Your Suspension

    When you have a problem with your suspension, you can always visit your auto mechanic in Sacramento . However, you should also have some idea of how it works so you can take care of it. Check out this video and get to know your suspension.

    Whenever you drive down a particularly rocky road or cross over a speed bump, you rely on your suspension to keep the ride comfortable. Your rear suspension takes power from the engine and converts it to the wheels, and your leaf spring secures your rear axle. Keep in mind that different driving conditions will impact your suspension in different ways. Highway driving shouldn’t strain your suspension so much, but bumpy roads can take their toll. If you feel like your car doesn’t drive as smoothly as it should, you might want to talk to your auto mechanic about replacing your old shocks with new ones.

  • What Does It Mean When Your Car Leaks Oil?

    In order to take proper care of your car, you will want to pay attention to any leaks that may appear in your driveway after your vehicle has been sitting in park for any length of time. An oil leak is among the most common types of leaks that can affect German cars. If your car is leaking oil, this may indicate that it has a cracked seal or degraded engine gasket. Leaking oil can also cause other problems. Oil can get on hoses, belts, mounts & bushings, degrade the rubber. It can get in to electrical components & connectors & cause check engine lights. It can get on exhaust components & cause smoking & burning smells. To get to the bottom of what is causing your oil leak, you will want to make an appointment with a certified auto mechanic in Sacramento.

    With service from a mechanic that specializes in German auto repair, you can make sure that your oil leak is not causing major damage to your engine. Your mechanic will have the tools that are needed to fully repair the oil leak and restore your engine to clean working condition. If you have recently spotted an unusual leak beneath your car, do not hesitate to schedule car repair services .

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  • A Preventative Maintenance Guide for Porsche Owners

    A luxurious Porsche vehicle will be crafted to meet the demands of the discerning driver. Whether you have recently purchased a new Porsche, or you are a lifelong Porsche owner, you will want to make sure that you bring your vehicle to an auto mechanic that specializes in German car repair . A mechanic that repairs German cars near Sacramento can provide the finely-tuned components of your Porsche with the care and attention that they need to remain in great operating condition. Let’s review some essential preventative maintenance tips that all Porsche owners should keep in mind. porsche - maintenance

    Pay Attention to Your Brakes

    In order to harness the incredible power of your Porsche’s engine, you will need to make sure that your vehicle is equipped with a properly working set of brakes. If you hear squealing noises whenever you hit the brake pedal, this is a sure sign that you need to set up brake maintenance with your mechanic. Having your brakes & brake fluid inspected at regular intervals will help to ensure the safety of your Porsche.

    Inspect Your Tires

    During your routine preventative maintenance procedures for your Porsche, you will also want to make sure that you inspect your tires. As your tires start to wear down and lose their tread, they will no longer provide your Porsche with the traction that it needs to drive safely or efficiently. When you notice the tread wear indicator bars appearing on your tire treads, this will let you know that it is time to schedule a tire replacement with your mechanic. We also check manufacturing dates on your tires. Your tires may look new but they can be old. An old tire can be just as dangerous if not more dangerous than a worn tire. Old tires can come a part under the stress that you can put your vehicle under.

    Choose the Right Engine Oil

    Changing your engine oil is an essential preventative maintenance step for your Porsche. When you bring your Porsche in for an oil change, you will want to check with your mechanic to make sure that you are using a high quality motor oil that is suited for the delicate components of your engine. Most modern Porsches require owners to use high-grade synthetic oil, which helps to keep the engine clean and lubricated. We also recommend an oil change once a year no matter how few mile you may have on your vehicle.

  • Driving Habits That Could Be Damaging Your Transmission

    Transmission repair is vital for maintaining the performance and integrity of your vehicle. By scheduling regular transmission repair for your automatic transmission, you can make sure that your vehicle runs smoothly for every mile that you drive. With services from a transmission shop in Sacramento, you will be able to address any issues that are troubling your car’s transmission system. Between transmission repair appointments, there are a few steps that you can take on your own that will help to preserve your transmission. Let’s review some common driving habits that could be causing damage to your transmission. transmission - repairs

    Rapid Acceleration

    In order to allow your vehicle to accelerate quickly, your transmission must quickly shift through many of its internal gears. If you are the type of driver that prefers to accelerate quickly through traffic, you may be causing damage to your car’s transmission. In order to ensure that your transmission is able to last for as long as possible, it is a good idea to drive smoothly and without sudden spurts of acceleration. Also a key thing to remember, allow your vehicle to come to a complete stop before you switch between forward & reverse gears. That rapid transition could be damaging.

    Leaving Your Foot on the Clutch

    Drivers of manual transmissions will have additional considerations when it comes to their driving habits. One common habit that could be hurting your transmission is a tendency to leave your foot on the clutch. If you neglect to take your foot off of the clutch between shifting, you may be keeping your clutch in constant engagement. Over time, this habit may cause your clutch to wear prematurely.

    Driving Up Steep Hills

    If you want to make sure that your transmission lasts for as long as possible, you may need to adjust the routes that you drive every day. Driving up and down very steep, hilly terrain can place excess wear and strain on your vehicle’s transmission. By choosing the flattest route possible, you can ensure that your transmission lasts for the lifespan of your car. Your mechanic can provide you with additional tips and information about how to care for your transmission.