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.

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.   

The Best Hybrid Cars on the Market.

Are you considering owning a hybrid?  It seems to be the wave of the future.  Hybrids may help keep this planet going throughout this century and into the next.  Hybrids are rigorously tested for braking and handling on a test track, and then driven on a real-world test loop that mixes city streets, twisting back roads and highway miles.

A company called Edmonds does these tests and provides ratings.  For instance, the Honda Accord is one of the highest rated at 8.3 out of 10.  The Toyota Camry gets a 7.6 and has the best fuel economy of any sedan according to Edmonds.  Here is one more…the Ford Fusion checking in with a 7.9 out of 10.  2018 was the last model year for this sedan.

It matters not which hybrid you intend to drive.  They can all be maintained and repaired by the ultimate “shade tree mechanic”.  That is Jim Liacos and his amazing crew at Jim’s Auto Service located at 3711 Tarheel Drive in Raleigh.  They fix ‘em and maintain ‘em…all makes and models.  Just give Jim’s Auto Service a call at (919) 824-4566.

Special Orders Don’t Upset Us.

You have heard these words before when promoting a fast-food restaurant chain.  So, how does it apply to your vehicle’s mechanical repair?  What we are referring to is the ability to do the same great job on ALL vehicles.  Be they foreign or domestic, we fix them all.  The new era of electrical systems does NOT challenge us.

When you learned your profession as a “shade tree mechanic” you can make that claim.  That means we did not study at the hands of specific auto manufacturers as many people do.  The truth is, I have had the greatest teacher of them all…experience.  You learn by doing, and in the last 40 plus years I have just about repaired ‘em all!

I am Jim Liacos, the head of Jim’s Auto Service here in Raleigh NC.  You may read about my history and background by visiting www.jimsautoservices.com.  I hope you feel that no matter what type of vehicle you drive you will trust me and my staff to fix it right the first time at our shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive.  Stop in or make an appointment by calling (919) 824-4566.

Bring ‘em all in.

We will handle them all…domestic, foreign, hybrid, SUV, trucks, etc.  My staff and I are what are known as “shade tree mechanics”.  What that means is we did not go to school to learn how to fix a specific model of vehicle.  We learned under the “mighty oak”.  From Edsels to today’s hybrids we fix them all.

What you need to know as 2018 dawns is that the changing weather in the Raleigh area means that your vehicle needs to stay in tip-top condition.  As we catch basketball fever around here we want to be able to get to Tarheel games safe and sound.  Don’t worry, we will be here to make sure that you do!

We are Jim’s Auto Service.  I am Jim Liacos and for the last 40+ years I have learned to fix every make and model of vehicle with four wheels (and some with two when I was a kid).  When you need vehicle repair and maintenance in the Raleigh area please make an appointment at our 3711 Tarheel Drive location by calling (919) 824-4566.

Another New Model Year.

When you are in the auto repair business you look at the new year as a new model year.  There are many new cars on the roads of Raleigh that were not there at this time last year.  I have seen them come and go…from Edsel to Prius.  Some makes and models survive and thrive and some go the way of the dinosaur!

Whatever the case may be, I have made it my life’s work to maintain and repair them all.  Some people may call me the “ultimate shade tree mechanic”.  My name is Jim Liacos.  I did not go to school specifically to repair a certain type of vehicle.  I graduated from the mechanical school of hard knocks and hope to be your auto mechanic in 2018.

As we gather together with family and friends this time of year we at Jim’s Auto Service wish you a safe and happy Holiday season and a prosperous New Year.  If you have just bought a new car or are trying to get by with your current ride for another year we will be here for you.  Merry Christmas from Jim’s Auto Service of Raleigh.

You are NOT too Busy to Keep your Car on the Road.

During the busy holiday season you may not be thinking about keeping your vehicle properly serviced.  The truth is, you need your car more than ever this time of year.  It had better start and keep running all the way to grandma’s house!  Not only is a break-down inconvenient, but in ever-changing weather it could be downright dangerous.

When was the last time you had your battery checked?  When was the last time you had your vehicle’s oil changed?  When was the last time your tires were checked?  I know…nag, nag, nag, but it is for your own good and the safety of your family.  Before it gets away from you why not have a check-up on your car?

The ultimate shade-tree mechanic in the Raleigh area is Jim Liacos.  Jim does it all on just about every make and model out there.  Jim is the owner of Jim’s Auto Service.  He and his team are Raleigh North Carolina’s complete vehicle care and maintenance specialists.  Call for an appointment today at his 3711 Tarheel Drive location (919) 824-4566.

Volkswagen…a World-Wide Classic.

You would be hard-pressed to find an adult who has never heard of this classic car manufacturer.  From the Bus to the Beetle, Volkswagen has been a part of our culture for well over a half-century.  Do you own one or want to?  If that is the case, then you should be aware of some mechanical challenges that you may face.

1.  The check engine light that has become a recent problem particularly in 2013 Jettas.

2.  Oil sludge…this has reared its head in 2000 model Passats.

3.  Wiring harness shorts…particularly in the 2006 Jetta.

4.  Coil failure is a particular problem of the 2004 Passat.

Volkswagens are engineered to last for many, many years if you treat them with TLC.  In our area VW’s are treated like children by the team at Jim’s Auto Services.  Jim Liacos and his staff are Raleigh’s Volkswagen repair professionals.  No matter the model or the year you can trust Jim’s Auto Services every time!  Call them for an appointment today at (919) 824-4566.

Change of Season - Change of Oil.

As summer leaves us for the cooler days of autumn we can also remind ourselves to do other things that impact our lives.  Change your home’s air filters.  Change the batteries in your smoke detector.  Fertilize your lawn.  Change your oil.  That’s right, if you have been driving most of the summer without an oil change then it is high time to do so!

Why are oil changes important to the health of your vehicle?

1.  Those moving parts in your engine will simply break down without lubrication.

2.  Friction + Heat equals disaster for your engine parts.

3.  Fresh oil breaks down the dirt that forms on your engine.

4.  Poor lubrication leads to poorer gas mileage.

5.  Simply put, routine maintenance will keep your car on the road longer.

Ahhh, routine maintenance.  Now, there is something that many of us put off for various reasons.  Fall is NOT the time to be doing that.  It is the routine maintenance that keeps you from having to come up with $15,000 dollars to buy a new car!  Make an appointment with Raleigh’s routine maintenance car repair pro…Jim Liacos at Jim’s Auto Services.  Call (919) 824-4566.

Hard Summer Driving Comes to an End.

So you have been a travelin’ person this summer?  If you are like many in North Carolina you have gotten in your car and explored America these last couple of months.  Of course, you know that takes a big toll on your vehicle.  It has performed like a champ throughout June, July, and some of August.  Now it is time for some auto TLC.

Here are some signs that your vehicle needs a tune up-

1.  You stop at the gas station more often.

2.  You are hearing some strange knocking noises.

3.  There is a squeal when turning the wheel.

4.  The brakes are soft and spongy.

5.  Sometimes your vehicle even stalls out.

It will not heal itself!  In Raleigh we have counted on the ultimate shade tree mechanic for decades.  We call Jim Liacos by that name because he learned to service every make and model of vehicle and is a veteran fall tune up specialist in the Raleigh area.  Call Jim for an appointment soon at 3711 Tarheel Drive.  That number is (919) 824-4566.

The Summer Sun vs. Your Car.

The sun is a formidable opponent when it comes to your car.  The heart of your car is your battery.  When the sun beats down, that battery takes quite a toll.  If you think about it, what would be more likely to happen, cold weather affecting the performance of your battery or hot weather?

The truth is, it is the searing heat.  Just look at the label.  If you purchased your battery anywhere from five to seven years ago then its shelf life is just about over.  That is especially true if you live in a hot climate like Raleigh.  Over-charging as well as excessive heat also contributes to its limited life as its liquid evaporates over time.

Fear not, there is someone who has your back!  In the Raleigh, North Carolina area Jim Liacos is your ultimate shade tree mechanic.  For decades, he has been Raleigh’s battery replacement specialist.  Before you find yourself stranded on the side of the road make an appointment at his shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive by calling (919) 824-4566.

Summer Starts Next Week.

There is something to contemplate.  Even though we have had a feel for summer heat already the official beginning is right around the corner.  Do you think you can make it through the summer of 2017 without air conditioning in your car?  If so, please don’t bother including me in your car pool this summer!

Your car’s air conditioning system is the life-blood that will make it tolerable to get from point A to point B in the Raleigh area over the next few months.  One tip that we can give you aside from having your A/C checked and ready for the heat and humidity would be to protect your car from direct sunlight as much as possible by parking in shaded areas.

The best tip of all, however is to have your vehicle’s air conditioning system checked and maintained by a real professional.  In Raleigh, that man is the ultimate shade tree mechanic.  His name is Jim Liacos.  He repairs and replaces air conditioning units in cars as well as anyone around.  Drive in to his 3711 Tarheel Drive location or call (919) 824-4566.

Time To Get to Know Your Auto Mechanic.

I think this is a really good idea.  Simply put, your mechanic is your car’s doctor.  You want to get to know your family physician don’t you?  In the same way, you want to know that the place you take your vehicle to be maintained and repaired is run by someone that you trust with your car’s life.

Consider this your formal introduction to your vehicle’s future mechanic.  We call him Raleigh’s ultimate “shade tree” mechanic because of his years working on every conceivable thing on four wheels.  He grew up just north of Boston (you might still be able to pick up the accent!).  He served in the Army in the late 60’s. 

Rather than continue to describe this renaissance man we invite you to visit www.jimsautoservices.com.  After you read the biography of Jim Liacos I believe that you will want to trust him with your vehicle’s well-being.  Let Jim work on your car EVERY time.  Make an appointment at his 3711 Tarheel Drive location by calling (919) 824-4566.

Brake Check Time.

Next to the engine itself and the tires, what could be more important than your vehicle’s brakes?  Your safety depends on them.  Now that winter is pretty much over it is time to make sure that your brakes are ready for increased highway driving in warmer weather.  When was the last time that a professional took a look at them?

Often, it is painfully obvious that brake repair is a priority.  When you hear that awful “squealing noise” when you put your foot on the pedal do not hesitate another day.  A less obvious, but important sign would be a “mushy” feeling when you apply the brakes.  We may convince ourselves that this is not serious, but it probably demands your attention.

Brakes do not always adhere to a schedule.  Your owner’s manual may tell you the number of miles that are “projected” between a brake replacement.  Safety is at stake here.  Trust Raleigh’s vehicle brake replacement expert Jim Liacos.  Stop by his shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive and have your brakes checked…or call for an appointment at (919) 824-4566.

An Auto Mechanic Who Really Does It All!

So many car mechanics specialize in one make of vehicle when it comes to repair.  We see German auto repair, foreign cars in general, or “we specialize in trucks”.  When you are driving a specific type of vehicle that may be okay, but give me someone who is adept at repairing everything on four wheels.

There are hybrids and diesels and mini-vans and trucks all over the Raleigh area highways and bi-ways.  If you see a mechanic that you are confident has all the knowledge to do the job right you want to adopt that person to do all of your preventative maintenance in 2017.  That man really does exist in this age of specialization!

He is the ultimate shade tree mechanic, Jim Liacos.  You see, Jim learned all about the repair and maintenance of cars and trucks decades ago.  Unlike some of the young guns who just go to school to learn about a specific type, he has become proficient at repairing nearly all of them.  He really is Raleigh’s true full-service auto mechanic.  Call him for an appointment at his shop on 3711 Tarheel Drive at (919) 824-4566.

Winter and Your Vehicle in Raleigh.

Raleigh is not Milwaukee, but it’s not Miami either.  Wintertime can and will take a toll on your vehicle if you are not prepared.  Have you had your coolant checked recently?  It could really be out of whack if you have too much water and too little antifreeze proportionately.  When temperatures drop below 32 degrees that water in your radiator will freeze.

Maybe you have neglected your windshield wipers.  If we have a rainy, slushy, snowy spell they will be in almost constant demand.  You had better be sure your car’s wiper blades are in tip top shape.  Have your tires checked as well.  A sudden cold snap will suck some of the air right out of them and the tread needs to be as close to new as possible.

There are probably about 100 things that can inhibit your driving this winter.  There is one way to avoid all of that - preventative maintenance from a mechanic you have counted on for the last 40 winters.  His name is Jim Liacos.  Jim is the Raleigh area’s ultimate “shade tree mechanic”.  He doesn’t have the overhead so he keeps his prices lower.  Drive into his shop at 3711 Tarheel Drive or call for an appointment at (914) 824-4566.

Happy Holidays from a Full-Service Auto Mechanic.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but when you find a family doctor that you trust you do not ever want to leave him or her for any reason.  When the kids start going to a dentist that you really like you want them to continue visiting that particular practitioner.  The same should apply to your auto mechanic…shouldn’t it?

If you see a nationally recognized name on the front of the building that COULD give you some comfort I suppose.  Here is the downside of that.  You don’t necessarily come to know your mechanic year-in-and-year-out.  There is something to be said for having the same person repair and maintain your 2017 vehicle that you also trusted with your 1978 Chevy.

For more than four decades Jim Liacos has been the ultimate “shade tree mechanic”.  He repairs as well as maintains domestic, foreign, European, even hybrids.  If you are located anywhere in the Raleigh Durham Triangle area you can count on him to treat your vehicle with the same TLC that he did your father’s car.  Make him your new auto mechanic by calling (919) 824-4566.

Headed North for the Holidays?

Just because you had the good sense to move to Raleigh doesn’t mean all of your relatives did the same.  You may have kin folk in New York, New Jersey or some other northern state.  Now it’s time to make that annual pilgrimage for a holiday visit.  DO NOT leave the warmer, more temperate climate of our area without a complete check-up of your vehicle.

How old are the tires on your car?  They not only have to hold up under the distance, but the changing weather conditions that you will probably face.  What about an oil change?  If you are even close to 3000 miles do not try to just skate by until you return to beautiful Raleigh for the remainder of the winter season.

Being stranded up north is cold (literally and figuratively).  To take preventative measures, make an appointment to see Jim Liacos.  He is the owner of Jim’s Auto Service, your Raleigh area cold weather vehicle maintenance professional located at 3711 Tarheel Drive.  After Jim gets under the hood you will be ready for winter driving.  Call for an appointment today at (919) 824-4566.

Test Your Battery for Winter.

You can almost count on it.  Your battery will fail just when you need it most.  Weather changes challenge your battery every year.  Think back…when was the last time that you even had your battery checked?  Is it fully charged?  When did you have it installed?  After all, it is the heart of your vehicle and needs to be treated as such.

The other thing to keep in mind is having a fresh oil change at the beginning of winter.  Your engine is effected negatively in cold weather with oil that has been running through it for more than 3000 miles.  This is NOT the time of year to squeeze a little extra out of your vehicle because you are too busy during the upcoming holidays.

How about combining both with one visit?  Make an appointment for an oil change and a FREE tire rotation and battery test.  You get all of that from Jim’s Auto Services.  Jim Liacos has been repairing and maintaining vehicles in the Raleigh area for 4 decades.  Call Raleigh’s auto care specialist at (919) 824-4566 and make an appointment with Jim at his shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive.

Engine Maintenance at a Fair Price.

There’s a loaded statement.  You don’t have medical insurance for our car so at times we trust a perfect stranger to repair our car’s “heart” at a fair price.  That is quite a leap of faith.  Did you know that the average tune-up nationwide has been charged anywhere between $100 to $1000?  That is quite a variable isn’t it!

Obviously, a lot goes into the pricing of a tune-up, such as mileage and make among other factors.  You know that the procedure is necessary.  Your vehicle will run more efficiently and in the long run you will save a lot of money in major repair costs.  Your owner’s manual is the best place to discover the projected lifespan of your car’s engine.

The next step is where to go.  How about a true shade tree mechanic who treats every vehicle like his own?  Jim Liacos has been repairing vehicles of every type for 40 years.  We are lucky to have him in the Raleigh area.  Call Raleigh’s fall tune up specialist at (919) 824-4566 and make an appointment with Jim at his shop located at 3711 Tarheel Drive.