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$25 Off Repair or Service!
VALID FOR $25 OFF ANY SERVICE OR REPAIR OVER $125. Valid only at the Fulton location. One coupon per ... [More] visit. Not valid with other offers. Please PRINT and present this coupon when you drop off vehicle for service. 916-486-4100 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT NOW! ... [Less]
Timing Belt Special!
Get 20% off up to $100.00 off the labor to replace your timing belt. Includes: Replace timing belt, Labor ... [More] to replace drive belts, Inspect related timing belt components, Our enhanced vehicle visual inspection. Water pump, tensioner, idler, seals, etc. additional. Valid only at the Fulton Ave location. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Please PRINT and present this coupon when you drop off vehicle for service. 916-486-4100 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT NOW! ... [Less]
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Minor Service Special (recommended every 7000 miles or 6mo) Includes: Replace engine oil (up to 5qts), ... [More] Oil filter (standard spin on type), Adjust tune up specs, Lube door hinges, and suspension, Inspect and rotate tires (if needed) and set tire pressure, service battery and test charging system, Inspect and top off under-hood fluids, Our enhanced digital inspection report. Valid only at the Fulton Ave location. One coupon per visit. Not valid with other offers. Please PRINT and present this coupon when you drop off vehicle for service. 916-486-4100 CALL FOR APPOINTMENT NOW! ... [Less]

General Maintenance

It's Time for the 21st Century Tune-up

Times are changing...cars are changing. One of the biggest changes in today's automotive industry is the perception of a "tune-up." Ask 10 vehicle owners their definition of a tune-up and chances are you will get 10 different answers. The classic "tune-up" was once the heart of the automotive business and contrary to some beliefs; today's modern vehicles still need tune-ups to keep them performing at the most efficient levels.

The tune-up was historically associated with the routine replacement of key ignition system parts like spark plugs and ignition points, along with some basic adjustments to help "tune" the engine. Mounting pressure for increased fuel economy and lower emissions drove the car manufacturers to adopt electronics and to do away with ignition points in the '70s, along with the carburetor in the middle '80s. This eliminated the need for the replacement and adjustment of a growing number of ignition and fuel system parts.

As the pace of technology quickened, the procedures required to perform a traditional tune-up changed dramatically. Highly sophisticated ignition and fuel systems are now the norm, using one or more onboard computers to control critical engine and transmission management functions. Things that were once handled mechanically are now controlled electronically through the widespread use of onboard computer technology. This fueled the need for more advanced and highly trained mechanics or "Technicians" as we prefer. These highly skill individuals are scarce and very hard to come by. Fortunately, our Technicians at Made in Japan-Made in America are ASE or Master ASE Certified to work on your car. Next time your at a different shop or even the dealership, just ask them if they employ Master ASE technicians. You'll be surprised in answers you get. Most people don't know that there are no CA regulations that require a mechanic to be certified in anything. It's stickily volunteer  participation.

Sacramento General Auto Maintenance - Made in America

Because vehicles have changed so much over the years, the Car Care Council has introduced the 21st Century Tune-up. This program is designed to help re-define and educate motorists as to what a tune-up should consist of on today's modern vehicles.

"There is a misconception that today's modern vehicles don't need tune-ups because they never break down, but that simply is not true," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "If you're at work and your computer goes down, you can't get any more work done. It's the same with your vehicle. If the vehicle isn't being properly maintained, you're not going to get where you want to go." Proper Maintenance is the key to reliable transportation and avoiding costly and expensive car repairs.

Sacramento Car General Maintenance - Made in America

As part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today's modern vehicles, the following systems should be inspected:

  • Battery, charging and starting
  • Brakes and ABS
  • Traction and stability control systems
  • Axles and Differentials
  • Heating and Air conditioning systems
  • Ignition systems
  • Hybrid systems
  • Electrical systems
  • Steering and Suspension systems
  • Engine mechanical 
  • Powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks)
  • Cooling systems
  • Fuel systems
  • Ignition systems
  • Emissions
  • And the auto repair list goes on...

Vehicle owners ask for tune-ups for a variety of reasons, including improving performance, maintaining reliability, planning a vacation, preparing for winter/summer or because they're giving the car to a friend or family member.

To help ensure good performance, fuel economy and emissions, Made in Japan Made in America also recommends that motorists take the time necessary to become familiar with their vehicle from every aspect. Study the owner's manual to become thoroughly acquainted with the operation of all systems. Pay special attention to the indicator lights and instruments. Schedule an appointment to get your comprehensive digital vehicle inspection and health check report today.

Sacramento Winter Car Maintenance

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Mechanical failure—an inconvenience anytime it occurs--can be deadly in the winter. Preventive maintenance is a must. Besides, a well-maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, lasts longer, and could command a higher resale price.

Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; but others require the skilled hands of a professional auto technician.

  • Engine Performance - Get engine  problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at Made in Japan Made in America repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters-air filters, fuel filters, etc.
  • Fuel - Have your fuel injection serviced with BG products, cleaners, and enhancers by one of our Auto Repair Specialists
  • Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual—more often (every 3,000 miles) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. California climate, traffic, and terrain suggest more frequent maintenance intervals may be needed.
  • Cooling Systems - The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about periodically. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked at least once a year. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
  • Windshield Wipers - Replace old blades usually annually. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice build-up. Stock up on windshield washer solvent-you'll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper in case you find yourself in the mountains.
  • Heater/Defroster - The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Newer models have a cabin air filter that should also be replaced periodically. Check your owner's manual for the location and replacement interval.
  • Battery - The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
  • Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag. Also, never touch the bulb glass with your bare skin. That will lead to premature burn out.
  • Exhaust System - Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floor boards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.
  • Tires - Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressures once a month. Check the tires when they are cold, before driving for any distance. Rotate as recommended. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.
  • Carry emergency gear: gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, and a flash light. Put a few "high-energy" snacks in your glove box.

Sacramento Summer Car Maintenance

Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic, will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance. . . Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too!

Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.

  • Air Conditioning - A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.
  • Cooling System - The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled periodically. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked annually. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.) DIYers, Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.
  • Oil - Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual-more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer. California climate, traffic, and terrain suggest more frequent maintenance intervals may be needed.
  • Engine Performance - Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended-more often in dusty conditions. Get engine problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, check engine light, etc.) corrected at a good shop like Made in Japan Made in America Auto Repair in Sacramento. Just Google "auto repair near me" and we will be ranked at the top of the list.
  • Windshield Wipers - A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.
  • Lights - Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.
  • Tires - Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; check them while they're cold before driving for any distance. Don't forget to check your spare as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
  • Brakes - Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly.
  • Battery - Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
  • Emergencies - Carry some basic tools-ask a technician for suggestions. Also include a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight. Consider buying a cellular phone.

Sacramento General Car Maintenance Services

Car care is definitely a win-win situation. Besides helping the environment, a properly maintained and operated vehicle will run more efficiently, will be safer, and will last longer-up to 50% longer, according to a survey of ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians. The following tips should put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care.

  • Keep your engine tuned. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30% and will damage your expensive catalytic converters. Follow the service schedules listed in your owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended.
  • Check your tires for proper inflation. Under inflation wastes fuel-your engine has to work harder to push the vehicle. Wheels that are out-of-line (as evidenced by uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make the engine work harder, too. Properly maintained tires will last longer, meaning fewer scrap tires have to be disposed.
  • Keep your air conditioner in top condition and have it serviced only by an ASE Certified auto mechanic competent to handle/recycle refrigerants. Air conditioners contain CFCs-gases that have been implicated in the depletion of the ozone layer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, almost one third of the CFCs released into the atmosphere come from mobile air conditioners; some simply leaks out, but the majority escapes during service and repair-so it's important to choose a qualified technician.
  • Do-it-yourselfers: dispose of used motor oil, anti-freeze/coolant, tires, and old batteries properly. Many repair facilities accept these items. Or call your local municipal or county government for recycling sites. Never dump used oil or anti-freeze on the ground or in open streams.
  • Observe speed limits. Mileage decreases sharply above 55 mph.
  • Drive gently. Avoid sudden accelerations and jerky stop-and-go's. Use cruise-control on open highways to keep your speed as steady as possible.
  • Avoid excessive idling. Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family. Today's vehicles are designed to "warm up" fast, so forget about those five-minute warm ups on cold winter mornings.
  • Remove excess items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage. Store luggage/ cargo in the trunk rather than on the roof to reduce air drag.
  • Plan trips. Consolidate your daily errands to eliminate unnecessary driving. Try to travel when traffic is light to avoid stop-and-go conditions. Join a car pool.

Remember, how your car runs, how you drive it, and how its fluids, old parts, and tires are disposed of all have serious consequences on the environment.

 

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