How to Winterize Your Car

Posted on December 15, 2022 by Autohaus

Winter is nearly here, bringing with it the challenge of ensuring your vehicle is ready for the cold weather. For starters, tire pressure and tread are critically affected by temperature variations, making it important to ensure all tires are properly inflated and tread depth is sufficient. Additionally, an oil change is also paramount as wintertime can often bring excess strain on motor oil’s ability to protect parts of the engine. But there is a lot more to prepping your ride for the winter climate.

Continue reading to learn how to winterize your car in preparation for the cold ahead.

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What You Need to Know About Winterizing Your Vehicle

Here are some tips on how to winterize your car and make sure it’s ready for the snow and ice:

1. Start With a Car Care Check-Up: A good car care check-up can ensure your car is in top condition for the winter. Have your car serviced regularly, including oil changes and tire rotations, to make sure everything is running smoothly and efficiently.

2. Change Your Tires: Make sure your tires are suitable for winter conditions. If you live in an area with snow and ice, invest in a set of quality winter tires or snow chains to ensure your car has the best grip possible.

3. Check Your Battery: Cold weather can take its toll on car batteries, so make sure yours is up to the task. Have it tested by a professional auto service technician and replace it if necessary.

4. Top Up Fluids: Keep your car running smoothly by topping up oil, coolant, washer fluid, antifreeze, etc. Check your owner’s manual for the correct type of fluids to use in each situation.

5. Have an Emergency Kit Ready: It’s always a good idea to carry an emergency kit with you in case of breakdowns or other problems. Keep things like jumper cables, flashlights, blankets, and snacks in the car at all times.

6. Get Scheduled Auto Service. To truly ensure maximum efficiency during the chilliest of months, a comprehensive vehicle checkup should be scheduled at your preferred repair shop. Taking heed of these basic preventative maintenance steps can go a long way in keeping your car poised for success when winter finally arrives.

These tips can help ensure your car is ready for winter weather conditions. Regular maintenance and car care will go a long way towards keeping you safe and sound during the cold winter months. Don’t forget, it’s always a good idea to read your owner’s manual for specific winter car care tips that may be relevant to your vehicle.

Carmel Indiana Auto Repair and Maintenance

Autohaus Dierolf offers exceptional European and German auto repair and maintenance services in Carmel, Indiana. Our German-factory trained mechanics specialize in servicing all makes and models of European and German vehicles, providing peace of mind knowing that your car is being cared for by knowledgeable professionals. Contact us at 317-571-0800 today and experience the Dierolf Difference! Let us make you a customer for life.

How to Use a Scissor Jack to Change a Tire

Posted on November 3, 2022 by Autohaus

If you’ve ever found yourself stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, you know how frustrating it can be. But changing a tire is actually a pretty simple process, as long as you have the right tools. One of the most important tools you’ll need is a scissor jack. Continue below to learn how to use a compact scissor jack to lift your vehicle high enough off of the ground to change your flat tire out with a spare or new tire.

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What You Need to Change a Flat Tire

Aside from a scissor jack or floor jack, you will need a few other tools to change a damaged tire. These include a lug wrench and sometimes a spare tire. You may also consider equipping your car with some standard roadside emergency supplies, which you can review here.

Let’s take a look tool needed to change a flat tire:

The jack is what lifts up the car so you can remove the flat tire and put on the spare. There are different types of jacks, but most cars come with a scissor jack. A scissor jack is a mechanical device that is used to lift up the body of a vehicle so that you can change a tire. It consists of two handles and a screw mechanism that allows you to raise and lower the jack. You’ll need to find the right spot to place the jack, which should be explained in a diagram in the owner’s manual of the vehicle.

The lug wrench is what you use to remove the lug nuts that hold the flat tire in place. Again, there are different types of lug wrenches, but most cars come with a crowbar-type wrench, also known as a torque wrench. Place the wrench on the lug nut and turn it counterclockwise to loosen. Once it’s loose, you can remove it by hand. Repeat this process for all the lug nuts. Once the lug nuts are removed, you can take off the flat tire by hand. If you don’t have a spare tire, you’ll need to take the flat tire to a nearby service station to get it repaired or replaced.

If you DO have a spare tire, place it on the wheel bolts and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Once all the lug nuts are in place, use the lug wrench to tighten them further. You’ll want to make sure they’re tight enough so that the tire doesn’t come loose while you’re driving, but just don’t over-tighten them. Once the spare tire is in place, lower the car back down to the ground and remove the jack. You can now drive to a service station to have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

Tips for Using a Scissor Car Jack

To use a scissor jack, first locate the jack points on your vehicle. These are typically located near the corners of the vehicle body. Once you’ve found the jack points, place the jack under the vehicle and screw the mechanism until the Jack is tight against the body. Next, use the handles to start lifting the vehicle body.

Once the vehicle is high enough, remove the flat tire and replace it with a new one. Then, lower the jack and remove it from under the vehicle. That’s all there is to it! With a scissor jack, changing a tire is a breeze. Just be sure to check your tires regularly and keep them inflated to the proper pressure to avoid flats in the future.

Are you looking for superior tire, wheel, and brake care for your luxury import vehicle? 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.

The Quickest Way to Check Your Tire Pressure

Posted on October 28, 2022 by Autohaus

Temperatures are dropping, and rising, and dropping again. Quite typical for Indiana climate patterns this time of year. One of the most effected automotive parts during this seasonal transition are tires. And as fall continues and the winter months approach, many drivers begin to worry about how the cold weather will have an effect on their cars. One of the most common questions is, “What happens to my car tires in the cold?”

Continue below to learn exactly what you need to know about the way cold temperatures affect your car tires, plus a guide on how to check your tire pressure.

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Top 5 Ways Cold Weather Affects Car Tires

❶ Cold weather can cause your tires to lose pressure.

As the temperature drops, so does the air pressure in your tires. This can lead to a decrease in performance and fuel efficiency, as well as increased wear and tear on your tires. It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly during the winter months to ensure that it stays at the proper level.

❷ Cold weather can make your tires harder.

The cold weather can make your car tires harder, which can lead to less traction and increased wear. It’s important to check your tires regularly for signs of wear and tear, and to have them replaced when necessary.

❸ Cold weather can reduce the lifespan of your tires.

The cold weather can reduce the lifespan of your tires by causing them to crack and degrade faster. It’s important to inspect your tires regularly for signs of damage, and to have them replaced when necessary.

❹ Cold weather can make it more difficult to change a tire.

If you have a flat tire, the cold weather can make it more difficult to change. It’s important to be prepared for this possibility by having the proper tools and knowledge to change a tire in the cold.

❺ Cold weather can increase the risk of a blowout.

The cold weather can also increase the risk of a tire blowout. This is because the air pressure in your tires is lower in the cold, which makes it more likely for the tire to fail. It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly and to have your tires replaced when necessary.

Conclusion…If you’re concerned about how the cold weather will affect your car tires, be sure to follow these tips. By taking care of your tires, you can help to ensure that they last longer and perform better in the cold.

How to Check Tire Pressure

It is important to check your tire pressure regularly to ensure safe driving conditions and to extend the life of your tires. You can purchase a tire pressure gauge at most auto parts stores. To check your tire pressure, remove the valve cap from each tire and press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem. The gauge will give you a reading of the pressure in your tires. Compare this to the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle, which can be found in your owner’s manual or on a placard located on the driver’s side door jamb or glove box.

If your tires are underinflated, use a portable air compressor or visit a service station to inflate them to the proper pressure. If your tires are overinflated, release some of the air by pressing on the gauge and then removing it from the valve stem.

Check Your Tire Tread Too!

It is also a good idea to check your tire tread regularly. You can do this by inserting a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is less than 2/32nds of an inch and it is time to replace your tires.

Conclusion…Checking your tire pressure and tread regularly will help ensure safe driving conditions and extend the life of your tires.

Are you ready to get your tires, wheels, brake pads, and brake rotors ready for the upcoming season? 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.

Most Common Signs of a Failing Car Radiator

Posted on October 10, 2022 by Autohaus

A car radiator is a type of heat exchanger. It is used to transfer heat from the hot coolant that flows through it, to the air flowing around it. The radiator is made up of a series of metal fins that are connected to each other. The coolant flows through the fins, and the air flowing around the radiator helps to transfer the heat away from the coolant. The radiator is usually located at the front of the car, where it can get good airflow. It is important to keep the radiator clean and unobstructed, so that it can work effectively.

If you suspect that your car radiator is having trouble, you are probably right being as though the signs are hard to miss. Continue below to review some of the most common signs of a failing car radiator, plus how to tell if you need radiator repair or replacement.

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How to Tell if Your Car is Having Radiator Problems

A car radiator is vital to the proper functioning of a vehicle’s engine and helps to keep it cool. Over time, however, radiators can develop problems that can lead to a breakdown. Here are some common signs of radiator problems:

▷ Leaks – One of the most common signs of radiator trouble is leaking coolant. Coolant leaks can be caused by a number of issues, including cracks, holes, or loose fittings.

▷ Overheating – Another sign that your radiator may be failing is if your vehicle’s engine begins to overheat frequently. If the radiator isn’t able to properly cool the engine, it will cause the engine to overheat.

▷ Corrosion – Another sign of radiator problems is corrosion. Corrosion can cause the radiator to leak or become clogged, preventing proper coolant flow.

▷ Strange Noises – If you hear strange noises coming from your vehicle’s engine, it could be a sign that the radiator is failing. These noises may include hissing, bubbling or gurgling sounds.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your car radiator checked by a professional Carmel IN mechanic as soon as possible. Radiator problems can quickly lead to engine damage, so it’s important to nip them in the bud before they cause too much harm.

Radiator Repair and Replacement Costs

The cost of car radiator repair will vary depending on the severity of the damage and the make and model of your vehicle. However, on average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for the repair. If your car radiator is leaking, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your engine. However, if the damage is not severe, you may be able to repair it yourself with a radiator repair kit. These kits can be purchased at most auto parts stores and usually cost between $20 and $50.

If you have a car radiator that needs to be replaced, the cost will be significantly higher. On average, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 for the replacement. The exact cost will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor costs associated with the replacement. However, if you have a high-end car, the cost could be even higher.

Are you the owner of a high-end European or German vehicle that requires some automotive work? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for car radiator repair in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in German and European vehicles. We also sell refurbished used auto parts!

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.

Recommended Roadside Safety Kit for Volkswagen Drivers

Posted on August 17, 2022 by Autohaus

Roadside emergencies do happen. So, it is important that you be adequately prepared for both the anticipated and the unexpected, whether driving around town or across state lines. As a Volkswagen driver, the need for security runs deep, as you chose VW automakers because they are known to deliver optimal safety, dependability, and performance. A comprehensive roadside emergency kit can help you achieve an even higher level of assurance while driving your trusted Tiguan or beloved Jetta.

Continue reading to review some of the top recommended items to put into your own Volkswagen roadside emergency kit.

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Items to Put in a Volkswagen Roadside Emergency Kit

You can purchase all recommended roadside emergency kit items at any local department store with an automotive section, or through an online retailer. Your total out-of-pocket cost for your VW roadside emergency safety kit will depend on the brands you choose and the scope of function for each item. You can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $200.

Spare Tire

Depending on your trunk space availability, you may or may not be able to add a spare tire into your roadside emergency kit. Instead of a spare, you can choose alternatives like a donut tire, run-flat tires, fix-a-flat products, or even tire patch kits.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a must when it comes to roadside safety. You can make your own custom kit or purchase a prepackaged one. Prepackaged roadside kits come in a wide variety of sizes and selections. Choose one that at least has the basics, like bandages, alcohol pads, gauze, adhesive tape, aspirin, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, and antibiotic ointment. Larger packs might have items like thermometers, blankets, scissors, tweezers, nail clippers, aloe lotion, hand warmers, and more.

Multi-Use Tool

A multi-use tool might also be included in your first-aid kit. It is a multi-functional tool that can be used as a pair of scissors, knife, pliers, wire cutters, and sometimes a wrench and screwdriver. You can purchase this type of product at any local department store with a home improvement section, online retailer, or hardware store.

Road Triangles or Flares

You can choose between roadside flares or reflective triangles. These are used to mark your vehicle’s boundary and protect your spot from roadside collisions. These are especially important during high traffic times, on highways, in inclement weather, and at night.

Phone Charger

Always have a spare phone charger in your car. Take a step further and have a portable phone charger battery in your Volkswagen in case you don’t have an outlet for your charger or the outlet in your car does not work.

Jumper Cables

Jumper cables are not an essential item, but they do come in handy when a car battery dies. Jumper cables are more compact in design these days, so they do not take up as much room as conventional or older model jumper cables.

Water

Have extra bottles of water in your Volkswagen to prevent dehydration. Water has other applications when it comes to roadside emergencies too, like cleaning wounds, side mirrors, or windshields. Keeping water in your car is especially important in the summer season when temperatures are higher.

Blanket

You can go as far as having a designated car blanket. When you are stuck on the side of the road, whether managing your roadside emergency or waiting for assistance to arrive, you might need a blanket to keep warm, especially if it’s the dead of winter and your heat won’t work!

Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your Volkswagen safe on the road. Not sure where to take your luxury German vehicle? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for Volkswagen auto service and repair in Carmel, Indianapolis. We are German-trained mechanics who specialize in European make and model vehicles.

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.