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.

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

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.

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.

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Why You Should Never Use Dish Soap to Hand Wash a Luxury Car

Posted on November 29, 2021 by Autohaus

Your luxury vehicle is an important asset. Not only is it an investment, but it is a special interest piece in your life. For these reasons, your top priority for your luxury vehicle should be to keep it in pristine condition for as long as possible. Regular maintenance and cleaning are two of the most effective approaches for achieving this collective auto enthusiast goal.

For many luxury brand car owners, hand washing is the only way to go when it comes to a car wash. Automatic car washes, even ones that advertising to be “touchless” can cause structural and aesthetic damages to luxury vehicles, especially low profile cars like Porches and Lamborghinis. So, if you opt to wash your car manually, you are making a safe choice. That is, so long as you do not use dishwashing detergent, even a mild one.

Continue reading to learn why using dish soap to wash a luxury car is a bad idea, and what to use in place of store-bought detergents.

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The Dangers of Dish Soap Car Washing

There are many reasons why you should never use dishwashing detergent or liquid dish soaps to hand wash your luxury car. Not only can they remove your precious and vital automotive wax and clear coat, but they can also weaken automotive paint UV-resistance, cause rust formation, fog up headlights, pollute the environment, and even pose certain health risks.

Using Dish Soap on a Car Can…

► Remove Car Wax

Most dish soaps, even mild formulas, contain harsh ingredients designed to eliminate grease. So, they can easily strip automotive wax after just one application. Overtime, repeated use of dish soap on a luxury car can remove the layer of wax and clear coat, and eventually lead to paint damage.

► Reduce UV Protection

Repeated use of dish soap to wash a car can negatively impact the automotive paint’s ability to resist damaging UV light. As a result, paint will fade, peel, and crack. It also makes your cabin a lot hotter in the warmer seasons of the year.

► Lead to Rust Formation

Oxidation is a common consequence of using dish soap to wash cars. Oxidation is rust, and it forms due to a combination of sunlight, moisture, and oxygen exposure. When automotive wax and paint are jeopardized or in poor condition, dish soap applications can quickly lead to rust formation.

► Cause Foggy Headlights

Dish soap can cause your car’s headlights to fog up because of the suds produced during the cleansing process. Soap residues will buildup on the surface of the headlights overtime, causing a hazy, cloudy appearance that is not easily reversed.

► Pollute the Environment

Most dish detergents are not safe for the surrounding environment. Even mild solutions contain man-made chemicals and stringent ingredients that can be harmful to plant life, wildlife, and the atmosphere. Soapy water runoff can enter the local sewer systems and storm drains, which can lead to further pollution to our underground water tables, ponds, oceans, lakes, streams, and more.

► Threaten Your Health

Believe it or not, using dish soap to wash your beloved car on a regular basis can be bad for your health. Detergents, as mentioned, contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that can be toxic to the environment. Well, they are just as toxic to our health. Ingredients like DMDM Hydantoin, formaldehyde, and sulfuric acid are common in dish soap, and proven to be harmful.

What to Use Instead of Dish Soap

Always use a detergent that is specially designed for car washing. You can buy these products at any local department store, auto parts store, or online retailer. Make sure the detergent is compatible with your particular car wax and paint.

Are you looking for specialized auto repair for your luxury European vehicle? 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.

How to Make Your BMW More Eco-Friendly

Posted on October 28, 2021 by Autohaus

If you modified your lifestyle habits to be more environmentally-friendly a long time ago, you will certainly appreciate the idea of going green with your BMW! Continue reading to learn how you can make your cherished BMW more Eco-friendly and which European auto shop to trust for superior factory-trained service in Indianapolis.

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Going Green With Your BMW

You can protect the surrounding environment with mindful changes with your BMW car or SUV. Not only can these greener habits and objectives help you support environmental preservation and protection, but it will also save you some cash! Here are the top ways you can be greener, which in turn can make your BMW Eco-friendlier:

Stay Current on All BMW Maintenance

Routine maintenance is one of the most important elements of car care. There is a good reason why the manufacturer recommends a variety of scheduled services for your BMW. So, trust in the mechanical engineers and automakers when they tell you to you get an oil change, change your brake pads, or tune up your engine. With routine BMW maintenance, you can ensure your Bimmer is in tip-top shape, which allows it to perform at optimal levels of efficiency. Not only is this better on the environment, but it also saves you on fuel costs.

Practice Safe Automotive Fuel Disposal

Automotive fluids are toxic to the environment, and therefore, should be disposed of responsibly. If you would like to go green with your BMW, be sure you are getting rid of oil coolant, motor oil, and gasoline according to local and state regulations. Check with your county to see designated spots for chemical disposal, then be one step closer to greener driving!

Recycle Your Old Tires

Almost everything within a vehicle is recyclable, including the tires. And rubber is an important commodity that should be recycled at every chance you get. Mining for new ores generates a lot of pollution and uses massive amounts of resources. You can help reduce mining needs and support the preservation of our natural resources by always recycling your old tires before buying new ones.

Drive a Reduced Speeds

Sure, your BMW is sporty and fast, but that doesn’t mean you have to drive it like you are on a racetrack. By slowing down a bit, you can reduce your fuel consumption, which can have a positive trickle effect on preserving our natural resources and reducing our carbon footprint.

Take Stuff Out of the Trunk

A heavier car uses more fuel, which in turn drives up the demand for gasoline, and with it, prices. Higher fuel demands mean exhausting more and more resources that could otherwise be preserved. When you take extra stuff out of the trunk, you can lighten your BMW’s load and support this Eco-friendly initiate. It is recommended to keep emergency roadside items in there, like spare tires and kits.

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

How to Make Your Audi Last More Than 300,000 Miles

Posted on October 18, 2021 by Autohaus

Audi drivers love their vehicles, and they want to keep them in top condition for as long as possible. As a first time Audi owner yourself, it is important to start out with good car care habits before you make any mistakes that can impact or reduce the lifespan of your luxury ride. So, be sure to educate yourself on industry best practices for Audi maintenance and implement them according to manufacturer’s instructions. With good care, you can keep your Audi in great shape, and therefore, in the family for many years.

Continue reading to learn how to make your Audi last more than 300,000 miles, as well as who to trust in Carmel, Indiana for top-rated European auto repair and service.

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Audi Maintenance and Care

Audi’s are designed to last for a long time, as they are top luxury cars manufactured with superior materials and parts. But that’s not to say that Audi’s can run into some performance issues and safety concerns. Without proper care and maintenance, your Audi can suffer internal damages and pose several safety threats to you and your passengers, and others on the road.

It is important to stay current on all Audi maintenance and repair as recommended by the manufacturer’s instructions. You can refer to the owner’s manual for these manufacturer recommendations for factory scheduled maintenance, or you can download a copy online. You can also contact your local European auto repair shop for answers to your Audi questions.

Reaching a Six-Figure Milestone With Your Audi

If you want to keep your Audi in the family long enough for your kid to enjoy it as their first vehicle, you must set out with a viable automotive maintenance plan. To ensure that your Audi safely makes it to 300,000 miles and beyond, focus on these critical European auto maintenance recommendations:

Stay Current on All Factory Scheduled Maintenance

As mentioned, it is important to follow all factory scheduled maintenance for your Audi. If you do not have an owner’s manual, you can download a copy online or contact your local European automotive shop for recommendations on Audi maintenance schedule. Staying current with all scheduled maintenance is comparable to taking care of your own body to live a long life. This is one of the most effective and critical elements to increasing the life of your Audi.

Use an Independent European Auto Repair Shop

You shouldn’t trust just anyone with your Audi. It is important to choose a factory-trained European automotive mechanic who specializes in European and German automotive services. Furthermore, steer clear of national chains. These types of auto repair companies cannot give you personalized and authentic service. Instead, look for an independently owned and operated European auto repair shop in Indianapolis.

Do Not Use Cheap Auto Parts

At some point, your Audi will require some parts replacements. When this time comes, it is very important that you choose top-quality, compatible auto parts. Stay away from buying cheap auto parts, as they will significantly reduce the lifespan of your Audi. Furthermore, be sure to procure your replacement Audi auto parts from a specialized European automotive parts dealer in Indianapolis.

Not sure which Indianapolis mechanic to trust with your Audi? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for Audi r e pair and factory car maintenance in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory-trained mechanics with decades of experience specializing in European automotive service and repair.

Recommended Car Maintenance for Fall

Posted on September 30, 2021 by Autohaus

Fall has begun, and likely so has some of your favorite seasonal activities and indulgences. But don’t let all the fun Autumn festivities distract you from your season-to-season scheduled car maintenance duties. Continue reading to learn the recommended car maintenance checklist for Fall, and who to trust for superior European auto service in Indianapolis.

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Fall Season Car Care Checklist

Heating and Air Conditioning System

Now that the temperatures are slowly dropping, it is important to ensure that your heating system is on point and ready to deliver a cozy indoor environment for your vehicle. In preparation for the increasingly chilly Fall weather, be sure to have your automotive heating and air conditioning system inspected and serviced by a licensed mechanic in Carmel, Indiana.

Tires

Proper tire inflation is vital for safe driving through the fall season. Colder climates can also cause tires to lose air pressure, making it important to routinely check your tire pressure. Before fall turns into winter, be sure to have your tire serviced by a licensed mechanic. Have your tires changed at the tread is low and have them rotated and balanced for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Car Battery

Car batteries are known to encounter problems as the outdoor temperatures drop for the Autumn season. Be sure that your automotive battery is an optimal condition. Also, be sure that your vehicle is equipped with jumper cables and additional emergency roadside assistance supplies in the case of your car battery dies while out on the road.

Automotive Fluids

All vehicles, regardless of make or model, require 7 vital automotive fluids. These include transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, radiator fluid (also known as coolant or antifreeze), battery fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and of course motor oil. Bring your vehicle into your local Carmel Indiana auto shop to have all fluids topped off and refilled as needed.

You might want to also consider keeping an extra bottle of coolant and motor oil in the trunk in the case of an overheating car engine. Depending on the type of battery you have, you may not require battery fluid. Sometimes battery cells are required to be topped off with water. This is more common in older vehicles.

Headlights

Before the foggy and hazy fall and winter days approach, be sure your headlights are cleaned up and shining bright for optimal road safety and driving control. Be sure to have any lamps changed if any of your headlights or taillights are burnt out.

Windshield Wipers

Not only do you want to ensure that your when should wiper fluid is topped off and ready for the fall season, but you also want to ensure that your windshield wipers are in good condition. It is important to switch at you when chilled wipers annually to ensure optimal performance and water runoff clearance. You need to prepare for flurries and snowstorms, even in the Fall.

Do you own a European vehicle that requires some routine car maintenance in Indianapolis? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for superior factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

When Do I Need to Change the Fluids in My Car?
Factory Recommended Maintenance for Car Brakes
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

Why You Should Recycle Your Car Battery Instead of Throwing it Out

Posted on September 15, 2021 by Autohaus

Every car’s battery will eventually need to be replaced. Most people take their cars into a certified auto shop and have them removed and replaced by a professional, while others are able to change their car battery themselves. Either way, it is crucial that the battery is disposed of properly, or even better, recycled.

Continue below to learn why it is vital that you practice safe and lawful car battery disposal, and how to recycle them near you.

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Safe and Responsible Car Battery Disposal

Car batteries cannot just be thrown away in the trash like the rest of our garbage. The disposal of car batteries should be taken very seriously. This is because an average 12 volt car battery contains heavy metals, harmful chemicals, and hazardous materials. These toxins can jeopardize the safety of animal, plant, and human health. Water pollution and soil contamination are just a few serious consequences of improper battery disposal.

Always be sure to look up the proper ways to dispose of car batteries in your neighborhood or consult a professional for assistance. If you are disposing of a car battery on your own, be sure to know how to safely handle one. Always wear gloves and safety goggles, and make sure the battery is always facing up when stored or transported.

Benefits of Recycling Car Batteries

Car batteries should always be recycled, even if they are depleted. Car batteries are still useful in their after-life because they contain reusable materials that can be easily recycled into new car batteries. Materials such as lead, plastic, and battery acid can all be reused for alternative parts and new car batteries.

It can be easy to recycle your car battery, as many recycling centers will simply accept your old battery without notice or fees. Also, most Carmel, IN auto mechanics will recycle your old car battery for you if you have the new one installed at their auto repair shop. There is also a program that runs throughout the United States and Canada called the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC). It allows businesses and people to recycle their car batteries for free.

Would you like more information about safely recycling old auto parts in Indianapolis? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for trusted mechanic advice and assistance with auto electrical repair in Carmel, Indiana. We also sell refurbished used auto parts for European cars.

You Might Also Read:

When Do I Need to Change the Fluids in My Car?
Car Care Tips for Import Vehicles
How to Change Your Car Oil and Air Filters

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FAQS About Car Engine Flushes

Posted on August 31, 2021 by Autohaus

Your car is an important asset, which is why routine automotive service is so vital to your vehicle’s overall safety, dependability, and longevity. As the heart of your vehicle, the motor is connected to all mechanical functions, and requires a strict standard of care to ensure optimal efficiency. One recommended service that is often overlooked by vehicle owners is car engine flushing. Have you every considered having your vehicle’s engine flushed? Not sure what an engine flush does?

Continue reading to review some frequently asked questions about car engine flushes, including where to get first-class automotive service for European vehicles in Indianapolis.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Engine Flushing

What is an Engine Flush?

An engine flush is a service that clears unwanted buildup within the inner workings and terminals of a vehicle’s motor. The process begins by removing the old motor oil. Then, specially-formulated chemicals are poured into the engine, which is left to idle for a few minutes while the cleaning solutions distribute through all areas. Afterwards, the cleaning agents are drained from the motor and new, clean oil is poured back in.

Should I Get an Engine Flush for My Car?

Many auto manufacturers suggest that engine flushes are NOT a good idea for modern vehicles because they are already designed and equipped with resistant mechanical parts that are not prone to deposit formation. In fact, an engine flush can damage newer model cars. Older cars on the other hand may benefit greatly from an engine flush.

Can I Flush My Own Car Engine?

Although it is possible to flush your car engine yourself, it is not recommended. Engine flushing should be administered by a certified mechanic or auto technician. Many things can go wrong, from using the improper chemical solutions to sustaining injuries and much more. Unless you are well-versed in automotive maintenance and have flushed your car engine before, it is strongly encouraged to have it done by a licensed and insured professional.

What are the Benefits of a Car Engine Flush?

There are many benefits to keeping your car engine clean. But the most noteworthy advantages include the removal of old deposits and buildup, keep your fresh motor oil cleaner for longer, giving your engine a fresh slate, clean the deposits that are missed by the filters, and giving your engine parts a good cleaning.

Can Engine Flushing Improve Fuel Efficiency?

There should not be any notable difference in fuel efficiency or gas mileage after having your engine flushed. The best way to ensure optimal fuel efficiency is through factory scheduled maintenance, good driving habits, and quality tires.

How Often Do I Need to Flush My Car Engine?

If your older car is a good candidate for an engine flush, you should only need one. For instance, if you are planning to sell or hand down an old car, you may want to flush the engine first. From there, good auto care will keep your engine in good condition and abate gunk buildup.

Are you looking for professional automotive service for your European car? 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.

You Should Also Read:

When Should I Change the Coolant in My Car?
Fundamental Tips for Cleaning a Car Engine
Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously