Hi everyone, although keeping things the way they are is what we're comfortable with. Just like the seasons, we have to change as well. With that, I'll introduce myself. I'm Jay Carter the Marketing Guy for Shige's. I'll be blogging with things going on from time to time like; "yesterday, one oil change, and fifteen inspections or repair of air-conditioning units". Today was a little busier with other than A/C units, but it's funny that people always wait til the last moment, and don't just keep basic maintenance up on a car.. Let's face it; Besides the IRS, you hate seeing your Dentist and Mechanic about the same, even though its all for the health to continue longevity and your kind of screwed without either! Please leave comment or questions and I'll try to help on those as well. Until next time..
Vehicle Fluids Part IV: Brake Fluid
For part IV of our vehicle fluids series we will like to discuss brake fluid. And, we're gonna just jump right into it!!
The brake lines in your vehicle are filled with a hydraulic fluid known as brake fluid. When you depress the brake pedal, the fluid filled lines transfer force to activate the vehicle's braking system, which aids in the movement of the brake pads at the wheels. Brake fluid also acts as a lubricant and an anti-corrosion fluid that will make sure your brake system is working at its' best.
Brake fluid is made up of a mixture of varying glycols, which are derived from a mixture of non-petroleum and other alcohol based fluids. There are other higher end fluids that are silicone based. These particular high end fluids should not be mixed with other types of brake fluid and that is why it is important to understand the differences between types of brake fluid.
Brake fluid will get hot at times and needs to have a high boiling point. Do to the fact that brake fluid can reach temperatures as high as 1200 degrees, but can be subjected to very low freezing points, the brake fluid needs to be extremely stable to be able to maintain its' specific properties. In addition to temperature variances, brake fluid is also designed to not damage the rubber components that it comes in contact with in the braking system. But, because of the chemical combination of the fluids that make up brake fluid, it tends to permanently damage paint. Due to this, it is always recommended to be extremely careful with brake fluid and if it does spill, be quick to clean the spill thoroughly.
Brake fluid is what they call, "hydroscopic," which means it will naturally absorb moisture. Unfortunately, over time the added moisture possibly can create corrosion build up or decrease the boiling point of the fluid. Modern technology has improved brake hoses by making them more flexible, which is said to prevent some of the moisture issues. Today most of the brake fluid issues are caused by high levels of copper and resin from additives that have been expended. It is always best to check your brake fluid health at every service so that you can avoid brake system component corrosion or worse, sludge build up. This will occur when the fluid has reached its' life limit and it no longer has adequate anti-corrosive inhibitors.
Shige's Premier Auto Service will test your brake fluid at every visit. We use the FASCAR technology rating system that will identify exact amounts of moisture and copper in your brake fluid. Copper in your brake fluid is a sign of corrosion. We will show you exactly what it looks like so that you will know what your brake fluid copper content level is and whether it will be necessary to flush your brake system. It is really important that you maintain your brake fluid to avoid corrosion that can deplete your braking system or as FASCAR says, "Corrosion can pit the metal bores of the master cylinder, slave cylinders, and ABS components. This means that pistons cannot move freely, seals can be damaged, and cylinders can develop internal and external leaks. A thorough brake fluid flush is cheap insurance (FASCAR TECH)."
The brake system is for your safety, as well as the safety of others. It is our goal here at Shige's Premier Auto Service to keep your vehicle safe, reliable and on the road! So, give us a call at 310-323-1824 to make a reservation for your vehicle today!
Shige's Premier Auto Service will test your brake fluid at every visit. We use the FASCAR technology rating system that will identify exact amounts of moisture and copper in your brake fluid. Copper in your brake fluid is a sign of corrosion. We will show you exactly what it looks like so that you will know what your brake fluid copper content level is and whether it will be necessary to flush your brake system. It is really important that you maintain your brake fluid to avoid corrosion that can deplete your braking system or as FASCAR says, "Corrosion can pit the metal bores of the master cylinder, slave cylinders, and ABS components. This means that pistons cannot move freely, seals can be damaged, and cylinders can develop internal and external leaks. A thorough brake fluid flush is cheap insurance (FASCAR TECH)."
The brake system is for your safety, as well as the safety of others. It is our goal here at Shige's Premier Auto Service to keep your vehicle safe, reliable and on the road! So, give us a call at 310-323-1824 to make a reservation for your vehicle today!
Vehicle Fluids Part III: Coolant
Internal combustion engines, such as the one in your vehicle, necessitates the removal of excess heat. Therefore, the engine has a cooling system that requires coolant, which is a heat transfer fluid. Coolant also prevents freezing and protection from corrosion. When your engine is operating it can convert only about one third of the energy originating from the combustion of fuel into assisting to move the vehicle. Two thirds of this is converted into heat while another one third is released through the exhaust, which leaves the rest of this energy within the engine block. The engine block is then in need of coolant to absorb this heat and as the coolant absorbs the heat it then transports it through the radiator and sends it to dissipate into the environment. Due to this process, the engine is able to be fully efficient and operational
Coolant is sometimes known as anti-freeze and vice versa. Both are really just generic terms used to describe a fluid that can remove heat from the engine to keep the engine from over-heating. Coolant can be just plain water and it can be effective for cooling the engine. However, it would not protect against freezing temperatures. Anti-freeze will not only restrict freezing points, but in addition to this, it will protect against corrosion and increases boiling point during use.
Anti-freeze is a mixture of glycol, which gives it the ability to suppress the freezing point and raise the boiling point, corrosion inhibiting compounds and dyes. There are two main types of glycol, ethylene glycol and propylen glycol The dyes are to help more easily identify it, therefore avoiding confusion as there are several different coolants available on the market today. There is usually a 1 to 1 mixture of water and glycol that results in a freezing point ranging from -37 Celsius to -42 Celsius, but this is all dependent upon the formula of the antifreeze.
There seems to be two basic types of coolant available on the market today that are dependent on corrosion inhibitors. The first is referred to IAT or inorganic additive technology. It is the most traditional that is made with inorganic additives, hence inorganic technology. This coolant is most dependable that provides a fast acting film to protect the vehicle. However, the additives eventually will deplete. When this occurs the coolant will need to be drained and replenished every couple of years. IAT coolant can be used on metal engines with components that include steel, aluminum, copper etc. without worry of causing damage.
The second coolant is referred to OAT or Organic Acid Technology. OAT coolants do work differently than IAT based coolants. In the event of moisture, aluminum and other metals that consist of iron, will begin to create a surface-layer corrosion. OAT coolants will prevent the metal layer against corrosion. This type of coolant is designed to last longer than traditional coolants, but is not to be used with engine systems that contain yellow metals.
To the contrary, the fluid must also have the ability to stay heated, but not reach boiling temperatures and avoid the creation of vapor because the vapor with diminish its' ability to transfer heat.
It is best to stick with what the vehicle manufacturer suggests. Most of the more modern engines require the long life organic antifreeze. Always be aware of what antifreeze is in your vehicle because you do not want to mix IAT with OAT antifreeze. The type of coolant fluid used also really depends on the type of material that forms the engine, the geography and the climate. So for instance, when you're vehicle is going to be exposed to seasons where there is extremely cold weather, the fluid must be able to withstand the freezing weather and not freeze. Specifically why it is referred to as "antifreeze" because it will provide protection against freezing. But, in other climates such as a more tropical environment, one will need coolant, but not necessarily need protection against freezing temperatures.
Okay, so the takeaways are as follows:
Coolant is sometimes known as anti-freeze and vice versa. Both are really just generic terms used to describe a fluid that can remove heat from the engine to keep the engine from over-heating. Coolant can be just plain water and it can be effective for cooling the engine. However, it would not protect against freezing temperatures. Anti-freeze will not only restrict freezing points, but in addition to this, it will protect against corrosion and increases boiling point during use.
Anti-freeze is a mixture of glycol, which gives it the ability to suppress the freezing point and raise the boiling point, corrosion inhibiting compounds and dyes. There are two main types of glycol, ethylene glycol and propylen glycol The dyes are to help more easily identify it, therefore avoiding confusion as there are several different coolants available on the market today. There is usually a 1 to 1 mixture of water and glycol that results in a freezing point ranging from -37 Celsius to -42 Celsius, but this is all dependent upon the formula of the antifreeze.
There seems to be two basic types of coolant available on the market today that are dependent on corrosion inhibitors. The first is referred to IAT or inorganic additive technology. It is the most traditional that is made with inorganic additives, hence inorganic technology. This coolant is most dependable that provides a fast acting film to protect the vehicle. However, the additives eventually will deplete. When this occurs the coolant will need to be drained and replenished every couple of years. IAT coolant can be used on metal engines with components that include steel, aluminum, copper etc. without worry of causing damage.
The second coolant is referred to OAT or Organic Acid Technology. OAT coolants do work differently than IAT based coolants. In the event of moisture, aluminum and other metals that consist of iron, will begin to create a surface-layer corrosion. OAT coolants will prevent the metal layer against corrosion. This type of coolant is designed to last longer than traditional coolants, but is not to be used with engine systems that contain yellow metals.
To the contrary, the fluid must also have the ability to stay heated, but not reach boiling temperatures and avoid the creation of vapor because the vapor with diminish its' ability to transfer heat.
WHICH IS THE BEST FOR MY VEHICLE'S PERFORMANCE?
It is best to stick with what the vehicle manufacturer suggests. Most of the more modern engines require the long life organic antifreeze. Always be aware of what antifreeze is in your vehicle because you do not want to mix IAT with OAT antifreeze. The type of coolant fluid used also really depends on the type of material that forms the engine, the geography and the climate. So for instance, when you're vehicle is going to be exposed to seasons where there is extremely cold weather, the fluid must be able to withstand the freezing weather and not freeze. Specifically why it is referred to as "antifreeze" because it will provide protection against freezing. But, in other climates such as a more tropical environment, one will need coolant, but not necessarily need protection against freezing temperatures.
WHAT DOES ANY OF THIS MEAN?
Okay, so the takeaways are as follows:
Always remember that coolant is very important to the engine in keeping it from over heating. Coolant assists with effective heat transfer. It prevents the cooling system from corrosion. It allows for an effective boiling point. It assists in avoiding freeze points and it allows for chemical stability in the engine.
But, most of all, always **REMEMBER**, Shige's Premier Auto Service is here for you! Any questions you may have, please, call us, write to us below, go to our website or visit us on Facebook!
Make a reservation and come down to the shop! We will make sure that your cooling system is working correctly so that your engine can run as efficiently as possible so you can be on your way to LIVING THE LEGACY!!
Vehicle Fluids Part II: Automatic Transmission Fluid
Every vehicle is so intricately designed and has thousand of little parts that play many different roles that allow the vehicle to perform the way that it does. The transmission plays a huge role in the performance of your vehicle. Simply put, the transmission works to transfer the power from the engine to the wheels so that it can move forward. Of course, it is way more complicated than that, but we can just stick to the basics. There are four types of transmissions: Manual, Automatic, Continuously Variable Transmission, Semi-Automatic and Dual clutch Transmissions. All moving parts require lubrication and that goes for the transmission, as well. The fluid will protect and clean metal surfaces, extend rotational speed and temperature ranges. It also provides the proper viscosity, it prevents foam build up and the oxidation of the fluid, which extends the life of the fluid. Transmission fluid improves the cooling ability and reduces high temperatures and will condition gaskets so they stay supple and resilient for a long time. There are two more notable transmission fluids known as DEXRON and the MERCON. They both include friction modifiers and most other grades of transmission fluid is based off the former and the latter. Most car manufacturers today use these fluids in their vehicles. There are other transmission fluids that are oil and synthetic based that provide different properties like longer life and more effectiveness with high heat. There is type F, which is mostly used in cars from the 70's and is not so common today. HFM fluids is Highly Friction Modified, which is used in vehicles that need a little more extra friction reduction. Lastly, the synthetic fluids are becoming more popular these days in that they offer better performance and service. It also improves resistance to heat, cold, oxidation, friction and shearing. It is slowly becoming the standard, but it does come at a higher price because it is a little more costly.
All of the above transmission fluids are for the automatic vehicles. Manual transmissions necessitate different types of fluid. Most shops offer full synthetic based oils for the manual transmissions to again, improve lubrication and reduce friction from rotation. Today's manual transmissions are very sophisticated five and six speeds and high performance transmissions that require application specific lubricants. It is suggested that for all wheel drive and 4x4's need to be serviced every 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Have you ever had your transmission serviced? Not sure? Well, give us a call @ (310) 323-1824 or visit our website to schedule a reservation today! We can do a full comprehensive courtesy inspection to show you exactly what your transmission fluid looks like. Don't wait too long! We want you to make the best investment into your vehicle!! Shige's Premier Auto Service is here to help you out, always!!
All of the above transmission fluids are for the automatic vehicles. Manual transmissions necessitate different types of fluid. Most shops offer full synthetic based oils for the manual transmissions to again, improve lubrication and reduce friction from rotation. Today's manual transmissions are very sophisticated five and six speeds and high performance transmissions that require application specific lubricants. It is suggested that for all wheel drive and 4x4's need to be serviced every 80,000 to 100,000 miles.
Do to the fact that the transmission is such a key component to the vehicle's reliability and value, taking care of the transmission is absolutely essential. That being said, the transmission fluid should definitely be serviced to maintain smooth shifting. Some manufacturers have been known to consider automatic transmission fluid as a fluid that lasts a lifetime while other manufacturers believe it should be changed based on mileage and usage.
We at Shige's Premier Auto Service believe the latter of the two. The transmission is such an essential and vital element of a working vehicle that the fluid should definitely be monitored at each service interval.
Have you ever had your transmission serviced? Not sure? Well, give us a call @ (310) 323-1824 or visit our website to schedule a reservation today! We can do a full comprehensive courtesy inspection to show you exactly what your transmission fluid looks like. Don't wait too long! We want you to make the best investment into your vehicle!! Shige's Premier Auto Service is here to help you out, always!!
VEHICLE FLUIDS PART I: ENGINE OIL
Engine Oil: Proper Lubrication
Everyone needs proper hydration for their bodies to keep up with the day to day activities. Water is absolutely essential for the circulation of blood through our veins and arteries. As humans, we must maintain a delicate balance of water and minerals to maintain homeostasis. We have neural pathways with centers in the brain that are continually processing information that affects our blood pressure, hormones, digestive organs and much much more. Dehydration can cause many ill effects on our cognitive function that will induce symptoms of fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. It can also cause serious damage to very important internal organs such as the kidneys and liver, which can in worst cases, lead to death.
What Does This Have To Do With My Vehicle?
Your vehicle necessitates the same type of hydration in a sense, as well. Fortunately, as humans, we only really need water to keep us properly hydrated. But, your vehicle on the other hand necessitates several different types of fluids to keep all the parts lubricated and running smoothly. There is engine oil, of course, transmission fluid, coolant, also known as antifreeze, brake fluid and last but not least, power steering fluid.
The engine in your vehicle has numerous moving parts to it. Those parts work together and often do rub together, which creates friction and heat. The engine oil does two very important things for the engine. It lubricates all the moving parts and absorbs the heat that is created by friction, which is very important to the life of your engine. No one wants their engine to overheat!
Over time, as your oil has been absorbing all the heat that is being created by use, it begins to break down and becomes too viscous. When this happens, the engine oil is unable to absorb anymore heat and can start to smoke. Particles from normal engine use can build up in the oil and can reduce oil flow. This is why your oil filter is essential. Some older vehicles are known to leak oil or burn oil, as well. So, this is why one should be in the habit of always checking the oil level.
How Long Can Your Vehicle Go Without An Oil Change?
How Long Can Your Vehicle Go Without An Oil Change?
There are many factors that will lead you to be able to determine how often you should be changing your oil. One factor is the type of conditions you drive in. Another factor is what type of mileage are you putting on the vehicle and what type of driving you do. Do you have a long commute? Do you drive all freeways or do you just drive streets with a lot of accelerating and braking?
Most new vehicles today can go 6,000 miles or more before an oil change is necessary. But, that does not mean that you can ignore the oil. You should always be checking your oil to make sure you have enough oil in your engine, as well as the quality of the oil. The oil should appear clean and not completely black. If it is black, then it is time to change the oil regardless of mileage.
When In Doubt, Check It Out!!
It is your responsibility to be always checking your oil to make sure there is enough in your engine.
It only takes a few seconds to check and add some in case your oil level is low. But, it is completely understandable if you do not have time, or your not comfortable doing it. Shige's Premier Auto will do it for you! Give us a call or make a reservation for your vehicle online at ShigesPremierAutoService.mechanicnet.com and we will perform a full comprehensive courtesy inspection!
NitroFill Now Available At Shige's Premier Auto Service!!
What Is NitroFill?
NitroFill's Conversion Station produces nitrogen that is extremely pure up to the 99.9% range. Their system is programmed to be able to dispense a minimum of 95% purity inside the serviced tire and can convert up to 4 tires to NitroFill simultaneously.
NitroFill is a nitrogen inflation product that has been used in tires of vehicles requiring the highest levels of safety and performance since 1966. Tire inflation with nitrogen is required by most racing leagues like NASCAR and Formula 1. Commercial aircraft tires are mandated to be filled with nitrogen inflation by the FAA, as well. NitroFill has also been chosen by our country's Air Force for their most sophisticated aircraft fleets.
NitroFill is a nitrogen inflation product that has been used in tires of vehicles requiring the highest levels of safety and performance since 1966. Tire inflation with nitrogen is required by most racing leagues like NASCAR and Formula 1. Commercial aircraft tires are mandated to be filled with nitrogen inflation by the FAA, as well. NitroFill has also been chosen by our country's Air Force for their most sophisticated aircraft fleets.
What Are The Benefits Of Nitrogen Filled Tires?
We don't always take the time to check our tire pressure even though we definitely should. Proper tire pressure is actually a big deal for your wallet and the environment too. Proper tire pressure means increased fuel efficiency, and decreased emissions. With nitrogen filled tires, tire pressure will not fluctuate as much and will retain optimal tire pressure longer than if you were to fill the tires with regular air. This means you will have optimal grip by keeping the "contact patch" on the road, as recommended by tire manufacturers, which in turn will save you money on gas.
Tires are expensive so naturally one should want to maximize the life of their tires. Nitrogen filled tires will help maximize your tires life by reducing oxidation that will make the rubber brittle and lose its' tensile strength. With proper tire pressure chances of a tire blowout is significantly reduced with nitrogen filled tires, which increases your safety. There are other benefits like improved TPMS performance, more predictable pressure fluctuation for changes in the temperatures or elevation changes, as well. Nitrogen is simply more predictable due to the fact that it is dry and contains no moisture to contribute extra pressure changes with temperature.
Air contains moisture in the form of vapor. This eventually leads to rust or corrosion through the process of oxidation or hydrolysis. The former and the latter occur during fluctuations in outside temperatures. Both are commonly associated with rust and corrosion. It is quite destructive to anything that is constructed of rubber and steel, which is why when it comes to our vehicles, we should be very careful to avoid rust and corrosion. Nitrogen is a type of gas that is referred to as an "inert" gas. Given a set of conditions, nitrogen will not undergo any chemical reactions. So, this means that nitrogen will not oxidize or go through hydrolysis despite moisture in the air. Therefore, naturally nitrogen is the superior choice for filling tires.
Statistical Analyse, Please?
The Get Nitrogen Institute has some pretty interesting data. We definitely recommend taking the time to check out their page. There is a ton of valuable information on their FAQ.
Consumer Reports performed a study that began on September 20, 2006 through September 20, 2007 to see if filling tires with Nitrogen was worth the price. They purchased a Nitrogen inflation system to inflate 31 all season tires ranging from H rated models to V rated models that were used in a tread wear test they had performed the previous year. They filled one tire per model with Nitrogen and the other with air at room temperature at 30 psi. They used an oxygen analyzer to ensure 95% nitrogen purity, as well. At the end of the year, researchers found that the tires filled with air at room temperature on average lost about 3.5 psi versus the nitrogen filled tires only lost 2.2 psi from the original 30 psi. So, over the long term, you will benefit from filling your tires with nitrogen.Still Want More Info?
Check out Jay Leno below explaining why nitrogen is the superior choice to fill your tires with.
Do You Still Have To Check Your Tire Pressure?
Definitely! We should all be vigilant regarding our tire pressure. It just means so much to safety, efficiency and long term investment.
We at Shige's Premier Auto Service will always check your tire pressure for you at every visit for service or maintenance. Or if you're in the neighborhood, just stop by and see us for a quick check! Safety First While Living The Legacy!!
Let us know if you have any questions or comments, please comment below. We would love to hear from you!!
Shige's Premier Auto Service Believes In Gender Equality!!
The Author, Carla Behr, begins by sharing her story about her struggles to find a reputable Auto Technician to repair her daughter's old Ford. There is Behr background story beside the statistic that states, "9 out of 10 women believe they are treated differently at auto-repair shops than men are." Nine out of 10?! This survey was a national study performed by the Car Care Council, an association who's endeavor it is to encourage consumer's to educate themselves about their vehicles. Behr expounds further on the subject by giving another example that involves a Nightline Prime television series entitled, "The Lookout". Nightline Prime went undercover to local mechanics in the area, as well as to chain establishments. They found that the majority of the time women would be lied to about unnecessary work that needed to be done on their vehicle and that most times they paid excessive prices for this unnecessary work. Worst of all, it was found subsequently that the work they had paid for, in excessive amounts, was not even completed. Simply outrageous!!!
inspections or when we are making recommendations for services or repairs on your vehicles. We base everything we do off of the safety of the vehicle, as well as, reliability. Safety is extremely important to us because it means your life, the lives of everyone's family and friends on the road. This is always critical when it comes to servicing vehicles. And, we will recommend that if you have major safety issues with your vehicle and cannot afford to fix the issues, that you ground the vehicle until you can afford to fix it or can purchase a new one. Gender notwithstanding, insufficient funds is never an excuse when you put yourself and the lives of others at risk. That being said, all of us here at Shige's Premier Auto want all of our customer's to feel welcomed, no matter what gender or cultural background! Everyone will receive the same level of service and we guarantee this.
Behr does go on to admit that not all Mechanics are out to deplete everyone's funds and claims that she is only writing to educate and help women be prepared for the day they need to negotiate a fair deal. And, that is a noble endeavor and it should be commended. However, perhaps Behr could have began with the forewarning. Most will only see the title or take the time to read through a portion of the article and in some cases it will only serve to perpetuate negative beliefs regarding the automotive repair industry.Nevertheless, Shige's Premier Auto Service is working tirelessly to extinguish these negative beliefs that surround our industry! We want you to know that we are a progressive auto repair shop. We are constantly striving to evolve and take our industry to all new superior levels!! We will do all that we can to keep your vehicles safe and reliable at an affordable price, so that they may stay on the road for as long as possible!! It doesn't always have to be about gender or money. Lets make it about safety, community and teamwork. We want everyone to LIVE THE LEGACY!!!
Questions, concerns or comments? Please feel free to message us and let us know what you think! We would love to hear from you!
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We here at Shige's Premier Auto Service are always eagerly trying to engage and stay up to date with all the new information out th... -
For part IV of our vehicle fluids series we will like to discuss brake fluid. And, we're gonna just jump right into it!! The brake ...
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Hi everyone, although keeping things the way they are is what we're comfortable with. Just like the seasons, we have to change as well....