How To Find An Honest Mechanic - As Featured In The Suwanee Magazine
February 2, 2017
By: DAN RYAN OF TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE
People spend a lot of time researching before buying a car, but often they don’t spend much time finding an honest, qualified auto service & repair shop. Your vehicle is not only likely the second most expensive purchase you will make, it is also responsible for keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road. The first order of business is to find an honest and qualified service & repair shop before you need them…
- Look for qualified technicians and shops that have ASE certifications and the Blue Seal recognition. Shops are recognized with a Blue Seal of Excellence if the technicians of that shop meet the high standards of the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) organization; they recruit the best employees, support new training and insist on the best equipment. Only 1 in 3 have one certification, meaning 2 out of 3 have none.
- A warranty is proof that a shop stands by their work. Warranties demonstrate that a shop will stand behind the work it performs. Make sure that the shop you are depending on is actually showing you that they can be depended upon. Check that the shop only buys parts from suppliers who provide a warranty.
- Choose a business that has good processes, that keeps their facility clean and properly stocked. While you may not know if a shop has the right tools, equipment or responsible processes, you can make some deductions with a high level of certainty from their restroom, lobby, and parking lot – anything that you can see. This is important because if a shop lacks proper processes, you could be sold parts you don’t need, or worse, be sent away with missing parts.
- Don’t fall into the trap that dealerships provide the best service and that auto parts stores can actually diagnose your car.
- Auto parts stores sell parts (code scans) that may read helpful, but are rarely conclusive when diagnosing a vehicle. Many dealerships no longer provide the best service. Out-of-date equipment and a squeeze for higher profit margins have left most dealerships in the situation of over-promising and under-delivering. There is little to no motivation for the service writer or technician to diagnose your car correctly the first time.
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
