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May 01
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Philadelphia, PA, auto service

Road Trip Essentials -Philadelphia, PA, Auto Services

By | Auto Service | No Comments

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road and going on a road trip. Whether driving to a national park, visiting friends and family, or exploring new cities, a road trip can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience. However, before you begin your journey, it’s vital to ensure that your vehicle is in top shape, having it checked with a Philadelphia, PA, auto service, and having all the essential items you need for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Maintenance And Inspection

Before you hit the road, it’s essential to have your vehicle serviced and inspected by a qualified mechanic. A pre-trip inspection can identify potential issues and ensure your car runs smoothly. An experienced auto service shop in Philadelphia, PA, can perform various services, such as oil changes, brake checks, tire rotations, and more. It will help prevent breakdowns, ensure optimal performance, and keep you safe on the road.

Tires And Wheels

Your tires are one of the most critical components of your vehicle, especially during a long road trip. Before your trip, check your tire pressure, alignment, and tread depth. Rotating and balancing your tires is also a good idea to ensure even wear. If your tires are worn or damaged, consider replacing them before you hit the road. A reputable Philadelphia, PA, auto service can help you choose the right tires for your vehicle and driving conditions.

Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is an essential item to have in your car, especially during a road trip. Your emergency kit should include a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit, and roadside flares. It’s also a good idea to bring extra water, food, and blankets in case of an unexpected delay or breakdown.

Navigation And Communication

A reliable navigation system and communication devices are crucial for any road trip. Ensure your phone is fully charged, and bring a car charger. It’s also a good idea to have a backup GPS, such as a paper map, in case your phone or other devices fail. A reputable auto service shop can install and integrate various navigation and communication devices in your vehicle to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

Entertainment

Long hours on the road can be tedious, especially for passengers. Bring some entertainment items to keep you and your passengers entertained. Consider bringing books, magazines, games, or portable electronic devices. You can also install a DVD or multimedia system in your vehicle to keep passengers entertained for hours.

Conclusion

A road trip can be an exciting and memorable experience, but being prepared and safe is essential. Ensuring that your vehicle is in top shape and has all the necessary items, you can enjoy your trip without worry or stress.

A reputable Philadelphia, PA, auto service shop can help you prepare for your trip and ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition. You can relax knowing your car is receiving excellent care at aPhiladelphia, PA, auto service reliable and professional auto repair shop providing various services. Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional auto service shop before your next road trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Apr 03
0
Philadelphia, PA, auto repair shop

How To Find The Best Philadelphia, PA, Auto Services For Your Vehicle

By | Auto Service | No Comments

Finding the right auto service provider for your vehicle can be daunting, but keeping your car running smoothly and safely is essential. In this blog, we’ll discuss finding the best Philadelphia, PA, auto services for your vehicle.

Look For Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a reliable auto service provider is to ask for recommendations from family, friends, or colleagues. You can also check online reviews and ratings of local auto service providers to see what other customers say about their services.

Check For Certifications

Certifications are a great way to know if an auto service provider is qualified to work on your vehicle. These certifications indicate that the auto service provider has undergone rigorous training and has the necessary skills to work on your car.

Look For Experience

Experience is another essential factor to consider when choosing an auto service provider. Look for a service provider that has been in business for several years and has a proven track record of providing excellent services. Experienced auto service providers have the necessary knowledge and skills to diagnose and fix various issues that your vehicle may have.

Consider The Location

Location is another essential factor to consider when choosing an auto service provider. Look for a service provider that is located near your home or workplace. It makes it easier to drop off and pick up your vehicle when ready. It also ensures you can get to the service provider quickly in an emergency.

Ask For Quotes

Before choosing Philadelphia, PA, auto services, ask for quotes from several providers. It allows you to compare prices and services offered by different providers. However, it’s important to note that the lowest price may sometimes be the best option. Look for a provider that offers high-quality services at a reasonable price.

Check For Warranty

A reputable auto service provider should offer a warranty for their services. A warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that the service provider will stand behind their work. Before choosing a provider, ask about their warranty policies to ensure you’re covered if something goes wrong.

Look For Specialization

Auto service providers specialize in different areas of vehicle maintenance and repair. Look for a provider that specializes in the type of service that your vehicle needs. For example, if you need transmission repair, look for a provider that specializes in transmission repair.

Check For Customer Service

Customer service is an essential factor to consider when choosing an auto service provider. Look for a provider that values customer satisfaction and provides excellent customer service. A provider that values customer satisfaction is more likely to offer high-quality services.Philadelphia, PA, auto repair shop

Consider The Facility

The facility where the auto service provider operates is also an essential factor to consider. Look for a provider that has a clean and organized facility. The facility should also have modern equipment and tools for diagnosing and repairing your vehicle.

Conclusion

Finding the best Philadelphia, PA, auto services for your vehicle requires research and due diligence. Following these tips, you can find a reliable and trustworthy auto service provider to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Remember, regular maintenance and repairs are crucial to the longevity and performance of your car.

May 25
0
auto repair in Philadelphia, PA

What Auto Repair Should You Do After An Accident?

By | Auto Service | No Comments

If you get into a car accident, whether it’s your fault or the other guy’s, one of the big concerns will be the continued safety of your vehicle. While you will exchange information with the other person and call the report into the police and your insurance company, you may also want auto repair in Philadelphia, PA. Here are a few steps to take to ensure that you are driving a safe vehicle, even after it has been in an accident.

Visually Inspect The Vehicle

Probably one of the first things you will do after the accident occurs, assuming everyone is okay, is take a look at your car and the other vehicle involved. You might be able to see some visible damage. Perhaps something is dented or scratched or maybe headlight or taillight is broken out. This can tell you that there’s damage you need to have repaired and your first stop might be a body shop to pop out dents, replace paint, and so on.

Watch Your Car For Changes

After you complete all of the necessary steps at the accident site, if your car is in working order, you can drive it home. Keep an eye and ear out for any changes in your vehicle. You know what it usually sounds like and how it usually handles. If you notice that turning a certain direction is hard or makes noise, that could become an issue. Pay close attention so you can assess any interior damage that you may not have noticed in looking around outside.

Have An Inspection

It’s best to make an appointment as soon as possible to have your vehicle looked over by auto repair professionals. Tell them about the accident, where you were hit, and if you noticed any noises or damage when you drove. They can look things over from door to door to make sure you are operating a safe, efficient vehicle. If there’s any damage that you weren’t able to see or hear, they can fix it for you before it gets worse and causes major issues. Your repairs may even be covered by insurance, so check on that as well.

These are a few things you will want to do after you get into an accident. Don’t feel like you are overreacting. Accidents can cause a lot of damage that you may not even see. For your own peace of mind and for the safety of anyone in or around your vehicle, have auto repair in Philadelphia, PA technicians look things over to see that everything is in working order. You can drive off the lot knowing that your vehicle is in the best working order, even after the accident ordeal. If you want to make an appointment with Schafer’s Auto Center, just give us a call and we’ll work you in at your earliest possible convenience. We can also listen to details when you call and give you a clue as to whether or not you need to rush in.

Mar 30
0
auto repair in Philadelphia, PA

Installing New Tires

By | Auto Repair, Auto Service | No Comments

When you have an auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, the technicians should always go over the details with you as to what’s wrong with your vehicle and how they want to fix it. You should also get a price and a timeframe for the repair. When you are getting new tires, you will know the costs, but you might not hear all of the details on putting new tires on upfront. If you want to know more about how tires are installed, keep reading.

If you know a little about cars, it can be tempting to buy tires yourself and then forego the technicians and just install them yourself. But for the safety and performance of your vehicle, it’s important to have professional installation. When the right people install the tires properly, you will have the highest level of function and safety possible. Tires only take about an hour to install and they’re well worth your wait.

Proper tire installation will include a number of things. First, the technician will inspect the lugs and wheel bolts. Next, they will install the rubber valve system, if your vehicle needs it. Then, they will mount the tires and balance them on your wheels. After that, they will tighten the wheel lugs to the right recommended torque as per the manufacturer. They will then service the systems and ensure that the tires are properly inflated.

When you have a professional install your tires, they will be on the lookout for any other issues as well. They will check over the rims you have on your vehicle to make sure they are smooth and don’t have rust or rough patches that could harm the new tires. They can use an abrasive pad to clear those patches off so the tires will be in good hands under the rims.

Having professionals install your tires is the last step, but working with the technicians every step of the way is also to your advantage. You will want to make sure you purchase the right tires for your vehicle and your usage as well. You might want any special deals that are out there, and you need information on how to take good care of the tires you get as well. Technicians can help you with every detail from start to finish.

If you need new tires on your vehicle, the next time you go in for auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, ask questions about the process. IT’s better to get the tires as soon as you notice that yours are worn so you can keep your car running at the optimal levels of functionality and safety. Visit with the experts at Schafer’s Auto Center about what you need in your new tires. You can call us at (215) 755-1270 to ask about sales or special deals we have coming up. You can also come to our showroom at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148 and take a look at different tires we offer. We can tell you about treads, performance, and more.

Mar 16
0
auto repair in Philadelphia, PA

More About Your Tire Patterns

By | Auto Repair, Auto Service | No Comments

Tires are, for lack of a better description, where the rubber meets the road. They are the connection between your vehicle and the road, which makes them a very important safety feature and what helps determine the performance of your vehicle in a big way. A lot of planning and design go into any tire and it’s important that you know more about them. When visiting a shop for auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, ask for more information on your tires so you know how to treat them to make them last. In the meantime, let’s take a look at the patterns on certain tires.

Most tire brands have different tread designs for each of their tire lines. The designs are carefully put together to serve various functions for different vehicles. The tires can be classified based on their specialties. There are four major tread patterns that are used on tires:

Directional Tread Patterns

These tires have obvious patterns with grooves that are cut from the edge of the tire all the way to the center in angled v patterns. These tires usually help cars to perform better. Because of their design, they prevent hydroplaning on water and give cars better handling. They perform well in snow and mud and they can give you better fuel efficiency over time. However, because of their design, they can’t be rotated and have to be fitted properly. They are more expensive than other options as well.

Symmetrical Tread Patterns

These tires are the most common and are easy to spot because of the blocks or groves that are continuous all over the tire tread. If you flip the tire, it has the same tread so it can be rotated to wear evenly. These tires are affordable because they are in high demand and are produced in large numbers. They don’t perform as well in the rain or snow since they are meant more for daily use.

Asymmetrical Tread Patterns

The pattern on the tire is rather strange with different designs on the shoulders of the tires. They handle great on wet and dry roads and they don’t give off as much noise compared to other tires. They also don’t last as long as have to be replaced more often and they cost a bit more. They usually only come in sizes 17” or above.

Flow Optimized Asymmetrical Tread Patterns

These tires are a combination of directional and asymmetrical tires and have half of a v design. They give you a high level of protection against water and give a great performance on curves. They are harder to find, though, and aren’t as available so they cost more as well. They also cannot be rotated.

Talk to the professionals at the auto repair shops in Philadelphia, PA when you need new tires to see what’s best for you. Call Schafer’s Auto Center at (215) 755-1270 and ask about new tires. You can also visit us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148, see examples, and get details.

Jun 03
0
auto repair shops in Philadelphia

Tips From An Auto Repair Shop On Traveling With A Dog

By | Auto Repair, Auto Service | No Comments

As the temperatures start to rise and the flowers begin to bloom, it’s nice to take your dog for more walks. While you may not be able to take the pooch into the office, there’s no reason he can’t come with you for a car ride every now and then. The auto repair shops in Philadelphia want you to travel as safely as possible and that includes anyone, or any pet, in your vehicle. Here are a few tips from professional car repair shops for traveling with your dog.

Tip 1: Seal Up Pet Food

If you’re taking your dog away with you for the weekend, or on a day long trip, remember how messy dog food can be. It can easily spill, and it can even spoil. If it’s going to be sitting in the car for a long period of time, seal it up in Tupperware or a plastic bag so it won’t spill or spoil.

Tip 2: Always Pack Water

You need to make sure your pet is hydrated as the temperatures rise. Always have water along to make sure everyone has a drink. You can keep a few bottles handy for him that you can just pour into a bowl when you make a stop. IF you’re having a drink, make sure he gets one too.

Tip 3: Enjoy Treats In Moderation

It’s tempting to hit the drive thru to grab lunch for yourself and get an extra dollar burger for your dog as well. Keep in mind that treats are okay every now and then, but don’t make that his regular meal while on the road. Moderation is key when it comes to pets and treats. You might be better off packing a few extra dog biscuits or a new bone for your dog to enjoy instead.

Tip 4: Take Breaks

If you think your legs get cramped and tired after a long drive, imagine your dog, big or small. They’re used to having the whole house or the whole yard to stretch out in. When you’re taking a longer drive, take breaks and walks to enjoy the fresh air. Even if you just walk around the grass of a parking lot for a while, it can help that restless feeling.

One of the best tips you can get from auto repair shops in Philadelphia about traveling with your dog is to keep your car tuned up and in the best possible shape. You don’t want to get stuck anywhere with hot weather and a dog in tow. It can get dangerous for both of you. Before you head out, visit Schafer’s Auto Center. Give us a call at (215) 755-1270 and we can change your oil, check your tires, and inspect your vehicle from bumper to bumper. With SAR on your side, your car will be in the most efficient mode possible. Stop by and talk with us today at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148.

Apr 01
0
Philadelphia, PA auto repair

Keep Tabs On The MPG To Predict Auto Repair

By | Auto Service | No Comments

There are some instances that make Philadelphia, PA auto repair  needs obvious. When a warning light comes onto your dashboard, for example, you know you need to get your vehicle in for a checkup. If something starts making noise, that’s another good sign. But did you know you can also predict upcoming auto repair needs by keeping an eye on your miles per gallon? When that mileage drops, there could be a number of causes.    

Keep A Small Notebook  

It’s not easy to keep track of numbers in your head between times of filling up at the gas pump. Instead, keep a small notebook in your glove box and right after you fill up, do a little math. It’s not hard to figure out how many miles you are getting per gallon based on how many miles you drove between fills and how much gas you put into the tank. Write that figure in the notebook and the date of the fill. Next time, you will be able to tell if your MPG goes up or down. If you see a large drop, that’s cause for concern.    

Watch The Dash Info  

A lot of vehicles today give you more information about your vehicle’s essentials that older cars. You might have an information button somewhere around your dashboard that changes the information you get. Play around with that button a little and you could see a MPG display that will tell you how many MPG you are getting, on average. Check up on that information from time to time to keep tabs on how efficient your vehicle is operating.    

MPG Change Causes  

If your miles per gallon does change, there could be a number of causes. Driving habits are often a cause. If you have been stuck in traffic a lot, idling your vehicle, it can cause the MPG to drop. If you tend to slam on the brakes or accelerate too quickly, those things drop that average as well. If you get a quick oil change at a location that doesn’t use the right oil, you could see a big impact on your vehicle’s fuel economy. Check to see what you got last before you panic over the MPG. You could also have bad spark plugs or bad fuel injectors. Sometimes it’s even as simple as a hot spell that has you using the AC more.    

If you keep track of your miles per gallon, you have another way to predict possible auto repair needs in Philadelphia, PA. That can help you avoid costly repairs. You know the sooner you catch things, the more likely you are to fix minor things instead of major problems that only get worse. Contact the experts at Schafer’s Auto Center for more tips on keeping track of your miles per gallon, or, if you’ve already seen a drop, call for an appointment at (215) 755-1270. We’re here to help you figure things out. Stop by and see us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19148.   

Oct 01
0
Philadelphia, PA oil changes

Budget Friendly Ways To Improve Your Ride

By | Auto Service | No Comments

If your vehicle is giving you a bumpy ride or the steering doesn’t seem to respond just as it should, there are things you can do to improve the experience you have behind the wheel. Philadelphia, PA oil changes, for example, can make a world of difference in the way your vehicle rides on a daily basis. There are other little things you can do for a small amount of money that also add up to a much better ride. Here are a few to consider.  

Wiper Replacement 

It might sound silly, but even the little change of replacing your window wipers can make a huge difference. IF you haven’t replaced your wipers in the last year, it’s definitely time. Even the best wiper only last 12 months or so. Wipers that don’t do a good job leave you with a streaky windshield, which makes it harder to see. You might have to crane your neck around streaks and smears, even when it isn’t raining, because the wipers just aren’t doing their job. This inexpensive fic can make a better ride with ease.  

Tire Rotation 

Your tires need to be rotated and it’s a cheap and easy way to get more out of the tires and your vehicle. Regular rotations will help you get even wear on all of your tires. It also enhances how the vehicle rides and handles. You’ll extend the life of your tires by thousands of miles and feel better about how it rides as well. It’s a good idea to get a tire rotation with every, or at least every other, oil change.  

Oil Change 

oil changes in Philadelphia, PA

An oil change is something you have to do for the sake of your engine, but it also helps give you a better ride. You get the most miles out of your car and the moving parts stay lubricated, which reduces friction and buildup. Every vehicle rides better when the engine is working well, and the oil change is something that is necessary to a healthy engine.  

Wheel Alignment 

When you hit a bunch of potholes around the city, who knows what’s happening to your wheel alignment. Get it checked every so often and get things lined back up when necessary. Your vehicle won’t drag in another direction when you are trying to steer it straight and you won’t have to worry about the tires being messed up by a bad alignment, either.  

There are plenty of ways to get your vehicle in better shape for a more comfortable ride. These ideas are just a start to keep you on budget. The professionals at Schafer’s Auto Center can get you set up for a Philadelphia, PA oil change or any other service when you call them at (215) 755-1270. We want your car to be as comfortable and happy as possible for as long as possible. SAR is located at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA. Stop in and see us soon for adjustments on your vehicle.  

Sep 10
0
oil change in Philadelphia, PA

Don’t Get Oil Changes Too Often In Philadelphia, PA

By | Auto Maintenance, Auto Service | No Comments

If there’s one thing you know about your vehicle, it’s likely that it needs a Philadelphia, PA oil change at a certain interval. It used to be that people would try to come in every 3,000 miles to get the oil on their vehicles changed, but as technology changes, so do vehicle needs. While you may know the benefits of getting your oil changed when it is necessary, have you heard reasons not to change the oil too often? Here are a few to consider:  

Philadelphia, PA oil changeYou’re Wasting Money 

If there’s anything you can do to put more money into your budget without wasting anything, you’d like to do it, right? When you get your oil changed before it needs to be done, you’re wasting money. You have “oil to burn,” so to speak and getting the oil change done before you need it start burning new oil when you had old oil left to burn. No one wants to waste money on car maintenance unless it’s necessary.  

You’re Not Guaranteeing Anything 

Some drivers use oil changes as somewhat of a cheap insurance on their vehicles. If they change the oil often, nothing else will go wrong on the car, right? No, that’s not right at all. You can ensure that your oil is in good condition and that helps a number of things, including the engine, but it doesn’t ensure that everything is lined up perfectly all the time. All it really does is spend your money. Things might still break down later.  

Other Things Could Be “Found” 

Have you ever gone to a quick service oil change place only to learn that the mechanic thinks you also need new filters, new brakes, or any number of other things? Getting your oil changed too often won’t hurt your vehicle, but if you visit the wrong place, it could hurt your pocketbook even more with unnecessary fixes.  

If you really want to know how often you need an oil change, it is best to consult your owner’s manual. If you don’t want to look into anything car-related, ask a trusted mechanic for an estimate. Most vehicles are good today until about 5,000 miles. While you don’t want to get an oil change too soon, you also don’t want to go in too late. Finding the perfect balance spends your money in the appropriate way and gets the most out of the oil you have placed in your vehicle.   

Are you ready for an oil change? Do you need help finding a good balance on mileage between the oil changes? Contact the experts at Schafer’s Auto Center by calling (215) 755-1270 for an appointment. We’re here to help you get the oil changes you need—when you need them. We never tell you something needs to be done on your vehicle unless it is absolutely necessary. Visit us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148 for your next Philadelphia, PA oil change. 

 

Aug 27
0
Philadelphia, PA auto mechanic

Auto Mechanic Tips For Lower Gas Mileage

By | Auto Maintenance, Auto Repair, Auto Service | No Comments

There are a lot of things you think about when you purchase a vehicle. You need something big enough to accommodate your family, but you also need something within your budget. Budget goes a lot farther than just the initial sticker price. Your Philadelphia, PA auto mechanic will tell you that gas mileage is another very important element of price on a vehicle long-term. There are plenty of things to do to keep the gas mileage as low as possible.  

auto mechanic in Philadelphia, PACheck The Tires 

Every tire has a certain level of air pressure that is good for that tire. If you don’t know what that is for your tire, ask your auto mechanic or check on the tire. Learn how to check the tire pressure or ask someone to show you so you can pull into a gas station and make sure the tire pressure is good every now and then. If it’s off, fill or let out some air. The tire pressure helps you get good gas mileage when it is at the right level. Plus, it will help the tires last longer.  

Driving Right 

You use a lot of gas by starting and stopping your vehicle. If you want to save as much as you can on gas mileage, it is a good idea to accelerate and stop gradually. Instead of slamming on the breaks, make it a habit to slow down earlier. Don’t slam down the accelerator, either, even if you are late. This will add up over time and the wear and tear on your car will be lessened as well.  

Visit Your Auto Mechanic 

You want your gas mileage to be as good as possible so visit your auto mechanic for oil changes, regular maintenance, and repairs. Visiting the auto mechanic costs money, but you’ll save quite a bit in gas as you take care of your vehicle. Your auto mechanic will also have tips and tricks for you to follow to get the best gas mileage possible.  

Follow The Book 

Every vehicle comes with an owner’s manual and if you follow what the vehicle needs in that manual, you will get better gas mileage. That means spacing your oil changes out just right and getting other maintenance done at the right time. This manual is in place for a reason—use it.  

If you want more tips on getting good gas mileage, ask the professionals at Schafer’s Auto Center by calling (215) 755-1270 with your questions or to make an appointment. We’re here to help your car stay in the best possible shape for as many years as possible. Visit us at our shop at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148 as well. We will help you with your gas mileage, minor or major repairs, or any question you have. The experts at SAR want to help you with any car-related issue and gas mileage is one that will affect your life greatly. 

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