Why an Independent Auto Repair Shop is Best for European Cars

Posted on May 17, 2022 by Autohaus

Are you the proud owner of an Audi or BMW? Are you in the market for a new or used Volkswagen? Perhaps you are preparing to gift your spouse with a Mercedes Benz for your anniversary? In either case, it is important that you outsource the best automotive mechanics for your European car maintenance and repair needs.

European make and model vehicles require a unique genre of automotive repair and service, making it valuable to choose a professional who specializes in British and German vehicles. But you don’t want to choose just any European automotive repair shop, especially not a dealership mechanic. You can benefit greatly, and in many ways, by choosing an independent auto repair shop for European car repair and service.

Continue reading to learn independent auto repair shop is the best option for European car maintenance and repair, plus which German automotive mechanic to choose in Carmel, Indiana for dealership-level work at an affordable price.

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Why Choose an Independent Automotive Repair Garage?

Optimal Technical Training

An independent automotive repair garage that specializes in European vehicles typically employs a staff of mechanics who have formal training in European automotive mechanical sciences. Not only do they have specialized knowledge and training in import automotive service and mechanics, but they also stay current on all the evolving technologies and automotive features used by today’s European automakers.

Good Relationships

When using an independent automotive repair shop for your European car repair and service needs, you can expect to build a personalized, one-on-one relationship with your mechanic who, in turn, will get to know the ins and outs of your vehicle. Not only does this provide you with comfort in knowing that you are an important customer, but it gives you confidence in their ability to meet your automotive service and repair expectations.

Dealership Level Service at Neighborhood Prices

Perhaps one of the most revered advantages of choosing independent automotive repair over mainstream or dealership service is cost savings. Independent automotive repair shops are typically lower in price, offering more economical rates for their services and labor. Because they are specialized and formally trained mechanics, you still get dealership level service, but you pay a fraction of the price that you would normally pay at a dealership.

Satisfaction Guarantees and Warranties

Another wonderful benefit of choosing an independent auto repair shop for European automotive service is the guarantee of good work. Most independent automotive repair shops that service European vehicles offer some kind of “satisfaction guarantee” and/or short-term warranties for their work.

Are you looking for an independent factory-trained mechanic for your BMW or European car? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

6 Mercedes Benz Auto Parts That Commonly Breakdown

Posted on April 21, 2022 by Autohaus

Mercedes Benz is a luxury car brand that is definitely worth the investment. They are excellent in safety and performance ratings, and last many years with good care. However, like all automakers, Mercedes isn’t perfect. Whether you are shopping around for a Mercedes Benz, have recently purchased your very first one, or have owned yours for a handful of years already, there are some car maintenance concerns and malfunctions you should know about that may come around as the vehicle gets older. Knowing these common and likely automotive issues can help you develop an improved car maintenance plan and spot problems early on.

Scroll down to learn the top 6 Mercedes Benz auto parts that are known to breakdown as the car ages, plus who to trust in Carmel, Indiana for dealer-level European auto service at neighborhood prices.

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Mercedes Benz Auto Care and Repair

It is a common industry matter for certain make and model vehicles to have their own unique malfunctions or mechanical problems, especially as they age. As for an aging Mercedes Benz, there are 6 particular systems or areas that seem to be the faultiest. These include the tires, catalytic converter, suspension system, ignition system, transmission wire harness, and engine mounts.

Mercedes Tires

Mercedes Benz automakers cannot necessarily be blamed for tire problems, as all tires wear out and eventually lose tread. With your Mercedes, watch out for premature tread wear. As sporty cars, Mercedes are designed to grip the road tighter, which is the same job as tire tread. This combination of road traction can cause the tires to wear out faster than other vehicles. Do the penny tire tread trick to see of your car tires are still in good condition. Stick a penny inside the tire groove, Lincoln head upright. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it means the tread is low and it is time to replace your vehicle’s tires.

Mercedes Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is another auto part that tends to have problems. Catalytic converters are important because the eliminate the harmful and toxic pollutants in exhaust emissions. Typical signs of a Mercedes catalytic converter malfunction include a significant increase in smoke generation from the exhaust and repetitive misfiring. In the best case scenario, the catalytic converter is just clogged and needs a little auto service. But in worst case scenarios, the part must be replaced, and although expensive, is generally covered by insurance.

Mercedes Suspension System

It is a common matter for a Mercedes to experience breakdowns within the suspension system. From the ball joints of the steering system to premature tire tread loss, many things can go wrong within a Mercedes Benz suspension system. As the vehicle ages, the parts that make up the suspension system begin to wear down. Although this happens to all cars at some point, it seems as though it appears sooner in Mercedes Benz vehicles.

Mercedes Ignition System

The Mercedes Benz brand is also known to have problems with the ignition system as the vehicles get older. Most often, the culprit behind this premature mechanical breakdown is spark plug wear and tear. The telltale sign of an ignition system problem is engine misfiring.

Mercedes Transmission Wire Harness

The transmission wiring harness in Mercedes Benz vehicles are especially susceptible to transmission fluid leaks. This is bad news because transmission fluid will damage other mechanisms within the system, even computerized components.

Mercedes Engine Mounts

Mercedes Benz liquid-filled engine mounts are prone to mechanical issues. The most common sign of a faulty engine mount is rough and bumpy idling that you can feel through the steering wheel or car seat. It is as if the engine is excessively vibrating. This is an issue that requires immediate attention because it can quickly cause mechanical breakdowns in other systems within the engine.

Are you looking for trusted European mechanics in your area? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for Mercedes service and repair in Carmel, Indiana. Our German mechanics are factory-trained with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive service industry.

Top 3 Things You Need to Know About Your Car Battery

Posted on April 5, 2022 by Autohaus

Virtually all automotive parts and components within your vehicle are critical to its overall performance and safety. Your car battery is one of those essential automotive parts, making it a priority in terms of routine maintenance and care. Continue reading to learn the top three things you need to know about your car battery in order to ensure, durability, longevity, and performance.

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Responsible Car Battery Maintenance and Care

Being a responsible vehicle owner means practicing responsible and consistent car battery maintenance and care. Not only should you know how long your car battery is expected to last, but you should also know how to jump start a dead car battery and how to conscientiously recycle a used car battery.

Car Battery Lifespan

Most automotive batteries are designed to last anywhere between three and five years. However, there are many factors and conditions that can cause a car battery to expend its power earlier or later. If you are someone who drives frequently, but only in short trips and distances, you might be running out your car battery faster than a person who drives less often and farther distances. That is because your car battery uses a lot of power every time you turn over the ignition and does not have enough time to fully recharge itself during the short drive. If your car starts to experience electrical shortages or malfunctions, like dimming lights or stalling, it could be a sign that you need to replace the car battery.

Car Battery Jump Starts

As a driver, it is wise to take the initiative to learn how to jump start a car battery. For the most specific instructions for your make and model vehicle, refer to your owners’ manual to learn how to jump start your dead car battery. Furthermore, consider keeping a set of jumper cables in your trunk in case your car battery dies while you are away from home. If you cannot fit jumper cables in your car, no need to worry. Most people have some, so just ask if you ever need a jump start. After all, you will need a second, operational vehicle to jump start a dead car battery.

Car Battery Recycling

Car batteries contain a large amount of hazardous chemicals, and toxic materials, and therefore should be disposed of responsibly and safely. Recycling car battery in your community is the most responsible way to dispose of a used car battery. Contact a local scrapyard or matter recycling center to see if they accept car batteries, because some facilities do not. You can also check with your local automotive shop, as they often accept used car batteries for disposal, but you may have to pay a fee for this.

Are you looking for superior automotive service for a European and German brand vehicle near Carmel, Indiana? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

Top 4 Car Maintenance Services That Keep You Safe

Posted on March 23, 2022 by Autohaus

From the very first time you were handed those car keys, safety has been the number one lesson of driving. As a mature and experienced driver today, you are just as committed to safe driving as you were back in drivers’ education program. That is why you take very good care of your ride. After all, routine car maintenance is the ultimate foundation of safe driving.

It is important to refer the owners’ manual or your trusted mechanic for information on your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Yet, of all the car maintenance services to outsource from your local auto shop, be sure these 4 always make your list of priorities if you want to stay safe on the road.

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Car Maintenance For Driving Safety

Car maintenance is important because it keeps your vehicle running smoothly, performing efficiently, and functioning as expected. It can also keep you legal on the road. There are many types of car maintenance services you should be adding to your routine car care program, but of all the ones to choose, these four will contribute the most to your safety:

❶ Car Brakes

Without the ability to stop your car on demand, you are essentially an uncontrollable 5,000 pound missile out on the road. For this reason and more, routine car brake maintenance is the most critical services to outsource for your driving safety. Routine car brake maintenance includes changing outworn breaks as soon as you notice the signs of brake failure, as well as regular replacements of brake pads and brake rotors. Brake fluid is a vital automotive fluid that should also be replaced as needed. Refer to your car owners’ manual for information on when to change your brake fluid.

❷ Exterior Lights

If your night driver, the exterior lights of your vehicle are your first line of defense against anything obstructing your path of driving. Prioritize exterior car light maintenance to ensure your driving safety during nighttime trips. Exterior car lights include headlights (including high beams), taillights, turn signals, reverse lights, and hazards. If your car has some, it is important to ensure that your fog lights are always functional as well.

❸ Windshield Wiper Fluid

Regardless of season or time of year, when should wiper fluid is a vital automotive fluid to have at all times. In fact, you should always keep an extra bottle of it in your trunk. Our line of sight while driving is critical. After all, you can drive a car if you can’t see. Along with exterior lighting, your windshield wiper fluid can play a vital role in your driving safety if your windshield is suddenly splattered with bird droppings, rain, mud, dirt, or any other obstruction is blocking your view.

❹ Additional Automotive Fluids

In addition to you when should wiper fluid, there are several other automotive fluids that are vital for the safety and performance of your vehicle. Not only will these liquids keep you safe on the road, but they will also help you maintain your budget when it comes to car maintenance and auto repair expenses. Basically, if you want to save money, take good care of your car by keeping it lubricated and hydrated. The top automotive fluids that every vehicle requires for efficient performance, safety, and protection against damages includes include motor oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, battery fluid, power steering fluid, and in some cases, differential fluid.

Is your vehicle currently experiencing some mechanical malfunctions or performance issues? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and auto service in Carmel, Indiana. We specialize in all make and model European and German vehicles.

European Auto Repair and Service - Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800 — European Auto Repair and Service – Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

The Difference Between Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Posted on March 8, 2022 by Autohaus

Many people use the terms transmission fluid and differential fluid interchangeably, but the two automotive fluids are actually quite different. In fact, knowing the difference is a critical part of good car care. Not sure which fluid your car takes? Always thought they were the same thing? Confused on which fluids your vehicle needs?

Continue reading to learn the difference between transmission fluid and differential fluid, how these fluids work, and more.

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Differential Fluid and Transmission Fluid Are Not the Same

When it comes to differential and transmission fluid, there are many differences, but they all lie under the primary difference that separates the two most distinctively: application. Differential and transmission fluid are two different automotive fluids primarily because they serve two difference functions. One fluid is for vehicles with manual gearboxes and the other for automatic transmission vehicles. Which one is which? Let’s take a closer look.

Differential Fluid

Differential fluid, also known as gear oil, is designed for vehicles with manual gearboxes controlled by a clutch, pedal, and stick shift. Manual gearboxes are designed as a two-shaft system, and although this design gives manual cars more oomph, it produces an enormous amount of heat and friction. Differential fluid helps lubricate the inner moving components, thus supporting a smoother operation and protecting the engine from damage.

Key Attributes of Gear Oil:

▶ Thicker Viscosity
▶ Higher Heat Resistance
▶ High Pressure Resistance

Transmission Fluid

Opposite of differential fluid, transmission fluid is designed to work specifically with automatic transmission vehicles. Because automatic transmissions operate at lower degrees of heat and friction, they require a different level of lubrication. Transmission fluid is designed with unique properties that adequately lubricate the engine and support transfer of power.

Key Attributes of Transmission Fluid:

▶ Thinner/Lower Viscosity
▶ Lower Degree of Heat Resistance
▶ Anti-Foaming Technology

FAQS About Transmission and Differential Fluid:

Can You Use Transmission Fluid in Place of Differential Fluid?

In emergency situations, you can put transmission fluid in your differential, but beware of the lower degree of viscosity compared to differential fluid. Your vehicle will burn through it quickly, so change it out or replace it with the right fluid as soon as possible.

Can I Use Engine Oil Instead of Differential Fluid?

Never, under any circumstances, put engine oil in your differential. This will result in devastating damages to your engine. Engine oil is much different than gear oil, mostly it cannot withstand high pressure. Therefore, engine oil should never be used in place of gear oil.

Will Something Bad Happen if I Use the Wrong Car Fluid?

There are damaging effects of using the wrong fluid in your car. Your vehicle might experience engine overheating, transmission breakdown, and internal engine damage. If you believe you put the wrong -fluid in your car or truck, consult with a licensed mechanic in Carmel, IN right away.

Does your car engine or transmission need some professional attention? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for transmission repair and engine repair service in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in European auto service. Request a free estimate, anytime.

8 Automotive Problems Caused By Cold Weather

Posted on February 21, 2022 by Autohaus

Here in Indiana, the changing seasons and packed all sorts of aspects of our lives. During the winter, even our cars can suffer certain mechanical failures or difficulties. From your car battery and motor oil to your windshield wipers, fuel lines, and even interior cabin LCD screens, cold-weather and freezing temperatures can bring about a long list of automotive challenges. Fortunately, with proper routine maintenance, most of these wintertime vehicular problems can be avoided.

Continue reading to learn the top 8 automotive problems caused by cold weather, how to prevent them, and what you can do to resolve them if they happen to you this season.

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8 Ways the Cold Winter Season Affects Your Car

Windshield Wipers

In temperatures cold enough, windshield wipers can pose all sorts of problems. Windshield wiper fluid can freeze, leaving drivers without a means to rinse their front windshields of slush and dirt brought on by the winter precipitation and climate. Also, the rubber components on windshield wiper blades can freeze or lose moisture. This causes them to turn brittle and break off in pieces. It is recommended to keep an extra set of windshield wiper blades and a bottle of fluid in your vehicle for these kinds of seasonal windshield wiper problems.

LCD Screens

Crystal display LCD screens have the tendency to slow down during the colder winter months. LCD screens become sluggish this time of year because the molecules in the liquid crystals partially freeze. If your screens are delayed, allow your vehicle to heat up for 20 minutes or so. This should help thaw out the liquid crystal displays enough to get them working at a more functional speed again.

Tires

Underinflated tires are a very common automotive problem in the wintertime, and one that you should always be expecting. The cold temperatures because the tire walls to contract, which causes the tire to lose pressure and become underinflated. It is important to routinely check your tire pressure, especially if you are preparing to head on the road for a long trip. Keep handy tire gauge in your car so that you can measure the air in your tires on demand. The recommended PSI for car tires varies depending on the tire brand and the make and model of your vehicle. Talk to your local Carmel Indianapolis mechanic for advice on proper tire inflation for your car or truck.

Car Battery

Dead car batteries are another common wintertime seasonal automotive problem. Like LCD screens and the air inside of car tires, cold or freezing temperatures cause the electrolyte liquid inside of your batteries to freeze or thicken. As a result, a car battery will lose power. Fortunately, solving a dead battery problem is easy. All you need are set of jumper cables and a pal whose vehicle still has engine power. Jump-starting a dead car battery is simple and can be done on your own. You can look up instructions in your owner’s manual or online through a trusted source.

Motor Oil

Like many other things in your vehicle, the motor oil can thicken up significantly in cold winter temperatures. In fact, the colder it gets, the thicker oil becomes. In especially freezing temperatures, namely below 20°F, motor oil can become so thick that the engine oil pump has trouble circulating it through the necessary channels. To help prevent this, switch to a low viscosity motor oil in the winter. This will help reduce the rate at which your motor oil freezes as temperatures drop.

Antifreeze

There is a bit of a pattern when it comes to wintertime automotive problems. Antifreeze, also referred to as coolant, can also be affected by freezing temperatures in cold weather. This is especially true if the water-to-coolant ratios are off in your vehicle. If your coolant ratios are and balanced, it reduces its ability to protect your engine from inclement winter elements. Because 100% antifreeze has a higher freezing point, it is recommended to dilute it with water in the winter. This will help you avoid having any antifreeze problems. You can also buy an automotive tool called a refractometer that will check your coolant’s freezing point. proper care

Fuel Lines

Just like many of the things in your car during the winter, fuel lines can freeze over. Water inside the gas lines can turn icy in extreme cold temperatures, which can clog the fuel pump. Frozen fuel lines are a common wintertime automotive problem, but 100% avoidable with a little preventative maintenance. Professionals recommend keeping your fuel tank half-full during the coldest parts of the season.

Serpentine Belts

In the automotive mechanic industry, the term “snow snake”is used to colloquially describe frozen serpentine belts. Result in complete automotive breakdown. Serpentine belts can freeze over to the point that they snap or break apart, which will result in total automotive breakdown. Generally, this happens to older serpentine belts. So, if your car is fairly new, you may not have to worry about this problem. If your car is a bit older, you can avoid snow snakes by taking your vehicle into your local Carmel IN mechanic for a pre-winter inspection. This will ensure that your serpentine belts are in good shape to come and commit weather conditions.

Does your luxury or European vehicle require winter automotive service? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis. We are German-trained mechanics specializing in European make and model vehicles.

Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs Fuel System Cleaning

Posted on January 31, 2022 by Autohaus

Fuel system cleanings are more important than you might think. Although it is a car maintenance requirement that is often overlooked, now that winter is here, it couldn’t be more significant. Continue reading to learn the top 5 signs that suggest your vehicle is ready for a fuel system cleaning service, plus where to get trusted automotive maintenance work for European and German vehicles in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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How to Tell That You Need Fuel System Cleaning

Decrease fuel system performance can have significant negative impacts, not only on your vehicle and its internal correlated systems, but also on your bank account. So, how do you know when your fuel system is ready for cleaning service? Well, you have to lo although there are many, the top five include a hard-pressed gas pedal, decreased acceleration, power, bumpy or rough idling, engine stalling, and decreased gas mileage.

Top 5 Signs of Decreased Fuel System Performance:

➀ Stiff Gas Pedal
➁ Reduced Acceleration Power
➂ Bumpy Rough Idling
➃ Engine Stall Outs
➄ Poor Gas Mileage

Although these five signs can also be indicative of separate automotive mechanical issues, if your vehicle is exhibiting any of them, it is necessary to bring them into a local Indianapolis auto shop for inspection and service. Failing to resolve a fuel system problem can lead to costly repairs and invasive automotive work. It can also be very dangerous to operate a vehicle that is experiencing any of these symptoms, or similar automotive malfunctions.

Regular Car Maintenance is Essential for Fuel System Protection

It is important to stay on top of factory scheduled maintenance are committed by your vehicle’s manufacturer. You can find these car maintenance guidelines in your owner’s manual, or you can consult with a local and trusted Indianapolis mechanic for personalized car care advice.

What Fuel System Cleaning Service Includes

When you take your car into your local automotive mechanic shop, you can expect fuel cleaning service to be very affordable, generally running anywhere between $50 and $80. With fuel, cleaning service, the mechanic will clean all carbon deposits that might be clogging the throttle body, remove any additional buildup on the components between the throttle body and the engine cylinder, and clean all fuel injectors.

Are you looking for a trusted Carmel, Indiana auto shop for European and German automotive maintenance and repair? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We are German-trained mechanics specializing in European make and model vehicles.

5 Automotive Modifications That Will Increase Horsepower

Posted on January 19, 2022 by Autohaus

As a car owner and driver, you are dedicated to taking good care of your vehicle. From routine maintenance and regular car washes to safe driving habits, adequate insurance coverage, and all the interior cabin gadgets you can find, your job as a responsible driver is fulfilled. But what about power? If you wish there was something you could do to give your car or truck a little more oomph, you are in luck. There are several automotive modifications you can add to your existing ride to increase its horsepower and get to your destinations faster.

Continue below to learn the top 5 ways you can increase your vehicle’s horsepower with after-market modification installations.

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How to Make Your Car Drive Faster

Horsepower is engine power, and therefore, essential when it comes to all sorts of driving needs, like making a green light, driving uphill, or passing someone on the interstate. Whether your car does not come factory-equipped with adequate horsepower, or your vehicle is just older and not as capable as it once was, these 5 mods can increase the oomph of your engine and transmission controls, making your ride faster and peppier:

Cold Air Intake

One of the most common go-to automotive modifications for increasing horsepower is a cold air intake. Cold air is denser, so more of it gets inside the engine cylinders and mixes with the gasoline. More cold air means more combustion, which means a more powerful engine.

Not only will cold air intake increase engine power by as much as 7 HP, but they are also suggested to be the cheapest option. According to CarParts.com, cold air intakes can be as low as $40 or so, depending on factors like retailer, features, and brand.

Cat-Back Exhaust

A cat-back exhaust is not an added car part, but rather, a modification to an existing one. You can give your ride a cat-back exhaust by straightening out the pipes from the catalyst in the exhaust tubing to the rear of the vehicle. This mod is suggested to loosen up the whole muffler system, which in turn increases cold air intake and ultimately, combustion in the engine.

Reflashing

Reflashing is done to a vehicle’s computer system to change the car’s programming. Everything from timing and fuel-air mixture ratios to other related horsepower-enhancing elements can be reconfigured to meet your HP expectations. Keep in mind, this option is reserved for vehicles that are turbocharged or supercharged.

High-Flow Catalyst

It is suggested that combining a high-flow catalyst with a cat0-back exhaust is a sure-fire combination to increase horsepower in a vehicle. High-flow catalysts are innovative aftermarket catalytic converters that catalyzes the exhaust flow at a quicker rate, therefore, supplying more power to the engine. Do not try to remove your catalyst yourself if it is not already broken, as there are local and state laws prohibiting this.

Tires

Modifying your car tires can also increase your vehicle’s horsepower. Consider swapping out your entire set with a shorter set, which might help increase acceleration through aerodynamics. Beware, switching to shorter tires can throw off your speedometer readings. You can also take your vehicle in for regular tire alignments. Straighter tires that all point forward work better together, which can deliver more traction and ultimately, heightened engine response. Lighter tires may also increase horsepower, such as carbon-fiber wheels.

Do you want to improve the performance and efficiency of your luxury German car? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European car service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles.

Am I Covered By Insurance if a Tree Falls on My Car?

Posted on December 29, 2021 by Autohaus

Fallen trees can happen out of nowhere. The next thing you know, your power is out for the next eight hours until the electrical company can repair a telephone pole across the street that was suddenly hit by a large tree. But what if your car is the target of a fallen tree or heavy tree limb? Are you covered by your auto insurance policy?

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about your car insurance policy in the case of a tree falling on top of your car.

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Liability Car Insurance Does Not Cover Tree Damage

Tree damage can cause an extensive amount of repair needs to a vehicle, especially older cars, or rare models whose parts can be obsolete or difficult to track down. Having adequate car insurance coverage in the case of an unexpected fallen tree can be a great asset, whether you need automotive repair or a whole new car.

All states require basic liability insurance coverage for drivers, regardless of the vehicle make or model. A liability car insurance policy helps to cover property damages and bodily injury expenses to another driver and/or their passengers. It does not, however, cover car damages caused by falling objects, in this case, trees or tree limbs.

Additional Car Insurance Coverage

In some states, additional automotive coverage may be required by law, such as uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, gap insurance coverage, and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. In all states, drivers have the option of choosing additional automotive insurance plans, such as comprehensive automotive insurance coverage, rental reimbursement coverage, and new car replacement coverage. All of these automotive insurance policies would help cover damages caused by a falling tree or branch.

Comprehensive Auto Coverage

Comprehensive car insurance is the standard among drivers here in Indiana. Most Hoosiers have comprehensive automotive insurance coverage, which fortunately covers car damages caused by unforeseeable falling objects, like trees and tree limbs. That is because comprehensive car insurance is meant to cover damage to your vehicle that’s caused by incidences other than a car wreck.

In addition to fallen tree damages, comprehensive car insurance policies will generally help pay for theft, vandalism, wildlife tampering, and inclement weather damages such as hail. Comprehensive automotive insurance coverage is an optional upgrade to basic liability coverage for all drivers in Indiana. However, it is required for drivers who are financing or leasing a car.

Coverage Limits and Deductibles

Before making a claim with your car insurance carrier for damages caused by a fallen tree or tree limb, it is important to review your coverage limits and your deductible. Your deductible is the payment you will make out-of-pocket, while your coverage limit is the money funded to you by your insurance carrier.

For instance, if your coverage limit is $20K and your deductible is $500, your car insurance carrier will cover automotive damages up to $20K and you only have to pay $500 for it all. If your car is totaled and you have to buy a new one, you would be required to pay your deductible, plus any money owed beyond the remaining $19,500 that your insurance policy would pay out for car replacement.

Homeowners Insurance and Fallen Trees on Cars

If the tree or tree limb falls on top of your car at home, your homeowners’ insurance policy will not cover your automotive damages. Instead, you would file a claim with your automotive insurance carrier. The only time your homeowners’ insurance policy will pay for automotive damages caused by a fallen tree or tree limb is if your tree on your property falls onto a neighbor’s car or a visitor’s car.

Are you looking for trusted auto repair service that is compatible with your insurance policy? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

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How to ‘Break In’ a Brand New Car

Posted on December 13, 2021 by Autohaus

When you purchase a brand new vehicle, you might hear someone tell you to “break it in, slowly.” But do new cars need to be “broken in?” They aren’t shoes, after all. What does breaking in a new car even entail? How long does it take to break in a new car? Well, in the automotive industry, this is known as conditioning, and it is a good mechanical run-in for new vehicles within the first thousand miles of driving.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about breaking in a new car or truck, and what you can do to ensure that your new ride transitions into a daily driver smoothly.

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Engine Care in the First 500 to 1,000 Miles

Breaking in a new car is known as automotive conditioning, which is essentially a mechanical warm-up recommended for brand new vehicles with little to no miles on them. Really, automotive conditioning is all about the engine rather than the vehicle in its entirety. The break-in period will vary depending on the make and model of a car, but usually, it is suggested to be between the first 500 miles and 1,000 miles. The conditioning period may be extended for vehicles that are not driven as often or with larger-than-standard engines.

Benefits of Auto Conditioning

This conditioning period is good for new cars because it allows the engine to begin the journey of wear and tear, evenly and smoothly. The combination of low and consistent pressure, ambient operating temperatures, and efficient oil flow can ease the engine load as its lifespan begins. All of this can help to reduce mechanical problems within the engine and connected internal parts down the line. Working the engine too hard too soon can affect the piston rings, cylinder walls, and more.

Fortunately, modern automotive manufacturing innovations and technologies have significantly reduced break in periods for most vehicles. However, you can still do your part to protect your new car engine from premature wear down, plus support optimal longevity and performance.

What You Can Do to Break In Your Car

To break in a new car, follow these important auto care tips:

▷ Do not push the engine to the red line. Keep your RMPs well-under the red line.

▷ Extend the break in period if you have a high-performance car.

▷ For manual transmissions, always shift gears before the RMPs reach the red line.

▷ Avoid using cruise control. Allow the engine to experience the flushing of RPM intervals.

▷ Avoid driving very short distances. You want to engine to fully warm up on each drive.

▷ Do not have the car towed unless it is a flatbed rig. Towing can put too much load on the engine, tires, and brakes.

Are you looking for a qualified Indianapolis mechanic for your new European car? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for professional European auto repair and service in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are factory-trained German mechanics who specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen, but work on all European and British cars.