Independent Auto Care Blog

It is difficult to remember to winterize your Honda, since you are occupied with family events. However, if your car isn’t ready for a winter ride, driving it can be treacherous and dangerous. Thus, winterizing your vehicle is vital to having a safe and sound drive in snow. Here are some winterizing tips for your…

It’s going to get cold – so very cold – and you’ll want to be confident your Honda, Acura or Mini will start when you really don’t want to be shivering and seeking help. So, what might go wrong? Well, if your battery is more than five years old it might be ripe for replacement. If…

Years ago, oil changes were performed every 5,000 miles, or at least every three months. This standard doesn’t always apply nowadays since oil quality has taken sharp improvements. As such, changing your car’s oil will depend on your personal driving preferences and what is documented in your cars owner’s manual. If your vehicle is driven…

These electronically controlled valves work to deliver the precise amount of gasoline for the combustion process. Occasionally, there are problems; here are three of the most common to watch out for… Clogging – caused by factors such as rust, dust or accumulated debris Dirt – crusty gunk often caused by a residue left behind by…

A car tune-up is a preventive maintenance measure that ensures your car functions correctly and lasts for as long as possible. During a tune-up, your mechanic can detect minor problems before they turn to bigger problems that can cost you more money. Here are some benefits of a tune-up for your vehicle: It reduces the…

Maybe you think that the synthetic motor oil that is put in your car’s engine is sub-par or not as good as real engine oil. Put your worries to rest. Not only is it as good as regular motor oil, but it’s better. The manufacturing of synthetic oil enables the removal of impurities that are…

If you are thinking of replacing the coolant in your Acura, Mini Cooper or Honda you might head to an auto parts store. There you will find so much choice, in terms of formulas and brands. The question is: which is the right choice for your vehicle? A simple answer: head to Independent Auto repair,…

This belt is key to the proper functioning of your power steering, water pump, AC compressor and alternator. When you inspect it for wear and tear, you might notice some fraying or cracks, or even splits forming. It can also suffer from heat damage, causing it to harden and shine, like a glaze forming. Another…

The alternator works by returning electricity to your battery, leaving it ready to go the next time you need it. Here are four warning signs that it might not be properly functional: A growling, grinding or whining sound that is definitely not coming from a passenger An overheating smell of burning rubber or wires Flickering…

Correct alignment is important at any time, but it’s absolutely vital in the bad weather, and horrible driving conditions, that our winter can bring. You’ll want to be sure that you don’t have to keep correcting the steering when heading along a straight road. Vibration in your steering wheel as you pick up speed is…

In answer to this question, many customers who contact us will merely tell us the model of their Honda, Acura or Mini Cooper in need or repair. Good information, but many people are not aware that there are different brake pad options to consider. We can provide organic, semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads. Each of…

Your air conditioning is as vital to keep you warm on harsh winter days as it is to cool you down on roasting summer ones. So, what might go wrong with it? Among the many possibilities would be a need to have the condenser or evaporator either cleaned or replaced. It’s also possible that the…