AUTONET TV

Step Up your Stops

Let’s face it.  Many of us take our vehicle’s brakes for granted.  We step on the pedal, the brakes slow us down and stop us.  They’re also vital to helping us control our vehicles.  That’s why it’s important to think about brakes as one of the most important safety systems we have.  

Malfunctioning brakes increase our risk of accidents, can lower our fuel efficiency because of increased friction and can prematurely wear the other components of our vehicles.  

One of the ways we can keep our brake systems working properly is by periodically having the brake fluid replaced.  That means the old brake fluid in a hydraulic braking system is removed and replaced with clean, fresh fluid.  Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and may cause the inside of the brake system to corrode. 

Replacing the brake fluid is not as simple as just draining the old fluid out and putting new in. Our technician uses specially-designed equipment to push the old fluid and contaminants (rust particles, dirt, air bubbles) out of the brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinder and master cylinder.  

When you come to us for a brake fluid replacement, you will find your braking performance will be as consistent and responsive as it used to be.  Your risk of brake fade or failure when you brake hard will be reduced. And brake fluid replacement will help prevent internal rust and corrosion in brake components. 

Some manufacturers recommend brake fluid replacement every 2 to 3 years, but it depends on what vehicle you drive, how you drive it and in what conditions. Your advisor will be glad to help you set up your next brake fluid service.

Acheson Auto Works
8000 UNIVERSITY BLVD
CLIVE, IA 50325
515-223-4300

Let’s Clear the Air

In an effort to keep the air we breathe clean, modern vehicles with internal combustion engines are designed to reduce the emissions by recirculating exhaust gas into the engine.  It has a part that controls how much of that gas to put back into the engine, and that’s known as the EGR valve.

EGR stands for exhaust gas recirculation, and when your fails or get blocked up, you might notice a few of telltale signs.  You may find your acceleration is slow or uneven, your vehicle stalls or idles roughly, you notice a knock or ping when you step on the gas or your fuel economy isn’t what it used to be.  

If your vehicle has those symptoms, bring it in so a technician can track down what is causing the problems. It’s important to have your vehicle checked because a bad EGR valve can lead to expensive engine damage if the combustion temperatures get too high.  An overheated engine can cause your head gasket to fail.  Plus, you may damage your vehicle’s valves and cylinders.  A bad EGR valve can also result in damage to your catalytic converter, another expensive item to replace. 

Our technicians can scan your vehicle’s computers for codes, test the EGR valve and inspect its wiring and vacuum lines.  If they determine it’s the EGR valve, they’ll install a new one with a new gasket, reconnect the electrical plugs and vacuum hoses, then check how the system is working by taking your vehicle for a test drive. 

When you’re back on the road, you will know that your emissions will be cleaner, your fuel economy better and your engine should last longer.  

Acheson Auto Works
8000 UNIVERSITY BLVD
CLIVE, IA 50325
515-223-4300

Don’t Skip Out on These! (Vehicle Maintenance Items You Should Never Postpone)

Maybe that little sticker on your windshield is giving you the reminder that it’s time for your vehicle to have an oil change.  You’ve thought, “Aw, I can skip this one and save myself a little money.”  When it comes to things you should never ignore on your vehicle, timely oil changes are number one on the list.  

When the oil stays in your vehicle too long, it can accumulate dirty particles and begin to break down, defeating its lubricating properties.  Skipping or delaying an oil change can lead to far more expensive repairs down the line.

Another is seeing a warning light and doing nothing about it.  Lights that advise you to check your engine or tell you things are running hotter than usual under the hood can be early warning signs to have a technician determine why.  Consider getting the answer earlier rather than later.  It could save you major headaches and money.

Don’t skip having important fluids checked. That includes your engine coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid.  Big repairs may lie ahead if you ignore them too long.

And don’t put off having other regular maintenance services performed on your vehicle that your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends. Ignoring that recommended interval may void certain warranties, leading you to have to pay for a repair you may not have had to cover yourself.

Regular battery checks are another basic inspection that’s often overlooked.  Batteries can seem like they’re fine until they’re not, and being caught with a dead battery at an inopportune time can cause you unnecessary inconvenience and bills.

Oh, and please don’t skip regular tire inspections, either. A pro should regularly look at the tread, sidewalls and date of manufacture.  A tire failure at high speed can be very dangerous to you and others around you. And if you’re driving with worn tires on slick surfaces, your steering, handling and braking may let you down.

Sure, maintenance costs money and time, but it may save you money in the long run.

Acheson Auto Works
8000 UNIVERSITY BLVD
CLIVE, IA 50325
515-223-4300

The New Blade in Town

If your windshield wipers are streaking and chattering when you turn them on in the rain or snow, it's time for a little "blade renewal." And when it comes to new wiper blades, there are some new designs that are worth a look.

One of the latest is called the beam blade.  It's different than conventional blades you might be used to.  Instead of a metal frame and a rubber blade that slides in the frame on a track, the beam blades have an enclosed spring-steel band that allows the rubber wiper to conform to the windshield glass shape much more tightly. 

There are some key advantages to beam blades, which is why many vehicle manufacturers are making them standard on their latest models.  For one thing, they work well in all weather conditions, including the heat of summer and the icy, snowy cold of winter.  Since there is no separate frame, snow and ice can't form in gaps like conventional wipers and prevent the blade from clearing your windshield. 

Many beam blades also have a mini "wing" on them. It uses the air moving over your windshield to create a little extra downward pressure that presses the blade even more tightly against the glass.  The faster you go, the more firmly the blade can sweep off moisture. That means a clearer view. 

Beam blades are an upgrade that can add to your vehicle's overall safety with that increased visibility.  The best thing is to discuss wiper blades with your service advisor to see if it's a good choice for you and your vehicle, keeping in mind the type of driving you do and the climate you live in.  Remember that when it comes to wipers, it's important that you are using blades that are designed to fit your vehicle and that they are installed correctly. 

Acheson Auto Works
8000 UNIVERSITY BLVD
CLIVE, IA 50325
515-223-4300