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.

Minivan Reliability.

Have you ever thought about how the minivan ranks in terms of reliability and repair costs?  According to one prominent rating service it ranks 4 out of 5 on the reliability scale.  Or, put into other terms 9th out of 19th for all vehicle types.  What is a good estimate of the average annual cost of service?  According to Repair Pal it is just over $500 per year.

Here is something you may want to know.  What are the most reliable minivans?

1.  Kia Sedona…checks in with an estimated annual repair cost of around $450

2.  Nissan Quest

3.  Chrysler Town and Country

4.  Honda Odyssey

5.  The Ford Flex and Volkswagen Routan on the high side at over $700 per year.

As it pertains to that final model, the Volkswagen Routan we are proud to feature a VW mechanic at Jim’s Auto Service in Raleigh NC.  If you have a minivan and are in need of repair or general maintenance give us a call at (919) 824-4566 or come by our repair shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive in Raleigh.

What is a Shade Tree Mechanic?

For decades every neighborhood had its local shade tree mechanic. That man (or woman) did their own oil changes, replaced their own brakes and generally did most of their own repairs on various vehicles. These handy types would even help out a neighbor or a friend for maybe a few dollars if the job was a long drawn out one that needed special tools or expertise.

Fast forward to the heart of the 21st century.  The world has certainly changed.  Today, there are check engine lights, electronic systems, factory service centers, etc.  To compete and evolve, the shade tree mechanic had to adapt.  In some cases, they just went off quietly into a different profession and did not want to be a part of the factory “team”.

In the case of Jim Liacos - the ultimate shade tree mechanic, he opened his own shop called Jim’s Auto Service.  From his shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive, he built a thriving auto repair business that specializes in great customer service on all makes and models of vehicles.  Call for your next maintenance procedure at (919) 824-4566.

What You Should Know About Oil Changes.

It is the single most important way to protect and extend the life of your vehicle.  Commonly we are taught to change the oil in our car every 3000 miles.  That is a good benchmark, of course.  Some makes and models do not require oil changes as often.  There are some that need a very specific type of oil.

Here are some things you should know –

1.  When in doubt, follow your owner’s manual

2.  It is recommended to check the oil level once a month…We’ll bet you miss that one!

3.  Choose the right oil for your car

The simplest steps start with your due diligence.  The actual oil change should be trusted to Jim’s Auto Service.  Jim Liacos and his crew have changed the oil in Raleigh area cars for decades.  They know when your car needs it AND will check on many other things that could derail your ride down the road.  Stop in at 3711 Tarheel Dr. in Raleigh or call (919) 824-4566.

Do Volkswagens Cost More to Repair?

If you have ever owned one you are aware that VW's have always cost more to service. As far as oil goes just check what kind of oil they use and price it out wherever you get your oil changes done.  What about general maintenance?  In terms of repairs they tend to cost more. It largely depends on the model and which parts need to be replaced.

Electrical problems can be inherent in Volkswagens.  Diagnostics can be expensive and do not always produce results.  In general though, VW owners are happy and satisfied to be part of the family.  Know this, when Volkswagen owners are surveyed throughout the world, they give this unique ride very high marks.

The bottom line is this…when your VW needs to be repaired you can always trust Jim’s Auto Service.  They are your headquarters in the Raleigh NC area for Volkswagen service and maintenance.  Jim’s is a full-service repair garage located at 3711 Tarheel Drive in Raleigh.  Give them a call for all makes and models at (919) 824-4566.