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Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Get Ready, Get Set, Go Winterize Your Car


Winter's just around the corner and chances are your vehicle needs some preventive maintenance to get it ready for the cold weather ahead.

According to AAA, the most frequently uncovered problems in its annual vehicle inspections are improper tire pressure or low or dirty motor oil, anti-freeze, or other automotive fluids.

AAA offers the following advice for motorists preparing for the winter driving season:

Get ready: Before you drive long distances, check the weather conditions along your route. Remember to bring a cellular phone and a winter driving kit that includes a flashlight with fresh batteries, a snow shovel and brush, traction mats, ice scraper, booster cables, a blanket, flares, heavy gloves, window washing solvent and a first-aid kit.

Get set: Inspect your vehicle thoroughly before leaving your driveway. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, fluid levels are full, front and rear lights are operating, and hoses and belts are in good condition.

Keep in mind that one of the most common causes of cold-weather breakdowns is a weak or dead battery. Good indicators that your battery is weak and may need replacement include a starter motor that cranks the engine slowly when the ignition key is turned or headlights that dim noticeably when the engine speed drops to idle.

Visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility for expert maintenance and repair services if you are unsure about any aspect of your vehicle's condition.

Go: Now that your vehicle has the green light, here are some winter driving tips to get you to your destination safely.

* When driving in slippery and icy conditions, slow down and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Minimize your brake use and remember that traction is greatest just before the wheels spin. Applying gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal when starting is the best method for retaining traction and avoiding skids.

* The most effective way to stop on ice and snow is to apply your brakes gently, well in advance of the point where you intend to stop. If your car has 

antilock braking system, do not pump your brakes; continue to apply firm pressure to the brake pedal until your vehicle comes to a complete stop.

* Keep your seatbelt fastened and make certain that all passengers are securely restrained.

* When driving in falling snow or fog, lower your speed, use your low-beam headlights or fog lights and keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you.

* To help avoid gas line freeze up, keep your gas tank at least half full to minimize condensation.

Friday, August 28, 2015

High Gas Prices and Ways to Save


With Labor Day around the corner, the great American travel season is here. During the summer, most Americans take at least one extended vacation, and four fifths take that trip by automobile. Unfortunately, this year, the price of gas is at record highs, and no one likes to spend their vacation money on gasoline. While there is little to be done about the price of gas itself, there are some things the average vacationer can do to help ease the costs of auto travel.

Tune up the car. Making sure that your car is running at its best will help you achieve better gas mileage. In addition to tuning up your car, you should also check to make sure that your tires are inflated to their proper pressure.

Other small things that can help with gas mileage are keeping your car washed and waxed and keeping your luggage inside of your vehicle. Bicycles, luggage, and canoes tied on top create additional air resistance, which increases gas consumption.

Make sure that your air conditioner works properly. While the use of your air conditioner increases gas consumption, it's better than driving with your windows open.

If you have a credit card that offers a cashback bonus, such as the Discover card, use that for gas purchases instead of an oil company credit card. Discover even offers a credit card now that is made especially for gas purchases. It offers a larger cashback bonus for than the regular Discover card.

Some gas stations offer a lower price if you pay cash. If that's the case, then pay cash.

Shop around. The gas stations closest to the Interstate may not have the lowest prices. You might save a bit by purchasing your gas a bit further from the highway.

Drive at or near the speed limit. Most cars get better gas mileage at 55 miles per hour than they do at 70.

Shop around before you travel. There are several Websites, such as GasPriceWatch.com, that can show you gas prices throughout your travel route.

Each of the items listed above will offer slight savings in the price of gasoline or in gas consumption. The effect of each one may be small, but the cumulative effect should be noticeable. And every penny you save on gas is a penny you can spend on a memorable souvenir, instead.

Friday, June 19, 2015

No-Bummer Summer: How to Use your Car for Fun this Season

Huletz Auto Electric Service

Post Memorial Day Weekend, if you close your eyes, you can hear a classic summer-time movie voice-over: “Hi everybody, this is your cousin Brucie. Whoa! … Ping pong in the west arcade, softball in the east diamond … Complimentary dance lessons in the gazebo.” Summer has begun, and you’re ready for the usual suspects: swimming, barbequing, sports, camping. The usuals are great, but this year, Quoted has a way to mix up your summertime activities and avoid that inevitable mid-summer slump: this year’s fun is all about your car.

DRIVE-INS

If you haven’t been to the drive-ins since you were a kid, you’re missing out. Snuggling up to watch a movie on a giant outdoor screen with sleeping bags, plenty of snacks, and the soundtrack crackling over your radio is just as fun in adulthood as it was when you were a kid. One of the biggest perks is the double feature: most drive-in movies have two showings—a kid-friendly movie for the little ones, and after, usually something more grown-up. Follow our completely non-expert tips for making the most of your drive-in experience:
  • Arrive early enough to get a spot about halfway back, and about halfway in the row, not too close to the concession stand
  • Bring lots of snacks and drinks—the sweeter and saltier the better
  • You can never have too many blankets
  • Open the hatch if you have a larger truck and set up a little movie-watching love nest
Also remember that the experience isn’t just about the movie, so you can be less picky than you might in a theater.

DRIVE-UP RESTAURANTS

We think there’s something special about eating still-piping hot burgers and fries with ice-cold shakes in your car like you’re a too-cool teen in the ‘50’s—and doesn’t that mouthwatering combo just sound like summer?
Quoted scoured the web for the coolest local drive-up spots (because the chains just aren’t as much fun). If you live near one, you might consider loading up your family or friends and eating al fresco:
  • Dicks Drive-In: serving up the classics at six Seattle-area locations
  • Keller’s Drive-In: the Dallas, Texas standby serves up the classics—plus beer!
  • Sycamore Drive-In: a spot with many summers under its belt, you’ll find the usual fare with extra flair in Bethel, CT
  • All-American Drive-In: this Long Island, NY drive-in eatery lives up to its name in both food and decor
  • The Varsity: serving Atlanta classic drive-in diner deliciousness for 87 years
  • Frisco’s: located in Long Beach, Calif., this place has a huge menu and even huger following
Didn’t see your city on the list? Thrillist has a few more fun places to drive in and eat up. And if you know of a great drive-up restaurant for fantastic summertime car eating, tell us in the comments—you might help someone else crank their summer to eleven.

OFF-ROADING

Felicity Metzler, from 4 Wheel Online, told Quoted: “We’ll load up our Jeeps and SUVs with snacks and beverages, sunscreen and a change of clothes and go find a beach to drive along, find a trail to explore, or meet up with our local Jeep enthusiast club and find some muddy trails. When we’re all done, we’ll have a big barbeque/car washing party.”
If you don’t have your own Jeep, you can still get in on the offroading fun. From mountain trails to beaches, and SUVs to ATVs, there’s a rental out there for all types.
Consider changing the chore of car-washing into a meditative break.

EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW

This summer, dust off your old childhood games for some contemporary fun. Just add some expert organizing and, of course, your car.
Heather Piper, co-owner of Thrill of the Hunt, gave Quoted the details: “Thrill of the Hunt takes a traditional scavenger hunt and incorporates social media and technology to make it interactive and even more exciting. Thrill of the Hunt personalizes each scavenger hunt for team building events, fundraisers, corporate outings, educational functions, public hosted events and birthday parties for all ages.” Piper also told us they’ve “Developed scavenger hunts to cover a large distance, either for historic value, to force individuals to get to know an area, or to increase the overall challenge. This scavenger hunt could also include a road trip or an overnight adventure. Pile a few friends in the car and partake in a scavenger hunt!”

CAR WASH

For car lovers—and clean lovers, and those looking for some novel entertainment for restless children—there’s nothing like an all-inclusive car wash to mix up your summertime routine, and even add a little fun. Really! Just picture yourself traveling slowly on the conveyer belt, those huge rollers banging and scrubbing, and all the poured soap and hose action–you could do worse on a slow and sleepy summer afternoon. And if you have restless kids to entertain, tell them a story about caves and witches, or heroes and adventurers fending off monsters. Or, if your kids are very literal, have them guess each step in the washing process–you can bet waxing will stump them. You’re sure to get at least a few fun-parent points out of the experience, with the bonus of a shiny-fresh car.
If you’re more of a DIY type of person, you might consider transforming the chore of car-washing into a meditative break. Hans Desjarlais from Import Insider tells us that washing his car “On a weekly basis is a way to relax and unwind after a busy work week.”

Sunday, May 10, 2015

Vehicle Maintenance Costs and 2015 AAA Brochure


Automobile Care and Maintenance


Vehicle Maintenance

Driving costs also are affected by how well your vehicle runs. Performing regular maintenance can ensure more efficient vehicle operation and help prevent costly repairs down the road. Below are general checks to make sure your vehicle stays in tip-top shape. Read your owner’s manual for more detailed information on your vehicle’s specific requirements. When performing any do-it-yourself maintenance, always be sure to take proper safety precautions. 

Fluids:
  • Engine oil: Lubricates and cools the engine while cleaning internal parts. Running your car when it’s low on oil can cause serious engine damage. Check the oil level at least once a month.
  • Coolant: Prevents engine freeze-up in winter and boil-over in summer while protecting the cooling system from rust and corrosion. Check the coolant level at each oil change.
  • Brake fluid: Critical to proper performance of the vehicle’s braking system. Check at each oil change
  • Transmission fluid: Helps transfer engine power to the wheels, lubricates internal parts, maintains seals and acts as a coolant. Check the level at each oil change.
  • Power steering fluid: Transfers hydraulic pressure to reduce driver steering effort. Check at each oil change.
  • Gasoline: Follow vehicle manufacturer octane rating recommendations to ensure maximum fuel efficiency and prevent damaging engine knock.
Air Filter: Your vehicle’s air filter captures dirt particles and ensures proper airflow to the engine. Inspect the filter at every oil change and replace as needed.
Belts: Most vehicles today use a single serpentine belt to operate under-hood accessories such as the alternator. However, V-belts still are used in some applications. Inspect all belts at every oil change and replace when you spot signs of wear such as glazing or cracking.
Hoses: Hoses circulate vital liquids such as engine coolant, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Inspect hoses at every oil change and repair or replace any that show signs of wear or leakage.
Battery: The battery supplies power to the starter motor, acts as a voltage stabilizer and makes up for any shortfall when the alternator can’t meet the vehicle’s electrical needs. Inspect battery cable connections at every oil change and clean as needed. When servicing a battery, always wear eye protection and gloves.
Tires: As the only part of your vehicle in contact with the road, tires are integral to safety and ride comfort. For optimum performance, tires must have adequate tread depth and be properly inflated. Inspect tires and check inflation pressures at least once a month. AAA offers several resources to complement information found in your owner’s manual. They include:
  • AAA.com: Provides a variety of vehicle maintenance and operating tips. Online content varies by AAA club.
  • AAA Approved Auto Repair: The Approved Auto Repair network includes more than 7,100 shops across North America that are visited regularly and inspected annually to ensure they meet AAA’s rigorous quality standards and deliver exceptional service and value. AAA members using them receive special discounts, written repair estimates, free maintenance inspections, minimum 24-month/24,000-mile parts and labor warranties, AAA arbitration in repair disputes and priority service when their vehicles are towed in following a breakdown.
  • AAA ShopLocator: Available in most areas, this AAA.com search tool helps users locate nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities and provides lists of services, hours and other helpful information.
  • AAA AutoManager: This free AAA.com program sends users e-mail reminders of scheduled vehicle service requirements and due dates for vehicle payments and insurance premiums. It also provides vehicle recall notifications and helps owners track service histories. Online content varies by club.

To learn more, visit www.AAA.com or call (800) AAAHELP.
To locate an AAA Approved Auto Repair shop, visit www.AAA.com/repair.
To locate a AAA Spokesperson, visit www.NewsRoom.aaa.com

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Auto Electrical System Care Tips


Your vehicle’s electrical system ensures your motor and other accessories are working properly. Huletz Electric offers replacement batteries, alternators and other services to keep your vehicle on the road. Car electrical work is required since all vehicle parts eventually wear out. Auto electrical help will diagnose your engine and let you know if repairs are needed and how much it will cost. 

Your car’s battery stores voltage needed to start your engine. The alternator assist the battery by giving it power. If your car will not start, it does not automatically mean you need a new battery. Huletz Electric will inspect your vehicle’s electrical system and inform you of needed repairs. Your car electrical work may cost several hundred dollars. Auto electrical help can be found by researching mechanics in your area online. 

If your vehicle starts having starting problems, then you know it is time to take it to your mechanic for inspection. Maintaining your vehicle will keep you from breaking down on the side of the road. Check your tire pressure at least once a week. Tires naturally lose pressure and you can prevent a flat tire. Changing a flat tire on the side of the highway is a dangerous project. 

Keep your vehicle’s oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or according to your vehicle’s manufacturer. Take it to an oil change company that will also check your belts, hoses and fluid levels. Preventive maintenance is the best way to keep your car running at its best. Check your tires tread depth to ensure you are not riding on bald tires. 


Save gas mileage on your vehicle by avoiding sudden starts and stops. Do not let your car idle at a fast food restaurant. Turn the ignition off since it takes less fuel to start your car than what it is burning while idling. Drive your car according to the speed limit. Speeding will waste gas and possibly get you a ticket that cost a few hundred dollars. Obey all traffic laws since any type of ticket will cost you money. Maintain your vehicle and it will last much longer

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Auto Checklist For Maintenance



Taking care of your car is so much more than washing it once a month and always making sure it's full of gas. To truly get the most out of your automobile, there are some basic maintenance steps you should always do.

Power-steering Fluid
Check this each time you have your oil changed as it keeps the steering consistent through lubrication. If it's running low, you'll begin to feel resistance when you turn the wheel.

Electrics
Though not a major issue in the past, car electric work is becoming increasingly prevalent with so many parts of the car now running through the electric system. Places like Huletz Electric specialize in car electrical work and providing auto electrical help through diagnostics.

Air Filter
We check these regularly in our homes, so why don't we do this for our cars? It works to keep the engine free of debris, making sure it is always running optimally. The longer gunk gets to build, the more stress you put on your engine. A new one each year is recommended.

Battery
About once every 4 years your battery needs to be replaced no matter if it's still working great or not. Next time you go in, think about investing in a newer technology to keep it running longer and better.

Spark Plugs
These little guys are what make your engine work. They provide the spark that ignites the air and fuel of the engine. Without well kept plugs, they detract from how many miles you can get from your gas tank. Expect to replace this about ever 60,000 miles.

Coolant
Doing more than just keeping the engine cool, it also works as an antifreeze and protector against corrosion. This mixture of coolant and water should be changed at least every two years.


Take care of your car, and it will take care of you. The professionals at Huletz Electric understand this more than anyone else. Aside from auto electrical help through car electrical work, they offer all of the basic services you need to keep your car running smoothly.

Friday, February 20, 2015

Quality Huletz Auto Electrical Services in Town


A damaged car is a very dangerous car because it can malfunction in the road and can lead to an awful accident. Some car problems are too complicated for you to handle it yourself. Times like this you will need professional help from the best auto electric shop. Seattle huletz auto electric service is one of the famous shops for its quality service to its customers. They have been in the repair industry for a very long time. Soi they should know the drills for your car to go back in shape and to be repaired. Throughout the years they have been committed to the law customers first. So they are committed to make their customers satisfied with the kind of work they do. A well experienced company is an excellent company for they are already an expert in the kind of things they do. This is what huletz auto electric repair shop is all about. Huletz auto electric repair shop is all about excellent service.


The experience of Huletz auto electric repair shop gives them an edge. From the start of their years they have given the kind of quality service their customers needed. They always make their customers happy and satisfied. Their personnels and their electricians are all professionals and are committed to the work that they do. Every worker of this company has undergone years of training for them to deliver quality service to the customers. That is not all, their services are accompanied with reasonable prices that are suited for your budget. They would not charge a fee that is off the chart. Their quality service feedbacks excellent comments from customers, which is why they are considered to be one of the best companies for this kind of job. Their workers are very talented and would not waste your time in repairing your car. In fact, they might even upgrade your car.

The excellency of seattle huletz auto electric service are done at a daily basis. Their consistency of success in making their customers happy and satisfied is superb. Their technology in repairing cars is world class. Their tools are the best tools available. They work with efficiency and carefully so that every customer would not regret taking their car to their shop. I suggest you to bring your car directly at their shop. They would do the job and meet or exceed your expectation.

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Auto Electrical Repair Tips

Auto electrical repair is the process of  of restoring as well as maintaining a vehicle’s electrical parts which includes the things that make the car function or work such as automatic starting function, lighting system, air conditioning system and many more. When the problem or the root cause of the problem is identified it makes the repair task less complicated. But when the certain auto electrical problem is too complicated for you to handle, carrying out the task thru trial and error would be too risky, it would be more practical to look for seattle auto electrical service to do the job.

A common car problem with the electrical system is when there is a short circuit present , the reason for this could be the complicated and unorganized arrangement of the wiring as well as overheating. It is very important that you you should know how to handle this kind of problems. You should have the knowledge and skills to attempt a repair on this sort of problems. When you think you are equipped with these important things then why not? But then, it is highly recommended to have the professionals who are experts in auto electrical repair to do it for you. It would be best to leave this at the experts since this is seen as the most practical way. Short circuits are actually very dangerous, and prioritizing your own safety should be considered. One wrong move and you vehicle may catch fire. Another auto electric car related problem is due to gadgets such as the car’s audio and video systems. One of the reasons for this is overheating and utilizing more power than what should have been. You should know that the amount of money needed for auto repairing the electrical system of your car depends on the type of problem.


Therefore it is important to find the right seattle auto electrical service to do such tasks and that they are giving you the right charges for the services they offer. The services they're offering should be satisfactory if not the best. One way to know this is if they are a legitimate company and if their repairmen are certified with doing auto electrical repairs. You can't just leave your precious car on the hands of a repair company that is not reputable, doing that could make more problems for you and worse, they can even drain your money for nothing.