We know that the brakes are used to slow and stop your vehicle.  In the early years of the automotive industry, the brake systems were sometimes unreliable.  The modern automotive brake system has been developed and refined and is considered dependable and efficient. 

The most typical brake system consists of brake disks (generally in the front) and either disk or drum brakes in the rear.  These are connected by a system of tubes and hoses that link the brake at each wheel to the master cylinder.  The disk brakes work like a vise, closing around the outer side of the vehicle’s rotor.  The brake shoes push against the inside surface of a rotating brake drum to slow the vehicle. 

The parking brakes, power brake booster and the anti-lock braking system (ABS) are all connected with the brake system.  The anti-lock braking systems are computer-controlled and found on newer vehicles.  These and other traction control devises are safety features designed to prevent wheel lock-up and potential skidding.

The friction surfaces of the pads on a disk brake system, or the shoes on a drum brake, convert the forward motion of the vehicle into the heat.  It is the heat that causes the friction surfaces or linings of the brake pads and shoes to eventually wear out and require replacement.

How can Alabama Auto Repair help with your brake problems? We’ll do a brake inspection for you and, if your vehicle is in need of brake work, we won’t charge you a penny for the brake inspection.

For brake work on your vehicle, think Alabama Auto Repair!

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Air Conditioning (A/C) is simply the process of removing heat from matter. All matter above the temperature of 459 degrees F contains energy in the form of heat. Heat always moves from hot to cold.

The function of the air conditioning system in your vehicle is to improve upon the efficiency of this process of moving heat. To accomplish this, the A/C system uses three methods of removing heat from your vehicle: Radiant, Conduction and Convection.

How does this work?

• The heat in your vehicle is blown across the evaporator coils using convection;
• The heat is absorbed into the cool refrigerant (Freon, R-12, 4-134A, etc.) inside the coils using conduction;
• The refrigerant moves the heat to the condenser using convection;
• This heat is absorbed into the condenser fins using conduction;
• The heat then transfers back into the atmosphere using radiation;

The other important components include the regulation of humidity and understanding how air movement affects our comfort. Therefore, in order for your air conditioning system to be most effective it must do the following three things:

• Remove heat from the interior of the vehicle;
• Remove moisture from the interior of the vehicle;
• Provide movement of air in the interior of the vehicle.

What’s going on if your air conditioner is not blowing cold?

Simply stated, one of the primary components of your air conditioning system has broken down. A/C failure usually falls into one of three categories:

• Component Failure resulting in a lack of sufficient refrigerant to remove heat from the car is the most common failure and occurs in about 60% of all A/C failures. This is caused by a leak. One of our trained technicians can verify this by either using an electric leak detector or by injecting ultraviolet dye into the A/C system along with using an ultraviolet light.
• Electrical Problems represent approximately 30% of A/C failures. This can cause the compressor and fans to stop. Electrical failures could be caused by a failed sensor or the on-board automotive computer.
• Improper Refrigerant Charge causes approximately 10% of A/C problems. For a variety of reasons, when this occurs, the mixture of refrigerant to oil is out of balance.

The Best Way to determine what is actually wrong with your A/C system is to have one of our experienced technicians do a professional inspection. We can then provide you with a written estimate that will explain what we found and advise you regarding any needed repairs.

Stay Cool. For your vehicle’s Air Conditioning needs, come to Alabama Auto Repair!

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Heat is a by-product of the internal combustion engine. The primary job of the cooling system is to keep the engine from overheating by transferring this heat to the air. Another important job of the cooling system is to allow the engine to heat up as quickly as possible, and then to keep the engine at a constant temperature.

The Cooling System circulates a fluid through pipes and passageways in the engine. As this liquid passes through the hot engine, it absorbs heat, cooling the engine. After the liquid leaves the engine, it passes through a radiator, which transfers the heat from the fluid to the air blowing through the radiator.

Major System Components

• Anti-freeze – Anti-freeze is mixed with a precise volume of water to produce a solution that lowers the freezing point of this solution. This reduces the likelihood that the water in your closed cooling system will freeze, expand and damage the engine block and other system components. Anti-freeze also raises the boiling point of water under pressure, thereby enhancing the cooling system’s ability to remove and dissipate heat.
• Cooling Fans – If you’re stuck in traffic or driving slowly, you need something to “pull” the air over the radiator. This is the reason for cooling fans. Fans are usually mounted just behind the radiator. There are two types of cooling fans: Belt powered and electric powered.
• Radiator – The radiator is the cooling device designed to dissipate heat which the coolant has absorbed from the engine. It is constructed on a large surface area to dissipate the heat through convection with the air flowing through the radiator.
• Radiator Cap and Hoses – The radiator cap is an often-overlooked crucial part of the cooling process. It is designed to keep the coolant circulating under pressure. Hoses are used to connect the engine and the water pump to the radiator.
• Thermostat – The thermostat is responsible for allowing the engine to warm up to the proper operating temperature before allowing the cooling system to begin circulating coolant. The thermostat is located between the engine and the radiator and is essentially a temperature-sensitive spring valve. It stays closed during engine warm-up and then opens when the system reaches the proper operating temperature.

So, what if your vehicle is experiencing problems with the heating and cooling system? Our experienced technicians can check out the system components, let you know where the problem is, and then tell you how we can fix it. We’ll also provide you with a written estimate for any work that needs to be done.

For your vehicle’s Heating and Cooling needs, come to Alabama Auto Repair!

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Your suspension is the assembly system that absorbs bumps from the road and protects your vehicle – and you – from the impact of these irregular surfaces as you drive.

A simplified version of the different types of suspension consists of three basic components:

Shocks – Quite simply, shocks keep your tires in contact with the road and help absorb bumps.

Springs – These support the weight of the vehicle and help maintain proper riding height.

Struts – Generally found on modern vehicles, struts act as shocks and help wheels turn easily.

The most common suspension problem is wear from extended road use.  Another cause is a jarring impact, or a series of jarring impacts, that could cause breakage.

If something is wrong with your suspension, the most noticeable sign is bouncing.  The steering wheel will also feel loose.  If possible, check to see if your vehicle is sitting level.

How can Alabama Auto Repair assist with your suspension problems? We can help make your life easier (and safer) by having one of our trained technicians perform a complete vehicle safety inspection.  Shocks and struts wear out gradually, so problems may go unrecognized for a while.  We can check all the components of your suspension system to determine if there’s a problem and pinpoint the problem area.  Then, we’ll explain the problem to you and, with your approval, repair or replace only the parts that need repairing or replacing.

For Suspension work, think Alabama Auto Repair!

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Starting System
A modern-day vehicle’s starting system is composed of an electric starter motor and a starter solenoid.  The starter solenoid is the electrical switch, activated by the ignition system when you turn the key, which engages the starter motor.  The starter motor essentially spins the engine a few times so the combustion process can begin.

Charging System
The vehicle’s charging system consists of three main components:

• The battery
• The alternator
• The voltage regulator

The battery supplies electrical power for your vehicle while starting and during periods of high electrical loads.  It also acts as a shock absorber for the electrical system by smoothing out any voltage spikes before they get to the computer.

The alternator and voltage regulator provides power to the vehicle while the engine is running and maintains the battery’s charge.  The voltage regulator monitors the battery’s state of charge and directs the alternator to recharge the battery as necessary.

Extreme Cold and Your Battery
Cold temperatures severely reduce the effectiveness of chemical reactions within the battery and increase the battery’s internal resistance.  As the temperature drops, so does the battery’s cranking power.  Autos also require additional cranking power in cold weather since the motor oil is thicker, making the engine more difficult to turn over.  Weak batteries are also susceptible to freezing, which damages internal components and containers.

Extreme Heat and Your Battery
Heat is the primary cause of battery failure.  Heat causes the water in the battery’s electrolyte to evaporate and causes the positive plate grids to corrode more rapidly.

The Life of Your Battery
Battery life varies from vehicle to vehicle and is based on a number of factors.  Batteries are manufactured to last from two to five years, but exposure to extreme heat, vibration and malfunctioning components of your vehicle’s electrical system can shorten the battery’s useful life.

How can Alabama Auto Repair help with your vehicle’s starting and charging problems?  Our technicians can provide an Electrical Systems Charge Test that will check your vehicle’s battery, starter and alternator.

For your vehicle’s Starting and Charging problems, come to Alabama Auto Repair!

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Many of us remember learning to drive before we had Power Steering! Today, the Power Steering System allows you to apply little effort to the steering wheel when turning your vehicle.
Power steering fluid within the system converts your turning effort into very high hydraulic pressure, which moves linkages that are attached to your steering wheel.

The Major System Components include:

• Power-Steering Fluid - Power-Steering Fluid is highly formulated hydraulic oil that transfers power from an engine-driven hydraulic pump to hydraulic chambers attached to steering linkages. Precisely machined gears, valves and tubing rely on the fluid to lubricate and cool the system in all driving conditions.
• Power-Steering Pump – The Power-Steering Pump is the “heart” of the system. This creates the hydraulic pressure required to assist in turning the wheels. Supplied by its reservoir, the pump pressurizes the Power-Steering Fluid and directs it through tubing to the steering gear.
• Steering Gear – The Steering Gear is the component that causes the wheels to turn. It has small diameter passages and spring-loaded valves that direct pressurized Power Steering Fluid to reduce steering effort.

Similar to your engine oil, when subjected to extreme temperatures and friction, the Power-Steering Fluid can break down. The results are: contamination, loss of lubrication properties, and formation of varnish deposits. Worn out, contaminated Power-Steering Fluid can cause valves to stick and accelerate wear in the pump. This can lead to pump squeal, leaking seals, and “chatter.” Ignoring these problems can lead to mechanical failure and costly repairs.

If you’re having Power-Steering problems, one of our trained technicians can flush your Power-Steering System and remove the old, worn out fluid, then replace it with new fluid. We can inspect your Power-Steering System and advise you if we find any concerns. Come to Alabama Auto Repair for your Power-Steering needs!

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How often should I have my oil changed?
Most manufactures recommend that you change your vehicle’s oil and oil filter every 3 months or every 3,000 miles, whichever comes first.  You should consult your owner’s manual for the exact specifications for your vehicle or ask us for a Free Manufacturer’s Scheduled Maintenance Guide for your vehicle.  Some newer vehicles are programmed for up to 6,000 miles under “normal” driving conditions.  Your owner’s manual will have “normal” and “severe” recommendations.  Severe driving conditions include driving in stop-and-go traffic, making frequent short trips (less than 5 miles per trip), lengthy high-speed trips, driving in extreme temperatures (over 90*F or below freezing), and towing and hauling.  The average driver probably considers his or her driving conditions normal, but the truth is that most of us drive under severe conditions far more often that we realize and should time our oil changes accordingly.

Are You Keeping Track Of Your Vehicle’s Recommended Maintenance?
All automotive manufacturers require regularly scheduled maintenance to keep your warranty valid, your vehicle safe, and to extend the life of your vehicle.

Let Alabama Auto Repair Do It For You!
Our shop has instant access to the data base of scheduled maintenance for all automotive manufacturers including Ford, GM, Chrysler, Honda, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Hyundai, and more.  We also keep track of all inspections and work performed on your vehicle.

The oil change is just the beginning of maintaining your vehicle as safe and dependable transportation.  Routine maintenance is also required to keep the vehicle’s warranty in effect.

The first place to start when looking for information about a specific vehicle is your Owner’s Manual.  The Owner’s Manual is the dusty, seldom used book found in the glove compartment of your car.  You probably swore that you would read it cover to cover when you initially invested in your car! The information provided here is representative of what you would find in your owner’s manual, but for the most accurate information, open the glove box and refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations found in the owner’s manual for your vehicle.

Mileage Intervals
Your owner’s manual will break down the necessary maintenance for you by mileage intervals.  While these schedules vary slightly from one manufacturer to the other, they all are designed to keep your vehicle in a safe working condition.  And while today’s automobiles often last for 150,000 miles or more, it is a common misconception that they need “less” maintenance.  By design, it is the periodic maintenance, designed wear and replacement of predetermined components, that allow the vehicle to operate as long as it does.  Generally, your vehicle needs some type of service every 3,000 miles.  Manufacturers have also established major service intervals every 12,000 miles for some components and every 15,000 miles for others.  Here is a partial list.  For a complete list, refer to your owner’s manual.

3,000 Mile Intervals
• Oil Changes
• Inspect all fluid levels, belts, hoses, filters, and tire pressure
• Lubricate and inspect front suspension, drive line, etc.

12,000 – 15,000 Mile Intervals
(Add the following to the 3,000 mile interval)
• Balance and Rotate Wheels
• Brake Inspection – front, rear, and parking
• Inspect Exhaust System for leaks and damage
• Check four-wheel alignment

30,000 Mile Intervals
(Add the following to the 12,000 Mile intervals)
• Replace PCV valve
• Replace air cleaner and PCV filter
• Replace or adjust spark plugs
• Replace fuel filter
• Perform transmission fluid service
• Perform fuel system service
• Perform cooling system flush and service
• Inspect EGR System
• Inspect wires and connectors
• Check engine timing
• Inspect fuel tank cap and lines

The key to trouble-free ownership and use of your favorite car or truck is adherence to the routine maintenance schedule established by the manufacturer of your vehicle.  Please don’t ignore this important aspect of vehicle ownership.

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