Recommended Pre-Winter Maintenance for European Cars

Posted on November 5, 2020 by Autohaus

Your European or British vehicle puts the “import” in important when it comes to import auto maintenance and service. Without routine maintenance for your import vehicle, you risk damaging several components, minimizing its performance capacity, and its decreasing lifespan. Not only is this a costly negligence, but it is also a dangerous one as well. A poorly maintained import car is a safety hazard to its driver and other drivers on the road. It is also a wallet-drainer.

Import auto maintenance is vitally important for these reasons and more. And if you are like most European car owners, you are passionate about your make and model vehicle and willing to do whatever it takes to keep it in excellent condition. One part of this is pre-winter maintenance. Now that the warm weather is behind us, it is the right time to have your import vehicle serviced before the winter climate and precipitation sets in.

Continue reading to learn tips for pre-winter European car maintenance, and get started before the snow is here!

European Auto Repair and Service – Carmel, Indiana – 317-571-0800

European and German Auto Maintenance

⛮ Filters

Filters are the first place to start. After a summer stint, the filters in your vehicle needs to be cleaned or replaced. This includes air filters, oil filters, and fuel filters. At this stage, you want to also have the PCV valves inspected and serviced to ensure the engine runs smoothly during the winter.

⛮ Motor Oil Changes

Oil changes are always a mandatory necessity every 3,000 miles or so. In the fall, right before the winter, an oil change is imperative for the vehicle’s winter performance and safety. During an oil change, mechanics will also change the oil filter. This is one maintenance requirement that is absolutely necessary.

⛮ Fluid Replacements

With winter comes precipitation, and quite unpredictable precipitation at that. This means you need to make sure your views are never obstructed while driving, especially during a snowstorm. For this reason, be sure to re-fill your windshield wiper fluid to the top, and then keep an extra bottle in the trunk for emergency re-fill needs on the road. Rubber wiper blades are highly recommended, as they are less likely to freeze.

⛮ Car Battery

Now comes automotive battery maintenance. You need to have your car’s battery inspected, serviced, or replaced, depending on the type and its condition. Your battery is responsible for getting the engine started, so without it, you can forget driving anywhere. Read your owners’ manual for information about car battery maintenance and care, so you can better prevent draining it.

Looking for a German Factory Trained Mechanic in Carmel, Indiana?

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for dependable car maintenance and repair in Carmel, Indiana for European cars. Our licensed, German Factory-trained mechanics specialize in European and British cars, and provide a wide range of automotive services and repairs at affordable prices. Call 317-571-0800 to request a free estimate, today.

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Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously

Posted on October 20, 2020 by Autohaus

The pressure of mortgages, credit cards, car payments, and additional obligatory expenses can be overwhelming in today’s economy. So now more than ever, people are looking for ways to save money. One way people are having success at managing their budget is taking good care of their cars. This helps to avoid unexpected costly repairs and replacements. In fact, one of the easiest and most effective method to improve vehicular performance is by implementing regular scheduled oil changes.

European Auto Repair and Service Carmel Indiana — European Auto Repair and Service in Carmel, Indiana 317-571-0800

The Importance of Motor Oil

Regular scheduled maintenance is vital for all cars, trucks, and even motorcycles. Oil changes are one of the most important scheduled car maintenance, and should be completed after a recommended period of time or mileage. A certified mechanic would recommend changing conventional oil every 3,000 miles.

For synthetic oil, the common recommendation would be to change the oil every 5,000 miles. Along with changing the oil, automotive technicians would suggest replacing the oil filter with every change as well. The 3000 and 5000 mile rule has been around for a long time in the automotive service industry; however, modern-day car manufacturers insist that their newer model vehicles can drive nearly 10,000 miles before an oil change is required.

The Purpose of Oil Changes

Changing the oil is a vehicle maintenance necessity for all car owners. Every vehicle contains various metal components that require regular lubrication and emollient. Proper lubrication lets the metal parts move freely and efficiently; allowing the vehicle to drive effortlessly. In fact, engine wear is commonly caused by friction which occurs from lack of lubrication.

As a vehicle drives, the movement of the engine generates particles and fragments that contaminate the oil within it. An accumulation of these harmful particles and contaminants will damage the internal components of an engine, leading to costly repairs. Regular scheduled oil changes are crucial when it comes to maintaining a clean and optimal engine.

Failing to get an oil change can result in a wide range of complications. These complications are problematic and will eventually evolve into larger issues that can potentially cost car owners hundreds and even thousands of dollars. One such complication that commonly results from neglecting regular scheduled oil changes is called engine sludge.

Engine sludge largely implicates a vehicle’s performance and driving capability, such as engine overheating and diminished gas mileage. From this point, it is more lucrative to pay for a quick and inexpensive oil change rather than costly car repairs. Lubrication services are always affordable, quick, and available for all make and model vehicles.

What You Can Do

Remember, regular scheduled oil changes can vastly improve the vehicle’s performance, reduce engine friction, stabilize engine temperature, increase gas mileage, and even lower harmful fuel emissions. For all of this plus a cleaner that are working engine, change the oil in your vehicle as directed by its manufacturer or your local mechanic.

Carmel Auto Repair and Factory Scheduled Maintenance for European Vehicles

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and service in Carmel, Indiana. Our mechanics provide a wide range of automotive services for all make and model European and British vehicles, including factory scheduled maintenance. With more than 30 years of experience, you can trust that your vehicle is in the hands of a truly-qualified professional. We also offer automotive repair coupons too!

3 Popular European Automotive Brands for Car Lovers

Posted on October 7, 2020 by Autohaus

With so many cars and trucks to choose from, where does a buyer begin? Well the best place to start would be determining which brand vehicle you want to purchase and own. For European car enthusiasts, the answer to that question is simple. So as far as European and German automobiles, which brands are the most recommended?

To find out, let’s first take a closer look at some popular European brands, and the distinctive qualities that make them so admirable.

Volkswagen

The Volkswagen line of automobiles is a German brand. They’re best sellers have been the Volkswagen Beetle and the Volkswagen Passat, both of which are on the list of the ten best selling cars of all-time. Their vehicles have won numerous awards for safety and more. They are reliable cars that run smooth and retain great gas mileage. They are recommended for people on the road often, or for families with safety concerns. Volkswagen is a solid choice if safety and dependability are on your list of requirements.

Audi

Audi brand vehicles are phenomenal automobiles with a long history of meticulous designs, careful manufacturing, and irresistible detail. They are known as high-end luxury vehicles for these three reasons, and more. This line of German cars is marked by their slogan of, “Truth in Engineering,” because they are truly engineered as one of the top automotive brands in the world. They are actually a subsidiary of Volkswagen; and the 4 rings that make up the car’s emblem stand for the four companies that came together to launch the Audi brand over 40 years ago. As high-end luxury cars, they are quite desirable and quite pricey.

BMW

BMW make and model automobiles and motorcycles are a German classic. BMW is one of the top three German automakers in the world; alongside Audi and Mercedes Benz. BMW’s are known for their strong residual value, and long lasting performance capabilities. They are well-respected and admired by many German car enthusiasts. They are wonderful for anyone; from a businessman on the go, to a soccer mom of three. This is because of all the wonderful amenities, features, options, and programs included with the purchase of a BMW. For example, they offer safety pans, roadside assistance, warranties, maintenance programs, and more. The possibilities are endless with this classic German brand automobile.

Licensed European Auto Repair and Service Mechanics in Carmel, Indiana

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and service in Carmel, Indiana. Our German factory trained mechanics have more than 30 years of experience specializing in European make and model vehicles. We provide a wide range of automotive repairs and services, including factory scheduled maintenance and auto repair. Call 317-571-0800 for affordable and reputable auto maintenance in Carmel, IN today.

Transmission Repair Solutions for European Car Owners

Posted on August 14, 2020 by Autohaus

A vehicle’s transmission is a mixture of refined hydraulics and computer-operated electronic components that allow power to be sent from the engine to the drive axel, in order to produce movement. A vehicle must have a functioning transmission to run properly, and in most cases, at all. When a German or European car transmission becomes damaged, it is time to look into repair options that best suit the circumstances. The type of damage will determine what options a person has for repair.

Continue reading to learn about various transmission repair options for German and European model vehicles.

Transmission Repair

The first option for vehicle transmission troubles is repair. If a licensed mechanic determines that your transmission is failing due to a certain part or component within your vehicle, it is better to simple repair it, or replace the part with a functioning one. It is important to have a professional diagnose transmission issues, especially for foreign and European vehicles. The transmission can be one of the most complicated repairs to accomplish, which is why experience and industry knowledge are crucial for successful results.

Depending on the amount of damages, transmission repair costs will differ from mechanic to mechanic. Be sure to shop around and read customer reviews to gain better knowledge of the company you wish to hire. It is highly recommended to use a garage that specializes in European car repair. They will have the proper equipment, as well as, an unbeatable dedication that can guarantee quality work.

Transmission Replacement

When a transmission is too far gone for repair, replacement may be the only option. A brand new transmission for German and European cars can run anywhere from $1,800 to $5,000, and sometimes more, depending on the make and model vehicle. Fortunately, for people on a budget, there are perfectly good used transmission for sale all over town. You can find fantastic references for used European transmission from your local mechanic. Buying a refurbished or used transmission can save you up to three thousand dollars or more!

Transmission Maintenance

In the lucky cases that your transmission does not require repair, simply maintenance, your mechanic may recommend fluid changes and other similar services. Just like car engines, transmissions need to remain well-lubricated for proper functioning. Transmission cleaning is crucial as well. This type of routine maintenance should be sought out by a professional Carmel Indiana European auto repair shop for accurate service.

Where to Get Transmission Repair for European Cars in Carmel, IN

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European transmission repair and service in Carmel, Indiana. Our German factory trained mechanics have more than 30 years of experience specializing in European make and model vehicles. We provide a wide range of automotive repairs and services, including factory scheduled maintenance and auto repair. Call 317-571-0800 for affordable and reputable auto maintenance in Carmel, IN today.

The Seven Essential Automotive Fluids Every Vehicle Needs

Posted on July 23, 2020 by Autohaus

When it comes to car care, your vehicle needs more than just a run through the neighborhood car wash every now and then. In adherence to most manufacturer’s instructions, it is important to service your vehicle’s tires, engine, lighting system, battery, and more. But undeniably, one the most vital maintenance practices you simply cannot neglect are your vehicles essential automotive fluids. There are seven automotive fluids that every vehicle needs to operate safely, or at all for that matter.

Continue reading to learn which 7 automotive fluids every vehicle needs, and where to get trusted Indianapolis car maintenance and advice.

➀ Motor Oil

Motor oil is one of the basic, primary fluids that all vehicle’s need to operate safely, or at all. Motor oil is intended to lubricate the moving parts inside a car engine’s crankcase. Without it, an engine will quickly overheat, causing the vehicle to break down. This is because all the moving parts within a car engine creates friction, which produces heat. The lubrication reduces this friction, which in return, prevents overheating. Motor oil protects an engine’s pistons, valves, and all its other moving parts. Have your oil changed every 6 months or 5,000 miles, more or less depending on how much you drive.

➁ Brake Fluid

The ability to stop a vehicle is just as important as the ability to make it go. Just like motor oil, brake fluid is also one of the most important fluids for any vehicle. A car’s brake system uses hydraulic pressure to make a vehicle come to a stop. When a brake pedal is pushed, the brake line system compresses the brake fluid, which then allows the hydraulic force to be transferred to the brake pads and rotors where the friction is made that stops a vehicle. If there is a leak in this system, or no brake fluid at all, a vehicle loses its capacity to stop upon request. Brake fluid must be re-filled on a regular basis. The general rule is to have your vehicle inspected for all fluid changes and replacements, as well as other factory services, every 3 to 6 months depending on how much you drive and the age of the car or truck.

➂ Radiator Fluid (Coolant or Anti-Freeze)

Radiator Fluid, also called coolant or anti-freeze, is extremely important for your car or truck. It is a heat-transfer liquid that prevents a motor from overheating. It does this by cycling through an engine and collecting heat as it flows; and then returns the collected heat to the radiator, which is then filtered and released through the exhaust and muffler. A car is not operational if it overheats. Operating a car without coolant can cause irreversible damages to the engine and other parts of the vehicle, as well as, put passengers and drivers in danger. Adding anti-freeze to your engine is simple and can be done on your own. Simply locate the radiator cap, unscrew, and our in store-bought pre-mixed coolant. Be sure to have your car’s radiator flushed annually by a professional mechanic.

➃ Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is not a solution that requires a car owner to check on their own. Professionals typically tend to these types of fluids when facilitating regular scheduled maintenance tasks. Transmission fluid is rust-colored, or almost a reddish hue. It is used to lubricate and cool the inner components of a vehicle’s transmission, similar to motor oil.

➄ Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is also typically checked and administered by a professional automotive technician during routine factory care. Power steering fluid is pressurized by a small hydraulic pump that is powered by the engine. Its main responsibility is to make turning a car easier. It increases the functionality of the steering mechanism that directs the car tires while driving on the road.

➅ Battery Fluid

Many vehicles today are manufactured with maintenance-free batteries; however, some older models will require a vehicle owner to manually replace the battery fluid on a regular basis. In these type of vehicle batteries, the individual cells need to be filled with the proper type of battery fluid in order for the vehicle to run.

➆ Windshield Wiper Fluid

Although commonly overlooked, a driver could almost not live without windshield wiper fluid! Mud, dirt, water spots, insects, fingerprints, and more can be distracting on a vehicle’s windshield. Windshield wiper fluid is a soapy viscous solution that can be controlled manually by a push of a button inside the car. This button or attachment is generally near the steering wheel. Depending on how often it is used, windshield wiper fluid should be refilled every few months or so.

Auto Repair and Factory Scheduled Maintenance in Carmel, Indiana

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 to request a free estimate, or to schedule an appointment, for European auto repair or factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indiana. Our German factory-trained mechanics provide a wide range of automotive maintenance and repair services for all European make and model vehicles. Best of all, we offer free written estimates and extensive warranties on all our work. Don’t wait another minute to get your needed automotive work done. Call our office today to get started.

Does Your Mercedes Benz Radio Faceplate Liner Look Like it’s Peeling Off?

Posted on June 18, 2020 by Autohaus

Here at Autohaus Dierolf, our German factory-trained mechanics have seen a lot through the decades of hands-on experience we’ve had in the European automotive repair and service industry. With that being said, one of the most common vehicular defects we see happens to be on radio faceplates. Many drivers assume that their radio faceplates come with a “protective liner”, because overtime, the faceplate appears to “peel.” But the reality is, there is no protective liner adhered to the surface of the radio faceplate. The peeling evidence seen by drivers is actually a result of wear and tear.

Here’s the Bad News…

So, what tends to happen is, drivers assume this protective layer peels off all the way with ease. And as they peel it more and more, they make more of a mess; a mess that cannot be restored. You see, automakers, such as Mercedes Benz, do not sell just the radio faceplate alone. If the faceplate becomes defaced due to peeling, the ENTIRE radio unit must be purchased and installed! With the item purchase price, plus labor, the cost to have this work done can be astronomical. This is especially guaranteed if you take it to a dealership.

So, what’s the good news here? The good news is that Autohaus Dierolf sees this kind of radio faceplate damage all the time, and has extensive experience resolving such issues at a better price!

Take this example, below. This is a 2009 Mercedes Benz CLK500 convertible that we recently had in our shop. As you can tell by the BEFORE photos below, it looks like there is a protective film or liner that is peeling off. But the truth is that it is the actual cover peeling off. Not only do we see this happen on Mercedes Benz radio faceplates, we also see this happen to models in the 2003 to 2015 range.

Is YOUR Mercedes Benz Radio Faceplate Peeling?

Bring it to us for an affordable alternative to full radio unit replacement! We offer dealership-level quality at neighborhood prices! Our highly skilled and certified mechanics will remove the radio, extract the old cover, install a new faceplate, and then reassemble your car radio, all around $230 or so. Some invoices may be higher than $230, depending on the amount of labor needed to extract the radio. Take a look at our AFTER pictures, below:

Trust Us for Top-Quality European Auto Service

Here at Autohaus Dierolf, we have the latest technologies and resources to deliver prompt and professional automotive repair service you can trust. In fact, we only use top-of-the-line parts and products, primarily Bosch brand, and even have an in-house used auto parts division in which we have been collecting and adding various European car parts for more than 50 years! We even have an extended specialty inventory of Mercedes Benz used parts. This is a great way to provide our customers with quick and easy fixes.

Get Mercedes Benz Auto Repair Service in Carmel, Indiana

Contact us at 317-571-0800 to request a free estimate, or to schedule an appointment, for Mercedes Benz auto repair service in Carmel, Indiana. Our German factory-trained mechanics provide a wide range of automotive maintenance and repair services for all European make and model vehicles. Best of all, we offer free written estimates and extensive warranties on all our work. Don’t wait another minute to get your needed automotive work done. Call our office today to get started.

Transmission Facts for Cars and Trucks

Posted on August 20, 2012 by Autohaus

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Your vehicle’s transmission is a crucial and fragile component that should be respected and well-maintained regularly. Regular maintenance and care can increase the life span of a transmission, as well as, protect the performance values and durability. This blog discusses important facts related to car and truck transmissions that can help guide you in the direction of proper vehicle repair and maintenance.

Recommended Car Maintenance and Repair

Check the Transmission Fluid

There are many variables that influence how to properly check a car or truck’s transmission fluid. It depends on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as, other more specific factors. For example, in most cases it is instructed to leave the car engine on while checking the transmission fluid; however, if you are driving a Honda, the engine needs to be turned off. In a Dodge, the car needs to be in neutral while applying the emergency brake. With all the different rules and elements that apply to each make and model, it is strongly suggested to have a professional car repair and maintenance shop take a look for you. Most auto repair shops are willing to check car and truck fluids for free, so be sure to take advantage of this when it comes to changing fluids in your ride.

Detecting Transmission Fluid Leaks

Transmission fluid repair technicians advise drivers to have their car or truck looked at professionally because it can be difficult determining where a leak originated from in a car or truck. The technicians will start an inspection to find the source of the leak. Often times, this type of inspection is accompanied with a small fee, usually around $75 or so; however, if you have the leak repaired at the same place it was inspected, the fee is typically waived. When an auto mechanic technician facilitates an inspection to seek out a transmission leak, they will check everything from the cooler lines to the differential cover. Somewhere in between they will typically find the leak and can assess its severity.

Driving with a Transmission Leak

Many people on the road have transmission leaks and don’t even know it. These minor leaks can go un-noticed to an amateur eye. This does not mean that it is safe to drive with a transmission leak or any other car fluid leak. Minor leaks typically do not impose an immediate danger when it comes to driving, but they will most certainly lead to more severe damages to other car parts. Corrosion and deterioration will occur to pumps, seals, and more. These damages are costly and can be avoided by having a transmission fluid leak repaired right away.

Transmission Rebuilds

A common question regarding transmissions is about rebuilds. Rebuilding transmissions is a costly repair that can be avoided prematurely through regular service, maintenance, and care. However, there always comes a time in a car or truck’s life when the transmission needs rebuilding or replacing. A few telltale signs that a transmission is on its last leg are as follows: if the gear is slipping in and out, if the engine is revving high when the vehicle is moving moderately or slow, if it will not go in reverse, and many more. If any of these are happening when driving your truck or car, call a professional auto repair company in your area, and have it inspected right away.

Carmel Auto Repair

European Auto Service Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

For more information on transmission service, repair, maintenance, and inspections, call Autohaus Dierolf in Carmel, IN today. We are licensed and insured European auto repair specialists that have been serving Hoosiers for over 40 years! Call us at 317-571-0800 for free estimates, DIY advice, and guidance on Foreign and European car repair in Carmel, Indiana.

5 Ways to Better Gas Mileage

Posted on June 22, 2012 by Autohaus

It is possible to get more out of every gallon of fuel you pump into your gas tank. By simply implementing regular vehicle maintenance and changing the style of your driving, you can achieve better gas mileage on any type of vehicle you own. These five guidelines are ways to reduce the amount of fuel your vehicle uses, as well as promote a healthier environment.

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5 Ways to Improve Fuel Efficiency:

Check the Tire Pressure

Under-inflated tires are a huge contribution to poor gas mileage. It can increase the fuel consumption as much as 6%. By regularly checking your tire pressure and ensuring they are properly inflated, you can save more fuel with every trip. Tires should be inspected once a month and done so before driving, while the vehicle is still cold. Do not let radial tires fool you; they may look inflated but can actually have low tire pressure. Always check anyway.

Use Less AC

During the hot summer months, your car’s ac unit contributes to almost 10% of increased fuel use. On cooler days, avoid using the car ac unit by rolling down the windows and keeping a cool beverage in your cup holder.

Avoid Jack-Rabbit Driving

Jack-rabbit driving looks similar to a person learning to drive in first gear for the first time. Abrupt starts and hard stops is what we refer to as jack-rabbit driving. Aggressive driving causes your vehicle to use more gas. This can happen when we are stuck in traffic, or in a hurry to get somewhere. Avoid this type of driving and increase your gas mileage.

Obey Speed Limits

Another way to get better gas mileage is to maintain a steady speed when driving. Accelerating and decelerating causes your car to pull more fuel. If you typically drive ten miles over the speed limit on the highway, try going slower to save gas. You will see a difference within a few days. Also, on long stretches of highway, use cruise control. This helps regulate the amount of fuel being consumed per mile.

Drive Less

The most obvious, yet, difficult remedy to poor gas mileage is too much driving. If you can make the commitment to drive less often, it can greatly reduce the amount of fuel you consume per week. Try taking buses, organizing car pools, and walking to closer destinations. Not only can this be good for your fuel budget, it is a great way to improve the environment.

Carmel Auto Service

European Auto Service Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

For more information on improving your gas mileage, call Autohaus Dierolf today at 317-571-0800. We are expert German and European car mechanics located in Carmel, IN. We offer advice, guidance, and free estimates too! Visit our Indiana European Car Repair website for a list of services we offer.