Monday 27 June 2016

Certified Collision Group™ Announces Addition of New Mexico MSO Car Crafters

With the addition of the Car Crafters five locations as well as four others, CCG is on pace to meet the forecasted center count of 130 locations......read more

Sunday 26 June 2016

You Can’t Do Without These Parts For Your RV



You’ve just purchased a new RV and are thrilled to take it out on the road for a trip. If you want to take your camper or trailer to the next level, try these extra pieces.

Go Solar

Solar power is increasing in popularity, so why not equip your RV with these add-ons? Putting solar panels on the roof of your trailer or camper will provide you with the power you’ll need during your next camping trip or vacation.

Steering Control

If you have a motor home, you know how challenging it can be to control it. When searching for RV parts in Scotts Valley, steering control is a must. The tool is placed underneath the vehicle on the chassis, enhancing your ability to keep your vehicle safely on the road.

Step Stabilizer

Your RV should come with outside steps leading inside, but if you don’t have a stabilizer, you should add that to your list. A stabilizer strengthens your stairs and makes for more sure footing and minimizes the chances of a fall.

Cell Phone Booster

You may be in your RV to get off the grid, but chances are, you’ll need some cell phone coverage. A cell phone booster will ensure you have a strong signal for your devices.

To buy RV parts in Scotts Valley, check out the website.

More Than Just For Leisure


 

You may think your camper or motor home is all about relaxation, but that’s not all. Rugged, strong and powerful, put your RV to the test for some of your toughest jobs, and you’ll be amazed with what it can do.

5 Tips to Buying a Vintage RV

Vintage RVs have a certain charm and feel that seem to slow down time. If you’ve decided to purchase a restored camper or trailer or do vintage RV restoration in Watsonville, there are a few important points to keep in mind.

Towing

A vintage RV is smaller and more lightweight than their modern counterparts, so towing them shouldn’t be a problem. Use caution, however, and check your truck’s towing capacity..

Inspect the Tires

Tires can experience a lot of wear and tear, especially on RVs. Plus, if your camper or trailer has been sitting idle for a while, there’s a good chance the tires have worn out.

Be Thorough in Your Selection Process

Take your time when choosing a vintage RV. Check every nook and cranny, including underneath. Test everything and make sure all components are working.

Check the Floor

Before buying a vintage RV, carefully walk every square inch of the floor. Don’t be afraid to jump up and down a few times to make sure there are no weak spots on the floor.

Look for Gaps or Spaces

You don’t want a drafty trailer, especially if you plan on going camping. Get a good look at the windows and ceiling and make sure everything is sealed nicely. Click here to find out more about vintage RV restoration in Watsonville.

Thursday 23 June 2016

National AutoBody Research to Present Variable Rate Survey at AASP-PA Meeting

National AutoBody Research (NABR) announced it will present the Variable Rate System (VRS) at the upcoming AASP-Pennsylvania chapter meeting in Pittsburgh......read more

Car Colors and Repair Jobs


What is most important to know about the most popular colors to paint a car? While deciding based on what is popular is important, comfort with a car is also paramount. No matter what color the car, a proper repair job of the original paint color can be done.

Subdued or Bright?

Current paint colors on newer models of cars are trending toward being more subdued. However, whether needing a more sedate color to be retouched or choosing to repaint a car in brighter, more vibrant colors, it is possible to find the perfect auto body shop with people worth trusting who will help in any scenario.

It Is Up to You

Any car must be safe and comfortable to drive. Comfort level with a car also extends to whether it shows something about the driver. Wanting to have a great paint job is not uncommon. Ultimately the driver and owner of the car should decide how to match the color of the car with how much they want to stand out as well as elements of their own personal style and how important it is.

In Conclusion: Showing Off in Color

Although current trends are toward colors that may not be as bright, ultimately a driver must have the deciding vote on the color of a car. Deciding to stand out or blend in is a key factor in choosing paint colors. Drivers should choose the color they want. For more information on auto body painting in Carlsbad, click here.

After the Call


 

After the phone call home to let loved ones know of an accident, taking pictures of the scene with a phone, getting checked for injury and making plans to visit an auto body shop are important.

Monday 20 June 2016

Why People Choose Tonneau Covers



Any truck driver is bound to benefit by acquiring a new Tonneau cover for his or her truck bed. There are several reasons why this product is a great investment.

Enhanced Security

If you are the type of person to keep belongings in the bed of a truck, then a Tonneau cover is going to protect those items. You will not have to worry about someone stealing them when you park. You also do not have to worry about rain or snow damaging items.

Still Easy to Get to Items

While a Tonneau cover offers a layer of protection, there is always the thought of how one is supposed to retrieve his or her belongings when the need arises. Fortunately, Tonneau covers are very easy to operate, so you can get in there whenever you need to.

Great Appearance

For a more streamlined appearance, a new Tonneau cover is often the way to go. These covers come in all sizes and colors, so you should have no problem finding one that matches perfectly with the rest of your truck’s aesthetic.

If a Tonneau cover sounds right for your needs, then do not delay in getting one. Visit this website in order to find some great Tonneau covers in Murrieta, and before you know it, you will be driving in style.

The Benefits of Spray Lining Your Truck



Certain precautions should be taken in order to protect the overall quality of your truck. In order to prevent damage from occurring within your truck bed, get yourself some high-quality spray liner.

Conforms to Any Truck Bed

Carpet and other forms of truck bed liners are available, but if you are going down this route, you need to make sure you are getting something that will fit comfortably in your truck bed. Spray liner works for trucks of any size because you simply spray it on.

Variety of Colors

You might be protecting your truck, but that does not mean you should settle for something that does not quite look right. Spray on bed liner comes in a variety of colors, so you can find something that looks fantastic.

Other Liners Are More Easily Damaged

If you put a different type of liner in your truck bed, then there is always the risk it is going to become damaged. Not only does this affect the liner itself, but it allows moisture and other debris to come into contact with the actual truck. Spray liner requires much less maintenance.

Extend the longevity of your truck by getting an outstanding liner right away. Visit this website to find some great spray liner in Clairemont Mesa.

Shop Showcase: Monte’s Auto Body in CA is High on the Valspar Refinish™ Low VOC System

It’s a story we hear more than once; shops that are located in close proximity to bodies of water, whether it’s a river, a lake, or the ocean......read more

Signs You Need to Add a New Truck Grille



Grilles may offer some big boosts to the function, appearance and longevity of your vehicle. Have you thought about adding a grille to your truck? Here are some of the advantages a grille may provide.

1. Protection

There is a certain amount of risk inherent in driving down the road. Debris may fly up and damage the front of your vehicle. Though you try to drive carefully, there is always a chance you may hit a deer that runs out in front of you suddenly. Adding a grille may help mitigate the damage from events such as these. A grille will protect your radiator as well as the front of your vehicle.

2. Appearance

Do you want to improve the appearance of your truck? Grilles come in multiple attractive styles that will perfectly fit your vehicle and personal tastes, adding sleek, shiny appeal to your truck. Many of these grilles are also very durable and will likely last for many years under normal conditions.

Protecting Your Truck

Your truck is an important part of your life, useful for both work and play. Adding a grille can improve your vehicle’s aesthetics while providing important protection against the effects of collision or debris. If your truck is in need of an easy upgrade, you can visit this website to find truck grilles in San Diego.

Common Uses for Truck Racks



Adding a rack to your truck may prove beneficial in a variety of situations. Here are four of the most common everyday uses for a truck rack.

1. Moving Equipment or Tools

Do you need to transport tools or equipment to a job site? Perhaps you need to haul bags of feed on a farm, or planks of lumber to your next construction site. A quality truck rack can help you transport nearly anything you need to move for work.

2. Transporting Canoes

If you love spending summers at the lake, you may find that you need a convenient way to transport your canoes. A truck track should help solve that dilemma, carrying your canoes anywhere you need them.

3. Bringing Bicycles

Is bicycling an important part of your vacations? Then you will likely need to bring enough bicycles for the whole family. Install a truck rack so you can easily bring your bikes on any vacation, near or far.

4. Hunting Trips

There are certain things you will need to bring on your hunting trip. A truck rack can handle all your hunting gear, and will also carry any animals you bring out from your next successful hunt.

Truck racks let you carry a wide variety of things for both work and play. Are you looking for truck racks in Clairemont Mesa? Visit this website to find out more.

Devices for Your Vehicle


 

Various devices should be working in order to get the most out of your vehicle. If you are having issues with any of them, take them to a professional right away.

Sunday 19 June 2016

3 Accessories Every Truck Needs

When you purchase a new truck, it might not come with all the little bells and whistles you want. Fortunately, you can still purchase accessories on your own and attach them to your truck on your own.

1. Tool Box

In case something happens to your truck, it is always nice having some supplies readily at hand. If you need some gear for your work, you can keep those items in the tool box as well. It is just a nice thing to have in case you require some supplies at a moment’s notice.

2. Nerf Bar

Trucks that are a little too high off the ground might be difficult to get in and out of. Adding some nerf bars makes entering and exiting so much easier. Coworkers and family members alike will probably thank you for this addition.

3. Bed Mat

Transporting items in the bed of your truck opens that area up to scratches and other pieces of damage. A mat prevents that damage from occurring, and a mat can even help with stopping certain items from rolling around too much.

There are many more accessories you can get for your truck other than the ones listed here. Visit this website to see what other truck accessories in San Diego you can get.

Saturday 18 June 2016

Why Get an Oil Change



All cars require maintenance. One of the simplest ways to keep a car running smoothly is merely getting its oil changed every few thousand miles, generally between 3,000 and 10,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and the type of oil used. There are several reasons to not neglect this important step in maintenance.
  • Optimum performance.Just as the human bones need cartilage, a car needs oil. Oil keeps many of your car’s engine parts from rubbing together and creating friction. Metal against metal can overheat, causing your car engine to lock up.

  • Dirt. Again comparing your car to the human body, think of what happens when arteries get clogged by cholesterol: a person suffers a heart attack. The same is true for oil: as it runs through the engine, it picks up dirt and sediment. Oil changes prevent that buildup from clogging the engine.


  • Chemical breakdown.Another bodily analogy is to imagine what happens to a body when it gets hot. Just as heat causes a body to sweat, heat also causes oil to undergo a change. In some cases, oil gets thinner with a watery consistency, while in other cases, it may get thick and gummy.

The engine of a car very much resembles the human body and oil is a major component of a properly functioning engine. To take care of your car’s body, visit this website for a quality oil change in Mountain View.

Complete Agenda and Speakers Released for NACE | CARS Service Repair Leadership Forum

The complete agenda has been released for the Service Repair Leadership Forum (SRLF), taking place during NACE | CARS on Thursday......read more

Some Common Problems in BMWs



The German-invented BMW is one of the most world-renowned vehicles, enjoying a longevity of a hundred years. While this classic vehicle is known for its quality, problems can sometimes arise.Although at times the indicator lights will come on to give warning of problems, there are other problems that may not be detected. Here are some surefire signs that your BMW may need some maintenance.
  • Hypersensitive steering. A highly sophisticated steering system is one of the tenets that BMW is famous for. However, it is often one of the most common issues that arise. If the vehicle overreacts to mild steering, this is a sign that it needs repair.

  • Lamp problems. Like any other car, BMWs are susceptible to lamp problems. Whether it is a simple bulb or fuse replacement, or signs of a more serious electrical problems, you should see an authorized BMW repair service.


  • Windows. Unfortunately, one of the first things to malfunction on a BMW are its windows. If you find that your windows are slow to respond to winding, this indicates a potential problem.

Taken care of properly, a BMW can last for several decades. BMW owners who are experiencing issues should seek out repairs from a reputable shop. Owners who need BMW repair in Sunnyvale should click here for this website.

Maintaining a European Car

In the automobile world, one of the questions that usually surfaces is the difference between foreign cars and domestic cars, with the cost of repairs being one of the defining factors in the debate. Even though the market is changing and there are foreign brands such as Hyundai and Kia that are breaking the price mold, European cars are still more expensive to repair. To avoid expensive repairs, it is important to maintain your European car and there are several ways to do so.
  • Regular Oil Changes. An essential component to maintaining any vehicle is getting regular oil changes. Check your owner’s manual for the maintenance schedule and type of oil to use and follow the schedule closely. Using the wrong oil could void the warranty on your car.

  • Regular Wheel Maintenance. Check your tires regularly for signs of wear or damage. Although their primary contact is with road, problems with tires can affect steering, balance and brakes. Tires should have a healthy tread, which can be tested by placing a penny in a groove and seeing Lincoln’s head disappear.

  • Visit an Authorized European Car Shop. All cars are not treated equally, and European cars are no exception. Any repair shop you visit for extensive work should have certifications for European models, especially the model you own!

European cars required more skilled maintenance than most vehicles and as such, should be handled by a shop that specializes in them. For a European car technician in Palo Alto, look no further than here.

Friday 17 June 2016

BMW, The Epitome Of Vehicle Styling


 

Sleek, clean lines, attention to detail, incredible performance ratings, and high-end finishes—what more could you ask for in a car? BMW is built to last—and be loved—by owners and collectors alike.

When to Replace Your Truck Exhaust



The best time to replace your truck exhaust is as soon as something goes wrong. You may not always immediately recognize the signs of exhaust problems, however. Here are three times when you should consider replacing the exhaust system on your truck.

1. You Are Paying More at the Pump

Your truck’s exhaust system plays a big role in boosting your fuel efficiency. If you notice a rapid decrease in mileage, there is a possibility something has gone wrong with your exhaust. Visit a mechanic as soon as you can. An expert should be able to pinpoint the issue and advise you of any needed repairs.

2. Your Truck Is Suddenly Louder

Has your truck suddenly begun bothering the neighbors and disturbing the peace? If a vehicle that normally purrs has escalated to a roar, this is a clear sign that it has an exhaust problem. It is likely that your newly loud truck is no longer compliant with emissions laws, in addition to other possible negative consequences of exhaust damage.

3. You Want to Improve Performance

Perhaps your truck exhaust system is still functioning, but you would like to improve vehicle performance. Replacing your truck’s exhaust may help boost fuel efficiency and amp up the engine’s available horsepower.

Do you need a new exhaust system in order to repair problems or improve performance? Visit this website to find truck exhaust replacement in Pacific Beach.

When to Replace Your Brakes



Your vehicle’s brakes are essential to keeping you safe and helping prevent car accidents. Are you wondering how to know when your brakes need to be replaced? Here are three signs you should watch out for.

1. Noises

If you hear a squeal when you brake, you know that it is time for brake replacement. Some sounds produced by failing brakes could be subtler, however. You may hear a strange clicking or grinding noise. If your brakes begin to make any unusual sounds, get them checked, and then replaced if necessary.

2. Performance

When your brakes are failing, you may begin to notice that they behave strangely or perform poorly. Your vehicle may pull to the side when you brake. The brakes may engage too hard, or may not engage at all until the pedal has nearly reached the floor.

3. Warning Lights

Depending on its brake system, your vehicle may have built in warning lights to alert you to possible problems. If your antilock brake system’s warning light turns on, do not ignore it. This could be a sign of early brake issues that need to be dealt with immediately.

It is important that you keep your vehicle’s brakes in good repair. Have you noticed problems with your braking system? Visit this website to find brake replacement in La Jolla.

Assured Performance to Partner with Nissan North America in Relaunching Nissan GT-R Certified Collision Repair Program

Assured Performance has announced it is entering into an exclusive strategic agreement with Nissan North America to relaunch and manage their GT-R Certified Collision Repair..... Read more

Types of Catalytic Converters for Your Truck



Catalytic converters play a vital role in reducing your vehicle’s emissions, which can help keep you in compliance with federal and local laws. Sometimes this important component may fail and need to be replaced. These are the two main types of catalytic converters for your truck.

1. Two Way

Do you drive a diesel truck? If so, you are most likely to need a two way catalytic converter. These are typically installed on diesel engines to control the emission of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon. A diesel burning engine will require a different sort of catalytic converter than its gas burning counterpart.

2. Three Way

For standard gas burning engines, a three way catalytic converter is the most common type. If operating correctly, these converters are very effective at regulating nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. The exact specifications needed for your catalytic converter will likely depend your location. Some states, such as California, have stringent emissions laws to help control smog and pollution.

Replacing Your Catalytic Converter

There are a number of things that could cause you to need a new catalytic converter. These may include meltdowns or physical damage. Fortunately, you should be able to find aftermarket catalytic converters that will get you back into compliance with federal and state laws. Visit this website to find catalytic converter replacement in San Diego.

Tips on Keeping a Lasting Wheel Alignment



Good wheel alignment is important for your vehicle’s operation and longevity. Correctly aligned wheels may make your drive feel smoother, prevent your tires from quickly wearing out and improve your fuel efficiency. Here are three tips on keeping your wheels aligned.

1. Avoid Rough Driving

As much as you are able, try to avoid driving down extremely rough roads with damaged pavement or lots of potholes. Also,take care when backing up or navigating near a curb. Something as simple as driving through a pothole or bumping a curb may throw off your vehicle’s wheel alignment.

2. Get Regular Alignment Checks

It is likely that you will not always know when something has happened to harm your car’s wheel alignment. Rough roads and accidental bumps are things you will probably encounter while driving. To keep misalignment from causing big problems, try to get your wheel alignment checked at least once a year.

3. Respond Quickly to Signs of Trouble

If you want to catch wheel misalignment early, there are a few things you can watch out for. Your car may start pulling to one side. You may find that both turning and driving straight have become more difficult. If you see any of these signs, go in for a check and alignment as quickly as possible.

Keeping your wheels aligned may help your tires last longer and save you money on fuel. If you are in need of a wheel alignment in Pacific Beach, you can visit this website to learn more.

CV Joints: a Critical Part of Your Vehicle’s Axle Assembly


 

Your vehicle’s CV joints serve as a connection point between its wheels and the transmission. The inner joints connect the drive shafts to the transmission, while the outer joints hook up to the wheels. To keep them in top condition, it’s important to have them regularly checked.

Thursday 16 June 2016

How to Tell Your CV Joints Need to Be Repaired

As part of your vehicle’s axle assembly, CV joints help deliver torque from its transmission to its wheels. This joint is designed to rotate the wheels consistently, and its sturdy construction prevents excess heat and friction during operation. While it’s not unusual for these components to last a very long time, they can become damaged and cause significant handling problems. Look for these common signs that your CV joints need to be repaired.

1. Grease Around Your Tires

The CV joint contains grease, and is sealed inside the part by an outer boot. Cracking or tearing of the boot leads to leaking lubricant, which is commonly found on the inside rims of your tires.

2. Unusual Noises While Driving

If you hear loud clicking while turning your vehicle, this is another sign that the CV joint is failing to lubricate. Once the outer boot has ruptured, grease leaks out and dirt can easily penetrate the component.

3. Vibrating

Vibrating is also an indicator of a damaged CV joint. Lack of grease inside the joint causes it to wear out more rapidly. If not taken care of right away, your entire axle assembly may need replacement.

If not corrected right away, faulty CV joints will eventually ground your vehicle. Catching the problem early will save you more expensive repairs later down the road. Visit this website to learn more about CV joint repair in La Jolla.

Important Things to do After a Car Accident



If you have ever been in a car accident, you know how shocking it can be. Itrattles your sense of safety and causes damage to your car. It’s important to stay calm and keep some things in mind after a car accident.

1.       Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

The first thing to do is to ensure that everyone in all vehicles are safe and uninjured. If anyone is unconscious or cannot move, it is imperative to wait for the police and EMTs to arrive and not to move them yourself.

2.       Assess the Situation and Damages

Once you have taken care of everyone’s safety, be sure to take photos of your vehicle and talk to any witnesses who may be able to help. Be sure to also get the names and information of the other drivers involved in the crash.

3.       After the Crash

After the crash, you should contact your insurance company immediately. File any necessary reports and contact insurance companies of other drivers. Once your insurance company has approved it, get your vehicle repaired by professionals so you do not have to be off the road longer than necessary.

Car accidents are a traumatic and unsettling experience. By remaining calm after an accident, you can get your life back to normal as soon as possible. Visit this website to learn more about auto dent repair in Raleigh after a car accident.

Chip Foose and KC Mathieu Demonstrate Dueling Spray Guns at BASF Automotive Refinish Open House

Chris Toomey, BASF senior vice president, Coatings Solutions North America, welcomed guests and hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony....Read more

3 Reasons You Should Replace Your Windshield

It happens more frequently than you think. You’re riding along the highway and suddenly, you hear something hit the windshield of your car. Unlike other taps on the windshield, this one happens to penetrate the outer portion of the windshield and now you have a crack. While it’s inconvenient, it is essential to replace your windshield for 3 critical reasons.
  • Visibility. A cracked windshield can impair your visibility. Cracks can eventually elongate and spider web. Visibility can also be impaired because the crack can actually create a separate glare which can also impair not only your visibility, but also that of other drivers.

  • Legality. In many states, it is illegal to ride around with a cracked windshield. Every time you get on the road with a cracked windshield, you run the risk of being pulled over. While some officers will merely issue a repair order citation, fines can be hundreds of dollars. With repair citations, you have a certain amount of time to complete the repair before getting a fine.

  • Safety. A windshield is an essential part of the structural integrity of the car. When there is a crack in the windshield, it is more likely to pop out during vehicle operation. When this happens, the actual roof of a car can collapse.
You should never play with the safety of the car. If you get a crack in the windshield, you should get it replaced immediately. For car windshield repair in Garner, visit this website.

What to Do After a Car Accident



Every driver hopes to avoid getting in a car wreck or fender bender. If you drive for long enough, however, you are very likely to experience an automobile accident at some point. Here are four important things to do in the aftermath.

1. Get to Safety

Immediately after the accident, your first priority should be to get yourself, your vehicle and any passengers to safety. If your car is still in the road, try to steer it safely out of the path of any other vehicles without leaving the scene.

2. Call Police

You should immediately call police after your accident. They will let you know how best to proceed, and will send emergency responders to assist if anyone has been injured.

3. Exchange Information

If there is another driver involved in your accident, you will need to exchange information. Write down all pertinent personal contact details such as names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. You should also exchange insurance information. Additionally, try to take photos of the scene if possible.

4. Seek Repairs

If your car is not totaled, it will likely need repairs to its body and paint. Contact your insurance company and find an auto body repair shop that will work with you to restore your car so you can get back on the road.

Have you experienced a wreck that has left you in need of repairs? If so, visit this website to find car accident repair in Garner.

Don’t Despair, Get Proper Collision Repair


 

If you’ve been involved in a dangerous car accident, you may think your vehicle is beyond repair. Don’t despair just yet, as an experienced auto body repair specialist may be able to help you restore your car.

Wednesday 15 June 2016

The Benefits of Paintless Dent Removal



Nobody enjoys finding a dent in their vehicle, it can tarnish the appearance of an otherwise beautiful car. But if you do find yourself in this situation, you can make your life easier and choose to repair dents without repainting your vehicle.

1.       Cost Effective Option.

Fixing a dent without removing the paint is more cost efficient that traditional methods. There are fewer steps involved with this kind of repair as well as fewer tools required. Additionally, other methods are more likely to cause damage to the paint, which could cost you more in the long run.

2.       A Time saver.

Many people prefer this method for repairing dents because it is quicker than the traditional method. Dents on a vehicle can usually be repaired within a few hours, which allows you to get back to your life faster.

3.       Better Quality for Your Car.

If you choose the paintless method for restoring your car, you will get a result that will be the most similar to your original vehicle. This is because the least amount of work is being done to the body of your vehicle.

Unfortunately, accidents and dents are inevitable. But you can restore your vehicle in a cost efficient and quick way. Visit this website to learn more about paintless dent removal in Clayton.

How Car Refinishing Can Help Your Vehicle Last Longer



You may have considered refinishing your car simply for aesthetic purposes, as your car will look newer. But there is another reason to consider doing it. It can also protect the exterior of your vehicle and help it last longer. 

Prevent Chipping and Scratches

As most things, cars take a lot of damage over time. This is evident in the scratches and chips that can be seen on older cars. By covering the coat of paint on your car, you can help it last for more years.

Protect from Debris on the Road

Unfortunately, all kinds of things are kicked up from the road. It is full of small rocks or even hazardous liquids that can be detrimental to the exterior of your car. Refinishing a vehicle will provide the extra protective layer your vehicle needs.

Protect Your Car from Exposure

Refinishing your car can help prevent it from fading or erosion. Elements like dirt, road salt, rain and sunshine can cause damage to your car. They can cause color to fade or even cause your car to rust. An extra layer will provide appropriate protection from these elements.

Refinishing your vehicle can help it regain some of the beauty it may have lost over time. But it can also help it retain its attractiveness for longer. To find out more about car refinishing in Clayton, visit this website.