5 Car Maintenance Services That Protect Your Life

Posted on September 26, 2022 by Autohaus

When it comes to driving, whether yourself or your loved ones, safety is always front of mind. There is no better way to ensure optimal safety and performance of your vehicles than responsible auto service and maintenance. Not only should you have your vehicles inspected by a licensed mechanic, according to the automotive manufacturer factory scheduled maintenance recommendations, but you should also know how to visibly inspect and care for your car on your own.

Although all manufacturer recommended auto services and car care best practices should be followed, continue reading to learn the top five auto services that are the most critical to your overall safety.

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5 Safety Focused Auto Services

To protect yourself from danger, out on the road, these five safety focused auto services should be at the top of your routine car maintenance priority list: brake replacement, shocks and struts replacement, exterior light inspections, windshield wiper fluid refills, and car fluid refills.

Car Brake Replacement

Car brakes are not designed to last forever. At some point in time, your vehicle’s car braking system will need either a full replacement or parts replacement. When car brakes wear down, they lose performance value. Since brakes are arguably the most important safety feature of the vehicle, a decline in corporate performance is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. As for parts, brake pads can deteriorate over time, so they need to be changed on a routine basis to ensure optimal braking and friction and performance.

Shocks and Struts Replacement

Shocks and struts generally began to experience wear and tear between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. This is typically a middle-aged vehicle, with struts in the front and shocks in the rear end. If you’re feeling like your car is bouncy when you drive or if it’s sagging on one end, you could have a damaged strut or blown shock. Damaged shocks and struts can pose serious risks out on the road since a car can become less responsive to steering and braking.

Exterior Light Inspections

It is important to routinely check on the exterior lights of your vehicle. This is something that you can do all on your own, or even enlist the kids to do for you. Simply insert your key into the ignition. Clicking it over one time so that your lights turn on. But your engine stays off. Then, while monitoring reflections around you or with the help of a partner, check to see that your turn signals, windshield Wiper, parking lights, headlights, brake lights, and brights are all working. If you ever drive in the evening hours or at night, exterior lights are vital to your overall safety on the road. Even if you are a daytime driver, inclement weather conditions and foggy weather can put you in serious danger. If your exterior lights are not functioning properly.

Windshield Wiper Fluid Refills

On the subject of inclement weather conditions, having a full reservoir of windshield wiper fluid is critical to your visibility, which is critical to your overall ability to operate your vehicle safely. Not only is it important to use a quality windshield wiper fluid, but it is also important to routinely fill it up, especially during times of frequent use. Along with windshield wiper fluid, it is important to replace your actual windshield wipers every year or two. And unlike many other products in life, price does matter. The more expensive the windshield wipers are, the better performance you can expect.

Automotive Fluid Refills

Along with windshield wiper fluid, your vehicle requires six other vital automotive fluids that need to be refilled on a routine basis. These fluids include motor oil, coolant (radiator fluid/antifreeze), brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid (if applicable), and battery fluid (if applicable). Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to check and refill these fluids for your make and model vehicle.

Are you looking for a trusted German factory trained auto mechanic for your luxury or European vehicle? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European car maintenance in Indianapolis, Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles.

Where to Get Trusted Car Repair and Maintenance for European Vehicles in Carmel

Posted on September 19, 2022 by Autohaus

Are you looking for an experienced mechanic in Carmel, Indianapolis for your European or German car? Then you have come to the right place! Autohaus Dierolf has been providing professional auto repair services for BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, and more for nearly 45 years.

As German factory trained mechanics, we have extensive training and knowledge on all classic and modern European vehicles. Our Carmel IN mechanics would be happy to provide you with a free estimate anytime!

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Esteemed Auto Service and Repair in Carmel Indiana

Autohaus Dierolf is an expert-level, full service European auto repair company in Carmel, Indiana. We have been providing Hoosiers high quality auto repair services since 1968. Our trained mechanics have extensive knowledge and experience in all repair and maintenance procedures for any make or model European vehicle. We have car repair technicians that specialize in German automobiles like Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW, and more.

Here at Autohaus Dierolf, we understand the value of your premium European or German car, which is why we only use the best products and parts available on the market. Our German and European automotive services are comprehensive and come at the most competitive prices around. Not only do we offer free written estimates, but we also provide warranties on all our work.

Looking for Used European Auto Parts in Indianapolis?

Autohaus Dierolf offers below market-priced used auto parts for European and German vehicles in Carmel, Indiana. Not sure we have the part you need for your rare luxury vehicle? Well, our family has been collecting used auto parts for all European cars for the last 50 years and is proud to be a supplier of rare and hard-to-locate car parts at a discounted rate. We have an especially impressive selection of Mercedes Benz used parts.

Do you own a European car that needs some maintenance or repair? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for German Factory Trained auto services in Carmel, Indiana. We only use top-of-the-line automotive parts and products to carry out our car maintenance services.

How to Calculate Your Car’s Gas Mileage

Posted on August 4, 2022 by Autohaus

Gas prices will always be at the forefront of our budgets. Fuel costs seem to increase with every turn of the market, regardless of direction. For the sake of your financial goals and money-saving priorities, try calculating your vehicle’s gas mileage to see if you are getting the most out of every gallon. Continue below to learn how you determine your car’s MPG, plus what you can do to improve fuel efficiency from there.

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Gas Mileage 101

The number of miles your car can drive on one gallon of gas is referred to as gas mileage, or miles per gallon (MPG). This is also known as fuel economy. The more miles per gallon your car gets, the more fuel efficient it is.

To achieve the highest level of fuel economy possible for your vehicle, the key is regular maintenance and quality automotive parts and products. The better you care for your car, the better it will perform and the longer it will last.

To understand your vehicle’s routing car maintenance needs, refer to the owners’ manual. If you do not have the owners’ manual, you can download one online for your make and model vehicle, or you can ask a trusted Carmel IN mechanic for a recommended auto maintenance schedule.

Calculating Your Vehicle’s MPG

There are 7 simple steps to calculating your vehicle’s miles per gallon. It will take some time, as well as some basic, elementary-level math. Here’s how to determine a car’s MPG:

➊ Fill Your Tank All the Way – Be sure your gas tank is topped off all the way.

➋ Record the Odometer Reading – Write down the number of miles that reads on your odometer. You may also set your odometer’s trip meter is applicable.

➌ Use Up All Your Gas – Drive your vehicle as you normally would until the gas tank is on E again. This should take a week or so depending on how much and how far you drive on a daily basis.

➍ Record the Odometer Reading AGAIN – Write down the number of miles that shows on your odometer.

➎ Record the Number of Gallons Refueled – Write down how many gallons of gas it took to refuel your tank all the way full.

➏ Do the Math – Subtract the first odometer reading from the second reading. This will tell you how many miles your car drove on one tank of gas.

➐ Do Some More Math – To get your MPG, divide the number of miles you drove by the number of gallons it took to refill your gas tank.

Does Your Car Have Good Fuel Economy?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides us with a fuel economy rating system that evaluates vehicles on a scale from 1 to 10, with lower numbers being worse and higher numbers being better. If your vehicle has an MPG less than 14, you are assigned a rating of 1, while a MPG of 44 or more rates a full 10.

Are you looking for trusted automotive service for your classic or luxury European vehicle? 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.

5 Budget-Friendly Ways to Extend the Life of Your Import Car

Posted on July 14, 2022 by Autohaus

Luxury and import vehicles are not a dime-a-dozen. They are special makes and models, thus requiring a distinct care plan. If you are keen on making your car last much longer than all your previous rides, but not sure you can afford to stay current on all that’s required of you, rest assured that import car maintenance and care can be inexpensive if you know what you’re doing.

Continue below to learn five budget-friendly ways to extend the life of your import or luxury car.

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Cost-Effective Car Maintenance for Luxury Vehicles

It is in everyone’s best interest to keep their vehicles in good working condition for as long as possible. Not only is car maintenance important for the safety, efficiency, and performance of your vehicle, but it is also important for resale or trade-in value. Fortunately, implementing cost-effective car maintenance for a luxury vehicle is a viable endeavor. You just have to know what your car needs and how to get it done.

How to Ensure Your Vehicle Lasts as Long as Possible

Here are the top recommended car maintenance tips to make your luxury or import vehicle last longer than any other car you’ve ever owned:

Follow the Manufacturer’s Service Schedule

In your owner’s manual, you will find a very detailed service schedule for your particular make and model vehicle. By adhering to this manufacturer’s service schedule, you automatically extend the life of your luxury or import vehicle.

Check Your Automotive Fluids Regularly

Every vehicle requires seven essential automotive fluids, including motor oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, radiator fluid (coolant/anti-freeze), battery fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Some cars might even require additional automotive fluids, such as differential fluid. To support a long-lasting life for your vehicle, it is important to regularly check that these automotive fluids are at their proper levels.

Do Not Skip Oil Changes

As just mentioned, automotive fluids are very important to all vehicles. This is especially true when it comes to motor oil, being as though it lubricates the internal moving parts within the engine that create heat and friction. For this reason, oil changes are vital. Many people think they can hold off a little longer or skip out altogether on a routine oil change, but this is a very bad idea. If you want your car to last a very long time, have the oil changed out regularly.

Do Not Ignore Odd Sounds or Vibrations

As the primary driver of your import vehicle, you know it’s performance patterns pretty well. If you begin to notice strange sounds or vibrations happening in idle or while driving, it is important to have them checked out immediately by a Carmel Indiana luxury car mechanic. If this sounds or vibrations are fairly new, it is probably a minor problem. But it is important to get this minor problem resolved before it turns into a major one.

Pay Close Attention to Your Tires

Your car tires are one of the most vital components seeing as though they are the primary point of contact between your car and the ground, making tire care a vital element to any automotive maintenance plan. It is important to pay close attention to your tires, inspecting them periodically for proper inflation. Not only do you want to ensure that your tires have good air pressure, but you also want to look for signs of dry rot or flat spots. These damages can happen to cars that are not driven very often.

Are you wondering which auto mechanic will deliver unparalleled care and service at the most budget-friendly prices in town? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for superior factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

How to Safely Jump Start a Dead Vehicle Battery

Posted on June 21, 2022 by Autohaus

Roadside assistance services are a fantastic convenience for all drivers of all ages, but even more so for adolescents just starting out. Roadside assistance offers services for flat tires, dead batteries, overheating engines, fuel assistance, and more. When your car or truck battery runs out of juice while driving, you can simply contact one of these roadside services for a jump start, or you can facilitate the jump start yourself. All you need is a set of jumper cables and another working vehicle, or perhaps a new battery, and you can restart your car or truck on your own.

Continue reading for the ultimate quick-guide to jump starting a dead car battery!

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Roadside Emergency Equipment and Kits

Emergency roadside assistance kits typically contain items such as jumper cables, road cones, flares, jacks, blankets, cell phones, and more, and can be purchased almost anywhere. It is highly recommended to purchase and carry one of these emergency kits for yourself or your teenage driver. They come in a small, convenient case that can easily fit in the trunk or backseat of any vehicle. Once you have the items you need to jump start a dead car battery, you can rest comfortably knowing you’re prepared. Next, you simply need to review the instructions on how to jump start a battery.

Car Battery Life

Car batteries typically last anywhere from three to five years, depending on the make and model vehicle, the age of the vehicle, and the condition it was kept in. It may also depend in the number of miles driven, overtime. Car batteries run on battery fluid, and this fluid eventually runs out, causing the battery to die. There are other reasons why a car battery can die, too.

Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause a car battery to die, as well as, leaving the lights on for an extended period of time when the car is not in use. Other instances when a car battery might not be functional is when a vehicle has not been driven in a long time. No matter which reason causes your car battery to die, some cases will call for a battery replacement altogether, while others will simply require a quick jump start.

Jump Start Guide:

Position the operational vehicle’s engine close to the dead vehicle’s engine so jumper cables can reach both.

Turn both vehicles off and remove keys from ignition.

Locate the car batteries for each vehicle.

Attach the negative and positive jumper cable clamp to the matching negative and positive sides of each battery (refer to owner’s manual to identify these areas).

Place the red positive clamps on the positive side of each vehicle’s battery and place the black negative clamps on the negative sides of each vehicle’s battery.

Be sure the clamps are secured, and the cables are not touching the engines.

Return the keys to the operational vehicle’s ignition and turn the engine on.

Allow the operational vehicle to run for 5 or 6 minutes.

With the jumper cables still secured, return the keys to the charging vehicle, and turn the engine on; the engine should turn on if the battery is charged enough.

If the engine does not turn over, keep the jumper cables in place and allow the battery to charge for another 5 minutes.

If the engine turns on, still allow the cables to charge the battery a few minutes longer.

If the engine does not start after charging the battery for more than 10 minutes, call a mechanic.

Before removing the jumper cables, turn both engines off (failure to do so will result in serious or fatal electrocutions).

Close the hood because now your battery is charged again!

Would you like some professional advice on luxury and import car battery care? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for trusted assistance with car battery and auto electrical repair in Carmel, Indiana. We also sell refurbished used auto parts for European cars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tire Care

Posted on June 10, 2022 by Autohaus

As the sole point of contact between the road and your vehicle, car tires are arguably one of the most vital automotive systems. Good car owners take good care of their vehicle’s tires, staying current on all tire inspections, measurements, rotations, balances, and replacements. If you are new to the world of automotive maintenance, educate yourself on the importance of routine tire care.

Get started on the right path by reviewing some frequently asked questions about tire care, below.

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FAQ About Tire Maintenance

What Does Tire Care Involve?

Taking good care of your tires involves several routine maintenance responsibilities. Not only should you regularly inspect your tire tread and tire pressure, but you should also have your tires periodically rotated and balanced, especially if you regularly drive off-road or on rough or bumpy terrain.

Additionally, you want to ensure that the tires are compatible with your make and model vehicle. If you have the incorrect size tires, it can have a negative impact on fuel economy, safety, and automotive performance. If you have the wrong type of tires on your vehicle, it can have all sorts of incompatible effects, plus pose safety risks. Refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for tire recommendations.

What is the Proper Tire Tread Depth?

Brand-new tires generally have a tread depth of 10/32 or 11/32 of an inch (about a third of an inch). According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, drivers should replace car tires when the tread depth has receded below 2/32 of an inch. If the tire tread variance between your car tires is greater than 2/32 of an inch, you should have them rotated to even out the tread wear.

How Do I Measure My Tire Tread?

To measure where your tire tread depth is at, all you need is a penny. That’s right; a copper penny! Turn the penny upside down with Lincoln’s head facing out so you can see him. Then stick the penny inside a tire groove. If you can see Lincoln’s entire face, your tire tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch.

What is the Proper Tire Pressure?

Tire pressure plays an important role in your vehicle’s overall safety and performance. Tire pressure is measured in “pounds per square inch” or PSI. Car tires can lose up to 2 PSI of pressure every month. Colder temperatures tend to lower tire pressure, causing under inflation, while higher temperatures tend to cause overinflated tires.

Both underinflated and overinflated tires are unsafe. For this reason, it is important to routinely inspect your tire pressure, including your spare tire. Proper tire pressure varies depending on several factors. It is recommended to use an online tire pressure monitor tool to learn the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. You may also refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

How Do I Measure Tire Pressure?

To measure tire pressure, you will need to purchase a tire pressure gauge. They are inexpensive and readily available at any local auto parts store, department store, or home improvement store. They are also available on any relevant online retailer. This tool will come with manufacturer’s instructions that will teach you how to use it. It is very simple and only takes a couple of seconds to obtain a reading. You can also take your vehicle into the shop for routine tire maintenance, which will include tire tread and pressure measurements, which should include tire pressure and tread service.

Do I Need to Rotate and Balance My Car Tires?

Although you don’t have to, it is recommended to have your car tires rotated and balanced on a routine basis. This will help ensure that all four tires wear down evenly. Most drivers will have their car tires balanced and rotated every 5000 to 7000 miles.

Can Tires Impact Fuel Economy?

Yes, tires can impact fuel economy. Improperly inflated tires will use up more gas in your tank. With proper tire care, you can help maintain good fuel economy in your vehicle. Additionally, you can swap out your current tires for more fuel-efficient tires. These tires are designed to deliver higher tire rolling resistance, which is the force required to get the tires to start moving. Consumer Reports revealed that “The Department of Energy estimates that 4 to 11% of fuel consumption is due to tire rolling resistance.”

Why Does My Car Not Come With a Spare Tire?

If your car does not come with a spare tire, there could be a number of reasons why. Most likely, you purchased your car used and the previous owner did something with it. Or, you have a newer model vehicle. Automakers these days are foregoing the spare tire for all sorts of reasons, mostly for the sake of cost savings and space-saving design.

Do I Need a Spare Tire?

It is highly recommended tire, either at home or in the trunk of your vehicle. Some cars don’t have space for a spare tire, which is why they didn’t come with one of the first place. In this case, you might want to consider run-flat tires or a tire inflation kit. These will help you out in a roadside emergency situation.

Does your luxury import vehicle need some professional tire service? 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.

5 Signs That Suggest Your Car Needs Fuel Pump Replacement

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Autohaus

Fuel pumps last a really long time, but not forever. The average fuel pump will need to be replaced once a vehicle nears the 100,000 mile marker, while some are reported to last closer to 200,000 miles. But malfunctions do happen, causing fuel pumps to go out before their manufactured expiration date.

If you suspect that something is going wrong with your car, it could be a problem with your fuel pump. Continue reading to learn the top 5 signs that suggest your vehicle needs fuel pump replacement, plus where to get trusted fuel system service in Carmel, Indiana for Luxury and European vehicles.

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When a Fuel Pump Goes Out

The fuel pump plays an important role in the overall driveability and operation of a vehicle. Without a properly operating fuel pump, the engine will not get the fuel delivery needed to start. There is a necessary fuel-to-air ratio that must be met in order for the engine to get the power needed fuel the cylinders and fire up the pistons.

Because of the unique role of the fuel pump, the signs are often easy to spot. If you notice any automotive malfunctions or changes in your car’s performance, your car might have a bad fuel pump, in which case, your likely recourse is fuel pump replacement.

Common Signs of a Fuel Pump Problem

Failed Ignition Attempts

Can you get your car to start? If you are experiencing multiple failed attempts when trying to start the car, you should have your fuel pump checked out. Most often, this is due to structural damage of the fuel pump itself, but sometimes, the pump is just clogged. If the car will not turn over at all, fuel pump damage is the likely culprit. If the engine cranks but won’t turn over all the way, you may just be dealing with a clogged fuel pump.

Sputtering and Stalling

If your car is routinely sputtering or stalling while driving, it could be an indication of a failing fuel pump. In most cases, the fuel pump is working at a low pressure, so the engine is not getting the fuel it needs to generate combustion. If the car starts, drives away, but then stalls, it is usually because your fuel pump is not doing its job, and the engine cannot keep the car running.

Rear Bumper Whirring

Backseat noises like whirring or humming can point directly back to the fuel pump. These noises are naturally generated by the operation of the fuel pump, but we usually cannot hear them. When the fuel pump starts to malfunction, it is forced to work harder, which can make the noises get louder.

Engine Surging

Do the engine revolutions randomly surge and swell while you drive? This is a common sign of a faulty fuel pump. Opposite of fuel pump clogs and low pressure, engine surging is caused by a malfunction that sends too much fuel to the cylinders. This often causes the car to suddenly pick up speed and soon after, slow down.

Increased Fuel Consumption

Noticing changes in gas mileage, specifically reduced gas mileage, is a common indication of a fuel system problem. As for the fuel pump, it can be responsible for increased gas consumption when its internal parts and bearings deteriorate or break. Deterioration or damage can cause extra gasoline to be sent to the engine, which goes unused.

Are you looking for trusted fuel pump repair in the Indianapolis areas for your Audi or Volkswagen? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for fuel system repair in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles. We also sell refurbished used auto parts!

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.