UNDERSTANDING YOUR CAR'S OBD TECHNOLOGY
Below is helpful information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding your car's on-board diagnostic technology. For your convenience, all files have been converted to a PDF format. Please download the file by clicking on the appropriate links below. In order to view the charts, you must have software that can read .pdf files, such as Adobe Reader.
To download a free copy of Adobe Reader, click here.
U.S. EPA On-Board Diagnostics Fact Sheets
On-board Diagnostics Brochure
On-board Diagnostics Posters
FIND A SHOP YOU CAN TRUST
| |
| How do you find a shop you can trust to service your vehicle—one that will make you feel confident about your choice and provide quality repairs at a fair price? Here are some tips: |
|
|
|
 Start with the most obvious. Is the facility neat and clean? Are employees genuinely concerned with your questions and are their answers direct, to the point and reasonable?
Look at the credentials of the business and the employees who will service your vehicle. Most shops will post educational certifications or accomplishments and professional business affiliations in their waiting areas. Some affiliations to look for include trade association membership, such as the Automotive Service Association (ASA), and membership in the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for certification or education offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) and the Automotive Management Institute (AMI).
Ask about the equipment used to diagnose and perform the service. Is it up-to-date and are the technicians educated in the proper equipment use?
Make sure a written estimate is provided prior to letting the business begin the repair. A good rule of thumb is to request approval on any changes to the original estimate that exceed 10 percent.
Ask about the shop's warranty. Most automotive service facilities will warranty their parts and labor either in writing or in shop posted announcements.
Ask family, friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are the shop's best form of advertising.
|
|
To help prevent brake problems or failures, the following regular inspections and maintenance should be performed on your brake system.
|
|
Check the fluid levels.
Check the line for rust or punctures. You may be able to do this, but consult a qualified technician if necessary.
Check the brake hoses for brittleness or cracking. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Check the brake linings and pads for wear, brake fluid or grease. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Check the wheel bearings and grease seals. This check should be done by a qualified technician.
Adjust the parking brake as required. This adjustment should be done by a qualified technician.
Some signals that may indicate a problem with your brake system are:
Squeals-- caused by excessive heating of brake pads or linings.
Rubbing -- caused by the metal brake rotor rubbing against the metal component of the brake pad. This sound means that the brake pad is completely worn away.
A soft brake pedal indicating that there may be a brake fluid leak or air in the lines.
Brake pull indicating worn linings, stuck pistons in the calipers or wheel cylinders, or saturated linings (caused by grease or brake fluid).
|
|
Accident Advice
Most drivers make costly, long-term decision errors immediately following an accident as fear gives way to anger and frustration. Questions race through your head faster than the mind can register them. Who was at fault? Will my car ever be right again? What are my rights and responsibilities? A calm and informed reaction to an accident will reduce your chances for additional grief and expense.
|
Move your vehicle to a safe place, then stop and identify yourself to the other driver. (Some state or local statutes may require the vehicle be left as is.) If it can’t be moved, turn on the hazard lights. Seek medical help if you or other parties require it, and notify the police. Tell them who you are, where you are, and about any obvious or claimed injuries.
Exchange information with the other driver(s) including driver’s license numbers. Get the driver’s name, address,telephone numbers and name of insurance company. Also, list any passengers and witnesses.
Get names and badge numbers of any police officers who arrive at the scene. If there are injuries or extensive damage, the police should file a report. Ask to get a copy.
Avoid any extensive discussions at the scene about who is responsible for damage. If the other person admits responsibility, offers a money settlement and you accept, any future claim against the driver may be compromised. You or the other party may later find damage and bodily injury not apparent at first.
Write a complete description of the accident as soon aspossible. Include weather conditions, estimated speeds, and as much precise information as you can observe. Take photographs if a camera is available.
Have the vehicle towed or driven to a collision repair facility of your choice. If in doubt, there are some 12,000 Automotive Service Association (ASA) member-businesses around the nation. Look for the ASA logo in the Yellow Pages or the red, white and blue ASA sign. (Search the Find Nearest ASA Shop database to find a shop in your area.)
Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible.
|
CAR CARE TIPS
|
 According to recent studies, 5 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities are clearly caused by automobile maintenance neglect. The following simple and inexpensive preventive checks will greatly extend the life of the vehicle, ensure safer operation and even benefit the environment.
|
|
Always consult your owner’s manual, but a good rule of thumb is to have the oil filter changed regularly, every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
Have all fluids checked, including brake, power steering, transmission/transaxle, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze. These fluids play a large role in the safety and performance of the vehicle.
Check tire inflation. Under-inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency. This is the least expensive form of preventive and safety maintenance. Tires should be checked once a month.
Keep your engine tuned. A fouled spark plug or plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30 percent.
Have the chassis lubricated frequently. This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicle's suspension system.
Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed. The battery fluid should also be checked and filled if it is low, except in the case of maintenance-free batteries.
Have the lighting system checked frequently, including headlights, turn signals, and brake and tail lights.
Check windshield washer blades for cracks, tears and windshield contact. Replace them approximately once a year or sooner if streaking begins.
Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. Look for cracks and missing sections or segments.
Have the air filtration system checked frequently. The air filter should be checked approximately every other oil change for clogging or damage. This system ensures that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.
Always consult the vehicle owner's manual for individual service schedules as manufacturer maintenance requirements vary greatly.
|
|
Important items to carry in your vehicle
In case of road-side emergencies, accidents or bad weather, always have in your vehicle the following items:
|
|
Jumper cables
Pliers, an adjustable wrench and a screwdriver
A first-aid kit
Blankets
A supply of any regularly needed or taken medications
Candles and matches
Sand or kitty litter for climates with snow or ice
Clean water
Canned fruit or nuts and a can opener
|
|
Consumer Bill of Rights for Motorist
|
|
The following information is designed to aide you in the repair of your damaged vehicle. The material is intended to be general in nature. Before obtaining repairs, you should contact your attorney to ensure that the information complies with your state laws and regulations. This material has been prepared by the Automotive Service Association (ASA).
|
|
 |
Must I obtain three estimates?
|
Answer: Generally, no. Unless your policy states otherwise, no one can tell you to obtain more than one estimate. You, as the car owner, may do so, should this be your desire.
|
I was told that I must take my car to a certain repair shop. Must I do this?
|
Answer: Generally, no. No one can force you to go to a certain repair shop unless your policy states otherwise.
|
What is the best procedure for me to get quality repairs and quickly get my vehicle back on the road?
|
Answer: Take your vehicle to a reputable repair shop. Leave it with the manager. Instruct the manager to contact your insurance company and advise them as to the damage. You should then call your insurance company and advise them of the vehicle's location.
|
I don't believe I was at fault in the accident. Should I use my own collision policy or try to collect from the other party?
|
Answer: Try to collect from the other party because you will not have to pay a deductible. Also, if you use the other person's policy, you may be entitled to a rental car while yours is being repaired, and no accident should be charged against your policy.
|
Who is responsible to the repair shop for my repair bill - the insurance company or me?
|
Answer: You are. You may direct your insurance company to pay the repair shop, but the payment must be in the hands of the repair agency when you pick up your vehicle. Keep in mind, you are the customer and the insured. The repair shop owner looks to you for payment and you look to the insurance company for payment.
|
Who is responsible for the safety, workmanship and guarantee of my auto repairs - insurance company or repair shop?
|
Answer: Generally, the repair shop is responsible.
|
I am sure that the other driver is at fault, but no one has made any effort to see to the repairs of my auto. What can I do?
|
Answer: You are the owner of the automobile. Only you have the legal right to make arrangements for the repair of your automobile, not the insurance company.
|
Do I have to take my vehicle to a drive-in claims service?
|
Answer: Generally, no. Unless your policy provides otherwise, it is not mandatory to take your vehicle to a drive-in claims service. Usually it will suffice for you to call your insurance company and tell them where the vehicle can be examined by a claims person.
|
If I go to a drive-in claims service, do I have to take the car to its preferred shop?
|
Answer: Generally, no. However, if you decide to take your car to the preferred shop, ask your insurance company to implement its "elects to repair" clause (check your insurance policy). This may cause the insurance company to be responsible for, among other things, the quality of repairs.
|
I am having a problem with the insurance company. Can the state insurance commissioner's office help me?
|
Answer: Perhaps, yes, but the commissioner's authority is limited! The commissioner's office in your state can describe the scope of authority for you.
|
Can the insurance company and service shop make an adjustment and start repair on the auto without the owner's consent?
|
Answer: Generally, no. You should be presented an estimate to know what is being repaired on your vehicle before repairs are made, unless your policy states otherwise.
A Final Word...
Most state laws make it unlawful for any person to operate any motor vehicle that is unsafe or has defective equipment. Insist on having your vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition. Do not be pressured into having repair work done by a specific shop simply because of lower price.
The owners of some repair shops have pledged their shops to a rigid code of ethics. This code is designed to protect you and your property.
Look in the Find Nearest ASA Shop database for an ASA shop near you.
|
|
Archive of Past Tips
|
|
The following is a list of past tips featured on the ASA Web site over the past year. All previous tips will open in a new browser window once clicked upon. To return to this page, close the new window.
| September 15, 2008 |
Insure.com Launches Updated Car Crash Safety Ratings Tool
|
| September 8, 2008 |
Effective Use of Your Vehicle's Antilock Brakes Delivers Maximum Safety Benefits
|
| September 2, 2008 |
New Consumer Education Effort Helps Families Save Money
|
| August 25, 2008 |
Find an Eco-Friendly Rental Car
|
| August 18, 2008 |
AAA Urges Motorists to Slow Down, Stay Alert as Kids Head Back to School
|
| August 11, 2008 |
Senior Drivers to Increase 70% Over Next 20 Years
|
| August 4, 2008 |
Ford's New Smart Intersection 'Talks' to Cars to Help Reduce Collisions, Fuel-Wasting Congestion
|
| July 28, 2008 |
AAA Advises Parents on How to Choose the Right Vehicle for Their Teen Driver
|
| July 21, 2008 |
Exactly How Much Does Your Car Contribute to the U.S. Economy?
|
| July 14, 2008 |
Motorcycle Towing Service Provider Locator Service Launches
|
| July 7, 2008 |
Clean the Air Inside Your Vehicle for a Healthier Ride
|
| June 30, 2008 |
AAA Announces New Features for Summer Travelers on the TripTik Travel Planner
|
| June 23, 2008 |
As America's Aging Adult Population Continues to Grow, Transportation Becomes Key Issue for Senior Drivers and Their Families
|
| June 16, 2008 |
Inflation Could Actually Save You Money This Summer!
|
| June 9, 2008 |
What's the Deal With the Electric Car?
|
| June 2, 2008 |
Ride Safely Together in the Car This Summer
|
| May 2008 |
Safe Kids USA Plans Nearly 500 Child Passenger Safety Events During May
|
| April 2008 |
Consumers Look to Safeguard Motor Vehicle Purchases
|
| March 2008 |
New Research Reinforces Effectiveness of Speed Camera
|
| March 2008 |
Motor Oil Facts, Not Friction
|
| February 2008 |
How to Cope with Cold
|
| March 2007 |
Finding a Shop You Can Trust
|
| October 2006 |
Keep Your Automobile in Top Shape for Changing Seasons
|
| August 2006 |
Top 10 Tire Care Tips
|
| June 2006 |
10 Tips for Saving Gas This Summer
|
| May 2006 |
Rust: A Nasty Four-Letter Word
|
| March 2006 |
Top 10 Tire Care Tips
|
| February 2006 |
Be Aware of Tire Wear
|
| January 2006 |
Save Money at the Pump
|
|
An extended service contract is not a warranty
By Bill Z and Cathy D
Two for the Road USA
|
|
There tends to be a lot of confusion from the motoring public about extended warranties, and part of the misunderstanding lies in the fact that there are actually very few extended warranties at all. What is often called a warranty is actually a service contract; which in fact is an insurance policy that, in most cases has a deductible and does not offer true bumper to bumper coverage.
|
|
Since only manufacturers can offer warranties, it makes sense when they infer that one has to take one’s car to a dealership for warranty work. What isn’t so clear to people is that an extended service contract, even though it may be sold by a dealership, does not require taking the vehicle to that or any other dealership.
|
|
The truth is that any qualified repair center is able to do work on vehicles with an extended service contract. We suggest talking your vehicle to an ASA certified repair center where they’ll be able to counsel you about the provisions of the contract and point out exceptions that you may or may not be aware of. ASA certified repair centers have vast experience with the varied services so they’ll be able to explain, in terms you can understand, just what is and isn’t covered by your specific policy.
|
|
As far as extended service contacts go, we definitely recommend you see your ASA repair center before purchasing an extended service contract. This is just one of the many reasons to have a relationship with a repair center that knows you and your vehicle. If your vehicle is coming to the end of the factory warranty, make sure and purchase the service contract before it expires. You can buy one after the fact but it makes more sense to do it earlier.
|
|
Bill and Cathy can be heard every Saturday from 6-8pm on KKNT 960AM
In Wickenburg on Mondays from 10AM to Noon
In Globe on Friday’s from Noon till 2PM
|
| How To Take Care of Your Tires |
|
Proper tire care and safety is simple and easy. The Rubber Manufactures Association (RMA) recommends getting in the habit of five minutes every month to check your tires, including the space.
If you think you may have a tire problem or are unsure of the condition of your tires, consult a tire dealer as soon as possible.
To learn more about tire safety visit www.rma.org
|
| Get Ready for Alternative Fuel Vehicles
|
|
By Bill Z and Cathy D
Two for the Road USA
www.twofortheroadusa.com
Two for the Road USA was recently invited by Ford to check out the new Fusion Hybrid, and in listening to the presentation about where Ford is heading with regards to alternative fuel vehicles, we started thinking about the impact it would have on repair centers. Trying to keep up with the exponential changes in technology is challenging to begin with but here’s what’s coming down the pike as we speak with regards to drive train changes.
Most everyone is familiar with the hybrids on the road today from Toyota, Honda, Ford and GM but not many are aware that in 2009 Ford adds the Fusion and Milan hybrid iterations to the line up, Mercedes is planning to start selling an S-Class hybrid this year as BMW works on a 7-Series hybrid. Not to mention the rush to plug-in hybrids. And that’s just the beginning as electric vehicles will also be on the road in the next couple of years.
|
|
How will this impact you will depend on how ready you are for the renaissance. There’s no question that owners of these vehicles will be predisposed to taking their vehicles to the dealership after the base warranty expires because of the “technology” of hybrids. So, how do you let people know that they are not obliged to take the car to the dealership for regular maintenance and repairs like brakes, belts and hoses etc.?
|
|
First and foremost is making sure that the motoring public knows that you employ technicians today, not mechanics. Also, your customers know that your technicians are constantly being schooled on the new technologies in vehicles today? Do they know that you and your techs spend thousands of dollars on training and purchasing the technical tools necessary to maintain and repair the electronic components in vehicles today?
|
|
The landscape of automotive repair is rapidly changing and being in the forefront in your industry will guarantee sustainability. Our experience shows; that how you manage and market your business with regard to alternative fuel vehicles will determine how you will survive and thrive in this exciting new age of automotive repairs.
|
|
Bill and Cathy can be heard every Saturday from 6-8pm on KKNT 960AM and anytime on www.webtalkradio.us
|
* reprinted from the ASA National Website: www.asashop.org
