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Why You Should Get a PPI Before Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle

Why You Should Get a PPI Before Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle

Thinking of gifting a pre-owned car, SUV, or truck for the holidays? Or simply want to treat yourself to a new vehicle? Before you jump into buying a car, there are many things you should consider like where you’re buying from, who you’re buying from, what kind of car you want, how old is the car, etc. All things aside, there is a lot of research that you should do to avoid making the mistake of buying a lemon. The surest way to back up the decision process is by getting a pre-purchase inspection or PPI. A PPI is a thorough assessment of a used vehicle, one that is on the market to be sold. This evaluation can give you insight into the vehicle’s health and may uncover any problems that may require repairs. It serves to help you make an educated, more confident decision about buying a car that fits your wants, needs, and overall expectations.  Where Can I Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection? At Village Transmission & Auto Clinic, of course! Our technicians are exp ... read more

When Do You Need a Brake Rotor Replacement?

When Do You Need a Brake Rotor Replacement?

Did you know you wear down your brake rotor every time you brake? When you brake, the pressure applied to the brake pedal gets transferred to the brake pads, which clamp the brake rotor to reduce the speed. They continue to wear, and after about 70,000 miles (112,654.08 km), you will need to replace them. But how do you know when you need a brake rotor replacement? Signs You Need to Replace Your Brake Rotor The lifespan of your brake rotors depends on how you treat them and how often you use your car. However, keep an eye on the following signs; The Brake Pedal Vibrate When Braking The vibrations may be caused by pad deposits that collect on the surface of the rotors. The high spots created increase friction and can cause an overheated braking system. Loud Noises When Braking You may hear loud noises due to increased grinding and dragging effects. The corrosion on the brake rotor triggers the mechanical wear sensor that is supposed to draw your attention to worn brake pads. Howe ... read more

What Are the Most Common Car Electrical System Problems?

What Are the Most Common Car Electrical System Problems?

Vehicles are full of electrical systems that make driving easier. Unfortunately, sometimes they fail. If your vehicle is having trouble, look for these signs of common electrical system problems. Battery This is the most common cause of electrical issues in cars. Batteries can weaken and fail because of age, damage, loose wires, or something draining their power. If the battery just needs a recharge, a jump should get you going for at least a little while. However, recharging also takes a chunk out of the battery's life span. A fully dead battery will need replacing before you can get moving again. Starter If your engine won't turn over, your starter or solenoid may be bad. Often you'll just get a click or series of clicks when trying to start. A failed solenoid can also affect braking. This issue needs the prompt attention of a mechanic. Alternator It's the alternator's job to keep the battery charged as you drive. If the alternator fails, the car will slow d ... read more

What Is 30/60/90K Maintenance?

What Is 30/60/90K Maintenance?

If you’ve ever heard the numbers 30/60/90K in an automotive setting, it usually refers to auto maintenance. In simple terms, these numbers correlate to the intervals for factory scheduled maintenance. This plan is designed by car manufacturers to keep your vehicle’s specific make and model to keep it running smoothly for as long as possible. Most automakers make it a condition as a part of their warranty.   Each time you’re due for a 30,000 mile, 60,000 mile, or 90,000 mile service, have peace of mind that your mechanic will inspect your vehicle carefully for signs of problems. If your automobile checks out, they’ll follow through with a series of maintenance items. They may include topping off or replacing fluids, changing filters, and inspecting the timing belt. Additionally, we will check your tire pressure and rotate the tires. Brakes are also a popular item on that list.    At Village Transmission & Auto Clinic, we will make replaceme ... read more

What Causes a Car To Overheat?

What Causes a Car To Overheat?

Nothing is as important as keeping your car cool when temperatures rise. Normally, you may not flinch if it's the typical movie scene with a car whose engine is smoking. But experiencing this in real life may throw you into a deep panic and a jarring halt. Smoke coming out of your engine indicates overheating. Most cars are built to be durable and withstand extreme conditions. But when the temperature goes beyond the standard endurance level, it overheats. Of all the problems, overheating is the most serious. It's therefore vital to always be prepared for such unexpected issues. But what do you do if you have no mechanical experience or can't identify the cause? You can follow these few precautions. Pull over immediately Get out of the car, and assess the situation but don't panic Only keep moving if necessary or in unsafe locations to somewhere safe Turn off the AC and increase the heat. It may pull some heat away from the engine Roll down all t ... read more

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