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Top Qualities To Look For In Your Auto Repair Shop
July 26, 2018
As published on SuwaneeMagazine.com: "Figuring out who you can trust to fix and maintain your car is hard enough, but figuring out who is going to make honest recommendations can be even more difficult! Unfortunately, that is not an unfounded fear since so many people in the auto industry are not up front and honest. Because of this, our friends at Team Ryan Automotive have put together some valuable tips for our readers. We hope you find these helpful!"
- Reviews. The best indication of future experience is based on past performance. Check out what people are saying on Google, Facebook or other reviews and social media sites. A personal referral may hold even more weight to convince you to try a new place out, but online reviews are the modern-day referral network. At minimum, you should look for a place with at least 50 google reviews and a 4.3 star rating or better. If an auto repair shop is piling up negative reviews and has less than a 4.3, you can save your time and continue your search elsewhere.
- Authorizing Work. Don’t authorize work until you are completely comfortable with their explanation! A professional repair facility should be able to clearly and comfortably explain the scope of work needed to diagnose and repair your vehicle. If needed, they should have no problem providing pictures of the part of the car that they are discussing with you. If pictures are not an option, they should show you on the vehicle. Don’t let them get away with being obscure. A good and honest shop will be ready, willing and able to show you what is going on with your vehicle.
- Price. Make sure you understand the price upfront. It is the shop’s responsibility to explain the price for what you are purchasing. Unfortunately, many shops are not as up front and clear with customers as they should be. Be your own advocate and make sure you understand exactly what is being done for what amount
- Warranty. Does the shop have a warranty? Does it cover both parts and labor? Some places will have a very short warranty or have loop holes in their warranty offering. Did you know most dealerships only have a 12 month / 12,000 mile warranty on their repairs? Team Ryan Automotive offers a Lifetime Warranty.
- Qualifications. How can you tell if the technicians at an auto repair shop really know what they are doing? Ask if the mechanic working on your vehicle is
ASE certified . Even more specifically, ask what certifications they have because you want to make sure that they are certified in the actual repair that your car needs. For example, if your vehicle needs a check engine light diagnostic, you want to make sure your technician is certified in that specific area. You wouldn’t want a podiatrist operating on your heart would you? ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence, and it is the benchmark for technician certification. The only way a shop can be recognized with this designation is by having a very high percentage of certified employees. Don’t be satisfied with unqualified mechanics “fixing” your car. Find out more about ASE and use the
shop locator here .
- Dealerships: There is a misconception that new car dealerships have unrivaled service technicians, the newest equipment and the best service. A lot of times this simply is not the case. It is common for dealerships to have a large number of entry-level mechanics with a very small number of certified and experienced technicians. It is very difficult to know with certainty what level of technician is servicing your vehicle, and the odds are not in your favor! We have all been in a situation where we felt like nothing more than a number, and that is no way to feel when you are getting your vehicle serviced.
- Scheduling. Effective scheduling can at times seem like a lost art. This is a good indication of the overall professionalism of a shop. Before the process even begins, they should be able to give you a clear idea of when a technician will be starting on your vehicle and at least an estimate on how long the repairs will take. Of course, the larger the repair or service, the more variables there are in the process, but this is OK! The key here is clear communication of what is known right now, and an expectation set by the shop of when further information will be available.
- Shuttle or Loaner Car. What happens if you don’t have a spare car? Will the auto repair shop give you a ride home or to work? Or even better, do they have a loaner car that you can use while your car is in the shop?
- Treatment. It is the shop’s job to make the process for having maintenance and repair done on your car as easy for you as possible. If you feel like they are making things challenging, then feel good about yourself by taking your business elsewhere.
- Presentation. You can tell a lot about a place by how it looks. Is the shop clean and well maintained? What does the office look like? Automotive repair is very detailed work, the facility as a whole needs to be neat, clean and organized. This is a good indication that the employees take pride in their work, and with that you can be confident that you will receive quality service.
Have questions about your car or truck? Team Ryan Automotive is ready to answer them.
You can find this article published on Suwanee Magazine .
Winter Battery Woes: How to Protect Your Car Battery in Cold Weather Preventative maintenance is an essential aspect of responsible car ownership, ensuring that your vehicle remains safe, reliable, and efficient for years to come. At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand that your car is more than just a means of transportation – it's an investment that deserves the best care possible. In this post, we'll dive into the concept of preventative maintenance, its benefits, and how our team can help you stay on top of your car's health. Understanding Preventative Maintenance Preventative maintenance involves routine services and inspections designed to prevent potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Instead of waiting for a component to fail, you take proactive steps to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Some common examples of preventative maintenance include: Regular oil changes Tire rotations and alignments Brake inspections Fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid) Filter replacements (air, cabin air, fuel – if equipped) Battery testing Timing belt replacement – if equipped By addressing these items on a regular basis, you can ensure that your car operates at its best. The Benefits of Preventative Maintenance Investing in preventative maintenance offers a wide range of benefits for both you and your vehicle: Avoiding Costly Repairs: Regular maintenance helps identify and address small issues before they turn into expensive problems. Enhancing Safety: A well-maintained car is a safer car, with properly functioning brakes, tires, and other critical components. Improving Performance: Routine services keep your engine running efficiently, optimize fuel economy, and ensure all systems are working harmoniously. Extending Vehicle Lifespan: By preventing excessive wear and tear, regular maintenance can help your car last longer and retain its value. Saving Time and Reducing Stress: Keeping up with maintenance minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns and the inconvenience they cause. Tips for Staying on Top of Preventative Maintenance Consistent preventative maintenance is key to enjoying the benefits mentioned above. Here are some tips to help you stay on track: Consult Your Owner's Manual: Your car's manual provides a recommended maintenance schedule specific to your make and model. Note this may not have all the items recommended at today’s standards, especially with metro Atlanta deemed severe operating conditions by most vehicle manufacturers. Be Alert to Warning Signs: Pay attention to dashboard lights, unusual noises, or changes in performance, as these may indicate a need for service. Keep a Service Record: Maintaining a detailed log of all services performed can help you stay organized and may increase your car's resale value. Partner with a Trusted Repair Shop: At Team Ryan Automotive, we keep track of your vehicle's maintenance history and provide timely reminders for upcoming services. The Team Ryan Automotive Advantage When it comes to preventative maintenance , choosing the right repair shop is crucial. At Team Ryan Automotive, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch service and expertise: Our skilled technicians are trained to identify potential issues and provide effective solutions. We offer transparent advice and clear explanations, empowering you to make informed decisions about your car's care. Our maintenance plans are tailored to your vehicle's unique needs, ensuring optimum performance and longevity. Preventative maintenance is a smart investment in your car's future, offering a host of benefits that save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By partnering with Team Ryan Automotive for your maintenance needs, you can drive with confidence, knowing that your vehicle is receiving the best possible care. Don't wait until a problem arises – schedule your next maintenance appointment with us today and experience the difference that proactive care can make.
Winter Battery Woes: How to Protect Your Car Battery in Cold Weather Winter can be a challenging time for your car's battery, with cold temperatures and increased power demands putting extra strain on its performance. At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand the frustration of dealing with a dead battery in freezing weather. In this post, we'll explore how winter impacts your car battery and share expert tips to help you keep your battery in top shape throughout the cold season. The Impact of Winter Weather on Your Car Battery Cold temperatures can take a toll on your car battery's performance in several ways: Reduced Battery Capacity: Low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside your battery, reducing its capacity by up to 50% at 0°F. Increased Power Demands: Cold weather thickens engine oil, making it harder to crank the engine. Combine this with the increased use of heaters, defrosters, and other accessories, and your battery has to work harder to keep up. Slower Recharge: Your car's alternator may take longer to recharge the battery in cold weather, leaving it undercharged if you frequently take short trips. Signs Your Battery Is Struggling in Winter Keep an eye out for these warning signs that your battery may be having trouble in the cold: Slow engine crank or difficulty starting your car Dimmer headlights or interior lights, especially when the engine is off Needing frequent jump-starts to get your car running If you notice any of these signs, it's time to have your battery checked by a professional. Tips to Protect Your Battery in Cold Weather Proactive maintenance is key to extending your battery's life and preventing winter woes. Try these tips to keep your battery in top condition: Park in a garage or covered area to protect your car from extreme cold. Limit short trips and combine errands to give your battery enough time to recharge. Regularly inspect your battery for corrosion on the terminals and ensure all connections are tight. Invest in a battery blanket or warmer, especially if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. Have your battery tested before winter hits to ensure it's ready to handle the cold. Keep a set of jumper cables in your car for emergencies. When to Replace Your Car Battery Even with proper maintenance, car batteries typically last only 3 to 5 years, and winter weather can shorten their lifespan. If your battery is nearing the end of its life or has shown signs of weakness, it's best to replace it before the cold season fully sets in. Team Ryan Automotive can help you determine if it's time for a new battery and provide you with a high-quality replacement. Don't let winter battery troubles leave you out in the cold. By understanding how cold weather affects your car battery and taking proactive steps to protect it, you can ensure reliable performance all season long. Trust Team Ryan Automotive to be your partner in battery maintenance and all your winter driving needs. Schedule your battery check today and enjoy peace of mind on the road, no matter the weather.
Is Your Car Battery Dying? Top Signs and Prevention Tips from Team Ryan Automotive A dead car battery can leave you stranded and stressed, but knowing the warning signs can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we're committed to keeping you informed and your vehicle running smoothly. In this post, we'll discuss the top signs that your car battery may be failing and provide expert tips on how to prevent battery-related issues. Top Signs Your Car Battery Is Failing 1. Slow Engine Crank If your engine takes longer than usual to start, it could be a sign that your battery is struggling to provide enough power. Pay attention to any unusual delays in starting your vehicle, as this is often one of the first noticeable signs of a weak battery. 2. Illuminated Dashboard Warning Light Most modern vehicles have a battery or charging system warning light on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it indicates a potential issue with your battery or charging system. Don't ignore this warning – bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive for a thorough testing and diagnosis. 3. Dim or Flickering Lights Your car battery powers various electrical components, including your headlights and interior lights. If you notice your lights dimming or flickering, especially when the car is idling, it could signify that your battery is losing its charge. 4. Corroded Battery Terminals Inspect your battery for signs of corrosion, which appears as a white or blue powdery substance on the terminals. Corrosion can prevent your battery from charging or functioning properly, leading to decreased performance and potential failure. 5. Swollen Battery Case Extreme temperatures can cause your battery to swell or become misshapen. If you notice your battery case bulging, it's a clear indication that it needs to be replaced. 6. Age of Your Battery On average, car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. If your battery is approaching the end of its lifespan, it's wise to replace it before problems arise. 7. Preventing Battery-Related Breakdowns Being proactive is key to avoiding battery issues. Here are some tips to keep your battery in top shape: Schedule regular battery inspections during routine maintenance at Team Ryan Automotive Avoid leaving electronics, such as headlights or the radio, on when the engine is off Park your car in a garage or shaded area to protect your battery from extreme temperatures Keep your battery terminals clean by removing corrosion with a baking soda and water mixture. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the surrounding area with plenty of water. Trust Team Ryan Automotive for Your Battery Needs At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand the importance of a reliable car battery. Our expert technicians are here to help you with all your battery-related needs, from testing and cleaning to replacement. Some of the benefits of choosing Team Ryan Automotive for your battery service include: Comprehensive battery testing and diagnostics High-quality battery replacements with industry-leading warranties Expert advice on maintaining your battery's health and longevity Convenient scheduling and prompt service Don't let a dying car battery catch you off guard. By familiarizing yourself with the warning signs and taking proactive steps to maintain your battery's health, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Trust Team Ryan Automotive to be your partner in battery maintenance and all your vehicle's needs. Schedule your battery inspection today and enjoy peace of mind on the road.
