Holiday Time in Raleigh.

The holidays are here, and we’ve had lots of people in North Carolina who want to know some of the things you can do for the holidays in North Carolina.  These events are fun, unique and always kids friendly.  There’s nothing like the holidays in the Tar Heel State.  And there is nothing like Christmas in Raleigh!

For folks around Raleigh you can head to Lights on the Neuse.  If you want a more intimate experience, and you’re in eastern North Carolina, you can take the family on a Christmas themed hayride in Clayton.  It’s $10 for adults and $7 for kids, and it’s open on weekends except for the entire week of Christmas – you can go any day.

That is just one of the many attractions that our beautiful city of Raleigh North Carolina has to offer.  Here at Jim’s Auto Service located at 3711 Tarheel Dr. we want you to experience as much of our fair city during the holidays as you can.  From all of us at Jim’s Auto Service to all of you…Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

Do Foreign Cars Cost More to Maintain?

A common question that often comes up when considering the cost of ownership is whether it’s more expensive to repair domestic cars than imported ones.  When you look for your next vehicle selection, factors like maintenance schedules, overall reliability and drivability, as well as typical repair costs, will all factor into your final decision.

Recent conventional wisdom held that imported cars tended to last longer on the road and were less expensive to keep running than domestic ones.  Particularly, Toyota and Honda were thought to provide a slew of well-constructed imported cars that were also inexpensive to repair and maintain at import car service centers.

Here is a conundrum that you do not have to face when you choose Jim’s Auto Service to maintain and repair your foreign or domestic car.  The choice is always simple when you choose Jim’s.  Trust Jim’s Auto Service located at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh for all of your auto service needs.  Just call for an appointment at (919) 824-4566.

Dec 19th - Holiday House Concert

Dec 19th - Holiday House Concert

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Come enjoy an evening of baroque Noels, cantata arias by Bach and Telemann written for Advent and the New Year, and selections from Handel's Messiah, all sung by the fabulous soprano, Kathryn Mueller!

Food and wine will round out the festive evening. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time - no tickets will be sold at the door. 

100,000 Miles…It’s Just Warming Up!

These days, people are keeping their cars longer than ever before. In fact, according to the latest statistics from R.L. Polk Co compiled earlier this year, the average car on the road is now almost 11 years old!  When the economy took a nose dive in late 2008 this trend began and has been growing ever since with improved manufacturing techniques.

Here is a general guide of what should be routinely checked after 100,000 miles -

1.  Fluids…the lifeblood of the human body as well as your vehicle

2.  The timing belt and water pump

3.  Tires and brakes…don’t wait until this mark to pay attention to these two things

4.  Miscellaneous things such as the fuel filter, air filter, etc.

Having a great mechanic who has made it a specialty to work on older cars is a must these days.  That is why you can always trust Jim Liacos and his professional team at Jim’s Auto Service.  If you live in the Raleigh NC area always trust Jim with your old, reliable vehicle.  Jim’s Auto Service is located at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh.  Call ahead at (919) 824-4566.

Save the Environment…Save some $$$.

Everyone knows that hybrid and electric vehicles are growing in popularity as the price of gas continues to remain high.  Not only do buyers want to save money by having to fill up their tanks less often, but they also want to do their part to protect precious natural resources and reduce the greenhouse emissions that are harming our planet’s ozone layer.

Here are some of the special considerations for maintaining hybrids –

1.  Keep an eye on the battery as its shelf-life will eventually come to an end.

2.  The electric system on a hybrid or electric vehicle is advanced and complicated.

3.  Brakes should not need to be replaced as frequently.

4.  Be very careful if you try troubleshooting problems…you could get electrocuted!

That last one sounds dire.  It should and it should also prompt you to rely on a hybrid auto repair specialist such as Jim’s Auto Service of Raleigh.  They may have been around gas-powered cars for decades, but they know exactly how to keep your hybrid vehicle humming along as well.  Jim’s Auto Service is located at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh.  Just call (919) 824-4566.

Veterans Day 2019: List of free offers & discounts

Veterans Day 2019: List of free offers & discounts

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To thank veterans and current military members for their service, many area businesses are offering free meals and food discounts, grocery store discounts, free haircuts, free car wash and more on Veteran's Day, November 11 and throughout the week!

You Got a Pick-Em’ Up?

Whether you use your pick-up primarily for work or play–or for both—Jim’s Auto Service is always here in Raleigh to make sure you can push your truck to the max and beyond!  We are especially passionate about pick-up truck repair. We regularly perform a wide range of repair services on personal vehicles of all makes and models.

Our skilled team of certified mechanics knows pickups inside and out.  Some of us here have been repairing them all our lives.  You’ll always get an honest and upfront answer about the problem.  Whether it be diesel to gasoline, we can handle any repair on most any vehicle including Dodge, Chevy, GMC, Toyota, Nissan, Ford, and more.

The name on the building may say Jim’s AUTO Service, but the truth is we are passionate about keeping your pick-up truck on the road humming along as well.  Are you driving around the Raleigh area in a car, SUV, or a light-duty truck?  When you need maintenance or even major repairs make an appointment at 3711 Tarheel Drive by calling (919) 824-4566.

Halloween Events in the Triangle: parties, costume parades, ghost tours, more

Halloween Events in the Triangle: parties, costume parades, ghost tours, more

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"Looking ahead to pumpkin-carving time, here are some of the top Halloween events in the Triangle. You’ll find parties, festivals, trick-or-treating, costume contests, and more."

 

Rotors Gone Bad.

What are the rotors on your wheels, anyway?  The rotors are part of the disc brakes that allow your vehicle to stop when the vehicle is in motion.  If the rotors happen to be warped, your vehicle may not be able to stop properly in an emergency situation.  This can be dangerous if you need to stop to avoid an accident.

Here are some things to look for –

1.  They should be examined on a regular basis because they do wear down.

2.  Stopping time increases.

3.  A warped rotor can cause brakes to temporarily fail.

4.  You feel vibrations in your brake pedals when driving.

5.  Listen for a thumping or high-pitched hum.

Replacing and maintaining rotors is not just responsible but may affect the safety of your entire family!  If you have experienced any of the above signs, make an appointment at the break repair experts of Raleigh.  That’s Jim’s Auto Service located at 3711 Tarheel Drive.  Just call for an appointment before it becomes an emergency at (919) 824-4566.

Pumpkin Palooza Fall Festival, Oct 13th

Pumpkin Palooza Fall Festival

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Family Fun ~ Chili Cook-off, live music, kids games, Oktoberfest food & Trophy Beer, Nc State Mascots, raffles, sports trivia and pumpkins!

 

$1209 vs. $903.

That’s a nice savings isn’t it?  Did you know that car owners who went to dealers for repairs spent an average of $1,209 a year versus $903 for those who used independents?  You can do the math…that is a savings of $300 a year, or if you wish, $3000 over the 10-year life of your vehicle if you decide to keep it that long!

These repairs included common jobs like brake work, transmission repairs and window replacements.  Don’t make the assumption that the mechanic won’t have the knowledge that the dealer has, it’s possible the independent repair shop hasn’t invested in the necessary equipment, but that is not necessarily true.

It is most assuredly NOT true when you choose Jim’s Auto Service for your vehicle’s repair and maintenance work in the Raleigh area!  Jim has assembled the most up-to-date equipment and the best auto repair technicians in Raleigh.  See for yourself…stop by his shop at 3711 Tarheel Drive or call ahead at (919) 824-4566.

We Take Care of the People.

The People’s Car…that is what the Volkswagen is known as in English.  It has been a world-favorite for decades and a favorite of Raleigh area residents as well.  While they may have been criticized for their emissions scandal at one time, Volkswagen’s reliability has never really been thrown into question.

It’s a bit of a mixed bag so to speak, when it comes to Volkswagens.  In a survey by Warranty Direct it was found that Volkswagens were ninth in terms of unreliability, with 1 in 52 engines resulting in failure. However, they fare better than their German counterparts Audi and BMW by a considerable margin.

When it is time to have your Volkswagen serviced or maintained on its regular schedule think of Jim’s Auto Service.  For decades, they have been repairing cars of every make and model (especially VW’s) from their location at 3711 Tarheel Drive in Raleigh.  For a service appointment just call (919) 824-4566.

Finish Summer Strong With Raleigh Labor Day Weekend Events

Finish Summer Strong With Raleigh Labor Day Weekend Events

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"Squeeze in the last bit of fun out of your summer with these hot Raleigh Labor Day Weekend events. So sit, back, relax, and scroll, baby, scroll!"

 

What is a Hybrid?

Hey, if you listen to the makers, hybrid cars are the best invention since sliced bread!  There may be many reasons to consider a hybrid car, including a new tax incentive for US owners.  It helps to have a good understanding of how they work.  Then you can make an informed decision before you jump into the “hybrid” world.

First of all, what is a hybrid car exactly?  Basically, it’s a normal, fuel efficient car that has two motors…an electric motor and a gasoline powered motor.  It also has a special system to capture braking energy to store in an onboard battery.  Specifically, electric motors use no energy during idle.  Gas motors do better at high speeds and can deliver more power. 

Do some careful research before you buy.  If you decide to buy a hybrid you will not need to research where to have it maintained in the Raleigh area.  The easy answer is Jim’s Auto Service.  They take tender loving care of hybrids whatever they may be at their location 3711 Tarheel Dr.  Give Jim a call to maintain your hybrid vehicle at (919) 824-4566.

Back to School Carnival! August 17th

Back to School Carnival! August 17th

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We've got NathanRyan BACK in Raleigh for a Back to School Carnival unlike any other!

 

Who is Responsible for the Work?

When you trust your precious vehicle to an auto mechanic it’s nice to know that you can trust them implicitly.  Such a man in the Raleigh area is Jim Liacos.  What about Jim?  At an early age he learned auto repair and how valuable scheduled preventive maintenance is to vehicle longevity.  His father’s fleet of cabs often reached 350,000 miles with no major engine trouble!

At one time, Jim worked as a scientist at the National Animal Disease Center in Ames Iowa.  He was awarded four Research Excellence Awards.  It seems like a far cry from the auto repair industry, but not really as it shows his attention to detail.  Then came Jim’s Auto Service…  pursuing excellence in automotive repair and customer service.

Today, Jim proudly employs some of the best auto mechanics in the Raleigh area at 3711 Tarheel Drive.  He has hired carefully throughout the years to ensure that the pursuit of excellence continues to this day in the repair of virtually any make or model of vehicle.  Call Jim’s Auto Service for an appointment at (919) 824-4566.

Summer Daze Music Festival Vol. 2, Aug 17th

Summer Daze Music Festival Vol. 2, Aug 17th

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"Summer Daze Festival is back for Vol. 2 on August 17 with local vendors, food trucks, and tunes by DJ Nevy, The EFunk Experience, Cisco Adler, and 90’s cover band, Here's to the Night."

 

Turning 90,000.

One thing that will hopefully do this (if you want it to) is your car.  What should happen when your car turns 90 (90,000) that is?  For most cars made by major manufacturers, the 90,000-mile service is the third major service of your vehicle’s life.  These regularly scheduled services help maintain your ride and protect your investment for the long-term.

Here are some of the things included in this important service –

1.  Obviously, an oil change

2.  Replace the timing belt if needed

3.  Do the same with the hoses

4.  Clean the fuel system

5.  Check the brake pads and the battery

6.  Rotate and/or replace the tires

There are more steps that we will take which are too numerous to mention in this short space.  The point is, if you live in the Raleigh North Carolina area you can count on Jim’s Auto Service for ALL of your routine maintenance throughout the life of your vehicle.  Stop in at Jim’s Auto Service located at 3711 Tarheel Drive or call for an appointment at (919) 824-4566.

Hit the Road Jack and Jill.

Isn’t this a great time of year?  Drivers throughout Raleigh and North Carolina are headed in every direction this summer on the vacation of a lifetime.  Many of those vacations will be taken in the family car.  Maybe you are headed to New York, perhaps it’s Florida, or maybe you are going west…young man and woman.

Here are a few travel tips before you leave –

1.  Have all of your vehicle’s fluids checked.

2.  Are all of the lights fully functional?

3.  What about your windshield wipers?

4.  When was the last time the brake pads were checked?

5.  And the obvious…the tread on your tires.

Peace of mind as you travel is what it is all about!  At Jim’s Auto Service we give you that before you leave the friendly confines of the Raleigh area.  We’ll check all of the boxes before you head out on summer vacation.  Make sure that whatever vehicle you drive you have us take care of the basic maintenance by stopping in at 3711 Tarheel Drive or calling (919) 824-4566.

Foreign vs. Domestic.

Don’t worry, this is not going to get political.  This pertains to foreign vs. domestic cars being driven around the Raleigh area.  In the past it used to be that foreign cars were known for their quality, while domestic cars were made to be more affordable.  Now, the gaps between quality have greatly closed.  Domestic cars are being made with higher quality and longevity.

In the old days, foreign vehicles were widely recognized for their high-quality aesthetics.  Now it really depends on personal preference.  American cars, however, still maintain the favored muscle car.  Cars are being sold at around the same price, whether foreign or domestic.  So…you make the call!

Whatever you drive we’ll take care of it for its entire life.  Foreign or domestic we don’t care.  We are your ultimate shade tree mechanic in the Raleigh area.  Whenever you need emergency repairs or routine maintenance on your foreign or domestic vehicle come into Jim’s Auto Service at 3711 Tarheel Dr. or call (919) 824-4566.  

Do Cars Still Have Carburetors?

As you would expect, fuel injection systems have changed significantly in the 100 years since cars started becoming a fixture on world-wide roads, and carburetors were one of the first fuel systems to be used, lasting well into the twentieth century.  Production vehicles today use computerized fuel injection to feed fuel and air into the combustion chamber of the engine.

Computer controls allow the engine to operate at peak efficiency in every situation.  That allows the vehicle to start right up time after time.  You may be familiar with motorcycles, which are one of the last holdouts of the factory production carburetors.  In order to get a bike started on a cold day, you have to pull out the choke.  After that, you have to let the engine warm up.

Jim and his crew at Jim’s Auto Service understand the modern computerized fuel injection system as well as the good old carburetor.  Jim has been repairing cars since they were hand-cranked (not really…it just seems like it!).  For any service on your vehicle, whatever it may be, call Jim’s Auto Service at (919) 824-4566 for an appointment at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh.  

It is Anything BUT Routine.

Routine maintenance…we are told how important it is.  Intellectually, we know that our vehicles will stay on the road longer if we pay attention to these two important words.  There are times, however when unexpected car issues will arise, and every vehicle will display certain warning signs.  Our mission is to reduce the potential for breakdown, and expensive repairs.

Here are some common car problems that arise –

1.  Number one these days is the check engine light.

2.  Your car’s engine is sputtering.

3.  The MPG is down noticeably.

4.  The brakes are squealing or grinding.

5.  Your steering wheel is shaking.

6.  You notice that the transmission has started slipping.

This, and other issues are the ones we troubleshoot here at Jim’s Auto Service.  Jim started our company decades ago on the premise that we will repair any and all automobiles, SUVs, and vans be they foreign or domestic on the roads of Raleigh NC.  Jim’s Auto Service is located at 3711 Tarheel Dr.  Call ahead and we’ll get you in right away at (919) 824-4566.   

Stay Safe by Stopping on a Dime.

Your vehicle’s brakes are what keeps you from an unmitigated disaster on the highways and bi-ways of the Raleigh area.  Look, listen, and learn.  When are your brakes going bad?  You need to know what to look for and what to listen to in determining if it is time to visit your favorite auto mechanic to have your car’s brakes replaced.

First, check for wear by looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheel's spokes.  Generally, there should be at least 1/4 inch of pad.  If you see less than 1/4 inch of pad, you may want to have your brake pads inspected or replaced.  Secondly, if you hear a high-pitched screeching sound when you apply your brakes there may be danger ahead.

Your family’s safety is at stake here!  If you live anywhere in the Raleigh area call Jim’s Auto Service immediately to make an appointment at their location on 3711 Tarheel Drive.  Jim and his crew have worked on just about every make and model on the road and will have you back there safely in no time.  Just call (919) 824-4566.

Keep it Cool.

It won’t be long now when moderate spring temps give way to the heat and humidity of the Raleigh area.  The most common causes of broken air conditioning in your vehicle are leaks or compressor issues. If your air is blowing cool but not cold, the problem could be a clogged filter, cooling fan problem or radiator trouble.

Here are some ways to diagnose the problem –

1.  Look for obstructions such as leaves, bugs, etc. that clog the compressor.

2.  A voltmeter checks the voltage to your car’s compressor.

3.  Leaks…easily the most common problem.

It all adds up to one solution.  Have your vehicle’s air conditioner checked and repaired by Jim’s Auto Service.  They are the Raleigh area’s car a/c experts.  Whether it just needs to be repaired or replaced Jim’s is the place to have it done.  They are located at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh.  Just call for an appointment before summer takes its toll at (919) 824-4566.