Category: Auto Repair

Get Your Car Winter-Ready with Northside Auto Repair’s Holiday Service Priorities

The holiday season is here! For many of us, that means road trips to visit loved ones and creating new memories. But before you pack the car with suitcases, snacks, and holiday cheer, it’s time to make sure your vehicle is ready to face winter weather. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to help you enjoy safe and stress-free travel this holiday season by focusing on four essential winter vehicle checks.

1. Tire Pressure Check – Grip Winter Roads with Confidence

Your tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so keeping them in top shape is critical. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop—about 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Low pressure not only leads to poor gas mileage and uneven tread wear, but it also reduces your ability to maintain grip on icy or wet roads.

Here’s what to look for:

Uneven tire wear
Low tread depth (use a quarter to check—if you can see Washington’s head, it’s time to replace your tires)
Low tire pressure warning light on your dashboard

If you’re unsure about your tires or need assistance, stop by Northside Auto Repair. Our team can quickly check and adjust your tire pressure, ensuring you’re road-ready.

2. Anti-freeze Check – Keep Your Engine Cool (and Warm!)

Anti-freeze, or coolant, plays a key role in protecting your engine from freezing in low temperatures while also preventing it from overheating. Winter is tough on engines, so maintaining the right coolant ratio is critical.

Symptoms of a coolant issue:

Engine temperature gauge reads higher or lower than normal
Coolant leaks (look for puddles underneath your vehicle)
Strange smells, like sweet or syrupy odors, from your car

Don’t risk getting stranded on a cold winter day! Bring your car to us, and we’ll perform a full anti-freeze check and replenish or flush it as needed.

3. Battery Check – Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns

Batteries lose strength as temperatures drop, which is why so many car batteries fail during the winter. Unfortunately, the cold weather also increases the demand on your battery since your heater, lights, and defroster are all working harder.

Signs of a weak battery:

Slow engine crank
Dim headlights
Clicking sounds when you turn the key

At Northside Auto Repair, we’ll inspect your battery, clean terminals, and even test its charge to make sure you’re not left in the cold with a dead battery.

4. Heater Check – Drive in Comfort

Few things can ruin a holiday road trip faster than the realization that your heater isn’t working. Your heating system not only keeps you cozy but also defrosts windows for safe visibility.

Signs your heater might need attention:

Weak or no airflow from vents
Air isn’t warming up
Strange smells or noises when the heater is on

If your heater isn’t running efficiently, our technicians can diagnose and fix the issue, whether it’s a simple filter replacement or a more complex repair.

Why Winter Maintenance Matters

Taking care of these service priorities doesn’t just give you peace of mind—it can also save you time, money, and frustration. Winter road trips can be unpredictable, but with a well-maintained vehicle, you’ll be ready for anything, from family visits to snowy adventures.

Schedule Your Holiday Service at Northside Auto Repair

Now’s the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter weather and holiday travels. Our friendly team at Northside Auto Repair is here to provide professional, reliable service to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

Call us today to schedule an appointment or drop by to learn more about our winter maintenance services. Don’t wait for problems to pop up in the middle of your holiday plans—stop in and we’ll get your car ready for the season!

Safe travels, and happy holidays from the Northside Auto Repair family!

ASE Certified Technicians

Northside Auto Repair – Your Home for ASE Certified Technicians

Welcome to Northside Auto Repair, where our team of ASE certified technicians is ready to provide exceptional automotive services. Our commitment to excellence and ongoing training ensures that we stay updated with the latest advancements in the industry. Trust us to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

What Does ASE Certification Mean?

ASE, short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, is an independent organization that certifies professionals in the automotive repair and service industry. When a technician is ASE certified, it means they have met the stringent experience and knowledge standards set by the organization.

Why Choose Our ASE Certified Technicians?

At Northside Auto Repair, our ASE certified technicians have demonstrated their expertise in various areas of automotive repair and maintenance. They are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose, repair, and service your vehicle efficiently and effectively.

We believe in quality, which is why we invest in our technicians by providing them with continuous training and the latest diagnostic tools. This commitment to excellence allows us to deliver top-notch automotive services that you can rely on.

Our Services

Our ASE certified technicians specialize in a wide range of automotive services, including:

Engine diagnosis and repair
Brake system service and repair
Transmission service and repair
Electrical system diagnosis and repair
Heating and air conditioning service and repair
Preventative maintenance services

Schedule Your Service Today

Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to maintaining and repairing your vehicle. Trust our team of ASE certified technicians at Northside Auto Repair to take care of your automotive needs.

Contact us today to schedule your service. We’re looking forward to providing you with the high-quality automotive care that you deserve.

The All Important Oil Change – A Must for Your Vehicle’s Health

At Northside Auto Repair know that an oil change might seem like a mundane task. But have you ever wondered about the last time your vehicle’s oil was changed? Or when it’s due for an oil change and filter? Well, much depends on whether you’re using synthetic oil, a blend, or standard oil.

Each type of oil comes with its unique properties. Starting with conventional motor oil, it is refined from crude oil extracted from the ground. It provides standard protection against wear and tear, and is often recommended for older vehicles because of its thicker consistency. However, it requires more frequent changes – every 3 months or 3600 miles.

Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is engineered in a lab. It offers superior engine wear protection, stays slippery at colder temperatures, and is less volatile, meaning there is less loss of the oil to the engine’s exhaust stream. This oil type can go for longer periods between changes, typically 6 months or 5000 miles.

While synthetic oil generally protects better over a longer time, it flows more smoothly than conventional mineral oils. This can be beneficial for an older engine, but it doesn’t mean you should extend the intervals between oil changes indefinitely. Even top ASE mechanics have found that with synthetics, it’s better to change more frequently than not.

If you live in a windy, dirty environment, such as Albuquerque, or drive on dirt roads regularly, all of your fluids, including oil, should be maintained at a shorter interval. The impurities from these conditions can infiltrate your oil and reduce its effectiveness.

So, remember, your vehicle’s health largely depends on regular oil changes. Whether you use conventional or synthetic oil, keep track of when your vehicle is due for its next oil change. It’s a simple act that can greatly extend the life of your vehicle.

Stay tuned to Northside Auto Repair for more tips on maintaining your vehicle’s health!

Breathe Easy This Spring with an Annual AC Service and Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Welcome to the Northside Auto Repair, where we aim to keep you informed, comfortable, and safe on the road. With spring upon us, many drivers look forward to warmer weather, but this season also brings challenges for vehicle owners, particularly when it comes to maintaining a clean and functional air conditioning system. Today, we’re discussing the crucial importance of scheduling your annual Air Conditioning (AC) Service and replacing your cabin air filter every spring.

Why an Annual AC Service Is Essential

Your vehicle’s air conditioning system plays a pivotal role beyond just keeping you cool during warmer months. It’s also vital for defogging your windshield and ensuring a comfortable environment free from dust and allergens. An annual AC service at Northside Auto Repair includes:

System Inspection: Checking for any signs of wear and tear on the AC components, including hoses, belts, and connections.
Performance Check: Ensuring the temperature and airflow meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
Refrigerant Level Test and Recharge: To keep your AC cooling effectively throughout the season.
Cleaning: Removing any bacteria and mold buildup within the system that can cause unpleasant odors.

The Importance of Replacing Your Cabin Air Filter

Spring brings an increase in pollen, dust, and other allergens that can significantly affect air quality in your vehicle. The cabin air filter is your first line of defense, designed to filter out these pollutants. However, over time, the filter can become clogged, reducing its effectiveness and potentially affecting the performance of your HVAC system, leading to:

Reduced airflow through your vents.
Increased allergens and pollutants inside your vehicle.
Unpleasant odors.

Replacing your cabin air filter every spring ensures you breathe clean, fresh air and enhances the overall performance of your vehicle’s air conditioning system.

Enjoy a Fresher, Cleaner Driving Experience

At Northside Auto Repair, we believe preventive maintenance is key to extending the life of your vehicle and ensuring your comfort and safety on the road. Our experienced technicians are here to provide a comprehensive AC service and cabin air filter replacement, preparing your vehicle to tackle the challenges of spring and beyond.

Don’t wait for the first hot day or an unexpected allergy flare-up to remind you of your AC system’s needs. Schedule your appointment today and ensure your spring drives are as comfortable and refreshing as a cool spring breeze.

Springtime Brake Inspection

Why You Need to Get Your Brakes Checked at Northside Auto Repair, a Neighborhood NAPA AutoCare Center

At Northside Auto Repair, we understand that vehicle safety is a top priority for you and your family. That’s why we highly recommend getting your brakes checked regularly. Don’t wait until it’s too late to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Importance of Regular Brake Inspections

Regular brake inspections are essential because they identify any issues before they become major problems. Our team of ASE certified mechanics at Northside Auto Repair will inspect all brake components, including brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums, and calipers, using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

Addressing these problems promptly can help you avoid costly repairs or complete brake failure. By having your brakes inspected regularly, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is safely equipped to stop.

What Can Go Wrong with Brake Parts?

Brake systems are comprised of multiple parts that work in unison to bring your vehicle to a stop. Over time, these parts can become worn, damaged or corroded, leading to reduced braking performance and potential failure.

The most common issues with brake systems are worn brake pads and rotors. When brake pads wear down, the metal backing plate starts rubbing against the rotor, causing a metal-on-metal grinding sound and reduced stopping power. In extreme cases, brake pads can completely wear down, leaving the metal backing plate to grind against the rotor, causing severe damage and complete brake failure.

Similarly, rotors can become overheated, warped, or corroded, leading to a shuddering sensation or pulsating brake pedal when you apply the brakes. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complete brake failure, putting you, passengers, and other drivers on the road in danger.

Get Up to $50 Back on New NAPA Brakes and Components

This month, customers who have new NAPA Brakes and components installed at Northside Auto Repair can get up to $50 back. NAPA Brakes are designed to provide superior stopping power, noise-free performance, and longer life, backed by the NAPA’s nationwide Peace-of-Mind Warranty.

Your safety is our top priority. Contact Northside Auto Repair, your neighborhood NAPA AutoCare Center, today to schedule a brake inspection. Contact us today to learn more about this offer.

Item Most Stolen from Vehicles?

Airbags are top stolen item

What item is most often stolen from vehicles?

Is it:
(A) Stereo
(B) Wheels
(C) Air Bag
(D) DVD System

Well, if you said stereo – you used to be right. But airbags have now surpassed stereos as the biggest target for theft – approximately 50,000 a year nationally in the United States. New airbags cost about $1,000 but go for $50 to $200 on the black market. Stolen airbags are making their way back into vehicles that have been in an accident in Albuquerque. Of course, the danger to the consumer of having a stolen airbag installed is that you can never be sure what may have previously affected them and if they will work right when you need them.

There are reports that 1 in 25 airbag replacements are stolen or salvaged airbags – or no airbag is installed at all.

[box type=”alert” size=”large” style=”rounded” border=”full”]2022 Update! Your catalytic converter is a prime target for the same reasons as airbags. Ask your Service Advisor about theft protection options.[/box]

That is definitely a part you don’t want to take a chance with, so we recommend following the following guidelines:

Use a reputable collision repair center like Northside Auto Repair that employs ASE certified mechanics.
Inspect the invoice to ensure that the repair shop purchased the airbag from a NM manufacturer, dealer or recycler.
If you can inspect the airbag prior to installation, it should be packaged in a sealed container from the manufacturer or recycler.

You will see the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light when you first start your vehicle up. This tells you that the airbag system is activated. If you do not see the SRS light, there is a problem with the airbag system.

Meet Our Team

Vic Dugger – Owner

The Dugger family name has been trusted for quality auto repair and service since 1972. Vic opened Northside Auto Repair in 1994, after working for the family business and later as a Service Manager in Colorado Springs. Since 1994 more…

Edward Smith – Technician

I’ve been working for Northside Auto Repair for 14 years. I’ve been an auto technician for 22 years. I graduated from Monzano High School in 1986, then TVI now CNM, with a diploma in diesel mechanics in 1987. more…

Rafael Hosteen – Technician

Rafael grew up in Phoenix and at a very young age started helping his father work on family vehicles. At the age of 20 he and another friend started their own business called “Two Guys Automotive”. They specialized in air conditioning, brakes and front end work. He then graduated from the Arizona Automotive Institute. more…

Northside Auto Repair

Northside Auto Repair can take care of all your vehicle service needs from basic maintenance to major repairs. We provide a best in the industry 12,000 mile/12 month national warranty to provide peace of mind on the road with over 13 ,000 Napa AutoCare Centers that honor our warranty.

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