Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

8 Tips For Finding a Great Auto Repair Center

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When your car is in need of repair, it can be tough to find a repair center. You want one that is affordable, yet will provide quality service. With so many repair centers available, it can be hard to figure out which ones are actually worthwhile – and which ones should be avoided at all costs. The following tips will help you find a great auto repair center:

1.    Find an auto repair center in your community. If they are in your community, they will be more focused on their reputation, as word spreads fast. Don’t be afraid to go in and talk with the sales team and/or mechanics before you need repair. Start with something small to begin to build a relationship.

2.    Make sure your chosen auto tech is trained to service your vehicle. Try to choose one that is A.S.E. certified – this means that he or she is certified for Automotive Service Excellence.

3.    When you go in for service, have all of your maintenance and repair records handy. You want your new auto tech to know exactly what work has been performed on your car, as well as your maintenance history. [Read more…]

Building A Roadside Emergency Kit

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In today’s society, having a vehicle is almost a must – especially in areas without an abundance of public transportation. Owning a vehicle gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want to go.

However, driving a car does not come without its own risks. Automobiles are only machines and they can break down – often at the most inopportune times. If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, a roadside emergency kit is essential.

The following items are must-haves for any roadside emergency kit.

  • Jumper cables – for jump-starting your car if the battery dies
  • Tire repair kit – to make emergency repairs to punctures in your tire
  • Tow rope – in case your car cannot be repaired and you need to be towed to the nearest service station
  • Flashlight with extra batteries – no one wants to be left in the dark
  • Orange cone(s) – to place around your car to warn other motorists that you are on the side of the road
  • Gloves – perfect for freezing temperatures
  • Rain gear – essential for working on your car in rainy weather
  • Blanket – another useful item for freezing temperatures
  • Water – necessary, in case help is not quick to arrive
  • Zip ties – useful plastic ties that can help make temporary repairs to your car
  • Food (granola bars and other items with a long shelf life) – again, necessary in the event of a long wait for help
  • First aid kit – necessary for any minor injuries

Within the first aid kit, you should have:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Gauze
  • Cotton balls
  • Bandages/Band-Aids
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Pain relievers (Tylenol)
  • Antibiotic cream

With a roadside emergency kit, you have one less thing to worry about – if your car breaks down, you will know that you are prepared for the worst. Preparing a roadside emergency kit takes only a few minutes (once you have all of the supplies) and you can pack the items into any backpack, duffel bag or other carrying case for easy transport.

7 Things To Think About At The Auto Repair Shop

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Running in to your local auto repair shop for a quick oil change is easy. Yet what happens when your oil change turns into something more? Instead of being surprised the next time you are told about a major auto repair from a shop you aren’t familiar with, go in prepared. Instead of saying “yes” to whatever surprises they throw at you, have your own set of responses to make sure you are getting the kind of service you deserve.

1. Start by looking at the condition of the auto repair shop. A good mechanic will make sure his equipment and the area he works in organized, clean and in good working condition. You won’t find old parts stacked in the corner, and trash strewn across the floor. This is his business and he should be showcasing a professional look for his customers.

2. Estimates should be a fact of life. When you drop off your car for one reason, the written estimate should cover work realted to that service alone. If additional problems are discovered, make sure you will be contacted with a quote before any work is done. This should include parts and labor. Never accept surprises. [Read more…]

12 Auto Repair Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Car

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The economy is rough and gas prices are on the rise. So it comes as no surprise that you want to keep your car running in tip-top shape for as long as possible. After all, not everyone has the funds to drop on a new vehicle in today’s economy.

Keeping your car in the best running shape possible is not that difficult. It just takes a little time and effort on your part. If you are willing to invest in your investment – your car – your automobile will have a long and happy life.

1.    Use common sense when driving – Instead of adding unnecessary wear and tear on your car by racing away from every stop sign, accelerate gently. Not only will you use less gas, you will lessen the wear on your brakes. Make all of your stops in one, long trip, rather than taking your car out numerous times throughout the day.

2.    Pay attention to your choice of gas stations –Choose a reputable gas station when buying fuel. The damage you can do to your car from cheaper, possibly watered-down gas will cost you much more than a few extra cents on quality fuel.

3.    Take care when choosing an insurance provider – Yes, you can find the minimum required insurance for a low cost – everyone has seen the T.V. commercials. However, you get what you pay for – if your car is damaged in an accident, you want the best coverage possible to ensure repairs are made. [Read more…]

Use Your Senses As An Auto Repair Guide

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We are all familiar with the “mechanic scenario”.  Your car has finally caused enough trouble you take it to the shop.  You hand over your keys with a hope and a prayer that they will be able to fix your car without breaking your wallet.  Yet you have no idea how to explain what is wrong.

If you are the “non-mechanical” type, here are a few things you can do with simple observations to help maintain your car.  With your five senses (and a little common sense) you can get an idea of what is wrong with your car before you bring it in. And have basic knowledge to understand how to explain it to your mechanic.

Sight – Sight is probably the easiest sense to integrate.  You already use this sense to tell you when your car needs gas or when one of the dash lights comes on.  In addition to these simple steps, as you walk to your car, look to see if anything is hanging from the undercarriage.  Plastic protective covers can easily be reattached if they are discovered in time.  Is the tailpipe bent?  This could be signs of an exhaust leak.  Are their fluids leaking onto the pavement?  Any fluid leaking enough to leave a mark on the pavement (aside from condensation from AC) needs to be looked at by a mechanic. [Read more…]

Spring Auto Repair Tips: Test Your Air Conditioner Before The Heat Rolls In

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Summer is approaching and with it comes the hot, summer temperatures. While your home may be cool and comfortable, your car could be another matter. Driving in the heat is an uncomfortable experience – for some people, heat cannot be tolerated at all. This is why it is essential for you to test your car’s air conditioner before summer sets in. Fixing any potential problems in advance will ensure that you are driving in cool comfort all summer long.

Test your air conditioner while it is still cool outside. If you find a problem, you can fix it before the heat waves begin.

If your AC is blowing warm, there are two likely culprits – leaks or broken parts. As your car gets older, it is not uncommon for the air conditioning system to develop leaks. You can have a mechanic test your AC to pinpoint any leaks and repair them. [Read more…]

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