The Evolution of Automotive Technology: What’s Next for Cars?

Automotive Technology Evolution

Automotive Technology Evolution

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, the pace of innovation continues to accelerate, reshaping the way we think about cars, mobility, and transportation at large. The journey from the invention of the wheel to the development of autonomous vehicles illustrates a fascinating story of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of progress. As we look to the future, several emerging trends and technologies promise to further transform the automotive industry. Here’s what we can expect in the next chapters of automotive evolution.

Electrification of Vehicles

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is arguably the most significant transformation occurring in the automotive industry today. Driven by a global effort to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, the electrification of vehicles is set to become the new standard. EVs offer the dual benefits of reducing dependency on fossil fuels and minimizing air pollution, marking a significant step forward in eco-friendly transportation. Future advancements in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries, are expected to offer longer ranges, faster charging times, and improved safety features, making EVs more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.

Autonomous Driving

Autonomous or self-driving cars are on the brink of transitioning from experimental projects to mainstream reality. This shift is fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and sensor technology. Autonomous vehicles promise to enhance road safety by reducing human error, which is responsible for the majority of traffic accidents. Moreover, they hold the potential to revolutionize personal mobility, especially for those unable to drive due to physical limitations. The challenges ahead involve not only technological hurdles but also regulatory, ethical, and societal considerations as we integrate these vehicles into our daily lives.

Connectivity and IoT Integration

The future car is more than just a vehicle; it’s a connected device. The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) into automotive technology is leading to vehicles that can communicate with each other and with infrastructure (V2X communication), enhancing road safety and traffic efficiency. This connectivity also extends to personal devices, enabling drivers to maintain a seamless digital experience, from navigation to entertainment. Furthermore, data collected from connected vehicles could be used to improve vehicle design, traffic management, and even urban planning.

Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Techniques

Innovation in materials science is set to redefine the construction of vehicles. The use of lightweight, high-strength materials, such as carbon fiber and advanced alloys, promises to improve fuel efficiency and performance while ensuring safety. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing techniques, including 3D printing, are beginning to play a role in producing complex vehicle components more efficiently and with less waste, further contributing to the sustainability of automotive production processes.

Personalization Through Technology

As digital technology becomes increasingly integrated into vehicles, the potential for personalization grows. Future cars will likely offer advanced customization options, from ambient interior lighting to adaptive driving modes that adjust to individual preferences and driving styles. AI-powered virtual assistants could provide a more interactive and responsive in-car experience, learning from the driver’s habits and preferences to enhance safety, comfort, and entertainment.

The Road Ahead

The automotive industry stands at the cusp of a technological revolution, with innovations that promise to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. As these technologies mature and become more integrated into the fabric of automotive design and production, they will not only redefine the concept of the car but also the very nature of transportation and mobility. The road ahead is indeed exciting, and the potential for a positive impact on society and the environment is immense. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of these advancements, one thing is clear: the future of cars is bright, and the journey has just begun.

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Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your vehicle is crucial for ensuring its longevity, efficiency, and safety. This blog post delves into essential tips every car owner should know to master vehicle maintenance.

Understanding Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule

Your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, typically found in the owner’s manual, is a crucial roadmap the manufacturer provides. It specifies when various maintenance tasks should be performed to keep the vehicle in optimal condition. Adhering to this schedule is essential for several reasons:

  1. Longevity: Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your vehicle.
  2. Safety: Timely checks and repairs ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.
  3. Performance and Efficiency: Properly maintained vehicles run more efficiently, potentially saving fuel and reducing emissions.
  4. Preventing Major Repairs: Regular maintenance can help identify and fix minor issues before they become major, expensive problems.
  5. Resale Value: A well-maintained vehicle often retains a higher resale value.

Each vehicle has a unique maintenance schedule, considering factors like mileage and age. Typical maintenance items include oil changes, tire rotation, brake checks, and fluid level inspections. Following these guidelines keeps your vehicle running smoothly and gives you peace of mind.

Vehicle Maintenance Tips: Follow Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule

Usually found in the owner’s manual, this schedule guides when various maintenance tasks, like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, should be done. Following it ensures your vehicle runs efficiently and safely, extends its lifespan, and helps avoid costly repairs. It’s a proactive approach to vehicle care, ensuring that your car remains reliable and performs at its best while potentially preserving its resale value. Regular maintenance is critical to a well-functioning vehicle.

Regular Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of an engine, lubricating and protecting it from wear and heat. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective. Regular changes ensure your engine runs with fresh, clean oil, preventing premature engine wear and maintaining efficiency. The frequency of oil changes varies by vehicle and usage but generally ranges from every 3,000 to 7,500 miles. Staying on top of this simple maintenance task can significantly extend the life and performance of your vehicle’s engine.

Tire Care

Proper tire maintenance includes regular tire pressure and tread depth checks to ensure optimal grip and fuel efficiency. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to uneven wear, reduced traction, and increased risk of tire failure. Rotating tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendation helps achieve uniform wear, extending their life. It’s also essential to have tires aligned and balanced to prevent vibration and uneven wear. Maintaining your tires enhances your vehicle’s handling and safety and saves money by prolonging tire life.

Brake Maintenance

Regular inspections are crucial to ensuring safety. This involves checking brake pads for wear, ensuring brake fluid is at the correct level, and monitoring for any unusual noises or feelings when braking. Well-maintained brakes are crucial for effective stopping and safe driving, particularly in emergencies. Regular brake maintenance ensures your safety and helps avoid more costly repairs in the future.

Battery Maintenance

“Battery Maintenance” involves ensuring your car battery functions appropriately and efficiently. This includes checking the battery for corrosion, ensuring it’s securely mounted, and regularly testing its charge level. A healthy battery is essential for starting your car and powering electrical components. Regular maintenance can prevent unexpected battery failures and extend its life. It’s also necessary to replace the battery before it fails, typically every 3-5 years, depending on usage and climate.

Check Fluid Levels

“Check Fluid Levels” emphasizes the importance of regularly monitoring the levels of various fluids in your vehicle. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Keeping these fluids at the correct levels is crucial for the smooth operation of your vehicle. It ensures efficient performance, prevents overheating, and reduces the risk of mechanical failures. Neglecting fluid levels can lead to severe damage and costly repairs. Regular checks and timely top-ups or changes can help maintain your vehicle’s health and performance.

Replace Filters

“Replace Filters” focuses on the importance of regularly changing your vehicle’s air and cabin filters. These filters are crucial for maintaining good air quality inside your car and ensuring efficient engine operation. A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel efficiency, while a fresh cabin filter keeps the interior air-free from pollutants and allergens. Over time, filters become clogged with dirt and debris, diminishing their effectiveness. As per the manufacturer’s guidelines, regular replacement is a simple yet essential aspect of vehicle maintenance that contributes to the overall health and comfort of your driving experience.

Dashboard Indicators

“Dashboard Indicators” covers understanding the various warning lights and symbols that may appear on your vehicle’s dashboard. These indicators alert you to aspects of your vehicle’s status or issues, ranging from low fuel to engine problems. Familiarizing yourself with these symbols is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health and addressing any issues promptly. Ignoring these indicators can lead to more severe problems or vehicle damage. This section should encourage drivers to consult their vehicle’s manual for specific meanings and recommended actions when certain lights appear.

Seasonal Maintenance

“Seasonal Maintenance” highlights the importance of adjusting your vehicle’s maintenance routine to the changing seasons. Weather conditions can affect your vehicle’s various aspects, from the engine to the tires. For example, winter demands special attention to antifreeze levels, battery performance, and tire traction, while summer focuses on air conditioning efficiency and preventing overheating. This section would emphasize proactive steps for each season to ensure your vehicle performs reliably and safely year-round. Regular seasonal checks and adjustments can prevent weather-related damages and provide a comfortable driving experience in any condition.

Professional Inspections

“Professional Inspections” underscores the importance of regularly having your vehicle inspected by certified professionals. These inspections are more thorough than routine check-ups and can identify underlying issues that might not be obvious to the average car owner. A professional mechanic can comprehensively evaluate your vehicle’s health, including the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension systems. Regular professional inspections help ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently and can prevent costly repairs in the long run by catching issues early. They are an essential part of responsible vehicle ownership and maintenance.

In conclusion, regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your vehicle but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. Record all maintenance activities for future reference and peace of mind. Remember, a well-maintained car is a reliable companion on the road.

Vehicle Maintenance Tips: Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

Your car deserves the best care. Don’t wait for a breakdown to think about maintenance. Schedule a professional inspection with us today and ensure your vehicle is in top condition for every journey. Our team of certified experts is dedicated to providing the highest quality service, ensuring your safety and peace of mind on the road. Book your appointment now and take the first step towards hassle-free, reliable driving. Let’s keep your car running smoothly together!

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Vehicle inspection

We would all agree that a house is one of the biggest investments you will make in a lifetime. With that said, when purchasing a home, you want to be sure that everything about the home and property is in order. There is a whole lot of money that goes into buying a home, so it makes sense to be sure there are no costly problems or repairs that you will get stuck paying for once you sign on the dotted line. A vehicle is typically the second largest investment we will make which is why we want to be sure that we are making a good investment. A vehicle has a lot of components that can ultimately require repair or replacement. With this thought in mind, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin recommends that you spend a little bit of money on a vehicle inspection before committing to make that buy.

A Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection is Essential

It may appear a bit overboard to some people, but surely a pre-purchase vehicle inspection can be quite beneficial and essential. As a buyer, you may very well not be an expert in vehicles and their endless components. For this reason, we believe it is important and practical to hire a trusted automotive expert to perform an inspection of your pre-owned vehicle before you hand over any cash or a check. An inspection would normally include the following:

  • A test drive of the vehicle
  • An assessment of the car’s computer system and its monitoring
  • An assessment of the dash warning system, lights and bulbs
  • Electrical system check
  • Exhaust system check
  • Heating and cooling system check
  • Battery and its charging
  • All lights both interior and exterior
  • Proper ignition performance
  • Mechanical system checkup including suspension, steering, belts and hoses
  • Ensuring there are no leaks of any kind
  • Checking all fluids and levels
  • Assessment of brakes and tires
  • Ensuring the integrity of the windshield wipers

The Facts Are Simple

We realize that this may seem like an awful lot of checking and assessing, but that’s because it is. You want to be sure to have a comprehensive, thorough inspection performed on a vehicle before you make that all important purchase. There are a vast number of components and checkpoints that should come into consideration during an inspection.

Most individuals when looking to purchase a vehicle are more focused on the year, make and model of the vehicle as well as the price, the color, and even the stereo system. Many, however, lose sight of the fact that there are other important components besides the tangible ones that are appealing, that are ever so important when making a purchase. If we are honest, regardless of the make and color of your vehicle and its pleasing stereo system, they are not of any value if you are unable to drive the vehicle from one destination to another. Thus, the overall safety of the vehicle and its high performance far exceed the tangible components that make it all that nice to look at and an inspection that much more important.

Final Thoughts

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, we recognize that even the most in-depth inspection can fail to identify a potential problem or flaw in a vehicle. However, we believe that having a vehicle inspection performed is a surefire way of avoiding serious costly problems once the purchase is made. So, while you focus on the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle, let one of our trained automotive specialists focus on the mechanical side and on the vehicle’s performance rating. For more information on inspections or to schedule any automotive service appointment, be sure to look to the pros here at Auto Clinic of Franklin where the comfort and safety of our clients is always at the top of our list!

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Wheel alignment

Certainly, we would all agree that our vehicle is vital to our everyday living. Whether we use our vehicles for work or leisure, there isn’t a day that passes where we do not find ourselves behind the wheel of our car and heading out on the road. Most vehicle owners have a difficult time understanding sudden noises that occur while driving. The team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to take this time to help our clients understand and identify noises specific to a wheel balancing problem or that of a wheel alignment problem. In addition, we want to share with all of you the ideal solutions to both of these automotive issues.

Problem Signs Specific to Wheel Balancing

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our team of highly skilled and certified automotive mechanics and technicians is steadfast in meeting the individual needs of all our valued clients. We take tremendous pride in our superior customer service and customer satisfaction ratings, which have earned us a spot on the marketplace charts as one of the best all round automotive facilities here in Franklin and the surrounding towns.

Often times we notice unsuspecting sounds and noises coming from our vehicles. These sounds can be attributed to a variety of automotive issues. Today we want to focus on problem sounds and signs that are directly linked to wheel balancing and wheel alignment issues. For starters, tires and wheels spend endless hours on the roads and highways each day. During your travels the tires and wheels can become damaged, dented, or end up with slivers of any sort embedded within them. Each of these scenarios can most assuredly throw off the balance of your wheels. If a piece of your tire or its rim become damaged or are missing, the remainder of the tire begins to cause wobbles and vibrations when you are driving. This is because with the existing damaged pieces the undamaged portion of the tire, typically the top portion, becomes heavier. When the top of a tire weighs in at a heavier weight than the bottom, uneven rotation or the uneven weight of a left wheel to a right wheel can occur. This will definitely cause a very noticeable change in the comfort and smoothness of your drive. When this occurs, don’t hesitate but rather make your way on over to our trusted automotive facility here at Auto Clinic of Franklin.

Our team of experts is on hand to provide the perfect solution. The imperfections that result need to be repaired and resolved as soon as possible. You certainly do not want to have to replace your wheel or tire as a result of damage that has occurred. Instead, our skilled automotive mechanics can install weights that can serve to counterbalance those spots within the tire that are heavy. With this thought in mind, if you hear your tires making a loud bumpy type noise or if you feel the drastic change in your steering wheel, then head on over to Auto Clinic of Franklin without delay.

Problem Signs Specific to Wheel Alignments

Good drivers are always aware of their surroundings. With that said, roads and highways are famous for huge potholes, unsuspecting curbs, all types of debris and typical wear and tear. Each of these can definitely throw off your vehicle’s wheel alignment over a period of time. When any one wheel of your vehicle has become impacted by any of these culprits, its position can be altered and the wheel then becomes misaligned. A misaligned wheel is extremely dangerous because it forces your vehicle to stray in one specific direction. It can also damage

other parts of the vehicle and contribute to fuel efficiency issues. Many times, your steering wheel will actually look crooked when you are in need of a wheel alignment. Again, should this problem arise, head on over to our trusted facility.

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our mechanics are equipped with all the precision tools and protocols needed to straighten out the angles of your wheels. Our superior services for the alignment of wheels ensures that your wheels are all parallel to one another while perpendicular to the highway or road surface. When a wheel alignment is performed, your tires are then able to grip the road surface easily and provide you with a smooth riding experience as well as efficient driving time.

Not Aligned or Balanced? Trust Our Pros!

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our team stands ready to serve you. Whether you are in need of a routine oil change, transmission checkup, tire rotation, wheel balancing, wheel alignment or any other automotive repairs or services, we are the team for you. Simply give a shout out to one of our staff and schedule your service appointment today!

 

When to Check Your Vehicle’s Spark Plugs

spark plugs

As many of us know, spark plugs are a very important component of a vehicle’s engine. Their primary function is to ignite the fuel mixture that provides the vehicle’s overall power. Over a period of time, these plugs become dirty, aged and worn out. When this occurs, the engine performance of your vehicle is minimized as is your fuel efficiency. With that said, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to help our clients know when it is time to replace their plugs so as to keep their vehicles performing at high levels. Changing out your plugs will also help you to avoid unnecessary costly auto repairs.

Familiarize Yourself with Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Needs and Schedule

Car manufacturers will typically recommend replacing your plugs anywhere between 30, 000 and 100,000 miles depending upon the make and model of your vehicle. It is very important for vehicle owners to pay attention to any signs or indicators that your spark plugs are in need of replacement. Our team of skilled auto technicians is on hand to help you determine when and if it is time to replace your plugs and provide you with high-quality services and parts to get the job done.

Typical Signs That It Is Time to Replace Your Spark Plugs

At Auto Clinic of Franklin, we take tremendous pride in providing our clients with all the insight they need to understand their vehicles and adhere to their vehicle maintenance needs. We are steadfast in our commitment to meet the individual needs of all our clients and want to be sure that everyone receives service according to their vehicle’s maintenance schedule. With that said, we want to provide you with some of the typical signs that there may be problems with your spark plugs.

 

  • One of the most common signs is that of a shaky, uneven engine idle. If you find that your car is shaking excessively or vibrating, it is more than likely the result of plugs that are not firing correctly.
  • If you are having a difficult time starting your car, this too can be an indicator that your plugs are unable to ignite the vehicle’s fuel mixture as a result of not enough spark.
  • If you notice your car has a loss of power when you are driving and a decrease in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, rest assured you have a problem with your spark plugs. More than likely they are dirty and worn out, which does not allow them to provide enough of a spark to be able to ignite the fuel mixture fully. When this happens, you will experience decreased performance in your vehicle.

Your Trusted Auto Facility

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our highly experienced and skilled team of auto technicians and mechanics stands ready to meet your every need. If you determine that your spark plugs need replacing, then be sure to bring your vehicle down to our trusted facility and let one of our highly qualified auto mechanics perform a simple inspection. If you are in need of replacement plugs, our team has got you covered.

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, we provide the highest quality automotive parts and services this side of the state. We take pride in being recognized as your go to facility for all your automotive needs and that includes spark plug replacements as well as all types of automotive maintenance services and repairs. To schedule an inspection of your plugs or any other service appointment, reach out to one of our skilled technicians today. We look forward to serving you and to ensuring that your vehicle is prepped and ready for all that summer driving ahead.

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Car Care

There is never a day that goes by where each and every one of us drives and needs our cars. We would all agree that a vehicle is a necessary component of life. With that said, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to help our clients understand the importance of proper car care and maintenance and the role it plays in the overall operation and lifespan of your vehicle.

Quality Car Care

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our team of highly skilled and certified automotive techs provides the highest quality automotive services to all our valued clients. From brake repairs, tire rotations, and AC repairs to diagnostic testing, transmission services and battery replacements, our team has got you covered.

Our team is dedicated to using state of the art equipment coupled with the most innovative technologies and software. Having earned ourselves a spot on the marketplace charts as one of the best all round automotive service facilities in the region, our team is steadfast in maintaining that very position by continuing to provide superior yet affordable automotive services. Our high customer satisfaction and customer services ratings are a true testament to our commitment and dedication. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our clients are our number one priority. We strive to deliver products and services that will simply not be matched by any of our competitors.

Routine Maintenance is a Must

Most people fail to understand the significance of performing routine maintenance to their vehicles and providing adequate car care all year round. It is easy to overlook simple maintenance services as a result of hectic schedules and simply not having enough hours in a day to complete that daily list of tasks. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, battery charges and system checks, just to name a few, all contribute to the overall functionality and integrity of your vehicle.

There are a variety of car maintenance services that should be performed routinely in your efforts to keep your car on the road and always running smoothly. Our team of skilled techs is on board to help you with all your vehicle needs. Whether you are in need of new brake pads, a headlight replacement, routine oil change, radiator repairs or transmission services, rest assured we are the team for you. Our team monitors and tracks all services performed on your vehicle and notifies you when you have upcoming car care or maintenance service needs.

Bottom Line

We all need our cars in the course of everyday whether for leisure, travel or work. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, we want to be sure our clients understand the importance of routine

maintenance and car care and stand ready to provide their every automotive needs. If you are in the market for a top-rated automotive facility in the Franklin area, then look no further than the pros here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. To learn more about our high-quality services and our team, or to schedule a service appointment, take time out to contact one of our staff today. We look forward to serving you and to providing you with the highest quality automotive parts and services this side of Franklin.

Proper routine car care and maintenance is definitely a good habit to get into and our team is the perfect solution for all your automotive needs. Spring is here and the hot summer months are right around the corner, so don’t delay in getting your car ready for all those summer travels and those fun-filled family vacations.

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Never Ignore That Mysterious Check Engine Light on Your Dashboard

check engine light

The last thing any driver wants to see is that horrifying check engine light appear on the dashboard of their car. Not only is it scary but every bit mysterious as can be. This very frightful light is designed specifically to alert a driver when there is some type of issue with the proper operation of their vehicle. With that said, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to take this time to share some insight on just what to do when this mysterious, scary light comes on.

What Does It Mean?

The check engine light can mean a number of things from a serious repair that should be performed immediately to something as simple as a loose gas cap. Whatever the source may be, and right out of the gate, the source is unknown, you want to be sure not to guess at what the issue is and put the safety of your vehicle, yourself and any passengers in jeopardy. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, our clients are always our number one priority which is why we want to share this important information with you so you have some awareness as to what your next step should be when that mysterious light suddenly appears.

What To Do

First and foremost, never ever disregard the light when it appears. Many people panic when they see the light go on and their immediate thoughts are about how to figure out what the problem is followed by thoughts of costly vehicle repair bills. If you fail to give attention to the check engine light when it comes on you may find yourself faced with far more serious problems down the road. Further, neglecting this dashboard light can be extremely dangerous and unsafe for both the vehicle and its passengers.

When the light first comes on, we suggest you start by checking out the simple potential sources such as your gas cap. If you have recently pumped gas and the cap is not tightened, this can sometimes trigger the light to go on. Hopefully, this will be the source of your problem and simply tightening the gap will solve the issue at hand.

If after tightening the gas cap the light remains on, then there are a few additional steps you can take. If you happen to own a code and error reader, insert the device into the port and let it identify the error code for you. This would be the ideal and easy way of analyzing and identifying the source of the dashboard light. If, however, you do not own a code reader, then we first want you to understand that a check engine light often times indicates a problem with a specific circuit in your vehicle and not always represents a malfunction of a vehicle component. In order to determine the root source of the dashboard light, we highly recommend you bring your vehicle down to our trusted automotive facility and let our team of experts perform an analysis, assessment and diagnostic testing of your vehicle to determine the cause of the dashboard light.

Our automotive specialists will perform a vehicle inspection and utilize our computer analysis and assessment programs to diagnose your vehicle and identify the problem. We will take every step necessary to identify the exact source of the problem and provide you with the best possible and most affordable fix for the existing problem. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin, we pride ourselves on our competitive yet affordable prices, our high-quality automotive parts and

services as well as our very attractive turnaround times. We understand full well how important it is for our clients to not be without their vehicles and strive to deliver our superior services in timelines that accommodate our customers’ needs. Our team is steadfast in their commitment to meet the individual needs of all our clients and to ensure the overall safety of their vehicles and passengers.

Bottom Line

If your check engine light comes on, then don’t delay. Reach out to the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin to get your problem assessed, identified and fixed and your vehicle back out on the road again. For more information about our high-quality services or to schedule an appointment, give a shout out to one of our friendly automotive techs today!

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The Importance of Proper Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment

Many car owners are unaware of the ongoing automobile maintenance required to keep their vehicles always operating at peak levels season after season. Maintenance services are many with proper wheel alignment being only one. With that said, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to take some time to educate our clients on the very importance of this vehicle maintenance task.

What Is a Wheel Alignment?

It is important that vehicle owners ensure that their vehicle wheels are properly aligned in order to improve both the lifespan of the tires as well as their overall performance. Vehicle wheels often times, especially after hitting potholes and all sorts of bumps in the roads, become misaligned. Keeping this in mind, it is ever so important to maintain the proper alignment of your wheels to ensure optimal performance.

A wheel alignment refers to the angle of your vehicle’s wheels in conjunction with one another and with the structural body of your car. To perform a necessary alignment, the vehicle’s suspension must be adjusted. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin we use only state of the art technology to determine how much of an adjustment is needed and to ensure the adjustment is performed accordingly.

Warning Signs That Your Wheels Are Misaligned

The angle of your vehicle’s wheels will, over time, become skewed and cause a number of changes to your overall driving experience. Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin we want to share some of those warning signs with you.

· When driving straight forward, your steering wheel is actually off center causing the vehicle to drift in one direction or the other.

· You notice uneven tread wear on your tires. Your tires should be able at all times to meet the road surface below precisely. If the treads are unevenly worn on your tires, then the perfect angles needed to ensure the even tire wear are missing. You certainly don’t want to buy tires more often than necessary, so a proper wheel alignment is essential.

· Your vehicle continuously pulls to the left or right. When your wheels are parallel with one another while perpendicular with the surface below your car will handle properly. However, when your wheels are misaligned, your vehicle is unable to perform and handle the way it should and may tend to pull left or right.

· Lack of fuel efficiency. You may find yourself paying a whole lot more at the pump if you have misaligned wheels on your vehicle. So, taking time out to properly align your wheels will certainly help your wallet in the long run.

If you notice any of these warning signs, be sure to give a shout out to one of our highly skilled and experienced team members to discuss your concerns and schedule your wheel alignment at our trusted facility.

Bottom Line

Ensuring proper wheel alignment of your vehicle helps to avoid any unnecessary wear on your vehicle’s steering, suspension, tires or brakes. With proper alignment you will enjoy optimized performance as well as stability and tire life. The team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin is steadfast in their commitment to meet the individual needs of all our valued clients. We take pride in our high-quality automotive services, our competitive yet affordable prices, and our willingness to always go the extra mile. For all your automotive needs in Franklin and the surrounding towns, be sure to look to the pros here at Auto Clinic of Franklin where our clients are always our number one priority. The Christmas season will soon be upon us, so we want to send along wishes from our little family to yours for a very happy and safe holiday season ahead!

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A Simple Car Checkup Schedule to Follow

Car Checkup

We all heavily rely upon our cars each and every day and rely upon the safety of our vehicles as well. The health of your car is very important and should be maintained routinely in order to avoid automotive problems from occurring. Further, routine maintenance of your vehicle contributes to the overall safety of your car and your passengers. With that said, the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to remind our valued clients of the importance of scheduling a routine car checkup.

How Often to Schedule Your Car’s Checkup

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin we take a great deal of pride in providing all our valued clients with the highest quality automotive parts and services this side of Franklin. We are committed to meeting the individual needs of all our clients and to providing the best all round customer service to each and every one of our clients. We want our clients to understand the importance of a routine car checkup and want to share with you a maintenance schedule that is sure to help you keep your car up and running smoothly all year round.

Adhering to this simple schedule will help you to avoid expensive car repairs, headaches and a whole lot of frustration. Our team of highly experienced automotive techs stands ready to meet your every need.

  • Monthly service – We highly recommend that you check your oil levels at least once per month. Be sure, if necessary, to add oil, coolant or antifreeze if the levels are low. It is important to have them topped off and surely our techs are on hand to do just that. We also suggest you check the ground where you regularly park your vehicle to inspect for any leaks or drips. Further, on a monthly basis, check your hoses to ensure that they are not brittle or bulging and need replacement. Also, check your belts looking to see if they are glazed or frayed at all. If so, get on down to our facility so we can replace them for you.You should also check your tires on a monthly basis looking for poor treads, uneven wear or low pressure. If you detect any of these problems, it may be time for new tires. Finally, take a quick peek at your air filter monthly ensuring that you can still see light shining through it. If, however, you cannot, then don’t delay. Replace it.
  • Quarterly service – First and foremost, oil and most oil filters should be changed about every 3000-4000 miles. Windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid and steering fluid should be inspected every quarter as well to avoid low levels. You should also check your battery cables and terminals quarterly and clean them off if you notice any corrosion has occurred. Finally, every three months check all the lights on your vehicle to ensure that they are all working efficiently and properly.
  • Bi-annual service – To avoid severe, long-term damage occurring to your car, it is important to embark on these 6-month service checks. Begin by checking out your shocks for any type of oil leaks or seepage as well as your exhaust system looking out for any loose parts, rust or corrosion. You also want to test your horn, check the health of your windshield wiper blades and check out your spare tire to be sure it is still inflated.

There You Have It

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin our clients and their safety are our number one priority. If you follow this simple schedule that we have provided here for you, your car is sure to stay in tip top shape and on the road all year round. Performing a car checkup, whether it’s monthly, quarterly or bi-annual is a surefire way of preventing any major car problems from occurring. As we know, major car repairs can be quite costly and can leave us without the use of our cars for an extended period of time. With that thought in mind, be sure to schedule your routine service appointments with our dedicated team today. For all your automotive needs, trust the pros here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. You’ll be more than happy you did!

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Understanding Basic Vehicle Maintenance

Vehicle Maintenance

As a vehicle owner, it is critical to understand the importance of preventative vehicle maintenance. Preventative maintenance is the overall key to avoiding costly automotive problems from occurring when they are least expected. Rather than have serious automotive problems come up that require you to pay hefty amounts of money all at once, practicing routine preventative maintenance on your vehicle will instead incur minimal costs 3 or 4 times per year while ensuring that your vehicle is operating at peak levels as needed.

When you engage in regular maintenance services from the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin you reduce your overall risk of incurring costly automotive repairs or vehicle breakdowns, leaving you stranded without a much-needed vehicle. Our team is committed to providing all our valued clients with the highest quality products and services this side of Tennessee. With that said, we want to share with you some important, yet basic preventative vehicle maintenance services that will help you to ensure that your vehicle is on track to get you everywhere you need to be at all the right times.

BASIC YET IMPORTANT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE SERVICES

Proper care and maintenance of your vehicle is a whole lot easier and effective when you put your trust into the team of highly skilled and experienced automotive techs here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. Our team of dedicated professionals is on hand to help with all your automotive needs. From oil changes and tire rotations, to brake installations and engine tune-ups, we have got you covered.

Some of the most common maintenance services that need to be performed routinely on your vehicle include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Oil changes
  • Filter changes, including air filters and fuel filters
  • Replacement of spark plugs
  • Fluid checks and refills as needed
  • Engine tune-up
  • Tire checks and tire replacements
  • Check engine light or other dashboard lights
  • Brake installs and services
  • Wheel alignment
  • Replacement of lights and other automotive parts

Your vehicle is one of the biggest investments you will make in your lifetime. It plays a significant role in your everyday life and surely the majority of us cannot survive without a vehicle. With that said, our team wants to remind our valued clients that in order to protect your investment it is important to schedule routine basic vehicle maintenance with our highly reputable automotive team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. Our team is equipped to handle all your vehicle needs, no matter how big or how small your maintenance or repair issue may be. Our dedicated team makes

automotive care and maintenance easy and quick and has been recognized time and time again in the community and marketplace as one of the best all-around automotive teams here in Franklin.

 

THE RELIABLE TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS HERE AT AUTO CLINIC OF FRANKLIN

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin we understand full well the importance of having a properly maintained and properly running vehicle day to day. Our team of certified auto techs is steadfast in their commitment to provide all our valued clients with top-rated automotive repairs and services at prices that are affordable and in timelines that meet with their personal needs.

For all your vehicle maintenance service needs, be sure to reach out to the professionals here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. Summer is here and you are sure to be doing a whole lot more driving, whether on weekend escapes or even long summer vacations. The team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin wants to ensure the overall safety of you and your family with every bit of driving and roadway travelling you do. Don’t delay. Call and schedule your routine maintenance today!

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